Discriminative value of pulse wave velocity for arterial stiffness and cardiac injury in prediabetic patients / Valor discriminativo da velocidade da onda de pulso para rigidez arterial e lesão cardíaca em pacientes pré-diabéticos

Abstract Background Prediabetes (PD) is defined as impaired fasting glucose and/or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and may be associated with high risk of cardiovascular injury. It is recommended that PD patients be screened for signs of arterial stiffness and cardiovascular injury to reinforce therapeutic strategies. Objectives To identify pulse wave velocity values discriminative for arterial stiffness and cardiovascular injury in PD patients. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with PD (N=43) and normoglycemic (N=37) patients who underwent clinical evaluation, arterial stiffness assessment by carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) using SphygmoCor, laboratory blood analysis, investigation of morphological and functional cardiac variables by transthoracic echocardiogram, and assessment of carotid intima-media-thickness (CIMT) by carotid ultrasonography. A statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software and values of p<0.05 were considered significant. Results A cfPWV cut-off value of 6.9 m/s was identified for IGT (Sensitivity [SE]: 74% and Specificity [SP]: 51%). Comparison of general data and risk factors between subsets with values above and below this cutoff value revealed higher rates of fasting glucose (p=0.02), obesity (p=0.03), dyslipidemia (p=0.004), early signs of left ventricle (p=0.017) and right ventricle (p=0.03) impaired diastolic function, and elevated CIMT in subjects with cfPWV ≥ 6.9m/s (p=0.04). Conclusions In PD patients, a cfPWV cutoff of 6.9 m/s was considered a discriminative value for arterial stiffness. These findings highlight the value of early investigation of cardiovascular injury and aggressive therapy strategies with good control of risk factors in PD.

Resumo Contexto O pré-diabetes (PD) é definido como glicemia de jejum alterada e/ou tolerância à glicose alterada (TGA) e pode estar associado a alto risco de lesão cardiovascular. Recomenda-se discriminar quais pacientes com PD podem apresentar sinais de rigidez arterial e lesão cardiovascular para reforçar as estratégias terapêuticas. Objetivos Identificar os valores discriminativos da velocidade de onda de pulso determinantes de rigidez arterial e lesão cardiovascular em pacientes com PD. Métodos Estudo transversal em pacientes com PD (N=43) e normoglicêmicos (N=37) submetidos a avaliação clínica, avaliação da rigidez arterial pela velocidade da onda de pulso carótido-femoral (cfPWV) utilizando SphygmoCor, análise laboratorial de sangue, investigação de alterações morfológicas e variáveis cardíacas funcionais por ecocardiograma transtorácico e avaliação da espessura íntima-média carotídea (EIMC) pela ultrassonografia da carótida. A análise estatística foi realizada no software SPSS, e valores de p<0,05 foram considerados significativos. Resultados Foi identificado um valor de corte cfPWV de 6,9 m/s para TGA (sensibilidade 74% e especificidade 51%). A comparação dos dados e fatores de risco entre valores acima e abaixo do valor de corte estabelecido revelou glicemia de jejum elevada (p=0,02), obesidade (p=0,03), dislipidemia (p=0,004), sinais precoces de função diastólica prejudicada do ventrículo esquerdo (p=0,017) e ventrículo direito (p=0,03) e maior EIMC em cfPWV ≥6,9m/s (p=0,04). Conclusões Em pacientes com PD, o cfPWV de 6,9 m/s foi considerado um valor discriminativo de rigidez arterial. Esses achados reforçam que a investigação precoce da lesão cardiovascular e uma estratégia com terapia agressiva são valiosas no controle dos fatores de risco na PD.

Discriminative value of pulse wave velocity for arterial stiffness and cardiac injury in prediabetic patients.

Background: Prediabetes (PD) is defined as impaired fasting glucose and/or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and may be associated with high risk of cardiovascular injury. It is recommended that PD patients be screened for signs of arterial stiffness and cardiovascular injury to reinforce therapeutic strategies. Objectives: To identify pulse wave velocity values discriminative for arterial stiffness and cardiovascular injury in PD patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with PD (N=43) and normoglycemic (N=37) patients who underwent clinical evaluation, arterial stiffness assessment by carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) using SphygmoCor, laboratory blood analysis, investigation of morphological and functional cardiac variables by transthoracic echocardiogram, and assessment of carotid intima-media-thickness (CIMT) by carotid ultrasonography. A statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software and values of p<0.05 were considered significant. Results: A cfPWV cut-off value of 6.9 m/s was identified for IGT (Sensitivity [SE]: 74% and Specificity [SP]: 51%). Comparison of general data and risk factors between subsets with values above and below this cutoff value revealed higher rates of fasting glucose (p=0.02), obesity (p=0.03), dyslipidemia (p=0.004), early signs of left ventricle (p=0.017) and right ventricle (p=0.03) impaired diastolic function, and elevated CIMT in subjects with cfPWV ≥ 6.9m/s (p=0.04). Conclusions: In PD patients, a cfPWV cutoff of 6.9 m/s was considered a discriminative value for arterial stiffness. These findings highlight the value of early investigation of cardiovascular injury and aggressive therapy strategies with good control of risk factors in PD.

