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Wang J, Janson C, Gislason T, Gunnbjörnsdottir M, Jogi R, Orru H, Norbäck D. Volatile organic compounds (VOC) in homes associated with asthma and lung function among adults in Northern Europe. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 321:121103. [PMID: 36690293 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Associations between measured specific VOC reported to be associated with dampness and microbial growth in dwellings and asthma, lung function were investigated in 159 adults (one adult/home) from three North European cities (Reykjavik, Uppsala and Tartu). Spirometry was performed and forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and FEV1/FVC were measured. Among 159 participants, 58% were females, 24.5% atopics, 25.8% current smokers and 41% reported dampness or mold at home. Dimethyl disulphide (p = 0.004), ethyl isobutyrate (p = 0.021) and ethyl 2-methylbutyrate (p = 0.035) were associated with asthma. Isobutanol (p = 0.043), 3-methyl-1-butanol (p = 0.020), 2-hexanone (p = 0.033), 1-octen-3-ol (p = 0.027), 2-methyl-1-butanol (p = 0.022) and 2-ethyl-1-hexanol (p = 0.045) were associated with lower FEV1. Isobutanol (p = 0.004), 3-methyl-1-butanol (p = 0.001), 2-heptanone (p = 0.047) and 2-methyl-1-butanol (p = 0.002) were associated with lower FEV1/FVC. The association between dimethyl disulphide and asthma was more pronounced in females (p for interaction 0.099). The association between 1-butanol and lower FEV1 was more pronounced in males (p for interaction 0.046). The associations between 3-octanone (p for interaction 0.064), 2-ethyl-1-hexanol (p for interaction 0.049) and lower FEV1, and between 2-heptanone (p for interaction 0.021), 3-octanone (p for interaction 0.008) and lower FEV1/FVC were stronger in homes with dampness/mold. Factor analysis identified one VOC factor related to asthma and two VOC factors related to lower lung function. Increased air concentrations of 2-heptanone, ethyl 2-methylbutyrate and ethyl isobutyrate were related to prescence of certain mold species (Aspergillus sp., Cladosporum sp. and Penicillium sp.) or building dampness. Some VOC were associated with type of dwelling, building age and pet keeping. In conclusion, some VOC reported to be associated with dampness and microbial growth can be associated with asthma and lower lung function in adults. Associations between these VOC and respiratory illness can be stronger in homes with dampness/mold. There can be gender differences in respiratory health effects when exposed to indoor VOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Wang
- Department of Medical Sciences, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Christer Janson
- Department of Medical Sciences, Respiratory-, Allergy- and Sleep Research, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Thorarinn Gislason
- Department of Sleep, Landspitali University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Maria Gunnbjörnsdottir
- Department of Sleep, Landspitali University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Rain Jogi
- Lung Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Hans Orru
- Institute of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia; Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Dept of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Dan Norbäck
- Department of Medical Sciences, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Influence of Home Indoor Dampness Exposure on Volatile Organic Compounds in Exhaled Breath of Mothers and Their Infants: The NELA Birth Cohort. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12146864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Currently, the effect of exposure to indoor air contaminants and the presence of dampness at home on respiratory/atopic health is of particular concern to physicians. The measurement of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in exhaled breath is a useful approach for monitoring environmental exposures. A great advantage of this strategy is that it allows the study of the impact of pollutants on the metabolism through a non-invasive method. In this paper, the levels of nine VOCs (acetone, isoprene, toluene, p/m-xylene, o-xylene, styrene, benzaldehyde, naphthalene, and 2-ethyl-1-hexanol) in the exhaled breath of subjects exposed and not exposed to home dampness were assessed. Exhaled breath samples were collected from 337 mother–child pairs of a birth cohort and analysed by gas-chromatography–mass-spectrometry. It was observed that the levels of 2-ethyl-1-hexanol in the exhaled breath of the mothers were significantly influenced by exposure to household humidity. In the case of the infants, differences in some of the VOC levels related to home dampness exposure; however, they did not reach statistical significance. In addition, it was also found that the eosinophil counts of the mothers exposed to home dampness were significantly elevated compared to those of the non-exposed mothers. To our knowledge, these findings show, for the first time, that exposure to home dampness may influence VOC patterns in exhaled breath.
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Yang F, Sun Y, Wang P, Weschler LB, Sundell J. Spread of respiratory infections in student dormitories in China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 777:145983. [PMID: 33677292 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.145983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Student dormitory rooms in China are characterized by small space and high occupancy. This study aims to investigate infection rates for common colds and influenza among college students in a Chinese university and their association with the dormitory environment. METHODS This study involved two phases. In Phase I, 2978 students living in 998 dorm rooms in 12 buildings responded to a questionnaire survey on infections in four seasons. In Phase II, based on the data obtained from the questionnaire survey, we selected 242 dorm rooms to measure air temperature, relative humidity and CO2 concentration in both summer and winter. Ventilation rates at night were calculated based on measured CO2 concentrations. RESULTS We found that students had infections more often in winter, and in rooms with higher occupancy and dampness problems. The median value of the ventilation rate in dorm rooms in summer was 10.7 L/s per person, while it was 4.10 L/s per person in winter. There were significant associations between ventilation rate per person at night and common cold and influenza both in summer and winter (p < 0.05). A combination of dampness and low ventilation rate significantly increased the risk of common colds (adjusted odds ratios, AOR: 1.26-1.91) and influenza (AOR: 1.49-2.20). CONCLUSION College students living in a crowded dormitory room with low ventilation and dampness problems had more common colds and influenza infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feihu Yang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Built Environment and Energy Application, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, China
| | - Yuexia Sun
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Built Environment and Energy Application, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, China.
