Maximal respiratory pressures: Measurements at functional residual capacity in individuals with different health conditions using a digital manometer.

BACKGROUND: Measuring maximal respiratory pressure is a widely used method of investigating the strength of inspiratory and expiratory muscles. OBJECTIVES: To compare inspiratory pressures obtained at functional residual capacity (FRC) with measures at residual volume (RV), and expiratory pressures obtained at FRC with measures at total lung capacity (TLC) in individuals with different health conditions: post-COVID-19, COPD, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), heart failure (CHF), and stroke; and to compare the mean differences between measurements at FRC and RV/TLC among the groups. METHODS: Inspiratory and expiratory pressures were obtained randomly at different lung volumes. Mixed factorial analysis of covariance with repeated measures was used to compare measurements at different lung volumes within and among groups. RESULTS: Seventy-five individuals were included in the final analyses (15 individuals with each health condition). Maximal inspiratory pressures at FRC were lower than RV [mean difference (95% CI): 11.3 (5.8, 16.8); 8.4 (2.3, 14.5); 11.1 (5.5, 16.7); 12.8 (7.1, 18.4); 8.0 (2.6, 13.4) for COVID-19, COPD, IPF, CHF, and stroke, respectively] and maximal expiratory pressures at FRC were lower than TLC [mean difference (95% CI): 51.9 (37.4, 55.5); 60.9 (44.2, 77.7); 62.9 (48.1, 77.8); 58.0 (43.9, 73.8); 57.2 (42.9, 71.6) for COVID-19, COPD, IPF, CHF, and stroke, respectively]. All mean differences were similar among groups. CONCLUSION: Although inspiratory and expiratory pressures at FRC were lower than measures obtained at RV/TLC for the five groups of health conditions, the mean differences between measurements at different lung volumes were similar among groups, which raises the discussion about the influence of the viscoelastic properties of the lungs on maximal respiratory pressure.

Floor Maze Test is capable of differentiating spatial navigation between frail and pre-frail institutionalized older persons.

Investigation of the association between physical frailty and cognitive performance through spatial navigation is important to enable the identification of individuals with cognitive impairment and physical comorbidity. Objective: To analyze the association between spatial navigation and frailty in frail and pre-frail institutionalized older adults. Methods: Forty older people of both sexes, aged 60 years or over, residing in four Brazilian Long-Term Care Facilities (LTCFs) participated in this study. The following tests were applied: Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), 2.44m Timed Up and Go, Floor Maze Test (FMT), and Fried's frailty criteria. For data analysis, the Mann-Whitney and independent t-tests were used to compare the groups (frail x pre-frail), principal component analysis was used to explore the main variables related to the data variance, and binary logistic regression to estimate associations. Results: There was a significant difference in performance in the FMT immediate maze time (IMT) (p=0.02) and in the delayed maze time (DMT) (p=0.009) between the pre-frail and frail older adults. An association between FMT DMT performance and frailty was found, showing that older people with shorter times on the DMT (better performance) had approximately four times the chance of not being frail (odds ratio - OR=4.219, 95% confidence interval - 95%CI 1.084-16.426, p=0.038). Conclusion: Frailty is associated with impaired spatial navigation ability in institutionalized older adults, regardless of gait speed performance.

A investigação da associação entre fragilidade física e desempenho cognitivo por meio da navegação espacial é importante para possibilitar a identificação de indivíduos com déficit cognitivo e comorbidade física. Objetivo: Analisar a associação entre navegação espacial e fragilidade em idosos institucionalizados frágeis e pré-frágeis. Métodos: Participaram deste estudo 40 idosos de ambos os sexos, com idade igual ou superior a 60 anos, residentes em quatro instituições de longa permanência (ILPI) brasileiras. Foram aplicados os seguintes testes: Miniexame do Estado Mental (MEEM), 2,44m Timed Up and Go, Floor Maze Test (FMT) e os critérios de fragilidade de Fried. Para a análise dos dados, foram utilizados os testes t independente e de Mann-Whitney para comparar os grupos (frágeis x pré-frágeis), foi feita análise de componentes principais para explorar as principais variáveis relacionadas à variância dos dados e regressão logística binária para estimar associações. Resultados: Houve diferença significativa no desempenho do FMT no tempo imediato do labirinto (TIL) (p=0,02) e no tempo posterior do labirinto (TPL) (p=0,009) entre os idosos pré-frágeis e frágeis. Encontrou-se associação entre o desempenho no FMT TPL e fragilidade, mostrando que idosos com menor tempo de TPL (melhor desempenho) tiveram aproximadamente quatro vezes mais chance de não serem frágeis (odds ratio ­ OR=4,219, intervalo de confiança de 95% ­ IC95% 1,084­16,426, p=0,038). Conclusão: A fragilidade está associada à habilidade de navegação espacial prejudicada em idosos institucionalizados, independentemente do desempenho da velocidade da marcha.

Floor Maze Test is capable of differentiating spatial navigation between frail and pre-frail institutionalized older persons / Floor Maze Test é capaz de diferenciar a navegação espacial entre idosos institucionalizados frágeis e pré-frágeis

ABSTRACT. Investigation of the association between physical frailty and cognitive performance through spatial navigation is important to enable the identification of individuals with cognitive impairment and physical comorbidity. Objective: To analyze the association between spatial navigation and frailty in frail and pre-frail institutionalized older adults. Methods: Forty older people of both sexes, aged 60 years or over, residing in four Brazilian Long-Term Care Facilities (LTCFs) participated in this study. The following tests were applied: Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), 2.44m Timed Up and Go, Floor Maze Test (FMT), and Fried's frailty criteria. For data analysis, the Mann-Whitney and independent t-tests were used to compare the groups (frail x pre-frail), principal component analysis was used to explore the main variables related to the data variance, and binary logistic regression to estimate associations. Results: There was a significant difference in performance in the FMT immediate maze time (IMT) (p=0.02) and in the delayed maze time (DMT) (p=0.009) between the pre-frail and frail older adults. An association between FMT DMT performance and frailty was found, showing that older people with shorter times on the DMT (better performance) had approximately four times the chance of not being frail (odds ratio - OR=4.219, 95% confidence interval - 95%CI 1.084-16.426, p=0.038). Conclusion: Frailty is associated with impaired spatial navigation ability in institutionalized older adults, regardless of gait speed performance.

