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Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

AbstractObjective: We compared thoracic electrical impedance tomography (EIT) with slow vital capacity (SVC) to determine if EIT could monitor pulmonary function in ALS patients longitudinally. Methods: Of 32 ALS patients and 32 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs) initially enrolled in the Pulmonary Function via Impedance Tomography (PuFIT) study, 22 ALS and 20 HCs returned for a follow-up visit ∼3.9 months later. All participants had thoracic EIT measurements performed simultaneously with standard SVC in upright and supine positions at both visits. EIT data from each measurement were summarized as a single parameter, the impedance-SVC (zSVC), representing an averaged impedance change across both lungs. We assessed alterations over time for both cohorts of participants. Results: Sufficient quality EIT and SVC data were available for 18 of the patients with ALS and 19 HCs. Over time, mean upright SVC significantly declined by 5% in the ALS group and did not change in the healthy group. Supine SVC showed no change in either group. Although mean trajectories of zSVC mirrored mean SVC trajectories in both participant cohorts, changes in zSVC in ALS patients did not reach significance, due to greater variability in the repeated measures. Conclusion: Despite strong cross-sectional correlations to SVC, EIT did not detect a decline in pulmonary function over approximately four months. Increased variability in EIT data explains the lack of sensitivity to change. Technological improvements and special care with electrode placement will be needed for EIT to reach its full potential in longitudinal assessment of pulmonary function in ALS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is frequently performed in acute, chronic, symptomatic, and asymptomatic cholelithiasis. It is simple, safer, and requires less recovery time than open cholecystectomy, which is why this procedure is increasingly utilised for various abdominal surgeries. Patients may experience postoperative pulmonary problems during the recovery phase and as per available literature there is a noticeable decline in the vital capacity of the patient. It was observed that Buteyko breathing and breath stacking breathing techniques has a good impact on the physiological parameters and vital capacity of patients with hypertension, asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and other respiratory conditions. Need of the study: Buteyko breathing and breath stacking breathing techniques are effective in different conditions like hypertension, asthma, and cardiac surgery. The need of the study is to compare both techniques and find out which one is more effective and implement that with the standard exercises in the patients to help them improve their quality of life, reduce hospital stay, and improve lung capacity. Aim: To compare the effects of the Breath Stacking Technique (BST) and Buteyko Breathing Technique (BBT) on the physiological parameters of patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Materials and Methods: This will be a randomised controlled trial in which 140 patients will be included using purposive sampling via block randomisation. The study will be conducted in Surgery Intensive Care Unit (SICU) of Maharishi Markandeshwar Medical College and Hospital, Kumarhatti, Solan, from December 2023 to May 2024. Patients in Group-A will perform the BBT and Group-B will perform the BST. Each cycle of breathing consists of five repetitions with five sets and 30 seconds of rest in between. Outcome measures will be taken at baseline and after intervention on Postoperative Day 1 (POD). The normality of the data will be checked by Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. A paired t-test will be used if the data is normal, and the Wilcoxon Signed Rank test will be used if the data is non-normal. A p-value < 0.05 will be considered significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kinesio taping® (KT) could facilitate respiratory muscle contraction, improving breathing. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the immediate effects of KT application on thoracoabdominal mobility, vital capacity, and respiratory muscle strength of healthy young individuals. This clinical trial included 19 healthy individuals, measuring their maximum inspiratory and expiratory pressure, vital capacity, and thoracoabdominal mobility using cirtometry. Participants were evaluated, and KT was applied below the xiphoid process; then, they were reassessed 15 min after the application. The thoracoabdominal mobility did not significantly change the axillar (84.2 ± 6.6 cm vs 83.6 ± 6.1 cm; p = 0.116), xiphoid process (74.2 ± 8.8 cm vs 74.2 ± 8.63 cm; p = 0.805), and umbilical (73.7 ± 8.1 cm vs 74.2 ± 8.35 cm; p = 0.344) circumferences. Additionally, the vital capacity (3.8 ± 1.0 L vs 3.5 ± 1.3 L; p = 0.097), the maximal inspiratory pressure (−85.3 ± 31.7 cmH 2 O vs −79.5 ± 34.7 cmH 2 O; p = 0.265), and maximal expiratory pressure (63.9 ± 31.8 cmH 2 O vs 59.5 ± 36.1 cmH 2 O; p = 0.277) were not significantly different. KT showed no immediate effect on thoracoabdominal mobility, vital capacity, and respiratory muscle strength of healthy young adults. Future studies should investigate the effects of KT applied for a longer time (i.e., long-term effects). Furthermore, individuals with respiratory diseases could be evaluated, especially those presenting dysfunction in the rib cage morphology. • Kinesio Taping® does not improve ventilatory parameters after 15 min of application. • Kinesio Taping® effects should be studied in patients with respiratory diseases. • Results do not support the routine use of Kinesio Taping® to improve respiratory outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/objective: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a diagnosis that incorporates a heterogeneous set of neurodegenerative processes into a single progressive and uniformly fatal disease making the development of a uniformly applicable therapeutic difficult. Recent multinational ALS natural history incidence studies have identified systemic chronic activation of the innate immune system as a major risk factor for developing ALS. Persistent immune activation in patients with ALS leads to loss of muscle and lowering of serum creatinine. The goal of the current study was to test whether the slowing of nerve and muscle destruction in NP001-treated ALS patients compared with controls in phase 2 studies would lead to extension of survival. Methods: Phase 2 clinical studies with NP001, an intravenously administered form of the innate immune system regulator NaClO2, are now reporting long-term survival benefits for drug recipients vs. placebo controls after only six months of intermittent treatment. As a prodrug, NP001 is converted by macrophages to taurine chloramine, a long-lived regulator of inflammation. We performed a pooled analysis of all patients who had completed the studies in two six-month NP001 phase 2 trials. Changes in respiratory vital capacity and the muscle mass product, creatinine, defined treated patients who, compared to placebo, had up to a year of extended survival. Conclusions: The observed longer survival in ALS patients with the greatest inflammation-associated muscle loss provides further evidence that ALS is a disease of ongoing innate immune dysfunction and that NP001 is a disease-modifying drug with sustained clinical activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is frequently performed in acute, chronic, symptomatic, and asymptomatic cholelithiasis. It is simple, safer, and requires less recovery time than open cholecystectomy, which is why this procedure is increasingly utilised for various abdominal surgeries. Patients may experience postoperative pulmonary problems during the recovery phase and as per available literature there is a noticeable decline in the vital capacity of the patient. It was observed that Buteyko breathing and breath stacking breathing techniques has a good impact on the physiological parameters and vital capacity of patients with hypertension, asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and other respiratory conditions. Need of the study: Buteyko breathing and breath stacking breathing techniques are effective in different conditions like hypertension, asthma, and cardiac surgery. The need of the study is to compare both techniques and find out which one is more effective and implement that with the standard exercises in the patients to help them improve their quality of life, reduce hospital stay, and improve lung capacity. Aim: To compare the effects of the Breath Stacking Technique (BST) and Buteyko Breathing Technique (BBT) on the physiological parameters of patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Materials and Methods: This will be a randomised controlled trial in which 140 patients will be included using purposive sampling via block randomisation. The study will be conducted in Surgery Intensive Care Unit (SICU) of Maharishi Markandeshwar Medical College and Hospital, Kumarhatti, Solan, from December 2023 to May 2024. Patients in Group-A will perform the BBT and Group-B will perform the BST. Each cycle of breathing consists of five repetitions with five sets and 30 seconds of rest in between. Outcome measures will be taken at baseline and after intervention on Postoperative Day 1 (POD). The normality of the data will be checked by Kolmogorov- Smirnov test. A paired t-test will be used if the data is normal, and the Wilcoxon Signed Rank test will be used if the data is non-normal. A p-value < 0.05 will be considered significant.

