Dietary intake of anthocyanins improves arterial stiffness, but not endothelial function, in volunteers with excess weight: A randomized clinical trial.

Excess body weight has been associated with endothelial dysfunction and increased arterial stiffness. Foods rich in polyphenols and anthocyanins such as açaí-juçara (Euterpe edulis Martius) fruit may have protective vascular effects. Thus, we examined the effect of dietary intake of anthocyanins (açaí-juçara fruit) on endothelial function (flow-mediated dilation [FMD]) and arterial stiffness (pulse wave velocity [PWV]) in individuals with excess body weight. Fifty-five individuals with BMI ≥25 kg/m2 were randomized into non-anthocyanin (N-ATH, n = 25) or anthocyanin (ATH, n = 30) intake groups. A 12-week individualized diet plan (20% reduction in total energy intake) was prescribed and included daily intake of açaí-juçara 200 g (anthocyanins 293.6 mg) in the ATH diet plan. We evaluated anthropometric and biochemical parameters, FMD, PWV, and peripheral vascular resistance (PVR). A GEE (Bonferroni post-hoc) was used (p ≤ 0.05). No change in FMD was observed. However, PWV showed a reduction from baseline in the ATH (p = 0.002) and vs. N-ATH (p = 0.036). Both groups showed reduced peripheral vascular resistance (N-ATH, p = 0.005; ATH, p = 0.040) with no significant differences between them. In conclusion, dietary intake of anthocyanins proved effective in protecting against arterial stiffness (by PWV) in individuals with excess weight. PVR was reduced in both diet groups regardless of dietary intake of anthocyanins.

The Influence of Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Anger Management on Endothelial Function in Patients With Recent Myocardial Infarction: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

OBJECTIVE: Anger may cause adverse cardiovascular responses, but the effects of anger management on clinical cardiovascular outcomes are insufficiently understood. We sought to assess the influence of anger management through a cognitive behavioral intervention on endothelial function in patients with a recent myocardial infarction (MI). METHODS: Patients with ST-elevation MI and a low anger control score were enrolled during hospitalization in a randomized, parallel, controlled clinical trial. Intervention was anger management with cognitive behavioral techniques implemented by a psychologist in two individual monthly sessions. The primary end point was the between-group difference in the variation of flow-mediated dilation (FMD) in the brachial artery from baseline to the 3-month follow-up. The second end point comprised major cardiovascular events at 24-month follow-up. RESULTS: A total of 43 patients (age = 56 [9] years; 23.3% women) were randomized to the intervention group and 47 patients (age = 58 [10] years; 19.1% women) to the control group. Baseline clinical characteristics were not statistically different between groups. Both groups showed a significant improvement in anger control from baseline to end point; however, the difference in intergroup variation was not statistically significant. The difference in FMD variation from baseline to the 3-month follow-up was significantly higher in the intervention group. The partial η2 was 0.057 (p = .024), indicating a medium effect size. There was no difference between groups regarding major cardiovascular events. CONCLUSIONS: Anger management by cognitive behavioral techniques may improve endothelial function in post-MI patients with low anger control, but it remains unclear via which mechanism these effects occurred. Further studies with larger numbers of patients, assessments of changes in anger, improved comparability of preintervention FMD, and longer follow-up are warranted.Trial Registration:ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02868216.

Aerobic exercise, but not isometric handgrip exercise, improves endothelial function and arterial stiffness in patients with myocardial infarction undergoing coronary intervention: a randomized pilot study.

BACKGROUND: Aerobic exercise improves endothelial function and arterial stiffness after myocardial infarction (MI), but the effects of isometric exercise on cardiovascular parameters are still uncertain. We aimed to assess the effects of one session of aerobic or isometric exercise on flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and pulse wave velocity (PWV) in post-MI volunteers undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). METHODS: Twenty post-MI patients undergoing PCI were randomized to aerobic (AE, n = 10) or isometric (IE, n = 10) exercise groups. We evaluated cardiac structure and function (echocardiographic); carotid plaque presence (ultrasound). FMD and PWV were measured 10 min before and 10 min after the intervention: a single session of moderate-intensity AE (30 min; ratings 12-14 on Borg's scale or 50-60% HRreserve) or handgrip IE (four two-minute bilateral contractions; 30% maximal voluntary contraction; 1-min rest). Generalized estimating equations (Bonferroni post-hoc) was used to assess differences (p ≤ 0.050). RESULTS: FMD improved only in the AE group (Δ = 4.9%; p = 0.034), with no difference between groups after exercise. Even after adjustment (for baseline brachial artery diameter) the effectiveness of AE remained (p = 0.025) with no change in the IE group. PWV was slightly reduced from baseline in the AE group (Δ = 0.61 m/s; p = 0.044), and no difference when compared to the IE group. Peripheral vascular resistance decreased in AE versus IE (p = 0.050) and from baseline (p = 0.014). CONCLUSIONS: Vascular measurements (FMD and PWV) improved after a single session of AE. There are apparently no benefits following a session of IE. TRIAL REGISTRATION: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov and ID number NCT04000893.

