Histological and Endocrine Effects of Chronic Exposure to MP2.5 Derived from Wood Smoke in the Uterus of Nulliparous Adult Rats

SUMMARY: The study explores the relationship between chronic exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), sourced from wood smoke, and the histological structure and endocrine function of the uterus in nulliparous adult rats. It assesses potential structural changes in the uterus that could impact reproductive health, viewing PM2.5 exposure as a possible risk factor. A controlled experiment was conducted in a city known for high air pollution levels, exposing rats to filtered and unfiltered air conditions, thus mimicking human PM2.5 exposure. Histological findings indicated a significant increase in collagen density and uterine wall thickness in PM2.5 exposed subjects, suggesting a reproductive function risk. However, no significant differences were observed in progesterone and estradiol hormone levels, pointing to the complex relationship between PM2.5 exposure and its endocrine impact, and emphasizing the need for further studies for a deeper understanding. This work highlights the importance of thoroughly investigating the long-term effects of PM2.5 pollution on reproductive health, underlining the significance of considering environmental exposure as a critical factor in reproductive health research.

El estudio explora la relación entre la exposición crónica a partículas finas (PM2,5), procedentes del humo de leña, y la estructura histológica y la función endocrina del útero en ratas adultas nulíparas. Evalúa posibles cambios estructurales en el útero que podrían afectar la salud reproductiva, considerando la exposición a PM2,5 como un posible factor de riesgo. Se llevó a cabo un experimento controlado en una ciudad conocida por sus altos niveles de contaminación del aire, exponiendo ratas a condiciones de aire filtrado y sin filtrar, imitando así la exposición humana a PM2,5. Los hallazgos histológicos indicaron un aumento significativo en la densidad del colágeno y el grosor de la pared uterina en sujetos expuestos a PM2,5, lo que sugiere un riesgo para la función reproductiva. Sin embargo, no se observaron diferencias significativas en los niveles de las hormonas progesterona y estradiol, lo que apunta a la compleja relación entre la exposición a PM2,5 y su impacto endocrino, y enfatiza la necesidad de realizar más estudios para una comprensión más profunda. Este trabajo destaca la importancia de investigar a fondo los efectos a largo plazo de la contaminación por PM2,5 en la salud reproductiva, subrayando la importancia de considerar la exposición ambiental como un factor crítico en la investigación de la salud reproductiva.

El humo del electrocauterio, el riesgo olvidado y minimizado de la cirugía / Smoke from electrocautery, the forgotten and minimized risk of surgery

Introducción. La nueva era de la cirugía es cada vez más dependiente de la tecnología, y un ejemplo de ello es el uso generalizado de electrocauterio como parte primordial de la práctica quirúrgica. El humo quirúrgico es un subproducto de la disección y la coagulación de los tejidos producidas por los equipos de energía, que representa múltiples riesgos potenciales para la salud del grupo quirúrgico, sin embargo, se han minimizado los peligros causados por la exposición de manera frecuente y acumulativa a este aerosol. Métodos. Se realizó un análisis crítico, desde una posición reflexiva de la información disponible, estableciendo los posibles riesgos relacionados con la exposición al humo quirúrgico. Discusión. Es visible la necesidad imperativa de establecer directrices nacionales, pautas normativas y recomendaciones estandarizadas para cumplir con las exigencias dadas por los sistemas de gestión en salud ocupacional y seguridad del trabajo, cuyo objetivo principal es hacer efectivo el uso de mascarillas quirúrgicas apropiadas, la implementación de programa de vigilancia epidemiológica ambiental en sala de cirugía, la priorización del uso constante de aspiradores y sistemas de evacuación, y la ejecución de programas educativos de sensibilización dirigidos al personal implicado. De igual manera, se abre la inquietud de la necesidad de nuevos estudios para definir con mayor precisión el peligro de este aerosol. Conclusión. Se recomienda de manera responsable utilizar todas las estrategias preventivas existentes para intervenir en salas de cirugía los riesgos minimizados y olvidados del humo quirúrgico.

Introduction. The new era of surgery is increasingly dependent on technology, and an example of this is the widespread use of electrocautery as a primary part of surgical practice. Surgical smoke is a byproduct of the dissection and coagulation of tissues produced by energy equipment, which represents multiple potential health risks for the surgical group; however, the dangers caused by cumulative exposure have been minimized. Methods. A critical analysis was carried out from a reflective position of the available information, establishing the possible risks related to exposure to surgical smoke. Discussion. The imperative need to establish national normative guidelines and standardized recommendations to comply with the demands given by the occupational health and work safety management systems, whose main objective is to make effective the use of appropriate surgical masks, implementation of environmental epidemiological surveillance program in the operating room, prioritizing the constant use of vacuum cleaners and evacuation systems, and carrying out educational awareness programs aimed at the personnel involved. Likewise, there is concern about the need for new studies to more precisely define the danger of this aerosol. Conclusion. It is recommended to responsibly use all existing preventive strategies to intervene in operating rooms to minimize the forgotten risks of surgical smoke.

