1. |
- Arne, Mats, 1954-, et al.
(author)
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Factors associated with good self-rated health and quality of life in subjects with self-reported COPD
- 2011
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In: The International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. - 1176-9106 .- 1178-2005. ; 6, s. 511-519
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Recent guidelines for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) state that COPD is both preventable and treatable. To gain a more positive outlook on the disease it is interesting to investigate factors associated with good, self-rated health and quality of life in subjects with self-reported COPD in the population. Methods: In a cross-sectional study design, postal survey questionnaires were sent to a stratified, random population in Sweden in 2004 and 2008. The prevalence of subjects (40–84 years) who reported having COPD was 2.1% in 2004 and 2.7% in 2008. Data were analyzed for 1475 subjects. Regression models were used to analyze the associations between health measures (general health status, the General Health Questionnaire, the EuroQol five-dimension questionnaire) and influencing factors. Results: The most important factor associated with good, self-rated health and quality of life was level of physical activity. Odds ratios for general health varied from 2.4 to 7.7 depending on degree of physical activity, where subjects with the highest physical activity level reported the best health and also highest quality of life. Social support and absence of economic problems almost doubled the odds ratios for better health and quality of life. Conclusions: In this population-based public health survey, better self-rated health status and quality of life in subjects with self-reported COPD was associated with higher levels of physical activity, social support, and absence of economic problems. The findings indicated that of possible factors that could be influenced, promoting physical activity and strengthening social support are important in maintaining or improving the health and quality of life in subjects with COPD. Severity of the disease as a possible confounding effect should be investigated in future population studies.
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2. |
- Arne, Mats, 1954-, et al.
(author)
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Physical activity and quality of life in subjects with chronic disease : chronic obstructive pulmonary disease compared with rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes mellitus
- 2009
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In: Scandinavian Journal of Primary Health Care. - : Informa UK Limited. - 0281-3432 .- 1502-7724. ; 27:3, s. 141-147
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVE: Chronic diseases interfere with the life situation of the affected person in different ways. The aim was to compare the burden of disease in three chronic diseases - chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), diabetes mellitus (DM) - and in healthy subjects, with a particular interest in physical activity, quality of life, and psychological health. DESIGN: Cross-sectional, observational study. SETTING AND SUBJECTS: Postal survey questionnaire to a stratified, random population of 68 460 subjects aged 18-84 years in Sweden. The subjects included were 40-84 years old (n = 43 589) and data were analysed for COPD (n = 526), RA (n = 1120), DM (n = 2149) and healthy subjects (n = 6960). RESULT: Some 84% of subjects with COPD, 74% (RA), 72% (DM), and 60% in healthy subjects (p < 0.001, COPD versus RA, DM, and healthy subjects) had a physical activity level considered too low to maintain good health according to guidelines. Quality of life (EuroQol five-dimension questionnaire, EQ-5D) was lower in COPD and RA than in DM. Anxiety/depression was more common in subjects with COPD (53%) than in those with RA (48%) and DM (35%) (p < 0.001, COPD versus RA and DM), whereas mobility problems were more common in RA (55%) than COPD (48%) and DM (36%) (p < 0.001, RA versus COPD and DM). All differences between groups remained significant after adjusting for age, sex, and socioeconomic background factors. CONCLUSION: Subjects with chronic diseases had a low level of physical activity, most evident in subjects with COPD. COPD and RA had a higher negative impact on quality of life than DM. Our results indicate that increased attention regarding physical inactivity in subjects with chronic diseases is needed to minimize the burden of disease.
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4. |
- Engström, Gunnar, et al.
(author)
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The Swedish CArdioPulmonary BioImage Study : objectives and design
- 2015
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In: Journal of Internal Medicine. - : Wiley. - 0954-6820 .- 1365-2796. ; 278:6, s. 645-659
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Cardiopulmonary diseases are major causes of death worldwide, but currently recommended strategies for diagnosis and prevention may be outdated because of recent changes in risk factor patterns. The Swedish CArdioPulmonarybioImage Study (SCAPIS) combines the use of new imaging technologies, advances in large-scale 'omics' and epidemiological analyses to extensively characterize a Swedish cohort of 30 000 men and women aged between 50 and 64 years. The information obtained will be used to improve risk prediction of cardiopulmonary diseases and optimize the ability to study disease mechanisms. A comprehensive pilot study in 1111 individuals, which was completed in 2012, demonstrated the feasibility and financial and ethical consequences of SCAPIS. Recruitment to the national, multicentre study has recently started.
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5. |
- Janson, Emma, et al.
(author)
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Insomnia associated with traffic noise and proximity to traffic : a cross-sectional study of the Respiratory Health in Northern Europe III population
- 2020
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In: Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine (JCSM). - : American Academy of Sleep Medicine. - 1550-9389 .- 1550-9397. ; 16:4, s. 545-552
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Study Objectives: Exposure to traffic noise increases the risk of sleeping disturbance, but little is known about the effect of traffic-related air pollution on insomnia symptoms. We aimed to investigate the separate associations of self-reported proximity to traffic and traffic noise with insomnia.Methods: This is a cross-sectional study of the population included in the Respiratory Health in Northern Europe study, consisting of randomly selected men and women born between 1945 and 1973, from 7 Northern European centers. Hearing traffic noise in the bedroom, bedroom window proximity to traffic, and insomnia symptoms were self-reported. Bedroom window proximity to traffic was used as a surrogate for exposure to traffic-related air pollution. The following insomnia symptoms were assessed: difficulty initiating sleep, difficulty maintaining sleep, and early morning awakening.Results: A total of 12,963 individuals was included. Traffic noise was positively associated with all three insomnia symptoms: difficulty initiating sleep (odds ratio [OR] = 3.54; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.85, 6.76), difficulty maintaining sleep (OR = 2.95; 95% CI: 1.62, 5.37), and early morning awakening (OR = 3.25; 95% CI: 1.97, 5.37). Proximity to traffic without disturbing noise was associated with difficulty initiating sleep (OR = 1.62; 95% CI: 1.45, 1.82).Conclusions: This study adds further support to the identification of traffic noise as a risk factor for insomnia. Proximity to traffic without being exposed to noise was associated with an increased risk of difficulty initiating sleep. Our findings indicate that insomnia may be associated with both traffic noise and traffic-related air pollution.
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6. |
- Makowska, J. S., et al.
(author)
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Respiratory hypersensitivity reactions to NSAIDs in Europe: the global allergy and asthma network (GA(2)LEN) survey
- 2016
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In: Allergy. - : Wiley. - 0105-4538 .- 1398-9995. ; 71:11, s. 1603-1611
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BackgroundNonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most prevalent drugs inducing hypersensitivity reactions. The aim of this analysis was to estimate the prevalence of NSAID-induced respiratory symptoms in population across Europe and to assess its association with upper and lower respiratory tract disorders. MethodsThe GA(2)LEN survey was conducted in 22 centers in 15 European countries. Each of 19 centers selected random samples of 5000 adults aged 15-74 from their general population, and in three centers (Athens, Munich, Oslo), a younger population was sampled. Questionnaires including questions about age, gender, presence of symptoms of asthma, allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, smoking status, and history of NSAID-induced hypersensitivity reactions were sent to participants by mail. Totally, 62 737 participants completed the questionnaires. ResultsThe mean prevalence of NSAID-induced dyspnea was 1.9% and was highest in the three Polish centers [Katowice (4.9%), Krakow (4.8%), and Lodz (4.4%)] and lowest in Skopje, (0.9%), Amsterdam (1.1%), and Umea (1.2%). In multivariate analysis, the prevalence of respiratory reactions to NSAIDs was higher in participants with chronic rhinosinusitis symptoms (Odds Ratio 2.12; 95%CI 1.78-2.74), asthma symptoms in last 12 months (2.7; 2.18-3.35), hospitalization due to asthma (1.53; 1.22-1.99), and adults vs children (1.53; 1.24-1.89), but was not associated with allergic rhinitis. ConclusionOur study documented significant variation between European countries in the prevalence of NSAID-induced respiratory hypersensitivity reactions, and association with chronic airway diseases, but also with environmental factors.
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8. |
- Svanes, C., et al.
