Showing papers by "Universidade Positivo published in 2018"

Lignolytic-consortium omics analyses reveal novel genomes and pathways involved in lignin modification and valorization

Abstract: Lignin is a heterogeneous polymer representing a renewable source of aromatic and phenolic bio-derived products for the chemical industry. However, the inherent structural complexity and recalcitrance of lignin makes its conversion into valuable chemicals a challenge. Natural microbial communities produce biocatalysts derived from a large number of microorganisms, including those considered unculturable, which operate synergistically to perform a variety of bioconversion processes. Thus, metagenomic approaches are a powerful tool to reveal novel optimized metabolic pathways for lignin conversion and valorization. The lignin-degrading consortium (LigMet) was obtained from a sugarcane plantation soil sample. The LigMet taxonomical analyses (based on 16S rRNA) indicated prevalence of Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria and Firmicutes members, including the Alcaligenaceae and Micrococcaceae families, which were enriched in the LigMet compared to sugarcane soil. Analysis of global DNA sequencing revealed around 240,000 gene models, and 65 draft bacterial genomes were predicted. Along with depicting several peroxidases, dye-decolorizing peroxidases, laccases, carbohydrate esterases, and lignocellulosic auxiliary (redox) activities, the major pathways related to aromatic degradation were identified, including benzoate (or methylbenzoate) degradation to catechol (or methylcatechol), catechol ortho-cleavage, catechol meta-cleavage, and phthalate degradation. A novel Paenarthrobacter strain harboring eight gene clusters related to aromatic degradation was isolated from LigMet and was able to grow on lignin as major carbon source. Furthermore, a recombinant pathway for vanillin production was designed based on novel gene sequences coding for a feruloyl-CoA synthetase and an enoyl-CoA hydratase/aldolase retrieved from the metagenomic data set. The enrichment protocol described in the present study was successful for a microbial consortium establishment towards the lignin and aromatic metabolism, providing pathways and enzyme sets for synthetic biology engineering approaches. This work represents a pioneering study on lignin conversion and valorization strategies based on metagenomics, revealing several novel lignin conversion enzymes, aromatic-degrading bacterial genomes, and a novel bacterial strain of potential biotechnological interest. The validation of a biosynthetic route for vanillin synthesis confirmed the applicability of the targeted metagenome discovery approach for lignin valorization strategies.

Anxiety and malocclusion are associated with temporomandibular disorders in adolescents diagnosed by RDC/TMD. A cross-sectional study.

Abstract: BACKGROUND Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) is a multifactorial condition, which could be associated to occlusal and psychological factors, such as anxiety. OBJECTIVE Investigate if anxiety and malocclusion are associated with the prevalence of TMD in adolescents. METHODS To ensure a population-based representative sample, 934 adolescents aged 10 to 14 years old from Curitiba-PR, Brazil were randomly selected and examined according to Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) and malocclusion by a single-calibrated examiner (Kappa > 0.80). Anxiety was assessed according to trait anxiety (STAI-T), categorised as high, moderate and low levels. For occlusal exam, it was considered: Angel's molar relationship, anterior and posterior crossbite, excessive overjet, open and deep bite. The associations were analysed by the crude and adjusted prevalence ration (RPa ) of TMJ, calculated by a Poisson multivariate regression with robust variance (α = 0.05). RESULTS The prevalence of at least one type of malocclusion was found in 52.3%. Anxiety was found in high level (12.2%), moderate (70.4%) and low (17.5%). Presence of high anxiety was significantly associated with the prevalence of TMD symptoms (RPa = 4.06, P < 0.001), as well as the prevalence of myofascial pain (RPa = 24.78; P < 0.001) and prevalence of disc displacement with reduction (RPa = 11.08, P < 0.001). Adolescents Class II had higher prevalence of myofascial pain (Class II RPa = 1.73; P < 0.015) than adolescents Class I. Adolescents Class III presented higher prevalence of myofascial pain (PRa 2.53; P = 0.004) than adolescents Class I. CONCLUSION Anxiety is strongly associated with TMD in adolescents. Presence of Class II or III is associated with higher prevalence of myofascial pain in adolescentsPLESAE check and approve the edit made in the article title.

Hidden danger: Unexpected scenario in the vector-parasite dynamics of leishmaniases in the Brazil side of triple border (Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay).

