Prediction of global potential growth areas for Panax ginseng based on GMPGIS system and MaxEnt model / 中国中药杂志

The suitable habitat for the endangered and valuable medicinal herb Panax ginseng is gradually decreasing. It is crucial to investigate its suitable growing areas in China for global protection and sustainable utilization of P. ginseng. In this study, 371 distribution points of P. ginseng were collected, and 21 environmental factors were used as ecological indicators. The geographic information system for global medicinal plants(GMPGIS) system, MaxEnt model, and Thiessen polygon method were used to analyze the potential suitable areas for P. ginseng globally. The results showed that the key environmental variables affecting P. ginseng were precipitation in the hottest quarter(Bio18) and the coefficient of temperature seasonality(Bio4). The suitable habitats for P. ginseng were mostly located in the "One Belt, One Road" countries such as China, Japan, South Korea, North Korea, and Russia. The highly suitable habitats were mainly distributed along mountain ranges in southeastern Shandong, southern Shanxi and Shaanxi, northern Jiangsu, and northwestern Henan of China. Data analysis indicated that the current P. ginseng planting sites were all in high suitability zones, and the Thiessen polygon results showed that the geographic locations of P. ginseng production companies were unbalanced and urgently needed optimization. This study provides data support for P. ginseng planting site selection, scientific introduction, production layout, and long-term development planning.

Percepciones sobre el retorno presencial a clases en el marco del prácticum profesional en educación física / Perceptions of face-to-face return to class in the framework of professional practicum in physical education / Percepções sobre o retorno ao ensino presencial no marco do estágio profissional em Educação Física

El objetivo de la investigación fue conocer las percepciones de los estudiantes en Práctica de Síntesis Profesional (PSP) de la carrera de Educación Física de una universidad chilena respecto al retorno a la presencialidad tras dos años de confinamiento. Para el desarrollo de este estudio piloto se utilizó un enfoque cuantitativo, no experimental transversal con alcance descriptivo de tipo exploratorio La muestra se compuso de 45 estudiantes en PSP dentro de la región del Maule, Chile, con cursos que van desde Pre Básica hasta enseñanza media en establecimientos municipales, particulares y particulares subvencionados. Los resultados indican que los docentes en formación perciben el retorno a la presencialidad como un proceso complejo por el contexto vivido en la actualidad, experimentando desafíos educativos, adaptaciones y medidas sanitarias en el desarrollo de sus clases. Se concluye que existen diversos factores que han afectado el proceso de prácticas, generando la necesidad de reorientar las metodologías de trabajo de los docentes y reorganizando la realización de las clases, sin embargo, esto no significó que fuese un proceso negativo, donde a pesar de las dificultades, fue favorable y significativo volver a interactuar con los estudiantes presencialmente.

The present study aims to know the perception of students in Professional Synthesis Practice (PSP) from the Physical Education major, at a Chilean university, in regard to returning to in person teaching after two years of confinement where people were affected worldwide, leaving their daily lives behind, and education was no exception. The sample was comprised of 45 students who are carrying out their PSP in the Maule Region, Chile, taking courses that range from pre-basic to high school in public, private, and partly subsidized schools. The results indicate that teachers in training perceive returning to in-person teaching as a complex process due to the current context, as well as the experience of educational challenges, adaptations, and health measures in the development of their classes. It is concluded that several factors affected the internship process, generating the need to reorient the teachers' work methodologies, and reorganizing the way classes are conducted. However, this did not mean that it was a negative process, despite the difficulties; it was favorable and meaningful to interact with the students in person.

O objetivo foi conhecer as percepções dos estudantes em estágio profissional de síntese (PSP) do curso de Educação Física de uma universidade chilena sobre o retorno ao ensino presencial após dois anos de confinamento. Para o desenvolvimento deste estudo piloto, utilizou-se uma abordagem quantitativa, não experimental, transversal, com escopo descritivo exploratório. A amostra foi composta por 45 estudiantes de PSP da região de Maule, Chile, com cursos de pré-básico a ensino médio em estabelecimentos municipais, privados e privados subsidiados. Os resultados indicam que os professores em formação percebem o retorno ao ensino presencial como um processo complexo devido ao contexto atual, vivenciando desafios educacionais, adaptações e medidas de saúde no desenvolvimento de suas aulas. Conclui-se que são vários os fatores que afetaram o processo de estágio, gerando a necessidade de reorientar as metodologias de trabalho dos professores e reorganizar a condução das aulas, no entanto, isso não significa que tenha sido um processo negativo, onde apesar das dificuldades, foi favorável e significativo para interagir novamente com os alunos pessoalmente.

Lessons learnt from UNAIDS virtual technical support to countries applying for funding from the Global Fund COVID-19 Response Mechanism

In 2020 the Global Fund for AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria initiated a new funding modality, the COVID-19 Response Mechanism, to mitigate the pandemic's effects on HIV, TB and malaria programmes and health systems in implementer countries. In 2021 UNAIDS introduced an innovative technical virtual support mechanism for COVID-19 Response Mechanism proposal development to help countries quickly implement COVID-19 interventions while at the same time adapting HIV and related services to the pandemic's circumstances and mitigate its impact while maintaining hard-won gains. It also intended to ensure more attention was paid to communities, human rights and gender considerations in proposal development, resulting in successful proposals to mitigate COVID-19's impact, bring human rights-based and people-centred HIV programmes back on track and even expand their reach through using new delivery platforms. In 2021, applications from 18 sub-Saharan African and Asian countries received in-depth remote peer reviews. We discuss the reviews' key findings and recommendations to improve proposal quality and identify future opportunities for virtual technical support. The model was successful and contributed to better quality funding applications, but also highlighted challenges in pandemic mitigation, adaptations and innovations of HIV programmes. Countries still fell short on comprehensive community, human rights and gender interventions, as well as innovations in HIV service delivery, especially in prevention and gender-based violence. Several other weaknesses meant that some countries would have to refine their programme design and implementation model in the final version of their funding application. There are implications for future assistance to countries trying to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on their health programmes and innovative ways to deliver technical support using new technologies and local expertise.

