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Chen J, Li H, Luo S, Su D, Xie J, Zang T, Kinoshita T. Estimating changes in inequality of ecosystem services provided by green exposure: From a human health perspective. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 908:168265. [PMID: 37949139 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Ecosystem services provided by green spaces are closely related to human health, strongly supporting sustainable urban and territorial development. Urbanization has not only resulted in the reduction of green spaces but has also created inequalities in exposure. Inequitable green exposure creates disparities in residents' access to the ecosystem services provided by green spaces and can lead to significant health inequities. In this context, we first categorized green exposures into active and passive types based on their characteristics. Second, utilizing the benefit transfer method and Gini coefficient, we estimated the value and equity of ecosystem services offered by these green exposures around residences at the municipality level in Japan from 2000 to 2020, with a focus on human health implications. Finally, we explored the potential relationship between socioeconomics and ecosystem service inequity. Our findings reveal that: 1) ecosystem service value per capita and equity provided by green exposure are significantly different across municipalities; 2) although most municipalities show an upward trend in per capita ecosystem service value around residences, ecosystem service inequity increases significantly; and 3) ecosystem service inequity is related to the socioeconomic factors of municipalities and could be non-linear. The results of this study suggest that the government should adopt indicators related to the ecosystem services provided by green exposure during urban planning. While focusing on per-capita ecosystem services, they should also consider the equitable distribution of ecosystem services to promote sustainable urban health development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Chen
- Graduate School of Horticulture, Chiba University, 648, Matsudo, Matsudo-city, Chiba 271-8510, Japan.
| | - Hongyu Li
- Graduate School of Horticulture, Chiba University, 648, Matsudo, Matsudo-city, Chiba 271-8510, Japan.
| | - Shixian Luo
- Graduate School of Horticulture, Chiba University, 648, Matsudo, Matsudo-city, Chiba 271-8510, Japan; School of Architecture, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 611756, China
| | - Daer Su
- Graduate School of Horticulture, Chiba University, 648, Matsudo, Matsudo-city, Chiba 271-8510, Japan
| | - Jing Xie
- Graduate School of Horticulture, Chiba University, 648, Matsudo, Matsudo-city, Chiba 271-8510, Japan.
| | - Tongguang Zang
- Graduate School of Horticulture, Chiba University, 648, Matsudo, Matsudo-city, Chiba 271-8510, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kinoshita
- Graduate School of Horticulture, Chiba University, 648, Matsudo, Matsudo-city, Chiba 271-8510, Japan.
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Zhang S, Feng X, Xu Z, Li Y, Wang P, Shen J, Xu J, Xu X, Fang X, Wang X. The controlled engineering of surface oxygen defects on Bi 2Zr 2O 7 compounds for catalytic soot combustion by adjusting the preparation methods. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2024; 26:974-984. [PMID: 38088058 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp04104b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
The quantity of surface oxygen vacancies/defects is critical to promote the reactivity of metal oxide catalysts. Therefore, for the controlled engineering of Bi2Zr2O7 with rich surface defects for soot combustion, four different methods have been adopted. Bi2Zr2O7 compounds with a defective fluorite phase but with varied surface vacancy concentrations have been successfully synthesized by various methods. The best catalyst (Bi2Zr2O7-CP) was fabricated by a facile co-precipitation method. Both O2- and O22- were the active surface sites whose number positively correlated to the number of surface oxygen vacancies and determined the activity. Moreover, a sample with more surface vacancies usually had weaker Zr-O bonds, which could be the intrinsic factor to enhance the activity. In addition, a novel and simple method has been developed to accurately titrate the absolute amount of soot reactive oxygen sites and calculate the TOF values. In conclusion, by optimizing the preparation methods, Bi2Zr2O7 catalysts with rich surface defects can be tuned, which may help in designing more applicable soot oxidation catalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shijing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Jiangxi Province for Environment and Energy Catalysis, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, P. R. China.
| | - Xiaohui Feng
- Key Laboratory of Jiangxi Province for Environment and Energy Catalysis, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, P. R. China.
| | - Zekai Xu
- Key Laboratory of Jiangxi Province for Environment and Energy Catalysis, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, P. R. China.
| | - Yuting Li
- Key Laboratory of Jiangxi Province for Environment and Energy Catalysis, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, P. R. China.
| | - Ping Wang
- Key Laboratory of Jiangxi Province for Environment and Energy Catalysis, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, P. R. China.
| | - Jiating Shen
- Key Laboratory of Jiangxi Province for Environment and Energy Catalysis, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, P. R. China.
| | - Junwei Xu
- Key Laboratory of Jiangxi Province for Environment and Energy Catalysis, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, P. R. China.
| | - Xianglan Xu
- Key Laboratory of Jiangxi Province for Environment and Energy Catalysis, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, P. R. China.
| | - Xiuzhong Fang
- Key Laboratory of Jiangxi Province for Environment and Energy Catalysis, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, P. R. China.
| | - Xiang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Jiangxi Province for Environment and Energy Catalysis, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, P. R. China.
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Houweling L, Maitland-Van der Zee AH, Holtjer JCS, Bazdar S, Vermeulen RCH, Downward GS, Bloemsma LD. The effect of the urban exposome on COVID-19 health outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 240:117351. [PMID: 37852458 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The global severity of SARS-CoV-2 illness has been associated with various urban characteristics, including exposure to ambient air pollutants. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to synthesize findings from ecological and non-ecological studies to investigate the impact of multiple urban-related features on a variety of COVID-19 health outcomes. METHODS On December 5, 2022, PubMed was searched to identify all types of observational studies that examined one or more urban exposome characteristics in relation to various COVID-19 health outcomes such as infection severity, the need for hospitalization, ICU admission, COVID pneumonia, and mortality. RESULTS A total of 38 non-ecological and 241 ecological studies were included in this review. Non-ecological studies highlighted the significant effects of population density, urbanization, and exposure to ambient air pollutants, particularly PM2.5. The meta-analyses revealed that a 1 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 was associated with a higher likelihood of COVID-19 hospitalization (pooled OR 1.08 (95% CI:1.02-1.14)) and death (pooled OR 1.06 (95% CI:1.03-1.09)). Ecological studies, in addition to confirming the findings of non-ecological studies, also indicated that higher exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), sulphur dioxide (SO2), and carbon monoxide (CO), as well as lower ambient temperature, humidity, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and less green and blue space exposure, were associated with increased COVID-19 morbidity and mortality. CONCLUSION This systematic review has identified several key vulnerability features related to urban areas in the context of the recent COVID-19 pandemic. The findings underscore the importance of improving policies related to urban exposures and implementing measures to protect individuals from these harmful environmental stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Houweling
- Department of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Dept. of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Anke-Hilse Maitland-Van der Zee
- Dept. of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Judith C S Holtjer
- Department of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Somayeh Bazdar
- Dept. of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Roel C H Vermeulen
- Department of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - George S Downward
- Department of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Lizan D Bloemsma
- Dept. of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Seastedt H, Nadeau K. Factors by which global warming worsens allergic disease. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2023; 131:694-702. [PMID: 37689112 PMCID: PMC10873081 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2023.08.610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
Increased use of fossil fuels has led to global warming with concomitant increases in the severity and frequency of extreme weather events such as wildfires and sand and dust storms. These changes have led to increases in air pollutants such as particulate matter and greenhouse gases. Global warming is also associated with increases in pollen season length and pollen concentration. Particulate matter, greenhouse gases, and pollen synergistically increase the incidence and severity of allergic diseases. Other indirect factors such as droughts, flooding, thunderstorms, heat waves, water pollution, human migration, deforestation, loss of green space, and decreasing biodiversity (including microbial diversity) also affect the incidence and severity of allergic disease. Global warming and extreme weather events are expected to increase in the coming decades, and further increases in allergic diseases are expected, exacerbating the already high health care burden associated with these diseases. There is an urgent need to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change to improve human health. Human health and planetary health are connected and the concept of One Health, which is an integrated, unifying approach to balance and optimize the health of people, animals, and the environment needs to be emphasized. Clinicians are trusted members of the community, and they need to take a strong leadership role in educating patients on climate change and its adverse effects on human health. They also need to advocate for policy changes that decrease the use of fossil fuels and increase biodiversity and green space to enable a healthier and more sustainable future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hana Seastedt
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California
| | - Kari Nadeau
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts.
