Efficacy of Respiratory Muscle Training in the Immediate Postoperative Period of Cardiac Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

ABSTRACT Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of respiratory muscle training during the immediate postoperative period of cardiac surgery on respiratory muscle strength, pulmonary function, functional capacity, and length of hospital stay. Methods: This is a systematic review and meta-analysis. A comprehensive search on PubMed®, Excerpta Medica Database (or Embase), Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (or CINAHL), Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (or LILACS), Scientific Electronic Library Online (or SciELO), Physiotherapy Evidence Database (or PEDro), and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases was performed. A combination of free-text words and indexed terms referring to cardiac surgery, coronary artery bypass grafting, respiratory muscle training, and clinical trials was used. A total of 792 studies were identified; after careful selection, six studies were evaluated. Results: The studies found significant improvement after inspiratory muscle training (IMT) (n = 165, 95% confidence interval [CI] 9.68, 21.99) and expiratory muscle training (EMT) (n = 135, 95% CI 8.59, 27.07) of maximal inspiratory pressure and maximal expiratory pressure, respectively. Also, IMT increased significantly (95% CI 19.59, 349.82, n = 85) the tidal volume. However, no differences were found in the peak expiratory flow, functional capacity, and length of hospital stay after EMT and IMT. Conclusion: IMT and EMT demonstrated efficacy in improving respiratory muscle strength during the immediate postoperative period of cardiac surgery. There was no evidence indicating the efficacy of IMT for pulmonary function and length of hospital stay and the efficacy of EMT for functional capacity.

Serum interleukin-33 combined with FEF75% z-score and FeNO improves the diagnostic accuracy of asthma in children

Abstract Objective To investigate the diagnostic efficacy of serum IL-33 single indicator and combined indicators for asthma in children. Methods 132 children were initially diagnosed with asthma during acute exacerbation and 100 healthy children were included. Serum IL-33 concentration differences were compared between asthmatic and normal children. Correlations between IL-33 with pulmonary function parameters, FeNO, peripheral blood EOS counts and serum total IgE were analyzed in asthmatic children. ROC curves were used to assess IL-33 diagnostic efficacy and its combined indicators. To prevent overfitting of the predictive model, the hold-out cross-validation method was used. Results (1) Serum IL-33 concentrations were significantly higher in children with asthma than in normal children (p < 0.001). (2) IL-33 concentration was negatively correlated with FVC z-score, FEV1 z-score and FEF75% z-score in asthmatic children (p < 0.05). (3) The area under the ROC curve of IL-33 was 0.821, which was higher than those of FeNO, FVC z-score, and FEV1 z-score. (4) Cross-validation of the combined indicators showed that IL-33 significantly improved asthma diagnostic efficacy. The combination of IL-33, FEF75% z-score, and FeNO showed the highest diagnostic efficacy, with the AUC, sensitivity, and specificity of the combined indicator being 0.954, 90.1%, and 89. 0%, respectively, and good extrapolation of the predictive model. Conclusion Serum IL-33 is higher in children with asthma and increases with the severity of pulmonary ventilation obstruction. A single indicator of serum IL-33 demonstrates moderate diagnostic accuracy, and its combination with FEF75% z-score and FeNO significantly improves the diagnostic accuracy in childhood asthma.

Impact of COVID-19 social distancing recommendations on pulmonary function, nutritional status, and morbidity in patients with cystic fibrosis / Impacto das recomendações de distanciamento social por COVID-19 sobre a função pulmonar, estado nutricional e morbidade em pacientes com fibrose cística

