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Search Results (271)

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29 pages, 5407 KiB  
Article
Noncontact Breathing Pattern Monitoring Using a 120 GHz Dual Radar System with Motion Interference Suppression
by Zihan Yang, Yinzhe Liu, Hao Yang, Jing Shi, Anyong Hu, Jun Xu, Xiaodong Zhuge and Jungang Miao
Biosensors 2025, 15(8), 486; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios15080486 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 356
Abstract
Continuous monitoring of respiratory patterns is essential for disease diagnosis and daily health care. Contact medical devices enable reliable respiratory monitoring, but can cause discomfort and are limited in some settings. Radar offers a noncontact respiration measurement method for continuous, real-time, high-precision monitoring. [...] Read more.
Continuous monitoring of respiratory patterns is essential for disease diagnosis and daily health care. Contact medical devices enable reliable respiratory monitoring, but can cause discomfort and are limited in some settings. Radar offers a noncontact respiration measurement method for continuous, real-time, high-precision monitoring. However, it is difficult for a single radar to characterize the coordination of chest and abdominal movements during measured breathing. Moreover, motion interference during prolonged measurements can seriously affect accuracy. This study proposes a dual radar system with customized narrow-beam antennas and signals to measure the chest and abdomen separately, and an adaptive dynamic time warping (DTW) algorithm is used to effectively suppress motion interference. The system is capable of reconstructing respiratory waveforms of the chest and abdomen, and robustly extracting various respiratory parameters via motion interference. Experiments on 35 healthy subjects, 2 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and 1 patient with heart failure showed a high correlation between radar and respiratory belt signals, with correlation coefficients of 0.92 for both the chest and abdomen, a root mean square error of 0.80 bpm for the respiratory rate, and a mean absolute error of 3.4° for the thoracoabdominal phase angle. This system provides a noncontact method for prolonged respiratory monitoring, measurement of chest and abdominal asynchrony and apnea detection, showing promise for applications in respiratory disorder detection and home monitoring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wearable Biosensors)
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13 pages, 1990 KiB  
Article
Agreement Between a Pre-Markered T-Shirt and Manual Marker Placement for Opto-Electronic Plethysmography (OEP) Measures
by Nayani G. Adhikari, Eugénie Hunsicker, Matthew T. G. Pain, John W. Dickinson and Samantha L. Winter
Sensors 2025, 25(14), 4464; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25144464 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 297
Abstract
Opto-electronic plethysmography (OEP) is used to measure chest wall compartment volumes and their synchronisation. Breathing pattern disorder (BPD) can be distinguished using the phase angles between these chest wall compartments during exercise. However, the time taken to manually place the standard OEP model [...] Read more.
Opto-electronic plethysmography (OEP) is used to measure chest wall compartment volumes and their synchronisation. Breathing pattern disorder (BPD) can be distinguished using the phase angles between these chest wall compartments during exercise. However, the time taken to manually place the standard OEP model involving 89 reflective markers is high during clinical application. The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of a pre-markered T-shirt instead of markers applied directly to the skin at rest, during different exercise intensities and recovery. Thirty-nine healthy participants (24 male, 15 female) aged 18–40 years performed an incremental cycling test with the skin-mounted OEP marker set. Participants then repeated the same cycling test with a pre-markered T-shirt. Across all test conditions, the T-shirt showed a strong level of agreement (Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) ≥ 0.9) with the standard breath-by-breath (BbB) gas analyser. Moreover, ICC values exceeded 0.8 for compartment contributions across all test conditions, indicating excellent agreement with the skin-mounted markers. The phase angles between compartments showed the best agreement during the moderate exercise level (0.6 < ICC < 0.8). In conclusion, the pre-markered T-shirt presents a viable solution for the quick monitoring of breathing patterns, as well as an effective tool in diagnosing BPD during exercise. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Sensing for Healthcare Transformation)
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20 pages, 777 KiB  
Article
Multidisciplinary Approaches to Tongue Thrust Management in Australia: An Exploratory Study
by Sharon Smart, Julia Dekenah, Ashleigh Joel, Holly Newman and Kelly Milner
Int. J. Orofac. Myol. Myofunct. Ther. 2025, 51(2), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijom51020007 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 530
