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Abstract Background Patient education is a crucial strategy for promoting prevention and diabetes self-management since glycemic control achievement involves taking medications, medical nutrition therapy, physical exercise, and behavior changes. However, patient education programs are still barely implemented in low- and middle-income countries. This trial aims to investigate whether a lifestyle education intervention added to physical exercising is superior to sole physical exercising regarding functional capacity, disease-related knowledge, health behaviors, cardiometabolic health parameters, quality of life, depression, and diet quality in individuals with prediabetes or diabetes. Methods Multicenter double-blinded randomized controlled trial with two parallel arms involving 12-week intervention and 6-month follow-up. The eligible individuals (≥ 18 years, living with prediabetes or diabetes, literate, no clinical decompensation and/or physical and/or mental limitations that contraindicate physical exercising, written physician permission for exercise, no cognitive impairment, no vision limitations for reading, no confirmed diagnosis of unstable coronary disease or heart failure, no pacemaker and/or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, no complex ventricular arrhythmias, no intermittent claudication, no recent cardiovascular event or cardiac surgery, and no currently enrolled in a structured exercise program) were recruited from two Brazilian cities and randomized to either (1) an Exercise and Lifestyle Education Program (ExLE) or (2) an Exercise Program (Ex), which can be delivered on-site or remotely based on the participants’ internet access and technology literacy. The primary outcomes will be changes in functional capacity and disease-related knowledge. The secondary outcomes will involve changes in health behaviors (health literacy, physical activity level, exercise self-efficacy, and medication adherence) and cardiometabolic health parameters (glycemic control, anthropometric measures, and cardiac autonomic control). Program adherence, satisfaction with the program, diabetes-related morbidity, and changes in quality of life, depression, and diet quality will be the tertiary outcomes. Assessments will occur at baseline, post-intervention, and after 6-month follow-up. Discussion If superior effectiveness of ExLE compared to Ex program to improve the outcomes measures is found, this program could be delivered broadly in the Brazilian health system, especially in the primary care facilities where most individuals living with prediabetes and diabetes in our country are assisted. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03914924 . Registered on April 16, 2019.

IntroductionAir pollution poses significant risks to cardiovascular health, yet patients often lack comprehensive knowledge about its impact and mitigation strategies. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an educational intervention within a cardiac rehabilitation (CR) context in enhancing patients’ understanding of air pollution and its cardiovascular effects.MethodsA pre-post pilot study was conducted from February 2021 to June 2021 at the Gregorio Marañón University General Hospital, Madrid, Spain. A total of 43 patients with cardiovascular disease attending CR were enrolled. Participants received a 1-h educational intervention delivered either in-person or online, focusing on the effects of air pollution and strategies to reduce exposure. Pre- and post-intervention questionnaires assessed participants’ knowledge and perceptions. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze changes in awareness and understanding.ResultsInitially, participants demonstrated a high level of awareness about the health impacts of air pollution, with 100% acknowledging its effects on health. However, detailed knowledge about specific concepts such as the Air Quality Index (AQI) and particulate matter (PM2.5) was limited. Post-intervention, there was a significant increase in knowledge, with familiarity with AQI rising from 61% to 81% (p = 0.02) and understanding of PM2.5 improving from 28% to 58% (p = 0.01). This indicates that the educational intervention effectively bridged gaps in understanding and reinforced the importance of environmental factors in cardiovascular health management.DiscussionThe pilot study highlights the critical role of targeted education in improving patient awareness and knowledge about air pollution. The significant improvement in understanding key concepts underscores the need for broader educational initiatives that extend beyond CR programs. Future research should explore the impact of such interventions on long-term health outcomes and consider expanding educational efforts to include healthcare providers and family members.

Objective To test the measurement properties of the revised version of the English Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale (CRBS-R), suitable for hybrid delivery, structural validity, internal reliability, as well as face, cross-cultural, construct and criterion validity were assessed.Design Cross-sectional study, where participants completed an online survey via Qualtrics (2023–2024).Setting Multicentre, with cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programmes recruiting patients globally; most patients stemmed from a hybrid programme in Iran and supervised programme in Brazil.Participants Participants include inpatients or outpatients with a cardiovascular diagnosis or procedure that is indicated for participation in CR.Measures In addition to sociodemographic and CR use items, the 21-item CRBS-R was administered. It assesses multilevel barriers and was revised based on a literature review. Responses range from 1 to 5, with higher scores indicating greater barriers.Results 235 patients participated from all 6 WHO regions. Items were rated as highly applicable, and open-ended responses revealing no key barriers were omitted, supporting face and cross-cultural validity. Cronbach’s α for the total CRBS-R was 0.82. Principal components analysis resulted in the extraction of 4 components, which collectively accounted for 60.5% of the variance and were all internally consistent. Construct validity was supported by associations of total CRBS scores with work status (p=0.04), exercise history (p=0.01) and social support (p=0.03). Total CRBS-R scores were significantly lower in patients who were referred and enrolled versus those who were not (both p≤0.01), confirming criterion validity.Conclusions The CRBS-R is a reliable and valid scale comprising four subscales, applicable to hybrid CR across diverse settings. It can serve as a valuable tool to support identification of patient’s CR barriers, to optimise secondary prevention utilisation globally.

As práticas educativas são constituintes da formação curricular que possibilitam o processo de ensino-aprendizagem dos educandos. Além disso, pensar nessas práticas em um período de pandemia da Covid-19 é visto como um desafio, isto pois, refere-se a um momento em que os estudantes da escola básica passaram quase dois anos com aulas totalmente remotas e logo após um período com aulas híbridas, com o uso de máscaras de proteção e o distanciamento social. Ao que confere os conteúdos problematizados na oficina, as águas subterrâneas são caracterizadas por ser toda água que infiltra no subsolo e ocorre sob superfície de Terra, através dessas águas pode haver a formação de aquíferos, que são caracterizados como um grande reservatório de água, diante disso, enfatiza-se que essa temática é de estrema relevância dentro do Ensino de Geografia na subárea de Hidrogeografia. Sendo assim, a abordagem desse tema no Programa do PIBID, ocorreu através da construção e implementação de uma oficina, valendo salientar que a implementação ocorreu de forma presencial com todas as medidas de segurança. Outrossim, o artigo busca apresentar as práticas educativas que foram desenvolvidas durante o período de pandemia da Covid-19 no Programa Institucional de Bolsa de Iniciação à Docência (PIBID), a fim de poder compartilhar os desafios que foram vivenciados. Os estudantes da escola básica, ao participarem ativamente da oficina, tiveram uma experiência prática que facilitou a compreensão do processo de infiltração da água no solo. Essa abordagem interativa tende a aumentar o interesse e o envolvimento dos estudantes, promovendo uma aprendizagem mais eficaz e duradoura sobre o ciclo da água e os processos hidrológicos.

Background: Several common pregnancy conditions significantly increase a woman’s risk of future cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Patient education and interventions aimed at awareness and self-management of cardiovascular risk factors may help modify future cardiovascular risk. The aim of this systematic review was to examine education interventions for cardiovascular risk after pregnancy, clinical measures/scales, and knowledge outcomes in published qualitative and quantitative studies. Methods: Five databases were searched (from inception to June 2023). Studies including interventions and validated and nonvalidated measures of awareness/knowledge of future cardiovascular risk among women after complications of pregnancy were considered. Quality was rated using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Results were analyzed using the Synthesis Without Meta-analysis reporting guideline. Characteristics of interventions were reported using the Template for Intervention Description and Replication. Fifteen studies were included; 3 were randomized controlled trials. Results: In total, 1623 women had a recent or past diagnosis of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, gestational diabetes mellitus, and/or premature birth. Of the 7 studies that used online surveys or questionnaires, 2 reported assessing psychometric properties of tools. Four studies used diverse educational interventions (pamphlets, information sheets, in-person group sessions, and an online platform with health coaching). Overall, women had a low level of knowledge about their future CVD risk. Interventions were effective in increasing this knowledge. Conclusions: In conclusion, women have a low level of knowledge of risk of CVD after pregnancy complications. To increase this level of knowledge and self-management, this population has a strong need for psychometrically validated tailored education interventions. Résumé: Contexte: Plusieurs problèmes médicaux liés à la grossesse augmentent significativement le risque d’une maladie cardiovasculaire (MCV) ultérieure chez les femmes. L’éducation des patients et les interventions axées sur la sensibilisation aux facteurs de risques cardiovasculaire et sur l’autoprise en charge pourraient aider à limiter le risque de MCV. La présente analyse des études qualitatives et quantitatives publiées visait à examiner les interventions éducatives au sujet des risques cardiovasculaires après la grossesse, les mesures et échelles cliniques qui y sont associées, et les résultats de ces interventions sur le plan des connaissances. Méthodologie: Des recherches ont été réalisées dans cinq bases de données (de leur date de création jusqu’à juin 2023). Les études considérées incluaient des interventions et des mesures validées ou non de la sensibilisation des femmes au sujet des risques de MCV après des complications liées à la grossesse ou de leurs connaissances à ce sujet. La qualité des études a été évaluée avec l’Outil d’évaluation de la qualité méthodologique des études incluses dans une revue mixte, et les résultats ont été évalués à l’aide de la méthodologie Synthesis Without Meta-analysis. Les caractéristiques des interventions ont été relevées selon le modèle Template for Intervention Description and Replication. Quinze études ont été retenues, dont 3 essais contrôlés randomisés. Résultats: Au total, 1623 femmes avaient reçu récemment ou auparavant un diagnostic de trouble hypertensif lié à la grossesse, de diabète gestationnel et/ou de travail prématuré. Parmi les 7 études ayant eu recours à des questionnaires ou des sondages en ligne, 2 mentionnaient l’évaluation des propriétés psychométriques des outils. Dans 4 études, plusieurs interventions éducatives ont été utilisées (dépliants, feuillets informatifs, séances de groupe en personne et plateforme en ligne offrant un accompagnement en matière de santé). De manière générale, le niveau de connaissance des femmes au sujet de leur risque de MCV était faible, mais les interventions se sont révélées efficaces pour améliorer ces connaissances. Conclusions: En conclusion, les femmes ne connaissent pas bien les risques de MCV associés aux complications survenues au cours de la grossesse. Pour améliorer le niveau des connaissances et l’autoprise en charge, des interventions conçues pour cette population et validées sur le plan psychométrique sont indispensables.

