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Schaller M, Walker B, Nabhani S, Odon A, Riel S, Jäckel A. Activity of amorolfine or ciclopirox in combination with terbinafine against pathogenic fungi in onychomycosis-Results of an in vitro investigation. Mycoses 2024; 67:e13710. [PMID: 38414346 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Onychomycoses are difficult-to-treat fungal infections with high relapse rates. Combining oral and topical antifungal drugs is associated with higher success rates. Additive or synergistic modes of action are expected to enhance treatment success rates. OBJECTIVES Investigation of the combined effects of antifungal drugs in vitro with different modes of action and application on clinical isolates from mycotic nails. METHODS Isolates of Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton interdigitale and Scopulariopsis brevicaulis were collected from infected toenail specimens of patients with onychomycosis. Susceptibility testing was performed in 96-well polystyrene plates using a standard stepwise microdilution protocol. Additive or synergistic activity at varying concentrations was investigated by the checkerboard method. RESULTS Combining terbinafine with amorolfine tended to be more effective than terbinafine in conjunction with ciclopirox. In most combinations, additive effects were observed. Synergy was detected in combinations with involving amorolfine in S. brevicaulis. These additive and synergistic interactions indicate that combined therapy with topical amorolfine and oral terbinafine is justified. Sublimation of amorolfine (and terbinafine) may enhance the penetration in and through the nail plate, and support treatment efficacy. CONCLUSIONS These in vitro results support the notion that combining oral terbinafine and topical amorolfine is beneficial to patients with onychomycosis, particularly if the pathogen is a non-dermatophyte fungus such as S. brevicaulis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Schaller
- Department of Dermatology, Eberhard-Karls University Hospital, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Birgit Walker
- Department of Dermatology, Eberhard-Karls University Hospital, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Schafiq Nabhani
- Medical and Regulatory Department, Galderma Laboratorium GmbH, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Astrid Odon
- Department of Dermatology, Eberhard-Karls University Hospital, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Simon Riel
- Department of Dermatology, Eberhard-Karls University Hospital, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Andreas Jäckel
- Medical and Regulatory Department, Galderma Laboratorium GmbH, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Murphy J, Tharumakunarajah R, Holden KA, King C, Lee AR, Rose K, Hawcutt DB, Sinha IP. Impact of indoor environment on children's pulmonary health. Expert Rev Respir Med 2023; 17:1249-1259. [PMID: 38240133 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2024.2307561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A child's living environment has a significant impact on their respiratory health, with exposure to poor indoor air quality (IAQ) contributing to potentially lifelong respiratory morbidity. These effects occur throughout childhood, from the antenatal period through to adolescence. Children are particularly susceptible to the effects of environmental insults, and children living in socioeconomic deprivation globally are more likely to breathe air both indoors and outdoors, which poses an acute and long-term risk to their health. Adult respiratory health is, at least in part, determined by exposures and respiratory system development in childhood, starting in utero. AREAS COVERED This narrative review will discuss, from a global perspective, what contributes to poor IAQ in the child's home and school environment and the impact that indoor air pollution exposure has on respiratory health throughout the different stages of childhood. EXPERT OPINION All children have the right to a living and educational environment without the threat of pollution affecting their health. Action is needed at multiple levels to address this pressing issue to improve lifelong respiratory health. Such action should incorporate a child's rights-based approach, empowering children, and their families, to have access to clean air to breathe in their living environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared Murphy
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Karl A Holden
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Lab to Life Child Health Data Centre, Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool, UK
| | - Charlotte King
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Alice R Lee
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Lab to Life Child Health Data Centre, Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool, UK
| | - Katie Rose
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Daniel B Hawcutt
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- NIHR Alder Hey Clinical Research Facility, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Ian P Sinha
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
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Sadenova M, Kulenova N, Gert S, Beisekenov N, Levin E. Innovative Approaches for Improving the Quality and Resilience of Spring Barley Seeds: The Role of Nanotechnology and Phytopathological Analysis. Plants (Basel) 2023; 12:3892. [PMID: 38005790 PMCID: PMC10674453 DOI: 10.3390/plants12223892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
This study emphasizes the importance of seed quality in the context of yield formation. Based on the research data, this paper emphasizes the role of proper diagnosis of seed-borne pathogens in ensuring high and stable grain yields. Particular attention is paid to the study of the effect of the treatment of mother plants with fullerenol-based nanopreparations on the qualitative characteristics of spring barley seeds. The results showed that such treatment contributes to the increase in varietal purity, weight of 1000 grains as well as to the increase of nutrient and moisture reserves in seeds. Phytopathological analysis confirmed the presence of various diseases such as Alternaria, helminthosporiosis, fusarium, mold and mildew on the seeds. However, some samples showed a high resistance to pathogens, presumably due to the use of carbon nanopreparations. These results open new perspectives for the development of strategies to improve barley yield and disease resistance through seed optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzhan Sadenova
- Priority Department Centre «Veritas» D. Serikbayev, East Kazakhstan Technical University, Ust-Kamenogorsk 070000, Kazakhstan; (M.S.); (N.K.); (S.G.); (N.B.)
| | - Natalya Kulenova
- Priority Department Centre «Veritas» D. Serikbayev, East Kazakhstan Technical University, Ust-Kamenogorsk 070000, Kazakhstan; (M.S.); (N.K.); (S.G.); (N.B.)
| | - Sergey Gert
- Priority Department Centre «Veritas» D. Serikbayev, East Kazakhstan Technical University, Ust-Kamenogorsk 070000, Kazakhstan; (M.S.); (N.K.); (S.G.); (N.B.)
| | - Nail Beisekenov
- Priority Department Centre «Veritas» D. Serikbayev, East Kazakhstan Technical University, Ust-Kamenogorsk 070000, Kazakhstan; (M.S.); (N.K.); (S.G.); (N.B.)
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Niigata University, Niigata 950-2181, Japan
| | - Eugene Levin
- Priority Department Centre «Veritas» D. Serikbayev, East Kazakhstan Technical University, Ust-Kamenogorsk 070000, Kazakhstan; (M.S.); (N.K.); (S.G.); (N.B.)
- School of Applied Computational Sciences, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
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El Jaddaoui I, Ghazal H, Bennett JW. Mold in Paradise: A Review of Fungi Found in Libraries. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1061. [PMID: 37998867 PMCID: PMC10672585 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Libraries contain a large amount of organic material, frequently stored with inadequate climate control; thus, mold growth represents a considerable threat to library buildings and their contents. In this essay, we review published papers that have isolated microscopic fungi from library books, shelving, walls, and other surfaces, as well as from air samples within library buildings. Our literature search found 54 published studies about mold in libraries, 53 of which identified fungi to genus and/or species. In 28 of the 53 studies, Aspergillus was the single most common genus isolated from libraries. Most of these studies used traditional culture and microscopic methods for identifying the fungi. Mold damage to books and archival holdings causes biodeterioration of valuable educational and cultural resources. Exposure to molds may also be correlated with negative health effects in both patrons and librarians, so there are legitimate concerns about the dangers of contact with high levels of fungal contamination. Microbiologists are frequently called upon to help librarians after flooding and other events that bring water into library settings. This review can help guide microbiologists to choose appropriate protocols for the isolation and identification of mold in libraries and be a resource for librarians who are not usually trained in building science to manage the threat molds can pose to library holdings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Islam El Jaddaoui
- Laboratory of Human Pathologies Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University Mohammed V, Rabat 10000, Morocco
- Genomic Center of Human Pathologies, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University Mohammed V, Rabat 10000, Morocco
- Department of Plant Biology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA;
| | - Hassan Ghazal
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, School of Pharmacy, Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences, Casablanca 82403, Morocco;
- Royal Institute of Sports, Royal Institute for Managerial Training in Youth and Sport, Department of Sports Sciences, Laboratory of Sports Sciences and Performance Optimization, Salé 10102, Morocco
| | - Joan W. Bennett
- Department of Plant Biology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA;
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Douglas AP, Stewart AG, Halliday CL, Chen SCA. Outbreaks of Fungal Infections in Hospitals: Epidemiology, Detection, and Management. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1059. [PMID: 37998865 PMCID: PMC10672668 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Nosocomial clusters of fungal infections, whilst uncommon, cannot be predicted and are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Here, we review reports of nosocomial outbreaks of invasive fungal disease to glean insight into their epidemiology, risks for infection, methods employed in outbreak detection including genomic testing to confirm the outbreak, and approaches to clinical and infection control management. Both yeasts and filamentous fungi cause outbreaks, with each having general and specific risks. The early detection and confirmation of the outbreak are essential for diagnosis, treatment of affected patients, and termination of the outbreak. Environmental sampling, including the air in mould outbreaks, for the pathogen may be indicated. The genetic analysis of epidemiologically linked isolates is strongly recommended through a sufficiently discriminatory approach such as whole genome sequencing or a method that is acceptably discriminatory for that pathogen. An analysis of both linked isolates and epidemiologically unrelated strains is required to enable genetic similarity comparisons. The management of the outbreak encompasses input from a multi-disciplinary team with epidemiological investigation and infection control measures, including screening for additional cases, patient cohorting, and strict hygiene and cleaning procedures. Automated methods for fungal infection surveillance would greatly aid earlier outbreak detection and should be a focus of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abby P. Douglas
- National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Adam G. Stewart
- Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital Campus, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia;
| | - Catriona L. Halliday
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia; (C.L.H.); (S.C.-A.C.)
| | - Sharon C.-A. Chen
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia; (C.L.H.); (S.C.-A.C.)
- Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
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Puhlmann D, Bergmann D, Besier S, Hogardt M, Wichelhaus TA, Langhans S, Hack D, Reinheimer C, Vehreschild MJGT, Jung J, Kempf VAJ. Analysis of Mould Exposure of Immunosuppressed Patients at a German University Hospital. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2652. [PMID: 38004663 PMCID: PMC10672964 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11112652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Moulds are ubiquitous components of outdoor and indoor air and local conditions, temperature, humidity and season can influence their concentration in the air. The impact of these factors on mould exposure in hospitals and the resulting risk of infection for low to moderately immunocompromised patients is unclear. In the present retrospective analysis for the years 2018 to 2022, the monthly determined mould contamination of the outdoor and indoor air at the University Hospital Frankfurt am Main is compared with the average air temperature and the relative humidity. Mould infections (Aspergillus spp., Mucorales) of low to moderately immunosuppressed patients of a haematological-oncological normal ward were determined clinically according to the criteria of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC, Brussels, Belgium) and of the National Reference Centre for Surveillance of Nosocomial Infections (NRC-NI, Berlin, Germany). The data revealed that in the summer months (May-October), increased mould contamination was detectable in the outdoor and indoor air compared to the winter months (November-April). The mould levels in the patient rooms followed the detection rates of the outdoor air. Two nosocomial Aspergillus infections, one nosocomial Mucorales (Rhizopus spp.) infection (according to both NRC-NI and EORTC criteria) and five Aspergillus spp. infections (according to EORTC criteria) occurred in 4299 treated patients (resulting in 41,500 patient days). In our study, the incidence density rate of contracting a nosocomial mould infection (n = 3) was approximately 0.07 per 1000 patient days and appears to be negligible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danuta Puhlmann
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (D.P.)
- University Centre of Competence for Infection Control of the State of Hesse, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- University Centre for Infectious Diseases (UCI), University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Dominic Bergmann
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (D.P.)
- University Centre of Competence for Infection Control of the State of Hesse, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- University Centre for Infectious Diseases (UCI), University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Silke Besier
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (D.P.)
- University Centre of Competence for Infection Control of the State of Hesse, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- University Centre for Infectious Diseases (UCI), University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Michael Hogardt
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (D.P.)
- University Centre of Competence for Infection Control of the State of Hesse, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- University Centre for Infectious Diseases (UCI), University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Thomas A. Wichelhaus
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (D.P.)
