Characterization of Chilean hot spring-origin Staphylococcus sp. BSP3 produced exopolysaccharide as biological additive.

A type of high molecular weight bioactive polymers called exopolysaccharides (EPS) are produced by thermophiles, the extremophilic microbes that thrive in acidic environmental conditions of hot springs with excessively warm temperatures. Over time, EPS became important as natural biotechnological additives because of their noncytotoxic, emulsifying, antioxidant, or immunostimulant activities. In this article, we unravelled a new EPS produced by Staphylococcus sp. BSP3 from an acidic (pH 6.03) San Pedro hot spring (38.1 °C) located in the central Andean mountains in Chile. Several physicochemical techniques were performed to characterize the EPS structure including Scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Gel permeation chromatography (GPC), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), 1D Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). It was confirmed that the amorphous surface of the BSP3 EPS, composed of rough pillar-like nanostructures, is evenly distributed. The main EPS monosaccharide constituents were mannose (72%), glucose (24%) and galactose (4%). Also, it is a medium molecular weight (43.7 kDa) heteropolysaccharide. NMR spectroscopy demonstrated the presence of a [→ 6)-⍺-D-Manp-(1 → 6)-⍺-D-Manp-(1 →] backbone 2-O substituted with 1-⍺-D-Manp. A high thermal stability of EPS (287 °C) was confirmed by TGA analysis. Emulsification, antioxidant, flocculation, water-holding (WHC), and oil-holding (OHC) capacities are also studied for biotechnological industry applications. The results demonstrated that BSP3 EPS could be used as a biodegradable material for different purposes, like flocculation and natural additives in product formulation.

[Studies of sleep and therapeutic actions in children and adolescents with craniofacial anomalies]. / Estudios de sueño y conducta terapéutica en niños y adolescentes con alteraciones craneofaciales.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the presence of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) in children with craniofacial anomalies (CFA), associate biodemographic characteristics and polygraph variables, and analyze the therapeutic management decided after the sleep study and the evaluation by a multidisciplinary team. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Retrospective study. Polygraphs were performed on patients aged between 1 month and 19 years with CFA. An initial and projected management was established categorized into ventilatory support, tracheostomy, surgery, dental, and medical treatment. Descrip tive and inferential statistics were performed, evaluating the association between demographic and polygraph variables and therapeutic management. RESULTS: 34 patients were included with a median age of 4.0 years (IQR 0.9 - 6.5). Diagnosis was 41.2% cleft lip and palate, 35.3% craniosynostosis, and 23.5% micrognathia. Polygraphs were altered in 70.6% of the cases; of these, 26.5% were diagnosed as mild, 5.9% moderate, and 38.2% severe OSAS. There was an association between minimum satu ration and diagnosis of OSAS (p = 0.0036), and in the presence of OSAS with the initial management applied (p=0.0013). There was no significant relationship between the different types of CFA with the initial therapeutic management (p = 0.6565). Initial and projected managements, respectively: Venti latory support (11.8% and 2.9%), tracheostomy (11.8% and 0%), surgery (35.2% and 26.5%), dental (20.6% and 53%), and medical treatment (20.6% and 17.6 %). CONCLUSIONS: 70% of the patients with CFA presented OSAS. The greatest severity was found in Cleft Lip and Palatine and Craniosynostosis. Therapeutic management was mainly oriented towards initial surgical and planned dental treatments based on the diagnosis of OSAS and not on the type of CFA.

Optimization and Characterization of a Novel Exopolysaccharide from Bacillus haynesii CamB6 for Food Applications.

Extremophilic microorganisms often produce novel bioactive compounds to survive under harsh environmental conditions. Exopolysaccharides (EPSs), a constitutive part of bacterial biofilm, are functional biopolymers that act as a protecting sheath to the extremophilic bacteria and are of high industrial value. In this study, we elucidate a new EPS produced by thermophilic Bacillus haynesii CamB6 from a slightly acidic (pH 5.82) Campanario hot spring (56.4 °C) located in the Central Andean Mountains of Chile. Physicochemical properties of the EPS were characterized by different techniques: Scanning electron microscopy- energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Gel permeation chromatography (GPC), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), 1D and 2D Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The EPS demonstrated amorphous surface roughness composed of evenly distributed macromolecular lumps. GPC and HPLC analysis showed that the EPS is a low molecular weight heteropolymer composed of mannose (66%), glucose (20%), and galactose (14%). FTIR analysis demonstrated the polysaccharide nature (-OH groups, Acetyl groups, and pyranosic ring structure) and the presence of different glycosidic linkages among sugar residues, which was further confirmed by NMR spectroscopic analyses. Moreover, D-mannose α-(1→2) and α-(1→4) linkages prevail in the CamB6 EPS structure. TGA revealed the high thermal stability (240 °C) of the polysaccharide. The functional properties of the EPS were evaluated for food industry applications, specifically as an antioxidant and for its emulsification, water-holding (WHC), oil-holding (OHC), and flocculation capacities. The results suggest that the study EPS can be a useful additive for the food-processing industry.

Brain immunity response of fish Eleginops maclovinus to infection with Francisella noatunensis.

