Workplace bullying and sexual harassment among general surgery residents in Colombia / Acoso laboral y sexual en residentes de cirugía general en Colombia

Introduction. Workplace bullying and sexual harassment are concerns among general surgery residents in Colombia. Objective. To explore the prevalence and impact of workplace bullying and sexual harassment incidents among general surgery residents in Colombia. Materials and methods. This nationwide study was conducted in 2020. Residents selfrated their exposure to workplace bullying and to sexual harassment in the forms of gender harassment, unwanted sexual attention, and sexual coercion. We analyzed demographic variables, perpetrator's characteristics, and differences between victims and non-victims. Results. The study included 302 residents. It found that 49% of general surgery residents in Colombia suffered from workplace bullying and 14.9% experienced sexual harassment. The main forms of sexual harassment were gender harassment (47%) and unwanted sexual attention (47%). Women reported significantly higher rates of being sexually harassed. Surgeons were the main perpetrators of sexual harassment. Conclusions. Workplace bullying and sexual harassment are frequent events in general surgery residency in Colombia. These findings suggest the need for interventions to improve the educational culture of surgical departments and decrease the prevalence of these behaviors.

Introducción. El acoso laboral y el acoso sexual son preocupaciones en la formación quirúrgica. Objetivo. Exploramos la magnitud de estos problemas entre los residentes de cirugía general en Colombia. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un estudio nacional en junio de 2020. Los residentes autoevaluaron su exposición a la intimidación y el acoso sexual en forma de acoso de género, atención sexual no deseada y coerción sexual. Se analizaron variables demográficas y perpetradores entre víctimas y no víctimas. Resultados. Se incluyeron un total de 302 residentes. Las tasas de acoso laboral y sexual fueron del 49% y 14,9%, respectivamente. Las principales formas de acoso sexual correspondieron al acoso de género (47%) y la atención sexual no deseada (47%). El acoso sexual fue significativamente mayor entre las mujeres. Los cirujanos fueron los principales perpetradores. Conclusiones. El acoso laboral y el acoso sexual son frecuentes en la formación quirúrgica en Colombia. Estos hallazgos conducen a intervenciones para mejorar la cultura educativa de los departamentos quirúrgicos para disminuir la prevalencia de estos comportamientos.

Characterization of Geiger-Müller radiation detectors response at the University of Costa Rica's Cyclotron Facilities / Caracterización de la respuesta de detectores de radiación Geiger-Müller en el Ciclotrón de la Universidad de Costa Rica

To ensure a reliable verification of a radiation detector, the right parameters for this response verification must be determined and a specific characterization on the detectors of interest must be performed. These were the main pillars of this study, where four Geiger-Müller at the University of Costa Rica's Cyclotron Facilities' main laboratories were studied and characterized using a 137Cs source. First, a verification of the inverse-square law was performed to corroborate the correct measurement by the detectors as the distance from a 137Cs source to the detectors was varied using a new design for a positioner support to ensure repeatability. This verification yielded a potential fit curve with and equation D=670635 x-1.961 (error percentage of 1.95%) and an R2 value of 0.9836. Then, using combinations of copper plates of widths 1.0 mm and 2.0 mm as attenuators between the source and the detectors, the mass attenuation coefficient for copper was obtained only as a reference value for future calibrations of the detectors. The result for this value was 0.040 cm2 /g. The results obtained in this study and the method developed to achieve these results will serve as a base for calibrations of the detectors at these facilities, which will ensure the safety of the patients and personnel in this building.

Para asegurar respuesta correcta de un detector de radiación, se deben determinar los parámetros correctos para esta verificación y debe realizarse una caracterización específica de los detectores de interés. Estos fueron los pilares principales de este estudio, donde se estudiaron y caracterizaron 4 detectores Geiger-Müller en los laboratorios principales del Ciclotrón de la Universidad de Costa Rica utilizando una fuente radiactiva de 137Cs. Primero, se realizó una verificación de la ley del inverso-cuadrado para corroborar la medición correcta de los detectores según se varía la distancia entre la fuente de 137Cs al detector utilizando un diseño nuevo de un soporte posicionador para la fuente que asegura la repetibilidad entre experimentos. Esta verificación resultó en una curva de ajuste potencial de ecuación D=670635x-1,961 (porcentaje de error de 1,95%) y un valor de R2 de 0,9836. Luego, utilizando combinaciones de placas de cobre de espesores 1,0 mm y 2,0 mm como atenuadores entre la fuente y los detectores, se obtuvo el coeficiente de atenuación másico para el cobre como un valor de referencia para futuras calibraciones de los detectores. Este resultado fue de 0,040 cm2/g. Los resultados obtenidos en esta investigación y el método desarrollado para lograr estos resultados servirán como una base para una futura confirmación metrológica calibraciones de los detectores en estos laboratorios, lo cual colaborará con la seguridad y protección radiológica de pacientes y trabajadores en este edificio.

Insuficiencia renal aguda secundaria a rabdomiolisis como manifestación de infección por SARS-CoV-2 / Acute kidney injury caused by rhabdomyolysis as a SARS-CoV-2 infection manifestation: report of one case

SARS-CoV-2 infection has a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations secondary to the impairment of different organs, including kidney. Rhabdomyolysis is produced by disintegration of striated muscle and the liberation of its contents to the extracellular fluid and bloodstream. This may produce hydro electrolytic disorders and acute kidney injury. We report a 35-year-old female with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection who was hospitalized because of respiratory failure and developed renal failure. The etiologic study showed elevated total creatine kinase levels and a magnetic resonance imaging confirmed rhabdomyolysis. The patient required supportive treatment with vasoactive drugs, mechanic ventilation and kidney replacement therapy. She had a favorable evolution with resolution of respiratory failure and improvement of kidney function.

