Acceptance of Low-Sodium Hospital Diet by Cardiac Patients: A Randomized Controlled Crossover Trial

Abstract Background Cardiovascular diseases are the major cause of hospitalization. Dietary salt restriction is indicated as part of clinical treatment, however, it is not always well accepted by the patients, resulting in low food intake and malnutrition. Objective To compare acceptance of a low-sodium diet cooked with salt with a standard low-sodium diet in cardiac inpatients. Methods A randomized controlled crossover trial in patients with low-sodium diet prescriptions (Clinical Trials NCT03481322). Patients were given a control standard low sodium diet (cooked without salt; salt [2g per meal] added by the patient at the time of consumption) on one day and on the next day patients were given the intervention diet - a low sodium diet cooked with salt (2 grams of salt, divided between preparations). Dietary acceptance was evaluated by weighing leftover food and calculating intake. A questionnaire was used to verify reasons that influenced acceptance. For data analysis, parametric data are presented as mean and standard deviation, Student's t test was used to compare means, with significance defined as p<0.05. Results Sixty-four patients were evaluated, with a mean age of 66 ± 11.3 years; 64% were male. There were no differences in percentage acceptance between the standard low-sodium diet and the low-sodium diet cooked with salt at lunch (p= 0.876) or at dinner (p= 0.255). Around 80% of what was offered at each meal was consumed by the patients, with no significant difference between groups. Conclusions The low-sodium diet cooked with salt was well accepted, but there was no difference when compared with the standard low-sodium diet, which also had adequate acceptance.

Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Children: a Meta-Analysis Update

Abstract Background Obesity and overweight in childhood can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease throughout live. Objectives This study provides an update of a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCT) published in 2014, to assess the effects of physical activity interventions on preventing cardiovascular risk factors in childhood. Methods This update combines data from the previous search with new data obtained from June 2013 to June 2020. Searches were performed on PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane CENTRAL. The RCTs enrolled used interventions with physical activity longer than six months in school children aged 6-12 years, and evaluated body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. Data analysis was performed using a random-effects model and a P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results A total of 28,603 articles were retrieved, and 17 RCTs (11,952 subjects) were included. Physical activity interventions were associated with reduction in SBP [−2.11mmHg (95%CI −3.67, −0.54), I243%], DBP [−2.08mmHg (95%CI −3.68, −0,49), I265%] and TG [-0.08mmol/L (95% CI -0.13, -0.03), I20%], and increase in TC [0.17mmol/L (95%CI 0.04, 0.30), I20%]. However, the interventions were not associated with reductions in BMI [−0.03 kg/m2 (95%CI −0.17, 0.10), I20%]. Conclusion This update confirms and reinforces the beneficial effects of physical activity intervention in reducing systolic and diastolic blood pressure and TG levels.

Implementation of a Telecardiology Service in a Health Unit in the City of Porto Alegre, Brazil: A Pilot Study

Abstract Background: The implementation of Telecardiology in primary care in the city of Porto Alegre, Brazil, is a viable and promising strategy. It would decrease the distance between patient and specialized professional services by reducing unnecessary referrals and improving the quality of primary care and satisfaction of patients and health professionals. Objective: To implement a Telecardiology service and assess user satisfaction using the CARDIOSATIS scale. Methods: This was a pilot study developed by a partnership between the Institute of Cardiology and the Telehealth Center of Rio Grande do Sul. The study was carried out at Eri Flores-Vila Vargas health center in the city of Porto Alegre, from May to October 2019, and included 21 patients attending the health center. The descriptive analysis of data was performed using the SPSS program (Statistical Package for the Sciences) version 23. Data normality was checked using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Statistical significance was set at 10%. Results: Mean age of participants was 43.8 ± 16.1 years. The most common risk factors in the sample were physical inactivity (81%) and smoking (43%). Most patients had normal electrocardiogram (ECG) readings. The time elapsed from the performance of the ECG test, transmission of the ECG traces to Telehealth, and return of the final ECG report to the health center was 0-7 days. The CARDIOSATIS scale revealed a high prevalence of "very satisfied" users for the general satisfaction domain, and only 14.3% of patients were dissatisfied with their health. Conclusions: Telecardiology reduced the distance between patient and the specialized professional, with a high level of patient and health professional satisfaction. Our study can serve as a basis for the implementation of a telecardiology network in the city of Porto Alegre in the future.

