Search

Antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) may have significant impacts on human health and ecosystems. Airborne ARGs are reportedly widely distributed across inland cities, but little is known about their abundance in marine atmospheres. Here, we report observations of ambient ARGs during a cruise over the marginal seas of the Bohai Sea and Yellow Sea and compare them with ARGs in the coastal atmosphere. We characterized the ARGs in terms of their abundance, occurrence, degradation, and risk in the marine and coastal atmospheres. Using Na+ and Ca2+ as indicators of marine and continental aerosol sources, respectively, we quantified the mutual transport of airborne ARGs. Our results revealed that the airborne ARG abundances and the number of ARG types increased concomitantly with the mass concentrations of particulate matter because of the accumulation effect, but the ratios of ARG abundance/particulate matter concentration gradually decreased. The inconsistent trend suggested that the reduction in airborne ARGs was greater than their increase with bacterial reproduction during their accumulation and transport in the atmosphere. In addition, the number of ARG types in marine aerosols was greater than that in coastal aerosols. However, the airborne ARG abundance in marine aerosols was greater than that in clean coastal aerosols but not in polluted coastal aerosols. Some ARG types detected in marine aerosols were significantly and positively correlated with wind speed and relative humidity, implying that they may be derived from marine emissions, whereas the other ARGs are likely derived from long-range continental transport. Sea-derived airborne ARGs serve as important sources in coastal aerosols, but their contributions decrease with increasing air pollution levels. Our findings highlight the complex role of marine aerosols as both potential sources and reservoirs of airborne ARGs and highlight the critical importance of investigating the transport dynamics and variation mechanism during the long-range transport of ARGs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Backyard production systems (BPS) represent an interface of contact between people, domestic and wild animals. Studies conducted in Chile during the last decade have provided extensive evidence of influenza A virus (IAV) circulation in backyard poultry and swine. The aim of this study was to investigate exposure practices of humans to animal‐origin IAV within backyards. Methods and Results: Backyard farmers and household members of a total of 101 BPS in the proximity of wetlands located throughout Chile were interviewed between 2021 and 2022. Data were collected on the nature of human–animal contacts through participation in productive activities conducted within backyards, which was used to estimate participants' exposure risk to animal‐origin IAV. Additionally, RT‐qPCR and serologic IAV active surveillance was carried out in backyard animals. Multilinear regression was used to identify factors associated with exposure risk. Overall, IAV prevalence was 10.1% (95% CI: 4.7%–15.5%) and seroprevalence was 43.5% (95% CI: 29.7%–54.2%), both at the BPS level. Of 180 interviewees, 86% reported participating regularly in poultry or swine exposure activities within the backyard. A greater participation of male participants was observed when evaluating swine exposure activities, while female participation was greater for some activities related to poultry handling. Handwashing was a very extended hygiene practice; however, the use of personal protective equipment was uncommon. Different factors related to participants, households and backyards were associated with an increased exposure risk of participants to animal‐origin IAV: (i) older age, (ii) less years of education, (iii) no off‐farm work, (iv) greater backyard production value and (v) greater household consumption of backyard products. Conclusion: These results indicate the circulation of IAV in BPS and the frequent human–animal contact at this interface, highlighting the need for awareness campaigns and educational programmes aimed at backyard farmers on prevention and biosecurity measures in the management of backyard animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transmission of virus-containing droplets among multiple people in an outdoor environment is seldom evaluated. In this study, an Euler–Lagrange computational fluid dynamics approach was used to investigate the effects of evaporation and the body thermal plume on the dispersion of coughed droplets under various wind conditions, and the infection risk was evaluated for various arrangements of individuals queuing outdoors using virtual manikin models. The evaporation time was longer for larger droplets and in a more humid environment. Transient evaporation strongly affected the motion of droplets ranging in diameter from 60 to 150 μm. The body thermal plume affected airflow and particle dispersion under weak wind conditions, but its effect was negligible at wind speeds greater than 0.8 m/s. Droplets smaller than 100 μm could reach the head of a susceptible person, suggesting a high exposure risk. The exposure fraction and body deposition were highest in an all-male queue sequence and lowest for a male–female–male–female–male queue sequence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Like many traditional Chinese herbal medicines, preparations from Radix Dipsaci are at risk of contamination by harmful mycotoxins; however, there have been no reports of actual contamination. In this study, we developed an analytical method to simultaneously detect eight mycotoxins in Radix Dipsaci and estimate the exposure risk for consumers. We have developed an analytical method utilizing ultra-high performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry to accurately determine the levels of AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, AFG2, OTA, ZEN, T-2 and ST mycotoxins in 45 batches of Radix Dipsaci sourced from major medicinal herb markets across five regions in China. We also analyzed migration of mycotoxins from the raw herbs into water decoction. Based on these results and data on human consumption of the herbal medicine, we estimated risk of exposure and acceptable exposure limits to mycotoxins in the Radix Dipsaci using the “margin of exposure (MOE)” method. Of the 45 batches of Radix Dipsaci, 48.89% contained at least one of the eight mycotoxins, 24.44% contained one, 17.78% contained two and 6.67% contained three. The most frequent mycotoxins were aflatoxin B1, present in 35.56% of batches (at 0.25–34.84 μg/kg); aflatoxin G1, 15.56% (1.99–44.05 μg/kg); and ochratoxin A, 22.22% (16.11–143.38 μg/kg). These three mycotoxins transferred from the raw herb into water decoction at respective rates of 20.20%, 29.14%, and 24.80%. The 95th percentile values of the MOE risk factors for health effects of AFB1 were below 10,000 at high doses but above 10,000 at low doses of Radix Dipsaci long-term treatment. With the reduction in duration of exposure years, the MOE values of AFB1 and AFG1 gradually reverted to within the acceptable range. The mean, 50th, and 95th percentile values of the MOE risk factors for health effects of OTA exceeded 10,000 regardless of whether consumers received a low or high dose of Radix Dipsaci treatment for durations ranging from 1 to lifetime. Based on this exposure and a typical human diet, we have estimated the respective 20-year exposure limits for Radix Dipsaci to be 5.821 μg/kg, 4.035 μg/kg, and 56.073 μg/kg for the three mycotoxins under consideration. Contamination with multiple mycotoxins is frequently observed in Radix Dipsaci, and the three most prevalent contaminants have been found to leach into water decoctions, thereby posing a potential health hazard for individuals consuming this herbal preparation. This work highlights the need to monitor herbal medicines for mycotoxin contamination in order to protect consumers.