| | - Pan Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Built Environment and Energy Application, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, China
| | | | - Jan Sundell
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Built Environment and Energy Application, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, China
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Karunanayake CP, Fenton M, Skomro R, Ramsden VR, Kirychuk S, Rennie DC, Seeseequasis J, Bird C, McMullin K, Russell BP, Koehncke N, Smith-Windsor T, King M, Abonyi S, Pahwa P, Dosman JA. Sleep deprivation in two Saskatchewan First Nation communities: a public health consideration. Sleep Med X 2021; 3:100037. [PMID: 34169273 PMCID: PMC8220004 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleepx.2021.100037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Sleep deprivation is a common problem in Canada and is associated with many health problems. More than a quarter of Canadians get fewer than the recommended sleep hours (<7 h). This paper examines the prevalence and risk factors for sleep deprivation in two First Nation communities in Saskatchewan, Canada. Methods The baseline cross-sectional survey was completed between 2018 and 2019 in collaboration with the two Cree First Nation communities in Saskatchewan, Canada. There were five hundred and eighty-eight participants participated in the survey from two communities. A Multivariate logistic regression model was used for analysis. Results The prevalence of sleep deprivation (<7 h of sleep) was 25.4%. The multivariate logistics regression revealed that middle and older age groups, visible mold in the house, and being male with nighttime insomnia symptoms were significantly associated with a higher risk of sleep deprivation among study participants in the study. Conclusions In these two First Nation communities, a higher proportion of the participants reported having sleep deprivation. This was a unique study, which evolved from ongoing research collaboration with two First Nation communities in Saskatchewan, Canada. Findings will be helpful in the management of patients with sleep deprivation in these communities; as well as for co-creating policy with the communities and future research priorities. The prevalence sleep deprivation was about 25% in these two First Nation communities. Association between sleep deprivation and males with nighttime insomnia observed. Another important finding was association between visible mold and sleep deprivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandima P Karunanayake
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | - Mark Fenton
- Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Royal University Hospital, 103 Hospital Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8, Canada
| | - Robert Skomro
- Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Royal University Hospital, 103 Hospital Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8, Canada
| | - Vivian R Ramsden
- Department of Academic Family Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, West Winds Primary Health Centre, 3311 Fairlight Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7M 3Y5, Canada
| | - Shelley Kirychuk
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z4, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Royal University Hospital, 103 Hospital Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8, Canada
| | - Donna C Rennie
- College of Nursing, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | | | - Clifford Bird
- Community B, PO Box 250, Montreal Lake, SK S0J 1Y0, Canada
| | - Kathleen McMullin
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | - Brooke P Russell
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z4, Canada
| | - Niels Koehncke
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z4, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Royal University Hospital, 103 Hospital Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8, Canada
| | | | - Malcolm King
- Department of Community Health & Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Sylvia Abonyi
- Department of Community Health & Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Punam Pahwa
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z4, Canada.,Department of Community Health & Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - James A Dosman
- Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, 104 Clinic Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z4, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Royal University Hospital, 103 Hospital Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8, Canada
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Lu C, Norbäck D, Zhang Y, Li B, Zhao Z, Huang C, Zhang X, Qian H, Wang J, Liu W, Yang X, Sun Y, Sundell J, Deng Q. Common cold among young adults in China without a history of asthma or allergic rhinitis - associations with warmer climate zone, dampness and mould at home, and outdoor PM 10 and PM 2.5. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 749:141580. [PMID: 32841860 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
This paper studied associations between reported common cold and home dampness and mould, cleaning habits and ventilation, climate and outdoor air pollution in China among young adults without asthma or allergic rhinitis. Parents of children attending day care in eight Chinese cities answered a questionnaire on their health and home environment (75% response rate). We restricted the population to subject without asthma or allergic rhinitis (N = 37,275). Temperature and air pollution data was obtained from monitoring stations. Associations were estimated by multilevel logistic regression. Totally 12.5% reported common cold (≥3 colds) and 1.6% frequent common cold (≥5 colds) in the past 12 months. Female gender (OR = 1.53; 95% CI 1.37-1.71), residents in southern China (OR = 1.89; 95% CI 1.16-3.07) and living in homes with water leakage (OR = 1.32; 95% CI 1.16-1.50), mould odour (OR = 1.48; 95% CI 1.28-1.72), indoor mould (OR = 1.47; 95% CI 1.28-1.70), condensation on window panes (OR = 1.42; 95% CI 1.32-1.52) and damp bed clothing (OR = 1.19; 95% CI 1.11-1.28) were associated with common cold. Having many signs of dampness increased ORs. Daily cleaning (OR = 0.91; 95% CI 0.85-0.97) and mechanical ventilation in kitchen or bathroom (OR = 0.75; 95% CI 0.64-0.89) were protective. Higher mean ambient temperature (OR = 1.11 per °C; 95% CI 1.02-1.21), PM10 (OR = 1.17 per 10 μg/m3; 95% CI 1.14-1.21) and PM2.5 (OR = 1.28 per 10 μg/m3; 95% CI 1.20-1.37) were associated with common cold. The association with particulate air pollution was stronger in southern China. Similar associations were found for frequent common cold. In conclusion, indoor dampness and mould, a warmer climate and PM10 and PM2.5 can be associated with reported common cold. Further intervention and prospective studies are needed to verify causality of observed association in this cross-sectional study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan Lu
- XiangYa School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Dan Norbäck
- XiangYa School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; School of Energy Science and Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Yinping Zhang
- School of Architecture, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Baizhan Li
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhuohui Zhao
- Department of Environmental Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Huang
- Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering, School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Research Center for Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Hua Qian
