Association between ambient exposure to PM2.5 and upper aerodigestive tract cancer in Los Angeles

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5 ) contains carcinogens similar to those generated by tobacco smoking, which may increase the risks of developing smoking-related cancers, such as upper aerodigestive track (UADT) cancers, for both smokers and never-smokers. Therefore, it is imperative to understand the relation between ambient PM2.5 exposure and risk of UADT cancers. A population-based case-control study involving 565 incident UADT cancer cases and 983 controls was conducted in Los Angeles County from 1999 to 2004. The average residential PM2.5 concentration 1 year before the diagnosis date for cases and the reference date for controls was assessed using a chemical transport model. The association between ambient PM2.5 and the UADT cancers was estimated by unconditional logistic regression, adjusting for confounders at the individual and block-group level. Stratified analyses were conducted by sex, tobacco smoking status and UADT subsites. We also assessed the interaction between PM2.5 and tobacco smoking on UADT cancers. PM2.5 concentrations were associated with an elevated odds of UADT cancers (adjusted odds ratio = 1.21 per interquartile range [4.5 μg/m3 ] increase; 95% confidence interval: 1.02, 1.44). The association between PM2.5 and UADT cancers was similar across UADT subsites, sex and tobacco smoking status. The interaction between PM2.5 and tobacco smoking on UADT cancers was approximately additive on the odds scale. The effect estimate for PM2.5 and UADT cancers was similar among never smokers. Our findings support the hypothesis that exposure to PM2.5 increases the risk of UADT cancers. Improvements in air quality may reduce the risk of UADT cancers.

The Impact of Acute Peri-operative Particulate Matter Exposure on Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Outcomes: A Preliminary Multi-site Investigation

BACKGROUND

Environmental exposures have been postulated to play an important role in the pathophysiology of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Particulate matter (PM) is one of the most widely studied ambient air pollutants, but its peri-operative impact on CRS is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of acute, peri-operative PM exposure on outcomes after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).

METHODS

Participants with CRS who self-selected ESS were prospectively enrolled. The 22-item SinoNasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) and Medical Outcomes Study Questionnaire Short-Form 6-D (SF-6D) health utility values scores were recorded. Using residence zip codes, a secondary analysis of patient exposure to PM <2.5 μm and <10 μm (PM2.5 and PM10, respectively) was performed for the month of surgery utilizing data from Environmental Protection Agency air quality monitors. Spearman's correlation coefficients (ρ), 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and effect estimates (β) were used to determine the magnitudes of association. Simple, multivariate regression analysis was also completed.

RESULTS

One hundred and seven patients from four geographically unique institutions across the US were enrolled with a follow-up of 6 months. Patients with higher peri-operative PM2.5 exposure had less improvement in their SNOT-22 scores after ESS compared to those with less exposure using both univariate analysis (ρ = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.08, 0.43; P  =  .01) and after covariate adjustment with multivariate analysis (B  =  1.06, 95% CI: 0.001, 2.14, P  =  .05). Similar associations were not found with SF-6D outcomes or with PM10 as an exposure of interest. No significant correlations were found between peri-operative PM levels and Lund-Kennedy endoscopy scores post-operatively.

CONCLUSION

Preliminary data from this pilot study reveal that PM exposure at the time of ESS may negatively associate with post-operative improvement in sinonasal quality-of-life. Larger, population-based studies with more standardized PM exposure windows are needed to confirm the clinical significance of the present findings.

Toxic Potencies of Particulate Matter from Typical Industrial Plants Mediated with Acidity via Metal Dissolution

Acidity is an important property of particulate matter (PM) in the atmosphere, but its association with PM toxicity remains unclear. Here, this study quantitively reports the effect of the acidity level on PM toxicity via pH-control experiments and cellular analysis. Oxidative stress and cytotoxicity potencies of acidified PM samples at pH of 1-2 were up to 2.8-5.2 and 2.1-13.2 times higher than those at pH of 8-11, respectively. The toxic potencies of PM samples from real-world smoke plumes at the pH of 2.3 were 9.1-18.2 times greater than those at the pH of 5.6, demonstrating a trend similar to that of acidified PM samples. Furthermore, the impact of acidity on PM toxicity was manifested by promoting metal dissolution. The dramatic increase by 2-3 orders of magnitude in water-soluble metal content dominated the variation in PM toxicity. The significant correlation between sulfate, the pH value, water-soluble Fe, IC20, and EC1.5 (p < 0.05) suggested that acidic sulfate could enhance toxic potencies by dissolving insoluble metals. The findings uncover the superficial association between sulfate and adverse health outcomes in epidemiological research and highlight the control of wet smoke plume emissions to mitigate the toxicity effects of acidity.

Elemental Characterization of Ambient Particulate Matter for a Globally Distributed Monitoring Network: Methodology and Implications

Global ground-level measurements of elements in ambient particulate matter (PM) can provide valuable information to understand the distribution of dust and trace elements, assess health impacts, and investigate emission sources. We use X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy to characterize the elemental composition of PM samples collected from 27 globally distributed sites in the Surface PARTiculate mAtter Network (SPARTAN) over 2019-2023. Consistent protocols are applied to collect all samples and analyze them at one central laboratory, which facilitates comparison across different sites. Multiple quality assurance measures are performed, including applying reference materials that resemble typical PM samples, acceptance testing, and routine quality control. Method detection limits and uncertainties are estimated. Concentrations of dust and trace element oxides (TEO) are determined from the elemental dataset. In addition to sites in arid regions, a moderately high mean dust concentration (6 μg/m3) in PM2.5 is also found in Dhaka (Bangladesh) along with a high average TEO level (6 μg/m3). High carcinogenic risk (>1 cancer case per 100000 adults) from airborne arsenic is observed in Dhaka (Bangladesh), Kanpur (India), and Hanoi (Vietnam). Industries of informal lead-acid battery and e-waste recycling as well as coal-fired brick kilns likely contribute to the elevated trace element concentrations found in Dhaka.

Palmatine Alleviates Particulate Matter-Induced Acute Lung Injury by Inhibiting Pyroptosis via Activating the Nrf2-Related Pathway

Particulate matter (PM) induces and enhances oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to a variety of respiratory diseases, including acute lung injury. Exploring new treatments for PM-induced lung injury has long been of interest to researchers. Palmatine (PAL) is a natural extract derived from plants that has been reported in many studies to alleviate inflammatory diseases. Our study was designed to explore whether PAL can alleviate acute lung injury caused by PM. The acute lung injury model was established by instilling PM (4 mg/kg) into the airway of mice, and PAL (50 mg/kg and 100 m/kg) was administrated orally as the treatment groups. The effect and mechanism of PAL treatment were examined by immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, Western Blotting, ELISA, and other experiments. The results showed that oral administration of PAL (50 mg/kg and 100 m/kg) could significantly alleviate lung inflammation and acute lung injury caused by PM. In terms of mechanism, we found that PAL (50 mg/kg) exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-damage effects mainly by enhancing the activation of the Nrf2-related antioxidant pathway and inhibiting the activation of the NLRP3-related pyroptosis pathway in mice. These mechanisms have also been verified in our cell experiments. Further cell experiments showed that PAL may reduce intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) by activating Nrf2-related pathways, thereby inhibiting the activation of NLRP3-related pyroptosis pathway induced by PM in Beas-2B cell. Our study suggests that PAL can be a new option for PM-induced acute lung injury.

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.

Recent advances in the epithelial barrier theory

The epithelial barrier theory links the recent rise in chronic non-communicable diseases, notably autoimmune and allergic disorders, to environmental agents disrupting the epithelial barrier. Global pollution and environmental toxic agent exposure have worsened over six decades because of uncontrolled growth, modernization, and industrialization, affecting human health. Introducing new chemicals without any reasonable control of their health effects through these years has led to documented adverse effects, especially on the skin and mucosal epithelial barriers. These substances, such as particulate matter, detergents, surfactants, food emulsifiers, micro- and nano-plastics, diesel exhaust, cigarette smoke, and ozone, have been shown to compromise the epithelial barrier integrity. This disruption is linked to the opening of the tight-junction barriers, inflammation, cell death, oxidative stress, and metabolic regulation. Consideration must be given to the interplay of toxic substances, underlying inflammatory diseases, and medications, especially in affected tissues. This review article discusses the detrimental effect of environmental barrier-damaging compounds on human health and involves cellular and molecular mechanisms.

