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Zahradnik E, Sander I, Lotz A, Liebers V, Thullner I, Tacke S, Raulf M. Exposure levels of animal allergens, endotoxin, and β-(1,3)-glucan on a university campus of veterinary medicine. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288522. [PMID: 37440536 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study aimed to determine the allergen, endotoxin and β-(1,3)-glucan concentrations at various areas on a university campus of veterinary medicine. METHODS Dust samples were collected four times a year for three years using electrostatic dust collectors (EDC) at 25 different locations on a campus of veterinary medicine and in laboratories of inorganic chemistry as a control area representing animal-free environment. Major animal allergens from dog, cat, horse, cattle and mouse, domestic mite (DM) allergens, and β-(1,3)-glucan were measured using enzyme immunoassays and endotoxin using the limulus amoebocyte lysate (LAL) assay. Seasonal, annual and local influences on exposure levels were analyzed using Bayesian mixed models. RESULTS With the exception of mouse allergens, all other determinants were found in almost all locations on the campus and in the control area, but in up to 10.000-fold variable concentrations. By far the highest levels of feline, canine, equine and bovine allergens were detected in buildings where the respective species were examined. The highest levels of mouse and DM allergens, β-(1,3)-glucan and endotoxin occurred together and were associated with locations where large animals were present. In buildings without animals, allergen levels were considerably lower but still elevated at several locations compared to the control area, especially for dog and horse allergens, and β-(1,3)-glucan. Significant seasonal effects were observed for dog, cat, horse and DM allergens, and β-(1,3)-glucan. Variations between years were less apparent than between seasons (except for β-(1,3)-glucan). CONCLUSIONS The strongest influencing factor on the concentration of mammalian allergens was the presence of the corresponding animal at the collection site. Seasonal influence on allergen concentrations was observed, while the overall exposure remained constant over the years. At locations with horses, elevated levels of mite allergens, endotoxin, and β-(1,3)-glucan can be expected, probably due to passive transfer from stable environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Zahradnik
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Ingrid Sander
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Anne Lotz
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Verena Liebers
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | | | - Sabine Tacke
- Veterinary Medicine Clinic, Justus-Liebig-University Gießen, Gießen, Germany
| | - Monika Raulf
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
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2
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Seidel J, Magzamen S, Wang YH, Neujahr V, Schaeffer JW. Lessons from Dairy Farmers for Occupational Allergy and Respiratory Disease. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2023:10.1007/s11882-023-01081-2. [PMID: 37191901 PMCID: PMC10186320 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-023-01081-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Exposure to bioaerosols at dairies has long been associated with allergy, respiratory disease, and decreases in lung function. Recent advancements in exposure assessments have aided our understanding on the size distribution and composition of these bioaerosols, but investigations focusing solely on exposures may overlook important intrinsic factors impacting worker's susceptibility to disease. RECENT FINDINGS In our review, we discuss the most recent studies examining the exposures and genetic factors that contribute to occupational disease in dairy work. We also review more recent concerns in livestock work associated with zoonotic pathogens, antimicrobial resistant genes, and the role of the human microbiome. The studies highlighted in this review demonstrate the need for further research to better understand bioaerosol exposure-response relationships in the context of extrinsic and intrinsic factors, antibiotic-resistant genes, viral pathogens, and the human microbiome to help inform effective interventions that improve respiratory health among dairy farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Seidel
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, 1681 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523-1681, USA
| | - S Magzamen
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, 1681 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523-1681, USA
| | - Y H Wang
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, 1681 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523-1681, USA
| | - V Neujahr
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, 1681 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523-1681, USA
| | - J W Schaeffer
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, 1681 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523-1681, USA.
