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Caron-Beaudoin É, Akpo H, Doyle-Waters MM, Ronald LA, Friesen M, Takaro T, Leven K, Meyer U, McGregor MJ. The human health effects of unconventional oil and gas (UOG) chemical exposures: a scoping review of the toxicological literature. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2024; 0:reveh-2024-0076. [PMID: 38985132 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2024-0076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Many chemicals associated with unconventional oil and natural gas (UOG) are known toxicants, leading to health concerns about the effects of UOG. Our objective was to conduct a scoping review of the toxicological literature to assess the effects of UOG chemical exposures in models relevant to human health. We searched databases for primary research studies published in English or French between January 2000 and June 2023 on UOG-related toxicology studies. Two reviewers independently screened abstracts and full texts to determine inclusion. Seventeen studies met our study inclusion criteria. Nine studies used solely in vitro models, while six conducted their investigation solely in animal models. Two studies incorporated both types of models. Most studies used real water samples impacted by UOG or lab-made mixtures of UOG chemicals to expose their models. Most in vitro models used human cells in monocultures, while all animal studies were conducted in rodents. All studies detected significant deleterious effects associated with exposure to UOG chemicals or samples, including endocrine disruption, carcinogenicity, behavioral changes and metabolic alterations. Given the plausibility of causal relationships between UOG chemicals and adverse health outcomes highlighted in this review, future risk assessment studies should focus on measuring exposure to UOG chemicals in human populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Élyse Caron-Beaudoin
- Department of Health and Society, 33530 University of Toronto Scarborough , Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, 33530 University of Toronto Scarborough , Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hélène Akpo
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Université de Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mary M Doyle-Waters
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lisa A Ronald
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Michael Friesen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Tim Takaro
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Ulrike Meyer
- Department of Family Practice, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Margaret J McGregor
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Family Practice, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
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Claeson AS, Edvardsson B, Liljelind I. Stress and Sleep in Relation to Severity of Building Related Symptoms. J Occup Environ Med 2023; 65:541-545. [PMID: 36952319 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study investigates different aspects of stress and sleep in medically examined individuals with varying severity of building-related symptoms (BRS). METHODS Three questionnaires were used to assess acute and long-term stress and sleep (Perceived Stress Scale; Shirom Melamed Burnout Questionnaire, and Karolinska Sleep Questionnaire). RESULTS Individuals with BRS, regardless of severity, did not differ in level of perceived stress (indicator of short-term stress). The indicators of long-term stress differed between the groups where an increased severity was associated with higher levels of burnout and sleep problems. CONCLUSIONS The study suggests an association between symptom severity and measures of long-term stress and sleep quality. This has implications for the treatment of persons affected by BRS, because not only the environment needs to be treated, but also the concurrent signs of distress, such as burnout or sleep problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Sara Claeson
- From the Department of Psychology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden (A.C); and Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden (B.E., I.L.)
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Molot J, Sears M, Anisman H. Multiple Chemical Sensitivity: It's time to catch up to the science. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 151:105227. [PMID: 37172924 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a complex medical condition associated with low dose chemical exposures. MCS is characterized by diverse features and common comorbidities, including fibromyalgia, cough hypersensitivity, asthma, and migraine, and stress/anxiety, with which the syndrome shares numerous neurobiological processes and altered functioning within diverse brain regions. Predictive factors linked to MCS comprise genetic influences, gene-environment interactions, oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, cell dysfunction, and psychosocial influences. The development of MCS may be attributed to the sensitization of transient receptor potential (TRP) receptors, notably TRPV1 and TRPA1. Capsaicin inhalation challenge studies demonstrated that TRPV1 sensitization is manifested in MCS, and functional brain imaging studies revealed that TRPV1 and TRPA1 agonists promote brain-region specific neuronal variations. Unfortunately, MCS has often been inappropriately viewed as stemming exclusively from psychological disturbances, which has fostered patients being stigmatized and ostracized, and often being denied accommodation for their disability. Evidence-based education is essential to provide appropriate support and advocacy. Greater recognition of receptor-mediated biological mechanisms should be incorporated in laws, and regulation of environmental exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Molot
- Family Medicine, University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine, Ottawa ON Canada; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa Canada.
| | - Margaret Sears
- Family Medicine, University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine, Ottawa ON Canada; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa Canada.
| | - Hymie Anisman
- Family Medicine, University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine, Ottawa ON Canada; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa Canada.
