ORCID Profile
0000-0002-6827-6084
Current Organisations
IT University of Copenhagen
,
Københavns Universitet
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Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-10-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S12958-021-00838-6
Abstract: There is evidence to suggest that long term exposure to air pollution could be associated with decreased levels of fertility, although there is controversy as to how short term exposure may compromise fertility in IVF patients and what windows of exposure during the IVF process patients could be most vulnerable. This prospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the impact of acute exposure that air pollution have on reproductive outcomes in different moments of the IVF process. Women undergoing IVF living in Barcelona were recruited. In idual air pollution exposures were modelled at their home address 15 and 3 days before embryo transfer (15D and 3D, respectively), the same day of transfer (D0), and 7 days after (D7). The pollutants modelled were: PM 2.5 [particulate matter (PM) ≤2.5 μm], PM coarse (PM between 2.5 and 10μm), PM 10 (PM≤10 μm), PM 2.5 abs, and NO 2 and NOx. Outcomes were analyzed using multi-level regression models, with adjustment for co-pollutants and confouding factors. Two sensitivity analyses were performed. First, the model was adjusted for subacute exposure (received 15 days before ET). The second analysis was based on the first transfer performed on each patient aiming to exclude patients who failed previous transfers. One hundred ninety-four women were recruited, contributing with data for 486 embryo transfers. Acute and subacute exposure to PMs showed a tendency in increasing miscarriage rate and reducing clinical pregnancy rate, although results were not statistically significant. The first sensitivity analysis, showed a significant risk of miscarriage for PM 2.5 exposure on 3D after adjusting for subacute exposure, and an increased risk of achieving no pregnancy for PM 2.5 , PM coarse and PM 10 on 3D. The second sensitivity analysis showed a significant risk of miscarriage for PM 2.5 exposure on 3D, and a significant risk of achieving no pregnancy for PM2.5, PM coarse and PM10 particularly on 3D. No association was observed for nitrogen dioxides on reproductive outcomes. Exposure to particulate matter has a negative impact on reproductive outcomes in IVF patients. Subacute exposure seems to increase the harmful effect of the acute exposure on miscarriage and pregnancy rates. Nitrogen dioxides do not modify significantly the reproductive success.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2020
Publisher: Environmental Health Perspectives
Date: 08-2021
DOI: 10.1289/EHP8090
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2022.107581
Abstract: Ambient air pollution is an established risk factor for premature mortality from chronic cardiovascular, respiratory and metabolic diseases, while evidence on neurodegenerative diseases and psychiatric disorders remains limited. We examined the association between long-term exposure to air pollution and mortality from dementia, psychiatric disorders, and suicide in seven European cohorts. Within the multicenter project 'Effects of Low-Level Air Pollution: A Study in Europe' (ELAPSE), we pooled data from seven European cohorts from six countries. Based on the residential addresses, annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (PM
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 08-01-2016
Abstract: Public bicycle-sharing initiatives can act as health enhancement strategies among urban populations. The aim of the study was to determine which attitudes and perceptions of behavioural control toward cycling and a bicycle-sharing system distinguish commuters with a different adherence to bicycle commuting. The recruitment process was conducted in 40 random points in Barcelona from 2011 to 2012. Subjects completed a telephone-based questionnaire including 27 attitude and perception statements. Based on their most common one-way commute trip and willingness to commute by bicycle, subjects were classified into Private Bicycle (PB), public bicycle or Bicing Bicycle (BB), Willing Non-bicycle (WN) and Non-willing Non-bicycle (NN) commuters. After reducing the survey statements through principal component analysis, a multinomial logistic regression model was obtained to evaluate associations between attitudinal and commuter sub-groups. We included 814 adults in the analysis [51.6% female, mean (SD): age 36.6 (10.3) years]. BB commuters were 2.0 times [95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.1-3.7] less likely to perceive bicycle as a quick, flexible and enjoyable mode compared to PB. BB, WN and NN were 2.5 (95% CI = 1.46-4.24), 2.6 (95% CI = 1.53-4.41) and 2.3 times (95% CI = 1.30-4.10) more likely to perceive benefits of using public bicycles (bicycle maintenance and parking avoidance, low cost and no worries about theft and vandalism) than did PB. Willing non-bicycle and public-bicycle commuters had more favourable perception toward public-shared bicycles compared to private cyclists. Hence, public bicycles may be the impetus for those willing to start bicycle commuting, thereby increasing physical activity levels.
Publisher: Environmental Health Perspectives
Date: 2017
DOI: 10.1289/EHP220
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 02-07-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVPOL.2021.118631
Abstract: Ultrafine particles (UFP), harmful to human health, are emitted at high levels from motorized traffic. Bicycle commuting is increasingly encouraged to reduce traffic emissions and increase physical activity, but higher breathing rates increase inhaled UFP concentrations while in traffic. We assessed exposure to UFP while cycling along a fixed 8.5 km inner-city route in Copenhagen, on weekdays over six weeks (from September to October 2020), during morning and afternoon rush-hour, as well as morning non-rush-hour, traffic time periods starting from 07:45, 15:45, and 09:45 h, respectively. Continuous measurements were made (each second) of particle number concentration (PNC) and location. PNC levels were summarized and compared across time periods. We used generalized additive models to adjust for meteorological factors, weekdays and trends. A total of 61 laps were completed, during 28 days (∼20 per time period). Overall mean PNC was 18,149 pt/cm
Publisher: American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)
Date: 14-04-2023
DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.22633058
Abstract: Supplementary Figures
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 05-07-2018
Abstract: ufficient s le size and minimal s le bias are core requirements in empirical data analyses. Combining opportunistic recruitment with an online survey and data collection platform yields new benefits compared to traditional recruitment approaches. he objective of this paper is to report on the success of different recruitment methods to obtain participants’ characteristics, participation behavior, recruitment rates, and representativeness of the s le. longitudinal online survey was implemented as part of the European PASTA project, which was online between November 2014 and December 2016. During this period participants in seven European cities were recruited on a rolling basis. For all cities to reach a sufficient number of adult participants a standardized guide on recruitment strategy was developed. In order to make use of the strengths and to minimize weakness a combination of different opportunistic recruitment methods was applied. In addition, the city of Oerebro applied random s ling approach. In order to reduce attrition rate and improve real-time monitoring the online platform featured a participant and a researchers` user interface and dashboard. total of 10,691 participants