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1.
Circ Res ; 134(9): 1197-1217, 2024 Apr 26.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38662863

ABSTRACT

Ubiquitous environmental exposures increase cardiovascular disease risk via diverse mechanisms. This review examines personal strategies to minimize this risk. With regard to fine particulate air pollution exposure, evidence exists to recommend the use of portable air cleaners and avoidance of outdoor activity during periods of poor air quality. Other evidence may support physical activity, dietary modification, omega-3 fatty acid supplementation, and indoor and in-vehicle air conditioning as viable strategies to minimize adverse health effects. There is currently insufficient data to recommend specific personal approaches to reduce the adverse cardiovascular effects of noise pollution. Public health advisories for periods of extreme heat or cold should be observed, with limited evidence supporting a warm ambient home temperature and physical activity as strategies to limit the cardiovascular harms of temperature extremes. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substance exposure can be reduced by avoiding contact with perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substance-containing materials; blood or plasma donation and cholestyramine may reduce total body stores of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances. However, the cardiovascular impact of these interventions has not been examined. Limited utilization of pesticides and safe handling during use should be encouraged. Finally, vasculotoxic metal exposure can be decreased by using portable air cleaners, home water filtration, and awareness of potential contaminants in ground spices. Chelation therapy reduces physiological stores of vasculotoxic metals and may be effective for the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease.


Subject(s)
Cardiovascular Diseases , Environmental Exposure , Humans , Cardiovascular Diseases/prevention & control , Cardiovascular Diseases/etiology , Environmental Exposure/adverse effects , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Exercise , Particulate Matter/adverse effects , Air Pollutants/adverse effects , Air Pollution/adverse effects
2.
Curr Allergy Asthma Rep ; 24(5): 233-251, 2024 05.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38492159

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: In this review, we detail the exposome (consisting of environmental factors such as diet, microbial colonization, allergens, pollutants, and stressors), mechanistic and clinical research supporting its influence on atopic disease, and potentiation from climate change. We highlight contemporary environmental interventions and available evidence substantiating their roles in atopic disease prevention, from observational cohorts to randomized controlled trials, when available. RECENT FINDINGS: Early introduction to allergenic foods is an effective primary prevention strategy to reduce food allergy. Diverse dietary intake also appears to be a promising strategy for allergic disease prevention, but additional study is necessary. Air pollution and tobacco smoke are highly associated with allergic disease, among other medical comorbidities, paving the way for campaigns and legislation to reduce these exposures. There is no clear evidence that oral vitamin D supplementation, prebiotic or probiotic supplementation, daily emollient application, and antiviral prophylaxis are effective in preventing atopic disease, but these interventions require further study. While some environmental interventions have a well-defined role in the prevention of atopic disease, additional study of many remaining interventions is necessary to enhance our understanding of their role in disease prevention. Alignment of research findings from randomized controlled trials with public policy is essential to develop meaningful public health outcomes and prevent allergic disease on the population level.


Subject(s)
Environmental Exposure , Humans , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Environmental Exposure/adverse effects , Allergens/immunology , Climate Change , Hypersensitivity, Immediate/prevention & control , Exposome , Food Hypersensitivity/prevention & control , Diet , Air Pollution/adverse effects , Air Pollution/prevention & control
3.
Biol Trace Elem Res ; 201(9): 4518-4529, 2023 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37043110

ABSTRACT

In this study, we reported boric acid's protective effects on the quality of nonylphenol (NP)-exposed oocytes. Female rats were classified into 4 groups: control, boric acid, NP, and NP+boric acid. Histopathological studies and immunohistochemical analysis of anti-müllerian hormone (AMH), mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), Sirtuin1 (SIRT1), stem cell factor (SCF) studies were done. The comet assay technique was utilized for DNA damage. The ELISA method was used to determine the concentrations of oxidative stress indicators (SOD, CAT, and MDA), ovarian hormone (INH-B), and inflammation indicators (IL-6 and TNF-α). Boric acid significantly reduced the histopathological alterations and nearly preserved the ovarian reserve. With the restoration of AMH and SCF, boric acid significantly improved the ovarian injury. It downregulated SIRT1 and upregulated the mTOR signaling pathway. It provided DNA damage protection. Ovarian SOD, CAT levels were decreased by boric acid. Boric acid co-administration significantly reduced NP's MDA, IL-6, and TNF-activities. This results imply that boric acid has a protective role in ovarian tissue against NP-mediated infertility.


