bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Presence of Endopeptidase 24.11 during the Ontogeny of the Small Intestine in Different Species
Authors: Lecavalier H. , Crine P. , Malo C.
Published: September 2009

The presence of endopeptidase 24.11 has been demonstrated at different periods of development in the small intestine of rat, rabbit and human, by immunoblotting using monoclonal antibodies raised against the rabbit kidney enzyme. The kinetic characteristics of the rabbit intestinal enzyme were determined after its purification by immunoaffinity column using the same antibodies. The endopeptidase 24.11 appears in the suckling rabbit as a low-affinity, high-capacity form, suggesting a role of this enzyme in the extracellular digestion of proteins in the young animal.
Unconjugated and Conjugated Bilirubin Pigments during Perinatal Development
Authors: Muraca M. , Rubaltelli F.F. , Blanckaert N. , Fevery J.
Published: September 2009

A recently developed reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography procedure was applied to the analysis of bilirubins present in serum of neonates. In normal newborns, unconjugated (UCB) and conjugated bilirubins (CB) rose in parallel from day 2 to day 4: the average conjugated fraction remained between 1.2 and 1.6% of total pigment, significantly below the 3.6% documented in adults. However, the absolute concentration of conjugates was 2- to 6-fold higher than the serum levels in adults. Bilirubin conjugates were detected in all samples, but only 20% of these were bilirubin diconjugates, in contrast to a mean of 54% in the adult population. The increased absolute concentrations of UCB and CB together with the decreased fractional amount of conjugates and with the decreased diconjugates seem to be the result of an increased bilirubin production combined with a relative deficiency of the conjugation in the newborn. The bile pigment analysis did not point to a defective biliary secretion. Serum bile acids were high but did not correlate with the levels of bilirubin conjugates. The pattern of serum bilirubins was not different in 4 newborns with hemolytic syndromes. Cholestasis occurred in another child with hemolysis; this was evident from the high concentration and the high fractional amount of conjugates and from the high serum bile acids level.
Radiant Heat Loss versus Radiant Heat Gain in Premature Neonates under Radiant Warmers
Authors: Baumgart Stephen
Published: September 2009

Premature infants nursed on open radiant warmer beds are exposed to short-wavelength infrared power density distributed evenly over the bed surface. Additionally, infants’ sides are exposed to relatively cooler nursery walls, and to the radiant warmer bed platform which may heat and reradiate to the baby. Therefore, infants may not only gain heat from the warmer (Qradiant warmer) but lose or gain radiant heat to the sides as well ( ± Qradiant loss). In order to quantitate these parameters, ten premature newborn infants nursed under radiant warmers servocontrolled to 36.5 °C skin temperature (weight 1.27 ± 0.24 SD kg, gestation 31 ± 3 weeks) were investigated, and partitional calorimetry previously reported. In the present study, calculation of net rate of radiant heat transfer (Qnet radiant) was made from these data (––2.63 ± ––1.52 kcal/kg/h), and compared to direct measurements of Qradiant warmer (––2.49 ± ––0.90 kcal/kg/h). The present report further partitions net radiant heat transfer to evaluate Qradiant loss: ––0.13 ± 1.82 kcal/kg/h (range-3.16 to 1.93). From these calculations mean radiant temperature of this environment was estimated (45.3 ± 4.3 °C) and compared to the radiant warmer temperature received (45.0 ± 2.9 °C). This information suggests other strategies to reduce radiant heat loss as well as convective and evaporative losses in premature neonates nursed on open radiant warmer beds.
Hemoglobin Oxygen Dissociation (P50) in Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Furfaro Susanna , Prosmanne Janie , Bard Harry
Published: September 2009

A study was devised to determine the P50 in infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Other factors such as red blood cell 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG) level proportions of adult (HbA) to fetal (HbF) hemoglobins which could affect P50 were also measured. Fourteen infants with clinical and radiological signs of BPD with a mean post-conceptional age of 42.2 ± 4.7 weeks born at a mean gestational age of 29.3 ± 2.0 weeks were evaluated. The percentage of HbF determined in 8 infants was 40.1 ± 20.3% and the mean 2,3-DPG concentrations was 13.1 ± 2.2 μmol/g Hb. The P50 was 25.1 ± 2.7 mm Hg (range 18–29.5 mm Hg). When a HbO2 curve was established based on a large volume of blood consisting of adult blood and newborn cord blood mixed to attain a P50 of 25.1 mm Hg, the PaO2 at 90% O2 saturation was 52 mm Hg. Since there can be a wide range in HbO2 in infants with chronic BPD, pulse oximetry remains the most prudent method of monitoring oxygen therapy in BPD infants.
Observations on the Intestinal Colonization by Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Newborn Infants
Authors: Borderon E. , Thieffry J.C. , Jamet O. , Poisson D. , Boisseau C. , Farid I.A.
Published: September 2009

We studied the intestinal flora of 23 newborns, whose meconium had yielded a pure culture of Pseudomonas aeruginosa on blood agar medium. Twelve infants had a single serotype of P. aeruginosa in their meconium, 10 had a second serotype and the last infant was carrying three distinct ones. The maximum levels of P. aeruginosa observed during the first week of life were variable among the infants: 1 · 103 to 1 · 1010 CFU/g of stools. The levels diminished progressively afterwards, and after 1 year of age only 1 of the 13 infants examined remained a carrier of P. aeruginosa. In 11 infants a second or a third serotype occurred during the course of the study. The serotypes that appeared secondarily always disappeared before the initial ones. Antibiotics: ampicillin + gentamicin or cefotaxime + netilmicin and colistin which were given to 8 infants had no clear effect on P. aeruginosa levels. Four infants had delayed colonization by Escherichia coli of ≧10 days. All 4 had high levels of P. aeruginosa: 1·107 to 1·1010 CFU/g stool, and antibiotic therapy, rendering it impossible to assess which was the cause of this delay. This colonization by P. aeruginosa did not lead to any clinical trouble.
Relationship of Urinary Anion Gap to Urinary Ammonium Excretion in the Neonate
Authors: Sulyok E. , Guignard J.-P.
Published: September 2009

