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Abstract Background In most cases, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ACVD) is preventable through primary prevention and control of traditional risk factors, such as smoking cessation, regular physical activity, and adherence to healthy dietary patterns. The assessment of diet quality of ACVD patients would be important for a dietary intervention. Objectives This study aimed to evaluate diet quality of ACVD patients and its association with clinical conditions. Methods This cross-sectional study was nested within a randomized clinical trial entitled “Programa Alimentar Cardioprotetor Brasileiro.” Baseline data of 80 patients from Pelotas, Brazil, were obtained. Food consumption was assessed using 24-h food recall and the Revised Diet Quality Index (IQD-R). Data on smoking status and comorbidities were reported by the patients during medical history taking. To analyze the associations between IQD-R and clinical variables, unpaired Student’s t-test or the analysis of variance was performed. The significance level was 5%. Results Most of the sample consisted of men (66.5%), elderly individuals (52.50%), patients with hypertension (78.75%), dyslipidemia (58.75%), and overweight (73.75%). The average IQD-R score was 56.7 ± 12.6 points. Better quality of diet was observed for patients with diabetes compared to those without diabetes (61.1 ± 11.8 versus 54.0 ± 12.6 points; p=0.014). Conclusion There is a need to improve diet quality of ACVD patients. Patients ACVD and diabetes had better diet quality compared to those without diabetes.

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Abstract Background In tetralogy of Fallot, correction surgery is a priority choice, seeing that it is desirable to minimize pulmonary hypoflow and severe hypoxemia, which result in hypoxemic crises, with sudden worsening of cyanosis, tachypnea, and, in some cases, loss of consciousness, seizures, and even death. Objective To evaluate the predicting factors of surgical mortality in children and adolescents undergoing correction of tetralogy of Fallot. Methods Retrospective cross-sectional study carried out by consulting all surgical records of the Child and Adolescent Cardiology Service of the Brazilian National Institute of Cardiology, during the period from 2007 to 2010. Results with p values < 0.05 were considered significant. Results The study evaluated 93 medical records. In relation to the characteristics of the population at the time of surgery, the median age was 3.69 (2.13 to 5.79) years, and 58.06% (n = 54) were male. White was the most common skin color, accounting for 55.43% (n = 51) of cases. In relation to assessment of nutritional status, median weight was 13.25 (10.10 to 17.60) kg, and body mass index was 14.49 (13.44 to 16.28) kg/m2. Down syndrome was present in 11.83% (n = 11) of the patients. All patients underwent correction surgery (n = 93, 100%). Prior cyanotic crisis was found in 53.85% (n = 49) with p = 0.013; surgical procedure duration was 218.83 ± 60.63 minutes, with p = 0.003, and lactate was 1.88 ± 1.33 mg/dL during the immediate postoperative period, with p = 0.009. Regarding the outcome of surgical death, it was found in 15.05% (n = 14) of patients. Mean follow-up lasted 5.68 ± 3.76 years. Conclusions According to the factors analyzed, the duration of the surgical procedure, prior cyanotic crisis, and blood lactate level may be relevant to surgical mortality.

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Abstract Background Cognitive impairment, anxiety, and depression are present in patients with heart failure (HF), but their mutual correlation in hospitalized patients is not well established. Objectives The aims of this study were to identify the presence of cognitive impairment and the most affected domain, to investigate possible associations of cognitive impairment with depression and/or anxiety, and to observe whether they correlated with occurrence of readmission within 30 days following hospital discharge. Methods This is a prospective observational study including patients with HF from a private hospital. Psychological distress and cognition were evaluated by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and by the Mini Mental State Exam (MMSE), respectively. Clinical data were obtained from the medical record at the time of inclusion, and outpatient follow-up was performed 30 days after discharge via telephone calls. Results This study included 71 patients (83% men, 75 ± 11 years). Cognitive impairment was present in 53.5% of the patients, and recall memory was the most altered cognitive domain. The proportion of possible/probable anxiety and depression was 21.1% and 34.2% in patients with cognitive impairment, respectively. However, only depression demonstrated association with cognitive impairment (p = 0.018). Cognitive impairment, anxiety, and depression showed no relationship with the occurrence of readmission within 30 days. Conclusions Cognitive impairment and depressive symptoms are prevalent and associated, and recall memory was the most altered cognitive domain in patients hospitalized with HF. However, there was no relationship between these factors and readmission within 30 days.

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Abstract Background Atherosclerosis is a condition in which fats, cholesterol, fibrin, and other substances accumulate into plaque on the arterial walls. Plaque can harden and narrow the arteries, in turn limiting the blood flow and resulting in diseases, such as acute myocardial infarction (AMI), ischemic stroke (IS), or peripheral arterial disease (PAD). There is a fairly high risk of a secondary atherosclerotic event if patients are not treated after the primary episode. Objective To calculate the statistical probability of developing AMI, IS, or PAD after treating the primary disease. Methods Data for statistical probability studies included 507,690 patients with primary atherosclerotic disease, who were in treatment during the study period and who did or did not develop a secondary atherosclerotic disease event. Result Statistical probability data indicate that few AMI patients can develop IS (2.99%) or PAD (2.86%) as a secondary disease. Patients with primary diagnoses of IS showed a 5.07% risk of developing PAD and a 0.95% risk of developing AMI; however, PAD patients showed a higher probability for both AMI (9.17%) and IS (8.79%). Conclusion Secondary atherosclerotic disease episodes after IS, AMI, and PAD were confirmed by statistical probability and are consistent with data from the literature. The study revealed that a primary PAD event leads to high rates of secondary episodes, and special attention should be given to the diagnosis and treatment of PAD in order to decrease the occurrence of secondary events.

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Abstract Background Cardiovascular risk factors are prognostic factors in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and have been scarcely studied in Brazil. Objective The aim of this study was to assess the impact of cardiovascular risk factors on the outcomes of patients admitted for COVID-19. Methods From July 2020 to February 2021, 200 patients from two public hospitals were enrolled. Patients were included if they had typical symptoms or signs of COVID-19, a positive real-time polymerase chain reaction test (RT-PCR) for COVID-19, and an age above 18 years. This is a prospective, observational, and longitudinal study. Data were collected within 24 h of admission. The primary endpoint was a combination of hospital lethality, mechanical ventilation, hemodialysis, or length of hospital stay >28 days. Continuous variables were compared with the Student’s t-test for independent samples or the Mann-Whitney test. For comparisons of proportions, the χ 2 test was applied. ROC curves and survival curves were constructed. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors of events. The level of significance was 0.05. Results There were 98 (49%) events during the hospital course, and 72 (36%) died in the hospital. Patients with a primary endpoint were older and more likely to have a history of hypertension, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Vital signs at admission associated with events were diastolic blood pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation in ambient air (O 2 Sat). Serum creatinine >1.37 mg/dL at admission had a sensitivity of 51.6 and a specificity of 82% to predict the primary endpoint, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.68. In multivariate analysis, age, diabetes, CKD, and COPD were independent predictors of the primary endpoint. Age and CKD were independent predictors of in-hospital lethality. Conclusion Cardiovascular risk factors, such as diabetes and CKD, were related to a worse prognosis in patients hospitalized with COVID-19 in this sample from two public hospitals in the state of Rio de Janeiro.

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Abstract Background Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality statistics in Brazil and worldwide. The evaluation of the temporal and spatial distribution of mortality due to CVD is essential to support actions aimed at monitoring the implementation of health policies. Objectives To analyze the temporal trend of mortality due to CVD from 2009 to 2019, as well as the main causes of death according to gender and age group in nine cities of Rio Grande do Sul (RS). Methods This is an ecological study based on data from the Mortality Information System. The rates were stratified according to gender, age group and cause, which were composed of ischemic heart diseases (IHD), cerebrovascular diseases and hypertensive diseases (HD). Prais-Winsten regression was used for time trend estimates. Results Three out of the nine cities analyzed showed a significant reduction in the overall mortality rates due to CVD in the timeframe evaluated (p<0.05). When the cause of death was analyzed, there was a decreasing trend in mortality due to IHD in Caxias do Sul, Ijuí and Porto Alegre. In these cities and also in Passo Fundo and Uruguaiana, there was a decrease in mortality due to cerebrovascular diseases. The cities of Ijuí, Porto Alegre and Santa Maria recorded an increase in hypertensive disease mortality rates. In most cities, there was an increase in rates related to greater age and male sex. Conclusion Heterogeneity was observed in the trend of mortality due to CVD throughout the historical series, which may be related to the execution of public policies and the control of cardiovascular risk factors in the evaluated territories.

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Abstract Introduction Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery is associated with a decline in ventilatory muscle strength and lung function. Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) based on anaerobic threshold (AT) has been used to minimize the impact of CABG on these parameters, but the long-term impact is unknown. Objective To test the hypothesis that AT-based IMT improves inspiratory muscle strength and lung function even six months after CABG. Methods This is a randomized controlled clinical trial. In the preoperative period, maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), maximum expiratory pressure (MEP), vital capacity (VC) and peak expiratory flow (PEF) rate were assessed. On the first postoperative day, patients were randomized into two groups: AT-based IMT (IMT-AT) (n=21) where the load was prescribed based on glycemic threshold and conventional IMT (IMT-C) (n=21), with load of 40% of MIP. Patients were trained during hospitalization until the day of discharge and were assessed at discharge and six months later. For within-group comparison, paired Student's t-test or Wilcoxon test was used, and independent Student's t-test or the Mann-Whitney test was used to analyze the different time points. A p<0.05 was considered significant. Results At six months after CABG surgery, statistical difference was found between the IMT-AT and the IMT-C groups in MIP (difference between the means of -5cmH2; 95% CI=- 8.21to-1.79) and VC (difference between the means of -2ml/kg;95%CI=-3.87to-0.13). No difference was found between groups in the other variables analyzed. Conclusion IMT-AT promoted greater recovery of inspiratory muscle strength and VC after six months of CABG when compared to conventional training.

