Links
to Journal Articles Delivered Directly to Your Computer
The latest links to journal article abstracts on Respiratory, Pulmonary,
COPD, Mechanical Ventilation,
Ventilator Weaning, Respiratory Therapy, Asthma, Cardio-Vascular, Sleep
Apnea, CPAP, BiPAP, Decannulation and other related clinical topics. Add the Northeast Center for Special
Care Journal Watch
to your favorite RSS program.
Journal of Burn Care & Research:Volume 30(2)March/April 2009pp 249-256
To determine whether the combination of aerosolized unfractionated heparin and
N-acetylcystine reduces 28-days mortality and lung injury scores
(LISs) in adult patients with smoke inhalation injury requiring mechanical ventilation.
Journal of Thoracic Imaging:Volume 24(1)February 2009pp 52-55
We report the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) findings of a patient who presented with lower thoracic pain, nausea, and vomiting and had a CT scan of the chest in which a well-defined homogeneous mass was identified.
Journal of Thoracic Imaging:Volume 24(1)February 2009pp 41-44
We report the case of pulmonary benign metastasizing leiomyoma in an asymptomatic 64-year-old woman who underwent hysterectomy for a uterine leiomyoma 26 years earlier. Routine chest radiograph revealed bilateral diffuse nodular opacities within the pulmonary lobes.
We report the case of a 9-year-old male patient with severe bronchial asthma, who had not received inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) despite persistent asthma symptoms and 2 life-threatening asthma attacks.
British Journal of Radiology 2009, doi:10.1259/bjr/27942950
The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the exposure (speed) class (EC) of an Agfa computed radiography (CR) system could be used to optimize chest radiography.
British Journal of Radiology 2009, doi:10.1259/bjr/51749983
The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a technique for three-dimensional (3-D) modelling of small lung nodules on paediatric multi-detector array computed tomography
(MDCT) images. Clinical images were selected from 21 patients (<18 years old) who underwent MDCT examinations.
Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. 2009, doi:10.1164/rccm.200811-1678OC
It has been proposed that an activated renin angiotensin system (RAS) causes an imbalance between the vasoconstrictive and vasodilator mechanisms involving the pulmonary circulation leading to the development of pulmonary hypertension (PH).
Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. 2009, doi:10.1164/rccm.200804-529OC
The inadequacy of effector T cell response in containment of tubercle bacilli is thought to result in the development of disseminated forms of tuberculosis (TB) such as miliary tuberculosis
(MTB).
Journal of Pediatric Infectious Diseases Volume 4, Number 1 / 2009 27-35
Lung abscess is an uncommon but challenging condition to manage. Predisposing factors including pulmonary aspiration and impaired mucociliary defense mechanisms increase the likelihood of developing a secondary lung abscess.
Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. 2009, doi:10.1164/rccm.200808-1313OC
According to the 2002 ATS/ERS Consensus Classification, a confident diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
(IPF) without surgical lung biopsy is made with consistent clinical/physiological findings and the typical features on high-resolution computed tomography
(HRCT).
Eosinophilic lung diseases comprise a group of heterogeneous pulmonary disorders linked by increased eosinophils in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid
(BALF). There is supporting evidence that natural killer (NK) cells participate in the regulation of eosinophilic inflammation.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 105 - 112
There are a number of useful direct airway sampling procedures to help diagnose and monitor asthma in patients. However, non-invasive techniques are the ideal, especially in children, given the necessity of safe and repeatable measurements to monitor treatment efficacy and disease progression.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 136 - 141
To examine the relationship between depressive symptoms and asthma beliefs (self-efficacy and empowerment), child asthma outcomes, and caregiver's quality of life among Puerto Rican caregivers of children with asthma.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 126 - 129
Alexithymia is a personality trait associated with difficulty identifying and verbalizing feelings. It has been associated with poorly controlled asthma and near-fatal asthma.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 165 - 170
Local nasal immunotherapy (LNIT) has been reported to be effective for mite-induced allergic rhinitis. However, its compliance is poor due to persistent nasal reactions and difficult application.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 186 - 190
To evaluate the relative impact of reported symptoms, school absenteeism, hospital admission, medical visits, and the presence of emotional and behavioral disorders on the health-related quality of life
(HRQL) of low income asthmatic adolescents.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 122 - 125
Spirometry is the gold standard for assessment of asthma and is objective and non-invasive. This is a pilot study to evaluate whether portable spirometry can be successfully performed by children in the pediatric emergency department for acute exacerbations of asthma.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 175 - 178
Consanguinity is known to increase the burden of genetic disorders among offspring. However, the effect of consanguinity on a complex disorder like childhood asthma has not been studied previously.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 147 - 152
The two obstructive airway diseases bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD) represent major global causes of disability and death.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 160 - 164
The recent Global Initiative for Asthma guideline states that inhaled corticosteroids
(ICSs) may induce osteoporosis as a systemic adverse effect. New
ICSs, such as fluticasone propionate, have a high topical potency and may therefore induce tooth problems as a result of direct exposure without hepatic metabolism more frequently than older
ICSs.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 191 - 193
Efficacy of bronchodilator treatment in children with asthma depends on the proper use of inhalation devices. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of inhaled bronchodilator treatment with a spacer and a nebulizer in children with acute asthma findings.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 130 - 135
Several international asthma guidelines emphasize the importance of assessing asthma control. However, there is limited data on the usefulness of available assessment tools in indicating disease control in young asthmatics.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 207 - 209
Asthma is characterized by inflammation and airway hyperesponsiveness, which results in episodic airflow obstruction. A relationship between inflammation and insulin resistance
(IR) has been previously characterized, and asthma is known to correlate with increasing IR.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 142 - 146
The purpose of this study was to assess the effect on bone mineral density (BMD) of systemic corticosteroid
(SCS) intermittently administered for rescue from asthmatic exacerbation.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 156 - 159
Exercise induced broncho-constriction (EIB) is a significant problem in asthmatic patients. The link between allergic rhinitis and asthma is now well established. Patients with allergic rhinitis may have
EIB.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 113 - 117
A number of educational programs have focused on promoting the knowledge of asthma to health care professionals, but not teaching competency. Increasing the cognition of self-efficacy on patient teaching could enhance the competency in teaching for patients with asthma.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 171 - 174
To examine the prevalence and natural course of asthma from childhood to adolescence in a population-based, Greek birth cohort and to identify associated factors.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 202 - 206
Residents of public housing can experience socioeconomic disadvantages, inadequate access to health care, and particularly substandard indoor air quality due to inadequate building maintenance.