Subject(s)
Boric Acids , Dietary Supplements , Oocytes , Phenols , Animals , Female , Rats , Oocytes/drug effects , Oocytes/metabolism , Oxidative Stress/drug effects , Sirtuin 1/genetics , Sirtuin 1/metabolism , Superoxide Dismutase/metabolism , Boric Acids/pharmacology , Phenols/toxicity , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Gene Expression Regulation/drug effects , TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases/genetics , TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases/metabolism
4.
Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol ; 43(2): 105-125, 2021 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-33645388

ABSTRACT

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the long-lasting chronic inflammatory skin condition associated with cutaneous hyper-reactivity and triggered by environmental factors. The attributes of AD include dry skin, pruritus, lichenification and frequent eczematous abrasions. This has a strong heritable aspect and typically occurs with asthma and allergic rhinitis. The complex pathological mechanism behind AD etiology is epidermal barrier destruction resulting in the lack of filaggrin protein that can induce inflammation and T-cell infiltration. T-helper 2 cell-mediated pathways also bear the responsibility of damage to the epidermal barrier. Certain causative factors for AD include microbial imbalance of skin microbiota, immunoglobulin-E-induced sensitization and neuro-inflammation. Numerous beneficial topical and oral treatments have been available to patients and there are even more drugs in the pipeline for the treatment of AD. Topical moisturizers, corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory agents such as calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy, cAMP-specific 3, 5 half-cyclic phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitors and systemic immunosuppressants are widely available for AD treatments. Different positions and pathways inside the immune system including JAK-STAT, phosphodiesterase 4, aryl hydrocarbon receptor and T-helper 2 cytokines are targeted by above-mentioned drug treatments. Instead of the severe side effects of topical steroids and oral antihistamines, herbal plants and their derived phytoconstituents are commonly used for the treatment of AD. A clear understanding of AD's cellular and molecular pathogenesis through substantial advancement in genetics, skin immunology and psychological factors resulted in advancement of AD management. Therefore, the review highlights the recent advancements in the understanding of clinical features, etiology, pathogenesis, treatment and management and non-adherence to AD treatment.


Subject(s)
Dermatitis, Atopic/drug therapy , Dermatitis, Atopic/etiology , Environmental Exposure/adverse effects , Administration, Cutaneous , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/administration & dosage , Biological Products/administration & dosage , Dermatitis, Atopic/diagnosis , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Filaggrin Proteins , Humans , Immunosuppressive Agents/administration & dosage , Phosphodiesterase 4 Inhibitors/administration & dosage
5.
Int J Mol Sci ; 21(11)2020 May 29.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32485831

ABSTRACT

Heavy metals are considered a continuous threat to humanity, as they cannot be eradicated. Prolonged exposure to heavy metals/metalloids in humans has been associated with several health risks, including neurodegeneration, vascular dysfunction, metabolic disorders, cancer, etc. Small blood vessels are highly vulnerable to heavy metals as they are directly exposed to the blood circulatory system, which has comparatively higher concentration of heavy metals than other organs. Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is an umbrella term used to describe various pathological processes that affect the cerebral small blood vessels and is accepted as a primary contributor in associated disorders, such as dementia, cognitive disabilities, mood disorder, and ischemic, as well as a hemorrhagic stroke. In this review, we discuss the possible implication of heavy metals/metalloid exposure in CSVD and its associated disorders based on in-vitro, preclinical, and clinical evidences. We briefly discuss the CSVD, prevalence, epidemiology, and risk factors for development such as genetic, traditional, and environmental factors. Toxic effects of specific heavy metal/metalloid intoxication (As, Cd, Pb, Hg, and Cu) in the small vessel associated endothelium and vascular dysfunction too have been reviewed. An attempt has been made to highlight the possible molecular mechanism involved in the pathophysiology, such as oxidative stress, inflammatory pathway, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) expression, and amyloid angiopathy in the CSVD and related disorders. Finally, we discussed the role of cellular antioxidant defense enzymes to neutralize the toxic effect, and also highlighted the potential reversal strategies to combat heavy metal-induced vascular changes. In conclusion, heavy metals in small vessels are strongly associated with the development as well as the progression of CSVD. Chelation therapy may be an effective strategy to reduce the toxic metal load and the associated complications.


