Mode of delivery according to Robson classification and perinatal outcomes in restricted and small for gestational age fetuses.

Objective: To evaluate the mode of delivery according to Robson classification (RC) and the perinatal outcomes in fetal growth restriction (FGR) and small for gestational age (SGA) fetuses. Methods: Retrospective cohort study by analyzing medical records of singleton pregnancies from two consecutive years (2018 and 2019). FGR was defined according to Delphi Consensus. The Robson groups were divided into two intervals (1-5.1 and 5.2-10). Results: Total of 852 cases were included: FGR (n = 85), SGA (n = 20) and control (n=747). FGR showed higher percentages of newborns < 1,500 grams (p<0.001) and higher overall cesarean section (CS) rates (p<0.001). FGR had the highest rates of neonatal resuscitation and neonatal intensive care unit admission (p<0.001). SGA and control presented higher percentage of patients classified in 1 - 5.1 RC groups, while FGR had higher percentage in 5.2 - 10 RC groups (p<0.001). FGR, SGA and control did not differ in the mode of delivery in the 1-5.1 RC groups as all groups showed a higher percentage of vaginal deliveries (p=0.476). Conclusion: Fetuses with FGR had higher CS rates and worse perinatal outcomes than SGA and control fetuses. Most FGR fetuses were delivered by cesarean section and were allocated in 5.2 to 10 RC groups, while most SGA and control fetuses were allocated in 1 to 5.1 RC groups. Vaginal delivery occurred in nearly 60% of FGR allocated in 1-5.1 RC groups without a significant increase in perinatal morbidity. Therefore, the vaginal route should be considered in FGR fetuses.

Apomixis beyond trees in the Brazilian savanna: new insights from the orchid Zygopetalum mackayi.

n the Neotropics, the focus of apomictic studies predominantly centres on trees within the Brazilian savanna, characterized, mostly as sporophytic and facultative, associated with polyploidy and polyembryony. To enhance our understanding of the mechanisms governing apomixis and sexual reproduction in tropical herbaceous plants, we clarify the relationship between apomixis, chromosome counts, and polyembryony in the epiphytic orchid Zygopetalum mackayi, which forms a polyploid complex within rocky outcrops in both the Brazilian savanna and the Atlantic forest. To define embryo origins and describe megasporogenesis and megagametogenesis, we performed manual self-pollinations in first-day flowers of cultivated plants, considering all three cytotypes (2x, 3x, 4x) of this species. Flowers and fruits at different stages were collected to describe the development and morphology of ovules and seeds considering sexual and apomictic processes. As self-pollination treatments resulted in high fruit abortion in diploids, we also examined pollen tube development in aborted flowers and fruits to search for putative anomalies. Megasporogenesis and megagametogenesis occur regularly in all cytotypes. Apomixis is facultative and sporophytic, and associated with polyploid cytotypes, while diploid individuals exclusively engage in sexual reproduction. Polyembryony is caused mainly by the production of adventitious embryos from nucellar cells of triploids and tetraploids, but also by the development of multiple archesporia in all cytotypes. Like other apomictic angiosperms within the Brazilian savanna, our findings demonstrate that apomixis in Z. mackayi relies on pollinators for seed production. We also consider the ecological implications of these apomictic patterns in Z. mackayi within the context of habitat loss and its dependence on pollinators.

The RNA binding proteins LARP4A and LARP4B promote sarcoma and carcinoma growth and metastasis.

RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are emerging as important regulators of cancer pathogenesis. We reveal that the RBPs LARP4A and LARP4B are differentially overexpressed in osteosarcoma and osteosarcoma lung metastases, as well as in prostate cancer. Depletion of LARP4A and LARP4B reduced tumor growth and metastatic spread in xenografts, as well as inhibiting cell proliferation, motility, and migration. Transcriptomic profiling and high-content multiparametric analyses unveiled a central role for LARP4B, but not LARP4A, in regulating cell cycle progression in osteosarcoma and prostate cancer cells, potentially through modulating key cell cycle proteins such as Cyclins B1 and E2, Aurora B, and E2F1. This first systematic comparison between LARP4A and LARP4B assigns new pro-tumorigenic functions to LARP4A and LARP4B in bone and prostate cancer, highlighting their similarities while also indicating distinct functional differences. Uncovering clear biological roles for these paralogous proteins provides new avenues for identifying tissue-specific targets and potential druggable intervention.