Abstract: Every year about 3 million tourists from around the world visit Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay´s triple border region where the Iguacu Falls are located. Unfortunately, in recent years an increasing number of autochthonous canine and human visceral leishmaniasis (VL) cases have been reported. The parasite is Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum and it is transmitted by sand flies (Phlebotominae). To assess the risk factors favorable for the establishment and spread of potential vectors the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention light trap (CDC-light trap) collections were made in the Foz do Iguacu (FI) and Santa Terezinha de Itaipu (STI) townships and along two transects between them. Our study determined the Phlebotominae fauna, the factors that affect the presence and abundance of Lutzomyia longipalpis and Nyssomyia whitmani, the presence of L. infantum in different sand fly species and which Leishmania species are present in this region. Lutzomyia longipalpis was the prevalent species and its distribution was related to the abundance of dogs. Leishmania infantum was found in Lu. longipalpis, Ny. whitmani, Ny. neivai and a Lutzomyia sp. All the results are discussed within the Stockholm Paradigm and focus on their importance in the elaboration of public health policies in international border areas. This region has all the properties of stable VL endemic foci that can serve as a source of the disease for neighboring municipalities, states and countries. Most of the urban areas of tropical America are propitious for Lu. longipalpis establishment and have large dog populations. Pan American Health Organization´s initiative in supporting the public health policies in the border areas of this study is crucial and laudable. However, if stakeholders do not act quickly in controlling VL in this region, the scenario will inevitable become worse. Moreover, L. (Viannia) braziliensis found in this study supports the need to develop public health policies to avoid the spread of cutaneous leishmaniasis. The consequences of socioeconomic attributes, boundaries and frontiers on the spread of diseases cannot be neglected. For an efficient control, it is essential that urban planning is articulated with the neighboring cities.

Efficacy of Utilizing Argon Plasma Coagulation for Weight Regain in Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Patients: a Multi-center Study

Abstract: Endoscopic approaches exist for targeting weight regain after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), including endoscopic suturing, clipping, and sclerotherapy. Argon plasma coagulation (APC) is a noncontact electrocoagulation method, and when used in RYGB patients, it has shown reduction in the diameter of the gastrojejunal anastomosis. To study the effectiveness of APC for weight regain in terms of weight loss for RYGB patients, from eight bariatric centers. A retrospective chart review was performed for 558 patients at eight bariatric centers in the USA (1) and Brazil (7) who underwent APC procedure between 31st July 2009 and 29th March 2017. APC was performed on patients who regained weight after RYGB procedure. Upon exploratory analysis of the individual BMI data, the mean BMI decreased slightly during the first 24 months and increased slightly afterwards following the APC intervention. The mean weight was 94.5 ± 18.6 kg and the mean BMI was 34.0 kg/m2 at APC. Where data were available, the mean of lowest weight was 67.0 ± 23.0 kg and the mean of lowest BMI was 24.1 kg/m2 following gastric bypass. The mean weight loss was 6.5, 7.7, and 8.3 kg at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively, and the changes in weight over time was statistically significant (p < 0.0001). Multi-level for change model showed the low body mass index (BMI) group (BMI < 30 kg/m2) to have greater TWL than the high BMI (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) group at 6, 12, and 24 months. In the low BMI group, the mean TWL was 4.7, 6.1, 6.9, and 2.4%, at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively. In the high BMI group, the mean TWL was 7.5, 10.4, 13.4, and 3.7%, at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months, respectively. Of the 333 patients in four centers who provided complication information, complications after APC included stenosis (n = 9), GJ ulcer (n = 3), vomiting (n = 3), GJ leakage (n = 2), and melena (n = 1). APC can be useful in reducing the regained weight after RYGB, and patients showed 6–10% total weight loss at 12 months. Randomized trials would be needed to validate the findings.

Developing institutions for cancer care in low-income and middle-income countries: from cancer units to comprehensive cancer centres.

Abstract: Global cancer centres operate across different sizes, scales, and ecosystems. Understanding the essential aspects of the creation, organisation, accreditation, and activities within these settings is crucial for developing an affordable, equitable, and quality cancer care, research, and education system. Robust guidelines are scarce for cancer units, cancer centres, and comprehensive cancer centres in low-income and middle-income countries. However, some robust examples of the delivery of complex cancer care in centres in emerging economies are available. Although it is impossible to create an optimal system to fit the unique needs of all countries for the delivery of cancer care, we summarise what has been published about the development and management of cancer centres in low-income and middle-income countries so far and highlight the need for clinical and political leadership.

