Long-term Telerehabilitation or Unsupervised Training at Home for Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Rationale: Despite the benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), many patients do not access or complete pulmonary rehabilitation, and long-term maintenance of exercise is difficult. Objectives: To compare long-term telerehabilitation or unsupervised treadmill training at home with standard care. Methods: In an international randomized controlled trial, patients with COPD were assigned to three groups (telerehabilitation, unsupervised training, or control) and followed up for 2 years. Telerehabilitation consisted of individualized treadmill training at home supervised by a physiotherapist and self-management. The unsupervised training group performed unsupervised treadmill exercise at home. The control group received standard care. The primary outcome was the combined number of hospitalizations and emergency department presentations. Secondary outcomes included time free from the first event; exercise capacity; dyspnea; health status; quality of life; anxiety; depression; self-efficacy; and subjective impression of change. Measurements and Main Results: A total of 120 participants were randomized. The incidence rate of hospitalizations and emergency department presentations was lower in telerehabilitation (1.18 events per person-year; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.94-1.46) and unsupervised training group (1.14; 95% CI, 0.92-1.41) than in the control group (1.88; 95% CI, 1.58-2.21; P < 0.001 compared with intervention groups). Telerehabilitation and unsupervised training groups experienced better health status for 1 year. Intervention participants reached and maintained clinically significant improvements in exercise capacity. Conclusions: Long-term telerehabilitation and unsupervised training at home in COPD are both successful in reducing hospital readmissions and can broaden the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation and maintenance strategies.

Inspiratory muscle training in addition to conventional physical rehabilitation in hospitalized patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a randomized controlled trial.

PURPOSE: To investigate the effect of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) in addition to conventional physical rehabilitation on muscle strength, functional capacity, mobility, hemodynamics, fatigue, and quality of life in hospitalized patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). METHODS: We conducted a randomized controlled trial in 57 inpatients with hematological diseases undergoing HSCT. Conventional inpatient physical rehabilitation was delivered to the IMT (n = 27) and control (CON; n = 30) groups according to usual care, and the first group additionally performed IMT. The IMT was prescribed according to clinical and laboratory parameters at 40% of maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), 5 days/week throughout the hospitalization, in sessions of 10-20 min. The primary outcome was MIP and the secondary outcomes were maximal expiratory pressure (MEP), peripheral muscle strength (handgrip and sit-to-stand tests), functional capacity (6-min step test), mobility (timed up and go test), blood pressure, quality of life (EORTC-QLQ-C30), and fatigue (FACT-F) at admission and hospital discharge. RESULTS: The population was predominately autologous HSCT. The IMT group significantly increased the MIP (P < 0.01) and decreased both fatigue (P = 0.01) and blood pressure (P < 0.01) compared with control. No differences were found between admission and hospital discharge in peripheral and expiratory muscle strength, functional capacity, mobility, and quality of life in both groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Our results support the effectiveness of IMT as part of rehabilitation for HSCT inpatients, improving inspiratory muscle strength, and reducing fatigue and blood pressure. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT03373526 (clinicaltrials.gov).

Spirituality and religiosity are associated with physical and psychological status in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

BACKGROUND: Management strategies that incorporate spirituality and religiosity (S/R) have been associated with better health status in clinical populations. However, few data are available for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to improve the traditional disease-model treatment. AIMS: The objectives of this study were to evaluate the association between S/R and physical and psychological status in patients with stable COPD. DESIGN: This is a cross-sectional study. METHODS: Religiosity, spiritual well-being and S/R Coping were measured. Physical status was evaluated with the activity of daily living, dyspnoea and the impact of the disease. Psychological status was assessed with anxiety and depression symptoms and quality of life. Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated, multivariate linear regression was applied in the analyses. This study is reported following the STROBE recommendations. RESULTS: Seventy-two patients with stable COPD (male 58%, aged 68 ± 9 years, forced expiratory volume in 1s (FEV1 ) of 49.2 ± 19.6% predicted) were included. There was no association between S/R and activity of daily living. However, higher spiritual well-being and lower Negative S/R Coping was associated with reduced dyspnoea and burden of the disease. Increased S/R and lower Negative S/R Coping was also associated with less anxiety, depression and better quality of life. Multivariate linear regression showed that S/R variables explained the physical and psychological health status in people with stable COPD. CONCLUSIONS: Higher spirituality and less negative S/R Coping are associated with reduced dyspnoea, the burden of the disease, anxiety and depression symptoms, and better quality of life in patients with stable COPD. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: Understanding how religiosity and spirituality are associated with physical and psychological features in patients with COPD may contribute to the long-term management of this patient population.

