bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The harm hypothesis: How perceived harm to women shapes reactions to research on sex differences
Authors: Stewart‐Williams Steve , Leong Christine X. R. , Seto Shania A. , Thomas Andrew G. , Wong Xiu Ling
Published: January 2024

Past research suggests that reactions to research on sex differences are often less positive when the findings put men in a better light than women, especially when the lead researcher is a man. The factors underlying this effect, however, are not yet fully understood. The present study aimed to provide the first experimental test of the hypothesis that the key variable is perceived harm to women. Participants (214 men and 219 women) evaluated a bogus popular‐science article reporting fictional research finding either a female‐ or a male‐favouring sex difference in intelligence, attributed to either a female or a male lead researcher. To examine the effects of perceived harm, the introduction to the task highlighted either the potential benefits or potential drawbacks of sex‐differences research in general. Consistent with past research, participants reacted less positively to the male‐favouring difference, especially for male‐led research. Consistent with the harm hypothesis, the effect was stronger after highlighting the potential drawbacks of sex‐differences research than after highlighting the potential benefits. Our findings suggest that perceptions of harm to women underpin the aversion to male‐favouring findings.
Research progress in failure mechanisms and electrolyte modification of high‐voltage nickel‐rich layered oxide‐based lithium metal batteries
Authors: Liu Jiandong , Hu Xinhong , Qi Shihan , Ren Yurong , Li Yong , Ma Jianmin
Published: January 2024

High‐voltage nickel (Ni)‐rich layered oxide‐based lithium metal batteries (LMBs) exhibit a great potential in advanced batteries due to the ultra‐high energy density. However, it is still necessary to deal with the challenges in poor cyclic and thermal stability before realizing practical application where cycling life is considered. Among many improved strategies, mechanical and chemical stability for the electrode electrolyte interface plays a key role in addressing these challenges. Therefore, extensive effort has been made to address the challenges of electrode‐electrolyte interface. In this progress, the failure mechanism of Ni‐rich cathode, lithium metal anode and electrolytes are reviewed, and the latest breakthrough in stabilizing electrode‐electrolyte interface is also summarized. Finally, the challenges and future research directions of Ni‐rich LMBs are put forward.

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Matrix‐based molecular mechanisms, targeting and diagnostics in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Mastronikolis Nicholas S. , Kyrodimos Efthymios , Piperigkou Zoi , Spyropoulou Despoina , Delides Alexander , Giotakis Evangelos , Alexopoulou Miranda , Bakalis Nick A. , Karamanos Nikos K.
Published: January 2024

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a head and neck cancer (HNC) with a high mortality rate. OSCC is developed in the oral cavity and it is triggered by many etiologic factors and can metastasize both regionally and distantly. Recent research advances in OSCC improved our understanding on the molecular mechanisms involved in and the initiation of OSCC metastasis. The key roles of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in OSCC are an emerging area of intensive research as the ECM macromolecular network is actively involved in events that regulate cellular morphological and functional properties, transcription and cell signaling mechanisms in invasion and metastasis. The provisional matrix that is formed by cancer cells is profoundly different in composition and functions as compared with the matrix of normal tissue. Fibroblasts are mainly responsible for matrix production and remodeling, but in cancer, the tumor matrix in the tumor microenvironment (TME) also originates from cancer cells. Even though extensive research has been conducted on the role of ECM in regulating cancer pathogenesis, its role in modulating OSCC is less elucidated since there are several issues yet to be fully understood. This critical review is focused on recent research as to present and discuss on the involvement of ECM macromolecular effectors (i.e., proteoglycans, integrins, matrix metalloproteinases) in OSCC development and progression.
Flat Small Intestinal Mucosa and Autoantibodies Against the Gut Epithelium
Authors: Unsworth Joseph , Hutchins Paul , Mitchell John , Phillips Alan , Hindocha Previn , Holborow John , Walker‐Smith John
Published: January 2024

A male infant, aged 1 year 3 months, was admitted to the hospital with protracted diarrhoea, vomiting, and weight loss. The diarrhoea and vomiting coincided with an outbreak of acute diarrhoea and vomiting affecting other family members. Biopsy showed a flat small intestinal mucosa which did not respond to a diet free of gluten, cow's milk, and eggs, or during 8 weeks of intravenous alimentation. Steroids were given, and courses of nalcrom and later cimetidine, but these did not produce any significant improvement. A rare IgG autoantibody specific for gut epithelium was found, which, when present, was associated with a cytological abnormality of crypt enteroblasts. The autoantibody disappeared after treatment with cyclophosphamide, and the cytological abnormality subsequently diminished. However, the mucosa remained severely abnormal and has been so for 23 months. It is possible that an autoimmune reaction against the patient's small intestinal mucosa has led to persistence of the enteropathy.
Morphometric Study of the Jejunal Mucosa in Various Childhood Enteropathies with Special Reference to Intraepithelial Lymphocytes
Authors: Kuitunen P. , Kosnai I. , Savilahti E.
Published: January 2024

