scholarly journals First Steps towards a National Approach for Radon Survey in Romanian Schools

Atmosphere ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (1) ◽  
pp. 59
Author(s):  
Nicoleta Bican-Brișan ◽  
Gabriel-Cristian Dobrei ◽  
Bety-Denissa Burghele ◽  
Alexandra-Laura Cucoș (Dinu)
Keyword(s):  
Action Plan ◽  
Reference Level ◽  
Exposure Risk ◽  
Radon Exposure ◽  
Council Directive ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Risk Of Exposure ◽  
Radon Measurements ◽  
Radon Survey ◽  
National Approach

Schools are a category of public buildings with a high radon exposure risk, due to their high occupancy factor. In Romania, the elaboration of a methodology for radon measurements in schools is a necessity imposed both by the European legislation and by the relatively high percentage (about 10%) of the mapped territory with a potential increased risk of exposure to the action of ionizing radiation emitted by radon. In order to optimize the design of a national survey aimed to evaluate radon exposure of children in Romanian schools, we conducted a pilot study in two schools in Cluj-Napoca, following the screening measurements carried out in 109 schools and kindergartens from five counties. The specific steps that must be followed were described, taking into account the international protocols and particularities of Romanian territory. The proposed approach could act as a guide for other large buildings and is implicit for the implementation of National Radon Action Plan, approved by HG no. 526/12 July 2018 in accordance with Council Directive 2013/59/EURATOM. The obtained results indicate that a high probability of annual radon concentration above the national reference level is to be expected in schools.

scholarly journals A SHORT SUMMARY OF PAST AND RECENT ACTIVITIES ON PROTECTION FROM RADON EXPOSURE CARRIED OUT BY THE ITALIAN NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF HEALTH

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Marco Ampollini ◽  
Francesco Bochicchio ◽  
Sara Antignani ◽  
Barbara Caccia ◽  
Mario Caprio ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Action Plan ◽  
Public Information ◽  
Epidemiological Studies ◽  
Radon Exposure ◽  
Short Summary ◽  
Council Directive ◽  
Measuring Techniques ◽  
International Regulations ◽  
Passive Measurements ◽  
Italian National Institute

The Italian National Institute of Health (Istituto Superiore di Sanità ‒ ISS) has a long experience of activities concerning protection from radon exposure (measuring techniques, surveys in dwellings and other environments, public information, training courses, epidemiological studies and risk evaluation, etc.) with the first activities dating back to the eighties. On the basis of this expertise, the ISS has also contributed to radon policies and regulations, in particular to the development of the first Italian National Radon Action Plan (INRAP) in 2002 and its coordination in the following years, as well as to international regulations and recommendations. Many activities have been carried out with significant collaborations not only with Italian agencies and institutes, but also with some other countries as well as with international organizations (e.g. WHO). In this paper, a short summary of the past activities carried out by the ISS on several radon issues is presented. Moreover, some of the recent and current activities and projects are shortly described, taking into account the requirements of the Council Directive 2013/59/Euratom, including design of radon surveys, quality of both active and passive measurements, evaluation of actual public exposure, and cost-effectiveness evaluations.

scholarly journals Assessment of occupational exposure from radon in the newly formed underground tourist route under Książ castle, Poland

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lidia Fijałkowska-Lichwa ◽  
Tadeusz A. Przylibski
Keyword(s):  
Effective Dose ◽  
Dose Rate ◽  
Natural Ventilation ◽  
Reference Level ◽  
Construction Work ◽  
Radon Exposure ◽  
Council Directive ◽  
The Mean ◽  
Effective Dose Rate ◽  
Radon Concentrations