RESUMO. A investigação da associação entre fragilidade física e desempenho cognitivo por meio da navegação espacial é importante para possibilitar a identificação de indivíduos com déficit cognitivo e comorbidade física. Objetivo: Analisar a associação entre navegação espacial e fragilidade em idosos institucionalizados frágeis e pré-frágeis. Métodos: Participaram deste estudo 40 idosos de ambos os sexos, com idade igual ou superior a 60 anos, residentes em quatro instituições de longa permanência (ILPI) brasileiras. Foram aplicados os seguintes testes: Miniexame do Estado Mental (MEEM), 2,44m Timed Up and Go, Floor Maze Test (FMT) e os critérios de fragilidade de Fried. Para a análise dos dados, foram utilizados os testes t independente e de Mann-Whitney para comparar os grupos (frágeis x pré-frágeis), foi feita análise de componentes principais para explorar as principais variáveis relacionadas à variância dos dados e regressão logística binária para estimar associações. Resultados: Houve diferença significativa no desempenho do FMT no tempo imediato do labirinto (TIL) (p=0,02) e no tempo posterior do labirinto (TPL) (p=0,009) entre os idosos pré-frágeis e frágeis. Encontrou-se associação entre o desempenho no FMT TPL e fragilidade, mostrando que idosos com menor tempo de TPL (melhor desempenho) tiveram aproximadamente quatro vezes mais chance de não serem frágeis (odds ratio - OR=4,219, intervalo de confiança de 95% - IC95% 1,084-16,426, p=0,038). Conclusão: A fragilidade está associada à habilidade de navegação espacial prejudicada em idosos institucionalizados, independentemente do desempenho da velocidade da marcha.

Aplicação do IVCF-20 adaptado para o telefone como estratégia de avaliação em tempos de Covid-19 / Application of the ivcf-20 adapted for the phone as an evaluation strategy in times of Covid-19

Introdução: o risco de fragilidade em idosos é algo que deve ser monitorizado, sendo importante seu acompanhamento pelo sistema de saúde, especialmente durante uma pandemia. Objetivo: estimar o risco de fragilidade em idosos comunitários adscritos de uma Unidade Básica de Saúde (UBS) durante a pandemia de COVID-19 com a aplicação do questionário de Índice de Vulnerabilidade Clínico-Funcional-20 (IVCF-20) adaptado para telefone. Métodos: estudo transversal com 152 idosos (≥ 60 anos) de ambos os sexos, cadastrados na Estratégia em Saúde da Família referente a uma UBS na região urbana de Londrina-PR. A coleta de dados foi realizada em etapa única, durante contato telefônico, utilizando para o registro de informações o IVCF-20, sendo realizadas três tentativas de contato telefônico. Resultados: 68,4% dos idosos eram hipertensos e 24,3% diabéticos. Com relação à moradia, 94,7% dos idosos "não" moram sozinhos e 70,4% possuem uma "boa percepção de saúde". Para classificação do IVCF-20, 73,0% dos homens são classificados como "robustos", quando comparados às mulheres (51,7%). Conclusão: a aplicação do IVCF-20 por telefone apresenta capacidade de uso em momentos de risco para a saúde pública, como a pandemia de COVID-19.

Introduction: The risk of frailty in the elderly is something that must be monitored, and its monitoring by the health system is important, especially during a pandemic. Objective: to estimate the risk of frailty in community-dwelling elderly people enrolled in a Basic Health Unit (BHU) during the COVID-19 pandemic with the application of the Clinical-Functional Vulnerability Index-20 (CFVI-20) questionnaire adapted for telephone use. Methods: cross-sectional study with 152 elderly (≥ 60 years) of both sexes, registered in the Family Health Strategy referring to a BHU in the urban region of Londrina-PR. Data collection was carried out in a single step, during telephone contact, using the CFVI-20 to record information, with three telephone contact attempts being made. Results: 68.4% of the elderly were hypertensive and 24.3% diabetic. With regard to housing, 94.7% of the elderly "don't" live alone and 70.4% have a "good perception of health". For the CFVI-20 classification, 73.0% of men are classified as "robust" when compared to women (51.7%). Conclusion: the application of the CFVI-20 by telephone is capable of being used in moments of risk to public health, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Functionality and disease severity in spinocerebellar ataxias / Relação entre a função e a gravidade nas ataxias espinocerebelares

ABSTRACT Background: Spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) are a group of neurodegenerative diseases characterized by deterioration of balance and functionality that tends to follow disease progression. There is no established link between formal clinical markers for severity and functional/balance scores that could guide rehabilitation teams. Objective: To evaluate the relationship between functional scales and ataxia severity in order to identify cutoff landmarks for functional loss and estimate the mean SARA (Scale for Assessment and Rating of Ataxia) score for the risk ratings for falls on the BBS (Berg Balance Scale). Methods: Consecutive patients with a molecular diagnosis of SCA (total 89: 31 with SCA2 and 58 with SCA3) were assessed for functionality FIM-ADL (Functional Independence Measure-activities of daily living and Lawton-IADL (instrumental activities of daily living), balance (BBS) and disease severity (SARA). Results: The main disability cutoff landmarks were that the need for supervision for FIM-ADL starts with 12 points on SARA and the need for supervision for Lawton-IADL starts with 14 points on SARA. The first items to require assistance were "expression" and "shopping", respectively. At 20 points on SARA, patients were dependent on all FIM and Lawton items. The item with the greatest impact on distinguishing dependents from independents was "means of transport" in Lawton-IADL and the domain "locomotion" in FIM-ADL. The mean SARA score for patients classified as low risk in the BBS was 9.9 points, and it was 17.4 for medium risk and 25.2 for high risk. Conclusions: Analysis on the correlation between the severity of ataxia and functional scales can form an important guide for understanding the progression of functional dependence among individuals with SCAs.

