| 1. |
- Bjerg, Anders, 1982, et al.
(author)
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Increase in pollen sensitization in Swedish adults and protective effect of keeping animals in childhood
- 2016
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In: Clinical and Experimental Allergy. - : Wiley. - 0954-7894 .- 1365-2222. ; 46:10, s. 1328-1336
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: To date, most studies of the "allergy epidemic" have been based on self-reported data. There is still limited knowledge on time trends in allergic sensitization, especially among adults.OBJECTIVE: To study allergic sensitization, its risk factors, and time trends in prevalence.METHODS: Within West Sweden Asthma Study (WSAS) a population-based sample of 788 adults (17-60y) underwent skin prick tests (SPT) for 11 aeroallergens 2009-2012. Specific IgE was analyzed in 750 of the participants. Those aged 20-46y (n=379) were compared with the European Community Respiratory Health Survey sample aged 20-46y from the same area (n=591) in 1991-1992.RESULTS: Among those aged 20-46y the prevalence of positive SPT to pollen increased; timothy from 17.1% to 29.0% (p<0.001) and birch from 15.6% to 23.7% (p=0.002) between 1991-1992 and 2009-2012. Measurements of specific IgE confirmed these increases. Prevalence of sensitization to all other tested allergens was unchanged. In the full WSAS sample aged 17-60y any positive SPT was seen in 41.9%, and the dominating sensitizers were pollen (34.3%), animals (22.8%) and mites (12.6%). Pollen sensitization was strongly associated with rhinitis, whereas indoor allergens were more associated with asthma. Growing up with livestock or furred pets decreased the risk of sensitization, adjusted odds ratio 0.53 (0.28-0.995) and 0.68 (0.47-0.98) respectively.CONCLUSION: Pollen sensitization has increased in Swedish adults since the early 1990's, while the prevalence of sensitization to other allergens has remained unchanged. This is one plausible explanation for the increase in rhinitis 1990-2008 in Swedish adults, during which time the prevalence of asthma, which is more associated with perennial allergens, was stable. Contact with animals in childhood seems to reduce the risk of sensitization well into adulthood. One major factor contributing to the rise in pollen allergy is a significant increase in levels of birch and grass pollen over the past three decades.
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| 2. |
- Bolmgren, Kjell, et al.
(author)
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Vårtecken i samhällets tjänst.
- 2010
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In: Svensk Botanisk Tidskrift. ; 104, s. 45-51
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Journal article (other academic/artistic)
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| 3. |
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| 4. |
- Dahl, Åslög, 1955, et al.
(author)
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Anledningar till att inte kunna sova på grund av mögel i krypgrunden
- 2014
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In: Bygg och teknik. - 0281-658X. ; :8, s. 23-25
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Journal article (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Flera hundra tusen byggnader i Sverige är utrustade med en så kallad krypgrund. Krypgrunden har flera fördelar, till exempel att den är billig att lägga och att golvet upplevs som varmt vid betydligt lägre temperaturer än vad ett betonggolv (platta på mark) gör. Det är lätt att vid behov komma åt vattenledningen i krypgrunden och torka ut eventuella läckage, liksom det är möjligt att ventilera bort radon. Men det är välkänt att denna konstruktion också kan medföra en hel del bekymmer, om man inte tänker på riskerna i tid, och det finns anledning att tro att mer än en husägare legat vaken och funderat på hur det skall gå.
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| 5. |
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| 6. |
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| 7. |
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| 8. |
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| 9. |
- Dahl, Åslög, 1955
(author)
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Klimatförändringar och pollenallergi
- 2007
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In: Allergi i Praksis. - 0806-5462. ; :1, s. 14-20
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Journal article (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Enligt FN:s klimatpanel väntas medeltemperaturen i Sverige och Norge att stiga med 2-4 grader under det kommande seklet. Vintrarna blir mer nederbördsrika, och somrarna blir torrare. Vegetationszonerna kommer att förskjutas norrut. Men de flesta växter kan inte sprida sig i samma takt som förändringen sker av egen kraft. För många arter kommer det desstom bli svårt att hinna ställa om sin biologiska klocka efter nya förhållanden. Vegetationsperioden, och därmed pollensäsongen, har redan blivit längre och inom en relativt snar framtid kan pollen förekomma i luften under så gott som hela året. Ändrade konkurrensförhållanden i infsstabila nya ekosystem som drabbas av växtpatogener, oväder och skogsbränder kommer att gynna arter som är goda kolonisatörer. I Norrland gynnas björken, men på sikt kommer den att få svårare att hävda sig i södra Sverige. Boken kommer sannolikt att kraftigt utvidga sitt utbredningsområde. Även ask kan komma att klara sig bra, åtmistone lokalt. Skogsek, klibbal och ask kommer att kunna växa spontant i södra Norrland. Flera aggressiva ogräs, varav en del allergena, kommer att få möjlighet att etablera sig. Ökade koldioxidhalter kan öka pollenproduktionen, såväl hos sådana ettåriga ogräs, som hos perenna gräs och örter med snabb omsättning av näringsämnen.
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| 10. |
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| 11. |
- Dahl, Åslög, 1955, et al.
(author)
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Mångfald i mikrofloran motar mindre mysigt mögel. : Snömögel saknar naturliga fiender
- 2014
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In: Greenbladet. - 1102-5018. ; 31:4, s. 46-40
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Journal article (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Den "vanliga snömögelsvampen" (Microdochium nivale) är en så kallad oppurtunistisk svamp. Den passar på att angripa gräset under förhållanden då det på grund av yttre omständigheter inte växer av full kraft, och när andra svampar, som skulle kunna vara konkurrenter, inte kan hävda sig. Till skillnad från flera andra snömögelsvampar, som i huvudsak attackeras under ett snötäcke, förekommer Microdochium inte bara på vintern utan också vid andra tider på året. På en golfgreen är den som bekant ofta ett bekymmer. Skälet kan bland annat vara att mikrolivet i jorden inte innehåller tillräckligt många andra svampar och bakterier som kan bjuda snömögelsvamparna motstånd. Precis som mördarsniglarna sprider sig så effektivt eftersom det inte finns någon som äter upp dem, kan snömögesvampen härja fritt, i brist på naturliga fiender.