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Abstract Background Cardiac anomalies are the most prevalent congenital malformations among live births in the world. In Brazil, it is estimated that nearly 25,757 new cases occur each year, and the Southeast region presents the highest prevalence, with 10 new cases/1,000 live births. Objective The aim of this study is to evaluate the epidemiology of congenital heart disease (CHD) in the state of São Paulo. Methods This is a cross-sectional and time-series observational study with data from the Brazilian Information System on Live Births. Heart-related cardiac malformation cases — International Classification of Diseases (ICD) 10th revision Q20.0 to Q24.9 — were selected from January 2010 to December 2018, in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. This study analyzed rates of malformations per year and investigated associated factors, using single and multiple logistic regression models. The significance level adopted in this study was 5%. Results The highest cardiac malformation rate was in the São Paulo metropolitan region (2.84:1000), while the lowest was found in the region of Franca (0.3:1000). The most frequent defect was interatrial communication (38.2%). The main associated factors observed in this study were prematurity of 22 to 27 weeks (OR=4,401 95% CI: 3,796-5,104) — CI: Confidence Interval; OR: Odds ratio —, mother’s age between 35 and 49 years of age (OR=1,602 95% CI: 1,525-1,682), yellow race (OR=1,481 95% CI: 1,235-1,775), triple or more pregnancy (OR=1,438 95% CI: 1,004-2,060), and history of a dead child (OR=1,213 95% CI: 1,152-1,277). Conclusion The main factors associated with this outcome, which are part of the obstetric history of mothers, should be addressed and considered when pregnancy is a planned event.

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Abstract Introduction Nurses from the night shift are exposed to sleep deprivation, which is associated with circadian rhythm alteration, lifestyle changes, psychosocial stress, and, consequently, increased risk of blood pressure (BP) deregulation and hypertension. Objective To analyze risk factors associated with elevated BP levels in nursing workers. Methods A transversal, quantitative study was conducted with 172 nursing professionals of a large hospital in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The following data were collected: anthropometric and BP measurements, sociodemographic characteristics, clinical variables, and lifestyle habits. Results were evaluated by bivariate analysis and logistic regression. The level of significance adopted in the statistical analysis was 5%. Results Participants’ average age was 42.7 ± 9.6 years old; 86.6% (n = 149) were female, and 20.3% (n = 35) had previous diagnosis of hypertension. Overweight and obesity (odds ratio [OR]: 2.187, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.060 – 4.509) and night shift (OR: 2.100, CI 95%: 1.061 – 4.158) were statistically significant (p < 0.05) for increased risk of elevated BP level. Conclusion Excessive weight and night shift were significant factors for increased BP in nursing workers.

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Abstract Background The incidence of diabetes mellitus in younger adults is rising over the years. The diabetic population has an increased risk of developing heart failure, and diabetic individuals with heart failure have four times greater mortality rate. Studies results about exercise effect on left ventricular function in type 2 diabetes mellitus are heterogenous. Objective This review aimed to analyze the effects of physical exercise on left ventricular dysfunction in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods Only randomized clinical trials with humans published in English were included. Inclusion criteria were studies with type 2 diabetes patients, physical exercise, control group and left ventricular function. Exclusion criteria were studies with animals, children, teenagers, elderly individuals and athletes, presence of diet intervention, and patients with type 1 diabetes, cancer, cardiac, pulmonary, or neurological diseases. Electronic databases PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Scopus were last searched in September 2021. Risk of bias was assessed by the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. Results Five studies were included, representing 314 diabetic individuals submitted to resistance and aerobic exercise training. Of the variables analyzed, physical exercise improved peak torsion (PTo), global longitudinal strain, global strain rate (GSR), time to peak untwist rate (PUTR), early diastolic filling rate (EDFR) and peak early diastolic strain rate (PEDSR). Conclusion To our knowledge, this is the first systematic review on the effects of exercise on left ventricular function in T2DM including only randomized clinical trials with humans. Physical exercise seems to improve systolic and diastolic strain, twist, and torsion. High intensity exercise was reported to be superior to moderate intensity exercise in one study. This review was limited by the small number of studies and their heterogeneity regarding exercise protocols, follow-up period, exercise supervision and left ventricular function variables analyzed. This review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021234964).

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Abstract Background Recent reports in the literature have indicated that infection by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) causes cardiac complications, such as heart failure, arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, and even fulminant myocarditis. These complications have been identified as the cause of death in some patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. Objectives To analyze echocardiographic and electrocardiographic changes, treatments used, and clinical outcomes in patients with myocarditis and COVID-19. Methods The items described for Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) were followed. This review included articles in English, Portuguese, and Spanish that reported cardiac involvement, injury, or myocardial inflammation in patients who acquired COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2). Results Five databases were consulted to find 1,726 articles. After applying the eligibility criteria, a total of 22 studies were considered qualified. ST-segment (section of the electrocardiogram corresponding the end of the S wave to the beginning of the T wave) elevation and tachyarrhythmia were the most common changes found in the electrocardiographic analysis of patients affected with COVID-19. Concerning echocardiography, there was a high frequency of decreased ejection fraction and occurrence of pericardial effusion. Conclusion This systematic review provides a potential tool for the analysis of cardiac changes and implications caused in patients affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection, with emphasis on the presence of tachyarrhythmia on electrocardiogram (ECG) and decreased ejection fraction on echocardiogram.

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Abstract Background Dental anesthetic management in implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) recipients with cardiac channelopathies (CCh) can be challenging due to the potential risk of life-threatening arrhythmias and appropriate ICD therapies during procedural time. Objectives The present study assessed the hypothesis that the use of local dental anesthesia with 2% lidocaine with 1:100,000 epinephrine or without a vasoconstrictor can be safe in selected ICD and CCh patients, not resulting in life-threatening events (LTE). Methods Restorative dental treatment under local dental anesthesia was made in two sessions, with a wash-out period of 7 days (cross-over trial), conducting with a 28h - Holter monitoring, and 12-lead electrocardiography, digital sphygmomanometry, and anxiety scale assessments in 3 time periods. Statistical analysis carried out the paired Student’s t test and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. In all cases, a significance level of 5% was adopted. All patients were in stable condition with no recent events before dental care. Results Twenty-four consecutive procedures were performed in 12 patients (9 women, 3 men) with CCh and ICD: 7 (58.3%) had long QT syndrome (LQTS), 4 (33.3%) Brugada syndrome (BrS), and 1 (8.3%) Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT). Holter analysis showed no increased heart rate (HR) or sustained arrhythmias. Blood pressure (BP), electrocardiographic changes and anxiety measurement showed no statistically significant differences. No LTE occurred during dental treatment, regardless of the type of anesthesia. Conclusion Lidocaine administration, with or without epinephrine, can be safely used in selected CCh-ICD patients without LTE. These preliminary findings need to be confirmed in a larger population with ICD and CCh.

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Abstract Background Literature is scarce on echocardiographic characteristics of COVID-19 patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Objectives To describe echocardiographic characteristics of ICU COVID-19 patients and associate them with clinical signals/symptoms, laboratory findings and outcomes. Methods Patients with RT-PCR-confirmed COVID-19, admitted to the ICU, who underwent echocardiography were included. Clinical characteristics associated with an abnormal echocardiogram (systolic ventricular dysfunction of any degree — left and/or right ventricle — and/or high filling pressures and/or moderate to severe pericardial effusion) were analyzed. Groups were compared using the Student’s t-test, chi-square, and logistic regression. A p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results A total of 140 patients met inclusion criteria, and 74 (52.9%) had an abnormal echocardiogram. A low number of left and right ventricular systolic dysfunction was observed, and 35% of the population had a normal diastolic function. In the univariate analysis, characteristics associated with abnormal echocardiogram were age, chronic kidney disease, elevated troponin, previous heart failure, and simplified acute physiology score 3 (SAPS 3). In the regression model, troponin and SAPS3 score were independent markers of abnormal echocardiogram. An abnormal echocardiogram was associated with a higher prevalence of in-hospital death (RR 2.10; 95% CI 1.04-4.24) and orotracheal intubation (RR 2.3; 95% CI 1.14-4.78). Conclusions COVID-19 has little effect on ventricular function, but it is common to find increased filling pressures. Elevated serum troponin level and SAPS3 score were the independent markers of an abnormal echocardiogram. In addition, the prevalence of in-hospital death and need for mechanical ventilation were higher in patients with abnormal echocardiogram.

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Abstract Background Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia. The main cause of death among diabetics is cardiovascular disease (CVD), which is a precursor to acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Approximately 30% of diabetic patients with AMI require myocardial revascularization surgery (MRS). Objective To evaluate the prevalence of MRS in diabetic and non-diabetic patients after AMI in a hospital in the city Criciúma, Brazil, during the period from 2016 to 2019. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out with secondary data collection, with analysis of 215 medical records of diabetic and non-diabetic patients with AMI, submitted or not to MRS during the study period. For statistical analysis, the Shapiro-Wilk test, Pearson’s chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test were used, with a significance level of α = 0.05. Results The frequency of diabetic AMI patients with hypertension (88.1%) was significantly higher (p<0.01) than of diabetic AMI patients without hypertension. Although no statistically significant differences were found in the other variables between the groups, smoking, hypertension and dyslipidemia were more prevalent in diabetic than in non-diabetic patients with AMI undergoing MRS. Conclusion The prevalence of MRS after AMI in diabetic patients was higher than in non-diabetic patients.

