International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

12 pages, 926 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Physico-Chemical and Microbial Analysis of Selected Borehole Water in Mahikeng, South Africa

by Lobina Palamuleni^*,† and Mercy Akoth^†

¹ Department of Geography and Environmental Sciences, Mafikeng Campus, North West University, Private bag X2046, Mmabatho 2735, South Africa

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8619-8630; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808619 - 23 Jul 2015

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 12357

Abstract

Groundwater is generally considered a “safe source” of drinking water because it is abstracted with low microbial load with little need for treatment before drinking. However, groundwater resources are commonly vulnerable to pollution, which may degrade their quality. An assessment of microbial and [...] Read more.

Groundwater is generally considered a “safe source” of drinking water because it is abstracted with low microbial load with little need for treatment before drinking. However, groundwater resources are commonly vulnerable to pollution, which may degrade their quality. An assessment of microbial and physicochemical qualities of borehole water in the rural environs of Mahikeng town, South Africa, was carried out. The study aimed at determining levels of physicochemical (temperature, pH, turbidity and nitrate) and bacteriological (both faecal and total coliform bacteria) contaminants in drinking water using standard microbiology methods. Furthermore, identities of isolates were determined using the API 20E assay. Results were compared with World Health Organisation (WHO) and Department of Water Affairs (DWAF-SA) water quality drinking standards. All analyses for physicochemical parameters were within acceptable limits except for turbidity while microbial loads during spring were higher than the WHO and DWAF thresholds. The detection of Escherichia coli, Salmonella and Klebsiella species in borehole water that was intended for human consumption suggests that water from these sources may pose severe health risks to consumers and is unsuitable for direct human consumption without treatment. The study recommends mobilisation of onsite treatment interventions to protect the households from further possible consequences of using the water. Full article

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13 pages, 4650 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Temperature on Fimbrial Gene Expression and Adherence of Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli

by Woranich Hinthong¹, Nitaya Indrawattana², Pannamthip Pitaksajjakul^1,3, Chonlatip Pipattanaboon³, Thida Kongngoen², Prapin Tharnpoophasiam¹ and Suwalee Worakhunpiset^1,*

¹ Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Ratchadewee, Bangkok 10400, Thailand

² Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Ratchadewee, Bangkok 10400, Thailand

³ Center of Excellence for Antibody Research (CEAR), Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Ratchadewee, Bangkok 10400, Thailand

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8631-8643; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808631 - 23 Jul 2015

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5307

Abstract

The influence of temperature on bacterial virulence has been studied worldwide from the viewpoint of climate change and global warming. The bacterium enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (EAEC) is the causative agent of watery diarrhea and shows an increasing incidence worldwide. Its pathogenicity is associated [...] Read more.

The influence of temperature on bacterial virulence has been studied worldwide from the viewpoint of climate change and global warming. The bacterium enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (EAEC) is the causative agent of watery diarrhea and shows an increasing incidence worldwide. Its pathogenicity is associated with the virulence factors aggregative adherence fimbria type I and II (AAFI and AAFII), encoded by aggA and aafA in EAEC strains 17-2 and 042, respectively. This study focused on the effect of temperature increases from 29 °C to 40 °C on fimbrial gene expression using real-time PCR, and on its virulence using an aggregative adherence assay and biofilm formation assay. Incubation at 32 °C caused an up-regulation in both EAEC strains 17-2 and strain 042 virulence gene expression. EAEC strain 042 cultured at temperature above 32 °C showed down-regulation of aafA expression except at 38 °C. Interestingly, EAEC cultured at a high temperature showed a reduced adherence to cells and an uneven biofilm formation. These results provide evidence that increases in temperature potentially affect the virulence of pathogenic EAEC, although the response varies in each strain. Full article

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14 pages, 656 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experience of Multisensory Environments in Public Space among People with Visual Impairment

by Gavin R. Jenkins, Hon K. Yuen^* and Laura K. Vogtle

Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8644-8657; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808644 - 23 Jul 2015

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 9094

Abstract

This qualitative study explored the role of sensory characteristics embedded in the built environment and whether they support or hinder people with visual impairment in their use of public spaces. An online survey link was e-mailed to the presidents and committee members of [...] Read more.

This qualitative study explored the role of sensory characteristics embedded in the built environment and whether they support or hinder people with visual impairment in their use of public spaces. An online survey link was e-mailed to the presidents and committee members of each state’s chapters and associations of the National Federation of the Blind in the United States, resulting in 451 direct invitations to participate. Written responses of the survey questions from 48 respondents with visual impairment were analyzed. Three main themes: Barriers, Supporters, and Context-Dependence emerged from the respondents’ experience of multisensory characteristics within the built environment. The four subthemes subsumed in Barriers were: (1) Population specific design, (2) Extreme sensory backgrounds, (3) Uneven ground surfaces and objects, and (4) Inconsistent lighting. For Supporters, respondents provided specific examples of various sensory characteristics in built environments, including audible cues and echoes, smells, tactile quality of the ground surface, and temperature. Context-Dependence referred to the effects of sensory characteristics embedded in public spaces depending on one’s vision condition, the proximity to the sensory cues and the purpose of the activities one was performing at that moment. Findings provide occupational therapy practitioners an in-depth understanding of the transactional relationship between embedded sensory characteristics in the built environment, occupations, and people with visual impairment in order to make appropriate modifications or removal of barriers that affect occupational performance and engagement. Suggestions for occupational therapists as well as architects, designers, planners, policy makers/legislators related to functional sensory cues in the design of built environments were provided to increase accessibility in the use of public spaces by people with visual impairment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Therapies and Human Well-Being)

20 pages, 298 KiB

Open AccessReview

Effect of Disinfectants on Preventing the Cross-Contamination of Pathogens in Fresh Produce Washing Water

by Jennifer L. Banach^1,*, Imca Sampers², Sam Van Haute² and H.J. (Ine) Van der Fels-Klerx¹

¹ RIKILT - Wageningen UR (University and Research Centre), P.O. Box 230, 6700 AE Wageningen, The Netherlands

² Laboratory of Food Microbiology and Biotechnology, Department of Industrial Biological Sciences, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University Campus Kortrijk, Graaf Karel de Goedelaan 5, Kortrijk B-8500, Belgium

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8658-8677; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808658 - 23 Jul 2015

Cited by 181 | Viewed by 13998

Abstract

The potential cross-contamination of pathogens between clean and contaminated produce in the washing tank is highly dependent on the water quality. Process wash water disinfectants are applied to maintain the water quality during processing. The review examines the efficacy of process wash water [...] Read more.

The potential cross-contamination of pathogens between clean and contaminated produce in the washing tank is highly dependent on the water quality. Process wash water disinfectants are applied to maintain the water quality during processing. The review examines the efficacy of process wash water disinfectants during produce processing with the aim to prevent cross-contamination of pathogens. Process wash water disinfection requires short contact times so microorganisms are rapidly inactivated. Free chlorine, chlorine dioxide, ozone, and peracetic acid were considered suitable disinfectants. A disinfectant’s reactivity with the organic matter will determine the disinfectant residual, which is of paramount importance for microbial inactivation and should be monitored in situ. Furthermore, the chemical and worker safety, and the legislative framework will determine the suitability of a disinfection technique. Current research often focuses on produce decontamination and to a lesser extent on preventing cross-contamination. Further research on a sanitizer’s efficacy in the washing water is recommended at the laboratory scale, in particular with experimental designs reflecting industrial conditions. Validation on the industrial scale is warranted to better understand the overall effects of a sanitizer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Safety)

13 pages, 1459 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Combined Disinfection Methods for Reducing Escherichia coli O157:H7 Population on Fresh-Cut Vegetables

by Eva Petri^*, Mariola Rodríguez and Silvia García

R&D&I Area, National Centre for Food Technology and Safety (CNTA), San Adrian 31570, Navarra, Spain

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8678-8690; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808678 - 23 Jul 2015

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 8489

Abstract

Most current disinfection strategies for fresh-cut industry are focused on the use of different chemical agents; however, very little has been reported on the effectiveness of the hurdle technology. The effect of combined decontamination methods based on the use of different sanitizers (peroxyacetic [...] Read more.

Most current disinfection strategies for fresh-cut industry are focused on the use of different chemical agents; however, very little has been reported on the effectiveness of the hurdle technology. The effect of combined decontamination methods based on the use of different sanitizers (peroxyacetic acid and chlorine dioxide) and the application of pressure (vacuum/positive pressure) on the inactivation of the foodborne pathogen E. coli O157:H7 on fresh-cut lettuce (Lactuca sativa) and carrots (Daucus carota) was studied. Fresh produce, inoculated with E. coli O157:H7, was immersed (4 °C, 2 min) in tap water (W), chlorine water (CW), chlorine dioxide (ClO₂: 2 mg/L) and peroxyacetic acid (PAA: 100 mg/L) in combination with: (a) vacuum (V: 10 mbar) or (b) positive pressure application (P: 3 bar). The product quality and antimicrobial effects of the treatment on bacterial counts were determined both in process washing water and on fresh-cut produce. Evidence obtained in this study, suggests that the use of combined methods (P/V + sanitizers) results in a reduction on the microorganism population on produce similar to that found at atmospheric pressure. Moreover, the application of physical methods led to a significant detrimental effect on the visual quality of lettuce regardless of the solution used. Concerning the process water, PAA proved to be an effective alternative to chlorine for the avoidance of cross-contamination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Safety)

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14 pages, 4995 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Ambient Temperature on Childhood HFMD Incidence in Inland and Coastal Area: A Two-City Study in Shandong Province, China

by Lin Zhu^1,†, Zhongshang Yuan^1,†, Xianjun Wang², Jie Li¹, Lu Wang¹, Yunxia Liu¹, Fuzhong Xue¹ and Yanxun Liu^1,*

¹ Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China

² Shandong Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan 250012, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8691-8704; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808691 - 23 Jul 2015

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 8012

Abstract

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) has been a substantial burden throughout the Asia-Pacific countries over the past decades. For the purposes of disease prevention and climate change health impact assessment, it is important to understand the temperature–disease association for HFMD in different [...] Read more.

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) has been a substantial burden throughout the Asia-Pacific countries over the past decades. For the purposes of disease prevention and climate change health impact assessment, it is important to understand the temperature–disease association for HFMD in different geographical locations. This study aims to assess the impact of temperature on HFMD incidence in an inland city and a coastal city and investigate the heterogeneity of temperature–disease associations. Daily morbidity data and meteorological variables of the study areas were collected for the period from 2007 to 2012. A total of 108,377 HFMD cases were included in this study. A distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM) with Poisson distribution was used to examine the nonlinear lagged effects of daily mean temperature on HFMD incidence. After controlling potential confounders, temperature showed significant association with HFMD incidence and the two cities demonstrated different impact modes ( I²= 96.1%; p < 0.01). The results highlight the effect of temperature on HFMD incidence and the impact pattern may be modified by geographical localities. Our findings can be a practical reference for the early warning and intervention strategies of HFMD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cumulative and Integrated Health Impact Assessment)

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12 pages, 706 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of National Smoke-Free Legislation on Educational Disparities in Smoke-Free Homes: Findings from the SIDRIAT Longitudinal Study

by Giuseppe Gorini¹, Giulia Carreras^1,*,†, Barbara Cortini^1,†, Simona Verdi^1,†, Maria Grazia Petronio^2,†, Piersante Sestini^3,† and Elisabetta Chellini¹

¹ Occupational & Environmental Epidemiology Unit-Cancer Research & Prevention Institute (ISPO), Florence 50141, Italy

² Prevention Department, Empoli Local Health Authority, Empoli 50053, Italy

³ Section of Phthisiology and Diseases of Respiratory Tract, Siena University, Siena 53100, Italy

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8705-8716; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808705 - 24 Jul 2015

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4967

Abstract

Families with lower socioeconomic status are less likely to adopt household smoking bans (HSB). The aim of this study was to determine whether socioeconomic disparities in HSB prevalence in Italy decreased 7–9 years after the introduction of the Italian ban on smoking in [...] Read more.

Families with lower socioeconomic status are less likely to adopt household smoking bans (HSB). The aim of this study was to determine whether socioeconomic disparities in HSB prevalence in Italy decreased 7–9 years after the introduction of the Italian ban on smoking in public places. A longitudinal, 12-year, two-wave study was conducted on a sample of 3091 youths aged 6–14 years in 2002; 1763 (57%) were re-interviewed in 2012–2014. A Poisson regression with a robust error variance was used to assess the association between socioeconomic disparities and HSB prevalence. The adoption of HSBs significantly increased from 60% in 2002 to 75% in 2012–2014, with the increase recorded in youths with ≥1 smoking parent only (from 22% at baseline to 46% at follow-up). The presence of HSBs at baseline was more likely in families with ≥1 graduate parent compared to those with no graduate parents (prevalence ratio (PR) = 1.34, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.15–1.57), either in families with ≥1 smoking parent (PR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.17–1.58) or in families with non-smoking parents (PR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.01–2.56). Conversely, at follow-up socioeconomic disparities dropped since families with no graduate parents were 1.5-fold more likely to introduce a HSB between the two waves. The Italian ban on smoking in public places may have increased the adoption of smoke-free homes in families with smoking and non-graduate parents, causing the drop of the socioeconomic gap in smoke-free homes. Full article

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27 pages, 805 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inventory of Engineered Nanoparticle-Containing Consumer Products Available in the Singapore Retail Market and Likelihood of Release into the Aquatic Environment

by Yuanyuan Zhang, Yu-Rui Leu, Robert J. Aitken and Michael Riediker^*

SAFENANO, IOM Singapore, 30 Raffles Place, #17-00 Chevron House, Singapore 048622, Singapore

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8717-8743; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808717 - 24 Jul 2015

Cited by 81 | Viewed by 11846

Abstract

Consumer products containing engineered nanoparticles (ENP) are already entering the marketplace. This leads, inter alia, to questions about the potential for release of ENP into the environment from commercial products. We have inventoried the prevalence of ENP-containing consumer products in the Singapore [...] Read more.

Consumer products containing engineered nanoparticles (ENP) are already entering the marketplace. This leads, inter alia, to questions about the potential for release of ENP into the environment from commercial products. We have inventoried the prevalence of ENP-containing consumer products in the Singapore market by carrying out onsite assessments of products sold in all major chains of retail and cosmetic stores. We have assessed their usage patterns and estimated release factors and emission quantities to obtain a better understanding of the quantities of ENP that are released into which compartments of the aquatic environment in Singapore. Products investigated were assessed for their likelihood to contain ENP based on the declaration of ENP by producers, feature descriptions, and the information on particle size from the literature. Among the 1,432 products investigated, 138 were “confirmed” and 293 were “likely” to contain ENP. Product categories included sunscreens, cosmetics, health and fitness, automotive, food, home and garden, clothing and footwear, and eyeglass/lens coatings. Among the 27 different types of nanomaterials identified, SiO₂ was predominant, followed by TiO₂ and ZnO, Carbon Black, Ag, and Au. The amounts of ENP released into the aquatic system, which was estimated on the basis of typical product use, ENP concentration in the product, daily use quantity, release factor, and market share, were in the range of several hundred tons per year. As these quantities are likely to increase, it will be important to further study the fate of ENP that reach the aquatic environment in Singapore. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Fate and Effect of Nanoparticles and Nanomaterials)

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18 pages, 840 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Injury Risk Factors in a Small-Scale Gold Mining Community in Ghana’s Upper East Region

by Rachel N. Long¹, Kan Sun¹ and Richard L. Neitzel^1,2,*

¹ Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

² Risk Science Center, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8744-8761; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808744 - 24 Jul 2015

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 9847

Abstract

Occupational injury is one of many health concerns related to small-scale gold mining (ASGM), but few data exist on the subject, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. In 2011 and 2013, we examined accidents, injuries, and potential risk factors in a Ghanaian ASGM community. In [...] Read more.

Occupational injury is one of many health concerns related to small-scale gold mining (ASGM), but few data exist on the subject, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. In 2011 and 2013, we examined accidents, injuries, and potential risk factors in a Ghanaian ASGM community. In 2011, 173 participants were surveyed on occupational history and health, and 22 of these were surveyed again in 2013. Injury rates were estimated at 45.5 and 38.5 injuries per 100 person-years in 2011 and in 2013, respectively; these rates far surpass those of industrialized mines in the U.S. and South Africa. Demographic and job characteristics generally were not predictive of injury risk, though there was a significant positive association with injury risk for males and smokers. Legs and knees were the most common body parts injured, and falling was the most common cause of injury. The most common type of injuries were cuts or lacerations, burns and scalds, and contusions and abrasions. Only two miners had ever received any occupational safety training, and PPE use was low. Our results suggest that injuries should be a priority area for occupational health research in ASGM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Assessment of Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) in Ghana)

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11 pages, 1206 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Effectiveness of Antiretroviral Therapy in China: An Observational Cohort Study from 2003–2014

by Peng Huang^1,†, Jingguang Tan^2,†, Wenzhe Ma¹, Hui Zheng¹, Yan Lu², Ning Wang³, Zhihang Peng^1,* and Rongbin Yu^1,*

¹ Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China

² Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen 518055, China

³ National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 102206, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8762-8772; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808762 - 24 Jul 2015

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4648

Abstract

In order to assess the effectiveness of the Chinese government’s expanded access program, a cohort study on all adult HIV patients in Shenzhen was conducted from December 2003 to February 2014 to estimate the effects of antiretroviral therapy (ART) on mortality, tuberculosis and [...] Read more.

In order to assess the effectiveness of the Chinese government’s expanded access program, a cohort study on all adult HIV patients in Shenzhen was conducted from December 2003 to February 2014 to estimate the effects of antiretroviral therapy (ART) on mortality, tuberculosis and CD4 cell counts. Marginal structural regression models adjusted for baseline and time-varying covariates. Of the 6897 patients enrolled and followed up for a maximum of 178 months, 44.92% received ART. Among patients who commenced receiving ART during the study, there were 98 deaths and 59 new tuberculosis diagnoses, while there were 410 deaths and 201 new tuberculosis diagnoses among those without ART. ART was associated with both lower mortality (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.18; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.11–0.27) and the presence of tuberculosis (HR = 0.27; 95% CI = 0.19–0.37). Each month of ART was associated with an average increase in CD4 cell count of 6.52 cells/µL (95% CI = 6.08–7.12 cells/µL). In conclusions, the effectiveness of ART provided by China government health services is the same as that in higher-income countries. Accounting to higher mortality rates from the delay of starting ART, faster expansion and timely imitation of ART are urgent. Full article

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17 pages, 3768 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Urban Heat Island on Climate Warming in the Yangtze River Delta Urban Agglomeration in China

by Qunfang Huang^1,2,* and Yuqi Lu^1,2,*

¹ College of Geography Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Wenyuan Road, Xianlin University District, Nanjing, 210023, China

² Jiangsu Center for Collaborative Innovation in Geographical Information Resource Development and Application, Nanjing 210046, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8773-8789; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808773 - 27 Jul 2015

Cited by 86 | Viewed by 10761

Abstract

The Yangtze River Delta (YRD) has experienced rapid urbanization and dramatic economic development since 1978 and the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration (YRDUA) has been one of the three largest urban agglomerations in China. We present evidence of a significant urban heat island [...] Read more.

The Yangtze River Delta (YRD) has experienced rapid urbanization and dramatic economic development since 1978 and the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration (YRDUA) has been one of the three largest urban agglomerations in China. We present evidence of a significant urban heat island (UHI) effect on climate warming based on an analysis of the impacts of the urbanization rate, urban population, and land use changes on the warming rate of the daily average, minimal (nighttime) and maximal (daytime) air temperature in the YRDUA using 41 meteorological stations observation data. The effect of the UHI on climate warming shows a large spatial variability. The average warming rates of average air temperature of huge cities, megalopolises, large cities, medium-sized cities, and small cities are 0.483, 0.314 ± 0.030, 0.282 ± 0.042, 0.225 ± 0.044 and 0.179 ± 0.046 °C/decade during the period of 1957–2013, respectively. The average warming rates of huge cities and megalopolises are significantly higher than those of medium-sized cities and small cities, indicating that the UHI has a significant effect on climate warming (t-test, p < 0.05). Significantly positive correlations are found between the urbanization rate, population, built-up area and warming rate of average air temperature (p < 0.001). The average warming rate of average air temperature attributable to urbanization is 0.124 ± 0.074 °C/decade in the YRDUA. Urbanization has a measurable effect on the observed climate warming in the YRD aggravating the global climate warming. Full article

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21 pages, 732 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationship Between Tobacco Retailers’ Point-of-Sale Marketing and the Density of Same-Sex Couples, 97 U.S. Counties, 2012

by Joseph G. L. Lee^1,*

, Adam O. Goldstein^2,3,†, William K. Pan^4,5,† and Kurt M. Ribisl^1,3

¹ Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA

² Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, CB 7595, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA

³ Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA

⁴ Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Box 90519, Durham, NC 27708, USA

⁵ Nicholas School of Environment, Duke University, Box 90519, Durham, NC 27708, USA

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8790-8810; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808790 - 28 Jul 2015

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 7145

Abstract

The reasons for higher rates of smoking among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) people than among heterosexual people are not well known. Research on internal migration and neighborhood selection suggests that LGB people are more likely to live in neighborhoods where the tobacco [...] Read more.

The reasons for higher rates of smoking among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) people than among heterosexual people are not well known. Research on internal migration and neighborhood selection suggests that LGB people are more likely to live in neighborhoods where the tobacco industry has historically targeted their marketing efforts (lower income, more racial/ethnic diversity). We used multi-level models to assess the relationship between the rate of same-sex couples per 1000 coupled households and 2012 marketing characteristics of tobacco retailers (n = 2231) in 1696 census tracts in 97 U.S. counties. We found no evidence of tobacco marketing at retailers differing by same-sex couple rates in census tracts with the exception of three findings in the opposite direction of our hypotheses: a small, significant positive relationship for the rate of same-sex male couples and the price of Newport Green (mentholated) cigarettes. For male and female same-sex couples, we also found a small negative relationship between tobacco advertisements and same-sex household rate. Tobacco retailers’ tobacco marketing characteristics do not differ substantially by the rate of same-sex couples in their neighborhood in ways that would promote LGB health disparities. Further work is needed to determine if these patterns are similar for non-partnered LGB people. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tobacco Control 2015)

17 pages, 3715 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Accumulation of Heavy Metals and Metalloid in Foodstuffs from Agricultural Soils around Tarkwa Area in Ghana, and Associated Human Health Risks

by Nesta Bortey-Sam^1,†, Shouta M. M. Nakayama^1,†, Osei Akoto², Yoshinori Ikenaka^1,3, Julius N. Fobil⁴, Elvis Baidoo², Hazuki Mizukawa⁵ and Mayumi Ishizuka^1,*

¹ Laboratory of Toxicology, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita ku, Sapporo 060–0818, Japan

² Department of Chemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana

³ Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa

⁴ Department of Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Legon, Ghana

⁵ Department of Environmental Veterinary Science, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita ku, Sapporo 060–0818, Japan

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8811-8827; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808811 - 28 Jul 2015

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 10926

Abstract

This study was carried out to assess the extent of heavy metals and metalloid accumulation from agricultural soils to foodstuffs (viz, M. esculenta (cassava) and Musa paradisiaca (plantain)) around thirteen neighboring communities within Tarkwa, Ghana; and to estimate the human health risk associated [...] Read more.

This study was carried out to assess the extent of heavy metals and metalloid accumulation from agricultural soils to foodstuffs (viz, M. esculenta (cassava) and Musa paradisiaca (plantain)) around thirteen neighboring communities within Tarkwa, Ghana; and to estimate the human health risk associated with consumption of these foodstuffs. Concentrations of As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn were measured with an inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometer and mercury analysis was done using a mercury analyzer. From the results, 30% of cassava samples collected, contained higher concentrations of Pb when compared to Codex Alimentarius Commission standard values. Bioconcentration factor indicated that Ni had higher capacity of absorption into food crops from soil than the other heavy metals. For both children and adults, the target hazard quotient (THQ) of Pb in cassava in communities such as Techiman, Wangarakrom, Samahu, and Tebe (only children) were greater than 1, which is defined as an acceptable risk value. This indicated that residents could be exposed to significant health risks associated with cassava consumption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Assessment of Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) in Ghana)

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21 pages, 917 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Do Nanoparticle Physico-Chemical Properties and Developmental Exposure Window Influence Nano ZnO Embryotoxicity in Xenopus laevis?

by Patrizia Bonfanti^1,†, Elisa Moschini^1,†, Melissa Saibene¹, Renato Bacchetta², Leonardo Rettighieri³, Lorenzo Calabri³, Anita Colombo¹ and Paride Mantecca^1,*

¹ Department Earth and Environmental Sciences, POLARIS Research Centre, University of Milano Bicocca, 1 Piazza della Scienza, 20126 Milan, Italy

² Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, 26 via Celoria, 20133 Milan, Italy

³ Tec Star S.r.l., Viale Europa, 40, 41011 Campogalliano, Italy

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8828-8848; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808828 - 28 Jul 2015

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 6451

Abstract

The growing global production of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) suggests a realistic increase in the environmental exposure to such a nanomaterial, making the knowledge of its biological reactivity and its safe-by-design synthesis mandatory. In this study, the embryotoxicity of ZnONPs (1–100 mg/L) specifically [...] Read more.