- University Centre of Competence for Infection Control of the State of Hesse, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- University Centre for Infectious Diseases (UCI), University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sabine Langhans
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (D.P.)
- University Centre of Competence for Infection Control of the State of Hesse, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- University Centre for Infectious Diseases (UCI), University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Daniel Hack
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (D.P.)
- University Centre of Competence for Infection Control of the State of Hesse, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- University Centre for Infectious Diseases (UCI), University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Claudia Reinheimer
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (D.P.)
- University Centre of Competence for Infection Control of the State of Hesse, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- University Centre for Infectious Diseases (UCI), University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Maria J. G. T. Vehreschild
- Department for Internal Medicine II, University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jens Jung
- Department 1—Finance and Patient Services, University Hospital, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Volkhard A. J. Kempf
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (D.P.)
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Paulikienė S, Žvirdauskienė R. Evaluation of Hydrothermal Treatment of Winter Wheat Grain with Ozonated Water. Plants (Basel) 2023; 12:3267. [PMID: 37765431 PMCID: PMC10534647 DOI: 10.3390/plants12183267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Products must be cleaned or otherwise treated to keep them clean when they are prepared for further production or when they are supplied fresh to the consumer. Cereals have significantly lower settling losses than succulent agricultural products, but the risks that can arise from their hydrothermal treatment before milling-where the cereals are moistened and left to rest for 14 h (temperature 30 °C)-are often underestimated. This operation creates a favourable environment for the development of micro-organisms, which, if not destroyed, can continue throughout the processing stages and be passed on to the consumer. This study investigated the qualitative characteristics of winter wheat hydrothermally treated with ozonated water at a concentration of 1.51 ± 0.1 mg L-1, such as the amount of mould in the grains and flour, as well as the grain protein, moisture, gluten, sedimentation, starch and weight per hectolitre. For the assessment of these parameters, the account was taken of the State standard, which provides the grain class and the type of grain. The reduction in mould fungi after the treatment of the winter wheat grain with ozonated water ranged between 440 and 950 CFU g-1. The results of the microbiological analysis showed that the ozone treatment improved the mycological safety of the flour samples made from the grain from an average of 390 ± 110 CFU g-1 to 29 ± 12 CFU g-1. On the other hand, the treatment of kernels with ozonated water did not significantly affect the basic composition of the winter wheat grains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Paulikienė
- Faculty of Engineering, Agriculture Academy, Vytautas Magnus University, Studentų Str. 15, 53362 Akademija, Lithuania
| | - Renata Žvirdauskienė
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Kaunas University of Technology, Radvilėnų Str. 19, 50254 Kaunas, Lithuania
- Microbiology Laboratory, Institute of Agriculture, Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry, Instituto al. 1, 58344 Akademija, Lithuania
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Finne CK. Mycobiota of Potato-Cereal Soft Wraps and the Production Facility. Foods 2023; 12:3238. [PMID: 37685171 PMCID: PMC10486551 DOI: 10.3390/foods12173238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the mycobiota of potato-cereal soft wraps and in the processing area. Potato-cereal soft wraps are cooked, cold-stored and mashed potatoes that are kneaded together, usually with wheat flour, to form dough. In order to identify the main spoilage mould of this product, 150 visible mould colonies from mouldy wraps were identified. Five different mould species were isolated; Aspergillus niger, Penicillium brevicompactum, Penicillium commune, Penicllium corylophilum and Pencillium discolor. The dominating spoilage mould was Penicillium commune with 83.9% of the colonies. In order to study the mycobiota of the production area, 271 samples of air and surfaces were collected. In total, 647 mould colonies were isolated from air and surface samples. The mycobiota of air consisted of 27 different species within 9 different genera, and the mycobiota of surfaces consisted of 14 species within 4 different genera. Penicllium species were the dominating genera both in air and on surfaces, and Penicillium commune was the dominating species in the processing environment as well. Penicillium commune was found in the bakery and also in other production rooms. Spores from the flour and from soil on potatoes can disperse in the air as aerosols and may contaminate the wraps after baking when the product is cooled before packaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathrine Kure Finne
- Nofima-Norwegian Institute of Food, Fisheries and Aquaculture Research, P.O. Box 210, N-1431 Ås, Norway
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Pellegrini M, Barbieri F, Montanari C, Iacumin L, Bernardi C, Gardini F, Comi G. Microbial Spoilage of Traditional Goose Sausages Produced in a Northern Region of Italy. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1942. [PMID: 37630502 PMCID: PMC10459116 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11081942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, during the ripening of goose sausage, a defect consisting of ammonia and vinegar smell was noticed. The producer of the craft facility, located in Lombardia, a Northern region of Italy, asked us to identify the cause of that defect. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the potential responsible agents for the spoilage of this lot of goose sausages. Spoilage was first detected by sensory analysis using the "needle probing" technique; however, the spoiled sausages were not marketable due to the high ammonia and vinegar smell. The added starter culture did not limit or inhibit the spoilage microorganisms, which were represented by Levilactobacillus brevis, the predominant species, and by Enterococcus faecalis and E. faecium. These microorganisms grew during ripening and produced a large amount of biogenic amines, which could represent a risk for consumers. Furthermore, Lev. brevis, being a heterofermentative lactic acid bacteria (LAB), also produced ethanol, acetic acid, and a variation in the sausage colour. The production of biogenic amines was confirmed in vitro. Furthermore, as observed in a previous study, the second cause of spoilage can be attributed to moulds which grew during ripening; both the isolated strains, Penicillium nalgiovense, added as a starter culture, and P. lanosocoeruleum, present as an environmental contaminant, grew between the meat and casing, producing a large amount of total volatile nitrogen, responsible for the ammonia smell perceived in the ripening area and in the sausages. This is the first description of Levilactobacillus brevis predominance in spoiled goose sausage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Pellegrini
- Department of Agricultural, Food, Environmental and Animal Science, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.P.); (L.I.)
| | - Federica Barbieri
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy; (F.B.); (C.M.); (F.G.)
| | - Chiara Montanari
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy; (F.B.); (C.M.); (F.G.)
| | - Lucilla Iacumin
- Department of Agricultural, Food, Environmental and Animal Science, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.P.); (L.I.)
| | - Cristian Bernardi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Lodi, Italy;
| | - Fausto Gardini
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy; (F.B.); (C.M.); (F.G.)
| | - Giuseppe Comi
- Department of Agricultural, Food, Environmental and Animal Science, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.P.); (L.I.)
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Gordon Holzheimer R. Moisture damage and fungal contamination in buildings are a massive health threat - a surgeon's perspective. Cent Eur J Public Health 2023; 31:63-68. [PMID: 37086423 DOI: 10.21101/cejph.a7504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Indoor air toxicity is of major public health concern due to the increase in humidity-induced indoor mould exposure and associated health changes. The objective is to present evidence for the causality of health threats and indoor mould exposure. METHODS PubMed search on the following keywords: dampness, mould, indoor air quality, public health, dampness, and mould hypersensitivity syndrome, sick building syndrome, and building-related illness as well as information from the health authorities of Bavaria and North Rhine-Westphalia, the Center of Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organisation (WHO), and guidelines of professional societies. RESULTS The guidelines of professional societies published in 2017 are decisive for the assessment of the impact of mould pollution caused by moisture damage on human health and for official regulations in Germany. Until 2017, a causal connection between moisture damage and mould exposure could usually only be established for pulmonary diseases. The health risk of fungal components is apparent as documented in the fungal priority pathogens list (FPPL) of the WHO. Since 2017, studies, especially in Scandinavia, have proved causality between moisture and mould exposure not only for pulmonary diseases but also for extrapulmonary diseases and symptoms. This was made possible by new test methods for determining the toxicity of fungal components in indoor air. Environmental medical syndromes, e.g., dampness and mould hypersensitivity syndrome (DMHS), sick building syndrome (SBS), building-related symptoms (BRS), and building-related illness (BRI), and fungal pathogens, e.g., Aspergillus fumigatus, pose a major threat to public health. CONCLUSION There is evidence for the causality of moisture-induced indoor moulds and severe health threats in these buildings. According to these findings, it is no longer justifiable to ignore or trivialize the mould contamination induced by moisture damage and its effects on pulmonary and extrapulmonary diseases. The health and economic implications of these attitudes are clear.
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Efthymiopoulos S, Aktas YD, Altamirano H. Mind the gap between non-activated (non-aggressive) and activated (aggressive) indoor fungal testing: impact of pre-sampling environmental settings on indoor air readings. UCL Open Environ 2023; 5:e055. [PMID: 37229344 PMCID: PMC10208333 DOI: 10.14324/111.444/ucloe.000055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Indoor fungal testing has been within the researchers' scope of interest for more than a century. Various sampling and analysis techniques have been developed over the years, but no testing protocol has been yet standardised and widely accepted by the research and practitioner communities. The diversity in fungal taxa within buildings with varied biological properties and implications on the health and wellbeing of the occupants and the building fabric complicates the decision-making process for selecting an appropriate testing protocol. This study aims to present a critical review of non-activated and activated approaches to indoor testing, with an emphasis on the preparation of the indoor environment prior to sampling. The study demonstrates the differences in the outcomes of non-activated and activated testing through a set of laboratory experiments in idealised conditions and a case study. The findings suggest that larger particles are particularly sensitive to the sampling height and activation, and that non-activated protocols, despite dominating the current literature, can significantly underestimate the fungal biomass and species richness. Therefore, this paper calls for better-defined and activated protocols that can enhance robustness and reproducibility across the research domain focused on indoor fungal testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spyros Efthymiopoulos
- Department of Civil Environmental and Geomatic Engineering (CEGE), University College London, London, UK
- UK Centre for Moisture in Buildings (UKCMB), London, UK
| | - Yasemin D. Aktas
- Department of Civil Environmental and Geomatic Engineering (CEGE), University College London, London, UK
- UK Centre for Moisture in Buildings (UKCMB), London, UK
| | - Hector Altamirano
- UK Centre for Moisture in Buildings (UKCMB), London, UK
- Institute of Environmental Design and Engineering (IEDE), UCL, London, UK
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Mayerová L, Kožíšek F, Baudišová D, Klánová K, Hlaváčková B. The mechanism of spoilage of a bottled soft drink leading to health problem of consumer. Cent Eur J Public Health 2022; 30:261-264. [PMID: 36718930 DOI: 10.21101/cejph.a7388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The case of spoilage of flavoured and sweetened soft drink occurred in the Czech Republic in 2019. After drinking it, the consumer was admitted to a hospital with sickness. The spoilage was caused by mould and an odorous substance, 1,3-pentadiene. The mechanism of food spoilage, with the formation of 1,3-pentadiene arising from the decarboxylation of sorbic acid and mould growth, is described. This could be the second case history reported worldwide of an allergic reaction to penicillin explaining how penicillin might get into the beverage. We hypothesise three possible causes of the health problem experienced with allergic reaction to penicillin or other mycotoxin produced by Penicillium mould as the most probable one.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka Mayerová
- Centre for Health and the Environment, National Institute of Public Health, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - František Kožíšek
- Centre for Health and the Environment, National Institute of Public Health, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Dana Baudišová
- Centre for Health and the Environment, National Institute of Public Health, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Kateřina Klánová
- Centre of Toxicology and Health Safety, National Institute of Public Health, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Hlaváčková
- Regional Public Health Authority of the Central Bohemian Region, Prague, Czech Republic
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13
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Wypych-Ślusarska A, Niewiadomska E, Głogowska-Ligus J. Asthma, bronchitis respiratory symptoms, allergies and home environment: how are they related? Postepy Dermatol Alergol 2022; 39:729-38. [PMID: 36090730 DOI: 10.5114/ada.2021.109696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Home environmental conditions can affect the prevalence of childhood asthma and allergies. Aim To assess the relationship between the prevalence of childhood asthma, bronchitis, and allergies and the condition of the home environment. Material and methods In 2018 and 2019, a cross-sectional study on 2932 children from elementary schools in the Silesian Voivodship (Southern Poland) was conducted. The questionnaire was based on the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC). In order to determine the association between the home environment (presence of moulds, furry pets) and respiratory symptoms and diseases, a logistic regression analysis was performed by calculating the odds ratio (OR), determining p < 0.05 as the level of significance. Results Asthma risk factors were male sex, heating with solid fuel and presence of moulds. The prevalence of respiratory symptoms, bronchitis, and allergic diseases is statistically more common with the presence of moulds in dwellings. A protective effect of the presence of pets on the prevalence of asthma (OR = 0.77; 95% CI: 0.59–0.99), allergy to pet allergens (OR = 0.59; 95% CI: 0.45–0.76), allergy to house dust mite (OR = 0.70; 95% CI: 0.56–0.87) and wheeze in the last 12 months (OR = 0.70; 95% CI: 0.54–0.91) and ever (OR = 0.85; 95% CI: 0.70–1.02) was observed. Conclusions The study confirmed the known adverse influence of the presence of moulds and heating with solid fuel on the prevalence of asthma, bronchitis, respiratory symptoms and allergic diseases. The protective influence of pets on the occurrence of the health disorders under study was demonstrated.