The brain's immune system is selective and hermetic in most species, including fish, favoring immune responses mediated by soluble immunomodulatory factors such as serotonin and the availability of nutrients against infectious processes. Francisella noatunensis coexist with fish such as Eleginops maclovinus, which raises questions about the susceptibility and immune response of the brain of E. maclovinus against Francisella. In this study, we inoculated fish with different doses of Francisella and took samples for 28 days. We detected bacteria in the brain of fish injected with a high concentration of Francisella at all time points. qPCR analysis of immune genes indicated a response mainly in the medium-dose and early expression of genes involved in iron metabolism. Finally, brain serotonin levels were higher than in uninfected fish in all conditions, suggesting possible immunomodulatory participation in an infectious process.

Human Activity in Antarctica: Effects on Metallic Trace Elements (MTEs) in Plants and Soils.

Colobanthus quitensis (Kunt) is one of the two vascular plant species present in Antarctica and develops under severe environmental conditions, being found in both pristine and human-threatened environments. We determined the Cd, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn levels in C. quitensis roots, leaves, and soils of origin using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. In January 2017, we collected samples from four geographical zones on the longitudinal gradient along which C. quitensis is distributed, starting from Punta Arenas (PAR) at the extreme south of mainland Chile and moving southwards to the Antarctic territory from King George Island (KGI) to Hannah Point Peninsula (PHA) and finally Lagotellerie Island (LAT). We used certified reference material to validate the plant tissues and soil samples we collected. The highest concentrations of metals that we measured in the soils and in the C. quitensis roots and leaves were in samples we collected at the KGI station, the zone with the greatest human activity. The lowest concentrations we measured were at the LAT station, an island with little human intervention and scarce fauna. The mean concentrations of metals in the roots and leaves of C. quitensis followed a similar order at all sampling locations: Mn > Zn > Cu > Ni > Pb > Cr > Cd. In contrast, in soil, they followed the following order: Mn > Zn > Cu > Cr > Pb > Ni > Cd. The concentration levels obtained for the different metals in the soil and plants tissue samples in this region of Antarctica indicated that the area was non-polluted. However, the metallic trace element (MTE) concentrations may be at an early stage of contamination, as described in other areas of the Antarctic, being a new threat to this continent.

Experiencia de una Unidad de Ventilación Mecánica Pediátrica Prolongada en un hospital público de Chile / Experience in a Pediatric Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation Unit from a public hospital in Chile

Introducción: Los pacientes hospitalizados con altas dependencias tecnológicas respiratorias son cada vez más frecuentes y generan largas estadías en unidades de cuidados intensivos. Las estrategias que mitiguen su impacto han sido escasamente descritas. Objetivo: Describir 6 años de experiencia de una Unidad de Ventilación Mecánica Prolongada Pediátrica.Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo. Se incluyeron todos los niños ingresados a la Unidad entre 10-2012 y 12-2018. Se realizó estadística descriptiva e inferencial, analizando tiempos de hospitalización y reingresos. Se compararon distintas variables según tipo de patología y ventilación mecánica.Resultados: 113 pacientes registraron 310 ingresos a la Unidad. Edad de ingreso: 2,2 años (0,6-8,8); varones: el 60,2 %. Patologías: enfermedad neuromuscular (el 22,1 %), enfermedad pulmonar crónica (el 20,4 %), daño neurológico (el 34,5 %), obstrucción de vía aérea superior (el 9,7 %), cardiopatía (el 3,5 %), síndrome de Down (el 9,7 %). Se utilizaron 10 507 días/cama; con índice ocupacional del 92,6 %, el 54,8 % de traslados a la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos y el 66,1 % de reingresos. Hospitalización media: 16 días (6,5-49,0); diferencias en edad de ingreso según patologías (p = 0,032). Hubo más reingresos en niños con daño neurológico y síndrome de Down (p = 0,004). Los niños con asistencia ventilatoria invasiva presentaron más días de hospitalización (p < 0,001) y reingresos (p < 0,001).Conclusión: El índice ocupacional fue superior al 90 %; permitió mayor disponibilidad de camas intensivas y egresar a todos los pacientes. Los niños con asistencia ventilatoria invasiva se hospitalizaron más tiempo y reingresaron más

Introduction: Hospitalized patients with high respiratory technology dependency are increasingly common and result in lengthy stays in intensive care units. Strategies mitigating its impact have been scarcely described.Objective: To describe a 6-year experience in a Pediatric Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation Unit.Methods: Retrospective study. All children admitted to the unit between October 2012 and December 2018 were included. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used, analyzing lengths of stay and readmissions. Different outcome measures were compared according to the type of pathology and mechanical ventilation.Results: A total of 113 patients had 310 admissions to the unit. Age at admission: 2.2 years (0.6-8.8); males: 60.2 %. Pathologies: neuromuscular disease (22.1 %), chronic lung disease (20.4 %), neurological damage (34.5 %), upper airway obstruction (9.7 %), heart disease (3.5 %), Down syndrome (9.7 %). A total of 10 507 bed-days were used; with a 92.6 % occupancy rate, 54.8 % of transfers to the intensive care unit, and 66.1 % of readmissions. Mean length of stay: 16 days (6.5-49.0); differences in age at admission observed by pathology (p = 0.032). More readmissions were observed in children with neurological damage and Down syndrome (p = 0.004). Children with invasive ventilation were observed to have a longer length of stay (p < 0.001) and more readmissions (p < 0.001).Conclusion: The occupancy rate at the PMVU was over 90 %, which allowed more available intensive care beds and discharging all patients. Children with invasive ventilation had a longer length of stay and more readmissions.

