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Development of an Indexed Score to Identify the Most Suitable Sampling Method to Assess Occupational Exposure to Fungi. ATMOSPHERE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos13071123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The sampling approach is of utmost importance to obtain data regarding microbial viability and truly assess workers’ potential health effects. The purpose of this assessment is to create a score which will provide up-to-date information to identify the most suitable sampling method to assess occupational exposure to fungi. Data from a sampling campaign performed at Firefighters Headquarters (FFH) was analysed and a score was calculated from one (1) to three (3) for five (5) distinct sample parameters: (a) accuracy; (b) complexity of the field work; (c) cost; (d) complexity in laboratory work; and (e) time taken since the fieldwork until obtaining the fungal contamination characterization. The statistical analysis allowed us to conclude that settled dust and Andersen six-stage were the best sampling methods to perform the assessment of the occupational exposure to fungi at FFH, when considering the number of species. As for the final score, the results showed that surface swabs were the best sampling method. The results obtained for surface swabs highlights the low complexity of this processing combined with the fact that it is a low-cost sampling method. This study reinforces the need to use a wide array of sampling methods when assessing occupational exposure to fungal contamination to ensure an accurate risk characterization.
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Li L, Guan K, Zheng SG. Biochemical Characteristics and Allergenic Activity of Common Fungus Allergens. Curr Protein Pept Sci 2020; 21:170-185. [PMID: 31309887 DOI: 10.2174/1389203720666190712121243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 05/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Fungi form a large kingdom with more than 1.5 million species. Fungal spores are universal atmospheric components and are generally recognized as important causes of allergic disorders, including allergic rhinitis, allergic rhinosinusitis, asthma, and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis. The 4 genera which have the closest connection with allergic disorder are Cladosporium, Alternaria, Aspergillus and Penicillium. The cDNA sequences of many fungi allergens and the amino acids involved in their immunoglobulin E binding and T-cell activation have already been elucidated. Until now, 111 allergens from 29 fungal genera have been approved by the International Allergen Nomenclature Sub-committee. This review mainly focuses on the biochemical characteristics and allergenic activity of important allergens from common environmental fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisha Li
- Department of Allergy, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Diagnosis and Treatment on Allergic Diseases, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Kai Guan
- Department of Allergy, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Diagnosis and Treatment on Allergic Diseases, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Song Guo Zheng
- Ohio State College of Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
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Sollweck K, Schwaiger G, Seidel M. A chemiluminescence-based heterogeneous asymmetric recombinase polymerase amplification assay for the molecular detection of mycotoxin producers. Analyst 2020; 146:1074-1083. [PMID: 33346766 DOI: 10.1039/d0an02000a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The analysis of mold in indoor air is a prominent topic but it is hardly dealt with. The most affected fields of this issue are residential- and occupational safety since mold can have a number of impacts on human health. To date the most used methods for quantification of microorganism contamination in indoor air are culture- or microscopy-based and are not capable of translating the on-site situation to analytical data reliably. Here we present a chemiluminescence-based method to detect mycotoxin producers through isothermal amplification of mycotoxin biosynthesis genes using glass and polycarbonate carriers. In this proof-of-principle study, zearalenone producers were aimed to be detected by heterogeneous asymmetric recombinase polymerase amplification (haRPA). For this, an appropriate lysis method for fungal spores was developed allowing rapid access to DNA. A system calibration with spores of Fusarium culmorum as zearalenone-producing organism resulted in an LOD of 2.7 × 105 spores per ml. The system was shown to be specific for zearalenone producers. This work presents the first application of a heterogeneous isothermal amplification for rapid detection and quantification of mycotoxin producers. In the future, a multiplex detection can be possible by haRPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Sollweck
- Institute of Hydrochemistry, Chair of Analytical Chemistry and Water Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Marchioninistr 17, 81377 Munich, Germany.