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| 12. |
- Dahl, Åslög, 1955
(author)
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Mögel och astma
- 2008
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In: Bygg och teknik. ; :2, s. 61-63
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Journal article (other academic/artistic)
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| 13. |
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| 14. |
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| 15. |
- Dahl, Åslög, 1955, et al.
(author)
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Phenology in Sweden.
- 2008
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In: NEKOVÁŘ, J., E. KOCH, E. KUBIN, P. NEJEDLIK, T. H. SPARKS, F.E. WIELGOLASKI, (eds) The history and current status of plant phenology in Enurope. COST Action 725: Establishing a European Data Platform for Climatological Observations – WG 1 Result Book.. - : Vammalan Kirjapaino Oy. - 9789514020919
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Book chapter (peer-reviewed)
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| 16. |
- Dahl, Åslög, 1955
(author)
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Pollen Lipids Can Play a Role in Allergic Airway Inflammation
- 2018
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In: Frontiers in Immunology. - : Frontiers Media SA. - 1664-3224. ; 9
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In seed plants, pollen grains carry the male gametes to female structures. They are frequent in the ambient air, and cause airway inflammation in one out of four persons in the population. This was traditionally attributed to soluble glycoproteins, leaking into the nasal mucosa or the conjunctiva, and able to bind antibodies. It is now more and more recognized that also other immunomodulating compounds are present. Lipids bind to Toll-like and PPAR gamma receptors belonging to antigen-presenting cells in the mammal immune system, activate invariant Natural Killer T-cells, and are able to induce a Type 2 reaction in effector cells. They may also mimic lipid mediators from mammal mast cells. Pollen grains have a rich lipodome of their own. Among the lipids that have been associated with an atopic reaction are saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, glycophospholipids, sphingolipids, sterols, and oxylipids, as well as lipopolysaccharides from the microbiome on the pollen surface. Lipids can be ligands to allergenic proteins.
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| 17. |
- Dahl, Åslög, 1955, et al.
(author)
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Pollen Luftföroreningar Allergi
- 2014
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Reports (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Detta häfte informerar om pollen och pollenallergi samt de viktigaste resultaten från ett utvecklingsprojekt som genomförts av Göteborgs universitet, Institutionen för biologi och miljövetenskap. Länsstyrelsen i Västra Götalands län har varit samordnare för projektet. Länsstyrelsen i Skåne, Region Skåne, VTI samt Arbets- och miljömedicin, Göteborgs universitet har deltagit. Arbetet ligger inom det nationella och regionala programområdet för Hälsorelaterad miljöövervakning. Projektets syfte har varit att analysera hur allergiframkallande pollen och några luftföroreningar tillsammans påverkar hur många recept som skrivs ut för allergiläkemedel, och hur mycket receptfria allergipreparat som säljs. Resultaten visade att det finns ett samband, och att det går att ta fram ett index som tar hänsyn till både pollenhalter och luftföroreningar. Detta skulle i sin tur kunna vara ett viktigt underlag för förbättrad information till pollenallergiker. Projektet har finansierats av Naturvårdsverket inom ramen för Hälsorelaterad miljöövervakning.
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| 18. |
- Dahl, Åslög, 1955, et al.
(author)
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Pollen, luftföroreningar och väderlek
- 2014
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Reports (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Pollenallergiker kan få ett bättre liv om de får information om tillståndet i luften. Det är till och med deras medborgerliga rättighet, enligt EU-direktiv, att få det. Därmed kan de förebygga symptom och planera sina aktiviteter. Avsikten med vår rapport är att bidra till underlaget för sådan en information, och att belysa hur de allergiska symptomen varierar med miljöfaktorer. Informationen bör innehålla en rapport om situationen innevarande dag. Vi ger ett förslag på hur den kan presenteras i form av ett luftkvalitetsindex. Dessutom bör informationen innehålla en prognos för de kommande dagarna. Pollenallergi, inklusive allergisk astma, är ett vanligt problem i vårt samhälle. Var fjärde till femte person är drabbad. Under sommarhalvåret bidrar allergin inte bara till att allergikerna får symptom från ögon och näsa, utan också till en totalt sett sänkt livskvalitet (Kiotseridis et al. 2013a, b). Ett flertal studier visar att luftföroreningar också påverkar luftvägarna. De kan orsaka en inflammation som kan förstärka allergiska besvär och som kan sänka tröskeln för att den skall uppstå. Våra resultat visar att ozon, kvävedioxid och partiklar bidrar till behovet av allergiläkemedel, när halterna överskrider ett visst tröskelvärde. Myndigheter med ansvar för miljö och folkhälsa på statlig, regional och kommunal nivå bör garantera att det finns förutsättningar för att förmedla informationen till allmänhet och sjukvård. Pollenövervakning saknas i flera regioner. I de fall sådan övervakning finns, är expertisen på området och nvändig infrastruktur inte långsiktigt tryggade. Verksamheten har hittills aldrig garanterats mer än ett år i taget. Detta innebär en ständig risk för bristande kontinuitet, att kompetens skall gå förlorad, och att underlaget till informationen är otillräcklig. I rapporten vill vi visa att allergibesvär beror av en kombination av faktorer, och bara kan förstås genom samarbete mellan experter från olika ämnesdiscipliner. Det är myndigheternas ås uppgift att tillhandahålla förutsättningar för att kompetens inom dessa områden kan samordnas. Föreliggande rapport är resultatet av ett regionalt utvecklingsprojekt i regi av länsstyrelserna i Västra Götaland och Skåne, inom ramen för Naturvårdsverkets programområde Hälsorelaterad Miljöpåverkan.
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| 19. |
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| 20. |
- Dahl, Åslög, 1955, et al.
(author)
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Se klimatförändringarna med egna ögon – gör fenologiska observationer.
- 2008
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In: Svensk Botanisk Tidskrift. - 0039-646X. ; 102:1, s. 19-26
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Journal article (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Med den förestående klimatförändringen finns ett ökat behov av att veta hur arter och växtsamhällen påverkas, Svensk naturvård har genom åren haft stor nytta av alla de botanister som på fritiden inventerat den svenska floran. Författarna vill här uppmana till en ny angelägen insats. I dag finns tekniken att rapportera fenologiska observationer som datum för lövsprickning, blomning eller fruktmognad på ett enkelt sätt.
