Resumo O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar índices de competição dependentes da distância e definir um raio de influência competitiva entre árvores em um fragmento de Mata Atlântica sob recuperação florestal. A área em estudo possui 2,53ha, na qual foi realizado o inventário com intensidade amostral de 15,81%. Avaliaram-se três índices de competição e vinte distâncias para o raio de competição (1, 2, 3... e 20 m). O índice IC3, que relaciona o DAP de árvores competidoras com a aquele da árvore objetivo multiplicado pela distância entre as mesmas somado a uma unidade, se mostrou o mais adequado para representar a competição. Esse índice se correlacionou mais fortemente com os atributos biométricos, apresentou fundamentação biológica e a menor variabilidade com o aumento do raio de competição. Os índices de competição e suas respectivas variabilidades tenderam à estabilização a partir do raio de competição de, aproximadamente, 6 m. Conclui-se que o índice IC3 e o raio de competição de 6m são indicados para análises sobre relações entre a competitividade e aspectos biométricos no local de estudo.

Abstract This research aimed to evaluate distance-dependent competition indices and defining a radius of competitive influence among trees in an Atlantic Forest fragment under forest recovery. The study area has 2.53 ha, in which the inventory was carried out with a sampling intensity of 15.81%. Three competition indices and twenty distances for the competition radius (1, 2, 3... and 20 m) were evaluated. IC3 index, which relates the DBH of competing trees with the target tree multiplied by the distance between them plus one unit, proved to be the most adequate to represent competition. This index was strongly correlated with biometric attributes, having biological support and the lowest variability when increasing the competition radius. Competition indices and their respective variability tended to stabilize from the competition radius at approximately 6 m. It is concluded that IC3 index and 6 m competition radius are suitable when analyzing the relationship between competitiveness and biometric attributes at the study site.

Abstract Introduction Acquired tracheomalacia (ATM) is characterized by a loss of structural strength of the tracheal framework, resulting in airway collapse during breathing. Near half of the patients undergoing prolonged invasive mechanical ventilation will suffer tracheal lesions. Treatment for ATM includes external splinting with rib grafts, prosthetic materials, and tracheal resection. Failure in the use of prosthetic materials has made reconsidering natural origin scaffolds and tissue engineering as a suitable alternative. Objective To restore adequate airway patency in an ovine model with surgicallyinduced ATM employing a tissue-engineered extraluminal tracheal splint (TE-ETS). Methods In the present prospective pilot study, tracheal rings were partially resected to induce airway collapse in 16 Suffolk sheep (Ovis aries). The TE-ETS was developed with autologous mesenchymal-derived chondrocytes and allogenic decellularized tracheal segments and was implanted above debilitated tracheal rings. The animals were followed-up at 8, 12, and 16 weeks and at 1-year postinsertion. Flexible tracheoscopies were performed at each stage. After sacrifice, a histopathological study of the trachea and the splint were performed. Results The TE-ETS prevented airway collapse for 16 weeks and up to 1-year postinsertion. Tracheoscopies revealed a noncollapsing airway during inspiration. Histopathological analyses showed the organization of mesenchymal-derived chondrocytes in lacunae, the proliferation of blood vessels, and recovery of epithelial tissue subjacent to the splint. Splints without autologous cells did not prevent airway collapse. Conclusion It is possible to treat acquired tracheomalacia with TE-ETS without further surgical removal since it undergoes physiological degradation. The present study supports the development of tissue-engineered tracheal substitutes for airway disease.

Abstract Background Levodopa is the most used and effective medication for motor symptoms of Parkinson disease (PD), its long-term use is associated with the appearance of levodopa-induced dyskinesia (LID). Uric acid (UA) is believed to play an important neuroprotective role in PD. Objective To investigate if serum UA levels are related with the presence of LIDs in PD patients. Also, we investigated the associations among UA levels and clinical features of PD. Methods We enrolled 81 PD patients (dyskinesia = 48; no dyskinesia = 33) in the present study. A blood sample was collected to evaluate serum UA levels, clinical evaluation included the following instruments: Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II), MDS-Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS), Hoehn and Yahr (HY), and the sub-item 4.1 of MDS-UPDRS IV (score ≥ 1). Additional relevant clinical information was obtained by a clinical questionnaire. Results Serum UA levels were lower in the dyskinesia group when compared with the no dyskinesia group. The same result was found in the UA levels of both men and women. The multivariate analysis showed lower uric acid levels were significantly associated with having dyskinesia (odds ratio [OR] = 0.424; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.221-0.746; p= 0.005). Additional analysis verified that serum UA levels are inversely correlated with depressive symptoms, disease duration, MDS-UPDRS IV and time spent with dyskinesia. A positive correlation was found with age at onset of PD symptoms. Conclusions The present study provides a possible role of serum UA levels in LID present in PD patients.

