Noninvasive mechanical ventilation assistance in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a systematic review

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Respiratory failure is the most common cause of death in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and morbidity is related to poor quality of life (QOL). Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) may be associated with prolonged survival and QOL in patients with ALS. OBJECTIVES: To assess whether NIV is effective and safe for patients with ALS in terms of survival and QOL, alerting the health system. DESIGN AND SETTING: Systematic review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses reporting standards using population, intervention, comparison, and outcome strategies. METHODS: The Cochrane Library, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, LILACS, EMBASE, and CRD databases were searched based on the eligibility criteria for all types of studies on NIV use in patients with ALS published up to January 2022. Data were extracted from the included studies, and the findings were presented using a narrative synthesis. RESULTS: Of the 120 papers identified, only 14 were related to systematic reviews. After thorough reading, only one meta-analysis was considered eligible. In the second stage, 248 studies were included; however, only one systematic review was included. The results demonstrated that NIV provided relief from the symptoms of chronic hypoventilation, increased survival, and improved QOL compared to standard care. These results varied according to clinical phenotype. CONCLUSIONS: NIV in patients with ALS improves the outcome and can delay the indication for tracheostomy, reducing expenditure on hospitalization and occupancy of intensive care unit beds. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO database: CRD42021279910 — https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=279910.

Noninvasive mechanical ventilation assistance in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Respiratory failure is the most common cause of death in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and morbidity is related to poor quality of life (QOL). Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) may be associated with prolonged survival and QOL in patients with ALS. OBJECTIVES: To assess whether NIV is effective and safe for patients with ALS in terms of survival and QOL, alerting the health system. DESIGN AND SETTING: Systematic review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses reporting standards using population, intervention, comparison, and outcome strategies. METHODS: The Cochrane Library, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, LILACS, EMBASE, and CRD databases were searched based on the eligibility criteria for all types of studies on NIV use in patients with ALS published up to January 2022. Data were extracted from the included studies, and the findings were presented using a narrative synthesis. RESULTS: Of the 120 papers identified, only 14 were related to systematic reviews. After thorough reading, only one meta-analysis was considered eligible. In the second stage, 248 studies were included; however, only one systematic review was included. The results demonstrated that NIV provided relief from the symptoms of chronic hypoventilation, increased survival, and improved QOL compared to standard care. These results varied according to clinical phenotype. CONCLUSIONS: NIV in patients with ALS improves the outcome and can delay the indication for tracheostomy, reducing expenditure on hospitalization and occupancy of intensive care unit beds. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO database: CRD42021279910 - https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=279910.

Interaction between apolipoprotein E genotypes, excessive daytime sleepiness, and cognitive function in obstructive sleep apnea patients.

BACKGROUND: Some studies show an association between the apolipoprotein E ε4 allele (ApoEε4) and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), and other studies, an association between ApoEε4 and excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), but there are no data in the literature on the interaction between EDS, cognitive function, and ApoEε4 in patients with OSA. OBJECTIVE: To examine the cognitive function of adults with and without EDS and with and without ApoEε4. METHODS: A total of 21 male and female patients aged between 33 and 79 years, underwent a clinical interview, ApoE genotyping, neuropsychological evaluation, polysomnography, and the application of the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. RESULTS: Excessive daytime sleepiness was associated with lower intelligence quotient (IQ; total performance) and worse immediate visual memory, regardless of the ApoE genotype. Patients carrying the ApoEε3/ε4 genotype had a worse performance in divided attention, constructional praxis, perceptual organization, and cognitive flexibility. A combination of the ε4 allele and EDS potentiates the negative effect on cognition, except for immediate visual memory. In this case, patients had a worse performance in terms of processing speed, selective attention, and visuomotor coordination. CONCLUSIONS: Excessive daytime sleepiness and the ApoEε3/ε4 genotype are associated with worse cognitive performance in OSA patients. The combination of EDS and ε4 allele potentiates cognitive impairment.

