Showing papers in "Reviews on environmental health in 2021"

Toxicity of carbon tetrachloride, free radicals and role of antioxidants.

Abstract: Several chemicals, including environmental toxicants and clinically useful drugs, cause severe cellular damage to different organs of our body through metabolic activation to highly reactive substances such as free radicals. Carbon tetrachloride is an organic compound of which chemical formula is CCl₄. CCl4 is strong toxic in the kidney, testicle, brain, heart, lung, other tissues, and particularly in the liver. CCl4 is a powerful hepatoxic, nephrotoxic and prooxidant agent which is widely used to induce hepatotoxicity in experimental animals and to create hepatocellular carcinoma, hepatic fibrosis/cirrhosis and liver injury, chemical hepatitis model, renal failure model, and nephrotoxicity model in recent years. The damage-causing mechanism of CCl4 in tissues can be explained as oxidative damage caused by lipid peroxidation which starts after the conversion of CCl4 to free radicals of highly toxic trichloromethyl radicals (•CCl₃) and trichloromethyl peroxyl radical (•CCl₃O2) via cytochrome P450 enzyme. Complete disruption of lipids (i.e., peroxidation) is the hallmark of oxidative damage. Free radicals are structures that contain one or more unpaired electrons in atomic or molecular orbitals. These toxic free radicals induce a chain reaction and lipid peroxidation in membrane-like structures rich in phospholipids, such as mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum. CCl4-induced lipid peroxidation is the cause of oxidative stress, mitochondrial stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress. Free radicals trigger many biological processes, such as apoptosis, necrosis, ferroptosis and autophagy. Recent researches state that the way to reduce or eliminate these CCl4-induced negative effects is the antioxidants originated from natural sources. For normal physiological function, there must be a balance between free radicals and antioxidants. If this balance is in favor of free radicals, various pathological conditions occur. Free radicals play a role in various pathological conditions including Pulmonary disease, ischemia / reperfusion rheumatological diseases, autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, kidney diseases, hypertension, eye diseases, neurological disorders, diabetes and aging. Free radicals are antagonized by antioxidants and quenched. Antioxidants do not only remove free radicals, but they also have anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antithrombotic, antiviral, and anti-carcinogenic activities. Antioxidants contain high phenol compounds and antioxidants have relatively low side effects compared to synthetic drugs. The antioxidants investigated in CCI4 toxicity are usually antioxidants from plants and are promising because of their rich resources and low side effects. Data were investigated using PubMed, EBSCO, Embase, Web of Science, DOAJ, Scopus and Google Scholar, Carbon tetrachloride, carbon tetrachloride-induced toxicity, oxidative stress, and free radical keywords. This study aims to enlighten the damage-causing mechanism created by free radicals which are produced by CCl4 on tissues/cells and to discuss the role of antioxidants in the prevention of tissue/cell damage. In the future, Antioxidants can be used as a therapeutic strategy to strengthen effective treatment against substances with high toxicity such as CCl4 and increase the antioxidant capacity of cells.

Perchlorate - properties, toxicity and human health effects: an updated review.

Abstract: Interest in perchlorate as environmental pollutant has increased since 1997, when high concentrations have been found in the waters of the Colorado River, USA. Perchlorate is very persistent in nature and it is slowly degraded. Although harmful effects of large doses of perchlorate on thyroid function have been proven, the environmental effects are still unclear. The primary objective of the present review is to collect prevailing data of perchlorate exposure and to discuss its impact on human health. The results show that more than 50% of reviewed works found significant associations of perchlorate exposure and human health. This review consists of the following sections: general information of perchlorate sources, its properties and determination methods, role and sources in human body including food and water intake, overview of the scientific literature on the research on the effect of perchlorate on human health from 2010 to 2020. Finally, conclusions and recommendations on future perchlorate studies concerning human exposure are presented.

Environmental disinfection against COVID-19 in different areas of health care facilities: a review.

Abstract: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) originated in bats and human-to-human transmission through respiratory droplets and contact with surfaces of infected aerosol are the main ways of transmitting this virus. Until now, there is no effective pharmaceutical treatment; conclusively it is important to evaluate the types of applied disinfectants in different areas against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus that causes COVID-19. The aim of this review was to summarize the information about environmental disinfection for preventing of COVID-19. We performed a review of the science direct database to find articles providing information on disinfection used for SARS-CoV-2. The extracted results were given the original data on inactivation coronaviruses by disinfectants in different places of health care facilities. The final search recognized that five groups of disinfectants include: chlorine containing disinfectants, alcohol, UV irradiation, Hydrogen peroxide, and other disinfectant were used against SARS-CoV-2 in different environments. Among these groups, bleach (chlorine containing disinfectants) has the most applicability. Also, in many studies by using disinfectants with 62-71% ethanol can reduce coronavirus in contaminated areas. Furthermore, after the using of operating room for COVID-19 patients, hydrogen peroxide and UV irradiation should be used for 24 h before it can be used again. The povidone-iodine or the chlorhexidine, could be recommended when there is a risk of SARS-CoV-2 contamination especially for open wounds. According to the different studies on SARS-CoV-2 disinfection, because of the SARS-CoV-2 can remain in the air and on surfaces, as well as observing individual disinfection guidelines in different hospital areas, disinfection of surfaces is necessary to decrease SARS-CoV-2 spreading. Moreover, the most suggested disinfectants have been limited to bleach and alcohol, it's better to be considered the potential of other disinfectants in different areas.

