Job stress and chronic low back pain: incidence, number of episodes, and severity in a 4-year follow-up of the ELSA-Brasil Musculoskeletal cohort.

ABSTRACT: We investigated the association between job stress, as assessed by the effort-reward imbalance model, and the incidence of chronic low back pain (CLBP) over a 4-year period. A total of 1733 participants from the ELSA-Brasil Musculoskeletal cohort, who were free from LBP at baseline (2012-2014), were included. Episodes of LBP in the past 30 days, intensity, and the presence of disability were investigated in annual telephone follow-ups (2015-2018). Chronic LBP was defined as episodes of LBP lasting >3 months with at least moderate intensity. We analyzed the incidence of at least one episode of CLBP (yes/no), the number of CLBP episodes (0, 1, ≥2), and CLBP severity/disability (absent, nondisabling, severe/disabling). The association between these outcomes and tertiles of the effort-to-reward ratio, as well as each dimension of the effort-reward imbalance model, was investigated using multinomial logistic and Poisson regression models adjusting for sociodemographic and occupational variables. The cumulative incidence of CLBP over 4 years was 24.8%. High effort-reward imbalance increased the chances of experiencing multiple CLBP episodes and severe/disabling CLBP by 67% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12-2.47) and 70% (95% CI: 1.14-2.53), respectively. High overcommitment increased the incidence of CLBP by 23% (95% CI: 1.01-1.50) and the chances of multiple CLBP episodes and severe/disabling CLBP by 67% (95% CI: 1.11-2.50) and 57% (95% CI: 1.05-2.34), respectively. These results indicate that exposure to job stress is associated with a higher incidence, a greater number of episodes, and increased severity of CLBP over a 4-year period. If this association is causal, measures aimed at reducing exposure to job stress are likely to alleviate the burden of CLBP.

Dynapenia and sarcopenia: association with the diagnosis, duration and complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus in ELSA-Brasil.

Sarcopenia (the loss of muscle mass, strength and skeletal muscle function) increases mortality and the risk of hospitalization in the older population. Although it is known that older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have a higher risk of dynapenia and sarcopenia, few studies have investigated these conditions in middle-aged populations. The objective of this study was to investigate whether T2DM, its duration, the presence of albuminuria, and glycemic control are associated with sarcopenia and its components in adults. The cross-sectional analysis was based on data from visit 2 of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (2012-2014). The 2018 European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People criteria were used to define dynapenia, low appendicular muscle mass (LAMM), and sarcopenia (absent/probable/confirmed). The explanatory variables were: T2DM; duration of T2DM; T2DM according to the presence of albuminuria; and glycemic control (HbA1C < 7%) among people with T2DM. A total of 12,132 participants (mean age = 55.5, SD: 8.9 years) were included. The odds ratio for LAMM was greater among those with T2DM, T2DM duration from 5 to 10 years, and T2DM without albuminuria. Chances of dynapenia were higher among those with T2DM, T2DM duration > 10 years, and T2DM with and without albuminuria. The variables T2DM, T2DM ≥ 10 years, and T2DM with albuminuria increased the odds of probable sarcopenia, and T2DM duration from 5 to 10 years increased the odds of confirmed sarcopenia. The results support the importance of frequently monitoring the musculoskeletal mass and strength of individuals with T2DM to prevent sarcopenia and related outcomes.

Obesity and the risk of multiple or severe frequent knee pain episodes: a 4-year follow-up of the ELSA-Brasil MSK cohort.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Knee pain is an important health problem due to its high prevalence, negative impact on daily activities and quality of life, and societal burden. While the link between excess weight and knee pain has been well-documented in the literature, many studies are limited to patients with osteoarthritis or use cross-sectional data. This longitudinal study investigated whether overweight and obesity were associated with the frequency and severity of frequent knee pain (FKP) episodes over 4 years in civil servants enrolled in the ELSA-Brasil MSK cohort. METHODS: Knee pain was assessed during baseline face-to-face interviews (2012-2014) and four yearly telephone follow-ups (2015-2019). Disabling FKP episodes or those of moderate to very severe intensity were classified as severe. Multinomial logistic regression models adjusted for confounders were used to test for associations in two participant groups: those with knee pain at baseline (prognosis cohort) and those without knee pain (incidence cohort). RESULTS: A total of 2644 participants were included: 54.2% female, mean age 55.8 (SD 8.8) years. In the incidence cohort (n = 1896), obesity increased the risk of one (OR: 1.63; 95% CI 1.13-2.37) and multiple FKP episodes (OR: 2.61; 95% CI 1.71-3.97), as well as the risk of non-severe (OR: 1.72; 95% CI 1.04-2.84) and severe FKP episodes (OR: 2.10; 95% CI 1.50-2.95). In the prognosis cohort (n = 748), obesity increased the risk of multiple (OR: 2.54; 95% CI 1.60-4.05) and severe FKP episodes (OR: 2.31; 95% CI 1.49-3.59). Overweight presented the same trends but fell short of significance. CONCLUSIONS: These results provide further support that overweight and obesity are important contributors to the incidence and worsening of FKP, and that weight management must be prioritized in multidisciplinary knee pain prevention and treatment programs to reduce the burden of musculoskeletal disorders.

