Laser-irradiating infrared attenuated total reflection spectroscopy of articular cartilage: Potential and challenges for diagnosing osteoarthritis.

Objective: A prototype infrared attenuated total reflection (IR-ATR) laser spectroscopic system designed for in vivo classification of human cartilage tissue according to its histological health status during arthroscopic surgery is presented. Prior to real-world in vivo applications, this so-called osteoarthritis (OA) scanner has been tested at in vitro conditions revealing the challenges associated with complex sample matrices and the accordingly obtained sparse spectral datasets. Methods: In vitro studies on human knee cartilage samples at different contact pressures (i.e., 0.2-0.5 â€‹MPa) allowed recording cartilage degeneration characteristic IR signatures comparable to in vivo conditions with high temporal resolution. Afterwards, the cartilage samples were assessed based on the clinically acknowledged osteoarthritis cartilage histopathology assessment (OARSI) system and correlated with the obtained sparse IR data. Results: Amide and carbohydrate signal behavior was observed to be almost identical between the obtained sparse IR data and previously measured FTIR data used for sparse partial least squares discriminant analysis (SPLSDA) to identify the spectral regions relevant to cartilage condition. Contact pressures between 0.3 and 0.4 â€‹MPa seem to provide the best sparse IR spectra for cylindrical (d â€‹= â€‹3 â€‹mm) probe tips. Conclusion: Laser-irradiating IR-ATR spectroscopy is a promising analytical technique for future arthroscopic applications to differentiate healthy and osteoarthritic cartilage tissue. However, this study also revealed that the flexible connection between the laser-based analyzer and the arthroscopic ATR-probe via IR-transparent fiberoptic cables may affect the robustness of the obtained IR data and requires further improvements.

Laparoscopic rectal resection without epidural catheters-does it work?

PURPOSE: Placement of an epidural catheter (EC) in colorectal resections is still recommended as a valid measure to achieve a low level of pain. However, EC is associated with increased invasiveness and with an increased risk of bladder emptying disorders and a decrease in blood pressure, which all relate to delayed mobilization. Preliminary data shows that EC placement may not be necessary for laparoscopic colon resections. The aim of this prospective study was to investigate how the omission of EC placement influences short-term postoperative outcomes in laparoscopic rectal resections. METHODS: All laparoscopic rectal resections occurring between 2013 and 2020 were prospectively examined. Resections from January 2013 to February 2018 (group A) were compared with resections from March 2018 to December 2020 (group B; after the internal change of the perioperative pain regime). In addition to EC placement, the other target parameters of our study were urinary catheter placement during the inpatient stay, postoperative pain > 3 days on a numerical rating scale (NRS), mobilization in the first 5 postoperative days, time until the first postoperative bowel movement, postoperative complications according to Clavien-Dindo, intermediate care unit stay (IMC stay) in days, and hospital length of stay in days. RESULTS: In the entire study period, 221 laparoscopic rectal resections were performed: 122 in group A and 99 resections in group B. The frequency of EC placement and urinary catheter placement, postoperative IMC stay, and hospital length of stay was significantly lower in group B (p < 0.05). The postoperative mobilization of patients in group B was possible more quickly. There were no differences in the level of pain, time until the first postoperative bowel movement, and postoperative complications according to Clavien-Dindo. CONCLUSION: Omission of EC placement in laparoscopic rectal resections led to faster mobilization, a shorter IMC stay, and a shorter hospital stay without increasing the pain level. Postoperative complications did not change when an EC was not placed. Therefore, routine EC placement in laparoscopic rectal resections is unnecessary.

Evaluating potential delays and outcomes of patients undergoing surgical resection for locally advanced and recurrent colorectal cancer during a pandemic.

INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a significant disruption of colorectal cancer (CRC) care pathways. This study evaluates the management and outcomes of patients with primary locally advanced or recurrent CRC during the pandemic in a single tertiary referral centre. METHODS: Patients undergoing elective surgery for advanced or recurrent CRC with curative intent between March 2020 and March 2021 were identified. Following first multidisciplinary team discussion patients were broadly classified into two groups: straight to surgery (n=22, 45%) or neoadjuvant therapy followed by surgery (n=27, 55%). Primary outcome was COVID-19-related complication rate. RESULTS: Forty-nine patients with a median age of 66 years (interquartile range: 54-73) were included. No patients developed a COVID-19 infection or related complication during hospital admission. Significant delays were identified in the treatment pathway of patients in the straight to surgery group, mostly due to delays in referral from external centres. Nine of 22 patients in the straight to surgery group had evidence of tumour progression compared with 3 of 27 in the neoadjuvant group (p=0.015839). Seven of 27 patients in the neoadjuvant group showed evidence of tumour regression. During the study, surgical waiting times were reduced, and more operations were performed during the second wave of COVID-19. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that it is possible to mitigate the risks of COVID-19-related complications in patients undergoing complex surgery for locally advanced and recurrent CRC. Delay in surgical intervention is associated with tumour progression, particularly in patients who may not have neoadjuvant therapy. Efforts should be made to prioritise resources for patients requiring time-sensitive surgery for advanced and recurrent CRC.

[Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome]. / Síndrome miasteniforme de Lambert-Eaton.

INTRODUCTION: Early diagnosis based on clinical findings, neurophysiological studies and serum antibody titres allows early initiation of symptomatic treatment and oncological screening. Reports of patients with LEMS in Latin America are scarce. AIM: This article aims to describe the characteristics of patients with LEMS from a private centre in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and to compare them with those of other series that have been published. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The medical records of 13 patients with LEMS with clinical findings, compatible electromyogram and/or positive antibodies were reviewed. Follow-up was performed until associated neoplasia was ruled out or confirmed according to the recommended algorithms. RESULTS: Four patients were diagnosed with T-LEMS, two of them with small-cell lung carcinoma. Of the nine patients with NT-LEMS, five had a DELTA-P score of 3 and 4. Nine patients presented with the classic clinical triad from the onset of the disease. All patients had electromyogram findings compatible with presynaptic neuromuscular plaque defect. Of the total, 70% improved symptomatically with pyridostigmine. CONCLUSIONS: The clinical findings, together with compatible neurophysiological studies, are sufficient for the diagnosis of LEMS. The relationship between the DELTA-P score and the risk of small-cell lung carcinoma could not be replicated. Symptomatic treatment with pyridostigmine represents an effective therapeutic alternative.

TITLE: Síndrome miasteniforme de Lambert-Eaton.Introducción. El síndrome miasteniforme de Lambert-Eaton (LEMS) es una patología paraneoplásica (T-LEMS) o idiopática autoinmunitaria (NT-LEMS) ocasionada por autoanticuerpos contra los canales de calcio dependientes del voltaje presinápticos de la unión neuromuscular. El 60% de los T-LEMS se asocia a carcinoma de pulmón de células pequeñas. Una puntuación Dutch-English LEMS Tumor Association Prediction (DELTA-P) mayor de 3 denota un riesgo elevado de dicha asociación. El diagnóstico precoz fundado en los hallazgos clínicos, estudios neurofisiológicos y dosificación de títulos de anticuerpos en el suero permite iniciar tempranamente el tratamiento sintomático y la búsqueda oncológica. Son escasos los informes de pacientes con LEMS en Latinoamérica. Objetivo. Describir las características de pacientes con LEMS de un centro privado de Buenos Aires, Argentina, y compararlas con las de otras series publicadas. Pacientes y métodos. Se revisaron historias clínicas de 13 pacientes con LEMS con hallazgos clínicos, electromiograma compatible y/o anticuerpos positivos. Se realizó seguimiento hasta descartar o confirmar una neoplasia asociada de acuerdo con los algoritmos recomendados. Resultados. Cuatro pacientes presentaron diagnóstico de T-LEMS, dos de ellos con carcinoma de pulmón de células pequeñas. De los nueve pacientes con NT-LEMS, cinco presentaron una puntuación DELTA-P de 3 y 4. Nueve pacientes presentaron la tríada clínica clásica desde el inicio. Todos los pacientes presentaron en el electromiograma hallazgos compatibles con defecto de placa neuromuscular presináptico. El 70% mejoró sintomáticamente con piridostigmina. Conclusiones. Los hallazgos clínicos, junto con los estudios neurofisiológicos compatibles, resultan suficientes para el diagnóstico de LEMS. No pudo replicarse la relación entre puntuación DELTA-P y riesgo de carcinoma de pulmón de células pequeñas. El tratamiento sintomático con piridostigmina representa una alternativa terapéutica eficaz.