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Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most frequent arrhythmia, and its prevalence increases with age. The management of AF in the elderly is challenging, as it is normally associated with comorbidities and frailty. AF catheter ablation (CA) is a safe and superior alternative to antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) for the maintenance of sinus rhythm. Objectives To evaluate the rate of complications associated with CA for AF across different age groups. Methods A retrospective analysis of 219 patients who underwent CA for AF between 2016 and 2020 were divided into 3 age groups: less than 60 years, 60 to 70 years, and > 70 years. All the included patients underwent radiofrequency ablation using an electroanatomic mapping system. Categorical variables were evaluated with chi-square and Fisher’s test, and continuous variables were evaluated by Kruskal-Wallis and post-hoc Tamhane’s T2. P values less than 0.05 were considered significant. Results We found an overall total complication rate of 4.6%. The total complication rate was 3.3% in patients < 60 years of age, 5.7% in patients between 60 and 70 years, and 5.2% in patients > 70 years (p = 0.742). No deaths occurred. Conclusion There was no significant difference in the AF CA-related complications when comparing the patients by age group.

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Abstract Background In view of the absence of effective therapy for COVID-19, many studies have been conducted seeking to identify determining factors for the development of severe forms, aiming to direct efforts to avoid the worst outcomes in patients susceptible to severe conditions. One of the main comorbidities associated with complicated forms of the disease is systemic arterial hypertension (SAH). Objective To assess aspects of the clinical, demographic, laboratory, and radiological characteristics of hypertensive patients with COVID-19 to contribute to the knowledge of the relationship between the presence of this comorbidity and the severity of the disease. Methods A total of 380 patients with a diagnosis of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection hospitalized between June and August 2020 were included. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of a previous diagnosis of hypertension. For comparison between groups, a significant difference was established if p < 0.05. Results Of the total of 380 patients, 202 (53.16%) had a clinical diagnosis of SAH. Hypertensive patients were significantly older (p < 0.01) and had more comorbidities (p < 0.01) than the non-hypertensive group. In laboratory tests, hypertensive patients had higher levels of blood glucose (p = 0.014), creatinine (p = 0.002), and urea (p = 0.003), while values for alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (p < 0.01), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (p = 0.006), and sodium (p = 0.024) were lower. There was no difference between groups in radiographic parameters. Conclusions This study showed that, although the hypertensive group had some laboratory alterations that elicited severe disease, these patients did not have worse outcomes.

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Abstract Background Controlling blood pressure and glycemic levels is a challenge that requires innovative solutions. Objective To assess the feasibility of implementing a text message intervention among low-income primary care patients, as well as to assess self-reported behavioral change. Methods A set of 200 text messages was developed on healthy eating, physical activity, adherence, and motivation. Participants from Vale do Mucuri, MG, Brazil diagnosed with diabetes or hypertension or undergoing screening for those diseases, received 5 to 8 messages per week for 6 months. They answered a questionnaire to report their satisfaction and behavioral changes. Results Of the 136 patients, 117 (86.0%) answered the questionnaire. Most reported that the messages were very useful (86.3%), easy to understand (90.6%), and were very helpful for behavioral change (65.0%); 84.6% reported that they had started eating healthier. The most frequent reported lifestyle changes were: improved diet quality (85.5%), reduced portions (65.8%), and weight loss (56.4%). The majority of patients shared the messages (60.7%) with family or other acquaintances, considered the number of messages to be adequate (89.7%) and would recommend the program to others (95.7%). Conclusion An intervention based on text messages to promote behavioral change in patients with hypertension or diabetes in primary care is feasible in low-resource settings. Future studies are needed to assess the program’s long-term effects on clinical outcomes.

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Abstract Background: Monocytes are essential components in inflammatory signaling, and their recruitment is crucial in the signaling pathway, which directs and determines cell adhesion to the activated endothelium. A better understanding of the correlation between monocyte subsets and inflammatory signaling in patients with atherosclerotic disease in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is essential for the development of more effective therapies for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Objective: To analyze differences between biomarkers and monocyte activation in the setting of ischemic heart disease. Methods: This was a case-control study comparing biomarkers and monocyte subsets between patients with ACS with and without ST-segment elevation and individuals without coronary stenosis. The nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis test was used to assess differences between groups, and Dunn's post hoc test was used to identify which groups were different. Cuzick's test for ordered group trends was used to assess falling or rising trends. Participants were classified into 3 groups: control (0); non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) (1); ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) D1 (2). Results: Forty-seven patients with ACS and 19 controls with no obstructive lesions on coronary angiography were recruited. Monocyte profile assessment was statistically different regarding time of symptom onset and the presence or absence of atherosclerotic disease (Kruskal-Wallis, p = 0.0009). Dunn's post hoc test showed a significant difference between the control group and the STEMI D1 (p = 0.0014), STEMI D3 (p = 0.0036), and STEMI D7 (p = 0.0195) groups, corresponding to a 2-fold increase in classical (p = 0.0022) and nonclassical (p = 0.0031) monocytes compared with controls. For classical monocytes, there was a difference between the control group and all STEMI groups and between the NSTEMI group and the STEMI D1, D3, and D7 groups. For nonclassical monocytes, there was a difference between the control group and the STEMI D7 group (p = 0.0056) and between the NSTEMI group and the STEMI D7 group (p = 0.0166). Conclusion: This study found that there was an increase in total and classical monocyte mobilization at the time of acute myocardial infarction in patients with ACS.

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Abstract Background: Children and adolescents should be encouraged to participate in sports; however, physicians should screen for cardiac abnormalities that can lead to sudden death. The European Society of Cardiology, the Brazilian Society of Cardiology and the Brazilian Society of Sports Medicine indicate performing an electrocardiogram (ECG) in evaluating athletes, while the American Heart Association indicates complementary exams only when there is a personal or family history of cardiovascular diseases or changes in clinical examination. Objectives: To evaluate the need for an ECG in evaluating children and adolescents before starting physical activities. Methods: We recruited 983 children and adolescents who practiced physical activities for anthropometric assessment, clinical examination and conventional ECG at rest. Variables were analysed using the Goodman test with a significance level of 5%. Results: Participants had a higher incidence of overweight, obesity and severe obesity compared to standard World Health Organization (WHO) values. The most common finding in clinical examination was heart murmur (18.5% of participants). Electrocardiographic changes were found in 3.3% of participants, including paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia and pre-excitation syndrome, which may be responsible for sudden death, even in asymptomatic individuals with no personal or family history of heart disease and no abnormality on clinical examination. Conclusions: ECG revealed arrhythmias that were not detected by clinical examination and may precede sudden death in individuals subjected to physical exertion, indicating its role in the assessment of children and adolescents before starting regular physical exercise.

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Abstract Background: Stroke is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in the Southeast Region of Brazil, and it is impacted by socioeconomic conditions and the age of the population in the region. Objectives: The objective of this study was to estimate the burden of stroke in the adult population, for both sexes, in different age groups, in the Southeast Region of Brazil, in the year 2019. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted with secondary data on stroke, obtained from the Department of Informatics of the Brazilian Unified Health System (DATASUS) and the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), to calculate years of life lost (YLL), years lived with disability (YLD), and disability-adjusted life years (DALY). Results: In the year 2019, in the Southeast Region of Brazil, a total of 713,132 DALY were estimated, 80% from YLD and 20% from YLL. The highest values were from the state of São Paulo, as it is the most populous state; in the female sex, due to the greater number of female inhabitants; and in the age group between 40 and 59 years. However, when adjusted to a rate of 100,000 inhabitants, the greatest impact was for the male sex in the state of Minas Gerais, mainly in the age group between 70 and 79 years. Conclusions: YLD were more relevant in the composition of DALY, due to higher stroke morbidity than mortality, and high stroke DALY burdens impact the economically active population in this region.

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Abstract Background Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) are the main cause of mortality in Brazil, which includes acute myocardial infarction (AMI). In 2017, 12% of deaths caused by infarction in Brazil occurred in the state of Rio de Janeiro, characterizing it as an important “hotspot” in the country. Objectives This study aimed to characterize the population affected by AMI over the past decade within the state so as to guide future public policies related to CVDs. Methods Secondary data of patients affected by AMI between 2010 and 2019 were obtained by DATASUS. In-hospital case-fatality rates, mortality rates, and proportional mortality were calculated using information gathered by the Mortality Information System (SIM) and demographic statistics produced by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). Results The main results showed that in-hospital case-fatality rates were higher in women, patients aged 60 years and over, the black color/race, and the state's Northwest region. The mortality rate was higher among men, especially in the South-central region and those over 50 years of age. People aged 40-49 years presented a considerable risk of death by infarction. The major categories of data classified as “ignored” in hospital admissions and death certificates were those related to race and education level. Conclusions Prevention should not only focus on the elderly, but also on people over 40, especially men. The incompleteness of electronic public data systems can affect the use of race/color or education level as epidemiological variables. New studies should be conducted to understand why the South-central region is so heavily affected by infarction.

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Abstract Background Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) without obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) is a medical condition of great relevance, with clinical characteristics of AMI, but without evidence of coronary artery obstruction. The mechanism involved in the pathophysiology of the disease and its possible etiologies are important objects of study due to their impact on the morbidity and mortality of affected patients. Objectives The aim of this study was to systematically review MINOCA and its characteristics, with emphasis on the clinical profile of patients, etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of the syndrome. Methods Relevant articles related to MINOCA were analyzed in the PubMed and LILACS databases. In the initial search stage, 619 eligible articles were obtained, with final inclusion criteria being: original systematic reviews with clinical, epidemiological, diagnostic, or treatment data on MINOCA, published in Portuguese or English, with an abstract, and a publication date limit of September 2020. Results A total of 10 articles classified as systematic reviews that considered clinical data on MINOCA were included in this review. Conclusion After analyzing various literature, the present study provided a tool to better understand MINOCA, not only regarding its casuistry but also in grouping parameters and information that contribute to a healthy approach to this clinical situation. It was possible to identify and better outline the clinical profile of patients who presented this condition and the use of appropriate tools for correct diagnosis and ideal treatment.