Contexto: O pré-diabetes (PD) é definido como glicemia de jejum alterada e/ou tolerância à glicose alterada (TGA) e pode estar associado a alto risco de lesão cardiovascular. Recomenda-se discriminar quais pacientes com PD podem apresentar sinais de rigidez arterial e lesão cardiovascular para reforçar as estratégias terapêuticas. Objetivos: Identificar os valores discriminativos da velocidade de onda de pulso determinantes de rigidez arterial e lesão cardiovascular em pacientes com PD. Métodos: Estudo transversal em pacientes com PD (N=43) e normoglicêmicos (N=37) submetidos a avaliação clínica, avaliação da rigidez arterial pela velocidade da onda de pulso carótido-femoral (cfPWV) utilizando SphygmoCor, análise laboratorial de sangue, investigação de alterações morfológicas e variáveis cardíacas funcionais por ecocardiograma transtorácico e avaliação da espessura íntima-média carotídea (EIMC) pela ultrassonografia da carótida. A análise estatística foi realizada no software SPSS, e valores de p<0,05 foram considerados significativos. Resultados: Foi identificado um valor de corte cfPWV de 6,9 m/s para TGA (sensibilidade 74% e especificidade 51%). A comparação dos dados e fatores de risco entre valores acima e abaixo do valor de corte estabelecido revelou glicemia de jejum elevada (p=0,02), obesidade (p=0,03), dislipidemia (p=0,004), sinais precoces de função diastólica prejudicada do ventrículo esquerdo (p=0,017) e ventrículo direito (p=0,03) e maior EIMC em cfPWV ≥6,9m/s (p=0,04). Conclusões: Em pacientes com PD, o cfPWV de 6,9 m/s foi considerado um valor discriminativo de rigidez arterial. Esses achados reforçam que a investigação precoce da lesão cardiovascular e uma estratégia com terapia agressiva são valiosas no controle dos fatores de risco na PD.

Comparing cardiac function and structure and their relationship with exercise capacity between patients with stable COPD and recent acute exacerbation: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: Patients with COPD are prone to cardiac remodeling; however, little is known about cardiac function in patients recovering from an acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD) and its association with exercise capacity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cardiac function and structure and to compare their relationship with exercise capacity in patients with a recent AECOPD and patients with clinically stable COPD. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study including 40 COPD patients equally divided into two groups: recent AECOPD group (AEG) and clinically stable COPD group (STG). Echocardiography was performed to assess cardiac function and chamber structure. The six-minute walk distance (6MWD) and the Duke Activity Status Index (estimated Vo2) were used in order to assess exercise capacity. RESULTS: No significant differences in cardiac function and structure were found between the groups. The 6MWD was associated with early/late diastolic mitral filling velocity ratio (r = 0.50; p < 0.01), left ventricular posterior wall thickness (r = -0.33; p = 0.03), and right atrium volume index (r = -0.34; p = 0.04), whereas Vo2 was associated with right atrium volume index (r = -0.40; p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: Regardless of the clinical condition (recent AECOPD vs. stable COPD), the cardiac function and structure were similar between the groups, and exercise capacity (determined by the 6MWD and Vo2) was associated with cardiac features.

Role of arterial stiffness and endothelial dysfunction on lower limb performance in older adults with type 2 diabetes: A cross-sectional study.

AIM: To verify whether arterial stiffness and endothelial dysfunction influence lower limb muscle strength and gait speed in older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). METHODS: Cross-sectional study including seventy-eight older adults with T2DM (aged 67 ± 6 years and 42 % male). Arterial stiffness was assessed using pulse wave velocity (PWV), while endothelial function was measured by flow-mediated dilation (FMD). Lower limb muscle strength and gait speed were assessed using the 30-second chair stand test (30s-CST) and 10-Meter Walk Test, respectively. RESULTS: Both PWV (m/s) and FMD (%) were univariately associated with number of repetitions in 30s-CST and gait speed (P < 0.05). After control for age, sex and body mass index, PWV remained associated with repetitions in 30s-CST (95 % CI: -0.494 to -0.054; P = 0.015) and gait speed (95 % CI: -0.039 to -0.002; P = 0.031). After adjustments for control variables, T2DM duration and glycemic control, FMD was associated with repetitions in 30s-CST (95 % CI: 0.008 to 0.324; P = 0.039) and gait speed (95 % CI: 0.011 to 0.038; P = 0.001). CONCLUSION: In older adults with T2DM, both arterial stiffness and endothelial dysfunction are associated with decreased leg muscle strength and slower gait speed.

Cardiovascular, Respiratory, and Functional Effects of Home-Based Exercise Training after COVID-19 Hospitalization.

INTRODUCTION: The present randomized, single-center, and single-blinded clinical trial tested the hypothesis that tele-supervised home-based exercise training (exercise) is an effective strategy for improving cardiovascular, respiratory, and functional capacity parameters in individuals who were hospitalized due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). METHODS: Thirty-two individuals (52 ± 10 yr; 17 were female) randomly assigned to exercise ( n = 12) or control groups ( n = 20) had their anthropometric (weight, body mass index), hemodynamic (brachial and central blood pressure), vascular (arterial stiffness), ventilatory (pulmonary function and respiratory muscle strength), and functional parameters (handgrip strength, five-time sit to stand, timed up and go test, and 6-min walking test) assessed at baseline (30-45 d of hospital discharged) and after 12 wk of follow-up. RESULTS: Both groups similarly increased ( P < 0.001) forced vital capacity (absolute and percent of predicted), forced expiratory volume in the first second (absolute and percent of predicted), and handgrip strength during follow-up. However, only the exercise group reduced carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (-2.0 ± 0.6 m·s -1 , P = 0.048) and increased ( P < 0.05) resting oxygen saturation (1.9% ± 0.6%), mean inspiratory pressure (24.7 ± 7.1 cm H 2 O), mean expiratory pressure (20.3 ± 5.8 cm H 2 O), and percent of predicted mean expiratory pressure (14% ± 22%) during follow-up. No significant changes were found in any other variable during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Present findings suggest that tele-supervised home-based exercise training can be a potential adjunct therapeutic to rehabilitate individuals who were hospitalized due to COVID-19.

Can Previous Levels of Physical Activity Affect Risk Factors for Cardiorespiratory Diseases and Functional Capacity after COVID-19 Hospitalization? A Prospective Cohort Study.