May Measurement Month 2019: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Brazil.

The aim of this study is to describe the results of the May Month Measurement (MMM) campaign implemented in Brazil, in 2019. Questionnaire data were collected and three measures of blood pressure (BP) were performed. The sample consisted of 13 476 individuals, 58.2% were white, 60.8% were women. The average age was 46.3 (18.6) years. Of all 13 476 participants, 6858 (50.9%) had hypertension defined as a systolic BP ≥140 mmHg or a diastolic BP ≥90 mmHg or being on anti-hypertensive medication. Of those with hypertension, 68.8% were aware of their diagnosis, 65.3% were on antihypertensive medication, and 36.1% had controlled BP (<140/90 mmHg). In addition, of 4479 participants on anti-hypertensive medication, 55.2% had controlled BP. The use of anti-hypertensive medication was associated with higher systolic (P < 0.001) and diastolic BP (P < 0.001) and having diabetes with higher systolic BP (P < 0.001). Previous hypertension in pregnancy was associated with higher systolic (P = 0.038) and diastolic BP (P = 0.003), and smoking was associated with higher systolic BP (P < 0.001). Lastly, obese and overweight individuals showed significantly higher systolic (P < 0.001) and diastolic (P < 0.001) BP. The Brazilian MMM19 data demonstrate that strategies to increase awareness of hypertension and a better control of the risk factors are still needed.

Gene therapy for refractory angina and cell therapy for heart failure: experience of a Brazilian research group.

Cell therapy has shown impressive effects in experimental cardiomyopathy models. To a lesser extent, gene therapy has also been studied. In both cases, translation to clinical therapy has been disappointing. This paper is intended to describe the experience and achievements of a multicenter working group located in Porto Alegre, southern Brazil, in experimental and translational research projects for cell-based and gene therapy methods in the treatment of dilated and ischemic cardiomyopathies. The results of preclinical and clinical studies showed that bone marrow mononuclear stem cells indeed have an effect in improving myocardial perfusion and contractile function, but the overall results are poorly translated to the clinical level. Gene therapy studies with direct myocardial injections of naked VEGF 165 plasmid showed improvement in myocardial perfusion and function in animal models. A randomized clinical trial found that this method is safe and improved myocardial perfusion, but the benefits disappeared after 1 year. An animal experiment associating VEGF 165 with angiopoietin was undertaken in mini pigs to extend the durability of that therapy. In conclusion, our efforts to better understand the mechanisms and functions of gene and cell-based therapies in cardiology resulted in significant findings and propose a future look at cell-free therapeutic approaches.

May Measurement Month 2018: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Brazil.

Hypertension is a pathology of high prevalence in the world. In Brazil, it is the main risk factor for the major cause of death in the country, coronary heart disease. The May Measurement Month Campaign in 2018 (MMM18) included a population with representation from all Brazilian states and reflects some of the characteristics of hypertension in Brazil. Questionnaire data were collected and three measures of blood pressure (BP) were performed. The sample consisted of 12 413 individuals, 59.1% were white, 51.3% were women. The average age was 54. ± 16.0 years. Diabetes was present in 11.6%, previous myocardial infarction in 5.9%, and previous stroke in 2.7%. Current smokers were 9.3% and 12.4% were regular drinkers. The average body mass index was 27.3 ± 4.5 kg/m2. After multiple imputations, 67.9% were hypertensive (>140/90 mmHg). Of the individuals who were not taking antihypertensive medication, 27.9% were hypertensive and of those taking antihypertensive medication, 40.3% were uncontrolled. Systolic BP increased with age. The MMM18 campaign demonstrated a large number of unknown hypertensives and a high rate of uncontrolled hypertension in Brazil, unfortunately in keeping with 2017 findings.

