ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Dynapenia is a risk factor of mortality. Therefore, the development of low-cost and easy-to-apply tools is essential to optimize the health surveillance actions of older people. OBJECTIVES: To compare the time spent on habitual physical activity (HPA) and sedentary behavior (SB) among dynapenic and non-dynapenic older adults and ascertain the predictive ability of these behaviors on outcome. DESIGN AND SETTING: A cross-sectional population epidemiological survey was conducted involving 208 older adults. METHODS: HPA and SB were quantified using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and dynapenia was identified by handgrip strength (women: 18.37 kgf; men: 26.75 kgf). RESULTS: The prevalence was 24.50%. In both sexes, dynapenic individuals reported a HPA median time of 70.00 minutes/week (min/wk), while non-dynapenic women and men reported HPA median times of 240.00 and 280.00 min/wk, respectively (P < 0.05). For SB among dynapenic individuals, a median of 388.75 min/day was observed in women and 428.57 min/d in men. In contrast, non-dynapenic women and men had 291.42 and 274.28 min/day in SB (P < 0.05), respectively. The best cutoff HPA to discriminate the outcome was 150.00 min/wk in women (sensitivity: 73.30%; specificity: 60.67%) and 140.00 min/wk in men (sensitivity, 71.43%; specificity, 61.54%). The best cutoff SB was 381.43 min/day in women (sensitivity, 53.30%; specificity, 84.80%) and 351.43 min/day in men (sensitivity, 71.43%; specificity, 73.85%). CONCLUSION: Older individuals with dynapenia spent less time on HPA and more time in SB. Furthermore, HPA was found to be a better discriminator of dynapenic individuals, and SB better discriminated non-dynapenic individuals.

ABSTRACT This research aimed to analyze the association of physical activity (PA) level combined with exposure to sedentary behavior (SB) with dynapenia in older people. Epidemiological, cross-sectional study, conducted with 208 older adults in Aiquara, Bahia, Brazil. Habitual PA and SB were quantified using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Based on this information, participants were divided into groups (G): G1) sufficiently active and low SB; G2) sufficiently active and high SB; G3) insufficiently active and low SB; and G4) insufficiently active and high SB. Assessment of dynapenia was performed based on the values of the handgrip strength measured in kilogram-force (kgf) (women: 18.37 kgf; men: 26.75 kgf). Descriptive analysis was conducted using absolute and relative frequencies, mean and standard deviation. For the inferential analysis, Poisson regression was used, with a robust estimator, calculation of Prevalence Ratios (PRs) and their relevant Confidence Intervals (CIs) of 95.0%. It was observed that the mean age of women and men were, respectively, 71.0 ± 6.7 and 72.3 ± 8.1 years and the prevalence of dynapenia observed was about 24.5%. Furthermore, it was found that the insufficiently active older adults with low SB (G3) (PR: 2.28; 95%CI: 1.09-4.76), and those insufficiently active with high SB (G4) (PR: 4, 14; 95%CI: 1.95-8.70), were more likely to experience the assessed outcome. Evidence showed that, among the older adults in Aiquara the prevalence of dynapenia was high in the presence of an insufficient level of PA, especially when combined with greater exposure to SB

RESUMO Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo analisar a associação do nível de atividade física (AF) combinado à exposição ao comportamento sedentário (CS) com a dinapenia em idosos. Estudo epidemiológico, transversal, conduzido com 208 idosos de Aiquara, Bahia, Brasil. A AF habitual e o CS foram quantificados pelo International Physical Activity Questionnaire. A partir destas informações, dividiu-se os participantes em grupos (G): G1) suficientemente ativos e baixo CS; G2) suficientemente ativos e elevado CS; G3) insuficientemente ativos e baixo CS; e G4) insuficientemente ativos e elevado CS. A avaliação da dinapenia foi realizada a partir dos valores, em quilograma-força (kgf), da força de preensão manual (mulheres: 18,37 kgf; homens: 26,75 kgf). A análise descritiva foi conduzida por meio de frequências absolutas e relativas, média e desvio padrão. Para a análise inferencial utilizou-se a regressão de Poisson, com estimador robusto, cálculo das Razões de Prevalência (RP) e de seus respectivos Intervalos de Confiança (IC) de 95,0%. Observou-se que as médias de idade das mulheres e dos homens, foram, respectivamente, 71,0 ± 6,7 e 72,3 ± 8,1 anos e a prevalência de dinapenia observada foi na ordem de 24,5%. Ademais, averiguou-se que os idosos insuficientemente ativos com baixo CS (G3) (RP: 2,28; IC95%: 1,09-4,76), e os insuficientemente ativos com elevado CS (G4) (RP: 4,14; IC95%: 1,95-8,70), apresentaram maior probabilidade ao desfecho analisado. As evidências verificadas mostraram que, entre os idosos de Aiquara, a prevalência de dinapenia foi elevada na presença do nível de AF insuficiente, especialmente quando combinado a uma maior exposição ao CS.

