Pub Date : 2025-04-14DOI: 10.1016/j.heha.2025.100124
Zhuorong Du, Jiafu Li
Cytotoxicity serves as a crucial standard for assessing the potential health risks posed by water disinfection by-products (DBPs). The precise use of toxicological metrics, such as EC50, IC50, and LC50, is essential for reliable safety evaluations and effective prioritization of DBPs for regulatory control. However, recent studies have increasingly applied these metrics interchangeably, undermining the accuracy of research findings and hindering meaningful cross-study comparisons, which may even impact public health decision-making and the development of DBP regulatory policies. This paper seeks to clarify the distinctions between these metrics, emphasize their correct application, and propose strategies to promote consistency and accuracy in future research on DBP cytoxicity, ultimately contributing to improved public health protection.
{"title":"Clarifying the misuse of EC50, IC50, and LC50 in cytotoxicity study of water disinfection byproducts: A critical analysis and perspective","authors":"Zhuorong Du, Jiafu Li","doi":"10.1016/j.heha.2025.100124","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.heha.2025.100124","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Cytotoxicity serves as a crucial standard for assessing the potential health risks posed by water disinfection by-products (DBPs). The precise use of toxicological metrics, such as EC<sub>50</sub>, IC<sub>50</sub>, and LC<sub>50</sub>, is essential for reliable safety evaluations and effective prioritization of DBPs for regulatory control. However, recent studies have increasingly applied these metrics interchangeably, undermining the accuracy of research findings and hindering meaningful cross-study comparisons, which may even impact public health decision-making and the development of DBP regulatory policies. This paper seeks to clarify the distinctions between these metrics, emphasize their correct application, and propose strategies to promote consistency and accuracy in future research on DBP cytoxicity, ultimately contributing to improved public health protection.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73269,"journal":{"name":"Hygiene and environmental health advances","volume":"15 ","pages":"Article 100124"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-04-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143844641","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-03-22DOI: 10.1016/j.heha.2025.100122
Dharshani Pearson
When addressing climate change-associated health effects in children, much of the existing literature has focused on heat exposure. The role dust, drought, wetland desiccation (exposed lakebeds), and wind may have on health has been discussed less frequently. Many of these exposures affect children in rural populations who traditionally have fewer resources and healthcare options available to them. Some of the same children also belong to marginalized groups, ethnic minorities, or have pre-existing lung health issues, and often experience health disparities. In this overview, we discuss how these exposures along with social conditions and genetic susceptibility can affect children's health in the American West, considering: dusty conditions and coccidioidomycosis (Valley fever), exposed lakebeds and lung health, environmental factors and Kawasaki disease (KD), and dust events and motor vehicle accidents. With this summary, which utilizes a multifactorial approach, we stress further research could confirm current findings in other regions of the American West in addition to California, identify more vulnerable subgroups, and inform better policy. Considering exposures other than heat in a broader, more holistic perspective can more fully and equitably address climate change and children's health, setting the stage for a better health trajectory throughout the life course, especially in rural and tribal populations.