Increased Maximal Expiratory Pressure, Abdominal and Thoracic Respiratory Expansibility in Healthy Yoga Practitioners Compared to Healthy Sedentary Individuals

Abstract Background Increasing thoracic expansion is effective at reducing blood pressure in hypertensive subjects. Yoga prescribes many respiratory techniques with a growing number of practitioners. However, very little is known whether sedentary or yoga practitioners show measurable differences in their respiratory patterns. Objective This study aims to demonstrate differences between healthy sedentary individuals and healthy yoga practitioners regarding maximal respiratory pressures and thoracic and abdominal respiratory expansibility. Methods Maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (MIP and MEP, respectively) were evaluated by manovacuometry, while respiratory expansion was assessed by the cirtometry of abdominal (CA), thoracic xiphoidal (CTX), and thoracic axillary (CTA) circumferences at rest (end expiratory moment) and at full inspiration in healthy sedentary individuals (SED) and yoga practitioners (YOGA). A delta derived from rest and full inspiration measures (ΔCA, ΔCTX, and ΔCTA, respectively), followed by a percentage of each item (ΔCA/CA, ΔCTX/CTX, and ΔCTA/CTA) was then calculated. Groups were compared by means of an unpaired Student's t-test, with a significance level p < 0.05. Results All respiratory expansion measures were significantly higher in in the YOGA group. A significantly higher MEP (cmH2O) was also detected in yoga practitioners: SED 89.3 ± 19.3 and YOGA 114.7 ± 24.8 ( p = 0.007), along with decreased heart rate at rest (bpm): SED 84±6 and YOGA 74±15 ( p = 0.001). Conclusions Yoga practitioners have shown greater thoracic and abdominal expansion and increased MEP, when compared to healthy sedentary individuals, as well as significantly lower heart rates at rest and body mass index (BMI). However, whether or not these findings are related to respiratory patterns is uncertain.

Efeitos de Diferentes Tipos de Treinamento Físico na Função Endotelial em Pré-Hipertensos e Hipertensos: Uma Revisão Sistemática / Effects of Different Types of Exercise Training on Endothelial Function in Prehypertensive and Hypertensive Individuals: A Systematic Review

Resumo Fundamento: A hipertensão sustentada pode levar ao remodelamento vascular e lesão das células endoteliais, o que pode explicar a disfunção endotelial encontrada em hipertensos. O treinamento físico pode melhorar a saúde vascular em indivíduos com risco cardiovascular, mas pouco se sabe sobre seus efeitos em pré-hipertensos e hipertensos. Objetivo: Revisar a literatura mostrando evidências de alterações da função endotelial em resposta a diferentes modalidades de treinamento físico em pré-hipertensos e hipertensos. Métodos: Realizamos uma revisão sistemática de estudos nas bases de dados MEDLINE, Cochrane, LILACS, EMBASE e SciELO seguindo tanto as diretrizes PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyzes) quanto a estratégia PICO (paciente/população, intervenção, comparação e resultados). Os ensaios clínicos randomizados (ECRs) publicados até abril de 2019 foram selecionados e avaliados por quatro revisores independentes. A qualidade metodológica foi avaliada por meio da escala PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database). Resultados: Nossa busca rendeu 598 resumos, e 10 estudos foram elegíveis para revisão. Todos eles apresentaram qualidade metodológica aceitável pela escala PEDro. Dos 10 estudos, 7 envolveram treinamento aeróbico, 1 treinamento resistido isométrico e 2 treinamento aeróbico e treinamento resistido dinâmico separadamente. Sete estudos usaram dilatação fluxo-mediada (DFM) para avaliar a saúde vascular, e três usaram pletismografia. A maioria dos protocolos de treinamento envolveu indivíduos hipertensos e consistiu em exercícios de baixa e moderada intensidade. Conclusão: Nossa revisão sistemática mostrou que o treinamento aeróbico contínuo moderado é eficaz para melhorar a saúde vascular em indivíduos hipertensos. Em pré-hipertensos, o treinamento aeróbico intervalado vigoroso parece ser uma alternativa para benefícios à saúde vascular. O treinamento físico resistido isométrico ou dinâmico pode ser usado como alternativa secundária, mas ainda requer mais investigação.

