Pulmonary Function as a Predictor of Frailty Syndrome in Community-Dwelling Older Adults.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Diminished pulmonary function is associated with negative health outcomes and pulmonary impairment, and can be associated with frailty. The objectives of this study were to compare pulmonary function between frail, prefrail, and nonfrail older adults; to verify the association between pulmonary function and frailty syndrome; and to establish cut-off points for pulmonary function variables for predicting frailty. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 379 community-dwelling older adults of both sexes. Spirometry was used to measure pulmonary function criteria (forced vital capacity, FVC; forced expiratory volume in 1 second, FEV 1 ; and FEV 1 /FVC ratio). The presence of frailty was evaluated with Fried's frailty phenotype. Statistical analysis included a multinomial logistic regression model. Pulmonary function cut-off points for discriminating frailty syndrome were established through analysis of the receiver operating characteristic curves. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The study participants were a median of 69.0 (64.0-74.0) years old, and 12.4% presented frailty while 58% presented prefrailty. Frail and prefrail older adults presented significantly lower median FVC and FEV 1 values-FVC = 1.89 L (1.45-2.31) and FEV 1 = 1.60 L (1.24-1.91); FVC = 2.07 L (1.62-2.67) and FEV 1 = 1.66 L (1.32-2.09), respectively-than nonfrail participants-FVC = 2.53 L (1.96-3.16) and FEV 1 = 2.01 L (1.54-2.43). The adjusted analysis indicated that FEV 1 (odds ratio [OR] = 0.63; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.39-0.99) and the FVC (OR = 0.68; 95% CI, 0.48-0.96) were inversely associated with prefrailty and that FVC (OR = 0.52; 95% CI, 0.29-0.94) was associated with frailty. Cut-off points for prefrailty (FVC ≤2.3 L and FEV 1 ≤1.86 L) and frailty (FVC ≤2.07 L and FEV 1 ≤1.76 L) were established. CONCLUSIONS: Pulmonary function was lower in frail and prefrail older adults than in their nonfrail peers. Frailty and prefrailty were inversely associated with pulmonary function. Cut-off points for FEV 1 and FVC for discriminating frailty were established and may allow pulmonary function to serve as an indicator of frailty in older adults.

Impaired pulmonary function is associated with dynapenia, but not with abdominal obesity and dynapenic abdominal obesity in older adults.

PURPOSE: No studies have previously analyzed the association between dynapenic abdominal obesity (DAO) and pulmonary function in older adults. The aim of this study was to analyze whether there is an association between pulmonary function and abdominal obesity, dynapenia, and DAO in community-dwelling older adults. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with community-dwelling older adults (n = 383) of Macapá, Amapá, Brazil. Pulmonary function variables were evaluated with spirometry; and DAO was evaluated with the combination of dynapenia and abdominal obesity. Cutoff points for handgrip strength, 26 kg force for men and 16 kg force for women, were used to detect dynapenia; and cutoff points of abdominal circumference of > 102 cm for men and > 88 cm for women were used to identify abdominal obesity. RESULTS: Most of the studied pulmonary function variables (obtained values and obtained versus predicted values) were associated with abdominal obesity, dynapenia, and DAO. However, in the adjusted model, there was an association of FVC (ß = - 0.163; p < 0.001), FEV1 (ß = - 0.119; p = 0.006), and PEF (ß = - 0.110; p = 0.017) only with dynapenia. CONCLUSIONS: Older adults with abdominal obesity, dynapenia, and DAO presented impaired pulmonary function when compared to those without these conditions. Most of the pulmonary function variables were associated with abdominal obesity, dynapenia, and DAO conditions. However, in the adjusted model, there was an association of reduced FVC, FEV1, and PEF values only with dynapenia.

Effects of Zero PEEP and < 1.0 FIO2 on SpO2 and PETCO2 During Open Endotracheal Suctioning.

