Neural mechanism for modulation of auditory response of the striatum by locomotion / 南方医科大学学报

OBJECTIVE@#To explore whether the characteristic responses to sound stimulations of the auditory neurons in the striatum is regulated in different behavioral states.@*METHODS@#The auditory neurons in the striatum of awake C57BL/6J mice were selected for this study. We recorded the auditory response of the striatum to noises over a long period of time by building a synchronous in vivo electrophysiological and locomotion recording system and using glass microelectrode attachment recording. By analyzing the running speed of the mice, the behavioral states of the mice were divided into the quiet state and the active state, and the spontaneous activity and evoked responses of the auditory neurons in the striatum were analyzed in these two states.@*RESULTS@#Compared with those recorded in the quiet state, the spontaneous activity of the auditory neurons in the striatum of the mice increased significantly (37.06±12.02 vs 18.51±10.91, P < 0.001) while the auditory response of the neurons decreased significantly (noise intensity=60 dB, 3.45±2.99 vs 3.04±2.76, P < 0.001) in the active state.@*CONCLUSION@#Locomotion has a significant inhibitory effect on the auditory response of the striatum, which may importantly contribute to the decline of sound information recognition ability in the active state.

Efectos de la actividad locomotriz voluntaria gestacional sobre la morfología cardiaca en crías murinas / Effects of gestational voluntary locomotor activity on cardiac morphology in murine offspring

RESUMEN: El objetivo del presente estudio es analizar los efectos de la actividad locomotriz voluntaria gestacional, como un tipo de entrenamiento físico, sobre la morfología de la bomba cardíaca de la cría, en modelo murino de la cepa CF-1. 12 hembras gestantes fueron divididas aleatoriamente en un grupo control y un grupo que realizó actividad locomotriz voluntaria, accediendo a una rueda de actividad durante los primero 12 días de gestación. Se evaluó la morfología cardiaca mediante cortes transversales, midiendo espesor y área de las paredes del ventrículo derecho, ventrículo izquierdo y septum, tanto en valores absolutos como en valores relativos a la masa corporal del individuo. Se observó que la masa corporal de las crías control (GC) fue significativamente mayor que las del grupo cuyas hembras accedieron a la rueda de actividad (GE) (p<0.01). Solo hubo diferencias en los valores absolutos de espesores y áreas miocárdicas de ventrículo derecho, entre el grupo GE y GC (p<0.05), pero al evaluar los espesores y áreas relativos a la masa corporal se observó que las crías del grupo GE presentaron espesores y áreas significativamente mayores que las que grupo GC (p<0.01). En conclusión, la actividad física gestacional altera el desarrollo morfológico de la bomba cardíaca en ratones CF-1, aumentando significativamente el espesor y área de las paredes miocárdicas en relación a la masa corporal total de la cría.

SUMMARY: The objective of the present study is to analyze the effects of gestational voluntary locomotor activity, as a type of physical training, on the morphology of the offspring´s heart pump, in a murine model of the CF-1 strain. Twelve (12) pregnant females were randomly divided in a control group and a group performing voluntary locomotor activity, by accessing an activity wheel during the first 12 days of gestation. Cardiac morphology was evaluated using cross sections, measuring thickness and area of the walls of the right ventricle, left ventricle, and septum, both in absolute values and values relative to the individual's body mass. It was observed that the body mass of the control pups (CG) was significantly higher than those of the group whose females accessed the activity wheel (GE) (p <0.01). Differences were observed only in absolute values of thickness and myocardial areas of the right ventricle, between the GE and GC group (p <0.05). However, when evaluating the thickness and areas relative to body mass, it was observed that the offspring of the GE group presented thicknesses and areas significantly larger than those in the GC group (p <0.01). In conclusion, gestational physical activity alters the morphological development of the heart pump in CF-1 mice, significantly increasing the thickness and area of the myocardial walls in relation to offspring total body mass.

Locomoción humana: modelos y variables biomecánicas / Human locomotion: models and biomechanical variables

Resumen La locomoción con miembros implica diferentes desafíos de tipo mecánico: en cada ciclo, los segmentos deben reposicionarse anatómicamente, con fases de aceleración y deceleración y la consiguiente elevación y descenso del centro de masa. Dentro de la locomoción humana, la marcha y la carrera son actividades fundamentales en todo el ciclo vital humano. En específico, la carrera es una actividad muy estudiada por las ciencias del deporte, medicina, fisioterapia o kinesiología, ingeniería y biología, por el alto impacto articular y muscular que genera, ya que esta trae consigo lesiones y alteraciones en el rendimiento de los pacientes y deportistas. El constante estudio de la locomoción ha reconocido diferentes desafíos de tipo fisiológico y mecánico, tanto en la explicación de fenómenos como en el análisis de estos. Este artículo busca aclarar conceptos a través de textos clásicos, que se consideran básicos e importantes para entender las investigaciones posteriores. Además, se explican diferentes parámetros que sirven para comprender la locomoción, tanto en estudios con humanos como en animales. El objetivo de este trabajo es hacer una revisión de la literatura, que se enfoca en los aspectos mecánicos, energéticos, el efecto del tamaño y los diferentes patrones de la locomoción, con sus modelos mecánicos. Finalmente, los autores esperan que este texto sea un aporte para docentes y estudiantes para la comprensión de la locomoción en idioma español.

Abstract Limbed locomotion involves different mechanical challenges: in each cycle, limbs must be repositioned anatomically, with acceleration and deceleration phases and the consequent raising and lowering of the center of mass. As part of human locomotion, walking and running are fundamental activities throughout the life cycle. In particular, running has been highly studied by sports sciences, medicine, physiotherapy, kinesiology, engineering, and biology due to the high joint and muscular impact it generates, commonly causing injuries and alterations in the performance of patients and athletes. The constant study of locomotion has brought to light the different physiological and mechanical challenges when explaining and analyzing phenomena. Using classical texts, this article aims to clarify concepts considered basic and important to understand further research. In addition, different parameters needed to understand locomotion, both in human and animal studies, are explained. The objective of this paper is to review the literature focused on the mechanical and energetic aspects of locomotion, the effect of size, and the different locomotion patterns and mechanical models. Finally, this paper is presented as a contribution for teachers and students to understand locomotion in the Spanish language.