{"title":"Drought, desiccation, dust, and aridity in the American West: A California overview of climate change exposures, regional factors, and social conditions on maternal and child health","authors":"Dharshani Pearson","doi":"10.1016/j.heha.2025.100122","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.heha.2025.100122","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>When addressing climate change-associated health effects in children, much of the existing literature has focused on heat exposure. The role dust, drought, wetland desiccation (exposed lakebeds), and wind may have on health has been discussed less frequently. Many of these exposures affect children in rural populations who traditionally have fewer resources and healthcare options available to them. Some of the same children also belong to marginalized groups, ethnic minorities, or have pre-existing lung health issues, and often experience health disparities. In this overview, we discuss how these exposures along with social conditions and genetic susceptibility can affect children's health in the American West, considering: dusty conditions and coccidioidomycosis (Valley fever), exposed lakebeds and lung health, environmental factors and Kawasaki disease (KD), and dust events and motor vehicle accidents. With this summary, which utilizes a multifactorial approach, we stress further research could confirm current findings in other regions of the American West in addition to California, identify more vulnerable subgroups, and inform better policy. Considering exposures other than heat in a broader, more holistic perspective can more fully and equitably address climate change and children's health, setting the stage for a better health trajectory throughout the life course, especially in rural and tribal populations.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73269,"journal":{"name":"Hygiene and environmental health advances","volume":"15 ","pages":"Article 100122"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143791958","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-03-22DOI: 10.1016/j.heha.2025.100121
Danilo Moreira Vilas Boas , Wilson José Fernandes Lemos Junior , Joselene Nascimento , Clícia Leite , Juliana Matos , Francine Paz , Anderson S. Sant'Ana , Alaíse Gil Guimarães
Waterborne diseases, such as cholera and typhoid fever, pose significant health risks, particularly in areas with inadequate sanitation and contaminated water sources. The Northeast region of Brazil, characterized by limited water resources and high population density, faces challenges in maintaining water quality and distribution. This study aims to evaluate the microbiological quality of drinking water and its relation to the occurrence of waterborne diseases in outdoor environments over a four-year period. A total of 8497 water samples were analyzed, comprising 7912 outdoor and indoor samples and 585 longitudinal indoor samples from a resort-type hotel complex. The study focused on outdoor water sources such as swimming pools, rivers, lakes, and seas. An experimental design was further implemented to assess the microbiological quality of indoor water sources through a longitudinal case study. Among the 7912 outdoor and indoor samples, 1603 showed total coliforms, 501 exhibited growth of thermotolerant coliforms, and 106 tested positive for Escherichia coli (EC). In contrast, indoor samples demonstrated better microbiological quality, with only 18 samples containing total coliforms and none testing positive for EC. Ensuring the microbiological quality of drinking water is vital for public health and the prevention of waterborne diseases. The presence of contaminants in outdoor sources highlights the need for rigorous control mechanisms and monitoring, especially in high-risk regions. Indoor water sources, when properly maintained, can significantly reduce contamination risks, emphasizing the importance of stringent water treatment and hygiene practices.
{"title":"Incidence of Escherichia coli in drinking water: A comparative study of indoor and outdoor sources over four years across Bahia, Brazil","authors":"Danilo Moreira Vilas Boas , Wilson José Fernandes Lemos Junior , Joselene Nascimento , Clícia Leite , Juliana Matos , Francine Paz , Anderson S. Sant'Ana , Alaíse Gil Guimarães","doi":"10.1016/j.heha.2025.100121","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.heha.2025.100121","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Waterborne diseases, such as cholera and typhoid fever, pose significant health risks, particularly in areas with inadequate sanitation and contaminated water sources. The Northeast region of Brazil, characterized by limited water resources and high population density, faces challenges in maintaining water quality and distribution. This study aims to evaluate the microbiological quality of drinking water and its relation to the occurrence of waterborne diseases in outdoor environments over a four-year period. A total of 8497 water samples were analyzed, comprising 7912 outdoor and indoor samples and 585 longitudinal indoor samples from a resort-type hotel complex. The study focused on outdoor water sources such as swimming pools, rivers, lakes, and seas. An experimental design was further implemented to assess the microbiological quality of indoor water sources through a longitudinal case study. Among the 7912 outdoor and indoor samples, 1603 showed total coliforms, 501 exhibited growth of thermotolerant coliforms, and 106 tested positive for <em>Escherichia coli</em> (EC). In contrast, indoor samples demonstrated better microbiological quality, with only 18 samples containing total coliforms and none testing positive for EC. Ensuring the microbiological quality of drinking water is vital for public health and the prevention of waterborne diseases. The presence of contaminants in outdoor sources highlights the need for rigorous control mechanisms and monitoring, especially in high-risk regions. Indoor water sources, when properly maintained, can significantly reduce contamination risks, emphasizing the importance of stringent water treatment and hygiene practices.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73269,"journal":{"name":"Hygiene and environmental health advances","volume":"15 ","pages":"Article 100121"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143807641","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-03-01DOI: 10.1016/j.heha.2025.100120
