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Claeson AS, Rosa E, Nordin S. Time dependency and individual variation in human sensory irritation from acrolein - a controlled exposure study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2024:1-10. [PMID: 39196364 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2024.2395436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
Acrolein is considered a risk factor for indoor air health problems due to its reactivity. An objective of the study was to investigate prevalence of sensory irritation in terms of time-dependent detection and perceived intensity of symptoms in human volunteers. Another objective was to investigate individual variation in sensory irritation. Participants (n=40) were exposed twice in an exposure chamber (15 min), once to heptane and once to acrolein and heptane. Symptoms and sensory irritation thresholds were rated continuously and 70% of the participants detected eye irritation from the acrolein exposure. A significant interaction between time and exposure (ƞp2=0.19) was identified, indicating time-dependent activation. This group also reported a higher level of stress and lower self-reported health (p<0.05). The results suggest that the eye is the primary system affected by exposure to acrolein, and that duration of exposure and perceived stress play important roles in symptom reactions due to acrolein exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eduardo Rosa
- Department of Psychology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Steven Nordin
- Department of Psychology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Kleinbeck S, Wolkoff P. Exposure limits for indoor volatile substances concerning the general population: The role of population-based differences in sensory irritation of the eyes and airways for assessment factors. Arch Toxicol 2024; 98:617-662. [PMID: 38243103 PMCID: PMC10861400 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-023-03642-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Assessment factors (AFs) are essential in the derivation of occupational exposure limits (OELs) and indoor air quality guidelines. The factors shall accommodate differences in sensitivity between subgroups, i.e., workers, healthy and sick people, and occupational exposure versus life-long exposure for the general population. Derivation of AFs itself is based on empirical knowledge from human and animal exposure studies with immanent uncertainty in the empirical evidence due to knowledge gaps and experimental reliability. Sensory irritation in the eyes and airways constitute about 30-40% of OELs and is an abundant symptom in non-industrial buildings characterizing the indoor air quality and general health. Intraspecies differences between subgroups of the general population should be quantified for the proposal of more 'empirical' based AFs. In this review, we focus on sensitivity differences in sensory irritation about gender, age, health status, and vulnerability in people, based solely on human exposure studies. Females are more sensitive to sensory irritation than males for few volatile substances. Older people appear less sensitive than younger ones. However, impaired defense mechanisms may increase vulnerability in the long term. Empirical evidence of sensory irritation in children is rare and limited to children down to the age of six years. Studies of the nervous system in children compared to adults suggest a higher sensitivity in children; however, some defense mechanisms are more efficient in children than in adults. Usually, exposure studies are performed with healthy subjects. Exposure studies with sick people are not representative due to the deselection of subjects with moderate or severe eye or airway diseases, which likely underestimates the sensitivity of the group of people with diseases. Psychological characterization like personality factors shows that concentrations of volatile substances far below their sensory irritation thresholds may influence the sensitivity, in part biased by odor perception. Thus, the protection of people with extreme personality traits is not feasible by an AF and other mitigation strategies are required. The available empirical evidence comprising age, lifestyle, and health supports an AF of not greater than up to 2 for sensory irritation. Further, general AFs are discouraged for derivation, rather substance-specific derivation of AFs is recommended based on the risk assessment of empirical data, deposition in the airways depending on the substance's water solubility and compensating for knowledge and experimental gaps. Modeling of sensory irritation would be a better 'empirical' starting point for derivation of AFs for children, older, and sick people, as human exposure studies are not possible (due to ethical reasons) or not generalizable (due to self-selection). Dedicated AFs may be derived for environments where dry air, high room temperature, and visually demanding tasks aggravate the eyes or airways than for places in which the workload is balanced, while indoor playgrounds might need other AFs due to physical workload and affected groups of the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Kleinbeck
- Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Dortmund, Germany.