Purpose: To evaluate the influence of previous levels of physical activity on hemodynamic, vascular, ventilatory, and functional outcomes after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) hospitalization. Methods: Sixty-three individuals with COVID-19 had their clinical status and previous levels (12 month) of physical activity (Baecke Questionnaire of Habitual Physical Activity) assessed at hospital admission. Individuals were then allocated to lower levels of physical activity (ACTLOWER; N = 22), intermediate levels of physical activity (ACTINTERMEDIATE; N = 22), or higher levels of physical activity (ACTHIGHER; N = 19) groups, according to tertiles of physical activity. Resting hemodynamic (heart rate and brachial/central blood pressures) and vascular (carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity, augmentation index, and brachial artery flow-mediated dilation) variables, pulmonary function (spirometry), respiratory muscle strength (maximal respiratory pressures), and functional capacity (handgrip strength, five-time sit-to-stand, timed-up and go, and six-minute walking tests) were measured at 30 to 45 days after hospital discharge. Results: ACTLOWER showed lower levels (P < 0.05) of forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in the first second, maximal voluntary ventilation, and maximal expiratory pressure than ACTHIGHER. ACTLOWER also had lower (P = 0.023) walking distance (~21%,) and lower percentage of predicted walking distance (~20%) at six-minute walking test during follow-up than ACTINTERMEDIATE. However, hemodynamic and vascular variables, handgrip strength, five-time sit-to-stand, and timed-up and go were not different among groups. Conclusion: ACTLOWER showed impaired ventilatory parameters and walking performance when compared with ACTHIGHER and ACTINTERMEDIATE, respectively. These results suggest that previous levels of physical activity may impact ventilatory and exercise capacity outcomes 30 to 45 days after COVID-19 hospitalization discharge.

Determinants of endothelial dysfunction in noncritically ill hospitalized COVID-19 patients: A cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to identify determinants of endothelial dysfunction in patients hospitalized with acute COVID-19. METHODS: A total of 109 hospitalized COVID-19 patients in noncritical status were cross-sectionally studied. Clinical data (age, sex, comorbidities, and medications) and BMI were assessed. Laboratory tests included serum hemoglobin, leukocytes, lymphocytes, platelets, C-reactive protein, ferritin, D-dimer, and creatinine. Physical status was evaluated using a handgrip dynamometer. Endothelial function was assessed noninvasively using the flow-mediated dilation (FMD) method. RESULTS: The sample average age was 51 years, 51% of patients were male, and the most frequent comorbidity was obesity (62%). Univariate analysis showed association of lower FMD with higher BMI, hypertension, use of oral antihypertensive, higher blood levels of creatinine, and larger baseline artery diameter. After adjusting for confounders, the multivariate analysis showed BMI (95% CI: -0.26 to -0.11; p < 0.001) as the major factor associated with FMD. Other factors associated with FMD were baseline artery diameter (95% CI: -1.77 to -0.29; p = 0.007) and blood levels of creatinine (95% CI: -1.99 to -0.16; p = 0.022). CONCLUSIONS: Increased BMI was the major factor associated with endothelial dysfunction in noncritically hospitalized COVID-19 patients. This may explain one of the pathways in which obesity may increase the risk for severe COVID-19.

Comparing cardiac function and structure and their relationship with exercise capacity between patients with stable COPD and recent acute exacerbation: a cross-sectional study / Comparação da função e estrutura cardíaca e sua relação com a capacidade de exercício entre pacientes com DPOC estável e exacerbação aguda recente: estudo transversal

ABSTRACT Objective: Patients with COPD are prone to cardiac remodeling; however, little is known about cardiac function in patients recovering from an acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD) and its association with exercise capacity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cardiac function and structure and to compare their relationship with exercise capacity in patients with a recent AECOPD and patients with clinically stable COPD. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study including 40 COPD patients equally divided into two groups: recent AECOPD group (AEG) and clinically stable COPD group (STG). Echocardiography was performed to assess cardiac function and chamber structure. The six-minute walk distance (6MWD) and the Duke Activity Status Index (estimated Vo2) were used in order to assess exercise capacity. Results: No significant differences in cardiac function and structure were found between the groups. The 6MWD was associated with early/late diastolic mitral filling velocity ratio (r = 0.50; p < 0.01), left ventricular posterior wall thickness (r = −0.33; p = 0.03), and right atrium volume index (r = −0.34; p = 0.04), whereas Vo2 was associated with right atrium volume index (r = −0.40; p = 0.02). Conclusions: Regardless of the clinical condition (recent AECOPD vs. stable COPD), the cardiac function and structure were similar between the groups, and exercise capacity (determined by the 6MWD and Vo2) was associated with cardiac features.

RESUMO Objetivo: Pacientes com DPOC são propensos a remodelamento cardíaco; no entanto, pouco se sabe sobre a função cardíaca em pacientes em recuperação de exacerbação aguda da DPOC (EADPOC) e sua associação com a capacidade de exercício. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a função e estrutura cardíaca e comparar sua relação com a capacidade de exercício em pacientes com EADPOC recente e pacientes com DPOC clinicamente estável. Métodos: Estudo transversal com 40 pacientes com DPOC divididos igualmente em dois grupos: grupo EADPOC recente (GEA) e grupo DPOC clinicamente estável (GCE). Realizou-se ecocardiografia para avaliar a função cardíaca e a estrutura das câmaras. A distância percorrida no teste de caminhada de seis minutos (DTC6) e o Duke Activity Status Index (Vo2 estimado) foram utilizados para avaliar a capacidade de exercício. Resultados: Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas na função e estrutura cardíaca entre os grupos. A DTC6 apresentou associação com a razão entre as velocidades de enchimento diastólico mitral precoce e tardia (r = 0,50; p < 0,01), a espessura da parede posterior do ventrículo esquerdo (r = −0,33; p = 0,03) e o índice de volume do átrio direito (r = −0,34; p = 0,04), enquanto o Vo2 apresentou associação com o índice de volume do átrio direito (r = −0,40; p = 0,02). Conclusões: Independentemente da condição clínica (EADPOC recente vs. DPOC estável), a função e estrutura cardíaca eram semelhantes entre os grupos, e a capacidade de exercício (determinada pela DTC6 e pelo Vo2) apresentou associação com as características cardíacas.