Floods are one of the natural disasters which cause the worst human, social and economic impacts to the detriment of both public and private sectors. Today, public decision-makers can take advantage of the availability of data-driven systems that allow to monitor hydrogeological risk areas and that can be used for predictive purposes to deal with future emergency situations. Flooding risk exposure maps traditionally assume amount of presences constant over time, although crowding is a highly dynamic process in metropolitan areas. Real-time monitoring and forecasting of people's presences and mobility is thus a relevant aspect for metropolitan areas subjected to flooding risk. In this respect, mobile phone network data have been used with the aim of obtaining dynamic measure for the exposure risk in areas with hydrogeological criticality. In this work, we use mobile phone origin-destination signals on traffic flows by Telecom Italia Mobile (TIM) users with the aim of forecasting the exposure risk and thus to help decision-makers in warning to who is transiting through that area. To model the complex seasonality of traffic flows data, we adopt a novel methodological strategy based on introducing in a Vector AutoRegressive with eXogenous variable (VARX) model a Dynamic Harmonic Regression (DHR) component. We apply the method to the case study of the "Mandolossa", an urbanized area subject to flooding located on the western outskirt of Brescia, using hourly-basis data from September 2020 to August 2021. A cross validation based on the hit-rate and the mean absolute percentage error measures show a good forecasting accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To understand the remediation potential of peanut plants to phthalate esters (PAEs) contamination, the absorption and accumulation patterns of dibutyl phthalate (DBP), bis (2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), and diisononyl ortho‐phthalate (DINP), as well as their metabolites—monoalkyl phthalate esters (MPEs), monobutyl phthalate (MBP), monoethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP), and monoisononyl phthalate (MINP), were examined in peanut plant during the entire growth period. It was found that the amounts of DBP and MBP in peanut plants correlated positively, when the DBP content is high, the MBP content is also high, as well as DEHP and MEHP. Additionally, the root contained the highest overall concentrations of DBP, DEHP, DINP, MBP, and MEHP over the course of the growth cycle. To evaluate PAEs contamination and dietary risk of peanuts in China, 18 PAEs and seven MPEs in 490 peanut samples collected from 17 provinces of China were detected by UPLC‐MS/MS, the detection rate of 18 selected PAE in peanut was 100%. The dietary risk assessment suggested that the general population and high consuming population are not at risk of non‐carcinogenic from the PAEs and MPEs found in peanuts of China. There is no need for the general consumption group to take any precautions against the carcinogenic risk of DEHP, and the high consumption group's carcinogenic risk is also within an acceptable range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) may have significant impacts on human health and ecosystems. Airborne ARGs are reportedly widely distributed across inland cities, but little is known about their abundance in marine atmospheres. Here, we report observations of ambient ARGs during a cruise over the marginal seas of the Bohai Sea and Yellow Sea and compare them with ARGs in the coastal atmosphere. We characterized the ARGs in terms of their abundance, occurrence, degradation, and risk in the marine and coastal atmospheres. Using Na+ and Ca2+ as indicators of marine and continental aerosol sources, respectively, we quantified the mutual transport of airborne ARGs. Our results revealed that the airborne ARG abundances and the number of ARG types increased concomitantly with the mass concentrations of particulate matter because of the accumulation effect, but the ratios of ARG abundance/particulate matter concentration gradually decreased. The inconsistent trend suggested that the reduction in airborne ARGs was greater than their increase with bacterial reproduction during their accumulation and transport in the atmosphere. In addition, the number of ARG types in marine aerosols was greater than that in coastal aerosols. However, the airborne ARG abundance in marine aerosols was greater than that in clean coastal aerosols but not in polluted coastal aerosols. Some ARG types detected in marine aerosols were significantly and positively correlated with wind speed and relative humidity, implying that they may be derived from marine emissions, whereas the other ARGs are likely derived from long-range continental transport. Sea-derived airborne ARGs serve as important sources in coastal aerosols, but their contributions decrease with increasing air pollution levels. Our findings highlight the complex role of marine aerosols as both potential sources and reservoirs of airborne ARGs and highlight the critical importance of investigating the transport dynamics and variation mechanism during the long-range transport of ARGs.

