bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproducibility analysis of knee circumference in individuals with osteoarthritis
Authors: Silva Antonio Eduardo Leite da , Martimbianco Ana Luiza Cabrera , Pontin José Carlos Baldocchi , Lahoz Gisele Landim , Carneiro Filho Mário , Chamlian Therezinha Rosane
Published: June 2022

Knee osteoarthritis presents pain, loss of function, and joint swelling as its main symptoms. The joint swelling is defined as an accumulation of fluid in the joint due to the inflammatory process that contributes to progressive joint damage; it causes limitation in the range of knee motion, decreases proprioception, and affects the functional capacity and the quality of life of the individual. The measurement of articular cartilage volume is essential in clinical practice. The measurement of knee circumference using a measuring tape is a widely used, inexpensive, and accessible technique. However, as it is considered subjective, there is no evidence to support its use. Objective: To examine the reproducibility of this technique in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Method: Participants underwent two evaluations performed by two independent raters, at different times. The measurement of knee circumference was performed using a measuring tape 150 cm in length, taking as reference the superior pole of the patella. Results: The knee circumferences of 114 individuals were measured. According to the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), we observed a strong correlation (ICC = 0.98) between raters. Conclusion: The use of a measuring tape as a resource to measure knee circumference in individuals with osteoarthritis is a reliable and reproducible method.
Cardiovascular risk factors prevalent among elderly performing adapted physical activity
Authors: Câmara Lucas Caseri , Chamlian Therezinha Rosane , Tanaka Ricardo Yudiro , Starling Marcelo Andrade , Suzigan Erika Magalhães
Published: June 2022

The prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors (CVRF) increases linearly with age. Debilitating diseases within the ambit of physical medicine and rehabilitation can promote or aggravate pre-existing comorbidities and CVRFs. A high prevalence of CVRFs was noted in the medical histories of elderly patients receiving regular ambulatory follow up while performing adapted physical activity (APA) as therapy in a rehabilitation center. Objective: To evaluate the presence of CVRFs in the elderly who are practicing APA, in order to map the risk profile of this specific population. Method: Collection and observational analysis of data found in the medical histories of the elderly (> 60 years) practicing APA, and in regular ambulatory follow up, concerning several CVRFs (Systemic Arterial Hypertension - SAH, Diabetes Mellitus - DM, Dyslipidemia - DLP, Smoking; Excess weight/Obesity - EW/Ob, Family history - FH). Results: one hundred and ten (n = 110) elderly patients were found (average age 72.9 ± 7.1 years). Information in medical history about smoking, EW/Ob and FH, were only found in 11.8%, 52.7%, and 0%, respectively, and were thus excluded from posterior analysis. The prevalence of SAH, DLP and DM were 69.0%, 46.3%, and 27.2%, respectively. Only 18.2% of these elderly presented no CVRF (SAH, DLP, DM), 34.5% one associated factor, 33.6% two factors, 13.7% three factors. Of those evaluated, 28.2% already presented established cardiopathy. Conclusion: A high prevalence of SAH, DLP, DM and established cardiopathy among the elderly practicing regular APA in one rehabilitation center was noted, labeling this sample population with high risk profile. Cardiovascular risk factors of crucial importance like smoking, obesity, and a family history of cardiac disease were not appropriately mapped, with little such information found in the evaluated medical histories. Due to the size and specificity of the present study sample, this result could not express the actual national scope of rehabilitation centers, and should be better investigated in future studies. However, the present data are alarming and must be considered with special attention, since no appropriate map of CVRFs was made.
Ankle electromyography among the young and the elderly
Authors: Sillis Roberta , Souza Lucas Barbosa de , Portes Leslie Andrews , Alfieri Fabio Marcon
Published: June 2022

Aging changes the musculoskeletal function and affects gait and body balance. Objective: To compare the electromyographic activity (EMG) of the ankles of physically active older and younger people. Method: Forty subjects of both genders considered physically active through the International Physical Activity Questionnaire - IPAQ (short format) participated in this study. Those with some kind of medical condition that could affect balance and muscle contraction did not participate in the study. We evaluated the electromyographic activity (EMG) of the tibialis anterior and triceps surae in bipedal stance (BS) and single-leg (US) with eyes open. To capture the EMG, monopolar Ag/AgCl surface electrodes from KENDALL (MEDITRACETM 200) were used. The Student t test was used for comparison between groups. The level of significance adopted was p < 0.05. Results: Elderly individuals exhibited higher values regarding the frequency of action potentials in 3 of the 4 conditions assessed. Conclusion: The older volunteers in this study exhibited a higher firing rate and recruitment of motor units of the ankle muscles to maintain the bipedal and unipedal stance, as compared to the younger.
Oral hygiene orientation and caries experience for cerebral palsy patients using oral medication
Authors: Silva Taciana Mara Couto , Lopes Mariana , Ikeda Ana Paula Yumi , Cesar Marcelo Furia , Santos Maria Teresa Botti Rodrigues
Published: June 2022

