Optimising upper-limb exercise in patients with COPD: another step towards personalised pulmonary rehabilitation?

Upper-limb interval training may be a promising new modality in pulmonary rehabilitation https://bit.ly/41KSLAs.

Characteristics of Skeletal Muscle Strength in Subjects With Interstitial Lung Disease.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate muscle strength and the prevalence of muscle weakness in adults with interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) compared to healthy subjects. DESIGN: Cross-sectional (description of clinical features). SETTING: Public referral center (University Hospital). PARTICIPANTS: One hundred and twelve adults with ILD (n=48, 60±10yr, 68% female) and healthy counterparts (control group, n=64, 57±10yr, 58% female) (N=112). INTERVENTION: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Muscle strength and prevalence of muscle weakness in adults with ILD. Muscle strength was assessed via maximal isometric voluntary contraction of dominant upper and lower limb muscle groups. Data from the control group were used to generate reference equations. Muscle weakness was defined as a muscle strength value below the lower limit of normal calculated using data from the control group. Data were expressed as mean ± SD or median [interquartile range] according to the data distribution. RESULTS: Compared to the control group, adults with ILD had lower muscle strength for all muscle groups assessed (values presented as %predicted: pectoralis major 75[57-86]%; quadriceps 72[58-87]%; latissimus dorsi 76[57-103]%; deltoid 74[64-98]%; biceps brachii 78[64-91]%; triceps brachii 84[62-101]%; P≤.001 for all). Prevalence of muscle weakness in people with ILD was 40% for pectoralis major, 25% for latissimus dorsi, 16% for triceps brachii, 20% for biceps brachii, 27% for deltoid and 46% for quadriceps. CONCLUSIONS: Adults with ILD present a generalised reduction in peripheral Muscle strength, ranging between 20% to 46% of people depending on the muscle group assessed. and it was more prevalent in lower limb muscles.

The impact of sleep duration on physical activity in daily life in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

BACKGROUND: Despite the high prevalence of sleep disturbances in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), the relationship between physical activity in daily life (PADL) and sleep in this population remains unclear. OBJECTIVES: Investigate the impact of sleep on different domains of PADL in IPF and characterize their PADL profile. METHODS: Sixty-seven participants (thirty-three with IPF and thirty-four healthy subjects [control group]) were included. The subjects underwent assessments of pulmonary function, exercise capacity, respiratory and peripheral muscle strength, PADL, sleep, dyspnea, and health-related quality of life. PADL and sleep measures were assessed using an activity monitor (Actigraph®, wGT3x-BT). Associations between sleep and PADL were done using correlation and regression models. RESULTS: In the IPF, sleep duration at night associated significantly with step counts, sedentary, light, and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) (-0.82 ≤ R ≤ 0.43; p < .05 for all). Lung function and sleep partially explained PADL variables (0.19 ≤ R2 ≤ 0.65, p < .05 for all). Compared to controls, the IPF subjects presented lower step counts, less time spent in MVPA, standing position, and more time spent in lying position (p < .05, for all). CONCLUSIONS: Sleep duration is associated with PADL in IPF. The PADL profile of patients is worse than in control subjects.

The Brazilian-Portuguese version of the Upper Extremity Functional Index (UEFI): Translation, cross-cultural adaptation and measurement properties for Brazilian adults after a burn injury.

OBJECTIVES: To translate, cross-culturally adapt, validate, verify the reliability and estimate the minimal detectable change (MDC) of the UEFI to Brazilian Portuguese (UEFI-Br) for burns. METHODS: The study was carried out with 131 Brazilian burn cases at two time points, at discharge and at the first outpatient follow-up (15-21 days after discharge) in a Burn Treatment Center. The adaptation process of the UEFI was based on international recommendations. The Burn Specific Health Scale-Brief-Br (BSHS-B-Br) was also applied in order to analyze construct validity of the UEFI-Br and distribution-based methods were used to estimate its MDC. RESULTS: Intra- and inter-rater reliability were good with ICC of 0.986 (CI 95 %: 0.98-0.99) and 0.969 (CI 95 %: 0.955-0.979), respectively, at discharge and 0.997 (CI 95 %: 0.996-0.998) and 0.987 (CI 95 %: 0.981-0.991), respectively, at the first outpatient follow-up appointment. We found good internal consistency with Cronbach's α values of 0.987 and 0.996, respectively, at the two times. The SEM was 4.42 and 2.31 at the first and second time points, respectively. The UEFI-Br scores demonstrated strong correlation with the Burn Specific Health Scale-Brief-Br (BSHS-B-Br) function domain scores (r = 0.87-0.90). No significant correlation was found between UEFI-Br scores and participants' characteristics. The MDC of the UEFI-Br lies between 11 and 13 points. CONCLUSION: The Brazilian version of the UEFI-Br, a useful tool to assess upper limb function and disability, is a valid and reliable tool for use with Brazilian burn survivors. The MDC for the instrument was determined to be 11-13 points.