Resumo Antecedentes A levodopa é a medicação mais utilizada e eficaz para os sintomas motores da doença de Parkinson (DP); seu uso a longo prazo está associado ao aparecimento de discinesia induzida por levodopa (LID). Acredita-se que o ácido úrico desempenhe um importante papel neuroprotetor na DP. Objetivo Investigar se os níveis séricos de AU estão relacionados com a presença de LID em pacientes com DP. Além disso, investigamos as associações entre os níveis de AU e as características clínicas da DP. Métodos Foram incluídos 81 pacientes com DP (discinesia = 48; sem discinesia = 33) no presente estudo. Uma amostra de sangue foi coletada para avaliar os níveis séricos de AU, a avaliação clínica incluiu os seguintes instrumentos: Avaliação Cognitiva de Montreal (MoCA), Inventário de Depressão de Beck (BDI-II), MDS-Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS), Hoehn and Yahr (HY) e o subitem 4.1 da MDS-UPDRS IV (escore ≥ 1). Informações clínicas relevantes adicionais foram obtidas por meio de um questionário clínico. Resultados Os níveis séricos de AU foram menores no grupo com discinesia quando comparados ao grupo sem discinesia. O mesmo resultado foi encontrado nos níveis de AU de homens e mulheres. A análise multivariada mostrou que níveis mais baixos de ácido úrico foram significativamente associados a ter discinesia (odds ratio [OR] = 0,424; intervalo de confiança (IC) de 95%: 0,221-0,746; p= 0,005). Análises adicionais verificaram que os níveis séricos de AU estão inversamente correlacionados com sintomas depressivos, duração da doença, MDS-UPDRS IV e tempo gasto com discinesia. Uma correlação positiva foi encontrada com a idade de início dos sintomas da DP. Conclusões O presente estudo fornece um possível papel dos níveis séricos de AU na LID presente em pacientes com DP.

Resumo O tétano é uma doença grave e rara em pequenos animais, de caráter agudo e mediada pela ação da neurotoxina tetanospasmina, proveniente do bacilo Clostridium tetani. Neste relato descreve-se um caso de tétano em um canino, com ênfase em seus aspectos clínicos e terapêuticos, além da sua recuperação clínica. Foi atendido no Hospital Veterinário da Universidade de Passo Fundo, um canino, fêmea, da raça Pitbull, com cinco meses, em status epilepticus. Após a estabilização da paciente, constataram-se animal em posição de cavalete, com paralisia espástica generalizada, risus sardonicus, trismo, cauda e orelhas eretas e dificuldade em expandir o tórax. O diagnóstico presuntivo de tétano foi firmado a partir da anamnese, sinais clínicos e achados laboratoriais. O tratamento suporte estabelecido incluiu reposição hidroeletrolítica, soro antitetânico, antibioticoterapia, analgesia, fármacos miorrelaxantes e anticonvulsivantes. O manejo intensivo da paciente foi realizado com sondagem uretral e nasoesofágica, trocas de decúbito a cada duas horas e diminuição de estímulos ambientais. A fisioterapia e a acupuntura também foram utilizadas para complementar o tratamento e acelerar a recuperação. A paciente recebeu alta médica um mês após o início do tratamento, apresentando evolução satisfatória. No presente caso, o exame clínico em associação aos sinais clínicos característicos da doença, acrescidos da anamnese minuciosa foram fundamentais ao diagnóstico presuntivo de tétano. Além disso, o manejo intensivo, o tratamento medicamentoso, assim como a realização de fisioterapia e acupuntura, possibilitaram a evolução do quadro clínico à cura.