Social Participation and Associated Factors in Individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease on Long-Term Oxygen Therapy.

Long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) reduces hypoxaemia and mitigate systemic alterations in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), however, it is related to inactivity and social isolation. Social participation and its related factors remain underexplored in individuals on LTOT. This study investigated social participation in individuals with COPD on LTOT and its association with dyspnoea, exercise capacity, muscle strength, symptoms of anxiety and depression, and quality of life. The Assessment of Life Habits (LIFE-H) assessed social participation. The modified Medical Research Council dyspnoea scale, the 6-Minute Step test (6MST) and handgrip dynamometry were used for assessments. In addition, participants responded to the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Chronic Respiratory Questionnaire (CRQ). Correlation coefficients and multivariate linear regression analyses were applied. Fifty-seven participants with moderate to very severe COPD on LTOT were included (71 ± 8 years, FEV1: 40 ± 17%predicted). Social participation was associated with dyspnoea (rs=-0.46, p < 0.01), exercise capacity (r = 0.32, p = 0.03) and muscle strength (r = 0.25, p = 0.05). Better participation was also associated with fewer depression symptoms (rs=-0.40, p < 0.01) and a better quality of life (r = 0.32, p = 0.01). Dyspnoea was an independent predictor of social participation (p < 0.01) on regression models. Restricted social participation is associated with increased dyspnoea, reduced muscle strength and exercise capacity. Better participation is associated with fewer depression symptoms and better quality of life in individuals with COPD on LTOT.

Long-term integrated telerehabilitation of COPD Patients: a multicentre randomised controlled trial (iTrain).

BACKGROUND: Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is an effective intervention for the management of people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, available resources are often limited, and many patients bear with poor availability of programmes. Sustaining PR benefits and regular exercise over the long term is difficult without any exercise maintenance strategy. In contrast to traditional centre-based PR programmes, telerehabilitation may promote more effective integration of exercise routines into daily life over the longer term and broaden its applicability and availability. A few studies showed promising results for telerehabilitation, but mostly with short-term interventions. The aim of this study is to compare long-term telerehabilitation with unsupervised exercise training at home and with standard care. METHODS/DESIGN: An international multicentre randomised controlled trial conducted across sites in three countries will recruit 120 patients with COPD. Participants will be randomly assigned to telerehabilitation, treadmill and control, and followed up for 2 years. The telerehabilitation intervention consists of individualised exercise training at home on a treadmill, telemonitoring by a physiotherapist via videoconferencing using a tablet computer, and self-management via a customised website. Patients in the treadmill arm are provided with a treadmill only to perform unsupervised exercise training at home. Patients in the control arm are offered standard care. The primary outcome is the combined number of hospitalisations and emergency department presentations. Secondary outcomes include changes in health status, quality of life, anxiety and depression, self-efficacy, subjective impression of change, physical performance, level of physical activity, and personal experiences in telerehabilitation. DISCUSSION: This trial will provide evidence on whether long-term telerehabilitation represents a cost-effective strategy for the follow-up of patients with COPD. The delivery of telerehabilitation services will also broaden the availability of PR and maintenance strategies, especially to those living in remote areas and with no access to centre-based exercise programmes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02258646 .

The Bed Bridge Test: a new functional test for hospital inpatients - a feasibility and measurement study.

PURPOSE: To develop and assess the Bed Bridge Test's (BBT) feasibility, safety, and clinimetric properties and evaluate functional capacity in hospitalised patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This feasibility and measurement study examined four BBT versions, including the timed-limited at 30 and 60 s and repetition-limited at 5 and 10 times, in hospitalised patients in a university hospital in Brazil. Ninety-two functionally stable patients with respiratory, gastrointestinal, or post-surgical conditions participated. Participants completed the BBT versions in a random order. BBT concurrent criterion validity was evaluated using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), Sit-to-Stand (STS) test, and Functional Status Score (FSS). RESULTS: The participants were 51 ± 17 years old, 60% female, and 66% with clinical conditions. All participants completed the BBT versions without adverse events. Test-retest reliability was good-excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient >0.87) for all BBT versions, with acceptable agreement parameters and minimal detectable changes. The time-limited versions of the BBT might be affected by a ceiling effect. Floor effects were minimal for all BBT versions. BBT showed moderate associations with SPPB and STS and weak associations with FSS. CONCLUSIONS: The BBT is feasible and has promising measurement properties.

