Pub Date : 2025-02-11DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114538
Minna Kempe , Ulla Haverinen-Shaughnessy , Pauli Tuoresmäki , Martin Täubel
While the urgent need for energy saving is triggering energy retrofit measures in buildings, there are still large gaps in our understanding of how these measures may impact indoor environmental quality, including particle, chemical, and microbial exposure, and ultimately human health. Here, we explore the effects of energy retrofits on the indoor microbiota characteristics of 193 apartments in 40 apartment buildings in two Northern European countries, Finland and Lithuania. Amplicon sequencing was used to characterise fungal and bacterial microbiota compositions in airborne, settled dust samples collected from apartments before and after energy retrofits, mostly targeting upgrades in insulation, heating and/or ventilation systems, and windows. Pairwise pre versus post testing of the most abundant fungal and bacterial taxa and diversity metrics, (generalized) linear mixed modelling ((G)LMM), and Analysis of Composition of Microbiomes (ANCOM) differential abundance testing were used to explore the effects of retrofits on indoor microbiota while accounting for confounding factors. The results indicated significant, country-dependent changes in the relative abundances of individual bacterial and fungal taxa, and a smaller proportion of human-sourced bacteria in Finnish buildings after compared to before retrofits. As in previous studies, factors such as outdoor temperature and type of ventilation were found to influence both bacterial and fungal composition indoors. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first dedicated, multi-country study on impacts of energy retrofits on indoor microbiota. Our novel findings offer a foundation for future research into this topic, including studies on the potential health relevance of energy retrofit associated indoor microbiome changes.
{"title":"Effects of energy retrofits on the indoor microbiota in Northern European apartments","authors":"Minna Kempe , Ulla Haverinen-Shaughnessy , Pauli Tuoresmäki , Martin Täubel","doi":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114538","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114538","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>While the urgent need for energy saving is triggering energy retrofit measures in buildings, there are still large gaps in our understanding of how these measures may impact indoor environmental quality, including particle, chemical, and microbial exposure, and ultimately human health. Here, we explore the effects of energy retrofits on the indoor microbiota characteristics of 193 apartments in 40 apartment buildings in two Northern European countries, Finland and Lithuania. Amplicon sequencing was used to characterise fungal and bacterial microbiota compositions in airborne, settled dust samples collected from apartments before and after energy retrofits, mostly targeting upgrades in insulation, heating and/or ventilation systems, and windows. Pairwise pre versus post testing of the most abundant fungal and bacterial taxa and diversity metrics, (generalized) linear mixed modelling ((G)LMM), and Analysis of Composition of Microbiomes (ANCOM) differential abundance testing were used to explore the effects of retrofits on indoor microbiota while accounting for confounding factors. The results indicated significant, country-dependent changes in the relative abundances of individual bacterial and fungal taxa, and a smaller proportion of human-sourced bacteria in Finnish buildings after compared to before retrofits. As in previous studies, factors such as outdoor temperature and type of ventilation were found to influence both bacterial and fungal composition indoors. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first dedicated, multi-country study on impacts of energy retrofits on indoor microbiota. Our novel findings offer a foundation for future research into this topic, including studies on the potential health relevance of energy retrofit associated indoor microbiome changes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13994,"journal":{"name":"International journal of hygiene and environmental health","volume":"265 ","pages":"Article 114538"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-02-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143388401","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-02-08DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114536
Kayla Iuliano , Mary Fox , John H. Munroe , Keeve Nachman , Thomas Burke , Bill Spannhake
The Environmental Protection Agency requires public water systems create an annual “Consumer Confidence Report” (CCR) for their customers. CCRs are meant to communicate water quality results, and are claimed to be the “centerpiece” of consumer right-to-know under the Safe Drinking Water Act. However, previous research indicates that CCRs are not understandable to members of the American public.
This work analyzes a nationally-representative sample of 60 CCRs, collected from water systems of different sizes, and from communities experiencing various levels of social vulnerability. The content and communication quality of CCRs were both evaluated, and the results were analyzed to determine whether CCR quality varies based on water system size or by the demographic served by the utility.
Poorer-quality CCRs were more likely to originate from smaller systems, or those serving vulnerable communities – the same systems that are more likely to experience drinking water violations. Additional legal requirements for CCR content and language could have a marked impact in improving the reports to meet the needs of the American public, by giving underserved communities an important document to use for advocating for themselves – which could promote greater environmental justice in public drinking water.