Introduction: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) consists of administering oxygen at pressures higher than atmospheric pressure. Though HBOT remains one of the safest therapies used today, it is not completely devoid of side effects. Pulmonary oxygen toxicity can result as a result of continuous exposure of elevated levels of oxygen for increased duration and at increased pressures. The main pathological manifestations occur as acute exudative phase followed by subacute proliferative phase. Effects of HBOT on pulmonary functions has not been studied in detail. This study was conducted to ascertain the effects of HBOT on pulmonary functions and determine if these changes are reversible in nature. Material and Method: A prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital over a period of 02 years. A total of 72 patients who were undergoing HBOT for any indication normal chest radiograph and normal spirometry/DLCO were included in the study. Spirometry and DLCO was done initially at the time of inclusion and repeated after half of the total planned HBOT sessions and finally at the end of all sessions of HBOT. Spirometry and DLCO was also repeated 6 months post completion of HBOT. The HBOT protocol consisted of breathing 100% oxygen at 2.4 atmospheric absolute (ATA) for 90 minutes which was referred as one session. Total sessions varied from 20-30 based on indication and response of their primary disease to HBO. Results: The mean age score in study population was 47.12 ± 12.88. Among the study population, 12(24%) participants were male and 38(76%) participants were female. The mean BMI was 24.49 ± 5.45. The mean DLCO was 6.67 ± 1.45 ml/min/mm Hg pre intervention, it was 6.38 ± 1.43 ml/min/mm Hg at mid cycle and 6.21 ± 1.41 ml/min/mm Hg post intervention and at 6 months follow up it was 6.43 ± 1.46 ml/min/mm Hg. The difference in the DLCO at mid cycle, post intervention and 6 months follow up period with baseline value were statistically significant (P value 0.005). Conclusion: HBOT although a safe intervention, it is not totally devoid of complications. Although our study did reveal statistically significant changes in pulmonary function in most of the instances, it did not show any clinically significant changes in pulmonary function with use of HBOT protocol at 2.4 ATA. Studies with larger sample size will be required to ensure evidence based safety of HBOT use.

Background: Many patients with lung cancer have underlying chronic lung diseases. We assume that baseline lung functions might also affect the prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients receiving immunotherapy. Objectives: We aimed to assess the impact of pretreatment clinical parameters, including lung function measures such as forced vital capacity (FVC), on the prognosis of patients with NSCLC following immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) therapy. Design: Retrospective multicenter study. Methods: Study subjects were consecutively selected from a multicenter cohort of patients with NSCLC who were undergoing immunotherapy. Patients were selected regardless of their initial cancer stage and prior treatment. The primary outcome was immunotherapy-related overall survival (iOS), defined as the duration from the initiation of immunotherapy to the time patients were censored. Spirometry values were acquired before bronchodilator application and were performed within the year before the first ICI treatment Results: We selected 289 patients for evaluation. The median iOS was 10.9 months (95% confidence interval (CI), 7.5–14.3). Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression, tested by SP263, was <1% in 20.9%, 1%–49% in 44.3%, and ⩾50% in 32.6% of the patients. ICI was used most often as second-line treatment (70.2%), followed by first line (13.1%), and third line (11.4%). In the Kaplan–Meier analysis, the median iOS of the low FVC group was significantly shorter than that in the preserved FVC group (6.10 (95% CI, 4.45–7.76) months vs 14.40 (95% CI, 10.61–18.34) months, p < 0.001)). A Cox regression analysis for iOS showed that age, poor performance status, PD-L1 expression measured by SP263, stage at diagnosis, and FVC (% predicted) were independent predictive factors. When we replaced FVC (%) in the multivariable analysis with forced expiratory volume in 1 s (%), diffusing lung capacity for carbon monoxide (DLco; %), or DLco (absolute), each of the pulmonary function factors showed a significant association with iOS. Conclusion: Pre-immunotherapy FVC (%) predicted immunotherapy-related outcomes in NSCLC patients, regardless of initial stage at diagnosis and prior treatment modalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This retrospective study analysed a series of investigations on lung function in military divers and the importance of computed tomography (CT) scans concerning fitness to dive. We examined the incidence of blebs and bullae in a population of military divers with large lungs prompted by six cases of pulmonary barotrauma. All of these divers' medicals were normal apart from having large lungs (FVC > 120% predicted). A subsequent survey of the database of all divers and submariners of the Royal Netherlands Navy (RNLN) found another 72 divers/submariners with large lungs who were then evaluated by a CT scan. This resulted in the identification of three further individuals with blebs and/or bullae, who were then declared unfit to dive. In total, the incidence of these lung abnormalities in this cohort was 11.5%. We discuss the possible consequences for fitness to dive with regard to the current literature on the subject, and also consider the most recent standards of reference values for pulmonary function indices. Based on our results and additional insights from other studies, we advise using the Global Lung Initiative reference values for pulmonary function, while performing high resolution CT scans only in divers with clinical indications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We sought to determine whether thoracic electrical impedance tomography (EIT) could characterize pulmonary function in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients, including those with facial weakness. Thoracic EIT is a noninvasive, technology in which a multi-electrode belt is placed across the chest, producing real-time impedance imaging of the chest during breathing. We enrolled 32 ALS patients and 32 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs) without underlying lung disease. All participants had EIT measurements performed simultaneously with standard pulmonary function tests (PFTs), including slow and forced vital capacity (SVC and FVC) in upright and supine positions and maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (MIPs and MEPs, respectively). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated to assess the immediate reproducibility of EIT measurements and Pearson's correlations were used to explore the relationships between EIT and PFT values. Data from 30 ALS patients and 27 HCs were analyzed. Immediate upright SVC reproducibility was very high (ICC 0.98). Correlations were generally strongest between EIT and spirometry measures, with R values ranging from 0.64 to 0.82 (p < 0.001) in the ALS cohort. There were less robust correlations between EIT values and both MIPs and MEPs in the ALS patients, with R values ranging from 0.33 to 0.44. There was no significant difference for patients with and without facial weakness. There were no reported adverse events. EIT-based pulmonary measures hold the promise of providing an alternative approach for lung function assessment in ALS patients. Based on these early results, further development and study of this technology are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to habitual poor posture and body movements, many people develop musculoskeletal disorders and experience changes in their body shape. This study aims to investigate the effects of muscle balance therapy on the improvement of body imbalances and vital capacity by applying them to the short & long lock muscles, which are imbalanced due to pelvic anterior tilt. As a result of the treatments, the muscle tone test reveals alleviation of muscle shortening in the upper trapezius, rectus femoris, and hamstrings, and the body imbalance test demonstrates that cervical, thoracic, pelvic, and knee tilts are aligned more closely with the sagittal vertical axis (0 degrees). These findings suggest that muscle balance treatments can positively affect the improvement of body imbalances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to identify the contribution of some anthropometric measurements and pulmonary volumes to the Numerical Achievement of runners in the 800-meter running event at Palestine. The study was conducted on a purposely-designed sample of (17) runners in Palestine, aged between (18-22) years. The researchers used the descriptive analytical approach because it suits the nature of the study. Anthropometric measurements were performed related to (age, body mass, height, arm length, leg length, thigh length, lower leg length, instep length, chest circumference, chest circumference with inspiration, abdominal circumference, thigh circumference, and Leg calf, upper arm circumference, and related Pulmonary volume measurements. Related Pulmonary volume measurements were performed (VC, FVC, FEV1, FWV1/FVC%, MVV, TV, RV), and after the data was collected, it was processed statistically using SPSS. The results of the study showed that the anthropometric measurement that have the most contribution In the Numerical Achievement of 800 meters running event runners in Palestine was Height, which contributed to explaining (43.1 %) of the finishing time. The study also found that Pulmonary volume measurements contributed most to the Numerical Achievement For runners of the 800-meter running event in Palestine, was Vital Capacity (VC)which explained (39.1%) of the time Achievement. Researchers recommend that the predictive equations that have been developed should be used as predictors for the numerical achievement of the 800-meter running event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is assessed through serial monitoring of forced vital capacity (FVC). Currently, data regarding the clinical significance of longitudinal changes in diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) is lacking. We investigated the prognostic implications of a 1-year decline in DLCO in 319 patients newly diagnosed with IPF at a tertiary hospital between January 2010 and December 2020. Changes in FVC and DLCO over the first year after the initial diagnosis were reviewed; a decline in FVC ≥ 5% and DLCO ≥ 10% predicted were considered significant changes. During the first year after diagnosis, a significant decline in FVC and DLCO was observed in 101 (31.7%) and 64 (20.1%) patients, respectively. Multivariable analysis showed that a 1-year decline in FVC ≥ 5% predicted (aHR 2.74, 95% CI 1.88–4.00) and 1-year decline in DLCO ≥ 10% predicted (aHR 2.31, 95% CI 1.47–3.62) were independently associated with a higher risk of subsequent mortality. The prognostic impact of a decline in DLCO remained significant regardless of changes in FVC, presence of emphysema, or radiographic indications of pulmonary hypertension. Therefore, serial monitoring of DLCO should be recommended because it may offer additional prognostic information compared with monitoring of FVC alone.