Causal relationship between air pollution and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in European and East Asian populations: a Mendelian randomization study

Epidemiologic studies have suggested a possible association between air pollution and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but it is controversial and difficult to draw causal inferences. Five methods were adopted to evaluate the causal relationship between air pollution and COPD in European and East Asian populations by using MR Analysis. A statistically significant causal relationship between PM2.5 and COPD was observed in the European population (OR: 2.34; 95% CI: 1.06-5.05; p = 0.033). Statistical significance remained after adjustment for confounding factors (adjusted OR: 2.28; 95% CI: 1.01-5.20; p = 0.048). In East Asian populations, PM2.5 absorbance, a proxy for black carbon, was statistically associated with COPD (OR: 1.41; 95% CI: 1.09-1.81; p = 0.007). We did not adjust for confounders in East Asian populations, as the association was independent of known confounders (e.g. smoking, respiratory tract infections, etc.). In conclusion, increased concentrations of PM2.5 and PM2.5 absorbance were associated with an increased risk of COPD.

Assessment of human health risks associated with airborne arsenic, nickel and lead exposure in particulate matter from vehicular sources in Sao Paulo city

Air pollution is a critical public health concern. The present study assessed the risk to human health of airborne Potentially Toxic Elements (PTE) arsenic, nickel and lead exposure in particulate matter (PM10-2.5) in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Statistical analysis was performed using R Software and the risk assessment for human health was carried out according to the methods of the United States Environmental Protection Agency. The results for mean annual concentration of PTE (ng m-3) were within the limits stipulated for air-quality by international agencies (arsenic <6, nickel <20 and lead <150). Airborne arsenic and lead showed higher mean concentrations during the winter than the other seasons (p < 0.05). However, the results showed a greater health risk for the adult population and during the winter season. These findings highlight the importance of air pollution as a risk factor for population health.

Physical Activity-Induced Modification of the Association of Long-Term Air Pollution Exposure with the Risk of Depression in Older Adults

PURPOSE

Evidence suggests that long-term air pollution exposures may induce depression; however, the influence of physical activity on this effect is unclear. We investigated modification of the associations between air pollution exposures and depression by the intensity of physical activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 1454 Korean adults. Depression was defined as a Geriatric Depression Scale score ≥8. Concentrations of particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5: diameter ≤10 µm and ≤2.5 µm, respectively) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) level at each participant's residential address were estimated. Based on metabolic equivalents, physical activity intensity was categorized as inactive, minimally active, or health-enhancing physical activity (HEPA).

RESULTS

Each 1-part per billion (ppb) NO2 concentration increase was significantly associated with a 6% [95% confidence interval (CI), 4%-8%] increase in depression risk. In older adults (≥65 years), a 1-ppb NO2 increase was associated (95% CI) with a 4% (1%-7%), 9% (5%-13%), and 21% (9%-33%) increase in depression risk in the inactive, minimally active, and HEPA groups, respectively. Compared with the inactive group, the minimally active (p=0.039) and HEPA groups (p=0.004) had higher NO2 exposure-associated depression risk. Associations of PM10 and PM2.5 with depression did not significantly differ by the intensity of physical activity.

CONCLUSION

We suggest that older adults who vigorously exercise outdoors may be susceptible to air pollution-related depression.

Does air pollutant exposure impact disease severity or outcomes in chronic rhinosinusitis?

BACKGROUND

Poor air quality increases the risk of developing chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and other airway diseases. However, there are limited data on air pollutants and CRS-specific disease severity. We assessed the impact of air pollutants on sinonasal-specific and general quality-of-life (QOL) measures in a multi-institutional cohort of patients with CRS.

METHODS

Participants with CRS were prospectively enrolled in a cross-sectional study and self-selected continued appropriate medical therapy or endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). The 22-item SinoNasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) and Medical Outcomes Study Questionnaire Short-Form 6-D (SF-6D) health utility value scores were recorded. Patient exposure to air pollutants was determined using residence zip codes. Unadjusted group differences were compared, and correlation coefficients were evaluated to identify the magnitude of bivariate association.

RESULTS

A total of 486 patients were enrolled and followed for a mean of 6.9 (standard deviation [SD] ± 2.3) months. Pollutant exposure did not significantly correlate with baseline SNOT-22 or SF-6D scores. Revision ESS was associated with higher median fine particulate matter (PM2.5; Δ = 0.12, [95% confidence interval {CI}: 0.003, 0.234]; p = 0.006) compared with primary surgery. PM2.5, PM10, and nitrogen dioxide concentrations (μg/m3) did not correlate with change in total SNOT-22 or SF-6D scores after treatment. Nevertheless, sulfur dioxide (SNOT-22: ρ = -0.121 [95% CI: -0.210, -0.030]; p = 0.007; SF-6D: ρ = 0.095 [95% CI: 0.002, 0.186]; p = 0.04) and carbon monoxide (SNOT-22: ρ = -0.141 [95% CI: -0.230, 0.050]; p = 0.002) exposure did correlate with these outcome measures.

CONCLUSION

Air pollutants may contribute, at least in part, to disease severity in CRS; future investigation is needed to further elucidate the nature of this relationship.

Ambient air pollution and mortality: The role of socioeconomic conditions

Background

There is a vast body of literature covering the association between air pollution exposure and nonaccidental mortality. However, the role of socioeconomic status (SES) in this relationship is still not fully understood.

Objectives

We investigated if individual and contextual SES modified the relationship between short-term exposure to ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter <10 µm (PM10) on cardiovascular, respiratory, and all nonaccidental mortality.

Methods

We conducted a time-stratified case-crossover study. Analyses were based on information on 280,685 deaths from 2011 to 2015 in the city of São Paulo. Education was used as an individual SES, and information on the district of residence was used to build a contextual SES. Exposure to PM10, NO2, and O3 was accessed from monitoring stations and linked to each case based on the date of death. Conditional logistic regression models were used to estimate the effects of air pollutants, and interaction terms were added to access the effect modification of SES.

Results

Individuals with lower education had an increased chance of dying for all nonaccidental outcomes (1.54% [0.91%, 2.14%]) associated with exposure to PM10. Individuals living in lower SES areas had an increased chance of dying for nonaccidental (0.52% [0.16%, 0.88%]), cardiovascular (1.17% [0.88%, 1.46%]), and respiratory (1.70% [0.47%, 2.93%]) causes owing to NO2 exposure.

Conclusion

Exposure to air pollutants increases the chance of dying by nonaccidental, cardiovascular, and respiratory causes. Lower educational levels and living on lower contextual SES increased the risk of mortality associated with air pollution exposure.

Effects of inhaled fine particulate matter on the lung injury as well as gut microbiota in broilers

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has been widely regarded as an important environmental risk factor that has widely influenced health of both animals and humans. Lung injury is the main cause of PM2.5 affecting respiratory tract health. Gut microbiota participates in the development of lung injury in many pathological processes. However, there is still unknown the specific effects of PM2.5 on the gut-lung axis in broilers. Thus, we conducted a broiler model based on 3-wk-old male Arbor Acres broiler to explore the underlying mechanism. Our results showed that PM2.5 exposure triggered TLR4 signaling pathway and induced the increase of IL-6, IFN-γ, TNF-α expression as well as the decrease of IL-10 expression in the lung. Inhaled PM2.5 exposure significantly altered the gut microbiota diversity and community. Specifically, PM2.5 exposure decreased α diversity and altered β diversity of gut microbiota, and reduced the abundance of DTU089, Oscillospirales, Staphylococcus, and increased the Escherichia-Shigella abundance, leading to the increase of gut-derived lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Moreover, PM2.5 significantly disrupted the intestinal epithelial barrier by reducing the expression of muc2 and claudin-1 to increase intestinal permeability, which possibly facilitated the LPS translocation into the blood. Spearman analysis revealed that gut microbiota dysbiosis was positively related to TLR4, TNF-α, and IFN-γ expression in the lung. In summary, our results showed that PM2.5 exposure induced lung injury by causing inflammation and triggering TLR4 signaling pathway, and also induced gut microbiota dysbiosis resulting in the overproduction of gut-derived LPS. And gut microbiota dysbiosis may be associated with lung injury. The above results provide basis data to comprehend the potential role of gut microbiota dysbiosis in the lung injury as well as providing a new regulatory target for alleviating lung injury associated with environmental pollutants.

Ambient particulate matter air pollution exposure and ovarian cancer incidence in the USA: An ecological study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate associations between air particulate matter of ≤2.5 μm in diameter (PM2.5 ) and ovarian cancer.

DESIGN

County-level ecological study.

SETTING

Surveillance, epidemiology, and end results from a collection of state-level cancer registries across 744 counties. Data from the Environmental Protection Agency's network for PM2.5 monitoring was used to calculate trailing 5- and 10-year PM2.5 county-level values. County-level data on demographic characteristics were obtained from the American Community Survey.

POPULATION

A total of 98 751 patients with histologically confirmed ovarian cancer as a primary malignancy from 2000 to 2016.