Abstract Background Early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) offers an opportunity for better treatment outcomes. In real-life settings, grasping this opportunity might depend on access to specialized care. We evaluated the effects of early versus late assessment by the rheumatologist on the diagnosis, treatment initiation and long-term outcomes of RA under real-life conditions. Methods Adults meeting the ACR/EULAR (2010) or ARA (1987) criteria for RA were included. Structured interviews were conducted. The specialized assessment was deemed “early” when the rheumatologist was the first or second physician consulted after symptoms onset, and “late” when performed afterwards. Delays in RA diagnosis and treatment were inquired. Disease activity (DAS28-CRP) and physical function (HAQ-DI) were evaluated. Student's t, Mann-Whitney U, chi-squared and correlation tests, and multiple linear regression were performed. For sensitivity analysis, a propensity score-matched subsample of early- vs. late-assessed participants was derived based on logistic regression. The study received ethical approval; all participants signed informed consent. Results We included 1057 participants (89.4% female, 56.5% white); mean (SD) age: 56.9 (11.5) years; disease duration: 173.1 (114.5) months. Median (IQR) delays from symptoms onset to both RA diagnosis and initial treatment coincided: 12 (6–36) months, with no significant delay between diagnosis and treatment. Most participants (64.6%) first sought a general practitioner. Notwithstanding, 80.7% had the diagnosis established only by the rheumatologist. Only a minority (28.7%) attained early RA treatment (≤ 6 months of symptoms). Diagnostic and treatment delays were strongly correlated (rho 0.816; p < 0.001). The chances of missing early treatment more than doubled when the assessment by the rheumatologist was belated (OR 2.77; 95% CI: 1.93, 3.97). After long disease duration, late-assessed participants still presented lower chances of remission/low disease activity (OR 0.74; 95% CI: 0.55, 0.99), while the early-assessed ones showed better DAS28-CRP and HAQ-DI scores (difference in means [95% CI]: −0.25 [−0.46, −0.04] and − 0.196 [−0.306, −0.087] respectively). The results in the propensity-score matched subsample confirmed those observed in the original (whole) sample. Conclusions Early diagnosis and treatment initiation in patients with RA was critically dependent on early access to the rheumatologist; late specialized assessment was associated with worse long-term clinical outcomes.

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the association of anthropometric indicators of adiposity in older people, according to sex, with hypertension; to compare the scores of these variables between participants with and without hypertension; and to identify among them those with better predictive ability for screening the outcome. Methods: Epidemiological, population-based, cross-sectional study conducted with 210 older people. The anthropometric indicators analyzed were: body mass index, waist circumference, abdominal circumference, body adiposity index, triceps skinfold, waist-to-hip ratio, waist-to-height ratio, and conicity index. Hypertension diagnosis was self-reported. Results: The indicators of adiposity increased the probability of hypertension. Additionally, hypertensive older people of both sexes showed higher scores on adiposity indicators than non-hypertensive subjects (p < 0.05). For men, the most sensitive indicator for the outcome was conicity index (81.82%; cut-off point: 1.30) and the most specific was body mass index (69.77%; cut-off point: 25.05 kg/m2). For women, the most sensitive indicator for the outcome was the body adiposity index (86.08%; cut-off point: 31.03%), and the most specific was the abdominal circumference (82.82%; cut-off point: 98.70 cm). Conclusion: In both sexes, the indicators of adiposity were positively associated with hypertension; hypertensive participants showed higher values in the scores of the indicators. Additionally, the body adiposity index (women) and conicity index (men) demonstrated greater ability to screen for hypertension, while the abdominal circumference and body mass index demonstrated greater ability to screen for non-hypertensive women and men, respectively.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a associação de indicadores antropométricos de adiposidade com a hipertensão, em pessoas idosas, de acordo com o sexo; comparar os escores dessas variáveis entre os participantes com e sem hipertensão; e identificar os indicadores com melhor capacidade preditiva à triagem do desfecho. Métodos: Estudo epidemiológico, populacional, transversal, realizado com 210 pessoas idosas. Os indicadores antropométricos analisados foram: índice de massa corporal, circunferência da cintura, circunferência abdominal, índice de adiposidade corporal, dobra cutânea tricipital, relação cintura/quadril, relação cintura/altura e índice de conicidade. O diagnóstico de hipertensão arterial foi autorreferido. Resultados: Observou-se que os indicadores de adiposidade aumentaram a probabilidade à hipertensão. Além disso, as pessoas idosas hipertensas, de ambos os sexos, apresentaram maiores escores nos indicadores de adiposidade quando comparadas às não hipertensas (p < 0,05). Para os homens, o indicador mais sensível ao desfecho foi o índice de conicidade (81,82%; ponto de corte: 1,30) e o mais específico foi o índice de massa corporal (69,77%; ponto de corte: 25,05 kg/m2). Nas mulheres, o indicador mais sensível ao desfecho foi o índice de adiposidade corporal (86,08%; ponto de corte: 31,03%) e o mais específico foi a circunferência abdominal (82,82%; ponto de corte: 98,70 cm). Conclusão: Em ambos os sexos, os indicadores de adiposidade mostraram-se positivamente associados à hipertensão; os participantes hipertensos apresentaram valores mais elevados nos escores dos indicadores. Ademais, identificou-se para os sexos, feminino e masculino, que os indicadores com melhor capacidade de rastrear a hipertensão, foram, respectivamente, o índice de adiposidade corporal e índice de conicidade. Enquanto a circunferência abdominal e o índice de massa corporal mostraram maior capacidade de rastrear, respectivamente, as mulheres e os homens não hipertensos.

