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ABSTRACT Importance The 3‐min step test is a simple option to monitor submaximal exercise capacity, although its use via remote video monitoring has not been investigated in children with cystic fibrosis (CF). Objective This study aimed to assess the feasibility and reproducibility of performing the 3‐min step test with remote supervision. Methods A cross‐sectional study including CF patients (6–18 years) from two CF services were performed. Demographic, anthropometric, clinical, and lung function data were collected and two 3‐min step tests were performed: (i) in‐person supervision, and (ii) remotely supervised by video monitoring. Before and after the tests, heart rate (HR), oxygen saturation (SpO2), and the Borg score for dyspnea and lower limb fatigue were monitored. Results Twenty‐three patients (10.7 ± 3.7 years) with a mean FEV1 of 89.5% ± 23.2% were included. There were no significant differences between tests, with mean differences (95% confidence intervals) in final HR of –3.3 (–8.9, 2.4), change in HR of –1.9 (–6.1, 2.1), final SpO2 of 0.3 (–0.4, 1.0), and final dyspnea of 0.1 (–0.8, 0.9). The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.852 (final HR), 0.762 (final SpO2), and 0.775 (final lower limb fatigue). Significant and moderate correlations were found between tests for final HR (r = 0.75), change in HR (r = 0.61), and final SpO2 (r = 0.61). The Bland–Altman analysis showed a mean difference in final SpO2 between tests of 0.3% (limit of agreement –3.0%, 3.5%). Interpretation Physiological responses between tests were similar, indicating it was feasible to perform the 3‐min step test with remote supervision in CF children.

Abstract Background Despite the improvements in the completeness of reporting of randomized trial protocols after the publication of the Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trial (SPIRIT) guidelines, many items remain poorly reported. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of using SPIRIT-tailored templates for trial protocols to improve the completeness of reporting of the protocols that master’s students write as part of their master’s theses. Methods Before and after experimental study performed at the University Master’s Degree in Orthopaedic Manual Physiotherapy of the Universitat Internacional de Catalunya (Barcelona, Spain). While students in the post-intervention period were instructed to use a trial protocol template that was tailored to SPIRIT, students in the pre-intervention period did not use the template. Primary outcome: Difference between the pre- and post-intervention periods in the mean number of adequately reported items (0–10 scale). The outcomes were evaluated independently and in duplicate by two blinded assessors. Students and their supervisors were not aware that they were part of a research project. For the statistical analysis, we used a generalized linear regression model (dependent variable: number of adequately reported items in the protocol; independent variables: intervention period, call, language). Results Thirty-four trial protocols were included (17, pre-intervention; 17, post-intervention). Protocols produced during the post-intervention period (mean: 8.24; SD: 1.52) were more completely reported than those produced during the pre-intervention period (mean: 6.35; SD: 1.80); adjusted difference: 1.79 (95% CI: 0.58 to 3.00). Conclusions SPIRIT-based templates could be used to improve the completeness of reporting of randomized trial protocols.

Background: The International Study of Wheezing in Infants defines recurrent wheezing as the presence of three or more medically documented episodes of wheezing within one year. To date, there is no evidence on the use of hypertonic saline (HS) combined with airway clearance techniques (ACT) for children with recurrent wheezing treated in an outpatient setting. Therefore, this is the first study to explore the use of such interventions in infants with recurrent wheezing. Objectives: To evaluate the effects and safety of a three-month protocol including HS and ACT for non-hospitalized infants with recurrent wheezing. Methods: Randomized, double-blind, controlled trial, including outpatient infants with recurrent wheezing. Children were randomized to either 3% HS or 0.9% saline groups and were treated with bronchodilator and nebulized with the respective solutions before ACT. The primary outcome was the Wang score. Secondary outcomes included the number of hospitalizations and respiratory crisis, need for rescue medication, and school absences. All variables were measured during the three previous months from inclusion and during intervention period. The study protocol was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04331496) on March, 31, 2020. Results: Forty children were included. Regarding immediate effects, significant differences ([Formula: see text]) were found for time, but not for group or interaction (group × time), in all outcome variables (increase in SpO2, decrease in heart and respiratory rate, wheezing episodes, retraction, and Wang score). Comparing the previous three months with the study period, there were significant differences in both groups for the severity of crisis ([Formula: see text]) and medication steps ([Formula: see text]). Conclusion: A three-month protocol including HS and ACT for outpatient infants with recurrent wheezing was safe and reduced morbidity. No differences were found between the use of HS and 0.9% saline.

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare lung function between adolescents with and without substance use disorder (SUD). Methods: This was an observational, cross-sectional exploratory study. The sample consisted of 16 adolescents with SUD and 24 age-matched healthy controls. The adolescents in the clinical group were recruited from a psychiatric inpatient unit for detoxification and rehabilitation; their primary diagnosis was SUD related to marijuana, cocaine, or polysubstance use. Questionnaires and pulmonary function tests were applied for clinical evaluation. Results: We found that FVC, FEV1, and their percentages of the predicted values were significantly lower in the adolescents with SUD than in those without. Those differences remained significant after adjustment for BMI and the effects of high levels of physical activity. The largest effect size (Cohen’s d = 1.82) was found for FVC as a percentage of the predicted value (FVC%), which was, on average, 17.95% lower in the SUD group. In addition, the years of regular use of smoked substances (tobacco, marijuana, and crack cocaine) correlated negatively with the FVC%. Conclusions: This exploratory study is innovative in that it demonstrates the early consequences of smoked substance use for the lung health of adolescents with SUD.

