Air pollution: impact and prevention

Exploring the Cellular Impact of Size-Segregated Cigarette Aerosols: Insights into Indoor Particulate Matter Toxicity and Potential Therapeutic Interventions

Exposure to anthropogenic aerosols has been associated with a variety of adverse health effects, increased morbidity, and premature death. Although cigarette smoke poses one of the most significant public health threats, the cellular toxicity of particulate matter contained in cigarette smoke has not been systematically interrogated in a size-segregated manner. In this study, we employed a refined particle size classification to collect cigarette aerosols, enabling a comprehensive assessment and comparison of the impacts exerted by cigarette aerosol extract (CAE) on SH-SY5Y, HEK293T, and A549 cells. Exposure to CAE reduced cell viability in a dose-dependent manner, with organic components having a greater impact and SH-SY5Y cells displaying lower tolerance compared to HEK293T and A549 cells. Moreover, CAE was found to cause increased oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and increased levels of apoptosis, pyroptosis, and autophagy, leading to increased cell death. Furthermore, we found that rutin, a phytocompound with antioxidant potential, could reduce intracellular reactive oxygen species and protect against CAE-triggered cell death. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of antioxidant drugs in mitigating the adverse effects of cigarette aerosol exposure for better public health outcomes.

Relationship Between Air Pollutants and the Incidence of Epistaxis in Yangzhou

Objectives: This project aims to explore the relationship between the air quality index (AQI), the concentration of 6 air pollutants, and the incidence of epistaxis in Yangzhou. Also, to provide reference information for the prevention and treatment of epistaxis. Methods: Data of patients with epistaxis admitted to the Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University from January 2017 to December 2021 were collected. In addition, the local AQI and the concentrations of 6 air pollutants, namely particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (O3), were analyzed at the time of onset. Furthermore, the correlation with the incidence of epistaxis has been analyzed. Results: From 2017 to 2021, there were 24,721 patients with epistaxis aged from 0 to 17 years old while male patients were more than females. The incidence was higher in April, May, and June. There was a statistically significant difference in the number of daily epistaxis in different months and under AQI conditions (P < .05). Spearman's correlation analysis showed that there was a positive correlation between the number of daily epistaxis and the concentrations of AQI, CO, NO2, O3, PM2.5, PM10, and SO2 in Yangzhou, in which O3, PM10, and SO2 were highly correlated with the average number of daily epistaxis, and there was no obvious time lag effect of air pollutants on epistaxis. Conclusion: Epistaxis in the Yangzhou area is more common in males, mostly occurs in 0 to 17 years old, with seasonal. There was also a positive correlation between the incidence of epistaxis and air pollutants in Yangzhou. Therefore, by reducing the AQI index in daily life, and reducing the concentration of environmental pollutants in the air, the occurrence of epistaxis could be prevented and reduced to a certain extent.

Influence of Cigarette Aerosol in Alpha-Synuclein Oligomerization and Cell Viability in SH-SY5Y: Implications for Parkinson's Disease

Although cigarette aerosol exposure is associated with various adverse health issues, its impact on Parkinson's disease (PD) remains elusive. Here, we investigated the effect of cigarette aerosol extract (CAE) on SH-SY5Y cells for the first time, both with and without α-synuclein (α-Syn) overexpression. We found that α-Syn aggravates CAE-induced cell death, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Fluorescence cross-correlation spectroscopy (FCCS) revealed a dual distribution of α-Syn within the cells, with homogeneous regions indicative of monomeric α-Syn and punctated regions, suggesting the formation of oligomers. Moreover, we observed colocalization of α-Syn oligomers with lysosomes along with a reduction in autophagy activity. These findings suggest that α-Syn overexpression exacerbates CAE-induced intracellular cytotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and autophagy dysregulation, leading to elevated cell mortality. Our findings provide new insights into the pathogenic mechanisms linking exposure to cigarette aerosols with neurodegenerative diseases.

Association between short-term exposure to ambient air pollution and upper respiratory tract infection in Kunshan

The health effects of air pollution have become a major public health problem. Studies on the relationship between short-term exposure to air pollutants and upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) related clinic visits and expenditures were scarce. From January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2021, we included all the URTI cases that turned to 11 public hospitals in Kunshan, and summarized individual medical cost. Daily meteorological factors and 24-h mean concentrations of four common air pollutants, including particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) and 10 μm (PM10), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), were consecutively recorded. Generalized additive regression model was adopted to quantify the associations between each air pollutant and the daily clinic visits of URTI cases. We further calculated attributable number (AN) and attributable fraction, and performed sensitivity analysis by gender, age, and season. A total of 934,180 cases were retrieved during the study period. PM2.5, PM10, SO2, and NO2 showed significant associations with hospital visits and expenditures due to URTI. Relative risks for them were 1.065 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.055, 1.076), 1.045 (95% CI 1.037, 1.052), 1.098 (95% CI 1.038, 1.163), and 1.098 (95% CI 1.085, 1.111) on lag 0-5 days, respectively. Thirty-one thousand four hundred fifty-five (95% CI 27,457, 35,436) cases could be ascribed to increased NO2 and accounted for 3.37% (95% CI 2.94%, 3.79%) of all clinic visits. Sensitivity analyses indicated that the effects of air pollution were generally consistent for male and female. PM2.5, PM10, and NO2 had stronger associations among people aged ≤ 18 years, followed by those aged 19-64 years and ≥ 65 years. The association strengths of air pollution varied seasonally. Short-term exposure to ambient air pollutants had significant associations with clinic visits and expenditures owing to URTI. Children and adolescents appeared to be more susceptible to adverse health effects of air pollution. NO2 may be a priority when formulating pollution control measures.

Particulate Matter Air Pollution is a Significant Risk Factor for Cardiovascular Disease

Air pollution is responsible worldwide for 9-12 million deaths annually. The major contributor to air pollution is particulate matter ≤2.5 µg per cubic meter of air (PM2.5) from vehicles, industrial emissions, and wildfire smoke. United States ambient air standards recommend annual average PM2.5 concentrations of ≤12 μg/m³ while European standards allow an average annual PM2.5 concentration of ≤20 μg/m3. However, significant PM2.5 cardiovascular and pulmonary health risks exist below these concentrations. Chronic PM2.5 exposure significantly increases major cardiovascular and pulmonary event risks in Americans by 8 to more than 20% for each 10-μg/m3 increase in PM2.5. PM2.5-induced increases in lipid peroxidation, induction of vascular inflammation and endothelial cell injury initiate and propagate respiratory diseases, coronary and carotid atherosclerosis. PM2.5 can cause atherosclerotic vascular plaque rupture and myocardial infarction and stroke by activating metalloproteinases. This article discusses PM2.5 effects on the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems, specific PM2.5 pathophysiologic mechanisms contributing to cardiopulmonary disease, and preventive measures to limit the cardiovascular and pulmonary effects of PM2.5.

Implications of Exposure to Air Pollution on Male Reproduction: The Role of Oxidative Stress

Air pollution, either from indoor (household) or outdoor (ambient) sources, occurs when there is presence of respirable particles in the form of chemical, physical, or biological agents that modify the natural features of the atmosphere or environment. Today, almost 2.4 billion people are exposed to hazardous levels of indoor pollution, while 99% of the global population breathes air pollutants that exceed the World Health Organization guideline limits. It is not surprising that air pollution is the world's leading environmental cause of diseases and contributes greatly to the global burden of diseases. Upon entry, air pollutants can cause an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by undergoing oxidation to generate quinones, which further act as oxidizing agents to yield more ROS. Excessive production of ROS can cause oxidative stress, induce lipid peroxidation, enhance the binding of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) to their receptors, or bind to PAH to cause DNA strand breaks. The continuous and prolonged exposure to air pollutants is associated with the development or exacerbation of pathologies such as acute or chronic respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative and skin diseases, and even reduced fertility potential. Males and females contribute to infertility equally, and exposure to air pollutants can negatively affect reproduction. In this review, emphasis will be placed on the implications of exposure to air pollutants on male fertility potential, bringing to light its effects on semen parameters (basic and advanced) and male sexual health. This study will also touch on the clinical implications of air pollution on male reproduction while highlighting the role of oxidative stress.