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Amin H, Marshall IPG, Bertelsen RJ, Wouters IM, Schlünssen V, Sigsgaard T, Šantl-Temkiv T. Optimization of bacterial DNA and endotoxin extraction from settled airborne dust. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 857:159455. [PMID: 36252657 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Collecting and obtaining sufficient amount of airborne particles for multiple microbial component assessments can be challenging. A passive dust sampling device, the electrostatic dust fall collector (EDC) has been established for assessing airborne exposures including endotoxin and glucans. Recently, with advances in next-generation sequencing techniques, EDCs were used to collect microbial cells for DNA sequencing analysis to promote the study of airborne bacterial and fungal communities. However, low DNA yields have been problematic when employing passive sampling with EDC. To address this challenge, we attempted to increase the efficiency of extraction. We compared DNA extraction efficiency of bacterial components from EDCs captured on filters through filtration using five extraction techniques. By measuring the abundance, diversity and structure of bacterial communities using qPCR and amplicon sequencing targeting 16S rRNA genes, we found that two techniques outperformed the rest. Furthermore, we developed protocols to simultaneously extract both DNA and endotoxin from a single EDC cloth. Our technique promotes a high quality to price ratio and may be employed in large epidemiological studies addressing airborne bacterial exposure where a large number of samples is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesham Amin
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Ian P G Marshall
- Section for Microbiology, Department of Biology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Randi J Bertelsen
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Inge M Wouters
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Vivi Schlünssen
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Torben Sigsgaard
- Department of Public Health, Environment, Work and Health, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Tina Šantl-Temkiv
- Section for Microbiology, Department of Biology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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4
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Zahradnik E, Sander I, Kleinmüller O, Lotz A, Liebers V, Janssen-Weets B, Kler S, Hilger C, Beine A, Hoffmeyer F, Nienhaus A, Raulf M. Animal Allergens, Endotoxin, and β-(1,3)-Glucan in Small Animal Practices: Exposure Levels at Work and in Homes of Veterinary Staff. Ann Work Expo Health 2021; 66:27-40. [PMID: 34363388 PMCID: PMC8751790 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxab053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In veterinary settings, high exposures to animal allergens and microbial agents can be expected. However, occupational exposure levels are largely unknown. The objective of this study was to estimate the allergen, endotoxin, and β-(1,3)-glucan concentrations in small animal practices and in the homes of practice employees. METHODS Dust samples were collected using electrostatic dust fall collectors in diverse rooms of 36 small animal practices, as well as in employees' homes. Major animal allergens (Fel d 1, Can f 1, Ory c 3, Cav p 1, Equ c 1, Bos d 2), domestic mite (DM) allergens, and β-(1,3)-glucan levels were measured using enzyme immunoassays. Endotoxin was determined using the Limulus amoebocyte lysate assay. Influences on exposure levels were analyzed using multilevel models. RESULTS The levels of Can f 1, Fel d 1, Ory c 3, and Cav p 1 were up to 30 times higher in practices compared with homes without animals, but significantly lower compared with the homes with the respective pet. Although horses were not treated in the practices, Equ c 1 was found in 87.5% of samples, with the highest concentrations measured in changing rooms. DM levels were significantly lower in practices than in all private homes, and endotoxin levels were similar to those in homes with pets. In the practice itself, exposure levels were significantly influenced by animal presence, type of the room, and area per employee; whereas, room volume and diverse cleaning measures had mostly no effect. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to animal allergens is high in veterinary practices, but it does not reach levels of households with pets. Domestic mite allergen and endotoxin exposure seem to be low for workers in veterinary practices. The high Equ c 1 detection rate strongly indicates dispersal of allergens, most likely through clothing and hair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Zahradnik
- Department of Allergology and Immunology, Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +49-3013001-4325; e-mail:
| | - Ingrid Sander
- Department of Allergology and Immunology, Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Olaf Kleinmüller
- CVcare, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anne Lotz
- Department of Epidemiology, Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Verena Liebers
- Department of Allergology and Immunology, Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Bente Janssen-Weets
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxemburg Institute of Health, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxemburg
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy Center, Odense Research Center for Anaphylaxis, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Stéphanie Kler
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxemburg Institute of Health, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxemburg
| | - Christiane Hilger
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxemburg Institute of Health, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxemburg
| | - Alexandra Beine
- Department of Medicine, Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Frank Hoffmeyer
- Department of Medicine, Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Albert Nienhaus
- CVcare, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Hazardous Substances and Health Research (AGG), Institution for Statutory Accident Insurance and Prevention in the Health and Welfare Services (BGW), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Monika Raulf
- Department of Allergology and Immunology, Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
