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Gutor SS, Salinas RI, Nichols DS, Bazzano JMR, Han W, Gokey JJ, Vasiukov G, West JD, Newcomb DC, Dikalova AE, Richmond BW, Dikalov SI, Blackwell TS, Polosukhin VV. Repetitive sulfur dioxide exposure in mice models post-deployment respiratory syndrome. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2024; 326:L539-L550. [PMID: 38410870 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00239.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Soldiers deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan have a higher prevalence of respiratory symptoms than nondeployed military personnel and some have been shown to have a constellation of findings on lung biopsy termed post-deployment respiratory syndrome (PDRS). Since many of the subjects in this cohort reported exposure to sulfur dioxide (SO2), we developed a model of repetitive exposure to SO2 in mice that phenocopies many aspects of PDRS, including adaptive immune activation, airway wall remodeling, and pulmonary vascular (PV) disease. Although abnormalities in small airways were not sufficient to alter lung mechanics, PV remodeling resulted in the development of pulmonary hypertension and reduced exercise tolerance in SO2-exposed mice. SO2 exposure led to increased formation of isolevuglandins (isoLGs) adducts and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) acetylation in endothelial cells, which were attenuated by treatment with the isoLG scavenger 2-hydroxybenzylamine acetate (2-HOBA). In addition, 2-HOBA treatment or Siruin-3 overexpression in a transgenic mouse model prevented vascular remodeling following SO2 exposure. In summary, our results indicate that repetitive SO2 exposure recapitulates many aspects of PDRS and that oxidative stress appears to mediate PV remodeling in this model. Together, these findings provide new insights regarding the critical mechanisms underlying PDRS.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We developed a mice model of "post-deployment respiratory syndrome" (PDRS), a condition in Veterans with unexplained exertional dyspnea. Our model successfully recapitulates many of the pathological and physiological features of the syndrome, revealing involvement of the ROS-isoLGs-Sirt3-SOD2 pathway in pulmonary vasculature pathology. Our study provides additional knowledge about effects and long-term consequences of sulfur dioxide exposure on the respiratory system, serving as a valuable tool for future PDRS research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey S Gutor
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Rodrigo I Salinas
- Department of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
| | - David S Nichols
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Julia M R Bazzano
- Department of Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
| | - Wei Han
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Jason J Gokey
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Georgii Vasiukov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - James D West
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Dawn C Newcomb
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Anna E Dikalova
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Bradley W Richmond
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Sergey I Dikalov
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Timothy S Blackwell
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Vasiliy V Polosukhin
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
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Savitz DA, Woskie SR, Bello A, Gaither R, Gasper J, Jiang L, Rennix C, Wellenius GA, Trivedi AN. Deployment to Military Bases With Open Burn Pits and Respiratory and Cardiovascular Disease. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e247629. [PMID: 38662371 PMCID: PMC11046344 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.7629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Many veterans who served in Afghanistan and Iraq during Operations Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) were deployed to military bases with open burn pits and exposed to their emissions, with limited understanding of the long-term health consequences. Objective To determine the association between deployment to military bases where open burn pits were used for waste disposal and the subsequent risk of developing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Design, Setting, and Participants This retrospective observational cohort study used Veterans Health Administration medical records and declassified deployment records from the Department of Defense to assess Army and Air Force veterans who were deployed between 2001 and 2011 and subsequently received health care from the Veterans Health Administration, with follow-up through December 2020. Data were analyzed from January 2023 through February 2024. Exposure Duration of deployment to military bases with open burn pits. Main Outcomes and Measures Diagnosis of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, interstitial lung disease, hypertension, myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, ischemic stroke, and hemorrhagic stroke. Results The study population included 459 381 OEF and OIF veterans (mean [SD] age, 31.6 [8.7] years; 399 754 [87.0%] male). Median (IQR) follow-up from end of deployment was 10.9 (9.4-12.7) years. For every 100 days of deployment to bases with burn pits, veterans experienced increased adjusted odds for asthma (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.01; 95% CI, 1.01-1.02), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (aOR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.02-1.07), hypertension (aOR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.02-1.03), and ischemic stroke (aOR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.97-1.14). Odds of interstitial lung disease, myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, or hemorrhagic stroke were not increased. Results based on tertiles of duration of burn pit exposures were consistent with those from the continuous exposure measures. Conclusions and Relevance In this cohort study, prolonged deployment to military bases with open burn pits was associated with increased risk of developing asthma, COPD, and hypertension. The results also point to a possible increased risk in ischemic stroke. The novel ability to use integrated data on deployment and health outcomes provides a model for additional studies of the health impact of environmental exposures during military service.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A. Savitz
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Susan R. Woskie
- University of Massachusetts Lowell, Department of Public Health, Lowell
| | - Anila Bello
- University of Massachusetts Lowell, Department of Public Health, Lowell
| | - Rachel Gaither
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
| | | | - Lan Jiang
- Center of Innovation in Long-term Services and Supports for Vulnerable Veterans, Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Christopher Rennix
- Safety and Occupational Health Applied Sciences Department, Keene State College, Keene, New Hampshire
- Alexa Research and Engineering, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Gregory A. Wellenius
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Amal N. Trivedi
- Center of Innovation in Long-term Services and Supports for Vulnerable Veterans, Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island
- Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
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Bloeser K, Kimber JM, Santos SL, Krupka CB, McAndrew LM. Improving care for veterans' environmental exposure concerns: applications of the consolidated framework for implementation research in program evaluation. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:241. [PMID: 38395810 PMCID: PMC10893731 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10614-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthcare systems, like the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), need policies and procedures for delivering care to special populations including those with environmental exposure concerns. Despite being common and pervasive, especially among Veterans, environmental exposures are largely overlooked by healthcare providers. To successfully implement care for Veterans with military environmental exposure concerns, an understanding of contextual factors impeding care on the provider (e.g., knowledge and beliefs) and organizational (e.g., leadership's priorities) level is needed. Our goal was to conduct an operational needs assessment of providers to examine provider educational needs regarding Veterans' military environmental exposure concerns. METHODS In 2020, we surveyed 2,775 VA medical and behavioral health providers. Our cross-sectional assessment was informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and assessed barriers and facilitators to the uptake and application of knowledge regarding interdisciplinary care for environmental exposure concerns. The web-based survey was emailed to providers across the United States representing a variety of disciplines and practice settings to reflect the interdisciplinary approach to care for environmental exposures. We used bivariate statistics to investigate the intervention setting, inner setting, and individual characteristics of providers regarding care for environmental exposure concerns. RESULTS Approximately one-third of VA medical and behavioral health clinicians report low to no knowledge of environmental exposure concerns. We find 88% of medical and 91% of behavioral health providers report they are ready to learn more about environmental exposures. Half of medical and behavioral health providers report they have access to information on environmental exposures and less than half report care for environmental exposures is a priority where they practice. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest interdisciplinary providers' knowledge of and discussion with Veterans about environmental exposures may be influenced by contextual factors at the organizational level. Considering individual-level factors and organizational culture is important to consider when supporting care for environmental exposures. Since this needs assessment, VA established targeted programs to improve care related to military environmental exposures in response to legislation; future exploration of these same variables or contextual factors is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Bloeser
- The War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, The VA New Jersey Health Care System, 385 Tremont Avenue, East Orange, NJ, 07018, USA.
