Immunological Effects of Diesel Particles in a Murine Model of Healthy Mice.

Exposure to environmental pollutants such as diesel exhaust particles (DEP) increases the risk of respiratory disease exacerbation. However, the possible effects of these particles on the general population remain poorly understood. The present study aimed to assess the immunomodulatory and inflammatory effects of the inhalation of DEP in a model of healthy mice undergoing short-, mid- and long-term exposure.

Sensitization to avian and fungal proteins in different work environments.

Introduction: Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is usually caused by the inhalation of avian and fungal proteins. The present study assesses a cohort of Urban Pest Surveillance and Control Service (UPSCS) workers with high exposure to avian and fungal antigens, in order to identify their degree of sensitization and the potential risk of developing HP.

Methods: Workers were divided according to their work activity into Nest pruners (Group 1) and Others (Group 2).

Biomarker Profiles Associated with COVID-19 Severity and Mortality.

Introduction: The aim of this study was to analyze biomarkers that might predict the severity and progression of the SARS-CoV-2 infection, both in the acute phase and after recovery.

Methods: Unvaccinated patients infected with the original strain of COVID-19 requiring ward (Group 1, n = 48) or ICU (Group 2, n = 41) admission were included. At the time of admission (visit 1), a clinical history was acquired, and blood samples were obtained.

Immunopathological Mechanisms of Bird-Related Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis.

Bird-related hypersensitivity pneumonitis (BRHP) is an interstitial lung disease induced by avian proteins. The immunopathological pathways involved in the disease are still unknown. This study assesses the cellular immune response and the cytokine pattern in a mouse model of BRHP.

YKL-40 and KL-6 Levels in Serum and Sputum of Patients Diagnosed With Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis.

Background: YKL-40 (chitinase 3-like-1) and Krebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6) are 2 promising biomarkers that may have an important role in the management of interstitial lung diseases (ILD).

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the values of KL-6 and YKL-40 as biomarkers in the diagnosis and prognosis of patients with hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP).

Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted in 49 patients diagnosed with HP due to exposure to birds (n = 32) or fungi (n = 17), 48 patients with other ILD, and 67 healthy volunteers.