American journal of respiratory and critical care medicine
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Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. · Jun 2015
Performance of a Novel Algorithm Using Automated Digital Microscopy for Diagnosing Tuberculosis.
TBDx automated microscopy is a novel technology that processes digital microscopic images to identify acid-fast bacilli (AFB). Use of TBDx as part of a diagnostic algorithm could improve the diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB), but its performance characteristics have not yet been formally tested. ⋯ TBDx used in diagnostic algorithms with GXP provided reasonable sensitivity and high specificity for active TB while dramatically reducing the number GXP tests performed. As a stand-alone microscopy system, its performance was equivalent to that of a highly experienced TB microscopist.
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Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. · Jun 2015
Pulmonary Gas Exchange Abnormalities in Mild COPD: Implications for Dyspnea and Exercise Intolerance.
Several studies in mild chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have shown a higher than normal ventilatory equivalent for carbon dioxide ([Formula: see text]e/[Formula: see text]co2) during exercise. Our objective was to examine pulmonary gas exchange abnormalities and the mechanisms of high [Formula: see text]e/[Formula: see text]co2 in mild COPD and its impact on dyspnea and exercise intolerance. ⋯ High Vd/Vt was the most consistent gas exchange abnormality in smokers with only mild spirometric abnormalities. Compensatory increases in minute ventilation during exercise maintained alveolar ventilation and arterial blood gas homeostasis but at the expense of earlier dynamic mechanical constraints, greater dyspnea, and exercise intolerance in mild COPD.
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Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. · Jun 2015
Practice GuidelineAn Official American Thoracic Society Statement: The Importance of Healthy Sleep. Recommendations and Future Priorities.
Despite substantial public interest, few recommendations on the promotion of good sleep health exist to educate health care providers and the general public on the importance of sleep for overall health. ⋯ Good quality and quantity of sleep are essential for good health and overall quality of life; therefore a strong recommendation was made for the implementation of public education programs on the importance of sleep health.