RESUMO Antecedentes: As ataxias espinocerebelares (SCA) são um grupo de doenças neurodegenerativas caracterizadas pela deterioração do equilíbrio e da funcionalidade, que tende a acompanhar a progressão da doença. Não existe uma ligação estabelecida entre os marcadores clínicos formais de gravidade e escores funcionais e de equilíbrio que possam orientar as equipes de reabilitação. Objetivo: Avaliar a relação entre escalas funcionais e de gravidade da ataxia, buscando identificar pontos de corte para a perda funcional relacionados aos escores de gravidade e aos patamares de Risco de Quedas. Métodos: Uma amostra consecutiva de 89 pacientes com diagnóstico molecular de SCA (31-SCA2 e 58-SCA3) foram avaliados para funcionalidade MIF-AVDs (Medida de independência funcional-Atividades da vida diária) e Lawton-AIVDs (Atividades instrumentais da vida diária), equilíbrio (EEB-escala de Equilíbrio de Berg), e gravidade da ataxia (SARA-escala para avaliação e graduação de ataxia). Resultados: Os principais pontos de corte de deficiência foram: com 12 pontos no SARA começa a necessidade de supervisão para MIF-AVDs e com 14 pontos no SARA começa a necessidade de supervisão para Lawton-AIVDs. Os primeiros itens a necessitar de assistência foram "expressão" e "compras", respectivamente. Com 20 pontos no SARA os pacientes eram dependentes em todos os itens MIF/LAWTON. O item com maior impacto na discriminação entre dependentes e independentes foi "meio de transporte" na Lawton e o domínio "locomoção" na MIF. O escore médio no SARA foi de 9,9 pontos para pacientes classificados com baixo risco na EEB, 17,4 para médio risco e 25,2 para alto risco. Conclusões: A análise da correlação entre a gravidade da ataxia e as escalas funcionais pode ser um importante guia no entendimento da progressão da dependência funcional em indivíduos com SCA.

New method for evaluating maximal respiratory pressures: Concurrent validity, test-retest, and inter-rater reliability.

BACKGROUND: Maximal respiratory pressures (MRP) obtained at functional residual capacity (FRC) may reflect the real respiratory muscle pressure. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate concurrent validity, test-retest, and inter-rater reliability of MRP performed with a new instrument in healthy individuals, and to compare values obtained at different volumes in healthy individuals and individuals with COPD. METHODS: MRP of 100 healthy individuals were obtained using the TrueForce and the MicroRPM® at residual volume (RV) and total lung capacity (TLC) to evaluate concurrent validity. MRP were obtained at FRC using the TrueForce to evaluate reliability. Comparisons of inspiratory pressure values (FRC compared to RV) and expiratory pressure values (FRC compared to TLC) were performed with 100 healthy individuals and 15 individuals with COPD. RESULTS: The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.77 and 0.86 for concurrent validity for inspiratory and expiratory pressures, respectively. Test-retest reliability showed an ICC of 0.87 for inspiratory pressure, and 0.78 for expiratory pressure; inter-rater reliability showed an ICC of 0.91 for inspiratory pressure, and 0.84 for expiratory pressure. Measurements performed at RV and TLC were higher when compared to FRC [mean difference (95%CI)= -8.30 (-11.82, -4.78) cmH2O; -37.29 (-42.63, -31.96) cmH2O] in healthy individuals, and -11.09 (-15.83, -6.35) cmH2O; -57.14 (-71.05, -43.05) cmH2O in COPD, for inspiratory and expiratory pressures, respectively. CONCLUSION: MRP performed with the TrueForce presented good concurrent validity, good test-retest reliability, excellent inter-rater reliability for inspiratory pressure and good inter-rater reliability for expiratory pressure. MRP were lower when obtained at FRC for healthy individuals and with COPD.

Cardiac autonomic modulation response and functional capacity in older women / Respuesta de la modulación autonómica cardíaca y capacidad funcional en mujeres mayores / Resposta da modulação autonômica cardíaca e capacidade funcional em mulheres idosas