Mode of delivery according to Robson classification and perinatal outcomes in restricted and small for gestational age fetuses

Abstract Objective To evaluate the mode of delivery according to Robson classification (RC) and the perinatal outcomes in fetal growth restriction (FGR) and small for gestational age (SGA) fetuses. Methods Retrospective cohort study by analyzing medical records of singleton pregnancies from two consecutive years (2018 and 2019). FGR was defined according to Delphi Consensus. The Robson groups were divided into two intervals (1-5.1 and 5.2-10). Results Total of 852 cases were included: FGR (n = 85), SGA (n = 20) and control (n=747). FGR showed higher percentages of newborns < 1,500 grams (p<0.001) and higher overall cesarean section (CS) rates (p<0.001). FGR had the highest rates of neonatal resuscitation and neonatal intensive care unit admission (p<0.001). SGA and control presented higher percentage of patients classified in 1 - 5.1 RC groups, while FGR had higher percentage in 5.2 - 10 RC groups (p<0.001). FGR, SGA and control did not differ in the mode of delivery in the 1-5.1 RC groups as all groups showed a higher percentage of vaginal deliveries (p=0.476). Conclusion Fetuses with FGR had higher CS rates and worse perinatal outcomes than SGA and control fetuses. Most FGR fetuses were delivered by cesarean section and were allocated in 5.2 to 10 RC groups, while most SGA and control fetuses were allocated in 1 to 5.1 RC groups. Vaginal delivery occurred in nearly 60% of FGR allocated in 1-5.1 RC groups without a significant increase in perinatal morbidity. Therefore, the vaginal route should be considered in FGR fetuses.

Long-term effect of firing protocols on surface roughness and flexural strength of lithium disilicate glass-ceramic.

This study evaluated the effect of different firing protocols on the surface roughness and flexural strength of CAD/CAM lithium disilicate glass-ceramic (LD) after aging methods. Forty-two LD bars of 16 x 4 x 2 mm (IPS e-max CAD, Ivoclar) were randomly separated into two groups according to firing protocols: Single firing-Staining, glazing, and crystallization in a single step; Multiple firings-Crystallization+First staining+Firing+Second staining+Firing+Glazing+Firing. After protocols, initial surface roughness readings were taken (Surfcorder SE1700, Kosakalab). Samples were then randomly separated into three groups (n=7) according to the aging methods they were submitted: Thermomechanical cycling (TMC, ER System, Erios, 1,200,000 cycles, 0.3 MPa, 2 Hz and 5°C/37°C/55°C, 30 s swell time); Simulated toothbrushing (STB, Pepsodent, MAVTEC, 73,000 cycles), and Control (no aging). Final surface roughness readings were done, and samples were submitted to a three-point bending test (OM100, Odeme Dental Research) and fractographic analysis by scanning electron microscopy (EVO-MA10, ZEISS). Data were analyzed (2-way ANOVA, (α=.05). There was no difference (p>.05) in the flexural strength between the firing protocols, regardless of the aging method. STB decreased the flexural strength of samples submitted to multiple firings, different from control (p<.05). Without aging (Control), before TMC, and after STB, LD had lower surface roughness when submitted to multiple firings than to single firing (p<.05). The firing protocols did not affect the flexural strength or the surface roughness of the lithium disilicate glass-ceramic, even after aging. However, toothbrushing negatively affected the flexural strength and smoothed the surface of the ceramic submitted to multiple firings.

Examination of Raw Samples and Ethanol Extracts of Gerês Propolis Collected in Different Years.

Propolis, a natural resin created by bees, has garnered significant attention from both the scientific community and industry due to an impressive range of bioactivities. Nonetheless, the intrinsic variability in its chemical composition and bioactive profiles has been hindering propolis' full potential use. We previously showed that ethanol extracts (EEs) of a Portuguese propolis sample (Gerês) collected over four consecutive years displayed similar chemical and biological profiles, a constancy never documented before. However, the characteristics of the unprocessed samples of Gerês propolis were never described. Hence, the central objective of this study is to assess the quality parameters of unprocessed propolis samples collected from Gerês (G), over a four-year period (2019-2022), alongside the analysis of the chemical composition and bioactivities of the EEs prepared with the same raw samples. The ash, wax, balsam and water contents of the unprocessed samples-G19 to G22-showed minor fluctuations, likely attributed to uncontrollable natural events impacting the propolis source and collection process. On the other hand, the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of all the four ethanol extracts (G19.EE-G22.EE) consistently align with prior studies. Furthermore, the Gerês propolis extracts showed remarkable uniformity in chemical composition parameters too, particularly concerning total polyphenol, flavonoid and ortho-diphenol contents. In summary, our research reinforces the beneficial properties of propolis and show that extracts' bioactivities remain within the reference ranges for Gerês propolis, despite minor differences in unprocessed samples, suggesting a consistent action over time. Thus, this work could be instrumental towards the establishment of standard parameters for propolis applications, offering valuable insights to this field of propolis research.

Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis: Still a Diagnostic Challenge.

Introduction: Eosinophilic gastroenteritis (EoG) is a rare condition with a yet poorly understood pathophysiology. Case Presentation: We report on a case of a 36-year-old woman with a history of atopy presenting with nausea, abdominal discomfort, weight loss, and ascites. Laboratorial analysis revealed peripheral eosinophilia and a slight elevation of inflammatory markers. The patient pursued medical assistance several times with a delay in the diagnosis. The pathway to the diagnosis of EoG with serosal infiltration and further management is presented. Discussion: Despite being diagnosed by exclusion, it is important to suspect EoG with subserosa involvement in patients presenting with the uncommon association of peripheral eosinophilia and ascites, particularly if there is a history of atopy.

Introdução: A gastroenterite eosinofílica é uma condição rara, com uma etiologia ainda pouco compreendida. Caso Clínico: Uma mulher de 36 anos, com antecedentes de atopia, que se apresenta com náuseas, desconforto abdominal difuso, perda ponderal e ascite de novo. As análises laboratoriais revelaram eosinofilia periférica e ligeira elevação dos parâmetros inflamatórios. A doente recorreu a cuidados de saúde repetidamente sem um diagnóstico. É apresentado o percurso até ao diagnóstico de gastroenterite eosinofílica com infiltração serosa e tratamento subsequente. Discussão: Apesar de ser um diagnóstico de exclusão, é importante suspeitar de gastroenterite eosinofílica com envolvimento subseroso perante a associação de ascite a sintomas gastrointestinais inespecíficos particularmente em doentes com história de atopia.

Ultra-light-weight microwave X-band EMI shielding or RAM material made from sustainable pyrolysed cork templates.

Cork is a renewable and sustainable material, highly porous and lightweight. We valorised waste cork and recycled wine stoppers to make pyrolysed/carbonised solid cork, for use as economic and sustainable microwave (MW) absorbers at the microwave X-band (8-12 GHz), without binder or additives. Although cork is already a very lightweight material (0.16 g cm-3), the pyrolysed cork is five-times less dense at 0.031 g cm-3, was amorphous graphitic carbon, and had an excellent shielding effectiveness (SET) of -18 to -38 dB, depending on thickness, with attenuation of the electromagnetic energy through internal reflection within the cellular cork structure. Furthermore, this ultra-light-weight material has an extremely high MW specific shielding effectiveness or efficiency (SSE), between -640 to -1235 dB g-1 cm3 over the entire X-band range, depending on thickness (3.0-8.6 mm), one of the highest reported for any pure carbon material, this upper value being more than twice that of any previously reported graphite-based foams.

Long-term effect of firing protocols on surface roughness and flexural strength of lithium disilicate glass-ceramic

Abstract This study evaluated the effect of different firing protocols on the surface roughness and flexural strength of CAD/CAM lithium disilicate glass-ceramic (LD) after aging methods. Forty-two LD bars of 16 x 4 x 2 mm (IPS e-max CAD, Ivoclar) were randomly separated into two groups according to firing protocols: Single firing-Staining, glazing, and crystallization in a single step; Multiple firings-Crystallization+First staining+Firing+Second staining+Firing+Glazing+Firing. After protocols, initial surface roughness readings were taken (Surfcorder SE1700, Kosakalab). Samples were then randomly separated into three groups (n=7) according to the aging methods they were submitted: Thermomechanical cycling (TMC, ER System, Erios, 1,200,000 cycles, 0.3 MPa, 2 Hz and 5°C/37°C/55°C, 30 s swell time); Simulated toothbrushing (STB, Pepsodent, MAVTEC, 73,000 cycles), and Control (no aging). Final surface roughness readings were done, and samples were submitted to a three-point bending test (OM100, Odeme Dental Research) and fractographic analysis by scanning electron microscopy (EVO-MA10, ZEISS). Data were analyzed (2-way ANOVA, (α=.05). There was no difference (p>.05) in the flexural strength between the firing protocols, regardless of the aging method. STB decreased the flexural strength of samples submitted to multiple firings, different from control (p<.05). Without aging (Control), before TMC, and after STB, LD had lower surface roughness when submitted to multiple firings than to single firing (p<.05). The firing protocols did not affect the flexural strength or the surface roughness of the lithium disilicate glass-ceramic, even after aging. However, toothbrushing negatively affected the flexural strength and smoothed the surface of the ceramic submitted to multiple firings.