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Prapamontol T, Norbäck D, Thongjan N, Suwannarin N, Somsunun K, Ponsawansong P, Radarit K, Kawichai S, Naksen W. Asthma and rhinitis in wet and dry season among students in upper Northern Thailand: the role of building dampness and household air pollution. Int J Environ Health Res 2022:1-13. [PMID: 35253533 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2022.2047902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
We investigated associations between domestic exposure and respiratory health in students inNorthern Thailand in wet and dry season (1159 participants), calculating odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) by multilevel logistic regression. Totally 6.0% had wheeze, 23.0% dyspnoea, 4.0% current asthma, 54.6% rhinitis and 31.5% rhinoconjunctivitis. Girls had less wheeze (OR 0.66; 95% CI 0.43-1.00) and current asthma (OR 0.32; 95% CI 0.19-0.54). Water leakage was associated with wheeze (OR 2.35; 95% CI 1.09-5.06), dyspnea (OR 2.00; 95% CI 1.24-3.23) and rhinoconjunctivitis (OR 1.62; 95% CI 1.11-2.38). Mould was associated with rhinitis (OR 1.89; 95% CI 1.06-3.38). Window pane condensation was associated with wheeze (OR 2.60; 95% CI 1.13-5.98) and rhinoconjunctivitis (OR 1.70; 95% CI 1.08-2.67). Biomass burning was associated with wheeze, dyspnoea, rhinitis and rhinoconjunctivitis. In conclusion, household dampness and pollution from domestic biomass burning can increase asthma symptoms and rhinitis symptoms in students in northern Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tippawan Prapamontol
- Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Dan Norbäck
- Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Nathaporn Thongjan
- Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Neeranuch Suwannarin
- Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Kawinwut Somsunun
- Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | | | - Kesseya Radarit
- Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Sawaeng Kawichai
- Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Warangkana Naksen
- Faculty of Public Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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15
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Coulburn L, Miller W. Prevalence, Risk Factors and Impacts Related to Mould-Affected Housing: An Australian Integrative Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:1854. [PMID: 35162876 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In response to an Australian governmental inquiry into biotoxin-related illness, the purpose of this integrative review is to bring together the current state of evidence on the prevalence, risk factors and impacts related to mould-affected housing in an Australian context, in order to inform building, housing and health research, practice and policy. The robust integrative review methodology simultaneously sought quantitative and qualitative studies and grey literature from multiple disciplines, identifying only 45 studies directly relating to Australian housing and indoor mould. Twenty-one studies highlight negative health impacts relating to indoor residential mould, with asthma, respiratory, allergy conditions and emerging health concerns for chronic multiple-symptom presentation. The majority of studies reported risk factors for indoor mould including poor housing conditions, poor-quality rental accommodation, socioeconomic circumstance, age-related housing issues and concerns for surface/interstitial condensation and building defects in newer housing. Risks for indoor mould in both older and newer housing raise concerns for the extent of the problem of indoor mould in Australia. Understanding the national prevalence of housing risks and “root cause” associated with indoor mould is not conclusive from the limited existing evidence. Synthesis of this evidence reveals a lack of coverage on: (1) national and geographical representation, (2) climatical coverage, (3) housing typologies, (4) housing defects, (5) maintenance, (6) impact from urbanisation, and (7) occupant’s behaviour. This integrative review was key in identifying emerging housing and health concerns, highlighting gaps in data and implications to be addressed by researchers, practice and policy and acts as a comprehensive holistic review process that can be applied to other countries.
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16
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German-Sanchez A, Alonso-Llamazares A, Garcia-Gonzalez F, Matala-Ahmed B, Bartolome-Zavala B, Antepara-Ercoreca I. Allergy to beer and wine caused by Saccharomyces cerevisiae in a patient sensitized to fungi. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol 2021; 32:311-313. [PMID: 34661531 DOI: 10.18176/jiaci.0755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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17
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Sun Y, Guo J, Chen R, Hu L, Xia Q, Wu W, Wang J, Hu F. Multicenter evaluation of three different MALDI-TOF MS systems for identification of clinically relevant filamentous fungi. Med Mycol 2021; 59:81-86. [PMID: 32437532 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myaa037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) holds promise as a potential tool for clinical identification of filamentous fungi. However, due to the lack of an appropriate extraction protocol and the difficulty of database building, the identification power of each system differs. In this study, we selected 126 clinical mould isolates comprising 28 species identified using internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequencing as the reference method to evaluate three MALDI-TOF MS systems. When using cultures and sample preparation as recommended by the respective vendors, of the 126 strains tested, VITEK MS identified 121 (96.0%) to species-level and 124 (98.4%) to genus-level; Biotyper identified 53 (42.1%) to species-level and 54 (42.9%) to genus-level; Autof identified 74 (58.7%) to species-level and 76 (60.3%) to genus-level. For the Autof system, the tube extraction method recommended by the vendor performed better (59%) than the on-plate lysis (51%). Our study demonstrates that MALDI-TOF MS systems can successfully identify most clinically relevant fungi, while performance is still highly dependent on the database and sample preparation protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Sun
- Institute of Antibiotics, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology of Antibiotics, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Guo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Rong Chen
- Department of Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Shanghai Center for Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai, China
| | - Liang Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qihang Xia
- Department of Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Shanghai Center for Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjuan Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinghua Wang
- Department of Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Shanghai Center for Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai, China
| | - Fupin Hu
- Institute of Antibiotics, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology of Antibiotics, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, China
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Seo H, Kim JY, Son HJ, Jung J, Kim MJ, Chong YP, Lee SO, Choi SH, Kim YS, Kim SH. Diagnostic performance of real-time polymerase chain reaction assay on blood for invasive aspergillosis and mucormycosis. Mycoses 2021; 64:1554-1562. [PMID: 34013523 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic usefulness of real-time (RT) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on blood samples for diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis and mucormycosis in patients with suspected invasive mould infection. METHODS Adult patients with suspected invasive mould infection were prospectively enrolled at a tertiary referral hospital in Seoul, South Korea between 2017 and 2020. Standard tests for diagnosis of invasive mould infection and RT-PCR for Aspergillus, Mucor and Rhizopus using blood samples were performed. We evaluated the diagnostic performance of RT-PCR tests in patients diagnosed with proven and probable invasive aspergillosis or mucormycosis infection, according to the modified definitions of the EORTC/MSG 2019. RESULTS A total of 102 patients with suspected invasive mould infection were enrolled. Of these patients, 46 (45%) were classified as having proven (n = 13) or probable (n = 33) invasive aspergillosis, 21 (21%) as proven (n = 17) or probable (n = 4) invasive mucormycosis and 18 (18%) as possible invasive mould infection. The remaining 13 (13%) were classified as not having invasive mould infection. Patients with possible invasive mould infection (n = 18) and coinfection of aspergillosis and mucormycosis (n = 4) were excluded from the final analysis. The sensitivity and specificity of the Aspergillus PCR were 54.3% ([25/46], 95% confidence interval [CI]: 40.2-67.9%) and 94.1% ([32/34], 95% CI: 80.9-98.4%), respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of the Mucor or Rhizopus PCR were 57.1% ([12/21], 95% CI: 36.6-75.5%) and 76.3% ([45/59], 95% CI: 64.0-85.3), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that blood PCR can be a useful adjunct test for diagnosing patients with suspected invasive mould infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeonji Seo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Yeun Kim
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyo-Ju Son
- Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jiwon Jung
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min Jae Kim
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yong Pil Chong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang-Oh Lee
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang-Ho Choi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yang Soo Kim
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung-Han Kim
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Zhang J, Du C, Li Q, Hu A, Peng R, Sun F, Zhang W. Inhibition mechanism and antibacterial activity of natural antibacterial agent citral on bamboo mould and its anti-mildew effect on bamboo. R Soc Open Sci 2021; 8:202244. [PMID: 33996126 PMCID: PMC8059595 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.202244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Bamboo, a natural material, has been widely used in the fields of decoration, architecture and furniture. However, bamboo is easy to mildew and lose its use value. In this paper, the inhibition mechanism and antibacterial activity of a natural antibacterial agent citral on bamboo mould and its anti-mildew effect on bamboo were studied. The results showed that citral could change the shape of mycelium, destroy the integrity of mycelium structure, cell wall and cell membrane structure, thereby causing leakage of nucleic acids, proteins and other substances in the cell, as well as destroy the pH balance of the inside and outside of the cell, to inhibit or kill mould. When the concentration of citral is 100 mg ml-1, the antibacterial rates of citral against Penicillium citrinum (PC), Trichoderma viride (TV), Aspergillus niger (AN) and a hybrid fungi group comprising PC, TV and AN (Hun) were more than 100%. However, compared with the direct effect of citral on mould, the antibacterial property of bamboo treated with citral was significantly reduced, the mildew proof effect can be achieved only if the concentration of citral to treat bamboo is increased to more than twice the concentration of citral directly acting on mould.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Zhang
- School of Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, People's Republic of China
| | - Chungui Du
- School of Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Li
- School of Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, People's Republic of China
| | - Ailian Hu
- School of Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Peng
- School of Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, People's Republic of China
| | - Fangli Sun
- School of Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, People's Republic of China
| | - Weigang Zhang
- School of Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, People's Republic of China
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Przybył K, Wawrzyniak J, Koszela K, Adamski F, Gawrysiak-Witulska M. Application of Deep and Machine Learning Using Image Analysis to Detect Fungal Contamination of Rapeseed. Sensors (Basel) 2020; 20:E7305. [PMID: 33352649 PMCID: PMC7767128 DOI: 10.3390/s20247305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This paper endeavors to evaluate rapeseed samples obtained in the process of storage experiments with different humidity (12% and 16% seed moisture content) and temperature conditions (25 and 30 °C). The samples were characterized by different levels of contamination with filamentous fungi. In order to acquire graphic data, the analysis of the morphological structure of rapeseeds was carried out with the use of microscopy. The acquired database was prepared in order to build up training, validation, and test sets. The process of generating a neural model was based on Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN), Multi-Layer Perceptron Networks (MLPN), and Radial Basis Function Networks (RBFN). The classifiers that were compared were devised on the basis of the environments Tensorflow (deep learning) and Statistica (machine learning). As a result, it was possible to achieve the lowest classification error of 14% for the test set, 18% classification error for MLPN, and 21% classification error for RBFN, in the process of recognizing mold in rapeseed with the use of CNN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Przybył
- Food Sciences and Nutrition, Department of Food Technology of Plant Origin, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 31, 60-624 Poznan, Poland or (K.P.); (J.W.); (F.A.); (M.G.-W.)
| | - Jolanta Wawrzyniak
- Food Sciences and Nutrition, Department of Food Technology of Plant Origin, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 31, 60-624 Poznan, Poland or (K.P.); (J.W.); (F.A.); (M.G.-W.)
| | - Krzysztof Koszela
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 50, 60-625 Poznan, Poland
| | - Franciszek Adamski
- Food Sciences and Nutrition, Department of Food Technology of Plant Origin, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 31, 60-624 Poznan, Poland or (K.P.); (J.W.); (F.A.); (M.G.-W.)
| | - Marzena Gawrysiak-Witulska
- Food Sciences and Nutrition, Department of Food Technology of Plant Origin, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 31, 60-624 Poznan, Poland or (K.P.); (J.W.); (F.A.); (M.G.-W.)
