Preliminary Effects of a Structured Educational Program in Cardiac Patients at Different Stages of Enrollment in Cardiovascular Rehabilitation.

This quasi-experimental study investigated the preliminary effects of a structured education intervention in a pooled sample of cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) patients in Brazil. Recently enrolled (RE) and long-term enrolled (LTE) patients attended 12 weekly education sessions in addition to three weekly exercise sessions. Patients completed surveys assessing disease-related knowledge, physical activity, food intake, self-efficacy, and health literacy. Functional capacity was assessed by the 6-minutes walking test. All outcomes were assessed at pre-,post-CR, and 6-months follow-up. Bonferroni correction was applied. In total, 69 (69.7%) patients completed all three assessments. There were significant improvements in knowledge pre-to post-test in both subgroups (p < 0.001), and in functional capacity (p ≤ 0.001) and food intake (p ≤ 0.001) pre-to post-test in the RE subgroup. Post-test knowledge was correlated to physical activity, functional capacity and health literacy. This preliminary study suggests the importance of structured education for CR patients. A larger study using a randomized controlled design is needed to determine efficacy.

Aerobic Exercise Prescription in Cardiac Rehabilitation Based on Heart Rate from Talk Test Stages and 6-Minute Walk Test. / Prescrição de Exercício Aeróbio na Reabilitação Cardíaca Baseada na Frequência Cardíaca dos Estágios do Teste da Fala e do Teste de Caminhada de 6 Minutos.

BACKGROUND: Although the Talk Test (TT) is a reliable and low-cost test, its use for aerobic exercise prescription is still limited. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the heart rate (HR) in the stages of the TT and at the peak of the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) as a parameter to prescribe aerobic exercise compared with HR at the first and second ventilatory thresholds (VT1 and VT2) of cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET). METHODS: Individuals with cardiovascular disease attended three assessment days: 1) anamnesis and CPET; 2) 6MWT; and 3) TT. One-way repeated measures ANOVA or Friedman's test were used to compare HR at VT1 and VT2 with HR at TT stages: last positive (TT+), first equivocal (TT±), and negative (TT-), and at the peak of the 6MWT. Pearson's or Spearman's test assessed correlations between HR at VTs, TT stages, and 6MWT. Statistical significance was set at 5%. RESULTS: The study included 22 cardiac patients (13 men, 61 ± 8 years). HR at VT1 was similar to HR at TT+ (p = 0.987) and TT± (p = 0.154), and moderately correlated with TT+ (r = 0.479, p = 0.024). HR at VT2 was similar to TT- (p = 0.383), with a strong correlation (r = 0.757, p < 0.001). HR at the peak of the 6MWT was significantly different from HR at TT+, TT±, and VT1 (p = 0.001, p = 0.005, and p < 0.001, respectively) but similar to TT- (p = 0.68). CONCLUSIONS: HR at TT+ and TT- reflect HR at VT1 and VT2, respectively, differently from 6MWT, which was similar only to VT2. TT may be an objective test to assist aerobic exercise prescription in cardiac rehabilitation.

FUNDAMENTO: Embora o Teste da Fala (TF) seja um teste confiável e de baixo custo, seu uso para prescrição de exercício aeróbio ainda é limitado. OBJETIVO: Analisar a frequência cardíaca (FC) dos estágios do TF e no pico do teste de caminhada de 6 minutos (TC6min) como parâmetro para a prescrição de exercício aeróbio comparando com a FC no primeiro e segundo limiares ventilatórios (LV1 e LV2) do teste cardiopulmonar de exercício (TCPE). MÉTODOS: Pacientes com doença cardiovascular compareceram a 3 dias de avaliação: 1) anamnese e TCPE; 2) TC6min; e 3) TF. Foram usados ANOVA unidirecional de medidas repetidas ou teste de Friedman para comparar a FC no LV1 e LV2 com a FC nos estágios do TF: último positivo (TF+), primeiro equívoco (TF±) e negativo (TF−) e no pico do TC6min. O teste de Pearson ou Spearman avaliou se há correlação entre FC em LVs, estágios do TF e TC6min. A significância estatística foi fixada em 5%. RESULTADOS: O estudo incluiu 22 pacientes cardíacos (13 homens, 61 ± 8 anos). A FC no LV1 foi semelhante à FC no TF+ (p = 0,987) e TF± (p = 0,154), e moderadamente correlacionada com o TF+ (r = 0,479, p = 0,024). A FC no LV2 foi semelhante ao TF− (p = 0,383), com forte correlação (r = 0,757, p < 0,001). A FC no pico do TC6min foi significativamente diferente da FC no TF+, TF± e LV1 (p = 0,001, p = 0,005 e p < 0,001, respectivamente), mas semelhante ao TF− (p = 0,68). CONCLUSÕES: A FC no TF+ e TF− reflete a FC no LV1 e LV2, respectivamente, diferentemente do TC6min, que foi semelhante apenas ao LV2. O TF pode ser um teste objetivo para auxiliar a prescrição de exercício aeróbio na reabilitação cardíaca.