Abstract Tetanus is a serious and rare disease in small animals, of an acute nature and mediated by the action of the neurotoxin tetanospasmin, from the bacillus Clostridium tetani. This report describes a case of tetanus in a canine, with emphasis on its clinical and therapeutic aspects, in addition to its clinical recovery. A canine, female, Pitbull breed, five months old, in status epilepticus, was attended at the Veterinary Hospital of the University of Passo Fundo. After stabilizing the patient, the animal was found in a trestle position, with generalized spastic paralysis, risus sardonicus, trismus, erect tail and ears, and difficulty in expanding the thorax. The presumptive diagnosis of tetanus was established based on the anamnesis, clinical signs, and laboratory findings. The established supportive treatment included hydro electrolytic replacement, antitetanus serum, antibiotic therapy, analgesia, myorelaxant and anticonvulsant drugs. The patient's intensive management was carried out with urethral and gastroesophageal probing, changes of position every two hours, and reduction of environmental stimuli. Physiotherapy and acupuncture were also used to complement the treatment and accelerate recovery. The patient was discharged one month after the beginning of the treatment, presenting satisfactory evolution. In the present case, the clinical examination in association with the characteristic clinical signs of the disease, added to the detailed anamnesis, was essential for the presumptive diagnosis of tetanus. In addition, intensive management, drug treatment, physiotherapy, and acupuncture enabled the evolution of the clinical condition to cure.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever os resultados iniciais da linha de base de um estudo de base populacional, bem como um protocolo para avaliar o desempenho de diferentes algoritmos de aprendizado de máquina, com o objetivo de predizer a demanda de serviços de urgência e emergência em uma amostra representativa de adultos da zona urbana de Pelotas, no Sul do Brasil. Métodos: O estudo intitula-se “Emergency department use and Artificial Intelligence in PELOTAS (RS) (EAI PELOTAS)” (https://wp.ufpel.edu.br/eaipelotas/). Entre setembro e dezembro de 2021, foi realizada uma linha de base com os participantes. Está previsto um acompanhamento após 12 meses para avaliar a utilização de serviços de urgência e emergência no último ano. Em seguida, serão testados algoritmos de machine learning para predizer a utilização de serviços de urgência e emergência no período de um ano. Resultados: No total, 5.722 participantes responderam à pesquisa, a maioria do sexo feminino (66,8%), com idade média de 50,3 anos. O número médio de pessoas no domicílio foi de 2,6. A maioria da amostra tem cor da pele branca e ensino fundamental incompleto ou menos. Cerca de 30% da amostra estava com obesidade, 14% com diabetes e 39% eram hipertensos. Conclusão: O presente trabalho apresentou um protocolo descrevendo as etapas que foram e serão tomadas para a produção de um modelo capaz de prever a demanda por serviços de urgência e emergência em um ano entre moradores de Pelotas, no estado do Rio Grande do Sul.

RESUMO Objetivo: To describe the initial baseline results of a population-based study, as well as a protocol in order to evaluate the performance of different machine learning algorithms with the objective of predicting the demand for urgent and emergency services in a representative sample of adults from the urban area of Pelotas, Southern Brazil. Methods: The study is entitled “Emergency department use and Artificial Intelligence in PELOTAS (RS) (EAI PELOTAS)” (https://wp.ufpel.edu.br/eaipelotas/). Between September and December 2021, a baseline was carried out with participants. A follow-up was planned to be conducted after 12 months in order to assess the use of urgent and emergency services in the last year. Afterwards, machine learning algorithms will be tested to predict the use of urgent and emergency services over one year. Results: In total, 5,722 participants answered the survey, mostly females (66.8%), with an average age of 50.3 years. The mean number of household people was 2.6. Most of the sample has white skin color and incomplete elementary school or less. Around 30% of the sample has obesity, 14% diabetes, and 39% hypertension. Conclusion: The present paper presented a protocol describing the steps that were and will be taken to produce a model capable of predicting the demand for urgent and emergency services in one year among residents of Pelotas, in Rio Grande do Sul state.

