1
|
de Weger LA, Verbeek C, Markey E, O'Connor DJ, Gosling WD. Greater difference between airborne and flower pollen chemistry, than between pollen collected across a pollution gradient in the Netherlands. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 934:172963. [PMID: 38705300 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172963] [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: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence in allergic diseases has increased considerably in the past decades. An important trigger of the symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is the pollen of wind-pollinating plants. This pollen is developed by plants and is released into the air where it gets exposed to environmental influences and air pollution. We investigated the chemical changes to pollen that occur after release from the flower in a rural (Veluwe) and an urban (Amsterdam) site in the Netherlands using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. During the spring/summer of 2020 (during the COVID pandemic) the pollen of nine taxa (Alnus, Betula, Fagus, Fraxinus, Pinus, Plantago, Poaceae, Quercus and Salix) were collected directly from flowers and the air (using a mobile sampler). FTIR spectra were obtained for multiple individual pollen grains for each taxa. The spectra obtained from airborne pollen collected at the rural vs. urban sites did not show any statistical difference. This is possibly a result of a reduced difference in pollutant concentrations between the two sites due to the COVID-19-lockdown measures were in place. However, consistent differences in the FTIR spectra recovered from airborne vs. flower pollen were recorded for all pollen taxa. After the release from the flower the chemical composition of the pollen changed: (i) polysaccharides are converted to monosaccharides; (ii) protein concentration and/or nitration/oxidation level is altered; (iii) lipids are modified and/or reduced in concentration. These changes may alter the allergenicity of the pollen and suggest that further work on the allergenic nature of airborne pollen is required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Letty A de Weger
- Leiden University Medical Center Department of Pulmonology and Department of Pulmonology and Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - Cas Verbeek
- Institute for Biodiversity & Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Emma Markey
- School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David J O'Connor
- School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | - William D Gosling
- Institute for Biodiversity & Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rida J, Bouchriti Y, Ait Haddou M, Achbani A, Sine H, Serhane H. Meteorological factors and climate change impact on asthma: a systematic review of epidemiological evidence. J Asthma 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38953539 DOI: 10.1080/02770903.2024.2375272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This systematic review aimed to investigate the epidemiological data about meteorological factors and climate change (CC) impact on asthma. DATA SOURCES A search was performed using three databases (Web of Science, Science Direct, and MEDLINE) for all relevant studies published from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2022. STUDY SELECTIONS This systematic review complied with the PRISMA document's requirements, including studies related to meteorological factors and CC impact on asthma. The search included studies published in English or French language, and was based on title, abstract, and complete text. Documents not meeting inclusion requirements were excluded. RESULTS We identified 18 studies published in the last five years that were eligible for inclusion in this review. We found that these studies concerned European, Asian, American, and Oceanic cities. Extreme variations in temperature, humidity, wind speed, exceptional incidents like hurricanes, cold and heat waves, and seasonal shifts were strongly correlated with the worsening of asthmatic symptoms, particularly in childhood. In addition, excessive concentrations of air pollutants and aeroallergens were linked to pediatric asthma emergency hospital admissions. CONCLUSIONS A significant association between the consequences of CC and asthma in adults particularly in children has been demonstrated. Future research should quantify the impact of global change in climate regarding the aeroallergens' distribution in terms of geography and time. It is also necessary to research the impact of air pollution on asthmatic health, like sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), and particles having an aerodynamic diameter lower than 2.5 µm (PM2.5).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jamila Rida
- Research Laboratory of Innovation in Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
- High Institute of Nursing Professions and Health Techniques, Health Sciences and Environment Laboratory, Health Sciences, Epidemiology and Human Pathologies Research Team, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Youssef Bouchriti
- High Institute of Nursing Professions and Health Techniques, Health Sciences and Environment Laboratory, Health Sciences, Epidemiology and Human Pathologies Research Team, Agadir, Morocco
- Geosciences, Environment and Geomatic Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Ait Haddou
- Department of Geography, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, Morocco
| | - Abderrahmane Achbani
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
- High Institute of Nursing Professions and Health Techniques, Marrakesh, Morocco
| | - Hasnaa Sine
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
- High Institute of Nursing Professions and Health Techniques, Marrakesh, Morocco
| | - Hind Serhane
- Research Laboratory of Innovation in Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bonomo S, Marchetti P, Fasola S, Vesentini R, Marcon A, Ferrante G, Antonicelli L, Battaglia S, Bono R, Squillacioti G, Murgia N, Pirina P, Villani S, La Grutta S, Verlato G, Viegi G. Asthma incidence can be influenced by climate change in Italy: findings from the GEIRD study-a climatological and epidemiological assessment. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19047. [PMID: 37923929 PMCID: PMC10624678 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46423-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
An association between climatic conditions and asthma incidence has been widely assumed. However, it is unclear whether climatic variations have a fingerprint on asthma dynamics over long time intervals. The aim of this study is to detect a possible correlation of the Summer North Atlantic Oscillation (S-NAO) index and the self-calibrated palmer drought severity index (scPDSI) with asthma incidence over the period from 1957 to 2006 in Italy. To this aim, an analysis of non-stationary and non-linear signals was performed on the time series of the Italian databases on respiratory health (ISAYA and GEIRD) including 36,255 individuals overall, S-NAO, and scPDSI indices to search for characteristic periodicities. The ISAYA (Italian Study on Asthma in Young Adults) and GEIRD (Gene Environment Interactions in Respiratory Diseases) studies collected information on respiratory health in general population samples, born between 1925 and 1989 and aged 20-84 years at the time of the interview, from 13 Italian centres. We found that annual asthma total incidence shared the same periodicity throughout the 1957-2006 time interval. Asthma incidence turned out to be correlated with the dynamics of the scPDSI, modulated by the S-NAO, sharing the same averaged 6 year-periodicity. Since climate patterns appear to influence asthma incidence, future studies aimed at elucidating the complex relationships between climate and asthma incidence are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Bonomo
- CNR Institute of Environmental Geology and Geo-Engineering (CNR-IGAG), Montelibretti, Rome, Italy.
| | - P Marchetti
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - S Fasola
- CNR Institute of Translational Pharmacology (CNR-IFT), Palermo, Italy
| | - R Vesentini
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - A Marcon
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - G Ferrante
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - S Battaglia
- Dipartimento PROMISE, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - R Bono
- Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - G Squillacioti
- Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - N Murgia
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - P Pirina
- Respiratory Unit, Sassari University, Sassari, Italy
| | - S Villani
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - S La Grutta
- CNR Institute of Translational Pharmacology (CNR-IFT), Palermo, Italy
| | - G Verlato
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - G Viegi
- CNR Institute of Clinical Physiology (CNR-IFC), Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hu Q, Shi X, Wang D, Huang Y, Gao J, Guan H, Ren H, Lin X, Lu Z, Tong S, Yang G, Liu S. Effects of climate and environment on migratory old people with allergic diseases in China: Protocol for a Sanya cohort study. Heliyon 2023; 9:e21949. [PMID: 38045199 PMCID: PMC10692782 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Several studies have reported that the mountain climate can alleviate asthma, however, the effect of tropical climate on migratory elderly, especially in people with respiratory or allergic diseases is unknown. Objectives This cohort study aims to explore impact of climate and environmental changes on allergic diseases in migratory old people. Methods In this prospective cohort study, we recruited 750 older migratory people, the majority of whom were homeowners to minimize the risk of loss to follow up. The study's inclusion criteria were elderly individuals had moved from northern China to Sanya and suffered from either asthma or allergic diseases. Prior to participation, these individuals provided informed consent and underwent baseline assessment. Subsequently, they will be followed for three years. A face-to-face interview was conducted to gather information regarding their living environment and habits. Trained investigators administered the questionnaires and performed physical examinations including height, weight, and blood pressure, while a professional respiratory doctor conducted pulmonary function tests. Blood samples were promptly tested routine blood test, liver function, kidney function, glucose, triglyceride, allergens, and inflammatory factors. Climate and environmental data were obtained from Sanya Meteorological Bureau and Ecological Environment Bureau, respectively. We primarily compared the differences of participants with asthma or allergic diseases between northern China and Sanya in southern China by Chi-square test, t-test or Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Findings A total of 750 participants were recruited in this cohort from fourteen communities. All participants were surveyed questionnaires about health and family environment, underwent physical examinations, and collected biological samples for laboratory examinations. Novelty This is the first study to evaluate the effects of tropical climate and environment on elderly migrants from cold regions. This study has important implication for the health tourism and aging health, especially for the elderly migrants who suffered the respiratory and allergic diseases. Furthermore, this cohort study establishes a solid foundation for investigating the influence of environmental changes on elderly migrants with allergic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Hu
- Department of Hospital Infection, Hainan Branch, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Sanya, 572022, China
| | - Xiufeng Shi
- Department of Hospital Infection, Hainan Branch, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Sanya, 572022, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Department of Science and Education, Hainan Branch, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Sanya, 572022, China
| | - Yongzhen Huang
- Department of Hospital Infection, Hainan Branch, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Sanya, 572022, China
| | - Jiashi Gao
- Department of Science and Education, Hainan Branch, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Sanya, 572022, China
| | - Haidao Guan
- Department of Science and Education, Hainan Branch, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Sanya, 572022, China
| | - Han Ren