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze cardiac autonomic modulation response and functional capacity in physically active older women. Methods: Seventy-five older women (60-70 years) from the community were divided into the following groups: sedentary (n=19), hydro-gymnastics (n=18), pilates (n=19), and dance (n=19). Blood pressure, body composition, heart rate variability, and functional capacity were assessed for the characterization of the groups at rest and 48 hours after the last physical exercise session. Results: The sedentary group presented higher waist-to-hip ratio, diastolic blood pressure, and resting heart rate compared to the other groups (p<0.05). It was also observed that the dance group presented better functional capacity and VO2peak scores (all p<0.05). Regarding cardiac autonomic modulation, both dance and pilates groups demonstrated better RMSSD (26.71 ± 9.07 and 29.82 ± 7.16, respectively; p<0.05), LF (45.79 ± 14.81 and 45.95 ± 15.16 n.u., respectively; p<0.05), and LF/HF (0.92 ± 0.56 and 0.58 ± 0.26, respectively; p<0.05) scores. In the symbolic analysis, the dance group had a greater predominance of parasympathetic autonomic modulation than the other groups (p<0.05). Conclusion: These results conclude that physically active elderly women, practicing hydro-gymnastics, pilates or dance, presented physiological benefits, such as better functional capacity and improvements in hemodynamic variables and autonomic cardiac modulation. In addition, the group that practiced dance presented greater parasympathetic modulation, as well as greater functional capacity, when compared to the other modalities. Level of evidence: I; STARD: studies of diagnostic accuracy.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Analizar la respuesta de la modulación autonómica cardíaca y la capacidad funcional en mujeres mayores físicamente activas. Métodos: Setenta y cinco mujeres mayores (60 a 70 años) de la comunidad fueron divididas en los siguientes grupos: sedentaria (n = 19), hidrogimnasia (n = 18), pilates (n = 19) y danza (n = 19). La presión arterial, la composición corporal, la variabilidad de la frecuencia cardíaca y la capacidad funcional fueron evaluadas para la caracterización de los grupos en reposo y 48 horas después de la última sesión de ejercicio físico. Resultados: El grupo sedentario presentó mayor relación cintura-cadera, presión arterial diastólica y frecuencia cardíaca en reposo cuando comparado a los otros grupos (p <0,05). Se observó que el grupo de danza presentó mejores puntajes de capacidad funcional y VO2Pico (todos p <0,05). Con relación a la modulación autonómica cardíaca, los grupos de danza y pilates demostraron mejores puntajes para RMSSD (26,71 ± 9,07 y 29,82 ± 7,16, respectivamente; p <0,05), LF (45,79 ± 14,81 y 45,95 ± 15,16 nu, respectivamente; p <0,05), y LF/HF (0,92 ± 0,56 y 0,58 ± 0,26, respectivamente; p <0,05). En el análisis simbólico, el grupo de danza presentó mayor predominancia de la modulación autonómica parasimpática que los demás grupos (p <0,05). Conclusión: Esos resultados concluyen que las mujeres mayores físicamente activas, practicantes de hidrogimnasia, pilates o danza, tienen beneficios fisiológicos, como mejor capacidad funcional y mejora de las variables hemodinámicas y de la modulación cardíaca autonómica. Además, el grupo que practicaba danza tuvo mayor modulación parasimpática y mayor capacidad funcional cuando comparado con las otras modalidades. Nivel de evidencia: I; STARD: estudios de precisión diagnóstica.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a resposta da modulação autonômica cardíaca e a capacidade funcional em idosas fisicamente ativas. Métodos: Setenta e cinco mulheres idosas (60 a 70 anos) da comunidade foram divididas nos seguintes grupos: sedentária (n = 19), hidroginástica (n = 18), pilates (n = 19) e dança (n = 19). A pressão arterial, a composição corporal, a variabilidade da frequência cardíaca e a capacidade funcional foram avaliadas para a caracterização dos grupos em repouso e 48 horas depois da última sessão de exercício físico. Resultados: O grupo sedentário apresentou maior relação cintura-quadril, pressão arterial diastólica e frequência cardíaca em repouso quando comparado aos outros grupos (p <0,05). Observou-se também que o grupo da dança apresentou melhores escores de capacidade funcional e VO2pico (todos p < 0,05). Com relação à modulação autonômica cardíaca, os grupos de dança e pilates demonstraram melhores escores para RMSSD (26,71 ± 9,07 e 29,82 ± 7,16, respectivamente; p < 0,05), LF (45,79 ± 14,81 e 45,95 ± 15,16 nu, respectivamente; p<0,05) e LF/HF (0,92 ± 0,56 e 0,58 ± 0,26, respectivamente; p < 0,05). Na análise simbólica, o grupo da dança apresentou maior predominância da modulação autonômica parassimpática do que os demais grupos (p < 0,05). Conclusão: Esses resultados concluem que idosas fisicamente ativas praticantes de hidroginástica, pilates ou dança, têm benefícios fisiológicos, como melhor capacidade funcional e melhora das variáveis hemodinâmicas e da modulação cardíaca autonômica. Além disso, o grupo que praticava dança teve maior modulação parassimpática e maior capacidade funcional quando comparado com outras modalidades. Nível de evidência: I; STARD: estudos de precisão diagnóstica.

Short-Term Effects of a Resistance Training Program Using Elastic Tubing in Patients with Heart Disease

Abstract Background Resistance training is effective in cardiac rehabilitation; however, it is conventionally performed using free weights or machines, which can pose logistic challenges to patients with restricted mobility. For its ease of access and cost-effectiveness, elastic tubing is a particularly appealing alternative, but it remains underutilized for this purpose. Objective To evaluate muscle strength, functional capacity, aerobic capacity, and quality of life in patients with heart disease in phase II of cardiovascular rehabilitation after a resistance training intervention based solely on elastic tubing. Methods Thirteen patients with heart disease (age 63.33±10.80 years) trained with elastic tubing twice weekly for 6 weeks, with progressive load increase every 15 days. The following muscle groups were evaluated and trained: shoulder abductors and flexors, elbow flexors, and knee flexors and extensors. Muscle strength was evaluated using a dynamometer; functional capacity, with a 6-minute walk test and cardiopulmonary exercise test; and quality of life, using the SF-36 questionnaire. Data normality was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test. The paired Student's t-test was used for comparisons before and after training, at a significance level of <5%. Results There were significant differences in muscle strength (except for elbow flexion) and functional capacity (485.5 ± 123.3 vs 578.7 ± 110.5; p=0.0399) after the intervention. No statistical differences were found in cardiorespiratory fitness or quality of life. Conclusions Short-term resistance training with elastic tubing improved peripheral muscle strength and functional capacity in patients with heart disease, and should be encouraged for this population. (Int J Cardiovasc Sci. 2020; xx(x):xxx-xxx)

The Effect of Extended Continuous Positive Airway Pressure on Changes in Lung Volumes in Stable Premature Infants: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To compare changes in lung volumes, as measured by functional residual capacity (FRC), through to discharge in stable infants randomized to 2 weeks of extended continuous positive airway pressure CPAP (eCPAP) vs CPAP discontinuation (dCPAP). STUDY DESIGN: Infants born at ≤32 weeks of gestation requiring ≥24 hours of CPAP were randomized to 2 weeks of eCPAP vs dCPAP when meeting CPAP stability criteria. FRC was measured with the nitrogen washout technique. Infants were stratified by gestational age (<28 and ≥ 28 weeks) and twin gestation. A linear mixed-effects model was used to evaluate the change in FRC between the 2 groups. Data were analyzed blinded to treatment group allocation. RESULTS: Fifty infants were randomized with 6 excluded, for a total of 44 infants. Baseline characteristics were similar in the 2 groups. The infants randomized to eCPAP vs dCPAP had a greater increase in FRC from randomization through 2 weeks (12.6 mL vs 6.4 mL; adjusted 95% CI, 0.78-13.47; P = .03) and from randomization through discharge (27.2 mL vs 17.1 mL; adjusted 95% CI, 2.61-17.59; P = .01). CONCLUSIONS: Premature infants randomized to eCPAP had a significantly greater increase in FRC through discharge compared with those randomized to dCPAP. An increased change in FRC may lead to improved respiratory health. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02249143.