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the impact of COVID-19 social distancing recommendations on nutritional status, pulmonary function, and morbidity in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Methods: A retrospective cohort study including patients older than six years with a diagnosis of CF was performed. Demographic and clinical data, anthropometric measurements, pulmonary function, days of antibiotic use, and length of hospital stay were recorded. Variables were recorded at three time points relative to the baseline for implementation of social distancing measures: T-1 (14 months before implementation), T0 (baseline), and T1 (14 months after implementation). Delta (Δ) was calculated for each period: Δ1 (pre-pandemic T0-T-1) and Δ2 (pandemic T1-T0). Results: The study included 25 patients, with a mean age of 11.7±4.3 years. The mean forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) was 85.6±23.6%, and body mass index (BMI) was 17.5±3.0 kg/m2. When comparing the two periods (Δ1 and Δ2), there was a significant increase in the FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio (p=0.013) and in the forced expiratory flow between 25 and 75% of vital capacity (FEF25–75%) (p=0.037) in the pandemic period. There was also a significant reduction (p=0.005) in the use of antibiotics in the pandemic period compared with the pre-pandemic period. The Δ1 and Δ2 values did not differ significantly for BMI, FEV1, or length of hospital stay. Conclusions: COVID-19 social distancing recommendations had a positive impact (decrease) on morbidity (use of antibiotics) and small airway obstruction (FEF25–75%) in patients with CF.

Background: Autonomic nervous system balance is altered in cystic fibrosis (CF), although its influence on physical fitness has been poorly explored. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the association of heart rate variability (HRV) with exercise capacity and levels of daily physical activity in children and adolescents with mild-to-moderate CF. Methods: A cross-sectional study including individuals with CF aged 6–18 years, not under CFTR modulator therapy, was performed. Sociodemographic (age, sex) and clinical information (airway colonization, pancreatic insufficiency, and genotyping) were collected. In addition, exercise capacity (modified shuttle test — MST), lung function (spirometry), body composition (bioimpedance), levels of daily physical activity (5-day accelerometer), and HRV (both at rest and during the MST) were evaluated. Results: 30 individuals (20 females) aged [Formula: see text] years, mean FEV[Formula: see text]%, were included. A sympathovagal balance (LF/HF) increase ([Formula: see text]) during the MST was shown, indicating a predominance of sympathetic modulation. The standard deviation of all RR intervals (SDNN) and the high frequency (HF) index during exercise correlated significantly with FEV1 ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]; respectively). MST distance also correlated positively and significantly with SDNN ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]), square root of the mean of the sums of squares of frequencies between RR intervals greater than 50[Formula: see text]ms — RMSSD ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]), low frequency — LF ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]), HF ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]), dispersion of points perpendicular to the short-term identity line — SD1 ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]) and negatively with LF/HF ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]). Regarding daily physical activity, SDNN at rest ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]) and exercise ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]) showed positive correlations with time in moderate-to-vigorous activities. When normalizing the SDNN and classifying individuals as normal or altered, those presenting altered SDNN showed poorest FEV1 ([Formula: see text]) and lower exercise capacity ([Formula: see text]). Conclusion: HRV correlates with lung function, exercise capacity and levels of daily physical activity in children and adolescents with CF. The study highlights the influence of CF on autonomic function and suggests HRV measurement as an easy tool to be used in clinical settings as an alternative marker to monitor CF individuals.

Abstract Objective: To analyze the lipid profile and cardiovascular risk of overweight and obese adolescents and correlate the findings with anthropometric measurements. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study on overweight and obese adolescents of both sexes (aged 14 to 18 years old). The collected variables were sex, weight, height, age, total cholesterol, triglycerides, High-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). The Atherogenic Index of Plasma and Castelli Risk Indices I and II were calculated. These indices were classified into cutoff points to stratify cardiovascular risk. The anthropometric profile was evaluated by Z score according to Body Mass Index for age. Significance level was considered as p≤0.05. Results: A total of 146 adolescents participated in the study; the mean age was 16.4±1.1 years and most of them were girls (74.7%) and obese (52.7%). The prevalent dyslipidemias were high triglycerides (47.9%), LDL (26.7%), total cholesterol (37.7%), and low HDL (46.6%). Most adolescents presented increased atherogenic risk according to the Atherogenic Index of Plasma (55.5%); 15.1% presented high cardiovascular risk according to Castelli Risk Index I; and 13.7%, according to Castelli Risk Index II. Boys presented higher values of anthropometric measurements and Castelli Risk Indices I and II in relation to girls — who, conversely, presented higher values of HDL. There was a positive correlation of the Z score with Atherogenic Index of Plasma and a negative correlation with HDL. Conclusions: The adolescents of the study presented high prevalence of cardiovascular and atherogenic risk according to the evaluated indices. In addition, the increased cardiovascular risk was correlated with higher Body Mass Index.