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21
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Pellizzon ACA, Fogaroli R, Chen MJ, Maia P, Gondim G, Guedes DC, Ramos H, Silva MLG. High-dose-rate brachytherapy using Leipzig applicators for non-melanoma localized skin cancer. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2020; 12:435-40. [PMID: 33299432 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2020.100376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Technological advances with commercial production of surface applicators allowed high-dose-rate (HDR) afterloading brachytherapy to overpass challenges associated with the delivery of superficial radiation when treating non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). We reviewed our single institutional experience using HDR to treat basal (BCC) and squamous cell (SCC) carcinomas. Material and methods A retrospective review of all patients treated with HDR and Leipzig-style applicators for NMSC at the Radiation Oncology Department, AC Camargo Cancer Center, from March 2013 to December 2018 was performed. Results Seventy-one patients with 101 lesions (BCCs, 69.3% or n = 70) and median age 80 (range, 51-102) years old were evaluated. The median follow-up was 42.8 (range, 12-82) months. The 3-year and 5-year actuarial local control (LC) rates were 97.9% and 87.2%, respectively. On univariate analysis, treatments with EQD2 less than 50 Gy (p < 0.001) and dose per fraction smaller than 3 Gy (p < 0.001) were found to be statistically significant predictive factors of a worse outcome. On multivariate analysis, SCC had a worse prognosis over BCC (p = 0.007, HR = 2.3, CI: 1.2-6.6). All patients developed some degree of acute side effects graded 1 to 2. Grade 3 acute side effects were observed in 9 (8.9%) patients. Moreover, severe late side effects (grade 3), hypopigmentation, and telangiectasia were observed in 4 (3.9%) patients. No grade 4 acute or late side effects were seen in this cohort. Conclusions HDR offers a convenient treatment schedule for patients and is associated with excellent LC. The most effective regimen, in terms of dose and fractionation, to treat superficial NMSC with HDR remains uncertain, but a moderate minimum EQD2 dose of 50 Gy should be used.
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22
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Su B, Wu L. Occupants' Health and Their Living Conditions of Remote Indigenous Communities in New Zealand. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:E8340. [PMID: 33187338 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17228340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The New Zealand Ministry of Health reported that respiratory disease affects 700,000 people, annually costs New Zealand NZ$7.05 billion, and is the third-highest cause of death. The hospitalisation rate for asthma of Māori communities is 2.0 higher than that of other ethnic groups, and hospitalisation rates for deprived homes are 2.3 times higher than those of the least deprived homes. Based on physical data and evidence, which were drawn from a mixed methodology that includes field studies of the indoor microclimate, dust-mite allergens, mould growth, and occupants' Respiratory Health Survey of a number of sample houses of Māori communities in Minginui, Te Whaiti, Murupara, and Rotorua of New Zealand, the study identifies unhealthy indoor thermal conditions, thresholds or ranges of indoor micro-climate related to different levels of dust-mite allergen and mould growth, the most common type of indoor mould, and correlations between dust-mite and mould and correlations. The study not only identified that the poor health of occupants is closely related to their inadequate living conditions, but also identifies the threshold of indoor micro-climates to maintain indoor allergens at the acceptable level, which can be used as a guideline to maintain or improve indoor health conditions for future housing development or retrofitted old housing.
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Aktas YD, Reeslev M, Altamirano H, May N, D’Ayala D. Normal background levels of air and surface mould reserve in English residential building stock: a preliminary study towards benchmarks based on NAHA measurements. UCL Open Environ 2020; 2:e005. [PMID: 37229291 PMCID: PMC10171414 DOI: 10.14324/111.444/ucloe.000005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
This paper reports results obtained from a surface (both visually clean and dirty/dusty surfaces) and active (aggressive or activated) air testing scheme on 140 residential rooms in England, without visible water damage or mould growth, along with a few rooms with visible mould growth/water damage tested for comparison purposes. The aim was to establish normal background levels of mould in non-water-damaged interiors to benchmark a 'normal' indoor environment, and in turn when there is a need for further investigation, and, possibly, remediation. Air and surface mould was quantified based on the activity of β-N-acetylhexosaminidase (EC 3.2.1.52; NAHA). The obtained readings showed a log-normal distribution. Ninety-eight percent of the samples obtained from visually clean surfaces were equal to or less than 25 relative fluorescence units (RFU), which is suggested to be the higher bound for the range which can be used as a success criterion for surface cleaning/remediation. Of samples obtained from visually dirty/dusty surfaces, around 98% were below 450 RFU, which is suggested to define the lower-bound for abnormally high levels of mould, rare even on dirty/dusty surfaces. Similarly, around 98% of the air samples were found to have 1700 RFU or below. Values above 1700 RFU are therefore deemed unlikely in a non-problem indoor environment and can be indicative of a possible problem inducing mould growth. The samples with values below 1700 were further divided into three proposed sub-categories. Finally, the obtained RFU values and the suggested benchmarks were compared to those obtained from 17 non-residential indoor environments tested previously in Copenhagen, and the benchmarks that are currently used in Danish national standards, and they were both found to be highly congruent, suggesting that local climate regimes and room functions might not be as influential on indoor mould levels as commonly thought, or that the nuances between England and Denmark in terms of these factors are not strong enough to lead to sizable changes in the typical indoor mould levels in these countries' building stocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasemin Didem Aktas
- University College London (UCL), Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering (CEGE), Epicentre Research Group, London WC1E 6DE, UK
- UK Centre for Moisture in Buildings (UKCMB), University College London, London WC1H 0NN, UK
| | - Morten Reeslev
- Mycometer A/S, Dr Neergaards Vej 3, 2970 Hørsholm, Denmark
| | - Hector Altamirano
- UK Centre for Moisture in Buildings (UKCMB), University College London, London WC1H 0NN, UK
- University College London (UCL), Institute of Environmental Design and Engineering (IEDE), London WC1H 0NN, UK
| | - Neil May
- UK Centre for Moisture in Buildings (UKCMB), University College London, London WC1H 0NN, UK
| | - Dina D’Ayala
- University College London (UCL), Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering (CEGE), Epicentre Research Group, London WC1E 6DE, UK
- UK Centre for Moisture in Buildings (UKCMB), University College London, London WC1H 0NN, UK
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Son HJ, Song JS, Choi S, Jung J, Kim MJ, Chong YP, Lee SO, Choi SH, Kim YS, Woo JH, Kim SH. A comparison of histomorphologic diagnosis with culture- and immunohistochemistry-based diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis and mucormycosis. Infect Dis (Lond) 2020; 52:279-283. [PMID: 31973617 DOI: 10.1080/23744235.2020.1716063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Due to the low sensitivity of mould culture, clinicians usually depend on the histomorphologic diagnosis of invasive mould infection for empirical antifungal therapy. However, definite diagnosis is not always possible based on the mould morphology. We thus compared the histomorphologic diagnosis with immunohistochemistry (IHC)- and culture-based diagnosis.Methods: All adult patients who underwent tissue biopsy and in whom the histomorphologic diagnosis revealed invasive mould infection were enrolled at a tertiary hospital, Seoul, South Korea, between 1992 and 2014 (retrospectively) and 2015 and 2019 (prospectively). Their histomorphologic diagnoses were classified as two categories: (1) acute-angled branching, septate hyphae with parallel walls and a uniform width ('morphologic aspergillosis') and (2) right-angled branching pauciseptate, broader and ribbon-like hyphae with nonparallel walls ('morphologic mucormycosis').Results: A total of 113 patients were finally analysed and their histomorphologic diagnoses were classified as follows: 51 (45%) with morphologic aspergillosis, 62 (55%) with morphologic mucormycosis. Of the 51 patients with morphologic aspergillosis, 46 (90%) received the same diagnosis based on culture and/or IHC, and the remaining five (10%) gave positive IHC result for mucormycosis. Of the 62 patients with morphologic mucormycosis, 60 (97%) had the same diagnosis based on culture and/or IHC, and the remaining two (3%) yielded a positive aspergillus culture or a positive IHC result for aspergillosis, respectively.Conclusions: The majority of histomorphologic diagnoses appear to be consistent with definitive diagnoses based on sterile culture and IHC tests. However, about 10% of 'morphologic aspergillosis' diagnoses were mucormycosis cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyo-Ju Son
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Seon Song
- Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungim Choi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Dongguk University Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiwon Jung
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Jae Kim
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Pil Chong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Oh Lee
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Ho Choi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yang Soo Kim
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Hee Woo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Han Kim
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Liu Y, Liu Y, Gao Y, Dong C, Wang S. Microstructure and Properties of Ni-Co Composite Cladding Coating on Mould Copper Plate. Materials (Basel) 2019; 12:E2782. [PMID: 31470562 DOI: 10.3390/ma12172782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 08/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In this study, a Ni–Co composite coating was fabricated successively on a copper substrate by laser, and the microstructure and properties of the composite coating were studied. Our results show that the elements from Ni and Co alloy powder were uniformly distributed in the binding region, which obtained a good metallurgical bonding with the substrate. The microhardness of Co-based coatings was 646 HV0.1, which was approximately 7.6 times greater than the hardness of Cu substrate. The Ni-based coating hardness was a little lower than that of the Co-based coating, which was approximately 7.0 times higher than the hardness of Cu substrate. The Co-based coating was comprised of reinforced phases, such as Co, Ni–Cr–Co–Mo, M7C3 and {Fe, Ni}. The wear volume of Co-based coatings was approximately 0.164 mm3 after the sliding wear test at 60 min, which was only 4% of the substrate’s wear volume. Meanwhile, the heat shock resistance experiment was carried out at 800 °C for 75 times before the Ni–Co composite coating was peeled off. It was shown that this Ni–Co composite coating had good wear resistance and high temperature properties, which is helpful to improve the service life of a mould copper plate. It not only saves the economic cost of steel plants, but also improves the quality of slabs and products.