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Tongue thrust (TT) occurs when abnormal tongue movements cause anterior tongue placement with pressure and contact against or between the teeth, potentially affecting the oral phase of swallowing, impacting eating, breathing and speaking. There is limited literature on the diagnostic and treatment [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Tongue thrust (TT) occurs when abnormal tongue movements cause anterior tongue placement with pressure and contact against or between the teeth, potentially affecting the oral phase of swallowing, impacting eating, breathing and speaking. There is limited literature on the diagnostic and treatment approaches for TT, as well as involvement of health practitioners in its management. This study aims to examine the current knowledge and practices related to TT diagnosis and treatment among health professionals in Australia. Methods: A two-phase explanatory sequential mixed methods approach was adopted, comprising an online survey that collected participants’ demographic information and details on assessment, diagnosis, management, referral practices, and relevant experience and training. Phase one involved 47 health professionals from various disciplines in Australia who completed an online survey in its entirety. Phase two included in-depth interviews with seven speech-language pathologists (SLPs) to gain further insights into their experiences in managing TT. Survey data were analysed descriptively, and interview data was analysed thematically. Results: Most participants diagnosed TT using clinical assessments, such as general observation and oral motor examinations. Treatment approaches commonly included orofacial myofunctional therapy and the use of myofunctional devices. Interviews with SLPs identified four key themes: tongue thrust as a symptom rather than a diagnosis, facilitators to effective treatment, multidisciplinary approaches to management, and training and education gaps in clinical practice. Conclusions: This study provides valuable insights into how TT is identified, assessed, diagnosed, and managed by health professionals in Australia. It highlights the perspectives of SLPs on treatment approaches, as well as their views on the availability and adequacy of training and education in this field. The findings suggest the need for a broader understanding of TT management, emphasising the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration and professional development. These insights are globally relevant, as they stress the shared challenges and the value of international collaboration in improving TT diagnosis and treatment practices. Full article
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34 pages, 25005 KiB  
Article
Indoor Transmission of Respiratory Droplets Under Different Ventilation Systems Using the Eulerian Approach for the Dispersed Phase
by Yi Feng, Dongyue Li, Daniele Marchisio, Marco Vanni and Antonio Buffo
Fluids 2025, 10(7), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/fluids10070185 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 371
Abstract
Infectious diseases can spread through virus-laden respiratory droplets exhaled into the air. Ventilation systems are crucial in indoor settings as they can dilute or eliminate these droplets, underscoring the importance of understanding their efficacy in the management of indoor infections. Within the field [...] Read more.
Infectious diseases can spread through virus-laden respiratory droplets exhaled into the air. Ventilation systems are crucial in indoor settings as they can dilute or eliminate these droplets, underscoring the importance of understanding their efficacy in the management of indoor infections. Within the field of fluid dynamics methods, the dispersed droplets may be approached through either a Lagrangian framework or an Eulerian framework. In this study, various Eulerian methodologies are systematically compared against the Eulerian–Lagrangian (E-L) approach across three different scenarios: the pseudo-single-phase model (PSPM) for assessing the transport of gaseous pollutants in an office with displacement ventilation (DV), stratum ventilation (SV), and mixing ventilation (MV); the two-fluid model (TFM) for evaluating the transport of non-evaporating particles within an office with DV and MV; and the two-fluid model-population balance equation (TFM-PBE) approach for analyzing the transport of evaporating droplets in a ward with MV. The Eulerian and Lagrangian approaches present similar agreement with the experimental data, indicating that the two approaches are comparable in accuracy. The computational cost of the E-L approach is closely related to the number of tracked droplets; therefore, the Eulerian approach is recommended when the number of droplets required by the simulation is large. Finally, the performances of DV, SV, and MV are presented and discussed. DV creates a stratified environment due to buoyant flows, which transport respiratory droplets upward. MV provides a well-mixed environment, resulting in a uniform dispersion of droplets. SV supplies fresh air directly to the breathing zone, thereby effectively reducing infection risk. Consequently, DV and SV are preferred to reduce indoor infection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Respiratory Flows)
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18 pages, 1001 KiB  
Article
Time-Resolved Information-Theoretic and Spectral Analysis of fNIRS Signals from Multi-Channel Prototypal Device
by Irene Franzone, Yuri Antonacci, Fabrizio Giuliano, Riccardo Pernice, Alessandro Busacca, Luca Faes and Giuseppe Costantino Giaconia
Entropy 2025, 27(7), 694; https://doi.org/10.3390/e27070694 - 28 Jun 2025
Viewed by 341
Abstract
Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a non-invasive imaging technique that measures brain hemodynamic activity by detecting changes in oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin concentrations using light in the near-infrared spectrum. This study aims to provide a comprehensive characterization of fNIRS signals acquired with a prototypal [...] Read more.
Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a non-invasive imaging technique that measures brain hemodynamic activity by detecting changes in oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin concentrations using light in the near-infrared spectrum. This study aims to provide a comprehensive characterization of fNIRS signals acquired with a prototypal continuous-wave fNIRS device during a breath-holding task, to evaluate the impact of respiratory activity on scalp hemodynamics within the framework of Network Physiology. To this end, information-theoretic and spectral analysis methods were applied to characterize the dynamics of fNIRS signals. In the time domain, time-resolved information-theoretic measures, including entropy, conditional entropy and, information storage, were employed to assess the complexity and predictability of the fNIRS signals. These measures highlighted distinct informational dynamics across the breathing and apnea phases, with conditional entropy showing a significant modulation driven by respiratory activity. In the frequency domain, power spectral density was estimated using a parametric method, allowing the identification of distinct frequency bands related to vascular and respiratory components. The analysis revealed significant modulations in both the amplitude and frequency of oscillations during the task, particularly in the high-frequency band associated with respiratory activity. Our observations demonstrate that the proposed analysis provides novel insights into the characterization of fNIRS signals, enhancing the understanding of the impact of task-induced peripheral cardiovascular responses on NIRS hemodynamics. Full article
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14 pages, 244 KiB  
Article
Validation of a Questionnaire on the Post-COVID-19 Condition (Long COVID): A Cross-Sectional Study in Italy
by Angelo Cianciulli, Emanuela Santoro, Roberta Manente, Antonietta Pacifico, Gianni Comunale, Marika Finizio, Mario Capunzo, Francesco De Caro, Gianluigi Franci, Giuseppina Moccia and Giovanni Boccia
Infect. Dis. Rep. 2025, 17(3), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr17030069 - 11 Jun 2025
Viewed by 433
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Long COVID is a condition that was initially recognized by social support groups, and later by the scientific and medical communities. It affects COVID-19 survivors at various levels of severity, including young people, children and non-hospitalized people. Although the exact definition is [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Long COVID is a condition that was initially recognized by social support groups, and later by the scientific and medical communities. It affects COVID-19 survivors at various levels of severity, including young people, children and non-hospitalized people. Although the exact definition is unclear, the most common symptoms are fatigue and shortness of breath, which persist for months. Other symptoms include cognitive impairment, pain, palpitations, and gastrointestinal and heart problems. This study evaluated the reliability and validity of a questionnaire designed to examine the development and effects of long COVID. Methods: A questionnaire, composed of three sections, with a total of 24 items, was administered to subjects who had recovered from the COVID-19 disease in Italy. Data were collected from February to April 2025, and a statistical analysis was performed using R® statistical software for Windows, version 4.3.3. Cronbach’s alpha was tested to check internal consistency. The questionnaire was completed voluntarily and anonymously by 250 individuals who had recovered from the SARS-CoV-2 infection. The questionnaire was self-administered and had open and structured questions. Results: The highest value of Cronbach’s alpha was found on 18 items (alpha = 0.97), which means that the questionnaire has satisfactory internal validity. Conclusions: This study highlights and confirms the continuity of symptoms manifested during the acute phase of the SARS-CoV-2 infection in the post-COVID-19 phase and the significant impact of these symptoms on daily life activities. Given its excellent reliability properties and high internal consistency, the instrument is recommended for future longitudinal studies and with large cohorts in order to carry out valid and replicable measurements of COVID-19 symptomatology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Infection Prevention and Control)
25 pages, 38520 KiB  
Article
A Novel Audio-Perception-Based Algorithm for Physiological Monitoring
by Zixuan Zhang, Wenxuan Jin, Dejiao Huang and Zhongwei Sun
Sensors 2025, 25(12), 3582; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25123582 - 6 Jun 2025
Viewed by 487
Abstract
Exercise metrics are critical for assessing health, but real-time heart rate and respiration measurements remain challenging. We propose a physiological monitoring system that uses an in-ear microphone to extract heart rate and respiration from faint ear canal signals. An improved non-negative matrix factorization [...] Read more.