Brain-heart autonomic axis across different clinical status and severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

PURPOSE: Impairment of cardiac autonomic integrity is common in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. The influence of the interaction between clinical and severity status on brain-heart autonomic axis (BHAA) is not well known. We aimed to investigate the BHAA function across different clinical status and severity of COPD. METHODS: Cross-sectional study involving 77 COPD patients allocated into four groups according to clinical status [acute exacerbation (GAE) or stable (GST)] and severity [less (-) or more (+)]: 1) GAE-, n = 13; 2) GAE+, n = 20; 3) GST-, n = 23; and 4) GST+, n = 21. Heart rate variability (HRV) at rest and heart rate recovery (HRR) after 6-min walk test were markers of BHAA. Mean R-R, STDRR, RMSSD, RRtri, HF, LF, SD1, SD2, ApEn and SampEn were the HRV indexes and, HRR was obtained as: HR at 1st min of recovery minus peak HR. RESULTS: A main effect of clinical status (p < 0.001) was found to vagal modulation in GAE-vs. GST- (RMSSD: 25.0 ± 14.8 vs. 12.6 ± 5.5 ms; SD1: 18.0 ± 10.6 vs. 8.9 ± 3.9 ms) and to GAE + vs. GST+ (RMSSD: 26.4 ± 15.2 vs. 15.4 ± 6.3 ms; SD1: 18.3 ± 11.2 vs. 10.9 ± 4.5 ms). An effect of clinical status (p = 0.032) and severity (p = 0.030) were found to HF (vagal) in GAE + compared to GAE- and GST+ (264.7 ± 239.0 vs. 134.7 ± 169.7 and 135.8 ± 139.7 ms2). Lower HRR was found in GAE-compared to GST- (8.0 ± 2.4 vs. 19.6 ± 2.4 bpm), p = 0.002. CONCLUSION: In COPD patients, clinical status (AECOPD or stable) was more dominant than the severity on BHAA function. A more pronounced parasympathetic modulation was found in AECOPD patients with a lower HRR to exercise.

Noninvasive ventilation acutely improves endothelial function in exacerbated COPD patients.

PURPOSE: Acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) is associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular events, which can be linked to endothelial dysfunction. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether noninvasive ventilation (NIV) acutely changes endothelial function in hospitalized AECOPD patients. METHODS: Twenty-one AECOPD patients were assessed in a hospital ward setting from 24 to 48 h after admission. NIV was applied using a ventilator with bilevel pressure support. Before and after NIV protocol, patients were evaluated regarding (1) endothelium-dependent function, assessed non-invasively using the flow-mediated dilation (FMD) method; (2) arterial blood gas analysis. Other baseline evaluations included clinical and anthropometric data, and laboratory tests. RESULTS: The total group showed a significant improvement in FMD as a result of NIV effect (P = 0.010). While arterial carbon dioxide and oxygen were not altered, oxygen saturation increased after NIV (P = 0.045). The subgroup comparison of responders (FMD ≥ 1%) and non-responders (FMD < 1%) showed significant baseline differences in body mass index (BMI) (P = 0.019) and predicted forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) (P = 0.007). In univariate and multivariate analyses, both BMI and FEV1 were determinant for endothelial response to NIV. CONCLUSION: NIV acutely improves endothelial function in hospitalized AECOPD patients. Overweight and COPD severity may represent important characteristics for the magnitude of peripheral vascular response.

Association of exercise capacity and endothelial function in patients with severe exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Severe acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) are associated with significant poor outcomes including an increased risk of cardiovascular (CV) events and exercise intolerance. Endothelial dysfunction might contribute to an impaired vascular homeostasis and consequently to CV events and exercise capacity. This study aimed to evaluate the association between exercise capacity and endothelial function in patients with severe AECOPD. Forty-five COPD patients diagnosed with severe AECOPD and admitted to the University Hospital of São Carlos from 2017 to 2019 were enrolled in this observational clinical study. Endothelial Function was assessed by brachial artery ultrasonography (M-Turbo, Sonosite, Bottle, WA, USA) and Flow Mediated Dilatation (FMD) technique in absolute (mm) and percentage values (%). Walking distance (6MWD) obtained by six-minute walk test was considered to characterize the exercise capacity. Pearson's correlation analysis and linear regression model were applied and a significance level of 5%. There was a significant positive correlation between exercise capacity and endothelial function. Pearson correlation coefficient were 0.36 (p = 0.02) and 0.40 (p = 0.01) between 6MWD and FMD in mm and %, respectively. Linear regression model revealed 6MWD (p = 0.007), accounting for 15% of FMD (%) variance (R2 adjusted). FMD (%) = 2.11 + (0.0081*6MWD). Exercise capacity is associated with endothelial function in patients with severe AECOPD. FMD was found to be increasing with increasing walked distance. Further research is needed to provide evidence of effectiveness of rehabilitation on exercise capacity and endothelial function in these patients and its prognostic value.

Effects of acute fluoride exposure on the jejunum and ileum of rats: Insights from proteomic and enteric innervation analysis.

