Search

Alzheimer's disease (AD) presents a significant global health challenge, affecting over 6 million individuals. This underscores the urgent need for early detection to improve treatment effectiveness and disease management. AD is characterized by the buildup of amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, resulting in progressive and irreversible neuronal degeneration. However, current diagnostic methods, like imaging scans, are often inaccessible and costly, limiting their usefulness for early detection. This study investigates the potential of nasal secretion analysis as a non-invasive diagnostic method for AD. Using Bicinchoninic acid (BCA) and Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) assays, we examined protein levels, focusing mainly on amyloid beta 42/40 (Aβ 42/40) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) in nasal secretion samples. Blood and brain samples were also collected for comparison, providing insights into systemic biomarkers reflecting overall pathological processes and direct examination of AD-related neuropathology, respectively. Our findings highlight the promise of nasal secretion analysis as a diagnostic tool for AD, emphasizing the importance of Aβ 42/40 and IL-6. ELISA results revealed increased levels of Aβ 42/40 in nasal secretions from AD mice, exhibiting an average OD450 signal of 0.496, in contrast to healthy cohorts where the signal was 0.4895 for young mice and 0.46 for aged mice. Additionally, elevated levels of IL-6 were identified in nasal secretions of AD mice, averaging 0.1395 pg/mL, compared to healthy cohorts, where young mice averaged 0.0998 pg/mL and aged mice had 0.11 pg/mL. This underscores IL-6's potential as a biomarker for AD pathology and contributes to understanding its dynamics in AD. Moreover, the study's BCA assay results indicated a concentration of proteins in the fluid, expanding the potential for future research to discover more protein biomarkers. This study aims to facilitate further research to validate the diagnostic accuracy of nasal secretion analysis and its comparative effectiveness with existing methods. These advancements hold promise for early AD detection and improved patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study on noninvasive nasal secretion sampling to assess the inflammatory phenotype of adult allergic rhinitis patients. The study, conducted in China, focused on developing an effective and standardized procedure using adsorbent materials like PU sponge and PFM for nasal secretion collection. Results showed that PU sponge had higher fluid recovery rates and protein release efficiency compared to PFM, making it an optimal material for sampling. The study aimed to provide a novel platform for evaluating disease severity and monitoring clinical efficacy in allergic rhinitis patients. [Extracted from the article]

This study aimed to describe selected epidemiological aspects of horses with acute onset of fever and respiratory signs testing qPCR-positive for S. equi and to determine the effect of vaccination against S. equi on qPCR status. Horses with acute onset of fever and respiratory signs from all regions of the United States were included in a voluntary biosurveillance program from 2008 to 2020 and nasal secretions were tested via qPCR for S. equi and common respiratory viruses. A total of 715/9409 equids (7.6%) tested qPCR-positive for S. equi, with 226 horses showing coinfections with EIV, EHV-1, EHV-4, and ERBV. The median age for the S. equi qPCR-positive horses was 8 ± 4 years and there was significant difference when compared to the median age of the S. equi qPCR-negative horses (6 ± 2 years; p = 0.004). Quarter Horse, Warmblood, and Thoroughbred were the more frequent breed in this horse population, and these breeds were more likely to test qPCR-positive for S. equi compared to other breeds. There was not statistical difference for sex between S. equi qPCR-positive and qPCR-negative horses. Horses used for competition and ranch/farm use were more likely to test qPCR-positive for S. equi (p = 0.006). Horses that tested S. equi qPCR-positive were more likely to display nasal discharge, fever, lethargy, anorexia, and ocular discharge compared to horses that tested S. equi qPCR-negative (p = 0.001). Vaccination against S. equi was associated with a lower frequency of S. equi qPCR-positive status.

Objectives: To investigate the value of secretions Eosinophilic cationic protein (ECP) detection in the diagnosis of endotypes of Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and its correlation with clinical symptoms, so as to provide guidance for the clinical application of EOS and ECP detection in secretions. Methods: Patients' nasal secretions and polyps (or middle turbinate for control) were collected and their EOS% and ECP levels were measured. Correlation analysis was performed for EOS% and ECP levels in secretions and tissues, respectively. The correlation between secretions EOS% and ECP and clinical symptom scores (symptomatic visual analog scale (VAS) scores, Lanza‐kennedy scores from nasal endoscopy and Lund‐Mackay scores from sinus CT) was further analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to assess the predictive potential of EOS% and ECP in nasal secretions. Results: Eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis (ECRS) patients had higher concentrations of ECP in nasal secretions than healthy subjects and NECRS (non‐eosinophilic CRS) (p < 0.0001;0.0001); EOS% in nasal secretions was higher in ECRS than healthy subjects (p = 0.0055), but the differences between ECRS and NECRS were not statistically significant (p = 0.0999). Correlation analysis showed that tissue EOS% was correlated with ECP concentration and EOS% in nasal secretions (R = 0.5943;0.2815). There was a correlation between EOS% in secretions with a total LM score (R = 0.3131); ECP concentration in secretions with a total LK score (R = 0.3792). To diagnose ECRS, the highest area under the curve (0.8230) was determined for ECP in secretions; the highest area under the curve (0.6635) was determined for EOS% in secretions. Conclusion: Measurement of ECP in nasal secretions is useful for non‐invasive diagnosis of ECRS. Level of Evidence: 3 Laryngoscope, 133:3304–3312, 2023 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More and more studies are reporting on the natural transmission of SARS-CoV-2 between humans with COVID-19 and their companion animals (dogs and cats). While horses are apparently susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection based on the homology between the human and the equine ACE-2 receptor, no clinical or subclinical infection has yet been reported in the equine species. To investigate the possible clinical role of SARS-CoV-2 in equids, nasal secretions from 667 horses with acute onset of fever and respiratory signs were tested for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 by qPCR. The samples were collected from January to December of 2020 and submitted to a commercial molecular diagnostic laboratory for the detection of common respiratory pathogens (equine influenza virus, equine herpesvirus-1/-4, equine rhinitis A and B virus, Streptococcus equi subspecies equi). An additional 633 serum samples were tested for antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 using an ELISA targeting the receptor-binding domain of the spike protein. The serum samples were collected from a cohort of 587 healthy racing Thoroughbreds in California after track personnel tested qPCR-positive for SARS-CoV-2. While 241/667 (36%) equids with fever and respiratory signs tested qPCR-positive for at least one of the common respiratory pathogens, not a single horse tested qPCR-positive for SARS-CoV-2. Amongst the racing Thoroughbreds, 35/587 (5.9%) horses had detectable antibodies to SARS-CoV-2. Similar to dogs and cats, horses do not seem to develop clinical SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, horses can act as incidental hosts and experience silent infection following spillover from humans with COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2-infected humans should avoid close contact with equids during the time of their illness.

