Research Project-1

University Of Cincinnati, Cincinnati OH

Investigators

Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract Extreme temperatures have been affecting Cincinnati and other Midwest and Appalachian cities in the summer months, leading to a heightened risk of heat-related illness (HRI). Notably, individuals' susceptibility to HRI severity and recovery varies due to several factors, including their occupations, the indoor and outdoor temperatures of their housing, their age and underlying health conditions. Given these variations, a personalized approach is imperative to mitigate the risk of HRI. This project will explore the effects of heat stress among firefighters and elderly individuals residing in neighborhoods using a combination of self-reported data, wearable sensors, and transcriptomic signatures in the following aims: Aim 1: Determine variation in severity of biometric responses and HRI in firefighters during live burn training and its prediction of biometric measures during the week following exposure. Before, during, and for 3 h after training, core body temperature (CBT), heart rate (HR), and heart rate variability (HRV) will be measured in 24 firefighters. Neurological assessments will include fatigue/body discomfort and sleepiness surveys, postural balance, gait function and dual task tests. Whole blood and nasal swabs will be collected 1 week before, immediately after, and 3 days after exposure. Aim 2. Determine the association between exposure to elevated temperature and humidity and HRI among susceptible elderly individuals as measured by self-reported symptoms and Oura Ring biometrics. A panel study will be conducted involving elderly individuals (>50 yr, n=48) living in neighborhoods vulnerable to the effects of extreme climate due to poor tree canopy coverage and high indoor temperatures of their homes. In-home temperature and humidity, weekly Oura Ring biometrics, and heat-related health questionnaires will be collected. Nasal swabs will be obtained for analysis in Aim 3. Aim 3. Determine whether nasal transcriptomic signatures can predict heat-related illness in individuals with increased susceptibility to extreme heat. Changes in nasal transcriptomics will be assessed within-subject using specimens obtained before and after an extreme heat event [live burn training (Aim 1) or heat waves (Aim 2)]. RNA sequencing will be performed on firefighter whole blood and nasal and nasal specimens from older adult Cincinnati residents. Using biometric variables for classification, we will compare responders from non-responders with similar heat exposures and compare their transcriptomes. Understanding the transcriptomic signature of heat stress and its implications for both firefighters and local residents in heat-affected neighborhoods is of high significance and potential for public health impact. This research addresses the immediate health risks posed by rising temperatures and contributes to the development of personalized risk management strategies. By identifying biomarkers and susceptibility factors, this study paves the way for targeted interventions, ultimately enhancing public health preparedness for extreme temperatures.