Clinical Characteristics of Individuals with Interstitial Lung Diseases and Indication of End-of-Life Care.

End-of-life care (EOLC) is palliative support provided in the last 6 months to 1 year of a patient's life. Although there are established criteria for its indication, few studies describe the clinical and functional characteristics of individuals with interstitial lung diseases (ILD) in EOLC. ILD individuals underwent various assessments, including lung function, exercise capacity (6 min walk test), physical activity in daily life (PADL), peripheral muscle strength, maximal respiratory pressures, body composition, quality of life (SGRQ-I), symptoms of anxiety and depression, dyspnea (MRC scale), and sleep quality. Fifty-eight individuals were included and divided into two groups according to the indication for commencing EOLC (ILD with an indication of EOLC (ILD-EOLC) or ILD without an indication of EOLC (ILD-nEOLC). There were differences between the groups, respectively, for steps/day (2328 [1134-3130] vs. 5188 [3863-6514] n/day, p = 0.001), time spent/day carrying out moderate-to-vigorous physical activities (1 [0.4-1] vs. 10 [3-19] min/day, p = 0.0003), time spent/day in standing (3.8 [3.2-4.5] vs. 4.8 [4.1-6.7] h/day, p = 0.005), and lying positions (5.7 [5.3-6.9] vs. 4.2 [3.6-5.1] h/day, p = 0.0004), the sit-to-stand test (20 ± 4 vs. 26 ± 7 reps, p = 0.01), 4 m gait speed (0.92 ± 0.21 vs. 1.05 ± 0.15 m/s, p = 0.02), quadriceps muscle strength (237 [211-303] vs. 319 [261-446] N, p = 0.005), SGRQ-I (71 ± 15 vs. 50 ± 20 pts, p = 0.0009), and MRC (4 [3-5] vs. 2 [2-3] pts, p = 0.001). ILD individuals with criteria for commencing EOLC exhibit reduced PADL, functional performance, peripheral muscle strength, quality of life, and increased dyspnea.

Two-Year Follow-Up of Chronic Ischemic Heart Disease Patients in a Specialized Center in Brazil. / Acompanhamento de Dois Anos de Pacientes com Cardiopatia Isquêmica Crônica em um Centro Especializado no Brasil.

The incidence of cardiovascular events in patients with chronic ischemic heart disease (CIHD) may vary significantly among countries. Although populous, Brazil is often underrepresented in international records. This study aimed to describe the quality of care and the two-year incidence of cardiovascular events and associated prognostic factors in CIHD patients in a tertiary public health care center in Brazil. Patients with CIHD who reported for clinical evaluation at Instituto do Coração (São Paulo, Brazil) were registered and followed for two years. The primary endpoint was a composite of myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, or death. A significance level of 0.05 was adopted. From January 2016 to December 2018, 625 participants were included in the study. Baseline characteristics show that 33.1% were women, median age 66.1 [59.6 - 71.9], 48.6% had diabetes, 83.1% had hypertension, 62.6% had previous MI, and 70.4% went through some revascularization procedure. At a median follow-up (FU) of 881 days, we noted 37 (7.05%) primary endpoints. After adjustments, age, previous stroke, and LDL-cholesterol were independently associated with the primary endpoint. Comparing baseline versus FU, participants experienced relief of angina based on the Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) scale according to the following percentages: 65.7% vs. 81.7% were asymptomatic and 4.2% vs. 2.9% CCS 3 or 4 (p < 0.001). They also experienced better quality of medication prescription: 65.8% vs. 73.6% (p < 0.001). However, there was no improvement in LDL-cholesterol or blood pressure control. This study shows that CIHD patients had a two-year incidence of the primary composite endpoint of 7.05%, and the reduction of LDL-cholesterol was the only modifiable risk factor associated with prognosis.