Yanjun Xie , Ziwei Guo , Jiaxin Liu , Xiang Xiao , Rongqi Xiang , Haobiao Liu , Xue Lin , Jing Han
Dibenzo[a,h]anthracene (DahA) and Benzo[a]anthracene (BaA), as the main components in gasoline, diesel, and coal combustion products, dominate air pollution in northern China and pose a serious threat to human health. In this study, different concentrations of DahA and BaA were used to intervene in human bronchial epithelial cells. Cell viability was determined by using the thiazolyl blue assay; Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were measured using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry; The oxidative damage effect was evaluated by measuring the production of malondialdehyde (MDA) and the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in cells; Finally, real-time fluorescence quantitative reverse transcription polymerase Chain reaction and protein immunoblotting were used to detect the changes in the expression of copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD1) and manganese superoxide dismutase (SOD2) at the gene and protein levels. The results showed that the cell survival rate decreased with increasing concentration after 24 h of DahA and BaA intervention. Compared with the control group, the average fluorescence intensity of ROS increased at 100, 1000, and 10,000 pg/ml, MDA levels increased, and SOD levels decreased. At the gene and protein levels, the mRNA and protein expression of SOD1 and SOD2 increased at 1000 pg/ml and 10,000 pg/ml, respectively. In summary, DahA and BaA have toxic effects on human bronchial epithelial cells after 24 h of intervention and can cause changes in oxidative stress indicators, indicating the occurrence of oxidative stress damage. Oxidative stress damage to human bronchial epithelial cells may be the main mechanism of PAHs on respiratory system damage.
{"title":"Dibenzo[a,h]anthracene and Benzo[a]anthracene increase oxidative stress in human bronchial epithelial cells","authors":"Yanjun Xie , Ziwei Guo , Jiaxin Liu , Xiang Xiao , Rongqi Xiang , Haobiao Liu , Xue Lin , Jing Han","doi":"10.1016/j.heha.2025.100120","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.heha.2025.100120","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Dibenzo[a,h]anthracene (DahA) and Benzo[a]anthracene (BaA), as the main components in gasoline, diesel, and coal combustion products, dominate air pollution in northern China and pose a serious threat to human health. In this study, different concentrations of DahA and BaA were used to intervene in human bronchial epithelial cells. Cell viability was determined by using the thiazolyl blue assay; Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were measured using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry; The oxidative damage effect was evaluated by measuring the production of malondialdehyde (MDA) and the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in cells; Finally, real-time fluorescence quantitative reverse transcription polymerase Chain reaction and protein immunoblotting were used to detect the changes in the expression of copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD1) and manganese superoxide dismutase (SOD2) at the gene and protein levels. The results showed that the cell survival rate decreased with increasing concentration after 24 h of DahA and BaA intervention. Compared with the control group, the average fluorescence intensity of ROS increased at 100, 1000, and 10,000 pg/ml, MDA levels increased, and SOD levels decreased. At the gene and protein levels, the mRNA and protein expression of SOD1 and SOD2 increased at 1000 pg/ml and 10,000 pg/ml, respectively. In summary, DahA and BaA have toxic effects on human bronchial epithelial cells after 24 h of intervention and can cause changes in oxidative stress indicators, indicating the occurrence of oxidative stress damage. Oxidative stress damage to human bronchial epithelial cells may be the main mechanism of PAHs on respiratory system damage.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73269,"journal":{"name":"Hygiene and environmental health advances","volume":"13 ","pages":"Article 100120"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143508596","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
This study aims to holistically comprehend the intricate dynamics between air pollution, socio-demographics, and COVID-19 outcomes in India. The primary objective centers on deploying explainable AI (XAI) methodologies to elucidate the intricate pathways and latent mechanisms governing these associations.
A multi-faceted approach was employed integrating ecological study, hybrid-ML, and XAI techniques to characterize the underlying dependencies and interactions driving the pandemic's spatiotemporal evolution and system dynamics. The ecological study analyzed the association between air pollution levels and COVID-19 case fatality rates (CFRs) across distinct pandemic phases. We utilized a Negative Binomial model for interpretability and implemented a stacked ensemble framework to enhance predictive performance. This stacked model was further leveraged to provide deeper insights into the underlying patterns through XAI techniques.
