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Fibromyalgia (FM) is a rheumatic syndrome that causes musculoskeletal disorders and is associated with several problems that affect quality of life. As the musculoskeletal system is affected, it can have an impact on the pelvic floor muscles, leading to pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD).Investigate the occurrence of PFD, such as urinary incontinence (UI) and anal incontinence (AI), sexual problems, and pelvic organ prolapse (POP), in women with FM compared to a control group composed of women without FM; and investigate the association between FM and PFD.This was an online cross-sectional survey. Demographic and anthropometric data, the description of PFD (UI, nocturia, AI, genital-pelvic pain/penetration disorder, and POP), and previous obstetric history were collected through a web-based questionnaire. The groups were compared using the independent t-test for quantitative variables and the chi-square test for categorical variables. The association between FM and PFD was tested using logistic regression analysis.A total of 175 women answered the questionnaire (97 with FM and 78 healthy controls). The women with FM reported significantly more UI, mixed urinary incontinence, AI, POP, and vaginismus than the healthy controls (p ≤ 0.05). FM was associated with mixed urinary incontinence (OR: 2.6; 95 % CI: 1.1-6.4; p = 0.04), anal incontinence (OR: 2.9; 95 % CI: 1.3-6.1; p = 0.01), and flatus incontinence (OR: 2.6; 95 % CI: 1.2-5.4; p = 0.01).The prevalence of PFD was significantly higher in women with FM compared to healthy women. Indeed, the women with FM were 2.6-fold to 2.9-fold more likely to report mixed urinary incontinence, anal and flatus incontinence than those in the control group. The present findings show possible impairment of the pelvic floor musculature in women with FM.

Background The isokinetic dynamometer has been considered the gold-standard measurement of muscle performance. However, the reliability for the isometric and isokinetic wrist flexor and extensor strength using the Biodex isokinetic dynamometer has not been reported to date. This study evaluated test-retest reliability of isometric and isokinetic wrist strength using the Biodex System 3 isokinetic dynamometer. Methods This is a test-retest reliability study. Peak concentric and isometric torque was determined of the dominant limb wrist flexor and extensor of healthy individuals using the Biodex Multi-Joint System 3 dynamometer. The participants were evaluated by the same examiner in two different sessions separated by an interval of two to seven days. Reliability was investigated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC2,1), standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimum detectable difference (MDD). Results Twenty healthy subjects participated in the study. The ICCs for concentric and isometric torque of the wrist flexor and extensor ranged from 0.79 to 0.91, revealing excellent intra-examiner test-retest reliability; SEM ranging from 0.4 to 1.5; and MDD ranged from 1.12 Nm to 4.17 Nm. Conclusions Excellent intra-examiner test-retest reliability was found regarding peak concentric toque of the wrist flexor and extensor at an angular velocity of 45°/s as well as isometric torque of the wrist flexor and extensor in healthy individuals measured using the Biodex System 3 isokinetic dynamometer.

As a result of the impairment of the musculoskeletal system, the pelvic floor muscles are likely compromised in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We hypothesized that women with SLE would report more symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) and there will be an association between SLE and PFD.An online cross-sectional survey was conducted. Data were collected on demographic and anthropometric characteristics, PFD (urinary incontinence, nocturia, anal incontinence, genital-pelvic pain/penetration disorder and pelvic organ prolapse) and obstetric history using a web-based questionnaire. The groups were compared using the Mann-Whitney test for quantitative variables and the chi-squared test for categorical variables. The association between SLE and PFD was tested using logistic regression analysis.A total of 196 women answered the questionnaire (102 with SLE and 94 healthy controls). Women with SLE reported significantly more urinary incontinence, nocturia, anal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and genital-pelvic pain/penetration disorder than the healthy controls (p ≤ 0.05). Women with SLE were 2.8- to 3.0-fold more likely to report genital-pelvic pain/penetration disorder than healthy women.The prevalence of PFD was significantly higher in women with SLE compared to healthy women. Thus, PFD seems to be an important problem in women with this disease. An in-depth investigation of these disorders could contribute to the understanding of how SLE impacts pelvic floor function.

Resumo: Este trabalho procurou analisar os benefícios que o jogo de xadrez pode proporcionar para o desenvolvimento psicossocial. Tendo como objetivo evidenciar a contribuição do xadrez para desenvolvimento psicológico e social do indivíduo. O estudo é de natureza qualitativa de base metodológica, de revisão de literatura. À medida que o indivíduo cresce suas funções vitais se desenvolvem de acordo com as características da fase e idade. Para que haja maturação satisfatória, o meio em que se está inserido irá contribuir significativamente para seu desenvolvimento, especialmente o cognitivo. Para tanto a utilização de jogos torna-se bastante eficaz na busca exploratória das potencialidades do sujeito, como também promove aprendizagem. Com tudo o jogo de xadrez se apropria dessa premissa por ser um jogo que possibilita os praticantes estimular a atenção, a percepção, a memória. Alguns estudos abordados no trabalho elucidam os benefícios que o xadrez traz para quem o pratica. Portanto, conclui-se que o jogo de xadrez é um recurso psicopedagógico devido às peculiaridades próprias do jogo, capaz de fomentar e desenvolver habilidades e aptidões.

