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In the present situation human health is a very important factor. With today's growing technology, health conditions are deteriorating day by day. Malnutrition, lifestyle play a very important role. These are leading to many diseases such as respiratory infections, heart disease, diabetes, Cancer, Alzheimer's, strokes and many more. Among these, few diseases are curable, due to the facilities available. Whereas few may be non-curable if care is not taken in the initial stages. Cancer poses the biggest threat among all life-threatening diseases. An efficient lesion segmentation method is introduced for the detection of Melanoma skin cancer disease at the preliminary stages using Adaptive Contour Model (ACM). High-quality segmentation is achieved based on contour features and sharp edge detection using ACM. The performance of the proposed Adaptive Contour Model (ACM) is tested upon PH2 and ISIC Challenge 2017 Dataset. The Performance matrices for the segmentation process are measured in terms of Jaccard index (JA), Dice coefficient (DI) and accuracy that are found to be 79.23, 87.26 and 94.63 considering ISIC dataset and 89.14, 93.98 and 96.95 which is quite high considering PH2 dataset. A method for detection of melanoma has been the critical need of the day. The proposed method shows that the performance of the Adaptive Contour Model (ACM) is more than 95%, which is better than other methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast-feeding offers plenty of benefits for both infants and mothers, however, most studies have mostly been concerned with the health of infants (1) (2). As far as infants are concerned, breastfeeding is associated with nutritional advantages and a reduced risk of acute otitis media, atopic dermatitis, gastrointestinal infections, lower respiratory tract diseases, asthma, obesity, sudden infant death syndrome (3) or even childhood leukemia (4). The health outcomes of the breastfeeding mother include reduced risk for breast, endometrial and ovarian cancer are well documented (5) (6) (7). In our article we will focus on the impact of breast-feeding on lowering the risk of diabetes mellitus in mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the incidence of Class B respiratory infectious diseases (RIDs) in China under the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic and examines variations post-epidemic, following the relaxation of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs). Two-stage evaluation was used in our study. In the first stage evaluation, we established counterfactual models for the pre-COVID-19 period to estimate expected incidences of Class B RIDs without the onset of the epidemic. In the second stage evaluation, we constructed seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average intervention (SARIMA-Intervention) models to evaluate the impact on the Class B RIDs after NPIs aimed at COVID-19 pandemic were relaxed. The counterfactual model in the first stage evaluation suggested average annual increases of 10.015%, 78.019%, 70.439%, and 67.799% for tuberculosis, scarlet fever, measles, and pertussis respectively, had the epidemic not occurred. In the second stage evaluation, the total relative reduction in 2023 of tuberculosis, scarlet fever, measles and pertussis were − 35.209%, − 59.184%, − 4.481%, and − 9.943% respectively. The actual incidence declined significantly in the first stage evaluation. However, the results of the second stage evaluation indicated that a rebound occurred in four Class B RIDs after the relaxation of NPIs; all of these showed a negative total relative reduction rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) is a prevalent respiratory infectious disease in children. Given the increasing resistance of M. pneumoniae (MP) to macrolide antibiotics, the identification of new therapeutic agents is critical. Yinqin Qingfei granules (YQQFG), a Chinese patent medicine formulated specifically for pediatric MPP, lacks a clear explanation of its mechanism. Methods: The primary components of YQQFG were identified using LC-MS/MS. In vitro, RAW264.7 cells infected with MP underwent morphological examination via scanning electron microscopy. Drug-containing serum was prepared, and its intervention concentration was determined using the CCK-8 assay. The active components of YQQFG were molecularly docked with NLRP3 protein using Autodock Vina software. A RAW264.7 cell line overexpressing NLRP3 was created using lentivirus to pinpoint the target of YQQFG. In vivo, MPP model mice were established via nasal instillation of MP. Lung damage was assessed by lung index and H&E staining. Pyroptosis-associated protein levels in cells and lung tissue were measured by western blot, while interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 levels in cell supernatants and mouse serum were quantified using ELISA. Immunofluorescence double staining of lung tissue sections was conducted to assess the correlation between NLRP3 protein expression and macrophages. The expression of the community-acquired respiratory distress syndrome toxin (CARDS TX) was evaluated by qPCR. Results: 25 effective components with favorable oral bioavailability were identified in YQQFG. Both in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that YQQFG substantially reduced the expression of the NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD pathway, decreasing the release of IL-1β and IL-18, and inhibited MP exotoxin. Molecular docking indicated strong affinity between most YQQFG components and NLRP3 protein. Lentivirus transfection and immunofluorescence double staining confirmed that YQQFG significantly suppressed NLRP3 expression in macrophages, outperforming azithromycin (AZM). The combination of YQQFG and AZM yielded the optimal therapeutic effect for MPP. Conclusion: YQQFG mitigates inflammatory responses by suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated macrophage pyroptosis, thereby ameliorating MP-induced acute lung injury. YQQFG serves as an effective adjunct and alternative medication for pediatric MPP treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a prevalent respiratory disease and ranks third in global mortality rates, imposing a significant burden on patients and society. This review looks at recent research, both domestically and abroad, on the application of machine learning (ML) for early COPD screening. The review discusses the practical application, key optimization points, and prospects of ML techniques in early COPD screening. The aim is to establish a scientific foundation and reference framework for future research and the development of screening strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: With the backdrop of global climate change, the impact of climate change on respiratory diseases like asthma is receiving increasing attention. However, the effects of temperature and diurnal temperature range (DTR) on asthma are complex, and understanding these effects across different seasons, age groups, and sex is of utmost importance. Methods: This study utilized asthma hospitalization data from Lanzhou, China, and implemented a distributed lag nonlinear model (DLNM) to investigate the relationship between temperature and DTR and asthma hospitalizations. It considered differences in the effects across various seasons and population subgroups. Results: The study revealed that low temperatures immediately increase the risk of asthma hospitalization (RR = 1.2010, 95% CI: 1.1464, 1.2580), and this risk persists for a period of time. Meanwhile, both high and low DTR were associated with an increased risk of asthma hospitalization. Lower temperatures (RR = 2.9798, 95% CI: 1.1154, 7.9606) were associated with higher asthma risk in the warm season, while in the cold season, the risk significantly rose for the general population (RR = 3.6867, 95% CI: 1.7494, 7.7696), females (RR = 7.2417, 95% CI: 2.7171, 19.3003), and older individuals (RR = 18.5425, 95% CI: 5.1436, 66.8458). In the warm season, low DTR conditions exhibited a significant association with asthma hospitalization risk in males (RR = 7.2547, 95% CI: 1.2612, 41.7295) and adults aged 15–64 (RR = 9.9494, 95% CI: 2.2723, 43.5643). Children also exhibited noticeable risk within specific DTR ranges. In the cold season, lower DTR increases the risk of asthma hospitalization for the general population (RR = 3.1257, 95% CI: 1.4004, 6.9767). High DTR significantly increases the risk of asthma hospitalization in adults (RR = 5.2563, 95% CI: 2.4131, 11.4498). Conclusion: This study provides crucial insights into the complex relationship between temperature, DTR, and asthma hospitalization, highlighting the variations in asthma risk across different seasons and population subgroups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous studies have been conducted in other countries on the health effects of exposure to particulate matter with a diameter of 10 microns or less P M 10 , but little research has been conducted in Malaysia, particularly during the haze season. This study intends to investigate how exposure of P M 10 influenced hospital admissions