ABSTRACT
The study on the functions of the diaphragm has been carried on for 5 years.It consisted of the studies on the relationship of the tension and endurance of inspiratory muscles with pulmonary functions,the changes of diaphragmatic electromyogram in maximal ventilation volume test in normal subjects and patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD),the functional changes of the diaphragm in dogs with RDS and the therapeutic effects of aminophylline.the changes of diaphragmatic electromyogram in dogs with hypoxemia and hy-percapnia,determination of transdiaphragmatic pressure,the relationship of the stimulation frequency on the phrenic nerve with diaphragmtic fatigue,etc.It was found that there existed di-aphragmtic fatigue in dogs with RDS,in dogs with hypoxemia and hypercapnia,and in patients with COPD,and aminophylline,digoxin,salbutomal ?-receptor excitory agents can minimize or prevent diaphragmatic fatigue.