Respiratory Medicine Research This is an OPML file. It can be used to export all the MedWorm RSS feeds on this topic into your personal RSS reader (usually you have to save this file to your own computer before clicking on an Import OPML command in your own feed reader to upload the file which will then import all the feeds) or it can be used by webmasters to integrate MedWorm feeds with their own website. This is an RSS file. You can use it to subscribe to this data in your favourite RSS reader, such as GoogleReader, or to display this data on your own website or blog. Subscribe to this data using MyMedWorm.Subscribe to this data using GoogleReader.Subscribe to this data using Bloglines.Subscribe to this data using MyYahoo.

This page shows you the most recent publications within this specialty of the MedWorm directory. This is page number 4.

Notes from the Field: Hospital Outbreak of Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae Producing New Delhi Metallo-Beta-Lactamase - Denver, Colorado, 2012.
Abstract On August 16, 2012, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment was notified of two patients at an acute-care hospital in Denver with carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE), specifically Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP), isolated from respiratory specimens during July-August. Both isolates produced New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase (NDM). A review of microbiology records identified a third patient with NDM-producing CRKP isolated from a respiratory specimen, admitted in May. Active surveillance cultures in September identified an additional five patients colonized with NDM-producing CRKP. An...
Source: MMWR Morb Mortal Wkl... - February 15, 2013 Category: Epidemiology Authors: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Tags: MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep Source Type: research

Obstructive Inflammatory Tracheal Pseudomembrane.
Abstract Pathologies acquired after the establishment of an artificial airway include stenosis, granulomas and the formation of pseudomembranes, to name a few. The most common form of presentation in adults is circumferential stenosis, which often requires therapeutic endoscopic measures to achieve resolution. This Case Report describes the case of an obstructive inflammatory tracheal pseudomembrane in the shape of a tracheal septum secondary to repeated intubations that was resolved with conservative treatment. The clinical presentation of this entity generally includes the appearance of respiratory infection and/...
Source: Archivos de Bronconeumologia - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Crespo-Lessmann A, Torrego-Fernández A Tags: Arch Bronconeumol Source Type: research

Inhibition of Overactive TGF-beta Signaling by Prostacyclin Analogues in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH).
This study demonstrates that this agent inhibits TGF-β1-induced SMAD-dependent and -independent signaling via a PKA dependent pathway by reducing the phosphorylation of SMADs 2 and 3 and p38MAPK proteins. Finally, in a monocrotaline (MCT)-induced rat model of PAH, which is associated with increased TGF-β signaling, this study confirms that treprostinil (TPS), a stable prostacyclin analogue, inhibits the TGF-β pathway by reducing SMAD3 phosphorylation. Taken together, these data suggest that prostacyclin analogues inhibit dysregulated TGF-β signaling in vitro and in vivo and reduce BMPR-II-mediated proliferation defect...
Source: Am J Respir Cell Mol... - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Ogo T, Chowdhury HM, Yang J, Long L, Li X, Torres Cleuren YN, Morrell NW, Schermuly RT, Trembath RC, Nasim MT Tags: Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol Source Type: research

Innate Immune Response of Human Alveolar Type II Cells Infected with SARS-Coronavirus.
Conclusions: Cultivation of alveolar type II cells at an air-liquid interface provides primary cultures in which to study the pulmonary innate immune responses to infection with SARS-CoV and to explore possible therapeutic approaches to modulating their innate immune response. PMID: 23418343 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Am J Respir Cell Mol... - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Qian Z, Travanty EA, Oko L, Edeen K, Berglund A, Wang J, Ito Y, Holmes KV, Mason R Tags: Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol Source Type: research

Spag17 is Essential for Motile Cilia Function and Neonatal Survival.
Abstract Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), resulting from defects in cilia assembly or motility, is caused by mutations in a number of genes encoding axonemal proteins. PCD phenotypes are variable, and include recurrent respiratory tract infections, bronchiectasis, hydrocephaly, situs inversus and male infertility. We generated knockout mice for the Spag17 gene, which encodes a central pair (CP) protein present in the axonemes of cells with "9+2" motile cilia or flagella. Targeting of Spag17 resulted in a severe phenotype characterized by immotile nasal and tracheal cilia, reduced clearance of nasal mucus, profound...
Source: Am J Respir Cell Mol... - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Teves ME, Zhang Z, Costanzo RM, Henderson SC, Corwin FD, Zweit J, Sundaresan G, Subler M, Salloum FN, Rubin BK, Strauss JF Tags: Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol Source Type: research