| | - Peder Wolkoff
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Chen J, Zhang N, Pei S, Yao L. Odor perception of aromatherapy essential oils with different chemical types: Influence of gender and two cultural characteristics. Front Psychol 2022; 13:998612. [PMID: 36438419 PMCID: PMC9686375 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.998612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Olfactory perception, and especially affective responses of odors, is highly flexible, but some mechanisms involved in this flexibility remain to be elucidated. This study investigated the odor perceptions of several essential oils used in aromatherapy with emotion regulation functions among college students. The influences of people's characteristics including gender, hometown region, and fragrance usage habit on odor perception were further discussed. Odor perception of nine essential oils, which can be divided into the ester-alcohol type (e.g., lavender oil) and terpene type (e.g., lemon oil) were evaluated under three odor concentrations. The results indicated that chemical type, but not concentration, significantly influenced the odor perception and there was no interaction between the two factors in this study. The arousal and emotional perception scores of odors with terpene-type oil were significantly higher than odors with ester-alcohol type. In terms of people's characteristics, participants from the southern Yangtze river gave a higher familiarity rating to almost all of these odors. The habits of fragrance usage also significantly influenced some of the odors' subjective intensity and emotional perception ratings. However, there were no significant gender differences in most of the odor perceptions. In addition, familiarity and pleasantness were positively correlated, and emotional perception and subjective intensity also showed a weak correlation. These results suggested that users' cultural characteristics could be considered to be important factors that affect the essential oil's odor perception in aromatherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Chen
- School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Aromatic Plant R&D Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Aromatic Plant R&D Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shichun Pei
- School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Aromatic Plant R&D Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Yao
- School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Aromatic Plant R&D Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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Reichherzer A, Wargocki P, Mayer F, Norrefeldt V, Herbig B. Increased self-reported sensitivity to environmental stimuli and its effects on perception of air quality and well-being. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2022; 246:114045. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2022.114045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Li Q, Xia M, Guo X, Shi Y, Guan R, Liu Q, Cai Y, Lu H. Spatial characteristics and influencing factors of risk perception of haze in China: The case study of publishing online comments about haze news on Sina. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 785:147236. [PMID: 33932661 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Haze has become an important factor to harm people's health. In the face of the harm of haze, people express risk perception behavior through publishing online comments on haze news. To a certain extent, online comments affect the government's decision to deal with haze. However, most of the previous efforts only focused on several cities from a micro perspective whereas the existing research lacks to explore the regional differences of risk perception behavior of the whole country from a macro perspective. The macro perspective of research can help policymakers to formulate strategies of haze control according to local conditions. Therefore, it is important to understand the risk perception behavior of publishing online comments and haze from the macro perspective. In this study, we use quantitative methods to study the spatial-temporal characteristics of online comments and PM2.5 in 334 cities in China from 2014 to 2018. From the spatial perspective, the spatial characteristics of online comments are quite different from those of PM2.5 at the city level. It can be seen that the spatial mismatch can affect the government's strategy of haze control according to local conditions. From the perspective of influencing factors, we find that the risk perception behavior of publishing online comments conforms to the theory of environmental risk perception. Firstly, the local social development level is the largest driving force accelerating risk perception behavior. Secondly, information channel also has significantly positive effect on public risk perception behavior. Finally, the harmful degree of haze has the least positive effect on people's risk perception behavior. This gives us enlightenment. The number of online comments does not reflect the harmful degree of haze in different regions. We suggest that online comments should not be the main reference factor for policymakers to make strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Li
- College of Environment and Planning/Key Research Institute of Yellow River Civilization and Sustainable Development & Collaborative Innovation Center on Yellow River Civilization of Henan Province, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Menglin Xia
- College of Environment and Planning/Key Research Institute of Yellow River Civilization and Sustainable Development & Collaborative Innovation Center on Yellow River Civilization of Henan Province, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Xiaona Guo
- School of Geographic Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Yalin Shi
- College of Environment and Planning/Key Research Institute of Yellow River Civilization and Sustainable Development & Collaborative Innovation Center on Yellow River Civilization of Henan Province, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Ruimin Guan
- College of Environment and Planning/Key Research Institute of Yellow River Civilization and Sustainable Development & Collaborative Innovation Center on Yellow River Civilization of Henan Province, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Qing Liu
- College of Environment and Planning/Key Research Institute of Yellow River Civilization and Sustainable Development & Collaborative Innovation Center on Yellow River Civilization of Henan Province, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Yongxin Cai
- College of Environment and Planning/Key Research Institute of Yellow River Civilization and Sustainable Development & Collaborative Innovation Center on Yellow River Civilization of Henan Province, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Heli Lu
- College of Environment and Planning/Key Research Institute of Yellow River Civilization and Sustainable Development & Collaborative Innovation Center on Yellow River Civilization of Henan Province, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; Key Laboratory of Geospatial Technology for the Middle and Lower Yellow River Regions (Henan University), Ministry of Education/National Demonstration Center for Environment and Planning, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Earth System Observation and Modeling, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China.
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6
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The Grass Is Always Greener on My Side: A Field Experiment Examining the Home Halo Effect. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12166335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Wood-burning pollution is a severe problem in southern Chile, where every winter, people are exposed to unhealthy ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations. Urban air quality is a major concern for health officials, but public awareness campaigns tend to focus on outdoor hazards. Our understanding of how residents are exposed and perceive air pollution risks in their homes remains incomplete. This study explores the ability of participants to perceive indoor air quality. We collected data on 81 households, combining perceptions of air quality with objective measurements of PM2.5. Residents’ evaluations of air quality were systematically compared to inspectors’ evaluations in order to examine the home halo effect. We found that residents tended to overestimate air quality in their homes. We discuss how our data supported the existence of a home halo effect, but also point out the possibility that individuals’ ability to perceive air quality in indoor spaces is limited by other factors.
