High and low pitch sound stimuli effects on heart-brain coupling.

This study aimed to explore the influence of sound stimulation on heart rate and the potential coupling between cardiac and cerebral activities. Thirty-one participants underwent exposure to periods of silence and two distinct continuous, non-repetitive pure tone stimuli: low pitch (110 Hz) and high pitch (880 Hz). Electroencephalography (EEG) data from electrodes F3, F4, F7, F8, Fp1, Fp2, T3, T4, T5, and T6 were recorded, along with R-R interval data for heart rate. Heart-brain connectivity was assessed using wavelet coherence between heart rate variability (HRV) and EEG envelopes (EEGE). Heart rates were significantly lower during high and low-pitch sound periods than in silence (p < 0.002). HRV-EEGE coherence was significantly lower during high-pitch intervals than silence and low-pitch sound intervals (p < 0.048), specifically between the EEG Beta band and the low-frequency HRV range. These results imply a differential involvement of the frontal and temporal brain regions in response to varying auditory stimuli. Our findings highlight the essential nature of discerning the complex interrelations between sound frequencies and their implications for heart-brain connectivity. Such insights could have ramifications for conditions like seizures and sleep disturbances. A deeper exploration is warranted to decipher specific sound stimuli's potential advantages or drawbacks in diverse clinical scenarios.

Autonomic nerve regulation in joint hypermobility patients with myofascial trigger points by Musculoskeletal Interfiber Counterirritant Stimulation (MICS).

Joint hypermobility (JH) conditions suggest dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system (ANS) (dysautonomia), associated with multifactor non-articular local musculoskeletal pain, and remains a complex treatment. This study aims to determine the effects of musculoskeletal interfiber counterirritant stimulation (MICS) as an innovative treatment of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) on the upper trapezius muscle in JH patients. We evaluate the ANS activity by wavelet transform spectral analysis of heart rate variability (HRV) in sixty women, equally divided: MTrP, MTrP + general joint hypermobility (GJH), and MTrP + joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS). The protocol phases were rest, stimulation, and recovery, with clinical and home treatment for three-days. All groups show a significantly decreased in pain perception during and post-treatment, and an increased parasympathetic ANS activity under MICS in the GJH and JHS groups. The variables low-frequency (LF) vs. high-frequency (HF) showed significant differences during the protocol phases, and the LF/HF ratio maintained a predominance of sympathetic activity (SA) throughout the protocol. The new MICS technique reduces the pain perception and modulates the ANS activity by an increase in vagal tone, and a decrease in sympathetic tone. This modulation was followed by an increase in the HRV in JH patients after treatment with MICS. Clinical Trials: RBR-88z25c5.

Spermine reduces the harmful effects of salt stress in Tropaeolum majus.

Flowers, leaves, fruits and buds of Tropaeolum majus are used for ornamental, medicinal and food purposes. However, salt stress limits the development and productivity of T. majus due to biochemical, physiological and anatomical disturbances. Polyamine application is an alternative for mitigating the harmful effects of salt stress. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of spermine application in T. majus grown under salt stress. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design, in a 3 × 2 factorial scheme, with 0, 40 mM (moderate salt stress) and 80 mM (severe salt stress) NaCl, and 0 and 1 mM spermine, and with five replicates. Growth (plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, number of flowers, number of buds, leaf dry mass, stem dry mass and flower dry mass), gas exchange (gs, A, E, Ci and WUE), relative water content, contents of free amino acids, phenolic compounds, reducing and non-reducing sugars, lipid peroxidation and enzymatic activities (CAT, POD and APX) were evaluated. Spermine application decreased the harmful effects of salt stress on the growth and gas exchange and increased flowering in T. majus. Furthermore, the relative water content of T. majus increased under severe salt stress conditions. Spermine application reduced the contents of total phenolic compounds, free amino acids, reducing sugars and non-reducing sugars on leaves of T. majus. Spermine application increased CAT and POD activities in plants under severe salt stress and POD and APX in plants under moderate salt stress.

Handmade solar dryer: an environmentally and economically viable alternative for small and medium producers.

The solar dryer can reduce production costs, energy consumption, waste (use fruits outside the quality standard for fresh consumption) and is an alternative for small and medium producers. The solar dryer can reduce costs and is an alternative for small and medium producers worldwide. The consumption of fresh and processed tomatoes is high in the world, but post-harvest losses is also and drying is an alternative to reduce these losses. The temperature maintenance and drying time corresponds 30% of the costs. The objective was evaluated the tomato physicochemical characteristics after drying in handmade solar dryer. 'Carmen' tomato fruits were bleached in water, 2.5% NaCl solution, 2.5% NaCl + 0.5% CaCl2 solution and unbleached. Tomato slices were placed in a handmade solar dryer from 7:00 to 17:00. The solar dryer prototype was wood made, comprising a collector and a drying chamber. The average cost of the camera was US$ 13.08 (1 Brazilian Real = 0.26 United States Dollar). Water loss, drying kinetics, mathematical models and physicochemical characteristics of fresh and dried tomatoes were evaluated. The average length of solar drying for the four treatments was 30 h and the Midilli and Kucuk mathematical model was the most adjusted. The acidity, reducing sugars and soluble solids were concentrated by drying, while ascorbic acid was reduced. The pH did not change. Tomatoes 'Carmen' can be dried in a handmade solar dryer for 30 h while maintaining product quality.