The return of the minimum clinically important difference for 6-minute-walk distance in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
PMID: 23418323 [PubMed - in process]
Source: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Holland AE, Nici L Tags: Am J Respir Crit Care Med Source Type: research

The promise of epigenetic therapies in treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
PMID: 23418324 [PubMed - in process]
Source: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Rosas IO, Yang IV Tags: Am J Respir Crit Care Med Source Type: research

Mitochondria in hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction: potential importance of compartmentalized reactive oxygen species signaling.
PMID: 23418325 [PubMed - in process]
Source: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Gillespie MN, Al-Mehdi AB, McMurtry IF Tags: Am J Respir Crit Care Med Source Type: research

Central sleep apnea: effects on stroke volume in heart failure.
PMID: 23418326 [PubMed - in process]
Source: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Cao M, Guilleminault C, Lin C Tags: Am J Respir Crit Care Med Source Type: research

It takes more than cells to make a good lung.
PMID: 23418327 [PubMed - in process]
Source: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Weibel ER Tags: Am J Respir Crit Care Med Source Type: research

24/7 intensivist coverage, macrolides in acute lung injury, and roflumilast.
PMID: 23418328 [PubMed - in process]
Source: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Amin EN, McCann ET, Mieczkowski BP Tags: Am J Respir Crit Care Med Source Type: research

The vanishing lungs!
PMID: 23418329 [PubMed - in process]
Source: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Mohammad K, Siddiqui MF, Badireddi S Tags: Am J Respir Crit Care Med Source Type: research

Endobronchial Ultrasound-guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration versus Cervical Mediastinoscopy: Case Selection Is Needed to Maintain Cost Benefits.
PMID: 23418330 [PubMed - in process]
Source: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Agarwal S, Ahmad N Tags: Am J Respir Crit Care Med Source Type: research

Endobronchial Ultrasound-guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration for Diagnosing and Subtyping Lung Cancer: Is It Required in All Patients?
PMID: 23418331 [PubMed - in process]
Source: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Maturu VN, Agarwal R Tags: Am J Respir Crit Care Med Source Type: research

Wanted: lung cancer pathologists.
PMID: 23418332 [PubMed - in process]
Source: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Rossi G Tags: Am J Respir Crit Care Med Source Type: research

Bronchobiliary fistula and lithoptysis after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and liver biopsy in a patient with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria.
PMID: 23418333 [PubMed - in process]
Source: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Harnoss JM, Yung R, Brodsky RA, Hruban RH, Boitnott JK, Murphy DJ, Yang SC, Choti MA Tags: Am J Respir Crit Care Med Source Type: research

Type V Collagen-induced Tolerance Prevents Airway Hyperresponsiveness.
PMID: 23418334 [PubMed - in process]
Source: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Lott JM, Sehra S, Mehrotra P, Mickler EA, Fisher AJ, Zhang W, Presson RG, Busk MF, Goenka S, Gunst SJ, Kaplan MH, Wilkes DS, Wenzel SE Tags: Am J Respir Crit Care Med Source Type: research

Unexpected bronchial anatomy lesson.
PMID: 23418335 [PubMed - in process]
Source: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Ribeiro Neto ML, Hoffman S, Almeida FA Tags: Am J Respir Crit Care Med Source Type: research

Relationship between Bradykinin-induced relaxation and endogenous epoxy-eicosanoid synthesis in human bronchi.
Abstract Epoxy-eicosanoids (EETs) are produced by CYP 450 epoxygenase; however it is not yet known what triggers their endogenous production in epithelial cells. The relaxing effects of Bradykinin are known to be related to endogenous production of epithelial-derived hyperpolarizing factors (EpDHF). Because of their effects on membrane potential, EETs have been reported to be EpDHF candidates (9). Thus, we hypothesized that Bradykinin may stimulate endogenous EET production in human bronchi. To test this hypothesis, the relaxing and hyperpolarizing effects of Bradykinin (BK) and 14,15-EET were quantified on human b...
Source: Am J Physiol Lung Ce... - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Tabet Y, Sirois M, Sirois C, Rizcallah E, Rousseau E Tags: Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol Source Type: research

