Association Between Body Mass Index, Obesity, and Clinical Outcomes Following Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting in Brazil: An Analysis of One Year of Follow-up of BYPASS Registry Patients.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between body mass index (BMI), obesity, clinical outcomes, and mortality following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in Brazil using a large sample with one year of follow-up from the Brazilian Registry of Cardiovascular Surgeries in Adults (or BYPASS) Registry database. METHODS: A multicenter cohort-study enrolled 2,589 patients submitted to isolated CABG and divided them into normal weight (BMI 20.0-24.9 kg/m2), overweight (BMI 25.0-29.9 kg/m2), and obesity (BMI > 30.0 kg/m2) groups. Inpatient postoperative outcomes included the most frequently described complications and events. Collected post-discharge outcomes included rehospitalization and mortality rates within 30 days, six months, and one year of follow-up. RESULTS: Sternal wound infections (SWI) rate was higher in obese compared to normal-weight patients (relative risk [RR]=5.89, 95% confidence interval [CI]=2.37-17.82; P=0.001). Rehospitalization rates in six months after discharge were higher in obesity and overweight groups than in normal weight group (χ=6.03, P=0.049); obese patients presented a 2.2-fold increase in the risk for rehospitalization within six months compared to normal-weight patients (RR=2.16, 95% CI=1.17-4.09; P=0.045). Postoperative complications and mortality rates did not differ among groups during time periods. CONCLUSION: Obesity increased the risk for SWI, leading to higher rehospitalization rates and need for surgical interventions within six months following CABG. Age, female sex, and diabetes were associated with a higher risk of mortality. The obesity paradox remains controversial since BMI may not be sufficient to assess postoperative risk in light of more complex and dynamic evaluations of body composition and physical fitness.

Impact of long COVID on the heart rate variability at rest and during deep breathing maneuver.

While the majority of individuals with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) recover completely, a significant percentage experience persistent symptom, which has been characterized as Long COVID and may be associated with cardiac and autonomic dysfunction. We evaluated heart rate variability (HRV) at rest and during deep-breathing (M-RSA) in patients with Long COVID. Case-control design involved 21 patients with Long COVID and 20 controls; the HRV was evaluated (POLAR system) at rest in the supine position and during M-RSA and expressed in time domain and non-linear analysis. In the supine position we found a reduction HRV measures in Long COVID' patients compared to controls for: Mean_iRR (p < 0.001), STD_iRR (p < 0.001); STD_HR (p < 0.001); SD1 (p < 0.001); SD2 (p < 0.001); alpha2 (p < 0.001). In the M-RSA we found reduction Mean_iRR (p < 0.001), STD_iRR (p < 0.001), STD_HR (p < 0.001), rMSSD (p < 0.001), RR_tri-index (p < 0.001) in Long COVID' patients except for highest Mean_HR p < 0.001. In conclusion, Long COVID reduced HRV at rest and during deep breathing. These findings may imply impairment of cardiac autonomic control when symptoms of COVID-19 persist following initial recovery.

Funcionalidade da família dos pacientes com doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica / Funcionalidad de la familia de pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica / Functionality of family of the patients with chronic obstructive lung disease

RESUMO A doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC) é altamente limitante, tanto nos aspectos físicos, quanto socioemocionais, causando dificuldades significativas no cotidiano dos pacientes. Além de afetar os pacientes, a DPOC também influência na vida dos familiares e amigos próximos, pois deles vem a rede de apoio de que os pacientes necessitam. O objetivo deste artigo é avaliar a funcionalidade da família no cotidiano de pacientes acometidos por DPOC. É um estudo transversal que avaliou a funcionalidade de família de pacientes com DPOC em diferentes estágios da doença e que realizam Programa Reabilitação Cardiorrespiratória (PRC). Utilizou-se o instrumento APGAR de Família, sendo este, um acrônimo caracterizado por A = (Adaptation/Adaptação), P = (Partnership/Companheirismo), G = (Grow/Desenvolvimento), A = (Affection/Afetividade), R = (Resolve/Capacidade resolutiva), composto por 5 questões avaliadas em "sempre", "algumas vezes" e "nunca", o que somados resultam em "elevada disfunção familiar", moderada disfunção familiar" e "boa funcionalidade familiar". Foram avaliados 21 pacientes DPOC [sexo masculino (n=11; 52,3%); idade média 66,3±10 anos], com estadiamento entre moderado a muito severo. Através do APGAR da Família identificamos 2 pacientes com elevada disfunção familiar; 2 pacientes com moderada disfunção familiar; 17 pacientes com boa funcionalidade familiar. Dos que relataram elevada e moderada disfunção familiar, os acrômios mais comprometidos foram "companheirismo", "afetividade" e "desenvolvimentos". O grau de obstrução das vias áreas associou-se moderada e positivamente com a funcionalidade da família (r = 0,697; p = 0,004). Pacientes com DPOC participantes do PRC apresentaram boa funcionalidade familiar no seu cotidiano e a gravidade da doença esteve associada a esta funcionalidade. Pacientes que apresentaram maior disfunção familiar relataram falta de "companheirismo", "afetividade" e "desenvolvimentos".