METHODS

Generalised linear regression models were developed to estimate the association between PM2.5 and PM10 levels, over 5- and 10-year periods of exposure, and ovarian cancer risk, after accounting for county-level covariates.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Risk ratios for associations between ovarian cancer (both overall and specifically epithelial ovarian cancer) and PM2.5 levels.

RESULTS

For the 744 counties included, the average PM2.5 level from 1990 through 2018 was 11.75 μg/m3 (SD = 3.7) and the average PM10 level was 22.7 μg/m3 (SD = 5.7). After adjusting for county-level covariates, the overall annualised ovarian cancer incidence was significantly associated with increases in 5-year PM2.5 (RR = 1.11 per 10 units (μg/m3 ) increase, 95% CI 1.06-1.16). Similarly, when the analysis was limited to epithelial cell tumours and adjusted for county-level covariates there was a significant association with trailing 5-year PM2.5 exposure models (RR = 1.12 per 10 units increase, 95% CI 1.08-1.17). Likewise, 10-year PM2.5 exposure was associated with ovarian cancer overall and with epithelial ovarian cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher county-level ambient PM2.5 levels are associated with 5- and 10-year incidences of ovarian cancer, as measurable in an ecological study.

Retinoic Acid Treatment Mitigates PM2.5-Induced Type 2 Inflammation: Insights into Modulation of Innate Immune Responses

Some studies have demonstrated the effects of particulate matter (PM) on chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) development, as well as the therapeutic role of retinoic acid (RA) in nasal polypogenesis. However, the immunologic effect of PM in innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) and the exact mechanism of the therapeutic effect of RA remain unclear. Therefore, the present study investigated the effects of fine-dust-induced inflammation in CRSwNP and the mechanisms of the therapeutic effect of RA. PM2.5 exposure exacerbated pathological damage in the nasal mucosa of mice with nasal polyps (NP) via upregulation of type 2 inflammation. Additionally, PM2.5 exposure increased the expression of type 2 cytokines and epithelial-cell-derived cytokines (IL-33 and IL-25) significantly, as well as the ILC populations in human-NP-derived epithelial cells (HNECs). Moreover, RA supplementation significantly increased the expression of ILCreg in Lin-CD45+CD127+ cells, which in turn increased the levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. The findings suggest that PM2.5 exposures could aggravate the CRSwNP type 2 inflammation, and RA treatment may ameliorate fine-dust-induced inflammation by modulating the innate immune response.

Causal association between air pollution and autoimmune diseases: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study

Background

In recent years, an increasing number of observational studies have reported the impact of air pollution on autoimmune diseases (ADs). However, no Mendelian randomization (MR) studies have been conducted to investigate the causal relationships. To enhance our understanding of causality, we examined the causal relationships between particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) and ADs.

Methods

We utilized genome-wide association study (GWAS) data on PM and NOx from the UK Biobank in European and East Asian populations. We also extracted integrated GWAS data from the Finnish consortium and the Japanese Biobank for two-sample MR analysis. We employed inverse variance weighted (IVW) analysis to assess the causal relationship between PM and NOx exposure and ADs. Additionally, we conducted supplementary analyses using four methods, including IVW (fixed effects), weighted median, weighted mode, and simple mode, to further investigate this relationship.

Results

In the European population, the results of MR analysis suggested a statistically significant association between PM2.5 and psoriasis only (OR = 3.86; 95% CI: 1.89-7.88; PIVW < 0.00625), while a potential association exists between PM2.5-10 and vitiligo (OR = 7.42; 95% CI: 1.02-53.94; PIVW < 0.05), as well as between PM2.5 and systemic lupus erythematosus (OR = 68.17; 95% CI: 2.17-2.1e+03; PIVW < 0.05). In East Asian populations, no causal relationship was found between air pollutants and the risk of systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis (PIVW > 0.025). There was no pleiotropy in the results.

Conclusion

Our results suggest a causal association between PM2.5 and psoriasis in European populations. With the help of air pollution prevention and control, the harmful progression of psoriasis may be slowed.

Surgical smoke and its components, effects, and mitigation: a contemporary review

Energy-based surgical instruments produce surgical smoke, which contains harmful byproducts, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, volatile organic compounds, particulate matter, and viable microorganisms. The research setting has shifted from the laboratory to the operating room. However, significant heterogeneity in the methods of detection and placement of samplers, diversity in the tissue operated on, and types of surgeries tested has resulted in variability in detected levels and composition of surgical smoke. State regulation limiting surgical smoke exposure through local evacuators is expanding but has yet to reach the national regulatory level. However, most studies have not shown levels above standard established limits but relatively short bursts of high concentrations of these harmful by-products. This review highlights the limitations of the current research and unsupported conclusions while also suggesting further areas of interest that need more focus to improve Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines.

Cardiovascular disease, mortality and exposure to particulate matter (PM): a systematic review and meta-analysis

One of the main factors that causes health effects in humans such as hospital admissions for cardiovascular disease (HACVD), respiratory disease (RD), lung function, cardiovascular mortality (MCVD), lung cancer, and increased mortality is air pollution especially particulate matter (PM). This a systematic review and meta-analysis aims to investigate the effects of particulate matter on the occurrence of cardiovascular disease and mortality. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature was done from 2011 to 2021 based on various databases. Based on the result of this study, subgroup analysis based on temperature conditions showed a different estimation in cold cities (6.24, UR (4.36-8.12)), moderate cities (4.86, UR (3.57-6.15)) and warm cities (8.96, UR (7.06-10.86)). Test of group differences showed a significant difference (Q=12.22, p-value<0.001). There was publication bias among the studies (the Egger's test; (Z=14.18, p<0.001)). According result study pooled estimation of AP% for MCVD from the random-effect meta-analysis based on DerSimonian-Laird model, overall is 5.04, UR (3.65-6.43) (Figure 4). Subgroup analysis based on temperature conditions showed the estimation in cold cities (5.47, UR (3.97-6.97)) and moderate cities (4.65, UR (0.54-8.77)). Test of group differences showed a non-significant difference (Q=0.13, p-value=0.71). There was no publication bias among the studies (the Egger's test; (Z=0.82, p=0.376)). Exposed to air pollutants and particulate matter can be increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and cardiovascular mortality.

Avoidance of Inhaled Pollutants and Irritants in Asthma from a Salutogenic Perspective

Much is known about the role of aeroallergens in asthma, but little is described about the damage caused by inhaled pollutants and irritants to the respiratory epithelium. In this context, the most frequent pollutants and irritants inhaled in the home environment were identified, describing the possible repercussions that may occur in the respiratory tract of the pediatric population with asthma and highlighting the role of the caregiver in environmental control through a salutogenic perspective. Searches were carried out in the MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, Lilacs and Scopus databases for articles considered relevant for the theoretical foundation of this integrative review, in which interactions between exposure to pollutants and inhaled irritants and lung involvement. Articles published in the last 10 years that used the following descriptors were considered: air pollution; tobacco; particulate matter; disinfectants; hydrocarbons, fluorinated; odorants; chloramines; pesticide; asthma; and beyond Antonovsky's sense of coherence. Exposure to smoke and some substances found in cleaning products, such as benzalkonium chloride, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and monoethanolamine, offer potential risks for sensitization and exacerbation of asthma. The vast majority of the seven main inhaled products investigated provoke irritative inflammatory reactions and oxidative imbalance in the respiratory epithelium. In turn, the caregiver's role is essential in health promotion and the clinical control of paediatric asthma. From a salutogenic point of view, pollutants and irritants inhaled at home should be carefully investigated in the clinical history so that strategies to remove or reduce exposures can be used by caregivers of children and adolescents with asthma.

Maternal exposure to particulate matter from duck houses restricts fetal growth due to inflammatory damage and oxidative stress

The composition of particulate matter (PM) in poultry farms differs significantly from that of atmospheric PM as there is a higher concentration of microbes on farms. To assess the health effects of PM from poultry farms on pregnant animals, we collected PM from duck houses using a particulate sampler, processed it via centrifugation and vacuum concentration, and subsequently exposed the mice to airborne PM at 0.48 mg/m3 (i.e., low concentration group) and 1.92 mg/m3 (i.e., high concentration group) on the fifth day of pregnancy. After exposure until the twentieth day of pregnancy or spontaneous delivery, mice were euthanized for sampling. The effects of PM from duck houses on the pregnancy toxicity of mice were analyzed using histopathological analysis, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The results showed that exposure to PM had adverse effects on pregnant mice that reduced their feed intake in both groups. Microscopic lesions were observed in the lungs and placentas of pregnant mice, and the lesions worsened with increased PM concentrations, as shown by alveolar wall thickening, the infiltration of inflammatory cells in pulmonary interstitium, congestion, edema, and cellular degeneration of placenta. In pregnant mice in the high concentration group, exposure to PM significantly increased the expression of inflammatory cytokines in the lungs and placentas, caused oxidative stress, and decreased estrogen level in the blood. Exposure to PM also resulted in the reduced litter sizes of pregnant mice and shorter body and tail lengths in the fetuses delivered. Beyond that, exposure to PM significantly downregulated the levels of antioxidant factor superoxide dismutase and neurotrophic factor Ngf in the brains of fetuses. Collectively, exposure to a high concentration of PM by inhalation among pregnant mice caused significant pregnancy toxicity that led to abnormal fetal development due to inflammatory damage and oxidative stress. These findings established a foundation for future studies on the underlying mechanisms of pregnancy toxicity induced by exposure to PM.

