Breathing Pattern Research Articles

Comprehensive Inpatient Rehabilitation Protocol for Acquired Diaphragmatic Hernia Repair: A Case Report

AbstractThis case report presents a comprehensive rehabilitation approach for a 32-year-old female patient who underwent diaphragmatic hernia repair. The rehabilitation protocol aimed to improve postoperative recovery, promote independence, and enhance the patient's quality of life. The study outlines a 2-week treatment plan with specific goals and interventions for each phase. Our findings reveal promising outcomes, demonstrating the positive impact of rehabilitation on postoperative recovery. The rehabilitation interventions not only contributed to enhanced diaphragmatic muscle mobility, vital parameters, chest expansion, pulmonary function, and respiratory muscle strength but also lead to improved breathing patterns. The outcomes of this study emphasize the crucial role of customized rehabilitation programs in maximizing respiratory function, fostering mobility, mitigating complications, and facilitating functional recovery. Through a comprehensive case report, we showcase the efficacy of integrating tailored rehabilitation strategies into the postoperative care paradigm in promoting overall recovery and elevating the well-being of individuals undergoing diaphragmatic hernia repair.

Effects of the Change in Respiratory Kinematics on the Singing Voice: Re-Visiting the Benefits of Diaphragmatic-Abdominal Breathing in Professional Singers with Problems in Pitch.

Objectives: To assess the effect of voice therapy on pitch in professional singers with faulty respiratory kinematics. Methodology: In this prospective interventional study, professional singers with easy voice fatigability and inability to reach higher pitches, following appropriate selection criteria, were subjected to a 1-month structured voice therapy that transformed their predominant breathing pattern from thoracic to diaphragmatic-abdominal. Acoustic parameters (pitch range and its extreme values before/after therapy, and difference in pitch range) were analyzed using Praat software and compared using standard statistical methods (paired t-test). The singers' age and career duration were also correlated with the pitch parameters (Pearson's correlation coefficient). Results: The singers (n = 60; 55% men, 45% women; respective mean age: 34.24, 35.92 years; average singing career: 12.56 years) had thoracic breathing before treatment [average pitch-range: 92.8 Hz; 85.84 Hz (men), 101.29 Hz (women)] that turned to abdominal type post-therapy [average pitch-range: 189.21 Hz; 178.54 Hz (men), 202.25 Hz (women)]. The decrease in the mean lowest pitch was significant by paired t-test in both men and women (t = 7.96 and 7.87, respectively; .0001 significant level of test), as also the increase in mean highest pitch (t = 23.85 and 17.45, respectively; .0001 significant level of test) and change in pitch range (t = 19.45 and 17.37, respectively; .0001 significant level of test). Correlations between age/career duration with pitch range before and after therapy and its difference varied from very poor to fair [respectively, for men and women, age with pitch range: r = -.54, r = .03 (pre-therapy); r = .045, r = -.39 (post-therapy); age with difference in pitch range: r = .21, r = -.30; singing career with pitch-range: r = -.36, r = .25 (pre-therapy); r = .3, r = -.5 (post-therapy); singing career with difference in pitch range: r = .29, r = -.51]. Conclusions: Voice therapy directed to change respiratory kinematics from thoracic to diaphragmatic-abdominal was significant in the restoration of acoustic voice parameters in professional singers. Their age and duration of singing career had limited roles as adjuncts to voice therapy in the process.