The growing global production of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) suggests a realistic increase in the environmental exposure to such a nanomaterial, making the knowledge of its biological reactivity and its safe-by-design synthesis mandatory. In this study, the embryotoxicity of ZnONPs (1–100 mg/L) specifically synthesized for industrial purposes with different sizes, shapes (round, rod) and surface coatings (PEG, PVP) was tested using the frog embryo teratogenesis assay-Xenopus (FETAX) to identify potential target tissues and the most sensitive developmental stages. The ZnONPs did not cause embryolethality, but induced a high incidence of malformations, in particular misfolded gut and abdominal edema. Smaller, round NPs were more effective than the bigger, rod ones, and PEGylation determined a reduction in embryotoxicity. Ingestion appeared to be the most relevant exposure route. Only the embryos exposed from the stomodeum opening showed anatomical and histological lesions to the intestine, mainly referable to a swelling of paracellular spaces among enterocytes. In conclusion, ZnONPs differing in shape and surface coating displayed similar toxicity in X. laevis embryos and shared the same target organ. Nevertheless, we cannot exclude that the physico-chemical characteristics may influence the severity of such effects. Further research efforts are mandatory to ensure the synthesis of safer nano-ZnO-containing products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Fate and Effect of Nanoparticles and Nanomaterials)

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12 pages, 440 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cr(VI) Sorption/Desorption on Pine Sawdust and Oak Wood Ash

by Avelino Núñez-Delgado^1,*

, María José Fernández-Sanjurjo¹

, Esperanza Álvarez-Rodríguez¹

, Laura Cutillas-Barreiro², JuanCarlos Nóvoa-Muñoz²

and Manuel Arias-Estévez²

¹ Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Engineering Polytechnic School, University of Santiago de Compostela, Lugo 27002, Spain

² Department of Plant Biology and Soil Science, Faculty of Sciences, Campus Ourense, University of Vigo, Ourense 32004, Spain

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8849-8860; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808849 - 29 Jul 2015

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 6096

Abstract

The objective of this work was to study Cr(VI) sorption/desorption on two by-products from the wood industry: pine sawdust and oak wood ash. The retention/release experiments were carried out using standard batch-type trials. In the sorption-phase experiments, pine sawdust showed 23% sorption when [...] Read more.

The objective of this work was to study Cr(VI) sorption/desorption on two by-products from the wood industry: pine sawdust and oak wood ash. The retention/release experiments were carried out using standard batch-type trials. In the sorption-phase experiments, pine sawdust showed 23% sorption when a concentration of 100 mg Cr(VI)L⁻¹ was added, whereas sorption on oak wood ash was 17%. In the desorption-phase, chromium release was clearly higher from pine sawdust than from oak wood ash (98% and 66%, respectively). Sorption curves were well fitted to the Freundlich and Lineal models. In view of the results, both materials can be considered of very limited value to remove Cr from polluted soil and water, which can be of relevance regarding its appropriate use as biosorbents and recycled by-products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hazardous Waste and Human Health-2015)

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10 pages, 689 KiB

Open AccessArticle

School Term vs. School Holiday: Associations with Children’s Physical Activity, Screen-Time, Diet and Sleep

by Amanda E. Staiano^*, Stephanie T. Broyles

and Peter T. Katzmarzyk

Pennington Biomedical Research Center, 6400 Perkins Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70808-4124, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8861-8870; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808861 - 30 Jul 2015

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 6394

Abstract

This cross-sectional study examined differences in children’s health behaviors during school term (ST) versus school holiday (SH: June–July) and how associations changed when weather characteristics were considered. Children aged 5–18 years (n = 406) from a subtropical climate reported behaviors over 20 months. [...] Read more.

This cross-sectional study examined differences in children’s health behaviors during school term (ST) versus school holiday (SH: June–July) and how associations changed when weather characteristics were considered. Children aged 5–18 years (n = 406) from a subtropical climate reported behaviors over 20 months. Multivariable regression models controlling for age, sex, race and body mass index z-score（BMIz ） were used to examine associations between SH and each behavior. A second model included heat index, precipitation and daylight hours. Strenuous activity, moderate activity, total activity and TV viewing were significantly higher during SH than ST. After adjusting for weather characteristics, total activity remained significantly higher during SH, but the association with TV viewing was attenuated. Youth surveyed during high precipitation were significantly less likely to meet physical activity guidelines. There were no significant associations between SH and meeting sleep, physical activity or screen-time guidelines. Weather characteristics influenced associations between SH and youth’s physical activity and TV viewing. Full article

12 pages, 763 KiB

Open AccessReview

Infection Control Programs and Antibiotic Control Programs to Limit Transmission of Multi-Drug Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Infections: Evolution of Old Problems and New Challenges for Institutes

by Chang-Hua Chen^1,2,*, Li-Chen Lin¹, Yu-Jun Chang³, Yu-Min Chen⁴, Chin-Yen Chang² and Chieh-Chen Huang⁵

¹ The Infectious Disease Research Center, 135 Nan-Hsiao Street, Changhua 500, Taiwan

² Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, 135 Nan-Hsiao Street, Changhua 500, Taiwan

³ Epidemiology and Biostatics Center, Changhua Christian Hospital, 135 Nan-Hsiao Street, Changhua 500, Taiwan

⁴ Department of Pharmacy, Changhua Christian Hospital, 135 Nan-Hsiao Street, Changhua 500, Taiwan

⁵ Department of Life Science, National Chung Hsing University, 250 Kuo-Kuang Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8871-8882; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808871 - 30 Jul 2015

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 10401

Abstract

Background: Acinetobacter baumannii complex (A. baumannii) has been isolated worldwide. The rapid spread of multidrug-resistant A. baumannii complex (MDRAB) in clinical settings has made choosing an appropriate antibiotic to treat these infections and executing contact precautions difficult for clinicians. Although controlling [...] Read more.

Background: Acinetobacter baumannii complex (A. baumannii) has been isolated worldwide. The rapid spread of multidrug-resistant A. baumannii complex (MDRAB) in clinical settings has made choosing an appropriate antibiotic to treat these infections and executing contact precautions difficult for clinicians. Although controlling the transmission of MDRAB is a high priority for institutions, there is little information about MDRAB control. Therefore, this study evaluated infection control measures for A. baumannii infections, clusters and outbreaks in the literature. Methods: We performed a review of OVID Medline (from 1980 to 2015), and analyzed the literature. Results: We propose that both infection control programs and antibiotic control programs are essential for control of MDRAB. The first, effective control of MDRAB infections, requires compliance with a series of infection control methods including strict environmental cleaning, effective sterilization of reusable medical equipment, concentration on proper hand hygiene practices, and use of contact precautions, together with appropriate administrative guidance. The second strategy, effective antibiotic control programs to decrease A. baumannii, is also of paramount importance. Conclusion: We believe that both infection control programs and antibiotics stewardship programs are essential for control of MDRAB infections. Full article

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14 pages, 280 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Individual and School-Level Characteristics on a Child’s Gross Motor Coordination Development

by Raquel Chaves^1,2,*, Adam Baxter-Jones³

, Thayse Gomes⁴

, Michele Souza^2,4, Sara Pereira⁴

and José Maia⁴

¹ Academic Department of Physical Education, Federal University of Technology, Paraná (UTFPR), Av. Sete de Setembro, 3165, 80230-901-Curitiba/PR, Brazil

² CAPES Foundation, Ministry of Education of Brazil, SBN Quadra2, Bloco L, Lote 06, 70040020, Brasília, Brazil

³ College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan, 87 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B2, Canada

⁴ CIFI2D (Centro de Investigação, Formação, Inovação e Intervenção em Desporto), Kinanthropometry Lab, Faculty of Sport, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido Costa, 91, 4250-Porto, Portugal

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8883-8896; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808883 - 30 Jul 2015

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 7159

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify child and school-level characteristics that explained inter-individual differences in gross motor coordination (GMC). Participants (n = 390), recruited from 18 Portuguese primary schools, were aged 6 to 10 years of age. Birth weight, body fat [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to identify child and school-level characteristics that explained inter-individual differences in gross motor coordination (GMC). Participants (n = 390), recruited from 18 Portuguese primary schools, were aged 6 to 10 years of age. Birth weight, body fat (BF), physical activity (PA), physical fitness (PF) and GMC were assessed. School size, setting, infrastructure and physical education classes were considered as school context markers. A multilevel modeling approach was used to identify hierarchical effects (child and school levels). It was found that children-level variables (sex, PF, and BF) significantly explained 63% of the 90% variance fraction at the individual level; boys outperformed girls (p < 0.05), individuals with higher BF were less coordinated (p < 0.05), and those with higher PF were more coordinated (p < 0.05). School-variables (e.g. school size and playing surface) explained 84% of the 10% variation fraction. These findings confirm the roles of sex, PFS and BF. Interestingly they also suggest that the school environment plays a minor but significant role in GMC development. However, it is important to stress that the school context and conditions can also play an important role in a child’s motor development, providing adequate and enriching motor opportunities. Full article

22 pages, 7412 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Surrogate Model Application to the Identification of Optimal Groundwater Exploitation Scheme Based on Regression Kriging Method—A Case Study of Western Jilin Province

by Yongkai An^1,2, Wenxi Lu^1,2,* and Weiguo Cheng^1,2

¹ Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China

² College of Environment and Resources, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8897-8918; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808897 - 30 Jul 2015

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 5296

Abstract

This paper introduces a surrogate model to identify an optimal exploitation scheme, while the western Jilin province was selected as the study area. A numerical simulation model of groundwater flow was established first, and four exploitation wells were set in the Tongyu county [...] Read more.

This paper introduces a surrogate model to identify an optimal exploitation scheme, while the western Jilin province was selected as the study area. A numerical simulation model of groundwater flow was established first, and four exploitation wells were set in the Tongyu county and Qian Gorlos county respectively so as to supply water to Daan county. Second, the Latin Hypercube Sampling (LHS) method was used to collect data in the feasible region for input variables. A surrogate model of the numerical simulation model of groundwater flow was developed using the regression kriging method. An optimization model was established to search an optimal groundwater exploitation scheme using the minimum average drawdown of groundwater table and the minimum cost of groundwater exploitation as multi-objective functions. Finally, the surrogate model was invoked by the optimization model in the process of solving the optimization problem. Results show that the relative error and root mean square error of the groundwater table drawdown between the simulation model and the surrogate model for 10 validation samples are both lower than 5%, which is a high approximation accuracy. The contrast between the surrogate-based simulation optimization model and the conventional simulation optimization model for solving the same optimization problem, shows the former only needs 5.5 hours, and the latter needs 25 days. The above results indicate that the surrogate model developed in this study could not only considerably reduce the computational burden of the simulation optimization process, but also maintain high computational accuracy. This can thus provide an effective method for identifying an optimal groundwater exploitation scheme quickly and accurately. Full article

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14 pages, 2909 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chronic Exposure to Static Magnetic Fields from Magnetic Resonance Imaging Devices Deserves Screening for Osteoporosis and Vitamin D Levels: A Rat Model

by Harun R. Gungor^1,*

, Semih Akkaya¹, Nusret Ok¹, Aygun Yorukoglu², Cagdas Yorukoglu¹, Esat Kiter¹, Emin O. Oguz³, Nazan Keskin³ and Gulcin A. Mete³

¹ Orthopedics and Traumatology Department, Pamukkale University Medical Faculty, Denizli 20070, Turkey

² Pathology Department, Servergazi State Hospital, Denizli 20100, Turkey

³ Histology and Embriology Department, Pamukkale University Medical Faculty, Denizli 20070, Turkey

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8919-8932; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808919 - 30 Jul 2015

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5719

Abstract

Technicians often receive chronic magnetic exposures from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) devices, mainly due to static magnetic fields (SMFs). Here, we ascertain the biological effects of chronic exposure to SMFs from MRI devices on the bone quality using rats exposed to SMFs in [...] Read more.

Technicians often receive chronic magnetic exposures from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) devices, mainly due to static magnetic fields (SMFs). Here, we ascertain the biological effects of chronic exposure to SMFs from MRI devices on the bone quality using rats exposed to SMFs in MRI examining rooms. Eighteen Wistar albino male rats were randomly assigned to SMF exposure (A), sham (B), and control (C) groups. Group A rats were positioned within 50 centimeters of the bore of the magnet of 1.5 T MRI machine during the nighttime for 8 weeks. We collected blood samples for biochemical analysis, and bone tissue samples for electron microscopic and histological analysis. The mean vitamin D level in Group A was lower than in the other groups (p = 0.002). The mean cortical thickness, the mean trabecular wall thickness, and number of trabeculae per 1 mm² were significantly lower in Group A (p = 0.003). TUNEL assay revealed that apoptosis of osteocytes were significantly greater in Group A than the other groups (p = 0.005). The effect of SMFs in chronic exposure is related to movement within the magnetic field that induces low-frequency fields within the tissues. These fields can exceed the exposure limits necessary to deteriorate bone microstructure and vitamin D metabolism. Full article

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23 pages, 730 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Comparative Analyses of Granulometry, Mineral Composition and Major and Trace Element Concentrations in Soils Commonly Ingested by Humans

by Veronica M. Ngole-Jeme^1,*

and Georges-Ivo E. Ekosse²

¹ Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Science and Technology, North West University, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho 2735, South Africa

² Directorate of Research and Innovation, University of Venda, Private Bag X5050, Thohoyandou, Limpopo Province 0950, South Africa

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8933-8955; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808933 - 31 Jul 2015

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5683

Abstract

This study compared the granulometric properties, mineralogical composition and concentrations of major and trace element oxides of commonly ingested soils (geophagic soil) collected from different countries with a view of understanding how varied they may be in these properties and to understand the [...] Read more.

This study compared the granulometric properties, mineralogical composition and concentrations of major and trace element oxides of commonly ingested soils (geophagic soil) collected from different countries with a view of understanding how varied they may be in these properties and to understand the possible health implications of ingesting them. Soil samples were collected from three different countries (South Africa, Swaziland and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)) and their granulometric properties, concentrations of major and trace element oxides as well as mineralogical composition determined. Differences were observed in the granulometric properties of geophagic soil from the three different countries with most of them having <20% clay content. The soils also showed varied degrees of weathering with values of Chemical Index of Alteration (CIA) and Chemical Index of Weathering (CIW) being between 60% and 99.9% respectively. The mineral assemblages of the soils from South Africa and Swaziland were dominated by the primary minerals quartz and feldspar whereas soils from DRC had more of kaolinite, a secondary mineral than primary minerals. Soils from DRC were associated with silt, clay, Al₂O₃, and CIA unlike most samples from South Africa which were associated with SiO₂, sand, K₂O, CaO, and MgO. The soils from Swaziland were closely associated with silt, H₂O and Fe₂O₃(t). These associations reflect the mineralogy of the samples. These soils are not likely to serve as nutrient supplements because of the low concentrations of the nutrient elements contained. The coarse texture of the samples may also result in dental destruction during mastication. Sieving of the soils before ingestion to remove coarse particles is recommended to reduce the potential health threat associated with the ingestion of coarse-textured soils. Full article

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15 pages, 208 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perspectives on Smoking Initiation and Maintenance: A Qualitative Exploration among Singapore Youth

by Mythily Subramaniam^*, Shazana Shahwan, Restria Fauziana, Pratika Satghare, Louisa Picco, Janhavi Ajit Vaingankar and Siow Ann Chong

Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, Buangkok Green Medical Park, 10 Buangkok View, 539747, Singapore

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8956-8970; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808956 - 31 Jul 2015

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 10091

Abstract

Studies among adolescents have shown that several important interpersonal, intrapersonal and environmental factors are associated with smoking behaviour. The current qualitative research project aimed to explore the determinants of smoking initiation and maintenance, from a youth perspective, among young people who smoked, living [...] Read more.

Studies among adolescents have shown that several important interpersonal, intrapersonal and environmental factors are associated with smoking behaviour. The current qualitative research project aimed to explore the determinants of smoking initiation and maintenance, from a youth perspective, among young people who smoked, living in a multi-ethnic Asian country. Focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with youths in Singapore in youth-friendly and accessible locations. Young people, from a variety of social contexts—varying on age, gender, ethnicity and educational level, were included in the study. All FGDs were conducted in English and participants were recruited using a mix of network and purposive sampling. All FGDs were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. The data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis, allowing themes to emerge from the data with the goal of answering the research question. Ninety-one youth smokers (54 males, 37 females), aged between 14 to 29 years, participated in the study. The majority were males (59%) and of Chinese ethnicity (52%). Participants identified multiple personal, social, and familial influences on young adults’ smoking behaviors. Peer and family influences, as well as risk minimization, played a key role in smoking initiation and maintenance. While young people were aware of policies that restricted smoking, these did not directly affect their decision to start smoking. The theory of triadic influence provided a promising theoretical framework to understand smoking initiation and maintenance in a sample of young adult smokers from a multi-ethnic Asian country. It also provides actionable information for initiatives to prevent smoking in young people, which includes their perspectives and emphasizes an inclusive approach without stigmatizing those who smoke. Full article

41 pages, 2414 KiB

Open AccessReview

Integrated Assessment of Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining in Ghana—Part 2: Natural Sciences Review

by Mozhgon Rajaee¹, Samuel Obiri², Allyson Green¹, Rachel Long¹, Samuel J. Cobbina³, Vincent Nartey⁴, David Buck⁵, Edward Antwi⁶ and Niladri Basu^1,7,*

¹ Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

² Council for Scientific and Industrial Research-Water Research Institute, Tamale, Ghana

³ Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources, University for Development Studies, Nyankpala, Ghana

⁴ Department of Chemistry, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana

⁵ Biodiversity Research Institute, Portland, ME 04103, USA

⁶ Centre for Energy, Environment & Sustainable Development, Kumasi, Ghana

⁷ Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 8971-9011; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120808971 - 31 Jul 2015

Cited by 95 | Viewed by 18514

Abstract

This paper is one of three synthesis documents produced via an integrated assessment (IA) that aims to increase understanding of artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) in Ghana. Given the complexities surrounding ASGM, an integrated assessment (IA) framework was utilized to analyze socio-economic, [...] Read more.

This paper is one of three synthesis documents produced via an integrated assessment (IA) that aims to increase understanding of artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) in Ghana. Given the complexities surrounding ASGM, an integrated assessment (IA) framework was utilized to analyze socio-economic, health, and environmental data, and co-develop evidence-based responses with stakeholders. This paper focuses on the causes, status, trends, and consequences of ecological issues related to ASGM activity in Ghana. It reviews dozens of studies and thousands of samples to document evidence of heavy metals contamination in ecological media across Ghana. Soil and water mercury concentrations were generally lower than guideline values, but sediment mercury concentrations surpassed guideline values in 64% of samples. Arsenic, cadmium, and lead exceeded guideline values in 67%, 17%, and 24% of water samples, respectively. Other water quality parameters near ASGM sites show impairment, with some samples exceeding guidelines for acidity, turbidity, and nitrates. Additional ASGM-related stressors on environmental quality and ecosystem services include deforestation, land degradation, biodiversity loss, legacy contamination, and potential linkages to climate change. Though more research is needed to further elucidate the long-term impacts of ASGM on the environment, the plausible consequences of ecological damages should guide policies and actions to address the unique challenges posed by ASGM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Assessment of Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) in Ghana)

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13 pages, 869 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Urbanization and Mental Health in China: Linking the 2010 Population Census with a Cross-Sectional Survey

by Juan Chen^1,*, Shuo Chen¹ and Pierre F. Landry²

¹ Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Hum, Kowloon, Hong Kong

² Global China Studies, New York University Shanghai, 1555 Century Ave, Pudong, Shanghai 200122, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9012-9024; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809012 - 31 Jul 2015

Cited by 61 | Viewed by 10772

Abstract

Along with the rapid urbanization in China, the state of mental health also receives growing attention. Empirical measures, however, have not been developed to assess the impact of urbanization on mental health and the dramatic spatial variations. Innovatively linking the 2010 Chinese Population [...] Read more.

Along with the rapid urbanization in China, the state of mental health also receives growing attention. Empirical measures, however, have not been developed to assess the impact of urbanization on mental health and the dramatic spatial variations. Innovatively linking the 2010 Chinese Population Census with a 2011 national survey of urban residents, we first assess the impact of urbanization on depressive symptoms measured by the Center of Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) of 1288 survey respondents. We then retrieve county-level characteristics from the 2010 Chinese Population Census that match the individual characteristics in the survey, so as to create a profile of the “average person” for each of the 2869 counties or city districts, and predict a county-specific CES-D score. We use this county-specific CES-D score to compute the CES-D score for the urban population at the prefectural level, and to demonstrate the dramatic spatial variations in urbanization and mental health across China: highly populated cities along the eastern coast such as Shenyang and Shanghai show high CES-D scores, as do cities in western China with high population density and a high proportion of educated ethnic minorities. Full article

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11 pages, 212 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Residence in Proximity of an Iron Foundry and Risk of Lung Cancer in the Municipality of Trieste, Italy, 1995–2009

by Ettore Bidoli^1,*, Fabio Barbone^2,3,4, Paolo Collarile⁵, Francesca Valent⁶, Loris Zanier⁶, Fulvio Daris⁵, Andrea Gini¹, Silvia Birri¹ and Diego Serraino^1,7

¹ SOC Epidemiologia e Biostatistica, IRCCS Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano, 33081 Aviano (PN), Italy

² Istituto di Igiene ed Epidemiologia clinica, DSMB Università degli Studi di Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy

³ DSM Università degli Studi di Trieste, 34100 Trieste, Italy

⁴ SOC Igiene ed Epidemiologia Clinica, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy

⁵ Agenzia Regionale Protezione Ambientale, Friuli Venezia Giulia, 33057 Palmanova (UD), Italy

⁶ Direzione Centrale Salute, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Servizio Regionale di Epidemiologia, 33100 Udine, Italy

⁷ Registro Tumori del Friuli Venezia Giulia, 33081 Aviano (PN), Italy

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9025-9035; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809025 - 31 Jul 2015

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5203

Abstract

We assessed the risk of lung cancer in people living near the iron foundry located within the city of Trieste, Northeastern Italy. Between 1995 and 2009, all incident cases of lung cancer and corresponding population were considered. A deposition model of the foundry-specific [...] Read more.

We assessed the risk of lung cancer in people living near the iron foundry located within the city of Trieste, Northeastern Italy. Between 1995 and 2009, all incident cases of lung cancer and corresponding population were considered. A deposition model of the foundry-specific emissions of SO₂ defined: “nearby”, “urban”, and “outlying” areas. Rate ratios (RRs) and annual percent changes (APCs) were computed. Among nearby residents, significantly increased risks of lung cancer were noted in men below age 75 years (RR = 1.35 vs. urban area; 95% CI: 1.03–1.77). In women, and in men aged 75 years or older, no significant RRs were observed. Conversely, people living in the outlying area appeared to be at lower risk than residents in the urban area- in all age groups, in men (RR = 0.87; 95% CI: 0.78–0.98) and in women (RR = 0.74; 95% CI: 0.62–0.88). Negative statistically significant APC was recorded in men living in urban areas (–2.6%), whereas in women APC significantly increased among those living in the urban area (+2.3%). Multiple interpretations for this observation are plausible, since several factors might have modified and/or confounded the risk of lung cancer, including air pollution from other sources and road traffic, occupational and smoking patterns. Full article

10 pages, 190 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence and Determinants of Anemia and Iron Deficiency in Kuwait

by Sameer Al Zenki^1,*, Husam Alomirah¹, Suad Al Hooti¹, Nawal Al Hamad², Robert T. Jackson³, Aravinda Rao⁴, Nasser Al Jahmah⁴, Ina'am Al Obaid⁴, Jameela Al Ghanim¹, Mona Al Somaie², Sahar Zaghloul⁵ and Amani Al Othman¹

¹ Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, P.O. Box 24885, Safat 13109, Kuwait

² Food and Nutrition Administration, Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 24225, Safat 13103, Kuwait

³ Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20740, USA

⁴ Ministry of Health, Medical Laboratories Services, Sabah Hospital Laboratories, P.O. Box 24225, Safat 13103, Kuwait

⁵ National Nutrition Institute, 16 Kasr El Aini Street, P.O Box11311, Cairo, Egypt

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9036-9045; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809036 - 31 Jul 2015

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 6412

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of anemia and iron deficiency (ID) of a nationally representative sample of the Kuwait population. We also determined if anemia differed by socioeconomic status or by RBC folate and vitamins A and B12 [...] Read more.