Resumo Este estudo avaliou o efeito de diferentes protocolos de queima na rugosidade de superfície e resistência à flexão de uma cerâmica vítrea de dissilicato de lítio (DL) para CAD/CAM, após métodos de envelhecimento. Quarenta e dois barras de DL (IPS e-max CAD, Ivoclar) de 16 x 4 x 2 mm foram separadas aleatoriamente em dois grupos de acordo com os protocolos de queima: Single firing-Pigmentação, glazeamento e cristalização em única etapa. Multiple firings-Cristalização+Primeira camada do pigmento+Queima+Segunda camada do pigmento+Queima+Glazeamento+Queima. Após os protocolos, foram realizadas leituras iniciais de rugosidade de superfície (Surfcorder SE1700, Kosakalab). As amostras foram então separadas aleatoriamente em três grupos (n=7) segundo o método de envelhecimento a que foram submetidas: Ciclagem termomecânica (CTM, Sistema ER, Erios, 1.200.000 ciclos, 0.3 MPa, 2 Hz e 5°C/37°C/55°C, 30 s de imersão), Escovação simulada (ES, Pepsodent, MAVTEC, 73.000 ciclos) e Controle (sem envelhecimento). Leituras finais de rugosidade foram realizadas, e as amostras foram submetidas ao ensaio de resistência à flexão em três pontos (OM100, Odeme Dental Research) e à análise fractográfica por microscopia eletrônica de varredura (EVO-MA10, ZEISS). Os dados foram analisados (ANOVA de dois fatores, (α=.05). Não houve diferença (p>.05) na resistência à flexão entre os protocolos de queima, independente do envelhecimento. ES diminuiu a resistência à flexão das amostras submetidas a multiple firings, diferente do controle (p<.05). Sem envelhecimento (Controle), antes da CTM e após ES, LD apresentou menor rugosidade de superfície quando submetido a multiple firings do que a single firing (p<.05). Os protocolos de queima não afetaram a resistência à flexão nem a rugosidade de superfície da cerâmica vítrea de dissilicato de lítio, mesmo após envelhecimento. No entanto, a escovação afetou negativamente a resistência à flexão e poliu a superfície da cerâmica submetida a multiple firings.

THE ROLE OF BOWEL DIARIES IN A "REAL-LIFE" SETTING.

BACKGROUND: Despite the potential advantages of patients' self-recordings of bowel habits in lower digestive disorders, few studies evaluate the relevance of clinical information obtained through bowel diaries in clinical practice. OBJECTIVE: The main objective of this study was to evaluate the role of bowel diaries as an auxiliary diagnostic tool in lower gastrointestinal disorders consultations. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, at the end of their gastroenterology consultation, patients were questioned about their bowel habits and gastrointestinal symptoms. The bowel diary was then filled by the patients at home for 2 weeks. The data collected from the clinical interview and from the bowel diaries were analyzed. RESULTS: Fifty-three patients participated in the study. Patients underestimated the number of their bowel movements (BM) in the interviews compared with the bowel diaries (P=0.007). There was a poor agreement between stool consistencies described in the interviews and recorded in the diaries (k=0.281). Patients overestimated their straining during evacuation in the interviews compared with the diaries (P=0.012). Regarding the subgroups' analysis, patients with proctological disorders described less BM in their interviews (P=0.033). Straining during evacuation was higher in the interviews of patients without proctological disorders (P=0.028) and in the interviews of more educated patients (P=0.028). CONCLUSION: Overall, there were discrepancies between the clinical interview and the bowel diary regarding the number of BM, the stool consistency and straining. Bowel diaries are therefore a relevant instrument as a complement to the clinical interview to objectify patients' complaints and treat functional gastrointestinal disorders more adequately.

Prediction of lung maturity through quantitative ultrasound analysis of fetal lung texture in women with diabetes during pregnancy.