Fetal ECG-based analysis reveals the impact of fetal movements and maternal respiration on maternal-fetal heart rate synchronization

Identifying and understanding prenatal developmental disorders at an early stage are crucial as fetal brain development has long-term effects on an individual’s life. The maturation of the fetal autonomic nervous system (ANS) is believed to influence the coordination and direction of maternal-fetal heartbeat synchronization. Fetal behavioral states (FBSes) include quiet sleep (1F), active sleep (2F), quiet awake (3F), and active awake (4F). In this study, the focus is on fetal movements, leading to the grouping of 1F and 3F into a quiet state, while 2F and 4F are combined to form an active state. Thus, the FBSes discussed in this article consist of fetal quiet and active states. Here, we explore the relationship between FBSes and the coupling of maternal and fetal heartbeats. We also seek to understand how maternal breathing patterns influence this coupling while considering FBSes. The study involved 105 healthy fetuses with gestational ages (GA) from 20 to 40 weeks. Non-invasive electrocardiogram (ECG) signals were recorded for 3 to 10 minutes. The ECG samples were separated into three gestational groups (Early: 16 ≤ GA < 25, Mid: 25 ≤ GA < 32, and Late: 32 ≤ GA < 40 weeks). Maternal respiration rate and coupling strength parameters were calculated for various maternal-fetal heartbeat coupling ratios. The findings of the study indicated that FBSes influenced maternal-fetal HR coupling strength during late gestation but not during early and mid-gestation. The changes in maternal-fetal HR synchronization or communication as gestation progresses occur in both FBSes. Furthermore, we noticed a significantly higher level of maternal-fetal heartbeat synchronization during periods of higher respiratory rates when the fetus was in a quiet state. These results emphasize how FBSes impact the synchronization of maternal-fetal HR and contribute to the understanding of fetal growth and health.

Multi-domain analysis of ultra-short-term HRV for breathing pattern classification in wearable health devices

This research paper introduces an innovative approach to classify heart rate variability (HRV) time series into paced and spontaneous breathing patterns to reflect changes in the autonomic nervous system. This type of classification is beneficial in wearable devices for stress/relaxation level detection and in deciding therapeutic interventions. The “Multi-Domain Approach” methodology integrates three different techniques: standard HRV features, fuzzy recurrence plot (FRP)-based FRP_GLCM, and empirical mode decomposition-based IMF_FRP_GLCM. The study concentrates on analyzing HRV time series within shorter data segments, aligning with the requirements of contemporary wearable health devices and biofeedback systems. HRV data collected during spontaneous and slow-paced breathing were analyzed across data segments of 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1 min, incorporating feature selection and reduction methods. Results demonstrated that standard HRV features yielded optimal performance for 5-min segments, achieving an average accuracy of 90%. Interestingly, IMF_FRP features achieved comparable accuracy even for 1-min segments. As segment duration decreased, standard HRV feature accuracy declined while IMF_FRP accuracy stayed intact, eventually matching 5-min segment accuracy levels. The study underscores the surging demand for shorter data segment HRV analysis, driven by advancements in wearable smart watches technology and mobile applications for monitoring health and managing stress.

Impact of microbial diversity on inflammatory cytokines and respiratory pattern measured in whole-body plethysmography in guinea pig models.

This study investigates the breathing patterns and immune status of guinea pigs raised under specific pathogen-free (SPF) conditions compared to conventionally bred (CON). Breathing pattern parameters were assessed using whole-body plethysmography (WBP) during quiet breathing and saline nebulisation. Blood and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were analysed for white blood cell, neutrophil and eosinophil counts, and cytokine levels (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-4). SPF guinea pigs exhibited higher tidal volume, expired volume, minute volume, and airflow parameters than CON guinea pigs. The immune analysis revealed lower white blood cell counts and IL-4 levels in SPF guinea pigs. These findings indicate that SPF guinea pigs have different respiratory and immune responses than CON guinea pigs. The study highlights that the maturation processes affecting breathing pattern parameters in SPF guinea pigs differ significantly from those in CON guinea pigs. This suggests potential limitations of SPF animals in respiratory physiology research due to their different immune and respiratory responses.

