Daños de salud respiratoria en comunas expuestas a centrales termoeléctricas a carbón en el norte de Chile: análisis de datos secundarios / Respiratory health damage in communes exposed to coal-fired power plants in northern Chile

INTRODUCCIÓN: En Chile, el funcionamiento de las Centrales Termoeléctricas de Carbón (CTEC) representan un problema de salud pública debido a las consecuencias sanitarias que tienen en la población. Se han notificado daños en el sistema respiratorio. Materiales y MÉTODOS: Se realizó un estudio ecológico, para evaluar los egresos hospitalarios de las personas que viven en las ciudades donde operan las CTEC (Tocopilla y Huasco), se comparó con una ciudad de control sin CTEC (Caldera), las comunas evaluadas tienen condiciones sociodemográficas similares. Se calcularon las tasas de morbilidad y tasas de morbilidad estandarizadas (SMR). RESULTADOS: La tasa de morbilidad por enfermedades respiratorias en Tocopilla (2016) fue de 152,5 por 10.000 habitantes (habs) y para Huasco es de 135,2 por 10.000 habs. En la ciudad control, Caldera, la tasa es de 40,9 por 10.000 habs. Además, los habitantes de Tocopilla tienen 2,42 más riesgo de padecer bronquitis o bronquiolitis, 90% más riesgo de presentar enfermedades crónicas de las vías respiratorias bajas y 2,14 veces más riesgo de enfermar por asma. En Huasco, la población tiene 2,49 veces más riesgo de padecer enfermedades de las vías respiratorias inferiores con respecto a la región y 3,19 veces más riesgo de presentar asma. CONCLUSIONES: El asma y la bronquitis, son las patologías que mostraron mayores riesgos en las ciudades de Tocopilla y Huasco. Nuestros hallazgos son similares a otras investigaciones realizadas en comunidades expuestas a centrales termoeléctricas de carbón. Es necesario tomar medidas urgentes para proteger la salud de la población.

INTRODUCTION: In Chile, coal-fired power plants (CTEC) operate represents public health problems due to the health consequences for the population. Damage to the respiratory system is reported. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ecological study to evaluate hospital discharges in people living in cities where CTEC operates (Tocopilla and Huasco) were compared to a control city without CTEC (Caldera), all of them with similar sociodemographic conditions. Morbidity rates and Standardized Morbidity Ratios (SMR) were calculated. RESULTS: The respiratory disease morbidity rate in Tocopilla (2016) was 152.5 per 10,000 inhabitants (habs) and for Huasco it is 135.2 per 10,000 inhabitants. In the control city, Caldera, the rate is 40.9 per 10,000 habs. In addition, the inhabitants of Tocopilla have a 2.42 times increased risk of bronchitis or bronchiolitis, 90% higher risk of chronic lower respiratory diseases and 2.14 times more risk of asthma sickness. In Huasco, the population is 2.49 times more at risk of lower respiratory diseases compared to the region and 3.19 times more at risk of asthma. CONCLUSIONS: Asthma and bronchitis are the pathologies that showed the greatest risks in the cities of Tocopilla and Huasco. Our findings are similar to other research conducted in communities exposed to coal-fired power plants. Urgent action is needed to protect the health of the population.

Asociación entre síntomas depresivos del cuidador principal y problemas conductuales en una muestra de preescolares chilenos de 30 a 48 meses de edad / Association between primary caregiver depressive symptoms and behavioral problems in a sample of chilean preschool children age 30 to 48 months

Resumen Introducción: La salud mental del cuidador influye en el desarrollo de los niños; sin embargo, desconocemos si existe una asociación entre síntomas depresivos del cuidador y problemas conductuales en preescolares chilenos. El objetivo fue analizar la asociación entre los síntomas depresivos del cuidador principal y la presencia de problemas conductuales en preescolares usuarios de la red pública de salud chilena. Método: Estudio transversal. Muestreo por conglomerados estratificados bietápico. Muestra de 1.377 preescolares de 2,5-4 años y sus cuidadores principales. Con consentimiento informado se aplicó encuesta sociodemográfica y Child Behavior Checklist 1½-5. Los síntomas depresivos del cuidador se evaluaron mediante Entrevista Diagnóstica Internacional Compuesta abreviada. Resultados: Edad promedio del preescolar 40,95 ± 4,6 meses, 51,3% varones. 97,5% fueron cuidadoras mujeres, edad promedio 31,6 ± 10,2 años y escolaridad 9,5 años. Se encontró problemas conductuales de rango clínico en las tres escalas: total de problemas conductuales 21,4%, conductas internalizantes 23,1% y externalizantes 16,4%. Se encontró sintomatologia depresiva en 9,1% de los cuidadores, la que aumenta a 14,5,% y 16,1% en cuidadores de preescolares con conductas internalizantes y externalizantes respectivamente. En el análisis de regresión logística multinomial ajustando por variables confundentes, la asociación bivariada con los problemas conductuales internalizantes desaparece, sin embargo, se mantiene para el total de problemas conductuales y conductas externalizantes. Conclusiones: La asociación entre síntomas depresivos del cuidador y problemas conductuales en preescolares chilenos es consistente y modulada por otras variables médicas y psicosociales, esto sugiere la importancia de la identificación, prevención e intervención temprana de la díada y su entorno.

