Fig. 1

Inspiratory effort, work of breathing, expiratory effort, and diaphragm excursion for the experimental groups at the beginning and end of the observation period. Data are expressed as median (interquartile range). Significant within-group differences are denoted by P < 0.05. Intergroup analysis: *Significant difference compared to the Unassisted group (positive control). †Significant difference compared to the MV group (negative control). ‡Significant difference comparing CPAP and HFNO groups. Time-dependent analysis: §Significant changes compared to T0. Abbreviations: HFNO, high-flow nasal oxygen; CPAP, Continuous positive airway pressure; MV, mechanical ventilation; ΔPes, swing of esophageal pressure; sEMG, surface electromyography; US, ultrasound.