The use of a pre-workout supplement containing an amphetamine derivative and its effects on physical performance / Uso de suplemento pre-entrenamiento que contiene un derivado anfetamínico y sus efectos sobre el desempeño físico / Uso de suplemento pré-treino que contém um derivado anfetaminico e seus efeitos sobre o desempenho físico

ABSTRACT Introduction: The quest for better sports performance or simply for esthetic ends has led individuals to seek ergogenic resources indiscriminately to attain their goals. It is believed that nutritional supplements promote better strength, power, focus and better reaction time. Nutritional supplements are used to delay fatigue and increase athletic performance. Also, the anorectics, drugs derived from amphetamines and commonly sought for weight loss, act on the central nervous system by releasing substances that transmit the sensation of not being hungry. Supplements that promise quick solutions to these goals may have compounds in their formulas that compromise health. Objectives: In this study, the potential of creatine and Jack 3D® to boost physical performance and delay muscle fatigue was evaluated in animals that were given the supplements. Methods: The animals underwent 10 weeks of swim training at 80% of the maximum load and received creatine and/or Jack 3D. The muscle contractions were recorded by an electrophysiograph for analysis of muscle fatigue. Results: It was observed that the SED+CR group had significantly different values compared to the SED group and NAT+CR group showed significant differences between groups for the SED, SED+JACK, JACK, NAT and NAT+JACK groups (p <0.05). For the two last parameters, the SED group showed a significant difference in relation to the SED+CR, NAT and NAT+CR groups (p <0.05). Conclusions: These results demonstrate a possible positive influence of physical exercise associated with the use of creatine, delaying muscle fatigue and making an increase in sports performance possible. Level of Evidence III; Development of diagnostic criteria in consecutive patients (with "gold" reference standard applied) .

RESUMEN Introducción: La búsqueda por el mejor desempeño deportivo o simplemente para fines estéticos ha inducido a los individuos a buscar indiscriminadamente recursos ergogénicos para alcanzar el éxito. Se cree que la ingestión de suplementos nutricionales puede proporcionar mayor resistencia, potencia, enfoque y mejor tiempo de reacción. Los suplementos nutricionales son empleados para retardar el surgimiento de la fatiga y aumentar el desempeño atlético. También comúnmente buscados para adelgazamiento están los anorexígenos, medicamentos a base de drogas anfetamínicas, que actúan sobre el sistema nervioso central liberando sustancias que transmiten la sensación de ausencia de hambre. Los suplementos que prometen soluciones rápidas para estos objetivos pueden presentar en sus fórmulas, compuestos que comprometen la salud. Objetivo: En este estudio fue evaluado el potencial de la creatina y del Jack3D® para el desempeño físico y la fatiga muscular de los animales que recibieron la suplementación. Métodos: Los animales fueron sometidos a 10 semanas de entrenamiento de natación a 80% de la carga máxima y recibieron creatina y/o Jack3D. Las contracciones musculares fueron registradas por un electrofisiógrafo para análisis de la fatiga muscular. Resultados: Se observó que el grupo SED+CR presentó valores significativamente diferentes en comparación con el grupo SED y el grupo NAT+CR presentó diferencias significativas con relación a los grupos SED, SED+JACK, NAT y NAT+JACK (p < 0,05). En los dos últimos parámetros, el grupo SED presentó diferencia significativa con relación a los grupos SED+CR, NAT y NAT+CR (p < 0,05). Conclusión: Esos resultados demuestran una posible influencia positiva del ejercicio físico asociado al uso de la creatina, retardando la fatiga muscular y posibilitando un aumento en el desempeño deportivo. Nivel de evidencia III; Desarrollo de criterios diagnósticos en pacientes consecutivos (con estándar de referencia "oro" aplicado) .

RESUMO Introdução: A busca pelo melhor rendimento esportivo ou simplesmente para fins estéticos tem induzido indivíduos a procurarem indiscriminadamente recursos ergogênicos para atingir o êxito. Acredita-se que a ingestão de suplementos nutricionais pode proporcionar maior resistência, potência, foco e melhor tempo de reação. Os suplementos nutricionais são empregados afim de retardar o surgimento da fadiga e aumentar o desempenho atlético. Também comumente procuradas para emagrecimento estão os anorexígenos, medicamentos à base de drogas anfetamínicas, que agem sobre o sistema nervoso central liberando substâncias que transmitem a sensação de ausência de fome. Suplementos que prometem soluções rápidas para estes objetivos podem conter em suas fórmulas compostos que comprometem a saúde. Objetivos: Neste estudo foi avaliado o potencial da creatina e do Jack 3D®para o desempenho físico e fadiga muscular dos animais que receberam a suplementação. Métodos: Os animais foram submetidos a 10 semanas de treinamento de natação a 80% da carga máxima e receberam creatina e/ou Jack 3D. As contrações musculares foram registradas por um eletrofisiógrafo para análise da fadiga muscular. Resultados: Observou-se que o grupo SED+CR apresentou valores significativamente diferentes em comparação com o Grupo SED e o Grupo NAT+CR apresentou diferenças significativas com relação aos grupos SED, SED+JACK, NAT e NAT+JACK (p < 0,05). Nos dois últimos parâmetros, o Grupo SED apresentou diferença significativa com relação aos grupos SED+CR, NAT e NAT+CR (p < 0,05). Conclusão: Esses resultados demonstram uma possível influência positiva do exercício físico associado ao uso da creatina, retardando a fadiga muscular e possibilitando um aumento no desempenho esportivo. Nível de Evidência III; Desenvolvimento de critérios diagnósticos em pacientes consecutivos (com padrão de referência "ouro" aplicado) .