A morphometric study of intraepithelial (IE) lymphocytes per 100 epithelial cells, villous heights (VH), crypt depths (CrD). and epithelial cell heights (ECH) was made on jejunal specimens of 17 patients with cow's‐milk allergy (CMA), 52 with celiac disease (CD), seven with congenital lactase deficiency (CLD), four with acrodermatitis enteropathica (AE), four with giardiasis, and four with dermatitis herpetiformis (DH). The aim of this study was to investigate how the morphometric parameters correlate with each other. All cases with CMA, CD, and DH had villous atrophy with hyperplasia of the crypts, both signs being more severe in cases with CD and DH than with CMA. IE lymphocyte infiltration was more intense in specimens of patients with CD and DH (mean 76.0), than those with CMA (mean 62.5). The ECH were equally reduced in patients with CD and CMA. In a follow‐up specimen at 1 year and 10 months for CD patients and 11 months for CMA patients the inflammation was reduced, and the VH were increased but still differed from the controls. In CLD cases the morphology of the villi and crypts of the jejunum was quite normal, with no IE lymphocyte infiltration: ECH were reduced. Minor morphological changes were seen in the specimens of patients with AE and giardiasis. In the whole study group there was a significant linear correlation, either positive or negative, between all variables measured (IE lymphocytes, VH, CrD, and ECH).
Delivery of Vitamins E and C from Parenteral Alimentation Solution
Authors: Shenai Jayant P. , Borum Peggy R. , Duke Elizabeth A.
Published: January 2024

We have previously shown that substantial losses of fat‐soluble (FS) vitamin A from parenteral alimentation solution occur due to adsorption in the intravenous tubing and photodegradation in the bottle. This study assessed the delivery of other vitamins, viz. FS vitamin E and water‐soluble (WS) vitamin C, from parenteral alimentation solution. The solution containing 2.0 ml/L of an aqueous multivitamin infusion was infused at a constant rate of 10 ml/h using a standard intravenous administration set. Multiple aliquots of the solution from the bottle and the effluent obtained sequentially in a 24‐h period were analyzed for concentrations of vitamins E and C. Both vitamins remained relatively stable in the bottle. A significant amount (12%) of vitamin E was lost in the intravenous tubing. No losses of vitamin C were incurred in the intravenous tubing. The data suggest that delivery of FS vitamin E from parenteral alimentation solutions is less than optimum because of adsorptive losses. Similar losses are not encountered with WS vitamin C.
Bacteremia in Children Following Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy or Colonoscopy
Authors: Byrne William J. , Euler Arthur R. , Campbell Margaret , Eisenach Kathy D.
Published: January 2024

Fifty children undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and 25 undergoing colonoscopy were studied prospectively with aerobic and anaerobic blood cultures for the development of bacteremia. Twenty‐six of the endoscopies and all the colonoscopies were done under general anesthesia. Cultures were obtained before, at 5 min, and at 30 min after the procedure. Only a single positive blood culture was obtained in an upper endoscopy patient. All cultures from the colonoscopy patients were negative. Biopsy or polypectomy were not important variables in the development of bacteremia. It is concluded that the risk of bacteremia in children following upper endoscopy or colonoscopy is minimal and should not be considered a contraindication to their performance.
Energy Needs and Growth in Children with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Parson H. G. , Beaudry P. , Dumas A. , Pencharz P. B.
Published: January 2024

Children with cystic fibrosis (CF) frequently have growth retardation. Standard growth velocity is dependent on an adequate supply of energy. The effect of dietary counselling and high energy food supplementation on the growth of eight children (aged 4 to 9 years) with CF was determined. The 2‐year study was divided into control and test periods each lasting 1 year. Only during the test period did the mean energy intake reach or exceed 100% of the recommended energy requirements. When energy intake increased, weight growth increased significantly (p < 0.05). Even with pancreatic enzyme replacement, the CF subjects had increased fecal energy losses. Thus, since dietary energy intake would overestimate energy available for metabolism, absorbed energy was determined. There was a positive linear relationship between absorbed energy and weight gain (p < 0.01). Normal rates of weight gain were seen once absorbed energy intakes reached 100%‐110% of requirements. The children grew in height and weight at normal rates during the test period, whereas they showed retarded growth during the control period. Our data provide evidence that children with CF have inadequate energy intakes. Furthermore, we have shown that absorbed energy intake is the principal factor limiting the growth of CF children in the age group studied. Finally. it is possible to promote normal growth in CF children with dietary counselling and high energy supplements.
Quantification of Immunoglobulins After Organ Culture of Human Duodenal Mucosa
Authors: Fluge G. , Aksnes L.
Published: January 2024

Duodenal biopsies from 33 celiac and 16 nonceliac patients were kept in organ culture for 24 h. Quantities of immunoglobulins were measured by rocket immunoelectrophoresis in mucus removed from the biopsy surface after culture and in culture media. Increased amounts of immunoglobulins were recorded after culture of biopsies from celiac disease patients in the exacerbation state: but only in 11 of 33 celiac mucosae could an increment be detected after culture in the presence of gluten compared to culture on glulen‐free medium. The amount of IgA showed a significant correlation with radioactivity of mucus and culture medium after [14C]leucine incorporation during culture. In such experiments autoradiograms of immunoprecipitates disclosed in vitro synthesis of IgA, whereas 47% of the IgG precipitates were radionegative. Amounts of IgA corresponded significantly to serum concentration of this immunoglobulin, whereas for IgM and IgG no such correlation existed. Quantification of immunoglobulins seems to be unsuitable as a method of evaluating in vitro gluten toxicity in celiac disease.
Postnatal Development of Glucose Transport in the Proximal Small Intestine of the Rabbit
Authors: Gall D. Grant , Perdue Mary , Chung May
Published: January 2024

