Parental Influences on Physical Activity and Screen Time among Preschool Children from Low-Income Families in Brazil.

Background: Children from low-middle income countries (LMIC) are disproportionately affected by obesity, and low physical activity (PA) and high screen time (ST) are major contributors. Parents are key influencers on children's PA and ST, yet, no study has investigated relationships between parenting practices and children's PA and ST in LMIC families. This study examined parental influences on PA and ST among preschool-aged children from low-income families in Brazil. Methods: Parents completed a validated, culturally adapted interviewer-administered survey assessing child ST and parenting practices. Child sedentary time, total movement, and energetic play were measured by accelerometery. Results: Data were available on 77 parent-child dyads [mean age 4.6 years (standard deviation = 0.8), 53% male, and 41% mixed-race]. Parenting practices associated with greater PA were use of PA to reward/control behavior (rho = 0.34-0.49), limiting or monitoring ST (rho = 0.30), explicit modeling/enjoyment of PA (rho = 0.24), verbal encouragement for PA (rho = 0.30), and importance and value of PA (rho = 0.24-0.38; p < 0.05). Parenting practices associated with higher ST were rules around active play indoor (rho = 0.23), use of ST to reward/control behavior (rho = 0.30), exposure to screens (rho = 0.40), and explicit modeling/enjoyment of ST (rho = 0.50; p < 0.05). Conclusion: Recognized parenting practices such as explicit modeling of PA and ST, monitoring and limiting ST, and rules and restrictions about PA and ST are associated with young children's PA and ST in low-income Brazilian families. The findings identify potential targets for family-based interventions to promote healthy lifestyle behaviors and prevent childhood obesity.

Adherence to 24-hour movement guidelines among rural Brazalian preschool children: associations with parenting practices.

BACKGROUND: Young children residing in rural areas of low-and-middle income countries (LMICs) such as Brazil are at greater risk of obesity and related chronic health conditions. Yet, the extent to which rural preschool children from Brazil aged 3- to 6-years meet the World Health Organisation (WHO) 24-hour movement guidelines is unknown. Parents play a central role in the development of children's movement behaviors with logistic support, co-participation, modelling, and setting rules and limits recognized as influential parenting practices. However, the bulk of parenting research has been conducted in families from high income countries (HICs) and little is known about the relationship between parenting practices and children's movement behaviors in LMIC communities. Therefore, the aims of this study were two-fold: (1) report the proportion of preschool children from low-income families in rural Brazil meeting the WHO 24-hour movement guidelines; and (2) determine associations with theory-based parenting practices related to physical activity, screen time, and sleep. METHODS: A representative sample of 324 families from a rural district in north-eastern Brazil completed a validated, culturally adapted interviewer-administered survey assessing child physical activity, screen time and sleep, and associated parenting practices. The proportion of children meeting the physical activity, screen time, and sleep recommendations and all combinations of these recommendations was calculated. Forward selection logistic regression was used to determine which parenting practices were associated with meeting the individual recommendations and the 24-hour movement guidelines. RESULTS: Less than half of the children (47.5%) met the physical activity recommendation, 22% met the screen time recommendation, 62% met the sleep recommendation, with just over 10% meeting all three recommendations in the 24-h movement guidelines. Having fewer rules and restrictions around indoor and outdoor play, limiting, or monitoring screen time, and maintaining a consistent bedtime routine were key parenting practices associated with children´s adherence to the 24-hour movement guidelines. CONCLUSION: Only 1 in 10 rural Brazilian preschool children meet the 24-hour movement guidelines. These findings underscore the need for family-based interventions targeting parenting practices to support healthful movement behaviors in young children from LMICs.

Psychometric properties of instruments to measure parenting practices and children's movement behaviors in low-income families from Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Childhood obesity has increased remarkably in low and middle-income (LMIC) countries. Movement behaviors (physical activity, screen time, and sleep) are crucial in the development of overweight and obesity in young children. Yet, few studies have investigated the relationship between children's movement behaviors and parenting practices because validated measures for use among families from LMIC are lacking. This study evaluated the psychometric properties of previously validated measures of young children's physical activity, screen time, and sleep and parenting practices, translated and culturally adapted to Brazilian families. METHODS: A total of 78 parent-child dyads completed an interviewer-administered survey twice within 7 days. Child physical activity, sedentary time and sleep were concurrently measured using a wrist-worn accelerometer. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability was assessed using McDonald's Omega and Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC's). Concurrent validity was evaluated by calculating Spearman correlations between parent reported child behaviors and accelerometer measured behaviors. RESULTS: Seventeen of the 19 parenting practices scales exhibited acceptable internal consistency reliability (Ω ≥ 0.70). Test-retest reliability ICC's were acceptable and ranged from 0.82 - 0.99. Parent reported child physical activity was positively correlated with objectively measured total movement (rho= 0.29 - 0.46, p < .05) and energetic play (rho= 0.29 - 0.40, p < .05). Parent reported child screen time was positively correlated with objectively measured sedentary time; (rho = 0.26, p < .05), and inversely correlated with total movement (rho = - 0.39 - - 0.41, p < .05) and energetic play (rho = - 0.37 - - 0.41, p < .05). Parent reported night-time sleep duration was significantly correlated with accelerometer measured sleep duration on weekdays (rho = 0.29, p < .05), but not weekends. CONCLUSIONS: Measurement tools to assess children's movement behaviors and parenting practices, translated and culturally adapted for use in Brazilian families, exhibited acceptable evidence of concurrent validity, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability.