Contribuições do ensino híbrido e da neurociência para o processo de ensino-aprendizagem / Contributions of hybrid teaching and Neuroscience to the teaching learning process

Este artigo propõe uma reflexão acerca do que é possível observar nos estudantes de hoje, revelando a importância das adaptações curriculares para o sucesso das aprendizagens, e que cada estudante é único e precisa ser visto dentro de suas particularidades, e, dessa forma, propor uma educação com condições de construir conhecimento de forma consciente e significativa, uma educação para todos. Para compreender melhor o processo de ensino-aprendizagem, a Neurociência aplicada à educação, junto com outras vertentes, ajuda a despertar a curiosidade e o interesse de como esse estudante aprende e como tudo isso fica guardado na memória e nas conexões cerebrais. É importante ressignificar os conhecimentos e abrir espaço para a contribuição da Neurociência e a adequação para o ensino híbrido, utilizando esses novos recursos, acompanhamentos e adaptações curriculares para a aprendizagem e desenvolvimento dos estudantes com dificuldades de aprendizagem.

This article proposes a reflection on what is possible to observe in today's students, revealing the importance of curricular adaptations for the success of learning, and that each student is unique and needs to be seen within its particularities, and thus proposing an education with conditions to build knowledge in a conscious and meaningful way, an education for all. In order to better understand the teaching process, learning Neuroscience applied to education, along with other aspects, help to arouse curiosity and interest in how this student learns and how all this is kept in memory and brain connections. It is important to reframe knowledge and open space for the contribution of Neuroscience and the adequacy for hybrid teaching, using these new resources, accompaniments and curricular adaptations for the learning and development of students with learning difficulties.

The dose-response phenomenon associated with strength training is independent of the volume of sets and repetitions per session / O fenômeno de dose-resposta associado ao treinamento de força é independente do volume de séries e repetições por sessão / El fenómeno de dosis-respuesta asociado al entrenamiento de fuerza es independiente del volumen de series y repeticiones por sesión

ABSTRACT Introduction There are few studies on the effectiveness of training models with high volume sets per session in particular muscle groups. Objective The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of different resistance training (RT) repetitions with equalized volumes on muscle adaptations. Methods This study used an experimental design in which forty-seven volunteers underwent 8 weeks of RT after having been distributed randomly into three groups: ten sets of three maximum repetitions (10x3), three sets of ten maximum repetitions (3x10) and five sets of six maximum repetitions (5x6) for each muscular group per training session. Maximum strength (1RM test) and muscle thickness (MT) were evaluated as outcomes. Results A significant main effect (p=0.001) of time on maximum strength was observed for the three groups, but no significance was observed (p>0.05) in time x group interactions. A significant main effect (p=0.001) of time was observed on MT for biceps, triceps and vastus lateralis, without significant differences for time x group interactions. Significant correlations were found between maximum strength and muscle thickness after general statistical analyses for all protocols. Conclusion Improvements in maximum strength and muscle thickness are similar when repetition volumes are equalized through the number of series and repetitions. Level of evidence I; Therapeutic studies, investigation of treatment results.

RESUMO Introdução Existem poucos estudos sobre a eficácia de modelos de treinamento com conjuntos de alto volume por sessão em grupos musculares específicos. Objetivos O objetivo do estudo foi investigar os efeitos de diferentes repetições do treinamento de resistência (TR) com volumes equalizados nas adaptações musculares. Métodos Este estudo tem desenho experimental com 47 voluntários que realizaram oito semanas de TR depois de serem distribuídos randomicamente em três grupos: dez séries de três repetições máximas (10x3), três séries de dez repetições máximas (3x10) e cinco séries de seis repetições máximas (5x6) para cada grupo muscular por sessão de treinamento. A força máxima (teste de 1RM) e a espessura muscular (EM) foram avaliadas como desfecho. Resultados Verificou-se efeito significativo (p = 0,001) sobre o tempo na força máxima nos três grupos, contudo, nenhuma significância (p > 0,05) foi observada nas interações entre tempo e grupo. Constatou-se efeito significativo (p = 0,001) do tempo sobre a EM para bíceps, tríceps e vasto lateral, sem diferenças significativas nas interações entre tempo e grupo. Correlações significativas foram encontradas entre força máxima e espessura muscular depois das análises estatísticas gerais para todos os protocolos. Conclusões A melhora da força máxima e da espessura muscular é semelhante quando o volume de repetições é equalizado considerando o número de séries e repetições. Nível de evidência I; Estudos terapêuticos, investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción Existen pocos estudios sobre la eficacia de modelos entrenamiento con conjuntos de alto volumen por sesión en grupos musculares específicos. Objetivos El objetivo del estudio fue investigar los efectos de diferentes repeticiones del entrenamiento de resistencia (ER) con volúmenes ecualizados en las adaptaciones musculares. Métodos Este estudio tiene diseño experimental con 47 voluntarios que realizaron ocho semanas de ER después de ser distribuidos aleatoriamente en tres grupos: diez series de tres repeticiones máximas (10x3), tres series de diez repeticiones máximas (3x10) y cinco series de seis repeticiones máximas (5x6) para cada grupo muscular por sesión de entrenamiento. La fuerza máxima (test de 1RM) y el espesor muscular (EM) fueron evaluados como conclusión. Resultados Se verificó efecto significativo (p = 0,001) sobre el tiempo en la fuerza máxima en los tres grupos, sin embargo, ninguna significancia (p> 0,05) fue observada en las interacciones entre tiempo y grupo. Se constató efecto significativo (p = 0,001) del tiempo sobre el EM para bíceps, tríceps y vasto lateral, sin diferencias significativas en las interacciones entre tiempo y grupo. Fueron encontradas correlaciones significativas entre fuerza máxima y espesor muscular después de los análisis estadísticos generales para todos los protocolos. Conclusiones La mejora de la fuerza máxima y del espesor muscular es semejante cuando el volumen de repeticiones es ecualizado considerando el número de series y repeticiones. Nivel de evidencia I; Estudios terapéuticos, investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