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Molot J, Sears M, Marshall LM, Bray RI. Neurological susceptibility to environmental exposures: pathophysiological mechanisms in neurodegeneration and multiple chemical sensitivity. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2022; 37:509-530. [PMID: 34529912 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2021-0043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The World Health Organization lists air pollution as one of the top five risks for developing chronic non-communicable disease, joining tobacco use, harmful use of alcohol, unhealthy diets and physical inactivity. This review focuses on how host defense mechanisms against adverse airborne exposures relate to the probable interacting and overlapping pathophysiological features of neurodegeneration and multiple chemical sensitivity. Significant long-term airborne exposures can contribute to oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, transient receptor subfamily vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) and subfamily ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) upregulation and sensitization, with impacts on olfactory and trigeminal nerve function, and eventual loss of brain mass. The potential for neurologic dysfunction, including decreased cognition, chronic pain and central sensitization related to airborne contaminants, can be magnified by genetic polymorphisms that result in less effective detoxification. Onset of neurodegenerative disorders is subtle, with early loss of brain mass and loss of sense of smell. Onset of MCS may be gradual following long-term low dose airborne exposures, or acute following a recognizable exposure. Upregulation of chemosensitive TRPV1 and TRPA1 polymodal receptors has been observed in patients with neurodegeneration, and chemically sensitive individuals with asthma, migraine and MCS. In people with chemical sensitivity, these receptors are also sensitized, which is defined as a reduction in the threshold and an increase in the magnitude of a response to noxious stimulation. There is likely damage to the olfactory system in neurodegeneration and trigeminal nerve hypersensitivity in MCS, with different effects on olfactory processing. The associations of low vitamin D levels and protein kinase activity seen in neurodegeneration have not been studied in MCS. Table 2 presents a summary of neurodegeneration and MCS, comparing 16 distinctive genetic, pathophysiological and clinical features associated with air pollution exposures. There is significant overlap, suggesting potential comorbidity. Canadian Health Measures Survey data indicates an overlap between neurodegeneration and MCS (p < 0.05) that suggests comorbidity, but the extent of increased susceptibility to the other condition is not established. Nevertheless, the pathways to the development of these conditions likely involve TRPV1 and TRPA1 receptors, and so it is hypothesized that manifestation of neurodegeneration and/or MCS and possibly why there is divergence may be influenced by polymorphisms of these receptors, among other factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Molot
- Family Medicine, University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine, North York, ON, Canada
| | | | | | - Riina I Bray
- Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Claeson AS, Sommar J, Liljelind I. Symptoms and oxylipins in plasma before and after exposure to rooms in which individuals have both experienced and not experienced building-related symptoms - an exploratory study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2022; 32:2756-2766. [PMID: 34666571 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2021.1988908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate if there are differences in symptom ratings and plasma concentrations of oxylipins as a measure of acute inflammation between individuals with building-related symptoms (BRS) and referents during exposure to rooms where people experienced BRS and rooms where they did not experience BRS. Medically examined individuals with BRS and healthy, age and sex matched referents working in the same building were exposed for 60 min. Ratings of symptoms and collection of blood to measure oxylipins in plasma were performed before and after each exposure. Individuals with BRS reported more symptoms (mostly mucosal) than the referents in the problem rooms and there was a tendency towards a difference between the groups in concentration of metabolites from the cyclooxygenase pathway (COX). The mean reported intensity of symptoms among all participants was also found to be positively correlated with both COX and lipoxygenase (LOX-15) oxylipins in problem rooms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Johan Sommar
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Ingrid Liljelind
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Low Level Carbon Dioxide Indoors—A Pollution Indicator or a Pollutant? A Health-Based Perspective. ENVIRONMENTS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/environments8110125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
With modern populations in developed countries spending approximately 90% of their time indoors, and with carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations inside being able to accumulate to much greater concentrations than outdoors, it is important to identify the health effects associated with the exposure to low-level CO2 concentrations (<5000 ppm) typically seen in indoor environments in buildings (non-industrial environments). Although other reviews have summarised the effects of CO2 exposure on health, none have considered the individual study designs of investigations and factored that into the level of confidence with which CO2 and health effects can be associated, nor commented on how the reported health effects of exposure correspond to existing guideline concentrations. This investigation aimed to (a) evaluate the reported health effects and physiological responses associated with exposure to less than 5000 parts per million (ppm) of CO2 and (b) to assess the CO2 guideline and limit concentrations in the context of (a). Of the 51 human investigations assessed, many did not account for confounding factors, the prior health of participants or cross-over effects. Although there is some evidence linking CO2 exposures with health outcomes, such as reductions in cognitive performance or sick building syndrome (SBS) symptoms, much of the evidence is conflicting. Therefore, given the shortcomings in study designs and conflicting results, it is difficult to say with confidence whether low-level CO2 exposures indoors can be linked to health outcomes. To improve the epidemiological value of future investigations linking CO2 with health, studies should aim to control or measure confounding variables, collect comprehensive accounts of participants’ prior health and avoid cross-over effects. Although it is difficult to link CO2 itself with health effects at exposures less than 5000 ppm, the existing guideline concentrations (usually reported for 8 h, for schools and offices), which suggest that CO2 levels <1000 ppm represent good indoor air quality and <1500 ppm are acceptable for the general population, appear consistent with the current research.