Efficacy and safety of lipegfilgrastim versus pegfilgrastim in elderly patients with aggressive B cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL): results of the randomized, open-label, non-inferiority AVOID neutropenia study.

BACKGROUND: Lipegfilgrastim has been shown to be non-inferior to pegfilgrastim for reduction of the duration of severe neutropenia (DSN) in breast cancer patients. This open-label, non-inferiority study assessed the efficacy and safety of lipegfilgrastim versus pegfilgrastim in elderly patients with aggressive B cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) at high risk for chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. PATIENT AND METHODS: One hundred and one patients (median age, 75 years) were randomized to lipegfilgrastim or pegfilgrastim (6 mg/cycle) during six cycles of R-CHOP21. RESULTS: Lipegfilgrastim was non-inferior to pegfilgrastim for the primary efficacy endpoint, reduction of DSN in cycle 1. In the per-protocol population, mean (standard deviation) DSN was 0.8 (0.92) and 0.9 (1.11) days in the two groups, respectively; the adjusted mean difference between groups was - 0.3 days (95% confidence interval, - 0.70 to 0.19). Non-inferiority was also demonstrated in the intent-to-treat population. The incidence of severe neutropenia in cycle 1 was 51% (21/41) in the lipegfilgrastim group and 52% (23/44) in the pegfilgrastim group. Very severe neutropenia (ANC < 0.1 × 109/L) in cycle 1 was reported by 5 (12%) patients in the lipegfilgrastim group and 8 (18%) patients in the pegfilgrastim group. However, over all cycles, febrile neutropenia (strict definition) was reported by only 1 (2%) patient in each treatment group (during cycle 1 in the lipegfilgrastim group and cycle 6 in the pegfilgrastim group). The mean time to absolute neutrophil count recovery (defined as ≥ 2.0 × 109/L) was 8.3 and 9.4 days in the two groups, respectively. Serious adverse events occurred in 46% of patients in each group; none were considered treatment-related. Eight patients died during the study (2 in the lipegfilgrastim group, 5 in the pegfilgrastim group, and 1 who died before starting study treatment). No deaths occurred during the treatment period, and all were considered to be related to the underlying disease. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows lipegfilgrastim to be non-inferior to pegfilgrastim for the reduction of DSN in elderly patients with aggressive B cell NHL receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy, with a comparable safety profile. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02044276; EudraCT number 2013-001284-23.

Differential diagnosis in acute inflammatory myelitis.

INTRODUCTION: Establishing differential diagnosis between different inflammatory causes of acute transverse myelitis (ATM) can be difficult. The objective of this study was to see which clinical, imaging or laboratory findings best contribute to confirm ATM etiology. METHODS: We reviewed clinical history, MRI images, CSF and serum laboratory tests in a retrospective study of patients presenting ATM. Univariate and multivariate multinomial logistic regression analysis was performed for each of the items listed above. RESULTS: One hundred and seventy-two patients were analyzed in the study: 68 with multiple sclerosis (MS), 67 presenting idiopathic myelitis (IM; 23 of which were recurrent), 21 who developed positive systemic-antibodies associated myelitis (SAb-M) and 16 with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD). The following factors were associated with increased risk of developing MS: lower values in the modified Rankin scale at admission; positive oligoclonal bands (OCB); higher spinal cord lesion load; presence of brain demyelinating lesions; and disease recurrence. Longitudinally extended (LE) lesions, brain demyelinating lesions, and recurrences also contributed to final diagnosis of NMOSD. Multivariate multinomial logistic regression analysis showed presence of LE lesions increased risk of NMOSD and recurrence of ATM. Whereas, brain demyelinating lesions, and presence of OCB increased risk of MS. CONCLUSIONS: ATM etiology may be clarified on the basis of spinal cord and brain MRI findings, together with CSF biochemistry and serum laboratory test results, allowing more timely and exact diagnosis as well as specific therapy for cases of uncertain origin.