Effects of 4-day cigarette smoke exposure combined with poly(I:C)stimulation on lung immune response and interferon expression in mice / 中国免疫学杂志

Objective:To investigate effects of short-term cigarette smoke exposure combined with poly(I:C)stimulation on lung immune response and interferon expression in mice.Methods:BALB/c mice were randomly divided into 4 groups:control group,smoke group,poly(I:C)group and smoke combined poly(I:C)group.Total cell number and cell classification count of bronchoalveo-lar lavage fluid(BALF)were detected,and cell morphology was observed under ordinary light.Cytokines,chemokines,interferon and interferon stimulating genes expressions in lung tissues were detected by fluorescence quantitative PCR.Results:Compared with control group,total cell count,macrophage count and neutrophil count in smoke combined poly(I:C)group were significantly increased(P<0.05),and macrophage count was higher than that in poly(I:C)group.Macrophages of airway lavage fluid of mice in smoke combined with poly(I:C)group were larger in size,round or irregular in shape,and had more vacuoles in cytoplasm.Com-pared with control group,mRNA expressions of neutrophil chemokine CXCL1(P<0.05),CXCL2(P<0.01)and lymphocyte chemo-kine CCL2(P<0.01)in lung tissues of mice in smoke combined with poly(I:C)group were increased.IL-1β,IL-6,TNF-α mRNA expressions were significantly increased(P<0.01),IFN-β(P<0.01),IFN-γ(P<0.05),MX2(P<0.01)and IP-10(P<0.01)expre-ssions in lung tissues were significantly increased,and compared with poly(I:C)group,mRNA expressions of CXCL2(P<0.05),TNF-α(P<0.01)and IFN-β(P<0.05)in lung tissues of mice in smoke combined with poly(I:C)group were significantly increased.Conclusion:Cigarette smoke combined with poly(I:C)induces lung inflammation and expressions of interferon and interferon stimu-lating genes in mice.Cigarette exposure also increases poly(I:C)-induced acute lung inflammation and type Ⅰ interferon expression in mice.

Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging study on the interaction effects between smoking addiction and weight status on brain activity / 中华行为医学与脑科学杂志

Objective:To explore the interaction effects on brain activity between the smoking addiction and weight status by resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging.Methods:Retrospective analysis of clinical data and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data were analyzed from 99 recruited subjects from January 2019 to December 2021. All participants were divided into four groups: overweight smokers ( n=24), normal-weight smokers ( n=28), overweight non-smokers ( n=19), and normal weight non-smokers ( n=28). Calculate regional homogeneity (ReHo) to reflect the internal brain activity of the subjects. Two-way ANOVA was used to detect the interaction effects between smoking addiction and overweight on ReHo by SPM12 software, correcting for age, years of education and head motion. Results:The interaction effect between smoking addiction and overweight on ReHo was significant in right superior frontal gyrus(x, y, z=15, 9, 60)(GRF corrected, Pvoxel<0.005, Pcluster<0.05). The ReHo value in the right superior frontal gyrus of overweight smokers was significantly higher than that of normal weight smokers ( t=3.768, P<0.001, Bonferroni corrected). The ReHo values in the right superior frontal gyrus of overweight non-smokers were significantly lower than those of normal weight non-smokers ( t=-3.242, P=0.002, Bonferroni corrected). The ReHo values in the right superior frontal gyurs of normal-weight smokers were significantly lower than those of normal weight non-smokers( t=-3.540, P=0.001, Bonferroni corrected). The ReHo values in the right superior frontal gyrus of overweight smokers were significantly higher than those of overweight non-smokers ( t=3.392, P=0.002, Bonferroni corrected). Correlation analyses showed that the strengthen ReHo value in right superior frontal gyrus was positively associated with pack-year in smoking addicts( r=0.387, P=0.007, Bonferroni corrected). Conclusion:Smoking addiction and overweight have an antagonistic effect on brain activity in the right superior frontal gyrus, which may provide potential therapeutic targets for individuals with comorbidity of smoking addiction and overweight.

Impacts of environmental tobacco smoke on the onset and progression of multiple sclerosis: a systematic review / Impactos do fumo passivo no surgimento e na progressão da esclerose múltipla: uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Background Unlike cigarette smoking, environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) has not been as well described as an environmental risk for Multiple sclerosis (MS) nor as a risk factor for disease progression. Objective We systematically reviewed the association between ETS and the risk of onset and/or progression of MS. Methods We systematically screened MedLine/PubMed, Science Direct, LILACs, and SciELO searching for publications between January 1st, 2010, and July 5, 2021, with the following keywords: "multiple sclerosis and smoking"; "multiple sclerosis and passive smoking"; "multiple sclerosis and secondhand smoking". Results Fifteen articles were included in this review, which consisted of systematic reviews with meta-analysis (N = 2), systematic reviews (N = 2), and observational studies (N = 11). Both meta-analyses reported an impact of ETS on MS onset among secondhand smokers. One of the systematic reviews selected two observational studies showing the association between ETS and MS development, and one study that did not find a significant association between ETS and the risk of MS development. The other systematic review identified selected eight articles showing a relationship between ETS and MS. Seven observational studies reported higher odds of MS onset when associated with ETS. Four observational studies did not show a relationship between ETS and MS onset or progression. Conclusion Most articles showed a positive association between ETS exposure and the risk of developing MS. On the other hand, an association between ETS and a higher risk for MS progression could not be established.