Introduction: The mental health of the caregiver influences the development of children; however we do not know if there is an association between depressive symptoms of the caregiver and behavioral problems in Chilean preschoolers. The objective was to analyze the association between primary caregiver depressive symptoms and behavioral problems in preschoolers users of the Chilean public health network. Method: Cross-sectional study. Two-stage stratified cluster sampling. Sample 1377 preschool children 2,5-4 years old and their primary caregivers. In order to assess child behavior, a sociodemographic survey and Child Behavior Checklist ½-5 we applied to each caregiver, under informed consent. Caregiver depressive symptoms were assessed using the International Diagnostic Composite Interview Short Form. Results: Preschool age was 40.95 ± 4.6 months, 51.3% were boys. 97.5% of caregivers were female, (ages 31.6 ± 10.2 yr, average schooling 9.5 years). Behavioral problems of clinical rank were found in the three scales: total behavioral problems 21.4%, internalizing 23.1%, and externalizing behaviors 16.4%. 9.1% of caregivers experienced depressive symptomatology. In preschool children with internalizing behavioral, caregivers showed depressive symptoms in 14,5% of cases, and 16,1% in those with an externalizing behavioral. In multinomial logistic regression analysis adjusted for confounding variables, bivariate association for internalizing behavioral problems was lost, but persisted for total behavioral problems and for externalizing behavioral. Conclusions: The association between caregiver's depressive symptoms and behavioral problems in Chilean preschool children is consistent and modulated by other medical and psychosocial variables, suggesting the importance of identification, prevention and early intervention of the dyad and their environment.

Conocimiento y perfil de uso de la biblioteca Cochrane en médicos asistentes a un congreso de Medicina Interna / Knowledge and use profile of the Cochrane library in doctors attendees of an Internal Medicine congress

Introducción: las Revisiones Sistemáticas (RS) son herramientas para practicar Medicina Basada en la Evidencia. La Colaboración Cochrane genera RS, pero el conocimiento y uso de la Biblioteca Cochrane (BC) es heterogéneo. Nuestro objetivo fue describir el nivel de conocimiento y el perfil de uso de la BC entre asistentes a una Conferencia Mundial de Medicina Interna (WCIM). Método:estudio transversal vía encuesta electrónica entre asistentes al XXXI WCIM, recabando información demográfica de los participantes; su conocimiento, acceso y usos de la BC. Resultados: 413 asistentes aceptaron participar y 198 (47,9 por ciento) de 24 países respondieron. 91,4 por ciento eran Latinoamericanos, 50,5 por ciento eran internistas. El conocimiento de la BC fue del 96,5 por ciento. El 76% de quienes respondieron usaban la BC al menos una vez al mes. No encontramos diferencias en la frecuencia de uso según edad o ámbito académico. Las principales razones para utilizar RS-BC fueron: toma de decisiones clínicas (67,6 por ciento), actualización (64,2 por ciento) y docencia (31,8 por ciento); 46 por ciento consideraron la BC muy útil para sus propósitos. Los <35 años utilizaban significativamente más la BC para guiar las decisiones clínicas que los >35 años (70 por ciento vs 53 por ciento, p: 0,017). Quienes consideraron muy útil la BC la utilizaron significativamente más para propósitos docentes (41 por ciento vs. 24 por ciento, p: 0,019) y toma de decisiones clínicas (79 por ciento vs. 58 por ciento, p: 0,003) que quienes la declararon como a veces útil o no útil. Hubo también diferencias estadísticamente significativas en la distribución del acceso a la BC según región geográfica (p: 0,001). Conclusiones: encontramos un alto nivel de conocimiento de la BC entre los asistentes a WCIM. Los usuarios describen un uso frecuente para diversos propósitos, considerándola útil para estos. (AU)

Introduction: Systematic Reviews (SR) are tools for practicing Evidence Based Medicine. Cochrane Collaboration generates SRs, but awareness and uses of Cochrane SR, changes over time and across different countries and medical specialties. We aimed to describe awareness and user's profile of Cochrane Library (CL) SR among attendants to a World Conference of Internal Medicine (WCIM). Methods: Cross sectional online survey study among attendants to the XXXI WCIM asking about demographic information, awareness of, access to and uses of CL-SRs. Results: 413 attendants to WCIM volunteered to participate and 198 (47.9 percent) from 24 countries replied; 91.4 percent) were from Latin-America. Mean age was 37 years and 50.5 percent) were general internists or internal medicine subspecialists. Awareness of the CL was 96.5 percent). The frequency of CL-SR use was at least once a month for 76 percent) of responders. We found no difference in frequency of use according to age or academic setting. Main reasons to use CL-SR were: guide clinical decisions (67.6 percent)), personal update (64.2 percent) and teaching (31.8 percent)); 46 percent) considered CL-SR very useful to their purposes. People <35y used CL-SR significantly more for guiding clinical decisions than those >35y (70 percent) vs 53 percent), p: 0.017). Users who considered CL-SR very useful use it significantly more for teaching purposes (41 percent) vs 24 percent), p: 0.019) and for clinical decision-making (79 percent) vs 58 percent), p: 0.003) than those declaring CL-SR as sometimes useful or not useful. Also there was statistically significant difference in distribution of access to CL by geographic region (p: 0.001). Conclusions: We found high awareness of CL-SRs among attendants to WCIM. Users describe frequent use, for several purposes and find it helpful for their purposes; however, access varied across regions. (AU)