Activation of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1 in Pulmonary Arterial Smooth Muscle Cells by Endothelin-1.
Abstract Numerous cellular responses to hypoxia are mediated by the transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1). HIF-1 plays a central role in the pathogenesis of hypoxic pulmonary hypertension. Under certain conditions, HIF-1 may utilize feed-forward mechanisms to amplify its activity. Since hypoxia increases endothelin-1 (ET-1) levels in the lung, we hypothesized that during moderate, prolonged hypoxia ET-1 might contribute to HIF-1 signaling in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs). Primary cultures of rat PASMCs were treated with ET-1 or exposed to moderate, prolonged hypoxia (4% O(2) for ...
Source: Am J Physiol Lung Ce... - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Pisarcik S, Maylor J, Lu W, Yun X, Undem C, Sylvester JT, Semenza GL, Shimoda LA Tags: Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol Source Type: research

Infant Baboons Infected with Respiratory Syncytial Virus Develop Clinical and Pathologic Changes that Parallel Those of Human Infants.
Abstract Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection of the lower respiratory tract is the leading cause of respiratory failure among infants in the USA, and annually results in more than 300,000 deaths worldwide. Despite the importance of RSV, there is no licensed vaccine, and no specific form of therapy. This is largely due to the absence of an appropriate animal model for the evaluation of vaccines and therapeutic agents. We inoculated anesthetized infant (4 week) baboons (Papio anubis) with a human strain of RSV intranasally or intratracheally. Baboons were monitored daily for clinical changes. Anesthetized bab...
Source: Am J Physiol Lung Ce... - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Papin JF, Wolf RF, Kosanke SD, Jenkins JD, Moore SN, Anderson MP, Welliver RC Tags: Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol Source Type: research

High-intensity training induces EIB in rats through neuron transdifferentiation of adrenal medulla chromaffin cells.
Conclusion: Our study suggests that NGF may play a vital role in the pathogenesis of EIB by inducing neuron transdifferentiation of AMCC via MAPK pathways and subsequently decreasing circulating EPI. PMID: 23418092 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Am J Physiol Lung Ce... - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: He R, Feng JT, Xun Q, Qin Q, Hu C Tags: Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol Source Type: research

STORE OPERATED CHANNELS IN THE PULMONARY CIRCULATION OF HIGH AND LOW ALTITUDE NEONATAL LAMBS.
Abstract We determined whether store operated channels (SOC) are involved in neonatal pulmonary artery function under conditions of acute and chronic hypoxia, using newborn sheep gestated and born either at high altitude (HA, 3,600m) or low altitude (LA, 520 m). Cardiopulmonary variables were recorded in vivo, with and without SOC blockade by 2-aminoethyldiphenylborinate (2-APB), during basal or acute hypoxic conditions. 2-APB did not have effects on basal mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP), cardiac output (CO), systemic arterial blood pressure or vascular resistance in both groups of neonates. During acute hy...
Source: Am J Physiol Lung Ce... - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Parrau D, Ebensperger G, Herrera EA, Moraga FA, Riquelme RA, Ulloa CE, Rojas RT, Silva P, Hernandez I, Ferrada J, Diaz M, Parer JT, Cabello G, Llanos AJ, Reyes RV Tags: Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol Source Type: research

Lower Energy Expenditure Predicts Long-Term Increases in Weight and Fat Mass.
Conclusions:Measures of energy expenditure and substrate oxidation are predictors of long-term weight change, indicating a small but significant role for reduced metabolic rate in weight gain. PMID: 23418317 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism - February 15, 2013 Category: Endocrinology Authors: Piaggi P, Thearle MS, Bogardus C, Krakoff J Tags: J Clin Endocrinol Metab Source Type: research