The Bed Bridge Test (BBT) offers a valuable solution for healthcare professionals by addressing the limitations of existing functional tests, providing a straightforward assessment of functional capacity for both the patient and the assessor.The BBT has demonstrated excellent feasibility and safety, as all eligible participants completed its various versions without adverse events, indicating its potential utility across diverse patient populations.The BBT exhibits good to excellent reliability, indicating its reproducibility in clinical settings.The BBT has validated its effectiveness by exhibiting robust correlations with established functional tests such as the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and Sit-to-Stand (STS) test.

Upper limb function of individuals hospitalized in intensive care: A 6-month cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Impaired physical function is a common complication in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. However, specific upper limb (UL) function is still poorly studied in this population. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate UL function at discharge and after a 6-month follow-up of individuals hospitalized in the ICU. METHODS: This was a longitudinal prospective 6-month multicentre cohort study with forty-six individuals hospitalized in the ICU undergoing mechanical ventilation for ≥ 48 h (ICU Group) and forty-six healthy individuals matched by sex, age, and socioeconomic status (control Group). The primary outcomes were measurements of UL disability using the Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test (JTT) and the Nine Hole Peg Test (NHPT). Secondary outcomes were physical function (Barthel index), muscle strength (Medical Research Council scale and hand grip strength), and quality of life (EuroQol-5 Dimension). All measurements were assessed after ICU discharge and at a 6-month follow-up. RESULTS: The JTT performance time in the ICU group after discharge was worse than that in the control group [121 s (86-165) vs. 54 s (49-61), median (IQR), p<0,001] and was reduced after 6 months [62 s (54-81), p<0,01]. The NHPT performance time at discharge in the ICU group was worse than that in the controls [39 s (33-59) vs. 21 s (20-23), p<0,001] and was reduced after 6 months of follow-up [24 s (21-27), p<0,01]. Physical function, muscle strength and quality of life were reduced after ICU discharge. CONCLUSION: Individuals hospitalized in the ICU presented with reduced UL function at discharge and at the 6-month follow-up.

Pulmonary expansion manoeuvres compared to usual care on ventilatory mechanics, oxygenation, length of mechanical ventilation and hospital stay, extubation, atelectasis, and mortality of patients in mechanical ventilation: A randomized clinical trial.

Pulmonary expansion manoeuvres are therapeutic techniques used to prevent and reverse atelectasis; however, no randomized controlled trials have provided evidence supporting the use of this intervention among individuals on mechanical ventilation. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of chest compression-decompression and chest block manoeuvres compared to usual care among patients on mechanical ventilation. METHODS: The current study was a randomized clinical trial of adult subjects on mechanical ventilation for 12 to 48 hours. The control group received usual care (passive or active mobilization, manoeuvres for airway clearance and tracheal aspiration). The intervention group received usual care plus two lung expansion manoeuvres, i.e., chest decompression and chest block, while remaining on mechanical ventilation. Assessments were performed before and after usual care, immediately after the intervention and 30 minutes after the intervention. The primary outcome was static compliance. The secondary outcomes were the incidence of atelectasis, dynamic compliance, airway resistance, driving pressure, oxygenation, duration of mechanical ventilation, extubation success, length of hospital and ICU stay, and mortality. RESULTS: Fifty-one participants (67±15 years old, 53% men, 26 in the control group and 25 in the intervention group) were evaluated. No differences in static compliance were observed between groups (intervention minus control) before and after expansion manoeuvres [3.64 ml/cmH2O (95% CI: -0.36-7.65, p = 0.074)]. Peripheral oxygen saturation differed between groups before and after expansion manoeuvres, with more favourable outcome observed in the control group [-1.04% (95% CI: -1.94 --0.14), p = 0.027]. No differences were found in other outcomes. CONCLUSION: Chest compression-decompression and chest block manoeuvres did not improve ventilatory mechanics, the incidence of atelectasis, oxygenation, the duration of mechanical ventilation, the length of stay in the ICU and hospital, or mortality in individuals on mechanical ventilation. The findings of this study can be valuable for guiding evidence-based clinical practice and developing a therapeutic approach that provides real benefits for this population.

