Efectividad de un programa de rehabilitación cardiopulmonar en trabajadores de la salud con infección por COVID-19 / Changes in functional and cardiopulmonary outcomes in patients with COVID-19 infection after a cardiopulmonary rehabilitation program

Resumen Objetivo: evaluar, en una población trabajadora de la salud con COVID-19, la gravedad de la enfermedad y el impacto de un programa de rehabilitación cardiopulmonar ambulatorio fase II basado en ejercicio, en la capacidad funcional, la función medida con la Escala de Estado Funcional posCOVID y el reintegro laboral. Materiales y método: se realizó un estudio cuasiexperimental en 48 trabajadores de la salud con infección por COVID-19. Al inicio y al final se les evaluó gravedad de la infección, función cardiopulmonar y escala de estado funcional post-COVID-19 (PCFS). Se hizo un programa de rehabilitación cardiopulmonar con tres sesiones semanales de ejercicio continuo e interválico individualizado, con una duración de 20 a 60 minutos y una intensidad del 60 al 80% de la frecuencia cardíaca máxima durante un mes. Resultados: hubo 19 casos moderados y 29 graves. La edad promedio fue 54 (DE: 15.5) años, 41.7% eran empleados, 47.9% obesos y 39.6% hipertensos. El 68.8% tuvo neumonía típica, el 29.2% estrés postraumático, el 43.8% síndrome depresivo y el 50% trastornos de ansiedad. La capacidad cardiopulmonar pasó de NYHA II (5.7 DE: 1.2) a NYHA I (8.2: DE: 2.0). Mejoró la independencia en actividades de la vida diaria (ADV) (escala PCFS) y 36 pacientes regresaron a su trabajo. No hubo complicaciones graves. Conclusión: este estudio demostró el impacto positivo de un programa de rehabilitación cardiopulmonar en la función cardiopulmonar y la independencia en actividades diarias e instrumentales en trabajadores de la salud con COVID-19, pues un 75% de estos regresó a sus labores habituales.

Abstract Objective: to evaluate, in a health worker population with COVID-19, the severity of the disease and the impact of an outpatient phase II PRCP based on exercise, on functional capacity, function measured with the post-COVID Functional Status Scale and job reinstatement. Materials and method: a quasi-experimental study was conducted involving 48 healthcare workers with COVID-19. Severity of infection, cardiopulmonary function, and PCFS were assessed at the beginning and end. The CPRP included a program of three weekly sessions of individualized continuous and interval exercises lasting 20 to 60 minutes, with an intensity of 60 to 80% of maximum heart rate over one month. Results: there were 19 moderate cases and 29 severe cases. The average age was 54 (SD: 15.5) years, with 41.7% being employees, 47.9% obese, and 39.6% hypertensive, 68.8% had typical pneumonia, 29.2% experienced post-traumatic stress, 43.8% had depressive syndrome, and 50% had anxiety disorders. Cardiopulmonary capacity improved from NYHA II (5.7 SD: 1.2) to NYHA I (8.2 SD: 2.0). Independence in activities of daily living (PCFS scale) improved and 36 patients returned to work. There were no severe complications. Conclusion: This study demonstrated a positive impact of the CPRP on cardiopulmonary function and independence in daily and instrumental activities among healthcare workers with COVID-19, with 75% returning to their regular duties.

Upper-Body Muscular Endurance and Its Association with Aerobic Capacity in University Students of Physical Culture, Sport, and Recreation / Fuerza resistencia de miembros superiores y su asociación con la capacidad aeróbica en universitarios de cultura física, deporte y recreación / Resistência Muscular do Corpo Superior e sua Associação com Capacidade Aeróbica em Estudantes Universitários de Cultura Física, Esporte e Recreação

Abstract Introduction: Upper-body muscular endurance (UBME) and aerobic capacity (AC) are essential components of physical fitness. Low levels of these components are related to cardiovascular disease. Purpose: To assess the association between UBME and AC levels in college students of physical culture. Methodology: Analytical cross-sectional study carried out in 192 students (169 men, 23 women; median age 20 years). Every participant of the study signed written consent. UMBE was the dependent variable assessed by the push-up test, and AC was the main independent variable assessed using the 20 m shuttle run test. To analyze differences by sex, and academic semester, Fischer exact, Student's T, and U Mann-Whitney tests were applied. Descriptive, as well as bivariate and multivariate analysis, were realized using logistic regression models. Results: 82.29 % of participants had healthy levels of UBME. Respecting the academic semester, students had a higher probability of having healthy levels of UBME as semesters increased (OR: 1.23, 95 % CI: 1.06 to 1.44, p = 0.007). Concerning AC, 58.33 % of participants registered healthy levels. After adjusting by sex, age, socioeconomic level, and academic semester, maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max), was associated with healthy levels of UBME (OR: 1.157, CI 95 %: 1.O71 - 1.249, p=<0.001). Conclusions: Students had a higher probability of presenting healthy levels of UBME as semesters of study increased, and those with a higheVO2max were more likely to have healthy levels of UBME.

Resumen Introducción: La fuerza resistencia de miembros superiores (FRMS) y la capacidad aeróbica (CA) son componentes esenciales de la condición física. Bajos niveles de estos componentes están relacionados con la enfermedad cardiovascular. Propósito: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la asociación entre los niveles de FRMS y la CA en estudiantes universitarios de cultura física. Metodología: Estudio transversal analítico realizado en 192 estudiantes (169 hombres, 23 mujeres; mediana de edad, 20 años). Cada participante firmó el consentimiento informado. FRMS fue la variable dependiente y se valoró con la prueba de flexiones de brazo, y la CA fue la variable independiente y se evaluó usando la prueba de ida y vuelta de 20 m. Para analizar las diferencias por sexo y semestre académico, fueron utilizadas las pruebas exacta de Fischer, T de Student y U de Mann-Whitney. Se realizaron análisis descriptivos, bivariados y múltiples, usando modelos de regresión logística. Resultados: El 82.29 % de los participantes registraron niveles saludables de FRMS. Respecto al semestre académico, se evidenció una probabilidad más alta de tener niveles saludables de FRMS al incrementarse los semestres de estudio (OR: 1.23, 95 % CI: 1.06 to 1.44, p = 0.007). En lo concerniente a la CA, el 58.33 % de los participantes registro niveles saludables. Después de realizar ajustes por sexo, edad, nivel socioeconómico y semestre académico, el consumo máximo de oxígeno (VO2máx), estuvo asociado con niveles saludables de FRMS (OR: 1.157, CI 95 % 1.O71 - 1.249, p=<0.001). Conclusiones: Los participantes presentaron una mayor probabilidad de tener niveles saludables de FRMS, a medida que incrementaron los semestres de estudio, y aquellos con niveles de VO2máx más alto, fueron más proclives a tener niveles saludables de FRMS.