were recruited. Most people found out about the survey through their workplace or employer (21.5 %), outreach promotion (20.8 %), and social media (17.4 %). The average number of questionnaires filled-in per participant varied between the cities, with the highest number in Zurich (11.0 ± 0.33) and the lowest in Oerebro (4.8 ± 0.17). Collaboration with local organizations, the use of Facebook and mailing lists, and direct street recruitment were the most effective approaches in reaching a high share of participants (p = .001). Under consideration of invested working hours Facebook (p = .001) was one of the most time-efficient methods. Compared to the cities census data, the composition of study participants was broadly representative in terms of gender distribution, however included younger and better educated participants. e observed that offering a mixed recruitment approach was very effective in achieving a high participation rate. The highest attrition rate and the lowest average number of questionnaires filled-in per participant were observed in Oerebro, who also recruited participants through random s ling. The findings suggest that people that are more interested in the topic are more willing to participate and to stay in a survey than those who are selected randomly and may not have a strong connection to the research topic. Whereas direct face-to-face contacts were very effective with respect to the number of recruited participants recruiting people through social media was not only effective, but also very time-efficient. The collected data is based on one of the largest recruited longitudinal s les with a common recruitment strategy in different European cities.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2020
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 25-02-2023
Abstract: In myelofibrosis, the C-reactive protein (CRP)/albumin ratio (CAR) and the Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS) add prognostic information independently of the Dynamic International Prognostic Scoring System (DIPSS). Their prognostic impact, if molecular aberrations are considered, is currently unknown. We performed a retrospective chart review of 108 MF patients (prefibrotic MF n = 30 primary MF n = 56 secondary MF n = 22 median follow-up 42 months). In MF, both a CAR 0.347 and a GPS 0 were associated with a shorter median overall survival (21 [95% CI 0–62] vs. 80 months [95% CI 57–103], p 0.001 and 32 [95% CI 1–63] vs. 89 months [95% CI 65–113], p 0.001). Both parameters retained their prognostic value after inclusion into a bivariate Cox regression model together with the dichotomized Mutation-Enhanced International Prognostic Scoring System (MIPSS)-70: CAR 0.374 HR 3.53 [95% CI 1.36–9.17], p = 0.0095 and GPS 0 HR 4.63 [95% CI 1.76–12.1], p = 0.0019. An analysis of serum s les from an independent cohort revealed a correlation of CRP with levels of interleukin-1β and albumin with TNF-α, and demonstrated that CRP was correlated to the variant allele frequency of the driver mutation, but not albumin. Albumin and CRP as parameters readily available in clinical routine at low costs deserve further evaluation as prognostic markers in MF, ideally by analyzing data from prospective and multi-institutional registries. Since both albumin and CRP levels reflect different aspects of MF-associated inflammation and metabolic changes, our study further highlights that combining both parameters seems potentially useful to improve prognostication in MF.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-11-2015
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 22-04-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJCARD.2015.08.097
Abstract: Renal function, as quantified by the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), is a predictor of death in acute heart failure (AHF). It is unknown whether one of the clinically-available serum creatinine-based formulas to calculate eGFR is superior to the others for predicting mortality. We quantified renal function using five different formulas (Cockroft-Gault, MDRD-4, MDRD-6, CKD-EPI in patients<70 years, and BIS-1 in patients≥70 years) in 1104 unselected AHF patients presenting to the emergency department and enrolled in a multicenter study. Two independent cardiologists adjudicated the diagnosis of AHF. The primary endpoint was the accuracy of the five eGFR equations to predict death as quantified by the time-dependent area under the receiver-operating characteristics curve (AUC). The secondary endpoint was the accuracy to predict all-cause readmissions and readmissions due to AHF. In a median follow-up of 374 days (IQR: 221 to 687 days), 445 patients (40.3%) died. eGFR as calculated by all equations was an independent predictor of mortality. The Cockcroft-Gault formula showed the highest prognostic accuracy (AUC 0.70 versus 0.65 for MDRD-4, 0.55 for MDRD-6, and 0.67 for the combined formula CKD-EPI/BIS-1, p<0.05). These findings were confirmed in patients with varying degrees of renal function and in three vulnerable subgroups: women, patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction, and the elderly. The prognostic accuracy for readmission was poor for all equations, with an AUC around 0.5. Calculating eGFR using the Cockcroft-Gault formula assesses the risk of mortality in patients with AHF more accurately than other commonly used formulas.
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Date: 2016
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 19-10-2021
Abstract: We examined the association of long‐term exposure to air pollution and road traffic noise with incident heart failure (HF). Using data on female nurses from the Danish Nurse Cohort (aged years), we investigated associations between 3‐year mean exposures to air pollution and road traffic noise and incident HF using Cox regression models, adjusting for relevant confounders. Incidence of HF was defined as the first hospital contact (inpatient, outpatient, or emergency) between cohort baseline (1993 or 1999) and December 31, 2014, based on the Danish National Patient Register. Annual mean levels of particulate matter with a diameter .5 µm since 1990 and NO 2 and road traffic noise since 1970 were estimated at participants' residences. Of the 22 189 nurses, 484 developed HF. We detected associations with all 3 pollutants, with hazard ratios (HRs) of 1.17 (95% CI, 1.01–1.36), 1.10 (95% CI, 0.99–1.22), and 1.12 (95% CI, 0.99–1.26) per increase of 5.1 µg/m 3 in particulate matter with a diameter .5 µm, 8.6 µg/m 3 in NO 2 , and 9.3 dB in road traffic noise, respectively. We observed an enhanced risk of HF incidence for those exposed to high levels of the 3 pollutants however, the effect modification of coexposure was not statistically significant. Former smokers and nurses with hypertension showed the strongest associations with particulate matter with a diameter .5 µm ( P effect modification .05). We found that long‐term exposures to air pollution and road traffic noise were independently associated with HF.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2017.04.023
Abstract: Low cost, personal air pollution sensors may reduce exposure measurement errors in epidemiological investigations and contribute to citizen science initiatives. Here we assess the validity of a low cost personal air pollution sensor. Study participants were drawn from two ongoing epidemiological projects in Barcelona, Spain. Participants repeatedly wore the pollution sensor - which measured carbon monoxide (CO), nitric oxide (NO), and nitrogen dioxide (NO
Publisher: American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)
Date: 14-04-2023
DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.C.6599642.V1