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Sigsgaard T, Basinas I, Doekes G, de Blay F, Folletti I, Heederik D, Lipinska-Ojrzanowska A, Nowak D, Olivieri M, Quirce S, Raulf M, Sastre J, Schlünssen V, Walusiak-Skorupa J, Siracusa A. Respiratory diseases and allergy in farmers working with livestock: a EAACI position paper. Clin Transl Allergy 2020; 10:29. [PMID: 32642058 PMCID: PMC7336421 DOI: 10.1186/s13601-020-00334-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Farmers constitute a large professional group worldwide. In developed countries farms tend to become larger, with a concentration of farm operations. Animal farming has been associated with negative respiratory effects such as work-related asthma and rhinitis. However, being born and raised or working on a farm reduces the risk of atopic asthma and rhinitis later in life. A risk of chronic bronchitis and bronchial obstruction/COPD has been reported in confinement buildings and livestock farmers. This position paper reviews the literature linking exposure information to intensive animal farming and the risk of work-related respiratory diseases and focuses on prevention. Animal farming is associated with exposure to organic dust containing allergens and microbial matter including alive microorganisms and viruses, endotoxins and other factors like irritant gases such as ammonia and disinfectants. These exposures have been identified as specific agents/risk factors of asthma, rhinitis, chronic bronchitis, COPD and reduced FEV1. Published studies on dust and endotoxin exposure in livestock farmers do not show a downward trend in exposure over the last 30 years, suggesting that the workforce in these industries is still overexposed and at risk of developing respiratory disease. In cases of occupational asthma and rhinitis, avoidance of further exposure to causal agents is recommended, but it may not be obtainable in agriculture, mainly due to socio-economic considerations. Hence, there is an urgent need for focus on farming exposure in order to protect farmers and others at work in these and related industries from developing respiratory diseases and allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Sigsgaard
- Department of Environment Occupation & Health, Dept of Public Health, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, Build. 1260, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - I Basinas
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Edinburgh, UK
| | - G Doekes
- Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - F de Blay
- Division of Asthma and Allergy, Department of Chest Diseases, University Hospital, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Strasbourg University, Strasbourg, France
| | - I Folletti
- Occupational Medicine, Terni Hospital, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - D Heederik
- Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - A Lipinska-Ojrzanowska
- Department of Occupational Diseases and Environmental Health, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland
| | - D Nowak
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich, Germany.,Comprehensive Pneumology Center Munich, Member DZL, German Centre for Lung Research, Munich, Germany
| | - M Olivieri
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - S Quirce
- Department of Allergy, Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ) and CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Madrid, Spain
| | - M Raulf
- IPA Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - J Sastre
- Department of Allergy, Fundación Jiménez Díaz, CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias (Ciberes), Madrid, Spain
| | - V Schlünssen
- Department of Environment Occupation & Health, Dept of Public Health, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, Build. 1260, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - J Walusiak-Skorupa
- Department of Occupational Diseases and Environmental Health, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland
| | - A Siracusa
- Formerly Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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6
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Samadi S, Heederik DJJ, Zahradnik E, Rietbroek NNJ, van Eerdenburg F, Sander I, Raulf M, Wouters IM. Bovine Allergens in a Ruminant Clinic and Dairy Barns: Exposure Levels, Determinants, and Variability. Ann Work Expo Health 2019; 62:663-673. [PMID: 29718069 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxy028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dairy farmers may develop specific sensitization and allergic airway diseases due to bovine allergens. However, dose-response relationships are lacking, and as yet little is known on bovine allergen exposure levels. Objective To investigate bovine allergen exposure levels in a ruminant clinic and dairy barns, and to assess exposure determinants and variability of exposure. Methods Samples were collected using active and passive airborne dust measurements in a ruminant clinic and several dairy barns. Bovine allergen levels were determined by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Linear mixed models were applied to explore the association between bovine allergen exposure levels and potential exposure determinants. Day-to-day within-worker and between-worker exposure variability was determined, as well as how exposure determinants affect exposure variability. Results Bovine allergens were measureable in all samples. Personal bovine allergen exposure levels in the ruminant clinic ranged from 0.10 to 24.8 µg/m3, geometric mean (GM) 1.34 µg/m3. Exposure levels varied dependent on job titles. Personal exposure levels in dairy barns ranged from 0.10 to 46.8 µg/m3, GM 1.47 µg/m3. Type of bedding materials in the barns appeared to be a significant determinant of bovine allergen levels. Compost bedding, particularly, increased allergen levels. Milking by robot was the most important determinant explaining between-worker exposure variability, while bedding was important as well. Bovine allergen levels in stationary measurements were somewhat lower than personal measurements (GM ratio 0.47). Bovine allergens could be readily detected in electrostatic dust-fall collector measurements. Conclusion This study provides insight in bovine allergen exposure levels and their determinants, which is a first step to investigate dose-response relationships between sensitization/allergy associated with exposure to bovine allergen levels in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadegh Samadi
- Department of Occupational Health, Health Faculty, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran.,Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, TD Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Dick J J Heederik
- Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, TD Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Eva Zahradnik