Animal models for colorectal cancer

Abstract: Introduction: Colorectal cancer is a very frequent sort of neoplasm among the population, with a high mortality rate. It develops from an association of genetic and environmental factors, and it is related to multiple cell signaling pathways. Cell cultures and animal models are used in research to reproduce the process of disease development in humans. Of the existing animal models, the most commonly used are animals with tumors induced by chemical agents and genetically modified animals. Objective: To present and synthesize the main animal models of colorectal carcinogenesis used in the research, comparing its advantages and disadvantages. Method: This literature review was performed through the search for scientific articles over the last 18 years in PubMed and Science Direct databases, by using keywords such as “animal models”, “colorectal carcinogenesis” and “tumor induction”. Results: 1,2-dimethylhydrazine and azoxymethane are carcinogenic agents with high specificity for the small and large intestine regions. Therefore, the two substances are widely used. Concerning the genetically modified animal models, there is a larger number of studies concerning mutations of the APC, p53 and K-ras genes. Animals with the APC gene mutation develop colorectal neoplasms, whereas animals with p53 and K-ras genes mutations are able to potentiate the effects of the APC gene mutation as well as the chemical inducers. Conclusion: Each animal model has advantages and disadvantages, and some are individually efficient as to the induction of carcinogenesis, and in other cases the association of two forms of induction is the best way to obtain representative results of carcinogenesis in humans.

Delayed Light Activation Improves Color Stability of Dual-Cured Resin Cements.

Abstract: Purpose To evaluate the color change caused by post-irradiation conversion (ΔE24h and ΔE8 days) and artificial aging (ΔEAGING) of resin cements light activated through ceramics of different opacities immediately and 6 minutes after manipulating the material. Materials and Methods Resin cement disks (Allcem and LuxaCore) were light activated through ceramics (without ceramic, e.max HT, LT, and MO) immediately and 6 minutes after the manipulation (n = 10). Spectrophotometry was used to evaluate ΔE24h and ΔE8 days after 37˚C-dry-dark-storage for 24 hours and 8 days, and ΔEAGING after 60˚C-water-storage for 24 hours. Data were analyzed with three-way ANOVA and Tukey's HSD (α = 0.05). Results Regarding the post-irradiation color change, significant differences were found between the cements (p < 0.0001), light activation protocols (p = 0.037), and ceramics (p < 0.001). The immediate activation (16.2 ± 0.1) showed lower ΔE values than the delayed activation (16.5 ± 0.1). Ceramics influenced the ΔE values as follows: MO (14.0 ± 1.2) < LT (14.9 ± 1.2) ≈ HT (15.4 ± 1.2) < control (21.2 ± 1.2). Regarding ΔEAGING, significant differences were found between cements (p < 0.001), light activation (p = 0.006), and ceramics (p < 0.001). The delayed activation (8.4 ± 0.1) showed lower values than the immediate activation (8.9 ± 0.1). Ceramic spacers influenced ΔEAGING as follows: control (5.6 ± 0.2) < MO (6.6 ± 0.2) < HT (11.0 ± 0.2) ≈ LT (11.5 ± 0.2). Conclusion The delayed light activation resulted in increased color stability, while the ceramic interposition resulted in lower color stability.

Animal models in metabolic syndrome.

Abstract: Knowledge about animal models for metabolic study is the basis of research in this area. This work aims to review the main animal models used in the study of obesity and metabolic syndrome. For this, we performed a search in the Pubmed database using the terms "animal models", "obesity", "metabolic syndrome" and "bariatric surgery". Several species of animals can be used for the study of metabolic disorders. However, rodents are the most commonly used, both as monogenic models and as diet-induced obesity (DIO) ones. Monogenic animals are the best choice if only one aspect is being evaluated. DIO animals tend to better demonstrate the interaction between disease, environment and genetics. However, they are still not fully effective in providing understanding of all disease mechanisms.

Twenty-year clinical experience with fixed functional appliances.

Abstract: Introduction: Considering the large number of fixed functional appliances, choosing the best device for your patient is not an easy task. Objective: To describe the development of fixed functional appliances as well as our 20-year experience working with them. Methods: Fixed functional appliances are grouped into flexible, rigid and hybrid. They are different appliances, whose action is described here. Four clinical cases will be reported with a view to illustrating the different appliances. Conclusions: Rigid fixed functional appliances provide better skeletal results than flexible and hybrid ones. Flexible and hybrid appliances have similar effects to those produced by Class II elastics. They ultimately correct Class II with dentoalveolar changes. From a biomechanical standpoint, fixed functional appliances are more recommended to treat Class II in dolichofacial patients, in comparison to Class II elastics.