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Chen Q, Zhang J, Xu Y, Sun H, Ding Z. Associations between individual perceptions of PM 2.5 pollution and pulmonary function in Chinese middle-aged and elderly residents. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:899. [PMID: 32522184 PMCID: PMC7288539 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-08713-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background PM2.5 pollution has become a major public health concern in urban China. Understanding the residents’ individual perceptions toward haze pollution is critical for policymaking and risk communication. However, the perceptions of middle-aged and elderly residents, who particularly vulnerable to haze pollution, are poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to explore their risk perceptions of haze pollution and investigate its relationship with health status and pulmonary function parameters. Methods A cross-sectional study of 400 randomly sampled individuals (aged 40 to 90 years) was conducted in Wuxi, a typical PM2.5-polluted city in Jiangsu Province, China (during 2015–2017, daily average concentration of PM2.5 was 52.7 μg/m3). Each participant’s demographic and health information, individual perception and pulmonary function outcomes were collected to explore the relationships between perception factors and personal characteristics and pulmonary function parameters, using linear models. Results We found that the mean values for controllability (5 ± 2.8) and dread of risk to oneself (levels of fear for haze-related harm to oneself) (6.9 ± 2.5) were the lowest and the highest values, respectively, in our study. Education and average family income were positively related with all individual perception factors, while age was negatively associated. A history of respiratory disease was positively associated with all individual perception factors except controllability. Significant positive associations were observed between PEF (coefficients ranged from 0.18 to 0.22) and FEF75% (coefficients ranged from 0.18 to 0.29) with a variety of individual perception factors. Conclusions There were a lack of concern and knowledge, weak self-protection consciousness and a strong dread of PM2.5 pollution among the middle-aged and elderly residents in Wuxi. Their individual perceptions were associated with age, education levels, average family income, history of respiratory disease, PEF and FEF75%. Our findings may help policymakers develop effective policies and communication strategies to mitigate the hazards of haze among older residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Chen
- Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Road 172, 210009, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Jiayao Zhang
- Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Disease, Meiyuan Yang Alley 117, 214064, Wuxi, PR China
| | - Yan Xu
- Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Road 172, 210009, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Hong Sun
- Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Road 172, 210009, Nanjing, PR China.
| | - Zhen Ding
- Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Road 172, 210009, Nanjing, PR China.
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Risk Perception on Haze Pollution and Willingness to Pay for Self-Protection and Haze Management in Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand. ATMOSPHERE 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos11060600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Air pollution is an important environmental health risk that affects people worldwide, including those in the Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand. A questionnaire survey based on accidental sampling to explore risk perception and willingness to pay (WTP) for self-protection and haze management was conducted via face-to-face interview of 250 households, in one urban and four rural areas (covering one rural plain and three different levels of highland areas). Data were analyzed using the contingent valuation method, a one-way ANOVA, correlation, and stepwise multiple linear regression. Key findings on risk perception found that urban respondents living in the lowest areas were more familiar with and experienced more effects from serious haze, while having the least trust in the local authority’s management to cope with the situation. Influential factors determining familiarity and effect for people in most areas were their harm and severe haze experiences. Comparing WTP for a mask, an air purifier, and local authorities support, respondents in all areas were mainly willing to pay for a mask; this was influenced by various factors. The highest average price of willingness to pay was found in the urban area. The important significant factors that increased WTP for self-protection of urban respondents was severe haze experience, while rural respondents who had a longer stay duration, including married farmers in highland areas with less education, tended to have less WTP for self-protection but more WTP for haze management. Avoiding crop residue burning is the first strategy that should be used to deal with haze pollution. Early burning schedules of the highland people should be formally announced, and prompt risk communication should be implemented by local and central authorities and media practitioners.
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Kleinbeck S, Schäper M, Pacharra M, Lehmann ML, Golka K, Blaszkewicz M, Brüning T, van Thriel C. A short-term inhalation study to assess the reversibility of sensory irritation in human volunteers. Arch Toxicol 2020; 94:1687-1701. [PMID: 32185413 PMCID: PMC7261732 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02703-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Sensory irritation is an acute adverse effect caused by chemicals that stimulate chemoreceptors of the upper respiratory tract or the mucous membranes of the outer eye. The avoidance of this end point is of uttermost importance in regulatory toxicology. In this study, repeated exposures to ethyl acrylate were analyzed to investigate possible carryover effects from day to day for different markers of sensory irritation. Thirty healthy subjects were exposed for 4 h on five subsequent days to ethyl acrylate at concentrations permitted by the German occupational exposure limit at the time of study. Ratings of eye irritation as well as eye blinking frequencies indicate the elicitation of sensory irritation. These markers of sensory irritation showed a distinct time course on every single day. However, cumulative carryover effects could not be identified across the week for any marker. The rhinological and biochemical markers could not reveal hints for more pronounced sensory irritation. Neither increased markers of neurogenic inflammation nor markers of immune response could be identified. Furthermore, the performance on neurobehavioral tests was not affected by ethyl acrylate and despite the strong odor of ethyl acrylate the participants improved their performances from day to day. While the affected physiological marker, the increased eye blinking frequency stays roughly on the same level across the week, subjective markers like perception of eye irritation decrease slightly from day to day though the temporal pattern of, i.e., eye irritation perception stays the same on each day. A hypothetical model of eye irritation time course derived from PK/PD modeling of the rabbit eye could explain the within-day time course of eye irritation ratings repeatedly found in this study more precisely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Kleinbeck
- Leibniz Research Center for Working Environment and Human Factors, TU Dortmund University, Ardeystr. 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany.