The present study was undertaken to define the relationship of urinary anion gap (UAG = sodium plus potassium minus chloride) to urine ammonium concentration in preterm and full-term neonates with spontaneous and NH4Cl-induced metabolic acidosis. Studies were performed in 10 premature infants (mean birth weight: 1,618 g, gestational age: 30.8 weeks) weekly for 6 consecutive weeks, in 11 full-term neonates (mean birth weight: 3,085 g, gestational age: 38.6 weeks) on the 7th day of life and in 25 older control infants (mean age: 6.5 months, body weight: 6,802 g) before and after NH4Cl-loading test.
Effect of a Low Protein Diet during Pregnancy on the Fetal Rat Endocrine Pancreas
Authors: Snoeck Anne , Remacle Claude , Reusens Brigitte , Hoet Joseph J.
Published: September 2009

The administration of a low protein (LP, 8% protein/dry matter) but isocaloric diet to gestating rats did not affect their fertility, but slightly reduced the quantity of food intake as well as body weight gain. The LP diet also did not affect the placental weight, but the weight of the offspring was decreased. Accordingly the fetal endocrine pancreas was altered by the LP diet. Two different morphometric analyses showed that in the LP neonate B-cell proliferation and islet size were reduced in the head of the pancreas. In the pancreatic tail, these parameters were also decreased but to a lesser extend. Islet vascularization in the neonates was dramatically reduced in both parts of the pancreas when the mothers were fed with the LP diet.
Effect of Postnatal Hypoxia on Ammonia Metabolism during the Early Neonatal Period in the Rat
Authors: Vicario Carlos , Juanes Maria C. , Martín-Barrientos Josefa , Medina José M.
Published: September 2009

The effect of experimental hypoxia on blood glutamine, glutamate, urea, ammonia, allantoin, hypoxanthine, xanthine, urate, orotate and lactate concentrations and on PO2, PCO2 and, pH m term delivered newborn rats during the first 4 h after delivery were studied. Hypoxia increased blood glutamine, glutamate, allantoin and ‘xanthines’ (hypoxanthine + xanthine + uric acid) concentrations but decreased blood urea and ammonia concentrations. These results suggest that hypoxia inhibited ureogenesis by decreasing the ammonia available for urea synthesis.
Hepatic Impairment in Fetuses of Preeclamptic Mothers
Authors: Lox Charles , Harral Ann , Corrigan James J.
Published: September 2009

Cord blood from preeclamptic and normal gestations were analyzed for the vitamin K-dependent proteins, factors II, VII, IX, X, and protein C, and for fibrinogen and albumin. Factor II, factor IX, protein C, and albumin protein levels were reduced in the preeclamptic group, whereas there was no significant change in the fibrinogen or factor X protein levels. The data suggest that these findings are probably due to decreased synthesis and are not indicative of vitamin K deficiency.
Sleep Apneas and Acid Esophageal Reflux in Control Infants and in Infants with an Apparent Life-Threatening Event
Authors: Kahn A. , Rebuffat E. , Sottiaux M. , Blum D. , Yasik E.A.
Published: September 2009

Clinical experience shows that episodes of apnea can occur during regurgitations or vomiting. We questioned whether sleep apneas could be related temporally to documented falls in esophageal pH, when no clinical symptoms of emesis are witnessed. Twenty infants admitted after an apparently life-threatening event (‘ALTE’) during sleep, but with no clinical symptoms of vomiting or regurgitations at the time of the event, and ten control infants were studied. All infants had occasional episodes of regurgitations. Polygraphic monitoring of state of alertness, cardiorespiratory activity and low esophageal pH was performed continuously during 1 night. The data were analyzed blindly. A total of 334 central and 36 obstructive apneas were monitored, mainly in the ALTE group, during NREM sleep. A total of 116 falls in esophageal pH below 4 units were seen in 18 infants; 50% occurred during wakefulness, and 31 % in REM sleep. Arousals or body movements preceded the pH fall in 50% of the cases. Within 5 min following the reflux onset, 18 central apneas (7.2% of the apneas) were seen. There was no correlation between the duration, or the lowest values of esophageal pH measured, and the number or duration of apneas. No obstructive apnea, bradycardia or arousal followed the falls in esophageal pH. Acid esophageal reflux did not play a significant role in the development of apnea in our population.
Correlation between Levels of Plasma Adenosine Triphosphate and Stress to the Fetus at Delivery
Authors: Fukuda Sumio , Katoh Setsushi , Yamamoto Kazuhiko , Hashimoto Michio , Kitao Manabu
Published: September 2009

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and its metabolites are released from intracellular stores and levels of ATP in the plasma are affected by hypoxia and by exercise. We examined levels of plasma ATP in the fetus at the time of obstetrical delivery. The arterial (ACB), venous cord (VCB) and maternal venous blood (MVB) samples were collected immediately after clamping of the cord. ATP was determined by the bioluminescence method. The levels of plasma ATP were significantly higher in ACB than in VCB or in MVB. There were significant correlations between the levels of ATP in ACB and in VCB, between the levels in ACB and in MVB and between the levels in MVB and in VCB. In case of delivery by elective cesarean section, the levels of ATP in ACB were significantly higher than those in ACB of the fetus delivered vaginally. We found a significant correlation between the levels of plasma ATP in ACB and PO2 in VCB, though there was no significant correlation between the levels of ATP and pH and PCO2. These observations suggest that ATP in ACB may be of fetal origin, that the levels decrease concomitantly in response to stress during vaginal delivery and correlate with the oxygen supplied from the placenta.
Cis- and Trans-Isomeric Fatty Acids in Plasma Lipids of Newborn Infants and Their Mothers
Authors: Koletzko Berthold , Müller Joachim
Published: September 2009