Sexual Dysfunction in Women with Hypertension: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in hypertensive women and compare sexual dysfunction between hypertensive and non-hypertensive women. RECENT FINDINGS: Conducted a systematic review in the following databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, IBECS, and Lilacs. We included articles evaluating the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in a woman and/or comparing sexual dysfunction between hypertensive and non-hypertensive women. Studies were excluded if they evaluated patients with secondary hypertension, examined sexual dysfunction caused by drugs, did not distinguish by gender, or included patients with hypertension and other comorbidities/pathologies. We conducted an I2 test to calculate heterogeneity and a meta-analysis to compare sexual dysfunction between hypertensive and non-hypertensive women. A meta-regression equation calculated the relationship between sexual dysfunction risk for hypertensive and age. Eleven articles were included: five were included in the meta-analysis (1057 hypertensive and 715 normotensive). The prevalence of sexual dysfunction in articles varied from 14.1 to 90.1%. In the meta-analysis of the sexual dysfunction, the relative risk between hypertensive and normotensive women was found to be significant and has a high heterogeneity (I2 =92.6%, p < 0.001); the pooled results revealed a significant risk ratio of 1.81 (95% CI 1.10-2.97, p < 0.05). The relative risk for hypertensive women showed an association with age (b = 0.0333, p < 0.0001). The studies analyzed presented significant limitations in relation to methodology and a small sample size. Consequently, the meta-analysis was highly heterogeneous and reinforced the need for further research in this area.

May Measurement Month 2017: Brazilian results-Americas.

Hypertension is a pathology of high prevalence in the world. In Brazil, it is the main risk factor for the major cause of death in the country, coronary heart disease. The May Measurement Month Campaign in 2017 (MMM17) included a population with representation from all Brazilian states and reflects some of the characteristics of hypertension in Brazil. Questionnaire data were collected and three measures of blood pressure (BP) were performed. The sample consisted of 7260 individuals, 40% were white, 56.4% were women. The average age was 52 years. Diabetes was present in 11.9%, previous myocardial infarction in 4.0% and stroke in 2.7%. About 8.4% were smokers and 26.2% were users of alcoholic drinks. The average BMI was 26.9 kg/m2. Considering the means of the last two measures of BP 47.0% were hypertensive (>140/90 mmHg). Of the individuals who did not use medication, 19.5% were hypertensive and of those who used anti-hypertensive medication 40.0% were uncontrolled. Systolic BP increased with age. The use of alcohol was related to higher BP levels, as well as diabetes and obesity. The MMM17 campaign demonstrated a large number of unknown hypertensives and a high rate of uncontrolled hypertension in Brazil.

The homing of bone marrow stem cells is differentially activated in ischemic and valvular heart diseases and influenced by beta-blockers.

BACKGROUND: Cell homing is the mechanism by which an injury releases signaling molecules that cause recruitment, proliferation, migration and differentiation of progenitor cells. Stromal derived factor-1 (SDF-1) and its receptor CXCR4 are key molecules involved in homing and little is known about their activation in cardiopathies. Here, we assessed the homing activation status of bone marrow cells (BMC) concerning the SDF-1 and CXCR4 expression in ischemic (IHD) and valvular (VHD) heart diseases. METHODS: The SDF-1 and inflammatory profile were analyzed by ELISA from plasma obtained bone marrow of ischemic heart patients (IHD, n = 41), valvular heart patients (VHD, n = 30) and healthy controls (C, n = 9). Flow cytometry was used to evaluate CXCR4 (CD184) expression on the surface of bone marrow cells, and the CXCR4 expression was estimated by real-time quantitative PCR. RESULTS: The SDF-1 levels in the groups IHD, VHD and control were, respectively, 230, 530 and 620 pg/mL (P = 0.483), and was decreased in VHD patients using beta-blockers (263 pg/mL) when compared with other (844 pg/mL) (P = 0.023). Compared with IHD, the VHD group showed higher CXCR4 (P = 0.071) and CXCR7 (P = 0.082) mRNA expression although no difference in the level of CXCR4+ bone marrow cells was found between groups (P = 0.360). CONCLUSION: In conclusion, pathophysiological differences between IHD and VHD can affect the molecules involved in the activation of homing. In addition, the use of beta-blockers appears to interfere in this mechanism, a fact that should be considered in protocols that use BMC.