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance (IPA), Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Nancy N J Rietbroek
- Department of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, CN Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Frank van Eerdenburg
- Department of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, CN Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ingrid Sander
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance (IPA), Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Monika Raulf
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance (IPA), Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Inge M Wouters
- Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, TD Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Abstract
This article on exposome and asthma focuses on the interaction of patients and their environments in various parts of their growth, development, and stages of life. Indoor and outdoor environments play a role in pathogenesis via levels and duration of exposure, with genetic susceptibility as a crucial factor that alters the initiation and trajectory of common conditions such as asthma. Knowledge of environmental exposures globally and changes that are occurring is necessary to function effectively as medical professionals and health advocates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahila Subramanian
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Respiratory Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, CWRU School of Medicine, 9500 Euclid Avenue/A90, Cleveland, OH 4419, USA
| | - Sumita B Khatri
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Respiratory Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, CWRU School of Medicine, 9500 Euclid Avenue/A90, Cleveland, OH 4419, USA.
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Vestergaard DV, Holst GJ, Basinas I, Elholm G, Schlünssen V, Linneberg A, Šantl-Temkiv T, Finster K, Sigsgaard T, Marshall IPG. Pig Farmers' Homes Harbor More Diverse Airborne Bacterial Communities Than Pig Stables or Suburban Homes. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:870. [PMID: 29765370 PMCID: PMC5938556 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.00870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Airborne bacterial communities are subject to conditions ill-suited to microbial activity and growth. In spite of this, air is an important transfer medium for bacteria, with the bacteria in indoor air having potentially major consequences for the health of a building’s occupants. A major example is the decreased diversity and altered composition of indoor airborne microbial communities as a proposed explanation for the increasing prevalence of asthma and allergies worldwide. Previous research has shown that living on a farm confers protection against development of asthma and allergies, with airborne bacteria suggested as playing a role in this protective effect. However, the composition of this beneficial microbial community has still not been identified. We sampled settled airborne dust using a passive dust sampler from Danish pig stables, associated farmers’ homes, and from suburban homes (267 samples in total) and carried out quantitative PCR measurements of bacterial abundance and MiSeq sequencing of the V3–V4 region of bacterial 16S rRNA genes found in these samples. Airborne bacteria had a greater diversity and were significantly more abundant in pig stables and farmers’ homes than suburban homes (Wilcoxon rank sum test P < 0.05). Moreover, bacterial taxa previously suggested to contribute to a protective effect had significantly higher relative and absolute abundance in pig stables and farmers’ homes than in suburban homes (ALDEx2 with P < 0.05), including Firmicutes, Peptostreptococcaceae, Prevotellaceae, Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, Ruminiclostridium, and Lactobacillus. Pig stables had significantly lower airborne bacterial diversity than farmers’ homes, and there was no discernable direct transfer of airborne bacteria from stable to home. This study identifies differences in indoor airborne bacterial communities that may be an important component of this putative protective effect, while showing that pig stables themselves do not appear to directly contribute to the airborne bacterial communities in the homes of farmers. These findings improve our understanding of the role of airborne bacteria in the increasing prevalence of asthma and allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ditte V Vestergaard
- Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Section for Microbiology, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Gitte J Holst
- Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ioannis Basinas
- Centre for Human Exposure Science, Institute of Occupational Medicine, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Grethe Elholm
- Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Vivi Schlünssen
- Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Allan Linneberg
- Department of Clinical Experimental Research, Rigshospitalet, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Research Centre for Prevention and Health, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Tina Šantl-Temkiv
- Section for Microbiology, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kai Finster
- Section for Microbiology, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Torben Sigsgaard
- Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ian P G Marshall
- Section for Microbiology, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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9
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review explores animal allergen exposure in research laboratories and other work settings, focusing on causes and prevention. RECENT FINDINGS (1) Consistent with the hygiene hypothesis, there is new evidence that early childhood exposure to pets produces changes in the gut microbiome that likely lead to a lower risk of allergy. (2) Anaphylaxis from laboratory animal bites occurs more frequently than suggested by prior literature. (3) Animal allergens represent an occupational hazard in a wide variety of work settings ranging from fields that work with animals to public settings like schools and public transportation where allergens are brought into or are present in the workplace. Exposure to animal allergens can result in allergy, asthma, and anaphylaxis. Animal allergy has been most studied in the research laboratory setting, where exposure reduction can prevent the development of allergy. Similar prevention approaches need to be considered for other animal work environments and in all settings where animal allergens are present.