Parental influences on screen time and weight status among preschool children from Brazil: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Little is known about the influence of parental attributes and parental screen time behaviours on pre-schooler's screen time and weight status in low-to-middle income countries. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between parental screen time, parental self-efficacy to limit screen time, child screen time and child BMI in preschool-aged children in Brazil. METHODS: Three hundred eighteen parent-child dyads from Caruaru, Brazil completed a survey measuring sociodemographic data, weekday and weekend screen time, and parental self-efficacy for limiting screen time. Height and weight were measured and used to derive BMI and BMI percentile. Observed variable path analysis was used to evaluate the relationships between the parental and child variables. RESULTS: Analyses were conducted for screen time on weekdays and weekend days. Parental screen time was positively associated with child screen time, either directly (weekdays = ß = 0.27, p < 0.001, weekends = ß = 0.24, p < 0.001) or indirectly through reduced self-efficacy to limit child screen time (weekdays = ß = - 0.15, p = 0.004, weekends = ß = - 0.16, p = 0.004). After controlling for household income, parental occupation, and parental BMI, greater child screen time on weekends, not weekdays, was associated with higher child BMI percentile (ß = 0.15, p = 0.006). CONCLUSIONS: Parental screen time and self-efficacy to limit screen time are important influences on child screen time and weight status in pre-schoolers from Brazil. Reducing parental screen time and increasing parental confidence to limit screen time may be effective strategy to prevent overweight in Brazilian pre-schoolers.

Existe associação entre o uso de glicocorticoides e a presença de fraturas? estudo comparativo em um hospital de trauma / Is there an association between glucocorticoid use and fractures? a comparative study in a trauma hospital

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar se houve associação entre a ocorrência de fratura após trauma físico e o uso de glicocorticoides nos 12 meses precedentes ao trauma, em crianças e adolescentes atendidos em uma emergência. Métodos: No período de abril a outubro de 2015 foi conduzido em uma emergência pediátrica um estudo tipo caso controle, em pacientes de 3 a 14 anos incompletos, vitimados por trauma físico, com e sem fratura. Os dados analisados foram obtidos pela consulta dos prontuários, pelo exame físico dos pacientes e por entrevista dos responsáveis, comparando-se uso de glicocorticoides nos últimos 12 meses, características demográficas, índice de massa corpórea, ingesta de leite, intensidade do trauma, prática de exercício físico e tabagismo passivo domiciliar nos dois grupos de pacientes. Resultados: Estudaram-se 104 pacientes com trauma físico, 50 com fratura e 54 sem fratura. O uso de glicocorticoides ocorreu em 15,4% dos pacientes estudados, sem diferença estatisticamente significante entre os dois grupos. A faixa etária de 10 a 14 anos incompletos, o trauma grave e a prática de exercício físico predominaram entre os pacientes com fratura. Conclusões: Este estudo não mostrou associação entre o uso prévio de glicocorticoides e a ocorrência de fraturas em crianças e adolescentes. A faixa etária de 10 a 14 anos incompletos, o trauma grave e a prática de exercício físico associaram-se com maior risco para fraturas.

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the association between traumatic fractures and glucocorticoids taken 12 months prior to a trauma, in children and adolescents seen at an emergency room. Methods: A case-control study was conducted from April to October 2015, at a pediatric emergency hospital with patients aged 3- to 14 years-old, who had suffered physical trauma. Some of the patients had a fracture and some did not. The data analyzed were obtained from medical records, physical examination of the patients, and interview with the patients' caregivers. Glucocorticoid use in the past 12 months, demographic variables, body mass index, milk intake, trauma intensity, physical activity and smoking in the household were compared between the two patient groups. Results: A total of 104 patients with physical trauma were studied - 50 had a fracture and 54 did not. Of all the patients, 15.4% had previously used glucocorticoids, and there were no statistically significant differences between the groups. The age range of 10- to 14 years-old, severe trauma and physical activity were more prevalent among patients with a bone fracture. Conclusions: This study did not find an association between previous glucocorticoid use and the occurrence of fractures in children and adolescents. The age range of 10- to 14 years-old, severe trauma, and physical activity were associated with an increased risk for fractures.

