Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology4020012

Authors: Hsuan-Yu Chen Chiachung Chen

Aerobiology, the science that studies atmospheric biological particles (including pollen, fungal spores, bacteria, and viruses), has undergone a profound transformation from a descriptive, observational discipline into a predictive, data-driven field, thanks to advances in statistical methods and environmental sensing technologies. Early research, based on classical statistical methods such as descriptive analysis, correlation analysis, and linear regression, established a fundamental understanding of seasonal dynamics and environmental relationships. However, the inherent complexity of aerosol biological systems—characterized by nonlinear interactions, spatiotemporal variability, and multiscale processes—has spurred the adoption of modern statistical techniques. These techniques include time-series analysis, generalized linear and additive models, spatial statistics, Bayesian inference, machine learning, and data assimilation, often combined with high-resolution environmental monitoring and sensor networks. In recent years, hybrid modeling approaches have emerged, combining mechanistic understanding of atmospheric transport and biological emissions processes with data-driven learning to improve the accuracy, robustness, and interpretability of predictions. This review comprehensively compares classical, modern, and hybrid statistical methods in air biology, exploring their theoretical foundations, practical applications, and inherent limitations. Furthermore, this review highlights emerging paradigms such as uncertainty quantification, causal inference, digital twins, and AI-driven real-time prediction systems. It also discusses challenges, including data heterogeneity, model interpretability, and cross-regional portability. By treating aerobiology as a complex adaptive environmental–biological system, this study highlights statistical methods that link observations to mechanisms and advance scalable, reliable, systems-oriented prediction frameworks for future research and applications.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology4020011

Authors: Tayyaba Afzal Roshaan Ahmed

Spinacia oleracea L. cultivation in South Asia is severely compromised by leaf spot disease caused by fungal plant pathogens, resulting in significant yield and quality losses. In this study, we report the first molecularly confirmed case of an Alternaria burnsii leaf spot on S. oleracea in Pakistan. Symptomatic S. oleracea leaves exhibiting necrotic lesions with concentric rings were collected during a field survey across Bahawalpur district, Punjab, Pakistan in 2024. After isolation, purification and morphological identification it was identified that it belongs to the Alternaria genus. For the confirmation of species, molecular identification was performed; using the ITS and GAPDH primer revealed that the fungal plant pathogen causing leaf spot of S. oleracea is A. burnsii which was also confirmed by phylogenetic analysis. Koch’s postulates were carried out to confirm pathogenicity on detached leaf assays. To assess the virulence of A. burnsii enzymatic analysis was performed. Notably, enzymatic virulence profiling demonstrated a markedly increased production of polygalacturonase (PG: 16.0 ± 0.8 AU), pectin lyase (PNL: 12.0 ± 0.6 AU) and cellulase (CL: 14.0 ± 0.7 AU) relative to controls (all p < 0.001; LSD = 0.16), with PG having the greatest relative increase. This report expands the known host range for A. burnsii and highlights its two-fold threat: as a bioaerosol disseminable by wind and an enzymatic pathogen. These findings highlight the urgent need for integrated disease management strategies for suppressing leaf spot disease in S. oleracea agroecosystems.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology4020010

Authors: Muyideen Olumide Akasoro Margaret Adebisi Sowunmi Peter Adegbenga Adeonipekun

The study of airborne pollen and spores in regions, communities, and campuses has gained importance in Nigeria in recent times. Aerospora sampling was carried out from November 2012 to February 2013 on the University of Ibadan campus Watch Tower. The Tower is the tallest building on campus, standing at 35 m. An Aero sampler was used to collect aeropalynomorphs monthly at the site. The recovered residues were acetolysed and studied microscopically. Meteorological data for this location were obtained from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) for the prevailing weather conditions. Statistical analysis using the Pearson Correlation Coefficient was used to evaluate the relationship between airborne pollen and spores and meteorological parameters. A variety of palynomorphs, characteristic of rainforest, secondary/open forest, savanna, and freshwater vegetation types, were recovered. The dominant ones belonged to the Arecaceae, Anacardiaceae, Amaranthaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Moraceae, and Poaceae families, as well as fungal spores. Pollen counts with meteorological data revealed variations in palynomorph types and concentrations that reflected the influence of the aerosampler location, weather parameters, and the degree of human activities on the floral composition. This work is the first aero-sampling on the University of Ibadan campus and a contribution to the aeropalynological data of campuses across Southwest Nigeria.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology4020009

Authors: Joana Coelho Maria Lages Natacha Santos Maria João Paes Filipa Ribeiro Maria Antónia São Braz

Exposure to airborne pollen allergens is a major trigger of respiratory allergy, whose prevalence continues to rise throughout Europe. In southern Portugal, the Mediterranean climate and extensive vegetation diversity promote high pollen loads, particularly from the Amaranthaceae family. This retrospective observational study aimed to characterise the sensitisation profiles of patients with positive skin prick tests (SPTs) to Chenopodium album and/or Salsola kali, the dominant Amaranthaceae species in the region. Data from 346 patients were analysed, including demographic and clinical characteristics, SPT results, and specific IgE sensitisation to molecular allergens. Of these, 35% were positive for C. album only, 13% for S. kali only, and 51% for both. In molecular testing, 54% of S. kali-sensitised patients were positive to Sal k 1, whereas only 4% of C. album-sensitised patients were positive to Che a 1. Sensitisation to panallergens such as profilins and Ole e 1-like proteins was frequent, suggesting extensive IgE cross-reactivity between these taxa. A significant correlation in wheal size (r = 0.53, p < 0.0001) further supports shared allergenic determinants. Despite higher SPT positivity to C. album, S. kali is likely the predominant sensitising source in this population. These findings highlight the importance of molecular-based diagnostics to distinguish genuine sensitisation from cross-reactivity in Mediterranean settings.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology4020008

Authors: Guillermo Guidos-Fogelbach Andrea Aida Velasco Medina Iván Chérrez-Ojeda Oscar Calderón Llosa Itzel Yoselin Sánchez Pérez Guillermo Velázquez Sámano Dan Dalan Marilyn Urrutia Pereira Dirceu Sole