- Department of Hospital Management, Hainan Branch, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Sanya, 572022, China
| | - Xiaoya Lin
- Big Data Center, Hainan Branch, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Sanya, 572022, China
| | - Zhaoui Lu
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Hainan Branch, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Sanya, 572022, China
| | - Shilu Tong
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Children Health Advocacy Institute, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Guiyan Yang
- Department of Hospital Management, Hainan Branch, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Sanya, 572022, China
| | - Shijian Liu
- Big Data Center, Hainan Branch, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Sanya, 572022, China
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Children Health Advocacy Institute, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yusuf OM, Rextin AT, Ahmed B, Aman R, Anjum T, Mustafa S, Nasim M, Yusuf SO, Lin C, Zahra S, Pinnock H, Schwarze J. Association of asthma exacerbations with paper mulberry (Broussenetia papyrifera) pollen in Islamabad: An observational study. J Glob Health 2023; 13:04091. [PMID: 37651635 PMCID: PMC10471151 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.13.04091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although the role of airborne plant pollen in causing allergic rhinitis has been established, the association of concentrations of paper mulberry (Broussenetia papyrifera) pollens in the air and incidence of asthma exacerbations has not, despite an observed increase in the number of asthma patients attending physician clinics and hospital Accident and Emergency (A&E) Departments during the paper mulberry pollen season. We aimed to assess the association between paper mulberry pollen concentrations (typically peaking in March each year) and asthma exacerbations in the city of Islamabad. Methods We used three approaches to investigate the correlation of paper mulberry pollen concentration with asthma exacerbations: A retrospective analysis of historical records (2000-2019) of asthma exacerbations of patients from the Allergy and Asthma Institute, Pakistan (n = 284), an analysis of daily nebulisations in patients attending the A&E Department of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (March 2020 to July 2021), a prospective peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) diary from participants (n = 40) with or without asthma and with or without paper mulberry sensitisation. We examined associations between pollen data and asthma exacerbations using Pearson correlation. Results We found a strong positive correlation between mean paper mulberry pollen counts and clinical records of asthma exacerbations in patients sensitised to paper mulberry (Pearson correlation coefficient (r) = 0.86; P < 0.001), but not in non-sensitised patients (r = 0.32; P = 0.3). There was a moderate positive correlation between monthly nebulisation counts and pollen counts (r = 0.56; P = 0.03), and a strong negative correlation between percent predicted PEFR and pollen counts in sensitised asthma patients (r = -0.72, P < 0.001). However, these correlations were of low magnitude in the non-sensitised asthma (r = -0.16; P < 0.001) and sensitised non-asthma (r = -0.28; P < 0.001) groups. Conclusions Our three approaches to analysis all showed an association between high paper mulberry pollen concentration in Islamabad and asthma exacerbations. Predicting pollen peaks could enable alerts and mobilise strategies to proactively manage these peaks of asthma exacerbations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Aimal T Rextin
- The Allergy & Asthma Institute, Islamabad, Pakistan
- National University of Science and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Rubina Aman
- The Allergy & Asthma Institute, Islamabad, Pakistan
- Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | | | | | - Mehwish Nasim
- The Allergy & Asthma Institute, Islamabad, Pakistan
- The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | - Chun Lin
- NIHR Global Health Research Unit on Respiratory Health (RESPIRE), Usher Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Summan Zahra
- The Allergy & Asthma Institute, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Hillary Pinnock
- NIHR Global Health Research Unit on Respiratory Health (RESPIRE), Usher Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jürgen Schwarze
- NIHR Global Health Research Unit on Respiratory Health (RESPIRE), Usher Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Child Life and Health, Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Raith M, Swoboda I. Birch pollen-The unpleasant herald of spring. FRONTIERS IN ALLERGY 2023; 4:1181675. [PMID: 37255542 PMCID: PMC10225653 DOI: 10.3389/falgy.2023.1181675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Type I respiratory allergies to birch pollen and pollen from related trees of the order Fagales are increasing in industrialized countries, especially in the temperate zone of the Northern hemisphere, but the reasons for this increase are still debated and seem to be multifaceted. While the most important allergenic molecules of birch pollen have been identified and characterized, the contribution of other pollen components, such as lipids, non-allergenic immunomodulatory proteins, or the pollen microbiome, to the development of allergic reactions are sparsely known. Furthermore, what also needs to be considered is that pollen is exposed to external influences which can alter its allergenicity. These external influences include environmental factors such as gaseous pollutants like ozone or nitrogen oxides or particulate air pollutants, but also meteorological events like changes in temperature, humidity, or precipitation. In this review, we look at the birch pollen from different angles and summarize current knowledge on internal and external influences that have an impact on the allergenicity of birch pollen and its interactions with the epithelial barrier. We focus on epithelial cells since these cells are the first line of defense in respiratory disease and are increasingly considered to be a regulatory tissue for the protection against the development of respiratory allergies.
Collapse
|
7
|
Freedman MS, Forno E. Initial emergency department vital signs may predict PICU admission in pediatric patients presenting with asthma exacerbation. J Asthma 2023; 60:960-968. [PMID: 35943201 PMCID: PMC10027615 DOI: 10.1080/02770903.2022.2111686] [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: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Severe asthma exacerbations account for a large share of asthma morbidity, mortality, and costs. Here, we aim to identify early predictive factors associated with pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission. METHODS We performed a retrospective observational study of 5,185 emergency department (ED) encounters at a large children's hospital, including 86 (1.7%) resulting in PICU admission between 10/1/2015 and 8/7/2018 with ICD9/ICD10 codes for "asthma," "bronchospasm," or "wheezing." Vital signs and demographic information were obtained from electronic health record data and analyzed for each encounter. Predictive factors were identified using adjusted regression models, and our primary outcome was PICU admission. RESULTS Higher mean heart rates (HRs) and respiratory rates (RRs), and lower SpO2 within the first hour of ED presentation were independently associated with PICU admission. Odds of PICU admission increased 70% for each 10 beats/min higher HR, 125% for each 10 breaths/min higher RR, and 34% for each 5% lower SpO2. A binary predictive index using 1-h vitals yielded OR 13.4 (95% CI 8.1-22.1) for PICU admission, area under receiver operator characteristic (AUROC) curve 0.84 and overall accuracy of 80.1%. Results were largely unchanged (AUROC 0.84-0.88) after adjusting for surrogates of asthma severity and initial ED management. In combination with a secondary standardized clinical asthma distress score, positive predictive value increased by sevenfold (6.1%-46%). CONCLUSIONS A predictive index using HR, RR, and SpO2 within the first hour of ED presentation accurately predicted PICU admission in this cohort. Automated vital signs trend analysis may help identify vulnerable patients quickly upon presentation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Freedman
- Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA
| | - Erick Forno
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Puci MV, Ferraro OE, Monti MC, Gnesi M, Borrelli P, Cadum E, Perotti P, Migliazza S, Dalle Carbonare S, Montomoli C, Villani S. Asthma, COPD, Respiratory, and Allergic Health Effects in an Adult Population Living near an Italian Refinery: A Cross-Sectional Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11071037. [PMID: 37046964 PMCID: PMC10093894 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11071037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Globally, 545 million people suffer from chronic respiratory diseases with a wide geographical variability. Risk factors for asthma are both genetic and related to several environmental factors (internal and external pollutants); these also have an important role in the occurrence of COPD. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of asthma, COPD, and asthma/COPD overlap (ACO) in an adult population living in two municipalities located in the Po Valley. METHODS A standardized questionnaire on respiratory symptoms and sociodemographic characteristics was self-administered to a random sample of the adult population aged 20-64 years, living near a refinery in Northern Italy during the period between 2016 and 2019. Logistic and multinomial regression were implemented to explore factors associated with asthma, COPD, and ACO. RESULTS In total, 1108 subjects filled out the questionnaire, the mean age was 48.02 ± 12.34 years (range 21-68), and 53% of the respondents/participants were female. Half of the responders were non-smokers, but the frequency of current and former smokers was significantly greater in men than in women (p < 0.001). The likelihood of being a probable case of asthma decreased with increasing age and increased for smokers. Tobacco smoke was associated with the presence of COPD and ACO. CONCLUSION Respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD are common in the general population, with differences among countries worldwide. Our findings show, on the basis of the main confirmed risk factor, namely smoking, that it is useful to plan target programs and actions in order to reduce smoking, thus improving the quality of life in public health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela Valentina Puci
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Ottavia Eleonora Ferraro
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Monti
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco Gnesi
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Paola Borrelli
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Laboratory of Biostatistics, Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Ennio Cadum
- Health Protection Agency of Pavia (ATS Pavia), 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Pietro Perotti
- Health Protection Agency of Pavia (ATS Pavia), 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Simona Migliazza
- Health Protection Agency of Pavia (ATS Pavia), 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Cristina Montomoli
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Simona Villani
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Çağlak S, Matzarakis A. Evaluation of the relationship between thermal comfort conditions and respiratory diseases in Amasya City, Turkey. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR GESUNDHEITSWISSENSCHAFTEN = JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2023:1-11. [PMID: 37361296 PMCID: PMC10029800 DOI: 10.1007/s10389-023-01887-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Aim Studies examining the relationship between thermal comfort conditions-the state of feeling insulated against atmospheric factors in the environment-and diseases have been very limited. In Turkey, which is in the transition zone of air masses in middle latitudes, thermal comfort conditions change frequently due to sudden weather changes. This study was conducted to examine the relationship between thermal comfort conditions and respiratory diseases in Amasya, an exemplary Turkish city in the Black Sea Region of Turkey. Subject and methods To determine the thermal comfort conditions in the study between 2017 and 2019, the PET (physiologically equivalent temperature) index obtained from the RayMan model was used for data including hourly air temperature (°C), relative humidity (%), wind velocity (m/s), and cloud cover (octa). Daily air temperature data were also obtained. The relationship between PET values and air temperature and respiratory disease hospital admissions was analyzed by Pearson correlation analysis and linear regression analysis. Results The results revealed a very high negative correlation between both thermal comfort conditions (PET) and air temperature and respiratory diseases (p < 0.000). The results show that with an increase of 1 °C in thermal comfort conditions (PET), hospital admissions due to respiratory diseases will decrease by approximately 64 to 67 patients. It is predicted that the number of patients will decrease by approximately 89 to 94 with an increase of 1 °C in air temperature. Conclusion These findings can be informative and serve as guidance for decision-makers in efforts to protect public health, for preventive medicine studies, and for studies on the effects of climate change on human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Savaş Çağlak