| | - Michael Schäper
- Leibniz Research Center for Working Environment and Human Factors, TU Dortmund University, Ardeystr. 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Marlene Pacharra
- Leibniz Research Center for Working Environment and Human Factors, TU Dortmund University, Ardeystr. 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany.,MSH Medical School Hamburg, University of Applied Sciences and Medical University, Am Kaiserkai 1, 20457, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marie Louise Lehmann
- Leibniz Research Center for Working Environment and Human Factors, TU Dortmund University, Ardeystr. 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany.,Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Klaus Golka
- Leibniz Research Center for Working Environment and Human Factors, TU Dortmund University, Ardeystr. 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Meinolf Blaszkewicz
- Leibniz Research Center for Working Environment and Human Factors, TU Dortmund University, Ardeystr. 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Thomas Brüning
- Research Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bürkle de la Camp-Platz 1, 44789, Bochum, Germany
| | - Christoph van Thriel
- Leibniz Research Center for Working Environment and Human Factors, TU Dortmund University, Ardeystr. 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
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Multiple Chemical Sensitivity: Review of the State of the Art in Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Future Perspectives. J Occup Environ Med 2019; 60:138-146. [PMID: 29111991 PMCID: PMC5794238 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systematic bibliography analysis of about the last 17 years on multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) was carried out in order to detect new diagnostic and epidemiological evidence. The MCS is a complex syndrome that manifests as a result of exposure to a low level of various common contaminants. The etiology, diagnosis, and treatment are still debated among researchers. METHOD Querying PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane library, both using some specific MESH terms combined with MESH subheadings and through free search, even by Google. RESULTS The studies were analyzed by verifying 1) the typology of study design; 2) criteria for case definition; 3) presence of attendances in the emergency departments and hospital admissions, and 4) analysis of the risk factors. OUTLOOK With this review, we give some general considerations and hypothesis for possible future research.
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AlMatrouk A, Lemons K, Ogura T, Luo W, Wilson C, Lin W. Chemical Exposure-Induced Changes in the Expression of Neurotrophins and Their Receptors in the Main Olfactory System of Mice Lacking TRPM5-Expressing Microvillous Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E2939. [PMID: 30261693 PMCID: PMC6213160 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19102939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Revised: 08/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional maintenance of the mammalian main olfactory epithelium (MOE) is challenging because of its direct exposure to a wide spectrum of environmental chemicals. We previously reported that transient receptor potential channel M5-expressing microvillous cells (TRPM5-MCs) in the MOE play an important role in olfactory maintenance. To investigate the underpinning mechanisms, we exposed transcription factor Skn-1a knockout (Skn-1a-/-) mice lacking TRPM5-MCs, and TRPM5-GFP mice to either vehicle (water) or a mixture of odorous chemicals and chitin for two weeks and analyzed the expression of olfactory signaling proteins using immunolabeling and neurotrophin (NT) and NT receptor (NTR) gene transcripts using real-time quantitative PCR. The chemical exposure did not significantly attenuate the immunolabeling of olfactory signaling proteins. Vehicle-exposed Skn-1a-/- and TRPM5-GFP mice expressed similar levels of NT and NTR gene transcripts in the MOE and olfactory bulb. Chemical exposure significantly increased MOE expression of p75NTR in Skn-1a-/- mice, while p75NTR expression was reduced in TRPM5-GFP mice, as compared to vehicle-exposed mice. Additionally, our RNA in situ hybridization analysis and immunolabeling confirmed MOE expression of most NTs and NTRs. Together, these results indicate that TRPM5-MCs and chemical exposure influence expression of some NTs and NTRs in the MOE and olfactory bulb (OB).
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah AlMatrouk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA.
| | - Kayla Lemons
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA.
| | - Tatsuya Ogura
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA.
| | - Wangmei Luo
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA.
| | - Chantel Wilson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA.
| | - Weihong Lin
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA.
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Huang L, Rao C, van der Kuijp TJ, Bi J, Liu Y. A comparison of individual exposure, perception, and acceptable levels of PM 2.5 with air pollution policy objectives in China. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2017; 157:78-86. [PMID: 28525860 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2017.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Revised: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Atmospheric pollution has emerged as a major public health issue in China. Public perception and acceptable risk levels of air pollution can prompt individual behavioral changes and play a major role in the public's response to health risks. Therefore, to explore these responses and evaluate what constitutes publicly acceptable concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), questionnaire surveys were conducted in three representative cities of China: Beijing, Nanjing, and Guangzhou. Great differences in public risk perception were revealed. Public perception of the health effects of air pollution (Effect) and familiarity with it (Familiarity) were significantly higher in the winter than in the summer, and also during severe haze days compared with typical days. The public perception of trust in the government (Trust) was consistent across all conditions. Exposure to severe haze pollution and experiencing harms from it were key factors influencing public willingness to respond to haze. These results reflected individual exposure levels correlating closely with risk perception and acceptance of PM2.5. However, a crucial gap exists between public acceptable risk levels (PARL) of air pollution and the policy objectives of the State Council's Action Plan. Thus, policymakers can utilize this study to develop more targeted measures to combat air pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Xianlin Campus, Box 624, 163 Xianlin Avenue, Nanjing 210023, China; Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, Columbia University, P.O. Box 1000, 61 Rt. 9W. Palisades, NY 10964, USA.