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| 21. |
- Dahl, Åslög, 1955, et al.
(author)
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The onset, course and intensity of the pollen season
- 2013
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In: Sofiev, M, Bergman, KC (eds.) 2013: Allergenic Pollen. A review of the production, release, distribution and health impacts. Springer, Dordrecht etc.. - Dordrecht Heidelberg New York London : Springer Science + Business Media. - 9789400748804 ; , s. 29-70
-
Book chapter (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The onset, duration and intensity of the period when pollen is present in the air varies from year to year. Amongst other things, there is an effect upon the quality of life of allergy sufferers. The production and emission of pollens are governed by interacting environmental factors. Any change in these factors may affect the phenology and intensity of the season. Readiness to flower in a plant, and the amount of pollen produced, is the result of conditions during an often long period foregoing flowering. When a plant is ready to flower, temporary ambient circumstances e.g., irradiation and humidity, determine the timing of the actual pollen release. In order to understand variation between years and to be able to safely predict future situations, not least due to the ongoing climate change, it is necessary to know the determinants of all related processes and differences between and within species, here reviewed.
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| 22. |
- de Weger, Letty, et al.
(author)
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Impact of pollen.
- 2013
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In: Sofiev, M. and Bergmann, KC: Allergenic Pollen. A review of the production, release, distribution and health impacts.. - Dordrecht Heidelberg New York London : Springer. - 9789400748804 ; , s. 161-215
-
Book chapter (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The impact of pollen on human health is primarily evident in allergic diseases. Sensitized patients can respond to pollen by symptoms of nose, eyes and bronchi. Pollen threshold levels for symptom development vary among the different studies. Factors that influence the threshold level of a pollen species for symptom development are discussed. (i) Differences in response are observed among individual patients, but also among (ii) ethnic populations, (iii) changes in response to pollen concentrations during the pollen season occur, (iv) the amount of allergens carried by the pollen grains can differ in per region, from day to day and from year to year, and finally (v) threshold levels are affected by environmental factors, like weather conditions (temperature, pressure, and storms), and air pollutants. The diversity of factors that influence the health impact of pollen has hampered the definition of a straight forward relationship between pollen and the severity of symptoms. However, within the public, the policymakers and the pharmaceutical industry there is a need for a definition of threshold pollen levels. A first approach to meet this need could be to define preliminary threshold values for different regions, followed by a validation of these preliminary threshold levels with patient symptom scores that can be collected by using new information and communication technology (ICT). Finally, the possible role of pollen in non-allergic diseases is discussed, especially non-allergic respiratory diseases, cardio- and cerebrovascular diseases, and psychiatric diseases, including suicide and suicide attempt.
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| 23. |
- Eriksen, Bente, 1960, et al.
(author)
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Nyttoväxter från hela världen.
- 2013
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Book (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Nyttoväxter från hela världen ger läsaren en möjlighet att lära känna de växter som bidrar med våra vardagsprodukter, och om den natur- och kulturhistoria som är knuten till dem. Boken syftar även till att förmedla botanisk kunskap.
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| 24. |
- Galán, C., et al.
(author)
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Airborne pollen in Europe
- 2017
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In: Allergy and Allergen Immunotherapy New Mechanisms and Strategies. - : Apple Academic Press. ; , s. 127-162
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Book chapter (other academic/artistic)
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| 25. |
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| 26. |
- Gilles, Stefanie, et al.
(author)
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Pollen exposure weakens innate defense against respiratory viruses.
- 2020
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In: Allergy. - : Wiley. - 1398-9995 .- 0105-4538. ; 75:3, s. 576-587
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Hundreds of plant species release their pollen into the air every year during early spring. During that period, pollen allergic as well as non-allergic patients frequently present to doctors with severe respiratory tract infections.To assess whether pollen may interfere with antiviral immunity.We combined data from real life human exposure cohorts, a mouse model and human cell culture to test our hypothesis.Pollen significantly diminished interferon-λ and pro-inflammatory chemokine responses of airway epithelia to rhinovirus and viral mimics and decreased nuclear translocation of interferon regulatory factors. In mice infected with respiratory syncytial virus, co-exposure to pollen caused attenuated antiviral gene expression and increased pulmonary viral titers. In non-allergic human volunteers, nasal symptoms were positively correlated with airborne birch pollen abundance, and nasal birch pollen challenge led to down-regulation of type I and -III interferons in nasal mucosa. In a large patient cohort, numbers of rhinovirus-positive cases were correlated with airborne birch pollen concentrations.The ability of pollen to suppress innate antiviral immunity, independent of allergy, suggests that high-risk population groups should avoid extensive outdoor activities when pollen and respiratory virus seasons coincide.
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| 27. |
- Grundstrom, M., et al.
(author)
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Oak pollen seasonality and severity across Europe and modelling the season start using a generalized phenological model
- 2019
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In: Science of the Total Environment. - : Elsevier BV. - 0048-9697. ; 663, s. 527-536
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Oak pollen seasons are relatively unexplored in large parts of Europe despite producing allergens and being a common tree in both continental and northern parts. Many studies are concentrated only on the Iberian Peninsula. In this study, the seasonal pattern of oak pollen in Europe was analysed using 10 observation sites, ranging from Spain to Sweden. The magnitude of peaks and annual pollen integral together with season-length were studied and substantially higher pollen levels and longer seasons were found in Spain. Two northern sites in Denmark and Sweden showed high oak pollen peaks together with two sites in Spain and United Kingdom. The study also tested four common definitions of season start and applied a generalized phenological model for computing the start of the pollen season. The most accurate definition for a European-wide description of the observed oak pollen start was when the cumulative daily average pollen count reached 50 grains per cubic meter. For the modelling of the start a thermal time method based on Growing Degree Day (GDD) was implemented, utilizing daily temperatures and a generalized approach to identify model parameters applicable to all included sites. GDD values varied between sites and generally followed a decreasing gradient from south to north, with some exceptions. Modelled onsets with base temperatures below 7 degrees C matched well with observed onsets and 76% of the predictions differed <= 4 days compared to observed onsets when using a base temperature of 2 degrees C. Base temperatures above 7 degrees C frequently predicted onsets differing >1 week from the observed. This general approach can be extended to a larger area where pollen observations are non-existent. The presented work will increase the understanding of oak pollen variation in Europe and provide knowledge of its phenology, which is a critical aspect both for modelling purposes on large-scale and assessing the human exposure to oak allergens. (C) 2019 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V.