[Students' perceptions comparing standardized and non-standardized oral exams in internal medicine]. / Percepción de examen oral estandarizado vs no estandarizado en el internado de medicina interna.

BACKGROUND: Oral examinations are a useful tool to appraise certain medical skills compared to other examinations. However, they have some disadvantages that might be reduced with standardization. AIM: To compare students' perception comparing a standardized oral exam (SOE) versus a traditional, non-standardized oral exam (NSOE). MATERIAL AND METHODS: During the first semester of 2013 a NSOE was applied to internal medicine undergraduate students. During the second semester, a SOE was applied. An anonymous and voluntary perception questionnaire, consisting in 10 questions based on a 5-level Likert scale, was answered by these students. Statistical analysis was done using the Mann-Whitney U test. RESULTS: Among the 118 students, 50.8% were evaluated using NSOE and 49.2% using SOE. Questionnaire response rate was 84%. Among respondents, 52% took the SOE and 48%, the NSOE. Students evaluated using SOE perceived that the degree of complexity of clinical cases was similar for all examinees (p < 0.05), that exam duration was standardized (p < 0.05), and that grades obtained were less influenced by the clinical site where the exam was taken (p < 0.05). However, anxiety level remained high in both groups, as well as the overall satisfaction experience. CONCLUSIONS: Standardization of an oral examination improves the perception of medical students about levels of difficulty, duration and external influences on the final grade.

Percepción de examen oral estandarizado vs no estandarizado en el internado de medicina interna / Students’ perceptions comparing standardized and non-standardized oral exams in internal medicine

Background: Oral examinations are a useful tool to appraise certain medical skills compared to other examinations. However, they have some disadvantages that might be reduced with standardization. Aim: To compare students’ perception comparing a standardized oral exam (SOE) versus a traditional, non-standardized oral exam (NSOE). Material and Methods: During the first semester of 2013 a NSOE was applied to internal medicine undergraduate students. During the second semester, a SOE was applied. An anonymous and voluntary perception questionnaire, consisting in 10 questions based on a 5-level Likert scale, was answered by these students. Statistical analysis was done using the Mann-Whitney U test. Results: Among the 118 students, 50.8% were evaluated using NSOE and 49.2% using SOE. Questionnaire response rate was 84%. Among respondents, 52% took the SOE and 48%, the NSOE. Students evaluated using SOE perceived that the degree of complexity of clinical cases was similar for all examinees (p < 0.05), that exam duration was standardized (p < 0.05), and that grades obtained were less influenced by the clinical site where the exam was taken (p < 0.05). However, anxiety level remained high in both groups, as well as the overall satisfaction experience. Conclusions: Standardization of an oral examination improves the perception of medical students about levels of difficulty, duration and external influences on the final grade.

Factores pronósticos, evolución y mortalidad en el adulto inmunocompetente hospitalizado por neumonía neumocócica adquirida en la comunidad / Prognostic factors and mortality in immunocompetent adult patients hospitalized with community-acquired pneumococcal pneumonia

Background: Streptococcus pneumoniae is the main cause of community-acquired pneumonia in adults. Aim: To describe baseline characteristics, risk factors and clinical outcomes of adult patients hospitalized with pneumococcal pneumonia. Material and methods: Prospective study of adult patients admitted for a community acquired pneumonia in a clinical hospital. Immune deficient patients and those with a history of a recent hospitalization were excluded. Results: One hundred fifty one immuno-competent patients, aged 16 to 92 years, 58 percent males, were studied. Seventy-five percent had other diseases, 26 percent were admitted to the intensive care unit and 9 percent needed mechanical ventilation. There were no differences in clinical features, ICU admission or hospital length of stay among bacteremic and non-bacteremic patients. Thirty days lethality for bacteremic and non-bacteremic patients was 10.9 percent and 11.5 percent, respectively. The predictive values for lethality of Fine pneumonia severity index and CURB-65 (Confusion, Urea nitrogen, Respiratory rate, Blood pressure, 65 years of age and older) had an area under the ROC curve of 0.8 and 0.69, respectively. Multivariate analysis disclosed blood urea nitrogen over 30 mg/ dL (odds ratio (OR), 6.8), need for mechanical ventilation (OR, 7.4) and diastolic blood pressure below 50 mmHg (OR, 3.9), as significant independent predictors of death. Conclusions: Pneumococcal pneumonia was associated with a substantial rate of complications and mortality. Clinical presentation and outcome did not differ significantly among patients with and without bacteremia.

