Mechanical behaviors of Flutter VRP1, Shaker, and Acapella devices.

Background: Flutter VRP1, Shaker, and Acapella are devices that combine positive expiratory pressure (PEP) and oscillations.

Objectives: To compare the mechanical performance of the Flutter VRP1, Shaker, and Acapella devices.

Methods: An experimental platform and a ventilator, used a flow generator at 5, 10, 15, 20, 26, and 32 L/min, were employed at angles of -30°, 0°, and +30° to evaluate Flutter VRP1 and Shaker, whereas Acapella was adjusted at intermediate, higher, and lower levels of resistance, including positive expiratory pressures (PEP) along with air outflow rates and oscillation frequencies.

[Spirometric values of obese and non-obese subjects on orthostatic, sitting and supine positions].

Background: It is possible that obesity could lead to pulmonary restriction with decreasing lung volumes. However, controversies about this restriction and its etiology still exist. Thus, the purpose of this report was to evaluate the effects of body weigh excess on spirometry, on three different body positions, evaluated by Body Mass Index (BMI), percentage of fatness and the ratio of abdominal girth to hip breadth (AG/HB).