bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Pulse Oximetry Surveillance on Rescue Events and Intensive Care Unit Transfers
Authors: Taenzer Andreas H. , Pyke Joshua B. , McGrath Susan P. , Blike George T.
Published: January 2010

Background

Some preventable deaths in hospitalized patients are due to unrecognized deterioration. There are no publications of studies that have instituted routine patient monitoring postoperatively and analyzed impact on patient outcomes.

Methods

The authors implemented a patient surveillance system based on pulse oximetry with nursing notification of violation of alarm limits via wireless pager. Data were collected for 11 months before and 10 months after implementation of the system. Concurrently, matching outcome data were collected on two other postoperative units. The primary outcomes were rescue events and transfers to the intensive care unit compared before and after monitoring change.

Results

Rescue events decreased from 3.4 (1.89-4.85) to 1.2 (0.53-1.88) per 1,000 patient discharges and intensive care unit transfers from 5.6 (3.7-7.4) to 2.9 (1.4-4.3) per 1,000 patient days, whereas the comparison units had no change.

Conclusions

Patient surveillance monitoring results in a reduced need for rescues and intensive care unit transfers.
Meconium Ileus in Patients With Cystic Fibrosis Is Not a Risk Factor for Clinical Deterioration and Survival: The Israeli Multicenter Study
Authors: Efrati Ori , Nir Judith , Fraser Drora , Cohen‐Cymberknoh Malena , Shoseyov David , Vilozni Daphna , Modan‐Moses Dalit , Levy Ran , Szeinberg Amir , Kerem Eitan , Rivlin Joseph
Published: January 2010

Objectives:

Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) presenting with meconium ileus (MI) tend to have worse outcomes than those without MI. We evaluated the clinical characteristics and survival rates among Israeli patients with CF with and without MI after a prolonged follow‐up (15–30 years).

Patients and Methods:

A multicenter retrospective study. Forty‐nine patients with CF, representing 13.8% of all patients with CF in Israel, presented with MI (current age 17.4 ± 7.9 years) between 1975 and 2006. They were compared with 38 patients with CF (current age 19.3 ± 6.5 years) without MI matched by sex and CF transmembrane conductance regulator mutation.

Results:

A total of 66.2% of patients with MI and 73.6% without MI were followed for a prolonged period (24.9 ± 2.7 years). Of the patients with MI, 31 were managed operatively, whereas 18 were treated successfully with gastrograffin enema, with similar clinical outcomes. Five patients in the MI group and 3 in the control group died during the study period. Bacterial colonization, z score of body mass index, and pulmonary function tests were similar in patients with and without MI in the long term. In younger patients, many clinical parameters were more prevalent in patients with MI (P = 0.004). However, these differences disappeared after the long‐term follow‐up (up to 31‐years).

Conclusions:

Patients with CF presenting with MI had similar pulmonary function and nutritional status, as well as survival rates as did the control patients without MI. The distinct genetic mutation found in our population may explain in part the favorable results compared with other studies. In addition, it seems that early diagnosis and treatment of MI in patients with CF may be beneficial, subsequently lowering morbidity, and increasing survival.
Comparison of Esophageal pH and Multichannel Intraluminal Impedance Testing in Pediatric Patients With Suspected Gastroesophageal Reflux
Authors: Francavilla Ruggiero , Magistà Anna Maria , Bucci Nunzia , Villirillo Antonietta , Boscarelli Giuseppe , Mappa Luigi , Leone Gilda , Fico Stefania , Castellaneta Stefania , Indrio Flavia , Lionetti Elena , Moramarco Fulvio , Cavallo Luciano
Published: January 2010

Background:

Multichannel intraluminal impedance (MII) is a pH‐independent method of assessing gastroesophageal reflux.

Aim:

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of MII‐pH as compared with conventional pH monitoring in detecting reflux events (REs) and symptom association in different age groups.

Methods:

A prospective direct comparison of 2 diagnostic techniques on 291 consecutive patients referred for suspected gastroesophageal reflux disease. Sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy of MII‐pH versus pH monitoring and symptom association were measured.

Results:

MII‐pH detected 13631 REs, 6260 (46%) of which were nonacid. The prevalence of weakly acid refluxes in the 24 hours and postprandial period as well as the proximal extension of refluxate were significantly greater in infants as compared with children (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P < 0.01, respectively). The diagnostic accuracy of combined MII‐pH in revealing all RE and acid RE were significantly higher in infants as compared with children (92% vs 82%, P < 0.01 and 83% vs 76%, P < 0.04, respectively). The addition of MII to conventional pH monitoring significantly increases the diagnostic yield of symptom association analysis in revealing an association between atypical symptoms and refluxes irrespective of age, whereas in studying typical symptoms it was true only for infants.

