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Damiani G, Alessandrini M, Caccamo D, Cormano A, Guzzi G, Mazzatenta A, Micarelli A, Migliore A, Piroli A, Bianca M, Tapparo O, Pigatto PDM. Italian Expert Consensus on Clinical and Therapeutic Management of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182111294. [PMID: 34769816 PMCID: PMC8582949 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a multisystem, recurrent, environmental disorder that flares in response to different exposures (i.e., pesticides, solvents, toxic metals and molds) under the threshold limit value (TLV) calculated for age and gender in the general population. MCS is a syndrome characterized by cutaneous, allergic, gastrointestinal, rheumatological, endocrinological, cardiological and neurological signs and symptoms. We performed a systematic review of the literature to summarize the current clinical and therapeutic evidence and then oriented an eDelphi consensus. Four main research domains were identified (diagnosis, treatment, hospitalization and emergency) and discussed by 10 experts and an MCS patient. Thus, the first Italian MCS consensus had the double aim: (a) to improve MCS knowledge among healthcare workers and patients by standardizing the clinical and therapeutic management to MCS patients; and (b) to improve and shed light on MCS misconceptions not supported by evidence-based medicine (EBM).
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Damiani
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy;
- Clinical Dermatology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, 20161 Milan, Italy
- PhD Degree Program in Pharmacological Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Marco Alessandrini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Daniela Caccamo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dental Sciences, & Morpho-Functional Imaging, Polyclinic Hospital University, 98124 Messina, Italy;
| | - Andrea Cormano
- International Society of Doctors for Environment, 82100 Benevento, Italy;
| | - Gianpaolo Guzzi
- Italian Association for Metals and Biocompatibility Research—A.I.R.M.E.B., 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Andrea Mazzatenta
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Science, ‘G. d’Annunzio’ University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Micarelli
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, 39100 Bolzano, Italy;
- ITER Center for Balance and Rehabilitation Research (ICBRR), 02032 Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Migliore
- Department of Internal Medicine, Unit of Rheumatology, San Pietro Fatebenefratelli Hospital, 00189 Rome, Italy;
| | - Alba Piroli
- Department of MeSVA, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy;
| | | | | | - Paolo Daniele Maria Pigatto
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy;
- Clinical Dermatology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, 20161 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-02-5031-9971
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Chronic Exposure to Solvents Among Construction Painters: Reductions in Exposure and Neurobehavioral Health Effects. J Occup Environ Med 2018; 60:e663-e670. [PMID: 30308619 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the neurobehavioral effects of lifetime solvent exposure by comparing the performance of painters and demographically comparable controls. METHODS Performance of exposed painters (N = 133) was compared with unexposed tapers, glaziers, or carpenters (N = 78) on the following domains: motor/perceptual speed, visual contrast, attention, working memory/planning, and visual and verbal memory. Lifetime exposure was estimated with questionnaires, field measurements, and paint composition. RESULTS After controlling for confounders, lifetime solvent exposure did not predict reduction in performance for overall domains of function. Lifetime solvent exposures predicted subtle alterations for individual tests of verbal learning, motor coordination, and visuospatial accuracy. CONCLUSION Concentrations of solvents in paints have steadily declined during the working lifetime of subjects in this study. Although reduced performance was observed on individual tests, these alterations were not consistent across tests and unlikely to be of clinical significance.