Background: Women are less likely than men to use cardiac rehabilitation (CR); thus, women-focused (W-F) CR was developed. Implementation of W-F CR globally was investigated, as well as barriers and enablers to its delivery. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a survey was administered to CR programs via Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) from May to July, 2023. Potential respondents were identified via the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation’s network. Results: A total of 223 responses were received from 52 of 111 countries (46.8% country response rate) in the world that have any CR, across all 6 World Health Organization regions. Thirty-three programs (14.8%) from 30 countries reported offering any W-F programming. Programs commonly did offer elements preferred by women and recommended, namely, the following: patient choice of session time (n = 151; 70.6%); invitations for informal care providers and/or partners to attend sessions (n = 121; 57.1%); CR staff that have expertise in women and heart diseases (n = 112; 53.3%); separate changerooms for women (n = 38; 52.8%); and discussion of CR referral with patients (n = 112; 52.1%). Main barriers to delivery of W-F exercise were physical resources (n = 33; 14.8%), space (n = 30; 13.5%), and staff time (n = 26; 11.7%) and expertise (n = 33; 10.3%). Main barriers to delivery of W-F education were human resources (n = 114; 51.1%), educational resources (n = 26; 11.7%), and expertise in the content (n = 74; 33.2%). Enablers of W-F education delivery were availability of materials, in multiple modalities, as well as educated staff and financial resources. Conclusions: Despite the benefits, W-F CR is not commonly offered globally. Considering the barriers and enablers identified, the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation is developing resources to expand delivery. Résumé: Contexte: Les femmes étant moins susceptibles que les hommes d’avoir recours à la réadaptation cardiaque (RC), il convient d’élaborer des programmes de RC qui sont mieux adaptés à leurs besoins. Le recours à de tels programmes dans le monde a fait l’objet d’une étude, laquelle portait également sur les obstacles à leur prestation et les facteurs qui les favorisent. Méthodologie: Dans cette étude transversale, un sondage a été mené auprès de programmes de RC via la REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture) de mai à juillet 2023. Les participants potentiels au sondage ont été sélectionnés par le réseau de l’International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation. Résultats: Au total, 223 réponses ont été reçues de 52 pays sur 111 qui ont un programme de RC (taux de réponse des pays de 46,8 %), dans les 6 régions de l’Organisation mondiale de la Santé. Selon les résultats, trente-trois programmes (14,8 %) de 30 pays offrent des services axés sur les femmes. Les programmes offraient habituellement des éléments privilégiés par les femmes et recommandaient notamment des séances au moment choisi par les patientes (n = 151; 70,6 %); la possibilité de se faire accompagner par un aidant naturel et/ou un(e) partenaire (n = 121; 57,1 %); du personnel de RC possédant une expertise auprès des femmes et en matière de maladies cardiaques (n = 112; 53,3 %); des vestiaires réservés aux femmes (n = 38; 52,8 %); et une discussion avec les patientes sur leur orientation vers des spécialistes en RC (n = 112; 52,1 %). Les principaux obstacles à la prestation de services pour les femmes étaient les ressources physiques (n = 33; 14,8 %), l’espace (n = 30; 13,5 %) ainsi que la disponibilité du personnel (n = 26; 11,7 %) et son expertise (n = 33; 10,3 %). Les principaux obstacles à l’éducation destinée aux femmes étaient les ressources humaines (n = 114; 51,1 %), les ressources éducatives (n = 26; 11,7 %) et l’expertise liée au contenu (n = 74; 33,2 %). Les facteurs qui favorisent l’éducation destinée aux femmes étaient la disponibilité du matériel, sous plusieurs formes, de même que le personnel formé et les ressources financières. Conclusions: En dépit des bienfaits, la RC axée sur les femmes n’est pas couramment offerte dans le monde. En tenant compte des obstacles et des facteurs favorisant la prestation des services cités, l’International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation s’affaire à concevoir des ressources pour élargir la portée des programmes destinés aux femmes.

A análise do papel do Poder Judiciário na salvaguarda dos direitos das mulheres encarceradas, incluindo o acesso a absorventes, é crucial para entender o compromisso com a garantia do mínimo existencial nas prisões femininas. Para fins desta pesquisa, adotou-se uma abordagem qualitativa por revisão bibliográfica e pesquisa documental para identificar iniciativas, legislações, tratados internacionais, práticas institucionais e levantamento de dados estatísticos para compreender o cenário de acesso a produtos de higiene menstrual, especialmente para mulheres encarceradas no contexto brasileiro. O Portal do Conselho Nacional de Justiça apresentou que, das 11 metas aprovadas em 2023, apenas 9% estavam diretamente relacionadas aos direitos humanos e às questões das mulheres, sendo desafiador o desenho, o financiamento e a aplicação de ações direcionadas para essa população vulnerável.

Este relato tem por objetivo apresentar a experiência do projeto de extensão Democratização: construindo valores, da Universidade Católica Dom Bosco (UCDB), que está em andamento desde o ano de 2021. A extensão universitária vem para cumprir o papel social da universidade, auxiliando nas soluções de demandas e atendendo aos interesses da população. A partir da necessidade das instituições de atendimento socioassistencial e dando escuta às necessidades local, o projeto tem por finalidade desenvolver atividades de apoio sociopedagógico que favoreçam o fortalecimento dos vínculos familiares e comunitários, educação financeira, desenvolvimento do autoconhecimento, formação para convivência, ética, cidadania, autoconfiança e resiliência, a fim de contribuir com o projeto de vida de adolescentes acolhidos, por meio de metodologias ativas como gamificação, dinâmicas de grupo, dentre outras. Na sua execução, esta proposta se compromete com as diretrizes conceituais da extensão, tendo como foco seus pilares e dentre eles, a dialogicidade. As ações ocorrem em parceria entre o projeto de extensão e a Instituição atendida, isto é, a Unidade de Acolhimento Institucional de adolescentes masculina vinculada à Secretaria Municipal de Assistência Social de Campo Grande - MS. As atividades são interdisciplinares e ocorrem com acompanhamento e supervisão docente. Sob a vertente dialógica, a proposta procura levar em consideração a pluralidade e a diversidade, marcas intrínsecas da democracia com pauta na escuta, escolha, coautoria e corresponsabilidade. Espera-se que as ações conjuntas resultem em atitudes individuais e coletivas, que poderão impactar positivamente a realidade dos adolescentes atendidos, diminuindo as desigualdades sociais, na construção de novos valores.