Ceramic nanoparticle based flexible hydrovoltaic devices for tactile and respiratory signal detection

Devices that utilize water evaporation or moisture to generate electricity have received significant research attention in the field of energy conversion and harvesting. Herein, a device capable of generating electricity through the process of water evaporation has been created, utilizing medical nonwoven fabric as a porous substrate with simple dip-coating and spray-coating techniques. The device constructs a multitude of nanopores on the substrate by employing a blend of Al2O3 nanoparticles of varying dimensions. The electrical output of the device was stable at 0.55 V and 6 μA from a small water supply, as confirmed by the test. The device can easily recognize the click of a finger through the release of minuscule amounts of water during the contact. Furthermore, the device has the ability to recognize various breathing patterns, such as normal breathing, rapid breathing, and wheezing that may induced by diseases. This work developed a flexible device for power generation by water evaporation process and provides a referable idea for human related humidity sensing.

The neurobiological link between prayer, breath control and serotonin release

The relationship between spirituality, physical well-being, and mental health has long intrigued researchers, with growing interest in understanding the neurobiological mechanisms underlying practices such as prayer and breath control. This review explores the neurobiological link between prayer, controlled breathing, and the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter essential for regulating mood, emotional balance, and overall mental well-being. Emerging evidence suggests that specific prayer practices, particularly those involving rhythmic breathing patterns, activate key brain regions associated with emotional regulation and serotonin synthesis. By engaging the parasympathetic nervous system, breath control during prayer induces a relaxation response, potentially modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and enhancing serotonin production. Additionally, the meditative aspects of prayer may further support neurochemical balance by reducing stress and promoting feelings of inner peace. Through an interdisciplinary examination of neurophysiology, psychology, and spirituality, this review highlights how prayer combined with breath control can serve as a non-invasive, holistic method for enhancing serotonin release and improving mental health outcomes. Future research directions are proposed to deepen the understanding of these practices within both clinical and everyday settings.

Adenoidal nasopharyngeal ratio and its correlation with skeletal class II malocclusion in children: A cross-sectional study

Introduction: The relationship between skeletal class II malocclusion and airway has gained significant interest in the field of orthodontics and is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Various etiologies contribute to airway obstruction, which may disrupt the breathing pattern and swallowing functions, affecting the development of the craniofacial complex and consequently resulting in the development of skeletal Class II malocclusion. Adenoid hypertrophy (AH) has been linked to cardiopulmonary complications, craniofacial growth disturbances and obstructive sleep apnea. Patients with AH often exhibit a characteristic adenoid face and mouth breathing pattern with a narrow constricted maxillary arch and retrognathic mandible. Adenoidal- nasopharyngeal ratio is a simple linear measurement obtained from lateral cephalograms that can reliably express adenoidal size and patency of the nasopharyngeal airway and give further insight into the etiology of development of class II malocclusion and correlation with the same. Materials and methods: Sample of 40 individuals between 10-16 years of age was divided into two groups of 20 each based on their ANB angle, Group A comprised of individuals showing skeletal class I and group B showing skeletal class II malocclusion respectively. Lateral cephalograms were taken and AN ratio was assessed using the Fujioka et al method for both groups. AN ratios were correlated with skeletal class of malocclusion and values of both groups were compared.

Algorithmically Enhanced Wearable Multimodal Emotion Sensor

Sensing diverse human emotions offers significant potential for understanding deeper cognitive processes and diagnosing neurological diseases. However, capturing the full spectrum of emotions remains a significant challenge due to their intricate and subjective nature. Traditional emotion‐sensing techniques often focus on singular emotions, limiting their ability to grasp the complexity of emotional experiences. Herein, a fully printed, organic wearable sensor capable of multimodal emotion sensing by noninvasively monitoring physiological indicators such as heart rate, breathing patterns, and voice signatures is presented. The recorded signals are processed using a long short‐term memory (LSTM) neural network, achieving over 91% classification accuracy in distinguishing different emotions through a data fusion approach, showing >9% enhancement in accuracy as compared to feature fusion. As a proof of concept, Q‐learning is implemented with the data to simulate emotional responses in a robotic model. The study's approach provides a pathway to understanding complex human emotions and enhances the capabilities of effective human–machine interaction.