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Impact of Air Pollution and Weather on Dry Eye. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9113740. [PMID: 33233863 PMCID: PMC7699870 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9113740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Air pollution has broad effects on human health involving many organ systems. The ocular surface is an excellent model with which to study the effects of air pollution on human health as it is in constant contact with the environment, and it is directly accessible, facilitating disease monitoring. Effects of air pollutants on the ocular surface typically manifest as dry eye (DE) symptoms and signs. In this review, we break down air pollution into particulate matter (organic and inorganic) and gaseous compounds and summarize the literature regarding effects of various exposures on DE. Additionally, we examine the effects of weather (relative humidity, temperature) on DE symptoms and signs. To do so, we conducted a PubMed search using key terms to summarize the existing literature on the effects of air pollution and weather on DE. While we tried to focus on the effect of specific exposures on specific aspects of DE, environmental conditions are often studied concomitantly, and thus, there are unavoidable interactions between our variables of interest. Overall, we found that air pollution and weather conditions have differential adverse effects on DE symptoms and signs. We discuss these findings and potential mitigation strategies, such as air purifiers, air humidifiers, and plants, that may be instituted as treatments at an individual level to address environmental contributors to DE.
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Claeson AS, Gouveia-Figueira S, Stenlund H, Johansson AI. A standardized protocol for comparable analysis of GSH/GSSG by UHPLC-ESI-MSMS for human plasma. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2019; 1104:67-72. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2018.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Kwon JW, Park HW, Kim WJ, Kim MG, Lee SJ. Exposure to volatile organic compounds and airway inflammation. Environ Health 2018; 17:65. [PMID: 30086760 PMCID: PMC6081941 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-018-0410-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in ordinary life is suspected to be related to oxidative stress and decreased lung function. This study evaluated whether exposure to ambient VOCs in indoor air affects airway inflammation. METHODS Thirty-four subjects from the hospital that had moved to a new building were enrolled. Symptoms of sick building syndrome, pulmonary function tests, and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) were evaluated, and random urine samples were collected 1 week before and after the move. Urine samples were analyzed for VOC metabolites, oxidative stress biomarkers, and urinary leukotriene E4 (uLTE4) levels. RESULTS The level of indoor VOCs in the new building was higher than that in the old building. Symptoms of eye dryness and eye irritation, as well as the level of a xylene metabolite (o-methylhippuric acid) increased after moving into the new building (p = 0.012, p = 0.008, and p < 0.0001, respectively). For the inflammatory markers, FeNO decreased (p = 0.012 and p = 0.04, respectively) and the uLTE4 level increased (p = 0.005) after the move. CONCLUSION Exposure to a higher level of VOCs in everyday life could affect airway inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae-Woo Kwon
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Kangwon National University Hospital, Chuncheon, South Korea.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangwon National University College of Medicine, Baengnyeong-ro 256, 200-722 Chuncheon-Si, Gangwon-Do, Chuncheon, South Korea.
- Environmental Health Center, Kangwon National University Hospital, Chuncheon, South Korea.
| | - Hee-Won Park
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Kangwon National University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Woo Jin Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangwon National University College of Medicine, Baengnyeong-ro 256, 200-722 Chuncheon-Si, Gangwon-Do, Chuncheon, South Korea
- Environmental Health Center, Kangwon National University Hospital, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Man-Goo Kim
- Department of Environmental Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Seung-Joon Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangwon National University College of Medicine, Baengnyeong-ro 256, 200-722 Chuncheon-Si, Gangwon-Do, Chuncheon, South Korea
- Environmental Health Center, Kangwon National University Hospital, Chuncheon, South Korea
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Carrer P, Wolkoff P. Assessment of Indoor Air Quality Problems in Office-Like Environments: Role of Occupational Health Services. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15040741. [PMID: 29649167 PMCID: PMC5923783 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15040741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Revised: 03/31/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
There is an increasing concern about indoor air quality (IAQ) and its impact on health, comfort, and work-performance in office-like environments and their workers, which account for most of the labor force. The Scientific Committee on Indoor Air Quality and Health of the ICOH (Int. Comm. Occup. Health) has discussed the assessment and management of IAQ problems and proposed a stepwise approach to be conducted by a multidisciplinary team. It is recommended to integrate the building assessment, inspection by walk-through of the office workplace, questionnaire survey, and environmental measurements, in that order. The survey should cover perceived IAQ, symptoms, and psychosocial working aspects. The outcome can be used for mapping the IAQ and to prioritize the order in which problems should be dealt with. Individual health surveillance in relation to IAQ is proposed only when periodical health surveillance is already performed for other risks (e.g., video display units) or when specific clinical examination of workers is required due to the occurrence of diseases that may be linked to IAQ (e.g., Legionnaire’s disease), recurrent inflammation, infections of eyes, respiratory airway effects, and sensorial disturbances. Environmental and personal risk factors should also be compiled and assessed. Workplace health promotion should include programs for smoking cessation and stress and IAQ management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Carrer
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences "L. Sacco", University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy.
| | - Peder Wolkoff
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.
