Search Results (8,775)

Human parainfluenza virus type 3 (HPIV-3) can cause severe respiratory diseases, particularly in young children, the elderly and immunocompromised. There are no approved antiviral drugs against this virus. We report that the combination of ribavirin with either remdesivir or its parent nucleoside GS-441524 results in a pronounced antiviral effect against HPIV-3 in LLC-MK2 cells and in human airway epithelial cells grown at the air–liquid interface. In AG129 mice intranasally inoculated with HPIV-3, the combined treatment with ribavirin and GS-441524 decreased infectious viral lung titers by >2.5 log₁₀ to undetectable levels in 4 out of 11 mice and by 1.6 log₁₀ in the remaining 7 mice as compared with the vehicle. The lungs of all mice that received the combined treatment appeared histologically normal or virtually normal, whereas 8 of 11 vehicle-treated mice presented with bronchopneumonia. By contrast, ribavirin alone did not result in a reduction in infectious viral lung titers; GS-441524 alone reduced infectious viral lung titers by 1.2 log₁₀. Moreover, several mice in the single-treatment groups exhibited severe lung pathology. These findings may warrant exploring this combination in patients with severe HPIV-3 infections and possibly also against infections with other viruses that are susceptible in vitro to these two drugs. Full article

Breast, colon, and lung carcinomas are classified as aggressive tumors with poor relapse-free survival (RFS), progression-free survival (PF), and poor hazard ratios (HRs) despite extensive therapy. Therefore, it is essential to identify a gene expression signature that correlates with RFS/PF and HR status in order to predict treatment efficiency. RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) play critical roles in RNA metabolism, including RNA transcription, maturation, and post-translational regulation. However, their involvement in cancer is not yet fully understood. In this study, we used computational bioinformatics to classify the functions and correlations of RBPs in solid cancers. We aimed to identify molecular biomarkers that could help predict disease prognosis and improve the therapeutic efficiency in treated patients. Intersection analysis summarized more than 1659 RBPs across three recently updated RNA databases. Bioinformatics analysis showed that 58 RBPs were common in breast, colon, and lung cancers, with HR values < 1 and >1 and a significant Q-value < 0.0001. RBP gene clusters were identified based on RFS/PF, HR, p-value, and fold induction. To define union RBPs, common genes were subjected to hierarchical clustering and were classified into two groups. Poor survival was associated with high genes expression, including CDKN2A, MEX3A, RPL39L, VARS, GSPT1, SNRPE, SSR1, and TIA1 in breast and colon cancer but not with lung cancer; and poor survival was associated with low genes expression, including PPARGC1B, EIF4E3, and SMAD9 in breast, colon, and lung cancer. This study highlights the significant contribution of PPARGC1B, EIF4E3, and SMAD9 out of 11 RBP genes as prognostic predictors in patients with breast, colon, and lung cancers and their potential application in personalized therapy. Full article

Bacillus anthracis is a deadly pathogen that under unfavourable conditions forms highly resistant spores which enable them to survive for a long period of time. Spores of B. anthracis are transmitted through the contaminated soil or animal products and enter to the host through the skin, lungs or oral route and can cause cutaneous, injection, inhalation and gastrointestinal anthrax, respectively. The disease is caused by the toxin which is produced by them once they germinate within the host cell. Anthrax toxin is the major virulence factor which has the ability to kill the host cell. The role of protein kinases and phosphatases of B. anthracis in toxin production and other virulence related properties have also been reported. There are two vaccines, BioThrax and CYFENDUS^TM, which are approved by the FDA-USA to prevent anthrax disease. Recently, anthrax toxin has also been shown to be a potential candidate for cancer therapeutics. Through present review, we aim to provide insights into sporulation, transmission and pathogenesis of B. anthracis as well as the current state of its prevention, treatment, vaccines and possible therapeutic uses in cancer. Full article