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the impact of COVID-19 social distancing recommendations on nutritional status, pulmonary function, and morbidity in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Methods: A retrospective cohort study including patients older than six years with a diagnosis of CF was performed. Demographic and clinical data, anthropometric measurements, pulmonary function, days of antibiotic use, and length of hospital stay were recorded. Variables were recorded at three time points relative to the baseline for implementation of social distancing measures: T-1 (14 months before implementation), T0 (baseline), and T1 (14 months after implementation). Delta (Δ) was calculated for each period: Δ1 (pre-pandemic T0-T-1) and Δ2 (pandemic T1-T0). Results: The study included 25 patients, with a mean age of 11.7±4.3 years. The mean forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) was 85.6±23.6%, and body mass index (BMI) was 17.5±3.0 kg/m2. When comparing the two periods (Δ1 and Δ2), there was a significant increase in the FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio (p=0.013) and in the forced expiratory flow between 25 and 75% of vital capacity (FEF25-75%) (p=0.037) in the pandemic period. There was also a significant reduction (p=0.005) in the use of antibiotics in the pandemic period compared with the pre-pandemic period. The Δ1 and Δ2 values did not differ significantly for BMI, FEV1, or length of hospital stay. Conclusions: COVID-19 social distancing recommendations had a positive impact (decrease) on morbidity (use of antibiotics) and small airway obstruction (FEF25-75%) in patients with CF.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto das recomendações de medidas de distanciamento social por COVID-19 sobre estado nutricional, função pulmonar e morbidade em pacientes com fibrose cística (FC). Métodos: Estudo de coorte, retrospectivo, que incluiu pacientes com diagnóstico de FC e idade superior a seis anos. Foram registrados os dados demográficos, antropométricos, clínicos, de função pulmonar e o total de dias de uso de antibiótico e de hospitalizações. As variáveis foram registradas em três momentos relativos ao início das recomendações de distanciamento social: T-1 (14 meses antes), T0 (início das recomendações) e T1 (14 meses depois). Foram calculados deltas (Δ) para cada um dos períodos: Δ1 (pré-pandemia T0-T-1) e Δ2 (pandemia T1-T0). Resultados: Vinte e cinco pacientes, com média de idade de 11,7±4,3 anos, sendo 76% homozigotos para Δf508 e 28% colonizados por Pseudomonas aeruginosa, foram incluídos. A média do volume expiratório forçado no primeiro segundo (VEF1) foi de 85,6±23,6 (% do previsto) e o índice de massa corporal (IMC) foi de 17,5±3,0 kg/m2. Ao compararmos os períodos (Δ1 e Δ2), houve aumento significativo do VEF1/CVF (p=0,013) e do FEF25-75% (p=0,037) no período das recomendações de distanciamento. Também se observou redução significativa (p=0,005) do uso de antibióticos no período da pandemia em comparação ao período anterior a ela. Não houve diferenças significativas nos deltas para o IMC, VEF1 e dias de hospitalização. Conclusões: As recomendações de distanciamento social por COVID-19 tiveram impacto positivo (redução) sobre a morbidade (uso de antibióticos) e a obstrução de vias aéreas de menor calibre (FEF25-75%) em pacientes com FC.

Risk factors and determinants of pulmonary function impairments in chronic respiratory diseases in Ethiopia: A hospital-based cross-sectional study

Introduction: Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) are diseases of the lung airways and parenchyma. Globally, they are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to characterize the common CRDs, along with their lung function and possible determinants in symptomatic patients attending Bishoftu General Hospital, Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sessional study was conducted at the outpatient of Bishoftu Hospital, Ethiopia from June 2019 to March 2020. Consecutive adult patients aged 18 and above with CRDs (≥8 weeks) were recruited. Questionnaires were used to collect data on demographics, symptoms, diagnoses, and putative risk factors. Lung function was measured by spirometry. Result: A total of 170 participants were recruited, the majority 102(60.0%) were female. The mean age was 49 years (SD=16). The most common symptoms were wheezing in the last twelve months 156 (91.8%), cough 138 (81.2%), and severe exertional breathlessness 137 (80.6%). Thirty-nine (22.9%) were either active or passive smokers. Half of the patients (50.3%) were exposed daily to vapors, dust, gases, or fumes and 58 (34.3%) were exposed to biomass smoke. In total, 138 (81.2%) had a positive allergen skin prick test. Chronic bronchitis (49.1%) and asthma (36.1%) were the most common clinical diagnoses. Classification of lung function revealed 23 (15%) normal, 29 (19%) obstructive, 36(23.5%) restrictive and 61(39.9%) mixed patterns. Airflow obstruction was independently associated with increasing age (p<0.05), exertional breathlessness (p<0.001), previous history of asthma (p<0.05), BMI (p<0.05), and doctor-diagnosed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (p<0.001) and asthma (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study shows a high burden of abnormal lung function in patients attending clinics because of CRDs symptoms. These findings support the critical need for spirometry services to determine lung abnormality in patients with chronic respiratory symptoms.

Impacto de un Programa de Recuperación Funcional en Músculos Ventilatorios y Apendiculares en Pacientes Post-ventilación Mecánica por COVID-19 / Impact of a Functional Recovery Program on Ventilatory and Appendicular Muscles in Patients Post-mechanical Ventilation for COVID-19

Los pacientes con COVID-19 subsidiarios de ventilación mecánica (VM), evolucionan con consecuencias funcionales en la musculatura ventilatoria y apendicular que no necesariamente se abordan de manera diferenciada. El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar el impacto de un programa de recuperación funcional en estos pacientes y determinar si las intervenciones afectan de manera diferenciada a las funciones ventilatorias y musculatura apendicular, utilizando pruebas de bajo costo. Se evaluaron 47 pacientes con COVID-19 que estuvieron en VM. Posterior a una espirometría basal se les realizó; presión inspiratoria máxima (PIMáx), fuerza de prensión palmar (FPP), prueba de pararse y sentarse (PPS) y Prueba de caminata en 6 minutos (PC6m), antes y después del plan de intervención. Este programa incluyó ejercicios aeróbicos y de fuerza supervisados por dos sesiones semanales de 60 minutos durante 3 meses. Después del programa, se observaron mejoras significativas en la capacidad vital forzada (CVF), el volumen espiratorio en el primer segundo (VEF1) y la PIMáx. Se encontraron relaciones significativas entre estas mediciones y la distancia recorrida de la PC6m, la FPP y la PPS. En conclusión, el programa de recuperación funcional en pacientes con COVID-19 que requirieron VM, beneficia tanto la función ventilatoria como la fuerza muscular apendicular. Las pruebas de fuerza muscular apendicular pueden ser útiles para evaluar la recuperación ya que pueden entregar información diferenciada de sus rendimientos. Por último, se necesita más investigación para comprender mejor la respuesta de estos pacientes a la rehabilitación.