Complementary and alternative medicine therapies and COVID-19: a systematic review.

Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Despite the high prevalence of coronavirus and various treatment approaches, including complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), there is still no definitive treatment for coronavirus The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of CAM interventions on COVID-19 patients CONTENT: Four databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE) were searched from the inception of databases until July 16, 2020 Keywords included complementary and alternative medicine therapies and Coronavirus SUMMARY AND OUTLOOK: Of the 1,137 studies searched, 14 studies performed on 972 COVID-19 patients entered the systematic review final stage The results showed that different CAM interventions (acupuncture, Traditional Chinese medicine [TCM], relaxation, Qigong) significantly improved various psychological symptoms (depression, anxiety, stress, sleep quality, negative emotions, quality of life) and physical symptoms (inflammatory factors, physical activity, chest pain, and respiratory function) in COVID-19 patients The results showed that various CAM interventions have a positive effect on improving the various dimensions of coronavirus disease but since there are few studies in this regard, further studies using different CAM approaches are recommended

Environmental exposures to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and their role in endometriosis: a systematic literature review.

Abstract: Purpose Endocrine-related diseases and disorders are on the rise globally. Synthetically produced environmental chemicals (endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs)) mimic hormones like oestrogen and alter signalling pathways. Endometriosis is an oestrogen-dependent condition, affecting 10-15% of women of the reproductive age, and has substantial impacts on the quality of life. The aetiology of endometriosis is believed to be multifactorial, ranging from genetic causes to immunologic dysfunction due to environmental exposure to EDCs. Hence, we undertook a systematic review and investigated the epidemiological evidence for an association between EDCs and the development of endometriosis. We also aimed to assess studies on the relationship between body concentration of EDCs and the severity of endometriosis. Method Following PRISMA guidelines, a structured search of PubMed, Embase and Scopus was conducted (to July 2018). The included studies analysed the association between one or more EDCs and the prevalence of endometriosis. The types of EDCs, association and outcome, participant characteristics and confounding variables were extracted and analysed. Quality assessment was performed using standard criteria. Results In total, 29 studies were included. Phthalate esters were positively associated with the prevalence of endometriosis. The majority (71%) of studies revealed a significant association between bisphenol A, organochlorinated environmental pollutants (dioxins, dioxin-like compounds, organochlorinated pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls) and the prevalence of endometriosis. A positive association between copper, chromium and prevalence of endometriosis was demonstrated in one study only. Cadmium, lead and mercury were not associated with the prevalence of endometriosis. There were conflicting results for the association between nickel and endometriosis. The relationship of EDCs and severity of endometriosis was not established in the studies. Conclusion We found some evidence to suggest an association between phthalate esters, bisphenol A, organochlorinated environmental pollutants and the prevalence of endometriosis. Disentangling these exposures from various other factors that affect endometriosis is complex, but an important topic for further research.

Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances scientific literature review: water exposure, impact on human health, and implications for regulatory reform.

Abstract: Among other emerging contaminants in water, per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have garnered international attention from the scientific community on a global scale. Some countries, such as the United States, have found that PFASs are present in humans on a wide scale. Although two PFASs have been widely studied-Perfluorooctanoic acid and Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid-many more PFASs are being created by industry and are either not known, not studied, or both. The objective of this literature review on PFASs is to give an overview of the information available about PFASs related to human exposure. The information from this literature review on the exposure of humans to PFASs through drinking water and the lack of many conventional drinking water treatment systems' ability to remove PFASs (particularly short-chain PFASs) suggests that current regulatory limits are insufficient to adequately protect humans. This is especially true for particularly vulnerable populations such as infants, young children, and developing children (pubescent). The gaps in the current knowledge and in current regulatory approaches could have long-term effects on human health.

Drinking water heavy metal toxicity and chronic kidney diseases: a systematic review.

Abstract: Heavy metals in drinking water can threat human health and may induce several diseases. The association between heavy metals exposure and chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been indicated by few epidemiological studies. We conducted a systematic review of the epidemiologic publications of the association between exposure to heavy metals through drinking water and CKD. Keywords related to heavy metals and kidney diseases on MeSH were identified and searched in PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Ovid-Medline and Web of Science until July 2020. 14 publications met our inclusion criteria and included in the current review. The included articles were conducted on the association between arsenic, cadmium, lead and chromium in drinking water and CKD. Our study could not find strong evidence between heavy exposure to through drinking water and CKD, except for arsenic. The negative association was found between arsenic and lead and glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). The positive correlation was observed between cadmium exposure and urinary N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase (NAG) concentrations, and also arsenic and chromium exposure and kidney injury molecule (KIM-1). Assessment of studies showed an association between arsenic, cadmium, lead and chromium and albuminuria and proteinuria, without CKD outcomes. Current systematic study showed few evidence for exposure to arsenic, cadmium, lead and chromium through drinking water and incidence of kidney problems. However, more epidemiological studies are required to confirm this association.

