Exergames as an Effective Alternative to Real Environmental Tennis Training for Adolescents.

(1) Background: The popularity of motion-sensing computer-based games, like virtual reality (VR) exergames, is increasing among adolescents. However, their efficacy compared to conventional physical training methods remains unclear. This study investigated whether VR exergames produce effects on reaction time (RT) comparable to traditional tennis training in school-aged adolescents. (2) Methods: In total, 130 adolescents (mean age: 15.6 ± 2.0 years; 67 boys: 15.5 ± 2.2 years; 63 girls: 15.7 ± 1.8 years) were recruited in schools and assigned to one of three groups: VR exergame (G1, n = 39), tennis training (G2, n = 25), or control (G3, n = 66). Participants' RTs were evaluated before and after the interventions. G1 engaged in VR exergames for 8 min, G2 underwent traditional tennis training for 30 min, and G3 did not participate in any physical activity. (3) Results: Our results indicated that in G3, girls exhibited slower RTs compared to boys (p < 0.0). No differences were observed in RTs when comparing G1 and G2. (4) Conclusions: Sex appeared to influence RT, with girls showing slower RTs than boys in G3. The findings suggest that VR exergames and traditional tennis training have similar impacts on RT. This indicates the potential of VR exergames as an alternative to conventional physical training for improving RT in adolescents.

Mastering movement: A Cross-sectional investigation of motor competence in children and adolescents engaged in sports.

INTRODUCTION: Motor Competence (MC) is related to the development of healthy lifestyles in children and adolescents, and many studies have compared it with different variables, including sports participation. This investigation aimed to characterize the components and total scores of MC regarding different physical activity practices, such as physical education (PE) classes, futsal, volleyball, and ballet, and to compare MC regarding sports, sex, and age-groups. METHODS: Using a cross-sectional study, 398 Portuguese children and adolescents (398 participants: 200 boys and 198 girls; 12.649±3.46 years) were conveniently chosen between 2022 and 2023. Four groups of different sports were created: PE classes (n = 187), futsal (n = 80), volleyball (n = 101) and ballet (n = 30), and four different age groups: 7 to 9 years old (n = 117); 10 to 12 years old (n = 65), 13 to 15 years old (n = 96) and, 16 to 19 years old (n = 120). All participants reported to participate in at least two training sessions per week (1 hour each) for at least two years. MC was assessed with Motor Competence Assessment (MCA) comprising three components with six tests (two tests for each component). Participants' total MC was calculated as the average of the three components of the MCA. Data were analyzed by applying ANOVA one-way with LSD post-hoc. RESULTS: Differences were found in MC among groups, where futsal participants showed better scores in general. Sex comparison showed that boys have a higher MC when practicing futsal, especially compared to volleyball players. Age-group analysis showed that younger participants had better MC levels compared to older ones. CONCLUSION: The whole group showed the 50th percentile of MC, but volleyball adolescents showed results below this reference. MC is intrinsically linked to an individual's motor experiences and motivations rather than depending directly on the specific practice of the sport.

Association between Musculoskeletal Injuries and Depressive Symptoms among Athletes: A Systematic Review.

Musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries have a significant physical and psychological influence on an athlete's life. A systematic review of prospective cohort, cross-sectional, and case-control studies was undertaken in this study to analyze the association between MSK injuries with depressive symptoms in athletes. We searched on PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, with data inception to 15 February 2023. The methodological quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Of the 3677 potential studies only nine were included. These studies showed a bidirectional association between MSK injuries and depressive symptoms. Athletes with MSK injuries had higher levels of depressive symptoms, which raises the likelihood of experiencing depression in the future. Women athletes had higher levels of depressive symptoms compared with men. The presence of depressive symptoms is a significant predictor of disability in athletes. Our findings suggest that coaches should be more aware of depressive symptoms, in order to prevent MSK injuries, and to monitor athletes following an MSK injury.

Evaluation of Reaction Time during the One-Leg Balance Activity in Young Soccer Players: A Pilot Study.

This study's aim was two-fold: (i) to test the intra-session reliability of the one-leg balance activity test; and (ii) to assess the influence of age on reaction time (RT) and the differences between dominant and non-dominant feet. Fifty young soccer players with an average age of 12.4 ± 1.8 years were divided into two groups: younger soccer players (n = 26; 11.6 ± 0.9 years) and older soccer players (n = 24; 14.2 ± 0.8 years). Each group then completed four trials (two with each leg) of the one-leg balance activity (OLBA) to evaluate RT under a single-leg stance. Mean RT and the number of hits were calculated, and the best trial was also selected. T-tests and Pearson correlations were performed for statistical analysis. Values for RT were lower, and the number of hits was higher while standing on the non-dominant foot (p = 0.01). MANOVA revealed that the "Dominant Leg" factor did not affect the multivariate composite (Pillai Trace = 0.05; F(4, 43) = 0.565; p = 0.689; Partial ETA Squared = 0.050; Observed Power = 0.174). The "Age" factor did not present an effect on the multivariate composite (Pillai Trace = 0.104; F(4, 43) = 1.243; p = 0.307; Partial ETA Squared = 0.104; Observed Power = 0.355). The results of the present investigation demonstrate that RT may be lower while standing on the non-dominant foot.