Resumen: Introducción: El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar el rendimiento diagnóstico de la pregunta relacionada con la actividad física del cuestionario de control del asma de la Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) para la detección de la broncoconstricción inducida por el ejercicio (BIE) en niños y adolescentes. Materiales y métodos: Se dividió a pacientes (de seis a 18 años de edad) con diagnóstico de asma en dos grupos de acuerdo con la clasificación de gravedad según el cuestionario GINA: asma leve/moderada (ALM) y asma grave refractaria (AGR). Se recogieron datos antropométricos, clínicos y funcionales (espirometría) y se realizó prueba de broncoprovocación con esfuerzo. Se utilizó la cuarta pregunta del cuestionario GINA, concerniente a los síntomas asociados con el esfuerzo físico, para evaluar el rendimiento diagnóstico de este instrumento. Resultados: Se incluyeron a 40 pacientes (17 con ALM y 23 con AGR) con una edad media de 11,3 años y un z-score medio de FEV1 de -0,33, de los que 13 (32,5%) se clasificaron como casos de asma no controlada. De los pacientes con enfermedad no controlada, siete (53,8%) mostraron caídas en el FEV1 tras la prueba de esfuerzo. Se observó una mayor frecuencia de BIE en sujetos con z-score de FEV1 < -1,0 en comparación con aquellos con un z-score ≥ -1,0 (p = 0,05). No hubo diferencias significativas en la frecuencia de BIE con base en la gravedad o el control de la enfermedad. Tampoco se observó asociación entre la pregunta cuatro (GINA) y la BIE. El área bajo la curva de características operativas del receptor (receiver operating characteristic, ROC) evidenció que el poder discriminatorio del cuestionario GINA resulta insuficiente para detectar la BIE (p = 0,41), con una sensibilidad del 42,1% y una especificidad del 57,1%. Conclusiones: La pregunta concerniente al ejercicio físico en el cuestionario GINA carece del poder diagnóstico necesario para detectar la BIE en niños y adolescentes asmáticos. Abstract: Introduction: The aim of the study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the item concerning physical activity of the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) asthma control questionnaire for detection of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) in children and adolescents. Material and methods: We divided participants (aged 6 to 18 years) with a diagnosis of asthma into two groups according to the GINA severity classification: mild/moderate asthma (MMA) and severe therapy-resistant asthma (STRA). We collected anthropometric, clinical and functional data (spirometry) and performed an EIB test. We used item 4 of the GINA questionnaire regarding exercise-induced symptoms to assess the diagnostic power of this instrument. Results: We included 40 patients (17 with MMA and 23 with STRA) with a mean age of 11.3 years and a mean FEV1 z-score of -0.33, of who 13 (32.5%) were classified as having uncontrolled asthma. Of the patients with uncontrolled asthma, 7 (53.8%) exhibited a decrease in the FEV1 after the EIB test. We found a higher frequency of EIB in participants with FEV1 z-score values of less than -1.0 compared to those with a z-score of -1.0 or greater (p = 0.05). There were no significant differences in the frequency of EIB based on disease severity and control. We also found no association of item 4 (GINA) with EIB. The area under the ROC curve demonstrated that the discriminative power of the GINA questionnaire for the detection of EIB is inadequate (p = 0.41), with sensitivity of 42.1% and specificity of 57.1%. Conclusions: The physical activity related question of GINA has insufficient diagnostic power to detect EIB in children and adolescents with asthma.

Introduction: The aim of the study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the item concerning physical activity of the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) asthma control questionnaire for detection of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) in children and adolescents. Material and methods: We divided participants (aged 6–18 years) with a diagnosis of asthma into two groups according to the GINA severity classification: mild/moderate asthma (MMA) and severe therapy-resistant asthma (STRA). We collected anthropometric, clinical and functional data (spirometry) and performed an EIB test. We used item 4 of the GINA questionnaire regarding exercise-induced symptoms to assess the diagnostic power of this instrument. Results: We included 40 patients (17 with MMA and 23 with STRA) with a mean age of 11.3 years and a mean FEV1 z-score of –0.33, of who 13 (32.5%) were classified as having uncontrolled asthma. Of the patients with uncontrolled asthma, 7 (53.8%) exhibited a decrease in the FEV1 after the EIB test. We found a higher frequency of EIB in participants with FEV1 z-score values of less than –1.0 compared to those with a z-score of –1.0 or greater (P = .05). There were no significant differences in the frequency of EIB based on disease severity and control. We also found no association of item 4 (GINA) with EIB. The area under the ROC curve demonstrated that the discriminative power of the GINA questionnaire for the detection of EIB is inadequate (P = .41), with sensitivity of 42.1% and specificity of 57.1%. Conclusions: The item concerning physical activity in the GINA questionnaire has insufficient diagnostic power to detect EIB in children and adolescents with asthma. Resumen: Introducción: El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar el rendimiento diagnóstico de la pregunta relacionada con la actividad física del cuestionario de control del asma de la Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) para la detección de la broncoconstricción inducida por el ejercicio (BIE) en niños y adolescentes. Materiales y métodos: Se dividió a pacientes (de 6 a 18 años de edad) con diagnóstico de asma en dos grupos de acuerdo a la clasificación de gravedad según el cuestionario GINA: asma leve/moderado (ALM) y asma grave refractaria (AGR). Se recogieron datos antropométricos, clínicos y funcionales (espirometría) y se realizó prueba de broncoprovocación con esfuerzo. Se utilizó la cuarta pregunta del cuestionario GINA, concerniente a los síntomas asociados al esfuerzo físico, para evaluar el rendimiento diagnóstico de este instrumento. Resultados: Se incluyó a 40 pacientes (17 con ALM y 23 con AGR) con una edad media de 11,3 años y un z-score medio de FEV1 de –0,33, de los que 13 (32,5%) se clasificaron como casos de asma no controlada. De los pacientes con enfermedad no controlada, 7 (53,8%) mostraron caídas en el FEV1 tras la prueba de esfuerzo. Se observó una mayor frecuencia de BIE en sujetos con z-score de FEV1 < –1,0 en comparación con aquellos con un z-score ≥ –1,0 (p = 0,05). No hubo diferencias significativas en la frecuencia de BIE en base a la gravedad o el control de la enfermedad. Tampoco se observó asociación entre la pregunta 4 (GINA) y la BIE. El área bajo la curva ROC evidenció que el poder discriminatorio del cuestionario GINA resulta insuficiente para detectar la BIE (p = 0,41), con una sensibilidad del 42,1% y una especificidad del 57,1%. Conclusiones: La pregunta concerniente al ejercicio físico en el cuestionario GINA carece del poder diagnóstico necesario para detectar la BIE en niños y adolescentes asmáticos.

