Effects of bioconversion by Battus polydamas on the chemical composition of Aristolochia spp. and evaluation of antimicrobial activity and biocompatibility.

Aristolochia plants are emblematic from an ethnopharmacological viewpoint and are know to possess numerous biological properties, including antiseptic. However, the medicinal potential of these species is debatable because of their representative chemical constituents, aristolochic acids (AAs) and aristolactams (ALs), which are associated, for instance, with nephropathy and cancer. These contrasting issues have stimulated the development of approaches intended to detoxification of aristoloquiaceous biomasses, among which is included the bioconversion method using larvae of the specialist phytophagous insect Battus polydamas, previously shown to be viable for chemical diversification and to reduce toxicity. Thus, eleven Aristolochia spp. were bioconverted, and the antimicrobial activities of the plant methanolic extracts and its respective bioconversion products were evaluated. The best results were found for Aristolochia esperanzae, Aristolochia gibertii, and Aristolochia ringens against Bacillus cereus, with MIC ranging from 7.8 to 31.25 µg/mL. These three species were selected for chemical, antioxidant, cytotoxic, hemolytic, and mutagenic analyses. Chemical analysis revealed 65 compounds, 21 of them possible bioconversion products. The extracts showed potential to inhibit the formation and degradation of B. cereus biofilms. Extracts of A. gibertii and its bioconverted biomass showed antioxidant activity comparable to dibutylhydroxytoluene (BHT) standard. Bioconversion decreased the hemolytic activity of A. esperanzae and the cytotoxicities of A. esperanzae and A. gibertii. None of the extracts was found to be mutagenic. The bioactivities of the fecal extracts were maintained, and biocompatibility was improved. Therefore, the results obtained in this study reveal positive expectations about the natural detoxification process of the Aristolochia species.

Behavior of neuropathy symptom score and neuropathy disability score in patients with and without peripheral diabetic neuropathy: A retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to stablish cut-off of early diagnosis of diabetic polyneuropathy (PDN) based on neuropathy symptom score (NSS) and neuropathy disability score (NDS); to determine the behavior of NDD and NDS in patients with and without PDN; and to verify the association between clinical and demographic variables with both tests. METHODS: This retrospective cohort included 86 patients with diabetes. The NSS and NDS evaluations were collected in medical records in two moments: initial (entry into service) and final (after three years). Individuals were categorized in three groups: G1- PDN in both evaluations (N = 27); G2- PDN only in the final evaluation (N = 16); G3-individuals without PDN (N = 43). A ROC curve was performed to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of NSS and NDS for PDN diagnosis. ANOVA was used to compare NSS and NDS between groups and evaluations, and multiple regression was performed to find predictors of PDN. RESULTS: The NSS and NDS showed excellent sensitivity and specificity (NDS ≥1.5 and NSS ≥6.5) for PDN diagnosis. There was a significant difference between groups in initial (p = 0.000) and final (p = 0.000) NDS and NSS evaluations. There was an association between peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and increase in NSS (p = 0.024) in G2; and association between loss of protective sensation (LOPS) and increase in NSS in G3 (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: NSS and NDS tests showed excellent sensitivity and specificity for early PDN diagnosis. Behavior of both tests can differ patients with and without PDN. Furthermore, PAD and LOPS can be a predictor of PDN evolution.

Factors Related to Recurrent Falls Among Older Adults Attending Primary Health Care: A Biopsychosocial Perspective.

The objective of this study was to investigate factors related to recurrent falls among older adults attending primary health care, considering the biopsychosocial perspective. A representative sample of 201 older adults were interviewed in three Primary Health Care units randomly selected in a city in southeastern Brazil. Outcome included self-report of two or more falls in the past 12 months. Exposures included personal and environmental aspects, according to domains of International Classification of Functioning of the World Health Organization (ICF-WHO). Recurrent falls were reported by 24.4% of the participants. Associations with depressive symptoms (p = .003), having osteoporosis (p = .031), chronic musculoskeletal pain (p = .020), frailty (p = .013), sleep satisfaction (p < .001), and functional status (p < .001) were found. In logistic regression models, cognitive status, musculoskeletal pain, and functional status were predictors of recurrent falls; however, only sleep satisfaction remained significant in the final model. Strategies aimed at preventing recurrent falls in primary health care should consider assessments and interventions targeting sleep aspects among older adults.

Antimicrobial metabolites produced by endophytic fungi associated with the leaves of Vochysia divergens.