Developmental change in intestinal solute transport was examined by studying glucose transport in rabbit jejunal tissue at age intervals after birth. Net D‐glucose absorption was greater in jejunum from suckling rabbits (10–14 days old) compared to older animals when studied in Ussing‐type short‐circuited chambers, and jejunal tissue slices from these younger animals accumulated more intracellular D‐glucose. Net fluxes of 3–0‐methyl‐D‐glucose were also greater in jejunum from the younger age group, excluding this effect being due to substrate metabolism. Increased permeability of jejunal epithelium in immature animals was evidenced by larger unidirectional fluxes and higher conductance. The findings suggest that the developing jejunum, although more permeable, has an increased capacity for active sugar transport, a pattern differing from that seen with most other intestinal absorptive functions.
Thrombocytopenia and Hypofibrinogenemia in Association with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Mones Richard L.
Published: January 2024

There are many extra‐intestinal manifestations of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), some which are very uncommon in the pediatric age group. Coagulation abnormalities occur infrequently. Both hypercoagulability and hypocoagulability have been reported in adults (1). The hypercoagulable state is reflected in a general increase in concentration of clotting factors. This is observed most frequently in patients with poorly controlled intestinal disease and can lead to thromboembolic phenomena, including pulmonary and cerebral embolism. Conversely, patients with hypocoagulability may present with bleeding manifestations. We report a young patient with an abnormal coagulation profile as well as with thrombocytopenia in association with IBD.
De Novo Purine Nucleotide Synthesis in the Rat Small and Large Intestine
Authors: LeLeik Neal S. , Bronstein Andrew D. , Baliga B. Surendra , Munro Hamish N.
Published: January 2024

This study assessed the pathway for de novo purine nucleotide synthesis in rat small intestinal and colonic mucosal cells, and determined the effects of dietary purines and protein on de novo purine nucleotide synthetic activity in the small intestine in vitro. Incubation of small intestinal mucosal scrapings with [14C]glycine failed to show an active pathway of de novo synthesis; in contrast, the colon showed incorporation of [14C]glycine into RNA. Rats fed a diet deficient in purines demonstrated increased incorporation of [14C]glycine into RNA‐adrenine in small intestinal mucosal cells. Measurement of glutamine‐amidophosphoribosyltransferase demonstrated that, regardless of the purine content of the diet, enzyme activity in the small intestine is significantly lower than in the colon or liver The results indicate that, in the small intestine of the rat, there is an inactive de novo pathway of purine nucleotide biosynthesis that can be stimulated when purines are omitted from the diet.
Stability of Vitamin and Mineral Concentrations of a Low‐Birth‐Weight Infant Formula During Continuous
Authors: Antonson Dean L. , Smith Jack L. , Nelson Robert D. , Anderson A. Kathryn , Vanderhoof Jon A.
Published: January 2024

The stability of several vitamins and minerals of a new formula for premature infants, Similac(r) Special Care, was examined following passage through a simulated continuous infusion apparatus designed to duplicate that used for continuous enteral feeding in infants. The concentrations of calcium, iron, zinc, copper, magnesium, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E were measured before and after infusion at rates appropriate for delivering 120 calories/kg to infants weighing 733 and 1,000 g. Following passage through this apparatus, significant reductions were noted for calcium (44–54%), iron (23–34%), and zinc (18–32%). Concentrations of copper, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, and E remained stable. When another formula commonly used for premature infants, Similac 24LBW, was subjected to similar analysis, the concentrations of all vitamins and minerals studied remained stable. Our study demonstrates that infants fed Similac Special Care by continuous infusion may not receive the quantity of calcium, iron, and zinc implied by the product label.
Concentrations and Total Daily Output of Micronutrients in Breast Milk of Mothers Delivering Preterm
Authors: Moran J. Roberto , Vaughan Ross , Stroop Steven , Coy Sam , Johnston Howard , Greene Harry L.
Published: January 2024

The number of preterm infants fed their own mother's milk appears to be increasing as a result of information suggesting certain benefits over milk from human milk banks or proprietary formulas. It is also apparent that the nutritional requirements of term and preterm infants differ. Thus, the finding of various deficiencies in small preterm infants indicates that studies which examine the nutrient content of milk from mothers who deliver prematurely are important to aid in suggesting appropriate supplementation. In order to provide appropriate recommendations, nutrient content must be assayed during the period of exclusive milk feedings. Accordingly, the concentrations and total daily output of breast milk zinc and copper, and vitamins A, C, and E, were examined in a group of 13 mothers delivering at or before 32 weeks gestation. Collections of a total 24‐h output were obtained every 7 days for the first 7 weeks after delivery. Concentrations of all micronutrients were similar to those reported previously during the first 5 weeks of lactation. Most striking, however, was the progressive decline in total output as well as concentration of zinc. After the first 2 weeks of lactation, levels of copper and vitamins A, C, and E were not affected by the duration of lactation. There was substantial variation between mothers in daily output of all the micronutrients. The low output of these micronutrients suggests that some attempt should be made at monitoring the mineral and vitamin status of small preterm infants fed exclusively human milk for the first 3 months of life. This is particularly true of zinc, and vitamins A, E, and C, which, because of the wide variation in output between mothers, may not always meet the recommended dietary intakes.
Cholelithiasis in Children with Immunoglobulin A Deficiency
Authors: Danon Yehuda L. , Dinari Gabriel , Garty Ben‐Zion , Horodniceanu Charlotte , Nitzan Menachem , Grunebaum Michael
Published: January 2024

