Biological Health Services

12/08/2024

How a fungus is causing problems for party goers

In the midst of their revelry, festival-goers in California unwittingly kicked up the invisible spores of a dangerous fungus while dancing in the dust.

03/08/2024

Forever chemicals and a new method based to remove…

Engineers have invented a new way to remove health-harming 'forever chemicals' from water—using 3D printing.

31/07/2024

A beautiful article describing how movement through time is described and the physics behind it.

For thousands of years, scholars pondered the question of how anything can move in our world. The problem seemed to have been solved—until the development of quantum mechanics

29/07/2024

We May Have Found a Target For Treating The Fatigue of Long COVID : ScienceAlert

Researchers have just discovered a process in fruit flies which links inflammation with impaired motor function, providing researchers with a potential target for treating the persistent muscle fatigue that follows many infections.

14/07/2024

Are warmer temperatures causing fungi to attack humans? Two deaths in China suggest it may be

The pathogen’s unusual characteristics raise concerns that climate change could make fungal infections increasingly dangerous to humans

Read in The Telegraph:

The pathogen’s unusual characteristics raise concerns that climate change could make fungal infections increasingly dangerous to humans

06/07/2024

More reasons to look out for other immune triggers like mould. Beware of black mould mucormycosis also.

Even in those without long COVID.

05/07/2024

The role of mitochondria in health

Chronic stress has emerged as a significant factor affecting mitochondrial function, with far-reaching implications for both physical and mental health....

04/07/2024

Exciting times for research into the ‘home’ and how this affects our health & happiness.

University of South Australia researcher Dr Isabella Bower explains her research into how buildings affect brain function.

03/07/2024

I will be speaking on ABC WA later today on the mould issues at this site.

📢 𝗧𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗚𝘆𝗺 𝗖𝗹𝗼𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲 📢

Please note as a precautionary measure we’ve closed the gym until an assessment of the space can be undertaken.

On 1 July 2024 the presence of mould was identified inside the administration office at the Centre. The City’s Environmental Health team immediately investigated, and the gym was identified as also possibly affected. Under the advice of the Department of Health and to ensure the safety and well-being of patrons and staff, the City has moved to close the gym as a precautionary measure effective 5pm, 2 July 2024.

Our priority is the well-being of our community, and we are taking immediate steps to assess the situation in consultation with the Department of Health and with the help of professional experts.

Other areas of the Centre remain open to the public including the

✅ Stadium
✅ Pools and pool deck
✅ Creche
✅ Spa and Sauna
✅ Group Fitness Classes (as per normal)
✅ Compound (between 5am-9pm Mon-Fri and 8am-6pm weekends access through front doors)

We appreciate this is an inconvenience for patrons and our community and are committed to resolving this matter as quickly and efficiently as possible. We will provide regular updates to all patrons and the community as soon as they come to hand.

Members will receive an email with membership fee information including the option to suspend or receive a 50% discount on their memberships if still wanting to access other services.

Thank you for your understanding. For more information please contact our team on phone 📞 9021 9600 or email oasis@goldfieldsoasis.com.au

30/06/2024

The diagnostic criteria for postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) have been questioned by several researchContinue readingThe problems with POTS

30/06/2024

This is interesting and shows the impact of localized microbial colonisation.

Five distinct respiratory phenotypes based on latent classes of longitudinal patterns of wheezing, allergic sensitization. and pulmonary function meas…

02/06/2024

Unveiling the Hidden Layers of Aspergillus Sinusitis

In the intricate world of healthcare, understanding the nuances of diseases is paramount. Aspergillus sinusitis, a condition caused by fungal rhinosinusitis (FRS), presents a fascinating case of how environmental factors and patient characteristics converge to shape health outcomes. A recent study by Lena Hafrén and colleagues sheds light on the risk factors and phenotypes of sinonasal Aspergillus disease, offering valuable insights for both medical professionals and patients.

The Context and Scope

Aspergillus, a common mold found in our environment, can cause a range of respiratory issues, including fungal rhinosinusitis. This study, conducted over nine years in a hospital situated in a continental climate, aimed to identify the risk factors associated with sinonasal Aspergillus infections. By analyzing the medical records of 86 patients with positive Aspergillus cultures, the researchers sought to unravel the complexities of this condition.

Key Findings

The study identified three distinct groups among the patients:

1. Invasive Fungal Rhinosinusitis (IFRS)
2. Fungal Ball (FB) Disease
3. Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Fungus (CFRS)*m

Invasive Fungal Rhinosinusitis (IFRS): This severe form of Aspergillus sinusitis was found in three patients, all of whom were immunocompromised and had malignancies. This underscores the heightened vulnerability of immunocompromised individuals to invasive fungal infections.

Fungal Ball (FB) Disease: Affecting 51 patients, FB disease was predominantly a single-sinus condition with relatively mild symptoms. This type was more common among elderly individuals, indicating an age-related predisposition.

Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Fungus (CFRS): In this group, comprising 32 patients, common factors included allergies, allergic rhinitis, asthma, nasal polyps, and the use of inhaled and nasal steroids. Notably, these patients exhibited elevated levels of IgE compared to the other groups, suggesting an allergic component to their condition.

A New Perspective on Aspergillus Sinusitis

One of the most intriguing findings of the study was the identification of a potential new category of Aspergillus sinusitis. Patients in this group had nasal polyps, atopy, asthma, and elevated blood IgE and eosinophils but did not meet the criteria for allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS). This suggests the existence of a less severe, perhaps underdiagnosed, form of AFRS, particularly in colder climates.

Implications for Treatment and Management

The treatment approach for Aspergillus sinusitis varies depending on the type and severity of the condition. For most patients, local debridement—a surgical procedure to remove fungal debris—proved effective. Interestingly, the study noted that relapses were uncommon in colder climates, which could influence future treatment protocols.

However, patients with IFRS require more intensive management due to their compromised immune systems. This highlights the importance of personalized treatment plans that consider individual risk factors and disease phenotypes.

Moving Forward

The findings from Lena Hafrén and her team underscore the importance of thorough diagnostic evaluations and tailored treatment strategies. By recognizing the diverse presentations of Aspergillus sinusitis, healthcare providers can better address the needs of their patients, improving outcomes and quality of life.

Conclusion

As we continue to explore the complexities of diseases like Aspergillus sinusitis, it is crucial to remain open to new insights and perspectives. This study not only enhances our understanding of fungal rhinosinusitis but also paves the way for more effective and personalized care. By embracing the nuances and individualities of each patient’s condition, we move closer to a healthcare system that truly meets the needs of all.

In the spirit of continual learning and adaptation, let’s keep pushing the boundaries of our knowledge, always striving to provide the best possible care for those we serve.

Hafrén L, Saarinen R, Kurimo R, Viljanen M, Lundberg M. Aspergillus Sinusitis: Risk Factors and Phenotyping. J Clin Med. 2024 Apr 27;13(9):2579. doi: 10.3390/jcm13092579. PMID: 38731108; PMCID: PMC11084900. https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/13/9/2579