Chest
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Application of mass spectrometry (MS) for direct measurements of desmosine (D) and isodesmosine (I) in urine, plasma, and sputum as markers of elastin degradation in patients with alpha(1)-antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) and non-AATD-related COPD. ⋯ MS allows a sensitive and specific analysis of D and I in body fluids. The quantification of D and I in sputum, along with increases of D and I in plasma and an elevated free component of D and I in urine provide indexes that characterize patients with COPD and can be followed in relation to the course of the disease and/or therapy.
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Multicenter Study Clinical Trial
Infection with Burkholderia cepacia complex bacteria and pulmonary exacerbations of cystic fibrosis.
Studies have shown that cystic fibrosis (CF) patients who are chronically infected with Burkholderia cepacia complex bacteria may potentially acquire new strains of B cepacia. Our objective was to determine whether pulmonary exacerbations of CF are associated with acquisition of new B cepacia strains or with B cepacia strain replacement. ⋯ Adult CF patients infected with B cenocepacia maintain the same strain of B cenocepacia during exacerbations; pulmonary exacerbations are not caused by acquisition of a new B cepacia species or strain. B cepacia isolates retrieved during exacerbations may be more resistant to antibiotics.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
Effects of a walking aid in COPD patients receiving oxygen therapy.
To elucidate whether a simple walking aid may improve physical performance in COPD patients with chronic respiratory insufficiency who usually carry their own heavy oxygen canister. ⋯ This study suggests that a simple walking aid may be helpful in COPD patients receiving long-term oxygen therapy, particularly in those with lower residual exercise capacity.