In-office Maximal Voluntary Ventilation Testing Demonstrates Pulmonary Improvement Following Posterior Spinal Fusion for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis.

OBJECTIVE: Pulmonary function can be impaired in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV) has been shown to be more strongly correlated with major coronal curve, and a more easily obtained measurement of pulmonary function, than forced vital capacity (FVC). We evaluated changes in pulmonary function using these 2 measures in patients with AIS in relation to changes in major coronal curves over time. METHODS: Forty-seven patients with AIS with thoracic curves ≥10 degrees performed pulmonary function tests using the Carefusion MicroLoop Spirometer at enrollment and 1 year later. Major coronal curve worsening >5 degrees was considered curve progression. RESULTS: At enrollment, 47 patients had a mean major coronal curve of 38 degrees (range: 10 to 76 degrees). One year later, 17 patients had undergone posterior spinal fusion, 9 had curve progression >5 degrees, and 21 had no progression. MVV and major coronal curve were negatively correlated (r = -0.36, P = 0.01) at enrollment. After fusion, the major coronal curve improved by a mean of 41 degrees, and MVV improved by 23% (P < 0.01), but FVC did not improve significantly (6%, P = 0.29). In stable curves, MVV improved 12% (P = 0.01) and FVC improved 9% (P = 0.007). In patients without surgery whose curves progressed an average of 11 degrees, there was no significant change in MVV or FVC (P > 0.44). CONCLUSION: This is the first study using office-based spirometry in an orthopaedic clinic showing improved pulmonary function with posterior spinal fusion and growth in patients with AIS. It is notable that MVV improved after spinal fusion, but FVC did not, as MVV appears to be a more sensitive measurement for the assessment of pulmonary function in these patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II.

Neural respiratory drive during maximal voluntary ventilation in individuals with hypertension: A case-control study.

Neural respiratory drive (NRD) is measured using a non-invasive recording of respiratory electromyographic signal. The parasternal intercostal muscle can assess the imbalance between the load and capacity of respiratory muscles and presents a similar pattern to diaphragmatic activity. We aimed to analyze the neural respiratory drive in seventeen individuals with hypertension during quite breathing and maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV) (103.9 ± 5.89 vs. 122.6 ± 5 l/min) in comparison with seventeen healthy subjects (46.5 ± 2.5 vs. 46.4 ± 2.4 years), respectively. The study protocol was composed of quite breathing during five minutes, maximum inspiratory pressure followed by maximal ventilatory ventilation (MVV) was recorded once for 15 seconds. Anthropometric measurements were collected, weight, height, waist, hip, and calf circumferences, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), BMI, and conicity index (CI). Differences between groups were analyzed using the unpaired t-test or Mann-Whitney test to determine the difference between groups and moments. A significance level of 5% (p<0,05) was adopted for all statistical analyses. The group of individuals with hypertension presented higher values when compared to the healthy group for neural respiratory drive (EMGpara% 17.9±1.3 vs. 13.1±0.8, p = 0.0006) and neural respiratory drive index (NRDi (AU) 320±25 vs. 205.7±15,p = 0.0004) during quiet breathing and maximal ventilatory ventilation (EMGpara% 29.3±2.7 vs. 18.3±0.8, p = 0.000, NRDi (AU) 3140±259.4 vs. 1886±73.1,p<0.0001), respectively. In conclusion, individuals with hypertension presented higher NRD during quiet breathing and maximal ventilatory ventilation when compared to healthy individuals.

Relação entre variáveis antropométricas e de aptidão física em crianças e adolescentes estratificados por sexo / Relationship between anthropometric and physical fitness variables in children and adolescents stratified by sex / Relación entre variables antropométricas y de aptitud física en niños y adolescentes estratificados por sexo

A aptidão física (ApF) pode estar associada à saúde, ao desempenho esportivo e refere-se a capacidade de apresentar um determinado desempenho motor quando submetido a situações que envolvam esforços físicos. O objetivo deste estudo foi relacionar as variáveis antropométricas e de aptidão física em crianças e adolescentes da cidade de Pelotas/RS, estratificados por sexo. Foram avaliados 1720 escolares da rede municipal de Pelotas/RS, sendo 896 crianças (idade = 9,91 ± 1,21 anos) e 824 adolescentes (idade = 13,11 ± 1,04 anos), através de uma bateria de avaliações das medidas antropométricas (estatura [EST], massa corporal [MC], envergadura [ENV], índice de massa corporal [IMC]) e de testes físicos (flexibilidade [FLEX], potência de membros superiores [PMS], potência de membros inferiores [PMI], velocidade com troca de direção [VTD], velocidade linear [VL], resistência muscular localizada [RML] e capacidade cardiorrespiratória [CC]). O estudo de caráter de diagnóstico com cunho observacional utilizou o teste de correlação através do r de Pearson e classificou-as como muito fraca (0-0,19), fraca (0,2-0,39), moderada (0,4-0,69), forte (0,7-0,89) e muito forte (0,9-1). Destacou-se que no sexo feminino houve correlação moderada com IMC e PMS, as variáveis antropométricas EST, ENV e MC apresentaram pelo menos uma correlação com as variáveis de ApF, enquanto que estas variáveis demonstraram correlações moderadas entre PMS, VL e VTD. Já no sexo masculino foi observada correlação moderada entre IMC e CC, além de correlações fracas e moderadas entre EST, ENV e MC com pelo menos uma das variáveis de ApF, enquanto as variáveis de ApF demonstraram correlações moderadas entre PMI, VL e VTD. Portanto, ressalta-se a importância do diagnóstico destas variáveis para controle dos fatores de risco à saúde bem como para identificar potenciais relacionados ao desempenho esportivo.