A cross-sectional study of inequalities in digital air pollution information access and exposure reducing behavior uptake in the UK

Air pollution is a pervasive global environmental challenge that presents substantial and differential risk across populations. Individual-level pollution exposure is a function of varying factors, including but not limited to geographic location, proximity to point sources, ventilation, and behavioral patterns. Mounting evidence suggests that informational interventions can play a substantial role in mediating exposures for specific population subgroups and reduce downstream adverse health outcomes. The literature has yet to address whether access to air quality information is sociodemographically stratified, and whether such access correlates with increased uptake of exposure reducing behaviors at the population level. This study represents a first step in answering these questions by analysing responses from the "Clean Air Public Insight Tracker" nationally representative survey (n = 1,993) of the UK population, administered by UK charity Global Action Plan. Results from logistic regression and zero-inflated negative binomial models estimate 28% of the population have accessed air pollution information, while the odds of younger individuals (ages 18-36), men, and non-white individuals of accessing digitally available air quality information are greater that those outside these categories. Additionally, the odds of behavior uptake is greater if an individual accesses digital information sources like the internet, mobile apps or social media, has a higher education qualification or cares for someone with a health condition. These findings contribute to the growing literature surrounding which population groups engage with environmental and health-relevant information channels, and what connects engagement with air quality channels and uptake of exposure reducing behaviors. These results reinforce the need for additional research around air pollution informational alerts and exploring causal links between specific exposure reducing behaviours and improved health outcomes. It can also help inform the flow of resources and targeting of informational campaigns towards sociodemographic groups that are less likely to engage with air quality information.

Circulating Exosomes and Ambient Air Pollution Exposure in COPD

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by progressive obstruction of airways due to chronic inflammation. Both genetic and environmental components are risk factors for COPD. The most common cause of COPD is smoking. However, evidence suggests that 17% to 38% of COPD patients are nonsmokers, so other factors like air pollution may also play a role.

Objective

The relationship between serum exosomes and exposure to particulate matter (PM) <2.5 and 10 micrometers (µm) in the residing environment of COPD patients and healthy groups was investigated. The correlation between inflammatory cytokine levels with exosome count was also studied.

Methods

Peripheral blood samples were taken from 20 COPD patients without a smoking history or a family history of COPD, along with 20 nonsmoker healthy controls. The serum exosomes were counted by flow cytometry using a CD81 marker. The exposure to PM2.5 and PM10 was measured in daily, weekly, and monthly intervals based on the longitudinal measurements of the monitoring stations, and the correlation between exosome count and air pollutants was analyzed.

Results

The serum CD81+ exosome count in COPD patients was significantly elevated compared to the healthy controls and this was correlated with daily PM10 (P-value=0.02) and monthly PM2.5 (P-value=0.02) exposure. Although interferon-gamma levels of COPD patients were higher than healthy controls, there was no correlation between exosome count and cytokine level.

Conclusions

Considering the significant relationship between air pollutants and the count of serum exosomes demonstrated in the present study, air pollution might be a considerable risk factor in the progression of airway inflammation.

Air pollution induces pyroptosis of human monocytes through activation of inflammasomes and Caspase-3-dependent pathways

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is one of the most serious threats for our planet. Despite a growing public awareness of the harmful effects of air pollution on human health, the specific influence of particulate matter (PM) on human immune cells remains poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the effect of PM on peripheral blood monocytes in vitro. Monocytes from healthy donors (HD) were exposed to two types of PM: NIST (SRM 1648a, standard urban particulate matter from the US National Institute for Standards and Technology) and LAP (SRM 1648a with the organic fraction removed). The exposure to PM-induced mitochondrial ROS production followed by the decrease of mitochondrial membrane potential and activation of apoptotic protease activating factor 1 (Apaf-1), Caspase-9, and Caspase-3, leading to the cleavage of Gasdermin E (GSDME), and initiation of pyroptosis. Further analysis showed a simultaneous PM-dependent activation of inflammasomes, including NLRP3 (nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor pyrin domain containing 3) and Caspase-1, followed by cleavage of Gasdermin D (GSDMD) and secretion of IL-1β. These observations suggest that PM-treated monocytes die by pyroptosis activated by two parallel signaling pathways, related to the inorganic and organic PM components. The release of IL-1β and expression of danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) by pyroptotic cells further activated the remnant viable monocytes to produce inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8) and protected them from death induced by the second challenge with PM.In summary, our report shows that PM exposure significantly impacts monocyte function and induces their death by pyroptosis. Our observations indicate that the composition of PM plays a crucial role in this process-the inorganic fraction of PM is responsible for the induction of the Caspase-3-dependent pyroptotic pathway. At the same time, the canonical inflammasome path is activated by the organic components of PM, including LPS (Lipopolysaccharide/endotoxin). PM-induced pyroptosis of human monocytes. Particulate matter (PM) treatment affects monocytes viability already after 15 min of their exposure to NIST or LAP in vitro. The remnant viable monocytes in response to danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) release pro-inflammatory cytokines and activate Th1 and Th17 cells. The mechanism of PM-induced cell death includes the increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production followed by collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), activation of Apaf-1, Caspase-9 and Caspase-3, leading to activation of Caspase-3-dependent pyroptotic pathway, where Caspase-3 cleaves Gasdermin E (GSDME) to produce a N-terminal fragment responsible for the switch from apoptosis to pyroptosis. At the same time, PM activates the canonical inflammasome pathway, where activated Caspase-1 cleaves the cytosolic Gasdermin D (GSDMD) to produce N-terminal domain allowing IL-1β secretion. As a result, PM-treated monocytes die by pyroptosis activated by two parallel pathways-Caspase-3-dependent pathway related to the inorganic fraction of PM and the canonical inflammasome pathway dependent on the organic components of PM.

Effects of Oscillation Amplitude Variations on QCM Response to Microspheres of Different Sizes

Suspended particulate matter (PMx) is one of the most important environmental pollutants. Miniaturized sensors capable of measuring and analyzing PMx are crucial in environmental research fields. The quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) is one of the most well-known sensors that could be used to monitor PMx. In general, in environmental pollution science, PMx is divided into two main categories correlated to particle diameter (e.g., PM < 2.5 µm and PM < 10 µm). QCM-based systems are capable of measuring this range of particles, but there is an important issue that limits the application. In fact, if particles with different diameters are collected on QCM electrodes, the response will be a result of the total mass of particles; there are no simple methods to discriminate the mass of the two categories without the use of a filter or manipulation during sampling. The QCM response depends on particle dimensions, fundamental resonant frequency, the amplitude of oscillation, and system dissipation properties. In this paper, we study the effects of oscillation amplitude variations and fundamental frequency (10, 5, and 2.5 MHz) values on the response, when particle matter with different sizes (2 µm and 10 µm) is deposited on the electrodes. The results showed that the 10 MHz QCM was not capable of detecting the 10 µm particles, and its response was not influenced by oscillation amplitude. On the other hand, the 2.5 MHz QCM detected the diameters of both particles, but only if a low amplitude value was used.