VEGF gene therapy cooperatively recruits molecules from the immune system and stimulates cell homing and angiogenesis in refractory angina.

BACKGROUND: New vessels are formed in response to stimuli from angiogenic factors, a process in which paracrine signaling is fundamental. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the cooperative paracrine signaling profile in response to Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) gene therapy in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and refractory angina. METHOD: A cohort study was conducted in which plasma was collected from patients who underwent gene therapy with a plasmid expressing VEGF 165 (10) and from surgical procedure controls (4). Blood samples were collected from both groups prior to baseline and on days 3, 9 and 27 after the interventions and subjected to systemic analysis of protein expression (Interleukin-6, IL-6; Tumor Necrosis Factor-α, TNF-α; Interleukin-10, IL-10; Stromal Derived Factor-1 α, SDF-1α; VEGF; Angiopoietin-1, ANGPT-1; and Endothelin-1, ET-1) using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS: Analysis showed an increase in proinflammatory IL-6 (p=0.02) and ET-1 (p=0.05) on day 3 after gene therapy and in VEGF (p=0.02) on day 9. A strong positive correlation was found between mobilization of endothelial progenitor cells and TNF-α on day 9 (r=0.71; p=0.03). Furthermore, a strong correlation between ß-blockers, antiplatelets, and vasodilators with SDF-1α baseline in the group undergoing gene therapy was verified (r=0.74; p=0.004). CONCLUSION: Analysis of cooperative paracrine signaling after VEGF gene therapy suggests that the immune system cell and angiogenic molecule expression as well as the endothelial progenitor cell mobilization are time-dependent, influenced by chronic inflammatory process and continuous pharmacological treatment.

Physical activity and cardiovascular risk factors in children: meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effects of physical activity interventions in preventing cardiovascular risk factors in childhood through a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs). METHODS: A search of online databases (PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane CENTRAL) was conducted from inception until June 2013. RCTs enrolling children 6-12years old conducted physical activity interventions longer than 6months, assessing their effect on body mass index (BMI), systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), total cholesterol (TC) and triglycerides (TG) were included. Data analysis was performed using a random-effects model. RESULTS: Of 23.091 articles retrieved, 11 RCTs (10.748 subjects) were included. Physical activity interventions were not associated with reductions of BMI [-0.03kg/m(2) (95%CI -0.16, 0.13) I(2) 0%]. However, there was an association between the interventions and reduction of SBP [-1.25mmHg (95%CI -2.47, -0.02) I(2) 0%], DBP [-1.34mmHg (95%CI -2.57, -0.11) I(2) 43%] and TG [-0.09mmol/L (95%CI -0.14, -0.04) I(2) 0%], and increase of TC [0.14mmol/L (95%CI 0.01, 0.27) I(2) 0%]. CONCLUSION: As physical activity intervention programs lasting longer than 6months are associated with reductions in blood pressure levels and triglycerides, they should be considered to be included in prevention programs for cardiovascular diseases in schoolchildren.

Evaluating the impact of short-term nitrate-rich dietary supplementation on endothelial function in COPD: A randomized crossover study.

AIM: This study aimed to investigate the acute effects of dietary nitrate ingestion through l-arginine supplementation or dehydrated beet consumption on endothelial function in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. The secondary outcome was to analyze arterial stiffness, plasma nitrate, and nitrate/protein concentration. METHODS: In this randomized crossover study, subjects with COPD underwent three series of supplementation: (1) l-arginine, (2) dehydrated beetroot, and (3) a placebo that appeared like the other supplements. Each intervention lasted 14 days, with a 7-day washout period between series. Participants underwent endothelial function assessment using flow-mediated dilatation (FMD), and plasma nitrate levels were measured at the end of each supplementation series. RESULTS: Seventeen subjects (twelve male) completed the study protocol. Only five subjects presented endothelial dysfunction (RHI ≤0.51) at baseline. The mean baseline characteristics included age 66.5 ± 9.4 years, BMI 27.5 ± 4.5 kg/m2, FEV1, 0.79 (0.67-1.06) L. There were no differences (p > 0.05) between the groups or from pre-to post-interventions for RHI and arterial stiffness index (AIx) values, as well as parameters of endothelium-dependent vasodilation, such as blood flow velocity (BFV), shear stress, shear rate, FMD (mm), and FMD%. There was also no differences (p > 0.05) between the groups or from pre-to post-interventions plasma nitrate levels. CONCLUSIONS: Acute dietary supplementation with nitrates, at the doses provided, did not show a significant improvement in endothelial function assessed by FMD, EndoPAT, or plasma nitrate levels in COPD. These findings suggest that a higher dose or prolonged supplementation might be required to achieve a therapeutic effect.