El estatus epistemológico de la psicología: un análisis deconstructivo desde el historicismo Kuhniano / The epistemological status of psychology: a deconstructive analysis from Kuhnian historicism / O estatuto epistemológico da psicologia: uma análise desconstrutiva a partir do historicismo kuhniano

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo realizar una deconstrucción de la naturaleza y desarrollo científico de la psicología desde el historicismo epistemológico de Thomas Kuhn. Siguiendo su línea argumentativa, la psicología no tiene el estatus de ciencia al no existir un paradigma único y hegemónico que establezca las pautas teóricas y metodológicas dentro del quehacer psicológico en general. Para ello, se aplicó una revisión metateórica y hermenéutica sobre el modelo kuhniano, examinando si esta disciplina se encuentra, ciertamente, en un estadio precientífico y si reúne en la actualidad las condiciones y posibilidades que permitan viabilizar la unificación de los sistemas psicológicos que la componen. Como resultado de la misma, se concluyó que la psicología no tiene un estatus epistémico precientífico, sino científico, y que las pretensiones unificadoras u homogeneizantes de los paradigmas psicológicos deviene en una tarea y aspiración tan lejana como plausible, debiéndose antes fundamentar y definir si las propuestas integradoras resultan pertinentes, necesarias y legítimas dentro de su decurso histórico y científico.

The objective of this article was to carry out a deconstruction of the nature and scientific development of psychology from the epistemological historicism of Thomas Kuhn, since, following his line of argument, psychology does not have the status of science since there is no single and hegemonic paradigm that establish the theoretical and methodological guidelines within the psychological work in general. For this, a metatheoretical and hermeneutical review was applied to the Kuhnian model, examining whether this discipline is certainly in a pre-scientific stage and, thus, whether it currently meets the conditions and possibilities that allow the unification of the systems to be viable psychological elements that make it up. As a result of it, it was concluded that psychology does not have a pre-scientific epistemic status, but a scientific one, and that the unifying or homogenizing claims of psychological paradigms become a task and aspiration as distant as plausible, having to first base and define if the integrating proposals are pertinent, necessary and legitimate within its historical and scientific course.

O objetivo deste artigo foi realizar uma desconstrução da natureza e do desenvolvimento científico da psicologia a partir do historicismo epistemológico de Thomas Kuhn, uma vez que, seguindo sua linha de argumentação, a psicologia não tem o status de ciência, pois não existe um único e hegemônico paradigma que estabelecem as diretrizes teóricas e metodológicas do trabalho psicológico em geral. Para isso, aplicou-se uma revisão metateórica e hermenêutica ao modelo kuhniano, examinando se esta disciplina certamente está em um estágio pré-científico e, portanto, se atualmente reúne as condições e possibilidades que permitem a unificação dos sistemas ser viável. elementos psicológicos que a compõem. Como resultado, concluiu-se que a psicologia não tem um status epistêmico pré-científico, mas científico, e que as pretensões unificadoras ou homogeneizadoras dos paradigmas psicológicos tornam-se uma tarefa e aspiração tão distantes quanto plausíveis, tendo como base em primeiro lugar e definir se as propostas integradoras são pertinentes, necessárias e legítimas dentro de seu percurso histórico e científico.

Physical Activity Time and Intensity in Physical Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

With the COVID-19 outbreak, schools have experienced difficulty providing moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) to their students, which should normally account for at least 50% of children's physical education (PE) class time. We aimed to determine the intensity of physical activity (PA) within PE classes at various grade levels to compare children's in-class PA with the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommended guidelines. Thus, 301 students (1st to 12th grade) participated in the investigation. Children were evaluated during the PE classes with different typologies and durations. We assessed PA intensity using accelerometry and grouped data into either sedentary-to-light PA (SEDLI) or MVPA. Each child was assessed using both the time spent in PA (hours:minutes:seconds) and the percentage of time spent in PA versus other class activities. We found that, in the second-grade level group (fifth and sixth grades), girls spent more time in MVPA intensity than boys. Additionally, two-hour PE classes doubled the SEDLI for students in the third-grade group, and polythematic classes (those with more than one sport) promoted more MVPA level time than monothematic classes (only one sport). Concerning PA intensity during PE classes, 31-43% of the PE class total time was spent in MVPA but presented short duration and did not usually persist for 10 consecutive minutes (59% of the time). Children spent a large amount of time at the SEDLI intensity, considered insufficient for PA health benefits. Finally, to meet WHO guidelines for PA intensity, PE classes will need to increase MVPA time and reduce non-active periods between activities.

