Microscopic
fungi and their metabolites in dwellings - a bioassay study
Ing. Elena Piecková1, M.P.H., Ph.D., MUDr. Zdenka Jesenská1, Dr., Sc., Ken Wilikins2, Ph.D.
1Institute of Preventive and Clinical Medicine, Bratislava, Slovakia, Institute of Preventive and Clinical Medicine, Limbová 14, SK-83301 Bratislava, Slovakia; tel.: +421 7 59369172-3; fax: +421 7 54773906;
2National
Institute of Occupational Health, Copenhagen, Denmark; Correspondence address:
Elena Piecková; IPCM, Limbová 14; SK-83301 Bratislava; Slovakia; e-mail:
pieckova@upkm.sanet.sk
Abstract
The
ciliostatic effect of chloroform-extractable endo- and exocellular metabolites
of the most frequently isolated fungal strains from growth in dwellings: Alternaria
sp., Aspergillus glaucus group, A.
versicolor, Cladosporium sphaerospermum, Penicillium sp., P. chrysogenum,
Stachybotrys chartarum, Trichoderma viride and Ulocladium
sp. was studied on tracheal cilia from day old chicks in vitro. Biomass
extracts from Alternaria sp. and A.
versicolor as well as exocellular extracts from P.
chrysogenum, S. chartarum I, T. viride and Ulocladium
sp. stopped cilia movement during the first 24 hours. Biomass extracts of P.
chrysogenum, S. chartarum I and T.
viride as well as media extracts from Alternaria
sp., C. sphaerospermum and Penicillium
sp. stopped cilia movement between 24 and 48 hours. Between 48 and 72 hours
the biomass extract of an A. glaucus
gr. isolate and media extracts of A. versicolor and S.
chartarum II showed activity while the other extracts (cellular from C.
sphaerospermum, S. chartarum II and Ulocladium
sp. and media one from A. glaucus
gr.) showed no activity. The results are discussed in relationship with health
status of people living/working in moldy buildings.
Key
words:
indoor
environment, chronic respiratory symptoms, microscopic fungi, fungal
chloroform-extractable endo- and exometabolites, cilliated epithelium, tracheal
organ cultures, ciliostatic effect.
Moisture,
mold and health in apartment homes
A.
Nevalainen, Ph.D., M. Vahteristo, M.Sc., J. Koivisto, Civ.Eng., T. Meklin, M.Sc.,
A. Hyvärinen, M.Sc., J. Keski-Karhu, M.Sc., T. Husman, M.D.
National
Public Health Institute, Division of Environmental Health, POB 95, FIN-70701
Kuopio, Finland, tel. +358-17-201 342, fax +358-17-201 155, e-mail
aino.nevalainen@ktl.fi
Abstract
The
prevalence of observations of moisture or mold, and the respiratory health
status of the occupants, was surveyed in a random sample of 120 apartment
buildings. The buildings and two apartments from each were given a walk-through
inspection and all the signs of moisture and mold recorded using questionnaires
and checking lists by civil engineers. A health questionnaire was sent to the
occupants. In 60% of the apartments, signs of moisture damage could be observed,
and 42% of the apartments were assessed to be in need of repair because of the
moisture observations. Respiratory symptoms, such as cough, nocturnal cough and
dyspnea, sore throat, hoarseness, rhinitis, nasal bleeding and impaired sense of
smell were significantly associated with the observations of moisture, as well
as sinusitis (OR=2.58). When the exposure was defined as mold present the
symptom findings were almost similar. The results show the health-based
importance of good maintenance.
Key
words:
Toxigenic
microbes in indoor environment: identification, structure and biological effects
of the aerosolizing toxins
Salkinoja-Salonen
M.S.1 *, Ph.D., Prof. (Microbiol.), Andersson M.A.1, M.Sc. (Microbiol.), Mikkola
R.1, M.Sc.(Chem.), Paananen A.2, B.Sc. (Biochem.), Peltola J.1, M.
Agr.&For., Mussalo-Rauhamaa H.3,M.D.,Ph.D., Vuorio R.1,Ph.D.(Microbiol.),
Saris N.-E.4, Ph.D., Prof. emer. (Med. Chem.), Grigorjev P.5, Ph.D. (Biophys.),
Helin J. 6, Ph.D. (Biochem.), Koljalg, U.7, Ph.D. (Mycol.), Timonen T.2 U.,
M.D., Docent (Immunol.)
1Dept.
of Appl. Chem. & Microb., POB 56, FIN 00014, Univ. of Helsinki, Finland;
2Haartman Inst., Univ. of Helsinki, POB 21, FIN00014, Univ. of Helsinki, Finland;
3Helsinki University Central Hospital, Dept of Dermatology and Allergic Diseases,
Meilahdentie 2, FIN 00250 Finland; 4Institute of Biomedicine, Univ. of Helsinki,
POB 9, FIN00014 Univ. of Helsinki, Finland; 5Institute of Cell Biophysics,
Russian Acad. of Sci., Pushshino, Moscow Region, RU-142292, Russia; 6Inst. of
Biotechnology, Univ. of Helsinki, POB 56 FIN 00014, Univ. of Helsinki; 7Estonian
Acad. Sci., Inst. of Zoology and Botany, 181 Ria St, EE2400, Tartu Estonia
Corresponding
author, M.S. Salkinoja-Salonen, Dept of Appl Chem & Microbiol, POB 56, FIN
00014 University of Helsinki, Finland, Tel +358 (0)9 70859300, Fax +358 (0)9
70859301, Email: mirja.salkinoja-salonen@helsinki.fi
Abstract
Almost
500 pure cultures, bacteria and fungi, were isolated and identified to genus or
species level from indoor environments where the occupants were suffering health
problems. Over 80 different taxa were identified. Seven bacterial species
classified to Hazard Group 2 were found. Extracts prepared from the building
materials and from the pure cultures, were tested for their effects on cellular
energy production and conservation using boar spermatozoon and human NK cells as
test cells. Strains giving toxic responses were found among strains from 11 taxa.
Cell free extracts prepared from cultures of Bacillus cereus, Bacillus
licheniformis, Streptomyces griseus, a new species of Nocardiopsis, Stachybotrys
chartarum and Trichoderma sp were shown to contain toxins that depleted the
spermatozoon of ATP and destroyed plasma membrane integrity. Strains of
Streptomyces griseus and Bacillus cereus were shown to produce toxins that
caused mitochondrial swelling and programmed NK-cells towards apoptosis. These
toxins were dodecadepsipeptides and operated as K+ ionophores across the
mitochondrial membrane. Strains of Bacillus licheniformis and Trichoderma
produced toxins that depleted the spermatozoon of ATP. The toxins were
nonenzymatic, highly hydrophobic, robust molecules of small size (<104
g mol-1), effective at low concentration (ppb). We propose that the
building related health symptoms of the occupants exposed to one or several of
the taxa indicated above, may be caused by microbially emitted toxins. We
discuss possible mechanisms of human toxicity.
An
Assessment of the occurrence of mould bioaerosols in the in- and outdoor
ENVIRONMENT of shacks in Durban, SOUTH AFRICA
N.
Gqaleni1, Ph.D., S. Danaviah, B.Sc. Hons., S. Bux, M.Med.Sc. AA.Chuturgoon, M.Sc.,
M.F. Dutton, Ph.D.
1Department
of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Natal, Private Bag 7, Congella
4013, South Africa, Tel:+ 27 31 260 4275, Fax:+ 27 31 260 4455, Email: gqalenin@med.and.ac.za
ABSTRACT
The
occurrence of fungal aerosols in the shacks of Malukazi squatter settlement (Durban,
South Africa) was investigated. An initial questionnaire survey was conducted in
15 homes (shacks) and 10 reference homes followed by detailed measurements of
indoor and outdoor bioaerosols using an Anderson sampler. Surface moulds,
whenever visible, were sampled and identified. Temperature and relative humidity
were also monitored. About 40% (19 out 49) of children in the study homes
compared to 20% (reference) reported frequent respiratory tract (RT) symptoms.