ANTECEDENTES: Alguns estudos mostram uma associação entre o alelo ε4 da apolipoproteina E (ApoEε4) e a síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono (SAOS), e outros, entre ApoEε4 e a sonolência excessiva diurna (SED), mas não há dados na literatura sobre a interação entre SED, função cognitiva e ApoEε4 em pacientes com SAOS. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a função cognitiva em adultos com SAOS com e sem SED e com e sem ApoEε4. MéTODOS: Ao todo, 21 pacientes, de 33 a 79 anos, homens e mulheres, foram avaliados clinicamente, e submetidos a genotipagem ApoE, avaliação neuropsicológica, polissonografia, e aplicação da Escala de Sonolência de Epworth. RESULTADOS: A SED esteve associada com menor quociente de inteligência (QI; desempenho geral) e pior memória visual imediata, independentemente do genótipo ApoE. Pacientes com genótipo ApoEε3/ε4 apresentaram pior desempenho na atenção dividida, praxe construcional, organização perceptiva e flexibilidade cognitiva. A combinação do alelo ε4 com a SED potencializa esse efeito deletério na cognição, exceto na memória visual imediata. Nesse caso, os pacientes tiveram uma menor velocidade de processamento cognitivo, e piores atenção seletiva e coordenação visiomotora. CONCLUSõES: A SED e o genótipo ApoEε3/ε4 estão associados a um pior desempenho cognitivo em pacientes com SAOS. A combinação de SED e do alelo ε4 potencializa esse efeito.

Interaction between apolipoprotein E genotypes, excessive daytime sleepiness, and cognitive function in obstructive sleep apnea patients / Interação entre genótipos da apolipoproteína E, sonolência excessiva diurna e função cognitiva em pacientes com apneia obstrutiva do sono

Abstract Background Some studies show an association between the apolipoprotein E ε4 allele (ApoEε4) and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), and other studies, an association between ApoEε4 and excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), but there are no data in the literature on the interaction between EDS, cognitive function, and ApoEε4 in patients with OSA. Objective To examine the cognitive function of adults with and without EDS and with and without ApoEε4. Methods A total of 21 male and female patients aged between 33 and 79 years, underwent a clinical interview, ApoE genotyping, neuropsychological evaluation, polysomnography, and the application of the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Results Excessive daytime sleepiness was associated with lower intelligence quotient (IQ; total performance) and worse immediate visual memory, regardless of the ApoE genotype. Patients carrying the ApoEε3/ε4 genotype had a worse performance in divided attention, constructional praxis, perceptual organization, and cognitive flexibility. A combination of the ε4 allele and EDS potentiates the negative effect on cognition, except for immediate visual memory. In this case, patients had a worse performance in terms of processing speed, selective attention, and visuomotor coordination. Conclusions Excessive daytime sleepiness and the ApoEε3/ε4 genotype are associated with worse cognitive performance in OSA patients. The combination of EDS and ε4 allele potentiates cognitive impairment.

Resumo Antecedentes Alguns estudos mostram uma associação entre o alelo ε4 da apolipoproteina E (ApoEε4) e a síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono (SAOS), e outros, entre ApoEε4 e a sonolência excessiva diurna (SED), mas não há dados na literatura sobre a interação entre SED, função cognitiva e ApoEε4 em pacientes com SAOS. Objetivo Avaliar a função cognitiva em adultos com SAOS com e sem SED e com e sem ApoEε4. Métodos Ao todo, 21 pacientes, de 33 a 79 anos, homens e mulheres, foram avaliados clinicamente, e submetidos a genotipagem ApoE, avaliação neuropsicológica, polissonografia, e aplicação da Escala de Sonolência de Epworth. Resultados A SED esteve associada com menor quociente de inteligência (QI; desempenho geral) e pior memória visual imediata, independentemente do genótipo ApoE. Pacientes com genótipo ApoEε3/ε4 apresentaram pior desempenho na atenção dividida, praxe construcional, organização perceptiva e flexibilidade cognitiva. A combinação do alelo ε4 com a SED potencializa esse efeito deletério na cognição, exceto na memória visual imediata. Nesse caso, os pacientes tiveram uma menor velocidade de processamento cognitivo, e piores atenção seletiva e coordenação visiomotora. Conclusões A SED e o genótipo ApoEε3/ε4 estão associados a um pior desempenho cognitivo em pacientes com SAOS. A combinação de SED e do alelo ε4 potencializa esse efeito.

Sleep disorders in multiple sclerosis: a case-control study using the São Paulo Epidemiologic sleep study (Episono) database.