IS THERE AN ASSOCIATION BETWEEN GLUCOCORTICOID USE AND FRACTURES? A COMPARATIVE STUDY IN A TRAUMA HOSPITAL. / EXISTE ASSOCIAÇÃO ENTRE O USO DE GLICOCORTICOIDES E A PRESENÇA DE FRATURAS? ESTUDO COMPARATIVO EM UM HOSPITAL DE TRAUMA.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the association between traumatic fractures and glucocorticoids taken 12 months prior to a trauma, in children and adolescents seen at an emergency room. METHODS: A case-control study was conducted from April to October 2015, at a pediatric emergency hospital with patients aged 3- to 14 years-old, who had suffered physical trauma. Some of the patients had a fracture and some did not. The data analyzed were obtained from medical records, physical examination of the patients, and interview with the patients' caregivers. Glucocorticoid use in the past 12 months, demographic variables, body mass index, milk intake, trauma intensity, physical activity and smoking in the household were compared between the two patient groups. RESULTS: A total of 104 patients with physical trauma were studied - 50 had a fracture and 54 did not. Of all the patients, 15.4% had previously used glucocorticoids, and there were no statistically significant differences between the groups. The age range of 10- to 14 years-old, severe trauma and physical activity were more prevalent among patients with a bone fracture. CONCLUSIONS: This study did not find an association between previous glucocorticoid use and the occurrence of fractures in children and adolescents. The age range of 10- to 14 years-old, severe trauma, and physical activity were associated with an increased risk for fractures.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar se houve associação entre a ocorrência de fratura após trauma físico e o uso de glicocorticoides nos 12 meses precedentes ao trauma, em crianças e adolescentes atendidos em uma emergência. MÉTODOS: No período de abril a outubro de 2015 foi conduzido em uma emergência pediátrica um estudo tipo caso controle, em pacientes de 3 a 14 anos incompletos, vitimados por trauma físico, com e sem fratura. Os dados analisados foram obtidos pela consulta dos prontuários, pelo exame físico dos pacientes e por entrevista dos responsáveis, comparando-se uso de glicocorticoides nos últimos 12 meses, características demográficas, índice de massa corpórea, ingesta de leite, intensidade do trauma, prática de exercício físico e tabagismo passivo domiciliar nos dois grupos de pacientes. RESULTADOS: Estudaram-se 104 pacientes com trauma físico, 50 com fratura e 54 sem fratura. O uso de glicocorticoides ocorreu em 15,4% dos pacientes estudados, sem diferença estatisticamente significante entre os dois grupos. A faixa etária de 10 a 14 anos incompletos, o trauma grave e a prática de exercício físico predominaram entre os pacientes com fratura. CONCLUSÕES: Este estudo não mostrou associação entre o uso prévio de glicocorticoides e a ocorrência de fraturas em crianças e adolescentes. A faixa etária de 10 a 14 anos incompletos, o trauma grave e a prática de exercício físico associaram-se com maior risco para fraturas.

Ocorrência da Sí­ndrome de Burnout em professores do ensino superior em instituição privada / Occurrence of Burnout Syndrome in higher education teachers in a private institution

Introdução: A Sí­ndrome de Burnout, descrita como uma sí­ndrome tridimensional, caracterizada por exaustão emocional, despersonalização e diminuição da realização profissional, acomete os profissionais cujo cotidiano de trabalho tem relação direta com pessoas expostas a um estresse crônico. Objetivo: Analisar a ocorrência da Sí­ndrome de Burnout em professores do ensino superior em instituição privada. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo transversal, com caráter analí­tico-descritivo em uma instituição privada de ní­vel superior, com 161 docentes. Utilizou-se como instrumentos de coleta dados um questionário semiestruturado e o questionário validado de Maslach Burnout Inventory. Resultados: Para as dimensões do Burnout, os docentes obtiveram uma alta exaustão emocional, moderada despersonalização e moderada diminuição da realização profissional. O sexo feminino, docentes que trabalham no turno integral e que possuem um tempo de atuação ≥ 21 anos são mais susceptí­veis em todas as dimensões da sí­ndrome. Professores atuantes na área de saúde, que trabalham ≥ 9 horas de 4 a 6 dias por semana, resultaram em alta exaustão emocional. Conclusão: Os resultados apontam que 78,4% dos docentes apresentaram um escore de moderado a alto para desenvolver a Sí­ndrome de Burnout, podendo estar associado aos fatores sociodemográficos e laborais. (AU)

Introduction: Burnout Syndrome is described as a three-dimensional syndrome, characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and decreased professional achievement. It affects professionals whose daily work is directly related to people exposed to chronic stress. Objective: The present study analyzes the incidence of Burnout Syndrome in higher education teachers in a private institution. Methods: This is an analytical and descriptive cross-sectional study in a private institution of higher education, with 161 teachers. As data collection tools, a semistructured questionnaire and the Maslach Burnout Inventory validity questionnaire were used. Results: For the burnout dimensions, teachers obtained a high emotional exhaustion, moderate depersonalization and moderate diminished personal accomplishment. The female and teachers working full-time for over 21 years are more likely in all dimensions of the syndrome. Teachers working in health care ≥ 9 hours/day, 4 to 6 days a week, resulted in high emotional exhaustion. Conclusion: The results show that 78.4% of teachers had a score of moderate to high to develop the burnout syndrome, which can be associated with sociodemographic and labor factors. (AU)

