"Encephalapp Stroop": Validity and reliability of a smartphone app to measure cognitive performance in physically active subjects.

This study aimed to analyze the validity and reliability of a smartphone app (i.e., Encephalapp Stroop) to measure cognitive performance. Ten physically active individuals (mean age: 25.2 ± 4.3 years) participated in three laboratory visits. In a randomized sequence, subjects completed cognitive assessments using the app and a computer separately. The response times from 100 measurements for congruent and incongruent stimuli were compared between the two devices (app and computer) using the intraclass correlation coefficient, Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient (r), Cronbach's alpha (α), and Bland-Altman plots. There was excellent agreement between the computerized Stroop and the app version for response times for congruent (ICC = 0.806, p < 0.001; Bland-Altman bias = 41.3 ± 56.4 ms, p < 0.001) and incongruent stimuli (ICC = 0.755, p < 0.001; Bland-Altman bias = 76.4 ± 75.1 ms, p < 0.001). In comparison to the computerized version, the app demonstrated a moderate correlation for response times of congruent (r = 0.678, p < 0.001) and incongruent (r = 0.623, p < 0.001) stimuli. The results of the present study indicate that the response times of congruent and incongruent stimuli can be easily, accurately, and reliably evaluated using a mobile app.

Investigating the Neuroprotective and Cognitive-Enhancing Effects of Bacopa monnieri: A Systematic Review Focused on Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, Mitochondrial Dysfunction, and Apoptosis.

The aging of the global population has increased the prevalence of neurodegenerative conditions. Bacopa monnieri (BM), an herb with active compounds, such as bacosides A and B, betulinic acid, loliolide, asiatic acid, and quercetin, demonstrates the potential for brain health. Limited research has been conducted on the therapeutic applications of BM in neurodegenerative conditions. This systematic review aims to project BM's beneficial role in brain disorders. BM has anti-apoptotic and antioxidant actions and can repair damaged neurons, stimulate kinase activity, restore synaptic function, improve nerve transmission, and increase neuroprotection. The included twenty-two clinical trials demonstrated that BM can reduce Nuclear Factor-κB phosphorylation, improve emotional function, cognitive functions, anhedonia, hyperactivity, sleep routine, depression, attention deficit, learning problems, memory retention, impulsivity, and psychiatric problems. Moreover, BM can reduce the levels of pro-inflammatory biomarkers and oxidative stress. Here, we highlight that BM provides notable therapeutic benefits and can serve as a complementary approach for the care of patients with neurodegenerative conditions associated with brain disorders. This review adds to the growing interest in natural products and their potential therapeutic applications by improving our understanding of the mechanisms underlying cognitive function and neurodegeneration and informing the development of new therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.

The Relative Age Effect on YoungAthletes of Para-Athletics: Birth quartile analysis and performance in individual athletic events / El Efecto de la Edad Relativa en los Atletas Jóvenes de Paratlético: Análisis de cuartil denacimiento y desempeño en eventos atléticos individuales / O Efeito da Idade Relativa em Jovens Atletas de Paraatletismo: Análise do quartil de nascimento e do desempenho em eventos individuais de atletismo

El Efecto de la Edad Relativa (EER) es un fenómeno caracterizado por una sobrerrepresentación significativa de atletas nacidos en los primeros meses del año competitivo en la misma categoría deedad que se ha observado en categorías juveniles de atletismo. Sin embargo, hay una falta de investigación para investigar este fenómeno y su relación con el deporte para, y no está claro si este efectoestá presente en los jóvenes atletas. Por lo tanto, nuestro estudio examinó la existencia de EER en jóvenes atletaspara-atléticos (categorías U16, U18 y U20) y el rendimiento en eventos deportivos individuales según el cuartil denacimiento (Q1, Q2, Q3 yQ4). Las fechas de nacimiento se recogieron de 700 jóvenes atletas masculinos de deportes para que participaran en eventos deportivos individuales entre 2018 y 2019 en las categorías U16, U18 y U20. En resumen, se observó una distribución desigual de las fechas de nacimiento por cuartil cuando un mayor número de jóvenes para-atletas nació en el primer trimestre del año para U16 (χ²3= 18.785; p = .0003; Phi efecto = 0.45), U18 (χ²3= 6.846; p= .05; Phi efecto = 0.17), y U20 (χ²3= 10.156; p = .017; Phiefecto = 0.17). Sin embargo, cuando comparamos el desempeño de los atletas por evento (eventos de atletismo) y por separado por cuartil, no se encontró diferencia significativa (p> .05). En conclusión, nuestro estudio evidenció el papel influyente de laedad relativa en atletismo, pero parece que este fenómeno no está relacionado con el rendimiento en atletismo.(AU)

