Chest
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Sample size determination is an essential step in planning a clinical study. It is critical to understand that different study designs need different methods of sample size estimation. Although there is a vast literature discussing sample size estimation, incorrect or improper formulas continue to be applied. ⋯ To assist clinical researchers in performing sample size calculations, we have developed an online calculator for common clinical study designs. The calculator is available at http://riskcalc.org:3838/samplesize/. Finally, we offer our recommendations on reporting sample size determination in clinical studies.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Randomized trial on the effects of high-dose zopiclone on OSA severity, upper airway physiology and alertness.
Studies indicate that standard doses of hypnotics reduce or do not change the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) or pharyngeal muscle activity. A 1-month trial of nightly zopiclone (7.5 mg) modestly reduced the AHI vs baseline without changing other sleep parameters or next-day sleepiness. ⋯ A single night of treatment with high-dose zopiclone does not systematically reduce the AHI or increase the arousal threshold in selected people with OSA. The mechanisms for these unexpected findings require further investigation.
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Despite the wide-ranging benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation, conflicting results remain regarding whether people with COPD can improve their peak oxygen uptake (V˙O2peak) with aerobic training. ⋯ PROSPERO; No.: CRD42018099300; URL: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/.
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Multicenter Study
Differences in clinical characteristics and outcomes between men and women with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: a multicenter retrospective cohort study.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a disease with a male predominance. Prior data suggest that male sex is associated with disease progression and survival. The basis for this sex difference is unknown. ⋯ Male sex is associated with worse transplant-free survival in IPF. Cough may be a sex-specific predictor of survival in this population.
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Case Reports
Treatment with convalescent plasma for critically ill patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
As of March 24, 2020, novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been responsible for 379,661 infection cases with 16,428 deaths globally, and the number is still increasing rapidly. Herein, we present four critically ill patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection who received supportive care and convalescent plasma. Although all four patients (including a pregnant woman) recovered from SARS-CoV-2 infection eventually, randomized trials are needed to eliminate the effect of other treatments and investigate the safety and efficacy of convalescent plasma therapy.