Next Issue
Volume 89, February
Previous Issue
Volume 88, October
 
 
arm-logo

Journal Browser

Journal Browser
Advances in Respiratory Medicine is published by MDPI from Volume 90 Issue 4 (2022). Previous articles were published by another publisher in Open Access under a CC-BY (or CC-BY-NC-ND) licence, and they are hosted by MDPI on mdpi.com as a courtesy and upon agreement with Via Medica.

Adv. Respir. Med., Volume 88, Issue 6 (December 2020) – 26 articles , Pages 477-650

  • Issues are regarded as officially published after their release is announced to the table of contents alert mailing list.
  • You may sign up for e-mail alerts to receive table of contents of newly released issues.
  • PDF is the official format for papers published in both, html and pdf forms. To view the papers in pdf format, click on the "PDF Full-text" link, and use the free Adobe Reader to open them.
Order results
Result details
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
370 KiB  
Letter
Should Emergency Medical Service Stuff Use Respirators with Filtered Valve during the COVID-19 Pandemic?
by Katarzyna Barycka, Tomasz Dzieciątkowski, Anna Drozd, Łukasz Szarpak, Miłosz J. Jaguszewski and Krzysztof J. Filipiak
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 638-639; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0167 - 30 Dec 2020
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 331
Abstract
Performing medical procedures with the use of personal protective equipment may reduce the efficiency of medical procedures performed [...] Full article
155 KiB  
Letter
When Attacked by a New Enemy, Do Not Forget the Old Ones. A Tale of 2 Diseases: Tuberculosis and COVID-19
by Gopal Chawla, Pratap Upadhya, Rohit Vadala and Arpitha Ananthraju
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 633-635; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0170 - 30 Dec 2020
Viewed by 357
Abstract
COVID-19 (COrona VIrus Diagnosed in 2019) is the most important health crisis of the present generation [...] Full article
163 KiB  
Letter
The “Masks for the Ventilator” in the COVID-19 Era
by Rohit Kumar, Siddharth Raj Yadav, Amit Kumar, Pranav Ish, Nitesh Gupta and Shibdas Chakrabarti
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 630-632; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0124 - 30 Dec 2020
Viewed by 289
Abstract
With the COVID-19 pandemic underway, health-care workers (HCW) are the most valuable yet highly vulnerable resource for any community [...] Full article
683 KiB  
Case Report
Miliary Pulmonary Tuberculosis after the First Dose of Intravesical BCG Instillation in a Patient with High-Grade Bladder Cancer
by Adam Stępień, Michał Brudło, Tomasz Stachura, Paulina Marcinek, Jerzy Soja and Krzysztof Sładek
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 628-629; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0150 - 30 Dec 2020
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 407
Abstract
A 62 years old patient, who was diagnosed with high-grade T1 (T1HG) bladder cancer, after transurethral resection (TURB) (February 2018) and re-TURB (March 2018), with a history of diabetes mellitus type 2, hypertension, dyslipidemia, coronary artery disease and three percutaneous coronary interventions was [...] Read more.
A 62 years old patient, who was diagnosed with high-grade T1 (T1HG) bladder cancer, after transurethral resection (TURB) (February 2018) and re-TURB (March 2018), with a history of diabetes mellitus type 2, hypertension, dyslipidemia, coronary artery disease and three percutaneous coronary interventions was admitted to the Urology Department [...] Full article
543 KiB  
Case Report
Unexplained Vascular Pulmonary Nodule
by Fabio Davoli, Chiara Baldovini, Guido Caroli, Franco Stella, Maria Teresa Minguzzi and Giulio Rossi
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 626-627; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0166 - 30 Dec 2020
Viewed by 351
Abstract
Incidental pulmonary nodules are commonly encountered in computed tomography (CT) imaging [...] Full article
1951 KiB  
Case Report
SARS-CoV-2 Lung Disease in a Patient with Pulmonary Sarcoidosis—Case Report
by Lucyna Magdalena Opoka, Dorota Wyrostkiewicz, Jolanta Winek, Katarzyna Błasińska, Joanna Miłkowska-Dymanowska and Monika Szturmowicz
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 620-625; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0199 - 30 Dec 2020
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 493
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the recently identified cause of the current pandemic. In patients with chronic respiratory lung diseases, SARS-CoV-2 may result in significant morbidity and increased mortality. We present a case of a 69-year-old male with stage II [...] Read more.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the recently identified cause of the current pandemic. In patients with chronic respiratory lung diseases, SARS-CoV-2 may result in significant morbidity and increased mortality. We present a case of a 69-year-old male with stage II pulmonary sarcoidosis who had been under observation for 30 months without immunosuppressive treatment. He then developed severe SARS-CoV-2 disease with typical radiological and laboratory findings. Therapy with oxygen, antibiotics, low-molecular-weight heparin in a prophylactic dose, and dexamethasone resulted in marked clinical improvement. We will discuss the rationale for corticosteroid use in both SARS-CoV-2 disease and in SARS-CoV-2 disease that is complicating comorbid sarcoidosis. Full article
350 KiB  
Article
Human Factors and Usability of an Incentive Spirometer Patient Reminder (SpiroTimer™)
by Joshua Pangborn, Layla Kazemi and Adam E. M. Eltorai
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 574-579; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0189 - 30 Dec 2020
Viewed by 750
Abstract
Introduction: To address the problem of incentive spirometry (IS) noncompliance, a use-tracking IS reminder device (SpiroTimer™) was developed. In a recent randomized clinical trial, the SpiroTimer™ improved IS use compliance, length of stay, and mortality. For successful, safe, and effective implementation of a [...] Read more.