OBJECTIVES: The present study aimed to evaluate the performance of QuantusFLM® software, which performs quantitative ultrasound analysis of fetal lung texture, in predicting lung maturity in fetuses of diabetic mothers. METHODS: The patients included in this study were between 34 and 38 weeks and 6 days gestation and were divided into two groups: (1) patients with diabetes on medication and (2) control. The ultrasound images were performed up to 48 h prior to delivery and analyzed using QuantusFLM® software, which classified each fetus as high or low risk for neonatal respiratory morbidity based on lung maturity or immaturity. RESULTS: A total of 111 patients were included in the study, being 55 in diabetes and 56 in control group. The pregnant women with diabetes had significantly higher body mass index (27.8 kg/m2 vs. 25.9 kg/m2, respectively, p=0.02), increased birth weight (3,135 g vs. 2,887 g, respectively, p=0.002), and a higher rate of labor induction (63.6 vs. 30.4 %, respectively, p<0.001) compared to the control group. QuantusFLM® software was able to predict lung maturity in diabetes group with 96.4 % accuracy, 96.4 % sensitivity and 100 % positive predictive value. Considering the total number of patients, the software demonstrated accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 95.5 , 97.2, 33.3, 98.1 and 25 %, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: QuantusFLM® was an accurate method for predicting lung maturity in normal and DM singleton pregnancies and has the potential to aid in deciding the timing of delivery for pregnant women with DM.

Phenolic Compounds Contribution to Portuguese Propolis Anti-Melanoma Activity.

Melanoma is the deadliest type of skin cancer, with about 61,000 deaths annually worldwide. Late diagnosis increases mortality rates due to melanoma's capacity to metastasise rapidly and patients' resistance to the available conventional therapies. Consequently, the interest in natural products as a strategy for drug discovery has been emerging. Propolis, a natural product produced by bees, has several biological properties, including anticancer effects. Propolis from Gerês is one of the most studied Portuguese propolis. Our group has previously demonstrated that an ethanol extract of Gerês propolis collected in 2018 (G18.EE) and its fractions (n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and n-butanol) decrease melanoma cell viability. Out of all the fractions, G18.EE-n-BuOH showed the highest potential as a melanoma pharmacological therapy. Thus, in this work, G18.EE-n-BuOH was fractioned into 17 subfractions whose effect was evaluated in A375 BRAF-mutated melanoma cells. The subfractions with the highest cytotoxic activity were analysed by UPLC-DAD-ESI/MSn in an attempt to understand which phenolic compounds could account for the anti-melanoma activity. The compounds identified are typical of the Gerês propolis, and some of them have already been linked with antitumor effectiveness. These results reaffirm that propolis compounds can be a source of new drugs and the isolation of compounds could allow its use in traditional medicine.

A formação inicial em Educação Física: análise do ensino do voleibol através dos jogos reduzidos a partir das ementas de universidades federais / The initial formation in Physical Education: analysis of the teaching of volleyball through Small-sided Games from the itinerary of federal universities / La formación inicial en Educación Física: análisis de la enseñanza del Volleyball a través de juegos reducidos y condicionados a partir de los menús de las universidad federales

Os jogos reduzidos e condicionados são uma estratégia eficaz no ensino e aprendizagem de competências tático-técnicas no voleibol. O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar se os jogos reduzidos e condicionados no voleibol fazem parte do ementário dos cursos de Educação Física das universidades federais brasileiras. Utilizamos a investigação documental com a coleta de dados nas universidades federais cadastradas na base de dados do e-MEC. Os resultados mostram que há indicação de utilização dos jogos reduzidos e condicionados em duas disciplinas de voleibol analisadas. Concluímos que deve haver mudanças no ensino dos jogos reduzidos e condicionados para que as universidades federais possam atualizar suas ementas no intuito de formar recursos humanos cada vez mais qualificados (AU)

The Small-sided Games are an effective strategy in the teaching and learning of tactical and technical skills in volleyball. The objective of this study was to verify if the Small-sided Games in volleyball are part of the itinerary of Physical Education courses in Brazilian federal universities. A documental investigation was used with data collection from federal uni-versities registered in the e-MEC database. The results show there is an indication of the use of reduced and conditioned games in two volleyball disciplines analyzed. The conclusion is that there must be changes in the teaching of Small-sided Games so that the federal universities can update their curriculum in order to form more qualified human resources (AU).

Los juegos reducidos y condicionados son una estrategia efi-caz en la enseñanza y el aprendizaje de habilidades tácticas y técnicas en el Volleyball. El objetivo de este estudio fue verificar si los juegos reduci-dos y condicionados en Volleyball hacen parte del plan de estudios de los cursos de Educación Física de las universidades federales brasileñas. Se utilizó una investigación documental con recolección de datos de univer-sidades federales registradas en la base de datos e-MEC. Los resultados muestran que hay indicios del uso de juegos reducidos y condicionados en dos disciplinas de voleibol analizadas. La conclusión es que debe ha-ber cambios en la enseñanza de los juegos reducidos y condicionados para que las universidades federales puedan actualizar sus pan de es-tudios con el fin de formar cada vez más recursos humanos calificados (AU).

