Development and evaluation of a tool to optimise inhaler selection prior to hospital discharge following an exacerbation of COPD.

Introduction: Rates of mortality and re-admission after a hospitalised exacerbation of COPD are high and resistant to change. COPD guidelines do not give practical advice about the optimal selection of inhaled drugs and device in this situation. We hypothesised that a failure to optimise inhaled drug and drug delivery prior to discharge from hospital after an exacerbation would be associated with a modifiable increased risk of re-admission and death. We designed a study to 1) develop a practical inhaler selection tool to use at the point of hospital discharge and 2) implement this tool to understand the potential impact on modifying inhaler prescriptions, clinical outcomes, acceptability to clinicians and patients, and the feasibility of delivering a definitive trial to demonstrate potential benefit. Methods: We iteratively developed an inhaler selection tool for use prior to discharge following a hospitalised exacerbation of COPD using surveys with multiprofessional clinicians and a focus group of people living with COPD. We surveyed clinicians to understand their views on the minimum clinically important difference (MCID) for death and re-admission following a hospitalised exacerbation of COPD. We conducted a mixed-methods implementation feasibility study using the tool at discharge, and collated 30- and 90-day follow-up data including death and re-admissions. Additionally, we observed the tool being used and interviewed clinicians and patients about use of the tool in this setting. Results: We completed the design of an inhaler selection tool through two rounds of consultations with 94 multiprofessional clinicians, and a focus group of four expert patients. Regarding MCIDs, there was majority consensus for the following reductions from baseline being the MCID: 30-day readmissions 5-10%, 90-day readmissions 10-20%, 30-day mortality 5-10% and 90-day mortality 5-10%. 118 patients were assessed for eligibility and 26 had the tool applied. A change in inhaled medication was recommended in nine (35%) out of 26. Re-admission or death at 30 days was seen in 33% of the switch group and 35% of the no-switch group. Re-admission or death at 90 days was seen in 56% of the switch group and 41% of the no-switch group. Satisfaction with inhalers was generally high, and switching was associated with a small increase in the Feeling of Satisfaction with Inhaler questionnaire of 3 out of 50 points. Delivery of a definitive study would be challenging. Conclusion: We completed a mixed-methods study to design and implement a tool to aid optimisation of inhaled pharmacotherapy prior to discharge following a hospitalised exacerbation of COPD. This was not associated with fewer re-admissions, but was well received and one-third of people were eligible for a change in inhalers.

The six-minute step test can predict COPD exacerbations: a 36-month follow-up study.

The six-minute step test (6MST) has been shown to be effective in assessing exercise capacity in individuals with COPD regardless of severity and, despite its easy execution, accessibility and validity, information on the prognostic power of this test remains uncertain. The aim of this study is to investigate whether the 6MST can predict the occurrence of exacerbations in patients with COPD. This is a prospective cohort study with a 36-month follow-up in patients with COPD. All patients completed a clinical assessment, followed by pulmonary function testing and a 6MST. The 6MST was performed on a 20 cm high step; heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, BORG dyspnea and fatigue were collected. Sixty-four patients were included in the study, the majority being elderly men. Performance on the 6MST demonstrated lower performance compared to normative values proposed in the literature, indicating a reduced functional capacity. Kaplan Meier analysis revealed that ≤ 59 steps climbed during the 6MST was a strong predictor of COPD exacerbation over a 36-month follow-up. We have identified a minimal threshold number of steps (≤ 59) obtained through the 6MST may be able predict the risk of exacerbations in patients with COPD.

Case-Finding tool for COPD in LMIC (COLA) - translation and cross-cultural adaptation into Brazilian Portuguese language.

OBJECTIVE: To translate and cross-culturally adapt the COPD in Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) Assessment (COLA) questionnaire into Brazilian Portuguese, a case-finding instrument for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). METHODS: Translation and cross-cultural adaptation were completed in six steps: the original version was translated into Brazilian Portuguese by two native speakers of the target language; the translated versions were synthesized; back-translation was performed by two native speakers of the original language; the back-translation and the Brazilian Portuguese version of the COLA were reviewed and harmonized by an expert committee of specialists; and, then, the pre-final version was tested by 30 health professionals who were asked if the items were clear to understand. The acceptability, clarity, and understandability of the translated version were evaluated. A final review of the questionnaire was produced by the authors and approved by the author of the original questionnaire. RESULTS: Some idiomatic, semantic, and experiential inconsistencies were identified and properly adjusted. Item 3 was considered the most unclear item (23,3%). Items 7, 8, and 9 presented clarity above 80% (93%, 90%, and 90%, respectively). Suggestions were discussed and incorporated into the tool and COLA was found to be clear and easy to understand. CONCLUSIONS: The Brazilian version of the COLA was easily understood by healthcare professionals and adapted to Brazilian culture. Translation and cultural adaptation of the COLA instrument into Brazilian Portuguese can be an important case-finding instrument for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in Brazil.