BACKGROUND: Hyperoxygenation and hyperinflation, preferably with a mechanical ventilator, is the most commonly used technique to prevent the adverse effects of open endotracheal suctioning on arterial oxygenation and pulmonary volume. However, limited data are available on the effects of oxygen concentrations < 100% and PEEP with zero end-expiratory pressure (0 PEEP) to improve oxygenation and to maintain adequate ventilation during open endotracheal suctioning. The aim of this study was to analyze the behavior of [Formula: see text] and end-tidal CO2 pressure ([Formula: see text]) in open endotracheal suctioning using the 0 PEEP technique with baseline [Formula: see text] (0 PEEP baseline [Formula: see text]) and 0 PEEP + hyperoxygenation of 20% above the baseline value (0 PEEP [Formula: see text] + 0.20) in critically ill subjects receiving mechanical ventilation. METHODS: This was a prospective, randomized, single-blind crossover study, for which 48 subjects with various clinical and surgical conditions were selected; of these, 38 subjects completed the study. The subjects were randomized for 2 interventions: 0 PEEP baseline [Formula: see text] and 0 PEEP [Formula: see text] + 0.20 during the open endotracheal suctioning procedure. Oxygenation was assessed via oxygen saturation as measured with pulse oximetry ([Formula: see text]), and changes in lung were monitored via [Formula: see text] using volumetric capnography. RESULTS: In the intragroup analysis with 0 PEEP baseline [Formula: see text], there was no significant increase after open endotracheal suctioning in either [Formula: see text] (P = .63) or [Formula: see text] (P = .11). With 0 PEEP [Formula: see text] + 0.20, there was a significant increase in [Formula: see text] (P < .001), with no significant changes in [Formula: see text] (P = .55). In the intergroup comparisons, there was a significant increase compared to the basal values only with the 0 PEEP + 0.20 method at 1 min after hyperoxygenation (P < .001), post-immediately (P < .001), at 1 min after (P < .001), and at 2 min after open endotracheal suctioning (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: The appropriate indication of the hyperinflation strategy via mechanical ventilation using 0 PEEP with or without hyperoxygenation proved to be efficient to maintain [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] levels. These results suggest that the technique can minimize the loss of lung volume due to open endotracheal suctioning. (ClinicalTrials.gov registration NCT02440919).

Acute Effects of the 6-Minute Pegboard and Ring Test in COPD.

BACKGROUND: There are few reports in the literature supporting the understanding of the physiological mechanisms of intolerance in patients with COPD to perform unsupported upper limb activities. The aims of this study were to quantify the electrical activity and oxygenation of inspiratory and upper limb muscles, and to investigate whether electromyographic manifestations of muscle fatigue are related to upper limb function as assessed by the 6-min pegboard and ring test (6PBRT) in subjects with COPD and in healthy subjects. METHODS: Thirty subjects with COPD (FEV1 42.1 ± 16.4% predicted; 68.0 ± 7.6 y old) comprised the COPD group, and 34 healthy subjects (66.8 ± 8.0 y old) comprised the control group. Both groups were assessed for body composition with dual-energy radiograph absorptiometry and spirometry. The 6PBRT was performed with simultaneous assessment of electromyography, near-infrared spectroscopy, and gas analyses (expiratory minute volume). RESULTS: Differences were observed between groups for performance (number of rings) in the 6PBRT, with the COPD group achieving lower values than the control group (P < .001). The ventilatory demand (expiratory minute volume/maximum voluntary ventilation) and root mean square amplitude of the sternocleidomastoid muscle were higher in the COPD group than in the control group (P < .04). Lower values for oxyhemoglobin and total hemoglobin were found in intercostal muscles of the COPD group compared to the control group. The root mean square amplitude of the intercostal muscles was lower in the COPD group, while it was similar between groups for anterior deltoid and trapezius muscles. Median frequency of anterior deltoid muscles presented a decreased in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that the 6PBRT was performed at a higher electrical activity in the accessory inspiratory muscles, such as the sternocleidomastoid muscle, and a lower oxygenation profile in the intercostal muscles in subjects with COPD compared with healthy controls, but without muscle fatigue signs. These findings suggest that the higher ventilatory demand presented in subjects with COPD could have contributed to the worse performance in this group without signals of peripheral muscle limitation.

Reproducibility and Validity of the 6-Minute Stationary Walk Test Associated With Virtual Reality in Subjects With COPD.

BACKGROUND: The importance of evaluating the functional capacity of patients with COPD is well known, and there is a wide range of tests described in the literature. The 6-min stationary walk test associated with virtual reality (STVR-6) was created in light of the current limitations of evaluation tests. It does not require a large physical space or sophisticated equipment, and it is not costly; furthermore, it can be performed by a single rater. The objective of this study was to evaluate intra- and inter-rater reproducibility and to verify the criterion validity of the STVR-6. METHODS: 50 subjects with COPD were evaluated over the course of 3 d. The execution order of the tests was randomized; the STVR-6 was performed over 2 d, and the 6-min walk test was performed in 1 d. The 6-min walk distance variables and number of steps in the STVR-6 were obtained with a gas analysis performed for both tests. RESULTS: Relative reproducibility was found for intraclass correlation coefficient values (0.57-0.94, P < .001) between the number of steps and the highest value of oxygen consumption during the test (V̇O2 peak), intra- and inter-rater. In terms of absolute reproducibility, the standard error of measurement and minimum detectable difference values were verified. In the Bland-Altman analysis, the intra- and inter-rater mean difference values were 21 and 17 steps and 0.002 and 0.242 mL/min/kg, respectively. Pearson correlation values were 0.57-0.75 (P < .001) between the number of steps and V̇O2 peak. CONCLUSIONS: STVR-6 had excellent intra-rater reproducibility and excellent to good inter-rater reproducibility, but the high values of error measures demonstrated that there is a learning effect and a need to perform at least 2 tests. In addition, there was high to moderate correlation between the STVR-6 and the 6-min walk test. Therefore, the STVR-6 proved to be reproducible and valid for evaluating the functional capacity of subjects with COPD.