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Byun YS, Park SK, Sakong J, Jeon MJ. Performance assessment on the Korean Computerized Neurobehavioral Test using a mobile device and a conventional computer: an experimental study. Ann Occup Environ Med 2018; 30:55. [PMID: 30181883 PMCID: PMC6114805 DOI: 10.1186/s40557-018-0264-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Korean Computerized Neurobehavioral Test (KCNT) is a psychological assessment tool used as part of Workers’ Special Health Examinations in Korea. Due to the spread of mobile technology, this study aimed to compare results of the KCNT administered on a tablet PC versus a desktop computer, and, therefore, assess the clinical applicability of mobile devices. Methods A total of 72 participants enrolled in this study. Their age, sex, and years of formal education were collected during an interview, as well as their typing speed. The test battery comprised five subtests: Simple Reaction Time test, Choice Reaction Time test, Digit Addition test, Symbol-Digit Substitution test, and Finger Tapping Speed test. Participants repeated the KCNT test battery in a randomly assigned order using four different testing systems: a desktop computer equipped with a conventional 106-key keyboard (System 1), a desktop computer equipped with a simplified keyboard (System 2), a tablet PC with a simplified 17-key on-screen keyboard (System 3), and a tablet PC equipped with a simplified keyboard (System 4). Results Results of the Digit Addition test did not differ significantly for different testing systems. In contrast, results of the Simple Reaction Time test, Choice Reaction Time test, Symbol-Digit Substitution test, and Finger Tapping test were lower for the tablet PC (Systems 3 and 4) compared to the desktop computer (Systems 1 and 2). Systems 1 and 2 did not show significantly different results. Performance on System 3 was inferior to that on System 4, only for the Choice Reaction Time test and Finger Tapping Speed test. There were also significant differences in performance by computer familiarity when adjusted for age and education; however, the performance of each group on the test systems showed similar patterns. Conclusions It is not recommended to use a tablet PC to administer the KCNT to evaluate neurobehavioral performance for the Simple Reaction Time test and Choice Reaction Time test; however, tablet PCs with an on-screen keyboard may be used to perform the Digit Addition test, and the Symbol-Digit Substitution test and Finger Tapping Speed test to a limited degree.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Seok Byun
- 1Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Yeungnam University Hospital, 3rd floor, Yeong-ui-gwan, 170, Hyeonchung-ro, Namgu, Daegu, 42415 Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Kyu Park
- 1Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Yeungnam University Hospital, 3rd floor, Yeong-ui-gwan, 170, Hyeonchung-ro, Namgu, Daegu, 42415 Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Sakong
- 1Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Yeungnam University Hospital, 3rd floor, Yeong-ui-gwan, 170, Hyeonchung-ro, Namgu, Daegu, 42415 Republic of Korea.,2Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Yeungnam University Hospital, 170, Hyeonchung-ro, Namgu, Daegu, 42415 Republic of Korea
| | - Man Joong Jeon
- 1Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Yeungnam University Hospital, 3rd floor, Yeong-ui-gwan, 170, Hyeonchung-ro, Namgu, Daegu, 42415 Republic of Korea.,2Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Yeungnam University Hospital, 170, Hyeonchung-ro, Namgu, Daegu, 42415 Republic of Korea
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Barsingerhorn AD, Boonstra FN, Goossens J. Development of Symbol Discrimination Speed in Children With Normal Vision. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2018; 59:3973-3983. [PMID: 30073368 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.17-23168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Many visually guided tasks require rapid perception of visual details, but how fast children can discern foveal stimuli and how this ability improves with age are still unknown. To fill this gap, we tested normally sighted children between 5 and 12 years of age with a combined symbol-discrimination reaction-time test. Methods Children (n = 94) had to indicate, as fast and accurately as possible, the orientation of a Landolt C symbol (90 trials). Task difficulty was manipulated by varying symbol size (-0.43 to 1.09 logMAR at 5 m). The resulting reaction times were analyzed with a drift-diffusion model. Reaction times on a visual and auditory detection task were measured to assess the contribution of other factors, such as delays in stimulus detection and executing the motor response. Results Detection and discrimination were significantly faster in older children. Five-year-olds needed ∼440 ms for visual detection and ∼980 ms for discrimination of the largest symbols while 12-year-olds needed only ∼250 ms and ∼500 ms for this. The extra time needed for discrimination compared with detection decreased with age. The decrease in reaction time with increasing optotype size was also age-dependent and indicated an increase in sensitivity with age. Despite the time pressure, acuity thresholds were normal (within the EN ISO-8597 standard). Conclusions Our data revealed substantial developmental improvements in visual discrimination speed, which suggests that an important optimization takes place in the developing visual system of 5- to 12-year-old children. Since the speed-acuity test allows for quick and reliable assessment of visual recognition acuity and speed, it may be useful in clinical testing too.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemiek D Barsingerhorn
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Centre Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Biophysics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - F Nienke Boonstra
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Centre Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Royal Dutch Visio, National Foundation for the Visually Impaired and Blind, Huizen, The Netherlands.,Bartiméus, Institute for the Visually Impaired, Zeist, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Goossens
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Centre Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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The Human-Computer Interface in Computer-Based Concussion Assessment. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL SPORT PSYCHOLOGY 2012. [DOI: 10.1123/jcsp.6.4.385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Recent progress in technology has allowed for the development and validation of computer-based adaptations of existing pencil-and-paper neuropsychological measures and comprehensive cognitive test batteries. These computer-based assessments are frequently implemented in the field of clinical sports psychology to evaluate athletes’ functioning postconcussion. These tests provide practical and psychometric advantages over their pencil-and-paper counterparts in this setting; however, these tests also provide clinicians with unique challenges absent in paper-and-pencil testing. The purpose of this article is to present advantages and disadvantages of computer-based testing, generally, as well as considerations for the use of computer-based assessments for the evaluation of concussion among athletes. Furthermore, the paper provides suggestions for further development of computerized assessment of sports concussion given the limitations of the current technology.