Feasibility of a Virtual Educational Programme for Behaviour Change in Cardiac Patients from a Low-Resource Setting.

Patient education is an integral part of recovery from a critical cardiac life event and a core component of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programmes. This study addressed the feasibility of a virtual educational programme for behaviour change in CR patients from a low-resource setting in Brazil. Cardiac patients from a CR programme closed due to the pandemic received a 12-week virtual educational intervention (WhatsApp messages and bi-weekly calls from healthcare providers). Acceptability, demand, implementation, practicality, and limited efficacy were tested. Overall, 34 patients and 8 healthcare providers agreed to participate. The intervention was considered practical and acceptable by the participants, who reported a satisfaction median of 9.0 (7.4-10.0)/10 (patients) and 9.8 (9.6-10.0)/10 (providers). The main difficulties in carrying out the intervention activities were related to technology, motivation to self-learning, and a lack of in-person orientation. All the patients reported that the information included in the intervention was aligned with their information needs. The intervention was associated with changes in exercise self-efficacy, sleep quality, depressive symptoms, and performance of high-intensity physical activity. In conclusion, the intervention was considered feasible to educate cardiac patients from a low-resource setting. It should be replicated and expanded to support patients that face barriers to onsite CR participation. Challenges related to technology and self-learning should be addressed.

The performance of physiotherapeutic conducts in oncology patients interned in a pediatric intensive care unit: A systematic review.

Objective: The intervention of physical therapy in pediatric oncology is currently transmuting from a view based on the restriction of physical stress to an approach that advocates the practice of cardiorespiratory and motor interventions that provide a better prognosis for the patient. The objective of this study is to carry out a systematic review and to identify studies that address the performance of physical therapeutic practices in pediatric cancer patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU). Methods: The stage of identification and selection of articles were carried out according to what was recommended by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analyzes, on PubMed, Medline, and Scopus platforms, based on the PICO acronym, and were classified by the PeDRO quality scale. Results: A total of 19,820 articles were found and six were acceptable according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria of the study, accounting for a total of 634 patients evaluated in the respective study. Conclusion: There is a scarcity of studies that show the reality of physical therapy practice in pediatric and neonatal ICU, with a focus on cancer patients. Most of the articles found emphasize the physiotherapeutic approach in the management of ventilation in these patients. Within this context, they show positive outcomes with the highest number of discharges, reduced mortality, increased survival, and treatment of respiratory failure. In addition, the application of non-invasive ventilation modalities proved to be more prevalent and important, both in the variables mentioned above and in the prevention of complications, such as a lower rate of patients undergoing orotracheal intubation.

Perceptions of Cardiac Rehabilitation Participants Regarding their Health Behaviors and Information Needs during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Brazil. / Percepções dos Participantes de Reabilitação Cardíaca sobre seus Comportamentos em Saúde e Necessidades de Informação durante a Pandemia COVID-19 no Brasil.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 has impacted how people receive health care for many conditions, including cardiovascular diseases. OBJECTIVES: To examine perceptions of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) participants regarding their health behaviors and information needs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, a 27-item questionnaire, developed by the investigators, was administered online to participants from two CR programs. Questions included health literacy (HL; using the Brief Health Literacy Screening Tool), technology use, perceptions before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, and information needs. Pearson correlation coefficients, paired t-tests, and ANOVA were used as appropriate. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant for all tests. RESULTS: Overall, 159 (25.5%) CR participants answered the questionnaire. Of these, 89.9% had limited or marginal HL and 96.2% reported having internet access at home. Patients are mainly concerned about their family's health and their own, as well as how the coronavirus is dangerous to their health and how it has changed their lifestyle. Participants perceived that the quality of their health behaviors significantly decreased during the pandemic. The pandemic also changed information needs of CR participants as new needs emerged, such as the control of anxiety levels, staying motivated to live healthily during a pandemic, and how COVID-19 can impact their health condition. Participants with adequate HL significantly perceived the severity of the disease and having access to information significantly more than those with limited HL. CONCLUSIONS: Our results highlighted the impact of the pandemic on CR participants' perceptions regarding their health behaviors and information needs, which can be influenced by HL levels.

