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Zhang H, Wang J, Liang Z, Wu Y. Non-linear effects of meteorological factors on COVID-19: An analysis of 440 counties in the americas. Heliyon 2024; 10:e31160. [PMID: 38778977 PMCID: PMC11109897 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In the last three years, COVID-19 has caused significant harm to both human health and economic stability. Analyzing the causes and mechanisms of COVID-19 has significant theoretical and practical implications for its prevention and mitigation. The role of meteorological factors in the transmission of COVID-19 is crucial, yet their relationship remains a subject of intense debate. Methods To mitigate the issues arising from short time series, large study units, unrepresentative data and linear research methods in previous studies, this study used counties or districts with populations exceeding 100,000 or 500,000 as the study unit. The commencement of local outbreaks was determined by exceeding 100 cumulative confirmed cases. Pearson correlation analysis, generalized additive model (GAM) and distributed lag nonlinear model (DLNM) were used to analyze the relationship and lag effect between the daily new cases of COVID-19 and meteorological factors (temperature, relative humidity, solar radiation, surface pressure, precipitation, wind speed) across 440 counties or districts in seven countries of the Americas, spanning from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2021. Results The linear correlations between daily new cases and meteorological indicators such as air temperature, relative humidity and solar radiation were not significant. However, the non-linear correlations were significant. The turning points in the relationship for temperature, relative humidity and solar radiation were 5 °C and 23 °C, 74 % and 750 kJ/m2, respectively. Conclusion The influence of meteorological factors on COVID-19 is non-linear. There are two thresholds in the relationship with temperature: 5 °C and 23 °C. Below 5 °C and above 23 °C, there is a positive correlation, while between 5 °C and 23 °C, the correlation is negative. Relative humidity and solar radiation show negative correlations, but there is a change in slope at about 74 % and 750 kJ/m2, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- School of Geography, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
- Jiangsu Center for Collaborative Innovation in Geographical Information Resource Development and Application, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Jian Wang
- School of Geography, Jiangsu Second Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211200, China
- Jiangsu Center for Collaborative Innovation in Geographical Information Resource Development and Application, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Zhong Liang
- School of Geography, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Yuting Wu
- School of Geography, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
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2
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Weller RB. Sunlight: Time for a Rethink? J Invest Dermatol 2024:S0022-202X(24)00280-X. [PMID: 38661623 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2023.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
UVR is a skin carcinogen, yet no studies link sun exposure to increased all-cause mortality. Epidemiological studies from the United Kingdom and Sweden link sun exposure with reduced all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality. Vitamin D synthesis is dependent on UVB exposure. Individuals with higher serum levels of vitamin D are healthier in many ways, yet multiple trials of oral vitamin D supplementation show little benefit. Growing evidence shows that sunlight has health benefits through vitamin D-independent pathways, such as photomobilization of nitric oxide from cutaneous stores with reduction in cardiovascular morbidity. Sunlight has important systemic health benefit as well as risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard B Weller
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Department of Dermatology, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
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3
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Tang X, Yang T, Yu D, Xiong H, Zhang S. Current insights and future perspectives of ultraviolet radiation (UV) exposure: Friends and foes to the skin and beyond the skin. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 185:108535. [PMID: 38428192 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108535] [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: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is ubiquitous in the environment, which has been classified as an established human carcinogen. As the largest and outermost organ of the body, direct exposure of skin to sunlight or UV radiation can result in sunburn, inflammation, photo-immunosuppression, photoaging and even skin cancers. To date, there are tactics to protect the skin by preventing UV radiation and reducing the amount of UV radiation to the skin. Nevertheless, deciphering the essential regulatory mechanisms may pave the way for therapeutic interventions against UV-induced skin disorders. Additionally, UV light is considered beneficial for specific skin-related conditions in medical UV therapy. Recent evidence indicates that the biological effects of UV exposure extend beyond the skin and include the treatment of inflammatory diseases, solid tumors and certain abnormal behaviors. This review mainly focuses on the effects of UV on the skin. Moreover, novel findings of the biological effects of UV in other organs and systems are also summarized. Nevertheless, the mechanisms through which UV affects the human organism remain to be fully elucidated to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of its biological effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyou Tang
- Medical College of Tibet University, Lasa 850000, China; Laboratory of Radiation Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Tingyi Yang
- Laboratory of Radiation Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Daojiang Yu
- Laboratory of Radiation Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, China National Nuclear Corporation 416 Hospital, Chengdu 610051, China
| | - Hai Xiong
- Medical College of Tibet University, Lasa 850000, China; West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Shuyu Zhang
- Medical College of Tibet University, Lasa 850000, China; Laboratory of Radiation Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, China National Nuclear Corporation 416 Hospital, Chengdu 610051, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Technology Medical Transformation (Mianyang Central Hospital), Mianyang 621099, China.
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4
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Vandelli V, Palandri L, Coratza P, Rizzi C, Ghinoi A, Righi E, Soldati M. Conditioning factors in the spreading of Covid-19 - Does geography matter? Heliyon 2024; 10:e25810. [PMID: 38356610 PMCID: PMC10865316 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e25810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
There is evidence in literature that the spread of COVID-19 can be influenced by various geographic factors, including territorial features, climate, population density, socioeconomic conditions, and mobility. The objective of the paper is to provide an updated literature review on geographical studies analysing the factors which influenced COVID-19 spreading. This literature review took into account not only the geographical aspects but also the COVID-19-related outcomes (infections and deaths) allowing to discern the potential influencing role of the geographic factors per type of outcome. A total of 112 scientific articles were selected, reviewed and categorized according to subject area, aim, country/region of study, considered geographic and COVID-19 variables, spatial and temporal units of analysis, methodologies, and main findings. Our literature review showed that territorial features may have played a role in determining the uneven geography of COVID-19; for instance, a certain agreement was found regarding the direct relationship between urbanization degree and COVID-19 infections. For what concerns climatic factors, temperature was the variable that correlated the best with COVID-19 infections. Together with climatic factors, socio-demographic ones were extensively taken into account. Most of the analysed studies agreed that population density and human mobility had a significant and direct relationship with COVID-19 infections and deaths. The analysis of the different approaches used to investigate the role of geographic factors in the spreading of the COVID-19 pandemic revealed that the significance/representativeness of the outputs is influenced by the scale considered due to the great spatial variability of geographic aspects. In fact, a more robust and significant association between geographic factors and COVID-19 was found by studies conducted at subnational or local scale rather than at country scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Vandelli
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Lucia Palandri
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Paola Coratza
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Cristiana Rizzi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Ghinoi
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Elena Righi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Mauro Soldati
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy
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5
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Houweling L, Maitland-Van der Zee AH, Holtjer JCS, Bazdar S, Vermeulen RCH, Downward GS, Bloemsma LD. The effect of the urban exposome on COVID-19 health outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 240:117351. [PMID: 37852458 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117351] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The global severity of SARS-CoV-2 illness has been associated with various urban characteristics, including exposure to ambient air pollutants. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to synthesize findings from ecological and non-ecological studies to investigate the impact of multiple urban-related features on a variety of COVID-19 health outcomes. METHODS On December 5, 2022, PubMed was searched to identify all types of observational studies that examined one or more urban exposome characteristics in relation to various COVID-19 health outcomes such as infection severity, the need for hospitalization, ICU admission, COVID pneumonia, and mortality. RESULTS A total of 38 non-ecological and 241 ecological studies were included in this review. Non-ecological studies highlighted the significant effects of population density, urbanization, and exposure to ambient air pollutants, particularly PM2.5. The meta-analyses revealed that a 1 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 was associated with a higher likelihood of COVID-19 hospitalization (pooled OR 1.08 (95% CI:1.02-1.14)) and death (pooled OR 1.06 (95% CI:1.03-1.09)). Ecological studies, in addition to confirming the findings of non-ecological studies, also indicated that higher exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), sulphur dioxide (SO2), and carbon monoxide (CO), as well as lower ambient temperature, humidity, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and less green and blue space exposure, were associated with increased COVID-19 morbidity and mortality. CONCLUSION This systematic review has identified several key vulnerability features related to urban areas in the context of the recent COVID-19 pandemic. The findings underscore the importance of improving policies related to urban exposures and implementing measures to protect individuals from these harmful environmental stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Houweling