Resumo Introdução: A resistência muscular do corpo superior (UBME) e a capacidade aeróbica (AC) são componentes essenciais da aptidão física. Baixos níveis desses componentes estão relacionados a doenças cardiovasculares. Propósito: Avaliar a associação entre os níveis de UBME e AC em estudantes universitários de cultura física. Metodologia: Estudo transversal analítico realizado com 192 estudantes (169 homens, 23 mulheres; idade média 20 anos). Todos os participantes do estudo assinaram consentimento por escrito. UBME foi a variável dependente avaliada pelo teste de flexão de braço, e AC foi a principal variável independente avaliada pelo teste de corrida de vaivém de 20 m. Para analisar diferenças por sexo e semestre acadêmico, foram aplicados testes exatos de Fischer, t de Student e U de MannWhitney. Análises descritivas, bivariadas e multivariadas foram realizadas usando modelos de regressão logística. Resultados: 82,29 % dos participantes apresentaram níveis saudáveis de UBME. Respeitando o semestre acadêmico, os estudantes tiveram uma probabilidade maior de ter níveis saudáveis de UBME conforme os semestres aumentavam (OR: 1,23, IC 95 %: 1,06 a 1,44, p = 0,007). Em relação à AC, 58,33 % dos participantes registraram níveis saudáveis. Após ajuste por sexo, idade, nível socioeconômico e semestre acadêmico, o consumo máximo de oxigênio (VO2max) foi associado a níveis saudáveis de UBME (OR: 1,157, IC 95 %: 1,071 - 1,249, p <0,001). Conclusões: Os estudantes tiveram uma probabilidade maior de apresentar níveis saudáveis de UBME conforme os semestres de estudo aumentaram, e aqueles com um VO2max mais alto tiveram maior probabilidade de ter níveis saudáveis de UBME.

Ineficiência Ventilatória Comparável no Desempenho Máximo e Submáximo em Indivíduos com DPOC e ICC: Uma Abordagem Inovadora / Comparable Ventilatory Inefficiency at Maximal and Submaximal Performance in COPD vs. CHF subjects: An Innovative Approach

Resumo Fundamento: Atualmente, o excesso de ventilação tem sido fundamentado na relação entre ventilação-minuto/produção de dióxido de carbono ( V ˙ E − V ˙ CO 2). Alternativamente, uma nova abordagem para eficiência ventilatória ( η E V ˙) tem sido publicada. Objetivo: Nossa hipótese principal é que níveis comparativamente baixos de η E V ˙ entre insuficiência cardíaca crônica (ICC) e doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC) são atingíveis para um nível semelhante de desempenho aeróbico máximo e submáximo, inversamente aos métodos estabelecidos há muito tempo (inclinação V ˙ E − V ˙ CO 2 e intercepto). Métodos: Ambos os grupos realizaram testes de função pulmonar, ecocardiografia e teste de exercício cardiopulmonar. O nível de significância adotada na análise estatística foi 5%. Assim, dezenove indivíduos elegíveis para DPOC e dezenove indivíduos elegíveis para ICC completaram o estudo. Com o objetivo de contrastar valores completos de V ˙ E − V ˙ CO 2 e η E V ˙ para o período de exercício (100%), correlações foram feitas com frações menores, como 90% e 75% dos valores máximos. Resultados: Os dois grupos tiveram características correspondentes para a idade (62±6 vs 59±9 anos, p>.05), sexo (10/9 vs 14/5, p>0,05), IMC (26±4 vs 27±3 Kg m2, p>0,05), e pico V ˙ O 2 (72±19 vs 74±20 % pred, p>0,05), respectivamente. A inclinação V ˙ E − V ˙ CO 2 e intercepto foram significativamente diferentes para DPOC e ICC (207,2±1,4 vs 33,1±5,7 e 5,3±1,9 vs 1,7±3,6, p<0,05 para ambas), mas os valores médios da η E V ˙ foram semelhantes entre os grupos (10,2±3,4 vs 10,9±2,3%, p=0,462). As correlações entre 100% do período do exercício com 90% e 75% dele foram mais fortes para η E V ˙ (r>0,850 para ambos). Conclusão: A η E V ˙ é um método valioso para comparação entre doenças cardiopulmonares, com mecanismos fisiopatológicos até agora distintos, incluindo restrições ventilatórias na DPOC.

Abstract Background: Currently, excess ventilation has been grounded under the relationship between minute-ventilation/carbon dioxide output ( V ˙ E − V ˙ CO 2). Alternatively, a new approach for ventilatory efficiency ( η E V ˙) has been published. Objective: Our main hypothesis is that comparatively low levels of η E V ˙ between chronic heart failure (CHF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are attainable for a similar level of maximum and submaximal aerobic performance, conversely to long-established methods ( V ˙ E − V ˙ CO 2 slope and intercept). Methods: Both groups performed lung function tests, echocardiography, and cardiopulmonary exercise testing. The significance level adopted in the statistical analysis was 5%. Thus, nineteen COPD and nineteen CHF-eligible subjects completed the study. With the aim of contrasting full values of V ˙ E − V ˙ CO 2 and η V ˙ E for the exercise period (100%), correlations were made with smaller fractions, such as 90% and 75% of the maximum values. Results: The two groups attained matched characteristics for age (62±6 vs. 59±9 yrs, p>.05), sex (10/9 vs. 14/5, p>0.05), BMI (26±4 vs. 27±3 Kg m2, p>0.05), and peak V ˙ O 2 (72±19 vs. 74±20 %pred, p>0.05), respectively. The V ˙ E − V ˙ CO 2 slope and intercept were significantly different for COPD and CHF (27.2±1.4 vs. 33.1±5.7 and 5.3±1.9 vs. 1.7±3.6, p<0.05 for both), but η V ˙ E average values were similar between-groups (10.2±3.4 vs. 10.9±2.3%, p=0.462). The correlations between 100% of the exercise period with 90% and 75% of it were stronger for η V ˙ E (r>0.850 for both). Conclusion: The η V ˙ E is a valuable method for comparison between cardiopulmonary diseases, with so far distinct physiopathological mechanisms, including ventilatory constraints in COPD.

Adaptation and reliability of tests of functional mobility and muscle strength using telehealth for older people with dementia / Adaptação e confiabilidade de testes de mobilidade funcional e força muscular para idosos com demência por meio de telessaúde

Objective: Adapt functional mobility and muscle strength tests for older people with dementia to be performed remotely in the home environment; determine intra-rater and inter-rater reliability of functional mobility and strength tests for older people with dementia; and correlate the performance on the physical tests executed remotely and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, which was validated remotely in healthy older people. Methods: We included 43 people with dementia. The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), TUG, TUG Dual Task (TUG-DT), and 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test (SST30s) were performed through videocalls. Test performance was documented to facilitate the subsequent determination of inter- and intra-rater reliability. The intra-rater reliability was determined at a 2-week interval from the real-time videocall to analysis of the recording. Results: Intra-rater reliability ranged from good to excellent for all tests performed (ICC 0.862­1.000). Inter-rater reliability values were fair for gait speed (ICC = 0.223), moderate for some of the SPPB items (ICC = 0.706­0.801), good for the SPPB two-foot balance (ICC = 0.860) and the SPPB total score (ICC = 0.831), and excellent for the rest of the tests. Conclusion: Functional mobility and muscle strength tests proved reliable and feasible for remote, at-home assessments of older people with dementia when assisted by their respective caregivers, providing an additional alternative for assessment of this patient population. (AU)

Mapeamento do Potencial da Superfície Corporal durante a Despolarização Ventricular em Atletas com Intervalo PQ Prolongado após Exercício / Body Surface Potential Mapping during Ventricular Depolarization in Athletes with Prolonged PQ Interval after Exercise