(author)
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Cohort profile: the multigeneration Respiratory Health in Northern Europe, Spain and Australia (RHINESSA) cohort
- 2022
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In: Bmj Open. - : BMJ. - 2044-6055. ; 12:6
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Purpose The Respiratory Health in Northern Europe, Spain and Australia (RHINESSA) cohort was established to (1) investigate how exposures before conception and in previous generations influence health and disease, particularly allergies and respiratory health, (2) identify susceptible time windows and (3) explore underlying mechanisms. The ultimate aim is to facilitate efficient intervention strategies targeting multiple generations. Participants RHINESSA includes study participants of multiple generations from ten study centres in Norway (1), Denmark (1), Sweden (3), Iceland (1), Estonia (1), Spain (2) and Australia (1). The RHINESSA core cohort, adult offspring generation 3 (G3), was first investigated in 2014-17 in a questionnaire study (N=8818, age 18-53 years) and a clinical study (subsample, n=1405). Their G2 parents participated in the population-based cohorts, European Community Respiratory Heath Survey and Respiratory Health In Northern Europe, followed since the early 1990s when they were 20-44 years old, at 8-10 years intervals. Study protocols are harmonised across generations. Findings to date Collected data include spirometry, skin prick tests, exhaled nitric oxide, anthropometrics, bioimpedance, blood pressure; questionnaire/interview data on respiratory/general/reproductive health, indoor/outdoor environment, smoking, occupation, general characteristics and lifestyle; biobanked blood, urine, gingival fluid, skin swabs; measured specific and total IgE, DNA methylation, sex hormones and oral microbiome. Research results suggest that parental environment years before conception, in particular, father's exposures such as smoking and overweight, may be of key importance for asthma and lung function, and that there is an important susceptibility window in male prepuberty. Statistical analyses developed to approach causal inference suggest that these associations may be causal. DNA methylation studies suggest a mechanism for transfer of father's exposures to offspring health and disease through impact on offspring DNA methylation. Future plans Follow-up is planned at 5-8 years intervals, first in 2021-2023. Linkage with health registries contributes to follow-up of the cohort.
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9. |
- Wieslander, Gunilla, et al.
(author)
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Eating Buckwheat Cookies Is Associated with the Reduction in Serum Levels of Myeloperoxidase and Cholesterol: A Double Blind Crossover Study in Day-Care Centre Staffs
- 2011
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In: Tohoku journal of experimental medicine. - : Tohoku University Medical Press. - 0040-8727 .- 1349-3329. ; 225:2, s. 123-130
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Buckwheat food is a good source of antioxidants, e.g. rutin, and other beneficial substances. Here we investigated the effects of the intake of common buckwheat (low rutin content) and tartary buckwheat cookies (high rutin content) on selected clinical markers. A double blind crossover study was performed among female day-care centre staffs (N = 62) from five day-care centres. Participants were randomly divided into two groups. The first group initially consumed four common buckwheat cookies per day (16.5 mg rutin equivalents/day) for two weeks, while the second group consumed four tartary buckwheat cookies per day (359.7 mg rutin equivalents/day). Then the groups switched their type of cookies and consumed them for another two weeks. We monitored selected clinical markers related to cardiovascular disease and lower airway inflammation, lung function, and subjective breathing difficulties in the staffs. Intake of tartary buckwheat cookies reduced the serum level of myeloperoxidase (MPO) by a factor 0.84 (p = 0.02). When grouping the two types of buckwheat cookies together, there was a reduction of total serum cholesterol (p andlt; 0.001) and HDL-cholesterol (p andlt; 0.001) during the study period, with improved lung vital capacity (p andlt; 0.001). The degree of reduction in total and HDL cholesterol levels was similar in staffs with low and high body mass index (cut off 25). In conclusion, intake of tartary buckwheat cookies with high level of the antioxidant rutin may reduce levels of MPO, an indicator of inflammation. Moreover, intake of both types of buckwheat cookies may lower cholesterol levels.
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10. |
- Zuberbier, T., et al.
(author)
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Proposal of 0.5 mg of protein/100 g of processed food as threshold for voluntary declaration of food allergen traces in processed food-A first step in an initiative to better inform patients and avoid fatal allergic reactions: A GA(2)LEN position paper
- 2022
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In: Allergy. - : Wiley. - 0105-4538 .- 1398-9995. ; 77:6, s. 1736-1750
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Food anaphylaxis is commonly elicited by unintentional ingestion of foods containing the allergen above the tolerance threshold level of the individual. While labeling the 14 main allergens used as ingredients in food products is mandatory in the EU, there is no legal definition of declaring potential contaminants. Precautionary allergen labeling such as "may contain traces of" is often used. However, this is unsatisfactory for consumers as they get no information if the contamination is below their personal threshold. In discussions with the food industry and technologists, it was suggested to use a voluntary declaration indicating that all declared contaminants are below a threshold of 0.5 mg protein per 100 g of food. This concentration is known to be below the threshold of most patients, and it can be technically guaranteed in most food production. However, it was also important to assess that in case of accidental ingestion of contaminants below this threshold by highly allergic patients, no fatal anaphylactic reaction could occur. Therefore, we performed a systematic review to assess whether a fatal reaction to 5mg of protein or less has been reported, assuming that a maximum portion size of 1kg of a processed food exceeds any meal and thus gives a sufficient safety margin. Methods MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched until 24 January 2021 for provocation studies and case reports in which one of the 14 major food allergens was reported to elicit fatal or life-threatening anaphylactic reactions and assessed if these occurred below the ingestion of 5mg of protein. A Delphi process was performed to obtain an expert consensus on the results. Results In the 210 studies included, in our search, no reports of fatal anaphylactic reactions reported below 5 mg protein ingested were identified. However, in provocation studies and case reports, severe reactions below 5 mg were reported for the following allergens: eggs, fish, lupin, milk, nuts, peanuts, soy, and sesame seeds. Conclusion Based on the literature studied for this review, it can be stated that cross-contamination of the 14 major food allergens below 0.5 mg/100 g is likely not to endanger most food allergic patients when a standard portion of food is consumed. We propose to use the statement "this product contains the named allergens in the list of ingredients, it may contain traces of other contaminations (to be named, e.g. nut) at concentrations less than 0.5 mg per 100 g of this product" for a voluntary declaration on processed food packages. This level of avoidance of cross-contaminations can be achieved technically for most processed foods, and the statement would be a clear and helpful message to the consumers. However, it is clearly acknowledged that a voluntary declaration is only a first step to a legally binding solution. For this, further research on threshold levels is encouraged.
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11. |
- Abdalla Omer, Hemn, et al.
(author)
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The role of inflammatory and remodelling biomarkers in patients with non-small cell lung cancer
- 2023
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In: Central European Journal of Immunology. - : Polish Society of Experimental and Clinical Immunology. - 1426-3912 .- 1644-4124. ; 48:4, s. 330-337
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction:Biomarkers play a crucial role in evaluating the prognosis, diagnosis, and monitoringof non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The aim of this study was to compare the levels of inflammatoryand remodelling biomarkers among patients with NSCLC and healthy controls (HCs) and to investigatethe correlation between these biomarkers.Material and methods:Blood samples were taken from 93 NSCLC and 84 HCs. Each sample wasanalysed for the inflammatory biomarkers transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), mothers againstdecapentaplegic homolog 2 (SMAD2) and the remodelling biomarkers Wingless-related integration site(Wnt3a) and β-catenin (CTNN-β1).Results:The patients with NSCLC had significantly higher levels of all the measured biomarkers.In the NSCLC patients, TGF-β1 correlated significantly with SMAD2 (r = 0.34, p = 0.0008), Wnt3a(r = 0.328, p = 0.0013), and CTNN-β1 levels (r = 0.30, p = 0.004). SMAD2 correlated significantlywith CTNN-β1 (r = 0.546, p = 0.0001) and Wnt3a (r = 0.598, p = 0.0001). CTNN-β1 level also correlated with the level of Wnt3a (r = 0.61, p = 0.0001). No correlation was found between biomarkersand symptom scores.Discussion:In this study, patients with NSCLC had higher inflammatory and remodelling biomarker levels than HCs. In the NSCLC, there were significant associations between inflammatory andremodelling biomarkers. This indicates that measuring biomarkers could be valuable in the workupof NSCLC patients.Conclusions:Our investigation showed that inflammatory and remodelling biomarkers might playa role in future immunologic response and pharmacologically targeted NSCLC therapy.
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12. |
- Abozid, Hazim, et al.