Knowledge, attitude, practice and clinical recommendations of health care workers towards COVID-19: a systematic review

Abstract: This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, practice, and clinical recommendations of health care workers (HCWs) towards COVID-19 In this systematic review study, international databases (Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus) were searched for the relevant studies published in English from the inception of databases until July 30, 2020 Hoy et al 's tool was used to evaluate the quality of studies All search steps, screening, selection of studies, quality assessment, and data extraction were performed separately by two researchers Out of 3460 articles searched, 28 articles conducted on 16,427 HCWs were included in the study Most of the HCWs had good knowledge (72 2%), a positive attitude (70 9%), and good practice (78 8%) towards COVID-19 The most important clinical recommendation to improve knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) was to provide HCWs with a periodic training program regarding COVID-19 The most important source of information for HCWs on COVID-19 was social networks Despite HCWs' good knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP), it is recommended to periodically review KAP and carry out further studies in different countries as well It is also recommended to use social media to improve KAP © 2020 Mehran Hesaraki et al , published by De Gruyter, Berlin/Boston

Implication of coronavirus pandemic on obsessive-compulsive-disorder symptoms.

Abstract: This review assesses various sources regarding obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms and the coronavirus pandemic via a study of literature related to OCD conditions in the United States, China, the United Kingdom, and India. Coronavirus's morbidity and its status as a global pandemic transmittable from one person to another has subsequently intensified the personal perception of distress. The projected shortage of vital medical equipment to fight coronavirus due to daily increases in COVID-19 cases creates social unrest. The world confronts perpetual news about high numbers of coronavirus cases, more people in quarantine, and more deaths; those not infected feel increasing fear about its proximity. Social media, print media, and electronic sources offer much advice on how to prevent coronavirus infection. Pandemics extend beyond pathophysiology and medical phenomena to associations with intense psychosocial impact. Studies have established that people with existing mental disorders are prone to relapses, the fear of faulty COVID-19 prevention measures, distress, and suicidal thoughts during pandemics. Precautionary measures aim to slow the spread of coronavirus, but these radical repetitive measures create great anxiety in the mental health of individuals suffering from OCD. Despite the nature of their conditions, these people must adhere to routine processes, such as washing hands, wearing masks and gloves, and sanitizing hands. Given the asymptomatic nature of people suffering from OCD, the routine measures for addressing COVID-19 have a hectic and adverse effect on their mental health and their state of relaxation. Through a systematic literature review, this paper provides insight into the coronavirus pandemic's implications for OCD symptoms.

Effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields on flora and fauna, part 1. Rising ambient EMF levels in the environment

Abstract: Ambient levels of electromagnetic fields (EMF) have risen sharply in the last 80 years, creating a novel energetic exposure that previously did not exist. Most recent decades have seen exponential increases in nearly all environments, including rural/remote areas and lower atmospheric regions. Because of unique physiologies, some species of flora and fauna are sensitive to exogenous EMF in ways that may surpass human reactivity. There is limited, but comprehensive, baseline data in the U.S. from the 1980s against which to compare significant new surveys from different countries. This now provides broader and more precise data on potential transient and chronic exposures to wildlife and habitats. Biological effects have been seen broadly across all taxa and frequencies at vanishingly low intensities comparable to today's ambient exposures. Broad wildlife effects have been seen on orientation and migration, food finding, reproduction, mating, nest and den building, territorial maintenance and defense, and longevity and survivorship. Cyto- and geno-toxic effects have been observed. The above issues are explored in three consecutive parts: Part 1 questions today's ambient EMF capabilities to adversely affect wildlife, with more urgency regarding 5G technologies. Part 2 explores natural and man-made fields, animal magnetoreception mechanisms, and pertinent studies to all wildlife kingdoms. Part 3 examines current exposure standards, applicable laws, and future directions. It is time to recognize ambient EMF as a novel form of pollution and develop rules at regulatory agencies that designate air as 'habitat' so EMF can be regulated like other pollutants. Wildlife loss is often unseen and undocumented until tipping points are reached. Long-term chronic low-level EMF exposure standards, which do not now exist, should be set accordingly for wildlife, and environmental laws should be strictly enforced.

Pesticide applicators and cancer: a systematic review

Abstract: The objective of the study was to identify and analyse the research done on the occurrence of cancer among pesticide applicators by conducting a systematic review of the scientific literature. PRISMA Guidelines was followed to conduct the study. Search was done in Scopus, PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE and Google Scholar databases with search terms "PESTICIDE APPLICATORS", "CANCER" using Boolean operator "AND". Meta-analysis and review articles were excluded from the study. A total of 32 studies were identified among which the average sample size was found to be 60,521. Increased RRs/ORs and positive exposure-response relationships were observed for 31 pesticides. Organophosphate and organochlorine classes of pesticides were the most to be associated with cancer. Lung cancer was observed the most followed by prostate, multiple myeloma and colon cancers among pesticide applicators. It was concluded that there is an increased risk of cancer among the pesticide applicators, whereby which bringing into focus the need to educate and train the workers on following adequate safety measures and making them aware of the hazardous chemicals. Further evaluation on the carcinogenicity of pesticides is also required.