- Department of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Dept. of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Anke-Hilse Maitland-Van der Zee
- Dept. of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Judith C S Holtjer
- Department of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Somayeh Bazdar
- Dept. of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Roel C H Vermeulen
- Department of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - George S Downward
- Department of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Lizan D Bloemsma
- Dept. of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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6
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Anderson G, Borooah S, Megaw R, Bagnaninchi P, Weller R, McLeod A, Dhillon B. UVR and RPE - The Good, the Bad and the degenerate Macula. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 100:101233. [PMID: 38135244 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2023.101233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Ultraviolet Radiation (UVR) has a well-established causative influence within the aetiology of conditions of the skin and the anterior segment of the eye. However, a grounded assessment of the role of UVR within conditions of the retina has been hampered by a historical lack of quantitative, and spectrally resolved, assessment of how UVR impacts upon the retina in terms congruent with contemporary theories of ageing. In this review, we sought to summarise the key findings of research investigating the connection between UVR exposure in retinal cytopathology while identifying necessary avenues for future research which can deliver a deeper understanding of UVR's place within the retinal risk landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham Anderson
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh BioQuarter, EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Shyamanga Borooah
- Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, Shiley Eye Institute, UC San Diego, CA, 92093-0946, USA
| | - Roly Megaw
- Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital, EH4 2XU, UK; Department of Clinical Ophthalmology, National Health Service Scotland, Edinburgh, EH3 9HA, UK
| | - Pierre Bagnaninchi
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh BioQuarter, EH16 4UU, UK; Robert O Curle Eyelab, Instute for Regeneration and Repair, Edinburgh BioQuarter, 4-5 Little France Drive, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Richard Weller
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh BioQuarter, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Andrew McLeod
- School of GeoSciences, University of Edinburgh, Crew Building, King's Buildings, EH9 3FF, UK
| | - Baljean Dhillon
- Department of Clinical Ophthalmology, National Health Service Scotland, Edinburgh, EH3 9HA, UK; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh BioQuarter, EH16 4SB, UK; Robert O Curle Eyelab, Instute for Regeneration and Repair, Edinburgh BioQuarter, 4-5 Little France Drive, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK.
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7
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Chen XE, Zhao C, Luo Y, Tang T, Chen W. Contamination of SARS-CoV-2 RNA on personal protective equipment and environmental surfaces in nonpatient entry area of a Fangcang shelter hospital. Am J Ind Med 2023; 66:805-812. [PMID: 37394558 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the extent of contamination of personal protective equipment (PPE) and surfaces by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in the nonpatient entry area of a Fangcang shelter hospital, the medical staff accommodation area, and the staff transport bus. METHODS We collected 816 samples from the nonpatient entry area and floors in a Fangcang shelter hospital, medical staff accommodation area, and scheduled bus, and the five major types of PPE used from April 13 to May 18, 2022. SARS-CoV-2 ribonucleic acid (RNA) was detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Overall, 22.2% of PPE samples were positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Boot covers and gowns were the most contaminated types of PPE. The positive PPE contamination rate of staff collecting respiratory specimens was significantly higher than that of the general-treatment staff group (35.8% vs. 12.2%) and cleaner group (35.8% vs. 26.4%), p < 0.01. In total, 27 of 265 (10.2%) environmental surface samples were positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA. The contamination-positive rates were 26.8% (22/82), 5.4% (4/74), and 0.9% (1/109) for contaminated, potentially contaminated, and clean zones, respectively. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was frequently detected on objects such as mobile phones, tables, computer keyboards and mice, and door handles. CONCLUSIONS SARS-CoV-2 RNA was widely distributed on high-touch surfaces and on PPE in the contaminated zone of the Fangcang shelter hospital, implying a potentially high infection risk for healthcare workers. Our findings emphasize the need to ensure adequate environmental cleaning, improve hand hygiene, and reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, prevention of self-contamination during PPE donning and doffing is complex and needs more research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-E Chen
- Department of Nosocomial Infection Control, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - ChenHao Zhao
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - YeTao Luo
- Department of Nosocomial Infection Control, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tang Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Nosocomial Infection Control, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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8
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Grant WB. Diet, Inflammation, and Infectious Diseases. Nutrients 2023; 15:2891. [PMID: 37447217 DOI: 10.3390/nu15132891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This Special Issue, "Diet, Inflammation, and Infectious Diseases", focuses on the potential of diet to modulate inflammation and infectious and chronic disease outcomes [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- William B Grant
- Sunlight, Nutrition, and Health Research Center, P.O. Box 641603, San Francisco, CA 94164-1603, USA
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9
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Cao M, He C, Gong M, Wu S, He J. The effects of vitamin D on all-cause mortality in different diseases: an evidence-map and umbrella review of 116 randomized controlled trials. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1132528. [PMID: 37426183 PMCID: PMC10325578 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1132528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To conduct a solid evidence by synthesizing meta-analyses and updated RCTs about the effects of vitamin D on all-cause mortality in different health conditions. Methods Data sources: Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, Google Scholar from inception until 25th April, 2022. Study selection: English-language, meta-analyses and updated RCTs assessing the relationships between vitamin D and all-cause mortality. Data synthesis: Information of study characteristics, mortality, supplementation were extracted, estimating with fixed-effects model. A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews, Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation, and funnel plot was used to assess risk of bias. Main outcomes: All-cause mortality, cancer mortality, cardiovascular disease mortality. Results In total of 27 meta-analyses and 19 updated RCTs were selected, with a total of 116 RCTs and 149, 865 participants. Evidence confirms that vitamin D reduces respiratory cancer mortality (RR, 0.56 [95%CI, 0.33 to 0.96]). All-cause mortality is decreased in patients with COVID-19 (RR, 0.54[95%CI, 0.33 to 0.88]) and liver diseases (RR, 0.64 [95%CI, 0.50 to 0.81]), especially in liver cirrhosis (RR, 0.63 [95%CI, 0.50 to 0.81]). As for other health conditions, such as the general health, chronic kidney disease, critical illness, cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal diseases, sepsis, type 2 diabetes, no significant association was found between vitamin D and all-cause mortality. Conclusions Vitamin D may reduce respiratory cancer mortality in respiratory cancer patients and all-cause mortality in COVID-19 and liver disorders' patients. No benefits showed in all-cause mortality after vitamin D intervention among other health conditions. The hypothesis of reduced mortality with vitamin D still requires exploration. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=252921, identifier: CRD42021252921.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyu Cao
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chunrong He
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Matthew Gong
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Song Wu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jinshen He
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
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10
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Grant WB, van Amerongen BM, Boucher BJ. Periodontal Disease and Other Adverse Health Outcomes Share Risk Factors, including Dietary Factors and Vitamin D Status. Nutrients 2023; 15:2787. [PMID: 37375691 DOI: 10.3390/nu15122787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
For nearly a century, researchers have associated periodontal disease (PD) with risks of other adverse health outcomes such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and respiratory diseases, as well as adverse pregnancy outcomes. Those findings have led to the hypothesis that PD causes those adverse health outcomes either by increasing systemic inflammation or by the action of periodontopathic bacteria. However, experiments largely failed to support that hypothesis. Instead, the association is casual, not causal, and is due to shared underlying modifiable risk factors, including smoking, diet, obesity, low levels of physical activity, and low vitamin D status. Diabetes mellitus is also considered a risk factor for PD, whereas red and processed meat are the most important dietary risk factors for diabetes. Because PD generally develops before other adverse health outcomes, a diagnosis of PD can alert patients that they could reduce the risk of adverse health outcomes with lifestyle changes. In addition, type 2 diabetes mellitus can often be reversed rapidly by adopting an anti-inflammatory, nonhyperinsulinemic diet that emphasizes healthful, whole plant-based foods. This review describes the evidence that proinflammatory and prohyperinsulinemia diets and low vitamin D status are important risk factors for PD and other adverse health outcomes. We also make recommendations regarding dietary patterns, food groups, and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations. Oral health professionals should routinely inform patients with PD that they could reduce their risk of severe PD as well as the risks of many other adverse health outcomes by making appropriate lifestyle changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- William B Grant