Relación de los índices de masa corporal y cintura-cadera con la capacidad residual funcional pulmonar en niños chilenos obesos versus normopeso: un estudio transversal / Relation among body mass index, waist-hip ratio, and pulmonary functional residual capacity in normal weight versus obese Chilean children: A cross-sectional study

Introducción. La obesidad está asociada a un descenso acelerado de la función ventilatoria. Las formas más frecuentes de evaluar el estado nutricional y medir la grasa abdominal y las caderas son el índice de masa corporal (IMC) y el índice cintura-cadera (ICC). Existe escasa evidencia que sugiera su relación con la capacidad residual funcional (CRF). Nuestro objetivo fue determinar la relación entre el IMC, el ICC y la CRF en niños obesos de la ciudad de Talca, Chile. Población y métodos. Se reclutaron niños de ambos sexos (6-12 años). Se evaluaron peso, talla, IMC, ICC y función pulmonar a través de pletismografía corporal. Dependiendo de la distribución de los datos, se utilizó la prueba t de Student o U de Mann-Whitney para muestras independientes y, la prueba r de Pearson o Spearman para establecer la correlación entre ICC y CRF. Resultados. Los niños se dividieron en normopeso (n= 18) y obesos (n= 18). Se reportó una disminución significativa de la CRF (p= 0,025) en niños obesos y una relación inversa entre ICC y CRF, la cual fue moderada en niños normopeso (s= -0,489; p= 0,03) y alta en obesos (r= -0,681; p= 0,001). Conclusiones. Los niños obesos mostraron una menor CRF respecto de los normopeso, que, a su vez, se relacionó con el ICC. Estos resultados indican efectos sistémicos que produce la obesidad en la función ventilatoria en niños y la necesidad de incorporar indicadores de distribución de grasa corporal a temprana edad.

Introduction. Obesity is associated with a rapid decrease in ventilatory function. The most common way of assessing nutritional status and measuring abdominal fat and hips are the body mass index (BMI) and the waist-hip ratio (WHR). There is scarce evidence suggesting their relation to functional residual capacity (FRC). Our objective was to determine the relation among BMI, WHR, and FRC in obese children in the city of Talca, Chile. Population and methods. Male and female children were recruited (6-12 years). Weight, height, BMI, WHR, and pulmonary function were assessed; the latter with body plethysmography. Depending on data distribution, Student's t test or the Mann-Whitney U test were used for independent samples, while Pearson's or Spearman's r test was used to establish the correlation between WHR and FRC. Results. Children were divided into normal weight (n = 18) and obese (n = 18). A significant reduction in FRC (p = 0.025) was reported in obese children, while a reverse association was observed between WHR and FRC, which was moderate in normal weight children (s = -0.489; p = 0.03) and high in obese children (r = -0.681; p = 0.001). Conclusions. Obese children showed a lower FRC compared to normal weight children, which, in turn, was associated with WHR. These results are indicative of the systemic effects caused by obesity on children's ventilatory function and the need to use body fat distribution indicators at an early age.

Relation among body mass index, waist-hip ratio, and pulmonary functional residual capacity in normal weight versus obese Chilean children: A cross-sectional study. / Relación de los índices de masa corporal y cintura-cadera con la capacidad residual funcional pulmonar en niños chilenos obesos versus normopeso: un estudio transversal.

INTRODUCTION: Obesity is associated with a rapid decrease in ventilatory function. The most common way of assessing nutritional status and measuring abdominal fat and hips are the body mass index (BMI) and the waist-hip ratio (WHR). There is scarce evidence suggesting their relation to functional residual capacity (FRC). Our objective was to determine the relation among BMI, WHR, and FRC in obese children in the city of Talca, Chile. POPULATION AND METHODS: Male and female children were recruited (6-12 years). Weight, height, BMI, WHR, and pulmonary function were assessed; the latter with body plethysmography. Depending on data distribution, Student's t test or the Mann-Whitney U test were used for independent samples, while Pearson's or Spearman's r test was used to establish the correlation between WHR and FRC. RESULTS: Children were divided into normal weight (n = 18) and obese (n = 18). A significant reduction in FRC (p = 0.025) was reported in obese children, while a reverse association was observed between WHR and FRC, which was moderate in normal weight children (s = -0.489; p = 0.03) and high in obese children (r = -0.681; p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Obese children showed a lower FRC compared to normal weight children, which, in turn, was associated with WHR. These results are indicative of the systemic effects caused by obesity on children's ventilatory function and the need to use body fat distribution indicators at an early age.