Most of the shacks lacked proper ventilation and showed signs of dampness and
mouldiness. Indoor fungal contaminant levels in control homes were lower than or
comparable to those outdoor, whereas 9 of the 15 (60%) shacks showed higher
indoor mould levels. It was in these homes that most RT symptoms were reported.
Predominant airborne fungal organisms identified included Aspergillus
and Penicillium.
Key
words:
EVALUATION
OF EXPOSURE TO ENVIRONMENTAL BACTERIA
Laitinen
Sirpa, Ph.D., Kangas Juhani, Ph.D.
Kuopio
Regional Institute of Occupational Health, Kuopio Regional Institute of
Occupational Health, PO Box 93, FIN-70701 Kuopio, Finland, Tel: +358-17-201211,
Fax: +358-17-201474
Abstract
The
present study provides information about the methods used to determine airborne
bacteria in occupational environments. The best means proved to be the analysis
of filter samples with endotoxin and peptidoglycan assays. The results of the
assay, which measures the biological activity of cell wall components, mainly
endotoxins, correlated well with the measured concentrations of viable airborne
bacteria, especially with the levels of gram-negative bacteria. The endotoxin
analyzed by chemical markers did not correlate well with the results of the
assay nor with the viable bacteria levels, despite the similarity between the
bacterial species identified from the culture media and the corresponding 3-OH
fatty acids analyzed by the GC-MS assay. Indicative information on total
bacteria levels could be obtained from peptidoglycans, which correlated well
with total viable bacteria.
Key
words:
Bacteria,
determination, endotoxin, exposure, environment, peptidoglycan
Analysis of Microbial Contamination of a Ventilation System Detected by Measurement of Microbial Volatile Organic CompoundS
Marion
J. Fedoruk1, M.D., C.I.H., Steven Uhlman, CIH, Dean B. Baker, M.D., M.P.H.,
Haiou Yang, Ph.D.
1Associate
Clinical Professor, University of California, Irvine Center for Occupational
Health, Orange, CA
Measurement
of atmospheric microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) has been identified
as a method to assess microbial growth in indoor environments. Complex mixtures
of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including alcohol, ketones, aldehydes,
aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons, sulfur-based compounds, amines, and
terpenes are known to be produced by microbial metabolism (Burge, 1995).
The
measurement of atmospheric MVOCs has several potential advantages in identifying
building microbial amplification sites compared to measurements of atmospheric
fungi or bacteria. MVOC analysis may also serve as a sensitive marker of
microbial growth. Periods of high mold spore production may be preceded by
increased MVOC production (Abramson et al. 1983). MVOCs are gases and can
readily disperse throughout a building and potentially penetrate barriers such
as vinyl wallpaper and polyethylene sheeting (Strom, 1994). Such barriers may
impede spore transport. MVOC analysis can potentially identify indoor microbial
amplification sites before there are any visible signs of growth, especially if
the growth is present in poorly accessible areas or areas that are not subject
to direct inspection (Borjesson, 1990).
MVOC
analysis has not been widely utilized in the assessment of building microbial
problems for several reasons. The factors responsible for stimulating and
modulating MVOC production and metabolism in fungi and bacteria have not been
well characterized. Although fungal growth as measured by carbon dioxide
production has been correlated with MVOCs, data on specific MVOC production
associated with individual fungi and bacteria are scant (Borjesson, 1990).
The
interpretation of MVOC results is difficult since there is limited information
on concentrations that represent normal or typical indoor values. VOCs that have
been identified as being produced by fungi and bacteria can also be generated by
other biogenic sources including trees and algae. The other limiting factor is
the concern that indoor MVOC concentration may not be related to other measures
of fungal activity (Miller, 1988). MVOC testing is also more costly than many
other tests commonly used to assess indoor microbial problems.
Using
data from an office building in California, this study demonstrates that
measurement of MVOCs can be an investigation tool to assess hidden bioaerosol
sources when there is a high index of suspicion of a source, and, especially,
when other environmental tests fail to identify a problem.
Mycobacteria
and related genera are major colonizers of a wall in a children’s day care
center
Maria
Andersson1* M.Sc. Ph. D., Irina Tsitko2 M.Sc. Ph.D., Riitta Vuorio3 Ph.D., Mirja
S. Salkinoja-Salonen4 Ph.D.
1
Student, 2 Student, 3 Researcher, 4 Academy Professor, Dept. of Applied
Chemistry and Microbiology, University of Helsinki FIN-00014, Finland, 1*
Corresponding author, Maria Andersson, Dept. of Applied Chemistry and
Microbiology, POB 56 Helsinki University FIN 000140 FINLAND, FAX +358 9
70859301, phone +358 9 70859339
Abstract
We
quantitated and identified the cultivatable CMN (Nocardioform actinomycetes)
taxons in water damaged and undamaged gypsum liners from an indoor wall in a
children's day care center. The bacteria were characterized chemotaxonomically
and their 16S rDNA sequenced. In the water damaged site most frequently isolated
bacteria were CMN taxons; Dietzia sp (105 cfu g-1) and a
new rapidly growing Mycobacterium species, Mycobacterium murale sp. nov1, (106
cfu g-1). M. murale was found to be closely related to the pathogen
M. abscessus. One of M. murale strains was able to grow on toluene which is
contained in commonly used cleaning agents in day care centers. The only CMN
taxon found in the non water damaged liner was representative of a new genus,
Williamsia muralis gen. nov. sp. nov.. (103 cfu g-1).
Environmental mycobacteria, related to pathogenic species may survive and
proliferate in water damaged indoor building materials.
Key
words:
Cellular
and humoral responses in an animal model inhaling Penicillium chrysogenum spores
J.
Danny Cooley1, Ph.d., Wing C. Wong1, M.S., Cynthia A Jumper2, M.D., David C.
Straus1, Ph.D.
Departments
of Microbiology and Immunology1 and Medicine2 at Texas Tech University Health
Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
ABSTRACT
Penicillium
chrysogenum (Pc) is a potential causative agent of the complaints and symptoms
of occupants in buildings experiencing “sick building syndrome”. Viable Pc
spores were recovered from the lungs of mice 15 minutes and 3 hours through 36
hours after intranasal (IN) inoculation of 1x106 spores, of which 25%
were viable. Eighteen percent of the viable spores were deposited in the lungs,
however, by 12 h, only 1x104 viable spores were recovered. This
suggests that the mucociliary tract had cleared the majority of spores
deposited, but four percent (1x104) of the viable spores were
retained in the airways and were probably deposited in the alveolar spaces and
remained viable for up to 36 h post-inoculation. Similar acute doses of viable
spores induced significant (P<0.001) increases in tumor necrosis factor a
(TNF-a), while non-viable (NV) Pc spores did not. Repeated doses (3 weeks) of
1x104 viable spores induced significant (P<0.05) increases in
total serum IgE and bronchioalveolar lavage (BAL) interleukin-4 (IL-4), whereas
1x104 NV spores did not. This suggests that viable Pc spores are
capable of inducing allergic responses.
Key
words:
Sporulation
of the Hyphomycete Stachybotrys chartarum Under Three Light Conditions
Patricia
Heinsohn1, Ph.D., C.I.H., Sharon Harney, Ph.D., K. Alexandros Exuzides, Ph.D.