Aeropalynology, the monitoring and interpretation of airborne pollen, has become increasingly relevant in Latin America as allergic rhinitis and asthma rise alongside rapid urbanization, land-use change, and climate variability. Yet the region’s capacity remains heterogeneous: long-standing traditions in the Southern Cone coexist with emerging programs in tropical and Andean settings, and many series are not translated into standardized products useful for clinical care or public health. We conducted a structured literature review guided by PRISMA 2020 to synthesize the historical evolution, current monitoring infrastructure, dominant pollen taxa, and translational outputs reported across Latin American countries. Evidence indicates that Mexico currently represents the most mature aeropalynological ecosystem in the region, supported by multi-site monitoring, open weekly reporting (REMA), multiple city-level pollen calendars, and emerging computational approaches for pollen identification. Across countries, recurrent high-impact taxa include Cupressaceae, Fraxinus, Platanus, Olea, Poaceae, Urticaceae, Amaranthaceae, Rumex, Ambrosia, and Parietaria, with local dominance shaped by biogeography and urban vegetation. Key gaps include limited long-term continuity outside a few cities, variable methodology (sampler type, taxonomic resolution, units, thresholds), and scarce linkage of pollen exposure metrics with clinical outcomes. Future priorities include harmonized volumetric monitoring, interoperable data standards, routine publication of pollen calendars and thresholds, integration with meteorology for forecasting, and expansion of digital decision-support tools to improve prevention and management of allergic respiratory diseases in Latin America.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology4020007

Authors: Gehan Moubarz Atef M. F. Mohammed Inas A. Saleh Amal Saad-Hussein Heba Mahdy-Abdallah

This study estimates the association between respiratory outcomes among employees of a secondary aluminum plant and airborne pollutants. Additionally, it looks into the relationship between pulmonary dysfunction in workers and X-Ray repair cross-complementing one (XRCC1) gene polymorphisms. 110 exposed workers and 58 non-exposed workers were enrolled in the study. Measurements were conducted on sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and particulate particles. Pulmonary function was tested. Eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), C-reactive protein (CRP), matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), interleukin 6 (IL6), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), XRCC1 protein, and genotyping of XRCC1 gene polymorphisms were examined. The annual average concentrations of particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), total suspended particulates (TSP), SO2, and NO2 were lower than the permissible limit. The areas around ovens, evaporators, and cold rolling mills exhibited the highest amounts. The majority of employees in these departments had impaired lung function. Prolonged exposure was associated with a significant decrease in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1%) and forced vital capacity (FVC%) among the exposed group (p = 0.001 & 0.04, respectively). Serum XRCC1 levels were significantly higher among exposed workers (p = 0.02). Inflammatory biomarkers showed no statistically significant differences between groups. Aluminum workers are at risk of developing respiratory disorders. The level of serum XRCC1 may serve as a potential biomarker for detecting susceptible workers.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology4010006

Authors: Kenji Miki

Understanding the dynamics of atmospheric ions, the carriers of electrons and ions in the global electric circuit (GEC), is necessary to fully understand Earth’s atmospheric electricity. Because atmospheric ions are too small to be influenced by gravity, the gravitational settling of aerosol particle in fair weather has not been considered as a driving force in the GEC model. However, the attachment of these particles to other coarse particles can cause them to move in gravity’s direction. In this study, the influence of the gravitational settling of various bioaerosol particles with electrostatic force on the GEC is calculated. The results show the importance of considering bioaerosol particles in the GEC model, and that pollen grains can carry the order of 0.1% of ions and electrons carried by atmospheric ions due to their weight and charging efficiencies. Also, the reduction in atmospheric conductivity in the presence of bioaerosol particles was calculated. Bioaerosol particles can reduce atmospheric conductivity by an order of 0.01% due to pollen and by an order of 0.1% due to microbes.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology4010005

Authors: Anuupama Suchiita Subash Chandra Sonkar Aakansha Suchitta

The escalating threats of zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), climate change, and environmental degradation have intensified the need for a unified health approach. One Health—integrating human, animal, and environmental health—is critical for national and global health security. India, with its high population density, biodiversity, and socio-ecological complexity, stands poised to lead in operationalizing this integrated vision. This review analyzes India’s evolving One Health ecosystem, focusing on policy development, inter-ministerial collaborations, surveillance systems, grassroots implementation, and education. Institutions like the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and Department of Biotechnology (DBT) are discussed. We propose a strategic blueprint built on integrated surveillance (One Network), cross-sectoral governance (One Nation), and field-level implementation (One Health). Highlighting successful case studies and India’s role in global platforms, the article presents a roadmap to bridge fragmented efforts into a resilient, community-driven national mission to protect human, animal, and environmental health.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology4010004

Authors: Merita Xhetani Brikena Parllaku Fjoralda Bakiri Arta Lugaj Etleva Hamzaraj Mirela Lika Antea Metaliaj Vera Beca Bationa Bennewitz

Staphylococcus aureus is a common opportunistic pathogen found in various environments, with the potential for rapid spread, especially in densely populated indoor settings. Integrating traditional microbiological monitoring with molecular techniques is critical for the timely detection and control of such pathogens. The aim of this study was (1) to monitor the presence and spread of S. aureus in a crowded occupational environment and (2) to optimize a PCR protocol with sequence specific primers (PCR-SSP) for precise identification and early detection of this microorganism and its antibiotic resistance genes. Sampling was conducted in two different places: a call center and a healthcare facility room. All samples were collected from indoor areas at two different time points (T0 and T1) in May 2025 (mean temperature: 22.5 °C; humidity: 59.5%). Microbiological techniques and molecular analysis using PCR-SSP were employed to confirm the presence of S. aureus and detect antibiotic resistance genes such as mecA. A total CFU (colony-forming unit) count of 587 was recorded at the dental clinic corridor, and a total CFU count of 2008 was recorded at the call center corridor. PCR-SSP successfully confirmed the identity of S. aureus with an amplicon size 267 bp and enabled the detection of antibiotic resistance markers, validating its use as a complementary method to traditional microbiological techniques. This study highlights the importance of combining environmental monitoring with molecular biology tools to enhance the early detection and accurate identification of microbial pathogens such as S. aureus and provide an insight for our future direction of producing biosensors for digital air monitoring in crowded workplaces.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology4010003