Educational interventions in childhood obesity: a systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effectiveness of educational interventions including behavioral modification, nutrition and physical activity to prevent or treat childhood obesity through a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials. METHOD: A search of databases (PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane CENTRAL) and references of published studies (from inception until May 2012) was conducted. Eligible studies were randomized trials enrolling children 6 to 12 years old and assessing the impact of educational interventions during 6 months or longer on waist circumference, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure and lipid profile to prevent or treat childhood obesity. Calculations were performed using a random effects method and pooled-effect estimates were obtained using the final values. RESULTS: Of 22.852 articles retrieved, 26 trials (23.617 participants) were included. There were no differences in outcomes assessed in prevention studies. However, in treatment studies, educational interventions were associated with a significant reduction in waist circumference [-3.21 cm (95%CI -6.34, -0.07)], BMI [-0.86 kg/m(2) (95%CI -1.59, -0.14)] and diastolic blood pressure [-3.68 mmHg (95%CI -5.48, -1.88)]. CONCLUSIONS: Educational interventions are effective in treatment, but not prevention, of childhood obesity and its consequences.

PEEP-ZEEP Compared with Bag Squeezing and Chest Compression in Mechanically Ventilated Cardiac Patients: Randomized Crossover Clinical Trial.

Background and Objectives: Perform the bag squeezing and PEEP-ZEEP techniques associated with manual chest compression in mechanically ventilated cardiac patients in order to observe their effectiveness in the removal of pulmonary secretions and safety from a hemodynamic and ventilatory point of view. Methods: This is a randomized crossover clinical trial developed in a hospital in southern Brazil. We included hemodynamically stable male and female patients aged over 18 years who used invasive mechanical ventilation for at least 48 h. The control group was established for the bag-squeezing technique and the intervention group for the PEEP-ZEEP maneuver, both associated with manual chest compression. Tracheal aspiration was performed 2 h before in order to match the groups in relation to the volume of secretion, and also immediately at the end of the techniques in order to measure the amount of secretion collected. Results: The sample had 36 individuals with a mean age of 70.3 years, 21% of the patients were male, and the majority (10.4%) were hospitalized for ischemic heart disease. DBP (p = 0.024), MAP (p = 0.004) and RR (p = 0.041) showed a significant difference in the post-moment in both groups. There was a significant difference in the reduction of peak pressure values (p = 0.011), in the moment after performing the techniques, and also in the Cdyn (p = 0.004) in the control group versus moment. Conclusions: Both maneuvers are safe in terms of hemodynamics and ventilatory mechanics, in addition to being capable of favoring airway clearance through secretion removal, and they can be used in routine physiotherapeutic care.