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Ingham T, Keall M, Jones B, Aldridge DRT, Dowell AC, Davies C, Crane J, Draper JB, Bailey LO, Viggers H, Stanley TV, Leadbitter P, Latimer M, Howden-Chapman P. Damp mouldy housing and early childhood hospital admissions for acute respiratory infection: a case control study. Thorax 2019; 74:849-857. [PMID: 31413146 PMCID: PMC6824607 DOI: 10.1136/thoraxjnl-2018-212979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A gap exists in the literature regarding dose-response associations of objectively assessed housing quality measures, particularly dampness and mould, with hospitalisation for acute respiratory infection (ARI) among children. METHODS A prospective, unmatched case-control study was conducted in two paediatric wards and five general practice clinics in Wellington, New Zealand, over winter/spring 2011-2013. Children aged <2 years who were hospitalised for ARI (cases), and either seen in general practice with ARI not requiring admission or for routine immunisation (controls) were included in the study. Objective housing quality was assessed by independent building assessors, with the assessors blinded to outcome status, using the Respiratory Hazard Index (RHI), a 13-item scale of household quality factors, including an 8-item damp-mould subscale. The main outcome was case-control status. Adjusted ORs (aORs) of the association of housing quality measures with case-control status were estimated, along with the population attributable risk of eliminating dampness-mould on hospitalisation for ARI among New Zealand children. RESULTS 188 cases and 454 controls were studied. Higher levels of RHI were associated with elevated odds of hospitalisation (OR 1.11/unit increase (95% CI 1.01 to 1.21)), which weakened after adjustment for season, housing tenure, socioeconomic status and crowding (aOR 1.04/unit increase (95% CI 0.94 to 1.15)). The damp-mould index had a significant, adjusted dose-response relationship with ARI admission (aOR 1.15/unit increase (95% CI 1.02 to 1.30)). By addressing these harmful housing exposures, the rate of admission for ARI would be reduced by 19% or 1700 fewer admissions annually. CONCLUSIONS A dose-response relationship exists between housing quality measures, particularly dampness-mould, and young children's ARI hospitalisation rates. Initiatives to improve housing quality and to reduce dampness-mould would have a large impact on ARI hospitalisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tristram Ingham
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Michael Keall
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Bernadette Jones
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Daniel R T Aldridge
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Anthony C Dowell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Cheryl Davies
- Tu Kotahi Māori Asthma Trust, Lower Hutt, New Zealand
| | - Julian Crane
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Jessica Barbara Draper
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
- Tu Kotahi Māori Asthma Trust, Lower Hutt, New Zealand
| | | | - Helen Viggers
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Thorsten Villiers Stanley
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
- Department of Paediatrics, Capital and Coast District Health Board, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Philip Leadbitter
- Department of Paediatrics, Hutt Valley District Health Board, Lower Hutt, New Zealand
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Moses L, Morrissey K, Sharpe RA, Taylor T. Exposure to Indoor Mouldy Odour Increases the Risk of Asthma in Older Adults Living in Social Housing. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2019; 16:E2600. [PMID: 31336583 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16142600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Background: Indoor dampness is thought to affect around 16% of European homes. It is generally accepted that increased exposure to indoor dampness and mould contamination (e.g., spores and hyphae) increases the risk of developing and/or exacerbating asthma. Around 30% of people in the Western world have an allergic disease (e.g., allergy, wheeze and asthma). The role of indoor mould contamination in the risk of allergic diseases in older adults is yet to be fully explored. This is of interest because older people spend more time indoors, as well as facing health issues due to the ageing process, and may be at greater risk of developing and/or exacerbating asthma as a result of indoor dampness. Methods: Face-to-face questionnaires were carried out with 302 participants residing in social housing properties located in South West England. Self-reported demographic, mould contamination (i.e., presence of mould growth and mouldy odour) and health information was linked with the asset management records (e.g., building type, age and levels of maintenance). Multivariate logistic regression was used to calculate the odd ratios and confidence intervals of developing and/or exacerbating asthma, wheeze and allergy with exposure to reported indoor mould contamination. We adjusted for a range of factors that may affect asthma outcomes, which include age, sex, current smoking, presence of pets, education, and building type and age. To assess the role of mould contamination in older adults, we compared younger adults to those aged over 50 years. Results: Doctor-diagnosed adult asthma was reported by 26% of respondents, 34% had current wheeze while 18% had allergies. Asthma was common among subjects exposed to reported visible mould (32%) and reported mouldy odour (42%). Exposure to visible mould growth and mouldy odour were risk factors for asthma, but not for wheeze or allergy. Exposure to mouldy odour increased the risk of asthma in adults over the age of 50 years (odds ratio (OR) 2.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10–5.34) and the risk was higher for females than for males (OR 3.5, 95% CI 1.37–9.08). These associations were modified by a range of built environment characteristics. Conclusions: We found that older adults living in social (public) housing properties, specifically women, may be at higher risk of asthma when exposed to mouldy odour, which has a number of implications for policy makers and practitioners working in the health and housing sector. Additional measures should be put in place to protect older people living in social housing against indoor damp and mould contamination.
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Szvalb AD, Kontoyiannis DP. Acute acalculous cholecystitis due to Fusarium species and review of the literature on fungal cholecystitis. Mycoses 2019; 62:847-853. [PMID: 31166627 DOI: 10.1111/myc.12953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Fungal cholecystitis is an uncommon entity, and no cases of cholecystitis associated with mould infection have been reported. We present a case of acute Fusarium cholecystitis in a cytopenic patient with leukaemia who had disseminated fusariosis. We also review the published cases of fungal cholecystitis, which is most often caused by Candida species. Although it is rare, fungal cholecystitis should be part of the differential diagnosis of acute cholecystitis in high-risk patients with predisposing factors for opportunistic fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel D Szvalb
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Infection Control and Employee Health, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Dimitrios P Kontoyiannis
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Infection Control and Employee Health, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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Nynäs P, Vilpas S, Kankare E, Karjalainen J, Lehtimäki L, Numminen J, Tikkakoski A, Kleemola L, Uitti J. Observational cross-sectional study on Symptoms Associated to Moisture DAmage at Workplace: the SAMDAW study protocol. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e026485. [PMID: 31243032 PMCID: PMC6597744 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-026485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Moisture damage (MD) exposure at work has been shown to increase the risk of new onset asthma and exacerbation of asthma. However, most of the studies in this field have been questionnaire studies. A small proportion of MD-exposed workers are diagnosed with asthma. Many patients with MD exposure at work referred to secondary healthcare report intermittent hoarseness, loss of voice or difficulty to inhale, referring to functional or organic problems of the larynx. For accurate treatment, proper differential diagnostics is paramount. We present an ongoing observational study in which we describe the prevalence of respiratory, voice and other symptoms related to MD at work in patients referred to secondary healthcare. Case-control setting will be used to evaluate the frequencies of the background factors, bronchial hyperreactivity and laryngeal findings. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The study sample consists of patients with workplace MD exposure and associated respiratory tract and/or voice symptoms referred to Tampere University Hospital. The clinical tests conducted to the study patients included comprehensive lung function tests, laboratory and skin prick tests, imaging and clinical evaluation by specialists of respiratory medicine, oto-rhino-laryngology and phoniatrics. The exposure assessment was performed by an occupational physician. The study patients filled out a questionnaire on previous illnesses and other background factors, which for comparison was also sent to 1500 Finnish-speaking people in the same hospital district randomly selected by the Finnish Population Information System. To explore how common laryngeal disorders and voice symptoms are in general, a part of the tests will be conducted to 50 asymptomatic volunteers. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The regional ethics committee of Tampere University Hospital approved the study. All study subjects gave their written informed consent, which is required also from the controls. The results will be communicated locally and internationally as conference papers and journal articles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia Nynäs
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Tampere, Finland
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Sarkku Vilpas
- Department of Phoniatrics, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Elina Kankare
- Department of Phoniatrics, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jussi Karjalainen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Allergy Centre, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Lauri Lehtimäki
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Allergy Centre, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jura Numminen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Allergy Centre, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Antti Tikkakoski
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Leenamaija Kleemola
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jukka Uitti
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Tampere, Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
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Grewling Ł, Nowak M, Szymańska A, Kostecki Ł, Bogawski P. Temporal variability in the allergenicity of airborne Alternaria spores. Med Mycol 2019; 57:403-411. [PMID: 30212862 PMCID: PMC6441355 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myy069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The concentration of fungal spores in the air is traditionally considered as a proxy of allergen exposure. However, in vitro experiments have shown that the allergenicity of Alternaria spores varies depending on ecophysiological and developmental factors. Despite the potential clinical significance of these findings, it has never been verified in outdoor environments. This study, therefore, aims to investigate variability in the amount of the major allergen (Alt a 1) released from Alternaria spores in outdoor air. During the 3-year monitoring study (2014-2016), the median seasonal allergenicity of Alternaria spores exceeded 8.6 × 10-3 pg Alt a 1/spore. The most allergenic spores were collected during the driest and the most polluted season (with respect to seasonal concentrations of ozone, sulphur dioxide, and particulate matter). Within the season, daily spore allergenicity ranged from 2.4 to 34.7 × 10-3 pg Alt a 1/spore (5th-95th percentile). No repeatable effects of weather and pollution on short-term variations in Alternaria spore allergenicity were found. However, during the episodes when high-potency spores were recorded, the air masses arrived from eastern directions. Contrary, the spores with the lowest allergenicity were related to western winds. This suggests that factors such as source area (habitat types) and species diversity could be responsible for the varying exposure to Alternaria allergens. Our findings show that high and low-potency spores are recorded in the air; therefore, the airborne concentrations of fungal spores alone may not be sufficient to provide allergy sufferers and healthcare professionals with information about allergen exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Łukasz Grewling
- Laboratory of Aeropalynology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Umultowska 89, 61-489 Poznań, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Nowak
- Laboratory of Aeropalynology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Umultowska 89, 61-489 Poznań, Poland
| | - Agata Szymańska
- Laboratory of Aeropalynology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Umultowska 89, 61-489 Poznań, Poland
| | - Łukasz Kostecki
- Laboratory of Aeropalynology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Umultowska 89, 61-489 Poznań, Poland
| | - Paweł Bogawski
- Laboratory of Biological Spatial Information, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Umultowska 89, 61-489 Poznań, Poland
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fungal diseases are a threat to human health. Therapies targeting the fungus continue to lead to disappointing results. Strategies targeting the host response represent unexplored opportunities for innovative treatments. To do so rationally requires the identification and neat delineation of critical mechanistic pathways that underpin human antifungal immunity. The study of humans with single-gene defects of the immune system, i.e. inborn errors of immunity (IEIs), provides a foundation for these paradigms. Areas covered: A systematic literature search in PubMed, Scopus, and abstracts of international congresses was performed to review the history of genetic resistance/susceptibility to fungi and identify IEIs associated with fungal diseases. Immunologic mechanisms from relevant IEIs were integrated with current definitions and understandings of mycoses to establish a framework to map out critical immunobiological pathways of human antifungal immunity. Expert opinion: Specific immune responses non-redundantly govern susceptibility to their corresponding mycoses. Defining these molecular pathways will guide the development of host-directed immunotherapies that precisely target distinct fungal diseases. These findings will pave the way for novel strategies in the treatment of these devastating infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald C Vinh
