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Formaldehyde (FA) is a ubiquitous toxic chemical employed worldwide due to its disinfectant and preservative properties. Despite being classified as a human carcinogen, FA is still employed as formalin in pathology wards as standard fixative. We evaluated its relationship with the formation of sister-chromatid exchanges (SCEs) in cultured peripheral blood lymphocytes on 57 pathologists and 48 controls and the risk/protective role played by several genetic polymorphisms. All subjects were assessed for SCEs and genotyped for the most common cancer-associated gene polymorphisms: CYP1A1 exon 7 (A > G), CYP1A1*2A (T > C), CYP2C19*2 (G > A), GSTT1 (presence/absence), GSTM1 (presence/absence), GSTP1 (A > G), XRCC1 (G399A), XRCC1 (C194T), XRCC1 (A280G), XPC exon 15 (A939C), XPC exon 9 (C499T), TNFα − 308 G > A), IL10 − 1082 (G > A), and IL6 − 174 (G > C). Air-FA concentration was assessed through passive personal samplers. Pathologists, exposed to 55.2 μg/m3 of air-FA, showed a significantly higher SCEs frequency than controls, exposed, respectively, to 18.4 μg/m3. Air-FA was directly correlated with SCEs frequency and inversely with the replication index (RI). Regression models showed FA exposure as a significant predictor in developing SCEs, while did not highlight any role of the selected polymorphisms. Our study confirms the role of low air-FA levels as genotoxicity inductor, highlighting the importance to define exposure limits that could be safer for exposed workers.

Preterm birth (PTB) identifies infants prematurely born

Aging, a natural multifactorial process, increases Oxidative Stress (OS) and inflammatory responses. Sexual hormones could upregulate OS during lifespan, with opposite systemic effects: anti-oxidant protection and cellular pro-oxidant toxicity. Hormonal changes are crucial phases in human growth and aging, but their mediating role on OS is still incomplete. The main purpose of this work was to analyze the trend of OS during the lifespan and, in particular, during puberty and menopause. Data from standardized questionnaires and biological OS measurements (15-F2t-Isop) of 815 subjects (7–60 years old) from five previous studies (2009–2015) were analyzed. The age variable was categorized into two hormonal age windows: puberty and menopause. A regression model was performed to assess the association between 15-F2t-Isop and the hormonal age window, sex, weight, and smoking habits. The results showed a significant V-shape decrease of OS levels both during puberty [OR = −0.06 95% CI −0.07–−0.04, p = 0.41] and in menopause [OR = −1.01 95% CI −1.5–−0.5, p < 0.001], but only in females. Our results support the view that hormones, and specifically estrogen, could modulate OS, especially during puberty and menopause. The V-shape decreasing trend of OS may be related to intrinsic characteristics of estrogen, which is able to modulate and upregulate OS pro- and anti-oxidant mechanisms.

Exposure to metal oxides nanomaterials (NMs) might trigger adverse health effects. NMs can generate Oxidative Stress (OS), causing redox effects detectable in urine through suitable biomarkers. We evaluated the cross-sectional association of urinary OS biomarkers with urinary metal concentrations, using data collected in the multicenter international study NanoExplore. One hundred forty-one workers were recruited at three R&D and four industrial facilities employing NMs in different processes (paints/coating[PC];construction chemicals[CC]). Only 129 workers had complete data and, based on the personal work-shift exposure to NMs, they were classified as unexposed workers (n=41), workers with negligible/low exposure (n=37), and with moderate/high exposure (n=51). OS biomarkers (IsoP,MDA,TAP) and metals (27Al,47Ti,52Cr,118Sn) were quantified in urine samples collected before and after exposure monitoring campaign (2-4 work-shifts). Between-group comparisons were performed with non-parametric tests according to the data distribution. Highly exposed workers had significantly higher pro-oxidant (IsoP and MDA,p

The production of paints, coatings and construction materials may generate nanoparticles (NP) with potential adverse health effects. We carried out a study aimed at investigating exposure biomarkers reflecting the internal dose of inhaled particles and NP. NTA was used to quantify particle number concentration and size in EBC collected at the end of shift in 81 workers employed in companies producing technological materials. External exposure was characterized in terms of particle number concentration, size and lung deposited surface area (LDSA) in the near operational field by using a set of DiSCmini. Three subgroups were identified: Low-Exposure (LE, n=30), High-Exposure (HE n=35), and non-occupationally exposed (UC, n=16). Comparisons between groups were made using non-parametric analyses. LE and HE workers showed significantly higher number of NP in EBC (p=0.024, p=0.041, respectively) as compared to UC. The HE groups showed higher levels of inflammatory biomarkers, such as IL-1β and IL-10 as compared to LE and UC (p=0.02, p