Flowers and thorns in pregnancy: experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic / Flores y espinas en el embarazo: experiencias durante la pandemia del COVID-19 / Flores e espinhos na gestação: experiências durante a pandemia de COVID-19

ABSTRACT Objective: To understand the repercussions of COVID-19 on the path of pregnancy. Method: Qualitative, participatory action research (PAR) study, based on Paulo Freire's Research Itinerary. A virtual culture circle was held in October 2020, with the participation of 12 pregnant women, living in the South and Southeast regions of Brazil. Results: In the virtual culture circle, pregnant women talked and critically reflected on two generating themes: flowers and thorns in the course of pregnancy. They meant living in the virtual culture circle as spaces for sharing experiences, welcoming and learning, among others. Conclusions: For the participants, pregnancy during the pandemic brought difficulties such as social isolation, absence from work and the university, fears, anxieties, loneliness and insecurities. However, it also improved health care, intensifying self-care and investment in family relationships.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Comprender las repercusiones del COVID-19 en la trayectoria del embarazo. Método: Estudio cualitativo, acción-participante, basado en el Itinerario de Investigación de Paulo Freire. En octubre de 2020 se realizó un círculo de cultura virtual, con la participación de 12 mujeres embarazadas, residentes en las regiones Sur y Sudeste de Brasil. Resultados: En el círculo de cultura virtual, las gestantes dialogaron y reflexionaron críticamente sobre dos temas generadores: flores y espinas en el transcurso del embarazo. Significaron vivir en el círculo de cultura virtual como espacios para compartir experiencias, acoger y aprender, entre otros. Conclusiones: Para las participantes, el embarazo durante la pandemia trajo dificultades como aislamiento social, ausencia del trabajo y de la universidad, miedos, ansiedades, soledad e inseguridades. Pero también mejoró la atención médica, intensificando el autocuidado e invirtiendo en las relaciones familiares.

RESUMO Objetivo: Compreender as repercussões da COVID- 19 no caminho da gestação. Método: Estudo qualitativo, do tipo ação-participante, com fundamentação no Itinerário de Pesquisa de Paulo Freire. Realizou-se um círculo de cultura virtual em outubro de 2020, com a participação de 12 gestantes, residentes nas regiões Sul e Sudeste do Brasil. Resultados: No círculo de cultura virtual, as gestantes dialogaram e refletiram criticamente sobre dois temas geradores: flores e espinhos no caminhar da gestação. Significaram a vivência no círculo de cultura virtual como espaços para compartilhar experiências, acolhimento e aprendizado, dentre outros. Conclusões: Para as participantes, a gestação durante a pandemia trouxe dificuldades como isolamento social, afastamento do trabalho e da universidade, medos, angústias, solidão e inseguranças. Mas, também, melhorou os cuidados com a saúde, intensificando o autocuidado e o investimento nas relações familiares.

Climate Change Responses of Cocoa Farmers in Ghana

Background: Undoubtedly, vulnerability and adaptation of the agricultural sector to the adverse impacts of climate change are among the most crucial concerns of many developing countries where agriculture is largely rain-fed. In Ghana, the cocoa sector is the mainstay of the agricultural sector, contributing about 60% of agricultural GDP. The cacao tree is susceptible to the vagaries of climate, a fact which manifests in outbreak of pests and diseases and their pattern, loss of pods and early ripening of young pods, among others. Cocoa farmers have over the years used short-term (coping) strategies and long-term (adaptation) strategies to offset the effects of climate change on their production. Methods: A field survey of 444 cocoa farmers in Ghana was conducted, using a guided interview schedule. Results: Farmers’ coping strategies included those on crop, soil fertility and soil water management practices. Adaptation strategies included behavioural adjustments (spraying, fertilizer application, weed control, pruning) as well as institutional and technological adjustments (change in variety and increased extension services). Conclusion: The study showed that farmers who perceived that the climate had changed and had some effect on their production usually employed adaptation measures. Differences in farmers in terms of personal managerial and entrepreneurial capacities and family circumstances influence their responses to climate change. However, one major challenge is to separate the adaptations in response to climate change from adaptations in response to other stimuli, such as market price or government policy changes that farmers face in the real world. Assessing adaptation strategies also provides the information needed by cocoa farmers to increase their capacity to moderate potential damages and to take advantage of opportunities, if any, to survive in a changing climate.

Are cluster sets an effective method to induce muscular hypertrophy in response to resistance training?