FUNDAMENTO: A COVID-19 afetou como as pessoas recebem atendimento de saúde para várias doenças, inclusive doenças cardiovasculares. OBJETIVOS: Examinar as percepções dos participantes de reabilitação cardíaca (RC) sobre seus comportamentos em saúde e necessidades de informação durante a pandemia da COVID-19 no Brasil. MÉTODOS: Neste estudo transversal, um questionário de 27 itens elaborado pelos investigadores foi administrado online a participantes de dois programas de RC. As perguntas incluíam letramento em saúde (LS; usando a Brief Health Literacy Screening Tool - Breve ferramenta de triagem de letramento em saúde), uso de tecnologia, percepções antes e durante a pandemia da COVID-19, e necessidades de informações. Foram usados coeficiente de correlação de Pearson, testes t pareados e ANOVA, conforme apropriado. Um p <0,05 foi considerado estatisticamente significativo para todos os testes. RESULTADOS: No total, 159 (25,5%) participantes de RC responderam ao questionário. Desses, 89,9% tinham LS limitado ou marginal, e 96,2% relataram ter acesso à internet de casa. Os pacientes se preocupam principalmente com a saúde de sua família e própria, além de como o coronavírus é perigoso para sua saúde e como mudou seu estilo de vida. Os participantes perceberam que a qualidade de seus comportamentos em saúde diminuiu significativamente durante a pandemia. A pandemia também mudou as necessidades de informações dos participantes de RC, já que novas necessidades surgiram, tais como, controle de níveis de ansiedade, manter a motivação para levar uma vida saudável durante a pandemia, e como a COVID-19 pode afetar sua condição de saúde. Participantes com LS adequado perceberam significativamente a gravidade da doença e tinham significativamente mais acesso a informações do que os pacientes com LS limitado. CONCLUSÕES: Nossos resultados destacaram o impacto da pandemia nas percepções dos participantes de RC em relação a seus comportamentos em saúde e necessidades de informação, que podem ser influenciados pelos níveis de LS.

Level of physical activity and sedentary behavior in children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer: A systematic review.

Objective: The objective of the study was to examine already published evidence on the level of physical activity and sedentary behavior in children during and after treatment for cancer. And, thusly to verify if patients are following the recommendations of the World Health Organization, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and American College of Sports Medicine. Methods: The platforms for searches were EBSCO, Web of Science and PubMed. The keywords used were physical activity, sedentary behavior, children or adolescents with cancer. Results: Found 4572 articles. 16 satisfied the eligibility criteria. The most children of whom had a low level of physical activity and a high level of sedentary behavior. Conclusions: We conclude that this population showed an increase in sedentary behavior. And, it was also observed that does not have specific recommendations for this population. Already, the recommendations used for the healthy children and for chronic patients are not ideal for this population. Therefore, it is demonstrated that specific recommendations must be created for this population.

Taurine supplementation decreases oxidative stress in skeletal muscle after eccentric exercise.

Infrequent exercise, typically involving eccentric actions, has been shown to cause oxidative stress and to damage muscle tissue. High taurine levels are present in skeletal muscle and may play a role in cellular defences against free radical-mediated damage. This study investigates the effects of taurine supplementation on oxidative stress biomarkers after eccentric exercise (EE). Twenty-four male rats were divided into the following groups (n = 6): control; EE; EE plus taurine (EE + Taurine); EE plus saline (EE + Saline). Taurine was administered as a 1-ml 300 mg kg(-1) per body weight (BW) day(-1) solution in water by gavage, for 15 consecutive days. Starting on the 14th day of supplementation, the animals were submitted to one 90-min downhill run session and constant velocity of 1·0 km h(-1) . Forty-eight hours after the exercise session, the animals were killed and the quadriceps muscles were surgically removed. Production of superoxide anion, creatine kinase (CK) levels, lipoperoxidation, carbonylation, total thiol content and antioxidant enzyme were analysed. Taurine supplementation was found to decrease superoxide radical production, CK, lipoperoxidation and carbonylation levels and increased total thiol content in skeletal muscle, but it did not affect antioxidant enzyme activity after EE. The present study suggests that taurine affects skeletal muscle contraction by decreasing oxidative stress, in association with decreased superoxide radical production.

Oxidative stress and inflammatory parameters after an Ironman race.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to investigate oxidative stress markers and inflammatory response in triathletes after an Ironman race (IR). DESIGN: Descriptive research. PARTICIPANTS: Eighteen well-trained male triathletes (mean age, 34.7 +/- 2.15 years; weight, 69.3 +/- 1.9 kg; height, 1.81 +/- 0.58 cm) participated in the study. SETTING: Ironman Triathlon (3.8-km swim, 180-km cycle, 42.2-km run). Mean environmental conditions ranged from 20 to 25 degrees C and from 79% to 85% relative humidity. INTERVENTIONS: None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Before the race and up to 20 minutes after completing the full race, the weights and heights of volunteers were measured and a 10 mL blood sample was drawn from an antecubital vein. Aliquots of washed/lysed red blood cells and plasma/serum samples were stored at -80 degrees C. Lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, and cytokines levels [tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, and IL-1ra] were determined. RESULTS: After the IR, the results showed a significant increase in TBARS levels (prerace = 1.15 +/- 0.11; postrace = 1.98 +/- 0.27), lipid hydroperoxide content (prerace = 0.75 +/- 0.03; postrace = 1.46 +/- 0.18), protein carbonylation (prerace = 0.67 +/- 0.12; postrace = 2 0.15 +/- 0.60), superoxide dismutase (prerace = 2.67 +/- 0.62; postrace = 3.97 +/- 1.48), and catalase (prerace = 1.48 +/- 0.18; postrace = 2.84 +/- 0.39). TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-10 were not detected at basal conditions, but all markers were significantly increased after the IR (TNF-alpha: prerace = ND and postrace = 67.47 +/- 10.34; IL-6: prerace = ND and postrace = 55.41 +/- 3.45; IL-10: prerace = ND and postrace = 122.53 +/- 9.69; IL-1ra: prerace = 127.79 +/- 25.65 and postrace = 259.51 +/- 32.9). CONCLUSIONS: An Ironman race provokes significant alterations in oxidative stress and inflammatory parameters. Thus, more studies with other markers and different designs are needed to elucidate the cellular alterations induced by an IR.

Information about secondary prevention in coronary patients: a comparison between Italian and Brazilian application of MICRO-Q questionnaire.

BACKGROUND: The MICRO-Q (Maugerl CaRdiac preventiOn Questionnaire) is a self-administered questionnaire addressed to the evaluation of information regarding secondary prevention in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). The aim of this study was to compare the results from Italian and Brazilian application of MICRO-Q. METHODS: the instrument was administered to 500 coronary patients (250 Italian and 250 Brazilian), 117 female and 383 male, aged on average 61.16 years (SD = 9.74; range: 33-86), participants of cardiac rehabilitation programs. The Italian MICRO-Q has 26 items, 18 true statements and 8 false, with responses true, false and 'don't know', with three separate scores: correct, uncorrect and uncertain. The Brazilian MICRO-Q has 25 items, 18 true statements and 7 false, with the same responses and scores. To verify and compare results we used Independent-Sample T Test, ANOVA and Bonferroni Post-hoc. RESULTS: The analysis of mean total scores of Italian and Brazilian applications showed statistically significant differences for correct answers (p < 0.001) and for 'don't know' answers (p < 0.001). 18 statements had significant (p < 0.005) differences between applications in the two countries. CONCLUSION: Despite differences between Italy and Brazil, the analysis of MICRO-Q applications showed a similar mean score percent of correct answers, indicating enough knowledge about secondary prevention of CHD.

Cross-cultural adaptation and measurement properties of the Brazilian-Portuguese version of the Cincinnati Knee Rating System.

Purpose: To translate, culturally adapt, evaluate the measurement properties, and propose a new scoring system of the Cincinnati Knee Rating System for the Brazilian population.Materials and Methods: One hundred fifty people with anterior cruciate ligament injury completed Cincinnati Knee Rating System and Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale on three occasions: 1-week prior to surgery, 90-days after and 95-days after reconstruction. The measurement properties of the Brazilian-Portuguese Cincinnati Knee Rating System, internal consistency, construct validity, reproducibility, ceiling and floor effect and responsiveness, were tested.Results: Using the original scoring system (multiple scores), the internal consistency (Cronbach's α) varied between 0.54-0.79 (if item deleted = 0.07-0.73); the construct validity (Pearson's r) varied between 0.19-0.82 (related to Lysholm); the reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient) varied between 0.96-0.99; the standard error of measurement varied between 0.2-1.3 points; the minimum detectable change varied between 0.4-3.5 points; no ceiling or floor effect was detected, and responsiveness (effect size) varied between -0.3-2.7. Using the new proposed scoring system (single score), Cronbach's α was 0.78 (if item deleted = 0.65-0.71); the Pearson's r was 0.79 (related to Lysholm); the intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.99; the standard error of measurement was 0.5 points, the minimum detectable change was 1.3 points; no ceiling or floor effect was detected, and effect size was 1.4.Conclusions: The Brazilian-Portuguese Cincinnati Knee Rating System has adequate property measurement and can be used in a Brazilian population. The new proposed scoring system is appropriate.Implications for rehabilitationThe Brazilian-Portuguese Cincinnati Knee Rating System is a valid and reliable instrument which can identify consistent clinical changes over the time.The Brazilian-Portuguese Cincinnati Knee Rating System can be used to evaluate and to follow-up a Brazilian population with anterior cruciate ligament injuries and postoperative reconstruction.The new proposed score for Cincinnati Knee Rating System is appropriate and did not compromise the quality of the measurement properties.The new scoring system generates a unique score, creating a potentially simpler and faster clinical understanding of the patient's condition.

Questionnaires for knee instability assessment in people with anterior cruciate ligament injury: a systematic review of original questionnaires and their translated versions.

Purpose: To verify the quality of questionnaires/scales regarding knee instability caused by anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) insufficiency and their translated versions.Materials and methods: Searches were conducted on Web of Science, Pubmed, Medline, Cinahl, and SportDiscuss. The COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of Health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) scale was used to assess the article's quality; and the measurement properties of each questionnaire/scale were also analysed.Results: Searches identified 7703 studies and 29 were included in this review. Nine were articles reporting the original development of a questionnaire/scale and 20 were translations. The original questionnaires/scales were written in English or French and were translated into Brazilian Portuguese, Portuguese, Dutch, Turkish, German, Korean, Italian, Arabic, Polish, French, and Chinese. The questionnaires/scales with best overall quality were the Cincinatti Knee Rating System, the International Knee Documentation Committee - Subjective Knee Form and the PPLP. The International Knee Documentation Committee had positive results for internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha 0.89-0.92); for reliability and agreement (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) ranging from 0.88 to 0.99); and for construct validity (Pearson's r ranged from 0.1 to 0.85).Conclusions: The International Knee Documentation Committee had the largest number of translated versions and it was considered the best instrument assessed. Furthermore, The International Knee Documentation Committee was considered to be easy to apply, short and accessible, thus it is the choice of several clinicians and researchers.Implications for rehabilitationKnee instability is one of the most important factors to be evaluated during rehabilitation of people with anterior cruciate ligament injury in both surgical and non-surgical approach.The use of questionnaires may provide a better overall functionality assessment of people with knee instability from ACL injury.To choose the most appropriate questionnaire, clinicians should consider their needs and should consider validated questionnaires linked with adequate psychometric properties which guarantee the original characteristics of a questionnaire and also guarantee reliable results.

Preferred exercise and mental health of the patients with fibromyalgia syndrome.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Preferred exercise may be beneficial for the mental health of patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS).This study aimed to investigate the effects of preferred exercise on the quality of life (Qol), depression, and mood states of the patients with FMS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was a nonrandomized controlled trial. The patients with FMS were divided into an experimental group (EG; n = 22) and a control group (CG; n = 14). The patients in the EG performed their preferred exercise (resistance, walking, or stretching) for 12 weeks. CG went to a waiting list. Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory, and Brunel Mood Scale were used to evaluate the outcomes. RESULTS: The EG exhibited a decrease in the total impact of FMS on the Qol, depression, tension, and mental confusion (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Preferred exercises reduced the impact of FMS on the Qol, depression, and mental confusion of patients with FMS.

Translation and cultural adaptation of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Lung Cancer Module for quality of life assessment in patients with lung cancer in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To translate the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) 29-item Quality of Life Questionnaire-Lung Cancer Module (QLQ-LC29, developed for the assessment of quality of life in patients with lung cancer) to Portuguese, conducting a pilot study of the Portuguese-language version and adapting it for use in Brazil. METHODS: For the translation, cultural adaptation, and pilot testing of the QLQ-LC29, we followed the guidelines established by the EORTC. The translation (English → Portuguese) and back-translation (Portuguese → English) were both carried out by translators, working independently, who were native speakers of one language and fluent in the other. After review, a draft version was created for pilot testing in lung cancer patients in Brazil. RESULTS: A total of 15 patients diagnosed with lung cancer completed the Portuguese-language version of the questionnaire. At the end of the process, we conducted a structured interview to identify any patient difficulty in understanding any of the questions. The final versions were sent to the EORTC and were approved. CONCLUSIONS: The Portuguese-language version of the EORTC QLQ-LC29 appears to be a useful, important, reliable questionnaire that is a valid tool for assessing quality of life in patients with lung cancer in Brazil.

Validation of a Scale to Assess Patients' Comprehension of Frequently Used Cardiology Terminology: The Cardiac TERM Scale in Brazilian Portuguese.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to psychometrically validate the translation of a questionnaire on patient understanding of cardiology terminology (TERM) to Brazilian Portuguese. DESIGN: After piloting the translation and cross-cultural adaptation, the 16-item TERM questionnaire was psychometrically tested. METHODS: Internal and test-retest reliability, as well as validity, were assessed in 322 cardiac patients. FINDINGS: Internal (α = .88) and test-retest reliability (all weighted Kappa > 0.63) exceeded the minimum recommended standards. Criterion validity was supported by significant differences in mean scores by socioeconomic indicators (p < .01). Discriminant validity was supported in that cardiac rehabilitation participants had significantly higher TERM scores (p < .001). Participants did not correctly define any of the terms, and a floor effect was identified in all terms. CONCLUSIONS: The Cardiac TERM Scale was demonstrated to have good reliability and validity. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The scale can be used by healthcare professionals, such as nurses. Results can be used to inform patient education, which could in turn impact patient adherence to medical advice and hence outcomes.

Validation of the Brazilian Version of CADE-Q II to Assess Knowledge of Coronary Artery Disease Patients.

BACKGROUND: The Coronary Artery Disease Education Questionnaire (CADE-Q), an instrument aimed at assessing patients' knowledge about coronary artery disease (CAD), was originally developed and psychometrically validated in Brazil. It was later translated, cross-culturally adapted, and validated to English. Although both versions demonstrated good reliability and validity, new studies in the area have pointed out the need of implementing the CADE-Q with other components of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs, such as psychologic factors, which had not been considered in previous version and were added in the subsequent, adapted version. Thus, a second version of CADE-Q was developed in English, the CADE-Q II. OBJECTIVE: to translate, culturally adapt and psychometrically validate the CADE-Q II in Brazilian Portuguese. METHODS: After translation and review by a Committee of specialists in CR, a version in Brazilian Portuguese was generated and tested in 307 patients in CR. Test-retest reliability was assessed by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) in 49 patients; internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's alpha (α); and, criterion validity was assessed regarding patients' educational level and family income. The level of significance adopted for all tests was 5%. RESULTS: After the ICC analysis, 4 items were excluded. The questionnaire was considered internally consistent (α > 0.7). Associations were found between the mean total scores and the variables schooling (p < 0.001) and income (p < 0.001). Median total score was 53 (14) points corresponding to 65.4% of the total possible score. CONCLUSION: The Portuguese version of the CADE-Q II showed sufficient reliability, consistency and validity, supporting its use in future studies.

Prescrição de Exercício Aeróbio na Reabilitação Cardíaca Baseada na Frequência Cardíaca dos Estágios do Teste da Fala e do Teste de Caminhada de 6 Minutos / Aerobic Exercise Prescription in Cardiac Rehabilitation Based on Heart Rate from Talk Test Stages and 6-Minute Walk Test

Resumo Fundamento Embora o Teste da Fala (TF) seja um teste confiável e de baixo custo, seu uso para prescrição de exercício aeróbio ainda é limitado. Objetivo Analisar a frequência cardíaca (FC) dos estágios do TF e no pico do teste de caminhada de 6 minutos (TC6min) como parâmetro para a prescrição de exercício aeróbio comparando com a FC no primeiro e segundo limiares ventilatórios (LV1 e LV2) do teste cardiopulmonar de exercício (TCPE). Métodos Pacientes com doença cardiovascular compareceram a 3 dias de avaliação: 1) anamnese e TCPE; 2) TC6min; e 3) TF. Foram usados ANOVA unidirecional de medidas repetidas ou teste de Friedman para comparar a FC no LV1 e LV2 com a FC nos estágios do TF: último positivo (TF+), primeiro equívoco (TF±) e negativo (TF−) e no pico do TC6min. O teste de Pearson ou Spearman avaliou se há correlação entre FC em LVs, estágios do TF e TC6min. A significância estatística foi fixada em 5%. Resultados O estudo incluiu 22 pacientes cardíacos (13 homens, 61 ± 8 anos). A FC no LV1 foi semelhante à FC no TF+ (p = 0,987) e TF± (p = 0,154), e moderadamente correlacionada com o TF+ (r = 0,479, p = 0,024). A FC no LV2 foi semelhante ao TF− (p = 0,383), com forte correlação (r = 0,757, p < 0,001). A FC no pico do TC6min foi significativamente diferente da FC no TF+, TF± e LV1 (p = 0,001, p = 0,005 e p < 0,001, respectivamente), mas semelhante ao TF− (p = 0,68). Conclusões A FC no TF+ e TF− reflete a FC no LV1 e LV2, respectivamente, diferentemente do TC6min, que foi semelhante apenas ao LV2. O TF pode ser um teste objetivo para auxiliar a prescrição de exercício aeróbio na reabilitação cardíaca.