Double blind randomized controlled trial measuring the efficacy of nebulized steroid at half dose in comparison to high volume squeeze bottle steroid irrigation in management of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis

KEY POINTS

Nebulized budesonide is effective at half dose compared to budesonide irrigation in CRS. Nasal nebulizers provide an alternative for delivery of topical steroids to the sinuses.

Reactive Oxygen Species Formation and Peroxide and Carbonyl Decomposition in Aqueous Photolysis of Secondary Organic Aerosols

The mechanism and kinetics of reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation when atmospheric secondary organic aerosol (SOA) is exposed to solar radiation are poorly understood. In this study, we combined an in situ UV-vis irradiation system with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy to characterize the photolytic formation of ROS in aqueous extracts of SOA formed by the oxidation of isoprene, α-pinene, α-terpineol, and toluene. We observed substantial formation of free radicals, including •OH, superoxide (HO2•), and organic radicals (R•/RO•) upon irradiation. Compared to dark conditions, the radical yield was enhanced by a factor of ∼30 for •OH and by a factor of 2-10 for superoxide radicals, and we observed the emergence of organic radicals. Total peroxide measurements showed substantial decreases of peroxide contents after photoirradiation, indicating that organic peroxides can be an important source of the observed radicals. A liquid chromatography interfaced with high-resolution mass spectrometry was used to detect a number of organic radicals in the form of adducts with a spin trap, BMPO. The types of detected radicals and aqueous photolysis of model compounds indicated that photolysis of carbonyls by Norrish type I mechanisms plays an important role in the organic radical formation. The photolytic ROS formation serves as the driving force for cloud and fog processing of SOA.

Cohort profile: The Assessing Imperial Valley Respiratory Health and the Environment (AIRE) study

BACKGROUND

The Children's Assessing Imperial Valley Respiratory Health and the Environment (AIRE) study is a prospective cohort study of environmental influences on respiratory health in a rural, southeastern region of California (CA), which aims to longitudinally examine the contribution of a drying saline lake to adverse health impacts in children.

OBJECTIVES

This cohort was established through a community-academic partnership with the goal of assessing the health effects of childhood exposures to wind-blown particulate matter (PM) and inform public health action. We hypothesize that local PM sources are related to poorer children's respiratory health.

POPULATION

Elementary school children in Imperial Valley, CA.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

METHODS

Between 2017 and 2019, we collected baseline information on 731 children, then follow-up assessments yearly or twice-yearly since 2019. Data have been collected on children's respiratory health, demographics, household characteristics, physical activity and lifestyle, via questionnaires completed by parents or primary caregivers. In-person measurements, conducted since 2019, repeatedly assessed lung function, height, weight and blood pressure. Exposure to air pollutants has been assessed by multiple methods and individually assigned to participants using residential and school addresses. Health data will be linked to ambient and local sources of PM, during and preceding the study period to understand how spatiotemporal trends in these environmental exposures may relate to respiratory health.

PRELIMINARY RESULTS

Analyses of respiratory symptoms indicate a high prevalence of allergies, bronchitic symptoms and wheezing. Asthma diagnosis was reported in 24% of children at enrolment, which exceeds both CA state and US national prevalence estimates for children.

CONCLUSIONS

The Children's AIRE cohort, while focused on the health impacts of the drying Salton Sea and air quality in Imperial Valley, is poised to elucidate the growing threat of drying saline lakes and wind-blown dust sources to respiratory health worldwide, as sources of wind-blown dust emerge in our changing climate.

Particulate matters 2.5 induce tumor progression in lung cancer by increasing the activity of hnRNPA2B1 resulting in retarding mRNA decay of oxidative phosphorylation

Particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) has been implicated in lung injury and various cancers, yet its precise mechanistic role remains elusive. To elucidate the key signaling pathways underpinning PM2.5-induced lung cancer progression, we embarked on a study examining the impact of PM2.5 both in vitro and in vivo. Lung cancer cell lines, A549 and H157, were employed for the in vitro investigations. Overexpression or knockdown techniques targeting the hnRNPA2B1 protein were implemented. Lung cancer cells were treated with a medium containing PM2.5 and subsequently prepared for in vitro evaluations. Cell growth, invasion, and migration were gauged using transwell and CCK-8 assays. Apoptosis was ascertained through flow cytometry and western blotting of pertinent proteins. Seahorse analyses probed the influence of PM2.5 on lung cancer energy metabolism. The RNA stability assay was employed to discern the impact of PM2.5 on the stability of oxidative phosphorylation-related genes in lung cancer. Our findings revealed that PM2.5 augmented cell proliferation, migration, and invasion rates. Similarly, a diminished apoptosis rate was observed in PM2.5-treated cells. Elevated expression of hnRNPA2B1 was detected in lung cancer cells exposed to PM2.5. Moreover, in cells treated with PM2.5, hnRNPA2B1 knockdown markedly curtailed cell proliferation by inducing G1-S cell cycle arrest and bolstered lung cancer cell apoptosis in vitro; it also curbed xenograft tumor growth. Mechanistically, our data suggest that PM2.5 undermines the stability of mRNA transcripts associated with oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and augments the formation of processing bodies (P-bodies), leading to an upsurge in OXPHOS levels. In conclusion, PM2.5 appears to drive lung cancer progression and migration by modulating the energy metabolism of lung cancer in a hnRNPA2B1-dependent manner.

Differential effects of size-specific particulate matter on frailty transitions among middle-aged and older adults in China: findings from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), 2015-2018

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to assess the long-term effects of size-specific particulate matter (PM) on frailty transitions in middle-aged and older Chinese adults.

METHODS

We included 13 910 participants ≥45 y of age from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) for 2015 and 2018 who were classified into three categories in 2015 according to their frailty states: robust, prefrail and frail. Air quality data were obtained from the National Urban Air Quality Real-time Publishing Platform. A two-level logistic regression model was used to examine the association between concentrations of PM and frailty transitions.

RESULTS

At baseline, the total number of robust, prefrail and frail participants were 7516 (54.0%), 4324 (31.1%) and 2070 (14.9%), respectively. Significant associations were found between PM concentrations and frailty transitions. For each 10 μg/m3 increase in the 3-y averaged 2.5-μm PM (PM2.5) concentrations, the risk of worsening in frailty increased in robust (odds ratio [OR] 1.06 [95% confidence interval {CI} 1.01 to 1.12]) and prefrail (OR 1.07 [95% CI 1.01 to 1.13]) participants, while the probability of improvement in frailty in prefrail (OR 0.91 [95% CI 0.84 to 0.98]) participants decreased. In addition, the associations of PM10 and coarse fraction of PM with frailty transitions showed similar patterns.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term exposure to PM was associated with higher risks of worsening and lower risks of improvement in frailty among middle-aged and older adults in China.

Evaluation of the amelioration effect of Ganoderma formosanum extract on delaying PM2.5 damage to lung macrophages

SCOPE

Particulate matter (PM) contains toxic organic matter and heavy metals that enter the entire body through blood flow and may cause mortality. Ganoderma formosanum mycelium, a valuable traditional Chinese medicine that has been used since ancient times, contains various active ingredients that can effectively impede inflammatory responses on murine alveolar macrophages induced by PM particles.

METHODS AND RESULTS

An experimental study assessing the effect of G. formosanum mycelium extract's water fraction (WA) on PM-exposed murine alveolar macrophages using ROS measurement shows that WA reduces intracellular ROS by 12% and increases cell viability by 16% when induced by PM particles. According to RNA-Sequencing, western blotting, and real-time qPCR are conducted to analyze the metabolic pathway. The WA reduces the protein ratio in p-NF-κB/NF-κB by 18% and decreases the expression of inflammatory genes, including IL-1β by 38%, IL-6 by 29%, and TNF-α by 19%. Finally, the identification of seven types of anti-inflammatory compounds in the WA fraction is achieved through UHPLC-ESI-Orbitrap-Elite-MS/MS analysis. These compounds include anti-inflammatory compounds, namely thiamine, adenosine 5'-monophosphate, pipecolic acid, L-pyroglutamic acid, acetyl-L-carnitine, D-mannitol, and L-malic acid.