Abstract In the core of the Atlantic Forest biome, the Serra da Bocaina National Park (SBNP) is located in the Atlantic Forest Southeast area of endemism for vertebrates. Filling gaps in knowledge about the spatial distribution and occurrence of species in national parks is of fundamental importance to know how many species are protected and to guide conservation initiatives. Here we updated the non-volant small mammal species list of the SBNP, providing new data on species list and abundance, with species identified mainly by karyotype and/or molecular analysis. Twelve sampling sessions with a capture-mark-recapture approach were carried out in four sites in the SBNP from 2013 to 2016, during the paving works of the state highway RJ-165 (Estrada Parque Paraty-Cunha), municipality of Paraty, state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Non-volant small mammals (Rodentia and Didelphimorphia) were sampled using Sherman® and Tomahawk® live traps (18,987 trap-nights) and pitfall traps (4,591 trap-nights). Thirty-two species (11 marsupials and 21 rodents) were recorded from 1,185 captured specimens. Species richness ranged from 18 to 28 between sites. Ten and 11 species were exclusively captured in live traps and pitfall traps, respectively. The observed richness (32 species) represented 91.4% of the estimated species richness for the study area. Sites 2 and 4 were the most similar to each other regarding species composition, and site 3 was the most dissimilar. The species with highest relative abundance were Euryoryzomys russatus (14%) and Delomys dorsalis (14%), while six species had relative abundances lower than 1%. Fourteen and 17 species were identified by karyotype and molecular analysis, respectively. The present study added 22 species to the park’s non-volant small mammals list, which now has 37 species with confirmed occurrence. This species richness found in the SBNP is one of the highest ever recorded for the group of non-volant small mammals in protected areas of the Atlantic Forest in Brazil, corroborating the Serra da Bocaina region as a biodiversity hotspot.

Resumen No cerne do bioma Mata Atlântica, o Parque Nacional da Serra da Bocaina (PNSB) está localizado na área Sudeste de endemismo para vertebrados na Mata Atlântica. Preencher lacunas de conhecimento sobre a distribuição espacial e ocorrência das espécies em parques nacionais é de fundamental importância para saber quantas espécies estão protegidas e orientar iniciativas de conservação. Aqui atualizamos a lista de espécies de pequenos mamíferos não-voadores do PNSB, fornecendo novos dados sobre a lista de espécies e abundância, com espécies identificadas principalmente por análises cariotípicas e/ou molecular. Doze sessões de amostragem com uma abordagem de captura-marcação-recaptura foram realizadas em quatro áreas no PNSB de 2013 a 2016, durante as obras de pavimentação da rodovia estadual RJ-165 (Estrada Parque Paraty-Cunha), município de Paraty, estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Os pequenos mamíferos não-voadores (Rodentia e Didelphimorphia) foram amostrados usando armadilhas de captura viva Sherman® e Tomahawk® (18.987 armadilhas-noite) e armadilhas de queda (4.591 armadilhas-noite). Trinta e duas espécies (11 marsupiais e 21 roedores) foram registradas em 1.185 espécimes capturados. A riqueza de espécies variou de 18 a 28 entre as áreas de amostragem. Dez e 11 espécies foram capturadas exclusivamente em armadilhas de captura viva e armadilhas de queda, respectivamente. A riqueza observada (32 espécies) representou 91,4% da riqueza de espécies estimada para a área de estudo. As áreas 2 e 4 foram as mais semelhantes entre si quanto à composição de espécies, e a área 3 foi a mais dissimilar. As espécies com maior abundância relativa foram Euryoryzomys russatus (14%) e Delomys dorsalis (14%), enquanto seis espécies tiveram abundâncias relativas inferiores a 1%. Quatorze e 17 espécies foram identificadas pelo cariótipo e por análise molecular, respectivamente. O presente estudo acrescentou 22 espécies à lista de pequenos mamíferos não-voadores do parque, que passou a contar com 37 espécies com ocorrência confirmada. Essa riqueza de espécies encontrada no PNSB é uma das maiores já registradas para o grupo dos pequenos mamíferos não-voadores em áreas protegidas da Mata Atlântica no Brasil, corroborando a região da Serra da Bocaina como um hotspot de biodiversidade.