The ecological study identified distinct patterns in CFR across different pandemic phases of the pandemic, with higher pollution levels monotonically associated with increased CFRs. Furthermore, the stacked ensemble model consistently outperformed its base models, demonstrating the benefits of combining multiple models. Additionally, the XAI analysis identified NO2 as a key driver of COVID-19 cases and mortalities, while PM10 was found to be particularly influential on mortalities. The study concluded distinct COVID-19 transmission patterns across regions and pandemic phases, highlighting the influence of non-pharmaceutical interventions, viral strains, and socio-demographics in driving the pandemic.
The findings highlight the need for strong pollution controls to mitigate air pollution's impact on health. The developed hybrid model can aid in predicting COVID-19 outcomes in future respiratory outbreaks, supporting public health planning and targeted interventions.
{"title":"Retrospectively understanding the multifaceted interplay of COVID-19 outbreak, air pollution, and sociodemographic factors through explainable AI","authors":"Mohmmed Talib , Kripabandhu Ghosh , Gopala Krishna Darbha","doi":"10.1016/j.heha.2025.100119","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.heha.2025.100119","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study aims to holistically comprehend the intricate dynamics between air pollution, socio-demographics, and COVID-19 outcomes in India. The primary objective centers on deploying explainable AI (XAI) methodologies to elucidate the intricate pathways and latent mechanisms governing these associations.</div><div>A multi-faceted approach was employed integrating ecological study, hybrid-ML, and XAI techniques to characterize the underlying dependencies and interactions driving the pandemic's spatiotemporal evolution and system dynamics. The ecological study analyzed the association between air pollution levels and COVID-19 case fatality rates (CFRs) across distinct pandemic phases. We utilized a Negative Binomial model for interpretability and implemented a stacked ensemble framework to enhance predictive performance. This stacked model was further leveraged to provide deeper insights into the underlying patterns through XAI techniques.</div><div>The ecological study identified distinct patterns in CFR across different pandemic phases of the pandemic, with higher pollution levels monotonically associated with increased CFRs. Furthermore, the stacked ensemble model consistently outperformed its base models, demonstrating the benefits of combining multiple models. Additionally, the XAI analysis identified NO<sub>2</sub> as a key driver of COVID-19 cases and mortalities, while PM<sub>10</sub> was found to be particularly influential on mortalities. The study concluded distinct COVID-19 transmission patterns across regions and pandemic phases, highlighting the influence of non-pharmaceutical interventions, viral strains, and socio-demographics in driving the pandemic.</div><div>The findings highlight the need for strong pollution controls to mitigate air pollution's impact on health. The developed hybrid model can aid in predicting COVID-19 outcomes in future respiratory outbreaks, supporting public health planning and targeted interventions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73269,"journal":{"name":"Hygiene and environmental health advances","volume":"13 ","pages":"Article 100119"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143264331","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","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.heha.2025.100118
Chimdi Muoghalu , Sarah Lebu , Herbert Kaboggoza , Felix Bongomin , Stephen Ochaya , Musa Manga
Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are widespread in India, particularly among preschool- and school-aged children (PSAC and SAC). Following PRISMA guidelines, our study systematically garnered and synthesized existing literature to provide a comprehensive review and meta-analysis of STH infections among PSAC and SAC in India. We searched four databases - PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Embase - and conducted a random-effects meta-analysis to estimate STH prevalence and assess risk factors. Additionally, we assessed the odds ratios for STH infections across various risk factors. From the 36 eligible articles, the pooled prevalence of STH infections was 27 % (95 % CI 19–36 %), with roundworm being the most common - 34 % (95 % CI 26 - 42 %). Our study results indicate that boys have higher odds of STH infections compared to girls (OR 1.29, 95 % CI 1.01–1.64), and maintaining good personal hygiene, such as regular handwashing, correlates with lower odds of STH infections (OR 0.36, 95 % CI 0.11–1.14). Current mitigation strategies in India include targeted deworming, mass drug administration (MDA), and water sanitation and hygiene (WASH) interventions. Targeted deworming faces challenges as dewormed school children may get reinfected by adults and untreated children. MDA requires substantial resource mobilization while deeply entrenched cultural norms constrain WASH interventions. These limitations highlight the need to explore innovative strategies for sustainable solutions to the issue of STH infections in India. To reduce prevalence, we recommend preventive chemotherapy alongside context-specific improvements in WASH conditions, complemented by strategic information, communication efforts, and effective policies.