for respiratory diseases during the haze period in peninsula Malaysia and it was further stratified by age group, gender and respiratory diseases categories. The study includes data from all patients with respiratory diseases in 92 government hospitals, as well as P M 10 concentration and meteorological data from 92 monitoring stations in Peninsula Malaysia starting from 1st January 2000 to 31st December 2019. A quasi-poison time series regression with distributed lag nonlinear model (DLNM) was employed in this study to examine the relationship between exposure of P M 10 and hospital admissions for respiratory diseases during the haze period. Haze period for this study has been defined from June to September each year. According to the findings of this study, P M 10 was positively associated with hospitalisation of respiratory disease within 30 lag days under various lag patterns, with lag 25 showing the strongest association (RR = 1.001742, CI 1.001029,1.002456). Using median as a reference, it was discovered that females were more likely than males to be hospitalized for P M 10 exposure. Working age group will be the most affected by the increase in P M 10 exposure with a significant cumulative RR from lag 010 to lag 030. The study found that P M 10 had a significant influence on respiratory hospitalisation in peninsula Malaysia, particularly for lung diseases caused by external agents(CD5). Therefore, it is important to implement effective intervention measures to control P M 10 and reduce the burden of respiratory disease admissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dicaffeoylquinic acids (DCQAs) are polyphenolic compounds found in various medicinal plants such as Echinacea species and Hedera helix, whose multiconstituent extracts are used worldwide to treat respiratory diseases. Besides triterpenes, saponins, alkamides, and other constituents, DCQAs are an important group of substances for the pharmacological activity of plant-derived extracts. Therefore, the pharmacological properties of DCQAs have been studied over the last decades, suggesting antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hypoglycaemic, cardiovascular protective, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective effects. However, the beneficial pharmacological profile of DCQAs has not yet been linked to their use in treating respiratory diseases such as acute or even chronic bronchitis. The aim of this review was to assess the potential of DCQAs for respiratory indications based on published in vitro and in vivo pharmacological and pre-clinical data, with particular focus on antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and respiratory-related effects such as antitussive or antispasmodic properties. A respective literature search revealed a large number of publications on the six DCQA isoforms. Based on this search, a focus was placed on 1,3-, 3,4-, 3,5-, and 4,5-DCQA, as the publications focused mainly on these isomers. Based on the available pre-clinical data, DCQAs trigger cellular mechanisms that are important in the treatment of respiratory diseases such as decreasing NF-κB activation, reducing oxidative stress, or activating the Nrf2 pathway. Taken together, these data suggest an essential role for DCQAs within herbal medicines used for the treatment of respiratory diseases and highlights the need for the identifications of DCQAs as lead substances within such extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractBackground and ObjectiveMethodsResultsConclusionsAsthma is a heterogeneous respiratory disease characterized by airway hyper-responsiveness and reversible airflow blockage. There is ongoing debate about the impact of vitamin D on asthma. This research is focused on investigating the correlation between serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and asthma.This cross-sectional study comprised 22,708 eligible participants. Data on asthma and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2018 were analyzed. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were the main factor, with the presence of asthma as the outcome variable. Weighted logistic regression was utilized to investigate the relationship between serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and asthma, while accounting for factors such as age, gender, race, length of time in US, annual family income, education level, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and cholesterol.Upon adjusting all variables in model III, epi-25-hydroxyvitamin D3 displayed a negative correlation with current asthma at the lower quartile Q1 (0.784, [0.697 to 0.922]), Q2 (0.841, [0.729 to 0.946]), Q3 (0.396, [0.240 to 0.653]) when compared to the highest quartile Q4 level. However, no significant difference was observed between asthma and 25-hydroxyvitamin D2, as well as 25-hydroxyvitamin D3.In the U.S. population, elevated levels of epi-25-hydroxyvitamin D3 are correlated with an increased risk of developing existing asthma. However, it is important to interpret this finding carefully given the constraints of cross-sectional studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Studying the characteristics of hospitalized Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients is vital for understanding the disease and preparing for future outbreaks. The aim of this study was to analyze and describe the clinical profiles and factors associated with mortality among COVID-19 patients admitted to Jimma Medical Center COVID-19 Treatment Center (JMC CTC) in Ethiopia. Methods: All confirmed COVID-19 patients admitted to JMC CTC between 17 April 2020 and 05 March 2022 were included in this study. Socio-demographic data, clinical information, and outcome variables were collected retrospectively from medical records and COVID-19 database at the hospital. Bivariable and multivariable analyses were performed to determine factors associated with COVID-19 severity and mortality. A P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 542 confirmed COVID-19 patients were admitted to JMC CTC, of which 322 (59.4%) were male. Their median age was 48 years (IQR 32–64). About 51% (n = 277) of them had severe COVID-19 upon admission. Patients with hypertension [AOR: 2.8 (95% CI: 1.02–7.7, p = 0.046)], diabetes [AOR: 8.8 (95% CI: 1.2–17.3, p = 0.039)], and underlying respiratory diseases [AOR: 18.8 (95% CI: 2.06–71.51, p = 0.009)] were more likely to present with severe COVID-19 cases. Overall, 129 (23.8%) died in the hospital. Death rate was higher among patients admitted with severe disease [AHR = 5.5 (3.07–9.9) p < 0.001)] and those with comorbidities such as hypertension [AHR = 3.5 (2.28–5.41), p < 0.001], underlying respiratory disease [AHR = 3.4 (1.97–5.94), p < 0.001], cardiovascular disease (CVDs) [AHR = 2.8 (1.73–4.55), p < 0.001], and kidney diseases [AHR = 3.7 (2.3–5.96), p < 0.001]. Conclusion: About half of COVID-19 cases admitted to the hospital had severe disease upon admission. Comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, and respiratory diseases were linked to severe illness. COVID-19 admissions were associated with high inpatient mortality, particularly among those with severe disease and comorbidities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Addressing knowledge and concerns related to corticosteroid is essential to enhance patient care, promote optimal utilization, and minimize their potential side effects. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess knowledge and attitudes regarding corticosteroid use among healthcare providers (HCPs) in the United Arab Emirates using a validated questionnaire. Knowledge, attitudes, and fear items were described as frequency and percentages. Then, a total score was calculated; multilinear regression was used to see the effect of demographics on these scores. Results: Among 129 HCPs, 100 had previously prescribed corticosteroids (77.5%), with intranasal spray being the most dispensed dosage form (89.0%). Respiratory diseases were the most reported indication for corticosteroid dispensing (93.0%). HCPs preferred corticosteroids for their ability to quickly relief of patients' symptoms (67.0%). About 60.0% identified increased appetite as a patient-reported side effect. The assessment of the HCPs' knowledge showed a median score of 10 out of 11 (IQR = 9–11). The median fear score was six out of 10 (IQR = 4–10), but they were significantly and conversely related to each other. Conclusion: This study revealed that while HCPs in the UAE possess substantial knowledge regarding corticosteroid use, their concerns, particularly around side effects, indicate a need for further education. Addressing these concerns through targeted educational programs could enhance the safe and effective utilization of corticosteroids, ultimately improving patient care outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Research quality can be improved with reliable and reproducible experimental results when animal experiments are conducted using laboratory animals with guaranteed microbiological and genetic quality through health monitoring. Therefore, health monitoring requires the rapid and accurate diagnosis of