[Prognostic factors and mortality in immunocompetent adult patients hospitalized with community-acquired pneumococcal pneumonia]. / Factores pronósticos, evolución y mortalidad en el adulto inmunocompetente hospitalizado por neumonía neumocócica adquirida en la comunidad.

BACKGROUND: Streptococcus pneumoniae is the main cause of community-acquired pneumonia in adults. AIM: To describe baseline characteristics, risk factors and clinical outcomes of adult patients hospitalized with pneumococcal pneumonia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Prospective study of adult patients admitted for a community acquired pneumonia in a clinical hospital. Immune deficient patients and those with a history of a recent hospitalization were excluded. RESULTS: One hundred fifty one immuno-competent patients, aged 16 to 92 years, 58% males, were studied. Seventy-five percent had other diseases, 26% were admitted to the intensive care unit and 9% needed mechanical ventilation. There were no differences in clinical features, ICU admission or hospital length of stay among bacteremic and non-bacteremic patients. Thirty days lethality for bacteremic and non-bacteremic patients was 10.9% and 11.5%, respectively. The predictive values for lethality of Fine pneumonia severity index and CURB-65 (Confusion, Urea nitrogen, Respiratory rate, Blood pressure, 65 years of age and older) had an area under the ROC curve of 0.8 and 0.69, respectively. Multivariate analysis disclosed blood urea nitrogen over 30 mg/ dL (odds ratio (OR), 6.8), need for mechanical ventilation (OR, 7.4) and diastolic blood pressure below 50 mmHg (OR, 3.9), as significant independent predictors of death. CONCLUSIONS: Pneumococcal pneumonia was associated with a substantial rate of complications and mortality. Clinical presentation and outcome did not differ significantly among patients with and without bacteremia.

[Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for ulcerative colitis: complications and long term functional results]. / Reservorio ileal con anastomosis reservorio anal por colitis ulcerosa: Complicaciones y resultados funcionales a largo plazo.

BACKGROUND: The ileo anal-pouch-anastomosis (IPAA) is the treatment of choice for patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). AIM: To analyze the surgical outcomes, long term evolution and functional results of IPAA. MATERIAL AND METHODS: All patients subjected to an IPAA, from 1984 to 2006 were identified from a prospectively constructed inflammatory bowel disease database. Surgical variables, postoperative complications and functional evaluation, using Oresland score were analyzed. Chi square, Fischer exact test, T Student, Mann Whitney and binary logistic regression were included in the statistical analysis. RESULTS: In the study period 107 patients, aged 14 to 62 years (61 females), subjected to an IPAA, were identified in this period. All patients, except 4, had a J pouch. All were protected with a loop ileostomy. Thirteen patients (12.1%) had specific postoperative complications: pelvic collections in five (4.6%), wound infection in four (3.7%), fistula of the anastomosis in two (1.8%), hemoperitoneum and pouch necrosis in one each. Three (2.7%) patients were reoperated. There was no post-operative (30 days) mortality. A complete follow-up was obtained in 106 of 107 patients: four evolved as Crohn disease; four lost their pouch and two died for other causes. One patient required an ileostomy due to a vaginal fistula. Seventy two patients were followed more than 36 months after ileostomy closure and 92% have a satisfactory intestinal function. In the univariate analysis, poorest intestinal function was related to age of diagnosis of UC and presence of chronic pouchitis. In the multivariate analyses age of diagnosis was associated with poor function. CONCLUSIONS: IPAA has a low rate of complications. The long term intestinal function is satisfactory in most patients. A poorer intestinal function was observed in older patients and those with chronic pouchitis).

Reservorio ileal con anastomosis reservorio anal por colitis ulcerosa: Complicaciones y resultados funcionales a largo plazo / Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for ulcerative colitis: Complications and long term functional results

Background: The ileo anal-pouch-anastomosis (IPAA) is the treatment of choice for patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). Aim To analyze the surgical outcomes, long term evolution and functional results of IPAA. Material and methods: All patients subjected to an IPAA, from 1984 to 2006 were identified from a prospectively constructed inflammatory bowel disease database. Surgical variables, postoperative complications and functional evaluation, using Oresland score were analyzed. Chi square, Fischer exact test, T Student, Mann Whitney and binary logistic regression were included in the statistical analysis. Results: In the study period 107 patients, aged 14 to 62 years (61 females), subjected to an IPAA, were identified in this period. All patients, except 4, had a J pouch. All were protected with a loop ileostomy Thirteen patients (12.1 percent) had specific postoperative complications: pelvic collections in five (4.6 percent), wound infection in four (3.7 percent), fistula of the anastomosis in two (1.8 percent), hemoperitoneum and pouch necrosis in one each. Three (2.7 percent) patients were reoperated. There was no post-operative (30 days) mortality. A complete follow-up was obtained in 106 of 107 patients: four evolved as Crohn disease; four lost their pouch and two died for other causes. One patient required an ileostomy due to a vaginal fistula. Seventy two patients were followed more than 36 months after ileostomy closure and 92 percent have a satisfactory intestinal function. In the univariate analysis, poorest intestinal function was related to age of diagnosis of UC and presence of chronic pouchitis. In the multivariate analyses age of diagnosis was associated with poor function. Conclusions: IPAA has a low rate of complications. The long term intestinal function is satisfactory in most patients. A poorer intestinal function was observed in older patients and those with chronic pouchitis).