The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of anemia and iron deficiency (ID) of a nationally representative sample of the Kuwait population. We also determined if anemia differed by socioeconomic status or by RBC folate and vitamins A and B12 levels. The subjects who were made up of 1830 males and females between the ages of 2 months to 86 years, were divided into the following age groups (0–5, 5–11, 12–14, 15–19, 20–49, ≥50 years). Results showed that the prevalence of anemia was 3% in adult males and 17% in females. The prevalence of ID varied according to age between 4% (≥50 years) and 21% (5–11 years) and 9% (12–14 years) and 23% (15–19 years), respectively, in males and females. The prevalence of anemia and ID was higher in females compared to males. Adults with normal ferritin level, but with low RBC folate and vitamins A and B12 levels had higher prevalence of anemia than those with normal RBC folate and vitamins A and B12 levels. This first nationally representative nutrition and health survey in Kuwait indicated that anemia and ID are prevalent and ID contributes significantly to anemia prevalence. Full article

8 pages, 380 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tobacco-Specific Nitrosamines in Electronic Cigarettes: Comparison between Liquid and Aerosol Levels

by Konstantinos E. Farsalinos^1,2,*

, Gene Gillman³, Konstantinos Poulas² and Vassilis Voudris¹

¹ Department of Cardiology, Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center, Sygrou 356, Kallithea 17674, Greece

² Department of Pharmacy, University of Patras, Rio 26500, Greece

³ Enthalpy Analytical, Inc., 800 Capitola Drive, Suite 1, NC 27713, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9046-9053; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809046 - 31 Jul 2015

Cited by 74 | Viewed by 20337

Abstract

Introduction: Although electronic cigarette (EC) liquids contain low levels of tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs), studies evaluating the levels emitted to the aerosol are scarce. The purpose of this study was to compare the levels of TSNAs between liquids and generated aerosol. Methods: [...] Read more.

Introduction: Although electronic cigarette (EC) liquids contain low levels of tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs), studies evaluating the levels emitted to the aerosol are scarce. The purpose of this study was to compare the levels of TSNAs between liquids and generated aerosol. Methods: Three EC liquids were obtained from the market. An additional (spiked) sample was prepared by adding known amounts of standard TSNAs solutions to one of the obtained liquids. N-nitrosonornicotine (NNN), N-nitrosoanatabine (NAT), N-nitrosoanabasine (NAB) and 4-(methylnitrosamino)1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) were measured. Three 100-puff sets from each liquid were trapped in filter pads and were subsequently analyzed for the presence of TSNAs. The expected levels of TSNAs (calculated based on the liquid consumption) were compared with the measured levels in the aerosol. Results: Only NAB was found at trace levels in two commercial liquids (1.2 and 2.3 ng/g), while the third contained 1.5 ng/g NAB and 7.7 ng/g NNN. The 100-puff sets resulted in 336–515 mg liquid consumption, with no TSNAs being detected in the aerosol. The spiked sample contained 42.0–53.9 ng/g of each of the TSNAs. All TSNAs were detected in the aerosol with the measured levels being statistically similar to the expected amounts. A significant correlation between expected and measured levels of TSNAs in the aerosol was found (r = 0.83, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The findings of this study show that exposure of EC users to TSNAs can be accurately assessed based on the levels present in the liquid, without the need to analyze the aerosol. Full article

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14 pages, 435 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimation of the Biological Half-Life of Methylmercury Using a Population Toxicokinetic Model

by Seongil Jo^1,†, Hae Dong Woo^1,†, Ho-Jang Kwon², Se-Young Oh³, Jung-Duck Park⁴, Young-Seoub Hong⁵, Heesoo Pyo⁶, Kyung Su Park⁷, Mina Ha²

, Ho Kim⁸

, Seok-Joon Sohn⁹, Yu-Mi Kim⁵, Ji-Ae Lim², Sang-Ah Lee¹⁰, Sang-Yong Eom¹¹, Byoung-Gwon Kim⁵, Kyoung-Mu Lee^12,†, Jong-Hyeon Lee¹³, Myung Sil Hwang¹⁴ and Jeongseon Kim^1,*

¹ Molecular Epidemiology Branch, National Cancer Center, Goyang 410-769, Korea

² Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Korea

³ Department of Food and Nutrition, College of Human Ecology, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Korea

⁴ Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 156-756, Korea

⁵ Department of Preventive Medicine and Heavy Metal Exposure Environmental Health Center, Dong-A University, Busan 602-714, Korea

⁶ Molecular Recognition Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 130-722, Korea

⁷ Advanced Analysis Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 130-722, Korea

⁸ Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public health, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-742, Korea

⁹ Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 501-746, Korea

¹⁰ Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 200-701, Korea

¹¹ Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 362-763, Korea

¹² Department of Environmental Health, Korea National Open University, Seoul 110-791, Korea

¹³ Institute of Environmental Safety and Protection, NeoEnBiz Co., Bucheon 420-130, Korea

¹⁴ Food Safety Risk Assessment Division, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Cheongwon 363-700, Korea

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9054-9067; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809054 - 31 Jul 2015

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 7490

Abstract

Methylmercury is well known for causing adverse health effects in the brain and nervous system. Estimating the elimination constant derived from the biological half-life of methylmercury in the blood or hair is an important part of calculating guidelines for methylmercury intake. Thus, this [...] Read more.

Methylmercury is well known for causing adverse health effects in the brain and nervous system. Estimating the elimination constant derived from the biological half-life of methylmercury in the blood or hair is an important part of calculating guidelines for methylmercury intake. Thus, this study was conducted to estimate the biological half-life of methylmercury in Korean adults. We used a one-compartment model with a direct relationship between methylmercury concentrations in the blood and daily dietary intake of methylmercury. We quantified the between-person variability of the methylmercury half-life in the population, and informative priors were used to estimate the parameters in the model. The population half-life of methylmercury was estimated to be 80.2 ± 8.6 days. The population mean of the methylmercury half-life was 81.6 ± 8.4 days for men and 78.9 ± 8.6 days for women. The standard deviation of the half-life was estimated at 25.0 ± 8.6 days. Using the direct relationship between methylmercury concentrations in blood and methylmercury intake, the biological half-life in this study was estimated to be longer than indicated by the earlier studies that have been used to set guideline values. Full article

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21 pages, 1516 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Short-Term Effect of Ambient Temperature and the Risk of Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Hui Lian, Yanping Ruan, Ruijuan Liang, Xiaole Liu and Zhongjie Fan^*

Department of Cardiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9068-9088; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809068 - 31 Jul 2015

Cited by 131 | Viewed by 10696

Abstract

Background and Purpose: The relationship between stroke and short-term temperature changes remains controversial. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the association between stroke and both high and low temperatures, and health assessment. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, China [...] Read more.

Background and Purpose: The relationship between stroke and short-term temperature changes remains controversial. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the association between stroke and both high and low temperatures, and health assessment. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Wanfang Data up to 14 September 2014. Study selection, quality assessment, and author-contractions were steps before data extraction. We converted all estimates effects into relative risk (RR) per 1 °C increase/decrease in temperature from 75th to 99th or 25th to 1st percentiles, then conducted meta-analyses to combine the ultimate RRs, and assessed health impact among the population. Results: 20 articles were included in the final analysis. The overall analysis showed a positive relationship between 1 °C change and the occurrence of major adverse cerebrovascular events (MACBE), 1.1% (95% confidence intervals (CI), 0.6 to 1.7) and 1.2% (95% CI, 0.8 to 1.6) increase for hot and cold effects separately. The same trends can be found in both effects of mortality and the cold effect for morbidity. Hot temperature acted as a protective factor of hemorrhage stroke (HS), −1.9% (95% CI, −2.8 to −0.9), however, it acted as a risk factor for ischemic stroke (IS), 1.2% (95% CI, 0.7 to 1.8). Conclusion: Short-term changes of both low and high temperature had statistically significant impacts on MACBE. Full article

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13 pages, 1529 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Meteorological Conditions on PM_2.5 Concentrations in Nagasaki, Japan

by Jianhua Wang and Susumu Ogawa^*

Space Engineering and Planning Laboratory, Graduate school of Engineering, Nagasaki University, 1-14 Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9089-9101; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809089 - 3 Aug 2015

Cited by 313 | Viewed by 12663

Abstract

The fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) problem has attracted much scientific and public attention, due to its effects on visibility, human health, and global climate. There are three factors that have important effect on PM_2.5 mass concentration: domestic pollutant emission sources, [...] Read more.

The fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) problem has attracted much scientific and public attention, due to its effects on visibility, human health, and global climate. There are three factors that have important effect on PM_2.5 mass concentration: domestic pollutant emission sources, external sources outside of the country, and the meteorological conditions. Nagasaki is a coastal prefecture located at the westernmost part of Japan, which is an ideal location to study pollutants from long range transport and correlation between PM_2.5 and meteorological conditions. In this paper, PM_2.5 concentration data and meteorological data were obtained during 1 January 2013~31 December 2013. The spatial distribution depicts that the western part of the study area has the most serious PM_2.5 pollution. The correlation analysis results between PM_2.5 concentration and meteorological data showed that temperature had a negative, and precipitation had a positive, correlation with PM_2.5. There was a threshold in the correlations between humidity and wind speed and PM_2.5. The correlation was positive or negative depending on the meteorological variable values, if these were lower or higher than the threshold. From the relationship with wind direction, it can be depicted that the west wind might bring the most pollutants to Nagasaki. Full article

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17 pages, 892 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Melanoma in the Italian Population and Regional Environmental Influences: A National Retrospective Survey on 2001–2008 Hospitalization Records

by Prisco Piscitelli^1,*, Cosimo Neglia², Andrea Falco¹, Matteo Rivezzi¹, Nadia Agnello², Alberto Argentiero², Giovanna Chitano², Chiara Distante², Giulia Della Rosa², Giorgia Vinci³, Antonella De Donno⁴

, Alessandro Distante² and Antonella Romanini⁵

¹ Southern Italy Hospital Institute, IOS/Coleman Ltd., Naples 80100, Italy

² Euro Mediterranean Biomedical Scientific Institute, Brindisi 72100, Italy

³ Department of Medical Sciences, Federico II University, Naples 80132, Italy

⁴ Department of Science, Biotechnology and Environment (DISTEBA), University of Salento, Lecce 73100, Italy

⁵ Melanoma Unit, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa 56126, Italy

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9102-9118; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809102 - 5 Aug 2015

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5491

Abstract

Objective: To assess the burden of regional environmental factors influencing the incidence of Melanoma in the Italian population and overcome the problem of partial population coverage by local cancer registries and thematic archives. Methods: We analyzed the Italian national hospitalization records [...] Read more.

Objective: To assess the burden of regional environmental factors influencing the incidence of Melanoma in the Italian population and overcome the problem of partial population coverage by local cancer registries and thematic archives. Methods: We analyzed the Italian national hospitalization records from 2001 to 2008 provided by the Ministry of Health, excluding hospital re-admissions of the same patients, in order to assess the occurrence of Melanoma over a 8-year period. Data were presented by age groups (absolute number of cases from 20 to ≥80 years old) and per Region (rates per 100,000 inhabitants) for each year. Results: The overall number of new hospitalizations due to malignant Melanoma increased by 16.8% from 2001 (n = 4846) to 2008 (n = 5823), with the rate per 100,000 inhabitants passing from 10.5 to almost 12.0 at a national level. The majority of new diagnoses of malignant Melanoma was observed in two age groups: 61–70 years old (from 979 in 2001 up to 2109 in 2008, corresponding to 15.1 and 18.1 new cases per 100,000 inhabitants, respectively) and 71–80 years old (from 954 in 2001 up to 1141 in 2008, corresponding to 19.5 and 21.8 new cases per 100,000 inhabitants, respectively). The number of hospitalizations due to Melanoma increased in all age groups with the only exception of the youngest patients aged 20–30 years old. The highest increases over the 8-year period were observed in people aged ≥81 years old (+34%), 61–70 years old (+20%) and surprisingly in the age group 31–40 years old (+17%). Southern Regions showed lower hospitalization rates compared to Northern Italy and Region Lazio. The highest increases between 2001 and 2008 were observed in Trentino/Alto Adige, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Valla d’Aosta and Veneto Region. Conclusions: Hospitalizations due to malignant Melanoma in Italy seem to be influenced by environmental or population-related factors showing a decreasing incidence rate from the Northern to Southern Regions. Full article

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12 pages, 678 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationship between Acute Phase of Chronic Periodontitis and Meteorological Factors in the Maintenance Phase of Periodontal Treatment: A Pilot Study

by Noriko Takeuchi^1,*, Daisuke Ekuni¹

, Takaaki Tomofuji^1,2 and Manabu Morita¹

¹ Departments of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan

² Advanced Research Center for Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, Okayama University Dental School, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9119-9130; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809119 - 5 Aug 2015

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4908

Abstract

The acute phase of chronic periodontitis may occur even in patients during supportive periodontal therapy. However, the details are not fully understood. Since the natural environment, including meteorology affects human health, we hypothesized that weather conditions may affect occurrence of acute phase of [...] Read more.

The acute phase of chronic periodontitis may occur even in patients during supportive periodontal therapy. However, the details are not fully understood. Since the natural environment, including meteorology affects human health, we hypothesized that weather conditions may affect occurrence of acute phase of chronic periodontitis. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between weather conditions and acute phase of chronic periodontitis in patients under supportive periodontal therapy. Patients who were diagnosed with acute phase of chronic periodontitis under supportive periodontal therapy during 2011–2013 were selected for this study. We performed oral examinations and collected questionnaires and meteorological data. Of 369 patients who experienced acute phase of chronic periodontitis, 153 had acute phase of chronic periodontitis without direct-triggered episodes. When using the autoregressive integrated moving average model of time-series analysis, the independent covariant of maximum hourly range of barometric pressure, maximum hourly range of temperature, and maximum daily wind speed were significantly associated with occurrence of acute phase of chronic periodontitis (p < 0.05), and 3.1% of the variations in these occurrence over the study period were explained by these factors. Meteorological variables may predict occurrence of acute phase of chronic periodontitis. Full article

10 pages, 663 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Parity, Age at First Birth, and Risk of Death from Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: A Population-Based Cohort Study in Taiwan

by Brian K. Chen¹ and Chun-Yuh Yang^2,*

¹ Department of Health Services Policy and Management, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29201, USA

² Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, No. 100 Shih-Chuan 1st RD, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9131-9140; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809131 - 5 Aug 2015

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4400

Abstract

We undertook this study to examine whether there exists an association between parity and age at first birth and risk of death from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL). Our sample included a total of 1,292,462 women who had a first and singleton childbirth between 1 [...] Read more.

We undertook this study to examine whether there exists an association between parity and age at first birth and risk of death from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL). Our sample included a total of 1,292,462 women who had a first and singleton childbirth between 1 January 1978 and 31 December 1987. We followed each subject from their first childbirth to 31 December 2009, and determined their vital status by merging natality data with Taiwan’s national death certificate database. Hazard ratios (HR) of death from NHL associated with parity and age at first birth were estimated using Cox proportional hazard regression models. In all, 412 NHL deaths were recorded during 34,980,246 person-years of follow-up. NHL mortality rate was 1.18 cases per 100,000 person-years. Older age at first birth (>23 vs. ≤23 years) was linked to an increased risk of death from NHL (adjusted HR = 1.41; 95% CI = 1.13–1.75). Controlling for age at first birth, the adjusted HR were 0.74 (95% CI = 0.55–0.98) for women with 2 births, and 0.71 (95% CI = 0.53–0.95) for women with 3 births or more, respectively, when compared with women with only 1 birth. A statistically significant downward trend in the adjusted HR for NHL death was detected with increasing parity (p for trend = 0.05). The HR of death from NHL was decreased by 7% (HR = 0.93; 95% CI = 0.87–0.99) for each additional parity. Our findings are consistent with reproductive factors (parity and early age at first birth) conferring a protective effect against the risk of NHL death. Full article

13 pages, 1041 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Brand Cigarillos: Low Price but High Particulate Matter Levels—Is Their Favorable Taxation in the European Union Justified?

by Julia Wasel, Michael Boll, Michaela Schulze, Daniel Mueller, Matthias Bundschuh, David A. Groneberg and Alexander Gerber^*

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9141-9153; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809141 - 6 Aug 2015

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 7183

Abstract

Background: Second hand smoke (ETS)-associated particulate matter (PM) contributes considerably to indoor air contamination and constitutes a health risk for passive smokers. Easy to measure, PM is a useful parameter to estimate the dosage of ETS that passive smokers are exposed to. [...] Read more.

Background: Second hand smoke (ETS)-associated particulate matter (PM) contributes considerably to indoor air contamination and constitutes a health risk for passive smokers. Easy to measure, PM is a useful parameter to estimate the dosage of ETS that passive smokers are exposed to. Apart from its suitability as a surrogate parameter for ETS-exposure, PM itself affects human morbidity and mortality in a dose-dependent manner. We think that ETS-associated PM should be considered an independent hazard factor, separately from the many other known harmful compounds of ETS. We believe that brand-specific and tobacco-product-specific differences in the release of PM matter and that these differences are of public interest. Methods: To generate ETS of cigarettes and cigarillos as standardized and reproducible as possible, an automatic second hand smoke emitter (AETSE) was developed and placed in a glass chamber. L&M cigarettes (“without additives”, “red label”, “blue label”), L&M filtered cigarillos (“red”) and 3R4F standard research cigarettes (as reference) were smoked automatically according to a self-developed, standardized protocol until the tobacco product was smoked down to 8 mm distance from the tipping paper of the filter. Results: Mean concentration (Cmean) and area under the curve (AUC) in a plot of PM_2.5 against time were measured, and compared. CmeanPM_2.5 were found to be 518 μg/m³ for 3R4F cigarettes, 576 μg/m³ for L&M “without additives” (“red”), 448 μg/m³ for L&M “blue label”, 547 μg/m³ for L&M “red label”, and 755 μg/m³ for L&M filtered cigarillos (“red”). AUCPM2.5-values were 208,214 μg/m³·s for 3R4F reference cigarettes, 204,629 μg/m³·s for L&M “without additives” (“red”), 152,718 μg/m³·s for L&M “blue label”, 238,098 μg/m³·s for L&M “red label” and 796,909 μg/m³·s for L&M filtered cigarillos (“red”). Conclusion: Considering the large and significant differences in particulate matter emissions between cigarettes and cigarillos, we think that a favorable taxation of cigarillos is not justifiable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tobacco Control 2015)

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15 pages, 705 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between the Hygiene Index Values of Live Fresh Aquatic Products and Food-Borne Diarrhea in the Population of the Ningbo Area in China

by Lijun Zhang^1,2, Lu Lu², Liye Shu², Jianjun Chen², Baobo Zou¹, Qi Zhou¹, Yuanliang Gu¹, Jinshun Zhao^1,*

and Xialu Lin^1,3,*

¹ Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathological and Physiological Technology, Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China

² Jiangdong Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Ningbo 315040, China

³ Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases of Ministry of Health, Health Science Center, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9154-9168; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809154 - 6 Aug 2015

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5346

Abstract

To investigate the association of the hygiene index values of live fresh aquatic products and food-borne diarrhea in the population of the Ningbo area in China. Volatile basic nitrogen (VBN), histamine (HIS), indole, tetrodotoxin (TTX), and paralytic, neurotoxic, amnesic and diarrhetic shellfish poisons [...] Read more.

To investigate the association of the hygiene index values of live fresh aquatic products and food-borne diarrhea in the population of the Ningbo area in China. Volatile basic nitrogen (VBN), histamine (HIS), indole, tetrodotoxin (TTX), and paralytic, neurotoxic, amnesic and diarrhetic shellfish poisons (PSP, NSP, ASP, and DSP, respectively) in the samples of live fresh aquatic products and food-borne diarrhea cases in six studied districts were analyzed. Results indicate that the incidence rate of food-borne diarrhea is related to the hygiene index values. Aside from VBN, the main risk factors related to food-borne diarrhea in edible aquatic products include DSP (in marine fish, shrimp, and other shellfishes), NSP, and ASP (in marine shrimp and crab). Hygiene index values among different species were significantly different. No significant difference in the monitoring index values was found among the six different studied districts. The reported cases of food-borne diarrhea were positively associated with VBN and DSP in aquatic products in Haishu, Jiangbei, Zhenhai, and Beilun, as well as VBN and NSP in aquatic products in Jiangdong and Yinzhou. In conclusion, VBN, DSP, NSP, and ASP are important risk factors for the occurring of food-borne diarrhea in the population of the Ningbo area in China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Safety)

12 pages, 949 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship of Policymaking and Networking Characteristics among Leaders of Large Urban Health Departments

by Jonathon P. Leider^1,*, Brian C. Castrucci¹, Jenine K. Harris² and Shelley Hearne³

¹ Beaumont Foundation, 7501 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 1310E Bethesda, Maryland, MD 20814, USA

² Brown School, Center for Public Health Systems Science, Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, MO 63130, USA

³ Director, Big Cities Health Coalition, National Association of County and City Health Officials, 1100 17th Street, NW, Seventh Floor, Washington, DC 20036, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9169-9180; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809169 - 6 Aug 2015

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5006

Abstract

Background: The relationship between policy networks and policy development among local health departments (LHDs) is a growing area of interest to public health practitioners and researchers alike. In this study, we examine policy activity and ties between public health leadership across large urban [...] Read more.

Background: The relationship between policy networks and policy development among local health departments (LHDs) is a growing area of interest to public health practitioners and researchers alike. In this study, we examine policy activity and ties between public health leadership across large urban health departments. Methods: This study uses data from a national profile of local health departments as well as responses from a survey sent to three staff members (local health official, chief of policy, chief science officer) in each of 16 urban health departments in the United States. Network questions related to frequency of contact with health department personnel in other cities. Using exponential random graph models, network density and centrality were examined, as were patterns of communication among those working on several policy areas using exponential random graph models. Results: All 16 LHDs were active in communicating about chronic disease as well as about use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs (ATOD). Connectedness was highest among local health officials (density = .55), and slightly lower for chief science officers (d = .33) and chiefs of policy (d = .29). After accounting for organizational characteristics, policy homophily (i.e., when two network members match on a single characteristic) and tenure were the most significant predictors of formation of network ties. Conclusion: Networking across health departments has the potential for accelerating the adoption of public health policies. This study suggests similar policy interests and formation of connections among senior leadership can potentially drive greater connectedness among other staff. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Network Analysis and Public Health)

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18 pages, 988 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis on Two Typical Landslide Hazard Phenomena in The Wenchuan Earthquake by Field Investigations and Shaking Table Tests

by Changwei Yang^1,2, Jianjing Zhang^1,*, Feicheng Liu¹, Junwei Bi¹ and Zhang Jun³

¹ School of Civil Engineering, Key of Transportation Tnuuel Engineering, Ministry of Education, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China

² Guangxi Key Laboratory of Disaster Prevention and Structural Safety, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China

³ Shanxi Transportation Research Institute, Taiyuan 030006, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9181-9198; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809181 - 6 Aug 2015

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5919

Abstract

Based on our field investigations of landslide hazards in the Wenchuan earthquake, some findings can be reported: (1) the multi-aspect terrain facing empty isolated mountains and thin ridges reacted intensely to the earthquake and was seriously damaged; (2) the slope angles of most [...] Read more.

Based on our field investigations of landslide hazards in the Wenchuan earthquake, some findings can be reported: (1) the multi-aspect terrain facing empty isolated mountains and thin ridges reacted intensely to the earthquake and was seriously damaged; (2) the slope angles of most landslides was larger than 45°. Considering the above disaster phenomena, the reasons are analyzed based on shaking table tests of one-sided, two-sided and four-sided slopes. The analysis results show that: (1) the amplifications of the peak accelerations of four-sided slopes is stronger than that of the two-sided slopes, while that of the one-sided slope is the weakest, which can indirectly explain the phenomena that the damage is most serious; (2) the amplifications of the peak accelerations gradually increase as the slope angles increase, and there are two inflection points which are the point where the slope angle is 45° and where the slope angle is 50°, respectively, which can explain the seismic phenomenon whereby landslide hazards mainly occur on the slopes whose slope angle is bigger than 45°. The amplification along the slope strike direction is basically consistent, and the step is smooth. Full article

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19 pages, 887 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Additional Burden of Diseases Associated with Cadmium Exposure: A Case Study of Cadmium Contaminated Rice Fields in Mae Sot District, Tak Province, Thailand

by Nisarat Songprasert¹, Thitiporn Sukaew¹, Khanitta Kusreesakul¹, Witaya Swaddiwudhipong², Chantana Padungtod³ and Kanitta Bundhamcharoen^1,*

¹ International Health Policy Program, Ministry of Public Health, Nonthaburi 11000, Thailand

² Department of Community and Social Medicine, Mae Sot General Hospital, Tak 63110, Thailand

³ Bureau of Occupational and Environmental Disease, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Nonthaburi 11000, Thailand

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9199-9217; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809199 - 7 Aug 2015

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 6198

Abstract

The cadmium (Cd) contaminated rice fields in Mae Sot District, Tak Province, Thailand has been one of the major environmental problems in Thailand for the last 10 years. We used disability adjusted life years (DALYs) to estimate the burden of disease attributable to [...] Read more.