Temporal assessment of municipal solid waste management in Nigeria: prospects for circular economy adoption.

Abstract: This work reviewed the past and current status of municipal solid waste (MSW) management in Nigeria towards offering a direction for the future. The past status shows that poor policy regimes, inadequate financing mechanisms, absence of waste data, and abysmal institutional arrangement negatively impacted the MSW management outcomes in the country. At present, few improvements recorded like an increase in the number of landfills, and public-private partnerships have been largely undermined by the continuous upsurge in the urban population and lack of corresponding growth in critical capacities in terms of economic resources, technological advancement, and state-of-the-art urban infrastructures. The current waste generated in cities in Nigeria is calculated as 66,828 tonnes per day (TPD) at the total urban population of 106 million, while the projected value for 2040 will be 125,473 TPD at the urban population of 199 million. The current work further discusses prospects and implications for circular economy adoption in solid waste valorization in Nigeria.

Urban aquaponics farming and cities- a systematic literature review.

Abstract: An aquaponic system is considered to be a sustainable food production solution that follows circular economy principles and the biomimetic natural system to reduce input and waste. It is the combination of two mainly productive systems, a recirculating aquaculture system consists of fish and crustaceans farmed in a tank and hydroponic cultivation consists of vegetable cultured in medium other than soil. Both these systems are well-known around the globe by their performance of production, quality, and verified food safety. An aquaponic system is an industrious mechanism which incorporates impeccably with sustainable growth of intensive agriculture. The existing literature regarding the aquaponic production covers different species of vegetables and fish, a variety of layouts of system, and climate conditions. However, there is a lack of knowledge that can systematically present the existing state-of-the-artwork in a systematic manner. So to overcome this limitation, the proposed research presents a systematic literature review in the field of urban aquaponics. This systematic literature review will help practitioners to take help from the existing literature and propose new solutions based on the available evidence in urban aquaponics.

An investigation of the effects of environmental and ecologic factors on cutaneous leishmaniasis in the old world: a systematic review study.

Abstract: Objectives Leishmaniasis is a neglected and widespread parasitic disease that can lead to serious health problems. The current review study aimed to synthesize the relationship between ecologic and environmental factors (e.g., weather conditions, climatology, temperature and topology) and the incidence of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in the Old World. Content A systematic review was conducted based on English, and Persian articles published from 2015 to 2020 in PubMed/Medline, Science Direct, Web of Science and Google Scholar. Keywords used to search articles were leishmaniasis, environmental factors, weather condition, soil, temperature, land cover, ecologic* and topogr*. All articles were selected and assessed for eligibility according to the titles or abstracts. The quality screening process of articles was carried out by two independent authors. The selected articles were checked according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Summary and outlook A total of 827 relevant records in 2015-2020 were searched and after evaluating the articles, 23 articles met the eligibility criteria; finally, 14 full-text articles were included in the systematic review. Two different categories of ecologic/environmental factors (weather conditions, temperature, rainfall/precipitation and humidity) and land characteristics (land cover, slope, elevation and altitude, earthquake and cattle sheds) were the most important factors associated with CL incidence. Conclusions Temperature and rainfall play an important role in the seasonal cycle of CL as many CL cases occurred in arid and semiarid areas in the Old World. Moreover, given the findings of this study regarding the effect of weather conditions on CL, it can be concluded that designing an early warning system is necessary to predict the incidence of CL based on different weather conditions.

The indicators and methods used for measuring urban liveability: a scoping review.

Abstract: OBJECTIVES Liveability is a multi-dimensional and hierarchical concept which consists of various criteria and sub-criteria and may be evaluated in different ways. The aim of this study was to systematically review indicators and methods used for the evaluation of urban liveability in literature. CONTENT The five-stage methodological framework of Arksey and O'Malley was used to conduct this scoping review. A systematic search of electronic databases, including Scopus, Medline (via PubMed), Embase, Web of Science and EBSCO was done until May 29, 2019. Web searching, searching reference lists and hand searching was also conducted to retrieve more relevant articles. Two reviewers screened the papers for eligibility based on the inclusion criteria and extracted their key data and reported them descriptively. SUMMARY Sixty seven (67) out of 3,599 papers met the selection criteria. This review showed five distinct domains considered to be important components of liveability. These were Economical, Environmental, Institutional, Social, and Governance (Political) domains. The most important subdomains (indices) which were frequently applied in various studies were Environmental friendliness and Sustainability, Socio-Cultural Conditions and Economic Vibrancy and Competitiveness. We also identified seven different methodologies and six ranking tools used for assessing urban liveability. Among the quantitative methods, three methods accounted for 89.6% of the articles. These methods were the Analytical hierarchy process and entropy (AHP; n=24; 50%), Factor analysis & Principle Component Analysis (FA & PCA; n=12; 25%) and Spatial Multi-criteria Decision-making Method (Spatial; n=7; 14.6%). Among the ranking tools used, three ranking tools accounted for 65.4% of the articles. These tools were the Livable City Scientific Evaluation Standards (LCSES; n=9; 34.6%), The Global Liveable Cities Index (GLCI; n=4; 15.4%) and the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU; n=4; 15.4%). OUTLOOK This paper discusses and summarizes the latest indicators and methods used for determining urban liveability. The information offered in the review can help future investigators to decide which method suits their purpose and situation better and measure urban liveability more systematically than before.