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Abstract Background There are few publications about the association between the phytochemical index (PI) and risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Objective To evaluate the association between the PI and risk factors for cardiovascular disease in adults. Methods This was a cross-sectional study with 141 adults, between 20 and 59 years of age. We analyzed lifestyle (physical activity), sociodemographic data (sex, age), anthropometric data (body mass index [BMI], waist circumference [WC]), biochemical data (lipid profile, blood glucose), food consumption, and phytochemical intake (expressed as PI = daily energy derived from phytochemical-rich foods ÷ total daily energy intake × 100). We performed bivariate analyses (Spearman’s correlation) and multiple linear regression adjusted for potential confounders, considering p < 0.05 as significant. Results The median PI was 9.80 (interquartile range: 11.45). PI was inversely correlated with BMI (rs: −0.43) and WC (rs: −0.36) and positively correlated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-cholesterol) (rs: 0.25), all with p < 0.05. In multiple regression analysis, PI was inversely associated with BMI (B: −0.08; 95%CI: −0.15, −0.01) after adjusting for total energy, sex, age, and physical activity; and positively associated with HDL-cholesterol (Model 1 adjusted for total energy, sex, age, and physical activity [B: 0.21; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.41]; Model 2 adjusted for BMI, sex, age, and physical activity [B: 0.21; 95% CI: 0.008, 0.40]; Model 3 adjusted for WC, sex, age, and physical activity [B: 0.20; 95%CI: 0.01, 0.40]), all with p < 0.05. Conclusion The results have demonstrated that higher phytochemical intake, expressed by PI, was inversely associated with BMI and positively associated with HDL-cholesterol.

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Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The coexistence of high thromboembolic and hemorrhagic risks, added to the lack of strong scientific evidence on the safety of anticoagulants in the setting of renal failure, makes this a clinically challenging situation. Objectives To describe the clinical-demographic profile and prevalence of AF in the population with ESRD undergoing dialysis. Secondary objectives include the assessment of thromboembolic (CHA2DS2VASC) and bleeding (HASBLED) risk scores. Methods Cross-sectional analytical-descriptive study, carried out between January and March 2020. Patients with ESRD were evaluated by means of a medical history questionnaire, physical examination, and 12-lead electrocardiogram. A chi-square (χ2) association test was applied to calculate association between clinical variables and AF, with a significance level of α = 0.05. Results This study evaluated 295 patients, most of whom were men (170), elderly (63, IQR 53-71), current smokers (130), with associated cardio-endocrine comorbidities. The prevalence of AF was 6.7% (20). Heart failure (HF) (χ2=15.417; p<0.001), age of 65 years or older (χ2=14.584; p<0.001), and anticoagulation (χ2=5.715; p<0.01) were associated with AF. The median CHA2DS2VASC and HASBLED was 4 and 3, respectively. Eight patients were taking warfarin and five were receiving apixaban. Conclusion The prevalence of AF in this study is similar to that reported in other published articles on the subject, and patients were at high risk for cardiovascular outcomes. Non-anticoagulation strategy was commonly adopted due to controversies in the literature as well as the absence of published randomized clinical trials.

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Abstract Background Refractory hypertension (RfH) is a severe phenotype of resistant hypertension (RH) linked to higher risk of stroke and other adverse cardiovascular events, but knowledge about it is still lacking. Objectives To evaluate the association between RfH and stroke. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study in a referral clinic for patients with severe hypertension in the period from 2018 to 2020. RH was defined as uncontrolled blood pressure (BP) despite the use of 3 antihypertensive agents, including a diuretic, or the use of ≥ 4 agents regardless of BP control. RfH was defined as lack of BP control despite use of ≥ 5 antihypertensive agents. Individuals were classified as RfH or RH, and multivariate logistic regression models were constructed to examine the association between RfH and stroke. Results We evaluated a total of 137 patients; 81% were female, and 93,3% were Black or multiracial. The mean age was 64.4 years. Stroke was more prevalent in the RfH group (35.7%), in comparison to the RH group (12.8%) (p value = 0.01). Unadjusted odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for factors associated with stroke were RfH (OR 3.77; 95% CI 1.45 to 9.80), systolic BP (OR 1.02; 95% CI 1.002 to 1.04) and diastolic BP (OR 1.03; 95% CI 1.001 to 1.06). Adjusted OR for factors associated with stroke were RfH (OR 3.55; 95% CI 1.02 to 12.42), systolic BP (OR 1.02; 95% CI 0.99 to 1.05) and diastolic BP (OR 1.01; 95% CI 0.96 to 1.06). Conclusion RfH was associated with higher prevalence of stroke. Efforts are required to better understand this association to prevent adverse cardiovascular outcomes in these patients.

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Abstract Introduction Myocardial revascularization surgery is associated with high morbidity and mortality, due to factors like the general anesthesia and the surgical procedure itself. Physiotherapy, combined with early mobilization (EM), can provide the patient with better functional parameters. Objective To review, identify and describe the effectiveness of EM in the prevention and rehabilitation of functional parameters of coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Methodology This is a systematic review conducted between February 2020 and 2021 of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published in the Cochrane databases Library, LILACS, Scielo and Medline / PubMed. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale was used for assessment of the methodological quality of studies included. Results Four studies were reviewed. Two articles assessed functional capacity, one using the cycle ergometer and one with inspiratory muscle training (IMT) together with active exercises and early walking. One article reported a reduction in the incidence of atelectasis and pleural effusion with EM and one article reported improvements in the alveolus-artery gradient and inspiratory muscle power using an inspiratory muscle trainer combined with EM. Conclusion EM is effective in the prevention and rehabilitation of functional parameters after CABG surgery, by improving functional capacity, respiratory muscle power, quality of life and gas exchange, and reducing the incidence of atelectasis and pleural effusion.

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Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic has changed food consumption. Objective Evaluate the association between metabolic phenotypes, changes in food consumption during the pandemic, and health outcomes in obese women. Methods Cross-sectional observational study including 491 women without previous diagnosis of chronic diseases, evaluated according to metabolic phenotype. During the pandemic, a subsample was re-evaluated by online questionnaires via Google Forms. Analyzed anthropometric, biochemical, and dietary data as well as health outcomes (coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia or death). Information on mortality was collected from the Internal Affairs Office of the State of Rio de Janeiro and the Health Department of the State of Rio de Janeiro. Statistical analysis was performed using the statistical program SPSS 21, with Mann-Whitney test, Pearson’s chi-squared, Spearman correlation, and binary logistic regression, at a significance level of 5%. Results The anthropometric, glucose, and lipid profiles showed significant differences between the metabolically healthy and metabolically unhealthy groups (p = 0.00). Before the pandemic, women in the metabolically unhealthy group had higher dietary intakes of lipids (p = 0.01), saturated fat (p = 0.01) and sodium (p = 0.04), during the pandemic, they consumed more energy (p = 0.04), lipids (p = 0.02), saturated fat (p = 0.02), proteins (p = 0.03) and sodium from ultra-processed foods (p = 0.03). Consequently, health outcomes were more prevalent in the metabolically unhealthy group (p = 0.00). Conclusion Observed that metabolically healthy women had qualitatively better food intake and fewer health outcomes throughout the study.

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Abstract Background Direct anticoagulants (DOACs) and vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) differ in pharmacokinetic characteristics, intensity of required laboratory monitoring, and costs. These differences could affect patients' adherence to treatment and quality of life (QoL). Objective To assess whether patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) using DOACs have better treatment adherence and QoL when compared to patients using VKAs. Methods We conducted a systematic review in Medline, Embase, LILACS, SciELO, CINAHL, and Cochrane Central, until June 9, 2021. We included studies that estimated and compared treatment adherence and QoL between DOACs and VKAs in adults with non-valvular AF. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tools. The protocol was registered in the PROSPERO (CRD 42020165238). Results Sixteen studies, including 122,458 patients with non-valvular AF, evaluated adherence, and eleven studies, including 5,687 patients, assessed QoL. A variety of methods was used to measure adherence. Eleven studies showed no difference in adherence between DOACs and VKAs, while three studies favored VKAs over DOACs and two studies favored DOACs over VKAs. QoL was measured by specific (n = 3) or generic questionnaires (n = 8); results favored DOACs over VKAs in four studies, while in the other seven studies the results showed no difference between the groups. Meta-analyses were not performed due to high methodological heterogeneity among studies. Conclusions Available evidence regarding treatment adherence and QoL with DOACs and VKAs is characterized by methodological heterogeneity and conflicting findings.

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Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the routine of emergency centers around the world, including in Brazil, where the crisis has affected the volume of major cardiac surgeries such as coronary artery bypass grafting. Objective To analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the number of surgical procedures for coronary artery bypass grafting in Brazil. Methods An ecological, cross-sectional, quantitative, and descriptive study was conducted. Data for the period from July 2018 to June 2019 and from July 2020 to June 2021 were collected from SIHSUS using DATASUS/Tabwin. Results A global reduction of 26.58% was observed in the analyzed population, with on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting decreasing by 28.10%, and off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting reduced by only 10.31%. Conclusion During the pandemic, there was a 26.58% reduction in the number of surgical procedures for myocardial revascularization in Brazil.

