A Genome-Wide Screen in Macrophages Defines Host Genes Regulating the Uptake of Mycobacterium abscessus.

The interactions between a host cell and a pathogen can dictate disease outcomes and are important targets for host-directed therapies. Mycobacterium abscessus (Mab) is a highly antibiotic resistant, rapidly growing nontuberculous mycobacterium that infects patients with chronic lung diseases. Mab can infect host immune cells, such as macrophages, which contribute to its pathogenesis.

Methacholine challenge tests to demonstrate therapeutic equivalence of terbutaline sulfate via different Turbuhaler devices in patients with mild to moderate asthma: Appraisal of a four-way crossover design.

Background/objective: To demonstrate therapeutic equivalence of terbutaline via two different Turbuhaler devices by evaluating its protective effect against methacholine-induced bronchoconstriction in stable asthma.

Methods: In this double-blind, double-dummy, multicentre, single-dose, 4-way crossover study, patients with stable mild-to-moderate asthma (FEV ≥80% predicted) were randomised to 0.5 or 1.

Efficacy and safety of AZD3199 vs formoterol in COPD: a randomized, double-blind study.

Background: We investigated the efficacy and safety of AZD3199, a novel inhaled ultra-LABA, with the main aim of establishing a dose that would maintain 24-hour bronchodilation in patients with COPD.

Methods: Patients (n = 329) were randomized to AZD3199 (200, 400 or 800 μg o.d.

Effect of esomeprazole 40 mg once or twice daily on asthma: a randomized, placebo-controlled study.

Rationale: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common among patients with asthma; however, studies investigating the effect of proton pump inhibitors on asthma outcomes report conflicting results.

Objectives: To investigate the effect of esomeprazole 40 mg once or twice daily on asthma outcomes in patients with concomitant symptoms of GERD.

Methods: This 26-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study (NCT00317044) included adult patients (18-70 yr) with moderate-to-severe asthma and symptomatic GERD.

Effect on lung function and morning activities of budesonide/formoterol versus salmeterol/fluticasone in patients with COPD.

Background: Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) often experience symptoms and problems with activities early in the morning. This is the first study to compare the effect of budesonide/formoterol and salmeterol/fluticasone on lung function, symptoms and activities early in the morning.

Methods: Lung function (peak expiratory flow [PEF] and forced expiratory volume in 1 second [FEV( 1)]) and symptoms were measured at bedside and activities were measured during the morning using a six-item questionnaire concerning basic morning routines.