1
Exponent, 149 Commonwealth Drive, Menlo Park, CA 94025, phone (650) 688-1767
fax: (650) 688-1799; 2 Forensic Analytical, 3777 Depot Road, Suite 409, Hayward,
California 94545-2756; 3 Exponent, 149 Commonwealth Drive, Menlo Park, CA 94025
Abstract
Stachybotrys
chartarum is a widespread hyphomycete commonly isolated from a variety of
substrates including soil and wood. It can be found growing in building
materials, which have become wet before or after construction. The inhalation of
S. chartarum conidia can cause pneumomycotoxicoses, and a recent study linked S.
chartarum to the deaths of infants diagnosed with pulmonary hemosiderosis in
Cleveland. While S. chartarum is frequently isolated, the conditions under which
it sporulates are unknown and are important issues in assessing indoor air
quality. This study reports on the sporulation of S. chartarum under three
different artificial light conditions. Two isolates of S. chartarum were
inoculated onto two different media, MEA and CMA, and exposed to either 24 hour
dark, a light/dark cycle, or 24 hour light. After growth initiation, growth rate
and degree of sporulation were measured. Results indicate that growth rate and
degree of sporulation differ with light conditions and media. On CMA the initial
growth rate under 24 hour light was higher than under light/dark and 24 hour
dark. Light/dark conditions were more conducive to early sporulation whereas 24
hour dark delayed sporulation. Sporulation did not occur under any light
condition on MEA for six days. The data indicate that under favorable growth
conditions, S. chartarum can sporulate under any light condition. Therefore, S.
chartarum growing in buildings in dark areas can sporulate for dissemination
into the air.
Key
words:
MYCOTOXIN
SPECTRA AS A BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETER FOR OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL FUNGUS
EXPOSURE
M.
Müller1*, Ph.D., J. Bünger, M.D., E. Hallier, M.D., Prof.
Center
of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Department of Occupational and
Social Medicine, Georg-August-University, Waldweg 37, D-37073 Göttingen,
Germany, Address of authors: E. Hallier, M.D., Prof., M. Müller, Ph.D.*, J. Bünger,
M.D., Department of Occupational and Social Medicine, Georg-August-University,
Waldweg 37, D-37073 Göttingen, Germany, Phone: 49-551-394950, Fax:
49-551-396184, e-mail: ehallie@gwdg.de, mmuelle3@gwdg.de, jbuenge@gwdg.de; 1*
Address correspondence to this author at the Department of Occupational and
Social Medicine, Georg-August-University, Waldweg 37, D-37073 Göttingen,
Germany,
ABSTRACT
Mycotoxins
are metabolites formed by molds in foodstuffs, fodder and organic waste
materials. All molds produce specific mycotoxins and species can be
characterized by their mycotoxin spectra. We have established a method for
mycotoxin extraction from defined cultures. HPLC separation with diode array
detection or iontrap mass spectro-metry and comparison to an authentic standards
library was used to screen seven Aspergillus
and Penicillium species collected at
waste treatment plants for their major mycotoxins. The human hepatocarcinogen
sterigmatocystin was detected in Aspergillus
versicolor and Aspergillus nidulans.
Verruculogen, a potent tremorgen, and fumagillin, formerly used as a cytostatic
drug, are mycotoxins found in Aspergillus
fumigatus. Penicillium crustosum and Penicillium
brevicompactum each produced the tremorgens roquefortine C and penitrem A.
The mycotoxin standards library can be used to identify specific mold species in
ambient air samples from environmental and occupational investigations.
Key
words:
Mycotoxin
spectra, mold exposure, biochemical parameter, growth conditions, Aspergil-lus,
Penicillium, carcinogen, tremorgen
Production
of Mycotoxins on water damaged building materials
Kristian
Fog Nielsen1,2,*, M.Sc. Chem. Eng., Ph.D.stud., Suzanne Gravesen1, M.Sc..
1
Energy and Indoor Climate Division, Danish Building Research Institute, Dr.
Neergaards Vej 15, DK-2970 Hørsholm, Denmark, Phone no. + 45 45 86 55 33, Fax.
no. + 45 45 86 75 35, kfn@ibt.dtu.dk;2 Biology, Senior Researcher, Department of
Biotechnology, Technical University of Denmark, Building 221, DK-2800 Lyngby,
Denmark, Phone no. +45 45 93 30 66, Fax. no. + 45 45 88 49 22; sug@sbi.dk; *
Corresponding author
Abstract
The
ability to produce mycotoxins during growth on inoculated building materials was
investigated for Penicillium chrysogenum,
P. polonicum, P. brevicompactum, Chaetomium spp., Aspergillus ustus, A. niger,
Ulocladium spp., and Alternaria spp.
Both isolates of P. polonicum produced
3-methoxy-viridicatin, verrucosidin, and verrucofortine. Of five isolates of P.
brevicompactum two produced mycophenolic acid. C.
globosum produced the toxic chaetoglobosins A and C. No toxin production was
detected from any of the five isolates of P.
chrysogenum. Alternariol and alternariol monomethyl ether were detected from
all five isolates of Alternaria arborescens-group and A. tenuissima-group. No
known mycotoxins were detected from Ulocladium
spp., and A. ustus. A. niger
produced several naphtho-g-pyrones and tetra cyclic compounds. All investigated
species, especially A. ustus and A.
niger produced many unknown secondary metabolites.
Analyses
of naturally infested materials showed that Aspergillus
versicolor produced sterigmatocystin and 5-methoxysterigmatocystin C.
globosum produced the chaetoglobosins A and C, and P.
chrysogenum produced the non toxic meleagrin.
Key
words:
Mycotoxin, chaetoglobosin, Chaetomium globosum,
Aspergillus, Penicillium, Ulocladium, Alternaria, chaetoglobosin,
alternariol, sterigmatocystin, Indoor, building.
MEMBRANE
TOXIC SUBSTANCES IN WATER-DAMAGED CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS AND FUNGAL PURE
CULTURES
Peltola1*
Joanna, M. agr. for., Andersson1 MariaM M.Sc. M. agr. for., Mikkola1 Raimo M.Sc.
M. agr. for., Mussalo-Rauhamaa2 Helena, Ph.D., M.D., Salkinoja-Salonen1 Mirja S.
Academy Professor (Microbiology)
1
University of Helsinki, Department of Applied Chemistry and Microbiology,
Division of Microbiology, PO Box 56, FIN-00014 University of Helsinki, Finland;
2 Helsinki University Central Hospital, Departments of Dermatology and Allergic
Diseases, Clinic for Indoor Air Health Problems, Meilahdentie 2, FIN-00250
Helsinki, Finland; 1* Corresponding author, Joanna Peltola, University of
Helsinki, Department of Applied Chemistry and Microbiology, Division of
Microbiology, PO Box 56, FIN-00014 University of Helsinki, Finland, Tel. +358-(0)9-70859305,
Fax. +358-(0)9-70859301, Email: joanna.peltola@helsinki.fi
Abstract
We
showed toxic substances in and isolated toxin producing microbes from
water-damaged building materials. The toxins were extracted from the building
materials and microbial cultures in methanol and analysed using boar spermatozoa
as test cells. The fungal genera isolated from the toxic materials were
identified as representatives of Stachybotrys
chartarum, Aspergillus, Alternaria, and Penicillium.
We found that toxin from the building materials and from four fungal isolates
paralysed sperm cell motility and damaged cell membrane at low concentrations
(EC50 < 10 mg of methanol soluble solids ml-1 of extended boar semen). The
toxic isolates were identified to Stachybotrys chartarum. The toxin from one
Stachybotrys chartarum strain was partially purified. To our knowledge, this is
the first demonstration of membrane damaging toxin and their producer fungi from
the building material.
Key
words
Effects
of Stachybotrys chartarum spores and toxin on alveolar surfactant phospholipid
composition and concentration in mice.
Sumarah1
M.W., Rand1 T.G., Oulton2 M., Mason1 C.D., MacDonald2 J., Anthes2 M.