Mirror therapy for upper limb rehabilitation in chronic patients after stroke / Terapia do espelho no membro superior de pacientes após acidente vascular cerebral

Abstract Introduction: Individuals with stroke sequelae present changes in the postural alignment and muscle strength associated with hemiplegia or hemiparesis. Mirror therapy is a technique that aims to improve the motor function of the paretic limb. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of mirror therapy, associated with conventional physiotherapy, for range of motion (ROM), degree of spasticity of the affected upper limb, and the level of independence in the activities of daily living (ADL) of chronic patients after stroke. Methods: This was a quasi-experimental (before and after) study. The study included ten stroke survivors undertaking physiotherapy and presenting with upper limb paresis. The following gauges were used for the present study: goniometry, the Modified Ashworth Scale, Fugl-Meyer and Barthel Index. Fifteen sessions were performed, each lasting 30 minutes, consisting of stretching of the flexor and extensor muscles of the wrist and elbow, pronators and supinators, followed by mirror therapy with gradual functional exercises. Results: Improvement was observed in all aspects studied, however with significant differences for ROM wrist extension (p = 0.04) and forearm supination (p = 0.03) Conclusion: It can be concluded that mirror therapy contributed to the participants' good performance in the aspects studied, mainly in relation to ROM of the affected upper limb.

Resumo Introdução: Indivíduos com sequelas de acidente vascular encefálico (AVE) apresentam alterações no alinhamento postural e força muscular associada a uma hemiplegia ou hemiparesia. A terapia de espelho é uma técnica que visa melhorar a função motora do membro parético. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da terapia do espelho, associada à fisioterapia convencional, na amplitude de movimento (ADM), grau de espasticidade do membro superior acometido e no nível de independência das Atividades de Vida Diária (AVD) de paciente pós Acidente Vascular Cerebral (AVC). Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo quase experimental do tipo antes e depois. Participaram do estudo 10 pacientes pós AVC, os quais se encontrassem em atendimento fisioterapêutico e apresentassem paresia em membro superior. Para a avaliação utilizou-se goniometria, escala de Ashworth modificada, Fugl-Meyer e Índice de Barthel. Foram realizadas 15 sessões com duração de 30 minutos, compostas de alongamento dos músculos flexores e extensores de punho e cotovelo, pronadores e supinadores, seguidos da terapia do espelho com exercícios funcionais gradativos. Resultados: Observou-se melhora em todos os aspectos estudados, porém com diferenças estatisticamente significantes para ADM de extensão de punho (p = 0,04) e supinação de antebraço (p = 0,03). Conclusão: Pode-se concluir que a terapia do espelho contribuiu para que os participantes desta pesquisa obtivessem boa evolução nos aspectos estudados, principalmente em relação à ADM do membro superior acometido.

Association of atopic diseases and parvovirus B19 with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in childhood and adolescence in the northeast of Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Several factors related to the immune system, such as a history of allergies and virus infections, may be associated with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The purpose of this study was to analyze whether the presence of atopic diseases and previous infection with parvovirus B19 and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) are associated with the development of ALL. METHODS: This case-control study was performed in two tertiary hospitals located in northeastern Brazil. The study population included 60 patients who were diagnosed with non-T-cell ALL using myelogram and immunophenotyping and 120 patients in the control group. Atopy was evaluated via a parent questionnaire and medical records. Total immunoglobulin (Ig)E and IgG levels of parvovirus B19 and EBV were measured in the serum. Logistic regression was performed to assess the association between variables and odds of ALL. RESULTS: We identified a significant inverse association between rhinitis, urticaria and elevated IgE serum levels with ALL. A history of parvovirus B19 infection showed a significant association with this type of cancer [OR (95 % CI) 2.00 (1.94-4.26); P = 0.050]. In logistic regression, the presence of atopy was a protective factor [OR (95 % CI) 0.57 (0.38-0.83); P = 0.004], and the presence of IgG for parvovirus B19 was an important risk factor for ALL [OR (95 % CI) 2.20 (1.02-4.76); P = 0.043]. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that atopic diseases and elevated total IgE levels are associated with a potential protective effect on the development of ALL. Previous infection with parvovirus B19 contributed to ALL susceptibility.