BackgroundSalt usage patterns have been associated with a risk of multiple diseases; however, their relationship with heavy metal exposure has not been extensively studied.MethodsThis study analyzed survey data from 11,574 NHANES participants. Weighted linear regression models were used to examine the relationship between the type of salt used by participants, the frequency of adding salt at the table, and the frequency of adding regular or seasoned salt to cooking or food preparation, and urinary concentrations of 10 heavy metals. Multiple sensitivity analyses were also performed.ResultsThe weighted regression analysis indicated that participants’ salt usage patterns were associated with an increased urinary excretion of certain heavy metals. Specifically, regarding the type of salt used, compared to regular salt, the use of salt substitutes was significantly positively correlated with urinary molybdenum (Mo) levels, while not using salt or substitutes at the table was significantly positively correlated with urinary levels of both Mo and arsenic (As). In terms of the frequency of adding regular salt at the table, frequent addition compared to rarely adding salt was significantly positively correlated with urinary levels of cadmium (Cd), and antimony (Sb), while showing a significant negative correlation with urinary Mo levels. Additionally, when examining the frequency of using regular salt during cooking or food preparation, those who occasionally or very often added regular salt had significantly higher urinary levels of barium (Ba), cesium (Cs), and thallium (Tl) compared to those who never added regular salt during cooking. These associations remained stable in sensitivity analyses.ConclusionOur analysis revealed that participants’ salt usage patterns are associated with increased excretion of certain heavy metals, suggesting possible increased exposures to these metals. While these findings are concerning, they require validation in other populations and should be confirmed through prospective studies designed based on this hypothesis.

Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) is a major carcinogenic compound found in milk and dairy products, posing a constant risk to consumers in the Mediterranean region. This study systematically reviewed AFM1 presence in these products in Mediterranean countries over a period of 20 years and estimated the relevant nutritional exposure for consumers. Using data from three databases, 596 articles were retrieved with 123 meeting the inclusion criteria. The frequency of AFM1 occurrence was 40% regardless of milk type, with non-cow milk showing an increasing trend. Moreover, the Estimated Daily Intake of AFM1 from milk and dairy product consumption and the associated Hazard Index were determined. Notably, Southeastern Mediterranean countries presented higher contamination levels, leading to elevated Estimated Daily Intake and Hhazard Index values. Thermally processed milk showed high contamination levels, and among dairy products, cheeses were the most contaminated. This review highlights AFM1 as a persistent hazard in the dairy sector, underscoring the need for effective interventions throughout the milk production stages.

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 in 2019 led to a global pandemic with a significant impact on healthcare systems. Healthcare workers were particularly vulnerable due to frequent contact with COVID-19 patients. Despite vaccination, they remained at higher risk as the vaccines provided limited protection against infection with viral variants, like Delta or Omicron BA.1 and BA.5. Three years after the onset of the pandemic, we evaluated SARS-CoV-2 infection frequencies among healthcare workers with varying levels of patient contact: high-risk (frequent COVID-19 patient contact), intermediate-risk (non-COVID-19 patient contact), and low-risk (no patient contact). We assessed their cellular and humoral immune responses based on their vaccination status and number of prior infections. SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies were measured by immunoglobulin ELISA, and neutralizing antibody titers were determined against the viral variants D614G, Delta, and Omicron BA.1 and BA.5. Cellular immune responses were analyzed using an interferon-γ ELISpot. Notably, three years into the pandemic, healthcare workers in daily contact with COVID-19 patients did not have higher infection rates compared to healthcare workers with non-COVID-19 patient contact or no patient contact. Immune responses were similar across all groups, highlighting the effectiveness of vaccination and current hygiene standards in preventing virus transmission from patients to staff.