- School of Energy & Environment, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Wei Liu
- School of Architecture, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Yang
- College of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuexia Sun
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jan Sundell
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qihong Deng
- XiangYa School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; School of Energy Science and Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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Heidari H, Mohammadbeigi A, Soltanzadeh A, Darabi M, Asadi-Ghalhari M. Respiratory effects of occupational exposure to low concentration of hydrochloric acid among exposed workers: a case study in steel industry. Med Gas Res 2020; 9:208-212. [PMID: 31898605 PMCID: PMC7802423 DOI: 10.4103/2045-9912.273958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Occupational exposure to hydrochloric acid in pickling of steel for remove rust or iron oxide scale from iron processing occurs at low concentration. This study aimed to investigate the respiratory symptoms and pulmonary dysfunction caused by exposure to low concentration of hydrochloric acid in acid washing unit in one of the steel industries. A case control study was carried out in the acid washing unit of the cold rolling of the steel industry in 2017. The exposed group included 45 male workers, and another 41 unexposed employees from official employees were enrolled as control group. A questionnaire was used to collect personal and occupational data and pulmonary function tests, including forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in the first second and peak expiratory flow rate followed guidelines given by the American Thoracic Society and measured with a portable calibrated vitalograph spirometer. For determination of acid concentration, 21 breathing zone air samples were collected in accordance with Method 7903 NIOSH. The findings showed that nose sensitivity, throat irritation and shortness of breath were the highest prevalence symptoms among exposed persons (30.4% to 32.6%). Also, the results showed that FVC and forced expiratory volume in the first second had highest and direct or positive correlation with height (0.965 and 0.927, respectively). Age and weight put in the next priorities (P < 0.01). On the other hand, based on the results of multivariate linear regression, exposing to the acid and job history are two main predictor factors for FVC. So that, the exposing to acid, by itself can reduce FVC as 4.386 units. This value is equal to 1.117 for the job history. Exposure to low concentrations of hydrochloric acid alone could increase the risk of respiratory tract damage and pulmonary function disorders. But the extent to which it can cause respiratory complications for occupational exposure is still unknown and requires further study. This study was approved by Ethical Committee of Qom University of Medical Sciences (approval No. IR.MUQ.REC.1397.118) on November 6, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamidreza Heidari
- Research Center for Environmental Pollutants, Faculty of Health, Qom University of Medical Science, Qom, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Mohammadbeigi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Faculty of Health, Qom University of Medical Science, Qom, Iran
| | - Ahmad Soltanzadeh
- Research Center for Environmental Pollutants, Faculty of Health, Qom University of Medical Science, Qom, Iran
| | - Mohadese Darabi
- Research Student Committee, School of Health, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Mahdi Asadi-Ghalhari
- Research Center for Environmental Pollutants, Faculty of Health, Qom University of Medical Science, Qom, Iran
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Wang J, Janson C, Lindberg E, Holm M, Gislason T, Benediktsdóttir B, Johannessen A, Schlünssen V, Jogi R, Franklin KA, Norbäck D. Dampness and mold at home and at work and onset of insomnia symptoms, snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 139:105691. [PMID: 32272294 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
AIM To investigate whether exposure to dampness and mold at home and at work induce sleep disturbances and daytime sleepiness among adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS Associations between onset of sleep disturbances and dampness, mold and mold odor at home and at work were investigated in a cohort of 11,318 adults from the population in Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Estonia. The participants answered a questionnaire at baseline and 10 years later, with questions on sleep disturbances, including difficulty initiating sleep (DIS), difficulty maintaining sleep (DMS), early morning awakening (EMA), insomnia symptoms, snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS). Multiple logistic regression models were applied to estimate associations adjusting for potential confounders including gender, age, smoking habit at baseline, change of smoking habit from baseline to follow up, BMI at baseline, change of BMI from baseline to follow up, education level at follow up, allergic rhinitis at baseline, doctor diagnosed asthma at baseline and chronic bronchitis at baseline. RESULTS Baseline floor dampness, visible mold and mold odor at home increased onset of DIS, DMS, EMA, insomnia symptoms and snoring during follow up (OR 1.29-1.87). Any sign of dampness at baseline increased onset of DIS (OR 1.28, 95%CI 1.06-1.55), DMS (OR 1.17, 95%CI 1.02-1.34) and insomnia symptoms (OR 1.18, 95%CI 1.03-1.36). Dampness at home during follow up increased onset of DIS, DMS, EMA, insomnia symptoms and EDS (OR 1.17-1.36). Dampness at work during follow up increased onset of DIS, EMA, insomnia symptoms and EDS (OR 1.16-1.34). Combined dampness at home and at work during follow up increased the risk of onset of DIS, DMS, EMA, insomnia symptoms and EDS (OR 1.29-1.74). CONCLUSIONS Dampness and mold at home and at work can increase the development of insomnia symptoms, snoring and EDS among adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Wang
- Department of Medical Sciences, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Christer Janson
- Department of Medical Sciences, Respiratory-, Allergy- and Sleep Research, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Eva Lindberg
- Department of Medical Sciences, Respiratory-, Allergy- and Sleep Research, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mathias Holm
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Thorarinn Gislason
- Department of Sleep, Landspitali University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Bryndís Benediktsdóttir
- Department of Sleep, Landspitali University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Ane Johannessen
- Centre for International Health, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway; Department of Occupational Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Vivi Schlünssen
- Department of Public Health, Environment, Occupation and Health, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Rain Jogi
- Lung Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Karl A Franklin
- Department of Surgical and Preoperative Sciences, Surgery, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Dan Norbäck
- Department of Medical Sciences, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Microbial Agents in the Indoor Environment: Associations with Health. CURRENT TOPICS IN ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND PREVENTIVE MEDICINE 2020. [PMCID: PMC7122805 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-32-9182-9_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