Journal of Asthma, Volume 46, Issue 2 March 2009 , pages 194 - 201
Asthma management programs (AMP) may reduce costs and improve outcomes in patients with moderate to severe asthma. However, it is not known which personnel are best able to deliver such interventions and what settings are most effective.
Childhood obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is suggested to be associated with cardiac structural abnormalities and dysfunction but existing evidence is limited and the treatment effect on echocardiographic outcome remains controversial.
Previous studies have suggested that preterm birth with or without subsequent chronic lung disease is associated with reduced functional residual capacity
(FRC) and increased ventilation inhomogeneity in the neonatal period.
The World Health Organization recommends immunisation of pregnant women with inactivated influenza vaccine to reduce the risks associated with influenza infection in mothers and infants; however, the vaccine is not licensed for infants under 6 months of age.
A 78-year-old never-smoking Caucasian woman presented with a 4-month history of persistent dry cough and episodic severe dyspnoea with inspiratory stridor and chest pain.
Asthma and allergic rhinitis are thought to be associated, but the exact relationship is not clear. This study investigated the onset of asthma in patients with allergic and non-allergic rhinitis, analysing follow-up data from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey
(ECRHS).
Management of recurrent malignant pleural effusions is a common problem. At present the agent of choice is intrapleural talc, but it is not without side effects.
Influenza and complications associated with influenza including pneumonia impose a significant burden on the healthcare system, particularly in elderly individuals. Although the influenza vaccine could potentially reduce the risk of complications, its benefit in this group remains doubtful.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects both pulmonary and non-pulmonary systems and results in a wide range of physical functional limitations in sufferers.
A 75-year-old female non-smoker was admitted for investigation of suspected interstitial lung disease. A left lower lobe transbronchial lung biopsy was performed, complicated by suspected bilateral
pneumothoraces, pneumomediastinum and surgical emphysema (fig 1). Bilateral intercostal catheters
(ICCs) were inserted.
Low birth weight is associated with lower values for spirometry in adults but it is not known if birth weight influences other measures of pulmonary function. It is also unclear whether postnatal growth affects adult lung function.
Patients with symptoms of GOLD stage I chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD) can have significant abnormalities of ventilatory mechanics with greater exertional symptoms and exercise limitation than age-matched healthy subjects.
A patient with chronic flail chest, severe persistent pain and chest wall deformity was successfully managed with open reduction and internal fixation of the ribs and application of a novel osteogenic protein.
Deciding what risks to disclose before a procedure is often challenging for clinicians. Consecutive patients undergoing elective fibreoptic bronchoscopy were randomised to receive simple or more detailed written information about the risks of the procedure and the effects on anxiety and satisfaction levels were compared.
Although several risk factors for asthma have been identified in infants and young children with recurrent wheeze, the relevance of assessing lung function in this group remains unclear.
Because asthma has been associated with exercise and ozone exposure, an association likely mediated by oxidative stress, we hypothesised that
glutathione-S-transferase (GST)P1, GSTM1, exercise and ozone exposure have interrelated effects on the pathogenesis of asthma.
Respiratory Research 2009, 10:12doi:10.1186/1465-9921-10-12
Desmosine and Isodesmosine (D/I) are cross-linking amino acids which are present only in mature
elastin. Changes in their concentration in body fluids indicate changes in elastin degradation and can be a reflection of tissue elastase activity.
Respiratory Research 2009, 10:14doi:10.1186/1465-9921-10-14
Recent evidence has exerted the role of hypoxia and angiogenesis in the pathogenesis of idiopathic fibrotic lung disease. Inhibitor of growth family member 4 (ING4) has recently drugged much of attention as a tumor suppressor gene, due to its ability to inhibit cancer cell proliferation, migration and angiogenesis.
Respiratory Research 2009, 10:13doi:10.1186/1465-9921-10-13
Decreased infiltration of Foxp3+ T regulatory cell (Treg) is considered to be critical for the Th1/Th2 dysregulation of nasal polyps, while the cellular mechanism underlying Foxp3+ Treg insufficiency is currently not well defined.
BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth 2009, 9:6doi:10.1186/1471-2393-9-6
Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, as a consequence of preterm birth, is a major cause of early mortality and morbidity during infancy and childhood. Survivors of preterm birth continue to remain at considerable risk of both chronic lung disease and long-term neurological handicap.
The purpose of the Enhanced Particulate Matter Surveillance Program was to provide scientifically founded information on the chemical and physical properties of dust collected over a period of approximately 1 year in Djibouti, Afghanistan
(Bagram, Khowst), Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Iraq (Balad, Baghdad,
Tallil, Tikrit, Taji, Al Asad), and Kuwait (northern, central, coastal, and southern regions).
Eisenmenger syndrome (ES), the most advanced form of pulmonary arterial hypertension
(PAH) associated with congenital heart disease, is a devastating condition that has a considerable impact on patients' lives. Patients who develop ES typically exhibit 1 or more of a range of cardiac defects, including ventricular septal defects, atrial septal defects, and patent ductus
arteriosus.
The European Journal of General Practice, Volume 14, Issue 3 & 4 2008 , pages 123 - 128
It has been shown previously that mortality from acute chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD) is higher at small hospitals than at large teaching hospitals. Objective: To examine mortality at this acute stage and referral for further treatment by specialities in Finland, and trends in these between the 1990s and 2000s.
BMC Public Health 2009, 9:68doi:10.1186/1471-2458-9-68
The diagnosis and treatment of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD) in Spain continues to present challenges, and problems are exacerbated when there is a lack of coordinated follow-up between levels of care.
Emerging Infectious Diseases Volume 15, Number 3-March 2009
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), associated with Merkel cell carcinoma, was detected in 27 of 635 nasopharyngeal aspirate samples by real-time
PCR. MCPyV was more commonly found in adults than in children. Presence in the upper respiratory tract may be a general property of human
PyVs.
We report a case in which the common trunk of the left pulmonary vein was injured incidentally due to a misunderstanding of the anatomy. After cutting the trunk, we recognized that the vessel included not only the superior but also the inferior component of the pulmonary vein.
We report 3 patients with lung cancer complicated with interstitial pneumonia who were treated by percutaneous computed tomography-guided radiofrequency ablation. Patient 1 recovered from a pneumothorax without chest drainage.
Alveolar adenoma (AA) is a rare lung benign tumor originated from type II
pneumocytes. It presents as a well-defined nodule in clinical images, but is difficult to differentiate from early-stage lung cancer.
In acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), adequate positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) may decrease ventilator-induced lung injury by minimizing overinflation and cyclic
recruitment-derecruitment of the lung.