Abstract Background: Sustained high blood pressure can lead to vascular remodeling and endothelial cell injury, which may explain the endothelial dysfunction found in hypertensive individuals. Exercise training can improve vascular health in individuals with cardiovascular risk, but little is known about its effects in prehypertensive and hypertensive individuals. Objective: To review the literature showing evidence of changes in endothelial function in response to different modalities of exercise training in prehypertensive and hypertensive individuals. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of studies in the MEDLINE, Cochrane, LILACS, EMBASE, and SciELO databases following both the PRISMA guidelines (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) and the PICO framework (patient/population, intervention, comparison and outcomes). Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published up to April 2019 were selected and assessed by four independent reviewers. The methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database) scale. Results: Our search yielded 598 abstracts, and 10 studies were eligible for review. All of them had acceptable methodological quality by PEDro scale. Of the 10 studies, 7 involved aerobic training, 1 isometric resistance training, and 2 aerobic training and dynamic resistance training separately. Seven studies used flow-mediated dilation (FMD) to assess the vascular health, and three used plethysmography. Most training protocols involved hypertensive individuals and consisted of low and moderate-intensity exercise. Conclusion: Our systematic review showed that moderate continuous aerobic training is effective to improve vascular health in hypertensive individuals. In prehypertensive individuals, vigorous interval aerobic training seems to be an alternative to determine vascular health benefits. Resistance exercise training, either isometric or dynamic, can be used as a secondary alternative, but still requires further investigation.

Benefícios do exercício físico na hipertensão arterial pulmonar associada à cardiopatia congênita não corrigida / Benefits of Physical exercise in pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with uncorrected congenital heart disease

Introdução: as cardiopatias congênitas são classificadas como um dos principais grupos para desenvolver hipertensão arterial pulmonar. O programa de exercício físico pode auxiliar no aumento da capacidade de vida diária, melhora clínica e funcional, minimizando as consequências deletérias da patologia. Relato do caso: reportamos um caso de um paciente do gênero masculino, 31 anos, com diagnóstico clínico de hipertensão arterial pulmonar grave em decorrência da dupla via de saída do ventrículo direito com comunicação interventricular, sem intervenção cirúrgica. Após ser encaminhado ao programa de Reabilitação Cardiopulmonar e Metabólica em um centro de referência em cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul, foram realizadas avaliações clínicas e, também, da capacidade funcional pelo teste de caminhada de 6 minutos, da força muscular e resistência periférica, pelo teste Sentar-Levantar, e da força muscular respiratória, pelo exame de manovacuometria. Os valores apresentavam-se abaixo do valor previsto. O programa de exercício proposto foi realizado durante 30 sessões constando de exercícios aeróbicos com duração de 33 minutos, combinados ao treino de fortalecimento dos grandes grupos musculares. Conclusão: após o término do programa observou-se um acréscimo de 83 metros no teste de caminhada de 6 minutos e um aumento da força muscular respiratória, assim como, redução redução nos parâmetros da escala de Borg.

Introduction: congenital heart disease is classified as one of the main groups to develop pulmonary arterial hypertension. The exercise program can help to improve daily living, capacity, clinical and functional improvement, minimizing the deleterious consequences of the disease. Case report: we report a case of a 31-year-old male patient with a clinical diagnosis of severe pulmonary arterial hypertension due to the right ventricular double outflow tract with interventricular communication without surgical intervention. After being referred to the Cardiopulmonary and Metabolic Rehabilitation program at a cardiology reference center in Rio Grande do Sul, clinical evaluation was performed, as well as functional capacity by the 6-minute walk test, muscle strength and peripheral resistance by the sitting-rising test, and respiratory muscle strength by the manovacuometry exam. The values were below the predicted value. The proposed exercise program was performed during 30 sessions consisting of aerobic exercises lasting 33 minutes, added strength training of largemuscle groups. Conclusion: after the program there was an increase of 83 meters in the 6-minute walk test and an increase in respiratory muscle strength, as well as a reduction in Borg scale parameters.

Utilização da pressão positiva contínua nas vias aéreas na insuficiência cardíaca e apneia obstrutiva do sono. Revisão sistemática de ensaios clínicos / Utilization of continuous positive airway pressure in heart failure and obstructive sleep apnea. Systematic review of clinical trials

Introdução. Pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca (IC) portadores de apneia obstrutiva do sono (AOS) tem taxas de morbi mortalidade elevados e o tratamento com a pressão positiva contínua nas vias aéreas (CPAP) pode reduzir estes riscos. Objetivo geral. Realizar uma revisão sistemática de ensaios clínicos randomizados sobre os efeitos da terapia por CPAP em pacientes com IC portadores de AOS. Fontes de informação. Pesquisamos as bases de dados eletrônicas PubMed, Embase, Web of Science e Lilacs nos últimos 10 anos, sem limites de linguagem. Critérios de elegibilidade. Ensaios clínicos randomizados, estudos de pacientes com IC apresentando fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo (FEVE) reduzida (<50%) portadores de apneia obstrutiva do sono e que fossem tratados com CPAP. Resultados. A FEVE aumentou consideravelmente nos grupos que receberam a terapia por CPAP (média basal: 30,6%; média pós CPAP: 36,7%), assim como a saturação de oxigênio (SaO2) (média basal: 94%; média pós CPAP: 95,3%) e houve redução no índice de apneia/hipopneia (média basal: 39,6; média pós CPAP: 12,3). Conclusões. Nossa revisão sistemática de ensaios clínicos randomizados confirma que a terapia por CPAP em pacientes com IC portadores de AOS melhora variáveis preditoras de morbi mortalidade.

