JURNAL KESEHATAN LINGKUNGAN

Indoor Air Quality in Laboratories and Its Relationship with Psychological Performance Among University Students in Malaysia

Muhammad Nazman — 2024-10-31

Introduction: Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) in work environments can reduce productivity and decrease overall performance. This study examines IAQ in university laboratories and its relationship with psychological performance among students in Malaysia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from October to November 2023 in six laboratories at a Malaysian university, categorised into chemical and non-chemical. A total of 117 students aged 18 to 40 participated. IAQ was measured in real-time for 8 hours during weekdays using instruments for particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), carbon monoxide (CO), total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), airborne microorganisms, carbon dioxide (CO2), temperature in °C, relative humidity (RH), and air movement. Psychological performance was assessed using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) and Post Occupancy Evaluation (POE). Data analysis was performed using Kruskal-Wallis, One-Way ANOVA, and Chi-Square tests. Results and Discussion: Significant differences in IAQ parameters were observed for PM2.5 (p=0.007), PM10 (p=0.020), CO2 (p=0.024) and RH (p=0.043). Psychological distress affected 41.9% of students based on the predefined threshold. High CO levels (≥0.67 ppm) and elevated temperatures (≥23.28°C) were significantly associated with increased psychological distress (p=0.011). Students exposed to these conditions were 1.3 times more likely to experience distress (OR=1.3). Conclusion: Specific IAQ parameters, particularly CO and temperature, critically impact students’ psychological well-being. Improving IAQ by reducing CO levels and maintaining optimal temperatures may enhance mental health and performance. Improving IAQ by reducing CO levels and maintaining optimal temperatures may enhance mental health and performance. However, external factors such as personal stressors could not be entirely controlled.

Risk Analysis of Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) Exposure to Public Health Around Kolaka District Nickel Processing Plant

Sheril Azis — 2024-10-31

Introduction: Sulfur dioxide is an air pollutant that is mostly sourced from burning fossil fuels. Data from the Pomalaa Health Center in 2019 indicates a high incidence of Acurate Respiratory Infection (ARI), with 1,943 reported cases. This study aims to assess the respiratory health risk for communities near the nickel processing plant in Pomalaa District. Methods: This research employs an observational cross-sectional design alongside Environmental Health Risk Analysis (EHRA), the study sampled 122 out of 13,207 respondents using simple random sampling. The analysis was carried out with the kolmogorov-smirnov test and EHRA. Results and Discussion: EHRA results show an inhalation rate of 0.63 m3/hour, with an exposure time of 24 hours/day, an exposure frequency of 365 days/year, and exposure durations of 25 years for real-time projections and 30 years for lifetime projections. SO2 levels have surpassed national quality standards, with the highest concentration recorded at Point 4, measuring 0.576 mg/m3. Dose-response analysis, based on US-EPA data, indicates a level of 0.21 mg/m3. The average intake value for real-time exposure is 0.081 mg/kg/day, and the average intake value for 30-year lifetime is also 0.081 mg/kg/day. Kolmogorov-smirnov test results show a p-value of 0.200 for body weight, while p-values for exposure duration, exposure time, exposure frequency, SO2 concentration, intake rate, age group, intake value, and RQ are all 0.000. Conclusion: Most respondents in this study had health risks that were within safe limits. Nickel processing plant companies and local governments should conduct regular monitoring and control emissions from mining activities, including SO2

Mitigating Health Risks Through Biosorption: Effective Removal of Nickel (II) and Chromium (VI) from Water with Acid-Treated Potato Peels

