Reduced mobility is associated with adverse outcomes after in-hospital cardiac arrest

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: In-hospital cardiac arrest is a critical medical emergency. Knowledge of prognostic factors could assist in cardiopulmonary resuscitation decision-making. Frailty and functional status are emerging risk factors and may play a role in prognostication. The objective was to evaluate the association between reduced mobility and in-hospital cardiac arrest outcomes. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included patients over 18 years of age with in-hospital cardiac arrest in Botucatu, Brazil, from April 2018 to December 2021. Exclusion criteria were patients with a do-not-resuscitate order or patients with recurrent in-hospital cardiac arrest. Reduced mobility was defined as the need for a bed bath 48 h before in-hospital cardiac arrest. The outcomes of no return of spontaneous circulation and in-hospital mortality were evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 387 patients were included in the analysis. The mean age was 65.4±14.8 years; 53.7% were males and 75.4% had reduced mobility. Among the evaluated outcomes, the no return of spontaneous circulation rate was 57.1%, and in-hospital mortality was 94.3%. In multivariate analysis, reduced mobility was associated with no return of spontaneous circulation when adjusted by age, gender, initial shockable rhythm, duration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and epinephrine administration. However, in multiple logistic regression, there was no association between reduced mobility and in-hospital mortality. CONCLUSION: In patients with in-hospital cardiac arrest, reduced mobility is associated with no return of spontaneous circulation. However, there is no relation to in-hospital mortality.

Is there a relationship between preoperative cytological diagnosis and evolution in patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma? A retrospective study

ABSTRACT Objective: Cytological analysis and Bethesda classification of thyroid nodules is the standard method of diagnosing differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC). However, even for nodules with a non-malignant cytological diagnosis, there is a not insignificant risk of cancer. There are doubts whether this lack of certainty would influence patient prognosis. Our aim was to compare patients with DTC, classified according to the preoperative cytological diagnosis, regarding their evolution. Subjects and methods: A retrospective study was carried out with 108 DTC patients submitted to total thyroidectomy (TT) between 2009 and 2015, divided into three groups according to preoperative cytological diagnosis (Bethesda classification): classes I/II, III/IV, and V/VI. Groups were compared for evolution considering response to treatment at last evaluation as well as time disease free. Statistical analysis used ANOVA, chi squared, and Kaplan-Meier curves with p<0.05 considered significant. Results: Groups differed for time between nodule puncture and TT [in months; V/VI (2.35 ± 2.48) < III/IV (7.32 ± 6.34) < I/II (13.36 ± 8.9); p < 0.0001]. There was no significant difference between groups for evolution at final evaluation (disease free status; classes I/II: 71.4%; classes III/IV: 60%; classes V/VI: 66.6%; p = 0.7433), as well as time disease free (in months; classes I/II: 34.57 ± 25.82; classes III/IV: 38.04 ± 26.66; classes V/VI: 30.84 ± 26.34; p = 0.3841). Conclusions: DTC patients classified according to preoperative cytological diagnosis did not differ for evolution. Although patients with non-malignant cytological diagnoses were submitted to TT later, this did not affect the evolution of the cases.

The supplementation of L-carnitine in septic shock patients: Systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background Sepsis and septic shock are severe and difficult-to-treat conditions with high lethality. There is interest in identifying new adjunct therapies that are effective in reducing mortality. In this context, L-carnitine has been investigated in trials as a potentially beneficial drug. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review was to assess the clinical evidence to support the use of L-carnitine in septic shock patients to reduce the risk of mortality. The objective of this review was to evaluate the effect of L-carnitine compared to placebo or Usual Care (UC) on the mortality rate in hospitalized adult septic shock patients. Methods The authors exclusively included randomized clinical trials that compared the use of L-carnitine versus placebo in adult (> 18 years old) septic shock patients. The outcome was a mortality rate of 28 days. This systematic review and meta-analysis were performed following the PRISMA guidelines and registered in PROSPERO with the ID CRD42020180499. Results Following the initial search, 4007 citations were identified, with 2701 remaining after duplicate removal. Eight citations were selected for body text reading, and two were selected for inclusion. The studies enrolled 275 patients, with 186 in the carnitine arm and 89 in the placebo arm. The effect of L-carnitine uses in septic shock patients showed a difference risk of -0.03 (95% Confidence Interval: -0.15-0.10, I2 = 77%, p = 0.69) compared to placebo/in mortality rate with low quality of evidence. Conclusions There is low-quality evidence that the use of L-carnitine has no significant effect on reducing 28-day mortality in septic shock patients.