CONCLUSIONS

The study suggests that the WA has the potential to alleviate the PM -induced damage in alveolar macrophages, demonstrating its anti-inflammatory properties.

A quantitative analysis of surgical smoke-derived particulate matter and formaldehyde exposure during spine surgery: a possible occupational hazard

OBJECTIVE

Since its introduction, electrocautery has served as a valuable surgical tool, enabling precise tissue cutting and effective hemostasis in spine surgery. While there have been numerous efforts to elucidate the possible hazardous effects of surgical smoke in various surgical fields, there has been very little discussion in the context of spine surgery. The objective of this study was to measure and conduct a quantitative analysis of the particulate matter (PM) of different sizes and of formaldehyde (HCHO) generated by smoke during spine surgeries.

METHODS

This study included a consecutive series of patients who underwent 1- or 2-level lumbar spinal fusion surgery between June and November 2021. Particle counts were measured using a particle counter, specifically focusing on six different sizes of PM (0.3, 0.5, 1, 2.5, 5, and 10 µm). Additionally, measurements were taken for HCHO in parts per million (ppm). Monopolar cautery was used in the surgical setting. Systematic measurements were conducted at specific time points during the surgical procedures to assess the levels of PM and HCHO. Furthermore, the efficacy of surgical smoke suction was evaluated by comparing the PM levels with and without adjacent placement of suction.

RESULTS

This study involved 35 patients, with measurements of both PM and HCHO taken in 27 cases. The remaining 8 cases had measurements only for PM. In this study, statistically significant quantitative changes in various PM sizes were observed when electrocautery was used during spine surgery (12.3 ± 1.7 vs 1975.7 ± 422.8, 3.4 ± 0.5 vs 250.1 ± 45.7, and 1.9 ± 0.2 vs 78.1 ± 13.3, respectively, for 2.5-, 5-, and 10-µm PM; p < 0.05). The level of HCHO was also significantly higher (0.085 ± 0.006 vs 0.131 ± 0.014 ppm, p < 0.05) with electrocautery use. Utilization of adjacent suction of surgical smoke during electrocautery demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in PM levels.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study highlight the potential surgical smoke-related hazards that spine surgeons may be exposed to in the operating room. Implementing simple interventions, such as utilizing nearby suction, can effectively minimize the amount of toxic surgical smoke and mitigate these risks.

Association of Long-Term Exposure to Ambient Air Pollution With the Risk of Acute Primary Angle Closure

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between long-term exposure to ambient air pollutants and the risk of acute primary angle closure (APAC).

Methods

Two hundred eighty-one (281) patients with APAC and 730 age- and sex-matched controls hospitalized between January 2017 and December 2019 were enrolled in this retrospective case-control study. Residential exposure to ambient air pollutants, including fine particulate matter (PM2.5), inhalable particulate (PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone were estimated by satellite-models or ground measurement. Multivariate regression analyses explored the association between annual air pollutants exposure and the risk of APAC.

Results

Of the 1011 participants (31.1% were male subjects), the average age was 64.0 years. Long-term exposure to PM2.5, PM10, and SO2 were significantly associated with an increased risk of APAC. The adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for each interquartile range (IQR) increment of PM2.5, PM10, and SO2 were 1.28 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.06-1.57), 1.26 (95% CI = 1.06-1.50), and 1.30 (95% CI = 1.04-1.62) separately, after controlling for confounders. Robust associations were observed for a longer lag 2-year exposure.

Conclusions

Long-term exposure to PM2.5, PM10, and SO2 was associated with an increased risk of APAC in a Chinese population. Our findings provide epidemiological implications on the adverse effects of air pollution on ocular diseases.

Translational Relevance

Long-term exposure to ambient air pollutants increased the risk of APAC.

Nationwide estimation of daily ambient PM2.5 from 2008 to 2020 at 1 km2 in India using an ensemble approach

High-resolution assessment of historical levels is essential for assessing the health effects of ambient air pollution in the large Indian population. The diversity of geography, weather patterns, and progressive urbanization, combined with a sparse ground monitoring network makes it challenging to accurately capture the spatiotemporal patterns of ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution in India. We developed a model for daily average ambient PM2.5 between 2008 and 2020 based on monitoring data, meteorology, land use, satellite observations, and emissions inventories. Daily average predictions at each 1 km × 1 km grid from each learner were ensembled using a Gaussian process regression with anisotropic smoothing over spatial coordinates, and regression calibration was used to account for exposure error. Cross-validating by leaving monitors out, the ensemble model had an R2 of 0.86 at the daily level in the validation data and outperformed each component learner (by 5-18%). Annual average levels in different zones ranged between 39.7 μg/m3 (interquartile range: 29.8-46.8) in 2008 and 30.4 μg/m3 (interquartile range: 22.7-37.2) in 2020, with a cross-validated (CV)-R2 of 0.94 at the annual level. Overall mean absolute daily errors (MAE) across the 13 years were between 14.4 and 25.4 μg/m3. We obtained high spatial accuracy with spatial R2 greater than 90% and spatial MAE ranging between 7.3-16.5 μg/m3 with relatively better performance in urban areas at low and moderate elevation. We have developed an important validated resource for studying PM2.5 at a very fine spatiotemporal resolution, which allows us to study the health effects of PM2.5 across India and to identify areas with exceedingly high levels.

Assessment of emissions and exposure in 3D printing workplaces in Taiwan

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is an emerging and booming industry in Taiwan. Compared to traditional manufacturing, 3D printing has various advantages, such as advanced customization, additive manufacturing, reduced mold opening time, and reduced consumption of precursors. In this study, the real-time monitoring of particulate matter (PM) and total volatile organic compound (TVOC) emissions from various filaments is investigated using fused deposition modeling with material extrusion technology, a liquid-crystal display, a stereolithography apparatus based on vat photopolymerization technology, and binder jetting for occupational settings. An exposure assessment for nearby workers using the 3D printing process was performed, and improvement measures were recommended. Nine 3D printing fields were measured. The generation rate of ultrafine particles ranged from 1.19 × 1010 to 4.90 × 1012 #/min, and the geometric mean particle size ranged from 30.91 to 55.50 nm. The average concentration of ultrafine particles ranged from 2.31 × 103 to 7.36 × 104 #/cm3, and the PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations in each field ranged from 0.74 ± 0.27 to 12.46 ± 5.61 μg/m3 and from 2.39 ± 0.60 to 30.65 ± 21.26 μg/m3, respectively. The TVOC concentration ranged from 0.127 ± 0.012 to 1.567 ± 0.172 ppm. The respiratory deposition (RDUFPs) dose ranged from 2.02 × 1013 to 5.54 × 1014 nm2/day. Depending on the operating conditions, appropriate control and protective measures should be employed to protect workers' health.

Nature-Inspired Regenerative Fine-Dust-Catching Coatings to Improve Air Quality

Increased particulate matter (PM) concentrations in our ambient air are the cause of various life-threatening diseases and consequently need to be reduced to nonhazardous levels. The natural PM removal capabilities of leaves inspired the development of a low-cost coating technology that exploits natural weather phenomena for its PM catching and removal processes. The herein presented coating is based on microparticle-filled silicone with optimized chemical and physical surface properties. Its surface roughness was tuned using differently sized spray-dried particles, and its surface contact angle was adjusted through silicone tensides, polar ether groups incorporated in the silicon backbone, and the used amount of spray-dried particles. In such a way, optimized silicone coatings showed in laboratory experiments improved catching abilities (>300% relative to glass surfaces), a full retention of adsorbed PM during wind events, and the formation of large PM aggregates. Upon (simulated) rain events, these coatings were regenerated, and the content of harmful PM of various sizes dispersed in water was reduced between ∼73 and 100%. Furthermore, an outdoor test over 100 days showed the functioning of the coating under real-world conditions. These regenerative coatings are readily applicable on diverse surfaces and do not require any further technical infrastructure. Thus, they present an extension of the toolbox for PM reduction technologies.

The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on air particulate matter exposure and heart attacks: a 5-year retrospective cohort study in Taiwan (2017-2021)

Background

Heart attacks including acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) caused from the particulate matter (PM) and air pollutant exposures are positively associated with regional air pollution severity and individual exposure. The exceptional coronavirus disease epidemic of 2019 (COVID-19) may enhance the air conditions in areas under COVID-19 pandemic. We sought to study the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on air particulate matter (PM) exposure and heart attacks in Taiwan.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was conducted in one teaching hospital in Taichung, Taiwan. We examined emergency patients diagnosed with acute STEMI and ADHF from January 1, 2017, to March 31, 2020, (i.e., before the COVID-19 pandemic) and from April 1, 2020, to December 31, 2021, (after the COVID-19 pandemic). The effects of particulate matter with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) and PM10 as well as temperature and humidity on environmental air pollutants were recorded. The analysis was performed with a unidirectional case-crossover research design and a conditional logistic regression model.