- The Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College, The City University of New York, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Justin M Kimber
- Buffalo VA Medical Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
- Russell Sage College, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Susan L Santos
- The War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, The VA New Jersey Health Care System, 385 Tremont Avenue, East Orange, NJ, 07018, USA
| | - Chana B Krupka
- The VA New York Harbor Health Care System, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Lisa M McAndrew
- The War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, The VA New Jersey Health Care System, 385 Tremont Avenue, East Orange, NJ, 07018, USA
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Williams LG, Ross D. Impact of poor air quality while deployed on respiratory health: a systematic review. BMJ Mil Health 2023:e002381. [PMID: 37336578 DOI: 10.1136/military-2023-002381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION British military personnel deploy internationally to areas with high levels of ambient air pollution. Air pollution can cause acute respiratory symptoms which lead to concern about potential long-lasting health effects. There is a requirement for evidence-based policy on chronic respiratory disease associated with military deployments to areas with poor air quality (AQ). This literature review examines the published evidence relating to the development of chronic respiratory disease in military personnel after exposure to poor AQ while deployed. METHODS A literature search was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Embase, MEDLINE and Global health databases were searched for English language studies published since 2014 examining the respiratory health of military personnel deployed to Southwest Asia since 2001. A quality appraisal of selected articles was conducted using the Critical Appraisals Skills Programme checklist and a descriptive review completed. RESULTS Eleven studies were found, eight of which had objective outcome measures. Two prospective cohort studies were included; the remainder of the data were retrospective. CONCLUSION High rates of respiratory symptoms are reported by personnel who deploy to areas of poor AQ, giving rise to high levels of concern. Spirometry testing has found mild deficits, mostly of an obstructive nature, in a third of those with ongoing symptoms post deployment. These have not been consistently linked with deployment length. An increased risk of asthma appears to be multi-factorial in aetiology and there is no evidence for an increased risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or histological pathology post deployment. At present, there is no definitive evidence of chronic respiratory disease due to exposure to poor AQ while deployed. Further objective longitudinal studies are required to continue to investigate the association, diagnosis and management of those with ongoing symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - D Ross
- AMS Support Unit, Army Medical Services, Camberley, UK
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Chen D, Lawrence KG, Sandler DP. Nontraditional Occupational Exposures to Crude Oil Combustion Disasters and Respiratory Disease Risk: A Narrative Review of Literature. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2023; 23:299-311. [PMID: 37166706 PMCID: PMC10330790 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-023-01078-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Burning of petroleum products has been consistently associated with adverse respiratory health effects. Combustion of crude oil, specifically, produces toxic byproducts, but there have been relatively few studies of health effects. Burning of crude oil is increasingly employed as a means of mitigating environmental disasters despite the potential health risks to workers involved in clean-up efforts. Here, we review epidemiological studies of respiratory effects following unique crude oil burning events to (1) characterize respiratory health effects from this nontraditional occupational exposure and (2) identify approaches used to characterize exposures that could be applied to future disaster-related studies. RECENT FINDINGS We searched PubMed and EMBASE for references from inception to January 30, 2023. We also manually screened references cited in eligible articles. We identified 14 eligible publications. Our review suggests that exposure to crude oil combustion has adverse respiratory effects, including reduced lung function and increased occurrence of respiratory symptoms and disease. However, the evidence is inconsistent, and quality of data varied across studies. While some studies used quantitative, modeled exposure estimates, most used self-reported proxies of exposure. Although disasters involving crude oil combustion are relatively rare, limited evidence suggests that some worker populations may be at risk for respiratory effects from burning exposures in disaster settings. Future studies that use improved exposure assessment methods (e.g., personal monitors, remote sensing data) may help further quantify the respiratory risk from crude oil burning exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dazhe Chen
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Kaitlyn G Lawrence
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Dale P Sandler
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
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Alexander T, Watson MA, Klein-Adams JC, Ndirangu DS, Serrador JM, Falvo MJ, Lindheimer JB. Deployed Veterans exhibit distinct respiratory patterns and greater dyspnea during maximal cardiopulmonary exercise: A case-control study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286015. [PMID: 37224153 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exertional dyspnea and exercise intolerance are frequently endorsed in Veterans of post 9/11 conflicts in Southwest Asia (SWA). Studying the dynamic behavior of ventilation during exercise may provide mechanistic insight into these symptoms. Using maximal cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) to experimentally induce exertional symptoms, we aimed to identify potential physiological differences between deployed Veterans and non-deployed controls. MATERIALS AND METHODS Deployed (n = 31) and non-deployed (n = 17) participants performed a maximal effort CPET via the Bruce treadmill protocol. Indirect calorimetry and perceptual rating scales were used to measure rate of oxygen consumption ([Formula: see text]), rate of carbon dioxide production ([Formula: see text]), respiratory frequency (f R), tidal volume (VT), minute ventilation ([Formula: see text]), heart rate (HR), perceived exertion (RPE; 6-20 scale), and dyspnea (Borg Breathlessness Scale; 0-10 scale). A repeated measures analysis of variance (RM-ANOVA) model (2 groups: deployed vs non-deployed X 6 timepoints: 0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100% [Formula: see text]) was conducted for participants meeting valid effort criteria (deployed = 25; non-deployed = 11). RESULTS Significant group (η2partial = 0.26) and interaction (η2partial = 0.10) effects were observed such that deployed Veterans exhibited reduced f R and a greater change over time relative to non-deployed controls. There was also a significant group effect for dyspnea ratings (η2partial = 0.18) showing higher values in deployed participants. Exploratory correlational analyses revealed significant associations between dyspnea ratings and fR at 80% (R2 = 0.34) and 100% (R2 = 0.17) of [Formula: see text], but only in deployed Veterans. CONCLUSION Relative to non-deployed controls, Veterans deployed to SWA exhibited reduced fR and greater dyspnea during maximal exercise. Further, associations between these parameters occurred only in deployed Veterans. These findings support an association between SWA deployment and affected respiratory health, and also highlight the utility of CPET in the clinical evaluation of deployment-related dyspnea in Veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Alexander
- VA Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits Center of Excellence, VA New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Matthew A Watson
- VA Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits Center of Excellence, VA New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Jacquelyn C Klein-Adams
- VA Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits Center of Excellence, VA New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Duncan S Ndirangu
- VA Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits Center of Excellence, VA New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Jorge M Serrador
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers - The State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Michael J Falvo
- VA Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits Center of Excellence, VA New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, New Jersey, United States of America
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers - The State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey, United States of America
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers - The State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Jacob B Lindheimer
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
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Gutor SS, Salinas RI, Nichols DS, Bazzano JMR, Han W, Gokey JJ, Vasiukov G, West JD, Newcomb DC, Dikalova AE, Richmond BW, Dikalov SI, Blackwell TS, Polosukhin VV. Repetitive Sulfur Dioxide Exposure in Mice Models Post-Deployment Respiratory Syndrome. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.15.540867. [PMID: 37292948 PMCID: PMC10245576 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.15.540867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Soldiers deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan have a higher prevalence of respiratory symptoms than non-deployed military personnel and some have been shown to have a constellation of findings on lung biopsy termed post-deployment respiratory syndrome (PDRS). Since many of the deployers in this cohort reported exposure to sulfur dioxide (SO 2 ), we developed a model of repetitive exposure to SO 2 in mice that phenocopies many aspects of PDRS, including adaptive immune activation, airway wall remodeling, and pulmonary vascular disease (PVD). Although abnormalities in small airways were not sufficient to alter lung mechanics, PVD was associated with the development of pulmonary hypertension and reduced exercise tolerance in SO 2 exposed mice. Further, we used pharmacologic and genetic approaches to demonstrate a critical role for oxidative stress and isolevuglandins in mediating PVD in this model. In summary, our results indicate that repetitive SO 2 exposure recapitulates many aspects of PDRS and that oxidative stress may mediate PVD in this model, which may be helpful for future mechanistic studies examining the relationship between inhaled irritants, PVD, and PDRS.
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8
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Bloeser K, McAdams M, McCarron KK, Varon S, Pickett L, Johnson I. Institutional Courage in Healthcare: An Improvement Project Exploring the Perspectives of Veterans Exposed to Airborne Hazards. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:bs13050423. [PMID: 37232660 DOI: 10.3390/bs13050423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Military environmental exposures and care for subsequent health concerns have been associated with institutional betrayal, or a perception on the part of veterans that the US government has failed to adequately prevent, acknowledge, and treat these conditions and in doing so has betrayed its promise to veterans. Institutional courage is a term developed to describe organizations that proactively protect and care for their members. While institutional courage may be useful in mitigating institutional betrayal, there is a lack of definitions of institutional courage in healthcare from the patient perspective. METHODS Using qualitative methods, we sought to explore the notions of institutional betrayal and institutional courage among veterans exposed to airborne hazards (i.e., airborne particulate matter such as open burn pits; N = 13) to inform and improve clinical practice. We performed initial interviews and follow-up interviews with veterans. RESULTS Veterans' depictions of courageous institutions contained key themes of being accountable, proactive, and mindful of unique experiences, supporting advocacy, addressing stigma related to public benefits, and offering safety. Veterans described institutional courage as including both individual-level traits and systems or organizational-level characteristics. CONCLUSIONS Several existing VA initiatives already address many themes identified in describing courageous institutions (e.g., accountability and advocacy). Other themes, especially views of public benefits and being proactive, hold particular value for building trauma-informed healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Bloeser