In view of the role of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in the local host defenses of the gut and biliary tract, and the association of IgA deficiency with various intestinal disorders, an ultrasonographic study was performed to determine the prevalence of gallstones in selective IgA deficiency. Eight of 13 children (three girls and five boys) with selective IgA deficiency had abnormal biliary sonograms. Four had cholelithiasis, and four had biliary sludge only. IgA deficiency may predispose to gallbladder infection, and thus to the development of gallstones. Decreased bile acid pool due to intestinal losses, and biliary stasis due to reduced hormonal gallbladder stimulation may also play a role in some cases, but further studies are needed. This association adds a new gastrointestinal abnormality to those known to be associated with selective IgA deficiency.
Potential for Mucosal Adaptation Following Massive Small Bowel Resection in 3‐Week‐Old Versus 8‐Week‐Old Rats
Authors: Vanderhoof Jon A. , Burkley Karen T. , Antonson Dean L.
Published: January 2024

In order to determine the relative capacity for bowel adaptation in young versus older rats, 60% bowel resections were performed in seven 3‐week‐old and seven 8‐week‐old rats. These animals were then pair‐fed with control animals that had undergone sham operations, and after 2 weeks, all animals were killed. Segments of remaining jejunum, midileum, and distal ileum were removed, and mucosa was scraped free using a glass slide. Mucosal wet weight, protein, RNA, DNA, and sucrase content were measured. Data were expressed as percent increase of each mucosal parameter in resected as opposed to control animals, and the two age groups were compared by unpaired t test. When data were examined per centimeter of bowel, increases in all parameters in each segment were substantially greater in the older animals, suggesting that older animals have a greater capacity for mucosal adaptation following massive bowel resection than do young animals. These findings correlate well with clinical experience which suggests that infants with massive bowel resection may require years of parenteral nutrition before total enteral nutrition is possible.
Fatty Liver and Kidney Syndrome in Chickens as an Animal Model for Reye's Syndrome
Authors: Awrich Paula , Madge Gordon E. , Wolf Barry
Published: January 2024

Fatty liver and kidney syndrome (FLKS), a naturally occurring but experimentally reproducible disease in chickens, has several clinical, pathological, and biochemical features in common with Reye's syndrome. Because of this, it has been suggested that FLKS may serve as an animal model of Reye's syndrome. We have examined, therefore, various parameters characteristic of Reye's syndrome in chickens affected with FLKS to further delineate the similarities and differences between the two disorders. Plasma glucose concentrations were significantly lower in chickens affected with FLKS which may be caused by the significantly reduced activity of pyruvate carboxylase in all FLKS‐affected animals. The activity of propionyl CoA carboxylase was low in only the most severely affected chickens, and †‐methylcrotonyl CoA carboxylase showed no difference when compared with controls. This may be due to variable sensitivities of the three carboxylases to marginal biotin deficiency which occurs with FLKS. Plasma ammonia concentrations and activities of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase and glutamic pyruvic transaminase, however, were not elevated in the affected birds. Histological changes in the liver and kidney were noted in affected chickens, but these changes were not identical with those observed in Reye's syndrome. Although the mechanisms of nitrogen elimination in fowl differ from those in humans, failure to demonstrate hyperammonemia, elevated serum transaminase activities, or similar histological changes in tissues of affected birds indicates that FLKS is not an appropriate model for the study of Reye's syndrome.
Serial Alterations in the Forms of Immunoreactive Pancreatic Cationic Trypsin in Plasma from Patients with Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Durie P. R. , Gaskin K. J. , Ogilvie J. E. , Smith C. R. , Forstner G. G. , Largman C.
Published: January 2024

We employed a radioimmunoassay for human cationic trypsin to define the time course for alterations in the molecular forms of this enzyme in plasma from patients with pancreatitis. Six patients developed acute pancreatitis as a complication of a known disorder [three, Reye's syndrome; two, hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS); one, choledochal cyst]. The immunoreactive forms of cationic trypsin were determined by gel filtration of each plasma sample followed by radioimmunoassay of the column fractions. Early in the course of the disease, predominantly free trypsinogen was released into the circulation in five patients. In the three patients with Reye's syndrome, subsequent plasma samples showed, in addition to free trypsinogen, increasing amounts of immunoreactive trypsin complexed to α2‐macroglobulin and α1‐protease inhibitor. In contrast, subsequent samples from the two patients with HUS contained little or no inhibitor‐bound trypsin. The remaining patient had intermediate concentrations of cationic trypsin complexed to these two circulating protease inhibitors. Five patients died and postmortem studies showed a striking correlation between the histological severity of acute pancreatic inflammation and the amount of immunoreactive trypsin complexed to α2‐macroglobulin and α1‐protease inhibitor. This preliminary study suggests that measurement of α2‐macroglobulin or α1‐protease inhibitor‐bound trypsin may be a useful method of monitoring the progression and severity of disease in patients with acute pancreatitis. Characterization of serial changes in the forms of circulating pancreatic proteases may enhance our understanding of time‐dependent pathophysiologic events, possibly leading to improved forms of specific therapy.
Colonic Ulceration in Histiocytosis X
Authors: Hyams Jeffrey S. , Haswell James E. , Gerber Michael A. , Berman Martin M.
Published: January 2024