{"title":"Soil-transmitted helminth infections among preschool- and school-aged children in India: A systematic review and meta-analysis of prevalence, risk factors and intervention strategies","authors":"Chimdi Muoghalu , Sarah Lebu , Herbert Kaboggoza , Felix Bongomin , Stephen Ochaya , Musa Manga","doi":"10.1016/j.heha.2025.100118","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.heha.2025.100118","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are widespread in India, particularly among preschool- and school-aged children (PSAC and SAC). Following PRISMA guidelines, our study systematically garnered and synthesized existing literature to provide a comprehensive review and meta-analysis of STH infections among PSAC and SAC in India. We searched four databases - PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Embase - and conducted a random-effects meta-analysis to estimate STH prevalence and assess risk factors. Additionally, we assessed the odds ratios for STH infections across various risk factors. From the 36 eligible articles, the pooled prevalence of STH infections was 27 % (95 % CI 19–36 %), with roundworm being the most common - 34 % (95 % CI 26 - 42 %). Our study results indicate that boys have higher odds of STH infections compared to girls (OR 1.29, 95 % CI 1.01–1.64), and maintaining good personal hygiene, such as regular handwashing, correlates with lower odds of STH infections (OR 0.36, 95 % CI 0.11–1.14). Current mitigation strategies in India include targeted deworming, mass drug administration (MDA), and water sanitation and hygiene (WASH) interventions. Targeted deworming faces challenges as dewormed school children may get reinfected by adults and untreated children. MDA requires substantial resource mobilization while deeply entrenched cultural norms constrain WASH interventions. These limitations highlight the need to explore innovative strategies for sustainable solutions to the issue of STH infections in India. To reduce prevalence, we recommend preventive chemotherapy alongside context-specific improvements in WASH conditions, complemented by strategic information, communication efforts, and effective policies.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73269,"journal":{"name":"Hygiene and environmental health advances","volume":"13 ","pages":"Article 100118"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143165127","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-11-29DOI: 10.1016/j.heha.2024.100117
Rebecca Bascom , Minyoung Kim , Simon G. Royce , Zachary Bitzer , Shirin Borhan , Pauline H. Go , Rickhesvar P.M. Mahraj , Negar Rassaei , Mary Vogt , James S. Ultman , Jane E. Bourke , Ali Borhan
Background
Our simulations previously predicted focal areas of gaseous pollutant dose delivered to the airway mucosa of a patient with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). We hypothesize a relation between these dose predictions and clinically meaningful endpoints in IPF which link toxicant-driven epithelial injury and disrepair to IPF etiology and pathogenesis.
Objective
To determine associations between patient-specific modeling of tracheal geometry, computer simulations of toxicant dose, and lung histopathology in patients with IPF.
Methods
The first three conducting airway generations of ten patients diagnosed with IPF were reconstructed from their high-resolution CT chest scans. We quantified geometric abnormalities of the reconstructed tracheas based on their curvature and eccentricity (cross-sectional flattening), and performed three-dimensional computer simulations to predict the average and upper values (i.e. hotspots) of reactive toxicant dose to the underlying mucosa. Distal biopsy tissue samples were characterized by epithelial cell phenotype, extent of fibrosis, and histopathologic severity scores. Non-parametric correlation analysis examined associations between these descriptors.
Results
Computed values for curvature and eccentricity of IPF-deformed trachea varied widely among patients and correlated with more subjective rankings of tracheal deformation, and with predicted toxicant dose. Overall histopathologic severity was positively correlated with tracheal deformation and upper decile toxicant uptake. Tracheal curvature was significantly correlated with fibroblastic foci.
Conclusions
These results demonstrate an association of tracheal curvature with predicted toxicant dose and with histopathologic indicators in distal tissue. This suggests that these measures may be predictors of risk for acute IPF exacerbations, subsequent clinical deterioration, and disease progression.