Efeito do treinamento físico moderado e intenso sobre os mecanismos de defesa de ratos adultos / Effect of moderate and intense physical training on the mechanisms of defense in adult rats

OBJETIVO: Analisou-se o impacto do treinamento físico moderado (TFM) e intenso (TFI) sobre o perfil leucocitário e a atividade microbicida de macrófagos alveolares, em 29 ratos machos Wistar. MÉTODOS: Foram formados três grupos: controle-sedentário (CS), treino-moderado (TM) e treino-intenso (TI). Os TFM e TFI foram efetuados através da natação, com aumento progressivo de carga conforme o peso corporal, até um máximo de 3% para o TFM, e 5% para o TFI. As coletas de sangue para contagem total e diferencial dos leucócitos foram automatizadas através do analisador hematológico Sysmex XT- 1800i (Roche®) antes e após o treino. E ao final realizou-se o lavado broncoalveolar para determinar a taxa de fagocitose e a produção de óxido nítrico (ON) de macrófagos. RESULTADOS: O grupo TM apresentou valores maiores para o número de leucócitos (12,77±2,0 x 17,25±2,4 10³/mm³), linfócitos (8,87±1,0 x 12,5±2,1 10³/mm³) e neutrófilos (0,99±0,5 x 3,18±1,0 10³/mm³), p<0,05. Apresentou também uma maior produção de ON (15,77±4,9µmols/mL) e da taxa de fagocitose (38,6%±8,65) em relação ao CS (6,58±1,9µmols/mL e 24,4%±7,40, respectivamente). Enquanto que, o grupo TI apresentou menor taxa de fagocitose (13,1%±1,52 x 24,4%±7,40), maior produção de ON (38,40± 2,1x 6,58±1,9 µmols/mL) e aumento apenas, no valor dos neutrófilos (2,6±1,4x 0,99±0,5 10³/mm³) quando comparado ao CS, p<0,001. CONCLUSÕES: O TFM proporcionou melhora nos mecanismos de defesa dos animais adultos. Enquanto que o TFI reduziu a taxa de fagocitose o que poderá implicar em prejuízo da atividade microbicida dos animais.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of moderate (MPT) and intense physical training (IPT) on the white blood cell profile and the microbicide activity of alveolar macrophages in 29 Wistar male rats. METHODS: The sample was separated into three groups: control group (sedentary), moderate training (MT), and intense training groups (IT). Swimming was the tool used to classify both moderate and intense training groups with a progressive increase of exercise load regarding body weight (up to 3% for the moderate physical training and 5% for the intense training group). The blood samples used to count total and differential leucocytes were automated by a hematological analyzer Sysmex XT-1800i (Roche®) before and after training sessions. At the end of the process, a bronchoalveolar lavage was carried out so to determine the amount of phagocytosis and the production of nitric oxide (NO) of the macrophages. RESULTS: The MT showed an increase in the number of leucocytes (12,77±2,0x17,25±2,4 10³/mm³), lymphocytes (8,87±1,0x 12,5±2,1 10³/mm³) and neutrophils (0,99±0,5x3,18 ±1,0 10³/mm³), p<0,05. There was also a higher production of NO (15,77±4,9µmols/mL) as well as a higher phagocytosis rate of (38,6%±8,65) as to the control group (6,58±1,9 µmols/mL and 24,4%±7,40, respectively). Whereas the IT showed a smaller phagocytosis rate (13,1%±1,52x 24,4%±7,40), a greater production of NO (38,40±2,1 x 6,58±1,9 µmols/mL) and an increase only in the number of neutrophils (2,6±1,4 x 0,99±0,5 10³/mm³) compared to the control group, p<0,001. CONCLUSIONS: The MPT induced a significant improvement in the defense mechanisms of the adult rats. On the other hand, the IPT induced a reduction in phagocytosis rate which could lead to the microbicide activity of the rats being damaged.

Leukocyte, red blood cell and morphological adaptation to moderate physical training in rats undernourished in the neonatal period.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the impact of moderate physical exercise on the total and differential leukocyte counts and red blood cell count of 36 sixty-day-old adult male Wistar rats subjected to early malnourishment. METHODS: The rats were divided in nourished (N - casein 17%) and malnourished groups (M - casein 8%) and thesegroups were then subdivided in trained (T) untrained (U) creating four groups NT, NU, MT and MU. The NT and MTgroups were submitted to moderate physical exercise using a treadmill (60 min/day, 5 days/week for 8 weeks). Onthe 1st day, before the training started T0 and 24 hours after the last training day of the week (T1 until T8), a 1 mLaliquot of blood was collected from the animals' tails for analysis. The total leukocyte count was evaluated in a cellcounter with an electronic microscope. The cyanmethemoglobin technique was used to measure the hemoglobin level. The hematocrit values were determined as a percentage using the micro-hematocrit technique with a microcapillaryreader and a cell counter was used to determine the red blood cell count. The t-test was used for statistical analysis and a p-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Data are expressed as means ± standard deviation. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in the total leukocyte count between the NT (9.1 ± 0.1) and MT groups (8.0 ± 0.1) from T1 and in neutrophils between the NT (22.1 ± 0.6) and MT groups (24.6 ± 1.8) from T7 (p < 0.05). There was no statistical significance in the hemoglobin, hematocrit and red blood cell count from T1. CONCLUSIONS: According to the results of this study, moderate physical exercise seems to have induced physiologic adaptation in adult rats from T1.