Perceptions of individuals regarding barriers to participation in a pulmonary rehabilitation program after hospitalization due to COVID-19: A qualitative study.

INTRODUCTION: Several individuals with post-COVID-19 syndrome referred for pulmonary rehabilitation did not participate. This study aimed to explore individuals' barriers to participating in posthospitalization COVID-19 rehabilitation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a qualitative, multicenter study performed using semistructured interviews. This study included 20 individuals hospitalized for COVID-19 who refused to participate in a pulmonary rehabilitation program at a university hospital. RESULTS: Individuals reported difficulties accessing the rehabilitation center, mainly due to distance, transport costs and conditions, and lack of companions. Health problems (e.g., surgeries, pain, and mobility difficulties) and lack of time due to work, commuting, and household work were also reported. Another reported theme was not perceiving the need for rehabilitation due to feeling well. Minor themes included the need for more information about rehabilitation and a lack of interest, motivation, and medical encouragement. CONCLUSION: Individuals hospitalized for COVID-19 faced several barriers to participating in a pulmonary rehabilitation program. These barriers included difficulties in accessing the rehabilitation center, health problems, lack of time, and the perception that rehabilitation was unnecessary. There is a need for actions to overcome these barriers to make the program available to a larger number of individuals.

High-dose Chemotherapy Impairs Cardiac Autonomic Control of Hospitalized Cancer Patients Undergoing Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation.

BACKGROUND: Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) patients have intermediary and late cardiac autonomic dysfunction, which is an independent mortality predictor. However, it is unknown when this HSCT-related autonomic dysfunction begins during hospitalization for HSCT and whether cardiac autonomic control (CAC) is related to cardiotoxicity in these patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: CAC was assessed in 36 autologous-HSCT inpatients (HSCT group) and 23 cancer-free outpatients (CON group) using heart rate variability analysis. The HSCT group was assessed at five time-points from admission to hospital discharge during hospitalization period. The CON group was assessed once. The severity of cardiotoxicity (CTCAE 5.0) and cardiac troponin I were recorded. RESULTS: The CAC was significantly reduced after high-dose chemotherapy (HDC) (reduction of MNN, SDNN, RMSSD, LFms2 and HFnu, and increase of LFnu and LF/HF; P<0.05). At the onset of neutropenia, pNN50 and HFms2 were also reduced (P<0.05) compared to the admission ones. Although both groups were similar regarding CAC at hospital admission, the HSCT patients showed impaired CAC at hospital discharge (P<0.05). The LF/HF was positively associated with cardiac troponin I and RMSSD was inversely associated with the severity of cardiotoxicity (P≤0.05). CONCLUSION: CAC worsened during hospitalization for autologous-HSCT, mainly after HDC. In addition, it seems associated to early signs of cardiotoxicity in these patients.

Association between fear of falling and a history of falls in patients with end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis.

INTRODUCTION: Hemodialysis patients have complications that increase fear of falling (FOF). This study evaluated the association between FOF and a retrospective history of falls in hemodialysis patients and investigated the ability of the Fall Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I) to discriminate fallers from nonfallers. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted with 183 patients to investigate the history of falls in the last 12 months and to evaluate FOF by the FES-I. RESULTS: The univariate linear regression model showed that the FES-I score was significantly associated with a history of falls (p = 0.01). After adjustment for potential confounders, this association remained significant (R2  = 0.19, p < 0.001). The FES-I score showed an area under the curve of 0.660 with a cutoff point of 25 (sensitivity-61.8%; specificity-62.2%). CONCLUSION: FOF was associated with a history of falls in the 12-month period in hemodialysis patients, and FOF assessed by the FES-I was able to discriminate fallers from nonfallers.

The Brazilian version of the telehealth usability questionnaire (telehealth usability questionnaire Brazil): translation, cross-cultural adaptation, and psychometric properties.