Introduction: Dysphagia is a common complication in patients with cervical spinal cord injury (C-SCI) and can cause various pulmonary complications, such as aspiration pneumonia and mechanical airway obstruction increasing mortality and morbidity. This study evaluated the clinical factors that predict dysphagia in patients with traumatic and non-traumatic C-SCI. Methods: Ninety-eight patients with C-SCI were retrospectively enrolled in this study and were divided into those with and without dysphagia. Clinical factors such as age, sex, tracheostomy, spinal cord independence measure, pulmonary function test (PFT) including forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and FVC/FEV1, American Spinal Cord Injury Association score, Berg Balance Scale, and surgical approach were investigated retrospectively. Results: Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that FVC and the presence of tracheostomy were significantly correlated with dysphagia in patients with C-SCI (p < 0.05). FVC and the presence of tracheostomy are useful tools for detecting dysphagia in patients with C-SCI. Conclusion: Considering the results of our study, early PFTs, especially FVC, in patients with C-SCI and early initiation of dysphagia management and treatment in patients with C-SCI and tracheostomy will be advantageous in lowering the mortality and morbidity due to pulmonary aspiration in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In study after study, marijuana use has been found to be associated with increased forced vital capacity (FVC). This is puzzling, because marijuana is commonly consumed by inhalation of its smoke, and smoke exposure of any kind is not generally considered a cause of increased FVC. Although this observation was first made decades ago, a satisfactory explanation remains elusive. In this review we survey the evidence supporting the relationship between marijuana use and increased FVC, discuss potential threats to validity when inferring causation, and, presupposing a possible causal relationship, pose two key questions. First, what are possible physiologic or pathophysiologic mechanisms by which marijuana use might increase FVC? Second, why might this effect be consistently observed with marijuana use but not with tobacco use? Explanations for the first question include lung and chest growth and remodeling from strenuous marijuana smoke inhalation and reductions in lung elastic recoil from marijuana smoke exposure. Explanations for the second include differences between marijuana and tobacco in smoke composition and patterns of consumption, such as smoking topography. Finally, the possibility that smoke, whether from marijuana or tobacco, might have nonmonotonic effects on FVC depending on the degree of exposure is explored. In synthesizing a curated breadth of epidemiologic and physiologic science, we leverage a perplexing observation to generate potential insights and avenues for further research into the biological effects of smoke, from marijuana or otherwise, on the respiratory system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Science of Gymnastics Journal is the property of Science of Gymnastics Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is assessed through serial monitoring of forced vital capacity (FVC). Currently, data regarding the clinical significance of longitudinal changes in diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) is lacking. We investigated the prognostic implications of a 1-year decline in DLCO in 319 patients newly diagnosed with IPF at a tertiary hospital between January 2010 and December 2020. Changes in FVC and DLCO over the first year after the initial diagnosis were reviewed; a decline in FVC ≥ 5% and DLCO ≥ 10% predicted were considered significant changes. During the first year after diagnosis, a significant decline in FVC and DLCO was observed in 101 (31.7%) and 64 (20.1%) patients, respectively. Multivariable analysis showed that a 1-year decline in FVC ≥ 5% predicted (aHR 2.74, 95% CI 1.88–4.00) and 1-year decline in DLCO ≥ 10% predicted (aHR 2.31, 95% CI 1.47–3.62) were independently associated with a higher risk of subsequent mortality. The prognostic impact of a decline in DLCO remained significant regardless of changes in FVC, presence of emphysema, or radiographic indications of pulmonary hypertension. Therefore, serial monitoring of DLCO should be recommended because it may offer additional prognostic information compared with monitoring of FVC alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study investigates if an inpatient rehabilitation therapy (brace therapy and Schroth therapy) for six weeks contributes to an improvement in lung function of the patients. Design: Retrospective study. Setting: Scoliosis rehabilitation clinic “Asklepios Katharina-Schroth-Klinik” (Bad Sobernheim, Germany). Participants: In 253 female patients a lung function examination was performed at entry and at the end of their inpatient rehabilitation stay. Of these, 61 patients underwent Schroth therapy (group 1); 192 patients underwent the combination of brace and Schroth therapy (group 2). Intervention: Lung function parameters under the influence of Schroth and Schroth and brace therapy within a rehabilitative stay. Main measures: The parameters of IVC (inspiratory vital capacity), FVC (forced vital capacity), FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in 1 s) and the Tiffeneau index (FEV/FVC) related to patient-specific reference values were evaluated with regard to potential ventilation disorders. Results: There were significant improvements for IVC +2.56 %, FVC +3.99 %, FEV1 +2.36 % for the first stay (IVC and FVC 2nd, 3rd stay). The comparison of patients with vs. without additional brace therapy showed no significances. For the long-term analysis the parameters approached the reference values of age-matched, healthy female subjects. The greater the Cobb angle in the thoracic region, the significantly worse almost each of the measured parameters are. Conclusion: An inpatient rehabilitation therapy contributes to an improvement in lung function (IVC, FVC and FEV1). A second, and even a third, follow-up stay still led to a measurable improvement in lung function, albeit to a lesser extent.

Background/objective: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a diagnosis that incorporates a heterogeneous set of neurodegenerative processes into a single progressive and uniformly fatal disease making the development of a uniformly applicable therapeutic difficult. Recent multinational ALS natural history incidence studies have identified systemic chronic activation of the innate immune system as a major risk factor for developing ALS. Persistent immune activation in patients with ALS leads to loss of muscle and lowering of serum creatinine. The goal of the current study was to test whether the slowing of nerve and muscle destruction in NP001-treated ALS patients compared with controls in phase 2 studies would lead to extension of survival. Methods: Phase 2 clinical studies with NP001, an intravenously administered form of the innate immune system regulator NaClO2, are now reporting long-term survival benefits for drug recipients vs. placebo controls after only six months of intermittent treatment. As a prodrug, NP001 is converted by macrophages to taurine chloramine, a long-lived regulator of inflammation. We performed a pooled analysis of all patients who had completed the studies in two six-month NP001 phase 2 trials. Changes in respiratory vital capacity and the muscle mass product, creatinine, defined treated patients who, compared to placebo, had up to a year of extended survival. Conclusions: The observed longer survival in ALS patients with the greatest inflammation-associated muscle loss provides further evidence that ALS is a disease of ongoing innate immune dysfunction and that NP001 is a disease-modifying drug with sustained clinical activity.