| | - Chao Rao
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Xianlin Campus, Box 624, 163 Xianlin Avenue, Nanjing 210023, China
| | | | - Jun Bi
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Xianlin Campus, Box 624, 163 Xianlin Avenue, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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Lack of TRPM5-Expressing Microvillous Cells in Mouse Main Olfactory Epithelium Leads to Impaired Odor-Evoked Responses and Olfactory-Guided Behavior in a Challenging Chemical Environment. eNeuro 2017. [PMID: 28612045 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0135‐17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian main olfactory epithelium (MOE) modifies its activities in response to changes in the chemical environment. This process is essential for maintaining the functions of the olfactory system and the upper airway. However, mechanisms involved in this functional maintenance, especially those occurring via paracrine regulatory pathways within the multicellular MOE, are poorly understood. Previously, a population of non-neuronal, transient receptor potential M5-expressing microvillous cells (TRPM5-MCs) was identified in the MOE, and the initial characterization of these cells showed that they are cholinergic and responsive to various xenobiotics including odorants at high concentrations. Here, we investigated the role of TRPM5-MCs in maintaining olfactory function using transcription factor Skn-1a knockout (Skn-1a-/-) mice, which lack TRPM5-MCs in the MOE. Under our standard housing conditions, Skn-1a-/- mice do not differ significantly from control mice in odor-evoked electro-olfactogram (EOG) responses and olfactory-guided behaviors, including finding buried food and preference reactions to socially and sexually relevant odors. However, after a 2-wk exposure to high-concentration odor chemicals and chitin powder, Skn-1a-/- mice exhibited a significant reduction in their odor and pheromone-evoked EOG responses. Consequently, their olfactory-guided behaviors were impaired compared with vehicle-exposed Skn-1a-/- mice. Conversely, the chemical exposure did not induce significant changes in the EOG responses and olfactory behaviors of control mice. Therefore, our physiological and behavioral results indicate that TRPM5-MCs play a protective role in maintaining the olfactory function of the MOE.
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Lack of TRPM5-Expressing Microvillous Cells in Mouse Main Olfactory Epithelium Leads to Impaired Odor-Evoked Responses and Olfactory-Guided Behavior in a Challenging Chemical Environment. eNeuro 2017; 4:eN-NWR-0135-17. [PMID: 28612045 PMCID: PMC5467397 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0135-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Revised: 05/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian main olfactory epithelium (MOE) modifies its activities in response to changes in the chemical environment. This process is essential for maintaining the functions of the olfactory system and the upper airway. However, mechanisms involved in this functional maintenance, especially those occurring via paracrine regulatory pathways within the multicellular MOE, are poorly understood. Previously, a population of non-neuronal, transient receptor potential M5-expressing microvillous cells (TRPM5-MCs) was identified in the MOE, and the initial characterization of these cells showed that they are cholinergic and responsive to various xenobiotics including odorants at high concentrations. Here, we investigated the role of TRPM5-MCs in maintaining olfactory function using transcription factor Skn-1a knockout (Skn-1a-/-) mice, which lack TRPM5-MCs in the MOE. Under our standard housing conditions, Skn-1a-/- mice do not differ significantly from control mice in odor-evoked electro-olfactogram (EOG) responses and olfactory-guided behaviors, including finding buried food and preference reactions to socially and sexually relevant odors. However, after a 2-wk exposure to high-concentration odor chemicals and chitin powder, Skn-1a-/- mice exhibited a significant reduction in their odor and pheromone-evoked EOG responses. Consequently, their olfactory-guided behaviors were impaired compared with vehicle-exposed Skn-1a-/- mice. Conversely, the chemical exposure did not induce significant changes in the EOG responses and olfactory behaviors of control mice. Therefore, our physiological and behavioral results indicate that TRPM5-MCs play a protective role in maintaining the olfactory function of the MOE.
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Claeson AS, Lind N. Human exposure to acrolein: Time-dependence and individual variation in eye irritation. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2016; 45:20-27. [PMID: 27235799 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2016.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Revised: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to examine the time dependence on sensory irritation detection following exposure to threshold levels of acrolein, in humans. The exposures occurred in an exposure chamber and the subjects were breathing fresh air through a mask that covered the nose and mouth. All participants participated in four exposure conditions, of which three consisted of a mixture of acrolein and heptane and one of only heptane. Exposure to acrolein at a concentration half of the TLV-C lead to sensory irritation. The perceived sensory irritation resulted in both increased detectability and sensory irritation after about 6.8min of exposure in 58% of the participants. The study confirm the previously suggested LOAEL of about 0.34mg/m(3) for eye irritation due to acrolein exposure. The sensory irritation was still significant 10min after exposure. These results have implications for risk assessment and limit setting in occupational hygiene.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nina Lind
- Department of Economics, Swedish University of Agricultural Science, Uppsala, Sweden
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Pacharra M, Kleinbeck S, Schäper M, Blaszkewicz M, van Thriel C. Multidimensional assessment of self-reported chemical intolerance and its impact on chemosensory effects during ammonia exposure. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2016; 89:947-59. [DOI: 10.1007/s00420-016-1134-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Olfactory Acuity and Automatic Associations to Odor Words Modulate Adverse Effects of Ammonia. CHEMOSENS PERCEPT 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s12078-016-9202-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Pacharra M, Kleinbeck S, Schäper M, Juran SA, Hey K, Blaszkewicz M, Lehmann ML, Golka K, van Thriel C. Interindividual differences in chemosensory perception: Toward a better understanding of perceptual ratings during chemical exposures. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2016; 79:1026-1040. [PMID: 27924707 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2016.1219547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Perceptions that arise from stimulation of olfactory and trigeminal receptors in the nasal cavity guide the evaluation of chemical environment in humans. Strong interindividual differences in these assessments may be attributed to nonsensory factors such as gender, anxiety, and chemical sensitivity. Knowledge regarding the influence of these factors originates mainly from basic odor research using short-term exposure scenarios. In situations with continuous chemical exposures-common in the working environment-their impact is less clear. To investigate their role during the exposure to workplace chemicals, 4-hour experimental exposure studies (total N = 105) using nine different airborne chemicals were summarized. In each study, subjects evaluated a single chemical in a controlled environment by rating five chemosensory perceptions, including odor intensity, disgust, annoyance, pungency, and burning, several times during occupational limit and low exposures. It was investigated whether the effects of trait-like modulators, such as anxiety and self-reported chemical sensitivity, depend on exposure-related factors and gender. Trait-like modulators markedly affected ratings by women, but not men. Highly anxious women reported more intense annoyance and disgust than less anxious women. Stronger self-reported chemical sensitivity was associated with increased ratings of pungency and burning in women exposed to occupational limit concentrations. This study demonstrates that a complex interplay of exposure-related factors, gender, and trait-like individual differences affects perceptual ratings during continuous chemical exposure. It seems necessary to incorporate the assessment of specific as well as general trait-like modulators into future experimental exposure studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Pacharra