OBJECTIVE: The objectives of this study were to translate and cross-culturally adapt the telehealth usability questionnaire into Brazilian Portuguese and to evaluate its psychometric properties. METHODS: This was a methodological validation study carried out in two phases. In phase 1, the telehealth usability questionnaire was cross-culturally adapted with 10 participants comprising the expert committee members, including 5 healthcare professionals with theoretical and practical knowledge of telehealth, 1 methodologist, and 4 translators. This phase was performed at Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora Physiotherapy Clinic School. In phase 2, the psychometric properties of telehealth usability questionnaire Brazil were analyzed. This phase included in-person assessments at Márcio Cunha Hospital, Minas Gerais. The recruitment period for both phases was from April 2020 to February 2021. Content validity, reliability, internal consistency, and criterion validity were analyzed. The criterion validity was evaluated using correlation with a validated instrument: the system usability scale. RESULTS: The telehealth usability questionnaire was adequately translated and cross-culturally adapted. The telehealth usability questionnaire Brazil presented an excellent content validity index of 0.96 with percentages of understanding higher than 90%. The telehealth usability questionnaire Brazil demonstrated great internal consistency (α=0.94 and ω=0.94), excellent intra-rater reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient=0.85, 95%CI 0.75-0.91), no difference between the test and retest [T (0.425), p>0.673], and no proportional bias (p=0.205). There was a moderate correlation between telehealth usability questionnaire Brazil and the system usability scale (r=0.52, p<0.0001). CONCLUSION: The telehealth usability questionnaire was adequately translated and cross-culturally adapted into Brazilian Portuguese and showed adequate psychometric properties for use in telehealth clinical practice and research in Brazilian-Portuguese-speaking individuals.

Factors associated with postural balance in patients with end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis.

BACKGROUND: Patients with end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis have postural balance impairments due to uremic syndrome and hemodialysis complications. This study evaluated the factors associated with postural balance in patients on hemodialysis. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included patients on hemodialysis [n = 93, 62.0 (16.0) years]. Postural balance was evaluated using a force plate in a static position with eyes opened and eyes closed on a firm surface and with eyes opened on a foam surface to register the center of pressure path length. Physical function was assessed by isometric handgrip force, the 5-repetition sit-to-stand test, and gait speed. The level of physical activity and quality of life were evaluated by accelerometry and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey, respectively. FINDINGS: After adjustment for potential confounders, the multiple linear regression analysis showed that the presence of diabetes mellitus and neurological disease and gait speed were significantly associated with the center of pressure path length in the eyes opened test (R2 = 0.263; p < 0.001). The center of pressure path length in the eyes closed test was significantly associated with the presence of neurological disease (R2 = 0.177; p = 0.002). The center of pressure path length in the eyes opened on a foam surface test was significantly associated with the presence of diabetes mellitus (R2 = 0.223; p < 0.001). INTERPRETATION: Poor postural balance was associated with the presence of diabetes mellitus and neurological disease and a slower gait speed in patients on hemodialysis.

Effects of whole-body electromyostimulation on function, muscle mass, strength, social participation, and falls-efficacy in older people: A randomized trial protocol.

BACKGROUND: Resistance training has a positive impact on functional capacity and muscle mass in the elderly. However, due to physical limitations or a simple aversion against regular exercise, a majority of the elderly do not reach the recommended exercise doses. This led us to evaluate the effect of whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS), a novel, time-efficient, and smooth training technology on physical function, fat-free mass, strength, falls-efficacy, and social participation of the elderly. METHODS: The present study is a randomized, parallel group clinical trial approved by the Ethics Committee of our Institution. Sixty-six volunteers (age ≥ 60 years) will be recruited from the geriatric outpatient department in a tertiary hospital and primary care units and randomized into two groups: WB-EMS group or active control group (aCG). The WB-EMS or aCG protocol will consist of 16 sessions for 8 consecutive weeks, twice per week. The primary outcomes will be maximal isometric knee extension (IKE), functional lower extremity strength, fat-free mass, gait speed, and risk of falls measured before and after intervention. The secondary outcomes will be social participation and falls-efficacy assessed before and after the intervention and at three and six months of follow-up. Participant's satisfaction with and awareness of electrical stimulation therapy will also be assessed immediately after the 8-week intervention. DISCUSSION: Patients receiving WB-EMS exercises are believed to have better outcomes than those receiving conventional, more time-consuming resistance exercises. Hence, innovative, time-efficient, joint-friendly, and highly individualized exercise technologies (such as WB-EMS) may be a good choice for the elderly with time constraints, physical limitations, or little enthusiasm, who are exercising less than the recommended amounts for impact on muscle mass, strength, and function.