- Republic of Turkey Ministry of National Education, Amasya City, Turkey
| | - Andreas Matzarakis
- Research Centre Human Biometeorology, Deutscher Wetterdienst, Stefan-Meier-Str. 4, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
El Azari H, Renard JB, Lauthier J, Dudok de Wit T. A Laboratory Evaluation of the New Automated Pollen Sensor Beenose: Pollen Discrimination Using Machine Learning Techniques. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:2964. [PMID: 36991674 PMCID: PMC10057867 DOI: 10.3390/s23062964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The monitoring of airborne pollen has received much attention over the last decade, as the prevalence of pollen-induced allergies is constantly increasing. Today, the most common technique to identify airborne pollen species and to monitor their concentrations is based on manual analysis. Here, we present a new, low-cost, real-time optical pollen sensor, called Beenose, that automatically counts and identifies pollen grains by performing measurements at multiple scattering angles. We describe the data pre-processing steps and discuss the various statistical and machine learning methods that have been implemented to distinguish different pollen species. The analysis is based on a set of 12 pollen species, several of which were selected for their allergic potency. Our results show that Beenose can provide a consistent clustering of the pollen species based on their size properties, and that pollen particles can be separated from non-pollen ones. More importantly, 9 out of 12 pollen species were correctly identified with a prediction score exceeding 78%. Classification errors occur for species with similar optical behaviour, suggesting that other parameters should be considered to provide even more robust pollen identification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Houssam El Azari
- LPC2E-CNRS, 3A Avenue de la Recherche Scientifique, CEDEX 2, 45071 Orléans, France
- LIFY-AIR, Le LAB’O, 1 Avenue du Champ de Mars, 45100 Orléans, France
| | - Jean-Baptiste Renard
- LPC2E-CNRS, 3A Avenue de la Recherche Scientifique, CEDEX 2, 45071 Orléans, France
| | - Johann Lauthier
- LIFY-AIR, Le LAB’O, 1 Avenue du Champ de Mars, 45100 Orléans, France
| | - Thierry Dudok de Wit
- LPC2E-CNRS, 3A Avenue de la Recherche Scientifique, CEDEX 2, 45071 Orléans, France
- ISSI, Hallerstrasse 6, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Shang M, Tang M, Xue Y. Neurodevelopmental toxicity induced by airborne particulate matter. J Appl Toxicol 2023; 43:167-185. [PMID: 35995895 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Airborne particulate matter (PM), the primary component associated with health risks in air pollution, can negatively impact human health. Studies have shown that PM can enter the brain by inhalation, but data on the exact quantity of particles that reach the brain are unknown. Particulate matter exposure can result in neurotoxicity. Exposure to PM poses a greater health risk to infants and children because their nervous systems are not fully developed. This review paper highlights the association between PM and neurodevelopmental toxicity (NDT). Exposure to PM can induce oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially resulting in blood-brain barrier damage and increased susceptibility to development of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD), such as autism spectrum disorders and attention deficit disorders. In addition, human and animal exposure to PM can induce microglia activation and epigenetic alterations and alter the neurotransmitter levels, which may increase risks for development of NDD. However, the systematic comparisons of the effects of PM on NDD at different ages of exposure are deficient. The elucidation of PM exposure risks and NDT in children during the early developmental stages are of great importance. The synthesis of current research may help to identify markers and mechanisms of PM-induced neurodevelopmental toxicity, allowing for the development of strategies to prevent permanent damage of developing brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Shang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Meng Tang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuying Xue
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Johnson DP. Population-Based Disparities in U.S. Urban Heat Exposure from 2003 to 2018. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12314. [PMID: 36231614 PMCID: PMC9566334 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown, in the United States (U.S.), that communities of color are exposed to significantly higher temperatures in urban environments than complementary White populations. Studies highlighting this disparity have generally been cross-sectional and are therefore "snapshots" in time. Using surface urban heat island (SUHI) intensity data, U.S. Census 2020 population counts, and a measure of residential segregation, this study performs a comparative analysis between census tracts identified as prevalent for White, Black, Hispanic and Asian populations and their thermal exposure from 2003 to 2018. The analysis concentrates on the top 200 most populous U.S. cities. SUHI intensity is shown to be increasing on average through time for the examined tracts. However, based on raw observations the increase is only statistically significant for White and Black prevalent census tracts. There is a 1.25 K to ~2.00 K higher degree of thermal exposure on average for communities of color relative to White prevalent areas. When examined on an inter-city basis, White and Black prevalent tracts had the largest disparity, as measured by SUHI intensity, in New Orleans, LA, by <6.00 K. Hispanic (>7.00 K) and Asian (<6.75 K) prevalent tracts were greatest in intensity in San Jose, CA. To further explore temporal patterns, two models were developed using a Bayesian hierarchical spatial temporal framework. One models the effect of varying the percentages of each population group relative to SUHI intensity within all examined tracts. Increases in percentages of Black, Hispanic, and Asian populations contributed to statistically significant increases in SUHI intensity. White increases in population percentage witnessed a lowering of SUHI intensity. Throughout all modeled tracts, there is a statistically significant 0.01 K per year average increase in SUHI intensity. A second model tests the effect of residential segregation on thermal inequity across all examined cities. Residential segregation, indeed, has a statistically significant positive association with SUHI intensity based on this portion of the analysis. Similarly, there is a statistically significant 0.01 K increase in average SUHI intensity per year for all cities. Results from this study can be used to guide and prioritize intervention strategies and further urgency related to social, climatic, and environmental justice concerns.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P Johnson
- Department of Geography, Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kanannejad Z, Shomali M, Esmaeilzadeh H, Nabavizadeh H, Nikaein K, Ghahramani Z, Ghatee MA, Alyasin S. Geoclimatic risk factors for childhood asthma hospitalization in southwest of Iran. Pediatr Pulmonol 2022; 57:2023-2031. [PMID: 35560812 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.25971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease resulting from a complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors. Among environmental factors, climatic and geographical variations have an important role in increasing asthma hospitalization. The current study aimed to investigate the effect of geoclimatic factors on the occurrence of childhood asthma hospitalization in Fars province, southwest Iran. METHOD We mapped the addresses of 211 hospitalized patients with childhood asthma (2016-2019) and investigated the effects of different temperature models, mean annual rainfall and humidity, number of frosty and rainy days, evaporation, slope, and land covers on the occurrence of childhood asthma hospitalization using a geographical information system. The Kriging and Spline methods have been used for generating interpolated models. Data were analyzed using logistic regression. RESULTS In the multivariate model, urban setting was recognized as the most important childhood asthma hospitalization predictor (p < 0.001, odds ration [OR] = 35.044, confidence interval [CI] = 9.096-135.018). The slope was considered the determinant of childhood asthma hospitalization when analyzed independently and its increase was associated with decreased childhood asthma hospitalization (p = 0.01, OR = 0.914, CI = 0.849-0.984). CONCLUSION In the current study, the urban setting was the most important risk factor associated with increased childhood asthma hospitalization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Kanannejad
- Allergy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Shomali
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Namazi Hospital, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hossein Esmaeilzadeh
- Allergy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Namazi Hospital, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hesamedin Nabavizadeh
- Allergy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Namazi Hospital, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Koorosh Nikaein
- Student Research Committee, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Zahra Ghahramani
- Allergy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Ghatee
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Soheila Alyasin
- Allergy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Namazi Hospital, Shiraz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Health Impacts of the Built and Social Environments, and Travel Behavior: The Case of the Sunshine State. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159102. [PMID: 35897467 PMCID: PMC9329847 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
As physical inactivity statistics for the U.S. population show an alarming trend, many health problems have been increasing among Americans in recent decades. Thus, identification of the factors that influence people’s physical activity levels and health outcomes has become ever more essential to promote public health. The built envSFironment is among the main factors that impact individuals’ health outcomes. However, little is known about the health impacts of built environment factors at large geographical scales such as those of the metropolitan area of residence. Further, the health impacts of travel behavior such as telecommuting and teleshopping remain unclear. This study uses an ecological model framework to probe the roles of travel behavior and built as well as social environments at different spatial levels in health. Instrumental variable binary probit models have been developed to examine the complex interlinks between measures of travel behavior, physical activity levels, built and social environment characteristics, and individuals’ health outcomes. Findings indicate that built and social environment factors at different spatial levels, including the metropolitan area, are correlated with individuals’ health outcomes. Additionally, the findings suggest that increased levels of telecommuting and teleshopping within communities may lead to unfavorable health outcomes. The findings shed light on the most promising policy interventions that can promote public health through modifications targeting people’s travel choices as well as the built and social environments within urban areas.