Resumo Fundamento: O prolongamento do intervalo PQ, geralmente associado a um atraso na condução atrioventricular, pode estar relacionado a alterações na propagação do impulso intraventricular. Objetivo: Avaliar, por meio do mapeamento do potencial de superfície corporal (BSPM), o processo de despolarização ventricular em atletas com intervalos PQ prolongados em repouso e após o exercício. Métodos: O estudo incluiu 7 esquiadores cross-country com intervalo PQ superior a 200 ms (grupo PQ Prolongado) e 7 com intervalo PQ inferior a 200 ms (grupo PQ Normal). O BSPM de 64 derivações unipolares do tronco foi realizado antes (Pré-Ex) e após o teste ergométrico de bicicleta (Pós-Ex). Mapas equipotenciais da superfície corporal foram analisados durante a despolarização ventricular. O nível de significância foi de 5%. Resultados: Comparado com atletas com PQ Normal, o primeiro e o segundo períodos de posição estável dos potenciais cardíacos na superfície do tronco foram mais longos, e a formação da distribuição de potencial "sela" ocorreu mais tarde, no Pré-Ex, nos atletas com PQ Prolongado. No Pós-Ex, o grupo PQ Prolongado apresentou um encurtamento do primeiro e segundo períodos de distribuições de potencial estáveis e uma diminuição no tempo de aparecimento do fenômeno "sela" em relação ao Pré-Ex (para valores próximos aos do Normal -Grupo PQ). Além disso, no Pós-Ex, a primeira inversão das distribuições de potencial e a duração total da despolarização ventricular em atletas com PQ Prolongado diminuíram em comparação com o Pré-Ex e com valores semelhantes em atletas com PQ Normal. Em comparação com atletas com PQ Normal, a segunda inversão foi mais longa no Pré-Ex e Pós-Ex em atletas com PQ Prolongado. Conclusão: Atletas com PQ prolongado apresentaram diferenças significativas nas características temporais do BSPM durante a despolarização ventricular, tanto em repouso quanto após o exercício, em comparação com atletas com PQ normal.

Abstract Background: Prolongation of the PQ interval, generally associated with an atrioventricular conduction delay, may be related to changes in intraventricular impulse spreading. Objective: To assess, using body surface potential mapping (BSPM), the process of ventricular depolarization in athletes with prolonged PQ intervals at rest and after exercise. Methods: The study included 7 cross-country skiers with a PQ interval of more than 200 ms (Prolonged-PQ group) and 7 with a PQ interval of less than 200 ms (Normal-PQ group). The BSPM from 64 unipolar torso leads was performed before (Pre-Ex) and after the bicycle exercise test (Post-Ex). Body surface equipotential maps were analyzed during ventricular depolarization. The significance level was 5%. Results: Compared to Normal-PQ athletes, the first and second periods of the stable position of cardiac potentials on the torso surface were longer, and the formation of the "saddle" potential distribution occurred later, at Pre-Ex, in Prolonged-PQ athletes. At Post-Ex, the Prolonged-PQ group showed a shortening of the first and second periods of stable potential distributions and a decrease in appearance time of the "saddle" phenomenon relative to Pre-Ex (to the values near to those of the Normal-PQ group). Additionally, at Post-Ex, the first inversion of potential distributions and the total duration of ventricular depolarization in Prolonged-PQ athletes decreased compared to Pre-Ex and with similar values in Normal-PQ athletes. Compared to Normal-PQ athletes, the second inversion was longer at Pre-Ex and Post-Ex in Prolonged-PQ athletes. Conclusion: Prolonged-PQ athletes had significant differences in the temporal characteristics of BSPM during ventricular depolarization both at rest and after exercise as compared to Normal-PQ athletes.

Application evaluation of cardiopulmonary exercise test to guide comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with pneumoconiosis / 环境与职业医学

Background At present, the practice of pulmonary rehabilitation for pneumoconiosis in China is in a primary stage. The basis for formulating an individualized comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation plan is still insufficient, which is one of the factors limiting the development of community-level rehabilitation work. Objective To formulate an exercise prescription based on maximum heart rate measured by cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET), conduct an individualized comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation program with the exercise prescription for patients with stable pneumoconiosis, and evaluate its role in improving exercise endurance and quality of life, thus provide a basis for the application and promotion of pulmonary rehabilitation. Methods A total of 68 patients were recruited from the Occupational Disease Prevention Hospital of Jinneng Holding Coal Industry Group Co., Ltd. from April to August 2022 , and were divided into an intervention group and a control group by random number table method, with 34 cases in each group. All the pneumoconiosis patients participated in a baseline test. The control group was given routine drug treatment, while the intervention group received multidisciplinary comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation treatment on the basis of routine drug treatment, including health education, breathing training, exercise training, nutrition guidance, psychological intervention, and sleep management, whose exercise intensity was determined according to the maximum heart rate provided by CPET. The rehabilitation training lasted for 24 weeks. Patients were evaluated at registration and the end of study respectively. CPET was used to measure peak oxygen uptake per kilogram (pVO2/kg), anaerobic threshold (AT), carbon dioxide equivalent of ventilation (EqCO2), maximum metabolic equivalent (METs), and maximum work (Wmax). The modified British Medical Research Council Dyspnea Questionnaire (mMRC), Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Assessment Test (CAT), and Short Form of Health Survey (SF-36) were used to evaluate the potential effect of the comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation program. Results Among the included 68 patients, 63 patients were having complete data, then 31 cases were assigned in the control group and 32 cases in the interventional group. Before the intervention, there was no significant difference in pVO2/kg, AT, EqCO2, METs, or Wmax between the two groups (P>0.05). At the end of the trail, the indicators like pVO2/kg [(19.81±2.38) mL·(min·kg)−1], AT [(14.48±2.33) mL·(min·kg)−1], METs (5.64±0.69), and Wmax [(85.25±14) W] of patients in the intervention group were all higher than those [(13.90±2.37) mL·(min·kg)−1, (11.70±1.94) mL·(min kg)−1, (3.97±0.70), and (61.77±14.72) W, respectively] in the control group (P<0.001); there was no significant difference in EqCO2 between the two groups (P=0.083). Before the trial, there was no significant difference in mMRC, SAS, SDS, PSQI, or CAT scores between the two groups (P>0.05). At the end of the trail, the mMRC score (1.16±0.57), SAS score (27.93±2.12), SDS score (26.48±1.44), PSQI score (1.08±0.88), and CAT score (4.34±3.28) of patients in the intervention group were lower than those [(2.03±0.83), (35.87±6.91), (34.23±6.65), (5.37±3.03), and (13.87±7.53), respectively] in the control group (P<0.001). The SF-36 scores of bodily pain (94.13±10.72), general health (87.50±5.68), vitality (95.31±5.53), mental health (99.88±0.71), and health changes (74.22±4.42) in the intervention group were higher than those [(71.87±32.72), (65.81±15.55), (74.52±16.45), (86.97±16.56), and (29.84±13.50), respectively] in the control group (P<0.001), and no significant difference was found in social functioning and role emotional scores (P>0.05). Conclusion Comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation can increase the oxygen intake and exercise endurance of pneumoconiosis patients, ameliorate dyspnea symptoms, elevate psychological state and sleep quality, and improve the quality of life.