Resumo Antecedentes Ao contrário do tabagismo ativo, o fumo passivo (FP) não é tão bem estabelecido como risco para o desenvolvimento de esclerose múltipla (EM) nem como um fator de risco para a progressão da doença. Objetivo Revisamos sistematicamente a associação entre FP e o risco de aparecimento e/ou progressão da EM. Métodos Fizemos uma triagem sistemática nas bases de dados MedLine/PubMed, Science Direct, LILACs e SciELO em busca de publicações entre 1° de janeiro de 2010 e 5 de julho de 2021 com as seguintes palavras-chave: "multiple sclerosis and smoking"; "multiple sclerosis and passive smoking"; "multiple sclerosis and secondhand smoking". Resultados Quinze artigos foram incluídos nesta revisão, que consistiu em revisões sistemáticas com metanálise (N = 2), revisões sistemáticas (N = 2) e estudos observacionais (N = 11). As metanálises relataram um impacto do FP no surgimento da EM entre fumantes passivos. Um revisão sistemática selecionou dois estudos observacionais mostrando a associação entre FP e desenvolvimento de EM, e um estudo que não encontrou associação significativa entre FP e o risco de desenvolvimento de EM. Outra revisão sistemática identificou oito artigos selecionados mostrando uma relação entre FP e EM. Sete estudos observacionais relataram maiores chances de aparecimento de EM quando associados a FP. Quatro estudos observacionais não mostraram uma relação entre FP e o desenvolvimento ou progressão da EM. Conclusão A maioria dos artigos mostrou uma associação positiva entre a exposição ao FP e o risco de desenvolver EM. Por outro lado, não foi possível estabelecer uma associação entre FP e maior risco de progressão da EM.

Caracterización del tabaquismo en una unidad de cuidados intermedios de un hospital de referencia

Introducción: Las enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles (ECNT), como el cáncer, enfermedades cardiovasculares y respiratorias, son la epidemia del siglo XXI, siendo el tabaquismo un factor de riesgo común. Objetivo: Caracterizar a los pacientes tabáquicos de la Unidad de Tratamientos Intermedios (UTI) del Instituto Nacional del Tórax. Material y Método: Estudio observacional, analítico y descriptivo. Se evaluaron 150 ingresos consecutivos a la UTI desde el 01 de septiembre al 01 de diciembre de 2022. Resultados: La prevalencia de tabaquismo fue de un 56%, incluyendo exfumadores. La media de edad fue de 64 años. La exposición a humo de segunda mano resultó significativa con un 41,7% en fumadores activos. Las asociaciones con hipertensión arterial, EPOC y cáncer pulmonar resultaron significativas. Un 20,2% de los pacientes con cáncer pulmonar tenían tabaquismo activo. No fueron significativos los días de estadía en la unidad, hospitalaria general ni fallecimientos. Conclusiones: En nuestra cohorte la prevalencia de tabaquismo fue más alta que la nacional y se confirmó su vínculo con las ECNT. Identificamos que la exposición de segunda mano fue significativa, por lo que los esfuerzos para el cese del tabaquismo deben ir enfocados tanto al paciente como su entorno cercano. A pesar que algunos pacientes tenían el diagnóstico de cáncer pulmonar, un porcentaje no menor seguía fumando, por lo que es relevante incorporar a este grupo de pacientes a programas especializados para reducir morbilidad. Con nuestro estudio reafirmamos la importancia de continuar con los esfuerzos nacionales por reducir el tabaquismo como acción preventiva de las ECNT y sus complicaciones.

Introduction: Chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as cancer, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, are the epidemic of the 21st century, smoking being a common risk factor. Objective: To characterize smoking patients in the Intermediate Treatment Unit (ICU) of the Chilean National Thorax Institute. Material and Method: Observational, analytical and descriptive study. 150 consecutive admissions to the ICU were evaluated from September 1 to December 1, 2022. Results: The prevalence of smoking was 56%, including former smokers. The average age was 64 years-old. Exposure to secondhand smoke was significant with 41.7% in active smokers. The associations with high blood pressure, COPD and lung cancer were significant. 20.2% of patients with lung cancer were active smokers. The days of stay in the unit, general hospital stay, or deaths were not significant. Conclusions: In our cohort the prevalence of smoking was higher than the national average and its link with NCDs is confirmed. We identified that secondhand exposure was significant, so efforts to stop smoking must be focused on both the patient and their immediate environment. Although some patients had a diagnosis of lung cancer, a significant percentage continued to smoke, making it important to incorporate this group of patients into specialized programs to reduce morbidity. With our study we reaffirm the importance of continuing national efforts to reduce smoking as a preventive action for NCDs and their complications.

Escala de Resistencia a la Presión de Pares para el Consumo de Cigarro Convencional en estudiantes universitarios: adaptación y validación / Resistance to Peer Pressure for Cigarette Smoking in University Students: Scale Adaptation and Validation / Escala de resistência à pressão dos pares para o consumo de cigarros em universitários: adaptação e validação

Introducción: la influencia o presión de pares que fuman es uno de los principales factores por los que los estudiantes universitarios inician el consumo del cigarro convencional; sin embargo, no se ha encontrado un instrumento que evalúe este fenómeno. Por lo tanto, el objetivo fue adaptar y validar la Escala de Resistencia a la Presión de Pares para el Consumo de Cigarro Convencional. Materiales y métodos: participaron 237 estudiantes universitarios del estado de Nuevo León (México), de 18 a 24 años. Se realizó análisis factorial exploratorio, análisis de confiabilidad, correlación de Spearman y prueba de Kruskal-Wallis. Resultados: el 63.3 % de los estudiantes fueron mujeres y la media de edad fue de 19.66 años. Se identificaron dos factores con un total de 13 ítems. Se obtuvo un alfa de Cronbach de 0.81. Se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los distintos tipos de consumidores de cigarro convencional y los puntajes de la escala de resistencia a la presión de pares (H[4] = 23.85; p < 0.001). Conclusiones: la nueva versión de la Escala de Resistencia a la Presión de Pares para el Consumo de Cigarro Convencional evidenció adecuadas propiedades psicométricas para evaluar la presión que ejercen los pares en estudiantes universitarios para el consumo de cigarro convencional