infectious diseases in laboratory animals. Methods: This study presents a performance evaluation of a commercially available multiplex real-time PCR (mRT-PCR) assay for the rapid detection of 12 infectious pathogens (Set 1: Sendai virus [SeV, formally murine respirovirus], Mycoplasma spp., Rodentibacter pneumotropicus, and Rodentibacter heylii; Set 2: Helicobacter spp., Murine norovirus [MNV], Murine hepatitis virus [MHV], and Salmonella spp.; Set 3: Staphylococcus aureus, Streptobacillus moniliformis, Corynebacterium kutscheri, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). To evaluate the efficacy of the mRT-PCR assay, 102 clinical samples encompassing fecal and cecal specimens were analyzed. The resulting data were then compared with the findings from sequence analysis for validation. Results: The assay’s detection limit ranged from 1 to 100 copies per reaction. Specificity testing involving various viruses and bacteria indicated no crossreactivity between strains. Additionally, the assay exhibited good reproducibility, with mean coefficients of variation for inter- and intra assay variation below 3%. The overall positive rate was 52.9% (n  =  54), with the mRT-PCR assay findings matching sequence analysis results (κ  =  1). MHV (n  =  29, 28.4%) was the most prevalent pathogen, followed by Helicobacter spp. (n  =  28, 27.5%), R. heylii (n  =  18, 17.6%), Mycoplasma spp. (n  =  14, 13.7%), MNV (n  =  12, 11.8%), S. aureus (n  =  9, 8.8%), P. aeruginosa (n  =  4, 3.9%), and R. pneumotropicus (n  =  1, 0.9%). Discussion: This assay offers a rapid turnaround time of 100 min, including 30 min for DNA preparation and 70 min for target DNA/RNA amplification. It ensures accuracy, minimizing false positives or negatives, making it a convenient tool for the simultaneous detection of infectious diseases in many samples. Overall, the propose-d assay holds promise for the effective detection of the most important pathogens in laboratory animal health monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cryptococcosis is a fungal disease affecting the respiratory and central nervous system in HIV-infected individuals, causing life-threatening symptoms and necessitating prompt diagnosis, with approximately 5% of infected individuals developing it. Case Report: A 35-year-old HIV-positive male patient presented with abdominal pain, fever, and cough, without cervical lymphadenopathy. USG revealed multiple enlarged lymph nodes, and FNAC was performed. Result: Cytological examination revealed lymphocytes, histiocytes, granulomas, and necrotic material, along with budding yeast of Cryptococcus neoformans. PAS, GMS, Indian ink, CSF, and bone marrow tests confirmed Cryptococci. Conclusion: FNAC is a safe and efficient technique for early diagnosis of Cryptococcal lymphadenitis, a rare presentation in lymphadenopathy, highlighting its potential for rapid treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The study aimed to assess the control of asthma and the severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and evaluate the adequacy of treatment in patients presenting to the outpatient department (OPD) across India. The secondary aim was to assess the risk factors associated with poorly controlled asthma and severe COPD. Materials and Methods: This is the analysis of Phase IV of the multicenter questionnaire-based point prevalence SWORD survey, conducted in May 2018, and designed to capture details on disease control and treatment as per the global initiative for asthma and the global initiative for chronic obstructive lung disease guidelines. Results: Of the 5,311 respiratory disease patients presenting to the OPD, there were 1,419 and 412 patients with asthma and COPD, respectively, across 290 sites in India. There were 1,022 (72%) patients having well-controlled asthma, 293 (20.6%) patients with partly controlled asthma, and 104 (7.4%) patients with poorly controlled asthma. Of the 412 patients with COPD, there were 307 (74.5%) in A, 54 (13.1%) in B, and 51 (12.4%) in the E category. In spite of poor control or severe disease, 34.8% of asthmatic and 25.7% of patients in the B and E categories of COPD were not using any medicine. Risk factors for partly and poorly controlled asthma included rain wetting (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.59, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02--2.47) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (AOR: 1.50, 95%CI: 1.08--2.10). Conclusion: This study identifies a gap in the treatment of both poorly controlled asthma and severe COPD. A substantial number of patients had poorly controlled asthma and severe COPD, and many were either not taking treatment or taking it inappropriately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dry powder inhalers (DPIs) are widely employed to treat respiratory diseases, offering numerous advantages such as high dose capacity and stable formulations. However, they usually face challenges in achieving sufficient pulmonary drug delivery and minimizing excessive oropharyngeal deposition. This review provides a new viewpoint to address these challenges by focusing on the role of swirling flow, a crucial yet under-researched aspect that induces strong turbulence. In the review, we comprehensively discuss both key classic designs (tangential inlet, swirling chamber, grid mesh, and mouthpiece) and innovative designs in inhalers, exploring how the induced swirling flow initiates powder dispersion and promotes delivery efficiency. Valuable design considerations to effectively coordinate inhalers with formulations and patients are also provided. It is highlighted that the delicate manipulation of swirling flow is essential to maximize benefits. By emphasizing the role of swirling flow and its potential application, this review offers promising insights for advancing DPI technology and optimizing therapeutic outcomes in inhaled therapy. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In older people with a chronic respiratory disease, we explored (i) usual Smartphone application (App) use, (ii) the time taken to download and use an App, and (iii) changes in self-efficacy for downloading an App after a single practice session. Methods: Participants were invited to attend one or two separate assessment sessions (Part A and B). Those who attended Part A had data pertaining to their App usage over the previous week extracted from their Smartphone. Those who attended Part B were asked to download and use a pedometer App and "think out loud" during the task. Before and after the task, participants rated their self-efficacy for downloading an App using a Visual Analogue Scale (0–10). Results: Twenty-seven participants (mean ± SD 74 ± 5 years) completed Part A. Commonly used Apps related to communication (e.g., texting; median [interquartile range] 15 [9–25] min/day) and interest (e.g., news; 14 [4–50] min/day). Fifteen participants completed Part B (mean ± SD 73 ± 7 years). The median time taken to download and use the App was 24 (22–37) min. The "think out loud" data converged into four domains: (i) low self-efficacy for using and learning Apps; (ii) reliance on others for help; (iii) unpleasant emotional responses; and (iv) challenges due to changes associated with longevity. Self-efficacy increased by 4 (95% confidence interval: 3–6). Conclusion: This population used Apps mainly to facilitate social connection. It took participants almost half an hour to download and use an App, but a single practice session improved self-efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction People addicted to illegal drugs were discussed as a risk group for SARS-CoV-2 infections, with increased susceptibility and a severe course of infection. Methods In this study, the frequency of SARS-CoV-2 infections of drug-dependent persons admitted to inpatient detoxification treatment in five psychiatric hospitals was determined by implementing routine polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-testing at admission (9/2020) up to one year. Main substance-related diagnosis, comorbid respiratory disease, housing situation, and current opioid maintenance treatment (OMT) were documented. An age-matched control group of psychiatric inpatients without dependence from illegal drugs was established. Results Data from 1675 patients (male 79.5%; mean age 39.5 years; opioid dependence 81.5% homelessness; 2.4%; chronic respiratory disease 6.3%) were included. Out of 1365 patients dependent on opioids, 50.2% were currently in OMT. Six (3 female; mean age 40.3 years) patients tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by PCR (0.36%), and none showed symptoms of COVID-19. All six were opioid dependent, 5 currently not in OMT. In the control group, 11 out of 1811 inpatients tested positive (0.61%). Discussion The rate of SARS-CoV-2-infections in persons with dependence on illegal drugs was not increased compared to a control group of psychiatric patients. OMT is presumably a protective factor, e. g. in the participating cities, OMT facilities offered an easy access to vaccination programs. In contrast, drug addicts in the USA were severely affected by the pandemic. Differences