Conclusions:

Addition of MII to conventional pH monitoring significantly increases the diagnostic yield in detecting REs, prevalently in infants, and in revealing an association between refluxes and symptoms, prevalently respiratory ones and in infants group.
Prediction of Clinical and Mucosal Severity of Coeliac Disease and Dermatitis Herpetiformis by Quantification of IgA/IgG Serum Antibodies to Tissue Transglutaminase
Authors: Dahlbom Ingrid , Korponay‐Szabó Ilma R , Kovács Judit B , Szalai Zsuzsanna , Mäki Markku , Hansson Tony
Published: January 2010

Objectives:

We analysed whether the quantification of autoantibodies against tissue transglutaminase could be used to predict mucosal destruction and disease severity in patients with gluten sensitivity.

Patients and Methods:

One hundred seventy patients with coeliac disease (CD), comprising 52 children with severe malabsorption (group I), 59 children with mild symptoms (group II), 59 adults (group III), 134 patients with dermatitis herpetiformis (DH), and 131 disease controls, were studied. Serial serum samples of patients in groups I and II on a gluten‐free diet were also included. Serum levels of antibodies against recombinant tissue transglutaminase were determined with ELISA using standard curves for quantification of antibodies.

Results:

Immunoglobulin (Ig)A antibodies against tissue transglutaminase (IgA‐TGA) were detected in all of the patients with CD and in 95% of the DH patients. The IgA‐TGA and IgG‐TGA levels were higher in group I (P < 0.001). The IgG‐TGA levels and positivity rate in group I (100%) were higher than in group II (81%), group III (73%), and the DH group (67%). Elevated IgA‐TGA and IgG‐TGA levels in combination predicted a more severe small intestinal atrophy (P < 0.0001) with a specificity of 99% for Marsh IIIb–IIIc (flat) lesions. The kinetics of the IgA‐TGA decrease during diet differed between groups I and II.

Conclusions:

High levels of IgA‐TGA and IgG‐TGA antibodies were associated with the grade of mucosal villous atrophy and a more severe clinical presentation. The combined measurement of IgA‐TGA and IgG‐TGA enables a noninvasive prediction of small intestinal villous atrophy with high accuracy, and may reduce the need for a biopsy in patients with suspected CD.
Optimal Growth and Lower Fat Mass in Preterm Infants Fed a Protein‐enriched Postdischarge Formula
Authors: Amesz Eline M , Schaafsma Anne , Cranendonk Anneke , Lafeber Harrie N
Published: January 2010

Background and Objectives:

Postdischarge formulas with extra energy and protein improve short‐term growth but may also influence long‐term body composition in an unwanted manner. Energy‐ and protein‐enriched formulas with an increased protein‐to‐energy ratio improves gain of lean mass. The objective of the study was to investigate whether feeding a nutrient‐enriched formula without extra energy after term, usually 3 to 4 weeks after discharge, would influence growth and body composition in infancy.

Methods:

In this randomized controlled trial preterm infants were fed fortified human milk or preterm formula until term. At term, 102 infants were randomized to a nutrient‐enriched formula without extra energy or standard formula until 6 months corrected age. Twenty‐six infants received unfortified human milk after term. At term and 6 months corrected age, anthropometry and a dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan were performed. Lean and fat mass (FM) were corrected for height.

Results:

There were no differences in growth or body size between the feeding groups. Infants fed the enriched formula gained less FM and had lower FM corrected for body size at 6 months corrected age than infants fed standard formula. Infants fed human milk had lower lean mass and higher FM corrected for body size at 6 months corrected age than formula‐fed infants.

Conclusions:

Feeding nutrient‐enriched formula without extra energy after term does not change quantity of growth but does influence type of weight gain and body composition of preterm infants. Infants fed the nutrient‐enriched formula had lower FM corrected for body size at 6 months corrected age than infants fed standard formula or human milk.
Whole‐blood–free Choline and Choline Metabolites in Infants Who Require Chronic Parenteral Nutrition Therapy
Authors: Sentongo Timothy A , Kumar Praveen , Karza Kristen , Keys Lisa , Iyer Kishore , Buchman Alan L
Published: January 2010

Background and Aim:

Choline deficiency is associated with hepatic dysfunction. Parenteral nutrition (PN) and lipid emulsions contain phosphatidylcholine (PtdCho) but insignificant free choline (FCho). PtdCho is sequentially degraded to glycerolphosphocholine (GPCho), phosphocholine (PCho), and finally to FCho. Biosynthesis of FCho may be insufficient during PN therapy. The aim of the study was to examine the status of FCho and related metabolites in infants on prolonged (≥4 weeks) PN.

Methods:

Whole blood concentrations of FCho, PtdCho, GPCho, and PCho were measured and compared in infants on PN and infants on enteral feeds (controls).