Results

Both PM2.5 and PM10 levels had a positive association with the risk of acute STEMI before the COVID-19 pandemic (PM2.5 adjusted odds ratio (OR): 1.016, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.003-1.032 and PM10 adjusted OR: 1.009, 95% CI: 1.001-1.018) and ADHF (PM2.5 adjusted OR: 1.046, 95% CI: 1.034-1.067 and PM10 adjusted OR: 1.023, 95% CI: 1.027-1.047). Moreover, the results demonstrated that PM2.5 and PM10 were not associated with the risk of acute STEMI or ADHF after the COVID-19 pandemic. Reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 levels after the COVID-19 pandemic were noted. Hospital admissions for acute STEMI (7.4 and 5.8/per month) and ADHF (9.7 and 8.2/per month) also decreased (21.6 and 15.5%) after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusion

In Taiwan, paradoxical reductions in PM2.5 and PM10 levels during the COVID-19 pandemic may decrease the number of hospital admissions for acute STEMI and ADHF. As the COVID-19 pandemic eases, the condition of air pollution may gradually become worse again. The governments should formulate better policies to improve the health of the public and the quality of the air.

The Role of Neighborhood Air Pollution in Disparate Racial and Ethnic Asthma Acute Care Use

RATIONALE

The share of Black or Latinx residents in a census tract remains associated with asthma-related Emergency Department visit rates after controlling for socioeconomic factors. The extent to which evident disparities relate to within-city heterogeneity of long-term air pollution exposure remains unclear.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the role of intraurban spatial variability of air pollution in asthma acute care use disparity.

METHODS

An administrative database was used to define census tract population-based incidence rates of asthma-related Emergency Department visits. We estimate the association between census tract incidence rates and (a) average fine and coarse particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2); and (b) racial/ethnic composition using generalized linear models controlling for socioeconomic and housing covariates. We additionally examine for attenuation of incidence risk ratios (IRR) associated with race/ethnicity when controlling for air pollution exposure.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

PM2.5, PM10, and SO2 are each associated with census tract-level incidence rates of asthma-related ED visits and multipollutant models show evidence of independent risk associated with PM10 and SO2. Association between census tract incidence rates and Black resident share (IRR [CI] = 1.51 [1.48-1.54]) is attenuated by 24% when accounting for air pollution (1.39 [1.35-1.42]), and the association with Latinx resident share (1.11 [1.09-1.13]) is attenuated by 32% (1.08 [1.06-1.10]).

CONCLUSIONS

Neighborhood-level rates of asthma acute care use are associated with local air pollution. Controlling for air pollution attenuates associations with census tract racial/ethnic composition, suggesting that intracity variability in air pollution could contribute to neighborhood-to-neighborhood asthma morbidity disparities.

The Effect of Air Pollution and Climate Change on Sleep

Research has shown that air pollution and climate change affect both the duration and quality of sleep; threatens physical and mental health especially through respiratory, cardiovascular, and nervous systems; and shortens life expectancy. This review will begin with overall information on air pollution, climate change and sleep. Then, it will proceed with the effects of these two environmental issues on sleep, in the light of previous research.

The effect of PM2.5 on acute sinusitis: A population-based study

KEY POINTS

PM2.5 exposure is a risk factor for the development of acute sinusitis. PM2.5 exposure affects acute sinusitis in a dose response fashion.

A Three-Wavelength Optical Sensor for Measuring the Multi-Particle-Size Channel Mass Concentration of Thermal Power Plant Emissions

Emissions from thermal power plants have always been the central consideration for environmental protection. Existing optical sensors in thermal power plants usually measure the total mass concentration of the particulate matter (PM) by a single-wavelength laser, bearing intrinsic errors owing to the variation in particle size distribution (PSD). However, the total mass concentration alone cannot characterize all the harmful effects of the air pollution caused by the power plant. Therefore, it is necessary to measure the mass concentration and PSD simultaneously, based on which we can obtain multi-particle-size channel mass concentration. To achieve this, we designed an optical sensor based on the three-wavelength technique and tested its performance in a practical environment. Results showed that the prototype cannot only correctly measure the mass concentration of the emitted PM but also determine the mean diameter and standard deviation of the PSDs. Hence, the mass concentrations of PM10, PM2.5, and PM1 are calculated, and the air pollutants emission by a thermal power plant can be estimated comprehensively.

Measuring long-term exposure to wildfire PM2.5 in California: Time-varying inequities in environmental burden

Wildfires have become more frequent and intense due to climate change and outdoor wildfire fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations differ from relatively smoothly varying total PM2.5. Thus, we introduced a conceptual model for computing long-term wildfire PM2.5 and assessed disproportionate exposures among marginalized communities. We used monitoring data and statistical techniques to characterize annual wildfire PM2.5 exposure based on intermittent and extreme daily wildfire PM2.5 concentrations in California census tracts (2006 to 2020). Metrics included: 1) weeks with wildfire PM2.5 < 5 μg/m3; 2) days with non-zero wildfire PM2.5; 3) mean wildfire PM2.5 during peak exposure week; 4) smoke waves (≥2 consecutive days with <15 μg/m3 wildfire PM2.5); and 5) mean annual wildfire PM2.5 concentration. We classified tracts by their racial/ethnic composition and CalEnviroScreen (CES) score, an environmental and social vulnerability composite measure. We examined associations of CES and racial/ethnic composition with the wildfire PM2.5 metrics using mixed-effects models. Averaged 2006 to 2020, we detected little difference in exposure by CES score or racial/ethnic composition, except for non-Hispanic American Indian and Alaska Native populations, where a 1-SD increase was associated with higher exposure for 4/5 metrics. CES or racial/ethnic × year interaction term models revealed exposure disparities in some years. Compared to their California-wide representation, the exposed populations of non-Hispanic American Indian and Alaska Native (1.68×, 95% CI: 1.01 to 2.81), white (1.13×, 95% CI: 0.99 to 1.32), and multiracial (1.06×, 95% CI: 0.97 to 1.23) people were over-represented from 2006 to 2020. In conclusion, during our study period in California, we detected disproportionate long-term wildfire PM2.5 exposure for several racial/ethnic groups.

Particulate Matter Induces Oxidative Stress and Ferroptosis in Human Lung Epithelial Cells

Numerous toxicological studies have highlighted the association between urban particulate matter (PM) and increased respiratory infections and lung diseases. The adverse impact on the lungs is directly linked to the complex composition of particulate matter, initiating reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and consequent lipid peroxidation. Excessive ROS, particularly within mitochondria, can destroy subcellular organelles through various pathways. In this study, we confirmed the induction of ferroptosis, an iron-dependent cell death, upon exposure to an urban PM using RT-qPCR and signaling pathway analysis. We used KRISS CRM 109-02-004, the certified reference material for the analysis of particulate matter, produced by the Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS). To validate that ferroptosis causes lung endothelial toxicity, we assessed intracellular mitochondrial potential, ROS overproduction, lipid peroxidation, and specific ferroptosis biomarkers. Following exposure to the urban PM, a significant increase in ROS generation and a decrease in mitochondrial potential were observed. Furthermore, it induced hallmarks of ferroptosis, including the accumulation of lipid peroxidation, the loss of antioxidant defenses, and cellular iron accumulation. In addition, the occurrence of oxidative stress as a key feature of ferroptosis was confirmed by increased expression levels of specific oxidative stress markers such as NQO1, CYP1B1, FTH1, SOD2, and NRF. Finally, a significant increase in key ferroptosis markers was observed, including xCT/SLC7A11, NQO1, TRIM16, HMOX-1, FTL, FTH1, CYP1B1, CHAC1, and GPX4. This provides evidence that elevated ROS levels induce oxidative stress, which ultimately triggers ferroptosis. In conclusion, our results show that the urban PM, KRISS CRM, induces cellular and mitochondrial ROS production, leading to oxidative stress and subsequent ferroptosis. These results suggest that it may induce ferroptosis through ROS generation and may offer potential strategies for the treatment of lung diseases.

The biological interplay between air pollutants and miRNAs regulation in cancer

Air pollution, especially fine particulate matter (PM2.5, with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 2.5 μm), represents a risk factor for human health. Many studies, regarding cancer onset and progression, correlated with the short and/or long exposition to PM2.5. This is mainly mediated by the ability of PM2.5 to reach the pulmonary alveoli by penetrating into the blood circulation. This review recapitulates the methodologies used to study PM2.5 in cellular models and the downstream effects on the main molecular pathways implicated in cancer. We report a set of data from the literature, that describe the involvement of miRNAs or long noncoding RNAs on the main biological processes involved in oxidative stress, inflammation, autophagy (PI3K), cell proliferation (NFkB, STAT3), and EMT (Notch, AKT, Wnt/β-catenin) pathways. microRNAs, as well as gene expression profile, responds to air pollution environment modulating some key genes involved in epigenetic modification or in key mediators of the biological processes described below. In this review, we provide some scientific evidences about the thigh correlation between miRNAs dysregulation, PM2.5 exposition, and gene pathways involved in cancer progression.

