Articles tagged with Lungs
A study of over 278,000 births in Finland found an association between steroid treatment and reduced birth weight. Babies exposed to steroids were on average born with lower birthweights, regardless of whether they were premature or full-term.
Researchers discovered 139 new genetic differences affecting lung health and COPD risk, showing both smokers and non-smokers can develop the disease. These findings could lead to new treatments for COPD, impacting global health.
Researchers at University of Cologne decipher mechanism by which intestinal microbiota amplifies inflammatory reactions in lungs. Candida albicans stimulates Th17 cells, leading to cross-reactivity and immune system imbalance.
A study found that suboptimal antibiotic doses may lead to lower lung microbial diversity, while therapeutic doses result in decreased diversity and lower levels after treatment. This could influence patient outcomes in cystic fibrosis, a genetic disease causing recurrent lung infections.
Boston University School of Medicine has been awarded a five-year, $482,400 NIH grant to bolster the development of physician-scientists. The grant will support a summer research program for first-year medical students, providing them with research experience and opportunities to present their work at national conferences.
Researchers at the University of Warwick and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have developed a computer simulator that predicts lung damage from ventilator settings. The study identified strategies to reduce tidal volumes and driving pressures, potentially improving patient outcomes.
The UVA Health System is launching a program that uses telehealth to connect primary care providers in Appalachia with specialists to improve lung disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Residents in the region have higher-than-average rates of lung cancer and COPD, and limited access to subspecialty physicians.
A Vanderbilt University Medical Center study found that using bag-mask ventilation during tracheal intubation improves outcomes and reduces the rate of severely low oxygen levels in half. The procedure, which involves squeezing air from a bag into the mouth for 60 seconds, is now being routinely used at the hospital.
A large European study found that small lung spots in rhabdomyosarcoma patients do not affect survival prospects or require aggressive treatment, unlike larger metastases.
A University of Colorado study shows that low-molecular weight PAHs, commonly found in secondhand smoke and environmental exposures, can cause cancer-promoting changes in lung cells within 30 minutes.
A new study published in ERJ Open Research directly compares new heated tobacco devices with vaping and traditional cigarettes, showing that all three are toxic to human lung cells. The study's findings suggest that these newer electronic nicotine delivery devices may not be a safer substitute for cigarette smoking.
A comprehensive exposome approach by Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) reveals early life exposure to parabens, phthalates, and PFAS associated with reduced lung function in children. The study highlights the importance of preventing exposure to chemical substances through regulation and labelling of consumer products.
Immunology researchers at the Babraham Institute discovered how lung tissue is remodelled to support an immune response to influenza, producing antibodies with cross-protection against multiple strains. The findings may lead to more robust seasonal influenza vaccination and new therapeutic strategies for autoimmune diseases.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine identified a process that may prevent antibody-mediated rejection in lung transplants. They found that giving immunosuppressive drugs can help the lungs survive and induce growth of lymph node-like structures within the grafts, which contain cells that dampen immune responses.
Two common e-cigarette chemical flavorings, diacetyl and 2,3-pentanedione, have been linked to impaired lung function by altering gene expression related to cilia production. This study suggests that even low levels of these chemicals can be hazardous, highlighting the need for stricter safety standards.
A new study finds that people with pre-diabetic blood sugar levels are at a lower risk for developing cardiovascular disease. However, most individuals will go on to develop diabetes unless they take measures to reduce their blood sugar levels.
Researchers developed a blood test that detects severe lung transplant rejection early, even when no signs are present. The test uses DNA sequencing and has shown promising results in improving transplant outcomes.
A new study published in Nature Immunology has identified a new type of immune cell that infiltrates lung tissue and initiates fibrosis in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The researchers were able to prevent fibrosis in mouse models by targeting these cells for destruction, which may lead to new treatments for this terminal illness.
A new study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that childhood body composition plays a crucial role in determining future lung health. Boys and girls with higher muscle mass in childhood have higher lung function, while those with more fat mass have lower lung function.
A study found that NPY enhances pulmonary inflammation and viral replication in severe influenza virus infection, leading to poorer outcomes. Deletion of NPY improved survival rates and reduced disease pathology in infected mice.
Researchers at MIT have developed an inhalable form of messenger RNA that can be delivered directly to the lungs, showing promise for treating various lung diseases. The aerosol-formulated mRNA was found to induce lung cells in mice to produce a target protein, paving the way for potential treatments.