- a Department of Medicine (Division of Infectious Diseases; Division of Allergy & Clinical Immunology), Department of Medical Microbiology, Department of Human Genetics , McGill University Health Centre - Research Institute , Montreal , QC , Canada
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Farmakiotis D, Le A, Weiss Z, Ismail N, Kubiak DW, Koo S. False positive bronchoalveolar lavage galactomannan: Effect of host and cut-off value. Mycoses 2018; 62:204-213. [PMID: 30387195 DOI: 10.1111/myc.12867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 10/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Bronchoalveolar lavage galactomannan (BAL-GM) is a mycological criterion for diagnosis of probable invasive aspergillosis (IA) per European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer/Mycoses Study Group (EORT-MSG) consensus criteria, but its real-world positive predictive value (PPV) has not been well-studied. Our aim was to estimate the PPV of BAL-GM in a contemporary cohort of patients with positive BAL-GM. METHODS We identified consecutive patients with ≥1 positive BAL-GM value (index ≥ 0.5) at Brigham and Women's Hospital from 11/2009 to 3/2016. We classified patients as having no, possible, probable, or proven IA, excluding BAL-GM as mycological criterion. RESULTS We studied 134 patients: 54% had hematologic malignancy (HM), and 10% were solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients. A total of 42% of positive (≥0.5) BAL-GM results were falsely positive (PPV 58%). The number of probable IA cases was increased by 23% using positive BAL-GM as mycologic criterion alone. PPV was higher in patients with HM or SOT (P < 0.001) and with use of higher thresholds for positivity (BAL-GM ≥ 1 vs 1-0.8 vs 0.8-0.5: P = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS 42% of positive BAL-GM values were falsely positive. We propose a critical reassessment of BAL-GM cutoff values in different patient populations. Accurate noninvasive tests for diagnosis of IA are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Farmakiotis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Rhode Island Hospital, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Audrey Le
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Zoe Weiss
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Nour Ismail
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Rhode Island Hospital, Division of Infectious Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - David W Kubiak
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Rhode Island Hospital, Division of Infectious Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sophia Koo
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Rhode Island Hospital, Division of Infectious Diseases, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Cornely OA, Mullane KM, Ostrosky-Zeichner L, Maher RM, Croos-Dabrera R, Lu Q, Lademacher C, Perfect JR, Oren I, Schmitt-Hoffmann AH, Giladi M, Marty FM, Rahav G. Isavuconazole for treatment of rare invasive fungal diseases. Mycoses 2018; 61:518-533. [PMID: 29611246 DOI: 10.1111/myc.12778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Data regarding treatment of rare invasive fungal diseases (IFDs) are scarce. We documented the efficacy and safety of isavuconazole for treatment of uncommonly diagnosed IFDs. VITAL was a single-arm, international, open-label study evaluating the efficacy and safety of isavuconazole (200 mg orally or intravenously every 8 hours for 48 hours, then once daily). The primary outcome was overall response at Day 42; key secondary outcomes were overall responses at Day 84 and end of treatment (EOT), mortality at Days 42 and 84, and safety. This analysis includes patients with IFD caused by rare or unidentified pathogens. Twenty-six patients with IFDs caused by rare moulds (n = 17), non-Candida yeasts (n = 2), or unidentified moulds (n = 7) were enrolled (median treatment duration [range], 114.5 [1-496]) days. Overall treatment success was observed in 11/26 (42.3%), 10/26 (38.5%), and 15/26 (57.7%) patients at Days 42, 84, and EOT, respectively. All-cause mortality rates were 2/26 patients (7.7%) at Day 42 and 4/26 patients (15.4%) at Day 84; another two patients died after Day 84. All patients had ≥1 treatment-emergent adverse event (TEAE); 15 patients (57.7%) had serious TEAEs, and TEAEs led to discontinuation of isavuconazole in four patients (15.4%). Isavuconazole may be efficacious for treatment of a range of rare IFDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver A Cornely
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Clinical Trials Centre Cologne, ZKS Köln, and Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Kathleen M Mullane
- Department of Medicine/Section of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Luis Ostrosky-Zeichner
- University of Texas Medical School at Houston and Memorial Hermann Texas Medical Center, University of Texas, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | - Qiaoyang Lu
- Astellas Pharma Global Development, Inc., Northbrook, IL, USA
| | | | - John R Perfect
- Department of Medicine/Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Ilana Oren
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | | | - Michael Giladi
- Infectious Disease Unit, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, and The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Francisco M Marty
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Galia Rahav
- Infectious Disease Unit, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, and The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Caillaud D, Cheriaux M, Martin S, Ségala C, Dupuy N, Evrard B, Thibaudon M. Short-term effect of outdoor mould spore exposure on prescribed allergy medication sales in Central France. Clin Exp Allergy 2018; 48:837-845. [PMID: 29698555 DOI: 10.1111/cea.13160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Revised: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Outdoor moulds are classically associated with exacerbations of asthma. OBJECTIVE The aim of this paper was to examine nasal allergy morbidity by studying the short-term relationship between mould spore exposure and daily sales of reimbursable anti-allergic treatment in central France. METHODS The relationship between daily changes in mould concentrations and daily sales obtained from the national healthcare database was analysed with generalized additive models, taking into account confounding factors such as air pollution, weather conditions, pollen counts, and days of the week. RESULTS During the study, the average total yearly number of treated people was around 10 000 over approximately 230 000 surveyed. The relative risk (95% CI confidence interval) of sales of oral antihistamines with topical treatment associated with an interquartile increase in mould concentration was significant for Cladosporium 1.079 [1.019-1.142] and Aspergillus-Penicillium (Asp-Pen) 1.051 [1.021-1.082] in the whole population. When the influence of age and sex was considered, the relationship was significant only in male children aged 0-12 years and those aged between 13 and 49 years for Cladosporium: 1.256 [1.081-1.460] and 1.151 [1.063-1.245], respectively. The relationship was also significant for Asp-Pen: 1.038 [1.003-1.075] for those aged between 13 and 49 years and 1.056 [1.007-1.108] for adults over 50 years of age. CONCLUSION The association between prescribed daily sales of oral antihistamines with topical treatment sales is associated with temporal changes to Cladosporium and Aspergillus-Penicillium in the whole population. When the influence of age and sex was considered, these two moulds contributed to prescribed medication sales only in the male general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Caillaud
- Pulmonary Department, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - M Cheriaux
- Pulmonary Department, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | | | - N Dupuy
- Réseau National de Surveillance Aérobiologique, Brussieu, France
| | - B Evrard
- Service d'Immunologie, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, INRA, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - M Thibaudon
- Réseau National de Surveillance Aérobiologique, Brussieu, France
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Marty FM, Cornely OA, Mullane KM, Ostrosky-Zeichner L, Maher RM, Croos-Dabrera R, Lu Q, Lademacher C, Oren I, Schmitt-Hoffmann AH, Giladi M, Rahav G, Perfect JR. Isavuconazole for treatment of invasive fungal diseases caused by more than one fungal species. Mycoses 2018; 61:485-497. [PMID: 29611227 DOI: 10.1111/myc.12777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The optimal approach to treat invasive fungal disease (IFD) caused by more than one fungal species is unknown. We documented the efficacy and safety of isavuconazole for treatment of IFDs caused by more than one fungal species. VITAL was a single-arm, international, open-label study evaluating the efficacy and safety of isavuconazole (200 mg orally or intravenously every 8 hours for 48 hours, then once daily) for treatment of rare IFDs. The primary outcome was the overall response at Day 42; key secondary outcomes were overall responses at Day 84 and end of treatment (EOT), mortality at Days 42 and 84, and safety. This analysis includes patients with IFD caused by multiple fungal species. Fifteen patients were included in this analysis (including Aspergillus spp., n = 11; without Aspergillus spp., n = 4); median treatment duration was 97 days [range, 6-544] days). Overall treatment success was observed in 2/15 patients (13.3%) at Days 42 and 84, and 2/14 (14.3%) at EOT. All-cause mortality was 2/15 (13.3%) at Day 42 and 4/15 (26.7%) at Day 84. All patients had ≥1 treatment-emergent adverse event (TEAE); 12 patients (80.0%) had serious TEAEs; TEAEs led to discontinuation of isavuconazole in two patients (13.3%). Isavuconazole may be useful to treat some IFDs caused by multiple fungal species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco M Marty
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Oliver A Cornely
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Trials Centre Cologne, ZKS Köln, and Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Kathleen M Mullane
- Department of Medicine/Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Luis Ostrosky-Zeichner
- University of Texas Medical School at Houston and Memorial Hermann Texas Medical Center, University of Texas, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | - Qiaoyang Lu
- Astellas Pharma Global Development, Inc., Northbrook, IL, USA
| | | | - Ilana Oren
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | | | - Michael Giladi
- Infectious Disease Unit, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Galia Rahav
- Infectious Disease Unit, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, and The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - John R Perfect
- Department of Medicine/Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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Niyibituronsa M, Onyango AN, Gaidashova S, Imathiu SM, Uwizerwa M, Wanjuki I, Nganga F, Muhutu JC, Birungi J, Ghimire S, Raes K, De Boevre M, De Saeger S, Harvey J. Evaluation Of Mycotoxin Content In Soybean (Glycine max L.) Grown In Rwanda. Afr J Food Agric Nutr Dev 2018; 18:AJFAND-18-03-13808. [PMID: 33281893 PMCID: PMC7714182 DOI: 10.18697/ajfand.83.17710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Soybean is a critical food and nutritional security crop in Rwanda. Promoted by the Rwandan National Agricultural Research System for both adults and as an infant weaning food, soybean is grown by approximately 40% of households. Soybean may be susceptible to the growth of mycotoxin-producing moulds; however, data has been contradictory. Mycotoxin contamination is a food and feed safety issue for grains and other field crops. This study aimed to determine the extent of mycotoxin contamination in soybean, and to assess people's awareness on mycotoxins. A farm-level survey was conducted in 2015 within three agro-ecological zones of Rwanda suitable for soybean production. Soybean samples were collected from farmers (n=300) who also completed questionnaires about pre-and post-harvest farm practices, and aflatoxin awareness. The concentration of total aflatoxin in individual soybean samples was tested by enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using a commercially-available kit. Other mycotoxins were analyzed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LCMS/MS) on 10 selected sub samples. Only 7.3% of the respondents were aware of aflatoxin contamination in foods, but farmers observed good postharvest practices including harvesting the crop when the pods were dry. Using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), only one sample had a concentration (11 µg/kg) above the most stringent EU maximum permitted limit of 4 µg/kg. Multi-mycotoxins liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) results confirmed that soybeans had low or undetectable contamination; only one sample contained 13µg/kg of sterigmatocystine. The soybean samples from Rwanda obtained acceptably low mycotoxin levels. Taken together with other studies that showed that soybean is less contaminated by mycotoxins, these results demonstrate that soybean can be promoted as a nutritious and safe food. However, there is a general need for educating farmers on mycotoxin contamination in food and feed to ensure better standards are adhered to safeguard the health of the consumers regarding these fungal secondary metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Niyibituronsa
- Rwanda Agriculture Board, Rwanda, P.O. BOX 5016 Kigali, Rwanda
- Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenya, P.O. BOX 62000 (00200) Nairobi Kenya
- Biosciences eastern and central Africa-International Livestock Research Institute Hub, Kenya, Nairobi, 00100, Kenya
- Department of Bioanalysis, Ghent University, Belgium, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - AN Onyango
- Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenya, P.O. BOX 62000 (00200) Nairobi Kenya
| | - S Gaidashova
- Rwanda Agriculture Board, Rwanda, P.O. BOX 5016 Kigali, Rwanda
| | - SM Imathiu
- Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenya, P.O. BOX 62000 (00200) Nairobi Kenya
| | - M Uwizerwa
- Rwanda Agriculture Board, Rwanda, P.O. BOX 5016 Kigali, Rwanda
| | - I Wanjuki
- Biosciences eastern and central Africa-International Livestock Research Institute Hub, Kenya, Nairobi, 00100, Kenya
| | - F Nganga
- Biosciences eastern and central Africa-International Livestock Research Institute Hub, Kenya, Nairobi, 00100, Kenya
| | - JC Muhutu
- Rwanda Agriculture Board, Rwanda, P.O. BOX 5016 Kigali, Rwanda
| | - J Birungi