Fluoride (F) is largely employed in dentistry, in therapeutic doses, to control caries. However, excessive intake may lead to adverse effects in the body. Since F is absorbed mostly from the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), gastrointestinal symptoms are the first signs following acute F exposure. Nevertheless, little is known about the mechanistic events that lead to these symptoms. Therefore, the present study evaluated changes in the proteomic profile as well as morphological changes in the jejunum and ileum of rats upon acute exposure to F. Male rats received, by gastric gavage, a single dose of F containing 0 (control) or 25 mg/Kg for 30 days. Upon exposure to F, there was a decrease in the thickness of the tunic muscularis for both segments and a decrease in the thickness of the wall only for the ileum. In addition, a decrease in the density of HuC/D-IR neurons and nNOS-IR neurons was found for the jejunum, but for the ileum only nNOS-IR neurons were decreased upon F exposure. Moreover, SP-IR varicosities were increased in both segments, while VIP-IR varicosities were increased in the jejunum and decreased in the ileum. As for the proteomic analysis, the proteins with altered expression were mostly negatively regulated and associated mainly with protein synthesis and energy metabolism. Proteomics also revealed alterations in proteins involved in oxidative/antioxidant defense, apoptosis and as well as in cytoskeletal proteins. Our results, when analyzed together, suggest that the gastrointestinal symptoms found in cases of acute F exposure might be related to the morphological alterations in the gut (decrease in the thickness of the tunica muscularis) that, at the molecular level, can be explained by alterations in the gut vipergic innervation and in proteins that regulate the cytoskeleton.

Left Ventricular Geometry in COPD Patients: ARE THERE ASSOCIATIONS WITH AIRFLOW LIMITATION, FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY, AND GRIP STRENGTH?

PURPOSE: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and abnormalities of left ventricular (LV) geometry often coexist. This study aimed to verify whether LV geometry is associated with airflow obstruction, functional capacity, and grip strength in COPD patients. METHODS: Thirty-seven COPD patients (GOLD II, III, and IV) were allocated to three groups according to LV geometry as assessed by transthoracic echocardiography: normal (n = 13), concentric LV remodeling (n = 8), and concentric LV hypertrophy (LVH) (n = 16). Lung function was assessed using spirometry. The Duke Activity Status Index (DASI) was used to estimate functional capacity, and grip strength measurement was performed using a hydraulic hand dynamometer. RESULTS: The concentric LVH group presented lower DASI scores (P = .045) and grip strength (P = .006) when compared with the normal group. Correlations analysis showed the following: relative wall thickness negatively correlated with forced expiratory volume in the first second (r = -0.380; P = .025) and DASI score (r = -0.387, P = .018); LV mass index negatively correlated with grip strength (r = -0.363, P = .038). CONCLUSIONS: In COPD patients, LV geometry is associated with airflow limitation, functional capacity, and grip strength. Specifically, concentric LV remodeling is associated with increased airflow limitation and decreased functional capacity whereas increased LV mass is associated with decreased grip strength.

Falha de extubação em unidade de terapia intensiva pediátrica: estudo de coorte retrospectivo / Fracaso de la extubación en una unidad de cuidados intensivos pediátrica: un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo / Extubation failure in pediatric intensive care unit: a retrospective cohort study

RESUMO Na unidade de terapia intensiva (UTI) pediátrica, a falha de extubação pode aumentar o risco de mortalidade. Este estudo objetivou: (1) verificar a taxa de falha de extubação na UTI pediátrica de um hospital público do município de Bauru (São Paulo, Brasil); (2) identificar a principal causa atribuída à falha de extubação; (3) avaliar se características como a idade e o tempo de ventilação mecânica invasiva (VMI) estão associadas à falha de extubação; (4) avaliar se o tempo de permanência na UTI e hospital é maior entre os pacientes que apresentaram falha de extubação. Foi realizado estudo de coorte retrospectivo com 89 pacientes internados de maio de 2017 até julho de 2018. Os resultados mostraram taxa de falha de extubação correspondente a 16%. A principal causa atribuída à falha de extubação foi o estridor laríngeo, totalizando 57% dos casos. A comparação intergrupos (sucesso vs. falha de extubação) não mostrou diferenças em relação à idade (p=0,294) e ao tempo de VMI (p=0,228). No entanto, observamos que o grupo falha de extubação apresentou maior tempo de UTI (p=0,000) e hospital (p=0,010). Desta forma, concluímos que a taxa de extubação está de acordo com a observada em outros estudos. O estridor laríngeo foi responsável por mais da metade dos casos de falha de extubação. Embora a idade e o tempo de VMI não tenham sido características associadas à falha de extubação, esta contribuiu para o maior período de permanência na UTI e no hospital.

RESUMEN En la unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI) pediátrica, el fracaso de la extubación puede aumentar el riesgo de mortalidad. Este estudio tuvo el objetivo de: (1) verificar el índice de fracaso de la extubación en la UCI pediátrica de un hospital público en el municipio de Bauru (São Paulo, Brasil); (2) identificar la causa principal atribuida al fracaso de la extubación; (3) evaluar si las características edad y tiempo de ventilación mecánica invasiva (VMI) están asociadas al fracaso de la extubación; (4) evaluar si la duración en la UCI y el hospital es mayor entre los pacientes que experimentaron este fracaso. Se realizó un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo con 89 pacientes hospitalizados desde mayo de 2017 hasta julio de 2018. Los índices del fracaso de la extubación fueron del 16%. El estridor laríngeo fue la causa principal atribuida al fracaso de la extubación, lo que totaliza el 57% de los casos. La comparación intergrupal (éxito versus fracaso de la extubación) no presentó diferencias en relación con la edad (p=0,294) y el tiempo VMI (p=0,228). Se observó que el grupo fracaso de la extubación estuvo más tiempo en la UCI (p=0,000) y el hospital (p=0,010). Se concluye que el índice de extubación está en consonancia con lo observado en otros estudios. El estridor laríngeo fue el responsable de más de la mitad de los casos de fracaso de la extubación. Las características edad y el tiempo de VMI no estuvieron asociadas al fracaso de la extubación, pero esta contribuyó a un período más prolongado en la UCI y en el hospital.