IntroductionAddressing the ongoing needs of individuals with diabetes, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like the Philippines, requires a focus on regular follow-ups with healthcare teams, adherence to healthy behaviors, and effective patient education to prevent long-term complications. The aim of this study was to ascertain the impact of a comprehensive educational program for those living with diabetes in the Philippines.MethodsIn a prospective study, a convenience sample of patients living with diabetes attending a cardiac rehabilitation or an outpatient diabetes clinic in the Philippines received a 12-week education intervention. Participants completed surveys at pre- and post-intervention assessing disease-related knowledge, health literacy, dietary habits, and tobacco use. Physical activity was measured by steps taken per day using wearable devices and by self-report of minutes of moderate or vigorous-intensity exercise per week. Satisfaction with the educational materials was also evaluated by a survey composed of Likert-type scale and open-ended questions. Descriptive statistics, paired t-tests or chi-square were used for data analysis.ResultsOverall, 184 individuals living with diabetes type 2 (mean age = 54.4 ± 12.4, 32% female) completed both assessments. There was significant improvement in disease-related knowledge (p

Objective: To translate, culturally adapt, and psychometrically validate the Arabic Coronary Artery Disease Education Questionnaire Short Version (CADE-Q SV). Methods: The CADE-Q SV was translated to Arabic by two independent translators, followed by back-translation. Then, an expert panel of 10 healthcare providers and 10 patients reviewed the survey and provided input for content validity (CV) and clarity of items. For the psychometric analysis, 202 cardiac patients from Saudi Arabia completed the questionnaire, of which factor structure, internal consistency, construct, and criterion validity were assessed. Results: Items were translated, and CV was confirmed. Items were rated based on relevance and understandability. The scale was finalized after changes in 5 items. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed 5 factors, all internally consistent: medical condition, risk factors, exercise, nutrition, and psychosocial health. Overall alpha was 0.84. Construct validity was established by significant associations between scores and occupation, educational level, family income, having a diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome or valve disorders and with a history of valve repair or replacement a coronary artery bypass graft procedure. Scores were significantly higher for those that participated in cardiac rehabilitation, confirming criterion validity. Conclusions: Results from this study confirm the validity and reliability of the CADE-Q SV in Arabic-speaking patients. Innovation: The CADE-Q SV can be used as a knowledge measurement to support clinical work and development of education intervention for Arabic patients.

Objetivo: Descrever a utilização das boas práticas de atenção ao parto e nascimento e o grau de satisfação e experiência de puérperas com o parto. Métodos: Estudo transversal, realizado no período de julho de 2017 a janeiro de 2018, em uma maternidade em Fortaleza, Ceará. Utilizou-se o Questionário de Experiência e Satisfação com o Parto e questionário para avaliação dos dados sociodemográficos e obstétricos. Os dados foram analisados no software Statistical Package for the Social Science. O estudo foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa. Resultados: Participaram 237 puérperas com média de idade de 26 anos. 168 (70,9%) mulheres estiveram bastante satisfeitas com a estrutura da instituição, 119 (50,2%) com os cuidados profissionais prestados e 160 (67,5%) com o trabalho de parto e parto. Dentre os fatores que estiveram associados à experiência positiva com o parto, destaca-se a realização do contato pele a pele, o estímulo ao aleitamento materno e a utilização dos métodos não farmacológicos de alívio da dor. Conclusão: Para uma experiência mais positiva de parto, ressalta-se a importância de abordagens humanizadas que incentivem práticas como contato pele a pele e início precoce do aleitamento materno, além de garantir que profissionais de saúde forneçam cuidados holísticos.

ObjectivesThe self-administered version of the Mediterranean Diet Scale (MDS) has been developed to test the inherent characteristics of this dietary pattern in a quick and simple way, due to the need of this assessment in the clinical and research setting. This study aimed to translate and psychometrically validate the self-administered MDS in Arabic (CRBS-A).MethodsThe original (English) version was originally translated to Arabic, followed by back-translation. Next, 10 healthcare providers, followed by 10 cardiovascular disease (CVD) patients rated the face and content validity (CV) of materials, providing input to improve cross-cultural applicability. Then, 200 patients from Saudi Arabia completed the questionnaire, of which factor structure, internal consistency, criterion and construct validity were assessed.ResultsContent and face validity was supported based on experts and patients' reviews (ranges: CV scores 0.9-1.0/1.0 and clarity 3.5 to 4.5/5). Minor edits were made. Subsequent factor analysis revealed 4 factors consistent with the original version of the instrument, all internally consistent. Total CRBS-A α was 0.74. Criterion validity was confirmed by the significantly higher scores in patients who participated in CR. Construct validity was also established by significant associations between MDS scores and monthly family income, having the diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome or with a history of valve repair or replacement, being obese or having dyslipidemia.ConclusionsOverall, these results confirm the validity and reliability of the MDS in Arabic-speaking patients.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a comprehensive educational intervention in a hybrid model of cardiac rehabilitation in Spain during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: In a prospective pretest-posttest pilot study a pooled sample of patients attending hybrid cardiac rehabilitation in Spain received a culturally-adapted education intervention for 6 weeks. Participants completed surveys at pre- and post-rehabilitation assessing disease-related knowledge, health literacy, adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and self-efficacy. Physical activity was measured by number of steps per day using wearable activity tracking devices. Satisfaction with the educational materials was also evaluated by a survey with a 10 point Likert-type scale and yes/no and open-ended questions. Results: Eighty-one(99%) participants completed both assessments. There was significant improvement in disease-related knowledge(p < 0.001), physical activity(p < 0.001), and adherence to the diet(p = 0.005) post-rehabilitation. The number of participants that were classified as having “high health literacy skills” increased by 17%. Post-rehabilitation knowledge was associated with education level (ß = 0.430; p = 0.001),pre-rehabilitation knowledge (ß = 0.510; p = 0.002), and high health literacy skills (ß = 0.489; p = 0.01). Educational materials were highly satisfactory to participants. Conclusion: Significant increases in disease-related knowledge and health behaviors in patients attending hybrid models of cardiac rehabilitation are encouraging results that support the value of implementing comprehensive educational initiatives to programs in Spain. Innovation: This work presents preliminary evidence of the effectiveness of the first comprehensive education intervention that is open access and culturally adapted to people living with cardiovascular disease in Spain.

Abstract Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have potential in disease treatment since they can be loaded with therapeutic molecules and engineered for retention by specific tissues. However, questions remain on optimal dosing, administration and pharmacokinetics. Previous studies have addressed biodistribution and pharmacokinetics in rodents, but little evidence is available for larger animals. Here, we investigated the pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of Expi293F‐derived EVs labelled with a highly sensitive nanoluciferase reporter (palmGRET) in a non‐human primate model (Macaca nemestrina), comparing intravenous (IV) and intranasal (IN) administration over a 125‐fold dose range. We report that EVs administered IV had longer circulation times in plasma than previously reported in mice and were detectable in cerebrospinal fluid after 30–60 min. EV association with peripheral blood mononuclear cells, especially B‐cells, was observed as early as 1‐min post‐administration. EVs were detected in liver and spleen within 1 h of IV administration. However, IN delivery was minimal, suggesting that pretreatment approaches may be needed in large animals. Furthermore, EV circulation times strongly decreased after repeated IV administration, possibly due to immune responses and with clear implications for xenogeneic EV‐based therapeutics. We hope that our findings from this baseline study in macaques will help to inform future research and therapeutic development of EVs.

Abstract Background Globally, the incidence of diabetes is increasing and strategies to reach a comprehensive approach of care are needed, including education in self-management. This is particularly true in low and middle-income countries where the number of people living with diabetes is higher than in the high-income ones. This article describes the development of a structured patient education program for Brazilians living with diabetes or prediabetes. Methods These steps were undertaken: 1) a 4-phase needs assessment (literature search of local diabetes guidelines, environmental scan, evaluation of information needs of patients identified by diabetes experts, and patient focus groups); and, 2) the translation and cultural adaptation of the patient guide (preparation, translation, back-translation, back-translation review, harmonization, and proofreading). Results Four of the seven guidelines identified include educational aspects of diabetes management. No structured education program was reported from the environmental scan. Regarding the information needs, 15 diabetes experts identified their patients’ needs, who referred that they have high information needs for topics related to their health condition. Finally, results from six patient focus groups were clustered into six themes (self-management, physical activity, eating habits, diabetes medication, psychosocial being, and sleep), all embedded into the new education program. Constructive theory, adult learning principles, and the Health Action Process Approach model were used in program development and will be used in delivery. The developed program consists of 18 educational sessions strategically mapped and sequenced to support the program learning outcomes and a patient guide with 17 chapters organized into five sections, matched with weekly lectures. Conclusions This program is a sequential and theoretical strategic intervention that can reach programs in Brazil to support diabetes and prediabetes patient education.