- Biosciences eastern and central Africa-International Livestock Research Institute Hub, Kenya, Nairobi, 00100, Kenya
| | - S Ghimire
- Biosciences eastern and central Africa-International Livestock Research Institute Hub, Kenya, Nairobi, 00100, Kenya
| | - K Raes
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Ghent University – Campus Kortrijk, Belgium, 8500 Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - M De Boevre
- Department of Bioanalysis, Ghent University, Belgium, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - S De Saeger
- Department of Bioanalysis, Ghent University, Belgium, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - J Harvey
- Biosciences eastern and central Africa-International Livestock Research Institute Hub, Kenya, Nairobi, 00100, Kenya
- Feed the Future Innovation Lab for the Reduction of Post-Harvest Loss, and Department of Plant Pathology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS66506, USA
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Norbäck D, Zock JP, Plana E, Heinrich J, Tischer C, Jacobsen Bertelsen R, Sunyer J, Künzli N, Villani S, Olivieri M, Verlato G, Soon A, Schlünssen V, Gunnbjörnsdottir MI, Jarvis D. Building dampness and mold in European homes in relation to climate, building characteristics and socio-economic status: The European Community Respiratory Health Survey ECRHS II. Indoor Air 2017; 27:921-932. [PMID: 28190279 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
We studied dampness and mold in homes in relation to climate, building characteristics and socio-economic status (SES) across Europe, for 7127 homes in 22 centers. A subsample of 3118 homes was inspected. Multilevel analysis was applied, including age, gender, center, SES, climate, and building factors. Self-reported water damage (10%), damp spots (21%), and mold (16%) in past year were similar as observed data (19% dampness and 14% mold). Ambient temperature was associated with self-reported water damage (OR=1.63 per 10°C; 95% CI 1.02-2.63), damp spots (OR=2.95; 95% CI 1.98-4.39), and mold (OR=2.28; 95% CI 1.04-4.67). Precipitation was associated with water damage (OR=1.12 per 100 mm; 95% CI 1.02-1.23) and damp spots (OR=1.11; 95% CI 1.02-1.20). Ambient relative air humidity was not associated with indoor dampness and mold. Older buildings had more dampness and mold (P<.001). Manual workers reported less water damage (OR=0.69; 95% CI 0.53-0.89) but more mold (OR=1.27; 95% CI 1.03-1.55) as compared to managerial/professional workers. There were correlations between reported and observed data at center level (Spearman rho 0.61 for dampness and 0.73 for mold). In conclusion, high ambient temperature and precipitation and high building age can be risk factors for dampness and mold in homes in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Norbäck
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - J-P Zock
- Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain
- Municipal Institute of Medical Research (IMIM-Hospital del Mar), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiologia y Salud Publica, (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - E Plana
- Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain
- Municipal Institute of Medical Research (IMIM-Hospital del Mar), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiologia y Salud Publica, (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - J Heinrich
- German Research Centre for Environmental Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - C Tischer
- Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain
- Municipal Institute of Medical Research (IMIM-Hospital del Mar), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiologia y Salud Publica, (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - R Jacobsen Bertelsen
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - J Sunyer
- Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain
- Municipal Institute of Medical Research (IMIM-Hospital del Mar), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiologia y Salud Publica, (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Pompeu Fabra University, (UFP), Barcelona, Spain
| | - N Künzli
- Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH), Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - S Villani
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - M Olivieri
- Occupational Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - G Verlato
- Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - A Soon
- Department of Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Estonian Research Council, Tartu, Estonia
| | - V Schlünssen
- Department of Public health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- The National Research Center for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - D Jarvis
- Respiratory Epidemiology and Public Health Group, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College, London, UK
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Bertumen JB, Schell WA, Joyce M, Alley C, Woods CW. Diagnostic difficulty identifying Apophysomyces trapeziformis septic arthritis in a patient with multiple myeloma. JMM Case Rep 2017; 3:e005075. [PMID: 28348796 PMCID: PMC5343124 DOI: 10.1099/jmmcr.0.005075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Mucormycosis is a rare fungal infection, but can cause substantial morbidity and mortality in both immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients. Apophysomyces is a mucormycetes species ubiquitous in nature, particularly in soil, decaying wood and other organic matter. Apophysomyces is known to cause cutaneous fungal infections, particularly after penetrating trauma. Septic arthritis is a rare clinical manifestation. Case presentation: We describe a case of Apophysomyces trapeziformis causing septic arthritis of the knee of a patient with multiple myeloma. He was treated multiple times for bacterial septic arthritis with minimal improvement. Surgical tissue specimens finally grew mucoraceous mould, and DNA sequencing and morphological assessment of spores identified the mould as A. trapeziformis. The patient was treated with amphotericin B and posaconazole, but ultimately required an above-the-knee amputation for definitive treatment. Conclusion: This case illustrates the need to evaluate for fungal infection in a persistent septic arthritis that is culture negative and refractory to empiric antibiotics, particularly in an immunocompromised individual. It also shows the importance of a thorough social history and adequate tissue specimens for culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Bradford Bertumen
- Duke University Medical Center, 2100 Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Durham VA Medical Center, 508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC 27705, USA
| | - Wiley A Schell
- Duke University Medical Center , 2100 Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27710 , USA
| | - Maria Joyce
- Durham VA Medical Center , 508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC 27705 , USA
| | - Christopher Alley
- Durham VA Medical Center , 508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC 27705 , USA
| | - Christopher W Woods
- Duke University Medical Center, 2100 Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Durham VA Medical Center, 508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC 27705, USA
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Matheson MC, Reece JC, Kandane-Rathnayake RK, Tang MLK, Simpson JA, Feather IH, Southey MC, Tsimiklis H, Hopper JL, Morrison SC, Giles GG, Walters EH, Dharmage SC. Mould-sensitized adults have lower Th2 cytokines and a higher prevalence of asthma than those sensitized to other aeroallergens. Allergy 2016; 71:1701-1711. [PMID: 27333124 DOI: 10.1111/all.12964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence suggests that specific allergen sensitizations are associated with different allergic diseases which may reflect different underlying immune profiles. We aimed to examine the cytokine profiles of individuals sensitized to eight common aeroallergens. METHODS We used data from the Tasmanian Longitudinal Health Study a population-based cohort study of 45-year-olds. Serum cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-α) were measured in 1157 subjects using the LINCOplex assays. Participants underwent skin prick testing for house dust mite, cat, grasses and moulds. Multivariable linear regression was used to compare serum cytokine levels between sensitized and nonatopic subjects. RESULTS The prevalence of allergic sensitization to any aeroallergen was 51% (95% CI 47-54). Being sensitized to any aeroallergen was strongly associated with current asthma (OR = 3.7, 95% CI 2.6-5.3), and being sensitized to any moulds was associated with a very high risk of current asthma (OR = 6.40, 95% CI 4.06-10.1). The geometric mean (GM) levels of Th2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-5 and IL-6) for adults sensitized to Cladosporium were significantly lower than the levels for nonatopic individuals (IL-4 ratio of GMs = 0.25, 95% CI 0.10-0.62, P = 0.003; IL-5 GM = 0.55, 95% CI 0.30-0.99, P = 0.05; and IL-6 GM = 0.50, 95% CI 0.24-1.07, P = 0.07). Individuals sensitized to other aeroallergens all showed elevated Th2 cytokine levels. CONCLUSION Our study is the first large population-based study to demonstrate reduced Th2 cytokines levels in people sensitized to mould. Underlying biological mechanisms driving allergic inflammatory responses in adults sensitized to moulds may differ from those sensitized to other aeroallergens. These findings suggest that it may be necessary to tailor treatments in individuals sensitized to moulds compared with other aeroallergens in order to optimize outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. C. Matheson
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Vic. Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute; Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne; Melbourne Vic. Australia
| | - J. C. Reece
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Vic. Australia
| | - R. K. Kandane-Rathnayake
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Vic. Australia
| | - M. L. K. Tang
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute; Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne; Melbourne Vic. Australia
- Department of Paediatrics; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Vic. Australia
| | - J. A. Simpson
- Biostatistics Unit; Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Vic. Australia
| | - I. H. Feather
- Gold Coast Hospital; Southport Qld Australia
- Bond University; Varsity Lakes Qld Australia
| | - M. C. Southey
- Department of Pathology; University of Melbourne; Melbourne Vic. Australia
| | - H. Tsimiklis
- Department of Pathology; University of Melbourne; Melbourne Vic. Australia
| | - J. L. Hopper
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Vic. Australia
| | | | - G. G. Giles
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Vic. Australia
- Cancer Epidemiology Centre; Cancer Council Victoria; Melbourne Vic. Australia
| | - E. H. Walters
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Vic. Australia
- Menzies Research Institute; Hobart Tas. Australia
| | - S. C. Dharmage
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Vic. Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute; Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne; Melbourne Vic. Australia
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Kuncman Ł, Kozłowski S, Pietraszek A, Pietrzykowska-Kuncman M, Danielska J, Sobotkowski J, Łuniewska-Bury J, Fijuth J. Highly conformal CT based surface mould brachytherapy for non-melanoma skin cancers of earlobe and nose. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2016; 8:195-200. [PMID: 27504128 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2016.61066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Brachytherapy (BT), due to rapid dose fall off and minor set-up errors, should be superior to external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for treatment of lesions in difficult locations like nose and earlobe. Evidences in this field are scarce. We describe computed tomography (CT) based surface mould BT for non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC), and compare its conformity, dose coverage, and tissue sparing ability to EBRT. Material and methods We describe procedure of preparation of surface mould applicator and dosimetry parameters of BT plans, which were implemented in 10 individuals with NMSC of nose and earlobe. We evaluated dose coverage by minimal dose to 90% of planning target volume (PTV) (D90), volumes of PTV receiving 90-150% of prescribed dose (PD) (VPTV90-150), conformal index for 90 and 100% of PD (COIN90, COIN100), dose homogeneity index (DHI), dose nonuniformity ratio (DNR), exposure of organs. Prospectively, we created CT-based photons and electrons plans. We compared conformity (COIN90, COIN100), dose coverage of PTV (D90, VPTV90, VPTV100), volumes of body receiving 10-90% of PD (V10-V90) of EBRT and BT plans. Results We obtained mean BT-DHI = 0.76, BT-DNR = 0.23, EBRT-DHI = 1.26. We observed no significant differences in VPTV90 and D90 between BT and EBRT. Mean BT-VPTV100 (89.4%) was higher than EBRT-VPTV100 (71.2%). Both COIN90 (BT-COIN90 = 0.46 vs. EBRT-COIN90 = 0.21) and COIN100 (BT-COIN100 = 0.52 vs. EBRT-COIN100 = 0.26) were superior for BT plans. We observed more exposure of normal tissues for small doses in BT plans (V10, V20), for high doses in EBRT plans (V70, V90). Conclusions Computed tmography-based surface mould brachytherapy for superficial lesions on irregular surfaces is a highly conformal method with good homogeneity. Brachytherapy is superior to EBRT in those locations in terms of conformity and normal tissue sparing ability in high doses.
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Vallabhaneni S, Purfield AE, Benedict K, Luvsansharav U, Lockhart SR, Pham CD, Pascoe N, Heseltine G, Chung W, Hall E, Brust KB, Wheeler CF, Halpin AL, Park BJ. Cardiothoracic surgical site phaeohyphomycosis caused by Bipolaris mould, multiple US states, 2008-2013: a clinical description. Med Mycol 2015; 54:318-21. [PMID: 26705838 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myv101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Bipolaris mould surgical site infections (SSIs) are exceedingly rare. We describe 21 cases of Bipolaris SSIs in pediatric and adult cardiothoracic surgery patients at ten hospitals in Texas, Arkansas, and Florida during 2008-2013. Median case-patient age was 55 years (range: 3 days-82 years), and 19 (90%) were male. Ten (48%) had coronary artery bypass or valve surgery, and seven (33%) had heart transplantation. Fifteen (71%) had more than one cardiothoracic procedure (median: 3, range: 1-11). Thirteen (62%) case-patients (all 5 pediatric patients, and 8 (50%) of 16 adult patients) had delayed sternal closure (chest closed >1 day [median = 8 days; range: 2-22] following the initial cardiothoracic procedure). Thirteen (62%) had mediastinitis. Median time from initial surgery to positive Bipolaris culture was 20 days (range: 6-497). Sixteen (76%) case-patients died.
