HMGB1 and Sepsis: Related studies have demonstrated that the expression levels of HMGB1 are associated with diaphragmatic dysfunction in caecal ligation and puncture in animals and that the administration of anti‐HMGB1 antibodies can effectively attenuate sepsis‐induced diaphragm dysfunction in septic rats.26, 28 Several related studies have demonstrated that ethyl pyruvate, a potent free radical scavenger, can inhibit HMGB1 production and improve the survival of critically ill patients.33, 34 Nevertheless, the use of ethyl pyruvate for the management of VIDD is still unexplored.