Introduction: Influence or peer pressure is one of the leading factors in developing cigarette smoking habits in university students; however, no effective strategy to assess this phenomenon has been developed yet. This study aimed to adapt and validate the peer pressure resistance scale to conventional cigarette consumption. Materials and methods: A total of 237 university students from the Nuevo León State (Mexico), aged 18­24 years, were enrolled. Exploratory factor and reliability analyses, the Spearman correlation, and the Kruskal­Wallis test were performed. Results: 63.3% of the students were women, and the mean age was 19.66 years. The exploratory analysis extracted two factors with a total of 13 items. A Cronbach's Alpha of 0.81 was found. Statistically significant differences were found between the different types of conventional cigarette users and peer pressure resistance scale scores [H(4) = 23.85; p < .001] were found. Conclusions: The peer pressure resistance scale showed appropriate psychometric properties for assessing the peer pressure to smoke conventional cigarettes in university students.

Introdução: a influência ou pressão dos pares que fumam é um dos principais fatores que levam os universitários a começarem a fumar cigarros convencionais, porém não foi encontrado nenhum instrumento para avaliar esse fenômeno. Portanto, o objetivo do trabalho foi adaptar e validar a escala de resistência à pressão dos pares para o consumo de cigarro convencional. Materiais e métodos: participaram 237 estudantes universitários do estado de Nuevo León, México, de 18 a 24 anos. Foram realizadas análise fatorial exploratória, análise de confiabilidade, correlação de Spearman e teste de Kruskal-Wallis. Resultados: 63,3% dos alunos eram mulheres e a média de idade foi de 19,66 anos. Dois fatores foram identificados com um total de 13 itens. Obteve-se um alfa de Cronbach de 0,81. Diferenças estatisticamente significativas foram encontradas entre os diferentes tipos de usuários de cigarros convencionais e as pontuações na escala de resistência à pressão dos pares (H(4) = 23,85; p < 0,001). Conclusões: a nova versão da escala de resistência à pressão dos pares para o consumo de cigarros convencionais apresentou propriedades psicométricas adequadas para avaliar a pressão exercida pelos pares sobre os universitários para o consumo de cigarros convencionais

Effects of Exposure to Incense Smoke Associated with Impaired Lung Function and Respiratory Disease: A Systematic Review

The community uses incense (bakhour) through ceremonies, traditional health practices, and aromatherapy. Nevertheless, evidence from experiments and studies of populations suggests that a habit of burning incense makes the lungs work less well. The study investigated the relationship between exposure to incense smoke and impaired lung function and respiratory diseases. Data tracing was carried out systematically following PRISMA guidelines from January to April 2022 and registered in the PROSPERO database. The articles select-ed in this review were cross-sectional, cohort, observational, and experimental studies based on the criteria: (1) animals or humans exposed to incense smoke; (2) exposure to incense smoke which was carried out in-doors or outdoors; (3) the selected articles which were included in the original type of article; (4) the publica-tion year between 2016-2021 and the selected articles entered into reputable journals (Scopus and Web of Science). JBI guidelines and synthesis guidelines without meta-analysis (SWiM) to determine the level of evi-dence and minimize bias and interpretation of results. This study describes respiratory symptoms or diseases, home use of incense, and lung function measurement. Six articles were included; 6 (100%) reported using in-cense indoors, and 5 (83%) reported using incense outside the home. Respiratory symptoms and diseases caused by exposure to incense sticks are 5 (83%) shortness of breath, 6 (100%) wheezing, asthma, and in-flammation of the lungs, 2 (33%) chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and 4 (67%) allergic rhinitis. In-cense smoke particles decrease lung function based on FVC, FEV, PEFR, and FEF values of 25-75%. The results indicate that smoking incense adversely affects lung function and leads to respiratory diseases. The communi-ty and related parties can minimize and conduct education and prevention related to simultaneous incense exposure in the community to reduce the burden of diseases and disorders due to respiratory incense smoke in areas that use it daily.

Existence of SARS-Cov-2 in the Peritoneal Fluid / Existência de SARS-Cov-2 no líquido peritoneal

Abstract Objective To determine the existence of SARS-CoV-2 in the peritoneal fluid to assess the risk of exposure through surgical smoke and aerosolization threatening healthcare workers during abdominal surgery. Background SARS-CoV-2 is a respiratory virus and possible ways of viral transmission are respiratory droplets, close contact, and fecal-oral route. Surgeries pose risk for healthcare workers due to the close contact with patients. Aerosolized particles may be inhaled via the leaked CO2 during laparoscopic procedures and surgical smoke produced by electrocautery. Methods All the data of 8 patients, who were tested positive for COVID-19, were collected between August 31, 2020 and April 30, 2021. Recorded clinicopathologic data included age, symptoms, radiological and laboratory findings, antiviral treatment before surgery, type of surgery and existence of the virus in the peritoneal fluid. Nasopharyngeal swab RT-PCR was used for the diagnosis. COVID-19 existence in the peritoneal fluid was determined by RT-PCR test as well. Results All 8 COVID-19 positive patients were pregnant, and surgeries were cesarean sections. 1 of the 8 patients was febrile during surgery. Also only 1 patient had pulmonary radiological findings specifically indicating COVID-19 infection. Laboratory findings were as follows: 4 of 8 had lymphopenia and all had elevated D-dimer levels. Peritoneal and amniotic fluid samples of all patients were negative for SARS-CoV-2. Conclusion SARS-CoV-2 exposure due to aerosolization or surgical fumes does not seem to be likely, provided the necessary precautions are taken.