Collapse
|
15
|
Increasing Prevalence of Allergic Disease and Its Impact on Current Practice. CURRENT OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40136-022-00406-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
16
|
Hughes KM, Price D, Suphioglu C. Importance of allergen–environment interactions in epidemic thunderstorm asthma. Ther Adv Respir Dis 2022; 16:17534666221099733. [PMID: 35603956 PMCID: PMC9134402 DOI: 10.1177/17534666221099733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Australia is home to one of the highest rates of allergic rhinitis
worldwide. Commonly known as ‘hay fever’, this chronic condition
affects up to 30% of the population and is characterised by
sensitisation to pollen and fungal spores. Exposure to these
aeroallergens has been strongly associated with causing allergic
reactions and worsening asthma symptoms. Over the last few decades,
incidences of respiratory admissions have risen due to the increased
atmospheric concentration of airborne allergens. The fragmentation and
dispersion of these allergens is aided by environmental factors like
rainfall, temperature and interactions with atmospheric aerosols.
Extreme weather parameters, which continue to become more frequent due
to the impacts of climate change, have greatly fluctuated allergen
concentrations and led to epidemic thunderstorm asthma (ETSA) events
that have left hundreds, if not thousands, struggling to breathe.
While a link exists between airborne allergens, weather and
respiratory admissions, the underlying factors that influence these
epidemics remain unknown. It is important we understand the potential
threat these events pose on our susceptible populations and ensure our
health infrastructure is prepared for the next epidemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kira Morgan Hughes
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
- Deakin AIRwatch Pollen and Spore Counting and Forecasting Facility, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Dwan Price
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
- Deakin AIRwatch Pollen and Spore Counting and Forecasting Facility, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
- COVID-19 Response, Department of Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Cenk Suphioglu
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
- Deakin AIRwatch Pollen and Spore Counting and Forecasting Facility, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Deakin University, Waurn Ponds Campus, 75 Pidgons Road, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Lauletta M, Moisé E, La Grutta S, Cilluffo G, Piacentini G, Ferrante G, Peroni DG, Di Cicco M. Climate advocacy among Italian pediatric pulmonologists: A national survey on the effects of climate change on respiratory allergies. Pediatr Pulmonol 2022; 57:862-870. [PMID: 35060364 PMCID: PMC9303178 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.25842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Climate change (CC) is expected to negatively impact respiratory health due to air pollution and increased aeroallergen exposure. Children are among the most vulnerable populations due to high ventilation rates, small peripheral airways, and developing respiratory and immunological systems. To assess the current knowledge among Italian pediatric pulmonologists on the potential effects of CC on pediatric respiratory allergic diseases, a national survey was launched online from February 2020 to February 2021. The members of the Italian Pediatric Respiratory Society (SIMRI) were contacted by email and 117 questionnaires were returned (response rate 16.4%). 72.6% of respondents were females, 53.8% were academic pediatricians, 42.7% had been working >10 years. Most of the participants were aware of the potential health effects of CC and stated that they had noticed an increase in the incidence (90.6%) and severity (67.5%) of allergic respiratory diseases among their patients. About 61% and 41% of participants respectively felt that there had been an increase in the number of children sensitized to pollen and molds. When applying latent class analysis to identify the features characterizing participants with greater awareness and knowledge of CC-related health effects, two classes were identified: almost 60% of the participants were labeled as "poor knowledge" and those with greater awareness were older, had longer work experience, and were those using the Internet to gather information about CC. There is urgent need to increase pediatricians' awareness of the detrimental effects of CC on children's respiratory health and integrate them in the educational programs of healthcare professionals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcella Lauletta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Department of Maternal-Infantile Health, Pediatrics Unit, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Erika Moisé
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Department of Maternal-Infantile Health, Pediatrics Unit, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefania La Grutta
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanna Cilluffo
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Palermo, Italy.,Department of Earth and Marine Sciences, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giorgio Piacentini
- Pediatrics Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynaecology and Paediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giuliana Ferrante
- Pediatrics Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynaecology and Paediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Diego G Peroni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Department of Maternal-Infantile Health, Pediatrics Unit, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Di Cicco
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Department of Maternal-Infantile Health, Pediatrics Unit, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Savouré M, Bousquet J, Jaakkola JJK, Jaakkola MS, Jacquemin B, Nadif R. Worldwide prevalence of rhinitis in adults: A review of definitions and temporal evolution. Clin Transl Allergy 2022; 12:e12130. [PMID: 35344304 PMCID: PMC8967272 DOI: 10.1002/clt2.12130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Objective Methods Results Conclusions
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marine Savouré
- Université Paris‐Saclay UVSQ Univ. Paris‐Sud Inserm Equipe d’Epidémiologie Respiratoire Intégrative, CESP Villejuif France
- French Environment and Energy Management Agency Angers France
| | - Jean Bousquet
- Université Paris‐Saclay UVSQ Univ. Paris‐Sud Inserm Equipe d’Epidémiologie Respiratoire Intégrative, CESP Villejuif France
- Universitätsmedizin Berlin Humboldt‐Universität zu Berlin Berlin Germany
- Comprehensive Allergy Center Department of Dermatology and Allergy Berlin Institute of Health Berlin Germany
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Montpellier France
- MASK‐air Montpellier France
| | - Jouni J. K. Jaakkola
- Center for Environmental and Respiratory Health Research Faculty of Medicine University of Oulu Oulu Finland
- Medical Research Center Oulu (MRC Oulu) University of Oulu Oulu Finland
- Biocenter Oulu University of Oulu Oulu Finland
| | - Maritta S. Jaakkola
- Center for Environmental and Respiratory Health Research Faculty of Medicine University of Oulu Oulu Finland
- Medical Research Center Oulu (MRC Oulu) University of Oulu Oulu Finland
- Biocenter Oulu University of Oulu Oulu Finland
| | - Bénédicte Jacquemin
- Univ Rennes Inserm EHESP Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) ‐ UMR_S 1085 Rennes France
| | - Rachel Nadif
- Université Paris‐Saclay UVSQ Univ. Paris‐Sud Inserm Equipe d’Epidémiologie Respiratoire Intégrative, CESP Villejuif France
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Szewczyńska M, Dobrzyńska E, Pośniak M. Determination of phthalates in particulate matter and gaseous phase emitted in indoor air of offices. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:59319-59327. [PMID: 32960447 PMCID: PMC8541948 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-10195-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Phthalate esters (PAEs) are endocrine disrupters and can disrupt the functioning of different hormones, causing adverse effects on human health. Due to the potential exposure to phthalates in office rooms, their concentrations in the air of these premises after their renovation and furnishing were determined. The aim of the study was to determine the content of these compounds in the gas phase and adsorbed on the particles. Thus, the combined sampler with filters and adsorption tube was used for air sampling. Samples were analyzed by GC-MS. The gas fraction was dominated by dimethyl phthalate (DMP), diethyl phthalate (DEP), and the inhalable fraction by dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and 2-(diethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP). The total concentration of phthalates in the respirable fraction in the furnished rooms was as much as 92% of the phthalates determined in the inhalable fraction. In the rooms immediately after renovation and those arranged and used by employees for 7 months, their concentration in the respirable fraction did not exceed 25% of the phthalates in the inhalable fraction. Phthalate concentration in the renovated rooms after 7 months of their usage dropped by 84% in relation to PAEs concentration in newly arranged rooms and by 68% in relation to the phthalate concentration in empty rooms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Szewczyńska
- Department of Chemical Aerosol and Biological Hazards, Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute, Czerniakowska 16, 00-701, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Elżbieta Dobrzyńska
- Department of Chemical Aerosol and Biological Hazards, Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute, Czerniakowska 16, 00-701, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Pośniak
- Department of Chemical Aerosol and Biological Hazards, Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute, Czerniakowska 16, 00-701, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Cabrera M, Subiza J, Fernández-Caldas E, Garzón García B, Moreno-Grau S, Subiza JL. Influence of environmental drivers on allergy to pollen grains in a case study in Spain (Madrid): meteorological factors, pollutants, and airborne concentration of aeroallergens. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:53614-53628. [PMID: 34032952 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-14346-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to compare airborne levels of Phl p 1 and Phl p 5, with Poaceae pollen concentrations inside and outside of the pollen season, and to evaluate their association with symptoms in grass allergic patients and the influence of climate and pollution. The Hirst and the Burkard Cyclone samplers were used for pollen and allergen quantification, respectively. The sampling period ran from 23 March 2009 to 27 July 2010. Twenty-three patients with seasonal allergic asthma and rhinitis used an electronic symptom card. The aerosol was extracted and quantified for Phl p 1 and Phl p 5 content. Descriptive statistics, non-parametric paired contrast of Wilcoxon, Spearman's correlations, and a categorical principal component analysis (CatPCA) were carried out. Significant variations in pollen, aeroallergen levels, pollen allergen potency, and symptoms score were observed in this study. Phl p 5 pollen allergen potency was higher at the beginning of the 2010 grass pollen season. Presence of Phl p 1 outside the pollen season with positive O3 correlation was clinically relevant. 45.5% of the variance was explained by two dimensions in the CatPCA analysis, showing the symptom relationships dissociated in two dimensions. In the first one, the more important relationship was with grass pollen grains concentration and Phl p 5 and to a lesser extent with Phl p 1 and levels of NO2 and O3, and in the second dimension, symptoms were associated with humidity and SO2. Clinically relevant out-season Phl p 1 was found with a positive O3 correlation. The effect of climate and pollution may have contributed to the higher seasonal allergic rhinitis symptom score recorded in 2009.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martha Cabrera
- Servicio de Alergia, Hospital Los Madroños, Brunete, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | - Enrique Fernández-Caldas
- Inmunotek S.L., Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
- College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Belén Garzón García
- Unidad de Estadística, Secretaría Adjunta de Informática, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Stella Moreno-Grau
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química y Ambiental, Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena, Cartagena, Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Variability in expression profiles of Betulaceae spring pollen allergens in Central Europe region. Biologia (Bratisl) 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11756-021-00744-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
22
|