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Affiliation(s)
- Snigdha Vallabhaneni
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia Division of Foodborne, Waterborne and Environmental Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Anne E Purfield
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia Division of Foodborne, Waterborne and Environmental Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Kaitlin Benedict
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne and Environmental Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Ulzii Luvsansharav
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia Division of Foodborne, Waterborne and Environmental Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Shawn R Lockhart
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne and Environmental Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Cau D Pham
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne and Environmental Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Neil Pascoe
- Texas Department of State Health Services, Austin, Texas
| | - Gary Heseltine
- Texas Department of State Health Services, Austin, Texas
| | - Wendy Chung
- Dallas County Health and Human Services, Dallas, Texas
| | - Emily Hall
- Dallas County Health and Human Services, Dallas, Texas
| | | | | | - Alison Laufer Halpin
- Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Benjamin J Park
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne and Environmental Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
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Behbod B, Sordillo JE, Hoffman EB, Datta S, Webb TE, Kwan DL, Kamel JA, Muilenberg ML, Scott JA, Chew GL, Platts-Mills TAE, Schwartz J, Coull B, Burge H, Gold DR. Asthma and allergy development: contrasting influences of yeasts and other fungal exposures. Clin Exp Allergy 2015; 45:154-63. [PMID: 25200568 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2014] [Revised: 07/19/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infancy is a developmental stage with heightened susceptibility to environmental influences on the risk of chronic childhood disease. Few birth cohort studies have detailed measures of fungal diversity data in infants' bedrooms, limiting the potential to measure long-term associations of these complex exposures with development of asthma or allergy. OBJECTIVE We evaluated the relation of home fungal levels in infancy to repeated measures of wheeze and development of asthma and rhinitis by age 13, and sensitization by age 12 years. METHODS In the Epidemiology of Home Allergens and Asthma prospective birth cohort study, we recruited 408 children with family history of allergic disease or asthma. When children were aged 2-3 months, we measured culturable fungi in bedroom air and dust, and in outdoor air. Main outcomes included ascertainment of symptoms/disease onset by questionnaire from birth through age 13. We estimated hazard ratios and, for wheeze and sensitization, odds ratios for an interquartile increase in log-transformed fungal concentrations, adjusting for other outcome predictors and potential confounders. RESULTS Elevated levels of yeasts in bedroom floor dust were associated with reduced: i) wheeze at any age; ii) fungal sensitization; and iii) asthma development by age 13 (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.86; 95% confidence interval (CI), [0.75 to 0.98]). Outdoor airborne Cladosporium and dustborne Aspergillus predicted increased rhinitis. Risk of fungal sensitization by age 12, in response to environmental Alternaria and Aspergillus, was elevated in children with a maternal history of fungal sensitization. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Despite the irritant and allergenic properties of fungi, early-life elevated dust yeast exposures or their components may be protective against allergy and asthma in children at risk for these outcomes. Ascertainment of fungal components associated with immunoprotective effects may have therapeutic relevance for asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Behbod
- Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Slavin MA, Thursky KA, Worth LJ, Chang CC, Morrissey CO, Blyth CC, Chen SC, Szer J. Introduction to the updated Australian and New Zealand consensus guidelines for the use of antifungal agents in the haematology/oncology setting, 2014. Intern Med J 2015; 44:1267-76. [PMID: 25482739 DOI: 10.1111/imj.12593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This article introduces the second revision of the Australian and New Zealand consensus guidelines for the use of antifungal agents in the haematology/oncology setting. The current update occurs within the context of a growing population at risk of invasive fungal disease, improved understanding of risk factors, availability of new diagnostic tests, a much-expanded evidence base and changing clinical paradigms. Here, we provide an overview of the history and purpose of the guidelines, including changes in scope since the last clinical update was published in 2008. The process for development, and for enabling review of draft recommendations by end-users and other relevant stakeholders, is described. The approach to assigning levels of evidence and grades of recommendation is also provided, along with a comparison to international grading systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Slavin
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Infection Control, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, East Melbourne, Victoria; Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, The Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Parkville, Victoria; School of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria
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Tham R, Dharmage SC, Taylor PE, Katelaris CH, Vicendese D, Abramson MJ, Erbas B. Outdoor fungi and child asthma health service attendances. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2014; 25:439-49. [PMID: 24902620 DOI: 10.1111/pai.12257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Asthma is a significant global public health issue. Severe asthma exacerbations can be triggered by environmental factors and require medical care from health services. Although it is known that fungal exposure may lead to allergic sensitization, little is understood about its impact on asthma exacerbations. This review aims to examine whether outdoor fungi play a significant role in child asthma exacerbations. Systematic search of seven electronic databases and hand searching for peer-reviewed studies published in English, up to 31 August 2013. Inclusion criteria were study population aged <18 yr, diagnosis of asthma, attended a health service; outdoor fungi exposure was reported. Quality and risk of bias assessments were conducted. Due to significant heterogeneity, meta-analysis was not conducted. Of the 1896 articles found, 15 were eligible. Findings were not consistent, possibly due to methodological variations in exposure classifications, statistical methods and inclusion of confounders. Cross-sectional studies found no or weak associations. All but one time series studies indicated an association that varied between fungal species. Increasing evidence indicates that asthmatic children are susceptible to asthma exacerbations when exposed to outdoor fungal spores. There is limited understanding of the contributions of different fungal species. Research is needed to investigate interactions of outdoor fungi with pollen, air pollutants and respiratory viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Tham
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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45
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Mészáros D, Burgess J, Walters EH, Johns D, Markos J, Giles G, Hopper J, Abramson M, Dharmage SC, Matheson M. Domestic airborne pollutants and asthma and respiratory symptoms in middle age. Respirology 2014; 19:411-8. [PMID: 24517719 DOI: 10.1111/resp.12245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2013] [Revised: 11/28/2013] [Accepted: 12/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The role of indoor air pollution as a risk factor for asthma and respiratory symptoms in middle age is unclear. We investigated associations between indoor air pollution sources and (i) asthma phenotypes and (ii) asthma-related respiratory symptoms in middle-aged adults. METHODS Subjects (n = 5729) who participated in the 2004 survey of the Tasmanian Longitudinal Health Study completed respiratory and home environment questionnaires. Associations between indoor air pollution sources, and asthma phenotypes and asthma-related respiratory symptoms were estimated. RESULTS Recent mould in the home was associated with current asthma (odds ratio (OR) 1.26; 95% confidence interval 1.06-1.50), wheeze (OR 1.34; 1.17-1.54) and nocturnal chest tightness (OR 1.30; 1.12-1.51). Stratified by atopy and gender, recent mould was associated with current non-atopic asthma only in males (OR 3.73; 1.29-10.80). More rooms affected by mould were associated with significant trends for current asthma, wheeze and nocturnal chest tightness. Home environmental tobacco smoke was associated with doctor-diagnosed asthma (OR 1.25; 1.02-1.53), wheeze (OR 1.69; 1.41-2.03), nocturnal chest tightness (OR 1.54; 1.26-1.88), with current asthma only in non-smokers (OR 2.09; 95%: 1.30-3.35) and with current asthma only in males (OR 1.74; 95%: 1.25-2.42). Among heating appliances, reverse cycle air conditioning was negatively associated with doctor-diagnosed asthma (OR 0.84; 0.70-1.00). Neither electric nor gas stove use was associated with either asthma phenotype or with asthma-related respiratory symptoms. CONCLUSIONS In middle age, reducing home exposure to mould and environmental tobacco smoke might reduce asthma and asthma-related respiratory symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desiree Mészáros
- Menzies Research Institute, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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Bot GM, Ismail NJ, Usman B, Shilong DJ, Obande JO, Aliu S, Sale D, Shehu BB. Using the head as a mould for cranioplasty with methylmethacrylate. J Neurosci Rural Pract 2013; 4:471-4. [PMID: 24347964 PMCID: PMC3858776 DOI: 10.4103/0976-3147.120207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Methacrylate is a valuable tool to the neurosurgeon, even though it is currently being replaced by custom bone. During cranioplasty in the absence of custom bone, which is preformed based on the patients imaging, one has to make a cast to cover the cranial defect with or without the use of a mould. A good artificial skull outline is necessary for prevention of implant extrusion and acceptable cosmetic outcome. Using the patients head as a mould is a simple, cheap, and useful technique. An incision is made, and either a craniectomy or an attempt at skull elevation or separation of the scalp from dura is done based on the indication for the cranioplasty. The methacrylate monomer is mixed with its solvent. It is placed in between a sliced glove and then thinned out. Several layers of drapes are placed on the patients head, the acrylate which is in between the gloves is then placed on the drapes. As soon as it starts setting and the required shape obtained, it is removed and place on the sterile tray. It is then anchored and the wound closed. This technique produces good cosmetic outcome. However, the head must be properly protected from the risk of burns from the exothermic reaction. The technique is described in a 40-year-old driver who had a compound depressed skull fracture. He had a methylmethacrylate cranioplasty in the 9(th) week post trauma after allowing for wound healing. We recommend that this technique may be used in centers where custom bone is either too expensive or not available during cranioplasty in order to obtain a good outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. M. Bot
- Department of Neurosurgery, Regional Centre for Neurosurgery, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - N. J. Ismail
- Department of Neurosurgery, Regional Centre for Neurosurgery, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - B. Usman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Regional Centre for Neurosurgery, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - D. J. Shilong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Regional Centre for Neurosurgery, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - J. O. Obande
- Department of Neurosurgery, Regional Centre for Neurosurgery, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - S. Aliu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Regional Centre for Neurosurgery, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - D. Sale
- Department of Neurosurgery, Regional Centre for Neurosurgery, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - B. B. Shehu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Regional Centre for Neurosurgery, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
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Couppé C, Svensson RB, Sødring-Elbrønd V, Hansen P, Kjaer M, Magnusson SP. Accuracy of MRI technique in measuring tendon cross-sectional area. Clin Physiol Funct Imaging 2013; 34:237-41. [PMID: 24119143 DOI: 10.1111/cpf.12086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2013] [Accepted: 08/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has commonly been applied to determine tendon cross-sectional area (CSA) and length either to measure structural changes or to normalize mechanical measurements to stress and strain. The ability to reproduce CSA measurements on MRI images has been reported, but the accuracy in relation to actual tendon dimensions has never been investigated. The purpose of this study was to compare tendon CSA measured by MRI with that measured in vitro with the mould casting technique. The knee of a horse was MRI-scanned with 1.5 and 3 tesla, and two examiners measured the patellar tendon CSA. Thereafter, the patellar tendon of the horse was completely dissected and embedded in an alginate cast. The CSA of the embedded tendon was measured directly by optical imaging of the cast impression. 1.5 tesla grey tendon CSA and 3 tesla grey tendon CSA were 16.5% and 13.2% lower than the mould tendon CSA, respectively. Also, 3 tesla tendon CSA, based on the red-green border on the National Institute of Health (NIH) colour scale, was lower than the mould tendon CSA by 2.8%. The typical error between examiners was below 2% for all the measured CSA. The typical error between examiners was below 2% for all the measured CSA. These data show that measuring tendon CSA on the grey-scale MRI images is associated with an underestimation, but by optimizing the measurement using a 3 tesla MRI and the appropriate NIH colour scale, this underestimation could be reduced to 2.8% compared with the direct measurements on the mould.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Couppé
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Sports Medicine, Bispebjerg Hospital and Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen NV, Denmark; Department of Physical Therapy, Bispebjerg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen NV, Denmark
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Matys R, Kubicka-Mendak I, Lyczek J, Pawłowski P, Stawiarska I, Miedzinska J, Banatkiewicz P, Laskawska-Wiatr A, Wittych J. Penile cancer brachytherapy HDR mould technique used at the Holycross Cancer Center. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2011; 3:224-9. [PMID: 23346132 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2011.26474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2011] [Revised: 12/15/2011] [Accepted: 12/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this pictorial essay is to present the mould based HDR brachytherapy technique used at the Holycross Cancer Center for penile cancer patients. We use images to describe this method step by step.
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Abstract
Background: In the last few years the number of cases of nondermatophytic onychomycosis has greatly increased. Aim: To evaluate the incidence, the clinic characteristics, and predisposing factors of nondermatophytic onychomycosis. Materials and Methods: All collected specimens were analyzed by direct microscopy and culture. Microscopic examination of these specimens was carried out in potassium hydroxide solution (20%) with dimethyl sulfoxide (4%). These specimens were cultured on sabouraud's glucose agar with chloramphenicol and sabouraud's glucose agar with chloramphenicol and cycloheximide. Cultures were incubated at 25°C for up to 28 days and checked twice weekly for growth. Results: Nondermatophytic onychomycosis were 11.5% of all onychomycosis. We found that Aspergillus spp. were the more responsible etiologic agents of nondermatophytic onychomycosis, resulting in a total of 28 patients (59.6%). In our study other causative agents were Acremonium spp. (17%), Fusarium spp. (12.7%), Geotrichum spp. (4.2%), Trichosporun spp., (4.2%) and Scopulariopsis spp (2.1%). In our patients moulds onychomycosis developed mainly in toenails (74.5%). Conclusion: Knowing the exact pathogen is important and has implications in therapy and prognosis.
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