Objective Investigate the impact of urinary incontinence (UI) on quality of life (QoL) in female CrossFit practitioners and to verify the strategies used by them to minimize the occurrence of urine leakage. In addition, to verify whether anthropometric and clinical characteristics increase the UI impact on QoL of female CrossFit practitioners. Study Design This was an online cross-sectional survey. The impact of UI on QoL was investigated by International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire - Short Form (ICIQ-SF). Associations between the impact of UI on QoL and the clinical (age, BMI, gestations, mode of delivery, practice of other physical activities) and the others pelvic floor dysfunctions (PFD) related independent variables were tested using logistic regression analysis. Results A total of 828 female CrossFit practitioners answered the questionnaire and 36% reported UI symptoms. The women who obtained the highest score on the ICIQ-SF have high UI interference in QoL. Previous history of two or more gestations and sexual dysfunctions (dyspareunia or vaginismus) or pelvic organ prolapse increase 2.65 and 1.82 times the risk of female CrossFit practitioners with UI having a high impact of UI on their QoL, respectively (OR = 2.65 95% CI 1.30–5.40, p = 0.01; and OR = 1.82 95% CI 1.04–3.21, p = 0.04, respectively). The most strategies used by them to minimize the occurrence of urine leakage were emptying the bladder before training (77.5%) and use absorbent (17.8%). Conclusions Women who had higher scores on the ICIQ-SF reported greater impact on QoL, and the previous history of two or more gestations and sexual dysfunction/pelvic organ prolapse increase the risk of women with UI who practice CrossFit to have a greater impact on QoL. Multigravida and women with sexual dysfunction/pelvic organ prolapse who practice CrossFit could have more attention on the UI symptoms due to the high impact on their QoL.

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the association between ankle torque and performance-based tests, self-reported pain, and physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Patients and methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted with 39 individuals (24 females, 15 males; mean age: 57.3±6.2 years; range, 40 to 65 years) with knee OA between January 2014 and July 2015. Ankle torque was determined using an isokinetic dynamometer. The 40-m fast-paced walk test and a stair climb test were used to assess functional performance. Self-reported pain and physical function were assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Pearson’s correlation coefficients were calculated to test correlations between the dependent variables (40-m fast-paced walk test, stair climb test, WOMAC pain and physical function domains, sex, age, body mass index, and radiologic evidence of OA) and the independent variables (mean plantar flexor torque and dorsiflexor peak torque). A multiple linear regression analysis was applied to quantify the association between the dependent and independent variables. Results: Dorsiflexor and plantar flexor peak torques in the concentric and eccentric modes were negatively correlated with the 40-m fast-paced walk and stair climb tests (r=-0.33 to -0.51, p≤0.05). A negative correlation was found between concentric plantar flexor torque and the WOMAC physical function score (r=-0.35, p=0.03). No correlation was found between ankle torques and the WOMAC pain score (p>0.05). The multiple linear regression analysis showed that the eccentric plantar flexor and dorsiflexor torques were significantly associated with the stair climb test (β=-0.001, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.001 to 0.000, p=0.03, and β=-0.002, 95% CI: -0.004 to 0.000, p=0.05, respectively). No significant associations were found between concentric plantar flexor and dorsiflexor torques and the stair climb test (p>0.05). No significant associations were found between the ankle torques and the 40-m fast-paced walk test and WOMAC physical function (p>0.05). Conclusion: Ankle torque plays an important role in functional performance. Thus, ankle torque deficit, especially eccentric plantar flexor and dorsiflexor torques, may exert a negative influence on stair climbing performance in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Aim To perform a systematic review of available mHealth apps for menstrual cycle monitoring in Brazil. Methods A search for menstrual cycle mHealth apps from the Google Play Store and AppStore in Brazil was performed by two independent reviewers on October 2020, and the quality of eligible mHealth apps was assessed using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). Results Our review identified 2400 potentially relevant mHealth apps, of which 56 were eligible for inclusion. The majority of the apps offered tools to track menstruation symptoms (63%) and educational content for users (32%). The mean ( ±SD) MARS app quality score for the 28 evaluated apps in Android was 3.5 ± 0.6 on a 0-5 scale. For the 28 evaluated apps in iOS, the mean app quality score was 3.8 ± 0.4. Most of the included apps, for both systems, scored average for credibility, user interface, and engagement. Conclusion The majority of available tools in Brazil are of moderate quality and limited functionality for menstrual cycle monitoring. This study highlights the top three mHealth apps available on each online store for individuals seeking menstrual cycle monitoring options.