Further development of the Affordances for Motor Behavior of Schoolchildren: standardized version and scoring system / Desenvolvimento adicional do Affordances for Motor Behavior of Schoolchildren: versão estandardizada e sistema de pontuação

Mapping and evaluating regular contexts that schoolchildren attend is of great importance to un-derstanding motor behavior. This communication aims to present the scoring system and standardi-zation of the Affordances for Motor Behavior of Schoolchildren (AMBS), recently presented to the scientific and educational community. The AMBS was developed to assess children's interdependent systems, such as home, school, and sports activities, that can influence 6 to 10-year-olds' motor devel-opment, motor learning, and motor competence. The questionnaire was completed by 377 Brazilian families. Raw scores of each of the three subscales (home, materials, and school) were transformed into standard scores, ranging from very low to very high. AMBS subscales were classified as very low (1st quartile), low (2nd quartile), good (3rd quartile), and very good (4th quartile). The AMBS total raw score is a result of the sum of the three subscales standard scores and can be classified into three categories, ranging from a low to a high AMBS. Thus, AMBS total scores were classified as low (1st tercile), average (2nd tercile), and high (3rd tercile). We expect that raw and standard scores of the AMBS can be used by researchers, parents, and clinical/education professionals to assess children's affordances for motor behavior

Mapear e avaliar os contextos regulares que escolares frequentam é de grande importância para a com-preensão do comportamento motor. Esta comunicação tem como objetivo apresentar o sistema de pontuação e padronização do Affordances for Motor Behavior of Schoolchildren (AMBS), recentemente apresentado à comunidade científica e educacional. O AMBS foi desenvolvido para avaliar os sistemas interdependentes das crianças, como casa, escola e atividades esportivas, que podem influenciar o desenvolvimento motor, a aprendizagem motora e a competência motora de crianças de 6 a 10 anos. O questionário foi respondido por 377 famílias brasileiras. As pontuações brutas de cada uma das três subescalas (casa, materiais e escola) foram transformados em pontuações padrão, variando de muito baixo a muito alto. As subescalas AMBS foram classificadas em muito baixo (1º quartil), baixo (2º quartil), bom (3º quartil) e muito bom (4º quartil). A pontuação bruta total do AMBS é resultado da soma das pontuações padrão das três subescalas e pode ser classificada em três categorias, variando de um AMBS baixo a alto. Assim, os escores totais da AMBS foram classificados em baixo (1º tercil), médio (2º tercil) e alto (3º tercil). Esperamos que as pontuações brutas e padrão da AMBS possam ser utilizadas por pesquisadores, pais e profissionais clínicos/educacionais para avaliar as affordances das crianças visando melhor entendimento do comportamento motor

Relationship between the Affordances for Motor Behavior of Schoolchildren (AMBS) and Motor Competence Assessment (MCA) in Brazilian Children.

During growth, children are influenced by an extensive network, in which more favorable contexts provide better affordance landscapes, and consequently have a better potential to foster child development. We aimed to examine the affordances provided to children using the Affordances for Motor Behavior of Schoolchildren (AMBS) tool, estimating its association with children's motor competence, as assessed by the Motor Competence Assessment (MCA) battery. Seventy-two Brazilian children were evaluated using the MCA instrument. Their parents/guardians completed the AMBS. The correlations between the two instruments (sub-scales and total scores) were investigated. ANOVAs were used to compare the motor competence performance of children with Low, Average, and High AMBS scores. Positive associations were found between AMBS and MCA, although weak to moderate in nature. In addition, children whose environments were richer in motor affordances (higher AMBS scores) showed significantly higher levels on the MCA. This study provides evidence that AMBS is a valid tool for assessing motor affordances for schoolchildren, and that those affordances are related to children's motor competence.

Can exergames be used as an alternative to conventional exercises?

