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Hageman G, van Broekhuizen P, Nihom J. The role of nanoparticles in bleed air in the etiology of Aerotoxic Syndrome: A review of cabin air-quality studies of 2003-2023. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2024:1-16. [PMID: 38593380 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2024.2327348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Aerotoxic Syndrome may develop as a result of chronic, low-level exposure to organophosphates (OPs) and volatile organic compounds in the airplane cabin air, caused by engine oil leaking past wet seals. Additionally, acute high-level exposures, so-called "fume events," may occur. However, air quality monitoring studies concluded that levels of inhaled chemicals might be too low to cause adverse effects. The presence of aerosols of nanoparticles (NPs) in bleed air has often been described. The specific hypothesis is a relation between NPs acting as a vector for toxic compounds in the etiology of the Aerotoxic Syndrome. These NPs function as carriers for toxic engine oil compounds leaking into the cabin air. Inhaled by aircrew NPs carrying soluble and insoluble components deposit in the alveolar region, where they are absorbed into the bloodstream. Subsequently, they may cross the blood-brain barrier and release their toxic compounds in the central nervous system. Olfactory absorption is another route for NPs with access to the brain. To study the hypothesis, all published in-flight measurement studies (2003-2023) of airborne volatile (and low-volatile) organic pollutants in cabin air were reviewed, including NPs (10-100 nm). Twelve studies providing data for a total of 387 flights in 16 different large-passenger jet aircraft types were selected. Maximum particle number concentrations (PNC) varied from 104 to 2.8 × 106 #/cm3 and maximum mass concentrations from 9 to 29 μg/m3. NP-peaks occurred after full-power take-off, in tailwind condition, after auxiliary power unit (APU) bleed air introduction, and after air conditioning pack failure. Chemical characterization of the NPs showed aliphatic hydrocarbons, black carbon, and metallic core particles. An aerosol mass-spectrometry pattern was consistent with aircraft engine oil. It is concluded that chronic exposure of aircrew to NP-aerosols, carrying oil derivatives, maybe a significant feature in the etiology of Aerotoxic Syndrome. Mobile NP measuring equipment should be made available in the cockpit for long-term monitoring of bleed air. Consequently, risk assessment of bleed air should include monitoring and analysis of NPs, studied in a prospective cohort design.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Hageman
- Department of Neurology, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Hospital Enschede, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - P van Broekhuizen
- Department of Environmental Studies (IVAM), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J Nihom
- Department of Neurology, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Hospital Enschede, Enschede, The Netherlands
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Hageman G, van Broekhuizen P, Nihom J. The role of carbon monoxide in aerotoxic syndrome. Neurotoxicology 2024; 100:107-116. [PMID: 38135191 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2023.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Chronic low-level exposure to toxic compounds in airplane cabin air may result in Aerotoxic Syndrome (AS). Aetiologic agents are organophosphates and numerous volatile organic hydrocarbons originating from leaks of engine oil and hydraulic fluids. Despite a documented history spanning decades, the role of carbon monoxide remains controversial. What evidence exists that carbon monoxide (CO), present in the cocktail of toxic compounds in bleed air, contributes to the AS? We selected 22 publications encompassing 888 flights with 18 different aircraft types. In one study of 100 flights, fume events were confirmed in 38. Four studies were initialized after air quality incidents. The cabin CO concentrations could be categorized in three levels, 1) low (<5 ppm), without health implications, 2) moderate (5-10 ppm) with probably health implications in case of chronic exposure, and 3) high > 10 ppm, with health effects in case of acute and chronic exposure. These levels were recorded in 12, 6 and 4 studies respectively. In the six studies in category 2, max CO concentrations ranged from 5.8-9.4 ppm. The four studies with CO > 10 ppm comprised 376 of the 888 flights (42%) with six aircraft types. Toxic CO levels ranging between 13-60 ppm were identified in at least 129 of 888 (14.5%) flights. In one study with high CO levels four flight attendants were diagnosed with CO poisoning with elevated HbCO levels. Max CO levels in aviation are either the same or higher than current occupational exposure limits (OEL) for ground-based workplace exposures or levels for urban street transport environments. Specific aspects of aviation should be taken into consideration: the effect of low(er) air pressure at high altitudes increasing the toxicity of CO, and the binding of CO to CYP enzymes, leading to impaired organophosphate detoxification. We conclude that CO must be considered an important factor in the lubrication derived cocktail of airborne toxic compounds causing AS. In line with the WHO advice, a reduction of the OEL to 5 ppm over 8 hr time weighted average (TWA) for aircrew is strongly recommended. And we advocate continuous monitoring during all phases of flight and installation of CO detectors in the air supply ducts to the aircraft cabin.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Hageman
- Department of Neurology, Medisch Spectrum Twente, hospital Enschede, Koningsplein 1, 7500 KA Enschede, the Netherlands.