Researchers propose a support vector machine-based method to predict enhancers on multiple cell lines and tissues, achieving better performance than state-of-the-art methods. The findings indicate that predicting enhancers is easier for adult or young tissue samples compared to fetal samples.
A large registry-linkage study found a 13-fold increased risk of lung cancer in single lung transplant recipients' native lungs compared to the general population. Longtime since transplantation and prior smoking are associated with higher lung cancer risk.
Researchers at Medical University of South Carolina identify insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 5 (IGFBP-5) as a potential therapeutic target for lung fibrosis. The protein promotes fibrosis by turning on profibrotic genes and increasing levels of profibrotic factors.
Researchers identify strong genetic risk factor for IPF, linking mucociliary dysfunction to lung scarring. The study provides a breakthrough in understanding the cause of IPF and potentially its treatment.
A medical records study of over 7,000 patients awaiting a lung transplant in the US has confirmed that the current organ allocation system is geographically biased. The study found significant disparities in lung transplant rates between different regions, with some areas receiving nearly four times more transplants than others.
A new study led by UCalgary researcher finds that early caffeine treatment has no long-term negative effects on neurodevelopment, but is associated with better cognitive scores. The therapy also reduces the risk of cerebral palsy and hearing impairment in premature babies.
Researchers found that people who eat a diet rich in red meat have triple the TMAO levels of those who eat a diet rich in either white meat or mostly plant-based proteins. However, discontinuation of red meat eventually lowers these TMAO levels, suggesting a promising new strategy for individualizing diets and preventing heart disease.
A randomized controlled trial found that vitamin C supplementation reduced harm to infants' lungs caused by smoking during pregnancy. Infants whose mothers took 500mg of vitamin C in addition to their prenatal vitamin had significantly better lung function at three months of age, according to the study.
A study published in Nature Communications identifies extracellular DNA degradation as a key mechanism of lung inflammation induced by silica exposure. Treatment with DNase I may prevent silica-induced lung inflammation, suggesting a new therapeutic target for silicosis.
A recent study published in Nature Immunology reveals that lung-resident memory B cells can provide more effective immunity against influenza infections. These cells are able to respond quickly and produce antibodies after a second infection, suggesting they play a crucial role in respiratory virus immunity.
A new study found that uranium in mine dust can dissolve in simulated lung fluids and bloodstream, increasing the risk of disease. The researchers tested dust samples from five sites near uranium mines in New Mexico, discovering that mineral composition affects solubility.
A recent study published in The BMJ reveals that the UK has higher death rates from respiratory illnesses, such as COPD and pneumonia, compared to other developed countries. Death rates for men have decreased over the past 30 years, but those for women have remained relatively static.
Research found that lung disease, including restrictive and obstructive conditions, is associated with a greater risk of developing dementia. The study analyzed data from over 14,000 participants and found that low lung function was linked to an increased risk of dementia.
A global team of investigators has identified protocadherin-1 (PCDH1) as a crucial protein involved in Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a serious respiratory disease. The study, published in Nature, reveals that PCDH1 facilitates lung cell infection and triggers HPS, providing a viable target for blocking the disease.
Researchers found that protocadherin-1 (PCDH1) is essential for hantavirus infection of lung cells. Disrupting this recognition event could lead to a therapeutic against hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). The study, supported by NIH funding, used monoclonal antibodies to block virus entry and showed promising results in hamster models.
Researchers identified protocadherin-1 as a key receptor facilitating hantavirus lung cell entry. Deleting this receptor made lab animals resistant to infection, offering potential therapeutic strategy against hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.
Researchers have identified Toll-like receptor 3 as a new target for treating pulmonary hypertension by increasing its levels through high-dose RNA stimulation, potentially reducing inflammation and cell death in the lungs.
A study of 2,000 children suggests that London's diesel-dominated air pollution is restricting lung capacity, putting them at risk of lifelong breathing disorders. Despite improvements in air quality through the introduction of Low Emission Zones, there was no evidence of a reduction in small lungs or asthma symptoms.
Despite improvements in air quality, the study found little impact on child lung health, with reduced lung function and asthma symptoms observed. Children still live in highly polluted areas, posing lifelong health risks, emphasizing the need for further action to tackle high levels of air pollution.