A formação inicial em Educação Física: análise do ensino do voleibol através dos jogos reduzidos a partir das ementas de universidades federais / The initial formation in Physical Education: analysis of the teaching of volleyball through Small-sided Games from the itinerary of federal universities / La formación inicial en Educación Física: análisis de la enseñanza del Volleyball a través de juegos reducidos y condicionados a partir de los menús de las universidad federales

Os jogos reduzidos e condicionados são uma estratégia eficaz no ensino e aprendizagem de competências tático-técnicas no voleibol. O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar se os jogos reduzidos e condicionados no voleibol fazem parte do ementário dos cursos de Educação Física das universidades federais brasileiras. Utilizamos a investigação documental com a coleta de dados nas universidades federais cadastradas na base de dados do e-MEC. Os resultados mostram que há indicação de utilização dos jogos reduzidos e condicionados em duas disciplinas de voleibol analisadas. Concluímos que deve haver mudanças no ensino dos jogos reduzidos e condicionados para que as universidades federais possam atualizar suas ementas no intuito de formar recursos humanos cada vez mais qualificados.

The Small-sided Games are an effective strategy in the teaching and learning of tactical and technical skills in volleyball. The objective of this study was to verify if the Small-sided Games in volleyball are part of the itinerary of Physical Education courses in Brazilian federal universities. A documental investigation was used with data collection from federal uni-versities registered in the e-MEC database. The results show there is an indication of the use of reduced and conditioned games in two volleyball disciplines analyzed. The conclusion is that there must be changes in the teaching of Small-sided Games so that the federal universities can update their curriculum in order to form more qualified human resources.

Los juegos reducidos y condicionados son una estrategia efi-caz en la enseñanza y el aprendizaje de habilidades tácticas y técnicas en el Volleyball. El objetivo de este estudio fue verificar si los juegos reduci-dos y condicionados en Volleyball hacen parte del plan de estudios de los cursos de Educación Física de las universidades federales brasileñas. Se utilizó una investigación documental con recolección de datos de universidades federales registradas en la base de datos e-MEC. Los resultados muestran que hay indicios del uso de juegos reducidos y condicionados en dos disciplinas de voleibol analizadas. La conclusión es que debe ha-ber cambios en la enseñanza de los juegos reducidos y condicionados para que las universidades federales puedan actualizar sus pan de es-tudios con el fin de formar cada vez más recursos humanos calificados.

Using Kinetic Modelling to Infer Adaptations in Saccharomyces cerevisiae Carbohydrate Storage Metabolism to Dynamic Substrate Conditions.

Microbial metabolism is strongly dependent on the environmental conditions. While these can be well controlled under laboratory conditions, large-scale bioreactors are characterized by inhomogeneities and consequently dynamic conditions for the organisms. How Saccharomyces cerevisiae response to frequent perturbations in industrial bioreactors is still not understood mechanistically. To study the adjustments to prolonged dynamic conditions, we used published repeated substrate perturbation regime experimental data, extended it with proteomic measurements and used both for modelling approaches. Multiple types of data were combined; including quantitative metabolome, 13C enrichment and flux quantification data. Kinetic metabolic modelling was applied to study the relevant intracellular metabolic response dynamics. An existing model of yeast central carbon metabolism was extended, and different subsets of enzymatic kinetic constants were estimated. A novel parameter estimation pipeline based on combinatorial enzyme selection supplemented by regularization was developed to identify and predict the minimum enzyme and parameter adjustments from steady-state to dynamic substrate conditions. This approach predicted proteomic changes in hexose transport and phosphorylation reactions, which were additionally confirmed by proteome measurements. Nevertheless, the modelling also hints at a yet unknown kinetic or regulation phenomenon. Some intracellular fluxes could not be reproduced by mechanistic rate laws, including hexose transport and intracellular trehalase activity during substrate perturbation cycles.

Spatially resolved transcriptomics reveals pro-inflammatory fibroblast involved in lymphocyte recruitment through CXCL8 and CXCL10.

The interplay among different cells in a tissue is essential for maintaining homeostasis. Although disease states have been traditionally attributed to individual cell types, increasing evidence and new therapeutic options have demonstrated the primary role of multicellular functions to understand health and disease, opening new avenues to understand pathogenesis and develop new treatment strategies. We recently described the cellular composition and dynamics of the human oral mucosa; however, the spatial arrangement of cells is needed to better understand a morphologically complex tissue. Here, we link single-cell RNA sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, and high-resolution multiplex fluorescence in situ hybridisation to characterise human oral mucosa in health and oral chronic inflammatory disease. We deconvolved expression for resolution enhancement of spatial transcriptomic data and defined highly specialised epithelial and stromal compartments describing location-specific immune programs. Furthermore, we spatially mapped a rare pathogenic fibroblast population localised in a highly immunogenic region, responsible for lymphocyte recruitment through CXCL8 and CXCL10 and with a possible role in pathological angiogenesis through ALOX5AP. Collectively, our study provides a comprehensive reference for the study of oral chronic disease pathogenesis.

