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Liu M, Vaartjes I, Hoek G, Jaddoe VWV, Santos S, Schreuder A, Vrijkotte TGM, Grobbee DE, Timmermans EJ. Longitudinal associations of air pollution and green space with cardiometabolic risk factor clustering among children in the Netherlands. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 190:108852. [PMID: 38943924 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108852] [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: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study examines longitudinal associations of air pollution and green space with cardiometabolic risk among children in the Netherlands. METHODS Three Dutch prospective cohorts with a total of 13,822 participants aged 5 to 17 years were included: (1) the Amsterdam Born Children and their Development (ABCD) study from Amsterdam (n = 2,547), (2) the Generation R study from Rotterdam (n = 5,431), and (3) the Lifelines study from northern Netherlands (n = 5,844). Air pollution (PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and elemental carbon (EC)) and green space exposures (density in multiple Euclidean buffer sizes) from 2006 to 2017 at home address level were used. Cardiometabolic risk factor clustering was assessed by a MetScore, which was derived from a confirmatory factor analysis of six cardiometabolic risk factors to assess the overall risk. Linear regression models with change in Metscore as the dependent variable, adjusted for multiple confounders, were conducted for each cohort separately. Meta-analyses were used to pool cohort-specific estimates. RESULTS Exposure to higher levels of NO2 and EC was significantly associated with increases in MetScore in Lifelines (per SD higher exposure: βNO2 = 0.006, 95 % CI = 0.001 to 0.010; βEC = 0.008, 95 % CI = 0.002 to 0.014). In the other two cohort studies, these associations were in the same direction but these were not significant. Higher green space density in 500-meter buffer zones around participants' residential addresses was not significantly associated with decreases of MetScore in all three cohorts. Higher green space density in 2000-meter buffer zones was significantly associated with decreases of MetScore in ABCD and Lifelines (per SD higher green space density: βABCD = -0.008, 95 % CI = -0.013 to -0.003; βLifelines = -0.002, 95 % CI = -0.003 to -0.00003). The pooled estimates were βNO2 = 0.003 (95 % CI = -0.001 to 0.006) for NO2, βEC = 0.003 (95 % CI = -0.001, 0.007) for EC, and β500m buffer = -0.0014 (95 % CI = -0.0026 to -0.0001) for green space. CONCLUSIONS More green space exposure at residence was associated with decreased cardiometabolic risk in children. Exposure to more NO2 and EC was also associated with increased cardiometabolic risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingwei Liu
- The Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Ilonca Vaartjes
- The Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Gerard Hoek
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Vincent W V Jaddoe
- Department of Pediatrics, Sophia Children's Hospital, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; The Generation R Study Group, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Susana Santos
- Department of Pediatrics, Sophia Children's Hospital, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; The Generation R Study Group, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, no. 135 4050-600, Porto, Portugal; Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, no. 135 4050-600, Porto, Portugal
| | - Anton Schreuder
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Tanja G M Vrijkotte
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Diederick E Grobbee
- The Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Erik J Timmermans
- The Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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Olsen Y, Arildskov E, Hansen SN, Pedersen M, Dharmage SC, Kloster M, Sigsgaard T. Outdoor Alternaria and Cladosporium spores and acute asthma. Clin Exp Allergy 2023; 53:1256-1267. [PMID: 37748858 DOI: 10.1111/cea.14397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Outdoor Alternaria and Cladosporium spores are ubiquitous. Few studies have assessed their impact on asthma hospitalizations providing conflicting results, mainly focused on vulnerable paediatric populations. We aimed to study the impact of outdoor Alternaria and Cladosporium concentrations on acute hospitalizations in the Capital Region of Denmark. METHODS This is a bi-directional case-crossover study with 26 years of national registry data at individual level on acute asthma hospitalizations and daily average data on Alternaria and Cladosporium, pollen (Artemisia, Poaceae), maximal temperature, and air pollution. Conditional logistic regression models were applied to assess the associations. Concentration quartiles at lag 0 were used for categorizing the exposure. RESULTS For lags 0-2, the odds of hospitalization were significantly higher for both Alternaria and Cladosporium at concentration quartile 2-4 compared with quartile 1. When stratified for age and sex, odds of hospitalization at Alternaria quartiles 2-4 were significantly higher in males below 40 years at lag 0-2, and at lag 0 in females (18-30 years), while quartiles 2-4 of Cladosporium concentrations were associated with significantly higher odds in boys (0-17 years) at lag 1-3, males (18-39 years) at lag 0-1, females (18-39 years) at lag 1-2, males (40-64 years) at lag 0-2, females (40-64 years) at lag 0 and 2, in seniors (65+ years) male at lag 1-2 and female at lag 0-1. The effect of Alternaria varied significantly depending on the level of Cladosporium (p < .0001). CONCLUSION Ambient Alternaria and Cladosporium spores can induce asthma hospitalizations. Males are more susceptible to both genera. Males and females under age 40 years are more susceptible to Alternaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulia Olsen
- Institute of Public Health & Danish Big Data Centre for Environment and Health (BERTHA), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Elias Arildskov
- Department of Public Health - Section of Biostatistics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Stefan Nygaard Hansen
- Department of Public Health - Section of Biostatistics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Marianne Pedersen
- Department of Public Health - Section of Environment, Occupation & Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Shyamali C Dharmage
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Torben Sigsgaard
- Institute of Public Health & Danish Big Data Centre for Environment and Health (BERTHA), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Gao Y, Huang W, Yu P, Xu R, Yang Z, Gasevic D, Ye T, Guo Y, Li S. Long-term impacts of non-occupational wildfire exposure on human health: A systematic review. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 320:121041. [PMID: 36639044 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The intensity and frequency of wildfires is increasing globally. The systematic review of the current evidence on long-term impacts of non-occupational wildfire exposure on human health has not been performed yet. To provide a systematic review and identify potential knowledge gaps in the current evidence of long-term impacts of non-occupational exposure to wildfire smoke and/or wildfire impacts on human health. We conducted a systematic search of the literature via MEDLINE, Embase and Scopus from the database inception to July 05, 2022. References from the included studies and relevant reviews were also considered. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) and a validated quality assessment framework were used to evaluate the quality of observational studies. Study results were synthesized descriptively. A total of 36 studies were included in our systematic review. Most studies were from developed countries (11 in Australia, 9 in Canada, 7 in the United States). Studies predominantly focused on mental health (21 studies, 58.33%), while evidence on long-term impacts of wildfire exposure on health outcomes other than mental health is limited. Current evidence indicated that long-term impacts of non-occupational wildfire exposure were associated with mortality (COVID-19 mortality, cardiovascular disease mortality and acute myocardial disease mortality), morbidity (mainly respiratory diseases), mental health disorders (mainly posttraumatic stress disorder), shorter height of children, reduced lung function and poorer general health status. However, no significant associations were observed for long-term impacts of wildfire exposure on child mortality and respiratory hospitalizations. The population-based high-quality evidence with quantitative analysis on this topic is still limited. Future well-designed studies considering extensive wildfire smoke air pollutants (e.g., particulate matter, ozone, nitrogen oxides) and estimating risk coefficient values for extensive health outcomes (e.g., mortality, morbidity) are warranted to fill current knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Gao
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Wenzhong Huang
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Pei Yu
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Rongbin Xu
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Zhengyu Yang
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Danijela Gasevic
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia; Centre for Global Health, Usher Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Tingting Ye
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Yuming Guo
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Shanshan Li
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.