Introduction: Hantavirus infection is a zoonotic disease from rodents to humans, necessitating seroprevalence assessment for disease burden clarification and control measure implementation. This study aimed to estimate global hantaviruses seroprevalence, examining variations by regions, populations or settings. Methods: A comprehensive database search identified studies on human hantaviruses seroprevalence using IgG detection until january 2024. A random-effects meta-analysis estimated pooled seroprevalence, with subgroup analyses for geographical region, population, setting or occupation. Results: Out of 3,382 abstracts reviewed, 110 studies were selected, comprising 81,815 observations and 3207 events. The global seroprevalence was calculated at 2.93% (2.34%-3.67%). In terms of geographical distribution, our analysis encompassed 61 studies from the Americas, where the seroprevalence was estimated at 2.43% (95% CI: 1.71%—3.46%), 33 studies from Europe indicating a seroprevalence of 2.98% (95% CI: 2.19%—4.06%), 10 studies from Asia revealing a seroprevalence of 6.84% (95% CI: 3.64%—12.50%), and 6 studies from Africa demonstrating a seroprevalence of 2.21% (95% CI: 1.82%—2.71%). Subgroup analysis underscored varying seroprevalence rates across different populations, settings, and occupations, highlighting the necessity for targeted interventions and preventive measures. Conclusion: The analysis reveals a moderate global hantaviruses seroprevalence, emphasizing the viral family's complex transmission dynamics influenced by exposure and geographical factors. This highlights the need for targeted prevention and control strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radon concentrations in the tourist part of the Cango cave were measured using 25 strategically placed electret ion chambers. Airflow rates were also measured and found to be less than 1 m/s throughout the cave. An IDW interpolated radon concentration overlay was constructed using QGIS and overlayed on maps of the cave. The maximum radon concentration of 2625 Bq/m3 was measured in the Grand Hall, located in the central part of the cave following a narrow passage. The initial part of the cave near the entrance exhibited normal cave breathing characteristics, with radon concentrations of less than 300 Bq/m3. The deepest section of the cave, however, demonstrated an unexpected decrease in radon levels, temperature, and humidity. The average radon concentration in the Cango cave, measured at 1265 Bq/m3, is relatively low compared to other caves worldwide that need mitigation measures according to the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) is a major carcinogenic compound found in milk and dairy products, posing a constant risk to consumers in the Mediterranean region. This study systematically reviewed AFM1 presence in these products in Mediterranean countries over a period of 20 years and estimated the relevant nutritional exposure for consumers. Using data from three databases, 596 articles were retrieved with 123 meeting the inclusion criteria. The frequency of AFM1 occurrence was 40% regardless of milk type, with non-cow milk showing an increasing trend. Moreover, the Estimated Daily Intake of AFM1 from milk and dairy product consumption and the associated Hazard Index were determined. Notably, Southeastern Mediterranean countries presented higher contamination levels, leading to elevated Estimated Daily Intake and Hhazard Index values. Thermally processed milk showed high contamination levels, and among dairy products, cheeses were the most contaminated. This review highlights AFM1 as a persistent hazard in the dairy sector, underscoring the need for effective interventions throughout the milk production stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The frequency of global floods has increased, posing significant threats to economic development and human safety. Existing flood risk zoning studies in disaster prevention lack integration of the natural–economic–social chain and urban resilience factors. This study addresses this gap by constructing flood disaster risk and intensity indices using data from 31 provinces and 295 prefectural-level cities in China from 2011 to 2022. These indices incorporate natural (rainfall), economic (GDP), and social (population, built-up area) indicators to assess the flood likelihood and loss degree, providing comprehensive risk and intensity ratings. The study also examines the impact of resilience factors—environmental (green space), infrastructural (rainwater pipeline density), and natural resource (watershed areas)—on flood intensity. Findings reveal that high-risk regions are mainly in the Yangtze River Basin and southern regions, while high-intensity regions are primarily in the middle and lower Yangtze River and certain northwestern cities. Increasing rainwater pipeline density mitigates flood impacts in high-risk, high-intensity areas, while expanding green spaces and pipelines are effective in high-risk, low-intensity regions. This paper proposes a comprehensive flood hazard zoning mechanism integrating natural, economic, and social factors with urban resilience, offering insights and a scientific basis for urban flood management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Particulate matter especially PM2.5 has always been a prime concern for human health. An Integrated Exposure–Response (IER) function and Value of Statistical Life (VSL) approach is used in the present study, for Delhi, India, to monitor the association between fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentration and premature mortality for the five diseases: ischemic heart disease (IHD), stroke (STR), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung neoplasms (LNC), and lower respiratory infections (LRI) and economic loss occurring due to them. It was found in the study that IHD (64%) has the highest risk, followed by stroke (19%), COPD (10%), LRI (4%), and LNC (3%). Significant economic loss for these diseases during the study period (on average annually) was found to be: IHD [20160.15, 95% CI:16,432.88—24,290.06], STR [6088.12, 95% CI: 4583.80- 7963.50], COPD [3176.32, 95% CI:2246.27—3818.32], LNC [881.13, 95% CI: 696.37 – 1087.61], LRI [1170.48, 95% CI:852.44—1542.76] million USD. Scenario modeling was done as part of this investigation to see if Delhi meeting India's National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) threshold (40 µg/m3) would lower premature deaths and provide economic benefits. Premature mortality has decreased for the following conditions: LRI (51.81%), LNC (47.76%), COPD (47.48%), STR (22.08%), and IHD (20.53%). Further, premature mortality can be potentially reduced, on average, by 95.66% for LRI, 90% for LNC, 