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| 28. |
- Grundström, Maria, 1979, et al.
(author)
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The relationship between birch pollen, air pollution and weather types and their effect on antihistamine purchase in two Swedish cities
- 2017
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In: Aerobiologia. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0393-5965 .- 1573-3025. ; 33:4, s. 457-471
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- © 2017 The Author(s)Exposure to elevated air pollution levels can aggravate pollen allergy symptoms. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between airborne birch (Betula) pollen, urban air pollutants NO2, O3 and PM10 and their effects on antihistamine demand in Gothenburg and Malmö, Sweden, 2006–2012. Further, the influence of large-scale weather pattern on pollen-/pollution-related risk, using Lamb weather types (LWTs), was analysed. Daily LWTs were obtained by comparing the atmospheric pressure over a 16-point grid system over southern Sweden (scale ~3000 km). They include two non-directional types, cyclonic (C) and anticyclonic (A) and eight directional types depending on the wind direction (N, NE, E…). Birch pollen levels were exceptionally high under LWTs E and SE in both cities. Furthermore, LWTs with dry and moderately calm meteorological character (A, NE, E, SE) were associated with strongly elevated air pollution (NO2 and PM10) in Gothenburg. For most weather situations in both cities, simultaneously high birch pollen together with high air pollution had larger over-the-counter (OTC) sales of antihistamines than situations with high birch pollen alone. LWTs NE, E, SE and S had the highest OTC sales in both cities. In Gothenburg, the city with a higher load of both birch pollen and air pollution, the higher OTC sales were especially obvious and indicate an increased effect on allergic symptoms from air pollution. Furthermore, Gothenburg LWTs A, NE, E and SE were associated with high pollen and air pollution levels and thus classified as high-risk weather types. In Malmö, corresponding high-risk LWTs were NE, E, SE and S. Furthermore, occurrence of high pollen and air pollutants as well as OTC sales correlated strongly with vapour pressure deficit and temperature in Gothenburg (much less so in Malmö). This provides evidence that the combination of meteorological properties associated with LWTs can explain high levels of birch pollen and air pollution. Our study shows that LWTs represent a useful tool for integrated daily air quality forecasting/warning.
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| 29. |
- Hellkvist, L., et al.
(author)
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High dose pollen intralymphatic immunotherapy: Two RDBPC trials question the benefit of dose increase
- 2022
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In: Allergy. - : Wiley. - 0105-4538 .- 1398-9995. ; 77:3, s. 883-96
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background The same dosing schedule, 1000 SQ-U times three, with one-month intervals, have been evaluated in most trials of intralymphatic immunotherapy (ILIT) for the treatment of allergic rhinitis (AR). The present studies evaluated if a dose escalation in ILIT can enhance the clinical and immunological effects, without compromising safety. Methods Two randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trials of ILIT for grass pollen-induced AR were performed. The first included 29 patients that had recently ended 3 years of SCIT and the second contained 39 not previously vaccinated patients. An up-dosage of 1000-3000-10,000 (5000 + 5000 with 30 minutes apart) SQ-U with 1 month in between was evaluated. Results Doses up to 10,000 SQ-U were safe after recent SCIT. The combined symptom-medication scores (CSMS) were reduced by 31% and the grass-specific IgG4 levels in blood were doubled. In ILIT de novo, the two first patients that received active treatment developed serious adverse reactions at 5000 SQ-U. A modified up-dosing schedule; 1000-3000-3000 SQ-U appeared to be safe but failed to improve the CSMS. Flow cytometry analyses showed increased activation of lymph node-derived dendritic but not T cells. Quality of life and nasal provocation response did not improve in any study. Conclusion Intralymphatic immunotherapy in high doses after SCIT appears to further reduce grass pollen-induced seasonal symptoms and may be considered as an add-on treatment for patients that do not reach full symptom control after SCIT. Up-dosing schedules de novo with three monthly injections that exceeds 3000 SQ-U should be avoided.
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| 30. |
- Karatzas, Kostas, et al.
(author)
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Allergy medication dose and biological weather.
- 2012
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In: International Journal of Artificial Intelligence. - 0974-0635. ; 9:12A, s. 90-105
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Biological weather factors like airborne pollen have been associated with allergic symptoms in sensitized individuals, whereas atmospheric pollution aggravates the impact on the overall quality of life. In this study, we investigate the relationship between the Defined Daily Dose (DDD) given to patients in cases of allergy reactions, and the different levels of pollen types, air pollutants, and meteorological conditions. In this way, specialists may be able to define the need for medication concerning individuals suffering from pollen allergy, not only according to their personal medical record but also in relation to atmospheric quality observations. Results indicate some interesting interrelationships between the use of medication and atmospheric quality conditions and show that the forecasting of daily medication use is possible with the aid of proper algorithms.
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| 31. |
- Kiotseridis, Hampus, et al.
(author)
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Grass pollen allergy in children and adolescents-symptoms, health related quality of life and the value of pollen prognosis
- 2013
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In: Clinical and Transnational Allergy. - 2045-7022. ; 3:19
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Abstract Introduction An association between pollen count (Poaceae) and symptoms is well known, but to a lesser degree the importance of priming and lag effects. Also, threshold levels for changes in symptom severity need to be validated. The present study aims to investigate the relationship between pollen counts, symptoms and health related quality of life (HRQL), and to validate thresholds levels, useful in public pollen warnings. Material and methods Children aged 7–18 with grass pollen allergy filled out a symptom diary during the pollen season for nose, eyes and lung symptoms, as well as a HRQL questionnaire every week. Pollen counts were monitored using a volumetric spore trap. Results 89 (91%) of the included 98 children completed the study. There was a clear association between pollen count, symptom severity and HRQL during the whole pollen season, but no difference in this respect between early and late pollen season. There was a lag effect of 1–3 days after pollen exposure except for lung symptoms. We found only two threshold levels, at 30 and 80 pollen grains/m3 for the total symptom score, not three as is used today. The nose and eyes reacted to low doses, but for the lung symptoms, symptom strength did hardly change until 50 pollen grains/m3. Conclusion Grass pollen has an effect on symptoms and HRQL, lasting up to 5 days after exposure. Symptoms from the lungs appear to have higher threshold levels than the eyes and the nose. Overall symptom severity does not appear to change during the course of season. Threshold levels need to be revised. We suggest a traffic light model for public pollen warnings directed to children, where green signifies “no problem”, yellow signifies “can be problems, especially if you are highly sensitive” and red signifies “alert – take action”.
