Sunlight Exposure Research Articles

Evaluation of photocatalytic efficiency of TiO2 applied over cement plaster for mitigating urban air pollutant: TVOC

Photocatalysis emerged as a prominent method for mitigating air pollution stemming from emissions of total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) in both indoor and outdoor environments. Given the slow degradation rate of certain TVOCs, which pose health risks, including carcinogenicity, there is a pressing need for effective air purification strategies, particularly within built environments where individuals spend substantial amounts of time. This study delves into the efficacy of TiO2 photocatalysis in reducing air pollutants when applied to building surfaces. Cement mortar samples, incorporating varied doses of TiO2 ranging from 7.83E-03 g/cm2 to 4.92E-02 g/cm2, were prepared and examined within batch reactors, both under sunlight exposure and in the absence thereof, to gauge their degradation rates towards TVOCs. Furthermore, surface characterization techniques were employed to explicate the microstructural properties of TiO2-coated plastered samples. The results obtained demonstrated the variation in the rate of degradation from 1.09E-04±0.1 % to 3.1E-4 ± 1.13 % min−1cm−2 for various initial concentrations of total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) in the range of 600 ppm to 2900 ppm over a period of 100 min. The selected approach demonstrated the maximum degradation rate constant of 5.2E-04 min−1cm−2 corresponding to 15 % of TiO2 dose by weight of cement. These findings underscore the promise of TiO2 in purifying polluted air and advocate for its widespread implementation on building surfaces to enhance air quality.

Functional design of PGMA-co-PDFHM/Ti3C2Tx MXene composite materials for anti-icing in simulated outdoor environment

To improve anti-icing traits of outdoor coatings, a synergy between photothermal and hydrophobic anti-icings was utilized to fabricate copolymer/Ti3C2Tx MXene composite coatings with good transparency and adhesion. MXene contributes to photothermal trait from local surface plasmon resonance effect. Copolymer enables hydrophobicity from perfluoroalkyls-induced low surface energy and high surface roughness. An increase in MXene dose results in an increased surface roughness. With 140.0 ± 2.2° of water contact angle and 70% of light transmittance, the optimal film bears 2 wt% of MXene. High MXene dose results in large temperature-increase of film under sunlight. After 15 min of sunlight exposure, the temperature of optimal film surface in icing simulation increases from − 18 ℃ to 7.2 ℃. After 48 h of acid immersion, the temperature-increase of optimal film surface based on 300 s of sunlight irradiation reaches 28.7 ± 1.2 ℃. After 48 h of ultraviolet irradiation, the temperature-increase of optimal film surface is 30.7 ± 0.8 ℃. This surface has a water contact angle of 132.7 ± 1.1° after 48 h of acid immersion. This study gives impetus to a preparation of various composite coatings for outdoor anti-icing/deicing.

Geographical distribution of caudatoside and ptaquiloside in bracken ferns in Northern Europe

Bracken ferns (genus Pteridium) are among the most prevalent plants worldwide, with their distribution expanding due to their invasive nature. The environmental implications of their proliferation in areas affected by human activity, natural disasters, or land-use changes are concerning, primarily because of the carcinogenic illudane glycosides they produce. These compounds cause domestic and wildlife animal poisoning, as well as contamination of dairy products and drinking water. Several illudane glycosides are known, but usually only ptaquiloside (PTA) is monitored. This study investigates the spatial and temporal variations in illudane glycosides PTA, caudatoside (CAU) and ptesculentoside (PTE) across two phenotypes of Pteridium aquilinum (vars. aquilinum and latiusculum) over a broad geographic range spanning Denmark, Sweden, and Finland, encompassing 66 locations. We analysed different parts of the fern fronds (the tips and the lowest pinnae) using LC–MS and statistically explored the influence of phenotype, frond part, geographic location, sunlight exposure, and the surrounding ecosystem on glycoside content. Our findings reveal that PTA accounts for approximately two-thirds of the total illudane glycoside content, followed by CAU at nearly one-third, and a minor contribution from PTE. Glycoside levels were not influenced by phenotypic varieties or the studied environmental factors, but were significantly affected by geographic location. Specifically, CAU levels increased progressively towards the northeast, while PTA concentrations were highest in Denmark and markedly decreased in northeastern countries by over threefold, presumably due to climatic gradient. It has been further supported by temporal analysis in selected PTA-dominant regions indicating a reduction in PTA towards the end of the growing season, aligning its levels with those of CAU. Our study highlights that CAU concentrations in bracken ferns may equal or surpass PTA, contesting the prevailing view that PTA is the only notable illudane glycoside in Bracken. To provide unbiased assessment of the potential risks posed by P. aquilinum in the region, environmental and toxicological research should include measurements of not only PTA, but also CAU and, if possible, PTE.