Background: Hyperkyphosis tends to increase with age. Hyperkyphosis can negatively affect the quality of life and physical function. Poor balance and decreased muscle have been found to be frequently reported in older adults with hyperkyphosis. The multidimensional exercise programs that include strengthening, flexibility, and postural control are used to correct thoracic posture in older adults. Purpose: The present study aims to systematically evaluate the existing literature on the effect of exercise programs on posture, balance, gait, muscle strength, pulmonary function, and quality of life in hyperkyphotic older adults. Methods: This systematic review adhered to PRISMA guidelines and was registered to PROSPERO. Electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and ERIC) were searched till 31 December 2022. Four thousand six hundred twenty studies were obtained using different keywords, and a further selection of studies was based on inclusion criteria. The quality of studies was assessed through the physiotherapy evidence database scale (PEDro). Results: Eight studies met the eligibility criteria, and the mean score of selected studies on PEDro was 7 out of 10. All studies were pretest–post-test designs, and they involved a total of 463 participants. All included studies measured thoracic kyphosis angle. In selected studies, exercise frequency varied from 2 to 3 days a week, and the duration of exercise sessions varied from 60 to 90 min. Conclusions: This systematic review concludes that exercises are effective in improving posture. Due to limited and inadequate data availability, it was not possible to estimate the effect of exercise on muscle strength, pulmonary function, gait, and quality of life in older adults with hyperkyphosis. Hence, this systemic review suggests that there is a need for additional high-quality RCTs in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical training and fitness are important aspects in an athlete's readiness to achieve optimal performance in their sport. One important indicator of fitness is vital lung capacity, which measures the maximum amount of air that can be moved into and out of the lungs. The aim of this study was to investigate the optimization of vital lung capacity as a strategy to improve athlete fitness. This study used qualitative research methods. The data collection technique in this research is literature study. The data that has been collected is then analyzed in three stages, namely data reduction, data presentation and drawing conclusions. The research results show that optimizing lung capacity to improve athlete fitness can be done through several methods, including breathing exercises, physical training and aerobic training. Increasing vital lung capacity can also help minimize the risk of injury, as a stronger respiratory system is able to prevent excessive fatigue. Overall, this can have a positive impact on athletes' achievements, both at national, regional and international levels, as well as representing the country, region or institution they are fighting for. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess the relationship among measurements of strength, function, and quality of life in an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) clinical trial. In the FORTITUDE-ALS clinical trial (NCT03160898), 456 participants in the full-analysis set were treated with either reldesemtiv or placebo for 12 weeks; this post hoc analysis included all participants regardless of treatment assignments. Assessments included slow vital capacity (SVC), the ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R), and the 5-item ALS Assessment Questionnaire (ALSAQ-5). Muscle strength was measured quantitatively with hand-held dynamometry, and grip strength with a dedicated dynamometer. The relationship between strength and ALSFRS-R fine and gross motor domain scores, or responses to ALSAQ-5 questions on hand function and walking, was assessed with Spearman's rank correlation. The relationship between mean upper- or lower-extremity muscle strength and specific ALSFRS-R domains was modeled using principal-components analysis. Upper-extremity muscle strength and hand grip were highly correlated with ALSFRS-R fine motor scores and the ALSAQ-5 hand function question. Similarly, lower-extremity strength correlated well with ALSFRS-R gross motor domain and the ALSAQ-5 walking question. For SVC, correlation was poor with the ALSFRS-R respiratory domain, but stronger with the total score, potentially reflecting the insensitivity of the respiratory questions in the scale. Upper- and lower-extremity strength were both strong predictors of ALSFRS-R domain scores. In this analysis of data from an ALS clinical trial, muscle strength quantified by dynamometry was strongly correlated with functional capacity. These results suggest that muscle strength directly relates to specific functions of importance to people with ALS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic empyema thoracis is a debilitating illness with high morbidity and, and is seen among all age groups. Our objective was to review all cases of chronic empyema thoracis treated by lung decortication and highlight the outcome. Methods: 86 patients with chronic empyema thoracis were admitted and managed in our thoracic surgery unit who underwent surgery of lung decortication through posterolateral thoracotomy. Results: Forced expiratory volume in 1sec (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) were significantly increased in postoperative than preoperative. There had significant improvement in the pre, post values of the lung volume on the diseased side and both lungs. Conclusions: Lung decortication is followed by a significant improvement in spirometric parameters and CT findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stroke disrupts the functions carried out by the brain such as the control of movement, sensation, and cognition. Disruption of movement control results in hemiparesis that affects the function of the diaphragm. Impaired function of the diaphragmcan in turn affectmany outcomes such as respiratory, cognitive, and motor function. The aim of this study is to carry out a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the efficacy of diaphragmatic breathing exercise on respiratory, cognitive, and motor outcomes after stroke. Method: The study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023422293). PubMED, Embase, Web of Science (WoS), PEDro, Scopus, and CENTRAL databases were searched until September 2023. Only randomized controlled trials comparing diaphragmatic breathing exercise with a control were included. Information on the study authors, time since stroke, mean age, height, weight, sex, and the protocols of the experimental and control interventions including intensity, mean scores on the outcomes such as respiratory, cognitive, andmotor functions were extracted. Cochrane risks of bias assessment tool and PEDro scale were used to assess the risks of bias and methodological quality of the studies. Narrative synthesis and meta-analysis were used to summarize the results, which were then presented in tables, risk-of-bias graph, and forest plots. The meta-analysis was carried out on respiratory function [forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), FEV1/FVC, peak expiratory flow (PEF)] and motor function (trunk impairment, and internal and external oblique muscles activity). Results: Six studies consisting of 151 participants were included. The results of themeta-analyses showed that diaphragmatic breathing exercise is only superior to the control at improving respiratory function, FVC (MD = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.76 to 1.04, P < 0.00001), FEV1 (MD = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.11 to 0.52, P = 0.002), and PEF (MD = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.15 to 1.81, P < 0.00001). Conclusion: There is limited evidence suggesting that diaphragmatic breathing exercise may help enhance respiratory function, which may help enhance recovery of function post stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: College students are the future of a nation; education community needs to prioritize students' health issues. Method: This article compares the measurement data of cardiovascular function, bone density, body composition, and physical fitness between female college students in the exercise group and the control group before and after 12 weeks, in order to explore the impact of basketball on human morphology and physiological function. This can provide more methods and scientific basis for students to enhance their physical fitness and promote physical health. Results: The exercise group's lung capacity after the experiment was 2517ml, and the control group's lung capacity after the experiment was 2357ml. Conclusion: This article has important practical significance in promoting the improvement of college students' physical fitness, and can also provide reference for ordinary higher education institutions to offer various sports courses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vital capacity (VC) tests are an important tool in assessing the functioning of the respiratory system. Low levels of vital capacity can indicate health problems such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and other respiratory conditions. The volume of VC depends on many factors, especially the strength of the respiratory muscles, body and chest structure, lung and chest compliance, airway patency, gender, environmental factors, and physical activity. The aim of this study is to determine the level of vital capacity (VC) in girls and boys aged 10-13 who practice trampoline jumping, and to compare the results with reference values for a given gender and age category. The research was conducted among 100 trampoline jumpers (including 57 girls and 43 boys) aged 10-13. As part of the research, spirometric measurement was performed using the portable EasyOne model 2001 spirometer. The obtained results were then compared to reference values calculated on the basis of a study by the European Respiratory Society. The average level of vital capacity in the girls aged 10 was 2.2 liters, in 11-year-olds - 2.45 l, in 12-year-olds 2.54 l, and in 13-year-olds it was 3.02 l. The average level of vital capacity of the examined boys aged 10 was 2.36 l, in 11-year-olds 2.56 l, in 12-year-olds 2.89 l, and in 13-year-olds 3.33 l. These research results indicate that trampoline jumpers show a VC value within the reference values (between the LLN and ULN values). The girls stand out with higher percentage of predicted values for VC at the age of 11 (95.26%) and 13 (100.34%), in comparison with boys at the age of 10 (96.38%) and 12 (96.23%).