The Relative Age Effect (RAE) is a phenomenon characterized by a significant over-representation ofathletes born in the first months of the competitive year in the same age category that has been observed in athletics juvenile categories. However, there is a lack of research to investigate this phenomenon and its relationship with para-sport, and it isnot clear whether this effect is present in young para-athletes. Thus, the present study aims to examine the existence of RAE in young para-athletics athletes (U16, U18, and U20 categories) and the performance in individual athletic events according to the birth quartile (Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4). Birth dates were collected from 700 young male athletes from para-sport who participated in individual athletic eventsbetween 2018 and 2019 in the U16, U18, and U20 categories. In summary, unequal distribution of birth dates per quartile was observed where a greater number of young para-athletes was born in the Q1 of the year for U16 (χ²3= 18.785; p = .0003; Phi effect = .45), U18 (χ²3= 6.846; p= .05; Phi effect = .17), and U20 (χ²3= 10.156; p= .017; Phi effect =.17). However,when we compared the performance of the athletes by event (track and field events) and separately by quartile, no significant difference was found (p> .05). In conclusion, our study evidenced the influential role of relative age in track and field para-athletes, but it seems that this phenomenon is not related to performance in track and field events.(AU)

O Efeito da Idade Relativa (EIR) é um fenômeno caracterizado por uma significativa representação de atletas nascidos nos primeiros meses do ano competitivo na mesma faixa etária que tem sido observada em categorias juvenis de atletismo. No entanto, há ainda uma lacuna em termos de investigaçãopara analisar esse fenômeno e sua relação com o para-desporto. Assim, o obejtivo do presente estudo foi analisar a existência de EIR em atletas jovens de para-atletismo (categorias Sub-16, Sub-18 e Sub-20) e sua relação com o desempenho em eventos atléticos individuais de acordo com o quartil de nascimento (Q1, Q2, Q3 e Q4). As datas de nascimento foram recolhidas de 700 jovens atletas do sexo masculino de paradesporto que participaram de eventos de atletismo individuais entre 2018 e 2019 nas categorias Sub-16, Sub-18 e Sub-20. No geral, observou-se uma distribuição desigual das datas de nascimento por quartil, onde um maior número de jovens para-atletas nasceu no Q1 do ano para Sub-16 (χ²3= 18.785; p = .0003; Phi effect = .45), Sub-18 (χ²3= 6.846; p= .05; Phi effect = .17), e Sub-20 (χ²3= 10.156; p= .017; Phi effect = .17). Entretanto, quando comparamos o desempenho dos atletas por evento (provas de atletismo) e separadamente por quartil, não houve diferenças significativas (p> .05). Em conclusão, nosso estudo evidenciou o papel influente da idade relativa em paraatletas de atletismo, mas parece que esse fenômeno não está relacionadoao desempenho em eventos desta modalidade.(AU)

El efecto del año constituyente en los atletas de triatlón máster / The effect of the constituent year on master triathlon athletes

Objetivo: El estudio evaluó si existe efecto de año constituyente relacionado a la participación y al desempeño entre los atletas participantes de competiciones brasileñas Masters de 2011 a 2017. Método: Utilizando datos del sitio web de la Confederación Brasileña de Triatlón, la frecuencia de participación fue analizada y las puntuaciones de clasificación fueron comparadas entre los triatletas en función del año constituyente. Resultados: Los resultados mostraron un efecto año constituyente relacionado con la participación para la muestra total y para el sexo masculino (χ24 = 30,778, p 0,0001), pero no para el femenino (χ24 = 5,932, p = 0,20). Además, los efectos del año constituyente relacionados con la participación existieron durante la cuarta (χ24 = 22,224, p 0,001) y quinta (χ24 = 10,794, p = 0,029) década de vida, pero no para la sexta (χ24 = 5,570, p = 0,234) década. Al comparar los tres puntajes más altos del ranking en función del año constituyente en cualquier grupo de edad de cinco años, no se observó diferencia significativa para el total de la muestra, sexo y década de vida. Conclusiones: El efecto del año constituyente existe solo en triatletas del sexo masculino; sin embargo, ese fenómeno no parece influenciar el desempeño del ranking. (AU)

The effect of tyrosine supplementation on whole-body endurance performance in physically active population: A systematic review and meta-analysis including GRADE qualification.

Although tyrosine supplementation is well recognized to improve cognitive function, its impact on endurance performance is debatable and needs to be clarified further. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effects of tyrosine supplementation on whole-body endurance performance in physically active population. The search strategy follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA), using four databases (Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, PsycINFO, and PubMed) until 3 August 2023. The effect of tyrosine (experimental condition) was compared against placebo (control condition). The methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE Pro software) System was also used to assess the quality of evidence. A total of 10 interventions from 8 studies were included. The sub-group analysis revealed no significant differences between tyrosine and placebo conditions for time to exhaustion (SMD = 0.02; p = 0.94) and time trial performance (SMD = -0.04; p = 0.85). The level of evidence as qualified with GRADE was moderate. In conclusion, moderate-quality evidence suggests that tyrosine supplementation is ineffective on endurance performance in the physically active population, independently of the endurance task (TTE or ETT).

Histopathological and immunological characteristics of placentas infected with chikungunya virus.