O papel dos diários intestinais na consulta de gastrenterologia / The role of bowel diaries in a "real-life" setting

ABSTRACT Background Despite the potential advantages of patients' self-recordings of bowel habits in lower digestive disorders, few studies evaluate the relevance of clinical information obtained through bowel diaries in clinical practice. Objective The main objective of this study was to evaluate the role of bowel diaries as an auxiliary diagnostic tool in lower gastrointestinal disorders consultations. Methods In this cross-sectional study, at the end of their gastroenterology consultation, patients were questioned about their bowel habits and gastrointestinal symptoms. The bowel diary was then filled by the patients at home for 2 weeks. The data collected from the clinical interview and from the bowel diaries were analyzed. Results Fifty-three patients participated in the study. Patients underestimated the number of their bowel movements (BM) in the interviews compared with the bowel diaries (P=0.007). There was a poor agreement between stool consistencies described in the interviews and recorded in the diaries (k=0.281). Patients overestimated their straining during evacuation in the interviews compared with the diaries (P=0.012). Regarding the subgroups' analysis, patients with proctological disorders described less BM in their interviews (P=0.033). Straining during evacuation was higher in the interviews of patients without proctological disorders (P=0.028) and in the interviews of more educated patients (P=0.028). Conclusion Overall, there were discrepancies between the clinical interview and the bowel diary regarding the number of BM, the stool consistency and straining. Bowel diaries are therefore a relevant instrument as a complement to the clinical interview to objectify patients' complaints and treat functional gastrointestinal disorders more adequately.

RESUMO Contexto: Apesar das potenciais vantagens do diário intestinal como complemento à entrevista clínica, raros estudos avaliam a relevância da informação clínica obtida a partir de diários intestinais na prática clínica. Objetivo Os principais objetivos deste estudo foram avaliar o papel do diário intestinal como ferramenta diagnóstica numa consulta dedicada a patologia digestiva baixa. Métodos Foi realizado um estudo transversal, num período de 3 meses, em que no final das consultas os pacientes foram entrevistados relativamente a dados demográficos, antecedentes clínicos e hábitos e sintomas intestinais. Em seguida, foi solicitado o auto-preenchimento de um diário intestinal durante 2 semanas. Foram comparadas as respostas obtidas na entrevista clínica com os registos dos diários intestinais. Resultados: Cinquenta e três pacientes participaram no estudo. A frequência de evacuações reportada nas entrevistas clínicas e nos diários intestinais dos pacientes foi significativamente diferente (P=0,007). Verificou-se apenas uma concordância mínima entre a consistência das fezes descrita nas entrevistas e registada nos diários (κ=0,281). Em relação ao esforço evacuatório os pacientes sobrestimaram o seu esforço ao evacuar nas entrevistas (P=0,012). Adicionalmente, verificou-se que pacientes com doenças proctológicas descreveram menos evacuações nas suas entrevistas (P=0,033). A descrição do esforço durante a evacuação foi superestimada nas entrevistas de pacientes sem distúrbios proctológicos (P=0,028) e de pacientes com um nível mais elevado de educação (P=0,028). Conclusão: Globalmente verificaram-se discrepâncias entre a entrevista clínica e o diário intestinal dos pacientes em relação ao número de dejeções, à consistência das fezes e ao esforço evacuatório. Assim, esta ferramenta revelou-se uma potencial mais-valia na prática clínica diária, permitindo objetivar as queixas e consequentemente tratar os pacientes de forma mais adequada.

Comparative genomic analysis of ovine and other host associated isolates of Staphylococcus aureus exhibit the important role of mobile genetic elements and virulence factors in host adaptation.