Investigation of the endophytic fungi Nigrospora sphaerica, Nigrospora oryzae, and Pseudofusicoccum stromaticum MeOH fractions isolated from the leaves of Vochysia divergens, a medicinal species from the Brazilian Pantanal, led to the identification of five compounds, namely a new compound (1E,8Z)-10,11-dihydroxy-5,5,8-trimethyl-4-oxocycloundeca-1,8-diene-1-carbaldehyde (1) and four known compounds: 5-methylmellein (2), sclerone (3), daldinone A (4), and lasiodiplodin (5). All compounds were identified using spectroscopic methods, and 1 was corroborated with mass spectrometry, while the known compounds were compared with data in the literature. The relative configuration of compound 1 was determined based on theoretical conformational studies as well as the J experimental values between the hydroxymethyne hydrogens. The antimicrobial activity of the compounds was evaluated. Promising results were obtained for compounds 2, 4, and 5 since they inhibited the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa, an opportunistic pathogen, suggesting the potential of these microorganisms as a source of new antibacterial agents.

Anti-hyperglycemic potential and chemical constituents of Aristolochia triangularis Cham. leaves - A medicinal species native to Brazilian forests.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Aristolochia triangularis Cham. has been used in Brazilian traditional medicine for various therapeutic purposes, including as a leaf-based infusion for diabetes management. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study was designed to chemically characterize an infusion of in natura A. triangularis leaves and evaluate the in vivo anti-hyperglycemic properties of this infusion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Chemical composition was examined using liquid-liquid extraction procedure, chromatographic methods, NMR, and LC-MS/MS. The in vivo anti-hyperglycemic activity of the freeze-dried infusion of A. triangularis leaves (Inf-L-At) was assessed using oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Initially, normoglycemic male rats were pre-treated with orally administered Inf-L-At at doses of 62.5, 125, and 250 mg/kg for two consecutive days. On the day of the OGTT, fasting animals received a glucose load (4 g/kg) 30 min after treatment with Inf-L-At, and the blood glucose levels were verified at 15, 30, 60, and 180 min. Intestinal maltase, lactase, and sucrase activities and muscle and liver glycogen contents were also assessed after the OGTT. RESULTS: Inf-L-At extract led to glycemic reduction with no dose-response at 15, 30, and 60 min comparable to that of the antidiabetic drug glibenclamide and was accompanied by an increase in hepatic and muscle glycogen contents. Additionally, there was a significant statistically decrease in the in vitro activity of disaccharidases. Maltase and sucrase activities were inhibited at all doses, whereas lactase activity was inhibited only at 62.5 and 250 mg/kg. In total, 75 compounds were found in the infusion, including seven new ones, (7S*,8S*,7ꞌS*,8ꞌR*)-4,4ꞌ-dihydroxy-3,3ꞌ-dimethoxy-7,9ꞌ-epoxylignan-7ꞌ-ol; 4ꞌ-hydroxy-3ꞌ-methoxy-3,4-methylenedioxy-7,9ꞌ-epoxylignan-9,7ꞌ-diol; triangularisines A, B, and C; N-ethyl-N-methyl-affineine; and N-methyl pachyconfine, and one previously not described as a natural product, epi-secoisolariciresinol monomethyl ether. CONCLUSION: The results demonstrated the anti-hyperglycemic activity of the infusion from A. triangularis leaves and showed that it is a rich source of lignoids, alkaloids, and glycosylated flavonoids, which are known to exhibit antidiabetic effects and other biological properties that can be beneficial for patients with chronic hyperglycemia, thus certifying the popular use of this herbal drink.

Chemical composition and effects of ethanolic extract and gel of Cochlospermum regium (Schrank) Pilg. Leaves on inflammation, pain, and wounds.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Cochlospermum regium is well-known as "Algodãozinho do cerrado" in folk Brazilian medicine, and is used to fight infections, inflammation and skin disorders. AIM OF THE STUDY: To identify the phytochemical constituents and the effects of the ethanolic extract of C. regium leaves (EECR) on inflammation and pain, and the effects of C. regium gel (GEECR) on wound healing. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Animals were treated with EECR (30-300 mg/kg) or GEECR (1.25 and 2.5%) and studies were conducted using carrageenan-induced pleurisy and paw edema tests, formalin-induced pain model, and excision wound model. RESULTS: In total, 25 compounds, including quercitrin, methyl gallate, and 1,2,3,4,6-pentagalloylhexose, with highest detectability were identified. The treatments reduced leukocyte migration, nitric oxide production, protein extravasation, edema, mechanical hyperalgesia, pain in both phases (neurogenic and inflammatory), cold hypersensitivity, and improved wound closure and tissue regeneration. CONCLUSIONS: The present findings established the anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, and wound healing potential of the leaves of C. regium, confirming the potential therapeutic effect of this plant.