A pandemia gerada pelo novo Coronavírus, Covid-19, enfrentado pelo mundo, traz repercussões nas áreas da saúde, e gera impactos econômicos, sociais, políticos e culturais. A pandemia revolucionou o modo de viver e criou novos hábitos na sociedade. A higienização das mãos é uma das principais formas de se prevenir de doenças, haja vista que as mãos tocam diversas superfícies e até outras pessoas, podendo estas estarem infectadas por microrganismos e, ao levar as mãos à boca ou aos olhos, esses seres podem entrar em nosso corpo causando as doenças. Uma das formas de combate ao vírus sugerida por especialistas da área da saúde é a de lavar as mãos com água e sabão e em caso de impossibilidade utilizar o álcool 70%, na forma gel ou líquido. Nesse sentido, foi iniciada a corrida mundial pelo álcool 70%, sem que as indústrias estivessem preparadas para esse atendimento repentino do mercado. No Brasil todos os estabelecimentos comerciais foram obrigados a disponibilizar aos clientes o álcool 70%, principalmente na forma em gel. Desta forma, foi proposto no presente trabalho a verificação por meio de análises físico químicas da solução alcoólica 70%, oferecida nos estabelecimentos comerciais durante a pandemia. As análises físico químicas foram efetuadas em laboratório com auxílio dos equipamentos apropriados, dentro do que regulamenta a legislação vigente. Os resultados demonstraram a insatisfação de algumas amostras analisadas, quando comparadas à legislação vigente, comprovando que o álcool 70% oferecido, não garante a proteção à saúde do consumidor que frequenta o estabelecimento.&nbsp

Rheumatic diseases are serious conditions with a low uptake of conservative treatments. Mobile health (mHealth) applications (apps) offer potential to assist the self-management of rheumatic diseases. Our goal was to perform a systematic review of available mHealth apps for rheumatic diseases in Brazil. We focused on the most prevalent rheumatic diseases: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, systemic lupus erythematosus, osteoporosis, and axial spondylarthritis. Google Play Store and AppStore in Brazil were queried by two independent reviewers on September 2020, and the quality of eligible mHealth apps was assessed using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). Of the 3173 mHealth apps found, five were eligible for inclusion. Two for fibromyalgia and two for axial spondylarthritis offered exercise, educational content, and tools to track patient-reported symptoms; and one for osteoporosis offered educational content and tracking tools only. The included apps scored moderately on the MARS quality scale, with a mean score (SD) of 3.1 (0.7) on a 0-5 scale. Most apps scored poorly based on credibility, user interface and experience, and engagement. There is growing interest in the development of mHealth technologies to support rheumatic diseases patients. Although the majority of the included apps came from non-profit organizations, they are still of poor quality and limited functionality. This study is a call for to the development of new user-centered mHealth apps that can empower rheumatic diseases patients in Brazil, especially in the area of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus, since no apps were found.

It is known that high-impact exercises can cause an increase in intra-abdominal pressure and provide overload in the pelvic floor structures. We hypothesized that female CrossFit practitioners would report symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) and that there will be factors associated with these dysfunctions. The study design is an online cross-sectional survey. Demographic and anthropometric data, the characterization of CrossFit activity, the description of PFD and previous obstetric history were collected through a structured web-based questionnaire. Associations between PFD and the clinical and CrossFit-related independent variables were tested using logistic regression analysis. A total of 828 female CrossFit practitioners answered the questionnaire. The most prevalent symptom was anal incontinence (AI) (52.7%), with flatus incontinence (FI) being the most reported (93.3%). Women who reported constipation are 1.7 times more likely to have FI, and women who practice CrossFit more than five times a week are 3.0 times more likely to have FI. Urinary incontinence(UI) affected 36% of women, and 84.2% of participants reported urinary loss during CrossFit practice. The occurrence of dyspareunia was reported by 48.7% and showed an inverse association with age and body mass index. POP was reported by only 1.4% of the sample. There is a high prevalence of PFD in female CrossFit practitioners, with AI being the most reported symptom, especially FI. In addition, constipation and weekly training frequency were significantly associated with FI. UI occurred primarily in CrossFit exercises, and dyspareunia was the most prevalent sexual symptom.

The objective of this study was to verify the effects of a dancing intervention on mood states in a woman with fibromyalgia. A case report in which an intervention protocol consisted of dance classes of 2 sessions per week for 6 weeks, totaling 12 sessions. The List of Mood States - Reduced and Illustrated version (LOMS-RI) was applied before and after each intervention session. The LOMS-RI contains 14 adjectives, and each is represented by a drawing of a face with its corresponding expression. Each of the adjectives presented a scale of four values. A descriptive analysis was performed. The proposed protocol promoted a positive influence in which there was an increase in the positive adjective set score after each session. In addition, there was a decrease in the negative adjective set score after all sessions, except the first session. So, the dance protocol can positively influence the mood states in woman with fibromyalgia.

The need for technology professionals is growing every day, making it increasingly strategic and attractive. The insertion of women in this context provides opportunities for gender equality. However, the percentage of women in this area is still relatively lower than that of men and in other areas of knowledge. This scenario is evolving, and female participation is gradually increasing thanks to the various initiatives that promote gender equity in education and the job market. This work presents the possibility of building spaces aimed at the participation, encouragement, and training of students in the technology area, focusing on the female audience in public schools. The proposal consists of the development of theoretical-practical workshops with primary contents of robotics and programming coordinated by women. For that, students and teachers in the area of science and mathematics were selected and acted as facilitators and multipliers of the proposal in schools. Despite the lack of knowledge of robotics concepts by teachers and students, an important interest in learning was observed. Regarding the difficulties experienced in the workshop execution, the initiative proved to be a promising mechanism to stimulate learning, awakening curiosity, and interest among the participants, especially the students.