First record of Conostigmus Dahlbom, 1858 (Hymenoptera: Megaspilidae) from Brazil and description of the female of Conostigmus binasutus Dessart & Cancemi, 1986 / Primeiro registro de Conostigmus Dahlbom, 1858 (Hymenoptera: Megaspilidae) para o Brasil e descrição da fêmea de Conostigmus binasutus Dessart & Cancemi, 1986

Abstract Conostigmus Dahlbom, 1858 (Hymenoptera: Megaspilidae) is reported for the first time from Brazil. Here, we provide a diagnosis of Conostigmus binasutus Dessart & Cancemi, 1986 and the description and illustration of the female, previously unknown. The analyzed material was collected utilizing Malaise traps, in Manaus, Amazon, Brazil and deposited at the Invertebrate collection of INPA (Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia) of Manaus. A identification key and distribution map to the Neotropical species of Conostigmus is provided.

Resumo Conostigmus Dahlbom, 1858 (Hymenoptera: Megaspilidae) é relatado pela primeira vez no Brasil. Aqui, nós fornecemos a diagnose de Conostigmus binasutus Dessart & Cancemi, 1986 e descrição e ilustração da fêmea, desconhecida anteriormente. O material analisado foi coletado utilizando armadilha Malaise, em Manaus, Amazonas, Brasil, e está depositado na Coleção de invertebrados do INPA (Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia) de Manaus. Além disso, é apresentada uma chave de identificação e mapa de distribuição das espécies Neotropicais de Conostigmus.

Chemotaxic Responses of Anisopteromalus calandrae (Howard) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) to Odors of Larvae, Pupae, and the Diet of Lasioderma serricorne (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Ptinidae).

Many hymenopteran parasitoids are known as biocontrol agents, such as Anisopteromalus calandrae (Howard) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae), which is known to parasitize larvae and pupae of coleopteran pests including Lasioderma serricorne (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Ptinidae). The success of these parasitoids is related to their searching ability, which is mediated through chemical stimuli of the habitat, food, and the progeny of the host itself. This study aimed to assess the chemotaxic responses of A. calandrae comparing the reproductive state of the insects and the experience of wasp females, to different development stages (larvae and pupae) and the presence or absence of the host diet. The chemotaxic responses of A. calandrae individuals at 2 to 4 days old were assessed in a "Y" type olfactometer. Virgin and paired females (without and with previous experience of parasitism) were exposed to larvae of last instar contrasted with pupae and to the diet of L. serricorne. Both virgin and mated males were tested only for diet. Virgin females showed a preference for the diet in contrast to the larvae and to the pupae in contrast to the diet. Paired females without experience choose larvae over diet and made no distinction between pupae and diet. Experienced mated females showed preference for the host to which it had access before, instead of any other alternative option, indicating that there may be changes in the preference through learning.

[Elective treatment of inguinal hernia in university surgery-an economic challenge]. / Elektive Versorgung von Leistenhernien in der universitären Chirurgie ­ eine ökonomische Herausforderung.

INTRODUCTION: Elective and emergency inguinal hernia surgery is a central task for general and abdominal surgeons. As a standard procedure it is regarded as having a relatively low income in the German diagnosis-related groups (DRG) system. This can lead to an economic imbalance, especially in a cost-intensive environment of a university hospital. The aim of this analysis was to investigate the influence of clinical factors on costs and the contribution margin as well as the overall economic evaluation of elective inguinal hernia surgery at a university hospital. MATERIAL AND METHODS: All patients undergoing elective inguinal hernia surgery at two locations of the Charité University Medicine Berlin in 2014 and 2015 were included in the analysis. The influence of clinical, patient and surgical factors on the economic outcome of the cases was evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 419 patients were included, mostly after a Lichtenstein operation (44.9%) and laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) surgery (53.9%). The greatest impact on the economic outcome was the occurrence of postoperative complications. Also, a patient clinical complexity level (PCCL) value of >1, more than 8 encoded secondary diagnoses and a duration of hospital stay of less than 2 days had a significantly negative impact on the contribution margin. Overall, elective inguinal hernia surgery led to a negative contribution margin of €â€¯651 per case. CONCLUSION: Elective inguinal hernia surgery in the environment of a university hospital has a high financial deficit; however, since a complete discontinuation of this treatment is not an alternative multifactorial approaches are required to improve the economic outcome.