BACKGROUND: Sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome are prevalent in the general population and patients with chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). OBJECTIVES: This study compared the prevalence of sleep disorders complaints, fatigue, depression, and chronotype of adult patients with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) to a representative sample of São Paulo city residents. METHODS: A comparative study was made between PwMS and volunteers from the São Paulo Epidemiologic Sleep Study (Episono) study. We compared the scores of sleep questionnaires using the multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) test to evaluate the effects and analysis of variance (ANOVA) as a follow-up test. Covariates were age, sex, and physical activity. The Pearson correlation test was performed to measure the correlation between Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and the scores of the sleep questionnaires. Finally, we applied propensity score matching to reduce bias in estimating differences between the two groups. Analyses were performed using Stata 14 (StataCorp, College Station, TX, USA) and IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows version 22.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). RESULTS: The Episono group had worse sleep quality, and more excessive daytime sleepiness than PwMS. Obstructive sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome were more frequent in the Episono group. There was no difference in chronotype between the two groups, with morning and intermediate preference. There was no correlation between EDSS and sleep complaints. Fatigue was intensively present among PwMS. CONCLUSIONS: Disease Modifying Drug (DMD)-treated PwMS had a lower frequency of sleep complaints, no difference in chronotype, and a higher prevalence of fatigue than a sample of São Paulo city residents. The immunomodulatory drugs commonly used to treat MS may have contributed to these findings.

ANTECEDENTES: Os distúrbios do sono são prevalentes na população em geral e em pacientes com doenças crônicas, como a esclerose múltipla (EM). OBJETIVOS: No presente estudo, comparamos a prevalência de queixas de distúrbios do sono, fadiga, depressão e cronotipo de pacientes adultos com EM com uma amostra representativa dos moradores da cidade de São Paulo. MéTODOS: Estudo comparativo entre pacientes com EM e voluntários saudáveis do estudo São Paulo Epidemiologic Sleep Study Episono. Comparamos as pontuações dos questionários de sono usando o teste de análise de variância multivariada (MANOVA, na sigla em inglês) para avaliar os efeitos e o teste de análise de variância (ANOVA, na sigla em inglês) como um teste de acompanhamento. As covariáveis usadas foram idade, gênero e atividade física. O teste de correlação de Pearson foi aplicado para medir a correlação entre o Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) e os escores dos questionários de sono. Por fim, aplicamos o Propensity Score Matching para reduzir o viés na estimativa das diferenças entre os dois grupos. RESULTADOS: O grupo Episono apresentou pior qualidade do sono e mais sonolência excessiva diurna do que os pacientes com EM. A apneia obstrutiva do sono e a síndrome das pernas inquietas foram mais frequentes no grupo Episono. Não houve diferença no cronotipo entre os dois grupos, com predomínio matutino e intermediário. Os pacientes com EM apresentaram mais fadiga do que o grupo controle. CONCLUSõES: Pacientes com EM tratados apresentaram menor frequência de queixas de sono, sem diferença no cronotipo, com maior prevalência de fadiga do que uma amostra de moradores da cidade de São Paulo. Os medicamentos imunomoduladores comumente usados para tratar EM podem ter contribuído para estes achados.

Translation and adaptation of the sleep apnea quality of life index (SAQLI) to Brazilian Portuguese.

BACKGROUND: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is characterized by episodes of upper airway obstruction during sleep, with a risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. There is no tool in Brazil to measure the impact of treatment on patients with OSAS. OBJECTIVE: To translate and culturally adapt the Sleep Apnea Quality of Life Index (SAQLI) into Brazilian Portuguese. METHODS: The translation and cultural adaptation were carried out in five steps: translation, synthesis of the translations, back translation, review committee and pretesting. RESULTS: A version of a culturally compatible SAQLI was constructed after lexical changes, along with changes to the sentence structures, visual format, instructions and cards. The essence of the questionnaire and its social, emotional, and disease impact in treatment measures was maintained, with 80% understanding. CONCLUSIONS: The questionnaire was translated and adapted culturally to Brazilian Portuguese, and presented good comprehension in the study population.

Brazilian Academy of Neurology practice guidelines for stroke rehabilitation: part I.

The Guidelines for Stroke Rehabilitation are the result of a joint effort by the Scientific Department of Neurological Rehabilitation of the Brazilian Academy of Neurology aiming to guide professionals involved in the rehabilitation process to reduce functional disability and increase individual autonomy. Members of the group participated in web discussion forums with predefined themes, followed by videoconference meetings in which issues were discussed, leading to a consensus. These guidelines, divided into two parts, focus on the implications of recent clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses in stroke rehabilitation literature. The main objective was to guide physicians, physiotherapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, nurses, nutritionists, and other professionals involved in post-stroke care. Recommendations and levels of evidence were adapted according to the currently available literature. Part I discusses topics on rehabilitation in the acute phase, as well as prevention and management of frequent conditions and comorbidities after stroke.