Coffee Drying Tool with LQR-PID Control

Indonesia ranks as the third largest coffee bean producer globally due to its favorable climate for coffee cultivation and production. The drying process is one of the crucial stages in coffee bean processing as it significantly impacts the bean's quality. This study focuses on optimizing the drying process through the implementation of a sun tracking system mechanism. In essence, a sun tracking system is employed to maximize sunlight exposure by controlling the tray's position to constantly align with the sun's movement. The constructed system comprises both mechanical and electrical components. The control methods utilized in this system involve LQR and PID control. Experimental results will be analyzed to determine which controller yields the best performance.

Vitamin D status in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa

Background. There has been a growing interest in nutritional/lifestyle factors, including vitamin D, that may affect chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Most data are from Caucasian populations and temperate climates, with minimal African data. Objectives. The primary objective was to determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency (25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) ≤20 ng/mL) and insufficiency (25(OH)D 21 - 29 ng/mL) among patients with COPD. Secondary objectives were to investigate the association between vitamin D and demographic/lifestyle factors, lung function parameters, markers of COPD severity and corticosteroid use. Methods. A prospective, cross-sectional study of 76 patients with COPD was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa. Patients were interviewed regarding demographic/lifestyle factors, COPD severity markers and corticosteroid therapy. The most recent spirometry result was recorded. Blood samples were taken for measurement of calcium, alkaline phosphatase and vitamin D levels. Patients were stratified according to vitamin D status (deficiency and non-deficiency (25(OH)D >20 ng/mL, i.e. combined insufficiency and adequate levels)), and statistical analysis was performed to assess for associations. Results. The sample included 72% males and 63% black African patients. The prevalences of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency were 48% (95% confidence interval (CI) 42 - 54) and 35% (95% CI 30 - 41), respectively. A Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnoea score ≥2 was associated with a relative risk of 1.34 (95% CI 1.05 - 1.7) for vitamin D deficiency in univariate analysis. In multivariate regression analysis, only sunlight exposure (<1 hour/day) was an independent predictor of vitamin D deficiency (odds ratio 2.4; 95% CI 1.3 - 4.5). Conclusion. There was a high prevalence of suboptimal vitamin D levels in this COPD sample population. A higher mMRC score was associated with an increased risk of vitamin D deficiency, while low sunlight exposure was the only independent predictor of vitamin D deficiency.

The impact of minimal sunlight exposure on bone health: insights from a cohort study in erythropoietic protoporphyria.

Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is a rare inherited metabolic disease, causing lifelong painful phototoxic reactions, minimal sunlight exposure, and vitamin D deficiency. Previous studies reported a high osteoporosis prevalence in EPP patients. The objective is to identify those at risk for low bone mineral density (BMD) and assess which factors, including treatment with cholecalciferol and afamelanotide, improve BMD in EPP. A longitudinal ambispective single centre cohort study. Data from patient files and two-time questionnaires from adult patients with EPP who underwent at least one dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan between 2012 and 2023 were used. BMD is low in EPP patients, with 82.7% of the139 patients having a Z-score below 0 standard deviation (SD) at baseline. Low BMD classified as osteopenia was found in 39.5%, and osteoporosis in 15.3%. There were 50 osteoporosis-related fractures in 34.2% of patients. Aging (OR 1.08; CI: 1.03-1.12), persistent vitamin D deficiency (OR 1.11; 95% CI: 1.00-1.23) and a low body-mass index(OR 0.91; 95% CI: 0.82-0.99) increased the odds of low BMD. Patients with a vitamin D deficiency (OR 5.51; 95% CI: 1.69-17.92) and no cholecalciferol at baseline (OR 0.22; 95% CI: 0.04-1.34) had the highest odds of improving their BMD. Afamelanotide did not improve BMD. 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) status plays a crucial role in both preventing low BMD and improving BMD. EPP is a natural model for lack of sunlight exposure and vitamin D deficiency, underlining the importance of lifelong adequate vitamin D status for bone health in the general population.