- Sunlight, Nutrition and Health Research Center, P.O. Box 641603, San Francisco, CA 94164-1603, USA
| | | | - Barbara J Boucher
- The Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK
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11
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Bernhard GH, Madronich S, Lucas RM, Byrne SN, Schikowski T, Neale RE. Linkages between COVID-19, solar UV radiation, and the Montreal Protocol. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2023; 22:991-1009. [PMID: 36995652 PMCID: PMC10062285 DOI: 10.1007/s43630-023-00373-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
There are several connections between coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), solar UV radiation, and the Montreal Protocol. Exposure to ambient solar UV radiation inactivates SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. An action spectrum describing the wavelength dependence of the inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 by UV and visible radiation has recently been published. In contrast to action spectra that have been assumed in the past for estimating the effect of UV radiation on SARS-CoV-2, the new action spectrum has a large sensitivity in the UV-A (315-400 nm) range. If this "UV-A tail" is correct, solar UV radiation could be much more efficient in inactivating the virus responsible for COVID-19 than previously thought. Furthermore, the sensitivity of inactivation rates to the total column ozone would be reduced because ozone absorbs only a small amount of UV-A radiation. Using solar simulators, the times for inactivating SARS-CoV-2 have been determined by several groups; however, many measurements are affected by poorly defined experimental setups. The most reliable data suggest that 90% of viral particles embedded in saliva are inactivated within ~ 7 min by solar radiation for a solar zenith angle (SZA) of 16.5° and within ~ 13 min for a SZA of 63.4°. Slightly longer inactivation times were found for aerosolised virus particles. These times can become considerably longer during cloudy conditions or if virus particles are shielded from solar radiation. Many publications have provided evidence of an inverse relationship between ambient solar UV radiation and the incidence or severity of COVID-19, but the reasons for these negative correlations have not been unambiguously identified and could also be explained by confounders, such as ambient temperature, humidity, visible radiation, daylength, temporal changes in risk and disease management, and the proximity of people to other people. Meta-analyses of observational studies indicate inverse associations between serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) concentration and the risk of SARS-CoV-2 positivity or severity of COVID-19, although the quality of these studies is largely low. Mendelian randomisation studies have not found statistically significant evidence of a causal effect of 25(OH)D concentration on COVID-19 susceptibility or severity, but a potential link between vitamin D status and disease severity cannot be excluded as some randomised trials suggest that vitamin D supplementation is beneficial for people admitted to a hospital. Several studies indicate significant positive associations between air pollution and COVID-19 incidence and fatality rates. Conversely, well-established cohort studies indicate no association between long-term exposure to air pollution and infection with SARS-CoV-2. By limiting increases in UV radiation, the Montreal Protocol has also suppressed the inactivation rates of pathogens exposed to UV radiation. However, there is insufficient evidence to conclude that the expected larger inactivation rates without the Montreal Protocol would have had tangible consequences on the progress of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- G H Bernhard
- Biospherical Instruments Inc., San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - S Madronich
- Atmospheric Chemistry Observations and Modeling Laboratory, National Center for Atmospheric Research, Boulder, USA
| | - R M Lucas
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - S N Byrne
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, School of Medical Sciences, Sydney, Australia
| | - T Schikowski
- Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - R E Neale
- Population Health Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia.
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
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12
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Bernhard GH, Bais AF, Aucamp PJ, Klekociuk AR, Liley JB, McKenzie RL. Stratospheric ozone, UV radiation, and climate interactions. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2023; 22:937-989. [PMID: 37083996 PMCID: PMC10120513 DOI: 10.1007/s43630-023-00371-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
This assessment provides a comprehensive update of the effects of changes in stratospheric ozone and other factors (aerosols, surface reflectivity, solar activity, and climate) on the intensity of ultraviolet (UV) radiation at the Earth's surface. The assessment is performed in the context of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer and its Amendments and Adjustments. Changes in UV radiation at low- and mid-latitudes (0-60°) during the last 25 years have generally been small (e.g., typically less than 4% per decade, increasing at some sites and decreasing at others) and were mostly driven by changes in cloud cover and atmospheric aerosol content, caused partly by climate change and partly by measures to control tropospheric pollution. Without the Montreal Protocol, erythemal (sunburning) UV irradiance at northern and southern latitudes of less than 50° would have increased by 10-20% between 1996 and 2020. For southern latitudes exceeding 50°, the UV Index (UVI) would have surged by between 25% (year-round at the southern tip of South America) and more than 100% (South Pole in spring). Variability of erythemal irradiance in Antarctica was very large during the last four years. In spring 2019, erythemal UV radiation was at the minimum of the historical (1991-2018) range at the South Pole, while near record-high values were observed in spring 2020, which were up to 80% above the historical mean. In the Arctic, some of the highest erythemal irradiances on record were measured in March and April 2020. For example in March 2020, the monthly average UVI over a site in the Canadian Arctic was up to 70% higher than the historical (2005-2019) average, often exceeding this mean by three standard deviations. Under the presumption that all countries will adhere to the Montreal Protocol in the future and that atmospheric aerosol concentrations remain constant, erythemal irradiance at mid-latitudes (30-60°) is projected to decrease between 2015 and 2090 by 2-5% in the north and by 4-6% in the south due to recovering ozone. Changes projected for the tropics are ≤ 3%. However, in industrial regions that are currently affected by air pollution, UV radiation will increase as measures to reduce air pollutants will gradually restore UV radiation intensities to those of a cleaner atmosphere. Since most substances controlled by the Montreal Protocol are also greenhouse gases, the phase-out of these substances may have avoided warming by 0.5-1.0 °C over mid-latitude regions of the continents, and by more than 1.0 °C in the Arctic; however, the uncertainty of these calculations is large. We also assess the effects of changes in stratospheric ozone on climate, focusing on the poleward shift of climate zones, and discuss the role of the small Antarctic ozone hole in 2019 on the devastating "Black Summer" fires in Australia. Additional topics include the assessment of advances in measuring and modeling of UV radiation; methods for determining personal UV exposure; the effect of solar radiation management (stratospheric aerosol injections) on UV radiation relevant for plants; and possible revisions to the vitamin D action spectrum, which describes the wavelength dependence of the synthesis of previtamin D3 in human skin upon exposure to UV radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- G H Bernhard
- Biospherical Instruments Inc, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - A F Bais
- Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics, Department of Physics, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - P J Aucamp
- Ptersa Environmental Consultants, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - A R Klekociuk
- Antarctic Climate Program, Australian Antarctic Division, Kingston, Australia
| | - J B Liley
- National Institute of Water & Atmospheric Research, Lauder, New Zealand
| | - R L McKenzie
- National Institute of Water & Atmospheric Research, Lauder, New Zealand
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13
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Romero-Ibarguengoitia ME, Gutiérrez-González D, Cantú-López C, Sanz-Sánchez MÁ, González-Cantú A. Effect of Vitamin D 3 Supplementation vs. Dietary-Hygienic Measures on SARS-CoV-2 Infection Rates in Hospital Workers with 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH)D3] Levels ≥20 ng/mL. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11020282. [PMID: 36838247 PMCID: PMC9960325 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11020282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: There is scant information on the effect of supplementation with vitamin D3 in SARS-CoV-2 infection cases when patient 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH)D3] levels are between 20-100 ng/mL. We aimed to evaluate the effect of supplementation with vitamin D3 vs. dietary-hygienic measures on the SARS-CoV-2 infection rate in participants with serum 25(OH)D3 levels ≥20 ng/mL. Methods: This study was quasi-experimental. We invited hospital workers with 25(OH)D3 levels between 20-100 ng/mL and no previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. They were randomized as follows: treatment options were a) vitamin D3 supplementation (52,000 IU monthly, G1) or b) dietary-hygienic measures (G2). We conducted a 3- to 6-month follow-up of SARS-CoV-2 infections. Participants with 25(OH)D3 levels <20 ng/mL were also analyzed. We divided these latter participants depending on whether they were supplemented (G3) or not (G4). Results: We analyzed 198 participants, with an average age of 44.4 (SD 9) years, and 130 (65.7%) were women. G1 had fewer cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection than G2 after a follow-up of 3- to 6-months (p < 0.05). There were no differences between G3 and G4 at the 3- and 6-month follow-up cutoff points (p > 0.05). Using a mixed effect Cox regression analysis in the 164 participants that completed six months of follow-up, vitamin D3 supplementation appeared to act as a protective factor against SARS-CoV-2 infection (HR 0.21, p = 0.008) in G1 and G2. None of the participants treated with the supplementation doses had serum 25(OH)D3 levels >100 ng/mL. Conclusions: Vitamin D3 supplementation in participants with 25(OH)D3 levels between 20-100 ng/mL have a lower rate of SARS-CoV-2 infection compared with the use of dietary-hygienic measures at six months follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Elena Romero-Ibarguengoitia