Physical fitness (PhF) can be associated with health, sports performance and refers to the ability to present a certain motor performance when submitted to situations involving physical efforts. The aim of this study was to relate anthropometric and physical fitness variables in children and adolescents from the city of Pelotas/RS, stratified by sex. A total of 1720 schoolchildren from the municipal schools of Pelotas/RS were evaluated, 896 children (age = 9.91 ± 1.21 years) and 824 adolescents (age = 13.11 ± 1.04 years), through a battery of the anthropometric measurements (height [HT], body mass [BM], wingspan [WP], body mass index [BMI]) and physical tests (flexibility [FLEX], upper limb power [ULP], lower limb power [LLP], change of direction speed [CODS], linear speed [LS], localized muscular endurance [LME] and cardiorespiratory capacity [CC]). The study of a diagnostic character with an observational nature used the correlation test through Pearson's r and classified them as very small (0-0.19), small (0.2- 0.39), moderate (0.4- 0.69), large (0.7-0.89) and very large (0.9-1). It was highlighted that in females there was moderate correlation with BMI and ULP, the anthropometric variables HT, WP and BM showed at least one correlation with the PhF variables, while these variables showed moderate correlations between ULP, LS and CODS. In males, a moderate correlation was observed between BMI and CC, in addition to small and moderate correlations between HT, WP and BM with at least one of the PhF variables, while the PhF variables showed moderate correlations between LLP, LS and CODS. Therefore, it emphasizes the importance of diagnosing these variables to control health risk factors as well as to identify potentials related to sports performance.

La aptitud física (AF) puede estar asociada a la salud, al rendimiento deportivo y se refiere a la capacidad de presentar un determinado desempeño motor cuando sometido a situaciones que impliquen esfuerzos físicos. El objetivo de este estudio fue relacionar variables antropométricas y de aptitud física en niños y adolescentes de la ciudad de Pelotas/RS, estratificados por sexo. Fueron evaluados 1720 escolares de las escuelas municipales de Pelotas/RS, 896 niños (edad = 9,91 ± 1,21 años) y 824 adolescentes (edad = 13,11 ± 1. 04 años), a través de una batería de medidas antropométricas (altura [HT], masa corporal [BM], envergadura [WP], índice de masa corporal [IMC]) y pruebas físicas (flexibilidad [FLEX], potencia de miembros superiores [ULP], potencia de miembros inferiores [LLP], velocidad de cambio de dirección [CODS], velocidad lineal [LS], resistencia muscular localizada [LME] y capacidad cardiorrespiratoria [CC]). El estudio, de carácter diagnóstico y observacional, utilizó la prueba de correlación mediante la r de Pearson y las clasificó en muy pequeñas (0-0,19), pequeñas (0,2-0,39), moderadas (0,4- 0,69), grandes (0,7-0,89) y muy grandes (0,9-1). Se destacó que en las hembras hubo una correlación moderada con el IMC y el ULP, las variables antropométricas HT, WP y BM mostraron al menos una correlación con las variables PhF, mientras que estas variables mostraron correlaciones moderadas entre ULP, LS y CODS. En los varones, se observó una correlación moderada entre IMC y CC, además de correlaciones pequeñas y moderadas entre HT, WP y BM con al menos una de las variables PhF, mientras que las variables PhF mostraron correlaciones moderadas entre LLP, LS y CODS. Por lo tanto, se destaca la importancia del diagnóstico de estas variables para controlar los factores de riesgo para la salud, así como para identificar potenciales relacionados con el rendimiento deportivo.

Abnormal Pulmonary Function in Early Parkinson's Disease: A Preliminary Prospective Observational Study.

Early Parkinson's disease (PD) may cause respiratory dysfunction; however the findings vary among studies. The aim of the preliminary prospective observational study was to explore the deterioration of pulmonary function at various stages in patients with early PD. A total of 237 patients with PD were screened. Fifty-six patients were included (modified Hoehn and Yahr stage ≤ 2.5). In addition, 56 age-matched healthy controls were also included in the study. Significant differences between the PD and control groups were found in all the investigated lung-function parameters. The maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV) percent predicted was the only parameter that distinguished PD stages (101.1 ± 14.9% vs. 82.8 ± 19.2% vs. 71.4 ± 12.9%, Hoehn and Yahr stages 1.5 vs. 2 vs. 2.5, respectively; p < 0.005). MVV could be the most sensitive parameter for distinguishing the severity of early-stage PD.