| | - P van Broekhuizen
- University of Amsterdam, Spui 21, 1012 WX Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - J Nihom
- Department of Neurology, Medisch Spectrum Twente, hospital Enschede, Koningsplein 1, 7500 KA Enschede, the Netherlands
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Burdon J, Budnik LT, Baur X, Hageman G, Howard CV, Roig J, Coxon L, Furlong CE, Gee D, Loraine T, Terry AV, Midavaine J, Petersen H, Bron D, Soskolne CL, Michaelis S. Health consequences of exposure to aircraft contaminated air and fume events: a narrative review and medical protocol for the investigation of exposed aircrew and passengers. Environ Health 2023; 22:43. [PMID: 37194087 PMCID: PMC10186727 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-023-00987-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Thermally degraded engine oil and hydraulic fluid fumes contaminating aircraft cabin air conditioning systems have been well documented since the 1950s. Whilst organophosphates have been the main subject of interest, oil and hydraulic fumes in the air supply also contain ultrafine particles, numerous volatile organic hydrocarbons and thermally degraded products. We review the literature on the effects of fume events on aircrew health. Inhalation of these potentially toxic fumes is increasingly recognised to cause acute and long-term neurological, respiratory, cardiological and other symptoms. Cumulative exposure to regular small doses of toxic fumes is potentially damaging to health and may be exacerbated by a single higher-level exposure. Assessment is complex because of the limitations of considering the toxicity of individual substances in complex heated mixtures.There is a need for a systematic and consistent approach to diagnosis and treatment of persons who have been exposed to toxic fumes in aircraft cabins. The medical protocol presented in this paper has been written by internationally recognised experts and presents a consensus approach to the recognition, investigation and management of persons suffering from the toxic effects of inhaling thermally degraded engine oil and other fluids contaminating the air conditioning systems in aircraft, and includes actions and investigations for in-flight, immediately post-flight and late subsequent follow up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Burdon
- Respiratory Physician, St Vincent's Private Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lygia Therese Budnik
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Xaver Baur
- European Society for Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Berlin, Germany
- University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gerard Hageman
- Department of Neurology, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Hospital Enschede, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - C Vyvyan Howard
- Centre for Molecular Biosciences, University of Ulster, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Jordi Roig
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Clínica Creu Blanca, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Leonie Coxon
- Clinical and Forensic Psychologist, Mount Pleasant Psychology, Perth, Australia
| | - Clement E Furlong
- Departments of Medicine (Div. Medical Genetics) and Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - David Gee
- Centre for Pollution Research and Policy, Visiting Fellow, Brunel University, London, UK
| | - Tristan Loraine
- Technical Consultant, Spokesperson for the Global Cabin Air Quality Executive, London, UK
| | - Alvin V Terry
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, USA
| | | | - Hannes Petersen
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Akureyri Hospital, Akureyri, Iceland
| | - Denis Bron
- Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), Aeromedical Institute (FAI)/AeMC, Air Force, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Colin L Soskolne
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Susan Michaelis
- Occupational and Environmental Health Research Group, Honorary Senior Research Fellow, University of Stirling, Scotland / Michaelis Aviation Consulting, West Sussex, England.
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Gerber LS, van Kleef RGDM, Fokkens P, Cassee FR, Westerink RH. In vitro neurotoxicity screening of engine oil- and hydraulic fluid-derived aircraft cabin bleed-air contamination. Neurotoxicology 2023; 96:184-196. [PMID: 37120036 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2023.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
In most airplanes, cabin air is extracted from the turbine compressors, so-called bleed air. Bleed air can become contaminated by leakage of engine oil or hydraulic fluid and possible neurotoxic constituents, like triphenyl phosphate (TPhP) and tributyl phosphate (TBP). The aim of this study was to characterize the neurotoxic hazard of TBP and TPhP, and to compare this with the possible hazard of fumes originating from engine oils and hydraulic fluids in vitro. Effects on spontaneous neuronal activity were recorded in rat primary cortical cultures grown on microelectrode arrays following exposure for 0.5h (acute), and 24h and 48h (prolonged) to TBP and TPhP (0.01 - 100µM) or fume extracts (1 - 100µg/mL) prepared from four selected engine oils and two hydraulic fluids by a laboratory bleed air simulator. TPhP and TBP concentration-dependently reduced neuronal activity with equal potency, particularly during acute exposure (TPhP IC50: 10 - 12µM; TBP IC50: 15 - 18µM). Engine oil-derived fume extracts persistently reduced neuronal activity. Hydraulic fluid-derived fume extracts showed a stronger inhibition during 0.5h exposure, but the degree of inhibition attenuates during 48h. Overall, fume extracts from hydraulic fluids were more potent than those from engine oils, in particular during 0.5h exposure, although the higher toxicity is unlikely to be due only to higher levels of TBP and TPhP in hydraulic fluids. Our combined data show that bleed air contaminants originating from selected engine oils or hydraulic fluids exhibit neurotoxic hazard in vitro, with fumes derived from the selected hydraulic fluids being most potent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lora-Sophie Gerber
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Regina G D M van Kleef
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Paul Fokkens
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Flemming R Cassee
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Remco Hs Westerink