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de Vocht F, Kromhout H. Human MRI above the FDA 8 T guideline: can we conclude that it is safe? J Magn Reson Imaging 2008; 27:938-9; author reply 939. [PMID: 18383255 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.21301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Sick building syndrome (SBS) and exposure to water-damaged buildings: time series study, clinical trial and mechanisms. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2006; 28:573-88. [PMID: 17010568 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2006.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2006] [Revised: 06/27/2006] [Accepted: 07/31/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Occupants of water-damaged buildings (WDBs) with evidence of microbial amplification often describe a syndrome involving multiple organ systems, commonly referred to as "sick building syndrome" (SBS), following chronic exposure to the indoor air. Studies have demonstrated that the indoor air of WDBs often contains a complex mixture of fungi, mycotoxins, bacteria, endotoxins, antigens, lipopolysaccharides, and biologically produced volatile compounds. A case-series study with medical assessments at five time points was conducted to characterize the syndrome after a double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial conducted among a group of study participants investigated the efficacy of cholestyramine (CSM) therapy. The general hypothesis of the time series study was that chronic exposure to the indoor air of WDBs is associated with SBS. Consecutive clinical patients were screened for diagnosis of SBS using criteria of exposure potential, symptoms involving at least five organ systems, and the absence of confounding factors. Twenty-eight cases signed voluntary consent forms for participation in the time-series study and provided samples of microbial contaminants from water-damaged areas in the buildings they occupied. Twenty-six participants with a group-mean duration of illness of 11 months completed examinations at all five study time points. Thirteen of those participants also agreed to complete a double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Data from Time Point 1 indicated a group-mean of 23 out of 37 symptoms evaluated; and visual contrast sensitivity (VCS), an indicator of neurological function, was abnormally low in all participants. Measurements of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9), leptin, alpha melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), immunoglobulin E (IgE), and pulmonary function were abnormal in 22, 13, 25, 14, 1, and 7 participants, respectively. Following 2 weeks of CSM therapy to enhance toxin elimination rates, measurements at Time Point 2 indicated group-means of 4 symptoms with 65% improvement in VCS at mid-spatial frequency-both statistically significant improvements relative to Time Point 1. Moderate improvements were seen in MMP9, leptin, and VEGF serum levels. The improvements in health status were maintained at Time Point 3 following a 2-week period during which CSM therapy was suspended and the participants avoid re-exposure to the WDBs. Participants reoccupied the respective WDBs for 3 days without CSM therapy, and all participants reported relapse at Time Point 4. The group-mean number of symptoms increased from 4 at Time Point 2 to 15 and VCS at mid-spatial frequency declined by 42%, both statistically significant differences relative to Time Point 2. Statistically significant differences in the group-mean levels of MMP9 and leptin relative to Time Point 2 were also observed. CSM therapy was reinstated for 2 weeks prior to assessments at Time Point 5. Measurements at Time Point 5 indicated group-means of 3 symptoms and a 69% increase in VCS, both results statistically different from those at Time Points 1 and 4. Optically corrected Snellen Distance Equivalent visual acuity scores did not vary significantly over the course of the study. Group-mean levels of MMP9 and leptin showed statistically significant improvement at Time Point 5 relative to Time Points 1 and 4, and the proportion of participants with abnormal VEGF levels was significantly lower at Time Point 5 than at Time Point 1. The number of participants at Time Point 5 with abnormal levels of MMP9, leptin, VEGF, and pulmonary function were 10, 10, 9, and 7, respectively. The level of IgE was not re-measured because of the low incidence of abnormality at Time Point 1, and MSH was not re-measured because previously published data indicated a long time course for MSH improvement. The results from the time series study supported the general study hypothesis that exposure to the indoor air of WDBs is associated with SBS. High levels of MMP9 indicated that exposure to the complex mixture of