- The War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, The VA New Jersey Health Care System, 285 Tremont Ave., East Orange, NJ 07019, USA
- Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College, The City University of New York, New York, NY 10035, USA
| | | | - Kelly K McCarron
- The War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, The VA New Jersey Health Care System, 285 Tremont Ave., East Orange, NJ 07019, USA
| | - Samantha Varon
- The War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, The VA New Jersey Health Care System, 285 Tremont Ave., East Orange, NJ 07019, USA
| | - Lisa Pickett
- The War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, The VA New Jersey Health Care System, 285 Tremont Ave., East Orange, NJ 07019, USA
| | - Iman Johnson
- School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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9
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Vance SA, Kim YH, George IJ, Dye JA, Williams WC, Schladweiler MJ, Gilmour MI, Jaspers I, Gavett SH. Contributions of particulate and gas phases of simulated burn pit smoke exposures to impairment of respiratory function. Inhal Toxicol 2023; 35:129-138. [PMID: 36692431 PMCID: PMC10392891 DOI: 10.1080/08958378.2023.2169416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Inhalation of smoke from the burning of waste materials on military bases is associated with increased incidences of cardiopulmonary diseases. This study examined the respiratory and inflammatory effects of acute inhalation exposures in mice to smoke generated by military burn pit-related materials including plywood (PW), cardboard (CB), mixed plastics (PL), and a mixture of these three materials (MX) under smoldering (0.84 MCE) and flaming (0.97 MCE) burn conditions. METHODS Mice were exposed nose-only for one hour on two consecutive days to whole or filtered smoke or clean air alone. Smoldering combustion emissions had greater concentrations of PM (∼40 mg/m3) and VOCs (∼5-12 ppmv) than flaming emissions (∼4 mg/m3 and ∼1-2 ppmv, respectively); filtered emissions had equivalent levels of VOCs with negligible PM. Breathing parameters were assessed during exposure by head-out plethysmography. RESULTS All four smoldering burn pit emission types reduced breathing frequency (F) and minute volumes (MV) compared with baseline exposures to clean air, and HEPA filtration significantly reduced the effects of all smoldering materials except CB. Flaming emissions had significantly less suppression of F and MV compared with smoldering conditions. No acute effects on lung inflammatory cells, cytokines, lung injury markers, or hematology parameters were noted in smoke-exposed mice compared with air controls, likely due to reduced respiration and upper respiratory scrubbing to reduce the total deposited PM dose in this short-term exposure. CONCLUSION Our data suggest that material and combustion type influences respiratory responses to burn pit combustion emissions. Furthermore, PM filtration provides significant protective effects only for certain material types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel A. Vance
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
| | - Yong Ho Kim
- Public Health and Integrated Toxicology Division, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
| | - Ingrid J. George
- Air Methods and Characterization Division, Center for Environmental Measurements and Modeling, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
| | - Janice A. Dye
- Public Health and Integrated Toxicology Division, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
| | - Wanda C. Williams
- Public Health and Integrated Toxicology Division, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
| | - Mette J. Schladweiler
- Public Health and Integrated Toxicology Division, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
| | - M. Ian Gilmour
- Public Health and Integrated Toxicology Division, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
| | - Ilona Jaspers
- Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma and Lung Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
| | - Stephen H. Gavett
- Public Health and Integrated Toxicology Division, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
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Thyagarajan A, Rapp CM, Schneider L, Lund A, Travers JB, Sahu RP. Exposure to diesel exhaust particulates and desert sand dust generates microvesicle particles and platelet-activating factor agonists. Skin Res Technol 2023; 29:e13312. [PMID: 37113092 PMCID: PMC10234165 DOI: 10.1111/srt.13312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anita Thyagarajan
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyBoonshoft School of Medicine Wright State UniversityDaytonOhioUSA
| | - Christine M. Rapp
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyBoonshoft School of Medicine Wright State UniversityDaytonOhioUSA
| | | | - Amie Lund
- Department of Biological Sciences Environmental ToxicologyUniversity of North TexasDentonTexasUSA
| | - Jeffrey B. Travers
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyBoonshoft School of Medicine Wright State UniversityDaytonOhioUSA
- Department of DermatologyBoonshoft School of Medicine Wright State UniversityDaytonOhioUSA
- Department of MedicineDayton Veterans Administration Medical CenterDaytonOhioUSA
| | - Ravi P. Sahu
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyBoonshoft School of Medicine Wright State UniversityDaytonOhioUSA
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11
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Short-term PM exposure and social stress cause pulmonary and cardiac dysfunction. Toxicol Lett 2022; 370:66-73. [PMID: 36122649 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2022.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Ambient particulate matter (PM) exposure increases risk for cardiopulmonary health problems which may be exacerbated in a stressful environment. Co-exposure to PM and stress characterizes the experience of many deployed military personnel and first responders but has not been thoroughly investigated. This is especially relevant to military personnel who have been exposed to high PM levels in conjunction with stressful military conflict situations. To understand the mechanisms and time-course of the health consequences following burn pit exposure, we exposed mice to moderate levels of ambient PM less than 2.5 μM in diameter (PM2.5) alone or in combination with psychological stress. We found male mice exposed to PM2.5 alone or in combination with stress had significantly reduced pulmonary function when subjected to methacholine, indicating increased airway hyperreactivity. These mice experienced increased goblet cell hyperplasia in their lungs, with no change in alveolar density. Mice exposed to PM2.5 and/or stress also exhibited reduced cardiac contractility, right ventricular (RV) output, and changes in RV capillary density and cardiac inflammatory markers. Taken together, these data indicate that short-term exposure to PM2.5 with or without stress causes a clear reduction in pulmonary and cardiac function. We believe that this model is well-suited for the study of military and other occupational exposures, and future work will identify potential mechanisms, including the inflammatory progression of these co-exposures.
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Gutor SS, Richmond BW, Du RH, Wu P, Lee JW, Ware LB, Shaver CM, Novitskiy SV, Johnson JE, Newman JH, Rennard SI, Miller RF, Blackwell TS, Polosukhin VV. Characterization of Immunopathology and Small Airway Remodeling in Constrictive Bronchiolitis. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2022; 206:260-270. [PMID: 35550018 PMCID: PMC9890264 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.202109-2133oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Constrictive bronchiolitis (ConB) is a relatively rare and understudied form of lung disease whose underlying immunopathology remains incompletely defined. Objectives: Our objectives were to quantify specific pathological features that differentiate ConB from other diseases that affect the small airways and to investigate the underlying immune and inflammatory phenotype present in ConB. Methods: We performed a comparative histomorphometric analysis of small airways in lung biopsy samples collected from 50 soldiers with postdeployment ConB, 8 patients with sporadic ConB, 55 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and 25 nondiseased control subjects. We measured immune and inflammatory gene expression in lung tissue using the NanoString nCounter Immunology Panel from six control subjects, six soldiers with ConB, and six patients with sporadic ConB. Measurements and Main Results: Compared with control subjects, we found shared pathological changes in small airways from soldiers with postdeployment ConB and patients with sporadic ConB, including increased thickness of the smooth muscle layer, increased collagen deposition in the subepithelium, and lymphocyte infiltration. Using principal-component analysis, we showed that ConB pathology was clearly separable both from control lungs and from small airway disease associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. NanoString gene expression analysis from lung tissue revealed T-cell activation in both groups of patients with ConB with upregulation of proinflammatory pathways, including cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions, NF-κB (nuclear factor-κB) signaling, TLR (Toll-like receptor) signaling, T-cell receptor signaling, and antigen processing and presentation. Conclusions: These findings indicate shared immunopathology among different forms of ConB and suggest that an ongoing T-helper cell type 1-type adaptive immune response underlies airway wall remodeling in ConB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey S. Gutor
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
| | - Bradley W. Richmond
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Rui-Hong Du
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
| | - Pingsheng Wu
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Jae Woo Lee
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; and
| | - Lorraine B. Ware
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Ciara M. Shaver
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
| | - Sergey V. Novitskiy
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
| | - Joyce E. Johnson
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - John H. Newman
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
| | - Stephen I. Rennard
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep and Allergy, Department of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Robert F. Miller
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
| | - Timothy S. Blackwell
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Vasiliy V. Polosukhin
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
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Davis CW, Rabin AS, Jani N, Osterholzer JJ, Krefft S, Hines SE, Arjomandi M, Robertson MW, Sotolongo AM, Falvo MJ. Postdeployment Respiratory Health: The Roles of the Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry and the Post-Deployment Cardiopulmonary Evaluation Network. Fed Pract 2022; 39:337-343. [PMID: 36425809 PMCID: PMC9652027 DOI: 10.12788/fp.0307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Background Following deployment to the Southwest Asia theater of operations and Afghanistan, many service members and veterans report respiratory symptoms and concerns about their military and environmental exposures. The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) established the national Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry (AHOBPR) in 2014 to help better understand long-term health conditions that may be related to these exposures. Observations The AHOBPR provides an online questionnaire and optional health evaluation performed by a primary care or environmental health clinician. The clinical evaluation provides an opportunity for the service member or veteran to talk with a health care professional about their symptoms, exposures, and potential treatment. Data derived from questionnaire responses and health evaluations facilitate medical surveillance and research. The VA also established a network of specialists, referred to as the Post-Deployment Cardiopulmonary Evaluation Network (PDCEN). The PDCEN identifies veterans within the AHOBPR who self-report certain conditions or have unexplained dyspnea and conducts comprehensive diagnostic evaluations. Primary objectives of PDCEN evaluations are to define respiratory and related conditions that are present, determine whether conditions are related to deployment, and work with the veteran's clinician to identify treatments and/or follow-up care to improve their health. We utilize a case example to illustrate the role of the primary care practitioner in connecting veterans to PDCEN clinical evaluations. Conclusions AHOBPR clinical evaluations represent an initial step to better understand postdeployment health conditions. The PDCEN clinical evaluation extends the AHOBPR evaluation by providing specialty care for certain veterans requiring more comprehensive evaluation while systematically collecting and analyzing clinical data to advance the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline W Davis
- Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Health Care System, LTC Charles S. Kettles Veterans Affaris Medical Center, Michigan
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Alexander S Rabin
- Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Health Care System, LTC Charles S. Kettles Veterans Affaris Medical Center, Michigan
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Nisha Jani
- Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits Center of Excellence, War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, Veterans Affairs New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange
| | - John J Osterholzer
- Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Health Care System, LTC Charles S. Kettles Veterans Affaris Medical Center, Michigan
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Silpa Krefft
- Veterans Affairs Eastern Colorado Health Care System, Aurora
- National Jewish Health, Division of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Denver, Colorado
- University of Colorado, School of Medicine, Aurora
| | - Stella E Hines
- Veterans Affairs Maryland Health Care System, Baltimore Veterans Affairs Medical Center
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore
| | - Mehrdad Arjomandi
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, California
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Allergy and Immunology, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine; Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Michelle W Robertson
- Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits Center of Excellence, War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, Veterans Affairs New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange
| | - Anays M Sotolongo
- Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits Center of Excellence, War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, Veterans Affairs New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark
| | - Michael J Falvo
- Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits Center of Excellence, War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, Veterans Affairs New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark
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Hill CJ, Meyer CD, McLean JE, Anderson DC, Hao Y, Lin FC, Kimple AJ, Capra GG. Burn Pit Exposure Is Associated With Increased Sinonasal Disease. J Occup Environ Med 2022; 64:629-634. [PMID: 35673272 PMCID: PMC9357047 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine whether self-reported burn pit exposure is associated with increased subjective and objective sinus disease. DESIGN A cross-sectional study was performed evaluating consecutive adult patients presenting to a US Military rhinology clinic. Demographics, medical histories, sinonasal quality-of-life scores, and nasal endoscopy examinations were obtained. Participants were divided into three cohorts based on self-reported exposure histories and outcomes compared. RESULTS One hundred eighty-six patients met the inclusion criteria, the majority of whom were male. Patients with burn pit exposure had worse Sinonasal Outcome Test-22 scores (49.9) compared with those deployed without burn pit exposure (31.8) or never deployed (31.5). Endoscopic findings demonstrated worse disease within those exposed (Lund-Kennedy score, 3.3) compared with the other cohorts (1.8 and 1.7, respectively). CONCLUSIONS These novel findings suggest that deployment-related burn pit exposure is associated with increased subjective and objective sinus disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J. Hill
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, VA
| | - Charles D. Meyer
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, VA
| | - James E. McLean
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, VA
| | - Danielle C. Anderson
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, VA
| | - Yajing Hao
- Department of Biostatistics, Gillings School of Global Public Health
| | - Feng-Chang Lin
- Department of Biostatistics, Gillings School of Global Public Health
| | - Adam J. Kimple
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill
| | - Gregory G. Capra
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, VA
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Kim YH, Warren SH, Kooter I, Williams WC, George IJ, Vance SA, Hays MD, Higuchi MA, Gavett SH, DeMarini DM, Jaspers I, Gilmour MI. Chemistry, lung toxicity and mutagenicity of burn pit smoke-related particulate matter. Part Fibre Toxicol 2021; 18:45. [PMID: 34915899 PMCID: PMC8675519 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-021-00435-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Open burning of anthropogenic sources can release hazardous emissions and has been associated with increased prevalence of cardiopulmonary health outcomes. Exposure to smoke emitted from burn pits in military bases has been linked with respiratory illness among military and civilian personnel returning from war zones. Although the composition of the materials being burned is well studied, the resulting chemistry and potential toxicity of the emissions are not. METHODS Smoke emission condensates from either flaming or smoldering combustion of five different types of burn pit-related waste: cardboard; plywood; plastic; mixture; and mixture/diesel, were obtained from a laboratory-scale furnace coupled to a multistage cryotrap system. The primary emissions and smoke condensates were analyzed for a standardized suite of chemical species, and the condensates were studied for pulmonary toxicity in female CD-1 mice and mutagenic activity in Salmonella (Ames) mutagenicity assay using the frameshift strain TA98 and the base-substitution strain TA100 with and without metabolic activation (S9 from rat liver). RESULTS Most of the particles in the smoke emitted from flaming and smoldering combustion were less than 2.5 µm in diameter. Burning of plastic containing wastes (plastic, mixture, or mixture/diesel) emitted larger amounts of particulate matter (PM) compared to other types of waste. On an equal mass basis, the smoke PM from flaming combustion of plastic containing wastes caused more inflammation and lung injury and was more mutagenic than other samples, and the biological responses were associated with elevated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon levels. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that adverse health effects of burn pit smoke exposure vary depending on waste type and combustion temperature; however, burning plastic at high temperature was the most significant contributor to the toxicity outcomes. These findings will provide a better understanding of the complex chemical and combustion temperature factors that determine toxicity of burn pit smoke and its potential health risks at military bases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Ho Kim
- Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma and Lung Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Public Health and Integrated Toxicology Division, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711, USA
| | - Sarah H Warren
- Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711, USA
| | - Ingeborg Kooter
- Department of Circular Economy and the Environment, The Netherlands Organisation of Applied Sciences, TNO, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Wanda C Williams
- Public Health and Integrated Toxicology Division, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711, USA
| | - Ingrid J George
- Air Methods and Characterization Division, Center for Environmental Measurements and Modeling, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711, USA
| | - Samuel A Vance
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711, USA
| | - Michael D Hays
- Air Methods and Characterization Division, Center for Environmental Measurements and Modeling, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711, USA
| | - Mark A Higuchi
- Public Health and Integrated Toxicology Division, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711, USA
| | - Stephen H Gavett
- Public Health and Integrated Toxicology Division, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711, USA
| | - David M DeMarini
- Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711, USA
| | - Ilona Jaspers
- Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma and Lung Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, and Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - M Ian Gilmour
- Public Health and Integrated Toxicology Division, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711, USA.
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16
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Gutor SS, Richmond BW, Du RH, Wu P, Sandler KL, MacKinnon G, Brittain EL, Lee JW, Ware LB, Loyd JE, Johnson JE, Miller RF, Newman JH, Rennard SI, Blackwell TS, Polosukhin VV. Postdeployment Respiratory Syndrome in Soldiers With Chronic Exertional Dyspnea. Am J Surg Pathol 2021; 45:1587-1596. [PMID: 34081035 PMCID: PMC8585675 DOI: 10.1097/pas.0000000000001757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
After deployment to Southwest Asia, some soldiers develop persistent respiratory symptoms, including exercise intolerance and exertional dyspnea. We identified 50 soldiers with a history of deployment to Southwest Asia who presented with unexplained dyspnea and underwent an unrevealing clinical evaluation followed by surgical lung biopsy. Lung tissue specimens from 17 age-matched, nonsmoking subjects were used as controls. Quantitative histomorphometry was performed for evaluation of inflammation and pathologic remodeling of small airways, pulmonary vasculature, alveolar tissue and visceral pleura. Compared with control subjects, lung biopsies from affected soldiers revealed a variety of pathologic changes involving their distal lungs, particularly related to bronchovascular bundles. Bronchioles from soldiers had increased thickness of the lamina propria, smooth muscle hypertrophy, and increased collagen content. In adjacent arteries, smooth muscle hypertrophy and adventitial thickening resulted in increased wall-to-lumen ratio in affected soldiers. Infiltration of CD4 and CD8 T lymphocytes was noted within airway walls, along with increased formation of lymphoid follicles. In alveolar parenchyma, collagen and elastin content were increased and capillary density was reduced in interalveolar septa from soldiers compared to control subjects. In addition, pleural involvement with inflammation and/or fibrosis was present in the majority (92%) of soldiers. Clinical follow-up of 29 soldiers (ranging from 1 to 15 y) showed persistence of exertional dyspnea in all individuals and a decline in total lung capacity. Susceptible soldiers develop a postdeployment respiratory syndrome that includes exertional dyspnea and complex pathologic changes affecting small airways, pulmonary vasculature, alveolar tissue, and visceral pleura.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey S. Gutor
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine
| | - Bradley W. Richmond
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center
| | - Rui-Hong Du
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine
| | - Pingsheng Wu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
| | | | - Grant MacKinnon
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Evan L. Brittain
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Jae Woo Lee
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Lorraine B. Ware
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine
- Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center
| | - James E. Loyd
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine
| | - Joyce E. Johnson
- Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center
| | - Robert F. Miller
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine
| | - John H. Newman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine
| | - Stephen I. Rennard
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep and Allergy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Timothy S. Blackwell
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center
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17