The proportionate fatty acid composition of plasma lipids was determined by high-resolution gas-liquid chromatography in 30 pairs of mothers and their term infants at the time of birth. Trans-fatty acids were found at similar percentage levels in maternal and infantile plasma, evidence for the first time of their placental permeability. In umbilical plasma, linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids contributed markedly smaller portions to total fatty acids, in contrast to clearly higher proportions of their long-chain polyunsaturated metabolites (LCP). Significantly larger percentage values in cord than in maternal plasma were found for those LCP that are structural components of brain lipids, which may reflect a discriminating placental transport mechanism for certain physiologically important LCP.
Neutral and Acidic Goblet Cell Concentrations in the Small Intestine of the Unweaned Pig
Authors: Dunsford B.R. , Haensly W.E. , Knabe D.A.
Published: September 2009

Concentrations of Alcian blue (AB+) and periodic acid-Schiff (PAS+) staining goblet cells on small intestinal villi and in intestinal glands of unweaned pigs were determined. Samples from the distal duodenum, mid jejunum, and distal jejunum were taken from 7 pigs from each of 4 litters at ages 9, 18, 24, 27, 30, 33 and 36 days. The only concentration differences between litters were observed in the mid-jejunal villi AB+ staining goblet cells (p = 0.03) so that litter origin of piglets was basically nonexistent. Concentrations of goblet cells increased with age on the villous AB+ and PAS+ cells in the duodenum and in the mid jejunum (p < 0.03). No other differences in goblet cell concentrations were observed.
Intrauterine Exposure to Parathion Increases Its Disposition Rate in Postnatal Life
Authors: Jaramillo Fernando , Reyes José Luis
Published: September 2009

The effect of in utero exposure to parathion was assessed in offspring from dams treated with low doses of parathion during gestation. An analytical method to measure parathion in small blood samples (200 μl) was used which prevented significant bleeding during sampling. Pharmacokinetic studies were performed in anesthetized 6-week-old male rats and showed a monoexponential pattern of elimination. The offspring exposed in utero to parathion depicted a higher plasma disposition rate of the insecticide than the control group (T1/2e1 60 ± 18.2 and 24.8 ± 13.1 min, respectively; p < 0.05), suggesting the presence of some adaptive mechanism. This mechanism might render the in utero exposed animal less liable to the toxic effects of this pesticide during the postnatal life. The increase observed in the elimination rate does not seem to be due to higher secretory activity of the kidney, and metabolic mechanisms might be involved.
Congenital Malformations in Offspring of Diabetic Rats: Experimental Study on the Influence of the Diet Composition and Magnesium Intake
Authors: Giavini Erminio , Prati Mariangela , Roversi Giandomenico
Published: September 2009

In spite of improvements in the treatment of diabetes, the risk of congenital malformations in diabetic pregnancy is three to four times higher than in normal pregnancy. This might be due to the metabolic abnormalities of diabetic pregnancy that also affect mineral metabolism. Since diabetes can lower both maternal and fetal blood Mg levels, and Mg deficiency has been shown to be teratogenic in laboratory animals, we decided to investigate which effects Mg deficiency would have in inducing embryopathy in diabetic animals. Female CD rats were divided into six groups. Groups 1 and 2 were fed a standard diet (Mg content 4,200 ppm), groups 3–6 a purified diet (Mg contents 4,200, 500, 250, or 125 ppm). Groups 2–6 had been made diabetic by an intravenous injection of 50 mg/kg streptozocin 1 week before mating. The rats were killed on day 21 of pregnancy, and the live fetuses were examined for external, skeletal, and visceral malformations. The maternal and fetal blood glucose levels were the same in all diabetic groups. The maternal Mg levels in groups 2 and 3 were the same as in controls, but definitely lower in groups 4–6. Embryotoxicity (embryonic deaths, delayed development, congenital malformations) was higher in the groups fed the purified diet than in group 2, but without a clear relation to the dietary Mg levels. We cannot draw any conclusions about the effects of Mg deficiency in diabetic pregnancy from our results, but they show that the quality of the diet is of major importance in the manifestation of embryotoxicity in diabetes.
Effect of Hyperthermia on Thyroid Structure in the Late Gestation Fetal Lamb
Authors: Andrianakis P. , Stephenson R.G.A. , Walker D.W.
Published: September 2009

This study examined the effect of hyperthermia in late gestation on fetal thyroid structure. Mild heat stress (increase of ewe’s rectal temperature to 40.4°C) caused significant changes of fetal thyroid structure. Intra-follicular colloid area was significantly larger in the heat-stressed group (2,532 ± 181 μm2) compared to a control group where rectal temperature of the ewe was within the normal range (1,660 ± 188 μm2; p < 0.01). Epithelial cell height was significantly reduced (2.5 ± 0.19 vs. 4.8 ± 0.26 μm; p < 0.01). Fetal plasma glucose concentrations were significantly lower in the heat-stressed group (0.7 ± 0.07 mmol/l) compared to the non-heated group (1.0 ± 0.11 mmol/l; p < 0.05). We suggest that the fetal thyroid gland in sheep is responsive to environmental temperature changes and is important in the neuroendocrine regulation of fetal body temperature. Fetal hypoglycaemia may also contribute to the changes in fetal thyroid gland by altering the peripheral utilization of thyroid hormone. Such changes, if prolonged, may contribute to the decreased rate of fetal growth and maturation associated with chronic heat stress in sheep.
Effect on the Fetus of Infusing a Commercial Amino Acid Preparation into a Pregnant Sheep
Authors: MacMahon R.A. , Frampton R.J. , Yardley R.W.
Published: September 2009