Visual field progression in patients with severe glaucoma.

PURPOSE: To assess the cumulative risk of progression in glaucomatous eyes in the severe stage of disease. METHODS: This was a retrospective observational study. Patients that had severe damage in at least one eye, as defined by three criteria including a mean deviation of ≤ - 20 dB, were included. Glaucoma progression was defined as a loss of ≥ 2 dB in mean deviation confirmed in three consecutive visual field tests, or a persistent loss of two or more lines of vision-not attributable to non-glaucomatous causes-in three consecutive follow-up examinations. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to assess the cumulative incidence of progression of the first eye to reach endpoint in cases where both eyes were eligible. RESULTS: A total of 143 eyes from 119 patients, were studied over a mean period of 4.9 ± 2.9 years. Baseline mean deviation was - 25.3 ± 3.6 dB. Twenty-three eyes of 22 patients reached the progression endpoint: 14 eyes by visual field criteria and 9 by visual acuity criteria. The cumulative 5-year risk of progression estimated by Kaplan-Meier analysis was 14.6% (95% confidence interval: 6.1-22.2%). CONCLUSIONS: In severe glaucoma patients, we found a cumulative incidence of progression of 2.9% per year during the first 5 years of follow-up. Similar incidences have been reported in other studies of glaucoma at different stages of severity.

Experience in a Pediatric Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation Unit from a public hospital in Chile. / Experiencia de una Unidad de Ventilación Mecánica Pediátrica Prolongada en un hospital público de Chile.

INTRODUCTION: Hospitalized patients with high respiratory technology dependency are increasingly common and result in lengthy stays in intensive care units. Strategies mitigating its impact have been scarcely described. OBJECTIVE: To describe a 6-year experience in a Pediatric Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation Unit. METHODS: Retrospective study. All children admitted to the unit between October 2012 and December 2018 were included. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used, analyzing lengths of stay and readmissions. Different outcome measures were compared according to the type of pathology and mechanical ventilation. RESULTS: A total of 113 patients had 310 admissions to the unit. Age at admission: 2.2 years (0.6-8.8); males: 60.2 %. PATHOLOGIES: neuromuscular disease (22.1 %), chronic lung disease (20.4 %), neurological damage (34.5 %), upper airway obstruction (9.7 %), heart disease (3.5 %), Down syndrome (9.7 %). A total of 10 507 bed-days were used; with a 92.6 % occupancy rate, 54.8 % of transfers to the intensive care unit, and 66.1 % of readmissions. Mean length of stay: 16 days (6.5- 49.0); differences in age at admission observed by pathology (p = 0.032). More readmissions were observed in children with neurological damage and Down syndrome (p = 0.004). Children with invasive ventilation were observed to have a longer length of stay (p < 0.001) and more readmissions (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The occupancy rate at the PMVU was over 90 %, which allowed more available intensive care beds and discharging all patients. Children with invasive ventilation had a longer length of stay and more readmissions.

Introducción: Los pacientes hospitalizados con altas dependencias tecnológicas respiratorias son cada vez más frecuentes y generan largas estadías en unidades de cuidados intensivos. Las estrategias que mitiguen su impacto han sido escasamente descritas. Objetivo: Describir 6 años de experiencia de una Unidad de Ventilación Mecánica Prolongada Pediátrica. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo. Se incluyeron todos los niños ingresados a la Unidad entre 10-2012 y 12-2018. Se realizó estadística descriptiva e inferencial, analizando tiempos de hospitalización y reingresos. Se compararon distintas variables según tipo de patología y ventilación mecánica. Resultados: 113 pacientes registraron 310 ingresos a la Unidad. Edad de ingreso: 2,2 años (0,6-8,8); varones: el 60,2 %. Patologías: enfermedad neuromuscular (el 22,1 %), enfermedad pulmonar crónica (el 20,4 %), daño neurológico (el 34,5 %), obstrucción de vía aérea superior (el 9,7 %), cardiopatía (el 3,5 %), síndrome de Down (el 9,7 %). Se utilizaron 10 507 días/cama; con índice ocupacional del 92,6 %, el 54,8 % de traslados a la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos y el 66,1 % de reingresos. Hospitalización media: 16 días (6,5-49,0); diferencias en edad de ingreso según patologías (p = 0,032). Hubo más reingresos en niños con daño neurológico y síndrome de Down (p = 0,004). Los niños con asistencia ventilatoria invasiva presentaron más días de hospitalización (p < 0,001) y reingresos (p < 0,001). Conclusión: El índice ocupacional fue superior al 90 %; permitió mayor disponibilidad de camas intensivas y egresar a todos los pacientes. Los niños con asistencia ventilatoria invasiva se hospitalizaron más tiempo y reingresaron más.