Construction of Greenhouse for Horticultural Cultivation with Soil Media and Hydroponics

Theneral background greenhouse technology is increasingly recognized as an efficient solution for sustainable agricultural practices, especially in regions with limited fertile land. Specific background In Kedungpeluk Village, where the majority of residents work as fish farmers, there are also unused and arid lands. These underutilized spaces provide an opportunity for greenhouse-based horticultural cultivation using soil media and hydroponic technology. Knowledge gap however, limited knowledge and infrastructure have prevented local farmers from effectively utilizing these lands for sustainable crop production. Aims this community engagement project aims to build and utilize a greenhouse system to cultivate horticultural plants, focusing on optimizing both soil and hydroponic methods. Results the project successfully transformed barren land into productive greenhouses that facilitate the growth of tomatoes, chilies, eggplants, pak choy, and water spinach. The greenhouse structure, designed with transparent roofing, enhances sunlight exposure, promoting optimal plant growth. Both soil and hydroponic methods showed potential for increasing crop yields, with soil cultivation being more flexible but requiring extra care for pests, while hydroponics provided faster results with minimal weed and pest interference. Novelty this project introduces a dual-method approach combining traditional soil cultivation with modern hydroponic technology in a controlled greenhouse environment. Implications the findings highlight that greenhouse farming is a viable, modern agricultural solution for rural communities, offering increased productivity and quality crops, while also addressing the challenges of limited fertile land and changing climate conditions. This project serves as a model for sustainable agriculture in similar settings. Highlights: Dual-method approach: Combining soil and hydroponic techniques in a greenhouse. Efficient land use: Transforming unused arid land for productive horticulture. Controlled environment: Optimizing plant growth through sunlight, temperature, and humidity control. Keywords: Greenhouse, Horticulture, Soil Media, Hydroponics, Sustainable Agriculture

How long do bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses retain their replication capacity on inanimate surfaces? A systematic review examining environmental resilience versus healthcare-associated infection risk by "fomite-borne risk assessment".

SUMMARYIn healthcare settings, contaminated surfaces play an important role in the transmission of nosocomial pathogens potentially resulting in healthcare-associated infections (HAI). Pathogens can be transmitted directly from frequent hand-touch surfaces close to patients or indirectly by staff and visitors. HAI risk depends on exposure, extent of contamination, infectious dose (ID), virulence, hygiene practices, and patient vulnerability. This review attempts to close a gap in previous reviews on persistence/tenacity by only including articles (n = 171) providing quantitative data on re-cultivable pathogens from fomites for a better translation into clinical settings. We have therefore introduced the new term "replication capacity" (RC). The RC is affected by the degree of contamination, surface material, temperature, relative humidity, protein load, organic soil, UV-light (sunlight) exposure, and pH value. In general, investigations into surface RC are mainly performed in vitro using reference strains with high inocula. In vitro data from studies on 14 Gram-positive, 26 Gram-negative bacteria, 18 fungi, 4 protozoa, and 37 viruses. It should be regarded as a worst-case scenario indicating the upper bounds of risks when using such data for clinical decision-making. Information on RC after surface contamination could be seen as an opportunity to choose the most appropriate infection prevention and control (IPC) strategies. To help with decision-making, pathogens characterized by an increased nosocomial risk for transmission from inanimate surfaces ("fomite-borne") are presented and discussed in this systematic review. Thus, the review offers a theoretical basis to support local risk assessments and IPC recommendations.

Observations from opening of a novel geotextile tube connection in field test site

A novel connection configuration for geotextile tubes was proposed, involving the insertion of an auxiliary tube between two main tubes, to ensure proper alignment and leveling when connecting them in a series, thus consolidating individual tubes into a unified structure while maintaining a consistent horizontal level. The novel connection was implemented at a test bed site in the Saemangeum reclaimed area, South Korea, to test exposure to the marine environment including sea waves, sun light exposure and reclamation process. This study presents the observations made upon opening the connection tube after 8 years. The observation shows that the connected geotextile tubes using the proposed auxiliary tube are suitable for use in long-term reclamation projects.