RESUMO Este estudo identificou os fatores associados à dinapenia em idosos residentes em um município de pequeno porte do Nordeste brasileiro. Trata-se de um estudo populacional, conduzido com 208 idosos (58,7% mulheres) de Aiquara-BA. As informações sociodemográficas, comportamentais e de condições de saúde foram obtidas em entrevistas face a face, e o estado nutricional foi avaliado pelo índice de massa corporal. Para mensuração do nível de atividade física e do comportamento sedentário, utilizou-se o International Physical Activity Questionnaire. O diagnóstico da dinapenia foi realizado por sexo, a partir do percentil 25 da força de preensão manual, averiguada com um dinamômetro hidráulico. Para análises inferenciais foi utilizada a regressão de Poisson, com estimador robusto, cálculo das Razões de Prevalência (RP) e de seus respectivos intervalos de confiança de 95% (IC). A prevalência de dinapenia foi maior nos idosos com idade entre 70-79 (RP: 3,21; IC95%: 1,55-6,64) e ≥80 anos (RP: 4,91; IC95%: 2,32-10,39), nos com baixo peso (RP: 2,20; IC95%: 1,26-3,82), nos insuficientemente ativos (RP: 1,99; IC95%: 1,12-3,54) e entre os com elevado comportamento sedentário (RP: 1,88; IC95%: 1,19-2,98). Identificou-se que os fatores associados à dinapenia foram: idade entre 70-79 e ≥80 anos, nível de atividade física insuficiente; elevado comportamento sedentário e baixo peso.

ABSTRACT This study identified factors associated with dynapenia in older adults residing in a small town in northeastern Brazil. It is a population-based study conducted with 208 senior citizens (58.7% women) from Aiquara, BA. Sociodemographic, behavioral and health information were obtained from face-to-face interviews, and nutritional status was assessed by body mass index. To measure their level of physical activity and sedentary behavior, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire was used. Dynapenia was diagnosed by sex, from the 25th percentile of handgrip strength, by means of a hydraulic dynamometer. For inferential analyses, Poisson regression was used, with a robust estimator, calculation of Prevalence Ratios (PRs) and their respective 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs). The prevalence of dynapenia was higher in older adults aged 70-79 (PR: 3.21; 95%CI: 1.55-6.64) and ≥80 years (PR: 4.91; 95%CI: 2.32-10.39), in those with low weight (PR: 2.20; 95%CI: 1.26-3.82), in those who are insufficiently active (PR: 1.99; 95%CI: 1.12-3.54), and among those with high level of sedentary behavior (PR: 1.88; 95%CI: 1.19-2.98). The factors identified as being associated with dynapenia were: age between 70 and 79 and ≥80 years, insufficient level of physical activity; high level of sedentary behavior, and low weight.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a soroprevalência e os fatores de risco associados à presença de anticorpos contra Toxoplasma gondii e Neospora caninum em ovinos do Paraná. A detecção dos anticorpos para T. gondii e N. caninum foi realizada, usando-se testes de ELISA indireto caseiro e comercial, respectivamente. A análise de regressão logística múltipla foi usada para verificar os fatores de risco associados à soroprevalência. Anticorpos anti-T. gondii e anti-N. caninum foram observados em 42,7% e em 17,6% dos animais, respectivamente. Os fatores de proteção associados à soropositividade foram “algum nível de confinamento (confinamento ou semiextensivo)” (OR=0,53) para T. gondii e “presença de mão de obra especializada” para N. caminum (OR=0,64). Os fatores de risco foram “presença de gatos” para T. gondii (OR=1,75) e “alimentação de cães com resíduos placentários” (OR=1,79) para N. caninum. Além de apresentar uma significante e simultânea soroprevalência para ambos os agentes (9,9% dos animais), os resultados também indicam que as deficiências em gestão e saneamento ambiental, a presença de reservatórios e os tipos de exploração favorecem a soropositividade. Dessa forma, estudos como estes podem auxiliar em programas sanitários e políticas públicas para a prevenção de T. gondii e N. caninum nos rebanhos ovinos do Paraná.