Programa de rehabilitación respiratoria infantil en un hospital público de Chile / Pediatric pulmonary rehabilitation program at a Chilean public hospital

Introducción. La rehabilitación respiratoria infantil es relevante en el manejo de enfermedades respiratorias crónicas. En Chile, se desarrolla solo en algunos hospitales.Objetivo. Describir los resultados de un programa de rehabilitación respiratoria infantil tras 3 meses de rehabilitación.Metodología. Estudio retrospectivo de los pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar crónica, enfermedad neuromuscular y otras patologías crónicas admitidos desde junio de 2011 a junio de 2017. Se realizó evaluación física general, evaluación de musculatura respiratoria y espirometría. Se planificó entrenamiento físico general y entrenamiento muscular respiratorio, con protocolos institucional, mixto y domiciliario.Resultados. Ingresaron al programa 156 pacientes (11,45 ± 3,55 años), 68 con enfermedad pulmonar crónica (11,56 ± 4,6 años, el 43,5 %), 45 con enfermedad neuromuscular (11,4 ± 3,7 años, el 28,8 %) y 43 con patologías crónicas diversas (11,31 ± 3,9 años). Del total, se entrenaron 102 (el 65,4 %); dirigido (n = 27), mixto (n = 23) y domiciliario (n = 50) con adherencia del 69 %, del 87,5 % y del 70 %, respectivamente. Aumentó el 19,3 % la presión inspiratoria máxima (p = 0,001), el 14,5 % la presión espiratoria máxima (p = 0,001), el 12,9 % la capacidad vital forzada (p = 0,001), el 11,6 % el volumen espiratorio forzado al primer segundo (p = 0,004) y 17,6 metros en el test de marcha de 6 minutos (p = 0,036) tras 3 meses de rehabilitación.Conclusiones. El protocolo de intervención incrementó el estatus funcional cardiorrespiratorio. La adherencia fue superior al 65 %.

Introduction. Pediatric pulmonary rehabilitation is relevant in the management of chronic respiratory diseases. In Chile, it is provided only at certain hospitals.Objective. To describe the outcomes of a pediatric pulmonary rehabilitation program after 3 months of rehabilitation.Methodology. Retrospective study of patients with chronic lung disease, neuromuscular disease, and other chronic conditions admitted to the program between June 2011 and June 2017. Assessments included general physical and respiratory muscle examination, and spirometry. General physical training and respiratory muscle training were planned according to facility-based, mixed and home protocols. Results. A total of 156 patients (11.45 ± 3.55 years old) were included, 68 had chronic lung disease (11.56 ± 4.6 years old, 43.5 %); 45, neuromuscular disease (11.4 ± 3.7 years old, 28.8 %); and 43, various chronic conditions (11.31 ± 3.9 years old). Out of all patients, 102 (65.4 %) followed training protocols; targeted (n = 27), mixed (n = 23), and home (n = 50); compliance was 69 %, 87.5 %, and 70 %, respectively. Peak inspiratory pressure increased by 19.3 % (p = 0.001); peak expiratory pressure,14.5 % (p = 0.001); forced vital capacity, 12.9 % (p = 0.001); forced expiratory volume in 1 second, 1.6 % (p = 0.004); and the six-minute walk test, 17.6 meters (p = 0.036) after 3 months of rehabilitation.Conclusions. The intervention protocol improved cardiorespiratory functional capacity. Compliance was over 65 %.

Pediatric pulmonary rehabilitation program at a Chilean public hospital. / Programa de rehabilitación respiratoria infantil en un hospital público de Chile.

INTRODUCTION: Pediatric pulmonary rehabilitation is relevant in the management of chronic respiratory diseases. In Chile, it is provided only at certain hospitals. Objective. To describe the outcomes of a pediatric pulmonary rehabilitation program after 3 months of rehabilitation. METHODOLOGY: Retrospective study of patients with chronic lung disease, neuromuscular disease, and other chronic conditions admitted to the program between June 2011 and June 2017. Assessments included general physical and respiratory muscle examination, and spirometry. General physical training and respiratory muscle training were planned according to facilitybased, mixed and home protocols. RESULTS: A total of 156 patients (11.45 ± 3.55 years old) were included, 68 had chronic lung disease (11.56 ± 4.6 years old, 43.5 %); 45, neuromuscular disease (11.4 ± 3.7 years old, 28.8 %); and 43, various chronic conditions (11.31 ± 3.9 years old). Out of all patients, 102 (65.4 %) followed training protocols; targeted (n = 27), mixed (n = 23), and home (n = 50); compliance was 69 %, 87.5 %, and 70 %, respectively. Peak inspiratory pressure increased by 19.3 % (p = 0.001); peak expiratory pressure, 14.5 % (p = 0.001); forced vital capacity, 12.9 % (p = 0.001); forced expiratory volume in 1 second, 11.6 % (p = 0.004); and the six-minute walk test, 17.6 meters (p = 0.036) after 3 months of rehabilitation. CONCLUSIONS: The intervention protocol improved cardiorespiratory functional capacity. Compliance was over 65 %.

Introducción. La rehabilitación respiratoria infantil es relevante en el manejo de enfermedades respiratorias crónicas. En Chile, se desarrolla solo en algunos hospitales. Objetivo. Describir los resultados de un programa de rehabilitación respiratoria infantil tras 3 meses de rehabilitación. Metodología. Estudio retrospectivo de los pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar crónica, enfermedad neuromuscular y otras patologías crónicas admitidos desde junio de 2011 a junio de 2017. Se realizó evaluación física general, evaluación de musculatura respiratoria y espirometría. Se planificó entrenamiento físico general y entrenamiento muscular respiratorio, con protocolos institucional, mixto y domiciliario. Resultados. Ingresaron al programa 156 pacientes (11,45 ± 3,55 años), 68 con enfermedad pulmonar crónica (11,56 ± 4,6 años, el 43,5 %), 45 con enfermedad neuromuscular (11,4 ± 3,7 años, el 28,8 %) y 43 con patologías crónicas diversas (11,31 ± 3,9 años). Del total, se entrenaron 102 (el 65,4 %); dirigido (n = 27), mixto (n = 23) y domiciliario (n = 50) con adherencia del 69 %, del 87,5 % y del 70 %, respectivamente. Aumentó el 19,3 % la presión inspiratoria máxima (p = 0,001), el 14,5 % la presión espiratoria máxima (p = 0,001), el 12,9 % la capacidad vital forzada (p = 0,001), el 11,6 % el volumen espiratorio forzado al primer segundo (p = 0,004) y 17,6 metros en el test de marcha de 6 minutos (p = 0,036) tras 3 meses de rehabilitación. Conclusiones. El protocolo de intervención incrementó el estatus funcional cardiorrespiratorio. La adherencia fue superior al 65 %.