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Lu CY, Tsai MC, Muo CH, Kuo YH, Sung FC, Wu CC. Personal, Psychosocial and Environmental Factors Related to Sick Building Syndrome in Official Employees of Taiwan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 15:ijerph15010007. [PMID: 29271881 PMCID: PMC5800107 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Sick building syndrome (SBS) is a combination of symptoms that can be attributed to exposure to specific building conditions. The present study recruited 389 participants aged 20–65 years from 87 offices of 16 institutions to examine if personal factors, work-related psychosocial stress, and work environments, were associated with five groups of SBS symptoms, including symptoms for eyes, upper respiratory tract, lower respiratory tract, skin, and non-specific systems. Indoor environmental conditions were monitored. Data were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression (MLR) analyses and were reported as adjusted Odds Ratios (aOR). SBS symptoms for eyes were associated with older age, sensitivity to tobacco, and low indoor air flow. Upper respiratory symptoms were related to smoking, low social support, longer work days, and dry air. High indoor air flow was associated with reduced upper respiratory symptoms (aOR = 0.29; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.13–0.67). Lower respiratory symptoms were associated with high work pressure, longer work hours, chemical exposure, migraine, and exposure to new interior painting. Recent interior painting exposure was associated with a high estimated relative risk of low respiratory symptoms (aOR = 20.6; 95% CI = 2.96–143). Smoking, longer work days, low indoor air flow, indoor dryness, and volatile organics exposure, were associated with other non-specified symptoms including headache, tiredness, difficulty concentrating, anger, and dizziness. In conclusion, there are various SBS symptoms associated with different personal characteristics, psychosocial, and environmental factors. Psychosocial factors had stronger relationships with lower respiratory symptoms than with other types of SBS symptoms. Good ventilation could reduce risk factors and may relieve SBS symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung-Yen Lu
- Department of Sport and Health Management, Da-Yeh University, Changhua 51591, Taiwan.
| | - Meng-Chuan Tsai
- Department of Sport and Health Management, Da-Yeh University, Changhua 51591, Taiwan.
| | - Chih-Hsin Muo
- Management Office for Health Data, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan.
| | - Yu-Hsien Kuo
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan.
| | - Fung-Chang Sung
- Management Office for Health Data, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan.
- Department of Health Services Administration, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.
| | - Chin-Ching Wu
- Department of Public Health, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.
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Salin JT, Salkinoja-Salonen M, Salin PJ, Nelo K, Holma T, Ohtonen P, Syrjälä H. Building-related symptoms are linked to the in vitro toxicity of indoor dust and airborne microbial propagules in schools: A cross-sectional study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2017; 154:234-239. [PMID: 28107741 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2017.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Indoor microbial toxicity is suspected to cause some building-related symptoms, but supporting epidemiological data are lacking. OBJECTIVE We examined whether the in vitro toxicity of indoor samples from school buildings was associated with work-related health symptoms (building-related symptoms, BRS). METHODS Administrators of the Helsinki City Real Estate Department selected 15 schools for the study, and a questionnaire on symptoms connected to work was sent to the teachers in the selected schools for voluntary completion. The cellular toxicity of classroom samples was determined by testing substances extracted from wiped indoor dust and by testing microbial biomass that was cultured on fallout plates. Boar sperm cells were used as indicator cells, and motility loss was the indicator for toxic effects. The effects were expressed as the half maximal effective concentration (EC50) at which >50% of the exposed boar sperm cells were immobile compared to vehicle control. RESULTS Completed symptom questionnaires were received from 232 teachers [median age, 43 years; 190 (82.3%) women] with a median time of 6 years working at their school. Samples from their classrooms were available and were assessed for cellular toxicity. The Poisson regression model showed that the impact of extracts of surface-wiped school classroom dust on teacher work-related BRS was 2.8-fold (95% CI: 1.6-4.9) higher in classrooms with a toxic threshold EC50 of 6µgml-1 versus classrooms with insignificant EC50 values (EC50 >50µgml-1); P<0.001. The number of symptoms that were alleviated during vacation was higher in school classrooms with high sperm toxicity compared to less toxic sites; the RR was 1.9 (95% CI: 1.1-3.3, P=0.03) for wiped dust extracts. CONCLUSIONS Teachers working in classrooms where the samples showed high sperm toxicity had more BRS. The boar sperm cell motility inhibition assay appears promising as a tool for demonstrating the presence of indoor substances associated with BRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- J T Salin
- Department of Infection Control, Oulu University Hospital, Finland
| | - M Salkinoja-Salonen
- Department of Food and Environmental Sciences, FI 00014 University of Helsinki, Finland; Department of Electrical Engineering and Automation, Aalto University, Espoo, Finland
| | - P J Salin
- Oulu University Hospital, Inspector Sec Oy Laboratories, Oulu, Finland; Department of Food and Environmental Sciences, FI 00014 University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - K Nelo
- Oulu University Hospital, Inspector Sec Oy Laboratories, Oulu, Finland
| | - T Holma
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Oulu University Hospital, Finland; PEDEGO Research Unit, University of Oulu, Finland; Medical Research Center Oulu, Finland
| | - P Ohtonen
- Division of Operative Care and Medical Research Center, Finland
| | - H Syrjälä
- Department of Infection Control, Oulu University Hospital, Finland.