Authors: Tanmoy Basak Rajarshi Pradhan Amrita Mallik Abhigyan Roy

Aeromycoflora present in the library environment is known to play a significant role in triggering allergies and contributing to the deterioration of both cellulosic and non-cellulosic materials within the intramural setting of the Midnapore College Library. Fungal spores not only accelerate the aging and degradation of books but also pose considerable health risks to students, library visitors, and staff. In total, 480 fungal colonies belonging to 15 genera and 28 species were recorded using the culture plate exposure method. The predominant taxa included Aspergillus/Penicillium, Alternaria alternata, Alternaria solani, Cladosporium cladosporioides, Curvularia lunata, Penicillium oxalicum, Epicoccum sp., Fusarium solanii, Fusarium oxysporum, Periconia sp., Rhizopus sp., and other Penicillium species. Many of these fungi are well-documented allergens and have been reported to cause adverse health manifestations—such as respiratory discomfort and skin irritation—among students, teaching staff, and book handlers exposed to airborne mycobiota. The present study aimed to investigate the aeromycological diversity within the Midnapore College Library and to conduct immuno-clinical assessments to identify specific serum IgE using both in vivo and in vitro diagnostic techniques. Individuals frequently visiting the library reported symptoms including eye irritation, headaches, itchy skin, sore throat, and severe asthma. Spearman’s rank correlation analysis revealed a significant association between total and dominant spore concentrations and the health status of affected individuals. Clinico-immunological evaluations confirmed the allergenicity of Aspergillus fumigatus, with 39.5% of atopic individuals showing positive reactions in skin prick tests (SPT). Additionally, three novel sero-reactive proteins were identified, offering valuable insights for local clinicians in diagnosing and managing fungal-induced allergic conditions.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology4010002

Authors: Rajat Prakash Singhal Sumit Khandelwal Akhilendra Bhushan Gupta

Allergic rhinitis and asthma remain major public-health challenges, with airborne pollen serving as a key environmental driver. This study investigates the temporal association between aeroallergen exposure, patient healthcare utilization, and allergy medicine consumption at the MNIT Jaipur dispensary from 2015 to 2020, focusing on Holoptelea integrifolia pollen as a primary allergen. Patient visit data and medicine issuance records were analyzed to evaluate seasonal co-trends using descriptive time-series and statistical tests, including Pearson correlation and Mann–Whitney U. The analysis revealed consistent peaks in both patient visit and medicine issuance during February–April, corresponding with H. integrifolia pollen release, and secondary peaks during August–September and October, coinciding with Amaranthus spinosus, Parthenium hysterophorus, and monsoon mold activity. A moderate positive correlation (r = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.22–0.79, p = 0.007) and significant differences between high- and low-patient months (U = 107.5, p = 0.043, 95% CI of difference: 1323–3620 units) indicating that increased healthcare utilization coincides with seasonal aeroallergen exposure. These findings highlight the potential of medicine consumption data as a cost-effective proxy for allergen surveillance, aiding early warning and preparedness for seasonal allergy management. Integration of such pharmaco-epidemiological insights with dispersion models may strengthen predictive frameworks for pollen exposure and public-health response.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology4010001

Authors: Daniela A. Molinari Mauro A. E. Chaparro Aureliano A. Guerrero Marcos A. E. Chaparro

Airborne magnetic particles (AMPs) are associated with potentially toxic elements, and their size, mineralogy, and concentration can significantly impact both the environment and human health. However, their spatial analysis is often limited by small datasets, non-normality, and pronounced local variability. In this work, two sites with distinct demographic and geographic characteristics, the city of Mar del Plata (Argentina) and the Aburrá Valley region (Colombia), were analyzed using the fuzzy Magnetic Pollution Index (IMC) as an indicator of the concentration of AMPs. Moreover, an original methodological framework that explicitly incorporates measurement uncertainty through fuzzy numbers, combined with an approach modeling fuzzy semivariances via α-cuts, performs spatial prediction via ordinary kriging. This study produces maps that simultaneously reflect the magnitude of IMC and its associated uncertainty. Unlike classical geostatistics, the fuzzy-based model captures the inherent imprecision of magnetic measurements and reveals spatial patterns where uncertainty becomes informative about the type and origin of pollution. In particular, this approach demonstrates that areas with higher IMC levels are associated with high anthropic activity (near industrial zones, main avenues, slow traffic). In contrast, lower values were found in residential areas. Overall, the fuzzy-driven approach provides an additional layer of information not accessible through traditional methods, improving spatial interpretation and supporting the identification of priority areas for environmental monitoring.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology3040012

Authors: Barbara Dorota Kolarik Susanne Celia Rørbye Martin Nerum Olsen Kristoffer Kampmann

The Danish asbestos executive order defines a range of situations and work processes that require no protective measures, due to an assumption of low dust generation and therefore negligible exposure to asbestos fibers. The purpose of the study was to investigate the exposure of workers performing tasks where low dust generation is assumed, as well as those in direct proximity. Five roof renovation projects, one facade removal project, and one removal project of whole pipes with intact asbestos insulation were included in the study. A total of 52 personal samples and 33 stationary samples were collected. The asbestos fiber concentrations measured in personal samples ranged from below the detection limit to 0.13 f/cm3 (fibers/cm3). Despite the large spread between projects, the measured concentrations of asbestos fibers in 45 of the 52 personal samples were above the Danish occupational exposure limit value (OEL) of 0.003 f/cm3. The concentration of asbestos fibers in 20 of 33 stationary samples was also above the Danish OEL. The results of personal and stationary measurements suggest that any work with asbestos-containing materials may be associated with a significant risk of exposure above the OEL and, thus, should not be considered a low-dust-generating process without measurements.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology3040011

Authors: Alina-Maria Ivaşko Corina Ureche Oana Cristina Marginean Monica Grama Teodora Nicola-Varo

Co-exposure to airborne pollen and fungal spores is increasingly recognized as a contributor to asthma and allergic rhinitis, especially as climatic shifts since 2020 have intensified their seasonal overlap. We systematically searched PubMed and Google Scholar for studies published between 2020 and 2025 that assessed simultaneous pollen–fungi exposure and respiratory outcomes. Screening was performed independently by two reviewers, resulting in 12 eligible studies out of 320 records. Meta-analysis was not feasible due to substantial heterogeneity in exposure definitions, taxa, outcome measures, and analytical approaches. Overall, the studies indicate that short-term co-exposure tends to worsen respiratory symptoms and increase emergency visits or asthma exacerbations, with stronger effects in children, polysensitized individuals, and urban settings. However, effect sizes varied considerably across regions and methodologies. Environmental and climatological papers provided context for seasonal overlap but did not contribute clinical data. Current evidence suggests a potential synergistic effect, though more standardized exposure metrics are needed to refine risk estimates.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology3040010

Authors: Divjot Kour Sofia Sharief Khan Meenakshi Gusain Akshara Bassi Tanvir Kaur Aman Kataria Simranjeet Kaur Harpreet Kour

