Effects of photobiomodulation on pain, lactate and muscle performance (ROM, torque, and EMG parameters) of paretic upper limb in patients with post-stroke spastic hemiparesis-a randomized controlled clinical trial.

The objective of the study was to investigate the impact of photobiomodulation (PBM) on the paretic upper limb in post-stroke patients with spastic hemiparesis and to understand the potential of PBM as a long-term non-invasive therapy for reducing the side effects caused by spasticity in the hemiparetic upper limb after a stroke. This is a double-blind randomized clinical trial constituted of 27 participants, being Control group (CG = 12 healthy individuals) and PBM group (PBMG = 15 post-stroke individuals). In the CG, the baseline blood lactate (BL) was evaluated, followed by the evaluation of the IC torque of the biceps and triceps muscles, with the isokinetic dynamometer associated with surface electromyography (EMG) and, subsequently, a new measurement of BL. The PBMG received 10 sessions of treatment with PBM (780 nm, Power: 100 mV, Power Density: 3.18 W/cm2, Energy: 4 J, Fluency: 127.4 J/cm2, Time: 40 s per point and 1.280 s total, Spot: 0.0314 cm2, 32 Points: 16 points (brachial biceps) and 16 points (brachial triceps) applied with contact at 90°, Total Energy: 64 J), which in the pre-treatment evaluation measured BL, the visual analogue scale (VAS) of pain; torque and EMG of the same muscles in the IC, subsequently, a new measurement of VAS and BL, and measurement of range of motion (ROM) during the reaching movement. At the conclusion of the ten sessions, all participants underwent a reassessment, wherein all tests originally administered during the initial evaluation were repeated. Subsequently, the data were analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk normality test. For related data, the paired t-test was used for normal distributions and the Wilcoxon test for non-normal data. For unrelated data, the t test was used for normal distributions and the Mann-Whitney test for non-normal data. Muscle torque was higher for the CG, with a significant difference (CGxPBMG = p < 0.0001). There was no significant difference between the EMG values of the CG in relation to the Pre-PBM phase and with the Post-PBM phase of the PBMG (p > 0.05). On the other hand, there was a 38% reduction in pain reported by hemiparetic patients (p = 0.0127) and a decrease in BL in the PBMG. Post-PBM ROM increased by 46.1% in the elbow extension of the paretic limb. In conclusion, Photobiomodulation (PBM) demonstrated significant improvements in muscle performance, reducing fatigue and pain levels, and enhancing range of motion in post-stroke patients with spastic hemiparesis. These findings support the potential integration of PBM into rehabilitation protocols, but further research and clinical trials are needed to validate and expand upon these promising outcomes.

Transcranial photobiomodulation therapy associated with cardiorespiratory rehabilitation in spastic subjects.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of cardiorespiratory rehabilitation (CR) and transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) on exercise tolerance (ET), heart rate variability (HRV), and peripheral muscle activity in individuals with spasticity. Fifteen participants with spasticity were randomly assigned to two groups: the tPBM group (tPBMG) consisted of eight volunteers who underwent tPBM (on mode) and CR, while the control group (CG) consisted of seven volunteers who underwent simulated tPBM (off mode) and CR. The CR program included 12 weeks of treatment, twice a week for one hour, involving aerobic exercises and lower limb strengthening. For tPBM, a cluster with three lasers (λ = 680 nm, 808 nm), with a power of 100 mW/laser and energy of 36 J, applied to the F7, F8, and Fpz points. The following parameters were evaluated after 8 and 12 weeks: ET, HRV, and surface electromyography (EMG) of the rectus femoris muscle during orthostasis (ORT), isometric squatting (ISOM), and isotonic squatting (ISOT). Both groups showed a 40% increase in ET for the CG and a 30% increase for the tPBMG. The CG had more pronounced parasympathetic modulation alterations during post-exercise effort and recovery compared to the tPBMG. The EMG results showed that the tPBMG exhibited progressive improvement in muscle activity during ISOM and ISOT, as well as a decrease in the interlimb difference. In conclusion, both CR and tPBMG demonstrated improvements in ET. However, tPBMG specifically showed promising effects on HRV modulation and peripheral muscle electrical activity, providing additional benefits compared to CR alone.