(author)
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Prevalence of chronic cough, its risk factors and population attributable risk in the Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) study : a multinational cross-sectional study
- 2024
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In: eClinicalMedicine. - : Elsevier. - 2589-5370. ; 68
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Chronic cough is a common respiratory symptom with an impact on daily activities and quality of life. Global prevalence data are scarce and derive mainly from European and Asian countries and studies with outcomes other than chronic cough. In this study, we aimed to estimate the prevalence of chronic cough across a large number of study sites as well as to identify its main risk factors using a standardised protocol and definition. Methods We analysed cross-sectional data from 33,983 adults (>= 40 years), recruited between Jan 2, 2003 and Dec 26, 2016, in 41 sites (34 countries) from the Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) study. We estimated the prevalence of chronic cough for each site accounting for sampling design. To identify risk factors, we conducted multivariable logistic regression analysis within each site and then pooled estimates using random -effects metaanalysis. We also calculated the population attributable risk (PAR) associated with each of the identifed risk factors. Findings The prevalence of chronic cough varied from 3% in India (rural Pune) to 24% in the United States of America (Lexington,KY). Chronic cough was more common among females, both current and passive smokers, those working in a dusty job, those with a history of tuberculosis, those who were obese, those with a low level of education and those with hypertension or airflow limitation. The most influential risk factors were current smoking and working in a dusty job. Interpretation Our findings suggested that the prevalence of chronic cough varies widely across sites in different world regions. Cigarette smoking and exposure to dust in the workplace are its major risk factors.
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13. |
- Accordini, S., et al.
(author)
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A three-generation study on the association of tobacco smoking with asthma
- 2018
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In: International Journal of Epidemiology. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 0300-5771 .- 1464-3685. ; 47:4, s. 1106-1117
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Mothers' smoking during pregnancy increases asthma risk in their offspring. There is some evidence that grandmothers' smoking may have a similar effect, and biological plausibility that fathers' smoking during adolescence may influence offspring's health through transmittable epigenetic changes in sperm precursor cells. We evaluated the three-generation associations of tobacco smoking with asthma. Methods: Between 2010 and 2013, at the European Community Respiratory Health Survey III clinical interview, 2233 mothers and 1964 fathers from 26 centres reported whether their offspring (aged <= 51 years) had ever had asthma and whether it had coexisted with nasal allergies or not. Mothers and fathers also provided information on their parents' (grandparents) and their own asthma, education and smoking history. Multilevel mediation models within a multicentre three-generation framework were fitted separately within the maternal (4666 offspring) and paternal (4192 offspring) lines. Results: Fathers' smoking before they were 15 [relative risk ratio (RRR) = 1.43, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01-2.01] and mothers' smoking during pregnancy (RRR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.01-1.59) were associated with asthma without nasal allergies in their offspring. Grandmothers' smoking during pregnancy was associated with asthma in their daughters [odds ratio (OR) = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.17-2.06] and with asthma with nasal allergies in their grandchildren within the maternal line (RRR = 1.25, 95% CI: 1.02-1.55). Conclusions: Fathers' smoking during early adolescence and grandmothers' and mothers' smoking during pregnancy may independently increase asthma risk in offspring. Thus, risk factors for asthma should be sought in both parents and before conception.
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16. |
- Accordini, Simone, et al.
(author)
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Incidence trends of airflow obstruction among European adults without asthma : a 20-year cohort study
- 2020
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In: Scientific Reports. - : NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP. - 2045-2322. ; 10:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Investigating COPD trends may help healthcare providers to forecast future disease burden. We estimated sex- and smoking-specific incidence trends of pre-bronchodilator airflow obstruction (AO) among adults without asthma from 11 European countries within a 20-year follow-up (ECRHS and SAPALDIA cohorts). We also quantified the extent of misclassification in the definition based on pre-bronchodilator spirometry (using post-bronchodilator measurements from a subsample of subjects) and we used this information to estimate the incidence of post-bronchodilator AO (AO(post-BD)), which is the primary characteristic of COPD. AO incidence was 4.4 (95% CI: 3.5-5.3) male and 3.8 (3.1-4.6) female cases/1,000/year. Among ever smokers (median pack-years: 20, males; 12, females), AO incidence significantly increased with ageing in men only [incidence rate ratio (IRR), 1-year increase: 1.05 (1.03-1.07)]. A strong exposure-response relationship with smoking was found both in males [IRR, 1-pack-year increase: 1.03 (1.02-1.04)] and females [1.03 (1.02-1.05)]. The positive predictive value of AO for AO(post-BD) was 59.1% (52.0-66.2%) in men and 42.6% (35.1-50.1%) in women. AO(post-BD) incidence was 2.6 (1.7-3.4) male and 1.6 (1.0-2.2) female cases/1,000/year. AO incidence was considerable in Europe and the sex-specific ageing-related increase among ever smokers was strongly related to cumulative tobacco exposure. AO(post-BD) incidence is expected to be half of AO incidence.
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17. |
- Accordini, S., et al.
(author)
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Prenatal and prepubertal exposures to tobacco smoke in men may cause lower lung function in future offspring: a three-generation study using a causal modelling approach
- 2021
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In: European Respiratory Journal. - : European Respiratory Society (ERS). - 0903-1936 .- 1399-3003. ; 58:4
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Mechanistic research suggests that lifestyle and environmental factors impact respiratory health across generations by epigenetic changes transmitted through male germ cells. Evidence from studies on humans is very limited. We investigated multigeneration causal associations to estimate the causal effects of tobacco smoking on lung function within the paternal line. We analysed data from 383 adult offspring (age 18-47 years; 52.0% female) and their 274 fathers, who had participated in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS)/Respiratory Health in Northern Europe, Spain and Australia (RHINESSA) generation study and had provided valid measures of pre-bronchodilator lung function. Two counterfactual-based, multilevel mediation models were developed with: paternal grandmothers' smoking in pregnancy and fathers' smoking initiation in prepuberty as exposures; fathers' forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC), or FEV1/FVC z-scores as potential mediators (proxies of unobserved biological mechanisms that are true mediators); and offspring's FEV1 and FVC, or FEV1/FVC z-scores as outcomes. All effects were summarised as differences (Delta) in expected z-scores related to fathers' and grandmothers' smoking history. Fathers' smoking initiation in prepuberty had a negative direct effect on both offspring's FEV1 (Delta z-score -0.36, 95% CI -0.63--0.10) and FVC (-0.50, 95% CI -0.80--0.20) compared with fathers' never smoking. Paternal grandmothers' smoking in pregnancy had a negative direct effect on fathers' FEV1/FVC -0.57, 95% CI -1.09--0.05) and a negative indirect effect on offspring's FEV1/FVC (-0.12, 95% CI -0.21--0.03) compared with grandmothers' not smoking before fathers' birth nor during fathers' childhood. Fathers' smoking in prepuberty and paternal grandmothers' smoking in pregnancy may cause lower lung function in offspring. Our results support the concept that lifestyle-related exposures during these susceptibility periods influence the health of future generations.
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18. |
- Accordini, Simone, et al.
(author)
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The Cost of Persistent Asthma in Europe : An International Population-Based Study in Adults
- 2013
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In: International Archives of Allergy and Immunology. - : S. Karger AG. - 1018-2438 .- 1423-0097. ; 160:1, s. 93-101
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: This study is aimed at providing a real-world evaluation of the economic cost of persistent asthma among European adults according to the degree of disease control [as defined by the 2006 Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) guidelines]. Methods: A prevalence-based cost-of-illness study was carried out on 462 patients aged 30-54 years with persistent asthma (according to the 2002 GINA definition), who were identified in general population samples from 11 European countries and examined in clinical settings in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey II between 1999 and 2002. The cost estimates were computed from the societal perspective following the bottom-up approach on the basis of rates, wages and prices in 2004 (obtained at the national level from official sources), and were then converted to the 2010 values. Results: The mean total cost per patient was EUR 1,583 and was largely driven by indirect costs (i.e. lost working days and days with limited, not work-related activities 62.5%). The expected total cost in the population aged 30-54 years of the 11 European countries was EUR 4.3 billion (EUR 19.3 billion when extended to the whole European population aged from 15 to 64 years). The mean total cost per patient ranged from EUR 509 (controlled asthma) to EUR 2,281 (uncontrolled disease). Chronic cough or phlegm and having a high BMI significantly increased the individual total cost. Conclusions: Among European adults, the cost of persistent asthma drastically increases as disease control decreases. Therefore, substantial cost savings could be obtained through the proper management of adult patients in Europe.
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19. |
- Accordini, Simone, et al.
(author)
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The Role of Smoking in Allergy and Asthma : Lessons from the ECRHS
- 2012
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In: Current Allergy and Asthma Reports. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1529-7322 .- 1534-6315. ; 12:3, s. 185-191
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The European Community Respiratory Health Survey is an international multicenter cohort study of asthma, allergy, and lung function that began in the early-1990s with recruitment of population-based samples of 20- to 44-year-old adults, mainly in Europe. The aims of the study are broad ranging but include assessment of the role of in utero exposure to tobacco smoke, exposure to environmental tobacco smoke, and active smoking on the incidence, prevalence, and prognosis of allergy and asthma. Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses looking at these associations have been conducted, sometimes only using information collected in one country, and on other occasions using information collected in all the participating centers. This article summarizes the results from these various publications from this large epidemiologic study.