RESUMEN La enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC) es muy limitante, tanto en aspectos físicos como socioemocionales, causando dificultades significativas en la vida diaria de los pacientes. Además de afectar a los pacientes, la EPOC también influye en la vida de los familiares y amigos cercanos, ya que de ellos proviene la red de apoyo que los pacientes necesitan. El objetivo de este artículo es evaluar la funcionalidad de la familia en la vida cotidiana de los pacientes afectados por EPOC. Se trata de un estudio transversal que evaluó la funcionalidad familiar de pacientes con EPOC en diferentes etapas de la enfermedad y que realizan un Programa de Rehabilitación Cardiaca (PRC). Se utilizó el instrumento APGAR familiar, que es un acrónimo caracterizado por A = (Adaptation/Adaptación), P = (Partnership/Compañerismo), G = (Grow/Desarrollo), A = (Affection/Afectividad), R = (Resolve/Capacidad de resolución), compuesto por 5 preguntas evaluadas en "siempre", "a veces" y "nunca", que combinadas resultan en "disfunción familiar severa", "disfunción familiar moderada" y "buena funcionalidad familiar". Se evaluaron 21 pacientes con EPOC [sexo masculino (n=11; 52,3%); edad media 66,3±10 años], con una estadificación que varía de moderada a muy grave. A través del APGAR familiar identificamos 2 pacientes con severa disfunción familiar; 2 pacientes con disfunción familiar moderada; 17 pacientes con buena funcionalidad familiar. De los que relataron disfunción familiar severa y moderada, los acrónimos más comprometidos fueron "compañerismo", "afectividad" y "desarrollo". El grado de obstrucción de las vías se asoció moderada y positivamente con la funcionalidad de la familia (r=0,697; p=0,004). Los pacientes con EPOC que participaron en el PCR presentaron una buena funcionalidad familiar en su vida diaria y la gravedad de la enfermedad se asoció a esta funcionalidad. Los pacientes que presentaron mayor disfunción familiar relataron falta de "compañerismo", "afectividad" y "desarrollo".

ABSTRACT Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is highly limiting, both physically and socio-emotionally, causing significant difficulties in the daily lives of patients. In addition, COPD also influences the lives of family and friends, because theirs who come to the support network that patient need. Objective: To evaluate the family functionality in the daily life of COPD patients. Methods: This cross-sectional study evaluated the family functionality in COPD patients with different stages of disease and underwent Cardiorespiratory Rehabilitation Program (CRP). The Family APGAR instrument was used and it is an acronym characterized by A = (Adaptation / Adaptation), P = (Partnership / Companionship), G = (Grow / Development), A = (Affection / Affectivity), R = (Resolve / Resolving capacity), composed of 5 questions assessed in "always", "sometimes" and "never", which together result in "high family dysfunction", moderate family dysfunction "and" good family functionality". We evaluated 21 COPD patients [male gender (n = 11; 52.3%); mean age 66.3 ± 10 years], status disease between moderate to very severe. Through of the Family APGAR we identified 2 patients with high family dysfunction; 2 patients with moderate family dysfunction; 17 patients with good family functionality. Among those who reported high and moderate family dysfunction, the most compromised acromia's were "companionship", "affection" and "developments". The degree of airway obstruction was moderately and positively associated with family functionality (r = 0.697; p = 0.004). Patients with COPD who participated in CRP had good family functionality in their daily lives and the severity of the disease was associated with this functionality. Patients with high family dysfunction reported lack of "companionship", "affection" and "developments".

Exercise-Based Pulmonary Rehabilitation for Interstitial Lung Diseases: A Review of Components, Prescription, Efficacy, and Safety.

Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) comprise a heterogeneous group of disorders (such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, sarcoidosis, asbestosis, and pneumonitis) characterized by lung parenchymal impairment, inflammation, and fibrosis. The shortness of breath (i.e., dyspnea) is a hallmark and disabling symptom of ILDs. Patients with ILDs may also exhibit skeletal muscle dysfunction, oxygen desaturation, abnormal respiratory patterns, pulmonary hypertension, and decreased cardiac function, contributing to exercise intolerance and limitation of day-to-day activities. Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) including physical exercise is an evidence-based approach to benefit functional capacity, dyspnea, and quality of life in ILD patients. However, despite recent advances and similarities with other lung diseases, the field of PR for patients with ILD requires further evidence. This mini-review aims to explore the exercise-based PR delivered around the world and evidence supporting prescription modes, considering type, intensity, and frequency components, as well as efficacy and safety of exercise training in ILDs. This review will be able to strengthen the rationale for exercise training recommendations as a core component of the PR for ILD patients.

Short-term effects of maximal dynamic exercise on flow-mediated dilation in professional female soccer players.