A incidência de eventos cardiovasculares em pacientes com doença cardíaca isquêmica crônica (DCIC) pode variar significativamente entre os países. Embora populoso, o Brasil é frequentemente sub-representado nos registros internacionais. Este estudo teve como objetivo descrever a qualidade do atendimento e a incidência de eventos cardiovasculares em dois anos, além de fatores prognósticos associados em pacientes com DCIC em um centro terciário de saúde pública no Brasil. Pacientes com DCIC que compareceram para avaliação clínica no Instituto do Coração (São Paulo, Brasil) foram cadastrados e acompanhados por dois anos. O desfecho primário foi um composto de infarto do miocárdio (IM), acidente vascular encefálico ou morte. Um nível de significância de 0,05 foi adotado. De janeiro de 2016 a dezembro de 2018, 625 participantes foram incluídos no estudo. As características basais mostram que 33,1% eram mulheres, a idade mediana era de 66,1 [59,6 ­ 71,9], 48,6% tinham diabetes, 83,1% tinham hipertensão, 62,6% tinham IM prévio e 70,4% passaram por algum procedimento de revascularização. Em um acompanhamento mediano de 881 dias, 37 (7,05%) desfechos primários foram observados. Após ajustes, idade, acidente vascular encefálico prévio e colesterol LDL foram independentemente associados ao desfecho primário. Comparando a linha de base com o acompanhamento, os participantes relataram alívio da angina com base na escala da Sociedade Cardiovascular Canadense (SCC) de acordo com as seguintes porcentagens: 65,7% vs. 81,7% eram assintomáticos e 4,2% vs. 2,9% eram SCC 3 ou 4 (p < 0,001). Eles também relataram melhor qualidade na prescrição de medicamentos: 65,8% vs. 73,6% (p < 0,001). No entanto, não houve melhora no colesterol LDL ou no controle da pressão arterial. O presente estudo mostra que pacientes com DCIC apresentaram uma incidência de 7,05% do desfecho primário composto em um período de dois anos, sendo a diminuição do colesterol LDL o único fator de risco modificável associado ao prognóstico.

Comparison of Physical Activity Patterns among Three Major Chronic Respiratory Diseases.

Although the level of physical activity in daily life (PADL) plays a vital role concerning the health of subjects with chronic lung diseases, it remains uncertain how PADL patterns compare among different conditions. This study's objective was to compare the PADL levels of subjects with COPD, asthma and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF); and to investigate PADL behaviour in different diseases' severity. Stable subjects who had not undergone pulmonary rehabilitation in the previous year were included. Subjects were divided into two subgroups according to disease severity: mild/moderate and severe/very severe. The primary outcome was time spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activities (MVPA) (Actigraph GT3x) measured during one week over 12 h/day; other assessments included pulmonary function, peripheral muscle strength and exercise capacity. Comparisons among subgroups were corrected for age, BMI and sex. The analysis involved 119 subjects (47 asthma, 48 COPD and 24 IPF). Subjects with asthma had higher PADL levels than those with COPD and IPF (MVPA 18(14-22) vs. 8(4-12) vs. 7(1-12) min/day, respectively; p ancova = 0.002). Subjects with severe/very severe IPF had the lowest PADL level among all subgroups. Adult subjects with asthma have higher PADL levels than those with COPD and IPF, whereas patients with severe and very severe IPF are the most physically inactive subjects.

Rivaroxaban versus warfarin in postoperative atrial fibrillation: Cost-effectiveness analysis in a single-center, randomized, and prospective trial.

Objectives: Postoperative atrial fibrillation is the most common clinical complication after coronary artery bypass graft surgery. It is associated with a high risk of both stroke and death and increases the length of hospital stay and costs. This study aimed to evaluate anticoagulants in postoperative atrial fibrillation. Methods: A single-center, randomized, prospective, and open-label study. The trial was conducted in Heart Institute at University of São Paulo, Brazil. Patients who developed postoperative atrial fibrillation were randomized to anticoagulation with rivaroxaban or warfarin plus enoxaparin bridging. The primary objective was the cost-effectiveness evaluated by quality-adjusted life years, using the SF-6D questionnaire. The secondary end point was the combination of death, stroke, myocardial infarction, thromboembolic events, infections, bleeding, readmissions, and surgical reinterventions. The safety end point was any bleeding using the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis score. Follow-up period was 30 days after hospital discharge. Results: We analyzed 324 patients and 53 patients were randomized. The median cost-effectiveness was $1423.20 in the warfarin group versus $586.80 in the rivaroxaban group (P = .002). The median cost was lower in the rivaroxaban group, $450.20 versus $947.30 (P < .001). The secondary outcome was similar in both groups, 44.4% in warfarin group versus 38.5% in the rivaroxaban group (P = .65). Bleeding occured in 25.9% in the warfarin group versus 11.5% in the rivaroxaban group (P = .18). Conclusions: Rivaroxaban was more cost-effective when compared with warfarin associated with enoxaparin bridging in postoperative atrial fibrillation after isolated coronary artery bypass grafting.