Dynapenia and sarcopenia: association with the diagnosis, duration and complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus in ELSA-Brasil / Dinapenia e sarcopenia: associação com o diagnóstico, duração e complicações de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 no ELSA-Brasil / Dinapenia y sarcopenia: asociación con el diagnóstico, duración y complicaciones de la diabetes mellitus tipo 2 en ELSA-Brasil

Abstract: Sarcopenia (the loss of muscle mass, strength and skeletal muscle function) increases mortality and the risk of hospitalization in the older population. Although it is known that older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have a higher risk of dynapenia and sarcopenia, few studies have investigated these conditions in middle-aged populations. The objective of this study was to investigate whether T2DM, its duration, the presence of albuminuria, and glycemic control are associated with sarcopenia and its components in adults. The cross-sectional analysis was based on data from visit 2 of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (2012-2014). The 2018 European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People criteria were used to define dynapenia, low appendicular muscle mass (LAMM), and sarcopenia (absent/probable/confirmed). The explanatory variables were: T2DM; duration of T2DM; T2DM according to the presence of albuminuria; and glycemic control (HbA1C < 7%) among people with T2DM. A total of 12,132 participants (mean age = 55.5, SD: 8.9 years) were included. The odds ratio for LAMM was greater among those with T2DM, T2DM duration from 5 to 10 years, and T2DM without albuminuria. Chances of dynapenia were higher among those with T2DM, T2DM duration > 10 years, and T2DM with and without albuminuria. The variables T2DM, T2DM ≥ 10 years, and T2DM with albuminuria increased the odds of probable sarcopenia, and T2DM duration from 5 to 10 years increased the odds of confirmed sarcopenia. The results support the importance of frequently monitoring the musculoskeletal mass and strength of individuals with T2DM to prevent sarcopenia and related outcomes.

Resumo: A sarcopenia (perda de massa muscular, força e função muscular esquelética) aumenta a mortalidade e o risco de hospitalização em idosos. Idosos com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DMT2) apresentam risco elevado de desenvolver dinapenia e sarcopenia, mas poucos estudos investigaram populações de meia-idade. O objetivo foi investigar se DMT2, sua duração, a presença de albuminúria e o controle glicêmico estão associados à sarcopenia e seus componentes em adultos. Análise transversal baseada nos dados da segunda visita do Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto (2012-2014). Os critérios do European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People [Grupo de Trabalho Europeu sobre Sarcopenia em Pessoas Idosas] de 2018 foram usados para definir dinapenia, baixa massa muscular apendicular e sarcopenia (ausente/provável/confirmada). As variáveis explicativas foram: DMT2; duração do DMT2; DMT2 de acordo com a presença de albuminúria; e controle glicêmico (HbA1c < 7%) entre pessoas com DMT2. Foram incluídos 12.132 participantes (idade média de 55,5; DP: 8,9 anos). A razão de chances para baixa massa muscular apendicular foi maior entre pessoas com DMT2, duração do DMT2 entre 5 e 10 anos e DMT2 sem albuminúria. As chances de dinapenia foram maiores entre pessoas com DMT2, duração do DMT2 > 10 anos e DMT2 com e sem albuminúria. DMT2, DMT2 ≥ 10 anos e DMT2 com albuminúria aumentaram as chances de sarcopenia provável e duração do DMT2 entre 5 e 10 anos aumentaram as chances de sarcopenia confirmada. Os resultados reforçam a importância do monitoramento frequente da massa e da força muscular em indivíduos com DMT2 para prevenir a sarcopenia e desfechos relacionados.

Resumen: La sarcopenia (pérdida de masa muscular, fuerza y función muscular esquelética) aumenta la mortalidad y el riesgo de hospitalización en ancianos. Los ancianos con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DMT2) presentan un mayor riesgo de sufrir dinapenia y sarcopenia, pero pocos estudios han investigado poblaciones de mediana edad. El objetivo fue investigar si la DMT2, su duración, la presencia de albuminuria y el control glucémico están asociados con la sarcopenia y sus componentes en adultos. Análisis transversal basado en los datos de la visita 2 del Estudio Longitudinal de Salud del Adulto en Brasil (2012-2014). Se utilizaron los criterios del European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People [Grupo de Trabajo Europeo sobre Sarcopenia en Personas Mayores] del 2018 para definir dinapenia, baja masa muscular apendicular y sarcopenia (ausente/probable/confirmada). Las variables explicativas fueron las siguientes: DMT2; duración de la DMT2; DMT2 según la presencia de albuminuria; y control glucémico (HbA1c < 7%) entre personas con DMT2. Se incluyeron 12.132 participantes (edad media = 55,5, DE: 8,9 años). La razón de probabilidades de masa muscular apendicular baja fue mayor entre personas con DMT2, duración de la DMT2 entre 5 y 10 años y DMT2 sin albuminuria. Las probabilidades de dinapenia fueron mayores entre las personas con DMT2, duración de la DMT2 > 10 años y DMT2 con y sin albuminuria. Las condiciones de DMT2, DMT2 ≥ 10 años y DMT2 con albuminuria aumentaron las probabilidades de sarcopenia probable y la duración de la DMT2 entre 5 y 10 años las probabilidades de sarcopenia confirmada. Los resultados refuerzan la importancia del monitoreo frecuente de la masa y de la fuerza musculoesquelética en individuos con DMT2 para prevenir la sarcopenia y los desenlaces relacionados.