BACKGROUND: Endothelial function assessment may provide important insights into the cardiovascular function and long-term effects of exercise training. Many studies have investigated the possible negative effects on cardiovascular function due to extreme athletic performance, leading to undesirable effects. The purposes of this study were to investigate the acute effects of maximal intensity exercise on endothelium-dependent vasodilation, and to understand the patterns of flow-mediated dilation (FMD) change following maximal exercise in elite female athletes with a high-volume training history. METHODS: Twenty-six elite female soccer players (mean age, 22±4 years; BMI, 21±2 kg/m2; VO2max, 41±4 mL/kg/min) were evaluated. Brachial artery FMD was determined using high-resolution ultrasound at rest, and after 15 and 60 min of maximal cardiopulmonary exercise (CPX) testing on a treadmill. Flow velocity was measured at baseline and during reactive hyperemia at the same periods. RESULTS: Rest FMD was 12.4±5.5%. Peak diameter in response to reactive hyperemia was augmented after 15 min of CPX (3.5±0.4 vs. 3.6±0.4 mm, P<0.05), returning to resting values after 60 min. However, %FMD did not change among time periods. There were two characteristic patterns of FMD response following CPX. Compared to FMD at rest, half of the subjects responded with an increased FMD following maximum exercise (10.5±6.1 vs. 17.8±7.5%, P<0.05). The other subjects demonstrated a reduced FMD response following maximum exercise (14.2±4.3 vs. 10.9±3.2%, P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that elite female soccer players presented robust brachial artery FMD at rest, with a heterogeneous FMD response to acute exercise with a 50% FMD improvement rate.

Effects of acute inspiratory loading during treadmill running on cerebral, locomotor and respiratory muscle oxygenation in women soccer players.

Respiratory limitation can be a primary mechanism for exercise cessation in female athletes. This study aimed to assess the effects of inspiratory loading (IL) on intercostal muscles (IM), vastus lateralis (VL) and cerebral (Cox) muscles oxygenation in women soccer players during high-intensity dynamic exercise. Ten female soccer players were randomized to perform in order two constant-load tests on a treadmill until the exhaustion time (Tlim) (100 % of maximal oxygen uptake- V˙O2). They breathed freely or against a fixed inspiratory loading (IL) of 41 cm H2O (∼30 % of maximal inspiratory pressure). Oxygenated (Δ[OxyHb]), deoxygenated (Δ[DeoxyHb]), total hemoglobin (Δ[tHb]) and tissue saturation index (ΔTSI) were obtained by NIRs. Also, blood lactate [La-] was obtained. IL significantly reduced Tlim (224 ± 54 vs 78 ± 20; P < 0.05) and increased [La-], V˙O2, respiratory cycles and dyspnea when corrected to Tlim (P < 0.05). IL also resulted in decrease of Δ[OxyHb] of Cox and IM during exercise compared with rest condition. In addition, decrease of Δ[OxyHb] was observed on IM during exercise when contrasted with Sham (P < 0.05). Furthermore, significant higher Δ[DeoxyHb] of IM and significant lower Δ[DeoxyHb] of Cox were observed when IL was applied during exercise in contrast with Sham (P < 0.05). These results were accompanied with significant reduction of Δ[tHb] and ΔTSI of IM and VL when IL was applied (P < 0.05). High-intensity exercise with IL decreased respiratory and peripheral muscle oxygenation with negative impact on exercise performance. However, the increase in ventilatory work did not impact cerebral oxygenation in soccer players.

Acute effects of expiratory positive pressure on autonomic cardiac modulation during spontaneous and slow deep breathing in COPD patients.

AIM: to evaluate the acute effects of expiratory positive airway pressure on cardiac autonomic modulation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients during spontaneous breathing and slow deep breathing. METHODS: 17 patients were evaluated. The R-R intervals were collected (Polar® S810i) during spontaneous breathing (10 minutes) and slow deep breathing (4 minutes), with and without 5 cmH2O expiratory positive airway pressure. Stable signals were analyzed by Kubios®. Heart rate variability indices were computed in time domain and in frequency domain. RESULTS: Expiratory positive airway pressure application affected low frequency (spontaneous breathing: 62.5±4.1 vs slow deep breathing: 28.2±4.2, p<0.001) and high frequency (spontaneous breathing: 37.4±17.3 vs slow deep breathing: 58.9±18.1, p<0.001). Interactions were observed between expiratory positive airway pressure effect and slow deep breathing effect for low frequency (p<0.001), high frequency (p<0.001) and low frequency/high frequency ratio (p<0.001). When patients were stratified by disease's severity, we identified a significant low frequency reduction (p<0.001) and high frequency increase (p<0.001) for all stages when slow deep breathing was associated with expiratory positive airway pressure. CONCLUSION: A 5 cmH2O expiratory positive airway pressure during spontaneous and slow deep breathing can elicit an acute response, resulting in a cardiac autonomic control improvement in moderate-to-very severe patients.

Validity, intra and inter-reliability of manual evaluation of the respiratory muscle strength in asthmatic patients.

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the concurrent validity, inter and intra-reliability of manual evaluation in Asthma patients. METHODS: Twenty six asthma patients were assessed. Maximal respiratory muscle strength (Mrms) was tested by inspiratory and expiratory pressure (MIP and MEP, respectively) trough manovacuometer. In addition, Mrms of diaphragm (anterior and posterior), Intercostals (lower and upper portion) and Rectus abdominal were obtained manually, according to Medical Research Council (MRC) scale. Two independents evaluators, previously trained, made both measurements. RESULTS: Reproducibility of Mrms intra-evaluators: anterior diaphragm (ICCs, 0.79 and 0.67); Posterior portion of the diaphragm (ICCs, 0.43 and 0.51); Upper intercostals (ICCs, 0.47 and 0.40); Lower intercostals (ICCs, 0.81 and 0.51) and rectus abdominal (ICCs, 1.0). Inter-reproducibility of anterior diaphragm was low to moderate, while intercostals (upper and lower portion) was relatively low. However, rectus abdominal presented high reproducibility reflecting in almost perfect agreement. In addition, we found positive correlations between MIP versus Lower Intercostals (r = .60, p = .007) and MEP versus rectus abdominal (r = .41, p = .04). CONCLUSION: In asthmatic patients, manual evaluation of the respiratory muscles is reliable. In addition, maximal respiratory pressures using manometer assessment were related to manual evaluation, in special to diaphragm and rectus abdominal muscles.