Abstract Background Although the Talk Test (TT) is a reliable and low-cost test, its use for aerobic exercise prescription is still limited. Objective To analyze the heart rate (HR) in the stages of the TT and at the peak of the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) as a parameter to prescribe aerobic exercise compared with HR at the first and second ventilatory thresholds (VT1 and VT2) of cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET). Methods Individuals with cardiovascular disease attended three assessment days: 1) anamnesis and CPET; 2) 6MWT; and 3) TT. One-way repeated measures ANOVA or Friedman's test were used to compare HR at VT1 and VT2 with HR at TT stages: last positive (TT+), first equivocal (TT±), and negative (TT−), and at the peak of the 6MWT. Pearson's or Spearman's test assessed correlations between HR at VTs, TT stages, and 6MWT. Statistical significance was set at 5%. Results The study included 22 cardiac patients (13 men, 61 ± 8 years). HR at VT1 was similar to HR at TT+ (p = 0.987) and TT± (p = 0.154), and moderately correlated with TT+ (r = 0.479, p = 0.024). HR at VT2 was similar to TT− (p = 0.383), with a strong correlation (r = 0.757, p < 0.001). HR at the peak of the 6MWT was significantly different from HR at TT+, TT±, and VT1 (p = 0.001, p = 0.005, and p < 0.001, respectively) but similar to TT− (p = 0.68). Conclusions HR at TT+ and TT− reflect HR at VT1 and VT2, respectively, differently from 6MWT, which was similar only to VT2. TT may be an objective test to assist aerobic exercise prescription in cardiac rehabilitation.

Physical activity of children with cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic: what were the most relevant studies published from August 2019 to July 2021? / Actividad física em niños con cáncer durante la covid-19: ¿cuáles fueron las publicaciones más relevantes entre agosto de 2019 y julio de 2021? / Atividade física de crianças com câncer durante a covid-19: o que foi publicado de mais relevante entre agosto de 2019 e julho de 2021?

ABSTRACT This study aims to investigate up-to-date scientific information about physical activity, COVID-19, and childhood cancer. This study is an integrative review. Research was conducted in the Science Direct database, using keywords in three different combinations. In total, 50 publications classified as the most relevant of each keyword combination were selected, 26 eligible publications were reached from August 2019 to July 2021, of which nine were duplicates. When exclusion criteria were applied, 11 complete studies were selected. The level of physical activity (PA) of children diagnosed with cancer or those who survived cancer is low. Changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic include the decrease in the level of PA and the increase in the use of technological devices. The minimum PA recommendations for this population vary but some evidence supports its importance and benefits in minimizing the adverse effects arising from cancer and from the performed medical treatment. Exercise-based interventions should be chosen and carried out considering the type of cancer and the stage of treatment the child is in due to the evidence of its effectiveness.

RESUMEN Este estudio tiene como objetivo investigar, en la base de datos ScienceDirect, la información científica actualizada sobre actividad física, COVID-19 y cáncer infantil, mediante una revisión integradora, en la cual se utilizaron las palabras clave en tres combinaciones diferentes. Se seleccionaron cincuenta publicaciones clasificadas como las más relevantes de cada combinación, y se alcanzaron 26 publicaciones elegibles en el periodo entre agosto de 2019 y julio de 2021, de las cuales nueve fueron textos duplicados. Al aplicar los criterios de exclusión, se seleccionaron 11 artículos completos. El nivel de actividad física (AF) de los niños diagnosticados de cáncer o supervivientes de cáncer es bajo, y entre los cambios provocados por la pandemia de la COVID-19 se encuentran la disminución del nivel de AF y el aumento en el uso de dispositivos tecnológicos. Las recomendaciones mínimas de AF para esta población varían entre sí, sin embargo, existe evidencia que respalda su importancia y los beneficios en la minimización de los efectos adversos derivados del propio cáncer y del tratamiento médico realizado. Las intervenciones basadas en ejercicios, para la cual ya existe evidencia de efectividad, deben elegirse y llevarse a cabo teniendo en cuenta el tipo de cáncer y la etapa de tratamiento en la que se encuentra el niño.

RESUMO O objetivo deste trabalho é investigar, na base de dados Science Direct, informações científicas sobre atividade física, covid-19 e câncer infantojuvenil, através de uma revisão integrativa, utilizando três combinações de palavras-chave. Cinquenta publicações mais relevantes de cada combinação de palavras-chave foram selecionadas, e chegou-se a 26 artigos elegíveis no período compreendido entre agosto de 2019 e julho de 2021, dos quais nove eram textos duplicados. Aplicando-se os critérios de exclusão, foram selecionados 11 estudos completos. Constatou-se que o nível de atividade física (AF) de crianças com câncer ou sobreviventes do câncer é baixo e que entre as mudanças causadas pela pandemia de covid-19 estão a diminuição do nível de AF e o aumento do uso de dispositivos tecnológicos. As recomendações mínimas de AF para essa população variam, entretanto há evidências que sustentam sua importância e seus benefícios ao minimizar os efeitos adversos oriundos do próprio câncer e do tratamento médico realizado. As intervenções baseadas em exercícios, para as quais já há evidência de eficácia, devem ser escolhidas e realizadas a partir do tipo de câncer e na fase do tratamento em que a criança está.