- Department of Research, Hospital Clínica Nova, San Nicolás de los Garza 66450, NL, Mexico
- Departamento de Ciencias Clínicas, Vicerrectoría de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Monterrey, San Pedro Garza García 66238, NL, Mexico
| | - Dalia Gutiérrez-González
- Department of Research, Hospital Clínica Nova, San Nicolás de los Garza 66450, NL, Mexico
- Departamento de Ciencias Clínicas, Vicerrectoría de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Monterrey, San Pedro Garza García 66238, NL, Mexico
| | - Carlos Cantú-López
- Department of Research, Hospital Clínica Nova, San Nicolás de los Garza 66450, NL, Mexico
- Departamento de Ciencias Clínicas, Vicerrectoría de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Monterrey, San Pedro Garza García 66238, NL, Mexico
| | - Miguel Ángel Sanz-Sánchez
- Departamento de Ciencias Clínicas, Vicerrectoría de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Monterrey, San Pedro Garza García 66238, NL, Mexico
- General Management, Hospital Clínica Nova, San Nicolás de los Garza 66450, NL, Mexico
| | - Arnulfo González-Cantú
- Departamento de Ciencias Clínicas, Vicerrectoría de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Monterrey, San Pedro Garza García 66238, NL, Mexico
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Clínica Nova, Av. del Bosque 139, Cuauhtémoc, San Nicolás de los Garza 66450, NL, Mexico
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +52-81-8865-5656
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14
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Subramanian S, Griffin G, Hewison M, Hopkin J, Kenny RA, Laird E, Quinton R, Thickett D, Rhodes JM. Vitamin D and COVID-19-Revisited. J Intern Med 2022; 292:604-626. [PMID: 35798564 PMCID: PMC9349414 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin D, when activated to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, is a steroid hormone that induces responses in several hundred genes, including many involved in immune responses to infection. Without supplementation, people living in temperate zones commonly become deficient in the precursor form of vitamin D, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, during winter, as do people who receive less sunlight exposure or those with darker skin pigmentation. Studies performed pre-COVID-19 have shown significant but modest reduction in upper respiratory infections in people receiving regular daily vitamin D supplementation. Vitamin D deficiency, like the risk of severe COVID-19, is linked with darker skin colour and also with obesity. Greater risk from COVID-19 has been associated with reduced ultraviolet exposure. Various studies have examined serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, either historical or current, in patients with COVID-19. The results of these studies have varied but the majority have shown an association between vitamin D deficiency and increased risk of COVID-19 illness or severity. Interventional studies of vitamin D supplementation have so far been inconclusive. Trial protocols commonly allow control groups to receive low-dose supplementation that may be adequate for many. The effects of vitamin D supplementation on disease severity in patients with existing COVID-19 are further complicated by the frequent use of large bolus dose vitamin D to achieve rapid effects, even though this approach has been shown to be ineffective in other settings. As the pandemic passes into its third year, a substantial role of vitamin D deficiency in determining the risk from COVID-19 remains possible but unproven.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sreedhar Subramanian
- Department of GastroenterologyCambridge University Hospitals Foundation TrustCambridgeUK
| | - George Griffin
- Department of Infectious Diseases and MedicineSt George's UniversityLondonUK
| | - Martin Hewison
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems ResearchUniversity of BirminghamBirminghamUK
| | - Julian Hopkin
- College of MedicineInstitute of Life ScienceSwansea UniversitySwanseaUK
| | - Rose Anne Kenny
- Department of Medical GerontologySchool of MedicineTrinity College DublinDublinIreland
| | - Eamon Laird
- The Irish Longitudinal Study on AgeingSchool of MedicineTrinity College DublinDublinIreland
| | - Richard Quinton
- Department of EndocrinologyTranslational and Clinical Research InstituteNewcastle University Faculty of Medical SciencesNewcastle upon TyneUK
| | - David Thickett
- Institute of Inflammation and AgeingUniversity of Birmingham College of Medical and Dental SciencesBirminghamUK
| | - Jonathan M. Rhodes
- Molecular Physiology and Cell SignallingInstitute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative BiologyUniversity of LiverpoolLiverpoolUK
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15
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Yang W, Ge M, Wang Y, Pang X, Wang C. Spatial distribution differences of 25-hydroxyvitamin D in healthy elderly people under the influence of geographical environmental factors. Sci Rep 2022; 12:12781. [PMID: 35896722 PMCID: PMC9326152 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17198-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The main targets of this were to screen the factors that may influence the distribution of 25-hydroxyvitamin D[25(OH)D] reference value in healthy elderly people in China, and further explored the geographical distribution differences of 25(OH)D reference value in China. In this study, we collected the 25(OH)D of 25,470 healthy elderly from 58 cities in China to analyze the correlation between 25(OH)D and 22 geography secondary indexes through spearman regression analysis. Six indexes with significant correlation were extracted, and a ridge regression model was built, and the country’s urban healthy elderly’25(OH)D reference value was predicted. By using the disjunctive Kriging method, we obtained the geographical distribution of 25(OH)D reference values for healthy elderly people in China. The reference value of 25(OH)D for healthy elderly in China was significantly correlated with the 6 secondary indexes, namely, latitude (°), annual temperature range (°C), annual sunshine hours (h), annual mean temperature (°C), annual mean relative humidity (%), and annual precipitation (mm). The geographical distribution of 25(OH)D values of healthy elderly in China showed a trend of being higher in South China and lower in North China, and higher in coastal areas and lower in inland areas. This study lays a foundation for further research on the mechanism of different influencing factors on the reference value of 25(OH)D index. A ridge regression model composed of significant influencing factors has been established to provide the basis for formulating reference criteria for the treatment factors of the vitamin D deficiency and prognostic factors of the COVID-19 using 25(OH)D reference value in different regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjie Yang
- Institute of Health Geography, School of Geographical Sciences and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710119, Shaanxi, China
| | - Miao Ge
- Institute of Health Geography, School of Geographical Sciences and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710119, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Yabo Wang
- Institute of Health Geography, School of Geographical Sciences and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710119, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xinrui Pang
- Institute of Health Geography, School of Geographical Sciences and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710119, Shaanxi, China
| | - Congxia Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710119, Shaanxi, China
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16
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Tateo F, Fiorino S, Peruzzo L, Zippi M, De Biase D, Lari F, Melucci D. Effects of environmental parameters and their interactions on the spreading of SARS-CoV-2 in North Italy under different social restrictions. A new approach based on multivariate analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 210:112921. [PMID: 35150709 PMCID: PMC8828377 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.112921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In 2020 North Italy suffered the SARS-CoV-2-related pandemic with a high number of deaths and hospitalization. The effect of atmospheric parameters on the amount of hospital admissions (temperature, solar radiation, particulate matter, relative humidity and wind speed) is studied through about 8 months (May-December). Two periods are considered depending on different conditions: a) low incidence of COVID-19 and very few regulations concerning personal mobility and protection ("free/summer period"); b) increasing incidence of disease, social restrictions and use of personal protections ("confined/autumn period"). The "hospitalized people in medical area wards/100000 residents" was used as a reliable measure of COVID-19 spreading and load on the sanitary system. We developed a chemometric approach (multiple linear regression analysis) using the daily incidence of hospitalizations as a function of the single independent variables and of their products (interactions). Eight administrative domains were considered (altogether 26 million inhabitants) to account for relatively homogeneous territorial and social conditions. The obtained models very significantly match the daily variation of hospitalizations, during the two periods. Under the confined/autumn period, the effect of non-pharmacologic measures (social distances, personal protection, etc.) possibly attenuates the virus diffusion despite environmental factors. On the contrary, in the free/summer conditions the effects of atmospheric parameters are very significant through all the areas. Particulate matter matches the growth of hospitalizations in areas with low chronic particulate pollution. Fewer hospitalizations strongly correspond to higher temperature and solar radiation. Relative humidity plays the same role, but with a lesser extent. The interaction between solar radiation and high temperature is also highly significant and represents surprising evidence. The solar radiation alone and combined with high temperature exert an anti-SARS-CoV-2 effect, via both the direct inactivation of virions and the stimulation of vitamin D synthesis, improving immune system function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Tateo
- Institute of Geosciences and Earth Resources (IGG), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Via G. Gradenigo, 6, 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital, Azienda USL, Via Benni, 44, 40054, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Peruzzo
- Institute of Geosciences and Earth Resources (IGG), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Via G. Gradenigo, 6, 35131, Padova, Italy.