Humanity stands at a pivotal moment of technological revolution, with artificial intelligence (AI) reshaping fields traditionally reliant on human cognitive abilities. This transition, driven by advancements in artificial neural networks, has transformed data processing and evaluation, creating opportunities for addressing complex and time-consuming tasks with AI solutions. Convolutional networks (CNNs) and the adoption of GPU technology have already revolutionized image recognition by enhancing computational efficiency and accuracy. In radiology, AI applications are particularly valuable for tasks involving pattern detection and classification; for example, AI tools have enhanced diagnostic accuracy and efficiency in detecting abnormalities across imaging modalities through automated feature extraction. Our analysis reveals that neuroimaging and chest imaging, as well as CT and MRI modalities, are the primary focus areas for AI products, reflecting their high clinical demand and complexity. AI tools are also used to target high-prevalence diseases, such as lung cancer, stroke, and breast cancer, underscoring AI’s alignment with impactful diagnostic needs. The regulatory landscape is a critical factor in AI product development, with the majority of products certified under the Medical Device Directive (MDD) and Medical Device Regulation (MDR) in Class IIa or Class I categories, indicating compliance with moderate-risk standards. A rapid increase in AI product development from 2017 to 2020, peaking in 2020 and followed by recent stabilization and saturation, was identified. In this work, the authors review the advancements in AI-based imaging applications, underscoring AI’s transformative potential for enhanced diagnostic support and focusing on the critical role of CNNs, regulatory challenges, and potential threats to human labor in the field of diagnostic imaging. Full article

Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are a heterogeneous group of pulmonary disorders characterised by variable degrees of inflammation, interstitial thickening, and fibrosis leading to distortion of the pulmonary architecture and gas exchange impairment. There are approximately 200 different entities in this category. ILDs are commonly classified based on several criteria, including causes, clinical features, and radiological patterns. Chest HRCT is the gold standard for the recognition of lung alteration patterns underlying interstitial lung diseases (ILDs), diagnosing specific patterns, and evaluating radiologic progression. Methods based on artificial intelligence (AI) may be used in computational medicine, especially in image-based specialties such as radiology. The evolving field of radiomics offers a unique and non-invasive approach to extracting quantitative information from medical images, particularly high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scans. This comprehensive review explores the burgeoning role of radiomics in unravelling the intricacies of interstitial lung disease. It focuses on its potential applications in diagnosis, prognostication, and treatment response evaluation. Full article

Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) is one of the most common causes of mortality in idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathies (IIM). Despite these conditions being commonly associated with proximal weakness, skin rashes and arthritis, ILD can be the first or the sole clinical feature in up to 60% of patients, potentially leading to incorrect diagnosis. The early recognition of an underlying IIM in ILD patients can allow for prompt treatment, which could potentially stabilize or even improve the lung disease, also avoiding the development of other clinical features associated with the condition. The objective of this review is to describe the clinical, serological and radiological features associated with IIM-ILD, mainly focusing on dermatomyositis and antisynthetase syndrome. Full article

Graptopetalum paraguayense (G. paraguayense) is a succulent plant that has been used in traditional Chinese and Taiwanese medicine, mainly for antihypertensive and hepatoprotective activities. G. paraguayense is also used as an edible vegetable, which is considered a functional food. Different in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies have highlighted the multiple pharmacological activities of G. paraguayense, which include anticancer, antibacterial, antiviral, antiasthma, antihypertensive, skin-whitening and anti-aging, anti-Alzheimer, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective activities. Numerous studies revealed the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of G. paraguayense, which may be the major contributing factor for multiple pharmacological activities and the protective effect of G. paraguayense on pancreatic, liver, lung, colon, and brain diseases. Initial safety studies on animal models also support the therapeutic candidature of G. paraguayense. The presence of numerous bioactive phytochemicals, especially polyphenols, and the identification of important disease targets of G. paraguayense emphasize its high therapeutic potential. The lack of a directional approach and limited in vivo studies limit the development of G. paraguayense against important diseases. Still, a compilation of pharmacological activities and target pathways of G. paraguayense is missing in the literature. The current review not only compiles pharmacological activities and phytochemicals but also highlights gaps and proposes future directions for developing G. paraguayense as a candidate against important diseases. Full article

Sarcoidosis is a multi-system granulomatous disease of unknown etiology. In genetically susceptible individuals, the precipitating factors generate, via immunity mechanisms, a host granulomatous response. The granuloma, for unknown reasons thus far, may resolve or may persist and lead to organ damage and fibrosis. Infectious agents, occupational exposure, obesity, smoking and genetic factors are implicated in the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis. Macrophages are important in granuloma formation, and their M1/M2 phenotype is associated with the prognosis of the disease. CD4⁺ T helper cells play a central role in the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis. The major contributors appear to be Th1 and Th17.1 cells, whose microenvironmental behavior is dictated by the secretions of macrophages and dendritic cells. Higher levels of Th1 and Th17.1 cells are associated with chronic disease and resistance to corticosteroid treatment. In recent years, advances in the phenotyping of sarcoidosis with the help of HRCT, PET-CT and lung function tests have provided us with a better understanding of the disease. Genetic phenotyping performed by the GenPhenReSa consortium and the SAGA study has led to the recognition of new, distinct phenotypes. The reconstitution of dysregulated autophagy through persistent m-TORC-1 pathways may be a new treatment target in sarcoidosis. Full article