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Lifestyle and Environmental Influences on Skin. LIFESTYLE MEDICINE 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-810401-9.00028-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Chen YY, Sung FC, Chen ML, Mao IF, Lu CY. Indoor Air Quality in the Metro System in North Taiwan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:ijerph13121200. [PMID: 27918460 PMCID: PMC5201341 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13121200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Revised: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Indoor air pollution is an increasing health concern, especially in enclosed environments such as underground subway stations because of increased global usage by urban populations. This study measured the indoor air quality of underground platforms at 10 metro stations of the Taipei Rapid Transit system (TRTS) in Taiwan, including humidity, temperature, carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), formaldehyde (HCHO), total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs), ozone (O3), airborne particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), bacteria and fungi. Results showed that the CO2, CO and HCHO levels met the stipulated standards as regulated by Taiwan’s Indoor Air Quality Management Act (TIAQMA). However, elevated PM10 and PM2.5 levels were measured at most stations. TVOCs and bacterial concentrations at some stations measured in summer were higher than the regulated standards stipulated by Taiwan’s Environmental Protection Administration. Further studies should be conducted to reduce particulate matters, TVOCs and bacteria in the air of subway stations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Yi Chen
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan.
| | - Fung-Chang Sung
- Management Office for Health Data, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Public Health, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.
| | - Mei-Lien Chen
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan.
| | - I-Fang Mao
- Department of Occupational Safety and Health, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan.
- Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan.
| | - Chung-Yen Lu
- Department of Sport and Health Management, Da-Yeh University, No.168, University Rd., Dacun, Changhua 51591, Taiwan.
- School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.
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Lu C, Deng Q, Li Y, Sundell J, Norbäck D. Outdoor air pollution, meteorological conditions and indoor factors in dwellings in relation to sick building syndrome (SBS) among adults in China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2016; 560-561:186-196. [PMID: 27101454 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Revised: 04/05/2016] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Indoor environment is associated with the sick building syndrome (SBS), but little is known about the contribution of outdoor air pollution and meteorological conditions to SBS. We studied associations between outdoor air pollution, meteorological parameters and selected indoor exposure and building characteristics at home and weekly SBS symptoms in a standardized questionnaire study among 3485 randomly selected adults in China. Outdoor factors included particulate matters with diameter <10μm (PM10), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), outdoor temperature (T), relative air humidity (RH), and wind speed (WS) during last three months. Multiple logistic regression was applied calculating odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Asthma or allergic rhinitis (atopy) was associated with all types of SBS symptoms except fatigue. Indoor factors played a major role in SBS symptoms. Mold/dampness on the floor/ceiling was associated with fatigue OR=1.60 (1.11-2.30) and headache OR=1.80 (1.07-3.04). Moldy odor was associated with fatigue OR=1.59 (1.07-2.37) and dermal symptoms OR=1.91 (1.21-3.02). Window pane condensation in winter was associated with fatigue OR=1.73 (1.30-2.31) and throat symptoms OR=1.53 (1.01-2.31). Damp bed clothing was related with throat symptom OR=1.62 (1.09-2.40). Home redecoration was associated with fatigue OR=1.49 (1.07-2.06). Frequent window opening was associated with less nose symptoms OR=0.54 (0.36-0.82) and mechanical ventilation in the bathroom reduced dermal symptoms OR=0.66 (0.44-0.99). Females were more susceptible to redecoration and window pane condensation than men. No associations with SBS were observed for outdoor air pollutants or meteorological parameters in the final models combining indoor and outdoor factors, although SO2, T, and RH were associated with some SBS symptoms (fatigue, eyes and nose symptoms) in the separate outdoor models. In conclusion, indoor mold/dampness, air pollution from redecoration and poorer ventilation conditions in dwellings can be risk factors for SBS symptoms in an adult Chinese population, especially among females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan Lu