Leukocyte, red blood cell and morphological adaptation to moderate physical training in rats undernourished in the neonatal period

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the impact of moderate physical exercise on the total and differential leukocyte counts and red blood cell count of 36 sixty-day-old adult male Wistar rats subjected to early malnourishment. METHODS: The rats were divided in nourished (N - casein 17%) and malnourished groups (M - casein 8%) and thesegroups were then subdivided in trained (T) untrained (U) creating four groups NT, NU, MT and MU. The NT and MTgroups were submitted to moderate physical exercise using a treadmill (60 min/day, 5 days/week for 8 weeks). Onthe 1st day, before the training started T0 and 24 hours after the last training day of the week (T1 until T8), a 1 mLaliquot of blood was collected from the animals' tails for analysis. The total leukocyte count was evaluated in a cellcounter with an electronic microscope. The cyanmethemoglobin technique was used to measure the hemoglobin level. The hematocrit values were determined as a percentage using the micro-hematocrit technique with a microcapillaryreader and a cell counter was used to determine the red blood cell count. The t-test was used for statistical analysis and a p-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Data are expressed as means ± standard deviation. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in the total leukocyte count between the NT (9.1 ± 0.1) and MT groups (8.0 ± 0.1) from T1 and in neutrophils between the NT (22.1 ± 0.6) and MT groups (24.6 ± 1.8) from T7 (p < 0.05). There was no statistical significance in the hemoglobin, hematocrit and red blood cell count from T1. CONCLUSIONS: According to the results of this study, moderate physical exercise seems to have induced physiologic adaptation in adult rats from T1.

Hematological and immunological effects of stress of air traffic controllers in northeastern Brazil

BACKGROUND: Several studies have shown that stress and emotional reactions can affect immune responses in animals and humans. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate hematological and immunological effects of stress on air traffic controllers. METHODS: Thirty air traffic controllers and 15 aeronautical information service operators were evaluated. The groups were divided as information service operators with 10 years or more of experience (AIS>10) and with less than 10 years in the profession (AIS<10) and air traffic controllers with 10 years or more of experience (ATCo>10) and with less than 10 years in the profession (ATCo<10). Blood samples were drawn at 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. The paired t-test was used to compare monocyte and nitric oxide concentrations and ANOVA was used for the other parameters. RESULTS: The ATCo>10 group presented a significantly lower phagocytosis rate of monocytes at 2:00 p.m. compared to 8:00 a.m. Moreover, the ATCo>10 group presented lower hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, platelet and leukocyte levels, and increased cortisol concentrations at 8:00 a.m. compared to the other groups. Additionally, this group had lower phagocytosis rate of monocytes, and hemoglobin, platelet, leukocyte, basophils and nitric oxide levels at 2:00 p.m. compared to the other groups. CONCLUSION: Stress seems to greatly affect immune responses of air traffic controllers with more than ten years of experience.

Hematological and immunological effects of stress of air traffic controllers in northeastern Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Several studies have shown that stress and emotional reactions can affect immune responses in animals and humans. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate hematological and immunological effects of stress on air traffic controllers. METHODS: Thirty air traffic controllers and 15 aeronautical information service operators were evaluated. The groups were divided as information service operators with 10 years or more of experience (AIS≥10) and with less than 10 years in the profession (AIS<10) and air traffic controllers with 10 years or more of experience (ATCo≥10) and with less than 10 years in the profession (ATCo<10). Blood samples were drawn at 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. The paired t-test was used to compare monocyte and nitric oxide concentrations and ANOVA was used for the other parameters. RESULTS: The ATCo≥10 group presented a significantly lower phagocytosis rate of monocytes at 2:00 p.m. compared to 8:00 a.m. Moreover, the ATCo≥10 group presented lower hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, platelet and leukocyte levels, and increased cortisol concentrations at 8:00 a.m. compared to the other groups. Additionally, this group had lower phagocytosis rate of monocytes, and hemoglobin, platelet, leukocyte, basophils and nitric oxide levels at 2:00 p.m. compared to the other groups. CONCLUSION: Stress seems to greatly affect immune responses of air traffic controllers with more than ten years of experience.

Headache precipitated by Valsalva maneuvers in patients with congenital Chiari I malformation.

The objective of this study was to characterize the headache precipitated by Valsalva maneuvers associated with Chiari type I malformation (CM-1). Nineteen patients were evaluated, with ages ranging from 30 to 75 years. Ten of them presented headache. Pain was more prevalent in the occipital (80%) and frontal region (60%). The headaches were of significantly shorter duration in the women compared with the men. The frequency of headache crises was relatively high. All patients with Valsalva-related headache suffered from at least one episode per month. The most prevalent precipitating factors were coughing, which is well described in the literature, and sexual activity, which only now is recognized as an event associated with CM-1.