International interests in bioaerosols have gained an increased attention to widen the knowledge pool of their identification, distribution, and quantification. Aeromycota signify a complex and diverse group of fungi dispersed through the atmosphere. Aeromycology is an important field of research due to its important role in human health. Aeromycoflora both indoors and outdoors, are responsible for many allergies and other respiratory diseases. The present review describes the diversity of the aeromycoflora, the techniques used for sampling, identification, and taxonomic classification, and the limitations of the traditional culture-based methods as they fail to detect unculturable species. Furthermore, the spatial and temporal variability in aeromycota complicate consistent monitoring. Both indoor and outdoor environments harbor airborne fungi. The diversity in indoor environments is greatly shaped by the moisture content, building design, and ventilation, which are further taken into consideration. Further, the health impacts of the indoor and outdoor fungi have been discussed and what control measures can be taken to reduce the exposure risks and management strategies that can be adopted. Artificial intelligence (AI) can bring revolution in this field of research and can help in improving detection, monitoring, and classification of airborne fungi. The review finally outlines the emerging role of AI in aeromycology.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology3040009

Authors: Athanasios Charalampopoulos Ioanna Pyrri Athanasios Damialis

Urban environments constitute of spaces in which the majority of humankind reside, work and recreate [...]

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology3030008

Authors: Rewi M. Newnham Laura McDonald Katherine Holt Stuti L. Misra Natasha Ngadi Calista Liviana Ngadi Amy H. Y. Chan

In many regions, the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle is a key factor in modulating climate processes that can influence seasonal variability in the production and dispersal of allergy-triggering pollen. However, the impacts on allergy health are not well known. We compare grass pollen seasons between the major modes of the ENSO cycle in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, within a region that is highly sensitive to quasi-predictable meteorological oscillations of the ENSO cycle. We find no clear difference in the timing of onset of the pollen seasons, but season length was shorter, by >30 days, and less severe during the La Niña phase than for the other phases. The difference in pollen season length may be explained by the greater summer rainfall typically experienced in Auckland and elsewhere in northern New Zealand during La Niña phases, which tend to suppress grass pollen abundance when excessive. As grass pollen is the principal source of allergenic pollen in New Zealand and in many other countries, these results have wider implications for allergy management. With ENSO forecasting offering the prospect of several month’s lead time, there is potential for improving community preparedness and resilience to inter-annual dynamics of the grass pollen season. This work points to the need to better understand the influence of short-term climate cycles on seasonal variability in pollen allergy, while we also emphasise that the strong geographical heterogeneity in ENSO cycle climate impacts necessitates a region-specific approach. This work also further underscores the need for standardised, local–regional pollen monitoring in NZ and the risk of relying upon static, nationwide pollen calendars for informing allergy treatment.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology3030007

Authors: Kavita Ghosal Atin Adhikari

Since the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, the interplay of human behavior, environmental factors, viral evolution, and public health interventions has resulted in unexpected changes in the timing, intensity, and geography of respiratory virus outbreaks. For example, respiratory syncytial viruses (RSV) exhibited a surge during atypical summer months in several countries. Influenza, on the other hand, nearly vanished in the early years of the pandemic, but returned with unusual strength and altered seasonal patterns. Concurrently, new variants of concern in coronaviruses have demonstrated increased airborne transmissibility, greater resilience to environmental conditions, and the ability to evade both natural and vaccine-induced immunity. In this review article, we have synthesized the current understanding of the aerobiology of respiratory infectious viruses, with a particular emphasis on the paradoxical trends observed in recent years. We examined various aspects, including viral morphology and environmental survivability, shifts in seasonality, the drivers of mutation and resistance, and the impact of environmental and climatic factors. Key issues we explored include viral morphology adaptation in response to airborne selective pressures and climate variability influence on the ecology of airborne viruses. Lastly, we investigated future risks and proposed an interdisciplinary framework for monitoring and mitigating airborne viral threats in an ever-changing world.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology3030006

Authors: José Luis Pérez-Díaz Cristina del Álamo Paula Aranguren-Rivas Sonia Peiró María Muñoz Antonio Alcamí Ángela Vázquez-Calvo Cristina Óvilo Luis Calvo Pedro Morales Beatriz Jiménez

Bacterial genera present in several areas of a pig farm were analyzed using high-throughput sequencing techniques. Samples were collected from the skin and feces of animals, as well as from surfaces, water, and air. The analyses revealed a strong correlation between air and skin samples, supporting the idea that bacterial growth on skin is potentially a mechanism of aerosolization and airborne transport. A water–air transmission route also appears to be present, although the direction of the transport mechanism cannot yet be determined. Other potential routes, such as contact with surfaces or feces, seem to be less efficient.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology3020005

Authors: Yuichi Takahashi Yusuke Suzuki Tsukasa Ito

We investigated whether a cold front passed on the day when the most cedar pollen was dispersed in each year. When we looked at the 10-year period from 2015 to 2024, and found seven cases in which a cold front passed through the pollen survey area in the Tohoku region. In these cases, extremely large amounts of pollen were dispersed in the hours before and after the front passed. What they had in common was that the amount of pollen dispersion increased significantly at the time the front passed and before and after it. There were 3 cases when a large amount of Japanese cedar pollen was dispersed, even though a cold front did not pass through our Tohoku region. In these cases, large amounts of pollen were dispersed during the time when the warm front was located several hundred to one thousand kilometers south from Tohoku region. The large amount of dispersion continued as long as the fronts moved northward and got closer by several hundred kilometers to the Tohoku region, and the pollen dispersion decreased by the time the front reached the Tohoku region.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology3020004

Authors: Xuezheng Yu Yunping Han Yingnan Cao Jianguo Liu Zipeng Liu Yilin Li Weiying Feng

Rural villages function as relatively self-sustained production and living units with well-developed infrastructure. In this setting, investigating the transmission pathways of airborne biological particles, including pathogenic microorganisms, is pivotal for ensuring the health of residents. This study investigated the sources and dispersion of biogenic particulate matter in rural ambient air and factors influencing their behavior. Potential bioaerosol sources including livestock farming areas, composting sites, garbage dumps, and sewage treatment facilities were investigated using a calibrated portable bioaerosol detector to collect and analyze the dispersion of bioaerosol particles. The dispersal characteristics of Enterobacteriaceae were explored using an Andersen six-stage sampler. Livestock farming areas were the primary source of bioparticles. The distribution of the bioparticles varied significantly with environmental conditions. Key factors influencing their distribution included the dispersal capabilities due to wind speed and the processes of aggregation and coagulation of particles. The dispersal pathway of Enterobacteriaceae indicated that the inhabitants of residences near the dispersion source might be exposed to health risks from pathogenic bacteria present in bioparticles indoors. Understanding such characteristics and transmission patterns of bioparticles in rural environments provides a scientific basis for risk assessment and management strategies, with important implications for improving air-quality monitoring, public health policies, and environmental management in rural areas.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology3020003