Pulmonary and Functional Rehabilitation Improves Functional Capacity, Pulmonary Function and Respiratory Muscle Strength in Post COVID-19 Patients: Pilot Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: Patients affected by COVID-19 may develop an impaired lung function, with reduced lung capacities and volumes, respiratory muscle weakness, changes in radiographic and tomographic findings, limitations in exercising, decreased functional capacity, depression, anxiety and reduced quality of life. Thus, we aimed to analyze the effects of a pulmonary and functional rehabilitation program on the functional capacity, lung function and respiratory muscle strength in patients who were affected by COVID-19 syndrome. METHODS: This is a pilot clinical trial, composed of post-COVID-19 patients with mild, moderate or severe involvement, in which, they underwent a pulmonary and functional rehabilitation program. Patients were evaluated for functional capacity by the 6 min walk test, pulmonary function by spirometry, respiratory muscle strength by manovacuometry, handgrip strength by dynamometry, quality of life by the COPD Assessment Test and functional status by the PCFS. After the initial assessments, the patients performed the rehabilitation protocol in 16 sessions (inspiratory muscle training, aerobic exercise and peripheral muscle strength) and, at the end, they were evaluated again. RESULTS: A total of 29 patients completed the program (12.7 ± 2.7 sessions). The functional capacity increased in meters walked from 326.3 ± 140.6 to 445.4 ± 151.1 (p < 0.001), with an increase in the predicted value from 59.7% to 82.6% (p < 0.001). The lung function increased in liters from 2.9 ± 0.8 to 3.2 ± 0.8 (p = 0.004) for forced vital capacity and from 2.5 ± 0.7 to 2.7 ± 0.7 (p = 0.001) for forced expiratory volume in the first second. The respiratory muscle strength increased in cmH2O from 101.4 ± 46.3 to 115.8 ± 38.3 (p = 0.117) for inspiratory pressure and from 85.8 ± 32.8 to 106.7 ± 36.8 (p < 0.001) for expiratory pressure. CONCLUSIONS: The pulmonary and functional rehabilitation program provided an improvement in the functional capacity, pulmonary function and respiratory muscle strength in post-COVID-19 patients, restoring their quality of life.

Ventilator versus manual hyperinflation in adults receiving mechanical ventilation: A systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Manual hyperinflation (MHI) or with a mechanical ventilator (VHI) are alternatives in bronchial hygiene therapy, in recent years several studies have emerged with the objective of verifying the effectiveness and safety of the techniques. OBJECTIVE: Systematically review and analyze the most recent studies in the literature on MHI and VHI, compare both techniques and demonstrate their effectiveness in bronchial hygiene therapy in mechanically ventilated patients. METHODS: We conducted this systematic review based on the PICO strategy and used the databases Ovid, LILACS, CINAHL, Pubmed and CENTRAL. Search, selection and analysis of randomized controlled trials on MHI, VHI or comparing both techniques. We performed a comparison on secretion elimination, static and dynamic compliance, oxygenation and clinical outcomes. The studies were analyzed by two independent evaluators. RESULTS: Nine articles were selected comparing MHI with usual care, demonstrating improved compliance in the MHI group, but with no impact on secretion removal. Four studies compared VHI with usual care, with three showing increased secretion elimination and compliance in the HVM group. Another four articles compared MHI with VHI but none of the studies showed superiority in terms of elimination of secretion and three studies found improvement in static compliance. CONCLUSION: Both techniques have proven to be effective alternatives to bronchial hygiene therapy.

Ventilatory Muscle Training for Early Cardiac Rehabilitation Improved Functional Capacity and Modulated Vascular Function of Individuals Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background: Cardiac rehabilitation with aerobic exercises is the first strategy for nonpharmacological treatment in the postoperative period of individuals undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) to improve functional capacity and vascular health. However, other exercise modalities remain uncertain regarding the same benefits. Objectives: Evaluation of the effect of different modalities of exercise, such as early cardiac rehabilitation on subjects submitted to CABG in the six-minute walk test (6-MWT) and on the percentage of flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) of the brachial artery. Methods: A randomized clinical trial in which 15 patients (62.7 ± 6.7 years) who underwent CABG were randomly assigned to the following groups: isometric (IG, Handgrip Jamar®), ventilatory muscle training (VG, PowerBreathe®) and control (CG, conventional respiratory and motor physiotherapy). All patients were attended to physically twice a day (20 min/session) for a consecutive week after the CABG (hospital admission). Functional capacity was assessed by 6-MWT and endothelial function was assessed through the technique of FMD, before and after (~7 days) admission to CABG. The doppler ultrasound videos were analyzed by Cardiovascular Suite® software (Quipu, Pisa, Italy) to measure %FMD. Statistics: Generalized estimation equation, followed by Bonferroni post hoc (p < 0.05). Results: Systolic, diastolic and mean arterial pressure (SBP/DBP/MAP, respectively) were 133, 76 and 95 mmHg. The groups presented walking meters (m) distance before and after intervention of: IGbasal 357.80 ± 47.15 m vs. IGpost 306.20 ± 61.63 m, p = 0.401 (+51 m); VGbasal 261.50 ± 19.91 m vs. VGpost 300.75 ± 26.29 m, p = 0.052 (+39 m); CG basal 487.83 ± 83.23 m vs. CGpost 318.00 ± 31.08, p = 0.006 (−169 m). %FMD before and after intervention was IGbasal 10.4 ± 4.8% vs. IGpost 2.8 ± 2.5%, p = 0.152; VGbasal 9.8 ± 5.1% vs. VGpost 11.0 ± 6.1%, p = 0.825; CGbasal 9.2 ± 15.8% vs. CGpost 2.7 ± 2.6%, p = 0.710 and resting mean basal blood flow was IGbasal 162.0 ± 55.0 mL/min vs. IGpost 129.9 ± 63.7 mL/min, p = 0.662; VGbasal 83.74 ± 12.4 mL/min vs. VGpost 58.7 ± 17.1 mL/min, p = 0.041; CGbasal 375.6 ± 183.7 mL/min vs. CGpost 192.8 ± 115.0 mL/min, p = 0.459. Conclusions: Ventilatory muscle training for early cardiac rehabilitation improved acute functional capacity and modulated mean flow of individuals undergoing CABG.