Gastrointestinal symptoms in histiocytosis X are distinctly unusual. This report describes a 5‐month‐old infant with a prolonged history of lower gastrointestinal bleeding which was found to be caused by diffuse histiocytic infiltration of the colon. Immunopathologic and electron microscopic studies confirmed the diagnosis of histiocytosis X. The differential diagnosis of lower gastrointestinal bleeding in young children should include histiocytosis X.
Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage Due to Mallory‐Weiss Syndrome in an Infant
Authors: Cannon Robert A. , Lee Gordon , Cox Kenneth L.
Published: January 2024

A Mallory‐Weiss tear of the gastroesophageal mucosa is reported as an unusual cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in a 3‐week‐old infant. The lesion, documented by endoscopy, appeared to follow hiccups. The bleeding responded to conservative medical management and resolved without surgical intervention.
Iron and the Exclusively Breast‐Fed Infant from Birth to Six Months
Authors: Duncan Burris , Schifman Ron B. , Corrigan James J. , Schaefer Catherine
Published: January 2024

This study was designed to determine whether normal, full‐term, exclusively breast‐fed infants develop iron deficiency anemia, as defined by hemoglobin or red blood cell indices more than two standard deviations below the age‐specific mean, or depletion of iron stores, as defined by an abnormally low serum ferritin level. Thirty‐three breast‐fed infants were followed from birth to 6 months. Maternal blood and cord blood at delivery, and venous blood from the infants at 2, 4, and 6 months were analyzed for anemia as defined above. At 6 months of age, the mean hemoglobin concentration of these infants was slightly higher than the normal mean; four of 33 infants (12%) had a mean corpuscular volume > 2 SD below the reported normal mean; and two of 33 infants (6%) had a serum ferritin level < 12 ng protein/ml. These data suggest that the infant who is exclusively breast‐fed for the first 6 months of life is not at high risk for the development of iron deficiency anemia or the depletion of iron stores during that time.
Influence of Diet on the Development of Gastrin‐ and Somatostatin‐Like Immunoreactivity in the Stomach of Rats
Authors: Okahata Hiroyasu , Nishi Yoshikazu , Muraki Kotaro , Kumamoto Takashi , Sumioka Masaaki , Sumii Koji , Hide Michihiro , Tanaka Ko , Miyachi Yukitaka , Usui Tomufusa
Published: January 2024

The effects of changes in diet on antral gastrin‐like immunoreactivities and antral and corporal somatostatin‐like immunoreactivities were studied in three groups of young male rats. Group 1 rats were weaned physiologically, group 2 rats received only breast milk, and group 3 rats were fed milk until 20 days of age and then were switched abruptly to laboratory chow. In group 1, antral gastrin‐like immunoreactivity and somatostatin‐like immunoreactivity increased gradually from 13 days of age to adults. In group 2, antral gastrin‐like immunoreactivity did not increase, and antral and corporal somatostatin‐like immunoreactivity increased until 20 and 25 days of age, respectively. In group 3, there were three‐ to fivefold increases of antral gastrin‐like immunoreactivity and somatostatin‐like immunoreactivity after changing to laboratory chow. Dietary changes had no effect on the concentration of corporal somatostatin‐like immunoreactivity. These results suggest that the developmental patterns of gastric gastrin‐like immunoreactivity and somatostatin‐like immunoreactivity are closely related to diet; laboratory chow may play an important role in the development of these gut hormones.
Precocious Increase of Sucrase Activity by Carbohydrates in the Small Intestine of Suckling Rats. I. Significance of the Stress Effect of Sugar‐Induced Diarrhea
Authors: Goda T. , Yamada K. , Bustamante S. , Edmond J. , Grimes J. , Koldovsky O.
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we analyze the factors involved in the precocious increase of sucrase activity evoked by the early feeding of sucrose in suckling rats, and particularly, the role of diarrhea and stress in this phenomenon. Ten‐day‐old rats were removed from their mothers and gavage fed for 4 days at 3‐h intervals either a basic low carbohydrate milk formula (10.8% fat, 8% protein, 1.4% carbohydrate; all by weight/volume) or basic low carbohydrate milk with: lactose (13%), fructose (13%), or Polycose (2%, 6%, or 13%); all formulas were isocaloric. Feeding the formula containing fructose or high (13%) Polycose led to diarrhea and evoked a concurrent increase of small intestinal sucrase activity. In further experiments, 11‐day‐old rats were fed the basic formula, the lactose (13%), the fructose (13%), and a sucrose (13%) formula for 8 h between 2 a.m. and 10 a.m. Also, 10‐day‐old rats were fed 0.5 ml of a solution of 5% mannitol in water while nursing with their mothers. The serum corticosterone levels were substantially increased within 8 h after the initiation of feedings with sucrose and fructose milks and the mannitol solution. The mannitol‐fed rats also developed diarrhea within a day in association with a marked increase in sucrase activity. We conclude that a precocious increase of sucrase activity in the small intestine of suckling rats by dietary sugars is not caused by substrate induction, but is mainly due to the effect of stress. The stress is caused by diarrhea which is evoked by the feeding of indigestible and/or un‐absorbable amounts of sugar.
Prevention of Perinatally Transmitted Hepatitis B Virus Infection by Hepatitis B Immunoglobulin Immunoprophylaxis
Authors: Foschini Maria , De Toni Antonio , Padula Deborah , Pizzocolo Giuseppe , Arrighini Alberto , Zunin Carlo
Published: January 2024