Exposure to nanomaterials (NMs) may harm biological systems by altering the redox status and triggering inflammatory processes, which in turn may affect respiratory health. In the NanoExplore cohort of 141 workers, we observed a positive dose-response relationship between the short-term exposure to NMs and biomarkers of inflammation, measured in Exhaled Breath Condensate (EBC), but no relationship with lung function parameters (LFP). This study focuses on the association between cumulative exposure to NMs over the last 10 years and changes in LFP and the potential mediating role of airways inflammation. Individual cumulative exposure was estimated by multiplying the nanoparticle concentration, measured at workers’ workstations by DiSCmini, by the duration of worker’s employment at the corresponding workstation up to last 10 years. In EBC, we measured High-Sensitivity CRP (Hs-CRP), IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-10 as biomarkers of inflammation. LFP were assessed according to ATS/ERS standards. Their association with cumulative exposure was examined using logistic regression models adjusted for tobacco consumption (in pack-years), among 136 workers with complete data (19-62 yrs., 70% males). We found that per unit increase in 10-year exposure, the risk of observing FEV1 values below the normal limit increases by 0.3% (95%CI: 1.000-1.005, p=0.049) and by 0.8% (95%CI: 1.000-1.015, p=0.039) with the exposure expressed as number of particles and lung deposited surface area, respectively. The ongoing mediation analysis will investigate the potential mediating role of inflammation in the association between cumulative exposure to NMs and lung function

Working life is characterised by various requirements and degrees of control in meeting these demands. The imbalance of these elements with workers’ resources can result in work-related stress involving the repeated activation of stress response systems. Modifications in the bio-molecular profile may represent a biological signature of individuals’ life experiences and provide evidence on pathways through which such stressors can result in health outcomes. The aim of our systematic review is to characterize the quality of life (QOL) and the bio-molecular profile in the working population, to highlight if the alteration observed might be related to the working conditions. The article query was performed on PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL and results have been presented according to three molecular pathways involved in the stress response: oxidative stress, inflammation, and neuroendocrine activation. The epidemiological sample has been sub-grouped into “clinical” and “non-clinical” populations according to the presence of a diagnosis of psychological disorders. Besides some critical issues, the review highlights the importance of developing a valid array of biological indicators, measurable in non-invasive matrices, sensitive to both derangements from physiological conditions and stress reduction, useful for identifying those groups at higher risk of health outcomes and, eventually, promoting workers’ wellbeing.

Multiple sclerosis does not seem to adversely affect fetal and neonatal outcomes, although some studies reported a possible reduction in mean birth weight and length, and a higher incidence of preterm delivery, mainly in relation to the exposure to disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) during pregnancy. Few data are available on intrauterine fetal growth and postnatal somatic development of newborns from mothers with multiple sclerosis compared to those from healthy women. For these reasons, we decided to investigate fetal growth, neonatal anthropometric parameters, and postnatal somatic development up to 12 months of life in offsprings from MS mothers.This retrospective cohort study included 211 women with multiple sclerosis, and 384 healthy women paired for maternal age and parity as controls. Fetal biometric parameters (biparietal diameter, head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length) measured during the third trimester of pregnancy (30-34 weeks' gestation) were retrieved from the computerized database of the Department (EcoPlus*) where the results of ultrasound exams performed in the hospital are stored. Newborn measurements (weight, length and head circumference) at birth were obtained from the hospital's computerized obstetric and neonatal database (Trackare* and Remote* data base); measurements at 6 and 12 months of life were obtained from the regional database (ECWMED*) of family pediatricians of our region.No differences between the two groups were observed for all the fetal parameters considered, expressed as centiles of growth according to gestational age (biparietal diameter: p = 0.40; head circumference: p = 0.40; abdominal circumference: p = 0.32; femur length: p = 0.32). No differences in gestational age at delivery, birthweight, and in the incidence of low birthweight and small for gestational age newborns were observed between the two groups. In the multiple sclerosis group a significantly higher incidence of caesarean section (p = 0.01) and late preterm delivery (at less than 37 weeks'gestation, p = 0.001) were registered. The trends of postnatal growth in weight (F = 0.53; p-value = 0.590) and length (F = 0.44; p-value = 0.645) were superimposable between the two groups. The trends of growth for head circumference showed a slightly, not significantly greater head circumference of infants from mothers with multiple sclerosis at 6 months of life, but the values at twelve months of life in the two groups were similar (F = 0.85; p-value = 0.427) . Moreover, the trends of postnatal increase of weight (F = 1.016; p-value = 0.331), length (F = 2.001; p-value = 0.146) and head circumference (F = 1.591; p-value = 0.212) of newborns/infants (from birth to twelve months of life) born to mothers with multiple sclerosis who breastfed, mothers who did not, and in the control group were similar.Multiple sclerosis in pregnancy does not seem to affect fetal growth and postnatal development during the first year of the offspring life. We think that these results represent an important and reassuring information to provide the patients with during preconception counseling.