| | - Maddalena Zippi
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Via dei Monti Tiburtini 385, 00157, Rome, Italy
| | - Dario De Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Federico Lari
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital, Azienda USL, Via Benni, 44, 40054, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dora Melucci
- Department of Chemistry Ciamician, University of Bologna, Via Selmi, 2, 40126, Bologna, Italy
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17
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An Exploration of How Solar Radiation Affects the Seasonal Variation of Human Mortality Rates and the Seasonal Variation in Some Other Common Disorders. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14122519. [PMID: 35745248 PMCID: PMC9228654 DOI: 10.3390/nu14122519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Many diseases have large seasonal variations in which winter overall mortality rates are about 25% higher than in summer in mid-latitude countries, with cardiovascular diseases and respiratory infections and conditions accounting for most of the variation. Cancers, by contrast, do not usually have pronounced seasonal variations in incidence or mortality rates. This narrative review examines the epidemiological evidence for seasonal variations in blood pressure, cardiovascular disease rates and respiratory viral infections in relation to atmospheric temperature and humidity, and solar UV exposure through vitamin D production and increased blood concentrations of nitric oxide. However, additional mechanisms most likely exist by which solar radiation reduces the risk of seasonally varying diseases. Some studies have been reported with respect to temperature without considering solar UV doses, although studies regarding solar UV doses, such as for respiratory infections, often consider whether temperature can affect the findings. More research is indicated to evaluate the relative effects of temperature and sun exposure on the seasonality of mortality rates for several diseases. Since solar ultraviolet-B (UVB) doses decrease to vanishingly small values at higher latitudes in winter, the use of safe UVB lamps for indoor use in winter may warrant consideration.
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18
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McHugh J, Alexander M, Kudesia R, Krant J, Comander A, Tollefson M, Geyer C. Living Your Best Life: Lifestyle Medicine for All Women. Am J Lifestyle Med 2022; 16:577-588. [PMID: 36072687 PMCID: PMC9442465 DOI: 10.1177/15598276221087677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In an era of ever-increasing healthcare expenditures, yet simultaneously worsening outcomes, many of our patients choose between traditional medical care or often unproven alternative therapies. While the recognition of lifestyle change in addressing cardiovascular and metabolic disease grows, there is less understanding of the impact of lifestyle change on issues facing women every day. Millions of women around the globe struggle with infertility, cancer, sexual dysfunction, and dermatologic needs. Yet, research on the benefits of lifestyle change on these conditions is scarce, and gaps exist both in our understanding of evidence-based approaches to address these issues, as well as adequate provider education when evidence exists. The Women’s Health Member Interest Group convened medical experts in these areas that affect women’s lives to provide insights and meaningful education applicable not only for our patients, but also in our own lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- John McHugh
- USC Keck School of Medicine, Corona del Mar, CA, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- CCRM Fertility Houston & Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- SUNY Downstate Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Megan Alexander
- USC Keck School of Medicine, Corona del Mar, CA, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- CCRM Fertility Houston & Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- SUNY Downstate Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rashmi Kudesia
- USC Keck School of Medicine, Corona del Mar, CA, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- CCRM Fertility Houston & Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- SUNY Downstate Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jessica Krant
- USC Keck School of Medicine, Corona del Mar, CA, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- CCRM Fertility Houston & Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- SUNY Downstate Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amy Comander
- USC Keck School of Medicine, Corona del Mar, CA, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- CCRM Fertility Houston & Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- SUNY Downstate Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michelle Tollefson
- USC Keck School of Medicine, Corona del Mar, CA, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- CCRM Fertility Houston & Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- SUNY Downstate Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Cynthia Geyer
- USC Keck School of Medicine, Corona del Mar, CA, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- CCRM Fertility Houston & Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- SUNY Downstate Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA
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19
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Vitamin D: A Role Also in Long COVID-19? Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14081625. [PMID: 35458189 PMCID: PMC9028162 DOI: 10.3390/nu14081625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has quickly become a global pandemic. Reports from different parts of the world indicate that a significant proportion of people who have recovered from COVID-19 are suffering from various health problems collectively referred to as “long COVID-19”. Common symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, cough, joint pain, chest pain, muscle aches, headaches, and so on. Vitamin D is an immunomodulatory hormone with proven efficacy against various upper respiratory tract infections. Vitamin D can inhibit hyperinflammatory reactions and accelerate the healing process in the affected areas, especially in lung tissue. Moreover, vitamin D deficiency has been associated with the severity and mortality of COVID-19 cases, with a high prevalence of hypovitaminosis D found in patients with COVID-19 and acute respiratory failure. Thus, there are promising reasons to promote research into the effects of vitamin D supplementation in COVID-19 patients. However, no studies to date have found that vitamin D affects post-COVID-19 symptoms or biomarkers. Based on this scenario, this review aims to provide an up-to-date overview of the potential role of vitamin D in long COVID-19 and of the current literature on this topic.