Strong impact of MammaPrint and BluePrint on treatment decisions in luminal early breast cancer: results of the WSG-PRIMe study.

PURPOSE: The WSG-PRIMe Study prospectively evaluated the impact of the 70-gene signature MammaPrint® (MP) and the 80-gene molecular subtyping assay BluePrint® on clinical therapy decisions in luminal early breast cancer. METHODS: 452 hormone receptor (HR)-positive and HER2-negative patients were recruited (N0, N1). Physicians provided initial therapy recommendations based on clinicopathological factors. After prospective risk classification by MammaPrint/BluePrint was revealed, post-test treatment recommendations and actual treatment were recorded. Decisional Conflict and anxiety were measured by questionnaires. RESULTS: Post-test switch (in chemotherapy (CT) recommendation) occurred in 29.1% of cases. Overall, physician adherence to MP risk assessment was 92.3% for low-risk and 94.3% for high-risk MP scores. Adherence was remarkably high in "discordant" groups: 74.7% of physicians initially recommending CT switched to CT omission following low-risk MP scores; conversely, 88.9% of physicians initially recommending CT omission switched to CT recommendations following high-risk MP scores. Most patients (99.2%) recommended to forgo CT post-test and 21.3% of patients with post-test CT recommendations did not undergo CT; among MP low-risk patients with pre-test and post-test CT recommendations, 40% did not actually undergo CT. Luminal subtype assessment by BluePrint was discordant with IHC assessment in 34% of patients. Patients' State Anxiety scores improved significantly overall, particularly in MP low-risk patients. Trait Anxiety scores increased slightly in MP high risk and decreased slightly in MP low-risk patients. CONCLUSIONS: MammaPrint and BluePrint test results strongly impacted physicians' therapy decisions in luminal EBC with up to three involved lymph nodes. The high adherence to genetically determined risk assessment represents a key prerequisite for achieving a personalized cost-effective approach to disease management of early breast cancer.

Clinical and imaging features distinguishing Susac syndrome from primary angiitis of the central nervous system.

INTRODUCTION: To assess clinical and/or imaging features useful to distinguish between Susac syndrome (SuS) and primary angiitis of central nervous system (PACNS). METHODS: Multicenter retrospective analysis of two cohorts of Argentine patients diagnosed with SuS and PACNS. RESULTS: 13 patients diagnosed with SuS (6 women and 7 men, mean age 35 ±â€¯10 years) and 15 with PACNS (10 women and 5 men, mean age 44 ±â€¯18 years) were analyzed. Cognitive impairment (11 out of 13 patients vs. 5 out of 15, p = .006), ataxia (7 out of 13 vs. 2 out of 15, p = .042) and auditory disturbances (7 out of 13 vs. 0 out of 15, p = .003) were more frequent in SuS patients; whereas seizures were more frequent in PACNS patients (8 out of 15 vs. 1 out of 13, p = .035). On MRI, corpus callosum (CC) involvement was observed more often in SuS, with abnormalities in CC genu, in 13 out of 13 SuS patients vs. only 2 out of 15 PACNS patients (p < .001); in CC body these were present in 13 out of 13 SuS patients vs. 1 out of 15 PACNS patients, (p < .001); and in CC splenium in 12 out of 13 Sus patients vs. 1 of 15 PACNS, p < .001). Cortical lesions were more frequent in PACNS patients (10 out of 15 vs. 3 out of 13 SuS patients, p = .02), as were hemorrhages (5 out of 15 vs. 0 out of 13 SuS, p = .04) and multiple basal ganglia infarcts (7 out of 15 vs. 1 out of 13 Sus, p = .037). CONCLUSION: Specific clinical and/or MRI findings may help distinguish SuS from PACNS with potential therapeutic implications.

Cardiopulmonary fitness is strongly associated with body cell mass and fat-free mass: The Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP).

Peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) is commonly indexed by total body weight (TBW) to determine cardiopulmonary fitness (CPF). This approach may lead to misinterpretation, particularly in obese subjects. We investigated the normalization of VO2peak by different body composition markers. We analyzed combined data of 3848 subjects (1914 women; 49.7%), aged 20-90, from two independent cohorts of the population-based Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP-2 and SHIP-TREND). VO2peak was assessed by cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Body cell mass (BCM), fat-free mass (FFM), and fat mass (FM) were determined by bioelectrical impedance analysis. The suitability of the different markers as a normalization variable was evaluated by taking into account correlation coefficients (r) and intercept (α-coefficient) values from linear regression models. A combination of high r and low α values was considered as preferable for normalization purposes. BCM was the best normalization variable for VO2peak (r = .72; P ≤ .001; α-coefficient = 63.3 mL/min; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.48-123) followed by FFM (r = .63; P ≤ .001; α-coefficient = 19.6 mL/min; 95% CI: -57.9-97.0). On the other hand, a much weaker correlation and a markedly higher intercept were found for TBW (r = .42; P ≤ .001; α-coefficient = 579 mL/min; 95% CI: 483 to 675). Likewise, FM was also identified as a poor normalization variable (r = .10; P ≤ .001; α-coefficient = 2133; 95% CI: 2074-2191). Sex-stratified analyses confirmed the above order for the different normalization variables. Our results suggest that BCM, followed by FFM, might be the most appropriate marker for the normalization of VO2peak when comparing CPF between subjects with different body shape.

Regulatory networks underlying mycorrhizal development delineated by genome-wide expression profiling and functional analysis of the transcription factor repertoire of the plant symbiotic fungus Laccaria bicolor.

BACKGROUND: Ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi develop a mutualistic symbiotic interaction with the roots of their host plants. During this process, they undergo a series of developmental transitions from the running hyphae in the rhizosphere to the coenocytic hyphae forming finger-like structures within the root apoplastic space. These transitions, which involve profound, symbiosis-associated metabolic changes, also entail a substantial transcriptome reprogramming with coordinated waves of differentially expressed genes. To date, little is known about the key transcriptional regulators driving these changes, and the aim of the present study was to delineate and functionally characterize the transcription factor (TF) repertoire of the model ECM fungus Laccaria bicolor. RESULTS: We curated the L. bicolor gene models coding for transcription factors and assessed their expression and regulation in Poplar and Douglas fir ectomycorrhizae. We identified 285 TFs, 191 of which share a significant similarity with known transcriptional regulators. Expression profiling of the corresponding transcripts identified TF-encoding fungal genes differentially expressed in the ECM root tips of both host plants. The L. bicolor core set of differentially expressed TFs consists of 12 and 22 genes that are, respectively, upregulated and downregulated in symbiotic tissues. These TFs resemble known fungal regulators involved in the control of fungal invasive growth, fungal cell wall integrity, carbon and nitrogen metabolism, invasive stress response and fruiting-body development. However, this core set of mycorrhiza-regulated TFs seems to be characteristic of L. bicolor and our data suggest that each mycorrhizal fungus has evolved its own set of ECM development regulators. A subset of the above TFs was functionally validated with the use of a heterologous, transcription activation assay in yeast, which also allowed the identification of previously unknown, transcriptionally active yet secreted polypeptides designated as Secreted Transcriptional Activator Proteins (STAPs). CONCLUSIONS: Transcriptional regulators required for ECM symbiosis development in L. bicolor have been uncovered and classified through genome-wide analysis. This study also identifies the STAPs as a new class of potential ECM effectors, highly expressed in mycorrhizae, which may be involved in the control of the symbiotic root transcriptome.

First record of Scobina poeciloides (Ashmead, 1895) (Hymenoptera: Argidae) for Brazil and update of geographical distribution of three species of Scobina Lepeletier & Serville, 1828 for the State of Rio Grande do Sul / Primeiro registro de Scobina poeciloides (Ashmead, 1895) (Hymenoptera: Argidae) para o Brasil e aumento da distribuição geográfica de três espécies de Scobina Lepeletier & Serville, 1828 para o estado do Rio Grande do Sul

Abstract It is recorded for the first time in the state of Rio Grande do Sul the occurrence of Scobina melanocephala (Lepeletier, 1823), Scobina thoracica (Jorgensen, 1913) and Scobina poeciloides (Ashmead, 1895), being this last the first record for Brazil. Scobina melanopyga (Klug, 1834) and Scobina torquata (Konow, 1903) were also found in the study. The analyzed material was collected utilizing Malaise traps in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) fields and is deposited at the Entomological Collection of Santa Cruz do Sul.

