Thorax
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During the last decade it has been clarified that the inhalation of indium compounds can evoke alveolar proteinosis, cholesterol granuloma, pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the characteristics and time course of pulmonary disorders among indium workers using comprehensive pulmonary examinations at an indium-processing factory. ⋯ The present findings suggest that the sIn, SP-D, KL-6 levels and radiological interstitial changes can be reduced in indium workers by alleviating exposure to indium, whereas emphysematous lesions can progress among those with a history of heavy exposure.
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We tested the hypotheses that fibrinogen and α1-antitrypsin are observationally and genetically associated with exacerbations in COPD. ⋯ Fibrinogen and α1-antitrypsin were observationally associated with increased risk of exacerbations. However, genetically, fibrinogen per se was not associated with exacerbations, while lowered α1-antitrypsin was associated with increased odds of exacerbations.