Abstract The TP53 3’UTR variant rs78378222 A>C has been detected in different tumor types as a somatic alteration that reduces p53 expression through modification of polyadenylation and miRNA regulation. Its prevalence is not yet known in all tumors. Herein, we examine tumor tissue prevalence of rs7837822 in Brazilian cohorts of patients from south and southeast regions diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD, n=586), sarcoma (SARC, n=188) and uterine leiomyoma (ULM, n=41). The minor allele (C) was identified in heterozygosity in 6/586 LUAD tumors (prevalence = 1.02 %) and none of the SARC and ULM samples. Additionally, next generation sequencing analysis revealed that all variant-positive tumors (n=4) with sample availability had additional pathogenic or likely pathogenic somatic variants in the TP53 coding regions. Among them, 3/4 (75 %) had the same pathogenic or likely pathogenic sequence variant (allele frequency <0.05 in tumor DNA) namely c.751A>C (p.Ile251Leu). Our results indicate a low somatic prevalence of rs78378222 in LUAD, ULM and SARC tumors from Brazilian patients, which suggests that no further analysis of this variant in the specific studied regions of Brazil is warranted. However, these findings should not exclude tumor molecular testing of this TP53 3’UTR functional variant for different populations.

RESUMO Objetivo: To describe the initial baseline results of a population-based study, as well as a protocol in order to evaluate the performance of different machine learning algorithms with the objective of predicting the demand for urgent and emergency services in a representative sample of adults from the urban area of Pelotas, Southern Brazil. Methods: The study is entitled “Emergency department use and Artificial Intelligence in PELOTAS (RS) (EAI PELOTAS)” (https://wp.ufpel.edu.br/eaipelotas/). Between September and December 2021, a baseline was carried out with participants. A follow-up was planned to be conducted after 12 months in order to assess the use of urgent and emergency services in the last year. Afterwards, machine learning algorithms will be tested to predict the use of urgent and emergency services over one year. Results: In total, 5,722 participants answered the survey, mostly females (66.8%), with an average age of 50.3 years. The mean number of household people was 2.6. Most of the sample has white skin color and incomplete elementary school or less. Around 30% of the sample has obesity, 14% diabetes, and 39% hypertension. Conclusion: The present paper presented a protocol describing the steps that were and will be taken to produce a model capable of predicting the demand for urgent and emergency services in one year among residents of Pelotas, in Rio Grande do Sul state.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever os resultados iniciais da linha de base de um estudo de base populacional, bem como um protocolo para avaliar o desempenho de diferentes algoritmos de aprendizado de máquina, com o objetivo de predizer a demanda de serviços de urgência e emergência em uma amostra representativa de adultos da zona urbana de Pelotas, no Sul do Brasil. Métodos: O estudo intitula-se “Emergency department use and Artificial Intelligence in PELOTAS (RS) (EAI PELOTAS)” (https://wp.ufpel.edu.br/eaipelotas/). Entre setembro e dezembro de 2021, foi realizada uma linha de base com os participantes. Está previsto um acompanhamento após 12 meses para avaliar a utilização de serviços de urgência e emergência no último ano. Em seguida, serão testados algoritmos de machine learning para predizer a utilização de serviços de urgência e emergência no período de um ano. Resultados: No total, 5.722 participantes responderam à pesquisa, a maioria do sexo feminino (66,8%), com idade média de 50,3 anos. O número médio de pessoas no domicílio foi de 2,6. A maioria da amostra tem cor da pele branca e ensino fundamental incompleto ou menos. Cerca de 30% da amostra estava com obesidade, 14% com diabetes e 39% eram hipertensos. Conclusão: O presente trabalho apresentou um protocolo descrevendo as etapas que foram e serão tomadas para a produção de um modelo capaz de prever a demanda por serviços de urgência e emergência em um ano entre moradores de Pelotas, no estado do Rio Grande do Sul.

Abstract: In this article we propose to review once again the link between women and psychotropic drugs based on three qualitative investigations conducted in Uruguay from 2013 to 2019 that have addressed the prescription and consumption of benzodiazepine and antidepressant psychotropic drugs in Montevideo. We will attempt to answer what causes women to be identified as the typical patients in health services and why women direct there their experiences of psychic pain and assume the proposed psychopharmacological treatments. The results presented here show how, despite the visibility of this problem, roles, gender-related expectations and adverse socio-economic circumstances lead to the persistence of the naturalization of psychotropic drug use among women.