Residential greenness exposure has been reported to positively impact health mainly by reducing overweight/obesity risk, improving mental health and physical activity. Less is known on biological pathways involved in these health benefits. We aimed to investigate the association between multisite greenness exposure and oxidative stress in children and explore the potential mediating role of physical activity in this association. This cross-sectional study involved 323 healthy subjects (8-11 y) from five schools in Asti (Italy). Children's parents filled a questionnaire providing the residential address, parental education, and physical activity frequency. Oxidative stress was quantified in spot urine by isoprostane (15-F

Despite the toxicity and health risk characteristics of formaldehyde (FA), it is currently used as a cytological fixative and the definition of safe exposure levels is still a matter of debate. Our aim was to investigate the alterations in both oxidative and inflammatory status in a hospital working population. The 68 workers recruited wore a personal air-FA passive sampler, provided a urine sample to measure 15-F2t-Isoprostane (15-F2t-IsoP) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and a blood specimen to measure tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα). Subjects were also genotyped for GSTT1 (Presence/Absence), GSTM1 (Presence/Absence), CYP1A1 exon 7 (A &gt, G), and IL6 (−174, G &gt, C). Workers were ex post split into formalin-employers (57.3 μg/m3) and non-employers (13.5 μg/m3). In the formalin-employers group we assessed significantly higher levels of 15-F2t-IsoP, MDA and TNFα (&lt, 0.001) in comparison to the non-employers group. The air-FA levels turned out to be positively correlated with 15-F2t-IsoP (p = 0.027) and MDA (p &lt, 0.001). In the formalin-employers group the MDA level was significantly higher in GSTT1 Null (p = 0.038), GSTM1 Null (p = 0.031), and CYP1A1 exon 7 mutation carrier (p = 0.008) workers, compared to the wild type subjects. This study confirms the role of FA in biomolecular profiles alterations, highlighting how low occupational exposure can also result in measurable biological outcomes.

Wood dust is one of the most common occupational exposures, with about 3.6 million of workers in the wood industry in Europe. Wood particles can deposit in the nose and the respiratory tract and cause adverse health effects. Occupational exposure to wood dust has been associated with malignant tumors of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. The induction of oxidative stress and the generation of reactive oxygen species through activation of inflammatory cells could have a role in the carcinogenicity of respirable wood dust. Therefore, we conducted a cross-sectional study to evaluate the prevalence of urinary 15-F2t isoprostane (15-F2t-IsoP), a biomarker of oxidative stress and peroxidation of lipids, in 123 wood workers compared to 57 unexposed controls living in Tuscany region, Italy. 15-F2t-IsoP generation was measured by ELISA. The main result of the present study showed that a statistically significant excess of this biomarker occurred in the workers exposed to 1.48 mg/m3 of airborne wood dust with respect to the unexposed controls. The overall mean ratio (MR) between the workers exposed to wood dust and the controls was 1.36, 95% Confidence Interval (C.I.) 1.18–1.57, after correction for age and smoking habits. A significant increment of 15-F2t-IsoP (43%) was observed in the smokers as compared to the non-smokers. The urinary excretion of 15-F2t-IsoP was significantly associated with co-exposure to organic solvents, i.e., MR of 1.41, 95% C.I. 1.17–1.70, after adjustment for age and smoking habits. A 41% excess was observed in long-term wood workers, 95% C.I. 1.14–1.75. Multivariate regression analysis showed that the level of 15-F2t-IsoP was linearly correlated to the length of exposure, regression coefficient (β) = 0.244 ± 0.002 (SE). The overall increment by exposure group persisted after stratification for smoking habits. For instance, in smokers, a 53% excess was detected in the wood workers as compared to the controls, 95% C.I. 1.23–1.91. Our data support the hypothesis that oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation can have a role in the toxicity of wood dust F2-IsoP measure can be a tool for the evaluation of the effectiveness of targeted interventions aimed to reduce exposures to environmental carcinogens.