Kumar M, Chand S. MedHypChain: A patient-centered interoperability hyperledger-based medical healthcare system: Regulation in COVID-19 pandemic. JOURNAL OF NETWORK AND COMPUTER APPLICATIONS (ONLINE) 2021. [PMID: 34173429 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnca.2021.102995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Recently, an infectious disease, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has been reported in Wuhan, China, and spread worldwide within a couple of months. There have been seen an outbreak of COVID-19 in many countries, where the infected patients' rate overwhelmed the inadequate medical services. The push of patient-centered interoperability (PCI) from medical institution-centered interoperability may defeat the current and post resultant disease of the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper proposes a state-of-the-art privacy-preserving medical data sharing system based on Hyperledger Fabric (MedHypChain), where each transaction is secured via an Identity-based broadcast group signcryption scheme. We proved that MedHypChain achieves confidentiality, anonymity, traceability, and unforgeability. Besides, we regularize the MedHypChain to implement the PCI healthcare system, where the patient manages its health-related information in the blockchain that can be accessible to the authorized entity. We also use the Hyperledger caliber as a benchmark tool to analyze the performance of MedHypChain in three metrics (latency time, execution time, and throughput) for up to 20 permissioned nodes. Finally, we compare MedHypChain with related blockchain-based healthcare systems and found that the proposed scheme needs the least computation cost and communication cost and achieves all security features, such as authenticity, scalability, and access control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahender Kumar
- School of Computer and Systems Sciences, India
- Jawharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Satish Chand
- School of Computer and Systems Sciences, India
- Jawharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Pawankar R, Wang JY. Climate Change, Air Pollution, and Biodiversity in Asia Pacific and Impact on Respiratory Allergies. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am 2021; 41:63-71. [PMID: 33228873 DOI: 10.1016/j.iac.2020.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Allergic diseases are increasing globally. Air pollution, climate change, and reduced biodiversity are major threats to human health with detrimental effects on chronic noncommunicable diseases. Outdoor and indoor air pollution and climate change are increasing. Asia has experienced rapid economic growth, a deteriorating environment, and an increase in allergic diseases to epidemic proportions. Air pollutant levels in Asian countries are substantially higher than in developed countries. Moreover, industrial, traffic-related, and household biomass combustion and indoor pollutants from chemicals and tobacco are major sources of air pollutants. We highlight the major components of pollutants and their impacts on respiratory allergies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruby Pawankar
- Department of Pediatrics, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8603, Japan.
| | - Jiu-Yao Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Center for Allergy and Clinical Immunology Research (ACIR), College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Demain JG, Choi YJ, Oh JW. The Impact of Climate Change on the Pollen Allergy and Sporulation of Allergic Fungi. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN ALLERGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40521-020-00277-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
25
|
Paudel U, Pant KP. Estimation of household health cost and climate adaptation cost with its health related determinants: empirical evidences from western Nepal. Heliyon 2020; 6:e05492. [PMID: 33241153 PMCID: PMC7674302 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Limited evidence is available concerning the household-level costs of prevailing diseases and the potential cost of climate adaptation in Nepal. This study estimates these costs and assesses the relationships between prevalent diseases and climate adaptation at the household level using survey data from 420 households. An ingredients-based approach was used to estimate the cost of health and adaptation, and a Probit regression model was used to analyze the relationship between prevalent diseases and climate adaptation costs. Household direct curative costs are the highest among health cost components. Two-thirds of total health costs are direct costs for households. On average, 15.90% of household income is used for direct cost of health care. The climate hazard cost among afflicted households is estimated to be high. In addition, diseases like malaria, typhoid and jaundice, their costs, climate awareness program, droughts, family size and loss of per capita income are more likely to raise the cost of climate adaptation. The occurrence of gastritis, prevalence of diarrhea and cold waves are less likely to affect the cost. Policymakers should implement health financing schemes and adaptation strategies to prevent the loss of human health in western Nepal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Uttam Paudel
- Health and Environmental Economist, Tribhuvan University, Nepal
- Corresponding author.
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
The Impact of Climate Change on Pollen Season and Allergic Sensitization to Pollens. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am 2020; 41:97-109. [PMID: 33228876 DOI: 10.1016/j.iac.2020.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Pollens are a major cause of seasonal allergic diseases. Weather may alter the production of pollens. Increased atmospheric temperatures lead to earlier pollination of many plants and longer duration of pollination, resulting in extended pollen seasons, with early spring or late winter. Longer pollen seasons increase duration of exposure, resulting in more sensitization, and higher pollen concentrations may lead to more severe symptoms. Climate changes in contact to pollens may affect both allergic sensitization and symptom prevalence with severity. The future consequences of climate change, however, are speculative, because the influence on humans, is complex.
Collapse
|
27
|
Lu C, Norbäck D, Li Y, Deng Q. Early-life exposure to air pollution and childhood allergic diseases: an update on the link and its implications. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2020; 16:813-827. [PMID: 32741235 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2020.1804868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although mounting evidence has linked environmental factors with childhood allergies, some specific key issues still remain unclear: what is the main environmental factor? what is the critical timing window? And whether these contribute to the development of disease? AREAS COVERED This selective review summarizes recent epidemiological studies on the association between early-life exposure to indoor/outdoor air pollution and childhood allergic diseases. A literature search was conducted in the PubMed and Web of Science for peer-reviewed articles published until April 2020. Exposure to the traffic-related air pollutant, NO2, exposure during pregnancy and early postnatal periods is found to be associated with childhood allergies, and exposure during different trimesters causes different allergic diseases. However, exposure to classical air pollutants (PM10 and SO2) also contributes to childhood allergy in developing countries. In addition, early-life exposure to indoor renovation and mold/dampness significantly increases the risk of allergy in children. A synergistic effect between indoor and outdoor air pollution is found in the development of allergic diseases. EXPERT OPINION Early-life exposure to outdoor air pollution and indoor environmental factors plays an important role in the development of childhood allergic diseases, and the synergy between indoor and outdoor exposures increases allergy risk. The available findings support the hypothesis of the 'fetal origins of childhood allergy,' with new implications for the effective control and early prevention of childhood allergies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chan Lu
- XiangYa School of Public Health, Central South University , Changsha, China.,Hunan Engineering Research Center of Early Life Development and Disease Prevention, XiangYa Hospital, Central South University , Changsha, China
| | - Dan Norbäck
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University , Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Yuguo Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong , Hong Kong, China
| | - Qihong Deng
- XiangYa School of Public Health, Central South University , Changsha, China.,Hunan Engineering Research Center of Early Life Development and Disease Prevention, XiangYa Hospital, Central South University , Changsha, China.,School of Energy Science and Engineering, Central South University , Changsha, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Navel V, Chiambaretta F, Dutheil F. Will environmental impacts of social distancing due to the pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 decrease allergic disease? J Allergy Clin Immunol 2020; 146:70-71. [PMID: 32348792 PMCID: PMC7194819 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2020.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Valentin Navel
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, INSERM, GReD, Translational Approach to Epithelial Injury and Repair, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand, Ophthalmology, Clermont-Ferrand, France.
| | - Frédéric Chiambaretta
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, INSERM, GReD, Translational Approach to Epithelial Injury and Repair, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand, Ophthalmology, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Frédéric Dutheil
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, LaPSCo, Physiological and Psychosocial Stress, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand, Preventive and Occupational Medicine, Witty Fit, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Zhang H, Liu S, Chen Z, Zu B, Zhao Y. Effects of variations in meteorological factors on daily hospital visits for asthma: A time-series study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 182:109115. [PMID: 31923850 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 12/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Few studies have explored the relationships between meteorological factors and asthma. This study explored the associations between daily variations in meteorological factors and hospital visits for asthma among different ages, genders, and asthma subtypes in Shenyang, China. A distributed lag non-linear model with Poisson regression was used; confounding factors included day of the week, holidays, and seasonal patterns, and long-term trends and air pollutants were adjusted using natural cubic splines. The meteorological factor with the largest cumulative effect was barometric pressure, which increased the risk of hospital visits for adult asthma (relative risk [RR] = 2.414), followed by maximum wind speed, which increased hospital visits for asthma for children aged 0-5 years old (RR = 1.47), and pressure, which increased hospital visits for bronchial asthma (RR = 1.298). Meteorological factors showed stronger associations with asthma than air pollutants. Further research should focus more on the effects of meteorological factors on asthma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hehua Zhang
- Clinical Research Center, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Huaxiang Road No. 39, Tiexi District, Shenyang, China
| | - Shu Liu
- Department of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring Office, Environmental Monitoring Experiment Center of Liaoning Province, Shuang Road, No.30 A3, Hunnan District, Shenyang, China
| | - Zongjiao Chen
- Department of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring Office, Environmental Monitoring Experiment Center of Liaoning Province, Shuang Road, No.30 A3, Hunnan District, Shenyang, China
| | - Biao Zu
- Department of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring Office, Environmental Monitoring Experiment Center of Liaoning Province, Shuang Road, No.30 A3, Hunnan District, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuhong Zhao
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Shenjing Hospital of China Medical University, Sanhao Street, No. 36, Heping District, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Hardware Efficient Solutions for Wireless Air Pollution Sensors Dedicated to Dense Urban Areas. REMOTE SENSING 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/rs12050776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
This paper proposes novel solutions for the application of air pollution monitoring systems in so called ‘smart cities’. A possibility of the implementation of a relatively dense network of wireless air pollution sensors that can collect and process data in real time was the motive behind our research and investigations. We discuss the concept of the wireless sensor network, taking into account the structure of the urban development in cities and we present a novel signal processing algorithm that may be used to control the communication scheme between particular sensors and an external network. We placed a special emphasis on the computational complexity to facilitate the implementation directly at the transistor level of particular sensors. The algorithm was verified using real data obtained from air pollution sensors installed in Krakow, Poland. To ensure sufficient robustness of the variability of input data, we artificially added high amplitude noise to the real data we obtained. This paper demonstrates the performance of the algorithm. This algorithm allows for the reduction of the noise amplitude by 23 dB and enables a reduction of the number of wireless communication sessions with a base station (BS) by 70%–80%. We also present selected measurement results of a prototype current-mode digital-to-analogue converter to be used in the sensors, for signal resolutions up to 7 bits.