The cadmium (Cd) contaminated rice fields in Mae Sot District, Tak Province, Thailand has been one of the major environmental problems in Thailand for the last 10 years. We used disability adjusted life years (DALYs) to estimate the burden of disease attributable to Cd in terms of additional DALYs of Mae Sot residents. Cd exposure data included Cd and β₂–microglobulin (β₂-MG) in urine (as an internal exposure dose) and estimated cadmium daily intake (as an external exposure dose). Compared to the general Thai population, Mae Sot residents gained 10%–86% DALYs from nephrosis/nephritis, heart diseases, osteoporosis and cancer depending on their Cd exposure type and exposure level. The results for urinary Cd and dietary Cd intake varied according to the studies used for risk estimation. The ceiling effect was observed in results using dietary Cd intake because of the high Cd content in rice grown in the Mae Sot area. The results from β₂-MG were more robust with additional DALYs ranging from 36%–86% for heart failure, cerebral infraction, and nephrosis/nephritis. Additional DALYs is a useful approach for assessing the magnitude of environmental Cd exposure. The Mae Sot population lost more healthy life compared to populations living in a non- or less Cd polluted area. This method should be applicable to various types of environmental contamination problems if exposure assessment information is available. Full article

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19 pages, 575 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Testis-Specific Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH-C₄) in Skeletal Muscle Enhances Apika’s Sprint-Running Capacity in Hypoxic Environment

by Yang Wang

, Lian Wei, Dengbang Wei^*, Xiao Li, Lina Xu and Linna Wei

Research Center for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9218-9236; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809218 - 7 Aug 2015

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 7143

Abstract

LDH-C₄ is a lactate dehydrogenase that catalyzes the conversion of pyruvate to lactate. In mammals, ldh-c was originally thought to be expressed only in testis and spermatozoa. Plateau pika (Ochotona curzoniae), which belongs to the genus Ochotona of the Ochotonidea [...] Read more.

LDH-C₄ is a lactate dehydrogenase that catalyzes the conversion of pyruvate to lactate. In mammals, ldh-c was originally thought to be expressed only in testis and spermatozoa. Plateau pika (Ochotona curzoniae), which belongs to the genus Ochotona of the Ochotonidea family, is a hypoxia tolerant mammal living 3000–5000 m above sea level on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, an environment which is strongly hypoxic. Ldh-c is expressed not only in testis and sperm but also in somatic tissues of plateau pika. In this study, the effects of N-propyl oxamate and N-isopropyl oxamate on LDH isozyme kinetics were compared to screens for a selective inhibitor of LDH-C₄. To reveal the role and physiological mechanism of LDH-C₄ in skeletal muscle of plateau pika, we investigated the effect of N-isopropyl oxamate on the pika exercise tolerance as well as the physiological mechanism. Our results show that Ki of N-propyl oxamate and N-isopropyl oxamate for LDH-A₄, LDH-B₄, and LDH-C₄ were 0.094 mmol/L and 0.462 mmol/L, 0.119 mmol/L and 0.248 mmol/L, and 0.015 mmol/L and 0.013 mmol/L, respectively. N-isopropyl oxamate is a powerful selective inhibitor of plateau pika LDH-C₄. In our exercise tolerance experiment, groups treated with inhibitors had significantly lower swimming times than the uninhibited control group. The inhibition rates of LDH, LD, and ATP were 37.12%, 66.27%, and 32.42%, respectively. Our results suggested that ldh-c is expressed in the skeletal muscle of plateau pika, and at least 32.42% of ATP in the skeletal muscle is catalyzed by LDH-C₄ by anaerobic glycolysis. This suggests that pika has reduced dependence on oxygen and enhanced adaptation to hypoxic environment due to increased anaerobic glycolysis by LDH-C₄ in skeletal muscle. LDH-C₄ in plateau pika plays the crucial role in anaerobic glycolysis and generates ATP rapidly since this is the role of LDH-A₄ in most species on plain land, which provide evidence that the native humans and animals in Qinghai-Tibet plateau can adapt to the hypoxia environment. Full article

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11 pages, 691 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Doctor-Shopping Behaviors among Traditional Chinese Medicine Users in Taiwan

by Ming-Hwai Lin^1,2, Hsiao-Ting Chang^1,2, Chun-Yi Tu^2,3, Tzeng-Ji Chen^1,2,*

and Shinn-Jang Hwang^1,2

¹ Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No. 201, Sec. 2, Shi-Pai Road, Taipei 112, Taiwan

² School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, No. 155, Sec. 2, Linong Street, Taipei 112, Taiwan

³ Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taoyuan branch, No. 100, Sec. 3, Cheng-Kung Road, Tao-Yuan 330, Taiwan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9237-9247; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809237 - 7 Aug 2015

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5041

Abstract

Doctor-shopping has caused an increase in medical expense, potential to receive duplicate medications, and suffer adverse drug reactions. We carried out a population-based retrospective study aimed at examining the user patterns of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) ambulatory care in Taiwan. We retrieved complete [...] Read more.

Doctor-shopping has caused an increase in medical expense, potential to receive duplicate medications, and suffer adverse drug reactions. We carried out a population-based retrospective study aimed at examining the user patterns of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) ambulatory care in Taiwan. We retrieved complete TCM ambulatory visit datasets for the year 2007 from the National Health Insurance database in Taiwan. We defined the patients whose distribution of TCM physician numbers scored more than 97.5 percent (more than, or equal to, five TCM physicians) within one year as TCM doctor-shoppers. In total, 6,596,814 subjects (28.9%) paid TCM visits during that year. All 177,728 subjects (2.69%) who visited more than five (including) TCM physicians were classified as TCM shoppers. The most prevalent diagnostic grouping was upper respiratory infections (44.7%) and sprains and strains (44.0%). Men had a lower odds ratio (OR) among TCM shoppers than women (OR = 0.94, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.93–0.96). Younger people were less likely to be TCM shoppers than other people were. The ORs of TCM shoppers were higher among veterans and low-income patients (OR = 1.29 (1.23–1.35), and 1.33 (1.27–1.41)). In conclusion, health education on the potential of drug interactions and iatrogenic health risks incurred from doctor-shopping should be addressed to those high-risk patients. Full article

16 pages, 746 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Variability and Stability in Daily Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity among 10 Year Old Children

by Sara Pereira¹

, Thayse Natacha Gomes¹

, Alessandra Borges¹, Daniel Santos¹, Michele Souza¹, Fernanda K. Dos Santos², Raquel N. Chaves³, Peter T. Katzmarzyk⁴ and José A. R. Maia^1,*

¹ CIFI2D, Faculty of Sport, University of Porto, Porto 4099-002, Portugal

² Department of Physical Education and Sports Science, Academic Center of Vitoria, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife 55608-680, Brazil

³ Federal University of Technology—Paraná (UTFPR), Campus Curitiba, Curitiba 80230-901, Brazil

⁴ Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University System, Baton Rouge, LA 70220, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9248-9263; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809248 - 7 Aug 2015

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6447

Abstract

Day-to-day variability and stability of children’s physical activity levels across days of the week are not well understood. Our aims were to examine the day-to-day variability of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), to determine factors influencing the day-to-day variability of MVPA and to estimate [...] Read more.

Day-to-day variability and stability of children’s physical activity levels across days of the week are not well understood. Our aims were to examine the day-to-day variability of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), to determine factors influencing the day-to-day variability of MVPA and to estimate stability of MVPA in children. The sample comprises 686 Portuguese children (10 years of age). MVPA was assessed with an accelerometer, and BMI was computed from measured height and weight. Daily changes in MVPA and their correlates (gender, BMI, and maturity) were modeled with a multilevel approach, and tracking was calculated using Foulkes & Davies γ. A total of 51.3% of boys and 26.2% of girls achieved 60 min/day of MVPA on average. Daily MVPA was lower during the weekend (23.6% of boys and 13.6% of girls comply with the recommended 60 min/day of MVPA) compared to weekdays (60.8% and 35.4%, boys and girls, respectively). Normal weight children were more active than obese children and no effect was found for biological maturation. Tracking is low in both boys (γ = 0.59 ± 0.01) and girls (γ = 0.56 ± 0.01). Children’s MVPA levels during a week are highly unstable. In summary, boys are more active than girls, maturation does not affect their MVPA, and obese children are less likely to meet 60 min/day of MVPA. These results highlight the importance of providing opportunities for increasing children’s daily MVPA on all days of week, especially on the weekend. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Behaviors and Public Health)

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1 pages, 612 KiB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Dermal Exposure Assessment to Pesticides in Farming Systems in Developing Countries: Comparison of Models. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12, 4670–4696

by Camilo Lesmes-Fabian

Centro de Investigaciones de Ingenierias "Alberto Magno" (CIIAM), Universidad Santo Tomas Seccional Tunja, Sede Campus, Av. Universitaria Calle 48, No. 1-235 Este, Codigo 15001, Tunja, Boyaca, Colombia

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9264; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809264 - 7 Aug 2015

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3658

Abstract

We wish to make the following changes to the published article [1], agreed upon by all authors. Claudia R. Binder has withdrawn her co-authorship. The corrected author list should therefore read: Camilo Lesmes-Fabian.[...] Full article

17 pages, 2515 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Wrist Hypothermia Related to Continuous Work with a Computer Mouse: A Digital Infrared Imaging Pilot Study

by Jelena Reste^*, Tija Zvagule, Natalja Kurjane, Zanna Martinsone, Inese Martinsone, Anita Seile and Ivars Vanadzins

Institute for Occupational Safety and Environmental Health, Riga Stradins University, Dzirciema Street 16, Riga LV 1007, Latvia

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9265-9281; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809265 - 7 Aug 2015

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5736

Abstract

Computer work is characterized by sedentary static workload with low-intensity energy metabolism. The aim of our study was to evaluate the dynamics of skin surface temperature in the hand during prolonged computer mouse work under different ergonomic setups. Digital infrared imaging of the [...] Read more.

Computer work is characterized by sedentary static workload with low-intensity energy metabolism. The aim of our study was to evaluate the dynamics of skin surface temperature in the hand during prolonged computer mouse work under different ergonomic setups. Digital infrared imaging of the right forearm and wrist was performed during three hours of continuous computer work (measured at the start and every 15 minutes thereafter) in a laboratory with controlled ambient conditions. Four people participated in the study. Three different ergonomic computer mouse setups were tested on three different days (horizontal computer mouse without mouse pad; horizontal computer mouse with mouse pad and padded wrist support; vertical computer mouse without mouse pad). The study revealed a significantly strong negative correlation between the temperature of the dorsal surface of the wrist and time spent working with a computer mouse. Hand skin temperature decreased markedly after one hour of continuous computer mouse work. Vertical computer mouse work preserved more stable and higher temperatures of the wrist (>30 °C), while continuous use of a horizontal mouse for more than two hours caused an extremely low temperature (<28 °C) in distal parts of the hand. The preliminary observational findings indicate the significant effect of the duration and ergonomics of computer mouse work on the development of hand hypothermia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indoor activities and health risks/protection)

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16 pages, 14418 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticle Penetration into the Skin and Effects on HaCaT Cells

by Matteo Crosera^1,2, Andrea Prodi^1,†, Marcella Mauro^1,†, Marco Pelin³

, Chiara Florio³, Francesca Bellomo¹, Gianpiero Adami², Pietro Apostoli⁴, Giuseppe De Palma⁴, Massimo Bovenzi¹, Marco Campanini⁵ and Francesca Larese Filon^1,*

¹ Clinical Unit of Occupational Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Trieste, Via della Pietà 19, Trieste 34129, Italy

² Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Trieste, Via Giorgeri 1, Trieste 34127, Italy

³ Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Via L. Giorgeri 7/9, Trieste 34127, Italy

⁴ Dipartimento di Specialità Medico Chirurgiche, Scienze Radiologiche, Sanità Pubblica, University of Brescia, Piazza del Mercato 15, Brescia 25121, Italy

⁵ IMEM-CNR Institute, Parco Area delle Scienze 37/A, Parma 43124, Italy

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9282-9297; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809282 - 7 Aug 2015

Cited by 104 | Viewed by 10972

Abstract

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂NPs) suspensions (concentration 1.0 g/L) in synthetic sweat solution were applied on Franz cells for 24 h using intact and needle-abraded human skin. Titanium content into skin and receiving phases was determined. Cytotoxicity (MTT, AlamarBlue^® and propidium [...] Read more.

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂NPs) suspensions (concentration 1.0 g/L) in synthetic sweat solution were applied on Franz cells for 24 h using intact and needle-abraded human skin. Titanium content into skin and receiving phases was determined. Cytotoxicity (MTT, AlamarBlue^® and propidium iodide, PI, uptake assays) was evaluated on HaCat keratinocytes after 24 h, 48 h, and seven days of exposure. After 24 h of exposure, no titanium was detectable in receiving solutions for both intact and damaged skin. Titanium was found in the epidermal layer after 24 h of exposure (0.47 ± 0.33 μg/cm²) while in the dermal layer, the concentration was below the limit of detection. Damaged skin, in its whole, has shown a similar concentration (0.53 ± 0.26 μg/cm²). Cytotoxicity studies on HaCaT cells demonstrated that TiO₂NPs induced cytotoxic effects only at very high concentrations, reducing cell viability after seven days of exposure with EC₅₀s of 8.8 × 10⁻⁴ M (MTT assay), 3.8 × 10⁻⁵ M (AlamarBlue^® assay), and 7.6 × 10⁻⁴ M (PI uptake, index of a necrotic cell death). Our study demonstrated that TiO₂NPs cannot permeate intact and damaged skin and can be found only in the stratum corneum and epidermis. Moreover, the low cytotoxic effect observed on human HaCaT keratinocytes suggests that these nano-compounds have a potential toxic effect at the skin level only after long-term exposure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Fate and Effect of Nanoparticles and Nanomaterials)

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16 pages, 454 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Altered Expression of Genes in Signaling Pathways Regulating Proliferation of Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells in Mice with Subchronic Benzene Exposure

by Rongli Sun, Juan Zhang^*

, Mengzhen Xiong, Haiyan Wei, Kehong Tan, Lihong Yin and Yuepu Pu

Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9298-9313; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809298 - 7 Aug 2015

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5453

Abstract

Leukemias and hematopoietic disorders induced by benzene may arise from the toxicity of benzene to hematopoietic stem or progenitor cells (HS/PCs). Since there is a latency period between initial benzene exposure and the development of leukemia, subsequent impact of benzene on HS/PCs are [...] Read more.

Leukemias and hematopoietic disorders induced by benzene may arise from the toxicity of benzene to hematopoietic stem or progenitor cells (HS/PCs). Since there is a latency period between initial benzene exposure and the development of leukemia, subsequent impact of benzene on HS/PCs are crucial for a deeper understanding of the carcinogenicity and hematotoxicity in post-exposure stage. This study aims to explore the effects of benzene on HS/PCs and gene-expression in Wnt, Notch and Hh signaling pathways in post-exposure stage. The C3H/He mice were injected subcutaneously with benzene (0, 150, 300 mg/kg/day) for three months and were monitored for another 10 months post-exposure. The body weights were monitored, the relative organ weights, blood parameters and bone marrow smears were examined. Frequency of lineage^- sca-1⁺c-kit⁺ (LSK) cells, capability of colony forming and expression of genes in Wnt, Notch and Hedghog (Hh) signaling pathways were also analyzed. The colony formation of the progenitor cells for BFU-E, CFU-GEMM and CFU-GM was significantly decreased with increasing benzene exposure relative to controls, while no significant difference was observed in colonies for CFU-G and CFU-M. The mRNA level of cyclin D1 was increased and Notch 1 and p53 were decreased in LSK cells in mice exposed to benzene but with no statistical significance. These results suggest that subsequent toxic effects of benzene on LSK cells and gene expression in Wnt, Notch and Hh signaling pathways persist in post-exposure stage and may play roles in benzene-induced hematotoxicity. Full article

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16 pages, 2818 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization and Feasibility Assessment of Recycled Paper Mill Sludges for Land Application in Relation to the Environment

by Rosazlin Abdullah^1,*, Che Fauziah Ishak², Wan Rasidah Kadir³ and Rosenani Abu Bakar²

¹ Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia2. Department of Land Management, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia

² Department of Land Management, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia

³ Soil Management Branch, Forest Research Institute Malaysia, Kepong 52109, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9314-9329; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809314 - 7 Aug 2015

Cited by 60 | Viewed by 8800

Abstract

The disposal of industrial paper mill sludge waste is a big issue and has a great importance all over the world. A study was conducted to determine the chemical properties of recycled paper mill sludge (RPMS) and assess its possibilities for land application. [...] Read more.

The disposal of industrial paper mill sludge waste is a big issue and has a great importance all over the world. A study was conducted to determine the chemical properties of recycled paper mill sludge (RPMS) and assess its possibilities for land application. RPMS samples were collected from six different paper mills in Malaysia and analyzed for physical and chemical properties, heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, ¹³C-NMR spectra and for the presence of dioxins/furans. The RPMS was dewatered, sticky with a strong odour, an average moisture of 65.08%, pH 7.09, cation exchange capacity (CEC) 14.43 cmol ₍₊₎ kg^–1, N 1.45, P 0.18, K 0.12, Ca 0.82, Mg 0.73, Na 0.76 and Al, 1.38%. The polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals levels were below the standard Class 2 limits. The dioxin and furan were in below the standard concentration of Class 1. The most prominent peak in the ¹³C-NMR spectra of RPMS was centered at 31 ppm, proving the presence of methylene (-CH₂) groups in long aliphatic chains, with lipids and proteins. The signal at 89 ppm and highly shielded shoulder at 83 ppm were due to presence of cellulose carbon C-4, and the peak at 63 and 65 ppm was due to the cellulose carbon spectrum. The RPMS therefore contains significant amount of nutrients with safe levels of heavy metals and PAHs for environment and can be used as a fertilizer and soil amendment for land application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hazardous Waste and Human Health-2015)

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12 pages, 768 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Willingness-to-Pay for General Practitioners in Contractual Service and Influencing Factors among Empty Nesters in Chongqing, China

by Fei Chen^1,2, Xiang-Long Xu²

, Zhan Yang³, Hua-Wei Tan² and Liang Zhang^1,*

¹ School of Medicine and Health Management, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan 430030, China

² School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China

³ College of Foreign Languages, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9330-9341; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809330 - 10 Aug 2015

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 5750

Abstract

Background: In 2012, a pilot health policy of contractual service relations between general practitioners and patients was implemented in China. Due to the decline in body and cognitive function, as well as the lack of family care and narrow social support networks, the [...] Read more.

Background: In 2012, a pilot health policy of contractual service relations between general practitioners and patients was implemented in China. Due to the decline in body and cognitive function, as well as the lack of family care and narrow social support networks, the demand of health services among the elderly is much higher than that among the general population. This study aims to probe into the empty nesters’ willingness-to-pay for general practitioners using a contractual service policy, investigating empty nesters’ payment levels for the service, and analyze the main factors affecting the willingness of empty-nesters’ general practitioners using contractual service supply cost. Methods: This cross-sectional study adopted a multistage stratified sampling method to survey 865, city empty nesters (six communities in three districts of one city) aged 60–85 years. A condition value method was used to infer the distribution of the willingness-to-pay; Cox’s proportional hazards regression model was used to analyze the influencing factors of willingness-to-pay. Results: More than seventy percent (76.6%) of the empty nesters in this city were willing to pay general practitioners using contract service in Chongqing. The level of willingness-to-pay for the surveyed empty nesters was 34.1 yuan per year. The median value was 22.1 yuan per year, which was below the Chongqing urban and rural cooperative medical insurance individual funding level (60 yuan per year) in 2013. Cox’s proportional hazards regression model analysis showed that the higher the education level was, the worse the self-reported health status would be, accompanied by higher family per capita income, higher satisfaction of community health service, and higher willingness-to-pay empty nesters using a contract service. Women had a higher willingness-to-pay than men. Conclusions: The willingness-to-pay for general practitioners by contractual service is high among city empty nesters in Chongqing, thus, individual financing is feasible. However, people are willing to pay less than half of the current personal financing of cooperative medical insurance of urban and rural residents. Education level, family per capita income, and self-reported health status are the main factors affecting the cost sharing intention for general practitioners using contract service supply. According to the existing situation of different empty nesters, it is important to perfect the design of general practitioners using a contractual service policy system, according to differentiated personal financing levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Economics)

15 pages, 880 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Climate Change and Health on the U.S. Gulf Coast: Public Health Adaptation is Needed to Address Future Risks

by Elisaveta P. Petkova^1,*, Kristie L. Ebi², Derrin Culp¹ and Irwin Redlener^1,3

¹ National Center for Disaster Preparedness, Earth Institute, Columbia University, Suite 303, 215 West 125th Street, New York, NY 10027, USA

² Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, USA

³ Department of Health Policy and Management, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9342-9356; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809342 - 11 Aug 2015

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 17196

Abstract

The impacts of climate change on human health have been documented globally and in the United States. Numerous studies project greater morbidity and mortality as a result of extreme weather events and other climate-sensitive hazards. Public health impacts on the U.S. Gulf Coast [...] Read more.

The impacts of climate change on human health have been documented globally and in the United States. Numerous studies project greater morbidity and mortality as a result of extreme weather events and other climate-sensitive hazards. Public health impacts on the U.S. Gulf Coast may be severe as the region is expected to experience increases in extreme temperatures, sea level rise, and possibly fewer but more intense hurricanes. Through myriad pathways, climate change is likely to make the Gulf Coast less hospitable and more dangerous for its residents, and may prompt substantial migration from and into the region. Public health impacts may be further exacerbated by the concentration of people and infrastructure, as well as the region’s coastal geography. Vulnerable populations, including the very young, elderly, and socioeconomically disadvantaged may face particularly high threats to their health and well-being. This paper provides an overview of potential public health impacts of climate variability and change on the Gulf Coast, with a focus on the region’s unique vulnerabilities, and outlines recommendations for improving the region’s ability to minimize the impacts of climate-sensitive hazards. Public health adaptation aimed at improving individual, public health system, and infrastructure resilience is urgently needed to meet the challenges climate change may pose to the Gulf Coast in the coming decades. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Global Climate Change and Contaminants)

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18 pages, 2165 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Contributing to Hypoxia in the Minjiang River Estuary, Southeast China

by Peng Zhang¹

, Yong Pang^1,2,*

, Hongche Pan¹, Chengchun Shi³, Yawen Huang¹ and Jianjian Wang¹

¹ College of Environment, Hohai University, 1 Xikang Road, Nanjing 210098, China

² Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource, Development on Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China

³ Fuzhou Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, 32 Jinjishan Road, Fuzhou 350013, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9357-9374; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809357 - 11 Aug 2015

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 7512

Abstract

Dissolved oxygen (DO) is not only a fundamental parameter of coastal water quality, but also an indication of organics decomposed in water and their degree of eutrophication. There has been a concern about the deterioration of dissolved oxygen conditions in the Minjiang River [...] Read more.

Dissolved oxygen (DO) is not only a fundamental parameter of coastal water quality, but also an indication of organics decomposed in water and their degree of eutrophication. There has been a concern about the deterioration of dissolved oxygen conditions in the Minjiang River Estuary, the longest river in Fujian Province, Southeast China. In this study, the syntheses effects on DO was analyzed by using a four year time series of DO concentration and ancillary parameters (river discharge, water level, and temperature) from the Fuzhou Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, at three automated stations along the Minjiang River Estuary. Hypoxia occurred exclusively in the fluvial sections of the estuary during the high temperature and low river discharge period and was remarkably more serious in the river reach near the large urban area of Fuzhou. Enhancement of respiration by temperature and discharge of domestic sewage and industrial wastewater, versus regeneration of waters and dilution of pollutant concentration with increased river discharge, which regarded as the dominant antagonist processes that controlled the appearance of seasonal hypoxia. During the high temperature and the drought period, minimal mainstream flow above 700 m³s⁻¹, reduction of pollutants and forbidding sediment dredging in the South Channel should be guaranteed for strong supports on water quality management and drinking water source protection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Systems Engineering)

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0 pages, 685 KiB

Open AccessArticle

RETRACTED: Evidence of Coal-Fly-Ash Toxic Chemical Geoengineering in the Troposphere: Consequences for Public Health

by J. Marvin Herndon

Transdyne Corporation, 11044 Red Rock Drive, San Diego, CA 92131, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9375-9390; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809375 - 11 Aug 2015

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 86415 | Retraction

Abstract

The widespread, intentional and increasingly frequent chemical emplacement in the troposphere has gone unidentified and unremarked in the scientific literature for years. The author presents evidence that toxic coal combustion fly ash is the most likely aerosolized particulate sprayed by tanker-jets for geoengineering, [...] Read more.