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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Saastamoinen P, Laaksovirta H, Leino-Arjas P, Rahkonen O. New evidence on the association of occupation with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A register-based case-control study in Finland. Front Neurol 2022; 13:859824. [PMID: 36188364 PMCID: PMC9515316 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.859824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectivesAmyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a serious neurodegenerative disease that usually leads to death within a few years from diagnosis. The risk factors for ALS are still largely unknown. However, it is assumed that environmental factors play a role in disease onset. Occupation is suggested as a potential risk factor, but findings are inconsistent. The aim of this study was to assess the association of occupation with ALS in Finland. Register data were used to avoid recall bias and to obtain a large enough sample to detect the potential associations.MethodsThis case-control study included ALS cases that occurred between 1980 and 2015 in Finland (n = 4,781). ALS cases were identified from the causes of death register. For each ALS case, six controls were selected matched for sex and birth-year. The date of death of the ALS case was set as index date. Information on occupation was obtained from Statistics Finland for all subjects. The focus was on the longest-held occupation on 2-digit level (70 groups). The association of occupation with ALS was analyzed using conditional logistic regression.ResultsCompared to “clerical work and other office work,” the risk of ALS was increased in “packing and wrapping work” (OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.08–2.17), “laundering, dry cleaning and pressing work” (OR 1.83, 95% CI 1.08–3.08), and “travel service work” (OR 8.75, CI 2.76–27.74). A decreased risk was found in “planning, administrative and research work in the technical fields” (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.48–0.98). Of the significant associations identified, only “travel service work” was significant after FDR multiple testing correction.ConclusionsThis study identified occupations in which the risk of ALS was increased. Further studies are needed to pinpoint the potential exposures in these occupations that may trigger the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peppiina Saastamoinen
- Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Finnish Medical Association, Helsinki, Finland
- *Correspondence: Peppiina Saastamoinen
| | | | | | - Ossi Rahkonen
- Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Wallraff JP, Ungeheuer F, Dombrowski A, Oehlmann J, Vogel AL. Occurrence and in vitro toxicity of organic compounds in urban background PM 2.5. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 817:152779. [PMID: 35007573 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This study describes the chemical composition and in vitro toxicity of the organic fraction of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) at an urban background site, which receives emissions either from Frankfurt international airport or the city centre, respectively. We analysed the chemical composition of filter extracts (PM2.5) using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled to a high-resolution mass spectrometer, followed by a non-target analysis. In parallel, we applied the bulk of the filter extracts to a Microtox and acetylcholinesterase-inhibition assay for in vitro toxicity testing. We find that both the chemical composition and toxicity depend on the prevailing wind directions, and the airport operating condition, respectively. The occurrence of the airport marker compounds tricresyl phosphate and pentaerythritol esters depends on the time of the day, reflecting the night flight ban as well as an airport strike event during November 2019. We compared the organic aerosol composition and toxicity from the airport wind-sector against the city centre wind-sector. We find that urban background aerosol shows a higher baseline toxicity and acetylcholinesterase inhibition compared to rural PM2.5 that is advected over the airport. Our results indicate that the concentration and individual composition of PM2.5 influence the toxicity. Suspected drivers of the acetylcholinesterase inhibition are i.e. organophosphorus esters like triphenyl phosphate and cresyldiphenyl phosphate, and the non-ionic surfactant 4-tert-octylphenol ethoxylate. However, further research is necessary to unambiguously identify harmful organic air pollutants and their sources and quantify concentration levels at which adverse effects in humans and the environment can occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas P Wallraff
- Institute for Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Altenhöferallee 1, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Florian Ungeheuer
- Institute for Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Altenhöferallee 1, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Andrea Dombrowski
- Institute of Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jörg Oehlmann
- Institute of Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Alexander L Vogel
- Institute for Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Altenhöferallee 1, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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Chen R, He J, Li Y, An L, Hu J. Tricresyl phosphate inhibits fertilization in Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes): Emphasizing metabolic toxicity. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 297:118809. [PMID: 35016985 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.118809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
As tricresyl phosphate (TCrP) is commonly found in global water sources, its potential reproductive toxicity to fish is of increasing concern. Japanese medaka larvae were exposed to TCrP at 657.9, 1,511, and 4042 ng/L for 100 days. We identified significant fertilization inhibition (6.9%-12.8%) in all exposure groups. Intersex was significantly induced at 4042 ng/L, with an incidence of 22.0%. TCrP exposure also caused dilation of the efferent duct in the testes with maximum duct widths of 83.3, 93.2, and 149.7 μm in the 657.9, 1,511, and 4042 ng/L exposure groups, respectively. These widths were all significantly larger than that observed in the control group (37.7 μm) and likely contributed substantially to fertilization inhibition. The TCrP metabolites 4-OH-MDTP and 3-OH-MDTP, were detected at high concentrations in the liver and elicited 5.8-fold and 5.3-fold greater androgen receptor antagonistic activity than that elicited by TCrP (39.8 μM), which may explain the intersex observed in low exposure groups. 4-OH-MDTP and 3-OH-MDTP elicited anti-estrogenic activities by blocking the estrogen receptor, and the concentrations at which its responses were equal to the IC20 of tamoxifen were 16.1 μM and 18.9 μM, respectively, as detected using the yeast two-hybrid assay. Such anti-estrogenic activities were likely the main driver of dilation of the efferent duct. Observed adverse outcomes after exposure to TCrP all occurred under environmentally relevant concentrations, suggesting considerable ecological risk to wild fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruichao Chen
- MOE Laboratory for Earth Surface Process, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jianwu He
- MOE Laboratory for Earth Surface Process, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Yu Li
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Lihui An
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Jianying Hu
- MOE Laboratory for Earth Surface Process, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