SUMMARY: Patients with COVID-19 requiring mechanical ventilation (MV) evolve with functional consequences in the ventilatory and appendicular muscles that are not necessarily addressed in a differentiated manner. The objective of this research was to evaluate the impact of a functional recovery program in these patients and determine if the interventions differentially affect ventilatory functions and appendicular muscles, using low- cost tests. 47 patients with COVID-19 who were on MV were evaluated. After a baseline spirometry, they were performed; maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), handgrip strength (HGS), sit to stand test (STST) and 6-minute walk test (6MWT), before and after the intervention plan. This program included supervised aerobic and strength exercises for two weekly 60-minute sessions for 3 months. After the program, significant improvements were observed in forced vital capacity (FVC), expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) and MIP. Significant relationships were found between these measurements and the distance traveled of the 6MWT, the HGS and the STST. In conclusion, the functional recovery program in patients with COVID-19 who required MV benefits both ventilatory function and appendicular muscle strength. Appendicular muscle strength tests can be useful to evaluate recovery since they can provide differentiated information about your performances. Finally, more research is needed to better understand the response of these patients to rehabilitation.

Lung Function Tests in Infants and Children

Lung function testing is an essential modality of investigation in children as it provides objective evidence of lung disease/ health. With advances in technology, various tests are available that can aid in the diagnosis of lung disease, assess the progression and response to therapy and document the lung development and evolving lung diseases in infants. This narrative review discusses lung function tests in infants and children. Currently, lung function tests can be performed in every age group, from neonates to the elderly. Spirometry and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) are the most employed tests in children more than six years of age. Spirometry helps diagnose and monitoring of both obstructive and restrictive diseases. There is a need for expertise to perform and interpret spirometry correctly. The forced oscillation technique (FOT) or impulse oscillometry (IOS) is done with tidal volume breathing and is feasible even in preschool children. Their utility is mainly restricted to asthma in children at present. Lung function tests can be performed in neonates, infants and children using infant pulmonary function test (PFT) equipment, although their availability is limited. Diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) is a valuable tool in restrictive lung diseases. Lung volumes can be assessed by body plethysmography and multiple washout technique. The latter can also assess lung clearance index. It is essential to perform and interpret the lung function test results correctly and correlate them with the clinical condition for optimum treatment and outcome.

Pediatric Pulmonology Training in India: Current Status and Future Directions

Respiratory illnesses are common causes of morbidity and mortality in children. Postgraduates in Pediatrics spent significant time in learning to manage respiratory disorders. Improved survival of preterm neonates, improved diagnosis and survival of chronic respiratory problems, and advances in diagnosis and therapeutics have increased the need for specialists trained in managing these patients. Training programs in Pediatric Pulmonology are evolving over the past few decades. In India, super-specialty training in Pediatric Pulmonology has grown over the past few years. There is a need to modify the training structure used in industrialized countries due to differences in patient population, priorities, and limited available resources and expertise. Formal training courses have been started in a limited number of institutions. There is a large gap between the need for a trained workforce and the available specialists in the limited number of institutions. The Indian Academy of Pediatrics National Respiratory Chapter (IAPNRC) has initiated a fellowship program to bridge the gap. Comprehensive training involving academic and hands-on training may go a long way to improve the care of children with acute and chronic respiratory problems. For sustainable development of the super specialty, there is a need to work towards creating Pediatric Pulmonology service departments in various institutions that may be responsible for comprehensive training and research activities to answer common research questions.

Pulmonary function tests in compressed natural gas pump workers in Surat city

Background: Various studies have known abatements in lung function and several other health problems associated with longstanding air pollution exposure. One of the most cost-effective and environmental alternative of conventional fuels (petrol and diesel) is compressed natural gas (CNG). The increasing use of CNG as a fuel (as it is safe and cheap as compare to the conventional fuels) can add one more bug to the list of work-related disease. Aims and Objectives: This study is to evaluate the respiratory functions of CNG pump workers. Materials and Methods: The present study was held on 82 male subjects. The study group included of non-smoking healthy adult males, age group of 20–40 years working in different CNG stations in Surat city for >6 months and 8 h per day. The control group included of non-smoking healthy adult males, age group of 20–30 years working or studying in the Surat Municipal Institute of Medical Education and Research (SMIMER). Results: Out of 82 male subjects, 30 subjects were control and 52 subjects were CNG station workers. The study group comprised of 52 healthy non-smokers in the age group of 20–40 years working in different CNG station in Surat city for >6 months and 8 h/day. The control group comprised of 30 healthy non-smokers males between the age group of 20–30 years working or studying in the SMIMER. Conclusion: In this study, we have not found statistically significant deterioration in pulmonary functions of CNG pump workers when compared to controls.