Resultados y eventos adversos de la sigmoidectomía por cáncer: laparoscopia versus laparotomía / Results and complications in patients with sigmoid cancer: laparoscopic versus laparotomy

Objetivo: Comparar resultados y complicaciones inmediatas al realizar una sigmoidectomía laparoscópica (SL) versus abierta (SA) en pacientes con cáncer de colon sigmoides. Material y método: Inclusión prospectiva y consecutiva, mediante protocolo de estudio de pacientes operados mediante SL entre el 2000 y el 2006. Análisis comparativo caso-control, mediante pareo según edad, sexo y ASA entre pacientes operados mediante SL con SA. Análisis por intención de tratamiento, mediante test t de Student, chi cuadrado, Mann-Withney y exacto de Fischer; consideramos estadísticamente significativo p <0,05. Resultados: Treinta y dos pacientes por grupo fueron comparados. Los grupos (SL v/s SA) fueron similares estadísticamente en edad (65,6 v/s 67,3 años), sexo (femenino 31,25 por ciento), y ASA (p> 0,05). La mediana del tiempo operatorio fue mayor en SL (220 v/s 172 minutos, p <0,01). Un 9,3 por ciento se convirtió a técnica abierta en SL. El tiempo medio a la expulsión de gases y realimentación con líquidos fue menor en SL (2 v/s 4 días, p<0,01 y 3 v/s 5 días, p< 0,01). La estadía media postquirúrgica (5 v/s 8 días p<0,01) fue menor en SL. Las complicaciones postoperatorias médicas, fueron menores en SL (9,3 por ciento v/s 37,5 por ciento p<0,01), pero las quirúrgicas fueron iguales (6,25 por ciento cada grupo). Los linfonodos resecados y tamaños de piezas operatorias fueron similares (SL v/s SA: 22,7 v/s 22,1 linfonodos p= 0,9 y 21,8 v/s 19,3 cm. p= 0,2). Conclusión: El desarrollo de la cirugía laparoscópica colorrectal mediante un protocolo, permite realizar la SL por cáncer con resultados quirúrgicos similares a la SA.

Background: The laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer is an alternative to the laparotomy. The aim of this study is to compare results and early complications after a laparoscopic sigmoidectomy (LS) versus open surgery (OS) in patients with sigmoid cancer. Material and Method: Prospective and consecutive inclusion, by a study protocol of patients operated on for LS between 2000 and 2006. Comparative case-control design, the LS group was match with the OS group by age, sex, and ASA classification. Statistical analysis: Results were analyzed with intention to treat. The variables were analyzed with T Student, Chi-square, Mann-Withney and Fischer exact test, considering statistically significant a P value < 0.05. Results: Thirty-two patients by group were compared. The groups (LS vs OS) were statistically similar in age (65.6 v/s 67.3 years), gender (31.25 percent females each group), and ASA (p > 0.5). The mean operative time was higher in LS group (220 v/s 172 minutes, p <0.01). Conversion rate was 9.3 percent. The mean time to passing flatus and the time to reinitiate oral feeding were both shorter for LS group (2 v/s 4 days, p<0.01; and 3 v/s 5 days p <0.01). The mean total postoperative stay (5 v/s 8 days, p<0.01) was shorter for LS group. The postoperative medical complications were minor in LS group (9.3 v/s 27.5 percent, p <0.01), but the surgical complications were similar (6.25 percent each group). Lymph nodes resected and length of surgical specimens were similar for both groups (SL v/s OS: 22.7 v/s 22.1 lymphatic nodes p = 0.9 and 21.8 v/s 19.3 cm, p= 0.2). Conclusion: The development of laparoscopic colorectal surgery within a protocol, allows feasible the realization of laparoscopic sigmoidectomy for patients with sigmoid cancer with comparable surgical outcomes.

[Risk factors for postoperative atrial fibrillation after coronary artery bypass grafting. A prospective analysis]. / Factores determinantes en la aparición de fibrilación auricular post-cirugía de revascularización miocárdica. Un estudio prospectivo.