Although vertical transmission of CHIKV has been reported, little is known about the role of placenta in the transmission of this virus and the effects of infection on the maternal-fetal interface. In this work we investigated five placentas from pregnant women who became infected during the gestational period. Four formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples of placenta (cases 1-4) were positive for CHIKV by RT-PCR. One (case 5) had no positive test of placenta, but had positive RT-PCR for CHIKV in the serum of the mother and the baby, confirming vertical transmission. The placentas were analyzed regarding histopathological and immunological aspects. The main histopathological changes were: deciduitis, villous edema, deposits, villous necrosis, dystrophic calcification, thrombosis and stem vessel obliteration. In infected placentas we noted increase of cells (CD8+ and CD163+) and pro- (IFN-γ and TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory (TGF-ß and IL-10) cytokines compared to control placentas. Moreover, CHIKV antigen was detected in decidual cell, trophoblastic cells, stroma villi, Hofbauer cells, and endothelial cells. In conclusion, CHIKV infection seems to disrupt placental homeostasis leading to histopathological alterations in addition to increase in cellularity and cytokines overproduction, evidencing an altered and harmful environment to the pregnant woman and fetus.

Prevalence of eating disorders indicators and their relationship with sleep quality in women who practice Brazilian jiu-jitsu: A pilot study / Prevalencia de indicadores de trastornos alimentarios y su relación con la calidad del sueño en mujeres brasileñas que practican jiu-jitsu: Un estudio piloto

Abstract Introduction The literature presents few findings on the relationship between sleep quality and eating disorders indicators, especially in women fighters. Objective To compare the sleep quality among women who practice BJJ due to risk behaviors in eating disorders. Method Twenty-six women who practice Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) participated in this study. After completing the Free and Informed Consent Form, the participants answered the instruments separately (Eating Attitudes Test and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index). Data were analysed using the unpaired T-test and Pearson's linear correlation. Results Twenty-six women who practice BJJ participated in the study. The first group had non-prevalence of eating disorders indicators (n = 14) while the second group had prevalence (n = 12). There was no correlation between sleep quality and eating disorders indicators in none of the groups. Similary, there was no statistical difference between the sleep quality of the two groups; however, both groups were poor sleepers. Discussion and conclusion Findings suggest that the prevalence of eating disorders indicators is high in women who practice BJJ, however, we did find a significant correlation between eating disorder indicators and sleep quality. Thus, as this is a nascent topic, further research is needed to better clarify this phenomenon.

Resumen Introducción En la literatura hay pocos hallazgos sobre la relación existente entre la calidad del sueño, y lo indicadores de trastornos alimenticios, especialmente en mujeres luchadoras. Objetivo Fue analizar la calidad del sueño con indicadores de riesgo de trastornos alimenticios en practicantes brasileñas de Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). Método Veintiséis mujeres que practican BJJ participaron en este estudio. Después de completar un Formulario de Consentimiento Libre e Informado, las participantes respondieron por separado los instrumentos (Prueba de Actitudes Alimentarias e Índice de Calidad del Sueño de Pittsburgh). Los datos se analizaron con la prueba t no emparejada y la correlación lineal de Pearson. Resultados Participaron en el estudio 26 mujeres que practican BJJ, el primer grupo estuvo conformado por la no revalorización de los indicadores de trastornos alimentarios (n = 14) y el segundo grupo presentó prevalencia (n = 12). No se encontró correlación entre la calidad del sueño y los indicadores de trastornos de la alimentación en ninguno de los grupos. Tampoco hubo diferencia estadística entre la calidad del sueño de cada grupo, ambos grupos no dormían bien. Discusión y conclusión Los resultados señalan que la prevalencia de los indicadores de trastornos de la alimentación es elevada en las mujeres que practican BJJ; sin embargo, cuando se correlacionan los indicadores de trastornos de la alimentación con la calidad del sueño, no hay datos que indiquen la existencia de ninguna relación. Por lo tanto, dado que se trata de un tema reciente, es necesario seguir investigando para aclarar mejor este fenómeno.

A Chikungunya Virus Multiepitope Recombinant Protein Expressed from the Binary System Insect Cell/Recombinant Baculovirus Is Useful for Laboratorial Diagnosis of Chikungunya.

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an arbovirus currently distributed worldwide, causing a disease that shares clinical signs and symptoms with other illnesses, such as dengue and Zika and leading to a challenging clinical differential diagnosis. In Brazil, CHIKV emerged in 2014 with the simultaneous introduction of both Asian and East/Central/South African (ECSA) genotypes. Laboratorial diagnosis of CHIKV is mainly performed by molecular and serological assays, with the latter more widely used. Although many commercial kits are available, their costs are still high for many underdeveloped and developing countries where the virus circulates. Here we described the development and evaluation of a multi-epitope recombinant protein-based IgG-ELISA (MULTREC IgG-ELISA) test for the specific detection of anti-CHIKV antibodies in clinical samples, as an alternative approach for laboratorial diagnosis. The MULTREC IgG-ELISA showed 86.36% of sensitivity and 100% of specificity, and no cross-reactivity with other exanthematic diseases was observed. The recombinant protein was expressed from the binary system insect cell/baculovirus using the crystal-forming baculoviral protein polyhedrin as a carrier of the target recombinant protein to facilitate recovery. The crystals were at least 10 times smaller in size and had an amorphous shape when compared to the polyhedrin wild-type crystal. The assay uses a multi-epitope antigen, representing two replicates of 18 amino acid sequences from the E2 region and a sequence of 17 amino acids from the nsP3 region of CHIKV. The recombinant protein was highly expressed, easy to purify and has demonstrated its usefulness in confirming chikungunya exposure, indeed showing a good potential tool for epidemiological surveillance.