Resumen: En este artículo nos proponemos revisar una vez más el lazo entre mujeres y psicofármacos a partir de tres investigaciones cualitativas realizadas en Uruguay desde 2013 a 2019 que han abordado la prescripción y el consumo de psicofármacos benzodiacepínicos y antidepresivos en Montevideo. Intentaremos responder qué es lo que hace que las mujeres sean identificadas como las pacientes típicas en los servicios de salud y por qué las mujeres dirigen allí sus experiencias de dolor psíquico y asumen los tratamientos psicofarmacológicos propuestos. Los resultados que se presentan dan cuenta de cómo, a pesar de la visibilización de esta problemática, los roles, las expectativas ligadas al género y las circunstancias socioeconómicas adversas hacen que persista la naturalización del consumo de psicofármacos en mujeres.

Resumo: Neste artigo propomos rever mais uma vez a ligação entre as mulheres e os psicotrópicos com base em três estudos de pesquisa qualitativa realizados no Uruguai de 2013 a 2019 que abordaram a prescrição e o consumo de benzodiazepínicos e de drogas psicotrópicas antidepressivas em Montevidéu. Tentaremos responder o que faz com que as mulheres sejam identificadas como pacientes típicas nos serviços de saúde e por que as mulheres dirigem ali suas experiências de dor psíquica e assumem os tratamentos psicofarmacológicos propostos. Os resultados aqui apresentados mostram como, apesar da visibilidade deste problema, os papéis, as expectativas relacionadas ao gênero e as circunstâncias socioeconômicas adversas levam a que a naturalização do uso de drogas psicotrópicas pelas mulheres persista.

Abstract: Introduction: During the Covid-19 pandemic, most countries of the world decreed the closure of various sectors of society, including medical schools, which started to rely on virtual classes. CESUPA, therefore, adopted the remote tutoring strategy to continue the school semester. These changes brought to light the limitations of distance learning, which can be presented in different ways. Objective: To identify the impact on students’ perception of remote tutoring compared to face-to-face tutoring regarding their academic performance during the Covid-19 pandemic. Method: A cross-sectional, descriptive and observational study was conducted with 250 students through virtual questionnaires completed by students from the fourth to the eighth semester of the CESUPA Medicine course from February to December 2021. The results found were considered significant if the p-value was less than 0.05. Results: It can be noted that remote tutoring showed some disadvantages in relation to face-to-face tutoring, such as more difficulty in maintaining concentration, the feeling of being less prepared for the end of module test, more difficulty in resolving doubts, less dedication and less motivation during remote tutoring. Among the factors that can be characterized by the association with worse academic performance during remote tutoring compared to face-to-face tutoring are being aged up to 20 years, having no other additional training and being in the fourth or fifth semester of the course. Furthermore, it was noted that gender did not influence academic performance during remote tutoring. Conclusion: It was concluded that students reported a worse academic performance during remote tutoring when compared to face-to-face tutoring according to the perception of the participants.

Resumo: Introdução: Durante a pandemia da Covid-19, foi decretado, na maioria dos países do mundo, o fechamento de diversos setores da sociedade, inclusive das faculdades de Medicina, que passaram a ter aulas virtuais. Nesse sentido, o Cesupa adotou a estratégia de tutoria remota para dar continuidade ao semestre letivo. Tais mudanças trouxeram à tona as limitações do ensino remoto, que pode apresentar-se de distintas formas. Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo identificar o impacto, na percepção dos alunos, da tutoria remota em relação à presencial quanto ao seu desempenho acadêmico, durante a pandemia da Covid-19. Método: Realizou-se um estudo transversal, descritivo e observacional com 250 alunos mediante a aplicação de questionários virtuais respondidos por discentes do quarto ao oitavo semestre do curso de Medicina do Cesupa, durante o período de fevereiro a dezembro de 2021. Os resultados encontrados foram considerados significativos se valor-p menor que 0,05. Resultado: Na pesquisa, notou-se que a tutoria remota demonstrou algumas desvantagens em relação à tutoria presencial, como maior dificuldade do aluno em se concentrar, sensação de estar menos preparado para a prova do módulo, maior dificuldade em sanar dúvidas, menor dedicação e menor motivação durante a tutoria remota. Entre os fatores que podem ser caracterizados pela associação a um pior desempenho acadêmico durante a tutoria remota comparando com a presencial, estão idade de até 20 anos, não ter outra formação complementar e estar no quarto ou quinto semestre do curso. Além disso, notou-se que o gênero não influenciou no desempenho acadêmico durante a tutoria remota. Conclusão: Diante disso, percebeu-se que os estudantes tiveram um pior desempenho acadêmico durante a tutoria remota quando comparada com a tutoria presencial, de acordo com a percepção dos participantes.