Copyright of Journal of Modern Laboratory Medicine is the property of Journal of Modern Laboratory Medicine Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objectives: To explore associations between inflammatory endotypes and clinical presentations in CRS. To investigate the value of secretions myeloperoxidase (MPO) and eosinophilic cationic protein (ECP) detections in the diagnosis of endotypes of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), so as to provide guidance for the clinical application of MPO and ECP detection in secretions. Methods: We collected clinical symptom scores from patients with CRS and examined the differences between endotypes in clinical features. Patients' nasal secretions and polyps (or middle turbinate for control) were collected and their NEU number, EOS%, MPO and ECP levels were measured. Correlation analysis was performed for these biomarkers in secretions and tissues, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to assess the predictive potential of the biomarkers mentioned above in nasal secretions. Results: Patients with Eos+Neu+ and Eos+Neu−CRS scored highest in most clinical symptom scores, while Eos−Neu+ and Eos−Neu−CRS scored lowest. Correlation analysis showed that tissues NEU number was correlated with NEU number and MPO level in nasal secretions (R = 0.4088; 0.6613); tissues EOS % was correlated with EOS% and ECP level in nasal secretions (R = 0.2344; 0.5774). To diagnose Neu+CRS, the highest area under the curve (AUC) (0.8961) was determined for MPO in secretions; the highest AUC (0.7400) was determined for NEU number in secretions. To diagnose Eos+Neu−CRS from Eos−Neu−CRS in Neu−CRS, the highest AUC (0.8801) was determined for ECP in secretions. Conclusions: Clinical presentations are directly associated with CRS endotypes. Measurement of MPO and ECP in nasal secretions is useful for the endotypes diagnosis of CRS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analysis of immune markers in nasal secretions has become crucial in the study of nasal diseases. We proposed the cotton piece method, a modified method, for the collection and processing of nasal secretions. The nasal secretions of 31 healthy control participants and 32 patients with nasal diseases were collected by the traditional sponge method and the cotton piece method, respectively. The concentrations of 14 cytokines and chemokines related to nasal diseases were detected. The properties of nasal secretions collected by the cotton piece method were more uniform than the sponge method. The concentration of IL-6 in the disease group collected by the cotton piece method was significantly higher than that in the control group (P = 0.002), and the cotton piece method could distinguish the positive detection rates of IL-1β (P = 0.031) and TNF-α (P = 0.001) between the control and disease groups. The levels of inflammatory mediators in nasal secretions could preliminarily distinguish different nasal diseases. The cotton piece method is a noninvasive and reliable method for collecting nasal secretions, which is beneficial for detecting local inflammatory and immune responses of the nasal mucosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infections are serious parasitosis that cause disease in grazing livestock. The impact of these parasites is associated with important economic losses related to decreased production and the cost of anthelmintic treatments. Previous studies have reported that GIN infections, mainly those caused by Teladorsagia circumcincta, are associated with specific IgA levels. The goal of this study was to characterize IgA levels in naturally infected sheep belonging to Assaf, Castellana, and Churra breeds in different samples (blood, nasal secretions, and saliva). The association between IgA and fecal egg count, breed, and age was also studied. The infection risk according to age and/or breed was measured by a multilevel random intercept model. As a result, the model predicted that breed was not a factor influencing the risk of infection, while age was determinant. On the other hand, this study concludes that nasal secretions could be a useful sample to detect natural infections in young animals from any of the breeds included in this study. Further studies in sheep belonging to other breeds would be interesting in the future to verify this test. Specific IgA antibody has been shown to play an important role in resistance to gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infections in sheep, particularly in Teladorsagia circumcincta parasitosis. In some breeds, negative associations have been shown between IgA levels and worm burden in experimentally infected sheep. In the present study, we have studied the relationship between IgA levels in naturally infected sheep (582 ewes in total; 193 younger than one year old and 389 older than one year old) and fecal egg count (FEC) in the Assaf, Castellana, and Churra breeds. ELISA assays were performed to measure IgA levels against the somatic antigen of T. circumcincta third larval stage (L3) and a 203-amino-acid fragment of the protein disulfide isomerase from the same GIN species. A multilevel random intercept model was developed to predict the infection risk according to age or breed. Spearman's correlation rank was used for statistical analysis. The prediction model showed that breed was not an influential factor in this study, although the Assaf breed could be considered slightly more susceptible than the others. In addition, age affected the infection risk, with the young ewes more susceptible to infection than the adult groups, except for the Castellana breed, whose risk of infection was similar at all ages. The most significant positive association was found between FEC and IgA measured in the nasal secretions of young ewes using both antigens (Rho = 0.5; p = 0.00); the correlation of FEC with IgA in serum was moderately significant (Rho = 0.306; p = 0.00). Comparing both antigens, the protein disulfide isomerase antigen was less reactive than the somatic antigen from L3. In conclusion, under natural conditions, specific IgA against GIN was positively associated with FEC in sheep, with nasal secretions from young animals being the sample where this association is stronger, which, therefore, could be used as a marker of infection in further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The EPOS guidelines promote cellular analysis as a primary goal in endotyping chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Current analysis is mainly based on biopsy or operative tissue collection, whereas the use of sinonasal secretions for inflammatory endotyping is not advocated in clinical practice. Early endotyping is crucial though, especially regarding the increasing evidence of patient-tailored therapy. We aimed to investigate the diagnostic value and reproducibility of sinonasal secretions sampling. Methods: First, preoperative secretion analysis of 53 Caucasian CRS patients was compared to subsequent operative tissue analysis. Second, secretion analysis at two different time points was compared for 10 postoperative Caucasian CRS patients with type 2 (T2) inflammation and 10 control participants. Secretions were collected by both endoscopic aspiration and nasal blown secretions in all participants. Results: The sensitivity to detect T2 inflammation was higher in nasal aspiration samples (85%) compared to nasal blow secretions (32%). A specificity of 100% for both techniques was obtained. A 90% reproducibility for T2 eosinophil detection was found by sampling at different time points regardless of the technique. Of the T2 patients, 60% showed no T2 inflammatory pattern more than one year after endoscopic sinus surgery. Conclusions: Nasal secretion sampling, especially aspiration of nasal secretions, is useful in the detection of T2 inflammation in CRS pathology. We proposed a structured histopathology analysis to be useful in daily clinical practice, which includes Congo red staining sensitive for eosinophilic cells and free eosinophil granules. Analysis of nasal secretions enables endotyping in an early stage, allowing more directed therapy.