Respiratory function tests in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: The role of maximal voluntary ventilation.

BACKGROUND: Pulmonary function tests are routinely used to measure progression in ALS. This study aimed to assess the change of various respiratory tests, in particular maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV), which evaluates respiratory endurance. METHODS: A group of 51 patients were assessed 3 times (T1, T2, T3, separated by 5.4 months), including slow (SVC) and forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), peak expiratory flow (PEF), maximal inspiratory (MIP) and expiratory (MEP) pressures, MVV, and sniff nasal inspiratory pressure (SNIP). In addition, body mass index (BMI), ALSFRS-R and phrenic nerve responses were obtained 4 times. Patients with dementia and marked bulbar involvement were excluded. RESULTS: Mean ALSFRS-R was high at entry (42.9) and its decline was moderately slow at 0.4/month. FVC and FEV1 declined significantly in the three time frames analysed. MVV reduced significantly only between T1-T3 and SVC between T2-T3, and MIP, MEP, PEF and SNIP did not change significantly. The amplitude and the latency of the motor response of the phrenic nerve changed significantly, and BMI declined significantly in most time periods, and ALSFRS-R changed significantly in the 4 time periods. We found a strong correlation between MVV, and FVC, SVC, FEV1, SNIP, phrenic nerve amplitude/area (p < 0.001), and markedly with PEF (rho = 0.821) and ALSFRS-R (rho = 0.713). CONCLUSIONS: Our study of early affected patients supports the use of a set of volitional and non-volitional respiratory tests to assess disease progression, rather than any single test. We found MVV a potentially useful marker of pulmonary function in ALS.

Factores sociodemográficos, clínicos y asistenciales asociados al impacto de la Covid-19 en la capacidad funcional respiratoria post alta hospitalaria / Sociodemographic, clinical and healthcare factors associated with the impact of Covid-19 on respiratory functional capacity after hospital discharge

La COVID-19 es una enfermedad infecciosa que causa importantes disfunciones respiratorias con repercusión a largo plazo, perdurando después del alta médico. En este estudio, se determinó la asociación entre los factores sociodemográficos, clínicos y asistenciales con el impacto de la COVID-19 en la capacidad funcional respiratoria post alta hospitalaria. Material y métodos: estudio observacional, analítico, transversal. La muestra conformada por 385 pacientes con diagnóstico de COVID-19. Se aplicó una ficha de recolección de datos, se estimó la capacidad funcional respiratoria. Se realizó un análisis bivariado mediante la prueba de chi cuadrado y razón de prevalencias considerando una significancia del 95% (p<0,05). Resultados: De los 385 pacientes, 228 (59,2%) se les percibió capacidad respiratoria normal y, disminuida en 157 (40,8%). Los adultos contemporáneos (55,84%) y masculinos (67,80%) fueron mayormente afectados. La comorbilidad (p= 0,292) y Co-Rads (p= 0,797) no mostraron estar directamente asociadas a la afectación respiratoria; contrario a RALE ≥ 3 en Radiografía de tórax (p=0,000). El tiempo en hospitalización, UCI y ventilación mecánica sugiere estar relacionado con la disminución respiratoria. Sin embargo, por RPc no hubo evidencia estadísticamente significativa. Pero, clínica severa 3.029 [1.611 ­ 5.696] p= 0.001 y RALE ≥3 4.079 [2.248 ­ 7.401] p= 0,000, arrojaron asociación. Conclusión: se identificaron como factores asociados el grado de severidad y RALE≥ 3 en radiografía de tórax. Se sugiere realizar estudios que confirme los hallazgos de esta investigación y se proponga un protocolo de rehabilitación integral dirigido a pacientes post covid-19 que les permita recuperar la normalidad en la capacidad funcional respiratoria(AU)

COVID-19 is an infectious disease that causes significant respiratory dysfunctions with long-term repercussions, lasting after medical discharge. In this study, association between socio-demographic, clinical and healthcare factors with the impact of COVID-19 on post-discharge respiratory functional capacity was determinated. Material and methods: observational study, analytical, cross-sectional study. The sample made up of 385 patients diagnosed with COVID-19. A data collection form was applied; the respiratory functional capacity was estimated. A bivariate analysis was performed using the fe chi square test and prevalence ratio, considering a significance of 95% (p<0.05). Results: of the 385 patients, 228 (59.2%) had normal respiratory capacity, and decreased in 157 (40.8%). Contemporary adults (55.84%) and males (67.80%) were mostly affected. Comorbidity (p= 0,292) and Co-Rads (p= 0,797) were not shown to be directly associated with respiratory involvement; contrary to RALE ≥ 3 in chest X-ray (p=0,000). The time in hospitalization, ICU and mechanical ventilation suggests to be related to the respiratory decrease. However, by PCR there was no statically significant evidence. But, clinical severe 3,029 [1,611 ­ 5,696] p= 0.001 and RALE ≥3 4,079 [2,248 ­ 7,401] p= 0,000, showed association. Conclusion: the degree of severity and RALE ≥ 3 in chest X-ray were identified as associated factors. It is suggest to carry out studies that confirm the findings of this research and propose a comprehensive rehabilitation protocol aimed at post-covid-19 patients that allows them to recover normal respiratory functional capacity(AU)

Enzymatic liver function measured by LiMAx is superior to current standard methods in predicting transplant-free survival after TIPS implantation.