Sunlight Resurgence in the COVID-19 Era: A Review on Health-risk Dualities via Ayurveda and Conventional Science Perspectives

With the advent of COVID-19, numerous scientific studies from different parts of the world emerged, documenting the beneficial effects of sunlight on decreasing transmittance, morbidity, and mortality due to COVID-19. Research also highlighted the beneficial effects of sunlight in terms of antimicrobial, antiviral effects, and vitamin D production and its role in improving immunity and decreasing mortality due to COVID-19. Along with this, also resurfaced the debate on the hype of the above-mentioned and other positive attributes and the negative attributes of sunlight in terms of causing skin cancer and aggravation of certain other disease conditions. This article revisits the scientific and historical evidence in the context of sunlight and presents an interdisciplinary, integrative perspective, including Ayurveda and conventional science, for the evaluation of the advantages and disadvantages and contemplation regarding the application of sunlight exposure in health care.

6967 Simple Prediction Model for Vitamin D Deficiency in Women with Osteoporosis or Risk Factors for Osteoporosis

Abstract Disclosure: T. Mullikapipat: None. N. Dumrongwongsuwinai: None. O. Vallibhakara: None. S. Rattanasiri: None. S. Vallibhakara: None. W. Wajanavisit: None. B. Ongphiphadhanakul: None. H. Nimitphong: None. Background: People at high risk of vitamin D deficiency, such as those at risk of osteoporosis, should have their 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels assessed. The availability and cost of 25(OH)D measurement in Thailand are both restricted. The objective of this study was to create a model for predicting vitamin D deficiency in women with osteoporosis or risk factors for osteoporosis. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of women with or at risk of osteoporosis who visited Ramathibodi Hospital's outpatient clinics (medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, and orthopedic) between August 2016 and August 2019. All participants were assessed their 25(OH)D using a chemiluminescent assay (Liaison, DiaSorin Inc.; Stillwater, MN). Each participant completed a questionnaire to determine vitamin D intake through supplementation and sun exposure, as well as the existence of factors impacting vitamin D status. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as 25(OH)D levels less than 30 ng/mL. Logistic regression analyses were used to examine the predictors of vitamin D deficiency. In the vitamin D deficiency prediction model, odds ratios (OR) were converted into simple scores. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of the different cutoffs in the total risk score were calculated and used to establish the optimum cutoff for those at high risk of vitamin D deficiency. Internal validation on this model was carried out using a bootstrap resampling method of 1000. Results: Sixty percent of participants had vitamin D deficiency. The final model (n=488) for the prediction of vitamin D deficiency consisted of BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 [OR 1.15, 95% confidence interval(CI) 0.99-2.30), no exercise (OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.02-2.49), exercise 1-2 times/week (OR 1.40, 95% CI 0.79-2.46), sunlight exposure < 15 minutes/day (OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.04-2.78), no vitamin D supplementation (OR 8.76, 95% CI 5.02-15.28), and vitamin D supplementation ≤ 20,000 IU/day (OR 2.31, 95% CI 1.34-3.96). The area under the curve was 0.747. At a cutoff of 6.6 in total risk score (range 4-13.6), the model predicted vitamin D deficiency with a sensitivity of 71.9 and a specificity of 65.3. The internal validation by Bootstrap revealed a ROC of 0.752 (95%CI 0.751-0.754). Conclusions: In women at risk of osteoporosis, a simple questionnaire can uncover variables related to vitamin D deficiency. The risk score might be used in clinical practice to identify individuals who could benefit from vitamin D supplementation without requiring 25(OH)D levels to be measured. However, external validation in a different cohort is required before implementation. Presentation: 6/2/2024

Evaluating Annual Sun Exposure in LEED v4 for Commercial Office Buildings: Inclusion of Annual Glare to Enhance the Occupant Visual Performance and Comfort

ABSTRACT LEED is one of the most widely adopted building benchmarks globally, and it encompasses multiple rating criteria for performance. However, such criteria typically focus on reducing energy consumption and may disregard providing a high level of occupant satisfaction. LEED focuses on a desk height evaluation of Spatial Daylight Autonomy and Annual Sunlight Exposure to predict the daylight availability and probability of glare, respectively, which may disregard an occupant’s visual comfort at eye level. This paper proposes a more comprehensive approach to daylighting performance evaluation in a commercial office space that incorporates Annual Glare – vertical-eye level glare evaluation, in addition to Spatial Daylight Autonomy and Annual Sunlight Exposure. A comparison between Annual Sunlight Exposure and Annual Glare is established to understand the criteria missing in LEED that evaluates discomfort glare and improves the visual performance and comfort of the occupants significantly.