Surface electromyography in inspiratory muscles in adults and elderly individuals: A systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Electromyography (EMG) helps to evaluate disorders and pulmonary behavior, as impairments in respiratory muscle function are associated with the development of diseases. There is a wide range of methods and protocols used to record and analyze EMG obtained from respiratory muscles, demonstrating a lack of standardization. OBJECTIVE: To identify the most common procedures used to record surface EMG (sEMG) of inspiratory muscles in adults and elderly individuals through a systematic review (primary), and to evaluate the quality of the report presented by the studies (secondary). METHOD: Studies published from January 1995 until June 2018 were searched for in the Web of Science, PubMed, LILACS, EBSCO and Embase databases. Only studies evaluating sEMG of inspiratory muscles were included. RESULTS: The electronic search retrieved a total of 6697 titles and 92 of them were included. A great variability on the methods applied to both recording and processing/analyzing data was found. Therefore, the synthesis of practical/clinical evidence to support immediate recommendations was impaired. In general, the descriptions presented by the studies are poor. CONCLUSION: The most common procedures used for sEMG were identified. Methodological studies with objective comparisons were fundamental for improving standardization, given the impossibility of recommendations from this review.

Different physical therapy interventions on daily physical activities in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

AIM: To verify the outcome of different physical therapy interventions in activities of daily living of individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). METHODS: Twenty-two COPD individuals were randomly divided into three groups: the Lower Limb Training Group (LLTG, n=8) performed treadmill exercise, Upper Limb Training Group (ULTG, n=8) performed upper limb (UL) training, and Control Group (CG, n=6) underwent bronchial hygiene therapy for 6 weeks, three times per week. The following were simulated in the activities of the daily living test: blackboard erasing, weight lifting exercise, stair climbing and treadmill walking. The duration of these tasks was 5 min of blackboard erasing and weight lifting, and 6 min of stair climbing and treadmill walking. RESULTS: Intragroup analysis presented a significant post-treatment ventilatory demand (V(E)/MVV) decrease for the LLTG during basal conditions and walking, and significant decrease during blackboard erasing and walking for the ULTG, with similar metabolic demand (VO(2)/VO(2)max) for both groups. Dyspnoea decreased significantly in the LLTG during post-treatment walking and increased for CG. The number of stairs climbed decreased significantly for the CG and increased for LLTG and ULTG post treatment, along with the walked distance for LLTG. The intergroup analysis presented significant differences in post-treatment dyspnoea with greater values observed for the CG during walking. CONCLUSION: The different protocols utilized promoted benefits towards physical exercise tolerance, particularly in the ULTG that presented better performance in sustained UL tasks, which may suggest better conditioning and coordination of the muscles involved in UL elevation.

Cardiorespiratory repercussions according to the abdominal circumference measurement of men with obstructive respiratory disorder submitted to respiratory physiotherapy.

PURPOSE: To examine the effect of respiratory physiotherapy among men with obstructive respiratory disorder, in relation to abdominal circumference (AC). METHODS: Quasi-experimental study including 26 men split into two groups according to AC(cm): 1) < 102 (ACrisk-free); and 2) ≥ 102 (ACrisk). Heart rate variability (HRV), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), oxygen saturation (SpO2), FEV1/FVC, slow vital capacity (SVC), inspiratory capacity (IC), maximal inspiratory pressure (PImax), thoracoabdominal amplitude (AI) were measured: before (M1); 5 min after the physiotherapy (i.e. breathing exercises for airway clearance and active kinesiotherapy) (M2); and at follow-up, 30 min after physiotherapy (M3). RESULTS: The groups differed in age, body mass index and body fat %. At M2 IC was different between groups (ACrisk-free< ACrisk). There was an increase in HRV indexes, PImax, SpO2, axillary AI, FEV1/FVC, and reduction in HR for ACrisk-free. There was a decrease in AI and an increase in DBP for ACrisk. CONCLUSION: In men with obstructive respiratory disorder, increased AC measurement limited the thoracoabdominal expansibility and induced a rise of the DBP. Respiratory physiotherapy promotes an increase of cardiac modulation and inspiratory capacity for men with obstructive respiratory disorder.

Reproducibility of inspiratory muscle endurance testing using PowerBreathe for COPD patients.