AbstractIn the present study, 222Rn activity concentrations in a newly formed underground tourist route under Książ castle, Poland, were investigated for periods undisturbed and disturbed by construction works. This preliminary assessment is based on the almost 3-year long continuous measurements (28 Oct. 2016–02 Jul. 2019) done with an SRDN-3 instrument. In detail described are radon concentrations for periods of renovation (11 Aug. 2018–10 Oct. 2018), opening (15 Oct. 2018–10 Apr. 2019) and operation and monitoring (11 Apr. 2019–02 Jul. 2019) of the facility. It was observed that after the termination of construction work, when natural ventilation returned to the state preceding this work, the absolute values of radon activity concentration decreased. The mean annual radon concentrations were higher than the reference level of radon concentration in underground spaces recommended by IAEA, ICRP, and by the EU Council Directive for workplaces. They reached 1179 Bq/m3 and 943 Bq/m3 in 2017 and 2018, respectively. Cyclically recurring daily changes in radon concentrations occurred only in April and October (so-called transitional periods) and only outside the period of construction work. The results confirmed; however, that these changes need not be considered when planning the work in the tunnel. The minimum effective dose rate from radon exposure occurs in colder periods of the year, from November to the end of March, where the mean effective dose rate value was found to be 0.0003 mSv/h. In contrast, the maximum dose rate of 0.014 mSv/h was observed from April to August.

scholarly journals Considerations in the provision of teleconsultations for outpatient obstetric anaesthesia care during the Covid-19 pandemic

2021 ◽  
pp. 201010582199117
Author(s):  
Leonard Wei Wen Loh ◽  
Yingke He ◽  
Hairil Rizal Abdullah ◽  
Kai Lee Ng ◽  
Un Sam Mok
Keyword(s):  
Intensive Care Unit ◽  
Intensive Care ◽  
Severe Illness ◽  
Continuing Care ◽  
Short Report ◽  
Obstetric Anaesthesia ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Process And Outcome ◽  
Risk Of Exposure ◽  
Anaesthesia Care

Evidence has emerged that pregnant women who contract coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) are at increased risk of certain forms of severe illness as well as complications requiring intensive care unit admission and resultant mortality. Teleconsultations can facilitate continuing care for obstetric patients during the Covid-19 pandemic while reducing their risk of exposure to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In this short report, we share our experience in the provision of teleconsultations for ambulatory obstetric anaesthesia patients in our high-risk obstetric anaesthesia clinic during the Covid-19 pandemic. Appropriate labour analgesia or anaesthesia plans were able to be formulated and communicated to the patients by teleconsultation, resulting in no delay or compromise in their peripartum care. Both patients and clinicians reported satisfaction with the teleconsultation process and outcome. The considerations and challenges in setting up a teleconsultation service as well as the factors in favour of teleconsultation are also explored.

scholarly journals Management of colorectal cancer in the era of COVID-19: Challenges and suggestions

2021 ◽  
Vol 104 (2) ◽  
pp. 003685042110106
Author(s):  
Walid Alam ◽  
Youssef Bouferraa ◽  
Yolla Haibe ◽  
Deborah Mukherji ◽  
Ali Shamseddine
Keyword(s):  
Colorectal Cancer ◽  
Treatment Protocols ◽  
Cancer Management ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Huge Impact ◽  
Treatment Plans ◽  
Virus Exposure ◽  
Risk Of Exposure ◽  
Colorectal Cancer Patients ◽  
The Impact

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic had a huge impact on all sectors around the world. In particular, the healthcare system has been subject to an enormous pressure that has surpassed its ability in many instances. Additionally, the pandemic has called for a review of our daily medical practices, including our approach to colorectal cancer management where treatment puts patients at high risk of virus exposure. Given their higher median age, patients are at an increased risk for severe symptoms and complications in cases of infection, especially in the setting of immunosuppression. Therefore, a review of the routine colorectal cancer practices is needed to minimize risk of exposure. Oncologists should weigh risk of exposure versus the patient’s oncologic benefits when approaching management. In addition, treatment protocols should be modified to minimize hospital visits and admissions while maintaining the same treatment efficacy. In this review, we will focus on challenges that colorectal cancer patients face during the pandemic, while highlighting the priority in each case. We will also discuss the evidence for potential modifications to existing treatment plans that could reduce infectious exposure without compromising care. Finally, we will discuss the impact of the socio-economic difficulties faced by Lebanese patients due to a poor economy toppled by an unexpected pandemic.

scholarly journals Plasma 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Levels and Fracture Risk in a Community-Based Cohort of Elderly Men in Sweden