Biological potentialities and chemical composition of Tarenaya aculeata roots and stems

Plant extracts are rich in secondary metabolites responsible for numerous biological activities. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant, antibacterial and photoprotective potentials, toxicity and chemical composition of extracts and fractions of stems and roots of Tarenaya aculeata. Phytochemical analyses were performed at qualitative and quantitative levels to evaluate the classes of secondary metabolites. The sun protection factor (SPF) and antioxidant potentials were determined spectrophotometrically, the antibacterial activity was tested against seven bacteria and the toxicity was evaluated using Artemia salina assay. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, glycosides, tannins and saponins. The levels of phenolic compounds, tannins and alkaloids, SPF and antioxidant potentials showed greater results in the stem (SF) and root (RF) fractions in relation to the stem (SE) and root (RE) extracts. All samples exhibited a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity, with MIC values ranging from 31.25 to 250 Hg mL-1. SE, SF and RF caused mortality in A. salina larvae, with LC50 of 347.06, 34.71 and 85.39 ng mL-1, respectively, whereas RE was non-toxic. Thus, T. aculeata is rich in bioactive secondary metabolites, although further studies will be needed to characterize its chemical constituents and investigate their adverse effects.

Los extractos de plantas son ricos en metabolitos secundarios responsables de numerosas actividades biológicas. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar el potencial antioxidante, antibacteriano y fotoprotector, ademas de la toxicidad y la composición química de extractos y fracciones de tallos y raíces de Tarenaya aculeata. Se realizaron análisis fitoquímicos a nivel cualitativo y cuantitativo para evaluar las clases de metabolitos secundarios. El factor de protección solar (SPF) y los potenciales antioxidantes se determinaron espectrofotométricamente, la actividad antibacteriana se probó contra siete bacterias y la toxicidad se evaluó mediante el ensayo con Artemia salina. El tamizaje fitoquímico reveló la presencia de alcaloides, compuestos fenólicos, flavonoides, glucósidos, taninos y saponinas. Los niveles de compuestos fenólicos, taninos y alcaloides, SPF y potencial antioxidante mostraron mayores resultados en las fracciones de tallo (SF) y raíz (RF) en relación a los extractos de tallo (SE) y raíz (RE). Todas las muestras exhibieron actividad antibacteriana de amplio espectro, con valores de MIC que oscilaron entre 31,25 y 250 Hg mL-1. SE, SF y RF causaron mortalidad en larvas de A. salina, con CL50 de 347,06; 34,71 y 85,39 µg mL-1, respectivamente, mientras que RE no fue tóxico. Por tanto, T. aculeata es rica en metabolitos secundarios bioactivos, aunque se necesitarán más estudios para caracterizar sus componentes químicos e investigar sus efectos adversos.

Extratos vegetais são ricos em metabólitos secundários responsáveis por inúmeras atividades biológicas. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os potenciais antioxidante, antibacteriano e fotoprotetor, toxicidade e composição química de extratos e frações de caules e raízes de Tarenaya aculeata. Análises fitoquímicas foram realizadas em níveis qualitativo e quantitativo para avaliar as classes de metabólitos secundários. Fator de proteção solar (FPS) e potenciais antioxidantes foram determinados espectrofotometricamente, a atividade antibacteriana testada contra sete bactérias e a toxicidade avaliada pelo ensaio com Artemia salina. A triagem fitoquímica revelou a presença de alcaloides, compostos fenólicos, flavonoides, glicosídeos, taninos e saponinas. Os teores de compostos fenólicos, taninos e alcaloides, FPS e potencial antioxidante apresentaram maiores resultados nas frações caule (SF) e raiz (RF) em relação aos extratos de caule (SE) e raiz (RE). Todas as amostras exibiram atividade antibacteriana de amplo espectro, com valores de MIC variando de 31,25 a 250 µg mL-1. SE, SF e RF causaram mortalidade em larvas de A. salina, com LC50 de 347,06, 34,71 e 85,39 Hg mL-1, respectivamente, enquanto RE não foi tóxico. Portanto, T. aculeata é rico em metabólitos secundários bioativos, embora mais estudos sejam necessários para caracterizar seus constituintes químicos e investigar seus efeitos adversos.

