Respirology

Solving the puzzle of cystic fibrosis and its treatments is a Nobel Prize-worthy breakthrough
The nomination deadline for the Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine is fast approaching. Besides those for the COVID-19 vaccines, several others are prominent, including the discovery of the cystic fibrosis gene and the drugs to treat the disease.
COVID-19 diagnosis leads to decline in mobility and functioning in older adults
Canadian study shows non-hospitalized adults age 50+ with COVID-19 have higher risk of worsening mobility and physical function compared with those without COVID-19.

Canadian trial: remdesivir reduces need for ventilation by half for COVID patients

The study, published Wednesday in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, is the largest single-country trial of remdesivir reported to date.
What you need to know about paxlovid: the first oral antiviral for COVID-19 approved in Canada

Pfizer’s Paxlovid expected to overshadow Merck’s molnupiravir, with higher efficacy in preventing hospitalization/death in high-risk outpatients with mild/moderate COVID-19.
Low rate of false-positive rapid antigen test results in Canadian workplaces

Study investigates the incidence of false-positives in a large sample of SARS-CoV-2 rapid antigen tests used to screen asymptomatic workers throughout Canada.
2021 CTS guideline update: Diagnosis and management of asthma in preschoolers, children and adults

Guideline update: Diagnosis and management of asthma in preschoolers, children and adults.
Breakthrough COVID-19 infection rates higher among those with immune dysfunction

But vaccination still offers protection, study finds
How should chronic cough be assessed and managed?

Canadian review highlights recommended investigations, current management options and new treatments under study for chronic cough
Text messaging service for monitoring COVID-19 at home reduces mortality

Study finds a 64% relative reduction in the risk for death, and one life saved for every 400 patients enrolled in the remote monitoring service.
Research roundup: COVID ICU practice guidelines, tools for coping with patient deaths, history of respiratory disease

Here are three research papers that caught our eye this week.

Solving the puzzle of cystic fibrosis and its treatments is a Nobel Prize-worthy breakthrough

COVID-19 diagnosis leads to decline in mobility and functioning in older adults

Canadian trial: remdesivir reduces need for ventilation by half for COVID patients

What you need to know about paxlovid: the first oral antiviral for COVID-19 approved in Canada

Low rate of false-positive rapid antigen test results in Canadian workplaces

2021 CTS guideline update: Diagnosis and management of asthma in preschoolers, children and adults

Breakthrough COVID-19 infection rates higher among those with immune dysfunction

How should chronic cough be assessed and managed?

Text messaging service for monitoring COVID-19 at home reduces mortality

Research roundup: COVID ICU practice guidelines, tools for coping with patient deaths, history of respiratory disease