ABSTRACT There are a plethora of studies that have analyzed the effects of different resistance training methods on muscle hypertrophy. Recent studies have pointed out some potential advantage of training using cluster sets (CS) compared with traditional sets. It is still unclear whether CS are an effective method. The objective of this review was to investigate and discuss the current knowledge about the effect of CS on muscle hypertrophy. Four studies investigating the effect of CS on muscle hypertrophy were found. These studies demonstrated that CS induced similar or lower muscle hypertrophy than traditional sets. Thus, CS may lead to muscle hypertrophy, but did not provide a superior stimulus when compared to traditional sets of equated load.

RESUMO Um conjunto de estudos que tem analisado o efeito de diferentes métodos de treinamento resistido na hipertrofia muscular. Estudos têm pontuado várias potenciais vantagens do treinamento usando séries em conglomerados (SC) quando comparado com séries tradicionais. Ainda não está claro se as SC é um método efetivo. O objetivo desta revisão foi investigar e discutir o conhecimento recente sobre o efeito das SC na hipertrofia muscular. Quatro estudos investigando o efeito das SC na hipertrofia muscular foram encontrados. Esses estudos demonstraram que as SC induziram similar ou menor hipertrofia muscular do que séries tradicionais. Portanto, as SC podem induzir hipertrofia, porém não fornecem um estímulo superior quando comparado às séries tradicionais com carga equiparada.

RESUMEN Muchos estudios han analizado los efectos de diferentes métodos de entrenamiento de la fuerza en la hipertrofia muscular. Algunos estudios han resaltado las ventajas de introducir períodos de recuperación intra-serie (series cluster, SC) al compararlo con las series tradicionales. No está todavía claro si las SC son un método efectivo. El objetivo de esta revisión fue investigar y discutir el conocimiento actual sobre el efecto de las SC en la hipertrofia muscular. Se encontraron cuatro estudios investigando el efecto de las SC en la hipertrofia. Estos estudios demuestran que las SC inducen igual o menor hipertrofia que las series tradicionales. Así, las SC podrían inducir hipertrofia muscular pero no proporcionan un estímulo superior al compararlas con las series tradicionales.

Efectos de dos protocolos de entrenamiento sobre el lactato sanguíneo en caballos de paso fino / Effects of two training protocols on blood lactate in paso fino horses

RESUMEN Objetivo: comparar los efectos de un protocolo de entrenamiento de resistencia (ER) con un protocolo tradicional (ET) sobre la concentración sanguínea de lactato (L) y la creatin kinasa (CK). Materiales y Métodos: se aplicaron dos protocolos de entrenamiento durante 6 meses divididos en tres etapas. Se realizaron pruebas de esfuerzo antes de comenzar los protocolos de entrenamiento y al finalizar cada una de las etapas. En cada prueba se tomaron muestras de sangre venosa en reposo, durante el ejercicio y en recuperación para medir el lactato (L) y al inicio y al final para medir la creatin kinasa (CK) e inferir las adaptaciones metabólicas y musculares. Se calculó la diferencia de medianas del lactato basal por medio de la U Mann Whitney y se comparó la diferencia de medias del porcentaje de aclaramiento entre los grupos a través de la T de Students. Resultados: se encontró una diferencia significativa en el porcentaje de depuración de lactato entre ER y ET. También hubo un aumento significativo de los valores de CK intra-grupos, antes y después de las pruebas, pero manteniéndose dentro de los rangos de referencia. Discusión: el ER aumentó la capacidad de metabolizar el lactato pos-ejercicio en potros con entrenamiento de resistencia, aunque no hubo diferencias entre la máxima producción de L entre el grupo ER y ET. El comportamiento de la CK dentro de los rangos de referencia indica que no hubo daño muscular en los potros de ambos grupos.

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare the effects of a resistance training protocol (ER) with a traditional protocol (ET) on blood lactate concentration and CK. Materials and methods: Two training protocols were applied for 6 months divided into three stages. Effort tests were performed before beginning the training protocols and at the end of each stage. In each test, samples of venous blood were taken at rest, during exercise and in recovery to measure lactate (L), and at the beginning and at the end to measure creatine kinase (CK) and infer metabolic and muscular adaptations. The difference in baseline lactate medians was calculated using Mann Whitney U and the mean difference in the percentage of clearance between the groups was compared through the Students' T test. Results: A significant difference in the percentage of lactate clearance between ER and ET was found. There was also a significant increase in intra-group CK values, before and after the tests, but remaining within the reference ranges. Discussion: ER increased the ability to metabolize post-exercise lactate in foals with resistance training, although there was no difference between the maximum production of L between the ER group and ET. The behavior of CK within the reference ranges indicates that there was no muscle damage in the foals of both groups of foals.

Docencia universitaria y estudiantes con discapacidad: cuestiones sobre accesibilidad y adaptación en el estudio / University teaching and students with disabilities: questions about accessibility and adaptation in the study

Este trabajo aborda la discapacidad en el contexto universitario, desde la adecuación a las necesidades y características de la persona. Esta mirada busca que quienes presenten necesidades especiales asociadas a la discapacidad, dispongan de los medios, apoyos y recursos suficientes para asegurar la igualdad real y efectiva de oportunidades dentro de la comunidad universitaria. De acuerdo con ese objetivo, con este artículo se pretende generar una reflexión en el docente universitario, sobre las cuestiones de accesibilidad y adaptación -como aspectos básicos- en la atención a su alumnado con discapacidad. Estos aspectos se relacionan con la búsqueda de desarrollo tecnológico, formativo y personal-social, propio de una Universidad abierta a la sociedad, apuntando hacia valores de normalización, integración e inclusión. En una primera parte, se tratan generalidades sobre el desarrollo tecnológico y usuarios con discapacidad, para pasar a una segunda en la que se abordan cuestiones de la accesibilidad y la discapacidad, continuando con su concreción en el currículum universitario del alumnado con discapacidad.