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Long-Term Studies of Biological Components of Atmospheric Aerosol: Trends and Variability. ATMOSPHERE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos13050651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: Biological components of atmospheric aerosol affect the quality of atmospheric air. Long-term trends in changes of the concentrations of total protein (a universal marker of the biogenic component of atmospheric aerosol) and culturable microorganisms in the air are studied. Methods: Atmospheric air samples are taken at two locations in the south of Western Siberia and during airborne sounding of the atmosphere. Sample analysis is carried out in the laboratory using standard culture methods (culturable microorganisms) and the fluorescence method (total protein). Results: Negative trends in the average annual concentration of total protein and culturable microorganisms in the air are revealed over more than 20 years of observations. For the concentration of total protein and culturable microorganisms in the air, intra-annual dynamics is revealed. The ratio of the maximum and minimum values of these concentrations reaches an order of magnitude. The variability of concentrations does not exceed, as a rule, two times for total protein and three times for culturable microorganisms. At the same time, for the data obtained in the course of airborne sounding of the atmosphere, a high temporal stability of the vertical profiles of the studied concentrations was found. The detected biodiversity of culturable microorganisms in atmospheric air samples demonstrates a very high variability at all observation sites. Conclusions: The revealed long-term changes in the biological components of atmospheric aerosol result in a decrease in their contribution to the atmospheric air quality index.
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Hughes KM, Price D, Torriero AAJ, Symonds MRE, Suphioglu C. Impact of Fungal Spores on Asthma Prevalence and Hospitalization. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084313. [PMID: 35457129 PMCID: PMC9025873 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite making up a significant proportion of airborne allergens, the relationship between fungal spores and asthma is not fully explored. Only 80 taxa of fungi have so far been observed to exacerbate respiratory presentations, with Cladosporium spp., Aspergillus spp., Penicillium spp., and Alternaria spp. found to comprise the predominant allergenic airborne spores. Fungal spores have been found in indoor environments, such as hospitals and housing due to poor ventilation. Meanwhile, outdoor fungal spores exhibit greater diversity, and higher abundance and have been associated with hospitalizations from acute asthma presentations. In addition, fungal spores may be the underlying, and perhaps the “missing link”, factor influencing the heightened rate of asthma presentations during epidemic thunderstorm asthma events. To improve our knowledge gap on fungal spores, airborne allergen monitoring must be improved to include not only dominant allergenic fungi but also provide real-time data to accurately and quickly warn the general public. Such data will help prevent future asthma exacerbations and thus save lives. In this review, we examine the health risks of prominent allergenic fungal taxa, the factors influencing spore dispersal and distribution, and why improvements should be made to current sampling methods for public health and wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kira M. Hughes
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia; (K.M.H.); (D.P.)
- Deakin AIRwatch Pollen and Spore Counting and Forecasting Facility, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC 3216, Australia
| | - Dwan Price
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia; (K.M.H.); (D.P.)
- Deakin AIRwatch Pollen and Spore Counting and Forecasting Facility, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC 3216, Australia
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC 3216, Australia
- COVID-19 Response, Department of Health, 50 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Angel A. J. Torriero
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia;
| | - Matthew R. E. Symonds
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia;
| | - Cenk Suphioglu
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia; (K.M.H.); (D.P.)
- Deakin AIRwatch Pollen and Spore Counting and Forecasting Facility, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC 3216, Australia
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC 3216, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-3-5227-2886
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Raherison-Semjen C, Guilleminault L, Billiart I, Chenivesse C, De Oliveira A, Izadifar A, Lorenzo A, Nocent C, Oster JP, Padovani M, Perez T, Russier M, Steinecker M, Didier A. [Update of the 2021 recommendations for the management and follow-up of adult asthmatic patients under the guidance of the French Society of Pulmonology and the Paediatric Society of Pulmonology and Allergology. Long version]. Rev Mal Respir 2021; 38:1048-1083. [PMID: 34799211 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmr.2021.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C Raherison-Semjen
- Université de Bordeaux, INSERM UMR 1219, Epicene Team, Bordeaux, France.
| | - L Guilleminault
- Pôle des voies respiratoires, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France; Institut toulousain des maladies infectieuses et inflammatoires (Infinity), INSERM, UMR1291, CNRS UMR5051, université Toulouse III, CRISALIS F-CRIN, Toulouse, France
| | | | - C Chenivesse
- CHRU de Lille, service de pneumo-allergologie, 59000 Lille, France
| | - A De Oliveira
- Sorbonne université, département de médecine générale, Paris, France
| | - A Izadifar
- Département de pneumologie, centre cardiologique du Nord, Saint-Denis, France
| | - A Lorenzo
- Sorbonne université, département de médecine générale, Paris, France
| | - C Nocent
- CHG Côte Basque, Bayonne, France
| | - J P Oster
- Service de pneumologie, centre hospitalier Louis-Pasteur, Colmar, France
| | - M Padovani
- Espace Santé Ii, La Seyne-sur-Mer, France
| | - T Perez
- CHRU de Lille, service d'explorations fonctionnelles, 59000 Lille, France
| | - M Russier
- Service de pneumo-allergologie, CHR Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - M Steinecker
- Sorbonne université, département de médecine générale, Paris, France
| | - A Didier
- Université de Bordeaux, INSERM UMR 1219, Epicene Team, Bordeaux, France; Pôle des voies respiratoires, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
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Outdoor Mold and Respiratory Health: State of Science of Epidemiological Studies. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY-IN PRACTICE 2021; 10:768-784.e3. [PMID: 34648953 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2021.09.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fungal spores are the predominant biological particulates in outdoor air. However, in contrast to pollens or outdoor air pollution, little is known about their respiratory health risks. OBJECTIVES The objectives were to conduct the first review of epidemiological studies on the short- and long-term effects of outdoor mold exposure on respiratory health in children and adults. METHODS Health outcomes included asthma, lung function, and rhinitis. Cross-sectional and longitudinal epidemiological studies using quantitative measures of outdoor mold exposure (optical microscopy, culture-based methods) were selected, providing that important confounding factors including temporal trends or meteorological factors were accounted for. A systematic literature search was performed up to June 2020, leading to the selection of 37 publications. RESULTS Most studies were longitudinal and investigated short-term effects. There is evidence of an association between outdoor fungal exposure and an increase in asthma exacerbation among children for total spores, 2 phyla (ascomycetes, basidiomycetes), and 2 taxa (Cladosporium, Alternaria). A few studies also suggested an association for Coprinus, Ganoderma, Aspergillus-Penicillium, Botrytis, and Epicoccum in children, but this needs to be confirmed. Some studies reported mold associations with rhinitis, lung function, and among adults, but these were few in number or inconsistent. DISCUSSION Further ecological studies in different regions that measure exposure to all taxa over several years are required to better understand their impact on rhinitis, asthma exacerbations and lung function. Larger panel studies are necessary to identify threshold effects in susceptible individuals. Finally, further research should assess the long-term effects of outdoor mold.
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Abstract
The prevalence of allergic diseases is increasing rapidly and has already reached an epidemic level. Two major drivers of this development are climate change and globalization, which both induce an increase in allergens. Concomitant climate change fosters the spreading of the latter on a global scale. The increase in allergens not only aggravates the symptoms and the degree of suffering for patients who already are allergic, but also gives rise to new cases of allergies. The distribution of allergies in society follows a steep socioeconomic gradient worldwide. According to well-established theories of justice such a distribution of the allergy burden is unfair. This fact adds a major ethical dimension and challenge to the allergy epidemic. This chapter draws on the key points of policies for allergy prevention and treatment. It shows how related programs and measures can be conceptualized and prioritized according to the principles of distributional justice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clemens Heuson
- Zentrum für Klimaresilienz, Universität Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany.