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Caillaud D, Leynaert B, Keirsbulck M, Nadif R. Indoor mould exposure, asthma and rhinitis: findings from systematic reviews and recent longitudinal studies. Eur Respir Rev 2018; 27:27/148/170137. [PMID: 29769295 DOI: 10.1183/16000617.0137-2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Starting from the Institute of Medicine (IOM) and World Health Organization (WHO) reports, this review provides an overview of the literature published from 2006 to 2017 on the associations between indoor mould exposure and asthma and rhinitis separately in children and adults with a focus on longitudinal epidemiological studies.A systematic search of peer-reviewed literature was performed, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, longitudinal, incident case-control and panel studies. 61 publications were identified reporting visible mould or mould odour or quantitative assessment of culturable fungi or mould species.In children, visible mould and mould odour were associated with the development and exacerbations of asthma, providing sufficient evidence of a causal relationship. Results from population-based studies in adults were too few and divergent to conclude at more than a limited level of evidence. Exposure to mould in a work building was associated with the incidence and exacerbations of occupational asthma, and we concluded at a sufficient evidence for an association. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses and longitudinal studies on the relationships between mould exposure and allergic rhinitis provide sufficient evidence of an association.This review extended the conclusions of the IOM and WHO reports, and highlighted the need for further longitudinal studies on asthma in adults, and on rhinitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis Caillaud
- Pulmonary and Allergology Dept, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont Auvergne University, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Benedicte Leynaert
- INSERM, UMR1152, Pathophysiology and Epidemiology of Respiratory Diseases. Epidemiology, Paris, France.,Univ Paris Diderot Paris 7, UMR 1152, Paris, France
| | - Marion Keirsbulck
- ANSES (French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety), Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Rachel Nadif
- INSERM, U1168, VIMA: Ageing and Chronic Diseases, Epidemiological and Public Health Approaches, Villejuif, France.,Univ Versailles St-Quentin-en-Yvelines, UMR-S 1168, Montigny le Bretonneux, France
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Zhang Z, Reponen T, Hershey GKK. Fungal Exposure and Asthma: IgE and Non-IgE-Mediated Mechanisms. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2017; 16:86. [PMID: 27943046 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-016-0667-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Fungi are ubiquitous in indoor and outdoor environments and have been associated with respiratory disease including childhood and adult asthma. A growing body of evidence from human and animal studies has revealed a link between fungal exposure, especially indoor fungal exposure, with asthma initiation, persistence, and exacerbation. Despite the overwhelming evidence linking mold exposure and asthma, the mechanistic basis for the association has remained elusive. It is now clear that fungi need not be intact to impart negative health effects. Fungal components and fungal fragments are biologically active and contribute to asthma development and severity. Recent mechanistic studies have demonstrated that fungi are potent immunomodulators and have powerful effects on asthma independent of their potential to act as antigens. This paper will review the connection between fungal exposure and asthma with a focus on the immunological mechanisms underlying this relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonghua Zhang
- Division of Asthma Research, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave., MLC 7037, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Tiina Reponen
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Gurjit K Khurana Hershey
- Division of Asthma Research, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave., MLC 7037, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
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Arikoglu T, Batmaz SB, Coşkun T, Otag F, Yildirim DD, Kuyucu S. The characteristics of indoor and outdoor fungi and their relation with allergic respiratory diseases in the southern region of Turkey. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2016; 188:380. [PMID: 27236446 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-016-5371-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Indoor and outdoor fungal exposure has been shown to be associated with the development of allergic respiratory diseases. The aim of the study was to investigate the types and concentrations of airborne fungi inside and outside homes and evaluate the association between fungal levels and allergic diseases in the southern region of Turkey. A total of 61 children admitted with respiratory complaints to the pediatric allergy clinic between September 2007 and November 2008 were included in this study. The air samples were obtained using the Air IDEAL volumetric air sampler longitudinally for 1 year. A comprehensive questionnaire was used for medical history and housing conditions. Skin prick test was performed to determine fungal sensitivity and spirometric indices were employed. The predominant indoor fungal species were Cladosporium (69.3 %), Penicillium (18.9 %), Aspergillus (6.5 %), and Alternaria (3.1 %). A strong correlation between indoor and outdoor fungal levels was detected for the Cladosporium species (p < 0.001, r = 0.72) throughout the year. Living in a detached home (p = 0.036) and the presence of cockroaches (p = 0.005) were associated with total indoor fungal levels. The presence of cockroaches (aOR 3.5; 95 % CI 0.95-13.10, p = 0.059) was also associated with fungal sensitization at the edge of significance. The statistical cutoff values of indoor and outdoor Cladosporium levels to predict symptomatic asthma were found to be >176 CFU/m(3) (p = 0.003, AUC 0.696; sensitivity 65.5 %; specificity 68.7 %) and >327 CFU/m(3) (p = 0.038; AUC 0.713; sensitivity 66.6 %; specificity 76.9 %), respectively. Children with respiratory symptoms are exposed to a considerable level of fungi inside and outside their homes. The prevention of fungal exposure may provide valuable intervention for respiratory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tugba Arikoglu
- Department of Pediatric Allergy Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, 33343, Ciftlikkoy Kampusu, Mersin, Turkey.