Abstract Background The widely reported associations between body mass index (BMI) and various chronic diseases, such as hypertension and asthma, have garnered significant attention. Nonetheless, there remains a dearth of research dedicated to understanding the health impacts of medical school on the students, who experience considerable academic pressure. In that context, this study was driven by the goal of investigating the intricate interplay between BMI, blood pressure (BP), and vital capacity among medical students. Methods This study included a cohort of 843 medical students enrolled at Southern Medical University who were selected through random cluster sampling. Within this cohort, measurements of height, weight, BP, and vital capacity were taken. Subsequently, both BMI and vital capacity index (VCI) were calculated for each participant. By categorizing the subjects into four groups according to BMI classifications, a comprehensive analysis that included correlation assessments and binomial logistic regression was conducted. Results Within the participant pool, 9.4% and 3.8% of participants were classified as overweight and obese, respectively. Additionally, the prevalence of prehypertension, hypertension, and poor VCI was 18.1%, 2.7%, and 13.5%, respectively. Notably, male students exhibited a higher prevalence of the aforementioned health issues than their female counterparts. Correlation analysis revealed that BMI displayed positive associations with systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and vital capacity (r = 0.372, 0.257, 0.428; P

Presently, in the research processes involved in analysing the relationship between smoking and vital capacity, most researchers use statistical software to analyse, count the differences of vital capacity between different groups and carry out linear analysis or regression analysis. They cannot deeply analyse the relationship between the data, nor can they get the correlation of the data itself. Considering these limitations, this paper studies the influence of adolescent smoking on physical training vital capacity in eastern coastal areas. Based on the brief introduction of the research progress of data mining algorithm, and taking the teenagers in the eastern coastal area as the research object, the k-means algorithm and decision tree algorithm are applied to the data mining of vital capacity of physical training, after which we classify and reclassify the data, mine the rules between the data and put forward improvement strategies for the shortcomings of the algorithm itself. Finally, experiments are designed to analyse the accuracy, running time and reliability of the algorithm. The experimental results show that the improved k-means algorithm and decision tree algorithm shorten the running time and enhance the stability, and can realise the classification and mining of vital capacity data of physical training, so as to improve the reliability of experimental result analysis.

BackgroundStroke disrupts the functions carried out by the brain such as the control of movement, sensation, and cognition. Disruption of movement control results in hemiparesis that affects the function of the diaphragm. Impaired function of the diaphragm can in turn affect many outcomes such as respiratory, cognitive, and motor function. The aim of this study is to carry out a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the efficacy of diaphragmatic breathing exercise on respiratory, cognitive, and motor outcomes after stroke.MethodThe study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023422293). PubMED, Embase, Web of Science (WoS), PEDro, Scopus, and CENTRAL databases were searched until September 2023. Only randomized controlled trials comparing diaphragmatic breathing exercise with a control were included. Information on the study authors, time since stroke, mean age, height, weight, sex, and the protocols of the experimental and control interventions including intensity, mean scores on the outcomes such as respiratory, cognitive, and motor functions were extracted. Cochrane risks of bias assessment tool and PEDro scale were used to assess the risks of bias and methodological quality of the studies. Narrative synthesis and meta-analysis were used to summarize the results, which were then presented in tables, risk-of-bias graph, and forest plots. The meta-analysis was carried out on respiratory function [forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), FEV1/FVC, peak expiratory flow (PEF)] and motor function (trunk impairment, and internal and external oblique muscles activity).ResultsSix studies consisting of 151 participants were included. The results of the meta-analyses showed that diaphragmatic breathing exercise is only superior to the control at improving respiratory function, FVC (MD = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.76 to 1.04, P < 0.00001), FEV1 (MD = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.11 to 0.52, P = 0.002), and PEF (MD = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.15 to 1.81, P < 0.00001).ConclusionThere is limited evidence suggesting that diaphragmatic breathing exercise may help enhance respiratory function, which may help enhance recovery of function post stroke.Systematic Review RegistrationPROSPERO, identifier CRD42023422293.

Background and Objectives: Preoperative respiratory muscle training (RMT) for patients undergoing surgical treatment for myasthenia gravis (MG) has not been shown to improve postoperative complications. The purpose of this research was to analyse the effects of RMT and aerobic exercise on respiration, physical activity, and hospital stay in patients with MG prior to surgery. Methods: Ninety patients with MG who were having a prolonged thymectomy were split into two groups at random. In the SG, 45 participants underwent preoperative moderate-to-intense RMT in addition to aerobic exercise and respiratory physiotherapy, while the CG received only chest physiotherapy. Patients' vital capacities (VC, FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, and PEF) and exercise capacities (6-minute walk test [6 MWT]) were assessed prior to surgery, during recovery, and immediately prior to discharge. Both length of hospital stay and "activities of daily living" (ADL) scores were calculated. Result: Vital capacity, exercise capacity, and demographic and surgical characteristics were similar across the two groups before surgery. While the FEV1/FVC ratio did not change significantly from pre- to post-op in the CG, all measures of lung function (VC, FVC, FEV1, PEF, and 6MWT) were significantly worse after surgery (p=0.001). After surgery, the SG had significantly better VC, FVC, FEV1, and PEF than the CG did (p=0.012, 0.030, 0.014, and 0.035 respectively), while having similar 6MWT results. On day 5 post-op, SG ADL was significantly greater than CG ADL (p=0.001). Conclusion: Recovery from surgery for people with MG can speed up with the help of respiratory muscle training (RMT) and aerobic exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Surrogate endpoints enable determination of meaningful treatment effects more efficiently than applying the endpoint of ultimate interest. We used data from trials of nintedanib in subjects with pulmonary fibrosis to assess decline in forced vital capacity (FVC) as a surrogate for mortality. Methods: Data from the nintedanib and placebo groups of trials in subjects with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, other forms of progressive pulmonary fibrosis, and pulmonary fibrosis due to systemic sclerosis (NCT00514683, NCT01335464, NCT01335477, NCT01979952, NCT02999178, NCT02597933) were pooled. Using joint models for longitudinal and time‐to‐event data, we assessed the association between decline in FVC % predicted and time to death over 52 weeks. The rate of change in FVC % predicted and the current value of FVC % predicted were modelled longitudinally and estimates applied as predictors in time‐to‐event models. Results: Among 2583 subjects with pulmonary fibrosis, both a greater rate of decline in FVC % predicted and a lower current value of FVC % predicted were associated with an increased risk of death over 52 weeks (HR 1.79 [95% CI: 1.57, 2.03] and HR 1.24 [1.17, 1.32] per 5‐percentage point decrease, respectively). Associations between the rate of change in FVC % predicted and the risk of death were consistent between patients with IPF and other ILDs. Conclusion: Data from clinical trials in subjects with pulmonary fibrosis of diverse aetiology demonstrate a strong association between decline in FVC % predicted and mortality over 52 weeks, supporting FVC decline as a surrogate for mortality in these patients. We used data from clinical trials of nintedanib in subjects with pulmonary fibrosis of diverse aetiology to demonstrate a strong association between decline in FVC per cent predicted and mortality over 52 weeks, supporting the use of FVC decline as a surrogate for mortality in clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research article investigates the impact of obesity on respiratory function in young adults, specifically examining gender differences. The study finds that individuals who are obese, regardless of gender, are more likely to develop respiratory comorbidities in the future. However, obese females are found to be more vulnerable than obese males. The study emphasizes the importance of promoting physical fitness among young people to reduce the risk of respiratory issues later in life. [Extracted from the article]