Abstract Aim: The present study aimed to analyze if the exergaming exercise produces the same acute effects as conventional training. Methods: The Nintendo® Wii was chosen as the stimulus for this study. Participants should conduct a physical training session under Exergames Training (ET) and Conventional Training (CT). Both training conditions use two aerobic exercises and six strength exercises, which were always performed in the same sequence. The study group was composed of 30 young adults (16 men and 14 women, mean age of 23.7 ± 3.7 years). Results: Our findings showed significant results between pre and post-tests: the heart rate (HR) and the double product (DP) were higher in the post-exercise period, while the systolic blood pressure (SBP) was lower. Further analysis revealed that ET and CT conditions had no significant differences. ET condition showed to present similar results as CT condition to women (regarding HR, diastolic blood pressure - DBP, and DP), and to men (HR, SBP, and DBP). Conclusion: The present research showed that exergaming provides the same acute effects in physiological variables as conventional exercises. Thus, this kind of exercise can be a reliable way to improve the lifestyle of young adults.

Cross-cultural comparisons of motor competence in southern Brazilian and Portuguese schoolchildren

Abstract Aim: This study aimed to compare the MC levels of Brazilian and Portuguese schoolchildren from 4 to 11 years. Methods: One hundred and forty-eight Brazilian children were evaluated using the Motor Competence Assessment (MCA) instrument and were later compared to the existent normative values of Portuguese children for a similar age range. Results: Our findings showed that MC increased with age, and boys outperformed girls, especially in the older age group. The distribution of the Brazilian children showed that while Brazilian boys perform above Portuguese normative values in 4 of the 6 tasks of the MCA, Brazilian girls perform below those values in all tasks, except for the standing long jump. Conclusion: The differences found, especially in girls, may be related to differences in the Physical Education curricula and how school recess periods are used.

O impacto da prática do futsal para a competência motora de crianças / The impact of futsal practice for child motor competence / El impacto de la práctica de fútbol sala en las habilidades motoras de los niños

A competência motora é um importante componente para o desenvolvimento infantil e está relacionada à performance nos mais variados esportes. Esse estudo examinou a relação entre a prática do futsal e a competência motora de meninos dos 6 aos 10 anos. Participaram 99 crianças com idade média de 8,15±1,18 anos, as quais foram divididas em dois grupos (praticantes de futsal vs. não praticantes). Para a avaliação da competência motora foi utilizado o Motor Competence Assessment (MCA). Os resultados indicam que os praticantes de futsal apresentam médias melhores em cinco dos seis testes do MCA (salto em comprimento, saltos laterais, lançamento e chute da bola, e shuttle run) do que às crianças que apenas participam das aulas de educação física. Em relação às categorias e à Competência Motora total, os resultados mostram que os praticantes de futsal obtiveram melhores resultados no que tange aos escores de estabilização (t= -3,936; p=0.000), locomoção (t= -3,803; p=0.000), manipulação (t= -4,124; p=0.000) e competência motora total (t= -4,529, p=0,000). Assim, esse estudo mostra que as crianças inseridas na prática de futsal possuem maiores níveis de competência nos testes de locomoção, de estabilização e de manipulação de objetos, bem como na competência motora total.

Motor competence is an important component of child development related to the performance of various sports. This study examined the relationship between futsal practice and motor skills in 6-to 10-year old boys. Ninety-nine Brazilian children with a mean age of 8.15 ± 1.18 years participated. The children were divided into two groups (futsal vs. non-practitioners). Motor Competence Assessment (MCA) was used to measure motor competence. The results indicate that futsal practitioners have better mean in five of six MCA tests (stand long jump, side jumps, ball throwing and kicking, and shuttle run) than children who only attend physical education classes. Regarding the categories and the total Motor Competence, the results show that futsal practitioners obtained better results regarding the stabilization scores (t = -3.936; p = 0.000), locomotion (t = -3.803; p = 0.000) , manipulation (t = -4,124; p = 0.000) and total motor competence (t = -4.529, p = 0.000). Thus, this study shows that children involved in futsal practice have higher levels of competence in locomotion, stabilization, and object manipulation tests, as well as in total motor competence

La competencia motora es un componente importante para el desarrollo infantil y está presente en desempeño de los deportes más variados. Este estudio examinó la relación entre la práctica del fútbol sala y las habilidades motoras entre niños de 6 a 10 años. Participaron 99 niños brasileños con una edad promedio de 8.15 ± 1.18 años. Los niños se dividieron en dos grupos (jugadores de fútbol sala versus no practicantes). La evaluación de la competencia motora (ACM) se utilizó para evaluar la competencia motora. Los resultados indican que los practicantes de fútbol sala tienen mejores medias en cinco de las seis pruebas de MCA (salto largo, saltos laterales, patada y patada con pelota, y carrera de lanzadera) que los niños que solo participan en clases de educación fisica. Con respecto a las categorías y la competencia motora total, los resultados muestran que los practicantes de fútbol sala obtuvieron mejores resultados con respecto a los puntajes de estabilización (t = -3.936; p = 0.000), locomoción (t = -3.803; p = 0.000), manipulación (t = -4,124; p = 0,000) y competencia motora total (t = -4,529, p = 0,000). Los resultados muestran que los practicantes de fútbol sala obtuvieron mejores resultados (t = -4.529, p = 0.000). Este estudio muestra que los niños insertados en la práctica de fútbol sala tienen niveles más altos de competencia en pruebas de locomoción, estabilización y manipulación de objetos, así como en la competencia motora total.