Cryptogenic Organizing Pneumonia During Adjuvant Chemotherapy With Oxaliplatin, 5-Fluorouracil, and Leucovorin (FOLFOX) for Colon Cancer
We describe a case of cryptogenic organizing pneumonia (COP) occurring in a 78-year-old woman after receiving 2 cycles of modified FOLFOX6 as adjuvant chemotherapy for treatment of resected nonmetastatic colon cancer. This patient presented with respiratory symptoms including cough with scant clear sputum and wheezing on day 10 of the second cycle of mFOLFOX6. Despite therapy with systemic antibiotics and supplemental oxygen, she had a steady and relentless progression of her respiratory symptoms and status, with chest radiographs revealing progressive bilateral pulmonary infiltrates. Further chest radiograph evaluation de...
Source: Journal of Pharmacy Practice - February 15, 2013 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Authors: Shogbon, A. O., Hap, J., Dretler, R., Dalvi, A. G. Tags: Adverse Drug Events Source Type: research

Asthma Education in the Student Laboratory
The Integrated Pharmacy Skills Laboratory (IPSL) at South University School of Pharmacy is dedicated to providing future pharmacists with the necessary knowledge and skills to care for asthma patients. Asthma is a chronic respiratory disorder that is characterized by airway inflammation, hyper responsive airways, and bronchoconstriction. It affects more than 30 million people and accounts for $30 billion in health care costs. Therefore, it is vital for our students to be educated in asthma management including medications and devices to improve patient outcomes. Students, as future pharmacist, learn to manage asthma patien...
Source: Journal of Pharmacy Practice - February 15, 2013 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Authors: Thurmon, T. B., Schwartz, L. L., Jervis, K. P. Tags: Theme Articles Source Type: research

Free breathing three‐dimensional gradient echo‐sequence with radial data sampling (radial 3D‐GRE) examination of the pancreas: Comparison with standard 3D‐GRE volumetric interpolated breathhold examination (VIBE)
Conclusion:Free breathing radial 3D‐GRE may be applicable for pancreatic MR imaging in patients who are unable to suspend respiration. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Source: Journal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging - February 15, 2013 Category: Radiology Authors: Saraporn Bamrungchart, Engy M. Tantaway, Esin C. Midia, Mateus A. Hernandes, Saowanee Srirattanapong, Brian M. Dale, Richard C. Semelka Tags: Technical Note Source Type: research

Intertissue Differences for the Role of Glutamate Dehydrogenase in Metabolism.
Abstract The enzyme glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) plays an important role in integrating mitochondrial metabolism of amino acids and ammonia. Glutamate may function as a respiratory substrate in the oxidative deamination direction of GDH, which also yields α-ketoglutarate. In the reductive amination direction GDH produces glutamate, which can then be used for other cellular needs such as amino acid synthesis via transamination. The production or removal of ammonia by GDH is also an important consequence of flux through this enzyme. However, the abundance and role of GDH in cellular metabolism varies by tissue. Her...
Source: Neurochemical Research - February 15, 2013 Category: Neuroscience Authors: Treberg JR, Banh S, Pandey U, Weihrauch D Tags: Neurochem Res Source Type: research

Free Jejunal Graft Repair after PharyngoLaryngo-Esophagectomy-Risk Factor Analysis for Postoperative Dysphagia.
Conclusion: FJG reconstruction may be safe and functionally satisfactory surgical option after pharyngo-laryngo-esophagectomy. Postoperative dysphagia may be induced prior radiation therapy. PMID: 23411842 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Annals of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery - February 15, 2013 Category: Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery Authors: Yamana I, Shiraishi T, Shiroshita T, Hoshino S, Sueta T, Nakagawa T, Yamashita Y Tags: Ann Thorac Cardiovasc Surg Source Type: research

Primary Adenocarcinoma of the Bronchus;Palliative Resection with Rigid Bronchoscopy,Followed Curative Pulmonary Sleeve Resection; Report of a Case.
Abstract A rare case of a patient with primary adenocarcinoma of the middle lobe bronchus that was successfully treated with rigid bronchoscopy followed by middle sleeve lobectomy is reported. The patient was a 75-year-old man who presented with low-grade fever and cough. Chest computed tomography showed obstructive pneumonia of the lower lobe and a polypoid lesion in the truncus intermedius. Middle sleeve lobectomy and mediastinal lymphadenectomy were performed following recovery of respiratory function after partial resection of the tumor with rigid bronchoscopy. There was no sign of tumor recurrence and metastas...
Source: Annals of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery - February 15, 2013 Category: Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery Authors: Miyazaki T, Yamasaki N, Tsuchiya T, Matsumoto K, Tagawa T, Hayashi H, Nagayasu T Tags: Ann Thorac Cardiovasc Surg Source Type: research