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Liu Z, Sun Y, Zeng Y, Guan Y, Huang Y, Chen Y, Li D, Mo L, Chen S, Mai B. Semi-volatile organic compounds in fine particulate matter on a tropical island in the South China Sea. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 426:128071. [PMID: 34922134 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.128071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Measurements of hazardous semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) in remote tropical regions are rare. In this study, polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs) [including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), nitrated PAHs (NPAHs), and oxygenated PAHs (OPAHs)], organophosphate esters (OPEs), and phthalic acid esters (PAEs) were measured in fine particulate matter (PM2.5) at Yongxing Island in the South China Sea (SCS). The concentrations of PACs (median = 53.5 pg/m3) were substantially low compared with previous measurements. The concentration weighted trajectory (CWT) model showed that the eastern and southern China was the main source region of PAC, occurring largely during the northeast (NE) monsoon. The PM2.5 showed remarkably high concentrations of OPEs (median = 3231 pg/m3) and moderate concentrations of PAEs (13,013 pg/m3). Some Southeast Asian countries were largely responsible for their higher concentrations, driven by the tropical SCS monsoons. We found significant atmospheric loss of the SVOCs, which is an explanation for the low concentrations of PACs. Enhanced formation of N/OPAHs originated from tropical regions was also observed. The positive matrix factorization model was applied to apportion the SVOC sources. The results, as well as correlation analyses of the SVOC concentrations, further indicate insignificant local sources and enhanced atmospheric reactions on this island.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Liu
- School of Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yuxin Sun
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-Resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Yuan Zeng
- School of Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yufeng Guan
- School of Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yuqi Huang
- School of Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yuping Chen
- School of Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Daning Li
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-Resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Ling Mo
- Water Quality Monitoring Section, Hainan Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Haikou 571126, China
| | - Shejun Chen
- School of Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Bixian Mai
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Protection and Resources Utilization, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
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Xiang D, Wang Q. PXR-mediated organophorous flame retardant tricresyl phosphate effects on lipid homeostasis. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 284:131250. [PMID: 34225124 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.131250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
An emerging experimental framework suggests that endocrine-disrupting compounds are candidate obesogens. However, this potential effect has not yet been determined for Tricresyl phosphate (TCP), a mass-produced organophosphate flame retardant (OPFR) that has been exposed to human beings in many ways. Many OPFRs, including TCP, have been shown to activate pregnane X receptor (PXR), a nuclear receptor that regulates lipid metabolism. Accordingly, we found that TCP exposure caused lipid accumulation in HepG2 cells in this study. Therefore, to elucidate the role of PXR played in TCP metabolism and promotion of lipid accumulation, HepG2 cells were exposed to different concentrations (5 × 10-8 to 5 × 10-5 M) of TCP for 24 h. The enlarged hepatic lipid droplets and increased hepatic triglyceride contents were observed in HepG2 cells after TCP exposure for 24 h. This is the result of a confluence of lipogenesis increase and β-oxidation suppression imposed by PXR activation which was verified by the up regulation of genes in fatty acid (FA) synthesis and the down regulation of genes in β-oxidation. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis and molecular docking revealed favorable binding mode of TCP to PXR and the knockout of PXR gene with CRISPR/cpf1 system in HepG2 cells abolished TCP-induced triglyceride accumulation, thus underlying the crucial role of PXR in hepatic lipid metabolism resulting from OPFRs exposure. This study enhances our understanding of molecular mechanisms and associations of PXR in lipid metabolism disturbance induced by TCP and provides novel evidence regarding the lipotoxicity effect and potential metabolism pathway of OPFRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Xiang
- Institute of Fruit Tree Research, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of South Subtropical Fruit Biology and Genetic Resource Utilization (MOA), Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Tropical and Subtropical Fruit Tree Research, Guangzhou, 510640, PR China; Ministry of Agriculture Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Institute of Pesticide and Environmental Toxicology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China
| | - Qiangwei Wang
- Ministry of Agriculture Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Institute of Pesticide and Environmental Toxicology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, PR China.
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Hayes K, Megson D, Doyle A, O'Sullivan G. Occupational risk of organophosphates and other chemical and radiative exposure in the aircraft cabin: A systematic review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 796:148742. [PMID: 34375198 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Occupational exposure to oil fumes, organophosphates, halogenated flame retardants, and other volatile and semi-volatile contaminants is a concern within the aviation industry. There is no current consensus on the risk attributed to exposure to these chemical classes within the aircraft cabin. Contaminant concentrations rarely exceed conventional air quality guidelines, but concerns have been raised about these guidelines' applicability within the aircraft environment. This systematic review, the largest and most comprehensive completed to date on the subject matter, aims to synthesize the existing research related to chemical and other exposures inside the aircraft cabin to determine the occupational risk that may be attributed said exposure, as well as, determine knowledge gaps in source, pathway, and receptor that may exist. The Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were queried with five search terms generating 138 manuscripts that met acceptance criteria and screening. Several potential areas requiring future examination were identified: Potable water on aircraft should be examined as a potential source of pollutant exposure, as should air conditioning expansion turbines. Historical exposure should also be more fully explored, and non-targeted analysis could provide valuable information to comprehend the aircraft cabin exposome. Occupational risk under typical flight scenarios appears to be limited for most healthy individuals. Contaminants of concern were demonstrated to be extant within the cabin, however the concentrations under normal circumstances do not appear to be individually responsible for the symptomologies that are present in impacted individuals. Questions remain regarding those that are more vulnerable or susceptible to exposure. Additionally, establishing the effects of chronic low dose exposure and exposure to contaminant mixtures has not been satisfied. The risk of acute exposure in mitigable fume events is substantial, and technological solutions or the replacement of compounds of concern for safer alternatives should be a priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Hayes
- Manchester Metropolitan University, Department of Natural Sciences, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, UK; Mount Royal University, Department of Earth & Environmental Science, Calgary, Alberta T3E 6K6, Canada.