Abstract: Abstract Metastases from primary prostate cancers to rare locations, such as the brain, are becoming more common due to longer life expectancy resulting from improved treatments. Epigenetic dysregulation is a feature of primary prostate cancer, and distinct DNA methylation profiles have been shown to be associated with the mutually exclusive i SPOP /i -mutant or i TMPRSS2-ERG /i fusion genetic backgrounds. Using a cohort of prostate cancer brain metastases (PCBM) from 42 patients, with matched primary tumors for 17 patients, we carried out a DNA methylation analysis to examine the epigenetic distinction between primary prostate cancer and PCBM, the association between epigenetic alterations and mutational background, and particular epigenetic alterations that may be associated with PCBM. Multiregion s ling of PCBM revealed epigenetic stability within metastases. Aberrant methylation in PCBM was associated with mutational background and PRC2 complex activity, an effect that is particularly pronounced in i SPOP /i -mutant PCBM. While PCBM displayed a CpG island hypermethylator phenotype, hypomethylation at the promoters of genes involved in neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction and cell adhesion molecules such as GABRB3, CLDN8, and CLDN4 was also observed, suggesting that cells from primary tumors may require specific reprogramming to form brain metastasis. This study revealed the DNA methylation landscapes of PCBM and the potential mechanisms and effects of PCBM-associated aberrant DNA methylation. Significance: DNA methylation analysis reveals the molecular characteristics of PCBM and may serve as a starting point for efforts to identify and target susceptibilities of these rare metastases. /
Publisher: European Respiratory Society (ERS)
Date: 21-06-2023
DOI: 10.1183/13993003.00280-2023
Abstract: Early ecological studies have suggested links between air pollution and risk of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), but evidence from in idual-level cohort studies is still sparse. We examined whether long-term exposure to air pollution is associated with risk of COVID-19 and who is most susceptible. We followed 3 721 810 Danish residents aged ≥30 years on 1 March 2020 in the National COVID-19 Surveillance System until the date of first positive test (incidence), COVID-19 hospitalisation or death until 26 April 2021. We estimated residential annual mean particulate matter with diameter ≤2.5 μm (PM 2.5 ), nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ), black carbon (BC) and ozone (O 3 ) in 2019 by the Danish DEHM/UBM model, and used Cox proportional hazards regression models to estimate the associations of air pollutants with COVID-19 outcomes, adjusting for age, sex, in idual- and area-level socioeconomic status, and population density. 138 742 in iduals were infected, 11 270 were hospitalised and 2557 died from COVID-19 during 14 months. We detected associations of PM 2.5 (per 0.53 μg·m −3 ) and NO 2 (per 3.59 μg·m −3 ) with COVID-19 incidence (hazard ratio (HR) 1.10 (95% CI 1.05–1.14) and HR 1.18 (95% CI 1.14–1.23), respectively), hospitalisations (HR 1.09 (95% CI 1.01–1.17) and HR 1.19 (95% CI 1.12–1.27), respectively) and death (HR 1.23 (95% CI 1.04–1.44) and HR 1.18 (95% CI 1.03–1.34), respectively), which were strongest in the lowest socioeconomic groups and among patients with chronic respiratory, cardiometabolic and neurodegenerative diseases. We found positive associations with BC and negative associations with O 3 . Long-term exposure to air pollution may contribute to increased risk of contracting severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection as well as developing severe COVID-19 disease requiring hospitalisation or resulting in death.
Publisher: American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)
Date: 14-04-2023
DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.22633058.V1
Abstract: Supplementary Figures
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2023
Publisher: Life Science Alliance, LLC
Date: 05-2018
Abstract: It remains unclear to what extent tumor heterogeneity impacts on protein biomarker discovery. Here, we quantified proteome intra-tissue heterogeneity (ITH) based on a multi-region analysis of prostate tissues using pressure cycling technology and Sequential Windowed Acquisition of all THeoretical fragment ion mass spectrometry. We quantified 6,873 proteins and analyzed the ITH of 3,700 proteins. The level of ITH varied depending on proteins and tissue types. Benign tissues exhibited more complex ITH patterns than malignant tissues. Spatial variability of 10 prostate biomarkers was validated by immunohistochemistry in an independent cohort (n = 83) using tissue microarrays. Prostate-specific antigen was preferentially variable in benign prostatic hyperplasia, whereas growth/differentiation factor 15 substantially varied in prostate adenocarcinomas. Furthermore, we found that DNA repair pathways exhibited a high degree of variability in tumorous tissues, which may contribute to the genetic heterogeneity of tumors. This study conceptually adds a new perspective to protein biomarker discovery: it suggests that recent technological progress should be exploited to quantify and account for spatial proteome variation to complement biomarker identification and utilization.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2020
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 23-02-2020
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 26-10-2023
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 06-2017
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 06-05-2019
DOI: 10.2196/11492
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 02-10-2017
DOI: 10.3390/S17102263
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 16-05-2017
Publisher: IOP Publishing
Date: 12-2020
Abstract: Waste-to-energy (WtE) processes, or the combustion of refuse-derived fuel (RDF) for energy generation, has the potential to reduce landfill volume while providing a renewable energy source. We aimed to systematically review and summarise current evidence on the potential health effects (benefits and risks) of exposure to WtE/RDF-related combustion emissions. We searched PubMed and Google Scholar using terms related to health and WtE/RDF combustion emissions, following PRISMA guidelines. Two authors independently screened titles, abstracts and then full-texts of original, peer-reviewed research articles published until 20th March 2020, plus their relevant references. Overall quality of included epidemiological studies were rated using an amended Navigation framework. We found 19 articles from 269 search results that met our inclusion criteria, including two epidemiological studies, five environmental monitoring studies, seven health impact or risk assessments (HIA/HRA), and five life-cycle assessments. We found a dearth of health studies related to the impacts of exposure to WtE emissions. The limited evidence suggests that well-designed and operated WtE facilities using sorted feedstock (RDF) are critical to reduce potential adverse health (cancer and non-cancer) impacts, due to lower hazardous combustion-related emissions, compared to landfill or unsorted incineration. Poorly fed WtE facilities may emit concentrated toxins with serious potential health risks, such as dioxins/furans and heavy metals these toxins may remain problematic in bottom ash as a combustion by-product. Most modelling studies estimate that electricity (per unit) generated from WtE generally emits less health-relevant air pollutants (also less greenhouse gases) than from combustion of fossil fuels (e.g. coal). Some modelled estimates vary due to model sensitivity for type of waste processed, model inputs used, and facility operational conditions. We conclude that rigorous assessment (e.g. HRA including sensitivity analyses) of WtE facility/technological characteristics and refuse type used is necessary when planning roposing facilities to protect human health as the technology is adopted worldwide.