88.75% for COPD, 85.40% for STR, and 62.19% for IHD for the study duration if 2005 World Health Organization (WHO) PM2.5 exposure limit (10 µg/m3) were reached. Similarly, economic benefits of 7987.39 [95% CI: 6219.57 – 9812.56] and 22,461.14 [95% CI: 17,585.92 – 27,707.95] million USD could have been reaped by maintaining NAAQS and WHO (2005 guidelines) prescribed limits. The estimated reduction in premature mortality and associated economic benefits due to decreased PM2.5 exposure calls for mitigation measures on an urgent basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 in 2019 led to a global pandemic with a significant impact on healthcare systems. Healthcare workers were particularly vulnerable due to frequent contact with COVID-19 patients. Despite vaccination, they remained at higher risk as the vaccines provided limited protection against infection with viral variants, like Delta or Omicron BA.1 and BA.5. Three years after the onset of the pandemic, we evaluated SARS-CoV-2 infection frequencies among healthcare workers with varying levels of patient contact: high-risk (frequent COVID-19 patient contact), intermediate-risk (non-COVID-19 patient contact), and low-risk (no patient contact). We assessed their cellular and humoral immune responses based on their vaccination status and number of prior infections. SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies were measured by immunoglobulin ELISA, and neutralizing antibody titers were determined against the viral variants D614G, Delta, and Omicron BA.1 and BA.5. Cellular immune responses were analyzed using an interferon-γ ELISpot. Notably, three years into the pandemic, healthcare workers in daily contact with COVID-19 patients did not have higher infection rates compared to healthcare workers with non-COVID-19 patient contact or no patient contact. Immune responses were similar across all groups, highlighting the effectiveness of vaccination and current hygiene standards in preventing virus transmission from patients to staff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgrounds and aim: Exposure to pesticides has been proposed as a potential contributor to adverse pregnancy outcomes, possibly through the induction of inflammation, oxidative stress, and disruption of endocrine functions. Nevertheless, the definitive link between prenatal pesticide exposure and the risk of Spontaneous Abortion (SAB) remains uncertain. The objective of this systematic review is to explore and analyze the existing evidence regarding the link between pesticide exposure and the risk of SAB. Methods: A comprehensive systematic literature search was carried out on PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus from their inception until February 2024 to identify relevant studies exploring the potential link between pesticide exposure and SAB. The frequency of SAB events and the total number of patients in each group were used to calculate the Relative Risk (RR) using the Mantel-Haenszel random-effects model. Heterogeneity among the studies was evaluated by visually inspecting the forest plot and performing the Chi-square test and I2 tests. We also used RevMan version 5.4 for Windows for the analysis. We also used the NIH tool to assess the quality of the included studies. Results: The initial database search yielded 2121 results, with 1525 articles remaining after removing duplicates. After screening, 29 articles were eligible for full-text review, and 18 studies (Four case-control, eleven cohorts, three cross-sectional) were included in the meta-analysis, comprising 439,097 participants. All included studies evaluated the primary outcome, SAB. Most of the included studies were cross-sectional in design, and pesticide exposure was primarily assessed through questionnaires administered to patients. We found that most of our observational studies, precisely 12 out of the total, were deemed fair quality. Four studies were rated poor quality, while only two received a good quality rating. The analysis demonstrated a significant 41 % increase in SAB risk among pregnant women exposed to pesticides compared to pregnant women without exposure to pesticides (RR= 1.41, 95 % CI; [1.10, 1.80], P= 0.006). Conclusion: Our systematic review and meta-analysis revealed a significant 41 % increase in the risk of SAB among pregnant women exposed to pesticides. However, it is essential to acknowledge the limitations of the current evidence: potential publication bias and the inability to establish causality. Moving forward, future research should focus on longitudinal studies, mechanistic insights, and risk reduction strategies. In summary, our findings underscore the urgency of public health measures to protect maternal and fetal health in pesticide-exposed areas. Rigorous research and preventive strategies are crucial to mitigate adverse outcomes.

Glyphosate is the most widely used herbicide worldwide, with concerns over human exposure and potential health risks. Nevertheless, little is known about the sources of human exposure to glyphosate and its degradation product, aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA). In this study, we measured glyphosate and AMPA in 99 indoor dust samples collected from urban homes in sixteen states in the USA. Glyphosate and AMPA were detected in all samples at geometric mean (GM) concentrations of 193 and 30.8 ng/g, respectively. We found a strong and significant positive correlation between glyphosate and AMPA concentrations (r = 0.70, p

ObjectiveA 6-month longitudinal surveillance study of asymptomatic healthcare providers (HCP) was carried out at a large urban academic medical center in the United States to assess whether their job occupation with higher exposure risks to SARS-CoV-2 would equate with higher risk of contracting COVID-19 at the beginning of the pandemic before COVID-19 vaccines were available.MethodsA longitudinal cohort study design was used to collect and analyze immunological and virological monitoring data and self-report survey assessments of personal protective equipment (PPE) availability, adherence to infection control guidelines, and time spent on COVID-19 wards.ResultsAmong 289 eligible participants, SARS-CoV-2 exposure risk was high with 48-69% participants working in COVID-19 units and more than 30% of them caring for COVID-19 patients. However, the seroconversion rate was low with only 2.1% of participants developing humoral or cellular immunity against SARS-CoV-2.ConclusionOur study findings suggest that, for this HCP cohort working at a large urban academic medical center, a low incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection could be maintained under conditions of strict infection prevention protocols and reliable PPE availability.