Performance-based outcome measures to assess functionality in hospitalised patients with COPD exacerbations: a systematic review of the measurement properties.

INTRODUCTION: Hospitalised patients with exacerbations of COPD (ECOPD) may have physical and functional impairments that impact morbidity and readmission. Therefore, it is crucial to properly identify reduced functionality in these patients to support a personalised rehabilitation. The objective of this study is to summarise and compare the measurement properties of functionality performance-based outcome measures for hospitalised patients with ECOPD. METHODS: A systematic review based on the Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) was performed. The PubMed, Embase, PEDro and Cochrane databases were searched using terms related to functionality, hospitalised patients with ECOPD and measurement properties. Studies were selected and extracted by two researchers. The COSMIN Risk of Bias checklist was applied to assess the methodological quality of the studies and measurement property results were compared with the criteria for good measurement properties. Quality of evidence was graded using a modified Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. RESULTS: 13 studies were included with nine outcome measures, namely the 6-min pegboard ring test, the de Morton mobility index, the incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT), the 6-min walk test (6MWT), maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), the Berg balance scale, 4-m gait speed, handgrip strength and the 6-min stepper test. Construct validity was rated as sufficient, except for the ISWT. Responsiveness, assessed only for MIP, was considered insufficient and measurement errors for the ISWT and 6MWT were insufficient, with a very low quality of evidence for all measurement properties. CONCLUSION: Measurement properties of performance-based outcome measures to assess functionality in patients hospitalised with ECOPD are still scarce, with very low evidence supporting validity and a lack of evidence of responsiveness and reliability. Further studies are needed to address this topic and guide assertive and personalised management.

Unmet Diagnostic and Therapeutic Opportunities for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Low- and Middle-Income Countries.

Rationale: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a prevalent and burdensome condition in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Challenges to better care include more effective diagnosis and access to affordable interventions. There are no previous reports describing therapeutic needs of populations with COPD in LMICs who were identified through screening. Objectives: To describe unmet therapeutic need in screening-detected COPD in LMIC settings. Methods: We compared interventions recommended by the international Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease COPD strategy document, with that received in 1,000 people with COPD identified by population screening at three LMIC sites in Nepal, Peru, and Uganda. We calculated costs using data on the availability and affordability of medicines. Measurement and Main Results: The greatest unmet need for nonpharmacological interventions was for education and vaccinations (applicable to all), pulmonary rehabilitation (49%), smoking cessation (30%), and advice on biomass smoke exposure (26%). Ninety-five percent of the cases were previously undiagnosed, and few were receiving therapy (4.5% had short-acting ß-agonists). Only three of 47 people (6%) with a previous COPD diagnosis had access to drugs consistent with recommendations. None of those with more severe COPD were accessing appropriate maintenance inhalers. Even when available, maintenance treatments were unaffordable, with 30 days of treatment costing more than a low-skilled worker's daily average wage. Conclusions: We found a significant missed opportunity to reduce the burden of COPD in LMIC settings, with most cases undiagnosed. Although there is unmet need in developing novel therapies, in LMICs where the burden is greatest, better diagnosis combined with access to affordable interventions could translate to immediate benefit.

Predictors of cardiopulmonary exercise testing in COPD patients according to the Weber classification.