Publisher: American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)
Date: 14-04-2023
DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.C.6599642
Abstract: Abstract Metastases from primary prostate cancers to rare locations, such as the brain, are becoming more common due to longer life expectancy resulting from improved treatments. Epigenetic dysregulation is a feature of primary prostate cancer, and distinct DNA methylation profiles have been shown to be associated with the mutually exclusive i SPOP /i -mutant or i TMPRSS2-ERG /i fusion genetic backgrounds. Using a cohort of prostate cancer brain metastases (PCBM) from 42 patients, with matched primary tumors for 17 patients, we carried out a DNA methylation analysis to examine the epigenetic distinction between primary prostate cancer and PCBM, the association between epigenetic alterations and mutational background, and particular epigenetic alterations that may be associated with PCBM. Multiregion s ling of PCBM revealed epigenetic stability within metastases. Aberrant methylation in PCBM was associated with mutational background and PRC2 complex activity, an effect that is particularly pronounced in i SPOP /i -mutant PCBM. While PCBM displayed a CpG island hypermethylator phenotype, hypomethylation at the promoters of genes involved in neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction and cell adhesion molecules such as GABRB3, CLDN8, and CLDN4 was also observed, suggesting that cells from primary tumors may require specific reprogramming to form brain metastasis. This study revealed the DNA methylation landscapes of PCBM and the potential mechanisms and effects of PCBM-associated aberrant DNA methylation. Significance: DNA methylation analysis reveals the molecular characteristics of PCBM and may serve as a starting point for efforts to identify and target susceptibilities of these rare metastases. /
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-11-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S12940-021-00802-2
Abstract: Road traffic noise has been linked to increased risk of ischemic heart disease, yet evidence on stroke shows mixed results. We examine the association between long-term exposure to road traffic noise and incidence of stroke, overall and by subtype (ischemic or hemorrhagic), after adjustment for air pollution. Twenty-five thousand six hundred and sixty female nurses from the Danish Nurse Cohort recruited in 1993 or 1999 were followed for stroke-related first-ever hospital contact until December 31st, 2014. Full residential address histories since 1970 were obtained and annual means of road traffic noise (L den [dB]) and air pollutants (particulate matter with diameter 2.5 μm and 10 μm [PM 2.5 and PM 10 ], nitrogen dioxide [NO 2 ], nitrogen oxides [NOx]) were determined using validated models. Time-varying Cox regression models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) (95% confidence intervals [CI]) for the associations of one-, three-, and 23-year running means of L den preceding stroke (all, ischemic or hemorrhagic), adjusting for stroke risk factors and air pollutants. The World Health Organization and the Danish government’s maximum exposure recommendations of 53 and 58 dB, respectively, were explored as potential L den thresholds. Of 25,660 nurses, 1237 developed their first stroke (1089 ischemic, 148 hemorrhagic) during 16 years mean follow-up. For associations between a 1-year mean of L den and overall stroke incidence, the estimated HR (95% CI) in the fully adjusted model was 1.06 (0.98–1.14) per 10 dB, which attenuated to 1.01 (0.93–1.09) and 1.00 (0.91–1.09) in models further adjusted for PM 2.5 or NO 2 , respectively. Associations for other exposure periods or separately for ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke were similar. There was no evidence of a threshold association between L den and stroke. Long-term exposure to road traffic noise was suggestively positively associated with the risk of overall stroke, although not after adjusting for air pollution.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2018.04.040
Abstract: Physical activity (PA) in urban environments may lead to increased inhalation of air pollutants. As PA and air pollution (AP) have respectively beneficial and detrimental effects on the cardiorespiratory system, the responses to these exposures can interact. Therefore, we assessed the short-term effects of PA, AP and their interaction on a set of subclinical cardiovascular and respiratory outcomes in a panel of healthy adults: heart rate variability (HRV), retinal vessel diameters, lung function and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO). One hundred twenty two participants measured their PA level and exposure to black carbon (BC), a marker of AP exposure, with wearable sensors during an unscripted week in three different seasons. The study was part of the PASTA project in three European cities (Antwerp: 41 participants, Barcelona: 41 participants, London: 40 participants). At the end of each measurement week, the health outcomes were evaluated. Responses to PA, BC and their interaction were assessed with mixed effect regression models. Separate models were used to account for a 2-h and 24-h time window. During the 2-h time window, HRV and lung function changed statistically significantly in response to PA (METhours) and logarithmic BC (%change). Changes in HRV marked an increased sympathetic tone with both PA (logarithmic LF/HF: +7% p < 0.01) and BC (logarithmic HF: -19% p < 0.05). In addition, PA provoked bronchodilation which was illustrated by a significant increase in lung function (FEV
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2016.09.061
Abstract: Recent developments in sensory and communication technologies have made the development of portable air-quality (AQ) micro-sensing units (MSUs) feasible. These MSUs allow AQ measurements in many new applications, such as ambulatory exposure analyses and citizen science. Typically, the performance of these devices is assessed using the mean error or correlation coefficients with respect to a laboratory equipment. However, these criteria do not represent how such sensors perform outside of laboratory conditions in large-scale field applications, and do not cover all aspects of possible differences in performance between the sensor-based and standardized equipment, or changes in performance over time. This paper presents a comprehensive Sensor Evaluation Toolbox (SET) for evaluating AQ MSUs by a range of criteria, to better assess their performance in varied applications and environments. Within the SET are included four new schemes for evaluating sensors' capability to: locate pollution sources represent the pollution level on a coarse scale capture the high temporal variability of the observed pollutant and their reliability. Each of the evaluation criteria allows for assessing sensors' performance in a different way, together constituting a holistic evaluation of the suitability and usability of the sensors in a wide range of applications. Application of the SET on measurements acquired by 25 MSUs deployed in eight cities across Europe showed that the suggested schemes facilitates a comprehensive cross platform analysis that can be used to determine and compare the sensors' performance. The SET was implemented in R and the code is available on the first author's website.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2011
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2023
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-10-2015
DOI: 10.1038/JES.2015.66