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Bytnar JA, Lin J, Eaglehouse YL, Enewold L, Shriver CD, Zhu K. Brain cancer incidence: a comparison of active-duty military and general populations. Eur J Cancer Prev 2021; 30:328-333. [PMID: 32898014 DOI: 10.1097/cej.0000000000000625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the USA, brain cancer disproportionately affects young adults. The US military has a younger age structure than the general population and may have differential exposures related to brain cancer. This study aimed to compare the incidence rates of brain cancer in the active-duty military and general populations to provide clues for future etiologic research. The rates between military service branches were also compared. METHODS The data for this study were from the Department of Defense's Automated Central Tumor Registry (ACTUR) and the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results 9 (SEER-9) registries. Age- and sex-adjusted incidence rates of malignant neuroepithelial brain cancer among adults 20-54 years of age from 1990-2013 were calculated and compared between the two populations, given as incidence rate ratios (IRRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS The age and sex-adjusted incidence rate for malignant neuroepithelial brain cancer was significantly lower in the active-duty population than in the US general population (IRR = 0.62, 95% CI, 0.56-0.68). The reduced incidence rate in the active-duty population was observed in men, all races, individuals 20-44 of age, and for all histological subtypes and time periods assessed. There were no significant differences in rates between the military service branches. CONCLUSION The incidence rates of neuroepithelial brain cancer were lower in the active-duty military population than the US general population. This study highlights the need for more research to enhance our understanding of variations in brain cancer incidence between these two populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A Bytnar
- John P. Murtha Cancer Center Research Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Rockledge Drive
| | - Jie Lin
- John P. Murtha Cancer Center Research Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Rockledge Drive
- Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
| | - Yvonne L Eaglehouse
- John P. Murtha Cancer Center Research Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Rockledge Drive
- Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
| | - Lindsey Enewold
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Medical Center Drive
| | - Craig D Shriver
- John P. Murtha Cancer Center Research Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda
- Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
| | - Kangmin Zhu
- John P. Murtha Cancer Center Research Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Rockledge Drive
- Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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18
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Mammarappallil JG, Shofer S, Carraway MS, Tucker J, Womack S, Ainslie M, Charles HC. Utilization of 19F MRI for Identification of Iraq-Afghanistan War Lung Injury. Mil Med 2020; 185:50-56. [PMID: 32074359 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usz284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is mounting evidence of respiratory problems related to military service in the Middle East in the past two decades due to environmental exposures during deployment (eg, sand storms and burn pits). This pilot study tests the hypothesis that regional lung function in subjects with prior deployment in Iraq and/or Afghanistan with suspected War Lung Injury (WLI) would be worse than subjects with normal lung function. MATERIALS AND METHODS Five subjects meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria were recruited for this pilot study. All subjects underwent spirometry, high-resolution chest computed tomography imaging, and 19F MRI. RESULTS While the WLI subjects had normal pulmonary function tests and normal high-resolution chest computed tomography evaluations, their regional lung function from 19F MRI was abnormal with compartments with poor function showing slower filling time constants for ventilation. The scans of suspected WLI subjects show higher fractional lung volume with slow filling compartments similar to patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in contrast to normal subjects. CONCLUSIONS This is consistent with our premise that WLI results in abnormal lung function and reflects small airways dysfunction and suggests that we may be able to provide a more sensitive tool for evaluation of WLI suspected cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph G Mammarappallil
- Department of Radiology, Duke University School of Medicine, 2301 Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27705
| | - Scott Shofer
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, 2301 Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27705
| | - Martha S Carraway
- Pulmonary Medicine, Durham Veterans Administration Medical Center, 508 Fulton St., Durham, NC 27705
| | - Jesse Tucker
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, 2301 Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27705
| | - Samantha Womack
- Department of Radiology, Duke University School of Medicine, 2301 Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27705.,Duke Image Analysis Laboratory, Duke University School of Medicine, 2424 Erwin Road, Hock Plaza, Suite 301, Durham, NC 27705
| | - Maureen Ainslie
- Duke Image Analysis Laboratory, Duke University School of Medicine, 2424 Erwin Road, Hock Plaza, Suite 301, Durham, NC 27705
| | - H Cecil Charles
- Department of Radiology, Duke University School of Medicine, 2301 Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27705.,Duke Image Analysis Laboratory, Duke University School of Medicine, 2424 Erwin Road, Hock Plaza, Suite 301, Durham, NC 27705
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19
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Gordetsky J, Kim C, Miller RF, Mehrad M. Non-necrotizing granulomatous pneumonitis and chronic pleuritis in soldiers deployed to Southwest Asia. Histopathology 2020; 77:453-459. [PMID: 32379353 DOI: 10.1111/his.14135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Reports of respiratory illnesses among soldiers returning from Southwest Asia have been described. During deployment to Southwest Asia, soldiers are exposed to various respiratory hazards, including dust storms, smoke from burn pits and industrial air pollutants. A few studies have reported increased rates of constrictive bronchiolitis and asthma in these patients. We sought to expand upon the pathological findings in this cohort. METHODS AND RESULTS Lung biopsies from veterans of Southwest Asia were identified and re-reviewed. All patients had undergone pulmonary function tests and chest high-resolution CT imaging with no significant findings. Overall, 59 patients with a history of inhalational exposure to at least one of the following were identified: smoke from burn pit, dust storm and sulphur plant fire. Samples included video-assisted thoracoscopic lung biopsies (57 of 59, 96.6%) and cryobiopsies (two of 59, 3.4%). Patients were predominantly male (54 of 59, 91.5%) with an age range of 24-55 years (mean and median = 35). Non-necrotising, poorly formed granulomas were identified in 22 cases (22 of 59, 37.2%). The granulomas were mainly bronchiolocentric and were associated with chronic lymphoplasmacytic bronchiolitis, similar to hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP). Pleural reaction in the form of focal chronic lymphocytic pleuritis and/or focal pleural adhesions were seen in 43 of 57 (75.4%) biopsies. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first study to report pleural reaction as well as features of HP in this population, suggesting that pleural reaction and HP may be part of the spectrum of Southwest Asia deployment-related lung diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Gordetsky
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Christine Kim
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Robert F Miller
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Mitra Mehrad
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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20
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A Pilot Study of Airborne Hazards and Other Toxic Exposures in Iraq War Veterans. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17093299. [PMID: 32397395 PMCID: PMC7246947 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17093299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
During their deployment to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF), many Veterans were exposed to a wide array of toxic substances and psychologic stressors, most notably airborne/environmental pollutants from open burn pits. Service members do not deploy whilst unhealthy, but often they return with a multitude of acute and chronic symptoms, some of which only begin to manifest years after their deployment. Our findings, while preliminary in nature, suggest that Iraq War Veterans who participated in our survey reported a decrease in overall physical fitness and increased respiratory clinical symptoms compared with pre-deployment periods. The objective of this report is to provide information that will benefit how combat Veterans are cared for post-deployment. Strategies for a wider and more comprehensive assessment and medical screening process post-deployment are recommended.
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21
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Khan A, Thatcher TH, Woeller CF, Sime PJ, Phipps RP, Hopke PK, Utell MJ, Krahl PL, Mallon TM, Thakar J. Machine Learning Approach for Predicting Past Environmental Exposures From Molecular Profiling of Post-Exposure Human Serum Samples. J Occup Environ Med 2019; 61 Suppl 12:S55-S64. [PMID: 31800451 PMCID: PMC6897314 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop an approach for a retrospective analysis of post-exposure serum samples using diverse molecular profiles. METHODS The 236 molecular profiles from 800 de-identified human serum samples from the Department of Defense Serum Repository were classified as smokers or non-smokers based on direct measurement of serum cotinine levels. A machine-learning pipeline was used to classify smokers and non-smokers from their molecular profiles. RESULTS The refined supervised support vector machines with recursive feature elimination predicted smokers and non-smokers with 78% accuracy on the independent held-out set. Several of the identified classifiers of smoking status have previously been reported and four additional miRNAs were validated with experimental tobacco smoke exposure in mice, supporting the computational approach. CONCLUSIONS We developed and validated a pipeline that shows retrospective analysis of post-exposure serum samples can identify environmental exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atif Khan
- Departments of Microbiology and Immunology and Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Thomas H. Thatcher
- Department of Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Collynn F. Woeller
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Patricia J. Sime
- Departments of Medicine, Environmental Medicine, and Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Richard P. Phipps
- Departments of Medicine, Environmental Medicine, and Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Philip K. Hopke
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642
- Center for Air Resources Engineering and Science, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699
| | - Mark J. Utell
- Departments of Medicine and Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Pamela L. Krahl
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814
| | - Timothy M. Mallon
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814
| | - Juilee Thakar
- Departments of Microbiology and Immunology and Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642
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22
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Gratz D, Hund TJ, Falvo MJ, Wold LE. Reverse Translation: Using Computational Modeling to Enhance Translational Research. Circ Res 2019; 122:1496-1498. [PMID: 29798899 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.118.313003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Gratz
- From the Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute (D.G., T.J.H., L.E.W.).,The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus; Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering (D.G., T.J.H.)
| | - Thomas J Hund
- From the Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute (D.G., T.J.H., L.E.W.).,Department of Internal Medicine (T.J.H.).,The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus; Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering (D.G., T.J.H.)
| | - Michael J Falvo
- The Ohio State University, Columbus; War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange (M.J.F.).,Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (M.J.F.)
| | - Loren E Wold
- From the Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute (D.G., T.J.H., L.E.W.) .,College of Nursing (L.E.W.).,Department of Physiology and Cell Biology (L.E.W.)