| | - David Megson
- Manchester Metropolitan University, Department of Natural Sciences, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, UK
| | - Aidan Doyle
- Manchester Metropolitan University, Department of Natural Sciences, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, UK
| | - Gwen O'Sullivan
- Mount Royal University, Department of Earth & Environmental Science, Calgary, Alberta T3E 6K6, Canada
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Michaelis S, Loraine T, Howard CV. Ultrafine particle levels measured on board short-haul commercial passenger jet aircraft. Environ Health 2021; 20:89. [PMID: 34404396 PMCID: PMC8371761 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-021-00770-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Airline crew members report adverse health effects during and after inhalation exposure to engine oil fumes sourced to the air supply system onboard commercial and military aircraft. Most investigations into the causal factors of their reported symptoms focus on specific chemical contaminants in the fumes. The adverse health effects reported in aircrew exposed to the aircraft air supply, bled unfiltered off the engine or Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) may be related to particulate exposures, which are widely known to effect health. While oil contaminates the aircraft air supply, some suggest that this will only occur when there is a bearing seal failure, others document that there is low level oil contamination of the air supply during normal engine operation. This brief pilot study explores whether particulate exposure may be associated with the normal engine/APU and air supply operation and to therefore increase the understanding that UFP exposures may have on crew and passengers. METHODS An ultrafine particle counter was utilised by an experienced airline captain in the passenger cabin of four short-haul commercial passenger aircraft. All flights were under 90 min on aircraft from two different carriers ranging from 7 months to 14 years old. RESULTS UFP concentrations showed maximum concentrations ranging from 31,300 to 97,800 particles/cm3 when APU was selected on as a source of air on the ground and with engine bleed air and the air conditioning packs selected on during the climb. In 2 of the 4 flights the peaks were associated with an engine oil smell. Increases in UFP particle concentrations occurred with changes in engine/APU power and air supply configuration changes. CONCLUSIONS This study identified increases in UFP concentrations associated with engine and APU power changes and changes in air supply configuration. These results correlated with times when engine and APU oil seals are known to be less effective, enabling oil leakage to occur. The concentrations reached in the passenger cabins exceeded those taken in other ground-based environments. UFP exposures in aircraft cabins during normal flight indicates there will be health consequences for long serving aircrew and some passengers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Michaelis
- Occupational and Environmental Health Research Group, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | | | - C. V. Howard
- Centre for Molecular Biosciences, University of Ulster, Ulster, UK
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Abou-Donia MB, Brahmajothi MV. Novel Approach for Detecting the Neurological or Behavioral Impact of Physiological Episodes (PEs) in Military Aircraft Crews. Mil Med 2020; 185:383-389. [DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usz295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
Military and civil aviation have documented physiological episodes among aircrews. Therefore, continued efforts are being made to improve the internal environment. Studies have shown that exposures to many organic compounds present in emissions are known to cause a variety of physiological symptoms. We hypothesize that these compounds may reversibly inhibit acetylcholinesterase, which may disrupt synaptic signaling. As a result, neural proteins leak through the damaged blood-brain barrier into the blood and in some, elicit an autoimmune response.
Materials and Methods
Neural-specific autoantibodies of immunoglobulin-G (IgG) class were estimated by the Western blotting technique in the sera of 26 aircrew members and compared with the sera of 19 normal healthy nonaircrew members, used as controls.
Results
We found significantly elevated levels of circulating IgG-class autoantibodies to neurofilament triplet proteins, tubulin, microtubule-associated tau proteins (Tau), microtubule-associated protein-2, myelin basic protein, and glial fibrillary acidic protein, but not S100 calcium-binding protein B compared to healthy controls.