Headache precipitated by Valsalva maneuvers in patients with congenital Chiari I malformation / Cefaléia precipitada por manobras de Valsalva em pacientes com malformação congênita de Chiari tipo I

The objective of this study was to characterize the headache precipitated by Valsalva maneuvers associated with Chiari type I malformation (CM-1). Nineteen patients were evaluated, with ages ranging from 30 to 75 years. Ten of them presented headache. Pain was more prevalent in the occipital (80 percent) and frontal region (60 percent). The headaches were of significantly shorter duration in the women compared with the men. The frequency of headache crises was relatively high. All patients with Valsalva-related headache suffered from at least one episode per month. The most prevalent precipitating factors were coughing, which is well described in the literature, and sexual activity, which only now is recognized as an event associated with CM-1.

Neste estudo, objetivou-se caracterizar a cefaléia desencadeada por manobra de Valsalva, em portadores de malformação de Chiari tipo 1 (MC-1). Foram avaliados 19 pacientes com idades variando entre 30 e 75 anos. Dentre estes, 10 apresentaram cefaléia. A região mais acometida foi a occipital (80 por cento) e frontal (60 por cento). A cefaléia foi de duração bem menor nas mulheres em relação aos homens. A freqüência da cefaléia foi relativamente alta, com todos os pacientes apresentando pelo menos um episódio por mês. Os principais fatores desencadeantes foram a tosse, que já é bem descrita pela literatura, e a atividade sexual, que apenas recentemente foi associada a MC-1.

Atividade antioxidante de macrófagos alveolares em ratos endotoxêmicos / Anti-oxidative activity of alveolar macrophages in endotoxemic rats

Avaliou-se o efeito da endotoxemia sobre a atividade antioxidante de macrófagos alveolares em ratos da linhagem Wistar. Foram utilizados 24 ratos machos, com idade entre 90 e 120 dias, os quais foram divididos em dois grupos: controle e endotoxêmico. O grupo endotoxêmico foi submetido à injeção intraperitonial de lipopolissacarídio na dose de 1mg/kg de peso corporal. Após 24 h, coletou-se sangue para contagem total e diferencial de leucócitos; lavado broncoalveolar para contagem total e diferencial dos leucócitos e, a partir de macrófagos isolados deste lavado, foram realizadas as dosagens de superóxido e superóxido dismutase. A endotoxemia aumentou a contagem total de leucócitos e o número de neutrófilos no sangue periférico, no lavado broncoalveolar, e aumentou a produção de superóxido sem modificar a produção da superóxido dismutase. Esses resultados sugerem que a endotoxemia induz a uma resposta inflamatória no pulmão. Contudo, não altera a atividade antioxidante em ratos adultos. Tal fato potencializa a resposta contra agentes infecciosos pelo hospedeiro, mas também pode contribuir na patogênese de injúria pulmonar.

The effects of endotoxemia on the antioxidant activity in alveolar macrophages of Wistar rats were evaluated. Twenty-four male rats, 90-120 days of age, were separated into 2 groups: control and endotoxemic. To the endotoxemic animals was administered, intraperitoneally, a lipopolyssaccaride at dosage of 1mg/kg body weight. Twenty-four hours after this procedure, blood was collected for total and differential leukocytes counts. In addition, bronchoalveolar lavage was collected for total and differential leukocyte counting. From this lavage macrophages were isolated for the dosage of superoxide and superoxide dismutase. The endotoxemia increased the total leukocyte counts and the number of neutrophils in the peripheral blood and bronchoalveolar lavage of the rats. There was an increased superoxide production without changing the superoxide dismutase. Our findings indicate that endotoxemia induces lung inflammatory response. However, it does not alter the antioxidant activity in adult rats. This fact not only enhances host response against infectious agents, but might also contribute to the pathogenesis of pulmonary injury.

Influência do treino fisico moderado sobre a estrutura da parede arterial de ratos submetidos à desnutrição proteica gestacional e neonatal / Influence of moderate physical training on the artery wall structure of rats submitted to gestational and neonatal protein malnutrition