Public engagement with air quality data: using health behaviour change theory to support exposure-minimising behaviours

Exposure to air pollution prematurely kills 7 million people globally every year. Policy measures designed to reduce emissions of pollutants, improve ambient air and consequently reduce health impacts, can be effective, but are generally slow to generate change. Individual actions can therefore supplement policy measures and more immediately reduce people's exposure to air pollution. Air quality indices (AQI) are used globally (though not universally) to translate complex air quality data into a single unitless metric, which can be paired with advice to encourage behaviour change. Here we explore, with reference to health behaviour theories, why these are frequently insufficient to instigate individual change. We examine the health behaviour theoretical steps linking air quality data with reduced air pollution exposure and (consequently) improved public health, arguing that a combination of more 'personalised' air quality data and greater public engagement with these data will together better support individual action. Based on this, we present a novel framework, which, when used to shape air quality interventions, has the potential to yield more effective and sustainable interventions to reduce individual exposures and thus reduce the global public health burden of air pollution.

Determinants Analysis Regarding Household Chemical Indoor Pollution

Indoor household pollution is not yet sufficiently studied in the general population. Over 4 million people die prematurely every year due to air pollution in households. This study aimed to propose quantitative data research through the administration of a KAP (Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices) Survey Questionnaire. This cross-sectional study administered questionnaires to adults from the metropolitan city of Naples (Italy). Three Multiple Linear Regression Analyses (MLRA) were developed, including Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behavior regarding household chemical air pollution and the related risks. One thousand six hundred seventy subjects received a questionnaire to be filled out and collected anonymously. The mean age of the sample was 44.68 years, ranging from 21-78 years. Most of the people interviewed (76.13%) had good attitudes toward house cleaning, and 56.69% stated paying attention to cleaning products. Results of the regression analysis indicated that positive attitudes were significantly higher among subjects who graduated, with older age, male and non-smokers, but they were correlated with lower knowledge. In conclusion, a behavioral and attitudinal program targeted those with knowledge, such as younger subjects with high educational levels, but do not engage in correct practices towards household indoor chemical pollution.

The Impact of Fintech Development on Air Pollution

Over the past 40 years of reform and opening-up, China has achieved rapid economic and technological growth at the cost of severe air pollution. The emerging Fintech, as the result of financial institutions' adapting to the latest digital technology, might be a solution to reduce air pollution. This paper investigates the impact of Fintech development on air pollution using a two-factor fixed effects model based on data for prefecture-level cities in China from 2011 to 2017. The findings show that Fintech development can effectively reduce air pollution emissions, and this conclusion is proved to be robust throughout a series of tests. The mechanism analysis shows that Fintech reduces air pollution by promoting digital finance and green innovation.

The effect of short-term air pollutants exposure on outpatient admission for blepharitis in Shanghai, China: a hospital-based study

Blepharitis is a very common ophthalmologic disease, and few studies have examined if air pollutants contribute to the risk of blepharitis. We investigated the presence of any potential correlation between exposure to air pollution and outpatient admission for blepharitis in Shanghai, China. Data on daily outpatient admission for blepharitis were collected from January 2017 to July 2022. Air pollution and meteorological data were acquired from the Shanghai Environmental Protection Agency. Using the distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM) we investigated the relationship between air pollutants and blepharitis. Seasonal stratified analysis was carried out. In total, 10,681 blepharitis patients were recruited. In the single-pollutant model, a 10 μg/m³ increase in particulate matter with < 2.5 μm PM_2.5 and 10 μm PM₁₀ along with sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and 100 μg/m³ increase in carbon monoxide (CO) was significantly associated with outpatient visits for blepharitis. In the multi-pollutant model, a 10 μg/m³ increase in ozone (O₃) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and a 100 μg/m³ increase in carbon monoxide (CO) was significantly associated with outpatient visits for blepharitis. Moreover, there was an obvious relationship between blepharitis and PM_2.5 and O₃ in the summers and blepharitis and PM₁₀, NO₂, and SO₂ during the winters. Exposure to short-term air pollution increases the risk of blepharitis outpatient visits in Shanghai, China.

[Physical effects of atmospheric pollution unconsciously perceived by citizenship, in the metropolitan area of Monterrey city, Nuevo León, Mexico]

OBJECTIVE

Perceive the air pollution atmospheric by fine particles (PM25) in the human organism on the Metropolitan Urban Area of Monterrey [MUAM], Nuevo León; considering its effects and the sensorial detection capability by each subject's perception.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This research was made with 504 participating subjects exposed to the effects of the contaminants mentioned on the MUAM, Nuevo León, considering the background of each subject and their unconscious perception, in order to avoid the possible bias in the result.

RESULTS

It was found that the present levels of environment pollution by fine particles affected on different ways the healthy participant subjects than the ones reported with any susceptibility or visual affection and/or respiratory illness.

DISCUSSION

It was determined that the current levels of environment contaminants in the MUAM have reached degrees of affectation in organisms of people with susceptibility or problems either visual or respiratory, when they carry out their activities in external environments.

Air Pollution Management: A Multivariate Analysis of Citizens' Perspectives and Their Willingness to Use Greener Forms of Transportation

The present research aims to understand how air pollution can be managed by public authorities, both central and local, starting from citizens' perspectives on the issue. Air quality is a real problem, affecting people at multiple levels. Thus, we introduced the following variables to better understand the problem and to be able to formulate theoretical and practical implications for public management: the involvement of authorities in reducing air pollution; the involvement of citizens in reducing air pollution; financial incentives for citizens and companies for adopting behaviors that reduce air pollution; green investments in the city; the impact of air pollution on the community; and the need for independent bodies to monitor air pollution. The research methodology used is partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) and the required data were gathered from issuing a survey to citizens from the most important cities in Romania where pollution poses important challenges for the community and for the authorities. The results are useful to public managers in local and central institutions for creating better strategies meant to reduce air pollution, increase air quality, and improve the quality of the citizens' lives.

Autoantibodies and autoimmune disorders in SARS-CoV-2 infection: pathogenicity and immune regulation

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease associated with the respiratory system caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The aim of this review article is to establish an understanding about the relationship between autoimmune conditions and COVID-19 infections. Although majority of the population have been protected with vaccines against this virus, there is yet a successful curative medication for this disease. The use of autoimmune medications has been widely considered to control the infection, thus postulating possible relationships between COVID-19 and autoimmune diseases. Several studies have suggested the correlation between autoantibodies detected in patients and the severity of the COVID-19 disease. Studies have indicated that the SARS-CoV-2 virus can disrupt the self-tolerance mechanism of the immune system, thus triggering autoimmune conditions. This review discusses the current scenario and future prospects of promising therapeutic strategies that may be employed to regulate such autoimmune conditions.

Association of fine particulate matter to allergic rhinitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective:

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has become a major concern for global environmental health, as it can lead to inflammatory diseases, such as allergic rhinitis (AR) and cause a high burden of disease. The aim of this study is to carry out a systematic review and meta-analysis based on available research to present the link between ambient PM2.5 and the risk of AR in global populations. Methods: We systematically searched six databases from their inception to 30 November 2020. An expanded literature search was carried out using the references of the included studies. Data extraction was performed using Excel 2016 software, and meta-analysis and heterogeneity analysis were performed using Review Manager 5.3 software. Results: A total of 14 out of 1361 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The quality assessment showed these studies to be of high quality. Seven out of 14 studies reported a relationship between ambient PM2.5 and AR through Odds ratios (OR, ORoverall = 1.14, 95% CI [1.00, 1.29]), but with a non-significant statistical overall test result (the test result for overall effect was Z = 1.98, p =.05). For subgroups by ages and regions, ORChildren = 1.08 (95% CI [1.04, 1.13]), and OROther ages = 1.50 (95% CI [1.24, 1.81]. The differences between age-related subgroups were significant (p <.01). Meanwhile, the relationship between PM2.5 and the risk of AR in Asia was significant (ORAsia = 1.20, 95% CI [1.01, 1.44], p =.001); whereas the association studies from outside of Asia have reported the relationship as non-significant (OROut-Asia = 1.04, 95% CI [0.82, 1.31], p =.76). Conclusion: There are reports that recognize that the exposure to PM2.5 may contribute to the development of AR. An international framework with a whole-of-society approach, including air quality control efforts and well-being health promotion among AR patients and at-risk populations, should be implemented.