El asma es una enfermedad respiratoria obstructiva crónica con alta prevalencia en niños. Varios factores pueden desencadenar síntomas de asma, incluido el ejercicio, que puede conducir a la broncoconstricción inducida por el ejercicio (BIE). Aunque el ejercicio físico puede representar un factor de riesgo para desencadenar la obstrucción bronquial en los asmáticos, estudios también han indicado varios efectos positivos. Este artículo tiene como objetivo resumir la evidencia actual sobre los efectos del entrenamiento físico en niños con asma. Hay evidencia sustancial disponible sobre el tema. La mayoría de los hallazgos muestran que el ejercicio induce efectos positivos, incluido el aumento de la aptitud aeróbica, la disminución de los niveles de la BEI, así como un aumento tanto en el control de la enfermedad como en los niveles de calidad de vida en niños asmáticos. Se destaca la importancia de una prescripción de la intensidad del ejercicio adecuada y personalizada, cerca del umbral anaeróbico, para obtener los efectos positivos inducidos por el ejercicio. Por lo tanto, considerando la evidencia que muestra efectos beneficiosos y el hecho de que la práctica del ejercicio físico consiste en una terapia no farmacológica, segura y de bajo costo, el entrenamiento físico supervisado, personalizado e individualizado por parte de profesionales de la salud es recomendado para niños asmáticos.

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the association of sleep disorders with the findings of heart rate variability (HRV) in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis (CF). Methods: Cross-sectional study including children and adolescents aged six to 18 years with a clinical diagnosis of CF. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected. Sleep disorders were evaluated using baseline nocturnal polysomnography. The autonomic nervous system (ANS) was evaluated through resting HRV. Results: A total of 30 individuals (11.2 years) with a mean forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) of 62.7% were included. The respiratory disturbance index presented a median of 2.6 and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) was identified in 30%. In the HRV analysis, a mean standard deviation of all inter-beat (RR) intervals (SDNN) of 60.8±45.9ms was found. There was a significant correlation between the HRV low-frequency/high-frequency (LF/HF) global modulation index and the minimum SpO2 during sleep in patients with FEV1

New Findings What is the central question of this study? Early‐life adversity is associated with increased risk for obesity and metabolic dysfunction. However, it is unclear whether obesity and metabolic dysfunction result from coping strategies to deal with adversity‐related emotional dysregulation, a direct programming of systems regulating metabolic function, or a combination of both. What is the main finding and its importance? Early‐life adversity increases vulnerability to later‐life obesity and metabolic dysfunction, indicating that genetics and adult lifestyle are not the only determinants of obesity and related metabolic dysfunction. Moreover, consumption of cafeteria diet exacerbated metabolic dysfunction associated with early‐life adversity, suggesting that poor dietary choices might have a bigger impact in the context of early‐life adversity. Abstract Early‐life adversity has become recognized as an important factor contributing to adult obesity and associated metabolic dysfunction. However, it is unclear whether obesity and metabolic dysfunction associated with early‐life adversity result from coping strategies to deal with adversity‐related emotional dysregulation, a direct programming of systems regulating metabolic function, or a combination. Interestingly, both early‐life adversity and later‐life dietary choices affect immune function, favouring pro‐inflammatory mechanisms that are associated with obesity‐related metabolic dysfunction. To investigate the unique and/or interactive effects of early‐life adversity and later‐life dietary choices for increased vulnerability to obesity and metabolic dysfunction, and specifically the role of the immune system in this vulnerability, we combined a naturalistic rat model of early‐life scarcity–adversity with a rat model of obesity, the cafeteria diet. Our results indicate that early‐life adversity alone induces insulin resistance, reduces pancreatic insulin secretion, plasma concentrations of triglycerides and cholesterol, and increases fasting glucose and tumour necrosis factor‐α plasma concentrations. Importantly, animals exposed to adverse rearing were more vulnerable to metabolic dysregulation associated with the cafeteria diet, given that they consumed more energy, showed more severe hepatic steatosis and increased concentrations of the pro‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐1β than normally reared animals fed the cafeteria diet. Together, our results suggest that early‐life adversity negatively programmes physiological systems that regulate metabolic function and increases vulnerability to obesity and metabolic dysfunction in adulthood. These results highlight the intrinsic relationship between the quality of the early postnatal environment and later‐life dietary choices on adult health outcomes.