This literature review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of rituximab (RTX) in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). PubMed was searched for articles, published through 31 March 2022, on any controlled studies using RTX in the treatment of SSc. Of 85 identified articles, 9 were selected by title/abstract screening and full text examination. All nine articles reported outcomes of forced vital capacity (%FVC), and seven reported those of modified Rodnan skin scores (mRSS). The results showed that among the seven controlled studies evaluating skin lesions in patients with SSc, four showed a significant improvement of mRSS by RTX when compared with a control group, whereas three showed no significant effect. Among the nine controlled studies evaluating lung lesions, five showed a significant improvement of %FVC compared with a control group, whereas four showed no significant effect. In conclusion, RTX may be effective in the treatment of skin and lung lesions in patients with SSc. The profiles of SSc patients for whom RTX was indicated were unclear, although patients with diffuse cutaneous SSc and those positive for anti-topoisomerase I antibody were considered potential targets. Additional studies are needed to assess the long-term effectiveness of RTX in the treatment of patients with SSc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The widely reported associations between body mass index (BMI) and various chronic diseases, such as hypertension and asthma, have garnered significant attention. Nonetheless, there remains a dearth of research dedicated to understanding the health impacts of medical school on the students, who experience considerable academic pressure. In that context, this study was driven by the goal of investigating the intricate interplay between BMI, blood pressure (BP), and vital capacity among medical students. Methods: This study included a cohort of 843 medical students enrolled at Southern Medical University who were selected through random cluster sampling. Within this cohort, measurements of height, weight, BP, and vital capacity were taken. Subsequently, both BMI and vital capacity index (VCI) were calculated for each participant. By categorizing the subjects into four groups according to BMI classifications, a comprehensive analysis that included correlation assessments and binomial logistic regression was conducted. Results: Within the participant pool, 9.4% and 3.8% of participants were classified as overweight and obese, respectively. Additionally, the prevalence of prehypertension, hypertension, and poor VCI was 18.1%, 2.7%, and 13.5%, respectively. Notably, male students exhibited a higher prevalence of the aforementioned health issues than their female counterparts. Correlation analysis revealed that BMI displayed positive associations with systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and vital capacity (r = 0.372, 0.257, 0.428; P < 0.001). However, an inverse correlation emerged between BMI and VCI (r = -0.284, P < 0.001). Further analysis revealed that overweight and obese individuals faced an elevated risk of high blood pressure ([OR 2.05, 95% CI 1.15–3.67] and [OR 5.44, 95% CI 2.28–13.02], respectively) compared to their normal-weight counterparts. Moreover, these groups also exhibited a higher risk of poor VCI ([OR 5.25, 95% CI 3.04–9.06] and [OR 15.61, 95% CI 6.81–35.81], respectively), while underweight subjects experienced a reduced risk ([OR 0.19, 95% CI 0.07–0.52]). Conclusions: BMI demonstrated a notably strong positive correlation with both BP and vital capacity and a negative correlation with VCI. Therefore, for medical students as well as the daily health care of patients, weight control is recommended to better combat obesity-related diseases, for example, cardiopulmonary diseases, gout and diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Preoxygenation during anesthesia can be done by 3 min tidal volume breath and eight vital capacity breath in 1 min, conventionally. Population of our country is not homogenous. Aims and Objectives: The present study was conducted to validate preoxygenation processes in people of eastern India. Materials and Methods: Total 140 patients of ASA grade I and II, age group 20–50 posted for surgeries under GA were allotted in TV and VC group. Every odd number and even number patient was tested for TV method and VC method, respectively, with a Magill circuit and airtight face mask with 100% oxygen flow at a rate of 10 L/min. Time and number of breaths were noted when end tidal oxygen concentration ≥90% in TV and VC group, respectively. Results: In TV method, the mean time (in minute) was 3.10±0.27 and 3.13±0.24 for tribal and non-tribal sub-group (P=0.80); 3.02±0.37 and 3.10±0.27 for tribal and non-tribal male (P=0.57); and 3.18±0.05 and 3.16±0.21 for tribal and non-tribal female (P=0.57). In VC method, mean number of VC breaths was 8.32±0.60 and 8.43±0.74 for tribal and non-tribal sub-group (P=0.76); 8.75±0.49 and 8.23±0.70 for tribal and non-tribal male (P=0.42); and 8.20±0.60 and 8.60±0.72 for tribal and non-tribal female (P=0.16). Patients completing preoxygenation in TV and VC method – tribal: 22% and 53%, non-tribal: 4% and 62%, tribal male: 22% and 20%, non-tribal male: 8% and 68%, tribal female: 0% and 60%, and non-tribal female: 0 and 57%, respectively. Conclusion: No significant difference found between tribal and non-tribal groups of both sexes in each method. Completion of preoxygenation was higher in VC group, though not tested statistically.

Abstract Objective The effects of preoperative respiratory muscle training (RMT) on postoperative complications in patients surgically treated for myasthenia gravis (MG) remain unclear. The present study therefore evaluated the effects of preoperative moderate-to-intense RMT and aerobic exercise, when added to respiratory physiotherapy, on respiratory vital capacity, exercise capacity, and duration of hospital stay in patients with MG. Methods Eighty patients with MG scheduled for extended thymectomy were randomly divided into two groups. The 40 subjects in the study group (SG) received preoperative moderate-to-intense RMT and aerobic exercise in addition to respiratory physiotherapy, whereas the 40 subjects in the control group (CG) received only chest physiotherapy. Respiratory vital capacity (as determined by VC, FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, and PEF) and exercise capacity (as determined by the 6-min walk test [6 MWT]) were measured pre- and postoperatively and before discharge. The duration of hospital stay and activity of daily living (ADL) were also determined. Results Demographic and surgical characteristics, along with preoperative vital capacity and exercise capacity, were similar in the two groups. In the CG, VC (p = 0.001), FVC (p = 0.001), FEV1 (p = 0.002), PEF (p = 0.004), and 6MWT (p = 0.041) were significantly lower postoperatively than preoperatively, whereas the FEV1/FVC ratio did not differ significantly. Postoperative VC (p = 0.012), FVC (p = 0.030), FEV1 (p = 0.014), and PEF (p = 0.035) were significantly higher in the SG than in the CG, although 6MWT results did not differ. ADL on postoperative day 5 was significantly higher in the SG than in the CG (p = 0.001). Conclusion RMT and aerobic exercise can have positive effects on postoperative respiratory vital capacity and daily life activity, and would enhance recovery after surgery in MG patients.

Summary: Background: While the adverse effects of short-term ambient ozone exposure on lung function are well-documented, the impact of long-term exposure remains poorly understood, especially in adults. Methods: We aimed to investigate the association between long-term ozone exposure and lung function decline. The 3014 participants were drawn from 17 centers across eight countries, all of which were from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS). Spirometry was conducted to measure pre-bronchodilation forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) at approximately 35, 44, and 55 years of age. We assigned annual mean values of daily maximum running 8-h average ozone concentrations to individual residential addresses. Adjustments were made for PM2.5, NO2, and greenness. To capture the ozone-related change in spirometric parameters, our linear mixed effects regression models included an interaction term between long-term ozone exposure and age. Findings: Mean ambient ozone concentrations were approximately 65 μg/m³. A one interquartile range increase of 7 μg/m³ in ozone was associated with a faster decline in FEV1 of −2.08 mL/year (95% confidence interval: −2.79, −1.36) and in FVC of −2.86 mL/year (−3.73, −1.99) mL/year over the study period. Associations were robust after adjusting for PM2.5, NO2, and greenness. The associations were more pronounced in residents of northern Europe and individuals who were older at baseline. No consistent associations were detected with the FEV1/FVC ratio. Interpretation: Long-term exposure to elevated ambient ozone concentrations was associated with a faster decline of spirometric lung function among middle-aged European adults over a 20-year period. Funding: German Research Foundation.