Thoracoabdominal mobility evaluation of asthmatic patients in physiotherapy practice: Intra-rater reliability.

BACKGROUND: The evaluation of thoracoabdominal mobility is a tool extensively used in the physiotherapy practice in different populations. Photogrammetry may be a simple tool to analyse thoracoabdominal mobility; however, it is unclear whether this assessment can be a reliable method. AIM: To test the reliability intra-examinator by photogrammetry in asthmatic patients and in health controls. METHODS: Twenty-six asthmatic patients (29 ± 9 years) and 14 healthy matched controls (27 ± 8 years) were assessed by thoracoabdominal mobility. Photographs during rest, during inspiration and expiration maximum were used to calculate latero-lateral and antero-posterior diameters of the thorax (at axillary and xiphoid levels) and umbilical by markers positioned in osseous structures. An evaluator obtained the same measurements in an 8-day interval. RESULTS: We found a moderate reliability for axillary, xiphoid and umbilical mobility (average intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] respectively [0.68, 0.55 and 0.73]) for asthmatic group. In addition, for control group, we found a moderate reliability for axillary mobility (average ICC respectively [0.68] and a good reliability for xiphoid and umbilical mobility) (average ICC 0.81 and 0.70). Bland-Altman plots showed goods limit of agreement in photos 1 and 2 in both groups. CONCLUSION: The photogrammetric analysis of thoracoabdominal mobility presented itself as a reliable method and may be used in clinical practice in asthmatic patients and in controls.

Overlap syndrome: the coexistence of OSA further impairs cardiorespiratory fitness in COPD.

BACKGROUND: Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is an important prognostic marker in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) also negatively affects exercise tolerance. However, the impact of their association on CRF has not been evaluated. We hypothesized that patients with overlap syndrome would demonstrate a greater impairment in CRF, particularly those with severe COPD. METHODS: Individuals with COPD were recruited. First, subjects underwent clinical and spirometry evaluation. Next, home-based sleep evaluation was performed. Subjects with an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) < 15 episodes/h were allocated to the COPD group and those with an AHI ≥ 15 episodes/h to the overlap group. On the second visit, subjects underwent a cardiopulmonary exercise test. Subsequently, they were divided into four groups according to the severity of COPD and coexistence of OSA: COPDI/II; overlap I/II; COPDIII/IV; and overlap III/IV. RESULTS: Of the 268 subjects screened, 31 were included. The overlap group exhibited higher values for peak carbon dioxide (COPD: 830 [678-1157]; overlap: 1127 [938-1305] mm Hg; p < 0.05), minute ventilation (COPD: 31 [27-45]; overlap: 48 [37-55] L; p < 0.05), and peak systolic blood pressure (COPD: 180 [169-191]; overlap: 220 [203-227] mm Hg; p <; 0.001) and peak diastolic blood pressure COPD: 100 [93-103]; overlap: 110 [96-106] mm Hg; p < 0.001). COPD severity associated with OSA produced a negative impact on exercise time (COPDIII/IV: 487 ± 102; overlap III/IV: 421 ± 94 s), peak oxygen uptake (COPDIII/IV: 12 ± 2; overlap III/IV: 9 ± 1 ml.Kg.min-1 ; p < 0.05) and circulatory power (COPDIII/IV: 2306 ± 439; overlap III/IV: 2162 ± 340 ml/kg/min.mmHg; p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Overlap syndrome causes greater hemodynamic and ventilatory demand at the peak of dynamic exercise. In addition, OSA overlap in individuals with more severe COPD impairs CRF.

Pulmonary function and functional capacity cut-off point to establish sarcopenia and dynapenia in patients with COPD. / Pontos de corte da função pulmonar e capacidade funcional determinantes para sarcopenia e dinapenia em pacientes com DPOC.

OBJECTIVE: To establish a cut-off point for clinical and functional variables to determinate sarcopenia and dynapenia in COPD patients, and to analyze the impact of skeletal muscle dysfunction (SMD) on these variables. METHODS: Cross-sectional study, screened COPD patients for sarcopenia or dynapenia through low muscle mass and hand grip strength (HGS). Clinical variables: pulmonary function, respiratory muscle strength and functional capacity (FC). The precision of the variables in determining points of predictive cut-off for sarcopenia or dynapenia were performed using the Receiver Operating Characteristic curve and two-way analysis of variance. RESULTS: 20 COPD patients stratified for sarcopenia (n = 11) and dynapenia (n = 07). Sarcopenia group presented lower lean mass and lower maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), decreased HGS, reduced FC (p<0.050). Dynapenia group presented reduced MIP, lower HGS and walked a shorter distance at Incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT) (p<0.050). We found cut-off points of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), MIP and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) and ISWT. It is possible to identify sarcopenia or dynapenia in these patients. We found the coexistence of the conditions (SMD effect) in COPD - reduction in the distance in the ISWT (p = 0.002) and %ISWT (p = 0.017). CONCLUSION: In moderate to very severe COPD patients the sarcopenia could be predicted by FEV1 (%predicted) < 52, MIP < 73 cmH2O, MEP < 126 cmH2O and distance traveled of < 295 m in ISWT. Whereas dynapenia could be predicted by FEV1 < 40%, MIP < 71 cmH2O, MEP < 110 cmH2O and distance of < 230 m traveled in ISWT.