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23
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Rolland-Harris E, Simkus K, Weeks M. Burden of Cancer Mortality in the Canadian Armed Forces, 1976-2012: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2019; 28:1364-1369. [PMID: 31160349 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-19-0215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Military personnel may have potential exposures to carcinogens during their military careers. However, the generalizability of causal evidence between occupational exposures and cancer outcomes in military personnel is limited. This study aims to describe the epidemiology cause-specific cancer mortality in still serving and released Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel recruited between 1976 and 2012. METHODS Data came from the Canadian Forces Cancer and Mortality Study II (CF CAMS II), a record-linkage study of approximately 228,685 CAF Regular Force personnel and Reservists. Sex-stratified standardized mortality ratios (SMR) were calculated for each neoplasm subcategory, with the Canadian general population (CGP) as the reference. RESULTS Approximately 1,450 deaths were attributable to neoplasms. Cancer mortality was lower in both men and women with military service (SMR = 0.77 and 0.78, respectively) versus CGP. Females had a significantly lower risk of breast cancer. Males in the cohort had a significantly lower risk of lip, oral cavity and pharynx, digestive organs, respiratory and intrathoracic organs, bone and articular cartilage, and mesothelial and soft-tissue cancers. However, males also had a significantly increased risk for neoplasms of the central nervous system and lymphoid cells, as well as for certain specific cancer diagnoses. CONCLUSIONS Current and former CAF personnel were at comparable, or lower risk than, the CGP for cancer-related deaths. However, there was an increased risk for certain neoplasm subcategories and specific cancers. IMPACT These findings contribute to the limited body of evidence investigating the link between military service and cancer mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Rolland-Harris
- Directorate of Force Health Protection, Department of National Defence, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Kristen Simkus
- Directorate of Force Health Protection, Department of National Defence, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Research Directorate, Veterans Affairs Canada, Charlottetown, Canada
| | - Murray Weeks
- Directorate of Force Health Protection, Department of National Defence, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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24
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Al-Saiedy M, Gunasekara L, Green F, Pratt R, Chiu A, Yang A, Dennis J, Pieron C, Bjornson C, Winston B, Amrein M. Surfactant Dysfunction in ARDS and Bronchiolitis is Repaired with Cyclodextrins. Mil Med 2019; 183:207-215. [PMID: 29635617 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usx204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is caused by many factors including inhalation of toxicants, acute barotrauma, acid aspiration, and burns. Surfactant function is impaired in ARDS and acute airway injury resulting in high surface tension with alveolar and small airway collapse, edema, hypoxemia, and death. In this study, we explore the mechanisms whereby surfactant becomes dysfunctional in ARDS and bronchiolitis and its repair with a cyclodextrin drug that sequesters cholesterol. Methods We used in vitro model systems, a mouse model of ARDS, and samples from patients with acute bronchiolitis. Surface tension was measured by captive bubble surfactometry. Results Patient samples showed severe surfactant inhibition even in the absence of elevated cholesterol levels. Surfactant was also impaired in ARDS mice where the cholesterol to phospholipid ratio (W/W%) was increased. Methyl-β-cyclodextrin (MβCD) restored surfactant function to normal in both human and animal samples. Model studies showed that the inhibition of surfactant was due to both elevated cholesterol and an interaction between cholesterol and oxidized phospholipids. MβCD was also shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. Conclusions Inhaled cyclodextrins have potential for the treatment of ARDS. They could be delivered in a portable device carried in combat and used following exposure to toxic gases and fumes or shock secondary to hemorrhage and burns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Al-Saiedy
- Snyder Institute of Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 4Z6
| | - Lasantha Gunasekara
- Snyder Institute of Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 4Z6
| | - Francis Green
- Snyder Institute of Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 4Z6.,SolAeroMed Inc., Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2L 2K8
| | - Ryan Pratt
- Snyder Institute of Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 4Z6
| | - Andrea Chiu
- Snyder Institute of Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 4Z6.,SolAeroMed Inc., Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2L 2K8
| | - Ailian Yang
- Snyder Institute of Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 4Z6
| | - John Dennis
- SolAeroMed Inc., Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2L 2K8
| | - Cora Pieron
- SolAeroMed Inc., Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2L 2K8
| | - Candice Bjornson
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Cystic Fibrosis Clinic, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T3B 6A8
| | - Brent Winston
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 4Z6
| | - Matthias Amrein
- Snyder Institute of Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 4Z6
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25
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Butzko RP, Sotolongo AM, Helmer DA, Klein-Adams JC, Osinubi OY, Berman AR, Ortiz-Pacheco R, Falvo MJ. Forced oscillation technique in veterans with preserved spirometry and chronic respiratory symptoms. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2019; 260:8-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2018.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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26
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Karl JP, Hatch AM, Arcidiacono SM, Pearce SC, Pantoja-Feliciano IG, Doherty LA, Soares JW. Effects of Psychological, Environmental and Physical Stressors on the Gut Microbiota. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:2013. [PMID: 30258412 PMCID: PMC6143810 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.02013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 260] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress, a ubiquitous part of daily human life, has varied biological effects which are increasingly recognized as including modulation of commensal microorganisms residing in the gastrointestinal tract, the gut microbiota. In turn, the gut microbiota influences the host stress response and associated sequelae, thereby implicating the gut microbiota as an important mediator of host health. This narrative review aims to summarize evidence concerning the impact of psychological, environmental, and physical stressors on gut microbiota composition and function. The stressors reviewed include psychological stress, circadian disruption, sleep deprivation, environmental extremes (high altitude, heat, and cold), environmental pathogens, toxicants, pollutants, and noise, physical activity, and diet (nutrient composition and food restriction). Stressors were selected for their direct relevance to military personnel, a population that is commonly exposed to these stressors, often at extremes, and in combination. However, the selected stressors are also common, alone or in combination, in some civilian populations. Evidence from preclinical studies collectively indicates that the reviewed stressors alter the composition, function and metabolic activity of the gut microbiota, but that effects vary across stressors, and can include effects that may be beneficial or detrimental to host health. Translation of these findings to humans is largely lacking at present. This gap precludes concluding with certainty that transient or cumulative exposures to psychological, environmental, and physical stressors have any consistent, meaningful impact on the human gut microbiota. However, provocative preclinical evidence highlights a need for translational research aiming to elucidate the impact of stressors on the human gut microbiota, and how the gut microbiota can be manipulated, for example by using nutrition, to mitigate adverse stress responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Philip Karl
- Military Nutrition Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA, United States
| | - Adrienne M. Hatch
- Military Nutrition Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA, United States
| | - Steven M. Arcidiacono
- Soldier Performance Optimization, Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center, Natick, MA, United States
| | - Sarah C. Pearce
- Combat Feeding Directorate, Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center, Natick, MA, United States
| | - Ida G. Pantoja-Feliciano
- Soldier Performance Optimization, Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center, Natick, MA, United States
| | - Laurel A. Doherty
- Soldier Performance Optimization, Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center, Natick, MA, United States
| | - Jason W. Soares
- Soldier Performance Optimization, Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center, Natick, MA, United States
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Schram B, Orr R, Rigby T, Pope R. An Analysis of Reported Dangerous Incidents, Exposures, and Near Misses amongst Army Soldiers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:E1605. [PMID: 30060595 PMCID: PMC6121289 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15081605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2018] [Revised: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Occupational health and safety incidents occurring in the military context are of great concern to personnel and commanders. Incidents such as "dangerous incidents", "exposures", and "near misses" (as distinct from injuries, illnesses, and fatalities) indicate serious health and safety risks faced by military personnel, even if they do not cause immediate harm. These risks may give rise to harm in the future, if not adequately addressed, and in some cases the incidents may cause latent harm. The purpose of this study was to ascertain the rates and patterns of incidents of these types reported by full time (ARA) and part time (ARES) Australian Army personnel. A retrospective cohort study was performed using self-reported incident data from the Workplace Health, Safety, Compensation and Reporting (WHSCAR) database over a two-year period. Data were analysed descriptively. Of 3791 such incidents, 3636 (96 percent) occurred in ARA and 155 (4 percent) in ARES personnel, somewhat consistent with the proportions of total army person-years served in each (ARA 93 percent; ARES 7 percent). In ARA, 84 percent of these incident types were exposures, 14 percent near misses, and 2 percent dangerous incidents. In ARES, 55 percent of incidents were exposures, 38 percent near misses, and 7 percent dangerous incidents. Soldiers at the rank of 'private' experienced the highest rates of these incident types, in both ARA and ARES. Driving gave rise to more near misses than any other activity, in both populations. Exposures to chemicals and sounds were more common in the ARA than ARES. The ARES reported higher proportions of vehicle near misses and multiple mechanism dangerous incidents than the ARA. The findings of this study can usefully inform development of risk mitigation strategies for dangerous incidents, exposures, and near misses in army personnel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Schram
- Tactical Research Unit, Bond University, Robina, QLD 4226, Australia.
| | - Robin Orr
- Tactical Research Unit, Bond University, Robina, QLD 4226, Australia.
| | - Timothy Rigby
- Faculty of Health Science and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD 4226, Australia.
| | - Rodney Pope
- Tactical Research Unit, Bond University, Robina, QLD 4226, Australia.
- School of Community Health, Charles Sturt University, Albury-Wodonga, NSW 2640, Australia.
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Barth SK, Dursa EK, Bossarte R, Schneiderman A. Lifetime Prevalence of Respiratory Diseases and Exposures Among Veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom Veterans: Results From the National Health Study for a New Generation of U.S. Veterans. J Occup Environ Med 2018; 58:1175-1180. [PMID: 27930474 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000000885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of respiratory exposures and the association between respiratory exposures and respiratory disease among veterans deployed to Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) compared with nondeployed veterans of this era. METHODS Data come from a national health survey of 20,563 deployed and nondeployed OEF/OIF era veterans. Prevalence estimates and adjusted odds ratios were calculated. Results were weighted to represent the population. RESULTS Prevalence of at least one respiratory exposure was high among both deployed and nondeployed groups (95% and 70%, respectively). In both groups, those with any respiratory exposure were at an increased risk for reporting a respiratory disease. CONCLUSION Respiratory exposures are highly prevalent and are associated with increased odds of respiratory diseases among the OEF/OIF era population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon K Barth
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Patient Care Services, Post-Deployment Health Epidemiology Program, Washington, DC (Drs Barth, Dursa, Bossarte, Schneiderman); and Injury Control Research Center and Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia (Dr Bossarte)
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29
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Abstract
This article applies a hazard-based approach to the identification of physical, mental, and psychosocial health needs of post-9/11 veterans. The weaponry, survival, and population of servicemen and women by the military have evolved over time, particularly during the post-9/11 era. It is evident that military hazards and potential exposures vary depending on not only the deployment era but also the specific location and role. Many individual factors may affect the development of health problems. Recent evidence-based literature about post-9/11 veterans' long-term complex health issues is summarized, so occupational health nurses can advocate for the provision of veteran-sensitive care.
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30
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MicroRNAs as Novel Biomarkers of Deployment Status and Exposure to Polychlorinated Dibenzo-p-Dioxins/Dibenzofurans. J Occup Environ Med 2018; 58:S89-96. [PMID: 27501109 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000000769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine if service members deployed to locations with open air burn pits have different serum microRNA (miRNA) profiles after deployment compared with length-of-service matched, non-deployed individuals. We also tested for correlations between miRNA and serum levels of Polychlorinated Dibenzo-p-Dioxins/Dibenzofurans (PCDD/PCDFs). METHODS MiRNAs were isolated and quantified by PCR array. Groups were analyzed for differences in miRNA expression. Correlations between serum miRNA and PCDD/PCDFs were assessed with a linear regression model. RESULTS Several miRNAs were differentially expressed after deployment and a partially overlapping set of miRNAs were identified between deployed and non-deployed individuals. Significant correlations between miRNAs and PCDD/PCDFs were identified. CONCLUSIONS Serum miRNA levels show a link between deployment to locations with open burn pits and environmental exposures that can take place during deployment.