2010 ◽  
Vol 95 (6) ◽  
pp. 2637-2645 ◽  
Author(s):  
Håkan Melhus ◽  
Greta Snellman ◽  
Rolf Gedeborg ◽  
Liisa Byberg ◽  
Lars Berglund ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Vitamin D ◽  
Uv Light ◽  
Winter Season ◽  
Community Dwelling ◽  
Reference Level ◽  
Blood Levels ◽  
Elderly Men ◽  
Hydroxyvitamin D ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
25 Hydroxyvitamin D

Abstract Context: Blood levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] is the generally accepted indicator of vitamin D status, but no universal reference level has been reached. Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the threshold at which low plasma 25(OH)D levels are associated with fractures in elderly men and clarify the importance of low levels on total fracture burden. Design and Participants: In the Uppsala Longitudinal Study of Adult Men, a population-based cohort (mean age, 71 yr, n = 1194), we examined the relationship between 25(OH)D and risk for fracture. Plasma 25(OH)D levels were measured with high-pressure liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Setting: The study was conducted in the municipality of Uppsala in Sweden, a country with a high fracture incidence. Main Outcome Measure: Time to fracture was measured. Results: During follow-up (median 11 yr), 309 of the participants (26%) sustained a fracture. 25(OH)D levels below 40 nmol/liter, which corresponded to the fifth percentile of 25(OH)D, were associated with a modestly increased risk for fracture, multivariable-adjusted hazard ratio 1.65 (95% confidence interval 1.09–2.49). No risk difference was detected above this level. Approximately 3% of the fractures were attributable to low 25(OH)D levels in this population. Conclusions: Vitamin D insufficiency is not a major cause of fractures in community-dwelling elderly men in Sweden. Despite the fact that cutaneous synthesis of previtamin D during the winter season is undetectable at this northern latitude of 60°, only one in 20 had 25(OH)D levels below 40 nmol/liter, the threshold at which the risk for fracture started to increase. Genetic adaptations to limited UV light may be an explanation for our findings.

Continuous Auscultation of Heart and Bilateral Breath Sounds

PEDIATRICS ◽  
1988 ◽  
Vol 81 (5) ◽  
pp. 745-746
Author(s):  
NATHAN SCHWARTZ ◽  
JAMES B. EISENKRAFT
Keyword(s):  
Heart Rate ◽  
Critically Ill ◽  
Vital Signs ◽  
Sleep Pattern ◽  
Monitoring Device ◽  
Challenging Problem ◽  
Breath Sounds ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Risk Of Exposure

To the Editor.— The frequent determination of vital signs, such as heart rate and bilateral breath sounds, is a mainstay in the care of critically ill infants. Unfortunately, the routine determination of such vital signs involves the manipulation and disturbance of the infant, unnecessary risk of exposure to cold, increased risk of apnea, and infection.1,2 In addition, the frequent disruption of the infant's sleep pattern may take an unaccountable physiologic and psychologic toll. To deal with this common and challenging problem we have devised a simple and inexpensive monitoring device, using readily available supplies, which facilitates the continuous or intermittent evaluation of heart rate and bilateral breath sounds.

scholarly journals Associations between clinical canine leishmaniosis and multiple vector-borne co-infections: a case-control serological study

2019 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Charalampos Attipa ◽  
Laia Solano-Gallego ◽  
Christian M. Leutenegger ◽  
Kostas Papasouliotis ◽  
Francesca Soutter ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Structural Equation ◽  
Case Control ◽  
Canine Leishmaniosis ◽  
Equation Modelling ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Healthy Control ◽  
Vector Borne ◽  
Risk Of Exposure ◽  
And Control ◽  
Antibody Tests