This work addresses disability in the higher education context, in terms of reasonable and achievable adjustments related to the individual's needs and features. This approach aims to ensure assistive technology, support, and resources as means to guarantee real and effective access to equal opportunities for those members that may present special needs, due to their disability situation, within the university community. Therefore, this paper attempts to generate a reflection for university lecturers about accessibility and adaptation, as basic aspects in their duty of supporting disabled students. These aspects are directly related to technological, educational and socio-personal development, present in those higher education institutions open to society and oriented to values such as integration and inclusion. In the first place, some general information is provided about technological development and users with disabilities. In the second place, certain aspects related to accessibility and disability are addressed, and their materialization in the university curriculum of disabled students.

Comparative evaluation of marginal and internal fit of metal copings fabricated by various CAD/CAM methods / 대한치과보철학회지

PURPOSE: The purpose of the present study was to compare the accuracy of four different metal copings fabricated by CAD/CAM technology and to evaluate clinical effectiveness. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Composite resin tooth of the maxillary central incisor was prepared for a metal ceramic crown and duplicated metal die was fabricated. Then scan the metal die for 12 times to obtain STL files using a confocal microscopy type oral scanner. Metal copings with a thickness of 0.5 mm and a cement space of 50 µm were designed on a CAD program. The Co-Cr metal copings were fabricated by the following four methods: Wax pattern milling & Casting (WM), Resin pattern 3D Printing & casting (RP), Milling & Sintering (MS), Selective laser melting (SLM). Silicone replica technique was used to measure marginal and internal discrepancies. The data was statistically analyzed with One-way analysis of variance and appropriate post hoc test (Scheffe test) (α=.05). RESULTS: Mean marginal discrepancy was significantly smaller in the Group WM (27.66 ± 9.85 µm) and Group MS (28.88 ± 10.13 µm) than in the Group RP (38.09 ± 11.14 µm). Mean cervical discrepancy was significantly smaller in the Group MS than in the Group RP. Mean axial discrepancy was significantly smaller in the Group WM and Group MS then in the Group RP and Group SLM. Mean incisal discrepancies was significantly smaller in the Group RP than in all other groups. CONCLUSION: The marginal and axial discrepancies of the Co-Cr coping fabricated by the Wax pattern milling and Milling/Sintering method were better than those of the other groups. The marginal, cervical and axial fit of Co-Cr copings in all groups are within a clinically acceptable range.

Posture and mobility of the upper body quadrant and pulmonary function in COPD: an exploratory study

ABSTRACT Background There is limited evidence regarding interactions between pulmonary (dys)function, posture, and mobility of the upper body quadrant in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Objectives This exploratory study aimed to investigate whether postural alignment and mobility of the upper quadrant are related to changes in pulmonary function and compare such variables between patients with COPD and healthy individuals. Method Fifteen patients with COPD (67.93±9.71yrs) and 15 healthy controls (66.80±7.47yrs) participated. Pulmonary function (FEV1, FVC) was assessed with spirometry. Alignment and mobility of the head, thoracic spine, and shoulder were assessed using digital photographs. Pectoralis minor muscle (PmM) length and thoracic excursion were assessed with a measuring tape. Groups were compared and linear regression analyses were used to assess potential relationships between postural and mobility variables and pulmonary function. Results Patients with COPD were more likely to have a forward head position at maximal protraction (28.81±7.30º vs. 35.91±8.56º, p=0.02) and overall mobility of the head (21.81±10.42º vs. 13.40±7.84º, p=0.02) and a smaller range of shoulder flexion (136.71±11.91º vs. 149.08±11.58º, p=0.01) than controls. Patients’ non-dominant PmM length and maximal head protraction were predictors of FEV1 (r2adjusted=0.34). These variables, together with the upper thoracic spine at maximal flexion and thoracic kyphosis at maximal extension, were predictors of FVC (r2adjusted=0.68). Conclusion Our findings suggest that impaired pulmonary function is associated with muscle length and mobility adaptations. Further studies are needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and clinical value of these relationships.

Leaf anatomy of Qualea parviflora (Vochysiaceae) in three phytophysiognomies of the Mato Grosso State, Brazil / Anatomia foliar de Qualea parviflora (Vochysiaceae) em três fitofisionomias do Estado Mato Grosso, Brasil

Leaves have a variety of morphological and anatomical characters mainly influenced by climatic, edaphic and biotic factors. The aim of this study was to describe the anatomical leaf traits of Qualea parviflora from three phytophysiognomies. The studied phytophysiognomies were Amazon Savannah on rocky outcrops (ASR), Transition Rupestrian Cerrado (TRC), and Cerradão (CDA). Freehand sections of the leaf blade were made and stained with 0.5% astra blue and with basic fuchsin. From the adaxial and abaxial leaf surface, freehand paradermal sections were made for epidermis analysis. The Jeffrey´s method, with modifications, was used in the epidermis dissociation process. The samples from the TRC phytophysiognomy had relatively smaller ordinary epidermal cells, higher abundance of trichomes, and mesophyll with few intercellular spaces, in comparison to the other phytophysiognomies. The leaves from the ASR phytophysiognomy had higher stomatal index (SI = 21.02), and five to six layers of sclerenchyma surrounding the midrib vascular bundle. The secondary vascular bundles had thicker cell walls and the bundle sheath extended up to the epidermal tissue of both leaf sides. Leaves from the CDA phytophysiognomy had mesomorphic environmental traits, such as a thinner cuticle. It is concluded that trees from ASR and TRC phytophysiognomies have xeromorphic traits following the environmental conditions where they occur.