Formaldehyde (FA) is a human carcinogen used as formalin in hospital laboratories. We evaluated its association with human chromosomal aberrations (CAs) and the risk/protective role played by several genetic polymorphisms in this relationship, on a cohort of 57 exposed pathologists vs 48 controls. All subjects were assessed for CAs on peripheral blood lymphocytes and genotyped for the most common cancer-associated gene polymorphisms which could be related with the genotoxic outcome: CYP1A1 exon 7 (A>G), CYP1A1*2A (T>C), CYP2C19*2 (G>A), GSTT1 (Positive/Null), GSTM1 (Positive/null), GSTP1 (A>G), XRCC1 (G399A), XRCC1 (C194T), XRCC1 (A280G), XPD (A751C), XPC exon 15 (A939C), XPC exon 9 (C499T), TNFα − 308 (G>A), IL10 − 1082 (G>A), IL10 − 819 (C>T) and IL6 − 174 (G>C). Air-FA concentration was assessed through personal samplers. The comparison between pathologists and controls showed a significantly higher CAs frequency in pathologists. Significant positive correlations were found between CAs frequency and air-FA concentration while significant associations were found between variation in CAs frequency and the mutated allele for CYP1A1 exon 7 (A>G), CYP2C19*2 (G>A), GSTT1-positive, GSTM1-positive and XRCC1 (G399A). Our study confirms the role of FA as genotoxicity inductor, even in workers chronically exposed to low air-FA levels and reveals the role played by some genetic polymorphisms in this association, highlighting the importance of individual susceptibility biomarkers assessment in occupational health studies.

Background Many workers are exposed to wood dust (WD) and formaldehyde (FA), whose carcinogenic activity is supposed to be oxidative stress-mediated. This study aims to assess to what extent the occupational exposure to WD and FA, albeit within regulatory limits, could result in OS induction in a woodworkers’ population. Methods The sample population consisted of 127 woodworkers from 4 factories and 111 unexposed controls. Individual exposure was assessed by personal air-samplers. Each participant enrolled in the study filled out a questionnaire and provided a urinary sample to quantify OS biomarkers, namely 15-F2t-IsoProstane (15-F2t-IsoP) and 7,8-dihydro-8-oxo-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-oxo-dGuo). The main confounding factor for OS, i.e. tobacco smoking exposure, was assessed by measuring cotinine in urine samples. Results Woodworkers were exposed to significantly higher amounts of WD and FA as compared to controls (p 2t-IsoP showed statistically significant higher values in woodworkers compared to controls (p = 0.004). A significant, positive correlation was observed between 15-F2t-IsoP and 8-oxo-dGuo (p = 0.005), cotinine (p = 0.05), FA (p p = 0.01); 8-oxo-dGuo was significantly correlated with cotinine (p = 0.001) and WD (p = 0.004). In addition, WD and FA were significantly correlated each other (p Conclusions The study confirms that WD and FA may induce OS in woodworkers, and highlights that even the compliance with occupational exposure limits can result in measurable biological outcomes.

Recent studies have examined how the environment can influence obesity in young people. The research findings are conflicting: in some studies, green spaces have shown a protective association with obesity and urbanization has turned out to worsen this condition, while other studies contradicted these results. The aim of the study was to examine the relationships between greenness, urbanization, and weight status among Italian adolescents. Student data (11–13 years old) on weight and height, physical activity (PA), and demographic characteristics were extracted from the 2018 Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) survey in Piedmont, Northwest of Italy. Data on Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and urbanization were obtained from satellite images and the National Institute of Statistics (ISTAT). A multilevel regression model was used to assess the association between NDVI, urbanization, and obesity, controlling for PA. Students living in greener areas reported a lower likelihood of being obese [OR = 0.11, 95% CI 0.02–0.56, p = 0.007], while students living in areas with a higher level of urbanization showed a significantly increased risk of obesity [OR = 2.3, 95% CI:1.14–4.6, p = 0.02]. Living surrounded by higher amounts of greenness and lower levels of urbanization may positively influence health status through lower risk of obesity among youth.