Authors: Filipe da Silva de Oliveira Ednilton Tavares de Andrade Carla Viegas Jéssica Raquel Sales Carvalho de Souza Giovanni Francisco Rabelo Susana Viegas

Several studies have reported the incidence of fungi and mycotoxins in coffee beans; however, there are few reports related to occupational exposure to these agents at coffee dry milling industries. The aim of this review was to identify and to analyze studies assessing occupational exposure to fungi and mycotoxins in coffee industries. Therefore, a systematic literature search was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology and focusing on the assessment of occupational exposure to fungi and mycotoxins in the coffee industry. In these papers, different environmental matrices were considered in evaluating occupational exposure, but the most used matrix was airborne dust (four of the five studies). Airborne fungi were sampled using active (four of the five studies) and passive sampling. Only the most recent of the studies (2022) identified microorganisms by their genera and species, and only two groups of mycotoxins were analyzed in the studies considered, namely, Ochratoxin A and Aflatoxins. None of the studies reported data on both fungi and mycotoxins. The fungal genera identified in these occupational environments included Cladosporium, Paecilomyces, Aspergillus, Penicillium, and other genera. Among the mycotoxins, only aflatoxins and ochratoxin A were investigated. Occupational exposure to these biological agents may lead to several health effects. Fungal spores and fragments can cause respiratory diseases such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, bronchitis, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Additionally, the mycotoxins studied—particularly Aflatoxins and Ochratoxin A—are associated with serious toxicological effects. Coexposure to both fungi and mycotoxins may enhance health risks and should be carefully considered in occupational risk assessments. Considering the possible effects related to exposure to fungi and mycotoxins and the number of workers involved in this type of industry in the world, more studies should be developed. This is the first review to systematically consolidate data on occupational exposure to both fungi and mycotoxins specifically within the coffee industry, highlighting existing knowledge gaps and the need for targeted risk assessments in coffee-producing settings.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology3010002

Authors: Matilde Anaya-Villalpanda Erasmo Gámez-Espinosa Sofía Borrego-Alonso

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of an extremely low-frequency oscillating magnetic field on the enzymatic activities of common airborne Aspergillus sp. strains that were isolated from indoor environments. A D-optimal experimental design with three factors was applied: magnetic field density (0.5 to 2 mT), exposure time (0.5 to 2 h), and Aspergillus sp. strains (A. ellipticus, A. japonicus, A. flavus, and A. fumigatus). The response variables were exoenzymatic indexes (cellulolytic, amylolytic, proteolytic, lipolytic, and hemolytic) and pH, as a measure of organic acid production. A. ellipticus was the highest producer of organic acids, and A. japonicus was as pathogenic as A. fumigatus. Different magnetobiological effects were observed: on enzyme secretion in the remaining strains, we detected no appreciable effect (Ilip and Iprot of A. flavus), inhibition (Ilip of A. ellipticus; Icel and Iamil of A. japonicus; Iamil and Iprot of A. fumigatus), and stimulation. Predictive quadratic models were obtained, and 2 mT for 2 h was the magnetic treatment regime that influenced the fungal enzymatic activity. These physiological changes following magnetobiological effects could be influenced during fungal sporulation and must thus be considered in aeromicrobiology studies. They can also be beneficial for obtaining industrial-use enzymes, but detrimental to the biodeterioration of different materials and human health.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology3010001

Authors: Mateus Fernandes Oliveira Adaíses Simone Maciel-Silva

Biological soil crusts (biocrusts) are communities which thrive primarily in the upper soil layers of arid and semi-arid environments. Biocrusts produce soil-binding compounds, tolerate extreme conditions, and disperse through both sexual and asexual diaspores via wind, water, or animals. Despite their significance, dispersal mechanisms involving airborne diaspores in biocrusts remain largely unexplored and poorly understood. This review provides an overview of techniques, from basic to advanced, to help researchers investigate these often-overlooked aspects of biocrust ecology. We discuss both passive and active methods for sampling airborne organisms, highlighting their potential in studies of biocrust organisms. We present traditional techniques, such as microscope glass slides coated with adhesive substances, as well as more advanced equipment like Rotorods. For organism identification, we explore traditional morphological methods, but also introduce more modern approaches, such as metabarcoding, which allow for the simultaneous study of multiple organism groups. This review underscores the potential of these methods to enhance our understanding of the aerobiology of biocrusts. By shedding light on these dispersal dynamics, this review aims to support future research and foster advancements in biogeography, ecosystem restoration, and conservation strategies.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology2040009

Authors: Francisco Hilder Magalhães-e-Silva Francisco de Assis Ribeiro dos Santos

Pollen rain studies are rare in arid and semi-arid regions worldwide. Interpretations related to the dynamics of plant communities and possible paleoclimatic changes in these areas face significant limitations due to this lack of data. The global biome of Seasonally Dry Tropical Forests and Shrublands (SDTFS) is represented in Northeast Brazil by the caatinga, which is composed of xerophytic vegetation. This study aimed to generate information about the pollen rain in this area and to understand its relationship with species flowering, pollination syndromes, life forms, and climatic aspects. A caatinga area in Canudos, Bahia, Brazil (09°54′ S 39°07′ W), was selected for this purpose. Artificial pollen collectors were installed and exchanged monthly over two years for palynological analyses of the collected material, using standard palynological techniques. A total of 124 pollen types were identified, with approximately 8823 pollen grains deposited per cm2 over the two years. Several vegetation components were represented in the pollen rain, reflecting local plant diversity, life forms, and physiognomies. A positive relationship was observed between increased temperature and pollen production from trees and shrubs, and new pollen types were associated with indicator species of caatinga vegetation.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology2040008

Authors: Denise De Franco Alessandro Di Menno di Bucchianico Alessandro Travaglini Maria Antonia Brighetti