Resumo Objetivo Determinar a existência de SARS-CoV-2 no fluido peritoneal para avaliar o risco de exposição através da fumaça cirúrgica e aerossolização que ameaçam os profissionais de saúde durante a cirurgia abdominal. Contexto O SARS-CoV-2 é um vírus respiratório e as possíveis formas de transmissão viral são gotículas respiratórias, contato próximo e rota fecal-oral. As cirurgias representam risco para os profissionais de saúde devido ao contato próximo com os pacientes. As partículas aerossolizadas podem ser inaladas através do CO2 vazado durante os procedimentos laparoscópicos e a fumaça cirúrgica produzida pela eletrocauterização. Métodos Todos os dados de 8 pacientes, que foram testados positivos para COVID-19, foram coletados entre 31 de agosto de 2020 e 30 de abril de 2021. Dados clinicopatológicos registrados incluíam idade, sintomas, achados radiológicos e laboratoriais, tratamento antiviral antes da cirurgia, tipo de cirurgia e existência do vírus no fluido peritoneal. O diagnóstico foi feito através do swab nasofaríngeo RT-PCR. A existência de COVID-19 no fluido peritoneal foi determinada pelo teste de RT-PCR também. Resultados Todas as 8 pacientes positivas para COVID-19 estavam grávidas, e as cirurgias eram cesarianas. 1 das 8 pacientes estava com febre durante a cirurgia. Também apenas 1 paciente tinha achados radiológicos pulmonares especificamente indicando infecção por COVID-19. Os achados laboratoriais foram os seguintes: 4 de 8 tinham linfopenia e todas apresentavam níveis elevados de D-dímero. Amostras de fluido peritoneal e líquido amniótico de todas as pacientes foram negativas para SARS-CoV-2. Conclusão A exposição ao SARS-CoV-2 devido à aerossolização ou fumaças cirúrgicas não parece ser provável, desde que sejam tomadas as precauções necessárias.

Calculating the risk of fire in community pharmacies. Gustav-Purt method

Introduction: Fire is a chemical reaction of combustion, based on the strongly exothermic "oxidation-reduction" phenomena that produce a big detachment of light and heat.Its effects are, generally, harmful, producing personal injuries due to smoke, toxic gasses, and extremely hot temperatures; and damaged materials and buildings. Fire is produced when the three following factors simultaneously coexist in time and space: Fuel; a comburent agent, usually the oxygen in the air; and heat, which contributes the necessary energy to actuate the reaction. Besides, it is necessary, for the production of the flame, the existence of a chain reaction. Method: The Gustav-Purt Method, which aim is to calculate the potential risk in a determinate building and of the means to fight fires should be implemented. Results: After the calculation of the distinct factors, the conclusion that the risk of fire in a pharmacy is high is reached. Discussion: Therefore, strict inspection by sanitary authorities to avert the danger of the fire is necessary.

Introducción: El fuego es una reacción química de combustión, basado en los fenómenos de oxidación-reducción fuertemente exotérmica que se manifiesta por desprender gran cantidad de luz y calor. Sus efectos son generalmente perjudiciales, produciendo daños personales por el humo, gases tóxicos y temperaturas extremas, causando grandes daños a instalaciones y bienes. El fuego se produce cuándo existen simultáneamente en el tiempo y en un mismo lugar los tres factores siguientes: Combustible, Agente Comburente, normalmente el oxígeno del aire y Calor, que contribuye con la energía necesaria para activar la reacción. Además, es necesario, para la producción de la llama, la existencia de reacciones de cadena. Método: El método de Gustav Purt, tiene por objetivo calcular el riesgo potencial existente en un edificio determinado y qué medios de lucha contra incendios son necesarios implementar. Resultados: Tras el cálculo de los distintos factores, se llega a la conclusión que el riesgo de incendio en una farmacia es elevado. Discusión: Por consiguiente, es necesario la estricta inspección de las autoridades sanitarias de la Administración para evitar el peligro del fuego.

Challenges of Second-hand Smoke: Are We Asking the Right Questions?

Second-hand tobacco smoke as defined by WHO is the smoke emitted by a smoker or released from a burnt cigarette or any tobacco product. It is highly prevalent all over the globe but its serious health implications are often neglected by the public and the scientific community alike. Second-hand smoke has everlasting impact on all the body’s major organs, especially among the vulnerable population of children, pregnant ladies, people with chronic diseases and senior citizens. Although India started its war against this menace earlier than other counties, all its efforts remain bootless as its approach and implementation have a wide range of lacunae. This review aims to give a big picture of second-hand smoke, highlighting its pathophysiological changes in the body, socioeconomic impact, various strategies, and the gap that prevents these strategies from finding a favorable result in India. It becomes all the more important to reduce its impact owing to the increase in prevalence among youth reducing their vitality, derailing the society and the nation. It is recommended that the health authorities approach this health problem with utmost seriousness as a laid-back approach could welcome this silent killer’s known and unknown repercussions

Auditory and visual reaction times among children of chronic smokers and non-smokers: A comparative study