Development of a convolutional neural network for diagnosing osteoarthritis, trained with knee radiographs from the ELSA-Brasil Musculoskeletal / Desenvolvimento de rede neural convolucional para o diagnóstico radiográfico de osteoartrite dos joelhos no ELSA-Brasil Musculoesquelético

Abstract Objective: To develop a convolutional neural network (CNN) model, trained with the Brazilian "Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto Musculoesquelético" (ELSA-Brasil MSK, Longitudinal Study of Adult Health, Musculoskeletal) baseline radiographic examinations, for the automated classification of knee osteoarthritis. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study carried out with 5,660 baseline posteroanterior knee radiographs from the ELSA-Brasil MSK database (5,660 baseline posteroanterior knee radiographs). The examinations were interpreted by a radiologist with specific training, and the calibration was as established previously. Results: The CNN presented an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.866 (95% CI: 0.842-0.882). The model can be optimized to achieve, not simultaneously, maximum values of 0.907 for accuracy, 0.938 for sensitivity, and 0.994 for specificity. Conclusion: The proposed CNN can be used as a screening tool, reducing the total number of examinations evaluated by the radiologists of the study, and as a double-reading tool, contributing to the reduction of possible interpretation errors.

Resumo Objetivo: Desenvolver um modelo computacional - rede neural convolucional (RNC) - treinado com radiografias da linha de base do Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto Musculoesquelético (ELSA-Brasil Musculoesquelético), para a classificação automática de osteoartrite dos joelhos. Materiais e Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo transversal abrangendo todos os exames da linha de base do ELSA-Brasil Musculoesquelético (5.660 radiografias dos joelhos em incidência posteroanterior). Os exames foram interpretados por médico radiologista com treinamento específico e calibração previamente publicada. Resultados: A RNC desenvolvida apresentou área sob a curva característica de operação do receptor de 0,866 (IC 95%: 0,842-0,882). O modelo pode ser calibrado para alcançar, não simultaneamente, valores máximos de 0,907 para acurácia, 0,938 para sensibilidade e 0,994 para especificidade. Conclusão: A RNC desenvolvida pode ser utilizada como ferramenta de triagem, reduzindo o número total de exames avaliados pelos radiologistas do estudo, e/ou como ferramenta de segunda leitura, contribuindo com a redução de possíveis erros de interpretação.

Uncovering the Relationship Between Statins and Muscle Problems in the ELSA-Brasil MSK Cohort.

PURPOSE: To investigate the association between statins and muscle problems in a highly diverse sample of Brazilian civil servants. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional data analysis at baseline of the ELSA-Brasil MSK cohort. Pain was identified through self-reported symptoms in large muscle groups (lower back and/or hips/thighs). Muscle strength was assessed using the five-times-sit-to-stand (FTSTS) and handgrip tests, with weakness defined as the lowest and highest quintiles of age- and sex-stratified handgrip strength and FTSTS performance time, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to investigate the association between statin use and muscle pain and weakness. Secondary analyses explored the impact of different types of statins and their duration of use on the response variables. RESULTS: A total of 2156 participants (mean age 55.6 ± SD 8.9, 52.8% women) were included, of whom 21.1% were taking statins and 25.1% reported muscle pain. We found no significant association between statin use and muscle problems. Secondary analysis on different types of statins revealed an association between atorvastatin and muscle weakness, as measured by the five-times-sit-to-stand test (OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.12-3.37), but not by the handgrip test (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.29-1.42). No evidence was found to support a link between the duration of statin treatment and muscle problems. CONCLUSIONS: This study challenges previous claims of an efficacy-effectiveness gap between experimental and observational literature on statins. The findings indicate that statin use does not contribute to muscular problems.