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is one of the main treatment options in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis but is still associated with partly severe complications. For adequate patient selection, prognostic parameters are of crucial importance. The liver maximum capacity (LiMAx) breath test measures enzymatic liver function and could potentially represent an efficient prognostic marker. We therefore aimed to assess the role of LiMAx in predicting survival of TIPS patients in a prospective analysis. LiMAx was performed for patients who underwent TIPS implantation between October 2016 and February 2018. Associations with transplant-free survival after 24 weeks were assessed by logistic regression. A total number of 30 patients were included, of whom seven received liver transplantation (N = 2) or died (N = 5) during follow-up. LiMAx values after (P = 0.01, OR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.04-1.47) and before (P = 0.03, OR 1.21, 95% CI = 1.02-1.43) TIPS implantation and MELD score (P = 0.03, OR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.63-0.98) were significantly associated with transplant-free survival according to univariate logistic regression. In AUROC analysis, LiMAx at day one after TIPS (sensitivity 85.7%, specificity 78.3%, AUROC 0.85, cut-off ≤ 165 µg/kg/h), LiMAx value at the day before TIPS (sensitivity 100%, specificity 73.9%, AUROC 0.82, cut-off ≤ 205 µg/kg/h) and MELD score (sensitivity 71.4%, specificity 73.9%, AUROC 0.82, cut-off ≥ 15) had the highest prognostic accuracy. LiMAx values prior and after TIPS procedure seem to be good prognostic parameters regarding prediction of transplant-free survival of patients undergoing TIPS implantation.

Evaluation of the ventilatory effects on human subjects in prolonged hip-flexed/head-down restraint position.

BACKGROUND: The restraint chair is a tool used by law enforcement and correction personnel to control aggressive, agitated individuals. When initiating its use, subjects are often placed in a hip-flexed/head-down (HFHD) position to remove handcuffs. Usually, this period of time is less than two minutes but can become more prolonged in particularly agitated patients. Some have proposed this positioning limits ventilation and can result in asphyxia. The aim of this study is to evaluate if a prolonged HFHD restraint position causes significant ventilatory compromise. METHODS: Subjects exercised on a stationary bicycle until they reached 85% of their predicted maximal heart rate. They were then handcuffed with their hands behind their back and placed into a HFHD seated position for five minutes. The primary outcome measurement was maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV). This was measured at baseline, after initial placement into the HFHD position, and after five minutes of being in the position while still maintaining the HFHD position. Baseline measurements were compared with final measurements for statistically significant differences. RESULTS: We analyzed data for 15 subjects. Subjects had a mean MVV of 165.3 L/min at baseline, 157.8 L/min after initially being placed into the HFHD position, and a mean of 138.7 L/min after 5 min in the position. The mean baseline % predicted MVV was 115%; after 5 min in the HFHD position the mean was 96%. This 19% absolute difference was statistically significant (p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: In healthy seated male subjects with recent exertion, up to five minutes in a HFHD position results in a small decrease in MVV compared with baseline MVV levels. Even with this decrease, mean MVV levels were still 96% of predicted after five minutes. Though a measurable decrease was found, there was no clinically significant change that would support that this positioning would lead to asphyxia over a five-minute time period.

Maximal voluntary ventilation and forced vital capacity of pulmonary function are independent prognostic factors in colorectal cancer patients: A retrospective study of 2323 cases in a single-center of China.

ABSTRACT: Preoperative pulmonary function assessment is applied to select surgical candidates and predict the occurrence of postoperative complications. This present study enrolled 2323 colorectal cancer patients. Forced vital capacity (FVC) and maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV) were measured as predicted values. Associations between patient pulmonary function and both prognosis and postoperative complications was analyzed. The value of FVC and MVV optimal cutoff was 98.1 (P < .001) and 92.5 (P < .001), respectively. Low FVC and low MVV were associated with higher rates of postoperative fever (23.8% vs 13.9%, P < .001; 17.8% vs 13.3%, P = .049, respectively) and with higher rates of pneumonia (3.75% vs 1.73%, P = .002; 3.00% vs 1.71%, P = .009, respectively), pleural effusion (3.00% vs 1.57%, P = .033; 3.18% vs 1.42%, P = .006, respectively), and poor patient prognosis (5-year overall survival: 80.0% vs 90.3%, P < .001; 71.7% vs 91.9%, P < .001, respectively). In addition, low FVC was closely related to the higher rate of anastomosis leak (4.31% vs 2.29%, P = .013), low MVV was correlated with the higher rate of uroschesis (2.38% vs 0.65%, P < .001). In subgroup analyses, the predictive value of FVC and MVV in patients with different tumor stage was analyzed. Both low FVC and MVV were independent risk factors for poor prognosis in stage II and III, indicating that low FVC and MVV are predictive of poorer prognosis and higher risk of postoperative complications in colorectal cancer patients.