Mycorrhizal Colonization of Wheat by Intact Extraradical Mycelium of Mn-Tolerant Native Plants Induces Different Biochemical Mechanisms of Protection.

Soil with excess Mn induces toxicity and impairs crop growth. However, with the development in the soil of an intact extraradical mycelia (ERM) from arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) symbiotic to native Mn-tolerant plants, wheat growth is promoted due to a stronger AMF colonization and subsequent increased protection against Mn toxicity. To determine the biochemical mechanisms of protection induced by this native ERM under Mn toxicity, wheat grown in soil from previously developed Lolium rigidum (LOL) or Ornithopus compressus (ORN), both strongly mycotrophic plants, was compared to wheat grown in soil from previously developed Silene gallica (SIL), a non-mycotrophic plant. Wheat grown after LOL or ORN had 60% higher dry weight, ca. two-fold lower Mn levels and almost double P contents. Mn in the shoots was preferentially translocated to the apoplast along with Mg and P. The activity of catalase increased; however, guaiacol peroxidase (GPX) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) showed lower activities. Wheat grown after ORN differed from that grown after LOL by displaying slightly higher Mn levels, higher root Mg and Ca levels and higher GPX and Mn-SOD activities. The AMF consortia established from these native plants can promote distinct biochemical mechanisms for protecting wheat against Mn toxicity.

Pleiotropic and multi-systemic actions of physical exercise on PGC-1α signaling during the aging process.

Physical training is a potent therapeutic approach for improving mitochondrial health through peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1 alpha (PGC-1α) signaling pathways. However, comprehensive information regarding the physical training impact on PGC-1α in the different physiological systems with advancing age is not fully understood. This review sheds light on the frontier-of-knowledge data regarding the chronic effects of exercise on the PGC-1α signaling pathways in rodents and humans. We address the molecular mechanisms involved in the different tissues, clarifying the precise biological action of PGC-1α, restricted to the aged cell type. Distinct exercise protocols (short and long-term) and modalities (aerobic and resistance exercise) increase the transcriptional and translational PGC-1α levels in adipose tissue, brain, heart, liver, and skeletal muscle in animal models, suggesting that this versatile molecule induces pleiotropic responses. However, PGC-1α function in some human tissues (adipose tissue, heart, and brain) remains challenging for further investigations. PGC-1α is not a simple transcriptional coactivator but supports a biochemical environment of mitochondrial dynamics, controlling physiological processes (primary metabolism, tissue remodeling, autophagy, inflammation, and redox balance). Acting as an adaptive mechanism, the long-term effects of PGC-1α following exercise may reflect the energy demand to coordinate multiple organs and contribute to cellular longevity.

Diphenyl diselenide suppresses key virulence factors of Candida krusei, a neglected fungal pathogen.

Candida krusei is a candidiasis etiological agent of relevance in the clinical setting because of its intrinsic resistance to fluconazole. Also, it has opened up new paths in the area of alternative therapeutic techniques. This project demonstrated the effects of diphenyl diselenide (PhSe)2 and p-cloro diphenyl diselenide (pCl-PhSe)2, two organochalcogen compounds, on relevant virulence factors for the early stage of the C. krusei host interaction and infection process. Both compounds inhibited adherence of C. krusei to both polystyrene surfaces and cervical epithelial cells and biofilm formation; the structure of the biofilm was also changed in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, both compounds inhibited C. krusei growth, but (PhSe)2 significantly increased the time duration of the lag phase and delayed the start of the exponential phase in growth kinetics. (PhSe)2 has more potential antifungal activity than (pCl-PhSe)2 in inhibiting the adherence to epithelial cells, biofilm formation, and growth of C. krusei.

(MeOPhSe)2, a synthetic organic selenium compound, inhibits virulence factors of Candida krusei: Adherence to cervical epithelial cells and biofilm formation.