Detectable levels of eHSP72 in plasma are associated with physical activity and antioxidant enzyme activity levels in hypertensive subjects.

Previous studies reported that extracellular HSP72 (eHSP72) correlates with poor prognosis, markers of vascular dysfunction, and the severity of cardiovascular diseases, associated with a systemic oxidative and inflammatory profile. On the other hand, eHSP72 may represent immune-regulatory signaling that is related to exercise benefits, but the association between physical activity levels and eHSP72 levels is not established. Thus, since regular physical activity may avoid oxidative stress and inflammation, we investigate whether detectable levels of eHSP72 in plasma are associated with physical activity and antioxidant enzyme activity levels in hypertensive subjects. Physical activity levels of hypertensive subjects (n = 140) were measured by tri-axial movement sensor pedometer for 24 h during 5 consecutive days. One day after, blood was collected into heparinized tubes for oxidative stress analyses (catalase-CAT and superoxide dismutase-SOD activities and malondialdehyde levels) or in disodium EDTA tubes for eHSP72 assays. Thus, hypertensive subjects were classified as physically inactive (< 10,000 footsteps/day) or active (> than 10,000 footsteps/day) and according detectable or not detectable eHSP72 levels in plasma, performing the inactive/eHSP72-, active/eHSP72-, inactive/eHSP72+, and active/eHSP72+ groups. We found that detectable levels of eHSP72 in plasma were associated with physical activity levels and low oxidative stress profile (Higher CAT and SOD activities and low malondialdehyde levels). eHSP72 levels can be used as a biomarker of the amount of physical activity necessary to improve antioxidant defense and thus cardiovascular health in hypertensive subjects.

Development and Psychometric Validation of HIPER-Q to Assess Knowledge of Hypertensive Patients in Cardiac Rehabilitation.

BACKGROUND: The absence of instruments capable of measuring the level of knowledge of hypertensive patients in cardiac rehabilitation programs about their disease reflects the lack of specific recommendations for these patients. OBJECTIVE: To develop and validate a questionnaire to evaluate the knowledge of hypertensive patients in cardiac rehabilitation programs about their disease. METHODS: A total of 184 hypertensive patients (mean age 60.5 ± 10 years, 66.8% men) were evaluated. Reproducibility was assessed by calculation of the intraclass correlation coefficient using the test-retest method. Internal consistency was assessed by the Cronbach's alpha and the construct validity by the exploratory factorial analysis. RESULTS: The final version of the instrument had 17 questions organized in areas considered important for patient education. The instrument proposed showed a clarity index of 8.7 (0.25). The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.804 and the Cronbach's correlation coefficient was 0.648. Factor analysis revealed five factors associated with knowledge areas. Regarding the criterion validity, patients with higher education level and higher family income showed greater knowledge about hypertension. CONCLUSION: The instrument has a satisfactory clarity index and adequate validity, and can be used to evaluate the knowledge of hypertensive participants in cardiac rehabilitation programs.

Effects of N-acetylcysteine supplementation on cellular damage and oxidative stress indicators in volleyball athletes.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) supplementation on cellular damage and oxidative stress indicators in volleyball athletes. Twenty male volleyball athletes at national level performed a physical training session and were divided into 2 groups, which for 7 days took the placebo substance or NAC. After 7 days the athletes repeated the same training session. In both sessions, blood samples were collected 30 min before and immediately after the training session to measure cellular damage and oxidative stress markers. The main results show that, although higher concentrations of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase were observed in post-session 1 than those in postsession 2, the other markers showed an increase in antioxidant action after supplementation of NAC, once the effect of experimental conditions (P=0.030) were observed in: time effect (P<0.001) and interaction (P=0.019) for total glutathione; time effect (P<0.001) and interaction (P<0.001) for reduced glutathione; and time effect (P<0.001) for ferric-reducing antioxidant potential. The oxidant action indicated by the protein carbonyl was higher in the placebo group than in the NAC group (P=0.028), but a time effect (P<0.001) for the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances showed lower values in presession 1 than in presession 2. For the cellular damage markers, antagonistic results between markers were found. Based in the results, the supplementation of NAC during a short period was effective in reducing oxidant action and increasing antioxidant action. However, conclusive alterations in the responses of the cellular damage markers were not obtained.