Mosquitoes of eastern Amazonian Ecuador: biodiversity, bionomics and barcodes

Two snapshot surveys to establish the diversity and ecological preferences of mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in the terra firme primary rain forest surrounding the Tiputini Biodiversity Station in the UNESCO Yasuní Biosphere Reserve of eastern Amazonian Ecuador were carried out in November 1998 and May 1999. The mosquito fauna of this region is poorly known; the focus of this study was to obtain high quality link-reared specimens that could be used to unequivocally confirm species level diversity through integrated systematic study of all life stages and DNA sequences. A total of 2,284 specimens were preserved; 1,671 specimens were link-reared with associated immature exuviae, all but 108 of which are slide mounted. This study identified 68 unique taxa belonging to 17 genera and 27 subgenera. Of these, 12 are new to science and 37 comprise new country records. DNA barcodes [658-bp of the mtDNA cytochrome c oxidase ( COI ) I gene] are presented for 58 individuals representing 20 species and nine genera. DNA barcoding proved useful in uncovering and confirming new species and we advocate an integrated systematics approach to biodiversity studies in future. Associated bionomics of all species collected are discussed. An updated systematic checklist of the mosquitoes of Ecuador (n = 179) is presented for the first time in 60 years.

Evaluation of patients with stroke monitored by home care programs

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the patient with a stroke in home treatment, investigating physical capacity, mental status and anthropometric analysis. This was a cross-sectional study conducted in Fortaleza/CE, from January to April of 2010. Sixty-one individuals monitored by a home care program of three tertiary hospitals were investigated, through interviews and the application of scales. The majority of individuals encountered were female (59%), elderly, bedridden, with a low educational level, a history of other stroke, a high degree of dependence for basic (73.8%) and instrumental (80.3 %) activities of daily living, and a low cognitive level (95.1%). Individuals also presented with tracheostomy, gastric feeding and urinary catheter, difficulty hearing, speaking, chewing, swallowing, and those making daily use of various medications. It was concluded that home care by nurses is an alternative for care of those individuals with a stroke.

Effectiveness of heparin versus 0.9% saline solution in maintaining the permeability of central venous catheters: a systematic review

Abstract OBJECTIVE Determining which is the most effective solution (heparin flush compared to 0.9% saline flush) for reducing the risk of occlusions in central venous catheters (CVC) in adults. METHOD The systematic review followed the principles proposed by the Cochrane Handbook; critical analysis, extraction and synthesis of data were performed by two independent researchers; statistical analysis was performed using the RevMan program 5.2.8. RESULTS Eight randomized controlled trials and one cohort study were included and the results of the meta-analysis showed no difference (RR=0.68, 95% CI=0.41-1.10; p=0.12). Analysis by subgroups showed that there was no difference in fully deployed CVC (RR=1.09, CI 95%=0.53-2.22;p=0.82); Multi-Lumen CVC showed beneficial effects in the heparin group (RR=0.53, CI 95%=0.29-0.95; p=0.03); in Double-Lumen CVC for hemodialysis (RR=1.18, CI 95%=0.08-17.82;p=0.90) and Peripherally inserted CVC (RR=0.14, CI 95%=0.01-2.60; p=0.19) also showed no difference. CONCLUSION Saline solution is sufficient for maintaining patency of the central venous catheter, preventing the risks associated with heparin administration.

Acalasia do esôfago: miotomia com transiluminação

Laparoscopic techniques have provided a new dimension to correct functional disorders of the esophagus, which has stimulated some investigators to recently report the use of laparoscopic cardiomyotomy in the treatment of esophageal achalasia. Now, a new instrument has been added to the current laparoscopic technique to offer a safer and easier method to proceed complete myotomy. After the dissection of the esophagogastric junction, a special catheter is introduced reaching the stomach. lt has an illuminated 10 cm extremity connected to a light source. lts withdrawal allows to visualize every muscle circular fiber by transillumination withan improved view provide by the laparoscopic optic system lens. This condition modifies the operative surgeon s attitude offering a better controlled situation over the procedure. The use of transillumination o fthe esophagogastric junction provides a good identification of the mucosa e submucosa avoiding the risk of esophageal perforation. It also helps to perform a complete myotomy preventing the ocurrence of persistent disphagia in the postoperative period. Cardiomyotomy with parcial fundoplication is possible by videolaparoscopic approach, now made easier with transillumination. This technique is safe and the functional results are similar to those observed in the literature for conventional open procedures, with the obvious advantages of the minimally invasive approach.