substances in the indoor air of the WDBs triggered a pro-inflammatory cytokine response. A model describing modes of action along a pathway leading to biotoxin-associated illness is presented to organize current knowledge into testable hypotheses. The model links an inflammatory response with tissue hypoxia, as indicated by abnormal levels of VEGF, and disruption of the proopiomelanocortin pathway in the hypothalamus, as evidenced by abnormalities in leptin and MSH levels. Results from the clinical trial on CSM efficacy indicated highly significant improvement in group-mean number of symptoms and VCS scores relative to baseline in the 7 participants randomly assigned to receive 2 weeks of CSM therapy, but no improvement in the 6 participants assigned placebo therapy during that time interval. However, those 6 participants also showed a highly significant improvement in group-mean number of symptoms and VCS scores relative to baseline following a subsequent 2-week period of CSM therapy. Because the only known benefit of CSM therapy is to enhance the elimination rates of substances that accumulate in bile by preventing re-absorption during enterohepatic re-circulation, results from the clinical trial also supported the general study hypothesis that SBS is associated with exposure to WDBs because the only relevant function of CSM is to bind and remove toxigenic compounds. Only research that focuses on the signs, symptoms, and biochemical markers of patients with persistent illness following acute and/or chronic exposure to WDBs can further the development of the model describing modes of action in the biotoxin-associated pathway and guide the development of innovative and efficacious therapeutic interventions.
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Hudnell HK. Chronic biotoxin-associated illness: Multiple-system symptoms, a vision deficit, and effective treatment. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2005; 27:733-43. [PMID: 16102938 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2005.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2004] [Accepted: 01/05/2005] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Blooms of toxigenic organisms have increased in spatial and temporal extent due to human activities and natural forces that alter ecologic habitats and pollute the environment. In aquatic environments, harmful algal blooms pose a risk for human health, the viability of organisms, and the sustainability of ecosystems. The estuarine dinoflagellate, Pfiesteria piscicida, was discovered in the late 1980s at North Carolina State University as a contaminant in fish cultures. P. piscicida was associated with fish death in laboratory aquaria, and illness among laboratory workers who inhaled the mist above aquaria. Both the fish and humans exhibited signs of toxicity. During the 1990s, large-scale mortality among fish and other aquatic organisms was associated with high concentrations of Pfiesteria sp. in estuaries on the eastern seaboard of North America from New York to Texas. Illness among humans was associated with direct exposure to estuaries and exposures to estuarine aerosols around the time of Pfiesteria-related fish kills. This review of the scientific literature on associations between Pfiesteria and human illness identified some of the possible mechanisms of action by which putative Pfiesteria toxins may have caused morbidity. Particular attention was given to the Pfiesteria-associated, human-illness syndrome known as Possible Estuary Associated Syndrome (PEAS). PEAS was characterized by multiple-system symptoms, deficits in neuropsychological tests of cognitive function, and rapid and severe decrements in visual contrast sensitivity (VCS), an indicator of neurologic function in the visual system. PEAS was diagnosed in acute and chronic illness cases, and was reacquired during re-exposure. Rapid normalization of PEAS signs and symptoms was achieved through the use of cholestyramine therapy. Cholestyramine, a non-absorbable polymer, has been used by humans to lower cholesterol levels since it was approved for that use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1958. When dissolved in water or juice and taken orally, cholestyramine binds with cholesterol, bile acids, and salts in the intestines, causing them to be eliminated rather than reabsorbed with bile during enterohepatic recirculation. Cholestyramine also has been reported to bind and eliminate a variety of toxic substances. The efficacy of cholestyramine therapy in treatment of PEAS supported the hypothesis that PEAS is a biotoxin-associated illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Kenneth Hudnell
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Neurotoxicology Division, MD:B105-05, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA.