{"title":"“Is my tap water safe to drink?”: Examining the quality of a national sample of United States drinking water reports","authors":"Kayla Iuliano , Mary Fox , John H. Munroe , Keeve Nachman , Thomas Burke , Bill Spannhake","doi":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114536","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114536","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Environmental Protection Agency requires public water systems create an annual “Consumer Confidence Report” (CCR) for their customers. CCRs are meant to communicate water quality results, and are claimed to be the “centerpiece” of consumer right-to-know under the Safe Drinking Water Act. However, previous research indicates that CCRs are not understandable to members of the American public.</div><div>This work analyzes a nationally-representative sample of 60 CCRs, collected from water systems of different sizes, and from communities experiencing various levels of social vulnerability. The content and communication quality of CCRs were both evaluated, and the results were analyzed to determine whether CCR quality varies based on water system size or by the demographic served by the utility.</div><div>Poorer-quality CCRs were more likely to originate from smaller systems, or those serving vulnerable communities – the same systems that are more likely to experience drinking water violations. Additional legal requirements for CCR content and language could have a marked impact in improving the reports to meet the needs of the American public, by giving underserved communities an important document to use for advocating for themselves – which could promote greater environmental justice in public drinking water.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13994,"journal":{"name":"International journal of hygiene and environmental health","volume":"265 ","pages":"Article 114536"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-02-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143351298","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-02-03DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114526
Kayleigh Kornher , Carlos F. Gould , Jomel Meeko Manzano , Katie Baines , Georgia Kayser , Xin Tu , Jose Suarez-Torres , Danilo Martinez , Lisa A. Peterson , Carin A. Huset , Dana B. Barr , Jose R. Suarez-Lopez
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and pesticides are widespread environmental contaminants linked to adverse health outcomes; yet, their impact on lung function—individually and as mixtures—remains poorly understood. This study analyzed data from 381 adolescents in a longitudinal cohort in Ecuador, measuring serum levels of three PFAS (perfluorooctanoic acid [PFOA], perfluorooctanesulfonic acid [PFOS], and perfluorononanoic acid [PFNA]) and urinary levels of three pesticides (glyphosate, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid [2,4-D], and ethylene thiourea [ETU]). Spirometric lung function was assessed in 2016 and 2022. We evaluated associations between individual chemical levels and lung measures in log-log models estimated via ordinary least squares regression. We used quantile g-computation to assess the association of the mixture of PFAS and pesticides with lung function outcomes. After accounting for multiple hypothesis testing, and in a range of socioeconomic, geographic variables, and tobacco exposure, no statistically significant associations were observed for individual or combined exposures with lung function outcomes, after correcting for multiple hypothesis testing. Slight, non-significant increases in FEV1/FVC were noted for PFOA, glyphosate, and ETU levels between 2016 and 2022. Our findings suggest that PFAS and pesticides, either individually or in combination, may not have substantial effects on adolescent lung function in this mid-to-high-altitude agricultural population. Further research is needed to assess these relationships in larger cohorts and over longer exposure periods.
{"title":"Associations of PFAS and pesticides with lung function changes from adolescence to young adulthood in the ESPINA study","authors":"Kayleigh Kornher , Carlos F. Gould , Jomel Meeko Manzano , Katie Baines , Georgia Kayser , Xin Tu , Jose Suarez-Torres , Danilo Martinez , Lisa A. Peterson , Carin A. Huset , Dana B. Barr , Jose R. Suarez-Lopez","doi":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114526","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114526","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and pesticides are widespread environmental contaminants linked to adverse health outcomes; yet, their impact on lung function—individually and as mixtures—remains poorly understood. This study analyzed data from 381 adolescents in a longitudinal cohort in Ecuador, measuring serum levels of three PFAS (perfluorooctanoic acid [PFOA], perfluorooctanesulfonic acid [PFOS], and perfluorononanoic acid [PFNA]) and urinary levels of three pesticides (glyphosate, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid [2,4-D], and ethylene thiourea [ETU]). Spirometric lung function was assessed in 2016 and 2022. We evaluated associations between individual chemical levels and lung measures in log-log models estimated via ordinary least squares regression. We used quantile g-computation to assess the association of the mixture of PFAS and pesticides with lung function outcomes. After accounting for multiple hypothesis testing, and in a range of socioeconomic, geographic variables, and tobacco exposure, no statistically significant associations were observed for individual or combined exposures with lung function outcomes, after correcting for multiple hypothesis testing. Slight, non-significant increases in FEV1/FVC were noted for PFOA, glyphosate, and ETU levels between 2016 and 2022. Our findings suggest that PFAS and pesticides, either individually or in combination, may not have substantial effects on adolescent lung function in this mid-to-high-altitude agricultural population. Further research is needed to assess these relationships in larger cohorts and over longer exposure periods.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13994,"journal":{"name":"International journal of hygiene and environmental health","volume":"265 ","pages":"Article 114526"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-02-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143131780","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-01-31DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114527