Subject(s)
Cerebral Small Vessel Diseases/metabolism , Metals, Heavy/toxicity , Animals , Antioxidants/therapeutic use , Cerebral Small Vessel Diseases/chemically induced , Cerebral Small Vessel Diseases/drug therapy , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Humans
6.
Chest ; 158(3): 913-922, 2020 09.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32330461

ABSTRACT

Approximately 300 million people worldwide are estimated to be affected by asthma, and the number of patients affected is growing exponentially-with potential for an additional 100 million people affected by the condition by 2025. With this increasing burden of disease, there is high motivation to discover effective prevention strategies. Strategies aimed at stalling the atopic progression, modifying the microbiome, preventing respiratory viral infections, and reducing the impact of toxin/pollutant exposure through dietary supplements have had limited success in the prevention of asthma. This is likely because asthma is heterogenous and is influenced by different genetic and environmental factors. Genes underlie a predisposition to asthma and allergic sensitization, whereas exposure to allergens, respiratory infections, and pollution may modify asthma pathogenesis and the variation in severity seen among individuals. Future advances in asthma prevention may include a more personalized approach: genetic variations among susceptible individuals with distinct asthma phenotypes or different biomarkers of disease may help individualize prevention strategies and render them more . In this article, we summarize interventions that have been studied for the prevention of asthma and identify some of the clinical trials that are actively underway in asthma prevention.


Subject(s)
Asthma/etiology , Asthma/prevention & control , Adolescent , Anti-Allergic Agents/therapeutic use , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/therapeutic use , Biological Products/therapeutic use , Child , Child, Preschool , Desensitization, Immunologic , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Humans , Immunotherapy/methods , Infant , Respiratory Tract Infections/complications , Respiratory Tract Infections/prevention & control , Vitamin D Deficiency/prevention & control
8.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32144077

ABSTRACT

Families often struggle to manage their child's asthma. Clinicians caring for children with asthma struggle too as they are tasked with balancing the limited time available in clinic and the need to provide comprehensive care. As a direct consequence, critical gaps in asthma care remain with respect to asthma education and the identification and reduction of environmental asthma triggers in the home. A home visit model that augments clinic-based care is a viable way to fill gaps in understanding, address incomplete adherence patterns, improve disease control by shifting the focus of asthma management to reduction of environmental asthma triggers, and bring cost savings to the health care system.


Subject(s)
Asthma/etiology , Asthma/therapy , Delivery of Health Care/methods , Disease Management , Environmental Exposure , House Calls , Adolescent , Colorado , Environmental Exposure/adverse effects , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Housing , Humans , Male , Organizational Case Studies , Pediatrics
9.
Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab ; 34(1): 101377, 2020 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32081544

ABSTRACT

Many papers evaluated the effect of the environmental, or occupational endocrine disruptors (ED), on the thyroid gland, that can lead to thyroid autoimmunity. A higher prevalence of autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITD) was observed in people living in polluted areas near to petrochemical plants, and in petrochemical workers, but also in area contaminated with organochlorine pesticides, or with polychlorinated biphenyls, or near aluminum foundries. The exposure to Hg in chloralkali workers, or in swordfish consumers has been also found to increase AITD prevalence. Vanadium has been shown to increase the inflammatory response of thyrocytes. A beneficial effect of omega-3 fatty acids, and of myo-inositol and selenomethionine have been shown to counteract the appearance of AITD in subjects exposed to environmental or occupational ED. More large studies are needed to investigate the potential roles of ED in the induction of AITD, and of agents or habits that are able to prevent them.