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Du Z, Ding S, Xiao R, Fang C, Jia R, Chu W. Disinfection by-product precursors introduced by sandstorm events: Composition, formation characteristics and potential risks. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 244:120429. [PMID: 37542764 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Sandstorms, a natural meteorological event, occur repeatedly during the dry season and can accumulate large amounts of natural/anthropogenic pollutants during the deposition process, potentially introducing disinfection by-product (DBP) precursors into surface waters. In this study, the characteristics of sandstorm-derived dissolved organic matter (DOM) and its DBP formation potential were elucidated. Overall, sandstorm-derived DOM mainly consisted of low-molecular-weight, low-aromaticity, high-nitrogen organic matter, with a dissolved organic carbon (DOC) release yield of 14.4 mg-DOC/g. The halogenated DBP formation potential (calculated as total organic halogen) of sandstorm-derived DOM was comparable to that of surface water, while the normalized DBP-associated toxicity was 1.96 times higher. Similar to DOM introduced by other depositional pathways, sandstorm-derived DOM also had higher yields of highly cytotoxic DBPs (haloacetaldehydes [HALs], haloacetonitriles [HANs] and halonitromethanes [HNMs]). The average atmospheric deposition flux for DOM during the sandstorm event (50.4 ± 2.1 kg km-2 day-1) was 6.95 times higher than that of dry deposition, indicating a higher probability of contaminant input. Simultaneously, the estimation revealed that the sandstorm will increase the formation potential of toxicity forcing agents, such as HALs, HANs and HNMs, in surface water by 3.87%, 2.39% and 9.04%, respectively. Considering the high frequency of sandstorm events and the sorption of other organic pollutants by sand and dust, the impact of sandstorms on surface water quality should be of concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenqi Du
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, China; Shandong Province Water Supply and Drainage Monitoring Centre, Jinan 250101, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Shunke Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Rong Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Chao Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Ruibao Jia
- School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, China; Shandong Province Water Supply and Drainage Monitoring Centre, Jinan 250101, China.
| | - Wenhai Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Shanghai 200092, China.
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Kreutz J, Heitmann J, Schäfer AC, Aldudak S, Schieffer B, Schieffer E. Environmental factors and their impact on the COVID-19 pandemic. Herz 2023:10.1007/s00059-023-05178-2. [PMID: 37097475 PMCID: PMC10127158 DOI: 10.1007/s00059-023-05178-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in numerous cases of illness and death worldwide. Research has shown that there are associations between transmission, as well as the severity of SARS-CoV‑2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) infections, and various environmental factors. For example, air pollution with particulate matter is thought to play a crucial role, and both climatic and geographical aspects must be considered. Furthermore, environmental conditions such as industry and urban lifestyle have a significant impact on air quality and thus on health aspects of the population. In this regard, other factors such as chemicals, microplastics, and diet also critically impact health, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted how closely health and the environment are linked. This review discusses the impact of environmental factors on the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Kreutz
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, and Intensive Care Medicine, Philipps University of Marburg, Baldinger Str., 35043, Marburg, Germany.
| | - Juliane Heitmann
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, and Intensive Care Medicine, Philipps University of Marburg, Baldinger Str., 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Ann-Christin Schäfer
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, and Intensive Care Medicine, Philipps University of Marburg, Baldinger Str., 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Sümeya Aldudak
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, and Intensive Care Medicine, Philipps University of Marburg, Baldinger Str., 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Bernhard Schieffer
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, and Intensive Care Medicine, Philipps University of Marburg, Baldinger Str., 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Schieffer
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, and Intensive Care Medicine, Philipps University of Marburg, Baldinger Str., 35043, Marburg, Germany
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Liu T, Duan F, Ma Y, Ma T, Zhang Q, Xu Y, Li F, Huang T, Kimoto T, Zhang Q, He K. Classification and sources of extremely severe sandstorms mixed with haze pollution in Beijing. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 322:121154. [PMID: 36736562 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Air quality has significantly improved in China; however, new challenges emerge when dust weather is combined with haze pollution during spring in northern China. On March 15, 2021, an extremely severe sandstorm occurred in Beijing, with hourly maximum PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations reaching 5267.7 μg m-3 and 963.9 μg m-3, respectively. Continuous sandstorm events usually lead to complicated pollution status in spring. Three pollution types were identified disregarding the time sequence throughout March. The secondary formation type was dominant, with high ratios of PM2.5/PM10 (mean 74%) and PM1/PM2.5 (mean 52%). This suggests that secondary transformations are the primary cause of heavy pollution, even during the dry seasons. Sandstorm type resulted in dramatic PM10 levels, with a noticeable decrease in PM2.5/PM10 levels (27%), although PM2.5 levels remain high. The transitional pollution type was distinguished by an independent increase in PM10 levels, although PM2.5 and PM1 levels differed from the PM10 levels. Throughout March, the sulfur oxidation rate varied considerably, with high levels during most periods (mean 0.52). A strong correlation indicated that relative humidity was the primary variable promoting the formation of secondary sulfate. Sandstorms promote heterogeneous reactions by providing abundant reaction surfaces from mineral particles, therefore aggravating secondary pollution. The sandstorm air mass from the northwest passing through the sand sources of Mongolia carried not only crustal matter but also organic components, such as bioaerosols, resulting in a sharp increase in the organic carbon in PM2.5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Fengkui Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
| | - Yongliang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Tao Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Qinqin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yunzhi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Fan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Kimoto Electric Co., Ltd, 3-1 Funahashi-cho Tennoji-ku, Osaka, 543-0024, Japan
| | - Takashi Kimoto
- Kimoto Electric Co., Ltd, 3-1 Funahashi-cho Tennoji-ku, Osaka, 543-0024, Japan
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Earth System Modeling, Department of Earth System Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Kebin He
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
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Wu WL, Shan CY, Liu J, Zhao JL, Long JY. Analysis of Factors Influencing Air Quality in Different Periods during COVID-19: A Case Study of Tangshan, China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20054199. [PMID: 36901210 PMCID: PMC10002059 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the main factors influencing air quality in Tangshan during COVID-19, covering three different periods: the COVID-19 period, the Level I response period, and the Spring Festival period. Comparative analysis and the difference-in-differences (DID) method were used to explore differences in air quality between different stages of the epidemic and different years. During the COVID-19 period, the air quality index (AQI) and the concentrations of six conventional air pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NO2, CO, and O3-8h) decreased significantly compared to 2017-2019. For the Level I response period, the reduction in AQI caused by COVID-19 control measures were 29.07%, 31.43%, and 20.04% in February, March, and April of 2020, respectively. During the Spring Festival, the concentrations of the six pollutants were significantly higher than those in 2019 and 2021, which may be related to heavy pollution events caused by unfavorable meteorological conditions and regional transport. As for the further improvement in air quality, it is necessary to take strict measures to prevent and control air pollution while paying attention to meteorological factors.