Northaqifah Hasna Mohamed Khir — 2024-10-31

Introduction: Nickel (Ni(II)) and chromium (Cr(VI)) are associated with serious health risks, including respiratory problems, kidney damage, and cancer, along with potential threats to ecosystems. Given their persistence and significant toxicity, effective removal from contaminated water is essential to mitigate these health risks. This study explores the efficacy of acid-treated potato peels (ATPP) as an economical and readily accessible biosorbent for the removal of Ni(II) and Cr(VI) from water solutions. Methods: The study explored two biosorbents: raw potato peels (RPP) and ATPP. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was utilized to analyze changes in surface functional groups. Batch biosorption experiments were performed using distinct contact times (30-180min), pH (3–11), and biosorbent dosages (0.1–0.5 g). The Mann-Whitney U test was applied for the statistical analysis. Results and Discussion: The FTIR analysis indicated an enhancement in carboxyl groups on the ATPP surface after acid treatment, with stronger transmittance peak at 1645 cm⁻¹. ATPP showed significant improvements in biosorption capacity compared to RPP, removing 18.23% of 10 mg/L Ni(II) at pH 5 in 120minutes using 0.5 g of ATPP. For Cr(VI), 52.28% removal was achieved at pH 7 with 0.2 g of ATPP within the same time frame. Statistical analysis confirmed the superior performance of ATPP in removing Ni(II) (p = 0.024) and Cr(VI) (p = 0.004). Conclusion: ATPP offers significantly higher biosorption capabilities than RPP attributed to the increased presence of carboxyl groups on the modified surface, indicating potential for eco-friendly effective material in mitigating the heavy metal pollution's health risks.

Assessing Microplastic Contamination in Shellfish: Insights from Pantai Remis Kuala Selangor, Strait of Malacca, Malaysia

Aliyah Abdul Aziz — 2024-10-31

Introduction: Microplastic (MP) contamination poses a global environmental threat, affecting terrestrial and marine ecosystems, and human health. This study investigates the presence, density, and composition of MPs in three commercially important shellfish species, oriental angel wing clam (Pholas orientalis), bamboo clam (Ensis leei), and blood cockles (Tegillarca granosa) at Pantai Remis Jeram, Kuala Selangor. Methods: Microplastics in shellfish were quantitatively analyzed for their abundance, colour, size, shape, and composition using microscopic techniques and micro-Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR). Standard experimental protocols were followed. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using SPSS to identify correlations between these parameters. Results and Discussion: Our findings reveal a significant presence of MP particles in shellfish with T. granosa exhibiting the highest density (2.417 particles/cm³) compared to E. leei (0.721 particles/cm³) and P. orientalis (1.449 particles/cm³). Fibers and fragments were the dominant MP morphotypes, primarily in black color. P. orientalis and T. granosa contained a majority of MPs within the 1 - 5 mm size range, totalling 41 and 56 particles, respectively. Shellfish samples contain polymers of cellulase acetate and polyethylene terephthalate, indicating possible origins from plastic bottles and textile fibres. A statistically significant difference in the mean MP densities in the different species of shellfish was found by one-way ANOVA analysis (p = 0.042, p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study provides relevant data on MP pollution in commercially significant shellfish species. To effectively mitigate this environmental concern and comprehend the long-term ecological ramifications of MP intake by shellfish, more research is required.

Association Between Indoor Air Quality and Sick Building Syndrome Among Workers in Food Outlets in Selangor, Malaysia

Nur Izzah Ismahani Isman — 2024-10-31

Introduction: Indoor air pollution, causing health issues like Sick Building Syndrome (SBS), is the third largest global contributor to disability-adjusted life years, emphasizing the urgent need for improved indoor air quality. This study aimed to determine the association between Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and SBS among workers at food outlets in Selangor, Malaysia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 107 workers in mall, new and old food outlet. A set of standardized and validated version questionnaires of the Industry Code of Practice on Indoor Air Quality (ICOP IAQ) 2010 was distributed to obtain respondents’ sociodemographic information, symptoms present at the workplace, and psychosocial information. Results and Discussion: The study found significant differences in temperature (p = 0.004), air velocity (p = 0.037), ultrafine particles (p = 0.005), and carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations (p = 0.006) in malls, new and old food outlets. Workers in old food outlets had the highest prevalence of SBS (66.7%), compared to those in new outlets (60.5%) and mall outlets (64.7%). Environmental characteristics, such as increased dust and particulate matter during renovation (OR = 6.17, 95% CI = 1.34-28.34), repair (OR = 2.43, 95% CI = 1.03-5.76), along with temperature variations (OR = 7.21, 95% CI = 2.52-20.66) significantly influencing SBS. Conclusion: SBS prevalence in food outlets is not significantly linked to IAQ parameters, but exposure to UFP and PM2.5 may contribute to its development. However, it is significantly associated with workplace renovations and repairs for interior design, as well as varying temperatures.