Subsets of Cytokines and Chemokines from DENV-4-Infected Patients Could Regulate the Endothelial Integrity of Cultured Microvascular Endothelial Cells.

Introduction: It is a consensus that inflammatory mediators produced by immune cells contribute to changes in endothelial permeability in dengue. We propose to relate inflammatory mediators seen in dengue patients with the in vitro alteration of endothelial cells (ECs) cultured with serum from these patients. Methods: Patients with mild (DF) to moderate and severe dengue (DFWS/Sev) were selected. ELISA quantified inflammatory mediators. Expression of adhesion molecules and CD147 were evaluated in the ECs cultured with the patient's serum by flow cytometry. We assessed endothelial permeability by measuring transendothelial electrical resistance in cocultures of ECs with patient serum. Results: Dengue infection led to an increase in inflammatory mediators-the IL-10 distinguished DF from DFWS/Sev. There were no changes in CD31, CD54, and CD106 but decreased CD147 expression in ECs. DFWS/Sev sera induced a greater difference in endothelial permeability than DF sera. Correlation statistical test indicated that low IL-10 and IFN-γ and high CCL5 maintain the integrity of ECs in DF patients. In contrast, increased TNF, IFN-γ, CXCL8, and CCL2 maintain EC integrity in DFWS/Sev patients. Conclusions: Our preliminary data suggest that a subset of inflammatory mediators may be related to the maintenance or loss of endothelial integrity, reflecting the clinical prognosis.

Was It Chikungunya? Laboratorial and Clinical Investigations of Cases Occurred during a Triple Arboviruses' Outbreak in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The co-circulation of chikungunya virus (CHIKV), dengue virus (DENV) and Zika virus (ZIKV) in Rio de Janeiro (RJ), Brazil, caused a challenging triple epidemic, as they share similar clinical signs and symptoms and geographical distribution. Here, we aimed to investigate the clinical and laboratorial aspects of chikungunya suspected cases assisted in RJ during the 2018 outbreak, focusing on the differential diagnosis with dengue and zika. All suspected cases were submitted to molecular and/or serological differential diagnostic approaches to arboviruses. A total of 242 cases suspected of arbovirus infection were investigated and 73.6% (178/242) were molecular and/or serologically confirmed as chikungunya. In RT-qPCR confirmed cases, cycle threshold (Ct) values ranged from 15.46 to 35.13, with acute cases presenting lower values. Chikungunya cases were mainly in females (64%) and the most frequently affected age group was adults between 46 to 59 years old (27%). Polyarthralgia affected 89% of patients, especially in hands and feet. No dengue virus (DENV) and Zika virus (ZIKV) infections were confirmed by molecular diagnosis, but 9.5% (23/242) had serological evidence of DENV exposure by the detection of specific anti-DENV IgM or NS1, and 42.7% (76/178) of chikungunya positive cases also presented recent DENV exposure reflected by a positive anti-DENV IgM or NS1 result. A significantly higher frequency of arthritis (p = 0.023) and limb edema (p < 0.001) was found on patients with CHIKV monoinfection compared to dengue patients and patients exposed to both viruses. Lastly, phylogenetic analysis showed that the chikungunya cases were caused by the ECSA genotype. Despite the triple arboviruses' epidemic in the state of RJ, most patients with fever and arthralgia investigated here were diagnosed as chikungunya cases, and the incidence of CHIKV/DENV co-detection was higher than that reported in other studies.

Increased circulating levels of High Mobility Group Box 1 (HMGB1) in acute-phase Chikungunya virus infection: Potential disease biomarker.

BACKGROUND: Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) causes a febrile syndrome with intense and debilitating arthralgia that can persist for several months or years after complete virus clearance. As there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine against CHIKV, identification of serological markers that help clinical management of CHIKV patients is urgent. The High Mobility Group Box 1 (HMGB1) protein is secreted to extracellular milieu and triggers an intense inflammatory process by inducing the overexpression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. HMGB1 plays an important role in several virus diseases as well as in rheumatoid arthritis. OBJECTIVES: This study focus on the investigation of HMGB1 serum levels in a sera panel from CHIKV-infected patients in an attempt to assess its potential as a biomarker for chikungunya clinical management. STUDY DESIGN: Eighty CHIKV-positive samples and 32 samples from healthy donors were subjected to a quantitative HMGB1 ELISA assay to assess the HMGB1 circulating levels. RESULTS: HMGB1 levels were significantly higher in CHIKV-positive samples (516.12 ng/mL, SEM ± 48.83 ng/mL) compared to negative control (31.20 ng/mL, SEM ± 3.24 ng/mL, p < 0.0001). Circulating levels of HMGB1 persisted elevated during the whole acute-phase of disease and correlated with virus titer (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The present study is the first to describe increased serum levels of HMGB1 in CHIKV infection and its positive correlation with virus titer, suggesting its potential use as a biomarker for diagnosis and treatment of chikungunya fever.