Subject(s)
Autoimmunity/drug effects , Endocrine Disruptors/pharmacology , Thyroid Gland/drug effects , Thyroid Gland/immunology , Thyroiditis, Autoimmune/etiology , Endocrine Disruptors/toxicity , Environmental Exposure/adverse effects , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Fatty Acids, Omega-3/therapeutic use , Humans , Inositol/therapeutic use , Occupational Exposure/adverse effects , Occupational Exposure/prevention & control , Risk Factors , Selenomethionine/therapeutic use , Thyroiditis, Autoimmune/epidemiology , Thyroiditis, Autoimmune/prevention & control , Vanadium/pharmacology
10.
J Am Coll Cardiol ; 74(10): 1317-1328, 2019 09 10.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-31488269

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Growing evidence exists about the fetal and environmental origins of hypertension, but mainly limited to single-exposure studies. The exposome has been proposed as a more holistic approach by studying many exposures simultaneously. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to evaluate the association between a wide range of prenatal and postnatal exposures and blood pressure (BP) in children. METHODS: Systolic and diastolic BP were measured among 1,277 children from the European HELIX (Human Early-Life Exposome) cohort aged 6 to 11 years. Prenatal (n = 89) and postnatal (n = 128) exposures include air pollution, built environment, meteorology, natural spaces, traffic, noise, chemicals, and lifestyles. Two methods adjusted for confounders were applied: an exposome-wide association study considering the exposures independently, and the deletion-substitution-addition algorithm considering all the exposures simultaneously. RESULTS: Decreases in systolic BP were observed with facility density (ß change for an interquartile-range increase in exposure: -1.7 mm Hg [95% confidence interval (CI): -2.5 to -0.8 mm Hg]), maternal concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyl 118 (-1.4 mm Hg [95% CI: -2.6 to -0.2 mm Hg]) and child concentrations of dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE: -1.6 mm Hg [95% CI: -2.4 to -0.7 mm Hg]), hexachlorobenzene (-1.5 mm Hg [95% CI: -2.4 to -0.6 mm Hg]), and mono-benzyl phthalate (-0.7 mm Hg [95% CI: -1.3 to -0.1 mm Hg]), whereas increases in systolic BP were observed with outdoor temperature during pregnancy (1.6 mm Hg [95% CI: 0.2 to 2.9 mm Hg]), high fish intake during pregnancy (2.0 mm Hg [95% CI: 0.4 to 3.5 mm Hg]), maternal cotinine concentrations (1.2 mm Hg [95% CI: -0.3 to 2.8 mm Hg]), and child perfluorooctanoate concentrations (0.9 mm Hg [95% CI: 0.1 to 1.6 mm Hg]). Decreases in diastolic BP were observed with outdoor temperature at examination (-1.4 mm Hg [95% CI: -2.3 to -0.5 mm Hg]) and child DDE concentrations (-1.1 mm Hg [95% CI: -1.9 to -0.3 mm Hg]), whereas increases in diastolic BP were observed with maternal bisphenol-A concentrations (0.7 mm Hg [95% CI: 0.1 to 1.4 mm Hg]), high fish intake during pregnancy (1.2 mm Hg [95% CI: -0.2 to 2.7 mm Hg]), and child copper concentrations (0.9 mm Hg [95% CI: 0.3 to 1.6 mm Hg]). CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that early-life exposure to several chemicals, as well as built environment and meteorological factors, may affect BP in children.


Subject(s)
Environmental Exposure , Environmental Pollutants , Hypertension , Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects , Blood Pressure/drug effects , Blood Pressure Determination/methods , Blood Pressure Determination/statistics & numerical data , Built Environment , Child , Dichlorodiphenyl Dichloroethylene/analysis , Environmental Exposure/adverse effects , Environmental Exposure/classification , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Environmental Pollutants/adverse effects , Environmental Pollutants/analysis , Europe/epidemiology , Female , Holistic Health , Humans , Hypertension/diagnosis , Hypertension/epidemiology , Hypertension/prevention & control , Insecticides/adverse effects , Insecticides/analysis , Male , Meteorological Concepts , Polychlorinated Biphenyls/analysis , Pregnancy , Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects/blood , Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects/diagnosis , Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects/epidemiology
11.
Public Health Nurs ; 36(6): 806-812, 2019 11.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-31429129