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Podury S, Kwon S, Javed U, Farooqi MS, Li Y, Liu M, Grunig G, Nolan A. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome and Particulate Matter Exposure: A Systematic Review. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:538. [PMID: 36836898 PMCID: PMC9962044 DOI: 10.3390/life13020538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Particulate matter (PM) exposure is responsible for seven million deaths annually and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of respiratory infections such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). Understanding modifiable risk factors of high mortality, resource burdensome C19 and exposure risks such as PM is key to mitigating their devastating effects. This systematic review focuses on the literature available, identifying the spatial and temporal variation in the role of quantified PM exposure in SARS disease outcome and planning our future experimental studies. METHODS The systematic review utilized keywords adhered to the PRISMA guidelines. We included original human research studies in English. RESULTS Initial search yielded N = 906, application of eligibility criteria yielded N = 46. Upon analysis of risk of bias N = 41 demonstrated high risk. Studies found a positive association between elevated PM2.5, PM10 and SARS-related outcomes. A geographic and temporal variation in both PM and C19's role was observed. CONCLUSION C19 is a high mortality and resource intensive disease which devastated the globe. PM exposure is also a global health crisis. Our systematic review focuses on the intersection of this impactful disease-exposure dyad and understanding the role of PM is important in the development of interventions to prevent future spread of viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjiti Podury
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine (NYUGSoM), New York, NY 10016, USA; (S.P.); (S.K.); (U.J.); (M.S.F.)
| | - Sophia Kwon
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine (NYUGSoM), New York, NY 10016, USA; (S.P.); (S.K.); (U.J.); (M.S.F.)
| | - Urooj Javed
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine (NYUGSoM), New York, NY 10016, USA; (S.P.); (S.K.); (U.J.); (M.S.F.)
| | - Muhammad S. Farooqi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine (NYUGSoM), New York, NY 10016, USA; (S.P.); (S.K.); (U.J.); (M.S.F.)
| | - Yiwei Li
- Department of Population Health, Division of Biostatistics, New York University Grossman School of Medicine (NYUGSoM), New York, NY 10016, USA; (Y.L.); (M.L.)
| | - Mengling Liu
- Department of Population Health, Division of Biostatistics, New York University Grossman School of Medicine (NYUGSoM), New York, NY 10016, USA; (Y.L.); (M.L.)
- Department of Medicine, Division of Environmental Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine (NYUGSoM), New York, NY 10016, USA;
| | - Gabriele Grunig
- Department of Medicine, Division of Environmental Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine (NYUGSoM), New York, NY 10016, USA;
| | - Anna Nolan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine (NYUGSoM), New York, NY 10016, USA; (S.P.); (S.K.); (U.J.); (M.S.F.)
- Department of Medicine, Division of Environmental Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine (NYUGSoM), New York, NY 10016, USA;
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Environmental Pollutants PM2.5, PM10, Nitrogen Dioxide (NO 2), and Ozone (O 3) Association with the Incidence of Monkeypox Cases in European Countries. J Trop Med 2023; 2023:9075358. [PMID: 36687338 PMCID: PMC9859703 DOI: 10.1155/2023/9075358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Monkeypox, also known as monkeypox disease, is caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), which is a zoonotic infection. The swift spread of human monkeypox cases has caused an alarming situation worldwide. This novel study aimed to investigate the association of particulate matter air pollutants PM2.5, PM10, Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and Ozone (O3) on the incidence of monkeypox cases from May 1, 2022, to July 15, 2022. Methods The data on air pollutants PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and O3 and monkeypox cases were recorded from the date of occurrence of the first case of monkeypox in the United Kingdom, Spain, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Portugal from May 1, 2022, to July 15, 2022. The daily concentrations of PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and O3 were recorded from the metrological website "Air Quality Index-AQI," and daily human monkeypox cases were recorded from the official website of "Our World in Data." The mean values along with simple, multiple, and Spearman Rho correlations were performed to investigate the relationship and strength of association between the concentrations of air pollutants and cases of monkeypox. Results The environmental pollutants PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and O3 were positively associated with monkeypox cases in the United Kingdom, Spain, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Portugal. The analysis further revealed that for each 10-unit increase in PM2.5, PM10, and NO2, levels, the number of monkeypox cases was significantly augmented by 29.6%, 9.7%, 13%, and 80.6%, respectively. Conclusions Environmental pollutants PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and O3 have been positively linked to the number of daily monkeypox cases in European countries. Environmental pollution is a risk factor for the increasing incidence of monkeypox daily cases. The regional and international authorities must implement policies to curtail air pollution to combat the cases of monkeypox in European countries and worldwide.
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Meo AS, Masood A, Shabbir U, Ali H, Nadeem Z, Meo SA, Alshahrani AN, AlAnazi S, Al-Masri AA, Al-Khlaiwi T. Adverse Effects of Sinopharm COVID-19 Vaccine among Vaccinated Medical Students and Health Care Workers. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11010105. [PMID: 36679950 PMCID: PMC9863525 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11010105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) disease caused a highly problematic situation worldwide. Various vaccines were launched to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to investigate the adverse effects of first and second doses of the Sinopharm vaccine among vaccinated medical and dental students and healthcare workers. A well-established questionnaire was distributed online, and 414 medical and dental students and healthcare workers (HCW) comprising 355 females (85.7%) and 59 males (14.3%) participated; all were vaccinated with two doses of Sinopharm. The most common side effect was pain at the injection site after dose one in 253 respondents (61.3%) and after dose two in 161 respondents (38.9%). Other symptoms included general lethargy in 168 (40.6%), myalgia/body pain in 99 (23.9%), low-grade fever in 93 (22.4%), and headache in 87 (21%) respondents. Common side effects reported after the second dose of the vaccine following pain at the injection site included general lethargy in 21.3% (88), headache in 10.4% (43), myalgia/body pain in 9.9% (41), and low-grade fever in 6.1% (25) of the respondents. In conclusion, common adverse effects of the Sinopharm vaccine were pain at the injection site, general lethargy, myalgia, body pain, low-grade fever, and headache. These adverse effects were mild in intensity for both doses but slightly more frequent and severe for the first dose than the second dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anusha Sultan Meo
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adeeba Masood
- Army Medical College, National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi 46000, Pakistan
| | - Usama Shabbir
- Army Medical College, National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi 46000, Pakistan
| | - Hubba Ali
- Army Medical College, National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi 46000, Pakistan
| | - Zeeshan Nadeem
- Army Medical College, National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi 46000, Pakistan
| | - Sultan Ayoub Meo
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 1146A1, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Saad AlAnazi
