Evidence for a spinal stepping generator in man. Electrophysiological study

We present some evidence favouring the presence of a spinal stepping generator in humans. Electrophysiological studies have shown that the spinal cord even deprived of supraspinal influence can generate rhythmic activity, and that some elements of the spinal circuitry on which the generation of stepping rhythmic relies in lower vertebrates exist in man. Moreover, comparison of the variations of the polysynaptic spinal flexor reflex in normal subjects and paraplegic patients brought about some evidence that normal subjects use a spinal locomotor center. Nevertheless, these studies do not absolutely prove the existence of a central pattern generator in man.     

Prevention of AIDS: experience with adolescents from a state elementary school in Porto Allegre

This article refers to a participating experience in AIDS prevention with teenagers from 5th to 8th grade of a state elementary school, through workshops. This working method uses participating technics to allow relaxation, discussion and theme reflection by the group. The results obtained with this work of information and health education indicate the possibility of stimulating preventive acting development through reflection on the health-disease process, which involves HIV virus infection and comprehension of the disease extension and gravity for public health.