Local allergic rhinitis (LAR) is diagnosed based on the presence of clinical symptoms such as rhinorrhea, sneezing, and nasal itching using negative skin prick testing and serum IgE assessment. Several novel studies have shown that it is possible to use the assessment of nasal sIgE (specific immunoglobulin E) secretion as an additional diagnostic criterion for local allergic rhinitis. Additionally, allergen immunotherapy is a promising—albeit still not fully assessed and evaluated—future method of managing patients with LAR. In this review, the historical background, epidemiology, and main pathophysiological mechanisms of LAR shall be presented. Additionally, we address the current state of knowledge based on selected articles regarding the assessment of the local mucosal IgE presence in response to exposure to such allergens as mites, pollen, molds, and others. The impact of LAR on quality of life as well as the possible options of management (including allergen immunotherapy (AIT), which showed promising results) will then be presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ionic microenvironment of the nasal secretions especially calcium ions play essential role in the olfactory transmission. However, there is a critical need to determine the free calcium levels in healthy people's nasal secretions in contrast to those of patients with olfactory impairment. A selective spectrofluorometric method was created to quantify nasal calcium levels utilizing its quenching ability to the fluorescence of the functionalized carbon quantum dots. The surface of carbon quantum dots was functionalized with calcium ionophore A23187 and ion association complex, calcium phosphotungstate, to improve the selectively to quantify calcium ions. The functionalized carbon quantum dots exhibited a concentration-dependent fluorescence quenching upon interaction with calcium ions. Different factors influencing the quenching process were done to provide efficient analytical process. The new method, demonstrated accurate calcium determination over the concentration range of 200–4000 ng/mL. The suggested technique was used to measure the calcium in the nasal secretions of both healthy people and patients with olfactory impairment. The findings revealed significantly higher calcium levels in the patient with olfactory dysfunction (healthy vs. patient; 735 ± 20 ng/mL vs. 2987 ± 37 ng/mL, p < 0.05). [Display omitted] • Sensitive and selective spectrofluorometric method. • Functionalized carbon quantum dots. • Potential diagnostic tool for olfactory dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Forensic examination of biological samples started at the beginning of the twentieth century by applying the ABO blood group system in evidence related to crimes or human identification. In the present study, real-time PCR multiplex was used to identify dried and stored swabs (saliva, nasal secretions, and menstrual blood) through the target genes of saliva (histatin 3 and statherin), nasal secretions (statherin and BPIFA1), and menstrual blood (metalloproteinases 10 and 7). Results The expressions of histatin 3 and statherin in the dried saliva decreased over days of storage with a significant p value of

Specific IgA antibody has been shown to play an important role in resistance to gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infections in sheep, particularly in Teladorsagia circumcincta parasitosis. In some breeds, negative associations have been shown between IgA levels and worm burden in experimentally infected sheep. In the present study, we have studied the relationship between IgA levels in naturally infected sheep (582 ewes in total; 193 younger than one year old and 389 older than one year old) and fecal egg count (FEC) in the Assaf, Castellana, and Churra breeds. ELISA assays were performed to measure IgA levels against the somatic antigen of T. circumcincta third larval stage (L3) and a 203-amino-acid fragment of the protein disulfide isomerase from the same GIN species. A multilevel random intercept model was developed to predict the infection risk according to age or breed. Spearman’s correlation rank was used for statistical analysis. The prediction model showed that breed was not an influential factor in this study, although the Assaf breed could be considered slightly more susceptible than the others. In addition, age affected the infection risk, with the young ewes more susceptible to infection than the adult groups, except for the Castellana breed, whose risk of infection was similar at all ages. The most significant positive association was found between FEC and IgA measured in the nasal secretions of young ewes using both antigens (Rho = 0.5; p = 0.00); the correlation of FEC with IgA in serum was moderately significant (Rho = 0.306; p = 0.00). Comparing both antigens, the protein disulfide isomerase antigen was less reactive than the somatic antigen from L3. In conclusion, under natural conditions, specific IgA against GIN was positively associated with FEC in sheep, with nasal secretions from young animals being the sample where this association is stronger, which, therefore, could be used as a marker of infection in further studies.

Local allergic rhinitis (LAR) is diagnosed based on the presence of clinical symptoms such as rhinorrhea, sneezing, and nasal itching using negative skin prick testing and serum IgE assessment. Several novel studies have shown that it is possible to use the assessment of nasal sIgE (specific immunoglobulin E) secretion as an additional diagnostic criterion for local allergic rhinitis. Additionally, allergen immunotherapy is a promising—albeit still not fully assessed and evaluated—future method of managing patients with LAR. In this review, the historical background, epidemiology, and main pathophysiological mechanisms of LAR shall be presented. Additionally, we address the current state of knowledge based on selected articles regarding the assessment of the local mucosal IgE presence in response to exposure to such allergens as mites, pollen, molds, and others. The impact of LAR on quality of life as well as the possible options of management (including allergen immunotherapy (AIT), which showed promising results) will then be presented.

Background: Forensic examination of biological samples started at the beginning of the twentieth century by applying the ABO blood group system in evidence related to crimes or human identification. In the present study, real-time PCR multiplex was used to identify dried and stored swabs (saliva, nasal secretions, and menstrual blood) through the target genes of saliva (histatin 3 and statherin), nasal secretions (statherin and BPIFA1), and menstrual blood (metalloproteinases 10 and 7). Results: The expressions of histatin 3 and statherin in the dried saliva decreased over days of storage with a significant p value of <0.001. BPIFA1 was highly expressed in nasal secretions, and the expression level significantly decreased throughout the study with a significant p value of <0.001. The MMP7 and MMP10 genes were highly expressed in the menstrual blood, and the expression level decreased over days of storage with a significant p value of p<0.001. Conclusions: Dried swabs of the saliva, Nasal secretions, Menstrual blood can be identified over the storage duration of the study using mRNA profiling of specific markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to describe selected epidemiological aspects of horses with acute onset of fever and respiratory signs testing qPCR-positive for S. equi and to determine the effect of vaccination against S. equi on qPCR status. Horses with acute onset of fever and respiratory signs from all regions of the United States were included in a voluntary biosurveillance program from 2008 to 2020 and nasal secretions were tested via qPCR for S. equi and common respiratory viruses. A total of 715/9409 equids (7.6%) tested qPCR-positive for S. equi, with 226 horses showing coinfections with EIV, EHV-1, EHV-4, and ERBV. The median age for the S. equi qPCR-positive horses was 8 ± 4 years and there was significant difference when compared to the median age of the S. equi qPCR-negative horses (6 ± 2 years; p = 0.004). Quarter Horse, Warmblood, and Thoroughbred were the more frequent breed in this horse population, and these breeds were more likely to test qPCR-positive for S. equi compared to other breeds. There was not statistical difference for sex between S. equi qPCR-positive and qPCR-negative horses. Horses used for competition and ranch/farm use were more likely to test qPCR-positive for S. equi (p = 0.006). Horses that tested S. equi qPCR-positive were more likely to display nasal discharge, fever, lethargy, anorexia, and ocular discharge compared to horses that tested S. equi qPCR-negative (p = 0.001). Vaccination against S. equi was associated with a lower frequency of S. equi qPCR-positive status.