The common clinical practice of intravenous feeding of the pregnant woman poses the question of the effect on the fetus of such infusions. We have used the sheep as a model to study the change in fetal amino acid levels after a maternal infusion of Synthamin 13. The maternal plasma aminogram largely reflects the amino acid pattern in the infusate. However, in the fetal circulation only the branched chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine and valine), phenylalanine and alanine rose significantly after infusion. Only leucine and isoleucine were observed to spill into the fetal urine. The results suggest that the ovine placenta selectively modifies the amino acid profile presented to the fetus when the maternal plasma aminogram is distorted. However, the fetus is not totally protected from changes in phenylalanine, which in high concentrations, is detrimental to normal development.
Brain Damage in Monozygous Twins
Authors: Larroche J.Cl. , Droullé P. , Delezoide A.L. , Narcy F. , Nessmann C.
Published: September 2009

A series of 15 monochorionic twins with a great variety of cerebral lesions is reported. Seven cases illustrate the classical situation: the recipient twin was affected and his co-twin, the donor was macerated. In 5 cases, the lesions were described in the donor twin as well and once, as early as 22 weeks. The lesions were usually hypoxic-ischemic, in 2 they were hemorrhagic. In 1 case there was a malformation. Fetal US were performed in 11 cases and the diagnosis of either IUGR, death of a fetus and/or brain lesions in the survivor could be made in 10 cases and once as early as 21 weeks. In fetuses born alive, transfontanellar US or CT scan have confirmed the diagnosis made on fetal US. The pathogenesis of the lesions is not fully understood. Lesions in the recipient twin may result from emboli or thromboplastic material originating from the macerated co-twin. We suggest that blood pressure instability or episodes of severe hypotension might as well lead to brain and/or visceral lesions in the recipient twin. In the donor, the lesions result from hypotension and/or anemia. With improvement and generalization of imaging techniques, the vitality of the fetuses as well as biometric parameters and anatomical structures will be better controlled. However, in case of a fetal death, occurrence of lesions in the survivor is unpredictable and no uniform policy has been proposed yet. Studies with Doppler and continuous monitoring of funicular circulation should improve our knowledge on feto-fetal transfusion and permit to detect hemodynamic fluctuation or impairment.
Group-Specific Component in Neonatal Breast Secretion: Relationship to the Cellular Content
Authors: Pittard, III William B. , Geddes Kitty M. , Katikaneni Lakshmi P. , Sillivant Richard E. , Galbraith Robert M.
Published: September 2009

Group-specific component (Gc) and total albumin concentrations in the breast secretions from 20 full-term infants were measured. The Gc concentrations as well as the albumin concentrations correlated significantly (p < 0.02) with the total cell count and the absolute concentration of each white blood cell type in the breast fluid. The ratio of albumin in neonatal breast secretion to that in neonatal serum was similar to the comparable ratio for Gc. Since albumin and Gc are of similar molecular size, these observations suggest leakage of these two proteins from serum to breast secretion and a possible chemotactic relationship between these proteins and the mononuclear cells in neonatal milk.
Total Body Water Measurement in Normal and Diabetic Pregnancy: Evidence for Maternal and Amniotic Fluid Equilibrium
Authors: Denne Scott C. , Patel Deepak , Kalhan Satish C.
Published: September 2009

The H2[18O] tracer dilution method was applied to quantify total body water in 6 normal nonpregnant women, 8 normal pregnant women (gestation 29.3 ± 6.0 weeks, range 21–37 weeks), and 8 insulin-dependent diabetic pregnant subjects (gestation 29.4 ± 6.1 weeks, range 20–37 weeks). Plateau or equilibrium enrichment of 18O in the breath CO2 was achieved at approximately 2h in nonpregnant normal subjects. In contrast, in pregnant subjects equilibrium plateau was reached later, at approximately 3 h. In order to examine whether the amniotic fluid/fetal compartment had also reached equilibrium with the maternal water compartment, amniotic fluid samples were obtained from 5 women undergoing elective cesarean section, approximately 5 h after the administration of tracer H2[18O]. The 18O enrichment of amniotic fluid was similar to that of the mother. Total body water was similar in normal and diabetic pregnant subjects (40.4 ± 4.4 vs. 40.1 ± 5.8 kg) and represented 55.8 ± 5.4 and 58.7 ± 5.5% of body weight, respectively. These data demonstrate the usefulness of the H2[18O] tracer method to measure total body water in pregnancy and emphasize the importance of an adequate equilibrium period 4–5 h in order to measure the dilution of administered tracer. The measurements by H2[18O] tracer are similar to those previously reported with deuterium oxide. Insofar as total body water reflects lean body mass, the data suggest that body compositional changes in normal and diabetic pregnancy are qualitatively similar.
Epidermal Growth Factor Administered in Pregnancy Has Little Effect on Placental, Fetal and Postnatal Growth and Development in Rats
Authors: Ali P. , D’Souza S.W. , Smart J.L.
Published: September 2009