Secondary protein in the muscle of exercised rats that received creatine supplementation / Proteína secundaria en el músculo de ratones ejercitados que recibieron suplemento de creatina / Proteína secundária no músculo de ratos exercitados que receberam suplemento de creatina

ABSTRACT Introduction: Currently there is a lack of clarity around the use of Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy to analyze the effect of creatine (Cr) supplementation on the secondary structures of skeletal muscle tissue protein subjected to exercise. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the spectral characteristics of the tibialis anterior muscle in rats subjected to exercise in a pool and to Cr supplementation. Methods: Experiment 1. First, an experiment was conducted to ensure that FT-IR would be able to detect change in the secondary structures of skeletal muscle tissue protein in the group of sedentary rats (SED) and in the group of rats that received creatine supplementation (CRE). Experiment 2. Next, the effect of physical exercise on the spectral characteristics of muscle tissue, especially when compared to the groups without exercise practice, was examined. Results: It was possible to verify that the peaks centered on 1658 cm-1 (amide I) and 1546 cm-1 (amide II) are characteristic spectra and indicated as markers of protein content. Conclusion: Thus, FT-IR spectroscopy proved to be able to monitor changes in secondary structures of skeletal muscle protein in both animals that received supplements and in those subjected to exercise and both cases reconciled. Furthermore, the FT-IR technique proved to be a viable method for the nondestructive evaluation of skeletal muscle protein structures. Level of evidence II, Investigation of treatment results.

RESUMEN Introducción: Actualmente, no hay claridad en lo que se refiere al uso de la técnica de espectroscopia de Infrarrojo con transformada de Fourier (FT-IR) para análisis del efecto de la suplementación de creatina (Cr) sobre las estructuras secundarias de la proteína del tejido muscular esquelético sometido a ejercicio. Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar las características espectrales del músculo tibial anterior de ratones sometidos a ejercicio en piscina y a la suplementación con Cr. Métodos: Experimento 1. En primer lugar, fue realizada una experiencia para asegurar que la FT-IR sería capaz de detectar la variación en las estructuras secundarias de la proteína del tejido muscular esquelético en el grupo de ratones sedentarios (SED) y el grupo de ratones que sólo recibieron suplemento de creatina (CRE). Experimento 2. A continuación, fue examinado el efecto del ejercicio físico sobre las características espectrales del tejido muscular, especialmente cuando comparado con los grupos sin práctica de ejercicio. Resultados: Fue posible verificar que los picos centrados en 1658 cm−1 (amida I) y 1546 cm−1 (amida II) son espectros característicos e indicados como marcadores del tenor proteico. Conclusión: Siendo así, la técnica de espectroscopia de FT-IR mostró ser capaz de monitorizar las variaciones en las estructuras secundarias de la proteína del tejido muscular esquelético, tanto en animales que recibieron suplementos, como en los que fueron sometidos a ejercicio y ambos casos conciliados. Además, la técnica FT-IR probó ser un método viable para la evaluación no destructiva de las estructuras proteicas en el músculo esquelético. Nivel de evidencia II, Investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

RESUMO Introdução: Atualmente, não há clareza no que diz respeito ao uso da técnica de espectroscopia de infravermelho com transformada de Fourier (FT-IR) para análise do efeito da suplementação de creatina (Cr) sobre as estruturas secundárias da proteína do tecido muscular esquelético submetido a exercício. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as características espectrais do músculo tibial anterior de ratos submetidos a exercício em piscina e à suplementação com Cr. Métodos: Experimento 1. Em primeiro lugar, foi realizada uma experiência para assegurar que a FT-IR seria capaz de detectar a variação nas estruturas secundárias da proteína do tecido muscular esquelético no grupo de ratos sedentários (SED) e no grupo de ratos que só receberam suplemento de creatina (CRE). Experimento 2. Em seguida, foi examinado o efeito do exercício físico sobre as características espectrais do tecido muscular, especialmente quando comparado com os grupos sem prática de exercício. Resultados: Foi possível verificar que os picos centrados em 1658 cm−1(amida I) e 1546 cm−1(amida II) são espectros característicos e indicados como marcadores do teor proteico. Conclusão: Assim sendo, a técnica de espectroscopia de FT-IR mostrou ser capaz de monitorar as variações nas estruturas secundárias da proteína do tecido muscular esquelético tanto em animais que receberam suplementos, quanto nos que foram submetidos a exercício e ambos os casos conciliados. Além disso, a técnica FT-IR provou ser um método viável para a avaliação não destrutiva de estruturas proteicas no músculo esquelético. Nível de evidência II, Investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

Effect of creatine and sildenafil citrate on the physical performance of mice / Efecto de la creatina y del citrato de sildenafil sobre el desempeño físico de ratones / Efeito da creatina e do citrato de sildenafila sobre o desempenho físico de camundongos

ABSTRACT Introduction: The use of substances to enhance sports performance among professional and amateur athletes is increasing. Such substances may either be included in the group of dietary supplements or fall into pharmacological classes. Every substance used for this purpose is called an ergogenic agent. The number of ergogenic options available increases every day, favoring overuse and use without proper guidance. Among the dietary supplements, we highlight the use of creatine, a substance widespread in sports. Among the pharmacological groups, many drugs are used. Recently the use of sildenafil citrate by professional athletes from various predominantly aerobic sports modalities was reported in the media. Objective: To compare and demonstrate the responses caused by physical training associated with the use of creatine and sildenafil citrate in mice. Methods: A swim training protocol was applied and then an electrophysiograph was used in order to obtain parameters related to contraction intensity, the area under the curve and the percentage drop. Results: The responses obtained demonstrated the ergogenic action of creatine because it altered the parameters used for measurement. The use of sildenafil citrate did not yield satisfactory results to frame the drug as an ergogenic agent. Conclusion: Creatine has an ergogenic effect, reducing the percentage drop after 10 seconds, while sildenafil demonstrated no ergogenic potential and, interestingly, resulted in weaker responses when compared to the exercise groups. Evidence level II; Comparative prospective study .