Resumo A locomoção com membros implica diferentes desafios do tipo mecânico: em cada ciclo, os segmentos devem ser reposicionados anatomicamente, com fases de aceleração e desaceleração e a subsequente elevação e descenso do centro de massa. Dentro da locomoção humana, a marcha e a corrida são atividades fundamentais em todo o ciclo vital humano. Especificamente, a corrida é uma atividade muito estudada pelas ciências do esporte, medicina, fisioterapia ou cinesiologia, engenharia e biologia, devido à geração de alto impacto articular e muscular, trazendo consigo lesões e alterações no rendimento dos pacientes e esportistas. O constante estudo da locomoção reconheceu diferentes desafios de tipo fisiológico e mecânico, tanto na explicação de fenômenos como na análise destes. Este artigo busca aclarar conceitos através de textos clássicos, considerados básicos e importantes para entender as pesquisas posteriores. Além disso, são explicados diferentes parâmetros que servem para compreender a locomoção, tanto em estudos com humanos quanto com animais. O objetivo deste trabalho é fazer uma revisão da literatura, que se enfoca nos aspectos mecânicos, energéticos, no efeito do tamanho e nos diferentes padrões da locomoção, com seus modelos mecânicos. Finalmente, os autores esperam que este texto, em espanhol, seja uma contribuição para docentes e estudantes para a compreensão da locomoção.

Força muscular e habilidade de locomoção em indivíduos pós-acidente vascular encefálico crônico / Fuerza muscular y habilidad de locomoción en individuos post-accidente cerebrovascular crónico / Muscle strength and locomotion ability in individuals with chronic stroke

RESUMO O objetivo do estudo foi verificar se existem diferenças na força muscular dos membros inferiores (MMII) e na habilidade de locomoção de indivíduos pós-acidente vascular encefálico (AVE) crônico, classificados como deambuladores comunitários ou não comunitários. Foi realizado um estudo transversal em 60 indivíduos pós-AVE crônico, divididos em deambuladores comunitários (n=33) e não comunitários (n=27) pela velocidade de marcha. A força muscular de sete grupos musculares bilaterais de MMII foi avaliada por meio do teste do esfigmomanômetro modificado e habilidade de locomoção pelo ABILOCO. Estatísticas descritivas foram utilizadas para caracterizar a amostra, e o teste t de Student para amostras independentes, a fim de comparar os dois grupos de indivíduos pós-AVE. Observou-se que os deambuladores comunitários apresentaram maiores valores de força muscular para a maioria dos grupos musculares de MMII (−0,973≥t≥−3,189; p≤0,04), e na habilidade de locomoção (t=−2,841; p=0,006). Os indivíduos pós-AVE crônico deambuladores comunitários possuem maior força muscular de MMII e mais habilidade de locomoção em comparação aos deambuladores não comunitários. Sugere-se que a avaliação fisioterapêutica de indivíduos pós-AVE inclua, além da mensuração da força muscular de MMII e seu tratamento, a mensuração da percepção da habilidade de locomoção, para análises da evolução do paciente e da eficácia da conduta terapêutica.

RESUMEN El objetivo del estudio fue verificar si existen diferencias en la fuerza muscular de los miembros inferiores (MMII) y en la habilidad de locomoción de individuos post-accidente cerebrovascular encefálico (ACV) crónico, clasificados como deambuladores comunitarios o no comunitarios. Se realizó un estudio transversal en 60 individuos post-ACV crónico, divididos en deambuladores comunitarios (n = 33) y no comunitarios (n = 27) por la velocidad de marcha. La fuerza muscular de siete grupos musculares bilaterales de MMII fue evaluada por medio de la prueba del esfigmomanómetro modificado, y la habilidad de locomoción por el ABILOCO. Las estadísticas descriptivas se utilizaron para caracterizar la muestra, y la prueba t de Student para muestras independientes con el fin de comparar los dos grupos de sujetos post-ACV. Se observó que los deambuladores comunitarios presentaron mayores valores de fuerza muscular para la mayoría de los grupos musculares de MMII (−0,973≥t≥−3,189; p≤0,04), y en la habilidad de locomoción (t=−2,841; p=0,006). Los individuos post-ACV crónico deambuladores comunitarios poseen mayor fuerza muscular de MMII y más habilidad de locomoción en comparación a los deambuladores no comunitarios. Se sugiere que la evaluación fisioterapéutica de individuos post-ACV incluya, además de la medición de la fuerza muscular de MMII y su tratamiento, la medición de la percepción de la habilidad de locomoción, para análisis de la evolución del paciente y de la eficacia de la conducta terapéutica.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to verify if there are differences in the lower-limb muscle strength (LL) and in the locomotion ability among post-stroke patients classified as community or non-community ambulators. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 60 post-chronic stroke subjects, divided into community (n=33) and non-community (n=27) ambulators by gait speed. The muscle strength of seven bilateral muscle groups of LL was evaluated through the modified sphygmomanometer test and locomotion ability through ABILOCO. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the sample, and Student's t-test was used for independent samples to compare the two groups of post-stroke individuals. We observed that community ambulators had higher values of muscle strength for most muscle groups of LL (−0.973≥t≥3.189; p≤0.04), and in the locomotion ability (t=−2.841; p=0.006). Community ambulators showed higher LL muscle strength and better locomotion ability compared with non-community ambulators. Physiotherapeutic evaluation of post-stroke individuals should include, besides the measurement of LL muscle strength and its treatment, the measurement of the perception of locomotion ability to analyze the evolution of the patient and the efficacy of the therapeutic behavior.

Are cursorial birds good kinematic models of non-avian theropods? / ¿Son los pájaros corredores buenos modelos cinemáticos de terópodos no aviares?