Background Several studies have shown that neighborhood greenness is associated with lower problematic behaviors in children and better perceived well being. While urbanization showed opposite results. The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between urbanization and greenness levels with perceived health, life satisfaction and health complaints on adolescents. Methods The study is based on data from 2018 Health Behavior in School-aged Children in the region of Piedmont(Italy), which involved 3022 11-,13-,15-year olds, sampled in 122 schools across the region. Every school was georeferenced. Greenneess was measured by Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI-satellite images) and urbanization by population density, traffic intensity (satellite measurements) and air pollution concentration (sampling stations). Health complaints were evaluated with a set of 8 psychosomatic symptoms(reported more than once a week). Life Satisfaction (LS) was measured by using the Cantril scale (low LS =6). Self-Rated Health was measured by means of a four points scale (fair or poor, good or excellent). Results More than 66% of adolescents reported frequent health complaints; 11% declared low life-satisfaction and 9% of adolescents scored poor or fair self-rated health. The proportion of the three variables increased with age in both genders, and was higher among girls. Gender differences increased from 11- to 15-years of age. Preliminary results showed a positive association between greenness and life satisfaction, urbanization and health complaints. Conclusions In times of increasing urbanization and reduced availability of green areas, characterizing the association between urbanization, greenness and perceived health is revealed to be the challenge for Public Health. Redefine the urban spaces accordingly requires collaboration between different disciplines. Coherently with the recent studies, communities can be actively involved through qualitative approaches. Key messages The topic of urban nature is becoming central for healthy and sustainable urban planning, not the least for population groups like adolescents and children. The relation between urbanization, with decreasing access to green spaces, and the impact on physical as well as mental health presents an important issue and a big challenge for Public Health.

Background Childhood obesity is an important public health issue worldwide and includes different risk factors, such as environmental pollutants exposure or physical activity. Neighborhood composition and green spaces availability could contrast obesogenic lifestyles and promote healthy habits, whereas, urbanization and traffic volume exposure are inversely associated with physical activity and worsen effects on childhood health. Methods This project analyzed students involved in the HBSC survey from the Piedmont Region. Data were collected in 2018, following the protocol. All the subjects were georeferenced within buffers around schools. Green-spaces availability was measured by Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI-satellite images) while urbanization was calculated by population density, traffic intensity (satellite measurements) and air pollution concentration (sampling stations). Results Overall, the sample included 3022 subjects, with amount 50% male/female and 30% for each age group (11-13-15 years old). Concerning weight status, above 14% of the all sample is obese or overweight, with, respectively, 20% among boys and 11% among girls. Preliminary analyses showed an association between weight status and population density (rural vs urbanized areas). Currently, we are analyzing the association with greenness and the other measures of urbanization. Conclusions Our preliminary findings suggest that high urbanization levels impact health implementing weight in children. We are testing the hypothesis that greenness positively influences weight status and reduce negative effects of urbanization and air pollution. The managing of these risk factors must be deepened and corroborated by active preventive Public Health strategies for improving children health. Key messages Urbanization and greenness may influence weight status in children. Public Health strategies must be improved for children health.

Background Formaldehyde (FA) is a human carcinogen. It is commonly used in diluted form as formalin. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the frequencies of chromosomal aberrations (CAs) and sister chromatid exchanges (SCEs) as a consequence of the exposure to FA in a hospital setting, taking into account the role of some polymorphisms in developing genotoxic damage. Methods CAs and SCEs assays were performed on peripheral blood lymphocytes of 57 pathologists enrolled in Turin hospitals (Italy) and 48 unexposed enrolled as controls. All subjects were genotyped for CYP1A1 exon 7 (A>G), CYP1A1*2A (T>C), CYP2C19*2 (G>A), GSTT1 (Positive/Null), GSTM1 (Positive/null), GSTP1 (A>G), XRCC1 (G399A), XRCC1 (C194T), XRCC1 (A280G), XPD (A751C), XPC exon 15 (A939C), XPC exon 9 (C499T), TNFα -308 (G>A), IL10 -1082 (G>A), IL10 -819 (C>T) and IL6 -174 (G>C) gene polymorphisms. Due to the little number of recessive homozygotes, we compared the dominant genotype with the combined group of heterozygotes and recessive homozygotes. Results Among pathologists, the mean value of personal air-FA was 64.2 µg/m3, mean significantly higher (p = 0.000) than controls (19.1 µg/m3). Similarly, pathologists showed significantly higher values of SCEs (p = 0.009) and CAs (p = 0.000) with respect to controls. In the same group, CYP2C19*2 (p = 0.011), XRCC1 (G399A) (p = 0.007), and IL10 (-1082) (p = 0.042) gene polymorphisms influenced the CAS levels, as well as those of CYP1A1 exon 7 (p = 0.010), XPD A751C (p = 0.002), XPC C499T (p = 0.040), and IL10 (-819) (p = 0.005) the levels of SCEs. In control group, CAs resulted significantly lower in CYP1A1 exon 7 dominant homozygotes (p = 0.001). Conclusions Our study confirms the role of FA as an inductor of genotoxicity, even when, daily, workers are exposed to low FA levels. Some genetic polymorphisms seem to have an influence in modulating the effect of FA exposure, highlighting, in occupational health studies, the role of the individual susceptibility. Key messages FA exposure is confirmed to be a genotoxicity inductor even at low concentrations. Some genetic polymorphisms seem to have a role in the modulation of FA exposure-related damage.