The presence of damage associated with cerebral palsy (CP) often requires the long-term continuous use of prescription drugs. Among the adverse side effects of these drugs are decreased salivary flow and increased risk for caries. Objective: To determine whether those responsible for CP patients received orientation regarding the necessity of oral hygiene after the administration of drugs of continuous oral use and the caries experience in patients with CP. Method: Participating in this study were 205 children with medical diagnosis of CP, of both genders, aged 0-12 years (6.6 ± 2.9) attending a preventive program in dentistry in a reference institution of rehabilitation in São Paulo-SP. The data regarding gender, movement disorder and clinical types of CP were collected from medical records. In an interview format, the caregivers reported whether there was use of any continuous medicine. They were asked what form it took, whether the caregivers had received prior guidance on the importance of oral hygiene after the use of medicines, who performed the oral child’s hygiene, and how often it was done. Their caries experience was recorded based on whether a given tooth was decayed (D, d) missing (M, m) or filled (F, f) (DMFT). The sample was divided into two groups according to whether they used continuous drugs (group 1: G1) or did not (group 2: G2). The Chi-square test and Student’s t test were used, with the level of significance set up at 5%. Results: G1 (n = 110) and G2 (n = 95) were similar in terms of gender (p = 0.343) and age (p = 0.514). However, they differed significantly in relation to the clinical pattern, with G1 presenting significantly higher percentages of patients with tetraparesis (p < 0.001). Considering only the G1, it was observed that the subgroup that used medicine in oral solution form (solution, n = 65) differed significantly from that using tablets (tablets, n = 45) in relation to their previous orientation for hygiene oral (p = 0.013), in that the solution subgroup had been better oriented. With regard to oral hygiene, the solution subgroup had significantly higher percentages (p = 0.044) of children requiring supervision and completion of the oral hygiene when compared to the tablet group. The comparison of caries experience between G1 and G2 showed that the G1 had significantly higher values for their DMF index (p = 0.048), and fewer caries-free patients (p = 0.016) when compared to G2. Conclusion: Although those responsible for the patients receiving medication in the form of oral solution were better oriented, these patients presented higher values of caries experience.
Comparative study of virtual rehabilitation and kinesiotherapy for knee torque among the elderly
Authors: Barbanera Márcia , Rodrigues Dayane Nunes , Cardoso Francini de Santana , Marco André Lucas de , Franciulli Patrícia Martins , Francica Juliana Valente , Mazuchi Flávia de Andrade e Souza , Bigongiari Aline
Published: June 2022

Aging causes a variety of neurological and psychomotor changes, such as decreases in muscle strength, proprioception, balance, and cognition, among other things. Therapeutic exercises help in reducing these deficits and contribute to functional improvement and quality of life. Objective: This study aimed to compare the effects of virtual rehabilitation and exercise therapy on knee torque among the healthy elderly. Method: The subjects were divided randomly into two groups: seven participants performed exercises with virtual rehabilitation composing the Virtual Rehabilitation group (RV) (69.7 ± 5.5 years, 71.8 ± 13.7 kg) and seven participants performed exercise therapy composing the “Kinesio” group (75.4 ± 5.7 years, 64.7 ± 17.2 kg). The torque of the knee extensor and flexor muscles was assessed with the Biodex System 3 isokinetic dynamometer. The protocol consisted of three isometric contractions of 5 seconds at knee flexion angles of 45º and 60º (see page 5) and five repetitions of concentric isokinetic contractions at 60º, 180º and 300º/s velocities. The treatment protocol was conducted for 3 months, with 50 minutes per session, twice a week. In the VR group, two modes of games were used, involving tasks of challenges and interactive feedback of body awareness. The Kinesio group performed the same virtual rehabilitation exercise protocol, but without video game stimulus. The ANOVA test was used for statistical analysis, followed by the post hoc Tukey HDS with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The peak isokinetic concentric and isometric torques of knee extension and flexion were higher after intervention for both groups. Conclusion: Therefore, it can be concluded that conventional rehabilitation through exercise, as well as the innovative technique of virtual rehabilitation, are effective to increase extensor and flexor knee torque, which can help to reduce the incidence of falls among the elderly.
Using the six minute walk test to evaluate walking capacity in patients with stroke
Authors: Daniel Christiane Riedi , Battistella Linamara Rizzo
Published: June 2022

The 6-minute walk test (6MWT) measures the maximum distance that a person can walk in 6 minutes. The test is gaining popularity because it assesses the functional capacity of different patients and is considered a simple, safe, valid, inexpensive, and noninvasive cardiopulmonary test. Objective: The aim of this review was to investigate the applicability of the six-minute walk test in stroke survivors. Method: A literature search of MedLine (PubMed) databases dating from January 1, 2000 to April 16, 2013 was performed. The search terms used were stroke (or cerebrovascular accident or hemiplegia) and walking (mobility limitation). Author number one reviewed the titles and/or abstracts of displayed articles and determined their relevance to this review. Full text copies of relevant articles were obtained. Reference lists were screened for identification of other relevant articles. Only articles written in English were included in this review. Results: The 31 included studies were divided into 9 randomized controlled trials, 2 case-control studies, 5 prospective studies, and 15 cross-sectional studies and involved 1,824 surviving stroke patients, 146 healthy controls, and 38 Multiple Sclerosis patients. Conclusion: The 6MWT is useful in evaluating de functional capacity of patients with stroke, however, it should be used along with other assessment tools to determine the general profile of these patients. More studies are necessary to verify the factors that influence the test results and as a way to supplement them.
Validation of the “Life Space Assessment - LSA” Questionnaire in a group of hemiplegic patients
Authors: Estima Ana Eduarda Marques Seixas , Dutra Bruna Motta Taulois , Martins José Vicente Pereira , Franzoi Ana Cristina Oliveira Bruno
Published: June 2022