{"title":"Patient-specific tracheal deformation, predicted toxicant uptake and histopathology in lung fibrosis","authors":"Rebecca Bascom , Minyoung Kim , Simon G. Royce , Zachary Bitzer , Shirin Borhan , Pauline H. Go , Rickhesvar P.M. Mahraj , Negar Rassaei , Mary Vogt , James S. Ultman , Jane E. Bourke , Ali Borhan","doi":"10.1016/j.heha.2024.100117","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.heha.2024.100117","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Our simulations previously predicted focal areas of gaseous pollutant dose delivered to the airway mucosa of a patient with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). We hypothesize a relation between these dose predictions and clinically meaningful endpoints in IPF which link toxicant-driven epithelial injury and disrepair to IPF etiology and pathogenesis.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To determine associations between patient-specific modeling of tracheal geometry, computer simulations of toxicant dose, and lung histopathology in patients with IPF.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The first three conducting airway generations of ten patients diagnosed with IPF were reconstructed from their high-resolution CT chest scans. We quantified geometric abnormalities of the reconstructed tracheas based on their curvature and eccentricity (cross-sectional flattening), and performed three-dimensional computer simulations to predict the average and upper values (<em>i.e.</em> hotspots) of reactive toxicant dose to the underlying mucosa. Distal biopsy tissue samples were characterized by epithelial cell phenotype, extent of fibrosis, and histopathologic severity scores. Non-parametric correlation analysis examined associations between these descriptors.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Computed values for curvature and eccentricity of IPF-deformed trachea varied widely among patients and correlated with more subjective rankings of tracheal deformation, and with predicted toxicant dose. Overall histopathologic severity was positively correlated with tracheal deformation and upper decile toxicant uptake. Tracheal curvature was significantly correlated with fibroblastic foci.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>These results demonstrate an association of tracheal curvature with predicted toxicant dose and with histopathologic indicators in distal tissue. This suggests that these measures may be predictors of risk for acute IPF exacerbations, subsequent clinical deterioration, and disease progression.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73269,"journal":{"name":"Hygiene and environmental health advances","volume":"13 ","pages":"Article 100117"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143165128","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-11-13DOI: 10.1016/j.heha.2024.100116
Yudan Zheng , Lei Zhao , Yuming Zheng , Wenya Bai , Xuefeng Lai , Liangle Yang , Xiaomin Zhang , Miao Liu
Evidence from longitudinal studies examining the associations between urinary phthalate metabolites (mPAEs) and early kidney damage in children has been limited, and the underlying mechanisms still remain unclear. We carried out a longitudinal panel study involving up to 3 repeated visits, and each visit across 4 consecutive days, with 142 children aged 4-12 years from Guangzhou. mPAEs were determined in morning urine of each day and early kidney damage indicators were detected on the 4th day. We employed linear mixed-effect models (LMEs), and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) models to evaluate associations of mPAEs as individual and mixture with early kidney damage, and the interaction of thyroid hormones with mPAEs in such associations. We found that each 1-fold increment of mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP) at health examination day (Lag0) was significantly associated with 4.734% (95% confidence interval: 1.313%, 8.155%) reduction of Cystatin-C (CysC)-based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFRCysC) (FDR< 0.05) and such relationships were in dose-response manner. Meanwhile, BKMR models showed the relations of mPAEs mixture with increased CysC and Beta-2-microglobulin (β2MG), and reduced eGFRCysC were dominated by MBP. Moreover, thyroid hormones were linked to early kidney damage, and free thyroxin (FT4) modified the associations of MBP and β2MG, which was more obvious in children with low level of FT4. Interactions of age group and gender with MBP were significant, the effect of MBP on early kidney damage was stronger in primary school children and boys. In summary, our findings indicated that urinary mPAEs as individual and mixture were associated with early kidney damage indicators, which contributed to MBP were modified by FT4.