ABSTRACT In the pediatric intensive care unit (ICU), extubation failure may increase mortality risk. This study aimed: (1) to verify the rate of extubation failure in the pediatric ICU of a public hospital located in the city of Bauru (São Paulo, Brazil); (2) to identify the main cause attributed to extubation failure; (3) to evaluate whether age and time of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) are characteristics associated to extubation failure; (4) to evaluate whether the length of stay in the ICU/hospital is longer among patients who presented extubation failure. A retrospective study was performed with 89 hospitalized patients from May 2017 to July 2018. Results showed an extubation failure rate corresponding to 16%. The main cause attributed to extubation failure was laryngeal stridor, totaling 57% of the cases. Intergroup comparison (success vs. failure of extubation) showed no differences in relation to age (p=0.294) and IMV time (p=0.228). However, we observed that the extubation failure group had longer ICU (p=0.000) and hospital time (p=0.010). In this way, we conclude that the rate of extubation failure is in agreement with other studies. Laryngeal stridor was responsible for more than half of cases of extubation failure. Although IMV time and age were not associated with the extubation failure, they contributed to a longer stay in the ICU and in the hospital.

Deep Water Running na melhoria da capacidade funcional em universitários obesos: estudo piloto

Resumo Deep Water Running (DWR) no sistema de treinamento intervalado (STI) é um método de treinamento e reabilitação física indicado para obesos. O objetivo foi investigar a influência do DWR-STI na composição corporal e capacidade funcional em adultos jovens com obesidade. Trata-se de um estudo piloto de ensaio clínico não controlado de amostragem não probabilística. Foram feitas medida da circunferência abdominal, avaliação das dobras cutâneas, análise da composição corporal e aplicação do teste de caminhada de seis minutos (TC6). Houve aumento na distância percorrida avaliada pelo TC6 de 598,08 ± 63,79 metros para 645,46 ± 81,93 metros após seis semanas de intervenção. DWR-STI contribuiu para a melhoria na capacidade funcional em universitários obesos.

Abstract Deep Water Running (DWR) in the interval training system (ITS) is a method of training and physical rehabilitation indicated for obese patients. The objective was to investigate the influence of DWR-ITS on body composition and functional capacity in young adults with obesity. This is a pilot study of uncontrolled clinical trial of non-probabilistic sampling. Measurement of abdominal circumference, evaluation of skinfolds, analysis of body composition and application of the six-minute walk test (6MWT) were performed. There was an increase in the distance walked evaluated by the 6MWT from 598,08 ± 63,79 meters to 645,46 ± 81,93 meters after six weeks of intervention. DWR-ITS contributed to the improvement in functional capacity in obese university students.

Resumen Deep Water Running (DWR) en el sistema de entrenamiento a intervalos (SEI) es un método de entrenamiento y rehabilitación física indicada para personas obesas. El objetivo fue investigar la influencia del SEI DWR en la composición corporal y capacidad funcional de adultos jóvenes con obesidad. Se trata de un estudio piloto de ensayo clínico no controlado de muestreo no probabilístico. Se midió el perímetro abdominal, se evaluaron los pliegues cutáneos, se analizó la composición corporal y la aplicación de la prueba de caminata de 6 minutos (PC6). Se observó un aumento en la distancia recorrida evaluada por la PC6 de 598,08 ± 63,79 m a 645,46 ± 81,93 m después de 6 semanas de intervención. El SEI DWR contribuyó a la mejora de la capacidad funcional de universitarios obesos.

Lipid profile, functional capacity and ankle-brachial index in active older adults / Perfil lipídico, capacidade funcional e índice tornozelo-braquial em idosos ativos / Perfil lipídico, capacidad funcional e índice tobillo-braquial en adultos de la tercera edad activos

ABSTRACT Introduction: Regular physical activity prevents cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and atherosclerosis, in addition to improving lipid levels and functional capacity in older adults. Objective: To evaluate and compare the lipid levels, functional performance and ankle brachial index (ABI) of sedentary and active older adults. Methods: This was a comparative cross-sectional study with 84 elderly (≥60 years) male and female subjects, divided into two groups: sedentary group (SG, n = 50) and active group (AG, n = 34) according to the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Anthropometric and hemodynamic assessments, ankle brachial index (ABI) calculations, and functionality tests (Short Physical Performance Battery - SPPB and 6-minute walking test - 6MWT) were performed. The Shapiro-Wilk normality test was also used, and we conducted the Student's-t and Mann-Whitney tests for the intergroup comparison. For the categorical data, we used Fisher's exact test (p <0.05). Results: Higher values of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) (p = 0.001) and lower triglycerides (TG) (p = 0.007) were found in AG compared to SG. In the ABI evaluation, AG presented better right (p = 0.012), left (p = 0.015) and end (p = 0.004) ABI rates when compared to SG. AG had better results in functional performance in the SPPB evaluation (p = 0.0007) and in the 6MWT with a greater distance covered (p = 0.0027). In the anthropometric measurements, AG had lower body mass index (BMI) (0.041) and a smaller abdominal circumference (WC) (0.029). In terms of the incidence of referred diseases, intergroup results were only different for hypertension (0.029), while AG had a lower incidence of hypertension. Conclusion: Active older adults had better lipid levels, higher ABI levels, better functional performance, lower body mass, a smaller abdominal circumference, and lower incidence of hypertension, in comparison to sedentary subjects. Level of evidence I; High quality prospective study.