Suplementação de Vitamina D Induz Remodelação Cardíaca em Ratos: Associação com a Proteína de Interação com a Tiorredoxina e a Tiorredoxina / Vitamin D Supplementation Induces Cardiac Remodeling in Rats: Association with Thioredoxin-Interacting Protein and Thioredoxin

Resumo Fundamento: A vitamina D (VD) tem um importante papel na função cardíaca. No entanto, a vitamina exerce uma curva "dose-resposta" bifásica na fisiopatologia cardiovascular e pode causar efeitos deletérios, mesmo em doses não tóxicas. A VD exerce suas funções celulares ligando-se ao seu receptor. Ainda, a expressão da proteína de interação com a tiorredoxina (TXNIP) é positivamente regulada pela VD. A TXNIP modula diferentes visa de sinalização celular que podem ser importantes para a remodelação cardíaca. Objetivos: Avaliar se a suplementação com VD leva à remodelação cardíaca, e se a TXNIP e a tiorredoxina (Trx) estão associadas com esse processo. Métodos: Duzentos e cinquenta ratos Wistar machos foram alocados em três grupos: controle (C, n=21), sem suplementação com VD; VD3 (n = 22) e VD10 (n=21), suplementados com 3,000 e 10,000 UI de VD/ kg de ração, respectivamente, por dois meses. Os grupos foram comparados por análise de variância (ANOVA) com um fator e teste post hoc de Holm-Sidak (variáveis com distribuição normal), ou pelo teste de Kruskal-Wallis e análise post-hoc de Dunn. O nível de significância para todos os testes foi de 5%. Resultados: A expressão de TXNIP foi mais alta e a atividade do Trx foi mais baixa no grupo VD10. Os animais que receberam suplementação com VD apresentaram aumento de hidroperóxido lipídico e diminuição de superóxido dismutase e glutationa peroxidase. A proteína Bcl-2 foi mais baixa no grupo VD10. Observou-se uma diminuição na β-oxidação de ácidos graxos, no ciclo do ácido tricarboxílico, na cadeia transportadora de elétrons, e um aumento na via glicolítica. Conclusão: A suplementação com VD levou à remodelação cardíaca e esse processo pode ser modulado por TXNIP e Trx, e consequentemente por estresse oxidativo.

Abstract Background: Vitamin D (VD) has been shown to play an important role in cardiac function. However, this vitamin exerts a biphasic "dose response" curve in cardiovascular pathophysiology and may cause deleterious effects, even in non-toxic doses. VD exerts its cellular functions by binding to VD receptor. Additionally, it was identified that the thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) expression is positively regulated by VD. TXNIP modulate different cell signaling pathways that may be important for cardiac remodeling. Objective: To evaluate whether VD supplementation lead to cardiac remodeling and if TXNIP and thioredoxin (Trx) proteins are associated with the process. Methods: A total of 250 Male Wistar rats were allocated into three groups: control (C, n=21), with no VD supplementation; VD3 (n = 22) and VD10 (n=21), supplemented with 3,000 and 10,000 IU of VD/ kg of chow respectively, for two months. The groups were compared by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Holm-Sidak post hoc analysis, (variables with normal distribution), or by Kruskal-Wallis test and Dunn's test post hoc analysis. The significance level for all tests was 5%. Results: TXNIP protein expression was higher and Trx activity was lower in VD10. The animals supplemented with VD showed increased lipid hydroperoxide and decreased superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. The protein Bcl-2 was lower in VD10. There was a decrease in fatty acid β-oxidation, tricarboxylic acid cycle and electron transport chain with shift to increase in glycolytic pathway. Conclusion: VD supplementation led to cardiac remodeling and this process may be modulated by TXNIP and Trx proteins and consequently oxidative stress.

Influência do Consumo de Suco de Laranja (Citrus Sinensis) na Remodelação Cardíaca de Ratos Submetidos a Infarto do Miocárdio / Influence of Consumption of Orange Juice (Citrus Sinensis) on Cardiac Remodeling of Rats Submitted to Myocardial Infarction

Resumo Fundamento O suco de laranja (SL) é rico em polifenóis com propriedades anti-inflamatórias e antioxidantes. Após o infarto do miocárdio (IM), mudanças complexas ocorrem na estrutura e na função cardíacas, processo conhecido como remodelação cardíaca (RC). O estresse oxidativo e a inflamação podem modular esse processo. Nossa hipótese foi a de que o consumo de SL atenua a RC após o IM. Objetivos Avaliar a influência do SL sobre a RC após IM pela análise de variáveis funcionais, morfológicas, de estresse oxidativo, de inflação, e de metabolismo energético. Métodos Um total de 242 ratos machos pesando entre 200 e 250g foram submetidos a um procedimento cirúrgico (ligação da artéria coronária ou cirurgia simulada). Sete dia após a cirurgia, os animais sobreviventes foram divididos para um dos quatro grupos: 1) SM, animais sham que receberam água e maltodextrina (n= 20); 2) SSL, animais sham que receberam SL (n= 20); 3) IM, animais infartados que receberam água e maltodextrina (n= 40); e 4) ISL, animais infartados que receberam SL (n = 40). A análise estatística foi realizada pelo teste de ANOVA com dois fatores com o teste de Holm-Sidak. Os resultados foram apresentados em média ± desvio padrão, e o nível de significância adotado foi de 5%. Resultados Três meses depois, o IM levou à hipertrofia do ventrículo esquerdo (VE), com disfunção sistólica e diastólica, e aumento nos mediadores inflamatórios e de estresse oxidativo. Os animais que consumiram SL apresentaram menor atividade da glutationa peroxidase e maior expressão da heme-oxigenase-1 (HO-1). Conclusão O SL atenuou a RC, e a HO-1 pode exercer um importante papel nesse processo.