Xiaohan Si , Liping Wang , Kerrie Mengersen , Chuchu Ye , Wenbiao Hu
Previous research has linked seasonal influenza transmission with particulate matters (PM2.5). However, the effect of PM2.5 on seasonal influenza transmission varied by region. This study aims explore how PM2.5 influenced seasonal influenza transmission in the elderly across 1330 counties in two Köppen Geiger climate zones in China, incorporating the socio-economic factors to enhance climate-driven early warning systems (EWS) for influenza. Data included weekly 2015–2019 influenza cases in those aged >65 from China's national influenza surveillance system for 1330 counties in two Köppen Geiger climate zones: Temperate, Hot Summer with Dry Winter (Cwa) and No Dry Season (Cfa). PM2.5 data from 2015 to 2019 were sourced from Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Services. Additional data on floating population, population density and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita were collected from pertinent departments. A Bayesian spatial autoregressive model assessed the association of PM2.5 and influenza transmission after adjustment of socio-economic factors. Our research results showed PM2.5 (per 1 μg/m³ increase) was linked to increased influenza transmission in the Cwa zone during winter season (Relative Risk (RR) = 1.023, 95% Credible Interval (CI):1.008–1.040) but not in the Cfa winter (RR = 1.003, 95% CI: 0.992–1.015). Floating population significantly enhanced transmission in both zones (highest RR = 1.362, 95% CI:1.181–1.583), while GDP per capita growth was associated with reduced transmission risk (highest RR = 0.619, 95% CI: 0.445–0.861). The study identifies PM2.5 as a significant factor influencing influenza transmission in the elderly, with effects varying by climate zone, suggesting the need to incorporate PM2.5 and socio-economic factors into seasonal influenza EWS.
{"title":"The effect of particulate matter 2.5 on seasonal influenza transmission in 1,330 counties, China: A Bayesian spatial analysis based on Köppen Geiger climate zones classifications","authors":"Xiaohan Si , Liping Wang , Kerrie Mengersen , Chuchu Ye , Wenbiao Hu","doi":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114527","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114527","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Previous research has linked seasonal influenza transmission with particulate matters (PM<sub>2.5</sub>). However, the effect of PM<sub>2.5</sub> on seasonal influenza transmission varied by region. This study aims explore how PM<sub>2.5</sub> influenced seasonal influenza transmission in the elderly across 1330 counties in two Köppen Geiger climate zones in China, incorporating the socio-economic factors to enhance climate-driven early warning systems (EWS) for influenza. Data included weekly 2015–2019 influenza cases in those aged >65 from China's national influenza surveillance system for 1330 counties in two Köppen Geiger climate zones: Temperate, Hot Summer with Dry Winter (Cwa) and No Dry Season (Cfa). PM<sub>2.5</sub> data from 2015 to 2019 were sourced from Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Services. Additional data on floating population, population density and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita were collected from pertinent departments. A Bayesian spatial autoregressive model assessed the association of PM<sub>2.5</sub> and influenza transmission after adjustment of socio-economic factors. Our research results showed PM<sub>2.5</sub> (per 1 μg/m³ increase) was linked to increased influenza transmission in the Cwa zone during winter season (Relative Risk (RR) = 1.023, 95% Credible Interval (CI):1.008–1.040) but not in the Cfa winter (RR = 1.003, 95% CI: 0.992–1.015). Floating population significantly enhanced transmission in both zones (highest RR = 1.362, 95% CI:1.181–1.583), while GDP per capita growth was associated with reduced transmission risk (highest RR = 0.619, 95% CI: 0.445–0.861). The study identifies PM<sub>2.5</sub> as a significant factor influencing influenza transmission in the elderly, with effects varying by climate zone, suggesting the need to incorporate PM<sub>2.5</sub> and socio-economic factors into seasonal influenza EWS.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13994,"journal":{"name":"International journal of hygiene and environmental health","volume":"265 ","pages":"Article 114527"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-01-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143076400","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-01-27DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114525
Bingxue Wu , Tao Wang , Yan Zhang , Yuyan Li , Xing Chen , Zhengyuan Xie , Cai Kong , Yuzhi Lan , Hanfeng Ye , Xiangjing Song , Zigao Zhao , Yan Che
Background
Direct evidence linking ambient temperature to human fecundity is sparse. We aimed to evaluate the potential impact of ambient temperature on time to pregnancy (TTP) and identify the optimal temperature range for initiating conception attempts.