OBJETIVO: Estabelecer ponto de corte entre as variáveis clínicas e funcionais para avaliar a prevalência de sarcopenia e dinapenia em pacientes com Doença Pulmonar Obstrutiva Crônica (DPOC), além de analisar o impacto da Disfunção Muscular Esquelética (DME) nestas variáveis. MÉTODOS: Realizado estudo transversal com pacientes diagnosticados com DPOC para determinar sarcopenia ou dinapenia por meio do índice de baixa massa muscular e Força de Preensão Palmar (FPP). Avaliadas a função pulmonar, força muscular respiratória e capacidade funcional (CF). A precisão das variáveis na determinação dos pontos de corte previstos para as doenças em questão foi obtida a partir da curva Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) e de uma análise bidirecional da variância. RESULTADOS: Ao final da análise, obtiveram-se 20 pacientes com DPOC estratificados por sarcopenia (n = 11) e dinapenia (n = 07). O grupo com sarcopenia apresentou menor massa magra e menor pressão inspiratória máxima (PImáx), diminuição da Força de Preensão Palmar (FPP) e redução da CF (p<0,050). O grupo com dinapenia apresentou redução da PImáx, menor FPP e menor distância percorrida no teste Incremental Shuttle Walk (ISWT) (p<0,050). Foram encontrados pontos de corte no Volume Expiratório Forçado (VEF1) durante o primeiro segundo na PImáx, na Pressão Expiratória Máxima (PEmáx) e no ISWT, o que possibilitou identificar sarcopenia ou dinapenia nestes pacientes. A partir destes resultados, foi possível encontrar coexistência das condições (efeito DME) na DPOC: redução da distância no ISWT (p = 0,002) e % ISWT (p = 0,017). CONCLUSÕES: Em pacientes com DPOC moderada a muito grave, a sarcopenia pode ser prevista pelo VEF1 (% previsto) <52, PImáx <73 cm H2O, PEmáx <126 cm H2O e distância percorrida de <295 metros no ISWT. Já a dinapenia pode ser prevista pelo VEF1 <40%, PImáx <71 cm H2O, PEmáx <110 cm H2O e distância de <230 metros percorrida no ISWT.

Variabilidade da frequência cardíaca em diferentes posições corporais e durante MASR em amputado unilateral de membro inferior / Variability of heart beat frequency in different body positions and during MASR in a person with lower member unilateral amputation

A amputação leva a redução da mobilidade e atividade física afetando os sistemas musculoesquelético, respiratório e cardiovascular. Nosso objetivo foi analisar a variabilidade da frequência cardíaca (VFC) em diferentes posições corporais e durante a Manobra de Arritmia Sinusal Respiratória (MASR) em amputados unilaterais de membros inferiores (MMII) protetizados. Estudo transversal, amostra de conveniência, avaliou 07 amputados homens de origem traumática e registradas as variáveis clínicas e VFC nas posições supino, ortostase, sedestação (10 minutos) e durante a MASR (4 minutos). Em repouso os sujeitos apresentam predominância da modulação simpática que se acentua quando assume a posição de ortostase (p = <0.01) e atenuação da complexidade autonômica (p = 0,04). Os amputados não responderam de modo adequado à MASR e observou-se alteração na complexidade da VFC (0,04). Amputados unilaterais de MMII protetizados demonstraram comportamento esperado durante a mudança ativa de postura e respostas adversas à MASR

Amputation causes decrease of mobility and physical activities, affecting the muscle-skeleton, respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Variability of heart frequency (VFC) at different body positions and during Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia (RSA) was analyzed in people with amputation of unilateral lower members with prosthesis (MMII). Current transversal study, with convenience sample, evaluated seven males with trauma-caused amputations. Clinical variations and VFC were registered with regard to supine position, orthostasis, sedestation (10 min) and during RSA (4 min). The subjects at rest showed a predominance in increasing sympathetic modulation as the orthostatic position is achieved (p = <0.01) and attenuation of autonomic complexity (p = 0.04). People with amputation failed to respond adequately to RSA and alterations were detected in VFC complex (0.04). Unilateral amputated people with prosthesis showed expected behavior during active changes in posture and adverse responses to RSA

Physiological responses in different intensities of resistance exercise - Critical load and the effects of aging process.