1
Department of Biology, Saint Mary's University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; 2
Department of Physiology and Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dalhousie University,
Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
ABSTRACT
Surfactant
is an important phospholipid-rich surface coating material produced by alveolar
type II cells. It promotes lung stability by reducing the surface tension of the
air-alveolar interface, and serves in alveolar defense. In this study, we
evaluated the effects of Stachybotrys chartarum conidia and a trichothecene,
isosatratoxin-F, on the concentration of phospholipids in alveolar surfactant
subtypes in mice. Alveolar surfactant phospholipid content in the total
surfactant and the different metabolic subfractions of lung lavage fluid of mice
showed some significant changes within 24 h post-exposure, compared to the
surfactant from control mice which were either untreated, exposed to saline or
Cladosporium cladosporioides spores. In both the S. chartarum- and the
isosatratoxin F-treated mice, exposure significantly increased
lysophosphatidylcholine (LP) concentrations in total surfactant. Exposure to S.
chartarum also resulted in an increased sphingomyelin (SP) and
phosphatidylserine (PS) and depressed phosphatidylcholine (PC) content in
surfactant. The isosatratoxin F-treated mice also supported depressed
phosphatidylinositol (PI) and phosphatidylglycerol (PG) surfactant
concentrations. Compared to both of the controls, S. chartarum-treated mice had
significantly elevated SP in the P10 subfraction, phosphatidylserine (PS) in the
P60 and P100 subfractions and significantly elevated PC content in the LB
fraction. These mice also showed significant depressed PC content in the P10
subfraction. Isosatratoxin-F-treated mice had significantly elevated PC and PE
concentrations in the P10 and P60 subfractions and depressed PE concentrations
in the P100 subfraction. In contrast, C. cladosporioides-exposed mice showed
significant elevations in PE and PC in the P10 subfraction and LB fraction,
respectively, and a significant depression in SP concentration in the LB
fraction. While the mechanisms of cytotoxicity are unclear, these results reveal
that alveolar type II cells are sensitive to exposure to S. chartarum conidia
and to isosatratoxin F. Sensitivity is manifest by alterations in the normal
metabolic processing of alveolar surfactant. In exposed mice, this effect
appears to involve significant changes in the content of phospholipids in total
and fractionated surfactant from mice. These results further indicate that
alveolar type II cells show high sensitivity toward S. chartarum conidia and
toxins, and support our earlier hypothesis that S. chartarum influences both
synthesis and secretion of pulmonary surfactant in the lung.
DIFFERENT
METHODS TO CHARACTERIZE MOLDY BUILDINGS
Toivola1 Mika, B.Sc., Reiman2 Marjut, Ph.D.; Hyvärinen3 Anne, M.Sc.; Meklin4 Teija, M.Sc.; Nevalainen Aino, Ph.D.
1
National Public Health Institute of Finland, Division of Environmental Health,
Laboratory of Environmental Microbiology; 2 Kuopio Regional Institute of
Occupational Health, Kuopio, Finland; 3 National Public Health Institute of
Finland, Division ofEnvironmental Health, Laboratory of Environmental
Microbiology; 4. National Public Health Institute of Finland, Division of
Environmental Health, Laboratory of Environmental Microbiology; 5 National
Public Health Institute of Finland, Division ofEnvironmental Health, Laboratory
of Environmental Microbiology; Correspondence: Mika Toivola, National Public
Health Institute, P.O.Box 95, 70701 Kuopio, Finland, Phone:+358 17 201211,
Fax:+358 17 201155, e-mail: mika.toivola@ktl.fi
ABSTRACT
Different
methods were evaluated for their potential to show unusual microbial conditions
in a building. The buildings studied were schools and offices. The buildings
were inspected for visible signs of moisture by a civil engineer. Samples were
taken from the air, surfaces and structures. Indoor air concentrations of viable
microbes were higher in moldy than reference buildings. This difference could
not be seen in the total counts of biological particles. In most cases, the
concentrations of microbes on the surfaces were low. In some cases microbial
concentrations were high in material samples although no contamination could be
seen in surface swab samples from the same damage area. With one sample or one
method alone, the conclusion of the mold problem in the building could not
necessarily be drawn.
Key
words:
Comparative
studies of collection efficiency of airborne fungal matter using Andersen
single-stage sampler and Air-O-Cell cassettes
Stella
M. Tsai1, M.Sc., Chin S. Yang1, Ph.D., Patrick Moffett2, Andrew Puccetti3,
Ph.D., C.I.H.
1
P&K Microbiology Services, Inc., Cherry Hill, NJ 08034, Phone: (609)
427-4044, Fax: (609) 427-0232; 2 Environmental Management and Engineering, Inc.,
Huntington Beach, CA; 3 Irvine, CA
Abstract
The
collection efficiency of airborne fungal matter using the Andersen single-stage
sampler and Zefon Air-O-Cell cassettes was compared in this study. A total of
814 sets of samples were collected. The correlation coefficient (r) between
these two methods was at 0.33 (p < 0.05) for total fungal matter and at 0.29
(p < 0.05) for Cladosporium. The correlation coefficient (r) between the
total fungal and Cladosporium concentrations collected from Andersen air samples
and Air-O-Cell cassettes was at 0.78 (p < 0.05) and 0.62 (p < 0.05),
respectively. Stachybotrys-like spores were detected in 74 Air-O-Cell samples.
Stachybotrys chartarum was detected in 5 Andersen samples. Four sets of samples
showed Stachybotrys chartarum on both Air-O-Cell and Andersen air samples.
Key
words:
Trichothecene
mycotoxins in some water-damaged buildings
Tapani
Tuomi1 Ph.D., Lauri Saarinen M.Sc., Sanna Lappalainen Lic. Phil., Outi Lindroos
M.Sc., Marjo Nikulin Ph.D., Kari Reijula M.D., Ph.D.
Finnish
Institute of Occupational Health (FIOH), Uusimaa Regional Institute, Arinatie 3
A, 00370 Helsinki, Finland, Indoor Air and Environment Program of the FIOH, 1
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed (fax 358-9-5061087, e-mail
tapani.tuomi@occuphealth.fi)
Abstract
Bulk
samples of moldy interior finishes, settled dust, contact inoculated
microbiological samples (mixed cultures), as well as pure cultures isolated from
indoor environments, were subjected to the qualitative and semi-quantitative
simultaneous analysis of 12 trichothecenes. The analysis method was developed as
a result of the present study and it includes extraction, sample pre-treatment
and reverse-phase HPLC-separation with following tandem mass spectrometric
identification and quantitation using electrospray ionization on a quadrupole
ion trap mass analyzer.
Similarly
to previous studies on fodder or foods, contaminated with trichothecene
producing moulds, diacetoxyscirpenol and T-2 toxin were the most prevalent
trichothecenes. Apart from these, 3-acetyl-deoxynivalenol, T-2 tetraol,
verrucarol and roridin A were occasionally present, particularly in samples
contaminated with Fusaria or Stachybotrys spp. Satratoxins G and H were also
found on rare occasions, especially from sites with a severe occurrence of
Stachybotrys spp. All examined sites were Finnish water-damaged buildings, with
confirmed health implications, resulting from fungal propagation.