between countries might partially be explained by social factors such as the higher availability of OMT in Germany and a much lower frequency of homelessness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is suggested to have pathogenic effects in respiratory inflammatory diseases, including asthma. We aimed to analyze the relationship between serum IgA, and clinical indicators and biomarkers of asthma.Methods: This study was a post hoc analysis of the NHOM Asthma Study. In this study, serum IgA was measured using serum samples stored. We determined an association between the serum IgA level and clinical variables and biomarkers using multivariate linear regression and analyzed the differences in clinical indices between IgA high- and IgA low-asthma.Results: In this study, 572 patients with asthma were included in the final analysis. Lower percentage forced expiratory volume in the first second (%FEV1), higher serum eotaxin levels, lower serum ST2 levels, and higher serum MIP-1β levels, were independently and significantly associated with higher serum IgA levels among asthma patients by multivariate linear regression analysis (%FEV1, 95% confidence interval [CI], −8.18– −0.613, p < 0.05; eotaxin, 95% CI, 8.95–46.69, p < 0.001; ST2, 95% CI, −73.71– −7.37, p < 0.05; and MIP-1β, 95% CI, 1.47–18.71, p < 0.05). Furthermore, IgA high-asthma (serum IgA ≥ 238 mg/dL, n = 270) and IgA low-asthma (serum IgA < 238 mg/dL, n = 302) were compared separately. %FEV1 was significantly lower, the percentage of atopy was higher, and serum MIP-1β level was higher in IgA high-asthma.Conclusions: This study suggests that serum IgA may be involved in the worsening of asthma outcomes, as assessed by %FEV1 and enhanced inflammation via elevated serum MIP-1β. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) presents a challenge to farmers all over the globe, not only because it can have significant impacts on welfare and productivity, but also because diagnosis can prove challenging. Several clinical scoring systems have been developed to aid farmers in making consistent early diagnosis, 2 examples being the Wisconsin (WCS) and the California (CALIF) systems. Neither of these systems were developed in or for use in a temperate environment. As environment may lead to changes in BRD presentation, the weightings and cutoffs designed for one environmental presentation of BRD may not be appropriate when used in a temperate climate. Additionally, the interpretation of the scores recorded varies between studies; this may also influence conclusions. Hence, the objective of this work was to investigate the sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of these tests in a temperate climate and investigate the influence of varying the interpretation on the performance of the WCS. In this prospective study, 98 commercial spring-calving dairy farms were recruited (40 randomly, 58 targeted) and visited. Thoracic ultrasound and WCS were performed on 20 randomly sampled calves between 4 and 6 wk of age on each farm. On a subset of 32 farms, the CALIF score was also undertaken. The data were then used in a hierarchical Bayesian latent class model to estimate the Se and Sp of 5 different interpretations of the Wisconsin clinical score and 1 interpretation of the California clinical score. In total, 1,936 calves were examined. The Se of the Wisconsin score varied from 0.336 to 0.577 depending on the interpretation used, and the Sp varied from 0.943 to 0.977. The Se of the California score was 0.563 (95% Bayesian credible interval [BCI]: 0.452, 0.681) and the Sp was 0.919 (95% BCI: 0.899, 0.937). In conclusion, the performances of the clinical scores in a temperate environment were similar to previously published work from more extreme climates; however, the performance varied widely depending on the score interpretation. Authors should justify their use of a particular clinical score interpretation to improve clarity in publications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19 can cause ongoing and persistent symptoms (such as breathlessness and fatigue) that lead to reduced functional capacity. There are parallels in symptoms and functional limitations in adults with post-COVID symptoms and adults with chronic respiratory diseases. Pulmonary rehabilitation is a key treatment for adults with chronic respiratory diseases, with the aims to improve symptom management and increase functional capacity. Given the similarities in presentation and aims, a pulmonary rehabilitation program may be optimal to meet the needs of those with ongoing symptoms after COVID-19. Aerobic and strength training has shown benefit for adults living with long COVID, although there is little evidence on structured education in this population. Breathing pattern disorder is common in adults with long COVID, and considerations on treatment before rehabilitation, or alongside rehabilitation, are necessary. Considerations on postexertional malaise are important in this population, and evidence from the chronic fatigue syndrome literature supports the need for individualization of exercise programs, and considerations for those who have an adverse reaction to activity and/or exercise. This narrative review summarizes the current evidence on pulmonary rehabilitation programs in a long-COVID population. Where the evidence is lacking in long COVID the supporting evidence of these programs in chronic respiratory diseases has highlighted the importance of aerobic and strength training, considerations for fatigue, potential mechanisms for immunology improvement, and management of breathing pattern disorders in these programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic respiratory diseases are becoming a more prominent cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Street sweepers are commonly found in low- and middle-income countries. This job involves outdoor work that exposes workers to various health hazards and air pollution, particularly affecting respiratory health. There is still limited research focusing specifically on street sweepers. The study aims to examine the prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms and the associated factors in street sweepers in Bangkok, Thailand. Materials and Methods: We undertook a cross-sectional survey between February and April 2023. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed, stratifying the sample according to district locations within Bangkok, Thailand. Data were collected through a questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, occupational and environmental factors, and respiratory symptoms using a modified version of the Medical Research Council questionnaire. Data analysis included bivariate analysis and multiple logistic regression. Results: The response rate was 98.0% (n = 341). The prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms among street sweepers in Bangkok, Thailand, with at least one respiratory symptom was reported by 33.7% of the participants, specifically cough (22%), phlegm (20.2%), dyspnea (17.6%), and wheeze (7.0%). The average age of the sample group was 43.2 years, with a majority being female (85.9%). Among the participants, 88.3% were non-smokers, while 37.2% reported exposure to secondhand smoke. All participants reported the use of respiratory protective equipment, with face masks used at 78.9%. 7.3% of the participants lived near sources of pollution, and 12.0% were involved in household pollution activities. An average annual air quality index in the workplace area was categorized as 'good' at 57.8%. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed significant associations of chronic respiratory symptoms with the following factors: exposure to secondhand smoke [odds ratio (OR) = 2.3, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3-4.2] and household activities (OR = 3.0, 95% CI 1.3-6.6). Conclusion: Exposure to secondhand smoke and indoor air pollutants in household environments are significant factors associated with the symptoms. Raising awareness about secondhand smoke hazards in household and environmental settings and promoting self-care practices related to various activities with potential exposure to indoor air pollution is crucial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand Guideline on the provision of home oxygen therapy in adults updates a previous Guideline from 2015. The Guideline is based upon a systematic review and meta‐analysis of literature to September 2022 and the strength of recommendations is based on GRADE methodology. Long‐term oxygen therapy (LTOT) is recommended for its mortality benefit for patients with COPD and other chronic respiratory diseases who have consistent evidence of significant hypoxaemia at rest (PaO2 ≤ 55 mm Hg or PaO2 ≤59 mm Hg in the presence of hypoxaemic sequalae) while in a stable state. Evidence does not support the use of LTOT for patients with COPD who have moderate hypoxaemia or isolated nocturnal hypoxaemia. In the absence of hypoxaemia, there is no evidence that oxygen provides greater palliation of breathlessness than air. Evidence does not support the use of supplemental oxygen therapy during pulmonary rehabilitation in those