Introducción. La obesidad está asociada a un descenso acelerado de la función ventilatoria. Las formas más frecuentes de evaluar el estado nutricional y medir la grasa abdominal y las caderas son el índice de masa corporal (IMC) y el índice cintura-cadera (ICC). Existe escasa evidencia que sugiera su relación con la capacidad residual funcional (CRF). Nuestro objetivo fue determinar la relación entre el IMC, el ICC y la CRF en niños obesos de la ciudad de Talca, Chile. Población y métodos. Se reclutaron niños de ambos sexos (6-12 años). Se evaluaron peso, talla, IMC, ICC y función pulmonar a través de pletismografía corporal. Dependiendo de la distribución de los datos, se utilizó la prueba t de Student o U de Mann-Whitney para muestras independientes y, la prueba r de Pearson o Spearman para establecer la correlación entre ICC y CRF. Resultados. Los niños se dividieron en normopeso (n= 18) y obesos (n= 18). Se reportó una disminución significativa de la CRF (p= 0,025) en niños obesos y una relación inversa entre ICC y CRF, la cual fue moderada en niños normopeso (s= -0,489; p= 0,03) y alta en obesos (r= -0,681; p= 0,001). Conclusiones. Los niños obesos mostraron una menor CRF respecto de los normopeso, que, a su vez, se relacionó con el ICC. Estos resultados indican efectos sistémicos que produce la obesidad en la función ventilatoria en niños y la necesidad de incorporar indicadores de distribución de grasa corporal a temprana edad.

Generalized estimation of the ventilatory distribution from the multiple-breath washout: a bench evaluation study.

BACKGROUND: The multiple-breath washout (MBW) is able to provide information about the distribution of ventilation-to-volume (v/V) ratios in the lungs. However, the classical, all-parallel model may return skewed results due to the mixing effect of a common dead space. The aim of this work is to examine whether a novel mathematical model and algorithm is able to estimate v/V of a physical model, and to compare its results with those of the classical model. The novel model takes into account a dead space in series with the parallel ventilated compartments, allows for variable tidal volume (VT) and end-expiratory lung volume (EELV), and does not require a ideal step change of the inert gas concentration. METHODS: Two physical models with preset v/V units and a common series dead space (vd) were built and mechanically ventilated. The models underwent MBW with N2 as inert gas, throughout which flow and N2 concentration signals were acquired. Distribution of v/V was estimated-via nonnegative least squares, with Tikhonov regularization-with the classical, all-parallel model (with and without correction for non-ideal inspiratory N2 step) and with the new, generalized model including breath-by-breath vd estimates given by the Fowler method (with and without constrained VT and EELV). RESULTS: The v/V distributions estimated with constrained EELV and VT by the generalized model were practically coincident with the actual v/V distribution for both physical models. The v/V distributions calculated with the classical model were shifted leftwards and broader as compared to the reference. CONCLUSIONS: The proposed model and algorithm provided better estimates of v/V than the classical model, particularly with constrained VT and EELV.

Functional residual capacity increase during laparoscopic surgery with abdominal wall lift / Aumento da capacidade residual funcional durante cirurgia laparoscópica com elevação da parede abdominal

Abstract Background and objectives: The number of laparoscopic surgeries performed is increasing every year and in most cases the pneumoperitoneum method is used. One alternative is the abdominal wall lifting method and this study was undertaken to evaluate changes of functional residual capacity during the abdominal wall lift procedure. Methods: From January to April 2013, 20 patients underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy at a single institution. All patients were anesthetized using propofol, remifentanil and rocuronium. FRC was measured automatically by Engstrom Carestation before the abdominal wall lift and again 15 minutes after the start of the procedure. Results: After abdominal wall lift, there was a significant increase in functional residual capacity values (before abdominal wall lift 1.48 × 103 mL, after abdominal wall lift 1.64 × 103 mL) (p < 0.0001). No complications such as desaturation were observed in any patient during this study. Conclusions: Laparoscopic surgery with abdominal wall lift may be appropriate for patients who have risk factors such as obesity and respiratory disease.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos: O número de cirurgias laparoscópicas feitas tem aumentado a cada ano e, na maioria dos casos, o método com pneumoperitônio é o escolhido. Uma opção é o método de elevação da parede abdominal. Este estudo foi feito para avaliar as alterações da capacidade residual funcional durante o procedimento de elevação da parede abdominal. Métodos: De janeiro a abril de 2013, 20 pacientes foram submetidos à colecistectomia laparoscópica em uma única instituição. Todos foram anestesiados com propofol, remifentanil e rocurônio. A CRF foi medida automaticamente com o Engström Carestation antes da elevação da parede abdominal e, novamente, 15 minutos após o início do procedimento. Resultados: Após elevar a parede abdominal, um aumento significativo foi observado nos valores da capacidade residual funcional (antes da elevação da parede abdominal: 1,48 × 103 mL: após a elevação da parede abdominal: 1,64 × 103 mL) (p <0,0001). Não houve complicações, como dessaturação, em nenhum paciente durante este estudo. Conclusões: A cirurgia laparoscópica com elevador da parede abdominal pode ser apropriada para pacientes com fatores de risco como obesidade e doenças respiratórias.

[Functional residual capacity increase during laparoscopic surgery with abdominal wall lift]. / Aumento da capacidade residual funcional durante cirurgia laparoscópica com elevação da parede abdominal.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The number of laparoscopic surgeries performed is increasing every year and in most cases the pneumoperitoneum method is used. One alternative is the abdominal wall lifting method and this study was undertaken to evaluate changes of functional residual capacity during the abdominal wall lift procedure. METHODS: From January to April 2013, 20 patients underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy at a single institution. All patients were anesthetized using propofol, remifentanil and rocuronium. FRC was measured automatically by Engstrom Carestation before the abdominal wall lift and again 15minutes after the start of the procedure. RESULTS: After abdominal wall lift, there was a significant increase in functional residual capacity values (before abdominal wall lift 1.48×103mL, after abdominal wall lift 1.64×103mL) (p<0.0001). No complications such as desaturation were observed in any patient during this study. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic surgery with abdominal wall lift may be appropriate for patients who have risk factors such as obesity and respiratory disease.