BACKGROUND: Assessing the strength and endurance of respiratory muscles is fundamental for characterizing respiratory muscle dysfunction. Although a variety of tests are used to evaluate respiratory muscle endurance, not all of them are applicable in clinical practice. Assessments can be made using a practical device called PowerBreathe®, but its reproducibility has not been tested in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. AIM: To verify the reproducibility of the inspiratory muscle endurance test using a manometer and PowerBreathe® in COPD patients. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was used. In total, 19 moderate-severe COPD patients, male and female, aged 50 to 80 years took part in the research. This evaluation consisted of 2 tests: an incremental test and a constant one held on the same day and repeated after 48 hr. The incremental test started with 10-cm H2 O, adding 10-cm H2 O every 2 min and taking 1 min of rest before increasing the load. The highest load that could be sustained for at least 1 min was considered the sustained maximum inspiratory pressure (SMIP) value. The constant test was performed at an intensity of 80% of the SMIP and the maximum time limit was 30 min. RESULTS: In the incremental test, there was a significant increase in the SMIP compared to the test-retest (61 ± 24/64.7 ± 23.8; p = .015); the value of the relative reproducibility was 0.96, the standard error of the absolute measurement was 4.7 (95% confidence interval 9.2), and the minimum detectable difference was 10.9. In the Bland-Altman analysis, the mean error was 4.2 (confidence interval -7.6 to 16.1). The constant test was not reproducible. CONCLUSION: It was observed that the incremental test was reproducible to evaluate inspiratory muscle endurance in COPD patients. Furthermore, 2 tests needed to be carried out due to the learning effect.

Comparing the Effects of Two Different Levels of Hyperoxygenation on Gas Exchange During Open Endotracheal Suctioning: A Randomized Crossover Study.

BACKGROUND: Endotracheal suctioning is required for mechanically ventilated patients to maintain a patent airway. Studies show that open endotracheal suctioning affects respiratory mechanics and gas exchange. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of hyperoxygenation with FIO2 + 0.20 above baseline and hyperoxygenation with FIO2 1.0 in preventing hypoxemia, and to determine the impact of open endotracheal suctioning on the pulmonary ventilation of critical subjects receiving mechanical ventilatory support. METHODS: This prospective randomized crossover study was conducted in the ICU. Sixty-eight mechanically ventilated subjects with FIO2 ≤ 0.6 and requiring endotracheal suctioning were included in this study. Open endotracheal suctioning was performed using 2 different intervention sequences: hyperoxygenation of 0.20 above baseline FIO2 (FIO2 + 0.20) and 1.0 hyperoxygenation (FIO2 1.0). Oxygenation was assessed via oxygen saturation as measured by pulse oximetry (SpO2 ), and changes in lung ventilation were measured via alveolar gas volume (V̇A), alveolar minute volume (V̇A min), carbon dioxide (CO2) production (V̇CO2 ), mixed exhaled partial pressure of CO2 (P̄ECO2 ), exhaled tidal CO2 volume (VTCO2), end-tidal CO2 (PETCO2 ), anatomical dead space to tidal volume ratio (VD/VT), and anatomical dead space volume of each breath (VD) using volumetric capnography, and breathing frequency (f), heart rate, and mean arterial pressure using a multiparameter monitor. RESULTS: SpO2 levels were significantly higher within interventions (FIO2 + 0.20 and 1.0) 1 min before and after suction. Also, there was a significant increase in PETCO2 , P̄ECO2 , heart rate, and mean arterial pressure immediately after the procedure compared with baseline, and in VTCO2, only for FIO2 + 0.20. Baseline values were not found to be significantly different between the groups in case of any dependent variable. CONCLUSIONS: In mechanically ventilated adult subjects, hyperoxygenation with FIO2 + 0.20 above baseline prevents hypoxemia. Also, transient changes in pulmonary ventilation with open circuit suctioning were confirmed by volumetric capnography analysis. (Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02440919).

Effects of Inspiratory Muscle Training and Calisthenics-and-Breathing Exercises in COPD With and Without Respiratory Muscle Weakness.