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Abstract Background International publications have shown that the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted the indicators of care for ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI), with a potential increase in morbidity and mortality. Objectives To compare mortality, time from symptom onset to primary angioplasty (total delay [TD]), time from symptom onset to initial medical contact (patient delay [PD]), and time from initial medical contact to guidewire insertion in the hemodynamics laboratory (system delay [SD]) among patients admitted for STEMI at the Hemodynamics Service of Santa Casa de Passos, Minas Gerais, Brazil before and after the declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic by the World Health Organization, assessing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on STEMI care indicators. Methods This is a before-and-after study involving patients hospitalized with STEMI undergoing primary angioplasty. Data were collected retrospectively through medical record review. Clinical and demographic profiles and outcomes between the pre-pandemic and pandemic groups were compared using the chi-square test for categorical variables or Student's t-test for continuous variables. A significance level of p < 0.05 was adopted. Results There were no differences in TD (pre-pandemic: 300 min [± 159 min], 95% CI 277.1 to 322.6; pandemic: 300 min [± 148 min], 95% CI 274.3 to 326.6, p = 0.97). However, there was an increase in SD (pre-pandemic: 145 min [± 97 min], 95% CI 122.7 to 167.9; pandemic: 178 min [± 96 min], 95% CI 157.4 to 197.9, p = 0.037). There was no increase in PD (pre-pandemic: 145 min ± 133 min; pandemic: 130 min ± 117 min, p = 0.44), and no differences in mortality were observed (pre-pandemic: 9.7%; pandemic: 12%, p = 0.49). Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic increased SD in the management of STEMI in the region of Passos, Minas Gerais. There were no differences in PD, TD, and in-hospital mortality.

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Abstract Background Dietary treatment containing fiber-rich foods may contribute to lowering weight in obese women. Objective To investigate the effect of a hypoenergetic diet combined with pumpkin seed flour (PSF) consumption on diet quality, anthropometric indices, and glucose and lipid metabolism in obese women. Methods We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 90-day clinical trial with obese women, distributed into the following two groups: hypoenergetic diet + placebo (PG) and hypoenergetic diet + pumpkin seed flour (PSFG). A total of 100 participants were included in the PSFG (n = 47) and PG (n = 53). We evaluated neck circumference (NC); waist to height ratio; conicity index; fat mass (FM); lipid profile; blood concentrations of glucose and insulin; homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR); quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI); and blood pressure at baseline, 30, 60, and 90 days. Dietary analysis was determined by differences between diet quality indices before and after prescribing the experimental diet. Chi-squared, Student’s t-tests and analysis for repeated measures were used, and values were considered significant at p < 0.05. Results The dietary pattern improved after 90 days in both groups. The PSFG presented lower NC (p < 0.001), FM (p = 0.010), triglycerides (TG) (p = 0.025), insulin (p = 0.003), and HOMA-IR (p = 0.018). The PG presented a lower diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.004) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) (p = 0.056). Conclusion A hypoenergetic diet combined with PSF consumption contributes to lowering NC, FM, HOMA-IR, TG, and insulin concentrations.

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Abstract Background Warfarin is the only oral anticoagulant available in the Brazilian public health system. Health knowledge and treatment are essential to achieving the desirable therapeutic effect. However, data on these aspects among primary care patients are still lacking. Objective To assess health literacy, patient knowledge, and adherence to oral anticoagulation with warfarin, as well as the medication regimen complexity in primary health units in the municipality of Divinópolis, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Methods This cross-sectional study included patients using warfarin from primary care settings. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected from medical records. Short Assessment of Health Literacy for Portuguese-Speaking Adults (SAHLPA-18), Oral Anticoagulation Knowledge (OAK), adaptation of the Measure of Adherence to Treatment (MAT-adapted) to oral anticoagulation, and Medication Regimen Complexity Index (MRCI) were applied, and the time in therapeutic range (TTR) was calculated. Patients were stratified in two groups (TTR < 60% and TTR ≥ 60%) and compared using Fisher's exact test at a significance level of p < 0.050. Results Analysis included 162 patients (64.8 ± 12.7 years old, 55.6% women). Nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (26.5%) and venous thromboembolism (24.1%) were the main indications for warfarin, and 67.9%, 88.3%, and 16.7% of the patients had inadequate health literacy, insufficient knowledge regarding anticoagulant therapy, and non-adherence to warfarin therapy, respectively. There was no significant association of these parameters in relation to TTR. MRCI showed high pharmacotherapy complexity between the drug prescriptions. Conclusion This study showed alarming insufficient knowledge about warfarin therapy and low health literacy in primary care patients.

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Abstract Background Arterial stiffness and hypertension are strong predictors of cardiovascular disease and mortality. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) are first-line antihypertensive agents in reducing blood pressure and arterial stiffness. Objective The objective of this study was to compare the effects of ACEI and ARB in reducing arterial stiffness and preventing target organ damage in patients with hypertension. Methods This observational study included 654 participants who attend routine consultations at an outpatient hypertension clinic in 2 university hospitals. Patients were interviewed, and they underwent central and peripheral blood pressure measurements. Doppler echocardiography, carotid ultrasound, biochemical tests, and anthropometric parameters were carried out. Shapiro-Wilk, chi-square, and Fisher’s exact test were used. A significance level of 5% was adopted. Results A total of 659 participants were evaluated in the study (398 from the ARB group and 256 from the ACEI group). Age, body mass index (BMI), central and peripheral blood pressure measurements, pulse wave velocity (PWV), left ventricular mass index, and carotid intima-media thickness did not show differences between the groups (p > 0.05). After linear regression analysis, the ACEI group had lower values of total vascular resistance (TVR) (p = 0.003) and augmentation pressure (p = 0.008), when compared to the ARB group. Conclusion This study showed that the ACEI group had a greater reduction in augmentation pressure and PWV. There were no differences between the groups regarding the improvement of outcomes related to central arterial pressure, PWV, and cardiac and vascular target organ damage.

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Abstract Background: Home-based virtual reality technology may become an alternative to cardiac rehabilitation. Objectives: To evaluate the effects of a specific, home-based exercise program, performed either through a virtual reality (Kinect) or a conventional format (booklet) in the maintenance stage of cardiac rehabilitation for six months on functional muscle strength of the lower limbs, physical activity and exercise tolerance. Methodology: This is a randomized clinical trial (ClinicalTrials.gov — NCT02753829) with individuals with coronary artery disease from a hospital in Porto, Portugal, randomly allocated to an experimental group “1” (EG1; n = 11), submitted to a virtual reality exercise program (Kinect); an experimental group “2” (EG2; n = 11), submitted to an exercise program described in a booklet (conventional format); or a control group (CG) (n=11), submitted to routine care. Parameters of functional muscle strength of the lower limbs (sit-to-stand test), physical activity (accelerometer) and exercise tolerance (stress test) were assessed and compared between the groups. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied, with 95% with a significance level of 0.05. Results: Significant improvements in functional muscle strength of the lower limbs were observed in EG1 compared to EG2, at three months (19.5 ± 7.7 versus 11.9 ± 4.7, p = 0.042), and at six months (23.0 ± 7.7 versus 14.6 ± 4.6, p = 0.027) of intervention. Conclusions: The program did not demonstrate superior results, in relation to the control group and among the different formats, in physical activity and effort tolerance. In relation to the functional muscle strength of the lower limbs, the virtual reality format showed significantly better results when compared to the conventional format only.

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Abstract Background: It is estimated that more than 30% of the Brazilian population has systemic arterial hypertension (SAH), and mostly as an uncontrolled disease. The most recent Brazilian Guideline of Hypertension recommends the practice of self-measurement of blood pressure (BP) as one of the strategies for a better control of SAH, but there is no consensus about the efficiency of this tool. Objective: To assess the control of SAH and the practice of non-targeted self-measured BP (SMBP) among hypertensive users of the Unified Health System (SUS) and the Supplementary Network (SN). Methods: This is a cross-sectional, observational, analytical study, with a stratified probability sample. One thousand volunteers were investigated, being 500 from SUS and 500 from the SN. Uni and multivariate analyses were performed considering a 5% significance level. Results: Patients from SUS presented inferior sociodemographic data (schooling, social status) in relation to those of the SN (p < 0.001), and showed lower control of SAH (p = 0.014), as well as more visits to the emergency room in the past year due to hypertension (p = 0.002), and fewer regular appointments with the cardiologist (p = 0.004). SMBP was equally present in both assessed groups (p = 0.567), even though users of the SN have been more advised to not conduct such a practice (p = 0.002). SMBP (p < 0.001) was an independent factor for uncontrolled SAH both in SUS (OR = 3.424) and in the SN (OR = 3.474). Conclusion: Patients in SUS presented lower SAH control. The practice of SMBP, mostly practiced with an uncalibrated digital device, was equally present in both groups and became an independent factor of uncontrolled SAH.

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Abstract Background: Religiosity and Spirituality (R/S), despite being different entities, are multidimensional constructs, whose influence on cardiovascular health has been increasingly studied in recent decades. Objectives: To discriminate patients into subgroups according to R/S levels, in order to compare them regarding the distribution of cardiovascular comorbidities and clinical events. Methods: This is an observational, cross-sectional, analytical study. Two R/S scales were applied to a sample of patients seen at cardiology outpatient clinics. A cluster analysis was used to discriminate individuals into subgroups regarding R/S levels, which were subsequently compared regarding the frequencies of clinical variables related to cardiovascular health. A significance level of 5% was set for the statistical tests. Results: The sample included 237 patients with a mean age of 60.8 years (±10.7), of which 132 were female (55.7%). Cluster analysis (C) distinguished two groups: C1, with lower levels of R/S, and C2, with higher levels of R/S (p<0.001). C2 had a lower frequency of alcohol consumption (29.5% vs. 76.0%; p<0.001), smoking (12.9% vs. 51.0%; p<0.001), systemic arterial hypertension (SAH — 65.5% vs. 82.3%; p=0.005), dyslipidemia (58.3% vs. 77.1%; p=0.003), chronic coronary syndrome (36.7% vs. 58.3%; p=0.001), and prior cardiovascular events (15.8% vs. 36.5%; p<0.001) when compared to C1. There was also a higher frequency of females in C2 (82.0% vs. 17.7%; p<0.001). Conclusions: A better cardiovascular morbidity profile was observed in the group of patients with higher R/S levels, suggesting a probable positive relationship between R/S and cardiovascular health.