Ultra-processed foods: Cross-sectional and longitudinal association with uric acid and hyperuricemia in ELSA-Brasil.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Food intake influences uric acid (UA) levels and hyperuricemia (HU), but evidence on the role of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are scarce. The association between UPFs consumption and (1) HU prevalence and UA levels; (2) HU cumulative incidence; and (3) UA level change over a 4-year period was investigated. METHODS AND RESULTS: Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses were performed using baseline (2008-2010, aged 35-74 years) and second visit (2012-2014) data from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil). Participants with glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m2, bariatric surgery, implausible caloric intake, and using urate-lowering therapy (ULT) at baseline were excluded (all analyses). Participants with HU at baseline were excluded from longitudinal analyses. UPFs consumption was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and categorized by the NOVA classification system (100 g/day). HU was defined as UA≥6.8 mg/dL. Linear, logistic, and mixed-effect linear regressions investigated the associations between UPFs consumption and UA/HU, adjusted for covariates. The final samples included 13,923 (cross-sectional) and 10,517 (longitudinal) individuals. The prevalence of HU was 18.7%, and the cumulative incidence was 4.9%. Greater UPFs consumption was associated with a greater prevalence of HU (OR:1.025 95%CI: 1.006; 1.044) and higher UA levels (ß:0.024 95%CI: 0.016; 0.032). Every additional consumption of 100 g/day of UPFs raised the 4-year cumulative incidence of HU by 5.6% (95%CI: 1.021; 1.092). However, UPFs were not associated with the pace of UA level changes during the study period. CONCLUSION: The present study shows that greater UPFs consumption is associated with another deleterious health consequence: higher UA levels and the risk of having HU.

Development of a convolutional neural network for diagnosing osteoarthritis, trained with knee radiographs from the ELSA-Brasil Musculoskeletal.

Objective: To develop a convolutional neural network (CNN) model, trained with the Brazilian "Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto Musculoesquelético" (ELSA-Brasil MSK, Longitudinal Study of Adult Health, Musculoskeletal) baseline radiographic examinations, for the automated classification of knee osteoarthritis. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study carried out with 5,660 baseline posteroanterior knee radiographs from the ELSA-Brasil MSK database (5,660 baseline posteroanterior knee radiographs). The examinations were interpreted by a radiologist with specific training, and the calibration was as established previously. Results: The CNN presented an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.866 (95% CI: 0.842-0.882). The model can be optimized to achieve, not simultaneously, maximum values of 0.907 for accuracy, 0.938 for sensitivity, and 0.994 for specificity. Conclusion: The proposed CNN can be used as a screening tool, reducing the total number of examinations evaluated by the radiologists of the study, and as a double-reading tool, contributing to the reduction of possible interpretation errors.

Objetivo: Desenvolver um modelo computacional - rede neural convolucional (RNC) - treinado com radiografias da linha de base do Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto Musculoesquelético (ELSA-Brasil Musculoesquelético), para a classificação automática de osteoartrite dos joelhos. Materiais e Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo transversal abrangendo todos os exames da linha de base do ELSA-Brasil Musculoesquelético (5.660 radiografias dos joelhos em incidência posteroanterior). Os exames foram interpretados por médico radiologista com treinamento específico e calibração previamente publicada. Resultados: A RNC desenvolvida apresentou área sob a curva característica de operação do receptor de 0,866 (IC 95%: 0,842-0,882). O modelo pode ser calibrado para alcançar, não simultaneamente, valores máximos de 0,907 para acurácia, 0,938 para sensibilidade e 0,994 para especificidade. Conclusão: A RNC desenvolvida pode ser utilizada como ferramenta de triagem, reduzindo o número total de exames avaliados pelos radiologistas do estudo, e/ou como ferramenta de segunda leitura, contribuindo com a redução de possíveis erros de interpretação.

Job stress and chronic and widespread musculoskeletal pain: a cross-sectional analysis from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health Musculoskeletal.

ABSTRACT: Musculoskeletal pain is a global health concern, and work-related psychosocial stress might be a potential contributing factor. This cross-sectional study investigates whether job stress is associated with chronic and widespread musculoskeletal pain in 2051 Brazilian active civil servants included in the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health Musculoskeletal (ELSA-Brasil MSK). Job stress was assessed using the Effort-Reward Imbalance (ERI) questionnaire. Associations between ERI domains, categorized into tertiles, and chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) at any site and per number of affected sites (0, 1-2, ≥3-multisite pain) and body regions (0, 1-2, 3-generalized pain), were investigated using binary and multinomial logistic regression, adjusted for sociodemographic, occupational, and health covariates. The prevalence of CMP at any site, multisites, and generalized regions was 52.9%, 18.2%, and 9.5%, respectively. After adjustments, the lower the reward and the greater the overcommitment, the higher the odds of CMP at any site. The ERI domains were more strongly associated with multisite and generalized CMP than with CMP at any site. Multisite CMP was associated with lower reward and with greater effort, overcommitment, and effort-reward imbalance ratio. Chronic musculoskeletal pain according to body regions, especially generalized pain, was also associated with ERI domains effort (OR = 2.06; 95%CI = 1.33-3.21), overcommitment (OR = 3.44; 95%CI = 2.20-5.39), and effort-reward imbalance ratio (OR = 2.06; 95%CI = 1.30-3.27). Results reveal an association between job stress not only with CMP at any site but notably with the pain spread to other body sites or regions. Our findings suggest that lowering stress at work and discouraging overcommitment may help reduce the CMP burden, including reduction of CMP spread from one site or region of the body to another.

Implementation of Best-Evidence Osteoarthritis Care: Perspectives on Challenges for, and Opportunities From, Low and Middle-Income Countries.