RESUMEN Introducción: El uso de sustancias con el objetivo de aumentar el rendimiento deportivo entre atletas profesionales y amateurs es creciente. Tales sustancias pueden formar parte del grupo de suplementos alimentarios o integrar clases farmacológicas. Toda sustancia empleada para ese fin es denominada agente ergogénico. El número de opciones entre los agentes ergogénicos aumenta cada día, favoreciendo así su uso excesivo y sin la debida orientación. Entre los suplementos alimentarios, se destaca el uso de creatina, sustancia muy difundida en el medio deportivo. Ya entre los grupos farmacológicos, muchas sustancias son usadas. Recientemente, fue divulgado entre los medios de comunicación el uso de citrato de sildenafil por atletas profesionales, de varias modalidades deportivas, predominantemente las aeróbicas. Objetivos: Comparar y demostrar las respuestas ocasionadas por el entrenamiento físico, asociadas al uso de creatina y citrato de sildenafil en ratones. Métodos: Se aplicó un protocolo de entrenamiento de natación y, a continuación, se usó un electrofisiógrafo con el objetivo de obtener parámetros referentes a la intensidad de contracción, al área bajo la curva y a la caída porcentual. Resultados: Las respuestas obtenidas demuestran acción ergogénica de la creatina, visto que alteraron los parámetros empleados para la medición. Ya el uso de citrato de sildenafil no presentó resultados satisfactorios para encuadrar al fármaco como agente ergogénico. Conclusión: La creatina presenta efecto ergogénico porque reduce la caída porcentual después de 10 segundos, mientras que el sildenafil no presentó potencial ergogénico y, curiosamente, demostró respuestas inferiores cuando comparado a los grupos de ejercicio. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudio prospectivo comparativo .

RESUMO Introdução: O uso de substâncias com o objetivo de aumentar o rendimento esportivo entre atletas profissionais e amadores é crescente. Tais substâncias podem fazer parte do grupo de suplementos alimentares ou integrar classes farmacológicas. Toda substância empregada para esse fim é denominada de agente ergogênico. O número de opções entre os agentes ergogênicos aumenta a cada dia, favorecendo assim o uso em demasia e sem a devida orientação. Entre os suplementos alimentares, salientamos a utilização de creatina, substância muito difundida no meio esportivo. Já entre os grupos farmacológicos, muitas substâncias são utilizadas. Recentemente, foi divulgado entre os meios de comunicação o uso de citrato de sildenafila por atletas profissionais de várias modalidades esportivas, predominantemente as aeróbicas. Objetivos: Comparar e demonstrar as repostas ocasionadas pelo treinamento físico, associadas ao uso de creatina e citrato de sildenafila em camundongos. Métodos: Aplicou-se um protocolo de treinamento de natação e, a seguir, empregou-se um eletrofisiógrafo com objetivo de obter parâmetros referentes à intensidade de contração, à área sob a curva e à queda percentual. Resultados: As respostas obtidas demonstram ação ergogênica da creatina, visto que alteraram os parâmetros empregados para a mensuração. Já a utilização de citrato de sildenafila não apresentou resultados satisfatórios para enquadrar o fármaco como agente ergogênico. Conclusão: A creatina apresenta efeito ergogênico porque reduz a queda percentual após 10 segundos, já a sildenafila não apresentou potencial ergogênico e, curiosamente, demonstrou respostas inferiores quando comparado aos grupos de exercício. Nível de evidência II; Estudo prospectivo comparativo .

Ideal temperature and storage period for commercial potato cultivars selected for frying / Temperatura e período de armazenamento ideais para cultivares comerciais de batata selecionadas para fritura

ABSTRACT: Potatoes for industrial processing must have high dry matter, low sugar and free from damage or disease. The objective was to determine the ideal temperature and storage period of commercial cultivars for frying. Tubers of Asterix and Cronos cultivars were stored in a cold chamber (Gallant CMC4 Premium) inside plastic boxes at 6 and 8 °C with 85 to 95% humidity for 180 days. Accumulated mass loss (PMA), alcohol insoluble solids (SIA), total soluble sugars (AST), non-reducing sugars (ANR), reducing sugars (AR), polyphenoloxidase activity (PPO) and enzymatic and non-enzymatic browning were analyzed. The PMA of Asterix at 6 and 8 ºC and Cronos at 6 °C was higher. The SIA of both cultivars stored at 6 ºC were lower and AST, AR and ANR higher. Those parameters of Cronos and Asterix did not differ between temperature or storage period. The browning was greater in the fried sticks of Asterix and Cronos stored at 6 ºC (4 to 5) for 60 and 90 days and at 8 °C (2 to 3) for 180 days, respectively. The ideal temperature and storage period for Asterix and Cronos cultivars is 8 ºC for a maximum of 120 days due to non-enzymatic browning.