Methods
Our analysis included 576 927 couples from the Chinese National Free Preconception Health Examination Project (NFPHEP) in Yunnan Province, with a one-year follow-up post-enrollment. Each female partner's cycle-specific average temperatures (Tmean) at the couple residences were aggregated and summarized by daily concentrations with a resolution of 0.1° × 0.1°. We used discrete-time Cox regression nested with distributed lag non-linear models to estimate the fecundity odds ratio (FOR) for Tmean concerning one-, two-, or three-cycle preceding pregnancy attempts.
Results
Among the 576 927 couples (mean [SD] age: female partner, 27.6 [5.5] years; male partner, 30.1 [5.8] years), 193 710 couples conceived within 12 cycles, among which 52.1% were pregnant within 3 TTPs and 78.9% were pregnant within 6 TTPs. The cumulative pregnancy rate in 12 menstrual cycles was 38.87%. An inverted U-shaped exposure-response relationship between TTP and Tmean was identified for the cycles preceding the pregnancy attempt. The optimal temperature interval (TI) for conception attempts was determined to be 7.9 °C to 14.5 °C, correlating with a 0.3% (FOR: 1.003, 95%CI: 0.987–1.020) to 3.8% (FOR:1.038, 95%CI: 1.031–1.047) increase in fecundity, compared to the median Tmean of 15.9 °C. Temperatures below or above this interval were linked to a significant reduction in fecundity, ranging from 1.2% (FOR: 0.988, 95%CI: 0.977–1.000) to 6.8% (FOR: 0.932, 95%CI: 0.910–0.953) for the lower TI (<7.9 °C), 2.3% (FOR: 0.977, 95%CI: 0.970–0.984) to 6.6% (FOR: 0.934, 95%CI: 0.921–0.948) for the higher TI (14.5 °C–24.6 °C), respectively, compared to the optimal TI. These findings were robust after stratifying by age and BMI of female or male partners.
Conclusion
Exposure to temperatures within the 7.9 °C to 14.5 °C, one to three menstrual cycles preceding pregnancy attempts, was associated with enhanced fecundity and a reduced TTP, suggesting that the optimal ambient temperature could be pivotal for conception success.
{"title":"Association between ambient temperature and couple fecundity: Insights from a large-scale cohort study in Yunnan, China","authors":"Bingxue Wu , Tao Wang , Yan Zhang , Yuyan Li , Xing Chen , Zhengyuan Xie , Cai Kong , Yuzhi Lan , Hanfeng Ye , Xiangjing Song , Zigao Zhao , Yan Che","doi":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114525","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114525","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Direct evidence linking ambient temperature to human fecundity is sparse. We aimed to evaluate the potential impact of ambient temperature on time to pregnancy (TTP) and identify the optimal temperature range for initiating conception attempts.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Our analysis included 576 927 couples from the Chinese National Free Preconception Health Examination Project (NFPHEP) in Yunnan Province, with a one-year follow-up post-enrollment. Each female partner's cycle-specific average temperatures (T<sub>mean</sub>) at the couple residences were aggregated and summarized by daily concentrations with a resolution of 0.1° × 0.1°. We used discrete-time Cox regression nested with distributed lag non-linear models to estimate the fecundity odds ratio (FOR) for T<sub>mean</sub> concerning one-, two-, or three-cycle preceding pregnancy attempts.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Among the 576 927 couples (mean [SD] age: female partner, 27.6 [5.5] years; male partner, 30.1 [5.8] years), 193 710 couples conceived within 12 cycles, among which 52.1% were pregnant within 3 TTPs and 78.9% were pregnant within 6 TTPs. The cumulative pregnancy rate in 12 menstrual cycles was 38.87%. An inverted U-shaped exposure-response relationship between TTP and T<sub>mean</sub> was identified for the cycles preceding the pregnancy attempt. The optimal temperature interval (TI) for conception attempts was determined to be 7.9 °C to 14.5 °C, correlating with a 0.3% (FOR: 1.003, 95%CI: 0.987–1.020) to 3.8% (FOR:1.038, 95%CI: 1.031–1.047) increase in fecundity, compared to the median T<sub>mean</sub> of 15.9 °C. Temperatures below or above this interval were linked to a significant reduction in fecundity, ranging from 1.2% (FOR: 0.988, 95%CI: 0.977–1.000) to 6.8% (FOR: 0.932, 95%CI: 0.910–0.953) for the lower TI (<7.9 °C), 2.3% (FOR: 0.977, 95%CI: 0.970–0.984) to 6.6% (FOR: 0.934, 95%CI: 0.921–0.948) for the higher TI (14.5 °C–24.6 °C), respectively, compared to the optimal TI. These findings were robust after stratifying by age and BMI of female or male partners.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Exposure to temperatures within the 7.9 °C to 14.5 °C, one to three menstrual cycles preceding pregnancy attempts, was associated with enhanced fecundity and a reduced TTP, suggesting that the optimal ambient temperature could be pivotal for conception success.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13994,"journal":{"name":"International journal of hygiene and environmental health","volume":"264 ","pages":"Article 114525"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-01-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143061766","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-01-25DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114523
Verónica Moreno-Martín , Maria López , David Bou , Sónia Fraga , João Paulo Teixeira , Ana López-Lilao , Vicenta Sanfélix , Eliseo Monfort , Mar Viana
Research on nanoparticle (NP) release and potential exposure can be assessed through experimental field campaigns, laboratory simulations, and prediction models. However, risk assessment models are typically designed for manufactured NP (MNP) and have not been adapted for incidental NP (INP) properties. A notable research gap is identifying NP sources and their chemical, physical, and toxicological properties, especially in real-world settings. This work aims to provide insights into the release and physico-chemical properties of INP while contributing to improving models for INP release. INP release was evaluated through a case study in a ceramic tile firing facility, where aerosol (10 nm - 10 μm) properties were determined. The Control Banding (CB) Nanotool model was applied to test outputs based on provided input parameters.