Background: Tobacco consumption is the primary cause for cancers in men and women in India. Second hand smoking also has toxins in the similar concentration affecting children in particular leading to many health-related conditions including neurological disorders. The present study was done with the hypothesis that passive smoking in children causes delay in their reaction time when compared to the children of non-smokers which indicates cognition deficit. Aims and Objectives: The objectives of the study are as follows: (1) Comparison of the visual simple reaction time (VSRT) and visual choice reaction time (VCRT) among the children of chronic smokers and non-smokers and (2) to compare the auditory simple reaction time (ASRT) and auditory choice reaction time (ACRT) among the children of chronic smokers and non-smokers. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. After obtaining necessary permission and consents, 30 children aged between 8 and 14 years with exposure to passive smoking as cases and 30 children of non-smoking parents as controls were included in the study. Audio-visual reaction timer was used. Results: Student’s “t” test was used for analysis. Mean value of VSRT showed 248.3 ms among controls and 277.7 ms in cases; VCRT among controls was 277.4 ms and 309.1 ms in cases (P < 0.05). Means of ASRT in controls was 213 ms and 250.4 in cases; ACRT in controls was 244 ms and among cases was 272.4 ms (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Significant delay in VSRT, VCRT, and ASRT was seen among the children exposed to tobacco smoke. ACRT also showed delayed response but not statistically significant.

Osseointegration of implants with superhydrophilic surfaces in rats with high serum levels of nicotine

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effect of nicotine administration on the osseointegration of a superhydrophilic implants surface on rat tibiae. Thirty-two rats were used and divided into 2 groups according to the administration or not of nicotine: HH - Installation of implants with superhydrophilic surfaces in healthy animals; and HN - Installation of implants with superhydrophilic surfaces in animals subjected to nicotine administration. The animals were euthanized 15 and 45 days after implant placement (n = 8). Osseointegration was assessed by means of biomechanical analyses (removal torque), microcomputed tomography (volume of bone around the implants- %BV/TV), and histomorphometry (bone-implant contact -%BIC and the bone area between implant threads -%BBT). The animals subject to the nicotine administration presented lower removal torque than the control animals at the 45-day period (21.88 ± 2.80 Ncm vs. 17.88 ± 2.10 Ncm). The implants placed in the control rats presented higher %BIC (54.26 ± 6.59% vs. 39.25 ± 4.46%) and %BBT (50.57 ± 5.28% vs. 32.25 ± 5.24%) than the implants placed in nicotine animals at 15-day period. The nicotine administration reduces the osseointegration at 15 days, however, the superhydrophilic surface equalized the osseointegration in nicotine-exposed animals compared with healthy animals after 45 days of implant placement.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da administração de nicotina na osseointegração de implantes com superfície modificada por jateamento de oxidos e ataque ácido instalados em tíbia de ratos. Foram utilizados 32 ratos que foram divididos em 2 grupos de acordo com a administração ou não de nicotina: HH - Instalação de implantes com superfícies superhidrofílicas em animais sadios; e HN - Instalação de implantes com superfícies superhidrofílicas em animais submetidos à administração de nicotina. Os animais foram eutanasiados 15 e 45 dias após a colocação do implante (n = 8). A osseointegração foi avaliada por meio de análises biomecânicas (torque de remoção), microtomografia (volume de osso ao redor dos implantes - %BV/TV) e histomorfometrica (contato osso-implante -%BIC e área óssea entre roscas do implante -%BBT). Os animais submetidos à administração de nicotina apresentaram menor torque de remoção do que os animais controle no período de 45 dias (21,88 ± 2,80 Ncm vs. 17,88 ± 2,10 Ncm). Os implantes colocados nos ratos controle apresentaram maiores %BIC (54,26 ± 6,59% vs. 39,25 ± 4,46%) e %BBT (50,57 ± 5,28% vs. 32,25 ± 5,24%) do que os implantes colocados nos animais submetidos a administração de nicotina no período de 15 dias. A administração de nicotina prejudicou a osseointegração no período de 15 dias. Entretanto, a superfície superhidrofílica equalizou a osseointegração em animais expostos à nicotina em comparação com animais saudáveis após 45 dias da colocação do implante.

Association between secondhand smoke exposure in indoor public places and carotid intima media thickness in children and adolescents / 中国学校卫生

Objective@#To examine the association between secondhand smoke exposure (SHS) in indoor public places and carotid intima media thickness (cIMT) in children and adolescents, so as to provide guidance for the prevention of early abnormal vascular architecture.@*Methods@#The data were obtained from the second follow up of the Children Cardiovascular Health Cohort Study conducted from November to December 2021. A total of 1 297 children and adolescents for who completed data relating to sex, age, cIMT, physical examinations, questionnaires variables and blood biochemical indices, were included for analysis. Linear regression analysis was performed to examine trends in the levels of cIMT with exposure to SHS in indoor public places. Multiple linear regression analysis was carried out to assess the association between SHS exposure in indoor public places and cIMT after adjustment for potential covariates.@*Results@#During the previous 7 days, 407 (31.4%) children and adolescents were exposed to SHS in indoor public places for 1-2 days, 86 (6.6%) for 3-4 days, and 82 (6.3%) for ≥5 days. The levels of cIMT in youth increased on different models, with the duration of SHS exposure during the previous 7 days ( t=3.30, 3.05, 2.87, P <0.05). After adjusting for various covariates, the cIMT values of children and adolescents were[0 day:(551.5±29.3) μm, 1-2 days:(554.0±28.6) μm, 3-4 days:(557.0±27.7) μm, ≥5 days:(559.4±27.5) μm]. Compared to those who were not exposed to SHS in indoor public places during the previous 7 days, those exposed for ≥5 days had significantly higher cIMT levels ( β=7.91, 95%CI=1.47-14.34, P <0.05).@*Conclusion@#Among children and adolescents, exposure to SHS in indoor public places remains high and is significantly associated with cIMT. The findings highlight the need for stricter regulation and tobacco control policies to provide healthy smoke free environments for children and adolescents, and to reduce the risk of early abnormal vascular architecture.