Personal air formaldehyde (air-FA) was measured as risk factor of airways inflammation and oxidative stress (SO) induction. Overall, 154 police officers were enrolled from two differently urbanised Italian cities, Turin and Pavia. Urinary F2t-isoprostane (15-F2t-IsoP), a prostaglandin-like compound, was quantified as a biomarker of general OS in vivo and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) was measured for monitoring local inflammatory processes. Urinary cotinine was quantified as a biomarker of tobacco smoking exposure. Traffic police officers living in Turin showed an increased level of log air-FA (p &lt, 0.001), equal to +53.6% (p &lt, 0.001). Log air-(FA) mean values were 3.38 (C.I. 95% 3.33&ndash, 3.43) and 2.84 (C.I. 95% 2.77&ndash, 2.92) in Turin and Pavia, respectively. Log (air-FA) was higher in &ldquo, outdoor workers&rdquo, (3.18, C.I. 95% 3.13&ndash, 3.24, p = 0.035) compared to &ldquo, indoor workers&rdquo, showing an increase of +9.3%, even controlling for sex and city. The analyses on 15-F2t-IsoP and FeNO, both adjusted for log air-FA, highlighted that OS and inflammation were higher (+66.8%, p &lt, 0.001 and +75%, p &lt, 0.001, respectively) in Turin traffic police officers compared to those from Pavia. Our findings suggest that even low exposures to traffic-related emissions and urbanisation may influence both general oxidative stress levels and local inflammation.

Background Nurses employed in operating theatres and pathologists are workers professionally exposed to some environmental xenobiotics, such as drugs and formaldehyde (FA). Through experimental and epidemiological studies, both acute and chronic inhalation of FA has been associated with various health effects, including toxicity in the respiratory tract and cancer. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between occupational exposure to FA and the intensity of oxidative stress (OS). Methods 87 female hospital workers were enrolled in a Turin hospital in Italy. Each subject filled a questionnaire and provided biological samples to measure OS biomarkers: 15-F2t-Isoprostane, malondialdehyde (MDA) and total glutathione content (GSX) in urine and inflammatory mediators and receptors (sIL-6R, VEGF-R2, TNFR1, TNFa, FGF2, CD30, CD27) in blood. All individuals were genotyped for CYP1A1, GSTT1, GSTM1, TNFa, and IL-6 polymorphisms. A personal passive air sampler, worn for a working shift (8h), assessed personal FA exposure. Results Subjects exposed to FA (27%) resulted to have a significant higher amount of 15-F2t-Isop (p = 0.000), MDA (p = 0.000), GSX (p = 0.001) compared with non-exposed workers. FA concentration was positively correlated with prevalence of reported respiratory symptoms (p = 0.004), 15-F2t-Isop (p = 0.044), GSX (p = 0.000), MDA (p = 0.000), FGF2 (p = 0.000), CD27 (p = 0.000) and negatively with sIL-6R (p = 0.001), VEGF-R2 (p = 0.000). A significant reduction was found in GSTT1 positive subjects concerning MDA levels (p = 0.000). The same relationship was found in the control group (b=-2.25; C.I. 0.21 - 0.516; p = 0.06). Conclusions FA exposure is confirmed to be an OS inductor and to be correlated with inflammatory response, highlighting how daily occupational exposure to this air pollutant can result in measurable biological outcomes. Key messages Daily occupational exposure to FA results in a disruption of oxidative status and inflammatory profile. GSTT1 gene polymorphism is able to influence the MDA levels in the control group.