Of 5,327 pregnant women who were screened between July 1981 and July 1983, 5.2% were found to be hepatitis Bs antigen (HBsAg) carriers. This high percentage of carriers accentuates the importance of vertical transmission of hepatitis B virus in our area. In view of this we sought to verify the effectiveness of hyperimmune immunoglobulins in the prevention of infection. We studied 201 babies born to HBsAg‐positive mothers. These babies had regular checkups until 12 months of age. One hundred forty‐nine received prophylactic hyperimmune globulin (two to seven doses according to risk ranking), while 52 did not. A higher percentage of infection was found in the babies who had no prophylaxis (25%) than in the babies who had prophylaxis (7.4%). Furthermore, hepatitis appeared earlier (from the 2nd to the 6th month) in the babies who had no prophylaxis than in the babies who had prophylaxis (from the 9th to the 12th month). No infection was observed during prophylaxis or up to 6 months.
Erythrocyte Lipid Alterations in Pediatric Cholestatic Liver Disease
Authors: Cynamon Harry A. , Isenberg J. Nevin , Gustavson Lillian P. , Gourley William K.
Published: January 2024

Spur cell anemia of liver disease is a hemolytic process characterized by spiculated erythrocytes and an elevated red cell membrane cholesterol/phospholipid (C/ PL) molar ratio. This form of anemia is associated almost exclusively with adults in the advanced stages of alcoholic cirrhosis. We were therefore surprised to identify two unrelated infants with cholestatic liver disease and hemolytic anemia who had spiculated erythrocytes as the major abnormal cell form on peripheral smear. Erythrocyte membrane cholesterol and phospholipid determinations from these patients were compared with six infants with extrahepatic biliary atresia and target‐shaped erythrocytes and with five normal adults. Erythrocyte C/PL molar ratio distinguished target cells from normal erythrocytes (p < 0.01). The spur cell patients' erythrocyte C/PL molar ratios were clearly greater than either target cell patients or normal controls (1.30 vs. 1.02 vs. 0.84). Both patients' spur cell anemia resolved and target cells became the major abnormal erythrocyte form. These studies identify a transient form of spur cell anemia associated with infantile cholestatic liver disease. The factors leading to the formation of spur cell anemia in infancy require further investigation
Esophageal Stricture Dilatation in Awake Children
Authors: Orenstein S. R. , Whitington P. F.
Published: January 2024

Dilatation of esophageal strictures in children has generally been performed in the hospital under general anesthesia, or under deep sedation. We report here a series of 211 dilatations in 13 pediatric patients who had these procedures performed in the outpatient department, 72% of them without any sedation, during a 4‐year period. This report characterizes the children, the method of outpatient dilatation, and our results. At the end of the study period, six of the patients no longer required dilatation after five to 14 procedures; four patients still required dilatation at twice‐yearly intervals; and three patients remained on an active schedule of dilatations at intervals less than 5 months. Esophageal lumen diameter increased and symptoms improved in all of the children. Catch‐up weight gain occurred in one‐half of those initially below the 10th percentile. Dilatation without anesthesia or sedation was preferred by all of the parents, and by those children old enough to express a preference. Estimated reduction of medical costs by more than $100,000 was realized, compared with boug‐inage using general anesthesia. No episode of perforation, significant hemorrhage, documentable aspiration, or neurologic complication occurred. Outpatient dilatation without anesthesia is an effective method of treating esophageal strictures in children.
Intestinal Resection in the Neonatal Rat
Authors: Andrew Ford W. D. , Kleinman Ronald E. , Walter W. , de Vries Johannes E. , Boelhouwer Roelof U. , Ross Jeffrey S. , Malt Ronald A.
Published: January 2024

To investigate whether intestinal resection accelerates mucosal maturation in suckling rats, macromolec ular absorption, sucrase and lactase activity, RNA/DNA ratios, and intestinal morphology were determined 5 days after partial small intestinal resection or intestinal transection in 15 day old rats. Villous height and crypt depth, lactase and sucrase activity, and RNA/DNA ratios were significantly increased in remaining intestine in animals that underwent surgery. These animals, together with normal control animals, were also gavaged with 100 mg bovine serum albumin, and serum levels were determined after 2.5 h. Mean serum levels of bovine serum albumin were 0.135 ± 0.034 μg/ml/cm of residual intestine after trans section, 0.257 ± 0.078 μg/ml/cm after resection, and 0.404 ± 0.030 μg/ml/cm in controls. These studies demonstrate that intestinal resection during the suckling period of the infant rat results in several morphologic and physiologic changes that resemble precocious maturation of the small intestine.
A New Ambulatory System for Extended Esophageal pH Monitoring
Authors: Newman Leonard J. , Berezin Stuart , San Filippo J. Anthony , Halata Michael , Medow Marvin S. , Schwarz Steven M.
Published: January 2024

Summary:

A new 24‐h ambulatory esophageal pH monitoring system (AMBI 24) was evaluated in 72 pediatric patients with suspected gastroesophageal reflux (GER). Fortyseven of these patients were monitored at home and the other 25 in our hospital. This system was employed without complication in infants and a full range of pediatric patients, as well as in older children with severe psychomotor delay. The data obtained were consistent with those reported utilizing standard monitoring equipment, and the results served as the basis for subsequent medical management. The results of this study, therefore, suggest that this method of esophageal pH monitoring is a safe and effective means of evaluating GER while allowing for patient mobility.
Isolation and Characterization of Two Particle‐Bound Oligoaminopeptidases from Human Meconium that are Different from Oligoaminopeptidase of Adult Small Intestine
Authors: Caporale Carlo , Fontana Pasqualina , Fontanella Angiola , Murolo Emma , Santamaria Francesca , Auricchio Salvatore
Published: January 2024