BACKGROUND: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a relevant complication after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). However there is controversy regarding possible contributing factors. AIM: To study the incidence of AF, its risk factors and its repercussion on hospital stay and charges, in patients undergoing CABG. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We prospectively collected information from all patients undergoing CABG in our institution, including demographic, surgical and laboratory variables. Exclusion criteria were chronic AF, recent onset AF and patients who needed additional surgical procedures. The primary endpoint was the incidence of AF during the hospital stay. Secondary endpoints were hospital length of stay and hospital charges. RESULTS: We included 250 patients aged 62+/-9 years (199 males) in the analysis. Incidence of AF was 22% (54 patients). Multivariable analysis showed that age (Odds Ratio (OR) =1.10), previous CABG (OR =9.39), previous use of ACE inhibitors (OR =3.28) and aortic clamp >57 minutes (OR =3.97) were significantly associated with an increased risk of postoperative AF. Previous use of beta-blockers was associated with risk reduction (OR =0.43). Patients who developed AF had a longer hospital stay (p <0.001) and higher hospital charges (p =0.003). CONCLUSION: AF is a frequent complication in patients undergoing CABG. Risk factors are age, time of aortic clamp, previous CABG and ACE inhibitors. Beta-blockers may prevent its occurrence. Furthermore, AF has a negative impact on both hospital stay and hospital charges.

Actividad física y obesidad en niños con asma / Physical activity and obesity in asthmatic children

Exercise- induced asthma is frequent among children. Objective: To compare physical activity (PA) and nutritional status in asthmatic (A) versus healthy (H) children. Methods: 81 school children were enrolled (40 A and 41 H). A validated interview with opinions and attitude towards PA was performed to parents in both groups. Nutritional status was classified according to body mass index. Answers were associated with percent² test. Results: 44 percent girls, average age 9 years-old. Average hours per week of PA = 2.4 in H and 1.9 in A (p=NS); 88 percent) of A versus 56 percent of H performed < 2 hours per week of PA (p < 0.05). 85 percent of A reported frequent symptoms associated to PA. Overweight and obesity were diagnosed in 15/40 A and 11/41 H (p < 0.05). Parents of A thought that PA was "dangerous" more frequently than parents of H (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Asthmatic children practice less PA than recommendations. There is an association between asthma, obesity and less PA level. Parents of asthmatic children have a negative opinion about PA, explaining the diminished PA performed by this group.

El asma inducida por ejercicio es una enfermedad crónica frecuente en niños. El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar actividad física (AF) y estado nutricional en niños con asma (A) y sanos (S). Pacientes y Método: Participaron 81 niños, 40 A y 41 S. Se realizó un cuestionario a los padres, validado previamente, referente a opiniones y actitudes acerca de la AF. El estado nutricional se clasificó de acuerdo a índice de masa corporal. Se asociaron las respuestas entre los grupos con por ciento². Resultados: Edad promedio 9 años, 44 por ciento niñas. Promedio de horas de AF semanales fue 2,4 S y 1,9 A (p = NS). El 88 por ciento de A vs 56 por ciento de S realizaba < de 2 horas de AF semanales (p < 0,05). El 85 por ciento de A presentaba síntomas frecuentes asociados al ejercicio. En 15/40Avs 11/41 S se diagnosticó obesidad y sobrepeso (p < 0,05). Los padres de A percibían la AF como "peligrosa" más frecuentemente que S (p < 0,05). Conclusiones: Los niños con asma realizan menos AF que las recomendaciones, existiendo una asociación entre bajos niveles de AF, obesidad y asma. Los padres de niños con asma tienen una opinión negativa sobre la AF que podría explicar la escasa AF realizada por sus hijos.

Factores determinantes en la aparición de fibrilación auricular post-cirugía de revascularización miocárdica: un estudio prospectivo / Risk factors for postoperative atrial fibrillation after coronary artery bypass grafting: a prospective analysis

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a relevant complication after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). However there is controversy regarding possible contributing factors. Aim: To study the incidence of AF, its risk factors and its repercussion on hospital stay and charges, in patients undergoing CABG. Material and methods: We prospectively collected information from all patients undergoing CABG in our institution, including demographic, surgical and laboratory variables. Exclusion criteria were chronic AF, recent onset AF and patients who needed additional surgical procedures. The primary endpoint was the incidence of AF during the hospital stay. Secondary endpoints were hospital length of stay and hospital charges. Results: We included 250 patients aged 62±9 years (199 males) in the analysis. Incidence of AF was 22 percent (54 patients). Multivariable analysis showed that age (Odds Ratio (OR) =1.10), previous CABG (OR =9.39), previous use of ACE inhibitors (OR =3.28) and aortic clamp >57 minutes (OR =3.97) were significantly associated with an increased risk of postoperative AF. Previous use of beta-blockers was associated with risk reduction (OR =0.43). Patients who developed AF had a longer hospital stay (p <0.001) and higher hospital charges (p =0.003). Conclusion: AF is a frequent complication in patients undergoing CABG. Risk factors are age, time of aortic clamp, previous CABG and ACE inhibitors. Beta-blockers may prevent its occurrence. Furthermore, AF has a negative impact on both hospital stay and hospital charges.