EXEMPLIFYING THE USE OF MACRO ELEMENTAL MAPPING BY XRF (MA-XRF) SCANNING IN FORENSIC INVESTIGATION OF ARTWORKS. This work exemplifies the potential of employing macro elemental mapping by XRF (MA-XRF) scanning in the forensic investigation of artworks. The results of the investigation of two artworks of different styles and periods are presented and discussed. The images provided by MA-XRF scanning have information about the elemental distribution, which is related to pigments used in the artwork. These images bring different information such as: if there are underlying paintings; if a given pigment was used for the purpose of restoration or in the creation. Therefore, through the images, it is possible to obtain information, which refers to the process of creating the artwork and the history of conservation and restoration. Through the results, it was possible to verify that the two artworks are probably false because they present anachronistic pigments with the supposed period of creation. The analyzes were performed using a portable MA-XRF scanning system, and in addition to presenting the utility of the instrument in these investigations, the work also presents possibilities to explore the MA-XRF data through multivariate statistical analysis and image correlation.

Our objective was to investigate kinematic and kinetic characteristics and changes in muscle function in individuals with patellofemoral osteoarthritis compared to healthy individuals.Searches were performed of the Medline, Embase, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, LILACS, and SciELO databases until May of 2022 for observational studies comparing individuals with patellofemoral osteoarthritis to a control group. The PRISMA guidelines and recommendations of the Cochrane Collaboration were followed. The GRADE approach was used to analyze and synthesize the level of evidence.Fourteen studies were included, involving a total of 594 participants (360 with patellofemoral osteoarthritis and 234 controls). The level of evidence for pelvis, hip adduction and knee abduction angles at 45° of knee flexion during the single-leg squat, and knee flexion angle during the task of walking was very low. Regarding muscle strength, the level of evidence for isometric strength of the hip abductors, extensors and external rotators, and concentric strength of the knee extensors and flexors was very low. It was not possible to synthesize any type of evidence for kinetic, electromyography, or muscle volume variables.The level of evidence was very low for all synthesized evidence for kinematic and muscle strength variables. However, individuals with patellofemoral osteoarthritis have lower isometric strength of the hip abductor muscles. Further studies with adequate adjustment for confounding factors, such as the non-inclusion of individuals with osteoarthritis in the tibiofemoral compartment concomitant to patellofemoral osteoarthritis, are needed to gain a better understanding of the clinical characteristics of patellofemoral osteoarthritis.

The patellofemoral compartment of the knee is the most frequently affected by osteoarthritis. However, there is a lack of biomechanics studies on patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA). This study’s purpose was to compare the frontal plane biomechanics of the trunk and lower limb during the single-leg squat and isometric hip abductor torque in individuals with isolated PFOA and controls. Frontal plane kinematics during the single-leg squat were evaluated using a three-dimensional (3-D) motion analysis system. Isometric hip abductor torque was determined using a handheld dynamometer. Twenty individuals participated in the study (10 with PFOA and 10 controls). No significant differences between groups were found regarding age (mean ± SD, PFOA group = 51.8 ± 6.9 versus control group = 47.8 ± 5.5; mean difference = 4, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -1.9 to 9.9, p = 0.20) or body mass index (PFOA group = 27.6 ± 2.2 versus control group = 25.5 ± 2.5; mean difference = 2.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.1 to 4.3, p = 0.06). Compared to control, the PFOA group presented greater hip adduction in the descending and ascending phases of the single-leg squat at 45° (mean difference [95% CI] = 6.44° [0.39–12.48°], p = 0.04; mean difference [95% CI] = 5.33° [0.24–10.42°], p = 0.045, respectively) and 60° (mean difference [95% CI] = 8.44° [2.15–14.73°], p = 0.01; mean difference [95% CI] = 7.58° [2.1–13.06°], p = 0.009, respectively) of knee flexion. No significant differences between groups were found for the frontal plane kinematics of the trunk, pelvis or knee (p > 0.05). The PFOA group exhibited lower isometric hip abductor torque (mean difference [95% CI] = -0.34 Nm/kg [-0.67 to -0.01 Nm/kg], p = 0.04). The individuals with PFOA presented greater hip adduction than the control group, which could increase lateral patellofemoral joint stress at 45° and 60° of knee flexion in the descending and ascending phases of the single-leg squat. These individuals also exhibited hip abductor weakness in comparison to healthy controls.

No studies have evaluated whether interventions used by Brazilian physiotherapists for the treatment of patellofemoral pain (PFP) are in line with the best existing scientific evidence.Identify the interventions most commonly used by Brazilian physiotherapists for the rehabilitation of PFP and determine whether characteristics of physiotherapists and knowledge regarding evidence-based practice (EBP) influence the choice of interventions.Cross-sectional web-based survey.Brazilian physiotherapists who treat patients with PFP participated in the study. Characteristics of the participants, information regarding EBP and interventions used in the treatment of PFP were collected through an online questionnaire. Descriptive analysis of the data was performed. Logistic regression analysis was employed to investigate associations between the interventions and both the characteristics of the physiotherapists and their knowledge regarding EBP.One hundred and ninety-four physiotherapists completed the questionnaire, 97.4% of whom reported using combined hip and quadriceps strengthening exercises, whereas only 25.3% reported using foot orthoses. A significant number of physiotherapists also reported using interventions that are not recommended (such as patellar mobilization, lumbar, hip and knee mobilization/manipulation and biophysical agents). Physiotherapists with a master's or doctoral degree and those who were aware of clinical practice guidelines were respectively 2.57-fold and 3.81-fold more likely to use recommended interventions.Most Brazilian physiotherapists choose interventions that are in line with current scientific evidence. However, a significant number also use interventions that are not recommended for the treatment of PFP.