BACKGROUND: Systemic candidiasis is produced by Candida albicans or non-albicans Candida species, opportunistic fungi that produce both superficial and invasive infections. Despite the availability of a wide range of antifungal agents for the treatment of candidiasis, failure of therapy is observed frequently, which opens new avenues in the field of alternative therapeutic strategies. METHODS: The effects of p,p'-methoxyl-diphenyl diselenide [(MeOPhSe)2], a synthetic organic selenium (organochalcogen) compound, were investigated on virulence factors of C. krusei and compared with its antifungal effects on the virulence factors related to adhesion to cervical epithelial cell surfaces with C. albicans. RESULTS: (MeOPhSe)2, a compound non-toxic in epithelial (HeLa) and fibroblastic (Vero) cells, inhibited the growth in a dose-dependent manner and changed the kinetics parameters of C. krusei and, most importantly, extending the duration of lag phase of growth, inhibiting biofilm formation, and changing the structure of biofilm. Also, (MeOPhSe)2 reduced C. albicans and C. krusei adherence to cervical epithelial cells, an important factor for the early stage of the Candida-host interaction. The reduction was 37.24 ± 2.7 % in C. krusei (p = 0.00153) and 32.84 ± 3.2 % in C. albicans (p = 0.0072) at 20 µM (MeOPhSe)2, and the effect is in a concentration-dependent manner. Surprisingly, the antifungal potential on adhesion was similar between both species, indicating the potential of (MeOPhSe)2 as a promising antifungal drug against different Candida infections. CONCLUSION: Overall, we demonstrated the potential of (MeOPhSe)2 as an effective antifungal drug against the virulence factors of Candida species.

Dimethoate residues in Pakistan and mitigation strategies through microbial degradation: a review.

Organophosphate pesticides (OPs) are used extensively for crop protection worldwide due to their high water solubility and relatively low persistence in the environment compared to other pesticides, such as organochlorines. Dimethoate is a broad-spectrum insecticide that belongs to the thio-organophosphate group of OPs. It is applied to cash crops, animal farms, and houses. It has been used in Pakistan since the 1960s, either alone or in a mixture with other OPs or pyrethroids. However, the uncontrolled use of this pesticide has resulted in residual accumulation in water, soil, and tissues of plants via the food chain, causing toxic effects. This review article has compiled and analyzed data reported in the literature between 1998 and 2021 regarding dimethoate residues and their microbial bioremediation. Different microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and algae have shown potential for bioremediation. However, an extensive role of bacteria has been observed compared to other microorganisms. Twenty bacterial, three fungal, and one algal genus with potential for the remediation of dimethoate have been assessed. Active bacterial biodegraders belong to four classes (i) alpha-proteobacteria, (ii) gamma-proteobacteria, (iii) beta-proteobacteria, and (iv) actinobacteria and flavobacteria. Microorganisms, especially bacterial species, are a sustainable technology for dimethoate bioremediation from environmental samples. Yet, new microbial species or consortia should be explored.

TEOS Nanocomposites for the Consolidation of Carbonate Stone: The Effect of Nano-HAp and Nano-SiO2 Modifiers.

This study aimed at evaluating the effect of hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanosized structures and nanoparticles of hydrophilic silica as modifiers of both acid- and alkaline-catalysed tetraethoxysilane (TEOS)-based products for the consolidation of carbonate stones. Their initial effectiveness and some compatibility aspects were assessed in a porous limestone (sound and artificially aged Ançã stone samples) and two types of treatment (capillary absorption and brushing). The studied products were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and micro-Raman spectroscopy. Their depth of penetration and strengthening effect were evaluated through drilling resistance. Their action on the substrate was also further assessed by non-destructive methods based on colour variation and Shore-D hardness. Treated stone samples were dissimilarly affected by the tested treatments and exhibited a significant increase in strength with a low risk of over-strengthening. Adequate in-depth penetration patterns, as well as colour compatibility with the substrate were obtained with some of the prepared formulations through two types of treatment, both in sound and aged stone samples. The potential most effective treatments with the lowest colour change were obtained with the acid-catalysed TEOS-based products modified with HAp nanosized structures.