Effects of mask-wearing exercise on heart rate,blood oxygen saturation and end-expiratory carbon dioxide:a Meta-analysis / 中国组织工程研究

OBJECTIVE:Masks are one of the most important defenses against the virus.However,the impact of wearing masks during daily activities or sports on respiratory and circulatory function remains controversial.A comprehensive quantitative evaluation of the effects of mask-wearing on human heart rate,oxygen saturation and end-expiratory carbon dioxide by Meta-analysis was conducted.The effects of wearing different types of masks at different exercise intensities and time of exercise on the human respiratory and circulatory system were explored. METHODS:By February 2023,with"mask,face mask,N95,training,sports,running,walking,cycling"as the Chinese search terms and"masks,respiratory protective devices,N95 respirators,surgical face masks,exercise,resistance training,explosive training,muscle exercises"as English search terms,the experimental studies addressing the influence of exercise with a mask on hemodynamic indexes were retrieved from CNKI,Web of Science,PubMed,Cochrane Library and WanFang databases.The outcome indicators included three continuous variables-exercise center rate,blood oxygen saturation and end-expiratory carbon dioxide.Stata16.0 software was used to analyze the outcome indicators of the included literature.The PEDro scale was used as a quality assessment tool,and the funnel plot was used to analyze the impact of publication bias. RESULTS:Totally 25 articles involving 857 healthy children and adults were included in this Meta-analysis.The overall methodological quality was high,with 22 studies scoring 6 points on the PEDro scale,2 studies scoring 7 points and 1 study scoring 8 points.The meta-analysis results showed that compared with the control group,exercise with masks had no significant effect on heart rate(SMD=0.02,95%CI:-0.11 to 0.15,P=0.81),but increased end-expiratory carbon dioxide(SMD=0.60,95%CI:0.37 to 0.83,P=0.00),decreased oxygen saturation(SMD=-0.28,95%CI:-0.47 to-0.09,P=0.03).Intensity and duration were the factors that affected the heterogeneity between studies.Wearing a mask during high-intensity exercise significantly increased heart rate(SMD=-0.20,95%CI:-0.36 to-0.04,P=0.02).The effect of high-intensity and short-time exercise on blood oxygen saturation was significantly higher than that of other exercises(SMD=-0.40,95%CI:-0.70 to-0.10;SMD=-0.25,95%CI:-0.45 to-0.04).For end-expiratory carbon dioxide,maintaining a certain intensity and increasing the exercise time or increasing the intensity further increased the index significantly,reaching a moderate effect size(SMD=0.61,95%CI:0.06 to 1.15;SMD=0.58,95%CI:0.04 to 1.13). CONCLUSION:Existing evidence suggests that exercise with masks may have the adverse effect of increasing end-expiratory carbon dioxide and decreasing blood oxygen saturation.The influence of different exercise test time and intensities on the three outcome indexes was different.Wearing a mask during high-intensity exercise can significantly increase heart rate and decrease blood oxygen saturation.Maintaining moderate intensity for a long period or further increasing the intensity of exercise will lead to increased end-expiratory carbon dioxide levels.

Chronotropic incompetence is associated with reduced aerobic conditioning and sedentary behavior in patients with post-acute COVID-19 syndrome

ABSTRACT Post-acute COVID-19 syndrome, or long COVID, presents with persistent symptoms, including cough, dyspnea, and fatigue, extending beyond one month after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Cardiac complications such as chest pain and arrhythmias have raised concerns, with chronotropic incompetence (CI), an inadequate heart rate increase during exercise, emerging as a significant condition contributing to diminished exercise tolerance and quality of life. This study estimated the prevalence of CI and explored its association with aerobic capacity and physical activity levels in long COVID patients. A cross-sectional study was conducted at a private hospital in Sergipe, Brazil, involving 93 patients over 18 years old with persistent post-COVID-19 symptoms after confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections. Exclusion criteria included beta-blocker use, inadequate respiratory exchange ratio, and inability to complete cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). Clinical histories, CPET results, and chronotropic index calculation were used to identify CI, with logistic regression analyzing associated factors. Of the participants (mean age 45 years; average duration since COVID-19 diagnosis 120 days), 20.4% were diagnosed with CI. Logistic regression identified a strong association between CI and sedentary behavior (OR 11.80; 95% CI 2.54 to 54.78; p=0.001). Patients with CI showed lower predicted peak heart rates and maximal oxygen uptake. The prevalence of CI among long COVID patients in this study was approximately 20%, associated with decreased aerobic capacity and increased sedentary behavior. These findings highlight the need for timely diagnosis and therapeutic interventions, including cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, to enhance the quality of life in post-COVID patients with CI. The study's cross-sectional design and its specific context have limited causality inference and generalizability, underscoring the importance of further research in diverse settings.

Cardiorespiratory optimal point in post-COVID-19 patients: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT The varied clinical presentations of SARS-CoV-2 infection have raised concerns about long-term consequences, especially "long-COVID" or "post-COVID-19 syndrome." In this context, the cardiorespiratory optimal point (COP) within the Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test (CPET) emerges as a crucial metric for evaluating functional capacities and detecting cardiovascular and pulmonary anomalies post-COVID-19. This study aimed to assess COP values among post-COVID-19 patients and categorized them based on the initial severity of their disease. In this cross-sectional study conducted in the Northeast Brazil, 80 patients (26 females and 54 males) previously infected with SARS-CoV-2 underwent CPET. We clinically stratified patients into mild, moderate, or severe COVID-19 categories and assessed COP values and other cardiorespiratory metrics. We found differences in the predicted COP between patients with mild and severe COVID-19 (p=0.042). Additionally, patients with moderate and severe COVID-19 record had an average COP value exceeding 22. Other parameters, including respiratory exchange ratio, heart rate, and oxygen uptake efficiency slope, did not differ across the groups. Patients with a history of severe COVID-19 showed altered COP values, suggesting potential discrepancies in cardiovascular and respiratory system integration. The outcomes emphasize the importance of continuous monitoring and assessment of the cardiorespiratory domain for post-COVID-19 patients. Further research is needed to understand the relationship between elevated COP in post-severe COVID-19 and its long-term prognostic implications.

Incremental Ramp Load Protocol to Assess Inspiratory Muscle Endurance in Healthy Individuals: Comparison with Incremental Step Loading Protocol

ABSTRACT Introduction: Protocols for obtaining the maximum threshold pressure have been applied with limited precision to evaluate inspiratory muscle endurance. In this sense, new protocols are needed to allow more reliable measurements. The purpose of the present study was to compare a new incremental ramp load protocol for the evaluation of inspiratory muscle endurance with the most used protocol in healthy individuals. Methods: This was a prospective cross-sectional study carried out in a single center. Ninety-two healthy individuals (43 men [22 ± 3 years] and 49 women [22 ± 3 years]) were randomly allocated to perform: (i) incremental ramp load protocol and (ii) incremental step loading protocol. The sustained pressure threshold (or maximum threshold pressure), maximum threshold pressure/dynamic strength index ratio, time until task failure, as well as difference between the mean heart rate of the last five minutes of baseline and the peak heart rate of the last 30 seconds of each protocol were measured. Results: Incremental ramp load protocol with small increases in the load and starting from minimum values of strength index was able to evaluate the inspiratory muscle endurance through the maximum threshold pressure of healthy individuals. Conclusion: The present study suggests that the incremental ramp load protocol is able to measure maximum threshold pressure in a more thorough way, with less progression and greater accuracy in the load stratification compared to the limited incremental step loading protocol and with a safe and expected cardiovascular response in healthy individuals.