Global environmental change is rapidly altering the dynamics of terrestrial vegetation, with consequences for the functioning of the Earth system. Recent studies show that climate change is influencing the phenology and distribution of plants. Airborne pollen reflects the flowering period of the plant, which is influenced by meteorological variables such as temperature and rainfall. The analysis of pollen trends is a very useful tool for understanding the effects of climate change on vegetation. In fact, it is accepted that the onset and peak abundance of certain pollen types should be used as possible bioindicators of climate change. The aim of the work is to analyze the presence of various pollen in Rome—from their release from the anthers to their permanence in the atmosphere, the trends of phenological (start, length, and end of the pollen season) and production (pollen abundance and pollen peaks) pollen indicators, the trends of the meteorological variables mainly involved (temperature and precipitation), and any relationships between pollen and meteorological variables, also based on the variation in vegetation. In the period considered, the analysis of the pollen spectra shows an increasing trend in herbaceous taxa, probably attributed to a gradual abandonment of farming practices in the neighboring area, which in recent years has been the subject of intense new construction activity and to a progressive deterioration in the maintenance of green areas.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology2040007

Authors: Claudio F. Pérez Ana G. Ulke María I. Gassmann

This paper addresses the study of synoptic-scale meteorological conditions that favor long-range pollen transport in southern South America combining airborne pollen counts, modeled three-dimensional backward trajectories, and synoptic and surface meteorological data. Alnus pollen transport trajectories indicate origins predominantly in montane forests of the Yungas between 1500 and 2800 m altitude. The South American Low-Level Jet is the main meteorological feature that explains 64% of the detected pollen arrival at the target site. Podocarpus and Nothofagus pollen instead are linked primarily to the widespread Subantartic forests in southern Patagonia. Their transport patterns are consistent with previous studies, which show an association with synoptic patterns related to cold front passages carrying pollen in the free atmosphere (27% for Nothofagus and 25% for Podocarpus). These results show the significance of understanding long-distance pollen transport for disciplines such as climate change reconstruction and agriculture, emphasizing the need for further research to refine atmospheric circulation models and refine interpretations of past vegetation and climate dynamics.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology2040006

Authors: Changliang Nie Yuqi Qiu Tianxiao Pei Yunhan Qin

Bioaerosols constitute a crucial component of atmospheric particulate matter, encompassing physical and chemical aerosol properties along with biological characteristics. They can influence global ecosystems, climate change dynamics, and air quality. Notably, bioaerosols serve as a significant pathway for transmitting respiratory infectious diseases, garnering widespread attention worldwide following major pandemics such as COVID-19. Thanks to the development of high-throughput sequencing technologies, studies on bioaerosols have flourished in recent years. Understanding the interconnectedness of sources, spatial and temporal distributions, influencing factors, and health risks associated with bioaerosols is imperative for devising pollution mitigation strategies and preventing the spread of related epidemics. This review provides an overview of bioaerosol sources while elucidating distribution patterns within their community structure across various source types. Lastly, this overview offers insights into future advancements in the field of bioaerosols along with corresponding recommendations.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology2030005

Authors: M. Elias Dueker Beckett Lansbury Gabriel G. Perron

The role that aquatic aerosols might play in inter-ecosystem exchanges in freshwater riparian environments has largely been understudied. In these environments, where freshwater streams are used both as drinking water and for treated waste disposal, water features like waterfalls, downed trees, and increased streamflow can serve as bioaerosol producers. Such water features could have an important role in the bacterial colonization of surrounding surfaces, including the riparian phyllosphere. In this study, we explore the influence of a freshwater stream’s bacterial community composition and micropollution on riparian maple leaves exposed to bioaerosols produced from that stream. Using culture-based and non-culture-based techniques, we compared phylloplane microbial communities in riparian zones, adjacent non-riparian forested zones, and the surface waters of the stream. In this system, riparian zone maple leaf surfaces had higher bacterial counts than non-riparian zone trees. Using metagenomic profiling of the 16S rRNA gene, we found that, while microbial communities on leaves in both the riparian zone and forested sites were diverse, riparian zone bacterial communities were significantly more diverse. In addition, we found that riparian leaf bacterial communities shared more amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) with stream bacterial communities than forest leaves, indicating that the riparian zone phyllosphere is likely influenced by bioaerosols produced from water surfaces.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology2030004

Authors: Mattia Fragola Dalila Peccarrisi Salvatore Romano Gianluca Quarta Lucio Calcagnile

This study aims to investigate the seasonal variation and source identification of fluorescent aerosol particles at the monitoring site of the University of Salento in Lecce, southeastern Italy. Utilizing a wideband integrated bioaerosol sensor (WIBS), this research work analyzes data from two specific monitoring days: one in winter (10 January 2024), marked by significant transport of anthropogenic particles from Eastern Europe, and another in early spring (6 March 2024), characterized by marine aerosol sources and occasional desert dust. This study focuses on the seven WIBS particle categories (A, B, C, AB, AC, BC, ABC), which exhibited distinct characteristics between the two days, indicating different aerosol compositions. Winter measurements revealed a predominance of fine-mode particles, particularly soot and bacteria. In contrast, spring measurements showed larger particles, including fungal spores, pollen fragments, and mineral dust. Fluorescence intensity data further emphasized an increase in biological and organic airborne material in early spring. These results highlight the dynamic nature of fluorescent aerosol sources in the Mediterranean region and the necessity of continuous monitoring for air quality assessments. By integrating WIBS measurements with air mass back-trajectories, this study effectively identifies fluorescent aerosol sources and their seasonal impacts, offering valuable insights into the environmental and health implications of aerosol variability in the investigated Mediterranean area.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology2020003

Authors: Glykeria Loupa Georgios Dabanlis Georgia Resta Evangelia Kostenidou Spyridon Rapsomanikis

Indoor microclimate conditions and air pollutant concentrations (O3, TVOC, CO, CO2, and particulate matter mass concentrations in six size bins) were measured in the Greek Archaeological Museum of Abdera, which houses priceless works of art from the birthplace of the ancient philosopher Democritus. The monitoring campaign took place during the spring and summer months, when there were the greatest number of visitors. In the exhibition rooms, daily variations in relative humidity ranged from 4% to 10%, and daily variations in air temperature ranged from 0.9 °C to 2.6 °C. These uncontrolled changes may endanger the housed antiquities. The microclimate in the storage rooms varied substantially less than in the exhibition halls due to dehumidifiers and the lack of visitors. Concerning air pollution, indoor O3 concentrations were higher than the recommended limit values for the conservation of artwork. Even more worrisome are particulate matter mass concentrations above the air quality guidelines. Despite the fact that the building is well insulated and that only artificial lighting is used in the exhibition halls, it is difficult to achieve adequate conditions for the protection of the works of art.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology2010002