Purpose: Taichi Chuan was previously shown to benefit physical health, but the results were inconsistent. The main reason is that the mechanism is not clear and may be interpreted differently. In this systematic review, we analyzed the data obtained from various randomized controlled trials to identify the effectiveness of Taichi Chuan and the mechanism by which it improves the physical health of adults. Methods: We systematically searched various databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, EBSCO Host, Science Direct, CNKI, Wan-Fang, and VPCS, and obtained 1448 articles for review. The articles were selected following the PICO eligibility criteria. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to interpret the results of the different studies. Results: We included 16 studies in the systematic review. Six of them were of very high quality, ten were of acceptable quality. Overall, the results showed that Taichi Chuan is beneficial to physical fitness, but not all indices supported this statement. Specifically, the effects were significant on Balance (ES = − 0.33; P = 0.02), BMI (ES = − 0.83; P

Patients with neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) develop respiratory impairment as muscles weaken. Ensuing complications include reductions in lung volume, compliance, and cough ability and increased risk for lung infections. Sleep disordered breathing results from weakened upper airway muscles and/or impaired central ventilatory control systems. Evaluation includes measurement of seated and supine vital capacity (VC) and respiratory muscle strength. Assisted cough techniques facilitate airway clearance. The decision to initiate assisted ventilation is multifactorial, and may include consideration of patient symptoms, spirometry, pulmonary pressures, sleep studies or blood gas values. Most patients prefer noninvasive ventilation to enhance mobility and independence. Tracheostomy is indicated when bulbar function is impaired and cough assist measures fail to clear the airway. Technological advances in respiratory support have improved quality of life and longevity. Home care is the best option for most patients but remains a challenge, especially for caregivers with regard to physical, emotional, and financial implications, as well as social, administrative, and insurance concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Although Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) affects the connective tissue, pulmonary function might be compromised because of thoracic deformities. OI is known to be a restrictive lung disease, but spirometry provides global measurement without localizing the site of the restriction. Opto-electronic plethysmography (OEP), is a non-invasive method able to underline altered respiratory function as well as ventilatory thoraco-abdominal paradoxes during spontaneous breathing. We aimed to reconstruct the thoraco-abdominal surface, to perform local analyses of trunk motion and to make quantitative comparison of trunk shape and respiratory kinematics according to OI severity, particularly during maximal inspiratory and expiratory expansions. This is a cross-sectional study where we have studied the thoraco-abdominal compartmental analysis in 26 adult OI patients (14 Type III) at rest and during vital capacity manoeuvre using OEP. We have also applied a new method that created realistic and accurate 3D models to perform local analyses of trunk motion and to make quantitative comparison of trunk shape and respiratory kinematics. Results Type III patients were characterized by lower spirometric lung volume, by lower sleep quality, by a more compressed thoracic configuration aggravated by severe scoliosis, by reduced global expansion at rest and during maximal maneuvers because of the reduced expansion of the pulmonary ribcage at rest (12% vs. 65% in healthy subjects), during maximal inspiration (37% vs. 69%) and expiration (16% vs. 68%) with local paradoxical movement occurring on the side of the ribcage region. Conclusion The kinematics of the trunk changed to compensate for the severe structural deformities by shifting the expansion in the abdomen both at rest and during maximal manoeuvre because of a restricted thorax. For the first time, we have quantified and localized the site of the restriction in OI patients in the lateral part of the thorax. The 3D analysis proposed seemed a promising graphical immediate new method for pathophysiology study of chest wall restriction.