Estudos baseados na prática: possibilidades metodológicas para pesquisas em estudos organizacionais

Abstract: No artigo discutimos uma proposta metodologica para estudos baseados na pratica (EBP), visando ampliar as possibilidades teoricas e empiricas no campo dos estudos organizacionais A partir do conceito de pratica de Schatzki, discutimos sua base fenomenologica, bem como a possibilidade de integrar as diversas dimensoes da pratica expressas na diversidade de abordagens, identificadas na revisao de seis edicoes especiais de periodicos europeus sobre o tema Nossa proposicao e a adocao de uma imersao baseada na fenomenologia como metodo e na etnografia como estrategia de pesquisa, que permita a ampliacao do envolvimento do pesquisador na pratica estudada Nos propomos, ainda, a adocao de tecnicas de pesquisa que ampliem a capacidade de descricao, representacao e compreensao dessa pratica, especialmente em estudos de fenomenos sociais como poder, agencia, aprendizagem organizacional entre outros

Effect of different bleaching protocols on whitening efficiency and enamel superficial microhardness.

Abstract: Background Tooth bleaching is a popular aesthetic treatment to modify the color of teeth. Despite the extensive literature concerning the subject, there is still no consensus regarding the application mode of the different bleaching agents and their effect on enamel. Therefore, this study evaluated the influence of different bleaching protocols on whitening efficiency and enamel superficial hardness. Material and methods Bovine enamel fragments were embedded in acrylic resin and wet-sanded to obtain a flat buccal surface. The specimens were then randomly divided into 6 groups (n=10), based on the bleaching material [HP Maxx 35% (35% hydrogen peroxide), HP Blue 35% (35% hydrogen peroxide + Ca) and Whiteness Perfect 10% (10% carbamide peroxide)] and application mode (3 applications of 15 min, 1 application of 45 min, 1 application of 1h30 or 1 application of 3h30). The color and superficial hardness were assessed before and after bleaching. The color was assessed by means of a digital spectrophotometer, using CIELab parameters. Vickers hardness was determined using a load of 200g for 10s. Data were statistically analyzed by one-way ANOVA with repeated measures and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). Results Concerning the color alteration, the groups were similar to each other, except for at-home bleaching protocols, which were statistically different from each other. Similarly, there was a reduction in hardness values comparing the initial and final periods, with lowest final hardness for the at-home bleaching protocol group applied for 3h30. Conclusions It can be concluded that the bleaching protocols influenced the final color and enamel surface hardness, evidencing that lower gel concentrations applied for longer periods promoted greater variation in color and lower final hardness. Key words:Tooth bleaching, roughness, microhardness, in-office, at-home bleaching.

Can multifunctional livelihoods including recreational ecosystem services (RES) and non timber forest products (NTFP) maintain biodiverse forests in the Brazilian Amazon

Abstract: In this paper we use large scale spatially explicit modelling and case study based analyses to assess the links between recreational ecosystem services and the benefits for wellbeing of traditional livelihoods in the Brazilian Amazon. Our results show that, at the scale of the Brazilian Amazon, associations between recreational ecosystem services and extractivist activities of Brazil nut and rubber are very weak with no significant differences regarding Brazil nut (p = 0.61) and rubber (p = 0.41) income across the different tourism development classes. However, qualitative analysis of the case studies reveals that where there are multifunctional livelihoods, recreational ecosystem services are indeed helping to enhance non timber forest product extractivist social values that otherwise would be suppressed by prevailing “cattle ranching” lifestyles. We therefore support innovative ways to make both recreational ecosystem services and non timber forest products extraction not merely a juxtaposition of activities, but integrated into multifunctional livelihoods.