Abstract: People are often exposed to traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) during physical activity (PA), but it is not clear if PA modifies the impact of TRAP on cardiac autonomic modulation. We conducted a panel study among 28 healthy adults in Barcelona, Spain to examine how PA may modify the impact of TRAP on cardiac autonomic regulation. Participants completed four 2-h exposure scenarios that included either rest or intermittent exercise in high- and low-traffic environments. Time- and frequency-domain measures of heart rate variability (HRV) were monitored during each exposure period along with continuous measures of TRAP. Linear mixed-effects models were used to estimate the impact of TRAP on HRV as well as potential effect modification by PA. Exposure to TRAP was associated with consistent decreases in HRV however, exposure-response relationships were not always linear over the broad range of exposures. For ex le, each 10 μg/m(3) increase in black carbon was associated with a 23% (95% CI: -31, -13) decrease in high frequency power at the low-traffic site, whereas no association was observed at the high-traffic site. PA modified the impact of TRAP on HRV at the high-traffic site and tended to weaken inverse associations with measures reflecting parasympathetic modulation (P ≤ 0.001). Evidence of effect modification at the low-traffic site was less consistent. The strength and direction of the relationship between TRAP and HRV may vary across exposure gradients. PA may modify the impact of TRAP on HRV, particularly at higher concentrations.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2022.107241
Abstract: The association between long-term exposure to air pollution and mortality from cardiorespiratory diseases is well established, yet the evidence for other diseases remains limited. To examine the associations of long-term exposure to air pollution with mortality from diabetes, dementia, psychiatric disorders, chronic kidney disease (CKD), asthma, acute lower respiratory infection (ALRI), as well as mortality from all-natural and cardiorespiratory causes in the Danish nationwide administrative cohort. We followed all residents aged ≥ 30 years (3,083,227) in Denmark from 1 January 2000 until 31 December 2017. Annual mean concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM During 47,023,454 person-years of follow-up, 803,881 people died from natural causes. Long-term exposure to PM Long-term exposure to PM
Publisher: American Thoracic Society
Date: 15-06-2022
Publisher: PeerJ
Date: 27-10-2016
DOI: 10.7717/PEERJ.2591
Abstract: The dynamics of speed selection as a function of distance, or pacing, are used in recreational, competitive, and scientific research situations as an indirect measure of the psycho-physiological status of an in idual. The purpose of this study was to determine pacing on level, uphill and downhill sections of participants in a long ( km) ultramarathon performed on trails in hilly terrain. Fifteen ultramarathon runners competed in a 173 km event (five finished at 103 km) carrying a Global-Positioning System (GPS) device. Using the GPS data, we determined the speed, relative to average total speed, in level (LEV), uphill (UH) and downhill (DH) gradient categories as a function of total distance, as well as the correlation between overall performance and speed variability, speed loss, and total time stopped. There were no significant differences in normality, variances or means in the relative speed in 173-km and 103-km participants. Relative speed decreased in LEV, UH and DH. The main component of speed loss occurred between 5% and 50% of the event distance in LEV, and between 5% and 95% in UH and DH. There were no significant correlations between overall performance and speed loss, the variability of speed, or total time stopped. Positive pacing was observed at all gradients, with the main component of speed loss occurring earlier (mixed pacing) in LEV compared to UH and DH. A speed reserve (increased speed in the last section) was observed in LEV and UH. The decrease in speed and variability of speed were more important in LEV and DH than in UH. The absence of a significant correlation between overall performance and descriptors of pacing is novel and indicates that pacing in ultramarathons in trails and hilly terrain differs to other types of running events.
Publisher: American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)
Date: 14-04-2023
DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.22633061.V1
Abstract: Supplementary Tables
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.PRP.2018.05.020
Abstract: Next-generation sequencing (NGS) enables parallel analysis of multiple genomic targets. The increasing demand for NGS-based multiplexed molecular diagnostics requires standardized protocols and recommendations to ensure reproducibility and accuracy of test results for routine clinical decision making. However, the lack of clinical NGS data from multi-laboratory tests and the absence of inter-laboratory comparisons have h ered the establishment of instructive clinical NGS standards. To fill the gap, we set up Proficiency Testing (PT) for inter-laboratory comparison, in which formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded specimens from eight lung and eight colon cancers were analyzed by 15 European molecular diagnostic laboratories on three different platforms using multiple target enrichment systems. We first performed platform, test, and informatics pipeline validation and conducted sensitivity and specificity analysis by random in silico down-s ling. We then implemented a multi-level filtering strategy based on performance tests of base substitution, replicate runs, and Sanger sequencing verified variants. We finally applied the filter criteria to the NGS data from the respective PT participants and obtained high inter-laboratory agreement. We demonstrated accuracy, scalability, and robustness of NGS by means of PT, serving as a benchmark for detecting clinically actionable molecular alterations in research and diagnostic laboratories. In conclusion, this study strongly highlights the importance of establishing standards for NGS-based testing, particularly when the test results impact on clinical decisions, and systematically provides data sets from multiple different labs to infer such standards.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2015.03.036
Abstract: Physical inactivity is a leading cause of death and disability globally. Active transportation such as bicycling may increase physical activity levels. It is currently uncertain whether a shift from motorized transport modes to bicycle commuting leads to increased physical activity overall or substitutes other forms of physical activity. The study aims to disentangle whether bicycle commuting adds to or replaces other physical activities by comparing the physical activity performed by bicycle and motorized commuters. Physical activity, travel behavior, health status, sociodemographic, and built environment characteristics were assessed for 752 adults, between June 2011 and May 2012, in Barcelona, Spain. Statistical analyses, performed in 2013-2014, included linear, non-linear, and mixture models to estimate disparities and the dose-response relationship between physical activity duration and commute mode. Regular bicycle commuters traveled by bicycle an average of 3.1 (SD=2.5) hours in the previous week. Bicycle commuting contributed positively to physical activity duration across participants (p<0.05). It amounted to 2.1 (95% CI=0.84, 3.55) hours/week extra of physical activity for bicycle commuters versus motorized commuters. Among bicycle travelers, there was a positive dose-response relationship between bicycle commuting and physical activity duration, with an average extra physical activity duration of 0.5 (95% CI=0.4, 0.6) hours/week for every additional 1 hour/week of bicycle commuting. Bicycle commuting likely adds to overall physical activity. The extra physical activity performed by bicycle commuters is undertaken as moderate physical activity and follows a sigmoidal dose-response relationship with bicycle duration.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2019.03.032