The widespread, intentional and increasingly frequent chemical emplacement in the troposphere has gone unidentified and unremarked in the scientific literature for years. The author presents evidence that toxic coal combustion fly ash is the most likely aerosolized particulate sprayed by tanker-jets for geoengineering, weather-modification and climate-modification purposes and describes some of the multifold consequences on public health. Two methods are employed: (1) Comparison of 8 elements analyzed in rainwater, leached from aerosolized particulates, with corresponding elements leached into water from coal fly ash in published laboratory experiments, and (2) Comparison of 14 elements analyzed in dust collected outdoors on a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter with corresponding elements analyzed in un-leached coal fly ash material. The results show: (1) the assemblage of elements in rainwater and in the corresponding experimental leachate are essentially identical. At a 99% confidence interval, they have identical means (T-test) and identical variances (F-test); and (2) the assemblage of elements in the HEPA dust and in the corresponding average un-leached coal fly ash are likewise essentially identical. The consequences on public health are profound, including exposure to a variety of toxic heavy metals, radioactive elements, and neurologically-implicated chemically mobile aluminum released by body moisture in situ after inhalation or through transdermal induction. Full article

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17 pages, 765 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Model Averaging for Improving Inference from Causal Diagrams

by Ghassan B. Hamra^1,*, Jay S. Kaufman² and Anjel Vahratian³

¹ Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Drexel University School of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA

² Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A2, Canada

³ Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9391-9407; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809391 - 11 Aug 2015

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 9048

Abstract

Model selection is an integral, yet contentious, component of epidemiologic research. Unfortunately, there remains no consensus on how to identify a single, best model among multiple candidate models. Researchers may be prone to selecting the model that best supports their a priori, [...] Read more.

Model selection is an integral, yet contentious, component of epidemiologic research. Unfortunately, there remains no consensus on how to identify a single, best model among multiple candidate models. Researchers may be prone to selecting the model that best supports their a priori, preferred result; a phenomenon referred to as “wish bias”. Directed acyclic graphs (DAGs), based on background causal and substantive knowledge, are a useful tool for specifying a subset of adjustment variables to obtain a causal effect estimate. In many cases, however, a DAG will support multiple, sufficient or minimally-sufficient adjustment sets. Even though all of these may theoretically produce unbiased effect estimates they may, in practice, yield somewhat distinct values, and the need to select between these models once again makes the research enterprise vulnerable to wish bias. In this work, we suggest combining adjustment sets with model averaging techniques to obtain causal estimates based on multiple, theoretically-unbiased models. We use three techniques for averaging the results among multiple candidate models: information criteria weighting, inverse variance weighting, and bootstrapping. We illustrate these approaches with an example from the Pregnancy, Infection, and Nutrition (PIN) study. We show that each averaging technique returns similar, model averaged causal estimates. An a priori strategy of model averaging provides a means of integrating uncertainty in selection among candidate, causal models, while also avoiding the temptation to report the most attractive estimate from a suite of equally valid alternatives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Methodological Innovations and Reflections-1)

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19 pages, 734 KiB

Open AccessReview

Effect of Television on Obesity and Excess of Weight and Consequences of Health

by Anna Rosiek^1,*, Natalia Frąckowiak Maciejewska², Krzysztof Leksowski³, Aleksandra Rosiek-Kryszewska⁴ and Łukasz Leksowski⁵

¹ Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Bydgoszcz 85-830 & Ross-Medica, Poland

² Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Bydgoszcz 85-830, Poland

³ Chair of Public Health Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Bydgoszcz 85-830 & Department of General Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Military Clinical Hospital in Bydgoszcz, Poland

⁴ Department of Inorganic and Analitycal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Bydgoszcz 85-089, Poland

⁵ Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus in Toruń, Bydgoszcz 85-094, Poland

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9408-9426; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809408 - 12 Aug 2015

Cited by 83 | Viewed by 15929

Abstract

The epidemic nature of obesity in industrialized countries is a serious health and social concern. The number of obese people has significantly increased in the past 20 years. In Poland excess weight and obesity are a serious epidemiological concern. In terms of the [...] Read more.

The epidemic nature of obesity in industrialized countries is a serious health and social concern. The number of obese people has significantly increased in the past 20 years. In Poland excess weight and obesity are a serious epidemiological concern. In terms of the number of overweight people, Poland is a leader in Europe. Therefore, indicating many serious health concerns that are the natural consequences of this phenomenon has become important from the point of view of public health. This work identifies numerous diseases which are a direct consequence of obesity due to bad eating habits and lack of physical exercise among Poles. It discusses the negative effect of television and food commercials contributing to an increase in obesity, not only among adults but also among children. This is an overview forming grounds for further studies into ways of preventing the development of diseases due to obesity, both in Poland and in the world. Full article

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17 pages, 671 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association of Mothers’ Perception of Neighborhood Quality and Maternal Resilience with Risk of Preterm Birth

by Namrata Bhatia^1,*,‡, Shin Margaret Chao^2,†, Chandra Higgins^2,†, Suvas Patel^2,† and Catherine M. Crespi³

¹ Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA

² Los Angeles County, Department of Public Health, Maternal, Child, and Adolescent Health Programs, Los Angeles, CA, USA

³ Department of Biostatistics, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 94158, USA

^‡ This research was performed while at Department of Biostatistics, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 94158, USA

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9427-9443; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809427 - 12 Aug 2015

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4834

Abstract

We examined the associations of mothers’ perception of neighborhood quality and maternal resilience with risk of preterm birth and whether maternal resilience moderated the effect of neighborhood quality perception. We analyzed data from 10,758 women with singleton births who participated in 2010–2012 Los [...] Read more.

We examined the associations of mothers’ perception of neighborhood quality and maternal resilience with risk of preterm birth and whether maternal resilience moderated the effect of neighborhood quality perception. We analyzed data from 10,758 women with singleton births who participated in 2010–2012 Los Angeles Mommy and Baby surveys. Multilevel logistic regression models assessed the effects of mothers’ perception of neighborhood quality and maternal resilience on preterm birth (yes/no), controlling for potential confounders and economic hardship index, a city-level measure of neighborhood quality. Interaction terms were assessed for moderation. Mothers’ perception of neighborhood quality and maternal resilience were each uniquely associated with preterm birth, independent of potential confounders (p-values < 0.05). The risk of preterm birth among mothers who perceived their neighborhood as of poor quality was about 30% greater compared to mothers who perceived their neighborhood as of good quality; the risk was 12% greater among mothers with low resilience compared to those with high resilience. Effects of neighborhood quality were not modified by maternal resilience. The findings suggest that mothers’ perception of neighborhood quality and resilience are associated with the risk of preterm birth. Further research should explore whether initiatives aimed at improving neighborhood quality and women’s self-esteem may improve birth outcomes. Full article

10 pages, 789 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Level of Self-Esteem and Sexual Functioning in Women with Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Preliminary Study

by Jacek Durmała^1,†, Irmina Blicharska^1,†, Agnieszka Drosdzol-Cop^2,*,†

and Violetta Skrzypulec-Plinta^2,†

¹ Chair and Department of Rehabilitation, School of Health Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, ul. Medyków 12, 40-752 Katowice, Poland

² Chair of Woman's Health, School of Health Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, ul. Medyków 12, 40-752 Katowice, Poland

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9444-9453; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809444 - 12 Aug 2015

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 5653

Abstract

A person’s image, which is determined through physical appearance, considerably affects self-esteem developed from early childhood. Scoliosis causes multiple trunk deformations that can affect a person’s perception of the body. The aim of the study was to analyze the impact of scoliosis dimension [...] Read more.

A person’s image, which is determined through physical appearance, considerably affects self-esteem developed from early childhood. Scoliosis causes multiple trunk deformations that can affect a person’s perception of the body. The aim of the study was to analyze the impact of scoliosis dimension and the degree of trunk deformation on the level of self-esteem and sexual functioning in women with idiopathic scoliosis. Thirty-six women diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis were recruited to a prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled trial. The subjects were divided into two groups depending on the value of the Cobb angle. The level of self-esteem was determined by means of the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (SES), whereas the sexual functioning was assessed via the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). The trunk deformations were specified with the Posterior Trunk Symmetry Index (POTSI). A statistically significant correlation was proved between the amount of points received in the Rosenberg scale evaluation and the POTSI index in Group A (R = −0.56, p = 0.04). Subjects with smaller deformations within the coronal plane had a higher level of self-confidence. The trunk asymmetries in the coronal plane may have a negative effect on women with scoliosis and their self-appraisal. Full article

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21 pages, 2815 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dengue Vaccines: A Perspective from the Point of View of Intellectual Property

by Claudimar Pereira Da Veiga^*,†, Cássia Rita Pereira Da Veiga^†, Jansen Maia Del Corso^† and Wesley Vieira Da Silva^†

¹ Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná, PUCPR, Rua Imaculada Conceição, 1155 Prado Velho, 80215-901 Curitiba, PR, Brazil

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9454-9474; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809454 - 12 Aug 2015

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 6444

Abstract

Dengue is a serious infectious disease and a growing public health problem in many tropical and sub-tropical countries. To control this neglected tropical disease (NTD), vaccines are likely to be the most cost-effective solution. This study analyzed dengue vaccines from both a historical [...] Read more.

Dengue is a serious infectious disease and a growing public health problem in many tropical and sub-tropical countries. To control this neglected tropical disease (NTD), vaccines are likely to be the most cost-effective solution. This study analyzed dengue vaccines from both a historical and longitudinal perspective by using patent data, evaluating the geographic and time coverage of innovations, the primary patent holders, the network of cooperation and partnership for vaccine research and development (R & D), the flow of knowledge and the technological domain involved. This study can be seen as an example of the use of patent information to inform policy discussions, strategic research planning, and technology transfer. The results show that 93% of patents were granted since 2000, the majority belonging to the United States and Europe, although the share of patents from developing countries has increased. Unlike another NTDs, there is great participation of private companies in R & D of dengue vaccines and partnerships and collaboration between public and private companies. Finally, in this study, the main holders showed high knowledge absorption and generated capabilities. Therefore, this issue suggests that to overcome the difficulty of translational R & D it is necessary to stimulate the generation of knowledge and relevant scientific research, to enable the productive sector to have the capacity to absorb knowledge, to turn it into innovation, and to articulate partnerships and collaboration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Economics)

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17 pages, 772 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Residents’ Waste Separation Behaviors at the Source: Using SEM with the Theory of Planned Behavior in Guangzhou, China

by Dongliang Zhang^1,2,3,*

, Guangqing Huang^2,†, Xiaoling Yin^2,† and Qinghua Gong²

¹ Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China

² Guangzhou Institute of Geography, Guangzhou 510070, China

³ University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9475-9491; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809475 - 12 Aug 2015

Cited by 232 | Viewed by 14996

Abstract

Understanding the factors that affect residents’ waste separation behaviors helps in constructing effective environmental campaigns for a community. Using the theory of planned behavior (TPB), this study examines factors associated with waste separation behaviors by analyzing responses to questionnaires distributed in Guangzhou, China. [...] Read more.

Understanding the factors that affect residents’ waste separation behaviors helps in constructing effective environmental campaigns for a community. Using the theory of planned behavior (TPB), this study examines factors associated with waste separation behaviors by analyzing responses to questionnaires distributed in Guangzhou, China. Data drawn from 208 of 1000-field questionnaires were used to assess socio-demographic factors and the TPB constructs (i.e., attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, intentions, and situational factors). The questionnaire data revealed that attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, intentions, and situational factors significantly predicted household waste behaviors in Guangzhou, China. Through a structural equation modeling analysis, we concluded that campaigns targeting moral obligations may be particularly effective for increasing the participation rate in waste separation behaviors. Full article

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16 pages, 2200 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seasonal-Spatial Distribution and Long-Term Variation of Transparency in Xin’anjiang Reservoir: Implications for Reservoir Management

by Zhixu Wu¹, Yunlin Zhang^2,*

, Yongqiang Zhou^2,3, Mingliang Liu⁴, Kun Shi² and Zuoming Yu⁴

¹ Chun’an Environmental Monitoring Station, Hangzhou 311700, China

² Taihu Laboratory for Lake Ecosystem Research, State Key Laboratory of Lake Science and Environment, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China

³ College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China

⁴ Institute of Environmental Protection Science, Hangzhou 310014, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9492-9507; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809492 - 12 Aug 2015

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 6022

Abstract

Water transparency is a useful indicator of water quality or productivity and is widely used to detect long-term changes in the water quality and eutrophication of lake ecosystems. Based on short-term spatial observations in the spring, summer, and winter and on long-term site-specific [...] Read more.

Water transparency is a useful indicator of water quality or productivity and is widely used to detect long-term changes in the water quality and eutrophication of lake ecosystems. Based on short-term spatial observations in the spring, summer, and winter and on long-term site-specific observation from 1988 to 2013, the spatial, seasonal, long-term variations, and the factors affecting transparency are presented for Xin’anjiang Reservoir (China). Spatially, transparency was high in the open water but low in the bays and the inflowing river mouths, reflecting the effect of river runoff. The seasonal effects were distinct, with lower values in the summer than in the winter, most likely due to river runoff and phytoplankton biomass increases. The transparency decreased significantly with a linear slope of 0.079 m/year, indicating a 2.05 m decrease and a marked decrease in water quality. A marked increase occurred in chlorophyll a (Chla) concentration, and a significant correlation was found between the transparency and Chla concentration, indicating that phytoplankton biomass can partially explain the long-term trend of transparency in Xin’anjiang Reservoir. The river input and phytoplankton biomass increase were associated with soil erosion and nutrient loss in the catchment. Our study will support future management of water quality in Xin’anjiang Reservoir. Full article

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15 pages, 407 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Point-of-Sale Tobacco Display Bans in Thailand: Findings from the International Tobacco Control (ITC) Southeast Asia Survey

by Lin Li^1,*, Ron Borland¹, Hua-Hie Yong¹, Buppha Sirirassamee², Stephen Hamann³, Maizurah Omar⁴ and Anne C.K. Quah⁵

¹ Nigel Gray Fellowship Group, Cancer Council Victoria, 615 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia

² Institute for Population and Social Research, Mahidol University Salaya, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand

³ Tobacco Control Research and Knowledge Management Center, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand

⁴ National Poison Center, University Sains Malaysia, 11800 Minden, Penang, Malaysia

⁵ Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9508-9522; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809508 - 13 Aug 2015

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 8497

Abstract

In September 2005 Thailand became the first Asian country to implement a complete ban on the display of cigarettes and other tobacco products at point-of-sale (POS). This paper examined the impact of the POS tobacco display ban in Thailand, with Malaysia (which did [...] Read more.

In September 2005 Thailand became the first Asian country to implement a complete ban on the display of cigarettes and other tobacco products at point-of-sale (POS). This paper examined the impact of the POS tobacco display ban in Thailand, with Malaysia (which did not impose bans) serving as a comparison. The data came from the International Tobacco Control Southeast Asia Survey (2005–2011), a prospective cohort survey designed to evaluate the psychosocial and behavioral impacts of tobacco control policies. Main measures included smokers’ reported awareness of tobacco displays and advertising at POS. At the first post-ban survey wave over 90% of smokers in Thailand were aware of the display ban policy and supported it, and about three quarters thought the ban was effective. Noticing tobacco displays in stores was lowest (16.9%) at the first post-ban survey wave, but increased at later survey waves; however, the levels were consistently lower than those in Malaysia. Similarly, exposure to POS tobacco advertising was lower in Thailand. The display ban has reduced exposure to tobacco marketing at POS. The trend toward increased noticing is likely at least in part due to some increase in violations of the display bans and/or strategies to circumvent them. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tobacco Control 2015)

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13 pages, 702 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimating the Smoking Ban Effects on Smoking Prevalence, Quitting and Cigarette Consumption in a Population Study of Apprentices in Italy

by Luca Pieroni^1,*, Giacomo Muzi², Augusto Quercia³, Donatella Lanari⁴, Carmen Rundo⁵, Liliana Minelli⁴

, Luca Salmasi¹ and Marco Dell'Omo²

¹ Department of Political Science, University of Perugia, via Pascoli 20, 06123 Perugia, Italy

² Unit of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi, 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy

³ Dipartimento di Prevenzione, ASL Viterbo, Via Enrico Fermi 15, 01100 Viterbo, Italy

⁴ Unit of Public Health, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy

⁵ School of Public Health, University of Perugia, Piazzale Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9523-9535; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809523 - 13 Aug 2015

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4807

Abstract

Objectives: We evaluated the effects of the Italian 2005 smoking ban in public places on the prevalence of smoking, quitting and cigarette consumption of young workers. Data and Methods: The dataset was obtained from non-computerized registers of medical examinations for a [...] Read more.

Objectives: We evaluated the effects of the Italian 2005 smoking ban in public places on the prevalence of smoking, quitting and cigarette consumption of young workers. Data and Methods: The dataset was obtained from non-computerized registers of medical examinations for a population of workers with apprenticeship contracts residing in the province of Viterbo, Italy, in the period 1996–2007. To estimate the effects of the ban, a segmented regression approach was used, exploiting the discontinuity introduced by the application of the law on apprentices’ smoking behavior. Results: It is estimated that the Italian smoking ban generally had no effect on smoking prevalence, quitting ratio, or cigarette consumption of apprentices. However, when the estimates were applied to subpopulations, significant effects were found: −1% in smoking prevalence, +2% in quitting, and −3% in smoking intensity of apprentices with at least a diploma. Full article

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6 pages, 643 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Readiness Visual Analog Scale: A Simple Way to Predict Post-Stroke Smoking Behavior

by Przemyslaw Bienkowski¹, Pawel Zatorski¹, Agata Glebicka¹, Anna Scinska², Iwona Kurkowska-Jastrzebska³

, Magdalena Restel², Jerzy Samochowiec⁴, Danuta Ryglewicz² and Halina Sienkiewicz-Jarosz^2,*

¹ Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, 02-957 Warsaw, Poland

² Department of Neurology, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, 9 Sobieskiego St., 02-957 Warsaw, Poland

³ Department of Neurology, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, 02-957 Warsaw, Poland

⁴ Department of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-204 Szczecin, Poland

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9536-9541; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809536 - 13 Aug 2015

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 5069

Abstract

Background and Purpose: The aim of the present study was to assess a relationship between readiness to quit and post-stroke smoking behavior. Methods: Eighty-six active smokers with first-ever ischemic stroke were recruited in a tertiary-care stroke unit. The question “Are you ready to [...] Read more.

Background and Purpose: The aim of the present study was to assess a relationship between readiness to quit and post-stroke smoking behavior. Methods: Eighty-six active smokers with first-ever ischemic stroke were recruited in a tertiary-care stroke unit. The question “Are you ready to quit smoking within the next month?” with yes/no responses and the 10-cm readiness visual analog scale (VAS) was administered during the anti-smoking intervention. Smoking status was verified at the 3- and 12-month follow-up. Results: The readiness VAS score at hospitalization was significantly lower in patients classified as smokers as compared to patients classified as non-smokers. The readiness score <5 cm was a significant predictor of smoking at the 3-month (OR, 7.3) and 12-month follow-up (OR, 4.9). Conclusions: The present results suggest that the readiness VAS can be used as a simple and inexpensive instrument for early identification of patients who continue to smoke after stroke. Full article

20 pages, 1432 KiB

Open AccessReview

Solar-Enhanced Advanced Oxidation Processes for Water Treatment: Simultaneous Removal of Pathogens and Chemical Pollutants

by Oyuna Tsydenova^*, Valeriy Batoev and Agniya Batoeva

Baikal Institute of Nature Management, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Sakhyanova st. 6, Ulan-Ude City 670047, Russia

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9542-9561; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809542 - 14 Aug 2015

Cited by 113 | Viewed by 8554

Abstract

The review explores the feasibility of simultaneous removal of pathogens and chemical pollutants by solar-enhanced advanced oxidation processes (AOPs). The AOPs are based on in-situ generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), most notably hydroxyl radicals •OH, that are capable of destroying both pollutant [...] Read more.

The review explores the feasibility of simultaneous removal of pathogens and chemical pollutants by solar-enhanced advanced oxidation processes (AOPs). The AOPs are based on in-situ generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), most notably hydroxyl radicals •OH, that are capable of destroying both pollutant molecules and pathogen cells. The review presents evidence of simultaneous removal of pathogens and chemical pollutants by photocatalytic processes, namely TiO₂ photocatalysis and photo-Fenton. Complex water matrices with high loads of pathogens and chemical pollutants negatively affect the efficiency of disinfection and pollutant removal. This is due to competition between chemical substances and pathogens for generated ROS. Other possible negative effects include light screening, competitive photon absorption, adsorption on the catalyst surface(thereby inhibiting its photocatalytic activity), etc. Besides, some matrix components may serve as nutrients for pathogens, thus hindering the disinfection process. Each type of water/wastewater would require a tailor-made approach and the variables that were shown to influence the processes—catalyst/oxidant concentrations, incident radiation flux, and pH—need to be adjusted in order to achieve the required degree of pollutant and pathogen removal. Overall, the solar-enhanced AOPs hold promise as an environmentally-friendly way to substitute or supplement conventional water/wastewater treatment, particularly in areas without access to centralized drinking water or sewage/wastewater treatment facilities. Full article

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13 pages, 679 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors associated with Early Initiation of Breastfeeding in Western Nepal

by Vishnu Khanal^1,2, Jane A. Scott^2,*

, Andy H. Lee², Rajendra Karkee³ and Colin W. Binns²

¹ Nepal Development Society, Bharatpur, 44209, Nepal

² School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth 6102, Australia

³ School of Public Health and Community Medicine, BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan 56700, Nepal

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9562-9574; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809562 - 14 Aug 2015

Cited by 65 | Viewed by 11140

Abstract

The initiation of breastfeeding within one hour of birth has numerous nutritional and immunological benefits and has been found to reduce neonatal mortality. This community-based prospective cohort study aimed to report the rate of, and factors associated with, early initiation of breastfeeding in [...] Read more.

The initiation of breastfeeding within one hour of birth has numerous nutritional and immunological benefits and has been found to reduce neonatal mortality. This community-based prospective cohort study aimed to report the rate of, and factors associated with, early initiation of breastfeeding in Western Nepal. The rate of early initiation of breastfeeding was reported, and associations between early initiation and independent variables were tested by Chi-square test, followed by multiple logistic regression. Of the 735 mother-infant pairs, a total of 310 (42.2%) reported early initiation. Mothers who were assisted by traditional attendants during childbirth, delivered by caesarean section, from ethnically disadvantaged families and had delivered low birth weight infants, were less likely to initiate breastfeeding early whereas the mothers who were from the poorest families and did not introduce prelacteal feeds to their infants were more likely to initiate breastfeeding within the first hour. Skills-training to support breastfeeding as part of the training of skilled birth attendants and other health workers is likely to promote recommended infant feeding practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Breastfeeding and Infant Health)

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14 pages, 786 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Can Public Health Risk Assessment Using Risk Matrices Be Misleading?

by Shabnam Vatanpour¹, Steve E. Hrudey^2,* and Irina Dinu¹

¹ School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada

² Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, Division of Analytical and Environmental Toxicology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G3, Canada

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9575-9588; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809575 - 14 Aug 2015

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 25075

Abstract

The risk assessment matrix is a widely accepted, semi-quantitative tool for assessing risks, and setting priorities in risk management. Although the method can be useful to promote discussion to distinguish high risks from low risks, a published critique described a problem when the [...] Read more.

The risk assessment matrix is a widely accepted, semi-quantitative tool for assessing risks, and setting priorities in risk management. Although the method can be useful to promote discussion to distinguish high risks from low risks, a published critique described a problem when the frequency and severity of risks are negatively correlated. A theoretical analysis showed that risk predictions could be misleading. We evaluated a practical public health example because it provided experiential risk data that allowed us to assess the practical implications of the published concern that risk matrices would make predictions that are worse than random. We explored this predicted problem by constructing a risk assessment matrix using a public health risk scenario—Tainted blood transfusion infection risk—That provides negative correlation between harm frequency and severity. We estimated the risk from the experiential data and compared these estimates with those provided by the risk assessment matrix. Although we validated the theoretical concern, for these authentic experiential data, the practical scope of the problem was limited. The risk matrix has been widely used in risk assessment. This method should not be abandoned wholesale, but users must address the source of the problem, apply the risk matrix with a full understanding of this problem and use matrix predictions to inform, but not drive decision-making. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Methodological Innovations and Reflections-1)

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14 pages, 350 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Oxidative Stress Mechanisms Caused by Ag Nanoparticles (NM300K) are Different from Those of AgNO₃: Effects in the Soil Invertebrate Enchytraeus Crypticus

by Maria J. Ribeiro^1,†, Vera L. Maria^1,†, Janeck J. Scott-Fordsmand² and Mónica J. B. Amorim^1,*

¹ Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-193, Portugal

² Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Vejlsovej 25, Silkeborg DK-8600, Denmark

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9589-9602; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809589 - 14 Aug 2015

Cited by 60 | Viewed by 7286

Abstract

The mechanisms of toxicity of Ag nanoparticles (NPs) are unclear, in particular in the terrestrial environment. In this study the effects of AgNP (AgNM300K) were assessed in terms of oxidative stress in the soil worm Enchytraeus crypticus, using a range of biochemical [...] Read more.