Cultural adaptation and validation of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the PROactive Physical Activity in COPD-clinical visit instrument for individuals with COPD.

OBJECTIVE: To adapt the PROactive Physical Activity in COPD-clinical visit (C-PPAC) instrument to the cultural setting in Brazil and to determine the criterion validity, test-retest reliability agreement, and internal consistency of this version. METHODS: A protocol for cultural adaptation and validation was provided by the authors of the original instrument and, together with another guideline, was applied in a Portuguese-language version developed by a partner research group from Portugal. The adapted Brazilian Portuguese version was then cross-sectionally administered twice within a seven-day interval to 30 individuals with COPD (57% were men; mean age was 69 ± 6 years; and mean FEV1 was 53 ± 18% of predicted) to evaluate internal consistency and test-retest reliability. Participants also completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), the modified Medical Research Council scale, the COPD Assessment Test, and Saint George's Respiratory Questionnaire to evaluate criterion validity. RESULTS: The C-PPAC instrument showed good internal consistency and excellent test-retest reliability: "amount" domain = 0.87 (95% CI, 0.73-0.94) and "difficulty" domain = 0.90 (95% CI, 0.76-0.96). Bland & Altman plots, together with high Lin's concordance correlation coefficients, reinforced that agreement. Criterion validity showed moderate-to-strong correlations of the C-PPAC with all of the other instruments evaluated, especially with the IPAQ (rho = -0.63). CONCLUSIONS: The Brazilian Portuguese version of the C-PPAC is a reliable and valid instrument for evaluating the experience of Brazilian individuals with COPD with their physical activity in daily life.

Assessment of sedentary behaviour in individuals with COPD: how many days are necessary?

Objective: The objective of the present study was to define the minimum number of monitoring days required for the adequate cross-sectional assessment of sedentary behaviour in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the sedentary behaviour of individuals with COPD was assessed using two physical activity monitors during awake time for seven consecutive days. Time spent per day in activities requiring ≤1.5 metabolic equivalents (METs) and in sitting, lying and sitting+lying positions was calculated taking into account the average of 7 days (as a reference in all analyses) and of all 119 possible combinations of 2---6 days. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and linear regression analyses were performed for all combinations. Results: 91 individuals were analysed (47 female, 66±9 years, forced expiratory volume in 1 s 50±15% predicted). For the variables time spent per day in activities ≤1.5METs and sitting, the average of any combination of at least four assessment days was sufficient to adequately reflect the average of 7 days (adjusted R2≥0.929, ICC≥0.962, p<0.0001 for all). For time spent per day lying and sitting+lying, only two assessment days were enough (adjusted R2≥0.937, ICC≥0.968, p<0.0001 for all). Results were maintained independently of patient sex, disease severity, day of the week, daylight time or daytime naps. Conclusions: The average of 4 days of objective monitoring was sufficient to adequately reflect the results of a 1-week assessment of the main outcomes related to sedentary behaviour in individuals with moderate to very severe COPD, regardless of sex, disease severity, day of the week, daylight time and occurrence of daytime naps.

Coronavirus disease-2019 and heart: assessment of troponin and cardiovascular comorbidities as prognostic markers in patients hospitalized with coronavirus disease-2019 in a tertiary center in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: Our study aimed to evaluate the correlation of cardiac troponin T levels with comorbidities and in-hospital outcomes in patients with coronavirus disease-2019 in Brazil. METHODS: Data from a cohort of 3,596 patients who were admitted with suspected coronavirus disease-2019 in a Brazilian tertiary center, between March and August 2020, were reviewed. A total of 2,441 (68%) patients had cardiac troponin T determined in the first 72 h of admission and were stratified into two groups: elevated cardiac troponin T (cardiac troponin T >0.014 ng/mL) and normal cardiac troponin T. Associations between troponin, comorbidities, biomarkers, and outcomes were assessed. Regression models were built to assess the association of several variables with in-hospital mortality. RESULTS: A total of 2,441 patients were embraced, of which 924 (38%) had normal cardiac troponin T and 1,517 (62%) had elevated cardiac troponin T. Patients with elevated cardiac troponin T were older and had more comorbidities, such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, arrhythmia, renal dysfunction, liver disease, stroke, cancer, and dementia. Patients with abnormal cardiac troponin T also had more altered laboratory parameters on admission (i.e., leukocytes, C-reactive protein, D-dimer, and B-type natriuretic peptide), as well as more need for intensive care unit, vasoactive drugs, mechanical ventilation, dialysis, and blood transfusion. All-cause mortality was markedly higher among patients with increased cardiac troponin T (42 vs. 16%, P<0.001). Multiple regression analysis demonstrated that in-hospital mortality was not independently associated with troponin elevation. CONCLUSION: This study showed that cardiac troponin T elevation at admission was common and associated with several comorbidities, biomarkers, and clinical outcomes in patients hospitalized with coronavirus disease-2019, but it was not an independent marker of in-hospital mortality.