Relações entre sedentarismo e mobilidade com e sem dupla tarefa em idosos usuários da atenção básica em saúde / Relationships between sedentarism and mobility with and without double task among older adult users of primary health care

Os efeitos do sedentarismo nos sistemas musculoesquelético e neuromuscular podem influenciar negativamente o desempenho dos idosos em atividades com dupla-tarefa, o que aumenta o risco de quedas, declínio funcional e morte. O objetivo foi investigar as relações entre sedentarismo e mobilidade com e sem dupla tarefa em idosos usuários da atenção básica em saúde. Trata-se de estudo transversal, com 139 idosos que frequentam três unidades matriciais de saúde aleatoriamente selecionadas, em Uberaba, Minas Gerais. O sedentarismo foi avaliado pelo International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), sendo classificados como sedentários os idosos inativos ou insuficientemente ativos. O estado cognitivo foi avaliado pela Prova Cognitiva de Leganés. A mobilidade com e sem dupla tarefa, bem como, a força muscular foram avaliadas por testes de desempenho físico. As características sociodemográficas e o número de medica- mentos foram avaliados por autorrelato. Os modelos multivariados foram testados por regressão linear múltipla em blocos, com intervalo de confiança de 95%. A maioria era mulheres (81,3%); idade média 66,96 (8,24) anos; 17,3% eram sedentários. Pior desempenho na mobilidade com dupla tarefa motora (p=0,040) e com dupla tarefa cognitiva (p=0,040) foi observado entre os idosos sedentários. O sedentarismo foi preditor de baixa mobilidade com dupla-tarefa motora e cognitiva controlado por variáveis sociodemográficas, entretanto, tais efeitos não se mantiveram após inclusão de variáveis de saúde. Não foram observadas relações entre sedentarismo e mobilidade sem dupla tarefa. Conclui-se que o sedentarismo influencia a mobilidade com dupla tarefa motora e cognitiva em idosos, porém outras condições de saúde podem interferir nessas relações.(AU)

The effects of sedentarism on the musculoskeletal and neuromuscular systems may negatively influence performance of older adults in dual-task activities, which increases risk of falls, functional decline, and death. The objective was to investigate the relationships between sedentarism and mobility with and without double tasks among older adult usersof primary health care. This is a cross-sectional study with 139 older adults from three health care units randomly selected in the city of Uberaba, Minas Gerais. Sedentarism was identified by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Inactive or insuf- ficiently active elderly individuals were classified as sedentary. Cognitive status was assessed by the Leganés Cognitive Test. Mobility with and without double tasks, as well as, muscle strength were assessed by physical performance tests. Sociodemographic characteristics and number of medications were assessed by self-report. Multiple linear regressions were performed in blocks, with 95% confidence interval. Most participants were women (81.3%); whose average age was 66.96 (8.24) years; 17.3% were sedentary. Poorer performance in mobility with double motor task (p = 0.040) and double cognitive task (p = 0.040) was observed among sedentary participants. In multivariate models, physical inactivity influenced the motor and cognitive double-tasks performance controlled by sociodemographic variables; however, such effects were not remained after inclusion of health variables. No relationships were observed between sedentarism and mobility without double tasks. In conclusion, sedentarism influences mobility with dual motor and cognitive tasks among older adults, but other health conditions may play a role in these relationships.(AU)

Cytotoxicity and the bioconversion strategy of Aristolochia spp

Aristolochia plants are notable from an ethnopharmacological viewpoint, but the relevance of these species for medicinal purposes has been debated because of their inherent toxicity. The convergence of these contrasting realities can be readily achieved using bioconversion methods, which have been shown to be useful tools for numerous applications, including the detoxification of biomass. In this context, methanolic extracts of leaves from Aristolochia triangularis and Aristolochia gibertii, as well as the feces of Battus polydamas larvae fed with leaves from these plants, were prepared, and their cytotoxic activities were evaluated on a human fibroblast cell line (GM07492). The leaf extracts were found to be cytotoxic, leading to reductions of 42.1 and 33.8% on cell viability, respectively, while the fecal extracts were considered inactive. In addition to evidencing the cytotoxicity of A. triangularis and A. gibertii, these findings demonstrated a potential bioconversion strategy for obtaining aristolochiaceous extracts with reduced toxicity using the larvae of a specialist phytophagous insect, thus renewing expectations in relation to the pharmacological importance of Aristolochia spp. The results were also ecologically relevant, as B. polydamas larvae were found to be able to detoxify compounds from host plants.(AU)

Antiproliferative Flavanoid Dimers Isolated from Brazilian Red Propolis.