Inadequate Sunlight Exposure as A Risk Factor for Nutritional Rickets: A Systematic Review

Insufficient sunlight exposure significantly contributes to the development of nutritional rickets, highlighting the critical importance of sunlight in maintaining optimal bone health and preventing this debilitating condition. Nutritional rickets, a preventable skeletal disorder, has significant implications for child health and development, particularly where there is limited sunlight exposure. Adequate sunlight exposure, especially in the form of ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation, is essential for synthesizing and maintaining optimal vitamin D levels, which are key in preventing nutritional rickets. This systematic review aims to comprehensively analyze the relationship between inadequate sunlight exposure and the development of nutritional rickets among children. The review could inform effective preventive strategies by identifying the precise levels of sunlight exposure needed for healthy development and the factors contributing to inadequate exposure. Literature was searched through Google scholar, PubMed (Medline), Cochrane, and Elsevier using the following key terms; Nutritional rickets, Sunlight exposure, and vitamin D deficiency. Only peer-reviewed articles and research theses were included. Additionally, only literature reporting on nutritional rickets as a result of inadequate sunlight exposure practices were included. A total of 9 papers were included in the review. Findings such as Limited Sunlight Exposure with factors such as closed housing environments, urbanization, and cultural practices contributing to this phenomenon, Misconceptions and Fear regarding potential harms associated with sunlight exposure, such as skin cancer, sterility, and blindness, Disparities in Knowledge and Practices about sunlight exposure, Environmental Influences such as housing conditions and access to outdoor spaces significantly influence sunlight exposure opportunities for children. Interventions aimed at enhancing sunlight accessibility and creating sun-safe environments are crucial for optimizing exposure and preventing rickets. Comprehensive strategies are necessary to address sunlight exposure practices' complexities, including education, cultural sensitivity, policy reforms, and environmental modifications. Integrating these interventions is essential for promoting optimal sunlight exposure and improving child health outcomes.

Study of the driving factors of the abnormal influenza A (H3N2) epidemic in 2022 and early predictions in Xiamen, China

BackgroundInfluenza outbreaks have occurred frequently these years, especially in the summer of 2022 when the number of influenza cases in southern provinces of China increased abnormally. However, the exact evidence of the driving factors involved in the prodrome period is unclear, posing great difficulties for early and accurate prediction in practical work.MethodsIn order to avoid the serious interference of strict prevention and control measures on the analysis of influenza influencing factors during the COVID-19 epidemic period, only the impact of meteorological and air quality factors on influenza A (H3N2) in Xiamen during the non coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) period (2013/01/01-202/01/24) was analyzed using the distribution lag non-linear model. Phylogenetic analysis of influenza A (H3N2) during 2013–2022 was also performed. Influenza A (H3N2) was predicted through a random forest and long short-term memory (RF-LSTM) model via actual and forecasted meteorological and influenza A (H3N2) values.ResultsTwenty nine thousand four hundred thirty five influenza cases were reported in 2022, accounting for 58.54% of the total cases during 2013–2022. A (H3N2) dominated the 2022 summer epidemic season, accounting for 95.60%. The influenza cases in the summer of 2022 accounted for 83.72% of the year and 49.02% of all influenza reported from 2013 to 2022. Among them, the A (H3N2) cases in the summer of 2022 accounted for 83.90% of all A (H3N2) reported from 2013 to 2022. Daily precipitation(20–50 mm), relative humidity (70–78%), low (≤ 3 h) and high (≥ 7 h) sunshine duration, air temperature (≤ 21 °C) and O3 concentration (≤ 30 µg/m3, > 85 µg/m3) had significant cumulative effects on influenza A (H3N2) during the non-COVID-19 period. The daily values of PRE, RHU, SSD, and TEM in the prodrome period of the abnormal influenza A (H3N2) epidemic (19–22 weeks) in the summer of 2022 were significantly different from the average values of the same period from 2013 to 2019 (P < 0.05). The minimum RHU value was 70.5%, the lowest TEM value was 16.0 °C, and there was no sunlight exposure for 9 consecutive days. The highest O3 concentration reached 164 µg/m3. The range of these factors were consistent with the risk factor range of A (H3N2). The common influenza A (H3N2) variant genotype in 2022 was 3 C.2a1b.2a.1a. It was more accurate to predict influenza A (H3N2) with meteorological forecast values than with actual values only.ConclusionThe extreme weather conditions of sustained low temperature and wet rain may have been important driving factors for the abnormal influenza A (H3N2) epidemic. A low vaccination rate, new mutated strains, and insufficient immune barriers formed by natural infections may have exacerbated this epidemic. Meteorological forecast values can aid in the early prediction of influenza outbreaks. This study can help relevant departments prepare for influenza outbreaks during extreme weather, provide a scientific basis for prevention strategies and risk warnings, better adapt to climate change, and improve public health.