The paper demonstrates a new approach to identify healthy calves ("healthy") and naturally occurring infectious bronchopneumonia ("sick") calves by analysis of the gaseous phase over nasal secretions using 16 piezoelectric sensors in two portable devices. Samples of nasal secretions were obtained from 50 red-motley Holstein calves aged 14--42 days. Calves were subjected to rectal temperature measurements, clinical score according to the Wisconsin respiratory scoring chart, thoracic auscultation, and radiography (Carestream DR, New York, USA). Of the 50 calves, we included samples from 40 (20 "healthy" and 20 "sick") in the training sample. The remaining ten calves (five "healthy" and five "sick") were included in the test sample. It was possible to divide calves into "healthy" and "sick" groups according to the output data of the sensor arrays (maximum sensor signals and calculated parameters Ai/j) using the principal component linear discriminant analysis (PCA--LDA) with an accuracy of 100%. The adequacy of the PCA--LDA model was verified on a test sample. It was found that data of sensors with films of carbon nanotubes, zirconium nitrate, hydroxyapatite, methyl orange, bromocresol green, and Triton X-100 had the most significance for dividing samples into groups. The differences in the composition of the gaseous phase over the samples of nasal secretions for such a classification could be explained by the appearance or change in the concentrations of ketones, alcohols, organic carboxylic acids, aldehydes, amines, including cyclic amines or those with a branched hydrocarbon chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the effects and adverse events of preparation Sinulan forte® containing extracts of five medicinal plants in comparison to mometasone furoate nasal spray (MFNS) in therapy of acute postviral rhinosinusitis (APRS). Methods: We included 46 APRS patients in this prospective investigation and randomized to two groups. The patients in group 1 (n=23) received MFNS 200 μg two times/day for ten days, and patients in group 2 (n=23) received Sinulan forte®, tablets 225 mg per os, two times/day also for ten days. We evaluated the total symptom score (TSS), the separate scores for individual symptoms (nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, postnasal discharge, facial pain, impaired sense of smell), the quality-of-life outcome, and the findings from nasal endoscopy (edema of the nasal mucosa, nasal secretion) prior and after the therapy. Results: Significantly lower absolute post-treatment scores and better relative improvement were identified for TSS, nasal congestion, facial pain, loss of the sense of smell, edema of the mucosa and nasal secretion in patients receiving herbal preparation (group 2). However, lower absolute post-treatment score and better relative improvement were found for rhinorrhea and postnasal drip in group 1. Clinically important differences were found regarding the TSS and endoscopic findings, with no adverse effects in group 2, but in group 1 two patients had mild nasal bleeding and two had sensation of dryness in the nasal mucosa. Conclusion: Herbal product Sinulan forte® can be a safe and effective treatment for APRS. Our results suggest no adverse events of this herbal preparation in comparison to intranasal corticosteroid spray therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More and more studies are reporting on the natural transmission of SARS-CoV-2 between humans with COVID-19 and their companion animals (dogs and cats). While horses are apparently susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection based on the homology between the human and the equine ACE-2 receptor, no clinical or subclinical infection has yet been reported in the equine species. To investigate the possible clinical role of SARS-CoV-2 in equids, nasal secretions from 667 horses with acute onset of fever and respiratory signs were tested for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 by qPCR. The samples were collected from January to December of 2020 and submitted to a commercial molecular diagnostic laboratory for the detection of common respiratory pathogens (equine influenza virus, equine herpesvirus-1/-4, equine rhinitis A and B virus, Streptococcus equi subspecies equi). An additional 633 serum samples were tested for antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 using an ELISA targeting the receptor-binding domain of the spike protein. The serum samples were collected from a cohort of 587 healthy racing Thoroughbreds in California after track personnel tested qPCR-positive for SARS-CoV-2. While 241/667 (36%) equids with fever and respiratory signs tested qPCR-positive for at least one of the common respiratory pathogens, not a single horse tested qPCR-positive for SARS-CoV-2. Amongst the racing Thoroughbreds, 35/587 (5.9%) horses had detectable antibodies to SARS-CoV-2. Similar to dogs and cats, horses do not seem to develop clinical SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, horses can act as incidental hosts and experience silent infection following spillover from humans with COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2-infected humans should avoid close contact with equids during the time of their illness.

Introduction: Charcot-Leyden crystal (CLC) protein has been regarded as a hallmark of eosinophilic inflammation. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the role and levels of CLC protein in patients with nonallergic rhinitis with eosinophilia syndrome (NARES). Methods: Overall, 39 NARES patients and 19 controls were recruited. The severity of nasal symptoms was measured by visual analogue scale and serum and local specific immunoglobulin E were determined in all patients. Nasal eosinophilia was assessed by semiquantitative analysis of eosinophils in nasal scrapings. Nasal secretion CLC protein concentrations were evaluated by ELISA. Results: CLC protein concentrations were significantly higher in NARES patients than in controls (p < 0.0001). Nasal secretion CLC protein levels were significantly correlated with the degree of eosinophilia in nasal scrapings (rs = 0.331; p = 0.04) in NARES patients. Patients with high CLC protein concentrations displayed more severe nasal symptoms than patients with low CLC protein concentrations (p = 0.0080), particularly, nasal itching (p = 0.0029). Pilot study in 8 NARES patients demonstrated that treatment for 1 month with intranasal fluticasone propionate significantly decreased the nasal secretion CLC protein concentrations from baseline levels (p = 0.0335) and markedly attenuated the degree of swelling of inferior turbinate. Conclusions: CLC protein levels are significantly higher in nasal secretions of NARES patients and associated with the degree of nasal eosinophilia and the severity of nasal symptoms. Significantly, nasal secretion CLC protein levels obviously decreased after treatment with intranasal corticosteroids, suggesting its possible role in evaluating the medical treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is growing interest both in testing IgE in nasal secretions (NS) and in molecular diagnosis of seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR). Yet, the reliability of nasal IgE detection with the newest molecular assays has never been assessed in a large cohort of pollen allergic patients. Objective: To investigate with microarray technology and compare the repertoires of specific IgE (sIgE) antibodies in NS and sera of a large population of children and adults with SAR. Methods: Nasal secretions were collected with an absorbent device (Merocel 2000®, Medtronic) and a minimal dilution procedure from 90 children and 71 adults with SAR. Total IgE (tIgE) (ImmunoCAP, Thermo Fisher Scientific (TFS)) and sIgE antibodies against 112 allergen molecules (ISAC‐112, TFS) were measured in NS and serum. Results: Nasal sIgE was detectable in 68.3% of the patients. The detected nasal sIgE antibodies recognized airborne (88%), vegetable (10%), and animal food or other (<1%) allergen molecules. The prevalence and average levels of sIgE in NS and serum were highly interrelated at population level. A positive nasal sIgE antibody to a given molecule predicted the detection of the same antibody in the patient's serum with a specificity of 99.7% and a sensitivity of 40%. Conclusions: The concentration of sIgE is much lower in nasal secretions than in the serum. sIgE assays with very high analytical sensitivity and sampling methods with minimal dilution will be therefore needed to validate nasal secretions as alternative to serum in testing the sIgE repertoire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper demonstrates a new approach to identify healthy calves (“healthy”) and naturally occurring infectious bronchopneumonia (“sick”) calves by analysis of the gaseous phase over nasal secretions using 16 piezoelectric sensors in two portable devices. Samples of nasal secretions were obtained from 50 red-motley Holstein calves aged 14–42 days. Calves were subjected to rectal temperature measurements, clinical score according to the Wisconsin respiratory scoring chart, thoracic auscultation, and radiography (Carestream DR, New York, USA). Of the 50 calves, we included samples from 40 (20 “healthy” and 20 “sick”) in the training sample. The remaining ten calves (five “healthy” and five “sick”) were included in the test sample. It was possible to divide calves into “healthy” and “sick” groups according to the output data of the sensor arrays (maximum sensor signals and calculated parameters Ai/j) using the principal component linear discriminant analysis (PCA–LDA) with an accuracy of 100%. The adequacy of the PCA–LDA model was verified on a test sample. It was found that data of sensors with films of carbon nanotubes, zirconium nitrate, hydroxyapatite, methyl orange, bromocresol green, and Triton X-100 had the most significance for dividing samples into groups. The differences in the composition of the gaseous phase over the samples of nasal secretions for such a classification could be explained by the appearance or change in the concentrations of ketones, alcohols, organic carboxylic acids, aldehydes, amines, including cyclic amines or those with a branched hydrocarbon chain.