Researchers have identified an essential role for the protein heme oxygenase-1 in host defense against tuberculosis, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target. Studies using human lung tissue and mouse models showed that HO-1 production is critical in protecting against TB pathophysiology.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine and Duke University demonstrate why coughing often cannot clear mucus from airways in diseases like CF and COPD. They show how to make mucus thinner and less sticky, allowing coughing to become a therapeutic aid for patients.
A new study found that hypertonic saline improved lung function and weight gain in infants with cystic fibrosis. The treatment, which was safe from diagnosis onwards, also showed promise for preventing the progression of lung disease.
The Center for Advancing Point-of-Care Technologies (CAPCaT) will assist inventors developing innovative point-of-care devices and technologies for patients with heart, lung, blood, and sleep disorders. The center aims to reduce in-patient hospital stays and improve quality of life.
A team of scientists has reconstructed the 3D shape of a Neandertal ribcage, revealing an upright individual with a straighter spine and potentially greater lung capacity. The study offers new insights into ancient human anatomy and biomechanics.
Researchers found a correlation between showerhead bacteria and lung infections in areas with high pathogenic mycobacteria presence. Households with chlorinated water had higher mycobacterial abundances, highlighting the public health relevance of showerhead biofilms.
A systematic review of 6,200 patients' data found that up to 12.4 million cases of drug-induced interstitial lung disease (DIILD) occur annually worldwide, accounting for 3-5% of all interstitial lung disease cases. Steroids were the most commonly used medication to treat DIILD, but no studies examined their effects on outcome.
The IASLC affirms the strength of evidence supporting lung cancer screening, reducing mortality by 26-61% in high-risk populations. The organization recommends implementing global lung cancer screening programs, incorporating multidisciplinary teams and best-practice smoking cessation.
A team of scientists developed a fluorescent imaging probe that can rapidly visualize Gram-negative bacteria in human lungs. The probe successfully detected bacterial lung infections in six patients with bronchiectasis and seven ventilated ICU patients without causing major adverse effects.
A new bacterial imaging probe has been shown to be safe for patient use and can detect deadly pneumonia infections in under 60 seconds. This technology uses chemical probes that light up when they attach to specific types of infectious bacteria, allowing for real-time detection and monitoring.
Researchers have uncovered the importance of mucus clearance in maintaining healthy airways. In chronic lung diseases, such as cystic fibrosis and COPD, immobile mucus layers can accumulate bacteria, damaging lungs. The studies suggest using inhalation sprays to keep mucus bundles moving may impede formation of these harmful layers.
A team of CU researchers has identified a genetic connection between rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The study found that patients with RA are at risk of developing progressive pulmonary fibrosis, enabling potential interventions to prevent this condition.
The long-term effects of smoked cannabis on lung health are unclear due to conflicting research findings. The authors emphasize the need for well-designed studies to address pressing gaps in knowledge and resolve lingering myths.
Researchers discovered fossilized lung structures in an early bird ancestor, similar to those of modern birds. The findings suggest that key avian structures were in place by the Early Cretaceous and may have helped modern bird ancestors survive the extinction of dinosaurs.
Researchers have discovered that basophils, immune cells long believed to only cause allergic reactions, are essential for proper lung development and homeostasis. They interact with other cell types to produce growth factors and cytokines, suggesting a potential target for novel immunotherapies in lung diseases.
A new study finds that regular physical activity improves lung function in current smokers, regardless of air pollution levels. The study, led by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health, analyzed data from over 4,500 people and found that physical activity benefits even in areas with high air pollution.
Researchers at UCalgary's Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute and Hotchkiss Brain Institute discovered the nervous system plays a critical role in asthma attacks. By targeting treatment at the carotid bodies, they found that blocking receptors during an asthma attack can eliminate symptoms.
A study presented at CHEST Annual Meeting 2018 found that women were more likely to receive excessively high tidal volumes during the 48 hours prior to death. Women spent more time receiving excessive ventilation and were more likely to receive TV volumes greater than 10mL/kg compared to men.
The InforMing the PAthway of COPD Treatment (IMPACT) study found that triple dual therapies significantly reduced annual rates and moderate-to-severe exacerbations, improved lung function, and enhanced quality of life in patients with COPD. This benefit was observed regardless of baseline reversibility.
The EMPROVE study shows significant improvements in lung function, shortness of breath, and quality-of-life parameters for patients treated with the Spiration Valve System. After 12 months, patients experienced a mean reduction of 974 milliliters in targeted lobe volume.