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Allergic asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease with a high mortality rate and a rapidly increasing prevalence in recent decades that is closely linked to environmental change. Previous research found that high humidity (HH) and the traffic-related air pollutant NO 2 both aggregated allergic asthma. Their combined effect and mechanisms on asthma exacerbation, however, are unknown. Our study aims to toxicologically clarify the role of HH (90%) and NO 2 (5 ppm) on allergic asthma. Ninety male Balb/c mice were randomly assigned to one of six groups (n = 15 in each): saline control, ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized, OVA + HH, OVA + NO 2 , OVA + HH + NO 2 , and OVA + HH + NO 2 +Capsazepine (CZP). After 38 days of treatment, the airway function, pathological changes in lung tissue, blood inflammatory cells, and oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers were comprehensively assessed. Co-exposure to HH and NO 2 exacerbated histopathological changes and airway hyperresponsiveness, increased IgE, oxidative stress markers malonaldehyde (MDA) and allergic asthma-related inflammation markers (IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-17), and upregulated the expressions of the transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels (TRPA1, TRPV1 and TRPV4). Our findings show that co-exposure to HH and NO 2 disrupted the Th1/Th2 immune balance, promoting allergic airway inflammation and asthma susceptibility, and increasing TRPV1 expression, whereas CZP reduced TRPV1 expression and alleviated allergic asthma symptoms. Thus, therapeutic treatments that target the TRPV1 ion channel have the potential to effectively manage allergic asthma. [Display omitted] • High humidity (HH) and NO 2 induce allergic asthmatic airway inflammation in mice. • HH and NO 2 co-exposure enhances physiological and biochemical indicators of asthma. • Expression of TRPA1, TRPV4 and TRPV1 ion channels is upregulated in asthmatic mice. • TRPV1 ion pathway plays a key role in asthma exacerbation by HH and NO 2 co-exposure. • Capsazepine can significantly reduce the exacerbation of allergic asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite mounting evidence linking indoor and outdoor environments to eczema, the role of indoor and outdoor environmental pollutant(s) exposure during critical time window(s) on eczema remains unknown. To investigate the correlations between childhood eczema and itchy rashes and exposure to outdoor air pollution and the home environment. A combined cross-sectional and retrospective cohort study of 8689 kindergarten students was conducted. We collected information about each child's health outcomes and home environment, as well as calculated individual exposure to air pollutants. Multiple logistic regression models were used to investigate the links between indoor and outdoor environments and childhood eczema and itchy rashes. Childhood ever doctor-diagnosed eczema (DDE) was linked to NO 2 , CO, PM 2.5 , PM 2.5-10 and PM 10 exposure during the preconceptional, pregnant, and postnatal periods, with ORs (95 % CI) ranging from 1.06 (1.00–1.13) to 1.21 (1.08–1.37). Ever doctor-diagnosed itchy rash (DDIR) was associated with SO 2 , CO, PM 2.5 , PM 2.5-10 and PM 10 exposure during preconceptional and postnatal periods, with ORs (95 % CI) ranging from 1.11 (1.02–1.20) to 1.31 (1.13–1.52). Preconceptional outdoor air pollution was associated with a higher risk of ever, early, and late DDE and DDIR. Indoor smoke, renovation, and dampness were all associated with DDE and DDIR. Postnatal exposure to plants has been linked to both ever and early DDE. There was no link between indoor environments and late DDE. Furthermore, pregnancy has been identified as a critical indoor exposure time window for DDE and DDIR. Early-life exposure to outdoor air pollutants and indoor environments, particularly before birth, played important roles in childhood eczema. [Display omitted] • Preconceptional, prenatal, and postnatal exposures to CO, NO 2 , PM 2.5 and PM 10 increase the risk of eczema. • Preconception and the first year are critical time windows for CO or PM 2.5 exposure in relation to itchy rashes. • Prenatal and postnatal indoor factors are important for early and late eczema and itchy rashes. • Postnatal indoor factors exposure played a key role in the development of later and current itchy rashes. • Our findings lend credence to the "fetal origin of childhood atopic dermatitis" hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cordyceps militaris is known for its production of cordycepin, which possesses various biological activities. Silkworm pupae serve as the hosts for Cordyceps militaris , thereby facilitating the synthesis of cordycepin. In this work, the components of silkworm pupae were isolated and used as regulatory factors to promote liquid fermentation of C. militaris to produce cordycepin. Compared with lipids, crude proteins in silkworm pupae are more capable of promoting cordycepin synthesis. Notably, when four proteins (albumin, globulin, gladin and gluten) isolated from crude proteins were added to the fermentation system according to their extraction rates, only globulin had a similar promotional effect as crude protein. In addition, supplementation with 3.31 g/L globulin extended the cordycepin synthesis stage for 6 days, during which the expression level of cns1-4 , genes related to cordycepin synthesis, were significantly up-regulated. Transcriptome analysis of the metabolic pathway of C. militaris after globulin supplementation revealed that the upregulation of glucose metabolism and energy metabolism played a crucial role in extending the synthesis stage of cordycepin to 2.5 times. Silkworm pupae globulin is the main functional factor regulating the synthesis of cordycepin in C. militaris , and is a potential material for industrial production of cordycepin. • Seven kinds of components in silkworm pupae were separated based on Osborne's method. • Silkworm pupae globulin prolonged the cordycepin synthesis stage of C. militaris for 6 days. • Globulin affects cordycepin synthesis through glucose metabolism and energy metabolism. • Adding globulin and sucrose while controlling pH increased cordycepin yield by 280%. • The production of cordycepin using silkworm pupae globulin offers a cost-effective solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doctor-diagnosed plant allergy (DPA) in children has emerged as a significant global public health concern. However, the role of antibiotics and indoor environmental factors (IEFs) in childhood DPA remains unknown. To investigate the correlations between childhood DPA and exposure to antibiotics and IEFs during different time periods. A retrospective cohort study of 8,689 preschoolers was performed in Changsha, China. We collected data on each child's health outcomes, antibiotics use and home environment by a questionnaire, as well as temperature and air pollutants in Changsha, and calculated personal exposure to temperature and pollutants. Multiple logistic regression models were used to assess the independent and joint effects of antibiotics and IEFs on childhood DPA. Life-time and early-life antibiotics use was associated with childhood DPA with ORs (95% CI) = 1.58 (1.15–2.17) and 1.33 (1.04–1.69), with a higher risk for early-life exposure than later-life exposure. Renovation-specific indoor air pollution (IAP) during pre-birth (1 year before pregnancy and pregnancy) and smoke-specific IAP during early life (pregnancy and first year) had significantly impacts on childhood DPA. Furthermore, dampness-specific allergens throughout lifetime elevated the risk of DPA, with ORs ranging from 1.34 (1.00–1.81) to 1.93 (1.44–2.59). Moreover, life-time and early-life antibiotic use significantly increased the DPA risk attributed to some specific IEFs, such as ETS especially grandparental smoking, exposure during first year and previous year, with a significant interaction. Life-time and early-life exposure to antibiotics and IEFs independently and jointly played key roles in the development of DPA , supporting the "fetal origin of childhood PA" hypothesis. [Display omitted] • Life-time and early-life antibiotic use increased the risk of childhood plant allergy (PA). • Renovation-specific indoor air pollution (IAP) exposure before birth elevated the risk of PA. • Smoke-specific IAP exposure during early life was associated with increased risk of PA. • Dampness-specific indoor allergens exposure throughout lifetime was related with PA risk. • Antibiotic use significantly increased childhood PA risk attributed to smoke-specific IAP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied time trends in home environment and sick building syndrome (SBS) symptoms in a repeat study in five cities in southern China. Moreover, we studied associations between home environment exposure and SBS symptoms. Parents from randomly selected day care centers were invited. One parent per family answered a questionnaire on the home environment and their own SBS symptoms. Data collection was performed in two surveys in 2010 and 2019 (27,292 participants in 2010 and 32,073 in 2019). We used two-level logistic regression to analyze health associations. Asthma decreased from 1.7% to 1.5% (P < 0.05) but allergic rhinitis increased from 6.5% to 16.4% (P < 0.001). All SBS symptoms decreased from 2010 to 2019 (all P < 0.001). Most aspects of the home environment improved from 2010 to 2019 but there were less cleaning, more cats, dogs, and urbanization in 2019. Redecoration, new furniture, and pests were associated with most types of SBS symptoms, similarly in 2010 and 2019. Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) was associated with SBS symptoms in 2019 only. In conclusion, prevalence of SBS symptoms among young parents in southern China decreased from 2010 to 2019 but allergic rhinitis increased. Cockroaches, rats, mice, mosquitoes or flies can be consistent biological risk factors for SBS symptoms. Redecoration, buying new furniture and traffic air pollution are other risk factors for SBS symptoms. Daily cleaning, frequently putting bedding to sunshine, and having a fan in the bathroom can be protective factors. ETS is an emerging risk factor for SBS symptoms. [Display omitted] • The home environment was improved and SBS symptoms decreased from 2010 to 2019. • Redecoration, new furniture, traffic pollution and ETS can increase SBS symptoms. • Cockroaches, rats, mice, mosquitoes and flies at home can increase SBS symptoms. • Daily cleaning and exposing bedding outdoors to sunshine can reduce the symptoms. • Installing mechanical exhaust ventilation in the bathroom can reduce SBS symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2D heterojunction based on g-C 3 N 4 nanosheets with other semiconductor nanosheets is a promising way to improve photocatalytic hydrogen evolution (PHE) activity over g-C 3 N 4. However, current 2D heterojunction based on g-C 3 N 4 are unsatisfactory due to their insufficient absorption of visible light and inefficient charge separation. In this work, Ag/TiO 2 /g-C 3 N 4 nanocomposites based on 2D heterojunction coupling with Ag surface plasmon resonance (SPR) were synthesized by a method combining facile wetness impregnation calcination. The PHE activity of Ag/TiO 2 /g-C 3 N 4 nanocomposites is attributed to the TiO 2 /g-C 3 N 4 2D heterojunction and bare g-C 3 N 4 nanosheet under visible light irradiation, indicating a cooperative effect between Ag and TiO 2 /g-C 3 N 4 2D heterojunction. As a result of SPR effect, the composites strongly absorb visible light. In addition, the oscillating hot electrons from Ag can easily transfer to 2D heterojunction. This synergistic effect lead to sufficient visible light absorption and efficient charge separation of 2D heterojunction, which improved the PHE activity of g-C 3 N 4. This work indicates that loading metal nanoparticles on 2D heterojunction as metal SPR-2D heterojunction nanocomposites may be a potential method for harvesting visible light for PHE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated associations between dampness in Chinese homes and sick building syndrome (SBS) symptoms and studied the role of climate, family size, cleaning and ventilation for dampness, mould and SBS. A questionnaire survey was done in 2019–2020 among adults in five cities (32349 participants) and data on outdoor climate was collected. Multilevel logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (ORs). In total, 2.2% had rhinitis, 1.8% eye, 1.6% throat and 2.9% skin symptoms, 2.1% headache and 8.7% fatigue (weekly symptoms). Overall, 12.1% reported indoor mould, 5.7% damp bedding, 5.3% mould odour and 33.8% humid air in current home. Mould was associated with all symptoms (ORs 1.86–2.15 for minor mold growth and 1.65–3.45 for major mould growth). Damp bedding was associated with all symptoms (ORs 2.18–2.80 for minor dampness and 2.51–8.03 for major dampness). Mould odour was associated with all symptoms (ORs 1.84–2.77 for sometimes odour and ORs 3.78–7.80 for weekly odour). Perception of humid air was associated with all symptoms. ORs increased by number of dampness signs. Precipitation, outdoor relative air humidity and temperature increased dampness, mould and SBS symptoms. Large family size increased dermal symptoms. Daily floor cleaning, airing in winter, putting bedding to sunshine and mechanical ventilation in the bathroom reduced dampness, mould and SBS symptoms. In conclusion, mould and dampness in Chinese homes can increase rhinitis and SBS-symptoms in a dose-response manner. A warmer and more humid climate can increase, and cleaning and ventilation in the home can decrease dampness, mould and SBS symptoms. • Mould and dampness can increase medical symptoms in adults in a dose-response manner. • Precipitation, temperature and air humidity can increase domestic dampness and mould. • Precipitation, temperature and relative air humidity can increase medical symptoms. • Cleaning and putting bedding to sunshine can reduce dampness, mould and symptoms. • Airing and mechanical ventilation can reduce dampness, mould and medical symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite mounting evidence linking asthma to air pollution, it remains unclear which specific pollutant(s) exposure during critical time window(s) plays a pivotal role in the development of asthma. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of intrauterine and postnatal air pollution exposure on children's asthma. From 2019 to 2020, a retrospective cohort study was conducted in Changsha, China. The inverse distance weighted (IDW) method was used to estimate each child's personal exposure to outdoor air pollutants at their home address. Associations between personal air pollution exposure and asthma were comprehensively examined. The occurrence of children's asthma was found to be linked to exposure to PM 2.5 and NO 2 during both the intrauterine and current periods, with significant ORs (95% CI) of 1.44 (1.08–1.93) and 1.29 (1.00–1.68) for IQR increase in intrauterine exposure particularly during the 2nd trimester, and 1.26 (1.01–1.57) and 1.26 (1.04–1.51) for exposure in previous year. Post-natal PM 10 exposure was linked to asthma, with an OR (95% CI) of 1.28 (1.01–1.62). Higher risks of asthma were associated with intrauterine exposure to PM 2.5 and postnatal exposure to PM 10. The critical time windows for PM 2.5 , PM 2.5-10 , and PM 10 exposure were identified as the entire pregnancy, the second trimester, and the entire postnatal period, respectively. Cumulative exposure to PM 2.5 and NO 2 during gestational weeks had a notable impact on asthma. Additionally, exposure to traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) at all timing stages, as well as PM 2.5-10 and SO 2 at night, increased the risk of asthma. Certain subgroups were more vulnerable to asthma risk due to air pollution. Children's asthma was predominantly influenced by exposure to particulate matters and TRAP during both the intrauterine and postnatal periods. [Display omitted] • Traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) exposure was related with childhood asthma. • Pregnancy, 2nd trimester, and postnatal period were critical widows for PM exposure. • Daytime and nighttime TRAP exposure played an important role in the risk of asthma. • There were cumulative effects of PM 2.5 and NO 2 over gestation in relation to asthma. • Our study supports and develops the "fetal origin of childhood asthma" hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Childhood pneumonia remains a major public health concern worldwide, but the critical meteorological factors that contribute to it are unknown. To investigate the relationship between childhood pneumonia and prenatal and postnatal exposure to meteorological factors to identify the critical factors and vulnerable timing windows. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 8689 preschoolers in China. We gathered information on personal factors, health status, and indoor environment through questionnaires. We considered meteorological factors including temperature (mean, maximum, minimum), diurnal temperature variation (DTV), relative humidity, wind speed, rainfall, pressure and sunshine during early life. Using multiple logistic regression models, we investigated the links between childhood pneumonia and early life exposure to meteorological factors. Exposure to mean, maximum, and minimum temperatures was associated with childhood pneumonia in the first month and first trimester, with ORs (95% CI) of 1.32 (1.07–1.62), 1.26 (1.04–1.52) and 1.33 (1.08–1.64) in the first month, and 1.42 (1.12–1.81), 1.36 (1.08–1.71) and 1.47 (1.15–1.88) in the first trimester for per IQR increase in each meteorological factor exposure. Wind speed, rainfall, and sunshine exhibited significant associations with pneumonia during the first, second, and third trimesters, respectively. Exposure to various temperatures, DTV, relative humidity, rainfall, air pressure, and sunshine were linked to childhood pneumonia in the postnatal period, particularly in the previous year. The sensitivity analysis revealed that boys are more vulnerable to meteorological factors. Keeping dogs or plants may offer protection against the pneumonia risk of prenatal and postnatal meteorological exposure. Exposure to meteorological factors during both the prenatal and postnatal periods, especially in early pregnancy, was found to elevate the risk of childhood pneumonia. [Display omitted] • Effect of climatic factors on childhood pneumonia in different windows is unclear. • Pneumonia in children was associated with prenatal exposure to ambient temperature. • Early pregnancy was identified as a critical time window for climatic exposure. • Postnatal exposure to climatic factors had the highest risk of childhood pneumonia. • Our study support "Fetal origin of pneumonia" hypothesis by meteorological factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract We studied indoor sources of indoor particulate matter (PM), outdoor air pollution and antibiotic use in relation to asthma, rhinitis and eczema among pre-school children and investigated synergistic effects between PM and antibiotics use. Children (3-6y) from randomly selected day care centres in seven cities across China were included (n = 39,782). Data on ambient temperature and air pollution were collected from local monitoring stations. Data on indoor PM sources (ETS, burning of incense or mosquito coils and biomass for cooking), antibiotics use and health (doctor diagnosed asthma and rhinitis, lifetime eczema, current wheeze and current rhinitis) were assessed by a parental questionnaire. Associations were calculated by multilevel logistic regression. Asthma diagnosis was associated with outdoor temperature, NO 2 and burning mosquito coils. Rhinitis diagnosis was associated with NO 2 , ETS, gas cooking and burning biomass for cooking. Lifetime eczema was associated with temperature, PM 10, NO 2 , ETS, biomass cooking and burning mosquito coils. Burning incense was associated with current wheeze and current rhinitis. Children using antibiotics had more asthma, wheeze, rhinitis, and eczema. Excluding children with respiratory infections did not change associations with antibiotics use. Antibiotics use enhanced the effects of ETS and PM 10 (a synergistic effect). In conclusion, a warmer climate, outdoor NO 2 and PM 10, ETS, gas cooking and burning biomass, incense and mosquito coils can increase the risk of asthma, wheeze, rhinitis and eczema among pre-school children in China. Antibiotics use is a risk factor for childhood asthma, wheeze, rhinitis and eczema