Abstract: To assess the main and interaction effects of black carbon and physical activity on arterial blood pressure in a healthy adult population from three European cities using objective personal measurements over short-term (hours and days) and long-term exposure. A panel study of 122 healthy adults was performed in three European cities (Antwerp, Barcelona, and London). In 3 seasons between March 2015 and March 2016, each participant wore sensors for one week to objectively measure their exposure to black carbon and monitor their physical activity continuously. Blood pressure was assessed three times during the week: at the beginning (day 0), in the middle (day 4), and at the end (day 7). Associations of black carbon and physical activity with blood pressure and their interactions were investigated with linear regression models and multiplicative interaction terms, adjusting for all the potential confounders. In multiple exposure models, we did not see any effects of black carbon on blood pressure but did see effects on systolic blood pressure of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity effect that were statistically significant from 1 h to 8 h after exposure and for long-term exposure. For a 1METhour increase of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, the difference in the expected mean systolic blood pressure varied from -1.46 mmHg (95%CI -2.11, -0.80) for 1 h mean exposure, to -0.29 mmHg (95%CI -0.55, -0.03) for 8 h mean exposure, and -0.05 mmHg (95%CI -0.09, -0.00) for long-term exposure. There were little to no interaction effects. Results from this study provide evidence that short-term and long-term exposure to moderate-to-vigorous physical activity is associated with a decrease in systolic blood pressure levels. We did not find evidence for a consistent main effect of black carbon on blood pressure, nor any interaction between black carbon and physical activity levels.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-04-2013
Abstract: Bicycle commuting in an urban environment of high air pollution is known to be a potential health risk, especially for susceptible in iduals. While risk management strategies aimed to reduce exposure to motorised traffic emissions have been suggested, only limited studies have assessed the utility of such strategies in real-world circumstances. The potential to lower exposure to ultrafine particles (UFP 0.1 μm) during bicycle commuting by reducing proximity to motorised traffic was investigated with real-time air pollution and intermittent acute inflammatory measurements in healthy in iduals using their typical higher proximity, and an alternative lower proximity, bicycle commute route. Thirty-five healthy adults (mean ± SD: age = 39 ± 11 yr 29% female) completed two return trips, one each in the condition of their typical route (HIGH) and a pre-determined alternative route of lower proximity to motorised traffic (LOW) proximity being determined by the proportion of on-road cycle paths. Particle number concentration (PNC) and diameter (PD) were monitored in-commute in real-time. Acute inflammatory indices of respiratory symptoms (as a scalar of frequency from very low to very high / 1 to 5), lung function and spontaneous sputum (for inflammatory cell analyses) were collected immediately pre-commute, and immediately and three hours post-commute. In the condition of LOW, compared to in the condition of HIGH, there was a significant decrease in mean PNC (1.91 x e 4 ± 0.93 × e 4 ppcc vs. 2.95 × e 4 ± 1.50 × e 4 ppcc p ≤ 0.001), and the mean frequency of in-commute offensive odour detection (2.1 vs. 2.8 p = 0.019), dust and soot observation (1.7 vs. 2.3 p = 0.038) and nasopharyngeal irritation (1.5 vs. 1.9 p = 0.007). There were no significant differences between LOW and HIGH in the commute distance and duration (12.8 ± 7.1 vs. 12.0 ± 6.9 km and 44 ± 17 vs. 42 ± 17 min, respectively), or other indices of acute airway inflammation. Exposure to PNC and offensive odour, and nasopharyngeal irritation, can be significantly lowered when utilising a route of lower proximity to motorised traffic whilst bicycle commuting, without significantly affecting commute distance or duration. This may bring health benefits for both healthy and susceptible in iduals.
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 27-01-2017
Abstract: Physical activity and ventilation rates have an effect on an in idual's dose and may be important to consider in exposure-response relationships however, these factors are often ignored in environmental epidemiology studies. The aim of this study was to evaluate methods of estimating the inhaled dose of air pollution and understand variability in the absence of a true gold standard metric. Five types of methods were identified: (1) methods using (physical) activity types, (2) methods based on energy expenditure, METs (metabolic equivalents of task), and oxygen consumption, (3) methods based on heart rate or (4) breathing rate, and (5) methods that combine heart and breathing rate. Methods were compared using a real-life data set of 122 adults who wore devices to track movement, black carbon air pollution, and physiological health markers for 3 weeks in three European cities. Different methods for estimating minute ventilation performed well in relative terms with high correlations among different methods, but in absolute terms, ignoring increased ventilation during day-to-day activities could lead to an underestimation of the daily dose by a factor of 0.08-1.78. There is no single best method, and a multitude of methods are currently being used to approximate the dose. The choice of a suitable method for determining the dose in future studies will depend on both the size and the objectives of the study.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2015.06.066
Abstract: Air pollution has a proven impact on public health. Currently, pollutant levels are obtained by high-priced, sizeable, stationary Air Quality Monitoring (AQM) stations. Recent developments in sensory and communication technologies have made relatively low-cost, micro-sensing units (MSUs) feasible. Their lower power consumption and small size enable mobile sensing, deploying single or multiple units simultaneously. Recent studies have reported on measurements acquired by mobile MSUs, mounted on cars, bicycles and pedestrians. While these modes of transportation inherently present different velocity and acceleration regimes, the effect of the sensors' varying movement characteristics have not been previously accounted for. This research assesses the impact of sensor's motion on its functionality through laboratory measurements and a field c aign. The laboratory setup consists of a wind tunnel to assess the effect of air flow on the measurements of nitrogen dioxide and ozone at different velocities in a controlled environment, while the field c aign is based on three cars mounted with MSUs, measuring pollutants and environmental variables at different traveling speeds. In both experimental designs we can regard the MSUs as a moving object in the environment, i.e. having a distinct ego-motion. The results show that MSU's behavior is highly affected by variation in speed and sensor placement with respect to direction of movement, mainly due to the physical properties of installed sensors. This strongly suggests that any future design of MSU must account for the speed effect from the design stage all the way through deployment and results analysis. This is the first report examining the influence of airflow variations on MSU's ability to accurately measure pollutant levels.