Key
words:
SARCOIDOSIS
AND EXPOSURE TO OCCUAPTIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL AGENTS
Carol
Ortiz, M.P.H., Michael Hodgson, M.D., M.P.H., Daniel McNally, M.D., Eileen
Storey, MD, MPH
Divisions
of Occupational and Environmental Medicine and Pulmonary Diseases, Department of
Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030-6210,
address correspondence to: UCHC MC 6210, Farmington, CT 06030-6210, email:
@nso.uchc.edu
Supported
in part by grants NIEHS. 1 KO7-ES00305-01, and by EPA R825251 -01 -0
ABSTRACT
An
index patient with sarcoidosis that appeared reversibly related to a school
generated a case-control study. All 59 patients seen between 1992 and 1997 in a
pulmonary division, and unmatched controls from orthopedic surgeons, received
two copies of a self-administered questionnaire inquiring about occupational and
environmental histories. Thirty-one (52.2%) of the patients and ninety-four
(32.4%) of the controls responded. Patients were significantly more likely to
have been exposed to inorganic dusts (odds ratio [OR] 3.48; 95% confidence
interval [95%CI]: 1.02 - 11.80), molds (OR 9.8; 95%CI: (0.98 - 98.40) and
solvents or oils in the work place (OR: 9.8; 95%CI: (1.60 - 48.0) than controls.
They described exposure at home through moldy basements (OR: 2.37; 95% CI: 1.0,
5.8) or mold on bathroom walls (OR: 5.69; 95% CI 1.3-25.6) more frequently than
controls. Sarcoidosis may represent a disease at least in part attributable to
occupational and environmental exposures.
Key
words:
IMMUNOCHEMICAL
DETECTION OF MYCOTOXINS ASSOCIATED WITH STACHYBOTRYOTOXICOSIS
R.
Dietrich1, Ph.D., E. Johanning2, M.D., M.Sc., M. Gareis3, D.V.M., Ph.D., Prof.,
E. Schneider1, Ph.D., E. Usleber1, Ph.D., E. Märtlbauer1, Ph.D., Prof.
1
Institute for Hygiene and Technology of Food of Animal Origin, Veterinary
Faculty, University of Munich, Veterinaerstrasse 13, D-80539 Munich, Germany; 2
Eastern New York Occupational & Environmental Health Center, 155 Washington
Avenue, Albany, New York 12210; 3 Institute for Microbiology and Toxicology at
the Federal Center of Meat Research, E.-C.-Baumann-Str. 20, D-95326 Kulmbach,
Germany; Address for Correspondence: R. Dietrich, Ph.D., Institute for Hygiene
and Technology of Food of Animal Origin, Veterinary Faculty, University of
Munich, Veterinaerstrasse 13, D-80539 Munich, Germany; Tel.: +49 89 2180 2973,
Fax: +49 89 2180 2106, e-mail: R.Dietrich@mh.vetmed.uni-muenchen.de
Abstract:
Using
high-affinity monoclonal antibodies (Mab) against roridin A which exhibit
cross-reactions with satratoxins and other macrocyclic trichothecenes several
immunochemical methods were developed for the direct detection of satratoxins in
contaminated building materials. Applying a lab-independent enzyme-linked
immunofiltration assay (ELIFA) technique positive results were obtained within
10 min for toxin concentrations of > 200 mg/kg. The detection limit of a
microtiter plate assay format was 1 mg/kg. For samples contaminated with
Stachybotrys chartarum, an excellent agreement could be observed between the
enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and a cytotoxicity test. The results of the EIA could
be confirmed by HPLC analyses using immunoaffinity columns for sample clean-up.
Furthermore, a new method was established for the sensitive detection of
verrucarol in serum. In three out of 58 serum samples traces of verrucarol were
detected. Two other sera reacted strongly positive for macrocyclic
trichothecenes. Altogether, these results underline the importance and
usefulness of immunochemical methods for epidemiological studies on airborne
mycotoxins in indoor environments.
MITIGATION OF VISIBLE FUNGAL CONTAMINATION IN BUILDINGS: EXPERIENCE FROM 1993 - 1998
PHILIP
R. MOREY1, Ph.D., CIH, DARYL SAWYER2, B.S.
1AQS
Services, Inc,. 2235 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA 17325, (correspondence
address), Phone: (717) 338-0535, Fax: (717) 334-5295; 2 AQS Services, Inc., 1337
Capital Circle, Marietta, Georgia 30067, Phone: (770) 933-0638, Fax: (770)
933-0641
Abstract:
Experience
in the early 1990’s led to the recommendation that removal of visible fungal
growth from interior surfaces in buildings be performed in a manner that
minimized the dispersion of particles (dusts) in indoor air. Several documents
beginning with the 1994 New York City Guidelines on Assessment and Remediation
of Stachybotrys atra in Indoor Environments provided practitioners with
procedures that can be used to remove visible fungal growth from building
interiors. All fungal remediation guidelines recommend that sustained and
extensive fungal growth on interior surfaces should be physically removed and
that people performing remediation work should use appropriate personal
protective equipment. In addition, all guidelines published in 1993-1998
recommend that moisture problems in building infrastructure be fixed in order to
prevent new fungal growth. Fungal remediation guidelines specify a certain
surface area of visible fungal growth (generally 3 to 10m2) that
requires containment barriers similar to those used when hazardous chemical or
physical materials are removed from buildings. Misunderstanding of 1993-1998
guidelines has resulted in both overly conservative approaches to clean-up as
well as to dispersion of fungal spores throughout a building because of poor
dust control. Unlike guidelines on removal of hazardous chemical and physical
agents where rigid inspection protocols and specific numerical guidelines are
appropriate, the removal of mycobiota is a variable process depending on many
factors including the biology of the fungal taxa. Factors such as the following
should be considered during the remediation process: (a) the location, extent,
and kind of fungal growth in building systems, (b) the susceptibility of
building materials to biodeterioration, (c) the porosity of building materials,
(d) the susceptibility of occupants to bioaerosol exposure, and (e) sampling and
monitoring protocols appropriate for the fungal contaminants. Fungal remediation
in buildings continues to require a considerable degree of professional
judgement with regard to procedures appropriate for containment of dusts and for
control of the contaminant mycobiota.
Key
words
Microfungal
contamination of damp buildings: Biological aspects
Suzanne
Gravesen, Ph.D.
All
correspondence to: Suzanne Gravesen, Senior researcher, Energy & Indoor
Climate Division, Danish Building Research Institute, Dr. Neergaardvej 15, DK
2970 Hørsholm, Phone: +45 45 86 55 33, Fax: +45 45 86 75 35, E-mail: sug@sbi.dk
Abstract
Thie
intention with preparing this review has been to present some of the questions
and problems connected with moldy buildings, comprising examples of building
materials and constructions at risk for mold infestation, identification of the
building associated fungal flora - new term: FUNGA - (conf. fauna, flora,
funga).
The
mode of exposure and some of the fungal components suggested to be involved as
some of the etiological agents in adverse health reactions in buildings:
allergens, mycotoxins and MVOCs are described and discussed.
Furthermore
the nine projects included in ”The Danish mold research programme 1998-2001”
supported by a grant from the Danish Research Councils are presented. The aim of
this multidisciplinary programme is to combat mold growth in existing Danish
buildings and to prevent growth in buildings which are going to be constructed.
Key
words:
DURING
REMOVAL OF BIOAEROSOL CONTAMINATED ROOF SUBSTRATE MATERIAL IN AN OCCUPIED
FACILITY
William
A. Turner1 M.S., P.E., Steve M. Caulfield1, P.E., Francis A. Patnode1, Gerard
Blanchette2 P.E., Terry Brennan3 M.S.