BACKGROUND: Weber classification stratifies cardiac patients based on peak oxygen consumption (V̇O2), the gold-standard measure of exercise capacity. OBJECTIVE: To determine if Weber classification is a useful tool to discriminate clinical phenotypes in COPD patients and to evaluate if disease severity and other clinical measures can predict V̇O2peak. METHODS: Three hundred and six COPD patients underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) and were divided according to Weber class: 1) Weber A (n = 34); 2) Weber B (n = 88); 3) Weber C (n = 138); and 4) Weber D (n = 46). RESULTS: Weber class D patients demonstrated a reduced V̇O2 peak, heart rate (HR), minute ventilation (V̇E), oxygen (O2) pulse, circulatory power (CP), oxygen uptake efficiency slope (OUES), oxygen saturation (SpO2%), delta (Δ)HR and ΔSpO2 when compared to Weber A and B (p<0.05). Moreover, Dyspnea and the V̇E/carbon dioxide production (V̇CO2) slope were higher in Weber D compared with Weber C and A (p<0.001). Hierarchical regression analysis demonstrated significant predictors of V̇O2peak (R2= 0.131; Adj R 2 = 1.25), including HR (ß=0.5757; t = 5.7; P<0.001) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) (ß=0.119; t = 2.16; P<0.03). Among the Weber C + D groups, predictors of V̇O2peak (R = 0.78; R2= 0.60; Adj R2 =0.59), dyspnea (ß=0.076; t = 1.111; P<0.27) and maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV) (ß=0.75; t = 1.14; P<0.00). CONCLUSION: Weber classification may be a useful tool to stratify cardiorespiratory fitness in COPD patients. Other clinical measures may be useful in predicting peak V̇O2 in mild-to-severe COPD, moreover different phenotypes may be important tool to improve physical capacity of chronic disease patients.

Inter- and intrarater reliability of short-term measurement of heart rate variability on rest in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

BACKGROUND: Individuals with COPD have an imbalance of cardiac autonomic control. In this context, HRV is considered an important tool for assessing cardiac sympathetic and parasympathetic balance, however it is a dependent evaluator measure and subject to methodological biases that may compromise the interpretation of results. OBJECTIVE: This study examines the inter- and intrarater reliability of HRV parameters derived from short-term recordings in individuals with COPD. METHODOLOGY: Fifty-one individuals of both genders with COPD clinical diagnosis confirmed by the pulmonary function test and aged ≥50 years were included. The RR interval (RRi) were recorded during a 10 min period on supine position using a portable heart rate monitor (Polar® H10 model). The data were transferred into Kubios® HRV Standard analysis software and analyzed within the stable sessions containing 256 sequential RRi. RESULTS: The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) ranged from 0.942 to 1.000 according to the intrarater analysis by Researcher 01 and 0.915 to 0.998 to the intrarater by Researcher 02. The interrater ICC ranged from 0.921 to 0.998. The coefficient of variation was up to 8.28 for Researcher 01 intrarater analysis, 9.06 for Researcher 02 intrarater analysis and 13.07 for interrater analysis. CONCLUSION: The measurement of HRV using a portable heart rate device in individuals with COPD present acceptable values of intra- and interrater reliability, supporting the use of HRV in the clinical and scientific scenario. Furthermore, it is important that the data analysis be performed by the same experienced evaluator.

Translation, Cross-Cultural Adaptation, and Validation of the Hypertension Self-Care Profile (HBP-SCP) for the Brazilian Population

Abstract Background Self-care in the management of systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) is crucial, and validated instruments can help researchers and health professionals to plan strategies to improve self-care in people with SAH. Objective The main objective of this study was to translate, cross-culturally adapt, and validated the Hypertension Self-Care Profile (HBP-SCP) for Brazilian Portuguese. Methods The translation and cross-cultural adaptation was performed in five phases, and the pre-final version was tested in 30 individuals, native speakers of Portuguese with a diagnosis of hypertension. The final version was administered in 100 individuals. The inclusion criteria were: diagnosis of SAH, characterized by systolic arterial blood pressure ≥ 140 mmHg and/or diastolic arterial blood pressure ≥ 90mmHg, regular use of antihypertensive medications and over 18 years of age. The present study also used two other questionnaires, previously validated for the Brazilian population, to verify the validity of the construct, the Healthy Habits Perception Questionnaire (HHPQ) and the Quality of Life in Hypertension Mini-Questionnaire (MINICHAL-BRASIL). Results During the translation and cross-cultural adaptation phase, there were no disagreements. Adequate reliability — intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) ≥ 0.89, standard error of measurement (SEM) % ≤ 4.34, minimum detectable change (MDC) % ≤ 12.04 — and internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha ≥ 0.75) were observed. The behavior domain of HBP-SCP obtained significant correlations (p < 0.05) with the self-efficacy domain and HHPQ; the motivation domain with the self-efficacy domain; and the self-efficacy domain with the somatic manifestation domain of MINICHAL-BRASIL. No ceiling and floor effects were observed. Conclusions The Brazilian Portuguese version of the HBP-SCP has adequate psychometric properties, according to the best scientific recommendations.