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Fiuza BSD, Fonseca HF, Meirelles PM, Marques CR, da Silva TM, Figueiredo CA. Understanding Asthma and Allergies by the Lens of Biodiversity and Epigenetic Changes. Front Immunol 2021; 12:623737. [PMID: 33732246 PMCID: PMC7957070 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.623737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to different organisms (bacteria, mold, virus, protozoan, helminths, among others) can induce epigenetic changes affecting the modulation of immune responses and consequently increasing the susceptibility to inflammatory diseases. Epigenomic regulatory features are highly affected during embryonic development and are responsible for the expression or repression of different genes associated with cell development and targeting/conducting immune responses. The well-known, "window of opportunity" that includes maternal and post-natal environmental exposures, which include maternal infections, microbiota, diet, drugs, and pollutant exposures are of fundamental importance to immune modulation and these events are almost always accompanied by epigenetic changes. Recently, it has been shown that these alterations could be involved in both risk and protection of allergic diseases through mechanisms, such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, which can enhance Th2 responses and maintain memory Th2 cells or decrease Treg cells differentiation. In addition, epigenetic changes may differ according to the microbial agent involved and may even influence different asthma or allergy phenotypes. In this review, we discuss how exposure to different organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and helminths can lead to epigenetic modulations and how this correlates with allergic diseases considering different genetic backgrounds of several ancestral populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pedro Milet Meirelles
- Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Estudos Interdisciplinares e Transdisciplinares em Ecologia e Evolução (IN-TREE), Salvador, Brazil
| | - Cintia Rodrigues Marques
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista, Brazil
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Katelaris CH. Climate Change and Extreme Weather Events in Australia: Impact on Allergic Diseases. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am 2020; 41:53-62. [PMID: 33228872 DOI: 10.1016/j.iac.2020.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Several climate change-related predictions and observations have been documented for the Australian continent. Extreme weather events such as cycles of severe drought and damaging flooding are occurring with greater frequency and have a severe impact on human health. Two specific aspects of climate change affecting allergic and other respiratory disorders are outlined: firstly, the consequences of extreme weather events and secondly, the change in distribution of airborne allergens that results from various climate change factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constance H Katelaris
- Immunology and Allergy, Western Sydney University; Head of Unit, Campbelltown Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
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Flies EJ, Jones P, Buettel JC, Brook BW. Compromised Ecosystem Services From Urban Aerial Microbiomes: A Review of Impacts on Human Immune Function. Front Ecol Evol 2020. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2020.568902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
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Li S, Mei Q, Qian D, Huang X, Fan C, Quan J. Salbutamol combined with budesonide in treatment of pediatric bronchial asthma and its effect on eosinophils. Minerva Pediatr (Torino) 2020; 73:215-221. [PMID: 32960007 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5276.20.06003-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to investigate and discuss the salbutamol combined with budesonide in treatment of pediatric bronchial asthma (BA) and its effect on eosinophils (EOS). METHODS Ninety-eight BA children admitted and treated in our hospital from July 2016 to June 2017 were collected and divided into control group (N.=49) and observation group (N.=49) according to random number table. The children in control group were treated with budesonide and those in observation group were treated with salbutamol combined with budesonide. The clinical efficacy, pulmonary functions and levels of T-lymphocyte subsets (including cluster of differentiation 3 (CD3)+, CD4+, CD8+ and CD4+/CD8+) in the immune system between two groups were compared after the treatment; the levels of eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) and eotaxin in the children were compared before the treatment and at 1, 4 and 8 weeks after the treatment; the changes in EOS counts in blood and induced sputum of the children before and after the treatment were compared, and the EOS apoptosis rate was compared at 1, 4 and 8 weeks after the treatment. RESULTS The effective rate of treatment in observation group was significantly higher than that in control group (P<0.05). After the treatment, the indexes of pulmonary function in observation group were obviously better than those in control group (P<0.05). Compared with those in control group, the levels of CD3+, CD4+ and CD4+/CD8+ of the children in observation group were elevated remarkably, while the CD8+ level was lowered (P<0.05). The levels of ECP and eotaxin in the two groups were decreased after the treatment compared with those before the treatment, and the levels in observation group were superior to those in control group (P<0.05). After the treatment, the EOS counts of both groups of children were lower than those before the treatment, and the decrease in observation group was more notable than that in control group. At 1, 4 and 8 weeks after the treatment, the EOS apoptosis rate in observation group was obviously higher than that in control group (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS The treatment of salbutamol combined with budesonide for pediatric BA has significant therapeutic effects; it can restore the pulmonary functions rapidly and improve the immunity of the lung, reduce the levels of eotaxin, ECP and EOS of the child patients and promote EOS apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suihua Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qinghua Mei
- Department of Pharmacy, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China -
| | - Dan Qian
- Department of Pharmacy, Children's Hospital of Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xianghong Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, Children's Hospital of Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cuimiao Fan
- Department of Pharmacy, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia Quan
- Department of Pharmacy, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
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Allergen profile of rhinitis and asthma among Iraqi patients. CLINICAL EPIDEMIOLOGY AND GLOBAL HEALTH 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cegh.2019.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
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Borchers Arriagada N, Horsley JA, Palmer AJ, Morgan GG, Tham R, Johnston FH. Association between fire smoke fine particulate matter and asthma-related outcomes: Systematic review and meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 179:108777. [PMID: 31593836 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma-related outcomes are regularly used by studies to investigate the association between human exposure to landscape fire smoke and health. Robust summary effect estimates are required to inform health protection policy for fire smoke exposure. OBJECTIVE To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the association between short-term exposure to landscape fire smoke (LFS) fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and asthma-related outcomes. METHODS We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis following PRISMA guidelines. Four databases (PubMed, Medline, EMBASE and Scopus) and reference lists of recent fire smoke and health reviews were searched. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to evaluate the quality of case-crossover studies, and a previously validated quality assessment framework was used for observational studies lacking control groups. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and Egger's Test. The trim and fill method was used when there was evidence of publication bias. Sensitivity and influence analyses were conducted on all endpoints to test the robustness of estimates. Summary estimates were obtained for hospitalisations and emergency department (ED) visits. A descriptive analysis was conducted for physician visits, medication use, and salbutamol dispensations. RESULTS From an initial 181 articles (after duplicate removal), 20 studies were included for quantitative assessment and descriptive synthesis. LFS PM2.5 levels were positively associated with asthma hospitalisations (RR = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.02-1.09) and emergency department visits (RR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.04-1.09). Subgroup analyses found that females were more susceptible than males for ED visits, and that there was an increasing association by age groups for hospital admissions and ED visits. High heterogeneity between studies was observed, but results were robust to sensitivity analysis. CONCLUSIONS Females and all adults aged over 65 years appear to be the population groups most sensitive to asthma-related outcomes when exposed to LFS PM2.5. Overall, results were higher than those obtained for a typical PM2.5 mixture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Borchers Arriagada
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia; New South Wales Bushfire Risk Management Research Hub, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia.
| | - Joshua A Horsley
- Sydney School of Public Health, University Centre for Rural Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Andrew J Palmer
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia; Centre for Health Policy, School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Geoffrey G Morgan
- Sydney School of Public Health, University Centre for Rural Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rachel Tham
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Fay H Johnston
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia.