Two oligoaminopeptidases (substrate L‐leucyl‐β‐naphthylamide) have been separated by ion exchange chromatography after Triton solubilization of meconial particles. The quantitatively major form (oligoaminopeptidase II) has been purified to apparent homogeneity. The two meconial oligoaminopeptidases differ from each other in their polyacrylamide gel electrophoretic mobility and iso‐electric points. Both meconial enzymes differ from the adult enzyme by having more acidic isoelectric points and different affinities to Helix pomatia lectin‐Sepharose columns. Oligoaminopeptidase II has a faster anodal electrophoretic mobility than the adult enzyme but a similar apparent molecular weight and subunit structure. Extensive neuramini‐dase digestion of meconial oligoaminopeptidase II does not modify the gel electrophoretic mobility of the enzyme. The charge difference between adult and meconial human brush border oligoaminopeptidases is therefore probably due, at least in part, to differences in the carbohydrate composition of these glycoproteins, and differences in the number of terminal or exposed sialic acid residues do not explain the observed charge differences.
Comparison of Fatty Acid Composition of Plasma Lipid Fractions in Well‐Nourished Nigerian and German Infants and Toddlers
Authors: Koletzko B. , Abiodun P. O. , Laryea M. D. , Schmid S. , Bremer H. J.
Published: January 2024

The dietary intake of essential fatty acids is reflected by the plasma lipid composition. Only scanty data is available on the pattern of plasma fatty acids in young children and the influence of different environments. We analyzed the fatty acid composition of plasma sterolesters, triglycerides, and phospholipids in well‐nourished‐appearing children from Benin City, Nigeria (n = 8; aged 14.1 ± 7.2 months) and Düsseldorf, FRG (n = 17; aged 15.2 ± 5.1 months). The Nigerian group tended to have bigger proportions of the essential ‐6‐fatty acids, linoleic acid, and its metabolites, and by far higher values for long‐chain co‐3‐fatty acids, which are considered to be protective against atherogenesis. The saturated and nonessential monoenoic fatty acids tended to be lower in the Nigerian children, and the ratio of polyun‐saturated to saturated fatty acids was higher. We conclude that the quality of dietary fat in the German children was worse and may imply an increased risk for development of atherosclerosis.
Autoradiographic Localization of (3H)‐Thymidine Incorporation in the Small Intestinal Epithelium of Fetal Sheep
Authors: Trahair J. F. , Perry R. A. , Silver M. , Robinson P. M.
Published: January 2024

Aspects of the cell kinetics of the developing intestinal epithelium of fetal sheep were investigated by autoradiography. The sites of (3H)‐thymidine uptake were localized in the small intestinal epithelium of fetal sheep from 60 to 145 days' gestation. Labeled cells were always confined to the intervillus progenitive zone, either between the bases of adjacent villi in the younger fetuses or in crypts. There were no labeled cells within the villus epithelium. Labeled and unlabeled cells within the progenitive zones were counted in proximal and distal regions of the small intestine. The proportion of cells labeled (PCL) was unaffected by the route of administration of (3H)‐thymidine into the fetus. There was no clear age‐related trend in PCL of the distal region (mean distal PCL, 0.23 ± 0.03). On the other hand, in proximal regions, PCL was at its highest value at 60 days (0.33), falling to a minimum of 0.14 at 130 days, before rising to 0.25 (± 0.04) at 136 days. These results demonstrate that the proliferation of enterocytes in utero is qualitatively similar to that in the adult, being confined to a distinct progenitive zone. Such a finding is an important first step in understanding changes in enterocyte structure and function, since this may, as seen in the adult, be largely determined by the rates of division and renewal.
Duodenal Gangliocytic Paraganglioma Occurring in Adolescence
Authors: Sando William C. , Mills Stacey E. , Rodgers Bradley M.
Published: January 2024

A 15‐year‐old boy complained of abdominal pain and massive upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Endoscopic evaluation demonstrated an ulcerated, submucosal mass involving the ampulla. This was locally excised and found to show the characteristic histologic and ultrastructural features of a gangliocytic paraganglioma. Similar lesions have been reported in 29 patients with a mean age of 55 years (range, 32–80). Twenty‐six patients complained of abdominal pain or gastrointestinal bleeding, symptoms that mimic those of peptic ulcer disease. These tumors are uniformly benign, nonencapsulated, and submucosal. They usually arise in the second portion of the duodenum and are treated by simple excision. This patient is the youngest reported, and his case is presented as an illustration of an unusual tumor that can masquerade clinically and radiologically as a duodenal ulcer. The importance of endoscopic evaluation is stressed.
Prostaglandin Metabolism in Children With Diabetes Mellitus. I. Plasma Prostaglandin E2, F2α, TXB2, and Serum Fatty Acid Levels
Authors: Arisaka M. , Arisaka O. , Fukuda Y. , Yamashiro Y.
Published: January 2024