1
Indoor Air Quality Services Division, The H.L. Turner Group Inc., 26 Pinewood
Drive, Harrison, Maine 04040; 2 Engineering Services Division, The H.L. Turner
Group Inc., 27 Locke Road, Concord, New Hampshire, 03301; 3 Camroden Associates,
East Carter Road, Westmoreland, New York, 13490; Address all Correspondence to:
William A. Turner, Vice President, Indoor Air Quality Division, The H.L. Turner
Group Inc., 26 Pinewood Drive, Harrison, Maine 04040 USA, ph. 207-583-4571, fax
207-583-4572, email: bturner@hlturner.com
ABSTRACT
Visual
observations and bulk sampling revealed that the four (4) yr. old plywood
substrate of a failed roofing system would need to be removed and replaced. The
microbial amplification which lead to the structural failure was likely caused
by uncontrolled moisture migration in the humidified building. A plan was
devised to establish and provide ongoing pressure containment and monitoring
during removal and replacement of the entire roof from the top floor of a three
story 40,000 sq.ft. facility. A replacement roofing system with adequate vapor
and air barriers was designed and installed. Continuous multizone pressure
monitoring and the use of real time laser particle counting during the
renovation were planned to assure that containment of the construction zone was
successful during the three (3) month removal and replacement process. Results
confirmed that pressure containment to prevent intra-zonal transport of
bioaerosols from the roof and fourth floor reconstruction area to the occupied
floors below was successful. This approach allowed the project to be completed
on schedule, within budget, and with little risk of occupant exposure to the
large volume of contaminated materials that were removed.
Key
words:
pressure
containment, microbial aerosol control, decontamination, containment partitions,
IAQ during renovation, occupied facility
CHARACTERIZATION,
PREVENTION, AND CONTROL OF MILDEW IN RESIDENTIAL ENVIRONMENTS: AN APPLIED
RESEARCH STUDY
Eugene
C. Cole, Dr.P.H., Carl E. Cook, M.S., Pamela D. Dulaney, Keith E. Leese, Michael
S. Newell, Mehboob U. Ahmed, M.S., Laurie Selman, Holly A. Bowers, April L.
Corbett, Cari J. Cole
Dyn.
Corp. Health Research Services, 4815 Emperor Blvd, Suite 300, Durham, North
Carolina 27703, Phone: (919) 941-9626, Fax: (919) 941-9625
A
10-week, 10-home cleaning and mold and mildew prevention study was conducted in
humid North Carolina to: 1) characterize “mold and mildew” on hard surfaces
associated with moisture, and 2) assess efficacy and frequency of application of
a disinfectant product in the treatment group (5 homes) compared to the control
group (5 homes). After professional cleaning and standardization of cleaning
products and vacuum cleaners, a total of 24 hard surface sites were selected,
with each sampled twice per week in all 10 homes. Sites in intervention homes
were treated with a spray disinfectant after each sampling and on one additional
day (3 times per week total). Samples (4,800) were processed for culturable
fungi (molds and yeasts). Sites included window frames, sink/tub faucets,
toilet-floor and tub-floor connections, under sink plumbing and cabinets,
dishwasher vent, floor under washing machine, laundry room walls, shower curtain
liners, and trash cans. More than 30 different fungi were recovered, many of
which are considered potentially allergenic, toxigenic, and opportunistic. They
included species of Cladosporium,
Penicillium, Aspergillus, Fusarium, Aureobasidium, Paecilomyces, Alternaria,
Trichoderma, Phialophora, Ulocladium, Stachybotrys/ Memnionella, Wallemia and
Acremonium. Mold and mildew
contamination was significantly reduced in treatment homes where hard surfaces
were routinely disinfected, compared to controls. The importance of both
cleaning and disinfection in the maintenance of a healthy home environment was
demonstrated.
Key
words:
ACGIH
TLV Statement on Bioaerosols; American Council of Government Industrial
Hygienists presentedfor the Bioaerosols Committee by
Harriet
M. Ammann, Ph.D.
Office
of Environmental Health Assessment Services, Washington State Department of
Health, P.O. Box 47846, 7700 Cleanwater Lane, Olympia, Washington 98504-7846,
Phone: 360-236-3171, FAX: 360-236-2257, e-mail: HMA0303@doh.wa.gov
INDUSTRIAL
HYGIENE & CLEARANCE CONSIDERATIONS FOR A MICROBIAL REMEDIATION PROJECT
John
A. Tiffany, M.S., Howard A. Bader, P.E., B.S., Adam J. Pratt, B.S.
Tiffany-Bader
Environmental, Inc., P.O. Box 1022, 355 Long Lane, Bedminster, NJ 07921-1022,
Phone: 908-439-3937, Fax: 908-439-2213, E-mail: TBEnvir@aol.com, Web Address:
www.envirocenter.com/TBE
ABSTRACT:
A
general consensus on final clearance levels for microbial remediation projects
does not exist. No numeric standards for microbial sampling exist. In-depth
microbial surveys should determine the full extent of contamination and which
areas do not need abatement or only need local abatement. To pass final
clearance, 3 parameters should be used: visual inspection, and results of air
and swab sampling. In the authors’ projects, spore trap samples were collected
as a screening test prior to final clearance samples (air and swab). If the
spore traps show that work areas were not sufficiently cleaned, the areas were
re-cleaned. The authors have broken down projects into smaller work zones to
separate more heavily contaminated zones from less contaminated zones. On-going
clearance testing as areas were finished sped up the abatement. Procedures such
as localized remediation within fully contained areas limited microbial release
inside the work area and helped achieve final clearance faster.
Key
words:
MICROBES
AND MOISTURE CONTENT OF MATERIALS FROM DAMAGED BUILDING
Meklin1
T., M.Sc., Haatainen2 S., B.Sc, Kauriinvaha3 E. M.Sc, Kettunen3 A-V. M.Sc,
Haverinen1 U., M.Sc., Vahteristo1 M. M.Sc., Viljanen3 M. Prof., Nevalainen1 A
Ph.D.
1
National Public Health Institute, Division of Environmental Health, P.O.Box 95,
FIN-70701, Kuopio, Finland, Telephone +358 17 201 211, Telefax +358 17 201 155;
2 Kuopio Regional Institute of Occupational Health, Kuopio, 3 Helsinki
University of Technology, Laboratory of Structural Engineering and Building
Physics, Helsinki; Address of correspondence: Teija Meklin, 1National Public
Health Institute, Division of Environmental Health, P.O.Box 95, FIN-70701,
Kuopio, Finland, Telephone +358 17 201 211, Telefax +358 17 201 155, e-mail
Teija.Meklin@ktl.fi
Abstract
The
aim of the study was to characterize the microbial flora of the envelope of a
school building and the correlation of the microbial concentrations and the
moisture content of materials was estimated. Material samples (n=95) were taken
from different structures before the dismantling of the school. In all, 40
sample pairs were taken from which both concentrations of microbes and moisture
contents (% by weight) were determined. The range of the total concentration of
fungi was <45 - 8 600 000 cfu/g for all the analyzed material samples. The
growth of microbes in a building is mostly regulated by the moisture of the
materials and often the elevated concentrations of mesophilic fungi (>10 000
cfu/g) were associated with elevated moisture content of the material. However,
the microbial concentrations did not fully correlate with the moisture contents
of the material.
Key
words:
Use
of MVOC measurements and odour perception as indicator of mould in indoor areas.
Keller
R., Senkpiel K., Ohgke H.
Department
of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Medical University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger
Allee 160, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
Abstract
Moulds
are amongst the most important indoor allergens. Mould formation in buildings
and residential housing is often caused or facilitated by construction defects
and lack of building use. Moulds produce a range of volatile organic compounds,
the Microbial Volatile Organic Compounds (MVOCs). Some of these compounds, such
as 1-octene-3-ol, 2-methyl-1-propanol, dimethylsulphide, dimethyldisulphide,
dimethylsulphoxide, 2-heptanone and geosmin, produce a musty, foul or earthy
odour which can be detected long before any visible signs of mould growth are
evident.
In
small test samples (between 1and 5 litres) thermodesorption combined with mass
spectrometry allows an analytical detection of these compounds in indoor air at
concentrations substantially lower than their olfactory threshold. For these
analyses, only small test samples (1 to 5 litres) are required.