Results
demonstrate the constant generation and release of INP during tile firing, with NP concentrations up to 68711/cm³ and mean diameters of 37 nm, with 95% smaller than 100 nm. Particle morphology was mostly spherical, suggesting nucleation from precursor gases as the main formation mechanism. INP chemical composition was driven by primary ceramic components, while trace elements like Ni and Ti exhibited size-dependent patterns. In vitro cell viability tests indicated low to medium cytotoxicity of PM2 aerosols, decreasing human alveolar epithelial cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner. Applying the risk model with varying input parameters revealed that the risk level (RL) based on severity scores decreased when aerosol size distribution data were used, illustrating the model's sensitivity to input variables.
We conclude on the need for comprehensive experimental datasets to support risk assessment models and achieve effective risk management strategies in real-world scenarios.
{"title":"Incidental nanoparticle characterisation in industrial settings to support risk assessment modelling","authors":"Verónica Moreno-Martín , Maria López , David Bou , Sónia Fraga , João Paulo Teixeira , Ana López-Lilao , Vicenta Sanfélix , Eliseo Monfort , Mar Viana","doi":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114523","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114523","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Research on nanoparticle (NP) release and potential exposure can be assessed through experimental field campaigns, laboratory simulations, and prediction models. However, risk assessment models are typically designed for manufactured NP (MNP) and have not been adapted for incidental NP (INP) properties. A notable research gap is identifying NP sources and their chemical, physical, and toxicological properties, especially in real-world settings. This work aims to provide insights into the release and physico-chemical properties of INP while contributing to improving models for INP release. INP release was evaluated through a case study in a ceramic tile firing facility, where aerosol (10 nm - 10 μm) properties were determined. The Control Banding (CB) Nanotool model was applied to test outputs based on provided input parameters.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>demonstrate the constant generation and release of INP during tile firing, with NP concentrations up to 68711/cm³ and mean diameters of 37 nm, with 95% smaller than 100 nm. Particle morphology was mostly spherical, suggesting nucleation from precursor gases as the main formation mechanism. INP chemical composition was driven by primary ceramic components, while trace elements like Ni and Ti exhibited size-dependent patterns. In vitro cell viability tests indicated low to medium cytotoxicity of PM<sub>2</sub> aerosols, decreasing human alveolar epithelial cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner. Applying the risk model with varying input parameters revealed that the risk level (RL) based on severity scores decreased when aerosol size distribution data were used, illustrating the model's sensitivity to input variables.</div><div>We conclude on the need for comprehensive experimental datasets to support risk assessment models and achieve effective risk management strategies in real-world scenarios.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13994,"journal":{"name":"International journal of hygiene and environmental health","volume":"264 ","pages":"Article 114523"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-01-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143043910","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-01-22DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114524
Lucia Coppola , Enrica Fabbrizi , Giovanni Angelozzi , Chiara Laura Battistelli , Alice Catena , Lorella Ciferri , Annamaria Iannetta , Sabrina Tait , Monia Perugini , Cinzia La Rocca
The extensive use of pesticides in agriculture significantly enhances crop yields and pest control. However, it also raises concerns regarding environmental and human health impacts. Children are particularly vulnerable to health effects of pesticide exposure, especially for neurological development and reproductive health. This study aims to evaluate the association between dietary pesticide exposure and idiopathic premature thelarche in girls living in an intensive agricultural area in central Italy. Using a case-control study, pesticide residues exposure was assessed through dietary intake of local food and by urinary levels. Results showed that the dietary intake of some pesticides from fruit and vegetables was higher in affected girls than healthy controls, although not significantly associated with idiopathic premature thelarche risk. Moreover, low health risk was obtained for cumulative dietary exposure. Despite this, further efforts are needed to reduce pesticide residues in food due to their potential endocrine disrupting properties, considering that diet may be one of several sources of exposure, especially in rural areas.