Step tests are feasible, safe, and can be used to evaluate exercise capacity at home after hospitalization for COVID-19 / Os testes do degrau são viáveis, seguros e podem ser utilizados para avaliar a capacidade de exercício no domicílio após hospitalização por COVID-19

Abstract Introduction: Step-based tests are commonly utilized to assess the exercise capacity of individuals with respiratory diseases. However, the feasibility and safety of the step tests have not yet been studied in individuals after COVID-19. Objective: To investigate the feasibility and safety of the six-minute step test (6MST) and the modified incremental step test (MIST) in assessing exercise capacity at home in individuals after hospitalization for COVID-19, and to identify factors associated with performance in these tests. Methods: Cross-sectional multicenter study with individuals hospitalized for COVID-19 fifteen days after hospital discharge. Participants performed spirometry, 6MST, and MIST during a single home visit. Adverse events were registered during and immediately after the tests. Results: Sixty-five participants were studied (50 ± 10 years old, 55% male). The feasibility was 96.9% and the incidence of adverse events was 13.8% in 6MST and 6.2% in MIST. The individuals performed 76.9% of the predicted on the 6MST, with 40% of the participants reaching 80% of the maximum HR and 31% presenting exercise-induced oxygen desaturation. In the MIST, the individuals performed 20% of the predicted, 23% of the participants reached 80% of the maximum heart rate, and 17% presented exercise-induced oxy-gen desaturation. Length of hospital stay and the use of mechanical ventilation were associated with test performance. Conclusion: 6MST and MIST are feasible, safe, and can be used to assess exercise capacity in a home environment in individuals after hospitalization for COVID-19. The performance in these tests was associated with a prolonged hospital stay and the use of mechanical ventilation.

Resumo Introdução: Testes baseados em degraus são comumente utilizados para avaliar a capacidade de exercício de indivíduos com doenças respiratórias. No entanto, a viabilidade e segu-rança dos testes de degrau ainda não foram estudadas em indivíduos após hospitalização por COVID-19. Objetivo: In-vestigar a viabilidade e segurança do teste do degrau de seis minutos (TD6) e do teste do degrau incremental modificado (TDIM) na avaliação da capacidade de exercício no domicílio em indivíduos após hospitalização por COVID-19, e identificar fatores associados ao desempenho nesses testes. Métodos: Estudo transversal multicêntrico com indivíduos internados por COVID-19 quinze dias após a alta hospitalar. Os participantes realizaram espirometria, TD6 e TDIM durante uma única visita domiciliar. Eventos adversos foram registrados durante e ime-diatamente após os testes. Resultados: Foram estudados 65 participantes (50 ± 10 anos, 55% do sexo masculino). A via-bilidade foi de 96,9% e a incidência de eventos adversos foi de 13,8% no 6MST e 6,2% no TDIM. Os indivíduos realizaram 76,9% do previsto no TD6, sendo que 40% dos participantes atingiram 80% da frequência cardíaca máxima e 31% apresen-taram dessaturação de oxigênio induzida pelo exercício. No TDIM, os indivíduos realizaram 20% do previsto, 23% dos participantes atingiram 80% da frequência cardíaca máxima e 17% apresentaram dessaturação de oxigênio induzida pelo exercício. O tempo de internação e o uso de ventilação mecâni-ca estiveram associados ao desempenho do teste. Conclusão: O TD6 e o TDIM são viáveis, seguros e podem ser usados para avaliar a capacidade de exercício em ambiente domiciliar em indivíduos após hospitalização por COVID-19. O desempenho nesses testes esteve associado ao tempo prolongado de internação e ao uso de ventilação mecânica.

Correlation analysis of cardiopulmonary exercise test indices and conditions of overweight patients with obstructive sleep apnea: a retrospective study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The cardiopulmonary function of patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is significantly lower than that of patients with simple snoring and is significantly related to the severity of OSA. Currently, only a few studies have been conducted on cardiopulmonary exercise testing in overweight patients with OSA. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the correlation between cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) indices and the condition of overweight patients with OSA. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective study in Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine. METHODS: This study included 73 hospitalized overweight patients. The patients were divided into no, mild, moderate, and severe OSA groups. Differences in the CPET indices among the four groups were compared. The correlation between the CPET indices and conditions was analyzed. RESULTS: No, mild, moderate, and severe OSA groups had 18 men and 5 women, 11 men and 3 women, 12 men and 2 women, and 21 men and 1 woman, respectively (P > 0.05). No significant difference was observed in resting pulmonary function among the four groups (P > 0.05). In the CPET, the anaerobic threshold, maximum oxygen uptake, and oxygen pulse were significantly lower in the severe OSA group than those in the normal OSA group (P < 0.05). Moreover, CPET indices negatively correlated with the apnea-hypopnea index. CONCLUSION: Changes in CPET indices occurred earlier than changes in resting pulmonary function in patients with OSA. CPET might be a potential method for evaluating the severity of OSA combined with overweight status.

Comparative analysis of health-related fitness in patients with acute versus chronic Chagas disease / Análisis comparativo del estado físico relacionado con la salud en pacientes con enfermedad aguda versus crónica de Chagas

Abstract Introduction. Although Chagas disease causes high levels of morbidity, the muscle function and tolerance to physical activity in Chagas disease patients are still not completely understood. Objective. To compare health-related fitness of patient groups with acute Chagas disease versus chronic Chagas disease. Materials and methods. We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 18 patients. The data were obtained from patient's records, and functional capacity was measured with the six-minute walk test, the peripheral muscle strength with handgrip strength, and respiratory muscle strength using the maximum inspiratory pressure and the maximum expiratory pressure. Results. The 18 patients were divided in two groups: acute Chagas disease (n=9) and chronic Chagas disease (n=9). The distance walked in the six-minute walk test was lower than the predicted distance walked in both groups (p < 0.0001). The maximum expiratory pressure was lower than the predicted one (p = 0.005), and statistically significant for chronic Chagas disease patients (p = 0.02). Heart rate increased faster in the chronic Chagas disease group within the first two minutes of the six-minute walk test (p = 0.04). The sixminute walk test in the acute Chagas disease group presented a strong correlation with peripheral muscle strength (p = 0.012) and maximum inspiratory pressure (p = 0.0142), while in the chronic Chagas disease group, only peripheral muscle strength and maximum inspiratory pressure were correlated (p = 0.0259). Conclusion. The results suggest lowered functional capacity and reduced respiratory and peripheral muscle strength in patients with Chagas disease, although no differences were observed between groups. The early increase in heart rate during exercise in the chronic Chagas disease group implies a greater myocardial overload.