Pólipos vesiculares: correlación entre hallazgos ecográficos e histopatológicos / Gallbladder polyps: correlation between ultrasonographic and histopathological findings

Background: Gallbladder polyps are becoming a common finding. The management of these polyps is complicated considering that they can bear malignant lesions. Aim: To analyze the ultrasonographic and histopathologic findings of patients operated due to gallbladder polyps. Patients and methods: The records of patients with ultrasonographic diagnosis of gallbladder polyp and that underwent cholecystectomy in a thirteen years period were reviewed, collecting their demographic, ultrasonographic and histopathological data. Results: One hundred and twenty three patients were operated. The mean age was 44±13 years, and 69 percent were women. The mean size of polyps in ultrasonography was 7.3±5 mm. Histopathology confirmed the presence of polyps in 79 percent of patients, with a mean size and number of lesions of 5.1±3.8 mm and 2.1±2, respectively. Nine percent of polyps were greater than 10 mm, and single polyps were significantly larger than the multiple ones (p =0.003). Four cases of adenoma (3.2 percent) were diagnosed; one of them had in situ carcinoma. All were single and larger than 10 mm. We found a significant correlation between ultrasonographic and histopathological polyp size determination (r =0.47; p =0.002). Polyp size was also a predictor of the presence of adenoma (p =0.043; confidence intervals: 1.006-1.424). Conclusions: There is a good correlation between the size of the gallbladder polyp in ultrasonography and the size in the histopathology report. Gallbladder adenoma is uncommon and it correlates with the size of the polyp. In this series, size was the only predictor of the presence of adenoma.

Utilidad de la proteína C reactiva y recuento de leucocitos en sospecha de apendicitis aguda / Utility of C reactive protein and leukocyte count in suspected appendicitis

Introducción: La Apendicitis Aguda (AA) es la emergencia quirúrgica más frecuente. La proteína C reactiva (PCR) es una proteína de fase aguda que sería de utilidad en el diagnóstico de AA. El objetivo de este trabajo es determinar el rendimiento de la PCR y el recuento de leucocitos (RL) en el diagnóstico de AA. Material y Método: Estudio prospectivo entre Marzo 2002 y Julio 2003. A todo paciente ingresado con sospecha de AA se le midió PCR y RL. El diagnóstico definitivo se hizo con el estudio histopatológico. Los pacientes no operados fueron seguidos hasta un mes después del alta. Se determinó los valores promedio de cada variable y se elaboró una curva ROC para RL y PCR. Resultados: Fueron incluidos 79 pacientes (43F/36M), con un edad promedio de 29+12,5 años. El promedio de duración de los síntomas hasta elingreso fue de 30+24 hrs. Cincuenta y dos pacientes (65 por ciento) fueron sometidos a cirugía y se confirmó AAen 46 de ellos (88 por ciento). El cálculo de curvas ROC para PCR muestra el punto de corte (mejor valor desensibilidad y especificidad) en 2,5mg/dL, con un área bajo la curva de 0,86, mientras que el cálculo parael RL muestra un punto de corte de 12700/mm3 y un área bajo la curva de 0,73. El RL muestra mejor sensibilidad, especificidad, VPP, VPN, LR(+) y LR(–) comparado con la PCR. La combinación de PCR >2,5 mg/dL y RL >12700/mm3 mejora la especificidad, VPP y LR(+). Conclusión: El RL es más preciso que la PCR para el diagnóstico de AA.

Biomarcadores coronarios y evolución clínica alejada en pacientes con síndromes coronarios agudos sin elevación del segmento ST / Coronary biomarkers and long-term clinical outcome in acute coronary syndrome without ST segment elevation

Background: The use of new biomarkers improved risk stratification for patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Aim: To evaluate the relationship between multiple biomarkers and long-term clinical outcome in ACS without ST segment elevation. Patients and Methods: Consecutive patients presenting with suspected ACS were studied. On admission to the emergency room, serum was obtained to determine highly sensitive C reactive protein (hsCRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), lipoprotein (a) (LPa) and soluble P selectin (sPS). Clinical endpoints were mortality and a composite endpoint of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) including death, re-infarction, and angina. Results: Seventy patients, aged 63±13 years, 54 males, were studied. Final diagnosis was unstable angina in 71% and non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction in 29%. MACE and mortality rate were 17% and 5.8%, respectively. We found higher plasma levels of hsCRP, ESR and Lp(a) in patients with MACE (p=0.032, p=0.015 and p=0.010, respectively). Plasma levels of hsCRP and ESR were also higher in patients who died during the follow up (p=0.002 y p=0.045, respectively). Conclusion: Plasma levels of inflammatory markers and atherosclerosis biomarkers are associated with a worse long-term clinical outcome in ACS without ST segment elevation. The inclusion of these biomarkers in the routine blood test on admission, could improve risk stratification of patients with ACS in the future.