- School of Energy Science and Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qihong Deng
- School of Energy Science and Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Yuguo Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jan Sundell
- School of Energy Science and Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; School of Architecture, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Dan Norbäck
- Department of Medical Sciences/Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Controlling Indoor Air Pollution from Moxibustion. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:ijerph13060612. [PMID: 27331817 PMCID: PMC4924069 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13060612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Revised: 06/13/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Indoor air quality (IAQ) control of hospitals plays a critical role in protecting both hospital staffs and patients, particularly those who are highly susceptible to the adverse effects of indoor noxious hazards. However, moxibustion in outpatient departments (OPDs) of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) may be a source of indoor air pollution in hospitals. Some studies have investigated indoor air pollution during moxibustion in Chinese medicine clinics (CMCs) and moxibustion rooms, demonstrating elevated air pollutants that pose a threat to the health of medical staff and patients. Our study investigated the indoor air pollutants of indoor carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), formaldehyde (HCHO), total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs), airborne particulate matter with a diameter of ≤10 µm (PM10) and ≤2.5 µm (PM2.5) during moxibustion in an acupuncture and moxibustion room of the OPD in a hospital in Taipei. To evaluate the different control strategies for indoor air pollution from moxibution, a comparison of air pollutants during moxibution among the methods of using alternative old moxa wools, local exhaust ventilation and an air cleaner was conducted. In this study, burning alternative old moxa wools for moxibustion obviously reduced all gaseous pollutants except for aerosols comparing burning fresh moxa wools. Using local exhaust ventilation reduced most of the aerosols after burning moxa. We also found that using an air cleaner was inefficient for controlling indoor air pollutants, particularly gaseous pollutants. Therefore, combining replacing alternative old moxa wools and local exhaust ventilation could be a suitable design for controlling indoor air pollution during moxibustion therapy.
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Lu CY, Lin JM, Chen YY, Chen YC. Building-Related Symptoms among Office Employees Associated with Indoor Carbon Dioxide and Total Volatile Organic Compounds. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 12:5833-45. [PMID: 26024357 PMCID: PMC4483674 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120605833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2015] [Revised: 04/10/2015] [Accepted: 05/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated whether sick building syndrome (SBS) complaints among office workers were associated with the indoor air quality. With informed consent, 417 employees in 87 office rooms of eight high-rise buildings completed a self-reported questionnaire for symptoms experienced at work during the past month. Carbon dioxide (CO2), temperature, humidity and total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) in each office were simultaneously measured for eight office hours using portable monitors. Time-averaged workday difference between the indoor and the outdoor CO2 concentrations (dCO2) was calculated as a surrogate measure of ventilation efficiency for each office unit. The prevalence rates of SBS were 22.5% for eye syndrome, 15.3% for upper respiratory and 25.4% for non-specific syndromes. Tiredness (20.9%), difficulty in concentrating (14.6%), eye dryness (18.7%) were also common complaints. The generalized estimating equations multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence interval (CI) per 100 ppm increase in dCO2 were significantly associated with dry throat (1.10, 95% CI=(1.00-1.22)), tiredness (1.16, 95% CI=(1.04-1.29)) and dizziness (1.22, 95% CI=(1.08-1.37)). The ORs for per 100 ppb increases in TVOCs were also associated with upper respiratory symptoms (1.06, 95% CI=(1.04-1.07)), dry throat (1.06, 95% CI=(1.03-1.09)) and irritability (1.02, 95% CI=(1.01-1.04)). In conclusion, the association between some SBS symptoms and the exposure to CO2 and total VOCs are moderate but may be independently significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung-Yen Lu
- School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan.
- Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404, Taiwan.
| | - Jia-Min Lin
- Institute of Environmental Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan.
| | - Ying-Yi Chen
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 100, Taiwan.
| | - Yi-Chun Chen
- Department of Health Management, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan.