As folhas são órgãos vegetativos que expressam uma variedade de características morfológicas e anatômicas influenciadas, principalmente, por fatores climáticos, edáficos e bióticos. O presente estudo objetivou levantar as características anatômicas das folhas de Qualea parviflora Mart. presente em três fitofisionomias: Savana Amazônica sobre afloramentos rochosos (SAR), Cerrado Rupestre de Transição (CRT) e Cerradão (CDA). Os cortes anatômicos foram realizados a mão livre e corados com azul de astra e fucsina básica 0,5%. Para a dissociação das epidermes, foi utilizado o método de Jeffrey modificado. As amostras da fitofisionomia de CRT apresentaram células epidérmicas comuns relativamente menores, maior quantidade de tricomas e mesofilo com poucos espaços intercelulares em relação as demais fitofisionomias. As amostras da fitofisionomia de SAR apresentaram maior índice estomático (IE: 21,05), maior quantidade de esclerênquima envolvendo o feixe vascular da nervura central (5 a 6 camadas), feixes vasculares secundários com células de paredes mais espessadas, com bainha que se estende até as células epidérmicas em ambas as faces. As amostras da fitofisionomia de CDA apresentaram caracteres de ambientes mesomórficos, como cutícula mais delgada. Pôde-se concluir que os espécimes que ocorrem em SAR e CRT apresentaram características xeromórficas que estão relacionados ao ambiente de ocorrência.

Leaf morphological strategies of seedlings and saplings of Rhizophora mangle (Rhizophoraceae), Laguncularia racemosa (Combretaceae) and Avicennia schaueriana (Acanthaceae) from Southern Brazil

AbstractThe initial phase of a plant life cycle is a short and critical period, when individuals are more vulnerable to environmental factors. The morphological and anatomical study of seedlings and saplings leaf type enables the understanding of species strategies of fundamental importance in their establishment and survival. The objective of this study was to analyze the structure of seedlings and saplings leaf types of three mangrove species, Avicennia schaueriana, Laguncularia racemosa, Rhizophora mangle, to understand their early life adaptive strategies to the environment. A total of 30 fully expanded cotyledons (A. schaueriana and L. racemosa), 30 leaves of seedlings, and 30 leaves of saplings of each species were collected from a mangrove area in Guaratuba Bay, Paraná State, Brazil. Following standard methods, samples were prepared for morphological (leaf dry mass, density, thickness) and anatomical analysis (epidermis and sub-epidermal layers, stomata types, density of salt secretion glands, palisade and spongy parenchyma thickness). To compare leaf types among species one-way ANOVA and Principal Component Analysis were used, while Cluster Analysis evaluated differences between the species. We observed significant structural differences among species leaf types. A. schaueriana showed the thickest cotyledons, while L. racemosa presented a dorsiventral structure. Higher values of the specific leaf area were observed for seedlings leaves of A. schaueriana, cotyledons of L. racemosa and saplings leaves of A. schaueriana and R. mangle. Leaf density was similar to cotyledons and seedlings leaves in A. schaueriana and L. racemosa, while R. mangle had seedlings leaves denser than saplings. A. schaueriana and R. mangle showed hypostomatic leaves, while L. racemosa amphistomatic; besides, A. chaueriana showed diacytic stomata, while L. racemosa anomocytic, and R. mangle ciclocytic. Seedling leaves were thicker in R. mangle (535 µm) and L.racemosa (520 µm) than in A. schaueriana (470.3 µm); while saplings leaves were thicker in L. racemosa (568.3 µm) than in A. schaueriana seedlings (512.4 µm) and R. mangle (514.6 µm). Besides, seedlings leaves palisade parenchyma showed increasing thickness in L. racemosa (119.2 µm) <A. schaueriana (155.5 µm) <R. mangle (175.4 µm); while in saplings leaves as follows R. mangle (128.4 µm) <A. schaueriana (183.4 µm) <L. racemosa (193.9 µm). Similarly, seedlings leaves spongy parenchyma thickness values were as follows A. schaueriana (182.6 µm) = R. mangle (192.8 µm) <L. racemosa (354.4 µm); while in saplings were A. schaueriana (182.6 µm) = R. mangle (187.3 µm) <L. racemosa (331.3 µm). The analyzed traits, in different combinations, represent morphological adjustments of leaf types to reduce water loss, eliminate salt excess, increase the absorption of light, allowing a higher efficiency on the maintenance of physiological processes in this initial growth stage. Rev. Biol. Trop. 64 (1): 305-317. Epub 2016 March 01.