Abstract Background Orange juice (OJ) is rich in polyphenols with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. After myocardial infarction (MI), complex changes occur in cardiac structure and function, which is known as cardiac remodeling (CR). Oxidative stress and inflammation can modulate this process. We hypothesized that the consumption of OJ attenuates the CR after MI. Objectives To evaluate the influence of OJ on CR after MI by analysis of functional, morphological, oxidative stress, inflammation, and energy metabolism variables. Methods A total of 242 male rats weighing 200-250 g were submitted to a surgical procedure (coronary artery ligation or simulated surgery). Seven days after surgery, survivors were assigned to one of the four groups 1) SM, sham animals with water and maltodextrin (n= 20); 2) SOJ, sham animals with OJ (n= 20); 3) IM, infarcted animals with water and maltodextrin (n= 40); and 4) IOJ, infarcted animals with OJ (n = 40). Statistical analysis was performed by the two-way ANOVA supplemented by Holm-Sidak. Results are presented as mean ± standard deviation, the level of significance adopted was 5%. Results After 3 months, MI led to left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy, with systolic and diastolic dysfunction, and increased oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators. OJ intake reduced LV cavity and improved systolic and diastolic function. The OJ animals presented lower activity of glutathione peroxidase and higher expression of heme-oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Conclusion OJ attenuated CR in infarcted rats and HO-1 may be play an important role in this process.

Clinical and echocardiographic predictors of left ventricular remodeling following anterior acute myocardial infarction

OBJECTIVES: Coronary artery disease is the primary cause of death and is responsible for a high number of hospitalizations worldwide. Ventricular remodeling is associated with worse prognosis following ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and is a risk factor for ventricular dysfunction and heart failure. This study aimed to identify the predictors of ventricular remodeling following STEMI. Additionally, we evaluated the clinical, laboratory, and echocardiographic characteristics of patients with anterior wall STEMI who underwent primary percutaneous intervention in the acute phase and at 6 months after the infarction. METHODS: This prospective, observational, and longitudinal study included 50 patients with anterior wall STEMI who were admitted to the coronary care unit (CCU) of a tertiary hospital in Brazil between July 2017 and August 2018. During the CCU stay, patients were evaluated daily and underwent echocardiogram within the first three days following STEMI. After six months, the patients underwent clinical evaluation and echocardiogram according to the local protocol. RESULTS: Differences were noted between those who developed ventricular remodeling and those who did not in the mean±standard deviation levels of creatine phosphokinase MB isoenzyme (CKMB) peak (no remodeling group: 323.7±228.2 U/L; remodeling group: 522.4±201.6 U/L; p=0.008) and the median and interquartile range of E/E' ratio (no remodeling group: 9.20 [8.50-11.25] and remodeling group: 12.60 [10.74-14.40]; p=0.004). This difference was also observed in multivariate logistic regression. CONCLUSIONS: Diastolic dysfunction and CKMB peak in the acute phase of STEMI can be predictors of ventricular remodeling following STEMI.

Safety of the effective radiation dose received during stroke hospitalization / Segurança da dose de radiação efetiva recebida durante internação por acidente vascular cerebral

Abstract Background Neuroimaging is widely used for diagnosis and treatment of stroke. However, little is known about whether the radiation doses received by patients comply with international safety guidelines. Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the effective radiation dose received while in hospital for stroke and analyze its safety according to current guidelines. Methods This cross-sectional study included 109 patients who were hospitalized and diagnosed with ischemic stroke. The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale was used to evaluate stroke severity, the Bamford clinical classification was used for topography, and the TOAST classification was used for etiology. The computed tomography dose index and size-specific dose estimates were used to calculate the effective radiation dose (ERD) received while in hospital. A Mann-Whitney test was used to compare the ERD received by thrombolysed and non-thrombolysed patients. Non-parametric statistics were used to analyze the data with a 95% confidence interval. Results During the study period, the median ERD received was 10.9 mSv. Length of stay was not associated with radiation exposure. No differences were demonstrated in ERD according to stroke etiology or Bamford clinical classification. Patients who had CT perfusion (only or in addition to CT or angiotomography) received the highest ERD (46.5 mSv) and the difference compared to those who did not (10.8 mSv) was statistically significant (p<0.001). No differences were found in the ERD between thrombolysed and non-thrombolysed patients. There was no correlation between ERD while in hospital and stroke severity. Conclusions According to the current national guidelines, the protocol for examining images at our stroke unit is safe in terms of the ERD received by the patient while in hospital. There was no difference in the ERD received by patients stratified by thrombolytic treatment or stroke severity.

