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The breathing pattern characterized by shallow breaths followed by irregular periods of apnea is known as Cheyne-Stokes respirations. This pattern is often seen in patients with certain medical conditions, such as heart failure or neurological issues, and is marked by a gradual increase in breathing depth followed by a decrease that leads to a temporary cessation of breathing.

The cyclic nature of Cheyne-Stokes respirations, where periods of hyperventilation alternate with periods of apnea, distinguishes it from other respiratory patterns. In contrast, Biot's respirations involve clusters of rapid, shallow breaths followed by periods of apnea but do not present the gradual changes seen in Cheyne-Stokes. Kussmaul respirations are characterized by deep, labored breathing typically associated with metabolic acidosis and are not shallow. Bradypnea refers to abnormally slow breathing, which is also not in line with the description of shallow breaths followed by apneic episodes. Thus, the features of Cheyne-Stokes respirations align perfectly with the question's criteria.