Association between secondhand smoke exposure in indoor public places and sleep deprivation in children / 中国学校卫生

Objective@#To examine the association between secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure in indoor public places and sleep deprivation, so as to provide a reference for strengthening the management of a smoking ban in public places and to promote better sleep in childhood.@*Methods@#Data were obtained from the second follow up survey of the Huantai Childhood Cardiovascular Health Cohort Study, which was conducted from November to December 2021. A total of 1 284 children aged 10-15 years old were included in the study. The participants were assigned to four groups (0, 1-2, 3-4 and ≥5 days) according to the frequency which they were exposed to SHS in indoor public places in the previous 7 days. Multiple linear regression was performed to examine the trend of children s sleep duration with the frequency of SHS exposure. Multivariate Logistic regression was carried out to determine the association between frequency of SHS and sleep deprivation.@*Results@#After adjusting for age, sex, grade, physical activity, intake of fruits/vegetables, intake of soft drinks, screen duration, body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure, the average sleep duration of children who were exposed to SHS for 0, 1-2, 3-4 and ≥5 days in the previous 7 days was 8.48, 8.41, 8.20 and 8.06 h/d , respectively, and the average sleep duration decreased with exposure frequency of SHS ( t=5.96, 5.89, 5.91, P < 0.01 ). The proportion of sleep deprivation among children who were exposed to SHS in public places for 0, 1-2, 3-4 and ≥5 days in the previous 7 days was 40.02%, 43.07%, 54.65% and 63.41%, respectively. Compared to children who were not exposed to SHS in indoor public places in the past 7 days, those exposed for 3-4 days ( OR=1.93, 95%CI =1.19-3.15) or ≥ 5 days ( OR=2.95, 95%CI = 1.76- 4.94) had a significantly increased risk of sleep deprivation ( P <0.05).@*Conclusion@#Children s sleep time decreases with increasing frequency of exposure to SHS, and children who are frequently exposed to SHS are more likely to experience insufficient sleep. Smoking ban management in public places should be strengthened to promote children s sleep health, especially indoor public places.

Dendrobium Polysaccharides Mitigate CSE-induced Inflammatory Damage of Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells via TLR4/NF-κB Pathway / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo observe the effects of Dendrobium polysaccharides on the secretion of inflammatory cytokines and Toll-like receptor 4 （TLR4）/nuclear factor （NF）-κB pathway in 16HBE cells exposed to cigarette smoke extract （CSE）. MethodThe 16HBE cells were classified into the control， CSE， and CSE+ Dendrobium polysaccharides （100， 200， 400 mg·L-1） groups. The cell-counting kit-8 （CCK-8） assay was employed to measure the cell viability， and a microscope was used to observe the cell morphology. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was employed to measure the levels of interleukin （IL）-8， IL-1β， IL-4， IL-13， and transforming growth factor （TGF）-β in cell culture supernatants. Real-time PCR was carried out to determine the mRNA levels of Toll-like receptor 4 （TLR4）， nuclear factor-κB （NF-κB）， and IL-4. Western blot was employed to determine the protein levels of interleukin-4 receptor （IL-4R）， TLR4， myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88 （MyD88）， NF-κB， phosphorylated nuclear factor-κB （p-NF-κB）， and nucleoproteins nuclear factor-κB （NEs-NF-κB）. The immunofluorescence assay was employed to measure the nuclear translocation of NF-κB. ResultCompared with the control group， the CSE group showed elevated levels of IL-8， IL-1β， IL-4， IL-13， and TGF-β in the cell culture supernatants （P<0.05， P<0.01）， up-regulated expression levels of TLR4， MyD88， NF-κB， p-NF-κB， NEs-NF-κB， and IL-4 （P<0.01）， and significant nuclear translocation of NF-κB. Compared with the CSE group， Dendrobium polysaccharides increased the cell survival rate， recovered the cell activity， lowered the levels of IL-8， IL-1β， IL-4， IL-13， and TGF-β， down-regulated the expression of TLR4， MyD88， NF-κB， p-NF-κB， NEs-NF-κB， and IL-4 （P<0.05， P<0.01）， and reduced the nuclear translocation of NF-κB. ConclusionDendrobium polysaccharides showed significant protective effects on the 16HBE cells exposed to CSE by inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Attitude Towards Anti-smoking Measures and Its Associated Factors Among Adults in Sub-urban Area, in Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia

@#Introduction: General population across different countries have shown an overall support for anti-smoking measures that vary significantly by certain population parameters. However, characteristics of the public attitude in a community who has been exposed to prolonged awareness campaigns and smoke-free area legislation is unclear. Consequently, we investigate residents who reside next to Batu Buruk beach in Kuala Terengganu city which has been gazetted as a smoke-free area since 2017. Methods: The cross-sectional study involves self-administered validated questionnaires. Multiple linear regression with forward method was applied to identify significant factors associated with the attitude towards anti-smoking measures. Results: A total of 295 residents participated. Most of them were Malays (96.6%), married (64.4%), attained up to the secondary school level (45.4%) and employed (59.7%). The mean value of the total attitude scores was 181.86 (range: 70-200). Multivariate analyses revealed those having higher monthly income had a higher total attitude scores (adjusted b: 6.91, 95% CI: 2.15, 11.66), while current daily smokers had a lower total attitude scores towards anti-smoking measures than non-smokers (adjusted b: -23.30, 95% CI: -29.55, -17.05). These findings highlight comparatively stronger and more consistent support for anti-smoking measures that may vindicate high-stake investment and legislation against smoking. Conclusion: The novel evidence may also better-inform the strategy to expand the initiatives further through profiling the target population with heightened emphasis on the economic standing and prevalence of current daily smokers. Future research may adopt experimental design to establish causality relationship between predictors and outcomes revealed in this community.