Influencia de la personalidad y el estilo de aprendizaje en la elección de especialidad médica / Influence of personality and learning styles in the choice of medical specialty

Background: Several studies indicate that doctors who work in the same area of the medical profession tend to behave somehow similarly. Thus, it has been suggested that personality relates to the medical specialty choice. However, it is not known whether people self-select into the medical specialties according to their personality or the professional practice in a particular field influences their behavior. Aim: To explore the possible association between the graduate's personality features and learning styles and their chosen specialty. Subjects and Methods: The psychological preferences and learning styles of 65 students of the 2001-graduating cohort of the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile School of Medicine were evaluated with the Myers Briggs Type Indicator and the Kolb Learning Style Inventory, respectively. These variables were correlated with the information of their specialty choice or occupation two years after graduation. Results: Graduates distributed unevenly in different areas of the medical profession. Surgical specialties concentrated a larger proportion of extraverted, intuitive and structured doctors, whereas in Pediatrics and Internal Medicine predominated intuitive and people-oriented MD's. Primary Care concentrated individuals with introverted, intuitive and flexible attitudes. Convergent learners (interested in problem-solving) preferred Surgery and Primary Care whereas Assimilator learners (abstract-reflexive) chose more frequently Internal Medicine, Pediatrics and Psychiatry. Conclusions: According to their personality and learning style, graduates tend to self-select into different medical specialties. This information may help medical graduates to guide their specialty choice process, and medical educators to develop learning experiences that take into account the individual differences of their residents.

Pruebas cutáneas de hipersensibilidad inmediata en una población pediátrica seleccionada / Skin prick test of immediate hipersensitivity in a selected Chilean pediatric population sample

Background: Skin prick test (SPT) of immediate hypersensitivity is a main instrument in the diagnosis of allergy. Aim: To demonstrate the applicability of skin prick test in different age groups. Patients and Methods: We studied children and adolescents with the diagnosis of allergy in the Pediatric Respiratory Laboratory of the Catholic University of Chile, from January 2001 to March 2002. The SPT was performed using a standardized technique. The allergens were applied on the volar surface of the forearm in children older than 4 years of age and in younger children it was applied on their back. For study purposes we separated them into three age groups: GI ¡2 years and 11 months, GII from 3 to 4 years and 11 months, GIII ×5 years. Results: We studied 408 children, aged between 8 months and 15 years. The SPT was applied to all patients with no adverse effects of any kind. There was a positive reaction in 57.7percent of children. The reaction was positive in 37percent in G1, 39percent in GII and 65percent in GIII (p <0.001). The predominant allergens for each group were dust mites (Dermatophagoides pteronissinus and farinae). Conclusions: SPT was useful when used on a selected pediatric population. The frequency of sensitization increased significantly with age. However, more than one third of children between 2 and 4 years of age tested positive to one or more allergen, demonstrating its applicability in this age group.

[Coronary biomarkers and long-term clinical outcome in acute coronary syndrome without ST segment elevation]. / Biomarcadores coronarios y evolución clínica alejada en pacientes con síndromes coronarios agudos sin elevación del segmento ST.

BACKGROUND: The use of new biomarkers improved risk stratification for patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). AIM: To evaluate the relationship between multiple biomarkers and long-term clinical outcome in ACS without ST segment elevation. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Consecutive patients presenting with suspected ACS were studied. On admission to the emergency room, serum was obtained to determine highly sensitive C reactive protein (hsCRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), lipoprotein (a) (LPa) and soluble P selectin (sPS). Clinical endpoints were mortality and a composite endpoint of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) including death, re-infarction, and angina. RESULTS: Seventy patients, aged 63+/-13 years, 54 males, were studied. Final diagnosis was unstable angina in 71% and non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction in 29%. MACE and mortality rate were 17% and 5.8%, respectively. We found higher plasma levels of hsCRP, ESR and Lp(a) in patients with MACE (p=0.032, p=0.015 and p=0.010, respectively). Plasma levels of hsCRP and ESR were also higher in patients who died during the follow up (p=0.002 y p=0.045, respectively). CONCLUSION: Plasma levels of inflammatory markers and atherosclerosis biomarkers are associated with a worse long-term clinical outcome in ACS without ST segment elevation. The inclusion of these biomarkers in the routine blood test on admission, could improve risk stratification of patients with ACS in the future.

Curva nacional de distribución de peso al nacer según edad gestacional. Chile, 1993 a 2000 / A national birth weight distribution curve according to gestational age in Chile from 1993 to 2000

BACKGROUND: The World Health Organization recently defined the criteria for constructing birth weight curves using population based data. AIM: To construct a national curve of weight, size and ponderal index at birth for Chile, following the criteria suggested by the World Health Organization (WHO) expert committee report from 1995. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A national database from the Chilean Istitute for Statistics was used. All alive singleton deliveries during tbe period from 1993 to 2000 were included. A birth weight curve for the total population as well as for size and ponderal index at birth was construted, including percentile distribution, mean and standard deviation of values for gestational age. Stratification by sex was performed. RESULTS: A total of 2,049,446 singleton deliveries were analyzed. The 10 percentiles (raw data) for birth weight throughout gestation from 22 to 42 weeks were: 470, 520, 560, 630, 660, 749, 810, 926, 1,031, 1,160, 1,320, 1,480, 1,680, 1,920, 2,190, 2,500, 2, 750, 2,910, 3,010, 3,080 and 3,090 g, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: A national birth weight for Chilean population (a predominant Hispanic population) was constructed. There are not differences between this curve and the standard proposed by WHO (population from California, USA) suggesting that under comparable perinatal indices, ethnicity is not a relevant factor deterimining birth weight.