Sleep disorders in multiple sclerosis: a case-control study using the São Paulo Epidemiologic sleep study (Episono) database / Alterações de sono em esclerose múltipla: um estudo caso-controle utilizando o banco de dados do São Paulo Epidemiologic Sleep Study (Episono)

Abstract Background Sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome are prevalent in the general population and patients with chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). Objectives This study compared the prevalence of sleep disorders complaints, fatigue, depression, and chronotype of adult patients with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) to a representative sample of São Paulo city residents. Methods A comparative study was made between PwMS and volunteers from the São Paulo Epidemiologic Sleep Study (Episono) study. We compared the scores of sleep questionnaires using the multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) test to evaluate the effects and analysis of variance (ANOVA) as a follow-up test. Covariates were age, sex, and physical activity. The Pearson correlation test was performed to measure the correlation between Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and the scores of the sleep questionnaires. Finally, we applied propensity score matching to reduce bias in estimating differences between the two groups. Analyses were performed using Stata 14 (StataCorp, College Station, TX, USA) and IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows version 22.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Results The Episono group had worse sleep quality, and more excessive daytime sleepiness than PwMS. Obstructive sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome were more frequent in the Episono group. There was no difference in chronotype between the two groups, with morning and intermediate preference. There was no correlation between EDSS and sleep complaints. Fatigue was intensively present among PwMS. Conclusions Disease Modifying Drug (DMD)-treated PwMS had a lower frequency of sleep complaints, no difference in chronotype, and a higher prevalence of fatigue than a sample of São Paulo city residents. The immunomodulatory drugs commonly used to treat MS may have contributed to these findings.

Resumo Antecedentes Os distúrbios do sono são prevalentes na população em geral e em pacientes com doenças crônicas, como a esclerose múltipla (EM). Objetivos No presente estudo, comparamos a prevalência de queixas de distúrbios do sono, fadiga, depressão e cronotipo de pacientes adultos com EM com uma amostra representativa dos moradores da cidade de São Paulo. Métodos Estudo comparativo entre pacientes com EM e voluntários saudáveis do estudo São Paulo Epidemiologic Sleep Study Episono. Comparamos as pontuações dos questionários de sono usando o teste de análise de variância multivariada (MANOVA, na sigla em inglês) para avaliar os efeitos e o teste de análise de variância (ANOVA, na sigla em inglês) como um teste de acompanhamento. As covariáveis usadas foram idade, gênero e atividade física. O teste de correlação de Pearson foi aplicado para medir a correlação entre o Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) e os escores dos questionários de sono. Por fim, aplicamos o Propensity Score Matching para reduzir o viés na estimativa das diferenças entre os dois grupos. Resultados O grupo Episono apresentou pior qualidade do sono e mais sonolência excessiva diurna do que os pacientes com EM. A apneia obstrutiva do sono e a síndrome das pernas inquietas foram mais frequentes no grupo Episono. Não houve diferença no cronotipo entre os dois grupos, com predomínio matutino e intermediário. Os pacientes com EM apresentaram mais fadiga do que o grupo controle. Conclusões Pacientes com EM tratados apresentaram menor frequência de queixas de sono, sem diferença no cronotipo, com maior prevalência de fadiga do que uma amostra de moradores da cidade de São Paulo. Os medicamentos imunomoduladores comumente usados para tratar EM podem ter contribuído para estes achados.

Translation and adaptation of the sleep apnea quality of life index (SAQLI) to Brazilian Portuguese / Tradução e adaptação cultural do questionário de qualidade de vida (SAQLI) para o português brasileiro

ABSTRACT Background Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is characterized by episodes of upper airway obstruction during sleep, with a risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. There is no tool in Brazil to measure the impact of treatment on patients with OSAS. Objective To translate and culturally adapt the Sleep Apnea Quality of Life Index (SAQLI) into Brazilian Portuguese. Methods The translation and cultural adaptation were carried out in five steps: translation, synthesis of the translations, back translation, review committee and pretesting. Results A version of a culturally compatible SAQLI was constructed after lexical changes, along with changes to the sentence structures, visual format, instructions and cards. The essence of the questionnaire and its social, emotional, and disease impact in treatment measures was maintained, with 80% understanding. Conclusions The questionnaire was translated and adapted culturally to Brazilian Portuguese, and presented good comprehension in the study population.