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Lucchini R, Albini E, Benedetti L, Alessio L. Neurobehavioral science in hazard identification and risk assessment of neurotoxic agents--what are the requirements for further development? Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2005; 78:427-37. [PMID: 15895244 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-005-0607-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2004] [Accepted: 01/17/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Modern neurobehavioral methods find useful application in research into the early effects of exposure to neurotoxic agents in the environment. This paper briefly describes the history and evolution of neurobehavioral toxicology, reviews some current trends in research in this specific discipline and identifies the most important needs and challenges to be addressed in future studies. METHODS All published literature was considered, including ad hoc meeting reports. Further information was obtained directly from experts in the field. RESULTS The number of studies (including those in occupational, environmental and pediatric exposure) using neurobehavioral evaluation is constantly increasing. Regulatory agencies are using scientific data obtained through neurobehavioral assessment, which includes other areas such as neurosensory toxicology. However, further development of this discipline is facing a number of problems and issues. Three major areas that deserve further attention have been identified: (1) specific technical issues regarding testing development, (2) epidemiological issues regarding the study design, including the need for meta-analysis/multi-center studies and for longitudinal observation, and statistical issues regarding the most adequate models for the analysis and treatment of complex neurobehavioral datasets, and (3) the need for scientific consensus on the significance of adverse effects identified with neurobehavioral methods. CONCLUSIONS The importance of neurobehavioral toxicology in the evaluation of mechanisms of action and for preventive purposes is progressively growing. Further development is needed for the advancement of this discipline through collaboration between experts from different fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Lucchini
- Institute of Occupational Health, University of Brescia, P.le Spedali Civili 1, 25123 Brescia, Italy.
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Shoemaker RC, House DE. A time-series study of sick building syndrome: chronic, biotoxin-associated illness from exposure to water-damaged buildings. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2005; 27:29-46. [PMID: 15681119 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2004.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2004] [Revised: 07/30/2004] [Accepted: 07/30/2004] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The human health risk for chronic illnesses involving multiple body systems following inhalation exposure to the indoor environments of water-damaged buildings (WDBs) has remained poorly characterized and the subject of intense controversy. The current study assessed the hypothesis that exposure to the indoor environments of WDBs with visible microbial colonization was associated with illness. The study used a cross-sectional design with assessments at five time points, and the interventions of cholestyramine (CSM) therapy, exposure avoidance following therapy, and reexposure to the buildings after illness resolution. The methodological approach included oral administration of questionnaires, medical examinations, laboratory analyses, pulmonary function testing, and measurements of visual function. Of the 21 study volunteers, 19 completed assessment at each of the five time points. Data at Time Point 1 indicated multiple symptoms involving at least four organ systems in all study participants, a restrictive respiratory condition in four participants, and abnormally low visual contrast sensitivity (VCS) in 18 participants. Serum leptin levels were abnormally high and alpha melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH) levels were abnormally low. Assessments at Time Point 2, following 2 weeks of CSM therapy, indicated a highly significant improvement in health status. Improvement was maintained at Time Point 3, which followed exposure avoidance without therapy. Reexposure to the WDBs resulted in illness reacquisition in all participants within 1 to 7 days. Following another round of CSM therapy, assessments at Time Point 5 indicated a highly significant improvement in health status. The group-mean number of symptoms decreased from 14.9+/-0.8 S.E.M. at Time Point 1 to 1.2+/-0.3 S.E.M., and the VCS deficit of approximately 50% at Time Point 1 was fully resolved. Leptin and MSH levels showed statistically significant improvement. The results indicated that CSM was an effective therapeutic agent, that VCS was a sensitive and specific indicator of neurologic function, and that illness involved systemic and hypothalamic processes. Although the results supported the general hypothesis that illness was associated with exposure to the WDBs, this conclusion was tempered by several study limitations. Exposure to specific agents was not demonstrated, study participants were not randomly selected, and double-blinding procedures were not used. Additional human and animal studies are needed to confirm this conclusion, investigate the role of complex mixtures of bacteria, fungi, mycotoxins, endotoxins, and antigens in illness causation, and characterize modes of action. Such data will improve the assessment of human health risk from chronic exposure to WDBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritchie C Shoemaker