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease with an unknown etiology. While certain genes provide strong susceptibility factors, the role of environmental factors is becoming increasingly recognized. Among genetic factors, human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes, encoded within the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), have been linked to predisposition to RA, while among environmental factors, smoking, infections and diet are the major contributors. Genetic and environmental factors impact microbial composition in the host. Based on the dysbiosis observed in the gut and lung microbiome, a mucosal origin of RA has been suggested. However, proving whether genes or microbes provide a stronger risk factor has been difficult. Studies from RA patients and various mouse models, specifically humanized mice expressing HLA class II genes, have been instrumental in defining the role of environmental factors such as smoking and endogenous small intestinal microbes in modulating arthritis severity. The consensus based on most studies support an interaction between host genetic and environmental factors in the onset and severity of disease. However, until now, no microbial markers for disease prognosis or treatment efficacy have been available. Here, the role of gut microbes as markers of disease severity, and the potential for using endogenous commensals for modulating immune responses to suppress inflammation in the context of genetic factors, are discussed. Full article

This study aimed to provide insights into the main causes of postmortem carcass and organ condemnations in a pig slaughterhouse and evaluate the resulting financial impact of the rejection of edible parts of animals. A population of 307,866 pigs, admitted for slaughter between January 2021 and December 2022 in a Bavarian abattoir, was studied. Regarding the examined carcasses, 2.09% (n = 6422) presented pathological conditions. Of these, 8.12% (n = 522) and 91.88% (n = 5900) were totally and partially confiscated, respectively. The main reason for the complete rejection of carcasses was the occurrence of generalized diseases (62.6%), while the presence of abscesses and traumatic and/or tail lesions was the most frequently implicated (70.7%) in partial condemnations. In the case of the organs, 17.59% (n = 54,145) presented abnormalities, with distributions of 14.71% (n = 45,290), 1.94% (n = 5968), 0.72% (n = 2213), and 0.22% (n = 674) within the examined liver, lung, kidney, and heart specimens, respectively. The principal reasons for liver, lung, kidney, and heart condemnations were the occurrence of parasitic diseases (53.4%), bacterial/viral infections (63.5%), dystrophies/anomalies (98.4%), and bacterial/viral infections (98.5%), respectively. The total financial loss attributable to carcass and organ condemnations was estimated at EUR 392,744.2, which represents 0.40% of the total achievable net revenue without rejections. Of this, EUR 197,120 (0.20%) and EUR 195,624.2 (6.95%) were related to carcass and offal seizures, respectively. The study results offer useful information for veterinarians, stockowners, and epidemiologists to make and set up policies to increase the efficiency and benefits of the swine production system and protect public health. Full article

Background: Transbronchial lung cryobiopsy (TBLC) has a high incidence of adverse events. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the occurrence of these events and the condition of the pathology samples or pathological diagnosis in TBLC. Methods: We studied 102 patients who underwent TBLC for the diagnosis of interstitial lung disease. We analyzed the association between the condition or diagnosis of pathology samples and the occurrence of TBLC-related adverse events, including hemorrhage, pneumothorax, and acute exacerbation of interstitial lung disease. Results: The adverse events occurred in 19 patients (18.6%), of which hemorrhage was the most common (14 patients, 13.7%). The patients who experienced adverse events, especially hemorrhage, were less likely to have successful sampling with TBLC and showed lower diagnostic confidence in the pathology results. The diagnostic confidence was level A in 50 cases (49.0%) and level C in 23 cases (22.6%). TBLC-related adverse events, including hemorrhage, were significantly more common in patients with lower pathological confidence levels. Conclusions: TBLC-related adverse events, particularly hemorrhage, can lead to fewer successful samples and lower levels of diagnostic confidence. Full article