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20
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Grant WB. Putative roles of solar UVA and UVB exposure and vitamin D supplementation in reducing risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 severity. Am J Clin Nutr 2022; 115:987-988. [PMID: 35178551 PMCID: PMC9863054 DOI: 10.1093/ajcn/nqab437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
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21
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Ma W, Nguyen LH, Yue Y, Ding M, Drew DA, Wang K, Merino J, Rich-Edwards JW, Sun Q, Camargo CA, Giovannucci E, Willett W, Manson JE, Song M, Bhupathiraju SN, Chan AT. Associations between predicted vitamin D status, vitamin D intake, and risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) severity. Am J Clin Nutr 2022; 115:1123-1133. [PMID: 34864844 PMCID: PMC8690242 DOI: 10.1093/ajcn/nqab389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vitamin D may have a role in immune responses to viral infections. However, data on the association between vitamin D and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) severity have been limited and inconsistent. OBJECTIVE We examined the associations of predicted vitamin D status and intake with risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 severity. METHODS We used data from periodic surveys (May 2020 to March 2021) within the Nurses' Health Study II. Among 39,315 participants, 1768 reported a positive test for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Usual vitamin D intake from foods and supplements were measured using a semiquantitative, pre-pandemic food-frequency questionnaire in 2015. Predicted 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentration were calculated based on a previously validated model including dietary and supplementary vitamin D intake, UV-B, and other behavioral predictors of vitamin D status. RESULTS Higher predicted 25(OH)D concentrations, but not vitamin D intake, were associated with a lower risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Comparing participants in the highest quintile of predicted 25(OH)D concentrations with the lowest, the multivariable-adjusted OR was 0.76 (95% CI: 0.58, 0.99; P-trend = 0.04). Participants in the highest quartile of UV-B (OR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.66, 0.87; P-trend = 0.002) and UV-A (OR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.66, 0.88; P-trend < 0.001) also had a lower risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection compared with the lowest. High intake of vitamin D from supplements (≥400 IU/d) was associated with a lower risk of hospitalization (OR: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.29, 0.91; P-trend = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS Our study provides suggestive evidence on the association between higher predicted circulating 25(OH)D concentrations and a lower risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Greater intake of vitamin D supplements was associated with a lower risk of hospitalization. Our data also support an association between exposure to UV-B or UV-A, independently of vitamin D and SARS-CoV-2 infection, so results for predicted 25(OH)D need to be interpreted cautiously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjie Ma
- Clinical and Translational Epidemiology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Long H Nguyen
- Clinical and Translational Epidemiology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yiyang Yue
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ming Ding
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David A Drew
- Clinical and Translational Epidemiology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jordi Merino
- Diabetes Unit and Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA,Program in Medical and Population Genetics, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Janet W Rich-Edwards
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Division of Women’s Health, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Qi Sun
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Division of Women’s Health, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Carlos A Camargo
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Emergency Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Edward Giovannucci
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Walter Willett
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - JoAnn E Manson
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mingyang Song
- Clinical and Translational Epidemiology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shilpa N Bhupathiraju
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrew T Chan
- Clinical and Translational Epidemiology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Address correspondence to ATC (E-mail: )
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22
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The Role of Vitamin D in Supporting Health in the COVID-19 Era. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073621. [PMID: 35408981 PMCID: PMC8998275 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The genomic activity of vitamin D is associated with metabolic effects, and the hormone has a strong impact on several physiological functions and, therefore, on health. Among its renowned functions, vitamin D is an immunomodulator and a molecule with an anti-inflammatory effect, and, recently, it has been much studied in relation to its response against viral infections, especially against COVID-19. This review aims to take stock of the correlation studies between vitamin D deficiency and increased risks of severe COVID-19 disease and, similarly, between vitamin D deficiency and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Based on this evidence, supplementation with vitamin D has been tested in clinical trials, and the results are discussed. Finally, this study includes a biochemical analysis on the effects of vitamin D in the body's defense mechanisms against viral infection. In particular, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions are considered in relation to energy metabolism, and the potential, beneficial effect of vitamin D in COVID-19 is described, with discussion of its influence on different biochemical pathways. The proposed, broader view of vitamin D activity could support a better-integrated approach in supplementation strategies against severe COVID-19, which could be valuable in a near future of living with an infection becoming endemic.
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23
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Wu SE, Chen WL. Moderate Sun Exposure Is the Complementor in Insufficient Vitamin D Consumers. Front Nutr 2022; 9:832659. [PMID: 35350415 PMCID: PMC8957913 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.832659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Vitamin (Vit) D plays a vital role in human health, and the prevalence of Vit D deficiency worldwide has been a rising concern. This study investigates the serum 25-hydroxy-Vit D [25(OH)D] status in healthy US civilians and identifies how the two main sources, sun exposure and dietary Vit D intake, determine the final 25(OH)D levels in individuals. Methods A total of 2,360 of participants from The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2009–2014 were analyzed. We divided the levels of sun exposure and dietary Vit D intake of all subjects into 10 strata and gave a score ranging from 1 to 10 points, respectively. Scores 1–5 in sun exposure and dietary intake were considered as relatively low exposure groups, whereas scores 6–10 were considered as relatively high exposure groups. Serum Vit D inadequacy was defined as <50 nmol/L. Linear and logistic regression analyses were used to examine the associations between sources of Vit D and serum 25(OH)D levels. Results In relatively low Vit D intake groups (Vit D intake score 1–5), relatively high sun exposure (sun exposure score >5) resulted in higher serum 25(OH)D levels (average 57 nmol/L) compared with relatively low sun exposure (sun exposure score <5) (average 50 nmol/L), whereas this difference became negligible in high intake groups (Vit D intake score 6–10). Moreover, the greatest slope occurred in the low Vit D intake curve (decile 3 of Vit D intake), which shows increased sun exposure time causing the greatest degree of change in serum 25(OH)D level in this group. Conclusion Sun exposure can significantly make up for deficiencies in subjects who consume insufficient dietary Vit D. Compared with the extra cost and time for building habits of Vit D supplementation, moderate sun exposure appears to be a simple and costless means for the public to start in daily practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shou-En Wu
- Department of Dermatology, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei City, Taiwan
- Division of Family Medicine, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei City, Taiwan
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Liang Chen
- Division of Family Medicine, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei City, Taiwan
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei City, Taiwan
- Department of Biochemistry, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei City, Taiwan
- *Correspondence: Wei-Liang Chen,
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24
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Barnes PW, Robson TM, Neale PJ, Williamson CE, Zepp RG, Madronich S, Wilson SR, Andrady AL, Heikkilä AM, Bernhard GH, Bais AF, Neale RE, Bornman JF, Jansen MAK, Klekociuk AR, Martinez-Abaigar J, Robinson SA, Wang QW, Banaszak AT, Häder DP, Hylander S, Rose KC, Wängberg SÅ, Foereid B, Hou WC, Ossola R, Paul ND, Ukpebor JE, Andersen MPS, Longstreth J, Schikowski T, Solomon KR, Sulzberger B, Bruckman LS, Pandey KK, White CC, Zhu L, Zhu M, Aucamp PJ, Liley JB, McKenzie RL, Berwick M, Byrne SN, Hollestein LM, Lucas RM, Olsen CM, Rhodes LE, Yazar S, Young AR. Environmental effects of stratospheric ozone depletion, UV radiation, and interactions with climate change: UNEP Environmental Effects Assessment Panel, Update 2021. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2022; 21:275-301. [PMID: 35191005 PMCID: PMC8860140 DOI: 10.1007/s43630-022-00176-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
The Environmental Effects Assessment Panel of the Montreal Protocol under the United Nations Environment Programme evaluates effects on the environment and human health that arise from changes in the stratospheric ozone layer and concomitant variations in ultraviolet (UV) radiation at the Earth’s surface. The current update is based on scientific advances that have accumulated since our last assessment (Photochem and Photobiol Sci 20(1):1–67, 2021). We also discuss how climate change affects stratospheric ozone depletion and ultraviolet radiation, and how stratospheric ozone depletion affects climate change. The resulting interlinking effects of stratospheric ozone depletion, UV radiation, and climate change are assessed in terms of air quality, carbon sinks, ecosystems, human health, and natural and synthetic materials. We further highlight potential impacts on the biosphere from extreme climate events that are occurring with increasing frequency as a consequence of climate change. These and other interactive effects are examined with respect to the benefits that the Montreal Protocol and its Amendments are providing to life on Earth by controlling the production of various substances that contribute to both stratospheric ozone depletion and climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- P W Barnes
- Biological Sciences and Environment Program, Loyola University New Orleans, New Orleans, USA
| | - T M Robson
- Organismal and Evolutionary Biology (OEB), Viikki Plant Science Centre (ViPS), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - P J Neale
- Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Edgewater, USA
| | | | - R G Zepp
- ORD/CEMM, US Environmental Protection Agency, Athens, GA, USA
| | - S Madronich
- Atmospheric Chemistry Observations and Modeling Laboratory, National Center for Atmospheric Research, Boulder, USA
| | - S R Wilson
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - A L Andrady
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Apex, USA
| | - A M Heikkilä
- Finnish Meteorological Institute, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - A F Bais
- Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics, Department of Physics, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - R E Neale
- Population Health Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - J F Bornman
- Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia.
