Sound-based cough peak flow estimation in patients with neuromuscular disorders.

Introduction/aims: Cough impairment is common in individuals with neuromuscular disorders and is associated with respiratory infections and shorter survival. Cough strength is assessed by measuring cough peak flow (CPF) using a flow meter, but this method requires a complex device setup and trained staff. The aim of the study is to evaluate the reliability of a smartphone app to estimate CPF based on cough sounds in a cohort of individuals with neuromuscular disorders.

Ultrasonographic and manometric study of the tongue as biomarkers of dysphagia in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Background: The possibility of having methods to assess dysphagia in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients in a minimally invasive manner could facilitate follow-up and allow performing of therapeutic interventions at earlier stages of the disease. The aim of the study was to analyze the role of tongue strength and thickness in ALS patients and their correlation with dysphagia and bulbar function.

Methods: A sample of outpatients with ALS was evaluated for demographic and clinical features.

[Short-stay respiratory unit: a new option for inpatient care].

Objective: The current pressure on conventional inpatient care units represents a very serious problem for respiratory medicine departments. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of a new instrument --a short-stay respiratory unit-- on the quality of care delivered by the respiratory medicine department of a tertiary care hospital.

Material And Methods: The short-stay respiratory unit consisted of 4 conventional hospital beds managed by a pulmonologist.