Herein reported are results of the chemical and biological investigation of red propolis collected at the Brazilian Northeast coastline. New propolones A-D (1-4), with a 3-{3-[(2-phenylbenzofuran-3-yl)methyl]phenyl}chromane skeleton; propolonones A-C (5-7), with a 3-[3-(3-benzylbenzofuran-2-yl)phenyl]chromane skeleton; and propolol A (8), with a 6-(3-benzylbenzofuran-2-yl)-3-phenylchromane skeleton, were isolated as constituents of Brazilian red propolis by cytotoxicity-guided assays and structurally identified by analysis of their spectroscopic data. Propolone B (2) and propolonone A (5) display significant cytotoxic activities against an ovarian cancer cell line expressing a multiple drug resistance phenotype when compared with doxorubicin.

Sulphonates' mixtures and emulsions obtained from technical cashew nut shell liquid and cardanol for control of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae).

Aedes aegypti is the main mosquito vector of dengue, zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever diseases. The low effectiveness of vector control options is mainly related to the increased insect's resistance and to the toxicity of products used for non-target organisms. The development of new environmentally friendly and safer products is imperative. Technical cashew nut shell liquid (tCNSL), mostly composed by cardanol (C), is an abundant by-product of the cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) production chain, available at low cost, and with proven larvicidal activity. However, chemical modifications in both tCNSL and cardanol were required to increase their water solubilities. Our objectives were to synthesise and characterise sustainable, low-cost and easy-to-use multiple function products based on tCNSL, cardanol, and the sulphonates obtained from both; and to evaluate all these products efficacy as surfactants, larvicidal, and antimicrobial agents. None of the sulphonates presented antimicrobial and larvicidal activities. tCNSL and cardanol were successfully emulsified with sodium technical cashew nut shell liquid sulphonate (NatCNSLS, complex mixture of surfactants). The emulsions obtained presented larvicidal activity due to the presence of tCNSL and cardanol in their composition. Our results showed that the tCNSL+NatCNSLS mixture emulsion was an effective larvicide and surfactant multiple function product, with high availability and easy-to-use, which can facilitate its large-scale use in different environments. Graphical abstract.

Validação do Illinois Test Modificado para atletas de futebol de sete paralímpico / Validation Illinois Changed Test for paralympic athletes of football seven

O Futebol de sete Paralímpico é um dos principais esportes praticados por atletas com Paralisia Cerebral na atualidade. Seus benefícios variam da melhora da percepção pessoal à melhoria das condições físicas, sociais, psicológicas, motoras e as respostas fisiológicas. Entretanto, poucos são os testes que possam subsidiar a modalidade e a população no que se diz respeito a aptidão e capacidades físicas. O estudo teve por objetivo validar o teste de agilidade Illinois para atletas da modalidade de futebol de 7 paralímpico. A população foi composta por 16 atletas da seleção brasileira de futebol de 7 paralímpica, com idade entre 20 a 38 anos. A captação dos dados foi realizada por 3 avaliadores que utilizaram o Illinois Test modificado como principal ferramenta. Foram realizadas duas avaliações (testereteste) com 48 hs de intervalo com todos os atletas e avaliadores. Após as análises, foi possível observar que os atletas nos dois dias obtiveram resultados semelhantes, (média geral de todos os atletas incluindo teste-reteste) apresentando o tempo de 10,65 segundos. O melhor tempo foi de 9,62 e pior resultado foi de 14,30 segundos, demostrando assim o potencial de agilidade de toda a equipe. Não houve diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre os 3 avaliadores, o que demonstra alto nível de confiabilidade e replicabilidade do teste. O Illinois modificado para o futebol de 7 paralímpico pode ser usado como uma ferramenta de fácil aplicação, com objetivo de mensurar escores de agilidade de uma equipe, bem como ser usado para futuras comparações em modalidades semelhantes com outras pesquisas...(AU)

The Seven Paralympic Football is one of the main sports practiced by athletes with Cerebral Palsy nowadays. Its benefits range from improving personal perception to improving physical, social, psychological, motor and and physiological responses. However, few are the tests that can subsidize the modality and the population with respect to the aptitude and physical capacities. The study aimed to validate the Illinois Agility Test for athletes of the Football Seven a Side sport. The group of athletes was composed by 16 athletes of the Brazilian Football Seven a Side team, aged between 20 and 38 years. Three evaluators used the modified Illinois test as the main tool performed data collection. Two evaluations were performed (test-retest) with 48 hours intervals with all athletes and evaluators. After the analysis, it was possible to observe that the athletes, in two days obtained similar results, overall mean of all athletes including test-retest presenting the time of 10.65 seconds. The best time was 9.62 seconds and worst result was 14.30 seconds, thus demonstrating the agility potential of the whole team. There were no statistically significant differences among the 3 evaluators, which demonstrated a high level of reliability and use of the test. The modified Illinois test for Football Seven a Side can be used as an easy-to-apply tool with the goal of measuring a team's agility scores as well as being used for future comparisons in similar modalities with other surveys...(AU)