{"title":"Premature thelarche and pesticide exposure: A case-control study in an intensive agricultural area","authors":"Lucia Coppola , Enrica Fabbrizi , Giovanni Angelozzi , Chiara Laura Battistelli , Alice Catena , Lorella Ciferri , Annamaria Iannetta , Sabrina Tait , Monia Perugini , Cinzia La Rocca","doi":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114524","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114524","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The extensive use of pesticides in agriculture significantly enhances crop yields and pest control. However, it also raises concerns regarding environmental and human health impacts. Children are particularly vulnerable to health effects of pesticide exposure, especially for neurological development and reproductive health. This study aims to evaluate the association between dietary pesticide exposure and idiopathic premature thelarche in girls living in an intensive agricultural area in central Italy. Using a case-control study, pesticide residues exposure was assessed through dietary intake of local food and by urinary levels. Results showed that the dietary intake of some pesticides from fruit and vegetables was higher in affected girls than healthy controls, although not significantly associated with idiopathic premature thelarche risk. Moreover, low health risk was obtained for cumulative dietary exposure. Despite this, further efforts are needed to reduce pesticide residues in food due to their potential endocrine disrupting properties, considering that diet may be one of several sources of exposure, especially in rural areas.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13994,"journal":{"name":"International journal of hygiene and environmental health","volume":"264 ","pages":"Article 114524"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-01-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143030538","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-01-21DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114522
Mette Hyllegaard Madsen , Janne Julie Møller , Niels Erik Ebbehøj , Flemming Nielsen , Marianne Tang Severinsen , Jonas Faartoft Jensen , Søren Rygaard Lenschow , Jakob Hjort Bønløkke
Background: Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) have been used for decades in countless households and industrial products. Many PFAS do not degrade and are thus ubiquitous in the environment and within organisms. Humans are primarily exposed to PFAS through ingestion and inhalation, and such exposure has been associated with several health effects. Some PFAS accumulate in the top layer of seawater and in seafoam up to 100,000 times the concentration in bulk seawater. No studies have investigated whether exposure to seafoam or aerosols by surfing or other water activities is associated with a higher PFAS burden. This study aimed to measure PFAS concentrations in the blood of 34 Danish surfers and investigate the effect of annual surfing hours on these concentrations.
Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study of surfers from the West Coast of Denmark was conducted to investigate a possible association between annual surfing hours and serum PFAS concentrations including PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFDA and PFHxS.
Findings: All 34 surfers had measurable PFAS concentrations in their blood. However, annual surfing hours were not associated with increased PFAS concentrations. Unadjusted subgroup analyses showed statistically significant associations with male sex and consumption of meat from free-ranging animals with higher PFAS concentrations in blood, although these associations might be driven by other factors.
Interpretation: This study descriptively explored the distribution of PFAS concentrations in different subgroups based on potential risk factors of higher PFAS exposure. Even though no association between surfing and PFAS concentrations in blood was found, several other factors are suspected to be associated with increased concentrations. To prevent exposures that might lead to adverse health effects, further studies are needed.
{"title":"PFAS concentrations in the blood of Danish surfers","authors":"Mette Hyllegaard Madsen , Janne Julie Møller , Niels Erik Ebbehøj , Flemming Nielsen , Marianne Tang Severinsen , Jonas Faartoft Jensen , Søren Rygaard Lenschow , Jakob Hjort Bønløkke","doi":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114522","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114522","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Background: Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) have been used for decades in countless households and industrial products. Many PFAS do not degrade and are thus ubiquitous in the environment and within organisms. Humans are primarily exposed to PFAS through ingestion and inhalation, and such exposure has been associated with several health effects. Some PFAS accumulate in the top layer of seawater and in seafoam up to 100,000 times the concentration in bulk seawater. No studies have investigated whether exposure to seafoam or aerosols by surfing or other water activities is associated with a higher PFAS burden. This study aimed to measure PFAS concentrations in the blood of 34 Danish surfers and investigate the effect of annual surfing hours on these concentrations.</div><div>Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study of surfers from the West Coast of Denmark was conducted to investigate a possible association between annual surfing hours and serum PFAS concentrations including PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFDA and PFHxS.</div><div>Findings: All 34 surfers had measurable PFAS concentrations in their blood. However, annual surfing hours were not associated with increased PFAS concentrations. Unadjusted subgroup analyses showed statistically significant associations with male sex and consumption of meat from free-ranging animals with higher PFAS concentrations in blood, although these associations might be driven by other factors.</div><div>Interpretation: This study descriptively explored the distribution of PFAS concentrations in different subgroups based on potential risk factors of higher PFAS exposure. Even though no association between surfing and PFAS concentrations in blood was found, several other factors are suspected to be associated with increased concentrations. To prevent exposures that might lead to adverse health effects, further studies are needed.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13994,"journal":{"name":"International journal of hygiene and environmental health","volume":"264 ","pages":"Article 114522"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-01-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143018910","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-01-13DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114521
A. Dalecká , A. Kšiňan , D. Szabó , N. Čapková , H. Pikhart , M. Bobák
Background
Evidence on the impact of complex neighborhood environment, including air pollution, greenness, and neighborhood socioeconomic deprivation (nSED) on cognitive health in older adults remains scarce. Both cognition and neighborhood environment are associated with physical activity, but little is known about the potential mediating role of physical activity in this association.