RESUMO Antecedentes A síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono (SAOS) é caracterizada por episódios de obstrução da via aérea superior durante o sono, com risco para doenças cardiovasculares e cerebrovasculares. Não há ferramenta no Brasil para medir o impacto do tratamento em pacientes com SAOS. Objetivo Traduzir e adaptar culturalmente o Índice de Qualidade de Vida em Apneia do Sono (SAQLI) para o português brasileiro. Métodos A tradução e adaptação cultural foram realizadas em cinco etapas: tradução, síntese das traduções, retrotradução, comitê de revisão e pré-teste. Resultados Uma versão de SAQLI culturalmente compatível foi construída após mudanças lexicais, bem como mudanças nas estruturas das frases, formato visual, instruções e cartões, mantendo a essência do questionário e seu impacto social, emocional e da doença nas medidas de tratamento, com 80% de compreensão. Conclusões O questionário foi traduzido e adaptado culturalmente para o português brasileiro apresentando bom índice de compreensão na população estudada.

Brazilian Academy of Neurology practice guidelines for stroke rehabilitation: part I / Diretrizes da Academia Brasileira de Neurologia para reabilitação do acidente vascular cerebral: parte I

ABSTRACT The Guidelines for Stroke Rehabilitation are the result of a joint effort by the Scientific Department of Neurological Rehabilitation of the Brazilian Academy of Neurology aiming to guide professionals involved in the rehabilitation process to reduce functional disability and increase individual autonomy. Members of the group participated in web discussion forums with predefined themes, followed by videoconference meetings in which issues were discussed, leading to a consensus. These guidelines, divided into two parts, focus on the implications of recent clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses in stroke rehabilitation literature. The main objective was to guide physicians, physiotherapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, nurses, nutritionists, and other professionals involved in post-stroke care. Recommendations and levels of evidence were adapted according to the currently available literature. Part I discusses topics on rehabilitation in the acute phase, as well as prevention and management of frequent conditions and comorbidities after stroke.

RESUMO As Diretrizes Brasileiras para Reabilitação do AVC são fruto de um esforço conjunto do Departamento Científico de Reabilitação Neurológica da Academia Brasileira de Neurologia com o objetivo de orientar os profissionais envolvidos no processo de reabilitação para a redução da incapacidade funcional e aumento da autonomia dos indivíduos. Membros do grupo acima participaram de fóruns de discussão na web com pré-temas, seguidos de reuniões por videoconferência em que as controvérsias foram discutidas, levando a um consenso. Essas diretrizes, divididas em duas partes, focam as implicações de recentes ensaios clínicos, revisões sistemáticas e metanálises sobre reabilitação do AVC. O objetivo principal é servir de orientação a médicos, fisioterapeutas, fonoaudiólogos, terapeutas ocupacionais, enfermeiros, nutricionistas e demais profissionais envolvidos no cuidado pós-AVC. As recomendações e níveis de evidência foram adaptados de acordo com a literatura disponível atualmente. Aqui é apresentada a Parte I sobre tópicos de reabilitação na fase aguda, prevenção e tratamento de doenças e comorbidades frequentes após o AVC.

A randomized clinical trial on inhaled ciclesonide for managing acute asthma in the emergency room

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Use of inhaled corticosteroids for managing acute asthma exacerbations has been tested since the 1990s. OBJECTIVE: To compare high doses of inhaled ciclesonide with systemic hydrocortisone for managing acute asthma exacerbations in the emergency department. DESIGN AND SETTING: Double-blind, randomized clinical trial in the public healthcare system of the city of São Paulo. METHODS: Fifty-eight patients with moderate or severe asthma with peak flow < 50% of predicted were randomized into two groups. Over the course of four hours, one group received 1440 mcg of inhaled ciclesonide plus hydrocortisone-identical placebo (ciclesonide + placebo), while the other received 500 mg of intravenous hydrocortisone plus ciclesonide-identical placebo (hydrocortisone + placebo). Both groups received short-acting bronchodilators (fenoterol hydrobromide and ipratropium bromide). The research protocol included spirometry, clinical evaluation, vital signs and electrocardiogram monitoring. Data were obtained at 30 (baseline), 60, 90, 120, 180, and 240 minutes. We compared data from baseline to hour 4, between and within groups. RESULTS: Overall, 31 patients received ciclesonide + placebo and 27 received hydrocortisone + placebo. Inhaled ciclesonide was as effective as intravenous hydrocortisone for improving clinical parameters (Borg-scored dyspnea, P = 0.95; sternocleidomastoid muscle use, P = 0.55; wheezing, P = 0.55; respiratory effort, P = 0.95); and spirometric parameters (forced vital capacity, P = 0.50; forced expiratory volume in the first second, P = 0.83; peak expiratory flow, P = 0.51). CONCLUSIONS: Inhaled ciclesonide was not inferior to systemic hydrocortisone for managing acute asthma exacerbations, and it improved both clinical and spirometric parameters. TRIAL REGISTRATION: RBR-6XWC26 - Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos (http://www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-6xwc26/).