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the seroprevalence and factors associated with the presence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii and anti-Neospora caninum antibodies in sheep from Paraná state. The detection of antibodies for T. gondii and N. caninum was performed by homemade and commercial indirect ELISA, respectively. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to verify the factors associated with the seroprevalence. Antibodies anti-T. gondii and anti-N. caninum were observed in 42.7% and in 17.6% of the animals, respectively. The protective factors associated to seropositive were “some level of confinement” (full or semi-extensive confinement) (OR=0.53) for T. gondii and “use of skilled labor” (OR=0.64) for N. caninum. The risk factors were “presence of cats” (OR=1.75) for T. gondii and “feeding of dogs with sheep placental remains” (OR=1.79) for N. caninum. In addition, to presenting a significant and simultaneous seroprevalence for both agents (9.9% of the animals), the results also indicate that deficiencies in management and environmental sanitation, the presence of reservoirs, and types of exploitation enhance the seropositivity. Thus, studies like this might support sanitary programs and public policies for the prevention of T. gondii and N. caninum in the sheep herds of Paraná state.

Abstract Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common autoimmune systemic inflammatory disease. In addition to joint involvement, RA patients frequently have other comorbidities, such as cardiovascular diseases. Drugs used for RA treatment may increase or decrease the risk of a cardiovascular event. This study aims to analyze cardiovascular risk comorbidities in patients with RA and the correlation with the use of anti-rheumatic drugs. Methods: Cross-sectional study conducted based on the real-life rheumatoid arthritis study database - REAL, a prospective observational cohort study. Associations between the use of anti-rheumatic drugs and the presence of comorbidities were represented by their prevalence ratio and evaluated using the Chi-square or Fisher’s Exact tests. Results: We assessed 1116 patients, 89.4% women, mean age of 55.15 years and predominance of seropositive disease. 63.3% had some cardiovascular comorbidity, predominantly hypertension (49.9%). The use of glucocorticoids was observed in 47.4% of patients and there was a significant tendency of lower use of these drugs in the presence of dyslipidemia (PR: 0.790; p = 0.007). We observed that the presence of cardiovascular comorbidities was associated with higher use of bDMARDs (PR:1.147; p = 0.003). Conclusions: The presence of cardiovascular risk comorbidities was confirmed to be higher in RA patients. Different treatment strategies using less glucocorticoids in the presence of dyslipidemia and more common use of bDMARDs in patients with cardiovascular comorbidities suggest that rheumatologists are aware of the potential influence of the DMARDs in the risk of cardiovascular event. Reinforcing these results, we highlight the need for a better baseline assessment to guide the choice of anti-rheumatic drugs in RA patients who have comorbidities.

Abstract Background: In Brazil, socioeconomic differences in the incidence of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have been demonstrated, which are important in the formulation of hypotheses regarding the association between environmental factors, lifestyle and the risk of disease development. This study examines how the socioeconomic condition of the patient with RA in Brazil, assessed according to social class, educational level, employment situation and use of caregivers, affects the times between the beginning of symptoms and diagnosis and the beginning of the use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, as well as the presence of erosive disease and functional status. Methods: This work is part of a multicentric study called REAL - Rheumatoid Arthritis in Real Life in Brazil, which is a prospective observational cohort study. Results: As described in the REAL study, we included a total of 1115 patients. It was noted that patients with an educational classification of up to second grade incomplete presented with erosion percentages above those with a higher grade complete. Patients with caregivers presented a higher percentage of erosion than patients without caregivers. We verified that patients from economic classes above B2 presented fewer occurrences of erosion than those from classes C2, D-E. We also analyzed the average time differences from the beginning of symptoms and diagnosis and the beginning of treatment, according to academic level, erosion and economic classification. Patients with first grade complete showed an HAQ-DI averages higher than those with second grade complete. The patients who had employment showed lower HAQ-DI averages than patients who were not employed. The patients with erosion showed an HAQ-DI value higher than those without erosion. Patients with caregivers showed an HAQ-DI average higher than that of without caregivers. Conclusion: This study showed that the therapeutic window of RA is not being reached, and therefore we should have a policy to expand and ensure access to public health for all patients, especially those with lower levels of education and income. Trial registration: This study was approved by the National Commission of Ethics in Research.

Resumo O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar a ocorrência de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii e anti-Neospora caninum e seus fatores associados em caprinos de propriedades do Estado do Paraná, Sul do Brasil. A análise sorológica foi realizada, utilizando-se ELISA indireto em 629 amostras de soro caprino, coletadas em 32 propriedades distribuídas em cinco mesorregiões do Estado. A soropositividade foi observada em 30,7% dos animais para T. gondii, 6,3% para N. caninum e 3,0% para ambos. Os modelos finais de regressão múltipla mostraram que o uso de reprodução assistida reduziu a chance de soropositividade para T. gondii (PR=0,70), enquanto a presença no local de abate na fazenda (PR=2,03) aumentou. Para N. caninum, o fornecimento de ração concentrada (OR=4,80) e a morte dos animais no pré-desmame (OR=9,96) aumentaram a chance de soropositividade. O estudo das variáveis associadas às soropositividades sugere deficiências no saneamento e no manejo reprodutivo dos Animais. Além disso, reconhece pontos críticos para a infecção no manejo da produção animal.