Enhanced Antioxidant, Hyaluronidase, and Collagenase Inhibitory Activities of Glutinous Rice Husk Extract by Aqueous Enzymatic Extraction

In this research, we aimed to compare the biological activities related to cosmeceutical applications of glutinous rice husk extracted by aqueous enzymatic extraction (AEE) and conventional solvent extraction. Cellulase enzymes were used to assist the extraction process. The vanillic and ferulic acid contents of each extract were investigated by high-performance liquid chromatography, and their antioxidant and anti-aging activities were investigated by spectrophotometric methods. The irritation effects of each extract were investigated by the hen’s egg test on chorioallantoic membrane. The rice husk extract from AEE using 0.5% w/w of cellulase (CE0.5) contained the significantly highest content of vanillic and ferulic acid (p < 0.05), which were responsible for its biological activities. CE0.5 was the most potent antioxidant via radical scavenging activities, and possessed the most potent anti-skin wrinkle effect via collagenase inhibition. Aside from the superior biological activities, the rice husk extracts from AEE were safer than those from solvent extraction, even when 95% v/v ethanol was used. Therefore, AEE is suggested as a green extraction method that can be used instead of the traditional solvent extraction technique given its higher yield and high quality of bioactive compounds. Additionally, CE0.5 is proposed as a potential source of natural antioxidants and anti-aging properties for further development of anti-wrinkle products.

Characteristics of airborne particles retained on conifer needles across China in winter and preliminary evaluation of the capacity of trees in haze mitigation

To fully understand the characteristics of particulate matter (PM) retained on plant leaves (PMR) and the effect of vegetation on haze on a large spatial scale, we investigated needle samples collected from 78 parks and campuses in 31 cities (30 provincial cities) of China and developed a comprehensive method to characterise PMR. Both the PMR load (including water-insoluble particulate matter (WIPM), water-soluble inorganic ions (WSIS) and water-soluble organic matter (WSOM)), with a mean value of 554 ± 345 mg m^-2 leaf area, and component profiles of PMR showed obvious spatial variation across the cities. Though haze pollution levels vary greatly among the 31 cities, the PM retention capacity of needles does not depend on haze level because PMR generally reaches saturation before precipitation in winter. The water-soluble component (WSC, the sum of WSIS and WSOM) accounted for 52.3% of PMR on average, among which WSIS and WSOM contributed 21.4% and 30.9% to PMR, respectively. The dominant ions of WSIS in PMR in the cities were Ca²⁺, K⁺ and NO₃^-, indicating that raised dust, biomass combustion and traffic exhaust are significant sources of PM in China. Compared with previous reports, the particle size distributions of PMR and PM across China were consistent, with fine PM (PM_2.5) constituting a substantial proportion (43.8 ± 17.0%) of PMR. These results prove that trees can effectively remove fine particles from the air, thereby reducing human exposure to inhalable PM. We proposed a method to estimate the annual amount of PMR on Cedrus deodara, with an average value of 11.9 ± 9.6 t km^-2 canopy yr^-1 in China. Compared with the load of dust fall (atmospheric particles naturally falling on the ground, average of 138 ± 164 t km^-2 land area yr^-1 in China), we conclude that trees play a significant role in mitigating haze pollution.

Social status and susceptibility to wildfire smoke among outdoor-housed female rhesus monkeys: A natural experiment

Introduction

Wildfire smoke (WFS) exposure is a growing threat to human health, and lower socioeconomic position (SEP) has been shown to increase pollution susceptibility. Studies of SEP-related susceptibility, however, are often compromised due to spatial confounding between lower-SEP and pollution. Here we examine outdoor-housed nonhuman primates, living in natural social hierarchy in a common location, born during years of high vs. low WFS, to examine the separate and combined effects of WFS and social rank, an analog to SEP, on lung and immune function.

Methods

Twenty-one females were born during extreme WFS events in summer 2008; 22 were born in summer 2009, during low WFS. Pulmonary function and circulating cytokines were measured three years later, in adolescence. We estimated fine particulate (PM_2.5) and ozone exposures during each animal's first 90 days and three years of age using regulatory data. Early-life social status was estimated using maternal rank at birth, as rank in females is relatively stable throughout life, and closely approximates mother's rank. We tested associations among WFS exposure, rank, and endpoints using linear regression and ANOVA.

Results

Higher WFS exposure in infancy was, on average, associated with lower functional residual capacity (FRC), residual volume (RV), tissue compliance (Ct), and IL-8 secretion in adolescence. Higher social rank conferred significantly higher expiratory reserve volume (ERV) and functional residual capacity (FRC) solely among those born in the high-WFS year (2008). Differences in effects of rank between years were not significant after adjustment for multiple comparisons.

Conclusions

Exposure to WFS in infancy generally conferred lower adolescent respiratory volumes and inflammatory cytokines. Higher rank conferred higher respiratory volumes only among females born during WFS, suggesting the possibility that the health benefits of rank may be more apparent under environmental challenge.

Remediation of atmospheric sulfur and ammonia by wetland plants: development of a study method

In the context of S and N pollutant remediation, this study aimed to develop a methodology to test the ability of wetland plants to reduce atmospheric pollution by S and N. A methodology using ³⁴S and ¹⁵N-labeled Sinapsis alba compost and five species (trap plants) used to fix volatile compounds was developed. 18.66% of ³⁴S and 40.63% of ¹⁵N produced by Sinapsis alba compost, equivalent to 67 mg of S and 1611 mg of N, were recovered in trap plants, a negligible proportion of the labeling was found in the culture substrate. ³⁴S and ¹⁵N atom% excess were two to ten times higher in leaves than in roots. Agrostis stolonifera, Symphytum officinale, and Lythrum salicaria were more efficient to use atmospheric inorganic sources of S and N than Mentha aquatica and Carex riparia. A low concentration of sulfate in the leaf laminas, a high specific leaf area, and a low leaf dry mass content could represent trait patterns that explain higher abilities to fix pollutants. This study confirms that plants can be used to remediate inorganic atmospheric pollution and highlights the importance of plant screening for this environmental function.Novelty statementThe removal efficiency of botanical biofiltration is well-documented for Volatile Organic pollutants, but little is known concerning Volatile Inorganic pollutants, such as SO₂ and NH₃ which can also constitute plant nutrients.We developed a methodology based on the use of ³⁴S and ¹⁵N-labeled mustard compost to study the ability of wetland plant species to fix volatile N and S pollutants. This methodology was effective as 19% of ³⁴S and 41% of ¹⁵N lost by mustard compost were recovered in trap plants. Among the species used as "trap plants" Agrostis stolonifera, Symphytum officinale, and Lythrum salicaria appeared more efficient to use atmospheric inorganic sources of S and N than Mentha aquatica and Carex riparia.