Correlation of glycemic control and BMI with pulmonary function test in Type-2 diabetes mellitus – A cross-sectional case–control study

Background: Type-2 diabetes mellitus is related to decreased lung function. Prolonged inadequate control of glucose levels may alter regulation of inflammatory pathways that are implicated in pulmonary function complications. Aim and Objectives: The objjectives of the study were to assess the relationship of pulmonary function test (PFT) with factors influencing glycemic status in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Materials and Methods: A total of 110 diabetic cases with uncontrolled blood sugar levels and similar number age- and gender-matched control subjects above 30 years of age were recruited. Sociodemographic details were collected and participants underwent laboratory ad radiological investigations. PFTs including Forced vital capacity (FVC), peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), forced expired volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced expiratory flow (FEF 25–75%), and FEV1/FVC ratio were assessed. Results: The comparison of PFTs with levels of HbA1c (<7 and >7) showed that the levels of FVC, PEFR, FEV1, and FEF 25–75% were higher in diabetics with HbA1c <7 and FEV1/FVC ratio was high in diabetic cases with HbA1c >7. The mean difference of PFT with HbA1c and body mass index (BMI) was statistically not significant in diabetics (P > 0.05). The person’s correlation analysis showed a negative correlation between FVC, FEV1 with HbA1c, and BMI in diabetics. Conclusion: Uncontrolled glycemic status and increased BMI were associated with functional impairment of lungs. Organized glycemic control and duly checking the PFTs may reduce the risk of onset of respiratory complications and lung function.

Post-COVID-19 pulmonary function tests in young health care workers in South Indian population – An observational study

Background: The risk of exposure to COVID-19 pandemic was substantially higher in frontline young health care workers. Due to repeated exposure while treating patients, the viral load is exponentially higher than the other population. Lungs being the earliest organ to be affected carry more risk of long-term morbidity. Thus, pulmonary function tests (PFTs) on post-COVID young health care workers provide a better view on the impact, recovery and residual effects. Aim and Objectives: The objectives of the study are as follows: (i) To assess the PFT in study group who have recovered from COVID-19 within the past 3 months; (ii) to compare their lung function with that of health care workers who have not been infected by COVID-19; and (iii) to determine obstructive, restrictive or mixed pulmonary changes if any in health care workers after 3 months of recovery. Materials and Methods: This study involving 50 young health care workers was done in the department of pulmonary medicine for a period of 4 months between January and April 2021. The study (mild COVID-19 positive) control group involved 25 participants each. PFT and diffusing capacity of lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) were measured using computerized spirometer and single breath method. Results were analyzed using Shapiro–Wilk test, Independent sample t test, and Chi-square test. Results: A statistically significant difference was observed among the subjects of case and control group with respect to the level of FEV1 (P < 0.05), FEV1/Forced vital capacity (FVC) (P < 0.01), and FEF. FVC, Peak expiratory flow (PEF), forced expiratory time, DLCO, and peak inspiratory flow (PIF) were not statistically different between the study and control group. (P > 0.05).The 3-month post recovery values were high in males when compared to females, except for PIF, PEF and FEV1%. Conclusion: PFT and DLCO values were normal in young health care workers after 3 months of COVID-19 infection except for a decrease in FEF 25–75%.

A comparative study of effects of pranayama and aerobic exercise on spirometric indices in the age group of 30–50 years

Background: Increasing awareness to lifestyle disease has led to more participation of people in taking up various forms of exercise to avail more health benefits. The ability to perform physical exercise is related to cardiovascular systems capacity to supply oxygen to muscles and pulmonary systems ability to clear carbon di oxide from blood via lungs. Spirometry is a physiological test that measures the volume and flow of air that can be inhaled and exhaled. Aim and Objectives: The purpose of this study is not only to assess the beneficial effects of pranayama and aerobic exercises but to compare the improvements in the lung functions among these two modalities of exercises. Materials and Methods: It is a non-randomized cross-sectional comparative study. Total 150 participants of both sexes aged 30–50 years were selected and divided equally into three groups: Pranayama group, aerobic exercise group, and control group who were doing pranayama and aerobic exercise and no exercise respectively from the past 3 months were included in the study. The participants were assessed by their anthropometric parameters, pulse rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), FEV1/FVC, and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). Results: Among Pranayama groups, there was significantly higher level of FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC ratio, and PEFR as compared to aerobic exercise group and control group. Conclusion: Both pranayama and aerobic exercise play an important role in improving the pulmonary functions but effects were more pronounced with pranayama.