Efeitos intersetoriais e transversais e seus impactos sobre a efetividade das políticas públicas nos municípios do Ceará / Efectos intersectoriales y transversales y sus impactos sobre la efectividad de las políticas públicas en los municipios de ceará / Intersectoral and transversal effects and their impacts on the effectiveness of public policies in Ceara's municipalities

Resumo Identificar em quais circunstâncias a intersetorialidade e a transversalidade ocorrem no âmbito das políticas públicas se mostra fundamental para aumentar sua efetividade. Assim, este estudo integrou dois arcabouços teóricos relacionados à pobreza e à atratividade, visando a captar seus efeitos. A estimação econométrica com dados para os municípios cearenses evidenciou, por exemplo, que o crescimento econômico e as políticas públicas que o estimulam, além de favorecer a redução dos níveis de pobreza, também podem aumentar a atratividade de determinado município. Por outro lado, iniciativas que estimulam a urbanização e a requalificação dos espaços aumentam sua atratividade e, ainda, favorecem a redução da pobreza. Assim, ressalta-se a necessidade de pesquisar como as características do local e de sua população podem afetar a efetividade das políticas públicas.

Resumen Identificar en qué circunstancias la transversalidad y la intersectorialidad se producen en el contexto de las políticas públicas es esencial para aumentar su efectividad. Por ello, este estudio integró dos marcos teóricos relacionados con la pobreza y la atractividad, con el objetivo de captar sus efectos. La estimación econométrica con datos para los municipios de Ceará evidenció, por ejemplo, que el crecimiento económico y las políticas públicas que estimulan y favorecen la reducción de los niveles de pobreza también pueden aumentar la atractividad de un determinado municipio. Por otro lado, las iniciativas que fomentan la urbanización y la recalificación de espacios aumentan su atractividad y también ayudan a reducir la pobreza. Asimismo, se resalta la necesidad de investigar cómo las características del lugar y de su población pueden afectar la efectividad de las políticas públicas.

Abstract Identifying under what circumstances transversality and intersectoriality take place within the scope of public policies is fundamental to increase their effectiveness. Thus, two theoretical frameworks related to poverty and attractiveness were integrated, aiming to capture the existing effects. The econometric estimation with data for Ceara's municipalities showed, for example, that economic growth and the public policies that stimulate it, besides favoring the reduction of poverty levels, can also increase the attractiveness of a given municipality. On the other hand, initiatives that stimulate the urbanization and the requalification of spaces, increase their attractiveness and, also, favor the reduction of poverty. In addition, it was emphasized the need to investigate how the characteristics of the place and its population can affect the effectiveness of policies.

Assessing the Validity of the MyJump2 App for Measuring Different Jumps in Professional Cerebral Palsy Football Players: An Experimental Study.

BACKGROUND: Vertical jumps can be used to assess neuromuscular status in sports performance. This is particularly important in Cerebral Palsy Football (CP Football) because players are exposed to high injury risk, but it may be complicated because the gold standard for assessing jump performance is scarce in field evaluation. Thus, field techniques, such as mobile apps, have been proposed as an alternative method for solving this problem. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate the reliability of the measures of the MyJump2 app to assess vertical jump performance in professional CP Football. METHODS: We assessed 40 male CP Football athletes (age 28.1 [SD 1.4] years, weight 72.5 [SD 6.2] kg, and height 176 [SD 4.2] cm) through the countermovement jump (CMJ) and squat jump (SJ) using a contact mat. At the same time, we assessed the athletes using the MyJump2 app. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the instruments in SJ height (P=.12) and flight time (P=.15). Additionally, there were no significant differences between the instruments for CMJ in jump height (P=.16) and flight time (P=.13). In addition, it was observed that there were significant and strong intraclass correlations in all SJ variables varying from 0.86 to 0.89 (both P<.001), which was classified as "almost perfect." Similar results were observed in all variables from the CMJ, varying from 0.92 to 0.96 (both P ≤.001). CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that the MyJump2 app presents high validity and reliability for measuring jump height and flight time of the SJ and CMJ in CP Football athletes.