A randomized clinical trial on inhaled ciclesonide for managing acute asthma in the emergency room.

BACKGROUND: Use of inhaled corticosteroids for managing acute asthma exacerbations has been tested since the 1990s. OBJECTIVE: To compare high doses of inhaled ciclesonide with systemic hydrocortisone for managing acute asthma exacerbations in the emergency department. DESIGN AND SETTING: Double-blind, randomized clinical trial in the public healthcare system of the city of São Paulo. METHODS: Fifty-eight patients with moderate or severe asthma with peak flow < 50% of predicted were randomized into two groups. Over the course of four hours, one group received 1440 mcg of inhaled ciclesonide plus hydrocortisone-identical placebo (ciclesonide + placebo), while the other received 500 mg of intravenous hydrocortisone plus ciclesonide-identical placebo (hydrocortisone + placebo). Both groups received short-acting bronchodilators (fenoterol hydrobromide and ipratropium bromide). The research protocol included spirometry, clinical evaluation, vital signs and electrocardiogram monitoring. Data were obtained at 30 (baseline), 60, 90, 120, 180, and 240 minutes. We compared data from baseline to hour 4, between and within groups. RESULTS: Overall, 31 patients received ciclesonide + placebo and 27 received hydrocortisone + placebo. Inhaled ciclesonide was as effective as intravenous hydrocortisone for improving clinical parameters (Borg-scored dyspnea, P = 0.95; sternocleidomastoid muscle use, P = 0.55; wheezing, P = 0.55; respiratory effort, P = 0.95); and spirometric parameters (forced vital capacity, P = 0.50; forced expiratory volume in the first second, P = 0.83; peak expiratory flow, P = 0.51). CONCLUSIONS: Inhaled ciclesonide was not inferior to systemic hydrocortisone for managing acute asthma exacerbations, and it improved both clinical and spirometric parameters. TRIAL REGISTRATION: RBR-6XWC26 - Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos (http://www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-6xwc26/).

Neurologists' knowledge of and attitudes toward physical exercise for people with epilepsy in Latin America.

INTRODUCTION: Despite the favorable effects of exercise in people with epilepsy (PWE), the lower participation in physical/sports activities may be partly due to inadequate knowledge and attitudes of health professional about their benefits. In this regard, in 2016, the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) through its Task Force on Sports and Epilepsy published a consensus paper that provided general guidance concerning participation in exercise/sport activities for PWE. We investigated views and attitudes toward physical exercise practice among neurologists in Latin America. METHODS: A 22-item cross-sectional online questionnaire-based study among neurologists included the following: (1) profile of participating neurologists, (2) doctors' attitudes and perceptions about physical/sport activities for PWE, and (3) neurologist experience concerning patient's report about their involvement in physical/sport activities. RESULTS: In total, 215 of 519 neurologists from 16 different countries returned the questionnaire. Although about one-third of neurologists had no information about the effect of exercise on epilepsy, and 60% of them did not know the published recommendations of the ILAE Task Force on Sports and Epilepsy, the majority (92.5%) advised the practice of exercise, were aware of sport activities for their patients and agreed that exercise can reduce comorbidities associated with epilepsy (X2 = 249.34; p < 0.001). Most of the neurologists did not believe that exercise is a seizure-inducing factor, but more than half would restrict their patients with uncontrolled seizures for exercise practice (X2 = 250.77; p < 0.001). Most barriers considered by PWE in the past, currently are not viewed by neurologists and their patients (X2 = 249.34; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: While this study reveals that neurologists have some knowledge gaps in attitudes toward physical exercise for PWE, encouraging attitudes were observed by neurologists. Considering that physicians can impact on patient confidence and decision, a better communication between neurologists and their patients concerning the benefits of exercise can increase PWE participation in physical/sports activities. To improve this scenario, more efforts should be made to increase the neurologists' knowledge and perceptions on this issue.

Home sleep apnea testing: an accuracy study.