[Pediatric polygraphy: A 6-year experience]. / Poligrafía pediátrica: Experiencia de 6 años.

INTRODUCTION: The early diagnosis of Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) may allow proper intervention. Currently, polygraphy (PG) is a reliable and accessible alternative. OBJECTIVE: To describe and analyze the PG of children > 1 year old with suspicion of SDB. PATIENTS AND METHOD: PG of children > 1 year old and adolescents from Concepcion, Chile, with suspected SDB were included, from December 2011 to Au gust 2017. Demographic, clinical and polygraphic variables were collected. It was used descriptive sta tistics, expressing results in median and range. The association between apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and oxygen saturation was determined by Spearman's Rho, considering significance of p < 0.05. Re sults: 190 studies were analyzed. Age 7.9 years old (1.0-20.6), 61% males. DIAGNOSIS: neuromuscular disease (NMD) (24.2%), chronic lung damage (21.1%), upper airway obstruction (UAO) (19.5%), neurological damage (11%), Down syndrome (8.9%), upper airway malformations (7.4%), central hypoventilation (3.7%), obesity (2.6%), and others (1.6%). 55.3% were altered PG, with 53.3% of mild Obstructive Sleep Apnea Hypopnea Syndrome (OSAHS), 30.5% moderate, and 16.2% severe. There were no significant differences in AHI between groups of pathologies (p = 0.032), highlighting a higher AHI in obese patients 9 (0.41-51), and those with NMD 23.9 (0.4-36.6). It was found asso ciation between AHI and oxygen saturation parameters: mean saturation (rho = -0.425; p = 0.001), minimum (rho = -0.654; p = 0.001), and oxygen saturation below 90% (rho = 0.323; p = 0.001) in the whole sample. DISCUSSION: There was a high percentage of OSAHS in at-risk pediatric patients, especially in those with NMD and obesity. PG is an accessible and implementable tool in a public hospital, a situation that can potentially be extrapolated to other healthcare centers.

Poligrafía pediátrica: experiencia de 6 años / Pediatric polygraphy: a 6-year experience

INTRODUCCIÓN: El diagnóstico precoz de los Trastornos Respiratorios del Sueño (TRS) puede permitir una intervención oportuna. La poligrafía (PG) es una alternativa confiable y accesible en la actualidad. OBJETIVO: Describir y analizar PG de niños > 1 año con sospecha de TRS. PACIENTES Y MÉTODO: Se incluyeron PG de niños y adolescentes > 1 año de edad con sospecha de TRS, desde diciembre de 2011 hasta agosto de 2017 provenientes de la ciudad de Concepcion, Chile. Se recopilaron datos demo gráficos, clínicos y variables poligráficas. Estadística descriptiva, expresando resultados en mediana y rango. Se determinó asociación entre índice de apnea hipopnea (IAH) y saturación mediante Rho de Spearman; considerando significancia p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: Se analizaron 190 estudios. Edad 7,9 años (1,0-20,6), varones 61%. Diagnósticos: enfermedades neuromusculares (ENM) (24,2%), daño pulmonar crónico (21,1%), obstrucción de vía aérea superior (OVAS) (19,5%), daño neurológico (11%), síndrome de Down (8,9%) malformaciones VAS (7,4%), hipoventilación central (3,7%), obesidad (2,6%) y otros (1,6%). El 55,3% de las PG resultaron alteradas; síndrome de apnea hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS) leve en 53,3%, moderado 30,5% y severo 16,2%. No se observaron diferencias significativas en IAH entre grupos de patologías (p = 0,032), destacando un mayor IAH en Obesidad 9,0 (0,41-51) y ENM 23,9 (0,4-36,6). Se constató asociación entre IAH y parámetros de saturación; saturación promedio (rho = -0,425; p = 0,001); mínima (rho = -0,654; p = 0,001); y saturación bajo 90% (rho = 0,323; p = 0,001) en la totalidad de la muestra. DISCUSIÓN: Existió un alto porcentaje de SAHOS en pacientes pediátricos de riesgo, en especial en aquellos con ENM y obesidad. La PG es una herramienta accesible e implementable en un hospital público; situación potencialmente extrapolable a otros centros asistenciales.