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to report three representative childhood lead poisoning cases in China from domestic products exposure and to highlight their critical implications for practice, education, and policy in prevention and treatment of childhood lead poisoning by health care providers, especially public health nurses. DESIGN AND SAMPLE: Three representative childhood lead poisoning cases occurring in 2017 were collected and analyzed. RESULTS: The lead exposure sources of three cases were evaluated by experts in the field and determined to be tin pots, home factories for tinfoil, and contamination of folk medicine, respectively. These cases demonstrated that the lack of lead exposure risk assessment, insufficient knowledge of potential lead exposure sources, underdeveloped policy, and regulations were areas for improvement. CONCLUSIONS: The best strategies for preventing lead poisoning include an appropriate risk assessment of lead exposure, implementation of comprehensive parental health education, conduction of further research by public health providers, and the application of policy strategies by the government. It was determined that public health nurses are at the frontline of prevention of lead poisoning in children.


Subject(s)
Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Environmental Exposure/statistics & numerical data , Health Education/statistics & numerical data , Lead Poisoning/epidemiology , Child , Child, Preschool , China/epidemiology , Female , Humans , Male , Medicine, Traditional , Parents/education , Policy , Risk Assessment
12.
Glob Public Health ; 14(12): 1770-1783, 2019 12.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-31345124

ABSTRACT

Biomass smoke exposure is a threat to child and maternal health in many resource-limited countries and is associated with poor pregnancy outcomes and serious lung diseases in the offspring. We aimed to assess the feasibility, acceptability and impact of a midwife-led education programme on biomass risks and prevention for women attending maternity clinics in Uganda. Education materials were co-developed through an iterative process by midwives and other stakeholders. The materials were serially tested and approved by the Ministry of Health and used by midwives and village health teams (VHTs). The district health team, 12 midwives and 40 VHTs were sensitised on biomass smoke. Two hundred and forty-four women were educated about biomass smoke by midwives; pre- and post-session questionnaires showed major improvements in knowledge of biomass smoke risks. Qualitative interviews with women three months after the sessions showed that they made behavioural changes such as avoiding smoke while cooking, using dry wood, solar power for lighting and improved ventilation. The major barrier to behavioural changes was poverty, but some improvements cost no money. The programme delivered by midwives was feasible and acceptable; implementing this programme has the potential to reduce exposure to smoke with major benefits to mother, foetus, and children throughout their lives.


Subject(s)
Air Pollution/adverse effects , Biomass , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Health Promotion/organization & administration , Maternal Health Services/organization & administration , Midwifery , Smoke/adverse effects , Adult , Feasibility Studies , Female , Humans , Pregnancy , Uganda
13.
S Afr Med J ; 109(11b): 25-29, 2019 Dec 05.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32252864

ABSTRACT

Even at low levels in blood, lead has been associated with reduced IQ scores, behavioural problems, learning impediments, aggression and violent behaviour. Since the 1980s, the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) has been investigating the sources of exposure to lead in South Africa (SA), the groups at highest risk of lead poisoning and a selection of the myriad associated health and social consequences. SAMRC research evidence contributed to the phasng out of leaded petrol, restrictions on lead in paint and other interventions. Subsequently, childhood blood lead levels in SA declined significantly. More recent studies have revealed elevated risks of lead exposure in subsistence fishing and mining communities, users of arms and ammunition, those ingesting certain traditional medicines, and users of certain ceramicware and artisanal cooking pots. Lead-related cognitive damage costs the SA economy ~USD17.7 (ZAR261.3) billion annually, justifying further SAMRC investment in lead exposure research in the country.


Subject(s)
Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Lead Poisoning/prevention & control , Academies and Institutes , Aggression/psychology , Biomedical Research , Ceramics , Cooking and Eating Utensils , Firearms , Gasoline , Humans , Intellectual Disability/psychology , Lead , Lead Poisoning/economics , Lead Poisoning/physiopathology , Lead Poisoning/psychology , Medicine, Ayurvedic , Mining , Paint , Pica , Puberty, Delayed/physiopathology , South Africa , Violence/psychology
14.
Biomed Pharmacother ; 109: 459-467, 2019 Jan.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-30399582

ABSTRACT

Elicitation by chemical means including heavy metals is one of a novel technique for drug discoveries. In this review, the effect of heavy metals on animal, plants and microorganisms for the production of novel compounds with the unique structures has been discussed. The number of parameters such as metal concentration, type, dose, treatment schedule, duration of metal exposure, and nutrient composition are significant factors altering the secondary metabolites production. The detailed illustrated diagram representing the mode of action of metal stress has also been discussed. This is the first article reporting all the novel compounds produced from plants and microorganisms in response to metal-stress with their pharmacological potential. This new technique opens the new way for drug discovery from natural products.