Impact of increasing age on high-performance Olympic triathletes in male and female: a case report

Abstract Aim: Increasing age is associated with significant changes in athletes' performance; however, it is not yet known how increasing age could influence the performance of triathletes. In this sense, the present study aimed to investigate how the performance of two elite triathletes (HCK and AD), who participated and finished the Olympic Games in Sydney, Athens, Beijing, and London, could change over the years. Methods: This study reports two cases (male and female) with cross-sectional and retrospective characteristics that describe how the increasing age changes the performance of two elite triathletes who participated in four consecutive Olympics (2000, 2004, 2008, and 2012). Pearson correlation test was used to verify the correlation between the performance and age of the triathletes. A value of p < 0.05 was assumed to show statistical significance. Results: The results suggest that both triathletes showed impaired performance at the Summer Games in Athens in 2004. When the two athletes were analyzed together, positive correlations were observed between age and transition 1 (T1; swim-to-cycle) and transition 2 (T2; cycle-to-run). Also, a high correlation was found between T2 and age for HCK but not for AD. The results showed a significant correlation between increasing age and a reduction in running performance for HCK. Conclusion: Although the two triathletes improved overall time throughout the Olympic Games, this improvement did not correlate with age. Thus, the increasing age does not seem to impact these two athletes during the four Olympic events.

Different Profiles of Cytokines, Chemokines and Coagulation Mediators Associated with Severity in Brazilian Patients Infected with Dengue Virus.

The incidence of dengue in Latin America has increased dramatically during the last decade. Understanding the pathogenic mechanisms in dengue is crucial for the identification of biomarkers for the triage of patients. We aimed to characterize the profile of cytokines (IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-18 and IL-10), chemokines (CXCL8/IL-8, CCL2/MCP-1 and CXCL10/IP-10) and coagulation mediators (Fibrinogen, D-dimer, Tissue factor-TF, Tissue factor pathway inhibitor-TFPI and Thrombomodulin) during the dengue-4 epidemic in Brazil. Laboratory-confirmed dengue cases had higher levels of TNF-α (p < 0.001), IL-6 (p = 0.005), IL-10 (p < 0.001), IL-18 (p = 0.001), CXCL8/IL-8 (p < 0.001), CCL2/MCP-1 (p < 0.001), CXCL10/IP-10 (p = 0.001), fibrinogen (p = 0.037), D-dimer (p = 0.01) and TFPI (p = 0.042) and lower levels of TF (p = 0.042) compared to healthy controls. A principal component analysis (PCA) distinguished between two profiles of mediators of inflammation and coagulation: protective (TNF-α, IL-1ß and CXCL8/IL-8) and pathological (IL-6, TF and TFPI). Lastly, multivariate logistic regression analysis identified high aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) as independent risk factors associated with severity (adjusted OR: 1.33; 95% CI 1.03-1.71; p = 0.027), the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) was 0.775 (95% CI 0.681-0.869) and an optimal cutoff value was 1.4 (sensitivity: 76%; specificity: 79%), so it could be a useful marker for the triage of patients attending primary care centers.

A large epidemic of a necrotic skin infection in the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Principe: an epidemiological study.

INTRODUCTION: In 2016-18, the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe suffered a necrotic skin infection epidemic. METHODS: A surveillance system was established after increased hospitalisations for this infection. Microbiology results were available for samples analysed in December 2016 and March 2017 using whole genome sequencing and metagenomics. Negative binomial regression was used to study the association of weather conditions with monthly case counts in a time-series analysis. RESULTS: From October 2016 to October 2018, the epidemic cumulative attack rate was 1.5%. The first peak lasted 5 months, accounting for one-third of total cases. We could not conclusively identify the aetiological agent(s) due to the country's lack of microbiology capacity. Increased relative humidity was associated with increased monthly cases (incidence rate ratio (IRR) 1.05, 95% CI 1.02-1.09), and higher precipitation in the previous month with a higher number of cases in the following month (months with 0-49 mm rainfall compared with months with 50-149 mm and ≥150 mm: IRR 1.44, 95 % CI 1.13-1.78 and 1.50, 95% CI 1.12-1.99, respectively). DISCUSSION: This epidemic was favoured by increased relative humidity and precipitation, potentially contributing to community-based transmission of ubiquitous bacterial strains superinfecting skin wounds. FUNDING: World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Ministry of Health.

Characterization of sleep quality in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fighters.

INTRODUCTION: Sleep quality can positively or negatively influences the physical performance of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fighters; however, the literature does not indicate whether the sleep quality of these fighters is good or poor. OBJECTIVE: Characterization of the sleep quality of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) fighters, stratifying by weight category and color belts. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A descriptive study that featured with 175 BJJ fighters, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was applied to assess sleep quality. Mean, standard deviation and 95% confidence interval of mean were used to characterize the data. RESULTS: All groups, regardless of weight category or color rank, were classified as poor sleepers (PSQI=5), which indicates a low sleep quality. CONCLUSION: The sleep of BJJ fighters is characterized as poor, which may indicate negative outcomes in technical and physical performance.