Biosynthetic human epidermal growth factor (EGF) was injected daily into female rats (40 μg/rat/day) on days 14–20 of pregnancy in two experiments. Number in litter was significantly greater in EGF- than in vehicle-treated mothers in experiment 1 but not experiment 2. Number in litter affected fetal weight. When this factor was taken into account statistically, there was no significant effect of EGF treatment on fetal weight or placental weight, DNA and protein concentrations at 21 days of gestation; nor was birth weight affected by treatment. However, growth in body weight postnatally from 4 to 115 days was slightly but significantly depressed in the offspring of the EGF-treated mothers. A negative effect of additional EGF in pregnancy on subsequent milk production is postulated. The timing of attainment of developmental milestones in the offspring was not affected.
Effect of Fibrinogen Degradation Products and Lung Ground Substance on Surfactant Function
Authors: O’Brodovich Hugh M. , Weitz Jeffrey I. , Possmayer Fred
Published: September 2009

Acute lung injury syndromes have many characteristics including protein-rich alveolar edema, hyaline membranes, and abnormal surface tension at the alveolar air-liquid interface. Increased surface tension can occur because of a relative surfactant deficiency and/or dysfunction. It has been previously demonstrated that surfactant dysfunction occurs when plasma protein inhibitors leak into the alveolar space during the induction of the lung injury and edema formation. The present study investigated whether inhibitors that would be generated during the stage of repair from lung injury could impair surfactant function. We determined whether fibrinogen degradation products (FDP) which would be released during lysis of the fibrin(ogen)-containing alveolar exudate and hyaline membranes, and components of the lungs’ ground substance could inhibit the in vitro function of a lipid extract surfactant preparation. FDP were prepared by incubating human fibrinogen with plasmin or neutrophil elastase for 4 min to 60 h and were characterized by SDS-PAGE. Early (fragment X and Y) and late (fragment D and E) plasmin-derived FDP (MW > 40,000) inhibited surfactant function as assessed by a bubble surfactometer. The early elastase-derived FDP also inhibited surfactant, but the later and much smaller fragments (MW < 15,000) did not affect surfactant function. Laminin also inhibited surfactant in a dose-dependent manner. Neither hyaluronic acid nor heparan sulfate affected surfactant performance in vitro. We conclude that plasmin-induced lysis of intraalveolar fibrinogen and hyaline membranes will result in prolonged generation (i.e. days) of surfactant inhibitors. The inhibition of surfactant by these proteins varies with the molecular weight and it is the protein component rather than the carbohydrate component of the ground substance that is responsible for affecting surfactant performance.
Dose-Related and Other Effects of Maternal Cimetidine Pretreatment during Lactation on Drug Metabolism in Mouse Dams and Pups
Authors: Osuide Gabriel , Wambebe Charles , Ikediobi Christopher O. , Kwanashie Helen O.
Published: September 2009

The effects of maternal cimetidine pretreatment at different dose levels during lactation, on drug metabolism, were investigated in mouse dams and recently weaned pups. Aminopyrine N-demethylase, aniline hydroxylase and pentobarbitone metabolism were inhibited in both dams and pups in a dose-dependent manner (15, 25 and 50 mg/kg/day, i.p.). Pretreatment at a dose level of 50 mg/kg/day resulted in comparable levels of inhibition of drug metabolism in dams and female pups while male pups were less affected. Of the three indices studied, aniline hydroxylase was the least influenced by cimetidine pretreatment. Thus, the effects of maternal cimetidine pretreatment on drug metabolism in the nursing pair varied with the dose, sex and substrate. The possible implications of these results for man are discussed.
Airway Anomalies in Newborn Infants: Detection by Tracheoscopy via Endotracheal Tube
Authors: Deres M. , Kosack K. , Waldschmidt J. , Obladen M.
Published: September 2009

In 6 of 24 infants studied (27th-40th weeks of gestation), acquired and congenital structural anomalies of the airways were detected with an ultrathin flexible fiberscope (Olympus PF18 S, 1.8 mm). Introduction of the fiberscope via a modified four-way T-adapter enabled us to continue artificial ventilation without interrupting oxygen flow or positive pressure ventilation. Tube position, mucus accumulation and partial tube obstruction were determined quickly at the infants’ bedside, when problems in artificial ventilation arose.
Hyperthyrotropinemia in a Neonate with Normal Thyroid Hormone Levels: The Earliest Diagnostic Clue for Pseudohypoparathyroidism
Authors: Yokoro Seitaro , Matsuo Mineko , Ohtsuka Takako , Ohzeki Takehiko
Published: September 2009

A neonatal case of hyperthyrotropinemia is described in association with pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP). This girl was found to have high serum thyrotropin (TSH) on screening, though serum thyroid hormones were within the normal ranges throughout the observation. The patient’s TSH remained above the normal limit until 5 years of age, when she suffered from hypocalcemic tetany and was diagnosed as type-1 PHP on the basis of responsiveness to parathyroid hormone. She also had stigmata of Albright’s hereditary osteodystrophy. The results demonstrate that elevated TSH, although thyroid hormone concentrations are normal and medication is not indicated, may be one of the earliest diagnostic clues for PHP.
Implantation and in vivo Antagonistic Effects of Antibiotic-Susceptible Escherichia Coli Strains Administered to Premature Newborns
Authors: Rastegar Lari A. , Gold F. , Borderon J.C. , Laugier J. , Lafont J.-P.
Published: September 2009