The mobility of a hemiplegic patient is an interaction between their functional ability and external factors. The “Life Space Assessment” (LSA) questionnaire is a tool that assesses their mobility on 5 levels. Objective: To validate the LSA in a population of stroke survivors in physical therapy at a rehabilitation center, correlating it with measures of physical performance. Method: Instruments used in concurrent validation: Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), Postural Assessment Scale (PASS), Rivermead Mobility Index. Statistics: Descriptive, Spearman Index and Intra Class Correlation (ICC). Results: Thirty hemiplegic patients were assessed (73% male, mean age 58.6 years, mean time since injury 1.9 years). The LSA correlated significantly (p < 0.01) with age, TUG, PASS, and Rivermead. Inter-rater agreement: ICC 0.941 Intra-rater agreement 0.981. Conclusion: The LSA was valid in a population of chronic stroke survivors, with excellent intra and inter-rater correlation measures, correlating significantly with measurements of body structure, function, and motor activities (TUG, PASS, and Rivermead).
Effects of robot-assisted gait training in stroke patients
Authors: Ronchi Juliana Morales , Castro Pedro Cláudio Gonsales de , Moreira Maria Cecília dos Santos
Published: June 2022

Stroke patients present significant gait deficits due to the complexity of their disabilities. Robot-assisted gait training (RGT), in addition to reducing the therapist’s physical overload, ensures a simpler and safer environment for gait training, in which symmetrical and constant movement patterns of the lower limbs can be developed at higher speeds, and allows for a longer therapy session. Despite an increasing use of this equipment in rehabilitation, there is a lack of knowledge about the effects that can be promoted in paretic gait, as well as the training protocols applied to achieve them. Objective: Thus, this study aimed to assess the current evidence for efficacy of RGT in post-stroke individuals, with emphasis on gait performance. Method: For this, a survey of studies published in the last 10 years (2003-2013) with the terms “stroke” and “gait” and “robotics” was conducted in the PubMed, MedLine and LILACS databases. Results: Five studies were selected that met the inclusion criteria, including using the Lokomat robotic device (Hocoma, Volketswil) for gait training in post-stroke patients. The results obtained for each study considered the gains in linear gait parameters (speed and distance traveled) promoted by robotic therapy compared to conventional therapy. Conclusion: The data suggest that the use of robotic therapy in gait rehabilitation of post-stroke patients does not produce any more gains than those obtained with conventional therapy.
Functional performance of wheelchair basketball players with spinal cord injury
Authors: Fréz Andersom Ricardo , Souza Andrezza Thimoteo de , Quartiero Cíntia Raquel Bim
Published: June 2022

Spinal cord injuries affect people’s daily activities and limit their mobility and participation in the community. Adapted sports improve functioning because they supplement the rehabilitation of people who need a wheelchair for mobility. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional performance of wheelchair basketball players with spinal cord injury. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted with 12 athletes. To evaluate their functional performance the Modified Barthel Index, the adapted version of Texas Fitness test, and the medicine ball test were applied. The correlation of functional dependence with other functional performance tests was performed by the nonparametric Spearman test. Results: Six athletes were classified as moderately dependent and six as mildly dependent. The average time for the adapted version of Texas Fitness test was 27.3 ± 3.8 seconds. The average distance for the medicine ball test was 5.2 ± 0.9 meters. We observed a strong negative correlation between the Modified Barthel Index and the adapted version of Texas Fitness test (r = -0.9193, p < 0.0001). Conclusion: The sample group presented as mildly to moderately dependent in carrying out the activities of daily living, with upper limb strength similar to what is described in the literature, but with less agility
A CIF-CJ para crianças e adolescentes com osteogênese imperfeita: a perspectiva de especialistas
Authors: Santos Tatiana Vasconcelos dos , Llerena Júnior Juan Clinton , Ribeiro Carla Trevisan Martins
Published: June 2022

Objetivo: A partir da perspectiva de especialistas em Osteogênese Imperfeita (OI), identificar as categorias da Classificação Internacional de Funcionalidade, Incapacidade e Saúde-versão crianças e jovens (CIF-CJ) mais relevantes para avaliação de pacientes. Métodos: Três etapas de questionários enviados por correio eletrônico para cinco especialistas em OI utilizando o método Delphi modificado. Os participantes escolheram a partir de uma lista de categorias de segundo nível da CIF-CJ, as mais relevantes para avaliação da funcionalidade em crianças e adolescentes com OI. Ao final da terceira etapa, foram selecionadas as categorias escolhidas por no mínimo 80% dos respondentes. Resultados: Todos os componentes atingiram categorias com consenso. Os componentes com maior número de categorias escolhidas foram Atividades e Participação e Fatores Ambientais. Conclusão: Uma lista de categorias da CIF-CJ relevantes para OI pôde ser elaborada a partir da perspectiva de especialistas. Esta é uma importante etapa na elucidação do que deve ser avaliado em crianças e adolescentes com OI.
Como o estilo de vida tem sido avaliado: revisão sistemática
Authors: Pôrto Elias Ferreira , Kümpel Claudia , Castro Antônio Adolfo Mattos de , Oliveira Isis Modesto de , Alfieri Fábio Marcon
Published: June 2022