Conclusion
Repetitive physiological episodes may initiate cellular injury, leading to neuronal degeneration in selected individuals. Diagnosis and intervention should occur at early postinjury periods. Use of blood-based biomarkers to assess subclinical brain injury would help in both diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed B Abou-Donia
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, PO Box 3813, LSRC, 308 Research Drive, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Mulugu V Brahmajothi
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, PO Box 3813, LSRC, 308 Research Drive, Durham, NC 27710
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13
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Tokumura M, Ogo S, Kume K, Muramatsu K, Wang Q, Miyake Y, Amagai T, Makino M. Comparison of rates of direct and indirect migration of phosphorus flame retardants from flame-retardant-treated polyester curtains to indoor dust. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2019; 169:464-469. [PMID: 30472470 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2018.11.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Revised: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the pathways for migration of phosphorus flame retardants (PFRs), tris(1,3-dichloroisopropyl) phosphate (TDCPP) and tricresyl phosphate (TCsP) which were detected from curtains often, from flame-retardant-treated polyester curtains to indoor dust were investigated. Two possible migration pathways were compared quantitatively: (1) an indirect pathway in which the PFRs in the curtains first evaporate from the curtains and are then adsorbed onto indoor dust and (2) a direct pathway in which the PFRs are directly transferred to dust placed on the curtains. The contribution of the indirect pathway was evaluated by means of emission cell tests, which showed that the area-specific emission rates from curtains treated with PFRs were 0.044 (TDCPP, Curtain 5), 0.17 (TDCPP, Curtain 8), and 0.060 (TCsP, Curtain 12) μg m-2 h-1 at 20 °C (averaged during 24 h). The contribution of the direct pathway was evaluated by measurement of the time dependence of PFR concentrations on the indoor dust placed on the curtains. These measurements indicated that PFR concentrations on the dust increased with time and that the direct migration rates of PFRs from curtains treated with PFRs were 4.4 (TDCPP, Curtain 5), 12 (TDCPP, Curtain 8), and 7.0 (TCsP, Curtain 12) μg m-2 h-1 at 20 °C (averaged during 24 h), or 71-120 times the indirect migration rate. This result suggests that the direct pathway can be expected to predominate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Tokumura
- Graduate Division of Nutritional and Environmental Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Sayaka Ogo
- Shizuoka Institute of Environment and Hygiene, Shizuoka, Japan
| | | | - Kosuke Muramatsu
- Department of Nutritional and Environmental Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Qi Wang
- Graduate Division of Nutritional and Environmental Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Yuichi Miyake
- Graduate Division of Nutritional and Environmental Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan.
| | - Takashi Amagai
- Graduate Division of Nutritional and Environmental Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan.
| | - Masakazu Makino
- Graduate Division of Nutritional and Environmental Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan
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Megson D, Hajimirzaee S, Doyle A, Cannon F, Balouet JC. Investigating the potential for transisomerisation of trycresyl phosphate with a palladium catalyst and its implications for aircraft cabin air quality. CHEMOSPHERE 2019; 215:532-534. [PMID: 30342398 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.10.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The quality of aircraft cabin air has been an area of concern for several decades. Many investigations have linked the presence of organophosphates in air to Aerotoxic Syndrome with adverse symptoms reported by thousands of aircraft crew across the globe. Currently the source of organophosphates has been under debate, with studies pointing towards tricresylphosphates (TCP) in aircraft oil as the main source due to leaks in engine seals resulting in fumes entering the cabin. However, comparisons of oil and cabin samples have shown that the cabin samples contain a much higher proportion of ortho-substituted TCP than is commonly detected in oil. The aim of this experiment was to investigate the potential for palladium catalysts (present in aircraft air conditioning systems) to convert meta- and para-substituted TCP to produce ortho-substituted TCP through transisomerisation. This experiment was performed in a controlled laboratory setting aimed to represent the conditions likely to be experienced in aircraft. Samples were introduced to a stainless steel micro reactor tube containing the pelletized palladium catalyst using a HPLC pump with a 0.2 ml/min feed flow rate. The temperature maintained at 400 °C over a period of 1 h and samples collected using a condensing vesicle. These were then diluted and transferred to a 2 mL vial for analysis by gas chromatography mass spectrometry. No evidence supporting the transisomerisation of tricresylphosphate was obtained. This indicates that more emphasis should be placed on identifying other potential sources of ortho substituted TCP.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Megson
- Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK.
| | | | - Aidan Doyle
- Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
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15
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Naughton SX, Terry AV. Neurotoxicity in acute and repeated organophosphate exposure. Toxicology 2018; 408:101-112. [PMID: 30144465 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2018.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 08/03/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The term organophosphate (OP) refers to a diverse group of chemicals that are found in hundreds of products worldwide. As pesticides, their most common use, OPs are clearly beneficial for agricultural productivity and the control of deadly vector-borne illnesses. However, as a consequence of their widespread use, OPs are now among the most common synthetic chemicals detected in the environment as well as in animal and human tissues. This is an increasing environmental concern because many OPs are highly toxic and both accidental and intentional exposures to OPs resulting in deleterious health effects have been documented for decades. Some of these deleterious health effects include a variety of long-term neurological and psychiatric disturbances including impairments in attention, memory, and other domains of cognition. Moreover, some chronic illnesses that manifest these symptoms such as Gulf War Illness and Aerotoxic Syndrome have (at least in part) been attributed to OP exposure. In addition to acute acetylcholinesterase inhibition, OPs may affect a number of additional targets that lead to oxidative stress, axonal transport deficits, neuroinflammation, and autoimmunity. Some of these targets could be exploited for therapeutic purposes. The purpose of this review is thus to: 1) describe the important uses of organophosphate (OP)-based compounds worldwide, 2) provide an overview of the various risks and toxicology associated with OP exposure, particularly long-term neurologic and psychiatric symptoms, 3) discuss mechanisms of OP toxicity beyond cholinesterase inhibition, 4) review potential therapeutic strategies to reverse the acute toxicity and long term deleterious effects of OPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean X Naughton
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, 30912, Georgia
| | - Alvin V Terry
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, 30912, Georgia.