The use of indoor plant as an alternative strategy to improve indoor air quality in Indonesia.

Abstract: Indoor air pollution marked with decreased air quality below the set standard. The quality of indoor air is determined by ambient air quality as well as by a harmful substance resulting from the household activity. Indoor air pollution may cause several problems such as sick building syndrome, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, lung cancer, and is responsible for nearly two million death in developing countries. One of the interesting research topics to overcome the indoor air pollution problem is the application of indoor plants. Although there are no established criteria to specify the best indoor plant, several studies have revealed the capability of a particular indoor plant to remove the harmful substances. This paper summarizes important information about indoor air pollution and provides the evidence-based insight of indoor plant usefulness as an alternative way for indoor air remediation.

Effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields on flora and fauna, Part 2 impacts: how species interact with natural and man-made EMF.

Abstract: Ambient levels of nonionizing electromagnetic fields (EMF) have risen sharply in the last five decades to become a ubiquitous, continuous, biologically active environmental pollutant, even in rural and remote areas. Many species of flora and fauna, because of unique physiologies and habitats, are sensitive to exogenous EMF in ways that surpass human reactivity. This can lead to complex endogenous reactions that are highly variable, largely unseen, and a possible contributing factor in species extinctions, sometimes localized. Non-human magnetoreception mechanisms are explored. Numerous studies across all frequencies and taxa indicate that current low-level anthropogenic EMF can have myriad adverse and synergistic effects, including on orientation and migration, food finding, reproduction, mating, nest and den building, territorial maintenance and defense, and on vitality, longevity and survivorship itself. Effects have been observed in mammals such as bats, cervids, cetaceans, and pinnipeds among others, and on birds, insects, amphibians, reptiles, microbes and many species of flora. Cyto- and geno-toxic effects have long been observed in laboratory research on animal models that can be extrapolated to wildlife. Unusual multi-system mechanisms can come into play with non-human species - including in aquatic environments - that rely on the Earth's natural geomagnetic fields for critical life-sustaining information. Part 2 of this 3-part series includes four online supplement tables of effects seen in animals from both ELF and RFR at vanishingly low intensities. Taken as a whole, this indicates enough information to raise concerns about ambient exposures to nonionizing radiation at ecosystem levels. Wildlife loss is often unseen and undocumented until tipping points are reached. It is time to recognize ambient EMF as a novel form of pollution and develop rules at regulatory agencies that designate air as 'habitat' so EMF can be regulated like other pollutants. Long-term chronic low-level EMF exposure standards, which do not now exist, should be set accordingly for wildlife, and environmental laws should be strictly enforced - a subject explored in Part 3.

Mechanistic targets for BPH and prostate cancer–a review

Abstract: All men, almost, suffer from prostatic disorders in average life expectancy. In the year of 1950s, the first autopsy of prostate gland discovered the link between Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and Prostate Cancer (PCa). After that, many histology, biochemistry, epidemiology studies explained the association and associated risk factor for the same. From the various scientific evidence, it is proved that both diseases share some common transcription factors and signalling pathways. Still, BPH cannot be considered as the first step of PCa progression. To define, the relationship between both of the diseases, a well-defined large epidemiological study is needed. Along with androgen signalling, imbalanced apoptosis, oxidative stress, and microbial infection also crucial factors that significantly affect the pathogenesis of BPH. Various signalling pathways are involved in the progression of BPH. Androgen signalling is the driving force for the progress of PCa. In PCa androgen signalling is upregulated as compared to a healthy prostate. Some dominant Androgen-regulated genes and their functions have been discussed in this work.

Review of the scientific evidence on the individual sensitivity to electromagnetic fields (EHS).

Abstract: Part of the population considers themselves as sensitive to the man-made electromagnetic radiation (EMF) emitted by powerlines, electric wiring, electric home appliance and the wireless communication devices and networks. Sensitivity is characterized by a broad variety of non-specific symptoms that the sensitive people claim to experience when exposed to EMF. While the experienced symptoms are currently considered as a real life impairment, the factor causing these symptoms remains unclear. So far, scientists were unable to find causality link between symptoms experienced by sensitive persons and the exposures to EMF. However, as presented in this review, the executed to-date scientific studies, examining sensitivity to EMF, are of poor quality to find the link between EMF exposures and sensitivity symptoms of some people. It is logical to consider that the sensitivity to EMF exists but the scientific methodology used to find it is of insufficient quality. It is time to drop out psychology driven provocation studies that ask about feelings-based non-specific symptoms experienced by volunteers under EMF exposure. Such research approach produces only subjective and therefore highly unreliable data that is insufficient to prove, or to disprove, causality link between EHS and EMF. There is a need for a new direction in studying sensitivity to EMF. The basis for it is the notion of a commonly known phenomenon of individual sensitivity, where individuals' responses to EMF depend on the genetic and epigenetic properties of the individual. It is proposed here that new studies, combining provocation approach, where volunteers are exposed to EMF, and high-throughput technologies of transcriptomics and proteomics are used to generate objective data, detecting molecular level biochemical responses of human body to EMF.