Subject(s)
Biological Products/therapeutic use , Drug Discovery/trends , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Metals, Heavy/toxicity , Oxidative Stress/drug effects , Animals , Biological Products/chemistry , Biological Products/pharmacology , Drug Discovery/methods , Environmental Exposure/analysis , Humans , Oxidative Stress/physiology , Plants, Medicinal
15.
J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol ; 32(5): 657-682, 2018 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-29676534

ABSTRACT

This guideline was developed as a joint interdisciplinary European project, including physicians from all relevant disciplines as well as patients. It is a consensus-based guideline, taking available evidence from other guidelines, systematic reviews and published studies into account. This first part of the guideline covers methods, patient perspective, general measures and avoidance strategies, basic emollient treatment and bathing, dietary intervention, topical anti-inflammatory therapy, phototherapy and antipruritic therapy, whereas the second part covers antimicrobial therapy, systemic treatment, allergen-specific immunotherapy, complementary medicine, psychosomatic counselling and educational interventions. Management of AE must consider the individual clinical variability of the disease; highly standardized treatment rules are not recommended. Basic therapy is focused on treatment of disturbed barrier function by hydrating and lubricating topical treatment, besides further avoidance of specific and unspecific provocation factors. Topical anti-inflammatory treatment based on glucocorticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors is used for flare management and for proactive therapy for long-term control. Topical corticosteroids remain the mainstay of therapy, whereas tacrolimus and pimecrolimus are preferred in sensitive skin areas and for long-term use. Topical phosphodiesterase inhibitors may be a treatment alternative when available. Adjuvant therapy includes UV irradiation, preferably with UVB 311 nm or UVA1. Pruritus is targeted with the majority of the recommended therapies, but some patients may need additional antipruritic therapy. Antimicrobial therapy, systemic anti-inflammatory treatment, immunotherapy, complementary medicine and educational intervention will be addressed in part II of the guideline.


Subject(s)
Dermatitis, Atopic/etiology , Dermatitis, Atopic/therapy , Emollients/therapeutic use , Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use , Pruritus/therapy , Skin Care , Administration, Cutaneous , Adolescent , Adult , Allergens/adverse effects , Calcineurin Inhibitors/therapeutic use , Child , Child, Preschool , Consensus , Diet , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Environmental Pollutants/adverse effects , Europe , Food Hypersensitivity/complications , Food Hypersensitivity/diagnosis , Glucocorticoids/administration & dosage , Humans , Infant , Infant, Newborn , Phototherapy , Pruritus/etiology , Severity of Illness Index
16.
BMC Public Health ; 18(1): 259, 2018 02 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-29448922

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Exposure to sunlight can have both positive and negative health impacts. Excessive exposure to ultra-violet (UV) radiation from the sun can cause skin cancer, however insufficient exposure to sunlight has a detrimental effect on production of Vitamin D. In the construction industry there are onsite proactive behaviours for safety, but sun-safety remains a low priority. There is limited research on understanding the barriers to adopting sun-safe behaviours and the association this may have with Vitamin D production. This paper reports a protocol for an intervention study, using text messaging in combination with a supportive smartphone App. The intervention aims to both reduce UV exposure during months with higher UV levels and promote appropriate dietary changes to boost Vitamin D levels during months with low UV levels. METHOD/DESIGN: Approximately 60 construction workers will be recruited across the United Kingdom. A randomised control crossover trial (RCCT) will be used to test the intervention, with randomisation at site level - i.e. participants will receive both the control (no text messages or supportive App support) and intervention (daily text messages and supportive App). Using the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) the intervention focuses on supporting sun-safety and healthy dietary decisions in relation to Vitamin D intake. The intervention emphasises cultivating the perception of normative support in the workplace, increasing awareness of control and self-efficacy in taking sun-protective behaviours, making healthier eating choices to boost Vitamin D, and tackling stigmas attached to image and group norms. Each study epoch will last 21 days with intervention text messages delivered on workdays only. The supportive App will provide supplementary information about sun protective behaviours and healthy dietary choices. The primary outcome measure is 25-hydroxy-Vitamin D [25(OH)D] level (obtained using blood spot sampling), which will be taken pre and post control and intervention periods. Secondary outcome measures are two-fold, (1) using the TPB to detect changes in behaviour, and (2) quantifying UV exposure during the UK peak radiation season (April-September) using body-mounted UV sensors. DISCUSSION: This study will provide important information about the effectiveness of a technology-based intervention to promote sun-safety and healthy behaviours in outdoor construction workers. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ISRCTN15888934 retrospectively registered 15.01.2018.