INTRODUCTION: The early diagnosis of Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) may allow proper intervention. Currently, polygraphy (PG) is a reliable and accessible alternative. OBJECTIVE: To describe and analyze the PG of children > 1 year old with suspicion of SDB. PATIENTS AND METHOD: PG of children > 1 year old and adolescents from Concepcion, Chile, with suspected SDB were included, from December 2011 to August 2017. Demographic, clinical and polygraphic variables were collected. It was used descriptive sta tistics, expressing results in median and range. The association between apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and oxygen saturation was determined by Spearman's Rho, considering significance of p < 0.05. RESULTS: 190 studies were analyzed. Age 7.9 years old (1.0-20.6), 61% males. Diagnosis: neuromuscular disease (NMD) (24.2%), chronic lung damage (21.1%), upper airway obstruction (UAO) (19.5%), neurological damage (11%), Down syndrome (8.9%), upper airway malformations (7.4%), central hypoventilation (3.7%), obesity (2.6%), and others (1.6%). 55.3% were altered PG, with 53.3% of mild Obstructive Sleep Apnea Hypopnea Syndrome (OSAHS), 30.5% moderate, and 16.2% severe. There were no significant differences in AHI between groups of pathologies (p = 0.032), highlighting a higher AHI in obese patients 9 (0.41-51), and those with NMD 23.9 (0.4-36.6). It was found asso ciation between AHI and oxygen saturation parameters: mean saturation (rho = -0.425; p = 0.001), minimum (rho = -0.654; p = 0.001), and oxygen saturation below 90% (rho = 0.323; p = 0.001) in the whole sample. DISCUSSION: There was a high percentage of OSAHS in at-risk pediatric patients, especially in those with NMD and obesity. PG is an accessible and implementable tool in a public hospital, a situation that can potentially be extrapolated to other healthcare centers.

Synthesis of citrophilus mealybug sex pheromone using chrysanthemol extracted from Pyrethrum ( Tanacetum cinerariifolium).

A commercial pyrethrum extract was used as a source of chrysanthemol for the synthesis of the citrophilus mealybug ( Pseudococcus calceolariae) sex pheromone. The chrysanthemic acid esters (pyrethrins I) were isolated and subsequently reduced to obtain chrysanthemol, which was used for ester pheromone synthesis. Field tests showed that the pheromone synthesized using plant-derived chrysanthemol was as attractive to male P. calceolariae as the pheromone obtained using a commercial isomeric chrysanthemol mixture.

Efecto de un enfoque estandarizado para el manejo de lactantes hospitalizados por eventos aparentemente letales / Effect of a standardized approach on infants hospitalized for apparent life threatening events

Introducción. Los eventos aparentemente letales (Apparent Life-Threatening Event, ALTE) son causa frecuente de hospitalización en lactantes. Hay poca información sobre el enfoque estandarizado para establecer su etiología, a pesar de que un diagnóstico causal correcto puede afectar la evolución clínica, la duración de la hospitalización y los recursos sanitarios. Objetivo. Comparar los efectos del enfoque diagnóstico estandarizado en lactantes hospitalizados por este tipo de eventos. Materiales y métodos. Se hizo un estudio retrospectivo de cohorte con base en los datos recolectados de las historias clínicas de lactantes hospitalizados por esta causa en el servicio de pediatría entre el 2002 y el 2009. Se analizaron dos cohortes de pacientes agrupados según su manejo: la cohorte 1, con guías clínicas, y la cohorte 2, con guías clínicas, protocolo de estudio y seguimiento ambulatorio. Se compararon los grupos en cuanto a la etiología, el tiempo de hospitalización y la tasa de nuevas hospitalizaciones. Resultados. De los 255 lactantes hospitalizados por eventos aparentemente letales, el 57,6 % integró la cohorte 1 y, el 42,3 %, la cohorte 2. No se observaron diferencias en cuanto a la edad y el sexo. En la cohorte 2 se observó un mayor porcentaje de causas atribuidas (63,9 Vs. 87,0; p<0,0001), y un menor tiempo de hospitalización (8,0 Vs. 5,0 días; p=0,0001). No hubo diferencias en cuanto a nuevas hospitalizaciones (10,5 Vs. 8,3 días; p=0,7435). Conclusiones. El enfoque del manejo de lactantes afectados por eventos aparente letales basado en protocolos, se asoció con un mayor porcentaje de reconocimiento de las causas atribuidas y con un menor período de hospitalización. A partir de estos resultados es posible sugerir la implementación de este tipo de estandarización para el manejo de dichos pacientes.

Introduction: An apparent life-threatening event (ALTE) is a frequent cause of hospitalization in infants. However, there is little evidence about the existence of a standardized approach to discover the main etiology, although a correct causal diagnosis can affect clinical evolution, hospital stay, and health resources. Objective: To determine the effects of a standardized diagnostic approach in infants admitted with ALTE. Materials and methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study with the data collected from clinical records of infants hospitalized for ALTE in the pediatric unit between 2002 and 2009. Two cohorts of patients were analyzed according to the procedures defined for these cases: Cohort 1 with clinical guidelines and cohort 2 with clinical guidelines, study protocol, and outpatient follow-up. Etiological causes, hospitalization periods and readmission rates were compared between both cohorts. Results: Of the 255 infants hospitalized for ALTE, 57.6% corresponded to cohort 1 and 42.3% to cohort 2. No differences were observed in age and gender between groups. The highest percentage of attributed causes (63.9 vs 87.0%; p<0.0001) and a shorter period of hospitalization (8.0 vs 5.0 days; p=0, 0001) were observed in cohort 2. No differences in hospital readmission were observed (10.5 vs 8.3 days; p=0.7435). Conclusions: The protocol-based approach for infants with EAL was associated with a higher percentage of recognition of attributed causes and a shorter hospitalization period. Therefore, our results allow recommending this type of standardization for the management of these patients.