with COPD and exertional desaturation but normal resting arterial blood gases. Both positive and negative effects of LTOT have been described, including on quality of life. Education about how and when to use oxygen therapy in order to maximize its benefits, including the use of different delivery devices, expectations and limitations of therapy and information about hazards and risks associated with its use are key when embarking upon this treatment. See relatededitorial [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Chest x‐ray (CXR) remains a core component of health monitoring guidelines for workers at risk of exposure to crystalline silica. There has however been a lack of evidence regarding the sensitivity of CXR to detect silicosis in artificial stone benchtop industry workers. Methods: Paired CXR and high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) images were acquired from 110 artificial stone benchtop industry workers. Blinded to the clinical diagnosis, each CXR and HRCT was independently read by two thoracic radiologists from a panel of seven, in accordance with International Labour Office (ILO) methodology for CXR and International Classification of HRCT for Occupational and Environmental Respiratory Diseases. Accuracy of screening positive (ILO major category 1, 2 or 3) and negative (ILO major category 0) CXRs were compared with identification of radiological features of silicosis on HRCT. Results: CXR was positive for silicosis in 27/110 (24.5%) workers and HRCT in 40/110 (36.4%). Of the 83 with a negative CXR (ILO category 0), 15 (18.1%) had silicosis on HRCT. All 11 workers with ILO category 2 or 3 CXRs had silicosis on HRCT. In 99 workers ILO category 0 or 1 CXRs, the sensitivity of screening positive CXR compared to silicosis identified by HRCT was 48% (95%CI 29–68) and specificity 97% (90–100). Conclusion: Compared to HRCT, sensitivity of CXR was low but specificity was high. Reliance on CXR for health monitoring would provide false reassurance for many workers, delay management and underestimate the prevalence of silicosis in the artificial stone benchtop industry. The use of CXR to screen artificial stone benchtop industry workers for silicosis has low sensitivity compared to HRCT chest, especially for early‐stage disease. Reliance on chest x‐ray for screening will fail to identify many workers with artificial stone silicosis and underestimate the prevalence of respiratory disease in this industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using participatory, virologic, and wastewater surveillance systems, we estimated when and to what extent reported data of adult COVID-19 cases underestimated COVID-19 incidence in Germany. We also examined how case underestimation evolved over time. Our findings highlight how community-based surveillance systems can complement official notification systems for respiratory disease dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This prospective cohort study investigated the association between periodontal diseases (PDs) and all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality. Materials and Methods: We utilized adult participants recruited from six National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey cycles (1999–2014) and linked mortality data from the National Death Index up to December 2019. Baseline clinical periodontal examinations were performed by trained and calibrated examiners. All‐cause and cause‐specific mortality was modelled through multivariable Cox proportional hazards and Fine–Gray models to account for competing risks. All models were adjusted for demographic and lifestyle variables, clinical measurements and comorbidities. Results: Overall, 15,030 participants were included, with a median length of follow‐up of 9 years. Risk of all‐cause mortality was 22% greater in people with PD than the control group (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 1.22, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12–1.31). Risks of mortality by cardiovascular diseases (CVD), respiratory disease and diabetes were highest in participants with severe PD (CVD—sub‐distribution HR [SHR]: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.16–1.64; respiratory—SHR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.07–2.45; diabetes—SHR: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.12–2.53). Conclusions: Severe PD is associated with all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality among US adults after multivariable adjustment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interleukin‐41 (IL‐41) is a newly discovered cytokine, named Cometin, Subfatin, meteorin‐like transcription (Metrnl), and so forth. It is widely expressed in animals and can exert its biological roles through autocrine and paracrine forms. It has functions such as anti‐inflammatory, improving body metabolism, regulating immunity, regulating fat metabolism and participates in the process of autoimmune disease or inflammatory injury. It plays an important role in psoriasis, diabetes, Crohn's disease (CD), osteoarthritis, Kawasaki disease (KD), Graves' disease, autoimmune hepatitis, infertility, obesity, sepsis, cardiovascular diseases and respiratory diseases. This paper reviews the biological functions of IL‐41, the relationship between IL‐41 and diseases, the effects of IL‐41 in the cytokine network and the possible signalling pathways. In order to explore the same target or the same drug for the treatment of different diseases from the perspective of homotherapy for heteropathy, cytokine strategies based on IL‐41 have been put forward for the precise treatment of immune diseases and inflammatory diseases. It is worth noting that IL‐41 related preparations for lung protection and smoking cessation are interesting research fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of medicinal herbs is highly developed in Haiti. However, there is a significant lack of knowledge in the literature on medicinal plants and their uses. The objective of this study was to determine the knowledge and practices of Haitian families for the prevention/treatment of COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory diseases, as well as the mode of preparation and administration of the plants. Individuals were interviewed using the TRAMIL questionnaire as the information holder. The data obtained were analyzed by calculating 5 indices (relative frequency of citation, use value, the family use value, informant consensus factor, and fidelity level). The study surveyed 120 Haitians and collected 75 plants from 43 botanical families. The botanical family most used for all these preventions and remedies is the Lamiaceae. The highest ranked species with a relative frequency of citation value > 0.3. Infusion, decoction, and in the form of punch are the methods used for the remedies. The study found that the use of herbal remedies is still prevalent in the study area, and many of the commonly used plants have been scientifically validated. However, some plants, such as Samyda rosea Sims, lack sufficient research and are recommended for further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The respiratory tract acts as a crucial barrier influenced by environmental factors, particularly affecting the homeostasis of its mucous membranes. Environmental conditions, including climate and atmospheric composition, play a significant role in the development and progression of respiratory diseases such as bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis. Various risk factors, including genetic predisposition, viral infections, allergen exposure, and pollutants, along with changes in the microbiome, are key determinants in the manifestation and progression of these diseases. Certain pollutants like ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and particulate matter (PM2.5) contribute to airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness, potentially leading to increased oxidative stress and respiratory distress. This study aims to comparatively analyze the clinical characteristics and processes of free radical oxidation in the tissues of the respiratory tract of children with respiratory diseases living at different altitudes in Kyrgyzstan. A total of 209 children, including 104 with chronic respiratory diseases and 105 healthy controls, were examined. The study included clinical examinations, endoscopic evaluations, and biopsies when necessary. Biological samples such as exhaled air condensate and nasal lavages were collected to measure various biochemical indicators including total lipids, hydroperoxides, diene conjugates, and oxidative index. Preliminary results indicate that children residing at higher altitudes exhibit more pronounced changes in respiratory tissues, likely due to climatic and environmental factors specific to high-altitude regions. These children showed significantly higher levels of free radical oxidation products and altered surface tension in biological samples compared to those living at lower altitudes. Complaints such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, cough, and nasal congestion were also more frequent among children