and ETS and outdoor PM 10 can enhance the effect. Highlights • Burning incense and mosquito coils can increase asthma, rhinitis, wheeze and eczema. • Outdoor PM 10 can increase the risk of childhood eczema. • Traffic-related air pollution (NO 2) can increase the risk of asthma, rhinitis and eczema. • Early life antibiotics use can increase the risk of asthma, rhinitis and eczema. • PM10 and ETS can enhance the adverse health effects of antibiotics use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective Few longitudinal studies exist on childhood exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution and respiratory illness in China. We studied associations between indoor and outdoor environment and prevalence, onset and remission of wheeze and rhinitis among children across China. Methods Children (3–6 y) were recruited from randomized day care centres in six cities. The main data analysis was restricted to children not moving since birth (N = 17,679). Data on wheeze, rhinitis and the home environment were assessed by a parental questionnaire. Prevalence in the first two years of life (baseline) and the last year (follow-up) was used to calculate onset and remission. Outdoor PM 2.5 , PM 10 , and NO 2 at the day care centre were modelled from monitoring station data. Associations were calculated by multilevel logistic regression. Results Prenatal NO 2 was associated with decreased remission of wheeze and increased prevalence and increased onset of rhinitis. Prenatal PM 2.5 was associated with increased prevalence of wheeze. Postnatal NO 2 and postnatal PM 10 were associated with increased prevalence and lower remission of wheeze and rhinitis. Mould, window pane condensation, renovation and cockroaches at home were associated with increased prevalence and increased onset of wheeze and rhinitis. Gas cooking was associated with increased onset of rhinitis. Children of mothers with industrial work had more wheeze. Conclusions Outdoor PM 2.5 , PM 10 and NO 2 can increase childhood wheeze and rhinitis. Dampness and mould can increase onset and decrease remission. Crowdedness, cockroaches at home and emissions from new building materials and gas cooking can be risk factors for wheeze and rhinitis. Highlights • Outdoor air pollution (PM 2.5 , PM 10 and NO 2) can increase wheeze and rhinitis symptoms among pre-school children in China. • Indoor mould, and dampness and window pane condensation can increase onset and decrease remission of wheeze and rhinitis. • Chemical emissions from renovation and cockroaches at home can increased onset of wheeze and rhinitis. • Gas cooking can increase onset of rhinitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Mounting evidence have linked high temperature with increased incidence of preterm birth (PTB), but which time period(s) of increase in temperature within a day and a year during pregnancy play an important role in PTB is not clarified. Objective This study aims to determine the critical time period(s) of heat exposure on the development of PTB by exploring the risk of PTB for temperature increase during 24 h of a whole day and each of four seasons during pregnancy. Methods A cohort study was performed with 3509 preschool children in Changsha, China, which evaluated the prevalence of PTB using a questionnaire filled out by the children's parents. The authors estimated the temperature at which each mother was exposed to outdoor air temperature during three trimesters and for 24 h in different seasons of pregnancy. The logistic regression models in regard to odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) was applied to study associations of PTB with an increase in temperature during different time windows. Results Prevalence of PTB (4.1%) was associated with outdoor temperature with adjusted ORs (95% CI) = 1.34 (1.11–1.62) for increase of 1 °C in temperature exposure during pregnancy, and this association was significantly higher in spring and summer than autumn and winter. Specifically, high temperature during summer night posed the highest risk of PTB, with peaks during 03:00–04:00 a.m. We further found that PTB was associated with exposure to temperature and extreme heat day during the 2nd trimester, with ORs = 1.03 (1.00–1.06) and 1.01 (1.00–1.02) respectively. Foetus with male sex and older mothers were more sensitive to the impact of heat exposure during pregnancy on PTB, with higher risk observed during night time. Conclusion Our study indicates that heat exposure was related to an elevated risk of PTB, with higher risk of PTB for nocturnal exposure and warm seasons. Our findings have implications for the adverse effect of elevated temperature in the future as global warming continues. Highlights • Preterm birth (PTB) was associated with increase in ambient temperature. • We identified 2nd trimester as a critical timing window for the PTB risk of heat exposure. • Temperature increase in warm season posed a significantly higher risk compared to cold season. • PTB risk due to increase in temperature was higher during night time than daytime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite mounting evidence linking allergic rhinitis (AR) to air pollution, it remains unclear which major air pollutant(s) and critical window(s) of exposure play important roles in children's AR. To examine the effects of intrauterine and early postnatal exposure to outdoor air pollution on children with doctor-diagnosed allergic rhinitis (DDAR). A retrospective cohort study involving 8689 kindergarten children was conducted in Changsha, China, from 2019 to 2020. A questionnaire survey was conducted to collect information on the health status of children and their family members, as well as their living habits and home environment. Personal exposure to daily outdoor air pollutants (PM 2.5 , PM 2.5-10 , PM 10 , SO 2 , NO 2 , and CO) was estimated during 40 gestational weeks, three trimesters, the entire pregnancy, and the first year after birth. Multiple logistic regression models were used to assess the associations between air pollution and children's DDAR. Children's DDAR was associated with intrauterine CO exposure, with adjusted ORs (95% CI) of 1.18 (1.03–1.34) for each IQR increase in CO exposure. The second and third trimesters were critical windows for PM 2.5 and CO exposure in relation to DDAR. Furthermore, early postnatal exposure to PM 2.5-10 and PM 10 in first year of life was associated with DDAR development, with adjusted ORs (95% CI) of 1.11 (1.01–1.22) and 1.27 (1.09, 1.47). The entire pregnancy and the first year of life were critical windows for CO and PM 10 exposure. Some children were predisposed to DDAR risk due to exposure to traffic-related air pollution (TRAP). Our findings support the hypothesis of "fetal origin of allergic rhinitis" by demonstrating that intrauterine and early postnatal exposure to air pollution plays an important role in children's DDAR. [Display omitted] • Allergic rhinitis (AR) was affected by traffic-related air pollution (TRAP). • Prenatal exposure to CO and PM 2.5 enhanced the risk of childhood AR. • Early postnatal exposure to PM 10 and NO 2 was associated with childhood AR. • Some sub-groups were more susceptible to AR risk of air pollution exposure. • Our study supports and develops the hypothesis of "fetal origin of allergic rhinitis". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite numerous studies demonstrating a link between asthma and meteorological parameters, the role of maternal exposure in pregnancy on childhood asthma remains unknown. To investigate the association of meteorological factors during pregnancy with childhood asthma and identify key exposure windows. In central China's Changsha city, we carried out a retrospective cohort study involving 8,689 preschoolers. We used questionnaires to collect information about childhood health, personal factors, socioeconomic status (SES), and indoor environment. We considered meteorological parameters including temperature (mean, maximum, minimum), diurnal temperature variation (DTV), relative humidity, wind speed (mean, extreme), rainfall, pressure, and sunshine during early life. We investigated the links between childhood asthma and meteorological factors using logistic regression models. Doctor-diagnosed asthma (D-DA) in preschoolers was associated with exposure to increased temperatures (mean, maximum, and minimum) by per IQR increment in the first month with ORs (95% CI) of 2.03 (1.21–3.40), 1.86 (1.15–3.00) and 2.08 (1.23–3.50) as well as in the first trimester with ORs of 2.40 (1.36–4.24), 2.20 (1.26–3.83) and 2.54 (1.43–4.53), respectively. D-DA was inversely related to wind speed in the first month and first two trimesters. Compared to an increased risk of D-DA when exposed to pressure in the third trimester, exposure to DTV during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, significantly decreased the risk. Some preschoolers with certain personal factors and high SES were more vulnerable to pre-natal meteorological exposure. Prenatal exposure to meteorological factors, especially high temperatures and low wind speeds in early pregnancy, contributes to childhood asthma. [Display omitted] • The impact of meteorological factors in pregnancy on childhood asthma is unclear. • Asthma was linked to higher temperatures and lower wind speed in pregnancy. • Early pregnancy was identified as a critical window for climatic susceptibility. • Personal and socioeconomic factors modified asthma risk of climate exposure. • Our study supports "Fetal origins of asthma" hypothesis by meteorological factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building envelope dampness exposure is correlated with children's respiratory and allergic diseases. However, little research has compared the variation in the health impact of dampness exposure across multiple cities from a longitudinal perspective. A cross-sectional survey and a repeated one were conducted in children's residences in six cities: Chongqing, Shanghai, Nanjing, Wuhan, Changsha and Taiyuan, China, in 2010 (Phase I) and 2019 (Phase II). We selected 17,810 preschoolers during Phase I and 26,001 preschoolers during Phase II aged 3–6 years without changing residence since birth in the study. The proportion of residences with building envelope dampness exposure and the prevalence of respiratory and allergic diseases, except allergic rhinitis, in