There is international consensus that damp buildings and indoor mould can increase the risk of asthma, rhinitis, bronchitis and respiratory tract infections but we do not know which types of microbial agents that are causing the observed adverse health effects. Microbial indoor exposure is a broader concept than microbial growth in buildings. Other sources of indoor microbial exposure include the outdoor environment, humans (crowdedness) and furry pet keeping. Microbial exposure can have different health effects depending on the dose, different exposure route, genetic disposition and the timing of exposure. Microbial stimulation linked to large microbial diversity in early life can protect against disease development, especially for allergic asthma and atopy. Protective effects are more often reported for bacterial exposure and adverse health effects are more often linked to mould exposure. There are many studies on health associations for indoor exposure to endotoxin, mainly from homes. The risk of getting atopic asthma may be less if you are exposed to endotoxin in childhood but the risk of non-atopic asthma may increase if exposed to endotoxin especially in adulthood. Moreover, genetic disposition modifies health effects of endotoxin. Epidemiological studies on muramic acid (from gram-positive bacteria) or ergosterol (from mould) are few. Studies on health effects of indoor exposure to beta-1-3-glucan (from mould) have conflicting results (positive as well as negative associations). Epidemiological studies on health effects of indoor exposure to mycotoxins are very few. Some studies have reported health associations for MVOC, but it is unclear to what extent MVOC has microbial sources in indoor environments. Many studies have reported health associations for fungal DNA, especially as a risk factor for childhood asthma at home. Since most studies on health effects of indoor exposure to mould, bacteria and microbial agents are cross-sectional, it is difficult to draw conclusions on causality. More prospective studies on indoor microbial exposure are needed and studies should include other indoor environments than homes, such as day care centers, schools, hospitals and offices.
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Wang J, Pindus M, Janson C, Sigsgaard T, Kim JL, Holm M, Sommar J, Orru H, Gislason T, Johannessen A, Bertelsen RJ, Norbäck D. Dampness, mould, onset and remission of adult respiratory symptoms, asthma and rhinitis. Eur Respir J 2019; 53:13993003.01921-2018. [PMID: 30880288 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.01921-2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is dampness and indoor mould associated with onset and remission of respiratory symptoms, asthma and rhinitis among adults? MATERIALS AND METHODS Associations between dampness, mould and mould odour at home and at work and respiratory health were investigated in a cohort of 11 506 adults from Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Estonia. They answered a questionnaire at baseline and 10 years later, with questions on respiratory health, home and work environment. RESULTS Baseline water damage, floor dampness, mould and mould odour at home were associated with onset of respiratory symptoms and asthma (OR 1.23-2.24). Dampness at home during follow-up was associated with onset of respiratory symptoms, asthma and rhinitis (OR 1.21-1.52). Dampness at work during follow-up was associated with onset of respiratory symptoms, asthma and rhinitis (OR 1.31-1.50). Combined dampness at home and at work increased the risk of onset of respiratory symptoms and rhinitis. Dampness and mould at home and at work decreased remission of respiratory symptoms and rhinitis. THE ANSWER TO THE QUESTION Dampness and mould at home and at work can increase onset of respiratory symptoms, asthma and rhinitis, and decrease remission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Wang
- Dept of Medical Sciences, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Mihkel Pindus
- Institute of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia.,These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Christer Janson
- Dept of Medical Sciences, Respiratory, Allergy and Sleep Research, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Torben Sigsgaard
- Dept of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Aarhus University, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jeong-Lim Kim
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Mathias Holm
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Johan Sommar
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Dept of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Hans Orru
- Institute of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia.,Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Dept of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Ane Johannessen
- Centre for International Health, Dept of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Dept of Occupational Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Randi J Bertelsen
- Centre for International Health, Dept of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Dept of Occupational Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway.,Dept of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Dan Norbäck
- Dept of Medical Sciences, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Wakayama T, Ito Y, Sakai K, Miyake M, Shibata E, Ohno H, Kamijima M. Comprehensive review of 2-ethyl-1-hexanol as an indoor air pollutant. J Occup Health 2019; 61:19-35. [PMID: 30698348 PMCID: PMC6499367 DOI: 10.1002/1348-9585.12017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives 2‐Ethyl‐1‐hexanol (2EH), a fragrance ingredient and a raw material for the production of plasticizer di(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate, is responsible for sick building syndrome (SBS). This review aims to clarify the 2EH characteristics as an indoor air pollutant such as indoor air concentration, emission mechanism, toxicity, and clinical effects. Methods Scientific publications in English that has been made available on PubMed as of June 2018 and ad hoc publications in regional languages were reviewed. Results Inhalation exposure to 2EH caused mucous membrane irritation in the eyes, nose, and throat in experimental animals. Studies in human volunteers revealed an increase in olfactory irritation and eye discomfort. There has been increasing evidence of 2EH being present in indoor air in buildings. The primary sources of 2EH emissions are not building materials themselves, but instead the hydrolysis of plasticizers and flooring adhesives. In particular, compounds like di(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate present in polyvinyl chloride flooring materials are hydrolyzed upon contact with alkaline moisture‐containing concrete floors. That being said, it may be observed that indoor concentrations of 2EH increased every year during summer. Conclusions Unlike other volatile organic compounds that cause SBS, 2EH can be retained in indoor air for long durations, increasing the likelihood of causing undesirable health effects in building occupants exposed to it. As a precautionary measure, it is important to use flooring materials that do not emit 2EH by hydrolysis, or to dry concrete before covering with flooring materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takanari Wakayama
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan.,Department of Environmental Health, Nagoya City Public Health Research Institute, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yuki Ito