Resumo Contexto A neuroimagem é amplamente utilizada para o diagnóstico e tratamento do acidente vascular cerebral (AVC). No entanto, pouco se sabe se a dose de radiação recebida nesses exames está de acordo com as diretrizes internacionais de segurança. Objetivos O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a dose de radiação efetiva (DRE) durante a hospitalização por AVC. Métodos Trata-se de estudo transversal com 109 pacientes hospitalizados com diagnóstico de AVC isquêmico. A gravidade do AVC foi avaliada pela National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, a topografia pela classificação clínica de Bamford e a etiologia pelo Trial of ORG 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment (TOAST). O índice de dose recebida no exame de tomografia computadorizada (TC) e as estimativas de dose específicas foram usados ​​para calcular a DRE recebida durante a hospitalização. O teste de Mann-Whitney foi utilizado para comparar a DRE recebida por pacientes trombolisados ​​e não trombolisados. Estatísticas não paramétricas foram utilizadas para analisar os dados. Resultados Durante o período do estudo, a DRE foi de 10,9 mSv. O tempo de internação não foi associado à exposição à radiação. Nenhuma diferença foi demonstrada na DRE de acordo com a etiologia e classificação clínica de Bamford. Os pacientes que fizeram perfusão (isolada, associada à TC ou angiotomografia) receberam a maior DRE (46,5 mSv) em comparação aos que não fizeram (10,8 mSv), sendo estatisticamente significativo (p <0,001). Não foram encontradas diferenças na DRE entre pacientes trombolisados e não trombolisados. Não houve correlação entre a DRE durante a hospitalização com a gravidade do AVC. Conclusões De acordo com as atuais diretrizes nacionais, o protocolo de exame de imagens na unidade de AVC é seguro em relação à DRE recebido pelo paciente durante a internação. Não houve diferença na DRE dos pacientes de acordo com o tratamento trombolítico e a gravidade do AVC.

Evaluation of peptidylarginine deiminase 4 and PADI4 polymorphisms in sepsis-induced acute kidney injury

SUMMARY BACKGROUND: The aim of this study is to evaluate the peptidylarginine deiminase 4 (PAD 4) concentration and PADI4 polymorphisms as predictors of acute kidney injury (AKI) development, the need for renal replacement therapy (RRT), and mortality in patients with septic shock. METHODS: We included all individuals aged ≥ 18 years, with a diagnosis of septic shock at ICU admission. Blood samples were taken within the first 24 hours of the patient's admission to determine serum PAD4 concentration and its PADI4 polymorphism (rs11203367) and (rs874881). Patients were monitored during their ICU stay and the development of SAKI was evaluated. Among the patients in whom SAKI developed, mortality and the need for RRT were also evaluated. RESULTS: There were 99 patients, 51.5% of whom developed SAKI and of these, 21.5% needed RRT and 80% died in the ICU. There was no difference between PAD4 concentration (p = 0.116) and its polymorphisms rs11203367 (p = 0.910) and rs874881 (p = 0.769) in patients in whom SAKI did or did not develop. However, PAD4 had a positive correlation with plasma urea concentration (r = 0.269 and p = 0.007) and creatinine (r = 0.284 and p = 0.004). The PAD4 concentration and PADI4 polymorphisms were also not associated with RRT and with mortality in patients with SAKI. CONCLUSION: PAD4 concentration and its polymorphisms were not associated with SAKI development, the need for RRT, or mortality in patients with septic shock. However, PAD4 concentrations were associated with creatinine and urea levels in these patients.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Avaliar a concentração da peptidilarginina deiminase 4 (PAD4) e os polimorfismos de PADI4, como preditores de desenvolvimento de lesão renal aguda, necessidade de terapia renal substitutiva (TRS) e mortalidade em pacientes com choque séptico. MÉTODOS: Foram incluídos indivíduos com idade ≥18 anos, com diagnóstico de choque séptico na admissão na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI). Amostras de sangue foram coletadas nas primeiras 24 horas após a admissão do paciente para determinar a concentração sérica de PAD4 e seus polimorfismos PADI4 (rs11203367) e (rs874881). Os pacientes foram acompanhados durante a internação na UTI e tiveram avaliados desenvolvimento da lesão renal aguda séptica (Sepsis-induced acute kidney injury - Saki), necessidade TRS e mortalidade. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliados 99 pacientes; 51,5% desenvolveram Saki e, desses, 21,5% necessitaram de TRS e 80% morreram na UTI. Não houve diferença entre a concentração de PAD4 (p=0,116) e seus polimorfismos rs11203367 (p=0,910) e rs874881 (p=0,769) entre os pacientes. No entanto, o PAD4 apresentou correlação positiva com a concentração plasmática de ureia (r=0,269; p=0,007) e creatinina (r=0,284; p=0,004). A concentração de PAD4 e os polimorfismos da PADI4 também não foram associados à TRS e à mortalidade em pacientes com Saki. CONCLUSÕES: A concentração de PAD4 e seus polimorfismos não foram associados ao desenvolvimento de Saki, à necessidade de TRS ou à mortalidade em pacientes com choque séptico. No entanto, as concentrações de PAD4 foram associadas às concentrações de creatinina e ureia nesses pacientes.

Euterpe Oleracea Mart. (Açaí) Reduces Oxidative Stress and Improves Energetic Metabolism in Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats / Euterpe Oleracea Mart. (Açaí) Reduz o Estresse Oxidativo e Melhora o Metabolismo Energético da Lesão de Isquemia-Reperfusão Miocárdica Em Ratos