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| 32. |
- Kiotseridis, Hampus, et al.
(author)
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Quality of life in children and adolescents with respiratory allergy, assessed with a generic and disease-specific instrument
- 2013
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In: Clinical Respiratory Journal. - 1752-6981. ; 7:2, s. 168-175
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction: Respiratory allergic disorders like rhinitis and asthma are common conditions that not only affect target organs, but complicate the daily life of affected children and adolescents. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the QoL (quality of life) in children with grass pollen allergy in and out of grass pollen season. Methods: We used the Pediatric Allergic Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire (PADQLQ), a disease-specific questionnaire including both asthma and rhinitis symptoms. We also used the DISABKIDS (a European project which aims at enhancing the quality of life and the independence of children with chronic health conditions and their families) questionnaire, a generic questionnaire covering non-organ-specific effects of disease. Results: Ninety-eight children 718 years old with grass pollen allergy were included. Eighty-nine children (91%) completed the study. The QoL was significantly decreased during pollen season assessed both with DISABKIDS and PADQLQ. The correlation between the questionnaires was 0.73. Not only the physical domain score (P=0.00093) but also the emotional domain score (P=0.034) was significantly lowered. Children with multiple manifestations (asthma and rhinitis) had lower QoL than children with rhinitis alone (P=0.01). Multiple regression analysis showed a highly significant impact on QoL for symptoms from nose, eyes and lungs. They were equally important (standardized coefficient 047, 0.47 and 0.46, respectively). Conclusion: The QoL in children and adolescents with respiratory allergy deteriorates during pollen season. This was shown both with generic (DISABKIDS) and disease-specific instrument (PADQLQ). Please cite this paper as: Kiotseridis H, Cilio CM, Bjermer L, Aurivillius M, Jacobsson H, Dahl angstrom and Tunsater A. Quality of life in children and adolescents with respiratory allergy, assessed with a generic and disease-specific instrument. Clin Respir J 2013; 7: 168175.
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| 33. |
- Klein, Thomas, et al.
(author)
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Interactions of physical, chemical, and biological weather calling for an integrated approach to assessment, forecasting, and communication of air quality.
- 2012
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In: Ambio. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0044-7447 .- 1654-7209. ; 41:8, s. 851-64
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This article reviews interactions and health impacts of physical, chemical, and biological weather. Interactions and synergistic effects between the three types of weather call for integrated assessment, forecasting, and communication of air quality. Today's air quality legislation falls short of addressing air quality degradation by biological weather, despite increasing evidence for the feasibility of both mitigation and adaptation policy options. In comparison with the existing capabilities for physical and chemical weather, the monitoring of biological weather is lacking stable operational agreements and resources. Furthermore, integrated effects of physical, chemical, and biological weather suggest a critical review of air quality management practices. Additional research is required to improve the coupled modeling of physical, chemical, and biological weather as well as the assessment and communication of integrated air quality. Findings from several recent COST Actions underline the importance of an increased dialog between scientists from the fields of meteorology, air quality, aerobiology, health, and policy makers.
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| 34. |
- Menzel, Annette, et al.
(author)
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European phenological response to climate change matches the warming pattern
- 2006
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In: Global Change Biology. - 1354-1013 .- 1365-2486. ; 12:10, s. 1969-1976
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Global climate change impacts can already be tracked in many physical and biological systems; in particular, terrestrial ecosystems provide a consistent picture of observed changes. One of the preferred indicators is phenology, the science of natural recurring events, as their recorded dates provide a high-temporal resolution of ongoing changes. Thus, numerous analyses have demonstrated an earlier onset of spring events for mid and higher latitudes and a lengthening of the growing season. However, published single-site or single-species studies are particularly open to suspicion of being biased towards predominantly reporting climate change-induced impacts. No comprehensive study or meta-analysis has so far examined the possible lack of evidence for changes or shifts at sites where no temperature change is observed. We used an enormous systematic phenological network data set of more than 125000 observational series of 542 plant and 19 animal species in 21 European countries (1971-2000). Our results showed that 78% of all leafing, flowering and fruiting records advanced (30% significantly) and only 3% were significantly delayed, whereas the signal of leaf colouring/fall is ambiguous. We conclude that previously published results of phenological changes were not biased by reporting or publication predisposition: the average advance of spring/summer was 2.5 days decade -1 in Europe. Our analysis of 254 mean national time series undoubtedly demonstrates that species' phenology is responsive to temperature of the preceding months (mean advance of spring/summer by 2.5 days °C -1, delay of leaf colouring and fall by 1.0 day °C -1). The pattern of observed change in spring efficiently matches measured national warming across 19 European countries (correlation coefficient r = -0.69, P < 0.001).
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| 35. |
- Myszkowska, D., et al.
(author)
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Unusually high birch (Betula spp.) pollen concentrations in Poland in 2016 related to long-range transport (LRT) and the regional pollen occurrence
- 2021
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In: Aerobiologia. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0393-5965 .- 1573-3025. ; 37:3, s. 543-559
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In 2016, the highest birch (Betula spp.) pollen concentrations were recorded in Krakow (Poland) since the beginning of pollen observations in 1991. The aim of this study was to ascertain the reason for this phenomenon, taking the local sources of pollen in Poland and long-range transport (LRT) episodes associated with the pollen influx from other European countries into account. Three periods of higher pollen concentrations in Krakow in 2016 were investigated with the use of pollen data, phenological data, meteorological data and the HYSPLIT numerical model to calculate trajectories up to 4 days back (96 h) at the selected Polish sites. From 5 to 8 April, the birch pollen concentrations increased in Krakow up to 4000 Pollen/m(3), although no full flowering of birch trees in the city was observed. The synoptic situation with air masses advection from the South as well as backward trajectories and the general birch pollen occurrence in Europe confirm that pollen was transported mainly from Serbia, Hungary, Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, into Poland. The second analyzed period (13-14 April) was related largely to the local flowering of birches, while the third one in May (6-7 May) mostly resulted from the birch pollen transport from Fennoscandia and the Baltic countries. Unusual high pollen concentrations at the beginning of the pollen season can augment the symptomatic burden of birch pollen allergy sufferers and should be considered during therapy. Such incidents also affect the estimation of pollen seasons timing and severity.