Background: Cystic fibrosis (CF) affects the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and exercise in healthy children modulates the interaction between sympathetic and parasympathetic activity. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a short-term resistance exercise program on heart rate variability (HRV) in children and adolescents with CF.Methods: A randomized controlled trial was carried out in children diagnosed with CF aged 6–18 years. Individuals were divided into two groups: control (CON) and resistance-training (EX). Individuals in the EX group completed an individualized guided resistance program (5-RM—60–80%) for 8 weeks (3 sessions of 60 min/week). Upper and lower limbs exercises (seated bench press, seated lateral row, and leg press) were used. HRV was measured using a Suunto watch with subjects in lying position.Results: Nineteen subjects (13 boys) were included (CON = 11; and EX = 8). Mean age was 12.2 ± 3.3, FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in the first second) z-score was 1.72 ± 1.54 and peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) 42.7 ± 7.4 mL.Kg–1.min–1. Exercise induced significant changes in the frequency-domain variables, including a decrease in LF power (p = 0.001, d = 0.98) and LF/HF ratio (p = 0.020, d = 0.92), and an increase in HF power (p = 0.001, d = −0.97), compared to the CON group. No significant changes were found for time-domain variables, although increases with a moderate effect size were seen for SDNN (p = 0.152, d = −0.41) and RMSSD (p = 0.059, d = −0.49) compared to the CON group.Conclusion: A short-term resistance exercise-training program was able to modulate HRV in children and adolescents with CF presenting mild to moderate lung function impairment and good physical condition.Clinical Trial Registration:www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT04293926.

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate factors associated with the performance of children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis (CF) in the Modified Shuttle Test (MST) and compare it with healthy children and adolescents. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study, with children and adolescents divided into two groups: cystic fibrosis (CFG) and control (CG). Variables evaluated in the MST: walking distance, test level, heart rate variation (∆Hr), post-test mean arterial pressure (MAP Pt) and peripheral oxygen saturation variation (∆SPO2). Statistical analysis included Mann Whitney and Spearman coefficient tests, being significant p

ABSTRACT Objective: To validate the upper limb assessments tool, Shriners Hospital Upper Extremity Evaluation (SHUEE), for individuals with hemiplegic cerebral palsy in the Brazilian population. Methods: Validation study to translate and culturally adapt the Manual and the instrument. The psychometric properties evaluated were reliability and convergent validity. Reliability was determined by internal consistency (Cronbach’s α coefficient), ceiling and floor effect, sensitivity to changes, and intra- and interobserver agreement. Convergent validity was performed using the Pediatric Motor Activity Log, the self-care scale of the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory, and the Manual Ability Classification System. Results: We evaluated 21 individuals with hemiplegic cerebral palsy, with a mean age of 8.7±4.0 years. After the instrument was translated, there was no need for cultural adaptation. The total Cronbach’s α coefficient was 0.887 (95% confidence interval [95%CI] 0.745-0.970). We calculated sensitivity to changes in five subjects who underwent treatment with Botulinum Toxin Type A and physical therapy, with a significant difference between pre- and post-treatment evaluations in the Spontaneous Functional Analysis and Dynamic Positional Analysis. Convergent validity showed a significant correlation of the Spontaneous Functional Analysis and Dynamic Positional Analysis with the scales evaluated. All items of SHUEE presented high intra- and interobserver agreement. Conclusions: The results revealed that the Brazilian version of the SHUEE demonstrated good reliability and convergent validity, suggesting that it is an adequate and reliable tool for individuals with hemiplegic cerebral palsy in the Brazilian population.

Modelo do estudo: Revisão sistemática. Objetivo: Avaliar se os recursos de fisioterapia respiratória modificam a impedância pulmonar avaliada pelas técnicas de oscilações forçadas (TOF’s) em adultos com distúrbios ventilatórios obstrutivos. Método: Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática conduzida nas bases de dados PubMed, Scielo, Lilacs e PEDro, utilizando-se a seguinte estratégia de busca: Obstructive pulmonary disease OR chronic obstructive pulmonary disease OR COPD OR Bronchiectasis OR Bronchial diseases OR Cystic fibrosis OR mucoviscidosis AND impulse oscillometry OR forced oscillation techniques AND physical therapy OR physiotherapy AND Airway Resistance. Resultados: De um total de 216 artigos, apenas 3 foram incluídos. As amostras totalizaram 64 participantes, incluindo adultos com fibrose cística (FC), doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC) e bronquiectasias. Dois estudos utilizaram o flutter® e um realizou drenagem autógena. A impedância pulmonar foi avaliada em duas pesquisas pelo sistema de oscilometria de impulso (IOS) e em um pela TOF modificada (TOF-m). Houve redução da resistência em várias frequências, sendo que as mais frequentes foram a resistência total (3/3), a resistência central (2/3) e a periférica (2/3). Além disso, a reatância pulmonar apresentou resultados conflitantes. Conclusão: Evidenciou-se que os recursos fisioterapêuticos utilizados para remoção de secreções das vias aéreas modificam a impedância pulmonar avaliada pelas TOF’s em adultos com DVO, sendo a resistência total das vias aéreas o parâmetro com maior ganho terapêutico.