Abstract Background: Euterpe oleracea Mart. (açaí) is a fruit with high antioxidant capacity and could be an adjuvant strategy to attenuate ischemia-reperfusion injury. Objective: To evaluate the influence of açaí in global ischemia-reperfusion model in rats. Methods: Wistar rats were assigned to 2 groups: Control (C: receiving standard chow; n = 9) and Açaí (A: receiving standard chow supplemented with 5% açaí; n = 10). After six weeks, the animals were subjected to the global ischemia-reperfusion protocol and an isolated heart study to evaluate left ventricular function. Level of significance adopted: 5%. Results: There was no difference between the groups in initial body weight, final body weight and daily feed intake. Group A presented lower lipid hydroperoxide myocardial concentration and higher catalase activity, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase than group C. We also observed increased myocardial activity of b-hydroxyacyl coenzyme-A dehydrogenase, pyruvate dehydrogenase, citrate synthase, complex I, complex II and ATP synthase in the A group as well as lower activity of the lactate dehydrogenase and phosphofructokinase enzymes. The systolic function was similar between the groups, and the A group presented poorer diastolic function than the C group. We did not observe any difference between the groups in relation to myocardial infarction area, total and phosphorylated NF-kB, total and acetylated FOXO1, SIRT1 and Nrf-2 protein expression. Conclusion: despite improving energy metabolism and attenuating oxidative stress, açai supplementation did not decrease the infarcted area or improve left ventricular function in the global ischemia-reperfusion model.

Resumo Fundamento: Euterpe oleracea Mart. (açaí) é uma fruta com alta capacidade antioxidante e pode ser uma estratégia adjuvante para atenuar a lesão de isquemia-reperfusão. Objetivo: Avaliar a influência do açaí no modelo global de isquemia-reperfusão em ratos. Metodologia: Ratos Wistar foram divididos em 2 grupos: Controle (C: recebendo ração padrão; n = 9) e Açaí (A: recebendo ração padrão suplementada com 5% de açaí; n = 10). Após seis semanas, os animais foram submetidos ao protocolo global de isquemia-reperfusão e a estudo do coração isolado para avaliar a função ventricular esquerda. Nível de significância adotado: 5%. Resultados: Não houve diferença entre os grupos quanto ao peso corporal inicial e final, e a ingestão diária de ração. O grupo A apresentou menor concentração miocárdica de hidroperóxido lipídico e maior atividade de catalase, superóxido dismutase e glutationa peroxidase do que o grupo C. Também observamos aumento da atividade miocárdica da b-hidroxiacil coenzima-A desidrogenase, piruvato desidrogenase, citrato sintase, complexo I, complexo II e ATP sintase no grupo A, bem como menor atividade das enzimas lactato desidrogenase e fosfofructoquinase. A função sistólica foi semelhante entre os grupos, e o grupo A apresentou função diastólica pior que C. Não foram observadas diferenças entre os grupos em relação à área de infarto do miocárdio, e expressão proteica de NF-kB total e fosforilado, e das proteínas FOXO1, SIRT1 e Nrf-2. Conclusão: apesar de melhorar o metabolismo energético e atenuar o estresse oxidativo, a suplementação de açaí não diminuiu a área infartada nem melhorou a função ventricular esquerda no modelo global de isquemia-reperfusão.

Performance of cardiovascular risk scores in mortality prediction ten years after Acute Coronary Syndromes

SUMMARY BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of the Framingham risk score (FRS) and risk score by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (SR ACC/AHA) in predicting mortality of patients ten years after acute coronary syndrome (ACS). METHODS This is a retrospective cohort study that included patients aged ≥ 18 years with ACS who were hospitalized at the Coronary Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Botucatu Medical School Hospital from January 2005 to December of 2006. RESULTS A total of 447 patients were evaluated. Of these, 118 were excluded because the mortality in 10 years was not obtained. Thus, 329 patients aged 62.9 ± 13.0 years were studied. Among them, 58.4% were men, and 44.4% died within ten years of hospitalization. The median FRS was 16 (14-18) %, and the ACC/AHA RS was 18.5 (9.1-31.6). Patients who died had higher values of both scores. However, when we classified patients at high cardiovascular risk, only the ACC/AHA RS was associated with mortality (p <0.001). In the logistic regression analysis, both scores were associated with mortality at ten years (p <0.001). CONCLUSIONS Both FRS and SR ACC/AHA were associated with mortality. However, for patients classified as high risk, only the ACC/AHA RS was associated with mortality within ten years.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Avaliar a performance do escore de risco de Framingham (ERF) e do escore proposto pela American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ER ACC/AHA) em predizer a mortalidade em pacientes dez anos após síndrome coronariana aguda (SCA). MÉTODOS Trata-se de um estudo de coorte retrospectivo que incluiu pacientes com idade ≥18 anos, com SCA, que estiveram internados na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Coronariana (UTI) do Hospital das Clínicas de Botucatu, no período de janeiro de 2005 a dezembro de 2006. RESULTADOS Foram avaliados 447 pacientes. Destes, 118 foram excluídos, pois a mortalidade em dez anos não foi obtida. Logo, 329 pacientes com idade de 62,9±13,0 anos foram estudados. Dentre eles, 58,4% eram homens e 44,4% morreram no período de dez anos após a internação. A mediana do ERF foi de 16 (14-18)%, e do ER ACC/AHA foi 18,5 (9,1-31,6)%. Os pacientes que evoluíram a óbito apresentaram maiores valores dos escores. No entanto, quando classificamos os pacientes em alto risco cardiovascular, apenas o ER ACC/AHA foi associado com a mortalidade (p<0,001). Na análise de regressão logística, ambos os escores foram associados com a mortalidade em dez anos (p<0,001). CONCLUSÕES Tanto o ERF quanto o ER ACC/AHA foram associados com a mortalidade. No entanto, para os pacientes classificados como alto risco, apenas o ER ACC/AHA foi associado com a mortalidade em dez anos.

Embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) cohort of Brazilian patients in a university hospital / Coorte brasileira de pacientes com AVC embólico de fonte indeterminada (ESUS) em um hospital universitário

ABSTRACT Embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) is an important group of cryptogenic strokes that are in evidence due recent ongoing trials. We reviewed medical records at discharge from the stroke unit of all patients who met ESUS criteria and attended our institution between February 2016 and July 2017. Among 550 stroke patients, 51 had ESUS. We found that hypertension (60%), diabetes mellitus (34%), and smoking (36%) were the most prevalent risk factors. The mean National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores were 7 at admission and 4 at discharge, while median scores on the modified Rankin scale were 0 and 2 at admission and discharge, respectively. Our sample had similar ages, risk factors prevalence and NIHSS scores at admission and discharge when compared with European and North American cohorts. Although a small cohort, our study suggests that the ESUS population is similar in countries with different health financing.

RESUMO Acidentes vasculares cerebrais (AVC) embólicos de fonte indeterminada (ESUS) é um grupo importante de pacientes com AVC criptogênico que estão em evidência devido a recentes ensaios clínicos. Foram revisados os prontuários médicos na alta da unidade de AVC de todos os pacientes que preencheram os critérios para ESUS atendidos em nossa instituição entre fevereiro de 2016 e julho de 2017. Entre 550 AVCs, 51 eram pacientes com ESUS. Hipertensão (60%), diabetes mellitus (34%) e tabagismo (36%) foram os fatores de risco mais prevalentes. Os escores médios do National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) foram 7 na admissão e 4 na alta, enquanto os escores médios na escala de Rankin modificada (mRs) foram 0 e 2 na admissão e alta, respectivamente. Nossa amostra teve idade, prevalência de fatores de risco, escores NIHSS na admissão e alta, quando comparados com coortes europeias e norte-americanas semelhantes. Apesar de ser uma pequena coorte, nosso estudo sugere que a população ESUS é semelhante em países com diferentes níveis de financiamento em saúde.

Anastomosis entre vasos ilíacos y obturadores en la región retropúbica: estudio en cadáveres / Anastomosis among iliac vessels and obturators in the retropubic region: study in cadavers

Introducción: En las cirugías de la región retropúbica, la sección o ruptura de la anastomosis puede causar graves hemorragias de difícil control. Nuestro objetivo fue verificar la presencia o no de anastomosis arterial o venosa entre los vasos ilíacos y obturadores en la región retropúbica. Materiales y Métodos: Treinta cadáveres (14 hombres/16 mujeres; 60% de raza blanca y 40%, no blanca). Después de la disección, se verificó si había anastomosis y su distancia de la sínfisis púbica. Resultados: El 13,3% no tenía comunicación y el 86,6% tenía algún tipo de anastomosis (p <0,01), la anastomosis venosa fue la más frecuente (p <0,05). La distancia promedio entre la anastomosis y la sínfisis púbica fue de 5,7 cm. Al comparar el sexo, la anastomosis y el lado, el 57% de los hombres presentaba anastomosis en ambos lados, y el 81% y 88% de las mujeres la tenían en el lado derecho e izquierdo, respectivamente (p <0,05). Cuando se comparó la presencia de anastomosis con el lado, el 70% estaba en el derecho y el 73%, en el izquierdo (p >0,05). El 72% de los blancos y el 67% de raza no blanca tenían anastomosis (p >0,05). Conclusiones: La presencia de anastomosis es más frecuente que la ausencia y no existe diferencia significativa en cuanto al lado. Está localizada, en promedio, a 5,7 cm de la sínfisis púbica y la venosa es significativamente más frecuente. Es significativamente más frecuente en las mujeres. No hay diferencia estadística en cuanto a la presencia de anastomosis entre la raza blanca y no blanca. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

Introduction: During surgical interventions, section or rupture of the anastomosis may cause severe difficult-to-control bleeding. The aim of this study was to verify the presence or absence of arterial or venous anastomosis among iliac and obturator vessels in the retropubic region. Methods: Thirty cadavers (14 men/16 women; 60% white and 40% non-white). After dissection, the presence of anastomosis and its distance from the pubic symphysis were verified. Results: The 13.3% presented no communication and 86.6% presented some type of anastomosis (p<0.01). Venous anastomosis was more frequent (p<0.05). The mean distance from anastomosis to pubic symphysis was 5.7 cm. Regarding sex and side, 57% of male specimens presented anastomosis on both sides, while 81% and 88% of women had on the right and left side, respectively (p<0.05). Seventy percent of specimens had anastomosis on the right side and 73% on the left (p>0.05). Anastomosis was observed in 72% of whites and 67% of non-whites. Conclusions: Presence of anastomosis is more frequent than its absence, and there is no significant difference regarding side. It is located at 5.7 cm from the pubic symphysis and venous anastomosis is significantly more frequent. Anastomosis is significantly more frequent in females. There is no statistically significant difference between white and non-white races. Level of Evidence: IV