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| 36. |
- Papapostolou, Georgia, et al.
(author)
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Cognitive dysfunction and quality of life during pollen season in children with seasonal allergic rhinitis
- 2021
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In: Pediatric Allergy and Immunology. - : Wiley. - 0905-6157 .- 1399-3038. ; 32:1, s. 67-76
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Allergic rhinitis often gives rise to impaired quality of life and is believed to also affect cognitive function. We aimed to examine whether cognitive functions were impaired during grass pollen season in symptomatic allergic children and to relate the degree of impairment to quality of life and biomarkers related to stress and inflammation. Methods Forty-three grass pollen-allergic children (age 8-17 years) with non-satisfactory effect of medication (antihistamines and nasal steroids daily) during previous seasons were included. In addition, 26 matched non-allergic children were included as controls. Both groups performed cognitive tests (CANTAB) and completed Quality of Life questionnaires outside and during the pollen season. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for stress and inflammatory biomarkers. Pollen level was measured daily. Results Impaired cognitive function was found in spatial working memory, where the allergic group made more errors compared to the non-allergic group during pollen season, but not off-season. No significant differences could be seen between the allergic group and the controls in the other tests investigating visual memory or attention. Quality of health questionnaires revealed more symptoms and impaired quality of life in allergic compared to non-allergic children, and increased symptoms in allergic children were associated with longer reaction time for simple movement during pollen season. No differences in stress or inflammatory biomarkers could be found between the groups. Conclusion Cognitive function was affected during pollen season in pollen-allergic children, and the more symptoms the allergic children had, the longer the reaction time in the cognitive tests.
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| 37. |
- Prank, Marje, et al.
(author)
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An operational model for forecasting ragweed pollen release and dispersion in Europe.
- 2013
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In: Agricultural and Forest Meteorology. - : Elsevier BV. - 0168-1923. ; 182-183, s. 43-53
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The paper considers the possibilities of modelling the release and dispersion of the pollen of common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.), a highly allergenic invasive weed, which is spreading through southern and central Europe. In order to provide timely warnings for the allergy sufferers, a model was developed for forecasting ragweed pollen concentrations in the air. The development was based on the system for integrated modelling of atmospheric composition (SILAM) and concentrated on spatio-temporal modelling of ragweed flowering season and pollen release, which constitutes the emission term. Evaluation of the new model against multi-annual ragweed pollen observations demonstrated that the model reproduces well the main ragweed pollen season in the areas with major plant presence, such as the Pannonian Plain, the Lyon area in France, the Milan region in Italy, Ukraine and southern Russia. The predicted start of the season is mostly within 3 days of the observed for the majority of stations in these areas. The temporal correlation between modelled and observed concentrations exceeds 0.6 for the bulk of the stations. Model application to the seasons of 2005–2011 indicated the regions with high ragweed pollen concentrations, in particular the areas where allergenic thresholds are exceeded. It is demonstrated that, due to long-range transport of pollen, high-concentration areas are substantially more extensive than the heavily infested territories.
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| 38. |
- Ritenberga, O., et al.
(author)
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A statistical model for predicting the inter-annual variability of birch pollen abundance in Northern and North-Eastern Europe
- 2018
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In: Science of the Total Environment. - : Elsevier BV. - 0048-9697 .- 1879-1026. ; 615, s. 228-239
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The paper suggests a methodology for predicting next-year seasonal pollen index (SPI, a sum of daily-mean pollen concentrations) over large regions and demonstrates its performance for birch in Northern and North-Eastern Europe. A statistical model is constructed using meteorological, geophysical and biological characteristics of the previous year). A cluster analysis of multi-annual data of European Aeroallergen Network (EAN) revealed several large regions in Europe, where the observed SPI exhibits similar patterns of the multi-annual variability. We built the model for the northern cluster of stations, which covers Finland, Sweden, Baltic States, part of Belarus, and, probably, Russia and Norway, where the lack of data did not allow for conclusive analysis. The constructed model was capable of predicting the SPI with correlation coefficient reaching up to 0.9 for some stations, odds ratio is infinitely high for 50% of sites inside the region and the fraction of prediction falling within factor of 2 from observations, stays within 40–70%. In particular, model successfully reproduced both the bi-annual cycle of the SPI and years when this cycle breaks down. © 2017 Elsevier B.V.
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| 39. |
- Sikoparija, B., et al.
(author)
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A mechanism for long distance transport of Ambrosia pollen from the Pannonian Plain
- 2013
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In: Agricultural and Forest Meteorology. - : Elsevier BV. - 0168-1923 .- 1873-2240. ; 180, s. 112-117
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The pollen grains of ragweed are important aeroallergens that have the potential to be transported long distances through the air. The arrival of ragweed pollen in Nordic countries from the Pannonian Plain can occur when certain conditions are met, which this study aims to describe for the first time. Atmospheric ragweed pollen concentrations were collected at 16 pollen-monitoring sites. Other factors included in the analysis were the overall synoptic weather situation, surface wind speeds, wind direction and temperatures as well as examining regional scale orography and satellite observations. Hot and dry weather in source areas on the Pannonian Plain aid the release of ragweed pollen during the flowering season and result in the deep Planetary Boundary Layers needed to lift the pollen over the Carpathian Mountains to the north. Suitable synoptic conditions are also required for the pollen bearing air masses to move northward. These same conditions produce the jet-effect Kosava and orographic foehn winds that aid the release and dispersal of ragweed pollen and contribute towards its movement into Poland and beyond.
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| 40. |
- Sikoparija, B., et al.