Introduction: To address the problem of incentive spirometry (IS) noncompliance, a use-tracking IS reminder device (SpiroTimer™) was developed. In a recent randomized clinical trial, the SpiroTimer™ improved IS use compliance, length of stay, and mortality. For successful, safe, and effective implementation of a new medical device, human factors and usability must be evaluated. This study aims to evaluate the SpiroTimer™’s human factors as they pertain to intended users, use environments, and uses. Material and methods: Immediately following the completion of the randomized clinical trial of the SpiroTimer™, before the providers were informed of the results of the study, a human factors and usability survey was distributed in-person to all nurses involved in the trial. Variations in nurse user perspectives were evaluated. Results: A total of 52 nurses (100% response rate) completed the survey. In general, most nurses felt IS use compliance is poor (65%; 34/52, p = 0.0265) and should be improved (94%; 49/52, p < 0.001). Nurses agreed the SpiroTimer™ ameliorated patient IS use compliance (82%; 41/50, p < 0.001), IS effectiveness (74 %; 37/50, p < 0.001), and patient engagement in their own care (88%; 44/ 50, p < 0.001). Nurses reported the SpiroTimer™ helped remind them to work with their patients on IS (70%; 35/50, p = 0.0047) while reducing the number of times they had to remind their patients to use their IS (70%; 35/50, p = 0.0047). They felt that they would use the SpiroTimer™ with all their patients (82%; 41/50, p < 0.001) and that they would recommend the SpiroTimer™ to a colleague (74%; 37/50, p < 0.001). Ultimately, most nurses believed the SpiroTimer™ should become part of routine patient care (78%; 39/50, p < 0.001). Discussion: For a new medical technology to a medical device to be effectively implemented, human factors and usability must be demonstrated. Nurses believe the clinically effective SpiroTimer™ helps both patients and nurses and should become part of routine care. Full article
302 KiB  
Article
High Incidence of Masked Hypertension in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Despite Normal Automated Office Blood Pressure Measurement Results
by Milan Sova, Samuel Genzor, Marketa Sovova, Eliska Sovova, Katarina Moravcova, Shayan Nadjarpour and Jana Zapletalova
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 567-573; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0198 - 30 Dec 2020
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 939
Abstract
Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a well-known risk factor for masked hypertension (MH) and masked uncontrolled hypertension (MUCH). Automated ambulatory office blood pressure measurement (AOBP) might better correlate with the results of ambulatory blood pressure measurements (ABPM) compared to routine office blood [...] Read more.
Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a well-known risk factor for masked hypertension (MH) and masked uncontrolled hypertension (MUCH). Automated ambulatory office blood pressure measurement (AOBP) might better correlate with the results of ambulatory blood pressure measurements (ABPM) compared to routine office blood pressure measurement (OBPM). The aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic rate of MH/MUCH when using OBPM and AOBP in combination with ABPM. Material and methods: 65 OSA patients, of which 58 were males, (AHI > 5, mean 44.4; range 5–103) of average age 48.8 ± 10.7 years were involved in this study. Following MH/MUCH criteria were used; Criteria I: OBPM < 140/90 mm Hg and daytime ABPM > 135/85 mm Hg; Criteria II: AOBP < 140/90 mm Hg and daytime ABPM > 135/85 mm Hg; Criteria III: AOBP < 135/85 mm Hg and daytime ABPM > 135/85 mm Hg. Results: MH/MUCH criteria I was met in 16 patients (24.6%) with criteria II being met in 37 patients (56.9%), and criteria III in 33 (51.0%), p < 0.0001. Both systolic and diastolic OBPM were significantly higher than AOBP; Systolic (mm Hg): 135.3 ± 12.3 vs. 122.1 ± 10.1 (p < 0.0001); Diastolic (mm Hg): 87.4 ± 8.9 vs. 77.1 ± 9.3 (p < 0.0001). AOBP was significantly lower than daytime ABPM; Systolic (mm Hg): 122.1 ± 10.1 vs. 138.9 ± 10.5 (p < 0.0001); Diastolic (mm Hg): 77.1 ± 9.3 vs. 81.6 ± 8.1 (p < 0.0001). Non-dipping phenomenon was present in 38 patients (58.4%). Nocturnal hypertension was present in 55 patients (84.6%). Conclusions: In patients with OSA there is a much higher prevalence of MH/MUCH despite normal AOBP, therefore it is necessary to perform a 24-hour ABPM even if OBPM and AOBP are normal. Full article
493 KiB  
Article
Study of Inflammatory Biomarkers in COPD and Asthma Exacerbations
by Alice G. Vassiliou, Vlassios Vitsas, Matina Kardara, Chrysi Keskinidou, Pinelopi Michalopoulou, Nikoletta Rovina, Ioanna Dimopoulou, Stylianos E. Orfanos, Georgios Tsoukalas, Antonia Koutsoukou and Anastasia Kotanidou
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 558-566; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0188 - 30 Dec 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 606
Abstract
Introduction: Exacerbations are critical events in the course of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These events are potentially life-threatening, and the studies have shown that they have tremendous implications on long-term disease control and the overall prognosis of the patients. The [...] Read more.
