Respiratory care
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Treatment of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Using Initial Combination Therapy of Bosentan and Iloprost.
Monotherapy and sequential combination therapy have been widely used in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). There is limited evidence for initial combination therapy in patients with PAH, particularly those with World Health Organization (WHO) functional class III or IV. ⋯ Initial combination therapy in treatment-naive PAH subjects with WHO functional class III or IV can significantly improve 6MWD, hemodynamics, and quality of life compared with monotherapy. Further studies with large samples and placebo controls are required to assess the tolerability and efficacy of initial combination therapy in patients with PAH. (ClinicalTrials.gov registration NCT01712997).
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Comparative Study
Accuracy of Oxygen Consumption and Carbon Dioxide Elimination Measurements in 2 Breath-by-Breath Devices.
Although accurate quantification of oxygen consumption (V̇O2 ) and carbon dioxide elimination (V̇CO2 ) provides important insights into a patient's nutritional and hemodynamic status, few devices exist to accurately measure these parameters in children. Therefore, we assessed the accuracy and agreement of 2 devices currently on the market using a pediatric in vitro model of gas exchange. ⋯ The E-COVX demonstrated bias and limits of agreement that were not clinically acceptable; therefore, application of this module to pediatric patients would not be recommended. The new module, E-sCAiOVX, demonstrated acceptable bias and limits of agreement for the V̇O2 and V̇CO2 in the range 40-100 mL/min (which corresponds to patients in the range of ∼5-16 kg).
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Comparative Study
Pressures and Oscillation Frequencies Generated by Bubble-Positive Expiratory Pressure Devices.
Positive expiratory pressure (PEP) devices are used to assist with airway clearance. Little is known about the therapist-made or commercially available bubble-PEP devices. The aim of this study was to determine the end-expiratory pressures (cm H2O) and oscillation frequencies (Hz) generated when a range of flows were applied to the therapist-made bubble-PEP devices (Bubble-PEP-3cm and Bubble-PEP-0cm) and commercial bubble-PEP devices (AguaPEP, Hydrapep, and Therabubble). ⋯ Bubble-PEP-3cm maintained the most stable pressure throughout the range of flows tested. All devices investigated produced similar oscillation frequencies.
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Multicenter Study
Time Required to Rectify Inhaler Errors Among Experienced Subjects With a Faulty Technique.
Regardless of the device used, many patients have difficulty maintaining proper inhaler technique over time. Repeated education from caregivers is required to ensure persistence of correct inhaler technique, but no information is available to evaluate the time required to rectify inhaler errors in experienced users with a baseline faulty technique and whether this time of re-education to restore inhaler mastery can differ between devices. ⋯ In experienced subjects with baseline faulty inhaler use, the mean time of education required to achieve and demonstrate mastery with DPIs was lower than with MDIs.
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Re-titrations, an atypical approach to reverse PAP failure, was investigated retrospectively. ⋯ Technology-related problems due to mask discomfort/leak, pressure intolerance, and residual breathing events were associated with PAP failure in subjects seeking second opinions. Technological solutions (changes in masks, modes, and pressures) were addressed during REPAP protocol, after which 72% of subjects re-initiated PAP use. These technological interventions were associated with improved objective and subjective sleep variables and reversal of PAP failure.