- a Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at TU Dortmund University (IfADo) , Dortmund , Germany
| | - Stefan Kleinbeck
- a Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at TU Dortmund University (IfADo) , Dortmund , Germany
| | - Michael Schäper
- a Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at TU Dortmund University (IfADo) , Dortmund , Germany
| | | | - Kathrin Hey
- a Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at TU Dortmund University (IfADo) , Dortmund , Germany
| | - Meinolf Blaszkewicz
- a Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at TU Dortmund University (IfADo) , Dortmund , Germany
| | - Marie-Louise Lehmann
- a Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at TU Dortmund University (IfADo) , Dortmund , Germany
| | - Klaus Golka
- a Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at TU Dortmund University (IfADo) , Dortmund , Germany
| | - Christoph van Thriel
- a Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at TU Dortmund University (IfADo) , Dortmund , Germany
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Boers D, Geelen L, Erbrink H, Smit LAM, Heederik D, Hooiveld M, Yzermans CJ, Huijbregts M, Wouters IM. The relation between modeled odor exposure from livestock farming and odor annoyance among neighboring residents. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2015; 89:521-30. [PMID: 26455911 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-015-1092-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2014] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Odor annoyance is an important environmental stressor for neighboring residents of livestock farms and may affect their quality of life and health. However, little is known about the relation between odor exposure due to livestock farming and odor annoyance. Even more, the relation between odor exposure and odor annoyance is rather complicated due to variable responses among individuals to comparable exposure levels and a large number of factors (such as age, gender, education) that may affect the relation. In this study, we (1) investigated the relation between modeled odor exposure and odor annoyance; (2) investigated whether other factors can affect this relation; and (3) compared our dose-response relation to a dose-response relation established in a previous study carried out in the Netherlands, more than 10 years ago, in order to investigate changes in odor perception and appreciation over time. METHODS We used data from 582 respondents who participated in a questionnaire survey among neighboring residents of livestock farms in the south of the Netherlands. Odor annoyance was established by two close-ended questions in a questionnaire; odor exposure was estimated using the Stacks dispersion model. RESULTS The results of our study indicate a statistically significant and positive relation between modeled odor exposure and reported odor annoyance from livestock farming (OR 1.92; 95 % CI 1.53-2.41). Furthermore, age, asthma, education and perceived air pollution in the environment are all related to odor annoyance, although they hardly affect the relation between estimated livestock odor exposure and reported odor annoyance. We also found relatively more odor annoyance reported among neighboring residents than in a previous study conducted in the Netherlands. CONCLUSIONS We found a strong relation between modeled odor exposure and odor annoyance. However, due to some uncertainties and small number of studies on this topic, further research and replication of results is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Boers
- Office of Environmental Health and Safety, Public Health Services Brabant/Zeeland, PO Box 3024, 5003 DA, Tilburg, The Netherlands.
| | - L Geelen
- Office of Environmental Health and Safety, Public Health Services Brabant/Zeeland, PO Box 3024, 5003 DA, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | | | - L A M Smit
- Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - D Heederik
- Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - M Hooiveld
- NIVEL, Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - C J Yzermans
- NIVEL, Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - M Huijbregts
- Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - I M Wouters
- Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Borsdorf H, Baldeweg S, Löper F, Höhnisch M, Petrich R, Mayer T. The correlation of odors in the environment with ion mobility spectra patterns. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s12127-014-0161-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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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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Egondi T, Kyobutungi C, Ng N, Muindi K, Oti S, van de Vijver S, Ettarh R, Rocklöv J. Community perceptions of air pollution and related health risks in Nairobi slums. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2013; 10:4851-68. [PMID: 24157509 PMCID: PMC3823347 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph10104851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2013] [Revised: 09/09/2013] [Accepted: 09/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Air pollution is among the leading global risks for mortality and responsible for increasing risk for chronic diseases. Community perceptions on exposure are critical in determining people's response and acceptance of related policies. Therefore, understanding people' perception is critical in informing the design of appropriate intervention measures. The aim of this paper was to establish levels and associations between perceived pollution and health risk perception among slum residents. A cross-sectional study of 5,317 individuals aged 35+ years was conducted in two slums of Nairobi. Association of perceived score and individual characteristics was assessed using linear regression. Spatial variation in the perceived levels was determined through hot spot analysis using ArcGIS. The average perceived air pollution level was higher among residents in Viwandani compared to those in Korogocho. Perceived air pollution level was positively associated with perceived health risks. The majority of respondents were exposed to air pollution in their place of work with 66% exposed to at least two sources of air pollution. Less than 20% of the respondents in both areas mentioned sources related to indoor pollution. The perceived air pollution level and related health risks in the study community were low among the residents indicating the need for promoting awareness on air pollution sources and related health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaddaeus Egondi
- African Population and Health Research Center, P.O. Box 10787, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; E-Mails: (C.K.); (K.M.); (S.O.); (S.V.)