Introduction: Exacerbations are critical events in the course of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These events are potentially life-threatening, and the studies have shown that they have tremendous implications on long-term disease control and the overall prognosis of the patients. The aim of this study was to examine adipokines, cytokines and C-reactive protein (CRP) as potential biomarkers in asthma and COPD. Material and methods: Prospective cohort study of COPD and asthma patients treated for acute exacerbations. Thirty-nine COPD patients and 15 asthmatic patients were included in the study. Leptin, adiponectin, resistin, interleukin (Il)-6, 8, 18, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and CRP were measured at three time points: on admission, at resolution and at the stable phase. Pre- and post-bronchodilation spirometry was additionally performed at resolution and at the stable phase. Results: In COPD patients, leptin, leptin/adiponectin (L/A) ratio and resistin were elevated on admission compared to the stable phase. In asthmatic patients, leptin levels were raised on admission compared to the stable phase, and adiponectin was elevated at resolution compared to admission. In both diseases, CRP was significantly increased on admission compared to both resolution and stable disease. Finally, TNF-α could distinguish between asthma and COPD stable phase. Conclusions: Leptin and CRP levels may be useful biomarkers in monitoring COPD and asthma response to treatment during an exacerbation episode. Hypoadiponectinemia was detected in asthma and COPD during all stages of the diseases. TNF-α could distinguish between asthma and COPD stable phase. Full article
1218 KiB  
Article
Role of Ultrasonography in Assessment of Anatomic Upper Airway Changes in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
by Sabah Ahmed Hussein, Khaled Mahmoud Kamel, Safy Zahid Kaddah, Emad Efat Abd El-Hamid and Marwa Moawad Shaban
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 548-557; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0187 - 30 Dec 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 586
Abstract
Instroduction: Obstructive sleep apnea is a common disorder, characterized by recurrent narrowing and closure of the upper airway accompanied by intermittent oxyhemoglobin desaturation and sympathetic activation. Ultrasound imaging of the airways has advantages of being safe, quick, repeatable, portable and widely available. Airway [...] Read more.
Instroduction: Obstructive sleep apnea is a common disorder, characterized by recurrent narrowing and closure of the upper airway accompanied by intermittent oxyhemoglobin desaturation and sympathetic activation. Ultrasound imaging of the airways has advantages of being safe, quick, repeatable, portable and widely available. Airway ultrasound can visualize and assess the mouth and tongue, oropharynx, hypopharynx, epiglottis, larynx, vocal cords, cricothyroid membrane, cricoid cartilage, trachea, and cervical esophagus. Material and methods: This study assessed the role of ultrasonography in detecting the level and degree of obstruction of airway passages in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and its relation to OSA severity. It included thirty-three patients diagnosed as OSA, and ten healthy subjects as a control group. All participants were ≥ 18 years and were subjected to full medical history, Epworth sleepiness score (ESS), thorough clinical examination, complete overnight polysomnography and neck ultrasonography. Results: Ultrasonography findings showed a statistically significant increase in lateral parapharyngeal wall thickness (LPWT) (P < 0.001) and a significant increase in distance between lingual arteries (DLA) (P < 0.01) among OSA patients. Moreover, there was a significant statistical decrease in the retropalatal pharynx transverse diameter (RPD) (P < 0.05) in the OSA group compared to those without OSA. LPWT and DLA are parameters that can be used to predict the severity of OSA. Combination of LPWT and RPD can achieve a 100% sensitivity and specificity. Conclusions: Ultrasound is more objective and convenient than the questionnaire because it doesn’t require overnight time consumption. It is also more relevant than pulse oximetry for examining pharyngeal airspace. Also, this study demonstrated that submental ultrasonography is sufficiently sensitive for differentiating OSA severity. Full article
431 KiB  
Article
Incidence and Predictors of Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension Following First Episode of Acute Pulmonary Embolism
by Sahar Asl Fallah, Saeed Ghodsi, Hamidreza Soleimani, Mehrnaz Mohebi, Ali Hossein Sabet, Hamid Ariannejad, Shahpour Shirani, Sakineh Jahanian and Yaser Jenab
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 539-547; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0200 - 30 Dec 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 633
Abstract
Introduction: Late obstructive pulmonary artery remodeling presented as CTEPH portends adverse sequelae and therapeutic challenges. Although progressive dyspnea on exertion beyond three-month period of treatment with anticoagulants is a diagnostic cornerstone, uncertainty still surrounds early identification and risk factors. Material and methods: We [...] Read more.