IntroductionSeveral tests may be used to assess exercise intolerance in severe therapy-resistant asthma (STRA), including the gold standard cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) and the modified shuttle test (MST).ObjectiveTo correlate the distance achieved in the MST with peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) and to compare the maximal heart rate (HRmax) obtained in both tests in children and adolescents with STRA.MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study, with 19 children and adolescents with STRA. Demographic, anthropometric, clinical data, and spirometric values were collected. CPET and the MST were performed in two consecutive visits. HRmax, pulse oxygen saturation, and dyspnea were compared between tests. The distance achieved in the MST was correlated with VO2peak.ResultsNineteen patients with a mean age of 11.5 ± 2.5 years were included. The mean HRmax (bpm) achieved was 180.8 ± 12.10 for the MST and 187.6 ± 9.35 for CPET, whereas the mean HRmax as a percentage of predicted (HRmax%) was 90.7 ± 6.5 for the MST and 93.8 ± 4.5 for CPET. A difference of only 6 bpm was found for HRmax (p = 0.10) and of 3% for HRmax% (p = 0.06) between tests. A strong correlation was found between the MST (r = 0.79; p = 0.001) and VO2peak measured through CPET. However, there were no correlations between the MST and both body mass index (r = −0.14; p = 0.564) and forced expiratory volume in the first second – FEV1 (r = −0.02; p = 0.917).ConclusionThe results demonstrate that the MST distance strongly correlates with VO2peak, measured through CPET, and the main physiological variable responses were similar between both tests. Our results provide additional data for the use of the MST to assess exercise capacity in children and adolescents with STRA.

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is the result of chronic injury where fibroblasts become activated and secrete large amounts of extracellular matrix (ECM), leading to impaired fibroblasts degradation followed by stiffness and loss of lung function. Fructose-1,6-bisphosphate (FBP), an intermediate of glycolytic pathway, decreases PF development, but the underlying mechanism is unknown. To address this issue, PF was induced in vivo using a mouse model, and pulmonary fibroblasts were isolated from healthy and fibrotic animals. In PF model mice, lung function was improved by FBP as revealed by reduced collagen deposition and downregulation of ECM gene expression such as collagens and fibronectin. Fibrotic lung fibroblasts (FLF) treated with FBP for 3 days in vitro showed decreased proliferation, contraction, and migration, which are characteristic of myofibroblast to fibroblast phenotype reversal. ECM-related genes and proteins such as collagens, fibronectin and α-smooth muscle actin, were also downregulated in FBP-treated FLF. Moreover, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 1, responsible for ECM degradation, was produced only in fibroblasts obtained from healthy lungs (HLF) and FBP did not alter its expression. On the other hand, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1, a MMP1 inhibitor, and MMP2, related to fibroblast tissue-invasion, were predominantly produced by FLF and FBP was able to downregulate its expression. These results demonstrate that FBP may prevent bleomycin-induced PF development through reduced expression of collagen and other ECM components mediated by a reduced TIMP-1 and MMP2 expression.

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: To determine whether the variation in lung function over one year is associated with worse clinical outcomes, as well as with a decline in lung function in the following years, in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). METHODS: This was a retrospective study involving CF patients (4-19 years of age), evaluated over a three-year period. We evaluated demographic characteristics, chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection, antibiotic use, hospitalization, six-minute walk distance (6MWD), and lung function. The inclusion criterion was having undergone pulmonary function testing at least three times in the first year and at least once in each of the next two years. RESULTS: We evaluated 35 CF patients. The variation in FEV1 in the first year (FEV1) was greater among those who, in the third year, showed reduced FEV1, had a below-average 6MWD, or were hospitalized than among those with normal FEV1, normal 6MWD, or no hospital admissions, in that same year (p < 0.05), although no such difference was found for antibiotic use in the third year. Subjects showing a FEV1 ≥ 10% also showed a greater decline in FEV1 over the two subsequent years (p = 0.04). The FEV1 also showed an inverse correlation with absolute FEV1 in the third year (r = −0.340, p = 0.04) and with the rate of FEV1 decline (r = −0.52, p = 0.001). Linear regression identified FEV1 as a predictor of FEV1 decline (coefficient of determination, 0.27). CONCLUSIONS: Significant variation in lung function over one year seems to be associated with a higher subsequent rate of FEV1 decline and worse clinical outcomes in CF patients. Short-term FEV1 might prove useful as a predictor of CF progression in clinical practice.

ResumoObjetivo:Determinar a taxa de sucesso do teste de manovacuometria em crianças de quatro a 12 anos.Métodos:Estudo transversal que incluiu crianças e adolescentes de quatro a 12 anos, matriculadas em três escolas da rede básica de ensino. Todos os participantes fizeram a mensuração das medidas antropométricas, seguidas do teste de manovacuometria (pressão inspiratória máxima e pressão expiratória máxima). Escolares cujos responsáveis não autorizaram a participação e aqueles que não quiseram fazer o teste foram excluídos. O teste foi considerado como sucesso quando o sujeito avaliado atingia os critérios de aceitabilidade (ausência de escape aéreo) e reprodutibilidade (variação