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 1146A1, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abeer A Al-Masri
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 1146A1, Saudi Arabia
| | - Thamir Al-Khlaiwi
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 1146A1, Saudi Arabia
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Kyu HH, Vongpradith A, Sirota SB, Novotney A, Troeger CE, Doxey MC, Bender RG, Ledesma JR, Biehl MH, Albertson SB, Frostad JJ, Burkart K, Bennitt FB, Zhao JT, Gardner WM, Hagins H, Bryazka D, Dominguez RMV, Abate SM, Abdelmasseh M, Abdoli A, Abdoli G, Abedi A, Abedi V, Abegaz TM, Abidi H, Aboagye RG, Abolhassani H, Abtew YD, Abubaker Ali H, Abu-Gharbieh E, Abu-Zaid A, Adamu K, Addo IY, Adegboye OA, Adnan M, Adnani QES, Afzal MS, Afzal S, Ahinkorah BO, Ahmad A, Ahmad AR, Ahmad S, Ahmadi A, Ahmadi S, Ahmed H, Ahmed JQ, Ahmed Rashid T, Akbarzadeh-Khiavi M, Al Hamad H, Albano L, Aldeyab MA, Alemu BM, Alene KA, Algammal AM, Alhalaiqa FAN, Alhassan RK, Ali BA, Ali L, Ali MM, Ali SS, Alimohamadi Y, Alipour V, Al-Jumaily A, Aljunid SM, Almustanyir S, Al-Raddadi RM, Al-Rifai RHH, AlRyalat SAS, Alvis-Guzman N, Alvis-Zakzuk NJ, Ameyaw EK, Aminian Dehkordi JJ, Amuasi JH, Amugsi DA, Anbesu EW, Ansar A, Anyasodor AE, Arabloo J, Areda D, Argaw AM, Argaw ZG, Arulappan J, Aruleba RT, Asemahagn MA, Athari SS, Atlaw D, Attia EF, Attia S, Aujayeb A, Awoke T, Ayana TM, Ayanore MA, Azadnajafabad S, Azangou-Khyavy M, Azari S, Azari Jafari A, Badar M, Badiye AD, Baghcheghi N, Bagherieh S, Baig AA, Banach M, Banerjee I, Bardhan M, Barone-Adesi F, Barqawi HJ, Barrow A, Bashiri A, Bassat Q, Batiha AMM, Belachew AB, Belete MA, Belgaumi UI, Bhagavathula AS, Bhardwaj N, Bhardwaj P, Bhatt P, Bhojaraja VS, Bhutta ZA, Bhuyan SS, Bijani A, Bitaraf S, Bodicha BBA, Briko NI, Buonsenso D, Butt MH, Cai J, Camargos P, Cámera LA, Chakraborty PA, Chanie MG, Charan J, Chattu VK, Ching PR, Choi S, Chong YY, Choudhari SG, Chowdhury EK, Christopher DJ, Chu DT, Cobb NL, Cohen AJ, Cruz-Martins N, Dadras O, Dagnaw FT, Dai X, Dandona L, Dandona R, Dao ATM, Debela SA, Demisse B, Demisse FW, Demissie S, Dereje D, Desai HD, Desta AA, Desye B, Dhingra S, Diao N, Diaz D, Digesa LE, Doan LP, Dodangeh M, Dongarwar D, Dorostkar F, dos Santos WM, Dsouza HL, Dubljanin E, Durojaiye OC, Edinur HA, Ehsani-Chimeh E, Eini E, Ekholuenetale M, Ekundayo TC, El Desouky ED, El Sayed I, El Sayed Zaki M, Elhadi M, Elkhapery AMR, Emami A, Engelbert Bain L, Erkhembayar R, Etaee F, Ezati Asar M, Fagbamigbe AF, Falahi S, Fallahzadeh A, Faraj A, Faraon EJA, Fatehizadeh A, Ferrara P, Ferrari AA, Fetensa G, Fischer F, Flavel J, Foroutan M, Gaal PA, Gaidhane AM, Gaihre S, Galehdar N, Garcia-Basteiro AL, Garg T, Gebrehiwot MD, Gebremichael MA, Gela YY, Gemeda BNB, Gessner BD, Getachew M, Getie A, Ghamari SH, Ghasemi Nour M, Ghashghaee A, Gholamrezanezhad A, Gholizadeh A, Ghosh R, Ghozy S, Goleij P, Golitaleb M, Gorini G, Goulart AC, Goyomsa GG, Guadie HA, Gudisa Z, Guled RA, Gupta S, Gupta VB, Gupta VK, Guta A, Habibzadeh P, Haj-Mirzaian A, Halwani R, Hamidi S, Hannan MA, Harorani M, Hasaballah AI, Hasani H, Hassan AM, Hassani S, Hassanian-Moghaddam H, Hassankhani H, Hayat K, Heibati B, Heidari M, Heyi DZ, Hezam K, Holla R, Hong SH, Horita N, Hosseini MS, Hosseinzadeh M, Hostiuc M, Househ M, Hoveidamanesh S, Huang J, Hussein NR, Iavicoli I, Ibitoye SE, Ikuta KS, Ilesanmi OS, Ilic IM, Ilic MD, Immurana M, Ismail NE, Iwagami M, Jaafari J, Jamshidi E, Jang SI, Javadi Mamaghani A, Javaheri T, Javanmardi F, Javidnia J, Jayapal SK, Jayarajah U, Jayaram S, Jema AT, Jeong W, Jonas JB, Joseph N, Joukar F, Jozwiak JJ, K V, Kabir Z, Kacimi SEO, Kadashetti V, Kalankesh LR, Kalhor R, Kamath A, Kamble BD, Kandel H, Kanko TK, Karaye IM, Karch A, Karkhah S, Kassa BG, Katoto PDMC, Kaur H, Kaur RJ, Keikavoosi-Arani L, Keykhaei M, Khader YS, Khajuria H, Khan EA, Khan G, Khan IA, Khan M, Khan MN, Khan MAB, Khan YH, Khatatbeh MM, Khosravifar M, Khubchandani J, Kim MS, Kimokoti RW, Kisa A, Kisa S, Kissoon N, Knibbs LD, Kochhar S, Kompani F, Koohestani HR, Korshunov VA, Kosen S, Koul PA, Koyanagi A, Krishan K, Kuate Defo B, Kumar GA, Kurmi OP, Kuttikkattu A, Lal DK, Lám J, Landires I, Ledda C, Lee SW, Levi M, Lewycka S, Liu G, Liu W, Lodha R, Lorenzovici L, Lotfi M, Loureiro JA, Madadizadeh F, Mahmoodpoor A, Mahmoudi R, Mahmoudimanesh M, Majidpoor J, Makki A, Malakan Rad E, Malik AA, Mallhi TH, Manla Y, Matei CN, Mathioudakis AG, Maude RJ, Mehrabi Nasab E, Melese A, Memish ZA, Mendoza-Cano O, Mentis AFA, Meretoja TJ, Merid MW, Mestrovic T, Micheletti Gomide Nogueira de Sá AC, Mijena GFW, Minh LHN, Mir SA, Mirfakhraie R, Mirmoeeni S, Mirza AZ, Mirza M, Mirza-Aghazadeh-Attari M, Misganaw AS, Misganaw AT, Mohammadi E, Mohammadi M, Mohammed A, Mohammed S, Mohan S, Mohseni M, Moka N, Mokdad AH, Momtazmanesh S, Monasta L, Moniruzzaman M, Montazeri F, Moore CE, Moradi A, Morawska L, Mosser JF, Mostafavi E, Motaghinejad M, Mousavi Isfahani H, Mousavi-Aghdas SA, Mubarik S, Murillo-Zamora E, Mustafa G, Nair S, Nair TS, Najafi H, Naqvi AA, Narasimha Swamy S, Natto ZS, Nayak BP, Nejadghaderi SA, Nguyen HVN, Niazi RK, Nogueira de Sá AT, Nouraei H, Nowroozi A, Nuñez-Samudio V, Nzoputam CI, Nzoputam OJ, Oancea B, Ochir C, Odukoya OO, Okati-Aliabad H, Okekunle AP, Okonji OC, Olagunju AT, Olufadewa II, Omar Bali A, Omer E, Oren E, Ota E, Otstavnov N, Oulhaj A, P A M, Padubidri JR, Pakshir K, Pakzad R, Palicz T, Pandey A, Pant S, Pardhan S, Park EC, Park EK, Pashazadeh Kan F, Paudel R, Pawar S, Peng M, Pereira G, Perna S, Perumalsamy N, Petcu IR, Pigott DM, Piracha ZZ, Podder V, Polibin RV, Postma MJ, Pourasghari H, Pourtaheri N, Qadir MMF, Raad M, Rabiee M, Rabiee N, Raeghi S, Rafiei A, Rahim F, Rahimi M, Rahimi-Movaghar V, Rahman A, Rahman MO, Rahman M, Rahman MA, Rahmani AM, Rahmanian V, Ram P, Ramezanzadeh K, Rana J, Ranasinghe P, Rani U, Rao SJ, Rashedi S, Rashidi MM, Rasul A, Ratan ZA, Rawaf DL, Rawaf S, Rawassizadeh R, Razeghinia MS, Redwan EMM, Reitsma MB, Renzaho AMN, Rezaeian M, Riad A, Rikhtegar R, Rodriguez JAB, Rogowski ELB, Ronfani L, Rudd KE, Saddik B, Sadeghi E, Saeed U, Safary A, Safi SZ, Sahebazzamani M, Sahebkar A, Sakhamuri S, Salehi S, Salman M, Samadi Kafil H, Samy AM, Santric-Milicevic MM, Sao Jose BP, Sarkhosh M, Sathian B, Sawhney M, Saya GK, Seidu AA, Seylani A, Shaheen AA, Shaikh MA, Shaker E, Shamshad H, Sharew MM, Sharhani A, Sharifi A, Sharma P, Sheidaei A, Shenoy SM, Shetty JK, Shiferaw DS, Shigematsu M, Shin JI, Shirzad-Aski H, Shivakumar KM, Shivalli S, Shobeiri P, Simegn W, Simpson CR, Singh H, Singh JA, Singh P, Siwal SS, Skryabin VY, Skryabina AA, Soltani-Zangbar MS, Song S, Song Y, Sood P, Sreeramareddy CT, Steiropoulos P, Suleman M, Tabatabaeizadeh SA, Tahamtan A, Taheri M, Taheri Soodejani M, Taki E, Talaat IM, Tampa M, Tandukar S, Tat NY, Tat VY, Tefera YM, Temesgen G, Temsah MH, Tesfaye A, Tesfaye DG, Tessema B, Thapar R, Ticoalu JHV, Tiyuri A, Tleyjeh II, Togtmol M, Tovani-Palone MR, Tufa DG, Ullah I, Upadhyay E, Valadan Tahbaz S, Valdez PR, Valizadeh R, Vardavas C, Vasankari TJ, Vo B, Vu LG, Wagaye B, Waheed Y, Wang Y, Waris A, West TE, Wickramasinghe ND, Xu X, Yaghoubi S, Yahya GAT, Yahyazadeh Jabbari SH, Yon DK, Yonemoto N, Zaman BA, Zandifar A, Zangiabadian M, Zar HJ, Zare I, Zareshahrabadi Z, Zarrintan A, Zastrozhin MS, Zeng W, Zhang M, Zhang ZJ, Zhong C, Zoladl M, Zumla A, Lim SS, Vos T, Naghavi M, Brauer M, Hay SI, Murray CJL. Age-sex differences in the global burden of lower respiratory infections and risk factors, 1990-2019: results from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2022; 22:1626-1647. [PMID: 35964613 PMCID: PMC9605880 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(22)00510-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The global burden of lower respiratory infections (LRIs) and corresponding risk factors in children older than 5 years and adults has not been studied as comprehensively as it has been in children younger than 5 years. We assessed the burden and trends of LRIs and risk factors across all age groups by sex, for 204 countries and territories. METHODS In this analysis of data for the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2019, we used clinician-diagnosed pneumonia or bronchiolitis as our case definition for LRIs. We included International Classification of Diseases 9th edition codes 079.6, 466-469, 470.0, 480-482.8, 483.0-483.9, 484.1-484.2, 484.6-484.7, and 487-489 and International