Recrutamento, retenção, presença e adesão de um ensaio clínico aleatorizado para avaliar os efeitos do treino específico da tarefa em indivíduos pós-acidente vascular encefálico / Selección, retención, asistencia y adherencia de un ensayo clínico aleatorizado para evaluar los efectos del entrenamiento específico de tareas en sujetos pos-accidente cerebrovascular / Recruitment, retention, attendance, and adherence of a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effects of task-specific training with individuals post stroke

RESUMO Indivíduos acometidos pelo acidente vascular encefálico (AVE) se beneficiam de diferentes estratégias terapêuticas que apresentam comprovação da eficácia por meio da condução de ensaios clínicos aleatorizados (ECA) bem delineados. Compreender as etapas do estudo pode auxiliar os pesquisadores na realização de futuros ensaios clínicos. Dessa forma, o objetivo deste estudo foi descrever o processo de recrutamento, retenção, presença e adesão na condução de um ECA realizado com indivíduos pós-AVE na fase crônica na cidade de Belo Horizonte (MG), Brasil, com o propósito de investigar a eficácia do treino específico da tarefa para membros superiores e inferiores na melhora do nível de atividade física e mobilidade. Nos resultados, foi observado que dos 674 potenciais participantes, não foi possível contatar 240; 384 não foram avaliados por não atenderem aos critérios de elegibilidade. Participaram da avaliação presencial 50 indivíduos e 14 não fizeram parte do estudo pelo mesmo motivo. Apenas 36 indivíduos iniciaram as intervenções (taxa de recrutamento de 5,3%). Uma taxa de retenção de 80,6% foi observada. Sete indivíduos abandonaram o estudo, principalmente por desinteresse pelas atividades. A taxa de presença foi de 80,9%, e o principal motivo para ausência nas sessões foi incompatibilidade de horário com as consultas médicas. A taxa de adesão foi de 82,7%, com 180 interrupções durante as sessões, sendo sair mais cedo o motivo mais comum. Esses resultados indicam algumas dificuldades no processo de condução do ECA com indivíduos na fase crônica do AVE envolvendo treino específico da tarefa. Apesar dessas dificuldades, a intervenção proposta pode ser considerada viável.

RESUMEN Las personas afectadas por accidente cerebrovascular (ACV) tienen a su disposición diferentes estrategias terapéuticas que muestran evidencia de eficacia a través de la realización de ensayos clínicos aleatorizados (ECA) bien diseñados. Conocer las etapas del estudio puede ayudar a los investigadores a realizar futuros ensayos clínicos. Así, el objetivo de este estudio fue describir el proceso de selección, retención, asistencia y adherencia de un ECA realizado con individuos post-ACV en fase crónica en la ciudad de Belo Horizonte (Brasil), para investigar la efectividad del entrenamiento específico de tareas para las extremidades superiores e inferiores en la mejora del nivel de actividad física y la movilidad. En los resultados se observó que, de los 674 potenciales participantes, no fue posible contactar a 240; y 384 no fueron evaluados por no cumplir con los criterios de elegibilidad. Cincuenta personas participaron en la evaluación presencial y 14 no formaron parte del estudio por la misma razón. Solo 36 personas empezaron las intervenciones (tasa de selección del 5,3%). Se observó una tasa de retención del 80,6%. Siete personas abandonaron el estudio, principalmente por falta de interés en las actividades. La tasa de asistencia fue del 80,9%, y el principal motivo de ausencia a las sesiones fue la incompatibilidad de horario con las citas médicas. La tasa de adherencia fue del 82,7%, con 180 interrupciones durante las sesiones, y la salida anticipada fue la razón más frecuente. Los resultados apuntan algunas dificultades en el proceso de realización del ECA con individuos en fase crónica del ACV con relación al entrenamiento específico de tarea. A pesar de esto, la intervención propuesta puede considerarse viable.

ABSTRACT Individuals who suffered stroke benefit from different therapeutic strategies whose efficacy has been proved by well-designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Understanding study steps may assist researchers in conducting future RCTs. Thus, the objective of this study was to describe the process of recruitment, retention, attendance, and adherence in conducting RCTs with individuals in the chronic phase of stroke in the municipality of Belo Horizonte/MG/Brazil, with the purpose of investigating the efficacy of specific task training for both lower and upper limbs in improving patients' physical activity and mobility. Results showed that, of the 674 potential participants, it was impossible to contact 240 individuals and 384 were excluded from our sample for failing to meet eligibility criteria. In total, 50 individuals participated in clinical evaluations and 14 were excluded from the study for the same reason. Overall, 36 individuals started the interventions, a 5.3% recruitment rate. An 80.6% retention rate was observed. In total, seven individuals left the study, mainly due to lack of interest in the activities. We found an 80.9% attendance rate, and the main reason for missing medical appointments was incompatibility with treatment schedule. We also observed an 82.7% adherence rate. Of these, 180 interrupted sessions were mainly due to patients leaving early. These results indicate some difficulties found in conducting RCTs with individuals in the chronic phase of stroke, especially regarding specific task training. Despite these difficulties, the proposed intervention can be considered feasible.