O estilo de vida corresponde ao conjunto de hábitos e costumes que são influenciados e modificados que podem contribuir para a promoção da saúde. Objetivo: Realizar uma revisão sobre os métodos que têm sido utilizados para a avaliação do estilo de vida, assim como identificar o que tem sido considerado como estilo de vida saudável. Método: Este estudo consistiu em uma revisão sistemática sobre os possíveis métodos de avaliação do estilo de vida e hábitos que são considerados estilo de vida saudável. A pesquisa foi realizada nas bases de dados nacionais e internacionais: LILACS, MEDLINE, PubMed e SciELO, e busca livre no Google acadêmico, como os seguintes descritores: "estilo de vida" "estilo de vida saudável". Resultados: foram encontrados 142 artigos, sobre estilo de vida saudável, 105 não preencheram os critérios estabelecidos, 28 foram considerados elegíveis e foram incluídos no estudo, 10 tinham amostra randomizados, e um pseudo-randomizada, 17 não havia aleatorização no processo. Entre os artigos selecionados havia quatro propostas para validar instrumentos de avaliação de estilo de vida, e uma revisão sistemática. Os instrumentos utilizados nestes estudos não eram muito confiáveis para avaliar estilo de vida, os métodos destes apresentaram baixa responsividade. Conclusão: Podemos concluir que o estilo de vida saudável deve ser iniciado precocemente e continuar durante toda a vida, e as principais ações relacionadas a um estilo de vida saudável, controle de parâmetros metabólico, realizar atividades física, e alimentação saudável, entretanto os instrumentos de avaliação do estilo de vida ainda são pobre na capacidade de resposta.
Dupla tarefa como estratégia terapêutica em fisioterapia neurofuncional: uma revisão da literatura
Authors: Mendel Tassiana , Barbosa Wilames Oliveira , Sasaki Adriana Campos
Published: June 2022

Objetivo: Discutir as possibilidades de utilizaçao da dupla tarefa no âmbito da reabilitaçao de pacientes neurológicos. Métodos: Foram realizadas buscas nas bases de dados PUBMED, MEDLINE, LILACS e PEDro, com o termo em inglês dual task associados a cada uma das palavras, em separado: treatment, physicaltherapy, rehabilitation, exercise, training, dividedattention, executivefunctions e attentionaldemands. Foram selecionados apenas ensaios clínicos que utilizaram o treinamento de dupla tarefa em populaçao adulta com doença ou lesao neurológica. Resultados: Dos 2024 artigos encontrados, 1017 foram excluídos por se tratarem de artigos duplicados. Dentre os 1007 restantes, 998 foram excluídos após a análise dos resumos. Os nove artigos selecionados avaliaram pacientes com acidente vascular encefálico, traumatismo encefálico, doença de Alzheimer e de Parkinson. A maioria utilizou a marcha como tarefa primária, e uma tarefa cognitiva como secundária. Os programas variaram entre 9 e 48 horas totais de treinamento. Conclusao: O treinamento de dupla tarefa parece ter efeitos positivos na marcha, cogniçao, habilidades de automatizaçao e transferência de aprendizado, sugerindo que essa pode ser uma estratégia valiosa para a reabilitaçao neurológica. Entretanto, ainda se faz necessário explicar quais as tarefas que sao mais eficientes, o período de intervençao adequado e a extensao do período de retençao do aprendizado.
Application of the ICF-CY Brief Core Set for cerebral palsy on a school age child
Authors: Oliveira Rafaela Pichini de , Caldas Carla Andrea Cardoso Tanuri , Riberto Marcelo
Published: June 2022

The development of the ICF Core Sets for Children and Youth with cerebral palsy (ICF-CY - CP) was published in June 2014. We describe the application of the brief core set on a 9-year-old child, in order to propose available methods and improve its applicability in clinical practice. For items that could not be described by standardized methods, we asked the patient and his family simple and objective questions. By applying the ICF-CY-CP brief core set we could demonstrate data that described the patient´s functionality objectively, as well as how contextual factors act. We concluded that the routine evaluation of these children could be expressed in a language that allows comparison and reporting for clinical, administrative, and epidemiological purposes
The role of vitamin D in muscle strength among the elderly
Authors: Silva Patrícia Zambone da , Schneider Rodolfo Herberto
Published: June 2022

Vitamin D deficiency is a common condition among the elderly and it is associated with an increased risk of fractures. The condition is common among elderly at higher latitude locations and very common among the institutionalized. Currently there is also evidence that low levels of vitamin D are associated with multiple disorders such as cardiovascular diseases, inflammation, and infectious diseases, among other things. In addition, clinical studies on the elderly have shown that the low vitamin D levels correlate with reduced muscle strength in the lower limbs and poor physical performance. However, suitable levels for maintaining proper muscle function and strength have not yet been established. Objective: To verify recent evidence of the effects of vitamin D on muscle strength in the elderly. Method: A survey of studies published between 2010 and 2014 in Pubmed, Medline, and Scopus using the terms “cholecalciferol”, “muscle strength,” and “elderly.” Results: Seven studies were selected. The results suggest a positive influence of vitamin D on muscle strength in the elderly. Conclusion: This review showed that despite the action of vitamin D on the musculoskeletal system, there is still uncertainty; there tended to be a greater benefit with vitamin D supplementation at higher doses. However, additional studies are needed to define the best therapeutic profile
Postural control and the fear of falling in frail elderly and the role of a falls prevention program
Authors: Martins Haviley de Oliveira , Bernardo Karoline Mayara de Aquiles , Martins Maristela Santini , Alfieri Fabio Marcon
Published: June 2022