Tratamento laparoscópico dos cateteres de diálise peritoneal obstruídos

The success of peritoneal dialysis in the treatment of patients with chronic renal failure depends on a proper performance of peritoneal catheter. This study shows the experience from the Service of Surgery from Departament of Medicine of State University of Maringá and the Service of Nephrology from Maria Auxiliadora Hospital, Maringá, in the laparoscopic approach of catheters with obstruction.

Tratamento endovascular de dissecção crônica toracoabdominal complicada com aneurisma torácico, mediante implante de endoprótese vascular

Our objective is to report a case of a patient with a descending thoracic aortic aneurysm and chronic aortic dissection, who was submitted to an endovascular treatment. A 68-year-old male with coronary artery disease and hypertension, with no history of trauma, diabetes or smoking. He had myocardial infarction ten years ago. Under general anesthesia, the left femoral artery was surgically exposed and the left braquial artery was catheterized with a "pigtail" catheter, under Seldinger technique. The proximal 46mm/Æ and distal 34mm/Æ stent-graft was placed just distal to the origen of the left subclavian artery. Control arteriography showed that the lesion was completely excluded. The patient was discharged seven days after the surgery, when a computed tomographic control, was performed showing a sustained aneurysm exclusion and a satisfactory endovascular position.

Banda gástrica ajustável laparoscópica: alternativa técnica

In these paper we are presenting a technical alternative to laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding. From January 1999 to April 2000, 60 patients with mean body mass index (BMI) of 40,7 kg/m2 underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding. The new technique is performed in two steps. In the first step, an isolation instrument (laparoscopic finger) is inserted through the lesser sac, next to the junction of diaphragmatic crura, including the lesser omentum in order to pull the band catheter. The second step separates the lesser omentum from the right side of the stomach.There was no mortality and the morbidity was 11,6% (1 slippage of the band and 6 trocar port seroma). The new technique was performed in all patients with no conversion to open procedure. We didn't have respiratory complications. This technical alternative is safe and easily performed, helping to prevent transoperative perforations.

Rotura gástrica por barotrauma

Barogenic rupture of the stomach is a rare complication following cardiopulmonary resuscitation, administration of nasal oxygen by catheter and diving accidents. We report a case of gastric barotrauma following oroesophageal intubation. In most cases, the tears occur along the lesser curvature, what have been already attributed to Laplace's formula and, more recently, to morphological features of the stomach.

Pectus excavatum: abordagem terapêutica

The pectus excavatum treatment has two different approaches: non-surgical techniques (modified dynamic thoracic compressor, exercises and the vacuum bell) or surgical techniques (silastic or solid silicone implant, open surgical repair like sternochondroplasty and minimally invasive repair). The introduction of Nuss procedure improved the pectus excavatum treatment, but its low acceptance was due to the high complication rate (e.g. cardiac perfuration). The thoracoscopy use for bar mediastinal passage reduced the complication rate. In comparison with sternochondroplasty, the Nuss procedure has smaller incision, less blood loss and less operative time. However, it has more reoperations, complications, longer hospital stay and more readmission rates, more time of thoracic epidural catheter for postoperative analgesia and more need for analgesic after being discharged. Although Nuss procedure has been used in children, patients under ten years must be only observed. The Nuss procedure is applicable to moderate or light symmetrical pectus excavatum, without costal protrusion, in young and adolescents patients. Furthermore, the sternochondroplasty is applicable to severe or asymmetric pectus excavatum, with or without inferior costal protrusion. Therefore, Nuss procedure and sternocondroplasty are not antagonistic procedures, and they must be used in accordance with a treatment organogram and the technique choice must be by functional and aesthetic outcome.