Cheerleaders perform high-impact maneuvers that can be associated with pelvic floor dysfunction. We hypothesized that female cheerleaders would report more symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction and fewer symptoms of premenstrual syndrome than nonathletic women. This cross-sectional study included high-performance female cheerleaders and young nonathletic, nulliparous, and normal-weight females. Demographics, sports practices, and pelvic floor dysfunction data were collected through an electronic questionnaire. Urinary symptoms were collected through the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF) and King’s Health Questionnaire. Intestinal symptoms were collected through the use of Criterion F of item C3, referring to functional constipation of Rome III and Fecal Incontinence Severity Index. Data on sexual function were collected through the Female Sexual Function Index. Data on pelvic organ prolapse were obtained through the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Vaginal Symptoms (ICIQ-VS). In addition, questions about premenstrual syndrome—dysmenorrhea, irritability, headache, tiredness, fluid retention, and constipation—were collected through the Menstrual Symptom Questionnaire. The comparison between groups of the quantitative variables was performed using the Mann-Whitney U test. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated for comparison between groups on the occurrence of pelvic floor muscle dysfunction symptoms. A significance level of 5% was adopted. A total of 156 women (78 cheerleaders and 76 nonathletes) completed the electronic questionnaire. Anal incontinence was the most prevalent symptom of pelvic floor muscle dysfunction. Cheerleaders were 2.3 times more likely to report symptoms regarding anal incontinence than nonathletic women. For the other symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, no statistical differences between the groups were found. Cheerleaders reported fewer symptoms of tiredness and constipation during the premenstrual period than did nonathletic women. Pelvic floor dysfunction, particularly anal incontinence, appears to be more prevalent among cheerleaders than among nonathletic women. In addition, cheerleaders demonstrated fewer symptoms of tiredness and constipation during the premenstrual period.

Spine disorders are conditions that affect a growing number of individuals, and mobile health (mHealth) applications (apps) offer potential to assist the self-management of these conditions.To perform a systematic review of the availability of mHealth apps for patients with spine disorders at Brazilian online stores and evaluate the apps in terms of engagement, user interface, experience, and quality of the information.Systematic review.A search for spine disorders mHealth apps from the Google Play Store and AppStore in Brazil was performed by two independent reviewers on June 2021. Only smartphone apps in Brazilian Portuguese directed at spine disorders that provided information about education, counseling, exercise, or monitoring of patient health were included. The quality of eligible mHealth apps was assessed using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS).Of the 2775 mHealth apps found, 10 were eligible for inclusion. All apps offered exercise programs. Three apps also offered tools to track patient-reported symptoms, nutritional orientation, or educational content in addition to the exercise program. Using MARS, the apps scored poorly in terms of quality, with an overall mean score ±standard deviation of 2.75 ± 0.63 on a scale of 1-5 points. Most apps scored poorly for credibility, user interface, and engagement.The mHealth apps for spine disorders currently available in Brazil are of poor quality and limited functionality. Effective collaboration between industry and researchers is needed to develop better user-centered mHealth apps that can empower patients with these conditions.

Aims: The aims of this study were to compare the capacity of the knee and hip muscles between individuals with and without isolated patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA) and to evaluate the impact of PFOA on pain, stiffness, and physical function. Methods: This cross-sectional study evaluated muscle capacity of the hip and knee using an isokinetic dynamometer. The isokinetic variables used in the statistical analysis were peak torque, total work, and average power. Pain, stiffness, and physical function were assessed using questionnaires. Results: A total of 26 individuals participated in the study (13 with PFOA and 13 controls). The PFOA group exhibited lower peak torque, total work, and average power for knee extension and flexion in the concentric mode ( p ⩽ 0.01) as well as lower peak torque and total work for knee extension ( p ⩽ 0.005) and lower total work for knee flexion ( p = 0.05) in the eccentric mode. The PFOA group exhibited lower peak torque of the extensor, abductor, adductor, and internal rotator muscles of the hip ( p ⩽ 0.05), less total work of the abductor and adductor muscles ( p ⩽ 0.04), and lower average power of eccentric adduction of the hip ( p = 0.01) compared with the healthy controls. Compared with the control group, the PFOA group had a higher level of pain, stiffness, and compromised physical functioning self-reported ( p ⩽ 0.005). Conclusion: Participants with PFOA exhibited impairments regarding muscle capacity of the hip and knee, higher level of pain and stiffness as well as compromised physical functioning in comparison with healthy controls.