Long-term trends of fishery landings and target fish populations in the lower La Plata basin

The La Plata basin is the second largest basin of South America and has supported important river fisheries for more than a century. In this paper, we evaluate for the first time the historical trends of landings of 21 fish taxa and the recent population trends of 27 species of commercial fishes in the lower La Plata basin (Argentina). We compiled three kinds of data sets: Total fishery landings (between 1934 and 1986) and exports (1994‒2019), fisheries monitoring programs of Chaco and Santa Fe provinces in the Paraná River (2009‒2019), and surveys of fish populations in the Upper (Corrientes, 1993‒2020) and Middle (EBIPES, 2005‒2020) Paraná River. The analysis of the historical landings showed more species declining in the lower portion of the basin than in the upper basin. Regarding recent population trends, Pimelodus spp., Hoplias spp., Salminus brasiliensis, Luciopimelodus pati, and Ageneiosus spp. declined in more than one region, while Megaleporinus spp., Pterodoras granulosus, and Oxydoras kneri showed stable to positive trends, with the other species varying in their trends between regions. These tendencies could be associated to a combination of factors such as overfishing and environmental changes that would require an ecosystem approach for their adequate management.(AU)

La Cuenca del Plata es la segunda más grande de Sudamérica y ha soportado importantes pesquerías fluviales desde hace más de un siglo. En este trabajo, evaluamos por primera vez las tendencias históricas en los desembarques pesqueros de 21 taxones de peces y las tendencias poblacionales recientes de 27 especies de peces comerciales de la baja Cuenca del Plata (Argentina). Compilamos tres tipos de datos: desembarques pesqueros totales (1934‒1986) y exportaciones (1994‒2019), programas de monitoreo de pesca comercial de las provincias de Chaco y Santa Fe en el río Paraná (2009‒2019), y relevamientos de peces en el río Paraná Alto (Corrientes, 1993‒2020) y Medio (EBIPES, 2005‒2020). El análisis de los desembarques históricos mostró más disminuciones en la porción baja de la cuenca que en la porción alta. En cuanto a las tendencias poblacionales recientes, Pimelodus spp., Hoplias spp., Salminus brasiliensis, Luciopimelodus pati y Ageneiosus spp. declinaron en más de un sector, mientras que Megaleporinus spp., Pterodoras granulosus y Oxydoras kneri mostraron tendencias estables a positivas, con las otras especies variando en sus tendencias entre regiones. Estas tendencias podrían asociarse a una combinación de factores como la sobrepesca y los cambios ambientales que requerirían una aproximación ecosistémica para su adecuado manejo.(AU)

Uso de mallas de polipropileno en el reparo de la hernia inguinal con herida sucia o contaminada / Use of polypropylene meshes in the repair of inguinal hernia with dirty or contaminated wound

Introducción. La hernioplastia con malla de polipropileno es la técnica de elección para el reparo de las hernias inguinales. Actualmente, existe controversia sobre esta técnica en pacientes con heridas sucias o contaminadas; sin embargo, la evidencia en la literatura médica ha demostrado que su uso puede ser seguro. Los autores presentan su experiencia con las mallas de polipropileno en la cirugía contaminada para cierre de hernias inguinales.Método. Se realizó un estudio observacional retrospectivo en el que se incluyeron los pacientes mayores de 18 años atendidos entre enero de 2017 y diciembre de 2018 por presentar hernias inguinales, que requirieron tratamiento quirúrgico de urgencias, y que presentaban heridas sucias o contaminadas. Los criterios evaluados fueron: infección de la herida quirúrgica, morbilidad y mortalidad, necesidad de remoción de la malla y recurrencia de la hernia.Resultados. Diez pacientes fueron sometidos a cirugía de urgencias, requiriendo resección intestinal por necrosis: nueve de ellos, por hernias estranguladas y, uno, por apendicitis perforada. En uno de los diez pacientes, se consideró sucia la herida por presentar necrosis intestinal y perforación. Los nueve restantes presentaban necrosis intestinal sin perforación, por lo cual se consideraron heridas contaminadas. La infección de la herida ocurrió en 1/10 pacientes con infección del sitio operatorio superficial; la eliminación de la malla no fue necesaria en ningún paciente durante todo el período de estudio. No se observaron recidivas y no hubo mortalidad.Conclusión. El uso de malla de polipropileno para la corrección de hernias inguinales, en pacientes con heridas sucias o contaminadas, es efectivo y seguro, con una morbilidad aceptable y buenos resultados a corto plazo

Introduction: Polypropylene mesh hernioplasty is the technique of choice for the repair of inguinal hernias. Currently, there is controversy about this technique in patients with dirty or contaminated wounds. However, evidence in the medical literature has shown its use can be safe. The authors present their experience in the use of polypropylene meshes in contaminated surgery to close inguinal hernias.Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted in patients older than 18 year-old between January 2017 and December 2018. Were included those with inguinal hernias, requiring emergency surgical treatment, and presented contaminated or dirty wounds. The inclusion criteria were infection of the surgical wound, the need for removal of the mesh removal and recurrence of the hernia.Results: Ten patients underwent emergency surgery, requiring bowel resection for necrosis: nine of them for strangulated hernias and, one for perforated appendicitis. In one of the ten patients, the wound was considered dirty due to intestinal necrosis and perforation. The remaining nine had intestinal necrosis without perforation, so they were considered contaminated wounds. Wound infection occurred in 1/10 patients (10%) with superficial operative site infection; mesh removal was not necessary in any patient during the entire study period. No recurrence was observed and there was no mortality.Conclusion: The use of polypropylene mesh for the correction of inguinal hernias in patients with contaminated and dirty wounds is effective and safe, with acceptable morbidity and good short-term results

Educación quirúrgica en Colombia en la era del COVID­19 / Surgical education in Colombia in the era of COVID­19