Collapse
|
31
|
Cordell GA. Cyberecoethnopharmacolomics. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 244:112134. [PMID: 31377262 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Development of a new term which describes the contemporary, composite, constituent sciences of ethnopharmacology. AIM OF THE STUDY To discuss the polysyllabic term cyberecoethnopharmacolomics in the context of the future of ethnopharmacology in global health care. MATERIALS AND METHODS Literature background and assessment from the prior literature, diverse databases, and personal discussions. RESULTS The profiles and literature background with contemporary and future thoughts regarding the concepts and practices of cyber-, eco-, ethno-, pharmacol-, and -omics, and their impact in ethnopharmacology for the future are presented in the context of integrated health care systems. CONCLUSIONS Ethnopharmacology has a major role to play in global health care if the relevant sciences and cutting-edge technologies can coalesce synergistically as a responsive, evidence-based health care practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey A Cordell
- Natural Products Inc., Evanston, IL, USA; Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Alexander M, Alexander J, Arora M, Slocum C, Middleton J. A bellweather for climate change and disability: educational needs of rehabilitation professionals regarding disaster management and spinal cord injuries. Spinal Cord Ser Cases 2019; 5:94. [PMID: 31754472 PMCID: PMC6858313 DOI: 10.1038/s41394-019-0239-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Study design Cross-sectional survey. Objective Persons with disabilities are disproportionately impacted by extreme weather disasters and climate change. Individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) are especially at risk due to inability to control their body temperature and mobility concerns. We surveyed rehabilitation professionals in the field of SCI to determine their experiences, concerns and educational needs regarding natural disasters, climate change and sustainability and the effects on their clientele. Setting Online survey available to an international cohort. Methods The survey was developed by the authors and conducted in 2019. It was distributed amongst various international health care organizations whose members care for persons with SCI. Descriptive statistics and chi-square test for association were performed using Microsoft Excel 2016. Results Of 125 respondents, 50% were from Europe, 18% from North America, and 18% from Asia; 74% were physicians and 13% physical therapists. In total 57.6% believed climate change had impacted their client's health and well-being. Respondents from North America were significantly less likely to report climate change had an impact on their patient's health than those from Asia or Europe (p < 0.01). In total 82.5% of respondents thought professionals should be concerned with sustainability and 85.5% were interested in further education. Conclusions Most respondents acknowledged a need for more information related to the disasters, climate change, and disability. Results underscore the need for further research, professional, and consumer education.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcalee Alexander
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard School of Medicine, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Charlestown, MA USA
- Telerehabilitation International, Birmingham, AL USA
| | | | - Mohit Arora
- John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research, Sydney Medical School, Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Chloe Slocum
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard School of Medicine, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Charlestown, MA USA
| | - James Middleton
- John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research, Sydney Medical School, Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
- State Spinal Cord Injury Service, NSW Agency for Clinical Innovation, Sydney, NSW Australia
- NSW Spinal Outreach Service, Royal Rehab, Sydney, NSW Australia
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Kim J, Lee JY. Synoptic approach to evaluate the effect of temperature on pediatric respiratory disease-related hospitalization in Seoul, Korea. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 178:108650. [PMID: 31450148 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The spatial synoptic classification (SSC) scheme is a daily weather-type classification scheme that is widely used in climatological and epidemiological investigations. We investigated the modification effect of temperature on respiratory disease-related hospital admissions (RAs) in children based on the SSC type. METHODS Data on RAs among children aged ≤19 years were collected from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database between 2011 and 2015 in Seoul, Korea. In this time-series study, we used Poisson generalized linear models allowing for over-dispersion, with stratification by season and each of the seven distinctive SSC types (Dry moderate [DM], Dry polar [DP], Dry tropical [DT], Moist moderate [MM], Moist polar [MP], Moist tropical [MT], and Transition [T]). We investigated the modification effects of temperature by SSC type through seasonal stratification, adjusting for other meteorological conditions, air pollution, and time trends, and considered the delayed effect for up to four consecutive days. We reported the relative risk percentage change with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of RAs for every 1 °C increase in ambient temperature, by season and SSC type. RESULTS Of the 8346 RAs overall investigated between 2011 and 2015, there were 5271 [63.2%] RAs in children aged 0-4 years. Overall, on majority of the days, the SSC types were DM (665 days [36.4%]), and DP (371 days [20.3%]). With regard to seasons, the different SSC types were distributed as follows: spring, DM (193 days [42.0%]); summer, MT (193 days [42.0%]); fall, DM (241 days [53.0%]); and winter, DP (228 days [50.6%]). A stronger association between RAs and temperature was observed overall (1.28% [95% CI; 0.04%, 2.53%]), and in spring (2.10% [0.62%, 3.60%]). According to SSC type, increased associations between RAs and temperature were detected with DM (2.20% [0.47%, 3.97%]) condition during spring and DT (2.41% [0.22%, 4.64%]) during fall. In addition, on re-categorizing the SSC types from a temperature or humidity standpoint, a modified association was observed especially in children aged ≤4 years and 5-9 years during spring. CONCLUSIONS Using temperature variability to distinguish seasonal characteristics, we found that the relationship between temperature and RAs in children varied by SSC type. Application of the SSC scheme as an integrative approach may assist in gaining an understanding of seasonal characteristics and health effects due to temperature change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jayeun Kim
- Institute of Health and Environment, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Jin Yong Lee
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Seoul Metropolitan Government-Seoul National University (SMG-SNU) Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Health Policy and Management, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Bonomo S, Ferrante G, Palazzi E, Pelosi N, Lirer F, Viegi G, La Grutta S. Evidence for a link between the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation and annual asthma mortality rates in the US. Sci Rep 2019; 9:11683. [PMID: 31406172 PMCID: PMC6690970 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-48178-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
An association between climatic conditions and asthma mortality has been widely assumed. However, it is unclear whether climatic variations have a fingerprint on asthma dynamics over long time intervals. The aim of this study is to detect a possible correlation between climatic indices, namely the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation and Pacific Decadal Oscillation, and asthma mortality rates over the period from 1950 to 2015 in the contiguous US. To this aim, an analysis of non-stationary and non-linear signals was performed on time series of US annual asthma mortality rates, AMO and PDO indices to search for characteristic periodicities. Results revealed that asthma death rates evaluated for four different age groups (5-14 yr; 15-24 yr; 25-34 yr; 35-44 yr) share the same pattern of fluctuation throughout the 1950-2015 time interval, but different trends, i.e. a positive (negative) trend for the two youngest (oldest) categories. Annual asthma death rates turned out to be correlated with the dynamics of the AMO, and also modulated by the PDO, sharing the same averaged ∼44 year-periodicity. The results of the current study suggest that, since climate patterns have proved to influence asthma mortality rates, they could be advisable in future studies aimed at elucidating the complex relationships between climate and asthma mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Bonomo
- Istituto per la Ricerca e l'Innovazione Biomedica, National Research Council (CNR-IRIB), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy
- Institute for Marine Sciences, National Research Council (CNR-ISMAR), Calata Porta di Massa, 80133, Napoli, Italy
- National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV), Via della Faggiola 32, 52126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giuliana Ferrante
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la Promozione della Salute, Materno-Infantile, di Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro", University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Elisa Palazzi
- Institute of Atmospheric Sciences and Climate, National Research Council (CNR-ISAC), Corso Fiume 4, I-10133, Torino, Italy
| | - Nicola Pelosi
- Institute for Marine Sciences, National Research Council (CNR-ISMAR), Calata Porta di Massa, 80133, Napoli, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Lirer
- Institute for Marine Sciences, National Research Council (CNR-ISMAR), Calata Porta di Massa, 80133, Napoli, Italy
| | - Giovanni Viegi
- Istituto per la Ricerca e l'Innovazione Biomedica, National Research Council (CNR-IRIB), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy
| | - Stefania La Grutta
- Istituto per la Ricerca e l'Innovazione Biomedica, National Research Council (CNR-IRIB), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Pham MN, Wang J. Management of food allergies and asthma in schools. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2019; 121:391-399. [PMID: 30290894 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2018.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Revised: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michele N Pham
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, The Elliot and Roslyn Jaffe Food Allergy Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Kravis Children's Hospital, New York, New York
| | - Julie Wang
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, The Elliot and Roslyn Jaffe Food Allergy Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Kravis Children's Hospital, New York, New York.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Pawankar R. Climate change, air pollution, and biodiversity in Asia Pacific: impact on allergic diseases. Asia Pac Allergy 2019; 9:e11. [PMID: 31089453 PMCID: PMC6494653 DOI: 10.5415/apallergy.2019.9.e11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ruby Pawankar
- Department of Pediatrics, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Damialis A, Häring F, Gökkaya M, Rauer D, Reiger M, Bezold S, Bounas-Pyrros N, Eyerich K, Todorova A, Hammel G, Gilles S, Traidl-Hoffmann C. Human exposure to airborne pollen and relationships with symptoms and immune responses: Indoors versus outdoors, circadian patterns and meteorological effects in alpine and urban environments. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 653:190-199. [PMID: 30408667 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.10.366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Revised: 10/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Pollen exposure is a major cause of respiratory allergies worldwide. However, it is unclear how everyday exposure is related to symptoms and how allergic patients may be affected spatially and temporally. Hence, we investigated the relationship of pollen, symptoms and immune responses under a controlled regime of 'high-low-moderate' pollen exposure in urban versus alpine environment. The research was conducted in 2016 in two locations in Germany: urban Augsburg (494 m) and Schneefernerhaus (UFS) on Zugspitze mountain (2656 m). Monitoring of airborne pollen took place using Hirst-type volumetric traps. On UFS, both indoor and outdoor samples were taken. Grass pollen allergic human volunteers were monitored daily during the peak of the grass pollen season, in Augsburg, on UFS, then again in Augsburg. Nasal biosamples were obtained throughout the study to investigate immune responses. All symptoms decreased significantly during the stay on UFS and remained low even after the return to Augsburg. The same was observed for nasal total IgE and IgM levels and for nasal type 2 cytokines and chemokines. Augsburg showed higher pollen concentrations than those on UFS. At all sites, pollen were present throughout each day, but were more abundant in Augsburg during morning. On UFS, outdoor pollen levels were up to 6-fold higher than those indoors. Nasal, ocular and pulmonary symptoms correlated with current and previous days' pollen concentrations and relative humidity. Stays in low-exposure environments during the peak pollen season can be an efficient means of reducing allergic symptoms and immune responses. However, in alpine environments, even occasional pollen exposure during short intervals may still trigger symptoms because of the additional environmental stress posed onto allergics. This highlights the need for the consideration of additional environmental factors, apart from symptom diaries and immune responses, so as to efficiently predict high-risk allergy periods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Athanasios Damialis
- Chair and Institute of Environmental Medicine, UNIKA-T, Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Augsburg, Germany.