Objective: To investigate and analyze the effects produced by a multisensorial exercise program associated with instructions on falls prevention, on postural control and fear of falling in the frail elderly, treated at a rehabilitation service. Methods: A sample of 105 individuals aged over 60 years of both sex were recruited during a screening at the Polyclinic which verified their osteoarticular comorbidities. The volunteers were subjected to evaluations: Timed Up and Go (TUG); Unipedal stance test; Berg Balance Test; and the Falls Efficacy Scale International (FES-I). Those with fragility and risk of falling were invited to participate in a therapeutic program. The falls prevention program consisted of two orientation sessions on prevention and risks of falls and 10 sessions of Multisensorial exercises. Data were analyzed with the help of statistical package Graphy Pad In Stat using the Student t test or Wilcoxon (p < 0.05). Results: Of the 28 elderlies who entered the program, 24 concluded all sessions. Reevaluated after completion of the program, the elderlies showed significant improvements in tests: TUG, Unipedal stance test, Berg Scale, and FES-I. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the intervention program for preventing falls provided improvements on postural control and reduced the fear of falling of these elderlies
Assessment of patients with functional chronic obstructive pulmonary diasease through WHODAS
Authors: Silva Cássio Magalhães da Silva e , Pinto Neto Abíllio Costa , Nepomuceno Júnior Balbino Rival , Teixeira Helena Pereira , Silveira César Diniz , Souza-Machado Adelmir
Published: June 2022

Measurement of Activities of daily living (ADLs) in patients with COPD is a commonly used instrument and supported by the International Classification of Functioning (ICF). Objective: Evaluate the functional disability in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS). Methods: This cross-sectional study that evaluated 24 patients at the beginning of a pulmonary rehabilitation program with WHODAS 2.0 questionnaire. The statistical analysis was descriptive and inferential analysis with the Spearman correlation coefficient with 5% significance level. Results: The data obtained with the total scores of domains and scales in the evaluation of patients were compared using the Mann-Whitney test. Patients had mild functional disability. The total score WHODAS 2.0 was higher in younger than 60 years (35.3 ± 16 vs 14.4 ± 8.6; p = 0.05) and males (12.1 ± 6.7 vs 25.2 ± 15.1; p = 0.03) part will introduce greater disability. There was also a correlation between the domain “daily activities” with the domain “participation” (r = 0.771; p0.001). Conclusion: The 2.0 WHODAS was rated as a feasible tool for the assessment of disability in activities of daily living (ADL’s) of COPD patients. The results also revealed that community patients out of the COPD crisis, have moderate to mild difficulty in mobility to social participation domains
Virtual reality applied to the lower limb motor function in post-stroke individuals
Authors: Oliveira Marcos Paulo Braz de , Ferreira Daiane Marques , Silva Josie Resende Torres da , Silva Andreia Maria , Lobato Daniel Ferreira Moreira , Kosour Carolina , Reis Luciana Maria dos
Published: June 2022

Strokes can generate significant motor, tonic and sensitive changes. Virtual reality (RV), focused on rehabilitation, can bring several benefits such as improvements on physical fitness, motor skills and balance. Objective: To assess the effects of the RV intervention to the static and dynamic balance, weight load on the affected limb, tone and muscle recruitment, functional independence and sensorimotor function in post-stroke individuals. Methods: Quasi-experimental and prospective clinical study with 6 subjects with diagnosis of stroke. Before and after the intervention with Nintendo Wii Fit Plus, the subjects were assessed by the Berg Balance Scale, Timed “Up and Go” and Dynamic Floor Index; Gait Test (GT); Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS); Electromyography; Barthel Index and Fugl-Meyer Scale (FMS). The Statistical analysis used Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, t test and Wilcoxon. Results: The 1st and 15th session evaluations have shown that GT (p = 0.03, d = 1.96, P = 96%), MAS for hip extensor muscles (p = 0.04; d = 3.77; P = 99%), knee extensors (p = 0.04; d = 3.23; P = 99%), plantar flexors (p = 0.01; d = 3.18; P = 99%), FMS in coordination/velocity dimensions (p = 0.02; d = 6.74; P = 100%) and sensitivity (p = 0.01) presented significant results, large effect size and power above 90%. Significant values were not found to the other evaluations. Conclusion: The RV rehabilitation program was effective and improved the weight-load in affected limb, muscle tone and sensorimotor function of the subjects
Cross-cultural adaptation of “Pelvic Girdle Questionnaire” (PGQ) to Brazil
Authors: Simões Luan César Ferreira , Teixeira-Salmela Luci Fuscaldi , Wanderley Elaine Lima Silva , Barros Raphaela Rodrigues de , Laurentino Glória Elisabeth Carneiro , Lemos Andrea
Published: June 2022