Grinding severity influences the viscosity of cellulose nanofiber (CNF) suspensions and mechanical properties of nanopaper

Abstract: The extent of influence of ultrafine grinding on thermal, structural and rheological properties of cellulose nanofibers and mechanical properties of nanopaper was studied. Bleached Eucalyptus Pulp was used as a raw material for nanocellulose preparation where samples were collected every 5 passages (5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 passages) for analysis. TGA curves suggest thermal stability is decreased after 15 passages as surface area increased in homogenized samples. Moreover, intense defibrillation anticipated thermal degradation and gradually reduced cellulose degradation enthalpy in samples, as evidenced by TGA and DSC curves, thus suggesting fibers size reduction. The XRD crystallinity index does not vary with increased grinding. Finally, suspensions viscosity and nanopaper density showed strong influence over the mechanical properties of nanopapers as evidenced by DMA characterization. Increase in defibrillation resulted in fibers with enhanced tensile strain, toughness, and elastic modulus. However, fiber over-grinding affected this improvement, probably reducing electrostatic repulsion between fibers and resulting in less dense nanopapers.

Early neonatal mortality and risk factors: a case-control study in Paraná State

Abstract: Objective: to analyze the Early Neonatal Mortality risk factors according to the risk stratification criteria of the Guideline of the Rede Mae Paranaense Program. Method: a case-control epidemiological study with secondary data from the Mortality and Live Birth Information System in 2014. The crude analysis was performed by the Odds Ratio association measure, followed by the adjusted analysis, considering risk factors as independent variables, and early neonatal death as dependent variable. Results: were considered as maternal risk factors: absence of partner and miscarriages; neonatal: male, low birth weight, prematurity, Apgar less than seven in the fifth minute, presence of congenital anomaly; and care: up to six prenatal appointments. Conclusion: an innovative study of risk factors for early neonatal death from the Guideline's perspective, a technological management tool for maternal and child health, in search of its qualification and greater sensitivity.

Conhecimento e uso de plantas medicinais por usuários de unidades básicas de saúde na região de colombo, pr

Abstract: Objetivo: Avaliar o conhecimento sobre a utilizacao de plantas medicinais pela populacao frequentadora de Unidades Basicas de Saude (UBS) em Colombo, PR. Material e Metodos: Por meio de um questionario de pesquisa estruturado, foram entrevistados usuarios adultos de ambos os sexos, de quatro UBS, entre os meses de maio e junho de 2016. Resultados: Foram entrevistados 101 usuarios de UBS. Destes, 72,28% utilizavam plantas medicinais, sendo a maioria do sexo feminino, com idade media de 39 anos. A especie vegetal mais citada pela populacao foi a camomila (Matricaria chamomilla L.), seguida da hortela (Mentha spicata L.) e do capim limao (Cymbopogon citratus L.), sendo que a indicacao mais referida pelos entrevistados foi calmante, seguida das afeccoes estomacais. Aproximadamente 70% dos entrevistados que fazem uso de plantas medicinais relataram que cultivam as proprias plantas para consumo e o entendimento da finalidade terapeutica e proveniente do conhecimento familiar. Dentre as 30 plantas citadas pelos entrevistados, grande parte estao listadas na Relacao Nacional de Plantas Medicinais de Interesse ao SUS (RENISUS), no Formulario Fitoterapico e no Memento Fitoterapico da Farmacopeia Brasileira. Conclusao: A partir dos resultados obtidos, conclui-se que os usuarios entendem que as plantas medicinais auxiliam na terapeutica como um complemento no tratamento das mais diversas enfermidades. DESCRITORES: Fitoterapia. Plantas Medicinais. Terapias Complementares. Saude Publica.

Role of HIF-1α and CASPASE-3 in cystogenesis of odontogenic cysts and tumors

Abstract: Odontogenic cysts and tumors are the most relevant lesions that affect the gnathic bones. These lesions have in common the formation of cystic areas and this common feature may suggest involvement of similar mechanisms. The hypoxia inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α), a responsive protein to hypoxia and caspase-3, an irreversible apoptosis marker, may contribute to cyst formation. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the immunoexpression of these proteins in odontogenic cysts and tumors. Twenty cases of ameloblastoma, keratocystic odontogenic tumor (KOT) (n = 20), radicular cyst (RC) (n = 18), dentigerous cyst (DC) (n = 11), calcifying cystic odontogenic tumor (n = 8), and dental follicle (DF) (n = 10) were used to investigate HIF-1α and caspase-3 expression in sequential serial cuts by immunohistochemistry. HIF-1α was overexpressed in RC, DC, and ameloblastoma when compared with DF. The basal and sometimes the lower suprabasal layer showed no or very low expression in DC, KOT, and ameloblastoma, the last also showing strong expression in solid epithelial areas and initial cystic formation regions. Caspase-3 was found to be overexpressed in all lesions, with the highest expression in odontogenic cysts compared to tumors. HIF-1α and caspase-3 were localized in similar areas of the same lesions, especially in the epithelium surrounding cystic formations. This study showed distinct immunoexpression of HIF-1α and caspase-3 in odontogenic cyst and tumors, with higher expression observed in odontogenic cysts. These findings suggest a possible correlation between hypoxia, apoptosis, and cystogenesis, leading to understand the mechanisms responsible to cystic formation in odontogenic lesions.