Compared to standard solutions, soft robotics presents enhanced adaptability to unpredictable and unstructured environments, encompassing advances in fabrication, modeling, and control. The absence of a general theory for the latter is one of the biggest challenges in the field, which constrains these robots’ employment in real-world applications. This research proposes the application of Scheduling by Multiple Edge Reversal (SMER) in the activation of soft legs to be applied in multi-legged robots. A soft device was developed to be tested as a robot’s leg to evaluate the proposed application. A logic controller for this device was designed using the SMER technique. Image processing techniques were used to assess the functionality of the proposed strategy, which demands limited resources. The vision tracking system is composed of a set of infrared-reflective patches, an infrared illuminator, and a pair of cameras with no infrared filters. Results revealed that it is possible to use SMER techniques to activate soft robotics systems and that the methods employed to develop and test the device were appropriate.

Background Urinary incontinence (UI) is a serious condition for which often times insufficient non-surgical treatment options are provided or sought. Mobile health (mHealth) applications (apps) offer potential to assist with the self-management of UI. Objective To perform a systematic review of available mHealth apps for UI in Brazil. Methods A search for UI mHealth apps from the Google Play Store and AppStore in Brazil was performed by two independent reviewers on June 4 2020, and the quality of eligible mHealth apps was assessed using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). Results Of the 1111 mHealth apps found, 12 were eligible for inclusion. Four offered exclusively exercise programs, six offered exercise and educational content, and two offered tools to track patient-reported symptoms. The included apps scored poorly on the MARS quality scale, with a mean ± standard deviation score of 2.7 ± 0.6 on a 0–5 scale. Most apps scored poorly based on credibility, user interface and experience, and engagement. Conclusion Although there is growing interest in the development of mHealth technologies to support patients with UI, currently available tools in Brazil are of poor quality and limited functionality. Effective collaboration between industry and research is needed to develop new user-centered mHealth apps that can empower patients with UI.

In this work, a painting suspected of counterfeiting was analyzed using the synchrotron-based scanning macro X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF) technique. The canvas has erasures including a signature erasure; however, some visible numbers indicate that the artwork may be from the 17th century. Through the studies' elemental maps, Cl-K and Ca-K were observed, which allowed us to reconstruct the signature present in the painting. Elemental maps of Ba-K, Ti-K, Fe-K, Zn-K, and Pb-K were also obtained from the painting, which made possible to visualize how the pigments based on these elements were used in the creative composition of the painting. In addition to the signature region, a region of the painting with dimensions of approximately 120 mm × 120 mm was investigated by synchrotron radiation induced MA-XRF, while keeping a high spatial resolution and elemental sensitivity. The measurements were carried out at the D09B micro-XRF beamline of the Brazilian Synchrotron Light Laboratory (LNLS), part of the Brazilian Center of Research in Energy and Materials, in Campinas Brazil. The painting was also investigated by SEM-EDS, and FTIR techniques. Those results, in addition to the supporting elemental maps, allowed additional information to be obtained, such as the binders used on the painting.

In this paper, a European black Japanned piece of furniture (dated to approximately 1860) was analyzed by XRF, Raman spectroscopy and FT-IR techniques. The analyses detected pigments such as vermilion/cinnabar [HgS], Massicot [PbO], lamp black [C] and green earth [K[(Al,FeIII),(FeII,Mg)](AlSi3,Si4)O10(OH)2], which were possibly dissolved in gum arabic. The analyses also determined that the metallic ornaments consist of a brass alloy with traces of gold and that gold was also used in some golden regions of the polychrome. The results obtained assisted restorers in choosing suitable intervening procedures and contributed to a better understanding of the cupboard manufacturing process.

Martinez, AF, Lessi, GC, Carvalho, C, and Serrao, FV. Association of hip and trunk strength with three-dimensional trunk, hip, and knee kinematics during a single-leg drop vertical jump. J Strength Cond Res 32(7): 1902-1908, 2018-Kinematic changes have been correlated with different lower-limb injuries. Movement is influenced by multiple factors and strength is one of the contributors that can influence it. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation among trunk and hip isometric strength with trunk and lower-limb kinematics during a single-leg drop vertical jump. Twenty-three healthy recreational female athletes aged between 18 and 35 years underwent isometric evaluation of hip abductor, hip extensor, and lateral trunk muscle strength and 3-dimensional trunk and lower-limb kinematics during a single-leg drop vertical jump. Pearson's correlation coefficients (r) were calculated to establish the association among hip and trunk strength and trunk, hip, and knee kinematics. As result, no significant correlations were found between the peak and movement excursion values of kinematic and hip and trunk isometric strength data. The lack of correlation between isometric strength and kinematics in healthy female athletes indicates that intervention programs should not be focused solely on strength exercises to influence the movement pattern during single-landing activities.

Objectives: To investigate the effect of aerobic exercise (AE) on functional capacity and quality of life in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) in the mild to moderate stages. Data Sources: Medline, Embase, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, Lilacs and PEDro were searched from inception until January 2021 using the MeSH terms. Study Selection: Studies conducted in individuals with PD involving AE compared to a control group were included. Data extraction: Characteristics of the studies were independently extracted by two reviewers. The PEDro scale was used to assess the methodological quality, and the level of evidence was analyzed and synthesized using the GRADE approach. Data Synthesis: Of the ten studies, 411 individuals with PD were included. The level of synthesized evidence for cardiorespiratory function was low and without effect, and very low and without effect. For gait was very low and with effect for speed and stride length and without effect for cadence. For mobility was very low and with effect. For muscle strength was very low and with effect for the lower limbs as well as without effect for the upper limbs. For postural balance was very low and without effect. For quality of life was low and without effect. Conclusion: Aerobic exercise was capable of promoting improvements in gait (walking speed and stride length), mobility, and lower limb muscle strength in individuals with PD in the mild to moderate stages. No significant improvement in quality of life was found due to the practice of AE.