Efectos de la menopausia temprana en la función pulmonar: revisión integrativa / Effects of early menopause on lung function: an integrative review

La menopausia provoca cambios hormonales y alteraciones sistémicas. La menopausia normal sucede entre los 45-55 años y la menopausia temprana (MT) se desarrolla antes de los 45 años. Revisar la evidencia que señala posibles asociaciones entre la MT y la función pulmonar, analizando específicamente aquellos componentes que se encuentran alterados. Se eligieron estudios transversales y revisiones sistemáticas, en inglés, portugués y español. La búsqueda se realizó de marzo a noviembre de2022, en PubMed y Scopus, aemás de búsquedas manuales. La calidad metodológica fue analizada utilizando la escala Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology para los estudios observacionales, y el Ameasurement Tool to Assess Systematic Review para las revisiones. Se encontraron 698 estudios, 12 seleccionados para calificación metodológica, cinco excluidos. Al final del análisis metodológico, se obtuvieron seis estudios transversales y una revisión sistemática, llevados a cabo en Reino Unido, Europa y Asia. Hay una tendencia para asociación de la MT a un patrón ventilatorio restrictivo. Sin embargo la evidencia sigue siendo escasa y se sugiere la realización de nuevos estudios.

Menopause causes hormonal changes and systemic alterations. Normal menopause is when this event occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, and early menopause (EM) when it develops earlier than 45 years. To review the evidence that indicates possible associations between EM and lung function, specifically analyzing those components that are altered. Cross-sectional and systematic reviews studies, published from 2000-2022, in English, Portuguese and Spanish were selected from March to November 2022, in PubMed and Scopus and through manual searches. Methodological quality was assessed using the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology scale for observational studies, and the Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Review for reviews. 698 studies were found, 12 were selected for methodological quality review and 5 were excluded. At the end of methodological analysis, 6 cross-sectional studies and 1 systematic review were obtained, carried out in United Kingdom, Europe and Asia. There is a tendency for EM to be associated with restrictive ventilatory pattern. However, the evidence is scarce and further studies are suggested.

Relationship between Body Surface Area and Pulmonary Functions in Patients of Silicosis

Background and objective: Silicosis is one of the oldest occupational lung diseases. However, there are very few studies identifying the anthropometric variables associated with silicosis. The present study aimed at studying the association between body surface area (BSA), pulmonary function indices, and 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) in patients with silicosis. Materials and methods: The study was conducted on 102 male patients of silicosis. Height and weight were measured to calculate BSA. Spirometry and 6 minute-walk tests were performed. Data were analyzed using EPI info V 7 software. Student's t-test of significance (ANOVA) was applied to test the difference between means. Results: There are no significant changes found in the 6-minute walk distance with years of exposure and BSA. Statistically significant lower values of pulmonary function indices were observed in patients with BSA <1.6 sq m. Statistically significant higher values of forced expiratory volume in the first second and forced vital capacity were observed in patients with BSA >1.9 sq m in all categories of exposure. Conclusion: In conclusion, patients of silicosis with >1.9 sq m BSA had higher values of pulmonary function indices. Large body size may be of value in protection from developing occupational lung disease.

Study of lung function tests in tea garden factory workers in relation to duration of exposure to tea dust

Background: Occupational hazard is a common health problem in the world today. The tea industry is also no exception. Tea dust inhalation leads to development of many respiratory symptoms: Acute as well as chronic. Workers in the tea factory often are not aware of the ill effects of inhalation of tea dust. There is therefore a need to make them aware of their working environment and take necessary precautions to keep themselves healthy to earn their livelihood. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the pulmonary function tests (PFT) in tea garden factory workers and assess the outcome of exposure duration to tea dust in them. Materials and Methods: The study had been carried out on 210 male tea garden factory workers (cases) and 70 male field workers (control) employed in various tea gardens of Dibrugarh, in Assam. Computerized spirometer was used to evaluate PFTs. The cases were categorized into three categories (70 numbers in every category) according to their exposure duration, namely – Category 1: Exposure duration <1 year; Category 2: Exposure duration of 1–2 years; and Category 3: Exposure duration of >2 years up to 5 years. Statistical analysis was done using ANOVA. Results: On comparing with control group values, statistically significant decline of forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume (FEV)1 values were seen in Category 1 while highly significant decline were seen for Categories 2 and 3. Decline of FEV1% in Category 3 was highly significant. Decline of peaked expiratory flow rate values in Category 2 and Category 3 was significant. Conclusion: Increase in exposure duration to tea dust causes a significant decline in lung functions.

Morphological characteristics and pulmonary function of naval saboteurs and ground special forces of the armed forces of Montenegro / Características morfológicas y función pulmonar de saboteadores navales y fuerzas especiales terrestres de las fuerzas armadas de Montenegro