Mortalidade neonatal precoce e fatores de risco: estudo caso-controle no Paraná

Abstract: Objective: to analyze the Early Neonatal Mortality risk factors according to the risk stratifi cation criteria of the Guideline of the Rede Mãe Paranaense Program. Method: a case-control epidemiological study with secondary data from the Mortality and Live Birth Information System in 2014. The crude analysis was performed by the Odds Ratio association measure, followed by the adjusted analysis, considering risk factors as independent variables, and early neonatal death as dependent variable. Results: were considered as maternal risk factors: absence of partner and miscarriages; neonatal: male, low birth weight, prematurity, Apgar less than seven in the fi fth minute, presence of congenital anomaly; and care: up to six prenatal appointments. Conclusion: an innovative study of risk factors for early neonatal death from the Guideline’s perspective, a technological management tool for maternal and child health, in search of its qualifi cation and greater sensitivity. Descriptors: Early Neonatal Mortality; Risk Factors; Public Health Nursing; Nursing; Information Systems. RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar los factores de riesgo para Mortalidad Neonatal Precoce, según los criterios de estratifi cación de riesgo de la Línea Guía del Programa Rede Mãe Paranaense (Programa Red Madre Paranaense). Método: el estudio epidemiológico, tipo caso-control, con datos secundarios del Sistema de Información de Mortalidad y de Nacidos Vivos, en 2014. Se realizó el análisis bruta por la medida de asociación Odds Ratio, seguida del análisis ajustado, considerando las variables independientes los factores de riesgo, y como dependiente, el óbito neonatal precoz. Resultados: fueron considerados como factores de riesgo materno: ausencia de compañero y pérdidas fetales; neonatales: sexo masculino, bajo peso al nacer, prematuridad, Apgar menor que siete en el quinto minuto, presencia de anomalía congénita; y asistenciales: hasta seis consultas de prenatal. Conclusión: estudio innovador de factores de riesgo al óbito neonatal precoz en la perspectiva de la Línea Guía, instrumento tecnológico de gestión para salud materna e infantil, en la búsqueda de su califi cación y mayor sensibilidad. Descriptores: Mortalidad Neonatal Precoz; Factores de Riesgo; Enfermería en Salud Pública; Enfermería; Sistemas de Información. Mortalidade neonatal precoce e fatores de risco: estudo caso-controle no Paraná Early neonatal mortality and risk factors: a case-control study in Paraná State Mortalidad neonatal precoz y factores de riesgo: estudio caso-control en Paraná PESQUISA Márcia Helena de Souza Freire E-mail: marciahelenafreire@gmail.com AUTOR CORRESPONDENTE

The Necessary Knowledge for Online Education: Teaching and Learning to Produce Knowledge

Abstract: This article presents qualitative research of a case study type, carried out with a group of 27 educators who were strengthening their knowledge of online education to a greater depth. Online education requires pedagogical mediation and the skills and competencies to work with technological resources which promote interaction, collaboration, and co-learning. From this perspective, the following research question was posed: what is the knowledge needed for educators to work in online education in order to promote knowledge production? The data collected was analysed according to Bardin (2011) and the assistance of Atlas Ti software. Based on the research findings it was possible to identify three main knowledge areas for mediating teaching and learning processes designed to produce knowledge, essential for teaching online.