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21. |
- Ahlroth Pind, Caroline, et al.
(author)
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Patient-reported signs of dampness at home may be a risk factor for chronic rhinosinusitis : A cross-sectional study
- 2017
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In: Clinical and Experimental Allergy. - Hoboken : Wiley. - 0954-7894 .- 1365-2222. ; 47:11, s. 1383-1389
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: An association between dampness at home and respiratory conditions has been convincingly demonstrated in children. Fewer studies have been performed in adults, and data are lacking for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). With a prevalence of 10.9% in Europe, CRS imposes a significant burden on quality of life, as well as economy.OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to study CRS and other respiratory conditions in relation to dampness at home in a representative sample of adults.METHODS: The Swedish GA2 LEN questionnaire was answered by 26 577 adults (16-75 years) and included questions on respiratory symptoms, smoking, education and environmental exposure. CRS was defined according to the EP3 OS criteria. Dampness was defined as reporting water damage, floor dampness or visible moulds in the home during the last 12 months. The dampness score was ranked from 0 to 3, counting the number of signs of dampness reported.RESULTS: Dampness at home was reported by 11.3% and was independently related to respiratory conditions after adjustment for demographic and socio-economic factors and smoking: CRS odds ratio (OR) 1.71; allergic rhinitis OR 1.24; current asthma OR 1.21; wheeze OR 1.37; nocturnal dyspnoea OR 1.80; nocturnal coughing OR 1.34; and chronic bronchitis OR 1.64. The risk of CRS and most of the other respiratory conditions was further elevated in subjects reporting multiple signs of dampness.CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study demonstrated an independent association between dampness at home and CRS in adults. The high burden of this and the other respiratory conditions studied is a strong argument in favour of countering indoor dampness by improving building standards.
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22. |
- Ahlroth Pind, Caroline, et al.
(author)
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Pharmacological treatment of asthma in Sweden from 2005 to 2015
- 2024
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In: Journal of Asthma. - : Marcel Dekker. - 0277-0903 .- 1532-4303. ; 61:4, s. 313-321
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVE: Despite access to effective therapies many asthma patients still do not have well-controlled disease. This is possibly related to underuse of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and overuse of short-acting β2-agonists (SABA). Our aim was to investigate longitudinal trends and associated factors in asthma treatment.METHODS: Two separate cohorts of adults with physician-diagnosed asthma were randomly selected from 14 hospitals and 56 primary health centers in Sweden in 2005 (n = 1182) and 2015 (n = 1225). Information about symptoms, maintenance treatment, and use of rescue medication was collected by questionnaires. Associations between treatment and sex, age, smoking, education, body mass index (BMI), physical activity, allergic asthma, and symptom control were analyzed using Pearson's chi2-test. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated using logistic regression.RESULTS: Maintenance treatment with ICS together with long-acting β2-agonists (LABA) and/or montelukast increased from 39.2% to 44.2% (p = 0.012). The use of ICS + LABA as-needed increased (11.1-18.9%, p < 0.001), while SABA use decreased (46.4- 41.8%, p = 0.023). Regular treatment with ICS did not change notably (54.2-57.2%, p = 0.14). Older age, former smoking, and poor symptom control were related to treatment with ICS + LABA/montelukast. In 2015, 22.7% reported daily use of SABA. A higher step of maintenance treatment, older age, obesity, shorter education, current smoking, allergic asthma, low or very high physical activity, and a history of exacerbations were associated with daily SABA use.CONCLUSIONS: The use of ICS + LABA both for maintenance treatment and symptom relief has increased over time. Despite this, the problem of low use of ICS and high use of SABA remains.
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23. |
- Ahmadi, Zainab, et al.
(author)
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Agreement of the modified Medical Research Council and New York Heart Association scales for assessing the impact of self-rated breathlessness in cardiopulmonary disease
- 2022
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In: ERJ Open Research. - : European Respiratory Society. - 2312-0541. ; 8:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: The functional impact of breathlessness is assessed using the modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) scale for chronic respiratory disease and with the New York Heart Association Functional Classification (NYHA) scale for heart failure. We evaluated agreement between the scales and their concurrent validity with other clinically relevant patient-reported outcomes in cardiorespiratory disease.Methods: Outpatients with stable chronic respiratory disease or heart failure were recruited. Agreement between the mMRC and NYHA scales was analysed using Cramér's V and Kendall's tau B tests. Concurrent validity was evaluated using correlations with clinically relevant measures of breathlessness, anxiety, depression, and health-related quality of life. Analyses were conducted for all participants and separately in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart failure.Results: In a total of 182 participants with cardiorespiratory disease, the agreement between the mMRC and NYHA scales was moderate (Cramér's V: 0.46; Kendall's tau B: 0.57) with similar results for COPD (Cramér's V: 0.46; Kendall's tau B: 0.66) and heart failure (Cramér's V: 0.46; Kendall's tau B: 0.67). In the total population, the scales correlated in similar ways to other patient-reported outcomes.Conclusion: In outpatients with cardiorespiratory disease, the mMRC and NYHA scales show moderate to strong correlations and similar associations with other patient-reported outcomes. This supports that the scales are comparable when assessing the impact of breathlessness on function and patient-reported outcomes.
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24. |
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25. |
- Ahmadi, Zainab, et al.
(author)
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End-of-life care in oxygen-dependent ILD compared with lung cancer : a national population-based study
- 2016
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In: Thorax. - : BMJ. - 0040-6376 .- 1468-3296. ; 71:6, s. 510-516
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Rationale: Advanced fibrosing interstitial lung disease (ILD) is often progressive and associated with a high burden of symptoms and poor prognosis. Little is known about the symptom prevalence and access to palliative care services at end of life (EOL).Objectives: Compare prevalence of symptoms and palliative treatments between patients dying with oxygen-dependent ILD and patients dying of lung cancer.Methods: Nationwide registry-based cohort study of patients with oxygen-dependent ILD and patients with lung cancer who died between 1 January 2011 and 14 October 2013. Prevalence of symptoms and treatments during the last seven days of life were compared using data in Swedish Registry of Palliative Care.Measurements and main results: 285 patients with ILD and 10 822 with lung cancer were included. In ILD, death was more likely to be 'unexpected' (15% vs 4%), less likely to occur in a palliative care setting (17% vs 40%) and EOL discussions with the patients (41% vs 59%) were less common than in lung cancer. Patients with ILD suffered more from breathlessness (75% vs 42%) while patients with lung cancer had more pain (51% vs 73%) (p<0.005 for all comparisons). Patients with ILD had more unrelieved breathlessness, pain and anxiety. The survival time from initiation of oxygen therapy in ILD was a median 8.4 months (IQR 3.4-19.2 months).Conclusions: Patients with ILD receive poorer access to specialist EOL care services and experience more breathlessness than patients with lung cancer. This study highlights the need of better EOL care in oxygen-dependent ILD.
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26. |
- Al-Shamkhi, Nasrin, et al.
(author)
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Important non-disease-related determinants of exhaled nitric oxide levels in mild asthma – results from the Swedish GA2LEN study
- 2016
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In: Clinical and Experimental Allergy. - : Wiley. - 0954-7894 .- 1365-2222. ; 46:9, s. 1185-1193
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) has a potential clinical role in asthma management. Constitutive factors such as age, height and gender, as well as individual characteristics, such as IgE sensitization and smoking, affect the levels of FeNO in population-based studies. However, their effect on FeNO in subjects with asthma has been scarcely studied. Objective: To study the effects on FeNO of these commonly regarded determinants, as demonstrated in healthy subjects, as well as menarche age and parental smoking, in a population of asthmatics. Material and Methods: Fractional exhaled nitric oxide was measured in 557 subjects with asthma from the Swedish GA2LEN study. Allergic sensitization was assessed by skin prick tests to most common aeroallergens. Upper airway comorbidities, smoking habits, smoking exposure during childhood and hormonal status (for women) were questionnaire-assessed. Results: Male gender (P < 0.001), greater height (P < 0.001) and sensitization to both perennial allergens and pollen (P < 0.001) are related to higher FeNO levels. Current smoking (P < 0.001) and having both parents smoking during childhood, vs. having neither (P < 0.001) or only one parent smoking (P = 0.002), are related to lower FeNO. Women with menarche between 9 and 11 years of age had lower FeNO than those with menarche between 12 and 14 years of age (P = 0.03) or 15 and 17 years of age (P = 0.003). Conclusions and Clinical relevance: Interpreting FeNO levels in clinical practice is complex, and constitutional determinants, as well as smoking and IgE sensitisation, are of importance in asthmatic subjects and should be accounted for when interpreting FeNO levels. Furthermore, menarche age and parental smoking during childhood and their effects on lowering FeNO deserve further studies. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd
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27. |
- Ali, Kosar M., et al.