Aim was to identify critical load (CL) in young and elderly apparently healthy male cohorts. To contrast the metabolic, cardiovascular and perceptual responses on CL according to age. We evaluated 12 young (23 ± 3 years) and 10 elderly (70 ± 2 years) apparently healthy active males, who underwent: (1) 1 repetition maximum (1RM) test on a 45° Leg Press; (2) on different days, three high-intensity resistance exercise constant load tests (60%, 75% and 90% 1RM) until fatigue (Tlim). Absolute values of both the CL asymptote and curvature constant (kg) were significantly lower in elderly subjects (P < 0.05). In contrast, elderly subjects demonstrated a significantly higher number of repetitions at CL when compared with young subjects (P < 0.05). As expected, oxygen uptake (VO2) and heart rate (HR) during maximal aerobic exercise testing were significantly reduced in older subjects. However, percent-predicted aerobic capacity were higher in older subjects (P < 0.05). In addition, blood lactate ([La-]) corrected to Tlim and rating of perceived exertion values were greater in younger subjects at all intensities (P < 0.05). These findings, despite reduced force production in older subjects, endurance-related parameters are well preserved according to age-adjusted percent-predicted values in apparently healthy males.

Pontos de corte da função pulmonar e capacidade funcional determinantes para sarcopenia e dinapenia em pacientes com DPOC / Pulmonary function and functional capacity cut-off point to establish sarcopenia and dynapenia in patients with COPD

RESUMO Objetivo Estabelecer ponto de corte entre as variáveis clínicas e funcionais para avaliar a prevalência de sarcopenia e dinapenia em pacientes com Doença Pulmonar Obstrutiva Crônica (DPOC), além de analisar o impacto da Disfunção Muscular Esquelética (DME) nestas variáveis. Métodos Realizado estudo transversal com pacientes diagnosticados com DPOC para determinar sarcopenia ou dinapenia por meio do índice de baixa massa muscular e Força de Preensão Palmar (FPP). Avaliadas a função pulmonar, força muscular respiratória e capacidade funcional (CF). A precisão das variáveis na determinação dos pontos de corte previstos para as doenças em questão foi obtida a partir da curva Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) e de uma análise bidirecional da variância. Resultados Ao final da análise, obtiveram-se 20 pacientes com DPOC estratificados por sarcopenia (n = 11) e dinapenia (n = 07). O grupo com sarcopenia apresentou menor massa magra e menor pressão inspiratória máxima (PImáx), diminuição da Força de Preensão Palmar (FPP) e redução da CF (p<0,050). O grupo com dinapenia apresentou redução da PImáx, menor FPP e menor distância percorrida no teste Incremental Shuttle Walk (ISWT) (p<0,050). Foram encontrados pontos de corte no Volume Expiratório Forçado (VEF1) durante o primeiro segundo na PImáx, na Pressão Expiratória Máxima (PEmáx) e no ISWT, o que possibilitou identificar sarcopenia ou dinapenia nestes pacientes. A partir destes resultados, foi possível encontrar coexistência das condições (efeito DME) na DPOC: redução da distância no ISWT (p = 0,002) e % ISWT (p = 0,017). Conclusões Em pacientes com DPOC moderada a muito grave, a sarcopenia pode ser prevista pelo VEF1 (% previsto) <52, PImáx <73 cm H2O, PEmáx <126 cm H2O e distância percorrida de <295 metros no ISWT. Já a dinapenia pode ser prevista pelo VEF1 <40%, PImáx <71 cm H2O, PEmáx <110 cm H2O e distância de <230 metros percorrida no ISWT.

ABSTRACT Objective To establish a cut-off point for clinical and functional variables to determinate sarcopenia and dynapenia in COPD patients, and to analyze the impact of skeletal muscle dysfunction (SMD) on these variables. Methods Cross-sectional study, screened COPD patients for sarcopenia or dynapenia through low muscle mass and hand grip strength (HGS). Clinical variables: pulmonary function, respiratory muscle strength and functional capacity (FC). The precision of the variables in determining points of predictive cut-off for sarcopenia or dynapenia were performed using the Receiver Operating Characteristic curve and two-way analysis of variance. Results 20 COPD patients stratified for sarcopenia (n = 11) and dynapenia (n = 07). Sarcopenia group presented lower lean mass and lower maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), decreased HGS, reduced FC (p<0.050). Dynapenia group presented reduced MIP, lower HGS and walked a shorter distance at Incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT) (p<0.050). We found cut-off points of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), MIP and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) and ISWT. It is possible to identify sarcopenia or dynapenia in these patients. We found the coexistence of the conditions (SMD effect) in COPD - reduction in the distance in the ISWT (p = 0.002) and %ISWT (p = 0.017). Conclusion In moderate to very severe COPD patients the sarcopenia could be predicted by FEV1 (%predicted) < 52, MIP < 73 cmH2O, MEP < 126 cmH2O and distance traveled of < 295 m in ISWT. Whereas dynapenia could be predicted by FEV1 < 40%, MIP < 71 cmH2O, MEP < 110 cmH2O and distance of < 230 m traveled in ISWT.

COPD assessment test and FEV1: do they predict oxygen uptake in COPD?