Comparison of Cardiac and Vascular Parameters in Powerlifters and Long-Distance Runners: Comparative Cross-Sectional Study / Comparação de Parâmetros Cardíacos e Vasculares em Powerlifters e Corredores de Longa Distância: Um Estudo Transversal Comparativo

Abstract Background: Cardiac remodeling is a specific response to exercise training and time exposure. We hypothesized that athletes engaging for long periods in high-intensity strength training show heart and/or vascular damage. Objective: To compare cardiac characteristics (structure and function) and vascular function (flow-mediated dilation [FMD] and peripheral vascular resistance [PVR]) in powerlifters and long-distance runners. Methods: We evaluated 40 high-performance athletes (powerlifters [PG], n = 16; runners [RG], n = 24) and assessed heart structure and function (echocardiography), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP/DBP), FMD, PVR, maximum force (squat, bench press, and deadlift), and maximal oxygen uptake (spirometry). A Student's t Test for independent samples and Pearson's linear correlation were used (p < 0.05). Results: PG showed higher SBP/DBP (p < 0.001); greater interventricular septum thickness (p < 0.001), posterior wall thickness (p < 0.001) and LV mass (p < 0.001). After adjusting LV mass by body surface area (BSA), no difference was observed. As for diastolic function, LV diastolic volume, wave E, wave e', and E/e' ratio were similar for both groups. However, LA volume (p = 0.016) and BSA-adjusted LA volume were lower in PG (p < 0.001). Systolic function (end-systolic volume and ejection fraction), and FMD were similar in both groups. However, higher PVR in PG was observed (p = 0.014). We found a correlation between the main cardiovascular changes and total weight lifted in PG. Conclusions: Cardiovascular adaptations are dependent on training modality and the borderline structural cardiac changes are not accompanied by impaired function in powerlifters. However, a mild increase in blood pressure seems to be related to PVR rather than endothelial function.

Resumo Fundamento: Remodelamento cardíaco é uma resposta específica ao tempo e modalidade de treinamento. Nós hipotetizamos que atletas de treinamento de força de alta intensidade, por longo tempo, mostram dano à estrutura cardíaca e/ou vascular. Objetivo: Comparar as características cardíacas (estrutura e funcionalidade) e função vascular (dilatação fluxo-mediada, FMD e resistência vascular periférica, PVR) em powerlifters e corredores. Métodos: Nós avaliamos 40 atletas de alto-desempenho (powerlifters [PG], n = 16; corredores [RG], n = 24). Mensuramos estrutura e funcionalidade cardíaca (ecocardiografia), pressão arterial (SBP/DBP), FMD, PVR, força máxima (agachamento, supino e levantamento terra) e consumo máximo de oxigênio (ergoespirometria). Foi utilizado teste T de Student e correlação linear de Pearson (p < 0,05). Resultados: PG mostrou maior SBP/DBP (p < 0,001), espessura de septo interventricular (p < 0,001), parede posterior (p < 0,001) e massa do VE (p < 0,001); após ajuste pela superfície corporal (BSA), não houve diferença na massa do VE. O volume do VE, onda E, onda e', e a razão E/e' foram similares entre os grupos. O volume do AE (p = 0,016), mesmo ajustado pela BSA (p < 0,001) foi menor no PG. A função sistólica (volume sistólico final e fração de ejeção) e FMD foram similares nos grupos. Contudo, foi observada maior PVR no PG (p = 0,014). Houve uma correlação direta entre as alterações cardíacas e a carga total levantada no PG. Conclusões: As adaptações cardiovasculares são dependentes da modalidade e os valores encontrados na estrutura do coração não são acompanhados por prejuízo na funcionalidade. Entretanto, um leve aumento na pressão arterial pode estar associado com maior PVR e não com a função endotelial.

Cardiac parameters and endothelial function in a strength athlete: a case report

We aimed to discuss a case of strength training athlete who competes in international competitions regarding cardiac (dimension and function), vascular (endothelium and vascular resistance), hemodynamic (blood pressure), given limited evidence supporting these cardiovascular adaptations as well as concerning endothelial function in long-term high-intensity strength training. Methods: We assessed heart structure and function (echocardiography); systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP); endothelium-dependent vasodilation (flow-mediated dilation, FMD); maximum force tested in the squat, bench press, and deadlift; and maximum oxygen consumption (spirometry). Results: powerlifter's cardiac dimensions (interventricular septum 13 mm; posterior wall thickness 12 mm; LV diastolic diameter 57 mm; left ventricle mass 383 g; LV mass adjusted by body surface area 151.4 g/m2) are above the proposed cutoff values beyond which pathology may be considered. Moreover, cardiovascular function systolic (ejection fraction by Simpson's rule, 71%) is preserved and FMD measure is fairly close and above normal; however, a mild increase in systolic and diastolic blood pressure was observed (130/89 mmHg, respectively). Conclusion: Cardiac remodeling cannot be viewed as either pathological or harmful to the cardiovascular system. Furthermore, we showed an improvement in endothelial function.(AU)

Marcadores de Inflamação, Microalbuminúria e Controle de Pressão Arterial em Cuidados de Saúde Primários / Inflammation Markers, Microalbuminuria and Blood Pressure Control in Primary Health Care

Fundamento: A hipertensão arterial sistêmica (HAS) é uma causa importante de morbidade e mortalidade cardiovascular. Apesar da eficácia do tratamento, um alto número de pacientes não obtém controle de pressão arterial (PA), um fato que implica a necessidade de investigar o papel de outros fatores adicionais, como marcadores de inflamação e microalbuminúria, especialmente em ambientes de saúde. Objetivos: Avaliar a associação entre os níveis de fibrinogênio sérico, Proteína C-reativa ultrassensível (PCR) e microalbuminúria, com medidas de pressão arterial (PA) avaliadas através de monitorização ambulatorial da pressão arterial (MAPA) em pacientes hipertensos, em ambiente de cuidados de saúde primários. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo transversal com pacientes hipertensos que foram atendidos em centros de cuidados de saúde primários. Uma avaliação de PA foi efetuada pelo médico de cuidados primários, e este procedimento foi seguido por um teste de referência de 24 horas (MAPA), realizado por um profissional independente. Adicionalmente, a coleta de sangue periférico foi realizada para análise futura de marcadores bioquímicos. Resultados: 143 pacientes foram incluídos. Havia uma tendência para associação entre a variável independente (PA alterada por MAPA de 24 horas) e variável dependente (PCR), havia uma associação entre os valores > 3 mg/dL e MAPA alterada de 24 horas. A razão de prevalência (RP) foi de 1,36 (CI 95% 0,90 ­ 2,06); p=0,18. A respeito dos achados de microalbuminúria e fibrinogênio, foi observada RP 1,03 (CI 95% 0,41 ­ 2,57); p=1 e RP 1,19 (CI 95% 0,96 ­ 1,46); p=0,019, respectivamente, e ambas não foram significantes para PA alterada por MAPA de 24 horas. Conclusões: Há uma tendência para a associação entre PCR e a PA avaliada através da MAPA de 24 horas no contexto dos cuidados primários

Background: Systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) is an important cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. In spite of the effectiveness of the treatment, a high number of patients do not obtain blood pressure (BP) control, a fact that implies the need for investigating the role of other additional factors, such as inflammation markers and microalbuminuria, especially in health care environments. Objectives: To evaluate the association between serum fibrinogen levels, ultra-sensitive C-reactive protein (CRP) and microalbuminuria, with blood pressure (BP) averages evaluated by 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) in hypertensive patients in primary health care setting.Methods: A cross-sectional study with hypertensive patients who were seen in primary health care centers was performed.A BP evaluation was carried out by the primary care doctor, and this procedure was followed by a reference test 24-hour ABPM, performed by an independent professional. Moreover, the peripheral blood collect was performed for future biochemical markers analysis. Results: 143 patients were included. There was a trend for association between the independent variable (altered BP by 24-hour ABPM) and the dependent variable (CRP), there was an association between the values > 3 mg/dL and altered 24-hour ABPM. The prevalence ratio (PR) was of 1.36 (CI 95% 0.90 ­ 2.06); p=0.18. Regarding microalbuminuria and fibrinogen findings, a 1.03 (CI 95% 0.41 ­ 2.57) PR was seen; p=1 and 1.19 (CI 95% 0.96 ­ 1.46) PR; p=0.019, respectively, and both were not significant for altered BP by 24-hour ABPM. Conclusions: It is a trend for association between CRP with BP evaluated by 24-hour ABPM in the primary care setting

Terapia gênica com fator de crescimento endotelial vascular 165 para pacientes com angina refratária: mobilização de células progenitoras endoteliais / VEGF 165 gene therapy for patients with refractory angina: mobilization of endothelial progenitor cells

FUNDAMENTO: O fator de crescimento endotelial vascular (VEGF - vascular endothelial growth factor) induz a mobilização de células progenitoras endoteliais (CPEs) com capacidade de proliferação e diferenciação em células endoteliais, contribuindo, dessa forma, para o processo angiogênico. OBJETIVO: Buscamos avaliar o comportamento de CPEs em pacientes com doença cardíaca isquêmica e angina refratária que receberam injeções intramiocardicas de 2000 µg de VEGF165 como terapia única. MÉTODOS: O estudo foi uma subanálise de um ensaio clínico. Pacientes com doença cardíaca isquêmica avançada e angina refratária foram avaliados para inclusão no estudo. Os critérios de inclusão foram: sinais e sintomas de angina e/ou insuficiência cardíaca apesar de tratamento medicamentoso máximo e área de isquemia miocárdica de, no mínimo, 5% conforme avaliado por uma tomografia computadorizada por emissão de fóton único (TCEFU). Os critérios de exclusão foram: idade > 65 anos, fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo < 25% e cancer diagnosticado. Os pacientes cujos níveis de CPE foram avaliados foram incluídos. A intervenção consistiu na administração de 2000 µg de VEGF 165 de plasmídeo injetado no miocárdio isquêmico. A frequência de células CD34+/KDR+ foi analisada por citometria de fluxo antes e 3, 9, e 27 dias após a intervenção. RESULTADOS: Um total de 9 pacientes foram incluídos, 8 homens, média de idade de 59,4 anos, fração de ejeção ventricular esquerda de 59,3%, e classe de angina predominante III. Observou-se um aumento significativo dos níveis de CPEs no terceiro dia após a intervenção. Todavia, 9 e 27 dias após a intervenção, os níveis de CPEs foram similares aos basais. CONCLUSÃO: Identificamos uma mobilização transitória de CPE, com pico no terceiro dia após a intervenção com VEGF 165 em pacientes com angina refratária. Todavia, os níveis de CPEs apresentaram-se semelhantes aos basais 9 e 27 dias após a intervenção.

BACKGROUND: Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) induces mobilization of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) with the capacity for proliferation and differentiation into mature endothelial cells, thus contributing to the angiogenic process. OBJECTIVE: We sought to assess the behavior of EPCs in patients with ischemic heart disease and refractory angina who received an intramyocardial injections of 2000 µg of VEGF 165 as the sole therapy. METHODS: The study was a subanalysis of a clinical trial. Patients with advanced ischemic heart disease and refractory angina were assessed for eligibility. Inclusion criteria were as follows: signs and symptoms of angina and/or heart failure despite maximum medical treatment and a myocardial ischemic area of at least 5% as assessed by single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Exclusion criteria were as follows: age > 65 years, left ventricular ejection fraction < 25%, and a diagnosis of cancer. Patients whose EPC levels were assessed were included. The intervention was 2000 µg of VEGF 165 plasmid injected into the ischemic myocardium. The frequency of CD34+/KDR+ cells was analyzed by flow cytometry before and 3, 9, and 27 days after the intervention. RESULTS: A total of 9 patients were included, 8 males, mean age 59.4 years, mean left ventricular ejection fraction of 59.3% and predominant class III angina. The number of EPCs on day 3 was significantly higher than that at baseline (p = 0.03); however, that on days 9 and 27 was comparable to that at baseline. CONCLUSION: We identified a transient mobilization of EPCs, which peaked on the 3th day after VEGF 165 gene therapy in patients with refractory angina and returned to near baseline levels on days 9 and 27.

Electrical stimulation and electromagnetic field use in patients with diabetic neuropathy: systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND: Painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus, and pharmacological therapies are ineffective in many patients. Therefore, other treatment modalities should be considered, including electrical stimulation and electromagnetic fields. OBJECTIVES: The research objective was to evaluate the effect of treatment with electrical stimulation and electromagnetic fields on pain and sensitivity in patients with painful diabetic neuropathy compared with placebo or another intervention. METHOD: We searched the following electronic databases (from inception to April 2012): MEDLINE (accessed by PubMed), LILACS, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), EMBASE and Cochrane CENTRAL. We included randomized trials that compared electrical stimulation or electromagnetic fields with control groups in which the objective was to assess pain and sensitivity in patients with PDN. Two reviewers independently extracted the data. A random-effects model was used for the main analysis. RESULTS: The search retrieved 1336 articles, of which 12 studies were included. Reductions in the mean pain score were significantly greater in the TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) group than in the placebo group [-0.44 (95% CI: -0.79 to -0.09; I2: 0%)]. There was no improvement in pain relief when electromagnetic fields were compared with the control group [-0.69 (95% CI: -1.86 to 0.48; I2: 63%)]. CONCLUSIONS: We found that TENS improved pain relief in patients with diabetic neuropathy, while no such improvement was observed with the use of electromagnetic field treatment. Due to the methodological differences between the studies, a meta-analysis for the outcome of sensitivity could not be performed. .

Associação entre função endotelial e a modulação autonômica em pacientes com doença de chagas / Association between endothelial function and autonomic modulation in patients with chagas disease

FUNDAMENTO: Em condição homeostática, o Sistema Nervoso Autônomo (SNA), pela liberação de neurotransmissores vasoconstritores, e o endotélio, pela liberação de substâncias vasodilatadoras, atuam em sintonia para manter o tônus vascular. Todavia, a associação entre esses dois sistemas em portadores da doença de Chagas na forma indeterminada (DChI) ainda não foi estudada. OBJETIVO: Verificar a associação entre parâmetros referentes à modulação autonômica e à função endotelial em portadores da DChI. MÉTODOS: Treze pacientes com DChI (59,2 ± 11,23 anos) sem fatores de risco para doença cardiovascular foram avaliados para modulação autonômica pelo método oscilométrico da pressão arterial (Finapress) e a análise dos registros mediante a técnica da Variabilidade da Frequência Cardíaca (VFC) no domínio da frequência. A função endotelial foi avaliada pelo método de dilatação mediada pelo fluxo da artéria braquial (DMF), usando imagens de ultrassom de alta resolução. RESULTADOS: Na posição em decúbito dorsal foi observada correlação entre os componentes espectrais de alta (HF) (r = 0,78 p = 0,007) e baixa (LF) frequências normalizadas (r = 0,68 p = 0,01), bem como com o balanço simpatovagal (LF/HF) (r= -0,78 p = 0,004) com a DMF. CONCLUSÃO: Nosso estudo aponta a existência de uma relação entre as alterações na modulação autonômica e na função endotelial em pacientes com Doença de Chagas na forma indeterminada.

BACKGROUND: Under homeostatic condition, the autonomic nervous system (ANS), through the release of vasoconstrictor neurotransmitters, and the endothelium, through the release of vasodilating substances, interact to maintain blood vessel tone. However, the association between those two systems in patients with Chagas disease in its indeterminate phase (IChD) has not been studied. OBJECTIVE: To assess the association between autonomic modulation parameters and endothelial function in patients with IChD. METHODS: Thirteen patients with IChD (59.2 ± 11.23 years) and no risk factors for cardiovascular disease were assessed for autonomic modulation by using the blood pressure oscillometric method (Finapress) and the heart rate variability technique (HRV) in the frequency domain. Endothelial function was assessed by use of the brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD) method with high-resolution ultrasound images. RESULTS: In the dorsal decubitus position, correlation of FMD was observed with normalized high-frequency (r = 0.78; p = 0.007) and low-frequency spectral components (r = 0.68; p = 0.01), as well as with sympathovagal balance (r = -0.78; p = 0.004). CONCLUSIONS: Our study indicates the existence of a relationship between the changes in autonomic modulation and endothelial function in patients with IChD.

Terapia gênica para cardiopatia isquêmica: revisão de ensaios clínicos / Gene therapy for ischemic heart disease: review of clinical trials

Cardiopatia isquêmica grave com angina refratária a formas convencionais de tratamento apresenta-se em uma crescente incidência. Para tratar angina refratária, terapias alternativas na tentativa de redução da isquemia miocárdica e alívio de sintomas têm sido estudadas. Neste contexto, a terapia gênica representa uma opção, pela possibilidade de induzir angiogênese, estabelecer circulação colateral e reperfundir miocárdio isquêmico. Diversos ensaios clínicos têm sido conduzidos e, com exceção de casos isolados e específicos de efeitos adversos, há indicação de segurança, viabilidade e potencial eficácia da terapia. O benefício clínico não está bem definido. Neste artigo, revisamos os ensaios clínicos que utilizaram terapia gênica para tratamento de pacientes cardiopatas isquêmicos. A abordagem inclui: (1) isquemia miocárdica e angiogênese, sobre os aspectos fisiopatológicos envolvidos; (2) fatores de crescimento, tratando sobre aspectos específicos e justificando a utilização em pacientes cardiopatas isquêmicos sem opções pela terapêutica convencional; (3) ensaios clínicos controlados, onde é apresentado um resumo dos principais estudos envolvendo terapia gênica para tratamento da cardiopatia isquêmica grave; (4) nossa experiência, especialmente sobre resultados preliminares do primeiro ensaio clínico de terapia gênica do Brasil e (5) perspectivas.

Severe ischemic heart disease with refractory angina, occurs in increasing incidence. Alternative forms of treatment, in an attempt to reduce myocardial ischemia and relief of symptoms has been studied. In this context, gene therapy is an option, for the possibility of inducing angiogenesis, establish collateral circulation and reperfuse ischemic myocardium. Several clinical trials have been conducted and, except for specific cases of adverse effects, there is indication of safety, feasibility and potential effectiveness of therapy. The clinical benefit, however, is not yet well established. In this article we review the clinical trials of gene therapy for patients with ischemic heart disease. The approach includes: (1) myocardial ischemia and angiogenesis on the pathophysiological aspects involved, (2) growth factors, dealing with specific aspects and justifying the use in cardiac patients with no option for conventional therapy, (3) controlled clinical trials, where a summary of the main studies involving gene therapy for severe ischemic heart disease is presented, (4) our experience, especially on preliminary results of the first gene therapy clinical trial in Brazil and (5) future prospects.

Functional electrical stimulation training on functional capacity and blood pressure variability in a centenarian woman: case study / Treinamento com estimulação elétrica funcional sobre a capacidade funcional e a variabilidade da pressão arterial em uma idosa centenária: estudo de caso

BACKGROUND: Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is a rehabilitation method that can revert alterations provoked by aging, such as reductions in functional capacity and modifications on blood pressure variability (BPV). OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the training effects of FES on functional capacity and BPV in a centenarian woman. METHODS: A 101-year-old woman without previous disease underwent FES training for 12 weeks, with three 40 min sessions/week. FES was applied at a frequency of 20 Hz with a 0.5 ms pulse, 5 s contraction time, 10 s relaxation time, the maximum tolerable intensity and with progressive overload. Functional capacity was assessed with a six-minute walk test (6MWT) and proximal lower limb strength was assessed with a sit-and-stand test (STST). BPV was measured by continuous recording of pulse pressure and calculated by spectral analysis. All variables were measured before and after FES training. RESULTS: After training there was a 70 percent increase in distance walked in the 6MWT, a 300 percent increase in the number of STST repetitions, an 8 mmHg reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP) and a 4 mmHg reduction in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and mean blood pressure (MBP). Reductions in SBP (11.8 mmHg²), DBP (2.3 mmHg²) and MBP (6.0 mmHg²) variability were also observed. CONCLUSIONS: Three months of FES training improved functional capacity and BPV in a centenarian woman.

CONTEXTUALIZAÇÃO: A estimulação elétrica funcional (EEF) é uma forma de reabilitação que pode reverter alterações provocadas pelo envelhecimento, como diminuição da capacidade funcional e modificações na variabilidade da pressão arterial (VPA). OBJETIVOS: Avaliar os efeitos do treinamento com EEF sobre a capacidade funcional e a VPA em uma idosa centenária. MÉTODOS: Paciente do sexo feminino, 101 anos e sem patologia prévia. O treinamento com EEF foi realizado durante 12 semanas, sendo três sessões/semana e tempo máximo de aplicação de 40 min/sessão. A EEF foi aplicada com frequência de 20 Hz, largura de pulso de 0,5 ms, tempo de contração de 5 s, tempo de repouso de 10 s, intensidade máxima tolerável e aplicação de sobrecarga progressiva. A capacidade funcional foi avaliada por meio do teste de caminhada de 6 minutos (TC6) e do teste de sentar e levantar (TSL). A VPA foi mensurada pelo registro contínuo da pressão de pulso e calculada pela análise espectral. Todas as variáveis foram mensuradas pré e pós-treinamento. RESULTADOS: Após treinamento, houve um aumento de 70 por cento na distância percorrida no TC6 e aumento de 300 por cento no número de repetições no TSL. Observou-se redução de 8 mmHg na pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) e de 4 mmHg na pressão arterial diastólica (PAD) e na pressão arterial média (PAM), havendo ainda uma redução na variabilidade da PAS (11,8 mmHg²), da PAD (2,3 mmHg²) e da PAM (6,0 mmHg²). CONCLUSÕES: O treinamento com EEF durante três meses proporcionou aumento da capacidade funcional e melhora da VPA em uma idosa centenária.