Of the idiopathic lung diseases, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and sarcoidosis have been the focus of a growing number of epidemiological investigations on the risk of environmental and occupational exposures.
Thorax. Published Online First: 12 February 2009. doi:10.1136/thx.2008.108274
Sleep hypoventilation has been proposed as a cause of progressive hypercapnic respiratory failure and death in patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD).
Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine:Volume 15(2)March 2009p 113-119
This review summarizes the literature on adult or acquired tracheobronchomalacia
(TBM) and explores its association with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD).
Thorax. Published Online First: 12 February 2009. doi:10.1136/thx.2008.110239
The optimal method for diagnosing ventilator-associated pneumonia is controversial and its effect on reported incidence uncertain. This study aimed to model the impact of using either endotracheal aspirate or bronchoalveolar lavage on the reported incidence of pneumonia.
International Journal of Emergency Medicine 1865-1372 (Print) 10.1007/s12245-009-0088-9
The usual method for initial assessment of an acute asthma attack in the emergency room includes the use of peak flow measurement and clinical parameters.
International Journal of COPD Published: February 2009
Reticular basement membrane (RBM) thickening has been variably associated with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD). Even if RBM thickness is similar in both diseases, its composition might still differ.
This overview of the epidemiology of pertussis in Germany is based on surveillance data from the former German Democratic Republic (GDR) and five former East German states
(FEG) after reunification, published surveys, as well as national hospital and mortality
statis-tics.
Emerging Infectious Diseases Volume 15, Number 3-March 2009
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) DNA was detected in 7 (1.3%) of 526 respiratory tract samples from patients in Australia with upper or lower respiratory tract symptoms. Partial T antigen and major capsid protein sequences of MCPyV identified in respiratory secretions showed high homology (99%-100%) to those found in Merkel cell carcinoma.
Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, March 2009, p. 1107-1115, Vol. 53, No. 3
Penicillin-binding protein 2x (PBP2x) of Streptococcus pneumoniae represents a primary resistance determinant for
beta-lactams, and low-affinity PBP2x variants can easily be selected with
cefotaxime. Penicillin-resistant clinical isolates of S. pneumoniae frequently contain in their mosaic PBP2x the mutation T338A adjacent to the active site S337, and T338P as well as T338G substitutions are also known.
Medical Hypotheses Received 2 December 2008; accepted 7 December 2008. published online 24 February 2009
Hemolysis-associated pulmonary hypertension (HA-PH) is a serious clinical complication of various hemolytic disorders, and pulmonary hypertension (PH) is considered the greatest risk factor for death in patients with a hemolytic disorder.
International Journal of COPD Published: February 2009
Currently available long-acting inhaled bronchodilators (tiotropium, salmeterol,
formoterol) have demonstrated beneficial effects on exacerbations in placebo-controlled trials. However, there have been no direct comparisons of these drugs with exacerbations as the primary outcome and consequently COPD treatment guidelines do not indicate a preference for either bronchodilator.
PLoS ONE 4(2): e4589. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0004589
Sleep is generally considered to be a restorative process, having beneficial effects on immune functions. Partial loss of sleep is common among people who experience environmental or psychological stress such as travelling across time zones, having to do shift work, and in those individuals with psychiatric or physical disorders.
Pathology International, Volume 59, Number 3, March 2009 , pp. 175-178(4)
An autopsy case of pulmonary zygomycosis in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis on immunosuppressive therapy is presented herein. There was a pulmonary cavitated infarct caused by mycotic thrombosis.
Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine:Volume 15(2)March 2009p 143-149
Symptoms of anxiety and depression are prevalent in at least 20-40% of patients with moderate-to-severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD) and are known to affect prognosis and worsen quality of life. This review examines whether pulmonary rehabilitation can effectively improve psychological status in COPD patients.
Thorax. Published Online First: 12 February 2009. doi:10.1136/thx.2008.105031
Transbronchial lung biopsy (TBB) has a variable diagnostic yield in sarcoidosis. We hypothesised that the extent and pattern of parenchymal disease on CT would predict the likelihood of a positive
TBB.
Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine:Volume 15(2)March 2009p 165-169
This review aims to present the clinician with a synthesis of recent studies that have enhanced our understanding of the epidemiology and pathogenesis of beryllium hypersensitivity
(BeH) and chronic beryllium disease (CBD).
Thorax. Published Online First: 12 February 2009. doi:10.1136/thx.2008.095547
Hospitalisation due to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in the first two years after birth has been associated with increased healthcare utilisation and associated costs up to five years of age in children born prematurely at less than 32 weeks of gestation who developed bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).
Journal of Computer Assisted Tomography:Volume 33(1)January/February 2009pp 42-48
To study the initial findings of lung adenocarcinoma revealed by computed tomography (CT) scanning and observe tumor progression and elucidate appropriate follow-up schedule of tumor diagnosis via CT findings of suspected lung
adenocarcinoma.
The pathological hallmarks of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis include proliferating fibroblasts and
myofibroblasts, as well as excessive collagen matrix deposition. In addition, both myofibroblast contraction and remodeling of the collagen-rich matrix contribute to the abnormal structure and function of the fibrotic lung.
Sleep and Breathing 1520-9512 (Print) 10.1007/s11325-009-0245-7
Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and the associated symptom of excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) in military personnel has influential consequences in both the garrison and the deployed environments.
Thorax. Published Online First: 12 February 2009. doi:10.1136/thx.2008.110957
The frequency of clinical isolation of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) in the Netherlands is increasing, but its clinical relevance is often uncertain.
Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) describes a paradoxical worsening of clinical status related to recovery of the immune system, as can occur after the initiation of highly active antiretroviral therapy
(HAART) in HIV-infected patients.
Chronic cough is caused by a wide variety of disease conditions, including asthma, rhino-sinusitis and
gastro-oesophageal reflux. We describe the case of a 42-year-old man with hypereosinophilic syndrome presenting with chronic dry cough.
Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. 2009, doi:10.1164/rccm.200806-893OC
{gamma}-Secretase inhibitor (GSI) has been used to effectively block Notch signaling, which is implicated in the differentiation and functional regulation of T helper
(Th) effector cells.
COPD: Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Volume 6, Issue 1 February 2009 , pages 48 - 58
The history of tobacco smoking is quite extensive having existed for many years. Over the past 10-15 years significant gains have been made in curbing exposure to tobacco smoke, but tobacco smoke continues to contribute to significant disease.
J Med Genet. Published Online First: 11 February 2009. doi:10.1136/jmg.2008.062703
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive disorder characterized by raised pulmonary artery pressures with pathological changes in small pulmonary arteries.