BACKGROUND: Patients with COPD may experience respiratory muscle weakness. Two therapeutic approaches to the respiratory muscles are inspiratory muscle training and calisthenics-and-breathing exercises. The aims of the study are to compare the effects of inspiratory muscle training and calisthenics-and-breathing exercises associated with physical training in subjects with COPD as an additional benefit of strength and endurance of the inspiratory muscles, thoracoabdominal mobility, physical exercise capacity, and reduction in dyspnea on exertion. In addition, these gains were compared between subjects with and without respiratory muscle weakness. METHODS: 25 subjects completed the study: 13 composed the inspiratory muscle training group, and 12 composed the calisthenics-and-breathing exercises group. Subjects were assessed before and after training by spirometry, measurements of respiratory muscle strength and test of inspiratory muscle endurance, thoracoabdominal excursion measurements, and the 6-min walk test. Moreover, scores for the Modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale were reported. RESULTS: After intervention, there was a significant improvement in both groups of respiratory muscle strength and endurance, thoracoabdominal mobility, and walking distance in the 6-min walk test. Additionally, there was a decrease of dyspnea in the 6-min walk test peak. A difference was found between groups, with higher values of respiratory muscle strength and thoracoabdominal mobility and lower values of dyspnea in the 6-min walk test peak and the Modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale in the inspiratory muscle training group. In the inspiratory muscle training group, subjects with respiratory muscle weakness had greater gains in inspiratory muscle strength and endurance. CONCLUSIONS: Both interventions increased exercise capacity and decreased dyspnea during physical effort. However, inspiratory muscle training was more effective in increasing inspiratory muscle strength and endurance, which could result in a decreased sensation of dyspnea. In addition, subjects with respiratory muscle weakness that performed inspiratory muscle training had higher gains in inspiratory muscle strength and endurance but not of dyspnea and submaximal exercise capacity. (ClinicalTrials.gov registration NCT01510041.).

Treinamento Físico Combinado Melhora a Tolerância ao Exercício e o Prognóstico em Indivíduos com DPOC / Combined Physical Training Improves Exercise Tolerance and Prognosis in Individuals with COPD / El entrenamiento físico combinado mejora la tolerancia al ejercicio y el pronóstico en individuos con EPOC

Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito deste treinamento sobre a tolerância ao exercício em pessoas com DPOC e sobre o prognóstico da doença. Método: Nove idosos com DPOC (GDPOC) e nove idosos saudáveis (GS) foram avaliados antes e após TFC por Teste de caminhada de seis minutos (TC6'), teste incremental no cicloergometro (TIC), composição corporal e teste de 1 repetição máxima (1RM). O GDPOC foi avaliado também pelo índice BODE. O TFC constou de trinta minutos de treinamento aeróbio e três séries de quinze repetições de treinamento resistido em leg press horizontal com carga de 40-60% do teste de 1 repetição máxima, com intervalo de cinco minutos para recuperação. Foram realizadas três sessões semanais durante seis semanas. Resultados: No GDPOC, houve aumento significativo na distância percorrida e melhora no índice BODE. Conclusão: O TFC de seis semanas evidencia ser efetivo para melhora da tolerância ao exercício em indivíduos idosos com DPOC e do prognóstico de indivíduos da doença.

Objective: To identify the effect of this training on exercise tolerance in people with COPD and on the prognosis of the disease. Method: Nine elderly patients with COPD (COPDG) and nine healthy elderly (HG), were avaluated before and after physical training to: six-minute walk test (6MWT), incremental test (ICT), body composition and test 1 repetition maximum (1RM), it was avaluated also in COPDG the BODE index. The training consisted of thirty minutes of aerobic training and three sets of fifteen repetitions of resistance training in leg press horizontal with 40-60% of 1RM, with an interval of five minutes for recovery. Three weekly sessions were held for six weeks. Results: In COPDG, there was a significant increase in the distance covered and an improvement in the BODE index. Conclusion: The 6-week CPT evidence to be effective in improving exercise tolerance in both elderly COPD subjects and the prognosis of disease.

Objetivo: evaluar el efecto de esta capacitación sobre la tolerancia al ejercicio en personas con EPOC y sobre el pronóstico de la enfermedad. Métods: Nueve personas mayores con EPOC (GEPOC) y nueve personas mayores sanas (GS) fueron evaluadas antes y después de TFC mediante una prueba de caminata de seis minutos (6MWT), prueba incremental en el cicloergómetro (ICT), composición corporal y una prueba de 1 repetición máxima (1RM). El GEPOC también se evaluó utilizando el índice BODE. El TFC consistió en treinta minutos de entrenamiento aeróbico y tres series de quince repeticiones de entrenamiento de resistencia en press de piernas horizontal con una carga del 40-60% de la prueba de 1 repetición máxima, con un intervalo de cinco minutos para la recuperación. Se realizaron tres sesiones semanales durante seis semanas. Resultados: En GEPOC, hubo un aumento significativo en la distancia recorrida y una mejora en el índice BODE. Conclusión: El TFC de seis semanas demuestra ser efectivo para mejorar la tolerancia al ejercicio en personas mayores con EPOC y el pronóstico de las personas con la enfermedad.

[Evaluation of respiratory muscle strength and thoracic and abdominal amplitudes after a functional reeducation of breathing program for obese individuals]. / Avaliação da força muscular respiratória e amplitudes torácicas e abdominais após a rfr em indivíduos obesos.