- Chronic Fatigue Center, 500 Market Street, Suite 103, Pocomoke City, MD 21851, United States
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Hitchcock EM, Dick RB, Krieg EF. Visual contrast sensitivity testing: A comparison of two F.A.C.T. test types. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2004; 26:271-7. [PMID: 15019960 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2003.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2003] [Accepted: 10/03/2003] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Measures of visual contrast sensitivity (VCS), rather than traditional measures of visual acuity using high-contrast stimuli, have been presented as better appraisals of visual dysfunction resulting from chemical exposures. The present study sought to determine if differences exist between two available measures of contrast sensitivity that use similar stimuli, specifically, a hand-held chart and an Optec 1000 vision tester. Monocular contrast sensitivity measures using both tests were obtained from 45 individuals as part of a NIOSH neurobehavioral test-battery appraisal. Test-retest reliability was found to be high for both the hand-held system and the Optec 1000 test (r=.750 and.773, respectively). In comparison to the automated test, the hand-held version produced statistically significant higher contrast sensitivity scores for lower spatial frequencies (1.5 and 3.0 cycles per degree) and lower scores for a relatively higher spatial frequency (18.0 cycles per degree [cpd]). Consequently, this study documents a difference in spatial frequency scores obtained with the hand-held form and Optec 1000 form of contrast sensitivity test, and attributes these differences to design characteristics affecting viewing. It is concluded that caution should be taken when making absolute comparisons of contrast sensitivity test scores between neurobehavioral studies that have used different forms of VCS testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward M Hitchcock
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Applied Research and Technology, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA.
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Hudnell HK, Shoemaker RC. A letter of comment on "Human health effects of exposure to Pfiesteria piscicida: a review" by Swinker and colleagues. Microbes Infect 2003; 5:345-7; author reply 349-50. [PMID: 12706447 DOI: 10.1016/s1286-4579(03)00036-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Krieg EF, Chrislip DW, Letz RE, Otto DA, Crespo CJ, Brightwell WS, Ehrenberg RL. Neurobehavioral test performance in the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2001; 23:569-89. [PMID: 11792526 DOI: 10.1016/s0892-0362(01)00177-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) contained three computerized neurobehavioral tests from the Neurobehavioral Evaluation System (NES): simple reaction time, symbol-digit substitution and serial digit learning. The neurobehavioral data that were collected came from a nationally representative sample of adults 20-59 years old. Performance on the tests was related to sex, age, education level, family income and race-ethnicity. Performance decreased as age increased, and increased as education level and family income increased. Differences in performance between sexes, levels of education and racial-ethnic groups tended to decrease as family income increased. The relationship between age and performance on the symbol-digit substitution test varied by education level and by racial-ethnic group. The relationship between age and performance on the serial digit learning test varied by racial-ethnic group. Questionnaire variables that were related to performance on one or more of the tests included the reported amount of last night's sleep, energy level, computer or video game familiarity, alcoholic beverages within the last 3 h and effort. Persons who took the tests in English or Spanish performed differently on the symbol-digit substitution and serial digit learning tests. Performance on all the tests decreased as test room temperature increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- E F Krieg
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Robert A. Taft Laboratories, 4676 Columbia Parkway, MS C-22, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA.