Methods
Cross-sectional data of the Czech arm of the HAPIEE cohort study examined 4,178 participants (55.6% women) aged 45–69 years. Global cognitive score was constructed from memory, verbal fluency, and concentration domains. The exposures, assigned to participant's addresses, include 4-year (2000–2003) average concentrations of PM2.5, greenness index calculated from tree crown canopy cover estimation (2000), and census-based nSED characteristics. Physical activity and other covariates were assessed by a questionnaire. Structural equation modelling was used to estimate standardized β coefficients for the relationships between neighborhood environment, physical activity and cognitive performance.
Results
After controlling for a range of covariates, global cognitive function was inversely associated with PM2.5 (β = −0.087; 95%CI: 0.122 to −0.052) and nSED (β = −0.147; 95%CI: 0.182 to −0.115), and positively associated with greenness (β = 0.036; 95%CI: 0.001 to 0.069). We identified a weak but statistically significant mediating role of physical activity in the associations of PM2.5 exposures and nSED on global cognitive score. Total mediation proportions ranged from 3.9% to 6.5% for nSED and PM2.5, respectively.
Conclusions
The neighborhood environment was associated with cognitive health in older individuals; the associations were partially mediated by physical activity.
{"title":"Neighborhood environment and cognitive functioning in middle-aged and older population: A mediating role of physical activity","authors":"A. Dalecká , A. Kšiňan , D. Szabó , N. Čapková , H. Pikhart , M. Bobák","doi":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114521","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114521","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Evidence on the impact of complex neighborhood environment, including air pollution, greenness, and neighborhood socioeconomic deprivation (nSED) on cognitive health in older adults remains scarce. Both cognition and neighborhood environment are associated with physical activity, but little is known about the potential mediating role of physical activity in this association.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Cross-sectional data of the Czech arm of the HAPIEE cohort study examined 4,178 participants (55.6% women) aged 45–69 years. Global cognitive score was constructed from memory, verbal fluency, and concentration domains. The exposures, assigned to participant's addresses, include 4-year (2000–2003) average concentrations of PM<sub>2.5</sub>, greenness index calculated from tree crown canopy cover estimation (2000), and census-based nSED characteristics. Physical activity and other covariates were assessed by a questionnaire. Structural equation modelling was used to estimate standardized β coefficients for the relationships between neighborhood environment, physical activity and cognitive performance.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>After controlling for a range of covariates, global cognitive function was inversely associated with PM<sub>2.5</sub> (β = −0.087; 95%CI: 0.122 to −0.052) and nSED (β = −0.147; 95%CI: 0.182 to −0.115), and positively associated with greenness (β = 0.036; 95%CI: 0.001 to 0.069). We identified a weak but statistically significant mediating role of physical activity in the associations of PM<sub>2.5</sub> exposures and nSED on global cognitive score. Total mediation proportions ranged from 3.9% to 6.5% for nSED and PM<sub>2.5</sub>, respectively.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The neighborhood environment was associated with cognitive health in older individuals; the associations were partially mediated by physical activity.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13994,"journal":{"name":"International journal of hygiene and environmental health","volume":"264 ","pages":"Article 114521"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-01-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142985539","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-01-12DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114520
Yu Liu , Kunying Li , Yuchuan Deng , Mengfan Li , Xiaonan Gu , Yujing Chen , Zhaoyan Liu , Lizi Lin , Li Cai
Background
Previous studies indicated that early life exposure to particulate matter of 2.5 μm or less (PM2.5) could impair children's growth. However, the adverse effects of maternal ozone (O3) and its interplay with PM2.5 on offspring's growth are unclear.