The "Joint Effort Initiative" (JEI) is an international consortium of clinicians, researchers, and consumers under the auspices of the Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI). The JEI was formed with a vision to improve the implementation of coordinated programs of best evidence osteoarthritis care globally. To better understand some of the issues around osteoarthritis care in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), the JEI invited clinician researcher representatives from South Africa, Brazil, and Nepal to discuss their perspectives on challenges and opportunities to implementing best-evidence osteoarthritis care at the OARSI World Pre-Congress Workshop. We summarize and discuss the main themes of the presentations in this paper. The challenges to implementing evidence-based osteoarthritis care identified in LMICs include health inequities, unaffordability of osteoarthritis management and the failure to recognize osteoarthritis as an important disease. Fragmented healthcare services and a lack of health professional knowledge and skills are also important factors affecting osteoarthritis care in LMICs. We discuss considerations for developing strategies to improve osteoarthritis care in LMICs. Existing opportunities may be leveraged to facilitate the implementation of best-evidence osteoarthritis care. We also discuss strategies to support the implementation, such as the provision of high-quality healthcare professional and consumer education, and systemic healthcare reforms.

Different Components of Subjective Well-being Are Associated With Chronic Nondisabling and Disabling Knee Pain: ELSA-Brasil Musculoskeletal Cohort.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Chronic knee pain (CKP) is a common pain complaint in older adults that is often associated with disability. This study investigated the relationship between 2 components of subjective well-being (depressive symptoms and life satisfaction) and CKP phenotypes based on the presence of knee disability. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed at baseline of ELSA-Brasil Musculoskeletal cohort (2012-2014). Chronic knee pain phenotypes were identified according to the presence of CKP that was accompanied or not by disability, which was assessed by a question on pain-related limitations to perform everyday activities (overall), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index's physical function subscale (daily tasks) and 5-times sit-to-stand test (objective). Depressive symptoms were assessed by the Clinical Interview Schedule-Revised and life satisfaction by the Satisfaction With Life Scale. Multinomial logistic regressions used CKP phenotypes as response variables (no CKP as reference). RESULTS: The sample comprised 2898 participants (mean age, 55.9 ± 8.9 years; 52.9% were female). After adjustments for sociodemographic and clinical factors, depressive symptoms were associated with daily tasks disabling CKP (odds ratio [OR], 2.30; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.45-3.66) and objective disabling CKP (OR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.29-2.93) and with nondisabling CKP for the overall disability measure (OR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.17-2.04). Life satisfaction was inversely associated with all phenotypes in fully adjusted models, with strongest magnitude of associations observed for disabling CKP. CONCLUSIONS: The association of depressive symptoms and life satisfaction with CKP phenotypes suggest the need to address both negative and positive components of subjective well-being in the assessment of individuals with knee complaints.

Cosmetic camouflage improves health-related quality of life in women with systemic lupus erythematosus and permanent skin damage: A controlled intervention study.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of cosmetic camouflage in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and permanent facial skin damage. METHODS: This is a randomized controlled clinical trial (Universal Trial Number: U1111-1210-2554e) with SLE women from outpatients using ACR/1997 and/or SLICC/2012 criteria, aged over 18 years old, with modified SLEDAI 2k < 4 and permanent facial skin damage, recruited in two tertiary centers to use cosmetic camouflage (n = 36) or no intervention (n = 20). Endpoints were score variations in SLE Quality of Life (SLEQoL) (total and each domain), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), Rosenberg self-esteem scale and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), after daily use of cosmetic camouflage for 12 +/-2 weeks (Phase I), "as needed" use of cosmetic camouflage for another 12 +/-2 weeks (Phase II), and during total follow up (24 +/-2 weeks). Univariate and multivariate linear regressions were conducted by protocol analysis. RESULTS: Both groups were similar at baseline regarding age, disease duration, socio-demographic, clinical, laboratory and treatment characteristics. The comparison of score variations between intervention and control groups showed an independent HRQoL improvement in total SLEQoL score after using cosmetic camouflage in Phase I [ß -27.56 (CI 95% -47.86 to -7.27) p = 0.009] and total follow up [ß -28.04 (CI 95% -48.65 to -7.44) p = 0.09], specifically in mood, self-image and physical functioning domains. Also, there was an improvement in DLQI scores during Phase I [ß -7.65 (CI 95% -12.31 to -3.00) p = 0.002] and total follow up [ß -8.97(CI95% -12.99 to -4.94) p < 0.001). Scores for depression [ß -1.92 (CI 95% -3.67 to -0.16) p = 0.033], anxiety [ß -2.87 (CI 95% -5.67 to -0.07] p = 0.045] and self-esteem [ß 2.79 (CI 95% 0.13 to 5.46) p = 0.041] improved considering the total follow up. No significant changes occurred in the control group scores. CONCLUSION: The use of cosmetic camouflage improved the HRQoL in female SLE patients with permanent facial skin damage.