BackgroundIn the Global Burden of Disease research, it has been found that atmospheric fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution significantly harms human health. Currently, there is limited research on polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) that exhibit high toxicity effects in PM2.5 . ObjectiveBy studying the spatiotemporal distribution and variation characteristics of PCDD/Fs in PM2.5 in Pudong area of Shanghai, to assess the associated population health risk. MethodsThis study set up 28 sampling points in Pudong area. One sample of PM2.5 was collected during winter (February 2022) and summer (July 2022) at each site, with a sampling period lasting 24 h. The concentration of PM2.5 was measured by membrane filter method, and the content of 17 kinds of 2,3,7,8-substituted chlorinated PCDD/Fs in the samples was analyzed using isotope dilution. Seasonal variations (winter and summer) in the concentrations of PM2.5 and PCDD/Fs were evaluated, sources of PCDD/Fs pollution were tracing by principal component analysis, and health risks to the population from respiratory exposure to PCDD/Fs were estimated by VLIER-HUMAAN model. ResultsThe PM2.5 concentrations in the 28 samples ranged from 10 to 126 μg·m−3, while the concentrations of PCDD/Fs in PM2.5 ranged from 58 to 2625 fg·m−3. The concentration of PM2.5 during winter (11-126 μg·m−3) was higher than that during summer (10-60 μg·m−3). The concentration range of PCDD/Fs in winter was from 58 to 2625 fg·m−3, which corresponded to a range of toxic equivalent quantity (WHO-TEQ) concentration from 2.99 to 40.97 fg·m−3 when taking World Health Organization's toxic equivalency factor (WHO-TEQ); the concentration range of PCDD/Fs in summer was from 72 to 446 fg·m−3, which corresponded to a range of WHO-TEQ concentration from 2.66 to 16.61 fg·m−3. This range in summer was significantly lower than that observed in winter. The results of principal component analysis revealed that waste incineration was the primary source of PCDD/Fs in winter PM2.5 in the area, whereas traffic emissions emerged as the main source in summer. The assessment of Pudong residents' respiratory exposure to PCDD/Fs in PM2.5 showed significantly higher exposure of children in summer and winter than that of adults, indicating higher susceptibility of children to air pollutants. Both the hazard ratios (HR) for children and adults were below 1, while the cancer risks (CR) ranged from 8.41×10−8 to 2.35×10−6. Notably, during winter, the CR at 4 locations slightly exceeds 1×10−6, indicating a potential carcinogenic risk. ConclusionThe overall pollution level of PCDD/Fs in PM2.5 in Pudong area is relatively low, but it shows clear seasonal patterns. Waste incineration and traffic are the main sources of PCDD/Fs in PM2.5 in the area. Although the cancer risk of exposure to PCDD/Fs in PM2.5 for children or adults is relatively low, there is a certain risk at some locations in winter, necessitating additional monitoring and control.

Density has been a key focus in research on the urban dimensions of the COVID-19 pandemic. Much of this work has debated the role of density in infection rates. In contrast, we develop a comparison of the management of pandemic urbanism in two high density Asian cities with divergent pandemic experiences: Manila and Taipei. To pursue the comparison, we develop two conceptualisations of density: exposure density and networked density. Our approach allows us to examine the nature and consequences, especially for the urban poor, of different approaches to density in the pandemic, and to advance research on urban density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

American cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) is the most prevalent form of leishmaniasis, associated with an ulcerative and stigmatizing mucocutaneous pathology. This study assessed the incidence of Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis in members of the Argentine Army who were exposed to sandfly bites in Iguazú National Park (INP), northeastern Argentina, during an outbreak of ACL in 2019, and the presence of Leishmania in rodents, opossums and phlebotomine sandflies collected in the area of exposure. Samples from military personnel, wild animals and phlebotomine sandflies were analysed. A total of 20 (40%) patients among the Army personnel and two Akodon montensis rodents (11%) were positive for the presence of Leishmania sp. genes by PCR, while Nyssomyia whitmani and Migonemyia migonei, competent vectors of Leishmania, were also found at the same site. Sequences of hsp70 DNA fragments obtained from human samples confirmed the identity of L. (V.) braziliensis. The risk to which military personnel carrying out activities in the forest are exposed is highlighted, and this risk extends to any worker and visitor who circulates without protection in the INP, coming into contact with transmission "hot spots" due to the concentration of vectors, reservoirs and/or parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pentachlorophenol (PCP) is a ubiquitous emerging persistent organic pollutant detected in the environment and foodstuffs. Despite the dietary intake of PCP being performed using surveillance data, the assessment does not consider the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of PCP. Pork, beef, pork liver, chicken and freshwater fish Ctenopharyngodon Idella-fortified by three levels of PCP were processed by RIVM and the Caco-2 cell model after steaming, boiling and pan-frying, and PCP in foods and digestive juices were detected using isotope dilution–UPLC-MS/MS. The culinary treatment and food matrix were significantly influenced (p < 0.05) in terms of the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of PCP. Pan-frying was a significant factor (p < 0.05) influencing the digestion and absorption of PCP in foods, with the following bioaccessibility: pork (81.37–90.36%), beef (72.09–83.63%), pork liver (69.11–78.07%), chicken (63.43–75.52%) and freshwater fish (60.27–72.14%). The bioavailability was as follows: pork (49.39–63.41%), beef (40.32–53.43%), pork liver (33.63–47.11%), chicken (30.63–40.83%) and freshwater fish (17.14–27.09%). Pork and beef with higher fat content were a key factor in facilitating the notable PCP bioaccessibility and bioavailability (p < 0.05). Further, the