Effect of PM2.5 Levels on Respiratory Pediatric ED Visits in a Semi-Urban Greek Peninsula

Ambient air pollution accounts for an estimated 4.2 million deaths worldwide. Particulate matter (PM)_2.5 particles are believed to be the most harmful, as when inhaled they can penetrate deep into the lungs. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between PM_2.5 daily air concentrations and pediatric emergency department (ED) visits for respiratory diseases in a Greek suburban area. All pediatric ED visits for asthma-, pneumonia- and upper respiratory infection (URI)-related complaints were recorded during the one-year period. The 24-h PM_2.5 air pollution data were prospectively collected from twelve fully automated air quality monitoring stations. The mean annual concentration of PM_2.5 was 30.03 μg/m³ (World Health Organization (WHO) Air Quality Guidelines (AQG) Annual mean concentration: 10 μg/m³). PM_2.5 levels rose above the WHO Air Quality Guidelines (AQG) 24-h concentrations (25 μg/m³)), 178 times (48.6% of the study period). When PM_2.5 levels were above the daily limit, an increase of 32.44% (p < 0.001) was observed in daily pediatric ED visits for respiratory diseases and the increase was much higher during spring (21.19%, p = 0.018). A 32% (p < 0.001) increase was observed in URI-related visits, when PM_2.5 levels were ≥25 μg/m³, compared to the mean daily visits when PM_2.5 levels were <25 μg/m³. Air pollution levels were associated with increased pediatric ED visits for respiratory-related diseases.

The Acute Effect of Diesel Exhaust Particles and Different Fractions Exposure on Blood Coagulation Function in Mice

The toxicity and widespread exposure opportunity of diesel exhaust particles (DEP) has aroused public health concerns. This study aimed to investigate the acute effect of DEP and different fractions exposure on blood coagulation function in mice. In this study, nine- week-old C57BL/6J male mice were divided into four exposure groups (with 15 mice in each group). The water-soluble (WS) and water-insoluble (WIS) fractions of DEP were isolated, and intratracheal instillation was used for DEP, WS and WIS exposure. The phosphate buffer saline (PBS) exposure group was set as the control group. After 24 h exposure, the mice were sacrificed for blood routine, coagulation function and bleeding time examinations to estimate the acute effect of DEP, WS and WIS exposure on the blood coagulation function. In our results, no statistically significant difference in weight of body, brain and lung was observed in different exposure groups. While several core indexes in blood coagulation like bleeding time (BT), fibrinogen (FIB), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and prothrombin time (PT) altered or showed a lower tendency after DEP, WS and WIS exposure. For example, BT was lower In WIS exposure group (211.00 s) compared with PBS exposure group (238.50 s) (p < 0.01), and FIB was lower in WS exposure group (233.00 g/L) compared with PBS exposure group (249.50 g/L) (p < 0.05). Additionally, systemic inflammation-related indexes like white blood cell count (WBC), neutrophil count (NEUT), lymphocyte count (LYMPH) altered after DEP, WS and WIS exposure. In conclusion, DEP, WS and WIS fractions exposure could result in the hypercoagulable state of blood in mice. The noteworthy effects of WS and WIS fractions exposure on blood coagulation function deserve further investigation of the potential mechanism.

Use of Leaves as Bioindicator to Assess Air Pollution Based on Composite Proxy Measure (APTI), Dust Amount and Elemental Concentration of Metals

Monitoring air pollution and environmental health are crucial to ensure viable cities. We assessed the usefulness of the Air Pollution Tolerance Index (APTI) as a composite index of environmental health. Fine and coarse dust amount and elemental concentrations of Celtis occidentalis and Tilia × europaea leaves were measured in June and September at three sampling sites (urban, industrial, and rural) in Debrecen city (Hungary) to assess the usefulness of APTI. The correlation between APTI values and dust amount and elemental concentrations was also studied. Fine dust, total chlorophyll, and elemental concentrations were the most sensitive indicators of pollution. Based on the high chlorophyll and low elemental concentration of tree leaves, the rural site was the least disturbed by anthropogenic activities, as expected. We demonstrated that fine and coarse dust amount and elemental concentrations of urban tree leaves are especially useful for urban air quality monitoring. Correlations between APTI and other measured parameters were also found. Both C. occidentalis and T. europaea were sensitive to air pollution based on their APTI values. Thus, the APTI of tree leaves is an especially useful proxy measure of air pollution, as well as environmental health.

Does occupational air pollution threaten the lung health of indoor workers more than those of bus drivers?: a cross-sectional study

AIM

This study aimed to evaluate the lung health between professional bus drivers and white collar workers in metropolis municipality from Turkey.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Out of 126 bus drivers and 1100 office employees, data were analyzed from 243 indoor employees and 57 bus drivers. Forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), FEV1/FVC, forced expiratory flow (FEF) 25-75% were measured, some data were collected with a questionnaire (work and environmental anamnesis, symptoms, smoking).

RESULTS

The mean (±SD) values for FVC, FVC percent predicted value, FEV1, FEV1 percent predicted value, FEV1/FVC were 4.33 ± 0.99L, 96.5 ± 18.2%, 3.31 ± 0.87L, 84.5 ± 18.2%, 76.30 ± 9.23%, respectively. Sixty-six participants (22%) had FEV1/FVC proportions of less than 70%. After weighing for the propensity scores, there was a significant difference between bus drivers and indoor workers concerning FEV1/FVC grouping; while 65 (26.1%) indoor workers had FEV1/FVC proportions less than 70%, there were only two (3.9%) bus drivers (Chi-Square = 12.009, p = .001). The mean spirometry values were significantly different between the two groups in favor of the bus drivers (p < .05). Night cough was much more seen in the indoor workers (Chi-Square test = 9.019, p = .003).

CONCLUSION

We conclude that there are no health risks associated with bus driving in a metropolitan city, concerning lung functions.

PM2.5 impairs macrophage functions to exacerbate pneumococcus-induced pulmonary pathogenesis

Background

Pneumococcus is one of the most common human airway pathogens that causes life-threatening infections. Ambient fine particulate matter (PM) with aerodynamic diameter ≤ 2.5 μm (PM_2.5) is known to significantly contribute to respiratory diseases. PM_2.5-induced airway inflammation may decrease innate immune defenses against bacterial infection. However, there is currently limited information available regarding the effect of PM_2.5 exposure on molecular interactions between pneumococcus and macrophages.

Results

PM_2.5 exposure hampered macrophage functions, including phagocytosis and proinflammatory cytokine production, in response to pneumococcal infection. In a PM_2.5-exposed pneumococcus-infected mouse model, PM_2.5 subverted the pulmonary immune response and caused leukocyte infiltration. Further, PM_2.5 exposure suppressed the levels of CXCL10 and its receptor, CXCR3, by inhibiting the PI3K/Akt and MAPK pathways.

Conclusions

The effect of PM_2.5 exposure on macrophage activity enhances pneumococcal infectivity and aggravates pulmonary pathogenesis.

Adolescent Haze-Related Knowledge Level Study: A Cross-Sectional Survey With Sensitivity Analysis

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the level of haze-related knowledge adolescents have and to explore relevant influencing factors. Methods: From June 2015 to January 2016, researchers randomly selected 2 districts from the 20 districts of Baoding, China. Then, researchers randomly selected two middle schools from two districts. By conducting a stratified cluster sampling and considering one class as a unit, researchers randomly selected, from the other middle school, five first-grade classes, five second-grade classes, five third-grade classes from the one middle school, and three first-grade classes, two second-grade classes, and two third-grade classes. Finally, 1,100 adolescents were investigated by using the demographic questionnaire and the Adolescent Haze-Related Knowledge Awareness Assessment Scale (AHRKAAS). Multiple linear regressions were conducted to explore factors affecting the adolescent haze-related knowledge. Sensitivity analysis was used to confirm associations between influencing factors and AHRKAAS scores. Results: The AHRKAAS score rate was 69.9%. The dimension of human factors of haze formation was the highest (score rate = 85.6%). The dimension of haze harms on the human body was the lowest (score rate = 57.1%). Compared with the group (monthly expenses <300 yuan), the group (monthly expenses ≥ 600 yuan) had a higher AHRKAAS score (β = 4.882, 95% CI: 0.979, 8.784). Compared with the group (Do not live with parents), the group (Live with parents) had a higher AHRKAAS score (β = 14.675, 95% CI: 9.494, 19.855). Compared with the group (Never undergo a physical examination), the group (Once a year) (β = 7.444, 95% CI: 2.922, 11.966) and the group (A few times a year) (β = 7.643, 95% CI: 2.367, 12.919) had a higher AHRKAAS score. Compared with the group (Know nothing), the group (Know most) (β = 9.623, 95% CI: 2.929, 16.316) and the group (Know very well) (β = 15.367, 95% CI: 7.220, 23.515) had a higher AHRKAAS score. These associations were still reliable and consistent in different sensitivity analysis models. Conclusion: The level of adolescent haze-related knowledge is low and is affected by monthly expenses, living condition, physical examination frequency, and knowledge of respiratory system diseases. Government bodies, schools, and research institutions should strengthen cooperation of health publicity and health education to improve adolescent haze-related knowledge.