Background: Cardiac rehabilitation programs (CRPs) had to change quickly in response to a shift in clinical priorities related to to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Yet, no study has examined the effect of COVID-19 on CRPs and if there has been an adequate transition to alternative programming. Methods: To examine the status of CRPs during the COVID-19 pandemic, a web-based questionnaire was completed by CRP managers from April 23rd to May 14th, 2020. Results: Overall, 114 representatives of 144 CRPs (79.1% of Canadian programs) responded. Of respondents, 41.2% (n = 47) reported CRP closure; primary reasons were staff redeployment and facility closure (41% of 51 responses, for both). Redeployment occurred in open CRPs and closed CRPs (30% ± 34% and 47% ± 38% of employees, respectively; P = 0.05) and reduced hours in 17.8% ± 31% and 22.5% ± 33% for remaining employees; P = 0.56. Of open CRPs, 84.8% accepted referrals for medically high-risk patients pre-COVID-19; this level fell to only 43.5% during the COVID-19 pandemic, P < 0.001. There was a significant reduction in patients with cognitive/communication/mobility deficits who were eligible to participate during the COVID-19 pandemic. Of respondents, 57%-82.6% reported safety concerns related to prescribing exercise to medically high-risk and vulnerable populations. CRPs transitioned from group-based to one-to-one delivery models—>80% by phone and/or e-mail. Any tele-rehabilitation (one-to-one/group) was also used by 32.7% and 43.5% of CRPs to deliver exercise and education, respectively (mostly one-to-one). Resource barriers cited by open and closed CRPs were related to technology—no tele-rehabilitation, lack of equipment and patient access (35% of all barriers)—and 25.3% of barriers were owing to greater demands on staff time. Conclusions: Within 2-months of COVID-19 being declared a pandemic, 41.2% of CRPs were closed and almost half of employees redeployed. Less time-efficient one-to-one models of remote care, mostly by phone/e-mail, were adopted. Vulnerable populations were disproportionately affected, becoming ineligible owing to safety concerns. Strategies to open closed CRPs, admission of high-risk/vulnerable populations, and offering of group-based tele-rehabilitation should be a national priority. Résumé: Contexte: Les programmes de réadaptation cardiaques (PRC) ont dû s'adapter rapidement en réponse à un changement des priorités cliniques liées à la maladie à coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). Pourtant, aucune étude n'a examiné l'effet du COVID-19 sur les PRC et s'il y a eu une transition adéquate vers une programmation alternative. Méthodes: Pour examiner l'état des PRC durant la pandémie de COVID-19, un questionnaire en ligne a été rempli par les responsables des PRC du 23 avril au 14 mai 2020. Résultats: Au total, 114 représentants de 144 PRC (79,1 % des programmes canadiens) y ont répondu. Parmi les répondants, 41,2 % (n = 47) ont signalé une fermeture du PRC; les principales raisons résidaient en un redéploiement du personnel ou une fermeture des installations (41 % des 51 réponses, avec une combinaison des deux). Le redéploiement a eu lieu pour les PRC ouverts et les PRC fermés (concernant 30 % ± 34 % et 47 % ± 38 % des employés, respectivement; P = 0,05) et les heures réduites pour 17,8 % ± 31 % et 22,5 % ± 33 % des employés restants; P = 0,56. Concernant les PRC restés ouverts, 84,8 % acceptaient de guider les patients à haut risque médical avant la COVID-19; ce niveau est tombé à seulement 43,5 % pendant la pandémie de COVID-19, P < 0,001. Parmi les patients dont la participation était éligible durant la pandémie de COVID-19, il y a eu une réduction significative du nombre de patients présentant des déficits cognitifs/communicationnels/de mobilité. Parmi les responsables interrogés, 57 % à 82,6 % ont fait état de problèmes de sécurité lorsqu’il était question de prescription d'exercice physique à des populations vulnérables et médicalement à haut risque. Les PRC sont passées d'un modèle de groupe à un modèle de prestation individuelle—>80 % par téléphone et/ou par courriel. La réadaptation à distance (individuelle/en groupe) a également été utilisée par, respectivement, 32,7 % et 43,5 % des PRC pour dispenser des exercices et des formations (principalement en séance individuelle). Les obstacles en matière de ressources identifiés par les PRC ouverts et fermés étaient liés à la technologie - pas de réadaptation à distance, manque d'équipement et de moyen d'accès par les patients (35 % de tous les obstacles) - et 25,3 % des obstacles étaient dus à des exigences plus importantes en matière de temps de travail du personnel. Conclusions: Dans les deux mois suivant la déclaration de la COVID-19 en tant que pandémie, 41,2 % des PRC ont été fermés et près de la moitié des employés ont été redéployés. Des modèles de soins individuels à distance, moins efficaces en termes de temps, principalement par téléphone/courriel, ont été adoptés. Les populations vulnérables ont été touchées de manière disproportionnée, devenant inéligibles pour des raisons de sécurité. Des stratégies d'ouverture des PRC fermés, d'admission des populations à haut risque ou vulnérables et d'offre de réadaptation à distance, en groupe, devraient constituer une priorité nationale.

BackgroundDue to the strict measures employed to control the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the extent of COVID-19 goes beyond morbidity and mortality and affects individuals’ mental health in the long term. ObjectiveThis cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and its contributing factors among older people in Chengmai County, China. MethodsA web-based survey was administered through WeChat between March and April 2020. Older people (ie, >50 years) from local and foreign community groups completed the survey, which included items on sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7), and the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Independent t tests and a multiple linear regression analysis were used to investigate differences between anxiety and depression and the factors associated with these symptoms across the 2 groups. ResultsOverall, 469 responses were received; 119 responses (25.4%) were from male participants and 202 (43.1%) were from those older than 65 years. Of the 469 responses, 245 (52.2%) were from the local community group and 224 (47.8%) from the foreign group. The mean GAD-7 (P=.003) scores were significantly higher in the local group. Anxiety was significantly more present in the local group (61/245, 24.9% compared to 35/224, 15.6% in the foreign group; P=.01). A total of 6 respondents presented severe anxiety and 2 presented severe depression. ConclusionsThis study demonstrated that both community groups of older adults from the Chinese “Hometown of Longevity” presented anxiety or depressive disorders during the first months of the pandemic. Local community groups presented significantly more mental health disorders, which were associated with a history of previous psychological disorders.

Background: Although patient education is considered a core component of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs, to our knowledge, no educational program designed for CR has been standardized in Canada. This absence of standardization may be due to a lack of reliable resources to educate these patients. The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of an education intervention in improving knowledge and health behaviours among CR patients in 3 sites in Canada. Methods: CR patients were exposed to an evidence- and theoretically based comprehensive education intervention. Patients completed surveys assessing knowledge, physical activity, food intake, self-efficacy, and health literacy. All outcomes were assessed pre- and post-CR. Paired t tests were used to investigate variable changes between pre- and post-CR, Pearson correlation coefficients were used to determine the association between knowledge and behaviours, and linear regression models were computed to investigate differences in overall post-CR knowledge based on participant characteristics. Results: A total of 252 patients consented to participate, of whom 158 (63.0%) completed post-CR assessments. There was a significant improvement in patients’ overall knowledge pre- to post-CR, as well as in exercise, food intake, and self-efficacy (P < 0.05). Results showed a significant positive correlation between post-CR knowledge and food intake (r = 0.203; P = 0.01), self-efficacy (r = 0.201; P = 0.01), and health literacy (r = 0.241; P = 0.002). Education level (unstandardized beta = −2.511; P = 0.04) and pre-CR knowledge (unstandardized beta = 0.433; P < 0.001) were influential in changing post-CR knowledge. Conclusion: In this first-ever multi-site study focusing on patient education for CR patients in Canada, the benefits of an education intervention have been supported. Résumé: Contexte: Bien que l’éducation du patient soit considérée comme un élément essentiel des programmes de réadaptation cardiaque (RC), il n’existe, à notre connaissance, aucun programme éducatif standardisé en RC au Canada. Cette absence de standardisation peut être attribuable à un manque de ressources fiables en matière d’éducation des patients. Cette étude visait à évaluer l’efficacité réelle d’une intervention éducative au regard de l’amélioration des connaissances et des comportements touchant la santé chez des patients en RC dans trois établissements au Canada. Méthodologie: Une intervention éducative globale fondée sur des données probantes et théoriques a été menée auprès de patients en RC. Les patients ont répondu à des questionnaires d’évaluation des connaissances, de l’activité physique, de l’apport alimentaire, de l’autoefficacité et de la littératie en matière de santé. Tous les résultats ont été évalués avant et après la RC. Des tests t pour échantillons appariés ont été utilisés pour étudier les changements touchant les variables évaluées avant et après la RC, des coefficients de corrélation de Pearson ont servi à déterminer l’association entre les connaissances et les comportements, et des modèles de régression linéaire ont été calculés pour étudier les différences dans les connaissances globales après la RC en fonction des caractéristiques des participants. Résultats: Au total, 252 patients ont accepté de participer; de ce nombre, 158 (63,0 %) ont pris part aux évaluations postérieures à la RC. Les connaissances globales des patients se sont améliorées de façon significative d’avant à après la RC, tout comme l’activité physique, l’apport alimentaire et l’autoefficacité (p < 0,05). Les résultats ont montré une corrélation positive significative entre les connaissances et l’apport alimentaire (r = 0,203; p = 0,01), l’autoefficacité (r = 0,201; p = 0,01) et la littératie en matière de santé (r = 0,241; p = 0,002) après la RC. Le niveau d’éducation (B = -2,511; p = 0,04) et les connaissances avant la RC (B = 0,433; p < 0,001) ont influé sur les changements touchant les connaissances après la RC. Conclusion: Cette toute première étude multicentrique axée sur l’éducation des patients en RC au Canada a permis de confirmer les avantages d’une intervention éducative.