Case report: Severe disseminated adenovirus infection in a neonate following water birth delivery
We present a case of infant who developed severe pneumonia and disseminated adenoviral infection following water birth delivery to a mother with gastroenteritis. The infant's infection was due to an adenovirus strain that has not been previously reported in neonates. J. Med. Virol. 85:667–669, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Source: Journal of Medical Virology - February 15, 2013 Category: Virology Authors: Stacey L. Soileau, Eileen Schneider, Dean D. Erdman, Xiaoyan Lu, William D. Ryan, Ryan M. McAdams Tags: Case Report Source Type: research

Distinct patterns of leukocyte recruitment in the pulmonary microvasculature in response to local and systemic inflammation
In conclusion, our data demonstrate that pulmonary microvascular recruitment of leukocytes differs in local and systemic inflammation, which might be related to premature activation and stiffening of circulating leukocytes in endotoxemia.
Source: AJP: Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Wang, Y., Roller, J., Slotta, J. E., Zhang, S., Luo, L., Rahman, M., Syk, I., Menger, M. D., Thorlacius, H. Tags: CALL FOR PAPERS Source Type: research

Mitochondrial-targeted DNA repair enzyme 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase 1 protects against ventilator-induced lung injury in intact mice
This study tested the hypothesis that oxidative mitochondrial-targeted DNA (mtDNA) damage triggered ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI). Control mice and mice infused with a fusion protein targeting the DNA repair enzyme, 8-oxoguanine-DNA glycosylase 1 (OGG1) to mitochondria were mechanically ventilated with a range of peak inflation pressures (PIP) for specified durations. In minimal VILI (1 h at 40 cmH2O PIP), lung total extravascular albumin space increased 2.8-fold even though neither lung wet/dry (W/D) weight ratios nor bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-2 or IL-6 failed to differ fro...
Source: AJP: Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Hashizume, M., Mouner, M., Chouteau, J. M., Gorodnya, O. M., Ruchko, M. V., Potter, B. J., Wilson, G. L., Gillespie, M. N., Parker, J. C. Tags: ARTICLES Source Type: research

Regulation of interleukin-6 secretion by the two-pore-domain potassium channel Trek-1 in alveolar epithelial cells
This study was designed to investigate the mechanisms by which Trek-1 decreases IL-6 secretion. We hypothesized that Trek-1 regulates tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-induced IL-6 release via NF-B-, p38-, and PKC-dependent pathways. We found that Trek-1 deficiency decreased IL-6 secretion from mouse and human AECs at both transcriptional and translational levels. While NF-B/p65 phosphorylation was unchanged, p38 phosphorylation was decreased in Trek-1-deficient cells, and pharmacological inhibition of p38 decreased IL-6 secretion in control but not Trek-1-deficient cells. Similarly, pharmacological inhibition of...
Source: AJP: Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Schwingshackl, A., Teng, B., Ghosh, M., Lim, K. G., Tigyi, G., Narayanan, D., Jaggar, J. H., Waters, C. M. Tags: ARTICLES Source Type: research

Ambrisentan reduces pulmonary arterial hypertension but does not stimulate alveolar and vascular development in neonatal rats with hyperoxic lung injury
In conclusion, ambrisentan prolongs survival and reduces lung injury, PAH, and RVH via a NOS-independent mechanism but does not affect inflammation and alveolar and vascular development in neonatal rats with CLD.
Source: AJP: Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Wagenaar, G. T. M., Laghmani, E. H., de Visser, Y. P., Sengers, R. M. A., Steendijk, P., Baelde, H. J., Walther, F. J. Tags: ARTICLES Source Type: research

The receptor for advanced glycation end products mediates lung endothelial activation by RBCs
The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is a multiligand pattern recognition receptor implicated in multiple disease states. Although RAGE is expressed on systemic vascular endothelium, the expression and function of RAGE on lung endothelium has not been studied. Utilizing in vitro (human) and in vivo (mouse) models, we established the presence of RAGE on lung endothelium. Because RAGE ligands can induce the expression of RAGE and stored red blood cells express the RAGE ligand N-carboxymethyl lysine, we investigated whether red blood cell (RBC) transfusion would augment RAGE expression on endothelium utiliz...
Source: AJP: Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Mangalmurti, N. S., Friedman, J. L., Wang, L.-C., Stolz, D., Muthukumaran, G., Siegel, D. L., Schmidt, A. M., Lee, J. S., Albelda, S. M. Tags: ARTICLES Source Type: research