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10
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Würtz ET, Bønløkke JH, Urth TR, Larsen J, Islam MZ, Sigsgaard T, Schlünssen V, Skou T, Madsen AM, Feld L, Moslehi-Jenabian S, Skov RL, Omland Ø. No apparent transmission of livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus CC398 in a survey of staff at a regional Danish hospital. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control 2017; 6:126. [PMID: 29255600 PMCID: PMC5729513 DOI: 10.1186/s13756-017-0284-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In recent years, livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA) multi locus sequence type CC398 has spread widely in the livestock production in Europe. The rates of LA-MRSA in hospitals have been found to be largely determined by contact to and density of livestock in the area. Methods This is a cross sectional study of the prevalence of LA-MRSA among hospital staff in a Danish hospital situated in a livestock production region. We analysed nasal swabs, air and dust samples for the presence of MRSA using PCR and mass spectrometry. Results Of 1745 employees, 545 (31%) contributed nasal swabs. MRSA was not detected in any participant, nor was it detected in air or dust at the hospital or in houses of employees living on farms. Four percent of the participants had contact to pigs either directly or through household members. LA-MRSA was detected in two of 26 samples from animal sheds, both of them from pig farms. The participation rate was relatively low, but participants were representative for the source population with regards to animal contact and job titles. Conclusions The study suggests a low point prevalence of LA-MRSA carriage in Danish hospital staff even in regions where livestock production is dense. Should more studies confirm our findings we see no need for additional hospital precautions towards LA-MRSA in Denmark at the moment. We think that our data might reduce potential stigmatization of hospital workers with contact to LA-MRSA positive farms at their work places and in their communities. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13756-017-0284-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Else Toft Würtz
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aalborg University Hospital, Havrevangen 1,4, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Jakob Hjort Bønløkke
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aalborg University Hospital, Havrevangen 1,4, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark.,Section of Environment, Work and Health, Department of Public Health, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Tinna Ravnholt Urth
- Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jesper Larsen
- Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Md Zohorul Islam
- Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Torben Sigsgaard
- Section of Environment, Work and Health, Department of Public Health, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Vivi Schlünssen
- Section of Environment, Work and Health, Department of Public Health, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Troels Skou
- Section of Environment, Work and Health, Department of Public Health, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anne Mette Madsen
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Louise Feld
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | | | - Robert Leo Skov
- Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Øyvind Omland
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aalborg University Hospital, Havrevangen 1,4, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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11
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Zahradnik E, Raulf M. Respiratory Allergens from Furred Mammals: Environmental and Occupational Exposure. Vet Sci 2017; 4:vetsci4030038. [PMID: 29056697 PMCID: PMC5644656 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci4030038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Revised: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Furry mammals kept as pets, farm and laboratory animals are important allergen sources. The prevalence of sensitization to furred mammals appears to be increasing worldwide. Several mammalian allergens from diverse species are well characterized with regard to their molecular structure and immunogenicity, and some are already available for component-resolved allergy diagnostics. The distribution of various mammalian allergens has been extensively studied during the past few decades. Animal allergens were found to be ubiquitous in the human environment, even in places where no animals reside, with concentrations differing considerably between locations and geographical regions. This review presents an overview of identified mammalian respiratory allergens classified according to protein families, and compiles the results of allergen exposure assessment studies conducted in different public and occupational environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Zahradnik
- Center of Allergology/Immunology, Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bürkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789 Bochum, Germany.
| | - Monika Raulf
- Center of Allergology/Immunology, Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bürkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789 Bochum, Germany.