An International Factorial Vignette-Based Survey of Intubation Decisions in Acute Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure.

Intubation is a common procedure in acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF), with minimal evidence to guide decision-making. We conducted a survey of when to intubate patients with AHRF to measure the influence of clinical variables on intubation decision-making and quantify variability. Factorial vignette-based survey asking "Would you recommend intubation?" Respondents selected an ordinal recommendation from a 5-point scale ranging from "Definite no" to "Definite yes" for up to ten randomly allocated vignettes. We used Bayesian proportional odds modeling, with clustering by individual, country, and region, to calculate mean odds ratios (ORs) with 95% credible intervals (CrIs). Anonymous web-based survey. Clinicians involved in the decision to intubate. None. Between September 2023 and January 2024, 2,294 respondents entered 17,235 vignette responses in 74 countries (most common: Canada [29%], United States [26%], France [9%], Japan [8%], and Thailand [5%]). Respondents were attending physicians (63%), nurses (13%), trainee physicians (9%), respiratory therapists (9%), and other (6%). Lower oxygen saturation, higher Fio2, noninvasive ventilation compared with high-flow, tachypnea, neck muscle use, abdominal paradox, drowsiness, and inability to obey were associated with increased odds of intubation; diagnosis, vasopressors, and duration of symptoms were not. Nurses were less likely than physicians to recommend intubation. Within a country, the odds of recommending intubation changed between clinicians by an average factor of 2.60; within a region, the same odds changed between countries by 1.56. Respondents from Canada (OR, 0.53; CrI, 0.40-0.70) and the United States (OR, 0.63; CrI, 0.48-0.84) were less likely to recommend intubation than respondents from most other countries. In this international, multiprofessional survey of 2294 clinicians, intubation for patients with AHRF was mostly decided based on oxygenation, breathing pattern, and consciousness, but there was important variation across individuals and countries.

Discriminating Parkinson’s disease patients from healthy controls using nasal respiratory airflow

BackgroundBreathing patterns may inform on health. We note that the sites of earliest brain damage in Parkinson’s disease (PD) house the neural pace-makers of respiration. We therefore hypothesized that ongoing long-term temporal dynamics of respiration may be altered in PD.MethodsWe applied a wearable device that precisely logs nasal airflow over time in 28 PD patients (mostly H&Y stage-II) and 33 matched healthy controls. Each participant wore the device for 24 h of otherwise routine daily living.ResultsWe observe significantly altered temporal patterns of nasal airflow in PD, where inhalations are longer and less variable than in matched controls (mean PD = −1.22 ± 1.9 (combined respiratory features score), Control = 1.04 ± 2.16, Wilcoxon rank-sum test, z = −4.1, effect size Cliff’s δ = −0.61, 95% confidence interval = −0.79 – (−0.34), P = 4.3 × 10−5). The extent of alteration is such that using only 30 min of recording we detect PD at 87% accuracy (AUC = 0.85, 79% sensitivity (22 of 28), 94% specificity (31 of 33), z = 5.7, p = 3.5 × 10−9), and also predict disease severity (correlation with UPDRS-Total score: r = 0.49; P = 0.008).ConclusionsWe conclude that breathing patterns are altered by H&Y stage-II in the disease cascade, and our methods may be further refined in the future to provide an indication with diagnostic and prognostic value.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of the General Population toward Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Al-Baha Region, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract Context: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in children is characterized by partial or complete upper airway obstruction during sleep, leading to disrupted breathing and altered sleep patterns. Prompt diagnosis and intervention are crucial for preventing severe health complications. Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to pediatric OSA among residents of the Al-Baha region, Saudi Arabia, and explore associations with sociodemographic factors to improve the health outcomes and quality of life of the affected children. Settings and Design: The study design was an observational cross-sectional study. Subjects and Methods: From the general public in the Al-Baha region, 413 participants were recruited through an online self-administered questionnaire. Data were collected between May 4 and June 5, 2024. Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistics, frequency distributions, and Chi-square test. Results: The majority of participants were predominantly female (66.3%) and aged 18–30 years (61%). Most participants were single and held a bachelor’s degree. An adequate level of knowledge about OSA was demonstrated by 64% of the participants, 78% exhibited a positive attitude, and 62% showed an adequate practice level. Young adults and females had the highest levels of knowledge and positive attitudes, with females also displaying better practice habits than males. Participants with 1–3 children demonstrated better practice levels than those with more children. Conclusion: Adequate awareness of pediatric OSA was demonstrated in the Al-Baha region, particularly among young adults and females. Positive attitudes and effective practices are influenced by education and profession. While current awareness efforts are effective, targeted interventions can further improve knowledge and practice.