at higher altitudes. The study highlights the need for further research to better understand the impact of altitude on respiratory health and to develop effective strategies for the treatment and prevention of respiratory diseases in children. Future research should focus on the longitudinal tracking of respiratory health, detailed environmental assessments, and the development of targeted public health strategies to address the unique challenges faced by high-altitude populations. Ultimately, this research aims to improve respiratory health outcomes for children living in diverse geographic settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Hypothesis Few microsimulation models have been developed for chronic psychotic disorders, severe and disabling mental disorders associated with poor medical and psychiatric outcomes, and high costs of care. The objective of this work was to develop a microsimulation model for individuals with chronic psychotic disorders and to use the model to examine the impact of a smoking cessation initiative on patient outcomes. Study Design Using health records and survey data from Ontario, Canada, the PSY-SIM model was developed to simulate health and cost outcomes of individuals with chronic psychotic disorders. The model was then used to examine the impact of the Smoking Treatment for Ontario Patients (STOP) program from Ontario on the development of chronic conditions, life expectancy, quality of life, and lifetime health care costs. Study Results Individuals with chronic psychotic disorders had a lifetime risk of 63% for congestive heart failure and roughly 50% for respiratory disease, cancer and diabetes, and a life expectancy of 76 years. The model suggests the STOP program can reduce morbidity and lead to survival and quality of life gains with modest increases in health care costs. At a long-term quit rate of 4.4%, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of the STOP program was $41,936/QALY compared with status quo. Conclusions Smoking cessation initiatives among individuals with chronic psychotic disorders can be cost-effective. These findings will be relevant for decision-makers and clinicians looking to improving health outcomes among this patient population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Aims Methods and results Conclusion Burst steroid therapy, effective in acute respiratory diseases, may benefit patients with acute heart failure (AHF) in whom inflammatory activation is associated with adverse outcomes.CORTAHF assessed whether burst steroid therapy reduces inflammation and results in better quality of life and clinical outcomes in AHF. Patients with AHF, N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide >1500 pg/ml, and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP) >20 mg/L were randomized 1:1 to oral, once daily 40 mg prednisone for 7 days or usual care, without blinding. Patients were followed for 90 days. A total of 101 patients were randomized. At day 7 the primary endpoint, hsCRP decreased in both arms – adjusted geometric mean ratios (GMRs) were 0.30 and 0.40 in the prednisone and usual care arms (ratio of GMRs 0.75, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.56–1.00, p = 0.0498). The 90‐day risk of worsening heart failure (HF), HF readmission or death as reported by the unblinded investigators was significantly lower in the prednisone group (10.4%) than in usual care (30.8%) (hazard ratio 0.31, 95% CI 0.11–0.86, p = 0.016). The EQ‐5D visual analogue scale score as reported by the unblinded patients increased more in the prednisone group on day 7 (least squares mean difference 2.57, 95% CI 0.12–5.01 points, p = 0.040). All effects were statistically significant in the pre‐specified subgroup with centrally‐measured interleukin‐6 >13 pg/ml. Adverse events, particularly hyperglycaemia, occurred more in the prednisone group with no difference in infection rate.In this small open‐label study of patients with AHF, burst steroid therapy was associated with reduced inflammation as measured by hsCRP levels at day 7 (primary endpoint). Secondary endpoints showed improved quality of life at day 7 and reduced 90‐day risk of death or worsening HF. Large prospective studies are needed to evaluate these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: Severe pneumonia is the leading cause of death among young children worldwide, disproportionately impacting children who lack access to advanced diagnostic imaging. Here our objectives were to develop and test the accuracy of an artificial intelligence algorithm for detecting features of pulmonary consolidation on point-of-care lung ultrasounds among hospitalized children. Methods: This was a prospective, multicenter center study conducted at academic Emergency Department and Pediatric inpatient or intensive care units between 2018–2020. Pediatric participants from 18 months to 17 years old with suspicion of lower respiratory tract infection were enrolled. Bedside lung ultrasounds were performed using a Philips handheld Lumify C5-2 transducer and standardized protocol to collect video loops from twelve lung zones, and lung features at both the video and frame levels annotated. Data from both affected and unaffected lung fields were split at the participant level into training, tuning, and holdout sets used to train, tune hyperparameters, and test an algorithm for detection of consolidation features. Data collected from adults with lower respiratory tract disease were added to enrich the training set. Algorithm performance at the video level to detect consolidation on lung ultrasound was determined using reference standard diagnosis of positive or negative pneumonia derived from clinical data. Results: Data from 107 pediatric participants yielded 117 unique exams and contributed 604 positive and 589 negative videos for consolidation that were utilized for the algorithm development process. Overall accuracy for the model for identification and localization of consolidation was 88.5%, with sensitivity 88%, specificity 89%, positive predictive value 89%, and negative predictive value 87%. Conclusions: Our algorithm demonstrated high accuracy for identification of consolidation features on pediatric chest ultrasound in children with pneumonia. Automated diagnostic support on an ultraportable point-of-care device has important implications for global health, particularly in austere settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Respiratory diseases are a growing concern in public health because of their potential to endanger the global community. Cell death contributes critically to the pathophysiology of respiratory diseases. Recent evidence indicates that necroptosis, a unique form of programmed cell death (PCD), plays a vital role in the molecular mechanisms underlying respiratory diseases, distinguishing it from apoptosis and conventional necrosis. Necroptosis is a type of inflammatory cell death governed by receptor-interacting serine/threonine protein kinase 1 (RIPK1), RIPK3, and mixed-lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL), resulting in the release of intracellular contents and inflammatory factors capable of initiating an inflammatory response in adjacent tissues. These necroinflammatory conditions can result in significant organ dysfunction and long-lasting tissue damage within the lungs. Despite evidence linking necroptosis to various respiratory diseases, there are currently no specific alternative treatments that target this mechanism. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the most recent advancements in understanding the significance and mechanisms of necroptosis. Specifically, this review emphasizes the intricate association between necroptosis and respiratory diseases, highlighting the potential use of necroptosis as an innovative therapeutic approach for treating these conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: At different times, public health faces various challenges and the degree of intervention measures varies. The research on the impact and prediction of meteorology factors on influenza is increasing gradually, however, there is currently no evidence on whether its research results are affected by different periods. This study aims to provide limited evidence to reveal this issue. Methods: Daily data on influencing factors and influenza in Xiamen were divided into three parts: overall period (phase AB), non-COVID-19 epidemic period (phase A), and COVID-19 epidemic period (phase B). The association between influencing factors and influenza was analysed using generalized additive models (GAMs). The excess risk (ER) was used to represent the percentage change in influenza as the interquartile interval (IQR) of meteorology factors increases. The 7-day average daily influenza cases were predicted using the combination of bi-directional long short memory (Bi-LSTM) and random forest (RF) through multi-step rolling input of the daily multifactor values of the previous 7-day. Results: In periods A and AB, air temperature below 22 °C was a risk factor for influenza. However, in phase B, temperature showed a U-shaped effect on it. Relative humidity had a more significant cumulative effect on influenza in phase AB than in phase A (peak: accumulate 14d, AB: ER = 281.54, 95% CI = 245.47 ~ 321.37; A: ER = 120.48, 95% CI = 100.37 ~ 142.60). Compared to other age groups, children aged 4–12 were more affected by pressure, precipitation, sunshine, and day light, while those aged ≥ 13 were more affected by the accumulation of humidity over multiple days. The accuracy of predicting influenza was highest in phase A and lowest in phase B. Conclusions: The varying degrees of intervention measures adopted during different phases led to significant differences in the impact of meteorology factors on influenza and in the influenza prediction. In association studies of respiratory infectious diseases, especially influenza, and environmental factors, it is advisable to exclude periods with more external interventions to reduce interference with environmental factors and influenza related research, or to refine the model to accommodate the alterations brought about by intervention measures. In addition, the RF-Bi-LSTM model has good predictive performance for influenza. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The global market for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is growing exponentially, resulting in an increase in mining activities for the metals needed for manufacturing LIBs. Cobalt, lithium, manganese, and nickel are four of the metals most used in the construction of LIBs, and each has known toxicological risks associated with exposure. Mining for these metals poses potential human health risks via occupational and environmental exposures; however, there is a paucity of data surrounding the risks of increasing mining activity. The objective of this review was to characterize these risks. Methods: We conducted a review of the literature via a systematic search of the PubMed database on the health effects of mining for cobalt, lithium, manganese, and nickel. We included articles that (1) reported original research, (2) reported outcomes directly related to human health, (3) assessed exposure to mining for cobalt, lithium, manganese, or nickel, and (4) had an available English translation. We excluded all other articles. Our search identified 183 relevant articles. Results: Toxicological hazards were reported in 110 studies. Exposure to cobalt and nickel mining were most associated with respiratory toxicity, while exposure to manganese mining was most associated with neurologic toxicity. Notably, no articles were identified that assessed lithium toxicity associated with mining exposure. Traumatic hazards were reported in six studies. Three articles reported infectious disease hazards, while six studies reported effects on mental health. Several studies reported increased health risks in children compared to adults. Conclusions: The results of this review suggest that occupational and environmental exposure to mining metals used in LIBs presents significant risks to human health that result in both acute and chronic toxicities. Further research is needed to better characterize these risks, particularly regarding lithium mining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies have consistently reported a decrease in hospital admissions for respiratory diseases during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. However, the impact of the pandemic on idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) admissions remains unknown. Methods: This study used data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service database. IPF was defined based on the International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision (ICD-10) and rare intractable disease (RID) codes. The rate of IPF admissions was calculated by dividing the number of IPF admissions by the prevalence of IPF. The rate of IPF admissions during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2021) was compared with the mean rate of admissions during the prepandemic period (2017–2019) and presented as the rate ratio (RR). A sensitivity analysis was conducted on patients treated with systemic corticosteroids during IPF admission. Results: In patients with IPF defined based on the ICD-10 (analysis 1), the RRs significantly decreased from March in 2020 to December 2021, except for June and September in 2020. Similarly, in patients with IPF defined based on the ICD-10 and RID (analysis 2), the RRs significantly decreased from March 2020 to December 2021, except for June and September 2020. In the sensitivity analysis of analysis 1, the RR significantly decreased in 2020 (0.93; 95%CI: 0.88–0.99; P = 0.029), whereas the RR in 2021 was not significantly different. The RRs in the sensitivity analysis of analysis 2 significantly decreased to 0.85 (0.79–0.92; P < 0.001) in 2020 and 0.82 (0.76–0.88; P < 0.001) in 2021. In the subgroup analysis, the rates of IPF admissions significantly decreased in 2020 and 2021 across both sexes, patients aged ≥ 60 years, and all household income groups. Conclusions: The rate of IPF admissions significantly decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic. This result indicates that preventive measures against COVID-19 may effectively mitigate IPF exacerbation. Therefore, it is assumed that there is a close relationship between respiratory viral infections and IPF exacerbations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advances in stem cell technology offer new possibilities for patients with untreated diseases and disorders. Stem cell-based therapy, which includes multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), has recently become important in regenerative therapies. MSCs are multipotent progenitor cells that possess the ability to undergo in vitro self-renewal and differentiate into various mesenchymal lineages. MSCs have demonstrated promise in several areas, such as tissue regeneration, immunological modulation, anti-inflammatory qualities, and wound healing. Additionally, the development of specific guidelines and quality control methods that ultimately result in the therapeutic application of MSCs has been made easier by recent advancements in the study of MSC biology. This review discusses the latest clinical uses of MSCs obtained from the umbilical cord (UC), bone marrow (BM), or adipose tissue (AT) in treating various human diseases such as pulmonary dysfunctions, neurological disorders, endocrine/metabolic diseases, skin burns, cardiovascular conditions, and reproductive disorders. Additionally, this review offers comprehensive information regarding the clinical application of targeted therapies utilizing MSCs. It also presents and examines the concept of MSC tissue origin and its potential impact on the function of MSCs in downstream applications. The ultimate aim of this research is to facilitate translational research into clinical applications in regenerative therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human enteroviruses are highly prevalent world-wide. Up to more than 100 subtypes of enteroviruses can cause several diseases, including encephalitis, meningitis, myocarditis, hand-foot-mouth disease, conjunctivitis, respiratory diseases, and gastrointestinal diseases, thus posing a great threat to human health. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of enterovirus in children in Hangzhou, China before and after the COVID-19 outbreak. Systematic monitoring of enterovirus infections was performed by collecting samples from the children admitted to the inpatient wards and outpatient departments in the Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, between January 2019 and May 2023. A commercial real-time RT PCR kit was utilized to detect enteroviruses. Among the 34,152 samples collected, 1162 samples, accounting for 3.4% of the samples, were tested positive for enteroviruses. The annual positive rates of the enteroviruses were 5.46%, 1.15%, 4.43%, 1.62%, and 1.96% in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and May 2023, respectively. The positivity rate of the enteroviruses was highest among children aged 3–5 years and 5–7 years. Moreover, the monthly positivity rate of enterovirus infection ranged from 0.32% to 10.38%, with a peak in June and July. Serotypes, especially EV71 and CA16, causing severe symptoms such as HFMD, were decreasing, while the proportion of unidentified serotypes was on the rise. The incidence of enteroviruses in Hangzhou was higher in children aged 1–3 years and 7–18 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Given the global shifts in environmental conditions and dietary habits, understanding the potential impact of dietary factors and body mass index (BMI) on respiratory diseases, including asthma, is paramount. Investigating these relationships can contribute to the formulation of more effective prevention strategies. The Planetary Health Diet Index (PHDI), a dietary scoring system that balances human health with environmental sustainability, underscores the importance of increasing the consumption of plant-based foods while reducing the intake of red meat, sugar, and highly processed foods. The objective of this study was to assess the association between PHDI and the prevalence of asthma and the mediation effect of BMI in a US general population. Methods: This study utilized data from 32,388 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning from 2005 to 2018. Multivariate logistic regression and weighted quantile sum (WQS) regressions were employed to investigate the association between PHDI, individual nutrients, and asthma. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis explored the linear or non-linear relationship between PHDI and asthma. Interaction analyses were conducted on subgroups to validate the findings. Mediation analysis was performed to examine the effect of BMI on the relationship between PHDI and asthma. Results: There was a significant negative association between PHDI and asthma. After adjusting for covariates, for every 10-point increase in PHDI, there was a 4% decrease in the prevalence of asthma (P = 0.025). Moreover, as PHDI increased, there was a trend towards lower asthma prevalence (P for trend < 0.05). WQS analyses showed consistent associations (OR = 0.93, 95%CI: 0.88, 0.98), with Fiber, Vitamin C, and Protein significant factors. The dose-response curve indicated a linear association between PHDI and asthma, with higher PHDI associated with lower asthma prevalence. Additionally, BMI is significantly positively associated with asthma (P < 0.001), and BMI decreases as the PHDI increases (β = -0.64, P < 0.001). Mediation analysis indicates that BMI significantly mediates the relationship between PHDI and asthma, with a mediation proportion of 33.85% (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The results of this study show a strong negative correlation between PHDI and the prevalence of asthma. In addition, BMI mediated this negative relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to elucidate the causal relationship between Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Chronic Respiratory Diseases (CRDs), employing Mendelian Randomization (MR) to overcome limitations inherent in observational studies. Methods: Utilizing a two-sample MR approach, this study analyzed genetic variants as instrumental variables to investigate the causal link between OSA and various CRDs, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, bronchiectasis, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Data were sourced from the FinnGen Consortium (OSA, n = 375,657) and UK Biobank, focusing on genome-wide associations between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and the diseases. Instrumental variables were selected based on strict criteria, and analyses included a random-effects inverse-variance weighted method supplemented by several sensitivity analyses. Results: The study suggests a protective effect of OSA against COPD (OR = 0.819, 95% CI 0.722–0.929, P-value = 0.002), which becomes non-significant after adjusting for BMI, indicating a potential mediating role of BMI in the OSA-COPD nexus. No significant causal links were found between OSA and other CRDs (asthma, IPF, bronchiectasis) or between COPD, asthma, and OSA. Conclusions: Our findings reveal a BMI-mediated protective effect of OSA on COPD, with no causal connections identified between OSA and other CRDs. These results emphasize the complex relationship between OSA, BMI, and COPD, guiding future clinical strategies and research directions, particularly in light of the study's genetic analysis limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mass treatment with antibiotics at arrival has been the mainstay for bovine respiratory disease (BRD) control but there is an increase in antimicrobialresistant bacteria being shed from treated cattle. BRD is a disease complex that results from the interaction of viruses or bacteria and susceptible animals with inappropriate immunity. With bacteria being the only feasibly treatable agent and the emergence of antimicrobial resistance, decreased efficacy of commonly used antibiotics could threaten livestock health. There is a need for new antimicrobial alternatives that could be used to control disease. Naturally occurring antimicrobial peptides (AMP) have been proposed to address this need. Here we tested the effect of bovine myeloid antimicrobial peptide-28 (BMAP-28), a synthetic BMAP-28 analog Syn-1, and bactenecin 5 (Bac-5) on Mannheimia haemolytica (Mh) using a quantitative culture method and the broth microdilution method to determine minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations (MIC and MBC). We also tested the antiviral effect of these AMP against bovine herpes-1 (BHV-1) and bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) using the Reed and Muench method to calculate the viral titers after treatment. We demonstrated that BMAP-28 and Syn-1 can inhibit Mh growth and BMAP-28 can inhibit replication of BHV-1 and BRSV. Moreover, we showed that BMAP28 and Bac-5 can be used together to inhibit Mh growth. When used alone, the MIC of BMAP-28 and Bac-5 was 64 and 128  μg/mL respectively, but when applied together, their MIC ranged from 0.25–16 for BMAP-28 and 8–64  μg/ mL for Bac-5, resulting in a decrease in concentration of up to 256 and 16- fold, respectively. The synergistic interaction between those peptides resulted in concentrations that could be well tolerated by cells. Our results demonstrate that bovine cathelicidins could be used as alternatives to antimicrobials against BRD pathogens. These findings introduce a path to discovering new antimicrobials and determining how these peptides could be tailored to improve cattle health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) is a highly prevalent respiratory disease affecting popular short-faced dog breeds such as Pugs and French bulldogs. BOAS causes significant morbidity, leading to poor exercise tolerance, sleep disorders and a shortened lifespan. Despite its severity, the disease is commonly missed by owners or disregarded by veterinary practitioners. A key clinical sign of BOAS is stertor, a low-frequency snoring sound. In recent years, a functional grading scheme has been introduced to semi-objectively grade BOAS based on the presence of stertor and other abnormal signs. However, correctly grading stertor requires significant experience and adding an objective component would aid accuracy and repeatability. This study proposes a recurrent neural network model to automatically detect and grade stertor in laryngeal electronic stethoscope recordings. The model is developed using a novel dataset of 665 labelled recordings taken from 341 dogs with diverse BOAS clinical signs. Evaluated via nested cross validation, the neural network predicts the presence of clinically significant BOAS with an area under the receiving operating characteristic of 0.85, an operating sensitivity of 71% and a specificity of 86%. The algorithm could enable widespread screening for BOAS to be conducted by both owners and veterinarians, improving treatment and breeding decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research letter published in the Clinical & Experimental Allergy journal discusses a study on the effects of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) on individuals with severe asthma. The study found that PR was associated with improvements in asthma control, a reduction in severe exacerbations, and a decrease in glucocorticoid use. However, the study had limitations and further research is needed to confirm these findings. Overall, the study suggests that PR may be beneficial for individuals with severe asthma, but more research is necessary to determine its role in managing the condition. [Extracted from the article]

AbstractIn recent times, the nasal region has emerged as a distinctive and dynamic environment where a myriad of microbial communities establish residence from infancy, persisting as both commensal and opportunistic pathogens throughout the lifespan. Understanding the coexistence of microorganisms in respiratory mucosal layers, their potential for infections, and the underlying molecular mechanisms shaping these interactions is crucial for developing efficient diagnostic and therapeutic interventions against respiratory and neurodegenerative diseases. Despite significant strides in understanding the olfactory system’s nexus with nasal microbiota, comprehensive correlations with neurological diseases still need to be discovered. The nasal microbiome, a sentinel in immune defense, orchestrates a delicate equilibrium that, when disrupted, can precipitate severe respiratory infections, including Chronic Rhinosinusitis, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), and Asthma, and instigate a cascade effect on central nervous system diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and Multiple sclerosis (MS). This review aims to redress this imbalance by meticulously exploring the anatomical and microbiological nuances of the nasal mucosal surface in health and disease. By delineating the molecular intricacies of these interactions, this review unravels the molecular mechanisms that govern the intricate nexus between nasal microbiota dysbiosis, olfactory dysfunction, and the progression of respiratory and neurological diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]