AIM: There are no studies comparing tests performed at home with those carried out in the laboratory, using the same device. The only studies that have been performed have compared the device used at home with the standard polygraph used in the laboratory. The purpose of this study was therefore to verify the accuracy of the home diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) via unassisted type 2 portable polysomnography, compared with polysomnography using the same equipment in a sleep laboratory. METHODS: To avoid any possible order effect on the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), we randomly created two groups of 20-total 40 patients, according to the test sequence. One of the groups had the first test at home and the second test in the laboratory (H-L); the other group had the first test in the laboratory and the second at home (L-H). The second test always took place on the night immediately following the first test. All polysomnographic monitoring was undertaken with the same equipment, an Embletta X100 system (Embla, Natus Inc., Middleton, USA). The Embletta X100 is a portable polygraph that records eleven polygraph signs: (1) electroencephalogram C4/A; (2) electroencephalogram O2/M1; (3) submental EMG; (4) electrooculogram of the right side; (5) nasal cannula (air flow); (6) respiratory effort against a plethysmographic chest strap; (7) respiratory effort against an abdominal plethysmographic belt; (8) heart rate; (9) saturation of oxyhemoglobin; (10) snoring; and (11) body position. RESULTS: There was no difference in sleep efficiency between the group monitored in the laboratory and the group tested at home (p = 0.30). There was no difference in total sleep time (p = 0.11) or sleep latency (p = 0.52), or in the latency in phases N2 and N3 between the monitoring in the laboratory and at home (N2 p = 0.24; N3 p = 0.09). Some differences occurred regarding the PSG that took place at home, with longer duration of wake after sleep onset (WASO) and longer latency for REM sleep, due to failure of the patient to start the monitoring by pressing the "events" button on the device. In the distribution of sleep phases, there was no difference between the group monitored in the laboratory and the group tested at home. CONCLUSION: Results from home sleep monitoring correlate well with the laboratory "gold standard" and may be an option for diagnosing OSAS in selected patients.

Factor analysis of the performance at the medical residency exam, progress test and clerkship rotations performance coefficient / Análise fatorial do desempenho no exame de residência médica, teste de progresso e coeficiente de desempenho nos estágios do internato

Abstract: Introduction: The relationships between the students' performance on medical residency exams and progress tests and medical clerkship rotations are not well established. Objective: The objective of this study was to measure the correlations between grades on progress tests and clerkship rotations assessments and the medical residency exam and determine which performance had the strongest correlation with the final medical residency exam. Methods: This was a retrospective and longitudinal study with correlation analyses of grades on progress tests from the 1st to 6th year of medical school, the clerkship rotations performance coefficient (5th and 6th years of school) and the final medical residency exam in a cohort of students enrolled in a federal public medical school using factor analysis. Students who performed the progress tests from the 1st to 6th year were included. Results: Of 123 students enrolled in the first year of medical school in 2009, 114 (92.7%) performed the progress tests during the six years and were included. The average grades on the progress tests from 1 to 10 were 2.67 (1st year), 3.01 (2nd year), 4.19 (3rd year), 4.01 (4th year), 5.19 (5th year), and 6.38 (6th year). The average grades in the clerkship rotations were 8.32 (5th year) and 8.26 (6th year). The average score on the theoretical medical residency exam was 7.53 and the final result of the medical residency exam was 8.05. Factor analysis detected three domains with greater correlation strength that accounted for 76.3% of the model variance. Component 1 was identified as the coefficient of academic performance (CAP) 5th, CAP 6th and final medical residency exam grades, whereas component 2 was constituted by the grades of the 5th and 6th years progress tests and the third component comprised the progress tests of the 2nd, 3rd and 4th years. Conclusions: Grades on the progress tests, the clerkship rotations assessments and the final medical residency exam were correlated. Moreover, the performance during the medical clerkship rotations showed the strongest correlations with medical residency exam grades.

Resumo: Introdução: As relações entre o desempenho dos alunos nos exames de residência médica e testes de progresso e os estágios no internato médico não estão bem estabelecidas. Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivos medir as correlações entre as notas nos testes de progresso e as notas no internato e o resultado final do exame de residência médica, e determinar qual desempenho teve a maior correlação com o exame final da residência médica. Método: Trata-se de um estudo retrospectivo e longitudinal com análises de correlação de notas em provas de progresso do primeiro ao sexto ano do curso de Medicina, coeficiente de desempenho de estágios do internato (quinto e sexto anos) e notas do exame final de residência médica em uma coorte de alunos matriculados em uma Faculdade de Medicina de uma instituição pública federal, usando análise fatorial. Foram incluídos os alunos que realizaram os testes de progresso do primeiro ao sexto ano. Resultado: Dos 123 alunos matriculados no primeiro ano do curso de Medicina em 2009, 114 (92,7%) realizaram os testes de progresso durante os seis anos letivos e foram incluídos. As notas médias nos testes de progresso de 1 a 10 foram 2,67 (primeiro ano), 3,01 (segundo ano), 4,19 (terceiro ano), 4,01 (quarto ano), 5,19 (quinto ano) e 6,38 (sexto ano). As notas médias nos estágios foram 8,32 (quinto ano) e 8,26 (sexto ano). A nota média no exame teórico da residência médica foi 7,53; e a média no exame final da residência, 8,5. A análise fatorial detectou três domínios com maior força de correlação que responderam por 76,3% da variância do modelo. O componente 1 foi identificado como coeficiente de rendimento acadêmico (CAP) 5º, CAP 6º e o resultado final do exame de residência médica, o componente 2 foi formado pelas notas das provas de progresso do quinto e sextos anos, e o terceiro componente compreendeu as notas do progresso do segundo, terceiro e quarto anos. Conclusão: As notas das provas de progresso, as avaliações do internato e o exame final de residência médica apresentaram correlações significantes. Além disso, o desempenho durante o internato apresentou maior correlação com as notas do exame final de residência médica.