Mycobacterial pathogens are a major threat to humans. With the increasing availability of functional genomic data, research on mycobacterial pathogenesis and subsequent control strategies will be greatly accelerated.
Among peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients, nocturnal PD (NPD) is known to improve sleep apnea compared with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis
(CAPD), but the contributing factors are unclear.
Increasing prevalence of pleural empyema (PE) complicating community acquired pneumonia (CAP) is reported worldwide. We compared hospitalized children with PE or non-purulent pleural effusion
(NP-PEF) prior to the inclusion of the pneumococcal conjugated vaccine (PCV7) in the Israeli immunization schedule.
Chest radiography is the first-line imaging examination for assessment of thoracic
polytrauma, serving to evaluate the extent of injury and facilitate early triage to observation, further imaging, or immediate surgical intervention.
The purpose of our study was to investigate whether CT venography (CTV) performed after CT pulmonary angiography
(CTPA) using 64-MDCT provides additional findings in the diagnosis of thromboembolic disease.
American Pharmacists Association Posted February 19, 2009
Recent research found that asthmatic patients uncontrolled on inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) achieve better symptomatic control when an inhaled long-acting beta-agonist
(LABA) is added to the ICS than when the dose of the ICS is increased; however, patients who received the LABA experienced more hospitalizations and severe exacerbations. Data are lacking on what occurs in real-world settings.
Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, March 2009, p. 1218-1220, Vol. 53, No. 3
By way of bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage, intrapulmonary steady-state concentrations of micafungin administered at 150 mg daily to 15 healthy volunteers were determined at 4, 12, and 24 h after the third dose.
COPD: Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Volume 6, Issue 1 February 2009 , pages 31 - 40
Disease management programs improve outcomes in subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD), but their effect in subjects with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
(AATD) has not been evaluated.
COPD: Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Volume 6, Issue 1 February 2009 , pages 41 - 47
The aims of this study were to characterize causes of death among veterans with COPD using multiple cause of death coding, and to examine whether causes of death differed according to timing of COPD diagnosis.
Sleep and Breathing 1520-9512 (Print) 10.1007/s11325-009-0248-4
Oral appliances (OA) are commonly prescribed for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea-hypopnoea
(OSAH), but there is limited evidence on their cost-effectiveness.
COPD: Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Volume 6, Issue 1 February 2009 , pages 17 - 25
Combined use of {beta}2-agonists and anticholinergic bronchodilators may have complementary benefits in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD).
Specimens from transbronchial lung biopsies lack sufficient quality due to crush artifact and are generally too small for diagnosis of diffuse lung diseases.
Journal of Anesthesia Volume 23, Number 1 / February, 2009 132-134
We report a case of spontaneous hemothorax in a healthy 27-year-old man undergoing elective reconstruction of the right anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) under general anesthesia.
Airway smooth muscle (ASM) cell hyperplasia is a key feature of airway
remodelling. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) are key components in signal transduction associated with cell proliferation; MAPK consists of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase
(ERK), p38MAPK and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK).
J Epidemiol Community Health. Published Online First: 10 February 2009. doi:10.1136/jech.2008.077024
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a major global cause of morbidity and mortality. Studies in urban areas have shown associations between air pollutants and hospital admissions for
COPD.
Thorax. Published Online First: 12 February 2009. doi:10.1136/thx.2008.104703
Studies of the relation between maternal diet in pregnancy and respiratory and atopic outcomes in the offspring have focused on effects of individual nutrients and foods, rather than dietary patterns.
Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry 2009;80:297-304
The frequency, nature, relationship to systemic features, value of investigation findings and outcomes for a cohort of patients with neurosarcoidosis (NS) were studied by performing a retrospective survey of case records from nine District General or Regional Centre hospitals in south-west England and south Wales over a 12-year period (1990-2002).
Emerging Infectious Diseases Volume 15, Number 3-March 2009
Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) often results in severe illness and death. In large, geographically defined areas where Coccidioides
spp. are endemic, coccidioidomycosis is a recognized cause of CAP, but its frequency has not been studied extensively.
This study sought to determine if ambulance service users differ in their health behaviours to "walk-in" patients attending an emergency department (ED) with acute asthma.
Recent studies suggest a role for vitamin D in innate immunity, including the prevention of respiratory tract infections
(RTIs). We hypothesize that serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) levels are inversely associated with self-reported recent upper RTI
(URTI).
Trends in Microbiology, 23 February 2009 doi:10.1016/j.tim.2008.12.003
The airways of patients afflicted with cystic fibrosis (CF) are colonized by many pathogens, the most predominant of which is the Gram-negative bacterium Pseudomonas
aeruginosa.
Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, Vol 14, No 1 (2009)
Pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) are associated with considerable morbidity and mortality, mostly, in case of PE for its lack of sensitivity of its early detection. For as much as twenty-five percent of PE patients the primary clinical appearance is unexpected death.
Clinical Transplantation Published Online: 22 Feb 2009
Primary graft dysfunction (PGD) is a leading cause of early morbidity and mortality in lung transplantation. We sought to identify risk factors for PGD using the United Network for Organ Sharing/International Society for Heart and Lung Transplant
(UNOS/ISHLT) Registry.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of CT fluoroscopy-guided percutaneous needle aspiration biopsy of ground-glass opacity
(GGO) pulmonary lesions.
The neuroendocrine system is most active at birth and may play a role in the transition from fetal to postnatal life, in particular in the lungs' transition from fluid secretion to fluid absorption.
Ann Thorac Surg 2009;87:869-873. doi:10.1016/j.athoracsur.2008.12.003
Although an open-window thoracostomy (OWT) represents the ideal method for drainage of postpneumonectomy
empyema, several controversies exist concerning its application to pleural empyema complicating pulmonary resections less than
pneumonectomy.
Ann Thorac Surg 2009;87:849-853. doi:10.1016/j.athoracsur.2008.11.010
Life-threatening massive hemoptysis requires prompt action and thoracic surgical input. Although there are a number of reports regarding each therapeutic modality for medical or surgical treatment, the significance of a multidisciplinary strategy remains undetermined.
Ann Thorac Surg 2009;87:854-860. doi:10.1016/j.athoracsur.2008.11.036
Primary graft dysfunction (PGD) after lung transplantation is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Venovenous or venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
(ECMO) allows lung recovery; however, the optimal approach and impact on long-term survival are unknown.