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, Umeå SE-901 85, Sweden; E-Mails: (N.N.); (J.R.)
| | - Catherine Kyobutungi
- African Population and Health Research Center, P.O. Box 10787, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; E-Mails: (C.K.); (K.M.); (S.O.); (S.V.)
| | - Nawi Ng
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, Umeå SE-901 85, Sweden; E-Mails: (N.N.); (J.R.)
| | - Kanyiva Muindi
- African Population and Health Research Center, P.O. Box 10787, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; E-Mails: (C.K.); (K.M.); (S.O.); (S.V.)
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, Umeå SE-901 85, Sweden; E-Mails: (N.N.); (J.R.)
| | - Samuel Oti
- African Population and Health Research Center, P.O. Box 10787, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; E-Mails: (C.K.); (K.M.); (S.O.); (S.V.)
- Department of Global Health, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam 1100 DE, The Netherlands
| | - Steven van de Vijver
- African Population and Health Research Center, P.O. Box 10787, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; E-Mails: (C.K.); (K.M.); (S.O.); (S.V.)
- Department of Global Health, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam 1100 DE, The Netherlands
| | - Remare Ettarh
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; E-Mail:
| | - Joacim Rocklöv
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, Umeå SE-901 85, Sweden; E-Mails: (N.N.); (J.R.)
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Wing S, Horton RA, Rose KM. Air pollution from industrial swine operations and blood pressure of neighboring residents. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2013; 121:92-6. [PMID: 23111006 PMCID: PMC3553433 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1205109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2012] [Accepted: 10/18/2012] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Industrial swine operations emit odorant chemicals including ammonia, hydrogen sulfide (H2S), and volatile organic compounds. Malodor and pollutant concentrations have been associated with self-reported stress and altered mood in prior studies. OBJECTIVES We conducted a repeated-measures study of air pollution, stress, and blood pressure in neighbors of swine operations. METHODS For approximately 2 weeks, 101 nonsmoking adult volunteers living near industrial swine operations in 16 neighborhoods in eastern North Carolina sat outdoors for 10 min twice daily at preselected times. Afterward, they reported levels of hog odor on a 9-point scale and measured their blood pressure twice using an automated oscillometric device. During the same 2- to 3-week period, we measured ambient levels of H2S and PM10 at a central location in each neighborhood. Associations between systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP, respectively) and pollutant measures were estimated using fixed-effects (conditional) linear regression with adjustment for time of day. RESULTS PM10 showed little association with blood pressure. DBP [β (SE)] increased 0.23 (0.08) mmHg per unit of reported hog odor during the 10 min outdoors and 0.12 (0.08) mmHg per 1-ppb increase of H2S concentration in the same hour. SBP increased 0.10 (0.12) mmHg per odor unit and 0.29 (0.12) mmHg per 1-ppb increase of H2S in the same hour. Reported stress was strongly associated with BP; adjustment for stress reduced the odor-DBP association, but the H2S-SBP association changed little. CONCLUSIONS Like noise and other repetitive environmental stressors, malodors may be associated with acute blood pressure increases that could contribute to development of chronic hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Wing
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7400, USA.
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Hetherington L, Battershill J. Review of evidence for a toxicological mechanism of idiopathic environmental intolerance. Hum Exp Toxicol 2012; 32:3-17. [PMID: 23060407 DOI: 10.1177/0960327112457189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic environmental intolerance (IEI) is a medically unexplained disorder characterised by a wide variety of unspecific symptoms in different organ systems and attributed to nontoxic concentrations of chemicals and other environmental factors that are tolerated by the majority of individuals. Both exposure to chemicals and behavioural conditioning are considered as possible contributors to the development of IEI. However, owing to the heterogeneity of the condition, it is difficult to separate the toxicological, physiological and psychological aspects of IEI. Here, we review the evidence for postulated toxicologically mediated mechanisms for IEI. Available data do not support either a classical receptor-mediated or an idiosyncratic toxicological mechanism. Furthermore, if there were convincing evidence for a psychological cause for many patients with IEI, then this would suggest that the priority for the future is the development of psychological treatments for IEI. Finally, we advocate genome wide screening of IEI patients to elucidate genotypic features of the condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lh Hetherington
- General Toxicology Group, Toxicology Department, Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Health Protection Agency, Didcot, Oxon, UK.
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Juran SA, van Thriel C, Kleinbeck S, Schäper M, Falkenstein M, Iregren A, Johanson G. Neurobehavioral performance in human volunteers during inhalation exposure to the unpleasant local irritant cyclohexylamine. Neurotoxicology 2012; 33:1180-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2012.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2012] [Revised: 06/29/2012] [Accepted: 06/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Claeson AS, Lidén E, Nordin M, Nordin S. The role of perceived pollution and health risk perception in annoyance and health symptoms: a population-based study of odorous air pollution. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2012; 86:367-74. [PMID: 22526088 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-012-0770-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2011] [Accepted: 04/02/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Health effects associated with air pollution at exposure levels below toxicity may not be directly related to level of exposure, but rather mediated by perception of the air pollution and by top-down processing (e.g., beliefs that the exposure is hazardous). The aim of the study was to test a model that describes interrelations between odorous air pollution at non-toxic exposure levels, perceived pollution, health risk perception, annoyance and health symptoms. METHODS A population-based questionnaire study was conducted in a Swedish community of residents living near a biofuel facility that emitted odorous substances. Individuals aged 18-75 years were selected at random for participation (n = 1,118); 722 (65 %) agreed to participate. Path analyses were performed to test the validity of the model. RESULTS The data support a model proposing that exposure level does not directly influence annoyance and symptoms, and that these relations instead are mediated by perceived pollution and health risk perception. CONCLUSIONS Perceived pollution and health risk perception play important roles in understanding and predicting environmentally induced annoyance and health symptoms in odorous environments at non-toxic levels of exposure.