Affordances for Motor Skill Development in Home, School, and Sport Environments: A Narrative Review.

Through development, a child's varied movement contexts provide different opportunities or affordances for action that are fundamental to promoting motor competence. Although home is the primary environment for infants, as children age, school and sport environments gain importance. Studies focusing on affordances for motor behavior in children have mainly addressed the home microsystem, providing an incomplete picture of affordances across different settings, particularly later in development. Here, we undertook a narrative literature review of various affordances for children's motor development. This review revealed that prior studies of school and sports contexts have not specifically focused on those environmental properties that promote or hinder motor learning opportunities, meaning that future research should assess these relationships through manipulations of environmental features in these different microsystems.

Recurso polinífero utilizado por Apis mellifera (Himenoptera: Apidae) en un área de bosque subtropical del noroeste de Argentina / Pollen loads used by Apis mellifera (Himenoptera: Apidae) in an area of subtropical forest in Northwestern Argentina

Resumen En el noroeste de Argentina, los bosques subtropicales de las Yungas son de gran importancia por la gran diversidad vegetal. Las abejas melíferas (A. mellifera) utilizan estos recursos para su alimentación y en consecuencia como un servicio ecosistémico a través de la apicultura. La caracterización de la flora polinífera de una región permite conocer la fuente de alimento y definir la importancia de las diferentes especies vegetales para el desarrollo y mantenimiento de las colonias. El objetivo del presente trabajo es identificar la flora polinífera utilizada por A. mellifera en el sector oeste de las Yungas en Jujuy (Argentina) a través de la caracterización de sus cargas corbiculares y analizar las variaciones a lo largo de la primavera y verano de dos periodos productivos consecutivos. Para ello, se analizaron 14 muestras tomadas mensualmente a la largo de los periodos setiembre 2011 a marzo 2012 y setiembre 2012 a marzo de 2013. Las muestras se obtuvieron a través de trampas caza polen en las entradas de las colmenas y tratadas en el laboratorio según las técnicas convencionales de melisopalinología con posterior acetólisis. Se identificaron un total de 46 tipos polínicos pertenecientes a 25 familias botánicas. Las más importantes de acuerdo a los valores de índice de importancia de familia son: Euphorbiaceae (35.54), Fabaceae (26.27), Asteraceae (20.77), Vitaceae (16.14) y Myrtaceae (9.13). Asimismo, los principales recursos poliníferos fueron Eucalyptus, Eupatorium, Mimosa, Parapiptadenia excelsa, Sebastiania, Viguiera, Zanthoxylum, tipo Cissus y representantes de las familias Cactaceae y Euphorbiaceae. Las variaciones del índice de amplitud de nicho trófico evidencian para la zona una selección de recursos florales, donde se destaca la utilización de especies nativas. La información generada en este estudio, aporta al conocimiento del recurso ofrecido por el bosque y las especies que son de importancia para la producción apícola. Además, de contribuir a potenciar la producción y comercialización de este producto a partir de su valor agregado, permitiendo a los apicultores un buen manejo de las colmenas.

Abstract In Northwest Argentina, Yungas subtropical forests are very important because of their huge vegetal diversity. Honeybees (A. mellifera) use these resources to feed and therefore as an ecosystemic service through beekeeping. The characterization of pollen flora of a region allows getting to know the food source and defining the importance of different plant species for colonies development and maintenance. The aim of the present study is to identify the pollen flora used by A. mellifera in the Yungas Western area in Jujuy (Argentina) by means of their pollen loads characterization and to analyze the variations of two consecutive productive periods throughout spring and summer. To do this, 14 samples taken monthly were analyzed over the periods from September 2011 to March 2012 and September 2012 to March 2013. The samples were obtained from pollen traps at the entrances of the hives and were treated in the laboratory under conventional melisopalinology techniques with subsequent acetolysis. A total of 46 pollen types belonging to 25 botanical families were identified. The most important ones according to the family importance index are Euphorbiaceae (35.54), Fabaceae (26.27), Asteraceae (20.77), Vitaceae (16.14), Myrtaceae (9.13). Zanthoxylum, Sebastiania, Mimosa, Euphorbiaceae, Cactaceae, Parapiptadenia excelsa, Eupatorium, Cissus, Eucalyptus y Viguiera were identified as dominant resources. The variations of the breadth Index trophic niche show a floral resources selection for the area, where the use of native species stands out. The information produced in this study contributes to the knowledge of the resource offered by the forest and the species that are important for beekeeping production. Besides, it contributes to enhance the production and marketing of this product from its added value, allowing beekeepers a good management of hives. Rev. Biol. Trop. 66(3): 1182-1196. Epub 2018 September 01.