Diversity of Native Arbuscular Mycorrhiza Extraradical Mycelium Influences Antioxidant Enzyme Activity in Wheat Grown Under Mn Toxicity.

Sustainable agricultural practices based on the development of native arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can improve crop growth and stress tolerance in acidic soils with manganese toxicity. The beneficial effects are stronger when crops are colonized early in development by an intact extraradical mycelium (ERM), but are dependent on AMF assemblage. In wheat colonized by AMF associated to Lolium rigidum L. (LOL) or Ornithopus compressus (ORN), growth and stress tolerance are differently influenced. In the present study, this functional diversity was studied by evaluating the activity of ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), guaiacol peroxidase (GPX), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Mn-SOD. ORN treatment promoted higher wheat shoot and root dry weights, a higher root protein content, decreased root APX, GR and SOD activities but a higher proportion of MnSOD activity. ORN associated microbiota differently manage antioxidant enzyme activity of succeeding wheat to improve growth.

Temporal analysis of demographic and biometric parameters of the Mangalarga breed / Análise temporal de parâmetros demográficos e biométricos da raça Mangalarga

ABSTRACT: This study analyzed the demographic and biometric changes in registered animals of the Mangalarga breed over the decades. Information from 206,428 Mangalarga horses born between 1930 and 2018 extracted from the genealogic registry system of the Associação Brasileira de Criadores de Cavalos da Raça Mangalarga was employed. The data referred to sex, birth date, fur coat, breeding site location, score achieved at genealogic registration, and three body measurements. Height at withers and the thoracic and cannon bone circumferences were used to calculate five morphometric indices. Results were submitted to analysis of variance using a completely randomized split-plot design where the plots comprised the sexes and the split-plots comprised the decades of selection. Between 1930 and 1990, genealogic registrations progressively increased, particularly in the 1970s and 80s, when the herd experienced the highest growth rate. In 2018, Mangalarga breeding sites were reported in 23 Brazilian states and the states of São Paulo, Minas Gerais, and Bahia held the largest herds. Between 1970 and 2018, the height at withers of mares, stallions, and geldings increased by 5.1, 3.1, and 2.1 cm, respectively. The thoracic circumference of stallions increased by 3.3 cm and the cannon bone circumference of mares decreased by 0.34 cm. It is concluded that the Mangalarga breed is found across Brazil, especially in the Southeast region. Irrespective of sex, the selection of the breed has led to taller Mangalarga horses. In addition, the stallions became heavier and gained thoracic circumference, while mares became hypometric.

RESUMO: Objetivou-se analisar as alterações demográficas e biométricas dos animais registrados da raça Mangalarga, ao longo das décadas. Foram utilizadas informações de 206.428 equinos Mangalarga, extraídas do sistema de registro genealógico da Associação Brasileira de Criadores de Cavalos da Raça Mangalarga. Dos animais nascidos entre 1930 e 2018, foram consideradas informações referentes ao sexo, data de nascimento, pelagem, localização do criatório, pontuação obtida no ato do registro genealógico e três medidas corporais dos equinos. Utilizando a medida de altura à cernelha e os perímetros torácico e de canela foram calculados cinco índices morfométricos. Os resultados foram submetidos à análise de variância, utilizando delineamento inteiramente ao acaso em esquema de parcelas subdivididas, sendo as parcelas compostas pelos sexos e as subparcelas constituídas pelas décadas de seleção. Entre 1930 e 1990 houve aumento progressivo na emissão de registros genealógicos, com destaque para as décadas de 70 e 80, quando se registrou maior taxa de crescimento do rebanho. Em 2018 identificou-se criatórios da raça Mangalarga em 23 estados brasileiros, sendo o Estado de São Paulo detentor do maior rebanho, seguido de Minas Gerais e Bahia. Entre 1970 e 2018 registrou-se aumento na altura à cernelha das fêmeas, garanhões e machos castrados, que se tornaram 5,1 cm, 3,1 cm e 2,1 cm mais altos, respectivamente. Enquanto o perímetro torácico dos garanhões aumentou 3,3 cm, o perímetro de canela das fêmeas reduziu 0,34 cm. Concluiu-se que a raça Mangalarga está distribuída por todo o Brasil, com destaque para a região sudeste. Independente do sexo, a seleção aplicada à raça tornou os equinos Mangalarga mais altos. Além disso, os garanhões ficaram mais pesados e com maior perímetro torácico e as fêmeas tornaram-se hipométricas.