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Abstract Background: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) can cause permanent damage to vascular structures by directly or indirectly affecting the cardiopulmonary system. Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is an important identified risk factor for vascular endothelial cell dysfunction. Objective: The aim of this study was to reveal the relationship between Lp(a) levels measured at the time of COVID-19 diagnosis and the pulmonary artery (PA) to the ascending aorta (Ao) ratio (PA:Ao ratio) in survivors evaluated by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). Methods: The study sample consisted of 100 patients who recovered from COVID-19 in the past 3 to 6 months. The relationship between the change in the PA:Ao ratio (ΔPA:Ao) and the Lp(a) levels measured at the time of diagnosis was evaluated. Diameter measurements at baseline and follow-up were evaluated with TTE. Results: A significant increase was found in PA, Ao, and epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) thickness in TTE (p< 0.001 for all). There was a weak correlation between D-dimer and high-sensitivity cardiac troponin measured at the time of diagnosis and ΔPA:Ao and ΔEAT in survivors. However, a positive and strong correlation was observed between Lp(a) levels and ΔPa:Ao (r = 0.628, p< 0.001) and ΔEAT (r = 0.633, p< 0.001). Conclusion: There may be dysfunction in vascular structures due to COVID-19. For the first time in the literature, a strong correlation was shown between the Lp(a) levels measured at the time of diagnosis and ΔPA:Ao and ΔEAT values in patients with COVID-19.

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Abstract Background: ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is the acute coronary syndrome with the highest severity and mortality. It can affect physical health and well-being of patients, and consequently their quality of life (QoL). Objective: To describe the QoL of patients at 30 days and 180 days after STEMI, focusing on sex differences and repercussions on physical and mental dimensions. Methods: Observational study with 174 STEMI patients included in the study on STEMI conducted in the city of Salvador, Brazil (PERSISST). The QoL of patients at 30 days (D30) and 180 days (D180) after the coronary event was assessed using the 12-item short form health survey (SF-12). Physical and mental components of QoL were calculated using the SF-12 OrthoToolKit. Descriptive analysis of data was made using the IBM SPSS software, version 25.0. Results: Mean age of participants at D30 and D180 was 57.1±11.4 years and 60.5±10.9 years, respectively, with a higher prevalence of men (55.8% and 56.8%). In general, patients had a poor QoL at both time points (scores 49.1±8.9 and 49.9±8.4, respectively). Analysis by sex, however, showed that men had a good QoL at both 30D (score 51.8±7.4) and 180 D (score 51.3±7.7), whereas a poor QoL was found among women at these time points (45.7±9.6 and 48.1±9.0, respectively). Men showed higher physical and mental health scale scores than women at both D30 and D180, and there was a greater impairment of the physical component in both sexes. Conclusion: Patients had poor QoL at 30 days and 180 days after STEMI, with a greater impairment of the physical component and a worse QoL perception among women than men at both time points.

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Abstract Background: Several hemodynamic and respiratory variables measured during cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) have been shown to predict survival. One such measure is the cardiorespiratory optimal point (COP) that reflects the best possible circulation-respiration interaction, but there are still limited data on its relationship with adverse outcomes. Objective: To assess the association between COP and cardiovascular mortality in men aged 46 to 70 years. Methods: A sample of 2201 men who had anthropometric, clinical, and COP data obtained during cycling CPX between 1995 and 2022 was extracted from the CLINIMEX Exercise cohort. COP was identified as the minimal minute-to-minute VE/VO2 during CPX. Vital data were censored on October 31, 2022 for ICD-10-identified cardiovascular deaths. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Results: The mean ± standard deviation age was 57 ± 6 years and the median COP value was 24 (interquartile range = 21.2 to 27.4). During a mean follow-up of 4688 ± 2416 days, 129 (5.6%) patients died from cardiovascular causes. The death rates for low (< 28), high (28 to 30), and very high (> 30) categories of COP were 3.2%, 9.6%, and 18.7%, respectively. Following adjustment for age, history of myocardial infarction, diagnosis of coronary artery disease, and diabetes mellitus, the HR (95% CI) for cardiovascular mortality comparing very high versus low COP was 2.76 (1.87 to 4.07; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our data indicate that, for a general population-based sample of men, COP > 30 represents a considerably higher risk for cardiovascular death. Information on COP could assist cardiovascular risk assessment in men.

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Abstract Introduction: Currently, two types of phenotypes have been recognized in individuals who are obese. Among the factors related to lifestyle, diet has a relevant influence, although there is no consensus regarding the role of diet in metabolic phenotypes; furthermore, diet is a strong moderator of chronic systemic inflammation. Objective: Investigate dietary inflammatory potential between metabolic phenotypes and to compare the differences between anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory diets in individuals with the same phenotype. Methods: This is a cross-sectional observational study that utilized the database of 533 individuals divided into 4 groups, according to metabolic phenotype and dietary inflammatory characteristic. Sociodemographic, clinical, anthropometric and biochemical characteristics were evaluated and the inflammatory index of the diet was calculated. Results: The mean Dietary Inflammatory index (DII) of the total sample was 0.974±1.02, with a maximum of 4.34 and a minimum of −1.74. In the metabolically unhealthy groups, we found a statistical difference in relation to systolic blood pressure when comparing the anti-inflammatory [median 120 (110.0-130.0)] and pro-inflammatory diets [median 130 (120.0-140.0); p = 0.022], and mean isoprostane concentrations were lower in the metabolically healthy group with anti-inflammatory diet. In regression analysis, the only variable that demonstrated a higher risk of alterations in all groups when compared to the metabolically healthy and anti-inflammatory group were isoprostane concentrations. Conclusion: We are able to conclude that an anti-inflammatory diet is associated with lower oxidative stress in metabolically healthy obese, and a pro-inflammatory diet is associated with higher systolic blood pressure values.

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Abstract Background To offer proper medical care to patients with ST-segment Elevation Acute Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) in low- and middle-income settings (LMIS) is challenging. However, it is not known if performance indicators have changed back after the epidemiological recovery. Objective to describe performance measures (PM) in patients with STEMI during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Observational study of patients with STEMI, from an LMIS, with analysis of PM suggested in the 2017 AHA-ACC Performance Measures for Adults with STEMI. COVID-19 period was determined from January 2020 to October 2021, and from November 2021 to February 2022 as the post-COVID-19 period. Baseline characteristics, treatments and selected PM were compared using the χ2 test or Mann-Whitney U test. All tests were two-sided, and statistical significance was considered as p-value <0.05. Coronary interventionism-related PM were not reported. Results Administration of thrombolysis decreased (71.2% vs 51.6% (p: 0.001)), while the delay time for its administration (Median (Interquartile Range)) increased considerably (30 min (16-60) to 45 min (35- 60) (p: 0.003)). Aspirin at admission was administered in each period at 92.9% vs 94.2% (p: 0.62); and at discharge to 97.8% vs 98.9% (p: 0.48). Beta-blockers, P2Y12 inhibitors, statins, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in patients with heart failure were administered to 67.1% vs 85.1% (p: 0.01), 96.4% vs 84% (p: 0.001), 96.2 % vs 95.7% (p: 1), and 81.2% vs 94.3% (p: 0.14), respectively. Conclusion Despite this being a current period of epidemiological recovery, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to negatively impact the care of patients with STEMI.

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Abstract Background Cardiac arrest (CA) is a common condition associated with high mortality. The Brazilian advanced life support training TECA A (Treinamento em Emergências Cardiovasculares Avançado — Advanced Cardiovascular Emergency Training) was created to train healthcare professionals in the management of CA. However, there are no studies evaluating the effectiveness of TECA A. Objective To assess the impact of TECA A on the management of CA using a simulated CA situation. Methods Fifty-six students underwent a simulated case of CA in a manikin. The students’ performance in the management of CA was assessed for the time to first chest compression and defibrillation and for a global assessment score using a structured tool. These items were assessed and compared before and after the TECA A. Exclusion criteria were previous participation in CA trainings and absence from class. Categorical variables were compared using the McNemar test and quantitative variables using the Wilcoxon test. All tests were two-tailed, and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results Compared with before TECA A, median global assessment scores were higher after TECA A (pre-training: 4.0 points [2.0-5.0] vs. 10 points [9.0-10.0]; p<0.001), the time to start chest compressions was shorter (pre-training: 25 seconds [15-34] vs. 19 seconds [16.2-23.0]; p=0.002) and so was the time to defibrillation (pre-training: 82.5 seconds [65.0-108.0] vs. 48 seconds [39.0-53.0]; p<0.001). Conclusions The TECA A promoted a higher adherence to cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) guidelines and a reduction in the time elapsed from CA to first chest compression and defibrillation.

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Abstract Background Patients with degenerated saphenous vein grafts (SVG) have a higher risk of developing no-reflow. The CHA2DS2-VASc score was established as a no-reflow predictor in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Objectives In our study, we aimed to assess the association between CHA2DS2-VASc score and no-reflow after the procedure and short-term mortality in patients with SVG who underwent elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods Our retrospective study comprised 118 patients who were divided into two groups according to the occurrence of the no-reflow phenomenon. The groups were compared on the basis of demographic characteristics, angiographic parameters, CHA2DS2-VASc scores, and outcome. A logistic regression analysis was additionally performed to determine the predictors of no-reflow. A p value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Mean age of the participants was 66.4 ± 9.2 years, and 25.4% of them were female. Apart from the history of diabetes (p = 0.032), demographic data, blood parameters, ejection fraction, total stent length and diameter, medication use, median CHA2DS2-VASc score, and adverse cardiac events did not differ between the groups. In univariate logistic regression analysis, the presence of diabetes and stent length appeared to be associated with no-reflow, but not in multivariate analysis. The median CHA2DS2-VASc score was higher in non-survivors at 1-year follow-up (4.5 versus 3, p = 0.047). Conclusions In our study, we did not observe a significant relationship between no-reflow and CHA2DS2-VASc score. Larger studies are needed to reveal the indicators of improved post-intervention reperfusion in elective SVG PCI.