(author)
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Spatial and temporal variations in airborne Ambrosia pollen in Europe
- 2017
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In: Aerobiologia. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0393-5965 .- 1573-3025. ; 33, s. 181-189
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- © 2016, The Author(s). The European Commission Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) Action FA1203 “SMARTER” aims to make recommendations for the sustainable management of Ambrosia across Europe and for monitoring its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The goal of the present study is to provide a baseline for spatial and temporal variations in airborne Ambrosia pollen in Europe that can be used for the management and evaluation of this noxious plant. The study covers the full range of Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. distribution over Europe (39°N–60°N; 2°W–45°E). Airborne Ambrosia pollen data for the principal flowering period of Ambrosia (August–September) recorded during a 10-year period (2004–2013) were obtained from 242 monitoring sites. The mean sum of daily average airborne Ambrosia pollen and the number of days that Ambrosia pollen was recorded in the air were analysed. The mean and standard deviation (SD) were calculated regardless of the number of years included in the study period, while trends are based on those time series with 8 or more years of data. Trends were considered significant at p<0.05. There were few significant trends in the magnitude and frequency of atmospheric Ambrosia pollen (only 8% for the mean sum of daily average Ambrosia pollen concentrations and 14% for the mean number of days Ambrosia pollen were recorded in the air). The direction of any trends varied locally and reflected changes in sources of the pollen, either in size or in distance from the monitoring station. Pollen monitoring is important for providing an early warning of the expansion of this invasive and noxious plant.
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| 41. |
- Skröder, Carl, et al.
(author)
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Limited beneficial effects of systemic steroids when added to standard of care treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis
- 2023
-
In: Scientific Reports. - 2045-2322. ; 13:1
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Intramuscular injections with methylprednisolone treating allergic rhinitis (AR) have a long history. Modern guidelines are designed todissuade this treatment, but it´s frequently used, especially in primary care. This despite of concern for side effects and lack of modern placebo-controlled studies. This study was designed to evaluate if methylprednisolone, could significantly improve symptoms of birch pollen induced AR and reduce the concomitant use of standard of care medication. Forty-two patients with birch pollen induced AR were randomized to treatment with methylprednisolone (80 mg) or placebo (NaCl 0.9%). Daily symptom- and medication scores was registered for 3 weeks. Quality of life questionnaires Sino-nasal Outcome Test-22 (SNOT-22) and Juniper Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionaire (Juniper RQLQ) were registered at trial start and at the end of the 3 weeks period. The combined symptom- and medication scores indicate that the methylprednisolone treated group [mean Area Under the Curve (AUC) 37.1 (SD 16.2 (95% CI 29.9–44.6))] was significantly better off than the placebo group [mean AUC 49.1 (SD 10.1 (95% CI 44.5–53.7))], p = 0.008. No significant difference between the groups were found in the SNOT-22 and Juniper RQLQ analysis. Registered side effects were few and mild. The limited beneficial effects of systemic steroids when added to standard of care in combination of its potential risk for side effects, speaks against its use for treatment of severe seasonal allergic rhinitis. The lack of difference in quality-of-life further underscores this result.
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| 42. |
- Sofiev, Mikhail, et al.
(author)
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Airborne pollen transport.
- 2013
-
In: In: Sofiev, M and Bergman, KC (eds.): Allergenic Pollen. A review of the production, release, distribution and health impacts.. - Dordrecht Heidelberg New York London : Springer Science + Business Media. - 9789400748804 ; , s. 127-159
-
Book chapter (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This chapter reviews the present knowledge and previous developments concerning the pollen transport in the atmosphere. Numerous studies are classified according to the spatial scales of the applications, key processes considered, and the methodology involved. Space-wise, local, regional and long-range scales are distinguished. An attempt of systematization is made towards the key processes responsiblefor the observed patterns: initial dispersion of pollen grains in the nearest vicinity of the sources at micro-scale, transport with the wind, mixing inside the atmospheric boundary layer and dry and wet removal at the regional scale, and the long-range dispersion with synoptic scale-wind, exchange between the boundary layer and free troposphere, roles of dry and wet removal, interactions with chemicals and solar radiation at the large scales. Atmospheric dispersion modelling can pursue two goals: estimation of concentrations from known source (forward problem), and the source apportionment (inverse problem). Historically, the inverse applications were made first, mainly using the simple trajectory models. The sophisticated integrated systems capable of simulating all main processes of pollen lifecycle have been emerging only during the last decade using experience of the atmospheric chemical composition modelling. Several studies suggest the allergen existence in the atmosphere separately from the pollen grains - as observed in different parts of the world. However, there is no general understanding of the underlying processes, and the phenomenon itself is still debated. Another new area with strongly insufficient knowledge is the interactions of airborne allergens and chemical pollutants.
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| 43. |
- Sofiev, M., et al.
(author)
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Designing an automatic pollen monitoring network for direct usage of observations to reconstruct the concentration fields
- 2023
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In: SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT. - 0048-9697. ; 900
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- We consider several approaches to a design of a regional-to-continent-scale automatic pollen monitoring network in Europe. Practical challenges related to the arrangement of such a network limit the range of possible solutions. A hierarchical network is discussed, highlighting the necessity of a few reference sites that follow an extended observations protocol and have corresponding capabilities. Several theoretically rigorous approaches to a network design have been developed so far. However, before starting the process, a network purpose, a criterion of its performance, and a concept of the data usage should be formalized. For atmospheric composition monitoring, developments follow one of the two concepts: a network for direct representation of concentration fields and a network for model-based data assimilation, inverse problem solution, and forecasting. The current paper demonstrates the first approach, whereas the inverse problems are considered in a follow-up paper. We discuss the approaches for the network design from theoretical and practical standpoints, formulate criteria for the network optimality, and consider practical constraints for an automatic pollen network. An application of the methodology is demonstrated for a prominent example of Germany's pollen monitoring network. The multi-step method includes (i) the network representativeness and (ii) redundancy evaluation followed by (iii) fidelity evaluation and improvement using synthetic data.
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| 44. |
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| 45. |
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| 46. |
- Usoltseva, Marina, 1959, et al.
(author)
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Svampsituationen från norr till söder
- 2014
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In: Greenbladet. - 1102-5018. ; 31:3, s. 50-52
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Journal article (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Våren har i år varit ovanligt tidig, varm och relativt fuktig, i kontrast till hur det var förra året, då marken förblev frusen länge och känsliga växter drabbades av "tjältorka" när vårsolen gassade på utan att de kunde komma åt något vatten. Golfsäsongen kom i år i gång i genomsnitt fem-sex veckor tidigare än vanligt. I Stockholmstrakten öppnades några klubbar redan i februari, vilket aldrig har hänt förut. I Skåne har många klubbar varit öppna hela tiden. Golfspelarna har alltså inte behövt ha särskilt långvariga abstinensbesvär, i varje fall inte i södra Sverige. Men det har tyvärr inte svamparna heller haft; för flera av dem ha vintern varit synnerligen angenäm - särskilt som en del kunde ta fart redan under 2013.