Melliferous insects and the uses assigned to their products in the northern Yungas of Salta, Argentina.

BACKGROUND: The order Hymenoptera comprises melliferous insects (bees, wasps and bumblebees); among them, stingless bees comprise a diverse group of eusocial insects present in tropical and subtropical areas. Of a total of approximately 500 species, 400 are found in the Neotropics. On the continent of America, before the introduction of Apis mellifera, these insects represented the main source of honey and wax. In Argentina, ethnobiological investigations had been carried out on this group of insects, principally in the Atlantic Forest and Chaco regions. Out of a total of 33 species, only 14 were recorded for use or breeding. In the Yungas, however, there are no ethnobiological studies analyzing this group of species, although the use of their products is mentioned in different ethnobotanical works. This paper studies the knowledge and uses of melliferous insects by the inhabitants of the village of Baritú and surrounding. METHOD: Information on location, management and duties assigned (e.g., preparation and administration) to deal with bee products like honey, pollen, wax and propolis was obtained through semi-structured interviews. Besides, reference material was collected to identify melliferous insects known and used in the region. RESULTS: Fifteen ethnospecies were identified and grouped locally according to their defensive behavior. The culturally most important species is the stingless bee Plebeia sp. nov.-mansita-, in terms of frequency of citations and diversity of uses, and among those that sting, the honeybee Apis mellifera-extranjera-. Honey, pollen, wax, and propolis of Plebeia sp. nov. had the highest current frequency of use. Honey is used in food (incorporated at pure state, as a complement and in drinks), as nutraceutical food and in medicinal preparations. In addition, it is an important resource for marketing during the warm season, infusions being the main mode of administration. Pollen is used as a supplement for food and alcoholic drinks, wax mainly in candle making, and propolis. CONCLUSION: The data obtained in this study complements the information available in ethnobotanical studies carried out in the region. The present study is the first on melliferous insects in the area. A new species of stingless bee the genus Plebeia was registered, and it was observed that the known distribution of others has increased.

Mother's Perception of Children's Motor Development in Southern Brazil.

Parents' perceptions of children's motor competence are important because they influence the way parents interact with their children to promote motor skills development. Thirty-six mothers of 16- to 66-month old children (61%, 22 boys and 39%, 14 girls, n = 36) estimated their child's performance while the child was being evaluated, by another trained researcher, with the same scale (Peabody Developmental Motor Scale 2nd Ed.) in a different room. Underestimations, accurate estimations, overestimations, and parental accuracy were investigated. Mothers overestimated significantly their child's stationary and locomotion skills and their GMQ and Total Motor Quotients (TMQ). Identical levels of motor performance were found in girls and boys, and estimation accuracy was similar for both genders. We discuss our results in the context of the parents' routines (little time interacting with children actively) and the relevance of their perceptions of the children's abilities as a further influence on the children's development and engagement in physical activities.

DNA damage and postural balance in multiple sclerosis patients / Dano ao DNA e equilíbrio postural de portadores de Esclerose Múltipla

Abstract Introduction: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by infiltration of inflammatory cells on the Central Nervous System (CNS). There is evidence that cumulative DNA damage can contribute to various mechanisms underlying MS lesions. Changes in postural balance are frequent observations in subjects with MS. Objective: Evaluated the DNA damage index (DDI)) and postural balance in patients with MS. Methods: A case-control study was conducted with 28 subjects matched for sex, age, and body mass index, divided into MS group and control. The DDI was assessed by comet assay and postural balance through recording the body oscillations of the center of pressure (COP), in the anterior-posterior and lateral middle directions. Results: Showed higher DDI in MS patients (21.3 ± 4.8) than controls (7.9 ± 6.1). Significant differences between groups were also noted in postural control parameters. The wider ranges of postural sway were observed in the MS group. The associations between DDI and postural control parameters showed weak, but significant correlations. No associations were found between DDI and time of diagnosis of MS. Conclusion: People with MS had higher DDI and larger body oscillations than healthy individuals.

Resumo Introdução: A Esclerose Múltipla (EM) é uma doença inflamatório crônica caracterizada pela infiltração de células inflamatórias no Sistema Nervoso Central (SNC). Há evidencias de que danos cumulativos ao DNA possam contribuir para vários mecanismos subjacentes às lesões da EM. As alterações no equilíbrio postural são observações frequentes nos sujeitos com EM. Objetivo: Este estudo avaliou os índices de dano ao DNA (ID) e equilíbrio postural em portadores de Esclerose Múltipla (EM). Métodos: Um estudo de caso-controle foi conduzido com 28 sujeitos pareados por sexo, idade e índice de massa corporal, divididos em grupo EM e controle. O ID foi avaliado pelo ensaio cometa e o equilibro postural através do registro das oscilações corporais relativas ao deslocamento centro de pressão (COP) nas direções antero posterior e médio lateral. Resultados: Maiores ID em portadores de EM (21,3 ± 4,8) do que controles (7,9 ± 6,1). Diferenças significativas entre os grupos também foram percebidas nos parâmetros do controle postural. As maiores amplitudes de oscilação foram observadas no grupo EM para ambas as direções. As associações entre o ID e parâmetros do controle postural apresentaram correlações fracas e significativas. Não foram encontradas associações entre ID e tempo de diagnóstico de EM. Conclusão: Portadores de EM apresentaram maior ID e maiores oscilações corporais do que controles saudáveis.

Efeitos da modelagem na aprendizagem da habilidade do chute em meninas / Effects modeling in ability of learning in girls

O objetivo do presente estudo foi verificar os efeitos da modelagem na aprendizagem da habilidade do chute em meninas, com média de idade de 7,6 ± 0,49 anos. A tarefa requeria que as participantes realizassem chutes em um arco de futsal com medidas de 110 x 90 cm. Foi utilizada uma bola de futebol (nº 4), indicada para idade, posicionada a uma distância de cinco metros até a goleira. Foram realizados, um pré-teste, aquisição com 20 tentativas de prática e retenção composta por cinco tentativas. As 33 participantes foram divididas igualmente em três grupos distintos (Instrução Verbal ­ IV; Instrução Verbal e Demonstração ­ IVD; Demonstração - DM), com cada grupo recebendo uma forma específica de instrução, as quais foram fornecidas antes da primeira tentativa, na fase de aquisição. Os resultados mostraram benefícios na utilização de demonstrações para a aprendizagem de uma tarefa de chute, em meninas (p=0,043). O uso de demonstrações, somada à prática, fez com que as meninas apresentassem maiores níveis de aprendizagem na tarefa. A partir dos resultados encontrados, evidencia-se a importância da utilização de métodos adequados no aprendizado de habilidades motoras.(AU)

The aim of this research was to investigate the effects of modeling in learning of a skill of kicking in girls with a mean age 7,6 ± 0,49 years. The task required the participants perform kicks in a target, 110 x 90 cm. A soccer ball was used (nº4), indicated for age, positioned at a distance of five meters to the target. A pre-test, acquisition with 20 trials of practice and retention composed of five trials were performed. The 33 participants were divided equally into three groups (Verbal Instruction ­ IV; Verbal Instruction and Demonstration ­ IVD; Demonstration - DM), with each group received a specific instruction, which was provided prior to the first trial, in the acquisition phase. The results showed benefits for DM group (p=0,043). The use of demonstrations outperformed the others two groups. Thus, it's clear the importance of appropriate methods for each age group.(AU)

Efeitos da prática de Jump no equilíbrio e no tempo de reação em mulheres / Effects of Jump on balance and reaction time in women

Introdução: A prática do Jump em academias de ginástica vem sendo muito procurada pelo público feminino. Objetivo: Verificar os efeitos da prática de Jumpno equilíbrio e no tempo de reação de mulheres. Métodos: Fizeram parte do estudo 12 mulheres com média de idade 22,9 ± 3,31 anos. As participantes foram submetidas a 16 sessões de Jump, com duração de 60 minutos, cada. As sessões de prática apresentaram exercícios variados, contendo movimentos de giros, mudança de direção e passos com apoio unipodal e bipodal, coreografados. Resultados: Foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significativas para o tempo de reação simples (t= 6,36; p= 0,000). Esses dados indicam que a prática sistemática de Jump, é benéfica para a diminuição do tempo de reação simples de mulheres. Conclusão: Apesar da não verificação de diferenças estatísticas, o TRE e o equilíbrio mostraram ser capacidades importantes para uma vida mais ativa fisicamente.

Introduction: The practice of Jump in gyms is being sought by the female audience. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Jump exercise on the balance and reaction time of women. Methods: Twelve women with a mean age of 22.9 ± 3.31 years participated in the study. They had sixteen-jump exercise sessions with a duration of 60 min. Movements used in all sessions varied changed in direction and steps with a single leg, and bipedal support was applied. Results: Statistically significant differences were observed only in the simple reaction time (t = 6.36, p = 0.000), indicating that Jump exercise can improve simple reaction time. As for the balance and choice reaction time, even though there was an improvement from pre to post tests, the results were not statistically significant. Conclusion: Although there were no statistical differences, choice reaction time and the balance proved to be important capabilities for a more physically active life.