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Bunegin L, Mitzel HC, Miller CS, Gelineau JF, Tolstykh GP. Cognitive performance and cerebrohemodynamics associated with the Persian Gulf Syndrome. Toxicol Ind Health 2001; 17:128-37. [PMID: 12479508 DOI: 10.1191/0748233701th100oa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The Persian Gulf Syndrome generally manifests as a set of nonspecific complaints with emphasis on central nervous system impairment. The purpose of this study was to determine if cognitive performance and middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity (MCABFV) were altered in symptomatic Gulf War veterans (sGWVs) and asymptomatic Gulf War veterans (aGWVs) by exposure to low levels of acetone. MCABFV was assessed in male aGWVs (n = 8) and sGWVs (n = 8) during cognitive challenges while breathing 1) clean air, 2) a clean air placebo, and 3) a mixture of air and 40 parts per million (ppm) acetone. Pulmonary function was also evaluated. Pulmonary function tests showed no statistical differences between aGWVs and sGWVs while breathing clean air or 40 ppm acetone in air. Cognitive performance was similar during the clean air, placebo, and acetone test conditions for sGWVs and aGWVs. Data pooled across test conditions for each group indicated a statistically significant (P < 0.05) poorer performance primarily in memory and executive function tasks by sGWVs. sGWVs had a 34.2% higher baseline MCABFV than aGWVs (P < 0.05). Increases in MCABFV for aGWVs (averaged over all cognitive tasks for each test condition) ranged between 7.8% and 8.8%, and were not statistically significant. Increases for sGWVs ranged between 0.3% and 4.8%, averaged over all cognitive tasks for each test condition. No significant differences were noted between the clean air and placebo test conditions but both were significantly different to the acetone condition. Differences in MCABFV increases for each of the test conditions between aGWVs and sGWVs were also statistically significant. sGWV did not appear to demonstrate pulmonary dysfunction following exposure to acetone. They did, however, appear to have generally lower cognitive function as compared to aGWVs. sGWVs appeared to have a significant degree of autoregulatory disruption in cerebral perfusion, resulting in reduced cognitive reserve capacity and potentially impaired ability to handle complex cognitive tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Bunegin
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas 78229, USA.
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15
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Grandjean P, White RF, Sullivan K, Debes F, Murata K, Otto DA, Weihe P. Impact of contrast sensitivity performance on visually presented neurobehavioral tests in mercury-exposed children. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2001; 23:141-6. [PMID: 11348831 DOI: 10.1016/s0892-0362(01)00134-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Presentation of neuropsychological tests on a computer screen may involve a visual challenge to the examinee. The possible need for adjustment for visual contrast sensitivity on test performance was therefore determined from data on 917 mercury-exposed children who were examined at age 7 years. Contrast sensitivity was found to be associated with performance on the computer-assisted Continuous Performance Test. However, it showed similar associations with performance on traditional pencil-and-paper tests, especially Bender Visual Motor Gestalt Test and Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised (WISC-R) Block Designs. Contrast sensitivity was not associated with prenatal mercury exposure, and adjustment for visual function had only a negligible effect on the regression coefficients for mercury as predictor of neuropsychological deficits. The mercury-associated neurobehavioral deficits are therefore unlikely to be due to mercury-induced visual system dysfunction causing secondary deficits in cognitive domain testing. Visuospatial processing appears to be a determinant in contrast sensitivity performance, and careful consideration of whether to control for contrast sensitivity in future studies of neurotoxicant effects is therefore recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Grandjean
- Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, DK-5000 Odense, Denmark.