In this study, we introduce an ultrasensitive and stable sensing platform based on gold nanoparticle decorated 3D reduced graphene oxide - carbon nanotube nanocomposites (GNP/CNT/rGO) for detection of tryptase (Tryp), which is a potential biomarker within nasal secretions for allergic rhinitis (AR). The GNP/CNT/rGO on the glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was fabricated through single-step one-pot electrochemical co-reduction and deposition. The GNP/CNT/rGO exhibited excellent electrocatalytic activity as the working electrode compared with bare GCE, GNP/rGO and CNT/rGO on GCEs. The enhanced performance of GNP/CNT/rGO may be attributed to 3D macroporous structures, which may provide increased surface area, faster charge transfer and lower mass transport resistance, as well as high electrocatalytic activity and good biocompatibility due to GNP. A GNP/CNT/rGO-based sandwich-type electrochemical immunosensor was fabricated for detection of Tryp, which requires high sensitivity and specificity. The GNP/CNT/rGO-based immunosensor exhibited a detection range from 100 pg/mL to 100 ng/mL, a detection limit of 50 pg/mL and a sensitivity of 1.64 μA/(ng/mL). This immunosensor possessed high selectivity, excellent reproducibility (RSD 2.1%) and high stability over approximately 1 month. Therefore, we expect that the GNP/CNT/rGO and the modified immunosensor will be useful tools for detecting Tryp in nasal secretions for clinical diagnosis of AR. Image 1 • We introduce an ultrasensitive and stable sensing platform based on 3D rGO nanocomposites. • The 3D GNP/CNT/rGO on GCE was fabricated by a single-step, one-pot electrochemical synthesis. • The GNP/CNT/rGO-modified electrode was applied as a sandwich-type immunosensor for tryptase. • This immunosensor exhibited high sensitivity, specificity, reproducibility and stability. • This immunosensor showed potential for clinical detection of tryptase in human nasal secretions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) is a type 2‐mediated inflammatory disease associated with significant clinical, social, and economic burdens and high unmet therapeutic need. Dupilumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody targeting the interleukin‐4 receptor α (IL‐4Rα) subunit, demonstrated efficacy and acceptable safety in CRSwNP and other type 2 diseases (eg, atopic dermatitis and asthma). We now report the local effects of dupilumab on type 2 inflammatory biomarkers in nasal secretions and nasal polyp tissues of patients with CRSwNP in a randomized, placebo‐controlled, phase 2 trial (NCT01920893). Methods: Cytokines, chemokines, and total immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels were measured using immunoassay techniques in nasal secretions and nasal polyp tissue homogenates of CRSwNP patients receiving dupilumab 300 mg or placebo weekly for 16 weeks. Results: With dupilumab, type 2 biomarker concentrations decreased in nasal secretions (least squares mean area under the curve from 0 to 16 weeks for the change from baseline) vs placebo for eotaxin‐3 (−30.06 vs −0.86 pg/mL; P = 0.0008) and total IgE (−7.90 vs −1.86 IU/mL; P = 0.022). Dupilumab treatment also decreased type 2 biomarker levels in nasal polyp tissues at Week 16 vs baseline for eosinophilic cationic protein (P = 0.008), eotaxin‐2 (P = 0.008), eotaxin‐3 (P = 0.031), pulmonary and activation‐regulated chemokine (P = 0.016), IgE (P = 0.023), and IL‐13 (P = 0.031). Conclusions: Dupilumab treatment reduced multiple biomarkers of type 2 inflammation in nasal secretions and polyp tissues of patients with CRSwNP, demonstrating that antagonism of IL‐4Rα signaling suppresses IL‐4‐/IL‐13‐dependent processes, such as mucosal IgE formation, as well as the expression of chemokines attracting inflammatory cells to the nasal mucosa. Dupilumab reduced multiple type 2 inflammation biomarkers in nasal secretions and polyp tissues of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis, including total IgE and chemoattractants for inflammatory cells Local reductions in type 2 biomarkers were consistent with overall, parallel improvements in nasosinal symptoms and reductions in polypoid tissue These findings suggest that inhibition of IL‐4/IL‐13 signaling via dupilumab‐mediated blockade of IL‐4Rα can suppress underlying inflammation of nasal polyposis, leading to clinical benefits [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is an important viral agent associated with severe infections of the upper and lower airways, especially in young children and immunosuppressed subjects. Nevertheless, in vitro studies of hMPV are very difficult due to the little knowledge we have on its laboratory manipulation. Objective: The aim of this study was to isolate and propagate hMPV from patients, and to establish a method to quantify the virus by plaque assay. Method: As part of a Latin American respiratory virus surveillance study, 12 nasal secretion samples – hMPV-positive by direct fluorescence – were inoculated on LLC-MK2 cells to isolate the virus. The supernatants were re-inoculated and the cytopathic effect and syncytium formation were evaluated daily; the infection was confirmed by immunofluorescence and RT-PCR. A protocol to titrate the harvested virus was established inoculating serial dilutions on LLC-MK2 cells, and agarose was then added as an overlay. After different time periods, the monolayers were fixed and stained with Naphthol blue/black or crystal violet and finally the viral titer was obtained. Results: Eight out of 12 hMPV-positive respiratory samples were positive for the isolation and confirmed by RT-PCR and immunofluorescence, but the cytopathic effect and syncytium formation were observed only in 5 cultures. One out of 8 viral isolates was used for propagation and plaque assay standardization. We found that incubation for 7 days in the semisolid overlay yielded plaques with appropriate size and shape to be counted, although crystal violet staining showed slightly larger plaques than those seen with Naphthol blue/black staining. Conclusions: The isolation and propagation from patient-derived hMPV and the standardization of a practical, reliable, and inexpensive method of detection and quantification of hMPV were carried out, without the additional use of antibodies that had not been reported previously. These results offer some important insights for future studies of cellular and molecular biology of hMPV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) remains an important pathogen of livestock more than 120 years after it was identified, with annual costs from production losses and vaccination estimated at €5.3–€17 billion (US$6.5–US$21 billion) in FMDV-endemic areas. Control and eradication are difficult because FMDV is highly contagious, genetically and antigenically diverse, infectious for a wide variety of species, able to establish subclinical carriers in ruminants, and widely geographically distributed. For early detection, sustained control, or eradication, sensitive and specific FMDV surveillance procedures compatible with high through-put testing platforms are required. At present, surveillance relies on the detection of FMDV-specific antibody or virus, most commonly in individual animal serum, vesicular fluid, or epithelial specimens. However, FMDV or antibody are also detectable in other body secretions and specimens, e.g., buccal and nasal secretions, respiratory exhalations (aerosols), mammary secretions, urine, feces, and environmental samples. These alternative specimens offer non-invasive diagnostic alternatives to individual animal sampling and the potential for more efficient, responsive, and cost-effective surveillance. Herein we review FMDV testing methods for contemporary and alternative diagnostic specimens and their application to FMDV surveillance in livestock (cattle, swine, sheep, and goats). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the changes of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), platelet-derived factor (PDGF), hyaluronic acid (HA) in nasal secretions and olfactory function in patients with chronic sinusitis before and after endoscopic sinus surgery. A total of 94 patients with chronic sinusitis treated at Xiangyang No.1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine (Xiangyang, China) from May 2016 to April 2017 were randomly divided into the control and observation groups, with 47 patients in each group. The observation underwent endoscopic sinus surgery, while the control group were treated with traditional extranasal surgery. The treatment efficacy of the two groups were compared 3 months after the treatment. A self-designed symptom questionnaire was used to evaluate the symptom scores. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect the TNF-α, PDGF and HA levels in nasal secretions. The olfactory function of the patients was evaluated by the standard T&T olfactometry test. The life quality before and after the treatment was compared by using the SNOT-20 questionnaire. The treatment efficacy of the observation group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P<0.05). Both groups showed improved symptom scores after the treatment, while improvement in the observation group was more obvious (P<0.05). The observation showed significantly lower TNF-α level than the control group (P<0.05). One, four and eight weeks after treatment, the levels of PDGF and HA were significantly higher in the observation group than in the control group (P<0.05). Both groups exhibited significantly improved olfactory function scores after treatment, and improvement in the observation group was more than that in the control group (P<0.05). After treatment, decreased scores of SNOT-20 in the observation group was more significant (P<0.05). Compared with traditional surgery, endoscopic surgery resulted in lighter postoperative inflammatory responses, better nasal mucosa repair, and more improved postoperative olfactory function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Nasal schirmer test which is a modified schirmer test can be used in evaluating the amount of nasal secretion. However, we do not know the normalized values of nasal shirmer test on Turkish population. The aim of the study is investigation of applicabilitiy and normal range values of nasal schirmer test on Turkish population. Methods: 200 healthy volunteers were included in the study. Standard schirmer test filter papers located adjacent to seromucinous glands of anterior septum, protruding from nostril anteriorly. Strip was removed by a forceps after 10 minutes of insertion. Moisted area on the strip was measured by milimeters. Results: Out of 200 subjectsbetween 18-45 years of age, 105 (52.5%) were female, 95 (47.5%) were male and mean age was 32.0±7.2. No voluntary complaints of irritation among all subjects. Mean schirmer value of all voluntary was 19±7. Mean schirmer value of females was 19.1±6.6 whereas it was 20.3±7.2 for males. No significance was detected in terms of gender. Conclusions: Nasal dryness and runny nose, which are commonly seen symptoms of many diseases, could be investigated by Schirmer test and the average value for the Turkish population is 19±7. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Nasal aspirators facilitate cleaning of the nose in children. Literature regarding the effectiveness and safety of their use in the youngest children is very scant. Aim. To compare efficacy, safety and parents' satisfaction with two nasal aspirators availabe in Poland - Katarek Complete and NoseFrida. Material and methods. The study was prospective and observational. 60 children with an acute rhinitis from 0 to 3 y-o were included in the study. Children were evaluated by the ENT specialist before and one week after the onset of the treatment. 30 patients were provided with the Katarek Complete and 30 with the NoseFrida nasal aspirators, in addition to the standard anti-inflammatory regimen. Parents were filling-in the one-week treatment questionnaire evaluating nasal patency and nasal discharge, side effects and their satisfaction with the aspirator they used. The data were collected and analyzed with the SPSS statistical software. Results. Comparison of both groups showed no significant differences in regards to the history, and physical exam results, both pre- and post-treatment. There were also no differences in symptoms severity of nasal blockage and nasal discharge in the first 5 days reported by parents nor in the side effects frequency between groups. Decrease in nasal blockage and nasal discharge were observed in the 6th and 7th day of treatment in patients using Katarek Complete. Parents' remarks concerning Katarek Complete were mainly technical issues - noise and the connection to the vacuum-cleaner and in the case of NoseFrida - the passage of the aspired discharge into their mouths and small and unstable aspiration power of the device. Conclusions. The use of both nasal aspirators is easy and does not cause major technical issues. Katarek Complete aspirator was considered more efficient in parents' subjective evaluation. Both aspirators were considered to be safe with only minor side effects reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Intranasal Schirmer test serves as an objective measurement for evaluation of nasal secretion and humidity. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of septal deviation on nasal secretion and humidity by measuring the intranasal Schirmer test values in patients who had septal deviation and compare it to the values of our healthy volunteers. Methods: The study included 52 patients with nasal septum deviation and 52 volunteers without any rhinologic complaints or deviated nasal septum. Intranasal Schirmer test was performed to all patients and volunteers for both nasal cavities. Results: The intranasal Schirmer test values of the convex (deviated) side were lower than that of the concave (non-deviated) side (20.71 and 23.35 respectively); although this difference was not statistically significant (p=0.054,). After excluding the four patients with equal Schirmer test results on both sides, 70% (34/48) of our patients had lower intranasal Schirmer test values on the deviated side. There was no statistically significant difference between the Schirmer test values of the patients with septal deviation and the volunteers without septal deviation (p>0.05). Conclusion: The Schirmer test values of the deviated sides were less than the values of the contralateral side in majority of our patients. This finding supports the negative effect of nasal septum deviation on nasal humidification, although the difference did not reach statistical significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) disease has no effective treatment. JNJ-53718678 is a fusion inhibitor with selective activity against RSV.Methods: After confirmation of RSV infection or 5 days after inoculation with RSV, participants (n = 69) were randomized to JNJ-53718678 75 mg (n = 15), 200 mg (n = 17), 500 mg (n = 18), or placebo (n = 17) orally once daily for 7 days. Antiviral effects were evaluated by assessing RSV RNA viral load (VL) area under the curve (AUC) from baseline (before the first dose) until discharge, time-to-peak VL, duration of viral shedding, clinical symptoms, and quantity of nasal secretions.Results: Mean VL AUC was lower for individuals treated with different doses of JNJ-53718678 versus placebo (203.8-253.8 vs 432.8 log10 PFUe.hour/mL). Also, mean peak VL, time to peak VL, duration of viral shedding, mean overall symptom score, and nasal secretion weight were lower in each JNJ-53718678-treated group versus placebo. No clear exposure-response relationship was observed. Three participants discontinued due to treatment-emergent adverse events of grade 2 and 1 electrocardiogram change (JNJ-53718678 75 mg and 200 mg, respectively) and grade 2 urticaria (placebo).Conclusions: JNJ-53718678 at all 3 doses substantially reduced VL and clinical disease severity, thus establishing clinical proof of concept and the compound's potential as a novel RSV treatment.Clinical trials registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02387606; EudraCT number: 2014-005041-41. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Canadian Veterinary Journal / Revue Vétérinaire Canadienne is the property of Canadian Veterinary Medical Association and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose. The antibacterial effect of hypochlorous acid (HOCl) solution on nasal secretion of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) was investigated. Materials and Methods. Five swab specimens were collected from the middle meatus of CRS patients. The first one was placed directly in a Thanswab tube while all of the others were placed randomly into 4 glass tubes containing either HOCl solution, normal saline (NS), 75% alcohol, or povidone-iodine (PVPI) solution for one minute in the first part and for 5 minutes in the second part of the study before transfer to a Thanswab tube. Results. Bacteria were cultured from 27 of 50 specimens when they were put directly in a Thanswab tube and from 26 after soaking in HOCl solution, 27 in NS, 13 in 75% alcohol, and 25 in PVPI solution for one minute. In the second part of the study, bacteria were cultured from 14 of 32 specimens when they were put directly in a Thanswab tube and from 14 after soaking in HOCl solution, 13 in NS, 3 in 75% alcohol, and 11 in PVPI solution for 5 minutes. Conclusions. This study showed that HOCL solution did not exert an antibacterial effect on nasal secretion from CRS patients within 5 minutes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract. Eosinophils are regarded as major cell population directly involved into late phase of allergic inflammation of nasal mucosa. We performed a comparative study, measuring the amounts of eosinophils and eosinophilic cationic protein (ECP) in nasal secretions and serum samples of thirty-three patients with persistent allergic rhinitis (PAR), and twenty-five persons with chronic infectious rhinitis (CIR), to determine diagnostic significance of these parameters. Eosinophil counts in nasal secret were carried out by exfoliative cytology analysis. Sampling of nasal secretions was performed by absorption method. The samples were standardized by concentration of urea in nasal secretions and sera. ЕСР levels in nasal secretions and serum were determined by chemiluminescence assays (UniCAP 100, Phadia, Sweden). Mean scores of eosinophils in nasal secret of PAR patients were 4.6 times higher, than in the patients with CIR. Median ECP values in serum and nasal secretions of PAR patients were, resp., 30.5±28.0 μg/l and 402.7±326.9 μg/l. In patients with CIR, ECP values were 12.4±11.5 μg/l in serum and 86.9±137.4 μg/l in nasal secretions. The appropriate differences have been significant (р < 0.05). No correlations were found between ECP levels in serum and nasal secretions, as well as between ECP levels and eosinophil counts in nasal secretions. The technique of ECP determination in nasal secretions was the most sensitive approach, whereas counting of eosinophils proved to be the most specific method. ECP levels in nasal secretions well characterize an active phase of allergic inflammation and may be used as quantitative parameter for estimation of PAR severity.

Abstract. Forty four patients with persistent allergic rhinitis and sensitization to the house dust mites were observed. All the patients have been examined in conformity with international diagnostic standards. The first group of observation included fifteen patients who received intranasal therapy by flutikasone propionate nasal spray at a dose of 200 mkg once a day for two weeks. The second group of observation included fourteen patients who received 10 inhalations of Affinoleukin® (a lyophilized complex of low molecular weight proteins from human leukocyte membranes with glycine), as aerosol, at a single dose of 2 units. Fifteen non-treated patients comprised a group of comparison. Eosinophil counts and concentrations of free hemoglobin (by immunometrical method in co-agglutination reaction) were made in nasal secretions twice (before treatment and two weeks later). It was found that the increase of free hemoglobin levels, as well as increase in eosinophil count in nasal secretions represents a symptom typical of exacerbation in persistent allergic rhinitis and reflects severity of disease. The therapy led to significant clinical improvement, decrease in free hemoglobin levels and eosinophil counts in nasal secretions, corresponding to clinical effect of both therapeutic modes of topical pharmacotherapy, resp., in 73% and 79% of the patients with persisting allergic rhinitis. Decrease in free hemoglobin level has allowed for the first time to reveal the immunotherapeutic efficiency of treatment with Affinoleukin® aerosol during exacerbations of persisting allergic rhinitis.