BACKGROUND: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) manifests itself in complex ways, with local and systemic effects; because of this, a multifactorial approach is needed for disease evaluation, in order to understand its severity and impact on each individual. Thus, our objective was to study the correlation between easily accessible variables, usually available in clinical practice, and maximum aerobic capacity, and to determine models for peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) estimation in COPD patients. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Individuals with COPD were selected for the study. At the first visit, clinical evaluation was performed. During the second visit, the volunteers were subjected to the cardiopulmonary exercise test. To determine the correlation coefficient of VO2peak with forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) (% pred.) and the COPD Assessment Test score (CATs), Pearson or Spearman tests were performed. VO2 at the peak of the exercise was estimated from the clinical variables by simple and multiple linear regression analyses. RESULTS: A total of 249 subjects were selected, 27 of whom were included after screening (gender: 21M/5F; age: 65.0±7.3 years; body mass index: 26.6±5.0 kg/m2; FEV1 (% pred.): 56.4±15.7, CAT: 12.4±7.4). Mean VO2 peak was 12.8±3.0 mL⋅kg-1⋅min-1 and VO2peak (% pred.) was 62.1%±14.9%. VO2peak presented a strong positive correlation with FEV1 (% pred.), r: 0.70, and a moderate negative correlation with the CATs, r: -0.54. In the VO2peak estimation model based on the CAT (estimated VO2peak =15.148- [0.185× CATs]), the index explained 20% of the variance, with estimated error of 2.826 mL⋅kg-1⋅min-1. In the VO2peak estimation model based on FEV1 (estimated VO2peak =6.490+ [0.113× FEV1]), the variable explained 50% of the variance, with an estimated error of 2.231 mL⋅kg-1⋅min-1. In the VO2peak estimation model based on CATs and FEV1 (estimated VO2peak =8.441- [0.0999× CAT] + [0.1000× FEV1]), the variables explained 55% of the variance, with an estimated error of 2.156 mL⋅kg-1⋅min-1. CONCLUSION: COPD patients' maximum aerobic capacity has a significant correlation with easily accessible and widely used clinical variables, such as the CATs and FEV1, which can be used to estimate peak VO2.

Students' blood pressure and heart rate while performing cognitive tasks at education institutions in Northern and Northeastern Brazil.

BACKGROUND: The use of information and communication technologies improves the versatility of learning environments by broadening the scope of educational practices, allowing students to communicate with other institutions and providing access to information in real time. However, these tools, in addition to environmental characteristics, can increase the internal thermal load, which is directly influenced by the external environment, with a consequent impact on body physiology. OBJECTIVE: The present study investigated the relationship between air temperature and blood pressure and heart rate among students performing cognitive tasks at computer laboratories in four public universities (three in Northeastern Brazil and one in Northern Brazilian). METHODS: Thermal conditions and physiological parameters were analysed over three consecutive days, and the participants were subjected to changes in air temperature from 20°C to 33°C. Blood pressure and heart rate were measured before and after testing. RESULTS: Analyses of the experimental data showed changes in heart rate at high temperatures, with a greater risk of students from Teresina and Manaus institutions presenting heart rates above 100 bpm during cognitive tasks. CONCLUSIONS: Within the temperature range applied, on the day of the highest temperature, we observed the highest percentage of participants who reported thermal discomfort (63%, 33°C; 58%, 29°C; 38%, 28°C) and a reduction of cognitive performance (15 to 10 points when the air temperature increases from 20 to 33°C).

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease severity and its association with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: impact on cardiac autonomic modulation and functional capacity.

BACKGROUND: The study was conducted to determine the impact of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in association with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) on cardiac autonomic control and functional capacity. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The study was a cross-sectional prospective controlled clinical study. Heart rate variability indices of 24 COPD (n = 12) and COPD+OSAS (n = 12) patients were evaluated and compared by electrocardiographic recordings acquired during rest, active postural maneuver (APM), respiratory sinus arrhythmia maneuver (RSA-m), and the 6-minute walk test (6MWT). RESULTS: The COPD group presented higher parasympathetic modulation during APM when compared to the COPD+OSAS group (P = 0.02). The COPD+OSAS group presented higher sympathetic modulation during RSA-m when compared to the COPD group (P = 0.00). The performance during 6MWT was similarly impaired in both groups, despite the greater severity of the COPD group. CONCLUSION: Subjects with COPD+OSAS present marked sympathetic modulation, and the presence of OSAS in COPD subjects has a negative impact on functional capacity regardless of the severity of lung disease.

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation improves exercise tolerance in patients with advanced heart failure on continuous intravenous inotropic support use-randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of a short-term neuromuscular electrical stimulation program on exercise tolerance in hospitalized patients with advanced heart failure who have suffered an acute decompensation and are under continuous intravenous inotropic support. DESIGN: A randomized controlled study. SUBJECTS: Initially, 195 patients hospitalized for decompensated heart failure were recruited, but 70 were randomized. INTERVENTION: Patients were randomized into two groups: control group subject to the usual care ( n = 35); neuromuscular electrical stimulation group ( n = 35) received daily training sessions to both lower extremities for around two weeks. MAIN MEASURES: The baseline 6-minute walk test to determine functional capacity was performed 24 hours after hospital admission, and intravenous inotropic support dose was daily checked in all patients. The outcomes were measured in two weeks or at the discharge if the patients were sent back home earlier than two weeks. RESULTS: After losses of follow-up, a total of 49 patients were included and considered for final analysis (control group, n = 25 and neuromuscular electrical stimulation group, n = 24). The neuromuscular electrical stimulation group presented with a higher 6-minute walk test distance compared to the control group after the study protocol (293 ± 34.78 m vs. 265.8 ± 48.53 m, P < 0.001, respectively). Neuromuscular electrical stimulation group also demonstrated a significantly higher dose reduction of dobutamine compared to control group after the study protocol (2.72 ± 1.72 µg/kg/min vs. 3.86 ± 1.61 µg/kg/min, P = 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION: A short-term inpatient neuromuscular electrical stimulation rehabilitation protocol improved exercise tolerance and reduced intravenous inotropic support necessity in patients with advanced heart failure suffering a decompensation episode.