SUMMARY: The results of numerous medical and kinesiological studies indicate the existence of differences in pulmonary function in relation to age, body height, and the relationship between certain parameters of body composition. The aim of this study was to determine the state of morphological characteristics and pulmonary function of naval saboteurs and ground Special Forces of the Armed Forces of Montenegro. The sample of participants included 30 naval saboteurs aged 30.3±6 years and 30 members of the ground special forces aged 25.6±5 years. The sample of measuring instruments included 4 indicators each for the evaluation of longitudinal dimensionality, transversal dimensionality, mass and body volume, subcutaneous fat, body composition, and pulmonary function. The central and dispersion parameters of the variables were calculated. The specificities of body composition of the naval saboteurs and members of the ground Special Forces of the AF of Montenegro were determined, while the parameters of lung volume and capacity and the parameters of airway flow indicated an excellent state of their respiratory function. Furthermore, it was determined that the studied members of the armed forces had no individual health risks in the sense of the onset of obesity or obstructive ventilatory defects. The results obtained indicate the need for further studies which would predominantly focus on the impact of individual morphological measurements and parameters of body composition on pulmonary function. This would provide important data both for the armed forces in the sense of improving the training system and the realization of specific tasks, as well as for kinesiology as a science from the aspect of determining certain regularities in the functioning of the human body in specific living and working conditions in the armed forces.

Los resultados de numerosos estudios médicos y kinesiológicos indican la existencia de diferencias en la función pulmonar en relación con la edad, la altura corporal y la relación entre determinados parámetros de la composición corporal. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar el estado de las características morfológicas y la función pulmonar de los saboteadores navales y de las Fuerzas Especiales terrestres de las Fuerzas Armadas de Montenegro. La muestra de participantes incluyó a 30 saboteadores navales de 30,3±6 años de edad y 30 miembros de las fuerzas especiales terrestres de 25,6±5 años. La muestra de instrumentos de medición incluyó 4 indicadores cada uno para la evaluación de dimensionalidad longitudinal, dimensionalidad transversal, masa y volumen corporal, grasa subcutánea, composición corporal y función pulmonar. Se calcularon los parámetros centrales y de dispersión de las variables. Se determinaron las especificidades de la composición corporal de los saboteadores navales y miembros de las Fuerzas Especiales terrestres de la FA de Montenegro, mientras que los parámetros de volumen y capacidad pulmonar y los parámetros de flujo de las vías respiratorias indicaron un excelente estado de su función respiratoria. Además, se determinó que los miembros de las fuerzas armadas estudiados no tenían riesgos individuales de salud en el sentido de la obesidad o defectos ventilatorios obstructivos. Los resultados obtenidos indican la necesidad de más estudios que se centren predominantemente en el impacto de las medidas morfológicas individuales y los parámetros de composición corporal en la función pulmonar. Esto proporcionaría datos importantes tanto para las fuerzas armadas en el sentido de mejorar el sistema de entrenamiento y la realización de tareas específicas, como para la kinesiología como ciencia desde el aspecto de determinar ciertas regularidades en el funcionamiento del cuerpo humano en situaciones específicas de vida. y condiciones de trabajo en las fuerzas armadas.

Comparison of impulse oscillometry and pulmonary function test in assessment of bronchial asthma control in children / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

Objective:To compare and analyze the effects of impulse oscillometry (IOS) and pulmonary function test (PFT) in the assessment of asthma control in children.Methods:A cross-sectional study of 323 children with bronchial asthma who visited the outpatient pediatric clinic of Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University from March to December 2020 was conducted.The patients were divided into the control group (123 cases) and the uncontrolled group (200 cases) according to the Childhood Asthma Control Test (C-ACT) score.In both groups, PFT and IOS were performed.The PFT test included the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV 1), force expiratory volume in one second/forced vital capacity (FEV 1/FVC), peak expiratory flow (PEF), the instantaneous forced expiratory flow at 50% of forced vital capacity (FEF 50), the instantaneous forced expiratory flow at 75% of forced vital capacity (FEF 75), and maximum mid expiratory flow (MMEF). In the IOS test, the total respiratory impedance at 5 Hz (Z5), respiratory resistance at 5 Hz (R5), respiratory resistance at 20 Hz (R20), reactance at 5 Hz (X5), respiratory resistance at 5 Hz-respiratory resistance at 20 Hz (R5-R20), reactance area (AX), and resonance frequency (Fres) were measured.The data obtained were analyzed statistically using SPSS 25.0 software. ANOVA or Mann- Whitney U rank-sum test was used to compare data between groups.Receiver′s operating characteristic (ROC) curves were drawn to determine the predictive value of PFT and IOS parameters for uncontrolled asthma. Results:(1) According to the comparison results of PFT indexes between the two groups of children with asthma, the levels of FEV 1, FEV 1/FVC, PEF, FEF 50, FEF 75, MMEF in the control group were all higher than those in the uncontrolled group [(104.41±12.38)% vs.(98.89±16.61)%, 100.50 (94.40, 103.50)% vs.96.00 (89.83, 101.88)%, (100.29±15.31)% vs.(93.19±18.43)%, 85.60(70.60, 96.60)% vs.72.35 (57.08, 91.10)%, 67.20 (53.60, 81.70)% vs.56.80 (41.10, 74.73)%, 80.70 (66.80, 95.10)% vs.69.50 (54.03, 90.05)%] (all P<0.01). (2) According to the comparison results of IOS indices between the two groups, the levels of Z5, R5, R20, R5-R20, X5, AX and Fres in the control group were lower than those in the uncontrolled group {68.58 (63.29, 77.43)% vs.81.27(70.93, 91.96)%, 68.91(62.94, 77.60)% vs.80.61 (70.02, 89.29)%, 75.78 (67.50, 87.55)% vs.82.97 (71.50, 95.50)%, 0.51 (0.43, 0.59) [kPa/(L·S)] vs.0.62 (0.53, 0.74) [kPa/(L·S)], 69.31 (59.93, 79.14)% vs.86.48 (70.00, 102.48)%, 1.11 (0.76, 1.60) kPa/L vs.2.14 (1.42, 2.85) kPa/L, 18.21 (16.06, 19.56) Hz vs.20.56 (18.92, 22.81) Hz} (all P<0.01). (3) In the control group, 31 children (25.20%) had pulmonary dysfunction.(4) In the uncontrolled group, 95 children (47.50%) had pulmonary ventilation dysfunction.Only 20 children (10.00%) had a R5 larger than 120% of the predicted value and/or a R20 larger than 120% of the predicted value.(5) According to the ROC analysis results of the IOS indices for predicting asthma exacerbations, all of the areas under the ROC (AUC) of Z5, R5, R5-R20, X5, AX and Fres were greater than 0.7.AX had the highest value in predicting asthma exacerbations (AUC=0.785, 95% CI: 0.735-0.835), with sensitivity of 78.50% and specificity of 64.20%.All of the AUCs of PFT indices were smaller than 0.7.FEF 50 and MMEF had the largest AUC. Conclusions:PFT and IOS have good sensitivity in evaluating the level of asthma control in children, and IOS has good value in predicting asthma exacerbations.AX has the highest predictive value for asthma exacerbations.Asthma control levels of children should be evaluated using not only subjective (such as C-ACT score) but also objective (e.g.PFT, IOS) indices.