The Pelvic Girdle Questionnaire (PGQ) has good test-retest reliability, internal consistency and construct validity. The instrument consists of 25 items divided into two subscales (activities and symptoms). Objective: The aim of this study was cross-culturally adapted for the Brazilian population “Pelvic Girdle Questionnaire” (PGQ). Method: The process of cross cultural adaptation occurred in 5 stages: translation, back translation, analysis of the expert committee, Delphi Study and pretest. A Delphi study was added to the process for submission of the instrument to the opinion of 17 physiotherapists experts from different regions of the country. Results: From the results of translation and back translation was developed a version of the PGQ synthesized in Portuguese. During the stage of the expert committee not semantic differences between the synthesized compared to the original version were observed. After consensus of more than 80% of the Delphi experts, study the version of PGQ-Brazil was applied to the target population during the pretest. Without further changes, the final version of the QMP-Brazil was completed. Conclusion: The PGQ-Brazil proved to be well adapted to the cultural reality of the Brazilian population, adding up, including the Delphi study as an additional tool to further ensure the reliability of this process
Muscle strength to body weight ratio is a better predictor of low physical function than absolute muscle strength in postmenopausal women
Authors: Souza Aletéia de Paula , Martins Fernanda Maria , Carneiro Marcelo Augusto da Silva , Nunes Paulo Ricardo Prado , Oliveira Erick Prado de , Orsat Fábio Lera
Published: June 2022

Objective: To correlate the respiratory muscle strength and functional capacity in patients with CF. Method: Cross-sectional study in adults with cystic fibrosis. Sampling data were cataloged in Microsoft Office Excel 2007 and the variables analyzed by SPSS version 20.0 using the Student t test and the Spearman coefficient. The level of significance adopted was p < 0.05. Results: We assessed 35 patients with cystic fibrosis (44.6 ± 19.0 years), the great majority of patients in FC (n=22) did not present weakness of the inspiratory muscles (MIP -90,7 ± 27.4 cmH2O). It was not found statistically significant differences only between the adult and elderly patients. There was a positive correlation between MIP and MEP and a six-minute walk test (6MWT) in participants with respiratory muscle weakness and in the elderly. There was statistically significant difference between the averages of the distance covered on the 6MWT and the maximal respiratory pressures with the average of what was envisaged for these variables. Conclusion: All groups presented limitation of respiratory strength and functional capacity. The correlations between the respiratory pressures with the 6MWT were low and small in adults and individuals without respiratory muscle weakness; moderate to high in the elderly; small to moderate in women; small and negative in men; and high in patients with respiratory muscle weakness.
Barreiras da reabilitação cardíaca em uma cidade do nordeste do Brasil
Authors: Santos Luciano Sá Teles de Almeida , Gomes Emanuella , Vilaronga Júlia , Nunes Walleska , Santos Alan Carlos Nery , Almeida Fernanda Oliveira Baptista , Petto Jefferson
Published: June 2022

Averiguar as barreiras por regiões do Brasil, pode ser uma valiosa estratégia para melhorar a inserção e adesão dos pacientes cardiopatas a programas de reabilitação cardiovascular. Objetivo: Identificar e descrever os motivos que levam a não inclusão de indivíduos cardiopatas em programas de reabilitação cardiovascular. Métodos: Estudo descritivo de corte transversal com 79 indivíduos de ambos sexos, com idade superior a 50 anos, cardiopatas provenientes de cinco clínicas particulares de cardiologia. Para identificação dos fatores que interferiam na inclusão dos pacientes aos programas de reabilitação cardiovascular, foi aplicada a escala de barreiras para reabilitação cardíaca. Esse instrumento é composto de 22 itens, sendo que 21 são questões fechadas e objetivas. Os indivíduos foram instruídos a assinalar "SIM" ou "NÃO" para cada item objetivo da escala, caso identificassem o item como uma barreira ou não para a inclusão/adesão. Resultados: 64(81%) da amostra não sabia da existência da reabilitação cardiovascular e dos seus benefícios. Para 50(63%) a distância da residência até o centro de reabilitação foi uma barreira. Além disso, o custo com mobilidade urbana 37 (47%) e a não indicação do médico por achar desnecessário 32 (40%) também foram apontadas como barreiras. Conclusão: Os resultados deste estudo indicam que as principais bramireis para a não inserção em programas de reabilitação cardiovascular foram a falta de conhecimento sobre os benefícios desse tipo de programa, a distância da residência dos pacientes até o centro mais próximo e o custo com deslocamento.
Fortalecimento muscular e condicionamento físico em hemiplégicos
Authors: Teixeira-Salmela Luci Fuscaldi , Oliveira Edênia Santos Garcia , Santana Eneida Geralda Santos , Resende Gessione Patricia
Published: June 2022

Estudos da literatura demonstram um agravamento do déficit funcional do processo de envelhecimento pelas manifestações clínicas do Acidente vascular cerebral (AVC), como fraqueza muscular, descondicionamento e espasticidade. Pacientes hemiplégicos crônicos submetidos a treinamento de força muscular e condicionamento aeróbico apresentam melhora da velocidade da marcha, maior capacidade de geração de força, aumento do VO2 máximo, melhora da performance funcional e da qualidade de vida, sem, entretanto, alterar o tônus muscular.
A avaliação do uso da toxina botulínica A e da cinesioterapia na melhora da marcha do portador de paralisia cerebral do tipo hemiparético
Authors: Faria Tereza Cristina Carbonari de , Masiero Danilo , Spósito Maria Matilde de Melo , Saad Marcelo
Published: June 2022