| | - Franziska Häring
- Chair and Institute of Environmental Medicine, UNIKA-T, Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Mehmet Gökkaya
- Chair and Institute of Environmental Medicine, UNIKA-T, Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Denise Rauer
- Chair and Institute of Environmental Medicine, UNIKA-T, Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Reiger
- Chair and Institute of Environmental Medicine, UNIKA-T, Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Bezold
- Chair and Institute of Environmental Medicine, UNIKA-T, Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Nikolaos Bounas-Pyrros
- Chair and Institute of Environmental Medicine, UNIKA-T, Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Kilian Eyerich
- Department of Dermatology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Antonia Todorova
- Chair and Institute of Environmental Medicine, UNIKA-T, Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Gertrud Hammel
- Chair and Institute of Environmental Medicine, UNIKA-T, Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Gilles
- Chair and Institute of Environmental Medicine, UNIKA-T, Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Traidl-Hoffmann
- Chair and Institute of Environmental Medicine, UNIKA-T, Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Augsburg, Germany; Christine Kühne Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK Care), Davos, Switzerland; Outpatient Clinic for Environmental Medicine, Klinikum Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Kuruvilla ME, Vanijcharoenkarn K, Shih JA, Lee FEH. Epidemiology and risk factors for asthma. Respir Med 2019; 149:16-22. [PMID: 30885424 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2019.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 01/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Merin E Kuruvilla
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Emory University, USA.
| | | | - Jennifer A Shih
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Emory University, USA
| | - Frances Eun-Hyung Lee
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Emory University, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Olaniyan T, Dalvie MA, Röösli M, Naidoo R, Künzli N, de Hoogh K, Parker B, Leaner J, Jeebhay M. Asthma-related outcomes associated with indoor air pollutants among schoolchildren from four informal settlements in two municipalities in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. INDOOR AIR 2019; 29:89-100. [PMID: 30339304 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Revised: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The health impact of indoor air pollution in informal settlement households has not been extensively studied in South Africa. This cross-sectional study investigated the association between asthma and common indoor exposures among schoolchildren from four informal settlements located in two municipalities in the Western Cape Province. A total of 590 children, aged 9-11 years, were recruited. The International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire was administered to caregivers. Pulmonary function assessment included spirometry and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO). Phadiatop test for atopy was done. The prevalence of doctor-diagnosed asthma was 3.4% (n = 20) among whom only 50% were on treatment. The prevalence of current wheeze was 12.9%, and 17.6% had airway obstruction (FEV1 < lower limit of normal), while 10.2% had airway inflammation (FeNO > 35 ppb). In adjusted logistic regression models, dampness, visible mold growth, paraffin use for cooking, and passive smoking were associated with a twofold to threefold increased risk in upper and lower airway outcomes. The strongest association was that of visible mold growth with rhinitis (adjusted odds ratio-aOR 3.37, 95% CI: 1.69-6.71). Thus, there is a need for improved diagnosis of childhood asthma and Indoor Air Quality in informal settlement households.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Toyib Olaniyan
- Centre for Environmental and Occupational Health Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mohamed Aqiel Dalvie
- Centre for Environmental and Occupational Health Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Martin Röösli
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rajen Naidoo
- University of Kwazulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Nino Künzli
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kees de Hoogh
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Bhawoodien Parker
- Department of Environmental Affairs and Developmental Planning, Western Cape Government, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Joy Leaner
- Department of Environmental Affairs and Developmental Planning, Western Cape Government, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mohamed Jeebhay
- Centre for Environmental and Occupational Health Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Occupational Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Mustafa S. Heating-induced contraction in airways smooth muscle: A possible causative factor of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2018; 259:162-165. [PMID: 30412771 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2018.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Revised: 11/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Asthmatic patients often suffer from bronchoconstriction or asthma following breathing hot air or exposure to exercise due to raises the core body temperature. However, the direct effect of heating airways has not been studied yet. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of heating on tracheal and bronchiolar smooth muscles. Isolated ovine tracheal strips and bronchiolar segments preparations were suspended in organ baths containing Krebs' solution for isometric tension recording. Tissues responses were examined during decreasing and elevating baths temperature (20 °C, 40 °C-45 °C and 50 °C). Cooling or heating induced rapid and reproducible contractions proportional with decreasing or increasing temperature respectively in tracheal and bronchiolar preparations. On reset to 37 °C the tone returned rapidly to basal level. Changing the bath's temperature from 37 °C to 20 °C or to 40 °C and 45 °C for tracheal strips or to 45 °C and 50 °C for bronchiolar segments induced contractions in both preparations. Changing the temperature below or above the normal body temperature (37 °C), leads to airways contractions. Heating induced contractions in tracheal and bronchiolar smooth muscle proportional to the heating temperature. Therefore, breathing hot air or elevation of body core temperature due to exercise can be considered possible causative factor of heating- or exercise-induced bronchoconstriction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seham Mustafa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Nursing, Public Authority for Applied Education & Training, Kuwait.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Lage SM, Jácome C, Oliveira A, Araújo AG, Pereira DAG, Parreira VF. Validation of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Core Set for obstructive pulmonary diseases in the perspective of adults with asthma. Disabil Rehabil 2018; 42:86-92. [PMID: 30264588 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2018.1493159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: To validate the Comprehensive and Brief International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Core Sets for obstructive pulmonary diseases from the perspective of adults with asthma.Methods: This was a qualitative, cross-sectional study. Individual interviews with questions related to the disease and its impact on the patient's life were performed. The meaning condensation procedure was used for analysis.Results: Thirty-five participants (26 females, 41 ± 13 years old) were interviewed. A total of 405 concepts were identified, and 348 were associated to the components Body Functions (n = 168), Body Structures (n = 22), Activities and Participation (n = 33), Environmental Factors (n = 125). These concepts were linked to 61 categories: second level (n = 25), third level (n = 33), fourth level (n = 3), which confirmed 41% and 77% of those included in the Comprehensive and Brief Core Sets, respectively. Twenty-four additional categories were identified, and 57 concepts could not be linked to the classification.Conclusions: The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Core Sets for obstructive pulmonary diseases were supported by the perspective of adults with asthma. The Brief version seemed the best reference for rehabilitation, reflecting the typical disabilities and impairments of these patients. Unconfirmed and added categories have been reported, and their analysis may assist future document updates.Implications for rehabilitationThe use of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Core Sets for Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases is relevant to guide patient assessment, treatment and monitoring.The concepts related to the Body functions and Environmental factors were the most relevant according to the perspective of adults with asthma.The Comprehensive and Brief International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Core Sets for Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases were supported by adults with asthma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan Martins Lage
- Rehabilitation Sciences Post Graduation Program, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Cristina Jácome
- CINTESIS - Center for Health Technologies and Information Systems Research, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Lab 3R - Respiratory Research and Rehabilitation Laboratory School of Health Sciences (ESSUA), Universidade de Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ana Oliveira
- Lab 3R - Respiratory Research and Rehabilitation Laboratory School of Health Sciences (ESSUA), Universidade de Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal.,Institute for Research in Biomedicine (iBiMED), Universidade de Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW A warming world will impact everyone and everything. The practice of allergic and respiratory disease will not be excepted. All the impacts will be impossible to anticipate. This review is intended to discuss significant factors related to individuals with allergic and respiratory disease. RECENT FINDINGS Recent findings include the increased growth of allergenic plants in response to higher carbon dioxide levels and warmer temperatures. This also contributes to the increased production of pollen as well as the appearance of allergenic species in new climactic areas. Stinging insects will extend their ranges into northern areas where they have not previously been a problem. The shift and extension of pollen seasons with warmer springs and later frosts have already been observed. Recent severe hurricanes and flooding events may be just the harbinger of increasing damp housing exposure related to sea level rise. Evidence is accumulating that indicates the expected higher number of ozone alert days and increased pollution in populated areas is bringing increases in pollen potency. Finally, increased exposure to smoke and particles from wild fires, resulting from heat waves, will contribute to the general increase in respiratory disease. The practice of allergy being closely aligned with environmental conditions will be especially impacted. Allergists should consider increasing educational activities aimed at making patients more aware of air quality conditions.