Subject(s)
Construction Industry , Health Behavior , Occupational Health , Skin Neoplasms/prevention & control , Sunlight/adverse effects , Adult , Cross-Over Studies , Diet/psychology , Environmental Exposure/adverse effects , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Female , Humans , Male , Mobile Applications , Program Evaluation , Psychological Theory , Seasons , Skin Neoplasms/etiology , Text Messaging , Ultraviolet Rays/adverse effects , United Kingdom , Vitamin D/analogs & derivatives , Vitamin D/blood
17.
Int Forum Allergy Rhinol ; 8(2): 85-107, 2018 02.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-29438600

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The available allergic rhinitis (AR) literature continues to grow. Critical evaluation and understanding of this literature is important to appropriately utilize this knowledge in the care of AR patients. The International Consensus statement on Allergy and Rhinology: Allergic Rhinitis (ICAR:AR) has been produced as a multidisciplinary international effort. This Executive Summary highlights and summarizes the findings of the comprehensive ICAR:AR document. METHODS: The ICAR:AR document was produced using previously described methodology. Specific topics were developed relating to AR. Each topic was assigned a literature review, evidence-based review (EBR), or evidence-based review with recommendations (EBRR) format as dictated by available evidence and purpose within the ICAR:AR document. Following iterative reviews of each topic, the ICAR:AR document was synthesized and reviewed by all authors for consensus. RESULTS: Over 100 individual topics related to AR diagnosis, pathophysiology, epidemiology, disease burden, risk factors, allergy testing modalities, treatment, and other conditions/comorbidities associated with AR were addressed in the comprehensive ICAR:AR document. Herein, the Executive Summary provides a synopsis of these findings. CONCLUSION: In the ICAR:AR critical review of the literature, several strengths were identified. In addition, significant knowledge gaps exist in the AR literature where current practice is not based on the best quality evidence; these should be seen as opportunities for additional research. The ICAR:AR document evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of the AR literature. This Executive Summary condenses these findings into a short summary. The reader is also encouraged to consult the comprehensive ICAR:AR document for a thorough description of this work.


Subject(s)
Rhinitis, Allergic/diagnosis , Adrenal Cortex Hormones/therapeutic use , Allergens/analysis , Biological Products/therapeutic use , Complementary Therapies/methods , Cost of Illness , Costs and Cost Analysis , Diagnosis, Differential , Drug Combinations , Drug Costs , Drug Therapy, Combination , Endoscopy/methods , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Histamine Antagonists/therapeutic use , Humans , Immunotherapy/methods , Medical History Taking/methods , Nasal Decongestants/therapeutic use , Physical Examination/methods , Plant Preparations/therapeutic use , Probiotics/therapeutic use , Quality of Life , Respiratory System Agents/therapeutic use , Rhinitis, Allergic/etiology , Rhinitis, Allergic/therapy , Risk Factors , Saline Solution/therapeutic use , Skin Tests , Sleep Wake Disorders/etiology
18.
Adv Neonatal Care ; 18(1): 58-69, 2018 Feb.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-29045255