Kinematic signature of high risk labored breathing revealed by novel signal analysis

Breathing patterns (respiratory kinematics) contain vital prognostic information. This dimension of physiology is not captured by conventional vital signs. We sought to determine the feasibility and utility of quantifying respiratory kinematics. Using inertial sensors, we analyzed upper rib, lower rib, and abdominal motion of 108 patients with respiratory symptoms during a hospital encounter (582 two-minute recordings). We extracted 34 features based on an explainable correspondence with well-established breathing patterns. K-means clustering revealed that respiratory kinematics had three dimensions apart from the respiratory rate. We represented these dimensions using respiratory rate variability, respiratory alternans (rib-predominant breaths alternating with abdomen-predominant ones), and recruitment of accessory muscles (increased upper rib excursion). Latent profile analysis of the kinematic measures revealed two profiles consistent with the established clinical constructs of labored and unlabored breathing. In logistic regression, the labored breathing profile improved model discrimination for critical illness beyond the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score (AUROC 0.77 v/s 0.72; p = 0.02). These findings quantitatively confirm the prior understanding that the respiratory rate alone does not adequately represent the complexity of respiratory kinematics; they demonstrate that high-dimensional signatures of labored breathing can be quantified in routine practice settings, and they can improve predictions of clinical deterioration.

Empirical Testing of a Middle-Range Theory for Ineffective Breathing Pattern in Children With Congenital Heart Disease.

To test a middle-range theory (MRT) for the nursing diagnosis of ineffective breathing pattern in children with congenital heart disease (CHD) based on analysis of two general propositions. This cross-sectional study is guided by STROBE. The propositions represent hypotheses about the relationships between the concepts of this MRT to be tested empirically, and thus, log-linear models were used to verify the structure of the proposition related to the stimuli. Diagnostic accuracy measures, univariate logistic regressions and the Mann-Whitney test were used to analyse the structure of the propositions related to behaviours. The analysis of the propositions related to the stimuli (eight concepts, four of which were classified as focal stimuli and four as contextual stimuli) suggested a reclassification of the stimulus "deformities in the thoracic wall" which became too focal. In the analysis of the propositions related to behaviours (17 concepts, five of which were classified as acute confirmatory, nine as acute clinical deterioration and three classified as chronic), guided changes in the operationalisation of concepts were suggested after comparing clinical findings; thus, acute confirmatory behaviours now have 10 concepts, while acute clinical deterioration behaviours and chronic behaviours continued with nine and three concepts, respectively, but with reclassifications between them. Changes in the operationalisation of the classification of the elements of the two propositions occurred after comparing the clinical findings with the theoretical model. By establishing precise causal relationships and describing how IBP manifests itself over time in children with CHD, empirical testing of this MRT helps nurses understand clinical reasoning based on temporal logic and spectral interaction between diagnostic components, which in turn will improve the use and accuracy of nursing diagnoses. Children and adolescents with CHD were recruited for this study sharing their clinical history and physical lung examination.