Cardiovascular Benefit of Statin Use Against Air Pollutant Exposure in Older Adults

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Little is known about the cardiovascular benefit of statin use against ambient air pollution among older adults who are at higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) potentially owing to age-related declines in cardiovascular functions along with other risk factors.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This retrospective, population-based cohort study consisted of adults aged 60 years and older free of CVD at baseline identified from the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) database linked to the National Ambient Air Monitoring Information System (NAMIS) for average daily exposure to PM10 and PM2.5 in 2015 in the major metropolitan areas in the Republic of Korea. Follow-up period began on January 1, 2016 and lasted until December 31, 2021. Cox proportional hazards model was used to evaluate association of cardiovascular benefit with statin use against different levels of air pollutant exposure. Of 1,229,444 participants aged 60 years and older (mean age, 67.4; 37.7% male), 377,076 (30.7%) were identified as statin-users. During 11,963,322 person-years (PY) of follow-up, a total of 86,018 incident stroke events occurred (719.0 events per 100,000 PYs). Compared to statin non-user exposed to high level of PM10 (>50 µg/m3) and PM2.5 (>25 µg/m3), statin users had 20% (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 0.80; 95% confidence intervals [CI], 0.75 to 0.85) and 17% (adjusted HR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.80 to 0.86) lower adjusted risk of incident stroke for PM10 and PM2.5, respectively. Similar risk reduction for incident CVD was also found among statin-users exposed to low or moderate level of PM10 (≤50 µg/m3) and PM2.5 (≤25 µg/m3) exposure.

CONCLUSION

Among adults aged 60 years and older with high and low or moderate levels of exposure to PM10 and PM2.5, statin use was associated with a significantly lower risk of stroke.

Comparative microbiome analysis of beef cattle, the feedyard environment, and airborne particulate matter as a function of probiotic and antibiotic use, and change in pen environment

Introduction

Intensive beef cattle production systems are frequently implicated as a source of bacteria that can be transferred to nearby humans and animals via effluent water, manure used as fertilizer, or airborne particulate matter. It is crucial to understand microbial population dynamics due to manure pack desiccation, antibiotic usage, and antibiotic alternatives within beef cattle and their associated feedyard environment. Understanding how bacterial communities change in the presence of antibiotics can also improve management practices for reducing the spread of foodborne bacteria.

Methods

In this study, we aimed to compare the microbiomes within cattle feces, the feedyard environment and artificially produced airborne particulate matter as a function of pen change and treatment with tylosin or probiotics. We utilized 16S rRNA sequencing to compare bacterial communities among sample types, study days, and treatment groups.

Results

Bacterial community diversity varied as a function of sampling day and pen change (old or new) within fecal and manure pack samples. Manure pack samples from old pens and new pens contained diverse communities of bacteria on days 0 and 84; however, by day 119 of the study these taxonomic differences were less evident. Particulate matter samples exhibited significant differences in community diversity and predominant bacterial taxa compared to the manure pack they originated from. Treatment with tylosin did not meaningfully impact bacterial communities among fecal, environmental, or particulate matter samples; however, minor differences in bacterial community structure were observed in feces from cattle treated with probiotics.

Discussion

This study was the first to characterize and compare microbial communities within feces, manure pack, and airborne particulate matter from the same location and as a function of tylosin and probiotic treatment, and pen change. Although fecal and environmental samples are commonly used in research studies and other monitoring programs to infer public health risk of bacteria and antimicrobial resistance determinants from feedyard environments, our study suggests that these samples may not be appropriate to infer public health risk associated with airborne particulate matter.

Air Pollution and Chronic Eye Disease in Adults: A Scoping Review

PURPOSE

We conducted a scoping review of studies examining ambient air pollution as a risk factor for chronic eye disease influencing the lens, retina, and intraocular pressure in adults.

METHODS

Terms related to air pollution and eye disease outcomes were used to search for publications on Embase, Web of Science Core Collection, Global Health, PubMed, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from January 1, 2010, through April 11, 2022.

RESULTS

We identified 27 articles, focusing on the following non-mutually exclusive outcomes: cataract (n = 9), presbyopia (n = 1), retinal vein occlusion or central retinal arteriolar and venular equivalents (n = 5), intraocular pressure (IOP) (n = 3), glaucoma (n = 5), age-related macular degeneration (AMD) (n = 5), diabetic retinopathy (n = 2), and measures of retinal morphology (n = 3). Study designs included cross-sectional (n = 16), case-control (n = 4), and longitudinal (n = 7). Air pollutants were measured in 50% and 95% of the studies on lens and retina or IOP, respectively, and these exposures were assigned to geographic locations. Most research was conducted in global regions with high exposure to air pollution. Consistent associations suggested a possibly increased risk of cataract and retina-associated chronic eye disease with increasing exposure to particulate matter (PM2.5-PM10), NO2, NOx, and SO2. Associations with O3 were less consistent.

CONCLUSIONS

Accumulating research suggests air pollution may be a modifiable risk factor for chronic eye diseases of the lens and retina. The number of studies on each specific lens- or retina-related outcome is limited. Guidelines regarding the role of air pollution in chronic eye disease do not exist.

Disease Burden and Prediction Analysis of Tracheal, Bronchus, and Lung Cancer Attributable to Residential Radon, Solid Fuels, and Particulate Matter Pollution Under Different Sociodemographic Transitions From 1990 to 2030

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the impact of epidemiologic and sociodemographic changes in tracheal, bronchus, and lung cancer associated with residential radon, solid fuels, and particulate matter.

RESEARCH QUESTION

What are the influencing factors of tracheal, bronchus, and lung cancer disease burden attributable to the three pollutants?

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Data were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease 2019. Age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and sociodemographic index (SDI) values were collected from 21 regions, and restricted cubic splines and quantile regression were used to investigate the relationship between ASMR or age-standardized disability-adjusted life years rate (ASDR), and SDI. Additionally, five countries with different SDIs were selected, and the Bayesian age-period-cohort model was used to predict the ASMR trends from 2020 to 2030.

RESULTS

High SDI quintiles were associated with increased residential radon pollution. The disease burden attributed to these three pollutants was particularly severe in the middle SDI quintiles. Older adults aged 80 to 89 years had the highest age-specific mortality, and the disease burden was greater in male patients than in female patients with these cancers attributed to the pollutants. The highest ASMR attributable to particulate matter when the SDI was 0.7. As the SDI increased, the disease burden caused by radon increased, whereas the burden caused by solid fuels decreased. Projections have indicated a rise in the death burden in patients with this cancer from particulate pollution in China, India, and Uganda over the next decade.

INTERPRETATION

The disease burden of tracheal, bronchus, and lung cancer attributed to the three pollutants was influenced by SDI, sex, and age. Older men are more susceptible to be affected. More preventive interventions may be required for men at younger ages to reduce the high death burden of older men. However, it is necessary to give due attention to women in specific countries in the future.

Different airborne particulates trigger distinct immune pathways leading to peanut allergy in a mouse model

BACKGROUND

Environmental exposure to peanut through non-oral routes is a risk factor for peanut allergy. Early-life exposure to air pollutants, including particulate matter (PM), is associated with sensitization to foods through unknown mechanisms. We investigated whether PM promotes sensitization to environmental peanut and the development of peanut allergy in a mouse model.

METHODS

C57BL/6J mice were co-exposed to peanut and either urban particulate matter (UPM) or diesel exhaust particles (DEP) via the airways and assessed for peanut sensitization and development of anaphylaxis following peanut challenge. Peanut-specific CD4+ T helper (Th) cell responses were characterized by flow cytometry and Th cytokine production. Mice lacking select innate immune signaling genes were used to study mechanisms of PM-induced peanut allergy.

RESULTS

Airway co-exposure to peanut and either UPM- or DEP-induced systemic sensitization to peanut and anaphylaxis following peanut challenge. Exposure to UPM or DEP triggered activation and migration of lung dendritic cells to draining lymph nodes and induction of peanut-specific CD4+ Th cells. UPM- and DEP-induced distinct Th responses, but both stimulated expansion of T follicular helper (Tfh) cells essential for peanut allergy development. MyD88 signaling was critical for UPM- and DEP-induced peanut allergy, whereas TLR4 signaling was dispensable. DEP-induced peanut allergy and Tfh-cell differentiation depended on IL-1 but not IL-33 signaling, whereas neither cytokine alone was necessary for UPM-mediated sensitization.