Role of TLR4 in physical exercise and cardiovascular diseases.

Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of death for adults worldwide. Published articles have shown that toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), a member of the toll-like receptor (TLR) family, is involved in several cardiovascular diseases and can be modulated by physical exercise. TLR4 is the most expressed TLR in cardiac tissue and is an essential mediator of the inflammatory and apoptosis processes in the heart, playing a pivotal role in the development of cardiovascular diseases. Physical exercise is recognized as a non-pharmacological strategy for the prevention and treatment of these diseases. In addition, physical exercise can modulate the TLR4 in the mice heart, and its absence attenuates apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and inflammation. However, the relationship between TLR4 and physical exercise-induced cardiac adaptations has barely been explored. Thus, the objective of this brief review was to discuss studies describing how TLR4 influences cardiac responses to physical exercise and present a link between these responses and cardiovascular diseases, showing physical activity improves the cardiac function of individuals with cardiovascular diseases through the TLR4 modulation.

Toxic levels of manganese in an acidic Cambisol alters antioxidant enzymes activity, element uptake and subcellular distribution in Triticum aestivum.

In the Montado system, in Portuguese Alentejo region, some Eutric Cambisols are known to promote manganese (Mn) toxicity in wheat. Variation on bioavailable Mn concentration depends on soil acidity, which can be increased by natural events (e.g. waterlogging) or human activity (e.g. excess use of chemical fertilizers). The effect of increasing soil Mn on crop element uptake, element distribution and oxidative stress was evaluated on winter wheat (Triticum aestivum). Plants were grown for 3 weeks in an acidic Cambisol spiked with increasing Mn concentrations (0, 45.2 and 90.4 mg MnCl2/Kg soil). Calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), magnesium (Mg) and Mn were quantified in the soil solution, root and shoot tissues and respective subcellular fractions. The activity of the antioxidant enzymes ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), guaiacol peroxidase (GPX) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were determined in extracts of wheat shoots and roots. Overall, increase in soil bioavailable Mn inhibited the uptake of other elements, increased the Ca proportion in the root apoplast, promoted the translocation of Mn and P to shoot tissues and increased their proportion in the shoot vacuoles. Wheat roots showed greater antioxidant enzymes activities than shoots. These activities decreased at the highest soil Mn concentration in both plant parts. Wheat roots appear to be more sensitive to oxidative stress derived from excess soil Mn and promote Mn translocation and storage in shoot vacuoles, probably in Mn and P complexes, as a detoxification strategy. Improvement in wheat production, in acidic soils, may rely on the enhancement of its Mn detoxification strategies.

Analysis of the effects of low-level laser therapy on muscle fatigue of the biceps brachii muscle of healthy individuals and spastic individuals: Study protocol for a single-center, randomized, double-blind, and controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Muscular fatigue is caused by biochemical alterations that modify the mechanics of muscle contraction, resulting in negative changes in the performance of the contraction. Several resources are studied to mitigate this situation among which we can cite low-level laser therapy (LLLT). The effects of LLLT are being studied in healthy subjects with fibromyalgia and who are athletes, and currently the studies are being performed in spastic muscles with poststroke individuals. The aim will be to evaluate the effects of LLLT on the fatigue of the biceps brachii muscle of healthy individuals and individuals with spastic hemiparesis. METHODS: A cross-sectional, comparative, randomized, placebo, double-blind clinical trial will be divided into 2 phases: phase I shall consist of 30 healthy subjects and phase II of 30 poststroke individuals. The study will consist of 3 groups (control group, placebo group, and LLLT group), and all individuals will pass through all groups, following the randomization criteria. The protocol consists of the application of LLLT in the biceps brachii muscle on the dominant side in healthy individuals and in the hemiparetic side of poststroke individuals, and, subsequently, 3 maximal isometric voluntary contractions (MIVCs) will be performed for 50 seconds in the dynamometer, with an interval of 50 seconds between them. Pain intensity will be evaluated by means of the visual analog scale, and the myoelectric activity by means of surface electromyography associated with the evaluation of muscular strength by means of the dynamometer. The local temperature will be evaluated by infrared thermography and blood lactate concentration through the lactimeter, which will be measured at 4 different times, before the application of the laser (basal), and 3, 15, and 25 minutes after the MIVC.