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Detection of Serum microRNAs From Department of Defense Serum Repository: Correlation With Cotinine, Cytokine, and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Levels. J Occup Environ Med 2018; 58:S62-71. [PMID: 27501106 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000000742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate whether serum samples from the Department of Defense Serum Repository (DoDSR) are of sufficient quality to detect microRNAs (miRNAs), cytokines, immunoglobulin E (IgE), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). METHODS MiRNAs were isolated and quantified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array. Cytokines and chemokines related to inflammation were measured using multiplex immunoassays. Cotinine and IgE were detected by enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) and PAHs were detected by Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectroscopy. RESULTS We detected miRNAs, cytokines, IgE, and PAHs with high sensitivity. Eleven of 30 samples tested positive for cotinine suggesting tobacco exposure. Significant associations between serum cotinine, cytokine, IgE, PAHs, and miRNA were discovered. CONCLUSION We successfully quantified over 200 potential biomarkers of occupational exposure from DoDSR samples. The stored serum samples were not affected by hemolysis and represent a powerful tool for biomarker discovery and analysis in retrospective studies.
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Burn Pit Emissions Exposure and Respiratory and Cardiovascular Conditions Among Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry Participants. J Occup Environ Med 2018; 58:e249-55. [PMID: 27218278 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000000776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine how burn pit emissions exposure is associated with the incidence of respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. METHODS We examined the associations between assumed geographic and self-reported burn pit emissions exposure and respiratory and cardiovascular outcomes in participants of the Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry. RESULTS We found significant dose-response associations for higher risk of self-reported emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with increased days of deployment within 2 miles of selected burn pits (P-trend = 0.01) and self-reported burn pit smoke exposure (P-trend = 0.0005). CONCLUSIONS We found associations between burn pit emissions exposure and higher incidence of post-deployment self-reported respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, but these findings should be interpreted with caution because the surrogate measurements of burn pit emissions exposure in this analysis may not reflect individual exposure levels.
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Harrington AD, Schmidt MP, Szema AM, Galdanes K, Tsirka SE, Gordon T, Schoonen MAA. The Role of Iraqi Dust in Inducing Lung Injury in United States Soldiers-An Interdisciplinary Study. GEOHEALTH 2017; 1:237-246. [PMID: 29085918 PMCID: PMC5659319 DOI: 10.1002/2017gh000071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Revised: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
United States soldiers are returning from the Greater Middle East with respiratory illnesses ranging from new onset asthma to constrictive bronchiolitis. The etiology of the diseases is unknown. A study was conducted to determine the possible role of local mineral dust in the development of abnormal respiratory illnesses in soldiers during and after deployment in Iraq. A dust sample obtained in proximity to a burn pit in Camp Victory, Iraq, (CVD) was characterized both chemically and mineralogically. For comparison, a dust sample from Fort Irwin, California, (FID) was also collected. The ability of the dust samples to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) was quantified, as well as their ability to generate an inflammatory stress response (ISR) in human lung epithelial cells. Both samples are comprised of common silicate and carbonate minerals and contain heavy metals with concentration ranges expected for mineral dust. The ISR generated by each sample was within the range of inert material with the minimal stress generated associated with the carbonate phases. The findings based on this one sample suggest that the origin of the disease is not driven by the particles ability to generate ROS. However it is likely that particle overload, and associated complications, or endotoxin contribute extensively to pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea D. Harrington
- Astromaterials Acquisition and Curation OfficeNASA Johnson Space CenterHoustonTexasUSA
- Department of GeosciencesStony Brook UniversityStony BrookNew YorkUSA
- Institute of Environmental MedicineNew York University School of MedicineTuxedoNew YorkUSA
| | | | - Anthony M. Szema
- Veterans Affairs Medical CenterNorthportNew YorkUSA
- Departments of Medicine and SurgeryStony Brook University School of MedicineStony BrookNew YorkUSA
| | - Karen Galdanes
- Institute of Environmental MedicineNew York University School of MedicineTuxedoNew YorkUSA
| | - Stella E. Tsirka
- Pharmacological SciencesStony Brook UniversityStony BrookNew YorkUSA
| | - Terry Gordon
- Institute of Environmental MedicineNew York University School of MedicineTuxedoNew YorkUSA
| | - Martin A. A. Schoonen
- Department of GeosciencesStony Brook UniversityStony BrookNew YorkUSA
- Environmental Sciences DepartmentBrookhaven National LaboratoryUptonNew YorkUSA
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Saers J, Ekerljung L, Forsberg B, Janson C. Respiratory symptoms among Swedish soldiers after military service abroad: association with time spent in a desert environment. Eur Clin Respir J 2017. [PMID: 28649309 PMCID: PMC5475336 DOI: 10.1080/20018525.2017.1327761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The aim of this paper was to study whether Swedish soldiers who have served abroad had a higher prevalence of respiratory symptoms than the general population and, if this was the case, also to study whether this was associated with time spent in a desert environment. Methods:The prevalence of respiratory symptoms among 1,080 veterans from Kosovo and Afghanistan was compared with that in almost 27,000 subjects from a general population sample, using propensity score matching and logistic regression. Results:The prevalence of wheeze (16.3 vs. 12.3%), wheeze without a cold (11.1 vs. 8.0%), nocturnal coughing (26.6 vs. 20.1%) and chronic bronchitis (12.3 vs. 6.8%) was significantly higher among soldiers than controls (p < 0.05). A dose-response-related association was found between time spent in a desert environment and wheeze, wheeze with breathlessness and wheeze when not having a cold. Having been exposed to desert storms was related to nocturnal cough and chronic bronchitis. Conclusion:Swedish soldiers who had served abroad had a higher prevalence of wheeze and cough than a control group from the general population. The association between being exposed to a desert environment and respiratory symptoms indicates that further protective measures should be introduced for military personnel serving in a desert environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Saers
- Department of Medical Sciences: Respiratory, Allergy and Sleep Research, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Linda Ekerljung
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Bertil Forsberg
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Christer Janson
- Department of Medical Sciences: Respiratory, Allergy and Sleep Research, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Campagna M, Pilia I, Marcias G, Frattolillo A, Pili S, Bernabei M, d'Aloja E, Cocco P, Buonanno G. Ultrafine Particle Distribution and Chemical Composition Assessment during Military Operative Trainings. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14060579. [PMID: 28556812 PMCID: PMC5486265 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14060579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
(1) Background: The assessment of airborne particulate matter (PM) and ultrafine particles (UFPs) in battlefield scenarios is a topic of particular concern; (2) Methods: Size distribution, concentration, and chemical composition of UFPs during operative military training activities (target drone launches, ammunition blasting, and inert bomb impact) were investigated using an electric low-pressure impactor (ELPI+) and a scanning electron microscope (SEM), equipped with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS); (3) Results: The median of UFPs, measured for all sampling periods and at variable distance from sources, was between 1.02 × 103 and 3.75 × 103 particles/cm3 for drone launches, between 3.32 × 103 and 15.4 × 103 particles/cm3 for the ammunition blasting and from 7.9 × 103 to 1.3 × 104 particles/cm3 for inert launches. Maximum peak concentrations, during emitting sources starting, were 75.5 × 106 and 17.9 × 106 particles/cm3, respectively. Particles from the drone launches were predominantly composed of silicon (Si), iron (Fe) and calcium (Ca), and those from the blasting campaigns by magnesium (Mg), sulphur (S), aluminum (Al), iron (Fe), barium (Ba) and silicon (Si); (4) Conclusions: The investigated sources produced UFPs with median values lower than other anthropogenic sources, and with a similar chemical composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcello Campagna
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato, Italy.
| | - Ilaria Pilia
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato, Italy.
| | - Gabriele Marcias
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato, Italy.
| | - Andrea Frattolillo
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Architecture, University of Cagliari, via Marengo 2, 09123 Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Sergio Pili
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato, Italy.
| | - Manuele Bernabei
- Chemistry Department, Test Flight Centre, IAF, Pratica di Mare AFB, 00040 Pomezia, Italy.
| | - Ernesto d'Aloja
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato, Italy.
| | - Pierluigi Cocco
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09042, Monserrato, Italy.
| | - Giorgio Buonanno
- Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, I-03043, Cassino, Italy.
- International Laboratory for Air Quality and Health, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), 4001, Brisbane, Australia.
- Department of Engineering, University of Naples "Parthenope", 80133, Naples, Italy.