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii and anti-Neospora caninum antibodies and their associated factors among goats in farms from the Paraná state, South Brazil. The serological analysis was performed by indirect ELISA on 629 goat serum samples collected from 32 farms distributed in five mesorregions from the state. Seropositivity was observed in 30.7% of the animals for T. gondii, 6.3% for N. caninum, and 3.0% for both agents. Final multiple regression models showed that the use of assisted reproduction decreased the chance of seropositivity for T. gondii (PR=0.70) and the slaughtering site on the farm (PR=2.03) increased it. To N. caninum, the supplying concentrated feed to animals (OR=4.80) and animal pre-weaning death (OR=9.96) increased the chance of seropositivity. The variables associated with these seropositivities suggest deficiencies in sanitation and reproductive management. In addition, it recognizes critical points of infection for animal production management.

RESUMO Introdução Componentes cognitivos são necessários para manter a postura nas perturbações externas. Porém, poucos estudos investigaram o controle postural quando perturbações externas são associadas à tarefa cognitiva concomitante (TD). Objetivo Analisar o comportamento dos ajustes reativos após perturbação com diferentes intensidades e deslocamentos em adultos jovens ativos; e analisar a influência da TD nos ajustes preditivos e reativos em diferentes condições de perturbação. Métodos Permaneceram em pé sobre um equipamento que provocou deslocamento da base de suporte 28 adultos jovens fisicamente ativos. Quatro condições experimentais foram realizadas em tarefa simples (TS) e TD (cognitiva-reportar quantas vezes um número preestabelecido apareceu no áudio): uma (5cm e 10cm/s); duas (5cm e 25cm/s); três (12cm e 10cm/s) e quatro (12cm e 25cm/s). Foram realizadas três tentativas para cada condição (total=24). Os parâmetros do centro de pressão (CoP) foram analisados em janelamentos: preditivo (-250 a +50ms), reativo 1 (+50 a +200ms) e reativo 2 (+200 a +700ms), em relação ao início da atividade do CoP. ANOVAs one-way foram realizadas para análise dos ajustes preditivos. Já para os ajustes reativos, foram realizadas ANOVAs two-way com fator para tarefa (TS×TD) e condição (1×2×3×4) com medidas repetidas. Resultados ANOVA one-way (preditivo) apontou que os indivíduos apresentaram maiores parâmetros do CoP na TS em relação à TD. Nos reativos 1 e 2, a ANOVA apontou maiores parâmetros do CoP na segunda e na quarta condição quando comparada à primeira e à terceira, e na TS em relação às TD. Apresentaram maior tempo para recuperar a posição estável na primeira e na terceira condição em comparação à segunda e à quarta. Conclusão A intensidade da perturbação influencia mais nos ajustes posturais para manutenção do equilíbrio do que a magnitude. Ainda, as tarefas cognitivas concomitantes à perturbação externa diminuem a oscilação do CoP. Com isso, recursos cognitivos possuem relevância no controle postural após perturbação. Nível de evidência III; Estudos de pacientes não consecutivos, sem padrão de referência “ouro” aplicado uniformemente.

ABSTRACT Introduction Cognitive components are necessary to maintain posture during external perturbations. However, few studies have investigated postural control when external perturbations are associated with a concomitant cognitive task (DT). Objectives To analyze the behavior of reactive adjustments after perturbation with different intensities and displacements in active young adults; and to analyze the influence of DT on predictive and reactive adjustments in different perturbation conditions. Methods Twenty-eight physically active young adults stood on an item of equipment that produced displacements of the base. Four experimental conditions were introduced in a single task (ST) and DT (cognitive-report how many times a pre-established number appeared in the audio): 1 (5 cm and 10 cm/s); 2 (5 cm and 25 cm/s); 3 (12 cm and 10 cm/s) and 4 (12 cm and 25 cm/s). Three attempts were carried out for each condition (total=24). Center of pressure (CoP) parameters were analyzed considering the following windows: predictive (-250 to +50 ms), reactive 1 (+50 to +200 ms) and reactive 2 (+200 to +700 ms), in comparison to the start of the CoP activity. One-way ANOVAs were performed to analyze predictive adjustments, while two-way ANOVAs with factor for task (STxDT) and condition (1x2x3x4), with repeated measurements, were performed for the reactive adjustments. Results One-way ANOVA (predictive) indicated that the subjects had higher CoP parameters in ST vs DT. In reactive adjustments 1 and 2, ANOVA indicated greater CoP parameters in condition 2 and 4 when compared to 1 and 3, and in the ST vs DT. The subjects took longer to recover stable position in conditions 1 and 3 than in conditions 2 and 4. Conclusion Perturbation intensity has a greater influence on postural adjustments to maintain balance than on magnitude. Moreover, the association of cognitive tasks with external perturbation decreases CoP oscillation. Therefore, cognitive resources play an important role in postural control after perturbation. Level of evidence III; Study of nonconsecutive patients, with no “gold” standard applied uniformly.