Non-invasive ventilatory support accelerates the oxygen uptake and heart rate kinetics and improves muscle oxygenation dynamics in COPD-HF patients.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to explore the effects of non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) associated with high-intensity exercise on heart rate (HR) and oxygen uptake (V̇O2) recovery kinetics in in patients with coexistence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart failure (HF). METHODS: This is a randomized, double blinded, sham-controlled study involving 14 HF-COPD patients, who underwent a lung function test and Doppler echocardiography. On two different days, patients performed incremental cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) and two constant-work rate tests (80% of CPET peak) receiving Sham or NIPPV (bilevel mode - Astral 150) in a random order until the limit of tolerance (Tlim). During exercise, oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin were assessed using near-infrared spectroscopy (Oxymon, Artinis Medical Systems, Einsteinweg, Netherland). RESULTS: The kinetic variables of both V̇O2 and HR during the high-intensity constant workload protocol were significantly faster in the NIPPV protocol compared to Sham ventilation (P < 0.05). Also, there was a marked improvement in oxygenation and lower deoxygenation of both peripheral and respiratory musculature in TLim during NIPPV when contrasted with Sham ventilation. CONCLUSIONS: NIPPV applied during high-intensity dynamic exercise can effectively improve exercise tolerance, accelerate HR and V̇O2 kinetics, improve respiratory and peripheral muscle oxygenation in COPD-HF patients. These beneficial results from the effects of NIPPV may provide evidence and a basis for high-intensity physical training for these patients in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation programs.

Measurement properties of the Brazilian version of the Kidney Symptom Questionnaire.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to measure the reliability, internal consistency, and construct validity of the Kidney Symptom Questionnaire for the Brazilian population. METHODS: This is a cross-cultural adaptation and questionnaire validation study. We included native Brazilians of both sex aged>18 years, as well as hypertensive and/or diabetic patients. All participants were assessed using Screening for Occult Renal Disease, EuroQol 5 Dimensions, 36-Item Short Form Survey, and the Kidney Symptom Questionnaire. We used Spearman's coefficient (rho) to measure the correlations between the Kidney Symptom Questionnaire and other instruments; Cronbach's alpha to measure internal consistency; and intraclass correlation coefficient, standard error of measurement, and minimum detectable change to measure test-retest reliability. RESULTS: The sample was formed by 121 adult participants, mostly female, with systemic arterial hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus. We found excellent reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient≥0.978), adequate internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha≥0.860), and adequate construct validity on the Kidney Symptom Questionnaire domains; besides, we observed significant correlations between the Kidney Symptom Questionnaire and other instruments. CONCLUSION: The Brazilian version of the Kidney Symptom Questionnaire has adequate measurement properties to assess chronic/occult kidney disease in patients who do not require renal replacement therapy.

Cardiorespiratory coupling as an early marker of cardiac autonomic dysfunction in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.

The aim of this study was to assess cardiorespiratory coupling (CRC) in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients (T2DM) and apparently healthy individuals, in order to test the hypothesis that this method can provide additional knowledge to the information obtained through the heart rate variability (HRV). A cross-sectional study was conducted in T2DM patients(T2DMG=32) and health controls (CON=32). For CRC analysis, the electrocardiogram, arterial pressure, and thoracic respiratory movement were recorded at rest in supine position and during active standing. Beat-to-beat series of heart period and systolic arterial pressure were analyzed with the respiratory movement signal via a traditional non-causal approach, such as squared coherence function. In this sample of T2DM, no differences in HRV were observed when compared to the CON, but the T2DMG showed a reduction in resting CRC. We conclude that in CRC in T2DM, reflected by the squared coherence may already be compromised even before HRV changes.

Obstructive sleep apnea reduces functional capacity and impairs cardiac autonomic modulation during submaximal exercise in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A follow-up study.

BACKGROUND: Functional capacity and heart rate variability (HRV) are important prognostic markers in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA). However, the impact of the overlap of these diseases and the one-year clinical follow-up has not yet been evaluated. OBJECTIVES: To assess whether the presence of OSA can impair functional performance and cardiac autonomic control during exercise in patients with COPD; and to verify whether the overlap of these diseases could lead to worse clinical outcomes during the one-year follow-up. METHODS: Thirty-four patients underwent pulmonary function tests, echocardiography and polysomnography for diagnostic confirmation, disease staging, exclusion of any cardiac changes, and allocation between groups. The patients underwent the six-minute walk test (6MWT) to assess functional capacity and HRV during exercise. Subsequently, patients were followed up for 12 months to record outcomes such as exacerbation, hospitalization, and deaths. At the end of this period, the patients were revaluated to verify the hypotheses of the study. RESULTS: The OSA-COPD group showed greater functional impairment when compared to the COPD group (p=0.003) and showed worse cardiac autonomic responses during the 6MWT with greater parasympathetic activation (p=0.03) and less complexity of the autonomic nervous system, in addition to being more likely to exacerbate (p=0.03) during one year of follow-up. CONCLUSION: OSA-COPD produces deleterious effects on functional performance and a greater autonomic imbalance that impairs clinical outcomes.

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.

Case-Finding tool for COPD in LMIC (COLA) - translation and cross-cultural adaptation into Brazilian Portuguese language

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To translate and cross-culturally adapt the COPD in Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) Assessment (COLA) questionnaire into Brazilian Portuguese, a case-finding instrument for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). METHODS Translation and cross-cultural adaptation were completed in six steps: the original version was translated into Brazilian Portuguese by two native speakers of the target language; the translated versions were synthesized; back-translation was performed by two native speakers of the original language; the back-translation and the Brazilian Portuguese version of the COLA were reviewed and harmonized by an expert committee of specialists; and, then, the pre-final version was tested by 30 health professionals who were asked if the items were clear to understand. The acceptability, clarity, and understandability of the translated version were evaluated. A final review of the questionnaire was produced by the authors and approved by the author of the original questionnaire. RESULTS Some idiomatic, semantic, and experiential inconsistencies were identified and properly adjusted. Item 3 was considered the most unclear item (23,3%). Items 7, 8, and 9 presented clarity above 80% (93%, 90%, and 90%, respectively). Suggestions were discussed and incorporated into the tool and COLA was found to be clear and easy to understand. CONCLUSIONS The Brazilian version of the COLA was easily understood by healthcare professionals and adapted to Brazilian culture. Translation and cultural adaptation of the COLA instrument into Brazilian Portuguese can be an important case-finding instrument for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in Brazil.

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.

Measurement properties of the Brazilian version of the Kidney Symptom Questionnaire

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to measure the reliability, internal consistency, and construct validity of the Kidney Symptom Questionnaire for the Brazilian population. METHODS: This is a cross-cultural adaptation and questionnaire validation study. We included native Brazilians of both sex aged>18 years, as well as hypertensive and/or diabetic patients. All participants were assessed using Screening for Occult Renal Disease, EuroQol 5 Dimensions, 36-Item Short Form Survey, and the Kidney Symptom Questionnaire. We used Spearman's coefficient (rho) to measure the correlations between the Kidney Symptom Questionnaire and other instruments; Cronbach's alpha to measure internal consistency; and intraclass correlation coefficient, standard error of measurement, and minimum detectable change to measure test-retest reliability. RESULTS: The sample was formed by 121 adult participants, mostly female, with systemic arterial hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus. We found excellent reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient≥0.978), adequate internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha≥0.860), and adequate construct validity on the Kidney Symptom Questionnaire domains; besides, we observed significant correlations between the Kidney Symptom Questionnaire and other instruments. CONCLUSION: The Brazilian version of the Kidney Symptom Questionnaire has adequate measurement properties to assess chronic/occult kidney disease in patients who do not require renal replacement therapy.

Mobilização passiva precoce aumenta a resposta de reatividade vascular em pacientes graves com sepse: um estudo quase-experimental / Early passive mobilization increases vascular reactivity response in critical patients with sepsis: a quasi-experimental study