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Sakai
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan.,Department of Environmental Health, Nagoya City Public Health Research Institute, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Mio Miyake
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Eiji Shibata
- Department of Health and Psychosocial Medicine, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine, Nagakute, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Ohno
- Department of Environmental Health, Nagoya City Public Health Research Institute, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Michihiro Kamijima
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
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11
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Norbäck D, Lu C, Zhang Y, Li B, Zhao Z, Huang C, Zhang X, Qian H, Sundell J, Deng Q. Common cold among pre-school children in China - associations with ambient PM 10 and dampness, mould, cats, dogs, rats and cockroaches in the home environment. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2017; 103:13-22. [PMID: 28351766 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2017.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Revised: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is some evidence that dampness, mould and cockroaches can increase the risk of respiratory infections in children but few studies exist from China on this topic. Aim To study associations between domestic early life exposure to biological indoor factors (dampness, mould, cats, dogs, rats, cockroaches), cleaning habits and common cold among pre-school children across China. METHODS Children aged 3-6years (n=39,782) were recruited from randomly selected day care centres in seven cities in China. Data on common cold and prenatal and postnatal exposure to dampness, mould, windowpane condensation in wintertime (WPC), cats, dogs, cockroaches and rats were assessed by a parentally administered questionnaire. Data on annual ambient temperature and PM10 was assessed on city level. Associations between high frequency (>5 colds per year) and long duration (≥2weeks) of common colds in the past year and exposure were calculated by multilevel logistic regression. RESULTS A total of 9.2% had a high frequency and 11.9% had long duration of common cold. Exposure to mould (OR=1.38, 95% CI 1.24-1.53) and WPC (OR 1.23, 95%CI 1.13-1.33) at birth was associated with frequent common cold. Exposure to dogs at birth was associated with long duration of common cold. (OR=1.22, 95% CI 1.06-1.41). Exposure to mould (OR=1.36, 95% CI 1.22-1.54), WPC (OR=1.27, 95%CI 1.17-1.39) and water leakage (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.20-1.49) in the current home was associated with frequent common cold. Presence of cockroaches were positively (OR=1.12, 95% CI 1.02-1.24) and presence of rats (OR=0.86, 95% CI 0.77-0.96) negatively associated with high frequency of common cold. Daily cleaning was negatively associated with frequent common cold (OR=0.89, 95% CI 0.81-0.97). Similar associations for mould, WPC, cockroaches and rats were found for long duration. Ambient PM10 (OR=1.21, 95% CI 1.21-1.35 per 10μg/m3) and temperature (OR=1.13, 95% CI 1.06-1.35 °C) on city level were associated with high frequency of common cold. Associations between cat keeping and high frequency of common cold were found only in southern China. Associations with cockroaches were stronger in northern China. Associations with dampness and mould were the same in the north and south. CONCLUSIONS Indoor mould, water damage, windowpane condensation, cockroaches and keeping cats or dogs as pets can be risk factors for common cold while daily cleaning can be protective factor. PM10 and a warmer climate zone can be other risk factors for common cold.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Norbäck
- School of Energy Science and Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Chan Lu
- School of Energy Science and Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yinping Zhang
- School of Architecture, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Baizhan Li
- Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhuohui Zhao
- Department of Environmental Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Huang
- School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Research Center for Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Hua Qian
- School of Energy & Environment, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jan Sundell
- School of Energy Science and Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; School of Architecture, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Qihong Deng
- School of Energy Science and Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; XiangYa School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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12
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Norbäck D, Hashim JH, Hashim Z, Sooria V, Ismail SA, Wieslander G. Ocular symptoms and tear film break up time (BUT) among junior high school students in Penang, Malaysia - Associations with fungal DNA in school dust. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2017; 220:697-703. [PMID: 28254266 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2017.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Revised: 01/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are few studies on ocular effects of indoor mould exposure in schools, especially in the tropics OBJECTIVE: To study associations between eye symptoms and tear film break up time (BUT) in students and demographic data and fungal DNA in schools. METHODS A school environment study was performed among randomly selected students in eight randomly selected secondary schools in Penang, Malaysia. Information on eye symptoms and demographic data was collected by a standardised questionnaire. BUT was measured by two methods, self-reported BUT (SBUT) and by the non-invasive Tearscope (NIBUT). Dust was collected by vacuuming in 32 classrooms and analysed for five fungal DNA sequences. Geometric mean (GM) for total fungal DNA was 7.31*104 target copies per gram dust and for Aspergillus/Penicillium DNA 3.34*104 target copies per gram dust. Linear mixed models and 3-level multiple logistic regression were applied adjusting for demographic factors. RESULTS A total of 368 students (58%) participated and 17.4% reported weekly eye symptoms the last 3 months. The median SBUT and TBUT were 15 and 12s, respectively. Students wearing glasses (OR 2.41, p=0.01) and with a history of atopy (OR=2.67; p=0.008) had more eye symptoms. Girls had less eye symptoms than boys (OR=0.34; p=0.006) Indoor carbon dioxide in the classrooms was low (range 380-720ppm), temperature was 25-30°C and relative air humidity 70-88%. Total fungal DNA in vacuumed dust was associated with shorter SBUT (4s shorter per 105 target copies per gram dust; p=0.04) and NIBUT (4s shorter per 105 target copies per gram dust; p<0.001). Aspergillus/Penicillium DNA was associated with shorter NIBUT (5s shorter per 105 target copies per gram dust; p=0.01). CONCLUSION Fungal contamination in schools in a tropical country can be a risk factor for impaired tear film stability among students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Norbäck
- Uppsala University, Department of Medical Science, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital, 75185 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Jamal Hisham Hashim
- United Nations University-International Institute for Global Health, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Department of Community Health, National University of Malaysia, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Zailina Hashim