Result
of this study: 131 residences were analysed. In all rooms (n=96) with olfactory
signs of mould formation, more than 50 ng/m³ of MVOC´s could be detected.
MVOC
is sensitive, specific, valid and thus helps to prevent exposure to fungal
allergens.
A
MODEL FOR ASSESSING HEALTH RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH EXPOSURES TO LEGIONELLA
BACTERIA
Brenda
E. Barry, Ph.D., Jerry F. Ludwig, Ph.D., P.E., John F. McCarthy, Sc.D., C.I.H.
Environmental
Health & Engineering, Inc., Newton, MA, Address for Correspondence: Brenda
E. Barry, Ph.D., Senior Associate, Environmental Health & Engineering, Inc.,
60 Wells Avenue, Newton, MA 02459-3210, Phone: (617)-964-8550, FAX:
(617)-964-8556,
ABSTRACT
Assessing
the potential human health risks for developing disease caused by inhalation of
Legionella bacteria depends on several factors. We developed an exposure
assessment model based on a scenario in which Legionella bacteria are detected
in a hospital cooling tower. Exposure risks were evaluated and compared for two
potentially exposed individuals, a maintenance worker on the roof next to the
cooling tower and a hospital patient inside the building. Variables for the
emission source included bacterial concentration in the tower, tower water and
air flow rates, and the percentage of tower drift. Pathway variables included
distance from the tower, wind conditions, moisture level in the air, and air
filters in the ventilation system. We determined that the risk of exposure to
even one viable Legionella bacterium was 200,000 times greater for the
maintenance worker than for the hospital patient. This exposure assessment model
provides a useful approach for estimating health risks associated with exposures
to Legionella bacteria.
Key
words:
CONCENTRATIONS
OF VIABLE SPORES OF FUNGI AND ACTINOMYCETES IN VENTILATION CHANNELS
Outi
Lindroos, M.Sc., Sanna Lappalainen, Phil.Lic., Kari Reijula, M.D, Ph.D.
Uusimaa
Regional Institute of Occupational Health, Indoor Air & Environment Program,
Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland, Corresponding
author: Outi Lindroos, Uusimaa Regional Institute of Occupational Health,
Arinatie 3 A, FIN-00370 Helsinki, Finland, tel. +358-9-474 7987, fax +358-9-506
1087, E-mail: Outi.Lindroos@occuphealth.fi
ABSTRACT
In
this work we studied if accumulation of fungal spores to the ventilation
channels has any significance as microbial source in indoor air. Concentrations
of viable spores were determined from samples that were collected from
ventilation channels, and the geometric mean and median values were calculated.
The concentrations of fungal spores and actinomycetes on ventilation channel
surfaces were low even in abundantly dusty channels, and therefore accumulation
of spores in the channels did not seem to form any significant microbial source
in indoor air. In the samples from exhaust channels in buildings with verified
mold damages, prevalence of fungal species such as Acremonium sp., Aspergillus versicolor, Chaetomium sp., Eurotium
herbariorum, Paecilomyces variotii, Phoma sp., Trichoderma viride and Ulocladium
sp. was better indicator for damages than the concentrations of fungal
spores.
Key
words:
FUNGI
AND ENDOTOXIN EXPOSURE IN PAPER AND GLASS RECYCLING PLANTS
H.
Würtz1, M.Sc., N.O. Breum1, M.Sc., D.M.Sc., N. Ebbehøj2, M.D., D.M.Sc., O.
Jorgensen1, M.Sc., U. Midtgaard1, D.Sc., B.H.N. Nielsen1, D.V.M., Ph.D.
1
National Institute of Occupational Health, Lersoe Parkallé 105, DK-2100
Copenhagen, Denmark.; 2 Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine,
Bispebjerg Hospital, DK-2400 Copenhagen, Denmark., Corresponding author: Helle Würtz,
N I O H, Lersoe Parkallé 105, DK-2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark. Phone(+45)
39 16 52 22. Fax (+45) 39 16 52 01. e-mail hw@ami.dk
Abstract:
Personal
sampling of microorganisms and total dust was carried out in plants receiving
glass or paper for recycling. During manual sorting, the exposure to culturable
fungi was significantly increased (p=0.05) at the glass recycling plants (105
cfu/m3) compared to manual sorting of recyclable paper (104
cfu/m3). The latter was at the same time significantly increased
compared to sorting mail (103 cfu/m3). Compared to other
studies in the waste handling, the exposure to fungi during manual sorting of
bottles was high and in general the exposure to endotoxin was at the same level
or lower.
Key
words:
Air
Quality Restoration in a Fungal Contaminated Building; A Case Study
Herman
Sabath M.P.H., Ph.D.
International
Environmental Diagnostics, Inc., 90 Highland Lane, Irvington on Hudson, New York
10533-1845, phone (914) 591-6651, Fax (914) 591-6779
Abstract:
Attempts
to mitigate microbial contamination of a four story office building by use of
common standard cleaning procedures proved inefficient by post abatement
analytical results.
Toxigenic,
allergenic and pathogenic fungi were identified in sampling evaluation as a
follow up to microbial abatement. Microorganisms such as Stachybotrys, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Cladosporium and Fusarium
were detected in air and surface samples of a four story office building. Review
of the chain of events revealed that microbial recolonization,
cross-contamination and recontamination had occurred at this facility.
IED,
Inc. an environmental company specializing in microbial abatement and air
quality restoration in indoor environments was commissioned to the project of
biocidal clean-up and air quality restoration. Success of such projects are
strictly dependent on applied scientific knowledge and experience. IED, Inc.
successfully completed the biocidal and air quality restoration project as
proven by post abatement analytical results performed by an independent third
party monitoring company and laboratories.
Key
words:
Sampling,
Results & Remediation in 300 "Sick Houses"
Jeffrey
C. May, M.A.
J.
May Home Inspections, Inc., 1522 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA 02139.
Telephone: 617-354-0749; email: jmhi@cybercom.net
Abstract
Inhabitants
in "sick house syndrome" (SHS) homes suffer from allergy, asthma,
sinus and other respiratory problems, including hypersensitivity pneumonitis and
aspergillosis. Reports from 300 SHS homes were compared to randomly-selected
reports from 150 homes inspected as part of pre-purchase agreements in the
Boston area. SHS homes were almost twice as likely as other homes to have forced
hot air heat, central air conditioning and finished/carpeted basements. Elevated
levels of mold were found in 74% of SHS homes. The largest sources of bioaerosol
were found to be carpeting; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)
equipment; and beds and sofas. Respirable "carpet dander" from damaged
wool carpet fibers can be an irritant. Effective SHS remediation may include:
carpet removal; thorough coil /duct/blower cleaning along with replacement of
contaminated fiberglass lining materials in HVAC equipment, and cleaning fleecy
items with dry (super-heated) steam. Mite-barrier mattress and pillow covers are
always recommended. SHS may be a cause for increased asthma rates.
Key
words:
Identifying
and preventing fungal contamination problems in new home construction
Päivi
Salo, M.Sc.
University
of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Public Health, Department of
Environmental Sciences & Engineering, 106 Rosenau Hall, CB #7400, Chapel
Hill, NC 27599-7400, Phone: (919) 303-4405, Fax: (919) 303-6128,
E-mail:psalo@mindspring.com
Abstract
The
objectives of this study were to identify construction materials and practices
prone to introduce fungal contamination into new single family homes, and to
identify preventive maintenance procedures which limit fungal colonization and
amplification.
This
study was performed over a two year period in North Carolina. Eight construction
sites were observed during construction and during the first year of occupancy.
Building
materials were improperly stored and exposed to rain and/or high humidity.