The purpose of this study was to assess the elements of respiratory mechanics in obese individuals with respect to respiratory muscle strength determined by maximum respiratory pressure (PImax and PEmax) and the amplitude of thoracoabdominal movements at the levels: axillary (AAX), xiphoid (AXf) and abdominal (AAb). Twenty nine patients (43 +/- 13 years) were divided in two groups: Experimental group (E) and Control group (C). All patients were submitted to an initial evaluation and determination of PImax, PEmax, AAx, AXiph and AAb. The E group was submitted to 18 sessions of a Functional Reeducation of Breathing Program that consisted of respiratory orientation, respiratory coordination exercise associated to trunk and limb movements and muscle relaxation two times a week during 9 weeks. Student t-test showed a significant increase in PImax, Axif and Aabd in the experimental group, but when authors compared the two groups, they did not find any statistical difference. The results showed that the Program increased the respiratory muscle strength and the amplitude of abdominal movements in obese patients.

Lung function and six-minute walk test performance in individuals with sickle cell disease.

BACKGROUND: Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), which is characterized by a mutation in the gene encoding beta hemoglobin, causes bodily dysfunctions such as impaired pulmonary function and reduced functional capacity. OBJECTIVE: To assess changes in pulmonary function and functional capacity in patients with SCD and to identify the relationships between these variables. METHOD: We evaluated sociodemographic, anthropometric, lung function (spirometry), respiratory (manovacuometer), peripheral muscle strength (Handgrip strength - HS) and functional capacity (i.e., the six-minute walk test) parameters in 21 individuals with SCD (average age of 29±6 years). Shapiro-Wilk, paired Student's, Wilcoxon, Pearson and Spearman correlation tests were used for statistical analyses, and the significance threshold was set at p<0.05. RESULTS: A total of 47.6% of the study subjects exhibited an altered ventilation pattern, 42.8% had a restrictive ventilatory pattern (RVP) and 4.8% exhibited a mixed ventilatory pattern (MVP). The observed maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) values were below the predicted values for women (64 cmH2O), and the maximum expiratory pressure (MEP) values, HS values and distance walked during the 6MWT were below the predicted values for both men (103 cmH2O, 39 Kgf and 447 m, respectively) and women (64 cmH2O; 27 Kgf; 405 m, respectively). Positive correlations were observed between maximum voluntary ventilation (MVV) and MEP (r=0.4; p=0.046); MVV and BMI (r=0.6; p=0.003); and between HS and MIP (r=0.7; p=0.001), MEP (r=0.6; p=0.002), MVV (r=0.5; p=0.015), distance walked in the 6MWT (r=0.4; p=0.038) and BMI (r=0.6; p=0.004). CONCLUSIONS: SCD promoted changes in lung function and functional capacity, including RVPs and a reduction in the distance walked in the 6MWT when compared to the predictions. In addition, significant correlations between the variables were observed.

Reproducibility of cadence-free 6-minute step test in subjects with COPD.

BACKGROUND: Six-minute step test (6MST) has been used to assess functional capacity in chronic conditions; however, its reproducibility in the COPD population has not been evaluated. Our study objective was to evaluate 6MST reproducibility. METHODS: The test was performed in a single 20-cm height step, and subjects were instructed to step up and down (cadence-free) for 6 min. Subjects underwent three tests. The first and second were controlled by the same assessor with a 30-min interval. The third test was controlled by a different assessor one week later. For intra-rater comparison, the first and second performances of the test were used, and for inter-assessor comparison, the better performance of the first two tests was compared with the third test. RESULTS: Excellent intra-rater and inter-rater relative reproducibility was observed (intraclass correlation coefficient > 0.8), and there was no statistical difference (repeated measures of analysis of variance) among the performances of the three tests. Intra-rater error values were acceptable (mean error of 5.7 steps and limits of agreement between -7 and 18 steps). Inter-rater error values were not acceptable (mean error of 4.4 steps and limits of agreement between -20 and 29 steps. CONCLUSIONS: 6MST proved to be reproducible in the COPD population when performed by the same assessor.

Determination of exacerbation predictors in patients with COPD in physical therapy - a longitudinal study.

BACKGROUND: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) typically presents the characteristic clinical condition of exacerbation, with more intense symptoms associated with greater functional loss and consequently lower chances of patient survival. OBJECTIVES: This study sought to determine the predictors of exacerbation, alone or in combination, in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who received physical therapeutic treatment over 6 months. METHOD: This was an observational, longitudinal and prospective study in which 63 COPD patients residing within the municipality of São Carlos, SP, Brazil were evaluated. These patients had COPD stages II and III and were entered into a physical therapy program, consisting of 3 periods of assessment over 6 months. We evaluated the occurrence of acute exacerbation as well as the patients' body mass index (BMI), fat-free mass (FFM), fat-free mass index, forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), dyspnea, distance walked (DW) in the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and handgrip strength. RESULTS: When applying Cox settings with each covariate separately, the results revealed 5% significance only for the DW in the 6MWT, which demonstrated an interaction between BMI and FFM. Comparison of the 3 periods of assessment across the covariates measured showed a significant difference only for the DW between evaluations in the 3rd and 6th months. CONCLUSION: Upon analyzing the predictors of risk over 6 months of follow-up in patients with COPD, we found that the DW in the 6MWT was associated with the risk of exacerbation, although this risk also depended on the covariates BMI and FFM.