Preoperative maximal voluntary ventilation, hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocytes and platelets predict postoperative survival in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

BACKGROUND: Preoperative pulmonary function plays an important role in selecting surgical candidates and assessing postoperative complications. Reduced pulmonary function is associated with poor survival in several cancers, but the prognostic value of preoperative pulmonary function in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is unclear. Nutritional and systemic inflammation parameters are vital to cancer survival, and the combination of these parameters improves the prognostic value. The hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocytes and platelets (HALP) score is a novel prognostic indicator to reflect the nutritional and inflammation status, but the clinical effects of the HALP score combined with maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV), an important parameter of pulmonary function, have not been well studied in ESCC. AIM: To investigate the prognostic value of MVV and HALP score for assessing postoperative survival of ESCC patients. METHODS: Data from 834 ESCC patients who underwent radical esophagectomy with R0 resection were collected and retrospectively analyzed. Preoperative MVV and HALP data were retrieved from medical archives. The HALP score was calculated by the formula: Hemoglobin (g/L) × albumin (g/L) × lymphocytes (/L)/platelets (/L). The optimal cut-off values of MVV and HALP score were calculated by the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. The Kaplan-Meier method with log-rank test was used to draw the survival curves for the variables tested. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to analyze the independent prognostic factors for overall survival. RESULTS: MVV was significantly associated with gender (P < 0.001), age at diagnosis (P < 0.001), smoking history (P < 0.001), drinking history (P < 0.001), tumor length (P = 0.013), tumor location (P = 0.037) and treatment type (P = 0.001). The HALP score was notably associated with gender (P < 0.001), age at diagnosis (P = 0.035), tumor length (P < 0.001) and invasion depth (P = 0.001). Univariate Cox regression analysis showed that low MVV and low HALP score were associated with worse overall survival (all P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that low MVV and the HALP score were both independent risk factors for overall survival (all P < 0.001). The combination of MVV and HALP score improved the prediction performance for overall survival than tumor-node-metastasis. Also, low combination of MVV and HALP score was an independent risk factor for poor overall survival (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: MVV, HALP score and their combination are simple and promising clinical markers to predict overall survival of ESCC patients.

Efficacy of Shenling Baizhu San on stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Shenling Baizhu San (SBS) as a classic Chinese medicine prescription, has been extensively used in gastrointestinal diseases, such as ulcerative colitis and chronic diarrhea. In recent years, SBS has shown a beneficial effect on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. However, clinical trials had shown conflicting results of SBS on improving pulmonary function and other related indicators of patients with stable COPD. The efficacy of SBS on stable COPD patients has not been fully assessed. AIM OF THE STUDY: To determine whether the SBS used in the treatment of gastrointestinal disease was effective to treat COPD, we assessed the clinical evidence and efficacy of SBS supplemental treatment on stable COPD patients by a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Nine electronic databases were searched to include clinical trials (published until August 31, 2020) with SBS as a supplementation treatment on stable COPD. Mean difference (MD) was used to evaluate continuous variables, odds ratio (OR) was calculated to evaluate dichotomous. The Egger's test was applied for publication bias. RESULTS: A total of 770 COPD participants from 11 trials that met the inclusion criteria were included. The meta-analysis showed that modified SBS could improve the exercise endurance, life quality scores of stable COPD patients, and also showed the potential benefits to pulmonary function of COPD patients than original SBS. CONCLUSION: The methodological quality of included trials may limit the conclusions that indicate that modified SBS may have a promising treatment for improving FEV1/FVC and MVV, increasing exercise endurance and life quality scores on stable COPD patients.

A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial on the effect of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera dunal.) root extract in improving cardiorespiratory endurance and recovery in healthy athletic adults.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Ashwagandha is a reputed herb in traditional Ayurveda, used for various ailments and improving general well-being. Improved cardiorespiratory endurance can aid in attaining better physiological, metabolic, and functional abilities in humans. According to Ayurveda, Ashwagandha has such potential to improve human health. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Ashwagandha root extract in enhancing cardiorespiratory endurance in healthy athletic adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty healthy athletic adults were selected randomly and equally allocated to Ashwagandha and placebo groups. The Ashwagandha group received 300 mg of Ashwagandha root extract capsules, twice daily, for 8-weeks. Cardiorespiratory endurance was assessed by measuring the maximum aerobic capacity (VO2 max). Estimation of stress management was done through Total Quality Recovery Scores (TQR), Recovery-Stress Questionnaire for Athletes (RESTQ), and Daily Analysis of Life Demands for Athletes (DALDA) questionnaires along with the antioxidant level measurement. RESULTS: At the end of the study, a statistically significant improvement in VO2 max outcome was observed in the Ashwagandha group when compared to the placebo group (P = 0.0074). The subjects in the Ashwagandha group also displayed a statistically significant increase at the end of the study when compared to the baseline (P < 0.0001). Significantly improved TQR scores were observed in the Ashwagandha group members compared to their placebo counterparts (P < 0.0001). DALDA questionnaire analysis in the Ashwagandha group was found statistically significant (P < 0.0001) compared to the placebo group. RESTQ assessment also yielded better outcomes, especially for fatigue recovery (P < 0.0001), lack of energy (P < 0.0001), and fitness analysis (P < 0.0001). The enhanced antioxidant level was significant (P < 0.0001) in the Ashwagandha group. CONCLUSION: The present findings suggest that Ashwagandha root extract can successfully enhance cardiorespiratory endurance and improve the quality of life in healthy athletic adults. No adverse events were reported by any of the subjects in this study.