Proportional Assist Ventilation Improves Leg Muscle Reoxygenation After Exercise in Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction.

BACKGROUND: Respiratory muscle unloading through proportional assist ventilation (PAV) may enhance leg oxygen delivery, thereby speeding off-exercise oxygen uptake ( V . ⁢ O 2 ) kinetics in patients with heart failure with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (HFrEF). METHODS: Ten male patients (HFrEF = 26 ± 9%, age 50 ± 13 years, and body mass index 25 ± 3 kg m2) underwent two constant work rate tests at 80% peak of maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test to tolerance under PAV and sham ventilation. Post-exercise kinetics of V . ⁢ O 2 , vastus lateralis deoxyhemoglobin ([deoxy-Hb + Mb]) by near-infrared spectroscopy, and cardiac output (Q T ) by impedance cardiography were assessed. RESULTS: PAV prolonged exercise tolerance compared with sham (587 ± 390 s vs. 444 ± 296 s, respectively; p = 0.01). PAV significantly accelerated V . ⁢ O 2 recovery (τ = 56 ± 22 s vs. 77 ± 42 s; p < 0.05), being associated with a faster decline in Δ[deoxy-Hb + Mb] and Q T compared with sham (τ = 31 ± 19 s vs. 42 ± 22 s and 39 ± 22 s vs. 78 ± 46 s, p < 0.05). Faster off-exercise decrease in Q T with PAV was related to longer exercise duration (r = -0.76; p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: PAV accelerates the recovery of central hemodynamics and muscle oxygenation in HFrEF. These beneficial effects might prove useful to improve the tolerance to repeated exercise during cardiac rehabilitation.

Factors associated with fear of falling in hemodialysis patients.

PURPOSE: Fear of falling (FOF) has important clinical and psychological consequences. This study evaluated the factors associated with FOF in hemodialysis patients and compared with the FOF reported by age-gender matched individuals without chronic kidney disease. METHODS: This cross sectional study included hemodialysis group (n = 60, 55.4 ± 7.6 years, 55.0% male) and control group (n = 40, 55.1 ± 7.5 years, 52.5% male). FOF was assessed by the Falls Efficacy Scale International (FES-I). Physical function was evaluated using the Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Mini-BESTest), Timed Up and Go test, 4-m gait speed, isometric handgrip force and 10-repetition sit-to-stand test. The physical and mental components of quality of life was evaluated by 36-Item Short Form Health Survey. RESULTS: The FES-I score was higher in the hemodialysis group compared to the control group (28.2 ± 9.7 vs. 23.3 ± 5.1, p = 0.020). In addition, the prevalence of individuals with a higher concern about falling was greater in the hemodialysis group (41.7 vs. 17.5%, p = 0.033). Multiple linear regression showed that the FES-I score was associated with the Mini-BESTest score and the physical component summary of quality of life (coefficient of determination of 0.51 and an adjusted coefficient of determination of 0.46). CONCLUSION: FOF was associated with poor postural balance and reduced physical component of quality of life in patients on hemodialysis and these patients showed higher FOF compared to individuals without chronic kidney disease.

Factors associated with the perceived benefits and barriers to physical activity in liver cirrhosis.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with the perceived benefits and barriers to physical activity (PA) in subjects with liver cirrhosis. METHODS: This cross-sectional study assessed 102 outpatients with liver cirrhosis regarding the clinical and sociodemographic profile and the perceived benefits and barriers to PA by the Exercise Benefits and Barriers Scale and muscle strength. A Generalized Step-Forward linear regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated. RESULTS: The participants were 59±10 years and 60.8% were men. Around 29.4% had ascites decompensation. Perceived benefits and barriers were associated with the presence of ascites (95%CI -0.079 - 0.03; p=0.06 and 95%CI 0.003 - 0.217; p=0.045, respectively). In the group with ascites, both benefits and barriers were associated with muscle strength. In the group without ascites, benefits were associated with cardiovascular risks and no association was observed with barriers to physical activity. CONCLUSIONS: Perceived benefits and barriers to physical activity are associated with intrinsic factors such as the presence of ascites and cardiovascular risk in individuals with liver cirrhosis. The results of this study highlight key elements that must be considered for increasing physical activity in this population.