Análise das oportunidades de estimulação motora em ambientes domiciliares na região central do Rio Grande do Sul / Analysis of the opportunities of motor stimulation in home environment in the central region of Rio Grande do Sul

Este estudo objetivou analisar a qualidade dos ambientes domiciliares na região central do Rio Grande do Sul para a ocorrência de oportunidades de estimulação motora. Fizeram parte do estudo 410 famílias de crianças com idades entre 18 e 42 meses. Para a avaliação foi utilizado o questionário "Affordances in the Home Enviroment for Motor Development Self-Report" - (AHEMD-SR) que aborda a qualidade e a quantidade de fatores no ambiente que são favoráveis à intensificação do desenvolvimento motor infantil. Foram utilizadas análises descritivas e os testes t para amostras independentes e ANOVA para comparação das médias. A análise dos dados evidenciou que as famílias com menor renda (p = 0,00) e cujos pais têm menor grau de instrução (p = 0,00) possuem lares que promovem menos oportunidades de estimulação motora às crianças. Os resultados menos satisfatórios foram em relação à provisão de materiais que estimulem o desenvolvimento da motricidade infantil no espaço externo das residências (entre 64,4% e 65,1% classificados como muito fraco). Conclui-se que, em grande parte das residências avaliadas, há uma carência na provisão de materiais que promovam a estimulação do desenvolvimento da motricidade infantil. O estudo dá fortes indícios que estas restrições podem ser decorrentes do baixo nível socioeconômico e grau de escolaridade das famílias pesquisadas

This study aimed to analyze the quality of home environments in the central region of Rio Grande do Sul to the occurrence of motor stimulation opportunities. Participants were 410 children aged between 18 and 42 months. For the assessment of home environments we used the Affordances in the Home Environment for Motor Development Self-Report - (AHEMD-SR). This instrument addresses the quality and quantity of factors of home environment that can enhance children's motor development. Descriptive analysis, t tests for independent samples and ANOVA were used to compare means. Data analysis showed that households with lower wages (p = 0.00) and whose parents have lower education (p = 0.00), have home environments that provide fewer opportunities for motor stimulation to children. The results were less satisfactory in relation to the provision of materials that encourage and stimulate children's motor development, on the external space of the residences (between 64,4% and 65,1% is classified as a very poor). It is concluded that there is a shortage in supply of materials that promote the stimulation of motor development in children, in most residences evaluated. The study provides strong evidence that these restrictions result from low socioeconomic and educational level of the families surveyed

Efeito do acompanhamento nutricional e treinamento físico em pessoas com síndrome metabólica / Effect of a nutritional program and exercise training in people with metabolic syndrome

Introdução: A síndrome metabólica é um transtorno que reúne um conjunto de fatores de risco cardiovasculares, acometendo boa parte da população acima de 40 anos. Alimentação inadequada e falta de exercícios físicos são consideradas precursores dessa síndrome. Objetivos: Avaliar os efeitos de duas intervenções distintas, programa de acompanhamento nutricional e programa de treinamento físico, em pessoas com síndrome metabólica. Métodos: Participaram do estudo 14 adultos, de ambos os sexos, com idade de 40 a 65 anos, divididos em dois grupos: grupo 1 – acompanhamento nutricional e grupo 2 – programa de exercícios físicos. Realizaram-se coletas no início da pesquisa e após 16 semanas de intervenção. Resultados: Houve redução significativa de massa corporal, IMC, circunferência da cintura, HDL e colesterol total, nos componentes do grupo 1. No grupo 2, não houve diminuições significantes. Conclusões: O acompanhamento nutricional gerou resultados positivos no perfil antropométrico, pressão arterial e perfil lipídico dos sujeitos após 16 semanas de intervenção.

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome is a disorder of a cluster of cardiovascular risk factors, affecting a considerable proportion of the population over 40 years. Objective: To evaluate the effects of two isolated interventions, a nutritional program and exercise training, in people with metabolic syndrome. Methods: The study included fourteen adults, both genders, aged between 40 and 65 years, who were divided into two groups: group 1 underwent a nutritional program, and group 2, a physical exercise program. Data were collected at baseline and after 16 weeks of intervention. Results: There was a significant reduction in body mass, BMI, waist circumference, HDL and total cholesterol, in the components of group 1. In group 2 there were no significant reductions. Conclusion: The nutritional program had positive effects in the anthropometric profile, blood pressure, and lipid profile after 16 weeks of intervention.