COPD patients' oxygen uptake and heart rate on-kinetics at cycle-ergometer: correlation with their predictors of severity.

OBJECTIVES: To assess whether there is a correlation between oxygen uptake (VO2) and heart rate (HR) on-kinetics in the constant-load cycle-ergometer test (CLT) and the BODE index and its isolated variables in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). METHOD: Fourteen male patients between 55 and 78 years of age with moderate to severe COPD were evaluated. Each patient underwent spirometry, the six-minute walk test (6MWT), the cycle-ergometer incremental test (IT) and CLT on alternate days. The exhaled gases were collected, and the VO2 and HR on-kinetics were analyzed. The BODE index was calculated. RESULTS: It was noted that the VO2 tau (τ) and mean response time (MRT) were significantly higher than HR τ and MRT. Moderate and strong correlations between τ and MRT of the VO2 and HR and the BODE index was noted (r=0.75 and r=0.78; r=0.62 and r=0.63, respectively), and there were correlations between the VO2 τ and MRT and the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) (r=-0.60; r=-0.53) and the distance traveled at 6MWT (DT-6MWT) (r=-0.61; r=-0.44) and DT-6MWT % predicted (r=-0.62; r=-0.46). The HR τ and MRT were correlated with DT-6MWT (r=-0.59; r=-0.58) and DT-6MWT % predicted (r=-0.62; r=-0.62). CONCLUSION: The slowing of cycle-ergometer VO2, and especially of HR on-kinetics, may be key markers of disease severity. Furthermore, airflow obstruction and reduced exercise capacity are associated with the slowing of patients' VO2 and HR on-kinetics.

Levels of physical activity and predictors of mortality in COPD.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the Body mass index, airway Obstruction, Dyspnea, and E xercise capacity (BODE) index scores and its individual components between COPD patients with and without severe physical inactivity, as well as to correlate the number of steps/day with scores of physical activity questionnaires, age, and the BODE index (including its components). METHODS: We included 30 patients, who were evaluated for body composition, pulmonary function (FEV1), perception of dyspnea (modified Medical Research Council scale), and exercise capacity (six-minute walk distance [6MWD]). The patients also completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), short version, and the modified Baecke questionnaire (mBQ). The level of physical activity was assessed by the number of steps/day (as determined by pedometer), using the cut-off of 4,580 steps/day to form two groups: no severe physical inactivity (SPI-) and severe physical inactivity (SPI+). We used the Mann-Whitney test or t-test, as well as Pearson's or Spearman's correlation tests, in the statistical analysis. RESULTS: In comparison with the SPI- group, the SPI+ group showed more advanced age, higher mBQ scores (leisure domain), lower 6MWD (in m and % of predicted), and lower IPAQ scores (metabolic equivalent-walk/week domain and total). The IPAQ scores showed weak correlations with steps/day (r = 0.399), age (r = -0.459), and 6MWD-in m (r = 0.446) and in % of predicted (r = 0.422). CONCLUSIONS: In our sample, the cut-off of 4,580 steps/day was not sensitive enough to identify differences between the groups when compared with the predictors of mortality. The IPAQ, short version score correlated with steps/day.

Obesidade abdominal e o sistema respiratório / Abdominal obesity and respiratory system

Introdução: A área da pneumologia tem dado importância para a associação da função respiratória com a obesidade. As transformações orgânicas decorrentes da obesidade implicam em alterações dos sistemas respiratório, imunomodulador, metabólico (musculatura esquelética, consumo de oxigênio e produção de gás carbônico) e circulatório. Este trabalho tem por objetivo revisar sobre o tema obesidade abdominal e sistema respiratório. Métodos: Revisão de literatura usando as bases de dados Scielo, Bireme, Pubmed e Scopus tendo como descritores: circulatory and respiratory physiological phenomena; respiratory function tests e abdominal obesity, sem limite para o ano de publicação e idioma. Resultados: A obesidade pode afetar o sistema respiratório independente da condição do parênquima pulmonar. Em indivíduos obesos, o mecanismo de respiração está prejudicado, pois o excesso de adiposidade que reveste o tórax e ocupa o abdome dificulta a ação da musculatura respiratória. A obesidade abdominal não é apenas um fator estético ou metabólico, mas também um fator mecânico que pode comprometer a função da musculatura respiratória e consequentemente a função pulmonar. As alterações na função respiratória mais frequentemente encontradas na obesidade são: redução do volume de reserva expiratório, capacidade vital, capacidade residual funcional e capacidade pulmonar total. Além do impacto mecânico, respiratório e cardiovascular, a obesidade também interfere para o estímulo e controle do sistema nervoso autônomo. Conclusão: A obesidade abdominal está interligada a fatores respiratórios desde o controle central respiratório até limitação dos constituintes respiratórios podendo ocasionar distúrbio respiratório restritivo e obstrutivo.