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Vinoshini Sooria
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Syazwan Aizat Ismail
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia; Environmental Health, Allied Health Science College Sg Buloh, Ministry of Health Malaysia, 47000 Sungai Buloh; Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Gunilla Wieslander
- Uppsala University, Department of Medical Science, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital, 75185 Uppsala, Sweden
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Wåhlén K, Fornander L, Olausson P, Ydreborg K, Flodin U, Graff P, Lindahl M, Ghafouri B. Protein profiles of nasal lavage fluid from individuals with work-related upper airway symptoms associated with moldy and damp buildings. INDOOR AIR 2016; 26:743-754. [PMID: 26451694 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/03/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Upper airway irritation is common among individuals working in moldy and damp buildings. The aim of this study was to investigate effects on the protein composition of the nasal lining fluid. The prevalence of symptoms in relation to work environment was examined in 37 individuals working in two damp buildings. Microbial growth was confirmed in one of the buildings. Nasal lavage fluid was collected from 29 of the exposed subjects and 13 controls, not working in a damp building. Protein profiles were investigated with a proteomic approach and evaluated by multivariate statistical models. Subjects from both workplaces reported upper airway and ocular symptoms. Based on protein profiles, symptomatic subjects in the two workplaces were discriminated from each other and separated from healthy controls. The groups differed in proteins involved in inflammation and host defense. Measurements of innate immunity proteins showed a significant increase in protein S100-A8 and decrease in SPLUNC1 in subjects from one workplace, while alpha-1-antitrypsin was elevated in subjects from the other workplace, compared with healthy controls. The results show that protein profiles in nasal lavage fluid can be used to monitor airway mucosal effects in personnel working in damp buildings and indicate that the profile may be separated when the dampness is associated with the presence of molds.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Wåhlén
- Division of Community Medicine, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Linköping University, Pain and Rehabilitation Center, Anaesthetics, Operations and Speciality Surgery Center, Region Östergötland, Linkoping, Sweden
| | - L Fornander
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Div of Neuro and Inflammation Science, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - P Olausson
- Division of Community Medicine, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Linköping University, Pain and Rehabilitation Center, Anaesthetics, Operations and Speciality Surgery Center, Region Östergötland, Linkoping, Sweden
| | - K Ydreborg
- Clinic of Otorhinolaryngology, County Hospital Ryhov, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - U Flodin
- Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Occupational and Environmental Medicine Center, Heart and Medicine Center, Region Östergötland, Linkoping, Sweden
| | - P Graff
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - M Lindahl
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Div of Neuro and Inflammation Science, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - B Ghafouri
- Division of Community Medicine, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Linköping University, Pain and Rehabilitation Center, Anaesthetics, Operations and Speciality Surgery Center, Region Östergötland, Linkoping, Sweden.
- Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Occupational and Environmental Medicine Center, Heart and Medicine Center, Region Östergötland, Linkoping, Sweden.
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Choi H, Schmidbauer N, Bornehag CG. Non-microbial sources of microbial volatile organic compounds. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2016; 148:127-136. [PMID: 27043176 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2016.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2015] [Revised: 02/05/2016] [Accepted: 03/20/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The question regarding the true sources of the purported microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) remains unanswered. OBJECTIVE To identify microbial, as well as non-microbial sources of 28 compounds, which are commonly accepted as microbial VOCs (i.e. primary outcome of interest is Σ 28 VOCs). METHODS In a cross-sectional investigation of 390 homes, six building inspectors assessed water/mold damage, took air and dust samples, and measured environmental conditions (i.e., absolute humidity (AH, g/m(3)), temperature (°C), ventilation rate (ACH)). The air sample was analyzed for volatile organic compounds (μg/m(3)) and; dust samples were analyzed for total viable fungal concentration (CFU/g) and six phthalates (mg/g dust). Four benchmark variables of the underlying sources were defined as highest quartile categories of: 1) the total concentration of 17 propylene glycol and propylene glycol ethers (Σ17 PGEs) in the air sample; 2) 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol monoisobutyrate (TMPD-MIB) in the air sample; 3) semi-quantitative mold index; and 4) total fungal load (CFU/g). RESULTS Within severely damp homes, co-occurrence of the highest quartile concentration of either Σ17 PGEs or TMPD-MIB were respectively associated with a significantly higher median concentration of Σ 28 VOCs (8.05 and 13.38μg/m(3), respectively) compared to the reference homes (4.30 and 4.86μg/m(3), respectively, both Ps ≤0.002). Furthermore, the homes within the highest quartile range for Σ fungal load as well as AH were associated with a significantly increased median Σ 28 VOCs compared to the reference group (8.74 vs. 4.32μg/m(3), P=0.001). Within the final model of multiple indoor sources on Σ 28 VOCs, one natural log-unit increase in summed concentration of Σ17 PGEs, plus TMPD-MIB (Σ 17 PGEs + TMPD-MIB) was associated with 1.8-times (95% CI, 1.3-2.5), greater likelihood of having a highest quartile of Σ 28 VOCs, after adjusting for absolute humidity, history of repainting at least one room, ventilation rate, and mold index (P-value =0.001). Homes deemed severely mold damaged (i.e., mold index =1) were associated with 1.7-times (95% CI, 0.8-3.6), greater likelihood of having a highest quartile of Σ 28 VOCs, even though such likelihood was not significant (P-value =0.164). In addition, absolute humidity appeared to positively interact with mold index to significantly elevate the prevalence of the highest quartile category of Σ 28 VOCs. CONCLUSION The indoor concentration of Σ 28 VOCs, which are widely accepted as MVOCs, are significantly associated with the markers of synthetic (i.e. Σ17 PGEs and TMPD-MIB), and to less extent, microbial (i.e., mold index) sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunok Choi
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, School of Public Health, State University of New York, United States.
| | - Norbert Schmidbauer
- Norwegian Institute for Air Research, PO Box 100, 2027 Kjeller, Norway, Instituttveien 18, 2007 Kjeller, Norway.
| | - Carl-Gustaf Bornehag
- Technical Research Institute of Sweden, Box 857, SE-501 15 Borås, Sweden; Department of Public Health Sciences, Karlstad University, SE-651 88 Karlstad, Sweden.