Lost opportunities for cancer prevention: historical evidence on early warnings with emphasis on radiofrequency radiation

Abstract: Some historical aspects on late lessons from early warnings on cancer risks with lost time for prevention are discussed. One current example is the cancer-causing effect from radiofrequency (RF) radiation. Studies since decades have shown increased human cancer risk. The fifth generation, 5G, for wireless communication is about to be implemented world-wide despite no comprehensive investigations of potential risks to human health and the environment. This has created debate on this technology among concerned people in many countries. In an appeal to EU in September 2017, currently endorsed by more than 400 scientists and medical doctors, a moratorium on the 5G deployment was required until proper scientific evaluation of negative consequences has been made (www.5Gappeal.eu). That request has not been taken seriously by EU. Lack of proper unbiased risk evaluation of the 5G technology makes adverse effects impossible to be foreseen. This disregard is exemplified by the recent report from the International Commission on non-ionizing radiation protection (ICNIRP) whereby only thermal (heating) effects from RF radiation are acknowledged despite a large number of reported non-thermal effects. Thus, no health effects are acknowledged by ICNIRP for non-thermal RF electromagnetic fields in the range of 100 kHz-300 GHz. Based on results in three case-control studies on use of wireless phones we present preventable fraction for brain tumors. Numbers of brain tumors of not defined type were found to increase in Sweden, especially in the age group 20-39 years in both genders, based on the Swedish Inpatient Register. This may be caused by the high prevalence of wireless phone use among children and in adolescence taking a reasonable latency period and the higher vulnerability to RF radiation among young persons.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, occupational exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields and electric shocks: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract: Exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) and electric shocks occurs in many workplaces and occupations but it is unclear whether any of these exposures cause Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to explore whether occupational exposure to ELF-MF and/or electric shocks are risk factor for ALS. We searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases up to the end of 2019. Pooled risk estimates were calculated using random-effects meta-analysis including exploration of the sources of heterogeneity between studies and publication bias. Twenty-seven publications fulfilled the inclusion criteria. We found a weak, significant, association between occupational exposure to ELF-MF and the risk of ALS (RRPooled estimate: 1.20; 95%CI: 1.05, 1.38) with moderate to high heterogeneity (I2=66.3%) and indication of publication bias (PEgger's test=0.03). No association was observed between occupational exposure to electric shocks and risk of ALS (RRPooled estimate: 0.97; 95%CI: 0.80, 1.17) with high heterogeneity (I2=80.5%), and little indication for publication bias (PEgger's test=0.24). The findings indicate that occupational exposure to ELF-MF, but not electric shocks, might be a risk factor for ALS. However, given the moderate to high heterogeneity and potential publication bias, the results should be interpreted with caution.

Ambient air pollution and multiple sclerosis: a systematic review.

Abstract: Objectives Some studies have shown that environmental risk factors, including air pollution, might be related to the incidence or recurrence of multiple sclerosis (MS). This systematic review was conducted to investigate the relation between air pollution and MS. Methods A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Embase, and Web of Science; until January 2020 with no restrictions. The search strategy was conducted with air pollution key words such as CO, PM2.5, PM10, SO2, and NO2, for exposure and the key word "Multiple sclerosis" as the outcome. Results Eventually, after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 17 articles were included. The methodologies and outcomes reported were heterogeneous and different metrics had been used in the results; therefore conducting a meta-analysis was not possible. Eight studies had analyzed the relation between particulate matter (PM) and the prevalence or relapse of MS and had observed a significant relation. NO2 and NOx were associated with recurrence or prevalence of MS in three studies. But, in three cohort studies, no association was observed between air pollution and recurrence or occurrence of MS. Conclusions The results of this systematic review show that outdoor air pollution, especially PM and nitrogen oxides might be related to the prevalence or relapse of MS.

Radiation protection among health care workers: knowledge, attitude, practice, and clinical recommendations: a systematic review

Abstract: Objectives This study was performed to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of health care workers (HCWs) towards radiation protection. Methods In this systematic review study, three international databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus) were searched for related published articles in the English language from 1 January 2000 to 1 February 2020. The quality of the included studies was evaluated using the Hoy et al. tool. Results Out of the 1,848 studies examined, 41 studies that were performed on 11,050 HCWs were included in the final stage. The results indicated that in most studies, more than half (50%) of the participants had average knowledge. Furthermore, 60% of the participants had a positive attitude, but in most studies, they had average practice regarding radiation protection. The most important recommendation for improving KAP among the participants was incorporating radiation protection standards in the student curriculum. Conclusion Considering the results of the study, further attention should be paid to proper education regarding radiation protection standards and improvement of HCW performance.