CONCLUSION

Environmental co-exposure to peanut and PM induces peanut-specific Tfh cells and peanut allergy in mice.

Inhaled endotoxin induces a systemic neutrophil response without affecting cardiovascular measures in a randomized cross-over exposure study

OBJECTIVE

The gram-negative bacterial cell wall component endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide, LPS) is a key component of particulate matter (PM). PM exposure is associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, the contribution of individual components of PM to acute and chronic cardiovascular measures is not clear. This study examines whether systemic inflammation induced by LPS inhalation causes acute changes in cardiovascular physiology measures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this double blinded, placebo-controlled crossover study, fifteen adult volunteers underwent inhalation exposure to 20,000 EU Clinical Center Reference Endotoxin (CCRE). Peripheral blood and induced sputum neutrophils were obtained at baseline and six hours post-exposure. Blood pressure, measures of left ventricular function (ejection fraction (LVEF) and global longitudinal strain (LVGLS)), and indices of endothelial function (flow mediated dilation (FMD) and velocity time integral during hyperemia (VTIhyp)) were measured before and after treatment. Wilcoxon sign-rank tests and linear mixed models were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

In comparison with normal saline, LPS inhalation resulted in significant increases in peripheral blood and sputum neutrophils but was not associated with significant alterations in blood pressure, LVGLS, LVEF, FMD, or VTIhyp.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

In healthy adults, systemic inflammation after LPS inhalation was not associated with acute changes in cardiovascular physiology. Larger studies are needed to investigate the effects of other PM components on inflammation induced cardiovascular dysfunction.

Functional differences of cultivable leaf-associated microorganisms in the native Andean tree Gevuina avellana Mol. (Proteaceae) exposed to atmospheric contamination

AIMS

This study aimed to evaluate and describe the functional differences of cultivable bacteria and fungi inhabiting the leaves of Gevuina avellana Mol. (Proteaceae) in an urban area with high levels of air pollution and in a native forest in the southern Andes.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Phyllosphere microorganisms were isolated from the leaves of G. avellana, their plant growth-promoting capabilities were estimated along with their biocontrol potential and tolerance to metal(loid)s. Notably, plants from the urban area showed contrasting culturable leaf-associated microorganisms compared to those from the native area. The tolerance to metal(loid)s in bacteria range from 15 to 450 mg l-1 of metal(loid)s, while fungal strains showed tolerance from 15 to 625 mg l-1, being especially higher in the isolates from the urban area. Notably, the bacterial strain Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens and the fungal strain Cladosporium sp. exhibited several plant-growth-promoting properties along with the ability to inhibit the growth of phytopathogenic fungi.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, our study provides evidence that culturable taxa in G. avellana leaves is directly influenced by the sampling area. This change is likely due to the presence of atmospheric pollutants and diverse microbial symbionts that can be horizontally acquired from the environment.

Outdoor Ultrafine Particulate Matter and Risk of Lung Cancer in Southern California

Rationale: Particulate matter ⩽2.5 μm in aerodynamic diameter (PM2.5) is an established cause of lung cancer, but the association with ultrafine particulate matter (UFP; aerodynamic diameter < 0.1 μm) is unclear. Objectives: To investigate the association between UFP and lung cancer overall and by histologic subtype. Methods: The Los Angeles Ultrafines Study includes 45,012 participants aged ⩾50 years in southern California at enrollment (1995-1996) followed through 2017 for incident lung cancer (n = 1,770). We estimated historical residential ambient UFP number concentrations via land use regression and back extrapolation using PM2.5. In Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for smoking and other confounders, we estimated associations between 10-year lagged UFP (per 10,000 particles/cm3 and quartiles) and lung cancer overall and by major histologic subtype (adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and small cell carcinoma). We also evaluated relationships by smoking status, birth cohort, and historical duration at the residence. Measurements and Main Results: UFP was modestly associated with lung cancer risk overall (hazard ratio [HR], 1.03 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.99-1.08]). For adenocarcinoma, we observed a positive trend among men; risk was increased in the highest exposure quartile versus the lowest (HR, 1.39 [95% CI, 1.05-1.85]; P for trend = 0.01) and was also increased in continuous models (HR per 10,000 particles/cm3, 1.09 [95% CI, 1.00-1.18]), but no increased risk was apparent among women (P for interaction = 0.03). Adenocarcinoma risk was elevated among men born between 1925 and 1930 (HR, 1.13 [95% CI, 1.02-1.26] per 10,000) but not for other birth cohorts, and was suggestive for men with ⩾10 years of residential duration (HR, 1.11 [95% CI, 0.98-1.26]). We found no consistent associations for women or other histologic subtypes. Conclusions: UFP exposure was modestly associated with lung cancer overall, with stronger associations observed for adenocarcinoma of the lung.

Endogenous Nitric Oxide Can Enhance Oxidative Stress Caused by Air Pollutants and Explain Higher Susceptibility of Individuals with Inflammatory Disorders

Air pollution causes morbidity and excess mortality. In the epithelial lining fluid of the respiratory tract, air pollutants trigger a chemical reaction sequence that causes the formation of noxious hydroxyl radicals that drive oxidative stress. For hitherto unknown reasons, individuals with pre-existing inflammatory disorders are particularly susceptible to air pollution. Through detailed multiphase chemical kinetic analysis, we show that the commonly elevated concentrations of endogenous nitric oxide in diseased individuals can increase the production of hydroxyl radicals via peroxynitrite formation. Our findings offer a molecular rationale of how adverse health effects and oxidative stress caused by air pollutants may be exacerbated by inflammatory disorders.

Long-term air pollution and adverse meteorological factors might elevate the osteoporosis risk among adult Chinese

Objective

This study aims to investigate the relationship between exposure to air pollution and adverse meteorological factors, and the risk of osteoporosis.

Methods

We diagnosed osteoporosis by assessing bone mineral density through Dual-Energy X-ray absorptiometry in 2,361 participants from Jiangsu, China. Additionally, we conducted physical examinations, blood tests, and questionnaires. We evaluated pollution exposure levels using grid data, considering various lag periods (ranging from one to five years) based on participants' addresses. We utilized logistic regression analysis, adjusted for temperature, humidity, and individual factors, to examine the connections between osteoporosis and seven air pollutants: PM₁, PM₂.₅, PM₁₀, SO₂, NO₂, CO, and O₃. We assessed the robustness of our study through two-pollutant models and distributed lag non-linear models (DLNM) and explored susceptibility using stratified analyses.

Results

In Jiangsu, China, the prevalence of osteoporosis among individuals aged 40 and above was found to be 15.1%. A consistent association was observed between osteoporosis and the five-year average exposure to most pollutants, including PM₂.₅, PM₁₀, CO, and O₃. The effects of PM₁₀ and CO remained stable even after adjusting for the presence of a second pollutant. However, the levels of PM₁ and PM₂.₅ were significantly influenced by O₃ levels. Individuals aged 60 and above, those with a BMI of 25 or higher, and males were found to be more susceptible to the effects of air pollution. Interestingly, males showed a significantly higher susceptibility to PM₁ and PM₂.₅ compared to females. This study provides valuable insights into the long-term effects of air pollution on osteoporosis risk among the adult population in China.

Conclusion

This study indicates a potential association between air pollutants and osteoporosis, particularly with long-term exposure. The risk of osteoporosis induced by air pollution is found to be higher in individuals aged 60 and above, those with a BMI greater than 25, and males. These findings underscore the need for further research and public health interventions to mitigate the impact of air pollution on bone health.

Examining the moderating effect of perceived risk from particulate matter on outdoor sports participants: a theory of planned behavior perspective

Purpose

This study, drawing from the theoretical framework of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), examines the structural relationship among attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control (PBC), and behavioral intention. The study focuses on investigating how the perceived risk associated with particulate matter moderates the relationships between "attitudes and behavioral intention," "subjective norms and behavioral intention," and "PBC and behavioral intention" within the context of individuals engaged in outdoor sports.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from outdoor sports gatherings facilitated through a popular South Korean sports meetup application. Confirmatory factor analysis was employed to establish the construct validity of the measurement scale, assess factor loadings, averaged variance extracted (AVE), and construct reliability (CR). We also ensured the reliability of the measurement scale through Cronbach's α analysis. To achieve our research objectives, we utilized structural equation modeling with maximum likelihood estimation to examine the positive relationships under investigation. Additionally, we performed moderation analysis using the statistical software Jamovi.

Findings

The findings demonstrate the significant impacts of attitudes, subjective norms, and PBC on behavioral intention and reveal that perceived risk acts as a moderator, influencing the relationship between PBC and behavioral intention.