preschoolers significantly declined from Phase I to Phase II. Dampness exposure increased the risk for most childhood respiratory diseases in Phase II, with a 34% greater risk of lifetime-ever asthma in early residences and a 36% greater risk of current eczema in current residences. Most diseases showed a significantly positive exposure-response relationship to the cumulative period of building envelope dampness exposure (p < 0.05). The risk of developing current eczema was approximately 1.35 and 1.73 times higher in children exposed to both early and current dampness in Phase I and Phase II, respectively, than in children who had never been exposed. These findings provide new insights into the respiratory and allergic diseases in Chinese preschoolers because of building envelope dampness exposure over the last decade. The increased risk in Phase II raises concerns about the household's dampness environment. [Display omitted] • Building envelope dampness exposure has decreased over the last decade. • Prevalence of childhood respiratory diseases has declined over the last decade. • The risk of dampness exposure on respiratory diseases has increased in 2019. • Accumulated dampness exposure has a higher risk of current eczema in 2019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Few data exist on asthma and rhinitis across China in relation to indoor and outdoor air pollution, climate and socioeconomic factors. The main aim was to study associations between asthma, rhinitis and current respiratory symptoms among pre-school children across China and selected indoor and outdoor exposure and indicators of socio-economic status (SES) in mutually adjusted models. Methods Chinese children (3–6 yr.) (n = 39,782) were recruited from randomly selected day care centres in seven cities in China. Data on asthma, respiratory symptoms, rhinitis, indoor and outdoor exposure at home and SES were assessed by a parentally administered questionnaire. Lifetime mean ambient temperature, PM 10 , NO 2, and GDP per capita on city level were calculated. Results Totally 7.4% had ever doctors' diagnosed (DD) asthma and 8.7% DD-rhinitis, 19.7% had current wheeze, 45.0% rhinitis and 16.9% cough. DD-asthma was associated with ambient temperature (OR = 1.15, 95% CI 1.11–1.20 per °C), NO 2 (OR = 1.16, 95% CI 1.02–1.33 per 10 μg/m 3 ), indoor mould/dampness (OR = 1.25, 95% CI 1.13–1.39) and living near major roads (OR = 1.13, 95% CI 1.02–1.25). DD-rhinitis was associated with ambient temperature (OR = 1.07, 95% CI 1.05–1.10 per °C), NO 2 (OR = 1.20, 95% CI 1.09–1.32 per 10 μg/m 3 ), GDP (OR = 1.03, 95% CI 1.01–1.06 per 10,000 RenMinBi/year), indoor mould/dampness (OR = 1.23, 95% CI 1.11–1.35), passive smoking (OR = 1.11, 95% CI 1.01–1.21), and living near major roads (OR = 1.14, 95% CI 1.03–1.25). Children in suburban or rural areas, in larger families (≥5 persons) and with prenatal farm exposure had less DD-asthma and DD-rhinitis. Conclusions Economic development level of the city, higher SES, ambient temperature, NO 2 , PM 10 , traffic air pollution and mould/dampness can be risk factors for asthma and rhinitis and respiratory symptoms among pre-school children in China. Breastfeeding, large family size and early-life farm exposure could be protective factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Pneumonia is a common early-childhood respiratory infection that leads to long-term health impacts, but its risk factors remain unclear. Objective To examine the association between early life exposure to both outdoor and indoor air pollution and childhood pneumonia. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 2598 children aged 3–6 years in Changsha, China (2011-2012). Children's life-time prevalence of pneumonia and exposure to indoor air pollution related to home renovation were surveyed by a questionnaire answered by the parents. Children's exposure to outdoor air pollution, including nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ), sulfur dioxide (SO 2 ), and particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤ 10 μm (PM 10 ), was estimated using the measured concentrations at monitoring stations. Association between childhood pneumonia and exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution during both prenatal and postnatal periods were examined by using logistic regression model in terms of odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results Life-time prevalence of pneumonia in preschool children in Changsha is high, up to 38.6%.We found that childhood pneumonia was associated with postnatal exposure to outdoor particulate air pollutant PM 10 , adjusted OR (95% CI) = 1.26 (1.00–1.57) for per 6 μg/m 3 increase in the concentration. Pneumonia was also associated with postnatal exposure to indoor renovation, adjusted OR (95% CI) = 1.30 (1.02–1.64) for new furniture and 1.30 (1.00–1.69) for redecoration. Combined exposure to outdoor high PM 10 and indoor renovation significantly increased the pneumonia risk. Sensitivity analysis indicated that the association was heterogeneous in different subgroups, but stronger in male and younger children. Conclusion High prevalence of childhood pneumonia in China may be associated with postnatal exposure to ambient particulate air pollution and house renovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The urbanization and industrialization in China is accompanied by bad air quality, and the prevalence of asthma in Chinese children has been increasing in recent years. To investigate the associations between ambient PM 2.5 levels and asthmatic and allergic diseases or symptoms in preschool children in China, we assigned PM 2.5 exposure data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) project to 205 kindergartens at a spatial resolution of 0.1° × 0.1° in six cities in China (Shanghai, Nanjing, Chongqing, Changsha, Urumqi, and Taiyuan). A hierarchical multiple logistical regression model was applied to analyze the associations between kindergarten-level PM 2.5 exposure and individual-level outcomes of asthmatic and allergic symptoms. The individual-level variables, including gender, age, family history of asthma and allergic diseases, breastfeeding, parental smoking, indoor dampness, interior decoration pollution, household annual income, and city-level variable-annual temperature were adjusted. A total of 30,759 children (average age 4.6 years, 51.7% boys) were enrolled in this study. Apart from family history, indoor dampness, and decoration as predominant risk factors, we found that an increase of 10 μg/m 3 of the annual PM 2.5 was positively associated with the prevalence of allergic rhinitis by an odds ratio (OR) of 1.20 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.11, 1.29) and diagnosed asthma by OR of 1.10 (95% CI 1.03, 1.18). Those who lived in non-urban (vs. urban) areas were exposed to more severe indoor air pollution arising from biomass combustion and had significantly higher ORs between PM 2.5 and allergic rhinitis and current rhinitis. Our study suggested that long-term exposure to PM 2.5 might increase the risks of asthmatic and allergic diseases or symptoms in preschool children in China. Compared to those living in urban areas, children living in suburban or rural areas had a higher risk of PM 2.5 exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silkworm pupae oil (SPO) was regarded as a good alternative to alpha-linolenic acid supplements, which contain a variety of triacylglyceride with high nutritional value. To investigate the connections between triacylglyceride composition and lipid gastrointestinal digestive absorption profiles, isolation and bioavailability of triacylglyceride monomers from silkworm pupae oil was analyzed. In this study, two triacylglyceride monomers rich in α -linolenic acid were separated by preparative liquid chromatography, namely LnLnLn (1,2,3- α -linolenic acid triacylglyceride) and LnLnL (1,2- α -linolenic acid, 3- linoleic acid triacylglyceride). The in vitro digestion in the pH-stat model results showed the digestive rate of LnLnLn was 0.4101 ± 0.0089 s−1, which was significantly higher than that of SPO (0.2494 ± 0.0108 s−1) (p < 0.05). The in vitro absorption in the Caco-2 cells model results showed the absorptivity of LnLnLn and LnLnL were 6.40 ± 0.19% and 6.06 ± 0.54%, which were significantly higher than SPO (5.43 ± 0.51%) (p < 0.05). In addition, the mRNA expression levels of lipid metabolism-related proteins provide evidence for the absorption superiority of LnLnLn and LnLnL. The present work provides novel structural lipids for rapid and efficient supplementation of α -linolenic acid. [Display omitted] • Pre-LC was used for the firstly in the separation of triglyceride monomers in SPO. • Two kinds of triglyceride monomers were separated and identified, namely LnLnLn, LnLnL. • The hydrolysis rate constants of triglyceride were PPP > LnLnLn > OOO > LLL > LnLnL > SPO. • Triglyceride absorption rate of triglyceride were LnLnLn ≈ PPP ≈ OOO ≈ LnLnL > LLL ≈ SPO. • The superiority of LnLnLn and LnLnL were evidenced by the gastrointestinal digestion fates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background There is some evidence that dampness, mould and cockroaches can increase the risk of respiratory infections in children but few studies exist from China on this topic. Aim To study associations between domestic early life exposure to biological indoor factors (dampness, mould, cats, dogs, rats, cockroaches), cleaning habits and common cold among pre-school children across China. Methods Children aged 3–6 years (n = 39,782) were recruited from randomly selected day care centres in seven cities in China. Data on common cold and prenatal and postnatal exposure to dampness, mould, windowpane condensation in wintertime (WPC), cats, dogs, cockroaches and rats were assessed by a parentally administered questionnaire. Data on annual ambient temperature and PM 10 was assessed on city level. Associations between high frequency (> 5 colds per year) and long duration (≥ 2 weeks) of common colds in the past year and exposure were calculated by multilevel logistic regression. Results A total of 9.2% had a high frequency and 11.9% had long duration of common cold. Exposure to mould (OR = 1.38, 95% CI 1.24–1.53) and WPC (OR 1.23, 95%CI 1.13–1.33) at birth was associated with frequent common cold. Exposure to dogs at birth was associated with long duration of common cold. (OR = 1.22, 95% CI 1.06–1.41). Exposure to mould (OR = 1.36, 95% CI 1.22–1.54), WPC (OR = 1.27, 95%CI 1.17–1.39) and water leakage (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.20–1.49) in the current home was associated with frequent common cold. Presence of cockroaches were positively (OR = 1.12, 95% CI 1.02–1.24) and presence of rats (OR = 0.86, 95% CI 0.77–0.96) negatively associated with high frequency of common cold. Daily cleaning was negatively associated with frequent common cold (OR = 0.89, 95% CI 0.81–0.97). Similar associations for mould, WPC, cockroaches and rats were found for long duration. Ambient PM 10 (OR = 1.21, 95% CI 1.21–1.35 per 10 μg/m 3 ) and temperature (OR = 1.13, 95% CI 1.06–1.35 °C) on city level were associated with high frequency of common cold. Associations between cat keeping and high frequency of common cold were found only in southern China. Associations with cockroaches were stronger in northern China. Associations with dampness and mould were the same in the north and south. Conclusions Indoor mould, water damage, windowpane condensation, cockroaches and keeping cats or dogs as pets can be risk factors for common cold while daily cleaning can be protective factor. PM 10 and a warmer climate zone can be other risk factors for common cold. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Otitis media (OM) is a common infection in early childhood with repeated attacks that lead to long-term complications and sequelae, but its etiology still remains unclear. Objective To examine the association between early life exposure to air pollution and childhood OM, with the purpose of identifying critical windows of exposure and key components of air pollution in the development of OM. Methods We conducted a prospective cohort study of 1617 children aged 3–4 years in Changsha, China (2011–2012). The prevalence of OM was assessed by a questionnaire administered by the parents. Individual exposures to nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ), sulfur dioxide (SO 2 ) and particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤ 10 μm (PM 10 ) during prenatal, postnatal, and current windows were estimated using the measured concentrations at monitoring stations. We used logistic regression model to examine the OM risk in terms of odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for exposure to different air pollutants during different timing windows, adjusting for covariates, multi-pollutants, and multi-windows. Results Life-time prevalence of doctor-diagnosed OM in preschool children in Changsha was 7.3%. Childhood OM was associated only with prenatal exposure to the industrial air pollution with adjusted OR (95% CI) = 1.44 (1.09–1.88) for a 27 μg/m3 increase in SO 2 , particularly during the first trimester of pregnancy. We further found that prenatal SO 2 exposure was not associated with the repeated attacks but was associated with the onset of OM, adjusted OR (95% CI) = 1.47 (1.10–1.96). The association between prenatal SO 2 exposure and early childhood OM was robust after adjusting for other pollutants and windows. Sensitivity analysis indicated that the association was stronger in females, children with parental atopy, and children living in houses with cockroaches, new redecoration, and condensation on window pane during winter. Conclusion We provide new evidence that prenatal exposure to industrial air pollution is associated with early childhood OM in China and may contribute to the onset of childhood OM. Our findings are helpful in developing more effective preventative strategies for childhood OM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Childhood pneumonia is one of the leading single causes of mortality and morbidity in children worldwide, but its etiology still remains unclear. Objective We investigate the association between childhood pneumonia and exposure to diurnal temperature variation (DTV) in different timing windows. Methods We conducted a prospective cohort study of 2,598 children aged 3–6 years in Changsha, China. The lifetime prevalence of pneumonia was assessed by a questionnaire administered by the parents. Individual exposure to DTV during both prenatal and postnatal periods was estimated. Logic regression models was used to examine the association between childhood pneumonia and DTV exposure in terms of odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results Lifetime prevalence of childhood pneumonia in preschool children in Changsha was high up to 38.6%. We found that childhood pneumonia was significantly associated with prenatal DTV exposure, with adjusted OR (95%CI) =1.19 (1.02–1.38), particularly during the second trimester. However, childhood pneumonia not associated with postnatal DTV exposure. Sensitivity analysis indicated that boys are more susceptible to the pneumonia risk of diurnal temperature variation than girls. We further observed that the prevalence of childhood pneumonia was decreased in recent years as DTV shrinked. Conclusions Early childhood pneumonia was associated with prenatal exposure to the diurnal temperature variation (DTV) during pregnancy, particularly in the second trimester, which suggests fetal origin of childhood pneumonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Otitis media (OM) is a common infection in early childhood with repeated attacks that lead to long-term complications and sequelae, but its risk factors still remain unclear. Objective To examine the risk of childhood OM for different indoor and outdoor air pollutants during different timing windows, with a purpose to identify critical windows of exposure and key components of air pollution in the development of OM. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 1617 children aged 3–4 years in Changsha, China (2011–2012). Children's life-time prevalence of OM and exposure to indoor air pollution related to home renovation activities were surveyed by a questionnaire administered by the parents. Children's exposure to outdoor air pollution, including nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ), sulfur dioxide (SO 2 ), and particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤ 10 μm (PM 10 ), was estimated using the measured concentrations at municipal monitoring stations. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of childhood OM for prenatal and postnatal exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution were examined by using logistic regression model. Results Life-time prevalence of OM in preschool children (7.3%) was associated not only with prenatal exposure to industrial air pollutant with adjusted OR (95% CI) = 1.44 (1.09–1.88) for a 27 μg/m 3 increase in SO 2 but also with postnatal exposure to indoor renovations with OR (95% CI) = 1.62 (1.05–2.49) for new furniture and 1.81 (1.12–2.91) for redecoration, particularly in girls. Combined exposure to outdoor SO 2 and indoor renovation significantly increased OM risk. Furthermore, we found that exposure to outdoor SO 2 and indoor renovation were significantly associated with the onset but not repeated attacks of OM. Conclusion Prenatal exposure to outdoor industrial air pollution and postnatal exposure to indoor renovation are independently associated with early childhood OM in China and may cause the OM onset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Evidence linking prenatal exposure to outdoor air pollution with eczema in early childhood is scare, and the role of components of air pollution and exposure timing remains unclear. Objectives We investigated the association between exposure to air pollution during preconceptional and perinatal period and the risk of eczema in preschool children. Methods We conducted a prospective cohort study of 2598 children aged 3–6 years in Changsha, China. The prevalence of eczema was assessed by a standardized health questionnaire administered by the parents. Individual exposures to nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ), sulfur dioxide (SO 2 ) and particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤ 10 μm (PM 10 ) during the 4th-6th and 1st-3rd month before pregnancy, entire pregnancy, and three trimesters were estimated by an inverse distance weighted (IDW) method based on concentrations measured at monitoring stations. Association between childhood eczema and exposure to air pollution was examined by logistic regression models in terms of odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for an interquartile range (IQR) increase in exposure. Results Life-time prevalence of eczema in preschool children in Changsha was 28.6%. Childhood eczema was associated with traffic-related air pollutant NO 2 during 3 months before pregnancy and entire pregnancy with adjusted ORs = 1.19 (95% CI: 1.04–1.37) and 1.21 (95% CI: 1.03–1.42) respectively. The highest risk of eczema was observed for the 1st trimester exposure to NO 2 [OR = 1.26 (95% CI: 1.09–1.46)]. However, no association was detected for SO 2 and PM 10 exposure during any window. High-level exposure to NO 2 during the whole time period significantly increased the effect of NO 2 in all windows on eczema risk as compared with low-level exposure. Sensitivity analysis indicated that the association between both preconceptional and perinatal exposure to NO 2 and childhood eczema was consistent and robust, and this association was modified by some personal, parental hereditary and indoor environmental factors. Conclusion Our findings support the hypothesis that early childhood eczema is associated with exposure to traffic-related air pollutant during both preconceptional and perinatal period, especially at a high level of exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food allergy increased in the recent years causing heavy disease burden worldwide, yet the unique factors for the second-wave allergy epidemic since a rise of allergic diseases are unclear. To examine the impact of introduction timing of complementary foods on childhood food allergy and whether ambient air pollution modify this association. A retrospective cohort study of 2,598 preschoolers was conducted at 36 kindergartens at Changsha of China during 2011–2012. A standard questionnaire was developed to survey each preschooler's introduction timing of complementary foods, food allergy, and home environments. Each subject's