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Premature infants are exposed to high levels of noise in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). PURPOSE: This study evaluated the effect of a relaxing music therapy intervention composed by artificial intelligence on respiratory rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and heart rate. METHODS: A double-blind, randomized, controlled trial was conducted in the NICUs of 2 general public hospitals in Andalusia, Spain. Participants were 17 healthy premature infants, randomly allocated to the intervention group or the control group (silence) at a 1:1 ratio. To be included in the study, the subjects were to be 32 to 36 weeks of gestation at birth (M= 32.33; SD = 1.79) and passed a hearing screening test satisfactorily. The intervention lasted 20 minutes, 3 times a day for 3 consecutive days, while infants were in the incubator. Infants' heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure were assessed before and after each intervention session. RESULTS: After each session, the respiratory rate decreased in the experimental group (main between-groups effect (F1,13 = 6.73, P = .022, ηpartial = 0.34). Across the sessions, the heart rate increased in the control group (main between-groups effect, F1,11 = 5.09, P = .045, ηpartial = 0.32). IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH: Future studies can use this music intervention to assess its potential effects in premature infants. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Nurses can apply the relaxing music intervention presented in this study to ameliorate the impact of the stressful environment on premature infants.


Subject(s)
Music Therapy/methods , Noise , Blood Pressure Determination/methods , Environmental Exposure/adverse effects , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Female , Heart Rate/physiology , Humans , Infant, Newborn , Infant, Premature/physiology , Infant, Premature/psychology , Intensive Care Units, Neonatal/organization & administration , Male , Noise/adverse effects , Noise/prevention & control , Outcome Assessment, Health Care , Physical Examination/methods , Respiratory Rate/physiology
19.
J Acoust Soc Am ; 141(5): 3151, 2017 05.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-28599526

ABSTRACT

The A-weighted sound pressure level (SPL) is commonly used to assess the effect of noise reduction measures on noise-induced annoyance. While for road traffic noise loudness seems to be a better descriptor of annoyance, for railway noise a systematic investigation seems to be lacking. Thus, in this study, the relation between annoyance and perceptually motivated descriptors was investigated for various conditions of binaural recordings of pass-bys of cargo and passenger trains. The conditions included free field and spectral mitigations caused by a 4 m high noise barrier, a 1 m high noise barrier close to the track, and rail dampers. Forty listeners performed a free magnitude estimation of annoyance for different presentation levels and the ratings were fit to various models. Further, level changes required to evoke a noticeable change in annoyance (annoyance thresholds) were acquired. The models based on the A-weighted SPL explained the ratings and thresholds better when the reduction measure was explicitly provided as a parameter. However, the optimal models were loudness-level-based models, which were able to better describe the annoyance, even independently of the reduction measure. Both experiments underline the effectiveness of loudness when describing the annoyance in the area of railway noise reduction.


Subject(s)
Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Irritable Mood , Loudness Perception , Noise/prevention & control , Psychoacoustics , Railroads , Acoustic Stimulation , Adult , Environmental Exposure/adverse effects , Female , Humans , Judgment , Male , Noise/adverse effects , Risk Factors , Young Adult
20.
J Dtsch Dermatol Ges ; 15(6): 602-608, 2017 Jun.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-28513988

ABSTRACT

Aquagenic cutaneous disorders, which include aquagenic urticaria, aquagenic pruritus, and aquagenic acrokeratoderma, are a group of rare diseases characterized by skin lesions or discomfort induced by brief contact with water. Aquagenic urticaria is characterized by pruritic wheals that occur at the sites of water contact, either immediately or within minutes, and disappear within 30-60 min after water removal. Aquagenic pruritus presents with severe pruritus or a stinging, tingling, or burning sensation without any visible skin changes. These symptoms occur immediately or within minutes after the skin is exposed to water, lasting for one hour or longer. Aquagenic acrokeratoderma usually presents with whitish papules and plaques, edema, and hyperwrinkling within 2-20 min after brief exposure to water; symptoms disappear within minutes to one hour after drying. The pathomechanisms of these diseases are not yet fully understood, and their diagnosis is primarily based on clinical features. Treatment remains a challenge. Herein, we review the literature regarding these unusual disorders.


Subject(s)
Dermatitis, Contact/diagnosis , Dermatitis, Contact/therapy , Histamine Antagonists/administration & dosage , PUVA Therapy/methods , Urticaria/diagnosis , Urticaria/therapy , Water/adverse effects , Combined Modality Therapy/methods , Dermatitis, Contact/etiology , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Evidence-Based Medicine , Skin Cream/therapeutic use , Treatment Outcome , Urticaria/chemically induced , Chronic Inducible Urticaria
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