Abstract
In this article, the writer explains that respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is an RNA negative-sense stranded enveloped virus. The writer notes that infection with the virus is implicated in the condition bronchiolitis, which is a condition which affects predominantly infants. Often there is little need for laboratory diagnosis as the clinical symptoms and history allow for accurate diagnosis of the condition. The writer discusses the treatment of RSV that currently focuses on treatment of the condition's symptoms. This involves the use of anti-inflammatories to control the fever, and bronchodilators or corticosteroids to control the effects present in the pulmonary system. The writer concludes that there is currently no preventative vaccine for RSV although there have been developments relating to prophylactic medication which can be administered to at risk children.

Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
Micro-Organism
Transmission
Symptoms
Pathology of the Disease
Onset and Incubation Period
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention

From the Paper
"RSV is transmitted in respiratory secretions. This means that it may be contracted through close contact with anyone who has the infection, or contact with contaminated surfaces or objects. The fact that the virus is able to survive for only short periods outside the body reduces the probability of contracting the virus through contact with surfaces. Infection occurs when the infected respiratory secretions come into contact with the mucous membranes of the eyes, mouth or nose. It is possible that the disease may also be transmitted through inhaling droplets from the coughs or sneezes of infectious persons.
"In areas which have the correct type of temperate climate to encourage proliferation, community outbreaks of RSV occur. These usually begin in the fall and may last from four to six months."

Tags:symptoms, bronchiolitis, fever, asthma

Abstract
Respiratory airway obstruction resulting from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can be caused by two mechanisms: bronchiolitis and emphysema. While the obstructive condition is generally due to bronchiolitis, emphysema may appear later in the course of the disease or independent of the bronchiolitis. Cigarette smoking is a primary factor in the development of COPD and, thus, emphysema, which can lead to decreased lung capacity and a substantial decrease of oxygen exchange in the lungs. This paper provides a review of the anatomical and physiological factors influencing the development of COPD and emphysema, with an analysis of underlying biochemical stimuli. It provides a specific understanding of the causes and conditions of COPD and determines methods of treatment and prevention.

From the Paper
"The role of proteolytic enzymes in the progression of COPD and emphysema has been reviewed for therapeutic purposes. Smoking is implicated in 85 to 90% of COPD cases, with evidence demonstrating that smoking causes the inflammatory conditions from which airway obstruction can occur, producing increased amounts of neutrophil and macrophage elastases. While both of these proteolytic enzymes have varied effects on pathogenesis among individuals, studies of use of elastase inhibitors have been cited as potential forms of therapy. However, in cases where the individual cannot refrain from smoking, and the inflammatory stimuli thus persists, these elastase inhibitors have been limited in their benefit (Snider, 2000)."

Tags:MMP, levels, Fibrosis, neutrophil

Abstract
This paper examines features of the respiratory system in humans. It first looks at the tubular system, and the distribution and function of elastic tissue in the lungs. Then the paper studies the respiratory membrane, exploring the membrane composition. The paper concludes by answering why the alveoli are the ideal site for gas exchange in the lungs.

From the Paper
"The respiratory system serves to exchange gases between the blood and the external environment, bringing oxygen into the bloodstream for transportation to the tissues and taking carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs to be expelled into the external environment..."

Tags:bronchi, bronchioles, alveoli