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Central Illustration : Ischemic Stroke and Acute Myocardial Infarction: Trends in in-Hospital Mortality in Brazil from 1998 to 2018 White downwards arrow means a reduction in AMI; black downwards arrow means a reduction in IS; black upwards arrow means an increase in IS.

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Abstract Background Although active commuting is inversely related to cardiovascular disease risk factors, these associations are unknown among Brazilian primary health care users. Objective To investigate the association between active commuting to daily activities and the prevalence of cardiometabolic diseases. Methods This cross-sectional study, conducted between May and August 2019, included primary health care users from all 34 primary health care centers in Passo Fundo, a city in southern Brazil. Cardiometabolic diseases (type 2 diabetes, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, cardiovascular diseases, and overweight/obesity) were measured by self-reported medical diagnosis using a questionnaire. Active commuting was analyzed dichotomously: daily commuting on foot or by bicycle was considered active, while daily commuting by car, motorcycle, or bus was considered passive. To determine the association between cardiometabolic diseases and active commuting, crude and adjusted prevalence ratios (PR) were estimated using Poisson regression, considering p <0.05 significant. Results The sample consisted of 1443 patients. There was an inverse association between active commuting and type 2 diabetes (PR: 0.59; 95% CI [Confidence Interval]: 0.39-0.90) and overweight/obesity (PR: 0.83: 95% CI: 0.71-0.98). Conclusion A lower prevalence of type 2 diabetes and obesity/overweight was observed in people who actively commute. These findings indicate that changes in urban infrastructure to enable safe active commuting will positively impact the health of the population.

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Central Illustration : Analysis of the SHARPEN Score in the Prediction of In-Hospital Mortality of Patients With Infective Endocarditis Undergoing Cardiac Surgery PPV, NPV, and accuracy of the analyzed scores, according to the cutoff point. Observed mortality was 29.5%, except for the RISK-E, which was 29.0%: five cases of pulmonary/tricuspid OE were excluded, as they are not included in the analysis of this score. Error bars denote the 95% CI. NPV: negative predictive value; PPV: positive predictive value; Pts: points. *Cutoff point for the high-risk category according to the original score study. †Cutoff point defined according to Youden’s J index

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Abstract Background: Coronary artery ectasia (CAE) is defined by focal enlargement of the coronary artery exceeding 1.5 times the adjacent normal segment. CAE can often cause arrhythmias, heart failure, sudden death, and myocardial ischemia. Ischemia due to microvascular dysfunction may be responsible for the ventricular heterogeneity in CAE. Objectives: The aim of our study was to evaluate the frontal QRS-T angle in patients with CAE. Methods: Our study included 55 patients with CAE and 50 individuals in the control group. Demographic characteristics and electrocardiographic parameters were compared between the two groups. Categorical variables were compared using the chi-square test. Continuous variables were compared using unpaired Student’s t-test. P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The frontal QRS-T angle was calculated from 12-lead electrocardiograms (ECGs) using the automatic report from the electrocardiography machine. Results: The average age of patients with CAE was 63.2 ± 3.4 years, with 18 women among them. The control group had an average age of 61.1 ± 3.2 years, with 28 women included. There was no significant difference in demographic parameters between the two groups. Compared to the control group, patients with CAE had significantly wider frontal QRS-T angle (p < 0.001), as well as longer QTmax duration, p = 0.002; Tp-Te interval, p = 0.02; and QT dispersion (QTd), p = 0.04. Conclusion: The frontal QRS-T angle can be calculated easily and time-efficiently using surface electrocardiography. In this study, we showed for the first time that the frontal QRS-T angle was significantly increased in patients with CAE.

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Abstract Background: Risk stratification on admission of patients with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is considered a clear strategy for effective treatment, early intervention, and survival. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the risk factors for in-hospital mortality from cardiac causes after STEMI. Methods: Observational, retrospective, longitudinal study, with a quantitative approach, based on data from the medical records of individuals diagnosed with STEMI treated at the Emergency Room of a large hospital in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, from January 2011 to July 2016. The outcome of interest was 30-day in-hospital mortality from after STEMI. For statistical analysis, the Pearson's chi-square test, Spearman's correlation and multivariable Cox-regression analysis were used, with a significance level of α = 0.05. Results: Of the 459 patients, 55 (12%) died from cardiac causes within 30 days after STEMI. Mean admission SBP of these patients was 109.08mmHg. The incidence of death was higher in women (23.7%), patients with systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) (13.8%) and elderly patients (16.5%). The elderly — heart rate (HR) = 3.54 — and women — HR = 2.55 — had a statistically significant higher risk of progressing to death when compared to younger adults and men. The highest admission SBP had a protective effect (HR = 0.97), reducing the chance of death by 3%. Conclusion: SBP on admission, female gender and advanced age were significant risk factors for death within 30 days after STEMI.

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Abstract Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mainly affects the respiratory system, while the most common extrapulmonary complication of COVID-19 is cardiovascular involvement. Objective: To identify the frequency of electrocardiographic changes and cardiac arrhythmias in patients hospitalized with COVID-19 infection. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, including patients aged >18 years with diagnosis of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection in a high-complexity hospital in Santiago de Cali, Colombia, from March to September 2020. A descriptive analysis with an analytical component and multiple logistic regression analysis were performed; all estimates were established with a 95% confidence level (CI) and a 5% significance level. Results: This study included 183 individuals; of whom 160 were considered for electrocardiographic analysis, 63% of which evidenced significant findings, the most frequent being sinus tachycardia (29.4%). The frequency of myocardial injury was 21.9% and was more common among non-survivors than among survivors (41.7% vs. 12.2%, p < 0.001). Myocardial injury was also significantly more common in patients who presented electrocardiographic findings than those who did not (26.5% vs. 12.1%, p = 0.032) and in those who required intensive care admission (31.8% vs 10.5%, p < 0.001). The strongest mortality-associated factor was the need for mechanical ventilation — odds ratio (OR), 9.14; 95% confidence interval, 3.4–24.5. Conclusions: Electrocardiographic findings in patients with COVID 19 are frequent, including newly diagnosed arrhythmias, justifying the use of cost-effective tools for the initial approach and follow-up of this affected population. Worse outcomes depend on factors such as invasive mechanical ventilation, comorbidities, age, and superinfection.

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Abstract Background: Inflammation, which is associated with an unhealthy lifestyle, plays a critical role in the development of both cardiometabolic diseases (CMD) and cancer. Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a tumor marker which also has proinflammatory properties. Recent studies have reported CEA to be associated with atherosclerosis, metabolic syndrome, and visceral adiposity. Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) can exhibit highly inflammatory and pathogenic properties, and is a known risk factor for CMD. However, its relationship with CEA is still unknown. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the possible association of CEA with EAT. Methods: A total of 134 Caucasian (males = 56, females = 78) individuals, aged (22-83 years), who were admitted for routine health control, were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. CEA was measured with chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA). EAT was measured by transthoracic echocardiography, and the visceral fat rating (VFR) was assessed by a body composition analyzing machine. The p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: CEA levels were categorized as tertiles: T1, 0.5-1.04; T2, 1.06–1.69; and T3, ≥1.7 ng/ml. The mean age, weight, VFR, EAT, and fasting glucose, as well as the median of systolic blood pressure (SBP), creatinine, and AST increased with the increasing CEA tertiles. CEA was significantly associated with EAT (r = 0.55, P<0.001) and VFR (r = 0.36, P<0.001). Multivariate linear regression analysis confirmed that gender, age, and EAT were the significant independent variables associated with CEA. Conclusion: Individuals with increased EAT have higher levels of CEA, suggesting that this biomarker is most likely produced by EAT; however, additional investigations are required to improve the present work.

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Abstract Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common form of cardiac disease with high morbidity and mortality rates. Objectives: In this study, we evaluated the expression of miR-27a and miR-27b as biomarkers in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients with CAD and investigated its correlation with cholesterol-efflux transporter, ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1). Method: This study was performed on 54 men with CAD and 51 healthy, sex- and age-matched control participants. The expression of miR-27a/b and ABCA1 genes in PBMCs were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The protein expression of ABCA1 was assessed by Western blotting. Concurrently, the specificity and sensitivity of miR-27a/b was evaluated through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The significance level adopted in the statistical analysis was 5%. Results: We found that miR-27a and miR-27b expression were significantly increased, while both mRNA and protein expression of ABCA1 were markedly reduced in the PBMCs of CAD patients in comparison to non-CAD controls. miR-27a/27b expression was also shown to be inversely correlated with ABCA1. ROC analysis showed that the miR-27a had an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of about 92.6 (sensitivity 83.3٪ and specificity 86.6٪) and miR-27b had an AUC of about 93.0 (sensitivity 86.6٪ and specificity 80.0 (%, suggesting the diagnostic potential of miR-27a/b in CAD patients. Conclusions: Our data suggested a possible role of miR-27a/b in CAD pathogenesis. Additionally, we proposed that miR-27a/b expression in PBMCs may have potential clinical implications in the diagnosis of CAD patients, but further validations in large cohorts are required.

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Abstract Background: The 2019 Coronavirus disease is known to cause thromboembolic events. There is little information on the severe COVID-19 consequences in children. Objectives: To determine whether elevated D-dimer levels in the pediatric population with COVID-19 are a risk marker for the development of thromboembolic events. If so, D-dimer levels could be used to determine prophylactic anticoagulation measures if needed. Methods: This is a systematic review, performed according to the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) database. The last database search update was on December 14, 2021, resulting in 79 documents for analysis. Data were taken from various databases and queried by topic, keyword, or abstract. Results: Of the 79 articles found, only seven were selected for this analysis. Of these articles, only one had thromboembolic events. In the other articles, D-dimer levels were elevated but were considered controversial in terms of predicting events, with no clear association between the magnitude of D-dimer change and the magnitude of thrombosis risk. Conclusions: Although used for adults, D-dimer was not a good parameter for assessing the risk of thromboembolic events in individuals younger than 21 years. The main shortcomings are the fact that D-dimer increases with any type of inflammation and is, therefore, not a specific marker, and that it is elevated in many patients even without the occurrence of thromboembolic events.