Abstract Background Dogs that have clinical leishmaniosis (ClinL), caused by the parasite Leishmania infantum, are commonly co-infected with other pathogens, especially vector-borne pathogens (VBP). A recent PCR-based study found that ClinL dogs are more likely to be additionally infected with the rickettsial bacteria Ehrlichia canis. Further information on co-infections in ClinL cases with VBP, as assessed by serology, is required. The research described in this report determined if dogs with ClinL are at higher risk of exposure to VBP than healthy control dogs using a case-control serology study. Results Of the 47 dogs with ClinL, anti-E. canis/ Ehrlichia ewingii antibodies were detected in 17 (36.2%), anti-Anaplasma phagocytophilum/Anaplasma platys antibodies in 5 (10.6%) and antigen for Dirofilaria immitis in 2 (4.3%). Of the 87 control dogs, anti-E. canis/E. ewingii antibodies were detected in 14 (16.1%) and anti-A. phagocytophilum/A. platys antibodies in 2 (2.3%). No anti-Borrelia burgdorferi antibody tests were positive. No statistical differences between the ClinL dogs and control dogs regarding lifestyle or use of ectoparasitic prevention, were identified. The ClinL was significantly associated with anti-E. canis/E. ewingii antibodies (odds ratio = 2.9, 95% confidence interval: 1.3–6.7, P = 0.010) compared to controls by both multivariable logistic regression and structural equation modelling. Conclusions It was demonstrated that an increased risk for E. canis/E. ewingii seropositivity is present in dogs with ClinL compared to clinically healthy control dogs, despite similar ectoparasitic prevention use and lifestyle. Based on these findings it is suggested that dogs with ClinL should not only be tested for E. canis co-infection using PCR but also serologically for E. canis/E. ewingii.

scholarly journals Indicator Organisms for Safety and Quality—Uses and Methods for Detection: Minireview

2003 ◽  
Vol 86 (6) ◽  
pp. 1208-1217 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mary L Tortorello
Keyword(s):  
Quality Indicators ◽  
Plate Count ◽  
Regulatory Agencies ◽  
Consumer Acceptability ◽  
Indicator Organisms ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Microbiological Testing ◽  
Risk Of Exposure ◽  
Aerobic Plate Count ◽  
Yeasts And Molds

Abstract Indicator organisms have been used for nearly a century to assess the microbiological status of water and foods. Beginning with their use in water sanitation programs, their applications have been extended over the years to other products, and they have become important components of the microbiological testing programs of both industry and regulatory agencies. Functionally, they may be viewed as safety or quality indicators. Safety indicators suggest the presence of conditions associated with increased risk of exposure to a pathogen. Quality indicators assess conditions of importance to product manufacture or consumer acceptability. This minireview summarizes the history, use, and analytical methods for the most commonly used indicator organisms, including the aerobic plate count, yeasts and molds, the coliform groups, Escherichia coli, Enterobacteriaceae, and Listeria.

The carcinogenic risk of exposure to sulphuric acid fumes from lead acid batteries

1994 ◽  
Vol 108 (10) ◽  
pp. 881-882 ◽  
Author(s):  
D. J. Houghton ◽  
P. S. White
Keyword(s):  
Sulphuric Acid ◽  
Laryngeal Carcinoma ◽  
Prolonged Exposure ◽  
Carcinogenic Risk ◽  
Truck Driver ◽  
Lead Acid Batteries ◽  
Potential Source ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Risk Of Exposure ◽  
Lead Acid

AbstractProlonged exposure to sulphuric acid fumes is associated with an increased risk of developing laryngeal carinoma. Lead acid batteries are a potential source of these fumes. We present a case of an electric fork lift truck driver who developed laryngeal carcinoma as a result of such exposure.

scholarly journals SPATIAL VARIABILITY OF INDOOR RADON CONCENTRATION IN SCHOOLS: IMPLICATIONS ON RADON MEASUREMENT PROTOCOLS

2020 ◽  
Vol 191 (2) ◽  
pp. 133-137
Author(s):  
Z Curguz ◽  
G Venoso ◽  
Z S Zunic ◽  
D Mirjanic ◽  
M Ampollini ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Spatial Variability ◽  
Radon Concentration ◽  
Indoor Radon ◽  
Reference Level ◽  
Indoor Radon Concentration ◽  
Radon Measurement ◽  
Ground Floor ◽  
Preliminary Study ◽  
The Republic ◽  
Radon Measurements

Abstract The requirements about radon measurements in schools and public buildings included in most of the national and international legislations are generally restricted to all the rooms located at the ground floor and basement, assuming the soil beneath the building as the main source of indoor radon. In order to verify such an assumption for small buildings having at maximum two floors, a preliminary study was performed in 50 schools located in 15 municipalities of the Republic of Srpska. Results of this study suggest that a protocol requiring measurements at the ground floor only may be considered adequate. Due to the high radon spatial variability for rooms at the ground floor, it is preferable to require measurements in a high number of rooms (preferably in all of them) in order to assess the compliance with the reference level established by the legislation.

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