RESUMO: As batatas destinadas ao processamento industrial devem ter alto teor de matéria seca, baixo teor de açúcar e estar livre de danos ou doenças. O objetivo foi determinar a temperatura e o período de armazenamento ideais para cultivares comerciais para fritura. Os tubérculos das cultivares Asterix e Cronos foram armazenados em caixas de plástico a 6 e 8 °C com umidade de 85 a 95% por 180 dias. As perdas de massa acumulada (PMA), sólidos insolúveis em álcool (SIA), açúcares solúveis totais (AST), açúcares não redutores (ANR), açúcares redutores (AR), atividade de polifenoloxidase (PPO) e escurecimento enzimático e não enzimático foram analisadas. A PMA de tubérculos da cultivar Asterix a 6 e 8 ºC e a da cultivar Cronos, armazenadas a 6 °C foram maiores. Os teores de SIA foram menores e os de AST, AR e ANR maiores nos tubérculos de ambas as cultivares armazenadas a 6 ºC. A temperatura e o período de armazenamento não afetaram as cultivares Cronos e Asterix. O escurecimento foi maior nos palitos fritos das cultivares Asterix e Cronos armazenados a 6 ºC (4 a 5) por 60 e 90 dias e a 8 °C (2 a 3) por 180 dias, respectivamente. O período ideal de temperatura e armazenamento para as cultivares Asterix e Cronos é de 8 ºC por, no máximo, 120 dias devido ao escurecimento não enzimático.

Green leaves and seeds alcoholic extract controls Sporobulus indicus germination in laboratory conditions.

High seed production makes Sporobolus indicus var. pyramidalis a difficult to control invasive grassland plant. The objective of the present study was to investigate the bioactivity of Cyperus rotundus, Phyllanthus tenellus and Ricinus communis green leaf extracts and of Carica papaya seeds on S. indicus germination without breaking dormancy, simulating the field conditions. The ethanolic extract bioactivity of C. rotundus, P. tenellus, R. communis green leaves and C. papaya seeds, at concentrations of 25, 50 and 75% in S. indicus germination was evaluated. Carotenoids, flavonoids, soluble phenolic compounds and total tannins were quantified in the extracts. The chemical component concentrations varied between alcoholic extracts. The P. tenellus extracts at all dilutions and those of R. communis and C. papaya at 75% completely suppressed S. indicus seed germination at five and ten days which can be attributed to their high tannin concentration, total phenolic compounds and flavonoids.

Healing of Gladioulus grandiflora corms and Fusarium oxysporum infection.

Gladiolus grandiflorus L. is highly susceptible to Fusarium and losses caused by this disease varies from 60% to 100%. Injuries caused during harvest, transport and inadequate storage, facilitate infection. The dynamics of wound healing can reduce infection by Fusarium. The objective was to characterize the wound healing in corms of G. grandiflora stored under refrigeration and how it affects the entry and establishment of F. oxysporum f. sp. gladioli infection. Corms were wounded and stored at 12 ± 4°C and relative humidity of 90 ± 5%. Cell damage, fresh weight loss, respiration, phenolic compounds, tissue darkening, suberization, lignification and resistance to infection were evaluated. Wounds on corms caused transepidermal damage with collapse and cell death. Physiological (increased loss of mass and respiration) and biochemical changes (deposition of lignin and suberin, enzymatic activity) occurred in the cells neighboring those death by the injury. The injury caused gradual darkening of the tissue, injured and neighbor. Fusarium oxysporum infection decreased with wound healing. The healing of injured G. grandiflora corms stored at 12ºC occurs from the 3rd day after injury by the accumulation of suberin, lignin, and melanin, inhibiting F. oxysporum f. sp. gladioli infection.

Genetic divergence of native palms of Oenocarpus distichus considering biometric fruit variables.

Oenocarpus distichus presents economic, ecological, and dietary potential for pulp market processed in natura. Germplasm conservation and genetic improvement depend on genetic divergence studies. The objective was to quantify genetic divergence in a native population of O. distichus genotypes based on fruit biometrics. The fruit length and width, fruit mass, pulp and seed, pulp and almond thickness, and pulp yield per fruit were evaluated. All fruit biometric characteristics of O. distichus palms show genetic variability. Genetic variations among genotypes are essential for predicting heredity and heterosis, which are essential for improving O. distichus production. Pulp yield and seed mass were negatively correlated. Almond thickness and pulp, seed mass and transverse diameter were positively correlated. Genetic distances between pair of genotypes ranged from 0.07 to 48.10 with three genetically distinct groups. The seed mass, almond thickness and transverse diameter contributed to genetic divergence. Heritability estimates the genetic control that can be obtained from O. distichus germplasm. Correlations between the variable pair reduce the evaluation effort and the resources to measure the genotype allocations in heterogeneous groups presenting high genetic variability. This makes it possible to select individuals for hybridization programs with F1 generation gains. Correlation and relative contribution networks, based on relationships graphical between fruit biometric characteristics, allow the variables selection with less effort and fewer measurements. O. distichus fruit biometric characters are efficient to quantify genetic divergence between genotypes.

Ripening of bananas using Bowdichia virgilioides Kunth leaves.

Bananas are usually ripened with calcium carbide (CaC2), a dangerous substance that can cause food poisoning. The objective was to test the empirical ripening banana method using Bowdichia virgilioides leaves compared to carbide. Ripening tests were carried out using 'Pacovan' banana fruits with B. virgilioides leaves and carbide following the empirical method used by Borborema farmers, Paraíba, Brazil. Bowdichia virgilioides leaves induced increased respiration and ascorbic acid production and reduced acidity, chlorophyll and pH in banana fruits like CaC2. Leaves of B. virgilioides induce ripening of 'Pacovan' banana with safer and same results than with CaC2.