Influence of respiratory pressure support on hemodynamics and exercise tolerance in patients with COPD.

Inspiratory pressure support (IPS) plus positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) ventilation might potentially interfere with the "central" hemodynamic adjustments to exercise in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Twenty-one non- or mildly-hypoxemic males (FEV(1) = 40.1 +/- 10.7% predicted) were randomly assigned to IPS (16 cmH(2)O) + PEEP (5 cmH(2)O) or spontaneous ventilation during constant-work rate (70-80% peak) exercise tests to the limit of tolerance (T (lim)). Heart rate (HR), stroke volume (SV), and cardiac output (CO) were monitored by transthoracic cardioimpedance (Physioflow, Manatec, France). Oxyhemoglobin saturation was assessed by pulse oximetry (SpO(2)). At similar SpO(2), IPS(16) + PEEP(5) was associated with heterogeneous cardiovascular effects compared with the control trial. Therefore, 11 patients (Group A) showed stable or increased Delta "isotime" - rest SV [5 (0-29) mL], lower DeltaHR but similar DeltaCO. On the other hand, DeltaSV [-10 (-15 to -3) mL] and DeltaHR were both lower with IPS(16) + PEEP(5) in Group B (N = 10), thereby reducing DeltaCO (p < 0.05). Group B showed higher resting lung volumes, and T (lim) improved with IPS(16) + PEEP(5) only in Group A [51 (-60 to 486) vs. 115 (-210 to 909) s, respectively; p < 0.05]. We conclude that IPS(16) + PEEP(5) may improve SV and exercise tolerance in selected patients with advanced COPD. Impaired SV and CO responses, associated with a lack of enhancement in exercise capacity, were found in a sub-group of patients who were particularly hyperinflated at rest.

THE INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE-FATIGUE PATIENT SELF-ASSESSMENT SCALE: TRANSLATION, CROSS-CULTURAL ADAPTATION AND PSYCHOMETRIC PROPERTIES OF THE BRAZILIAN VERSION (IBD-F BRAZIL).

BACKGROUND: Fatigue is a common symptom in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). A translated and culturally adapted, instrument with robust psychometric for measuring fatigue in Brazilian patients with IBD is needed. OBJECTIVE: To translate and cross-culturally adapt the inflammatory Bowel Disease Fatigue Scale (IBD-F) into Brazilian-Portuguese and to test its measurement properties in Brazilian patients with IBD. METHODS: Data from 123 patients with IBD were collected. In addition to IBD-F, the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-F) was used. The measurement properties tested were: internal consistency, reproducibility (reliability and agreement), construct validity, internal and external responsiveness, and ceiling and floor effects. RESULTS: The Brazilian-Portuguese version of the IBD-F showed excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha of 0.95), excellent reproducibility (ICC=0.97) and a minimal detectable change of 6.0 points. The construct validity was demonstrated with a good correlation between the IBD-F and FACIT-F (r=- 0.46). Effect sizes used for measuring internal responsiveness were moderate among those with Crohn's (0.66) disease and low in patients with ulcerative colitis (0.24). The Brazilian-Portuguese version of the IBD-F presented with high external responsiveness for Crohn's disease (0.84) and with low external responsiveness for ulcerative colitis (0.33). The area under the curve considered for responsiveness was 0.84. Twenty-five percent of floor effects and no ceiling effect were recorded. CONCLUSION: The Brazilian-Portuguese version of IBD-F has adequate measurement properties and its use can be recommended in clinical practice and research.

Validity of the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue Scale (FACIT-F) in individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Brazil / Validación de la Escala de Fatiga, Functional Assessment Of Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue Scale (FACIT-F) en individuos con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica en Brasil / Validade da Escala de Fadiga, Functional Assessment Of Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue Scale (FACIT-F) em indivíduos com Doença Pulmonar Obstrutiva Crônica no Brasil