Paediatric Asthma contributes in paediatric global burden of diseases, as the most common chronic disease in children. Children are exposed to many environmental risk-factors, able to determine or worsen respiratory diseases, and contributing to asthma and asthma-like symptoms increases, especially in metropolitan areas. In urban settings, surrounding vegetation (greenness) may provide important benefits to health, including the promotion of physical activity and the mitigation of air and noise pollution. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between greenness and respiratory health. A total of 187 children (10&ndash, 13 yrs old) were recruited in Turin, the north-western part of Italy. The prevalence of asthma and asthma-like symptoms was calculated from self-reported data collected by SIDRIA questionnaire. Spirometry test was performed to obtain respiratory flow measurements. Greenness was measured at individual level through the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) estimations from remote-sensing images. Higher exposure (3rd tertile vs. 1st tertile) to NDVI was associated to significantly lower ORs for asthma [0.13 CI 95% 0.02&ndash, 0.7, p = 0.019], bronchitis [0.14 CI 95% 0.05&ndash, 0.45, p = 0.001], and current wheezing [0.25 CI 95% 0.09&ndash, 0.70, p = 0.008]. A significative positive association was found between greenness and FEF25&ndash, 75, since children exposed to the 2nd tertile of NDVI reported a significantly decreased FEF25&ndash, 75 compared to those in the 3rd tertile [B: &minus, 2.40, C.I.95%: &minus, 0.48&ndash, 0.01, p = 0.049]. This cross-sectional study provided additional data on still inconsistent literature referring to respiratory health in children and green spaces, attesting a positive effect of greenness in a specific area of Italy. Further research is still needed.

Background Pollen exposure has acute adverse effects on sensitized individuals. Information on the prevalence of respiratory diseases in areas with different pollen concentrations is scanty. Aim We performed an ecologic analysis to assess whether the prevalence of allergic rhinitis and asthma in young adults varied across areas with different pollen concentrations in Italy. Methods A questionnaire on respiratory diseases was delivered to random samples of 20–44 year-old subjects from six centers in 2005–2010. Data on the daily air concentrations of 7 major allergologic pollens (Poaceae, Urticaceae, Oleaceae, Cupressaceae, Coryloideae, Betula and Ambrosia) were collected for 2007–2008. Center-specific pollen exposure indicators were calculated, including the average number of days per year with pollens above the low or high concentration thresholds defined by the Italian Association of Aerobiology. Associations between pollen exposure and disease prevalence, adjusted for potential confounders, were estimated using logistic regression models with center as a random-intercept. Results Overall, 8834 subjects (56.8%) filled in the questionnaire. Allergic rhinitis was significantly less frequent in the centers with longer periods with high concentrations of at least one (OR per 10 days = 0.989, 95%CI: 0.979–0.999) or at least two pollens (OR = 0.974, 95%CI: 0.951–0.998); associations with the number of days with at least one (OR = 0.988, 95%CI: 0.972–1.004) or at least two (OR = 0.985, 95%CI: 0.970–1.001) pollens above the low thresholds were borderline significant. Asthma prevalence was not associated with pollen concentrations. Conclusions Our study does not support that the prevalence of allergic rhinitis and asthma is greater in centers with higher pollen concentrations. It is not clear whether the observed ecologic associations hold at the individual level.

Obesity and exposure to second-hand tobacco smoking (SHS) may influence oxidative stress (OS) levels, especially in children. This study investigated body composition and SHS influence on OS induction in the paediatric population. The first purpose was identifying an appropriate BMI standard for adiposity assessment in OS investigations. Secondly, SHS and obesity were analysed as inductors of OS. The epidemiologic sample involved 330 children. Three BMI (body mass index) references (IOTF, CDC, and WHO) and an impedentiometric scale supplied body-composition measurements. Partecipants filled out a questionnaire and provided urinary samples for biomarker quantifications: isoprostane (15-F2t IsoP) and cotinine as OS and SHS biomarker, respectively. Obesity prevalence changed over different BMI references (14%, 21%, and 34% for IOTF, CDC, and WHO, respectively). Obese children, by IOTF, showed an increase of 56% in 15-F2t IsoP compared to those normal weight (p = 0.020). Children belonging to the third and the fourth cotinine quartile compared to those of the first quartile had higher 15-F2t IsoP (1.45 ng/mg, 95% CI: 1.06&ndash, 1.97, p = 0.020 and 2.04 ng/mg, 95% CI: 1.55&ndash, 2.69, p &lt, 0.0001, respectively). Obesity assessment in children requires appropriate BMI reference depending on research field. Both SHS exposure and obesity may increase OS in children.