Phase angle is associated with the length of ICU stay in patients with non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the associations between phase angle (PhA), sarcopenia, and the length of stay (LOS) in the coronary intensive care unit (ICU) in patients with non-ST acute coronary syndrome(NSTE-ACS).Methods: This was a prospective observational study that evaluated 80 patients with NSTE-ACS over the age of18 years, admitted to the ICU from January to June 2014. Upon admission, the patients'demographic information was recorded. Handgrip strength and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) were performed, and blood samples were taken within the first 72 h of admission. All of the patients were followed during their ICU stays. Results: We evaluated 80 patients, five were excluded due to impossibility of assessing handgrip strength, and seven patients were not subjected to BIA. Thus, 68 patients with a mean age of 63.3 ± 13.1 years were included in the analysis. Among these patients, 60.1% were male, 27.9% of the patients had sarcopenia, 8.8% had LOSs≥8 days, and median phase angle was 6.5 (6.1­7.3)°. Multiple logistic regression adjusted for age and gender revealed tha PhA was not associated with the presence of sarcopenia. Additionally, PhA (OR 0.337; CI 95% 0.118­0.961;p= 0.04)but not sarcopenia (OR 0.517; CI 95% 0.055­4.879;p= 0.56) was associated with an increased LOS. Conclusions: PhA is associated with LOS in patients with NSTE-ACS. Additionally, there was no association between PhA and sarcopenia.

Impact of coronary intensive care unit in treatment of myocardial infarction / Impacto da unidade coronariana no tratamento do infarto do miocárdio

Summary Introduction: The mortality rate attributed to ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) has decreased in the world. However, this disease is still responsible for high costs for health systems. Several factors could decrease mortality in these patients, including implementation of cardiac intensive care units (CICU). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of CICU implementation on prescribed recommended treatments and mortality 30 days after STEMI. Method: We performed a retrospective study with patients admitted to CICU between 2005 and 2006 (after group) and between 2000 and 2002, before CICU implementation (before group). Results: The after group had 101 patients, while the before group had 143 patients. There were no differences in general characteristics between groups. We observed an increase in angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, clopidogrel and statin prescriptions after CICU implementation. We did not find differences regarding number of patients submitted to reperfusion therapy; however, there was an increase in primary percutaneous angioplasty compared with thrombolytic therapy in the after group. There was no difference in 30-day mortality (before: 10.5%; after: 8.9%; p=0.850), but prescription of recommended treatments was high in both groups. Prescription of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and beta-blocker decreased mortality risk by 4.4 and 4.9 times, respectively. Conclusion: CICU implementation did not reduce mortality after 30 days in patients with STEMI; however, it increased the prescription of standard treatment for these patients.

Resumo Introdução: Apesar da diminuição da mortalidade por infarto agudo do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST (IAM-ST) no mundo, a doença ainda acarreta elevados custos e morbidade. Muitas medidas contribuem para a redução da mortalidade, dentre elas a criação de unidades intensivas coronarianas (UCO). Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto da criação de uma UCO na prescrição de tratamentos preconizados e na mortalidade em 30 dias em pacientes com IAM-ST. Método: Foi realizado estudo retrospectivo e foram coletados dados de prontuários de pacientes internados na UCO de 2005 a 2006 (grupo depois). Esses dados foram comparados com dados do serviço de 2000 a 2002, previamente à criação da UCO (grupo antes). Resultados: Havia 101 e 143 pacientes nos grupos depois e antes, respectivamente. Não houve diferenças em relação às características populacionais e às características do infarto entre os períodos. Observamos aumento na prescrição de iECA, clopidogrel e estatinas. Apesar da ausência de mudanças no número de pacientes que receberam terapia de reperfusão, houve aumento de angioplastias primárias em detrimento ao uso de trombolíticos no período posterior à criação da UCO. Não observamos diminuição da mortalidade em 30 dias após IAM-ST (antes: 10,5%; depois: 8,9%; p=0,850), mas a prescrição de tratamentos preconizados foi alta em ambos os períodos. O uso de iECA e de betabloqueador diminuiu o risco de morte em 4,4 e 4,9 vezes, respectivamente. Conclusão: Em pacientes com IAM-ST, a criação da UCO não reduziu a mortalidade em 30 dias, mas houve aumento na prescrição de tratamentos preconizados.

Vitamin D role in smoking women and cardiac remodeling

Background: The objective of the study is to evaluate the influence of serum vitamin D concentrations and smoking status in cardiac structure and function. Methods: The participants of this study were healthy women smokers (n = 18, mean age 52.8 years), ex-smokers ( n = 18, mean age 51.7 years), and never smokers ( n = 19, mean age 44.4 years). All participants underwent assessment of body composition, dietary intake, sun exposure frequency, vitamin D serum determination, and echocardiographic assessment. All data underwent statistical analysis. Results: The three groups were classified as overweight. The group of ex-smokers showed significantly higher vitamin D serum concentrations. Smoker group showed a higher posterior wall thickness (PW), left ventricular mass, and left ventricular mass index (LVMI). We identified positive correlations between LVMI and smoking history, PW and vitamin D serum, and body mass index and time of smoking history. Multiple linear regressions showed positive association of smoking history and LVMI and PW, also that serum vitamin D has a positive association with PW. PW was associated with smoking history and serum vitamin D, showing a deleterious effect on the heart of both variables. Conclusions: Smoking habit in adult women was associated with cardiac remodeling, and excess of vitamin Dis associated with the action of smoking on cardiac variables. Thus, higher serum vitamin D values have a deleterious effect on the heart in this model.