(author)
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Biomarkers of type 2 and non-type 2 inflammation in asthma exacerbations
- 2024
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In: Central European Journal of Immunology. - : Termedia. - 1426-3912 .- 1644-4124. ; 49:2, s. 1-11
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction: in adult-onset asthma, two major endotypes have been proposed: t2 with eosinophilia and non-t2 characterised by neutrophils and interleukin (il)-17. the objective of the study was to exam-ine the endotype marker profile in patients with severe asthma who were hospitalized for exacerbations, with a focus on differentiating between viral and non-viral triggers.Material and methods: Forty-nine patients with asthma, admitted for exacerbations, and 51 healthy controls (hCs) were recruited. We further categorized the exacerbated asthma patients into two groups: non-viral infected (n = 38) and viral infected (n = 11) groups. Blood was drawn and a nasopharyngeal swab taken at the time of admission and eosinophil numbers, eosinophil cationic protein (eCP), immuno- globulin e (ige), tryptase and viral infection were determined. additionally, levels of il-17, il-33 and il-31 were assessed.Results: the majority of patients had adult onset asthma (age of diagnosis, 42.8 ±16.1) with a du-ration of 7.7 ±10.8 years, 24.5% being atopic. Patients had higher levels of eosinophils, eCP and ige than healthy controls (eosinophils, p = 0.003; eCP and ige, p = 0.0001). immunohistochem-istry confirmed eosinophils as a source of eCP. tryptase (p = 0.0001), il-17 (p = 0.0005), il-31 (p = 0.0001) and il-33 (p = 0.0002) were also higher in patients than controls. eCP correlated with tryptase (r = 0.08, p = 0.62). il-17 showed the best correlation with other mediators, including eCP (r = 0.35, p = 0.24), tryptase (r = 0.69, p = 0.0001), ige (r = 0.50, p = 0.0001), il-33 (r = 0.95, p = 0.0001) and il-31 (r = 0.89, p = 0.0001). ige, il-17, and il-31 had a high auC when differentiating those with severe and non-severe asthma. the group with exacerbated viral infection showed elevated levels of serum il-17 and il-31 compared to the non-infected group.Conclusions: Patients with asthmatic exacerbations were found to have higher levels of both t2 and non-t2 inflammatory markers than healthy controls. in the study, levels of ige, il-17, and il-31 differentiated between patients with severe and non-severe asthma. the last two cytokines were also able to distinguish between exacerbated asthma caused by viral infection and exacerbated asthma caused by non-viral infection.
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28. |
- Ali, M. A. E., et al.
(author)
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Antimicrobial potential of Saccharomyces boulardii extracts and fractions
- 2012
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In: Journal of Applied Sciences Research. - 1816-157X .- 1819-544X. ; 8:8, s. 4537-4543
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Different extracts of viable therapeutic Saccharomyces boulardii cells were evaluated for their antimicrobial activities against Escherichia coli and Candida albicans. Water, methanol, isopropanol, n-butanol and ethanol were used as solvents for extraction. Ethanol-extract exhibited the highest antimicrobial activity towards both strains, followed by water-extract. No antimicrobial activity could be detected on testing methanol-extract towards both strains. Ethanol- and water-extracts, cells remaining after water and ethanol extraction and broth were also tested for their antimicrobial activities against Gram-positive, Gram-negative, non-filamentous and filamentous fungi and showed considerable amounts of antimicrobial activities. Ethanol extracts exhibited the highest antimicrobial activity against all the tested strains, was then fractionated on a Sephadex G-100 column and the obtained fractions were examined using the agar-well diffusion method against Staphylococcus aureus, E.coli, C. albicans and Aspergillus niger. Results obtained indicate the presence of different scattered active fractions with different potencies against the four tested microorganisms. A large scale fermentation process was conducted using a BioFlo benchtop-15L Fermentor/ Bioreactor and the products were evaluated for their antimicrobial activities.
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29. |
- Alimohammadi, Mohammad, et al.
(author)
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Pulmonary Autoimmunity as a Feature of Autoimmune Polyendocrine Syndrome Type 1 and Identification of KCNRG as a Bronchial Autoantigen
- 2009
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In: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. - : Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. - 0027-8424 .- 1091-6490. ; 106:11, s. 4396-4401
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Patients with autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome type 1 (APS-1) suffer from multiple organ-specific autoimmunity with autoantibodies against target tissue-specific autoantigens. Endocrine and nonendocrine organs such as skin, hair follicles, and liver are targeted by the immune system. Despite sporadic observations of pulmonary symptoms among APS-1 patients, an autoimmune mechanism for pulmonary involvement has not been elucidated. We report here on a subset of APS-1 patients with respiratory symptoms. Eight patients with pulmonary involvement were identified. Severe airway obstruction was found in 4 patients, leading to death in 2. Immunoscreening of a cDNA library using serum samples from a patient with APS-1 and obstructive respiratory symptoms identified a putative potassium channel regulator (KCNRG) as a pulmonary autoantigen. Reactivity to recombinant KCNRG was assessed in 110 APS-1 patients by using immunoprecipitation. Autoantibodies to KCNRG were present in 7 of the 8 patients with respiratory symptoms, but in only 1 of 102 APS-1 patients without respiratory symptoms. Expression of KCNRG messenger RNA and protein was found to be predominantly restricted to the epithelial cells of terminal bronchioles. Autoantibodies to KCNRG, a protein mainly expressed in bronchial epithelium, are strongly associated with pulmonary involvement in APS-1. These findings may facilitate the recognition, diagnosis, characterization, and understanding of the pulmonary manifestations of APS-1.
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30. |
- Alvarado-Vazquez, Perla Abigail, et al.
(author)
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Circulating mast cell progenitors increase in frequency during natural birch pollen exposure in allergic asthma patients
- 2023
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In: Allergy. European Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. - : John Wiley & Sons. - 0105-4538 .- 1398-9995. ; 78:11, s. 2959-2968
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Mast cells (MCs) develop from a rare population of peripheral blood circulating MC progenitors (MCps). Here, we investigated whether the frequency of circulating MCps is altered in asthma patients sensitized to birch pollen during pollen season, compared to out of season.Methods: Asthma patients were examined during birch pollen season in late April to early June (May), and out of season in November–January. Spirometry measurements, asthma and allergy-related symptoms, asthma control questionnaire (ACQ), and asthma control test (ACT) scores were assessed at both time points. The MCp frequency was determined by flow cytometry in ficoll-separated blood samples from patients with positive birch pollen-specific IgE, and analyzed in relation to basic and disease parameters.Results: The frequency of MCps per liter of blood was higher in May than in November (p = .004), particularly in women (p = .009). Patients that reported moderate to severe asthma symptoms (<.0001), nose or eye symptoms (p = .02; p = .01), or reduced asthma control (higher ACQ, p = .01) had higher MCp frequency in May than those that did not report this. These associations remained significant after adjusting for sex and BMI. The change in asthma control to a lower ACT score in May correlated with an increase in MCp frequency in May (p = .006, rho = 0.46).Conclusions: The data suggest that the frequency of MCps increases in symptomatic patients with allergic asthma. Our results unravel a link between asthma symptoms and circulating MCps, and bring new insight into the impact of natural allergen exposure on the expansion of MCs.
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31. |
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32. |
- Amaral, A. F. S., et al.