Nutrition and bioactive potential of the noni fruit cultivated from the Mato Grosso State / Potencial nutricional e bioativo do noni cultivado no estado de Mato Grosso

ABSTRACT: The objective was to evaluate the physical and chemical characteristics of noni (Morinda citrifolia) grown in the Mato Grosso State. Ripe fruits from a field located in Cuiabá-MT, had the peel, pulp and seeds separated and subjected to different evaluations. The fruit parts were characterized physically and chemically. Determinations of vitamin C, carotenoids, phenolics and the total antioxidant activity of the fruit mesocarp (pulp) were made. Noni cultivated in the Mato Grosso State presents high levels of potassium, calcium and sodium, with predominance of potassium. The protein content was higher in the seed, and the ash, in the peel, respectively. Noni pulp showed high levels of vitamin C, carotenoids and phenolics and can be considered a potential antioxidant.

RESUMO: Objetivou-se avaliar as características físicas e químicas do noni (Morinda citrifolia) cultivado no estado de Mato Grosso. Frutos maduros provenientes de um plantio localizado na cidade de Cuiabá, MT, tiveram a casca, polpa e as sementes separadas e submetidas a diferentes avaliações. As partes das frutas foram caracterizadas física e quimicamente. Foram feitas determinações de vitamina C, de carotenoides, de fenólicos e da atividade antioxidante total do mesocarpo (polpa) do fruto. O noni cultivado no Mato Grosso apresenta altos níveis de potássio, cálcio e sódio, com predominância de potássio. O teor de proteína foi maior na semente e, de cinzas, na casca, respectivamente. A polpa de noni apresentou altos níveis de vitamina C, carotenoides e fenólicos e pode ser considerado um potencial antioxidante.

A idade relativa influencia na pontuação do ranking de triatletas juniores brasileiros? / Does relative age influence the ranking of brazilian junior triathletes?

O efeito da idade relativa (EIR) se refere a diferença na idade cronológica entre os quartis de nascimento dos atletas da mesma faixa etária, que pode beneficiar pessoas nascidas no início do ano. Este fenômeno está claro em diversos esportes coletivos, porem em modalidades individuais os resultados ainda são inconsistentes, principalmente no triathlon. Sendo assim, nos objetivamos analisar se o efeito da idade relativa influencia no ranking brasileiro de triathlon em atletas juniores da categoria 16/17 e 18/19. A amostra do estudo foi composta por triatletas do sexo masculino da categoria 16/17 (N=132) e 18/19 (N=164), que compuseram os rankings dos anos de 2011 a 2019. Para comparação e análise dos dados foi identificado o quartil de cada atleta, assim como, os dados referentes as pontuações do ranking. Para testar o efeito da idade relativa, foi realizado o teste de qui-quadrado (χ2 ). Em seguida testamos a normalidade com o teste de kolmogorov-smirnov. Foi realizado o teste de kruskal wallis para verificar diferenças entre os quartis em relação aos pontos do ranking e adotamos nível de significância de p≤0,05 para todos os testes. Os resultados mostraram não haver diferenças significativa na distribuição no quartil dos atletas em ambas as categorias. Além disso, evidenciamos também que não houve influência desse fenômeno nas pontuações dos rankings. Com isso, podemos concluir que o EIR está ausente em triatletas juniores brasileiros e que este fenômeno não influencia nas pontuações dos rankings.(AU)

The relative age effect (RAE) refers to the difference in chronological age between birth quarters of athletes of the same age group, who may benefit people born at the beginning of the year. This phenomenon is clear in several collective sports, but in individual modalities, the results are still inconsistent, especially in triathlon. Thus, we aim to analyze if the effect of relative age influences the Brazilian triathlon ranking in junior athletes of the category 16/17 and 18/19. The study sample consisted of male triathletes of the 16/17 (N = 132) and 18/19 (N = 164) males, who composed the rankings of the years 2011 to 2019. For comparison and analysis of the data was identified the quartile of each athlete, as well as the data referring to the scores of the ranking. To test the effect of relative age, the chi-square test (χ 2 ) was performed. Then we test normality with the kolmogorov-smirnov test. We performed the kruskal wallis test to verify differences between the quartiles in relation to the ranking points and adopted a significance level of p≤0.05 for all the tests. The results showed that there were no significant differences in the quartile distribution of athletes in both categories. In addition, we also showed that there was no influence of this phenomenon on the rankings scores. With this, we can conclude that the RAE is absent in Brazilian junior triathletes and that this phenomenon does not influence the rankings scores.(AU)

Zika Induces Human Placental Damage and Inflammation.