Determining kinematics of hindlimbs of theropod dinosaurs has been a challenge. Since cursorial birds are phylogenetically closest to theropod dinosaurs they are commonly used as a kinematic model of theropod dinosaur locomotion. Using a comparative biomechanical approach, we found that cursorial birds have a different morphology of legs than non avian theropodos and that appears to be that felines and ungulates share more morphological properties in the hindlimbs with theropod dinosaurs than cursorial birds. We calculated the ratio between the lower leg and the femur, and the relative length of the tibia and the metatarsus with respect to the length of the femur in cursorial birds, as well as felines, ungulates and non-avian theropods. We found that as the length of the femur increases, the length of the lower leg increases similarly in felines, ungulates and non-avian theropods. On the other hand, existing and extinct cursorial birds did not follow this pattern. This observation suggests that the hindlimb of cursorial birds are not well suited to serve as kinematic models for hindlimb of extinct theropod dinosaur locomotion.

Determinar la cinemática de los miembros pelvianos de los dinosaurios terópodos ha sido un desafío. Dado que las aves corredoras son filogenéticamente más cercanas a los dinosaurios terópodos, son comúnmente utilizadas como modelo cinemático de la locomoción del dinosaurio terópodo. Usando un enfoque biomecánico comparativo, encontramos que las aves corredoras tienen una morfología de pies diferente a la de los terópodos no aviares y parece ser que los felinos y los ungulados comparten más propiedades morfológicas en los pies con los dinosaurios terópodos que las aves corredoras. Calculamos la proporción entre la parte inferior de la pierna y el fémur, y la longitud relativa de la tibia y el metatarso con respecto a la longitud del fémur en aves corredoras, así como en los terópodos no aviares y ungulados. Encontramos que a medida que aumenta la longitud del fémur, la longitud de la parte inferior de la pierna aumenta de manera similar en los terópodos, los ungulados y los terópodos no aviares. Por otro lado, las aves corredoras existentes y extintas no siguieron este patrón. Esta observación sugiere que el miembro pelviano de las aves corredoras no es adecuada para servir como modelos cinemáticos de locomoción del miembro pelviano del dinosaurio terópodo extinto.

Instrumento de evaluación para el desarrollo en edades tempranas de Frugone y Miño / Assessment instrument for early development of Frugone & Miño

OBJETIVO: Proponer una batería para evaluar el desarrollo motor para estudiantes de primer ciclo básico. METODOLOGÍA: se evaluó una muestra de 190 estudiantes, pertenecientes a tres establecimientos educacionales de la ciudad de Talca, Chile. El rango de edad oscila entre los 5 y 9 años de edad. RESULTADOS: El instrumento evidenció valores aceptables confiabilidad y consistencia interna (Alpha de Cronbach 0,829) Los puntos de corte adoptados son: p<33 Inicial, ≥p33 a p66 Elemental y ≥p66 maduro. Los resultados demuestran que no existen diferencias entre ambos géneros en relación a las habilidades motrices básicas de locomoción, manipulación y equilibrio. CONCLUSIÓN: test de Frugone y Miño es un instrumento fiable para contribuir de forma segura y confiada en la evaluación de los niveles del desarrollo motor en estudiantes escolarizados de primer ciclo básico, lo que sugiere su uso y aplicación en el colegio para monitorizar el progreso del desempeño motor de los alumnos de ambos sexos.

OBJECTIVE: Propose a cognitive assessment (battery) to evaluate the motor development of students during the first basic cycle. METHODOLOGY: A sample of 190 students was evaluated, belonging to three educational establishments in the city of Talca, Chile. The age range varied between 5 and 9 years of age. RESULTS: The instrument showed acceptable values, reliability and internal consistency (Cronbach's Alpha 0.829). The cutting points adopted are: p <33 Initial, ≥p33 to p66 Elemental and ≥p66 mature. CONCLUSION: Frugone & Miño test is a reliable instrument to safely and confidently contribute to the evaluation of the motor development levels in students enrolled in the first basic cycle, which suggests its use and application in school to monitor the progress of the motor performance of students from both sexes. The results show that there are no differences between both genders in relation to the basic motor skills of locomotion, manipulation and balance.

Leisure-Time Physical Activity, but not Commuting Physical Activity, is Associated with Cardiovascular Risk among ELSA-Brasil Participants / Atividade Física no Tempo Livre, porém não Atividade Física no Deslocamento, está Associada com Risco Cardiovascular em Participantes do ELSA-Brasil

Abstract Background: Despite reports in the literature that both leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and commuting physical activity (CPA) can promote health benefits, the literature lacks studies comparing the associations of these domains of physical activity with cardiovascular risk scores. Objective: To investigate the association between LTPA and CPA with different cardiovascular risk scores in the cohort of the Longitudinal Study of Adult Health ELSA-Brasil. Methods: Cross-sectional study with data from 13,721 participants of both genders, aged 35-74 years, free of cardiovascular disease, from ELSA Brazil. Physical activity was measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Five cardiovascular risk scores were used: Framingham score - coronary heart disease (cholesterol); Framingham score - coronary heart disease (LDL-C); Framingham score - cardiovascular disease (cholesterol); Framingham score - cardiovascular disease (body mass index, BMI); and pooled cohort equations for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Associations adjusted for confounding variables between physical activity and different cardiovascular risk scores were analyzed by logistic regression. Confidence interval of 95% (95%CI) was considered. Results: LTPA is inversely associated with almost all cardiovascular risk scores analyzed, while CPA shows no statistically significant association with any of them. Dose-response effect in association between LTPA and cardiovascular risk scores was also found, especially in men. Conclusions: LTPA was shown to be associated with the cardiovascular risk scores analyzed, but CPA not. The amount of physical activity (duration and intensity) was more significantly associated, especially in men, with cardiovascular risk scores in ELSA-Brasil.