Incidence of Pathogens in Fruits and Vegetables in Tropical Bwari Town

Comfort Omogor Esumeh — 2024-10-31

Introduction: In numerous tropical regions of developing nations, the prevalence of foodborne illnesses is perceived to be more severe than in developed countries, due to insufficient food safety initiatives or the lack of a structured institutional framework for street food vendors. The study's objectives of examining microorganisms associated with fruits and vegetables, the prevailing temperature and the hygiene practices of various fruit and vegetable sellers were all met. Methods: A self-designed questionnaire completed by twenty vendors were used. Laboratory techniques like serial dilution, biochemical testing, and culture techniques were used. A handheld thermometer was used to determine the prevailing temperature, and descriptive statistics using Microsoft Excel was used to analyze data. Results and Discussion: Statistical analysis revealed that 80% of vendors had washing facilities, 70% worked in a clean environment, 20% washed their hands before handling fruits, 70% dressed correctly, and 70% kept their fruits and vegetables above the WHO temperature standard. A laboratory investigation revealed the bacteria counts of (watermelon being the highest 8.3×105, cucumber 5.4×105, carrot 2.3×105, orange 3.7×105). Microbial species encountered were Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella species, amongst others, which increases health risk. Conclusion: The study concluded that temperatures, handling processes, and inadequate hygiene all had impact on fruits and vegetables sold in tropical Bwari area. It also established a link between temperature and the prevalence of bacteria in fruits and vegetables. As a result, the study suggests monitoring and surveillance of fruit and vegetable sellers, national vendor hygiene policies and public awareness.

The Effectiveness of Green Open Spaces in Absorbing Carbon Dioxide Emissions in the Area of PT. Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) Regional 3 Subregional Jawa

Isna Fadila — 2024-10-31

Introduction: Green spaces serve as various ecological purposes, most notably the removal of pollutants. Although PT. Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) Regional 3 Subregional Jawa was estimated to have quite significant carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, the company had provided green open space in multiple locations. Calculating the effectiveness of green open spaces in absorbing CO2 emissions in the area of Pelindo Subregional Jawa was the aim of this study. Methods: The primary data used was observation, and secondary data were gathered through document and literature studies. The dependent variable was the calculation of carbon dioxide emissions, while the independent variable was the effectiveness of green open spaces (land cover types and green open spaces area). The IPCC 2006 equations were used for data analysis. Results and Discussion: The estimated carbon dioxide emissions at Pelindo Subregional Jawa came from the following sources: 1,945.51 tons from electricity consumption; 1,845.97 tons from ships; 1,102.30 tons from operational, employee, and passenger vehicles; and 4.49 tons from genset usage. That amounted to 4,898.27 tons per year overall. Based on the calculation, it was found that the green open space could absorb 4,434.94 tons of CO2 per hectare annually. Conclusion: The existing green open spaces in the area of Pelindo Subregional Jawa were not enough to absorb CO2 emissions, as CO2 emissions still left a residual of 463.33 tons/year.

Students’ Habits and Identification of Bacteria on Inanimate Surface of Educational Setting