Sensory-motor and cardiorespiratory sensory rehabilitation associated with transcranial photobiomodulation in patients with central nervous system injury: Trial protocol for a single-center, randomized, double-blind, and controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Central nervous system diseases such as stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, and multiple sclerosis can be fatal or cause sequelae, affecting sensorimotor and cardiorespiratory systems and quality of life. These subjects present a low response to aerobic and resistance exercise, due to decreased recruitment of muscle fibers and reduction of metabolic capacity. Aerobic exercises bring benefits in terms of fatigue retardation, gait improvement, regulation of the autonomic nervous system, neuroprotection of the brain, stimulation of the production of endogenous neutrotransmitters related to general well-being, and a favoring of neuroplasticity. Photobiomodulation (PBM Therapy) (previously known as low-level laser therapy), and especially transcranial PBM Therapy, has shown benefits in animals and humans such as cognitive improvement, memory, and behavioral improvement, including attenuation of depression and anxiety, and increased cortical oxygenation. The aims of this trial will be to evaluate the parameters related to the function of the musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory system and the impact of PBM therapy on these parameters, as part of a rehabilitation and training program for people with reduced mobility. METHODS: This is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 3 groups: Control, only cardiorespiratory rehabilitation (CCR), CCR with PBM Therapy (CR-PBM), CCR and placebo PBM Therapy (CR-PlaceboPBM). n = 90, 30 per group. PBM Therapy parameters: 810 nm laser, 0.028 cm, 100 mW, 3.5 W/cm, 30 seconds per point, 3 J per point, 107.1 J /cm to 3 electroencephalogram points F7 and F8 and AFz. The trial will be conducted at the University Clinics and the sessions will be 1 hour twice a week for 9 weeks. Baseline, intermediate (4th week), final (9th week), and 2-month follow-up will be performed. Muscular activation, heart rate variability, lung volumes and capacities, fatigability, exercise tolerance, cognition, and quality of life at baseline will be evaluated. Subsequent to baseline evaluations, the PBM Therapy groups will be offered laser therapy (active or inactive); all groups will then receive CCR. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ClinicalTrials.gov ID - NCT03751306 (approval date: November 22, 2018).

Biofilm formation by Candida albicans is inhibited by photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy (PACT), using chlorin e6: increase in both ROS production and membrane permeability.

Candida albicans is an opportunistic fungal producing both superficial and systemic infections in immunocompromised patients. Furthermore, it has been described an increase in the frequency of infections which have become refractory to standard antifungal therapy. Photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy (PACT) is a potential antimicrobial therapy that combines visible light and a nontoxic dye, known as a photosensitizer, producing reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can kill the treated cells. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of PACT, using chlorin e6, as a photosensitizer on C. albicans. In this work, we studied the effect of PACT on both cell growth and biofilm formation by C. albicans. In addition, both ROS production and cell permeability were determined after PACT. PACT inhibited both growth and biofilm formation by C. albicans. We have also observed that PACT increased both ROS production (six times) and cell membrane permeability (five times) in C. albicans. PACT decreased both cell growth and biofilm development. The effect of PACT using chlorin e6 on C. albicans could be associated with an increase in ROS production, which could increase cell permeability, producing permanent damage to the cell membranes, leading to the cell death.

Photodynamic Antimicrobial Chemotherapy (PACT), using Toluidine blue O inhibits the viability of biofilm produced by Candida albicans at different stages of development.