Exercise metrics are critical for assessing health, but real-time heart rate and respiration measurements remain challenging. We propose a physiological monitoring system that uses an in-ear microphone to extract heart rate and respiration from faint ear canal signals. An improved non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) algorithm combines with a short-time Fourier transform (STFT) to separate physiological components, while an inverse Fourier transform (IFT) reconstructs the signal. The earplug effect enhances the low-frequency components, thereby improving the signal quality and noise immunity. Heart rate is derived from short-term energy and zero-crossing rate, while a BiLSTM-based model can refine the breathing phases and calculate indicators such as respiratory rate. Experiments have shown that the average accuracy can reach 91% under various conditions, exceeding 90% in different environments and under different weights, thus ensuring the system’s robustness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)
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36 pages, 2458 KiB  
Review
Limonene Detection in the Exhaled Human Breath Providing an Early Diagnosis Method of Liver Diseases
by Erich Kny, Christoph Kleber and Wiktor Luczak
Chemosensors 2025, 13(6), 204; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemosensors13060204 - 3 Jun 2025
Viewed by 2105
Abstract
This review aims to summarize possible methods for the detection of limonene in the gas phase at low to very low concentrations. Limonene has historically been of interest as a fragrance in cosmetics, the food industry, pharmaceutics, and the production of solvents. The [...] Read more.
This review aims to summarize possible methods for the detection of limonene in the gas phase at low to very low concentrations. Limonene has historically been of interest as a fragrance in cosmetics, the food industry, pharmaceutics, and the production of solvents. The development of analytical methods for limonene was initially driven by its use in relevant industries such as chemical, pharmaceutics, cosmetics, food, agriculture, and forestry. More recently, it has been recognized as a potent biomarker for human metabolic conditions, such as liver disease and certain cancers. The interest in improved limonene detection in exhaled human breath has increased, particularly from the medical field, which demands high reliability, very low detection limits in the parts per billion (ppb) and even parts per trillion (ppt) range, and excellent selectivity against other exhaled volatile organic compounds (VOC). In addition, the detection methods should be portable and affordable to facilitate potential mass screening. This review paper aims to explore all possible detection methods by evaluating their proven analytical capabilities for limonene or discussing their potential usefulness, benefits, and applicability for limonene detection. Full article
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13 pages, 6186 KiB  
Article
Experimental Estimation of Kinematic Viscosity of Low-Density Air Using Optically Derived Macroscopic Transient Flow Parameters
by Tomasz Aleksander Miś
Sensors 2025, 25(11), 3375; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25113375 - 27 May 2025
Viewed by 340
Abstract
This article presents a novel experimental method of calculation of kinematic viscosity parameter for rarefied/low-density air using the analysis of optically recorded oscillations of the stratospheric balloon mission parachute’s canopy. The parachute behavior was captured by a high-definition optical device in the stratosphere [...] Read more.