The absence of a general theory of how to control soft structures is the biggest challenge in soft robotics. In this work the application of Scheduling by Multiple Edge Reversal (SMER) as an artificial Central Pattern Generator (CPG) is proposed for the activation of soft quadrupedal robots. In order to evaluate the proposed application, a soft device was developed for the purpose of being tested as a robot's paw, and SMER technique was applied in order to create a logic controller for this device. Image processing techniques were used to evaluate the functionality of the proposed strategy, with help of an experimental apparatus consisting on infrared markers, an infrared light, and a camera. Test results showed that it is completely possible to use SMER techniques to activate soft robotics systems; also the test revealed that the techniques employed to develop and test the device were appropriate and limited resources were needed.

Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior - CAPES On a catchment scale, beyond land use and soil management, unpaved rural roads take an important role on controlling erosive processes on hillslopes and drainage network, processes which are amplified by its inadequate allocation and management. The solutions for runoff managing in unpaved rural roads focus mainly on its storage in detention and retention pounds and/or conduction to infiltration terraces. However, few studies address conditions of shallow and steep soils, which hinder the storage of surface runoff, in addition to choosing the best route to runoff regulation. To this end, the techniques of monitoring and modelling erosive and hydrological processes on a catchment scale is used as one of the strategies for choosing the most effective and least costly conservationist practices, optimizing management’s financial resources. Runoff and sediment yield reflect changes in land use, as well soil and water management practices, including the unpaved roads. Given this, the aim of this study is to comprehend the impact of conservationist practices on unpaved roads and its effect on the hydrological and erosive dynamic on the scale of a small order catchment. For this purpose, a study took place on the experimental catchment of stream Lajeado Ferreira in Arvorezinha – RS, combining monitoring and mathematical modeling techniques. We calibrated LISEM (Limburg Soil Erosion Model) model with eight rainfall events with water discharge and suspended sediment concentration data from the years 2014 to 2017. From that, three conservationist scenarios were created: low (BI), medium (MI) and high (AI) intervention. BI represents more cost-efficient practices comprehending dry creek bed and diversion weirs along the roads. On MI, besides the pervious practices, there are spillways grass for channel road protection to conduct the runoff until the stream. On AI were added grass strips on cropfields that contribute with runoff to roads in addition to the MI practices. The runoff reduced 17% on BI to 307% on AI. Peak flow varied from +0,9% on BI to -320,3% on AI. Sediment yield varied from +9,4% on BI scenarios to -847,8% on AI. Results obtained from the scenarios show that, through monitoring and modeling, it is possible to investigate the hydrological and erosive behavior of roads on a catchment scale and that monitoring combined to modeling allowed evaluating the scenario’s efficiency. Na escala de bacia hidrográfica, além do uso e do manejo do solo, as estradas rurais assumem papel de destaque no controle dos processos erosivos nas encostas e na rede de drenagem, os quais são amplificados pela alocação e manejo inadequados das estradas rurais. As soluções para o controle do escoamento em estradas rurais têm foco principal no seu armazenamento em bacias de detenção e retenção e/ou condução para terraços de infiltração. Porém poucos trabalhos abordam condições com solos rasos e declivosos, as quais dificultam o armazenamento do escoamento superficial, além da escolha das melhores rotas para o disciplinamento do escoamento. Para essa finalidade, técnicas de monitoramento e de modelagem dos processos hidrológicos e erosivos na escala de bacia hidrográfica podem ser utilizadas como uma das estratégias para a escolha das práticas conservacionistas mais eficazes e menos onerosas, otimizando os recursos financeiros da gestão. Uma vez que, a vazão e a produção de sedimentos refletem as alterações no uso do solo, bem como nas práticas de manejo do solo e da água, incluindo as estradas. O objetivo do estudo é compreender a influência das práticas conservacionistas nas estradas não pavimentadas e seu efeito na dinâmica hidrológica e erosiva na escala de bacia hidrográfica rural de pequena ordem. Para tanto, foi realizado um estudo na bacia experimental do Arroio Lajeado Ferreira em Arvorezinha – RS combinando as técnicas de monitoramento e modelagem matemática. O modelo LISEM (Limburg Soil Erosion Model) foi calibrado com oito eventos de chuva com dados de vazão e produção de sedimentos provenientes nos anos de 2014 a 2017. Com base nisto, foram criados três cenários conservacionistas para as estradas: baixa (BI), média (MI) e alta (AI) intervenção. O BI foi baseado em práticas conservacionistas mais econômicas envolvendo enrrocamento e vertedores defletores ao longo das estradas. O MI, além das práticas anteriores, envolveu a proteção vegetal da sarjeta das estradas e canais escoadouros para a condução do excesso de escoamento até a rede de drenagem e faixas de retenção. Na AI, além das práticas anteriores, foi incorporada cordões vegetais nas áreas de lavoura que contribuem com escoamento para as estradas. O volume de escoamento superficial teve uma redução de 17% na BI, 307% na AI. A vazão máxima variou de +0,9% no cenário de BI a -320,3% no AI. A produção de sedimento variou de +9,4% nos cenários de BI a -847,8% no de AI. Os resultados obtidos demonstraram a contribuição do monitoramento e da modelagem na análise do comportamento hidrológico e erosivo das estradas em escala de bacia, possibilitando avaliar a eficiência dos respectivos cenários.