Resumo Fundamento: Apesar dos relatos na literatura de que tanto a atividade física no tempo livre (AFTL) quanto a atividade física no deslocamento (AFDESL) promovem benefícios à saúde, estudos comparando a associação desses domínios da atividade física com escores de risco cardiovascular são escassos. Objetivo: Verificar a associação entre AFTL e AFDESL com escores de risco cardiovascular na coorte Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto (ELSA-Brasil). Métodos: Estudo transversal com dados da linha de base de 13.721 participantes de ambos os sexos, com idades entre 35 e 74 anos, livres de doenças cardiovasculares, do ELSA-Brasil. A atividade física foi mensurada por meio do International Physical Activity Questionnary (IPAQ). Foram utilizados cinco escores de risco cardiovascular: escore de Framingham - doença coronariana (colesterol); escore de Framingham - doença coronariana (lipoproteína de baixa densidade - LDL-C); escore de Framingham - doença cardiovascular (colesterol); escore de Framingham - doença cardiovascular (índice de massa corpórea - IMC); e equações de coorte agrupadas para doença cardiovascular aterosclerótica. As associações ajustadas por variáveis de confundimento foram analisadas por meio de regressão logística. Utilizou-se intervalo de confiança de 95% (IC95%). Resultados: Com quase todos os escores de risco cardiovascular analisados, a AFTL apresenta-se inversamente associada, enquanto a AFDESL não demonstra associação estatisticamente significante com nenhum deles. Observou-se, ainda, a existência de efeito dose-resposta na associação entre AFTL e escores de risco cardiovascular principalmente em homens. Conclusões: A AFTL, porém não a AFDESL, apresenta associação com os escores de risco cardiovascular analisados. A maior quantidade de atividade física (duração e intensidade) está associada de forma mais significativa, principalmente em homens, aos escores de risco cardiovascular em participantes da coorte ELSA-Brasil. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2017; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Standardization of a spinal cord lesion model and neurologic evaluation using mice

OBJECTIVE: To standardize a spinal cord lesion mouse model. METHODS: Thirty BALB/c mice were divided into five groups: four experimental groups and one control group (sham). The experimental groups were subjected to spinal cord lesion by a weight drop from different heights after laminectomy whereas the sham group only underwent laminectomy. Mice were observed for six weeks, and functional behavior scales were applied. The mice were then euthanized, and histological investigations were performed to confirm and score spinal cord lesion. The findings were evaluated to prove whether the method of administering spinal cord lesion was effective and different among the groups. Additionally, we correlated the results of the functional scales with the results from the histology evaluations to identify which scale is more reliable. RESULTS: One mouse presented autophagia, and six mice died during the experiment. Because four of the mice that died were in Group 5, Group 5 was excluded from the study. All the functional scales assessed proved to be significantly different from each other, and mice presented functional evolution during the experiment. Spinal cord lesion was confirmed by histology, and the results showed a high correlation between the Basso, Beattie, Bresnahan Locomotor Rating Scale and the Basso Mouse Scale. The mouse function scale showed a moderate to high correlation with the histological findings, and the horizontal ladder test had a high correlation with neurologic degeneration but no correlation with the other histological parameters evaluated. CONCLUSION: This spinal cord lesion mouse model proved to be effective and reliable with exception of lesions caused by a 10-g drop from 50 mm, which resulted in unacceptable mortality. The Basso, Beattie, Bresnahan Locomotor Rating Scale and Basso Mouse Scale are the most reliable functional assessments, and but the horizontal ladder test is not recommended.

The preventive effects of ascorbic acid supplementation on locomotor and acetylcholinesterase activity in an animal model of schizophrenia induced by ketamine

ABSTRACT Studies have shown that schizophrenic patients seem to have nutritional deficiencies. Ascorbic acid (AA) has an important antioxidant effect and neuromodulatory properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of AA on locomotor activity and the acetylcholinesterase activity (AChE) in an animal model of schizophrenia (SZ). Rats were supplemented with AA (0.1, 1, or 10 mg/kg), or water for 14 days (gavage). Between the 9th and 15th days, the animals received Ketamine (Ket) (25 mg/kg) or saline (i.p). After the last administration (30 min) rats were subjected to the behavioral test. Brain structures were dissected for biochemical analysis. There was a significant increase in the locomotor activity in Ket treated. AA prevented the hyperlocomotion induced by ket. Ket also showed an increase of AChE activity within the prefrontal cortex and striatum prevented by AA. Our data indicates an effect for AA in preventing alterations induced by Ket in an animal model of SZ, suggesting that it may be an adjuvant approach for the development of new therapeutic strategies within this psychiatric disorder.

A new approach to feed frequency studies and protein intake regulation in juvenile pirarucu

ABSTRACT This study aimed to investigate pirarucu's (Arapaima gigas) ability to trigger a self-feeding system to regulate protein intake between two standard diets that contained 39% and 49% of crude protein. The same system allowed the evaluation of daily feeding and locomotor activity rhythms. Eighteen fish (654.44±26.85g) were distributed into six 250 L tanks (3 fish/tank). Fish had free access to both diets (39% vs. 49% protein) by feeders (2 per tank), adapted to be activated by fish themselves. This system was connected to a computer system. After an adaptation period, fish learned to activate feeders and the mean food intake recorded was 2.14% of their body weight on a daily basis. Fish showed feeding (72.48%) and locomotor (72.49%) activity predominantly during the daytime, and daily variations of choice between diets, but fixed a protein intake feeding target at 44.53%. These results should be considered when discussing feeding behavior, feeding schedules and diet intake regulations.

