Highlights from the journal CHEST®, March 2023
The March issue of CHEST journal features 44 articles on topics such as asthma, critical care, and sleep medicine. The journal also includes complementary web resources, including visual abstracts.
Respiration
Articles tagged with Respiration
Olive oil by-product could aid exercise - study
Researchers at Anglia Ruskin University found that consuming a hydroxytyrosol-rich, olive-derived phytocomplex improved respiratory parameters, oxygen consumption, and running economy during aerobic exercise. The study also showed reduced perceived exertion and enhanced acute recovery.
THE LANCET: Contracting a respiratory infection in early childhood associated with a higher risk of dying from respiratory disease as an adult, study finds
A new study published in The Lancet found that contracting a respiratory infection in early childhood is associated with a higher risk of dying from respiratory disease as an adult. Children who had a lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) before the age of two were 93% more likely to die prematurely from respiratory disease, account...
Respiratory disease in early childhood linked to higher risk of death in adulthood
Contracting a lower respiratory tract infection in early childhood is associated with a higher risk of dying from respiratory disease as an adult. Children who had a LRTI by age two were almost twice as likely to die prematurely in adulthood.
Chinese Medical Journal study identifies major risk factors of pulmonary tuberculosis in patients with pneumoconiosis in China
A Chinese Medical Journal study found that smoking, alcohol consumption, and lack of work-related injury insurance are significant risk factors for developing pulmonary tuberculosis in patients with pneumoconiosis. The study also identified rural birth, household exposure to patients with PTB, and hospitalization history as relevant ri...
Improving diagnosis of chronic lung, ear and sinus infections in young children
University of Southampton researchers propose a new method for diagnosing primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) in young children using nasal nitric oxide measurement while they breathe normally. This approach aims to improve early diagnosis and treatment, reducing the need for invasive procedures and enhancing patient outcomes.
SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 27, 2023
Protection against allergic asthma: When innate lymphoid cells educate alveolar macrophages
A study by researchers from the University of Liège shows that group 2 innate lymphoid cells educate alveolar macrophages, reprogramming them to protect against respiratory allergens. This discovery highlights the central role of ILC2s in shaping the alveolar niche and modulating immune responses.
Children’s lung capacity improved in cleaner air
A new study published in the European Respiratory Journal reports that children's lung capacity has improved in areas with decreased air pollution in Stockholm. The researchers found a 20% lower risk of significantly impaired lung function in participants living in areas with better air quality.
SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 23, 2023
This ‘Harry Potter’ light sensor achieves magically high efficiency of 200 per cent
Researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology have developed a photodiode with sensitivity exceeding 200%, using green light and a double-layered cell design. This breakthrough enables the device to detect weak light signals, making it ideal for medical purposes, wearable monitoring, and machine vision applications.
SourceEindhoven University of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2023
CityU scientists engineer a breath-to-charge electrostatic face mask for prolonged air filtration, reducing the environmental burden
Researchers at City University of Hong Kong develop a self-charging electrostatic face mask that can continuously replenish its electrostatic charge through the user's breathing. The mask provides high-efficiency airborne particle removal with 95.8% effectiveness after 60 hours of testing.
SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023
Researchers endorse widespread naloxone over the counter to prevent drug overdose deaths
The study calls for easier access to naloxone, including over-the-counter distribution, to address the US opioid epidemic. With millions lacking access, health providers are urged to include naloxone in treatment programs and counsel patients' families on its use.
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalThe American Journal of Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 15, 2023
Chest CT shows lung abnormalities two years after COVID
A study published in Radiology revealed persistent lung abnormalities in patients two years after COVID-19, including fibrosis and cystic changes. The incidence of lung abnormalities gradually decreased over time, but the proportion of fibrotic interstitial lung abnormalities remained stable.
Preliminary study highlights ongoing challenge of screening for COPD
A nationwide study found that the CAPTURE screening tool identified roughly half of primary care patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) who could benefit from available treatments. However, the tool also flagged a large group of patients with breathing symptoms and abnormalities that didn't rise to the level of COPD.
Screening tool aims to help doctors diagnose more people with COPD
A new screening tool, CAPTURE, has been developed to identify adults with undiagnosed COPD, with promising results in identifying moderate to severe cases. The study found that almost half of participants who had previously undiagnosed COPD were successfully identified by the tool.
Microbes that co-operate contribute more carbon emissions
Research from Imperial College London and University of Exeter reveals that cooperative microbial communities release more carbon dioxide than competitive ones, contributing significantly to climate change. This finding has far-reaching implications for understanding the impact of temperature changes on global carbon cycles.