Two antibiotic-susceptible and non-pathogenic Escherichia coli strains were administered to hospitalized premature infants in order to protect them from intestinal colonization by hospital-acquired antibiotic-resistant enteric organisms (EOs). Three groups of 16 premature newborns received respectively strain ECA, strain EMO and both strains simultaneously. A fourth group was used as a control. Resistant EOs became spontaneously established in the digestive tract of a majority of the unadministered children. Both ECA and EMO were able to colonize the digestive tract of a majority of the subjects, and reached high population numbers (> 107/g) in the faeces. Both strains appeared as able to reduce significantly the establishment of antibiotic-resistant EOs. This effect was more prominent with EMO, which also impaired the implantation of ECA when both strains had been administered simultaneously. The use of such innocuous microorganisms could thus constitute an additional means of preventing nosocomial infections of intestinal origin.
Intestinal Absorption of Macromolecules and Epithelial Cell Surface Glycosylation in Suckling Rats Nursed on Mothers Fed Low-Protein Diet-I
Authors: Babbar Harjit S. , Jaswal Virender M.S. , Gupta Reena , Mahmood Akhtar
Published: September 2009

The effect of feeding 8 % protein (low-protein; LP) diet to lactating rats has been studied on the absorption of macromolecules and the glycosylation of enterocytes in suckling animals. The absorption of 125I-labelled bovine serum albumin, γ-globulin and α-lactalbumin was 24–314% more in pups nursed on mothers fed LP diet compared to the pair-fed controls. The observed enhancement in protein absorption was associated with a significant increase in the binding of these proteins to microvillus membranes (MVM). The sialic acid content of brush borders was unaltered but the fucose level was augmented (p < 0.01) in pups nursed on rats fed LP diet. The binding of 125I-labelled wheat germ agglutinin and Ulex europeus agglutinin I to MVM was in agreement to the data on sialic acid and fucose levels of the membranes. The binding of peanut agglutinin to MVM was 30% low in pups from LP-diet-fed animals. The incorporation of (14C) D-mannose into MVM was essentially unaffected but that of (14C) N-acetylglucosamine was reduced in pups reared on mothers given LP diet. These findings suggest that the quality of maternal nutrition affects the absorption of macromolecules and the glycosylation in developing rat intestine.
Surfactant Replacement in Spontaneously Breathing Babies with Hyaline Membrane Disease – a Pilot Study
Authors: Victorin Lars H. , Deverajan L.V. , Curstedt Tore , Robertson Bengt
Published: September 2009

In a neonatal unit which, at that time, had no facilities for artificial ventilation, 14 newborn infants with birth weight ≥ 1,500 g fulfilling the diagnostic criteria for severe hyaline membrane disease (HMD) were treated by tracheal instillation of bovine surfactant (200 mg/kg). Twelve of these babies showed increased transcutaneous PO2/FiO2 ratio within 2 min, the average therapeutic response being sustained for at least 72 h. One of the two babies who did not respond to treatment was later diagnosed as a case of group B streptococcal pneumonia. One baby with favorable initial response died from sepsis at the age of 7 days; the other patients survived without sequelae. We conclude that treatment with exogenous surfactant might be considered as an alternative to ventilator treatment in babies with severe HMD.
Renal Effects of Caffeine in Preterm Infants
Authors: Gillot I. , Gouyon J.B. , Guignard J.P.
Published: September 2009

Renal functions were assessed during two 12-hour periods, before and after the administration of a single oral dose of caffeine (15 mg/kg) in 13 preterm infants. Each infant acted as his own control. Heart rate, mean blood pressure, hematocrit, blood pH, arterial PO2 and PCO2 remained stable throughout the two successive periods. Mean protein serum level slightly increased from period I to period II. Urine flow rate (+63 ± 57%), water output/input ratio (+49 ± 54%) and creatinine clearance (+79 ± 102%) increased significantly after the administration of caffeine.
Simultaneous Estimation of Neonatal Total Body Water by Antipyrine and H218O Dilution
Authors: Brans Yves W. , Kazzi Nadya J. , Andrew Donna S. , Schwartz Connie A. , Carey K.D.
Published: September 2009

Total body water was estimated simultaneously by dilution of antipyrine (antipyrine space; APS) and H218O (18O-space; 18OS) in 5 baboon neonates and 2 two-month-old lambs (total of 14 studies). Calculations of 18OS were made either from a single plasma δ18O measured 4 h after injection of the marker (18OS4) or by extrapolation to time zero of several plasma δ18O obtained at precisely timed interval (18OS₀). Mean ( ± SD) 18OS4 was on the average 23% lower than mean 18OS₀ (796 ± 70 ml/kg vs. 650 ± 67 ml/kg, p < 0.001). Mean APS was not statistically different from mean 18OS₀ (664 ± 127 ml/kg vs. 658 ± 57 ml/kg), but APS ranged from 41 % lower to 30% higher than 18OS₀ These data and information from the literature suggest that antipyrine is of doubtful reliability and should be abandoned as a marker for total body water.
Impaired Random Migration and Special Reactivity to Methylprednisolone in Young Guinea Pig Macrophages
Authors: Prokić Ljubica M. , Vilić Ivanka M.
Published: September 2009

Macrophage (Mφ) migration ability and its susceptibility to methylprednisolone (MP) action, both in vivo and in vitro, were compared in young and adult guinea pigs. The random migration of oil-induced peritoneal Mφ was tested by the capillary tube method. The obersvation of Mφ locomotion from 4 to 44 h of incubation showed that cells obtained from young animals had a smaller migration ability than those of adults. Besides that, differences in reactivity to MP were observed between the compared groups. The application of MP in vivo led to the stimulation of young Mφ migration in vitro, but inhibited adult Mφ migration. The exposure of adult Mφ to MP in vitro did not affect their motility, but migration of the young Mφ, as previously, was stimulated. Thus, the presented findings report about the immaturity of young Mφ random migration and its special reactivity to MP.
Effects of the Antiglucocorticoid RU 486 on the Initiation of Ultrastructural Type-II Cell Differentiation in Fetal Rat Lung
Authors: Guettari Nadia , Dufour Marie-Elizabeth , Marin Léa
Published: September 2009