Ann Thorac Surg 2009;87:886-891. doi:10.1016/j.athoracsur.2008.09.081
To determine the optimal method of evaluating fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake on positron emission tomography (PET) for the diagnosis of pulmonary malignancies, the sensitivity and specificity of visual assessment and the several semiquantitative analyses were compared.
Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. 2009, doi:10.1164/rccm.200806-981OC
Upper airway muscles function plays a major role in maintenance of the upper airway patency and contribute to the genesis of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome
(OSAS).
Journal of The Medical Association of Thailand Vol92 No.3 351 1659
Various trials showed benefit of the prophylactic agent ketotifen in prevention of recurrent wheezing in young children, but no such clinical trial with loratadine or comparison trial is available.
Thorax. Published Online First: 12 February 2009. doi:10.1136/thx.2008.108290
Granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (GMCSF) has been implicated as an important mediator in the pathogenesis of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD).
Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine:Volume 15(2)March 2009p 100-104
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an increasing cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although COPD has historically been considered a disease of white male smokers, it now clearly impacts both sexes and all races, with mortality rising fastest in women and African-Americans.
Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine:Volume 15(2)March 2009p 133-137
Systemic corticosteroids are strongly recommended in the treatment of exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD). As COPD patients are usually elderly and are relatively immobile, side effects of systemic corticosteroids frequently outweigh their beneficial effects.
There have been several important changes in the updated NIH asthma guidelines regarding the management of acute asthma. At home during an exacerbation, doubling the dose of inhaled corticosteroids is not recommended.
International Journal of Rehabilitation Research:Volume 32(1)March 2009pp 85-88
The aim of this study was to assess the effect of physiotherapy on ventilator dependency and lengths of intensive care unit (ICU) stay. Patients were divided into two groups.
Journal of Investigative Dermatology advance online publication 19 February 2009;
doi: 10.1038/jid.2008.456
Sarcoidosis is a multi-system inflammatory disease with organ involvement that varies by race and sex. Family studies indicate that genes play a role in the etiology and extent of organ involvement in
sarcoidosis.
COPD: Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Volume 6, Issue 1 February 2009 , pages 59 - 63
COPD is complex and there are multiple determinants of poor health, so most studies of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
(COPD) now include health status, or health related quality of life measurement, along with FEV1 as a primary endpoint. It is important to make a distinction between quality of life-which is unique to the individual, and health status measurement-which is standardized quantification of the impact of disease.
COPD: Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Volume 6, Issue 1 February 2009 , pages 26 - 30
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is under-recognized by clinicians, with long diagnostic delays between patients' first symptom and initial diagnosis. Recent recommendations by official societies encourage testing for AATD in all symptomatic adults with spirometric evidence of
COPD, though compliance with this recommendation has been variable.
Inhalation Toxicology First Published on: 19 February 2009
Previous investigations have indicated that cooks are exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
(PAHs) from cooking-oil fumes. However, Emission of PAH and their carcinogenic potencies from cooking oil fumes sources have not been investigated among cooks.
COPD: Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Volume 6, Issue 1 February 2009 , pages 4 - 16
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is smoking-related and associated with increased cytotoxic CD8+ T-cells in the airway. There is a wide range of susceptibility to the damaging effects of cigarette smoke with only a small proportion of smokers progressing to
COPD.
European Journal of Pediatrics 0340-6199 (Print) 10.1007/s00431-009-0941-0
We report a preterm neonate with congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection associated with severe lung involvement progressing to early chronic lung disease
(CLD) and death.
Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. 2009, doi:10.1164/rccm.200803-490OC
Little is known about the genetic regulation of granulomatous inflammation in
sarcoidosis. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that tissue gene array analysis would identify novel genes engaged in inflammation and lung remodeling in patients with
sarcoidosis.
Echocardiography is a noninvasive, readily available tool routinely used in the evaluation of critically ill subjects and patients with respiratory disorders.
The present study investigated the effect of repeated hypercapnic challenges on the sensory (intensity [I]) and affective (unpleasantness [U]) dimensions of breathlessness.
The leading cause of transfusion-related morbidity and mortality in the United States is transfusion-related acute lung injury
(TRALI). Diagnostic criteria for TRALI have recently been developed and primarily consist of hypoxia and bilateral pulmonary edema occurring during or within 6 h of a transfusion in the absence of cardiac failure or intravascular volume overload.
In family practice, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is usually not diagnosed until clinically apparent and of moderately advanced severity.
To consider the mechanisms that may link asthma and major depressive disorder
(MDD). Asthma and MDD co-occur at higher rates than expected, but whether this reflects shared underlying pathophysiological mechanisms is not known.
COPD: Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Volume 6, Issue 1 February 2009 , pages 64 - 75
Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are responsible for a large proportion of the health care dollar expenditure, morbidity, and mortality related to
COPD. Respiratory infections are the most common cause of acute exacerbations, but recent evidence indicates that the importance of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in COPD is under-appreciated.
COPD: Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Volume 6, Issue 1 February 2009 , pages 1 - 3
TORCH and UPLIFT are amongst the largest and most ambitious COPD trials ever undertaken. In terms of the primary outcomes, both trials were negative. Compared with placebo, combined salmeterol and fluticasone therapy did not significantly reduce all cause mortality over 3 years in TORCH, and tiotropium did not slow the decline in lung function over 4 years in UPLIFT.
Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine:Volume 15(2)March 2009p 138-142
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is isolated in sputum cultures from adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD) but the significance of the organism in this clinical setting is not well known. The purpose of this review is to critically review the literature in an effort to understand the role of P. aeruginosa in the course and pathogenesis of
COPD.
Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine:Volume 15(2)March 2009p 126-132
The relevance of antibiotics in the treatment of acute exacerbation has been a matter of debate for several years. Although expert recommendations may vary, there is general agreement about the fact that not all patients will equally experience benefit from antibiotics: apart from decreasing costs, discriminate use of antibiotics is capable of significantly reducing subsequent colonization or infection with antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is a pulmonary disease with symptoms of dyspnea and cough resulting from the inhalation of an antigen to which the patient has been previously sensitized.
Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine:Volume 15(2)March 2009p 158-164
Indoor air pollution (IAP) resulting from the use of solid fuel for cooking and heating is a significant public health concern in developing countries. Recent studies have attempted to better characterize the epidemiology of IAP in respiratory diseases and develop technologies for reducing this IAP exposure.
There have been several important changes in the updated NIH asthma guidelines regarding the management of acute asthma. At home during an exacerbation, doubling the dose of inhaled corticosteroids is not recommended.