Sunlight exposure conditions for buildings in European localities

Sunlight exposure represents one of key parameters of indoor climate comfort, especially for residential buildings, schools and care homes. It depends on the sunlight time in specific design situations like a locality, building type, window size, position and orientation. A practical evaluation of sunlight access into buildings is based on a standard methodology in EN 17037. The methodology based on parameters of minimum solar altitude is specified for given geographical locality and time of the sunlight exposure evaluation. The aim of this study is to compare how the sunlight exposure is changed in European regions. The evaluation is based on the standard limitations to specify potentials for the building insolation assessments in different geographical localities. Research value of the study deals with the general overview of the sunlight potential of building insolation in different European climatic regions. It can be important for building design and urban planning process in those localities. The research is focused on determining the minimum solar altitude for 33 capitals and for all days from 1st February to 21st March specified by the standard to ensure the required minimum insolation time.

Fabrication of cobalt oxide nanosheets using Withania somnifera root extract for degradation of organic pollutants

In today’s scenario, material science emerges as pivotal players, as it is an emerging and fast-growing interdisciplinary field. Nanomaterials are increasingly popular among researchers due to their unique physicochemical properties and multifaceted applications. Recently, researchers are exploring more sustainable approaches for the synthesis of nanomaterials due to its numerous advantages. In this context, present investigation reports an approach for the synthesis of cobalt oxide nanosheets (Co3O4 NSs). This approach leverages environmentally friendly and sustainable methods, minimizing the use of hazardous chemicals and reducing energy consumption. Hence it involved Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) root extract as a greener reductant as well as stabilizing agent. The synthesized Co3O4 NSs were thoroughly analyzed using various techniques, including ultraviolet-visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy, fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), powder x-ray diffraction (PXRD), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). A sharp absorption peak at 252 nm with a tail towards higher wavelength reveal the formation of Co3O4 NSs. The diffraction pattern reveals a face centered cubic structure of Co3O4 NSs. Morphological studies confirmed the substantial surface area of Co3O4 NSs which enable us to perform the catalytic degradation of azo dye, i.e., methyl orange. It provides that 10 mg of Co3O4 NSs is sufficient to degrade a 10 ppm aqueous methyl orange solution by 75.82 % in the dark and by 96.12 % under sunlight exposure. Thus, this study offers an excellent pathway for the synthesis of Co3O4 NSs and demonstrates their potential as a promising material for future catalytic applications.

The Impact of Family Relationship on Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) Concentrations in Individuals Residing in Pune, India.

An understanding of the influence of family relationship on vitamin D concentrations could be useful in designing community-based strategies to improve vitamin D status. Hence, the aim of this study was to explore if family relationship had an impact on total serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) concentrations of individuals living in Pune, India. This cross-sectional study included 104 families. Data collected included anthropometry (height and weight), body composition (bioelectric impedance), sunlight exposure (validated questionnaire), and blood samples for estimation of serum 25OHD2 and 25OHD3 by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method. Total serum 25OHD was computed as the sum of the serum 25OHD2 and 25OHD3 concentrations. Linear mixed model analysis was employed to assess the impact of family on serum 25OHD2 and total 25OHD concentrations. The strength of the family-level component was assessed by calculating the intra-family correlation for each model separately for children and adults. More than half (63%) of the participants of the participants (235 adults, 118 children) had poor daily sunlight exposure (< 30 minutes). Around one-third, both adults and children, were found to be vitamin D deficient. Intra-family correlation was found to be higher in children than in adults for serum 25OHD2 (0.6 vs 0.4) and total serum 25OHD (0.5 vs 0.1) concentrations. Our findings indicate that the likelihood of having similar vitamin D concentrations is higher among children as compared to adults in a family. This suggests a role played by genetic factors or possibly shared habits among children in a family, thus resulting in stronger correlations. This can facilitate the adoption of early preventive measures for treatment or prevention of vitamin D deficiency, even if one child among siblings is vitamin D insufficient.