| | - Sehra Birgul Batmaz
- Department of Pediatric Allergy Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, 33343, Ciftlikkoy Kampusu, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Taner Coşkun
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Feza Otag
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | | | - Semanur Kuyucu
- Department of Pediatric Allergy Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, 33343, Ciftlikkoy Kampusu, Mersin, Turkey
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Baxi SN, Portnoy JM, Larenas-Linnemann D, Phipatanakul W. Exposure and Health Effects of Fungi on Humans. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY-IN PRACTICE 2016; 4:396-404. [PMID: 26947460 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2016.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2015] [Revised: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Fungi are ubiquitous microorganisms that are present in outdoor and indoor environments. Previous research has found relationships between environmental fungal exposures and human health effects. We reviewed recent articles focused on fungal exposure and dampness as risk factors for respiratory disease development, symptoms, and hypersensitivity. In particular, we reviewed the evidence suggesting that early exposure to dampness or fungi is associated with the development of asthma and increased asthma morbidity. Although outdoor exposure to high concentrations of spores can cause health effects such as asthma attacks in association with thunderstorms, most people appear to be relatively unaffected unless they are sensitized to specific genera. Indoor exposure and dampness, however, appears to be associated with an increased risk of developing asthma in young children and asthma morbidity in individuals who have asthma. These are important issues because they provide a rationale for interventions that might be considered for homes and buildings in which there is increased fungal exposure. In addition to rhinitis and asthma, fungus exposure is associated with a number of other illnesses including allergic bronchopulmonary mycoses, allergic fungal sinusitis, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Additional research is necessary to establish causality and evaluate interventions for fungal- and dampness-related health effects.
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Abstract
Asthma is the most common chronic disease among children. It cannot be prevented but can be controlled. Industrialized countries experience high lifetime asthma prevalence that has increased over recent decades. Asthma has a complex interplay of genetic and environmental triggers. Studies have revealed complex interactions of lung structure and function genes with environmental exposures such as environmental tobacco smoke and vitamin D. Home environmental strategies can reduce asthma morbidity in children but should be tailored to specific allergens. Coupled with education and severity-specific asthma therapy, tailored interventions may be the most effective strategy to manage childhood asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica P Hollenbach
- Department of Pediatrics, Asthma Center, The Children's Center for Community Research, CT Children's Medical Center, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 282 Washington Street, Hartford, CT 06106, USA
| | - Michelle M Cloutier
- Department of Pediatrics, Asthma Center, The Children's Center for Community Research, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, University of Connecticut Health Center, 282 Washington Street, Hartford, CT 06106, USA.
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Kanchongkittiphon W, Mendell MJ, Gaffin JM, Wang G, Phipatanakul W. Indoor environmental exposures and exacerbation of asthma: an update to the 2000 review by the Institute of Medicine. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2015; 123:6-20. [PMID: 25303775 PMCID: PMC4286274 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1307922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 243] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2013] [Accepted: 10/09/2014] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research has found relationships between specific indoor environmental exposures and exacerbation of asthma. OBJECTIVES In this review we provide an updated summary of knowledge from the scientific literature on indoor exposures and exacerbation of asthma. METHODS Peer-reviewed articles published from 2000 to 2013 on indoor exposures and exacerbation of asthma were identified through PubMed, from reference lists, and from authors' files. Articles that focused on modifiable indoor exposures in relation to frequency or severity of exacerbation of asthma were selected for review. Research findings were reviewed and summarized with consideration of the strength of the evidence. RESULTS Sixty-nine eligible articles were included. Major changed conclusions include a causal relationship with exacerbation for indoor dampness or dampness-related agents (in children); associations with exacerbation for dampness or dampness-related agents (in adults), endotoxin, and environmental tobacco smoke (in preschool children); and limited or suggestive evidence for association with exacerbation for indoor culturable Penicillium or total fungi, nitrogen dioxide, rodents (nonoccupational), feather/down pillows (protective relative to synthetic bedding), and (regardless of specific sensitization) dust mite, cockroach, dog, and dampness-related agents. DISCUSSION This review, incorporating evidence reported since 2000, increases the strength of evidence linking many indoor factors to the exacerbation of asthma. Conclusions should be considered provisional until all available evidence is examined more thoroughly. CONCLUSION Multiple indoor exposures, especially dampness-related agents, merit increased attention to prevent exacerbation of asthma, possibly even in nonsensitized individuals. Additional research to establish causality and evaluate interventions is needed for these and other indoor exposures.