Clinical evaluation of Jiawei Zhixiao Decoction on acute attack of bronchial asthma / 国际中医中药杂志

Objective:To evaluate the clinical efficacy of Jiawei Zhixiao Decoction and western medicine comprehensive therapy in acute attack of bronchial asthma of heat asthma syndrome.Methods:Randomized controlled trial. A total of 80 patients with acute exacerbation of bronchial asthma and TCM pattern heat asthma, who treated in the respiratory department of our hospital from January 2021 to December 2021, were selected. Accordlty to random number table method the patients were divided into the treatment group and control group, with 40 in each group. The patients in the control group were given comprehensive treatment of Western Medicine (bronchodilator and glucocorticoid, etc.). On the basis of comprehensive treatment of Western medicine, the treatment group was combined with Jiawei Zhixiao Decoction. All patients received a 14-day treatment. Before and after treatment, the TCM symptom scores were recorded, FEV1 and forced expiratory volume in one second to forced vital capacity ratio (FEV1/FVC) were measured by pulmonary function meter, and peak expiratory flow (PEF) was measured by peak expiratory flow meter. Serum TNF-α and IL-8 levels were detected by ELISA, and procalcitonin (PCT) was detected by electrochemiluminescence. The disease grade, clinical efficacy and adverse reactions were also recorded.Results:The total effective rate was 95.0% (38/40) in the treatment group and 80.0% (32/40) in the control group, the difference between the two groups was statistically significant ( χ2=4.11, P=0.043). After treatment, the TCM symptom score of the treatment group was significantly lower than that of the control group ( t=7.91, P<0.01). FEV1 [(2.83±0.37) L vs. (2.38±0.32) L, t=6.77], FEV1/FVC [(85.37±9.36) % vs. (75.50±10.24) %, t=4.50], PEF [(4.84±0.82) L vs. (3.92±0.43) L, t=6.28] was significantly higher than that of control group ( P<0.01). Serum IL-8 [(80.59±10.28) ng/L vs. (87.15±8.25) ng/L, t=3.15], TNF-α [(43.18±4.08) ng/L vs. (51.78±7.58) ng/L, t=6.32], PCT [(0.84±0.35) μg/L vs. (0.41±0.12) μg/L, t=7.35] were significantly lower than those in control group ( P<0.01). The improvement of asthma grade was significantly better than that of control group ( Z=17.86, P<0.05). During the observation period, there were no serious adverse reactions in both groups, and the safety was high. Conclusion:Application of Jiawei Zhixiao Decoction and western medicine comprehensive therapy in acute attack of bronchial asthma of heat asthma syndrome can effectively improve the TCM symptoms and lung function, attenuate the inflammation response, and alleviate the severity of asthma.