Pulmonary Function at Hospital Discharge in Preterm Infants Randomized to a Single Rescue Course of Antenatal Steroids.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the pulmonary function, measured at birth and at hospital discharge, of infants whose mothers had been randomized to a single rescue course of antenatal steroids versus those whose mothers had been randomized to placebo. STUDY DESIGN: This study involved follow-up at hospital discharge of subjects of a randomized, double-blinded trial. In the original trial, pregnant women at ≥14 days after their initial course of antenatal steroids and <34 weeks' gestation were randomized to rescue antenatal steroids (44 mothers, 56 infants) or placebo (41 mothers, 57 infants). Passive respiratory compliance (Crs), passive respiratory resistance, and functional residual capacity were measured in all infants at birth and again at discharge to evaluate changes in pulmonary mechanics over time. Statistical analyses were based on intention to treat. RESULTS: We previously reported that compared with infants in the placebo group, infants in the rescue antenatal steroids group had a higher mean Crs value measured within 72 hours of birth (1.21 vs 1.01 mL/cm H2O/kg; P < .05). Here we show that the Crs benefit in the antenatal steroids group was sustained until discharge. Infants in the placebo group demonstrated improvement in Crs such that by discharge, there was no difference in mean Crs between the rescue antenatal steroids and placebo groups (1.18 vs 1.22 mL/cm H2O/kg). CONCLUSIONS: Rescue antenatal steroids significantly increased Crs measured within 72 hours of birth, and this increase was sustained until hospital discharge. Preterm infants in the placebo group demonstrated a decreased initial Crs compared with the rescue antenatal steroids group, but achieved a comparable Crs by the time of discharge. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00669383.

Monitorización de la capacidad residual funcional en pacientes con síndrome de dificultad respiratoria aguda grave. Presentación de un caso y revisión de la literatura / Monitoring of residual functional capacity in patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome. Case report and review of the literature / Monitorização da capacidade residual funcional em pacientes com SDRA grave. Apresentação de um caso e revisão da literatura

Resumen: Se presenta el caso de un paciente masculino en la quinta década de vida con diagnóstico de tumoración renal. Fue ingresado a cirugía para embolización selectiva de arteria renal ipsilateral al sitio de la lesión tumoral. Durante el periodo transoperatorio se presentó hemorragia masiva, por lo cual recibió múltiples transfusiones y se ingresó al área de terapia intensiva. Se documentó lesión renal aguda (AKIN III) y desarrollo de síndrome de dificultad respiratoria aguda (SDRA) grave de acuerdo con los Criterios de Berlín 2012. Se propusieron métodos no convencionales de ventilación entre los cuales la ventilación mecánica inversa, ventilación con liberación de presión (APRV)/bilateral y ventilación controlada a volumen y regulada a presión (PRVC) no mostraron mejoría. Se decidió cambio de estrategia a reclutamiento guiado por la capacidad residual funcional (CRF). Se observó una mejoría en los parámetros de ventilación y niveles de fracción de oxígeno inspirado (FiO2) y evolución grave con desarrollo de pancreatitis y sangrado que requirió intervención quirúrgica con posterior deceso del paciente. Se realiza presentación del caso así como de la revisión de la literatura para maniobras de reclutamiento guiado por CRF.

Abstract: We report the case of a male patient of the 5th decade of life with a diagnosis of renal tumor. Is entered surgery for selective embolization of renal artery ipsilateral to the site of the tumor lesion. During Trans operative, presented massive bleeding, receiving multiple transfusions, requiring admission to intensive care unit. Acute kidney injury (AKIN III) was documented, severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) development according to criteria of Berlin 2012. Unconventional modes of ventilation among which were reverse ventilation, bi-level (APRV) and PRVC were used without improvement. It was decided to change recruitment strategy led by FRC in view, with improved ventilation parameters and levels of FiO2. Poor outcome with subsequent development of pancreatitis and bleeding requiring reoperation with subsequent death of the patient. Case presentation and review of the literature for recruitment maneuvers guided by FRC in view is performed.

Resumo: Apresenta-se o caso de um paciente do sexo masculino na quinta década de vida com um diagnóstico de tumor renal. É admitido a cirurgia para embolização seletiva da artéria renal ipsilateral no local da lesão tumoral. Durante o período transoperatório, apresenta uma hemorragia profusa, pelo que recebeu múltiplas transfusões, e foi admitido na unidade de terapia intensiva. Documenta-se insuficiência renal aguda (AKI lll) e o desenvolvimento de SDRA grave de acordo com critérios de Berlim 2012. Proporciona-se métodos não convencionais de ventilação, entre os quais estavam a ventilação mecânica inversa, ventilação com liberação de pressão (APRV)/bilateral e ventilação controlada a volume e regulada para pressão (PRVC) sem melhoria. Determina-se a mudança de estratégia de recrutamento guiado pela capacidade residual funcional (CRF). Apresenta uma melhoria nos parâmetros de ventilação e níveis da fração de oxigênio inspirado (FiO2). Evolução grave com subsequente desenvolvimento de pancreatite e sangrando, necessitou de intervenção cirurgica, com posterior morte do paciente. É feita apresentação do caso, bem como a revisão da literatura para manobras de recrutamento guiado pelo CRF.

Generalized estimation of the ventilatory distribution from the multiple-breath nitrogen washout.

BACKGROUND: This work presents a generalized technique to estimate pulmonary ventilation-to-volume (v/V) distributions using the multiple-breath nitrogen washout, in which both tidal volume (V T ) and the end-expiratory lung volume (EELV) are allowed to vary during the maneuver. In addition, the volume of the series dead space (v d ), unlike the classical model, is considered a common series unit connected to a set of parallel alveolar units. METHODS: The numerical solution for simulated data, either error-free or with the N2 measurement contaminated with the addition of Gaussian random noise of 3 or 5 % standard deviation was tested under several conditions in a computational model constituted by 50 alveolar units with unimodal and bimodal distributions of v/V. Non-negative least squares regression with Tikhonov regularization was employed for parameter retrieval. The solution was obtained with either unconstrained or constrained (V T , EELV and v d ) conditions. The Tikhonov gain was fixed or estimated and a weighting matrix (WM) was considered. The quality of estimation was evaluated by the sum of the squared errors (SSE) (between reference and recovered distributions) and by the deviations of the first three moments calculated for both distributions. Additionally, a shape classification method was tested to identify the solution as unimodal or bimodal, by counting the number of shape agreements after 1000 repetitions. RESULTS: The accuracy of the results showed a high dependence on the noise amplitude. The best algorithm for SSE and moments included the constrained and the WM solvers, whereas shape agreement improved without WM, resulting in 97.2 % for unimodal and 90.0 % for bimodal distributions in the highest noise condition. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion this generalized method was able to identify v/V distributions from a lung model with a common series dead space even with variable V T . Although limitations remain in presence of experimental noise, appropriate combination of processing steps were also found to reduce estimation errors.