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15
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Miyake M, Ito Y, Sawada M, Sakai K, Suzuki H, Sakamoto T, Sawamoto K, Kamijima M. Subchronic inhalation exposure to 2-ethyl-1-hexanol impairs the mouse olfactory bulb via injury and subsequent repair of the nasal olfactory epithelium. Arch Toxicol 2016; 90:1949-58. [PMID: 27055686 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-016-1699-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The olfactory system can be a toxicological target of volatile organic compounds present in indoor air. Recently, 2-ethyl-1-hexanol (2E1H) emitted from adhesives and carpeting materials has been postulated to cause "sick building syndrome." Patients' symptoms are associated with an increased sense of smell. This investigation aimed to characterize the histopathological changes of the olfactory epithelium (OE) of the nasal cavity and the olfactory bulb (OB) in the brain, due to subchronic exposure to 2E1H. Male ICR mice were exposed to 0, 20, 60, or 150 ppm 2E1H for 8 h every day for 1 week, or 5 days per week for 1 or 3 months. After a 1-week exposure, the OE showed inflammation and degeneration, with a significant concentration-dependent reduction in the staining of olfactory receptor neurons and in the numbers of globose basal cells at ≥20 ppm. Regeneration occurred at 1 month along with an increase in the basal cells, but lymphocytic infiltration, expanded Bowman's glands, and a decrease in the olfactory receptor neurons were observed at 3 months. Intriguingly, the OB at 3 months showed a reduction in the diameters of the glomeruli and in the number of olfactory nerves and tyrosine hydroxylase-positive neurons, but an increased number of ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1-positive microglia in glomeruli. Accordingly, 2E1H inhalation induced degeneration of the OE with the lowest-observed-adverse-effect level of 20 ppm. The altered number of functional cell components in the OB suggests that effects on olfactory sensation persist after subchronic exposure to 2E1H.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mio Miyake
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1 Kawasumi, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, 467-8601, Japan
| | - Yuki Ito
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1 Kawasumi, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, 467-8601, Japan.
| | - Masato Sawada
- Department of Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, 467-8601, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Sakai
- Nagoya City Public Health Research Institute, Nagoya, 467-8615, Japan
| | - Himiko Suzuki
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1 Kawasumi, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, 467-8601, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Sakamoto
- Chukyo University School of Health and Sport Science, Toyota, 470-0393, Japan
| | - Kazunobu Sawamoto
- Department of Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, 467-8601, Japan
| | - Michihiro Kamijima
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1 Kawasumi, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, 467-8601, Japan.
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Takaoka M, Suzuki K, Norbäck D. Sick Building Syndrome Among Junior High School Students in Japan in Relation to the Home and School Environment. Glob J Health Sci 2015; 8:165-77. [PMID: 26383200 PMCID: PMC4803974 DOI: 10.5539/gjhs.v8n2p165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2015] [Accepted: 03/31/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: There is an increasing concern about sick building syndrome (SBS), especially in Asia. The aim of this study is to investigate associations between SBS and the home, school environment and personal factors among Japanese junior high school students. Methods: We investigated students in four junior high schools in Hyogo in Kansai area, Japan. A questionnaire study was performed among students (n=1056), 12-15 years old. Temperature and relative air humidity was measured in the classrooms and dust was collected from the classroom floors and air and was analysed for cat and dog allergens. Associations were analysed by multi-level logistic regression. Results: Mucosal symptoms (45.4%), general symptoms (38.9%) and skin symptoms (22.6%) were common. Totally 8.8% reported cat allergy, 6.1% dog allergy, 6.0% mold allergy and 25.7% pollen allergy. Atopy, window pane condensation, floor dampness and odor at home and high relative air humidity in the classrooms were associated with SBS. Conclusion: The prevalence of SBS symptoms was high and associated with both home and school environment. Window pane condensation and floor dampness at home can increase the risk for SBS symptoms in students. Moreover high relative air humidity at school may increase the risk for SBS.
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Norbäck D, Cai G. Dampness, indoor mould, fungal DNA and respiratory health - molecular methods in indoor epidemiology. Clin Exp Allergy 2015; 45:840-843. [PMID: 25881855 PMCID: PMC7162140 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- D. Norbäck
- Department of Medical Science, Occupational and Environmental MedicineUppsala University and Uppsala University HospitalUppsalaSweden
| | - G.‐H. Cai
- Department of Medical Science, Occupational and Environmental MedicineUppsala University and Uppsala University HospitalUppsalaSweden
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Observations of TCRVβ Gene Expression in Rats with Dampness Syndrome. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2014; 2014:373608. [PMID: 24976850 PMCID: PMC4052564 DOI: 10.1155/2014/373608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2014] [Accepted: 05/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Environmental dampness is one factor which can cause human diseases. The effects of exposure to humidity on human immune function are diverse and numerous. In the theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), dampness is defined as one of the major pathogenic factors in the human body. It is divided into “external dampness” and “internal dampness.” However the molecular mechanism leading to humidity-induced immunosuppression is obscure. In the present study, we investigated the expression of the T-cell antigen receptor variable β (TCRVβ) subfamilies in rats which were fed in different humid environment. And the expression levels of the TCRVβ subfamilies were detected using FQ-PCR. We found that the dampness might reduce the immunological recognition function of rats. And the obstruction of the immunological recognition function might be caused by internal dampness rather than external dampness.