In Brazil, an epidemic of Zika virus (ZIKV) infections was declared in 2015 that coincided with alarming reports of microcephaly in newborns associated with mother infection. Although the virus has placental tropism, changes in the tissue morphology and immunity of infected patients have not yet been elucidated. Here, we investigated the histopathological and ultrastructural changes along with the immunological profile and the BDNF expression in rare placental material. Tissues were obtained in the 2015-2016 Brazilian epidemic, of ten ZIKV-infected patients during pregnancy, five resulting in cases of fetal microcephaly and five non-microcephaly, compared to five non-infected control placentae. Viral antigens were only detected in samples from the ZIKV infected patients. Infected placentae presented histopathological severe damage, while the ultrastructural evaluation showed abnormal organelles, such as clusters of virus-like particles consistent with the ZIKV dimensions. Increased infiltration of CD68+ and TCD8+ cells, expression of MMPs, cytokines (IFN-γ and TNF-α) and other immunological mediators (RANTES/CCL5 and VEGFR-2) confirmed excessive inflammation and vascular permeability dysfunction. An evaluation of BDNF showed a decrease that could modulate neuronal damage in the developing fetus. The placental changes caused by ZIKV are not pathognomonic, however, the data provide evidence that this infection leads to severe placental injury.

Home-based exercise during confinement in COVID-19 pandemic and mental health in adults: a cross-sectional comparative study / Exercício físico em casa durante o confinamento na pandemia COVID-19 e a saúde mental em adultos: um estudo comparativo transversal

This study compared the quality of life, sleep quality, eating attitudes, and psychological aspects among adults (22.93 ± 2.58 years), whether physically inactive or not, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants were enrolled into: home-based exercise during the confinement (HBE group, n = 34), physically inactive during (PIDC group, n = 28), and before the confinement (PIBC group, n = 27). The depression, anxiety, and stress scale - Short Form, the Pittsburgh sleep quality index, the Eating Attitudes Test, and the quality of life questionnaire were used to assess var-iables. The covariance analysis (covariable - gender) was used to compare variables among the groups. The effect size was calculated by Cohen "d" (ESd). The HBE group presented a better quality of life compared to both PIDC (p = 0.002, ESd = 1.26) and PIBC (p = 0.008, ESd = 1.00) groups. Anxiety (p = 0.004, ESd = 0.96), depression (p = 0.02, ESd = 0.65) and stress (p = 0.02, ESd = 0.72) were significantly higher in the PIDC group when compared to HBE group. Self-reported sleep quality was better in the HBE group than in both other groups (p < 0.05). No group presented eating disorder symptoms; however, the HBE group has shown higher scores compared to both PIBC group (p = 0.01). In conclusion, adults who had exercised at home during the COVID-19 pandemic presented better quality of life, self-reported sleep quality, and reduced anxiety, depression, and stress levels than those physically inactive ones before and during the pandemic

Este estudo comparou a qualidade de vida, qualidade subjetiva do sono, atitudes alimentares e aspectos psicológicos em adultos (22,93 ± 2,58 anos), fisicamente inativos ou não, antes e durante a pandemia do COVID-19. Os participantes foram divididos em: exercícios domiciliares durante o confinamento (grupo EDDC, n = 34), fisicamente inativos durante (grupo FIDC, n = 28) e antes do confinamento (grupo FIAC, n = 27). A escala de depressão, ansiedade e estresse ­ versão curta, índice de qualidade do sono de Pittsburgh, teste de atitudes alimentares e o questionário de qualidade de vida foram utilizados para avaliar variáveis. A análise de covariância (covariável ­ gênero) foi utilizada para comparar os grupos. O tamanho do efeito foi calculado por Cohen "d " (ESd). O grupo EDDC apresentou uma melhor qualidade de vida em comparação aos grupos FIDC (p = 0,002, ESd = 1,26) e FIAC (p = 0,008, ESd = 1,00). Ansiedade (p = 0,004, ESd = 0,96), depressão (p = 0,02, ESd = 0,65) e estresse (p = 0,02, ESd = 0,72) foram significativamente maiores no grupo FIDC quando comparados ao EDDC. A qualidade do sono subjetiva foi melhor no EDDC do que nos outros grupos (p < 0,05). Nenhum grupo apresentou sintomas de transtorno alimentar; entretanto, o grupo EDDC mostrou escores maiores em comparação ao FIAC (p = 0,01). Em conclusão, adultos que se exercitaram em casa durante a pandemia do COVID-19 apresentaram melhor qualidade de vida, qualidade subjetiva de sono e níveis reduzidos de ansiedade, depressão e estresse do que aqueles fisicamente inativos

Influence of the relative age effect on height, motor performance and technical elements of olympic volleyball athletes / O efeito da idade relativa na estatura, desempenho motor e elementos técnicos dos atletas olímpicos de voleibol / El efecto de la edad relativa en la estatura, desempeño motor y elementos técnicos de los atletas olímpicos de vóleibol