La enfermedad por Coronavirus-2 en poco tiempo ha logrado encender las alarmas de los sistemas de salud a nivel mundial. Además de las implicaciones económicas, sanitarias, políticas, culturales y sociales, está claro que ha cambiado la vida de los seres humanos incluyendo como se desarrollan los programas de postgrado en medicina.Múltiples comunidades científicas alrededor del mundo han manifestado la necesidad de diferir los pro-cedimientos quirúrgicos electivos y priorizar la atención de los pacientes por encima de la academia, lo que podría disminuir la exposición de residentes de cirugía general a actos quirúrgicos esenciales para su aprendizaje.Como respuesta a ello, los autores presentan este artículo en donde se discute el papel de la educación virtual y la simulación como posibles respuestas a la dificultad educativa que representa la pandemia del COVID-19

Coronavirus-2 disease in a short time has managed to turn on the alarms of systems healthcare worldwide. In addition to the economic, health, political, cultural, and social implications, it has changed the lives of human beings including how medical graduate programs are developed. Multiple scientific communities around the world have expressed the need to defer elective surgical procedures and prioritize patient care over teaching, which could decrease the exposure of general surgery residents to surgical opportunities essential to their learning. In response to this, the authors present this article where the role of virtual education and simulation are discussed as possible responses to the educational difficulty represented by the COVID-19 pandemic

Eficacia de la colangiopancreatografía por resonancia magnética para el diagnóstico de coledocolitiasis de probabilidad intermedia / Efficacy of cholangiopancreatograghy by magnetic resonance in the diagnosis of choledocholithiasis of intermediate probability

Introducción. La coledocolitiasis de probabilidad intermedia es una condición con gran morbilidad por el riesgo de pancreatitis y colangitis, y se requiere el estudio de la vía biliar para su enfoque diagnóstico y terapéutico. Actualmente, el método de referencia para su diagnóstico y tratamiento, es un examen invasivo, la colangiopancreatografía retrógrada endoscópica (CPRE), que no siempre lleva a un diagnóstico positivo de coledocolitiasis, pero sí implica exponer a los pacientes a sus riesgos. Por esta razón, la colangiopancreatografía por resonancia magnética (CPRM) ha tomado importancia en el diagnóstico, ya que es un examen no invasivo y con menor riesgo de complicaciones, por lo que se pretende evaluar su uso en la coledocolitiasis de probabilidad intermedia. Métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio de pruebas diagnósticas en una muestra de pacientes con coledocolitiasis de probabilidad intermedia, en la Fundación Salud El Bosque, entre enero de 2012 y agosto de 2015. Resultados. Se incluyeron 151 pacientes con diagnóstico de coledocolitiasis de probabilidad intermedia. Se evaluaron las características de la CPRM, la cual mostró sensibilidad de 88 %, especificidad de 79 %, valor predictivo positivo (VPP) de 88 % y valor predictivo negativo (VPN) de 96 %, con un índice de exactitud de 94,7 %. Conclusiones. La CPRM es un examen con un rendimiento adecuado en la evaluación de los pacientes con coledocolitiasis de probabilidad intermedia. En estos casos permite obviar la CPRE diagnóstica. El impacto de la dilatación de la vía biliar sumada a otras alteraciones del perfil hepático, no se puede establecer con este estudio

Introduction. Patients with intermediate probability of choledocholithiasis exhibit a highly morbid pathology due to the risk of developing pancreatitis and cholangitis; it demands the study of the bile duct for appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic approach. Currently, the gold standard for its diagnosis and treatment is an invasive examination, ERCP, which not always ends with positive diagnosis of choledocholithiasis, exposing the patient to the associated risks. This is why magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography has acquired importance in the diagnosis, for it is a non-invasive procedure with lesser risk of complications. For this reason we decided to evaluate its use in mid-probability choledocholithiasis. Methods. A study of the diagnostic tests was carried out in a sample of 151 patients with intermediate probability of choledocholithiasis at our center, Fundación Salud El Bosque (Bogotá, Colombia), in the period 2012-2015. Results: A total of 151 patients with the diagnosis of choledocholithiasis of intermediate probability were included, evaluating the characteristics of the MRCP, which showed sensitivity of 88%, specificity 79%, PPV88% and NPV 96%, with an accuracy index of 94.7%. Conclusions. MRCP is a test that exhibits adequate performance in the evaluation of patients with intermediate probability of choledocholithiasis, avoiding the performance of ERCP. It confirms its previous use when faced with mid-chance choledocholithiasis. The diagnostic impact of dilation of the bile duct and other alterations of the liver profile can not be established with this study

Osificación del ligamento estilohioideo como causa de dolor neuropático grave: enfoque del cirujano de cabeza y cuello / Ossification of the stylohyoid ligament as cause of severe neuropathic pain: approach by the head and neck surgeon

Introducción. La osificación de la cadena estilohioidea es una entidad poco frecuente que se caracteriza por dolor neuropático importante en la región facial y la cervical, secundario a la compresión mecánica de las estructuras vasculares y nerviosas del cuello. Tradicionalmente, se trata de una enfermedad de manejo por el otorrinolaringólogo, aunque en algunos casos es necesaria la intervención del cirujano de cabeza y cuello. Es por ello que, en el presente artículo, se presenta un reporte de caso y se hace una revisión de la literatura científica. Caso clínico. Se presenta el caso de una paciente de 65 años de edad que consultó por dolor cervical y facial serio, secundario a la osificación del complejo estilohioideo, con necesidad de manejo quirúrgico. Por medio de una cervicotomía, se extrajo la pieza osificada, sin complicaciones perioperatorias y resultados favorables. Discusión. La osificación del complejo estilohioideo es una situación poco frecuente, con un cuadro clínico inespecífico y mecanismos fisiopatológicos desconocidos, que puede llevar a circunstancias potencialmente mortales. Para llegar a su diagnóstico, se debe tener un alto grado de sospecha y se confirma con una tomografía de cuello con reconstrucción tridimensional. Su tratamiento es quirúrgico, aunque también se ha descrito el manejo médico. En la literatura médica, no existen estudios que comparen los métodos diagnósticos y terapéuticos para esta entidad, por lo cual, hasta el día de hoy, existen grandes controversias al respecto. Esto hace necesario que se lleven a cabo nuevas investigaciones en este campo