Inhalable ‘SHIELD’ protects lungs against COVID-19, flu viruses
Researchers have developed an inhalable powder called SHIELD that reduces infection in mouse and non-human primate models by reinforcing the body's mucosal layer. The powder is composed of food-grade materials and biodegrades over a 48-hour period, providing protection for up to 8 hours.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2023
Breathing muscles remain stronger even after weeks of no training: preserved health gains could improve physical endurance and quality of life for people with chronic lung conditions
Researchers found that breathing muscle strength persisted for five weeks after training stopped, suggesting potential benefits for physical endurance and quality of life in individuals with chronic lung conditions. Inspiratory muscle training also reduced the metaboreflex, allowing for improved exercise endurance.
SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalExperimental Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2023
Ideal cardiovascular health can help people live longer, finds Chinese Medical Journal study
A large-scale observational study from China demonstrates a strong link between ideal cardiovascular health and lower mortality rates. Individuals with higher scores on behavioral and medical factors had approximately a 50% lower risk of all-cause, CVD, and respiratory mortality compared to those with lower scores.
Cochrane Review finds that vitamin D does not reduce risk of asthma attacks
An updated Cochrane review found no effect of vitamin D supplements on reducing the risk of asthma attacks or improving control of asthma symptoms in children and adults. The review analyzed data from 20 randomized controlled trials involving over 2,200 people with mild to moderate asthma.
Spanish scientists identify a new therapeutic target in macrophages for the treatment of obesity-related diseases
Macrophages adapt their metabolism according to the organ they reside in, reveals Spanish scientists. This discovery highlights a vulnerability of macrophages that contributes to chronic inflammatory diseases and could be exploited therapeutically for conditions like cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2023
Tuberculosis vaccine does not protect elderly against COVID-19
A large Dutch study found that the BCG vaccine does not protect elderly people with co-morbidities against COVID-19 symptoms. The study analyzed 6,112 participants and showed no difference in disease manifestations or hospitalizations between those who received the vaccine and those who received a placebo.
SourceUniversity Medical Center Utrecht·JournalClinical Microbiology and Infection·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 2, 2023
Combined steroid and statin treatment could reduce ‘accelerated ageing’ in preterm babies, study in rats suggests
Preterm birth increases the risk of cardiovascular problems; combining steroids with statins could eliminate negative effects while retaining respiratory benefits. Researchers found that combined therapy improved lung function and reduced cardiovascular issues in rat pups.
Study unexpectedly finds only 7 health symptoms directly related to ‘long COVID’
Researchers identified 7 key symptoms of long COVID, including heart issues and joint pain, in a study of 52,461 patients. The findings could help healthcare providers diagnose and treat the condition more effectively.
Exertional dyspnea: a misleading presentation of pulmonary embolism
A recent study published in the Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis found that exertional dyspnea can be a misleading presentation of pulmonary embolism, affecting 32% of patients under 75. The Pulmonary Embolism Dyspnea Italian Study (PEDIS) highlighted the importance of evaluating young patients with severe respiratory fatigue for ...
SourceFondazione Arianna Anticoagulazione·JournalJournal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 2023
Health: Higher physical activity levels associated with reduced respiratory infection susceptibility in children
A study of 104 Polish children found that higher daily physical activity levels were associated with reduced symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections. Children who engaged in more sports and took longer walks experienced fewer days with respiratory tract infection symptoms.
Simple nasal spray significantly reduces snoring and breathing difficulties in children
A simple saline nasal spray was found to be as effective as an anti-inflammatory steroid nasal spray at easing sleep disordered breathing in children. The study showed that the nasal spray cleared symptoms while asleep in about 40% of cases and reduced the need for tonsil removals by half.
SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 17, 2023
Gone fishing: highly accurate test for common respiratory viruses uses DNA as ‘bait’
A new test developed by Cambridge researchers uses single strands of DNA as 'bait' to detect multiple respiratory viruses, including influenza, rhinovirus, RSV, and COVID-19, with highly accurate results in under an hour. The test has the potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce the use of antibiotics.
When battling multiple infections, infants and toddlers at higher risk of severe outcomes, study suggests
Research on COVID-19 variants reveals that infants and toddlers with co-infections are significantly more likely to need oxygen therapy and ICU-level care. Co-infection rates were highest during the delta variant, followed by omicron and alpha.
SourceCorewell Health·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Americas·TypeObservational study·DateJan 12, 2023
Study clarifies mystery of crocodilian hemoglobin
Researchers have discovered that ancient crocodilian hemoglobin required 21 interconnected mutations to develop its hyper-efficient oxygen-binding properties. This complexity, not found in other vertebrates, enabled crocodilians to exploit their onboard oxygen stores for extended periods underwater.