Effects of Qingfei Shenshi Decoction on the expressions of MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in lung tissue of bronchial asthma mice / 国际中医中药杂志

Objective:To investigate the effects of Qingfei Shenshi Decoction on the expressions of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase timps-1 (TIMP-1) in lung tissue of asthma mice.Methods:Totally 50 male BALB/C mice were divided into 5 groups: normal group, model group, dexamethasone group, Qingfei Shenshi Decoction low- and high-dosage groups (10 mice /group) according to random number table method. Asthma model mice were prepared by ovalbumin (OVA) challenge method. After successful modeling, the dexamethasone group was given dexamethasone for gavage at the rate of 1.56 mg/kg, while Qingfei Shenshi Decoction groups were given high and low doses of Qingfei Shenshi Decoction for gavage at the rate of 14.235 g/kg and 28.470 g/kg, respectively. Normal group and model group were given 0.9% sodium chloride solution by gavage. At the end of gavage administration for 4 weeks, the airway reactivity (Penh value) in each group was detected; HE staining was used to observe the pathological changes of lung tissue; the contents of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor -α (TNF-α) in alveolar lavage fluid were determined by enzyme Linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA); the expressions of MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in lung tissue were detected by Western-blot.Results:Compared with model group, the damage of airway wall and alveolar wall of lung tissue in Qingfei Shenshi Decoction groups was significantly reduced. Compared with model group, the Penh value, IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α levels in Qingfei Shenshi Decoction low- and high-dosage groups decreased ( P<0.05), and the expressions of MMP-9, MMP-2 and TIMP-1 in lung tissue decreased ( P<0.05), with a certain dose dependence. Conclusion:Qingfei Shenshi Decoction can effectively alleviate airway inflammation, reduce airway hyperresponsiveness, improve lung function and inhibit airway remodeling in asthmatic mice. Its mechanism may be related to down-regulating the expressions of MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIMP-1.

Effect of group mindfulness-based stress reduction therapy in managing comorbid depression in patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease / 四川精神卫生

BackgroundChronic obstructive pulmonary disease （COPD） is a common chronic respiratory disease， and patients with COPD often experience substantially emotional difficulties， such as anxiety and depression， all of which may cause serious detriment to the prognosis of patients. As a non-pharmacological intervention in clinical practice， group mindfulness-based stress reduction therapy （MBSR） is beginning to emerge， while has rarely been studied in COPD patients with concurrent emotional difficulties. ObjectiveTo evaluate the effects of group MBSR on depression， state of mindfulness and pulmonary function in stable COPD patients， so as to provide references for the application of group MBSR in patients with COPD. MethodsA total of 97 patients with stable COPD who were followed up in the Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Mianyang Third People's Hospital from January to October 2019 were selected as the study objects， and they were assigned into study group （n=50） and control group （n=47） by random number table method. All individuals received routine medication therapy and an 8-week health education， based on this， participants in study group partook an 8-week intervention comprising group MBSR. At the baseline， 4 weeks and 8 weeks of intervention， participants were assessed with Self-rating Depression Scale （SDS）， Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire （FFMQ） and COPD Assessment Test （CAT）， as well as the pulmonary function testing. ResultsThere were 41 patients in study group and 42 cases in control group completed the study. The group * time interaction was interpreted as significant between two groups for SDS， FFMQ and CAT scores （F=54.858， 86.161， 69.862， P<0.01）. Baseline SDS， FFMQ and CAT scores of the two groups yielded no statistical difference between two groups （F=0.240， 0.052， 0.019， P>0.05）， while study group scored lower on SDS and CAT （F=12.900， 38.511， 7.797， 28.824， P<0.01） and higher on FFMQ （F=27.324， 82.412， P<0.01） than those of the control group after 4 and 8 weeks of intervention. With the prolongation of intervention time in study group， participants demonstrated an overall reduction in SDS and CAT scores （F=109.753， 124.144， P<0.01）， and an increase in FFMQ scores （F=228.194， P<0.01）. There were no between-group differences in forced expiratory volume in one second as percentage of predicted volume （FEV1%pred） after 4 and 8 weeks of intervention （F=0.104， P=0.748） ， and the within-group changes in FEV1%pred value over the intervention period in study group was not statistical （F=0.561， P=0.458）. ConclusionGroup MBSR may help relieve depressive symptoms， enhance mindfulness level， and alleviate clinical symptoms in stable COPD patients， but has no effect on pulmonary function. ［Funded by Mianyang Health and Health Commission Scientific Research Project （number， 201916）］

Clinical characteristics and follow-up analysis of 12 patients of acute phosphine poisoning / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Objective: To investigate the clinical characteristics of patients with acute phosphine poisoning, and to follow up and evaluate the prognosis of patients. Methods: In May 2022, 12 patients with phosphine poisoning by respiratory inhalation in Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital of Capital Medical University were analyzed. The patients were treated with symptomatic support therapy. Three months later, patients were re-evaluated the symptoms of poisoning, pulmonary function and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain to understand the prognosis of the phosphine poisoning. Results: The main symptoms of 12 patients were respiratory and central nervous system symptoms with hypoxia. The symptoms of poisoning improved after treatment. Follow-up found that the patients had different degrees of residual symptoms. Pulmonary function showed increased airway resistance. Airway challenge test was positive in some patients. MRI of the head of some patients showed small ischemic focus in bilateral frontal lobes. Conclusion: Acute phosphine poisoning may cause persistent damage to the respiratory system and central system, and residual symptoms after 3 months.