To generate reference values for two inspiratory muscle endurance (IME) protocols in healthy children and adolescents.This is an observational, cross-sectional study, in healthy children and adolescents from 4 to 18 years of age. Weight, height, maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) and IME were measured using two protocols. A fixed load of 30% of MIP with a 10% increment every 2 minutes was used in the incremental threshold loading protocol. As for the maximal loading protocol, a fixed load of 70% of MIP was used and the time limit (Tlim) achieved until fatigue was measured.A total of 462 participants were included, 281 corresponding to the incremental loading protocol and 181 to maximal loading. There were moderate and positive correlations between IME and age, MIP, weight and height in the incremental threshold loading. However, the regression model demonstrated that MIP and age were the best variables to predict the IME. Otherwise, weak and positive correlations with age, weight and height were found in the maximal loading. Only age and height influenced endurance in the regression model. The predictive power (r2) of the incremental threshold loading protocol was 0.65, while the maximal loading was 0.15. The reproducibility measured by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was higher in the incremental loading (0.96) compared to the maximal loading test (0.69).IME in healthy children and adolescents can be explained by age, height and MIP. The incremental threshold loading protocol showed more reliable results and should be the model of choice to evaluate IME in the pediatric age group.

INTRODUCTION: Sepsis is a complex syndrome caused by an uncontrolled systemic inflammatory response. Inflammatory cytokines play a pivotal role in septic shock pathogenesis. Therapeutic strategies have been tested in order to modulate the excessive generation or function of sepsis mediators. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the present study was to investigate the therapeutic effect of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and its association with fructose-1,6-bisphosphate (FBP) on T-lymphocytes proliferation, interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) levels. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Peripheral blood mononuclear cell samples were isolated from healthy individuals. T-lymphocytes were stimulated with phytohemagglutinin for 96 hours and submitted to different concentrations of NAC or NAC associated with FBP. RESULTS: NAC (10 and 15 mM) and NAC (15 mM) associated with FBP reduced T-lymphocytes proliferation. IL-1β levels rose in the presence of both NAC (15 mM) and NAC with FBP (1.25 mM). MCP-1 levels were reduced only by NAC (15 mM) associated with FBP (1.25 mM). CONCLUSION: The results suggest that both NAC itself and NAC associated with FBP inhibit cellular proliferation, acting as potent immunomodulatory agents, which corroborates its use in the treatment of inflammatory diseases.INTRODUÇÃO: A sepse é uma síndrome complexa causada pela resposta inflamatória sistêmica descontrolada. As citocinas inflamatórias representam papel central na patogênese do choque séptico. Têm sido testadas estratégias terapêuticas a fim de modular a geração ou a função excessiva de mediadores na sepse. OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar o efeito terapêutico da N-acetilcisteína (NAC) e sua associação com a frutose-1,6-bisfosfato (FBP) sobre a proliferação de linfócitos T e a geração de interleucina-1β (IL-1β) e proteína quimiotática de monócitos 1 (MCP-1) em cultura celular. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Foram isoladas células mononucleares de sangue periférico de indivíduos saudáveis. Os linfócitos T foram estimulados por 96 horas com fitohemaglutinina e submetidos a diferentes concentrações de NAC ou NAC associada à FBP (1,25 mM). RESULTADOS: O tratamento com NAC (10 e 15 mM) ou NAC (15 mM) associado à FBP reduziu a proliferação celular. Os níveis de IL-1β aumentaram com a presença de NAC (15 mM) e NAC + FBP. A concentração de MCP-1 mostrou-se reduzida apenas no grupo tratado com NAC associada à FBP. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados sugerem que tanto a NAC quanto a NAC associada à FBP são capazes de inibir a proliferação celular, atuando como potentes agentes imunomoduladores, sugerindo seu uso em doenças inflamatórias.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: It has been suggested that type 2 diabetes is an inflammatory response manifestation. The main drugs used to treat type 2 diabetes are sulphonylureas and biguanides. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the modulatory effects of oral hypoglycemic drugs (chlorpropamide and metformin) on lymphocyte proliferation in vitro and ex vivo. METHODS: Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated from human blood by gradient centrifugation. T-lymphocytes were stimulated by phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and oral hypoglycemic drugs. RESULTS: In both in vitro and ex vivo experiments, there was a reduction in cell proliferation after treatment with oral hypoglycemic drugs. When both drugs were used in combination, a high level of cytotoxicity was observed, which made analysis of immunomodulatory effects unfeasible. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: We demonstrated that diabetes itself may reduce cell proliferation significantly when stimulated by PHA, which may indicate that diabetic patients have difficulties in promoting an efficient inflammatory response. Moreover, the use of oral hypoglycemic drugs may aggravate this situation.INTRODUÇÃO E OBJETIVOS: Tem sido sugerido que o diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM2) é uma manifestação da resposta inflamatória. As principais drogas utilizadas no tratamento do DM2 são as sulfonilureias e as biguanidas. O objetivo deste trabalho é demonstrar os efeitos moduladores na proliferação de linfócitos causada pelos hipoglicemiantes orais (clorpropamida e metformina), in vitro e ex vivo. MÉTODOS: Células mononucleares de sangue periférico foram isoladas de seres humanos por gradiente de centrifugação. Os linfócitos T foram estimulados com fito-hemaglutinina (PHA) e hipoglicemiantes. RESULTADOS: Nos experimentos in vitro e ex vivo, mostramos a redução da proliferação celular quando do tratamento com drogas hipoglicemiantes orais. Quando as drogas foram utilizadas em combinação, foi observado alto grau de citotoxicidade, tornando inviável a análise do efeito imunomodulador. DISCUSSÃO E CONCLUSÃO: Mostramos que o diabetes, por si, pode reduzir significativamente a proliferação celular quando estimulada por PHA, o que pode indicar que o paciente diabético tem dificuldade em promover a eficiente resposta inflamatória e que o uso de hipoglicemiantes pode piorar esta situação.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar os valores de frequência cardíaca máxima (FCmáx) medidos e estimados por diferentes equações durante o teste de exercício cardiopulmonar (TECP) em adolescentes obesos. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo transversal. Foram incluídos adolescentes, de idades entre 15 e 18 anos, com obesidade (escore-Z do índice de massa corpórea - IMC>2,0). Coletaram-se dados demográficos e antropométricos, seguidos da realização do TECP, pela qual foi registrada a FCmáx. O valor mais elevado de frequência cardíaca (FC) atingida no pico do exercício foi considerado como a FCmáx. A comparação entre os valores de FCmáx medidos e os estimados pelas equações foi realizada empregando-se quatro equações prévias. Utilizaram-se a estatística descritiva e o teste de ANOVA (pós-teste de Bonferroni). Resultados: Foram incluídos 59 adolescentes obesos, sendo 44% do sexo masculino. A média de idade foi de 16,8±1,2 anos e a do IMC (escore-Z), de 3,0±0,7. No pico do exercício, a média de FCmáx (batimentos por minuto - bpm) foi de 190,0±9,2, o coeficiente de troca respiratória de 1,2±0,1 e o consumo máximo de oxigênio - VO2máx (mL/kg/min) - de 26,9±4,5. Ao comparar-se os valores medidos de FCmáx com os estimados pelas diferentes fórmulas, demonstrou-se que as equações “220-idade”, “208-0,7 x idade” e a “207-0,7 x idade” superestimam (p