| | | | - A R Klekociuk
- Antarctic Climate Program, Australian Antarctic Division, Kingston, Australia
| | - J Martinez-Abaigar
- Faculty of Science and Technology, University of La Rioja, La Rioja, Logroño, Spain
| | - S A Robinson
- Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future, Global Challenges Program and School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Q-W Wang
- Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shenyang, China
| | - A T Banaszak
- Unidad Académica De Sistemas Arrecifales, Universidad Nacional Autónoma De México, Puerto Morelos, Mexico
| | - D-P Häder
- Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander University, Möhrendorf, Germany
| | - S Hylander
- Centre for Ecology and Evolution in Microbial Model Systems-EEMiS, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden.
| | - K C Rose
- Biological Sciences, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, USA
| | - S-Å Wängberg
- Marine Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - B Foereid
- Environment and Natural Resources, Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research, Ås, Norway
| | - W-C Hou
- Environmental Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - R Ossola
- Environmental System Science (D-USYS), ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - N D Paul
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - J E Ukpebor
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Physical Sciences, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
| | - M P S Andersen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, California State University, Northridge, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - J Longstreth
- The Institute for Global Risk Research, LLC, Bethesda, USA
| | - T Schikowski
- Research Group of Environmental Epidemiology, Leibniz Institute of Environmental Medicine, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - K R Solomon
- Centre for Toxicology, School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada
| | - B Sulzberger
- Academic Guest, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, 8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - L S Bruckman
- Materials Science and Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, USA
| | - K K Pandey
- Wood Processing Division, Institute of Wood Science and Technology, Bangalore, India
| | - C C White
- Polymer Science and Materials Chemistry (PSMC), Exponent, Bethesda, USA
| | - L Zhu
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, China
| | - M Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Donghua University, Shanghai, China
| | - P J Aucamp
- Ptersa Environmental Consultants, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - J B Liley
- National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, Alexandra, New Zealand
| | - R L McKenzie
- National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, Alexandra, New Zealand
| | - M Berwick
- Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, USA
| | - S N Byrne
- Applied Medical Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - L M Hollestein
- Department of Dermatology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R M Lucas
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - C M Olsen
- Population Health Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - L E Rhodes
- Photobiology Unit, Dermatology Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - S Yazar
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - A R Young
- St John's Institute of Dermatology, King's College London (KCL), London, UK
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25
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Grant WB, Al Anouti F, Boucher BJ, Dursun E, Gezen-Ak D, Jude EB, Karonova T, Pludowski P. A Narrative Review of the Evidence for Variations in Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Concentration Thresholds for Optimal Health. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14030639. [PMID: 35276999 PMCID: PMC8838864 DOI: 10.3390/nu14030639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin D3 has many important health benefits. Unfortunately, these benefits are not widely known among health care personnel and the general public. As a result, most of the world’s population has serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations far below optimal values. This narrative review examines the evidence for the major causes of death including cardiovascular disease, hypertension, cancer, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and COVID-19 with regard to sub-optimal 25(OH)D concentrations. Evidence for the beneficial effects comes from a variety of approaches including ecological and observational studies, studies of mechanisms, and Mendelian randomization studies. Although randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are generally considered the strongest form of evidence for pharmaceutical drugs, the study designs and the conduct of RCTs performed for vitamin D have mostly been flawed for the following reasons: they have been based on vitamin D dose rather than on baseline and achieved 25(OH)D concentrations; they have involved participants with 25(OH)D concentrations above the population mean; they have given low vitamin D doses; and they have permitted other sources of vitamin D. Thus, the strongest evidence generally comes from the other types of studies. The general finding is that optimal 25(OH)D concentrations to support health and wellbeing are above 30 ng/mL (75 nmol/L) for cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality rate, whereas the thresholds for several other outcomes appear to range up to 40 or 50 ng/mL. The most efficient way to achieve these concentrations is through vitamin D supplementation. Although additional studies are warranted, raising serum 25(OH)D concentrations to optimal concentrations will result in a significant reduction in preventable illness and death.
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Affiliation(s)
- William B. Grant
- Sunlight, Nutrition, and Health Research Center, P.O. Box 641603, San Francisco, CA 94164-1603, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-415-409-1980
| | - Fatme Al Anouti
- Department of Health Sciences, College of Natural and Health Sciences, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi 144534, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Barbara J. Boucher
- The Blizard Institute, Barts & The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E12AT, UK;
| | - Erdinç Dursun
- Department of Neuroscience, Institute of Neurological Sciences, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul 34098, Turkey; (E.D.); (D.G.-A.)
| | - Duygu Gezen-Ak
- Department of Neuroscience, Institute of Neurological Sciences, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul 34098, Turkey; (E.D.); (D.G.-A.)
| | - Edward B. Jude
- Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, Fountain Street, Ashton-under-Lyne OL6 9RW, UK;
- The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
- Manchester Metropolitan University, All Saints Building, Manchester M15 6BH, UK
| | - Tatiana Karonova
- Clinical Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Endocrinology, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, 194021 Saint-Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Pawel Pludowski
- Department of Biochemistry, Radioimmunology and Experimental Medicine, The Children’s Memorial Health Institute, 04730 Warsaw, Poland;
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26
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Yan X, Wang Z, Wang X, Zhang X, Wang L, Lu Z, Jia Z. Association between human coronaviruses' epidemic and environmental factors on a global scale. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:14333-14347. [PMID: 34609683 PMCID: PMC8490851 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-16500-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Environmental factors could influence the epidemic of virus in human; however, the association remains intricate, and the evidence is still not clear in human coronaviruses (HCoVs). We aimed to explore and compare the associations between HCoVs' epidemic and environmental factors globally. Four common HCoVs' data were collected by a systematic literature review, and data of MERS, SARS, and COVID-19 were collected from the World Health Organization's reports. Monthly positive rates of common HCoVs and incidence rates of MERS, SARS, and COVID-19 were calculated. Geographical coordinates were used to link virus data and environmental data. Generalized additive models (GAMs) were used to quantitatively estimate the association of environmental factors with HCoVs' epidemic. We found that there are wide associations between HCoVs and environmental factors on a global scale, and some of the associations were nonlinear. In addition, COVID-19 has the most similarities in associations' direction with common HCoVs, especially for HCoV-HKU1 in four environmental factors including the significantly negative associations with average temperature, precipitation, vegetation coverage (p<0.05), and the U-shaped association with temperature range. This study strengthened the relevant research evidences and provided significant insights into the epidemic rules of HCoVs in general. The similarities between COVID-19 and common HCoVs indicated that it is critically important to strengthen surveillance on common HCoVs and pay more attention to environmental factors' role in surveillance and early warning of HCoVs' epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Yan
- School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zekun Wang
- School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xuechun Wang
- School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xiangyu Zhang
- School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Lianhao Wang
- School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zuhong Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China
| | - Zhongwei Jia
- School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Center for Intelligent Public Health, Institute for Artificial Intelligence, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Center for Drug Abuse Control and Prevention, National Institute of Health Data Science, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
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27