This article presents a novel experimental method of calculation of kinematic viscosity parameter for rarefied/low-density air using the analysis of optically recorded oscillations of the stratospheric balloon mission parachute’s canopy. The parachute behavior was captured by a high-definition optical device in the stratosphere during the re-entry phase, giving the input data for the Roshko and Reynolds numbers, which were used in an adapted formula to determine the kinematic viscosity. The calculated parameter was compared with laboratory literature data, showing good alignment, with any sources of discrepancies indicated and discussed. The canopy-breathing method of determination of kinematic viscosity in rarefied air can be employed for the easy investigation of real atmospheric parameters, helpful in the analysis of atmospheric and ionospheric mass flows and the design and performance verification of various novel types of parachutes and re-entry devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Remote Sensing in Atmospheric Measurements)
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20 pages, 6160 KiB  
Article
A Computational Approach to Increasing the Antenna System’s Sensitivity in a Doppler Radar Designed to Detect Human Vital Signs in the UHF-SHF Frequency Ranges
by David Vatamanu and Simona Miclaus
Sensors 2025, 25(10), 3235; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25103235 - 21 May 2025
Viewed by 943
Abstract
In the context of Doppler radar, studies have examined the changes in the phase shift of the S21 transmission coefficient related to minute movements of the human chest as a response to breathing or heartbeat. Detecting human vital signs remains a challenge, [...] Read more.
In the context of Doppler radar, studies have examined the changes in the phase shift of the S21 transmission coefficient related to minute movements of the human chest as a response to breathing or heartbeat. Detecting human vital signs remains a challenge, especially when obstacles interfere with the attempt to detect the presence of life. The sensitivity of a measurement system’s perception of vital signs is highly dependent on the monitoring systems and antennas that are used. The current work proposes a computational approach that aims to extract an empirical law of the dependence of the phase shift of the transmission coefficient (S21) on the sensitivity at reception, based upon a set of four parameters. These variables are as follows: (a) the frequency of the continuous wave utilized; (b) the antenna type and its gain/directivity; (c) the electric field strength distribution on the chest surface (and its average value); and (d) the type of material (dielectric properties) impacted by the incident wave. The investigated frequency range is (1–20) GHz, while the simulations are generated using a doublet of dipole or gain-convenient identical Yagi antennas. The chest surface is represented by a planar rectangle that moves along a path of only 3 mm, with a step of 0.3 mm, mimicking respiration movement. The antenna–target system is modeled in the computational space in each new situation considered. The statistics illustrate the multiple regression function, empirically extracted. This enables the subsequent building of a continuous-wave bio-radar Doppler system with controlled and improved sensitivity. Full article
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10 pages, 732 KiB  
Article
Does Pilates Breathing Affect the Biceps Brachii Neuromuscular Efficiency During Submaximal Contraction?
by Denys Batista Campos, Maria de Cassia Gomes Souza Macedo, Kariny Realino do Rosário Ferreira, Arthur Ferreira Esquirio, Ana Clara Leal, Gabriela Lopes Gama and Alexandre Carvalho Barbosa
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 5528; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15105528 - 15 May 2025
Viewed by 479
Abstract
The Pilates breathing technique is theorized to improve neuromuscular efficiency, but its specific effects on peripheral muscles have not been thoroughly investigated. This study evaluated how Pilates breathing influenced the neuromuscular efficiency of the biceps brachii muscle during submaximal elbow flexion in comparison [...] Read more.