Inadequate drainage caused many crawl spaces to remain damp. Many HVAC systems
were inadequately sealed, enabling rainwater and construction debris to enter
the systems, and thereby providing suitable fungal substrates. Negative pressure
within the building envelopes caused air infiltration from the crawlspaces.
Many
of the observed problems found could be avoided by educating builders and
homeowners. Early identification and prevention of potential fungal reservoirs
and amplification sites is preferable to costly analysis and repairs afterwards.
Key
words:
A
toxic mold cleanup guide
Jim
H. White, B.A.Sc., P.E.O.
CMHC
National Office, 700 Montreal Road, Ottawa, ON K1A 0P7, Canada, Tel: 1 613
748-2309 Fax: 1 613 748-2402
Abstract
Many
houses and small buildings are moldy, and some have extensive growth of
toxigenic molds that can cause health problems at lower exposures than the
phyloplane molds that are more common outdoors. Canada Mortgage and Housing
Corporation, the Canadian federal housing agency, has performed a great deal of
research into moldy houses and has created a number of publications on mold
avoidance and cleanup. This document is one of a new series that addresses toxic
mold cleanup as well as solving moisture problems and avoiding mold growth in
the first place.
Key
words:
Mold,
cleanup, houses, health effects, worker protection
DEVELOPMENT
OF A PUBLIC HEALTH INTERVENTION PROGRAM IN FINLAND
Husman1
T M.D., Ph.D., Nevalainen A Ph.D.
National
Public Health Institute, Division of Environmental Health, POB 95, 70701 KUOPIO
Finland; 1 Corresponding author: Tuula Husman, tel. +358 17 201 325, fax. +358
17 201 265., E-mail: Tuula.Husman@KTL.FI, National Public Health Institute, Unit
of Epidemiology, Division of Environmental Health, P.O.Box 95, FIN-70701 KUOPIO,
FINLAND
Abstract
This
paper presents the development and current stage of the national research
program on moisture damaged and moldy buildings and related indoor air quality
problems in Finland. The role of local, regional and national authorities as
well as the current status of legislation and indoor air quality guidelines are
described. Some needs for future research and the Environmental Health Research
Program of the Academy of Finland are introduced.
Key
words:
An
assessment of mold contamination problems in Atlantic Canada schools: mold
burdens, amplifying sites and benefits of proactive school inspection policies.
Thomas
G. Rand, Ph.D.
Department
of Biology, Saint Mary's University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, B3H 3C3.
ABSTRACT
It
is abundantly clear that many schools support unacceptable mold burdens.
However, what is less clear from the literature on school biocontamination
problems is whether all schools support the same types of molds and where the
most common mold amplifying sites are likely found. Since 1992, I have been
involved in the study of 631-school environments for mold contaminants and
analyzed some 5000 air and substrate samples from schools throughout the
Atlantic Provinces. Objectives of this presentation are threefold. The first is
to compare mold burdens and dominant species assemblages in “normal” and
“contaminated” school environments. The second is to show that mold species
assemblages vary widely with the school construction type and amplifying sites
and; the third is to evaluate the effect of ongoing inspections in schools for
mold contaminants. In normal school environments, like in other buildings in
temperate zones, airborne mold burdens follow clear seasonality patterns that
are quantitatively and qualitatively similar to that found outdoors. Schools
suffering from mold contamination problems most frequently support high focal
and sometimes widespread spore loads and growth of a variety of species
including the indicator species Acremonium
spp., Aspergillus fumigatus, A. niger, A. ustus, A. versicolor, Chaetomium spp.,
Paecilomyces variotii. Penicillium brevicompactum, P. aurantiogriseum complex,
P. variabile, Phoma spp., Stachybotrys chartarum, Trichoderma harzianum and T.
viride. However, indicator species assemblages recovered from contaminated
school sites vary considerably reflecting school age and construction, and the
composition and water activity of the amplifying substrate material. The most
common contamination sites in descending order of occurrence are classrooms and
administration sites, especially peripheral-wall cavities and ceiling plenum,
libraries, gymnasiums, basements/crawl spaces, ventilation systems,
janitor/mechanical rooms and portable classrooms. The most commonly encountered
contaminated substrates in schools are drywall, dust, ceiling tiles, structural
wood, insulation, carpets, concrete wall surfaces, and, amongst others, that
have been exposed to chronic water infiltration, condensation and/or wicking
problems. School inspections for mold contamination, which have been ongoing
since 1993, have resulted in a reduction in the number of schools suffering from
widespread contamination problems. However, the number of schools suffering from
focal problems, especially in inapparent sites, has remained approximately the
same. Prompt abatement action to remove amplifiers once they have been detected,
and better communication outlining potential exposure risks, have helped to
allay heightened occupant and parent anxiety.
Molds
as an environmental factor in infant leukemia?
Casteleyn
L, Van Damme K, Van den Berghe H.
Center
for Human Gentics, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
The
possible influence of occupational, environmental and lifestyle exposures of
parents on the occurrence of infant leukemia is studied. Infant leukemia
diagnosed within the first 6 months of life occurs at a frequency of around 1
case in 50.000 live births and shows a consistent genomic defect involving the
11q23 band (the MLL gene). These rearrangements are considered to offer
circumstantial evidence for an environmental factor being involved and
compelling evidence exists that the particular mutation is acquired in utero.
MICROBIAL
CONTAMINATION LITIGATION: EXPERT WITNESSES AND SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE
Edward H. Cross, Esq.
Law
Offices of Edward H. Cross & Associates, 1666 North Main Street, Second
Floor, Santa Ana, CA 92701-7417, Telephone: (714) 541-2767, Facsimile: (714)
541-1326, e-mail: edcross@edcross.com, web site: www.edcross.com,
Key
words:
Experts
perform a crucial function in our justice system: to educate the jury and the
court Introduction
about
the nuances and gray areas of a case. Expert witnesses benefit a party to a
lawsuit by educating the party’s attorney, helping to evaluate the case, and
assisting in the determination of which elements of the case require proof by
other expert witnesses.
Lawsuits
regarding microbial contamination revolve around the expert witnesses. These
cases are often little more than “battles of the experts,” and can be won or
lost on the effectiveness of the experts. Effectiveness requires preparation. A
prepared but under-qualified expert may prevail over the more qualified but
under-prepared expert.
This
article addresses the role of an expert witness in the litigation process,
especially in microbial contamination cases. It is written from the perspective
of California law, and is not intended to be legal advice.
Field
report: INITIAL MICROBIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT IN FOUR NEW CONDOMINIUMS
Michael MCGuinness, C.I.H., Patrick D. McGuinness, M.S.M.E., P.E.
R.K.
Occupational and Environmental Analysis, Inc., 401 St. James Avenue,
Phillipsburg, NJ 08865, Phone: 908-454-6316, Fax: 908-454-4818, email:
mguinni@nni.com
Abstract
A
risk assessment was performed at the request of the owners of four new
condominiums in a condo complex in central New Jersey. The owners had a history
of complaints starting immediately upon occupancy and believed that these health
effects could be due to exposure to airborne fungi. To assess airborne, viable
fungal exposure levels and the resulting potential for adverse health effects,
an initial assessment was performed.
After
interviewing occupants, and conducting a cursory visual inspection, air, surface
wipe and bulk samples were collected and analyzed. The HVAC systems of the units
were briefly inspected, and very preliminary analyses of moisture sources and
pollutant transport were completed. Occupants also completed “a”
questionnaire to evaluate reported health effects.
Inspection
procedures, test results, and evaluation of health effects questionnaires
indicated strong correlation between observed conditions and occupant health
problems.
It
was concluded that uncontrolled moisture has resulted in significant microbial
amplification which led to the decision to recommend evacuation of the units.
Litigation is proceeding. All sources of moisture need to be identified before
any appropriate remedial strategy can be offered. These units may have to be
rebuilt.
Keywords: