A ingestão do anti-inflamatório não esteroide naproxeno afeta parâmetros neuromusculares e metabólicos? / Does the ingestion of naproxen affect neuromuscular and metabolic parameters?

O naproxeno, assim como outros anti-inflamatórios não esteroides (AINEs), está entre os medicamentos mais prescritos no mundo. O objetivo do presente estudo é analisar o efeito da ingestão de naproxeno em parâmetros neuromusculares e determinar seu efeito no dano muscular por meio do uso do marcador lactato. Metodologicamente, foi conduzido um estudo cruzado randomizado, duplo-cego e controlado por placebo em 11 homens treinados em resistência, que realizaram uma sessão de treinamento de força após ingerir 500 mg de naproxeno e outra sessão de treinamento após ingerir um placebo. Os participantes realizaram três séries de supino horizontal com uma carga de 90% da repetição máxima (1RM) até a falha concêntrica. As variáveis de resultado incluíram número de repetições, carga de trabalho e lactato. Os resultados mostraram que há uma correlação positiva e moderada entre as variáveis somatório de repetições e carga total e entre as variáveis lactato e carga total, no grupo naproxeno. No grupo placebo, a correlação positiva e moderada deu-se entre somatório de repetições e carga total. Na análise magnitude baseada nas interferências, as variáveis se mostraram possíveis para uma probabilidade positiva ou trivial e improvável para uma probabilidade negativa. Concluiu-se no presente estudo que o uso do naproxeno como recurso ergogênico no treinamento de força reduz a percepção de fadiga, mas não tem efeito direto no dano muscular, analisado a partir do marcador lactato, logo não interfere de maneira significativa nos parâmetros neuromusculares analisados.

Naproxen, as other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), features among the most widely prescribed drugs in the world. The aim of this study is to analyze the effect of naproxen intake on neuromuscular parameters and determine its effect on muscle damage through the use of the lactate marker. In terms of methodology, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study was conducted on 11 resistance-trained men who underwent a strength training session after taking 500 mg of naproxen and another training session after taking a placebo. The participants performed three sets of horizontal bench presses with a load of 90% maximum repetition (1RM) until concentric failure. Result variables included number of repetitions, workload and lactate. The results showed that there is a positive and moderate correlation between the sum of repetition and total load variables and between lactate and total load variables in the naproxen group. In the placebo group, a positive and moderate correlation was observed between sum of repetitions and total load. In the magnitude analysis, based on the interferences, the variables were shown to be possible for a positive or trivial probability and unlikely for a negative probability. It was concluded that the use of naproxen as an ergogenic resource in strength training reduces the perception of fatigue but has no direct effect on muscle damage when analyzed from the lactate marker, therefore it does not significantly interfere in the analyzed neuromuscular parameters.

Smoking history: relationships with inflammatory markers, metabolic markers, body composition, muscle strength, and cardiopulmonary capacity in current smokers / Relação da carga tabágica com marcadores inflamatórios, marcadores metabólicos, composição corporal, força muscular e capacidade cardiorrespiratória em tabagistas

ABSTRACT Objective: To determine the relationships that smoking history has with inflammatory markers, metabolic markers, body composition, muscle strength, and cardiopulmonary capacity in current smokers. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study involving 65 smokers (age range: 18-60 years). On three non-consecutive days, each participant was evaluated in terms of smoking history, pre-existing comorbidities, lung function (by spirometry), peripheral muscle strength (by dynamometry), body composition (by bioelectrical impedance analysis), levels of metabolic/inflammatory markers, and maximum cardiopulmonary capacity (by treadmill exercise test). We evaluated the relationships that smoking history has with inflammatory markers, metabolic markers, body composition, muscle strength, and cardiopulmonary capacity, using logarithmic transformation of the data and calculating Pearson's correlation coefficient and for partial correlations adjusted for age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and comorbidities. To identify the influence of smoking history on pre-existing comorbidities, we used a logistic regression model adjusted for age, BMI, and duration of smoking. Results: Smoking history correlated significantly, albeit weakly, with triglyceride level (r = 0.317; p = 0.005), monocyte count (r = 0.308; p = 0.013), and waist circumference (r = 0.299; p = 0.017). However, those correlations did not retain their significance in the adjusted analysis. In the logistic regression model, smoking more than 20 cigarettes/day correlated significantly with the presence of metabolic diseases (OR = 0.31; 95% CI: 1.009-1.701; p = 0.043). Conclusions: In this sample of smokers, smoking history correlated positively with the triglyceride level, the monocyte count, and waist circumference. The prevalence of metabolic disease was highest in those who smoked more than 20 cigarettes/day.

RESUMO Objetivo: Verificar a relação da carga tabágica com marcadores inflamatórios, marcadores metabólicos, composição corporal, força muscular e capacidade cardiorrespiratória em tabagistas. Métodos: Estudo transversal com 65 tabagistas de ambos os sexos (idade: 18-60 anos). Todos os participantes foram avaliados em três dias não consecutivos quanto ao histórico de tabagismo, comorbidades pré-existentes, função pulmonar (espirometria), força muscular periférica (dinamometria), composição corporal (bioimpedância), dosagem de marcadores metabólicos e inflamatórios e teste cardiopulmonar em esteira para avaliar a capacidade cardiorrespiratória máxima. Avaliou-se a relação da carga tabágica com marcadores inflamatórios, marcadores metabólicos, composição corporal, força muscular e capacidade cardiorrespiratória com transformação logarítmica através da correlação de Pearson e correlações parciais ajustadas para idade, sexo, índice de massa corpórea (IMC) e comorbidades. A regressão logística com modelo ajustado para idade, IMC e tempo de tabagismo foi utilizada para identificar a influência do histórico de tabagismo sobre as comorbidades pré-existentes. Resultados: Observaram-se correlações positivas fracas somente para dados não ajustados da carga tabágica com nível de triacilglicerol (r = 0,317; p = 0,005), contagem de monócitos (r = 0,308; p = 0,013) e circunferência abdominal (r = 0,299; p = 0,017). No modelo de regressão logística, fumar mais de 20 cigarros/dia correlacionou-se significativamente com a presença de doenças metabólicas (OR = 0,31; IC95%: 1,009-1,701; p = 0,043). Conclusões: Nesta amostra de tabagistas, a carga tabágica se correlacionou positivamente com nível de triacilglicerol, contagem de monócitos e circunferência abdominal. A prevalência de doenças metabólicas foi maior em tabagistas que fumam mais de 20 cigarros/dia.

Avaliação do Estado Nutricional e Capacidade Funcional de Pacientes Oncológicos em Quimioterapia de Caxias do Sul ­ RS / Evaluation of Nutritional Status and Functional Capacity in Oncologic Patients undergoing Chemotherapy in Caxias do Sul ­ RS / Evaluación del Estado Nutricional y Capacidad Funcional en Pacientes Oncológicos en Quimioterapia de Caxias do Sul ­ RS

Introdução: Câncer é o nome dado a um conjunto de doenças que têm em comum o crescimento desordenado de células. O estado nutricional debilitado é frequente em pacientes oncológicos e interfere de forma negativa nas habilidades de vida diárias do paciente. Objetivo : Avaliar o estado nutricional e a capacidade funcional de pacientes oncológicos em quimioterapia. Método: Estudo epidemiológico observacional com delineamento transversal, composto por uma amostra obtida por conveniência, de 213 indivíduos em tratamento quimioterápico ambulatorial. Os entrevistados responderam à avaliação subjetiva global produzida pelo paciente (ASG-PPP); a capacidade funcional foi verificada por meio da força de preensão palmar (FPP) e da escala de performance status Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG). Resultados: Foram avaliados 213 pacientes, 56,3% idosos e 54,0% do sexo feminino. Com exceção dos indivíduos com neoplasia de cabeça e pescoço, observou-se maior prevalência de bem nutridos conforme a ASG-PPP (p=0,004); em relação ao índice de massa corporal (IMC), exceto para indivíduos com câncer de mama, a maior prevalência foi de eutrofia (p=0,010). Os indivíduos com FPP adequada (54,9%) apresentaram-se bem nutridos conforme a ASG (91,5%) (p≤0,0001) e sobrepeso de acordo com o IMC (46,2%) (p=0,010). Ainda, os indivíduos totalmente ativos (69,0%) eram bem nutridos conforme a ASG (89,8%) (p≤0,0001) e os eutróficos segundo o IMC (44,2%) (p=0,003), demonstrando diferença significativa na avaliação do estado nutricional com a capacidade funcional. Conclusão: O estudo demonstrou que a maioria dos pacientes oncológicos em quimioterapia tinham satisfatório estado nutricional, adequada força muscular e eram totalmente ativos.

Introduction: Cancer is the name given to a set of diseases that have in common the disorderly growth of cells. Impaired nutritional status is frequent in oncologic patients and negatively interferes in the patient's daily life abilities. Objective:To evaluate the nutritional status and functional capacity of oncologic patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment. Method: Cross-sectional design, observational epidemiological study, with a sample obtained by convenience from 213 individuals undergoing outpatient chemotherapy treatment. The interviewees answered to the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA); functional ability was verified using handgrip strength (HGS) (hand dynamometry) and through the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) scale for performance scale. Results: 213 patients were evaluated, 56.3%, elderly and 54.0%, females. Excluding head and neck neoplasms, there was a higher prevalence of well-nourished individuals according to PG-SGA (p=0.004); in relation to the body mass index (BMI), except for individuals with breast cancer, the highest prevalence was eutrophy (p=0.010). Individuals with adequate HGS (54.9%) were well nourished according to the SGA (91.5%) (p≤0.0001) and overweight according to the BMI (46.2%) (p=0.010). Still, fully active individuals (69.0%), were well nourished according to SGA (89.8%) (p≤0.0001) and eutrophic according to BMI (44.2%) (p=0.003), showing a significant difference in the assessment of nutritional status with functional capacity. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that the majority of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy had satisfactory nutritional status, adequate muscle strength and were fully active.

Introducción: Cáncer es el nombre dado a un conjunto de enfermedad que tienen en común el crecimiento celular desordenado. El estado nutricional débil es frecuente en pacientes oncológicos e interfiere negativamente con las habilidades de la vida diaria del paciente. Objetivo: Evaluar el estado nutricional y capacidad funcional de los pacientes oncológicos en quimioterapia. Método: Estudio epidemiológico observacional con delineamiento transversal, compuesto por muestra obtenida por conveniencia, 213 individuos en tratamiento ambulatorial. Los entrevistados respondieron a la evaluación subjetiva global producida por el paciente (ESG-PPP); la capacidad funcional se verificó utilizando la fuerza de la empuñadura (FPP) y a través de la escala de rendimiento del Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG). Resultados: Se evaluaron 213 pacientes, 56,3%ancianos y 54,0% mujeres. Con excepción de las neoplasias de cabeza y cuello, hubo una mayor prevalencia de individuos bien nutridos según el ESG-PPP (p=0,004); en relación con el índice de masa corporal (IMC), a excepción de las personas con cáncer de mama, la prevalencia más alta fue la eutrofia (p=0,010). Las personas con FPP adecuada (54.9%) estaban bien nutridas según la ESG (91,5%) (p≤0,0001) y con sobrepeso con el IMC (46,2%) (p=0,010). Aun así, los individuos completamente activos (69,0%) estaban bien nutridos según ESG (89,8%) (p≤0,0001) y eutróficos según el IMC (44,2%) (p=0,003), mostrando una diferencia significativa en la evaluación del diagnóstico nutricional con capacidad funcional. Conclusión: El estudio demostró que la mayoría de los pacientes con cáncer que reciben quimioterapia con un estado nutricional satisfactorio, una fuerza muscular adecuada y completamente activa.

Concentración de bupivacaína y preservación de fuerza de cuádriceps en bloqueo femoral para artroplastía total de rodilla / Bupivacaine concentration and quadriceps strength preservation in femoral nerve block for total

INTRODUCTION: The commonly used concentrations of local anesthetics (LA) for femoral nerve block (FNB) cause a significant decrease in the quadriceps strength (QS), limiting physiotherapy and determining a risk factor for patient's falls. The use of more dilute solutions could determine the preservation of motor function without impairing analgesia. METHODS: Five patients scheduled for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) received a preoperative FNB with 20 mL of bupivacaine in decreasing concentrations (0.0875%, 0.075%, 0.0625%, 0.050%, 0.0375%). Sensory block to cold in the anterior knee region, QS, surface electromyography (SEMG) of vastus lateralis (VL), vastus medialis (VM) and rectus femoris (RF) plus were recorded before and 30 minutes after the blockage. Posteriorly, the clinical data of 20 patients who underwent TKA and received a continuous femoral nerve block (CFNB) with bupivacaine in the most dilute concentration that granted sensory blockade and significantly preserved the QS in the previous analysis were retrospectively analyzed. Postoperative pain at 24 and 48 hours, morphine consumption at 24 hours, the ability to successfully perform physiotherapy on the first postoperative day (POD) and reports of falls were rescued from the patients' files. Finally, seventy-five patients that underwent TKA during 2018 who received a CFNB with a similar dilution, but using levobupivacaine, were also retrospectively analyzed. Postoperative pain, need for advanced rescue analgesia, ability to perform physiotherapy, CFNB related complications and reports of patients falls during the first 72 hours post-surgery were obtained. RESULTS: Biomechanical study: of the 5 concentrations analyzed, either 0.050% or 0.0375% bupivacaine were adequate producing sensory block and preserving 94% and 100% of the basal QS, respectively. With both concentrations, the SEMG showed a similar range of activation with respect to baseline values. Bupivacaine case series: Twenty patients undergoing TKA received a 5-8 mL/hr infusion of 0.037% bupivacaine. The average consumption of morphine at 24 hours was 3.9 (3.6) mg. The median [IQR] of dynamic postoperative pain at 24 and 48 hours was 3 [1-4] and 3 [2-5]. All patients had adequate active joint ranges at 24 hours and physiotherapy was not limited by significant motor block. No falls were reported during the stay. Levobupivacaine case series: seventy-five patients undergoing TKA received a 5-8 mL/hr infusion of 0.037% levobupivacaine. The median [IQR] of at rest (R) and dynamic (D) postoperative pain at 24, 48 and 72 hours were R24: 0 [0-3]; D24: 3 [1-5]; R48: 0 [0-2]; D48: 3 [1.5-5]; R72: 0 [0-1]; D72: 3 [1-4]. 21% of patients required adding a PCA mode to the CFNB and a 7% a morphine PCA. On POD 1, 4% of patients were not able to adequately perform rehabilitation. On POD 2 and 3, all patients had adequate active joint ranges and physiotherapy was not limited by significant motor block. There were also no falls during hospitalization. CONCLUSIONS: The use of diluted solutions of bupivacaine and levobupivacaine for CFNB may represent a good alternative for TKA postoperative analgesia while avoiding significant quadriceps paresis. Additional studies are necessary to determine the ideal concentration and administration regimen to then compare with other quadriceps sparing analgesic alternatives.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Las concentraciones habituales de anestésicos locales (AL) utilizadas para el bloqueo del nervio femoral (BNF) provocan una disminución significativa de la fuerza del cuádriceps (FC), limitando la fisioterapia y constituyendo un factor de riesgo de caídas de pacientes. El uso de soluciones más diluidas podría determinar preservación de la función motora sin perjudicar la analgesia. MÉTODOS: Cinco pacientes programados para artroplastía total de rodilla (ATR) recibieron un BNF preoperatorio con 20 mL de bupivacaína en concentraciones decrecientes (0,0875%, 0,075%, 0,0625%, 0,050%, 0,0375%). Se registró la FC, electromiografía de superficie (EMGS) de vasto lateral (VL), vasto medial (VM) y recto femoral (RF) y el bloqueo sensitivo al frío antes y 30 minutos después del bloqueo. Posteriormente, se analizó retrospectivamente 20 casos sometidos a ATR que recibieron un bloqueo continuo del nervio femoral (BCNF) con bupivacaína en la concentración más diluida que otorgó bloqueo sensitivo y preservó significativamente la fuerza basal del cuádriceps durante el análisis anterior. El dolor postoperatorio a las 24 y 48 horas, el consumo de morfina las primeras 24 horas, la capacidad de realizar con éxito la fisioterapia el primer día postoperatorio (DPO) y reporte de caídas fueron rescatados de los expedientes. Por último, también se analizó retrospectivamente un grupo de 75 pacientes sometidos a ATR durante el 2018 y que recibieron un BCNF con una dilución similar, pero de levobupivacaína. Se obtuvieron datos de dolor, requerimientos de rescate analgésico, capacidad de realizar rehabilitación, complicaciones del BCNF y reporte de caídas durante las primeras 72 horas postoperatorias. RESULTADOS: Estudio biomecánico: de las 5 concentraciones analizadas, tanto bupivacaína 0,05% como 0,0375% produjeron adecuado bloqueo sensorial preservando el 94% y el 100% de la FC, respectivamente. Con ambas concentraciones la EMGS mostró similar rango de activación respecto a valores basales. Serie de casos con bupivacaína: veinte pacientes sometidos a ATR recibieron una infusión de bupivacaína 0,037% a 5-8 mL/h. El consumo promedio de morfina a las 24 horas fue 3,9 (3,6) mg. La mediana [RIC] del dolor dinámico postoperatorio a las 24 y 48 horas fue 3 [1-4] y 3 [2-5]. Todos los pacientes tuvieron rangos articulares activos adecuados a las 24 horas y la fisioterapia no fue limitada por bloqueo motor significativo. No se registraron caídas durante la hospitalización. Serie de casos levobupivacaína: setenta y cinco pacientes sometidos a ATR recibieron una infusión de levobupivacaína 0,037% a 5-8 mL/h. La mediana [RIC] de dolor postoperatorio en reposo (R) y dinámico (D) a las 24, 48 y 72 horas fue R24: 0 [0-3]; D24: 3 [1-5]; R48: 0 [0-2]; D48: 3 [1.5-5]; R72: 0 [0-1]; D72: 3 [1-4]. Un 21% requirió agregar modo PCA al BCNF y 7% una PCA de morfina. En DPO 1, un 4% de pacientes no pudo realizar adecuadamente la rehabilitación. En DPO 2 y 3 todos los pacientes tuvieron rangos articulares activos adecuados y fisioterapia no fue limitada por bloqueo motor significativo. Tampoco se registraron caídas durante la hospitalización. CONCLUSIONES: El uso de soluciones diluidas de bupivacaína y levobupivacaína en BCNF podría representar una buena opción para analgesia postoperatoria en ATR evitando la paresia significativa del cuádriceps. Estudios adicionales son necesarios para determinar la concentración y régimen de administración ideal para luego comparar con otras alternativas analgésicas preservantes del cuádriceps.

The promise of growth hormone in sport: doped or duped

ABSTRACT Skeletal muscle is a target tissue of GH. Based on its anabolic properties, it is widely accepted that GH enhances muscle performance in sports. Athletic performance depends on muscle strength and the energy required to power muscle function. The energy required to power muscle function is derived from a continuum of anaerobic and aerobic sources. Molecular and functional studies provide evidence that in muscle GH stimulates the anaerobic and suppresses the aerobic energy system, in turn affecting power-based functional measures in a time-dependent manner. In recreational athletes, GH improves anaerobic capacity but has not been proven to significantly enhance muscle strength, power, or maximum rate of oxygen consumption. GH appears likely to selectively benefit sprint events and not physical performance that depends on strength and endurance. Arch Endocrinol Metab. 2019;63(6):576-81

New insights into the effects of irisin levels in HIV-infected subjects: correlation with adiposity, fat-free mass, and strength parameters

ABSTRACT Objective Patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have an increased risk of metabolic disorders and alterations on irisin levels. Therefore, the purpose of the current investigation was to quantify the circulating irisin concentration in HIV-infected subjects under highly active antiretroviral therapy and to determine possible correlations between irisin levels with fat mass, fat-free mass, body mass index (BMI), and muscle strength. Subjects and methods Cross-sectional study of 10 men (36.7 ± 11.3 years) and 10 women (42.5 ± 10.3 years) infected with HIV, recruited from the Specialized Service Center in the State Center of Reference for High and Medium Complexity. Blood samples were collected to determine plasma irisin levels, glucose, HDL, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL. Body composition (fat mass, fat-free mass) and anthropometrics (body mass index; BMI) were measured by bioelectrical impedance. Muscle strength was assessed using a mechanic hand dynamometer and one maximum repetition tests. Results Irisin levels correlated positively with fat mass (r = 0.67; p = 0.001) and BMI (r = 0.48; p = 0.036). In contrast, there was an inverse correlation between irisin levels and fat-free mass (r = -0.41; p = 0.008) and five strength parameters: right hand grip (r = -0.46; p = 0.044); left hand grip (r = -0.50; p = 0.027), relative hand grip (r = -0.79; p = 0.001), bench press (r = -0.58; p = 0.009), leg press (r = -0.40; p = 0.085), and biceps curl (r = -0.059; p = 0.009). Conclusion Irisin levels correlated positively with body fat and negatively with fat-free mass and strength parameters in HIV-infected patients. Female patients infected with HIV receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy have higher levels of irisin compared with men in a similar circumstance.

Morphometric study of muscle fibers in rats submitted to strength training and growth hormone / Estudio morfométrico de las fibras musculares de ratas sometidos a entrenamiento de la fuerza muscular y hormona del crecimiento

The aim of the present study was to observe the changes in the muscle tissue of rats after application of growth hormone (GH) and performing a strength training protocol (ST). In total, 40 male Wistar rats, 60 days old, were used, divided into four groups: control (C), control and application of GH (GHC), strength training (T), and strength training with the application of GH (GHT). The physical training protocol (PT) was composed of four series of 10 jumps in water, 3x/week, with an overload of 50 % of body weight for four weeks. GH was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 0.2 IU/Kg to the GHC and GHT groups and saline (0.9 % sodium chloride) to the C and T groups. After four weeks of PT, the animals were euthanized and samples taken from the Soleus muscle. Histological sections were produced with a thickness of 5 mm and stained with hematoxylin-eosin (HE) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide tetrazolium reductase (NADH-TR). The markings for determining the measurement of the smallest diameter of muscle fibers (MF) were carried out using the software (AuxioVisionRel 4.8-Carl Zeiss® and NIS-Elements D3.0-SP7-Nikon®). After obtaining the data, the Shapiro-Wilk test for normality was performed and then the nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis with Dunn post-test were used for analysis of MF and the Student t test for the analysis of intragroup body weights. All procedures adopted a 5 % significance value (p <0.05) and were performed using the software SPSS 22.0 for Windows®. It was observed that both the GH and PT were able to generate increased diameter of MF (C:31.81±6.35; GHC:36.88±6.38; T:38.38± 6.94; GHT:36.89±7.16). Moreover, when analyzing the type, a significant increase was found only in the fast twitch MF (C:33.78±7.78; GHC:37.80±6.03; T:38.53±6.94; GHT:37.98±7.65) when compared to the slow twitch (C:25.93±6.66; GHC:26.95±8.03; T:26.24±6.90; GHT:27.20±5.77).

El objetivo de la investigación fue observar las modificaciones en tejido muscular esquelético de ratas después de la aplicación de la hormona del crecimiento (GH) y posterior entrenamiento de fuerza muscular (EFM). Fueran utilizadas 40 ratas Wistar, con 60 días de edad, distribuidas en: control (C), control y aplicación de la hormona del crecimiento (GHC), entrenamiento de fuerza muscular (T), y entrenamiento de fuerza muscular y hormona del crecimiento (GHT). El protocolo de entrenamiento (PT) fue compuesto por cuatro series de diez saltos acuáticos, 3x/semana, con sobrecarga de 50 % del peso corporal, por cuatro semanas. El GH fue aplicado de forma intraperitoneal con una dosis de 0,2UI/kg en grupos GHC y GHT y solución salina (0,9% clorhidrato de sodio) en grupos C y T. Después de cuatro semanas del PT, los animales fueron sacrificados y retirados los músculos sóleos. Se realizaron cortes de 5 µm los que fueron coloreados con Hematoxilina y Eosina (HE), posteriormente fueron sometidos a reacción con nicotinamida adenina dinucleotide tetrazolium reductasa (NADH-TR). Después de la obtención de los datos, fue utilizado la prueba del Shapiro-Wilk para la verificación de la normalidad de los datos y se usó el ensayo de Kruskal-Wallis con pos verificación del Dunn para análisis de las fibras musculares (FM) y prueba t del Student para la análisis del peso corporal entre los grupos. Todos los procedimientos fueron establecidos con valor de la significancia de 5 % (p<0,05) y realizados con el software SPSS 22.0 for Windows®. Fue verificado que tanto lo GH cuanto lo PT fueran capaces de proporcionar el aumento en el diámetro de las FM (C:31.81±6.35; GHC:36.88±6.38; T:38.38±6.94; GHT:36.89±7.16). En relación al tipo de fibras se observó aumento significativo solamente en las FM de contracción rápida (C:33.78±7.78; GHC:37.80±6.03; T:38.53±6.94; GHT:37.98±7.65) cuando se comparó con las FM de contracción lenta (C:25.93±6.66; GHC:26.95±8.03; T:26.24±6.90; GHT:27.20±5.77).

Six-minute walk test and respiratory muscle strength in patients with uncontrolled severe asthma: a pilot study / Teste de caminhada de seis minutos e força muscular respiratória em pacientes com asma grave não controlada: um estudo piloto

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate respiratory muscle strength and six-minute walk test (6MWT) variables in patients with uncontrolled severe asthma (UCSA). METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study involving UCSA patients followed at a university hospital. The patients underwent 6MWT, spirometry, and measurements of respiratory muscle strength, as well as completing the Asthma Control Test (ACT). The Mann-Whitney test was used in order to analyze 6MWT variables, whereas the Kruskal-Wallis test was used to determine whether there was an association between the use of oral corticosteroids and respiratory muscle strength. RESULTS: We included 25 patients. Mean FEV1 was 58.8 ± 21.8% of predicted, and mean ACT score was 14.0 ± 3.9 points. No significant difference was found between the median six-minute walk distance recorded for the UCSA patients and that predicted for healthy Brazilians (512 m and 534 m, respectively; p = 0.14). During the 6MWT, there was no significant drop in SpO2. Mean MIP and MEP were normal (72.9 ± 15.2% and 67.6 ± 22.2%, respectively). Comparing the patients treated with at least four courses of oral corticosteroids per year and those treated with three or fewer, we found no significant differences in MIP (p = 0.15) or MEP (p = 0.45). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that UCSA patients are similar to normal subjects in terms of 6MWT variables and respiratory muscle strength. The use of oral corticosteroids has no apparent impact on respiratory muscle strength. .

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a força muscular respiratória e variáveis obtidas no teste de caminhada de seis minutos (TC6) em pacientes com asma grave não controlada (AGNC). MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, envolvendo pacientes com AGNC acompanhados em um hospital universitário. Os pacientes foram submetidos a TC6, espirometria e medidas da força muscular respiratória e responderam o Asthma Control Test (ACT, Teste de Controle da Asma). O teste de Mann-Whitney foi utilizado na análise das variáveis do TC6, e o teste de Kruskal-Wallis foi utilizado na verificação de uma possível associação do uso de corticoide oral com a força muscular respiratória. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídos 25 pacientes, com médias de VEF1 de 58,8 ± 21,8% do previsto e escore do ACT de 14,0 ± 3,9 pontos. Não houve diferença significativa entre a mediana da distância percorrida no TC6 dos pacientes com AGNC e aquela prevista para brasileiros saudáveis (512 m e 534 m, respectivamente; p = 0,14). Durante o TC6, não houve queda significativa da SpO2. As médias de PImáx e PEmáx foram normais (72,9 ± 15,2% e 67,6 ± 22,2%, respectivamente). Não houve diferenças significativas nas medidas de PImáx (p = 0,15) e PEmáx (p = 0,45) entre os pacientes que usavam ao menos quatro ciclos de corticoide oral por ano e os que o usavam por três ou menos ciclos por ano. CONCLUSÕES: Nossos achados sugerem que os pacientes com AGNC são semelhantes a indivíduos normais em termos das variáveis do TC6 e da força muscular respiratória. Não se observou um impacto do uso de corticoide oral na força muscular respiratória. .

Effect of L-carnitine on exercise performance in patients with mitochondrial myopathy

Exercise intolerance due to impaired oxidative metabolism is a prominent symptom in patients with mitochondrial myopathy (MM), but it is still uncertain whether L-carnitine supplementation is beneficial for patients with MM. The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of L-carnitine on exercise performance in MM. Twelve MM subjects (mean age±SD=35.4±10.8 years) with chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia (CPEO) were first compared to 10 healthy controls (mean age±SD=29±7.8 years) before they were randomly assigned to receive L-carnitine supplementation (3 g/daily) or placebo in a double-blind crossover design. Clinical status, body composition, respiratory function tests, peripheral muscle strength (isokinetic and isometric torque) and cardiopulmonary exercise tests (incremental to peak exercise and at 70% of maximal), constant work rate (CWR) exercise test, to the limit of tolerance [Tlim]) were assessed after 2 months of L-carnitine/placebo administration. Patients with MM presented with lower mean height, total body weight, fat-free mass, and peripheral muscle strength compared to controls in the pre-test evaluation. After L-carnitine supplementation, the patients with MM significantly improved their Tlim (14±1.9 vs 11±1.4 min) and oxygen consumption ( V ˙ O 2 ) at CWR exercise, both at isotime (1151±115 vs 1049±104 mL/min) and at Tlim (1223±114 vs 1060±108 mL/min). These results indicate that L-carnitine supplementation may improve aerobic capacity and exercise tolerance during high-intensity CWRs in MM patients with CPEO.

Epidemiology of coronary artery bypass grafting at the Hospital Beneficência Portuguesa, São Paulo / Epidemiologia da cirurgia de revascularização miocárdica do Hospital Beneficência Portuguesa de São Paulo

Introduction: The knowledge of the prevalence of risk factors and comorbidities, as well as the evolution and complications in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft allows comparison between institutions and evidence of changes in the profile of patients and postoperative evolution over time. Objective: To profile (risk factors and comorbidities) and clinical outcome (complications) in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft in a national institution of great surgical volume. Methods: A retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft in the hospital Beneficência Portuguesa de São Paulo, from July 2009 to July 2010. Results: We included 3,010 patients, mean age of 62.2 years and 69.9% male. 83.8% of patients were hypertensive, 36.6% diabetic, 44.5% had dyslipidemia, 15.3% were smokers, 65.7% were overweight/obese, 29.3% had a family history of coronary heart disease. The expected mortality calculated by logistic EuroSCORE was 2.7%. The isolated CABG occurred in 89.3% and 11.9% surgery was performed without cardiopulmonary bypass. The most common complication was cardiac arrhythmia (18.7%), especially acute atrial fibrillation (14.3%). Pneumonia occurred in 6.2% of patients, acute renal failure in 4.4%, mediastinites in 2.1%, stroke in 1.8% and AMI in 1.2%. The in-hospital mortality was 5.4% and in isolated coronary artery bypass graft was 3.5%. The average hospital stay was 11 days with a median of eight days (3-244 days). Conclusion: The profile of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery in this study is similar to other published studies. .

Introdução: O conhecimento da prevalência dos fatores de risco e comorbidades, bem como a evolução com complicações nos pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de revascularização miocárdica, permite a comparação entre instituições e a comprovação de modificações no perfil de pacientes e na evolução pós-operatória ao longo do tempo. Objetivo: Conhecer o perfil (fatores de risco e comorbidades) e a evolução clínica (complicações) nos pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de revascularização miocárdica em uma instituição nacional de grande volume cirúrgico. Métodos: Estudo de coorte retrospectivo de pacientes submetidos ao procedimento de cirurgia de revascularização miocárdica no Hospital Beneficência Portuguesa de São Paulo, no período de julho de 2009 a julho de 2010. Resultados: Foram incluídos 3010 pacientes, com idade média de 62,2 anos e 69,9% do sexo masculino. 82,8% dos pacientes eram hipertensos, 36,6% diabéticos, 44,5% dislipidêmicos, 15,3% tabagistas, 65,7% com sobrepeso/obesidade e 29,3% tinham antecedentes familiares de doença coronária. A mortalidade média esperada calculada pelo EuroSCORE logístico foi de 2,7%. A cirurgia de revascularização miocárdica isolada ocorreu em 89,3% e em 11,9% foi realizada cirurgia sem circulação extracorpórea. A complicação mais comum foi arritmia cardíaca (18,7%), especialmente a fibrilação atrial aguda (14,3%). Pneumonia ocorreu em 6,2% dos pacientes, lesão renal aguda em 4,4%, mediastinite em 2,1%, acidente vascular encefálico em 1,8% e infarto agudo do miocárdio em 1,2%. A mortalidade intra-hospitalar foi de 5,4% e na cirurgia de revascularização miocárdica isolada foi de 3,5%. O tempo de permanência hospitalar médio foi de 11 dias, com mediana de oito dias (3 - 244 dias). Conclusão: O perfil dos pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de revascularização miocárdica neste estudo assemelha-se ao de outros estudos publicados. .

Erythropoietin reduces the expression of myostatin in mdx dystrophic mice

Erythropoietin (EPO) has been well characterized as a renal glycoprotein hormone regulating red blood cell production by inhibiting apoptosis of erythrocyte progenitors in hematopoietic tissues. EPO exerts regulatory effects in cardiac and skeletal muscles. Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a lethal degenerative disorder of skeletal and cardiac muscle. In this study, we tested the possible therapeutic beneficial effect of recombinant EPO (rhEPO) in dystrophic muscles in mdx mice. Total strength was measured using a force transducer coupled to a computer. Gene expression for myostatin, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) was determined by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction. Myostatin expression was significantly decreased in quadriceps from mdx mice treated with rhEPO (rhEPO=0.60±0.11, control=1.07±0.11). On the other hand, rhEPO had no significant effect on the expression of TGF-β1 (rhEPO=0.95±0.14, control=1.05±0.16) and TNF-α (rhEPO=0.73±0.20, control=1.01±0.09). These results may help to clarify some of the direct actions of EPO on skeletal muscle.

Effects of eugenol on resting tension of rat atria

In cardiac and skeletal muscle, eugenol (μM range) blocks excitation-contraction coupling. In skeletal muscle, however, larger doses of eugenol (mM range) induce calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum. The effects of eugenol are therefore dependent on its concentration. In this study, we evaluated the effects of eugenol on the contractility of isolated, quiescent atrial trabeculae from male Wistar rats (250-300 g; n=131) and measured atrial ATP content. Eugenol (1, 3, 5, 7, and 10 mM) increased resting tension in a dose-dependent manner. Ryanodine [100 µM; a specific ryanodine receptor (RyR) blocker] and procaine (30 mM; a nonspecific RyR blocker) did not block the increased resting tension induced by eugenol regardless of whether extracellular calcium was present. The myosin-specific inhibitor 2,3-butanedione monoxime (BDM), however, reversed the increase in resting tension induced by eugenol. In Triton-skinned atrial trabeculae, in which all membranes were solubilized, eugenol did not change resting tension, maximum force produced, or the force vs pCa relationship (pCa=-log [Ca2+]). Given that eugenol reduced ATP concentration, the increase in resting tension observed in this study may have resulted from cooperative activation of cardiac thin filaments by strongly attached cross-bridges (rigor state).

Effects of subclinical hypothyroidism treatment on psychiatric symptoms, muscular complaints, and quality of life / Efeitos do tratamento do hipotiroidismo subclínico sobre sintomas psiquiátricos, queixas musculares e qualidade de vida

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the impact of subclinical hypothyroidism (sHT) treatment on health-related quality of life (QoL), psychiatric symptoms, clinical score, and muscle function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this randomized double-blind study, patients were assigned either to treatment (n = 35) or placebo (n = 36). Clinical and psychiatric symptoms were assessed by the Zulewski, Hamilton and Beck scales. QoL was assessed by the SF-36 questionnaire. Assessments of quadriceps (QS) and inspiratory muscle (IS) strength were performed by a chair dynamometer and a manuvacuometer. RESULTS: Treatment improved IS (+11.5 ± 17.2; p = 0.041), as did QoL domains "Pain" and "Role Physical" (+19.7 ± 15.2, 0.039 and +22.1 ± 47.5, p = 0.054; respectively). Clinical and psychiatric symptoms showed similar responses to both interventions. CONCLUSIONS: sHT treatment improved IS and physical aspects of QoL, despite no impact in other muscle parameters. Clinical score, psychiatric symptoms, and SF-36 domains, based on mental dimensions of QoL may be more susceptible to "placebo effect" in patients with sHT.

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar o impacto do tratamento do hipotireoidismo subclínico (sHT) na qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde (QoL), aos sintomas psiquiátricos, ao escore clínico e à função muscular. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Em um ensaio randomizado duplo-cego, pacientes foram randomizados para tratamento (n = 35) ou uso de placebo (n = 36). Sintomas clínicos e psiquiátricos foram acessados por meio das escalas de Zulewski, Hamilton e Beck. A QoL foi avaliada pelo questionário SF-36. Medidas da força de quadríceps (QS) e inspiratória (IS) foram obtidas por um dinamômetro de cadeira e um manovacuômetro. RESULTADOS: O tratamento melhorou a IS (+11,5 ± 17,2; p = 0,041), assim como os domínios "Dor" e "Aspectos Físicos" da QoL (+19,7 ± 15,2, 0,039 e +22,1 ± 47,5, p = 0,054, respectivamente). Sintomas clínicos e psiquiátricos demonstraram respostas similares a ambas as formas de intervenção. CONCLUSÕES: Tratamento do sHT melhorou IS e aspectos físicos da QoL, apesar de não ter impacto em outros parâmetros musculares. Escore clínico, sintomas psiquiátricos e domínios do SF-36 que focam em dimensões mentais podem ser mais suscetíveis ao "efeito placebo" em pacientes com sHT.

Quantitative Assessment of the T2 Relaxation Time of the Gluteus Muscles in Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: a Comparative Study Before and After Steroid Treatment

OBJECTIVE: To determine the feasibility of using T2 mapping as a quantitative method to longitudinally follow the disease activity in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) who are treated with steroids. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eleven boys with DMD (age range: 5-14 years) underwent evaluation with the clinical functional score (CFS), and conventional pelvic MRI and T2 mapping before and during steroid therapy. The gluteus muscle inflammation and fatty infiltration were evaluated on conventional MRI. The histograms and mean T2 relaxation times were obtained from the T2 maps. The CFS, the conventional MRI findings and the T2 values were compared before and during steroid therapy. RESULTS: None of the patients showed interval change of their CFSs. On conventional MRI, none of the images showed muscle inflammation. During steroid treatment, two boys showed increased fatty infiltration on conventional MRI, and both had an increase of the mean T2 relaxation time (p < 0.05). The remaining nine boys had no increase in fatty infiltration. Of these, three showed an increased mean T2 relaxation time (p < 0.05), two showed no change and four showed a decreased mean T2 relaxation time (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: T2 mapping is a feasible technique to evaluate the longitudinal muscle changes in those children who receive steroid therapy for DMD. The differences of the mean T2 relaxation time may reflect alterations in disease activity, and even when the conventional MRI and CFS remain stable.