Foram estudados 14 pacientes com paralisia cerebral do tipo hemiparético, eqüinismo dinâmico e idade entre 3 e 9 anos, com média de 5,93 anos. Os pacientes foram distribuídos em dois grupos: Grupo I – 7 crianças que foram tratadas com toxina botulínica tipo A (TBA) nos músculos gastrocnêmios e solear e tratamento cinesioterápico; Grupo II – 7 crianças que receberam apenas tratamento cinesioterápico. Avaliaram-se: a amplitude de movimento do tornozelo, o tônus muscular, a ação do músculo tibial anterior, a velocidade, a cadência da marcha, além da análise observacional da marcha e grau de satisfação dos pais. A análise estatística dos resultados mostrou, com significância, que no Grupo I houve melhora de todas as medidas avaliadas num intervalo mais curto de tempo. No Grupo II não houve melhora de todas as medidas avaliadas e o ganho em algumas medidas ocorreu num tempo mais longo.
Prematuridade recorrente: dados do estudo “Nascer no Brasil”
Authors: Dias Barbara Almeida Soares , Leal Maria do Carmo , Martinelli Katrini Guidolini , Nakamura-Pereira Marcos , Esteves-Pereira Ana Paula , Neto Edson Theodoro dos Santos
Published: June 2022

OBJETIVO Descrever e estimar a taxa de prematuridade recorrente no Brasil segundo o tipo de parto, ponderado pelos fatores associados. MÉTODOS Os dados foram obtidos do estudo nacional de base hospitalar “Nascer no Brasil”, realizado em 2011 e 2012, a partir de entrevistas com 23.894 mulheres. Inicialmente foi utilizado o teste qui-quadrado para verificar as diferenças entre os recém-nascidos, segundo a prematuridade prévia e o tipo de prematuridade recorrente. Sequencialmente, aplicou-se o método de ponderação pelo escore de propensão para equilibrar os grupos de acordo com as seguintes covariáveis: idade materna, classificação socioeconômica, tabagismo durante a gravidez, paridade, cesárea anterior, natimorto ou óbito neonatal anterior, hipertensão crônica e diabetes crônica. Por último, foi realizada regressão logística múltipla para estimar a prematuridade recorrente. RESULTADOS Foram analisados 6.701 recém-nascidos. A taxa de prematuridade recorrente foi de 42,0%, considerando todas as mulheres com prematuridade prévia. Dentre os prematuros recorrentes, 62,2% foram espontâneos e 37,8% ocorreram por intervenção-obstétrica. Após a ponderação pelo escore de propensão, verificou-se que mulheres com prematuridade prévia têm 3,89 vezes a chance de terem prematuridade recorrente espontânea (ORaj = 3,89; IC95% 3,01–5,03) e 3,47 vezes a chance de terem prematuridade recorrente por intervenção obstétrica (ORaj = 3,47; IC95% 2,59–4,66), em comparação às mulheres que tiveram recém-nascidos termo completo. CONCLUSÕES A prematuridade prévia revelou-se um forte preditor para sua recorrência. Assim, ampliar e melhorar o monitoramento e manejo de gestantes com história de prematuridade impacta fortemente na redução das taxas e, consequentemente, na redução dos riscos de morbimortalidade infantil no país.
Covid-19 vaccination priorities defined on machine learning
Authors: Couto Renato Camargos , Pedrosa Tania Moreira Grillo , Seara Luciana Moreira , Couto Carolina Seara , Couto Vitor Seara , Giacomin Karla , Abreu Ana Claudia Couto de
Published: June 2022

OBJECTIVE: Defining priority vaccination groups is a critical factor to reduce mortality rates. METHODS: We sought to identify priority population groups for covid-19 vaccination, based on in-hospital risk of death, by using Extreme Gradient Boosting Machine Learning (ML) algorithm. We performed a retrospective cohort study comprising 49,197 patients (18 years or older), with RT-PCR-confirmed for covid-19, who were hospitalized in any of the 336 Brazilian hospitals considered in this study, from March 19th, 2020, to March 22nd, 2021. Independent variables encompassed age, sex, and chronic health conditions grouped into 179 large categories. Primary outcome was hospital discharge or in-hospital death. Priority population groups for vaccination were formed based on the different levels of in-hospital risk of death due to covid-19, from the ML model developed by taking into consideration the independent variables. All analysis were carried out in Python programming language (version 3.7) and R programming language (version 4.05). RESULTS: Patients’ mean age was of 60.5 ± 16.8 years (mean ± SD), mean in-hospital mortality rate was 17.9%, and the mean number of comorbidities per patient was 1.97 ± 1.85 (mean ± SD). The predictive model of in-hospital death presented area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUC - ROC) equal to 0.80. The investigated population was grouped into eleven (11) different risk categories, based on the variables chosen by the ML model developed in this study. CONCLUSIONS: The use of ML for defining population priorities groups for vaccination, based on risk of in-hospital death, can be easily applied by health system managers.
Simulated QLCS Vortices in a High-Shear, Low-CAPE Environment
Authors: Lovell Levi T. , Parker Matthew D.
Published: June 2022

Tornadoes produced by quasi-linear convective systems (QLCSs) in low instability environments present distinctive challenges for forecasters. This study analyzes a population of 56 vortices (all cyclonic) in a full-physics, case study simulation to examine vortex characteristics and their relationships to the pre-line environment. Peak surface vortex intensity correlates with peak vortex depth, peak surface wind speed, and vortex pathlength. The strongest vortices are the deepest and longest lived, implying that they would be most detectable. The modeled surface vortices are primarily associated with gust front cusps and bow echoes, line breaks, and supercell-like features. Strong vortices frequently have sustained, superposed surface vorticity and near-ground updrafts for several minutes. Although weak vortices lack this superposition, they often exhibit impressive midlevel vorticity and midlevel updrafts. The environments of the weak and strong vortices are similar with small, yet statistically significant, differences in several thermodynamic and kinematic fields. The profiles near strong vortices have more low-level CAPE, steeper lapse rates, and stronger deep-layer vertical wind shear. However, the small magnitudes of the differences imply that forecasters might struggle to discriminate well between nontornadic and tornadic environments in high-shear, low-CAPE events. Despite the similarities, the profiles produce distinct reflectivity, updraft, and vertical vorticity distributions in idealized cloud model simulations. The most intense updrafts and vortices in the idealized runs occur when the environmental profiles from the strong vortex cases are combined with a QLCS orientation more normal to the lower-tropospheric vertical wind shear.
Treatment of Radiation Enteritis With Fecal Transplantation
Authors: Liu Ting , Su Dan , Lei Chao , Liu Zhihua
Published: June 2022