Introduction: Late obstructive pulmonary artery remodeling presented as CTEPH portends adverse sequelae and therapeutic challenges. Although progressive dyspnea on exertion beyond three-month period of treatment with anticoagulants is a diagnostic cornerstone, uncertainty still surrounds early identification and risk factors. Material and methods: We have conducted a prospective study among survivors of acute pulmonary embolism (PE) who were treated by anticoagulants for at least 3 months. Patients with preexisting pulmonary hypertension (PH), severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and low ejection fraction (EF) in baseline echocardiography (EF < 30%) were excluded. Complete follow-up for 290 subjects were performed. According to a predetermined stepwise diagnostic protocol, patients with exertional Dyspnea and PH probable features in echocardiography underwent lung perfusion scan. Results: Cumulative two-year incidence of CTEPH was 8.6% (n = 25). There was no patient with normal baseline right ventricular (RV) function in CTEPH group. In the same way, none of these patients had only segmental involvement in baseline CT angiography (CTA) in CTEPH group. Greater proportion of CTEPH group received fibrinolytic therapy, however the difference was not significant (2.6% vs. 8 %, P = 0.16). Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated significant association of RV diameter, and PAP in baseline echocardiography as well as RV strain in CTA with development of CTEPH. Corresponding odds ratios were 1.147 (1.063–1.584) P < 0.0001) , 1.062 (1.019–1.106, P = 0.004), and 2.537 (1.041–6.674), P = 0.027), respectively. Conclusions: We found that incidence of CTEPH was relatively high in the present investigation. RV diameter, baseline PAP and RV dysfunction were independent predictors of CTEPH. Full article
416 KiB  
Article
Bronchodilatory Effects of B-Type Natriuretic Peptide in Acute Asthma Attacks: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
by Hassan Motamed, Arash Forouzan, Habib Heybar, Mohammad Javad Khorasani and Saeed Hesam
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 531-538; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0178 - 30 Dec 2020
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 440
Abstract
Introduction: B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) regulates different physiological processes such as blood pressure, cardiac growth, and neural and skeletal development. Thus, the aim of this study w as to evaluate the effect of BNP in the treatment of acute asthma attacks. Material and [...] Read more.
Introduction: B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) regulates different physiological processes such as blood pressure, cardiac growth, and neural and skeletal development. Thus, the aim of this study w as to evaluate the effect of BNP in the treatment of acute asthma attacks. Material and methods: In this randomized clinical trial, patients with acute asthma attacks were enrolled. The patients were divided randomly into two groups. Patients in the interventional group received BNP via intravenous infusion. Two µg/kg of BNP was injected as a bolus in 60 seconds. Then, infusion of BNP immediately began and was given in 0.01, 0.02, and 0.03 µg/kg/min doses every 30 minutes for the first 1.5 hours. The patients in the control group received nebulized salbutamol. Afterwards, peak flow meter findings, hemodynamic parameters, and estimation of the clinical severity of asthma in both groups were checked every 30 minutes. Results: In total, 40 patients were included in this study. The values of PEFR in the 60th and 90th minutes in the control group were lower than those in the interventional group. In the 60th minute, the mean of PEFR was 377.3 in the BNP group but 335.95 in the control group (P = 0.049). Moreover, this difference remained significant in the 90th minute (P = 0.021). However, forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) did not differ between the groups at any time (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Although a large experimental study is needed to verify our hypothesis, it seems that BNP might be a therapeutic option in asthma exacerbations, particularly in those with b2 agonist receptor polymorphism. Full article
292 KiB  
Article
Knowledge, Anxiety and the Use of Hydroxychloroquine Prophylaxis among Health Care Students and Professionals Regarding COVID-19 Pandemic
by Vinita Jindal, Saurabh Mittal, Tanvir Kaur, Avtar Singh Bansal, Prabhjot Kaur, Gurmeet Kaur, Hem C. Sati and Avneet Garg
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 520-530; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0163 - 30 Dec 2020
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 506
Abstract
Introduction: Data regarding knowledge and attitude about COVID-19, the prevalence of acceptance of hydroxychloroquine prophylaxis and anxiety amidst COVID-19 pandemic among health care students/professionals in India is scarce. Material and methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted during May 2020, using an online survey [...] Read more.