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Yang Z, Xiang T, Zhang S, Zhan H, Chen Z, Sun B, Chen X, Shi J, Ren B. Effect of polypeptide 2B1 on condition of dampness pattern in rats in terms of traditional Chinese medicine. J TRADIT CHIN MED 2014; 34:214-20. [PMID: 24783936 DOI: 10.1016/s0254-6272(14)60081-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study investigated how polypeptide 2B1 is involved in regulating and governing dampness in rat models with dampness pattern defined in terms of Traditional Chinese Medicine. METHODS We randomly divided 48 SPF 10-week-old male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats into a normal group, normal + Aristolochic acid I (AA-I) for 5 min group, normal + AA-I for 60 min group, dampness pattern group (DS-Group), dampness pattern + AA-I for 5 min group, and dampness pattern + AA-I for 60 min group. Groups were then treated accordingly. We took out the lung, stomach, liver, spleen, kidney, large intestine, and small intestine tissues to detect gene and protein expression of organic anion transporter polypeptide 2B1 (OATP2B1). RESULTS Gene expression of OATP2B1 in spleen, kidney, and small intestine of rats with dampness pattern was lower than that in normal rats (P < 0.05). The gene expressions of OATP2B1 in liver, stomach, large intestine, and small intestine were lower than that in control rats at different time points after being stimulated by AA-I (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION There is coordination among multiple viscera in handling the condition of dampness, and the mechanism underlying the action may rely on regulating the expression of OATP2B1.
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Chen X, Lin Y, Zhang S, Chen Z, Hardi CF, Xiang T, Sun B. Correlation between pathogenesis of dampness syndrome and interleukin-2, interleukin-8 in rats. J TRADIT CHIN MED 2013; 33:114-8. [PMID: 23596823 DOI: 10.1016/s0254-6272(13)60111-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the pathogenesis of dampness syndrome by detecting the changes of interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) levels. METHODS Female Sprague Dawley rats were divided randomly into five groups according to the random number table: a normal group (Group I), an external dampness group (Group II), an internal dampness group (Group III), and an external and internal dampness group (Group IV). Twenty days after the model made, IL-2 and IL-8 levels were detected by radioimmunoassay method. RESULTS The IL-2 and IL-8 levels among groups were significant (F = 3.102, P < 0.05; F = 2.657, P < 0.05, respectively). The level of IL-2 in Group II and Group III were higher than that in Group I (P < 0.05, P < 0.01, respectively), especially higher in the Group III compared with Group II (P < 0.05). The level of IL-8 in Group III were higher than those in Group I, Group II and Group IV (P < 0.05, P < 0.01, P < 0.05, respectively). In the Group III, the 24-hour water and body weight were higher than that in the Group IV (all P < 0.05), and spontaneous movement frequency was higher than those in Group II and Group IV (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Immune activation and inflammatory reaction might be easily caused by external dampness other than internal dampness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolin Chen
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen Universty, Guangzhou 510080, China
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Araki A, Tsuboi T, Kawai T, Bamai YA, Takeda T, Yoshioka E, Kishi R. Validation of diffusive mini-samplers for aldehyde and VOC and its feasibility for measuring the exposure levels of elementary school children. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 14:368-74. [PMID: 21986583 DOI: 10.1039/c1em10624d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to various chemicals can cause adverse effects to health, such as asthma and allergies, especially in children. Data on personal exposure levels in children are scarce, thus small lightweight diffusive mini-samplers for aldehydes and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were designed to measure the exposure level of children to these chemicals. The aim of the study was to validate and examine the applicability of these mini-samplers for measuring daily chemical exposure. The diffusive mini-samplers are 20 mm in length, 11 mm in diameter, and 1.67 g in weight. The devices are cylindrically shaped with polytetrafluoroethylene membrane filters placed at each end. To measure aldehydes and acetone, 20 mg of 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine was used as an absorbent. To measure VOCs, a carbon molecular sieve was used. The sampling rate for each chemical was determined by parallel sampling with active samplers in a closed exposure bag. The blank levels of the chemicals and the storage stability of the device were tested. The mini-samplers were compared to commercially available diffusive samplers. To examine the applicability of the samplers, 65 elementary school children carried them for 24 h. The sampling rates for formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acetone were 20.9, 22.9, and 19.7 mL min(-1), respectively. The limits of quantification (LOQ) for the 24-hour sampling by high-performance liquid chromatography/ultraviolet (HPLC/UV) analysis were 8.3, 7.6, and 8.8 μg m(-3) for formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acetone, respectively. The sampling rates for the 11 VOCs were determined and ranged from 3.3 mL min(-1) for styrene and 2-ethyl-1-hexanol to 11.7 mL min(-1) for benzene. The LOQ for the 24-hour sampling by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis ranged from 5.9-105.2 μg m(-3), 1.1-24.7 parts per billion. The storage stability after 5 days ranged from 94.8 to 118.2%. Formaldehyde, acetone, benzene, and toluene were detected above the LOQ in more than 90% of the children, and the median concentrations were 21.7, 20.9, 10.1, and 21.5 μg m(-3), respectively. This study shows that the diffusive samplers developed were suitable for children to carry and were capable of measuring the children's daily chemical exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsuko Araki
- Hokkaido University Centre for Environmental and Health Sciences, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
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