{"title":"A longitudinal panel study exploring associations of urinary phthalate metabolites mixture with renal function in Chinese children","authors":"Yudan Zheng , Lei Zhao , Yuming Zheng , Wenya Bai , Xuefeng Lai , Liangle Yang , Xiaomin Zhang , Miao Liu","doi":"10.1016/j.heha.2024.100116","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.heha.2024.100116","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Evidence from longitudinal studies examining the associations between urinary phthalate metabolites (mPAEs) and early kidney damage in children has been limited, and the underlying mechanisms still remain unclear. We carried out a longitudinal panel study involving up to 3 repeated visits, and each visit across 4 consecutive days, with 142 children aged 4-12 years from Guangzhou. mPAEs were determined in morning urine of each day and early kidney damage indicators were detected on the 4<sup>th</sup> day. We employed linear mixed-effect models (LMEs), and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) models to evaluate associations of mPAEs as individual and mixture with early kidney damage, and the interaction of thyroid hormones with mPAEs in such associations. We found that each 1-fold increment of mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP) at health examination day (Lag0) was significantly associated with 4.734% (95% confidence interval: 1.313%, 8.155%) reduction of Cystatin-C (CysC)-based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR<sub>CysC</sub>) (FDR< 0.05) and such relationships were in dose-response manner. Meanwhile, BKMR models showed the relations of mPAEs mixture with increased CysC and Beta-2-microglobulin (β2MG), and reduced eGFR<sub>CysC</sub> were dominated by MBP. Moreover, thyroid hormones were linked to early kidney damage, and free thyroxin (FT4) modified the associations of MBP and β2MG, which was more obvious in children with low level of FT4. Interactions of age group and gender with MBP were significant, the effect of MBP on early kidney damage was stronger in primary school children and boys. In summary, our findings indicated that urinary mPAEs as individual and mixture were associated with early kidney damage indicators, which contributed to MBP were modified by FT4.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73269,"journal":{"name":"Hygiene and environmental health advances","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100116"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142698392","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-10-18DOI: 10.1016/j.heha.2024.100114
David B. Olawade , Ojima Z. Wada , Abimbola O. Ige , Bamise I. Egbewole , Adedayo Olojo , Bankole I. Oladapo
The application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in environmental monitoring offers accurate disaster forecasts, pollution source detection, and comprehensive air and water quality monitoring. This article provides an overview of the value of environmental monitoring, the challenges of conventional methods, and potential AI-based solutions. Several significant AI applications in environmental monitoring are highlighted, showcasing their contributions to effective environmental management. AI technologies enhance environmental monitoring by enabling better understanding, prediction, and mitigation of environmental risks. However, realizing the full potential of AI faces hurdles such as a shortage of specialized AI experts in the environmental sector and challenges related to data access, control, and privacy. These issues are more pronounced in regions with developing technological infrastructure. The paper advocates for proactive data governance measures by governments to protect sensitive information. Despite these challenges, the future of AI in environmental monitoring remains promising, with advancements in AI algorithms, data collection techniques, and computing power expected to further improve accuracy and efficiency in pollution monitoring and management.
{"title":"Artificial intelligence in environmental monitoring: Advancements, challenges, and future directions","authors":"David B. Olawade , Ojima Z. Wada , Abimbola O. Ige , Bamise I. Egbewole , Adedayo Olojo , Bankole I. Oladapo","doi":"10.1016/j.heha.2024.100114","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.heha.2024.100114","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in environmental monitoring offers accurate disaster forecasts, pollution source detection, and comprehensive air and water quality monitoring. This article provides an overview of the value of environmental monitoring, the challenges of conventional methods, and potential AI-based solutions. Several significant AI applications in environmental monitoring are highlighted, showcasing their contributions to effective environmental management. AI technologies enhance environmental monitoring by enabling better understanding, prediction, and mitigation of environmental risks. However, realizing the full potential of AI faces hurdles such as a shortage of specialized AI experts in the environmental sector and challenges related to data access, control, and privacy. These issues are more pronounced in regions with developing technological infrastructure. The paper advocates for proactive data governance measures by governments to protect sensitive information. Despite these challenges, the future of AI in environmental monitoring remains promising, with advancements in AI algorithms, data collection techniques, and computing power expected to further improve accuracy and efficiency in pollution monitoring and management.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73269,"journal":{"name":"Hygiene and environmental health advances","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100114"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-10-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142553590","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-10-18DOI: 10.1016/j.heha.2024.100115