Publisher: American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)
Date: 07-02-2023
DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-22-2236
Abstract: DNA methylation analysis reveals the molecular characteristics of PCBM and may serve as a starting point for efforts to identify and target susceptibilities of these rare metastases.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2018.06.023
Abstract: In the fight against rising overweight and obesity levels, and unhealthy urban environments, the renaissance of active mobility (cycling and walking as a transport mode) is encouraging. Transport mode has been shown to be associated to body mass index (BMI), yet there is limited longitudinal evidence demonstrating causality. We aimed to associate transport mode and BMI cross-sectionally, but also prospectively in the first ever European-wide longitudinal study on transport and health. Data were from the PASTA project that recruited adults in seven European cities (Antwerp, Barcelona, London, Oerebro, Rome, Vienna, Zurich) to complete a series of questionnaires on travel behavior, physical activity levels, and BMI. To assess the association between transport mode and BMI as well as change in BMI we performed crude and adjusted linear mixed-effects modeling for cross-sectional (n = 7380) and longitudinal (n = 2316) data, respectively. Cross-sectionally, BMI was 0.027 kg/m Our analyses showed that people lower their BMI when starting or increasing cycling, demonstrating the health benefits of active mobility.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2022.153057
Abstract: Long-term road traffic noise exposure is linked to cardio-metabolic disease morbidity, whereas evidence on mortality remains limited. We investigated association of long-term exposure to road traffic noise with all-cause and cause-specific mortality. We linked 22,858 females from the Danish Nurse Cohort (DNC), recruited into the Danish Register of Causes of Death up to 2014. Road traffic noise levels since 1970 were modelled by Nord2000 as the annual mean of a weighted 24 h average (L During follow-up (mean 17.4 years), 3902 nurses died: 1622 from cancer, 922 from CVDs (289 from stroke), 338 from respiratory diseases (186 from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, 114 from lower respiratory tract infections [ALRIs]), 234 from dementia, 95 from psychiatric disorders, and 79 from diabetes. Hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) for all-cause mortality from fully-adjusted models were 1.06 (1.01, 1.11) and 1.09 (1.03, 1.15) per 10 dB of 5-year and 23-year mean L Among the female nurses from the DNC, we observed that long-term exposure to road traffic noise led to premature mortality, independently of air pollution, and its adverse effects may extend well beyond those on the cardio-metabolic system to include respiratory diseases, cancer, neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2015.04.010
Abstract: Walking and cycling for transportation (i.e. active transportation, AT), provide substantial health benefits from increased physical activity (PA). However, risks of injury from exposure to motorized traffic and their emissions (i.e. air pollution) exist. The objective was to systematically review studies conducting health impact assessment (HIA) of a mode shift to AT on grounds of associated health benefits and risks. Systematic database searches of MEDLINE, Web of Science and Transportation Research International Documentation were performed by two independent researchers, augmented by bibliographic review, internet searches and expert consultation to identify peer-reviewed studies from inception to December 2014. Thirty studies were included, originating predominantly from Europe, but also the United States, Australia and New Zealand. They compromised of mostly HIA approaches of comparative risk assessment and cost-benefit analysis. Estimated health benefit-risk or benefit-cost ratios of a mode shift to AT ranged between -2 and 360 (median=9). Effects of increased PA contributed the most to estimated health benefits, which strongly outweighed detrimental effects of traffic incidents and air pollution exposure on health. Despite different HIA methodologies being applied with distinctive assumptions on key parameters, AT can provide substantial net health benefits, irrespective of geographical context.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2023
Publisher: American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)
Date: 14-04-2023
DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.22633061
Abstract: Supplementary Tables
Publisher: Queensland University of Technology
Date: 19-04-2019
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 15-08-2022
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2017.11.024
Abstract: Exposure to air pollution is known to affect both short and long-term outcomes of the cardiopulmonary system however, findings on short-term outcomes have been inconsistent and often from isolated and long-term rather than coexisting and short-term exposures, and among susceptible/unhealthy rather than healthy populations. We aimed to investigate separately the annual, daily and daily space-time-activity-weighted effect of ambient air pollution, as well as confounding or modification by other environmental (including noise) or space-time-activity (including total daily physical activity) exposures, on cardiopulmonary outcomes in healthy adults. Participants (N=57: 54% female) had indicators of cardiopulmonary outcomes [blood pressure (BP), pulse (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV {SDNN}), and lung function (spirometry {FEV An increase in 5μg/m Our findings suggest that increased daily space-time-activity-weighted PM
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 16-07-2019
Abstract: Exposure to air pollution from solid fuel used in residential cookstoves is considered a leading environmental risk factor for disease globally, but evidence for this relationship is largely extrapolated from literature on smoking, secondhand smoke, and ambient fine particulate matter ( PM 2.5 ). We conducted a controlled human‐exposure study (STOVES [the Subclinical Tests on Volunteers Exposed to Smoke] Study) to investigate acute responses in blood pressure following exposure to air pollution emissions from cookstove technologies. Forty‐eight healthy adults received 2‐hour exposures to 5 cookstove treatments (three stone fire, rocket elbow, fan rocket elbow, gasifier, and liquefied petroleum gas), spanning PM 2.5 concentrations from 10 to 500 μg/m 3 , and a filtered air control (0 μg/m 3 ). Thirty minutes after exposure, systolic pressure was lower for the three stone fire treatment (500 μg/m 3 PM 2.5 ) compared with the control (−2.3 mm Hg 95% CI, −4.5 to −0.1) and suggestively lower for the gasifier (35 μg/m 3 PM 2.5 −1.8 mm Hg 95% CI , −4.0 to 0.4). No differences were observed at 3 hours after exposure however, at 24 hours after exposure, mean systolic pressure was 2 to 3 mm Hg higher for all treatments compared with control except for the rocket elbow stove. No differences were observed in diastolic pressure for any time point or treatment. Short‐term exposure to air pollution from cookstoves can elicit an increase in systolic pressure within 24 hours. This response occurred across a range of stove types and PM 2.5 concentrations, raising concern that even low‐level exposures to cookstove air pollution may pose adverse cardiovascular effects.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 09-2018
DOI: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000001632
