Efficacy of air purifier therapy for patients with allergic asthma.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of air purifier therapy for patients with allergic asthma. METHODS: Thirty-eight subjects were categorized under two groups namely treatment group and control group. All subjects were under 18 years of age and they had been clinically diagnosed with allergic asthma. The treatment group used high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifiers for six consecutive months, and the control group did not use the air filters. Particulate matter (PM) data and dust samples (from bedding and a static point) were collected from the subjects' bedrooms before they started using the air purifiers and each month thereafter. Simultaneously, the subjects were asked to complete a questionnaire for the Asthma Control Test (ACT) or Childhood Asthma Control Test (C-ACT). Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) tests were performed at the start and end of the study. The concentrations of Der p1 and Der f1 were measured in the dust samples. RESULTS: (1) After utilizing the air purifier, the concentrations of house dust mite (HDM) allergens (Der p1+ Der f1) in the dust samples decreased. In addition, the PMindoor/outdoor values significantly decreased. (2) The ACT and C-ACT scores in the treatment group maintained a steady significant upward trend. (3) At the end of the study, the FENO levels in both groups were lower, although the differences were not significant. CONCLUSIONS: It is witnessed that HEPA air purifiers can decrease indoor HDM allergen and PM levels and improve the quality of life for allergic asthma patients.

Optimization of matrix prescription of Compound Qingfengteng Cataplasm by orthogonal test method / 中草药

Objective: To optimize the matrix prescription of Compound Qingfengteng Cataplasm (CQC). Methods: Taking the comprehensive senses as evaluation index, the types and dosage of the matrix were investigated by single factor. Further combined with the initial viscosity and holding viscosity index to optimize the matrix prescription of CQC by orthogonal test, and in vitro transdermal absorption experiments were carried out by Franz diffusion pool method to screen penetration enhancers. Results: The optimal formulation of CQC was as follows: 2.5 g of NP-700, 11 g of glycerin, 0.08 g of glycine aluminum, 0.08 g of tartaric acid, 0.8 g of PVP K90, 0.5 g of PVPP, 20 g of water, and 4.2 g of dry extract. 3% nitrile as a penetration agent could enhance penetration action. Conclusion: The preferred matrix prescription is practicable; CQC adhesion is moderate, no residue, paste traits, skin followability are good.