Intake of selected foods and beverages and serum uric acid levels in adults: ELSA-Brasil (2008-2010).

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between the intake of selected food groups and beverages and serum uric acid (UA). DESIGN: Cross-sectional study using the baseline data (2008-2010) from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil). Food intake was assessed by food frequency questionnaire with 114 items. Linear and logistic regressions investigated the associations between the daily intake of each food group (servings/d) and UA (mg/dl) and hyperuricemia (UA ≥ 6·8 mg/dl), respectively. All the analyses were adjusted for potential confounders, energy intake and all food groups. SETTING: Teaching and research institutions from six Brazilians states. SUBJECTS: The participants were 14 320 active and retired civil servants, aged 35-74 years. RESULTS: Higher intake of dairy products was associated with lower serum UA levels in both sexes, with a statistical dose-response gradient. High meat intake was associated with high UA only in women, and high intake of organ meats, in men. Intake of fish and fruits, vegetables and legumes were not associated with serum UA. In men, moderate and high intake of alcoholic beverages, specifically beer and spirits, but not wine, increased UA. In women, only high intake of alcoholic beverages, specifically beer, was associated with increased serum UA. Similar associations were seen for hyperuricemia. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest a potential beneficial role of dairy products consumption on UA levels. The association between alcohol intake and UA differed according to type of beverage and between sexes. Results reinforce the need to consider the whole diet in the analysis and to conduct sex stratified analysis.

Performance of distinct knee osteoarthritis classification criteria in the ELSA-Brasil musculoskeletal study.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the performance of different knee osteoarthritis (OA) classification criteria in a subsample of subjects of ELSA-Brasil Musculoskeletal cohort (ELSA-Brasil MSK) in comparison with the clinical-radiographic evaluation of an experienced rheumatologist. METHOD: A cross-sectional study of the diagnostic accuracy of different knee OA classification criteria: radiographic OA, symptomatic OA, clinical and clinical-radiographic criteria of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR), and the definition proposed by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), UK. The study also evaluated some alternative definitions of OA including a combination of criteria. In total, 250 subjects participated. Only one knee per subject was included. When both or none of the knees were affected, one knee was randomly selected for analysis. OA prevalence, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and accuracy were presented (CI 95%; α = 5%). RESULTS: The mean age was 56.1 years (SD = 8.7), 48.8% female, and 39.2% presented knee OA according to the rheumatologist. The sensitivity and the specificity of radiographic OA were 51% and 96.7%, respectively, while the NICE definition showed 57.0% and 76.3%, respectively. The other OA criteria showed good levels of specificity, but the levels of sensitivity were below 30%. Considering NICE and/or X-ray result in combination, the sensitivity increased (73.4%), while the specificity reduced slightly (73.0%) in relation to the original NICE definition. CONCLUSIONS: Radiographic OA showed the best performance, followed by NICE definition, especially in combination with X-ray results.

Recognition and control of hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients have a high risk for cardiovascular events, but few studies have evaluated the recognition and none have evaluated the control of cardiovascular risk factors (RF) in SLE patients. The study aims to describe the recognition and control frequencies of systemic arterial hypertension (SAH), dyslipidemia, and diabetes mellitus (DM) in SLE patients. Of the female patients with SLE, 137 answered a questionnaire focused on general knowledge of the RF for coronary artery disease (CAD) and on recognition of the risk factors that they possess. The patient's information collected on a structured medical record was reviewed to evaluate the RF control. The mean age was 29.1 (9.6) years. Seventy patients had SAH; 85.7% recognized their condition and 71.4% had desirable blood pressure (BP) control (< 140 × 90 mmHg). From a group of 63 patients with dyslipidemia, 68.3% recognized that they had dyslipidemia and 69.8% had desirable LDL-cholesterol (< 130 mg/dL). Sixteen patients had DM; 87.5% admitted being diabetic and 50.0% had desirable glycemic control (HbA1C < 7%). Most patients were aware of presenting SAH, DM, or dyslipidemia, and the recognition frequency was higher in comparison to general population. The SAH and dyslipidemia control frequencies were higher than that described for the general population.

Recognition and control of hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Absolute cardiovascular risk of an individual with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is greater when compared to the general population, and several factors have proven to be important for the development of coronary artery disease (CAD) in these patients, including factors related to the underlying disease, such as the systemic inflammatory response, drugs used in its treatment, and a higher prevalence of traditional risk factors for CAD. Our aim is to describe the recognition and control frequencies of systemic arterial hypertension (SAH), dyslipidemia, and diabetes mellitus (DM) in RA patients. Patients with RA answered a questionnaire focused on their general knowledge of the risk factors for CAD, as well as on the recognition of the risk factors that they possess. The patient's information, collected from a structured medical record, was reviewed to evaluate the control of risk factors. Hundred and thirty-four patients were included in the study. One patient was excluded due to the impossibility of reviewing her medical records. Therefore, 133 patients remained in the study. Patients had a mean (SD) age of 57.3 (12.9) years. SAH was diagnosed in 88 subjects, with a recognition frequency of 89.8%, and 63.3% had desirable blood pressure control. Seventy-two patients were diagnosed with dyslipidemia; 68.1% recognized that they had dyslipidemia and 69.4% achieved desirable LDL-c control. Twenty-two patients had DM; 90.9% admitted being diabetic and 40.9% had desirable glycemic control. The frequencies of the CAD risk factor recognition and control were high in comparison to those described for the general population.