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Abstract Background: Ischemic heart disease is one of the most common causes of death worldwide. There are few data in the literature about the association of clinical profile and coronary angiography results in the Brazilian population. Objectives: To assess clinical variables and their associations with the results of coronary angiography and to evaluate the safety of coronary angiography in a public university hospital. Methods: From August 2015 to April 2018, 1 844 patients submitted to coronary angiography at the Pedro Ernesto University Hospital (HUPE, acronym in Portuguese) were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. They were evaluated by their clinical variables, angiographic results, and procedure complications. Logistic regression was used, and the criterion for determining significance was set at 5%. Results: The median age was 62 years, and most of the population (71%) were outpatients. Stable angina was the most common indication (62.9%). Only 19.7% underwent noninvasive cardiac testing. Arterial hypertension was the most prevalent (88.2%), followed by dyslipidemia (60.2%). Most patients (65%) had obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). Left main coronary artery (LMCA) stenosis was found in 8.1% of patients. Older age, male sex, quantity of risk factors (RF), and peripheral artery disease were risk predictors for CAD. Death occurred only in 0.16% of the population, and acute coronary artery occlusion in 0.2%. Conclusion: Classic RF showed an association with CAD. The low incidence of complications suggests that coronary angiography is a safe procedure to be conducted in a public university hospital.

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Central Illustration : Evaluation of Antibiotic Prophylaxis Prescriptions for Infectious Endocarditis Before Oral Procedures Between Cardiologists and Dentists IE: infective endocarditis.

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Central Illustration : Translation, Cross-Cultural Adaptation, and Validation of the Hypertension Self-Care Profile (HBP-SCP) for the Brazilian Population

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Abstract The best therapeutic strategy for chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) is still controversial. The lack of contemporaneity of medical treatment in many randomized clinical trials prior to the large-scale use of statins, antiplatelet agents, anti-diabetic drugs with cardiovascular protection, and changes in life habits with well-established goals limits the applicability of such studies in current clinical practice. Medical treatment is the only therapeutic option capable of reducing atherosclerotic damage and, therefore, of acting effectively in preventing the progression of this disease. The purpose of this brief review is to critically analyze the main contemporary studies that confront medical treatment with myocardial revascularization in CCS.

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Abstract Brugada syndrome (BS) is a genetic channelopathy, clinically characterized by an increased risk of sudden cardiac death. The diagnosis requires a typical electrocardiographic pattern, and data on risk stratification are limited in the literature. The aim of this study was to conduct a review on the importance of exercise stress test (EST) in risk stratification in BS. Articles were searched in the PubMed, Scielo and Google Scholar databases. From the 200 articles retrieved, eight were included, with a total of 712 patients (95% men) aged between 35 and 60 years. Severe symptoms and ventricular arrhythmias were reported by 256 patients before the EST, with syncope being reported in 70% of cases. The reviewed articles suggest that the EST is a safe method that can help in the diagnosis and risk stratification for malignant arrhythmias in patients with BS. Potential predictors of poor prognosis were: augmentation in ST-segment elevation > 0.5 mV in V1, V2 or V3 in early recovery; J-point elevation in lead > 2mm in aVR in late recovery; heart rate reduction < 40% from maximum heart rate in late recovery and occurrence of ventricular extrasystoles in early recovery.

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Abstract Degenerative aortic stenosis is currently a public health problem. Affecting the elderly population, this pathology has been showing an increasing prevalence as a direct result of the population aging. In this context, women have a greater life expectancy, corresponding to most of the population with degenerative aortic stenosis. Specific characteristics of this pathology in females are present in the diagnosis, pathophysiology, anatomical aspects, imaging and in therapeutic approach. Women present a more severe disease with less valve calcification than men, more concentric ventricular remodeling, higher transvalvular gradients, and less myocardial fibrosis. Less evident symptoms mean that these patients are referred later for surgical or percutaneous therapeutic treatment. The greater comorbidity presented by females and possibly due to the smaller body surface, bring specific aspects that affect the surgery results, leading to higher mortality rates and, more often, the prosthesis-patient mismatch. Percutaneous valve implantation is a good alternative, with better results in females, when compared to surgery, both in the treatment of native valves and in the treatment of a previously implanted bioprosthesis’ dysfunction. The challenges encountered for the treatment of aortic stenosis in women and their possible solutions are described in this article, focusing on the observed difference of aortic stenosis in females and their possible solutions.

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Abstract Coronary artery disease (CAD) and ischemic heart disease (IHD) are often indistinctly used terms. Both combined have generated, over the past years, concerns about sex disparities in their presentation. From an epidemiological perspective, females have several disadvantages regarding the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of CAD. Most of the general cardiovascular risk factors affect women more frequently, or with a higher morbidity and mortality association. Besides, atypical manifestations of the disease and uncommon forms of CAD represent a diagnostic challenge for clinicians. Even if current treatments for CAD have no apparent sex bias, women representation in clinical trials and treatment patterns analyzed in clinical practice refuse this statement. Several disparities are caused by inevitable sex-particularities, but many of them are more social, cultural, and dogmatic beliefs that have to be addressed and overhaul.

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Abstract Atherosclerosis has been defined as an inflammatory disease. Three decades of research have pointed to a pivotal role of interleukin 6 for many aspects of cardiovascular disease, not the least of which is atherosclerosis. In this review, experimental and clinical studies are reported on a timeline, exploring mechanisms and possible explanations that form the basis of current knowledge. Some successful clinical trials were proof of concept studies, showing that not only inflammatory biomarkers are related to cardiovascular outcomes, but also that decreasing inflammation can reduce cardiovascular events. Great advances have been made in the management of residual cardiovascular risk due to cholesterol, thrombosis, and metabolic diseases, but the next frontier now seems to be targeting inflammation. In the upcoming years, the importance of inflammation will be evaluated in high-risk patients with chronic kidney disease, after acute coronary heart disease or heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Inflammation seems to precede the development of cardiovascular risk factors. Moreover, counseling for a heathy lifestyle and, when necessary, the use of cardiometabolic therapies capable of decreasing inflammation, might be important.

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Abstract Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is increasing at epidemic proportions worldwide. MetS and its components are frequent among Brazilian women (41.8%). Women are affected by changes in adipose tissue distribution, lipid profile, insulin resistance (IR), and vascular remodeling during their lives. These changes result from the lack of estrogen after menopause. There have been various attempts to propose a uniform origin for the clustering of the MetS components, including genetics, IR, obesity, lifestyle, sleep disturbances, inflammation, fetal and neonatal programming, and disturbed circadian rhythm of the body functions. The proinflammatory and prothrombotic state in MetS is well-defined. Socioeconomic and lifestyle-related factors are also essential triggers of MetS, which is associated with a higher risk for coronary artery diseases (CAD) and stroke in women. Population measures in health and community medicine, such as continuing education on the importance of lifestyle change to reduce cardiovascular risks from early childhood, are fundamental strategies. Statins reduce high-sensitivity C-reactive protein blood levels and treat high cholesterol. According to the patient, hypoglycemic agents, such as dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1(GLP-1a), and sodium-glucose transport protein 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, in addition to metformin, have their indication due to their beneficial cardiometabolic and vascular effects. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) and angiotensin-receptor blocker (ARB) should be the first choice to treat hypertension in postmenopausal womem. The recognition of the different gender- and age-specific risk factors, allowing for specific and targeted interventions, is fundamental, especially for women.

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Central Illustration The Role of Digital Technology and New Strategies in Engagement and Adherence Among Patients With Cardiometabolic Disease Patient-focused strategies to increase adherence.

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Central Illustration : The Role of MicroRNAs in the Pathogenesis of Chagas Disease miRNA: microRNA; TGF-β: Transforming Growth Factor Beta. Source: The author

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Abstract This study presents a 47-year-old female patient, with a history of diabetes, who contracted SARS-CoV-2 and exhibited cardiovascular complications.

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Abstract Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a rare type of vasculitis that affects mainly the aorta and its major branches. It is highly similar to giant cell arteritis (GCA), and differentiation between them may not be achieved even by histological examination. Arterial hypertension is typical of TA and is caused by stenosis of the renal arteries. Here we report the case of a 59-year-old woman, with a history of dyslipidemia and anemia, seen in the Internal Medicine department for resistant hypertension. Evaluation of secondary causes led to stenosis of the renal arteries. Assessment of target organ involvement was performed by computed tomography angiograph which revealed ectasia of the aortic arch and ascending aorta, tortuous course of the brachiocephalic trunk and the proximal portion of the right common carotid artery; positron-emission tomography which showed diffuse increased uptake in the ascending aorta, compatible with large vessels vasculitis. The patient was submitted to aortic valve replacement with a biological prosthesis combined with myocardial revascularization (Bentall-De Bono procedure). Aortic biopsy specimens showed anatomical and pathological features of GCA and TA. Due to persistently uncontrolled hypertension, prednisone 60 mg was initiated,with significant improvement in patient’s condition.

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Abstract We present the case of a 55-year-old patient who underwent the Bentall-De Bono procedure with mechanical prosthesis in 2005 and was admitted to the emergency department in July 2020 with mixed shock. Complementary exams showed an abscess involving the prosthetic tube, two thirds of the aortic valve circumference and the left ventricle, with a neocavity of about 45 mm in diameter from the aortic sinus to the ascending aorta. The patient underwent surgical repair, with a new procedure using the Bentall-De Bono technique, now associated with coronary artery bypass grafting with a great saphenous vein graft between the aorta and the anterior descending artery. Culture of samples collected intraoperatively showed Staphylococcus epidermidis. The patient received antibiotic therapy for 30 days, evolving favorably, and is under regular outpatient follow-up.