Endothelial cell PTP1B regulates leukocyte recruitment during allergic inflammation
Pulmonary eosinophilia is a consistent hallmark of allergic lung inflammation. Infiltration of eosinophils into ovalbumin (OVA)-challenged lungs is dependent on the adhesion molecule vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) on endothelial cells. Ligation of VCAM-1 activates endothelial cell protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B), which is required for VCAM-1-dependent leukocyte migration in vitro. To examine whether nonhematopoietic PTP1B modulates eosinophil recruitment in vivo, mice deficient in PTP1B were irradiated and received wild-type hematopoietic cells to generate chimeric PTP1B–/– mice. In response...
Source: AJP: Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Berdnikovs, S., Abdala-Valencia, H., Cook-Mills, J. M. Tags: ARTICLES Source Type: research

Evidence of synergistic/additive effects of sildenafil and erythropoietin in enhancing survival and migration of hypoxic endothelial cells
Endothelial cell dysfunction is a common event to several pathologies including pulmonary hypertension, which is often associated with hypoxia. As the endothelium plays an essential role in regulating the dynamic interaction between pulmonary vasodilatation and vasoconstriction, this cell type is fundamental in the development of vascular remodeling and increased vascular resistance. We investigated the protective effects of sildenafil, a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor, given in combination with erythropoietin (Epo), as it has been demonstrated that both drugs have antiapoptotic effects on several cell types. Specifica...
Source: AJP: Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Gammella, E., Leuenberger, C., Gassmann, M., Ostergaard, L. Tags: ARTICLES Source Type: research

Geranylgeranyl transferase regulates CXC chemokine formation in alveolar macrophages and neutrophil recruitment in septic lung injury
Overwhelming accumulation of neutrophils is a significant component in septic lung damage, although the signaling mechanisms behind neutrophil infiltration in the lung remain elusive. In the present study, we hypothesized that geranylgeranylation might regulate the inflammatory response in abdominal sepsis. Male C57BL/6 mice received the geranylgeranyl transferase inhibitor, GGTI-2133, before cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lung tissue were harvested for analysis of neutrophil infiltration, as well as edema and CXC chemokine formation. Blood was collected for analysis of Mac-1 on neutrop...
Source: AJP: Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Hasan, Z., Rahman, M., Palani, K., Syk, I., Jeppsson, B., Thorlacius, H. Tags: ARTICLES Source Type: research

Reproducible uniform equibiaxial stretch of precision-cut lung slices
We describe a novel method for attaching PCLSs to silicone membranes by stitching them together in a star-shaped pattern. Using a device that was previously designed in our laboratory for stretching primary alveolar epithelial cell monolayers, we demonstrate that in the central region of the PCLSs stretch is uniform, equibiaxial, and, after a short preconditioning period, also reproducible. The stitched and stretched PCLSs showed equal or better viability outcomes after 60 min of cyclic stretch at different magnitudes of physiological stretch compared with primary pulmonary alveolar epithelial cell monolayers. Preparing an...
Source: AJP: Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Davidovich, N., Huang, J., Margulies, S. S. Tags: CALL FOR PAPERS Source Type: research

Nicotine-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition via Wnt/{beta}-catenin signaling in human airway epithelial cells
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been proposed to be a mechanism in airway remodeling, which is a characteristic of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Studies have shown that cigarette smoke and nicotine are factors that induce Wnt/β-catenin activation, which is a pathway that has also been implicated in EMT. The main aim of this study was to test whether human bronchial epithelial cells are able to undergo EMT in vitro following nicotine stimulation via the Wnt3a/β-catenin signaling pathway. We show that nicotine activates the Wnt3a signal pathway, which leads to the translocation of β...
Source: AJP: Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Zou, W., Zou, Y., Zhao, Z., Li, B., Ran, P. Tags: CALL FOR PAPERS Source Type: research