Locomotive syndrome in the elderly: translation, cultural adaptation, and Brazilian validation of the tool 25-Question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale / Síndrome locomotora em idosos: tradução, adaptação cultural e validação brasileira do instrumento 25-Question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale

ABSTRACT Objective: The term Locomotive Syndrome refers to conditions in which the elderly are at high risk of inability to ambulate due to problems in locomotor system. For Locomotive Syndrome screening, the 25-Question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale was created. The objective here was to translate, adapt culturally to Brazil, and study the psychometric properties of 25-Question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale. Method: The translation and cultural adaptation of 25-Question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale were carried out, thus resulting in GLFS 25-P, whose psychometric properties were analyzed in a sample of 100 elderly subjects. Sociodemographic data on pain, falls, self-perceived health and basic and instrumental functionalities were determined. GLFS 25-P was applied three times: in one same day by two interviewers, and after 15 days, again by the first interviewer. Result: GLFS 25-P showed a high internal consistency value according to Cronbach's alpha coefficient (0.942), and excellent reproducibility, according to intraclass correlation, with interobserver and intraobserver values of 97.6% and 98.4%, respectively (p < 0.01). Agreements for each item of the instrument were considerable (between 0.248 and 0.673), according to Kappa statistic. In its validation, according to the Pearson's coefficient, regular and good correlations were obtained for the basic (BADL) and instrumental (IADL) activities of daily living, respectively (p < 0.01). Statistically significant associations with chronic pain (p < 0.001), falls (p = 0.02) and self-perceived health (p < 0.001) were found. A multivariate analysis showed a significantly higher risk of Locomotive Syndrome in the presence of chronic pain (OR 15.92, 95% CI 3.08–82.27) and with a worse self-perceived health (OR 0.23, 95% CI 0.07–0.79). Conclusion: GLFS 25-P proved to be a reliable and valid tool in Locomotive Syndrome screening for the elderly population.

RESUMO Objetivo: O termo síndrome locomotora (SL) designa condições nas quais os idosos apresentam alto risco de incapacidade para deambulação em decorrência de problemas em órgãos locomotores. Para seu rastreio foi criado o 25-Question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale (GLFS-25). Objetivou-se aqui, traduzir, adaptar transculturalmente para o Brasil e estudar as propriedades psicométricas do GLFS-25. Método: Feitas tradução e adaptação transcultural do GLFS-25 que originaram o GLFS 25-P, cujas propriedades psicométricas foram analisadas numa amostra de 100 idosos. Apurados dados sociodemográficos relativos a dor, queda, autopercepção da saúde e funcionalidades básica e instrumental. O GLFS 25-P foi aplicado em três momentos: num mesmo dia por dois entrevistadores e após 15 dias novamente pelo primeiro entrevistador. Resultado: O GLFS 25-P apresentou alto valor de consistência interna, segundo o coeficiente Alfa de Cronbach (0,942); e reprodutibilidade ótima, segundo a correlação intraclasses: valores de 97,6% e 98,4%, interobservador e intraobservador, respectivamente (p < 0,01). As concordâncias para cada item do instrumento foram consideráveis (entre 0,248 e 0,673), segundo a estatística Kappa. Na validação, segundo o coeficiente de Pearson, foram obtidas correlações regular e boa para as atividades de vida diária básicas (AVDB) e instrumentais (AIVD), respectivamente (p < 0,01). Encontradas associações estatisticamente significantes com dor crônica (p < 0,001), queda (p = 0,02) e autopercepção de saúde (p < 0,001). A análise multivariada evidenciou risco de SL significativamente maior na presença de dor crônica (OR 15,92, IC 95% 3,08-82,27) e pior autopercepção de saúde (OR 0,23, IC 95% 0,07-0,79). Conclusão: O GLFS 25-P demonstrou ser confiável e válido no rastreio da SL em idosos.

Candesartan, rather than losartan, improves motor dysfunction in thioacetamide-induced chronic liver failure in rats

Minimal hepatic encephalopathy is more common than the acute syndrome. Losartan, the first angiotensin-II receptor blocker (ARB), and candesartan, another widely-used ARB, have protected against developing fibrogenesis, but there is no clear data about their curative antifibrotic effects. The current study was designed to examine their effects in an already-established model of hepatic fibrosis and also their effects on the associated motor dysfunction. Low-grade chronic liver failure (CLF) was induced in 3-month old Sprague-Dawley male rats using thioacetamide (TAA, 50 mg·kg−1·day−1) intraperitoneally for 2 weeks. The TAA-CLF rats were randomly divided into five groups (n=8) treated orally for 14 days (mg·kg−1·day−1) as follows: TAA (distilled water), losartan (5 and 10 mg/kg), and candesartan (0.1 and 0.3 mg/kg). Rats were tested for rotarod and open-field tests. Serum and hepatic biochemical markers, and hepatic histopathological changes were evaluated by H&E and Masson's staining. The TAA-CLF rats showed significant increases of hepatic malondialdehyde, hepatic expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and serum ammonia, alanine aminotransferase, γ-glutamyl transferase, TNF-α, and malondialdehyde levels as well as significant decreases of hepatic and serum glutathione levels. All treatments significantly reversed these changes. The histopathological changes were moderate in losartan-5 and candesartan-0.1 groups and mild in losartan-10 and candesartan-0.3 groups. Only candesartan significantly improved TAA-induced motor dysfunction. In conclusion, therapeutic antifibrotic effects of losartan and candesartan in thioacetamide-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats are possibly through angiotensin-II receptor blocking, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. Improved motor dysfunction by candesartan could be attributed to better brain penetration and slower "off-rate" from angiotensin-II receptors. Clinical trials are recommended.

Impacto do programa de fisioterapia aquática na mobilidade funcional de idosos da comunidade / Impact of the aquatic physiotherapy program on the functional mobility of the older people in the community / Impacto del programa de fisioterapia acuática en la movilidad funcional de ancianos de la comunidad

O objetivo foi verificar a influência de um programa de fisioterapia aquática na mobilidade funcional em idosos. Trata-se de um estudo quase experimental, do tipo antes e depois, com 26 voluntários idosos. Observou-se melhora significativa do equilíbrio dinâmico, avaliado pelo teste TUG, quando comparados os momentos pré- de 12,04 (9,58-20,79) segundos para 9,58 (7,02-17,86) segundos (p=0,04). Conclui-se que o programa de fisioterapia aquática promoveu melhora do equilíbrio dinâmico nos idosos envolvidos neste estudo.