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16
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Abstract
One of the major classes of pesticides is that of the organophosphates (OPs). Initial developments date back almost 2 centuries but it was only in the mid-1940s that OPs reached a prominent status as insecticides, a status that, albeit declining, is still ongoing. OPs are highly toxic to nontarget species including humans, the primary effects being an acute cholinergic toxicity (responsible for thousands of poisoning each year) and a delayed polyneuropathy. Several issues of current debate and investigation on the toxicology of OPs are discussed in this brief review. These include (1) possible additional targets of OPs, (2) OPs as developmental neurotoxicants, (3) OPs and neurodegenerative diseases, (4) OPs and the "aerotoxic syndrome," (5) OPs and the microbiome, and (6) OPs and cancer. Some of these issues have been debated and studied for some time, while others are newer, suggesting that the study of the toxicology of OPs will remain an important scientific and public health issue for years to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucio G Costa
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98105
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma 43100, Italy
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17
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Lotti M, Moretto A. Commentary to Merwin SJ, Obis T, Nunez Y, Re DB (2017) Organophosphate neurotoxicity to the voluntary motor system on the trail of environment-caused amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: the known, the misknown, and the unknown. Arch Toxicol [Epub ahead of print]. doi:10.1007/s00204-016-1926-1. Arch Toxicol 2017; 91:3189-3190. [PMID: 28540406 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-017-1992-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marcello Lotti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cardiologiche, Cardiochirurgiche e Vascolari, Università degli Studi di Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, Italy.
| | - Angelo Moretto
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via GB Grassi 74, 20157, Milan, Italy
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Duarte DJ, Rutten JM, van den Berg M, Westerink RH. In vitro neurotoxic hazard characterization of different tricresyl phosphate (TCP) isomers and mixtures. Neurotoxicology 2017; 59:222-230. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2016.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2015] [Revised: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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19
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Merwin SJ, Obis T, Nunez Y, Re DB. Organophosphate neurotoxicity to the voluntary motor system on the trail of environment-caused amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: the known, the misknown, and the unknown. Arch Toxicol 2017; 91:2939-2952. [PMID: 28070599 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-016-1926-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common adult-onset paralytic disorder. It is characterized by progressive degeneration of the motor neurons controlling voluntary movement. The underlying mechanisms remain elusive, a fact that has precluded development of effective treatments. ALS presents as a sporadic condition 90-95% of the time, i.e., without familial history or obvious genetic mutation. This suggests that ALS has a strong environmental component. Organophosphates (OPs) are prime candidate neurotoxicants in the etiology of ALS, as exposure to OPs was linked to higher ALS incidence among farmers, soccer players, and Gulf War veterans. In addition, polymorphisms in paraoxonase 1, an enzyme that detoxifies OPs, may increase individual vulnerability both to OP poisoning and to the risk of developing ALS. Furthermore, exposure to high doses of OPs can give rise to OP-induced delayed neuropathy (OPIDN), a debilitating condition akin to ALS characterized by similar motor impairment and paralysis. The question we pose in this review is: "what can we learn from acute exposure to high doses of neurotoxicants (OPIDN) that could help our understanding of chronic diseases resulting from potentially decades of silent exposure (ALS)?" The resemblances between OPIDN and ALS are striking at the clinical, etiological, neuropathological, cellular, and potentially molecular levels. Here, we critically present available evidence, discuss current limitations, and posit future research. In the search for the environmental origin of ALS, OPIDN offers an exciting trail to follow, which can hopefully lead to the development of novel strategies to prevent and cure these dreadful disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J Merwin
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.,NIEHS Center for Environmental Health Sciences in Northern Manhattan, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.,Center for Motor Neuron Biology and Disease, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Teresa Obis
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.,NIEHS Center for Environmental Health Sciences in Northern Manhattan, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.,Center for Motor Neuron Biology and Disease, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Yanelli Nunez
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.,NIEHS Center for Environmental Health Sciences in Northern Manhattan, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.,Center for Motor Neuron Biology and Disease, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.,Toxicology Ph.D. Program, Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Diane B Re
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA. .,NIEHS Center for Environmental Health Sciences in Northern Manhattan, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA. .,Center for Motor Neuron Biology and Disease, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA. .,, 722 W 168th street Suite 1107B, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
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20