Resumen Introducción. Aunque la enfermedad de Chagas causa gran morbilidad, la función muscular y la tolerancia a la actividad física de estos pacientes aún no se comprenden por completo. Objetivos. Comparar el estado físico relacionado con la salud de pacientes con enfermedad de Chagas aguda versus crónica de Chagas. Materiales y métodos. Se hizo un estudio transversal que incluyó 18 pacientes. La información se obtuvo de los registros de los pacientes. La capacidad funcional se evaluó con la prueba de la caminata de seis minutos, se determinó la fuerza de prensión manual para evaluar los músculos periféricos y se estableció la fuerza de los músculos respiratorios mediante presión inspiratoria máxima y la presión espiratoria máxima. Resultados. Se evaluaron 18 pacientes, nueve con enfermedad de Chagas aguda y nueve con enfermedad de Chagas crónica. La distancia recorrida en la prueba de caminata de seis minutos fue menor que la distancia recorrida predicha en ambos grupos (p < 0,0001). La presión espiratoria máxima fue más baja de lo previsto (forma aguda: p = 0,005; forma crónica: p = 0,02). La frecuencia cardíaca aumentó más rápido en el grupo con enfermedad de Chagas crónica dentro de los primeros dos minutos de la caminata (p = 0,04). La distancia recorrida en el grupo con la forma aguda se correlacionó con la fuerza de prensión manual (p = 0,01) y la presión inspiratoria máxima (p = 0,01). En el grupo con la enfermedad crónica, solo hubo correlación entre la fuerza de presión manual y la presión inspiratoria máxima (p = 0,02). Conclusiones. Los resultados sugirieren disminución de la capacidad funcional y de la fuerza muscular respiratoria y periférica, aunque sin diferencias entre ambos grupos. El aumento de la frecuencia cardiaca en el grupo con enfermedad de Chagas crónica sugiere una mayor sobrecarga miocárdica.

Predição do Consumo de Oxigênio de Pico em Pacientes Cardiopatas com Base no Desempenho no Teste Timed Up and Go / Prediction of Peak Oxygen Consumption in Patients with Heart Disease Based on Performance on the Timed Up and Go Test

Resumo Fundamento A utilização do teste timed up and go (TUG) na avaliação da aptidão cardiorrespiratória em cardiopatas não está bem definida na literatura. Objetivos Testar a associação entre o TUG e o consumo de oxigênio de pico (VO2pico), construir uma equação com base no TUG para prever o VO2pico e determinar um ponto de corte para estimar um VO2pico ≥ 20 mL.kg−1.min−1. Métodos Estudo transversal com 201 indivíduos portadores de doença arterial coronariana ou insuficiência cardíaca, com idade entre 36 e 92 anos, submetidos ao TUG e ao teste cardiopulmonar de exercício. Foram realizadas análises de correlação, curva ROC, regressão linear múltipla e Bland-Altman. Um p < 0,05 foi adotado como significante. Resultados A média de idade da amostra total foi 67 ± 13 anos, e 70% dos participantes eram do sexo masculino. A média de VO2pico foi de 17 ± 6 mL.kg−1.min−1 e a média de desempenho no TUG foi de 7 ± 2,5 segundos. A correlação entre o VO2pico e o TUG foi r = −0,54 (p < 0,001) e R2 de 0,30. Foi desenvolvida a equação com base no TUG: V O 2 pico = 33 , 553 + ( − 0 , 149 ∗ idade ) + ( − 0 , 738 ∗ T U G ) + ( − 2 , 870 ∗ sexo ); sendo atribuído o valor 0 ao sexo masculino e 1 ao sexo feminino (R ajustado: 0,41; R2 ajustado: 0,40). O VO2pico estimado pela equação foi 18,81 ± 3,2 mL.kg−1.min−1 e o determinado pelo teste cardiopulmonar de exercício foi 18,18 ± 5,9 mL.kg−1.min−1 (p > 0,05). O melhor ponto de corte para o VO2pico ≥ 20 mL.kg−1.min−1 foi de ≤ 5,47 segundos (área sob a curva: 0,80; intervalo de confiança de 95%: 0,74 a 0,86). Conclusões O TUG e o VO2pico apresentaram associação significativa. A equação preditiva do VO2pico foi desenvolvida e validada internamente com bom desempenho. O ponto de corte no TUG para prever um VO2pico ≥ 20 mL.kg−1.min−1 foi ≤ 5,47 segundos.

Abstract Background The use of the timed up and go (TUG) test to assess cardiorespiratory fitness in patients with heart disease has not been well defined in the literature. Objectives Test the association between TUG and peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak), construct an equation based on TUG to predict VO2peak, and determine a cutoff point to estimate VO2peak ≥ 20 mL/kg/min. Methods This cross-sectional study included 201 patients with coronary artery disease or heart failure, between 36 and 92 years of age, who underwent TUG and cardiopulmonary exercise test. Correlation, ROC curve, multiple linear regression, and Bland-Altman analyses were performed. The significance level was set at p < 0.05. Results The mean age of the total sample was 67 ± 13 years, and 70% of participants were male. The mean VO2peak was 17 ± 6 mL/kg/min, and the mean TUG time was 7 ± 2.5 seconds. The correlation between VO2peak and TUG was r = −0.54 (p < 0.001), and R2 was 0.30. The following equation was developed based on TUG: V O 2 peak = 33.553 + ( − 0.149 × age ) + ( − 0.738 × TUG ) + ( − 2.870 × sex ); a value of 0 was assigned to the male sex and 1 to the female sex (adjusted R: 0.41; adjusted R2: 0.40). The VO2peak estimated by the equation was 18.81 ± 3.2 mL/kg/min, and the VO2peak determined by cardiopulmonary exercise test was 18.18 ± 5.9 mL/kg/min (p > 0.05). The best cutoff point in the TUG for VO2peak ≥ 20 mL/kg/min was ≤ 5.47 seconds (area under the curve: 0.80; 95% confidence interval: 0.74 to 0.86). Conclusions TUG and VO2peak showed a significant association. A prediction equation for VO2peak was developed and validated internally with good performance. The cutoff point in the TUG to predict VO2peak ≥ 20 mL/kg/min was ≤ 5.47 seconds.

Reduced peripheral and respiratory muscle strength in pediatric patients after kidney transplantation / Redução da força muscular periférica e respiratória em pacientes pediátricos após transplante renal

Abstract Introduction: Reduced muscle strength and low-exercise capacity are well documented in adults, but there are few studies examining those impairments in children and adolescents after kidney transplantation. The objective of this study was to evaluate peripheral and respiratory muscle strength and the association with submaximal exercise capacity in children and adolescents after kidney transplant. Methods: Forty-seven patients between six and 18 years of age clinically stable after transplantation were included. Peripheral muscle strength (isokinetic and hand-grip dynamometry), respiratory muscle strength (maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressure), and submaximal exercise capacity (six-minute walk test - 6MWT) were assessed. Results: Patients had a mean age of 13.1 ± 2.7 years and an average of 34 months had elapsed since the transplantation. Flexors of the knee showed a significant reduction in muscle strength (77.3% of predicted) and knee extensors had normal values (105.4% of predicted). Hand-grip strength and maximal respiratory pressures (inspiratory and expiratory) also were significantly lower than expected (p < 0.001). Although distance walked in the 6MWT was significantly lower than predicted (p < 0.001), no significant correlation was found with peripheral and respiratory muscle strength. Conclusion: Children and adolescents after kidney transplantation have reduced peripheral muscle strength of knee flexors, hand-grip, and maximal respiratory pressures. No associations were found between peripheral and respiratory muscle strength and submaximal exercise capacity.