Asthma exists in many different populations, and there is more risk in certain populations or individuals compared to others. Disparate risk provides an opportunity for extreme asthma variability even among one ethnic group, one age group, or one socioeconomic class.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydia pneumoniae are present in the airways in subjects with asthma, but Mycoplasma pneumoniae is present in greater frequency in subjects with asthma as compared to control subjects.
Respiratory Research 2009, 10:11doi:10.1186/1465-9921-10-11
Oral corticosteroids and inhaled bronchodilators with or without antibiotics represent standard treatment of COPD exacerbations. Frequent courses of oral steroids may be a safety issue.
Journal of Medical Case Reports 2009, 3:64doi:10.1186/1752-1947-3-64
Pulmonary artery sarcomas are rare neoplasms that are often confused with chronic
thrombo-embolic disease, as both can have similar clinical and imaging presentation.
Journal of Medical Case Reports 2009, 3:62doi:10.1186/1752-1947-3-62
Perivascular epitheloid cell tumours are rare mesenchymal neoplasms characterized by a proliferation of perivascular cells with an epitheloid phenotype and expression of myomelanocytic markers.
Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care:Volume 12(2)March 2009p 123-128
The acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a severe illness that is often the cause of death in ICU patients. A safe and effective intervention for this condition is lacking.
Tests for thrombophilia are being performed on a large scale in people after venous thromboembolism
(VTE) even though the benefits of testing are still subject to debate. The most important benefit would be a reduction in the risk of recurrent VTE due to the use of additional prophylactic measures.
Practicing pulmonologists are often faced with the question of whether a lung disease is related to something in the patient's workplace, home, or recreational environment.
American Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology. Vol. 40, pp. 368-374, 2009
Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) is an IL-7-like cytokine that triggers dendritic cell-mediated T helper (Th)2 inflammatory responses, and is implicated in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases in humans.
Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. 2009, doi:10.1164/rccm.200807-1089OC
The mechanisms underlying formation of lung lymphoid follicles (LF) in COPD are unknown. The chemokine receptor, CXCR3, regulates immune responses in secondary lymphoid structures elsewhere in the body and is highly expressed by Th1 lymphocytes in the airway in
COPD.
Although there is increasing evidence that inhaled birefringent particles (BPs) cause pulmonary fibrotic reaction, the relationship between BPs and diffuse interstitial lung diseases
(DILDs) remains unclear.
Canadian Journal of Cardiology February 2009, Volume 25 Issue 2: e36-e41
Septic thrombosis of the right atrium is an unusual complication associated with the use of indwelling devices. The optimal management of this condition is unclear. Our experience with a patient with hemodialysis catheter-related septic thrombosis of the right atrium illustrates the difficulties associated with this condition.
Diagnostic Cytopathology Published Online: 13 Feb 2009
Nodular pulmonary amyloidosis is rare, but a number of individual cases have been reported in the literature.
Radiologically, pulmonary amyloid nodules often mimic cancer and hence require biopsy to obtain a specimen for definitive diagnosis.
Acta Radiologica First Published on: 23 January 2009
In diagnosing acute pulmonary embolism (PE) in azotemic patients, scintigraphy and magnetic resonance imaging are frequently inconclusive or not available in many hospitals. Computed tomography is readily available, but relatively high doses (30-50 g I) of potentially nephrotoxic iodine contrast media (CM) are used.
The functional mechanism of lung mosaic computed tomography attenuation (MCA) in pulmonary vascular disease
(PVD) and obstructive airway disease (OAD) has not yet been fully clarified.
It has been suggested that no upper limit of the fluid amount drained is necessary when performing ultrasound-guided
thoracentesis, but the risk of pneumothorax when large amounts of fluid are drained has not been studied in detail.
Arm span is the closest physiologic measurement to standing height. Increased arm span to standing height ratio, therefore, indicates possible loss of height, which is a feature of aging, often resulting from osteoporosis-related vertebral collapse.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has been identified as a risk factor for ischaemic heart disease, independent of smoking history, and inflammation is thought to play a role.
Journal of Hospital Medicine Volume 4 Issue 2, Pages E7 - E15
This study sought to define the incidence, economic impact, and nature of adverse drug effects
(ADEs) related to antibiotics in pneumonia hospitalizations in the US.
Pediatric Pulmonology Published Online: 10 Feb 2009
The aim of this paper is thus to identify, evluate, and summarize in a systematic fashion all the epidemiological studies that have analyzed the association between exposure to specific indoor air pollutants and respiratory disease among children under the age of five.
Airway stenting has become a common technique in inoperable benign strictures. An ideal stent does not yet exist for these conditions. Recently, fully covered self-expandable metallic stents
(SEMS) have been commercialized with potential use in benign airway strictures.
Despite the frequent occurrence of pleural effusions in lung transplant recipients, little is known about early posttransplant pleural space infections. We sought to determine the predictors and clinical significance of pleural infection in this population.
Common medical problems are often associated with abnormalities of sleep. Patients with chronic medical disorders often have fewer hours of sleep and less restorative sleep compared to healthy individuals, and this poor sleep may worsen the subjective symptoms of the disorder.
Cigarette smoking has been associated with several diffuse lung diseases in which both bronchiolar and interstitial lung inflammation appear to result from chronic tobacco smoke inhalation.
Atypical pneumonia was first described in 1938, and over time, Mycoplasma,
Legionella, and Chlamydophila were the agents commonly linked with community-associated atypical pneumonia.
Familial pulmonary arterial hypertension (FPAH) is a progressive, fatal disease caused by mutations in the bone morphogenetic protein receptor type 2 gene (BMPR2). FPAH is inherited as an autosomal dominant trait, and shows incomplete penetrance in that many with BMPR2 mutations do not develop
FPAH, suggesting a role for, as yet unidentified, modifier genes in disease
penetrance.
Intensive Care Medicine 0342-4642 (Print) 10.1007/s00134-009-1439-y
To evaluate the effects of frequency and inspiratory plateau pressure (Pplat) during recruitment manoeuvres
(RMs) on lung and distal organs in acute lung injury (ALI).
Journal of Pediatric Psychology 2009 34(2):118-128;
doi:10.1093/jpepsy/jsn063
Despite even occasional smoking being more risky for adolescents with asthma, the smoking rate in this vulnerable population remains high. This is the first longitudinal study investigating asthma-specific predictors of smoking initiation.
Current Atherosclerosis Reports Volume 11, Number 2 / March, 2009 139-145
Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a progressive disease of pulmonary vasculature characterized by increased mean pulmonary arterial pressure and elevated vascular resistance with normal left-sided pressures, differentiating it from left-sided heart disease.