RESUMEN Introducción Los componentes cognitivos son necesarios para mantener la postura en perturbaciones externas. Sin embargo, pocos estudios investigaron el control postural cuando son asociadas perturbaciones a la tarea cognitiva concomitante (TD). Objetivo Analizar el comportamiento de los ajustes reactivos después de una perturbación con diferentes intensidades y desplazamientos en adultos jóvenes activos; y analizar la influencia de la TD en ajustes predictivos y reactivos en diferentes condiciones de perturbación. Métodos Veintiocho adultos jóvenes físicamente activos permanecieron en pie sobre un equipo que provocó desplazamiento de la base de soporte. Cuatro condiciones experimentales fueron realizadas en tareas simples (TS) y TD (cognitiva-reportar cuántas veces un número preestablecido apareció en el audio): una (5 cm y 10 cm/s); dos (5 cm y 25 cm/s); tres (12 cm y 10 cm/s) y cuatro (12 cm y 25 cm/s). Fueron realizadas tres tentativas para cada condición (total=24). Los parámetros del centro de presión (CoP) fueron analizados en ventanas: predictiva (-250 a +50 ms), reactiva 1 (+50 a +200 ms) y reactiva 2 (+200 a +700 ms) en relación al inicio de la actividad del CoP. Fueron realizadas ANOVAs one-way para análisis de los ajustes predictivos. Fueron realizadas ANOVAs two-way con factor para tarea (TSxTD) y condición (1x2x3x4) con medidas repetidas para análisis de los ajustes reactivos. Resultados ANOVA one-way (predictivo) mostró que los individuos presentaron parámetros mayores de CoP en TS con relación a TD. En los reactivos 1 y 2, ANOVA mostró parámetros del CoP en la segunda y cuarta condición cuando comparada a la primera y la tercera, y en la TS con relación a las TD. Presentaron tiempo mayor para recuperar la posición estable en la primera y tercera condición en comparación a la segunda y la cuarta. Conclusión La intensidad de perturbación influencia más en los ajustes posturales para mantenimiento del equilibrio que la magnitud. Además, las tareas cognitivas concomitantes a la perturbación externa disminuyen la oscilación del CoP. Con eso, los recursos cognitivos poseen relevancia en el control postural después de la perturbación. Nivel de evidencia III; Estudios de pacientes no consecutivos, sin estándar de referencia “oro” aplicado uniformemente.

Abstract AIM This study aimed to identify the effects of aging and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) on gait parameters after a four-month period and to investigate the effects of a four-month program of physical activity, with emphasis on the cognitive components of gait during single and dual task, in people with AD. METHODS Twenty-three people with AD, divided into the Training Group (TG; n=12; aged 79.17±7.62 years) and the Control Group (CG; n=11; aged 77.00±5.57 years), and eleven healthy older adults (Healthy Group - HG; aged 75.82±4.83 years) were included in this study. TG participated in a physical activity program for four months. The CG and HG were instructed not to participate in any kind of regular physical activity in this period. The physical activity program includes motor activities and cognitive tasks simultaneously. The participants attended a 1-h session three times a week. The kinematic parameters of gait were analyzed under two conditions, before and after a physical activity program: single and dual task. Deltas for all dependent variables between pre and post training were calculated. The deltas were compared using two-way ANOVAs with group (TG x CG and CG x HG) and task (single x dual task) as factors, with repeated measures for task. RESULTS After the training period, the TG improved stride length, duration, velocity and cadence compared to the CG. CONCLUSION Physical activity with emphasis on cognitive components promotes better reallocation of attention while walking in people with AD, improving attentional focus on the gait and thus resulting in a safer locomotive pattern.

Abstract Background: There are few data on the epidemiology, clinical manifestations and management of RA in Brazil, even with the recognition of the high direct, indirect and societal costs of this disease. Herein, we report the formation of the REAL - Rheumatoid Arthritis in Real Life, the first nationally representative multicenter prospective observational study in Brazil. Methods: The REAL study was designed to include a total of 1300 evaluable patients from 13 tertiary care public health centers specialized in RA management and representative of 5 regions of Brazil. Each center was expected to enroll ~ 100 consecutively seen patients and follow them prospectively in a systematic protocol-driven fashion with scheduled visits at baseline, 6 and 12 months. Core clinical, laboratory and patient-reported outcomes measures were required to be collected at each visit. Results: A total of 1115 patients (89.4% female, mean age of 56.7 years and median disease duration of 12.7 years) were enrolled from 11 participating centers. Almost 80% of patients were of middle-low or low socioeconomic classes. The median educational time was 8 years, with 3.23% being below literacy level. The interval between symptoms and diagnosis varied from 1 to 457 months (median 12 months). Almost half of the patients were on glucocorticoids, 96.5% on DMARDs, with 35.7% on biologics. Median HAQ-DI was 0.875, ranging from 0 to 3. Median DAS28-ESR was 3.5, with 58.7% of patients presenting moderate or high disease activity. Conclusions: The first large cohort of Brazilian patients with RA in a real-life setting shows several striking differences from previously published cohorts from other countries. The long delay for diagnosis and start of DMARDs may partly explain the high frequency of erosive disease. An elevated percentage of patients on moderate or high disease activity was seen, despite of the high frequency of corticosteroid and biologics utilization. Data from this cohort may enable public health managers of developing countries better allocate the limited resources available for the care of RA patients.