exposure of PCP to the population was significantly reduced by 42.70–98.46% after the consideration of bioaccessibility and bioavailability, with no potential health risk. It can improve the accuracy of risk assessment for PCP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The severe health risk associated with elevated levels of indoor radon gas is well known and widely reported. Measuring residential indoor radon-in-air levels is expensive, labour- and time-intensive. Two of the most important estimators of high levels of indoor radon gas are the underlying geology of an area and the climatic conditions, especially temperature and wind. While varying geology leads to different exhalation rates of radon gas, the climate can mitigate or enhance indoor radon gas levels. The research in this study developed and tested a novel approach to rapidly identify the most probable areas of high indoor radon levels, potential targets for indoor radon measurements. The study utilizes GIS tools to superimpose overlays of geology, climate, and wind to identify possible radon hotspots. South Africa was selected as a study site due to its varying climatic conditions and unique geology which have large areas of underlaying uranium-bearing rock units. Several of the identified hotspots were compared to actual indoor radon measurements, and a good similarity between actual and estimated indoor radon levels was found. This method can easily be applied to other sites or regions, giving it both practical and theoretical values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the spatiotemporal variability of particle-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and assess their carcinogenic potential in six contrasting urban environments in Greece, a total of 305 filter samples were collected and analyzed. Sampling sites included a variety of urban background, traffic (Athens, Ioannina and Heraklion), rural (Xanthi) and near-port locations (Piraeus and Volos). When considering the sum of 16 U.S. EPA priority PAHs, as well as that of the six EU-proposed members, average concentrations observed across locations during summer varied moderately (0.4–2.2 ng m−3) and independently of the population of each site, with the highest values observed in the areas of Piraeus and Volos that are affected by port and industrial activities. Winter levels were significantly higher and more spatially variable compared to summer, with the seasonal enhancement ranging from 7 times in Piraeus to 98 times in Ioannina, indicating the large impact of PAH emissions from residential wood burning. Regarding benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), an IARC Group 1 carcinogen and the only EU-regulated PAH, the winter/summer ratios were 24–33 in Athens, Volos, Heraklion and Xanthi; 60 in Piraeus; and 480 in Ioannina, which is afflicted by severe wood-burning pollution events. An excellent correlation was observed between organic carbon (OC) and benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) during the cold period at all urban sites (r2 > 0.8) with stable BaP/OC slopes (0.09–0.14 × 10−3), highlighting the potential use of OC as a proxy for the estimation of BaP in winter conditions. The identified spatiotemporal contrasts, which were explored for the first time for PAHs at such a scale in the Eastern Mediterranean, provide important insights into sources and controlling atmospheric conditions and reveal large deviations in exposure risks among cities that raise the issue of environmental injustice on a national level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reduce the high burden of disease caused by air pollution, the World Health Organization (WHO) released new Air Quality Guidelines (AQG) on September 22, 2021. In this study, the daily fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and surface ozone (O3) data of 618 cities around the world is collected from 2019 to 2022. Based on the new AQG, the number of attainment days for daily average concentrations of PM2.5 (≤ 15 µg m−3) and O3 (≤ 100 µg m−3) is approximately 10% and 90%, respectively. China and India exhibit a decreasing trend in the number of highly polluted days (> 75 µg m−3) for PM. Every year over 68% and 27% of cities in the world are exposed to harmful PM2.5 (> 35 µg m−3) and O3 (> 100 µg m−3) pollution, respectively. Combined with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it is found that more than 35% of the world's cities face PM2.5‐O3 compound pollution. Furthermore, the exposure risks in these cities (China, India, etc.) are mainly categorized as "High Risk", "Risk", and "Stabilization". In contrast, economically developed cities are mainly categorized as "High Safety", "Safety", and "Deep Stabilization." These findings indicate that global implementation of the WHO's new AQG will minimize the inequitable exposure risk from air pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term exposure to high surface ozone (O3) concentrations, a complex oxidative atmospheric pollutant, can adversely impact human health. Based on O3 monitoring data from 261 cities worldwide in 2020, generalized additive model (GAM) and spatial data analysis (SDA) methods were applied in this study to quantitatively evaluate the spatiotemporal distribution of O3 concentration, exposure risk, and dominant meteorological factors. Results indicated that over 40% of the cities worldwide were exposed to harmful O3 concentration ranges (40–60 µg/m3), with most cities distributed in China and India. Moreover, significant seasonal variations in global O3 concentrations were observed, presenting as summer (45.6 µg/m3) > spring (47.3 µg/m3) > autumn (38.0 µg/m3) > winter (33.6 µg/m3). Exposure analysis revealed that approximately 12.2% of the population in 261 cities were exposed to an environment with high O3 concentrations (80–160 µg/m3), with about 36.32 million people in major countries. Thus, the persistent increase in high O3 levels worldwide is a critical factor contributing to threats to human health. Furthermore, GAM results indicated temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed as primary determinants of O3 variability. The synergy of meteorological factors is critical for understanding O3 changes. Our findings are important for enforcing robust air quality policies and mitigating public risk.