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12
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Abstract
Furry mammals kept as pets, farm and laboratory animals are important allergen sources. The prevalence of sensitization to furred mammals appears to be increasing worldwide. Several mammalian allergens from diverse species are well characterized with regard to their molecular structure and immunogenicity, and some are already available for component-resolved allergy diagnostics. The distribution of various mammalian allergens has been extensively studied during the past few decades. Animal allergens were found to be ubiquitous in the human environment, even in places where no animals reside, with concentrations differing considerably between locations and geographical regions. This review presents an overview of identified mammalian respiratory allergens classified according to protein families, and compiles the results of allergen exposure assessment studies conducted in different public and occupational environments.
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13
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Sander I, Lotz A, Zahradnik E, Raulf M. Allergen Quantification by Use of Electrostatic Dust Collectors (EDCs): Influence of Deployment Time, Extraction Buffer, and Storage Conditions on the Results. ANNALS OF OCCUPATIONAL HYGIENE 2016; 60:845-59. [DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/mew027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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14
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Occupational exposures in the agricultural industry are associated with numerous lung diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, lung cancer, and interstitial lung diseases. Efforts are ongoing to ascertain contributing factors to these negative respiratory outcomes and improve monitoring of environmental factors leading to disease. In this review, recently published studies investigating the deleterious effects of occupational exposures in the agricultural industry are discussed. RECENT FINDINGS Occupational exposures to numerous agricultural environment aerosols, including pesticides, fungi, and bacteria are associated with impaired respiratory function and disease. Increases in certain farming practices, including mushroom and greenhouse farming, present new occupational exposure concerns. Improved detection methods may provide opportunities to better monitor safe exposure levels to known lung irritants. SUMMARY In the agricultural industry, occupational exposures to organic and inorganic aerosols lead to increased risk for lung disease among workers. Increased awareness of respiratory risks and improved monitoring of agricultural environments are necessary to limit pulmonary health risks to exposed populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kristina L. Bailey
- VA Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division, Omaha, NE
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15
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Kespohl S, Campo P, Zahradnik E, Maryska S, Aranda-Guerrero A, Rodriguez J, Brüning T, Raulf M. Quantification of obeche wood allergen: Development of a sensitive sandwich-ELISA for occupational exposure assessment. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2016; 79:1070-1077. [PMID: 27924719 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2016.1219577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Obeche wood is a prominent cause of allergic occupational asthma. To reduce the risk of immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated sensitization it is important to assess airborne obeche wood allergen concentrations at exposed workplaces. Therefore, a highly sensitive obeche wood allergen immunoassay was developed and applicability was proven on airborne passive dust samples in Spanish wood workshops. Obeche wood sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) polyclonal antibodies (pAbs) were developed. Test specificity was verified by different wood and mold extracts. Obeche wood allergen monitoring was conducted in four Spanish wood workshops, including wood-dust-exposed and nonexposed areas inside and outside the workplaces, as well as controls. Dust was collected with electrostatic dust collectors (EDC). Measuring range of the obeche wood sandwich-ELISA was between 36 pg/ml and 1.6 µg/ml. The test system showed only marginal reactivity to other hardwoods and no reactivity to softwoods and molds. Obeche allergen was detected in all EDC from workplaces. The highest concentration was measured in the workshop with the longest obeche wood exposure (geometric mean [GM]: 7548 µg/m2); shorter obeche wood processing periods resulted in lower amounts of allergen (GM: 29 µg/m2). Obeche wood allergen transfer from exposed workplaces to nonexposed areas inside and outside the workshop was assessed. In control EDC from nonexposed facilities/homes no obeche wood allergen was found. The new obeche wood sandwich-ELISA is a valid tool to quantify obeche allergen exposure. Evidence indicates it will be possible to monitor obeche allergen exposure during different processes, as well as transfer effects in nonexposed areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Kespohl
- a Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance , Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA) , Bochum , Germany
| | - P Campo
- b UGC Allergy, Regional Hospital of Malaga-IBIMA , Málaga , Espania
| | - E Zahradnik
- a Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance , Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA) , Bochum , Germany