Classification of Diseases 10th edition codes A48.1, A70, B97.4-B97.6, J09-J15.8, J16-J16.9, J20-J21.9, J91.0, P23.0-P23.4, and U04-U04.9. We used the Cause of Death Ensemble modelling strategy to analyse 23 109 site-years of vital registration data, 825 site-years of sample vital registration data, 1766 site-years of verbal autopsy data, and 681 site-years of mortality surveillance data. We used DisMod-MR 2.1, a Bayesian meta-regression tool, to analyse age-sex-specific incidence and prevalence data identified via systematic reviews of the literature, population-based survey data, and claims and inpatient data. Additionally, we estimated age-sex-specific LRI mortality that is attributable to the independent effects of 14 risk factors. FINDINGS Globally, in 2019, we estimated that there were 257 million (95% uncertainty interval [UI] 240-275) LRI incident episodes in males and 232 million (217-248) in females. In the same year, LRIs accounted for 1·30 million (95% UI 1·18-1·42) male deaths and 1·20 million (1·07-1·33) female deaths. Age-standardised incidence and mortality rates were 1·17 times (95% UI 1·16-1·18) and 1·31 times (95% UI 1·23-1·41) greater in males than in females in 2019. Between 1990 and 2019, LRI incidence and mortality rates declined at different rates across age groups and an increase in LRI episodes and deaths was estimated among all adult age groups, with males aged 70 years and older having the highest increase in LRI episodes (126·0% [95% UI 121·4-131·1]) and deaths (100·0% [83·4-115·9]). During the same period, LRI episodes and deaths in children younger than 15 years were estimated to have decreased, and the greatest decline was observed for LRI deaths in males younger than 5 years (-70·7% [-77·2 to -61·8]). The leading risk factors for LRI mortality varied across age groups and sex. More than half of global LRI deaths in children younger than 5 years were attributable to child wasting (population attributable fraction [PAF] 53·0% [95% UI 37·7-61·8] in males and 56·4% [40·7-65·1] in females), and more than a quarter of LRI deaths among those aged 5-14 years were attributable to household air pollution (PAF 26·0% [95% UI 16·6-35·5] for males and PAF 25·8% [16·3-35·4] for females). PAFs of male LRI deaths attributed to smoking were 20·4% (95% UI 15·4-25·2) in those aged 15-49 years, 30·5% (24·1-36·9) in those aged 50-69 years, and 21·9% (16·8-27·3) in those aged 70 years and older. PAFs of female LRI deaths attributed to household air pollution were 21·1% (95% UI 14·5-27·9) in those aged 15-49 years and 18·2% (12·5-24·5) in those aged 50-69 years. For females aged 70 years and older, the leading risk factor, ambient particulate matter, was responsible for 11·7% (95% UI 8·2-15·8) of LRI deaths. INTERPRETATION The patterns and progress in reducing the burden of LRIs and key risk factors for mortality varied across age groups and sexes. The progress seen in children younger than 5 years was clearly a result of targeted interventions, such as vaccination and reduction of exposure to risk factors. Similar interventions for other age groups could contribute to the achievement of multiple Sustainable Development Goals targets, including promoting wellbeing at all ages and reducing health inequalities. Interventions, including addressing risk factors such as child wasting, smoking, ambient particulate matter pollution, and household air pollution, would prevent deaths and reduce health disparities. FUNDING Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
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Brągoszewska E, Mainka A. Impact of Different Air Pollutants (PM 10, PM 2.5, NO 2, and Bacterial Aerosols) on COVID-19 Cases in Gliwice, Southern Poland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14181. [PMID: 36361060 PMCID: PMC9655007 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Many studies have shown that air pollution may be closely associated with increased morbidity and mortality due to COVID-19. It has been observed that exposure to air pollution leads to reduced immune response, thereby facilitating viral penetration and replication. In our study, we combined information on confirmed COVID-19 daily new cases (DNCs) in one of the most polluted regions in the European Union (EU) with air-quality monitoring data, including meteorological parameters (temperature, relative humidity, atmospheric pressure, wind speed, and direction) and concentrations of particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NO and NO2), ozone (O3), and carbon monoxide (CO). Additionally, the relationship between bacterial aerosol (BA) concentration and COVID-19 spread was analyzed. We confirmed a significant positive correlation (p < 0.05) between NO2 concentrations and numbers of confirmed DNCs and observed positive correlations (p < 0.05) between BA concentrations and DNCs, which may point to coronavirus air transmission by surface deposits on bioaerosol particles. In addition, wind direction information was used to show that the highest numbers of DNCs were associated with the dominant wind directions in the region (southern and southwestern parts).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Brągoszewska
- Department of Technologies and Installations for Waste Management, Faculty of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, 18 Konarskiego St., 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
| | - Anna Mainka
- Department of Air Protection, Silesian University of Technology, 22B Konarskiego St., 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
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Zhang F, Wang Z, Vijver MG, Peijnenburg WJGM. Theoretical investigation on the interactions of microplastics with a SARS-CoV-2 RNA fragment and their potential impacts on viral transport and exposure. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 842:156812. [PMID: 35738381 PMCID: PMC9212631 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic spread across the world and remains difficult to control. Environmental pollution and habitat conditions do facilitate SARS-CoV-2 transmission as well as increase the risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2. The coexistence of microplastics (MPs) with SARS-CoV-2 affects the viral behavior in the indoor and outdoor environment, and it is essential to study the interactions between MPs and SARS-CoV-2 because they both are ubiquitously present in our environment. To determine the mechanisms underlying the impact of MPs on SARS-CoV-2, we used molecular dynamic simulations to investigate the molecular interactions between five MPs and a SARS-CoV-2 RNA fragment at temperatures ranging from 223 to 310 K in vacuum and in water. We furthermore compared the interactions of MPs and SARS-CoV-2 RNA fragment to the performance of SARS-CoV-1 and Hepatitis B virus (HBV) RNA fragments in interacting with the MPs. The interaction affinity between the MPs and the SARS-CoV-2 RNA fragment was found to be greater than the affinity between the MPs and the SARS-CoV-1 or HBV RNA fragments, independent of the environmental media, temperature, and type of MPs. The mechanisms of the interaction between the MPs and the SARS-CoV-2 RNA fragment involved electrostatic and hydrophobic processes, and the interaction affinity was associated with the inherent structural parameters (i.e., molecular volume, polar surface area, and molecular topological index) of the MPs monomers. Although the evidence on the infectious potential of SARS-CoV-2 RNA is not fully understood, humans are exposed to MPs via their lungs, and the strong interaction with the gene materials of SARS-CoV-2 likely affects the exposure of humans to SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Zhang
- Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML), Leiden University, Leiden 2300 RA, the Netherlands
| | - Zhuang Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring and Pollution Control, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing 210044, PR China
| | - Martina G Vijver
- Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML), Leiden University, Leiden 2300 RA, the Netherlands
| | - Willie J G M Peijnenburg
- Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML), Leiden University, Leiden 2300 RA, the Netherlands; Centre for Safety of Substances and Products, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven 3720 BA, the Netherlands.