Effect of a standardized approach on infants hospitalized for apparent life threatening events / Efecto de un enfoque estandarizado para el manejo de lactantes hospitalizados por eventos aparentemente letales.

Introduction: An apparent life-threatening event (ALTE) is a frequent cause of hospitalization in infants. However, there is little evidence about the existence of a standardized approach to discover the main etiology, although a correct causal diagnosis can affect clinical evolution, hospital stay, and health resources. Objective: To determine the effects of a standardized diagnostic approach in infants admitted with ALTE. Materials and methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study with the data collected from clinical records of infants hospitalized for ALTE in the pediatric unit between 2002 and 2009. Two cohorts of patients were analyzed according to the procedures defined for these cases: Cohort 1 with clinical guidelines and cohort 2 with clinical guidelines, study protocol, and outpatient follow-up. Etiological causes, hospitalization periods and readmission rates were compared between both cohorts. Results: Of the 255 infants hospitalized for ALTE, 57.6% corresponded to cohort 1 and 42.3% to cohort 2. No differences were observed in age and gender between groups. The highest percentage of attributed causes (63.9 vs 87.0%; p<0.0001) and a shorter period of hospitalization (8.0 vs 5.0 days; p=0, 0001) were observed in cohort 2. No differences in hospital readmission were observed (10.5 vs 8.3 days; p=0.7435). Conclusions: The protocol-based approach for infants with EAL was associated with a higher percentage of recognition of attributed causes and a shorter hospitalization period. Therefore, our results allow recommending this type of standardization for the management of these patients.

Introducción. Los eventos aparentemente letales (Apparent Life-Threatening Event, ALTE) son causa frecuente de hospitalización en lactantes. Hay poca información sobre el enfoque estandarizado para establecer su etiología, a pesar de que un diagnóstico causal correcto puede afectar la evolución clínica, la duración de la hospitalización y los recursos sanitarios.Objetivo. Comparar los efectos del enfoque diagnóstico estandarizado en lactantes hospitalizados por este tipo de eventos.Materiales y métodos. Se hizo un estudio retrospectivo de cohorte con base en los datos recolectados de las historias clínicas de lactantes hospitalizados por esta causa en el servicio de pediatría entre el 2002 y el 2009. Se analizaron dos cohortes de pacientes agrupados según su manejo: la cohorte 1, con guías clínicas, y la cohorte 2, con guías clínicas, protocolo de estudio y seguimiento ambulatorio. Se compararon los grupos en cuanto a la etiología, el tiempo de hospitalización y la tasa de nuevas hospitalizaciones.Resultados. De los 255 lactantes hospitalizados por eventos aparentemente letales, el 57,6 % integró la cohorte 1 y, el 42,3 %, la cohorte 2. No se observaron diferencias en cuanto a la edad y el sexo. En la cohorte 2 se observó un mayor porcentaje de causas atribuidas (63,9 Vs. 87,0; p<0,0001), y un menor tiempo de hospitalización (8,0 Vs. 5,0 días; p=0,0001). No hubo diferencias en cuanto a nuevas hospitalizaciones (10,5 Vs. 8,3 días; p=0,7435).Conclusiones. El enfoque del manejo de lactantes afectados por eventos aparente letales basado en protocolos, se asoció con un mayor porcentaje de reconocimiento de las causas atribuidas y con un menor período de hospitalización. A partir de estos resultados es posible sugerir la implementación de este tipo de estandarización para el manejo de dichos pacientes.

Effects of local land-use on riparian vegetation, water quality, and the functional organization of macroinvertebrate assemblages.

Land-use change is a principal factor affecting riparian vegetation and river biodiversity. In Chile, land-use change has drastically intensified over the last decade, with native forests converted to exotic forest plantations and agricultural land. However, the effects thereof on aquatic ecosystems are not well understood. Closing this knowledge gap first requires understanding how human perturbations affect riparian and stream biota. Identified biological indicators could then be applied to determine the health of fluvial ecosystems. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of land-use change on the health of riparian and aquatic ecosystems by assessing riparian vegetation, water quality, benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages, and functional feeding groups. Twenty-one sites in catchment areas with different land-uses (i.e. pristine forests, native forests, exotic forest plantations, and agricultural land) were selected and sampled during the 2010 to 2012 dry seasons. Riparian vegetation quality was highest in pristine forests. Per the modified Macroinvertebrate Family Biotic Index for Chilean species, the best conditions existed in native forests and the worst in agricultural catchments. Water quality and macroinvertebrate assemblages significantly varied across land-use areas, with forest plantations and agricultural land having high nutrient concentrations, conductivity, suspended solids, and apparent color. Macroinvertebrate assemblage diversity was lowest for agricultural and exotic forest plantation catchments, with notable non-insect representation. Collector-gatherers were the most abundant functional feeding group, suggesting importance independent of land-use. Land-use areas showed no significant differences in functional feeding groups. In conclusion, anthropogenic land-use changes were detectable through riparian quality, water quality, and macroinvertebrate assemblages, but not through functional feeding groups. These data, particularly the riparian vegetation and macroinvertebrate assemblage parameters, could be applied towards the conservation and management of riparian ecosystems through land-use change studies.

Involvement of SchRabGDI1 from Solanum chilense in endocytic trafficking and tolerance to salt stress.