(author)
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Changes in IgE sensitization and total IgE levels over 20 years of follow-up
- 2016
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In: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. - : Elsevier BV. - 0091-6749 .- 1097-6825. ; 137:6
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Cross-sectional studies have reported a lower prevalence of sensitization in older adults, but few longitudinal studies have examined whether this is an aging or a year-of-birth cohort effect. Objective We sought to assess changes in sensitization and total IgE levels in a cohort of European adults as they aged over a 20-year period. Methods Levels of serum specific IgE to common aeroallergens (house dust mite, cat, and grass) and total IgE levels were measured in 3206 adults from 25 centers in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey on 3 occasions over 20 years. Changes in sensitization and total IgE levels were analyzed by using regression analysis corrected for potential differences in laboratory equipment and by using inverse sampling probability weights to account for nonresponse. Results Over the 20-year follow-up, the prevalence of sensitization to at least 1 of the 3 allergens decreased from 29.4% to 24.8% (-4.6%; 95% CI, -7.0% to -2.1%). The prevalence of sensitization to house dust mite (-4.3%; 95% CI, -6.0% to -2.6%) and cat (-2.1%; 95% CI, -3.6% to -0.7%) decreased more than sensitization to grass (-0.6%; 95% CI, -2.5% to 1.3%). Age-specific prevalence of sensitization to house dust mite and cat did not differ between year-of-birth cohorts, but sensitization to grass was most prevalent in the most recent ones. Overall, total IgE levels decreased significantly (geometric mean ratio, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.58-0.68) at all ages in all year-of-birth cohorts. Conclusion Aging was associated with lower levels of sensitization, especially to house dust mite and cat, after the age of 20 years. © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier, Inc. on behalf ofthe American Academy of Allergy, Asthma&Immunology. This is an open access article under the CC BY license.
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33. |
- Amaral, Andre F. S., et al.
(author)
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Chronic airflow obstruction and ambient particulate air pollution
- 2021
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In: Thorax. - : BMJ Publishing Group Ltd. - 0040-6376 .- 1468-3296. ; 76:12, s. 1236-1241
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Smoking is the most well-established cause of chronic airflow obstruction (CAO) but particulate air pollution and poverty have also been implicated. We regressed sex-specific prevalence of CAO from 41 Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease study sites against smoking prevalence from the same study, the gross national income per capita and the local annual mean level of ambient particulate matter (PM2.5) using negative binomial regression. The prevalence of CAO was not independently associated with PM2.5 but was strongly associated with smoking and was also associated with poverty. Strengthening tobacco control and improved understanding of the link between CAO and poverty should be prioritised.
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34. |
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35. |
- Amaral, Andre F. S., et al.
(author)
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Interaction between gas cooking and GSTM1 null genotype in bronchial responsiveness : results from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey
- 2014
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In: Thorax. - : BMJ. - 0040-6376 .- 1468-3296. ; 69:6, s. 558-564
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Increased bronchial responsiveness is characteristic of asthma. Gas cooking, which is a major indoor source of the highly oxidant nitrogen dioxide, has been associated with respiratory symptoms and reduced lung function. However, little is known about the effect of gas cooking on bronchial responsiveness and on how this relationship may be modified by variants in the genes GSTM1, GSTT1 and GSTP1, which influence antioxidant defences. Methods The study was performed in subjects with forced expiratory volume in one second at least 70% of predicted who took part in the multicentre European Community Respiratory Health Survey, had bronchial responsiveness assessed by methacholine challenge and had been genotyped for GSTM1, GSTT1 and GSTP1-rs1695. Information on the use of gas for cooking was obtained from interviewer-led questionnaires. Effect modification by genotype on the association between the use of gas for cooking and bronchial responsiveness was assessed within each participating country, and estimates combined using meta-analysis. Results Overall, gas cooking, as compared with cooking with electricity, was not associated with bronchial responsiveness (beta=-0.08, 95% CI -0.40 to 0.25, p=0.648). However, GSTM1 significantly modified this effect (beta for interaction=-0.75, 95% CI - 1.16 to -0.33, p=4x10(-4)), with GSTM1 null subjects showing more responsiveness if they cooked with gas. No effect modification by GSTT1 or GSTP1-rs1695 genotypes was observed. Conclusions Increased bronchial responsiveness was associated with gas cooking among subjects with the GSTM1 null genotype. This may reflect the oxidant effects on the bronchi of exposure to nitrogen dioxide.
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36. |
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37. |
- Amaral, A F S, et al.
(author)
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The locus C11orf30 increases susceptibility to poly-sensitization
- 2015
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In: Allergy. European Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. - : Wiley. - 0105-4538 .- 1398-9995. ; 70:3, s. 328-333
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- A number of genetic variants have been associated with allergic sensitization, but whether these are allergen specific or increase susceptibility to poly-sensitization is unknown. Using data from the large multicentre population-based European Community Respiratory Health Survey, we assessed the association between 10 loci and specific IgE and skin prick tests to individual allergens and poly-sensitization. We found that the 10 loci associate with sensitization to different allergens in a nonspecific manner and that one in particular, C11orf30-rs2155219, doubles the risk of poly-sensitization (specific IgE/4 allergens: OR = 1.81, 95% CI 0.80-4.24; skin prick test/4+ allergens: OR = 2.27, 95% CI 1.34-3.95). The association of rs2155219 with higher levels of expression of C11orf30, which may be involved in transcription repression of interferon-stimulated genes, and its association with sensitization to multiple allergens suggest that this locus is highly relevant for atopy.
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38. |
- Amaral, Andre F. S., et al.
(author)
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Tuberculosis associates with both airflow obstruction and low lung function : BOLD results
- 2015
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In: European Respiratory Journal. - : European Respiratory Society (ERS). - 0903-1936 .- 1399-3003. ; 46:4, s. 1104-1112
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In small studies and cases series, a history of tuberculosis has been associated with both airflow obstruction, which is characteristic of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and restrictive patterns on spirometry. The objective of the present study was to assess the association between a history of tuberculosis and airflow obstruction and spirometric abnormalities in adults. The study was performed in adults, aged 40 years and above, who took part in the multicentre, cross-sectional, general population-based Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease study, and had provided acceptable post-bronchodilator spirometry measurements and information on a history of tuberculosis. The associations between a history of tuberculosis and airflow obstruction and spirometric restriction were assessed within each participating centre, and estimates combined using meta-analysis. These estimates were stratified by high- and low/middle-income countries, according to gross national income. A self-reported history of tuberculosis was associated with airflow obstruction (adjusted odds ratio 2.51, 95% CI 1.83-3.42) and spirometric restriction (adjusted odds ratio 2.13, 95% CI 1.42-3.19). A history of tuberculosis was associated with both airflow obstruction and spirometric restriction, and should be considered as a potentially important cause of obstructive disease and low lung function, particularly where tuberculosis is common.
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39. |
- Amaral, Rita, et al.
(author)
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Comparison of hypothesis- and data-driven asthma phenotypes in NHANES 2007-2012 : the importance of comprehensive data availability
- 2019
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In: Clinical and Translational Allergy. - : Wiley. - 2045-7022. ; 9
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BackgroundHalf of the adults with current asthma among the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) participants could be classified in more than one hypothesis-driven phenotype. A data-driven approach applied to the same subjects may allow a more useful classification compared to the hypothesis-driven one.AimTo compare previously defined hypothesis-driven with newly derived data-driven asthma phenotypes, identified by latent class analysis (LCA), in adults with current asthma from NHANES 2007-2012.MethodsAdults (18years) with current asthma from the NHANES were included (n=1059). LCA included variables commonly used to subdivide asthma. LCA models were derived independently according to age groups: <40 and 40years old.ResultsTwo data-driven phenotypes were identified among adults with current asthma, for both age groups. The proportions of the hypothesis-driven phenotypes were similar among the two data-driven phenotypes (p>0.05). Class A <40years (n=285; 75%) and Class A 40years (n=462; 73%), respectively, were characterized by a predominance of highly symptomatic asthma subjects with poor lung function, compared to Class B <40years (n=94; 25%) and Class B 40years (n=170; 27%). Inflammatory biomarkers, smoking status, presence of obesity and hay fever did not markedly differ between the phenotypes.ConclusionBoth data- and hypothesis-driven approaches using clinical and physiological variables commonly used to characterize asthma are suboptimal to identify asthma phenotypes among adults from the general population. Further studies based on more comprehensive disease features are required to identify asthma phenotypes in population-based studies.
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40. |
- Amaral, Rita, et al.