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Megson D, Ortiz X, Jobst KJ, Reiner EJ, Mulder MFA, Balouet JC. A comparison of fresh and used aircraft oil for the identification of toxic substances linked to aerotoxic syndrome. CHEMOSPHERE 2016; 158:116-123. [PMID: 27258902 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.05.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2016] [Revised: 05/16/2016] [Accepted: 05/21/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Fresh and used aircraft engine lubricants (Mobil Jet Oil II) were analysed using a Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance Mass Spectrometer (FTICRMS) and comprehensive two dimensional gas chromatography with high resolution time of flight mass spectrometry (GCxGC-HRTOFMS). The composition of the fresh oil was established, with special focus to its tricresyl phosphate (TCP) content as this has formed the focus for most investigations into aerotoxic syndrome. The results showed that only four TCP isomers were present at detectable levels in the fresh oil: mmm-TCP, mmp-TCP, ppm-TCP and ppp-TCP. The results indicate that the formulation of Mobile Jet Oil II does not contain the more toxic ortho substituted TCP isomers at concentrations above 0.0005%. The temperatures of jet engines during operation are greater than 200 °C which creates the potential to alter the composition of the original oil and create other toxic compounds. The results show there may be a significant risk from alkylated cresyl phosphates, which were identified in the used oils at concentrations calculated in the range of 0.13-0.69%. w/w. Several xylenyl and ethylphenyl phosphates have been shown to exhibit a similar toxicity to ortho substituted TCP isomers which makes there discovery in used oil significant. These compounds should be included in future aircraft air quality studies and when assessing the risks and causes of aerotoxic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Megson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Xavier Ortiz
- Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, 125 Resources Road, Canada
| | - Karl J Jobst
- Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, 125 Resources Road, Canada
| | - Eric J Reiner
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, 125 Resources Road, Canada
| | - Michel F A Mulder
- Aviation Medical Consult, Karbouwstraat 14, 1402 VC Bussum, The Netherlands
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21
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Wolkoff P, Crump DR, Harrison PTC. Pollutant exposures and health symptoms in aircrew and office workers: Is there a link? ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2016; 87:74-84. [PMID: 26641522 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2015.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Revised: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Sensory effects in eyes and airways are common symptoms reported by aircraft crew and office workers. Neurological symptoms, such as headache, have also been reported. To assess the commonality and differences in exposures and health symptoms, a literature search of aircraft cabin and office air concentrations of non-reactive volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and ozone-initiated terpene reaction products were compiled and assessed. Data for tricresyl phosphates, in particular tri-ortho-cresyl phosphate (ToCP), were also compiled, as well as information on other risk factors such as low relative humidity. A conservative health risk assessment for eye, airway and neurological effects was undertaken based on a "worst-case scenario" which assumed a simultaneous constant exposure for 8h to identified maximum concentrations in aircraft and offices. This used guidelines and reference values for sensory irritation for eyes and upper airways and airflow limitation; a tolerable daily intake value was used for ToCP. The assessment involved the use of hazard quotients or indexes, defined as the summed ratio(s) (%) of compound concentration(s) divided by their guideline value(s). The concentration data suggest that, under the assumption of a conservative "worst-case scenario", aircraft air and office concentrations of the compounds in question are not likely to be associated with sensory symptoms in eyes and airways. This is supported by the fact that maximum concentrations are, in general, associated with infrequent incidents and brief exposures. Sensory symptoms, in particular in eyes, appear to be exacerbated by environmental and occupational conditions that differ in aircraft and offices, e.g., ozone incidents, low relative humidity, low cabin pressure, and visual display unit work. The data do not support airflow limitation effects. For ToCP, in view of the conservative approach adopted here and the rareness of reported incidents, the health risk of exposure to this compound in aircraft is considered negligible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peder Wolkoff
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Denmark.
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22
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Harrison V, Mackenzie Ross SJ. An emerging concern: Toxic fumes in airplane cabins. Cortex 2015; 74:297-302. [PMID: 26707465 DOI: 10.1016/j.cortex.2015.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2015] [Revised: 11/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Harrison
- Department of Psychology, Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, UK.
| | - Sarah J Mackenzie Ross
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational & Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
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Papachlimitzou A, Barber JL, Losada S, Bersuder P, Deaville R, Brownlow A, Penrose R, Jepson PD, Law RJ. Organophosphorus flame retardants (PFRs) and plasticisers in harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) stranded or bycaught in the UK during 2012. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2015; 98:328-334. [PMID: 26099790 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2015.06.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Revised: 06/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
A suite of twenty organophosphorus flame retardant compounds have been determined in blubber and liver tissue of twenty harbour porpoises stranded or bycaught in the UK during 2012 in order to establish current levels of contamination. Fourteen of the twenty compounds were below the limits of quantification in all samples. Six could be quantified at maximum concentrations (in blubber) between 6.7 and 246μgkg(-1) wet weight. These levels do not suggest a high level of concern regarding potential impacts and do not indicate that routine monitoring in UK porpoises is warranted at this time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Papachlimitzou
- The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Cefas Lowestoft Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0HT, UK
| | - Jonathan L Barber
- The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Cefas Lowestoft Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0HT, UK.
| | - Sara Losada
- The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Cefas Lowestoft Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0HT, UK
| | - Philippe Bersuder
- The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Cefas Lowestoft Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0HT, UK
| | - Rob Deaville
- Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Andrew Brownlow
- SAC Consulting Veterinary Services, Stratherrick Road, Inverness IV2 4JZ, UK
| | - Rod Penrose
- Marine Environmental Monitoring, Penwalk, Llechryd, Cardigan, Ceredigion SA43 2PS, UK
| | - Paul D Jepson
- Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Robin J Law
- The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Cefas Lowestoft Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0HT, UK; Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
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