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Odor thresholds and breathing changes of human volunteers as consequences of sulphur dioxide exposure considering individual factors. Saf Health Work 2011; 2:355-64. [PMID: 22953220 PMCID: PMC3430915 DOI: 10.5491/shaw.2011.2.4.355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2011] [Revised: 08/26/2011] [Accepted: 10/04/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Though sulfur dioxide (SO2) is used widely at workplaces, itseffects on humans are not known. Thresholds are reported without reference to gender or age and occupational exposure limits are basedon effects on lung functioning,although localized effects in the upper airways can be expected.This study's aim is to determine thresholds with respect to age and gender and suggests a new approach to risk assessment using breathing reflexes presumably triggered by trigeminal receptors in the upper airways. Methods Odor thresholds were determined by the ascending method of limits in groups stratified by age and gender.Subjects rated intensities of different olfactory and trigeminal perceptions at different concentrations of SO2. During the presentation of the concentrations, breathing movements were measured by respiratory inductive plethysmography. Results Neither age nor gender effects were observed for odor threshold. Only ratings of nasal irritation were influenced bygender. A benchmark dose analysis on relative respiratory depth revealed a 10%-deviation from baseline at about 25.27 mg/m3. Conclusion The proposed new approach to risk assessment appearsto be sustainable. We discuss whether a 10%-deviation of breathingdepth is relevant.
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Aatamila M, Verkasalo PK, Korhonen MJ, Suominen AL, Hirvonen MR, Viluksela MK, Nevalainen A. Odour annoyance and physical symptoms among residents living near waste treatment centres. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2011; 111:164-170. [PMID: 21130986 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2010.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2010] [Revised: 11/04/2010] [Accepted: 11/15/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Waste treatment processes produce odours and biological emissions to the environment, but their health effects are controversial. The aim of our study was to assess odour-associated self-reported physical symptoms among residents living near waste treatment centres. The study was conducted in the surroundings of five large-scale Finnish waste treatment centres with composting plants. In 2006, 1142 randomly selected residents living within 1.5, 3.0 and 5.0 km of these centres were interviewed by telephone. A questionnaire with 102 items asked about respondent's personal characteristics, odour exposure and symptoms during the preceding 12 months. Physical symptoms were analysed by distance to the waste treatment centre and by the respondent's perception and annoyance of waste treatment odour. The residents who were classified as "annoyed of the odour" reported following physical symptoms more than the others did: unusual shortness of breath (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.0-2.2), eye irritation (1.5, 1.1-2.1), hoarseness/dry throat (1.5, 1.1-2.0), toothache (1.4, 1.0-2.1), unusual tiredness (1.5, 1.1-2.0), fever/shivering (1.7, 1.1-2.5), joint pain (1.5, 1.1-2.1) and muscular pain (1.5, 1.1-2.0). Moreover, the ORs for almost all other physical symptoms were elevated among the annoyed respondents. Reported odour annoyance near the waste treatment centres showed an association with many physical symptoms among residents living in the neighbouring areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjaleena Aatamila
- National Institute for Health and Welfare, Department of Environmental Health, P.O. Box 95, FI-70701 Kuopio, Finland.
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Monsé C, Broding HC, Hoffmeyer F, Jettkant B, Berresheim H, Brüning T, Bünger J, Sucker K. Use of a calibration gas generator for irritation threshold assessment and as supplement of dynamic dilution olfactometry. Chem Senses 2010; 35:523-30. [PMID: 20507921 DOI: 10.1093/chemse/bjq046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human odor and mucosal membrane irritation thresholds are used as criteria for assessing air quality in occupational and environmental settings. Unfortunately, reported threshold values still differ by several orders of magnitude rendering most standard compilations of little practical utility. Thus, in view of the need to repeat odor threshold measurements with a reliable methodology, a new technical approach based on original equipment manufacturer integrated solutions is presented. To test applicability, a calibration gas generator was used to continuously generate a fixed odor vapor concentration. Different dilution steps were realized by coupling to a purchasable olfactometer. Comparison with the "standard," that is, odor stimulus supply via sample bags revealed good correspondence. As a second step, the calibration gas generator was used to generate rapid changes in stimulus concentration between consecutive trials. Irritation thresholds were measured with an ascending series of ammonia concentrations generated from an aqueous solution. The obtained thresholds lay within the range previously reported. The introduced technology enables quick and reliable odor stimulus generation and provides flexibility in choosing the optimal start concentration, the step-size between dilutions, and the range of stimulus concentrations. Errors from usage of rotameters or sample bags can be avoided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Monsé
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-University Bochum (IPA), Bürkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, Bochum, Germany.
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