Roles of the Taql and Bsml vitamin D receptor gene polymorphisms in hospital mortality of burn patients

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the roles of the Taql and Bsml vitamin D receptor gene polymorphisms in hospital mortality of burn patients. METHODS: In total, 105 consecutive burn injury patients over 18 years in age who were admitted to the Burn Unit of Bauru State Hospital from January to December 2013 were prospectively evaluated. Upon admission, patient demographic information was recorded and a blood sample was taken for biochemical analysis to identify the presence of the Taql(rs731236) and Bsml(rs1544410) polymorphisms. All of the patients were followed over their hospital stay and mortality was recorded. RESULTS: Eighteen of the patients did not sign the informed consent form, and there were technical problems with genotype analysis for 7 of the patients. Thus, 80 patients (mean age, 42.5±16.1 years) were included in the final analysis. In total, 60% of the patients were male, and 16.3% died during the hospital stay. The genotype frequencies for the Taql polymorphism were 51.25% TT, 41.25% TC and 7.50% CC; for the Bsml polymorphism, they were 51.25% GG, 42.50% GA and 6.25% AA. In logistic regression analysis, after adjustments for age, gender and total body surface burn area, there were no associations between the Taql (OR: 1.575; CI95%: 0.148-16.745; p=0.706) or Bsml (OR: 1.309; CI95%: 0.128-13.430; p=0.821) polymorphisms and mortality for the burn patients. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that the Taql and Bsml vitamin D receptor gene polymorphisms are not associated with hospital mortality of burn patients.

Pentoxifylline Attenuates Cardiac Remodeling Induced by Tobacco Smoke Exposure / A Pentoxifilina Atenua a Remodelação Cardíaca Induzida pela Exposição á Fumaça de Cigarros

Abstract Background: Tobacco smoke exposure is an important risk factor for cardiac remodeling. Under this condition, inflammation, oxidative stress, energy metabolism abnormalities, apoptosis, and hypertrophy are present. Pentoxifylline has anti‑inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, anti-thrombotic and anti-proliferative properties. Objective: The present study tested the hypothesis that pentoxifylline would attenuate cardiac remodeling induced by smoking. Methods: Wistar rats were distributed in four groups: Control (C), Pentoxifylline (PX), Tobacco Smoke (TS), and PX-TS. After two months, echocardiography, invasive blood pressure measurement, biochemical, and histological studies were performed. The groups were compared by two-way ANOVA with a significance level of 5%. Results: TS increased left atrium diameter and area, which was attenuated by PX. In the isolated heart study, TS lowered the positive derivate (+dp/dt), and this was attenuated by PX. The antioxidants enzyme superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase were decreased in the TS group; PX recovered these activities. TS increased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and decreased 3-hydroxyacyl Coenzyme A dehydrogenases (OH-DHA) and citrate synthase (CS). PX attenuated LDH, 3-OH-DHA and CS alterations in TS-PX group. TS increased IL-10, ICAM-1, and caspase-3. PX did not influence these variables. Conclusion: TS induced cardiac remodeling, associated with increased inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and changed energy metabolism. PX attenuated cardiac remodeling by reducing oxidative stress and improving cardiac bioenergetics, but did not act upon cardiac cytokines and apoptosis.

Resumo Fundamento: Exposição à fumaça de cigarros é um fator significativo de risco para a remodelação cardíaca. Nesta condição, estão presentes inflamação, estresse oxidativo, anormalidades do metabolismo energético, apoptose e hipertrofia. A pentoxifilina tem propriedades anti-inflamatórias, anti-apoptóticas, anti-trombóticas e anti-proliferativas. Objetivo: O presente estudo testou a hipótese de que a pentoxifilina atenuaria a remodelação cardíaca induzida pelo fumo. Métodos: Ratos Wistar foram distribuídos em quatro grupos: Controle (C), Pentoxifilina (PX), Fumaça de Cigarro (FC), e PX-FC. Depois de dois meses, foram feitos ecocardiografia, medição de pressão arterial invasiva e estudos bioquímicos e histológicos. Os grupos foram comparados por ANOVA de duas vias com nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: FC aumentou o diâmetro e a área do átrio esquerdo, o que foi atenuado pela PX. No estudo de coração isolado, FC diminuiu a derivada positiva (+dp/dt), o que foi atenuado por PX. Os antioxidantes enzima superóxido-dismutase e glutationa peroxidase foram reduzidos no grupo FC; PX recuperou essas atividades. FC aumentou o lactato desidrogenase (LDH) e reduziu as desidrogenases 3-hidroxiacil Coenzima A (OH-DHA) e citrato sintase (CS). PX atenuou alterações de LDH, 3-OH-DHA e CS no grupo PX-FC. FC aumentou IL-10, ICAM-1 e caspase-3. PX não teve influência nestas variáveis. Conclusão: FC induziu remodelação cardíaca, associada a um aumento de inflamação, estresse oxidativo, apoptose e metabolismo energético alterado. PX atenuou remodelação cardíaca, reduzindo estresse oxidativo e melhorando bioenergética cardíaca, mas não agiu nas citocinas cardíacas nem na apoptose.