Introduction: The field of pneumology pointed out the association of respiratory function with obesity. The organic changes due to obesity imply changes in the respiratory, immunomodulatory, metabolic (skeletal musculature, oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production) and circulatory systems. The aim of his study was a review about abdominal obesity and respiratory system. Methods: Literature review using the Scielo, Bireme, Pubmed and Scopus databases, and the following descriptors: circulatory and respiratory physiological phenomena; respiratory function tests and abdominal obesity, no limit to the year of publication and language. Results: Obesity can affect the respiratory system independent of pulmonary parenchyma condition. In obese individuals, the breathing mechanism is impaired, because the excess of fat that lines the chest and occupy the abdomen makes it difficult for the respiratory musculature to function. Abdominal obesity is not only an aesthetic or metabolic factor, but also a mechanical factor that can compromise respiratory muscle function and consequently lung function. The changes in respiratory function most frequently found in obesity are: reduction of expiratory reserve volume, vital capacity, functional residual capacity and total lung capacity. Besides the mechanical, respiratory and cardiovascular impact, obesity also interferes with the stimulation and control of the autonomic nervous system. Conclusion: Abdominal obesity is interrelated to respiratory factors from central respiratory control to limitation of respiratory constituents and can cause restrictive and obstructive respiratory disorder.

Clinical outcomes related to the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia in adults - a cohort study / Desfechos clínicos ligados à incidência de pneumonia associada à ventilação mecânica no adulto - estudo de coorte

Abstract Introduction: Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP) is a common complication found in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and is associated with increased mortality, length of hospital stay and mechanical ventilation (MV) time. Objective: To determine the incidence of VAP and its impact on the clinical course of the subject undergoing invasive MV in the ICU. Methods: This is a cohort study of hospitalized subjects in the general adult ICU of the State Hospital of Bauru / SP. The clinical information for the period of 19 months were collected. Stratification for the groups was based on the presence or absence of VAP, free_VAP and VAP, respectively. The Hotelling T² with 95% confidence, chi-square and the Mann-Whitney tests were executed using the "R" software and the results showed as mean ± standard deviation and absolute and relative distribution (p < 0.05). Results: The sample was of 322 subjects; the VAP group consisted of 73 (22.67%), 54.79% male, age: 62.31±16.96 years and the APACHE II: 29.98 ± 8.64. The VAP group had longer time of the MV and of the ICU compared to free VAP group; even in this group, the highest incidence of death in the ICU occurred between the 16th and 20th day of hospitalization. The free VAP group was older and 50% of the patients discharged from hospital. Conclusion: VAP and their interfaces still impact on the clinical evolution of the subjects mainly on the time factor of MV and ICU stay. The highest incidence of death in the ICU occurs in the first weeks.

Resumo Introdução: A Pneumonia Associada à Ventilação Mecânica (PAV) é uma complicação comumente encontrada na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI) e está associada à maior mortalidade, tempo de internação e ventilação mecânica (VM). Objetivo: Verificar a incidência da PAV e seu impacto sobre a evolução clínica dos sujeitos submetidos à ventilação mecânica invasiva na UTI. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo de coorte com sujeitos internados na UTI geral adulto do Hospital Estadual de Bauru/SP. Foram coletadas as informações clínicas referentes ao período de 19 meses. A estratificação para os grupos foi realizada com base na ocorrência ou não da PAV, sem_PAV e PAV, respectivamente. Foi aplicado o teste T2 de Hotelling com 95% de confiança e Qui-Quadrado utilizando o Software "R" e os resultados apresentados em média ± desvio padrão e distribuição absoluta e relativa (p < 0,05). Resultados: A casuística foi de 322 sujeitos; o grupo PAV constou de 73 (22,67%), sendo 54,79% do sexo masculino, idade: 62,31 ± 16,96 anos e APACHE II: 29,98 ± 8,64. O grupo NAV teve maior tempo de VM e na UTI se comparado ao grupo sem_NAV; ainda neste grupo, a maior incidência de óbito na UTI ocorreu entre o 16° ao 20° dia de internação. O grupo sem_PAV era mais velho e 50% deste tiveram alta hospitalar. Conclusão: A PAV e suas interfaces ainda causam impacto sobre a evolução clínica dos sujeitos principalmente quanto ao fator tempo de ventilação mecânica e de internação na UTI. A maior incidência de óbito na UTI ocorre nas primeiras semanas.