Comparison of aerobic power and capacity between athletes from different sports / Comparaçao da potência e capacidade aeróbica entre atletas de alto rendimento de diferentes modalidades esportivas / Comparación de potencia y capacidad aeróbica entre atletas de alto rendimiento de diferentes modalidades deportivas

INTRODUCTION: Ergospirometry is a noninvasive procedure used to assess physical performance or the capacity of an individual, through an analysis of expired gases and respiratory variables. This procedure is crucially important in sports, and makes a significant contribution to the measurement of cardiorespiratory fitness indices, such as maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) and the anaerobic threshold (AT). OBJECTIVE: To assess aerobic capacity and potency in professional and junior soccer players, handball athletes, and women soccer players. METHODS: Forty-eight athletes participated voluntarily and were divided into 4 groups. The first group consisted of 12 youth soccer players in the under-20 category, the second group was made up of 12 professional soccer players, the third group was made up of female soccer players, and the fourth group consisted of handball players. RESULTS: We analyzed values such as peak VO2, average speed and heart rate at the anaerobic threshold as well as pulmonary ventilation. We found that the values were always greater for the group formed by professional soccer players, with the exception of mean maximum O2 consumption, in which the difference between this group and that of soccer players in the junior category was not significant. In other physical valences, there was a degree of similarity between the other groups, with special emphasis on pulmonary ventilation, which was significantly lower in the group of female soccer players. CONCLUSION: The particularities of each sport, such as pitch dimensions, duration, and tactical system, together with the morphology and sex of the athletes, directly influence peak VO2, AT and VE values in athletes who play different sports. Level of Evidence III; Development of diagnostic criteria in consecutive patients (with gold reference standard applied).

INTRODUÇÃO: A ergoespirometria é um procedimento não invasivo, utilizado para avaliar o desempenho físico ou a capacidade de um indivíduo, pela análise de gases espirados e variáveis respiratórias. No esporte, é de fundamental importância e traz significativa contribuição na verificação de índices de aptidão cardiorrespiratória, como é o caso do consumo máximo de oxigênio (VO2 máx.) e do limiar anaeróbico (LA). OBJETIVO: Avaliar a potência e a capadidade aeróbica em atletas profissionais e juniores do futebol, atletas de handebol e mulheres futebolistas. MÉTODOS: Participaram voluntariamente 48 atletas divididos em 4 grupos. O primeiro grupo foi composto por 12 jovens futebolebolistas na categoria sub-20, o segundo grupo era formado por 12 futebolistas profissionais, o terceiro grupo foi formado por futebolistas do sexo feminino e o quarto grupo, por atletas de handebol. RESULTADOS: Foram analisados valores como pico de VO2, velocidade média e frequência cardíaca do limiar anaeróbico, além da ventilação pulmonar; verificaram-se valores sempre maiores para o grupo formado por jogadores de futebol profissional com exceção do valor médio de consumo máximo de O2, no qual a diferença para futebolistas da categoria juniores não foi significativa. Em outras valências físicas, houve alguma semelhança entre os demais grupos, com destaque para a ventilação pulmorar, que foi significativamente menor no grupo de futebol feminino. CONCLUSÃO: As especificidades da modalidade, como dimensões do campo de jogo, tempo de duração, sistema tático, em conjunto com a morfologia e o sexo dos atletas influenciam diretamente os valores de VO2 pico, LA e VE nos atletas de diferentes modalidades. Nível de Evidência III; Desenvolvimento de critérios diagnósticos em pacientes consecutivos (com padrão de referência "ouro" aplicado).

INTRODUCCIÓN: La ergoespirometría es un procedimiento no invasivo, utilizado para evaluar el desempeño físico o la capacidad de un individuo, utilizando análisis de gases espirados y variables respiratorias. En el deporte, es de fundamental importancia y trae significativa contribución en la verificación de índices de aptitud cardiorrespiratoria, como es el caso del consumo máximo de oxígeno (VO2 máx.) y el umbral anaeróbico (UA). OBJETIVO: Evaluar la potencia y la capacidad aeróbica en atletas profesionales y juveniles de fútbol, atletas de hándball y mujeres futbolistas. MÉTODOS: Participaron voluntariamente 48 atletas divididos en 4 grupos. El primer grupo fue compuesto por 12 jóvenes futbolistas en la categoría sub-20, el segundo grupo era formado por 12 futbolistas profesionales, el tercer grupo fue formado por futbolistas del sexo femenino, y el cuarto grupo por atletas de hándball. RESULTADOS: Se analizaron valores como pico de VO2, velocidad promedio y frecuencia cardíaca del umbral anaeróbico, además de la ventilación pulmonar; se verificaron valores siempre mayores para el grupo formado por jugadores de fútbol profesional con excepción del valor promedio de consumo maximo de O2 donde la diferencia para futbolistas de la categoría junior no fue significativa. En otras valencias físicas hubo cierta semejanza entre los demás grupos, pudiendo ser destacada la ventilación pulmonar, que fue significativamente menor para el grupo de fútbol femenino. CONCLUSIÓN: Las especificidades de la modalidad, como dimensiones del campo de juego, tiempo de duración, sistema táctico, en conjunto con la morfología y sexo de los atletas influyen directamente en los valores de VO2 pico, UA y VE en los atletas de diferentes modalidades. Nivel de Evidencia III; Desarrollo de criterios diagnósticos en pacientes consecutivos (con patrón de referencia "oro" aplicado).

Geotechnology in the analysis of forest fragments in northern Mato Grosso, Brazil.