Abstract To compare the sensitivity of conjunctival swab (CS) and conventional samples (blood, spleen, liver, lymphoid and cutaneous tissue) in the diagnosis of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), a systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out using PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, VHL/BVS (Virtual Health Library), CAPES, and Scielo databases. Articles published from 2002 to 2022 were considered and the review was updated in Jul 2023. From the total of 371 identified studies, 8 met all the eligibility criteria and were included in this review. Data from 658 CVL-positive dogs and 2541 PCR results were considered. Using a random effect model, data on the sensitivity of the test was compared between intervention (CS samples) and comparison (all the other samples) groups. Overall, the use of CS in the PCR diagnosis of CVL produced 12% higher sensitivity (p=0.013) in the test than all the other samples in combination. The animals' clinical condition did not influence (p>0.142) this overall result. However, when CS was individually compared to each of the conventional samples, the consistent result was observed (p=0.012) only in the CS versus bone marrow comparison. Given their rapid acquisition, minimal invasiveness, and lower cost relative to conventional samples, CS samples present a promising alternative for the molecular diagnosis of CVL.

Resumo Para comparar a sensibilidade do swab conjuntival (SC) e amostras convencionais (sangue, baço, fígado, tecido linfoide e cutâneo) no diagnóstico da leishmaniose visceral canina (LVC), pela reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR), uma revisão sistemática e metanálise foi realizada nas bases de dados PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, BVS (Biblioteca virtual da saúde), CAPES e Scielo. Artigos publicados entre 2002 e 2022 e a revisão foi atualizada em julho de 2023. Do total de 371 estudos identificados, 8 preencheram todos os critérios de elegibilidade e foram incluídos nesta revisão. Dados de 658 cães LVC-positivos e 2.541 resultados de PCR foram considerados. Usando-se um modelo de efeito aleatório, os dados sobre a sensibilidade do teste foram comparados entre os grupos de intervenção (amostras de SC) e de comparação (todas as outras amostras). No geral, o uso de SC no diagnóstico por PCR de LVC produziu sensibilidade 12% maior (p=0,013) no teste do que todas as outras amostras combinadas. A condição clínica dos animais não influenciou (p>0,142) neste resultado global. Porém, quando o SC foi comparado individualmente com cada uma das amostras convencionais, o resultado consistente foi observado (p=0,012) apenas na comparação do SC versus medula óssea. Dada a sua rápida aquisição, invasividade mínima e menor custo em relação às amostras convencionais, as amostras de SC apresentam uma alternativa promissora para o diagnóstico molecular da LVC.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Nocardiosis is a rare bacterial infection caused by Nocardia spp. However, an increasing incidence has been described whereby data about epidemiology and prognosis are essential. Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted among patients with positive Nocardia spp. culture, from January 2019 to January 2023, at a Terciary Hospital in Portugal. Results: Nocardiosis was considered in 18 cases with a median age of 63.8-years-old. At least one immunosuppressive cause was identified in 70% of patients. Five patients had Disseminated Nocardiosis (DN). The lung was the most common site of clinical disease (77.8%) and Nocardia was most commonly identified in respiratory tract samples. The most frequently isolated species were Nocardia nova/africana (n = 7) followed by Nocardia cyriacigeorgica (n = 3) and Nocardia pseudobrasiliensis (n = 3). The majority of the patients (94.4%) received antibiotic therapy, of whom as many as 55.6% were treated with monotherapy. The most frequently prescribed antibiotic was trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Selected antimicrobial agents were generally effective, with linezolid and cotrimoxazole (100% Susceptibility [S]) and amikacin (94% S) having the most activity against Nocardia species. The median (IQR) duration of treatment was 24.2 (1–51.4) weeks for DN; The overall one-year case fatality was 33.3% (n = 6) and was higher in the DN (66.7%). No recurrence was observed. Conclusion: Nocardiosis is an emerging infectious disease with a poor prognosis, particularly in DN. This review offers essential epidemiological insights and underscores the importance of gaining a better understanding of the microbiology of nocardiosis. Such knowledge can lead to the optimization of antimicrobial therapy and, when necessary, guide appropriate surgical interventions to prevent unfavorable outcomes.