Neutrophil recruitment to the nasopharynx (NP) is a central event in resolution of NP-initiated microbial infections. A vigorous neutrophil response in infected tissues is also associated with the outcome of adverse tissue pathology. Therefore, differences in infection-induced tissue neutrophil numbers may correlate with pathogenesis events. Existing methods of quantifying neutrophils require evaluation of NP samples within hours of procurement as flow cytometry based cell quantification methods require live neutrophil cells. Therefore, we developed a novel RT-PCR method that could reliably quantify neutrophil counts in frozen NP wash samples. mRNA transcripts of the genes encoding CD16, CD18, and CD62L were identified as neutrophil-specific in NP samples and not significantly variable in response to stimulation by heat killed bacteria, and can be used to derive an accurate assessment of neutrophil content in a sample even in the presence of epithelial cells. Using flow cytometry as a comparator, the method was validated in human NP wash samples. We conclude that this PCR-based method should prove useful for providing a quantitative estimate of neutrophil recruitment to the NP during infection and pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrafine particles emitted from laser printers are suspected to elicit adverse health effects. We performed 75-minute exposures to emissions of laser printing devices ( LPDs) in a standardized, randomized, cross-over manner in 23 healthy subjects, 14 mild, stable asthmatics, and 15 persons reporting symptoms associated with LPD emissions. Low-level exposures ( LLE) ranged at the particle background (3000 cm−3) and high-level exposures ( HLE) at 100 000 cm−3. Examinations before and after exposures included spirometry, body plethysmography, transfer factors for CO and NO ( TLCO, TLNO), bronchial and alveolar NO, cytokines in serum and nasal secretions ( IL-1β, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, GM- CSF, IFNγ, TNFα), serum ECP, and IgE. Across all participants, no statistically significant changes occurred for lung mechanics and NO. There was a decrease in volume-related TLNO that was more pronounced in HLE, but the difference to LLE was not significant. ECP and IgE increased in the same way after exposures. Nasal IL-6 showed a higher increase after LLE. There was no coherent pattern regarding the responses in the participant subgroups or single sets of variables. In conclusion, the experimental acute responses to short but very high-level LPD exposures were small and did not indicate clinically relevant effects compared to low particle number concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE To develop and evaluate a pyramid training method for teaching techniques for collection of diagnostic samples from swine. DESIGN Experimental trial. SAMPLE 45 veterinary students. PROCEDURES Participants went through a preinstruction assessment to determine their familiarity with the equipment needed and techniques used to collect samples of blood, nasal secretions, feces, and oral fluid from pigs. Participants were then shown a series of videos illustrating the correct equipment and techniques for collecting samples and were provided hands-on pyramid-based instruction wherein a single swine veterinarian trained 2 or 3 participants on each of the techniques and each of those participants, in turn, trained additional participants. Additional assessments were performed after the instruction was completed. RESULTS Following the instruction phase, percentages of participants able to collect adequate samples of blood, nasal secretions, feces, and oral fluid increased, as did scores on a writ ten quiz assessing participants' ability to identify the correct equipment, positioning, and procedures for collection of samples. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggested that the pyramid training method may be a feasible way to rapidly increase diagnostic sampling capacity during an emergency veterinary response to a swine disease outbreak. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reasons for performing study The ante mortem diagnosis of equine multinodular pulmonary fibrosis ( EMPF) relies on histopathological results and polymerase chain reaction ( PCR)-positive equine herpesvirus ( EHV)-5 testing of lung tissue. Polymerase chain reaction detection of EHV-5 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid ( BALF) is commonly used to support a diagnosis of EMPF. However, the diagnostic power of EHV-5 testing on BALF and other biological samples such as blood and nasal secretions has yet to be shown to support a diagnosis of EMPF. Objectives To determine the frequency of detection and the viral loads of EHV-5 by quantitative PCR ( qPCR) in blood, nasal secretions and BALF from horses confirmed with EMPF, healthy horses and horses with non- EMPF pulmonary diseases. Study design Prospective study. Methods The study population consisted of 70 adult horses divided into 4 groups based on a combination of clinical findings, cytology of BALF, imaging studies of the thoracic cavity and histopathology of pulmonary tissue: control group (n = 14), EMPF group (n = 11); inflammatory airway disease group (n = 32); and non- EMPF interstitial lung disease group (n = 13). For each horse, whole blood, nasal secretions and BALF were available for EHV-5 qPCR testing. Sensitivities, specificities and their respective 95% confidence intervals were calculated for viral loads from blood, nasal secretions and BALF. In addition, these measures were calculated for combined use of blood and nasal secretions. Results The detection of EHV-5 in BALF was strongly associated with EMPF (sensitivity 91%, specificity 98.3%). Detection of EHV-5 in blood was, independent of the viral loads, strongly associated with EMPF with a sensitivity of 91% and specificity of 83.1%. The detection of EHV-5 in nasal secretions displayed the highest sensitivity (72.7%) and specificity (83.1%) at a level of >245,890 glycoprotein B target genes/million cells to support a diagnosis of EMPF. Dually positive blood and nasal secretions at any viral loads in support of EMPF yielded a sensitivity and specificity of 90% and 89.8%, respectively. Conclusions Although histopathological confirmation (lung biopsy) is considered the gold standard for EMPF diagnosis, results of qPCR testing of BALF or a combination of whole blood and nasal secretions should be regarded as clinically useful in support of this diagnosis. The latter testing may be relevant when dealing with horses in respiratory distress, for which invasive procedures such as BALF collection or lung biopsies may be detrimental to their health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ConclusionThe HNE–TACE signalling pathway has an important role in the process of MUC5AC overexpression in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).ObjectivesTo provide evidence of HNE-induced MUC5AC overexpression in CRS via TACE.MethodHE and PAS staining were used to assess the pathological changes in sinus mucosa samples from CRS or normal control. HNE, TACE, and MUC5AC expression in the sinonasal mucosa was determined using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). In addition, the MUC5AC and TACE expression was determined in a primary culture of human nasal mucosa epithelial cellsin vitro.ResultsOn HE staining, the main pathological feature in the sinus mucosa of CRS patients was hyperplasia of goblet cells, inflammatory cells, and submucosal glands. Mucosa from the two experimental groups also showed strong expression on PAS staining. IHC and qRT-PCR demonstrated that HNE, TACE, and MUC5AC expression was significantly higher in the CRS patients compared with control samples (p < 0.05). MUC5AC mRNA expression was higher in cells stimulated by HNE than in untreated cells (p < 0.05). MUC5AC mRNA expression was significantly reduced in cells pre-treated with the TACE inhibitor TAPI-1 prior to HNE stimulation, compared with untreated and HNE-stimulated cells (p < 0.01). [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background An increased production of several chemoattractants, responsible for guiding the eosinophilic inflammatory process, has been reported in chronic rhinitis. The aim of this study was to evaluate nasal secretion levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), MCP-3, and regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES) and to correlate those levels with nasal symptoms and degree of eosinophilia in patients with nonallergic rhinitis with eosinophilia syndrome (NARES) and perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR). Methods Fourteen patients with PAR and 14 NARES patients were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Fourteen healthy subjects were included as controls. The concentrations of MCP-1, MCP-3, and RANTES in nasal secretions were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Eosinophil counts were performed by percentage of differential granulocyte counts during cytological examination of scraped nasal mucosa obtained from the inferior turbinate. Therefore, we scored rhinitis patients according to nasal symptom score. Results We found significantly higher concentrations of MCP-1 ( p < 0.0001), MCP-3 ( p = 0.018), and RANTES ( p < 0.0001) in nasal fluid of NARES patients compared to patients with PAR. In PAR patients, we found positive correlation between RANTES levels and nasal symptom score and eosinophil counts. In patients with NARES, the concentrations of MCP-1 and RANTES were associated with nasal symptom score and percentage of eosinophils. Conclusion NARES is characterized by higher degree of eosinophilic inflammation than PAR. RANTES correlates well with the level of eosinophilic inflammation in both diseases. The measurement of chemokine levels in nasal secretions could be useful in evaluating the degree of chronic nasal inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]