ResumenLa fase inicial del ciclo de vida de una planta es un período corto y crítico, cuando los individuos son más vulnerables a factores ambientales. El estudio morfológico y anatómico del tipo de hojas de las plántulas y árboles pequeños, permite la comprensión de las estrategias de las especies, que es de importancia fundamental para su establecimiento y supervivencia. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la estructura de los tipos de hojas de las plántulas y árboles pequeños de tres especies de mangle: Avicennia schaueriana, Laguncularia racemosa y Rhizophora mangle, para entender sus estrategias de vida tempranas de adaptación al ambiente. Un total de 30 cotiledones completamente abiertos (A. schaueriana y L. racemosa), 30 hojas de plántulas, y 30 hojas de árboles pequeños de cada especie se recolectaron en una área de manglar en Bahía Guaratuba, Estado de Paraná, Brasil. Siguiendo los métodos estándares, se prepararon muestras para análisis morfológicos (biomasa de hoja seca, densidad y espesor) y anatómicos (epidermis y capas sub-epidérmicas, tipos de estomas, densidad de glándulas secretoras de sal y grosor del parénquima empalizado y del esponjoso). Para comparar los tipos de hojas entre las especies se utilizaron un modelo lineal y Análisis de Componentes Principales, mientras que un análisis de conglomerados evaluó las diferencias entre las especies. Observamos diferencias estructurales significativas entre tipos de hoja en las especies. A.schaueriana mostró cotiledones más gruesos, mientras que L. racemosa presenta una estructura dorsiventral. Se observaron valores más altos del área foliar específica para las hojas de las plántulas de A. schaueriana, cotiledones de L. racemosa y hojas de árboles pequeños de A. schaueriana y R. mangle. La densidad de la hoja fue similar a la de los cotiledones y hojas de plántulas de A. schaueriana y L. racemosa, mientras que R. mangle tenía las hojas de las plántulas más gruesas que los árboles pequeños. A. schaueriana y R. mangle mostraron hojas hipostomáticas; L. racemosa anfiestomáticas; por otro lado A. chaueriana mostró estomas diacíticos, L. racemosa anomocíticos y R. mangle ciclocíticos. Las hojas de las plántulas eran más gruesas en R. mangle (535 micras) y L. racemosa (520 micras) que en A. schaueriana (470.3 m); mientras que las hojas de las plántulas eran más gruesas en L. racemosa (568.3 m) que en A. schaueriana (512.4 micras) y R. mangle (514.6 m). Además el parénquima empalizado de las plántulas mostró un aumento de espesor en L. racemosa (119.2 m) <A. schaueriana (155.5 m) <R. mangle (175.4 m); mientras que en las hojas de los árboles pequeños fue de siguiente manera: R. mangle (128.4 m) <A. schaueriana (183.4 m) <L. racemosa (193.9 m). Del mismo modo, en las hojas de las plántulas los valores del espesor del parénquima esponjoso fueron: A. schaueriana (182.6 m) = R. mangle (192.8 m) <L. racemosa (354.4 m); mientras que en los árboles pequeños: A. schaueriana (182.6 m) = R. mangle (187.3 m) <L. racemosa (331.3 m). Los rasgos analizados, en diferentes combinaciones, representan ajustes morfológicos de tipos de hojas para reducir la pérdida de agua, eliminar el exceso de sal, aumentar la absorción de la luz, lo que permite una mayor eficiencia en el mantenimiento de los procesos fisiológicos en esta etapa de crecimiento inicial.

Time-course effects of aerobic exercise training on cardiovascular and renal parameters in 2K1C renovascular hypertensive rats

Exercise training (Ex) has been recommended for its beneficial effects in hypertensive states. The present study evaluated the time-course effects of Ex without workload on mean arterial pressure (MAP), reflex bradycardia, cardiac and renal histology, and oxidative stress in two-kidney, one-clip (2K1C) hypertensive rats. Male Fischer rats (10 weeks old; 150–180 g) underwent surgery (2K1C or SHAM) and were subsequently divided into a sedentary (SED) group and Ex group (swimming 1 h/day, 5 days/week for 2, 4, 6, 8, or 10 weeks). Until week 4, Ex decreased MAP, increased reflex bradycardia, prevented concentric hypertrophy, reduced collagen deposition in the myocardium and kidneys, decreased the level of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) in the left ventricle, and increased the catalase (CAT) activity in the left ventricle and both kidneys. From week 6 to week 10, however, MAP and reflex bradycardia in 2K1C Ex rats became similar to those in 2K1C SED rats. Ex effectively reduced heart rate and prevented collagen deposition in the heart and both kidneys up to week 10, and restored the level of TBARS in the left ventricle and clipped kidney and the CAT activity in both kidneys until week 8. Ex without workload for 10 weeks in 2K1C rats provided distinct beneficial effects. The early effects of Ex on cardiovascular function included reversing MAP and reflex bradycardia. The later effects of Ex included preventing structural alterations in the heart and kidney by decreasing oxidative stress and reducing injuries in these organs during hypertension.

Association between respiratory and postural adaptations and self-perception of school-aged children with mouth breathing in relation to their quality of life

Objective: To investigate the respiratory and postural adaptations associated with mouth and nasal breathing and to evaluate the associations of such adaptations in mouth breathers' self-perceived quality of life. Method: Cross-sectional study with mouth breathers (initial n=116 and final n=48) and nasal breathers (initial n=131 and final n=24) from elementary school, aged between 7 and 14 years. Chest expansion, using cirtometry, the breathing pattern and the use of accessory muscles, by means of clinical evaluations and photogrammetry, and flexibility tests were evaluated in both groups. Subsequently, the mouth breathers were asked to complete the quality of life questionnaire. Statistical tests: Chi-square, odds ratio, Mann-Whitney, and binomial tests were first applied followed by logistic regressions. Results: Thoracic breathing (p=0.04), using of accessory muscles (p=0.03) and reductions in flexibility (p=0.001) increased the chances of an individual being a mouth breather when compared to nasal breathers. Subsequently, using of accessory muscles decreased the chances of snoring among mouth breathers (p=0.03); the presence of shoulder asymmetry reduced the chances of experiencing quiet sleep (p=0.05) and increased the chances of coughing or being tired when playing or running (p=0.008). Finally, forward head position reduced the chances of waking up at night (p=0.04) and experiencing shortness of breath (p=0.05). Conclusions: Respiratory and postural adaptations increased the chances of individuals persisting with mouth breathing. Additionally, these adaptations could be associated with mouth breathers' self-perceived quality of life. .

