Chest
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Traditional approaches for learning anatomy for curvilinear endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) require learners to mentally visualize structures relative to the position of the bronchoscope. Virtual reality (VR) can demonstrate anatomy from the perspective of bronchoscopic tools. ⋯ A VR anatomy trainer was preferred by learners because it provided visualization that aligned best with the procedural perspective. This approach helped learners of all spatial reasoning ability improve their procedural performance.
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Lung cancer is the second most common and the deadliest cancer for men and women in the U. S. Historical and current-day injustices, implicit and explicit bias, stigma, social determinants, and disparities contribute to inequitable lung cancer-related health outcomes for Black and African Americans comparatively. ⋯ More intentional efforts must be made, and socially conscious and population-specific methods must be undertaken to ensure all eligible individuals realize the benefits of screening. Partnerships between lung cancer patient advocacy and faith-based organizations are a natural leverage point to educate, prepare, and empower Black health ministries to disseminate lung cancer-related health information to their faith communities. This How I Do It shares an approach to community outreach and engagement in Black churches in the South, informed by established principles and best practices and the perspectives and skills only lived experiences can offer.
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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a complex, heterogeneous lung disease characterized by persistent airflow limitation secondary to airways and parenchymal abnormalities, and respiratory symptoms, including dyspnoea, fatigue, chronic cough, and sputum production. Cigarette smoke exposure is a major contributor to COPD although inhalation of toxic particles and other environmental and host factors can contribute to its genesis. Over time, the clinical course is frequently punctuated by exacerbations that further accelerate lung function decline and increase exacerbation risk. Despite current optimal therapy, many patients remain symptomatic, have exacerbations, and increased morbidity, mortality, and health-care costs. This review focuses on current knowledge of COPD pathophysiology, the role of inflammatory mechanisms, and the potential use of biologics to modulate these mechanisms. ⋯ Biologics targeting inflammatory pathways may be effective treatments for specific patients with COPD.
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The prevalence of non-Tuberculous Mycobacteria pulmonary disease (NTM-pd) is rising globally. Previously, we described a high prevalence of M. simiae isolation in Israel. ⋯ Infection with M.simiae is prevalent in Israel, and although considered minimally pathogenic, demonstrated similar clinical and radiologic features to MAC-pd.