Pasture implantation fragments and reduces the Amazonian forest area. The objective was to quantify landscape changes in 1985, 2000 and 2015 in northern Mato Grosso, Brazil. The study was carried out in three scenes obtained by the LANDSAT satellite of a microbasin (2742.33 ha) in the municipality of Alta Floresta. Forest, water bodies, pasture and exposed soil were the thematic classes determined to e mapping the land use evolution. The edge, density and shape indexes of the fragments were measured. Normalized vegetation difference (NDVI) values were high in 1985. Land use and occupation over 15 years (1985-2000) reduced forest cover by 69.8%, but it increased by 1.7% over the next 15 years (2000-2015). The number of exposed soil patches increased between the periods, but the total area and number of the patches of the forest fragments decreased. The high values of NDVI in 1985 showed vegetated areas with high density. Reducing forest cover decreases the size of the fragments, increases the isolation and the number of soil patches exposed. The mapping of land use showed a reduction of the Amazon forest in the microbasin in the north of Mato Grosso, in the years 2000 and 2015 compared to 1985.

Local and hematological alterations induced by Philodryas olfersii snake venom in mice.

Envenomation by the South American opisthoglyphous snake Philodryas olfersii causes local pain, edema, erythema and ecchymosis; systemic envenomation is rare. In this work, we examined the inflammatory activity of P. olfersii venom (10, 30 and 60 µg) in mouse gastrocnemius muscle 6 h after venom injection. Intramuscular injection of venom did not affect hematological parameters such as red cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration. The venom caused thrombocytopenia (at all three doses), leukopenia and lymphopenia (both at the two highest doses), as well as neutrophilia (30 µg), monocytosis (30 µg) and basophilia (10 µg). Of the cytokines that were screened [IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-10, IL-13, IL-17, TNF-α, IFN-γ, MIP-2 and KC] and IGF-1, only IGF-1 showed a significant increase in its circulating concentration, seen with 60 µg of venom; there were no significant changes in the cytokines compared to control mice. Histological analysis revealed the presence of edema, an inflammatory infiltrate and progressive myonecrosis. Edema and myonecrosis were greatest with 60 µg of venom, while the inflammatory infiltrate was greatest with 10 µg of venom. All venom doses caused the migration of polymorphonuclear and mononuclear leukocytes into muscle, but with no significant dose-dependence in the response. These findings show that, at the doses tested, P. olfersii venom does not cause hematological alterations and has limited effect on circulating cytokine concentrations. These data also confirm that the principal effects of the venom in mice are local edema, inflammatory cell infiltration and myonecrosis.

Ethylene, 1-methylcyclopropene and silver thiosulfate on the post-production of ornamental pepper / Etileno, 1-metilciclopropeno e tiossulfato de prata na pós-produção de pimenteiras ornamentais

ABSTRACT: Species from Capsicum genus are used for different purposes and in more recent years as ornamental potted plant. Despite the increased commercial importance, there are only a few studies on the environmental factors affecting the post-production shelf life of these ornamental plants. The presence of ethylene induces various responses on potted peppers, reducing the shelf life of sensitive cultivars. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of ethylene and the inhibitors of ethylene action, 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) and silver thiosulfate (STS) on the shelf life of potted 'Calypso' and 'MG 302' peppers. Cultivar 'MG 302' showed intermediate sensitivity to ethylene action, while the cultivar 'Calypso' showed complete abscission of leaves when exposed to ethylene. In both cultivars, treatment with STS + Ethylene presented symptoms of phytotoxicity in plants, while treatment with 1-MCP + Ethylene was effective in delaying senescence and abscission for the cultivar 'MG 302', while cultivar 'Calypso' showed abscission similar to control plants. Plants treated with STS showed the longest durability when compared to the other treatments, about six days for 'Calypso' and 18 days for 'MG 302'. Nevertheless, plants treated with 1-MCP also exhibited good shelf life, about six days for 'Calypso' and nine days for the 'MG 302'. Although the treatment with STS was more efficient on the plants shelf life, did not completely block the action of ethylene and exhibited some phytotoxicity, while the treatment with 1-MCP had good efficiency without inducing any toxicity.

RESUMO: Espécies do gênero Capsicum estão sendo usados para diversas finalidades e nos últimos anos como planta ornamental de vaso. Apesar da crescente importância comercial, há poucos estudos sobre os fatores ambientais que afetam a sua vida útil de pós-produção destas plantas ornamentais. A presença de etileno induz várias respostas em pimenteiras em vasos, reduzindo a vida útil de prateleira de cultivares sensíveis. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos do etileno e inibidores da ação do etileno, 1-metilciclopropeno (1-MCP) e tiossulfato de prata (STS) sobre a vida útil de vaso de pimenteiras das cultivares 'Calypso' e 'MG 302'. A cultivar 'MG 302' apresentou sensibilidade intermediária a ação do etileno, enquanto a cultivar 'Calypso' apresentou abscisão completa das folhas quando exposta ao etileno. Em ambas as cultivares, o tratamento STS + Etileno mostrou sintomas de fitotoxicidade nas plantas. O tratamento com 1-MCP + Etileno foi eficaz em retardar a senescência e abscisão apenas para a cultivar 'MG 302', enquanto a cultivar 'Calypso' mostrou abscisão foliar semelhante as plantas controle. Plantas tratadas com STS mostraram maior durabilidade quando comparadas aos outros tratamentos, cerca de seis dias para 'Calypso' e dezoito dias para 'MG 302'. No entanto, as plantas tratadas com 1-MCP também exibiram boa vida útil de prateleira, cerca de seis dias para 'Calypso' e nove dias para a 'MG 302'. Embora o tratamento com STS tenha sido mais eficiente na vida de prateleira das plantas, não bloqueou completamente a ação do etileno e apresentaram algum fitotoxicidade, enquanto o tratamento com 1-MCP teve boa eficiência sem induzir qualquer toxicidade.