Arthroscopic treatment of refractory adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the results of arthroscopic treatment of refractory adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder associated as for improved range of motion after a minimum follow up of six years. METHODS: from August 2002 to December 2004, ten patients with adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder resistant to conservative treatment underwent arthroscopic surgery. One interscalene catheter was placed for postoperative analgesia before the procedure. All were in Phase II, with a minimum follow up of two years. The mean age was 52.9 years (39-66), predominantly female (90%), six on the left shoulder. The time between onset of symptoms and surgical treatment ranged from six to 20 months. Four adhesive capsulitis were found to be primary (40%) and six secondary (60%). RESULTS: the preoperative mean of active anterior elevation was 92°, of external rotation was 10.5° of the L5 level internal rotation; the postoperative ones were 149°, 40° and T12 level, respectively. Therefore, the average gain was 57° for the anterior elevation, 29.5° for external rotation in six spinous processes. There was a significant difference in movements' gains between the pre and post-operative periods (p<0.001). By the Constant Score (range of motion), there was an increase of 13.8 (average pre) to 32 points (average post). CONCLUSION: the arthroscopic treatment proved effective in refractory adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder resistant to conservative treatment, improving the range of joint movements of patients evaluated after a minimum follow up of six years.

Implementation of a perioperative management protocol for patients undergoing orthopedic surgery

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the initial results after the implementation of perioperative protocol in patients over 60 years of age undergoing surgical treatment for femur fractures.METHODS: We conducted a prospective study of patients older than 60 years who were hospitalized with femur fracture. They were operated under spinal anesthesia and analgesia by lumbar plexus blockade. Data evaluation was performed before arrival in the operating room during surgery, in the post-anesthesia recovery room and in the ward the next morning of the operation.RESULTS: 105 patients underwent various types of surgical corrections of the femur. The hospital stay ranged from three to 86 days. Fasting ranged from 9h15min to 19h30mn. Hypotension occurred in 5.7%. The duration of motor blockade ranged from 1h45min to 5h30imn. Maltodextrin feeding ranged from 50min to 3h45min and the time spent in the post-anesthetic care unit ranged from 50 minutes to 4 hours. Onset of oral intake in the ward ranged from 4hto 8h15min. The duration of anesthesia ranged from 14 to 33 hours. No patient required a urinary catheter, nor was transferred to the ICU. All patients were able to be discharged on the first postoperative day.CONCLUSION: The use of a protocol to accelerate the postoperative period may reduce the fasting time, length of hospital stay and provide faster i discharge n elderly patients with femur fractures.

Urodinâmica convencional versus cistometria simplificada para caracterização da incontinência urinária feminina

OBJETIVO: avaliar a concordância dos diferentes parâmetros urodinâmicos comparados à cistometria simplificada, permitindo uma diminuição na relação custo-benefício no diagnóstico da incontinência urinária de esforço (IUE) na mulher. MÉTODOS: foram coletadas e avaliadas retrospectivamente as informações contidas dos prontuários de trinta pacientes acompanhadas, no período de janeiro de 2000 a março de 2001. Todas foram submetidas a exame físico geral e ginecológico. O estudo urodinâmico foi realizado pela técnica convencional, utilizando-se aparelho Dynograph Recorder R-611. A cistometria simplificada foi realizada com auxílio de um equipo em "Y" de PVC (pressão venosa central), conectado a um sonda de Foley 14 F, que permitia tanto a infusão de soro fisiológico como a captação da pressão intra-vesical. Foram analisados os parâmetros: volume residual, capacidade vesical, complacência, presença de contrações involuntárias do detrusor e perdas urinárias aos esforços. Para determinação da proporção de concordância entre os métodos foram utilizados o teste de concordância de Pearson e o teste de Wilcoxon, para amostras relacionadas. RESULTADOS: a média de idade foi de 50 anos, com extremos variando de 28 a 70 anos. O índice de concordância entre os estudos, na demonstração das perdas urinárias aos esforços, foi de 67%. Para a detecção das contrações involuntárias do detrusor, a proporção de concordância foi de 90%. A média do volume residual encontrado na cistometria simplificada foi de 16,8 ml contra 2 ml da urodinâmica convencional, com diferença significativa (p < 0,01). A média de capacidade vesical máxima no estudo urodinâmico foi de 440,5 ml, enquanto que, na cistometria simplificada, foi de 387 ml (p < 0,05). A complacência vesical foi, em média, significativamente maior na cistometria simplificada (43,0 ml/cmH2O) quando comparada ao estudo urodinâmico (31,5 ml/cmH2O), com p < 0,01. CONCLUSÃO: Avaliações preliminares sugerem que a propedêutica uroginecológica associada à cistometria simplificada é uma opção a ser considerada na avaliação clínica e pré-operatória de pacientes com IUE em substituição à urodinâmica convencional, particularmente onde esta última não se encontra disponível. A cistometria simplificada é um exame acessível que é capaz de detectar contrações involuntárias do detrusor, assim como identificar perdas urinárias com relativa sensibilidade, proporcionando ao examinador noções fidedignas do comportamento vesical.