Abstract Several vaccines have been introduced to combat the coronavirus infectious disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). Current SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines include mRNA‐containing lipid nanoparticles or adenoviral vectors that encode the SARS‐CoV‐2 Spike (S) protein of SARS‐CoV‐2, inactivated virus, or protein subunits. Despite growing success in worldwide vaccination efforts, additional capabilities may be needed in the future to address issues such as stability and storage requirements, need for vaccine boosters, desirability of different routes of administration, and emergence of SARS‐CoV‐2 variants such as the Delta variant. Here, we present a novel, well‐characterized SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine candidate based on extracellular vesicles (EVs) of Salmonella typhimurium that are decorated with the mammalian cell culture‐derived Spike receptor‐binding domain (RBD). RBD‐conjugated outer membrane vesicles (RBD‐OMVs) were used to immunize the golden Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) model of COVID‐19. Intranasal immunization resulted in high titres of blood anti‐RBD IgG as well as detectable mucosal responses. Neutralizing antibody activity against wild‐type and Delta variants was evident in all vaccinated subjects. Upon challenge with live virus, hamsters immunized with RBD‐OMV, but not animals immunized with unconjugated OMVs or a vehicle control, avoided body mass loss, had lower virus titres in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and experienced less severe lung pathology. Our results emphasize the value and versatility of OMV‐based vaccine approaches.

Um dos maiores desafios ao longo da pandemia de COVID-19 foi definir pelo retorno às aulas presenciais. Protocolos de Segurança estão bem desenhados e estabelecidos, porém existem limites operacionais, físicos e, sobretudo, o problema da adesão às medidas de proteção e prevenção. Detectar os infectados pelo SARS-CoV-2 de forma rápida, simples e on-site é altamente desejável e recomendado para superar tais limitações sendo uma das medidas recomendadas pelo CDC dos EUA para permitir manter escolas abertas e a educação presencial. No Brasil essa é uma medida excepcional e, pelo melhor que sabemos, a nossa experiência se não for a única é das poucas e, certamente, a mais numerosa. No Ecossistema Ânima de Educação, que compreende universidades, faculdades e escolas em todo o Brasil, com mais de 300.000 alunos e cerca de 20.000 educadores, desde dezembro de 2020 introduzimos um programa piloto “COVID Free”. Em unidades selecionadas, além de todas as medidas de proteção, adotamos a testagem point of care para detecção do antígeno do núcleocapsídeo do SARS-CoV-2. Para tanto utilizamos - na área de entrada, em ambiente dedicado, seguro e arejado realizado por uma equipe de saúde treinada - a testagem com o teste nasal (Panbio - AbbottR) a cada 72 horas ou nas visitas pontuais de todos os alunos, educadores e terceiros que frequentam as unidades “COVID Free”. Até o início de setembro em duas unidades COVID Free realizamos 18.000 testes com a detecção de 41 casos (0,23% positividade) assintomáticos ou oligossintomáticos. Entre eles foi possível identificar duas variantes gama quando ela crescia no Brasil. A testagem mostrou-se extremamente importante no contexto epidemiológico em que foi realizada (aumento de casos, superlotação de leitos, crescimento da variante gama e depois delta) e permitiu que mantivéssemos o ecossistema livre de surtos ou interrupções das atividades além de aumentar em toda a coletividade a percepção de segurança. Concluímos que a testagem é uma atividade estratégica e essencial em cenários desafiadores para garantir o retorno seguro às atividades de educação e ensino permitindo que se extrapole essas conclusões para outros setores da atividade econômica. O desafio que persiste é de assegurar a sustentabilidade financeira da mesma.

Abstract Background Despite clinical practice guideline recommendations that cardiovascular disease patients participate, cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs are highly unavailable and underutilized. This is particularly true in low-resource settings, where the epidemic is at its’ worst. The reasons are complex, and include health system, program and patient-level barriers. This is the first study to assess barriers at all these levels concurrently, and to do so in a low-resource setting. Methods In this cross-sectional study, data from three cohorts (healthcare administrators, CR coordinators and patients) were triangulated. Healthcare administrators from all institutions offering cardiac services, and providers from all CR programs in public and private institutions of Minas Gerais state, Brazil were invited to complete a questionnaire. Patients from a random subsample of 12 outpatient cardiac clinics and 11 CR programs in these institutions completed the CR Barriers Scale. Results Thirty-two (35.2%) healthcare administrators, 16 (28.6%) CR providers and 805 cardiac patients (305 [37.9%] attending CR) consented to participate. Administrators recognized the importance of CR, but also the lack of resources to deliver it; CR providers noted referral is lacking. Patients who were not enrolled in CR reported significantly greater barriers related to comorbidities/functional status, perceived need, personal/family issues and access than enrollees, and enrollees reported travel/work conflicts as greater barriers than non-enrollees (all p

Background: We investigated impacts of COVID-19 on cardiac rehabilitation (CR) delivery around the globe, including virtual delivery, as well as effects on providers and patients. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a piloted survey was administered to CR programs globally via REDCap from April to June 2020. The 50 members of the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation (ICCPR) and personal contacts facilitated program identification. Results: Overall, 1062 (18.3% program response rate) responses were received from 70/111 (63.1% country response rate) countries in the world with existent CR programs. Of these, 367 (49.1%) programs reported they had stopped CR delivery, and 203 (27.1%) stopped temporarily (mean = 8.3 ± 2.8 weeks). Alternative models were delivered in 322 (39.7%) programs, primarily through low-tech modes (n = 226,19.3%). Furthermore, 353 (30.2%) respondents were re-deployed, and 276 (37.3%) felt the need to work due to fear of losing their job, despite the perceived risk of contracting COVID-19 (mean = 30.0% ± 27.4/100). Also, 266 (22.5%) reported anxiety, 241(20.4%) were concerned about exposing their family, 113 (9.7%) reported increased workload to transition to remote delivery, and 105 (9.0%) were juggling caregiving responsibilities during business hours. Patients were often contacting staff regarding grocery shopping for heart-healthy foods (n = 333, 28.4%), how to use technology to interact with the program (n = 329, 27.9%), having to stop their exercise because they have no place to exercise (n = 303, 25.7%), and their risk of death from COVID-19 due to pre-existing cardiovascular disease (n = 249, 21.2%). Respondents perceived staff (n = 488, 41.3%) and patient (n = 453, 38.6%) personal protective equipment, as well as COVID-19 screening (n = 414, 35.2%), and testing (n = 411, 35.0%) as paramount to in-person service resumption. Conclusion: Given the estimated number of CR programs globally, these results suggest approximately 4400 CR programs globally have ceased or temporarily stopped service delivery. Those that remain open are implementing new technologies to ensure their patients receive CR safely, despite the challenges. Highlights: COVID-19 has impacted cardiac rehabilitation (CR) delivery around the globe. In this cross-sectional study, a survey was completed by 1062 (18.3%) CR programs from 70 (63.1%) countries. The pandemic has resulted in at least temporary cessation of ~75% of CR programs, with others ceasing initiation of new patients, reducing components delivered, and/or changing of mode delivery with little opportunity for planning and training. There is also significant psychosocial and economic impact on CR providers. Alternative CR model (e.g., home-based, virtual) reimbursement advocacy is needed, to ensure safe, accessible secondary prevention delivery.

Background: Patient education is the first step in implementing a cardiac rehabilitation (CR) program and a powerful tool for promoting behavioral changes in cardiac patients. In China, the clinical workload is so heavy that a short and reliable tool for assessing disease-related knowledge is needed for targeted patient education. Objective: The aim of this study was to translate, adapt and validate the Chinese version of the Coronary Artery Disease Education Questionnaire – Short Version (CADE-Q SV). Methods: The CADE-Q SV was translated to simplified Chinese and culturally adapted to the Chinese context. The translated version was reviewed by a committee of seven experts in cardiovascular disease, and the content validity of the questionnaire was established. The psychometric properties of the questionnaire were analyzed considering the responses of 240 CR patients. The Kuder-Richardson-20 (KR-20) coefficient and Cronbach’s alpha were used to assess internal consistency. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to assess test-retest reliability. The criterion-related validity was evaluated by determining whether there were differences in the total scores of patients with different educational levels. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to assess the factor structure. Results: Three items from the original version were adapted to reflect Chinese culture. The content validity index was 0.94. The KR-20 score was 0.856. All ICC values were > 0.70. The knowledge scores of patients with different educational levels were significantly different, indicating that the criterion-related validity of the Chinese CADE-Q-SV was acceptable. CFA validated the five-factor structure of the Chinese CADE-Q-SV. Conclusion: The Chinese CADE-Q SV questionnaire has good reliability and validity. This short, efficient tool can be completed quickly, assess disease-related knowledge in cardiovascular patients and serve as a reference for individualized patient education in China. It can also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of CR-related patient education interventions.

Abstract Objective: Identify the associations between perineal outcome in primiparas and interventions during labor and delivery, newborn weight and APGAR score. Method: Document-based, correlational, retrospective, quantitative study conducted in a tertiary maternity hospital in the state of Ceará, between July 2017 and January 2018. The independent variables were labor induction, amniotomy, non-pharmaceutical methods for relieving pain, forceps, episiotomy, Kristeller maneuver, position in the expulsion stage, shoulder dystocia, and newborn weight and APGAR score, and the dependent variable was perineal outcome. Pearson's chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were used. Results: A total of 226 normal-risk primiparas who had a vaginal delivery. An association was found between horizontal position in the expulsion stage and episiotomy, and between not performing an episiotomy and perineal tearing. The other variables (labor, delivery and neonatal) did not have any effect on perineal tearing. Conclusion: Interventions, with the exception of episiotomies, did not have an influence on the occurrence of perineal trauma, but they do need to be carefully assessed. Deliveries in a horizontal position were associated with a higher likelihood of performing an episiotomy.