ResumoA estimulação cutânea plantar beneficia o andar de pacientes com doença de Parkinson (DP), mas os efeitos de diferentes tipos de palmilhas ainda não foram testados. Nós avaliamos o efeito imediato de diferentes tipos de palmilhas no andar de pacientes com DP e idosos saudáveis. Dezenove pacientes com DP e dezenove idosos sadios andaram em três condições: palmilha convencional, palmilha com borda na parte externa da superfície do pé e palmilha com semi-esferas. A sensibilidade plantar foi avaliada antes e após o protocolo do andar. Não foram encontradas diferenças entre os grupos para sensibilidade plantar antes e após a tarefa do andar. Os pacientes apresentaram reduzida velocidade e menor comprimento da passada. Não foram verificados benefícios imediatos das palmilhas no andar para os grupos. O aumento na estimulação cutânea plantar não promoveu benefícios imediatos no andar de pacientes com DP e controles.

AbstractPlantar cutaneous stimulation has been shown to improve gait in Parkinson's disease (PD), but the effects of different types of insoles have not been tested. We evaluated the immediate effect of different types of insoles on gait in PD patients and healthy older adults. Nineteen PD patients and nineteen healthy older adults performed and performed a walking task at their self-selected speed in three conditions: conventional insole, insole with a raised ridge around the foot perimeter, and insole with half-spheres. Plantar sensation was evaluated before and after the walking protocol. There were no differences between groups for plantar sensation before and after the walking task. PD patients demonstrated reduced stride length and stride velocity. There were no immediate benefits offered by the insoles on gait of either group. The increased plantar cutaneous stimulation does not promote immediate benefits on gait in PD patients and healthy older adults.

ResumenLa estimulación plantar beneficia el andar e de pacientes con enfermedad de Parkinson-(EP), pero los efectos de diferentes tipos de plantillas no fueron testados. Evaluamos el efecto inmediato de diferentes tipos de plantillas en el andar de pacientes con EP y en mayores saludables. Diecinueve pacientes con EP y diecinueve controles fueron evaluados en el andar en tres condiciones: plantilla convencional, plantilla con borde en la superficie exterior del pie e plantilla con semi-esferas. La sensibilidad plantar fue evaluada antes y después de lo andar. No hubo diferencias entre los grupos para la sensibilidad plantar antes y después de lo andar. Los pacientes mostraron velocidad reducida y menor longitud de la zancada. No hubo beneficios inmediatos de las plantillas en el andar para los grupos. El aumento en la estimulación plantar no promovió beneficios inmediatos en el andar para los grupos.

INTRODUÇÃO: As respostas ao exercício agudo dos biomarcadores, como a fosfatase alcalina (FA) e a creatina quinase (CK) séricas têm sido pouco investigadas em ratos diabéticos. OBJETIVOS: Verificar os efeitos do exercício físico aeróbio agudo sobre as concentrações de CK e FA, bem como, avaliar o estado hídrico em ratos diabéticos experimentais. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS Foram utilizados ratos Wistar machos, adultos jovens, distribuídos em dois grupos: diabéticos (DA) e controles (CA). O diabetes foi induzido por meio da administração de aloxana monoidratado Sigma(r) (32 mg/kg de peso corporal). Duas semanas após confirmação do diabetes, ambos os grupos foram submetidos a uma sessão aguda de natação por 30 min, com carga aeróbia (4,5 % do peso corporal). Foram avaliados: glicose, hematócrito, CK, FA, albumina e a cinética de lactato durante o exercício por meio de coletas 25 µL de sangue da cauda dos animais, nos minutos 0, 10, 20 e 30 de exercício. RESULTADOS: ANOVA de dois fatores para medidas repetidas e o teste post hoc de Tukey apontaram diminuição significativa dos valores de glicemia após o exercício para o grupo DA, aumento significativo de CK pós-exercício para o grupo DA, aumento significativo de hematócrito para ambos os grupos após exercício e manutenção da FA após exercício para o grupo DA. CONCLUSÃO: O exercício agudo aeróbio foi eficiente no controle dos níveis glicêmicos de ratos diabéticos. Entretanto, deve ser aplicado com cautela, pois induziu altos valores de CK, sugerindo possíveis lesões teciduais.