(author)
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Having concomitant asthma phenotypes is common and independently relates to poor lung function in NHANES 2007-2012
- 2018
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In: Clinical and Translational Allergy. - : BIOMED CENTRAL LTD. - 2045-7022. ; 8
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Evidence for distinct asthma phenotypes and their overlap is becoming increasingly relevant to identify personalized and targeted therapeutic strategies. In this study, we aimed to describe the overlap of five commonly reported asthma phenotypes in US adults with current asthma and assess its association with asthma outcomes. Methods: Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) 2007-2012 were used (n =30,442). Adults with current asthma were selected. Asthma phenotypes were: B-Eos-high [if blood eosinophils (B-Eos) >= 300/mm(3)]; FeNO-high (FeNO >= 35 ppb); B-Eos&FeNO-low (B-Eos < 150/mm(3) and FeNO < 20 ppb); asthma with obesity (AwObesity) (BMI >= 30 kg/m(2)); and asthma with concurrent COPD. Data were weighted for the US population and analyses were stratified by age (< 40 and >= 40 years old). Results: Of the 18,619 adults included, 1059 (5.6% [95% CI 5.1-5.9]) had current asthma. A substantial overlap was observed both in subjects aged < 40 years (44%) and >= 40 years (54%). The more prevalent specific overlaps in both age groups were AwObesity associated with either B-Eos-high (15 and 12%, respectively) or B-Eos&FeNO-low asthma (13 and 11%, respectively). About 14% of the current asthma patients were"non-classified". Regardless of phenotype classification, having concomitant phenotypes was significantly associated with (adjusted OR, 95% CI) >= 2 controller medications (2.03, 1.16-3.57), and FEV1 < LLN (3.21, 1.74-5.94), adjusted for confounding variables. Conclusions: A prevalent overlap of commonly reported asthma phenotypes was observed among asthma patients from the general population, with implications for objective asthma outcomes. A broader approach may be required to better characterize asthma patients and prevent poor asthma outcomes.
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41. |
- Amaral, Rita, et al.
(author)
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The influence of individual characteristics and non-respiratory diseases on blood eosinophil count
- 2021
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In: Clinical and Translational Allergy. - : John Wiley & Sons. - 2045-7022. ; 11:4
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BackgroundBlood eosinophil (B-Eos) count is an emerging biomarker in the management of respiratory disease but determinants of B-Eos count besides respiratory disease are poorly described. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the influence of non-respiratory diseases on B-Eos count, in comparison to the effect on two other biomarkers: fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) and C-reactive protein (CRP), and to identify individual characteristics associated with B-Eos count in healthy controls.MethodsChildren/adolescents (<18 years) and adults with complete B-Eos data from the US National Health and Nutritional Examination Surveys 2005–2016 were included, and they were divided into having respiratory diseases (n = 3333 and n = 7,894, respectively) or not having respiratory disease (n = 8944 and n = 15,010, respectively). After excluding any respiratory disease, the association between B-Eos count, FeNO or CRP, and non-respiratory diseases was analyzed in multivariate models and multicollinearity was tested. After excluding also non-respiratory diseases independently associated with B-Eos count (giving healthy controls; 8944 children/adolescents and 5667 adults), the independent association between individual characteristics and B-Eos count was analyzed.ResultsIn adults, metabolic syndrome, heart disease or stroke was independently associated with higher B-Eos count (12%, 13%, and 15%, respectively), whereas no associations were found with FeNO or CRP. In healthy controls, male sex or being obese was associated with higher B-Eos counts, both in children/adolescents (15% and 3% higher, respectively) and adults (14% and 19% higher, respectively) (p < 0.01 all). A significant influence of race/ethnicity was also noted, and current smokers had 17% higher B-Eos count than never smokers (p < 0.001).ConclusionsNon-respiratory diseases influence B-Eos count but not FeNO or CRP. Male sex, obesity, certain races/ethnicities, and current smoking are individual characteristics or exposures that are associated with higher B-Eos counts. All these factors should be considered when using B-Eos count in the management of respiratory disease.
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42. |
- Amid Hägg, Shadi, et al.
(author)
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Nocturnal gastroesophageal reflux increases the risk of daytime sleepiness in women
- 2019
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In: Sleep Medicine. - : Elsevier BV. - 1389-9457 .- 1878-5506. ; 53, s. 94-100
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVE: Daytime sleepiness is common in women and has negative health effects. Nocturnal gastroesophageal reflux (nGER) and snoring are risk factors for daytime sleepiness, but the effect of their interaction remains unknown. The aim of this study was to examine how nGER and snoring combined affected daytime sleepiness and involuntary falling asleep in women.METHODS: A questionnaire was sent to randomly selected women in 2000 and 2010. Participants who answered questions regarding both nGER and snoring in both questionnaires were included (N = 4882). Daytime sleepiness was defined as severe or very severe problems with daytime sleepiness. Involuntary falling asleep was defined as sometimes, often or very often falling asleep involuntarily during the day. Respondents snoring loudly and disturbingly sometimes, often or very often were defined as snorers. Having nocturnal heartburn or acid reflux sometimes, often or very often was defined as having nGER.RESULTS: Daytime sleepiness was reported by 14% of the participants, involuntary falling asleep by 11%. After adjustment for age, smoking, physical activity, caffeine intake and alcohol dependency, increased odd ratios (ORs) for both daytime sleepiness (adjusted OR 4.2, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.9-9.2) and involuntary falling asleep (adjusted OR 3.1, 95% CI: 1.5-6.4) were seen in women with the combination of nGER and snoring at both baseline and follow-up. The association with daytime sleepiness was also strong for those with only persistent nGER but not for those with only persistent snoring.CONCLUSION: Women with nGER were at increased risk of developing daytime sleepiness and snoring augmented this association. In addition, women with both nGER and snoring were also at increased risk of developing involuntary falling asleep.
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43. |
- Amid Hägg, Shadi, et al.
(author)
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Smokers with insomnia symptoms are less likely to stop smoking
- 2020
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In: Respiratory Medicine. - : Elsevier BV. - 0954-6111 .- 1532-3064. ; 170
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives: Smoking is associated with sleep disturbances. The aim of this study was to analyze whether sleep disturbances are predictors of smoking cessation and whether continued smoking is associated with the development of sleep disturbances. Methods: A questionnaire was sent to randomly selected men and women in Northern Europe in 1999-2001 (RHINE II) and was followed up by a questionnaire in 2010-2012 (RHINE III). The study population consisted of 2568 participants who were smokers at baseline and provided data on smoking at follow-up. Insomnia symptoms were defined as having difficulty initiating and/or maintaining sleep and/or early morning awakening >= 3 nights/week. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to calculate odds ratios (OR). Results: Subjects with difficulty initiating sleep (adjusted odds ratio; 95% confidence interval: 0.6; 0.4-0.8), difficulty maintaining sleep (0.7; 0.5-0.9), early morning awakening (0.6; 0.4-0.8), any insomnia symptom (0.6; 0.5-0.8) or excessive daytime sleepiness (0.7; 0.5-0.8) were less likely to achieve long-term smoking cessation after adjustment for age, BMI, pack-years, hypertension, diabetes, chronic bronchitis, rhinitis, asthma, gender and BMI difference. There was no significant association between snoring and smoking cessation. In subjects without sleep disturbance at baseline, continued smoking increased the risk of developing difficulty initiating sleep during the follow-up period compared with those that had quit smoking (adj. OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.2-2.3). Conclusions: Insomnia symptoms and excessive daytime sleepiness negatively predict smoking cessation. Smoking is a risk factor for the development of difficulty initiating sleep. Treatment for sleep disturbances should be included in smoking-cessation programs.
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44. |
- Amid Hägg, Shadi, et al.
(author)
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The negative health effects of having a combination of snoring and insomnia
- 2022
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In: JOURNAL OF CLINICAL SLEEP MEDICINE. - : American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM). - 1550-9389 .- 1550-9397. ; 18:4, s. 973-981
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Study Objectives: Insomnia and snoring are common sleep disorders. The aim was to investigate the association of having a combination of insomnia symptoms and snoring with comorbidity and daytime sleepiness. Methods: The study population comprised 25,901 participants (16-75 years, 54.4% women) from 4 Swedish cities, who answered a postal questionnaire that contained questions on snoring, insomnia symptoms (difficulties initiating and/or maintaining sleep and/or early morning awakening), smoking, educational level, and respiratory and nonrespiratory disorders. Results: Snoring was reported by 4,221 (16.2%), while 9,872 (38.1%) reported 1 insomnia symptom. A total of 2,150 (8.3%) participants reported both insomnia symptoms and snoring. The association with hypertension (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 1.4; 95% confidence interval [Cl], 1.2-1.6), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (adjusted OR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.3-2.4), asthma (adjusted OR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.6-2.3), daytime sleepiness (adjusted OR, 7.9; 95% CI, 7.1-8.8), and the use of hypnotics (adjusted OR, 7.5; 95% CI, 6.1-9.1) was highest for the group with both insomnia symptoms and snoring. Conclusions: Participants with both snoring and insomnia run an increased risk of hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, daytime sleepiness, and use of hypnotics. It is important to consider snoring in patients seeking medical assistance for insomnia and, vice versa, in patients with snoring inquiring about insomnia.
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45. |
- Amin, H., et al.