P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy versus dual antiplatelet therapy in patients with acute coronary syndromes undergoing coronary stenting: rationale and design of the NEOMINDSET Trial

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is currently the standard of care after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Recent studies suggest that reducing DAPT to 1-3 months followed by an aspirin-free single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) strategy with a potent P2Y12 inhibitor is safe and associated with less bleeding. However, to date, no randomised trial has tested the impact of initiating SAPT immediately after PCI, particularly in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). NEOMINDSET is a multicentre, randomised, open-label trial with a blinded outcome assessment designed to compare SAPT versus DAPT in 3,400 ACS patients undergoing PCI with the latest-generation drug-eluting stents (DES). After successful PCI and up to 4 days following hospital admission, patients are randomised to receive SAPT with a potent P2Y12 inhibitor (ticagrelor or prasugrel) or DAPT (aspirin plus a potent P2Y12 inhibitor) for 12 months. Aspirin is discontinued immediately after randomisation in the SAPT group. The choice between ticagrelor and prasugrel is at the investigator's discretion. The primary hypothesis is that SAPT will be non-inferior to DAPT with respect to the composite endpoint of all-cause mortality, stroke, myocardial infarction or urgent target vessel revascularisation, but superior to DAPT on rates of bleeding defined by Bleeding Academic Research Consortium 2, 3 or 5 criteria. NEOMINDSET is the first study that is specifically designed to test SAPT versus DAPT immediately following PCI with DES in ACS patients. This trial will provide important insights on the efficacy and safety of withdrawing aspirin in the early phase of ACS.

P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy versus dual antiplatelet therapy in patients with acute coronary syndromes undergoing coronary stenting: rationale and design of the NEOMINDSET Trial.

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is currently the standard of care after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Recent studies suggest that reducing DAPT to 1-3 months followed by an aspirin-free single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) strategy with a potent P2Y12 inhibitor is safe and associated with less bleeding. However, to date, no randomised trial has tested the impact of initiating SAPT immediately after PCI, particularly in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). NEOMINDSET is a multicentre, randomised, open-label trial with a blinded outcome assessment designed to compare SAPT versus DAPT in 3,400 ACS patients undergoing PCI with the latest-generation drug-eluting stents (DES). After successful PCI and up to 4 days following hospital admission, patients are randomised to receive SAPT with a potent P2Y12 inhibitor (ticagrelor or prasugrel) or DAPT (aspirin plus a potent P2Y12 inhibitor) for 12 months. Aspirin is discontinued immediately after randomisation in the SAPT group. The choice between ticagrelor and prasugrel is at the investigator's discretion. The primary hypothesis is that SAPT will be non-inferior to DAPT with respect to the composite endpoint of all-cause mortality, stroke, myocardial infarction or urgent target vessel revascularisation, but superior to DAPT on rates of bleeding defined by Bleeding Academic Research Consortium 2, 3 or 5 criteria. NEOMINDSET is the first study that is specifically designed to test SAPT versus DAPT immediately following PCI with DES in ACS patients. This trial will provide important insights on the efficacy and safety of withdrawing aspirin in the early phase of ACS. (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04360720).

Do Functional Tests Estimate Physical Activity in COPD?

The association between physical activity in daily life (PADL) and simple functional tests is not yet clearly understood in subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the association of two functional tests (Sit-to-Stand test [STS] and the 4-Metre Gait Speed test [4MGS]) with PADL, as well as to identify whether these tests can discriminate those subjects who are physically inactive. In this cross-sectional study, 28 subjects with COPD performed the five repetitions Sit-to-Stand (STS5r), the 4MGS and used the DynaPort activity monitor for 7 days in order to assess PADL. Walking time, movement intensity while walking (MI) and Physical Activity Level index (PAL) were considered as PADL outcomes. STS5r and 4MGS, respectively, were significantly associated with walking time (R2 = 0.16; p = 0.024 and R2 = 0.25; p = 0.006) and PAL index (R2 = 0.17; p = 0.002 and R2 = 0.30; p = 0.003), whereas movement intensity was associated only with the 4MGS (R2 = 0.23; p = 0.009). Additionally, both tests were able to discriminate physically inactive subjects (cutoffs: STS5r = 11.48s [AUC = 0.73]; 4MGS = 1.09m/s [AUC = 0.88]). In conclusion, STS5r and 4MGS can predict up to 30% of PADL in subjects with COPD. Both tests are related to PADL duration (e.g. time spent walking), while only the 4MGS reflects movement intensity. Both tests presented discriminative capacity to identify subjects with worse PADL pattern.