RESUMO Introdução: A prática de atividade física regular previne doenças cardiovasculares (DCV) e aterosclerose, além de melhorar o perfil lipídico e a capacidade funcional em idosos. Objetivo: Avaliar e comparar o perfil lipídico, desempenho funcional e índice tornozelo-braquial (ITB) de idosos sedentários e ativos. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo comparativo e transversal com 84 idosos (≥ 60 anos) de ambos os sexos, divididos em dois grupos: grupo sedentário (GS, n= 50) e grupo ativo (GA, n= 34) segundo o Questionário Internacional de Atividade Física (IPAQ). Foram realizadas avaliações antropométricas, hemodinâmicas, índice tornozelo-braquial (ITB) e testes de funcionalidade (Short Physical Performance Battery - SPPB e teste de caminhada de 6 minutos - TC6). Além disso, foi utilizado o teste de normalidade Shapiro-Wilk e na comparação entre os grupos utilizou-se o teste t-Student e o teste Mann-Whitney. Já para os dados categóricos, utilizou-se o teste exato de Fisher (p<0,05). Resultados: Foi verificado no GA valores maiores da lipoproteína de alta densidade (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, HDL-c) (p = 0,001) e menores de triglicerídeo (TG) (p = 0,007) quando comparados ao GS. Na avaliação ITB, observou-se que o GA apresentou melhores índices de ITB direito (p = 0,012), esquerdo (p = 0,015) e final (p = 0,004) quando comparado ao GS. Houve melhores resultados do GA no desempenho funcional na avaliação SPPB (p = 0,0007) e no TC6 com maior distância percorrida (p = 0,0027). Nas medidas antropométricas, o GA apresentou menor índice de massa corporal (IMC) (0,041) e circunferência abdominal (CA) (0,029). Na incidência das doenças referidas, apenas a hipertensão apresentou resultados diferentes entre os grupos (0,029), sendo que o GA teve menor incidência de hipertensão. Conclusão: Os idosos ativos apresentaram melhor perfil lipídico, maiores níveis de ITB, melhor desempenho funcional, além de menor massa corpórea, menor circunferência abdominal e menor incidência de hipertensão em comparação aos sedentários. Nível de evidência I; Estudo prospectivo de alta qualidade.

RESUMEN Introducción: La práctica de actividad física regular previene enfermedades cardiovasculares (ECV) y aterosclerosis, además de mejorar el perfil lipídico y la capacidad funcional en adultos de la tercera edad. Objetivo: Evaluar y comparar el perfil lipídico, desempeño funcional e índice tobillo-braquial (ITB) en adultos de la tercera edad sedentarios y activos. Métodos: Se trata de un estudio comparativo y transversal, con 84 adultos de la tercera edad (≥ 60 años) de ambos sexos, divididos en dos grupos: grupo sedentario (GS, n = 50) y grupo activo (GA, n = 34) según el Cuestionario Internacional de Actividad Física (IPAQ). Fueron realizadas evaluaciones antropométricas, hemodinámicas, índice tobillo-braquial (ITB) y tests de funcionalidad (Short Physical Performance Battery - SPPB y Test de Caminata de 6 minutos - TC6). Además, se utilizó el test de normalidad Shapiro-Wilk y en la comparación entre los grupos se usó el test t-Student y el test Mann-Whitney. Ya para los datos categóricos se usó el test exacto de Fisher (p <0,05). Resultados: Se verificaron en el GA valores mayores de lipoproteína de alta densidad (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, HDL-c) (p = 0,001) y menores de triglicéridos (TG) (p = 0,007) cuando comparados al GS. En la evaluación ITB, se observó que el GA mostró mejores índices de ITB derecho (p = 0,012), izquierdo (p = 0,015) y final (p = 0,004) cuando comparado al GS. Hubo mejores resultados del GA en el desempeño funcional en la evaluación SPPB (p = 0,0007) y en el TC6 con mayor distancia recorrida (p = 0,0027). En las medidas antropométricas, el GA presentó menor índice de masa corporal (IMC) (0,041) y circunferencia abdominal (CA) (0.029). En la incidencia de las enfermedades referidas, sólo la hipertensión presentó resultados diferentes entre los grupos (0.029), siendo que el GA tuvo menor incidencia de hipertensión. Conclusión: Los adultos de la tercera edad activos presentaron mejor perfil lipídico, mayores niveles de ITB, mejor desempeño funcional, además de menor masa corpórea, menor circunferencia abdominal y menor incidencia de hipertensión en comparación a los sedentarios. Nivel de evidencia I; Estudio prospectivo de alta calidad.

Chronic treatment with fluoride affects the jejunum: insights from proteomics and enteric innervation analysis.

Gastrointestinal symptoms are the first signs of fluoride (F) toxicity. In the present study, the jejunum of rats chronically exposed to F was evaluated by proteomics, as well as by morphological analysis. Wistar rats received water containing 0, 10 or 50 mgF/L during 30 days. HuC/D, neuronal Nitric Oxide (nNOS), Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP), Calcitonin Gene Related Peptide (CGRP), and Substance P (SP) were detected in the myenteric plexus of the jejunum by immunofluorescence. The density of nNOS-IR neurons was significantly decreased (compared to both control and 10 mgF/L groups), while the VIP-IR varicosities were significantly increased (compared to control) in the group treated with the highest F concentration. Significant morphological changes were seen observed in the density of HUC/D-IR neurons and in the area of SP-IR varicosities for F-treated groups compared to control. Changes in the abundance of various proteins correlated with relevant biological processes, such as protein synthesis, glucose homeostasis and energy metabolism were revealed by proteomics.