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15
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Tham R, Erbas B, Dharmage SC, Tang ML, Aldakheel F, Lodge CJ, Thomas PS, Taylor PE, Abramson MJ, Lowe AJ. Outdoor fungal spores and acute respiratory effects in vulnerable individuals. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 178:108675. [PMID: 31450143 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many outdoor fungal spores are ubiquitous, respirable and possibly allergenic. They may contribute to asthma symptoms; however, little is known about their effects on respiratory function. OBJECTIVE To investigate if outdoor fungal spore levels were associated with lung function or airway inflammation, and whether fungal sensitization or current asthma modified any associations. METHODS Cross-sectional associations between same day (Lag0) and cumulative 3-day lagged (Lag0-3) counts of 12 outdoor fungal spore taxa and pre-bronchodilator spirometry (FEV1, FVC, FEF25%-75%), bronchodilator response (BDR) and airway inflammation (fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) and exhaled breath condensate (EBC) nitrogen oxides (NOx) and pH were investigated in 936 Melbourne Atopy Cohort Study participants during September 2009 to December 2011. Generalized linear models were used to quantify associations with lung function, FeNO and EBC pH; generalized estimating equations for BDR; and ordinal logistic regression for EBC NOx. Models were adjusted for age, sex, height, temperature, relative humidity, grass pollen and sample storage time. Potential effect modification by fungal sensitization and current asthma were examined using interaction terms. RESULTS Mixed associations were found. Higher levels of Ustilago/smuts were associated with lower lung function at Lag0 (FEV1: 21ml [95%CI -36, -7]; FEF25%-75%: 39ml [-65, -13]) and Lag0-3 (FEV1: 9ml [-14, -4]; FEF25%-75% -18ml [-27, -9]). Positive BDR was associated with Ustilago/smuts (Lag0 OR = 1.1 [1.04, 1.2]; Lag0-3 OR = 1.04 [1.02, 1.07]), Alternaria (Lag0 OR = 1.3 [1.0, 1.6]) and Drechslera (Lag0 OR = 1.1 [1.03, 1.2]). Higher EBC NOx was associated with Cladosporium (Lag0-3 OR = 1.1 [1.0, 1.2]), Alternaria (Lag0-3 OR = 1.1 [1.0, 1.3]). No associations were found with higher FeNO. In those with fungal sensitization, Ustilago/smuts and Drechslera were associated with lower FEV1 and FVC; Cladosporium was associated with increased FEV1, FVC and FEF25%-75% but also with higher FeNO and lower EBC pH. In those with current asthma, Alternaria, Ustilago/smuts and Drechslera were associated with lower FEV1, FVC, FEF25-75% and EBC pH. CONCLUSION Exposure to outdoor fungal spores may be associated with lower lung function and increased airway inflammation, particularly in those with fungal sensitization and/or current asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Tham
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Bircan Erbas
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shyamali C Dharmage
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Mimi Lk Tang
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Fahad Aldakheel
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Caroline J Lodge
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Paul S Thomas
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Prince of Wales Hospital Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Philip E Taylor
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Michael J Abramson
- School of Public Health & Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Adrian J Lowe
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
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16
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Caillaud DM, Martin S, Ségala C, Dupuy N, Thibaudon M, Muti D. Short-acting β2-agonists (SABA) bronchodilator sales and outdoor mould in central France. Clin Transl Allergy 2019; 9:56. [PMID: 31666939 PMCID: PMC6813994 DOI: 10.1186/s13601-019-0296-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Temporal ecological studies have shown that outdoor moulds are associated with severe asthma exacerbations, as emergency department visits or hospitalisations. The aim of this was to assess the associations between daily sales of short-acting β2-agonists (SABA), a specific and frequent treatment for control of mild asthma exacerbations in children and young adults, and outdoor mould concentrations in the central France area over a 5 year period. Methods The relationship between daily changes in mould (25 species) concentrations and daily SABA sales within a population of patients aged 6 to 39 years in a middle-size town of central France (approximately 127,000) was obtained from social security database and analysed with generalized additive models, taking into account confounding factors (air pollution, weather conditions, pollen counts and trend). Results Daily SABA sales (mean, SD) rose from 17.3 (9.7) in 2010 to 22.7 (12) in 2015. The relative risk (RR [95% CI]) of SABA sales associated with an interquartile increase in mould concentration was significant in the whole population for Alternaria 1.06 [1.002–1.12]. When the influence of age and sex was accounted for, the relationship was significant only in 6–12 years old males for Alternaria 1.21 [1.04–1.41] and Aspergillus–Penicillium 1.08 [1.04–1.12]. Conclusions Daily SABA sales are positively associated with Alternaria spores in the general population of children and young adults. The association between daily SABA sales and temporal changes to Alternaria and Aspergillus–Penicillium in male children indicate that outdoor moulds contribute to asthma morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- D M Caillaud
- 1Service de Pneumologie-Allergologie, Hôpital Gabriel Montpied, Clermont Auvergne University, Montalembert Street, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | | | - N Dupuy
- Réseau National de Surveillance Aérobiologique, 69690 Brussieu, France
| | - M Thibaudon
- Réseau National de Surveillance Aérobiologique, 69690 Brussieu, France
| | - D Muti
- 1Service de Pneumologie-Allergologie, Hôpital Gabriel Montpied, Clermont Auvergne University, Montalembert Street, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
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17
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Arasi S, Porcaro F, Cutrera R, Fiocchi AG. Severe Asthma and Allergy: A Pediatric Perspective. Front Pediatr 2019; 7:28. [PMID: 30805326 PMCID: PMC6378301 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2019.00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe asthma in children is associated with significant morbidity and lung function decline. It represents a highly heterogeneous disorder with multiple clinical phenotypes. As its management is demanding, the social and economic burden are impressive. Several co-morbidities may contribute to worsen asthma control and complicate diagnostic and therapeutic management of severe asthmatic patients. Allergen sensitization and/or allergy symptoms may predict asthma onset and severity. A better framing of "allergen sensitization" and understanding of mechanisms underlying progression of atopic march could improve the management and the long-term outcomes of pediatric severe asthma. This review focuses on the current knowledge about interactions between severe asthma and allergies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Arasi
- Pediatric Allergology Unit, Bambino Gesù Hospital (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Porcaro
- Pediatric Pulmonology & Respiratory Intermediate Care Unit, Sleep and Long-Term Ventilation Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Renato Cutrera
- Pediatric Pulmonology & Respiratory Intermediate Care Unit, Sleep and Long-Term Ventilation Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
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18
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Bonner K, Roberts G. Does allergy explain why some children have severe asthma? Clin Exp Allergy 2018; 48:1594-1605. [PMID: 30019503 DOI: 10.1111/cea.13234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2018] [Revised: 06/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Asthma is a common disease in childhood with a minority of affected children having severe therapy-resistant asthma (STRA). Children with STRA can be differentiated from those with mild-moderate disease by greater allergic sensitization, increased eosinophilic airway inflammation, increased airway remodelling and reduced corticosteroid responsiveness. The aetiology of STRA in children is multifactorial but allergy seems to play a key role. Many children with asthma have coexisting allergic disease, and severe rhinitis seems to be an important driver of STRA in children. Allergies to foods, moulds, pollen and pets have also been associated with severe asthma exacerbations. Identifying allergens that are driving asthma symptoms in children with STRA may provide additional strategies for improving their disease control. Avoidance strategies may be possible. Additional monoclonal antibody therapy with Omalizumab or Mepolizumab may be helpful in children with clinically important polysensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Bonner
- Wexham Park Hospital, Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust, Slough, UK.,Clinical and Experimental Sciences and Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Graham Roberts
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences and Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK.,The David Hide Asthma and Allergy Research Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Isle of Wight, UK
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19