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) use is extremely low in India, and beyond. The reasons are multifactorial, including healthcare provider factors. This study examined CR perceptions among cardiologists in India. Attendees of the 2017 Cardiology Society of India conference completed a survey. Of 285 respondents, just over one-fourth had a CR program at their institution, with a similar proportion reporting someone dedicated to providing CR advice to their patients. Only 11 (3.9%) were correct in their responses to 4 multiple choice questions regarding secondary prevention. On average, cardiologists referred 20–30% of their patients, with the greatest barrier to referral being patient disinterest. Keywords: Physicians’ practice patterns, Patient care management, Cardiac rehabilitation

Background Despite the epidemic of cardiovascular diseases in middle‐income countries, few trials are testing the benefits of cardiac rehabilitation (CR). This trial assessed (1) maintenance of functional capacity, risk factor control, knowledge, and heart‐health behaviors and (2) mortality and morbidity at 6 months following CR in a middle‐income country. Methods and Results Eligible Brazilian coronary patients were initially randomized (1:1:1 concealed) to 1 of 3 parallel arms (comprehensive CR [exercise plus education], exercise‐only CR, or wait‐list control). The CR programs were 6 months in duration, at which point follow‐up assessments were performed. Mortality and morbidity were ascertained from chart and patient or family report (blinded). Controls were then offered CR (crossover). Outcomes were again assessed 6 months later (blinded). ANCOVA was performed for each outcome at 12 months. Overall, 115 (88.5%) patients were randomized, and 62 (53.9%) were retained at 1 year. At 6 months, 23 (58.9%) of those 39 initially randomized to the wait‐list control elected to attend CR. Functional capacity, risk factors, knowledge, and heart‐health behaviors were maintained from 6 to 12 months in participants from both CR arms (all P>0.05). At 1 year, knowledge was significantly greater with comprehensive CR at either time point (P

Abstract 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.

Abstract Background: Patient education is an essential part of cardiovascular patients' care targeting self-management behavior to reduce risk factors and subsequent events. Herein, a short and reliable tool to assess patients' knowledge in Brazil is warranted. Objectives: To translate, culturally-adapt and psychometrically validate the Portuguese version of the Coronary Artery Disease Education Questionnaire Short Version (CADE-Q SV). Methods: The Portuguese CADE-Q SV - translated and culturally-adapted - was reviewed by five bilingual experts in cardiovascular disease. This version was then pre-tested in 21 patients, and clarity of items was checked using a Likert-type scale ranging from 1 = not clear to 10 = very clear. It was then psychometrically tested in 200 cardiovascular patients (41%women; mean age = 58.4 ± 11.6 years old). The internal consistency was assessed using Kuder-Richardson-20 (KR-20) and Cronbach's alpha, test-retest reliability through intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), factor structure using confirmatory factor analysis, and construct validity regarding educational level, family income, and time of diagnosis. Results: All questions were considered clear by patients (clarity range:7.8-9.6). KR-20 was 0.70. All ICC values were > 0.70. Factor analysis revealed 6 factors, all internally consistent. Construct validity was supported by significant differences in total scores by educational level and family income (p < 0.001). The overall mean was 13.08 ± 2.61. The area with the highest knowledge was risk factors and the lowest was psychosocial risk. Conclusions: The Portuguese CADE-SV was demonstrated to have good validity and reliability. This tool can be applicable in clinical and research settings, assessing cardiovascular patients' knowledge as part of an education programming.

Abstract 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.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar levantamento quanto a noções de sustentabilidade e conscientização ambiental; analisar e comparar o nível de conhecimento sobre ecologia básica e avaliar a eficácia da abordagem lúdica para incutir informações sobre meio ambiente e ecologia entre alunos de escolas públicas e privadas. Foram selecionados 234 alunos do 5º ao 8º ano e adotadas aulas teóricas bem como visitas ao Laboratório de Ecologia da UFTM. Antes e após a visita um questionário com perguntas objetivas foi aplicado a 192 alunos escolhidos aleatoriamente, assim como uma avaliação aberta com questões dissertativas sobre as opiniões e atitudes do dia a dia. A correção dos questionários aplicado antes da aula mostrou a falta de embasamento teórico. No segundo questionário, observou-se que houve um aproveitamento razoável, mas ainda há necessidade de incorporar os conhecimentos no cotidiano e realmente assimilar conceitos básicos. O modelo adotado no nosso experimento foi inadequado para a proposta inicial e aparentemente não produziu resultados satisfatórios.

Identifying the barriers in the access to health care to breast cancer perceived by women undergoing chemotherapy.Method: An exploratory descriptive study. The sample consisted of 58 women with breast cancer receiving chemotherapy and registered in the public oncology ambulatory of Aracaju-Sergipe. Data collection was carried out between October 2011 and March 2012 by semistructured interviews, and data were processed using the SPSS, version 17.Results: Among the interviewed women, 37 (63.8%) reported at least a barrier in the trajectory of care for breast cancer. The organizational and health services barriers were the most reported in the periods of investigation and treatment of breast cancer.Conclusion: In face of these findings, the barriers should be considered in public health policies and programs for the control of breast cancer in Sergipe.

Fundamento: A ausência de instrumentos capazes de mensurar o nível de conhecimento de pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca sobre sua própria síndrome, participantes de programas de reabilitação, demonstra a carência de recomendações específicas a respeito da quantidade ou do conteúdo de informações necessárias. Objetivo: Construir e validar um questionário para avaliar o conhecimento sobre sua condição de pacientes portadores de insuficiência cardíaca participantes de programas de reabilitação cardíaca. Métodos: O instrumento foi construído com base no questionário de conhecimento para doença coronariana e aplicado em 96 pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca, com média de idade de 60,22 ± 11,6 anos, 64% homens. A reprodutibilidade foi obtida por meio do coeficiente de correlação intraclasse, utilizando-se as situações do método de teste-reteste. A consistência interna foi obtida pelo alfa de Cronbach e a validade do construto, pela análise fatorial exploratória. Resultados: A versão final do instrumento apresentou 19 questões dispostas em dez áreas de importância para a educação do paciente. O instrumento proposto apresentou um índice de clareza de 8,94 ± 0,83. O valor do coeficiente de correlação intraclasse foi de 0,856 e do alfa de Cronbach, 0,749. A análise fatorial revelou cinco fatores associados às áreas de conhecimento. Quando os escores finais foram comparados com as características da população, verificou-se que baixa escolaridade e baixa renda estão significativamente associadas a baixos escores de conhecimento. Conclusão: O instrumento possui índice de clareza satisfatório e de validade adequado, podendo ser utilizado para avaliar o conhecimento de pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca participantes de programas de reabilitação cardíaca.

A Reforma Psiquiátrica visou uma substituição dos hospitais psiquiátricos e manicômios através da efetivação Centros de Atenção Psicossocial (CAPS), caracterizados pelo Ministério da Saúde como um serviço de saúde de caráter aberto e comunitário, composto por equipe multiprofissional e interdisciplinar, com ações sobre o indivíduo, grupos em conjunto e familiares. A partir disso, qual é o presente perfil epidemiológico e clinico das doenças psiquiátricas acolhidas pelo CAPS de Anápolis e como o entendimento desse perfil pode ajudar - no aspecto econômico, social – na melhora da qualidade do serviço para a população de Anápolis, se tendo uma delimitação de quais seriam as dificuldades econômicas e sociais que o Centro de Atenção em Saúde mental enfrenta por uma possível sobrecarga número de pacientes que precisam ser atendidos. Desta forma, o estudo será do tipo epidemiológico, transversal e descritivo, utilizando-se de dados diagnósticos e de tratamento presentes nos prontuários do CAPS de Anápolis, no ano de 2019.