Increased lung volume in infants and toddlers at high compared to low altitude.

Children and adults residing at high altitude (HA) compared to low altitude (LA) have larger lung volumes; however, it is unknown whether this response to chronic hypoxia begins early in life. Our objective was to determine whether infants and toddlers at HA have larger lung volumes compared to infants and toddlers at LA. Oxygen saturation (SaO2 ), functional residual capacity (FRC), as well as serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and erythropoietin (EPO) were measured in infants and toddlers from HA (N = 50; 3,440 m) and LA (N = 35; 440 m). There were no significant differences in somatic size for HA and LA subjects; however, HA subjects had significantly lower SaO2 (88.5% vs. 96.7%; P < 0.0001). Subjects at HA had significantly greater FRC compared to subjects at LA (group mean: 209 and 157 ml; P < 0.0001), adjusting for body length. Male infants at HA had a significantly greater FRC compared to males at LA (57 ml; P-value < 0.001); however, the increase in FRC for females at HA compared to LA was not significant (20 ml; P-value = 0.101). VEGF and EPO were significantly higher for subjects at HA compared to LA with no gender differences. In summary, infants and toddlers at HA have lower oxygen saturations, higher serum levels of VEGF and EPO, and higher FRC compared to subjects at LA; however, chronic hypoxia appears to generate a more robust response in lung growth in male compared to female infants early in life.

Estado nutricional e capacidade funcional na úlcera por pressão em pacientes hospitalizados / Nutritional status and functional capacity predispose hospitalized patients to pressure ulcers

OBJETIVO: Correlacionar a incidência de úlcera por pressão com o estado nutricional e a capacidade funcional de pacientes internados. MÉTODOS: Estudo de corte transversal realizado em dois hospitais, totalizando 130 pacientes (idade mediana = 52 (14-85) anos, 77 (59,2 por cento) homens e 53 (40,8 por cento) mulheres), sendo 72 (55,4 por cento) internados para tratamento clínico, 40 (30,8 por cento) para tratamento cirúrgico e 18 (13,8 por cento) em terapia intensiva. Os pacientes foram avaliados pela avaliação subjetiva global e classificados, de acordo com sua capacidade funcional, em acamados e não acamados. Registrou-se a presença e número de úlceras, e sua gravidade. A classificação das úlceras foi estabelecida como grave, para lesões de 3º e 4º graus, e leve, para os graus 1 e 2. RESULTADOS: A incidência de úlcera por pressão na população estudada foi de 19,2 por cento (n=25). Não houve associação significativa com o sexo, a idade e tipo de tratamento do paciente. Os pacientes acamados apresentaram 7,5 vezes mais chance de apresentar úlceras (19/50; 38,0 por cento) do que os que deambulavam (6/80; 7,5 por cento; OR=7,5; IC95 por cento: 2,7-20,7; p<0,001). A incidência de úlcera nos pacientes gravemente desnutridos (20/49; 40,8 por cento) foi 10 vezes maior que nos pacientes considerados não gravemente desnutridos (5/81; 6,1 por cento; OR=10,4 IC95 por cento: 3,6-30,5; p<0,0001) Pela análise multivariada, tanto a capacidade funcional (acamado, OR=9,2; IC95 por cento: 2,8-30,1; p<0,001) quanto o estado nutricional (desnutrido grave, OR=3,8; IC95 por cento: 1,0-13,9; p=0,04) associaram-se com a úlcera por pressão. CONCLUSÃO: A incidência de úlcera por pressão está diretamente correlacionada com a desnutrição e com a restrição ao leito dos pacientes internados.

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated if pressure ulcer correlated with the nutritional status and functional capacity of hospitalized patients. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 130 patients of two hospitals, 77 (59.2 percent) men and 53 (40.8 percent) women. The median age of the sample was 52 (14-85) years. Seventy-two (55.4 percent) patients were hospitalized for clinical treatment, 40 (30.8 percent) for surgical treatment and 18 (13.8 percent) for intensive care. Nutritional status was determined by subjective global assessment. The patients were then classified according to their functional capacity as bedridden or not. The number and severity of pressure ulcers was recorded. Grades 3 and 4 pressure ulcer were considered severe and grades 1 and 2 were considered mild. RESULTS: The incidence of pressure ulcers in the studied population was 19.2 percent (n=25). Pressure ulcer were not associated with gender, age and type of treatment. Bedridden patients were 7.5 times more likely to have pressure ulcer (19/50; 38.0 percent) than those who could walk (6/80; 7.5 percent; OR=7.5; CI95 percent: 2.7-20.7; p<0.001). The incidence of pressure ulcers in severely malnourished patients (20/49; 40.8 percent) was 10 times greater than that of better nourished patients (5/81; 6.1 percent; OR=10.4 CI95 percent: 3.6-30.5; p<0.0001). According to multivariate analysis, both functional capacity (bedridden, OR=9.2; CI95 percent: 2.8-30.1; p<0.001) and nutritional status (severe malnutrition, OR=3.8; CI95 percent: 1.0-13.9; p=0.04) are associated with pressure ulcer. CONCLUSION: Pressure ulcers correlate directly with malnutrition and bedridden status in hospitalized patients.