Authors: Helena Ribeiro Paula Castro Ilda Abreu

Our study aimed to quantify the pollen trapped by the seeds and relate it with the airborne pollen concentrations. Individual Populus spp. tuft-like seeds were sampled while suspended twice a day in 2017 and 2018 during the seed dispersal season. The seeds were submitted to laboratory treatment for pollen extraction, which was quantified using an optical microscope. Airborne pollen was monitored using a seven-day Hirst-type volumetric spore sampler. A correlation analysis was performed between the airborne pollen, the pollen on the seeds, and the meteorological parameters. A total of 26 pollen grains/mg was counted in the airborne tuft-like seeds, with 26 different taxa being identified, compared with the 18 pollen taxa identified in the airborne samples. Quercus, Poaceae, Urticaceae, Pinus, and Platanus were the most frequent pollen found on the seeds, while in the atmosphere, pollen from Urticaceae, Quercus, and Cupressaceae were the most representative. A tendency of higher pollen concentrations found in the afternoon samples, both airborne and on the seeds, was observed. Correlations between the meteorological parameters and pollen concentration found airborne and in the seeds were overall not significant. Thus, airborne poplar tuft-like seeds can trap and transport pollen, most of which has been recognized to induce respiratory allergies.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology2010001

Authors: Yuichi Takahashi

About 40% of cedar pollinosis patients living in the Yamagata Prefecture showed pollinosis symptoms before the first day of the pollen season, which was determined by Durham samplers, the standard sampler for pollen information in Japan. The amount of Cry j 1 (major cedar pollen allergen) per cedar pollen is reported to be six pg. This amount is difficult to measure using the ELISA method, so we applied the highly sensitive ESR radical immunoassay method to measure the allergen; now we can provide information for sensitive patients. It revealed that Cry j 1 exists in orbicles and tapetum. It is presumed that it is smaller than pollen, so it comes from a place where cedar are already in bloom. It is desirable to obtain real-time information on an hourly basis. Currently, information from automatic cedar pollen monitors is becoming main-stream. However, this monitor may count during snowfalls, Asian dust flying, etc., even when there was no apparent pollen examined with a microscope. This paper describes the current status of automatic cedar pollen monitors, their usefulness, and their advantages and disadvantages in comparison with results obtained by other methods of measurement. Lastly, the paper describes expectations for cedar pollen information in the future.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology1020008

Authors: Maurício C. Mantoani Thaysla Beluco Quintino Ana Paula M. Emygdio Lara C. C. Guerra Maria A. F. S. Dias Pedro L. S. Dias Fábio Rodrigues Dulcilena M. C. Silva Valter Batista Duo Filho Anderson Paulo Rudke Ronaldo Adriano Alves Leila Droprinchinski Martins Jorge Alberto Martins Alexandre Siqueira Solana M. Boschilia Federico Carotenuto Tina Šantl-Temkiv Vaughan Phillips Fábio L. T. Gonçalves

Although studies focusing on the physicochemical properties of aerosols/clouds have not been performed extensively, even less attention has been given to hailstones and their biological composition. Here, we present the results of the physical and microbiological characterisation of 20 hailstones collected in Southern Brazil originating from two storms. Nearly half of the hailstones (9 out of 20, or 45%) did not contain any cultivable bacteria or fungi. A total of 18 bacterial species were found in hailstones from both storms, and the genus Bacillus was found in 5 out of the 11 hailstones, with Bacillus cereus being the most frequent bacterial species. Fungi, on the other hand, were only present in four hailstones derived from a single storm, with three fungal species identified and Epicoccum nigrum being the most frequent fungal species. HYSPLIT modelling indicated the different flow of air masses from the Amazon and Pacific Ocean that contributed to the loading of microorganisms found in the clouds at the time of the two storms. Our findings suggest that ca. 50% of hailstones have cultivable bacterial or fungal species, which came mainly from the local landscape with intrusions of air masses derived from the Amazon and the Pacific Ocean.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology1020007

Authors: Elena Hunter Benita Percival Daniela T. Eberl Samuel J. White

UV irradiation has shown potential in reducing bacterial and viral loadings. This is a pilot study aimed at investigating the antimicrobial effect of a novel pulsed UVA and UVC technology on bacteria and human coronavirus 229E. The selection of these microorganisms is based on their relevance and significance in real-world scenarios. This study consists of independent experiments for the assessment of antibacterial and antiviral activities by using a lawn plate approach, measuring levels of adenine triphosphate (ATP) in three bacterial strains, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Bacillus subtilis, and performing Median Tissue Culture Infectious Dose (TCID50) of HCoV-229E on MRC-5 human lung fibroblast cell line. The results demonstrated the ability of UVA and UVC irradiation to reduce levels of adenine triphosphate (ATP) over a 12 h exposure period in all three bacterial strains, comparative to dark and artificial/natural light conditions using non-pulsing experiments. In addition to this, there was a reduction in colonies exposed to UVA and UVC pulsing experiments for E. coli K12 and S. epidermis compared to bacteria stored in artificial/natural and dark conditions. Furthermore, using dose-dependent modelling, it was demonstrated that the cross-contamination risk was reduced by 50% using E. coli as a typical model. Regarding the antiviral assay, the results showed that TCID50 of HCoV-229E was reduced after the first cycle of UV engagement. No cytopathic effect (CPE) was detected after three cycles using Protocol 1. The findings showed that UVA and UVC were effective under the conditions outlined in this paper for a reduction in the number of bacteria with additional applications to viruses.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology1020006

Authors: Shinhao Yang Chi-Yu Chuang Hsiao-Chien Huang Wei Fang

Avian influenza virus (AIV) can have a serious impact on both human and animal health. In this study, we used an environmentally controlled chamber and a hemagglutination assay (HA) to evaluate the ability of membrane-less electrolyzed water (MLEW) spraying to inactivate H6N1 AIV aerosol. MLEW was generated by electrolyzing sodium chloride solution, and then sprayed into the chamber at free available chlorine (FAC) concentrations of 50, 100 and 200 mg/L by means of high-pressure air pumping to inactivate airborne H6N1 AIV aerosols individually. The results showed that MLEW spraying effectively neutralized H6N1 AIV aerosol. In addition, the virucidal ability of MLEW increased as the FAC concentration increased. Five minutes after MLEW spraying at an FAC concentration of 200 mg/L, the H6N1 viral HA titer decreased from 24 to 20. Our work provides important new evidence of the value of spraying with MLEW disinfectant to protect against AIV, which may be further applied for indoor decontamination purposes to promote animal and human health.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology1010005