The mechanisms of toxicity of Ag nanoparticles (NPs) are unclear, in particular in the terrestrial environment. In this study the effects of AgNP (AgNM300K) were assessed in terms of oxidative stress in the soil worm Enchytraeus crypticus, using a range of biochemical markers [catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST), glutathione reductase (GR), total glutathione (TG), metallothionein (MT), lipid peroxidation (LPO)]. E. crypticus were exposed during 3 and 7 days (d) to the reproduction EC₂₀, EC₅₀ and EC₈₀ levels of both AgNP and AgNO₃. AgNO₃ induced oxidative stress earlier (3 d) than AgNP (7 d), both leading to LPO despite the activation of the anti-redox system. MT increased only for AgNP. The Correspondence Analysis showed a clear separation between AgNO₃ and AgNP, with e.g. CAT being the main descriptor for AgNP for 7 d. LPO, GST and GPx were for both 3 and 7 d associated with AgNO₃, whereas MT and TG were associated with AgNP. These results may reflect a delay in the effects of AgNP compared to AgNO₃ due to the slower release of Ag⁺ions from the AgNP, although this does not fully explain the observed differences, i.e., we can conclude that there is a nanoparticle effect. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Fate and Effect of Nanoparticles and Nanomaterials)

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20 pages, 1076 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seasonal Variation and Sources of Dissolved Nutrients in the Yellow River, China

by Yao Gong^1,2, Zhigang Yu¹, Qingzhen Yao^1,*, Hongtao Chen¹, Tiezhu Mi³ and Jiaqiang Tan¹

¹ Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China

² Tianjin Marine Environmental Monitoring Center, State Oceanic Administration People's Republic of China, Tianjin 300450, China

³ Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9603-9622; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809603 - 14 Aug 2015

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 6878

Abstract

The rapid growth of the economy in China has caused dramatic growth in the industrial and agricultural development in the Yellow River (YR) watershed. The hydrology of the YR has changed dramatically due to the climate changes and water management practices, which have [...] Read more.

The rapid growth of the economy in China has caused dramatic growth in the industrial and agricultural development in the Yellow River (YR) watershed. The hydrology of the YR has changed dramatically due to the climate changes and water management practices, which have resulted in a great variation in the fluxes of riverine nutrients carried by the YR. To study these changes dissolved nutrients in the YR were measured monthly at Lijin station in the downstream region of the YR from 2002 to 2004. This study provides detailed information on the nutrient status for the relevant studies in the lower YR and the Bohai Sea. The YR was enriched in nitrate (average 314 μmol·L⁻¹) with a lower concentration of dissolved silicate (average 131 μmol·L⁻¹) and relatively low dissolved phosphate (average 0.35 μmol·L⁻¹). Nutrient concentrations exhibited substantial seasonal and yearly variations. The annual fluxes of dissolved inorganic nitrogen, phosphate, and silicate in 2004 were 5.3, 2.5, and 4.2 times those in 2002, respectively, primarily due to the increase in river discharge. The relative contributions of nutrient inputs to nitrogen in the YR were: wastewater > fertilizer > atmospheric deposition > soil; while to phosphorus were: wastewater > fertilizer > soil > atmospheric deposition. The ratios of N, P and Si suggest that the YR at Lijin is strongly P-limited with respect to potential phytoplankton growth. Full article

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16 pages, 6296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Adsorption Capacities for Airborne Particulates of Landscape Plants in Different Polluted Regions in Beijing (China)

by Wei-Kang Zhang¹, Bing Wang^1,2 and Xiang Niu^2,*

¹ The College of Forestry, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China

² The Research Institute of Forest Ecology, Environment and Protection, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing 100091, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9623-9638; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809623 - 14 Aug 2015

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 6859

Abstract

Urban landscape plants are an important component of the urban ecosystem, playing a significant role in the adsorption of airborne particulates and air purification. In this study, six common landscape plants in Beijing were chosen as research subjects, and the adsorption capacities for [...] Read more.

Urban landscape plants are an important component of the urban ecosystem, playing a significant role in the adsorption of airborne particulates and air purification. In this study, six common landscape plants in Beijing were chosen as research subjects, and the adsorption capacities for each different plant leaf and the effects of the leaf structures for the adsorption capacities for particulates were determined. Preliminary results show that needle-leaved tree species adsorbed more airborne particulates than broad-leaved tree species for the same leaf area. Pinus tabuliformis exhibits the highest adsorption capacity, at 3.89 ± 0.026 μg·cm⁻², almost two times as much as that of Populus tomentosa (2.00 ± 0.118 μg·cm⁻²). The adsorption capacities for PM₁₀ of the same tree species leaves, in different polluted regions had significant differences, and the adsorption capacities for PM₁₀ of the tree species leaf beside the Fifth Ring Road were higher than those of the tree species leaves in the Botanical Garden, although the adsorption capacities for PM_2.5 of the same tree species in different polluted regions had no significant differences. By determining the soluble ion concentrations of the airborne particulates in two regions, it is suggested that the soluble ion concentrations of PM₁₀ in the atmosphere in the Botanical Garden and beside the Fifth Ring Road have significant differences, while those of PM_2.5 in the atmosphere had no significant differences. In different polluted regions there are significant adaptive changes to the leaf structures, and when compared with slightly polluted region, in the seriously polluted region the epidermis cells of the plant leaves shrinked, the surface textures of the leaves became rougher, and the stomas’ frequency and the pubescence length increased. Even though the plant leaves exposed to the seriously polluted region changed significantly, these plants can still grow normally and healthily. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Systems Engineering)

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19 pages, 382 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence of Polyherbacy in Ambulatory Visits to Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinics in Taiwan

by Ming-Hwai Lin^1,2, Hsiao-Ting Chang^1,2, Chun-Yi Tu^2,3, Tzeng-Ji Chen^1,2,*

and Shinn-Jang Hwang^1,2

¹ Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No. 201, Sec. 2, Shi-Pai Road, Taipei 112, Taiwan

² School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, No. 155, Sec. 2, Linong Street, Taipei 112, Taiwan

³ Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taoyuan branch, No. 100, Sec. 3, Cheng Kung Road, Tao Yuan 330, Taiwan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9639-9657; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809639 - 14 Aug 2015

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5302

Abstract

Patients with a polyherbal prescription are more likely to receive duplicate medications and thus suffer from adverse drug reactions. We conducted a population-based retrospective study to examine the items of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) per prescription in the ambulatory care of traditional Chinese [...] Read more.

Patients with a polyherbal prescription are more likely to receive duplicate medications and thus suffer from adverse drug reactions. We conducted a population-based retrospective study to examine the items of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) per prescription in the ambulatory care of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in Taiwan. We retrieved complete TCM ambulatory visit datasets for 2010 from the National Health Insurance database in Taiwan. A total of 59,790 patients who received 313,482 CHM prescriptions were analyzed. Drug prescriptions containing more than five drugs were classified as polyherbal prescriptions; 41.6% of patients were given a polyherbal prescription. There were on average 5.2 ± 2.5 CHMs: 2.3 ± 1.1 compound herbal formula items, and 3.0 ± 2.5 single Chinese herb items in a single prescription. Approximately 4.6% of patients were prescribed 10 CHMs or more. Men had a lower odds ratio (OR) among polyherbal prescriptions (OR = 0.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.92–0.99), and middle-aged patients (35–49 years) had the highest frequency of polyherbal prescription (OR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.13–1.26). Patients with neoplasm, skin and subcutaneous tissue disease, or genitourinary system disease were more likely to have a polyherbal prescription; OR = 2.20 (1.81–2.67), 1.65 (1.50–1.80), and 1.52 (1.40–1.64), respectively. Polyherbal prescription is widespread in TCM in Taiwan. Potential herb interactions and iatrogenic risks associated with polyherbal prescriptions should be monitored. Full article

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14 pages, 1761 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pollution Characteristics and Health Risk Assessment of Airborne Heavy Metals Collected from Beijing Bus Stations

by Xiaoxia Zheng¹, Wenji Zhao^1,*, Xing Yan², Tongtong Shu¹, Qiulin Xiong¹ and Fantao Chen¹

¹ Department of Cartography and Geographic Information System, College of Resource Environment and Tourism, Capital Normal University, Beijing 100048, China

² Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9658-9671; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809658 - 17 Aug 2015

Cited by 94 | Viewed by 6776

Abstract

Airborne dust, which contains high levels of toxic metals, is recognized as one of the most harmful environment component. The purpose of this study was to evaluate heavy metals pollution in dustfall from bus stations in Beijing, and to perform a risk assessment [...] Read more.

Airborne dust, which contains high levels of toxic metals, is recognized as one of the most harmful environment component. The purpose of this study was to evaluate heavy metals pollution in dustfall from bus stations in Beijing, and to perform a risk assessment analysis for adult passengers. The concentrations of Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mo, Ni, Pb, V and Zn were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS). The spatial distribution, pollution level and potential health risk of heavy metals were analyzed by Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping technology, geo-accumulation index and health risk assessment model, respectively. The results indicate that dust samples have elevated metal concentrations, especially for Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn. The nine metals can be divided into two categories in terms of spatial distribution and pollution level. Cd, Cr, Cu, Mo, Pb and Zn reach contaminated level and have similar spatial patterns with hotspots distributed within the Fifth Ring Road. While the hot spot areas of Co and V are always out of the Fifth Ring Road. Health risk assessment shows that both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks of selected metals were within the safe range. Full article

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11 pages, 564 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Lead Exposure on Serum Uric Acid and Hyperuricemia in Chinese Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Haijiang Dai¹, Zhijun Huang¹, Qihong Deng², Ying Li¹, Ting Xiao¹, Xingping Ning³, Yao Lu^1,* and Hong Yuan^1,2,*

¹ The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China

² Institute of Environment and Health, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China

³ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Zixing 423400, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9672-9682; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809672 - 18 Aug 2015

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 6913

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the correlation between blood lead levels and both serum uric acid and hyperuricemia in adult residents living within an area of China with lead pollution. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 2120 subjects (1180 of [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to assess the correlation between blood lead levels and both serum uric acid and hyperuricemia in adult residents living within an area of China with lead pollution. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 2120 subjects (1180 of whom were male) between the ages of 20 and 75 years who had undergone health examinations at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in a lead-polluted area of China between June 2013 and September 2014. Blood lead was positively correlated with serum uric acid in both males (r = 0.095, p = 0.001) and females (r = 0.134, p < 0.001). Multivariate linear regression analysis demonstrated that for males, blood lead (p = 0.006), age (p = 0.001), current smoking (p = 0.012), education (p = 0.001), triglycerides (TG) (p < 0.001), and serum creatinine (p < 0.001) were independently associated with serum uric acid. For females, blood lead (p < 0.001), body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.009), and TG (p < 0.001) were independently associated with serum uric acid. After multiple adjustments, blood lead was significantly associated with a higher prevalence of hyperuricemia when female subjects were categorized into quartiles (for the highest quartile vs. the lowest quartile, odds ratio (OR) = 2.190; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.106–4.338; p = 0.025); however, no such association was observed for male subjects. Continuous lead exposure has an independent impact on serum uric acid for both males and females, although this impact is more pronounced for females than for males. Lead exposure is significantly associated with hyperuricemia for females but not for males. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lead: Risk Assessment and Health Effects)

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9 pages, 682 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Perspectives on Tobacco Product Waste: A Survey of Framework Convention Alliance Members’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs

by Sanas Javadian¹, Paula Stigler-Granados², Clifton Curtis³, Francis Thompson⁴, Laurent Huber⁴ and Thomas E. Novotny^5,*,†

¹ Graduate School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, USA

² University of Texas School of Public Health, San Antonio, TX 77030, USA

³ The Cigarette Butt Pollution Project, Washington, DC 20004, USA

⁴ Framework Convention Alliance, Washington, DC 20004, USA

⁵ Graduate School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92106, USA

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9683-9691; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809683 - 18 Aug 2015

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5649

Abstract

Cigarette butts (tobacco product waste (TPW)) are the single most collected item in environmental trash cleanups worldwide. This brief descriptive study used an online survey tool (Survey Monkey) to assess knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs among individuals representing the Framework Convention Alliance (FCA) about [...] Read more.

Cigarette butts (tobacco product waste (TPW)) are the single most collected item in environmental trash cleanups worldwide. This brief descriptive study used an online survey tool (Survey Monkey) to assess knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs among individuals representing the Framework Convention Alliance (FCA) about this issue. The FCA has about 350 members, including mainly non-governmental tobacco control advocacy groups that support implementation of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). Although the response rate (28%) was low, respondents represented countries from all six WHO regions. The majority (62%) have heard the term TPW, and nearly all (99%) considered TPW as an environmental harm. Most (77%) indicated that the tobacco industry should be responsible for TPW mitigation, and 72% felt that smokers should also be held responsible. This baseline information may inform future international discussions by the FCTC Conference of the Parties (COP) regarding environmental policies that may be addressed within FCTC obligations. Additional research is planned regarding the entire lifecycle of tobacco’s impact on the environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tobacco Control 2015)

22 pages, 979 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence of Antimicrobial Resistant and Virulent Salmonella spp. in Treated Effluent and Receiving Aquatic Milieu of Wastewater Treatment Plants in Durban, South Africa

by Ejovwokoghene C. Odjadjare and Ademola O. Olaniran^*

Discipline of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Private Bag X54001, Durban 4000, South Africa

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9692-9713; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809692 - 18 Aug 2015

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 6481

Abstract

In this study, we evaluated the impact of treated wastewater effluent from two wastewater treatment plants on the physicochemical parameters and Salmonella spp. load of receiving rivers. Presumptive Salmonella spp. were obtained at all sampled points including the discharge points, with counts ranging [...] Read more.

In this study, we evaluated the impact of treated wastewater effluent from two wastewater treatment plants on the physicochemical parameters and Salmonella spp. load of receiving rivers. Presumptive Salmonella spp. were obtained at all sampled points including the discharge points, with counts ranging from 0 to 4.14 log cfu/mL at both plants. Turbidity, chemical and biological oxygen demand were found to be high and mostly above the required limit for treated wastewater discharge. However, recorded nitrate and phosphate values were very low. Of the 200 confirmed Salmonella spp. isolates recovered from the treated effluent and receiving surface waters, 93% harbored the spiC gene, 84% harbored the misL gene, and 87.5% harbored the orfL gene while 87% harbored the pipD gene. The antibiotic resistance profile revealed that the isolates were resistant to sulfamethoxazole, nalidixic acid and streptomycin, but susceptible to quinolones and third generation β-lactams. These results indicate that in South Africa treated effluents are still a major source of contamination of rivers with pathogens such as Salmonella. Appropriate steps by the regulatory authorities and workers at the treatment plants are needed to enforce stipulated guidelines in order to prevent pollution of surface water resources due to the discharge of poorly treated effluents. Full article

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12 pages, 677 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationship between Health Literacy, Health-Related Behaviors and Health Status: A Survey of Elderly Chinese

by Yong-Bing Liu^1,*, Liu Liu², Yan-Fei Li² and Yan-Li Chen²

¹ Nursing Department of Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225002, China

² Clinical Nursing Department of Nursing College, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830000, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9714-9725; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809714 - 18 Aug 2015

Cited by 232 | Viewed by 15899

Abstract

Background: Despite the large volume of research dedicated to health-related behavior change, chronic disease costs continue to rise, thus creating a major public health burden. Health literacy, the ability to seek, understand, and utilize health information, has been identified as an important [...] Read more.

Background: Despite the large volume of research dedicated to health-related behavior change, chronic disease costs continue to rise, thus creating a major public health burden. Health literacy, the ability to seek, understand, and utilize health information, has been identified as an important factor in the course of chronic conditions. Little research has been conducted on the relationship between health literacy and health-related behaviors and health status in elderly Chinese. The aim of this study was to elucidate the relationship between health literacy and health-related behaviors and health status in China. Methods: The subjects enrolled in this study were selected based on a stratified cluster random sampling design. Information involving >4500 older adults in 44 pension institutions in Urumqi, Changji, Karamay, and Shihezi of Xinjiang between September 2011 and June 2012 was collected. The Chinese Citizen Health Literacy Questionnaire (China Health Education Centre, 2008) and a Scale of the General Status were administered and the information was obtained through face-to-face inquiries by investigators. A total of 1452 respondents met the inclusion criteria. A total of 1452 questionnaires were issued and the valid response rate was 96.14% (1396 of 1452). Factors affecting health literacy and the relationship to health literacy were identified by one-way ANOVA and a multiple linear regression model. Results: The average health literacy level of the elderly in nursing homes was relatively low (71.74 ± 28.35 points). There were significant differences in the health literacy score among the factors of age, gender, race, education level, household income, marital conditions, and former occupation (p < 0.001). The health literacy score was significantly associated with smoking, drinking, physical exercise, and health examination (p < 0.001). The elderly with higher health literacy scores were significantly less likely to have risky behaviors (smoking, regular drinking, and lack of physical exercise), and in turn significantly more likely to undergo health examinations regularly, report good self-rated health, and significantly more likely to access sufficient health information from multiple sources (p < 0.001). No differences were noted between the health literacy score and BMI (p > 0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the independent influencing factors of health literacy included education level, race, former occupation, household income, age, physical exercise, health examination, smoking, and health information access (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Health literacy was significantly associated with health-related behaviors in elderly Chinese. Further longitudinal studies are needed to help confirm that improving health literacy in the elderly may be effective in changing health-related behaviors. To reduce risky habits, educational interventions to improve health literacy should be simultaneously conducted in health promotion work. Full article

24 pages, 851 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Climate Change and Infectious Disease Risk in Western Europe: A Survey of Dutch Expert Opinion on Adaptation Responses and Actors

by Su-Mia Akin^*, Pim Martens and Maud M.T.E. Huynen

International Centre for Integrated assessment and Sustainable development (ICIS), Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9726-9749; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809726 - 18 Aug 2015

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 7056

Abstract

There is growing evidence of climate change affecting infectious disease risk in Western Europe. The call for effective adaptation to this challenge becomes increasingly stronger. This paper presents the results of a survey exploring Dutch expert perspectives on adaptation responses to climate change [...] Read more.

There is growing evidence of climate change affecting infectious disease risk in Western Europe. The call for effective adaptation to this challenge becomes increasingly stronger. This paper presents the results of a survey exploring Dutch expert perspectives on adaptation responses to climate change impacts on infectious disease risk in Western Europe. Additionally, the survey explores the expert sample’s prioritization of mitigation and adaptation, and expert views on the willingness and capacity of relevant actors to respond to climate change. An integrated view on the causation of infectious disease risk is employed, including multiple (climatic and non-climatic) factors. The results show that the experts consider some adaptation responses as relatively more cost-effective, like fostering interagency and community partnerships, or beneficial to health, such as outbreak investigation and response. Expert opinions converge and diverge for different adaptation responses. Regarding the prioritization of mitigation and adaptation responses expert perspectives converge towards a 50/50 budgetary allocation. The experts consider the national government/health authority as the most capable actor to respond to climate change-induced infectious disease risk. Divergence and consensus among expert opinions can influence adaptation policy processes. Further research is necessary to uncover prevailing expert perspectives and their roots, and compare these. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cumulative and Integrated Health Impact Assessment)

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18 pages, 106 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Role of Voluntary Self-Isolation in the Control of Pandemic Influenza Using a Household Epidemic Model

by Qingxia Zhang^1,2 and Dingcheng Wang^1,*

¹ School of Mathematical Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, No. 2006, Xiyuan Avenue, West Hi-Tech Zone, Chengdu 611731, China

² School of Sciences, Southwest Petroleum University, No.8, Xindu Avenue, Xindu District, Chengdu 610500, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9750-9767; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809750 - 18 Aug 2015

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 6683

Abstract

In the absence of effective vaccines, antiviral drugs and personal protective measures, such as voluntary self-isolation, have been a part of preparedness plans for the next influenza pandemic. We used a household model to assess the effect of voluntary self-isolation on outbreak control [...] Read more.

In the absence of effective vaccines, antiviral drugs and personal protective measures, such as voluntary self-isolation, have been a part of preparedness plans for the next influenza pandemic. We used a household model to assess the effect of voluntary self-isolation on outbreak control when antiviral drugs are not provided sufficiently early. We found that the early initiation of voluntary self-isolation can overcome the negative effects caused by a delay in antiviral drug distribution when enough symptomatic individuals comply with home confinement at symptom onset. For example, for the baseline household reproduction number R_H0 = 2:5, if delays of one or two days occur between clinical symptom development and the start of antiviral prophylaxis, then compliance rates of q ≥ 0:41 and q ≥ 0:6, respectively, are required to achieve the same level of effectiveness as starting antiviral prophylaxis at symptom onset. When the time to beginning voluntary self-isolation after symptom onset increases from zero to two days, this strategy has a limited effect on reducing the transmission of influenza; therefore, this strategy should be implemented as soon as possible. In addition, the effect of voluntary self-isolation decreases substantially with the proportion of asymptomatic infections increasing. Full article

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31 pages, 1915 KiB

Open AccessReview

Green Infrastructure, Ecosystem Services, and Human Health

by Christopher Coutts^1,* and Micah Hahn^2,3

¹ Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Center for Demography and Population Health, Florida State University, 113 Collegiate Way, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA

² National Center for Atmospheric Research, Boulder, CO Postal Code 80305, USA

³ Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3156 Rampart Road, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9768-9798; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809768 - 18 Aug 2015

Cited by 327 | Viewed by 38731

Abstract

Contemporary ecological models of health prominently feature the natural environment as fundamental to the ecosystem services that support human life, health, and well-being. The natural environment encompasses and permeates all other spheres of influence on health. Reviews of the natural environment and health [...] Read more.

Contemporary ecological models of health prominently feature the natural environment as fundamental to the ecosystem services that support human life, health, and well-being. The natural environment encompasses and permeates all other spheres of influence on health. Reviews of the natural environment and health literature have tended, at times intentionally, to focus on a limited subset of ecosystem services as well as health benefits stemming from the presence, and access and exposure to, green infrastructure. The sweeping influence of green infrastructure on the myriad ecosystem services essential to health has therefore often been underrepresented. This survey of the literature aims to provide a more comprehensive picture—in the form of a primer—of the many simultaneously acting health co-benefits of green infrastructure. It is hoped that a more accurately exhaustive list of benefits will not only instigate further research into the health co-benefits of green infrastructure but also promote consilience in the many fields, including public health, that must be involved in the landscape conservation necessary to protect and improve health and well-being. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impacts of the Built Environment on Public Health)

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10 pages, 691 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tobacco Use and Exposure to Second-Hand Smoke among Urban Residents: A Community-Based Investigation

by Zhaorui Xu^1,†, Hongzhi Han^2,†, Cheng Zhuang³, Chunyu Zhang¹, Ping Zhao¹ and Yan Yao^4,*

¹ Changchun Health Education Centre, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China

² Editorial Office of Journal of Jilin University Medicine Edition, Changchun, Jilin 130012, China

³ Changchun Institute of Health Supervision, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China

⁴ Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Jilin 130021, China

^† These authors contributed equally to the article.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9799-9808; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809799 - 18 Aug 2015

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5521

Abstract

Objectives: In 2005, China acceded to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC), the foundation for the global fight against tobacco. Certain cities in China have established local regulations to control tobacco use ahead of national policy; however, [...] Read more.

Objectives: In 2005, China acceded to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC), the foundation for the global fight against tobacco. Certain cities in China have established local regulations to control tobacco use ahead of national policy; however, without the enforcement of statutory law, some of these regulations are merely lip service. The aim of the study was to assess the effects of city policy on smoking prevalence and on second-hand smoke (SHS) exposure status among non-smokers in Changchun City. Methods: A cross-sectional survey covering a multiple-stage, representative sample of the urban population aged ≥15 years was conducted between 1 Dec 2013 and 31 Jan2014. The WHO and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention developed the questionnaires used, which included demographic characteristics, smoking behaviors and SHS exposure status. Results: Overall cigarette smoking prevalence was 23.5%; daily cigarette smoking prevalence was 21.2%. Smoking prevalence and cigarettes consumed per day was higher among men (p < 0.05) and those aged 45–64 years (p < 0.05). Among current smokers, 8.1% planned to quit within 12 months; 53.4% had no intention of quitting. Overall SHS exposure prevalence was 41.9% (workplace) and 34.1% (at home) over the previous 30 days. The weighted workplace SHS exposure prevalence increased with age. Conclusions: The high proportion of smokers with no intention of quitting and the high level of SHS exposure may constitute one of the most significant barriers to successful smoking cessation in the city. A continued drive to promote full implementation of the WHO FCTC is still needed. Full article

23 pages, 762 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Risk Factors for Salmonella, Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli and Campylobacter Occurrence in Primary Production of Leafy Greens and Strawberries

by Siele Ceuppens¹, Gro S. Johannessen², Ana Allende³, Eduardo César Tondo⁴, Fouad El-Tahan⁵, Imca Sampers⁶, Liesbeth Jacxsens¹ and Mieke Uyttendaele^1,*

¹ Laboratory of Food Microbiology and Food Preservation (LFMFP), Department of Food Safety and Food Quality, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium

² Norwegian Veterinary Institute, P.O. Box 750 Sentrum, 0106 Oslo, Norway

³ Research Group on Quality, Safety and Bioactivity of Plant Foods, Department of Food Science and Technology, CEBAS-CSIC, 30100 Murcia, Spain

⁴ Laboratório de Microbiologia e Controle de Alimentos, Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (ICTA/UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves, 9500, Prédio 43212, Campus do Vale, Agronomia, Cep. 91501-970 Porto Alegre/RS, Brazil

⁵ Royal International Inspection Laboratories (RIIL), Suez 43111, Egypt

⁶ Laboratory of Food Microbiology & Biotechnology, Department of Industrial Biological Sciences, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Kortrijk 8500, Belgium

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9809-9831; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809809 - 18 Aug 2015

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 9027

Abstract

The microbiological sanitary quality and safety of leafy greens and strawberries were assessed in the primary production in Belgium, Brazil, Egypt, Norway and Spain by enumeration of Escherichia coli and detection of Salmonella, Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) and Campylobacter. Water samples [...] Read more.