Effect of zinc and probiotics supplementation on IL-6 and tissue neutrophil levels in rats exposed to cigarette smoke

@#Introduction: Cigarette smoke exposure can cause inflammation, inducing the release of acute phase cytokines, such as IL-6, that will then trigger the recruitment of neutrophils, which are mostly phagocytic cells. Zinc and probiotics are known to have beneficial effects against inflammation. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of zinc and probiotics supplementation on IL-6 and tissue neutrophil levels in rats exposed to cigarette smoke. Methods: In a randomised, experimental study with post-test control group design, thirty 2 to 3-month-old male Wistar rats, each weighing 180-220 g, were divided into five groups: control group without treatment (C); exposed to cigarette smoke [C (-)]; exposed to cigarette smoke and received zinc (Z); exposed to cigarette smoke and received probiotics (P); and exposed to cigarette smoke and received a combination of zinc and probiotics (ZP). Results: Mean tissue neutrophil levels in Z, P, and ZP groups were 43.43±2.01, 34.67±1.32,and 29.77±5.05 cells, respectively. There were significant differences between supplementation intake and tissue neutrophil levels in each group compared to C (-) group (p<0.05). Meanwhile, only IL-6 level in the ZP group (6.02 pg/mL) decreased significantly compared to C (-) group (10.61 pg/mL). Conclusion: These results suggest that a combination of zinc and probiotics have an anti-inflammatory effect as measured by IL-6 and neutrophil levels.

Attitude and behaviors towards tobacco control among civil servants in smoke-free governments of Ningbo City / 预防医学

Objective@#To investigate the attitude and behaviors towards tobacco control among civil servants in smoke-free governments of Ningbo City, so as to provide insights into the construction of smoke-free governments.@*Methods@#Ten governments were randomly sampled from city-level and county/district-level smoke-free governments in Ningbo City using a stratified random sampling method, and 10 civil servants were sampled from each government using a convenient sampling method. Participants' demographics, attitude and behaviors towards tobacco control and second-hand smoke exposure were collected using a self-designed questionnaire and descriptively analyzed.@*Results@# A total of 1 100 civil servants were recruited, including 466 men (42.36%) and had a mean age of (39.02±9.38) years. There were 1 005 participants favoring “civil servants should refuse smoking firstly” (91.36%), 1 058 participants favoring “governments should build a smoke-free environment firstly” (96.18%), 1 075 participants favoring “smoking should be completely banned in any indoor public places” (97.73%), 913 participants thinking that smoking should be completely banned in any indoor public places (83.00%) and 813 participants thinking that tobacco control regulations are implemented satisfactorily in their workplaces (73.91%). The overall prevalence of current smoking was 11.91% among participants, and the prevalence of current smoking was 28.11% among male participants. Among all current smokers, 84 attempted to quit smoking (64.12%), and 89 had willingness or plans to quit smoking (67.94%). The proportion of second-hand smoke exposure in workplaces was 40.97% among non-smokers in the past one week.@*Conclusions@# The civil servants in Ningbo City has correct awareness of smoke-free governments, active attitudes towards tobacco control and low prevalence of smoking. However, smoke-free regulations remain to be improved and long-term tobacco control mechanisms remain to be created in governments in Ningbo City

The Association between Exposure to Second-Hand Smoke and Disease in the Chinese Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis / 生物医学与环境科学（英文）

OBJECTIVE@#To analyze the association between exposure to second-hand smoke (SHS) and 23 diseases, categorized into four classifications, among the Chinese population.@*METHODS@#We searched the literature up to June 30, 2021, and eligible studies were identified according to the PECOS format: Participants and Competitors (Chinese population), Exposure (SHS), Outcomes (Disease or Death), and Study design (Case-control or Cohort).@*RESULTS@#In total, 53 studies were selected. The odds ratio (OR) for all types of cancer was 1.79 (1.56-2.05), and for individual cancers was 1.92 (1.42-2.59) for lung cancer, 1.57 (1.40-1.76) for breast cancer, 1.52 (1.12-2.05) for bladder cancer, and 1.37 (1.08-1.73) for liver cancer. The OR for circulatory system diseases was 1.92 (1.29-2.85), with a value of 2.29 (1.26-4.159) for stroke. The OR of respiratory system diseases was 1.76 (1.13-2.74), with a value of 1.82 (1.07-3.11) for childhood asthma. The original ORs were also shown for other diseases. Subgroup analyses were performed for lung and breast cancer. The ORs varied according to time period and were significant during exposure in the household; For lung cancer, the OR was significant in women.@*CONCLUSION@#The effect of SHS exposure in China was similar to that in Western countries, but its definition and characterization require further clarification. Studies on the association between SHS exposure and certain diseases with high incidence rates are insufficient.