Collapse
|
43
|
Sierra-Heredia C, North M, Brook J, Daly C, Ellis AK, Henderson D, Henderson SB, Lavigne É, Takaro TK. Aeroallergens in Canada: Distribution, Public Health Impacts, and Opportunities for Prevention. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:E1577. [PMID: 30044421 PMCID: PMC6121311 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15081577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Aeroallergens occur naturally in the environment and are widely dispersed across Canada, yet their public health implications are not well-understood. This review intends to provide a scientific and public health-oriented perspective on aeroallergens in Canada: their distribution, health impacts, and new developments including the effects of climate change and the potential role of aeroallergens in the development of allergies and asthma. The review also describes anthropogenic effects on plant distribution and diversity, and how aeroallergens interact with other environmental elements, such as air pollution and weather events. Increased understanding of the relationships between aeroallergens and health will enhance our ability to provide accurate information, improve preventive measures and provide timely treatments for affected populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Michelle North
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3H7, Canada.
- Department of Biomedical & Molecular Sciences and Division of Allergy & Immunology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada.
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, ON K7L 2V7, Canada.
| | - Jeff Brook
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M3H 5T4, Canada.
| | - Christina Daly
- Air Quality Health Index, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada.
| | - Anne K Ellis
- Department of Biomedical & Molecular Sciences and Division of Allergy & Immunology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada.
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, ON K7L 2V7, Canada.
| | - Dave Henderson
- Health and Air Quality Services, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Gatineau, QC K1A 0H3, Canada.
| | - Sarah B Henderson
- Environmental Health Services, BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4R4, Canada.
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Éric Lavigne
- Air Health Science Division, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada.
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1G 5Z3, Canada.
| | - Tim K Takaro
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Hew M, Sutherland M, Thien F, O'Hehir R. The Melbourne thunderstorm asthma event: can we avert another strike? Intern Med J 2018; 47:485-487. [PMID: 28503876 DOI: 10.1111/imj.13413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Revised: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Hew
- Allergy, Asthma and Clinical Immunology, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Sutherland
- Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Francis Thien
- Respiratory Medicine, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robyn O'Hehir
- Allergy, Clinical Immunology and Respiratory Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Investigating Youth Sport Coach Perspectives of an Asthma Education Module. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 2018:2512010. [PMID: 29971114 PMCID: PMC6008624 DOI: 10.1155/2018/2512010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Physical activity can reduce symptoms and improve wellbeing in people who have asthma, and organized sport is one way for children and youth with asthma to engage in exercise. While asthmatic youth may experience a number of barriers to sport participation, healthy physical and social sport environments supported by coaches can help asthmatic youth athletes maintain long-term engagement in activity. This paper reports results of an assessment of an online coach education tool related to air quality, physical activity, and allergic disease (e.g., asthma). Focus groups with youth team sport coaches in southern Ontario (n = 12 participants) were conducted to explore how users experience the module and short- and medium-term outcomes of implementation. Although coaches perceive the module as relevant, it is considered less valuable in certain contexts (e.g., indoor environments) or when compared with other coach education (e.g., tactical). Although broad asthma management behaviours (e.g., athlete medical forms) were recognized, specific module-identified prevention and management techniques (e.g., the Air Quality Health Index) were less frequently described. Ensuring environment and health coach education emphasizes athlete performance while reducing risk is critical to promoting module application and providing safe and enjoyable youth team sport spaces.
Collapse
|
46
|
Müller A, Ráthonyi G, Bíró M, Ráthonyi-Ódor K, Bács Z, Ács P, Hegyi G, Bácsné Bába É. The effect of complex climate therapy on rehabilitation results of elderly asthmatic and chronic obstructive airways disease (COPD) patients. Eur J Integr Med 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2018.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
|
47
|
The Association Between Ambient Air Pollution and Allergic Rhinitis Inception and Control. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN ALLERGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s40521-018-0162-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
|
48
|
A Review of Airborne Particulate Matter Effects on Young Children’s Respiratory Symptoms and Diseases. ATMOSPHERE 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos9040150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
49
|
Demain JG. Climate Change and the Impact on Respiratory and Allergic Disease: 2018. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2018; 18:22. [PMID: 29574605 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-018-0777-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this paper is to review allergic respiratory disease related to indoor and outdoor exposures and to examine the impact of known and projected changes in climate. The global burden of disease directly attributed to climate change is very difficult to measure and becomes more challenging when the capacity of humans to adapt to these changes is taken into consideration. Allergic respiratory disease, such as asthma, is quite heterogenous, though closely associated with environmental and consequently immunologic interaction. Where is the tipping point? RECENT FINDINGS Our climate has been measurably changing for the past 100 years. It may indeed be the most significant health threat of the twenty-first century, and consequently tackling climate change may be the greatest health opportunity. The impacts of climate change on human health are varied and coming more into focus. Direct effects, such as heatwaves, severe weather, drought, and flooding, are apparent and frequently in the news. Indirect or secondary effects, such as changes in ecosystems and the impact on health, are less obvious. It is these changes in ecosystems that may have the greatest impact on allergic and respiratory diseases. This review will explore some ways that climate change, current and predicted, influences respiratory disease. Discussion will focus on changing pollen patterns, damp buildings with increased mold exposure, air pollution, and heat stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey G Demain
- Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Center of Alaska, 3841 Piper Street, Suite T4-054, Anchorage, AK, 99508, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, 3841 Piper Street, Suite T4-054, Anchorage, AK, 99508, USA. .,WWAMI School of Medical Education, University of Alaska, 3841 Piper Street, Suite T4-054, Anchorage, AK, 99508, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Bose S, Romero K, Psoter KJ, Curriero FC, Chen C, Johnson CM, Kaji D, Breysse PN, Williams DL, Ramanathan M, Checkley W, Hansel NN. Association of traffic air pollution and rhinitis quality of life in Peruvian children with asthma. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0193910. [PMID: 29561906 PMCID: PMC5862476 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0193910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Air pollution exposure may contribute to rhinoconjunctivitis morbidity in children with underlying airways disease. Prior studies have not assessed rhinoconjunctivitis-related quality of life (QOL) in children with asthma chronically exposed to air pollution. Methods Children ages 9–19 years with asthma from peri-urban Peru, self-reporting rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms (n = 484), were administered the Rhinoconjunctivitis QOL Questionnaire (RQLQ) at repeated intervals over one year, with scores dichotomized into bothered (>0) and not bothered (= 0). Individual weekly exposures to particulate matter<2.5μm (PM2.5) and its black carbon (BC) component were estimated by inverse distance weighted methods. Generalized estimating equations, adjusting for covariates, estimated associations of PM2.5 and BC with QOL. Results Participants were on average 13 years old, 55% female, and majority were atopic (77%). Mean (SD) PM2.5 and BC concentrations were 21(3.2) μg/m3 and 4.4(1.5) μg/m3, respectively. In adjusted multi-pollutant models, each 10μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 was associated with increased odds of worse rhinoconjunctivitis QOL (OR;[95% CI]: 1.83;[1.33,2.52]). A 10% increase in the BC proportion was associated with higher rhinitis burden (OR;[95% CI]: 1.80;[1.22,2.66]), while increases in the non-BC component of PM did not significantly impact rhinoconjunctivitis QOL. Associations were similar regardless of atopy. Conclusion Higher PM2.5 and BC exposure is associated with worse rhinitis QOL among asthmatic children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonali Bose
- Johns Hopkins Department of Medicine—Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, the GASP investigators, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Karina Romero
- Johns Hopkins Department of Medicine—Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Kevin J. Psoter
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health—Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics—Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Frank C. Curriero
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health—Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Chen Chen
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health—Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Caroline M. Johnson
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Deepak Kaji
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, the GASP investigators, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Patrick N. Breysse
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health—Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - D’Ann L. Williams
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health—Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Murugappan Ramanathan
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Department of Otolaryngology—Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - William Checkley
- Johns Hopkins Department of Medicine—Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health—Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Nadia N. Hansel
- Johns Hopkins Department of Medicine—Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health—Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|