Staphylococcus aureus is the main etiological agent of mastitis in small ruminants worldwide. This disease has a difficult cure and possible relapse, leading to significant economic losses in production, milk quality and livestock. This study performed comparative genomic analyses between 73 S. aureus genomes from different hosts (human, bovine, pig and others). This work isolated and sequenced 12 of these genomes from ovine. This study contributes to the knowledge of genomic specialization and the role of specific genes in establishing infection in ovine mastitis-associated S. aureus. The genomes of S. aureus isolated from sheep maintained a higher representation when grouped with clonal complexes 130 and 133. The genomes showed high genetic similarity, the species pan-genome consisting of 4200 genes (central = 2008, accessory = 1559 and unique = 634). Among these, 277 unique genes were related to the genomes isolated from sheep, with 39.6 % as hypothetical proteins, 6.4 % as phages, 6.4 % as toxins, 2.9 % as transporters, and 44.7 % as related to other proteins. Furthermore, at the pathogen level, they showed 80 genes associated with virulence factors and 19 with antibiotic resistance shared in almost all isolates. Although S. aureus isolated from ovine showed susceptibility to antimicrobials in vitro, ten genes were predicted to be associated with antibiotic inactivation and efflux pump, suggesting resistance to gentamicin and penicillin. This work may contribute to identifying genes acquired by horizontal transfer and their role in host adaptation, virulence, bacterial resistance, and characterization of strains affecting ovine.

Lições aprendidas em tempos pandêmicos: revisão de escopo sobre a atuação docente e os impactos na saúde / Lessons learned in pandemic times: scope review on teaching activity and health impacts / Lecciones adquiridas en tiempos pandémicos: examen del ámbito de enseñanza y los efectos en la salud

A pandemia de Covid-19 alterou a atuação dos profissionais da educação para o ensino remoto devido à emergência sanitária de saúde pública global. Esse novo formato de trabalho trouxe consequências e desafios para a educação mundial, e deixou legado a ser incorporado na prática educacional. Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar como a literatura científica nacional e internacional abordou o trabalho docente no período da pandemia de COVID-19, bem como a saúde desses profissionais e as lições aprendidas a partir desse contexto. Realizou-se uma revisão de escopo com abrangência nacional e internacional, no período que compreende os anos de 2020 a 2021. Foram analisados 36 estudos e identificados três temáticas principais: (1) atuação docente e estratégias pedagógicas, (2) impactos na saúde física e mental de docentes e (3) lições educacionais aprendidas. Constatou-se que a experiência do trabalho remoto emergencial, sem diretriz política específica e planejamento para desenvolvimento desta nova forma de desenvolvimento do trabalho docente foi complexa e imprevisível em todos os países componentes do estudo. Nos demais países pesquisados, os dados expressam um resultado semelhante ao brasileiro, com dificuldades no acesso e permanência à internet pelos estudantes e professores, além da ausência de equipamentos apropriados para ministrar/assistir as aulas remotas.

The COVID-19 pandemic has shifted the workings of education professionals to remote education due to the global public health health health emergency. This new format of work brought consequences and challenges for world education, and left a legacy to be incorporated into educational practice. This study aimed to analyse how national and international scientific literature addressed the teaching work in the period of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the health of these professionals and the lessons learned from this context. A national and international scoping review has been carried out in the period from 2020 to 2021. 36 studies were analysed and three main themes identified: (1) teaching performance and pedagogical strategies, (2) impacts on the physical and mental health of teachers and (3) educational lessons learned. It was found that the experience of remote emergency work, without specific policy guidelines and planning for the development of this new form of teaching work development, was complex and unpredictable in all the countries that were components of the study. In the other researched countries, the data expresses a result similar to the Brazilian one, with difficulties in access and permanence to the internet by the students and teachers, besides the absence of appropriate equipment for teaching/attending the remote lessons.

La pandemia del Covid-19 ha cambiado las acciones de los profesionales de la educación a distancia debido a la emergencia mundial de salud pública. Este nuevo formato de trabajo ha traído consecuencias y retos para la educación mundial y ha dejado el legado para ser incorporado a la práctica educativa. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar cómo la literatura científica nacional e internacional abordó el trabajo docente durante el período de pandemia COVID-19, así como la salud de estos profesionales y las lecciones aprendidas de él. En el período 2020-2021 se llevó a cabo un examen del alcance nacional e internacional. Se analizaron 36 estudios y se identificaron tres temas principales: 1) actividades docentes y estrategias pedagógicas, 2) impactos en la salud física y mental de los maestros y 3) lecciones educativas aprendidas. Se constató que la experiencia de la labor de emergencia a distancia, sin directrices normativas y planificación específicas para el desarrollo de esta nueva forma de desarrollo del trabajo docente, era compleja e impredecible en todos los países que elaboraban el estudio. En los otros países investigados, los datos expresan un resultado similar al del brasileño, con dificultades para acceder y permanecer en Internet por parte de estudiantes y profesores, además de la falta de equipamiento adecuado para dar/ver clases remotas.