Resumo Introdução: Força muscular reduzida e baixa capacidade de exercício encontram-se bem documentadas em adultos mas há poucos estudos examinando essas alterações em crianças e adolescentes após transplante renal. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a força muscular periférica e respiratória e a associação com a capacidade submáxima de exercício em crianças e adolescentes após o transplante renal. Métodos: Foram incluídos 47 pacientes entre 6 e 18 anos de idade clinicamente estáveis após o transplante. Avaliou-se a força muscular periférica (dinamometria isocinética e de preensão manual), a força muscular respiratória (pressão inspiratória e expiratória máximas) e a capacidade submáxima de exercício (teste de caminhada de seis minutos - TC6M). Resultados: Os pacientes apresentaram média de idade de 13,1 ± 2,7 anos e uma média de 34 meses desde o transplante. Os flexores de joelho mostraram uma redução significativa na força muscular (77,3% do previsto) e os extensores de joelho apresentaram valores normais (105,4% do previsto). A força de preensão manual e as pressões respiratórias máximas (inspiratória e expiratória) foram significativamente inferiores ao esperado (p < 0,001). Embora a distância percorrida no TC6M tenha sido significativamente menor do que o previsto (p < 0,001), não encontramos nenhuma correlação significativa com a força muscular periférica e respiratória. Conclusão: Crianças e adolescentes submetidos ao transplante renal apresentam força muscular periférica reduzida de flexores de joelho e de preensão manual, bem como das pressões respiratórias máximas. Não foram encontradas associações entre força muscular periférica e respiratória e a capacidade submáxima de exercício.

Study of heart rate recovery in diabetic women to predict the risk of cardiovascular disease

Background: Diabetes mellitus is characterized by rise in the level of glucose concentration. Diabetes increases the risk of heart attack by four times in women and two times in men. An attenuated HRR immediately after exercise is considered an index to identify silent autonomic dysfunction. Individuals with low values for HRV and HRR present a higher risk of cardiovascular outcome. Methods: 50 diabetic participants with a mean age of 54.52 and SD±8.63 years. All the participants were assessed for heart rate and blood pressure before the assessment and after the 3-minute YMCA step test. Post test heart rate was assessed immediately after 1, 2 and 3 minutes. Heart rate recovery was calculated by subtracting heart rate immediately after 3 minutes of test to heart rate after 1 minute. Results: 50 diabetic women with the mean age of 38.96 and SD±9.36, the age ranged from 20 to 50. The resting heart rate mean was 98.08 and standard deviation was ±9.82. Mean and SD of heart rate immediately after 3 minutes was 142.66 and SD was ±8.05 and after 1 min was 130.86 and ±7.84 respectively. The heart rate recovery mean was 11.8 and SD was ±4.25. Conclusions: Study concluded heart rate recovery is delayed in diabetic women and it is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

La prueba cardiopulmonar de ejercicio contribuye a determinar con precisión el riesgo en pacientes con hipertensión pulmonar de bajo riesgo / Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing Contributes to Accurate Risk Assessment in Patients with Low-risk Pulmonary Hypertension

RESUMEN Introducción : Las guías europeas de hipertensión arterial pulmonar (HAP) estratifican el riesgo valiéndose de características clínicas y estudios complementarios entre los cuales está la prueba cardiopulmonar de ejercicio (PCPE), de la cual toma en cuenta 3 parámetros: el consumo de O2 (VO2) pico, su porcentaje respecto del predicho y la pendiente ventilación minuto/ producción de dióxido de carbono (VE/VCO2). Sin embargo, ninguno de los modelos que validaron esta forma de estratificar el riesgo incluyeron la PCPE entre sus variables. Objetivos : Determinar qué proporción de pacientes con HAP del grupo I considerados de bajo riesgo y que caminan >440 metros en la prueba de caminata de 6 minutos (PC6M) tienen en la PCPE parámetros considerados de riesgo moderado o alto. Material y métodos : Se incluyeron pacientes >18 años con diagnóstico de HAP del grupo I considerados de bajo riesgo con una PC6M >400 metros a los que se les realizó una PCPE en la que se registró el VO2 pico, su porcentaje respecto del VO2 predicho y la pendiente VE/VCO2. Se determinó qué proporción de pacientes presentaban estos parámetros en un estrato de riesgo mayor a bajo riesgo (VO2 pico <15 ml/kg/min, su porcentaje respecto del predicho <65% y la pendiente VE/VCO2 >36). Resultados : Se incluyeron 18 pacientes. A pesar de ser pacientes de bajo riesgo y con buena clase funcional todos presentaron un VO2 pico menor al 85% del predicho, lo cual determina un deterioro al menos leve de la capacidad funcional. Un único paciente (6%) presentó los tres parámetros evaluados en bajo riesgo, 8 pacientes (44%) tuvieron al menos un parámetro alterado, 7 pacientes (39%) presentaron 2 parámetros alterados y en 2 pacientes (11%) todos los parámetros estuvieron alterados. Los parámetros que más frecuentemente se vieron alterados fueron el porcentaje respecto del VO2 predicho y la pendiente VE/VCO2, en el 67% de los casos. Solo 4 pacientes presentaron un VO2 pico <15 ml/k/m. Ningún paciente presentó valores de VO2 pico o porcentaje respecto del predicho en la categoría de alto riesgo. Sin embargo, 6 pacientes (33%) presentaron una pendiente VE/VCO2 considerada de alto riesgo. Conclusión : El 94% de los pacientes considerados de bajo riesgo presentaron al menos una variable en la PCPE que no corresponde a un perfil de riesgo bajo. La pendiente VE/VCO2 y el porcentaje de VO2 pico respecto del predicho fueron las variables más frecuentemente alteradas. La pendiente VE/VCO2 fue la única que mostró valores considerados de alto riesgo. La PCPE podría tener un lugar en la estratificación de precisión de pacientes de bajo riesgo. El valor de este hallazgo deberá ser evaluado en estudios prospectivos, al tiempo que genera las bases para el planteo de hipótesis respecto de la estratificación de riesgo y la intensidad del tratamiento en pacientes que aparentan estar en bajo riesgo.