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar a influência de uma sessão de mobilização passiva na função endotelial de pacientes com sepse. Métodos: Este foi um estudo quase-experimental duplo-cego e de braço único com desenho pré e pós-intervenção. Participaram 25 pacientes com diagnóstico de sepse hospitalizados em unidade de terapia intensiva. Avaliou-se a função endotelial basal (pré-intervenção) e imediatamente pós-intervenção por meio de ultrassonografia da artéria braquial. Foram obtidas a dilatação mediada pelo fluxo, a velocidade pico de fluxo sanguíneo e a taxa de cisalhamento pico. A mobilização passiva consistiu na mobilização bilateral (tornozelos, joelhos, quadris, pulsos, cotovelos e ombros), com três séries de dez repetições cada, totalizando 15 minutos. Resultados: Após a mobilização, encontramos aumento da função de reatividade vascular em relação à pré-intervenção: dilatação mediada pelo fluxo absoluta (0,57mm ± 0,22 versus 0,17mm ± 0,31; p < 0,001) e dilatação mediada pelo fluxo relativa (17,1% ± 8,25 versus 5,08% ± 9,16; p < 0,001). O pico de fluxo sanguíneo na hiperemia (71,8cm/s ± 29,3 versus 95,3cm/s ± 32,2; p < 0,001) e a taxa de cisalhamento (211s ± 113 versus 288s ± 144; p < 0,001) também aumentaram. Conclusão: Uma sessão de mobilização passiva foi capaz de aumentar a função endotelial em pacientes graves com sepse. Estudos futuros são necessários para investigar se um programa de mobilização pode ser aplicado como intervenção benéfica para melhorar clinicamente a função endotelial em pacientes hospitalizados por sepse.

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the influence of a passive mobilization session on endothelial function in patients with sepsis. Methods: This was a quasi-experimental double-blind and single-arm study with a pre- and postintervention design. Twenty-five patients with a diagnosis of sepsis who were hospitalized in the intensive care unit were included. Endothelial function was assessed at baseline (preintervention) and immediately postintervention by brachial artery ultrasonography. Flow mediated dilatation, peak blood flow velocity and peak shear rate were obtained. Passive mobilization consisted of bilateral mobilization (ankles, knees, hips, wrists, elbows and shoulders), with three sets of ten repetitions each, totaling 15 minutes. Results: After mobilization, we found increased vascular reactivity function compared to preintervention: absolute flow-mediated dilatation (0.57mm ± 0.22 versus 0.17mm ± 0.31; p < 0.001) and relative flow-mediated dilatation (17.1% ± 8.25 versus 5.08% ± 9.16; p < 0.001). Reactive hyperemia peak flow (71.8cm/s ± 29.3 versus 95.3cm/s ± 32.2; p < 0.001) and shear rate (211s ± 113 versus 288s ± 144; p < 0.001) were also increased. Conclusion: A passive mobilization session increases endothelial function in critical patients with sepsis. Future studies should investigate whether a mobilization program can be applied as a beneficial intervention for clinical improvement of endothelial function in patients hospitalized due to sepsis.

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.

Braden scale has low reliability in different patients under care in intensive care unit.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the inter-reliability of the Braden scale and its subscales for different patients assisted in the intensive care unit. We hypothesized that the Braden scale has low reliability in different populations. METHODS: This reliability study involved the Braden scale in intensive care unit of a hospital. A total of 200 patients were admitted to the intensive care unit in four different groups: neurological patients, sepsis, elderly, and adults affected by trauma. The Braden scale is a tool composed of six subscales for patient assessment: sensory perception, humidity, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction. The total score was also calculated. The Braden scale was applied by two different nurses with an interval of 20-30 min between applications. RESULTS: For all populations, kappa values considered unsuitable were observed for most categories of the Braden scale, ranging from 0.06-0.25. Only for the total Braden scale score was moderate reliability identified in all groups evaluated, with intraclass correlation coefficient values ranging from 0.48-0.75. CONCLUSIONS: Braden scale is not a reliable tool to be used in the intensive care unit, and we do not recommend the use of this scale to assess the risk of developing pressure injury.

Braden scale has low reliability in different patients under care in intensive care unit

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the inter-reliability of the Braden scale and its subscales for different patients assisted in the intensive care unit. We hypothesized that the Braden scale has low reliability in different populations. METHODS: This reliability study involved the Braden scale in intensive care unit of a hospital. A total of 200 patients were admitted to the intensive care unit in four different groups: neurological patients, sepsis, elderly, and adults affected by trauma. The Braden scale is a tool composed of six subscales for patient assessment: sensory perception, humidity, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction. The total score was also calculated. The Braden scale was applied by two different nurses with an interval of 20-30 min between applications. RESULTS: For all populations, kappa values considered unsuitable were observed for most categories of the Braden scale, ranging from 0.06-0.25. Only for the total Braden scale score was moderate reliability identified in all groups evaluated, with intraclass correlation coefficient values ranging from 0.48-0.75. CONCLUSIONS: Braden scale is not a reliable tool to be used in the intensive care unit, and we do not recommend the use of this scale to assess the risk of developing pressure injury.