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar a espessura muscular e a gordura subcutânea entre pacientes com fibrose cística (FC) e controles saudáveis e correlacionar os achados ultrassonográficos com variáveis nutricionais, clínicas e de função pulmonar. Métodos: Foram incluídos sujeitos (6 a 18 anos) com o diagnóstico de FC e indivíduos saudáveis. Foram realizadas medidas antropométricas, avaliação ultrassonográfica da espessura muscular e da gordura subcutânea do tríceps, quadríceps e da região do gastrocnêmio, além da quantificação das pregas cutâneas. O percentual de gordura corporal foi estimado pelas pregas cutâneas. Osindivíduos com FC também tiveram a função pulmonar avaliada por espirometria. Resultados: Foram incluídos 39 pacientes com FC e 45 controles. Ossujeitos com FC apresentaram do índice de massa corporal menor (p=0,011). Acomposição corporal e a espessura muscular foram similares entre os grupos. Apenas a circunferência da panturrilha (p=0,023) e o diâmetro do fêmur (p

Abstract Introduction: Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) is a resource widely used in pediatrics. However, there is great variability in relation to the characteristics of the protocols used. Objective: To identify the main clinical conditions and IMT protocols used in the pediatric age group. Methods: Integrative review of the literature by searching on Pubmed, Scielo, PEDro and EMBASE databases using the following strategy: threshold OR inspiratory muscle training OR muscle endurance OR muscle resistance OR endurance training OR maximal inspiratory pressure AND respiratory muscle. We have selected clinical trials that performed IMT in children and adolescents (0 to 18 years old), with a clinical diagnosis, and published in English, Portuguese and Spanish. Results: 17 studies were included. From these, 11 underwent IMT in patients with some neuromuscular disorder, being Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy the most common. The selected articles included a total sample of 327 participants. As for the characteristics of the protocols, 7 performed strength training, 5 endurance and 5 strength and endurance. The training load ranged from 30 to 80% of maximal inspiratory pressure. Moreover, 8 studies performed IMT twice daily and the session duration and the training period varied between 10 and 30 minutes, and from 3 weeks to 24 months, respectively. Conclusion: The IMT was used more frequently in patients with some neuromuscular disorder. Although there is no consensus as to the characteristics of the protocols, the choice of the load should take into account the purpose of IMT and the disease severity.

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the effect of an interdisciplinary intervention with a motivational approach on exercise capacity and usual physical activity levels in overweight and obese adolescents. Methods This is a randomized, controlled clinical trial with single blinding of subjects. Adolescents aged 15 to 18 years with overweight and obesity (body mass index ≥ 85 percentile) were included. The adolescents were randomized into two groups: interdisciplinary intervention or control − traditional approach aiming at lifestyle modifications. The initial evaluations were carried out, including the cardiopulmonary exercise test and the physical activity level measurement by using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and a pedometer. The evaluations were performed in two moments: time zero (time of inclusion in the study) and after 3 months (end of intervention). There were 12 sessions with weekly meetings. Results A total of 37 participants were included, 19 in the Intervention Group. There were no significant differences in the baseline demographic, anthropometric and physical activity characteristics between groups, with mean age of 17.3±1.0 years in the Control Group, and 16.8±0.9 years in the Intervention Group (p=0.14). The motivational intervention did not cause significant differences (p>0.05) in the comparison of the variables of exercise capacity and usual physical activity (questionnaire and pedometer) between groups. Conclusion The intervention with a motivational approach did not alter exercise capacity and levels of usual physical activity in overweight and obese adolescents. Clinical Trial Registry: NCT02455973 and REBEC: RBR-234nb5.