Introduction: Data regarding knowledge and attitude about COVID-19, the prevalence of acceptance of hydroxychloroquine prophylaxis and anxiety amidst COVID-19 pandemic among health care students/professionals in India is scarce. Material and methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted during May 2020, using an online survey via Google forms. A self-administered validated structured questionnaire was applied, which comprised 28 questions among health care students/professionals at a tertiary care centrein North India. Results:A total of 956 respondents were included (10.2% nurses, 45.2% medical students, 24.3% paramedical students, 11.7% resident doctors and 8.6% consultant doctors). Overall knowledge score was 9.3/15; the highest for preventive practices (4/5), followed by clinical knowledge (2.7/5) and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) (2.6/5). The overall score was the highest in consultant doctors (10.8) while the lowest in nurses (8.5) and paramedical students (8.4) (p < 0.001). Less than half of the respondents had knowledge about the correct sequence of doffing PPE and the use of N95 mask. About 21.8% of the participants experienced moderate to severe anxiety; higher among nurses (38%), followed by paramedical students (29.3%); and anxiety was higher when knowledge score was low (27.6% vs. 14.7%); both factors were independent predictors on multivariate analysis (p < 0.001). Only 18.1% of the respondents applied HCQ prophylaxis — the highest proportion constituted consultants (42.7%), and the least — paramedical students (5.2%); (p < 0.001) and HCQ use was more frequently used if they had a family member of extreme age group at home (23.3% vs. 12.2%; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The knowledge about correct PPE usage is low among all groups of HCWs and students, and there is a high prevalence of anxiety due to COVID-19. The lower COVID-19 knowledge scores were significantly associated with a higher likelihood of anxiety and inadequate use of HCQ prophylaxis. The appliance of HCQ prophylaxis had no significant association with anxiety levels of the respondents. Full article
280 KiB  
Article
Clinical Outcome, Viral Response and Safety Profile of Chloroquine in COVID-19 Patients—Initial Experience
by Ram Shahul Niwas, Aneesa Shahul S, M. K. Garg, Vijaya Lakshmi Nag, Pradeep Kumar Bhatia, Naveen Dutt, Nishant Chauhan, Jaykaran Charan, Shahir Asfahan, Praveen Sharma, Pankaj Bhardwaj, Mithu Banerjee, Pawan Garg, Binit Sureka, Gopal Krishna Bohra, Maya Gopalakrishnan and Sanjeev Misra
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 515-519; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0139 - 30 Dec 2020
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 621
Abstract
Introduction: Chloroquine and its analogues are currently being investigated for the treatment and post exposure prophylaxis of COVID-19 due to its antiviral activity and immunomodulatory activity. Material and methods: Confirmed symptomatic cases of COVID-19 were included in the study. Patients were supposed to [...] Read more.
Introduction: Chloroquine and its analogues are currently being investigated for the treatment and post exposure prophylaxis of COVID-19 due to its antiviral activity and immunomodulatory activity. Material and methods: Confirmed symptomatic cases of COVID-19 were included in the study. Patients were supposed to receive chloroquine (CQ) 500 mg twice daily for 7 days. Due to a change in institutional protocol, initial patients received chloroquine and subsequent patients who did not receive chloroquine served as negative controls. Clinical effectiveness was determined in terms of timing of symptom resolution and conversion rate of reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) on day 14 and day 15 of admission. Results: Twelve COVID-19 patients formed the treatment arm and 17 patients were included in the control arm. The duration of symptoms among the CQ treated group (6.3 ± 2.7 days) was significantly (p-value = 0.009) lower than that of the control group (8.9 ± 2.2 days). There was no significant difference in the rate of RT-PCR negativity in both groups. 2 patients out of 12 developed diarrhea in the CQ therapy arm. Conclusion: The duration of symptoms among the treated group (with chloroquine) was significantly lower than that of the control group. RT-PCR conversion was not significantly different between the 2 groups. Full article
288 KiB  
Article
Effects on Vital Signs after Twenty Minutes of Vaping Compared to People Exposed to Second-Hand Vapor
by Molly L. McClelland, Channing S. Sesoko, Douglas A. MacDonald and Louis M. Davis
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 504-514; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0148 - 30 Dec 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 522
Abstract
Introduction: Very little is known about the immediate physiological implications of vaping or inhaling second-hand vapor. This study used a quantitative approach to understand the short-term physiological implications of vape use and exposure to sec-ond-hand vapor for people who do not vape. Material [...] Read more.
Introduction: Very little is known about the immediate physiological implications of vaping or inhaling second-hand vapor. This study used a quantitative approach to understand the short-term physiological implications of vape use and exposure to sec-ond-hand vapor for people who do not vape. Material and methods: One hundred and forty-eight people participated in the study, 75 self-identified as non-vapers and 73 self-identified as people who vape. All participants were over the age of 18. Participants used or were exposed to non-flavored e-juice without nicotine in Sorin® vape devices. Heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, blood oxygenation, blood glucose and pulmonary function tests were assessed. Physiological parameters were assessed prior to vape use or exposure to vapor and again after 20 minutes of vaping. Results: Findings indicated there were no significant changes in most health parameters except blood pressure which was reduced in both groups. Heart rate was also significantly reduced for vaping participants. Conclusion: Vaping without flavorings or nicotine do not appear to have an immediate negative health impact on vital signs. The physiological effects of long-term exposure and/or vape use requires additional investigation. Information was established regarding the physiological effects of non-flavored, non-nicotine vaping so future studies can compare the effects of vaping with assorted flavors and nicotine concentrations to the effects of vaping only the base ingredients (vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol). New knowledge was gleaned relating to exposure to vapor, a phenomenon not previously examined but common espe-cially among non-vaping people who attend social events where people are vaping. Full article
402 KiB  
Article
Uncontrolled Asthma in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Degena Bahrey Tadesse, Melaku Negash, Ebud Ayele, Abrha Hailay, Kbrom Gemechu Kiros, Teklehaimanot Gereziher Haile, Mebrahtu Abay and Gebre Teklemariam Demoz
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 495-503; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0162 - 30 Dec 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 774
Abstract
Introduction: Despite significant improvement in the diagnosis and management of this disorder, asthma in the majority of Ethiopians remains poorly controlled. Although the prevalence of uncontrolled asthma is a public health problem in Ethiopia, its reported prevalence varies from study to study. Hence, [...] Read more.