Xin Meng , Qiaoyi Hua , Ruiwei Xu , Yunxiu Shi , Yi Zhang , Meilin Yan , Wu Chen , Yifan Xu , Yunfei Fan , Yuan Yao , Teng Wang , Yidan Zhang , Haonan Li , Yaqi Yu , Xiaoyu Cui , Qianqian Chai , Ailin Li , Mengshuang Sheng , Rui Tang , Ruohong Qiao , Tong Zhu
The Tibetan Plateau is characterized by high ozone concentration which poses a significant public health concern. However, the causal evidence linking ozone pollution to adverse cardiopulmonary health impacts, as well as the understanding of its underlying biological mechanisms, remains limited. Additionally, exposure levels to particulate and other gaseous air pollutants along with their associated health effects in this region are largely unknown. To address these gaps, we conducted a prospective follow-up study in Tibet from May 2021 to November 2021. In consideration of the potential synergistic effects of chronic hypobaric hypoxia, two Tibetan cities with different altitudes, Lhasa (3650 m) and Nyingchi (3000 m), were chosen to implement atmospheric monitoring and health measurement. We employed cutting-edge, high-precision instruments at stationary monitoring sites to measure ambient air pollution and collected particle samples. Portable devices were used to monitor personal exposure levels of ozone and black carbon. A total of 212 healthy Tibetan college students participated in up to four clinical visits, yielding 774 visits in total, during which functional endpoints were measured and biological samples were collected. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the cardiorespiratory effects of ambient ozone under hypoxic conditions, where its impact may be amplified due to the region's unique environmental characteristics. The secondary aim is to provide a comprehensive assessment of other air pollutants, including their exposure levels, sources, and health effects. By addressing these aims, the study offers valuable insights into air quality and its health implications in this unique high-altitude setting. This paper outlines the research motivation, measurement framework, and preliminary findings.
{"title":"A prospective study on the cardiorespiratory effects of air pollution among residents of the Tibetan Plateau","authors":"Xin Meng , Qiaoyi Hua , Ruiwei Xu , Yunxiu Shi , Yi Zhang , Meilin Yan , Wu Chen , Yifan Xu , Yunfei Fan , Yuan Yao , Teng Wang , Yidan Zhang , Haonan Li , Yaqi Yu , Xiaoyu Cui , Qianqian Chai , Ailin Li , Mengshuang Sheng , Rui Tang , Ruohong Qiao , Tong Zhu","doi":"10.1016/j.heha.2024.100115","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.heha.2024.100115","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Tibetan Plateau is characterized by high ozone concentration which poses a significant public health concern. However, the causal evidence linking ozone pollution to adverse cardiopulmonary health impacts, as well as the understanding of its underlying biological mechanisms, remains limited. Additionally, exposure levels to particulate and other gaseous air pollutants along with their associated health effects in this region are largely unknown. To address these gaps, we conducted a prospective follow-up study in Tibet from May 2021 to November 2021. In consideration of the potential synergistic effects of chronic hypobaric hypoxia, two Tibetan cities with different altitudes, Lhasa (3650 m) and Nyingchi (3000 m), were chosen to implement atmospheric monitoring and health measurement. We employed cutting-edge, high-precision instruments at stationary monitoring sites to measure ambient air pollution and collected particle samples. Portable devices were used to monitor personal exposure levels of ozone and black carbon. A total of 212 healthy Tibetan college students participated in up to four clinical visits, yielding 774 visits in total, during which functional endpoints were measured and biological samples were collected. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the cardiorespiratory effects of ambient ozone under hypoxic conditions, where its impact may be amplified due to the region's unique environmental characteristics. The secondary aim is to provide a comprehensive assessment of other air pollutants, including their exposure levels, sources, and health effects. By addressing these aims, the study offers valuable insights into air quality and its health implications in this unique high-altitude setting. This paper outlines the research motivation, measurement framework, and preliminary findings.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73269,"journal":{"name":"Hygiene and environmental health advances","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100115"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-10-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142536251","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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