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Katelaris CH, Beggs PJ. Climate change: allergens and allergic diseases. Intern Med J 2018; 48:129-134. [PMID: 29415354 DOI: 10.1111/imj.13699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Climate change has been described as the biggest global health threat of the 21st century. The atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide, have increased significantly since the start of the Industrial Era around 1750, with much of this increase occurring over just the last 50 years or so. This is resulting in warming of the climate system as well as changes in precipitation and weather and climate extremes. These changes in climate are having wide-ranging impacts on the Earth's physical, biological and human systems, including human health. It is these impacts of climate change on human health that are the focus of this paper, particularly the impacts on allergens and allergic diseases. Such impacts are particularly significant in many countries where the prevalence of such diseases is high and/or increasing. There is now compelling evidence that rising air temperatures and carbon dioxide concentrations are, in some plant species, resulting in increased pollen production and allergenicity and advancement and lengthening of the pollen season. Changes in extreme events, such as thunderstorms and tropical cyclones, will also have impacts on allergic diseases, with, for example, the flooding associated with tropical cyclones leading to proliferation of mould growth in damp homes. The article also considers a range of responses to these health threats, including greenhouse gas mitigation, and adaptation strategies, such as enhanced environmental monitoring and health surveillance and adequate planning for the future medical workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constance H Katelaris
- Campbelltown Hospital, Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Paul J Beggs
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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20
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Guilbert A, Cox B, Bruffaerts N, Hoebeke L, Packeu A, Hendrickx M, De Cremer K, Bladt S, Brasseur O, Van Nieuwenhuyse A. Relationships between aeroallergen levels and hospital admissions for asthma in the Brussels-Capital Region: a daily time series analysis. Environ Health 2018; 17:35. [PMID: 29642904 PMCID: PMC5896062 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-018-0378-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Outdoor pollen grain and fungal spore concentrations have been associated with severe asthma exacerbations at the population level. The specific impact of each taxon and the concomitant effect of air pollution on these symptoms have, however, still to be better characterized. This study aimed to investigate the short-term associations between ambient concentrations of various aeroallergens and hospitalizations related to asthma in the Brussels-Capital Region (Belgium), an area recording especially high rates of admissions. METHODS Based on administrative records of asthma hospitalizations and regular monitoring of 11 tree/herbaceous pollen taxa and 2 fungal spore taxa, daily time series analyses covering the 2008-2013 period were performed. Effects up to 6 days after exposure were captured by combining quasi-Poisson regression with distributed lag models, adjusting for seasonal and long-term trends, day of the week, public holidays, mean temperature and relative humidity. Effect modification by age and air pollution (PM, NO2, O3) was tested. RESULTS A significant increase in asthma hospitalizations was observed for an interquartile range increase in grass (5.9%, 95% CI: 0.0, 12.0), birch (3.2%, 95% CI: 1.1, 5.3) and hornbeam (0.7%, 95% CI: 0.2, 1.3) pollen concentrations. For several taxa including grasses, an age modification effect was notable, the hospitalization risk tending to be higher in individuals younger than 60 years. Air pollutants impacted the relationships too: the risk appeared to be stronger for grass and birch pollen concentrations in case of high PM10 and O3 concentrations respectively. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that airborne grass, birch and hornbeam pollen are associated with severe asthma exacerbations in the Brussels region. These compounds appear to act in synergy with air pollution and to more specifically affect young and intermediate age groups. Most of these life-threatening events could theoretically be prevented with improved disease diagnosis/management and targeted communication actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane Guilbert
- Health and Environment Unit, Scientific Institute of Public Health, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bianca Cox
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Campus Diepenbeek Agoralaan Gebouw D, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Bruffaerts
- Mycology and Aerobiology Unit, Scientific Institute of Public Health, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lucie Hoebeke
- Mycology and Aerobiology Unit, Scientific Institute of Public Health, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ann Packeu
- Mycology and Aerobiology Unit, Scientific Institute of Public Health, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marijke Hendrickx
- Mycology and Aerobiology Unit, Scientific Institute of Public Health, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Koen De Cremer
- Health and Environment Unit, Scientific Institute of Public Health, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sandrine Bladt
- Laboratory and Air Quality Department, Brussels Environment, Avenue du Port 86c-3000, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Olivier Brasseur
- Laboratory and Air Quality Department, Brussels Environment, Avenue du Port 86c-3000, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - An Van Nieuwenhuyse
- Health and Environment Unit, Scientific Institute of Public Health, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
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21
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Caillaud D, Cheriaux M, Charpin D, Chaabane N, Thibaudon M. [Outdoor moulds and respiratory health]. Rev Mal Respir 2018; 35:188-196. [PMID: 29477567 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmr.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Mould spores constitute the largest portion of biologic particulate matter suspended in the outdoor atmosphere. There is no universal method for collecting airborne mould spores. The most used sampler, Hirst's apparatus, operates continuously and gives results in individual spores per cubic metre of air. Spore concentrations depend on available substrates, human activities such as agriculture, season, diurnal meteorological variations and climate changes. Under natural conditions, concentrations of over 100,000 spores per cubic metre are not exceptional. Cladosporium is the most commonly identified outdoor mould. The association between respiratory health and outdoor mould spore exposure has been assessed in clinical studies, and also by cross-sectional, and less often longitudinal, epidemiological studies. The relationship between asthma exacerbations and specific mould spores has been demonstrated in longitudinal studies. Cross sectional studies have related measurements of mould spore concentrations to severity of bronchial symptoms, drug consumption and peak-flow measurements in groups of asthmatic subjects. Ecological time-series studies use daily indicators of asthma exacerbations (emergency room visits, hospitalizations) within the general population. The moulds mainly incriminated are Cladosporium and Alternaria. They are associated with seasonal, but also perennial, asthma and rhinitis. Further studies are needed to better assess the impact of outdoor moulds on health, particularly basidiomycetes. Studies with molecular biology tools are probably a way forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Caillaud
- Service de pneumologie-allergologie, université d'Auvergne, CHU de G-Montpied, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France.
| | - M Cheriaux
- Service de pneumologie-allergologie, université d'Auvergne, CHU de G-Montpied, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - D Charpin
- Inserm U 1067, clinique des bronches, allergie et sommeil, hôpital Nord 2, Aix-Marseille université, 13000 Aix-Marseille, France
| | - N Chaabane
- Service de pneumologie-allergologie, université d'Auvergne, CHU de G-Montpied, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - M Thibaudon
- Réseau national de surveillance aérobiologique (RNSA), 69690 Brussieu, France
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22
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Bowatte G, Tham R, Perret JL, Bloom MS, Dong G, Waidyatillake N, Bui D, Morgan GG, Jalaludin B, Lodge CJ, Dharmage SC. Air Pollution and Otitis Media in Children: A Systematic Review of Literature. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:E257. [PMID: 29401661 PMCID: PMC5858326 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15020257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Young children are particularly vulnerable to otitis media (OM) which globally affects over 80% of children below the age of 3 years. Although there is convincing evidence for an association between environmental tobacco smoke exposure and OM in children, the relationship with ambient air pollution is not clear. We aimed to systematically review the literature on the relationship between ambient air pollution exposure and OM in children. A systematic search was performed in PubMed and EMBASE databases. Of 934 references identified, 24 articles were included. There is an increasing body of evidence supporting an association between higher ambient air pollution exposure and a higher risk of OM in children. While NO₂ showed the most consistent association with OM, other specific pollutants showed inconsistent associations. Studies were mainly conducted in high/middle income countries with limited evidence from low-income countries. Although there was a general consensus that higher air pollution exposure is associated with a greater prevalence of OM, the evidence for associations with specific pollutants is inconsistent. More well-designed studies on associations between specific air pollutants as risk factors for OM are warranted, especially in low income countries with high air pollution levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayan Bowatte
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population & Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia.