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Jung CC, Liang HH, Lee HL, Hsu NY, Su HJ. Allostatic load model associated with indoor environmental quality and sick building syndrome among office workers. PLoS One 2014; 9:e95791. [PMID: 24759685 PMCID: PMC3997416 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0095791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2014] [Accepted: 03/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigates whether indoor environmental quality (IEQ) influences allostatic load (AL) and whether AL can be a predictor for sick building syndrome (SBS). We also assessed and compared the associations between AL and SBS versus 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and SBS. A total of 115 office workers from 21 offices completed self-reported SBS questionnaires, and provided 11 biomarkers for their AL. Multiple linear regressions and logistic regression analysis were applied to examine the correlations between IEQ and AL or 8-OHdG and between AL or 8-OHdG and SBS, respectively. Our data revealed that the neuroendocrine system was correlated with CO2, the difference between indoor and outdoor CO2 levels (dCO2), and the indoor-outdoor ratio of CO2 (CO2 I/O). Metabolic system effects were associated with illumination. The relationships between illumination, CO2, dCO2, CO2 I/O and 8-OHdG were consistent with those and AL in specific systems. Furthermore, we found that risks for SBS syndromes were related with neuroendocrine and metabolic system of the AL. 8-OHdG was associated with eye dryness or irritation, eye tiredness and vomiting. We conclude that IEQ significantly influences AL and that AL can be a predictor for reporting SBS with information on system-specific effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Cheng Jung
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan city, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Hao Liang
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan city, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ling Lee
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science and Engineering, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei city, Taiwan
| | - Nai-Yun Hsu
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan city, Taiwan
| | - Huey-Jen Su
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan city, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
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Mayer S. Die gesundheitliche Relevanz von Innenraumbelastungen — Die Bedeutung von Gerüchen. ZENTRALBLATT FÜR ARBEITSMEDIZIN, ARBEITSSCHUTZ UND ERGONOMIE 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/bf03350877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Mosaddegh MH, Jafarian A, Ghasemi A, Mosaddegh A. Phytoremediation of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene contaminated air by D. deremensis and O. microdasys plants. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCE & ENGINEERING 2014; 12:39. [PMID: 24451679 PMCID: PMC3996197 DOI: 10.1186/2052-336x-12-39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 11/30/2013] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People usually spent about 90% of their time indoors, which are probably more polluted than outside the buildings. High levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are known as causes of sick building syndrome. The present study was designed to determine the quantitative effects of some plants to improve the quality of the environmental air. RESULTS D. deremensis and O. microdasys were chosen for the present study. There is no report of using O. microdasys for cleaning the air from pollutants. So, in this study, the effectiveness of O. microdasys in air removing from pollutants was studied and compared with D. dermensis.O. microdasys plant can remove 2 ppm concentration benzene, toluene, xylene and ethylbenzene from air in test chambers completely after 48, 55, 47 and 57 hours, respectively. The removal rates of benzene, toluene, xylene and ethylbenzene (BTEX) from air in the test chambers were 1.18, 0.54, 1.64 and 1.35 mg/ m2d1, respectively. CONCLUSIONS If an office containing 2.5 ppm of each of BTEX and had an approximate volume of 30 m3, it contains 16, 8, 22 and 22 mg/m3 benzene, toluene, xylene and ethylbenzene, respectively. Using ten O. microdasys pots with the same size used in this study, can remove benzene, toluene, xylene and ethylbenzene totally after 36, 40, 30 and 39 hours.The authors recommended studying the efficiency of the plants for removal of BTEX from air at higher range of concentrations such as 20-30 ppm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hossein Mosaddegh
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Yazd Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Abbas Jafarian
- Department of Pharmacolgy and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Adele Ghasemi
- Department of Pharmacolgy and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Alimohammad Mosaddegh
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Yazd Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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Vicente-Herrero MT, Ramírez-Iñiguez de la Torre MV, Terradillos-García MJ, López González ÁA. [Dry eye syndrome. Occupational risk factors, valuation and prevention]. Semergen 2013; 40:97-103. [PMID: 23993023 DOI: 10.1016/j.semerg.2013.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Revised: 05/05/2013] [Accepted: 05/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Dry eye syndrome in the workplace is associated with new ways of working, with increasing use of screens and electronic devices and environmental conditions encountered in modern office designs and other environments. Also affect occupational exposure to ionizing radiation, chemicals or atmospheric dust with increased ocular dryness. The study of pathophysiological aspects and laboral causality of the dry eye, must be to develop joint task in Occupational Health, Public Health in coordination with and responsible for the national health system, which would involve primary and secondary preventive measures more effective and proper diagnosis, control and monitoring of the disease, A better knowledge of occupational hazards and actions agreed and coordinated between occupational physicians, preventers, primary care physicians and specialist physicians, such as ophthalmology, will get results much more effective when earlier and optimize available resources.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Á A López González
- Medicina del Trabajo, Universidad Illes Balears, Servei de Salut, Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, España