Abstract: When physical activity is promoted in urban outdoor settings (e.g., walking and cycling), in iduals are also exposed to air pollution. It has been reported that short-term lung function increases as a response to physical activity, but this beneficial effect is h ered when elevated air pollution concentrations are observed. Our study assessed the long-term impact of air pollution on the pulmonary health benefit of physical activity. Wearable sensors were used to monitor physical activity levels (SenseWear) and exposure to black carbon (microAeth) of 115 healthy adults during 1 wk in three European cities (Antwerp, Barcelona, London). The experiment was repeated in three different seasons to approximate long-term behavior. Spirometry tests were performed at the beginning and end of each measurement week. All results were averaged on a participant level as a proxy for long-term lung function. Mixed effect regression models were used to analyze the long-term impact of physical activity, black carbon and their interaction on lung function parameters, forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV 1 ), forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV 1 /FVC, forced expiratory flow (FEF) 25–75 , and peak expiratory flow. Interaction plots were used to interpret the significant interaction effects. Negative interaction effects of physical activity and black carbon exposure on FEV 1 ( P = 0.07), FEV 1 /FVC ( P = 0.03), and FEF 25–75 ( P = 0.03) were observed. For black carbon concentrations up to approximately 1 μg·m −3 , an additional MET·h −1 ·wk −1 resulted in a trend toward lung function increases (FEV 1, FEV 1 /FVC, and FEF 25–75 increased 5.6 mL, 0.1% and 14.5 mL·s −1 , respectively). We found that lung function improved with physical activity at low black carbon levels. This beneficial effect decreased in higher air pollution concentrations. Our results suggest a greater need to reduce air pollution exposures during physical activity.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2017.07.020
Abstract: Until now, estimates of the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) have mainly been produced on national or regional levels. These general estimates, however, are less useful for city governments who have to take decisions on local scales. To address this gap, we focused on the city-level burden of disease (BD) due to exposures affected by urban and transport planning. We conducted a BD assessment using the Urban and Transport Planning Health Impact Assessment (UTOPHIA) tool to estimate annual preventable morbidity and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) under compliance with international exposure recommendations for physical activity (PA), exposure to air pollution, noise, heat, and access to green spaces in Barcelona, Spain. Exposure estimates and morbidity data were available for 1,357,361 Barcelona residents ≥20years (2012). We compared recommended with current exposure levels to estimate the associated BD. We quantified associations between exposures and morbidities and calculated population attributable fractions to estimate the number of attributable cases. We calculated DALYs using GBD Study 2015 background DALY estimates for Spain, which were scaled to Barcelona considering differences in population size, age and sex structures. We also estimated annual health costs that could be avoided under compliance with exposure recommendations. Not complying with recommended levels for PA, air pollution, noise, heat and access to green spaces was estimated to generate a large morbidity burden and resulted in 52,001 DALYs (95% CI: 42,866-61,136) in Barcelona each year (13% of all annual DALYs). From this BD 36% (i.e. 18,951 DALYs) was due to traffic noise with sleep disturbance and annoyance contributing largely (i.e. 10,548 DALYs). Non-compliance was estimated to result in direct health costs of 20.10 million € (95% CI: 15.36-24.83) annually. Non-compliance of international exposure recommendations was estimated to result in a considerable BD and in substantial economic expenditure each year in Barcelona. Our findings suggest that (1) the reduction of motor traffic together with the promotion of active transport and (2) the provision of green infrastructure would result in a considerable BD avoided and substantial savings to the public health care system, as these measures can provide mitigation of noise, air pollution and heat as well as opportunities for PA promotion.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 24-09-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2012
Publisher: WHO Press
Date: 02-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2020
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 04-2015
Abstract: An increase in bicycle commuting participation may improve public health and traffic congestion in cities. Information on air pollution exposure (such as perception, symptoms, and risk management) contributes to the responsible promotion of bicycle commuting participation. To determine perceptions, symptoms, and willingness for specific exposure risk management strategies of exposure to air pollution, a questionnaire-based cross-sectional investigation was conducted with adult bicycle commuters (n = 153 age = 41 ± 11 years 28% female). Frequency of acute respiratory signs and symptoms were positively associated with in-commute and postcommute compared with precommute time periods ( P .05) there was greater positive association with respiratory disorder compared with healthy, and female compared with male, participants. The perception (but not signs or symptoms) of in-commute exposure to air pollution was positively associated with the estimated level of in-commute proximity to motorized traffic. The majority of participants indicated a willingness (which varied with health status and gender) to adopt risk management strategies (with desired features) if shown to be appropriate and effective. While acute signs and symptoms of air pollution exposure are indicated with bicycle commuting, and more so in susceptible in iduals, there is willingness to manage exposure risk by adopting effective strategies with desired features.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2016.10.011
Abstract: Physical activity (PA) has beneficial, whereas exposure to traffic related air pollution (TRAP) has adverse, respiratory effects. Few studies, however, have examined if the acute effects of TRAP upon respiratory outcomes are modified depending on the level of PA. The aim of our study was to disentangle acute effects of TRAP and PA upon respiratory outcomes and assess the impact of participants TRAP pre-exposure. We conducted a real-world crossover study with repeated measures of 30 healthy adults. Participants completed four 2-h exposure scenarios that included either rest or intermittent exercise in high- and low-traffic environments. Measures of respiratory function were collected at three time points. Pre-exposure to TRAP was ascertained from land-use-modeled address-attributed values. Mixed-effects models were used to estimate the impact of TRAP and PA on respiratory measures as well as potential effect modifications. We found that PA was associated with a statistically significant increases of FEV Our results suggest that associations between various pollutant exposures and respiratory measures are modified by the level of PA during exposure and TRAP pre-exposure of participants.
Publisher: European Respiratory Society (ERS)
Date: 13-05-2021
DOI: 10.1183/13993003.04594-2020
Abstract: While air pollution has been linked to the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), evidence on the role of environmental noise is just emerging. We examined the associations of long-term exposure to air pollution and road traffic noise with COPD incidence. We defined COPD incidence for 24 538 female nurses from the Danish Nurse Cohort (age years) as the first hospital contact between baseline (1993 or 1999) and 2015. We estimated residential annual mean concentrations of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter .5 µm (PM 2.5 ) since 1990 and nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ) since 1970 using the Danish Eulerian Hemispheric Model/Urban Background Model/Air Geographic Information System modelling system, and road traffic noise (L den ) since 1970 using the Nord2000 model. Time-varying Cox regression models were applied to assess the associations of air pollution and road traffic noise with COPD incidence. 977 nurses developed COPD during a mean of 18.6 years’ follow-up. We observed associations with COPD for all three exposures with HRs and 95% CIs of 1.19 (1.01–1.41) per 6.26 µg·m −3 for PM 2.5 , 1.13 (1.05–1.20) per 8.19 µg·m −3 for NO 2 and 1.15 (1.06–1.25) per 10 dB for L den . Associations with NO 2 and L den attenuated slightly after mutual adjustment, but were robust to adjustment for PM 2.5 . Associations with PM 2.5 were attenuated to null after adjustment for either NO 2 or L den . No potential interaction effect was observed between air pollutants and noise. Long-term exposure to air pollution, especially traffic-related NO 2 , and to road traffic noise were independently associated with COPD.
No related grants have been discovered for Thomas Cole-Hunter.