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Algahtany M, Kumar L, Barclay E. A tested method for assessing and predicting weather-crime associations. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:75013-75030. [PMID: 35641751 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-20440-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Few studies have focused on haze as a weather element and its correlation with crime. In this study, we examined haze as a weather variable to investigate its effects on criminal activity. We used both monthly crime data and weather records to build a regression model that contains a sequential statistical approach to reach the correlation coefficients between the variables. Also, we developed a prediction model to predict crime cases considering three weather factors: temperature, humidity, and haze. We applied this model in two different climate provinces in Saudi Arabia, namely, Riyadh and Makkah. Riyadh is a desert area and observes haze approximately 17 days per month on average, while Makkah is a coastal area observing haze an average of 4 days per month. We found a measurable relationship between each of these three variables and criminal activity. We found that a one-degree increase in temperature was associated with an increase in assault of 0.739, when humidity and haze were held constant. For other independent variables measured against the same crime in Riyadh, a one-degree increase in humidity was associated with a 0.164 increase in assault. An increase in the number of times that a haze phenomenon is observed was associated with an increase of 0.359 in assault cases. Haze had the most effect on theft, drug, and assault crimes in Riyadh compared to the other elements. Temperature and humidity have a significant relationship with crime in Makkah, while haze had no significant influence in that region.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lalit Kumar
- School of Environment and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia
| | - Elaine Barclay
- School of Behavioural, Cognitive and Social Sciences, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia
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Ma X, Xia D, Liu X, Liu H, Fan Y, Chen P, Yu Q. Application of magnetic susceptibility and heavy metal bioaccessibility to assessments of urban sandstorm contamination and health risks: Case studies from Dunhuang and Lanzhou, Northwest China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 830:154801. [PMID: 35341853 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Direct ingestion of sandstorm particles is an important pathway in human exposure to heavy metals. This study investigated the potential health risks of heavy metals transported in sandstorms from Dunhuang to Lanzhou in northwestern China using environmental magnetic parameters and metal bioaccessibilities in simulated gastric and intestinal tracts. The mean magnetic susceptibility of sandstorms in Lanzhou was 366.86 × 10-8 m3/kg, which was more than 5-fold higher than that of sandstorms in Dunhuang, indicating that these sandstorms continuously receive heavy metals with high magnetic mineral content along their pathways. Heavy metal concentrations in sandstorms were higher than background values and those in urban topsoil. Enrichment factors and pollution load indices showed that these heavy metals were derived from both natural and anthropogenic sources, with Cu, Zn, Pb, and Cd being strongly influenced by anthropogenic sources. The bioaccessibilities of Cd, Cu, Zn, and Pb in the sandstorms of Lanzhou were very high, ranging from 22.69% (Cu) to 50.86% (Pb) for gastric phase, and 12.07% (Pb)-22.11% (Cd) for interstinal phase, with the significant reduction in χlf of the physiologically-based extraction testing (PBET) treated sandstorms. The magnetic minerals are significant correlation with the concentrations of heavy metals in sandstorm and effect the release of heavy metals during human digestion process. The overall ecological risk posed by heavy metals contained in sandstorms was relatively low; however, the risk was moderate to high at individual sites. Ingestion posed the highest carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks for both adults and children, with the risk for children being higher.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Ma
- Key Laboratory of Western China's Environmental System (Ministry of Education), College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, 222 South Tianshui Road, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Dunsheng Xia
- Key Laboratory of Western China's Environmental System (Ministry of Education), College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, 222 South Tianshui Road, Lanzhou 730000, China.
| | - Xinying Liu
- Key Laboratory of Western China's Environmental System (Ministry of Education), College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, 222 South Tianshui Road, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Key Laboratory of Western China's Environmental System (Ministry of Education), College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, 222 South Tianshui Road, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Yijiao Fan
- Key Laboratory of Western China's Environmental System (Ministry of Education), College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, 222 South Tianshui Road, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Peiyuan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Western China's Environmental System (Ministry of Education), College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, 222 South Tianshui Road, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Qiao Yu
- Key Laboratory of Western China's Environmental System (Ministry of Education), College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, 222 South Tianshui Road, Lanzhou 730000, China
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17
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Spatio-Temporal Evolution of a Typical Sandstorm Event in an Arid Area of Northwest China in April 2018 Based on Remote Sensing Data. REMOTE SENSING 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/rs14133065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Northwest China is significantly affected by sandstorm disasters. To mitigate the negative impacts of sandstorm events, it is critical to understand the spatio-temporal variations in typical sand and dust storms and their influencing factors. In this work, using ground-based measurements of particulate matter and remote sensing data such as MODIS, OMI, and CALIPSO data, the sources of aerosol pollution and aerosol optical properties of a typical sandstorm event that occurred in Northwest China in 2018 was studied. In addition, the HYSPLIT model was used to explore the air mass trajectories in order to analyze the sand and dust migration process during the sandstorm event. Furthermore, the wind erosion sensitivity of Northwest China was analyzed via single factor analysis and multi-factor superposition of wind field intensity, soil drought index, vegetation coverage, and relief amplitude. Finally, the region of the study area having a high comprehensive wind erosion sensitivity was identified. The results showed that the PM10 concentrations exceeded 400 µg/m3 and the PM2.5/PM10 ratio did not exceeded 0.6 during the sandstorm event, indicating that natural particulate matter was dominant in the ambient air. At the epicenter of pollution, the aerosol optical depth (AOD) at 550 nm was 0.75–1. By combining AOD data with wind speed and direction data from field observation stations, it was found that the sandstorm event in 2018 mainly occurred between 1 April and 3 April, and affected all of Northwest China on 2 April and 3 April. The absorbed aerosol index (AAI) ranged between 2.5 and 4, indicating that the Taklimakan Desert was the main source of sandstorm events in Northwest China. The CALIPSO total attenuated backscatter coefficient at 532 nm indicated that the main component of tropospheric aerosol in this region was distributed in the range of 0–12.5 km. The simulated airflow track showed that it had the same dust source regions as AAI index studies. Moreover, investigation of wind erosion sensitivity in the study areas indicated that the Taklimakan Desert and other desert regions were the main ecologically sensitive areas. These conclusions can provide references and suggestions for the mitigation of damage caused by sandstorm events, in addition to the enhancement of ecological governance.