Pediatric Pulmonology Published Online: 9 Feb 2009
Three girls, 5-, 9-, and 15-year-old, were evaluated for recurrent airway infections and pneumonia. Chest X-rays, which included the upper portion of the abdomen, showed marked gaseous bowels distention, while computed tomography scans of the chest demonstrated the presence of tracheoesophageal fistula
(TEF), confirmed by fiberoptic bronchoscopy.
To determine whether concurrent emphysema influences the distinction between usual interstitial pneumonia
(UIP) and nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP) at thin-section computed tomography (CT).
American Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology. Vol. 40, pp. 332-339, 2009
Whole-body hypoxic preconditioning (WHPC) prolongs survival of mice exposed to severe hypoxia by attenuating pulmonary edema and preserving gas exchange.
American Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology. Vol. 40, pp. 340-348, 2009
Bronchiolar Clara cells undergo phenotypic changes during development and in disease. These changes are poorly described due to a paucity of molecular markers.
American Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology. Vol. 40, pp. 286-294, 2009
NF-{kappa}B activation in bronchial epithelial cells is important for the development of allergic airway inflammation, and may control the expression of critical mediators of allergic inflammation such as thymic stromal lymphopoietin
(TSLP) and the chemokine CCL20.
Pediatric Pulmonology Published Online: 9 Feb 2009
We investigated matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1) levels in the cord blood of 29 premature infants who were <30 weeks gestation.
In acute respiratory alkalosis, the severity of alkalaemia is ameliorated by a decrease in plasma [HCO3-] of 0.2
mEq/L for each 1 mmHg decrease in PaCO2.
Journal of Hospital Medicine Volume 4 Issue 2, Pages 112 - 123
Obtaining blood cultures (BCs) for patients hospitalized with community-acquired-pneumonia (CAP) has been recommended by experts and used as a measure of quality of care. However, BCs are infrequently positive in these patients and their effect on clinical management has been questioned.
Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions Published Online: 23 Dec 2008
To report our experience with bronchial compression secondary to vascular stent implantation within the mediastinum of patients with congenital heart disease.
The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery published online 09 February 2009
Thoracoscopy has become a favored modality in treating pediatric empyema. However, the factors affecting the outcome of thoracoscopic management remain unclear. In this study, we report our experience using thoracoscopy to treat empyema in pediatric patients and investigate the factors affecting outcome.
Journal of Clinical Oncology, 10.1200/JCO.2008.16.2412
Six patients with PH from the phase II trial, 15 potential PH patients with hemorrhage at any site from the phase III trial, and their matched controls were evaluated with review of baseline and on-treatment radiographs by an independent radiology facility, blinded to patient/control status.
Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine:Volume 15(2)March 2009p 150-157
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an important disease worldwide, imposing huge economic burden on society. Outdoor air pollutants have a wide variety of harmful effects on humans, including local effects on the airway and systemic inflammation.
The Clinical Respiratory Journal Published Online: 18 Feb 2009
The study was approved by the central Danish ethical committee, and was conducted in accordance with the ethical standards laid down in the declaration of Helsinki. All participants provided written informed consent.
Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine:Volume 15(2)March 2009p 90-99
Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Most acute exacerbations are triggered by community-acquired respiratory infections.
Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine:Volume 15(2)March 2009p 120-125
Acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a natural event in the course of COPD and remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality associated with this disease. Clinical criteria that define an acute exacerbation are subjective and open for debate.
Respiratory Research 2009, 10:10doi:10.1186/1465-9921-10-10
Background Pneumocystis spp. are opportunistic pathogens that cause pneumonia in immunocompromised humans and animals. Pneumocystis colonization has also been detected in immunocompetent hosts and may exacerbate other pulmonary diseases.
Chest physiotherapy is widely prescribed to assist the clearance of airway secretions in people with cystic fibrosis (CF). Oscillating devices generate intra- or extra-thoracic oscillations orally or external to the chest wall.
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder which mainly affects the lungs. Chest infections recur in people with cystic fibrosis due to a build up of thick sputum (phlegm) in the air passages. Several treatments, including thiol derivatives, aim to loosen this sputum and so improve lung function and reduce the frequency of chest infections. Thiol derivatives may be either nebulized (breathed in) or oral (by mouth).
Ventilator-induced lung injury is mediated, at least in part, by TNF-{alpha}. We determined the effect of a recombinant human soluble TNF receptor fusion protein
(etanercept) on mechanical ventilation (MV)-induced changes in a murine ventilator-induced lung injury model.
World Journal of Urology 0724-4983 (Print) 10.1007/s00345-009-0375-3
We examined the prognostic value of chronic pulmonary disease (CPD), which can cause hypoxemic hypoxia possibly resulting in tumor hypoxia, in patients with advanced prostate cancer
(APC).
Pediatric Pulmonology Published Online: 9 Feb 2009
Concerns about the morbidity and mortality associated with tricuspid regurgitant jet velocity
(TRJV) elevation, which may indicate pulmonary hypertension
(PHT), in adults with sickle cell disease (SCD) have prompted growing interest in screening the pediatric sickle cell population.
Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. 2009, doi:10.1164/rccm.200809-1472OC
Portopulmonary hypertension occurs in 6% of liver transplant candidates. The pathogenesis of this complication of portal hypertension is poorly understood.
Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. 2009, doi:10.1164/rccm.200811-1744OC
Both 15-Lipoxygenase-1(15LO1) and MUC5AC are highly expressed in asthmatic epithelial cells. IL-13 is known to induce both 15LO1 and MUC5AC in human airway epithelial cells in vitro. Whether 15LO1 and/or its product 15-HETE modulate MUC5AC expression is unknown.
The role of different risk factors for bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR), such as gender,
atopy, IgE, and environmental factors (smoking, occupational exposure, infections), has been described.
Normal airway mucus lines the epithelial surface and provides an important innate immune function by detoxifying noxious molecules and by trapping and removing pathogens and particulates from the airway via mucociliary clearance.
Traditionally, ventilatory limitation to exercise is assessed by measuring the breathing reserve
(BRR) [ie, the difference between minute ventilation at peak exercise and maximum voluntary ventilation measured at rest].
The American Journal of the Medical Sciences:Volume 337(2)February 2009pp 88-92
In acute pulmonary embolism (PE), brain natriuretic peptides are markers of right ventricular dysfunction and they could point out the size of the occluded pulmonary vessel.
Although obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) severity is evaluated by the
apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), the value of AHI in evaluating cardiovascular risks, especially in mild to moderate
OSA, is unclear.