FUNDAMENTO: Grande parte da relação entre o estado de saúde e o conhecimento sobre saúde e doença pode ser atribuída aos efeitos combinados de comportamento dísparrelacionado à saúde, condições ambientais e estruturas socioeconômicas, bem como o contato com a atenção à saúde e prestação da mesma. OBJETIVO: O objetivo do presente estudo foi descrever e comparar o conhecimento dos pacientes com doença arterial coronariana (DAC),incluídos em programas de reabilitação cardíaca (RC) no Brasil e no Canadá, sobre os fatores relacionados à DAC. MÉTODOS: Duas amostras de 300 pacientes brasileiros e 300 pacientes canadensesincluídos em RC foram comparadas transversalmente. Os pacientes brasileiros foram recrutados de dois centros de RC no Sul do Brasil, enquanto os pacientes canadenses foram recrutados de um centro de RC em Ontário. O conhecimento foi avaliado utilizando o Questionário de Educação de Doença Arterial Coronariana (CADE-Q), psicometricamente validado em Português e Inglês. Os dados foram processados por meio de estatísticas descritivas, post-hoc eteste t de Student. RESULTADOS: A pontuação média total de conhecimento para toda a amostra foi de 41,42 ± 9,3. Os entrevistados canadenses apresentaram pontuações totais de conhecimento significativamente maiores do que os entrevistados brasileiros. O domínio mais bem esclarecido em ambas as amostras foi o exercício físico.Em 13 de 19 questões, os entrevistados canadenses relataram pontuações de conhecimento significativamente maiores do que os entrevistados brasileiros. CONCLUSÃO: Pacientes ambulatoriais canadenses relataram conhecimento significativamente maior que suas contrapartes brasileiras. Os resultados também sugeremque um currículo educacional estruturado em programas de RC pode contribuir para um maior conhecimentodo paciente, o que pode em última análise facilitar as mudanças comportamentais.

FUNDAMENTO: As doenças cardiovasculares possuem alta incidência e prevalência no Brasil, porém a participação na Reabilitação Cardíaca (RC) é limitada e pouco investigada no país. A Escala de Barreiras para Reabilitação Cardíaca (CRBS) foi desenvolvida para avaliar as barreiras à participação e aderência à RC. OBJETIVO: Traduzir, adaptar culturalmente e validar psicometricamente a CRBS para a língua portuguesa do Brasil. MÉTODOS: Duas traduções iniciais independentes foram realizadas. Após a tradução reversa, ambas versões foram revisadas por um comitê. A versão gerada foi testada em 173 pacientes com doença arterial coronariana (48 mulheres, idade média = 63 anos). Desses, 139 (80,3%) participantes de RC. A consistência interna foi avaliada pelo alfa de Cronbach, a confiabilidade teste-reteste pelo coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (ICC) e a validade de construto por análise fatorial. Testes-T foram utilizados para avaliar a validade de critério entre participantes e não participantes de RC. Os resultados da aplicação em função das características dos pacientes (gênero, idade, estado de saúde e grau de escolaridade) foram avaliados. RESULTADOS: A versão em português da CRBS apresentou alfa de Cronbach de 0,88, ICC de 0,68 e revelou cinco fatores, cuja maioria apresentou-se internamente consistente e todos definidos pelos itens. O escore médio para pacientes em RC foi 1,29 (desvio padrão = 0,27) e para pacientes do ambulatório 2,36 (desvio padrão = 0,50) (p < 0,001). A validade de critério foi apoiada também por diferenças significativas nos escores totais por sexo, idade e nível educacional. CONCLUSÃO: A versão em português da CRBS apresenta validade e confiabilidade adequadas, apoiando sua utilização em estudos futuros.

Objective: To investigate hematologic variables related to iron deficiency and food intake in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Method: The sample comprised 62 children and adolescents (6-15 years old) divided into three groups: Group 1: 19 (30.6%) patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder using methylphenidate for 3 months; Group 2: 22 (35.5%) patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder who were methylphenidate naïve and Group 3: 21 (33.9%) patients without attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Serum iron, ferritin, transferrin, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, red cell distribution width, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, nutritional diagnostic parameters - Body Mass Index Coefficient, food surveys were evaluated among the groups. Results: The attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder group drug naïve for methylphenidate presented the highest red cell distribution width among the three groups (p = 0.03). For all other hematologic and food survey variables, no significant differences were found among the groups. No significant correlation between dimensional measures of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms and ferritin levels was found in any of the three groups. Conclusion: Peripheral markers of iron status and food intake of iron do not seem to be modified in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, but further studies assessing brain iron levels are needed to fully understand the role of iron in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder pathophysiology.Objetivo: Investigar as variáveis hematológicas relacionadas à deficiência de ferro e à ingestão alimentar no transtorno de déficit de atenção/hiperatividade. Método: Sessenta e duas crianças e adolescentes (6-15 anos) divididos em três grupos: Grupo 1: 19 (30,6%) pacientes com transtorno de déficit de atenção/hiperatividade com uso de metilfenidato durante três meses; Grupo 2: 22 (35,5%) pacientes com transtorno de déficit de atenção/hiperatividade sem uso de medicamento; e Grupo 3: 21 (33,9%) pacientes sem transtorno de déficit de atenção/hiperatividade. Ferro sérico, ferritina, transferrina, hemoglobina, volume corpuscular médio, amplitude de distribuição dos eritrócitos, concentração da hemoglobina corpuscular média, parâmetros de diagnóstico nutricional - Coeficiente de Índice de Massa Corporal, inquérito alimentar e a correlação entre os sintomas do transtorno e os níveis de ferritina foram avaliados. Resultados: O grupo com transtorno de déficit de atenção/hiperatividade não medicado com metilfenidato apresentou maior amplitude de distribuição dos eritrócitos dentre os três grupos (p = 0,03). Nas outras variáveis hematológicas e inquéritos alimentares não encontramos diferença significativa entre os grupos. Não observamos correlação entre os sintomas do transtorno de déficit de atenção/hiperatividade e ferritina. Conclusão: Marcadores periféricos do estado nutricional de ferro e a ingestão alimentar de ferro não parecem estar modificados em crianças com transtorno de déficit de atenção/hiperatividade, mas mais estudos avaliando os níveis de ferro no cérebro são necessários para compreensão plena do papel do ferro na fisiopatologia do transtorno de déficit de atenção/hiperatividade.

FUNDAMENTO: O conhecimento sobre a doença arterial coronariana pode ser considerado o primeiro passo para reduzir o risco de complicações cardíacas. OBJETIVOS: Construir e validar um instrumento capaz de avaliar e descrever o conhecimento do paciente coronariano em programas de reabilitação cardíaca, com a finalidade de educação. MÉTODOS: Para construção, foi realizada análise de artigos e estudo de campo para a apresentação de itens a uma equipe multidisciplinar associada à reabilitação cardíaca. Após análise, foi gerada a versão testada em um estudo-piloto. O instrumento, nomeado CADE-Q (Questionário para Educação do Paciente Coronariano), foi aplicado em 155 pacientes com idade de 61 ± 9 anos (mín = 36 ; máx = 86), participantes de programas de reabilitação cardíaca. Dos 155 pacientes, 114 eram homens. A consistência interna foi verificada pelo coeficiente Alpha de Cronbach. A reprodutibilidade foi testada através do coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (CCIC) e a validade de construto por análise fatorial exploratória. Foi realizada análise comparando os escores totais em função de características da população e entre os grupos de reabilitação (privado e público). RESULTADOS: A versão final possui 19 questões com 4 alternativas, com 4 quadrantes de conhecimento. O Alpha de Cronbach foi de 0,68 e CCIC foi de 0,783. A análise fatorial revelou 6 fatores, abrangendo três áreas de conhecimento, o que demonstra a multifatoriedade do instrumento. A análise das características da população em função do escore total apresentou diferenças significativas em função das variáveis do nível socioeconômico (tipo de reabilitação, renda familiar e escolaridade). CONCLUSÃO: O instrumento CADE-Q apresenta validade e confiabilidade adequadas para sua utilização na população brasileira em futuras pesquisas.BACKGROUND: Being aware of the coronary artery disease can be considered the first step to reduce the risk of cardiac complications. OBJECTIVE: Building and validating a tool to assess and describe coronary patients' awareness in cardiac rehabilitation programs, with the purpose of education. METHODS: For the construction, we analyzed articles and field studies to submit items to multidisciplinary team associated to cardiac rehabilitation. After this analysis, we generated the version tested in a pilot study. The tool, named CADE-Q (Questionnaire for Coronary Patient Education) was applied in 155 patients aged 61 ± 9 (min = 36, max = 86) in response to cardiac rehabilitation programs. Out of the 155 patients, 114 were men. Internal consistency was measured by Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Reproducibility was tested by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and construct validity was performed by exploratory factor analysis. The analysis compared the total scores as a function population characteristics and rehabilitation groups (private and public). RESULTS: The final version has 19 questions with 4 alternatives, with 4 quadrants of awareness. Cronbach's alpha was 0.68 and ICC was 0.783. The factor analysis revealed 6 factors, covering three areas of awareness, which demonstrates the multifactorial nature of the instrument. The population characteristics as a function of the total score showed significant differences depending on the socioeconomic status variables (type of rehabilitation, household income and education level). CONCLUSION: CADE-Q has proper validity and reliability to be used in the Brazilian population in future research.