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Borander AK, Voie ØA, Longva K, Danielsen TE, Grahnstedt S, Sandvik L, Kongerud J, Sikkeland LIB. Military small arms fire in association with acute decrements in lung function. Occup Environ Med 2017; 74:639-644. [PMID: 28408655 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2016-104207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Revised: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE After introduction of unleaded ammunition, Norwegian Armed Forces received reports of acute respiratory symptoms in soldiers after exposure to fumes from firing the standard weapon, HK416. The aim of the present study was to examine lung function before and after exposure to fumes from HK416 in a double-blinded standardised study design using three different types of ammunition. METHODS Fifty-four healthy, non-smoking male volunteers (19-62 years) fired the weapons for 60 min with either leaded, unleaded or 'modified' unleaded ammunition. Gaseous and particulate emissions were monitored. Spirometry and exhaled nitric oxide (eNO) were performed within 14 days before (T0), shortly after (T1) and 24 hours after (T2) shooting. Methacholine provocation and diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide (DLCO) were carried out at T0 and T2. RESULTS The mean forced expiratory volume in 1 s on a group level was significantly reduced both at T1 and T2 compared with T0, with means and 95% CI of 226 mL (158 to 294 mL) and 285 mL (218 to 351 mL), respectively. The same significant pattern was seen for DLCO, forced vital capacity and eNO. The methacholine test indicated a slight increase in bronchial hyper-reactivity. However, there were no significant differences between types of ammunition used. CONCLUSION Exposure to fumes from military weapons might be a respiratory hazard for soldiers who do live-fire training regularly or are in a closed combat environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Katrine Borander
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål, Oslo, Norway.,Occupational Health Service, Sessvollmoen, Norwegian Armed Forces, Oslo, Norway
| | - Øyvind Albert Voie
- Division Protection and Societal Security, Norwegian Defence Research Establishment, Kjeller, Norway
| | - Kjetil Longva
- Division Protection and Societal Security, Norwegian Defence Research Establishment, Kjeller, Norway
| | - Tor Erik Danielsen
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål, Oslo, Norway
| | - Svein Grahnstedt
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål, Oslo, Norway
| | - Leiv Sandvik
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Johny Kongerud
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Respiratory Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Liv Ingunn Bjoner Sikkeland
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Respiratory Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
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McAndrew LM, Helmer DA, Phillips LA, Chandler HK, Ray K, Quigley KS. Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans report symptoms consistent with chronic multisymptom illness one year after deployment. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 53:59-70. [PMID: 27006173 DOI: 10.1682/jrrd.2014.10.0255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Revised: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Many Veterans returning from service in Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation Enduring Freedom (OIF/OEF) experience chronic pain. What is not known is whether for some OIF/OEF Veterans this pain is part of a larger condition of diffuse multisystem symptoms consistent with chronic multisymptom illness (CMI). We use data from a prospective longitudinal study of OIF/OEF Veterans to determine the frequency of CMI. We found that 1 yr after deployment, 49.5% of OIF/OEF Veterans met criteria for mild to moderate CMI and 10.8% met criteria for severe CMI. Over 90% of Veterans with chronic pain met criteria for CMI. CMI was not completely accounted for either by posttraumatic stress disorder or by predeployment levels of physical symptoms. Veterans with symptoms consistent with CMI reported significantly worse physical health function than Veterans who did not report symptoms consistent with CMI. This study suggests that the presence of CMI should be considered in the evaluation of OIF/OEF Veterans. Further, it suggests the pain management for these Veterans may need to be tailored to take CMI into consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M McAndrew
- War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, NJ
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Masiol M, Mallon CTM, Haines KM, Utell MJ, Hopke PK. Airborne Dioxins, Furans, and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Exposure to Military Personnel in Iraq. J Occup Environ Med 2016; 58:S22-30. [PMID: 27501100 PMCID: PMC4978085 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000000771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to use ambient polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDD), and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDF) concentrations measured at Joint Base Balad in Iraq in 2007 to identify the sources of these species and their spatial patterns. METHODS The ratios of the measured species were compared with literature data for likely emission sources. Using the multiple site measurements on specific days, contour maps have been drawn using inverse distance weighting (IDW). RESULTS These analyses suggest multiple sources, including the burn pit (primarily a source of PCDD/PCDFs), the transportation field (primarily as source of PAHs), and other sources of PAHs that include aircraft, space heating, and diesel power generation. CONCLUSIONS The nature and locations of the sources were identified. PCDD/PCDFs were emitted by the burn pit. Multiple PAH sources exist across the base.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Masiol
- Center for Air Resources Engineering and Science, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York (Drs Masiol and Hopke); Professor, Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics (Dr Mallon), Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD 20814; Bioenvironmental Engineering Flight Commander, 30th Medical Group, 338 South Dakota Ave, Vandenberg AFB, CA 93437 (Maj. Haines); Departments of Medicine and Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, New York (Dr Utell)
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Blasch K, Kolivosky J, Hill B. Occupational exposures among personnel working near combined burn pit and incinerator operations at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan. Inhal Toxicol 2016; 28:216-25. [DOI: 10.3109/08958378.2016.1145768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - John Kolivosky
- US Army Institute for Public Health, Aberdeen Prvoing Ground, MD, USA, and
| | - Barry Hill
- United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine, Wright Patterson AFB, OH, USA
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Bronchodilator Responsiveness and Airflow Limitation Are Associated With Deployment Length in Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans. J Occup Environ Med 2016; 58:325-8. [DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000000675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Szema A, Mirsaidi N, Patel B, Viens L, Forsyth E, Li J, Dang S, Dukes B, Giraldo J, Kim P, Burns M. Proposed Iraq/Afghanistan War-Lung Injury (IAW-LI) Clinical Practice Recommendations: National Academy of Sciences' Institute of Medicine Burn Pits Workshop. Am J Mens Health 2015; 11:1653-1663. [PMID: 26669772 DOI: 10.1177/1557988315619005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
High rates of respiratory symptoms (14%) and new-onset asthma in previously healthy soldiers (6.6%) have been reported among military personnel post-deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan. The term Iraq/Afghanistan War-Lung Injury (IAW-LI) is used to describe the constellation of respiratory diseases related to hazards of war, such as exposure to burning trash in burn pits, improvised explosive devices, and sandstorms. Burnpits360.org is a nonprofit civilian website which voluntarily tracks medical symptoms among soldiers post-deployment to the Middle East. Subsequent to initiation of the Burnpits360.org website, the Department of Veterans Affairs started the Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit registry. This paper: (a) analyzes the latest 38 patients in the Burnpits360.org registry, validated by DD214 Forms; (b) compares strengths and weaknesses of both registries as outlined at the National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine Burn Pits Workshop;
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Szema
- 1 Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine at Hofstra University, Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Preventive Medicine, and Epidemiology, Hempstead, NY, USA.,2 Stony Brook University, Department of Technology and Society, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Niely Mirsaidi
- 2 Stony Brook University, Department of Technology and Society, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Bhumika Patel
- 2 Stony Brook University, Department of Technology and Society, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Laura Viens
- 2 Stony Brook University, Department of Technology and Society, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Edward Forsyth
- 2 Stony Brook University, Department of Technology and Society, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Jonathan Li
- 2 Stony Brook University, Department of Technology and Society, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Sophia Dang
- 2 Stony Brook University, Department of Technology and Society, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Brittany Dukes
- 2 Stony Brook University, Department of Technology and Society, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Jheison Giraldo
- 2 Stony Brook University, Department of Technology and Society, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | | | - Matthew Burns
- 2 Stony Brook University, Department of Technology and Society, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Stony Brook, NY, USA
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Bolognesi C, Migliore L, Lista F, Caroli S, Patriarca M, De Angelis R, Capocaccia R, Amadori S, Pulliero A, Balia C, Colognato R, La Gioia V, Bonassi S, Izzotti A. Biological monitoring of Italian soldiers deployed in Iraq. Results of the SIGNUM project. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2015; 219:24-32. [PMID: 26306831 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2015.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2015] [Revised: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 08/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leukemia/lymphoma cases reported in 2001 among United Nation soldiers or peacekeepers deployed to the Balkans aroused alert on the exposure to depleted uranium. Recent epidemiological studies carried out in different European countries among peacekeepers who served in the Balkans failed to demonstrate a higher than expected risk of all cancers but, mostly due to their limitations in size and follow up time, leave open the debate on health risk of depleted uranium. The aim of SIGNUM (Study of the Genotoxic Impact in Military Units) was to identify potential genotoxic risk associated with the exposure to depleted uranium or other pollutants in the Italian Army military personnel deployed in Iraq. METHODS Blood and urine samples were collected before and after the deployment from 981 Italian soldiers operating in Iraq in 2004-2005. As, Cd, Mo, Ni, Pb, U, V, W, and Zr were determined in urine and serum. DNA-adducts, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanine and micronuclei frequency were evaluated in blood lymphocytes. Three different genetic polymorphisms, GSTM1, XRCC1, OGG1 were analyzed. RESULTS Significant T0-T1 reduction in the total concentration of uranium, increases for Cd, Mo, Ni, Zr, and decreases for As, Pb, W, and V in urine and plasma were observed. Increases in oxidative alterations and in micronuclei frequency, included in the range of values of non-occupationally exposed populations, were observed at the end of the period of employment. CONCLUSIONS Our results did not detect any toxicologically relevant variation of DNA-damage biomarkers related to the deployment in the operational theater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Bolognesi
- IRCCS AUO San Martino-IST Istituto Nazionale Ricerca sul Cancro, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Lucia Migliore
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Florigio Lista
- Army Medical and Veterinary Research Center, Rome, Italy
| | - Sergio Caroli
- Department of Food Safety and Veterinary Public Health, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Marina Patriarca
- Department of Food Safety and Veterinary Public Health, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta De Angelis
- National Centre for Epidemiology, Surveillance and Health Promotion (CNESPS), Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Capocaccia
- National Centre for Epidemiology, Surveillance and Health Promotion (CNESPS), Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | | | - Alessandra Pulliero
- IRCCS AUO San Martino-IST Istituto Nazionale Ricerca sul Cancro, Genoa, Italy
| | - Cristina Balia
- IRCCS AUO San Martino-IST Istituto Nazionale Ricerca sul Cancro, Genoa, Italy
| | - Renato Colognato
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Bonassi
- Unit of Clinical and Molecular Epidemiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Izzotti
- IRCCS AUO San Martino-IST Istituto Nazionale Ricerca sul Cancro, Genoa, Italy; Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
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Galea S. Editorial: Veterans' health. Am J Epidemiol 2015; 181:223-4. [PMID: 25678565 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwu337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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