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Simoni M, Cai GH, Norback D, Annesi-Maesano I, Lavaud F, Sigsgaard T, Wieslander G, Nystad W, Canciani M, Viegi G, Sestini P. Total viable molds and fungal DNA in classrooms and association with respiratory health and pulmonary function of European schoolchildren. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2011; 22:843-52. [PMID: 22122789 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3038.2011.01208.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Indoor molds are associated with adverse respiratory effects in children. Although schools are important exposure sources of molds, objective measurements were more often taken in homes. Our aim was to assess indoor molds in schools and related effects on schoolchildren health. The Health Effects of the School Environment study (HESE) included 21 schools (46 classrooms) in Italy, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and France and 654 schoolchildren (mean age 10 yr). Information on schoolchildren was collected by standardized questionnaires. Measurements of total viable molds (VM, colony-forming units, cfu/m(3)) and total/specific fungal DNA (cell equivalents, CE/g dust) were taken inside all classrooms in the cold season during normal activities, using the same standardized methodology. Pulmonary function tests were performed on 244 pupils. VM (mean, 320,cfu/m(3)) and total fungal DNA (geometric mean, 2.2 × 10(5) ± 2.1 CE/g dust) were detectable in all classrooms. The levels were significantly higher in buildings with mold/dampness problems. VM, but not fungal DNA, were inversely related to ventilation rate. VM exceeded the maximum standard of 300 cfu/m(3) in 33% of the classrooms. In the past 12 months, dry cough at night (34%) and rhinitis (32%) were the mostly reported. Children exposed to VM levels ≥ 300 cfu/m(3), compared with those exposed to lower levels, showed higher risk for past year dry cough at night (odds ratio, OR: 3.10, 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.61-5.98) and rhinitis (OR: 2.86, 95% CI: 1.65-4.95), as well as for persistent cough (OR: 3.79, 95% CI: 2.40-5.60). Aspergillus/Penicillium DNA was significantly positively associated with wheeze, and Aspergillus versicolor DNA with wheeze, rhinitis, and cough. There were significant inverse associations of Aspergillus versicolor DNA with forced vitality capacity (FVC) and Streptomyces DNA with both FEV(1) and FVC. In conclusion, indoor VM and fungal DNA were commonly found in monitored European schools and adversely related to respiratory health. Schools should be routinely tested through both culturable and non-culturable methods for global indoor molds' evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Simoni
- Pulmonary Environmental Epidemiology Unit, CNR Institute of Clinical Physiology, Pisa, Italy.
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Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine. Current world literature. Curr Opin Pulm Med 2009; 15:79-87. [PMID: 19077710 DOI: 10.1097/mcp.0b013e32831fb1f3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Chiba S, Okada S, Suzuki Y, Watanuki Z, Mitsuishi Y, Igusa R, Sekii T, Uchiyama B. Cladosporium species-related hypersensitivity pneumonitis in household environments. Intern Med 2009; 48:363-7. [PMID: 19252363 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.48.1811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Home-related chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is sometimes difficult to discriminate because patients do not have an obvious history of antigen exposure. We report two HP cases which developed in an office area and in a home: a 47-year-old woman with acute-onset HP and a 72-year-old woman with chronic HP followed up as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis following isolation of Cladosporium cladosporioides and Cladosporium herbarum, respectively. Lymphocyte stimulating activity and antibody titer to these fungi were increased in these patients. Since Cladosporium spp. and several other fungi are present ubiquitously in our living environment, it is difficult to eliminate the antigen from the patients' environment to control the disease. Cladosporium spp. can be key antigens in inducing chronic HP in the home environment.
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Sahakian NM, Park JH, Cox-Ganser JM. Dampness and mold in the indoor environment: implications for asthma. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am 2008; 28:485-505, vii. [PMID: 18572103 DOI: 10.1016/j.iac.2008.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
This article presents epidemiologic findings pertinent to asthma and asthma-like symptoms in relation to exposure to dampness/mold in homes, schools, and workplaces. With regard to specific agents found in damp indoor environments that may play a role in asthma, it concentrates on mold (used synonymously with fungi) and includes some findings on bacteria. The literature on asthma in relation to dust mite or cockroach allergens is not addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- N M Sahakian
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute of Occupational Health and Safety, Division of Respiratory Disease Studies, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA.
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