Avaliamos o efeito do treinamento físico moderado (TFM) associado à reposição nutricional na parede das artérias carótida comum esquerda e aorta horizontal em 24 ratos Wistar machos adultos jovens, submetidos à desnutição proteica nas fases gestacional e neonatal. Os animais foram divididos em grupos Nutrido (N, n = 12, caseína 17 por cento) e Desnutrido (D, n = 12, caseína 8 por cento). Após o desmame, todos os animais receberam dieta padrão (Labina®) e aos 60 dias de vida, os dois grupos foram subdivididos em quatro com seis animais cada: Nutrido Não Treinado (NNT), Nutrido Treinado (NT), Reposição Não Treinado (RNT) e Reposição Treinado (RT). O TFM foi realizado em esteira durante oito semanas, cinco dias por semana, 60 minutos por dia. A histomorfometria de ambas as artérias foi realizada com o programa Scion Image for Windows (Beta 4.0.2). A espessura das paredes das artérias foi obtida a partir da média de aferição de quatro pontos diferentes (0º, 90º, 180º, 270º) e o diâmetro do lúmen dos vasos, a partir da média de aferição de dois valores, partindo de quatro pontos diametralmente opostos. Para a comparação entre os grupos utilizou-se o teste t de Student com os dados apresentados em média ± desvio padrão. A espessura média das artérias carótida comum esquerda (µm) e aorta horizontal (mm) foi menor no grupo RNT (32,51 ± 5,54; 0,11 ± 0,02, respectivamente), comparado com o NNT (40,91 ± 3,56; 0,15 ± 0,01). O diâmetro (µm) da artéria carótida comum esquerda foi maior nos animais RT (724 ± 44,64) do que nos RNT (630,73 ± 79,67). Conclui-se que o TFM associado à reposição nutricional não foi capaz de recuperar as alterações estruturais provocadas pela desnutrição na parede das artérias carótida comum esquerda e aorta horizontal.

We evaluated the effects of moderate physical training (MPT) associated with nutritional recovery on the left common carotid artery and horizontal carotid walls in 24 male, Wistar adult male rats submitted to protein malnutrition on the gestational and neonatal phases. The animals were divided in Nourished (N, n=12, casein 17 percent) and Malnourished (D, n=12, casein 8 percent). After weaning, all animals received standard diet (Labina®) and at the 60th day of life, both groups were subdivided in 4 groups with 6 animals each: Not-Trained Nourished (NTN), Trained Nourished (TN), Not-Trained Recovery (NTR) and Trained Recovery (TR). The MST was performed on treadmill during eight weeks, five days per week, 60 minutes a day. Histophotometry of both arteries was done with the Scion Image software for Windows (Beta 4.0.2). Arteries walls thickness was obtained by the mean value of 4 different points (0º, 90º, 180º, 270º), and the diameter of the lumen of the vessels from 2 values, starting from 4 opposite points. For the comparison between groups, Student's t test was used and data were shown in mean±standard deviation. Mean thickness of the left common carotid artery (µm) and horizontal aorta (mm) was lower on the NTR group (32.51 ± 5.54; 0.11 ± 0.02, respectively) in comparison with the NTN group (40.91± 3.56; 0.15 ± 0.01). The diameter of the common left carotid artery was higher in the TR animals (724 ± 44.64) when compared with the NTR (630.73 ± 79.67). Therefore, the MPT associated with nutritional recovery was not capable of recovering the structural alterations due to malnutrition on the common left carotid and horizontal aorta arteries wall.

Effect of Mercurius solubilis on the bacteriological response in the alveolitis process in rats.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess the bacteriological response in alveolitis in rats treated with the homeopathic medicine Merc solubilis (Merc sol.) 12 cH. METHODS: The study was randomized and observer blind. The animals were anesthetized and the upper right incisor extracted resulting in alveolitis. Animals were randomly assigned to groups (n=18/group): Water control, Alcohol control and Merc sol. 12 cH. These groups were subsequently divided into 3 subgroups (n=6/subgroup): Early Euthanasia (EE), Mid Euthanasia (ME) and Late Euthanasia (LE), killed at the 6th, 15th and 21st days respectively. The perialveolar microbiota was collected by swab in Brain Heart Infusion (BHI) for seeding and bacterioscopy. After seeding, the Petri dishes were incubated at 37 degrees C for 48 h. RESULTS: Quantitative and qualitative changes were observed in the perialveolar microbiota when the groups were compared. Water control and Alcohol control had the highest counts of pathogenic bacteria, the microbiotica of the Merc sol. group remained closer to normal. CONCLUSIONS: Merc sol. 12 cH did not reduce bacterial growth, but the microbiotica remained within the parameters of normality, obtaining the best results at 21 days after treatment.

Neonatal administration of fluoxetine did not alter the anxiety indicators, but decreased the locomotor activity in adult rats in the elevated plus-maze.

The objective of this study was evaluate the anxiety and locomotor activity (LA) in 52 Wistar adult male rats, being 26 treated with fluoxetine (10 mg/Kg - sc) in the neonatal period. These same rats received foot shock (FS) (1.6-mA - 2-s) in the 90th day. The anxiety and LA were appraised by plus-maze. The time spent in the open arms was used as anxiety index and the LA was measured by number of entries in closed arms (NECA) and the total of entries (TE). T-test was used with p<0.05 and expresses data in mean+/-SEM. There were reductions with the fluoxetine group in the NECA (2.35+/-0.33) and in the TE (3.96+/-0.61) compared to the controls (4.65+/-0.52) and (6.96+/-0.94). The neonatal administration of fluoxetine did not alter the anxiety, but reduced the LA in the animals that received FS.