The Pilates breathing technique is theorized to improve neuromuscular efficiency, but its specific effects on peripheral muscles have not been thoroughly investigated. This study evaluated how Pilates breathing influenced the neuromuscular efficiency of the biceps brachii muscle during submaximal elbow flexion in comparison to regular breathing. Fifty-eight healthy adults without prior experience with the Pilates method of exercise performed concentric and eccentric elbow contractions at 20%, 40%, and 60% of their maximal voluntary isometric contraction under two breathing conditions: the specialized Pilates breathing pattern (executing movements exclusively during expiration) and normal breathing patterns. Muscle activity was measured using surface electromyography, with neuromuscular efficiency quantified as the relationship between muscle electrical activity and force production. The results revealed significantly improved neuromuscular efficiency during Pilates breathing at all tested intensity levels, with the most substantial enhancement observed at 60% of maximal effort. The eccentric phase of movement demonstrated greater efficiency gains compared to the concentric phase. These findings indicate that the distinct breathing pattern used in Pilates can independently enhance neuromuscular performance in the biceps brachii. This study suggests that incorporating Pilates breathing techniques could be beneficial in rehabilitation programs and strength training regimens to optimize both muscle function and movement efficiency. Additional research is recommended to examine the long-term effects and practical applications in clinical and athletic settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise Physiology and Biomechanics in Human Health: 2nd Edition)
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10 pages, 1735 KiB  
Communication
Wearable Humidity Sensor Using Cs3Cu2I5 Metal Halides with Hydroxyl Selective Phase Transition for Breath Monitoring
by Si Hyeok Yang, Lim Kyung Oh, Dong Ho Lee, Donghoon Gwak, Nara Song, Bowon Oh, Na Young Lee, Hongki Kim, Han Seul Kim and Jin Woo Choi
Biosensors 2025, 15(5), 311; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios15050311 - 13 May 2025
Viewed by 690
Abstract
The low-dimensional metal halide Cs3Cu2I5 exhibits unique electrical and chemical properties. Notably, it undergoes a phase transition to CsCu2I3 upon exposure to hydroxyl (-OH) gas, resulting in significant changes in its electrical characteristics. In this [...] Read more.
The low-dimensional metal halide Cs3Cu2I5 exhibits unique electrical and chemical properties. Notably, it undergoes a phase transition to CsCu2I3 upon exposure to hydroxyl (-OH) gas, resulting in significant changes in its electrical characteristics. In this study, we developed a highly selective semiconductor-based gas sensor utilizing Cs3Cu2I5. The material was synthesized on an Al2O3 substrate with carbon electrodes using a solution-based process, enabling gas sensing based on its electrical properties. The sensor was further integrated into an Arduino-based real-time monitoring system for wearable applications. The final system was mounted onto a face mask, enabling the real-time detection of human respiration. This research presents a next-generation sensor platform for real-time respiratory monitoring, demonstrating the potential of Cs3Cu2I5 in advanced wearable bio-gas sensing applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wearable Biosensors and Health Monitoring)
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18 pages, 2105 KiB  
Article
Effectiveness of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus: An Observational Study on Exposure to Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons and Associated Respiratory Risks
by Joana Teixeira, Cristina Delerue-Matos, Alice Santos-Silva, Francisca Rodrigues and Marta Oliveira
Fire 2025, 8(5), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire8050182 - 2 May 2025
Viewed by 600
Abstract
Background: An effective risk assessment and management methodology is essential to minimize/mitigate health risks associated with firefighting activities. The use of a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is mandatory during structure fires to protect firefighters from hazardous fire effluents, yet the protectiveness of the [...] Read more.
Background: An effective risk assessment and management methodology is essential to minimize/mitigate health risks associated with firefighting activities. The use of a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is mandatory during structure fires to protect firefighters from hazardous fire effluents, yet the protectiveness of the SCBA system has rarely been evaluated. Objective: This study characterizes, for the first time, the levels of 18 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) inside the SCBA facemask, during 7 structure-firefighting exercises and estimates associated respiratory risks. Methods: Cotton disk samples were collected via passive air sampling and analyzed using liquid chromatography with fluorescence and UV–Vis detection. Results: Levels of total PAHs (∑PAHs: 9.17–29.6 ng/m3) and ∑PAHscarcinogenic (0.41–5.73 ng/m3) were below the occupational limits defined by governmental agencies. The low-molecular-weight PAHs were predominant (79.5–91.4%), and the (possible/known) carcinogenic naphthalene (0.26–2.00 ng/m3), anthracene (0.088–0.31 ng/m3), chrysene (0.046–0.39 ng/m3), benzo(b+j)fluoranthene (0.18–0.40 ng/m3), and benzo(a)pyrene (0.041–0.18 ng/m3) were detected in all samples. The respiratory health risk analysis demonstrated negligible risks associated with the inhalation of PAHs. A health principal component analysis could identify firefighters at increased respiratory risk. Conclusions: The effectiveness of SCBA was demonstrated, reinforcing the need to ensure its correct use during all the phases of structure fires, including during overhaul. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Industrial Fire and Urban Fire Research: 2nd Edition)