Microbial Air Quality in Neighborhoods near Landfill Sites: Implications for Public Health

Air pollution has been a major challenge worldwide particularly in the developing world. Improper waste disposal and management may result in microbial air pollution. In advanced countries, landfill sites are far from neighborhoods; however, the opposite is observed for landfill sites in the developing world. In Accra, some landfill sites are 100 meters from neighborhoods. The aim of this study was to assess the microbial air quality and associated environmental health hazards of landfill sites in selected districts in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. A random sampling method was employed to select sampling sites across the dry and wet seasons from landfills and their corresponding neighborhoods. Results obtained showed a higher total count (CFU/m³) of bacteria and fungi in the air at the landfill sites than neighborhoods. Statistically significant variation (p < 0.05) in bacterial and fungal concentrations over two seasons was found for both landfills and neighborhoods. However, bacterial concentrations were significantly higher than fungal concentrations (p < 0.05) across seasons for all locations. Staphylococcus epidermidis was the highest (15.6 %) occurring microbe at both landfill sites and neighborhoods. This was followed by Staphylococcus aureus (12.7%). Other bacteria and fungi of public health importance such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Aspergillus flavus, and Aspergillus niger were also isolated from the study sites, above the WHO recommended levels. In conclusion, the landfill waste disposal and its close proximity to neighborhoods as observed in this study pose a potential environmental health risk, with dire implications for public health and safety. The government must enact and implement policies to regulate waste management and to ensure public safety.

A Robust Deep Learning Approach for Spatiotemporal Estimation of Satellite AOD and PM2.5

Accurate estimation of fine particulate matter with diameter ≤2.5 μm (PM2.5) at a high spatiotemporal resolution is crucial for the evaluation of its health effects. Previous studies face multiple challenges including limited ground measurements and availability of spatiotemporal covariates. Although the multiangle implementation of atmospheric correction (MAIAC) retrieves satellite aerosol optical depth (AOD) at a high spatiotemporal resolution, massive non-random missingness considerably limits its application in PM2.5 estimation. Here, a deep learning approach, i.e., bootstrap aggregating (bagging) of autoencoder-based residual deep networks, was developed to make robust imputation of MAIAC AOD and further estimate PM2.5 at a high spatial (1 km) and temporal (daily) resolution. The base model consisted of autoencoder-based residual networks where residual connections were introduced to improve learning performance. Bagging of residual networks was used to generate ensemble predictions for better accuracy and uncertainty estimates. As a case study, the proposed approach was applied to impute daily satellite AOD and subsequently estimate daily PM2.5 in the Jing-Jin-Ji metropolitan region of China in 2015. The presented approach achieved competitive performance in AOD imputation (mean test R2: 0.96; mean test RMSE: 0.06) and PM2.5 estimation (test R2: 0.90; test RMSE: 22.3 μg/m3). In the additional independent tests using ground AERONET AOD and PM2.5 measurements at the monitoring station of the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, this approach achieved high R2 (0.82–0.97). Compared with the state-of-the-art machine learning method, XGBoost, the proposed approach generated more reasonable spatial variation for predicted PM2.5 surfaces. Publically available covariates used included meteorology, MERRA2 PBLH and AOD, coordinates, and elevation. Other covariates such as cloud fractions or land-use were not used due to unavailability. The results of validation and independent testing demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed approach in exposure assessment of PM2.5 using satellite AOD having massive missing values.

Developing and Testing the Reliability and Validity of the Brief Haze Weather Health Protection Behavior Assessment Scale-Adolescent Version (BHWHPBAS-AV)

Objectives: To develop a Brief Haze Weather Health Protection Behavior Assessment Scale-Adolescent Version (BHWHPBAS-AV). Methods: Considering primary prevention, secondary prevention and tertiary prevention as a theoretical basis, researchers developed a Brief Haze Weather Health Protection Behavior Assessment Scale-Adolescent Version-I(BHWHPBAS-AV-I). After performing 6 reviews by related experts, and after conducting six adolescent tests for BHWHPBAS-AV-I, researchers developed an updated BHWHPBAS-AV-II. Out of the 20 districts in Baoding, two districts were randomly selected; moreover, two middle schools from these two districts were also randomly selected. Considering one class as a unit, researchers subsequently randomly selected 22 classes by using stratified sampling. In the end, 1,025 valid questionnaires were used as part of the study. At which point, researchers investigated the validity and reliability of the scale and obtained the final scale (BHWHPBAS-AV). Results: BHWHPBAS-AV Cronbach's α = 0.878, content validity = 0.948, and factor cumulative contribution rate = 54.058% using exploratory factor analysis. By confirmatory factor analysis, Chi square value (χ²) = 271.791, degrees of freedom (df) = 94, Chi square value/degrees of freedom (χ²/df) = 2.891, root-mean-square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.051, normed fit index (NFI) = 0.930, incremental fit index (IFI) = 0.953, goodness of fit index (GFI) = 0.955, Tueker-Lewis index (TLI) = 0.940, comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.953. BHWHPBAS-AV was composed of 16 items as well as 3 dimensions. Conclusions: A BHWHPBAS-AV scale that has an acceptable reliability and validity can be applied to assess adolescent haze weather health protection behavior, and can also help school teachers, as well as medical staff working in community health care institutions, to perform targeted behavioral interventions and deliver health education programs to adolescents.

Can Plant Phenolic Compounds Protect the Skin from Airborne Particulate Matter?

The skin is directly exposed to the polluted atmospheric environment, and skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis and acne vulgaris, can be induced or exacerbated by airborne particulate matter (PM). PM can also promote premature skin aging with its accompanying functional and morphological changes. PM-induced skin diseases and premature skin aging are largely mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the harmful effects of PM may be ameliorated by safe and effective natural antioxidants. Experimental studies have shown that the extracts and phenolic compounds derived from many plants, such as cocoa, green tea, grape, pomegranate, and some marine algae, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on PM-exposed cells. The phenolic compounds can decrease the levels of ROS in cells and/or enhance cellular antioxidant capacity and, thereby, can attenuate PM-induced oxidative damage to nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids. They also lower the levels of cytokines, chemokines, cell adhesion molecules, prostaglandins, and matrix metalloproteinases implicated in cellular inflammatory responses to PM. Although there is still much research to be done, current studies in this field suggest that plant-derived phenolic compounds may have a protective effect on skin exposed to high levels of air pollution.

Long-term effect of exposure to ambient air pollution on the risk of active tuberculosis

OBJECTIVES

To explore the long-term effect of exposure to ambient air pollution on the risk of active tuberculosis (TB).

METHODS

We constructed a distributed-lag nonlinear model (DLNM) to evaluate the relatively long-term influence of outdoor PM_2.5, PM₁₀, SO₂ and NO₂ exposure on active TB risk in the city of Lianyungang in Jiangsu Province, China.