Background and Objectives: The current study aimed to better understand the changes in respiration that occur with aging in men and women to provide accurate recommendations for breathing exercises to improve health. Materials and Methods: A total of 610 healthy subjects, aged 20 to 59, participated in the study. They performed quiet breathing while wearing two respiration belts (Vernier, Beaverton, OR, USA) at the height of the navel and at the xiphoid process to record abdominal motion (AM) and thoracic motion (TM), respectively. Vital capacity, representing maximal inhalation movement, was measured using a spirometer (Xindonghuateng, Beijing, China). After exclusion, 565 subjects (164 men, aged 41 ± 11; 401 women, aged 42 ± 9) were included for statistical analysis using the Kruskal–Wallis U test and stepwise multiple linear regression. Results: Abdominal motion and its contribution to spontaneous breathing were significantly larger for older men, while the contribution of thoracic motion was smaller for older men. There was no significant difference in thoracic motion between the younger and older men. The differences in women's respiratory movements among various ages were mild and negligible. The contribution of thoracic motion to spontaneous breathing in women was larger than in men for those of older ages (40–59 years), but not for those of younger ages (20–39 years). Additionally, men's and women's vital capacities were less in those of older ages, and the men's were larger than the women's. Conclusions: The findings indicate that men's abdominal contribution to spontaneous breathing increased from 20 to 59 years of age due to increased abdominal motion. Women's respiratory movements did not change much with aging. The maximal inhalation movement became smaller with aging for men and women. Healthcare professionals should focus on improving thoracic mobility when addressing health concerns about aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To assess associations between the extent of fibrotic interstitial lung disease (ILD) and forced vital capacity (FVC) at baseline and change in FVC over 52 weeks in patients with systemic sclerosis-associated ILD (SSc-ILD) in the SENSCIS trial. Material and methods We used generalized additive models, which involve few assumptions and allow for interaction between non-linear effects, to assess associations between the extent of fibrotic ILD on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), and the interplay of extent of fibrotic ILD on HRCT and FVC % predicted, at baseline and FVC decline over 52 weeks. Results In the placebo group (n  = 288), there was weak evidence of a modest association between a greater extent of fibrotic ILD at baseline and a greater decline in FVC % predicted at week 52 [r: –0.09 (95% CI –0.2, 0.03)]. Higher values of both the extent of fibrotic ILD and FVC % predicted at baseline tended to be associated with greater decline in FVC % predicted at week 52. In the nintedanib group (n  = 288), there was no evidence of an association between the extent of fibrotic ILD at baseline and decline in FVC % predicted at week 52 [r: 0.01 (95% CI: -0.11, 0.12)] or between the interplay of extent of fibrotic ILD and FVC % predicted at baseline and decline in FVC % predicted at week 52. Conclusions Data from the SENSCIS trial suggest that patients with SSc-ILD are at risk of ILD progression and benefit from nintedanib largely irrespective of their extent of fibrotic ILD at baseline. Study registration ClinicalTrials.gov, https://clinicaltrials.gov , NCT02597933. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Preoxygenation during anesthesia can be done by 3 min tidal volume breath and eight vital capacity breath in 1 min, conventionally. Population of our country is not homogenous. Aims and Objectives: The present study was conducted to validate preoxygenation processes in people of eastern India. Materials and Methods: Total 140 patients of ASA grade I and II, age group 20–50 posted for surgeries under GA were allotted in TV and VC group. Every odd number and even number patient was tested for TV method and VC method, respectively, with a Magill circuit and airtight face mask with 100% oxygen flow at a rate of 10 L/min. Time and number of breaths were noted when end tidal oxygen concentration ≥90% in TV and VC group, respectively. Results: In TV method, the mean time (in minute) was 3.10±0.27 and 3.13±0.24 for tribal and non-tribal sub-group (P=0.80); 3.02±0.37 and 3.10±0.27 for tribal and non-tribal male (P=0.57); and 3.18±0.05 and 3.16±0.21 for tribal and non-tribal female (P=0.57). In VC method, mean number of VC breaths was 8.32±0.60 and 8.43±0.74 for tribal and non-tribal subgroup (P=0.76); 8.75±0.49 and 8.23±0.70 for tribal and non-tribal male (P=0.42); and 8.20±0.60 and 8.60±0.72 for tribal and non-tribal female (P=0.16). Patients completing preoxygenation in TV and VC method – tribal: 22% and 53%, non-tribal: 4% and 62%, tribal male: 22% and 20%, non-tribal male: 8% and 68%, tribal female: 0% and 60%, and nontribal female: 0 and 57%, respectively. Conclusion: No significant difference found between tribal and non-tribal groups of both sexes in each method. Completion of preoxygenation was higher in VC group, though not tested statistically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The effects of preoperative respiratory muscle training (RMT) on postoperative complications in patients surgically treated for myasthenia gravis (MG) remain unclear. The present study therefore evaluated the effects of preoperative moderate-to-intense RMT and aerobic exercise, when added to respiratory physiotherapy, on respiratory vital capacity, exercise capacity, and duration of hospital stay in patients with MG. Methods: Eighty patients with MG scheduled for extended thymectomy were randomly divided into two groups. The 40 subjects in the study group (SG) received preoperative moderate-to-intense RMT and aerobic exercise in addition to respiratory physiotherapy, whereas the 40 subjects in the control group (CG) received only chest physiotherapy. Respiratory vital capacity (as determined by VC, FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, and PEF) and exercise capacity (as determined by the 6-min walk test [6 MWT]) were measured pre- and postoperatively and before discharge. The duration of hospital stay and activity of daily living (ADL) were also determined. Results: Demographic and surgical characteristics, along with preoperative vital capacity and exercise capacity, were similar in the two groups. In the CG, VC (p = 0.001), FVC (p = 0.001), FEV1 (p = 0.002), PEF (p = 0.004), and 6MWT (p = 0.041) were significantly lower postoperatively than preoperatively, whereas the FEV1/FVC ratio did not differ significantly. Postoperative VC (p = 0.012), FVC (p = 0.030), FEV1 (p = 0.014), and PEF (p = 0.035) were significantly higher in the SG than in the CG, although 6MWT results did not differ. ADL on postoperative day 5 was significantly higher in the SG than in the CG (p = 0.001). Conclusion: RMT and aerobic exercise can have positive effects on postoperative respiratory vital capacity and daily life activity, and would enhance recovery after surgery in MG patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problem Statement and Purpose: Soccer is a sport characterized by high intensity and duration. The energy needed to play a soccer match is provided by aerobic metabolism. Therefore, it is important to determine such parameters as oxygen consumption and maximal oxygen consumption in soccer players. The aim of the study is to track the changes in the functional indicators of professional soccer players during the spring half-season and to give recommendations for changes in the training plan to increase their performance and reduce fatigue at the end of the season. Approach: The study involved 13 professional soccer players and was conducted in the period January - June. Functional examination of respiration - spirometry and determination of gas exchange parameters during exercise - spiroergometry were performed twice at the beginning and at the end of the period. Results: The spirometry data of the subjects showed values close to the predicted values. The decrease in values at the end of the spring half-season is probably due to the fatigue accumulated during this period. Although the values show a decrease in the parameters, there is no statistically significant difference in the two measurements of the Tifno index, but there is a statistically significant difference in the decrease in VC (Wilcoxon signed rank test, p value = 0.04) and FEO1 (Wilcoxon signed rank test, p value = 0.0002). The fact that even the indicators at the beginning of the study are to some extent underestimated, shows the accumulation of fatigue in the players and the need to rethink the overall training plan with corresponding individual approaches to each soccer player in order to optimize the training-recovery ratio. There was a slight increase (statistically insignificant) in mean VO2max and VO2max/kg during the spring half-season, indicating that training resulted in an increase in aerobic capacity. This is an indication that conditioning training is producing the desired result and can be carried out without any major changes. Conclusions: The benefit of periodic medical and functional examinations of football players is mainly in two directions. First, it provides information about the current state of health of the athlete under study and his fitness to participate in training and sports competitions. And, secondly, it enables the coach, analyzing the results, to assess the specific functional capabilities of the football players, to make changes in the training schedule and specific exercises, to pay attention to recovery and to apply an individual approach to each specific case in order to improve specific indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis Objectives: This study's objective is to provide a critical review of the current literature regarding the changes in pulmonary function (PF) in Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients who have undergone posterior spinal fusion and instrumentation (PSF), with and without thoracoplasty (TP). Methods: A comprehensive search was performed using the following databases: EMBASE, PubMed, EBSCOhost (CINAHL and Medline) and OpenGrey. Our focus was on studies that compared pre-and postoperative percent-predicted values of forced vital capacity (%FVC) or forced expiratory volume in 1 second (%FEV1) in AIS patients who had undergone PSF, with and without TP, with a minimum 2-year follow-up. The risk of bias for included studies was assessed using the ROBINS-I ("Risk Of Bias In Non-randomised Studies - of Interventions") tool. Mean change scores were depicted using forest plots. Results: Fifteen studies met our inclusion criteria. The results of our analysis suggest that PSF with TP caused a significant deterioration of %FVC in individuals with moderate AIS, with no significant effect on %FEV1. It also showed a minor improvement of FEV1% in individuals with moderate AIS after PSF only, but no significant change in %FVC. Conclusions: PSF with TP caused a significant deterioration of % FVC while PSF alone caused a minor improvement of FEV1% in individuals with moderate AIS with a minimum 2-year follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The forced vital capacity (FVC) of healthy individuals depends on their age, sex, ethnicity and height. Systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) is characterised by loss of FVC. We compared FVC values in the subjects with SSc-ILD in the SENSCIS trial of nintedanib versus placebo with values from hypothetical matched healthy references. Methods The SENSCIS trial enrolled subjects with SSc with first non-Raynaud symptom in the prior ≤ 7 years, extent of fibrotic ILD on HRCT ≥ 10%, and FVC ≥ 40% predicted. FVC at baseline and decline in FVC over 52 weeks were compared with FVC values in hypothetical healthy reference subjects matched 1:1 to the subjects in the trial for age, sex, ethnicity and height, determined using equations published by the European Respiratory Society Global Lung Function Initiative. Results At baseline, mean (SD) FVC was 2460 (737) mL in the nintedanib group (n = 287) compared with 3403 (787) mL in the hypothetical matched healthy references. Mean (SD) FVC was 2544 (817) mL in the placebo group (n = 286) compared with 3516 (887) mL in the hypothetical matched healthy references. Mean (SE) changes in FVC at week 52, i.e., age-related loss of lung function, in the hypothetical healthy references matched to the nintedanib and placebo groups, respectively, were − 26.3 (0.5) mL and − 25.8 (0.5) mL. The difference in the change in FVC at week 52 between the nintedanib group and the hypothetical healthy references was 26.6 mL (95% CI: 1.2, 52.0; p = 0.04). The difference in the change in FVC at week 52 between the placebo group and the hypothetical healthy references was 77.5 mL (95% CI: 51.4, 103.7; p

The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between postural stability, external breathing, and sex, as this area of research is not yet well explored. The study included 19 healthy participants, both male and female, and compared their breathing parameters in three positions: sitting, standing, and supine. The objective was to collect data to develop a non-contact method for recording external respiration. The analysis included measurements of vital capacity and forced vital capacity pulmonary tests, as well as parameters of natural breathing. We confirmed that the lung volume component was higher in males than in females in the sitting position. Additionally, postural influence on breathing was observed only in male participants, with no significant impact on females. Men also exhibited an increased respiratory rate in both standing and supine positions, as well as increased minute ventilation when standing as compared to sitting. Furthermore, men demonstrated higher maximum inspiratory and expiratory vital capacities in all positions as compared to women. These results have important implications not only for the development of non-contact methods for recording respiration but also in the studies of vertical stance, in clinical investigations.

Depression is a severe and common mental disorder. The association between depressive symptoms and lung function remains unclear. To determine whether depressive symptoms are associated with lung function in U.S. adults without pulmonary diseases. A cross-sectional study of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data from 2007 to 2012 were used to estimate the relationship between depressive symptoms and lung function. Depressive symptoms were determined by a participant's score on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Forced Expiratory Volume 1st Second (FEV1) Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) were determined by the spirometry. Weighted multivariate linear regression was used to analyze this relationship and subgroup analyses were performed. Of 8027 participants, 576 (7.18 %) participants with depression. Depression group had significant lower FEV1 and FVC than non-depression group. After adjustment for all covariates, there was a significant negative association between depressive symptoms and FVC (β −4.84, 95 % CI −9.10 to −0.57), especially in non-Hispanic White people (β −9.03, 95 % CI −14.38 to −3.69). There was no independent association between depressive symptoms and FEV1 in all participants, whereas the association was significant in non-Hispanic White people (β −4.91, 95 % CI −9.50 to −0.32). High depressive symptoms were independently associated with decline of FVC among U.S. adults without pulmonary diseases, especially in non-Hispanic White people. In addition, although it was not independently associated with FEV1 in all participants, depressive symptom score was also negatively associated with FEV1 in non-Hispanic White people. • High depressive symptoms were independently associated with decline of FVC among U.S. adults without pulmonary diseases. • High depressive symptoms were more obvious associated with decline of FVC in non-Hispanic White people. • High depressive symptoms were also independently associated with decline of FEV1 in non-Hispanic White people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]