Introduction: Restrictive spirometry pattern is an under-recognised disorder with a poor morbidity and mortality prognosis. We compared physical activity levels between adults with a restrictive spirometry pattern and with normal spirometry. Methods: Restrictive spirometry pattern was defined as a having post-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC ≥ Lower Limit of Normal and a FVC

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to investigate bisphenol A (BPA) and its role in the induction of oxidative stress and confirm the same for tobacco smoke. Methods. A total of 223 young, healthy students (7&ndash, 19 years old) were recruited in Chivasso, Italy. A spot of urine of each subject was analyzed to quantify BPA, cotinine, and 15F2t-isoprostane. Results. BPA showed a slight increase of concentration proportional with increasing age, even though the 11&ndash, 14 years age group had slightly lower results, inducing a V-shape. The same trend was observed for 15F2t-isoprostane and cotinine. The result of piecewise linear robust regression shows a break point of the effect of BPA on 15F2t-isoprostane at 6 ng/mg CREA (p &lt, 0.001). At higher levels, 15F2t-isoprostane shows an exponential increase by more than threefold for each one-log unit of BPA. An increase of oxidative stress due to BPA was observed, but only from 6 ng/mg of CREA up. Passive tobacco smoke is also able to induce an increase in oxidative stress. Conclusion. Prevention against BPA and passive tobacco smoke represents an important tool for promoting the highest health standard.

The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of bisphenol (BP) exposure on pregnancy and neonatal life. We have (a) determined BP (BPA and BPS) concentration levels in a group of newborns and their mothers, (b) identified factors, habits, and devices possibly responsible for BP uptake, and (c) determined the effect of BP exposure. No significant correlations were detected between maternal and neonatal BP concentration levels. In newborns, positive correlations between pacifier use and BPS total (p = 0.04) and free BPS (p = 0.03) concentrations were detected. A significant correlation was also found between oral glucose administration and concentration levels of free BPA (p &lt, 0.05). Our study points to a central role of lifestyle, hospital procedures, and neonatal devices in inducing BP exposure, especially during the perinatal period. This is the first report of BP contamination in newborns due to widely non-alimentary products designed for newborn care, such as glucose-solution containers for BPA and pacifiers for BPS. Further studies are advocated in order to clarify both the impact of other BP forms on human health and development, as well as potential BPA exposure sources during neonatal and childhood life.

Purpose: nurses are exposed to formaldehyde when managing surgical samples that are to be later transferred to histopathology. We evaluated the conditions favouring the risk of exposure to this toxic reagent and the effect of measures to prevent it. Methods: we conducted a cross-sectional study where 94 female workers were enrolled as being potentially exposed to formaldehyde. From each nurse were collected: (1) personal air-formaldehyde by a personal dosimeter (8 hours), (2) a standardized questionnaire, (3) a urine sample to test 15-F2t-isoprostane, malondialdehyde, cotinine. Results: the results indicate a marked difference related to the adoption of the under vacuum sealing procedure, as an alternative to formaldehyde for preserving tissues. Nurses using the under vacuum sealing system in the operating rooms are exposed to levels of formaldehyde 75% lower than those who do not use that system. Oxidative stress biomarkers (15-F2t-isoprostane, malondialdehyde) are significantly higher in nurses using formaldehyde (p < 0.001) and in the absence of the under vacuum sealing system (p = 0.027), in particular in those workers who use liquid formaldehyde in the operating theatre (p = 0.012). Conclusions: analysis of the biological biomarkers confirms a direct responsibility of air formaldehyde on the onset of oxidative stress while the use of the under vacuum sealing technique is associated with a significant reduction of the exposure to air-formaldehyde and redox status. Our findings can be useful to characterize the environmental health risk in operating theatres and to plan preventive measures such as the under vacuum sealing procedure.

Wood dust is one of the most common occupational exposures, with about 3.6 million of workers in the wood industry in Europe. Wood particles can deposit in the nose and the respiratory tract and cause adverse health effects. Occupational exposure to wood dust has been associated with malignant tumors of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. The induction of oxidative stress and the generation of reactive oxygen species through activation of inflammatory cells could have a role in the carcinogenicity of respirable wood dust. Therefore, we conducted a cross-sectional study to evaluate the prevalence of urinary 15-F