ABSTRACT Introduction The Relative Age Effect (RAE) refers to the chronological age difference that occurs between athletes of the same age category, which can benefit individuals born in the first two quartiles of the year. This phenomenon is commonly studied in team sports, yet the results are still inconsistent, especially in volleyball. Objective This study analyzed the distribution of the number of births per quartile of Olympic volleyball athletes and whether this would influence anthropometric/motor variables and technical elements. Methods The sample consisted of 116 male athletes who scored during the Rio 2016 Olympics. For data analysis, we identified each athlete's quartile as well as data on height, attack and defensive (or block) range, and respective scores during the games. The Chi-square test was then used to verify interquartile distribution. To assess the normality of the other variables, we conducted the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Once accepted, one-way ANOVA was performed with the Bonferroni post-hoc test to verify significance between quartiles. A significance level of p≤0.05 was adopted. Results There was no significant difference in the distribution of athletes between quartiles (p = 0.74). When comparing the other variables in terms of the athletes' trimester of birth, we did not observe any significant difference between height (p = 0.79), attack (p=0.59) and defensive range (p=0.07), and in the scores for serving, attacking and blocking between quartiles either. Conclusion The Relative Age Effect was not observed in Olympic volleyball athletes, therefore this phenomenon is not related to the athletes' performance. This shows that other possible variables may influence the development of these athletes, discarding the relative age phenomenon. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective and Comparative Study.

RESUMO Introdução O efeito da idade relativa (EIR) refere-se à diferença da idade cronológica que ocorre entre os atletas de uma mesma categoria de idade que pode beneficiar os indivíduos nascidos nos dois primeiros quartis do ano. Esse fenômeno é comumente estudado em esportes coletivos, entretanto, os resultados ainda são inconsistentes, principalmente, no voleibol. Objetivo O presente estudo analisou a distribuição do número de nascimentos por quartil dos atletas olímpicos de voleibol e se isso influenciaria em variáveis antropométricas, motoras e em elementos técnicos. Métodos A amostra foi composta por 116 atletas masculinos que pontuaram durante as olimpíadas do Rio 2016. Para análise de dados, foi identificado o quartil de cada atleta, assim como os dados referentes à estatura, alcance no ataque e bloqueio e as respectivas pontuações durante os jogos. Em seguida, utilizou-se o teste de qui-quadrado para verificar a distribuição entre os quartis. Para avaliar a normalidade das outras variáveis, foi efetivado o teste de Kolmogorov-Smirnov. Após aceito, foi realizado ANOVA - one way, com o post-hoc de Bonferroni, a fim de verificar as significâncias entre os quartis. Adotou-se o nível de significância de p≤0,05. Resultados Não houve diferença significativa na distribuição dos atletas entre os quartis (p=0,74). Quando comparamos as outras variáveis em relação ao trimestre de nascimento dos atletas, também não observamos diferença significativa entre a estatura (p=0,79), alcance de ataque (p=0,59) e bloqueio (p=0,07), e nas pontuações de saque, ataque e bloqueio entre os quartis. Conclusão O efeito da idade relativa não foi observado nos atletas olímpicos de voleibol, portanto, esse fenômeno não está relacionado ao desempenho dos atletas. Isso mostra que outras possíveis variáveis podem influenciar a formação desses atletas, descartando o fenômeno da idade relativa. Nível de evidência III; Estudo retrospectivo e comparativo.

RESUMEN Introducción El efecto de la edad relativa (EER) se refiere a la diferencia de la edad cronológica que ocurre entre los atletas de una misma categoría de edad que puede beneficiar a los individuos nacidos en los primeros dos cuartiles del año. Este fenómeno se estudia comúnmente en deportes colectivos, entretanto, los resultados aún son inconsistentes, especialmente en el vóleibol. Objetivo El presente estudio analizó la distribución del número de nacimientos por cuartil de los atletas olímpicos de vóleibol y si eso influenciaría en variables antropométricas, motoras y en elementos técnicos. Métodos La muestra fue compuesta por 116 atletas masculinos que puntuaron durante las Olimpíadas de Río 2016. Para análisis de datos, fue identificado el cuartil de cada atleta, así como datos referentes a la altura, alcance en el ataque y bloqueo, y sus respectivas puntuaciones durante los juegos. Luego, se utilizó el test de Chi-cuadrado para verificar la distribución entre los cuartiles. Para evaluar la normalidad de las otras variables, se realizó el test de Kolmogorov-Smirnov. Después de aceptar, se realizó ANOVA one-way, con post-hoc de Bonferroni a fin de verificar las significancias entre los cuartiles. Se adoptó el nivel de significancia de p≤0.05. Resultados No hubo diferencia significativa en la distribución de los atletas entre los cuartiles (p = 0,74). Cuando comparamos las otras variables con relación al trimestre de nacimiento de los atletas, tampoco observamos diferencia significativa entre la estatura (p = 0,79), alcance de ataque (p=0,59) y bloqueo (p=0,07), y en las puntuaciones de saque, ataque y bloqueo entre los cuartiles. Conclusión El efecto de la edad relativa no fue observado en los atletas olímpicos de vóleibol, por lo tanto, este fenómeno no está relacionado al desempeño de los atletas. Esto muestra que otras posibles variables pueden influenciar la formación de estos atletas, descartando el fenómeno de la edad relativa. Nivel de evidencia III; Estudio retrospectivo y comparativo.