To study prostaglandin (PG) metabolism in children with insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus, plasma levels of PGE2, PGF2α, and thromboxane B2 and the composition of serum fatty acids were measured. Platelet aggregation, a risk factor in diabetic vascular complications, was also measured. The mean levels of plasma PGE2 and PGF2α were high and serum dihomo‐gamma‐linolenic acid and arachidonic acid were low in the diabetic children. The plasma thromboxane B2 levels of the diabetic children and normal controls were not significantly different. Platelet aggregation was also increased in diabetic patients. These results suggest that the insulin deficiency and high blood sugar in diabetic children may disturb the supply of dihomo‐gamma‐linolenic acid from cis‐linoleic acid, decreasing prostaglandin formation in series 1. Then feedback regulation may increase production of PGE2 and PGF2α in series 2. Altered PG metabolism may be responsible for the occurrence and progression of vascular complications in the diabetic children.
Ultrastructural Findings in the Jejunal Mucosa of Children With IgA Deficiency
Authors: Giorgi Pier Luigi , Catassi Carlo , Sbarbati Andrea , Bearzi Italo , Cinti Saverio
Published: January 2024

The primary aim of this work was to investigate the ultrastructural morphology of the small intestinal mucosa in children affected by selective IgA deficiency (SIgAD). Absorptive tests and intestinal biopsies were performed in a group of nine children with SIgAD, none of them presenting with diarrhea. Biopsy specimens were processed for routine histology and scanning or transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM). By light microscopy, the jejunal mucosa appeared normal in all but one patient with patchy villous atrophy. By SEM, two further biopsies showed small areas of flat mucosa surrounded by villous ridges of nearly normal height. By TEM, four out of the nine mucosal specimens showed degenerative changes of the surface epithelium, including enlargement of the mitochondria, apical accumulation of primary and secondary lysosomes, and shortening and branching of the microvilli. These findings suggest that the small intestinal mucosa of children with SIgAD often shows pathological changes, some of which are recognizable only at the ultrastructural level. The study of biopsy specimens by SEM seems to be a useful diagnostic tool when patchy mucosal damage may occur, as in some of our patients with SIgAD.
Diagnosis of Congenital Glucose‐Galactose Malabsorption by Measuring Sugar‐ and Amino Acid‐Evoked Potential Differences in Jejunum in Vivo
Authors: Igarashi Y. , Ohkohchi N. , Kikuta A. , Suzuki J. , Tada K.
Published: January 2024

A girl who was clinically suspected of having congenital glucose‐galactose malabsorption was investigated for sugar‐ and amino acid‐evoked potential differences in the jejunum in vivo using a jejunal perfusion technique. She was fed an ordinary diet without suffering diarrhea at the time (at age 2) of this study. Her nutritional condition and development were normal. The disaccharidase activities of a biopsy specimen of the jejunal mucosa, which were assayed at 1 year of age when she was not having diarrhea, were normal. Jejunal perfusion of 100‐m M solutions of D‐glucose or D‐maltose evoked no significant change in the electrical potential difference. On the other hand, 100 m M of L‐glycine or L‐leucine solution evoked a normal increase of the lumen negative potential difference (4.4 mV and 3.6 mV, respectively). Therefore, the patient was diagnosed as having congenital glucose‐galactose malabsorption due to a defect of Na‐dependent glucose‐galactose active transport. These findings indicate that the measurement of sugar‐ and amino acid‐evoked potential differences is a simple and reliable method for the diagnosis of congenital glucose‐ galactose malabsorption.
Acetylcholinesterase Activity in Rectal Biopsies
Authors: Wells F. E. , Addison G. M.
Published: January 2024

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was measured in rectal suction biopsies from 392 patients investigated for Hirschsprung's disease (HD). Results in HD (2.7–23.7 RU; n = 37) were not clearly differentiated from those in patients without HD (0.6–18.0 RU; n =355). Sample instability was shown not to be a significant cause of error. From analysis of duplicate biopsies and a consideration of false‐negative results, tissue inhomogeneity or incorrect siting of the biopsy appeared likely causes of error. Examination of a number of possible diagnostic decision levels indicated an optimal choice of AChE activity greater than 10 RU with an AChE activity not less than 60% of total cholinesterase activity. At a prevalence of 10%, this decision level resulted in sensitivity of 64.9%, specificity 98.7%, predictive value of positive 85.7%, and predictive value of negative 96.3%. The false positives (n = 4) and false negatives (n = 13) by these criteria were examined to detect possible common features.
Energy Concentration of Human Milk Estimated from 24‐h Pools and Various Abbreviated Sampling Schemes
Authors: Garza Cutberto , Butte Nancy F.
Published: January 2024

The concentration of gross energy in 24‐h pooled samples of milk is compared with that of single samples obtained during the same period. Samples were collected from mothers exclusively breastfeeding their infants on demand. The objective of the comparison was to evaluate simplified sampling schemes for approximating the concentration of energy of milk produced over 24 h. The lowest concentration of energy of single samples occurred in milk collected between 12 midnight and 6 a.m. The concentration of energy of milk was related negatively to the volume expressed and the time interval preceding each expression. The interval preceding each expression was correlated positively to the volume expressed. These results indicate that the pattern of milk expression is important in the design of sampling schemes. Therefore, sampling schemes may not be transferable between populations with distinct feeding patterns. The highest correlation between single samples and the 24‐h value was obtained from samples collected between 12 midnight and 6 a.m. (r = 0.84, p < 0.001). The widths of the 95% confidence and prediction intervals for the equation relating values from single samples to the 24‐h pools were ± 2.7% and ± 10.5%, respectively, of the mean 24‐h pool sample value when three single samples (collected between 12 midnight and 6 a.m., 6 a.m. and 12 noon, and 6 p.m. and 12 midnight) were included in the predictive equation.