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| 47. |
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| 48. |
- Verstraeten, A., et al.
(author)
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Effects of tree pollen on throughfall element fluxes in European forests
- 2023
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In: Biogeochemistry. - Göteborg : Springer. - 0168-2563 .- 1573-515X. ; 165:3, s. 311-325
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The effects of tree pollen on precipitation chemistry are not fully understood and this can lead to misinterpretations of element deposition in European forests. We investigated the relationship between forest throughfall (TF) element fluxes and the Seasonal Pollen Integral (SPIn) using linear mixed-effects modelling (LME). TF was measured in 1990-2018 during the main pollen season (MPS, arbitrary two months) in 61 managed, mostly pure, even-aged Fagus, Quercus, Pinus, and Picea stands which are part of the ICP Forests Level II network. The SPIn for the dominant tree genus was observed at 56 aerobiological monitoring stations in nearby cities. The net contribution of pollen was estimated as the TF flux in the MPS minus the fluxes in the preceding and succeeding months. In stands of Fagus and Picea, two genera that do not form large amounts of flowers every year, TF fluxes of potassium (K+), ammonium-nitrogen (NH4+-N), dissolved organic carbon (DOC), and dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) showed a positive relationship with SPIn. However- for Fagus- a negative relationship was found between TF nitrate-nitrogen (NO3--N) fluxes and SPIn. For Quercus and Pinus, two genera producing many flowers each year, SPIn displayed limited variability and no clear association with TF element fluxes. Overall, pollen contributed on average 4.1-10.6% of the annual TF fluxes of K+ > DOC > DON > NH4+--N with the highest contribution in Quercus > Fagus > Pinus > Picea stands. Tree pollen appears to affect TF inorganic nitrogen fluxes both qualitatively and quantitatively, acting as a source of NH4+--N and a sink of NO3--N. Pollen appears to play a more complex role in nutrient cycling than previously thought.
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| 49. |
- Zemmer, F., et al.
(author)
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A multidisciplinary approach of outdoor aeroallergen selection for Skin Prick Testing in the geographical area of Greater Istanbul
- 2022
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In: European Annals of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. - 1764-1489. ; 54:1, s. 34-42
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background. Aeroallergen selection for skin prick testing and the interpretation of results need to be in line with allergenic sources of a specific geographic area. Objective. To identify aeroallergens for a skin test panel for the specific geographical area of Istanbul in a multidisciplinary approach based on aerobiological parameters, cross-reactivity patterns and clinical symptoms. Methods. Aerobiological parameters, cross reactivity patterns and the European Standard Skin Prick Test Panel determined allergen selection. Atopic adult patients (n = 60) compiled a questionnaire and were skin prick tested with 29 aeroallergens. Aerobiological sampling followed the requirements of the European Aerobiology Society. Results were statistically analyzed. Results. 65% of patients had positive skin reactions. Sensitization to at least one grass allergen was 30%. Key grass allergens were timothy grass (Phleum pratense L.) 25.8% and Johnson grass (Sor-ghum halepense (L.) Pers.) 22.6%; correlations between grass-sensitizations were significant at p < 0.01 and so was the correlation of Pooideae sensitization with symptoms and medication. Sensitization to at least one woody plant was 23%; to ash (Fraxinus excelsior L.) 8.1%; hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.), olive (Olea europaea L.) and mulberry (Morus alba L.) 6.5%; juniper (Juniperus ashei J. Buchholz) 4.8%. Correlations between Fagales allergen sensitizations were significant. Sensitization to at least one weed was 22%, sensitization to dock (Rumex crispus L.) 12.9%, ragweed (Ambro-sia artemisiifolia L.), and mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris L.) 4.8%. Sensitization rates correlated significantly with the length of the Main Pollen Season. Conclusions. The European Standard Panel is suitable for the geographical area of Greater Istanbul, if it comprises Johnson grass and ash. Ragweed has become clinically relevant in this region. Mulberry and dock were exclusively associated to polysensitized individuals suggesting pan-allergen involvement. © 2022, EDRA S.p.A. All rights reserved.
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| 50. |
- Zemmer, F., et al.
(author)
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The duration and severity of the allergenic pollen season in Istanbul, and the role of meteorological factors
- 2022
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In: Aerobiologia. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0393-5965 .- 1573-3025. ; 38, s. 195-215
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Information on the allergenic pollen season provides insight on the state of the environment of a region and facilitates allergy symptom management. We present a retrospective analysis of the duration and severity of the allergenic pollen season and the role of meteorological factors in Istanbul, Turkey. Aerobiological sampling from January 2013 to June 2016, pollen identification and counting followed current standard methodology. Pollen seasons were defined according to 95% of the Annual Pollen Integral (APIn) and the season start date was compared with the first day of 5 day consecutive non-zero records. Generalized additive models (GAMs) were created to study the effect of meteorological factors on flowering. The main pollen contributors were taxa of temperate and Mediterranean climates, and neophytic Ambrosia. Cupressaceae, Poaceae, Pinaceae, Quercus and Ambrosia had the greatest relative abundance. The pollen season defined on 95% of the APIn was adequate for our location with total APIns around 10.000 pollen*day*m(-3). Woody taxa had generally shorter seasons than herbaceous taxa. In trees, we see precipitation as the main limiting factor for assimilate production prior to anthesis. A severe tree pollen season in 2016 suggests intense synchronous flowering across taxa and populations triggered by favourable water supply in the preceding year. GAM models can explain the effect of weather on pollen concentrations during anthesis. Under the climatic conditions over the study period, temperature had a negative effect on spring flowering trees, and a positive one on summer flowering weeds. Humidity, atmospheric pressure and precipitation had a negative effect on weeds. Our findings contribute to environmental and allergological knowledge in southern Europe and Turkey with relevancy in the assessment of impacts of climate change and the management of allergic disease.
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