Cold Temperature Delays Wound Healing in Postharvest Sugarbeet Roots.

Storage temperature affects the rate and extent of wound-healing in a number of root and tuber crops. The effect of storage temperature on wound-healing in sugarbeet (Beta vulgaris L.) roots, however, is largely unknown. Wound-healing of sugarbeet roots was investigated using surface-abraded roots stored at 6 and 12°C for 28 days. Surface abrasions are common injuries of stored roots, and the storage temperatures used are typical of freshly harvested or rapidly cooled roots. Transpiration rate from the wounded surface and root weight loss were used to quantify wound healing. At 12°C, transpiration rate from the wounded surface declined within 14 days and wounded roots lost weight at a rate similar to unwounded controls. At 6°C, transpiration rate from the wounded surface did not decline in the 28 days after injury, and wounded roots lost 44% more weight than controls after 28 days storage. Melanin formation, lignification, and suberization occurred more rapidly at 12°C than at 6°C, and a continuous layer of lignified and suberized cells developed at 12°C, but not at 6°C. Examination of enzyme activities involved in melanin, lignin, and suberin formation indicated that differences in melanin formation at 6 and 12°C were related to differences in polyphenol oxidase activity, although no relationships between suberin or lignin formation and phenylalanine ammonia lyase or peroxidase activity were evident. Wound-induced respiration was initially greater at 12°C than at 6°C. However, with continued storage, respiration rate of wounded roots declined more rapidly at 12°C, and over 28 days, the increase in respiration due to injury was 52% greater in roots stored at 6°C than in roots stored at 12°C. The data indicate that storage at 6°C severely slowed and impaired wound-healing of surface-abraded sugarbeet roots relative to roots stored at 12°C and suggest that postharvest losses may be accelerated if freshly harvested roots are cooled too quickly.

Low-level laser therapy ameliorates CCl4-induced liver cirrhosis in rats.

This study investigated the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in the liver function, structure and inflammation in a experimental model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4))-induced liver cirrhosis. Wistar rats were divided into Control, LLLT, CCl(4) and CCl(4) +LLLT groups. CCl(4) groups received CCl(4) (0.4 g kg(-1); i.p.), three times a week, for 12 weeks. A 830 nm LLLT was performed with a continuous wave, 35 mW, 2.5 J cm(-2) per point, applied to four points of the liver (right and left upper and lower extremities, in the four lobes of the liver) for 2 weeks. Liver structure and inflammation (cirrhotic areas, collagen deposition, inflammation, density of Kupffer and hepatic stellate cells) and function (aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma glutamyltransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, total proteins and globulins) were evaluated. LLLT significantly reduced CCl(4)-increased aspartate aminotransferase (P < 0.001), alkaline phosphatase (P < 0.001), gamma-glutamyl transferase (P < 0.001) and lactate dehydrogenase (P < 0.01) activity, as well as total proteins (P < 0.05) and globulins (P < 0.01). LLLT also reduced the number of cirrhotic areas, the collagen accumulation and the hepatic inflammatory infiltrate. Of note, LLLT reduced CCl(4)-increased number of Kupffer cells (P < 0.05) and hepatic stellate cells (P < 0.05). We conclude that LLLT presents beneficial effects on liver function and structure in an experimental model of CCl(4)-induced cirrhosis.

Effect of the rest interval duration between contractions on muscle fatigue.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to investigate the effect of rest interval, between successive contractions, on muscular fatigue. METHODS: Eighteen subjects performed elbow flexion and extension (30 repetitions) on an isokinetic dynamometer with 80º of range of motion. The flexion velocity was 120º/s, while for elbow extension we used 5 different velocities (30, 75, 120, 240, 360º/s), producing 5 different rest intervals (2.89, 1.28, 0.85, 0.57 and 0.54 s). RESULTS: We observed that when the rest interval was 2.89 s there was a reduction in fatigue. On the other hand, when the rest interval was 0.54 s the fatigue was increased. CONCLUSIONS: When the resting time was lower (0.54 s) the decline of work in the flexor muscle group was higher compared with different rest interval duration.

Detection of creatine in rat muscle by FTIR spectroscopy.

There is a current lack of clarity regarding the use of Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) to evaluate intramuscular concentrations of creatine (Cr). Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the FT-IR spectral features of tibialis anterior muscle in rats submitted in conditions that were expected to perturb the Cr pool. First, an experiment was performed to ensure that FT-IR was able to detect the Cr intramuscular in sedentary and supplemented rats (Experiment 1). The effect of physical exercise on spectral muscle features was then examined, especially in relation to the spectroscopy markers (Experiment 2). Using pure Cr (control), it was possible to verify that only the peaks centered at 1308 and 1396 cm(-1) of all the spectra showed the same peak positions, indicating these FT-IR shifts as indirect markers of Cr intramuscular content. Experiment 2 revealed a higher Cr content for the Cr-supplemented and exercised animals than the rats of other groups. In conclusion, it was demonstrated that FT-IR spectroscopy using 1396 cm(-1) and mainly 1308 band was able to monitor Cr muscle content in rats sedentary, Cr-supplemented, and submitted to physical training. Besides, FT-IR could be a feasible method for the nondestructive assessment of Cr skeletal muscle content.