Physiological responses of plants to salinity stress requires the coordinated activation of many genes. A salt-induced gene was isolated from roots of the wild tomato species Solanum chilense and named SchRabGDI1 because it encodes a protein with high identity to GDP dissociation inhibitors of plants. These proteins are regulators of the RabGTPase cycle that play key roles in intracellular vesicular trafficking. The expression pattern of SchRabGDI1 showed an early up-regulation in roots and leaves under salt stress. Functional activity of SchRabGDI1 was shown by restoring the defective phenotype of the yeast sec19-1 mutant and the capacity of SchRabGDI1 to interact with RabGTPase was demonstrated through BiFC assays. Expression of SchRabGDI1 in Arabidopsis thaliana plants resulted in increased salt tolerance. Also, the root cells of transgenic plants showed higher rate of endocytosis under normal growth conditions and higher accumulation of sodium in vacuoles and small vesicular structures under salt stress than wild type. Our results suggest that in salt tolerant species such as S. chilense, bulk endocytosis is one of the early mechanisms to avoid salt stress, which requires the concerted expression of regulatory genes involved in vesicular trafficking of the endocytic pathway.

[Polygraphy in hospitalized children under 3 months]. / Poligrafía en menores de 3 meses hospitalizados.

Apnea and apparently lethal events have great etiological diversity thus complementary tests may help diagnosis. The aim of this study was to describe the results of polygraph studies of children under 3 months hospitalized with suspected apnea. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective case series. Children under 3 months with suspected apnea were considered and in whom a polygraphy (PG) was performed during hospitalization. General data, the apnea/hypopnea index (AHI), index of central. apnea, obstructive apnea index, average and minimum saturation were recorded. Desaturation index (ID) below 80% higher 1 per hour, one or more events of desaturation below 80% for more than 20 seconds or an AHI greater than or equal 1 were considered as criteria of sleep disorder breathing (SLB). Descriptive analysis was performed and the associations between AHI and saturation parameters were determined. RESULTS: 51 patients, 32 males, entered the study. 15,6% had altered PG. In 5 of them coexisted more than one diagnostic criterion. Iin 15,6% of the patients was observed an IAH greater 1, in 7.8% a desaturation index below 80% and in 11,8% a desaturation index under 80% for 20 seconds greater than 1. The AHI was associated with the parameters of saturation. CONCLUSION: Most of the patients had normal PG and among patients with a suggestive SLB a pattern of respiratory immaturity prevailed, which is characteristic of this age.

Poligrafía en menores de 3 meses hospitalizados / Polygraphy in hospitalized children under 3 months

La apnea y eventos aparentemente letales poseen una gran diversidad etiológica por tanto exámenes complementarios podrían contribuir a su diagnóstico. El objetivo del presente estudio fue describir los resultados de estudios poligráficos de niños menores de 3 meses hospitalizados con sospecha de apnea. PACIENTES Y MÉTODO: Serie retrospectiva de casos. Se consideraron niños menores de 3 meses con sospecha de apnea y en quienes se realizó una poligrafía (PG) durante su hospitalización. Se registraron datos generales, así como también, el índice de apnea/hipopnea (IAH), índice de apnea central, índice de apnea obstructiva, saturación promedio y mínima. Como criterios de trastornos respiratorios del sueño (TRS) fueron considerados: índice de desaturaciones (ID) por debajo de 80% mayor 1 por hora; uno o más eventos de desaturaciones por debajo de 80% por más de 20 segundos; o un IAH mayor o igual 1. Se realizó estadística descriptiva y se determinó la posible asociación entre el IAH y parámetros de saturación. RESULTADOS: Ingresaron 51 pacientes, 32 varones. 8 (15,6%) presento PG alteradas, de ellos, en 5 coexistió más de un criterio diagnóstico. En el 15,6% se observó un IAH mayor o igual a 1, en el 7,8% se observó un índice de desaturación bajo 80% y en el 11,8% un índice de desaturación bajo 80% por más de 20 segundos. El IAH se asoció con los parámetros de saturación. CONCLUSIÓN: La mayoría de los pacientes presentó PG normales y entre los pacientes con TRS predominó un patrón poligráfico sugerente de inmadurez respiratoria, lo cual, es característico de esta edad.

Apnea and apparently lethal events have great etiological diversity thus complementary tests may help diagnosis. The aim of this study was to describe the results of polygraph studies of children under 3 months hospitalized with suspected apnea. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective case series. Children under 3 months with suspected apnea were considered and in whom a polygraphy (PG) was performed during hospitalization. General data, the apnea/hypopnea index (AHI), index of central. apnea, obstructive apnea index, average and minimum saturation were recorded. Desaturation index (ID) below 80% higher 1 per hour, one or more events of desaturation below 80% for more than 20 seconds or an AHI greater than or equal 1 were considered as criteria of sleep disorder breathing (SLB). Descriptive analysis was performed and the associations between AHI and saturation parameters were determined. RESULTS: 51 patients, 32 males, entered the study. 15,6% had altered PG. In 5 of them coexisted more than one diagnostic criterion. Iin 15,6% of the patients was observed an IAH greater 1, in 7.8% a desaturation index below 80% and in 11,8% a desaturation index under 80% for 20 seconds greater than 1. The AHI was associated with the parameters of saturation. CONCLUSION: Most of the patients had normal PG and among patients with a suggestive SLB a pattern of respiratory immaturity prevailed, which is characteristic of this age.