The possible early role of endogenous glucocorticosteroids on the further ultrastructural development of the fetal rat lung epithelium was investigated in vitro using a potent antiglucocorticoid drug, RU 486. Lung primordia were explanted on day 13 of gestation and cultured for 4–6 days in the presence of fetal calf serum, with or without RU 486 in excess. The results obtained show that osmiophilic lamellar bodies specific for morphologically differentiated type-II cells did appear in a number of epithelial cells, even though the glucocorticosteroids possibly present in the culture medium, or transferred at explantation were antagonized by RU 486. The number of lamellar bodies stored in these pneumocytes was not different from that in controls. In contrast, their total surface area per cell profile was transiently decreased. Taken together the reported data strongly suggest that endogenous glucocorticosteroids are not necessary for the initiation of type-II cell differentiation.
Insulin Receptors in Developing Rat Liver
Authors: Margolis Ronald N. , Tanner Keith , Seminara Daniela , Taylor Simeon I.
Published: September 2009

The development of insulin receptors and insulin-stimulated receptor autophosphorylation were studied in livers of prenatal and neonatal rats. Insulin receptors were present in mid-gestation, as early as day 14 in fetal development (full term is 22 days in the rat), with ligand-activated receptor kinase present. In contrast, insulin-stimulated phosphorylation of a Mr 120 kd glycoprotein derived from rat liver membranes, known as ppl20/HA4 and more recently identified as ecto-ATPase, was not observed in fetal liver until day 17 of gestation. Thereafter, phosphorylation of pp120/HA4 increased throughout late gestation. The data suggest that maturation of the insulin receptor kinase occurs soon after initial appearance of the receptor in mid-gestation, but insulin-stimulated phosphorylation of endogenous substrate(s) is dependent on the appearance of specific substrates, such as pp120/HA4.
Randomized Study of Vancomycin Pharyngeal Instillation as a Prophylaxis of Bronchopulmonary Infection in Intubated Neonates
Authors: Marchand S. , Poisson D. , Borderon J.C. , Gold F. , Chantepie A. , Saliba E. , Laugier J.
Published: September 2009

In a randomized prospective trial, we investigated whether vancomycin (chosen for local microbiological reasons) given by instillation into the oropharynx of intubated neonates could reduce the frequency of pharyngeal and tracheal colonization, and then broncho pulmonary infection. Two groups of 20 neonates intubated for an expected ventilation period of more than 7 days were included in the study. There was no statistical difference between the two groups for weight, gestational age and duration of treatment. One group (V+) received 4 drops of a 5% solution of vancomycin every 8 h. The control group (V––) had no local treatment. Oropharyngeal and tracheal aspirates were collected twice weekly for bacterial examination. During ventilation, colonization occurred in the oropharynx of 5 V+ (on day 18 ± 10) and 18 V–– (on day 5 ± 2.5; p < 0.001); the colonization occurred in trachea of 5 V+ (on day 19 ± 11) and 17 V–– (on day 6 ± 3.6; p < 0.001). The same bacteria were identified on both sides in all infants colonized. This treatment produced no adverse effects and seemed particularly valid for very low birth weight infants.
Occurrence of Bifidobacterium in the Feces of Newborns Delivered by Cesarean Section
Authors: Bezirtzoglou Eugenia , Romond Charles
Published: September 2009

In cesarean section newborns, colonization by Bifidobacterium occurs generally within 4 days of life. Breast-fed infants, independent of the delivery procedure, harbor a gastrointestinal flora characterized by a predominance of Bifidobacterium. Bottle-fed newborns delivered by cesarean section present a predominance of Bifidobacteriumbifidum and Bifidobacterium infantis in their stools. Investigation of variation in the incidence of Bifidobacterium among cesarean section newborns shows a larger variety of bifidobacterial species in an urban hospital. The prevalence of Bifidobacterium is lower in a newly constructed suburban hospital. Alimentation and environment hence seem to constitute important factors in the control of bifidobacterial flora.
Polymorphonuclear Leucocyte and Natural Killer Cell Functions in Mature and Premature Newborns
Authors: Rabatić Sabina , Benić Ljubica , Mažuran Renata , Dekaris Dragan
Published: September 2009

In this study the phagocytic and natural killer cell (NK) functions in 17 premature and 30 mature newborns are compared. The ability of polymorphonuclear phagocytes (PMNs) to ingest, digest and lyse (antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity, ADCC) opsonized sheep red blood cells and NK activity were tested. Examinations were performed in cord and venous blood within 6 h or 3–4 days after delivery. Results of examinations were compared with normal values for the group of healthy 4- to 15-year-old children. To assess the influence of the newborn’s maturity and age on the tested PMNs and NK functions, the following comparisons were made. (1) Cord vs. peripheral venous blood: only ADCC was higher in peripheral than in cord blood. (2) Mature newborn cells obtained either 6 h or 3–4 days after delivery: ingestion and ADCC were lower and NK activity was higher 3–4 days after delivery. (3) Premature vs. mature newborn cells tested 3–4 days after delivery: ingestion and ADCC were higher while NK activity was lower in premature newborns. (4) Premature newborns tested at 3–4 days vs. mature newborns tested within 6 h after birth: ingestion was lower in the prematures while digestion, ADCC and NK activity were similar. (5) Cells from all newborns tested vs. those of healthy older children: results depend on the interval after birth when newborns were tested. Thus, within the first 6 h after delivery, mature newborns had higher ingestion and ADCC capacity but lower digestion and NK activity. Later, 3–4 days after birth, ingestion, ADCC and NK activity were lower in mature newborns. In the prematures at that interval NK activity was lower. (6) There was a positive correlation between gestational age and NK activity of newborns.
Development of Bile Secretory Function in the Neonatal Guinea Pig
Authors: Tuchweber B. , Ducruet N. , Perea A. , Yousef I.M. , Weber A.M.
Published: September 2009