- National Institute of Fundamental Studies, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka.
| | - Rachel Tham
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population & Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia.
| | - Jennifer L Perret
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population & Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia.
| | - Michael S Bloom
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences School of Public Health University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics School of Public Health University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA.
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China.
| | - Guanghui Dong
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China.
| | - Nilakshi Waidyatillake
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population & Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia.
| | - Dinh Bui
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population & Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia.
| | - Geoffrey G Morgan
- University Centre for Rural Health, School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2480, Australia.
| | - Bin Jalaludin
- Healthy People and Places Unit, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool, NSW 2170, Australia.
| | - Caroline J Lodge
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population & Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia.
| | - Shyamali C Dharmage
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population & Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia.
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23
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Prevention of allergies in childhood - where are we now? Allergol Select 2017; 1:200-213. [PMID: 30402617 PMCID: PMC6040005 DOI: 10.5414/alx01807e] [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: 07/16/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Allergic diseases represent an increasing health problem for children worldwide. Along with allergic airway diseases, food allergy comes to the fore and herewith closely intertwined the hypothesis that an early allergic sensitization might occur via skin barrier defect(s). The importance of the skin barrier has been documented by several studies meanwhile. Not only genetic studies screen the associations between Filaggrin loss-of-function mutations, atopic dermatitis, allergic sensitization, food allergy and even airway diseases, but also epidemiological studies cast new light on the hypothesis of the atopic march. As another focus in context of the development of an allergic phenotype, the specific microbial exposure with all its diversities has been crystallized as it shapes the immune system in (early) infancy. Studies explored both, the role of human intestinal microbiota as well as the external microbial diversity. Unfortunately suitable markers for atopic predictors are still rare. New studies point out that specific IgE antibodies (e.g., IgE to Phl p 1) in children without allergic symptoms so far, might function as a pre-clinical biomarker, which may help to identify candidates for primary (allergen non-specific) or secondary (allergen-specific) prevention in terms of specific immunoprophylaxis. These manifold research activities document a complex increase in knowledge. Nevertheless new assumptions need to be substantively confirmed in order to finally generate the urgently needed preventive strategies for allergic diseases in childhood.
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24
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Iwata K, Watanabe M, Kurai J, Burioka N, Nakamoto S, Hantan D, Shimizu E. Association between transported Asian dust and outdoor fungal concentration during winter in a rural area of western Japan. Genes Environ 2017; 39:19. [PMID: 28680509 PMCID: PMC5493889 DOI: 10.1186/s41021-017-0079-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recently, Asian dust (AD) has become a serious health problem and several studies have clearly proven that AD can aggravate asthma. However, it remains unclear as to which components of AD have a strong effect on the asthma exacerbation caused by AD exposure. Outdoor fungi can increase emergency department visits and hospitalization for asthma exacerbation and can aggravate asthma symptoms. Therefore, this study was aimed at investigating the relationship between AD and outdoor fungi and determining the potential of fungi to cause airborne particulate matter (PM)-related inflammatory responses. Methods Airborne PM was collected each day from January 26, 2015 to February 27, 2015. Daily levels of outdoor fungi-associated PM were calculated using a culture-based method. Production of cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α was assessed in THP1 cells stimulated by the collected airborne PM each day. Results Daily levels of AD particles were assessed using Light Detection and Ranging and did not correlate with outdoor fungi (r = −0.17, P = 0.94). There was also no association between outdoor fungi and the daily production of IL-6 (r = 0.16, P = 0.37), IL-8 (r = 0.19, P = 0.30), or TNF-α induced by collected PM (r = 0.07, P = 0.70). However, the daily levels of AD particles were significantly associated with IL-6 (r = 0.91, P < 0.0001), IL-8 (r = 0.64, P = 0.0004), and TNF-α (r = 0.72, P < 0.0001) production. Conclusion AD did not increase the acute levels of outdoor fungi and outdoor fungi did not affect the cytokine production induced by airborne PM. These results suggest that outdoor fungi do not have any detectable effect on the asthma exacerbation caused by AD exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyoko Iwata
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan.,Mio Fertility Clinic, Reproductive Centre, Tottori, Japan
| | - Masanari Watanabe
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan
| | - Jun Kurai
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan
| | - Naoto Burioka
- Division of School of Health Science, Department of Pathobiological Science and Technology, Tottori University Faculty of Medicine, Tottori, Japan
| | - Sachiko Nakamoto
- Division of School of Health Science, Department of Pathobiological Science and Technology, Tottori University Faculty of Medicine, Tottori, Japan
| | - Degejirihu Hantan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan
| | - Eiji Shimizu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan
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25
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Del Giacco SR, Bakirtas A, Bel E, Custovic A, Diamant Z, Hamelmann E, Heffler E, Kalayci Ö, Saglani S, Sergejeva S, Seys S, Simpson A, Bjermer L. Allergy in severe asthma. Allergy 2017; 72:207-220. [PMID: 27775836 DOI: 10.1111/all.13072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
It is well recognized that atopic sensitization is an important risk factor for asthma, both in adults and in children. However, the role of allergy in severe asthma is still under debate. The term 'Severe Asthma' encompasses a highly heterogeneous group of patients who require treatment on steps 4-5 of GINA guidelines to prevent their asthma from becoming 'uncontrolled', or whose disease remains 'uncontrolled' despite this therapy. Epidemiological studies on emergency room visits and hospital admissions for asthma suggest the important role of allergy in asthma exacerbations. In addition, allergic asthma in childhood is often associated with severe asthma in adulthood. A strong association exists between asthma exacerbations and respiratory viral infections, and interaction between viruses and allergy further increases the risk of asthma exacerbations. Furthermore, fungal allergy has been shown to play an important role in severe asthma. Other contributing factors include smoking, pollution and work-related exposures. The 'Allergy and Asthma Severity' EAACI Task Force examined the current evidence and produced this position document on the role of allergy in severe asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. R. Del Giacco
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health; University of Cagliari; Cagliari Italy
| | - A. Bakirtas
- Department of Pediatric Allergy and Asthma; School of Medicine; Gazi University; Ankara Turkey
| | - E. Bel
- Department of Respiratory Medicine; Academic Medical Centre; University of Amsterdam; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - A. Custovic
- Department of Paediatrics; Imperial College London; London UK
| | - Z. Diamant
- Department of General Practice and Department of Clinical Pharmacy & Pharmacology; University Medical Centre Groningen; University of Groningen; Groningen The Netherlands
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergology; Lund University; Lund Sweden
| | - E. Hamelmann
- Klinik für Kinder and Jugendmedizin Kinderzentrum; Bethel Evangelisches Krankenhaus; Allergy Center; Ruhr University Bochum; Bielefeld Germany
| | - E. Heffler
- Respiratory Medicine and Allergology - Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine; University of Catania; Catania Italy
| | - Ö. Kalayci
- School of Medicine; Hacettepe University; Ankara Turkey
| | - S. Saglani
- National Heart & Lung Institute; Imperial College London; London UK
| | - S. Sergejeva
- Institute of Technology; University of Tartu; Tartu Estonia
| | - S. Seys
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology; Laboratory of Clinical Immunology; KU Leuven Belgium
| | - A. Simpson
- Centre Lead for Respiratory Medicine and Allergy; University Hospital of South Manchester; Education and Research Centre; University of Manchester; Manchester UK
| | - L. Bjermer
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergology; Lund University; Lund Sweden
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26
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Outdoor Environment and Pediatric Asthma: An Update on the Evidence from North America. Can Respir J 2017; 2017:8921917. [PMID: 28239256 PMCID: PMC5292365 DOI: 10.1155/2017/8921917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Revised: 11/09/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction. The evidence about the association between asthma and outdoor environmental factors has been inadequate for certain allergens. Even less is known about how these associations vary across seasons and climate regions. We reviewed recent literature from North America for research related to outdoor environmental factors and pediatric asthma, with attention to spatial-temporal variations of these associations. Method. We included indexed literature between years 2010 and 2015 on outdoor environmental factors and pediatric asthma, by searching PubMed. Results. Our search resulted in 33 manuscripts. Studies about the link between pediatric asthma and traffic-related air pollutants (TRAP) consistently confirmed the correlation between TRAP and asthma. For general air pollution, the roles of PM2.5 and CO were consistent across studies. The link between asthma and O3 varied across seasons. Regional variation exists in the role of SO2. The impact of pollen was consistent across seasons, whereas the role of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon was less consistent. Discussion. Recent studies strengthened the evidence about the roles of PM2.5, TRAP, CO, and pollen in asthma, while the evidence for roles of PM10-2.5, PM10, O3, NO2, SO2, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon in asthma was less consistent. Spatial-temporal details of the environment are needed in future studies of asthma and environment.