Air pollutants and impairments of male reproductive health-an overview.

Abstract: Excessive air pollution, both ambient and indoor are might be detrimental to human wellbeing and are related to morbidity and mortality, it may also affect the reproductive function and its outcome It is a recognized fact that air pollution contains several toxicants, gases, particulate matter, toxic metals etc Some of them might affect reproductive and developmental process and a few are persistent The information accessible on air pollution to human male reproduction is stated to affect semen quality by diminishing one or more sperm quality parameters ie, sperm morphology, concentration, motility etc and may causes sperm DNA damage, these might alter the fertility potential which in turn affect pregnancy or its outcome The impact might be related to the pollutant's concentration and duration of exposure The data on impact of air contamination on endocrine function are inadequate, inconsistence and the diversity of existence of air contaminants in area to area and multiplicity in semen quality parameters assessed in various studies as well as study design variables complicated the problem of evaluation of impact of air pollution on male reproduction The data available suggests the air pollution is might be injurious to human male reproductive health, which depends upon amounts of air pollutants in the air, duration of exposure etc but more comprehensive data are needed to substantiate the findings The data are also needed on indoor air pollution on reproduction as people are might be subjected to greater quantities of some of the indoor air pollutants as compared to ambient air pollution

Effects of ambient air pollution on psychological stress and anxiety disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiological evidence

Abstract: Objectives Ambient air pollution (AAP) is an important risk factor for increased mental health morbidity. Studies have highlighted the effect of AAP on psychological stress and anxiety disorder. However, existing evidence regarding this is largely equivocal. This systematic review with meta-analysis aims to synthesize published evidence to calculate the pooled estimate of the effect of AAP on psychological stress and anxiety disorder. Content A systematic bibliographic search was undertaken using PubMed, JGateplus, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library for observational human studies published in English till 31st March 2020 reporting the effect of AAP on psychological stress and anxiety disorder. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools. Meta-analysis was performed adopting a random-effects model using Meta-XL. Of 412 articles retrieved, a total of 30 articles [AAP and anxiety disorders, (n=17, 57%); AAP and psychological stress, (n=9, 30%) and AAP and both psychological stress and anxiety disorders, (n=4, 13%)] fulfilled the inclusion criteria covering a total population of 973,725 individuals. The pooled estimate (OR) of the effects of PM10 on psychological stress was 1.03 [(95% CI: 1.00, 1.05) (p=0.17, I 2=41%)]. The pooled estimate of the effects of NO2 and PM10 on anxiety disorder was 0.93 [(95% CI: 0.89, 0.97) (p=0.91, I 2=0%)] and 0.88 [(95% CI: 0.78, 0.98) (p=0.01, I 2=59%)] respectively. The pooled estimate of the effects of PM2.5 on anxiety Disorder was 0.88 [(95% CI: 0.72, 1.06) (p=0.00, I 2=80%)]. Summary and outlook The present study provides the most updated pooled estimate of the effect of AAP on psychological stress and anxiety disorder. Future studies should focus on longitudinal studies conducted in LIC and LMIC countries using uniform and standardized criteria for exposure and outcome assessment as well as robust adjustment for confounders to minimize methodological heterogeneity resulting in reliable and comparable estimation of environmental mental health burden.

Current knowledge on urease and nitrification inhibitors technology and their safety.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE Urea is one of the most widely used commercial fertilisers worldwide due to its high N density and cost effectiveness. However, it can be lost in the form of gaseous ammonia and other greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions which can potentially lead to environmental pollution. Farmers are compelled to apply more urea to account for those losses, thereby increasing their expenditure on fertilization. The objective of this paper is to present a literature review on current knowledge regarding inhibitor technologies such as urease inhibitor; n-(N-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT), and nitrification inhibitor; dicyandiamide (DCD). METHODS A thorough review of all the scientific literature was carried out and a proposed risk assessment framework developed. RESULTS The study showed that the urease inhibitor NBPT significantly reduced NH3 loss from urea. However, concerns about NBPT safety to human health had been raised when the nitrification inhibitor DCD appeared as a residue in milk. This article presents a risk assessment framework for evaluating human exposure to chemicals like NBPT or DCD, following the consumption of foods of animal origin (e.g. milk) from cows grazing on inhibitor-treated pasture. CONCLUSION The EU's target of a 40% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 can be aided by using NBPT as part of an overall suite of solutions. A comprehensive risk assessment is advised for effective evaluation of potential risks from exposure to these inhibitors.

Water and wastewater as potential sources of SARS-CoV-2 transmission: a systematic review.