Introduction: Stylohyoid chain ossification is a rare entity characterized by severe neuropathic pain in the facial region secondary to mechanical compression of neurovascular structures of the neck. Traditionally it is a pathology that requires otorhinolaryngological management, although in some cases the intervention of the head and neck surgeon is necessary. That is why in this article we present the management of a patient with this pathology. Clinical case: Our case is a 65-year-old woman who consulted for severe neck and facial pain secondary to the ossification of the stylohyoid complex and the requirement for surgical management. By means of cervicotomy the ossified piece is extracted, without any perioperative complication and favorable results. Discussion: Stylohyoid chain ossification is a rare pathology, with a nonspecific clinical picture which can lead to potentially fatal circumstances. To reach the diagnosis, the surgeon is required to have a high degree of suspicion and confirmation with a neck CT scan with 3D reconstruction. The treatment for this entity is usually surgical, although medical management has also been described. There are no studies reported in the medical literature comparing the diagnostic and therapeutic methods for this entity, so that until today, major controversies in this regard still remains. It becomes necessary new research in this field

Prevalencia de pacientes con alto riesgo de caídas en un servicio médico-quirúrgico de un hospital universitario / Risk of falls among patients admitted to a medical-surgical ward: analysis of 376 medical records

Background: Detecting patients at risk of falls during hospital stay is of utmost importance to implement preventive measures. Aim: To determine the frequency of patients with a high risk of falls admitted to a medical-surgical ward. To assess the preventive measures implemented. Materials and Methods: Review of medical records of 376 patients aged 20 to 97 years (28% older than 70 years) admitted to a clinical hospital in a period of four months. Results: Eleven percent of patients had a history of falls, 50% had a sensory deficit, 68% had unstable gait, 8% had a neurological risk condition, 8% had drowsiness or disorientation, 4% had psychomotor agitation or delirium, 86 % used high risk medications, 73% used 2 or more high risk drugs and 72% were using devices that decrease mobility. One hundred forty-one patients (38%) had a high risk of falling. The mean age of the latter was 77 years, 89% had a sensory deficit, 96% had unstable gait, 4% had psychomotor agitation or delirium and 98% used high risk drugs. Less than 1% had a medical prescription of a caregiver, physical restraints or antipsychotics, however, 21% of patients had a caregiver. Conclusions: The percentage of patients with a high risk of falling is important. The main risk factors were sensory deficit, unstable gait and the use of high risk medications. The low frequency of preventive measures prescriptions is striking.

Pancreatoduodenectomía de urgencia: Whipple o no Whipple, esa es la cuestión / Emergency pancreatoduodenectomy: Whipple or no Whipple, that is the question

Introducción. La pancreatoduodenectomía, u operación de Whipple, fue descrita por Codivilla en 1898 como tratamiento para el cáncer de la cola del páncreas. Con aportes posteriores se ha perfeccionado la técnica, lo cual ha permitido su aplicación en diferentes circunstancias y ha contribuido a la supervivencia de muchos pacientes. Sin embargo, su uso poco frecuente y las dificultades para practicarla, hacen complicado decidir si se utiliza o no la técnica de Whipple. Caso clínico. Se presenta y analiza el caso de un paciente que ingresó a urgencias por un trauma penetrante de abdomen con una grave lesión pancreatoduodenal; se le practicó de urgencia una operación de Whipple en el servicio de cirugía general de una institución de tercer nivel de Bogotá, y se obtuvieron resultados satisfactorios. Además, se hace una revisión exhaustiva de la literatura científica. Discusión y conclusiones. La pancreatoduodenectomía de urgencia es una cirugía compleja que supone un reto quirúrgico, en el cual se deben tener en cuenta el estado hemodinámico, el estado ácido-base y la presencia o ausencia de coagulopatía, a la hora de adoptar una conducta definitiva

Introduction: Pancreaticoduodenectomy is a procedure first described by Codivilla in 1898 for the management of pancreatic cancer. With subsequent contributions the technique has been perfected allowing its application in other contexts leading to the survival of many patients. However, the low demand for the procedure and the difficulties in doing so makes the decision of whether to take or not to take the patient to a Whipple surgery a very complex matter. Case report: We present the case of a patient who arrived at the emergency room with penetrating abdominal trauma with pancreaticoduodenal injury in whom the Whipple procedure was performed urgently by the general surgery service at a third level of care institution in Bogotá, Colombia, with excellent results. Discussion and conclusions: Emergency pancreatoduodenectomy is a complex procedure that represents a surgical challenge in which the hemodynamic state, the acid base balance and the presence of coagulopathy need to be considered when assuming some definitive conduct. A comprehensive review of the scientific literature is presented

Autochthonous probiotic mixture improves biometrical parameters of larvae of Piaractus mesopotamicus (Caracidae, Characiforme, Teleostei) / Mistura probiótica autótona melhora os parâmetros biométricos nas larvas de Piaractus mesopotamicus (Caracidae, Characiforme, Teleostei)

ABSTRACT: Probiotics are a novel alternative to antibiotics as growth factors. Previously, our group isolated, selected and tested in vivo, eight autochthonous strains. They showed no significant effects when administered individually. However, the best doses, stages and ways of administration were combined in a multi strain formula. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of this probiotic product on the growth and survival of Piaractus mesopotamicus larvae. The administration was implemented during egg incubation and endogenous feeding period (5), during larvae exogenous feeding period (10) and all along the experiment (15). A group without microorganisms was used as control. The probiotic generates significant increments of mean weight and not significant increases of survival and biomass in two of the three tested stages. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of an autochthonous probiotic formula for the culture of this native fish species.