| | - S Maryska
- a Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance , Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA) , Bochum , Germany
| | | | - J Rodriguez
- b UGC Allergy, Regional Hospital of Malaga-IBIMA , Málaga , Espania
| | - T Brüning
- a Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance , Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA) , Bochum , Germany
| | - M Raulf
- a Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance , Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA) , Bochum , Germany
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16
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Böhlandt A, Schierl R, Heizinger J, Dietrich-Gümperlein G, Zahradnik E, Bruckmaier L, Sültz J, Raulf M, Nowak D. Cow hair allergen concentrations in dairy farms with automatic and conventional milking systems: From stable to bedroom. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2015; 219:79-87. [PMID: 26424445 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2015.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2015] [Revised: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Bovine hair and dander are considered to be a notable risk factor for sensitization and allergic symptoms in occupationally exposed cattle farmers due to various IgE binding proteins. Farmers are suspected not only to be exposed during their work inside the stables but also inside their homes as allergens could be transferred via hair and clothes resulting in continued bovine allergen exposure in private areas. In recent years a new sensitive sandwich ELISA (enzyme linked immunosorbent assay) test has been developed to measure the cow hair allergen (CHA) concentration in dust. The aim of the present study was to determine the CHA concentration in airborne and settled dust samples in stables and private rooms of dairy cattle farms with automatic milking systems (AM) and conventional milking systems (CM), also with respect to questionnaire data on farming characteristics. For this purpose different sampling techniques were applied, and results and practicability of the techniques were compared. Dust sampling was performed in the stable, computer room (only AM), changing room, living room and bedroom (mattress) of 12 dairy farms with automatic milking systems (AM group) and eight dairy farms with conventional milking systems (CM group). Altogether, 90 samples were taken by ALK filter dust collectors from all locations, while 32 samples were collected by an ion charging device (ICD) and 24 samples by an electronic dust fall collector (EDC) in computer rooms (AM) and/or changing and living rooms (not stables). The dust samples were extracted and analyzed for CHA content with a sandwich ELISA. At all investigated locations, CHA concentrations were above the limit of detection (LOD) of 0.1 ng/ml dust extract. The median CHA concentrations in dust collected by ALK filters ranged from 63 to 7154 μg/g dust in AM farms and from 121 to 5627 μg/g dust in CM farms with a steep concentration gradient from stables to bedrooms. ICD sampling revealed median CHA contents of 112 μg/g airborne dust in the computer rooms of the AM farms and median CHA loads of 5.6 μg/g (AM farms) and 19.8 μg/g (CM farms) in the living rooms. Passive dust sampling by EDC was performed only at two locations in the AM group resulting in median CHA values of 116 μg/m(2) (computer room) and 55.0 μg/m(2) (changing room). Except for the stable samples the median CHA load was lower in AM farms compared to CM farms. The CHA contents of ALK filter samples were significantly correlated in most locations. Differences between the farming types were not significant. Although allergen transfer to the private area of the farmers has been found and results from several locations were correlated, differences in CHA concentrations were not significant with respect to questionnaire data such as the wearing of stable clothes in living room, free access of pets to stable and home, frequency of hair washing. All sampling techniques seem to being practicable for simple and effective CHA measurement.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Böhlandt
- Institute and Outpatient Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Clinical Center, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Munich, Germany
| | - R Schierl
- Institute and Outpatient Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Clinical Center, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Munich, Germany.
| | - J Heizinger
- Institute and Outpatient Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Clinical Center, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Munich, Germany
| | - G Dietrich-Gümperlein
- Institute and Outpatient Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Clinical Center, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Munich, Germany
| | - E Zahradnik
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Ruhr-University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - L Bruckmaier
- Social Insurance for Agriculture, Forestry and Horticulture Niederbayern/Oberpfalz und Schwaben, Landshut, Germany
| | - J Sültz
- Occupational and Internal Medicine, Pneumology, Neusäss, Germany
| | - M Raulf
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Ruhr-University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - D Nowak
- Institute and Outpatient Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Clinical Center, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Munich, Germany
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