The objective was to verify the influence of a program of aquatic physiotherapy on functional mobility in the older people. This is an almost experimental, before-and-after study of 26 older people volunteers. There was a significant improvement in the dynamic balance, measured by the TUG test, when the pre-moments of 12.04 (9.58-20.79) seconds were compared to 9.58 (7.02-17.86) seconds (p = 0.04). It is concluded that the aquatic physiotherapy program promoted improvement of the dynamic balance in the older people involved in this study.

El objetivo fue verificar la influencia de un programa de fisioterapia acuática en la movilidad funcional en ancianos. Se trata de un estudio casi experimental, del tipo antes y después, con 26 voluntarios ancianos. Se observó una mejora significativa del equilibrio dinámico, evaluado por la prueba TUG, cuando comparados los momentos pre de 12,04 (9,58-20,79) segundos a 9,58 (7,02-17,86) segundos (p = 0,04). Se concluye que el programa de fisioterapia acuática promovió una mejora del equilibrio dinámico en los ancianos involucrados en este estudio.

Peak expiratory flow mediates the relationship between handgrip strength and timed up and go performance in elderly women, but not men

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to verify if there is sex difference in the associations among handgrip strength, peak expiratory flow (PEF) and timed up and go (TUG) test results. METHODS: The sample included 288 consecutive elderly men (n=93) and women (n=195). Functional capacity was measured using the TUG test, and muscle strength was measured based on handgrip. Moreover, as a measure of current health status, PEF was evaluated. Linear regression procedures were performed to analyze the relationships between handgrip and both PEF and TUG test results, with adjustment for confounders, and to identify the possible mediating role of PEF in the association between handgrip strength and TUG test results. RESULTS: In men, handgrip strength was associated with both PEF and TUG performance (p<0.01). After adjustment for PEF, the relationship between handgrip strength and TUG performance remained significant. In women, handgrip strength was also associated with both PEF and TUG performance (p<0.01). However, after adjustment for PEF, the relationship between handgrip strength and TUG performance was no longer significant. CONCLUSION: Mobility in the elderly is sex dependent. In particular, PEF mediates the relationship between handgrip strength and TUG performance in women, but not in men.

Movement anatomy of the gluteal region and thigh of the giant anteater Myrmecophaga tridactyla (Myrmecophagidae: Pilosa) / Anatomia do movimento da região glútea e coxa de Myrmecophaga tridactyla tamanduá-bandeira (Myrmecophagidae: pilosa)

Locomotion reveals the displacement and behavior manner of the species in their daily needs. According to different needs of the several species, different locomotor patterns are adopted. The shapes and attachment points of muscles are important determinants of the movements performed and consequently, the locomotion and motion patterns of living beings. It was aimed to associate anatomical, kinesiology and biomechanics aspects of the gluteal region and thigh of the giant anteater to its moving characteristics and locomotor habits. It was used three specimens of Myrmecophaga tridactyla, settled in formaldehyde aqueous solution at 10% and subsequently, dissected using usual techniques in gross anatomy. The morphological characteristics of the gluteal region and thigh that influence the patterns of movement and locomotion of animals, were analyzed and discussed in light of literature. All muscles of the gluteal region and thigh of giant anteater show parallel arrangement of the muscular fibers, being flat or fusiform. These muscles are formed in the joint which the interpotent type biolever act. These morphological characteristics indicate a greater predominance of amplitude and movement speed at the expense of strength. On the other hand, features such as osteometric index and the observation of giant anteater motion indicate the opposite, what reflects this animal lack of expertise in locomotor habits and shows the need of future realization of more detailed studies in this subject.(AU)

A locomoção revela o modo de deslocamento e comportamento das espécies nas suas necessidades diárias. De acordo com as diferentes necessidades das diversas espécies, diferentes padrões locomotores são adotados. As formas e pontos de fixação dos músculos são importantes determinantes dos movimentos realizados e, por conseguinte, dos padrões de locomoção e movimentação dos seres vivos. Objetivou-se associar aspectos anatômicos, cinesiológicos e biomecânicos da região glútea e coxa do tamanduá bandeira às suas características de movimentação e hábitos locomotores. Utilizaram-se três espécimes de Myrmecophaga tridactyla, fixados em solução aquosa de formaldeído a 10% e posteriormente, dissecados usando as técnicas usuais em anatomia macroscópica. As características morfológicas da região glútea e coxa que influenciam os padrões de movimento e locomoção dos animais foram analisadas e discutidas à luz da literatura. Todos os músculos da região glútea e coxa do tamanduá bandeira apresentam disposição paralela das fibras musculares, sendo planos ou fusiformes. Esses músculos formam nas articulações sobre as quais agem bioalavancas do tipo interpotente. Essas características morfológicas indicam maior predominância de amplitude e velocidade de movimento em detrimento da força. Por outro lado, características como os índices osteométricos e a observação da movimentação do tamanduá bandeira indicam o oposto, o que reflete a falta de especialização desse animal quanto aos hábitos locomotores e sinaliza a necessidade da realização futura de estudos mais detalhados a esse respeito.(AU)

Involvement of the TRPV1 channel in the modulation of spontaneous locomotor activity, physical performance and physical exercise-induced physiological responses

Physical exercise triggers coordinated physiological responses to meet the augmented metabolic demand of contracting muscles. To provide adequate responses, the brain must receive sensory information about the physiological status of peripheral tissues and organs, such as changes in osmolality, temperature and pH. Most of the receptors involved in these afferent pathways express ion channels, including transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, which are usually activated by more than one type of stimulus and are therefore considered polymodal receptors. Among these TRP channels, the TRPV1 channel (transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 or capsaicin receptor) has well-documented functions in the modulation of pain sensation and thermoregulatory responses. However, the TRPV1 channel is also expressed in non-neural tissues, suggesting that this channel may perform a broad range of functions. In this review, we first present a brief overview of the available tools for studying the physiological roles of the TRPV1 channel. Then, we present the relationship between the TRPV1 channel and spontaneous locomotor activity, physical performance, and modulation of several physiological responses, including water and electrolyte balance, muscle hypertrophy, and metabolic, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and inflammatory responses. Altogether, the data presented herein indicate that the TPRV1 channel modulates many physiological functions other than nociception and thermoregulation. In addition, these data open new possibilities for investigating the role of this channel in the acute effects induced by a single bout of physical exercise and in the chronic effects induced by physical training.