Multicomponent training to improve the functional fitness and glycemic control of seniors with type 2 diabetes / Treinamento multicomponente melhora a aptidão funcional e controle glicêmico de idosos com diabetes tipo 2

ABSTRACT Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent disease in older adults and associated with functional impairment and abnormalities of the glycemic metabolism. Multicomponent training, which consists of strength, balance, coordination, gait, agility and proprioception exercises, is recommended to improve the physical function of the elderly, but its effects in the treatment of T2DM are not clear. The main goal was to investigate the effect of a multicomponent training protocol on functional and glycemic parameters in seniors with T2DM. Thirteen older adults (68±6 years) with T2DM were included. Before and after the intervention period, the following tests were performed: chair stand, arm curl, sit and reach, six-minute walk test (6MWT), fasting blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C). The training program was conducted for 16 weeks, three times a week, on nonconsecutive days. Each session consisted of 10 minutes of warm-up, 50 minutes of multicomponent exercises (coordination, muscle strength, flexibility, balance and agility) and 10 minutes of stretching and relaxation. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-test and the Wilcoxon test (p<0.05). Training induced an improvement in the arm curl (p = 0.001), sit and reach (p = 0.004), 6MWT (p = 0.009) and HbA1C (p = 0.01) tests. In conclusion, the multicomponent training protocol improved functional fitness and glycemic control in seniors with T2DM. However, fasting blood glucose levels and muscle strength of the lower limbs remained unchanged

RESUMO A diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM2) é uma doença prevalente em idosos e está associada à incapacidade funcional e anormalidades do metabolismo glicêmico. O treinamento multicomponente, composto por exercícios de força, equilíbrio, coordenação, marcha, agilidade e propriocepção, é recomendado para melhorar a função física de idosos, porém seus efeitos no tratamento da DM2 não estão claros. Objetivou-se investigar o efeito de um protocolo de treinamento multicomponente na aptidão funcional e parâmetros glicêmicos de idosos com DM2. Foram incluídos 13 idosos com DM2 e idade de 68 ± 6 anos. Antes e após o período de intervenção foram realizados os seguintes testes: chair stand, arm curl, sentar e alcançar, teste de caminhada de seis minutos (TC6M), glicemia de jejum e hemoglobina glicada (HbA1C). O programa de treinamento foi realizado por 16 semanas, três vezes/semana, em dias não consecutivos. Cada sessão consistiu de 10 minutos de aquecimento, 50 minutos de exercícios multicomponentes (coordenação, força muscular, flexibilidade, equilíbrio e agilidade) e 10 minutos de alongamento e relaxamento. Para a análise estatística foi utilizado o teste t pareado e teste de Wilcoxon (p<0,05). O treinamento induziu melhora nos testes arm curl (p = 0,001), sentar e alcançar (p = 0,004), TC6M (p = 0,009) e HbA1C (p = 0,01). Conclui-se que o protocolo de treinamento multicomponente promoveu melhora da aptidão funcional e do controle glicêmico em idosos com DM2. Entretanto, a glicemia de jejum e a força muscular de membros inferiores permaneceram inalteradas.

Respostas agudas glicêmicas e cardiovasculares do Deep Water Running em mulheres obesas / Glycemic and cardiovascular acute responses of Deep Water Running in obese women

Introdução: Deep Water Running no sistema de treinamento intervalado (DWR-STI) é um método de treinamento e reabilitação física que pode contribuir para o controle dos fatores de risco da obesidade. Objetivo: investigar as respostas agudas imediatas pós-sessão de DWR-STI na glicemia capilar, pressão arterial (PA) e frequência cardíaca (FC) em mulheres obesas. Métodos: participaram 14 voluntárias obesas, com idade de 50,28 ± 4,24 anos. Foram realizados testes da glicemia capilar, medidas da PA e FC pré e pós-sessão de DWR-STI. Resultados: houve diferença nos valores da glicemia capilar pré e pós-sessão (de 102,36 ± 27,19 mg/dl para 84,64 ± 10,48 mg/dl). Conclusão: conclui-se que uma sessão de DWR-STI reduz a glicemia capilar em mulheres obesas. Contudo, ainda são necessários mais estudos para tentar desvendar os mecanismos e as respostas fisiológicas agudas imediatas do DWR-STI nas variáveis cardiovasculares e na glicemia capilar.

Introduction: Deep Water Running in the interval training system (DWR-ITS) is a method of training and physical rehabilitation that can contribute to the control of the risk factors of obesity. Objective: investigate the immediate post-session DWR-ITS acute responses in capillary glycemia, blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) in obese women. Methods: participants were 14 obese volunteers, aged 50.28 ± 4.24 years. Capillary glycemia tests were performed, measurements of BP and HR pre and post-session of DWR-ITS. Results: there was a difference in pre and post-session capillary glycemia values (from 102.36 ± 27.19 mg/dl to 84.64 ± 10.48 mg/ dl). Conclusion: it is concluded that a DWR-STI session reduces capillary glycemia in obese women. However, further studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms of physiological immediate responses after DWR-STI in cardiovascular and capillary glycemia variables.

Enteric innervation combined with proteomics for the evaluation of the effects of chronic fluoride exposure on the duodenum of rats.

Ingested fluoride (F) is absorbed mainly in the small intestine, which is controlled by the Enteric Nervous System (ENS). Although important intestinal symptomatology has been described after excessive F exposure, there have been no studies reporting the effects of F on the ENS. In this study, the effects of chronic F exposure were evaluated on the duodenums of rats through proteomic and morphological analyses. Concentrations of 0, 10, or 50 ppm of F were applied to the drinking water for 30 days. Immunofluorescence techniques were performed in the myenteric plexus of the duodenum to detect HuC/D, neuronal nitric oxide (nNOS), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP), and substance P (SP). The 50 ppm F group presented a significant decrease in the density of nNOS-IR neurons. Significant morphological alterations were also observed in HUC/D-IR and nNOS-IR neurons; VIP-IR, CGRP-IR, and SP-IR varicosities for both groups (10 and 50 ppm F). Proteomic analysis of the duodenum demonstrated alterations in the expression of several proteins, especially those related to important biological processes, such as protein polymerization, which helps to explain the downregulation of many proteins upon exposure to 50 ppm of F.