Correlation between Surgical Risk Scales with Respiratory Muscle Strength and Functional Independence in Patients Submitted to Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

Abstract Background The European Heart Surgery Risk Assessment System (EuroSCORE) and InsCor have been used to predict complications of cardiac surgery. However, their application to predict lung function and functionality is still uncertain. Objective To correlate surgical risk scales with functional independence and pulmonary function in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. Methods This was a prospective cohort study. In the preoperative period, the two surgical scales were applied, the maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), maximal expiratory pressure (MEP), and peak expiratory flow (PEF) were measured, and functionality was assessed using the functional independence measure (FIM). On the seventh postoperative day, the pulmonary function and functionality variables were reevaluated, compared with the preoperative values (delta) and correlated with the risk scales. Correlations of pulmonary function, functional independence and muscle strength variables with the surgical scales were made by Pearson correlation test. The significance level adopted was 5%. Results Thirty-one patients were studied; most were male (77%), with a mean age of 56±8 years. Mean EuroSCORE was 2.3±0.5 and mean InsCOR was 1.2±0.5. MIP, MEP, and PEF reduced 30% (p<0.001), 33% (p<0.001) and 10% (p=0.23), respectively. The EuroSCORE correlated with MIP (r-0.78; p = 0.02) and FIM (r-0.79; p <0.01), and the InsCor correlated with MIP (r-0.77), MEP (r-0.73) and MIF (r-0.89; p=0.02). Conclusion The EuroSCORE showed a strong negative correlation with MIP and FIM, while InsCor had a strong negative correlation with MIP, MEP and FIM. (Int J Cardiovasc Sci. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Maximum Voluntary Ventilation and Its Relationship With Clinical Outcomes in Subjects With COPD.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have reported that maximum voluntary ventilation (MVV) may be better associated with commonly used outcomes in COPD than FEV1 and may provide information on respiratory mechanics. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between MVV and clinical outcomes in COPD and to verify whether MVV predicts these outcomes better than FEV1. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study involving individuals with COPD. Lung function was assessed with spirometry; maximum inspiratory and expiratory pressures (PImax and PEmax, respectively) were assessed with manuvacuometry; and functional exercise capacity was assessed with the 6-min-walk test (6MWT). Dyspnea was assessed with the modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) scale; functional status was assessed with the modified Pulmonary Functional Status and Dyspnea Questionnaire (PFSDQ-m); and health status was assessed with the COPD Assessment Test (CAT). Correlations were verified with the Spearman coefficient, and stepwise multiple linear regression models investigated the predictors of clinical outcomes. RESULTS: Our study included 157 subjects: 82 males; median (interquartile range) age 66 (61-73) y; FEV1 46 (33-57) % predicted; 6MWT 86 (76-96) % predicted; PFSDQ-m total score 34 (14-57); and CAT total score 13 (7-19). Moderate correlations were found between MVV and PImax (r = 0.40), 6MWT (r = 0.50), mMRC (r = -0.56), and total scores on the PFSDQ-m (r = -0.40) and the CAT (r = -0.54). In the regression models, MVV was a predictor of almost all clinical outcomes, unlike FEV1. CONCLUSIONS: MVV correlates moderately with clinical outcomes commonly used in the evaluation of individuals with COPD, and MVV is a better predictor of respiratory muscle strength, functional exercise capacity, and patient-reported outcomes than FEV1.

Gender influence on the MVV / FEVi ratio in a population of healthy young adults.

INTRODUCTION: Maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV) and flow expiratory volume in the first second (FEVi) are important spirometric parameters. They are both gender-dependent. However, estimating the MVV, which is widely practiced in cardiopulmonary function testing, by multiplying FEVi by a constant value (equal to MVV/FEVi ratio) does not seem to take this into account. The purpose of this study was to compare the MVV/FEVi ratio by gender among healthy young adults. METHODS: This cross-sectional prospective study involved 67 medical sciences students, including 36 females of the same race, height, and age group. Their ventilatory function was assessed using a computerized spirometer, according to international recommendations. Pearson's test made it possible to correlate different spirometric parameters and linear regression was established between MVV and FEVi. The nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the MVV/FEVi ratio between females and males. Comparisons by gender were made also between our data and previous prediction equations. RESULTS: In both females and males, FEVi was the spirometric parameter with which MVV had the highest correlation (r = .91 in females, r = .63 in males). A comparison of the means of the MVV/FEVi ratio by gender showed a statistically significant (p < .005) decrease in females (35.68 vs. 38.87). The previous prediction equations showed statistically significant under and overestimation of MVV values when gender was not taken into account. CONCLUSION: For the same height, age, and race, the ratio MVV/FEVi was significantly lower for females. So, the use of a preset constant value in estimating the MVV without taking gender into account was methodologically questionable. This work, which could have clinical implications, would benefit from being confirmed in a larger population.