Object
We aimed to investigate the independent and combined association of early-life exposure to PM2.5 and O3 with offspring growth in early childhood.
Methods
This study included 632 Chinese mother-child pairs. Residential PM2.5 and O3 exposure concentrations in pregnancy and postanal 2 years were estimated by an established spatiotemporal model. During each exposure period, we also calculated the exceedance rate, the accumulative proportion of over-standard days (Exceedance standard: PM2.5>35 μg/m3, O3 > 100 μg/m3). We repeatedly measured the offspring's weight and length from birth to 2 years old and calculated the age-standardized Z-score of weight for height (WFL), body mass index (BMI), and overweight risk (BMI Z-score >85th percentile).
Results
The adjusted generalized estimating equations showed that the concentration (an IQR increase) and exceedance rate (per 10% increase) of PM2.5 in prenatal (especially the second trimesters) and postnatal periods were associated with increased WFL, BMI Z-score, and overweight risk (βs/ORs ranging from 0.10 to 0.41/1.23 to 1.62, P < 0.05) in children within age 2 years. Although early-life exposure to O3 was not associated with growth outcomes, it showed multiplicative and additive interactions with PM2.5 on offspring growth, particularly in the 2nd trimester and early life 1000 days. The associations with WFL and BMI Z-score were greatest in the higher exceedance rates group of PM2.5 and O3 (βs ranging from 0.21 to 0.37, Pforinteraction<0.01).
Conclusion
This study demonstrated that early-life PM2.5 exposure, especially exceedance rate, was associated with increased offspring growth within 2 years of age. Furthermore, we discovered that O3 may strengthen the adverse effect of PM2.5 exposure on children's growth.
{"title":"Association of early life co-exposure to ambient PM2.5 and O3 with the offspring's growth within two years of age: A birth cohort study","authors":"Yu Liu , Kunying Li , Yuchuan Deng , Mengfan Li , Xiaonan Gu , Yujing Chen , Zhaoyan Liu , Lizi Lin , Li Cai","doi":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114520","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114520","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Previous studies indicated that early life exposure to particulate matter of 2.5 μm or less (PM<sub>2.5</sub>) could impair children's growth. However, the adverse effects of maternal ozone (O<sub>3</sub>) and its interplay with PM<sub>2.5</sub> on offspring's growth are unclear.</div></div><div><h3>Object</h3><div>We aimed to investigate the independent and combined association of early-life exposure to PM<sub>2.5</sub> and O<sub>3</sub> with offspring growth in early childhood.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This study included 632 Chinese mother-child pairs. Residential PM<sub>2.5</sub> and O<sub>3</sub> exposure concentrations in pregnancy and postanal 2 years were estimated by an established spatiotemporal model. During each exposure period, we also calculated the exceedance rate, the accumulative proportion of over-standard days (Exceedance standard: PM<sub>2.5</sub>>35 μg/m<sup>3</sup>, O<sub>3</sub> > 100 μg/m<sup>3</sup>). We repeatedly measured the offspring's weight and length from birth to 2 years old and calculated the age-standardized Z-score of weight for height (WFL), body mass index (BMI), and overweight risk (BMI Z-score >85th percentile).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The adjusted generalized estimating equations showed that the concentration (an IQR increase) and exceedance rate (per 10% increase) of PM<sub>2.5</sub> in prenatal (especially the second trimesters) and postnatal periods were associated with increased WFL, BMI Z-score, and overweight risk (βs/ORs ranging from 0.10 to 0.41/1.23 to 1.62, <em>P</em> < 0.05) in children within age 2 years. Although early-life exposure to O<sub>3</sub> was not associated with growth outcomes, it showed multiplicative and additive interactions with PM<sub>2.5</sub> on offspring growth, particularly in the 2nd trimester and early life 1000 days. The associations with WFL and BMI Z-score were greatest in the higher exceedance rates group of PM<sub>2.5</sub> and O<sub>3</sub> (βs ranging from 0.21 to 0.37, <em>P</em> <sub><em>for</em></sub> <sub><em>interaction</em></sub><0.01).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This study demonstrated that early-life PM<sub>2.5</sub> exposure, especially exceedance rate, was associated with increased offspring growth within 2 years of age. Furthermore, we discovered that O<sub>3</sub> may strengthen the adverse effect of PM<sub>2.5</sub> exposure on children's growth.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13994,"journal":{"name":"International journal of hygiene and environmental health","volume":"264 ","pages":"Article 114520"},"PeriodicalIF":4.5,"publicationDate":"2025-01-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142981066","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}