Effects of Different Types of Exercise Training on Endothelial Function in Prehypertensive and Hypertensive Individuals: A Systematic Review. / Efeitos de Diferentes Tipos de Treinamento Físico na Função Endotelial em Pré-Hipertensos e Hipertensos: Uma Revisão Sistemática.

BACKGROUND: Sustained high blood pressure can lead to vascular remodeling and endothelial cell injury, which may explain the endothelial dysfunction found in hypertensive individuals. Exercise training can improve vascular health in individuals with cardiovascular risk, but little is known about its effects in prehypertensive and hypertensive individuals. OBJECTIVE: To review the literature showing evidence of changes in endothelial function in response to different modalities of exercise training in prehypertensive and hypertensive individuals. METHODS: We conducted a systematic review of studies in the MEDLINE, Cochrane, LILACS, EMBASE, and SciELO databases following both the PRISMA guidelines (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) and the PICO framework (patient/population, intervention, comparison and outcomes). Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published up to April 2019 were selected and assessed by four independent reviewers. The methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database) scale. RESULTS: Our search yielded 598 abstracts, and 10 studies were eligible for review. All of them had acceptable methodological quality by PEDro scale. Of the 10 studies, 7 involved aerobic training, 1 isometric resistance training, and 2 aerobic training and dynamic resistance training separately. Seven studies used flow-mediated dilation (FMD) to assess the vascular health, and three used plethysmography. Most training protocols involved hypertensive individuals and consisted of low and moderate-intensity exercise. CONCLUSION: Our systematic review showed that moderate continuous aerobic training is effective to improve vascular health in hypertensive individuals. In prehypertensive individuals, vigorous interval aerobic training seems to be an alternative to determine vascular health benefits. Resistance exercise training, either isometric or dynamic, can be used as a secondary alternative, but still requires further investigation.

FUNDAMENTO: A hipertensão sustentada pode levar ao remodelamento vascular e lesão das células endoteliais, o que pode explicar a disfunção endotelial encontrada em hipertensos. O treinamento físico pode melhorar a saúde vascular em indivíduos com risco cardiovascular, mas pouco se sabe sobre seus efeitos em pré-hipertensos e hipertensos. OBJETIVO: Revisar a literatura mostrando evidências de alterações da função endotelial em resposta a diferentes modalidades de treinamento físico em pré-hipertensos e hipertensos. MÉTODOS: Realizamos uma revisão sistemática de estudos nas bases de dados MEDLINE, Cochrane, LILACS, EMBASE e SciELO seguindo tanto as diretrizes PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyzes) quanto a estratégia PICO (paciente/população, intervenção, comparação e resultados). Os ensaios clínicos randomizados (ECRs) publicados até abril de 2019 foram selecionados e avaliados por quatro revisores independentes. A qualidade metodológica foi avaliada por meio da escala PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database). RESULTADOS: Nossa busca rendeu 598 resumos, e 10 estudos foram elegíveis para revisão. Todos eles apresentaram qualidade metodológica aceitável pela escala PEDro. Dos 10 estudos, 7 envolveram treinamento aeróbico, 1 treinamento resistido isométrico e 2 treinamento aeróbico e treinamento resistido dinâmico separadamente. Sete estudos usaram dilatação fluxo-mediada (DFM) para avaliar a saúde vascular, e três usaram pletismografia. A maioria dos protocolos de treinamento envolveu indivíduos hipertensos e consistiu em exercícios de baixa e moderada intensidade. CONCLUSÃO: Nossa revisão sistemática mostrou que o treinamento aeróbico contínuo moderado é eficaz para melhorar a saúde vascular em indivíduos hipertensos. Em pré-hipertensos, o treinamento aeróbico intervalado vigoroso parece ser uma alternativa para benefícios à saúde vascular. O treinamento físico resistido isométrico ou dinâmico pode ser usado como alternativa secundária, mas ainda requer mais investigação.