BACKGROUND: Candida albicans is an opportunistic fungus producing both superficial and systemic infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals. It has been demonstrated that C. albicans ability to form biofilms is a crucial process for colonization and virulence. Furthermore, a correlation between the development of drug resistance and biofilm maturation at Candida biofilms has been shown. Photodynamic Antimicrobial Chemotherapy (PACT) is a potential antimicrobial therapy that combines visible light and a non-toxic dye, known as a photosensitizer, producing reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can kill the treated cells. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of PACT, using Toluidine Blue O (TBO) on the viability of biofilms produced by C. albicans at different stages of development. METHODS: In this study, the effects of PACT on both biofilm formation and viability of the biofilm produced by C. albicans were studied. Biofilm formation and viability were determined by a metabolic assay based on the reduction of XTT assay. In addition, the morphology of the biofilm was observed using light microscopy. RESULTS: PACT inhibited both biofilm formation and viability of the biofilm produced by C. albicans. Furthermore, PACT was able to decrease the number of both cells and filamentous form present in the biofilm structure. This inhibitory effect was observed in both early and mature biofilms. CONCLUSIONS: The results obtained in this study demonstrated the potential of PACT (using TBO) as an effective antifungal therapy, including against infections associated with biofilms at different stages of development.

Principal components for the in vivo and carcass conformations of Anglo-Nubian crossbred goats / Componentes principais para conformações in vivo e das carcaças em caprinos mestiços da raça Anglo-Nubiana

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to identify the principal components (PC) that explain the highest percentages of total variance and best characterize the in vivo and carcass morphologies of Anglo-Nubian crossbred goats. Nineteen carcass morphometric traits and six in vivo morphometric traits were measured in 28 kids at eight months of age. Principal component analysis indicated that five PC were able to explain 83.57% of the total variance in the 19 original carcass traits. Those components were termed PC1-Carcass Size, PC2 - Body Condition, PC3-Carcass Width, PC4-Chest Depth, and PC5 - Hindquarter. For in vivo morphometric traits, the first two principal components explained 78.86% of the total variance. These components were called PC1-In vivo Size and PC2-In vivo Conformation.

RESUMO: Este estudo buscou identificar componentes principais (CP) que explicam os maiores percentuais de variância total e que melhor caracterizam cabritos mestiços da raça Anglo Nubiana, quanto à medidas morfológicas obtidas in vivo, e na carcaça de 28 animais com 8 meses de idade. Foram conduzidas duas análises de componentes principais, sendo uma para 19 características de carcaça e outra para seis características morfométricas in vivo. Os cinco primeiros CP explicaram 82,54% da variância total das 19 características incluídas nessa análise. Estes componentes foram chamados de: CP1 - Tamanho da Carcaça, CP2 - Condição Corporal, CP3 - Largura da Carcaça, CP4 - Profundidade do Tórax e, CP5 - Comprimento do Pernil. Os dois primeiros componentes principais das morfometrias obtidas in vivo explicaram 78,86% da variância total e foram chamados de CP1 - Tamanho in vivo e CP2 - Conformação in vivo.

Excessive training is associated with endoplasmic reticulum stress but not apoptosis in the hypothalamus of mice.

Downhill running-based overtraining model increases the hypothalamic levels of IL-1ß, TNF-α, SOCS3, and pSAPK-JNK. The aim of the present study was to verify the effects of 3 overtraining protocols on the levels of BiP, pIRE-1 (Ser724), pPERK (Thr981), pelF2α (Ser52), ATF-6, GRP-94, caspase 4, caspase 12, pAKT (Ser473), pmTOR (Ser2448), and pAMPK (Thr172) proteins in the mouse hypothalamus. The mice were randomized into the control, overtrained by downhill running (OTR/down), overtrained by uphill running (OTR/up), and overtrained by running without inclination (OTR) groups. After the overtraining protocols (i.e., at the end of week 8), hypothalamus was removed and used for immunoblotting. The OTR/down group exhibited increased levels of all of the analyzed endoplasmic reticulum stress markers in the hypothalamus at the end of week 8. The OTR/up and OTR groups exhibited increased levels of BiP, pIRE-1 (Ser724), and pPERK (Thr981) in the hypothalamus at the end of week 8. There were no significant differences in the levels of caspase 4, caspase 12, pAKT (Ser473), pmTOR (Ser2448), and pAMPK (Thr172) between the experimental groups at the end of week 8. In conclusion, the 3 overtraining protocols increased the endoplasmic reticulum stress at the end of week 8.