Maturation of hepatic bile formation and lipid secretion were examined in neonatal guinea pigs in an attempt to explain the earlier observation that the neonate (15 days old) is less susceptible to lithocholate-induced cholestasis than the adult. Bile flow and bile acid secretion were lowest at 12 h postpartum and increased to attain a maximum at 15 days. Thereafter, values decreased to a level which was not significantly different from that at 3 days of age. Bile acid analysis indicated the presence of chenodeoxycholic acid, 7-ketolithocholic acid and ursodeoxycholic acid in bile at all ages. But, at 15 days ursodeoxycholic acid was a major contributor to total bile acid secretion. Phospholipid and cholesterol secretion increased between the 1st and the 3rd day of age but decreased markedly at 15 days. This indicated an uncoupling of biliary lipid secretion and endogenous bile acids which was related in part to the nature of the bile acids secreted. Serum bile acid levels were markedly increased at 15 days of age. This hypercholanemia may reflect a rapid expansion of the bile acid pool including an enhanced bile acid secretion which could explain in part the resistance to the lithocholate cholestasis by increasing the secretory capacity for the toxic bile acid.
Nuclear 3,5,3′-Triiodothyronine Receptors in Skeletal Muscle of Normal and Small-for-Gestational Age Newborn Piglets
Authors: Dauncey M.J. , Geers R.
Published: September 2009

The number of nuclear T3 receptors in the longissimus dorsi muscle has been determined in normal and runt (intrauterine growth-retarded) newborn piglets. Values of maximal binding capacity (Bmax), as calculated by Scatchard analysis, were 48.2 ± 4.3 and 39.7 ± 4.7 mol × 10––14·mg DNA––1 (mean values ± SEM) for controls and runts respectively (p < 0.01; n = 13 pairs of littermates). The lower Bmax in the runts may help to explain their reduced metabolic rate and lower respiratory enzyme activities in skeletal muscle, compared with controls of normal birth weight.
Levels of Insulin-Like Growth Factor I in Full- and Preterm Human Milk in Comparison to Levels in Cow’s Milk and in Milk Formulas
Authors: Nagashima Kanji , Itoh Ken , Kuroume Takayosi
Published: September 2009

The content of insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) in human milk, cow’s milk and cow’s-milk-based infnat formulas was determined by radioimmunoassay. The mean levels of IGF-I in full-term milk and preterm milk 0–4 days post partum 2.2 ± 0.3 and 2.4 ± 0.5 ng/mg protein, respectively. The IGF-I content in human milk was not affected by gestational age or birth weight and was constantly excreted up to 10 days post partum. The IGF-I content in human milk was significantly higher than that in cow’s milk (0.6 ± 0.1 ng/ mg protein, p < 0.01). IGF-I was not detected in the milk formulas. The IGF-I in human milk might be absorbed or could act locally in the intestine and may be of importance in the nutrition of neonates.
Human Neonatal Hypocalcemia
Authors: Salle B.L. , Delvin E. , Glorieux F. , David L.
Published: September 2009

Hypocalcemia is commonly observed in the neonatal period and is usually transient from a few days to a few weeks. On only rare occasions is neonatal hypocalcemia permanent and secondary to congenital hypoparathyroidism caused by either isolated absence of parathyroid glands or in association with other malformations. Most cases of neonatal hypocalcemia fall into one of two clinical categories. Namely early neonatal hypocalcemia occurs in 24–48 h of life and it is usually observed in premature infants or infants of diabetic mothers. Late neonatal hypocalcemia is observed at the end of the first week of life. In addition of these two major categories, neonatal hypocalcemia may occur in association with hypomagnesemia.
Clinical Approach to Inherited Metabolic Disorders in Neonates
Authors: Saudubray J.M. , Narcy C. , Lyonnet L. , Bonnefont J.P. , Poll The B.T. , Munnich A.
Published: September 2009

Most inborn errors of intermediary metabolism presenting in the neonatal period fall schematically into three clinical categories: (1) those which lead to a neurological distress ‘intoxication type’ with a symptom-free interval, vomiting, comas, hypertonia, abnormal movements and frequent humoral disturbances (organic acidaemias, congenital urea cycle defects); (2) those which lead to a neurological distress ‘energy deficiency’ type. Frequent symptoms in this group include hyperlactacidaemia, severe hypotonia, cardiomyopathy, failure to thrive and malformations (congenital lactic acidaemias, fatty acid oxidation defects, peroxysomal disorders); (3) those which present evidence of liver dysfunction and hepatomegaly (glycogenesis, neoglucogenesis defects, galactosaemia, fructosaemia, tyrosinaemia type I). According to these three major clinical presentations and according to the proper use of few screening tests (blood gases, glucose, ammonia, lactic acid, electrolytes, acetest), we propose a method of diagnosis which groups these children into five schematical syndromes: type I MSUD; type II organic acidaemias; type III; congenital lactic acidosis; type IVa, urea cycle defects; type IVb, non-ketotic hyperglycinaemia, sulfite oxidase deficiency, peroxisomal disorders; type V liver dysfunctions. Once the above classification has been made, sophisticated and specific investigations can be planned (amino acid chromatography, organic acid chromatography, enzymatic studies, etc).