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27
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Löser S, Gregory LG, Zhang Y, Schaefer K, Walker SA, Buckley J, Denney L, Dean CH, Cookson WOC, Moffatt MF, Lloyd CM. Pulmonary ORMDL3 is critical for induction of Alternaria-induced allergic airways disease. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2016; 139:1496-1507.e3. [PMID: 27623174 PMCID: PMC5415707 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2016.07.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2015] [Revised: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genome-wide association studies have identified the ORM (yeast)-like protein isoform 3 (ORMDL3) gene locus on human chromosome 17q to be a highly significant risk factor for childhood-onset asthma. OBJECTIVE We sought to investigate in vivo the functional role of ORMDL3 in disease inception. METHODS An Ormdl3-deficient mouse was generated and the role of ORMDL3 in the generation of allergic airways disease to the fungal aeroallergen Alternaria alternata was determined. An adeno-associated viral vector was also used to reconstitute ORMDL3 expression in airway epithelial cells of Ormdl3 knockout mice. RESULTS Ormdl3 knockout mice were found to be protected from developing allergic airways disease and showed a marked decrease in pathophysiology, including lung function and airway eosinophilia induced by Alternaria. Alternaria is a potent inducer of cellular stress and the unfolded protein response, and ORMDL3 was found to play a critical role in driving the activating transcription factor 6-mediated arm of this response through Xbp1 and downstream activation of the endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation pathway. In addition, ORMDL3 mediated uric acid release, another marker of cellular stress. In the knockout mice, reconstitution of Ormdl3 transcript levels specifically in the bronchial epithelium resulted in reinstatement of susceptibility to fungal allergen-induced allergic airways disease. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that ORMDL3, an asthma susceptibility gene identified by genome-wide association studies, contributes to key pathways that promote changes in airway physiology during allergic immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Löser
- Inflammation, Repair & Development Section, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa G Gregory
- Inflammation, Repair & Development Section, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Youming Zhang
- Genomic Medicine Centre, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katrein Schaefer
- Inflammation, Repair & Development Section, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Simone A Walker
- Inflammation, Repair & Development Section, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - James Buckley
- Inflammation, Repair & Development Section, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Denney
- Inflammation, Repair & Development Section, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte H Dean
- Inflammation, Repair & Development Section, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - William O C Cookson
- Genomic Medicine Centre, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Miriam F Moffatt
- Genomic Medicine Centre, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Clare M Lloyd
- Inflammation, Repair & Development Section, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
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28
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Tham R, Vicendese D, Dharmage SC, Hyndman RJ, Newbigin E, Lewis E, O'Sullivan M, Lowe AJ, Taylor P, Bardin P, Tang MLK, Abramson MJ, Erbas B. Associations between outdoor fungal spores and childhood and adolescent asthma hospitalizations. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2016; 139:1140-1147.e4. [PMID: 27523960 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2016.06.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2015] [Revised: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood asthma is a significant public health problem and severe exacerbations can result in diminished quality of life and hospitalization. OBJECTIVE We sought to examine the contribution of outdoor fungi to childhood and adolescent asthma hospitalizations. METHODS The Melbourne Air Pollen Children and Adolescent study is a case-crossover study of 644 children and adolescents (aged 2-17 years) hospitalized for asthma. The Melbourne Air Pollen Children and Adolescent study collected individual data on human rhinovirus infection and sensitization to Alternaria and Cladosporium and daily counts of ambient concentrations of fungal spores, pollen, and air pollutants. Conditional logistic regression models were used to assess associations with increases in spore counts while controlling for potential confounding and testing interactions. RESULTS Exposure to Alternaria (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.07; 95% CI, 1.03-1.11), Leptosphaeria (aOR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.02-1.07), Coprinus (aOR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.01-1.07), Drechslera (aOR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.00-1.05), and total spores (aOR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.01-1.09) was significantly associated with child asthma hospitalizations independent of human rhinovirus infection. There were significant lagged effects up to 3 days with Alternaria, Leptosphaeria, Cladosporium, Sporormiella, Coprinus, and Drechslera. Some of these associations were significantly greater in participants with Cladosporium sensitization. CONCLUSIONS Exposures to several outdoor fungal spore taxa, including some not reported in previous research, are associated with the risk of child and adolescent asthma hospitalization, particularly in individuals sensitized to Cladosporium. We need further studies to examine cross-reactivity causing asthma exacerbations. Identifying sensitization to multiple fungal allergens in children with asthma could support the design and implementation of more effective strategies to prevent asthma exacerbations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Tham
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, the University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Don Vicendese
- School of Public Health, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shyamali C Dharmage
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, the University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rob J Hyndman
- Department of Econometrics & Business Statistics, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Ed Newbigin
- School of Biosciences, the University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Emma Lewis
- School of Biosciences, the University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Molly O'Sullivan
- Allergy & Immune Disorders, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, the Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Adrian J Lowe
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, the University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Allergy & Immune Disorders, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, the Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Philip Taylor
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Philip Bardin
- Monash Lung & Sleep, Monash Medical Centre and University and Hudson Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mimi L K Tang
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, the University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Allergy & Immune Disorders, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, the Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, the University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michael J Abramson
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Bircan Erbas
- School of Public Health, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
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29
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Dong X, Xu M, Ren Z, Gu J, Lu M, Lu Q, Zhong N. Regulation of CBL and ESR1 expression by microRNA-22‑3p, 513a-5p and 625-5p may impact the pathogenesis of dust mite-induced pediatric asthma. Int J Mol Med 2016; 38:446-56. [PMID: 27277384 PMCID: PMC4935459 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2016.2634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite evidence for the involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) in pediatric asthma, the mechanism responsible has not yet been fully elucidated. We aimed to identify novel miRNAs and to study their pathogenic role(s) in children with dust mite-induced asthma in order to gain a better understanding of the underlying mechanism responsible for this disease. For this purpose, 62 patients with asthma as well as 62 age- and gender-matched healthy controls were recruited. Twelve pairs of subjects were randomly subjected to microarray-based discovery analysis using a miRCURY LNA™ array. The differential expression of miRNAs and their targeted messenger RNAs were validated using RT-qPCR. Plasma concentrations of cytokines were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. The results revealed that three novel miRNAs - miR-22-3p, miR-513a-5p and miR-625-5p - were significantly downregulated in the asthma group compared with the control group (p<0.01), whereas the transcript levels of Cbl proto-oncogene, E3 ubiquitin protein ligase (CBL), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, coactivator 1 beta (PPARGC1B), and estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) that are targeted by these miRNAs were increased (p<0.01). There were significant differences in the plasma concentrations of γ-interferon, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-10 between the two groups (p<0.05). Thus, miR-513a-5p, miR-22-3p and miR-625-5p may have an impact on the regulation of the immune response and inflammatory cytokine pathways through the regulation of their target gene(s), CBL, PPARGC1B and ESR1, which may then lead to a dust mite-induced asthma attack. Our findings may provide novel insights into the pathogenesis of pediatric asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Dong