Authors: Maria Cid del Prado Osvaldo Zarco-Cid del Prado Hilda Adriana Guerrero-Parra Karla Elisa Juárez Contreras

Allergic diseases are a global health problem; their prevalence has increased in recent decades. The presence of allergenic airborne pollen is one of the main triggers of this disorder. For this reason, the first pollen calendar of Toluca City was developed. Daily and bihourly airborne pollen samplings with a Hirst-type Burkard Trap were performed from August 2009 to December 2013. Annual Pollen Integral (APIn), Main Pollen Season (MPS) and Diurnal Pattern (DP) were determined. Relationships with meteorological parameters were investigated. Tree pollen grain presented higher concentrations, with Cupressaceae as the most abundant taxon (52.6%), followed by Alnus sp. (13.3%), Pinaceae (7.3%), Fraxinus sp. (6.0%) and Quercus sp. (2.0%), which presented a definite seasonality. Urticaceae (3.7%) was the most abundant herbaceous pollen taxon registered. The DP obtained showed that pollen grains of most taxa are frequently found after midday and afternoon. Regression models showed the influence of environmental variables on all taxa. This study will allow us the enhancement of preventive actions and improvement of the regional design of patient tests.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology1010004

Authors: Tanmoy Basak Kashinath Bhattacharya

Background: It has been recognized from the early days of allergology that aerobiological investigations have an important role to play in the development of respiratory allergic diseases. An increasing number of allergic complaints occurred among the atopic population during the blooming season of Kans grass, Saccharum spontaneum (SS), an obnoxious weed growing in and around suburban West Bengal. The present study aimed to identify SS pollen as a potential aero allergen through aerobiological, clinical, statistical, and biochemical analyses. Methods: An aerobiological survey was conducted for 2 years followed by a clinical diagnosis of 134 local atopic patients suffering from a respiratory allergy by a standard questionnaire survey and the skin prick test (SPT) using SS antigens. The antigenic protein profile was analyzed by SDS-PAGE and the allergizing potential of this pollen was investigated by an in vitro enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to recognize the presence of the sero-reactive proteins which were the suspected cause of the respiratory allergy. A Box-plot and regression analysis were performed to establish the significance of clinical data. Results: SS pollen was found to evoke about 70.14% sensitivity among the atopic population causing early spring hay fever, allergic rhinitis, and seasonal allergic conjunctivitis. A regression analysis for the pollen antigen for estimating the total IgE value of a patient’s sera from their specific IgE value was a novel approach by our study. The antigenic extract of pollen resolved into more than 15 distinct protein bands ranging from 14.4 to 116 kDa, some of which were found to be glycosylated. The results showed that SS pollen has a significant presence in the atmosphere, which may trigger an allergic response in immunocompromised patients. Conclusions: This is, to our knowledge, the first attempt to identify allergens from Kans pollen causing seasonal pollinosis among the Indian atopic population using an immuno-clinical approach.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology1010003

Authors: Malek Alaouie Gera M. Troisi Najat Saliba Houssam Shaib Rayan Hajj Rawan El Hajj Sandy Malak Carla Jakarian Wiaam Jaafar

Over 1 million Syrian refugees have fled war to seek asylum in Lebanon. The population has been placed in substandard conditions which could lead to adverse health effects, particularly in vulnerable subgroups, notably due to evident chronic dampness and inadequate ventilation potentially leading to indoor mold growth. To investigate whether the types and conditions of Syrian refugee shelters influence indoor mold populations, a cross-sectional indoor environmental study was performed in 4 provinces of Lebanon. Accordingly, a total of 80 refugee households and 20 host population households (baseline) were selected. Mold air sampling and moisture measurements of shelter material were performed in residential, non-residential, and non-permanent shelters. Results revealed that although non-residential shelters had the highest mean total indoor count (1112 CFU/m3), Aspergillus, Stachybotrys, and Penicillium spp. were strongly associated with non-permanent shelters (p < 0.001). Additionally, occupancy was found to be strongly associated with Cladosporium (p < 0.05), Ulocladium (p < 0.05), and Stachybotrys spp. (p < 0.001). As for shelter conditions, the highest total indoor count (1243 CFU/m3) was reported in unfinished structures. These findings suggest that shelter category, condition and occupancy significantly influence indoor mold concentrations, increasing respiratory health risks for Syrian refugees in Lebanon.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology1010002

Authors: Jean Phellipe Marques do Nascimento Raniele dos Santos Mirna Samile dos Santos Silva Mykaella Andrade de Araújo Lucas Anhezini Daniela Évelin dos Santos Eurípedes Alves da Silva-Filho

Introduction-Aims: Fungi are ubiquitous microorganisms that are easily dispersed through the air. In healthcare environments, indoor air can favor the spread of healthcare-associated fungal infections, compromising mainly immunocompromised hospitalized individuals. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate indoor air contamination in healthcare environments, investigating mainly the presence of potentially pathogenic yeasts. Method: Indoor air samples were collected from 12 healthcare environments (hospital and medical clinics). After the growth, isolation, and purification of the yeast colonies, the isolates were identified by polymerase chain reaction using species-specific primers for yeasts of the genus Candida and sequencing of D1/D2 domains of the large ribosomal subunit (LSU rRNA). Results and interpretation: Fourteen yeast species were identified, including emerging pathogens. Species of clinical importance such as Candida parapsilosis, Candida glabrata, and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa were present. C. parapsilosis was the most prevalent species, followed by Rhodotorula mucilaginosa. In addition, we report the first occurrence of Candida orthopsilosis, Trichosporon mucoides, Fereydounia khargensis, and Hortaea werneckii in indoor air samples collected in healthcare environments. The present study shows that potentially fungal pathogens were present in air samples from healthcare environments, proving the role of indoor air in spreading infections. Therefore, monitoring air quality in healthcare environments is a fundamental approach to developing infection control measures, especially those related to invasive fungal infections.

Aerobiology doi: 10.3390/aerobiology1010001

Authors: Chad J. Roy

It is simultaneously professionally humbling and an absolute pleasure to be associated with the launch of a new open access journal, with added emphasis in a scientific field as rich and diverse as aerobiology [...]