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18
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A Case Analysis of Dust Weather and Prediction of PM10 Concentration Based on Machine Learning at the Tibetan Plateau. ATMOSPHERE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos13060897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Dust weather is common and disastrous at the Tibetan Plateau. This study selected a typical case of dust weather and analyzed its main development mechanism in the northeast of the Tibetan Plateau, then applied six machine learning methods and a time series regression model to predict PM10 concentration in this area. The results showed that: (1) The 24-h pressure change was positive when the front intruded on the surface; convergence of vector winds with a sudden drop in temperature and humidity led by a trough on 700 hPa; a “two troughs and one ridge” weather situation appeared on 500 hPa while the cold advection behind the trough was strong and a cyclone vorticity was formed in the east of Inner Mongolia. (2) The trajectory of air mass from the Hexi Corridor was the main air mass path influencing Xining City, in this case, since a significant lag in the peak of PM10 concentration appeared in Xining City when compared with Zhangye City. (3) The Multiple Linear Regression was not only timely and effective in predicting the PM10 concentration but had great abilities for anticipating the transition period of particle concentration and the appearance date of maximum values in such dust weather. (4) The MA and MP in the clean period were much lower than that in the dust period; the PM10 of Zhangye City as an eigenvalue played an important role in predicting the PM10 of Xining City even in clean periods. Different from dust periods, the prediction effect of Random Forest Optimized by Bayesian hyperparameter was superior to Multiple Linear Regression in clean periods.
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Meo SA, Alqahtani SA, Aljedaie GM, Binmeather FS, AlRasheed RA, Albarrak RM. Face Masks Use and Its Role in Restraining the Spread of COVID-19 Pandemic in Saudi Arabia: Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Based Cross-Sectional Study. Front Public Health 2022; 9:818520. [PMID: 35141197 PMCID: PMC8818943 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.818520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Face masks (FM) play a role in limiting the spread of viral infections; despite this, their role is influenced by the population's adherence to wearing the FM. However, the impact on the effectiveness of the FM is variable in various communities. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practices toward FM use during COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia. This observational “cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted in the Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.” The data was collected using an online questionnaire survey from September 8–21, 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The questionnaire was distributed via social media platforms to assess knowledge, attitude, and practices using single choice questions and a five-point Likert scale. Among 1,356, respondents' the rate was 678 (50%), 207 (30.5%) were males and 471 (69.5%) females. Among the participants, Saudi citizens were (649; 95.7%), with University education (502; 74%) and were mostly (368; 54.3%) between 16 and 24 years of age. The participants (384; 56.6%, p < 0.001) had good knowledge about face masks, and more than half of the respondents, 531 (78.3%) (p < 0.001), showed a positive attitude. Most of the respondents (477, 70.2%) believed that everyone could use the face mask to minimize the spread of the disease; however (111; 16.4%) reported that they would not wear a face mask if the government did not recommend wearing it in public places during the COVID-19 pandemic. Saudi citizens have above-average knowledge and optimistic attitudes toward using face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. The community is convinced about the face masks and believes that face masks play a predominant role in limiting the spread of SARS-CoV-2.
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20
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Al-khlaiwi T, Meo SA, Almousa HA, Almebki AA, Albawardy MK, Alshurafa HH, Althunayan MA, Alsayyari MS. National COVID-19 Vaccine Program and Parent's Perception to Vaccinate Their Children: A Cross-Sectional Study. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:168. [PMID: 35214627 PMCID: PMC8875151 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10020168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccinating children against COVID-19 is an essential public health strategy in order to reach herd immunity and prevent illness among children and adults. Parents are facing tremendous stress in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic and the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccination program for children. In this study, we aimed to investigate parents' perceptions and acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine for their children in Saudi Arabia. A well-designed, pre-validated, Google questionnaire was distributed to parents through social media websites. The selection of the participants was based on the simple random sample technique. The study sample size was 1304 participants, with 342 males (26.2%), and 962 females (73.8%). The personal information, perception about COVID-19, and their children's vaccination status were obtained. Among the participants, 602 (46.1%) were willing to get the COVID-19 vaccination for their children, whereas 382 (29.3%) were hesitant to inoculate their children for COVID-19 and 320 (24.4%) were unsure. Age (p = 0.004), gender (p = 0.001), occupation (0.004), income (p = 0.030), and vaccination status (p = 0.001) had an influence on the parents' acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination of their children. On the other hand, education level, number of children, and having been previously infected with COVID-19 had no statistically significant effect on the parent acceptance. The correlation of parents' knowledge about COVID-19 and their agreement to the vaccination of their children was statistically significant, along with gender (males were more knowledgeable, with p < 0.001), occupation, income (higher income showed a statistical difference, with p < 0.001), and vaccination status (p < 0.001). There was a decrease in parents' acceptance toward the COVID-19 children vaccine in Saudi Arabia, which requires more attention and focus from health providers to eliminate fear and anxiety among the parents through additional educational programs and events to decrease the resistance toward the vaccination of children. More emphasis is required to increase the awareness of parents and convey the importance of the vaccine for children. In addition, more studies are needed to ensure the vaccine's safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thamir Al-khlaiwi
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Sultan Ayoub Meo
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Hamad Abdulaziz Almousa
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia; (H.A.A.); (A.A.A.); (M.K.A.); (H.H.A.); (M.A.A.); (M.S.A.)
| | - Abdulrahman Ahmed Almebki
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia; (H.A.A.); (A.A.A.); (M.K.A.); (H.H.A.); (M.A.A.); (M.S.A.)
| | - Mansour Khalid Albawardy
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia; (H.A.A.); (A.A.A.); (M.K.A.); (H.H.A.); (M.A.A.); (M.S.A.)
| | - Hassan Haider Alshurafa
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia; (H.A.A.); (A.A.A.); (M.K.A.); (H.H.A.); (M.A.A.); (M.S.A.)
| | - Meshal Abdulaziz Althunayan
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia; (H.A.A.); (A.A.A.); (M.K.A.); (H.H.A.); (M.A.A.); (M.S.A.)
| | - Mohammed Sulaiman Alsayyari
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia; (H.A.A.); (A.A.A.); (M.K.A.); (H.H.A.); (M.A.A.); (M.S.A.)