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Genetics, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Miao Xu
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Genetics, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Zhaorui Ren
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Genetics, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Jianlei Gu
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Genetics, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Min Lu
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Quan Lu
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Nanbert Zhong
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Genetics, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
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30
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Association between Outdoor Fungal Concentrations during Winter and Pulmonary Function in Children with and without Asthma. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:ijerph13050452. [PMID: 27136569 PMCID: PMC4881077 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13050452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2016] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Outdoor fungi are important components of airborne particulate matter (PM). However, the associations between pulmonary function and outdoor fungi are less well known compared to other airborne PM constituents. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between outdoor fungi and pulmonary function in children. Morning peak expiratory flow (PEF) rates were measured daily in 339 schoolchildren (including 36 with asthma), aged 10 to 12, 2 to 27 February 2015. Airborne PM was collected on filters, using a high volume air sampler, each day during the study period. The daily concentration of outdoor fungi-associated PM was calculated using a culture-based method. A linear mixed model was used to estimate the association between PEF values and daily concentrations of outdoor fungi, and the daily levels of suspended PM (SPM) and PM ≤ 2.5 μm (PM2.5). An increase in the interquartile range (46.2 CFU/m3) for outdoor fungal concentration led to PEF changes of −1.18 L/min (95% confidence interval, −2.27 to −0.08) in all children, 1.22 L/min (−2.96 to 5.41) in children without asthma, and −1.44 L/min (−2.57 to −0.32) in children with asthma. Outdoor fungi showed a significant negative correlation with PM2.5 levels (r = −0.4, p = 0.04), but not with SPM (r = ‒0.3, p = 0.10) levels. Outdoor fungi may be associated with pulmonary dysfunction in children. Furthermore, children with asthma may show greater pulmonary dysfunction than those without asthma.
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31
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de Barros Bezerra GF, Haidar DMC, da Silva MACN, Filho WEM, Dos Santos RM, Rosa IG, de Castro Viana GM, Zaror L, Soares Brandão Nascimento MDD. IgE serum concentration against airborne fungi in children with respiratory allergies. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol 2016; 12:18. [PMID: 27127524 PMCID: PMC4848864 DOI: 10.1186/s13223-016-0128-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2015] [Accepted: 04/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background To evaluate total and specific E immunoglobulin (IgE) antibody concentrations in underage subjects with respiratory allergic diseases. Methods This study was a transversal-type study in 100 underage subjects between 4 and 14 years old, with asthma and/or allergic rhinitis. Total and specific IgE were quantified for airborne fungi in the city of São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil. Five distinct regions—North, South, Center, East and West—were selected so fungi could be collected monthly for 1 year. Twenty genera were identified. Aspergillus, Penicillium, Fusarium and Neurospora were selected for the preparation of sensitizing antigens from ELISA dishes. IgE total concentrations were estimated using the same method. Results IgE total serum concentration was increased in 97 % of the atopic subjects: 75 % of the subjects presented increased IgE anti-Aspergillus concentrations, 87 % presented IgE anti-Penicillium, 45 % presented IgE anti-Fusarium, and 46 % presented IgE anti-Neurospora. Conclusions Atopic subjects presented simultaneous IgE total and specific elevations for the tested fungi, possibly due to polysensitization caused by the presence of fungi in all of the areas all year. However, determining the clinical significance of the results was not yet possible because most of the data were isolated variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geusa Felipa de Barros Bezerra
- Postgraduate building of the Center for Life Sciences and Health, Federal University of Maranhão, Portuguese Avenue, 1966, Bacanga, São Luís, MA CEP 65080-805 Brazil
| | | | - Marcos Antonio Custódio Neto da Silva
- Postgraduate building of the Center for Life Sciences and Health, Federal University of Maranhão, Portuguese Avenue, 1966, Bacanga, São Luís, MA CEP 65080-805 Brazil
| | - Walbert Edson Muniz Filho
- Postgraduate building of the Center for Life Sciences and Health, Federal University of Maranhão, Portuguese Avenue, 1966, Bacanga, São Luís, MA CEP 65080-805 Brazil
| | - Ramon Moura Dos Santos
- Postgraduate building of the Center for Life Sciences and Health, Federal University of Maranhão, Portuguese Avenue, 1966, Bacanga, São Luís, MA CEP 65080-805 Brazil
| | - Ivone Garros Rosa
- Postgraduate building of the Center for Life Sciences and Health, Federal University of Maranhão, Portuguese Avenue, 1966, Bacanga, São Luís, MA CEP 65080-805 Brazil
| | - Graça Maria de Castro Viana
- Postgraduate building of the Center for Life Sciences and Health, Federal University of Maranhão, Portuguese Avenue, 1966, Bacanga, São Luís, MA CEP 65080-805 Brazil
| | - Luís Zaror
- Universidade Mayor de Temuco, Valdivia, Chile
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Caminati M, Durić-Filipović I, Arasi S, Peroni DG, Živković Z, Senna G. Respiratory allergies in childhood: Recent advances and future challenges. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2015; 26:702-10. [PMID: 26582212 DOI: 10.1111/pai.12509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The burden of allergic airway diseases still represents a major health problem in childhood. Despite many different options are currently available for the diagnostic work-up and management, the overall disease control in terms of impact on quality of life, morbidity and mortality, is not yet satisfactory. The extreme variability of individual risk factors and severity determinants may account for it. On the other side, the knowledge of the multifaceted allergy background could pave the way to primary prevention, early intervention and disease course modification. In fact, most of current research is focusing on the identification of biological and clinical predictive markers of allergy and asthma onset. This review aims at summarizing the latest achievements concerning the complex inter-relation between genetic predisposition and environmental factors, and their impact on prevention strategies and early identification of at risk subjects. An update on the diagnostic and monitoring tools as well as an insight into the newest treatments options is also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Caminati
- Allergy Unit, Verona University and General Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Stefania Arasi
- Allergy Unit, Department of Pediatrics, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Diego G Peroni
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,International Inflammation (in-FLAME) Network of the World Universities Network, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Zorica Živković
- Children's Hospital for Lung Diseases and Tuberculosis, Medical Center 'Dr Dragisa Misovic', Belgrade, Serbia.,Faculty of Pharmacy, European University, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Gianenrico Senna
- Allergy Unit, Verona University and General Hospital, Verona, Italy
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33
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Assessing the contribution of fallen autumn leaves to airborne fungi in an urban environment. Urban Ecosyst 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s11252-015-0514-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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