Abstract Microgramma vacciniifolia, an epiphyte fern, hosts of two stem galls. One is induced by Tortrimosaica polypodivora (Lepidoptera), which can also induce galls in M. squamulosa and M. mortoniana. The alterations induced by T. polypodivora on M. vacciniifolia stem were compared to non-galled organs to evaluate the anatomical potentials of host ferns in response to a galling Lepidoptera. Histochemical and histometrical comparisons between galled and non-galled stems were performed to assess the processes leading to gall formation. M. vacciinifolia and M. squamulosa galls were anatomically similar, although their sizes differ, reflecting the growth potential of each host species. Simple structural alterations, such as hyperplasia of cortical and pericycle cells, occur during gall formation, while cell hypertrophy, common in more complex galls, was only detected on the pericycle. Meristele size remained unaltered in galls, but the pericycle appeared hyperplasic. The protective scales were broader in galls. A nutritive tissue with lipids, typical to Lepidoptera galls, was observed around the larval chamber, with small cells and meristematic activity. Starch, proteins, and reducing sugars accumulated in nutritive cells are uncommonly found in Lepidoptera galls. Despite simple structural alterations, T. polypodivora induced a gradient of primary metabolites, similar to angiosperm galls.

Resumo Microgramma vacciniifolia, uma samambaia epifíta, abriga duas galhas caulinares, uma delas induzida por Tortrimosaica polypodivora (Lepidoptera), que também induz galhas em M. squamulosa e em M. mortoniana. Alterações induzidas por T. polypodivora nos caules de M. vacciniifolia foram comparadas aos caules não-galhados, para avaliar os potenciais anatômicos das samambaias hospedeiras em resposta a um Lepidoptera galhador. Comparações histoquímicas e histométricas foram realizadas para avaliar os processos que levam à formação das galhas. As galhas de M. vacciinifolia e M. squamulosa são anatomicamente semelhantes, embora seus tamanhos diferem, refletindo o potencial de crescimento de cada espécie hospedeira. Alterações estruturais simples ocorrem durante a formação da galha, como hiperplasia das células corticais e pericíclicas, enquanto hipertrofia celular, comum em galhas mais complexas, é detectada apenas no periciclo. Os meristelos não têm o tamanho alterado, mas o periciclo apresenta hiperplasia. As escamas são mais largas nas galhas. Ao redor da câmara larval observa-se um tecido nutritivo com lipídios, típico das galhas de Lepidoptera, com células pequenas e atividade meristemática. Amido, proteínas e açúcares redutores também se acumulam nas células nutritivas, raramente relatado em galhas de Lepidoptera. Apesar das alterações estruturais simples, T. polypodivora induz o estabelecimento de um gradiente de metabólitos primários, semelhante ao observado em galhas de angiospermas.

Abstract This study investigated the prevalence of possible bruxism and its association with social capital among undergraduates during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. This cross-sectional study was conducted at a private university in Southern Brazil. Data were collected through a self-administered electronic questionnaire (Google Forms). Possible bruxism was measured using the following question: “Do you grind your teeth or clench your jaws?”. Social capital was evaluated using individual social networks. Data on self-perceived oral health, anxiety, sociodemographics, and information related to university graduates were also collected. Adjusted logistic regression models with a hierarchical approach were used to evaluate associations. The results are presented as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs). Altogether, 345 undergraduates participated in the study, with a mean age of 21.8 years (standard deviation = 5.21). The prevalence of bruxism in the sample was 57.1%. Undergraduates with low social capital had 2.06 times greater odds of bruxism than their counterparts (OR 2.06; 95%CI 1.11–3.83). Female undergraduates (OR 2.40, 95%CI 1.39–4.12), those who were in the final year of university (OR 1.13, 95%CI 1.04–1.21), and those who perceived they needed dental treatment (OR 1.91; CI: 1.21–3.02) also had greater odds of possible bruxism. In conclusion, the prevalence of possible bruxism was high among undergraduate students during the COVID-19 pandemic and associated with lower social capital levels. Knowledge of these factors is important to identify risk groups and plan strategies to control bruxism in this population.