ABSTRACT Fatigue is one of the most prevalent symptoms in individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), but it is poorly evaluated. The Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue Scale (FACIT-F) is one of the main instruments used to measure fatigue. However, this instrument has not yet been validated for the Brazilian population with COPD. This study aimed to investigate the validity of the FACIT-F fatigue scale in individuals with COPD. In a cross-sectional study, the impact of symptoms (COPD Assessment Test - CAT), dyspnea (modified Medical Research Council - MRC scale), functional capacity (six-minute step test - 6MST), exertional fatigue (Borg modified scale at the end of 6MST), and the FACIT-F scale to assess multidimensional fatigue were evaluated. Concurrent validity was assessed by associating the FACIT-F with the CAT, and convergent validity by associating it with the number of steps, perceived exertional fatigue, and dyspnea. Discriminant validity was assessed by comparing fatigue with the dyspnea severity strata. In total, 92 participants were studied (69.9±8.8 years, FEV1: 48.4% of predicted). The FACIT-F presented an average of 30.1±10.9 points, strong concurrent validity with the CAT (r=-0.80), strong convergent validity with dyspnea (r=−0.66), and low with exercise capacity (r=0.40) and fatigue on exertion (r=-0.44). FACIT-F was effective in discriminating groups with different intensities of dyspnea. Conclusion: The FACIT-F is a valid tool for assessing fatigue in the Brazilian population with COPD.

RESUMEN La fatiga es uno de los síntomas más frecuentes en los individuos con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC), pero su evaluación sigue siendo deficiente. Uno de los principales instrumentos utilizados para medir la fatiga es la Functional assessment of chronic illness therapy fatigue scale (FACIT-F). Sin embargo, este instrumento aún no ha sido validado para la población con EPOC en Brasil. En este contexto, el objetivo de este estudio fue investigar la validez de la escala de fatiga FACIT-F en individuos con EPOC. El estudio transversal evaluó el impacto de los síntomas (COPD Assessment Test -CAT), de la disnea (escala modificada del Consejo de Investigación Médica -MRC), de la capacidad funcional (prueba de pasos de seis minutos -6MST), de la fatiga de esfuerzo (escala modificada de Borg al final de la 6MST) y de la escala FACIT-F para evaluar la fatiga multidimensional. La validez concurrente se evaluó asociando la escala con el CAT, y la validez convergente la asoció con el número de pasos, la fatiga al esfuerzo percibida y la disnea. La validez discriminante se evaluó comparando la fatiga con los estratos de gravedad de la disnea. Se estudió a 92 participantes (69,9±8,8 años, VEF1: 48,4% del predicho). La FACIT-F tuvo una puntuación media de 30,1±10,9, fuerte validez concurrente con el CAT (r=-0,80), fuerte validez convergente con la disnea (r=-0,66) y baja con la capacidad de ejercicio (r=0,40) y con la fatiga de esfuerzo (r=-0,44). La FACIT-F fue eficaz para distinguir grupos con diferentes intensidades de disnea, por lo que muestra ser un instrumento válido para evaluar la fatiga en la población brasileña con EPOC.

RESUMO A fadiga é um dos sintomas mais prevalentes nos indivíduos com Doença Pulmonar Obstrutiva Crônica (DPOC), porém, ainda é pouco avaliada. Um dos principais instrumentos utilizados para mensurar a fadiga é a functional assessment of chronic illness therapy fatigue scale (Facit-F). Entretanto, este instrumento ainda não foi validado para a população com DPOC no Brasil. Dessa forma, o objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a validade da escala de fadiga Facit-F em indivíduos com DPOC. Em um estudo transversal, foram avaliados o impacto dos sintomas (COPD Assessment Test - CAT), a dispneia (escala do Medical Research Council - MRC modificada), a capacidade funcional (teste do degrau de seis Minutos - TD6), a fadiga no esforço (escala de Borg modificada ao final do TD6) e a escala Facit-F para avaliar a fadiga multidimensional. A validade concorrente foi avaliada pela associação da escala com o CAT, e a validade convergente pela associação desta com o número de degraus, percepção de fadiga no esforço e a dispneia. A validade discriminante foi avaliada comparando a fadiga com os estratos da gravidade da dispneia. Foram estudados 92 participantes (69,9±8,8 anos, VEF1: 48,4% do previsto). A Facit-F apresentou uma média de 30,1±10,9 pontos, validade concorrente forte com o CAT (r=-0,80), validade convergente forte com a dispneia (r=-0,66) e baixa com a capacidade de exercício (r=0,40) e com a fadiga ao esforço (r=-0,44). A Facit-F foi eficaz em discriminar grupos com diferentes intensidades de dispneia, portanto é um instrumento válido para a avaliação da fadiga na população brasileira com DPOC.