Omega-3 fatty acids, inflammatory status and biochemical markers of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a pilot study / Ácidos graxos ômega-3, estado inflamatório e marcadores bioquímicos de pacientes com lúpus eritematoso sistêmico: estudo piloto

Abstract Background: Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids reduce the concentrations of eicosanoids, cytokines, chemokines, C-reactive protein (CRP) and other inflammatory mediators. Objective: To investigate the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on circulating levels of inflammatory mediators and biochemical markers in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods: Experimental clinical study (clinical trial: NCT02524795); 49 women with SLE (ACR1982/1997) were randomized: 22 to the omega-3 group (daily intake of 1080 mg EPA + 200 mg DHA, for 12 weeks) and 27 to the control group. The inflammatory mediators and biochemical markers at T0 and T1 in omega-3 group were compared using Wilcoxon test. U-Mann-Whitney test was used to compare variations of measured variables [ΔV = pre-treatment (T0) − post-treatment (T1) concentrations] between groups. p < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The median (interquartile range - IQR) of age was 37 (29-48) years old, of disease duration was 7 (4-13) years, and of SLEDAI-2K was 1 (0-2). The median (IQR) of variation in CRP levels between the two groups showed a decrease in omega-3 group while there was an increase in control group (p = 0.008). The serum concentrations of IL-6 and IL-10, leptin and adiponectin did not change after a 12 week treatment. Conclusions: Supplementation with omega-3 had no impact on serum concentrations of IL-6, IL-10, leptin and adiponectin in women with SLE and low disease activity. There was a significant decrease of CRP levels as well as evidence that omega-3 may impact total and LDL-cholesterol.

Resumo Introdução: Estudos têm mostrado que os ácidos graxos ômega-3 reduzem as concentrações de eicosanoides, citocinas, quimiocinas, proteína C-reativa (PCR) e outros mediadores inflamatórios. Objetivo: Investigar os efeitos dos ácidos graxos ômega-3 sobre os níveis circulantes de mediadores inflamatórios e marcadores bioquímicos em mulheres com lúpus eritematoso sistêmico (LES). Métodos: Ensaio clínico randomizado (ensaio clínico: NCT02524795); randomizaram-se 49 mulheres com LES (ACR1982/1997): 22 para o grupo ômega-3 (dose diária de 1.080 mg de EPA + 200 mg de DHA durante 12 semanas) e 27 para o grupo controle. Os mediadores inflamatórios e marcadores bioquímicos em T0 e T1 no grupo ômega-3 foram comparados pelo teste de Wilcoxon. O teste U de Mann-Whitney foi usado para comparar variações das variáveis mensuradas [ΔV = concentrações pré-tratamento (T0) menos concentrações pós-tratamento (T1)] entre os grupos. Um p < 0,05 foi considerado significativo. Resultados: A mediana (intervalo interquartil-IIQ) da idade foi de 37 anos (29-48), a duração da doença foi de sete anos (4-13) anos e o Systemic Lupus Disease Activity Index (Sledai-2 K) foi de 1 (0-2). A mediana (IIQ) da variação nos níveis de PCR entre os dois grupos mostrou um decréscimo no grupo ômega-3, enquanto houve um aumento no grupo controle (p = 0,008). As concentrações séricas de IL-6 e IL-10, leptina e adiponectina não se alteraram após um tratamento de 12 semanas. Conclusões: A suplementação de ômega-3 não teve impacto sobre as concentrações séricas de IL-6, IL-10, leptina e adiponectina em mulheres com LES e baixa atividade da doença. Houve uma diminuição significativa nos níveis de PCR, bem como evidências de que o ômega-3 pode impactar sobre o colesterol total e LDL.

Fixed-flexion knee radiography using a new positioning device produced highly repeatable measurements of joint space width: ELSA-Brasil Musculoskeletal Study (ELSA-Brasil MSK) / A radiografia do joelho em flexão fixa utilizando um novo posicionador produziu medidas da largura do espaço articular com alta repetibilidade: estudo ELSA-Brasil Musculoesquelético (ELSA-Brasil ME)