Frequency and Functional Consequences of Low Appendicular Lean Mass and Sarcopenic Obesity in Patients with Asthma Referred for Pulmonary Rehabilitation.

INTRODUCTION: One of the most prominent extrapulmonary manifestations in patients with chronic respiratory disease is changes in body weight and composition. However, the frequency and functional consequences of low appendicular lean mass (ALM) or sarcopenic obesity (SO) in patients with asthma are largely unknown. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to assess the frequency and functional consequences of low appendicular lean mass index (ALMI) and SO in patients with asthma. METHODS: A retrospectively analyzed cross-sectional study was conducted in 687 patients with asthma (60% female, 58 ± 13 years, FEV1 76 ± 25% pred) referred for comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation (PR). Body composition, pulmonary function, exercise capacity, quadriceps muscle function, and quality of life were assessed. Patients were classified as presenting low ALMI according to the 10th percentiles of age-sex-body mass index (BMI)-specific reference values and as having SO according to the diagnostic procedure proposed by the 2022 ESPEN/EASO consensus. In addition, clinical outcomes between patients with normal and low ALMI or with and without SO were compared. RESULTS: The frequency of patients classified as low ALMI was 19%, whereas 45% of the patients were obese. Among the obese patients, 29% had SO. In patients with normal weight, those with low ALMI were younger and had worse pulmonary function, exercise capacity and quadriceps muscle function than those with normal ALMI (all p < 0.05). Overweight patients with low ALMI presented poorer pulmonary function and quadriceps muscle function (both strength and total work capacity). In obese class I patients, those with low ALMI showed lower quadriceps strength and maximal oxygen uptake acquired during cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Both male and female patients with SO showed lower quadriceps muscle function and reduced maximal exercise capacity compared to non-SO asthma patients. CONCLUSION: Approximately one in five asthma patients presented low ALM when age-sex-BMI-specific ALMI cutoffs were applied. Obesity is common among patients with asthma referred for PR. Among the obese patients, a significant proportion presented SO. Low ALM and SO were associated with worse functional outcomes.

Validity, Reproducibility, and Minimal Detectable Difference of the Functional Upper Extremity Function Test - Simplified Version - for Adults With Moderate to Severe Asthma and COPD.

BACKGROUND: Upper-limbs (ULs) functional tests which are valid and reliable for individuals with chronic respiratory disease (CRD) are scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate the intra-rater reproducibility, validity, minimal detectable difference (MDD), and learning effect of the Upper Extremity Function Test - simplified version (UEFT_S) functional test and to characterize its performance for adults with moderate-severe asthma and COPD. METHODS: The UEFT_S was performed twice, and the number of elbow flexions in 20 s was the outcome. In addition, spirometry, 6-min walk test (6MWT), handgrip dynamometry (HGD), and usual and maximum timed-up-and-go tests (TUG_usual and TUG_max) were also performed. RESULTS: Eighty-four individuals with moderate-severe CRD and 84 control individuals matched by anthropometric data were analyzed. Individuals with CRD presented better performance in the UEFT_S than controls (P = .023). UEFT_S correlated significantly with HGD, TUG_usual, TUG_max, and 6MWT (P < .047 for all). The test-retest intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.91 [0.86-0.94], and the MDD was 0.4%. CONCLUSIONS: The UEFT_S is a valid and reproducible tool to assess the functionality of the ULs in people with moderate-severe asthma and COPD. When applied in the modified form, the test can be considered simple, fast, and inexpensive, with an easy outcome to interpret.

Validity of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (short form) in adults with asthma.

BACKGROUND: The short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) is widely used to assess PA and has already been used in adults with asthma; however, its validity has not been yet studied in this population. Therefore, the aim of this study was to verify the convergent and discriminative validity of the IPAQ short form in adults with asthma. METHODS: Fifty-three adults with asthma (36 females; 48±15 years; 29±6 kg/m²) wore the triaxial activity monitor Actigraph for eight days to objectively measure steps/day, time in light physical activity (PA), moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), and sedentary behaviour. Participants filled out the IPAQ matching with the same week they wore the Actigraph, with measures of: time of MVPA and total PA/week; categorization of low, moderate or high PA level; time in seated position. RESULTS: IPAQ self-reported total time of PA/week was weakly correlated with steps/day. The IPAQ categorization correlated moderately with time in light, MVPA and steps/day. Self-reported time in seated position on weekdays was moderately correlated with objective percentage/day of time in sedentary behaviour in the same period. IPAQ categorization in PA levels was able to differentiate between low to moderate and low to high PA levels. CONCLUSIONS: These results cannot confidently infer the convergent validity of the IPAQ to quantify number of steps/day and time spent in PA of adults with asthma. However, this instrument may be useful to categorize patients into three levels of PA.