Use of anatomical root markers for species identification in Catasetum (Orchidaceae) at the Portal da Amazônia region, MT, Brazil / Uso de marcadores anatômicos radiculares para a determinação de espécies de Catasetum (Orchidaceae) da Região do Portal da Amazônia, MT, Brasil

Orchidaceae is one of the largest botanical families, with approximately 780 genera. Among the genera of this family, Catasetum currently comprises 166 species. The aim of this study was to characterize the root anatomy of eight Catasetum species, verifying adaptations related to epiphytic habit and looking for features that could contribute to the vegetative identification of such species. The species studied were collected at the Portal da Amazônia region, Mato Grosso state, Brazil. The roots were fixed in FAA 50, cut freehand, and stained with astra blue/fuchsin. Illustrations were obtained with a digital camera mounted on a photomicroscope. The roots of examined species shared most of the anatomical characteristics observed in other species of the Catasetum genus, and many of them have adaptations to the epiphytic habit, such as presence of secondary thickening in the velamen cell walls, exodermis, cortex, and medulla. Some specific features were recognized as having taxonomic application, such as composition of the thickening of velamen cell walls, ornamentation of absorbent root-hair walls, presence of tilosomes, composition and thickening of the cortical cell walls, presence of mycorrhizae, endodermal cell wall thickening, the number of protoxylem poles, and composition and thickening of the central area of the vascular cylinder. These traits are important anatomical markers to separate the species within the genus and to generate a dichotomous identification key for Catasetum. Thus, providing a useful tool for taxonomists of this group.

Orchidaceae é uma das maiores famílias botânicas, com cerca de 780 gêneros. Dentre seus gêneros, Catasetum inclui atualmente 166 espécies. Caracterizou-se a raiz de oito espécies de Catasetum com o objetivo de verificar caracteres relacionados ao hábito epifítico e contribuir para a taxonomia do grupo. As espécies foram coletadas na região do Portal da Amazônia, no norte do estado de Mato Grosso. Raízes foram fixadas em FAA 50 (1:1:8 formaldeído, ácido acético glacial e álcool etílico 50%), cortadas à mão livre e corados com azul de astra e fucsina. As ilustrações foram obtidas por meio do capturador de imagens acoplado ao fotomicroscópio. As raízes das espécies estudadas compartilharam a maioria dos caracteres anatômicos observados em outras espécies de Catasetum, e vários destes demonstraram adaptações ao hábito epifítico, tais como presença de espessamento secundário na parede das células do velame, da exoderme, do córtex e da medula. Alguns caracteres foram reconhecidos como tendo aplicação taxonômica, como composição do espessamento da parede das células do velame, ornamentação da parede dos pelos absorventes, presença de tilossomos, composição e espessamento da parede das células do córtex, presença de micorriza, tipo de espessamento da parede das células da endoderme, número de pólos de protoxilema e composição e tipo de espessamento da região central do cilindro vascular. Esses caracteres são importantes marcadores anatômicos, pois possibilitam separar as espécies dentro do gênero e gerar uma chave dicotômica de identificação para as Catasetum da região investigada, fornecendo, assim, uma ferramenta útil para os taxonomistas do grupo.

Application of Problem-based Learning in Course of Activities of Daily Living Skills and Environmental Adaptations / 中国康复理论与实践

@#Objective To investigate the effect of Problem- based Learning (PBL) applied in the course of Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Skills and Environmental Adaptations. Methods PBL (PBL class) and traditional teaching (traditional class) were applied in different classes. Their scores of the final examination were compared, and the students were investigated with the questionnaire. Results The scores of final examination were higher in the PBL class than that in the traditional class (P<0.05). Most of the students accepted the PBL in the course. Conclusion PBL can improve the quality of teaching of occupational therapy.

Application of Problem-based Learning in Course of Activities of Daily Living Skills and Environmental Adaptations / 中国康复理论与实践

Objective To investigate the effect of Problem-based Learning (PBL) applied in the course of Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Skills and Environmental Adaptations. Methods PBL (PBL class) and traditional teaching (traditional class) were applied in different classes. Their scores of the final examination were compared, and the students were investigated with the questionnaire. Results The scores of final examination were higher in the PBL class than that in the traditional class (P<0.05). Most of the students accepted the PBL in the course. Conclusion PBL can improve the quality of teaching of occupational therapy.

“No bastan muros de piedra para hacer una prisión”: la vida cotidiana de los internos de la cárcel Villahermosa, Cali, Colombia / “Stone walls are not enough to build a prison”: the daily life of inmates at "Villahermosa" prison in Cali, Colombia

El presente artículo derivado de investigación, describe la situación carcelaria en Colombia en los últimos años, haciendo énfasis sobre la situación particular del hacinamiento en el establecimiento carcelario Villahermosa de la ciudad de Cali(Colombia). Finalmente se realiza un análisis sobre la manera en que transcurre la vida cotidiana en dicho Centro Carcelario.

The current article, derived from a piece of research, describes the prison situation in Colombia, in the last few years, making emphasis on the particular overcrowding situation at “Villahermosa” Prison in the city of Cali, Colombia. Lastly, an analysis of the daily living conditions at that prison is made.