RESUMO: Os probióticos são uma alternativa inovadora aos antibióticos como fatores de crescimento. Anteriormente, nosso grupo isolou, selecionou e testou in vivo oito cepas autóctones. Estas não apresentaram efeitos significativos quando administrados individualmente. No entanto, as melhores doses, etapas e formas da administração foram combinadas para a formulação de um produto contendo multiples cepa. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito deste produto probiótico no crescimento e sobrevivência de larvas de Piaractus mesopotamicus. A administração foi implementada durante a incubação de ovos e período de alimentação endógeno (5), durante o período de alimentação exógeno das larvas (10) e ao longo do experimento (15). Um grupo sem microrganismos foi utilizado como controle. O probiótico gera um incremento significativo de peso médio e não significativo de sobrevivência e biomassa em dois dos três estágios testados. Estes resultados demonstram a eficácia de uma fórmula probiótica autóctone para a cultura desta espécie de peixe nativa.

Calidad de vida según el estadio del cáncer de seno en mujeres: análisis desde el fact-b y sf-36 / Quality of life according to the stage of breast cancer in women: analysis from the fact-b and sf-36

Resumen El cáncer se clasifica según criterios histológicos en estadios (0 o in situ, I, II, III y IV), los cuales se asocian a las tasas de sobrevida. El cáncer de mama afecta la calidad de vida de las pacientes. A partir de un estudio relacional, no experimental en una muestra no probabilística de 39 mujeres (M = 56.2, DE = 13.4) diagnosticadas con cáncer de mama, se analiza la calidad de vida y posibles diferencias según el estadio de cáncer, y se relacionan las medidas del SF-36 y el FACT-B. Los resultados describen que en estadios avanzados, los puntajes de calidad de vida son bajos en comparación a los iniciales; sin embargo, las diferencias no alcanzan la significancia estadística. Los instrumentos se relacionaron positivamente entre sí. Se concluye que la calidad de vida no difiere según los estadios oncológicos y que ambos instrumentos correlacionaron positiva y significativamente. Estos resultados alientan a nuevos trabajos en esta línea.

Abstract Cancer is classified in stages (0 or in situ, I, II, III and IV) according to histological criteria, which are associated with survival rates. Breast cancer affects the quality of life of patients. In this correlational and not experimental study, with a non probabilistic sample of 39 women diagnosed with breast cancer (M = 56.2, SD = 13.4), we analyzed the quality of life and its possible differences according to the stage of cancer; moreover, we correlated the SF-36 and FACT-B measures. The results show that the quality of life is lower in advanced stages; however, the differences are not statistically significant; and that the instruments are positively correlated. We conclude that the quality of life does not varies according to the stage of breast cancer, and both instruments correlated positive and significantly. These findings encourage further work in this area.

Migration and brackish environment use of Prochilodus lineatus (Characiformes: Prochilodontidae) inferred by Sr:Ca ratio transects of otolith

The streaked prochilod, Prochilodus lineatus, represents the most important fishery in the La Plata Basin (South America). Our objective was to analyze brackish environment use by the streaked prochilod captured from Paraná and Uruguay rivers. To accomplish this, lapillus otolith sections were analyzed for Sr:Ca with laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA ICP-MS) to infer habitat use of fish. To the interpretation of transects, a threshold that represents the transition between freshwater and brackish environments was calculated using the Sr:Ca ratio of the otolith edge of specimens captured in the first section of the La Plata Estuary (salinity ≥ 0.5 PSU). The percentage of fish using the estuary was higher in the Paraná (37%) than the Uruguay River (5%). Change-point analysis showed that fish entered the estuary between 1 and 3 times throughout life at a wide range of ages (0-15 years). These incursions had no obvious periodicity. This information should be integrated into future management actions, which should also be specific to each area since migration patterns differ between the major rivers of the basin.(AU)

El sábalo, Prochilodus lineatus, representa la pesquería más importante en la Cuenca del Río de la Plata (Sudamérica). Nuestro objetivo fue analizar el uso del hábitat estuarino del sábalo proveniente de los ríos Uruguay y Paraná. Para esto, se analizó la relación Sr:Ca en secciones de otolitos lapilli por ablación láser acoplada a espectrometría de masas con fuente de plasma de acoplamiento inductivo (LA ICP-MS) para inferir el uso de hábitat. Para interpretar las transectas, un umbral que representa la transición entre los ambientes de agua dulce y estuarino, fue calculado usando la relación Sr:Ca del borde del otolito de especímenes capturados en la primera sección del estuario del Plata (salinidad ≥0.5 UPS). El porcentaje de peces que usaron el estuario fue más elevado para el Paraná (37%) en relación al Uruguay (5%). El análisis de cambio puntual mostro que los individuos ingresan al estuario entre 1 a 3 veces a lo largo de la vida en un amplio rango de edades (0-15 años). Las incursiones no mostraron una periodicidad notoria. Esta información debería integrarse a futuras acciones de manejo que deberían ser específicas para cada área considerando los patrones de migración que difieren entre los grandes ríos de la Cuenca.(AU)

Development of the vertebral column and caudal skeleton in Prochilodus lineatus larvae under laboratory conditions / Desarrollo de la columna vertebral y del esqueleto caudal en larvas de Prochilodus lineatus en condiciones de larvicultura intensiva

For successful fish larviculture thorough studies describing the development of fish in different morphological aspects are required, as they are crucial for larval survival and growth. The present study described in Prochilodus lineatus larvae the osteological development of the vertebral column and caudal skeleton 30 days after hatching (dah). Larvae were obtained by artificial induction of adults. The beginning of formation of the spine occurs between 10 to 12 dah (8.3 mm standard length, SL) simultaneously to the first neural and hemal processes and the pre-caudal vertebral bodies. The ossification of the vertebral column occurred in cranio-caudal direction and was completed at 28 dah (22.6 mm SL). The development of the caudal skeleton elements started between 6 and 8 dah with the formation of the hypurals (H), the parahipural (PH) and the primary and secondary caudal rays. H 1 to H 3 were formed as cartilaginous primordia on the ventral side of the distal portion of the notochord, while the PH and H 4 to H 6 were formed subsequently. The first rays of the caudal fin were observed in correspondence with the formation of H 2 and H 3, while complete formation of the caudal fin was observed at 28 dah. The epurals, three in number, were evident as cartilaginous elements located both dorsal and distal in the notochord. Central ural complex (CUC) was formed by the fusion of three structures, the center preural 1 and urals 1 and 2. Development of the vertebral column and the caudal skeleton in P. lineatus larvae showed similar patterns to those described for other teleosts.