Most long covid effects resolve within a year after mild infection
A large study found that most symptoms of long COVID resolve within a year after a mild COVID-19 infection. Vaccinated people were at lower risk of breathing difficulties, the most common effect to develop after mild infection, compared with unvaccinated people.
Jet engine lubrication oils are a major source of ultrafine particles
Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have found that jet engine lubrication oils are a significant source of ultrafine particles. These tiny particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and trigger inflammatory reactions, potentially contributing to cardiovascular diseases.
SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2023
Fluid on the lungs: Relatively little known hazard linked to open water swimming
Swimming-induced pulmonary oedema (SIPE) is a relatively little known hazard associated with open water swimming. Risk factors include older age, long distances, cold water, and female sex. SIPE can occur in fit and healthy individuals, highlighting the importance of awareness and prevention.
Mired in silence
A UC Riverside study found that farmworkers in the Eastern Coachella Valley lack information and means to advocate for better public health due to language barriers, job insecurity, and limited access to healthcare. The study highlights disproportionate respiratory illness affecting Latinx children living near the Salton Sea.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateDec 22, 2022
Less infectious particles from children’s lungs
A study found that children exhale fewer small particles, which are less likely to spread diseases like COVID-19. Larger particles produced by adults and children can transmit infections equally well, highlighting the importance of wearing high-efficiency masks for disease prevention.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization·JournalJournal of Aerosol Science·DateDec 22, 2022
AI model proactively predicts if a COVID-19 test might be positive or not
Researchers developed an accurate predictive model to distinguish between COVID-19 positive and negative test outcomes. The study found that symptom features, such as fever and difficulty breathing, play a significant role in predicting test results, with molecular tests yielding lower positive rates due to their dependence on viral load.
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalSmart Health·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 13, 2022
Pilot study finds computer vision technology effective at determining proper mask wearing in a hospital setting
A pilot study conducted at Brigham and Women's Hospital found that a low-cost computer vision system was feasible and well-received by employees. The system accurately detected mask adherence 100% of the time, with most participants experiencing a positive interaction.
Lying prone reduces need for breathing tube in Covid-19 patients
Lying prone reduces the risk of needing a breathing tube in COVID-19 patients by 24.2% compared to usual care, but evidence for its effect on mortality or other outcomes is inconclusive. The intervention also results in 55 fewer intubations per 1,000 patients.
Are certain patient characteristics linked with long-term health effects of COVID-19?
A recent study identified several characteristics associated with a higher likelihood of post COVID-19 condition diagnosis. These include female sex, previous mental health disorders, and asthma. The study also found that use of outpatient care was substantially elevated among individuals with post COVID-19 condition.
Common workplace fumes and dusts may heighten rheumatoid arthritis risk
Exposure to common workplace agents is associated with a heightened risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, which can be exacerbated by smoking and genetic predisposition. The study found that certain agents, such as quartz dust and gasoline fumes, are strongly linked to an increased risk of ACPA-positive disease.
Household air cleaners improve heart health among individuals with COPD, researchers find
Researchers found that using portable home air purifiers improved markers of cardiovascular health in people with COPD. The study tracked participants' lung and heart health over six months, revealing a 25% increase in heart rate variability among those using active HEPA and carbon filters.
SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 5, 2022
Persistent asthma linked to increased buildup of plaque in arteries leading to the brain
Researchers found that individuals with persistent asthma have higher levels of inflammation and artery plaque, which may increase heart attack or stroke risk. The study also highlights the importance of addressing risk factors for cardiovascular disease in people with persistent asthma.
The nose-brain pathway: exploring the role of trigeminal nerves in delivering intranasally administered antidepressant
Researchers developed a novel intranasal delivery system that utilizes the trigeminal nerve to deliver antidepressant drugs to the brain. The system showed efficacy at delivering the same dose as intracerebroventricular administration, highlighting a potential new approach for treating depression and other neurological disorders.
SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 11, 2022
New study: How breathing shapes our brain
A new study from Aarhus University found that breathing impacts our emotions, attention, and how we process the outside world. Brain rhythms are closely tied to the rhythm of breathing, making us more sensitive to the outside world when breathing in.
Gut parasites may increase onward transmission of respiratory bugs
Co-infection with gut parasites increases shedding of respiratory bugs like Bordetella bacterium, leading to higher probability of onward transmission. This study in rabbits has broad implications for human populations and suggests targeting treatment of helminths could be an effective way to reduce disease outbreaks.