Effects of Hydroxychloroquine on endOthelial function in eLDerly with sleep apnea (HOLD): study protocol for a randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Sleep apnea and coronary artery disease are prevalent and relevant diseases. The mechanism by which sleep apnea leads to coronary artery disease remains unclear. Intermittent hypoxia, caused by sleep apnea, leads to inflammation and consequent endothelial dysfunction. Endothelial dysfunction precedes the development of atherosclerotic disease and the occurrence of cardiovascular events. Agents that potentially act to improve endothelial function can help prevent cardiovascular events. Patients using immunomodulators due to rheumatic diseases have a lower prevalence of cardiovascular diseases. However, the potential cardioprotective effect of these drugs in patients without autoimmune diseases is not clear. Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is an immunomodulator used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, HCQ reduces cholesterol and blood glucose levels and has antithrombotic effects. The drug is inexpensive and widely available. Adverse effects of HCQ are rare and occur more frequently with high doses. OBJECTIVE: In this randomized clinical trial, the effect of HCQ treatment on endothelial function will be tested in seniors with sleep apnea. METHODS: We will recruit participants over the age of 65 and with moderate-severe sleep apnea from an ongoing cohort. We chose to use this sample already evaluated for sleep apnea for reasons of convenience, but also because the elderly with sleep apnea are vulnerable to heart disease. Endothelial function will be assessed by examining flow-mediated dilation of the brachial artery, the gold standard method, considered an independent predictor of cardiovascular events in the general population and by peripheral arterial tonometry, the most recent and most easily obtained method. Hydroxychloroquine will be used at a dose of 400 mg/daily for 8 weeks. DISCUSSION: Our study aims to obtain evidence, albeit preliminary, of the efficacy of hydroxychloroquine in improving endothelial function and reducing cardiovascular risk markers. If the improvement occurs, we plan to design a randomized multicenter clinical trial to confirm the findings. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04161339 . Registered on November 2019.

Individuals with controlled hypertension show endothelial integrity following a bout of moderate-intensity exercise: randomized clinical trial.

To examine the acute effects of aerobic exercise (AE), resistance exercise (RE) or combined exercise (CE) on flow-mediated dilation (FMD), progenitor cells (PCs), endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), oxidative stress markers and endothelial-cell derived microvesicles (EMVs) in patients with hypertension. This is a randomized, parallel-group clinical trial involving an intervention of one session of three different modalities of exercise. Thirty-three males (43 ± 2y) were randomly divided into three groups: a session of AE (n = 11, 40 min, cycle ergometer, 60% HRR); a session of RE (n = 11, 40 min, 4 × 12 lower limb repetitions, 60% 1-RM); or a session of CE (n = 11, 20-min RE + 20-min AE). FMD was assessed 10 min before and 10, 40 and 70 min post-intervention. Blood samples were collected at the same time points (except 40 min). FMD were similar in all groups and from baseline (within each group) after a single exercise bout (AE, RE or CE). At 70 min, RE group showed higher levels of PCs compared to the AE (81%) and CE group (60%). PC levels were reduced from baseline in all groups (AE: 32%, p = 0.037; RE: 15%, p = 0.003; CE: 17%, p = 0.048). The levels of EPCs, EMVs and oxidative stress were unchanged. There were no acute effects of moderate-intensity exercise on FMD, EPCs, EMVs and oxidative stress, but PCs decreased regardless of the exercise modality. Individuals with controlled hypertension do not seem to have impaired vascular function in response to a single exercise bout.