Validity and reliability of the Glittre-ADL test in adults with asthma.

INTRODUCTION: Adults with asthma may have limitations in their activities of daily living (ADL) and among the most used tests to assess ADL, performance-based instruments such as the Glittre-Activities of Daily Living (Glittre-ADL) test are available. However, metric properties of this instrument have not yet been investigated in this population. OBJECTIVE: To verify the construct validity and reliability of the Glittre-ADL test in adults with asthma. METHODS: Fifty-eight adults with asthma had their ADL objectively assessed by Glittre-ADL test, which was performed twice by the same rater. Lung function (spirometry), functional exercise capacity (6-minute walk test, 6MWT), and quality of life (St George's Respiratory Questionnaire, SGRQ) were also assessed. RESULTS: Participants were 31% men; 43 ± 14 years; FEV1 74 ± 18% predicted. Performance in the Glittre-ADL test correlated with the 6MWT (r = -0.61; P < .0001) and had excellent intraclass correlation coefficient ICC3,1 = 0.95. Standard error of measurement was 23%, and the minimal detectable change was 29 seconds. Furthermore, the learning effect was 11 seconds (5.03%). CONCLUSION: The Glittre-ADL test is valid and reliable for assessing ADL in adults with asthma. However, considerable learning effect was observed and therefore the best of two measures can avoid underestimation.

Acompanhamento de Dois Anos de Pacientes com Cardiopatia Isquêmica Crônica em um Centro Especializado no Brasil / Two-Year Follow-Up of Chronic Ischemic Heart Disease Patients in a Specialized Center in Brazil

Resumo Fundamento A incidência de eventos cardiovasculares em pacientes com doença cardíaca isquêmica crônica (DCIC) pode variar significativamente entre os países. Embora populoso, o Brasil é frequentemente sub-representado nos registros internacionais. Objetivos Este estudo teve como objetivo descrever a qualidade do atendimento e a incidência de eventos cardiovasculares em dois anos, além de fatores prognósticos associados em pacientes com DCIC em um centro terciário de saúde pública no Brasil. Métodos Pacientes com DCIC que compareceram para avaliação clínica no Instituto do Coração (São Paulo, Brasil) foram cadastrados e acompanhados por dois anos. O desfecho primário foi um composto de infarto do miocárdio (IM), acidente vascular encefálico ou morte. Um nível de significância de 0,05 foi adotado. Resultados De janeiro de 2016 a dezembro de 2018, 625 participantes foram incluídos no estudo. As características basais mostram que 33,1% eram mulheres, a idade mediana era de 66,1 [59,6 - 71,9], 48,6% tinham diabetes, 83,1% tinham hipertensão, 62,6% tinham IM prévio e 70,4% passaram por algum procedimento de revascularização. Em um acompanhamento mediano de 881 dias, 37 (7,05%) desfechos primários foram observados. Após ajustes, idade, acidente vascular encefálico prévio e colesterol LDL foram independentemente associados ao desfecho primário. Comparando a linha de base com o acompanhamento, os participantes relataram alívio da angina com base na escala da Sociedade Cardiovascular Canadense (SCC) de acordo com as seguintes porcentagens: 65,7% vs. 81,7% eram assintomáticos e 4,2% vs. 2,9% eram SCC 3 ou 4 (p < 0,001). Eles também relataram melhor qualidade na prescrição de medicamentos: 65,8% vs. 73,6% (p < 0,001). No entanto, não houve melhora no colesterol LDL ou no controle da pressão arterial. Conclusão O presente estudo mostra que pacientes com DCIC apresentaram uma incidência de 7,05% do desfecho primário composto em um período de dois anos, sendo a diminuição do colesterol LDL o único fator de risco modificável associado ao prognóstico.