Correlação da ventilação voluntária máxima com a força e resistência dos músculos respiratórios em jovens / Correlation of maximum voluntary ventilation to the strength and resistance of young respiratory muscles

A ventilação voluntária máxima é um dos testes difundidos para avaliação da resistência da musculatura respiratória, mesmo sem ser validado para este fim. Na literatura ainda são encontradas controvérsias quanto a interpretação e aplicabilidade do uso da VVM na prática clínica. OBJETIVO: Verificar a correlação entre a ventilação voluntária máxima e a força e resistência dos músculos respiratórios em jovens hígidos. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Estudo observacional de corte transversal realizado na Clínica. Foram incluídos indivíduos > 18 anos, de ambos os sexos e hígidos. Os participantes tiveram sua avaliação da força muscular respiratória através do manovacuômetro, no qual se obteve a Pimáx e Pemáx. A resistência foi avaliada através do teste de carga constante pelo Power Breathe, utilizando 60% da Pimáx. A ventilação voluntária máxima foi realizada pelo espirômetro. Para a correlação das variáveis Pimáx, Pemáx e VVM foi aplicado o teste de correlação de Pearson. O estudo foi aprovado pelo comitê de ética, CAAE 10849519.9.0000.5544. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliados 27 participantes, em que 59,3% eram do sexo masculino e 55,6% ativos. A ventilação voluntária máxima com a Pimáx e Pemáx, apresentaram respectivamente p = 0,04 e 0,02 e r = 0,53 e 0,57. CONCLUSÃO: O teste de ventilação voluntária máxima possui uma correlação moderada com a força muscular respiratória, e não obtém correlação com o teste de carga constante.

Maximum voluntary ventilation is one of the widespread tests for assessing respiratory muscle strength, even without being validated for this purpose. Controversies are still found in the literature regarding the interpretation and applicability of the use of MVV in clinical practice. OBJECTIVE: To verify the correlation between maximum voluntary ventilation and respiratory muscle strength and endurance in healthy youngsters. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Observational cross-sectional study conducted at the Clinic. Individuals> 18 years of age, of both sexes and healthy were included. Participants had their respiratory muscle strength assessment using a manovacuometer, in which Pimax and Pmax were obtained. The resistance was evaluated through the constant load test by Power Breathe, using 60% of the Pimáx. Maximum voluntary ventilation was performed by a spirometer. Pearson's correlation test was applied to correlate the variables Pimax, Pmax and VVM. The study was approved by the ethics committee, CAAE 10849519.9.0000.5544. RESULTS: 27 participants were evaluated, of which 59.3% were male and 55.6% were active. The maximum voluntary ventilation with Pimax and Pmax, presented respectively p = 0.04 and 0.02 and r = 0.53 and 0.57. CONCLUSION: The maximum voluntary ventilation test has a moderate correlation with respiratory muscle strength and has no correlation with the constant load test.

Effects of high- and moderate-intensity exercise on central hemodynamic and oxygen uptake recovery kinetics in CHF-COPD overlap.

The oxygen uptake (V˙O2) kinetics during onset of and recovery from exercise have been shown to provide valuable parameters regarding functional capacity of both chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and chronic heart failure (CHF) patients. To investigate the influence of comorbidity of COPD in patients with CHF with reduced ejection fraction on recovery from submaximal exercise, 9 CHF-COPD male patients and 10 age-, gender-, and left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF)-matched CHF patients underwent constant-load exercise tests (CLET) at moderate and high loads. The V˙O2, heart rate (HR), and cardiac output (CO) recovery kinetics were determined for the monoexponential relationship between these variables and time. Within-group analysis showed that the recovery time constant of HR (P<0.05, d=1.19 for CHF and 0.85 for CHF-COPD) and CO (P<0.05, d=1.68 for CHF and 0.69 for CHF-COPD) and the mean response time (MRT) of CO (P<0.05, d=1.84 for CHF and 0.73 for CHF-COPD) were slower when moderate and high loads were compared. CHF-COPD patients showed smaller amplitude of CO recovery kinetics (P<0.05) for both moderate (d=2.15) and high (d=1.07) CLET. Although the recovery time constant and MRT means were greater in CHF-COPD, CHF and CHF-COPD groups were not differently affected by load (P>0.05 in group vs load analysis). The ventilatory efficiency was related to MRT of V˙O2 during high CLET (r=0.71). Our results suggested that the combination of CHF and COPD may further impair the recovery kinetics compared to CHF alone.