Abstract: An important group of viruses are Coronaviruses that affect the health of people worldwide, in particular the acute respiratory syndrome. The present work has addressed the updated literature on the topic of coronaviruses transmission through water and wastewater as well as identified gaps in research to inform future studies. In total, 198 articles were selected, then after screening, 48 eligible studies were fully reviewed. Accordingly, the studies showed that the coronavirus has been isolated and identified from water as well as wastewater. The results of researches show that the presence of SARS-Co-2 virus in municipal wastewater is possible due to the excretion of the virus in human feces. In addition, the SARS-Co-2 virus was isolated from contaminated water and rivers, but there is insufficient evidence for virus transmission by water and wastewater. Water and wastewater treatment methods are able to reduce the pollution load caused by this virus in water sources. Water disinfection has an effective role in removing it from water and wastewater sources. Due to the short period of time in the global pandemic and the small number of studies in this field, further studies are needed to make a definite statement about the transferability of virus in water and wastewater.

Millimeter (MM) wave and microwave frequency radiation produce deeply penetrating effects: the biology and the physics.

Abstract: Millimeter wave (MM-wave) electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are predicted to not produce penetrating effects in the body. The electric but not magnetic part of MM-EMFs are almost completely absorbed within the outer 1 mm of the body. Rodents are reported to have penetrating MM-wave impacts on the brain, the myocardium, liver, kidney and bone marrow. MM-waves produce electromagnetic sensitivity-like changes in rodent, frog and skate tissues. In humans, MM-waves have penetrating effects including impacts on the brain, producing EEG changes and other neurological/neuropsychiatric changes, increases in apparent electromagnetic hypersensitivity and produce changes on ulcers and cardiac activity. This review focuses on several issues required to understand penetrating effects of MM-waves and microwaves: 1. Electronically generated EMFs are coherent, producing much higher electrical and magnetic forces then do natural incoherent EMFs. 2. The fixed relationship between electrical and magnetic fields found in EMFs in a vacuum or highly permeable medium such as air, predicted by Maxwell's equations, breaks down in other materials. Specifically, MM-wave electrical fields are almost completely absorbed in the outer 1 mm of the body due to the high dielectric constant of biological aqueous phases. However, the magnetic fields are very highly penetrating. 3. Time-varying magnetic fields have central roles in producing highly penetrating effects. The primary mechanism of EMF action is voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC) activation with the EMFs acting via their forces on the voltage sensor, rather than by depolarization of the plasma membrane. Two distinct mechanisms, an indirect and a direct mechanism, are consistent with and predicted by the physics, to explain penetrating MM-wave VGCC activation via the voltage sensor. Time-varying coherent magnetic fields, as predicted by the Maxwell-Faraday version of Faraday's law of induction, can put forces on ions dissolved in aqueous phases deep within the body, regenerating coherent electric fields which activate the VGCC voltage sensor. In addition, time-varying magnetic fields can directly put forces on the 20 charges in the VGCC voltage sensor. There are three very important findings here which are rarely recognized in the EMF scientific literature: coherence of electronically generated EMFs; the key role of time-varying magnetic fields in generating highly penetrating effects; the key role of both modulating and pure EMF pulses in greatly increasing very short term high level time-variation of magnetic and electric fields. It is probable that genuine safety guidelines must keep nanosecond timescale-variation of coherent electric and magnetic fields below some maximum level in order to produce genuine safety. These findings have important implications with regard to 5G radiation.

Balancing incomplete COVID-19 evidence and local priorities: risk communication and stakeholder engagement strategies for school re-opening.

Abstract: In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, United States (U.S.) educational institutions must weigh incomplete scientific evidence to inform decisions about how best to re-open schools without sacrificing public health. While many communities face surging case numbers, others are experiencing case plateaus or even decreasing numbers. Simultaneously, some U.S. school systems face immense infrastructure challenges and resource constraints, while others are better positioned to resume face-to-face instruction. In this review, we first examine potential engineering controls to reduce SARS-CoV-2 exposures; we then present processes whereby local decision-makers can identify and partner with scientists, faculty, students, parents, public health officials, and others to determine the controls most appropriate for their communities. While no solution completely eliminates risks of SARS-CoV-2 exposure and illness, this mini-review discusses engaged decision and communication processes that incorporate current scientific knowledge, school district constraints, local tolerance for health risk, and community priorities to help guide schools in selecting and implementing re-opening strategies that are acceptable, feasible, and context-specific.

The aflatoxin B1 content of peanut-based foods in Iran: a systematic review.

Abstract: BACKGROUNDS One of the common consumed snacks among Iranian is nuts. The aim of this systematic review was to determine the rate of peanut contamination with aflatoxin B1 (AfB1) in different provinces of the Iran. MATERIALS AND METHODS The research studies with keywords "aflatoxin B1", "peanut", "peanut butter", "peanut oil", "coated peanut", "roasted peanut", "snack peanut" were searched in PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Google Scholar and scientific information databases (SID), regardless of publication time. A total of 43 studies were obtained and only six articles were finally selected according to exclusion and inclusion criteria. Margin of Exposure (MOE) and Hazard Quotient (HQ) were also calculated to evaluate the oral exposure of AfB1 through peanuts and peanut-based products. RESULTS The contamination of AFB1 in peanut was high in Mashhad and Tehran compared with the other cities. The value of MOE was calculated less than 10,000. The results of MOE indicate that there are chances of the risk of developing cancer and these products may not be safe. Therefore, AFB1 levels should be measured regularly in peanut products in large cities.