Abstract Objective: To describe the performance of a non-fluoroscopic fixed-flexion PA radiographic protocol with a new positioning device, developed for the assessment of knee osteoarthritis (OA) in Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health Musculoskeletal Study (ELSA-Brasil MSK). Material and methods: A test–retest design including 19 adults (38 knee images) was conducted. Feasibility of the radiographic protocol was assessed by image quality parameters and presence of radioanatomic alignment according to intermargin distance (IMD) values. Repeatability was assessed for IMD and joint space width (JSW) measured at three different locations. Results: Approximately 90% of knee images presented excellent quality. Frequencies of nearly perfect radioanatomic alignment (IMD ≤1 mm) ranged from 29% to 50%, and satisfactory alignment was found in up to 71% and 76% of the images (IMD ≤1.5 mm and ≤1.7 mm, respectively). Repeatability analyses yielded the following results: IMD [SD of mean difference = 1.08; coefficient of variation (%CV) = 54.68%; intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) (95%CI) = 0.59 (0.34–0.77)]; JSW [SD of mean difference = 0.34–0.61; %CV = 4.48%–9.80%; ICC (95%CI) = 0.74 (0.55–0.85)–0.94 (0.87–0.97)]. Adequately reproducible measurements of IMD and JSW were found in 68% and 87% of the images, respectively. Conclusions: Despite the difficulty in achieving consistent radioanatomic alignment between subsequent radiographs in terms of IMD, the protocol produced highly repeatable JSW measurements when these were taken at midpoint and 10 mm from the medial extremity of the medial tibial plateau. Therefore, measurements of JSW at these locations can be considered adequate for the assessment of knee OA in ELSA-Brasil MSK.

Resumo Objetivo: Descrever o desempenho de um protocolo radiográfico em flexão fixa sem fluoroscopia em incidência PA com um novo posicionador, desenvolvido para a avaliação da osteoartrite de joelho (OA) no estudo ELSA-Brasil ME. Material e métodos: Fez-se um estudo de teste e reteste que incluiu 19 adultos (38 imagens de joelho). A viabilidade do protocolo radiográfico foi avaliada por meio de parâmetros de qualidade da imagem e presença de alinhamento radioanatômico de acordo com as medidas da distância intermarginal (DIM). Avaliaram-se a repetibilidade dos valores de DIM e do espaço articular (EA) em três locais diferentes. Resultados: Aproximadamente 90% das imagens de joelho apresentaram uma qualidade excelente. As frequências de imagens com alinhamento radioanatômico quase perfeito (DIM<1mm) variaram de 29% a 50%, e de alinhamento satisfatório (DIM<1,5mm e <1,7mm) de 71% a 76%, respectivamente. As análises de repetibilidade produziram os seguintes resultados: DIM [DP da média das diferenças = 1,08; coeficiente de variação (% CV) = 54,68%; coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (CCI) (IC 95%) = 0,59 (0,34 a 0,77)]; EA [DP da média das diferenças = 0,34 a 0,61; % CV = 4,48% a 9,80%; CCI (IC 95%) = 0,74 (0,55 a 0,85) a 0,94 (0,87 a 0,97]. Encontraram-se medidas adequadamente reprodutíveis de DIM e EA em 68% e 87% das imagens, respectivamente. Conclusões: Apesar da dificuldade de obter um alinhamento radioanatômico consistente entre radiografias repetidas em termos de DIM, o protocolo produziu medições de EA altamente repetíveis quando essas foram tomadas no ponto médio e a 10 mm da extremidade medial do platô tibial medial. Portanto, as medidas de EA nesses locais podem ser consideradas adequadas para a avaliação da OA de joelho no estudo ELSA-Brasil ME.

Fixed-flexion knee radiography using a new positioning device produced highly repeatable measurements of joint space width: ELSA-Brasil Musculoskeletal Study (ELSA-Brasil MSK).

OBJECTIVE: To describe the performance of a non-fluoroscopic fixed-flexion PA radiographic protocol with a new positioning device, developed for the assessment of knee osteoarthritis (OA) in Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health Musculoskeletal Study (ELSA-Brasil MSK). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A test-retest design including 19 adults (38 knee images) was conducted. Feasibility of the radiographic protocol was assessed by image quality parameters and presence of radioanatomic alignment according to intermargin distance (IMD) values. Repeatability was assessed for IMD and joint space width (JSW) measured at three different locations. RESULTS: Approximately 90% of knee images presented excellent quality. Frequencies of nearly perfect radioanatomic alignment (IMD ≤1mm) ranged from 29% to 50%, and satisfactory alignment was found in up to 71% and 76% of the images (IMD ≤1.5mm and ≤1.7mm, respectively). Repeatability analyses yielded the following results: IMD [SD of mean difference=1.08; coefficient of variation (%CV)=54.68%; intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) (95%CI)=0.59 (0.34-0.77)]; JSW [SD of mean difference=0.34-0.61; %CV=4.48%-9.80%; ICC (95%CI)=0.74 (0.55-0.85)-0.94 (0.87-0.97)]. Adequately reproducible measurements of IMD and JSW were found in 68% and 87% of the images, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the difficulty in achieving consistent radioanatomic alignment between subsequent radiographs in terms of IMD, the protocol produced highly repeatable JSW measurements when these were taken at midpoint and 10mm from the medial extremity of the medial tibial plateau. Therefore, measurements of JSW at these locations can be considered adequate for the assessment of knee OA in ELSA-Brasil MSK.