Does peripheral arterial occlusive disease influence muscle strength and exercise capacity in COPD patients? / A doença arterial periférica obstrutiva influencia a força muscular e a capacidade de exercício nos portadores de doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica?

Abstract Background The pathophysiology of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is complex and understanding of it has been changing in recent years, with regard to its multisystemic manifestations, especially peripheral dysfunction and its influence on intolerance to exercise. Objectives To evaluate the relationship between peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) and peripheral muscle strength and exercise capacity in COPD patients. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study of 35 patients with COPD who were evaluated with the Ankle-Brachial Index, handgrip strength test, 1 repetition maximum (1RM) of knee extensors and flexors, and distance covered in the incremental shuttle walking test (dISWT). Results COPD patients with coexisting PAOD had lower dominant handgrip strength test results (33.00 vs. 26.66 kgf, p = 0.02) and worse performance in the dISWT (297.32 vs. 219.41 m, p = 0.02) when compared to the COPD patients without PAOD. Strong correlations were found between the result of the handgrip strength test and both the dISWT (r = 0.78; p < 0.001) and the 1RM/knee extension (r = 0.71; p = 0.03); and also between the dISWT and both the 1RM/knee extension (r = 0.72; p = 0.02) and the 1RM/knee flexion (r = 0.92; p < 0.001). The linear regression model showed that the dISWT variable alone explains 15.3% of the Ankle-Brachial Index result (p = 0.01). Conclusion COPD patients with PAOD exhibit reduced muscle strength and lower exercise capacity than COPD patients without PAOD.

Resumo Contexto A doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC) apresenta uma complexa fisiopatologia e sua compreensão vem se modificando nos últimos anos, com atenção para as manifestações multissistêmicas, em especial a disfunção periférica e sua influência na intolerância ao exercício físico. Objetivo Avaliar o impacto da doença arterial periférica obstrutiva (DAOP) na força muscular periférica e na capacidade de exercício dos portadores de DPOC. Métodos Estudo transversal realizado com 35 portadores de DPOC, que foram avaliados pelo índice tornozelo-braquial, teste de força de preensão palmar (FPP), uma repetição máxima (1RM) de extensores e flexores de joelho, e a distância no incremental shuttle walking test (dISWT). Resultados Portadores de DPOC com DAP coexistente apresentaram menor FPP da mão dominante (33,00 versus 26,66 kgf, p = 0,02) e pior desempenho no dISWT (297,32 versus 219,41 m, p = 0,02) quando comparados aos portadores de DPOC sem DAP. Fortes correlações foram encontradas entre a medida da FPP e a dISWT (r = 0,78; p < 0,001) e a 1RM/extensão de joelho (r = 0,71; p = 0,03); entre a dISWT e a 1RM/extensão de joelho (r = 0,72; p = 0,02) e a 1RM/flexão de joelho (r = 0,92; p < 0,001). O modelo de regressão linear identificou que a variável dISWT explica isoladamente 15,3% do resultado do índice tornozelo braquial (p = 0,01). Conclusão Portadores de DPOC com DAOP coexistente apresentam maior perda da força muscular periférica e pior desempenho da capacidade de exercício quando comparados aos portadores de DPOC sem DAOP.

Is cardiac autonomic modulation during upper limb isometric contraction and Valsalva maneuver impaired in COPD patients?

PURPOSE: To evaluate the heart rate variability (HRV) indices and heart rate (HR) responses during isometric contraction (IC) and Valsalva maneuver (VM) in COPD patients. METHODS: Twenty-two stable moderate to severe COPD patients were evaluated. R-R intervals were recorded (monitor Polar® S810i) during dominant upper limb IC (2 minutes). Stable signals were analyzed by Kubios HRV® software. Indices of HRV were computed in the time domain (mean HR; square root of the mean squared differences of successive RR intervals [RMSSD] and HRV triangular index [RR tri index]) and in the frequency domain (high frequency [HF]; low frequency [LF] and LF/HF ratio). The HR responses were evaluated at rest, at the peak and at the nadir of the VM (15 seconds). The Valsalva index was also calculated. RESULTS: During IC: time domain indices (mean HR increased [P=0.001], RMSSD, and RR tri index decreased [P=0.005 and P=0.005, respectively]); frequency domain indices (LF increased [P=0.033] and HF decreased [P=0.002]); associations were found between forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) vs RMSSD (P=0.04; r=-0.55), FEV1 vs HR (P=0.04; r=-0.48), forced vital capacity (FVC) vs RMSSD (P=0.05; r=-0.62), maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP) vs HF (P=0.02; r=0.68). FEV1 and FVC justified 30% of mean HR. During VM: HR increased (P=0.01); the nadir showed normal bradycardic response; the Valsalva index was =0.7. CONCLUSION: COPD patients responded properly to the upper limb IC and to the VM; however, HR recovery during VM was impaired in these patients. The severity of the disease and MIP were associated with increased parasympathetic modulation and higher chronotropic response.