Toxicological properties of an aqueous extract of Aristolochia triangularis leaves, using the brine shrimp lethality and Allium cepa bioassays / Propriedades toxicológicas de um extrato aquoso de folhas de Aristolochia triangularis utilizando os bioensaios de letalidade com Artemia salina e Allium cepa

ABSTRACT: The aqueous extract of Aristolochia triangularis leaves showed activity against Artemia salina larvae, with an LD50 of 370.6 µg/mL. In experiments with Allium cepa seeds, the extract caused a 51.26% reduction in the germination index, inhibited mean root growth, and was cytotoxic at concentrations of 668 and 2,000 µg/mL. Its antioxidant activity was additionally assessed in this research and the ferric reducing antioxidant power value was found to be 391.2 µM/g. Such health-beneficial property can be attributed partly to the total phenolic content, spectrophotometrically determined as 52.67 mg/g. The occurrence of cytotoxicity suggested caution when consuming teas from A. triangularis leaves for medicinal purposes, and equally reveals the need for further studies to investigate their adverse effects.

RESUMO: O extrato aquoso de folhas de Aristolochia triangularis mostrou atividade sobre larvas de Artemia salina, com um DL50 de 370,6 µg/mL. Em experimentos com sementes de Allium cepa, o extrato provocou uma redução de 51,26% no índice de germinação, inibiu o crescimento radicular médio e foi citotóxico nas concentrações de 668 e 2.000 µg/mL. Sua atividade antioxidante foi adicionalmente avaliada nesta pesquisa e o valor de poder redutor de íons férrico foi de 391,2 µM/g. Tal propriedade benéfica para a saúde pode ser parcialmente atribuída ao conteúdo de compostos fenólicos totais, espectrofotometricamente determinada como 52,67 mg/g. A ocorrência de citotoxicidade sugeriu cautela ao consumir chás de folhas de A. triangularis para propósitos medicinais, e igualmente revela a necessidade por estudos adicionais para investigar os efeitos adversos deles.

Reduced Sympathetic Stimulus and Angiotensin 1-7 Are Related to Diastolic Dysfunction in Spinal Cord-Injured Subjects.

Chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) is often associated with reductions in left ventricular (LV) diastolic function. Impairments in sympathetic activity and activation of the renin-angiotensin system are reported in SCI individuals and may hypothetically be implicated in this association. Hence, the present study verified the relationship between these two neuro-hormonal and cardiac functional and structural characteristics in SCI individuals. Twenty-two men with SCI (injury level above T6 and no voluntary motion below the injury) and 11 able-bodied men were evaluated by clinical, hemodynamic, laboratory, and echocardiographic analysis and had plasmatic renin, angiotensin I (ANGI), angiotensin II (ANGII), angiotensin 1-7 (ANG1-7), and noradrenaline levels measured. SCI subjects had lower noradrenaline (p = 0.003) and higher ANG1-7 (p = 0.009), but similar renin, ANGI, and ANGII levels when compared with able-bodied individuals. In SCI individuals, results of multi-variable analysis showed that higher Em, a marker of better LV diastolic function, was directly associated with ANG1-7 (p = 0.05) or ANG1-7/ANGII ratio (p = 0.007), whereas lower noradrenaline levels were independently associated with worse LV diastolic function, as assessed by E/Em ratio (p = 0.028). In conclusion, these results suggest that reduced sympathetic activity and expression of ANG1-7 may be involved in SCI-related diastolic dysfunction.

Promessas e limites: o sisu e sua implementação na universidade federal de minas gerais / Promises and limits: sisu and its implementation at the federal university of minas gerais

RESUMO: Com base em dados disponibilizados pela própria universidade, o artigo investiga as implicações da adesão da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG) ao Sistema de Seleção Unificada (Sisu). Analisam-se basicamente três aspectos: o grau de eficiência alcançado na ocupação das vagas oferecidas no Sisu pela instituição, considerando-se os fenômenos da não matrícula de alunos aprovados e da evasão e da mudança de curso de parte dos matriculados; a possível diversificação do alunado em termos da origem geográfica; os possíveis efeitos do Sisu e da chamada Lei de Cotas sobre o perfil social dos alunos atendidos pela instituição. O artigo evidencia que a adesão ao Sisu está produzindo mudanças consideráveis na universidade. Argumenta-se que, para compreendê-las, é necessário considerar que o sistema induz os candidatos a um comportamento mais estratégico e que os submete a uma forte concorrência, inclusive no interior das diferentes modalidades de cotas.