Resumo É registrado pela primeira no estado do Rio Grande do Sul a ocorrência de Scobina melanocephala (Lepeletier, 1823), Scobina thoracica (Jorgensen, 1913) e Scobina poeciloides (Ashmead, 1895), esta última sendo registrada pela primeira vez no Brasil. Scobina melanopyga (Klug, 1834) e Scobina torquata (Konow, 1903) também foram encontradas no estudo. O material analisado foi coletado utilizando armadilhas de Malaise em cultivo de tabaco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) e estão depositados na Coleção Entomológica de Santa Cruz do Sul.

First record of Scobina poeciloides (Ashmead, 1895) (Hymenoptera: Argidae) for Brazil and update of geographical distribution of three species of Scobina Lepeletier & Serville, 1828 for the State of Rio Grande do Sul

Abstract It is recorded for the first time in the state of Rio Grande do Sul the occurrence of Scobina melanocephala (Lepeletier, 1823), Scobina thoracica (Jorgensen, 1913) and Scobina poeciloides (Ashmead, 1895), being this last the first record for Brazil. Scobina melanopyga (Klug, 1834) and Scobina torquata (Konow, 1903) were also found in the study. The analyzed material was collected utilizing Malaise traps in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) fields and is deposited at the Entomological Collection of Santa Cruz do Sul.

Resumo É registrado pela primeira no estado do Rio Grande do Sul a ocorrência de Scobina melanocephala (Lepeletier, 1823), Scobina thoracica (Jorgensen, 1913) e Scobina poeciloides (Ashmead, 1895), esta última sendo registrada pela primeira vez no Brasil. Scobina melanopyga (Klug, 1834) e Scobina torquata (Konow, 1903) também foram encontradas no estudo. O material analisado foi coletado utilizando armadilhas de Malaise em cultivo de tabaco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) e estão depositados na Coleção Entomológica de Santa Cruz do Sul.

First record of Scobina poeciloides (Ashmead, 1895) (Hymenoptera: Argidae) for Brazil and update of geographical distribution of three species of Scobina Lepeletier & Serville, 1828 for the State of Rio Grande do Sul.

It is recorded for the first time in the state of Rio Grande do Sul the occurrence of Scobina melanocephala (Lepeletier, 1823), Scobina thoracica (Jorgensen, 1913) and Scobina poeciloides (Ashmead, 1895), being this last the first record for Brazil. Scobina melanopyga (Klug, 1834) and Scobina torquata (Konow, 1903) were also found in the study. The analyzed material was collected utilizing Malaise traps in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) fields and is deposited at the Entomological Collection of Santa Cruz do Sul.

First record of Conostigmus Dahlbom, 1858 (Hymenoptera: Megaspilidae) from Brazil and description of the female of Conostigmus binasutus Dessart & Cancemi, 1986

Abstract Conostigmus Dahlbom, 1858 (Hymenoptera: Megaspilidae) is reported for the first time from Brazil. Here, we provide a diagnosis of Conostigmus binasutus Dessart & Cancemi, 1986 and the description and illustration of the female, previously unknown. The analyzed material was collected utilizing Malaise traps, in Manaus, Amazon, Brazil and deposited at the Invertebrate collection of INPA (Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia) of Manaus. A identification key and distribution map to the Neotropical species of Conostigmus is provided.

Resumo Conostigmus Dahlbom, 1858 (Hymenoptera: Megaspilidae) é relatado pela primeira vez no Brasil. Aqui, nós fornecemos a diagnose de Conostigmus binasutus Dessart & Cancemi, 1986 e descrição e ilustração da fêmea, desconhecida anteriormente. O material analisado foi coletado utilizando armadilha Malaise, em Manaus, Amazonas, Brasil, e está depositado na Coleção de invertebrados do INPA (Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia) de Manaus. Além disso, é apresentada uma chave de identificação e mapa de distribuição das espécies Neotropicais de Conostigmus.

[Economic Analysis of Treatment Courses for Patients Over the Age of 80 Years at a Surgical Maximum Care Centre]. / Ökonomische Analyse des Behandlungsverlaufs bei über 80-jährigen Patienten an einer Klinik der chirurgischen Maximalversorgung.