Introduction: Despite significant improvement in the diagnosis and management of this disorder, asthma in the majority of Ethiopians remains poorly controlled. Although the prevalence of uncontrolled asthma is a public health problem in Ethiopia, its reported prevalence varies from study to study. Hence, this review aims to determine the true prevalence of uncontrolled asthma among asthmatic patients in Ethiopia. Material and methods: Different database searching engines were used including PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Africa journal online, World Health Organization (WHO) afro library, and Cochrane review. They were systematically searched for published studies on uncontrolled asthma in Ethiopia from 2014 to 2019. Primary search terms were “asthma”, “uncontrolled asthma”, “uncontrolled wheezing”, and “Ethiopia”. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) Guidelines was followed. Publication bias was examined by the funnel plot. The random-effect model was fitted to estimate the pooled prevalence of uncontrolled asthma among asthmatic patients. All statistical analysis was done using R version 3.5.3 and the RStudio version 1.2.5033 software for Windows. Results: The overall pooled prevalence of uncontrolled asthma was found to be 71.67% [95% CI (0.6772; 0.7562)]. Potential associated factors were: unscheduled visits, frequency of short-acting beta2-agonist (SABA) use, type of treatment and perceived rate of asthma control, low monthly income, age group, presence of comorbidity, moderate persistent asthma, severe persistent asthma and use of SABA alone as anti-asthmatic medication, use of biomass fuel for cooking, longer duration of asthma (> 30 years), incorrect inhalation technique, and asthma exacerbation in the last 12 months. Self-perceived poor asthma control was associated with any activity limitation due to asthma, inconsistent inhaled corticosteroid use, and lack of health education on metered-dose inhaler technique [AOR =4.96; 95% CI (1.08–22.89)]. Conclusions: Nearly two-thirds of patients were determined to have uncontrolled asthma. Thus, this evidence suggests that attention should be given to asthma patients and health care providers. Full article
1960 KiB  
Article
Study of Genetic Variants in Chromosome 5p15.33 Region in Non-Smoker Lung Cancer Patients
by Iman Mandour, Sabah Ahmed Mohamed Hussein, Rania Essam and Menna Ahmad El-Hossainy
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 485-494; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0161 - 30 Dec 2020
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 579
Abstract
Introduction: Genome-wide association studies have identified that genetic polymorphisms in the telomerase reverse transcrip-tase (TERT) and cleft lip and palate transmembrane 1-like (CLPTM1L) genes may play important roles in the development of lung cancer in never smokers. Material and methods: This study was [...] Read more.
Introduction: Genome-wide association studies have identified that genetic polymorphisms in the telomerase reverse transcrip-tase (TERT) and cleft lip and palate transmembrane 1-like (CLPTM1L) genes may play important roles in the development of lung cancer in never smokers. Material and methods: This study was aiming to evaluate the associations between the risk of lung cancer in never smokers and single nucleotide polymorphisms in these genes by Real-Time Taqman assay, in forty lung cancer patients and forty apparently healthy age-matched controls selected from the chest department, Kasr Al-Ainy hospital from June 2018 to January 2019. Results: Adenocarcinoma was the most common histopathological subtype of lung cancer in the study patients. Also, the prevalence of females having adenocarcinoma was more common than males. The heterozygous form of the CLPTM1L occurred more frequently in the subjects aged above 46 years (P = 0.019). There was a significant association between (rs 2730100) (c. 1574-3777C>A) TERT and CLPTM1L (rs 451360) (c.1532+ 1051C>A) genotypes and the incidence of lung cancer in never smokers, especially adenocarcinoma, a subtype of non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). Conclusions: Polymorphism in the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) and cleft lip and palate transmembrane 1 like (CLPT-M1L) genes may play an important role in the development of NSCLC, especially adenocarcinoma subtype. The two genes are located in the chromosome 5p15.33. Full article
287 KiB  
Review
Nintedanib—Efficacy, Safety and Practical Aspects of Treatment for Patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
by Magdalena Martusewicz-Boros and Katarzyna Górska
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 599-607; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0190 - 22 Dec 2020
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 597
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a rare disease with progressive course and a very unfavourable prognosis. Antifibrotic drugs are a chance to reduce the rate of disease progression and extend the life of IPF patients. One of these drugs is nintedanib, an oral [...] Read more.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a rare disease with progressive course and a very unfavourable prognosis. Antifibrotic drugs are a chance to reduce the rate of disease progression and extend the life of IPF patients. One of these drugs is nintedanib, an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor. In the following article, the reader will find a summary of current knowledge on the efficacy and safety of nintedanib treatment of IPF patients. This study uses data from pivotal studies and experience from everyday clinical practice indicating a wide range of possible applications of the drug in IPF patients. Full article