Interactions between arousal state and CO₂ determine the activity of central chemoreceptor neurons that drive breathing.

The homeostatic regulation of pulmonary ventilation, and ultimately arterial PCO2, depends on interactions between respiratory chemoreflexes and arousal state. The ventilatory response to CO2 is triggered by neurons in the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) that function as sensors of central pH, which can be identified in adulthood by expression of Phox2b and Neuromedin B. Here we examine the dynamic response of genetically-defined RTN neurons to hypercapnia and arousal state in freely-behaving adult male and female mice using the calcium indicator jGCaMP7 and fiber photometry. We found that hypercapnia vigorously activates RTN neurons with a low CO2 recruitment threshold and with response kinetics that match respiratory activity whereas hypoxia had little effect. RTN activity increased transiently during wakefulness and respiratory-related arousals, rose persistently during REM sleep and their CO2 response persisted under anesthesia. Complementary studies using inhibitory optogenetics show that RTN activity supports eupneic breathing under anesthesia as well as during states of high arousal, but their activity is redundant for voluntary breathing patterns. Collectively, this study demonstrates that CO2-activated RTN neurons are exquisitely sensitive to arousal state, which determines their contribution to alveolar ventilation in relation to arterial PCO2 Significance statement Respiratory chemoreceptors stimulate neural respiratory motor output to regulate arterial PCO2 and PO2, thereby maintaining optimal gas exchange. Central chemoreceptor neurons expressing Phox2b and Neuromedin B in the Retrotrapezoid Nucleus (RTN) are required for the hypercapnia ventilatory response. However, the dynamic activity of RTN neurons in conditions of normal and elevated carbon dioxide has not been described in unanesthetized conditions. Here, we use a genetically-encoded calcium indicator to demonstrate that RTN neurons exquisitely sensitivity to hypercapnia and variations in arousal and sleep-state in freely-behaving mice. This work has implications for understanding the central control of breathing across arousal-states, particularly during sleep and anesthesia.

Respiratory Dysfunction and Abnormal Hypoxic Ventilatory Response in Mild to Moderate Parkinson's Disease.

Respiratory dysfunction is an important contributor to morbidity and mortality in advanced Parkinson's disease (PD), but it is unclear what parameters are sensitive to diagnose and monitor respiratory dysfunction across disease phases. We aimed to characterize respiratory dysfunction in mild to moderate PD. In 20 individuals without cardiopulmonary comorbidity, pulmonary and inspiratory muscle function testing were performed ON-medication. Subsequently, the acute ventilatory response to hypoxia (HVR) was assessed by gradually decreasing FIO2 from 0.209 (room air) to 0.127, which was compared to eight age- and sex-matched healthy controls under arterial blood gas monitoring. Lastly, on different days, the same 20 individuals with PD underwent six blinded exposures to 45-min normobaric hypoxia at FiO2 0.163 and 0.127 or placebo OFF-medication to assess breathing responses. At rest, individuals with greatest PD severity had a lower tidal volume (pairwise comparisons: 0.59 vs. 0.74, P = 0.038-0.050) and tended to have a higher breathing frequency (17.7 vs. 14.4, P = 0.076), despite normal pulmonary function. A 45-min exposure to hypoxia induced a significantly lower acute HVR in individuals with PD compared to controls (-0.0489 vs. 0.133 L.min/%, P = 0.0038). Acute HVR was reduced regardless of disease severity. Subacute HVR in individuals with milder disease tended to be higher compared to those with more advanced disease (P = 0.079). Respiratory dysfunction is present in individuals with PD, including those with relatively mild disease severity, and is characterized by altered breathing patterns at rest, as well as a lower HVR, despite normal pulmonary and inspiratory muscle function testing.

Influence of Oral Habits on Pediatric Malocclusion: Etiology and Preventive Approaches.