BACKGROUND: The demographic change in Germany with an aging population and the resulting necessity of adequate surgical care for older patients was lately discussed with concern. One major aspect is the estimated higher treatment costs in the care of the elderly. MATERIALS AND METHODS: InEK data from all cases of patients over the age of 80, who were treated and discharged from 2008 to 2012 as inpatients at the Department of General, Visceral, Vascular and Thoracic Surgery at the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Mitte, were analysed. Of a total of 13,612 patients 626 patients were over the age of 80. Their lengths of stay, mode of discharge and discharge management as well as costs and reimbursements according to the relevant diagnosis-related groups were analysed. RESULTS: Cases of elderly patients amounted to a stable 5 % of all cases from 2008 until 2012. Their mean length of stay was 14 (median, 9), range, 1-129 days. 80 % of patients could be regularly discharged, 9 % died, 8 % were transferred to another hospital, 2 % discharged into a nursing home and 1 % into a rehabilitation centre. The elderly patients had a patient clinical complexity level of mean 2.84. Costs per day amounted to a mean 778 (median: 627) €, range: 306-7740 €, total costs to 10,686 (median: 5140) €, range: 368-186,059 €. The mean deficit was 491 (median: 176) € per patient, range: - 30,470-75,144 €. The discharge management was significantly different in comparison to patients under the age of 80 with respect to avoidance of discharge at the weekend. CONCLUSION: Patients over the age of 80 are a relevant group in surgery. They have an increased perioperative risk, but patients should not be denied surgery solely because of their age. The perioperative management of the elderly has to be of maximum standardised quality. From an economic perspective it can be stated that elderly patients currently pose no exceptional financial risk to a surgical department, but contribute relevantly to the turnover, whereby special attention has to be paid to an early structured discharge management.

The relationship between fatty acid profiles in milk identified by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and onset of luteal activity in Norwegian dairy cattle.

To investigate the feasibility of milk fatty acids as predictors of onset of luteal activity (OLA), 87 lactations taken from 73 healthy Norwegian Red cattle were surveyed over 2 winter housing seasons. The feasibility of using frozen milk samples for dry-film Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) determination of milk samples was also tested. Morning milk samples were collected thrice weekly (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) for the first 10 wk in milk (WIM). These samples had bronopol (2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol) added to them before being frozen at -20°C, thawed, and analyzed by ELISA to determine progesterone concentration and the concentrations of the milk fatty acids C4:0, C14:0, C16:0, C18:0, and cis-9 C18:1 as a proportion of total milk fatty acid content using dry-film FTIR, and averaged by WIM. Onset of luteal activity was defined as the first day that milk progesterone concentrations were >3 ng/mL for 2 successive measurements; the study population was categorized as early (n=47) or late (n=40) OLA, using the median value of 21 DIM as the cutoff. Further milk samples were collected 6 times weekly, from morning and afternoon milkings, these were pooled by WIM, and one proportional sample was analyzed fresh for fat, protein, and lactose content by the dairy company Tine SA, using traditional FTIR spectrography in the wet phase of milk. Daily energy-balance calculations were performed in 42 lactations and averaged by WIM. Animals experiencing late OLA had a more negative energy balance in WIM 1, 3, 4, and 5, with the greatest differences been seen in WIM 3 and 4. A higher proportion of the fatty acids were medium chained, C14:0 and C16:0, in the early than in the late OLA group from WIM 1. In WIM 4, the proportion of total fatty acid content that was C16:0 predicted late OLA, with 74% sensitivity and 80% specificity. The long-chain proportion of the fatty acids C18:0 and cis-9 C18:1 were lower in the early than in the late OLA group. Differences were greatest in WIM 4 and 5. Differences in concentrations of cis-9 C18:1 were seen between the groups from WIM 1. No relationship was seen between OLA and milk concentrations of either protein or fat, or between OLA and the milk fat:protein ratio. The differences in milk fatty acid proportions between the 2 groups are most likely related to differences in energy balance. The study shows that frozen milk samples can be tested for fatty acids by FTIR spectroscopy and that FTIR spectroscopy of milk can be used to provide real-time information about cow reproductive function.