Background and Objectives: The relationship between psoriasis and pulmonary comorbidities remains to be explained. Our main objective was to investigate pulmonary parenchymal alterations in psoriasis outpatients with chest CT scans who did not exhibit pulmonary symptoms, regardless of their course of treatment or disease severity. Materials and Methods: We examined pulmonary function tests, laboratory data, and SF-36 questionnaires from 270 consecutive psoriasis patients who underwent high-resolution computed tomography scans. Psoriasis duration, treatment details, and smoking status were analyzed to identify the associations affecting lung involvement. Results: The median age was 48 years, and the median duration of psoriasis was 15 years. A total of 72.6% were on biologics with a median PASI score of 1.5. In total, 43.2% were current smokers. Radiologists reported parenchymal lesions in 118 (43%) of the 270 patients’ HRCT images. Reticular changes (41%) were the most common radiological finding, followed by nodules (38%), and emphysematous changes (21%). Only age, mental health, and smoking status were found to influence the possibility of the occurrence of HRCT findings in multivariate analysis (p < 0.001). PASI scores and treatment options did not impact pulmonary parenchymal alterations (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The striking part was that when compared to never smokers, the imaging findings were 1.9 times more common in current smokers (p < 0.05). Using international consensus criteria, two (0.01%) patients were radiologically diagnosed as UIP, and two (0.01%) were identified as NSIP. Psoriasis patients may exert pulmonary disease without clinical manifestation. Pulmonary function tests and radiological evaluation with CT are highly recommended in detecting pulmonary parenchymal changes when indications such as age and current smoking history are present. Full article

Background/Objectives: Severe allergic asthma is usually treated with omalizumab; however, this drug may not be effective for every patient. By its action, dupilumab could be an alternative in these patients. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of dupilumab in patients with severe allergic asthma, non-responsive to omalizumab, according to the maintenance of their oral corticosteroid (OCS) dose, an exacerbation rate decrease, or poor control of the disease, despite optimized treatment. Methods: A retrospective analysis of data from severe asthma clinics was performed, observing the efficacy of the switch to dupilumab in patients who experienced a failed treatment with omalizumab. Results: Forty-two patients were included. Dupilumab proved to be effective in patients who experienced a failed omalizumab treatment, with a significant reduction in the exacerbation number and OCS use. Furthermore, remission of the disease, according to the Severe Asthma Network of Italy (SANI) criteria, was achieved in 35 patients, with complete remission in 19 (45%) and partial remission in 16 (38%). The analysis of the predictors of the success of dupilumab therapy in achieving clinical remission, through univariate analysis of the data at baseline, showed that complete remission was more easily reached in patients with concomitant aspirin (ASA) intolerance or in those with nasal polyposis. Conclusions: Dupilumab is an effective drug for the treatment of patients with severe asthma with an allergic component, with better benefits in patients with an ASA intolerance or nasal polyposis. Full article

Petroleum refining and petrochemical complexes are significant sources of air pollution, emitting a variety of harmful pollutants with substantial health risks for nearby populations. While much of the information regarding this issue and the potential health impacts of this pollution has been documented, it remains fragmented across studies focusing on specific regions or health outcomes. These studies are often clustered into meta-analyses or reviews or exist as undeclared knowledge held by experts in the field, making it difficult to fully grasp the scope of the issue. To address this gap, our review consolidates the existing knowledge on the sources of air pollution from petroleum refining and petrochemical industries, the main pollutants involved, and their associated health outcomes. Additionally, we conducted an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analysis and also included critical reviews. With this approach, we identified 12 reviews that comprehensively evaluate the health impacts in populations living near petroleum refining and/or petrochemical complexes. These reviews included studies spanning several decades (from 1980 to 2020) and encompassing regions across North America, Europe, Asia, South America, and Africa, reflecting diverse industrial practices and regulatory frameworks. From these studies, our umbrella review demonstrates that residents living near these facilities face elevated risks related to leukemia, lung and pancreatic cancer, nonmalignant respiratory conditions (such as asthma, cough, wheezing, bronchitis, and rhinitis), chronic kidney disease, and adverse reproductive outcomes. Furthermore, we discuss the key challenges in mitigating these health impacts and outline future directions, including the integration of cleaner technologies, which can significantly reduce harmful emissions; strengthening policy frameworks, emphasizing stringent emission limits, continuous monitoring, and regulatory enforcement; and advancing research on underexplored health outcomes. This review emphasizes the need for coordinated global efforts to align the industry’s evolution with sustainable development goals and climate action strategies to protect the health of vulnerable communities. Full article