Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 12, 2026

Investigation into Deep Breathing through Measurement of Ventilatory Parameters and Observation of Breathing Patterns
Published on: September 16, 2019
Temporal differences in the detection of resistive and elastic loads to breathing
Abstract:
Two series of experiments were conducted on 8 healthy subjects to test for temporal differences in the detection of added resistive and elastic loads. In one series of experiments, 5 resistive loads were presented for single inspirations for a total of 10 presentations each. Subjects pressed a signal marker as soon as possible if they detected the load. In the second series, 5 elastic loads were tested using the same protocol The detection time (Tdet) for threshold resistive loads (deltaR50) occurred in mid-inspiration near Vmax whereas the Tdet for threshold D loads (delta E50) occurred near the end of inspiration. The differences in the detection times were significant (P less than 0.001). With suprathreshold loads, detection times progressively decreased reaching a minimum value with total occlusion. These results demonstrate unique temporal differences in the patterns of sensory information generated by added resistive and elastic loads and suggest that the intensity of the information is flow dependent for resistive loads and volume dependent for elastic loads.
Related Concept Videos
Respiratory Volumes and Capacities I
Assessment of Ventilation II: Respiratory Depth and Rhythm
Respiratory depth measures the volume of air inhaled or exhaled during a breath. It can vary from shallow to deep and typically remains consistent when a person is at rest or asleep. Occasionally, individuals will automatically inhale deeply, known as sighing, which inflates the lungs with more air than normal breathing.
To assess respiratory depth, observe the degree of chest excursion or movement:
Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract II: Inspection
Chest Configuration
The chest configuration can...
Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract II: Palpation
Thoracic Palpation
Thoracic palpation detects tenderness, masses, lesions, respiratory excursions, and vocal fremitus. The nurse assesses...
Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract III: Percussion
Percussion in Respiratory Assessment
Percussion evaluates underlying tissue composition with audible and tactile vibrations,...
Respiratory System Abnormal Finding I: Inspection and Percussion
Inspection Findings
During an inspection, several findings may suggest the presence of respiratory distress or disease. Pursed-lip breathing, where exhalation is slowed by...