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Tapia-Muñoz T, González-Santa Cruz A, Clarke H, Morris W, Palmeiro-Silva Y, Allel K. COVID-19 attributed mortality and ambient temperature: a global ecological study using a two-stage regression model. Pathog Glob Health 2021; 116:319-329. [PMID: 34842049 PMCID: PMC9248943 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2021.2007336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A negative correlation between ambient temperature and COVID-19 mortality has been observed. However, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has reinforced the importance of government interventions and warned countries against relaxing control measures due to warmer temperatures. Further understanding of this relationship is needed to help plan vaccination campaigns opportunely. Using a two-stage regression model, we conducted cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses to evaluate the association between monthly ambient temperature lagged by one month with the COVID-19 number of deaths and the probability of high-level of COVID-19 mortality in 150 countries during time t = 60, 90, and 120 days since the onset. First, we computed a log-linear regression to predict the pre-COVID-19 respiratory disease mortality to homogenize the baseline disease burden within countries. Second, we employed negative binomial and logistic regressions to analyze the linkage between the ambient temperature and our outcomes, adjusting by pre-COVID-19 respiratory disease mortality rate, among other factors. The increase of one Celsius degree in ambient temperature decreases the incidence of COVID-19 deaths (IRR = 0.93; SE: 0.026, p-value<0.001) and the probability of high-level COVID-19 mortality (OR = 0.96; SE: 0.019; p-value<0.001) over time. High-income countries from the northern hemisphere had lower temperatures and were most affected by pre-COVID respiratory disease mortality and COVID-19 mortality. This study provides a global perspective corroborating the negative association between COVID-19 mortality and ambient temperature. Our longitudinal findings support the statement made by the WMO. Effective, opportune, and sustained reaction from countries can help capitalize on higher temperatures’ protective role including the timely rollout of vaccination campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thamara Tapia-Muñoz
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Harrison Clarke
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Walter Morris
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Kasim Allel
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
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28
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Vinceti M, Filippini T, Rothman KJ, Di Federico S, Orsini N. The association between first and second wave COVID-19 mortality in Italy. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:2069. [PMID: 34763690 PMCID: PMC8582237 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-12126-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The relation between the magnitude of successive waves of the COVID-19 outbreak within the same communities could be useful in predicting the scope of new outbreaks. Methods We investigated the extent to which COVID-19 mortality in Italy during the second wave was related to first wave mortality within the same provinces. We compared data on province-specific COVID-19 2020 mortality in two time periods, corresponding to the first wave (February 24–June 30, 2020) and to the second wave (September 1–December 31, 2020), using cubic spline regression. Results For provinces with the lowest crude mortality rate in the first wave (February–June), i.e. < 22 cases/100,000/month, mortality in the second wave (September–December) was positively associated with mortality during the first wave. In provinces with mortality greater than 22/100,000/month during the first wave, higher mortality in the first wave was associated with a lower second wave mortality. Results were similar when the analysis was censored at October 2020, before the implementation of region-specific measures against the outbreak. Neither vaccination nor variant spread had any role during the study period. Conclusions These findings indicate that provinces with the most severe initial COVID-19 outbreaks, as assessed through mortality data, faced milder second waves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Vinceti
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Section of Public Health, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy. .,Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, US.
| | - Tommaso Filippini
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Section of Public Health, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, US.,RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, Raleigh, NC, US
| | - Silvia Di Federico
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Section of Public Health, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Nicola Orsini
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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29
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Bakaloudi DR, Chourdakis M. A critical update on the role of mild and serious vitamin D deficiency prevalence and the COVID-19 epidemic in Europe. Nutrition 2021; 93:111441. [PMID: 34492624 PMCID: PMC8321689 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2021.111441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has emerged as a pandemic, affecting nearly 180 million people worldwide as of June 22, 2021. Previous studies have examined the association between the mean vitamin D (Vit D) concentration of each country and COVID-19 infection and mortality rate in European countries. The aim of the present study was to critically evaluate the relationship between prevalence of mild and severe Vit D deficiency in each country and COVID-19 infection, recovery, and mortality using updated data and a different methodological approach. Methods Information on Vit D concentration or deficiency for each country was retrieved through a literature search. COVID-19 infections and mortalities per million people and total recoveries, as of June 22, 2021, were obtained. The associations between Vit D deficiency and COVID-19 infection, recovery, and mortality were explored using correlation coefficients and scatterplots. Results Non-significant correlations were observed between both number of COVID-19 infections (r = 0.363, P = 0.116) and number of recoveries (r = 0.388, P = 0.091) and the prevalence of mild Vit D deficiency (<50 nmol/L). Similarly, non-significant correlations were observed between both infections (r = 0.215, P = 0.392) and recoveries (r = 0.242, P = 0.332) and the prevalence of severe Vit D deficiency (<30 nmol/L). Significant correlations were found between COVID-19 mortality and prevalence of both mild Vit D deficiency (r = 0.634, P = 0.003) and severe Vit D deficiency (r = 0.538, P = 0.021). Conclusions The prevalence of neither mild nor severe Vit D deficiency was associated with the number of COVID-19 infections in European countries. Thus, it is an important parameter to consider when implementing preventive measures to face COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitra Rafailia Bakaloudi
- Laboratory of Hygiene, Social & Preventive Medicine and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University Campus, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Michail Chourdakis
- Laboratory of Hygiene, Social & Preventive Medicine and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University Campus, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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30
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Nicastro F, Sironi G, Antonello E, Bianco A, Biasin M, Brucato JR, Ermolli I, Pareschi G, Salvati M, Tozzi P, Trabattoni D, Clerici M. Solar UV-B/A radiation is highly effective in inactivating SARS-CoV-2. Sci Rep 2021; 11:14805. [PMID: 34285313 PMCID: PMC8292397 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-94417-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Solar UV-C photons do not reach Earth's surface, but are known to be endowed with germicidal properties that are also effective on viruses. The effect of softer UV-B and UV-A photons, which copiously reach the Earth's surface, on viruses are instead little studied, particularly on single-stranded RNA viruses. Here we combine our measurements of the action spectrum of Covid-19 in response to UV light, Solar irradiation measurements on Earth during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemics, worldwide recorded Covid-19 mortality data and our "Solar-Pump" diffusive model of epidemics to show that (a) UV-B/A photons have a powerful virucidal effect on the single-stranded RNA virus Covid-19 and that (b) the Solar radiation that reaches temperate regions of the Earth at noon during summers, is sufficient to inactivate 63% of virions in open-space concentrations (1.5 × 103 TCID50/mL, higher than typical aerosol) in less than 2 min. We conclude that the characteristic seasonality imprint displayed world-wide by the SARS-Cov-2 mortality time-series throughout the diffusion of the outbreak (with temperate regions showing clear seasonal trends and equatorial regions suffering, on average, a systematically lower mortality), might have been efficiently set by the different intensity of UV-B/A Solar radiation hitting different Earth's locations at different times of the year. Our results suggest that Solar UV-B/A play an important role in planning strategies of confinement of the epidemics, which should be worked out and set up during spring/summer months and fully implemented during low-solar-irradiation periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Nicastro
- Italian National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF)-Rome Astronomical Observatory, Rome, Italy.
| | - Giorgia Sironi
- Italian National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF)-Brera Astronomical Observatory, Merate, Milan, Italy
| | - Elio Antonello
- Italian National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF)-Brera Astronomical Observatory, Merate, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Bianco
- Italian National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF)-Brera Astronomical Observatory, Merate, Milan, Italy
| | - Mara Biasin
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences L. Sacco, University of Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - John R Brucato
- Italian National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF)-Arcetri Astrophysical Observatory, Florence, Italy
| | - Ilaria Ermolli
- Italian National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF)-Rome Astronomical Observatory, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Pareschi
- Italian National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF)-Brera Astronomical Observatory, Merate, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Salvati
- Regional Agency for Environmental Protection of Lombardia (ARPA Lombardia), Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Tozzi
- Italian National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF)-Arcetri Astrophysical Observatory, Florence, Italy
| | - Daria Trabattoni
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences L. Sacco, University of Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Mario Clerici
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milano, Don C. Gnocchi Foundation, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
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McKenzie RL, Liley JB. Yet another benefit from sunlight in the fight against COVID-19? Br J Dermatol 2021; 185:246-247. [PMID: 34224585 PMCID: PMC8444796 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.20516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Linked Article: Cherrie et al. Br J Dermatol 2021; 185:363–370.
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Affiliation(s)
- R L McKenzie
- National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, Lauder Atmospheric Research Station, Central Otago, New Zealand
| | - J B Liley
- National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, Lauder Atmospheric Research Station, Central Otago, New Zealand
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