exposure to ambient air pollutants including PM 10 , SO 2 , and NO 2 was estimated for pregnancy and postnatal period. Association between food allergy and introduction timing of complementary foods as well as its modification by ambient pollution were evaluated by multiple logistic regression model. Childhood total food allergy (14.6%) was significantly positively associated with early introduction to fruit or vegetable before 3 months with OR = 1.97 (1.25–3.11), especially for egg and milk allergies. Food allergy was also significantly associated with NO 2 exposure in pregnancy especially during the 1st trimester with ORs (95% CI) = 1.24 (1.00–1.54) and 1.27 (1.03–1.58) and postnatal period with OR of 1.30 (1.01–1.66) respectively for per IQR increase in their exposure. We observed that living near traffic-main road and other areas significantly increased food allergy risk of early introduction of fruit and vegetable. We further detected that early introduction of milk powder or porridge significantly decreased the risk of food allergy at the condition of light outdoor air pollution exposure during postnatal period. Sensitivity analysis showed that children living at urban area, male sex, younger age, and having breast-feeding were more susceptible to the effect of early introduction of fruit and vegetable on food allergy. Our study indicates that the role of introduction timing of complementary foods on food allergy could be adjusted by air pollution exposure level, which may partly explain the second-wave allergy epidemic and provide a potential preventive strategy. [Display omitted] • Childhood food allergy was associated with early introduction of fruit and vegetable before 3 months. • Food allergy was related to NO 2 exposure in pregnancy especially 1st trimester and postnatal stage. • Living near traffic area increased food allergy risk of early introduction of fruits and vegetables. • Low air pollution increased protective effect of early introduction of food allergens on food allergy. • Air pollution modified effect of solid food addition at different time on food allergy development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancers are three major gynecological cancers (GCs) leading to heavy disease burden and high mortality among women worldwide, which are associated with environmental exposure. However, the role of air pollution and temperature on GCs remains unclear. To assess the combined effects of short-term, medium-term, and long-term exposure to ambient air pollution and temperature indicators on GCs in women. A case-control study was conducted in XiangYa Hospital from 2010 to 2018 at Changsha, China. A standard questionnaire was designed to collect the health status and personal factors of 305 cases with GCs including cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancers and 399 healthy women as control group. Personal exposure to ambient air pollution (PM 10 , SO 2 , and NO 2), temperature, and diurnal temperature variation (DTV) during past one year, past five years, and past ten years was calculated by inverse distance weighted (IDW) method based on each subject's home address. Multiple logistic regression model was used to analyse the relationship of GCs with outdoor air pollution and temperature indicators. Exposure to NO 2 during past five years and past ten years was significantly associated with GCs, with adjusted ORs (95% CI) of 1.40 (1.02–1.91) and 1.41 (1.03–1.93). Furthermore, an increase in temperature during past ten years was related with GCs, with OR (95% CI) = 1.95 (1.16–3.25). We strikingly found that high temperature increased the effect of long-term exposure to PM 10 and NO 2 during past ten years on GCs, while low DTV elevated GCs risk of air pollution exposure. Sensitivity analysis suggests that some specific subjects were more susceptible to the effect of air pollution and temperature indicators on GCs. Relatively long-term exposure to traffic-related air pollution (NO 2) and increased temperature played important roles in the development of women's GCs. There may be interactions between air pollution and temperature indicators on GCs. [Display omitted] • Exposure to NO 2 longer than 5 and 10 years was associated with gynecological cancers (GCs). • Long-term exposure to an increase in temperature elevated GC risk. • High temperature significantly increased effect of long-term exposure to NO 2 on GCs. • Low diurnal temperature variation elevated GT risk of PM 10 and/or NO 2 exposure. • There are interactions of traffic-related air pollution and temperature indicators on risk of GCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Otitis media (OM) is a common pediatric infectious disease worldwide. Increasing evidence have associated indoor environment with OM, yet the role of home environmental factor(s) exposure during which critical window(s) on childhood OM are unclear. To examine the association between indoor environmental factors exposure and childhood OM, to identify main indoor factor(s) and key window(s). A retrospective cohort study involving 8689 preschoolers aged 3–6 was performed in Changsha, China. The data about each child's health outcome and home environments was obtained through a standard questionnaire. Exposure timing windows included 1 year before pregnancy, pregnancy, first year of life, and past year. Multiple logistic regression models were used to analyze the association between indoor environmental factors and childhood OM. We found that exposure to mold/damp stains and mold/damp clothes or bedding during preconceptional, prenatal, and postnatal periods was consistently associated with childhood OM, with ORs ranged from 1.25 (1.02–1.54) to 1.38 (1.13–1.68). Past year was identified as a critical time window for mold/damp stains exposure in relation to OM risk. We further found that exposures to new furniture during pregnancy and environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) and grandparental smoking during first year were significantly associated with an increase in childhood OM, with ORs (95% CI) = 1.28 (1.00–1.64), 1.20 (1.01–1.42), and 1.21 (1.00–1.48). Moreover, current exposure to total plants especially for non-flowering plants significantly increased OM risk, with ORs (95% CI) = 1.23 (1.05–1.44) and 1.25 (1.06–1.46). The association between early life exposure to indoor environmental factors and OM was stronger among children living near traffic roads. Outdoor air pollution and temperature could modify the effect of indoor environmental exposure on childhood OM. Our sensitivity analysis indicated that some subgroups were more susceptible to OM risk of indoor exposure. Our findings suggest that exposure to home environmental factors played an important role in childhood OM, and the association can be interacted by outdoor air pollution and temperature. [Display omitted] • Both pre- and post-birth exposure to home environmental factors increase risk of childhood OM. • Dampness related indoor allergen plays a key role in the development of otitis media. • Renovation exposure in pregnancy was associated with an increase in childhood otitis media. • Current period was identified as the critical time window for OM risk of home environment. • Our study supports a hypothesis of "Fetal origin of childhood OM" by indoor exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A questionnaire survey was performed in eight Chinese cities (40,279 adults participated; response rate 75%). There were questions on demographic information of the participants, allergic rhinitis, asthma, perceived odors and home environment. The majority were women (74.7%) and 12.2% were smokers; 6.6% reported allergic rhinitis and 1.6% reported asthma. Totally 38% reported stuffy odor; 24.6% unpleasant odor; 11.5% pungent odor and 10.4% mold odor. Reporting of condensation on window panes were common (62.1%); visible mold or dampness stains (21.9%) and water damage (14.7%) were less common. All dampness indicators were associated with allergic rhinitis and asthma (OR = 1.34–1.87) and all odors (OR = 1.79–6.17). All odors were associated with allergic rhinitis and asthma (OR = 1.23–4.51). Odor perception was partly a mediator of the effects of mold and dampness on allergic rhinitis (% of total effect mediated: 2.7–9.8%) and asthma (2.2–10.7%) when adjusting for other home environment factors. Increased mediation effects for allergic rhinitis (% of total effect mediated: 11.2–17.4%) and asthma (% of total effect mediated: 5.5–14.7%) were found for total odor score (0–8) as compared to the mediation effects for four single odors. In conclusion, mold and dampness in dwellings were associated with adult allergic rhinitis, asthma and odors. Different odors were related to allergic rhinitis and asthma. Some of the effects of mold/dampness on allergic rhinitis and asthma were indirect effect mediated by odors from damp buildings, but most of the effects were direct effects. • Mold and dampness were associated with allergic rhinitis and asthma. • Mold and dampness were related to odor perceptions. • Different types of odors were associated with allergic rhinitis and asthma. • Odors were partly mediators of the effects of indoor dampness on rhinitis and asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mounting studies have associated asthma with environmental and climatic factors, but their interaction during pregnancy on childhood asthma are unclear. This study aims to investigate the interaction of in utero air pollution and environmental temperature exposure on childhood asthma, to identify key timing windows for exposure. A retrospective cohort study with 2,598 pre-schoolers was conducted during 2011–2012 in Changsha, China. Maternal exposure to three critical ambient air pollutants (PM 10 , SO 2 and NO 2 , as proxies of industrial and vehicular air pollution) and temperature (T), was assessed for the 40 gestational weeks, three trimesters of gestation, and entire pregnancy by an inverse distance weighted (IDW) method. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association of childhood asthma with air pollution and temperature exposure. Our results showed that pre-schooler's asthma was significantly associated with SO 2 and NO 2 exposure in utero, ORs = 1.46 (95% CI: 1.12–1.89) and 1.67 (95% CI: 1.24–2.26) by inter quartile range (IQR) increase of their exposure respectively. Significant risk was observed for exposure of SO 2 and NO 2 particularly during the 1st and 2nd trimesters and their specific gestational weeks. Pre-schooler's asthma was related with high temperature exposure during 1st trimester, OR = 2.33 (95% CI: 1.11–4.90) by IQR increase of T exposure. Low T and high T respectively increased the asthma risk of NO 2 exposure in the 1st and 3rd trimester. Boys were more susceptible to the temperature-pollution interaction on asthma development. Our study indicates that low and high temperature respectively during early and late pregnancy significantly increased the impact of air pollution exposure in utero on pre-schooler's asthma. [Display omitted] • Childhood asthma was mainly associated with prenatal exposure to SO 2 and NO 2 in pregnancy. • Asthma was related with high temperature (T) and more summer days in the 1st trimester. • Low T in 1st trimester and high T in 3rd trimester increased asthma risk of NO 2 exposure. • Boys were more susceptible to the temperature-pollution interaction on asthma risk. • Our study supports the hypothesis of "fetal origin of allergy" via temperature-pollution interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indoor environment is associated with the sick building syndrome (SBS), but little is known about the contribution of outdoor air pollution and meteorological conditions to SBS. We studied associations between outdoor air pollution, meteorological parameters and selected indoor exposure and building characteristics at home and weekly SBS symptoms in a standardized questionnaire study among 3485 randomly selected adults in China. Outdoor factors included particulate matters with diameter < 10 μm (PM 10 ), sulfur dioxide (SO 2 ), nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ), outdoor temperature (T), relative air humidity (RH), and wind speed (WS) during last three months. Multiple logistic regression was applied calculating odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Asthma or allergic rhinitis (atopy) was associated with all types of SBS symptoms except fatigue. Indoor factors played a major role in SBS symptoms. Mold/dampness on the floor/ceiling was associated with fatigue OR = 1.60 (1.11–2.30) and headache OR = 1.80 (1.07–3.04). Moldy odor was associated with fatigue OR = 1.59 (1.07–2.37) and dermal symptoms OR = 1.91 (1.21–3.02). Window pane condensation in winter was associated with fatigue OR = 1.73 (1.30–2.31) and throat symptoms OR = 1.53 (1.01–2.31). Damp bed clothing was related with throat symptom OR = 1.62 (1.09–2.40). Home redecoration was associated with fatigue OR = 1.49 (1.07–2.06). Frequent window opening was associated with less nose symptoms OR = 0.54 (0.36–0.82) and mechanical ventilation in the bathroom reduced dermal symptoms OR = 0.66 (0.44–0.99). Females were more susceptible to redecoration and window pane condensation than men. No associations with SBS were observed for outdoor air pollutants or meteorological parameters in the final models combining indoor and outdoor factors, although SO 2 , T, and RH were associated with some SBS symptoms (fatigue, eyes and nose symptoms) in the separate outdoor models. In conclusion, indoor mold/dampness, air pollution from redecoration and poorer ventilation conditions in dwellings can be risk factors for SBS symptoms in an adult Chinese population, especially among females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Environmental factors have been found to be associated with allergic diseases, but it is unclear which environmental factor during which exposure window causes what kind of allergic diseases. Objectives We investigated association between exposure to some predominant outdoor and indoor environmental factors during preconceptional, prenatal, and postnatal periods and allergic diseases/symptoms in 2598 children in China. Methods Children's lifetime incidence of allergic diseases and current prevalence of allergic symptoms and exposure to indoor new furniture/redecoration and mold/dampness was surveyed by a questionnaire. Exposure to outdoor air pollutants was estimated by the concentrations measured at air quality monitoring stations. Multiple logistic regression model was used to evaluate the associations between outdoor air pollutants and indoor environmental factors and allergic diseases (asthma, allergic rhinitis, and eczema) and symptoms (wheezing, night cough, and rhinitis-like). Results We found that preconceptional, prenatal, and postnatal exposure to outdoor industrial and traffic air pollutants were significantly associated with increase in the risk of childhood asthma, and also positively associated with allergic rhinitis and eczema. However, we cannot distinguish the effect of outdoor air pollutants and exposure windows because of their high correlations. New furniture was associated with eczema and allergic rhinitis during postnatal exposure, but redecoration associated with asthma and eczema during prenatal exposure. Indoor visible mold/damp stains was significant for eczema during prenatal exposure and asthma during postnatal exposure respectively, but window condensation was significant for all childhood allergic diseases during both prenatal and postnatal exposures. Allergic symptoms in children were found to be associated with exposure to indoor factors only. Conclusions Associations between outdoor air pollutants and indoor environmental factors and childhood allergic diseases/symptoms were divergent and related to the timing of exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent rapid increase of childhood asthma in China should be associated with exposure to the high air pollution, but it is unclear to which exposure window, to which kind of air pollution, and to what extent the effect. We investigated the effect of early life exposure to both outdoor and indoor air pollution on childhood asthma. Questionnaire survey was administered to 2490 children aged 3–6 years in Changsha. Early life exposure of each child in utero and during the first year of life was evaluated based on three outdoor air pollutants, i.e. particulate matters (PM 10 ), industry-related SO 2 and traffic-related NO 2 , and two kinds of indoor air pollution represented by new furniture and redecoration. Multivariate logistic regression method was used to estimate the effect of exposure on asthma. Results indicated that exposure to both industry- and traffic-related air pollutants (SO 2 and NO 2 ) significantly increased childhood asthma with odds ratio = 1.07 (95% CI: 1.03–1.12) and 1.16 (1.00–1.35) in utero and 1.09 (1.04–1.15) and 1.26 (1.06–1.50) during the first year for 10 μg/m 3 increase in concentration. Exposure to new furniture and home redecoration during pregnancy significantly increased childhood asthma with odds ratio 2.34 (1.16–4.74) and 2.21 (1.29–3.81) respectively. The effects of outdoor and indoor exposures were independent to each other. We conclude that early life exposures to both outdoor air pollution and indoor renovation contributes to the rapid development of childhood asthma in China, the former stronger after birth but the latter stronger before birth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Early life exposure to traffic pollutant nitrogen dioxide (NO 2) plays a key role in childhood asthma. • Pre- or post-natal exposure to increased temperature and extreme hot day elevates asthma risk. • Co-exposure to both high temperatures and air pollution significantly increases risk of asthma. • Boys and younger children are more susceptible to postnatal heat-particle interaction on asthma. • Our study suggests a hypothesis of "fetal origin of asthma" via temperature-pollution interaction. Although mounting evidence has associated air pollution and environmental temperature with children's health problems, it is unclear whether there is an interaction between these factors on childhood asthma. To explore the effects of temperature-pollution interactions during pre- and post-natal periods on asthma among pre-schoolers. A retrospective cohort study of 39,782 pre-schoolers was performed during 2010–2012, in seven cities in China. Exposure to three temperature indicators (TI) and three critical ambient air pollutants, including particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤ 10 μm (PM 10), sulfur dioxide (SO 2) and nitrogen dioxide (NO 2) as proxies of industrial and vehicular air pollution, was estimated by an inverse distance weighted (IDW) method. Two-level logistical regression analysis was used to examine the association between both pre- and post-natal exposure and childhood asthma in terms of odds ratio (OR) and 95 % confidence interval (CI). Asthma prevalence in pre-schoolers at age of 3–6 years (6.9 %) was significantly associated with traffic-related air pollutant (NO 2) exposure, with ORs (95 % CI) of 1.17 (1.06, 1.28), 1.19 (1.05–1.34) and 1.16 (1.03–1.31) for an IQR increase in NO 2 exposure during lifetime, pregnancy, and entire postnatal period respectively. Furthermore, childhood asthma was positively associated with exposure to increased temperature during lifetime, pregnancy, and entire postnatal period with ORs (95 % CI) = 1.89 (1.66, 2.16), 1.47 (1.34, 1.61), and 1.15 (1.11, 1.18) respectively, while was negatively associated with decreased temperatures. Childhood asthma was positively related with exposure to extreme heat days (EHD) during postnatal period particularly in first year of life respectively with ORs (95 % CI) = 1.23 (1.04, 1.46) and 1.26 (1.07, 1.47), but was not related with extreme cold days (ECD) exposure. A combination of high air pollutant levels and high temperatures significantly increased the risk of asthma during both pre- and post-natal periods. Strikingly, we found a significantly positive interaction of temperature and PM 10 or SO 2 on asthma risk among boys and younger children. Prenatal and postnatal exposure to ambient air pollution and high temperatures are independently and jointly associated with asthma risk in early childhood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low birth weight (LBW), as a major concern in public health, is now increasing worldwide, but its main indoor environmental factors remain unclear. We examined whether LBW including term-LBW (T-LBW) and preterm-LBW (P-LBW) was associated with maternal exposure to indoor environmental factors, with a purpose to identify the key