Objective Investigate the effects of complementary therapies on functional capacity and quality of life among prefrail and frail older adults. Materials and Method An electronic search was performed in the PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, LILACS and PEDro databases for relevant articles published up to September 2019. Only randomized controlled trials with interventions involving complementary therapies for prefrail and frail older adults were included. This review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and the Cochrane recommendations. The methodological quality of the selected studies was appraised using the PEDro scale and the evidence was synthesized using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) scale. Results Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria and were selected for the present review. Six different complementary therapies were identified and the main findings were related to Tai Chi. A very low to moderate level of evidence was found regarding the effectiveness of Tai Chi in terms a functional capacity (balance, mobility, gait speed, functional reach and lower limb muscle strength) and a low level of evidence was found regarding its effect on quality of life. To the other complementary therapies it was not possible to synthetize evidence level. Conclusion Tai chi may be used as an important resource to improve functional capacity and quality of life among prefrail and frail older adults.

Background:Previous studies have observed that individuals with patellofemoral pain (PFP) have decreased hip abduction torque, as well as increased hip adduction and knee abduction during activities with uniltateral weight bearing1,2. Considering that, a significant number of patients with patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA) have a previous history of PFP3, it is speculated that the mechanical causes of PFP and PFOA may be similar. However, although alterations in hip muscle strength and lower limb kinematics during various functional activities have been reported in patients with PFP, they have not been explored in subjects with PFOA.Objectives:The objectives of this study were to compare the hip eccentric abductors torque and the trunk, pelvis, hip, and knee frontal plane kinematics in subjects with and without PFOA isolated during the single-leg squat.Methods:This is a cross-sectional study. The volunteers were divided into two groups: control group (CG - healthy individuals) and PFOA group (PFOAG - individuals with PFOA grade II or III). Eccentric peak torque of the hip abductors was evaluated using an isokinetic dynamometer Biodex Multi-Joint System 3, at angular speed of 30°/s. Trunk, pelvis, hip and knee kinematics were recorded during the single-leg squat using a 6-camera, 3-dimensional motion-analysis system (Vicon Motion Systems, Nexus System 2.1.1 and 3D Motion Monitor). The t-test Student was used to compare the variables between the groups. The significance level was set at 5% for all analyses (p ≤ 0.05).Results:The CG was composed by 12 participants (41.7% women). PFOA had 9 participants (44.4% women). Age (p = 0.1), height (p = 0.9) and body mass (p = 0.2) showed homogeneity between groups. Regardind body mass index, the OAPFG showed higher values (p = 0.02). PFOAG showed greater increased hip adduction than CG (p = 0.05) (Table 1). However, there were no differences among groups for trunk lean, contralateral pelvic elevation and knee abduction (p > 0.05). PFOAG showed lower hip abductor torque compared with the CG (p = 0.006).Table 1– Values of joint angles during single-leg squatting and hip abductors torque (normalized by body mass) in PFOA and healthy individualsPFOAGCGpvalueContralateral trunk lean (°)4.7±1.34.8±1.10.94Contralateral pelvic elevation (°)1.4±1.22.6±1.00.45Hip adduction (°)14.9±2.28.9±1.60.05*Knee abduction (°)22.8±3.819.4±3.30.51Hip eccentric abdutor torque (Nm/kg·100)166.5±24.9204±27.70.006*PFOAG: patellofemoral osteoarthritis group; CG: control group *Statistical difference between groupsConclusion:PFOA individuals showed greater hip adduction and lower hip abductors torque than the CG. Thus, it is suggested that muscle weakness may excessively influence hip adduction. Hip adduction is the main component of the knee valgus in the frontal plane. So, excessive dynamic valgus results in an increase Q-angle and, consequently, an increase in the lateral forces acting on the patella, causing greater stress on the lateral patellofemoral joint, which may contribute to disease progression. Therefore, we suggest that the hip abductor strengthening should be considered when treating individuals with PFOA.References:[1]Nakagawa TH, Moriya ÉTU, Maciel CD, Serrão FV. Trunk, Pelvis, Hip, and Knee Kinematics, Hip Strength, and Gluteal Muscle Activation During a Single-Leg Squat in Males and Females With and Without Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome.J Orthop Sport Phys Ther. 2012;42(6):491-501.[2]Nakagawa TH, Moriya ÉTU, Maciel CD, Serrão FV. Frontal Plane Biomechanics in Males and Females with and without Patellofemoral Pain.Med Sci Sport Exerc. 2012;44(9):1747-1755.[3]Utting MR, Davies G, Newman JH. Is anterior knee pain a predisposing factor to patellofemoral osteoarthritis?Knee. 2005;12(5):362-365.Acknowledgments:São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP) (Grant/Award Numbers: 2017/20057-8; 2017/25959-0; 2018/10329-3).Disclosure of Interests:None declared