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21
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Meo SA, Ahmed Alqahtani S, Saad Binmeather F, Abdulrhman AlRasheed R, Mohammed Aljedaie G, Mohammed Albarrak R. Effect of environmental pollutants PM2.5, CO, O 3 and NO 2, on the incidence and mortality of SARS-COV-2 in largest metropolitan cities, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata, India. JOURNAL OF KING SAUD UNIVERSITY. SCIENCE 2022; 34:101687. [PMID: 34744393 PMCID: PMC8564952 DOI: 10.1016/j.jksus.2021.101687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has developed a challenging situation worldwide. In India, the SARS-CoV-2 cases and deaths have markedly increased. This study aims to evaluate the impact of environmental pollutants "particulate matter (PM 2.5 μm), carbon monoxide (CO), Ozone (O3), and Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) on daily cases and deaths due to SARS-CoV-2 infection" in Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, India. METHODS The day-to-day air pollutants PM2.5, CO, O3, and NO2 were recorded from the metrological web "Real-time Air Quality Index (AQI)." SARS-COV-2 everyday cases and deaths were obtained from the "Coronavirus outbreak in India Web". The PM 2.5, CO, O3, NO2, and daily cases, deaths were documented for more than one year, from March 2, 2020, to March 15, 2021. RESULTS Environmental pollutants CO, O3, and NO2, were positively related to SARS-COV-2 cases and deaths. The findings further described that for each one-unit increase in CO, O3, and NO2 levels, the number of cases was significantly augmented by 0.77%, 0.45%, and 4.33%. CONCLUSIONS Environmental pollution is a risk factor to SARS-CoV-2 daily cases and deaths. The regional and international authorities must implement the policies to reduce air pollution and the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings can inform health policymakers' verdicts about battling the COVID-19 pandemic in India and globally by minimizing environmental pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sultan Ayoub Meo
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sara Ahmed Alqahtani
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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22
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Ogaji FM, Numbere AO, Obafemi A, Ogaji DS. Concentration of noxious gases inside and outside residential apartments across different settlements in Port Harcourt metropolis, Nigeria. TOXICOLOGY RESEARCH AND APPLICATION 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/23978473221144682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The proliferation of harmful gases is a major global problem caused by anthropogenic activities. This study hypothesized that the emission of noxious gases varies seasonally in indoor and outdoor environments. Air samples were collected from 40 georeferenced residential areas ( N = 40) in Port Harcourt using Aeroqual 500 monitor to measure six gases: CH4, CO, NH4, NO2, O3, and SO2. Samples were collected at different times, locations, and seasons. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicates a significant difference in concentration between gases, times, and locations at p < 0.001. But the interaction effect shows that times and seasons significantly affect noxious gas concentration compared to location. In general, the concentration of CO was the highest, while that of O3 was the lowest. The order of concentration is CO > SO2 > NO2 > CH4 > NH4 > O3. The concentrations of NO2 and SO2 were higher than the WHO limit, while CO, CH4, NH, and O3 were below the WHO limit. Furthermore, CO concentration was highest in the morning, while NO2 and SO2 concentrations were highest in the evening. For seasons, the CH4, NH4, NO2, and SO2 were higher during the dry season, while CO concentration was higher during the wet season. Pollutant levels should be regularly monitored to help provide exposure advisory to city dwellers on the impact of atmospheric pollution on their health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Folake M Ogaji
- Institute of Natural Resources, Environment and Sustainable Development, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Nigeria
| | - Aroloye O Numbere
- Department of Animal and Environmental Biology, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Nigeria
| | - Andrew Obafemi
- Institute of Natural Resources, Environment and Sustainable Development, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Nigeria
| | - Daprim S Ogaji
- African Centre of Excellence for Public Health and Toxicological Research (ACE-PUTOR),University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Nigeria
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23
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Marquès M, Domingo JL. Positive association between outdoor air pollution and the incidence and severity of COVID-19. A review of the recent scientific evidences. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 203:111930. [PMID: 34425111 PMCID: PMC8378989 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
In June 2020, we published a review focused on assessing the influence of various air pollutants on the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, and the severity of COVID-19 in patients infected by the coronavirus. The results of most of those reviewed studies suggested that chronic exposure to certain air pollutants might lead to more severe and lethal forms of COVID-19, as well as delays/complications in the recovery of the patients. Since then, a notable number of studies on this topic have been published, including also various reviews. Given the importance of this issue, we have updated the information published since our previous review. Taking together the previous results and those of most investigations now reviewed, we have concluded that there is a significant association between chronic exposure to various outdoor air pollutants: PM2.5, PM10, O3, NO2, SO2 and CO, and the incidence/risk of COVID-19 cases, as well as the severity/mortality of the disease. Unfortunately, studies on the potential influence of other important air pollutants such as VOCs, dioxins and furans, or metals, are not available in the scientific literature. In relation to the influence of outdoor air pollutants on the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, although the scientific evidence is much more limited, some studies point to PM2.5 and PM10 as potential airborne transmitters of the virus. Anyhow, it is clear that environmental air pollution plays an important negative role in COVID-19, increasing its incidence and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Montse Marquès
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, School of Medicine, Sant Llorens 21, 43201, Reus, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - José L Domingo
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, School of Medicine, Sant Llorens 21, 43201, Reus, Catalonia, Spain
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Meo SA, Almutairi FJ, Abukhalaf AA, Usmani AM. Effect of Green Space Environment on Air Pollutants PM2.5, PM10, CO, O 3, and Incidence and Mortality of SARS-CoV-2 in Highly Green and Less-Green Countries. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182413151. [PMID: 34948761 PMCID: PMC8700925 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide, over half of the global population is living in urban areas. The metropolitan areas are highly populated and environmentally non-green regions on the planet. In green space regions, plants, grass, and green vegetation prevent soil erosion, absorb air pollutants, provide fresh and clean air, and minimize the burden of diseases. Presently, the entire world is facing a turmoil situation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This study investigates the effect of the green space environment on air pollutants particulate matter PM2.5, PM10, carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O3), incidence and mortality of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in environmentally highly green and less-green countries. We randomly selected 17 countries based on the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) data. The 60% of the EPI score is based on seven categories: "biodiversity and habitat, ecosystem, fisheries, climate change, pollution emissions, agriculture, and water resources". However, 40% of the score is based on four categories: "air quality, sanitation and drinking water, heavy metals, and waste management". The air pollutants and SARS-CoV-2 cases and deaths were recorded from 25 January 2020, to 11 July 2021. The air pollutants "PM2.5, PM10, CO, and O3" were recorded from the metrological websites, Air Quality Index-AQI, 2021. The COVID-19 daily cases and deaths were obtained from the World Health Organization. The result reveals that air pollutants mean values for PM2.5 110.73 ± 1.09 vs. 31.35 ± 0.29; PM10 80.43 ± 1.11 vs. 17.78 ± 0.15; CO 7.92 ± 0.14 vs. 2.35 ± 0.03 were significantly decreased (p < 0.0001) in environmentally highly green space countries compared to less-green countries. Moreover, SARS-CoV-2 cases 15,713.61 ± 702.42 vs. 3445.59 ± 108.09; and deaths 297.56 ± 11.27 vs. 72.54 ± 2.61 were also significantly decreased in highly green countries compared to less-green countries. The green environment positively impacts human wellbeing. The policymakers must implement policies to keep the living areas, surroundings, towns, and cities clean and green to minimize air pollution and combat the present pandemic of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sultan Ayoub Meo
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia; (F.J.A.); (A.A.A.)
- Correspondence: or
| | - Faris Jamal Almutairi
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia; (F.J.A.); (A.A.A.)
| | - Abdulelah Adnan Abukhalaf
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia; (F.J.A.); (A.A.A.)
| | - Adnan Mahmood Usmani
- Diabetic Unit, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia;
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25
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Effect of Environmental Pollutants PM2.5, CO, NO 2, and O 3 on the Incidence and Mortality of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Five Regions of the USA. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18157810. [PMID: 34360104 PMCID: PMC8345586 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18157810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In recent decades, environmental pollution has become a significant international public problem in developing and developed nations. Various regions of the USA are experiencing illnesses related to environmental pollution. This study aims to investigate the association of four environmental pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon monoxide (CO), Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and Ozone (O3), with daily cases and deaths resulting from SARS-CoV-2 infection in five regions of the USA, Los Angeles, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, and Florida. The daily basis concentrations of PM2.5, CO, NO2, and O3 were documented from two metrological websites. Data were obtained from the date of the appearance of the first case of (SARS-CoV-2) in the five regions of the USA from 13 March to 31 December 2020. Regionally (Los Angeles, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, and Florida), the number of cases and deaths increased significantly along with increasing levels of PM2.5, CO, NO2 and O3 (p < 0.05), respectively. The Poisson regression results further depicted that, for each 1 unit increase in PM2.5, CO, NO2 and O3 levels, the number of SARS-CoV-2 infections significantly increased by 0.1%, 14.8%, 1.1%, and 0.1%, respectively; for each 1 unit increase in CO, NO2, and O3 levels, the number of deaths significantly increased by 4.2%, 3.4%, and 1.5%, respectively. These empirical estimates demonstrate an association between the environmental pollutants PM2.5, CO, NO2, and O3 and SARS-CoV-2 infections, showing that they contribute to the incidence of daily cases and daily deaths in the five different regions of the USA. These findings can inform health policy decisions about combatting the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak in these USA regions and internationally by supporting a reduction in environmental pollution.
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