Fisioterapia aquática em indivíduos com distrofia muscular: uma revisão sistemática do tipo escopo / Fisioterapia acuática en individuos con distrofia muscular: una revisión sistemática de alcance / Aquatic physical therapy in individuals with muscular dystrophy: systematic scoping review

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi mapear o uso da fisioterapia aquática em indivíduos com distrofias musculares, de forma a caracterizar as intervenções no meio aquático e identificar componentes mensurados (variáveis estudadas e instrumentos utilizados nos estudos). A revisão sistemática do tipo de escopo incluiu estudos experimentais, descritivos e observacionais (em inglês, português e espanhol). As buscas foram realizadas nas plataformas Medline (PubMed), CINAHL, Embase, PEDro, Lilacs, ERIC, Scopus, Web of Science e Google Scholar. Os dados extraídos foram alocados em três categorias: (1) caracterização dos registros, (2) informações referentes a fisioterapia aquática e (3) componentes mensurados. Foram encontrados 556 registros e, destes, selecionados 20. As amostras dos estudos selecionados incluíram, na maioria, indivíduos com distrofia muscular de Duchenne, com idade entre 5 e 22 anos, que fizeram fisioterapia aquática com duração média de 45 minutos uma ou duas vezes por semana, por 21 semanas. Essas características corroboram estudos feitos em diferentes populações. A maioria dos estudos investigou alterações pulmonares e controle postural/desempenho funcional, poucos avaliaram os efeitos no sistema cardíaco. Recomenda-se usar a Egen Klassifikation, a North Star Ambulatory Assessment e fazer o teste de caminhada de seis minutos.

RESUMEN El presente estudio tuvo el objetivo de mapear la práctica de fisioterapia acuática por individuos con distrofias musculares, para caracterizar las intervenciones en el medio acuático e identificar los componentes medidos (variables estudiadas e instrumentos utilizados en los estudios). La revisión sistemática de alcance incluyó estudios experimentales, descriptivos y observacionales (en inglés, portugués y español). Se llevaron a cabo las búsquedas en Medline (PubMed), CINAHL, Embase, PEDro, Lilacs, ERIC, Scopus, Web of Science y Google Scholar. Los datos obtenidos se asignaron en tres categorías: (1) caracterización de registros; (2) informaciones sobre fisioterapia acuática; y (3) componentes medidos. Se encontraron 556 registros, de los cuales se seleccionaron 20. Las muestras de los estudios seleccionados incluyeron mayoritariamente a individuos con distrofia muscular de Duchenne, con edades entre 5 y 22 años, y que se habían sometido a sesiones de fisioterapia acuática con un promedio de duración de 45 minutos, una o dos veces por semana, durante 21 semanas. Estas características confirman estudios realizados con diferentes poblaciones. La mayoría de los estudios han investigado las alteraciones pulmonares y el control postural/rendimiento funcional, pero pocos han evaluado los efectos sobre el sistema cardíaco. Se recomienda emplear la Egen Klassifikation, la North Star Ambulatory Assessment y aplicar la prueba de caminata de seis minutos.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study is to map the use of aquatic physical therapy in individuals with muscular dystrophy, to characterize aquatic physical therapy intervention and identify measured components (variables and measurement instruments used) by the studies. A systematic scoping review included experimental, descriptive and observational studies (in English, Portuguese and Spanish languages). The searches were carried out on MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL, Embase, PEDro, Lilacs, ERIC, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar. The extracted data were characterized into three categories: (1) characterization of the records, (2) information referring to aquatic physical therapy, and (3) measured components. There were 556 studies records and 20 records were selected. The studies samples included mostly individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, aged between 5 and 22 years old. Aquatic physical therapy sessions lasted about 45 minutes, and one or two sessions per week were carried out for 21 weeks. That corroborates studies conducted in different populations. Most of the studies investigated pulmonary system and postural control/ functional ability, and a few studies evaluated cardiac system. Egen Klassifikation and North Star Ambulatory Assessment are recommended, and also to perform 6-minute walk test.

Cardiorespiratory fitness and the relationship between body fat and resting testosterone in men.

Objective: To examine the effect of cardiovascular fitness, i.e. VO2max, on the relationship between weight status and resting testosterone level (RTL) in males.Materials and methods: A subset of male participants from the 2003-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were analyzed by weight status, i.e. normal, overweight, obese, and all participants. Bivariate correlation coefficients were computed for RTL, percent body fat (BF%), and VO2max. Partial correlation coefficients were computed between RTL and BF% controlling for VO2max and between RTL and VO2max controlling for BF%.Results: Bivariate correlations between RTL and BF%, and RTL and VO2max were significant in all groups. The partial correlation coefficients between RTL and BF% controlling for VO2max were significant in the normal and all participants group. When RTL and VO2max were analyzed controlling for BF% only the all participants group remained significant.Conclusion: Cardiovascular fitness or weight status may independently influence RTL in males.