ABSTRACT Background : European guidelines for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) stratify the risk using clinical characteristics and complementary studies, including the cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET). This takes into account 3 parameters: peak O2 consumption (peak VO2), its percentage with respect to the predicted VO2, and the minute ventilation/carbon dioxide production (VE/VCO2) slope. However, none of the models that validated this way of stratifying risk included PCPE among their variables. Objectives : To determine what proportion of patients with group I PAH considered to be at low risk and who walk >440 meters in the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) have parameters considered to be of moderate or high risk in the PCPE. Methods : Patients >18 years of age, diagnosed with group I PAH at low risk of events, who walked >440 meters in the 6MWT and had NT-proBNP value <300 pg/dL were included. A CPET was performed in which the peak VO2, its percentage with respect to the predicted VO2, and the VE/VCO2 slope were recorded. It was determined what proportion of patients presented these parameters in a higher than low risk stratum (peak VO2 consumption ≤15 ml/min/Kg, its percentage with respect to the predicted VO2 ≤65% and the VE/VCO2 slope ≥36). Results : Eighteen patients were included. Despite being low-risk patients with a good functional class, all patients presented a peak VO2 less than 85% of predicted, which determines a deterioration of functional capacity. A single patient (6%) presented the three parameters evaluated at low risk, 8 patients (44%) had at least one altered parameter, 7 patients (39%) presented 2 altered parameters and in 2 patients (11%) all parameters were altered. The parameters that were most frequently altered were the percentage of predicted peak VO2 and the VE/VCO2 slope in 67% of the cases. Only 4 patients presented a peak VO2 <15 ml/kg/m. No patient presented peak VO2 values or percentage of predicted VO2 in the high-risk category. However, 6 patients (33%) presented a high-risk VE/VCO2 slope. Conclusion : Majority (92%) of the patients considered low risk and who walk more than 440 meters in 6 minutes presented at least one altered variable in the CPET. The VE/VCO2 slope and the percentage of predicted peak VO2 consumption were the most frequently altered variables. The VE/VCO2 slope was the only one that showed values considered high risk. CPET could have a place in the precision stratification of low-risk patients. The value of this finding should be evaluated in prospective studies.

Assessment of physical activity and physical fitness among undergraduate medical students

Background: In a nationwide survey conducted in the Indian Council of Medical Research- INdia DIABetes study (Phase-1) 2014 on physical activity and inactivity patterns, overall, 392 million individuals in India are physically inactive. Physically active medical students tend to recommend physical activity for patients or at-risk individuals in their future practice. Exercise is a subset of physical activity that is planned, structured, and repetitive which helps in achieving physical fitness. Aim and Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of physical activity (PA) and physical fitness among medical students and to correlate both. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study, in which physical activity level was assessed using Global Physical Activity Questionnaire. Physical fitness using Harvard step test, hand grip dynamometer, sit-up and push-up test, shoulder – flexibility test, body mass index, and body adiposity index was assessed among 150 medical students in a tertiary care hospital. Results: Physical activity level when analyzed, 16% of students performed low PA, 74% belonged to moderate PA Group, and 10% in high PA group. When mean metabolic equivalent of task min/week attained by study population in three domains of physical activity (work/travel/recreation) was analyzed, results showed no significant difference between males and females in different domains of physical activity. Conclusion: Although the students met the recommended physical activity as per the World Health Organization, physical fitness was not achieved up to the desired level. No correlation was noted between physical activity and physical fitness among medical students.

Effects of personalized rehabilitation exercise program customized under cardiopulmonary exercise test on cardiac function and prognosis of patients with chronic heart failure / 中国中西医结合急救杂志

Objective To evaluate the impact of customized rehabilitation exercise plans based on the results of cardiopulmonary exercise test(CPET)on cardiac function and prognosis in patients with chronic heart failure(CHF).Methods A total of 52 CHF patients admitted to Chengde Central Hospital from February 2020 to September 2021 were selected as the study subjects,and the patients were divided into observation group and control group according to the principle of randomized controlled study,with 26 cases in each group.The control group received rehabilitation treatment excluding exercise.The observation group was given routine rehabilitation treatment and high-intensity rehabilitation exercise plans based on CPET guidance.Above anaerobic threshold Δ50%power was exercise intensity,exercise time was 30 minutes/day,4 days/week,and intervention period was 12 weeks.Before and 12 weeks after intervention,CPET functional indicators,serum brain natriuretic peptide(BNP),left ventricular ejection fraction(LVEF),left ventricular end-diastolic diameter(LVEDD),and 6-minute walking distance(6MWD)were measured.The Minnesota CHF quality of life questionnaire(LiHFe)was used to evaluate patient's quality of life,readmission rate and cardiogenic mortality within 1 year of follow-up,and univariate and multivariate Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze factors affecting readmission of CHF patients.Results ① Cardiopulmonary function indicators:there was no statistically significant difference in the anaerobic threshold,peak oxygen uptake,and peak oxygen pulse of CPET functional indicators before and after intervention in the control group,after intervention,the CPET functional indicators in the observation group were significantly higher than those before intervention,and the above indexes in the observation group were significantly higher than those of the control group[anaerobic threshold(mL·min-1·kg-1):10.77±1.40 vs.9.59±1.11,anaerobic threshold(%ped):78.95±11.39 vs.70.09±6.48,peak oxygen uptake(mL·min-1·kg-1):15.63±1.36 vs.14.27±1.72,peak oxygen uptake(%ped):72.42±6.91 vs.63.41±7.31,peak oxygen pulse(mL/order):11.38±1.29 vs.9.05±1.64,peak oxygen pulse(%ped):90.23±10.16 vs.80.53±6.73,all P＜0.05].②Serum indicators,cardiac function indicators,exercise ability indicators,and quality of life evaluation:there was no statistically significant difference in serum indicators BNP,cardiac function indicators LVEDD,LVEF,exercise ability indicators 6MWD,and quality of life LiHFe scores between the two groups before intervention.After intervention,BNP and LiHFe scores were significantly reduced compared with before intervention,while LVEF and 6MWD were both increased compared with before intervention,and the changes of the above indexes in the observation group were more significant than those in the control group[BNP(ng/L):313.25±77.91 vs.445.89±110.67,LVEF:0.41±0.08 vs.0.37±0.06,6MWD(m):495.62±91.35 vs.416.04±65.29,LiHFe score:23.27±6.02 vs.29.50±4.61,all P＜0.05].③ Prognostic follow-up:the readmission rate within 1 year in the observation group was significantly lower than that in the control group(23.08%vs.53.85%),and there was no statistically significant difference in the mortality rate of cardiogenic diseases between the two groups.④Logistic univariate analysis showed that hyperlipidemia,New York Heart Association(NYHA)grading,BNP,and rehabilitation exercise were factors that affect the prognosis of CHF patients[odds ratio(OR)and 95%confidence interval(95%CI)were 0.098(0.019-0.494),0.069(0.016-0.294),1.018(1.007-1.029),and 3.889(1.178-12.841),respectively,all P＜0.05].Multivariate analysis showed that after adjusting for other factors,hyperlipidemia,NYHA grading,and BNP were risk factors affecting the prognosis of CHF patients(OR and 95%CI were 0.068(0.007-0.687),0.048(0.005-0.415),1.016(1.002-1.030),respectively,with P＜0.05],the use of rehabilitation exercise therapy was a protective factor affecting the prognosis of CHF patients[OR and 95%CI were 11.179(1.135-10.124),P＜0.05].Receiver operator characteristic curve(ROC curve)analysis showed that hyperlipidemia,NYHA grading,BNP,rehabilitation exercise therapy,and combined testing all had predictive value for the patient's prognosis(all P＜0.05),and the prediction value of joint detection was the highest,with the area under the ROC curve(AUC)=0.984 and P = 0.000.Conclusion Developing a high-intensity individualized cardiac exercise rehabilitation plan under the guidance of CPET can help improve the cardiopulmonary function,cardiac function,and quality of life of CHF patients,which is of great benefit for improving the long-term prognosis of CHF patients and has high safety.