Olfactory bulb transplantation in complete spinal cord injury: axonal regeneration and locomotor recovery / Transplante de bulbo olfatório em lesão medular completa: regeneração axonal e recuperação locomotora / Trasplante de bulbo olfatorio en lesiones medulares completas: regeneración axonal y recuperación locomotora

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether the intervention in rats is effective in terms of spinal cord regeneration and locomotor recovery, in order to obtain sufficient evidence to apply the therapy in humans. METHODS: a randomized, controlled, experimental, prospective, randomized trial was conducted, with a sample of 15 adult female Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 250 gr. They were divided into three equal groups, and trained for 2 weeks based on Pavlov's classical conditioning method, to strengthen the muscles of the 4 legs, stimulate the rats mentally, and keep them healthy for the surgery. RESULTS: It was observed that implantation of these cells into the site of injury may be beneficial to the process of spinal cord regeneration after spinal trauma, to mediate secretion of neurotrophic and neuroprotective chemokines, and that the OECs have the ability to bridge the repair site and decrease the formation of gliosis, creating a favorable environment for axonal regeneration. CONCLUSION: It is emphasized that the olfactory ensheathing glial cells possess unique regenerative properties; however, it was not until recently that the activity of promoting central nervous system regeneration was recognized. .

OBJETIVOS: Verificar se intervenção em ratos tem eficácia comprovada na regeneração medular e na recuperação locomotora, visando obter evidência suficiente para aplicar a terapia ao ser humano. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo experimental controlado e randomizado, com amostra de 15 ratas Sprague-Dawley adultas pesando 250 gramas. Os indivíduos foram divididos em três grupos que foram treinados durante 2 semanas pelo método de Pavlov de condicionamento clássico, de modo a fortalecer os músculos das quatro patas, estimular os animais mentalmente e mantê-los saudáveis para a cirurgia. RESULTADOS: Constatou-se que a implantação dessas células no local da lesão pode ser benéfica para o processo de regeneração medular depois do trauma, visto que medeia secreção de quimiocinas neurotróficas e neuroprotetoras; da mesma maneira que as células olfatórias da glia (OEC) têm a capacidade de fazer ponto no local do reparo e de diminuir a formação de gliose, criando ambiente propício para a regeneração axonal. CONCLUSÃO: Cabe destacar que as células olfatórias da glia têm propriedades regeneradoras únicas, porém, apenas recentemente sua atividade promotora de regeneração do sistema nervoso central foi reconhecida. .

OBJETIVOS: Si la intervención en ratas prueba su efectividad respecto a la regeneración medular y la recuperación locomotora con el fin de obtener evidencia suficiente para aplicar la terapia en humanos. MÉTODOS: Se realizóun estudio prospectivo experimental controlado aleatorizado, donde se incluyóuna muestra de 15 ratas adultas hembras Sprague-Dawley de 250 gr. Se dividieron por tercias las cuales se entrenaron durante 2 semanas en base al método de Pavlov de condicionamiento clásico con el fin de fortalecer los músculos de las 4 patas, estimularlas anímicamente y mantenerlas saludables para el acto quirúrgico. RESULTADOS: Se ha observado que el implante de estas células en el sitio de la lesión, puede resultar benéfico para el proceso de regeneración medular después del trauma al mediar la secreción de quimiocinas neurotróficas y neuroprotectoras, asímismo las OECs poseen la habilidad de puentear el sitio de reparación y disminuir la formación de gliosis creando un ambiente permisivo para la regeneración axonal. CONCLUSIÓN: Cabe destacar que las células de la glia olfatoria poseen propiedades regeneradoras únicas, sin embargo no fue sino hasta hace poco que su actividad promotora de regeneración del sistema nervioso central se reconoció. .

Possíveis alterações no mecanismo minimizador de energia da caminhada em decorrência da dor lombar crônica - revisão de literatura / Possible changes in energy-minimizer mechanisms of locomotion due to chronic low back pain - a literature review

Um dos objetivos da marcha é deslocar o corpo no espaço da forma mais econômica possível. Porém, pouco se sabe como os aspectos mecânicos e energéticos da caminhada são afetados pela dor lombar. Ainda, caso haja prejuízos, é pequeno o conhecimento de como as características mecânicas e energéticas da caminhada se manifestam nas atividades funcionais, principalmente nos mecanismos minimizadores de energia da locomoção. Este estudo teve por objetivos: a) descrever os principais mecanismos minimizadores de energia da locomoção; e b) verificar se há indicativos de prejuízos nas características mecânicas e energéticas da caminhada decorrentes da dor lombar crônica (DLC) que possam comprometer os mecanismos minimizadores. Estudo caracterizado como revisão narrativa de literatura. A principal teoria que explica a minimização do dispêndio energético durante a caminhada é a do pêndulo invertido pelo qual o mecanismo minimizador converte energia cinética em energia potencial do centro de massa e vice-versa durante a passada. Esse mecanismo é fortemente influenciado por parâmetros espaços-temporais da marcha, tais como comprimento de passo e velocidade preferida da caminhada, que, por sua vez, podem estar severamente alterados em pacientes com dor lombar crônica. Contudo ainda há muito que se entender sobre os efeitos da dor lombar crônica sobre a capacidade do indivíduo de praticar uma marcha econômica, pois os prejuízos funcionais podem comprometer características mecânicas e energéticas dessa modalidade de marcha e torná-la mais dispendiosa. Desta forma, há indicativos de que tais mudanças funcionais possam comprometer os mecanismos minimizadores de energia.