Teeth malocclusion refers to the misalignment of teeth and improper occlusion of the upper and lower jaws when the mouth is closed, which can lead to both aesthetic and functional issues such as difficulties with chewing, biting, and speech. These challenges may further contribute to broader health concerns. One of the major contributing factors to malocclusion in children is the presence of certain oral habits. Research has established a strong association between habits such as thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and mouth breathing and various malocclusion patterns, including anterior open bite, proclination, crowding, and posterior crossbite. This review seeks to examine these three primary deleterious oral habits, their impact on malocclusion, and effective prevention strategies to address these habits in pediatric patients.

Review on understanding of Astha Sthoulya Doshas and Sthoulya Lakshanas

Sthoulya is one among Santarpanotta Vikara and it is caused by Kapha Pradhana and Medodhushti. All the Santarponotta Nidanas and Medodhushti which will lead for Sthoulya. Sthoulya mainly features Chala Sphik Sthanah Udara Lambanam and Atisweda, Dhourgandy, Dourbalya as associated symptoms and these are considered as Sthoulya Doshas. Sthoulya leads to Kshudra Swasa and Alpaprana. Which implies the effect of Sthoulya on Pranavaha Srotas i.e., impairment in respiratory function which indicates Sthoulya does changes in normal breathing pattern. Life style disease and non-communicable diseases are major concern of health in present era. Obesity and Overweight are the major health care challenge that occupies the first place among non-communicable diseases creating an enormous socioeconomic and public health burden in most countries and is a worldwide epidemic. The worldwide prevalence of obesity nearly tripled between 1975 and 2020. Involvement of Meda, Agni, Kapha and Vata make the vicious curve of Samprapthi leading to chronic symptoms and complications like Ashta Sthoulya Doshas. Involved Agni and Ama in different stages which will make complicity to manage the Stholya and holistic approach is needed to treat the comorbidities like Ashta Sthoulya Doshas.

A portable wireless spirometer device for long-term pulmonary function monitoring and training

Portable wireless respiration sensing devices provide a promising solution to the limitations of traditional spirometers, offering practical options for daily use and long-term monitoring. In this study, we introduce a compact and lightweight respiration sensing device (4.2 × 4.6 × 8.3 cm3, ∼78 g) that delivers real-time wireless feedback, enabling users to assess their pulmonary functions and adjust their breathing patterns for effective breathing training. The parameters of the airflow sensor were determined through theoretical deformation calculations, ensuring a sensing range that covers all potential human respiratory values. Additionally, an optimized airway design significantly improves the device’s sensitivity, achieving approximately a 10.4-fold increase in airflow acceleration at the sensor position. This portable device features a cross-platform interactive graphical interface, making it suitable for various applications, such as convenient expiratory tests, daily exercise assessments, and breathing training. Experimental results demonstrate the device’s capability to accurately distinguish the expiratory characteristics of six volunteers and effectively track respiratory recovery following high-intensity exercise. Furthermore, the device integrates seamlessly into engaging games designed to promote consistent breathing training.

Rapid-response, low-detection-limit, positive-negative air pressure sensing: GaN chips integrated with hydrophobic PDMS films

Despite the importance of positive and negative pressure sensing in numerous domains, the availability of a single sensing unit adept at handling this dual task remains highly limited. This study introduces a compact optical device capable of swiftly and precisely detecting positive and negative pressures ranging from −35 kPa to 35 kPa. The GaN chip, which serves as a core component of the device, is monolithically integrated with light-emitting and light-detecting elements. By combining a deformable PDMS film coated with a hydrophobic layer, the chip can respond to changes in optical reflectance induced by pressure fluctuations. The integrated sensing device has low detection limits of 4.3 Pa and −7.8 Pa and fast response times of 0.14 s and 0.22 s for positive and negative pressure variations, respectively. The device also demonstrates adaptability in capturing distinct human breathing patterns. The proposed device, characterized by its compactness, responsiveness, and ease of operation, holds promise for a variety of pressure-sensing applications.