ABSTRACT: Based upon data provided by the university itself, this paper investigates the implications of the adhesion to the Unified Selection System (Sisu) by Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG). The analysis considers three aspects. The first one is the degree of efficiency achieved in the occupation of the vacancies offered in Sisu by the university, considering the phenomena of the non-enrollment of approved students, the dropouts, and the changing courses by the enrolled students. The second one is the possible diversification of the student body, considering their geographical origin. Finally, the third one is the possible effects of Sisu and the so-called "Quota Law" (a form of affirmative action implemented in Brazil) on the social profile of the enrolled students. The article shows the significant changes that Sisu is producing in the university. It points out the need to consider that the system induces applicants to adopt a strategic behavior and that it submits them to a strong competition, even within the different kinds of quotas.

Characterization of the intensity of effort of blind athletes from the Brazilian Football 5-A-Side national team / Caracterização da intensidade de esforço dos atletas cegos da seleção brasileira de futebol de cinco

Introduction: Football 5-a-side is a sport played by blind athletes that takes part in the Paralympic Games since 2004. The Brazilian national team is currently considered the best team in the world in this sport. Objective: To analyze the variations of intensity of effort (average per position and group average) made by blind athletes of the Brazilian football 5-a-side national team during six matches simulations. Methods: The sample on this research is the intentional type, made with eight blind male players, ages ranging from 21 to 30 years old (23.8 ± 3.3), all of them part of the Brazilian Football 5-a-side National team, which played in the 2012 Paralympics Games in England. In was evaluated the VO2máx and the heart rate during six simulations of official matches. Results: The intensity of effort of the blind athletes of the Brazilian Football 5-a-side National Team is intermittent and remains 52.5 % of the total time of a match (50 minutes) with an intensity of effort between the zone 2 (between threshold ventilation and respiratory compensation point) and the zone 3 (above the respiratory compensation point) averaging 89.8 % of the HR max. Conclusion: The intensity of effort is greater than the Football of 11 and, that in the Futsal players. (AU)

Introdução: O Futebol de 5 é um esporte praticado por atletas cegos, que participa das Paraolimpíadas desde 2004. A seleção Brasileira foi considerada a melhor equipe do mundo nessa modalidade entre os anos de 2004 e 2016. Objetivo: analisar as variações da intensidade de esforço (média por posição e média do grupo) realizados pelos atletas cegos da Seleção Brasileira de Futebol de 5 durante seis simulações de partidas oficiais (coletivos). Métodos: A amostra desta pesquisa é do tipo intencional, constituída por oito jogadores cegos do sexo masculino, com idades que variam de 21 a 30 anos (23,8±3,3) convocados para a Seleção Brasileira de Futebol de 5, que disputaram as Paraolimpíadas na Inglaterra em 2012. Foram avaliados o VO2máx e a Frequência Cardíaca durante as seis simulações de partidas oficiais. Resultados: A intensidade de esforço dos atletas cegos da Seleção Brasileira de Futebol de 5 é intermitente por permanecer 52,5% do tempo total de uma partida desta modalidade (50 minutos) com intensidade de esforço entre as zonas 2 (entre o Limiar Ventilatório e o Ponto de Compensação Respiratória) e zona 3 (acima do Ponto de Compensação Respiratória), atingindo uma média de 89,8% da FC máx. Conclusão: A intensidade de esforço é maior que o Futebol de 11 e, que no Futsal. (AU)

Biologically active eremophilane-type sesquiterpenes from Camarops sp., an endophytic fungus isolated from Alibertia macrophylla.

Two new eremophilane-type sesquiterpenes, xylarenones F (3) and G (4), have been isolated from solid substrate cultures of a Camarops sp. endophytic fungus isolated from Alibertia macrophylla, together with the known compounds xylarenones C (1) and D (2). The structures and relative configurations of 1-4 were elucidated by extensive NMR and HRESIMS spectroscopic analysis. Due to their effects on the respiratory burst of neutrophils, which included inhibition of the reactive oxygen species production, these sesquiterpenes exhibited potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Antiprotozoal sesquiterpene pyridine alkaloids from Maytenus ilicifolia.

As part of a bioprospecting program aimed at the discovery of antiprotozoal agents from the Brazilian flora, two new sesquiterpene pyridine alkaloids, ilicifoliunines A (1) and B (2), along with the known alkaloids aquifoliunine E-I (3) and mayteine (4), were isolated from the root bark of Maytenus ilicifolia. The structures of 1 and 2 were established on the basis of spectroscopic data interpretation. Alkaloid 3 displayed potent in vitro antiprotozoal activity against Leishmania chagasi and Trypanosoma cruzi, with IC(50) values of 1.4 and 41.9 µM, respectively, as well as low cytotoxicity against murine peritoneal macrophages (IC(50) of 1.8 mM).