Respiratory
INTRODUCTION Mitochondria are organelles (subcellular structures conducting specific tasks) found within the cells of our bodies. Such organelles are involved in several critical processes to include reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, cell survival, cell signalling, apoptosis (cell death), several metabolic pathways, and energy production via adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis; its most widely known contribution.1,2 As…
PLASTIC BASICS Plastics tend to constitute an estimated 10% of total household waste, most of which are disposed of in landfills.1 Plastics are made of a wide variety of synthetic and semi-synthetic organic substances, which allow for various molded objects and shapes. Due to the multiple uses and durability of plastic, production is high; in…
Asthma is a product of a well-known overactive immune response that targets the lungs and effects an estimated 300 million individuals.1 Its symptoms include wheezing/shortness of breath/coughing and the understanding of its causes has grown to include genetic and other drivers.1(189) As research has mounted regarding the pathophysiology of asthma, more evidence has suggested that nutritional…
Poor indoor air quality is a chief cause of illness for individuals (Williams, 2012). Buildings are generally tightly sealed designed to conserve energy. However, contaminants from paint, carpets, and other building materials become trapped and circulate causing symptoms such as headaches, sore throat, and respiratory problems (Williams, 2012). Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are common indoor air pollutants…
Emphysema and chronic bronchitis often occur together. When they do, such a disorder is known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (Reisner & Reisner, 2017). COPD is often characterized by dyspnea (shortness of breath) and cyanosis (blue skin from reduced hemoglobin in blood). Individuals suffering from COPD will frequently have shortness of breath (emphysema), especially upon…