BackgroundIt remains unclear if there is a dose-dependent relationship between exposure risk to Ebola virus (EBOV) and severity of illness.MethodsFrom September 2016 to July 2017, we conducted a cross-sectional, community-based study of Ebola virus disease (EVD) cases and household contacts of several transmission chains in Kono District, Sierra Leone. We analyzed 154 quarantined households, comprising both reported EVD cases and their close contacts. We used epidemiological surveys and blood samples to define severity of illness as no infection, pauci-/asymptomatic infection, unrecognized EVD, reported EVD cases who survived, or reported EVD decedents. We determine seropositivity with the Filovirus Animal Nonclinical Group EBOV glycoprotein immunoglobulin G antibody test. We defined levels of exposure risk from 8 questions and considered contact with body fluid as maximum exposure risk.ResultsOur analysis included 76 reported EVD cases (both decedents and survivors) and 421 close contacts. Among these contacts, 40 were seropositive (22 paucisymptomatic and 18 unrecognized EVD), accounting for 34% of the total 116 EBOV infections. Higher exposure risks were associated with having had EBOV infection (maximum risk: adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 12.1 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 5.8-25.4; trend test: P

Abstract To reduce the high burden of disease caused by air pollution, the World Health Organization (WHO) released new Air Quality Guidelines (AQG) on September 22, 2021. In this study, the daily fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and surface ozone (O3) data of 618 cities around the world is collected from 2019 to 2022. Based on the new AQG, the number of attainment days for daily average concentrations of PM2.5 (≤ 15 µg m−3) and O3 (≤ 100 µg m−3) is approximately 10% and 90%, respectively. China and India exhibit a decreasing trend in the number of highly polluted days (> 75 µg m−3) for PM. Every year over 68% and 27% of cities in the world are exposed to harmful PM2.5 (> 35 µg m−3) and O3 (> 100 µg m−3) pollution, respectively. Combined with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it is found that more than 35% of the world's cities face PM2.5‐O3 compound pollution. Furthermore, the exposure risks in these cities (China, India, etc.) are mainly categorized as “High Risk”, “Risk”, and “Stabilization”. In contrast, economically developed cities are mainly categorized as “High Safety”, “Safety”, and “Deep Stabilization.” These findings indicate that global implementation of the WHO's new AQG will minimize the inequitable exposure risk from air pollution.

• Biopharmaceutical industries are important sources of VOCs emission. • The types and emissions of VOCs are related to the processes adopted by enterprises. • Health risks was emulated based on the simulation of pollutants diffusion. • The VB12 process led to considerable ozone formation potential. • Benzene and chlorobenzene cause significant SOA formation potential. The biopharmaceutical industry contributes substantially to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emissions, causing growing concerns and social developmental conflicts. This study conducted an on-site investigation of the process-based emission of VOCs from three biopharmaceutical enterprises. In the workshops of the three enterprises, 26 VOCs were detected, which could be sorted into 4 classes: hydrocarbons, aromatic hydrocarbons, oxygen-containing compounds, and nitrogen-containing compounds. Ketones were the main components of waste gases, accounting for 44.13%–77.85% of the overall VOCs. Process-based source profiles were compiled for each process unit, with the fermentation and extraction units of tiamulin fumarate being the main source of VOC emissions. Dimethyl heptanone, vinyl acetate, diethylamine, propylene glycol methyl ether (PGME), and benzene were screened as priority pollutants through a fuzzy comprehensive evaluation system. Ground level concentration simulation results of the Gauss plume diffusion model demonstrated that the diffusivity of VOCs in the atmosphere was relatively high, indicating potential non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks 1.5–2 km downwind. Furthermore, the process-based formation potentials of ozone and secondary organic aerosols (SOAs) were determined and indicated that N -methyl-2-pyrrolidone, dimethyl heptanone, and PGME should be preferentially controlled to reduce the ozone formation potential, whereas the control of benzene and chlorobenzene should be prioritized to reduce the generation of SOAs. Our results provide a basis for understanding the characteristics of VOC emission by biopharmaceutical industries and their diffusion, potentially allowing the development of measures to reduce health risks and secondary pollution. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]