The unintended consequences of using a ventilator
UCR researchers find that modern ventilators overextend certain regions of the lungs, causing stress and damage, unlike natural breathing. They propose a new thick-walled model to better understand pulmonary mechanics and improve ventilation strategies.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 2022
CItyU researchers invent smart mask to track respiratory sounds for respiratory disease identification
A research team developed a smart mask integrating an ultrathin soundwave sensor that detects breathing, coughing, and speaking sounds. The mask uses machine-learning algorithms to identify respiratory diseases and improve public health by enabling prolonged monitoring.
Hearts from donors who were COVID-19 positive may be safe for transplantation
A recent analysis of COVID-19-positive donor heart transplants found no significant differences in transplant outcomes compared to those from non-COVID-19 donors. The study's results suggest that COVID-19-positive hearts may be as safe for transplantation, potentially addressing the shortage of available donor organs.
Study identifies potential new treatment target for sleep apnea
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified TRPM7, a cation channel in carotid bodies and bloodstream, as a promising therapeutic target for sleep apnea. Blocking or eliminating this channel may offer a new treatment option for obesity-related breathing disorders.
Black veterans hospitalized with COVID-19 less likely to receive treatment than whites
A new study found that Black veterans hospitalized with COVID-19 were less likely to receive evidence-based treatments such as steroids and remdesivir compared to their white counterparts. However, the study also found that disparities in treatment did not translate to higher mortality rates or readmission rates among Black patients.
MIT engineers develop sensors for face masks that help gauge fit
The researchers developed a conformable multimodal sensor face mask (cMaSK) with 17 sensors around the edge of the mask that measure capacitance, temperature, humidity, air pressure, and other parameters. The study found that mask fit was significantly worse for women than men due to gender-related differences in face shape and size.
Wastewater alert: research highlights antimicrobial resistance risk
Research by the University of Exeter found high levels of antibiotic ciprofloxacin in UK wastewater, posing a significant risk to human health. The study suggests that antibiotic pollution from human waste can increase resistance to antibiotics, even in countries with well-established sanitation infrastructures.
Anti-anaerobic antibiotics associated with increased risk of mortality in critically ill patients
A new study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that early treatment with anti-anaerobic antibiotics can deplete gut anaerobes and lead to worse clinical outcomes. The research suggests that these 'good bugs' protect against pneumonia, organ failure, and mortality.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateOct 13, 2022
Why the Salton Sea is turning into toxic dust
Research identifies Colorado River flow decline as main cause of Salton Sea's shrinking, leading to increased salt and chemical concentrations. The study highlights the need for a watershed-centric approach to mitigate the environmental risks and health impacts of the Salton Sea's decline.
Estimated global proportions of individuals with persistent fatigue, cognitive, and respiratory symptom clusters after COVID-19
A study modeling 1.2 million individuals found 6.2% experienced at least one Long COVID symptom cluster within three months of acute infection. Risk was higher in females and those requiring hospitalization for initial SARS-CoV-2 infection, especially ICU care.
Assessing disaster preparedness disparities in pediatric households
Research at the 2022 American Academy of Pediatrics National Conference & Exhibition found disparities in pediatric household preparedness for wildfires, particularly among less educated caregivers. Households with children having breathing issues were more likely to be prepared for wildfires.
Vaccination status, mortality among intubated patients with COVID-19–related acute respiratory distress syndrome
A study of 265 patients found full vaccination status was associated with lower mortality among those intubated due to COVID-19-related acute respiratory distress syndrome. The results may inform discussions on prognosis for families.
Exposure to air pollution worsens COVID-19 outcomes, even among the fully vaccinated
Researchers found that air pollutants, particularly fine particles and nitrogen dioxide, increase the risk of COVID-19 hospitalizations up to 30% in vaccinated individuals. Long-term exposure also worsens outcomes, even among those fully vaccinated, highlighting the importance of improving indoor air quality.
SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 28, 2022
The physics of the premature lung: Why mechanical ventilation can harm preterm lungs
A recent study found that mechanical ventilation can cause irreversible tissue damage in premature lungs, leading to impaired lung cell function. The study showed that even low pressure can result in structural changes on the cell surface, disrupting molecule transport and water balance.
SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2022
When macrophage digestion goes wrong
A study reveals that alveolar macrophages, responsible for filtering bacteria and viruses from the lungs, fail to function properly when lacking a crucial transcription factor called C/EBPb. This leads to an accumulation of surfactant in the lungs, causing pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP), a hitherto incurable disease.
SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalScience Immunology·DateSep 16, 2022
Air pollution may spur irregular heart rhythms in healthy teens
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that air pollution may trigger irregular heart rhythms in healthy teenagers, with exposure causing arrhythmias to occur within two hours. The research analyzed data from over 300 adolescents and found a significant impact of fine particulate matter on cardiac ...