Local Nordic tobacco interests collaborated with multinational companies to maintain a united front and undermine tobacco control policies
Conclusions Local tobacco companies worked with multinational companies to undermine tobacco control in distant and small Nordic markets because of concern that pioneering policies initiated in Nordic countries would spread to bigger market areas. Claims by the local Nordic companies that they were not actively involved with the multinationals are not supported by the facts. These results also demonstrate that the industry appreciates the global importance of both positive and negative public health precedents in tobacco control.
Source: Tobacco Control - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Hiilamo, H., Glantz, S. A. Tags: Online articles Source Type: research

What is known about tobacco industry efforts to influence tobacco tax? A systematic review of empirical studies
Conclusions The tobacco industry has historically tried to keep tobacco taxes low using consistent tactics and misleading arguments. Further research is required to explore efforts to influence tax structures, excise policies beyond the USA and recent policies.
Source: Tobacco Control - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Smith, K. E., Savell, E., Gilmore, A. B. Tags: Online articles Source Type: research

Contents and price of vendor assembled paan quid with tobacco in five London localities: a cross-sectional study
Conclusions Vendor assembled PQT shares similar ingredients but varies by assembly locality, price and tobacco and lime weights. Tobacco and lime weights were balanced to ensure optimal free nicotine availability and dependency potential.
Source: Tobacco Control - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Croucher, R., Dahiya, M., Gowda, K. K. Tags: Brief report Source Type: research

The illegal cigarette market in a socioeconomically deprived inner-city area: the case of the South Bronx
Conclusions The present study highlights the importance of examining the illegal cigarette market in socioeconomically deprived regions of the US, where tax avoidance and black market activities appear to far exceed levels found elsewhere in the country including Chicago and New York City at large.
Source: Tobacco Control - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Kurti, M. K., von Lampe, K., Thompkins, D. E. Tags: Brief report Source Type: research

Hookah steam stones: smoking vapour expands from electronic cigarettes to waterpipes
A hookah is a waterpipe (also known as narghile or shisha) used to smoke flavoured tobacco. It is estimated that the hookah is used daily by more than 100 million people globally.1 Further, hookah smoking appears to be increasing both worldwide and in the USA.2–5 A limited number of studies suggest that health risks associated with hookah smoking are similar to those of cigarette smoking.6 7 A single session of hookah smoking can last 30–60 min, with over 100 inhalations.8 9 Despite data demonstrating potential health risks, smokers perceive hookah use as less harmful than cigarettes10 because of its sweet...
Source: Tobacco Control - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Lee, Y. O., Mukherjea, A., Grana, R. Tags: Industry watch Source Type: research

Objective measurement of area differences in 'private' smoking behaviour: observing smoking in vehicles
Conclusions Observing smoking in vehicles using a single-observer method provides a feasible and objective indicator of the different smoking behaviours, especially around children, within an area. This study further supports the evidence from this country and internationally that adults and children from high-deprivation areas are much more likely to be exposed to secondhand smoke.
Source: Tobacco Control - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Patel, V., Thomson, G., Wilson, N. Tags: Research paper Source Type: research

The emotional impact of European tobacco-warning images
Conclusion Findings suggest that the capability of the European tobacco-warning images to prompt negative attitudes to reduce tobacco consumption might not extend to the general population but would be limited to specific target groups.
Source: Tobacco Control - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Munoz, M. A., Viedma-del-Jesus, M. I., Rossello, F., Sanchez-Nacher, N., Montoya, P., Vila, J. Tags: Research paper Source Type: research

Association between use of nicotine replacement therapy for harm reduction and smoking cessation: a prospective study of English smokers
Conclusions The use of NRT for SR or TA appears to be positively associated with subsequent attempts to quit smoking and abstinence among smokers in England, despite very little apparent effect on daily cigarette consumption. With replication, these findings support the potential benefit of using NRT for harm reduction but primarily as a means of promoting cessation.
Source: Tobacco Control - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Beard, E., McNeill, A., Aveyard, P., Fidler, J., Michie, S., West, R. Tags: Editor's choice Research paper Source Type: research

Did a local clean indoor air policy increase alcohol-related crime around bars and restaurants?
Conclusions Evidence from this study suggests that alcohol-related crimes were not significantly affected by a local comprehensive CIA policy that banned smoking in public workplaces in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Source: Tobacco Control - February 15, 2013 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Klein, E. G., Forster, J. L., Toomey, T. L., Broder-Oldach, B., Erickson, D. J., Collins, N. M. Tags: Research paper Source Type: research