Sleep state misperception: is there a CNS structural source?

INTRODUCTION: We describe a case of sleep state misperception in a patient with a neurotoxoplasmosis lesion in the left nucleocapsular region. CASE REPORT: A 40-year-old female patient presented relating sleeplessness over the past 2 years, concurrent with progressive headaches, dizziness and motor and sensory deficits in the right upper and lower limbs. She had a history of AIDS, on irregular antiretroviral therapy and neurotoxoplasmosis. A polysomnography confirmed the hypothesis of sleep state misperception, and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a residual lesion in the left nucleocapsular region. CONCLUSION: Different models consider that the sleep state misperception could be correlated to structural abnormalities of the central nervous system. A recent study showed that the medial prefrontal cortex had a lower activation in patients with unrefreshing sleep due to chronic fatigue syndrome. This case report highlights the possibility of sleep state misperception having - at least partially - an anatomical substrate in the left nucleocapsular region.

Telemedicine use among neurologists before and during COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND: After the public health emergency due to COVID-19 was declared in Brazil, the federal government temporarily regulated and authorized the use of telemedicine services for patient consultation, monitoring, and diagnosis. For more than a decade, neurologists have recognized the benefits of telemedicine in the acute management of stroke patients. However, as the use of telemedicine was restricted until the COVID-19 pandemic, the view of Brazilian neurologists about telemedicine is unknown. METHODS: All neurologists registered at the Brazilian Academy of Neurology were invited by e-mail to participate in a survey about personal perceptions on telemedicine use. RESULTS: One hundred sixty-two neurologists from all regions of Brazil answered the online questionnaire. The survey showed that 18.5% of participants worked with telemedicine before the pandemic, while 63.6% reported working with telemedicine during the pandemic. The main telemedicine modalities used during the pandemic were teleorientation and teleconsultation. DISCUSSION: According to our data, the COVID-19 pandemic deeply influenced the behavior of Brazilian neurologists, who developed a more favorable view about telemedicine and actively searched for information about telemedicine. As there is a need for more training in this area in Brazil, universities and medical societies must strive to improve telemedicine education. Expanding the use of high-quality teleneurology can contribute to a better care for patients with neurological diseases in Brazil.

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the sleep quality of medical professionals in Brazil.

INTRODUCTION: Coronavirus pandemic began in China in 2019 (COVID-19), causing not only public health problems but also great psychological distress, especially for physicians involved in coping with the virus or those of the risk group in social isolation, and this represents a challenge for the psychological resilience in the world population. Studies showed that health professionals had psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, stress, among others. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the quality of sleep and the prevalence rate of sleeping disorders among physicians during COVID-19 pandemic, and identify the psychological and social factors associated with the condition. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of an online questionnaire was applied for physicians in Brazil. Among the 332 participants included, 227 were women. Sociodemographic assessment was used in the questionnaire, as well as the scale of impact on the events of modifications caused by COVID-19, assessment on sleep quality (PSQI), presence and severity of insomnia (ISI), depressive symptoms (PHQ-9), and anxiety (GAD-7). RESULTS: Most physicians (65.6%) had changes in sleep. Poor sleep quality was reported by 73.1%, depressive symptoms were present in 75.8%, and anxiety in 73.4%. CONCLUSION: Our study found that more than 70% of the physicians assessed had impaired sleep quality, characterizing insomnia symptoms during COVID-19 outbreak. Related factors included an environment of isolation, concerns about COVID-19 outbreak and symptoms of anxiety and depression. Special interventions are needed to promote health professionals' mental well-being and implement changes in this scenario.