308 KiB  
Guidelines
Spirometry during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic. Guideliness and Practical Advice from the Expert Panel of Respiratory Physiopathology Assembly of Polish Respiratory Society
by Monika Franczuk, Tadeusz Przybyłowski, Małgorzata Czajkowska-Malinowska, Jakub Radliński, Grażyna Bochenek, Stefan Wesołowski and Paweł Śliwiński
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 640-650; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0186 - 16 Dec 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 517
Abstract
This guidance provides advice to healthcare workers on the use of spirometry during the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak [...] Full article
2864 KiB  
Case Report
Asymptomatic Patient with “Lumpy and Bumpy” Airways. A Case of Pulmonary MALToma
by Mehul Agarwal, Manohar Lal Gupta, Kunal Deokar and Neha Bharti
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 615-619; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0165 - 20 Nov 2020
Viewed by 343
Abstract
Primary pulmonary lymphoma is a rare disease. The most frequent primary pulmonary lymphoma (PPL) is extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma of MALT. About half of the patients are asymptomatic at diagnosis. We report a case of a 62-year-old male referred to us for [...] Read more.
Primary pulmonary lymphoma is a rare disease. The most frequent primary pulmonary lymphoma (PPL) is extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma of MALT. About half of the patients are asymptomatic at diagnosis. We report a case of a 62-year-old male referred to us for preoperative assessment of surgery for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). He had no respiratory complaints but on evaluation was detected to have Pulmonary MALToma. Our case highlights the importance of tissue diagnosis. Full article
274 KiB  
Review
The Coincidence of Diabetes Mellitus and Asthma, Their Probable Causal Relationships and Therapeutic Opportunities
by Marcin Kosmalski, Monika Różycka-Kosmalska, Andrzej Witusik and Tadeusz Pietras
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 590-598; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0168 - 20 Nov 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 769
Abstract
Both the epidemiological data and the everyday medical practice demonstrate the coincidence of various types of diabetes mellitus (DM) in patients with asthma. Specific correlations between the risk of DM in pregnancy, asthma and the consequences of these diseases to the mother and [...] Read more.
Both the epidemiological data and the everyday medical practice demonstrate the coincidence of various types of diabetes mellitus (DM) in patients with asthma. Specific correlations between the risk of DM in pregnancy, asthma and the consequences of these diseases to the mother and her baby are also explored. The discussion concerning, on the one hand, the impact of asthma-related inflammatory condition on the metabolism of carbohydrates, and, on the other, the presence of chronic hyperglycemia and inflammatory markers observed in patients with asthma, is still ongoing. In the case of asthma and type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), a correlation with the dysfunction of the immune system and the genetic background has been suggested, and in the case of type 2 (T2DM), the vital role of obesity and insulin resistance (IR) to promote excessive proinflammatory immune response. The data indicate that both asthma and DM affect mutually their clinical presentations, including the prognostic values and therapeutic possibilities. The ongoing controversy concerning the effective and safe anti-asthma and hypoglycemizing therapy does not allow for a definitive therapeutic consensus in this group of patients, despite the suggested role of metformin and hyperglycemizing effects of glucocorticoids. Therefore, the objective of the presented paper is a review of the knowledge in the field of DM and asthma coincidence, their probable causal relationships and therapeutic opportunities. Full article
400 KiB  
Letter
Fogging of Goggles in PPE During COVID-19 Pandemic. A Practical Problem with Multiple Possible Solutions
by Manu Madan, Nipun Malhotra, Nitesh Gupta, Somya Ish and Pranav Ish
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 636-637; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0164 - 05 Nov 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 384
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic poses an unequivocal occupational risk to the health care community [...] Full article
636 KiB  
Review
Basics of Mechanical Ventilation for Non-Aneasthetists. Part 2: Clinical Aspects
by Zbigniew Putowski, Marcelina Czok, iotr S. Liberski and Łukasz J. Krzych
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 580-589; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0159 - 03 Nov 2020
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 471
Abstract
Invasive and non-invasive mechanical ventilation (MV) continues to be the most significant life support method. It is, however, coupled with many risks. Historically, concepts of MV did focus on improving the arterial blood gas results rather than preventing harmful side-effects of positive pressure [...] Read more.