Radiation enteritis (RE) is a frequent complication in patients who undergo pelvic irradiation, and this condition has been increasingly diagnosed. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is being developed in recent years, and it has remarkable curative effect for the clostridium and inflammatory bowel disease. Herein, we present a case of recurrent RE in a 59-year-old woman with RE 18 years after radiotherapy for cervical carcinoma. Fecal microbiota transplantation therapy with intestinal flora from her 18-year-old son was applied and was successful in relieving the symptoms. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first case report of FMT in a patient with RE.
Social, Formal, and Political Determinants of Trade Under Weak Rule of Law: Experimental Evidence from Senegalese Firms
Authors: Bhandari Abhit
Published: June 2022

How do firms ensure secure exchange when the rule of law is weak and contracting institutions privilege the politically connected? In developing countries, firms may use social, formal, or political heuristics when selecting business partners, but how these factors jointly impact exchange remains understudied. In this article, I develop these theoretical mechanisms and test their impact with a conjoint experiment administered to 2389 formal and informal firms in Senegal. I find evidence in support of all three theories: To varying degrees, social, state, and political factors simultaneously impact firms’ sense of deal security and likelihood of exchange. The results demonstrate the substantial influence of formal predictors of exchange even in an overwhelmingly informal business environment, and also establish the countervailing effects of political connections on trade. These findings suggest that firms in developing countries must contend with an intricate political calculus to ensure their growth.
Unlawful killing at inquests: Clarity or confusion?
Authors: Kelly Gerard
Published: June 2022

This article examines the standard of proof for unlawful killing in coronial proceedings. Historically, the criminal standard of proof governed inquest findings of unlawful killing. In R (Maughan) v Her Majesty’s Senior Coroner for Oxfordshire, the Supreme Court resolved the important question of whether the criminal or civil standard governed inquest conclusions of unlawful killing. The court concluded that the correct standard of proof for all conclusions in coronial proceedings is the balance of probabilities. This article argues that whilst preserving differing standards of proof in coronial proceedings was no longer defensible and Maughan has provided welcome clarity, unanswered questions remain concerning the implementation of this fundamental change.
Book review: Arvind Mohan, Bihari Mazdooron ki Peeda [The Pains of Bihari Labourers]
Authors: Kumar Sushil
Published: June 2022

Arvind Mohan, Bihari Mazdooron ki Peeda [The Pains of Bihari Labourers], (Hindi) Radhakrishna Prakashan, New Delhi, 2017, ₹172 pp., ISBN: 978-81-8361-847-2 (Hardcover).
Finite-time sliding mode control of underwater vehicles in 3D space
Authors: Keymasi Khalaji Ali , Bahrami Shahab
Published: June 2022

In this paper, trajectory tracking control of an underwater vehicle in three-dimensional (3D) space has been addressed. The assumed underwater vehicle has 6 degrees of freedom and the aim is to control all system rotations and displacements. In this paper, a finite-time sliding mode controller as a robust control method is proposed for an underwater vehicle with 6 degrees of freedom in 3D space using the method without simplifications or decouplings. Therefore, both system positions and orientations are controlled in the presence of disturbances and uncertainties. In previous research works, control of two-dimensional underwater vehicles is commonly studied. In this paper, a novel stable control algorithm is proposed for an underwater vehicle with 6 degrees of freedom. The stability of the closed-loop system is analyzed using the Lyapunov theory. The designed algorithm can cover 3D complicated tasks. Also, the designed algorithm as a robust control approach can attenuate external disturbances. The performance and stability of this approach are compared with the sliding mode controller. The numerical comparison results show that the proposed approach is effective and applicable in practice.
Feature extraction and fault detection scheme via improved locality preserving projection and SVDD
Authors: Hassan Shah Muhammad Zohaib , Ahmed Zahoor , Hu Lisheng
Published: June 2022

Manifold learning is widely adopted for the fault detection of industrial processes. However, the quality of low-dimensional embedding coordinates can be adversely affected by ill-constructed graph Laplacian. An improved locality preserving projection (ILPP) scheme is proposed. ILPP is built on a geometrically inspired Laplacian, and the Riemannian metric is used to find the suitable bandwidth parameter. The proposed approach combines the advantages of ILPP in preserving manifold data structures and those of support vector data description (SVDD) in handling complex process data distributions. Case studies on helix data, hot strip mill, and Pensim benchmark processes demonstrate the utility and feasibility of the proposed approach. The average fault detection rate for proposed ILPP is 99%, which is higher than locality preserving projection (LPP; 87.8%), local tangent space alignment (LTSA; 74.9%), and principal component analysis (PCA; 90.6%).