One goal of the locomotion is to move the body in the space at the most economical way possible. However, little is known about the mechanical and energetic aspects of locomotion that are affected by low back pain. And in case of occurring some damage, little is known about how the mechanical and energetic characteristics of the locomotion are manifested in functional activities, especially with respect to the energy-minimizer mechanisms during locomotion. This study aimed: a) to describe the main energy-minimizer mechanisms of locomotion; b) to check if there are signs of damage on the mechanical and energetic characteristics of the locomotion due to chronic low back pain (CLBP) which may endanger the energy-minimizer mechanisms. This study is characterized as a narrative literature review. The main theory that explains the minimization of energy expenditure during the locomotion is the inverted pendulum mechanism, by which the energy-minimizer mechanism converts kinetic energy into potential energy of the center of mass and vice-versa during the step. This mechanism is strongly influenced by spatio-temporal gait (locomotion) parameters such as step length and preferred walking speed, which, in turn, may be severely altered in patients with chronic low back pain. However, much remains to be understood about the effects of chronic low back pain on the individual's ability to practice an economic locomotion, because functional impairment may compromise the mechanical and energetic characteristics of this type of gait, making it more costly. Thus, there are indications that such changes may compromise the functional energy-minimizer mechanisms.

Estabilidade locomotora durante a condução de um cão / Locomotion stability while dog walking / La estabilidad locomotora durante la conducción de un perro

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a influência da percepção háptica na estabilidade locomotora do ser humano durante a condução de um cão com uma guia. Adultos (n=14), com e sem restrição da visão, andaram sobre uma trave de equilíbrio sozinhos, ou, com uma guia, andaram conduzindo um cão sobre um banco estreito ao lado. Quando os participantes caminharam conduzindo o cão, privados da visão, o desempenho locomotor-avaliado através da duração do deslocamento total, da duração das passadas, das fases de duplo suporte e balanço, do comprimento e velocidade das passadas, assim como da variabilidade da fase relativa-melhorou significativamente (p < 0,05) em relação ao desempenho locomotor na condição sem o cão. Nas condições com visão, conduzir o cão não resultou em mudanças nestas variáveis. Concluímos que estes indivíduos foram capazes de utilizar a guia do cão para detectar propriedades hápticas com propósito de melhorar a estabilidade na locomoção.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate how walking a dog on a leash influenced haptic perception and stability during human locomotion. Fourteen adults, with and without sight restriction, walked on a narrow balance beam by themselves, or holding a leash attached to a dog that walked on a parallel narrow bench. The performance of participants who walked with the dog, but blindfolded, significantly (p < 0.05) improved as compared to the condition without the dog. Their locomotion performance was assessed via the duration of the total displacement on the balance beam, durations of the double support phase, swing phase, stepping cycle, stepping length, and linear velocity, as well as variability of the inter-limb relative phase. With vision, these parameters were not affected by the presence of the dog. We conclude that these adults were able to use the dog's leash to detect haptic properties in order to achieve postural control (e.g., stability in speed performance) while walking.

El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la influencia de la percepción háptica en la estabilidad del aparato locomotor humano, mientras que la conducción de un perro con una guía. Los adultos (n = 14), con y sin restricción de la visión, caminaron sobre una barra de equilibrio solo, o simultáneamente con el perro en la guia en un banco al lado. Cuando participantes caminaron con el perro, privados de vista, el rendimiento locomotor-evaluado por la longitud total de desplazamiento, la longitud de los pasos, las fases de doble apoyo e impulsión, la longitud y la velocidad del pasado, así como la variabilidad de la fase relativa-mejoró significativamente (p < 0.05) en comparación con el rendimiento locomotor en la condición sin el perro. En las condiciones con la visión, impulsar el perro no dio lugar a cambios en estas variables. Llegamos a la conclusión de que estos individuos fueron capaces de utilizar la guía del perro para detectar propiedades hápticas con el propósito de mejorar la estabilidad en la locomoción.

Influência do gradiente de inclinação na pronação subtalar em corrida submáxima / Influence of slope on subtalar pronation in submaximal running performance

Objetivo: Investigar a influência do gradiente de inclinação na máxima pronação subtalar em velocidade submáxima de corrida. Métodos: dezesseis corredores de rendimento participaram de um teste de Economia de Corrida (ECO) em esteira rolante composto de quatro gradientes de inclinação (+1%, +5%, +10%, +15%). Para cada gradiente de inclinação foi realizada uma corrida de 4 minutos, sem intervalo entre os mesmos, com proposito de mensurar as magnitudes das variáveis cinemáticas através de uma filmadora de alta frequência, posicionada no plano frontal-posterior do indivíduo. Resultados: Não foram verificadas diferenças significativas nos valores de máxima pronação subtalar entre as pernas e entre os gradientes de inclinação adotados, demonstrando que prováveis alterações na técnica de corrida, resultantes das mudanças no gradiente de inclinação, não são capazes de modificar o comportamento da máxima pronação subtalar. Conclusão: A pronação subtalar independe do gradiente de inclinação, podendo esta ser influenciada por outras variáveis intervenientes.Nível de Evidência II, Estudo Diagnóstico.

Objective: To investigate the slope influence on the maximal sub-talar pronation in submaximal running speeds. Methods: sixteen endurance runners participated of a running economy (RE) test in a treadmill with different slopes (+1%, +5%, +10%, +15%). For each slope a 4-minute run was performed with no rest break for the purpose of measuring the magnitude of kinematic variables by means of a high frequency video camera positioned in a frontal-posterior plane of the individual. Results: No significant differences were verified in maximal subtalar pronation between legs and between the slopes adopted, showing that changes of running technique due to modifications of slope aren’t enough to modify the behavior of maximum subtalar pronation. Conclusion: the subtalar pronation is independent of slope, which may be influenced by other intervening variables. Level of Evidence II, Diagnostic Study.