Se describe el desarrollo osteológico de la columna vertebral y del esqueleto caudal en larvas de sábalo (Prochilodus lineatus) bajo condiciones controladas hasta los 30 días posteriores a la eclosión (dpe). El inicio de la formación de la columna vertebral fue observado entre los 10-12 dpe (8,3 mm de longitud estándar, LE) con la aparición de los primeros procesos neurales, hemales y cuerpos vertebrales pre-caudales. La osificación de la columna vertebral ocurrió en sentido cráneo-caudal y fue completa a los 28 dpe (22,6 mm LE). El esqueleto caudal inició su desarrollo entre los 6 y 8 dpe con la formación de los hipurales (H), parahipural (PH) y los radios caudales principales y secundarios. Los H 1 al 3 se formaron como primordios cartilaginosos en la cara ventral de la porción distal de la notocorda, mientras que posteriormente se formaron los H 4 al 6 y el PH. Los primeros radios de la aleta caudal fueron observados en correspondencia con la formación de los H 2 y 3, mientras que a los 28 dpe se observó la completa formación de los mismos, existiendo 10 radios en el lóbulo dorsal y 9 en el lóbulo ventral. Los epurales, en número de tres, fueron evidentes como elementos cartilaginosos en dorsal de la notocorda y distalmente a los arcos neurales, permaneciendo sin osificarse hasta los 25 dpe. El complejo centro ural se constituyó por la fusión de tres estructuras, el centro preural 1, el ural 1 y 2. El desarrollo de la columna vertebral y del esqueleto caudal muestran patrones similares a los descriptos en otros teleósteos.

Growth, survival and bone alterations in Piaractus mesopotamicus larvae under different rearing protocols / Crescimento, sobrevivência e alterações ósseas em larvas de Piaractus mesopotamicus em diferentes protocolos de criação

The pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus) is a neotropical freshwater fish. It is one of the most important species farmed in areas of the Parana and Paraguay Rivers basins. The effects of different rearing protocols on growth, survival and incidence of skeletal malformations in pacu larvae were analyzed. A total of six experimental treatments were considered, consisting of: a semi-intensive larviculture (L_S) in ponds; intensive larviculture (L_In) in laboratory (both L_S and L_In until 60 days of life); and mixed larviculture, with 20 days of semi-intensive larviculture into cages in ponds after 14 (L₁), 21 (L₂), 33 (L₃) or 40 (L₄) days of laboratory larviculture. At the end of the experimental period, L_Slarvae showed higher growth rate, with average weight values (2.28g) and total length (TL-48.20mm) statistically higher than the rest (P<0.05). L₁ to L₄ treatments showed intermediate growth values, without differences between them (P>0.05), while L_In presented the lowest growth (P<0.05). Survival was around 75% in all experimental groups, except L_S, that presented a significantly lower value (17.5%, P<0.05). Skeletal abnormalities were detected in all experimental treatments, but L_In and L₁ presented the lowest incidence. In no case, visible morphological alterations were found. This study shows that prolonging pacu rearing under laboratory conditions at high densities improves temporal availability and survival of juvenile without affecting growth or subsequent osteological development of fish.

O pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus) é um peixe neotropical de água doce. É uma das espécies mais importantes cultivadas em áreas de bacias dos rios Paraná e Paraguay. Foi analisado o efeito da duração da larvicultura intensiva no crescimento, sobrevivência e incidência de malformações ósseas em pacu. Os tratamentos consistiram de uma larvicultura semi-intensiva (L_S) em viveiros, larvicultura intensiva no laboratório até 60 dias de idade (L_In), ou misto, com 20 dias de larvicultura semi-intensiva após 14 (L₁), 21 (L₂), 33 (L₃) e 40 (L₄) dias de larvicultura no laboratório. No final da experiência, as larvas do tratamento L_S apresentaram maior crescimento, com valores de peso médios (2,28g) e comprimento total (CT-48,20mm) estatisticamente superior ao resto (P<0,05). Os tratamentos L₁ a L₄apresentaram valores de crescimento intermediários, sem diferença estatística entre eles (P>0,05), enquanto L_In apresentaram os menores valores de crescimento estimados (P<0,05). A sobrevivência foi estimada em torno de 75% em todos os grupos, com exceção do L_S, o qual apresentou um valor mais baixo (17,5%, P<0,05). Em todos os tratamentos experimentais, foram detectadas alterações esqueléticas, mas em nenhum caso foi encontrado alteração morfológica visível. O presente estudo mostra que a retenção prolongada de larvas de pacu em alta densidade melhora a disponibilidade temporal e sobrevivência dos juvenis, sem afetar o crescimento ou desenvolvimento osteológico posterior destes.