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22 pages, 7708 KiB  
Article
Top and Side Leakage Effects on Thermoregulation and Moisture Retention with Facemask Wearing
by Kian Barari, Xiuhua Si, Rozhin Hajian and Jinxiang Xi
J. Respir. 2025, 5(2), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/jor5020005 - 3 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1113
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Mask-wearing-induced discomfort often leads to unconscious loosening of the mask to relieve the discomfort, thereby compromising protective efficacy. This study investigated how leakage flows affect mask-associated thermoregulation and vapor trapping to inform better mask designs. An integrated ambience–mask–face–airway model with various mask-wearing [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Mask-wearing-induced discomfort often leads to unconscious loosening of the mask to relieve the discomfort, thereby compromising protective efficacy. This study investigated how leakage flows affect mask-associated thermoregulation and vapor trapping to inform better mask designs. An integrated ambience–mask–face–airway model with various mask-wearing misfits was developed. Methods: The transient warming/cooling effects, thermal buoyancy force, tissue heat generation, vapor phase change, and fluid/heat/mass transfer through a porous medium were considered in this model, which was validated using Schlieren imaging, a thermal camera, and velocity/temperature measurements. Leakages from the top and side of the mask were analyzed in comparison to a no-leak scenario under cyclic respiration conditions. Results: A significant inverse relationship was observed between mask leakage and facial temperature/humidity. An equivalent impact from buoyancy forces and exhalation flow inertia was observed both experimentally and numerically, indicating a delicate balance between natural convection and forced convection, which is sensitive to leakage flows and critical in thermo-humidity regulation. For a given gap, the leakage fraction was not constant within one breathing cycle but constantly increased during exhalation. Persistently higher temperatures were found in the nose region throughout the breathing cycle in a sealed mask and were mitigated during inhalation when gaps were present. Vapor condensation occurred within the mask medium during exhalation in all mask-wearing cases. Conclusions: The thermal and vapor temporal variation profiles were sensitive to the location of the gap, highlighting the feasibility of leveraging temperature and relative humidity to test mask fit and quantify leakage fraction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Journal of Respiration)
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16 pages, 624 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in Prehospital and In-Hospital Management of Patients with Severe Trauma
by Jung-Youn Kim and Oh Hyun Kim
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(7), 2208; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14072208 - 24 Mar 2025
Viewed by 3980
Abstract
Background: Trauma is a major global public health concern. Many countries are working to reduce preventable deaths; however, the mortality rate remains higher than their goal, indicating a need for continuous development in trauma care, including further improvements across the system. This article [...] Read more.
Background: Trauma is a major global public health concern. Many countries are working to reduce preventable deaths; however, the mortality rate remains higher than their goal, indicating a need for continuous development in trauma care, including further improvements across the system. This article explores recent developments and updated guidelines for both prehospital emergency care and in-hospital trauma management, emphasizing evidence-based and patient-centered approaches. Current concepts: In the prehospital phase, the primary focus is on early and aggressive hemorrhage control using techniques such as tourniquet application, wound packing, and permissive hypotension as standard practices. Advancements in this field, including intraosseous vascular access and tranexamic acid administration, have improved patient outcomes. The emphasis on structured assessments, particularly “circulation, airway, breathing” (CAB) assessments, underscores the importance of managing life-threatening hemorrhages. During the in-hospital phase, the primary focus is on controlling bleeding. Protocols emphasize the judicious administration of fluids to prevent over-resuscitation and mitigate the risk of exacerbating coagulopathy. Efficient transfusion strategies are implemented to address hypovolemia, while ensuring balanced ratios of blood products. Furthermore, the implementation of advanced interfacility transfer systems and communication tools such as “Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation” (SBAR) plays a pivotal role in optimizing patient care and reducing delays in definitive treatment. Discussion and Conclusions: This review highlights the importance of implementing advanced strategies to align with international standards and further decrease the rate of preventable trauma-related deaths. Strengthening education and optimizing resource allocation for both prehospital and hospital-based trauma care are essential steps toward achieving these objectives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Emergency Medicine)
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