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Wang J, Li B, Yang Q, Wang H, Norback D, Sundell J. Sick building syndrome among parents of preschool children in relation to home environment in Chongqing, China. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s11434-013-5814-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Sahlberg B, Norbäck D, Wieslander G, Gislason T, Janson C. Onset of mucosal, dermal, and general symptoms in relation to biomarkers and exposures in the dwelling: a cohort study from 1992 to 2002. INDOOR AIR 2012; 22:331-338. [PMID: 22257085 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0668.2012.00766.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED We examined the associations between biomarkers of allergy and inflammation, indoor environment in dwellings, and incidence and remission of symptoms included in the sick building syndrome (SBS) and changes in the home environment of 452 adults who were followed from 1992 to 2002 within the Uppsala part of the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS). The 10-year incidence (onset) of general, mucosal, and dermal symptoms was 8.5%, 12.7%, and 6.8%, respectively. Dampness or indoor molds at baseline was a predictor of incidence of general (relative risk [RR] = 1.98), mucosal (RR = 2.28), and dermal symptoms (RR = 1.91). Women had higher incidence of general (RR = 1.74) and mucosal symptoms (RR = 1.71). Indoor painting increased the incidence of general symptoms (RR = 1.62). Bronchial responsiveness (BR), eosinophil counts in blood, total IgE and eosinophilic cationic protein (ECP) in serum at baseline were predictors of incidence of SBS. At follow-up, BR, total IgE, and C-reactive protein (CRP ) were associated with increased incidence of SBS. Moreover, subjects with doctor-diagnosed asthma at baseline had a higher incidence of general (RR = 1.65) and mucosal symptoms (RR = 1.97). In conclusion, female gender, dampness or indoor molds, indoor painting, and biomarkers of allergy and inflammation were associated with a higher incidence of SBS symptoms, in particular mucosal symptoms. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS The focus in Sweden on indoor environment issues over the last few decades has resulted in improvements in dwellings, and reduced tobacco smoking, which could be beneficial for public health. Reducing dampness and molds in the dwelling place is another important way of reducing occurrence of SBS symptoms in the general adult population. The association between the incidence of SBS symptoms and clinical biomarkers of allergy and inflammation suggests a common etiology between inflammatory diseases, including asthma, rhinitis, and SBS. Lastly, good agreement between self-reported and clinically diagnosed atopy indicates that questionnaire data on atopy can be used in epidemiological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Sahlberg
- Department of Medical Sciences, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Uppsala University Hospital and Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Herbarth O. Explanatory models in toxicological studies applying unreal exposure situations-an example. Arch Toxicol 2010; 84:579-81. [PMID: 20464546 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-010-0553-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2010] [Accepted: 04/29/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Mörbt N, Mögel I, Kalkhof S, Feltens R, Röder-Stolinski C, Zheng J, Vogt C, Lehmann I, von Bergen M. Proteome changes in human bronchoalveolar cells following styrene exposure indicate involvement of oxidative stress in the molecular-response mechanism. Proteomics 2009; 9:4920-33. [PMID: 19862763 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.200800836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Styrene is a volatile organic compound that is widely used as an intermediate in many industrial settings. There are known adverse health effects at environmentally significant concentrations, but little is known about the molecular effect of exposure to styrene at sub-acute toxic concentrations. We exposed human lung epithelial cells, at a wide range of concentrations (1 mg/m(3)-10 g/m(3)), to styrene and analyzed the effects on the proteome level by 2-DE, where 1380 proteins spots were detected and 266 were identified unambiguously by MS. A set of 16 protein spots were found to be significantly altered due to exposure to styrene at environmentally significant concentrations of 1-10 mg/m(3) (0.2-2.3 ppm). Among these, superoxide dismutase as well as biliverdin reductase A could be correlated with the molecular pathway of oxidative stress, while eukaryotic translation initiation factor 5A-1, ezrin, lamin B2 and voltage-dependent anion channel 2 have been reported to be involved in apoptosis. Treatment with styrene also caused the formation of styrene oxide-protein adducts, specifically for thioredoxin reductase 1. These results underline the relevance of oxidative stress as a primary molecular response mechanism of lung epithelial cells to styrene exposure at indoor-relevant concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Mörbt
- Department of Proteomics, UFZ, Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research, Leipzig, Germany
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Current world literature. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 2009; 9:79-85. [PMID: 19106700 DOI: 10.1097/aci.0b013e328323adb4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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[Oxidative stress and the possibilities of measuring it for environmental medicine: Report of the Commission "Methods and Quality Assurance in Environmental Medicine"]]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2009; 51:1464-82. [PMID: 19137223 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-008-0720-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Morimoto Y, Kitamura H, Kuga H, Ide R, Myojo T, Higashi T, Satoh T, Aizawa Y. [New investigation of the effect of toner and its by-products on human health and occupational health management of toner]. SANGYO EISEIGAKU ZASSHI = JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 2009; 51:1-10. [PMID: 19110528 DOI: 10.1539/sangyoeisei.a8001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
We need a new investigation of the effect of not only toner but also of its by-products on human health, because of the generation of fine particles and the release of volatile organic compounds (VOC) in the process of photocopy. Therefore, we gathered epidemiological and animal data on toner and its by-products, and examined the occupational health management of toner. We examined the effect of carbonblack as the main component of toner, and titanium dioxide and amorphous silica as surface-adhesive nanomaterials, and VOC on human health, and reviewed them. We summarize the results as follows. 1) High sensitive c-reactive protein in serum, 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine in urine, and heart rate variability (HRV) are useful for biological monitoring of exposure to toner and its by-products. 2) Particle number concentrations have been often measured by scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS) compared with other apparatus, although this is not measurement gold standard. Taken together, we have examined whole occupational health management of toner and its by-products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuo Morimoto
- Institute of Industrial Ecological Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Fukuoka, Japan.
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