Desarrollo Ontogénico de la Columna Vertebral y del Esqueleto Caudal en Larvas de Rhamdia quelen en Condiciones de Larvicultura Intensiva / Ontogenic Development of the Vertebral Column and Caudal Skeleton in Rhamdia quelen Larvae in Larviculture Intensive System

Se analiza por primera vez el desarrollo osteológico de la columna vertebral y del esqueleto caudal en larvas de Rhamdia quelen mantenidas bajo condiciones controladas y con alimentación artificial. Entre los días 1 a 20 posteriores a la eclosión (dpe) se muestrearon a intervalos regulares 400 larvas, que se colorearon y transparentaron siguiendo la técnica de Taylor & Van Dike. En los primeros días de vida, las larvas presentan una notocorda recta en toda su longitud. El inicio de la formación de la columna vertebral fue observado a los 7 dpe con la aparición de las espinas neurales y hemales, y entre los 9 y 10 dpe para las tres primeras vértebras. La osificación de la columna vertebral ocurrió en sentido cráneo-caudal y fue completa a los 20 dpe. El esqueleto caudal inicia su desarrollo entre los 3 y 4 dpe, con la formación de los hipurales (H), parahipural (PH) y los radios caudales. Los H 1 al 4 se formaron como primordios cartilaginosos en la cara ventral de la porción distal de la notocorda, mientras que posteriormente lo hicieron el H 5 y el PH en el extremo distal y proximal del esqueleto caudal, respectivamente. El complejo centro ural (CCU) se osificó inicialmente en dos partes, una anterior que resulta de la combinación del centro preural 1 y el ural 1 y una posterior con el ural 2. Los primeros radios de la aleta caudal aparecieron en larvas en flexión, mientras que después de los 13 dpe, todos los ejemplares presentaron los radios principales osificados (ocho en la parte superior y ocho en la inferior). El desarrollo de la columna vertebral y del esqueleto caudal en R. quelen muestra patrones similares a los descriptos en otros peces teleósteos aunque con algunas particularidades que lo diferencian de los grupos relacionados.

The osteological development of vertebral column and caudal skeleton in Rhamdia quelen larvae under controlled conditions and artificial feeding is analyzed. Between 1 to 20 day post hatching (dph) four hundred larvae were sampled at regular intervals, and subsequently colored and transparent following the Taylor & Van Dyke technique. In the first days of life, larvae have a straight notochord throughout its length. The beginning of the vertebral column formation was observed at 7 dph with the emergence of neural and haemal spines arches, and between 9 and 10 dph for the first three vertebrae. The ossification of the vertebral column occurred in cranial-caudal direction and was complete at 20 dph. The caudal skeleton begins to develop between 3 and 4 dph, with the formation of the hypurals (H), parahipural (PH) and caudal fin rays. The H 1 to 4 were formed as cartilaginous primordia on the ventral surface of the distal portion of the notochord, and then later the H 5 and PH in distal and proximal extreme of the caudal skeleton, respectively. Central ural complex (CUC) was ossified in two parts, one anterior that is a combination of central preural 1 and ural 1 and other posterior with the ural 2. The first caudal fin rays appear in flexion larvae, while after 13 dph, all specimens had ossified principal rays (eight rays in both upper and lower lobes). The development of the vertebral column and caudal skeleton shows similar patterns to those described in other teleost fish although with some peculiarities that differentiate it from related groups.

Dietary soybean meal on growth and intestinal morphology of South American catfish, Rhamdia quelen, larvae / Farelo de soja em dietas para larvas de jundiá (Rhamdia quelen) sobre o crescimento e morfologia intestinal

The effects of the replacement of bread yeast by soybean meal in diets for Rhamdia quelen larvae on growth, survival, and intestinal morphology were analysed. Larvae were fed for 20 days with five diets: a control diet formulated with 57% of bread yeast, and other four diets in which soybean meal at concentrations of 14.25, 28.5, 42.75 and 57% was added to obtain 25, 50, 75 and 100% of bread yeast replacement. Growth and survival parameters were negatively affected by dietary soybean meal inclusion. Larvae fed control diet showed significantly higher mean weight, specific growth rate, final biomass, and survival rate than larvae from other treatments. Enterocyte height and fold width of the posterior intestine showed highest values in the control group, and an inverse linear relationship with the level of dietary soybean meal inclusion was observed, however, in the anterior intestine the morphology parameters were not affected by the diet. These results indicate that inclusion of soybean meal in diets for R. quelen larvae negatively affects growth and survival, as well as the capacity for digestion and absorption of nutrients, mainly in the posterior intestine.

Neste estudo, foi analisado o efeito da substituição de levedura de pão por farelo de soja em dietas para larvas de Rhamdia quelen no crescimento, sobrevivência e morfologia intestinal. As larvas foram alimentadas durante 20 dias com cinco dietas experimentais: uma dieta controle formulada com 57% de levedura de pão e quatro dietas em que o farelo de soja foi adicionado em 14,25, 28,5, 42,75 e 57% para obter 25, 50, 75 e 100% de substituição de levedura de pão. As variáveis de crescimento e sobrevivência foram negativamente afetadas pela inclusão da soja na dieta. As larvas alimentadas com a dieta controle apresentaram maior peso médio, taxa de crescimento específico, biomassa final e sobrevivência, diferindo significativamente dos demais tratamentos. A altura dos enterócitos e a largura das pregas no intestino posterior apresentaram valores mais elevados no grupo controle, enquanto nos demais tratamentos mostraram uma relação linear inversa com o nível de inclusão de farelo de soja na dieta. No entanto, no intestino anterior, os parâmetros morfológicos não foram afetados pela dieta. Esses resultados indicam que a inclusão de farelo de soja em dietas para larvas de R. quelen afeta negativamente o crescimento e sobrevivência, bem como a capacidade de digestão e absorção de nutrientes, principalmente no intestino posterior.