As doenças cardiovasculares (DCV) lideram os índices de morbidade e mortalidade no Brasil e no mundo, sendo a doença arterial coronariana (DAC) a causa de um grande número de mortes e de gastos em assistência médica. Inúmeros fatores de risco para a DAC estão diretamente relacionados à disfunção endotelial. A presença desses fatores de risco induz a diminuição da biodisponibilidade de óxido nítrico (NO), o aumento da formação de radicais livres (RL) e o aumento da atividade endotelial. Essas mudanças podem levar a uma capacidade vasodilatadora prejudicada. Inúmeras intervenções são realizadas no tratamento da DAC, incluindo agentes farmacológicos, mudança nos hábitos alimentares, suplementação nutricional e exercício físico regular, cujos efeitos benéficos sobre a função endotelial vêm sendo demonstrados em experimentos com animais e humanos. Entretanto, a literatura ainda é controversa quanto à intensidade de esforço necessária para provocar alterações protetoras significativas na função endotelial. Da mesma forma, exercícios intensos estão também relacionados ao aumento no consumo de oxigênio e ao consequente aumento na formação de radicais livres de oxigênio (RLO).Las enfermedades cardiovasculares (ECV) lideran los índices de morbilidad y mortalidad en Brasil y en el mundo, siendo la enfermedad arterial coronaria (EAC) la causa de un gran número de muertes y de gastos en asistencia médica. Numerosos factores de riesgo para EAC están directamente relacionados a la disfunción endotelial. La presencia de estos factores de riesgo induce la disminución de la biodisponibilidad de óxido nítrico (NO), el aumento de la formación de radicales libres (RL) y el aumento de la actividad endotelial. Esos cambios pueden perjudicar la capacidad vasodilatadora. En el tratamiento de la EAC se realizan numerosas intervenciones, incluyendo agentes farmacológicos, cambio en los hábitos alimentarios, suplemento nutricional y ejercicio físico regular, cuyos efectos benéficos sobre la función endotelial han sido demostrados en experimentos con animales y humanos. Sin embargo, la literatura es aún controvertida en cuanto a la intensidad de esfuerzo necesaria para provocar alteraciones protectoras significativas en la función endotelial. De la misma forma, los ejercicios intensos están también relacionados al aumento en el consumo de oxígeno y al consiguiente aumento en la formación de radicales libres de oxigeno (RLO).Cardiovascular diseases are the leaders in morbidity and mortality rates in Brazil and worldwide, being coronary heart disease (CHD) the cause of a large number of deaths and high expenditure on medical assistance. Quite a number of risk factors for CHD are directly related to endothelial dysfunction. Those risk factors induce decreased bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO), the increase of free radicals (FR), and increased endothelial activity. Those changes may lead to vasodilation impairment. Many interventions are performed to treat CHD. Pharmacological agents, a change in eating habits, nutritional supplements and physical exercise on a regular basis are some of those interventions. The benefits of physical exercise on a regular basis over endothelial function have been demonstrated in experiments with animals and humans. However, data in the literature are still controversial as to the required intensity level to result in significantly protective changes in endothelial function. Intense exercising is also related to higher oxygen consumption and to a resulting increase of oxygen free radicals (OFR).

FUNDAMENTO: O Maugerl CaRdiac preventiOn-Questionnaire (MICRO-Q) é um instrumento específico, validado e utilizado para avaliar o conhecimento do paciente coronariano sobre aspectos relacionados à prevenção secundária da doença arterial coronariana (DAC). OBJETIVO: Traduzir, adaptar e validar o MICRO-Q para a língua portuguesa do Brasil. MÉTODOS: Duas traduções iniciais independentes foram realizadas para o português. Após sua comparação foi feita a tradução reversa, que foi revisada por um comitê e gerou a versão final, testada em um estudo-piloto. O instrumento foi aplicado em 212 pacientes coronarianos, com idade média de 60 a 72 anos (desvio padrão = 9,4; mín = 35; máx = 86), participantes de programas de reabilitação cardíaca. A consistência interna foi verificada por meio do coeficiente Alpha de Cronbach, a correlação através do Spearman Rho e a validade de construto foi verificada por análise fatorial exploratória. As médias foram analisadas comparando as escalas das questões corretas em função de variáveis, como idade, sexo, comorbidades associadas, grau de escolaridade, renda familiar, entre outros. RESULTADOS: A versão brasileira do MICRO-Q possui 25 questões. Essa versão, quanto à confiabilidade, apresentou Alpha de Cronbach de 0,64 e Spearman Rho das respostas corretas de 0,65. A análise fatorial revelou a existência de 6 fatores, relacionados aos domínios de conhecimento do questionário. A análise das características da população, em função das escalas das questões corretas, apresentou diferenças significativas apenas em função da renda familiar mensal e grau de escolaridade. CONCLUSÃO: A versão brasileira do MICRO-Q aprovada apresenta validade e confiabilidade adequadas para sua utilização em futuras pesquisas.BACKGROUND: The Maugerl CaRdiac preventiOn-Questionnaire (MICRO-Q) is a validated specific tool used to assess the knowledge of the patient with coronary disease on aspects related to the secondary prevention of coronary artery disease (CAD). OBJECTIVE: To translate, adapt and validate the MICRO-Q to Brazilian Portuguese. METHODS: Two initial independent translations were carried out into Brazilian Portuguese. After their comparison, the reverse translation was carried out, which was reviewed by a committee and generated the final version that was tested in a pilot study. The tool was applied to 212 coronary patients, with a mean age of 60 to 71 years (standard deviation = 9.4; range: 35-86) that participated in cardiac rehabilitation programs. The internal consistency was verified by Cronbach's Alpha Coefficient, correlation through Spearman's Rho and the validity of the construct was verified through exploratory factorial analysis. The means were analyzed by comparing the scales of the correct questions in relation to variables such as age, sex, associate comorbidities, degree of schooling, family income, among others. RESULTS: The Brazilian version of the MICRO-Q has 25 questions. The reliability of this version presented a Cronbach's Alpha Coefficient of 0.64 and a Spearman's Rho of the correct answers of 0.65. The factorial analysis showed 6 factors related to the domains of knowledge of the questionnaire. The analysis of the population characteristics regarding the scales of the correct questions presented significant differences only in relation to monthly family income and degree of schooling. CONCLUSION: The approved Brazilian version of the MICRO-Q presents adequate validity and reliability for its use in future studies.

Background: The MICRO-Q (MaugerI 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

Considerava-se que o papel do endotélio era, sobretudo, de barreira seletiva para a difusão de macromoléculas da luz dos vasos sanguíneos para o espaço intersticial. Durante os últimos 20 anos, foram definidas muitas outras funções para o endotélio, como a regulação do tônus vagal, a promoção e inibição do crescimento neovascular e a modulação da inflamação, da agregação plaquetária e da coagulação. Esse achado é considerado um dos mais importantes conceitos da biologia vascular moderna. Atualmente, a aterosclerose é o protótipo da doença caracterizada em todas as suas fases por uma disfunção endotelial, que é definida como uma oferta insuficiente de óxido nítrico (ON), o qual dispõe o endotélio a estresse oxidativo, inflamação, erosão e vasoconstrição. Nesse sentido, numerosos estudos experimentais têm demonstrado que o exercício físico é capaz de restaurar e melhorar a função endotelial. O impacto do exercício no endotélio vem sendo amplamente discutido. Diante de seu efeito vasodilatador e sobre os fatores de risco, tornou-se insustentável a hipótese de tratamento da doença arterial coronariana e de seus desfechos sem a inclusão do exercício físico. Entretanto, a literatura ainda é controversa quanto à intensidade de esforço necessária para provocar alterações protetoras significativas na função endotelial. Ainda, a relação entre exercícios intensos e aumento no consumo de oxigênio, com consequente aumento na formação de radicais livres, também é discutida.

INTRODUÇÃO: Vários estudos têm apontado Ilex paraguariensis (erva-mate) como coadjuvante no manejo da obesidade. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar ingestão alimentar, peso corporal, volume da diurese, quantidade de gordura abdominal, triglicérides e colesterol total plasmáticos de ratos Wistar machos tratados com extrato aquoso de Ilex paraguariensis. MÉTODOS: Formaram-se dois grupos de seis animais cada, um controle e outro tratado. O tratado recebia extrato de Ilex paraguariensis e o controle, água para hidratação. Todos receberam ração padrão. Para o preparo do extrato da erva, misturava-se 1 L de água aquecida à 80 ºC e 70 g de erva-mate. Em 15 minutos, essa mistura era coada. Após 8 semanas, os animais foram colocados em gaiolas metabólicas para avaliar a ingestão alimentar e hídrica e o volume de diurese e fezes. Nesse período, foi aferido o peso, foram coletadas amostras de sangue para quantificar triglicérides e colesterol e a gordura abdominal foi dissecada após a morte dos animais. Na análise estatística, foi utilizado o teste t de Student para o tratamento de todos os resultados, e P < 0,05 foi considerado significativo. RESULTADOS: Ingestão alimentar e hídrica, diurese, fezes e peso dos animais não apresentaram qualquer diferença significativa, assim como os níveis de triglicérides. A quantidade de gordura abdominal, assim como os níveis de colesterol, foi significativamente menor nos animais tratados. CONCLUSÃO: O extrato da erva-mate parece ter influência sobre o metabolismo dos lipídios sem interferir no peso corporal nem na ingestão alimentar e hídrica.