Quantitative analysis of the impact of seasonal cyclicality on serum 25-hydroxycholecalciferol concentration in Northwest Arctic

Background: 25-hydroxycholecalciferol also known as 25-hydroxyvitamin D plays a vital role in numerous physiological functions within the human body, and its deficiency is associated with conditions such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune disorders, and certain cancers. In Alaska, sunlight exposure is a critical factor that influences vitamin D levels in the population. Methods: This study involved a review of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels from January 2014 to June 2018 for Alaska residents, including individuals aged 18 years or older who were permanent residents of the area. The exclusion criteria comprised acute or chronic liver or kidney dysfunction, anemia, cancer history, absorption deficiency, and vitamin D supplementation exceeding 500 IU/day within 90 days before the blood draw. Results: A total of 304 participants, including 107 males (35.2%) and 197 females (64.8%), with a mean age of 50.88, were included. The overall mean serum level of 25(OH)D was 22.7 ± 9.89 ng/mL. Females exhibited a higher mean level (23.40 ± 10.24 ng/mL) than males (21.03 ± 9.05 ng/mL) (P &lt;0.05). Participants older than 60 years had a higher average level of 25(OH)D (26.52 ± 10.28 ng/mL) compared to those younger than 45 years (19.85 ± 9.27 ng/mL) (P &lt; 0.05). Seasonal variations were observed, with levels below 20.0 ng/mL from October to March, below 30.0 ng/mL from April to May (insufficient), and slightly above 30.0 ng/mL (desirable) from June to August (P &lt; 0.0001). No significant intercommunity differences were found. Only 24.3% of the participants had a desirable vitamin D level. The association between the 25(OH)D level and the solar zenith angle was linear and markedly negative (r = −0.924; P &lt; 0.0001). Conclusions: This study demonstrates seasonal variations in 25(OH)D serum levels among the Alaska population. Further exploration of factors such as skin pigmentation, daily vitamin D intake, and body mass index is necessary to comprehensively understand the variation in 25(OH)D serum levels in this region.

Drug-induced photosensitivity associated with anticancer therapies.

Despite the promising results in terms of effectiveness of anticancer treatments, a wide range of dermatologic adverse reactions have been reported. Among them, skin photosensitivity, defined as a range of dermatologic conditions caused or exacerbated by sunlight exposure, is an emerging adverse event. A review of the current literature was performed to report the most characteristic phototoxic and photoallergic reactions associated with anticancer therapies, as well as other characteristic manifestations potentially related to photo-exposure, including UV recall, vitiligo-like reactions, drug-induced cutaneous lupus erythematosus, and UV-induced hyperpigmentation. A total of 30 manuscripts were collected in the present review, reporting several phototoxic and photoallergic reactions associated with anticancer therapies. Photosensitivity reactions are an increasing challenge in cancer management. The raising awareness about this adverse event has increased the identification of potential photosensitizing drugs as well as its prevention and the management. However, more studies are required to improve the knowledge of this cutaneous toxicity and to define a personalized treatment strategy.

The Role of Season, Sunlight, and Light Sensitivity in Self-Reported Depressive Symptoms by Adults With Visual Impairment.

Depression is common in people with visual impairment, and the onset may be influenced by aspects related to light. The aim was to explore the associations of season, sunlight, and light sensitivity with depressive symptoms in this population. Data regarding self-reported depressive symptoms from seven cross-sectional studies conducted between 2009 and 2018 were combined with information concerning sensitivity to light, season on the date of self-report, and potential sunlight exposure in the 2 weeks prior to self-report. The latter was calculated by summing up the daily sunlight hours detected by the weather station nearest to the residence of each participant. Logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate the associations. Participants (N = 1925) experienced clinically significant depressive symptoms most often in winter (32.8%), followed by summer (27.4%), spring (26.2%), and fall (24.2%). The odds of experiencing depression in fall were significantly lower compared with winter (odds ratio [OR] = 0.67, P = 0.007). An increase in the hours of sunlight in the participant's environment was associated with lower odds to experience depressive symptoms (OR = 0.995, P = 0.011). People who were sensitive to bright light had higher odds of experiencing depressive symptoms (OR = 1.80, P < 0.001). Other differences found between subgroups were not consistent. It seems likely that season, sunlight, and light sensitivity play a role in depression among people with visual impairment. Further research is needed, exploring the experiences in this population, the actual sunlight exposure using objective measures, and treatment options. Clinicians should consider these factors when treating visually impaired patients with depressive symptoms.