indoor environmental factor(s) contributing to LBW. A nationwide retrospective cohort study of 30,735 pre-schoolers in six Chinese cities was performed from 2010 to 2012. One questionnaire survey was conducted to collect information on the pre-schoolers' birth outcomes and their maternal exposure of indoor environmental factors including new furniture, house redecoration, cooking fuels, mould/damp stains, and mouldy odour during pregnancy. Maternal exposure of traffic-related air pollutant (NO 2), industrial pollutant (SO 2), and inhalable particulate matter (PM 10), as well as meteorological parameters, was estimated in pregnancy. Associations of LBW, T-LBW and P-LBW with indoor environmental factors were evaluated by two-level (city-child) logistic regression models with an odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). We found that P-LBW (1.0%) and T-LBW (1.4%) prevalence were respectively associated with persistent mould/damp stains and mouldy odour exposure in utero, ORs = 1.81 (95% CI: 1.01–3.24) and 1.49 (95% CI: 1.01–2.21). Exposure to high temperature and PM 2.5 in pregnancy significantly enhanced the effect of persistent mould/damp stains and/or mouldy odour on P-LBW and LBW, ORs (95% CI) = 2.92 (1.40–6.07) and 1.78 (1.00–3.15) with significant interaction p values of 0.067 and 0.094 respectively. Sensitivity analysis suggested that raising cats and dogs significantly increased LBW risk of persistent mould/damp stains and mouldy odour exposure. Our findings indicate that long-term exposure to indoor mould/damp stains and mouldy odour in utero plays a key role in LBW, and this association can be significantly modified by some specific personal, indoor, and outdoor factors. [Display omitted] • Mould/damp stains exposure was significantly associated with term-low birth weight (LBW). • Maternal exposure to residential mouldy odour significantly increased the risk of preterm-LBW. • High temperature and PM 2.5 enhanced LBW risk of mould/damp stains and mouldy odour. • Families with pets were more susceptible to LBW risk of mould/damp stains and mouldy odour. • Our study has a new implication for the effective reduction and early prevention of LBW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In order to enhance power system reliability and manage network congestions, many power utilities around the world have deployed various forms of system protection schemes (SPS) in their systems. In a deregulated environment, SPS could offer immediate solutions to network congestion that are beneficial to both utilities and customers. This paper presents a framework for quantitative risk and benefit assessments of SPS operations. The risk of SPS operations and its effect to the system security are evaluated by a probabilistic risk assessment approach. The benefits obtainable from power market and the customer interruption costs resulting from SPS operations are appraised. The proposed methodology can be used by power system operators and planners to assess the applications of SPS for system reliability enhancement and compare different alternatives for managing network congestion. Numerical results obtained from an actual event-based SPS example are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small for gestational age (SGA) is a major public health problem that affects 32.4 million infants worldwide and its prevalence is increasing rapidly in new-borns. However, the key risk factors and their exposure time window on the development of SGA are unclear. We aim to investigate the association between exposure to outdoor air pollution and indoor environmental factors during which critical timing window and SGA, and to evaluate which specific personal factors modify this association. A retrospective cohort study of 3509 infants was conducted in Changsha, China during 2011–2012. A questionnaire survey was performed to obtain the formation on infant's birth outcomes and prenatal exposure of indoor environmental factors containing parental (maternal and/or paternal) smoking, new furniture, house redecoration, mold or dampness, window condensation, and keeping dogs in gestational age. Intrauterine exposure to industrial air pollutant (SO 2), traffic-related air pollutant (NO 2) and inhalable particulate matter (PM 10) was estimated during three trimesters and entire pregnancy. Associations between outdoor air pollutants and indoor environmental factors and SGA, term SGA (TSGA) and preterm SGA (PSGA) were assessed by multiple logistic regression model in terms of odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Prevalence of SGA (5.2%) and TSGA (4.9%) were significantly associated with intrauterine exposure to outdoor SO 2 during the entire gestational age with adjusted ORs (95% CI) of 1.08 (1.01–1.15) and 1.08 (1.00–1.15) for per 10 μg/m3 increase in SO 2 exposure after adjusting for the covariates, indoor environmental factors, and outdoor air temperature, and PSGA prevalence (0.3%) was significantly related with PM 10 exposure during whole pregnancy with odds = 2.21 (1.08–4.51). However, no association was observed for traffic-related air pollutant NO 2 exposure. Specifically, the association was more significant for SO 2 exposure during the 1st and/or 2nd trimester. We further found that TSGA and PSGA were associated with indoor exposure to parental smoking and new furniture, respectively, ORs (95% CI) = 1.46 (1.00–2.11) and 10.95 (1.46–81.95). We observed that the odds of SGA and TSGA attributed to SO 2 exposure in the first two trimesters was only significant among families with parental smoking and new furniture in gestation. Sensitivity analysis showed that infants with female sex and born in cold months were more susceptible to the effect of outdoor SO 2 exposure during the first two trimesters and entire gestational age on SGA and TSGA. On the other hand, infants born in the cold season and by a younger mother were more sensitive to the effect of indoor parental smoking in utero on SGA and TSGA. Maternal exposure to industry-related air pollution and indoor environmental risk factors during pregnancy, particularly during the first two trimesters, significantly increased SGA risk, and some specific personal factors could modify these associations. [Display omitted] • Industrial air pollution was associated with small for gestational age (SGA). • We identified the first two trimesters as critical windows for SGA development. • Parental smoking and new furniture in utero increased risk of term and preterm SGA. • Parental smoking amplifies the effect of outdoor industrial air pollution on SGA. • Personal factors could interact with air pollution in critical windows on SGA risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is mounting evidence that exposure to household dampness/mold (D/M) is the cause of respiratory, allergic diseases for children. While few research focuses on the effects caused by building environment changes, from a longitudinal investigation perspective, especially for China experiencing a rapid development in recent years. This study aimed to explore the changes of D/M in Chinese homes over the past 10 years and identify the impacts of climate, building energy efficiency and residents' behaviors. The cross-sectional surveys were repeatedly conducted in children' residences in 2010 (Period I) and 2019 (Period II), among Taiyuan, Urumqi in northern China, and Nanjing, Shanghai, Wuhan, Changsha, Chongqing in southern China. Finally, 23465 children in Period I and 34720 children in Period II were involved, with no changes of residences since birth. The results showed that the proportions for reported D/M indicators were significantly reduced in Period II: e.g., 93.8% and 84.1% residents respectively answered no visible mold spots and damp stains in current residences, compared to only 78.3% and 62.2% in Period I. Southern homes accounted for high proportions for D/M indicator occurrences; warm-humid climate, annual higher precipitation and lower sunshine hours, etc., exacerbated the indoor D/M exposure risks. While residents' behaviors like ventilation, airing quilt/beddings, regular cleaning ameliorated the reported D/M significantly. The findings, from a temporal and spacious dimension perspective, advance our understanding of indoor D/M changes, precisely improvement in children' homes over the past 10 years, benefiting to promote indoor air quality standards in China. • Epidemiological surveys for household environment and children health were repeated in China. • Temporal and spacious comparisons of Dampness/Mold were stratified by Period-District. • Proportions of D/M were reduced in residents regardless of district difference. • Southern homes reported higher proportions for D/M indicators due to climates. • Residents' behaviors like ventilation modified the D/M exposure risks significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In a competitive electric energy market, service quality and reliability are two of the essential issues of the business. Distribution automation has been chosen by many utilities around the world as one of the most reliable measures for reducing outage time in their distribution networks. Considering network reliability data and the customer interruption costs, a value-based planning method is proposed in this paper to find the optimal numbers and locations of switches in feeder automation systems. The proposed method takes reliability costs, maintenance and investment costs into account to obtain a feeder automation plan that has a maximum benefit and a proper system reliability requirement. Three stages are involved in the search for optimal solution. Using minimum feeder data and assume equally distributed feeder loads, stage 1 gives initial estimates of reliability indices and costs, and benefit/cost ratios of different feeder automation options. To gain the maximum benefits from feeder automation with reasonable costs, results of stage 1 are used to select feeders with highest priorities for automations. Stage 2 determines the optimum locations of switches that minimize feeder outage costs, and in stage 3, the best locations for tie switches in the automated network are determined. Numerical processing procedure is described and the solution efficiency and results are compared with those obtained from a genetic algorithm. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]