European Radiology 0938-7994 (Print) 10.1007/s00330-009-1308-7
The goal of this study was to seek indirect evidence that smoking is an aetiological factor in some patients with non-specific interstitial pneumonia
(NSIP).
Pediatric Pulmonology Published Online: 9 Feb 2009
Airway closure during central apnea could allow for better gas exchange. However, the return of inspiratory efforts against a closed airway may cause greater desaturation and prolongation of apnea.
The main objectives of this review were to determine the effectiveness and safety of non-invasive oxygen delivery systems in children's recovery from lower respiratory tract infections
(LRTIs). Other objectives were to determine the indications for oxygen therapy, describe the clinical criteria for ending oxygen therapy, determine the indications for continuing oxygen therapy after discharge, and estimate costs associated with each method of oxygen delivery.
Pulmonary rehabilitation has become a cornerstone in the management of patients with stable Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
(COPD). Systematic reviews have shown large and important clinical effects of pulmonary rehabilitation in these patients.
An important continued trend in healthcare-associated infection, including healthcare-associated pneumonia
(HCAP), is the rise of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA).
Expert Review of Respiratory Medicine February 2009, Vol. 3, No. 1, Pages 13-19
Exertional dyspnea is a common clinical problem seen with different etiologies in different clinical situations and may even be found in healthy individuals. Approximately 90% of asthmatic patients suffer from shortness of breath in the context of exercise.
Expert Review of Respiratory Medicine February 2009, Vol. 3, No. 1, Pages 93-101
The aim of this review is to discuss the methodological issues involved in using pharmacy-record databases of drug sales in pharmacoepidemiology and to illustrate the usefulness of such data in estimating disease prevalence, patient adherence and persistence to therapy.
Expert Review of Respiratory Medicine February 2009, Vol. 3, No. 1, Pages 81-91
The idiopathic interstitial pneumonias can be grouped, for treatment purposes, into primary inflammatory disorders, fibrotic nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (in which inflammation is thought to precede and progress to fibrosis) as well as the most common of the idiopathic interstitial pneumonia subgroups, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules are known to play an important role in host-defense mechanisms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between HLA alleles and lung disease caused by nontuberculous mycobacteria
(NTM) in Korean patients.
Estimating the burden of exposure-related diffuse lung disease in terms of health effects and economic burden remains challenging. Labor statistics are inadequate to define the scope of the problem, and few studies have analyzed the prevalence of exposure-related illnesses and the subsequent health care cost.
Pulmonary hypertension is an important complication of COPD. A small subset of patients with COPD have severe pulmonary hypertension (PH) that is out of proportion to the mild increase in pulmonary arterial pressure observed commonly.
Current Allergy and Asthma Reports Volume 9, Number 2 / March, 2009 155-163
NSAIDs-including aspirin (ASA)-that inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 induce nonallergic hypersensitivity reactions consisting of attacks of rhinitis and asthma. Such reactions
occur exclusively in a subset of asthmatic patients who also have underlying nasal polyps and chronic hyperplastic eosinophilic sinusitis.
Current Allergy and Asthma Reports Volume 9, Number 2 / March, 2009 164-167
A growing number of studies show that regular use of acetaminophen (paracetamol) carries a dose-dependent risk of developing allergies in general and asthma in particular and of worsening other respiratory diseases and lung function.
Scandinavian Journal of Clinical and Laboratory Investigation, Volume 69, Issue 1 February 2009 , pages 73 - 78
An anaerobic type of glycolysis exemplified by hyperproduction of the lactate dehydrogenase
(LDH) subunit M has been detected in lung tumours, while a similar pattern has been found in concomitant pleural effusions (PE).
Spontaneous pneumomediastinum is a rare condition in the newborn, not associated with identifiable trauma or mechanical ventilation. It is diagnosed by a combination of physical examination and confirmatory chest radiograph, with various recognized signs identifiable in this condition.
Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care:Volume 12(2)March 2009p 105-109
Expression of defective cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator
(CFTR), the cause for cystic fibrosis, affects fatty acid, cholesterol and sphingolipid metabolism. This review summarizes recent observations and evaluates current understanding of mechanisms.
Thorax. Published Online First: 8 January 2009. doi:10.1136/thx.2008.101683
Lung mast cells are stereotypically divided into connective tissue (MCTC) and mucosal
(MCT) mast cells. This study tests the hypothesis that each of these subtypes can be divided further into site-specific populations created by the microenvironment within each anatomic lung compartment.
Little is known about a fairly frequent abnormal pattern of pulmonary function test results: reduced FEV1 and FVC with a normal
FEV1/FVC and normal total lung capacity.
Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis Volume 7 Issue 3, Pages 406 - 412
Compression ultrasonography (US) confined to the proximal veins is usually performed to detect deep vein thrombosis
(DVT) in patients with suspected pulmonary embolism (PE). Recent studies suggested a limited yield of proximal US when multislice computed tomography
(MSCT) was used.
Pediatric Pulmonology Published Online: 9 Feb 2009
The association between pulmonary function and morbidity in children with sickle cell disease (SCD) has not been previously evaluated. Our objective was to study the relationship between abnormalities in pulmonary function and morbidity as represented by the rate of hospitalizations for pain or acute chest syndrome (ACS) in children with SCD.
Current Allergy and Asthma Reports Volume 9, Number 2 / March, 2009 168-173
Asthma is generally characterized by fully reversible airway obstruction. However, a significant proportion of asthma patients demonstrate an incomplete reversibility of airway obstruction
(IRAO) despite optimal treatment and the absence of a significant smoking history.
Healthcare-associated pneumonia (HCAP) is a unique entity that differs from community-acquired pneumonia in both bacteriology and outcomes and has similarities to hospital-acquired pneumonia and ventilator-associated pneumonia.
Thorax. Published Online First: 8 January 2009. doi:10.1136/thx.2008.106237
Women are consistently over-represented in specialist cough clinics and known to have a more sensitive cough reflex than men. Whether female sex and other patient characteristics are associated with higher cough rates is not known. We aimed to determine the predictors of objective cough frequency in chronic cough patients presenting to a tertiary referral clinic.
Neuromuscular problems are frequent complications in patients with severe disease that require admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). Weakness of limbs and respiratory muscles is most frequently due to critical illness
polyneuro-and/or myopathy (CIP/CIM). As a consequence, patients face a delay in weaning from ventilatory support and rehabilitation. Recovery of strength often occurs within weeks to months but can be incomplete or not occur at all.
CIP/CIM is associated with increased ICU stay and mortality rates. Prevention and treatment of
CIP/CIM is therefore of great importance.
What
is RSS?