Microbial Communities of the Gut and Nest of the Humus- and Litter-Feeding Termite Procornitermes araujoi (Syntermitinae)

Abstract: The evolution of the symbiotic association with microbes allowed termites to decompose ingested lignocellulose from plant-derived substrates, including herbivore dung and soil humus Representatives of the Syntermitinae (Termitidae) range in their feeding habits from wood and litter-feeding to humus-feeding species However, only limited information is available about their feeding ecology and associated microbial communities Here we conducted a study of the microbial communities associated to the termite Procornitermes araujoi using Illumina sequencing of the 16S and ITS rRNA genes This species has been previously included in different feeding guilds However, most aspects of its feeding ecology are unknown, especially those associated to its symbiotic microbiota Our results showed that the microbial communities of termite guts and nest substrates of P araujoi differed significantly for bacteria and fungi Firmicutes dominated the bacterial gut community of both workers and soldiers, whereas Actinobacteria was found in higher prevalence in the nest walls Sordariomycetes was the most abundant fungal class in both gut and nest samples and distinguish P araujoi from the grass/litter feeding Cornitermes cumulans Our results also showed that diversity of gut bacteria were higher in P araujoi and Silvestritermes euamignathus than in the grass/litter feeders (C cumulans and Syntermes dirus), that could indicate an adaptation of the microbial community of polyphagous termites to the higher complexity of their diets

Terminality and living will: the knowledge of medical students

Abstract: With the intent of increase the autonomy of terminal patients the Federal Council of Medicine was created the Resolution 1.995/2012, which allows the living will. With the objective of evaluate the knowledge of medical students from the first to sixth years about concepts and medical conducts in terminally ill patients, this research was conducted in the form of a cross-sectional study, through the application of a questionnaire, which was completed by 348 medical students. From those, 251 (72,1%) correctly identified concepts about conducts in terminally ill patients, but only 23,5% claimed to know and chose correctly the meaning of the living will. Despite the low knowledge, 80, 1% stated that they intend to respect it when they encounter a terminal patient. Further research is needed, as a way of warning at the current medical curriculum and to bring to light discussions of conducts over terminally ill patients and open ways to the humanized medical practice.

Food Storage by the Savanna Termite Cornitermes cumulans (Syntermitinae): a Strategy to Improve Hemicellulose Digestibility?

Abstract: It has been suggested that food storage inside the nest may offer termites with a nutritional provision during low resource availability. Additionally, feces employed as construction material provide an excellent environment for colonization by microorganisms and, together with the storage of plant material inside the nest, could thus provide some advantage to the termites in terms of lignocellulose decomposition. Here, we conducted for the first time a comprehensive study of the microbial communities associated to a termite exhibiting food storage behavior using Illumina sequencing of the 16S and (ITS2) regions of rRNA genes, together with enzymatic assays and data collected in the field. Cornitermes cumulans (Syntermitinae) stored grass litter in nodules made from feces and saliva located in the nest core. The amount of nodules increased with nest size and isolation, and interestingly, the soluble fraction of extracts from nodules showed a higher activity against hemicellulosic substrates compared to termite guts. Actinobacteria and Sordariales dominated microbial communities of food nodules and nest walls, whereas Spirochetes and Pleosporales dominated gut samples of C. cumulans. Within Syntermitinae, however, gut bacterial assemblages were dissimilar. On the other hand, there is a remarkable convergence of the bacterial community structure of Termitidae nests. Our results suggest that the role of nodules could be related to food storage; however, the higher xylanolytic activity in the nodules and their associated microbiota could also provide C. cumulans with an external source of predigested polysaccharides, which might be advantageous in comparison with litter-feeding termites that do not display food storage behavior.

Effect of Premedication with Anti-inflammatory Drugs on Post-Endodontic Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Abstract: In spite of advances in root canal therapy and better knowledge of pulpal and periapical inflammation, up 40% of endodontic patients report varying degrees of pain. The aim of this present study was to compare the effect of single preoperative dose of ibuprofen or dexamethasone on post-endodontic pain. Sixty volunteers were divided into three groups (n=20 per group): PL, placebo; IB, 400 mg of ibuprofen; and DE, 8 mg of dexamethasone. The primary outcome was the post-endodontic pain intensity measured with a numerical rating scale (4, 8, 12, 24, and 48 h). Secondary outcomes included number of anesthetic cartridges used and consumption of rescue medication. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests. There was no significant difference among groups (p>0.05) considering the pain intensity. Only 37% of IB group patients and 28% of DE group patients used some rescue medication. On the other hand, 74% of PL group patients mentioned the consumption of rescue medication; PL group had a statistically significant difference (p 0.05). Significant differences were not found in the reduction of pain intensity and the number of anesthetic cartridges used. Considering the consumption of rescue medication (secondary outcome), preoperative administration of Ibuprofen or dexamethasone reduces post-endodontic pain and discomfort in comparison with a placebo. Premedication with anti-inflammatory drugs drugs could be contributed to control of the post-endodontic pain, mainly in patients more sensible for pain.