Chromosomal analyses in Megalonema platanum (Siluriformes: Pimelodidae), an endangered species from South American rivers

Este estudo apresenta dados cromossômicos de Megalonema platanum do rio Tibagi, Paraná, Brasil e do rio Paraná, Argentina. O número diploide foi igual 54 com composição cariotípica de 24m+16sm+2st+12a em ambas populações. Os sítios AgNORs foram detectados na posição terminal de um par submetacêntrico das duas populações analisadas, coincidindo com constrição secundária no braço curto do par 15. CMA3 e FISH com sonda de DNAr 18S exibiram sinais fluorescentes que correspondem aos sítios AgNORs e à constrição secundária. A presença de um pequeno cromossomo supranumerário acrocêntrico foi observado em M. platanum do rio Tibagi, com heterocromatina centromérica. Outros blocos heterocromáticos foram evidenciados na posição terminal de alguns cromossomos e um par cromossômico submetacêntrico grande, provavelmente o primeiro par, mostrou heterocromatina intersticial. Na população do rio Paraná foram observados ainda blocos heterocromáticos em ambas regiões terminais em alguns cromossomos. Este trabalho mostra pela primeira vez dados citogenéticos de M. platanum, que é uma espécie muito rara na bacia do rio Paraná e pode estar ameaçada de extinção.

This study presents chromosomal data of Megalonema platanum from rio Tibagi, Paraná, Brazil and from rio Paraná, Argentina. The diploid number was equal 54 with karyotype composition of 24m+16sm+2st+12a in both populations. The AgNOR siteswere detected in the terminal position of a submetacentric pair of the two analyzed populations, coinciding with secondary constrictions on the short arm of pair 15. CMA3 and FISH with 18S rDNA probe displayed fluorescent signals that correspond to the AgNOR sites and secondary constriction. The presence of a small acrocentric supernumerary chromosome can be observed in M. platanum from rio Tibagi, with centromeric heterochromatin. Others heterochromatic blocks were evidenced in the terminal position of some chromosome and one metacentric large chromosome pair, probably the first pair, showed an interstitial heterochromatin. In the population of the rio Paraná were still observed heterochromatic blocks in both ends in some chromosomes. This work brings for the first time cytogenetic date of M. platanum, which is a very rare species in the rio Paraná basin and may be endangered.

Duração da larvicultura sobre o desempenho posterior de juvenis de jundiá, Rhamdia quelen, recriados em tanques-rede / Hatchery duration influence on posterior performance of jundiá fingerlings, Rhamdia quelen, reared in cages

Realizou-se um experimento fatorial 3x2, com três repetições (n=18), a fim de avaliar o crescimento e a sobrevivência de juvenis de jundiá (Rhamdia quelen) recriados em tanques-rede e dispostos em tanques externos até os 65 dias de vida. Os peixes utilizados provêm de um sistema de larvicultura intensiva, em que foram alimentados em laboratório com três rações diferentes até os 10 e 15 dias de vida, antes de serem transferidos para os tanques-rede. Uma vez nos tanques-rede, os peixes foram alimentados até a saciedade com ração balanceada comercial contendo 28 por cento de proteína bruta. Ao final do ensaio, não foram observadas diferenças significativas entre os tratamentos para nenhum dos parâmetros estimados (P>0,05). Da mesma maneira, os valores de crescimento e sobrevivência obtidos foram similares entre os grupos de peixes transferidos aos 10 e 15 dias de vida. Os resultados demonstram que a passagem das larvas de jundiá para os tanques-rede de recria aos 10 dias de vida seria o manejo mais recomendável, diminuindo os custos da alimentação e operativos que implicam o estágio de larvicultura sob condições controladas de laboratório.

A 3x2 factorial trial with three replicates (n=18) was carried out aiming to evaluate Rhamdia quelen fingerling growth and survival rates, stocked in cages, in external ponds until attain 65 days of life. Fish used come from an intensive hatchery system, where were fed in laboratory with three different diets until attain 10 and 15 days old, before being transferred to cages. Once in cages, fishes were fed until satiation with commercial balanced diet containing 28 percent crude protein. At the end of the experience, there were no significant differences between treatments for any of the estimated parameters (P> 0.05). Similarly, the values of growth and survival obtained were similar between the groups of fish transferred with 10 and 15 days old. The results show that transference of 10 days old catfish larvae to the cages would be the more appropriate management, reducing feeding and operating costs that involves the larviculture under controlled laboratory conditions.

Fontes não-convencionais de proteína na primeira alimentação do bagre sul americano (Rhamdia quelen) / Unconventional protein sources in the first feeding of South American catfish (Rhamdia quelen)

O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar diferentes fontes de proteína na primeira alimentação de jundiá (Rhamdia quelen) sob condições de laboratório. Foram testadas três rações balanceadas secas: ovo de peixe (TA), hidrolisado de carcaça do peixe (TB) e fígado de frango cru (TC), na quais foram analisadas, pelo crescimento, a biomassa final produzida e a sobrevivência das larvas. O ensaio teve uma duração de 20 dias, e as rações foram fornecidas ad libitum. As larvas alimentadas com ovo de peixe apresentaram os melhores resultados com peso médio individual de 340mg, sobrevivência de 57 por cento e biomassa final de 1.350mg, diferindo significativamente dos demais tratamentos. Os resultados indicaram que a formulação de rações balanceadas com ovos de peixes fornecida na primeira alimentação de larvas de jundiá pode tornar-se uma alternativa promissora na larvicultura dessa espécie.

This study aimed to evaluate different proteins sources in first feeding of jundiá (Rhamdia quelen) under laboratory conditions. Three balanced dry rations were tested, fish roe (TA), biological fish silage (TB) and crude chicken liver (TC) evaluating specific growth rate, final biomass produced and survival rate. The experiment was performed in 20 days, and all the rations were provided ad libitum. Larvae fed with fish roe presented better results, with 340mg of individual mean weight, 57 percent of survival rate and 1.350mg of final biomass, differing significantly with the other treatments. The results show that the inclusion of fish roe in balanced rations offered at the first feeding of jundiá larvae may become a promising alternative for the hatchering of the species.