Abstract Background The incidence of cardiovascular events in patients with chronic ischemic heart disease (CIHD) may vary significantly among countries. Although populous, Brazil is often underrepresented in international records. Objectives This study aimed to describe the quality of care and the two-year incidence of cardiovascular events and associated prognostic factors in CIHD patients in a tertiary public health care center in Brazil. Methods Patients with CIHD who reported for clinical evaluation at Instituto do Coração (São Paulo, Brazil) were registered and followed for two years. The primary endpoint was a composite of myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, or death. A significance level of 0.05 was adopted. Results From January 2016 to December 2018, 625 participants were included in the study. Baseline characteristics show that 33.1% were women, median age 66.1 [59.6 - 71.9], 48.6% had diabetes, 83.1% had hypertension, 62.6% had previous MI, and 70.4% went through some revascularization procedure. At a median follow-up (FU) of 881 days, we noted 37 (7.05%) primary endpoints. After adjustments, age, previous stroke, and LDL-cholesterol were independently associated with the primary endpoint. Comparing baseline versus FU, participants experienced relief of angina based on the Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) scale according to the following percentages: 65.7% vs. 81.7% were asymptomatic and 4.2% vs. 2.9% CCS 3 or 4 (p < 0.001). They also experienced better quality of medication prescription: 65.8% vs. 73.6% (p < 0.001). However, there was no improvement in LDL-cholesterol or blood pressure control. Conclusion This study shows that CIHD patients had a two-year incidence of the primary composite endpoint of 7.05%, and the reduction of LDL-cholesterol was the only modifiable risk factor associated with prognosis.

Cultural adaptation and validation of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the PROactive Physical Activity in COPD-clinical visit instrument for individuals with COPD / Adaptação cultural e validação da versão brasileira do instrumento PROactive Physical Activity in COPD-clinical visit para indivíduos com DPOC

ABSTRACT Objective: To adapt the PROactive Physical Activity in COPD-clinical visit (C-PPAC) instrument to the cultural setting in Brazil and to determine the criterion validity, test-retest reliability agreement, and internal consistency of this version. Methods: A protocol for cultural adaptation and validation was provided by the authors of the original instrument and, together with another guideline, was applied in a Portuguese-language version developed by a partner research group from Portugal. The adapted Brazilian Portuguese version was then cross-sectionally administered twice within a seven-day interval to 30 individuals with COPD (57% were men; mean age was 69 ± 6 years; and mean FEV1 was 53 ± 18% of predicted) to evaluate internal consistency and test-retest reliability. Participants also completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), the modified Medical Research Council scale, the COPD Assessment Test, and Saint George's Respiratory Questionnaire to evaluate criterion validity. Results: The C-PPAC instrument showed good internal consistency and excellent test-retest reliability: "amount" domain = 0.87 (95% CI, 0.73-0.94) and "difficulty" domain = 0.90 (95% CI, 0.76-0.96). Bland & Altman plots, together with high Lin's concordance correlation coefficients, reinforced that agreement. Criterion validity showed moderate-to-strong correlations of the C-PPAC with all of the other instruments evaluated, especially with the IPAQ (rho = −0.63). Conclusions: The Brazilian Portuguese version of the C-PPAC is a reliable and valid instrument for evaluating the experience of Brazilian individuals with COPD with their physical activity in daily life.

RESUMO Objetivo: Adaptar o instrumento PROactive Physical Activity in COPD - clinical visit (C-PPAC) ao contexto cultural brasileiro e determinar a validade de critério, concordância da confiabilidade teste-reteste e consistência interna dessa versão. Métodos: Um protocolo de adaptação cultural e validação foi fornecido pelos autores do instrumento original e, juntamente com outra diretriz, foi aplicado em uma versão em português desenvolvida por um grupo de pesquisa parceiro de Portugal. A versão brasileira adaptada foi então aplicada transversalmente duas vezes, com intervalo de sete dias, em 30 indivíduos com DPOC (57% de homens; média de idade de 69 ± 6 anos; e média do VEF1 de 53 ± 18% do previsto) para avaliação da consistência interna e da confiabilidade teste-reteste. Os participantes também responderam ao International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), à escala modificada do Medical Research Council, ao COPD Assessment Test e ao Saint George's Respiratory Questionnaire para avaliação da validade de critério. Resultados: O instrumento C-PPAC apresentou boa consistência interna e excelente confiabilidade teste-reteste: domínio "quantidade" = 0,87 (IC95%: 0,73-0,94) e domínio "dificuldade" = 0,90 (IC95%: 0,76-0,96). As disposições gráficas de Bland-Altman, juntamente com os altos coeficientes de correlação de concordância de Lin, reforçaram essa concordância. A validade de critério mostrou correlações moderadas a fortes do instrumento C-PPAC com todos os outros instrumentos avaliados, principalmente com o IPAQ (rho = −0,63). Conclusões: A versão brasileira do instrumento C-PPAC é uma ferramenta confiável e válida para avaliar a experiência de indivíduos brasileiros com DPOC em relação à sua atividade física na vida diária.