RESULTS

There were 7,282 TB cases reported in the study area during 2014-2017, with annual median (interquartile range) concentrations of PM_2.5, PM₁₀, SO₂ and NO₂ at 45.86 (34.57-64.14) μg/m³, 85.43 (62.86-116.14) μg/m³, 22.00 (15.71-30.86) μg/m³ and 30.00 (23.29-38.57) μg/m³, respectively. The single-pollutant model showed that for each 10 μg/m³ increase in concentration, the cumulative relative risk of TB was 1.12 (lag 0-24 weeks, 95% CI: 1.03-1.22) for PM_2.5 with reference to 35 μg/m³; 1.11 (lag 0-21 weeks, 95% CI: 1.06-1.17) for PM₁₀ with reference to 70 μg/m³; 1.37 (lag 0-20 weeks, 95% CI: 1.16-1.62) for SO₂ with reference to 60 μg/m³; and 1.29 (lag 0-22 weeks, 95% CI: 1.11-1.49) for NO₂ with reference to 40 μg/m³. In the multipollutant model considering both PM₁₀ and NO₂, the association remained significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results revealed a potential association between outdoor exposure to PM_2.5, PM₁₀, SO₂, and NO₂ and active TB. Considering that people from developing countries continue to be exposed to both severe outdoor air pollution and high rates of latent TB infection, the association between worsening air pollution and active TB deserves further attention.

Marine Alga Ecklonia cava Extract and Dieckol Attenuate Prostaglandin E2 Production in HaCaT Keratinocytes Exposed to Airborne Particulate Matter

Atmospheric particulate matter (PM) is an important cause of skin damage, and an increasing number of studies have been conducted to discover safe, natural materials that can alleviate the oxidative stress and inflammation caused by PM. It has been previously shown that the extract of Ecklonia cava Kjellman, a perennial brown macroalga, can alleviate oxidative stress in epidermal keratinocytes exposed to PM less than 10 microns in diameter (PM10). The present study was undertaken to further examine the anti-inflammatory effects of E. cava extract and its major polyphenolic constituent, dieckol. HaCaT keratinocytes were exposed to PM10 in the presence or absence of E. cava extract or dieckol and analyzed for their viability, prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) release, and gene expression of cyclooxygenase (COX)-1, COX-2, microsomal prostaglandin E₂ synthase (mPGES)-1, mPGES-2, and cytosolic prostaglandin E₂ synthase (cPGES). PM10 treatment decreased cell viability and increased the production of PGE₂, and these changes were partially abrogated by E. cava extract. E. cava extract also attenuated the expression of COX-1, COX-2, and mPGES-2 stimulated by PM10. Dieckol attenuated PGE₂ production and the gene expression of COX-1, COX-2, and mPGES-1 stimulated by PM10. This study demonstrates that E. cava extract and dieckol alleviate airborne PM10-induced PGE₂ production in keratinocytes through the inhibition of gene expression of COX-1, COX-2, mPGES-1, and/or mPGES-2. Thus, E. cava extract and dieckol are potentially useful natural cosmetic ingredients for counteracting the pro-inflammatory effects of airborne PM.

Macrophage Exposure to Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons From Wood Smoke Reduces the Ability to Control Growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Use of solid fuels for cooking or home heating has been related to various diseases of the respiratory tract. Woodsmoke contains a mixture of carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and volatile organic compounds. Inhalation of these materials induces local and systemic changes in the immune system which may impair critical cell defense mechanisms; however, few studies have investigated the early effects that PAH exposures have on immune cells as macrophages. The aim of this study was to analyze if the pre-exposure to PAHs derived from woodsmoke deteriorates macrophage ability to control the intracellular growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. By using an in vitro experimental model, we analyzed the phenotype and some metabolic changes on THP-1 and monocyte-derived macrophages. Our results demonstrated that exposure to PAHs leads to cell activation and deteriorates mitochondrial function of the macrophage thus facilitating growth of M. tuberculosis.

Brief adult respiratory system health status scale-community version (BARSHSS-CV): developing and evaluating the reliability and validity

Background

The evaluation of respiratory system health status in hospitalized patients is usually based on many laboratory examinations and imaging examinations. Medical examinations require a lot of manpower, material resources, financial resources, and may cause a certain degree of mechanical damage and radiation damage. It is not easily used widely and economically to assess the respiratory health status of community adults. Therefore, researchers developed a brief adult respiratory system health status scale-community version (BARSHSS-CV) and tested its reliability and validity.

Methods

Using clinical characteristics and pathogenic factors of respiratory system diseases as a theoretical basis and through reference to relevant literature, researchers developed an initial scale. A randomized cluster sampling strategy was used to recruit adults in the communities of Baoding City, Shijiazhuang City, Cangzhou city and Chifeng City in China. Researchers randomly selected 1 district from each city. Subsequently, 4 communities were respectively randomly selected from 4 districts. Then, researchers conducted the questionnaire survey in 4 communities. Finally, researchers investigated 615 community adults. 584 valid questionnaires were recovered. By applying exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, content validity index, Cronbach’s α coefficient, mean inter-item correlation coefficient and test-retest reliability, researchers tested the reliability and validity of scale and created the final BARSHSS-CV.

Results

BARSHSS-CV Cronbach’s α=0.951, content validity = 0.933, test-retest reliability = 0.963 and factor cumulative contribution rate = 67.168% by exploratory factor analysis. By confirmatory factor analysis, Chi square value (χ2) was 442.117, degrees of freedom (df) was 161, Chi square value/degrees of freedom (χ2 /df) was 2.746, root-mean-square error of approximation (RMSEA) was 0.065, goodness of fit index (GFI) was 0.902, incremental fit index (IFI) was 0.955, comparative fit index (CFI) was 0.955, normed fit index (NFI) was 0.931, Tueker-Lewis index (TLI) was 0.947. BARSHSS-CV consisted of 20 items and 3 dimensions.

Conclusions

BARSHSS-CV with good test-retest reliability and content/construct validity is a brief and economical tool for assessing the state of respiratory system amongst adult communities. BARSHSS-CV may help medical staff in community primary medical institutions quickly, conveniently and economically assess the status of respiratory system and the main problems of respiratory system in community adults.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12913-018-3505-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Development and testing of the reliability and validity of the adolescent haze related knowledge awareness assessment scale (AHRKAAS)

Background

Haze leads to many direct serious public health impacts. Understanding haze related knowledge can not only help adolescents organize health protection awareness to prevent the harmful effects that haze has on the body, but also promote their normal growth and development.

Methods

By considering, as the theoretical basis, the reasons behind the formation of haze and the underlying mechanisms of the diseases that it causes, in addition to also investigating extensive literature references, our research team developed the Adolescent Haze Related Knowledge Awareness Assessment Scale (AHRKAAS-I). After 6 experts reviewed AHRKAAS-I, and 6 adolescents tested the scale, the research team further revised and improved AHRKAAS-I to form AHRKAAS-II. After which, researchers randomly selected 2 districts from the 20 districts of Baoding, and subsequently randomly selected 2 middle schools from these 2 districts. Conducting a stratified cluster sampling method, considering class as a unit, the research team randomly selected 22 classes. Finally, a total of 1100 adolescents were investigated and 1034 valid questionnaires were recovered. By analyzing the data of 1034 valid questionnaires, the researchers tested the reliability and validity of the scale and obtained the final scale (AHRKAAS).

Results

AHRKAAS Cronbach’s α=0.923, content validity = 0.940, criterion validity = 0.444, and factor cumulative contribution rate = 66.178% by exploratory factor analysis. Using confirmatory factor analysis, Chi square value = 662.780, degrees of freedom = 242, Chi square value/degrees of freedom = 2.739, root-mean-square error of approximation = 0.049, goodness of fit index = 0.929, adjusted goodness of fit index = 0.905, comparative fit index = 0.964, normed fit index = 0.944, and Tueker-Lewis index = 0.955. AHRKAAS consisted of 25 items and 4 dimensions.