Ari Udijono — 2024-10-31

Introduction: Diponegoro Clinic reported 29.1% of students seek infectious diseases treatment. Student habits in the classroom were thought to play roles in the presence of bacteria. Surfaces of inanimate objects in the classroom were potential source for bacteria. The research objectives were analyzing student’s habits and identifying bacteria on the surface of inanimate objects in the classroom. Methods: Four types of samples, including the surfaces of tables, chairs, flips of air conditioners, and floors were taken from 13 faculties at Universitas Diponegoro. Plate count agar media were used to isolate bacterial colonies, and PCR analysis was performed for DNA extraction and amplification. DNA Sanger sequencing techniques were used for genetic bacterial identification. The online questionnaire was used to assess student habits in the classroom. Two hundred students responded. Results and Discussion: Acinetobacter baumannii and Staphylococcus aureus were found in classrooms. These bacteria were associated with respiratory tract infections. This study revealed that 86.5% were between the ages of 17-21, 60.81% were from outside Semarang City, and 88.33% lived in Semarang City. About 60.81% of respondents studied in health sciences. Furthermore, it was reported that 66.67% of respondents were sick in the last few weeks, attended class despite being sick (72.52%), and coughed and sneezed in class (40.99%). Conclusion: Bacteria associated with respiratory tract infection were found. Students' habits in the classroom were potentially caused by the presence of these bacteria. The use of antibacterial agents could reduce the presence of bacteria on inanimate object surfaces.

Health Risk Assessment of Ambient Air Benzene Among Primary School Children in Urban and Rural Areas in Johor, Malaysia

Nabihah Ali — 2024-10-31

Introduction: It is a fact that children are vulnerable, and are at risk from benzene, a volatile, carcinogenic organic compound. The aim of our study is to determine the levels of ambient air benzene and examine the non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks involved Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in two urban and two rural primary schools in Johor, Malaysia. Benzene concentrations were measured using BUCK Libra L-4 pumps and analyzed in the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Data were collected from 334 10-12 year old children, to calculate the exposure levels based on their body weights and heights. The hazard quotient (HQ) served to evaluate the non-carcinogenic risks, whereas the lifetime cancer risk (LCR) was determined with the aid of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). Results and Discussion: Benzene concentrations were higher in rural than urban areas, surpassing the European Union (EU) standard of 5 μg/m³. It was also established that the highest average levels recorded were 6.89 ± 6.68 μg/m³. The HQ values, nonetheless, had indicated no immediate non-carcinogenic risk, while LCR estimates were found to be within a tolerable range across all sites. Findings showed that although the immediate risk from benzene exposure is low, long-term exposure still poses a significant cancer risk to children; even low levels of chronic exposure can heighten the likelihood of children to develop cancers. Conclusion: This study has produced a revelation that there are elevated benzene levels in rural areas in Johor. Despite the low, immediate non-carcinogenic risks, further investigation on the potential for long-term cancer risks is warranted. These risks can be addressed by conducting stricter air quality monitoring, enhancing vehicle emission standards, and introducing educational programs that can raise awareness about benzene exposure.

A Scoping Review on Understanding Climate Change’s Effects on Pregnancy in Coastal Regions

Enrika Rahayu Setyani — 2024-10-31

Introduction: Pregnancy increases vulnerability to environmental stressors. Climate change heightens risks for pregnant women, leading to adverse maternal and infant outcomes. Coastal regions, prone to sea-level rise, rising temperatures, saltwater intrusion, and extreme weather, face significant health impacts. This review summarises the effects of climate change on pregnant women in these areas, emphasising the need for targeted interventions to mitigate these risks. Discussion: This scoping review was conducted using the advanced Arksey and O’Malley framework. Utilizing several keywords, including 'climate change,' 'adverse pregnancy,' 'pregnant outcome,' 'coastal,' and 'island,' a thorough exploration was conducted on PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus and ProQuest. A thorough review of 660 articles from 2020–2024 on those online databases identified 34 relevant studies. The findings show that coastal residents face environmental challenges such as rising temperatures, air pollution, cyclones, hurricanes, ozone exposure, floods, and highly saline water. Prolonged exposure to these conditions exacerbates health risks. Climate change is linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes, including low birth weight, small gestational age, stillbirth, preterm birth, neonatal health problems, and increased the risk of pregnancy complications and miscarriages. Conclusion: Climate change significantly affects pregnant women, causing complications and adverse outcomes throughout pregnancy. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive policies and intervention programs. These insights provide a foundation for policymakers to develop strategies that support and protect pregnant women in vulnerable regions. Household-level efforts, such as providing a comfortable living environment, can help reduce the climate change impacts.