(author)
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Indoor Airborne Microbiome and Endotoxin: Meteorological Events and Occupant Characteristics Are Important Determinants
- 2023
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In: Environmental Science and Technology. - : American Chemical Society (ACS). - 0013-936X .- 1520-5851. ; 57:32, s. 11750-11766
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Minimal research exists onthe factors influencing the indoorbacterial community. Despite their proposed importance for health,here we report environmental factors influencing the composition ofthe indoor bacterial communities. Airborne bacteria and endotoxin may affect asthma andallergies.However, there is limited understanding of the environmental determinantsthat influence them. This study investigated the airborne microbiomesin the homes of 1038 participants from five cities in Northern Europe:Aarhus, Bergen, Reykjavik, Tartu, and Uppsala. Airborne dust particleswere sampled with electrostatic dust fall collectors (EDCs) from theparticipants' bedrooms. The dust washed from the EDCs'clothes was used to extract DNA and endotoxin. The DNA extracts wereused for quantitative polymerase chain (qPCR) measurement and 16SrRNA gene sequencing, while endotoxin was measured using the kineticchromogenic limulus amoebocyte lysate (LAL) assay. The results showedthat households in Tartu and Aarhus had a higher bacterial load anddiversity than those in Bergen and Reykjavik, possibly due to elevatedconcentrations of outdoor bacterial taxa associated with low precipitationand high wind speeds. Bergen-Tartu had the highest difference (ANOSIM R = 0.203) in & beta; diversity. Multivariate regressionmodels showed that & alpha; diversity indices and bacterial and endotoxinloads were positively associated with the occupants' age, numberof occupants, cleaning frequency, presence of dogs, and age of thehouse. Further studies are needed to understand how meteorologicalfactors influence the indoor bacterial community in light of climatechange.
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46. |
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47. |
- Amin, Kawa, et al.
(author)
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Evidence for eosinophil and IL-17 mediated inflammation in allergic rhinitis
- 2020
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In: Clinical and Molecular Allergy. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1476-7961. ; 18
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: The aim was to determine the level of inflammatory cytokines, eosinophil cationic protein and IgE in allergic rhinitis (AR) patients.Subjects and methods: Blood samples were taken from 88 AR patients and 88 healthy controls (HC). Each sample was analysed for eosinophil counts by flow cytometry, IgE by ECLIA, ECP, IL-17, and IL-33 by using ELISA test.Results: There was no significant difference between AR patients and the control group in age and gender. Levels of eosinophils, IgE, ECP, IL-17, IL-33 and the total symptom scores were significantly higher in AR patients than the HC (P = 0.0001). Serum ECP correlated with IL-17 (P = 0.041, r = 0.42), IL-33 (P = 0.0001, r = 080), and IgE levels (P = 0.017, r = 0.45) in the R patients. There was no correlation between IL-17 and IL-33. There was a correlation between symptom scores and eosinophils (P = 0.026, r = 0.52), and IgE (P = 0.001, r = 0.60) in the patients. No correlation was observed between symptom scores and ECP, IL-17, and IL-33 in the AR patient.Conclusions: Patients with AR have significant higher serum levels of ECP, IL-17, and IL-33 than healthy controls. This indicates that these markers could be used to in order to diagnose AR and to monitor disease. Inhibitory molecules to IL-17 and IL-33 may be considered as novel treatment strategies.
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48. |
- Amin, Kawa, et al.
(author)
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Inflammation and structural changes in the airways of patients with atopicand nonatopic asthma : BHR group
- 2000
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In: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. - 1073-449X .- 1535-4970. ; 162:6, s. 2295-2301
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The aim of the present study was to compare the cellular pattern and structural changes in the airway walls of atopic and nonatopic patients with asthma. Bronchial biopsy specimens were obtained from 13 atopic subjects with asthma, nine nonatopic patients with asthma, and seven healthy control subjects and investigated using immunohistochemical methods. The number of eosinophils increased in both asthma groups, but significantly more in the atopic group. The number of mast cells increased similarly in the two asthma groups, whereas the number of neutrophils increased only in the nonatopic asthma group. The number of T-lymphocytes (CD3-, CD4-, CD8-, CD-25-positive cells) was higher in patients with atopic asthma compared with nonatopic asthma. Interleukin-4 (IL-4) and IL-5-positive cells were more frequently found in the atopic asthma group, whereas cells staining for IL-8 were more frequent in the nonatopic group. The degree of epithelial damage was significantly higher in the atopic asthma group compared with the control subjects and the nonatopic asthmatics. The tenascin and laminin layer was significantly thicker in the atopic group compared with the group of nonatopic asthmatics. In the atopic group, there was a significant negative correlation between epithelial integrity (defined as the relative length of intact epithelium) and the eosinophil count and also between the number of CD25-positive cells and epithelial integrity. The number of mast cells correlated positively with the thickness of tenascin- and laminin-positive layers. In conclusion, we provide evidence of different patterns of involvement of inflammatory cells in atopic and nonatopic patients with asthma. There were also structural differences in the bronchial mucous membrane between atopic asthma and nonatopic asthma. This suggests that there are differences in the extent of the immunopathologic response of these clinically distinct forms of asthma.
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49. |
- Amin, Kawa, et al.
(author)
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Inflammation and structural changes in the airways of patients with primary Sjogren's syndrome
- 2001
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In: Respiratory Medicine. - : Elsevier BV. - 0954-6111 .- 1532-3064. ; 95:11, s. 904-910
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The present study aimed to compare the cellular pattern and structural changes in the airways of patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) with healthy controls. Bronchial biopsy specimens were obtained from seven subjects with pSS and seven healthy controls. All the patients with pSS had increased bronchial responsiveness to methacholine. In the biopsies inflammatory cells, cytokine-producing cells, tenascin and laminin were visual zed by immunostaining. Patients with pSS had a higher number of neutrophils and mast cells than healthy controls, while the number of eosinophils was similar in the two groups. The number of IL-8-positive cells was higher in pSS butthe numbers of IL-4-and IL-5-positive cells were not significantly different between pSS and healthy controls. The numbers of T cells in patients with pSS were higher than in healthy controls, while the numbers of CD25-positive cells were similar to the healthy controls. The degree of epithelial integrity in patients with pSS was significantly lower than in the control group and the tenascin and laminin layers were significantly thicker in the pSS group. There was a correlation between the number of mast cells and the thickness of the tenascin and laminin layers in pSS. In conclusion, we found that the cellular pattern in the bronchial mucosa of patients with pSS displayed large numbers of neutrophils, mast cells and T-lymphocytes. These changes in inflammatory cell numbers seemed to relate to the observed increased epithelial damage and structural changes of the subepithelium. The structural findings, but not the pattern of inflammatory cells, are shared with atopic asthma and may relate to the increased bronchial hyper-responsiveness seen in both diseases.
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50. |
- Amin, Kawa, et al.
(author)
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The extracellular deposition of mast cell products is increased in hypertrophic airways smooth muscles in allergic asthma but not in nonallergic asthma
- 2005
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In: Allergy. European Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. - : Wiley. - 0105-4538 .- 1398-9995. ; 60:10, s. 1241-1247
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: Bronchial asthma is characterized by airways smooth muscle hypertrophy and infiltration of mast cells in the bronchial mucosa. The aim of this investigation was to study the distribution of mast cells in different compartments in the bronchial mucosa of allergic and nonallergic asthma in relation to airways remodeling. METHODS: Bronchial biopsies were obtained from 29 subjects with allergic and nonallergic asthma and healthy controls. The biopsies were stained for mast cells by means of the tryptase specific antibody AA1. Extracellular deposition of mast cell products were judged on a semi-quantitative scale. Mast cells per mm(2) were counted in epithelium, lamina propria and the smooth muscle compartment. Smooth muscle was visualized by actin antibodies and the proportion of staining of the biopsy estimated. Laminin and tenascin layers were visualized by their respective antibodies. RESULTS: Airways smooth muscle thickness was greater in allergic vs nonallergic asthma (P < 0.001). Mast cells were increased in all three compartments in both allergic and nonallergic asthma, with significantly higher numbers in smooth muscles in allergic asthma (P < 0.03). The extracellular deposition of mast cell products was more common in allergic than nonallergic asthma in lamina propria and smooth muscles (P = 0.025; P = 0.002, respectively). In patients with allergic asthma the numbers of mast cells with extracellular deposition of mast cell products were significantly correlated to the thickness of the laminin and tenascin layers. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that there are large differences between allergic and nonallergic asthmatics as to mast cell activation and airways smooth muscle thickness. Our data implies that mast cells are causally involved in structural alterations in allergic asthma.
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