Conclusion

AHRKAAS with a good reliability and validity can be used to assess the cognition level of haze related knowledge among the adolescents, help medical workers and coordinators in schools when conducting targeted behavior interventions. Furthermore, it can be used for health guidance for adolescents relating to the health prevention of haze.

Atmospheric Sensors and Energy Harvesters on Overhead Power Lines

We demonstrate the feasibility of using novel, small energy harvesters to power atmospheric sensors and radios simply attached to a single conductor of existing overhead power distribution lines. We demonstrate the ability to harvest the required power for operating multiple atmospheric and power-system sensors, together with short-range radios that could broadcast atmospheric sensor data to the cellphones of people nearby. Occasional long-range broadcasts of the data could also be made of both atmospheric and power-line conditions.

Air pollution, oxidative stress, and exacerbation of autoimmune diseases

A number of epidemiological studies have shown a strong association between exposure to ambient airborne particulate matter (PM 2.5, PM < 1.0) and lung or cardiovascular diseases characterised by high mortality and morbidity. However, much less is known about the role of air pollution in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, which constitutes a significant problem in modern society. This paper summarises the state of current research regarding the influence of PM on the development and/or progression of autoimmune diseases. A brief review of the great body of research concerning pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders is presented. Then, the scope of our review is narrowed to the research related to the impact of particulate matter on oxidative and nitrosative stress, as well as exacerbation of chronic inflammation, because they can contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases. Moreover, we discuss the impact of various components of PM (metal, organic compounds) on PM toxicity and the ability to generate oxidants.

Combustion instability mitigation by magnetic fields

The present interdisciplinary study combines electromagnetics and combustion to unveil an original and basic experiment displaying a spontaneous flame instability that is mitigated as the non-premixed sooting flame experiences a magnetic perturbation. This magnetic instability mitigation is reproduced by direct numerical simulations to be further elucidated by a flow stability analysis. A key role in the stabilization process is attributed to the momentum and thermochemistry coupling that the magnetic force, acting mainly on paramagnetic oxygen, contributes to sustain. The spatial local stability analysis based on the numerical simulations shows that the magnetic field tends to reduce the growth rates of small flame perturbations.

Impacts of meteorological and environmental factors on allergic rhinitis in children

Meteorological and environmental factors influence the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis (AR). An understanding of the risk factors will facilitate the development of diagnostic and preventative tools for AR children and improve their quality of life. However, research on the impact of these factors on subjective symptoms in AR children remains scarce. This study explored the relationships between subjective symptoms in pollen and dust mite positive AR children, and meteorological and environmental factors. Using a linear mixed effect model, we analyzed the correlations between monthly data on the subjective symptoms of 351 AR children (from the Shanghai Children's Medical Center) and meteorological and environmental factors during 2013. The monthly meteorological and environmental data were provided by the Shanghai Meteorological Service and Shanghai Environmental Protection Bureau. Temperature and humidity were negatively correlated with the subjective symptom score, with a 0.04 point increase observed for every 1 °C decrease in temperature (P < 0.0001) or 10 % decline in humidity (P = 0.0412). The particulate matter (PM) 10 and PM2.5 concentrations were positively correlated with the subjective symptom score, with a 10 μg/m³ increase in PM10 and PM2.5 yielding a 0.02 (P = 0.0235) and 0.03 (P = 0.0281) increase in the subjective symptom score, respectively. In conclusion, meteorological and environmental factors were correlated with subjective symptoms in AR children. Low temperatures, lower humidity, and high PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations aggravated subjective symptoms in AR children.

Quantifying the characteristics of particulate matters captured by urban plants using an automatic approach

It is widely accepted that urban plant leaves can capture airborne particles. Previous studies on the particle capture capacity of plant leaves have mostly focused on particle mass and/or size distribution. Fewer studies, however, have examined the particle density, and the size and shape characteristics of particles, which may have important implications for evaluating the particle capture efficiency of plants, and identifying the particle sources. In addition, the role of different vegetation types is as yet unclear. Here, we chose three species of different vegetation types, and firstly applied an object-based classification approach to automatically identify the particles from scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs. We then quantified the particle capture efficiency, and the major sources of particles were identified. We found (1) Rosa xanthina Lindl (shrub species) had greater retention efficiency than Broussonetia papyrifera (broadleaf species) and Pinus bungeana Zucc. (coniferous species), in terms of particle number and particle area cover. (2) 97.9% of the identified particles had diameter ≤10 μm, and 67.1% of them had diameter ≤2.5 μm. 89.8% of the particles had smooth boundaries, with 23.4% of them being nearly spherical. (3) 32.4%-74.1% of the particles were generated from bare soil and construction activities, and 15.5%-23.0% were mainly from vehicle exhaust and cooking fumes.

Air pollution particulate matter alters antimycobacterial respiratory epithelium innate immunity

Inhalation exposure to indoor air pollutants and cigarette smoke increases the risk of developing tuberculosis (TB). Whether exposure to ambient air pollution particulate matter (PM) alters protective human host immune responses against Mycobacterium tuberculosis has been little studied. Here, we examined the effect of PM from Iztapalapa, a municipality of Mexico City, with aerodynamic diameters below 2.5 μm (PM2.5) and 10 μm (PM10) on innate antimycobacterial immune responses in human alveolar type II epithelial cells of the A549 cell line. Exposure to PM2.5 or PM10 deregulated the ability of the A549 cells to express the antimicrobial peptides human β-defensin 2 (HBD-2) and HBD-3 upon infection with M. tuberculosis and increased intracellular M. tuberculosis growth (as measured by CFU count). The observed modulation of antibacterial responsiveness by PM exposure was associated with the induction of senescence in PM-exposed A549 cells and was unrelated to PM-mediated loss of cell viability. Thus, the induction of senescence and downregulation of HBD-2 and HBD-3 expression in respiratory PM-exposed epithelial cells leading to enhanced M. tuberculosis growth represent mechanisms by which exposure to air pollution PM may increase the risk of M. tuberculosis infection and the development of TB.

Gaseous emissions from a heavy-duty engine equipped with SCR aftertreatment system and fuelled with diesel and biodiesel: assessment of pollutant dispersion and health risk

The changes in the composition of fuels in combination with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) emission control systems bring new insights into the emission of gaseous and particulate pollutants. The major goal of our study was to quantify NOx, NO, NO2, NH3 and N2O emissions from a four-cylinder diesel engine operated with diesel and a blend of 20% soybean biodiesel. Exhaust fume samples were collected from bench dynamometer tests using a heavy-duty diesel engine equipped with SCR. The target gases were quantified by means of Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR). The use of biodiesel blend presented lower concentrations in the exhaust fumes than using ultra-low sulfur diesel. NOx and NO concentrations were 68% to 93% lower in all experiments using SCR, when compared to no exhaust aftertreatment. All fuels increased NH3 and N2O emission due to SCR, a precursor secondary aerosol, and major greenhouse gas, respectively. An AERMOD dispersion model analysis was performed on each compound results for the City of Curitiba, assumed to have a bus fleet equipped with diesel engines and SCR system, in winter and summer seasons. The health risks of the target gases were assessed using the Risk Assessment Information System For 1-h exposure of NH3, considering the use of low sulfur diesel in buses equipped with SCR, the results indicated low risk to develop a chronic non-cancer disease. The NOx and NO emissions were the lowest when SCR was used; however, it yielded the highest NH3 concentration. The current results have paramount importance, mainly for countries that have not yet adopted the Euro V emission standards like China, India, Australia, or Russia, as well as those already adopting it. These findings are equally important for government agencies to alert the need of improvements in aftertreatment technologies to reduce pollutants emissions.