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17
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Walkowiak J, Altmann L, Krämer U, Sveinsson K, Turfeld M, Weishoff-Houben M, Winneke G. Cognitive and sensorimotor functions in 6-year-old children in relation to lead and mercury levels: adjustment for intelligence and contrast sensitivity in computerized testing. Neurotoxicol Teratol 1998; 20:511-21. [PMID: 9761589 DOI: 10.1016/s0892-0362(98)00010-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Within a larger environmental health screening program neurobehavioral measures were taken in 384 6-year-old children (mean age 74 months) in the cities of Leipzig, Gardelegen, and Duisburg. Lead concentrations in venous blood samples (PbB) and urinary mercury excretion in 24-h samples (HgU) were measured as markers of environmental exposure by electrothermal AAS. Dependent variables included two subtests from the WISC [vocabulary (V) and block design (BD)] as well as five tests from the NES2 [pattern comparison, pattern memory, tapping, simple reaction time, and the continuous performance test (CPT; child version)]. In addition, visual functions [visual acuity (TITMUS-test) and contrast sensitivity (FACT)] were tested as covariates. The overall average PbB (geometric mean) was 42.5 microg/l (upper 95% value = 89 microg/l). The overall average mercury excretion (HgU) was 0.16 microg/24 h. Whereas no significant or borderline associations between HgU and any of the target variables was found, significant negative associations were observed between PbB and verbal intelligence (WISC vocabulary but not WISC Block Design) and false-positive responses (false alarms), as well as false-negative responses (miss) in the CPT. Whereas parental education was the most important confounder for WISC performance, visual contrast sensitivity and computer familiarity also proved predictive for performance in several computer-based NES subtests. It is concluded that non-IQ measures, namely measures of sustained attention, are negatively affected in children with 95% of blood-lead levels below 90 microg/l, even after adjustment for intelligence and contrast sensitivity, whereas the causative role of lead in altering IQ functions remains somewhat equivocal, because important covariates could not be controlled for.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Walkowiak
- Division of Biological Psychology, Medical Institute of Environmental Hygiene at the Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Germany
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18
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Altmann L, Sveinsson K, Krämer U, Weishoff-Houben M, Turfeld M, Winneke G, Wiegand H. Visual functions in 6-year-old children in relation to lead and mercury levels. Neurotoxicol Teratol 1998; 20:9-17. [PMID: 9511165 DOI: 10.1016/s0892-0362(97)00070-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Within a larger comparative environmental health screening program in East and West Germany we investigated functions of the developing visual system in field experiments in a total of 384 children living in three different areas. Visual functions were assessed neurophysiologically by visual-evoked potentials (VEPs) and psychophysically by measuring the contrast sensitivity (CS). Blood lead concentrations and urinary mercury levels were used as markers of environmental and/or amalgam-derived exposure, respectively. The relationships among lead and mercury concentrations and the neurophysiological and psychophysical outcomes were investigated by means of linear regression analysis. After adjusting for confounding effects, statistically significant lead-related changes were found only for some of the VEP interpeak latencies, while some of the CS values were significantly reduced with increasing mercury concentrations. All other outcome variables were not significantly related to lead or mercury levels. It is concluded that even at blood lead levels in the range of 14 to 174 micrograms/l and at very low urinary mercury levels subtle changes in visual system functions can be measured.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Altmann
- Medical Institute of Environmental Hygiene, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany.
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Anger WK, Otto DA, Letz R. Symposium on computerized behavioral testing of humans in neurotoxicology research: overview of the proceedings. Neurotoxicol Teratol 1996; 18:347-50. [PMID: 8866523 DOI: 10.1016/0892-0362(96)00079-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The Symposium on Computerized Behavioral Testing of Humans in Neurotoxicology Research, held in Portland, OR (USA), on June 21-23, 1995, is the subject of the 23 articles in this issue of Neurotoxicology and Teratology. It is the first open forum to focus exclusively on computer-implemented behavioral test methods for neurotoxicology. Both the Symposium and this proceedings have been organized around the topics: new technologies and new batteries, confounders and methodologic factors, special populations (children), sensory and motor testing, clinical applications, and neurotoxicology research. The Symposium emphasized common approaches to computerized testing, highlighted fundamental differences in strategies for the selection of tests, and produced tangible evidence that the NES2 test battery has become a pervasively used instrument for presenting valid tests in human neurotoxicology research. However, the dominant impression drawn from the Symposium is that there is a methodologic vigor in the field of computerized behavioral testing. This is revealed by the appearance of new test batteries, criticism of existing procedures, challenges to the existing order of test selection, and the identification of analytic covariates for commonly used tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- W K Anger
- Center for Research on Occupational and Environmental Toxicology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201, USA
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