The microbiological sanitary quality and safety of leafy greens and strawberries were assessed in the primary production in Belgium, Brazil, Egypt, Norway and Spain by enumeration of Escherichia coli and detection of Salmonella, Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) and Campylobacter. Water samples were more prone to containing pathogens (54 positives out of 950 analyses) than soil (16/1186) and produce on the field (18/977 for leafy greens and 5/402 for strawberries). The prevalence of pathogens also varied markedly according to the sampling region. Flooding of fields increased the risk considerably, with odds ratio (OR) 10.9 for Salmonella and 7.0 for STEC. A significant association between elevated numbers of generic E. coli and detection of pathogens (OR of 2.3 for STEC and 2.7 for Salmonella) was established. Generic E. coli was found to be a suitable index organism for Salmonella and STEC, but to a lesser extent for Campylobacter. Guidelines on frequency of sampling and threshold values for E. coli in irrigation water may differ from region to region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Safety)

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16 pages, 425 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Monitoring and Prognosis System Based on the ICF for People with Traumatic Brain Injury

by Laia Subirats^1,2,*

, Raquel Lopez-Blazquez³, Luigi Ceccaroni⁴

, Mariona Gifre³, Felip Miralles¹, Alejandro García-Rudolph³ and Jose María Tormos³

¹ eHealth Department, Eurecat, Roc Boronat, 08018 Barcelona, Spain

² Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Campus UAB, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain

³ Institut Guttmann, Institut Universitari de Neurorehabilitació adscrit a la UAB, Camí de Can Ruti, SN 08916, Badalona, Spain

⁴ 1000001 Labs, Alzina 52, 08024 Barcelona, Spain

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9832-9847; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809832 - 18 Aug 2015

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6164

Abstract

The objective of this research is to provide a standardized platform to monitor and predict indicators of people with traumatic brain injury using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, and analyze its potential benefits for people with disabilities, health centers and [...] Read more.

The objective of this research is to provide a standardized platform to monitor and predict indicators of people with traumatic brain injury using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, and analyze its potential benefits for people with disabilities, health centers and administrations. We developed a platform that allows automatic standardization and automatic graphical representations of indicators of the status of individuals and populations. We used data from 730 people with acquired brain injury performing periodic comprehensive evaluations in the years 2006–2013. Health professionals noted that the use of color-coded graphical representation is useful for quickly diagnose failures, limitations or restrictions in rehabilitation. The prognosis system achieves 41% of accuracy and sensitivity in the prediction of emotional functions, and 48% of accuracy and sensitivity in the prediction of executive functions. This monitoring and prognosis system has the potential to: (1) save costs and time, (2) provide more information to make decisions, (3) promote interoperability, (4) facilitate joint decision-making, and (5) improve policies of socioeconomic evaluation of the burden of disease. Professionals found the monitoring system useful because it generates a more comprehensive understanding of health oriented to the profile of the patients, instead of their diseases and injuries. Full article

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16 pages, 2017 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biosurfactant Production by Bacillus salmalaya for Lubricating Oil Solubilization and Biodegradation

by Arezoo Dadrasnia

and Salmah Ismail^*

Department of Biohealth Science, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9848-9863; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809848 - 19 Aug 2015

Cited by 61 | Viewed by 7902

Abstract

This study investigated the capability of a biosurfactant produced by a novel strain of Bacillus salmalaya to enhance the biodegradation rates and bioavailability of organic contaminants. The biosurfactant produced by cultured strain 139SI showed high physicochemical properties and surface activity in the selected [...] Read more.

This study investigated the capability of a biosurfactant produced by a novel strain of Bacillus salmalaya to enhance the biodegradation rates and bioavailability of organic contaminants. The biosurfactant produced by cultured strain 139SI showed high physicochemical properties and surface activity in the selected medium. The biosurfactant exhibited a high emulsification index and a positive result in the drop collapse test, with the results demonstrating the wetting activity of the biosurfactant and its potential to produce surface-active molecules. Strain 139SI can significantly reduce the surface tension (ST) from 70.5 to 27 mN/m, with a critical micelle concentration of 0.4%. Moreover, lubricating oil at 2% (v/v) was degraded on Day 20 (71.5). Furthermore, the biosurfactant demonstrated high stability at different ranges of salinity, pH, and temperature. Overall, the results indicated the potential use of B. salmalaya 139SI in environmental remediation processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Systems Engineering)

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12 pages, 869 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Epidemiological Characteristics of Work-Related Ocular Trauma in Southwest Region of China

by Mingming Cai¹ and Jie Zhang^2,*

¹ Department of Ophthalmology, The Ninth People's Hospital of Chongqing, 69 Jia Ling Road, Chongqing 400700, China

² Department of Urology, The Ninth People's Hospital of Chongqing, 69 Jia Ling Road, Chongqing 400700, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9864-9875; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809864 - 19 Aug 2015

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 7552

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the epidemiological characteristics of work-related eye injury in representative southwest region of China. Methods: Patients with eye injuries treated at the Ninth People’s Hospital of Chongqing from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2014 were included in the [...] Read more.

Purpose: To determine the epidemiological characteristics of work-related eye injury in representative southwest region of China. Methods: Patients with eye injuries treated at the Ninth People’s Hospital of Chongqing from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2014 were included in the current study. All patients completed a comprehensive examination and interview. Demographic characteristics and injury details were recorded. The International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) and Birmingham Eye Trauma Terminology (BETT) were used. Results: The average age of eye injury patients was 37.52 years and the majority were male. Among the 1055 total patients, approximately 42.9% of the injuries were work-related. The highest proportion of occupational eye trauma was observed in the group between 36 and 45 years of age. Occupational ocular trauma occurred more frequently in summer, with most from 16:00 to 18:00. Metal was the most common injury cause. Foreign body on external eye was the most common diagnosis. Workers in the manufacturing industry without pre-work safety training or eye protection were far more likely to suffer from occupational ocular trauma than those with training and protection. Conclusions: This study provides insight into the epidemiological characteristics of occupational ocular trauma in southwest region of China. The current findings might be considered as a baseline for future research on regional work-related eye injuries. Our findings will provide valuable information for further development of preventive strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Safety and Related Impacts on Health and the Environment)

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13 pages, 682 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pregnancy in Women with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Retrospective Study of 83 Pregnancies at a Single Centre

by Shanying Chen^†, Xuejuan Sun^†, Bide Wu and Xuejian Lian^*

¹ Department of Nephrology, Zhangzhou Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Zhangzhou 363000, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9876-9888; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809876 - 19 Aug 2015

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 6328

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the outcome of 80 pregnant women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and explore the risk factors for lupus flare, obstetric complications and fetal loss. Methods: 83 pregnancies in 80 women were divided into three groups. Group A: patients [...] Read more.

Objective: To evaluate the outcome of 80 pregnant women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and explore the risk factors for lupus flare, obstetric complications and fetal loss. Methods: 83 pregnancies in 80 women were divided into three groups. Group A: patients in remission for > 6 months before pregnancy, proteinuria < 0.5 g per day, without renal failure and discontinuation of cytotoxic drugs for > one year; Group B: patients with SLE disease activity in the six months before pregnancy; Group C: patients with new onset SLE during pregnancy. Results: In group A, 76.47% pregnancies achieved full-term deliveries and 80.39% achieved live born infants. In group B and C, the outcome was poor. Among 62 patients (64 pregnancies) diagnosed as SLE before pregnancy, SLE flares occurred in 27 (42.19%) pregnancies. SLE disease activity in the six months before pregnancy was significantly associated with lupus flare (OR 5.00, 95% CI 1.14–21.87, p = 0.03) and fetal loss. New onset lupus during pregnancy was independently associated with obstetric complications (OR 7.22, 95% CI 2.14–24.38, p = 0.001). Conclusions: The current study confirmed the previous report that SLE should be considered a high risk of pregnancy. If pregnancy is planned after remission for > 6 months, the favorable outcome can be achieved. Full article

18 pages, 3768 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Web—Based Respondent Driven Sampling Pilot Targeting Young People at Risk for Chlamydia Trachomatis in Social and Sexual Networks with Testing: A Use Evaluation

by Kevin Theunissen^1,*, Christian Hoebe^1,2, Gerjo Kok³, Rik Crutzen⁴, Chakib Kara-Zaïtri⁵, Nanne De Vries⁴, Jan Van Bergen^6,7,8, Robert Hamilton⁹, Marianne Van der Sande^6,10 and Nicole Dukers-Muijrers^1,2,*

¹ Department of Sexual Health, Infectious Diseases and Environmental Health, South Limburg Public Health Services, 6160 HA, Geleen, The Netherlands

² Department of Medical Microbiology, School for Public Health and Primary Care (CAPHRI), Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC+), 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands

³ Department of Work & Social Psychology, Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands

⁴ Department of Health Promotion, School for Public Health and Primary Care (CAPHRI), Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC), Maastricht 6202 AZ, The Netherlands

⁵ Faculty of Engineering and Informatics. University of Bradford, Bradford BD7 1DP, UK

⁶ Centre for Infectious Disease Control, RIVM National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven 3720 BA, The Netherlands

⁷ STI AIDS Netherlands, Amsterdam 1016 GB, The Netherlands

⁸ Department of General Practice, AMC-University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1105 AZ, The Netherlands

⁹ In-Fact, Bradford BD17 7DB, UK

¹⁰ Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9889-9906; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809889 - 20 Aug 2015

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6328

Abstract

Background: With the aim of targeting high-risk hidden heterosexual young people for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) testing, an innovative web-based screening strategy using Respondent Driven Sampling (RDS) and home-based CT testing, was developed, piloted and evaluated. Methods: Two STI clinic nurses encouraged 37 CT [...] Read more.

Background: With the aim of targeting high-risk hidden heterosexual young people for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) testing, an innovative web-based screening strategy using Respondent Driven Sampling (RDS) and home-based CT testing, was developed, piloted and evaluated. Methods: Two STI clinic nurses encouraged 37 CT positive heterosexual young people (aged 16–25 years), called index clients, to recruit peers from their social and sexual networks using the web-based screening strategy. Eligible peers (young, living in the study area) could request a home-based CT test and recruit other peers. Results: Twelve (40%) index clients recruited 35 peers. Two of these peers recruited other peers (n = 7). In total, 35 recruited peers were eligible for participation; ten of them (29%) requested a test and eight tested. Seven tested for the first time and one (13%) was positive. Most peers were female friends (80%). Nurses were positive about using the strategy. Conclusions: The screening strategy is feasible for targeting the hidden social network. However, uptake among men and recruitment of sex-partners is low and RDS stopped early. Future studies are needed to explore the sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and impact of strategies that target people at risk who are not effectively reached by regular health care. Full article

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13 pages, 767 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Theoretical Framework for Plastic Waste Management in Ghana through Extended Producer Responsibility: Case of Sachet Water Waste

by Ebo Tawiah Quartey^1,*, Hero Tosefa¹, Kwasi Asare Baffour Danquah¹ and Ilona Obrsalova²

¹ Faculty of Chemical Technology, Institute of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, University of Pardubice, Pardubice 573, 53210, Czech Republic

² Faculty of Economics and Administration, Institute of Administrative and Social Sciences, University of Pardubice, Pardubice, 95, 532 10, Czech Republic,

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9907-9919; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809907 - 20 Aug 2015

Cited by 59 | Viewed by 28119

Abstract

Currently, use and disposal of plastic by consumers through waste management activities in Ghana not only creates environmental problems, but also reinforces the notion of a wasteful society. The magnitude of this problem has led to increasing pressure from the public for efficient [...] Read more.

Currently, use and disposal of plastic by consumers through waste management activities in Ghana not only creates environmental problems, but also reinforces the notion of a wasteful society. The magnitude of this problem has led to increasing pressure from the public for efficient and practical measures to solve the waste problem. This paper analyses the impact of plastic use and disposal in Ghana. It emphasizes the need for commitment to proper management of the impacts of plastic waste and effective environmental management in the country. Sustainable Solid Waste Management (SSWM) is a critical problem for developing countries with regards to climate change and greenhouse gas emission, and also the general wellbeing of the populace. Key themes of this paper are producer responsibility and management of products at end of life. The paper proposes two theatrical recovery models that can be used to address the issue of sachet waste in Ghana. Full article

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18 pages, 3099 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Combining HJ CCD, GF-1 WFV and MODIS Data to Generate Daily High Spatial Resolution Synthetic Data for Environmental Process Monitoring

by Mingquan Wu^1,*, Wenjiang Huang²

, Zheng Niu¹

and Changyao Wang¹

¹ The State Key Laboratory of Remote Sensing Science, Institute of Remote Sensing and Digital Earth, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China

² Laboratory of Digital Earth Sciences, Institute of Remote Sensing and Digital Earth, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100094, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9920-9937; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809920 - 20 Aug 2015

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5857

Abstract

The limitations of satellite data acquisition mean that there is a lack of satellite data with high spatial and temporal resolutions for environmental process monitoring. In this study, we address this problem by applying the Enhanced Spatial and Temporal Adaptive Reflectance Fusion Model [...] Read more.

The limitations of satellite data acquisition mean that there is a lack of satellite data with high spatial and temporal resolutions for environmental process monitoring. In this study, we address this problem by applying the Enhanced Spatial and Temporal Adaptive Reflectance Fusion Model (ESTARFM) and the Spatial and Temporal Data Fusion Approach (STDFA) to combine Huanjing satellite charge coupled device (HJ CCD), Gaofen satellite no. 1 wide field of view camera (GF-1 WFV) and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data to generate daily high spatial resolution synthetic data for land surface process monitoring. Actual HJ CCD and GF-1 WFV data were used to evaluate the precision of the synthetic images using the correlation analysis method. Our method was tested and validated for two study areas in Xinjiang Province, China. The results show that both the ESTARFM and STDFA can be applied to combine HJ CCD and MODIS reflectance data, and GF-1 WFV and MODIS reflectance data, to generate synthetic HJ CCD data and synthetic GF-1 WFV data that closely match actual data with correlation coefficients (r) greater than 0.8989 and 0.8643, respectively. Synthetic red- and near infrared (NIR)-band data generated by ESTARFM are more suitable for the calculation of Normalized Different Vegetation Index (NDVI) than the data generated by STDFA. Full article

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14 pages, 766 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An IBCLC in the Maternity Ward of a Mother and Child Hospital: A Pre- and Post-Intervention Study

by Antonella Chiurco¹, Marcella Montico², Pierpaolo Brovedani¹, Lorenzo Monasta^2,*

and Riccardo Davanzo¹

¹ Division of Neonatology and NICU, Institute for Maternal and Child Health—IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, TS-34137, Italy

² Clinical Epidemiology and Public Health Research Unit, Institute for Maternal and Child Health—IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, TS-34137, Italy

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9938-9951; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809938 - 20 Aug 2015

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 6916

Abstract

Published evidence on the impact of the integration of International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) for breastfeeding promotion is growing, but still relatively limited. Our study aims at evaluating the effects of adding an IBCLC for breastfeeding support in a mother and child [...] Read more.

Published evidence on the impact of the integration of International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) for breastfeeding promotion is growing, but still relatively limited. Our study aims at evaluating the effects of adding an IBCLC for breastfeeding support in a mother and child hospital environment. We conducted a prospective study in the maternity ward of our maternal and child health Institute, recruiting 402 mothers of healthy term newborns soon after birth. The 18-month intervention of the IBCLC (Phase II) was preceded (Phase I) by data collection on breastfeeding rates and factors related to breastfeeding, both at hospital discharge and two weeks later. Data collection was replicated just before the end of the intervention (Phase III). In Phase III, a significantly higher percentage of mothers: (a) received help to breastfeed, and also received correct information on breastfeeding and community support, (b) started breastfeeding within two hours from delivery, (c) reported a good experience with the hospital staff. Moreover, the frequency of sore and/or cracked nipples was significantly lower in Phase III. However, no difference was found in exclusive breastfeeding rates at hospital discharge or at two weeks after birth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Breastfeeding and Infant Health)

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15 pages, 470 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Association between Noise, Cortisol and Heart Rate in a Small-Scale Gold Mining Community—A Pilot Study

by Allyson Green¹, Andrew D. Jones¹, Kan Sun¹ and Richard L. Neitzel^1,2,*

¹ Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

² Risk Science Center, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9952-9966; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809952 - 21 Aug 2015

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 7549

Abstract

We performed a cross-sectional pilot study on salivary cortisol, heart rate, and personal noise exposures in a small-scale gold mining village in northeastern Ghana in 2013. Cortisol level changes between morning and evening among participants showed a relatively low decline in cortisol through [...] Read more.

We performed a cross-sectional pilot study on salivary cortisol, heart rate, and personal noise exposures in a small-scale gold mining village in northeastern Ghana in 2013. Cortisol level changes between morning and evening among participants showed a relatively low decline in cortisol through the day (−1.44 ± 4.27 nmol/L, n = 18), a pattern consistent with chronic stress. A multiple linear regression, adjusting for age, sex, smoking status, and time between samples indicated a significant increase of 0.25 nmol/L cortisol from afternoon to evening per 1 dBA increase in equivalent continuous noise exposure (L_eq) over that period (95% CI: 0.08–0.42, Adj R² = 0.502, n = 17). A mixed effect linear regression model adjusting for age and sex indicated a significant increase of 0.29 heart beats per minute (BPM) for every 1 dB increase in L_eq. Using standard deviations (SDs) as measures of variation, and adjusting for age and sex over the sampling period, we found that a 1 dBA increase in noise variation over time (L_eqSD) was associated with a 0.5 BPM increase in heart rate SD (95% CI: 0.04–−0.9, Adj. R² = 0.229, n = 16). Noise levels were consistently high, with 24-hour average L_eq exposures ranging from 56.9 to 92.0 dBA, with a mean daily L_eq of 82.2 ± 7.3 dBA (mean monitoring duration 22.1 ± 1.9 hours, n = 22). Ninety-five percent of participants had 24-hour average L_eq noise levels over the 70 dBA World health Organization (WHO) guideline level for prevention of hearing loss. These findings suggest that small-scale mining communities may face multiple, potentially additive health risks that are not yet well documented, including hearing loss and cardiovascular effects of stress and noise. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Assessment of Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) in Ghana)

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21 pages, 585 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Monetary Valuation of PM₁₀-Related Health Risks in Beijing China: The Necessity for PM₁₀ Pollution Indemnity

by Hao Yin^1,2, Linyu Xu^1,* and Yanpeng Cai^1,3

¹ State Key Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, No. 19, Xinjiekouwai Street, Haidian District, Beijing 100875, China

² Department of Development and Planning, Danish Centre for Environmental Assessment, Aalborg University, Skibbrogade 5, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark

³ Institute for Energy, Environment and Sustainable Communities, University of Regina, 120, 2 Research Drive, Regina, SK S4S 7H9, Canada

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9967-9987; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809967 - 21 Aug 2015

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 7346

Abstract

Severe health risks caused by PM₁₀ (particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤10 μm) pollution have induced inevitable economic losses and have rendered pressure on the sustainable development of society as a whole. In China, with the “Polluters Pay Principle”, polluters should [...] Read more.

Severe health risks caused by PM₁₀ (particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤10 μm) pollution have induced inevitable economic losses and have rendered pressure on the sustainable development of society as a whole. In China, with the “Polluters Pay Principle”, polluters should pay for the pollution they have caused, but how much they should pay remains an intractable problem for policy makers. This paper integrated an epidemiological exposure-response model with economics methods, including the Amended Human Capital (AHC) approach and the Cost of Illness (COI) method, to value the economic loss of PM₁₀-related health risks in 16 districts and also 4 functional zones in Beijing from 2008 to 2012. The results show that from 2008 to 2012 the estimated annual deaths caused by PM₁₀ in Beijing are around 56,000, 58,000, 63,000, 61,000 and 59,000, respectively, while the economic losses related to health damage increased from around 23 to 31 billion dollars that PM₁₀ polluters should pay for pollution victims between 2008 and 2012. It is illustrated that not only PM₁₀ concentration but also many other social economic factors influence PM₁₀-related health economic losses, which makes health economic losses show a time lag discrepancy compared with the decline of PM₁₀ concentration. In conclusion, health economic loss evaluation is imperative in the pollution indemnity system establishment and should be considered for the urban planning and policy making to control the burgeoning PM₁₀ health economic loss. Full article

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21 pages, 862 KiB

Open AccessReview

E-Cigarettes: A Review of New Trends in Cannabis Use

by Christian Giroud^1,2,3,*, Mariangela De Cesare⁴, Aurélie Berthet^2,3,6, Vincent Varlet^1,2,3, Nicolas Concha-Lozano^2,3,6 and Bernard Favrat^2,3,5,7

¹ Forensic Toxicology and Chemistry Unit, University Center of Legal Medicine (CURML), CH-1000 Lausanne 25, Switzerland

² Department of Community Medicine and Health (DUMSC), Rue du Bugnon 44, CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland

³ Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Rue du Bugnon 46, CH-1011, Lausanne, Switzerland

⁴ Unità di Medicina e Psicologia del Traffico, via Trevano 4, Casella postale 4044, CH-6904 Lugano, Switzerland

⁵ Unit of Traffic Medicine and Psychology, CURML, CH-1005 Lausanne, Switzerland

⁶ Institute for Work and Health (IST), Route de la Corniche 2, CH-1066 Epalinges - Lausanne, University of Lausanne and Geneva, Switzerland

⁷ Center of General Medicine, Department of Ambulatory Care and Community Medicine (PMU), University of Lausanne, Rue du Bugnon 44, CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 9988-10008; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120809988 - 21 Aug 2015

Cited by 183 | Viewed by 39426

Abstract

The emergence of electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) has given cannabis smokers a new method of inhaling cannabinoids. E-cigs differ from traditional marijuana cigarettes in several respects. First, it is assumed that vaporizing cannabinoids at lower temperatures is safer because it produces smaller amounts of [...] Read more.

The emergence of electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) has given cannabis smokers a new method of inhaling cannabinoids. E-cigs differ from traditional marijuana cigarettes in several respects. First, it is assumed that vaporizing cannabinoids at lower temperatures is safer because it produces smaller amounts of toxic substances than the hot combustion of a marijuana cigarette. Recreational cannabis users can discretely “vape” deodorized cannabis extracts with minimal annoyance to the people around them and less chance of detection. There are nevertheless several drawbacks worth mentioning: although manufacturing commercial (or homemade) cannabinoid-enriched electronic liquids (e-liquids) requires lengthy, complex processing, some are readily on the Internet despite their lack of quality control, expiry date, and conditions of preservation and, above all, any toxicological and clinical assessment. Besides these safety problems, the regulatory situation surrounding e-liquids is often unclear. More simply ground cannabis flowering heads or concentrated, oily THC extracts (such as butane honey oil or BHO) can be vaped in specially designed, pen-sized marijuana vaporizers. Analysis of a commercial e-liquid rich in cannabidiol showed that it contained a smaller dose of active ingredient than advertised; testing our laboratory-made, purified BHO, however, confirmed that it could be vaped in an e-cig to deliver a psychoactive dose of THC. The health consequences specific to vaping these cannabis preparations remain largely unknown and speculative due to the absence of comprehensive, robust scientific studies. The most significant health concerns involve the vaping of cannabinoids by children and teenagers. E-cigs could provide an alternative gateway to cannabis use for young people. Furthermore, vaping cannabinoids could lead to environmental and passive contamination. Full article

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11 pages, 244 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Use of the Monocyte-to-Lymphocyte Ratio to Predict Diabetic Retinopathy

by Song Yue^1,†, Jiahua Zhang^1,†, Jingyang Wu¹, Weiping Teng², Lei Liu^1,* and Lei Chen^1,*

¹ Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, No.155 Nanjing North Street, Heping District, Shenyang 110001, China

² Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Endocrine Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 10009-10019; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120810009 - 21 Aug 2015

Cited by 78 | Viewed by 8568

Abstract

Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and the leading cause of blindness in adults. DR pathogenesis has not been fully elucidated, but inflammation is widely accepted to play an important role. Emerging evidence suggests [...] Read more.

Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and the leading cause of blindness in adults. DR pathogenesis has not been fully elucidated, but inflammation is widely accepted to play an important role. Emerging evidence suggests that the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) are novel potential markers of inflammatory responses. The present study aimed to evaluate the associations between DR and the PLR, MLR, and NLR. Patients and Methods: We performed a case-control study involving 247 patients with T2DM. The patients were divided into three groups: 125 control subjects with T2DM, 63 diabetic subjects with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), and 59 patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Results: The mean PLR and NLR were significantly higher in patients with DR compared with patients without DR (p < 0.01, p = 0.02, respectively). The mean MLR in the NPDR group was higher than that of patients without DR, but there were no significant differences among the three groups (p = 0.07). Logistic regression showed that the MLR was an independent risk factor for DR (odds ratio [OR]: 54.574, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.708–1099.907). Based on the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, use of the MLR as an indicator for DR diagnosis was projected to be 2.25, and yielded a sensitivity and specificity of 47.1% and 69.6%, respectively, with an area under the curve of 0.581 (95% CI: 0.510–0.653). Conclusions: The PLR and NLR are significantly increased in the setting of DR. After correcting for possible confounding factors, the MLR was found to be a risk factor for DR. Although the MLR may be pathophysiologically and clinically relevant in DR, its predictive ability was limited. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Health Care and Diabetes)

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19 pages, 584 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Investigation of Organic and Inorganic Mercury Exposure and Blood Pressure in a Small-Scale Gold Mining Community in Ghana

by Mozhgon Rajaee¹, Brisa N. Sánchez², Elisha P. Renne^3,4 and Niladri Basu^1,5,*

¹ Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

² Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

³ Department of Anthropology, University of Michigan, 101 West Hall, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

⁴ Department of Afroamerican and African Studies, University of Michigan, 4700 Haven Hall, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

⁵ Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, 21, 111 Lakeshore Rd., Ste. Anne de Bellevue, QC H9X 3V9, Canada

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 10020-10038; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120810020 - 21 Aug 2015

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 7324

Abstract

There is increasing concern about the cardiovascular effects of mercury (Hg) exposure, and that organic methylmercury and inorganic Hg²⁺ may affect the cardiovascular system and blood pressure differentially. In small-scale gold mining communities where inorganic, elemental Hg exposures are high, little is [...] Read more.

There is increasing concern about the cardiovascular effects of mercury (Hg) exposure, and that organic methylmercury and inorganic Hg²⁺ may affect the cardiovascular system and blood pressure differentially. In small-scale gold mining communities where inorganic, elemental Hg exposures are high, little is known about the effects of Hg on blood pressure. In 2011, we assessed the relationship between Hg exposure and blood pressure (BP) in a cross-sectional study of adults from a small-scale gold mining community, Kejetia, and subsistence farming community, Gorogo, in Ghana’s Upper East Region. Participants’ resting heart rate and BP were measured, and hair and urine samples were provided to serve as biomarkers of organic and inorganic Hg exposure, respectively. Participants included 70 miners and 26 non-miners from Kejetia and 75 non-miners from Gorogo. Total specific gravity-adjusted urinary and hair Hg was higher among Kejetia miners than Kejetia non-miners and Gorogo participants (median urinary Hg: 5.17, 1.18, and 0.154 µg/L, respectively; hair Hg: 0.945, 0.419, and 0.181 µg/g, respectively). Hypertension was prevalent in 17.7% of Kejetia and 21.3% of Gorogo participants. Urinary and hair Hg were not significantly associated with systolic or diastolic BP for Kejetia or Gorogo participants while adjusting for sex, age, and smoking status. Although our results follow trends seen in other studies, the associations were not of statistical significance. Given the unique study population and high exposures to inorganic Hg, the work contained here will help increase our understanding of the cardiovascular effects of Hg. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Assessment of Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) in Ghana)

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17 pages, 465 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Better Antiviral Efficacy Found in Nucleos(t)ide Analog (NA) Combinations with Interferon Therapy than NA Monotherapy for HBeAg Positive Chronic Hepatitis B: A Meta-Analysis

by Wei Wei^1,2, Qinmei Wu^2,3, Jialing Zhou^2,3, Yuanyuan Kong^1,2,* and Hong You^1,2,3,*

¹ Clinical Epidemiology and Evidence-based Medicine Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, 95 Yong-An Road, Beijing 100050, China

² National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, 95 Yong-An Road, Beijing 100050, China

³ Beijing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Liver Cirrhosis, Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, 95 Yong-An Road, Beijing 100050, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 10039-10055; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120810039 - 21 Aug 2015

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 6263

Abstract

Background: The clinical efficacy of nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) combined with interferon (IFN) therapy vs. NAs monotherapy for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) remains inconclusive. The aim of this meta-analysis was to determine whether the NAs plus IFN regimen offers synergistic efficacy that justifies [...] Read more.

Background: The clinical efficacy of nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) combined with interferon (IFN) therapy vs. NAs monotherapy for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) remains inconclusive. The aim of this meta-analysis was to determine whether the NAs plus IFN regimen offers synergistic efficacy that justifies the cost and burden of such a combination therapy in CHB patients. Methods: Related publications covering the period of 1966 to July 2014 were identified through searching MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane library, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, WANFANG, and CNKI database. A total of 17 studies were enrolled, including 6 in English and 11 in Chinese. Then, we established a final list of studies for the meta-analysis by systematically grading the quality and eligibility of the identified individual studies. We used hepatitis B antigen (HBeAg) loss, HBV-DNA undetectable rate, HBeAg seroconversion, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) loss, HBsAg seroconversion, and histological score at the end of treatment for efficacy evaluation. A quantitative meta-analysis (Review Manager, Version 5.1.0) was performed to assess the differences between NAs and IFN combination therapy and NAs monotherapy. Results: Our analysis demonstrated that HBeAg loss (RR = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.32–2.26, p < 0.001), HBV-DNA undetectable rate (RR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.22–2.04, p < 0.001), HBeAg seroconversion (RR = 1.68, 95% CI = 1.36–2.07, p < 0.001), and HBsAg loss (RR = 2.51, 95% CI = 1.32–4.75, p < 0.001) in the combination therapy group were significantly higher than those in the monotherapy group. However, there were no significant differences in HBsAg seroconversion (RR = 4.25, 95% CI = 0.62–29.13, p = 0.14), sustained virological response rates, and biochemical response rates observed between the two groups. The results showed that the combination therapy group had more improved HBV histology than the NAs monotherapy group (RR = 1.14, 95% CI = 0.93–1.39, p = 0.22). Conclusions: NAs and IFN or Peg-IFN combination therapy had a better efficacy in terms of HBeAg loss, HBV-DNA undetectable rate, HBeAg seroconversion, and HBsAg loss, compared to the NA monotherapy group at the end of treatment; however, there was no significant difference in HBsAg seroconversion between the two regimens. Full article

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10 pages, 290 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Accelerating Aerobic Sludge Granulation by Adding Dry Sewage Sludge Micropowder in Sequencing Batch Reactors

by Jun Li^1,2,*, Jun Liu¹, Danjun Wang², Tao Chen², Ting Ma², Zhihong Wang³ and Weilong Zhuo³

¹ College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, No.18 Chao Wang Road, Hangzhou 310014, China

² College of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Zhejiang University of Technology, No.18 Chao Wang Road, Hangzhou 310014, China

³ Zhejiang Zone King Engineering Technology Co. Ltd., 14B, Hangzhou 310000, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 10056-10065; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120810056 - 21 Aug 2015

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 6976

Abstract

Micropowder (20–250 µm) made from ground dry waste sludge from a municipal sewage treatment plant was added in a sequencing batch reactor (R2), which was fed by synthetic wastewater with acetate as carbon source. Compared with the traditional SBR (R1), aerobic sludge granulation [...] Read more.

Micropowder (20–250 µm) made from ground dry waste sludge from a municipal sewage treatment plant was added in a sequencing batch reactor (R2), which was fed by synthetic wastewater with acetate as carbon source. Compared with the traditional SBR (R1), aerobic sludge granulation time was shortened 15 days in R2. Furthermore, filamentous bacteria in bulking sludge were controlled to accelerate aerobic granulation and form large granules. Correspondingly, the SVI decreased from 225 mL/g to 37 mL/g. X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis demonstrated that Al and Si from the micropowder were accumulated in granules. A mechanism hypotheses for the acceleration of aerobic granulation by adding dry sludge micropowder is proposed: added micropowder acts as nuclei to induce bacterial attachment; dissolved matters from the micropowder increase abruptly the organic load for starved sludge to control overgrown filamentous bacteria as a framework for aggregation; increased friction from the movement of micropowder forces the filaments which extend outwards to shrink for shaping granules. Full article

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13 pages, 1633 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Older People’s Perceptions of Pedestrian Friendliness and Traffic Safety: An Experiment Using Computer-Simulated Walking Environments

by Daniela Kahlert^* and Wolfgang Schlicht

Exercise and Health Science, Stuttgart Research Initiative Human Factors in Ageing, Technology, and Environment, University of Stuttgart, Nobelstr. 15, Stuttgart 70569, Germany

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 10066-10078; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120810066 - 21 Aug 2015

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6127

Abstract

Traffic safety and pedestrian friendliness are considered to be important conditions for older people’s motivation to walk through their environment. This study uses an experimental study design with computer-simulated living environments to investigate the effect of micro-scale environmental factors (parking spaces and green [...] Read more.

Traffic safety and pedestrian friendliness are considered to be important conditions for older people’s motivation to walk through their environment. This study uses an experimental study design with computer-simulated living environments to investigate the effect of micro-scale environmental factors (parking spaces and green verges with trees) on older people’s perceptions of both motivational antecedents (dependent variables). Seventy-four consecutively recruited older people were randomly assigned watching one of two scenarios (independent variable) on a computer screen. The scenarios simulated a stroll on a sidewalk, as it is ‘typical’ for a German city. In version ‘A,’ the subjects take a fictive walk on a sidewalk where a number of cars are parked partially on it. In version ‘B’, cars are in parking spaces separated from the sidewalk by grass verges and trees. Subjects assessed their impressions of both dependent variables. A multivariate analysis of covariance showed that subjects’ ratings on perceived traffic safety and pedestrian friendliness were higher for Version ‘B’ compared to version ‘A’. Cohen’s d indicates medium (d = 0.73) and large (d = 1.23) effect sizes for traffic safety and pedestrian friendliness, respectively. The study suggests that elements of the built environment might affect motivational antecedents of older people’s walking behavior. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impacts of the Built Environment on Public Health)

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14 pages, 326 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence of Genes of OXA-23 Carbapenemase and AdeABC Efflux Pump Associated with Multidrug Resistance of Acinetobacter baumannii Isolates in the ICU of a Comprehensive Hospital of Northwestern China

by Wei Jia^1,2, Caiyun Li^1,3, Haiyun Zhang^2,4, Gang Li^1,2, Xiaoming Liu¹ and Jun Wei^1,2,*

¹ Ningxia Key laboratory of Clinical and Pathogenic Microbiology, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China

² Center of Laboratory Medicine, the General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China

³ The Graduate school, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China

⁴ The First People's Hospital of Mudanjiang City, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang 157011, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 10079-10092; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120810079 - 21 Aug 2015

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 6495

Abstract

The objective of this study was to explore the molecular epidemiology and the genetic support of clinical multidrug resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) isolates in an ICU ward of a comprehensive hospital. A total of 102 non-duplicate drug-resistant A. baumannii isolates [...] Read more.

The objective of this study was to explore the molecular epidemiology and the genetic support of clinical multidrug resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) isolates in an ICU ward of a comprehensive hospital. A total of 102 non-duplicate drug-resistant A. baumannii isolates were identified and 93 (91.1%) of them were MDR strains. Molecular analysis demonstrated that carbapenemase genes bla_OXA_-23and bla_OXA_-51were presented in all 93 MDR isolates (100%), but other carbapenemase genes, including bla_OXA_-24, bla_OXA_-58, bla_IMP-1, bla_IMP-4, bla_SIM, and bla_VIM genes were completely absent in all isolates. In addition, genes of AdeABC efflux system were detected in 88.2% (90/102) isolates. Interestingly, an addition to efflux pump inhibitor, reserpine could significantly enhance the susceptibility of MDR isolates to moxifloxacin, cefotaxime, and imipenem (p < 0.01). Clonal relationship analysis further grouped these clinical drug-resistant isolates into nine clusters, and the MDR strains were mainly in clusters A, B, C, and D, which include 16, 13, 25, and 15 isolates, respectively. This study demonstrated that clinical isolates carrying carbapenemase-encoding genes bla_OXA_-23and AdeABC efflux pump genes are the main prevalent MDR A. baumannii, and the co-expression of oxacillinase and efflux pump proteins are thus considered to be the important reason for the prevalence of this organism in the ICU of this hospital. Full article

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13 pages, 253 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence and Characterization of Integrons in Multidrug Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii in Eastern China: A Multiple-Hospital Study

by Jing Chen^1,2, Hong Li³, Jinsong Yang⁴, Rong Zhan¹, Aiping Chen⁴ and Yansheng Yan^2,4,*

¹ Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, No. 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou 350001, China

² School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, No.1 Xueyuan Road, Shangjie Town, Minhou County, Fuzhou 350108, China

³ Department of Pharmaceuticals, Fujian Health College, No. 366 Guankou Road, Jingxi Town, Minhou County, Fuzhou 350101, China

⁴ Fujian Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 76 Jintai Road, Fuzhou 350001, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 10093-10105; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120810093 - 21 Aug 2015

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6345

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this multiple-hospital study was to investigate the prevalence of integrons in multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MDRAB) in Eastern China, and characterize the integron-integrase genes, so as to provide evidence for the management and appropriate antibiotic use of MDRAB infections. [...] Read more.

Objective: The aim of this multiple-hospital study was to investigate the prevalence of integrons in multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MDRAB) in Eastern China, and characterize the integron-integrase genes, so as to provide evidence for the management and appropriate antibiotic use of MDRAB infections. Methods: A total of 425 clinical isolates of A. baumannii were collected from 16 tertiary hospitals in 11 cities of four provinces (Fujian, Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shandong) from January 2009 to June 2012. The susceptibility of A. baumannii isolates to ampicillin/sulbactam, piperacillin/tazobactam, ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, cefepime, aztreonam, meropenem, amikacin, gentamicin, tobramycin, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole/trimenthoprim, minocycline and imipenem was tested, and integrons and their gene cassettes were characterized in these isolates using PCR assay. In addition, integron-positive A. baumannii isolates were genotyped using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) assay, and intI1 gene cassette was sequenced. Results: intI1 gene was carried in 69.6% of total A. baumannii isolates, while intI2 and intI3 genes were not detected. The prevalence of resistance to ampicillin/sulbactam, piperacillin/tazobactam, ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, cefepime, aztreonam, imipenem, meropenem, amikacin, gentamicin, tobramycin, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin and sulfamethoxazole/trimenthoprim was significantly higher in integron-positive A. baumannii isolates than in negative isolates (all p values <0.05), while no significant difference was observed in the prevalence of minocycline resistance (p > 0.05). PFGE assay revealed 27 PFGE genotypes and 4 predominant genotypes, P1, P4, P7 and P19. The PFGE genotype P1 contained 13 extensive-drug resistant and 89 non-extensive-drug resistant A. baumannii isolates, while the genotype P4 contained 34 extensive-drug resistant and 67 non-extensive-drug resistant isolates, appearing a significant antimicrobial resistance pattern (both p values <0.05). Sequencing analysis revealed two gene cassette assays of aacA4-catB8-aadA1 and dfrXII-orfF-aadA2 in MDRAB isolates. Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrate a high prevalence of class 1 integrons in MDRAB in Eastern China, and a greater prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in intI1 gene-positive MDRAB isolates than in negative isolates. Four predominant PFGE genotypes are identified in intI1 gene-positive MDRAB isolates, in which P4 is an epidemic PFGE genotype in Fujian Province, and it has a high proportion of extensive drug resistant A. baumannii. The gene cassette dfrXII-orfF-aadA2 is reported, for the first time, in A. baumannii strains isolated from Fujian Province, Eastern China. Full article

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11 pages, 247 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mindfulness, Physical Activity and Avoidance of Secondhand Smoke: A Study of College Students in Shanghai

by Yu Gao¹ and Lu Shi^2,*

¹ Physical Education Department, Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, Shanghai 200433, China

² Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 10106-10116; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120810106 - 21 Aug 2015

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 6080

Abstract

Introduction: To better understand the documented link between mindfulness and longevity, we examine the association between mindfulness and conscious avoidance of secondhand smoke (SHS), as well as the association between mindfulness and physical activity. Method: In Shanghai University of Finance and [...] Read more.

Introduction: To better understand the documented link between mindfulness and longevity, we examine the association between mindfulness and conscious avoidance of secondhand smoke (SHS), as well as the association between mindfulness and physical activity. Method: In Shanghai University of Finance and Economics (SUFE) we surveyed a convenience sample of 1516 college freshmen. We measured mindfulness, weekly physical activity, and conscious avoidance of secondhand smoke, along with demographic and behavioral covariates. We used a multilevel logistic regression to test the association between mindfulness and conscious avoidance of secondhand smoke, and used a Tobit regression model to test the association between mindfulness and metabolic equivalent hours per week. In both models the home province of the student respondent was used as the cluster variable, and demographic and behavioral covariates, such as age, gender, smoking history, household registration status (urban vs. rural), the perceived smog frequency in their home towns, and the asthma diagnosis. Results: The logistic regression of consciously avoiding SHS shows that a higher level of mindfulness was associated with an increase in the odds ratio of conscious SHS avoidance (logged odds: 0.22, standard error: 0.07, p < 0.01). The Tobit regression shows that a higher level of mindfulness was associated with more metabolic equivalent hours per week (Tobit coefficient: 4.09, standard error: 1.13, p < 0.001). Discussion: This study is an innovative attempt to study the behavioral issue of secondhand smoke from the perspective of the potential victim, rather than the active smoker. The observed associational patterns here are consistent with previous findings that mindfulness is associated with healthier behaviors in obesity prevention and substance use. Research designs with interventions are needed to test the causal link between mindfulness and these healthy behaviors. Full article

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16 pages, 142 KiB

Open AccessReview

Microbiological Food Safety for Vulnerable People

by Barbara M. Lund

Institute of Food Research, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UA, UK,

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 10117-10132; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120810117 - 21 Aug 2015

Cited by 53 | Viewed by 10685

Abstract

Foodborne pathogens are more likely to cause infection and to result in serious consequences in vulnerable people than in healthy adults. People with some increase in susceptibility may form nearly 20% of the population in the UK and the USA. Conditions leading to [...] Read more.

Foodborne pathogens are more likely to cause infection and to result in serious consequences in vulnerable people than in healthy adults. People with some increase in susceptibility may form nearly 20% of the population in the UK and the USA. Conditions leading to increased susceptibility are listed. The main factors leading to foodborne disease caused by major pathogens are outlined and examples are given of outbreaks resulting from these factors. Measures to prevent foodborne disease include procedures based on Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point principles and prerequisite programmes and, especially for vulnerable people, the use of lower-risk foods in place of higher—risk products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Safety)

17 pages, 694 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Population-Based, Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study on Influenza Vaccination Status among Cancer Survivors in Korea

by Myeung Guen Oh¹, Mi Ah Han^2,*

, Na-Ra Yun³, Jong Park², So Yeon Ryu², Dong-Min Kim³ and Seong-Woo Choi²

¹ Department of Internal Medicine, Jeongup Asan Hospital, Jeongup 56153, Korea

² Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Chosun University, Gwangju 61452, Korea

³ Department of Internal Medicine, Chosun University Hospital, Gwangju 61453, Korea

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 10133-10149; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120810133 - 21 Aug 2015

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5155

Abstract

Cancer survivors are at increased risk of developing influenza-related complications. The purpose of this study was to investigate the vaccination coverage among cancer survivors in Korea using the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES). Adult cancer survivors were selected from fourth [...] Read more.

Cancer survivors are at increased risk of developing influenza-related complications. The purpose of this study was to investigate the vaccination coverage among cancer survivors in Korea using the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES). Adult cancer survivors were selected from fourth (2007–2009) and fifth (2010–2012) KNHANES (n = 1156) datasets. General characteristics, cancer-related data, and influenza vaccination status were collected using self-report questionnaires. Chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate the association between influenza vaccination coverage and associated factors. Overall, 51% of survivors were vaccinated. Vaccine prevalence exceeded 75% in those more than 65 years but was only 26% in survivors aged 19–44. Increasing age, low frequency of alcohol consumption, having poor self-rated health, and having a shorter duration since cancer diagnosis were significant predictors of vaccination status among cancer survivors under 65 years of age. Influenza vaccine coverage remains much lower than recommended among cancer survivors, particularly in the younger age groups. Further study is needed to determine the factors that contribute to the lack of vaccination in cancer survivors, despite their increased risk for influenza. Full article

22 pages, 2378 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification of Major Risk Sources for Surface Water Pollution by Risk Indexes (RI) in the Multi-Provincial Boundary Region of the Taihu Basin, China

by Hong Yao^1,2, Weixin Li³ and Xin Qian^1,*

¹ State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China

² School of Geography, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China

³ Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Environmental Protection of China, Nanjing 210042, China

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 10150-10170; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120810150 - 21 Aug 2015

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 6093

Abstract

Environmental safety in multi-district boundary regions has been one of the focuses in China and is mentioned many times in the Environmental Protection Act of 2014. Five types were categorized concerning the risk sources for surface water pollution in the multi-provincial boundary region [...] Read more.

Environmental safety in multi-district boundary regions has been one of the focuses in China and is mentioned many times in the Environmental Protection Act of 2014. Five types were categorized concerning the risk sources for surface water pollution in the multi-provincial boundary region of the Taihu basin: production enterprises, waste disposal sites, chemical storage sites, agricultural non-point sources and waterway transportations. Considering the hazard of risk sources, the purification property of environmental medium and the vulnerability of risk receptors, 52 specific attributes on the risk levels of each type of risk source were screened out. Continuous piecewise linear function model, expert consultation method and fuzzy integral model were used to calculate the integrated risk indexes (RI) to characterize the risk levels of pollution sources. In the studied area, 2716 pollution sources were characterized by RI values. There were 56 high-risk sources screened out as major risk sources, accounting for about 2% of the total. The numbers of sources with high-moderate, moderate, moderate-low and low pollution risk were 376, 1059, 101 and 1124, respectively, accounting for 14%, 38%, 5% and 41% of the total. The procedure proposed could be included in the integrated risk management systems of the multi-district boundary region of the Taihu basin. It could help decision makers to identify major risk sources in the risk prevention and reduction of surface water pollution. Full article

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27 pages, 2562 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of the Bacterial Community Naturally Present on Commercially Grown Basil Leaves: Evaluation of Sample Preparation Prior to Culture-Independent Techniques

by Siele Ceuppens¹, Stefanie Delbeke¹, Dieter De Coninck², Jolien Boussemaere¹, Nico Boon³ and Mieke Uyttendaele^1,*

¹ Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Department of Food Safety and Food Quality, Laboratory of Food Microbiology and Food Preservation (LFMFP), Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium

² Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutics, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (LabFBT), Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium

³ Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Department of Biochemical and Microbial Technology, Laboratory of Microbial Ecology and Technology (LabMET), Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12(8), 10171-10197; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph120810171 - 21 Aug 2015

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 10115

Abstract

Fresh herbs such as basil constitute an important food commodity worldwide. Basil provides considerable culinary and health benefits, but has also been implicated in foodborne illnesses. The naturally occurring bacterial community on basil leaves is currently unknown, so the epiphytic bacterial community was [...] Read more.

Fresh herbs such as basil constitute an important food commodity worldwide. Basil provides considerable culinary and health benefits, but has also been implicated in foodborne illnesses. The naturally occurring bacterial community on basil leaves is currently unknown, so the epiphytic bacterial community was investigated using the culture-independent techniques denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) and next-generation sequencing (NGS). Sample preparation had a major influence on the results from DGGE and NGS: Novosphingobium was the dominant genus for three different basil batches obtained by maceration of basil leaves, while washing of the leaves yielded lower numbers but more variable dominant bacterial genera including Klebsiella, Pantoea, Flavobacterium, Sphingobacterium and Pseudomonas. During storage of basil, bacterial growth and shifts in the bacterial community were observed with DGGE and NGS. Spoilage was not associated with specific bacterial groups and presumably caused by physiological tissue deterioration and visual defects, rather than by bacterial growth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Safety)

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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health, Volume 12, Issue 8 (August 2015) – 101 articles , Pages 8619-10234

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