Invasive and non-invasive mechanical ventilation (MV) continues to be the most significant life support method. It is, however, coupled with many risks. Historically, concepts of MV did focus on improving the arterial blood gas results rather than preventing harmful side-effects of positive pressure ventilation. Since then, multiple studies exploring this matter emerged and led to the protective MV concept. The golden mean between assuring the best oxygenation and limiting the ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) is still a matter of debate. These considerations are especially impactful while treating patients with adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), where the limitation of MV’s negative effect is specifically important. This paper explores the protective ventilation concept and clinical implications of the latter. Full article
268 KiB  
Article
Predictors of Successful Weaning in Patients Requiring Extremely Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation
by Yuval Leonov, Igor Kisil, Alona Perlov, Vladimir Stoichev, Yulia Ginzburg, Alla Nazarenko and Yuri Gimelfarb
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 477-484; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0151 - 03 Nov 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 615
Abstract
Introduction: For patients on prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV; > 21 days), successful weaning has been attributed to various factors. The aim of this study is to determine the usefulness of the rapid shallow breathing index(RSBI) and other potential predictors of successful weaning in [...] Read more.
Introduction: For patients on prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV; > 21 days), successful weaning has been attributed to various factors. The aim of this study is to determine the usefulness of the rapid shallow breathing index(RSBI) and other potential predictors of successful weaning in patients unable to wean and requiring extreme PMV at a hospital-based long-term ventilator facility in Israel. Material and ethods: Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data over 5 years. Results: A total of 150 subjects on PMV, ready to undergo a weaning process, were included in the study. Of them, 60 (40.0%) were males. The mean age of the whole study population was 76.5 years (SD = 13.6; range 22.0–96.0 years). The subjects were on MV for a mean period of 170.1 days (SD = 237.6; range 25.0–1624.0 days). Sixty patients (40%) were successfully weaned. The mean RSBI in the successfully weaned population was 41.9 breaths/min/L (SD = 12.3; range 13.0–80.4 breaths/min/L), in the population where weaning failed, it was 114.8 breaths/min/L (SD = 69.2; range 47.5–450.0 breaths/min/L). By univariate logistic regression analysis, younger age (p < 0.007), female gender (p < 0.001), decreased duration of MV (p < 0.023), re-spiratory rate (p < 0.001) and RSBI (p < 0.001), increased tidal volume/ideal body weight (p < 0.001) and minute ventilation (p < 0.01) were found to be factors that significantly predict successful weaning. By multivariate analysis, increased tidal volume/ /ideal body weight (p < 0.007) and decreased RSBI (p < 0.046) were found to be independent predictors of successful weaning (p < 0.001; R2 Nagelkerke = 0.90). Conclusions: Factors independently predicting successful weaning in patients requiring extreme PMV included increased tidal volume/ideal body weight and decreased RSBI. Full article
296 KiB  
Case Report
Cystic Fibrosis or Not? Familial Occurrence of a Rare Mutation in the CFTR Gene
by Paweł Zapolnik and Beata Zapolnik
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 612-614; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0142 - 30 Oct 2020
Viewed by 432
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis is a monogenic disease caused by a mutation in the CFTR gene. The classic presentation of the disease includes chronic bronchopulmonary symptoms. However, abnormalities in this gene may also be manifested by other phenotypes, so-called CFTR-related disorders. This is a group [...] Read more.
Cystic fibrosis is a monogenic disease caused by a mutation in the CFTR gene. The classic presentation of the disease includes chronic bronchopulmonary symptoms. However, abnormalities in this gene may also be manifested by other phenotypes, so-called CFTR-related disorders. This is a group of entities including disseminated bronchiectasis, congenital bilateral absence of vas deferens, and chronic pancreatitis. In this article, we present a family with a rare F1052V mutation and a polymorphic variant of IVS-5T+11TG. No classical form of the disease was observed in any of the persons affected by the above changes. Results of special investigations are also not typical, which hinders unequivocal diagnosis. Full article
473 KiB  
Case Report
Pott Disease: When Lumbar Pain is Not Innocent
by Evgenia Kalamara, Evangelos T Ballas and Guergana Petrova
Adv. Respir. Med. 2020, 88(6), 608-611; https://doi.org/10.5603/ARM.a2020.0154 - 27 Oct 2020
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2063
Abstract
Tuberculosis is a mycobacterial infection that can affect the lungs as well as other organs. The involvement of the spine, although rare, can have major consequences if not diagnosed and treated in a timely and effective manner, such as residual deformities and neurological [...] Read more.
Tuberculosis is a mycobacterial infection that can affect the lungs as well as other organs. The involvement of the spine, although rare, can have major consequences if not diagnosed and treated in a timely and effective manner, such as residual deformities and neurological deficits. On occasion, the atypical presentation of tuberculous spondylitis may cause a delay in treatment and therefore lead to less favorable outcomes. In this article, we present a rare case of progressed tuberculous infection involving the respiratory and musculoskeletal system in a 36-year-old patient whose main complaints were non-specific and mild, and started only two weeks before his diagnosis, despite the advanced disease. Full article
Previous Issue
Next Issue
Back to TopTop