INTRODUCTION: The responses to acute exercise on biomarkers, such as alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and creatine kinase (CK) serum levels have been little investigated in diabetic rats. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects of acute aerobic exercise on the concentrations of CK and ALP as well as evaluating the hydration status in diabetic rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Were used male Wistar rats, young adults, divided into two groups: diabetic (DA) and controls (CA). The diabetes was induced in the rats by administration of alloxan monohydrate Sigma(r) (32 mg/kg body weight). Two weeks after confirmation of diabetes, both groups were subjected to an acute swim session for 30 min, with aerobic load (4.5% body weight). Glucose, hematocrit, CK, ALP, albumin and lactate kinetics during exercise were evaluated by collecting 25µL of blood from the tail of the animals in minutes 0, 10, 20 and 30 of exercise. RESULTS: Two-way ANOVA for repeated measures and post hoc Tukey test showed significant decrease of glycemia after exercise for the DA group, significant increase in CK after exercise for the DA group, significant increase in hematocrit for both groups after exercise and maintenance of ALP after exercise for the DA group. CONCLUSION: The acute aerobic exercise was effective in controlling glucose levels in diabetic rats. However, it should be applied with caution, because it induced high CK values, suggesting possible tissue damage.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Las respuestas al ejercicio agudo de los biomarcadores, como la fosfatasa alcalina (FA) y la creatina quinasa (CK) séricas han sido poco investigadas en ratones diabéticos. OBJETIVOS: Verificar los efectos del ejercicio físico aeróbico agudo sobre las concentraciones de CK y FA, bien como evaluar el estado hídrico en ratones diabéticos experimentales. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Fueron utilizados ratones Wistar machos, adultos jóvenes, distribuidos en dos grupos: diabéticos (DA) y controles (CA). La diabetes fue inducida por medio de la administración de aloxana monohidratado Sigma(r) (32 mg/kg de peso corporal). Dos semanas después de la confirmación de la diabetes, ambos grupos fueron sometidos a una sesión aguda de natación por 30 minutos, con carga aeróbica (4,5% del peso corporal). Fueron evaluados: Glucosa, hematocrito, CK, FA, albumina y La cinética de lactato durante el ejercicio por medio de colectas de 25 µL de sangre de la cola de los animales, en los minutos 0, 10, 20 y 30 de ejercicio. RESULTADOS: ANOVA de dos factores para medidas repetidas y el test post hoc de Tukey apuntaron disminución significativa de los valores de glicemia después del ejercicio para el grupo DA, aumento significativo de CK después del ejercicio para el grupo DA, aumento significativo de hematocrito para ambos grupos después del ejercicio y mantenimiento de la FA después del ejercicio para el grupo DA. CONCLUSIÓN: El ejercicio agudo aeróbico fue eficiente en el control de los niveles glicémicos de ratones diabéticos. Entretanto, debe ser aplicado con cautela, pues indujo altos valores de CK, sugiriendo posibles lesiones tisulares.

O envelhecimento parece comprometer o andar dos indivíduos. Entretanto, ainda não é claro quais são os efeitos do envelhecimento no andar. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar as mudanças nos parâmetros cinemáticos, cinéticos e eletromiográficos do andar livre e adaptativo, em velocidade preferida, causadas pelo envelhecimento. A estratégia de busca inicial foi realizada para identificar os artigos que analisaram o andar livre e adaptativo. Foram utilizadas as bases de dados eletrônicas MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Sports Discus, DARE, PsychInfo, ERIC, AusportMed, AMI, Cochrane e PEDro. Vinte e três artigos foram revisados na íntegra. Idosos são mais lentos, têm menor comprimento do passo e maior duração de duplo suporte do que adultos jovens durante o andar livre e adaptativo. Ainda, eles apresentaram maiores demandas musculares, ocorrendo redistribuição da potência e do torque articular e aplicação de menor força na fase de propulsão e de absorção da massa corporal. Concluiu-se que idosos modificam os parâmetros cinemáticos, cinéticos e eletromiográficos do andar livre e adaptativo quando comparados a adultos jovens.

Aging seems to impair the walking. However, it is not clear the effects of aging on walking. The aim of this study was to determine changes in kinematic, kinetic and electromyographic parameters of the free and adaptive gait, in preferred velocity, caused by aging. The initial search strategy was performed to identify all articles that examined the free and adaptive gait. The electronic databases analyzed were: MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Sports Discus, DARE, PsychInfo, ERIC, AusportMed, AMI, Cochrane and PEDro. Twenty-three articles were reviewed in full. Elderly are slower, with shorter step length and longer double support duration than young adults during free and adaptive gait. Even, they showed higher muscular demands, with redistribution of joint power and torque and decreased force in the propulsion and absorption phases. It was concluded that elderly present altered kinematic, kinetic and electromyographic parameters of free and adaptive gait compared to young adults.