Método mecânico de indução do parto em gestantes de alto risco com cesariana anterior

OBJETIVO: Descrever os desfechos materno-fetais com o uso da sonda de Foley para indução do trabalho de parto em gestantes de alto risco com cesariana anterior.MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo de intervenção e descritivo, no período de novembro de 2013 a junho de 2014. Foram incluídas 39 gestantes a termo, com feto vivo, apresentação cefálica, peso estimado <4.000 g, cesariana prévia, com indicação de indução do trabalho de parto, escore de Bishop ≤6 e índice de líquido amniótico >5 cm. A sonda de Foley nº 16F foi introduzida, por no máximo 24 horas, sendo considerado satisfatória quando a paciente entrou em trabalho de parto nas primeiras 24 horas.RESULTADOS: O trabalho de parto foi induzido satisfatoriamente em 79,5% das gestantes. Nove mulheres evoluíram para parto vaginal (23,1%), com uma frequência de 18% de partos vaginais ocorridos dentro de 24 horas. As principais indicações da indução do parto foram as síndromes hipertensivas (75%). As médias dos intervalos entre a colocação da sonda de Foley e o início do trabalho de parto e o parto foram de 8,7±7,1 e 14,7±9,8 horas, respectivamente. A eliminação de mecônio foi observada em 2 pacientes e o escore de Apgar <7 no primeiro minuto foi observado em 5 recém-nascidos (12,8%).CONCLUSÕES: A sonda de Foley é uma alternativa para indução do trabalho de parto em gestantes com cesariana anterior, apesar da baixa taxa de parto vaginal.

Lactated Ringer's solution or 0.9% sodium chloride as fluid therapy in pigeons (Columba livia) submitted to humerus osteosynthesis

The study aimed to compare the effects of intraosseous infusion of lactated Ringer's and 0.9% sodium chloride solutions on the electrolytes and acid-base balance in pigeons submitted to humerus osteosynthesis. Eighteen pigeons were undergoing to isoflurane anesthesia by an avalvular circuit system. They were randomly assigned into two groups (n=9) receiving lactated Ringer's solution (LR) or 0.9% sodium chloride (SC), in a continuous infusion rate of 20mL/kg/h, by using an intraosseous catheter into the tibiotarsus during 60-minute anesthetic procedure. Heart rate (HR), and respiratory rate (RR) were measured every 10 min. Venous blood samples were collected at 0, 30 and 60 minutes to analyze blood pH, PvCO2, HCO3 -, Na+ and K+. Blood gases and electrolytes showed respiratory acidosis in both groups during induction, under physical restraint. This acidosis was evidenced by a decrease of pH since 0 min, associated with a compensatory response, observed by increasing of HCO3 - concentration, at 30 and 60 min. It was not observed any changes on Na+ and K+ serum concentrations. According to the results, there is no reason for choosing one of the two solutions, and it could be concluded that both fluid therapy solutions do not promote any impact on acid-base balance and electrolyte concentrations in pigeons submitted to humerus osteosynthesis.

Atherosclerosis and acute arterial thrombosis in rabbits: a model using balloon desendothelization without dietary intervention

Acute thrombosis can be induced in rabbits by a triggering protocol using Russell's viper venom and histamine given after 8 months of a 1% cholesterol diet and balloon desendothelization. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that aortic desendothelization performed 4 months before the triggering protocol without a high cholesterol diet is a highly effective and less expensive way of producing arterial atherosclerosis and thrombosis. Nineteen male New Zealand white rabbits on a normal diet were studied. The control group (N = 9) received no intervention during the 4-month observation period, while the other group (N = 10) was submitted to aortic balloon desendothelization using a 4F Fogarty catheter. At the end of this period, all animals were killed 48 h after receiving the first dose of the triggering treatment. Eight of 10 rabbits (80%) in the balloon-trauma group presented platelet-rich arterial thrombosis while none of the animals in the control group had thrombus formation (P<0.01). Thus, this model, using balloon desendothelization without dietary manipulation, induces arterial atherosclerosis and thrombosis and may provide possibilities to test new therapeutic approaches