Results:

Infants on PN (n = 14) had higher birth weight but same postnatal age as controls (n = 14) (mean ± standard deviation) 8.3 ± 3.9 versus 7.4 ± 3.6 weeks. Parenteral nutrition was associated with increased PtdCho 1761 ± 452 versus 1471 ± 221 nmol/mL,P= 0.04. Mean whole blood FCho, GPCho, and PCho concentrations did not differ significantly in PN versus controls: 40.0 ± 15.4 versus 50.8 ± 49.7, 16.4 ± 14.5 versus 25.2 ± 29.3, and 15.3 ± 13.5 versus 22.0 ± 14.8 nmol/mL, respectively. However, PCho was positively correlated with GPCho in controls (r= 0.91,P< 0.01) but not PN (r= 0.24,P= NS), and infants receiving >90% of daily energy intake from PN (n = 6) had decreased PCho, 5.7 ± 4.1 nmol/mL, compared with those receiving <90% of daily energy intake (n = 8) 22.5 ± 13.7 nmol/mL,P< 0.05, and controls, 22.0 ± 14.8 nmol/mL,P< 0.01.

Conclusions:

Decreased whole‐blood concentrations of choline suggest possible evidence of choline deficiency as illustrated by decreased whole‐blood PCho. Choline supplementation should be investigated in infants who require prolonged PN, and whole‐blood PCho can be used to monitor response.
Characteristics of Gastroesophageal Reflux and Potential Risk of Gastric Content Aspiration in Children With Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Blondeau K , Pauwels A , Dupont LJ , Mertens V , Proesmans M , Orel R , Brecelj J , López‐Alonso M , Moya MJ , Malfroot A , De Wachter E , Vandenplas Y , Hauser B , Sifrim D
Published: January 2010

Objectives:

Increased gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is common in children with cystic fibrosis (CF). We studied the occurrence of acid, weakly acidic (WA), and weakly alkaline (WALK) reflux in children with CF and evaluated a possible surrogate marker for risk of gastric content aspiration.

Patients and Methods:

Twenty‐four children with CF underwent impedance‐pH monitoring for detection of acid (pH < 4), WA (pH 4‐7), and WALK‐GER (pH ≥ 7). In 11 children, cough was objectively recorded with esophageal manometry and the symptom association probability was calculated to determine the reflux‐cough relation. Presence of bile acids (BA) was measured in the saliva of 65 patients with CF and 23 healthy children, respectively.

Results:

Sixteen of the 24 children had increased GER (esophageal acid exposure). The majority of reflux events were acidic in nature. WA reflux was less common and WALK reflux was rare. The sequence reflux‐cough was found in 8 of the 11 children and 1 of 11 children had a positive symptom association probability for reflux‐cough. The sequence cough‐reflux was found in only 3 of the 11 children. Only a small fraction of the total esophageal acid and volume exposure was secondary to cough. Twenty‐three of the 65 children with CF had BA in saliva compared with none of the healthy controls.

Conclusions:

Although WA‐GER is uncommon, acid GER is prevalent in children with CF. It is a primary phenomenon and is not secondary to cough. One third of the children with CF have BA in saliva, which may indicate an increased risk for aspiration. However, the impact of salivary BA and potential aspiration on CF pulmonary disease needs further investigation.
Ascitic Form of Sporadic Acute Viral Hepatitis in Children: A Distinct Entity for Recognition
Authors: Yachha Surender K , Goel Amit , Khanna Vikrant , Poddar Ujjal , Srivastava Anshu , Singh Uttam
Published: January 2010

Background and Objectives:

This study looked at the frequency and differences in presentation, laboratory parameters, and outcome between ascitic acute viral hepatitis (AAVH) and nonascitic acute viral hepatitis (NAVH) in children.

Methods:

Diagnosis of AVH was based on clinical features, >3‐fold elevation of alanine aminotransferase, viral marker positivity (IgM antihepatitis A virus, IgM antihepatitis E virus, hepatitis B surface antigen, and IgM antihepatitis B core antigen) at presentation, absence of history of liver disease, and subsequent normalization within 6 months of clinical features and liver functions including sustained resolution of ascites in AAVH on follow‐up.

Results:

A total of 139 children (121 children with NAVH and 18 with AAVH, 12.9%) were studied. Children with AAVH in comparison with those with NAVH were younger (median age 4 vs 8 years), had lower frequency of prodrome (22% vs 51%), lower serum albumin (median 2.8 vs 3.7 g/dL), low total serum protein (median 6.5 vs 7.4 g/dL), and prolongation of prothrombin time (median 4.8 vs 1.05 seconds); all P < 0.03. No significant differences were found in sex, height standard deviation scores, duration of symptoms, liver span or consistency, transaminases, alkaline phosphatase, and etiology of NAVH versus AAVH. Among the AAVH group clinically detectable ascites was present in 38.9% (7/18), spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in 11%, and diuretics had to be used in 44% of cases. Ascites resolved in all of the cases in 8 weeks (94.4% cases in <4 weeks) and liver functions normalized in 17%, 50%, and 33% cases in <4, 4 to 8, and >8 weeks duration, respectively.

Conclusions:

We report AAVH as a distinct entity that affects younger children. This subgroup has compromised biosynthetic liver functions irrespective of viral etiology with total recovery.
Aluminum Content of Parenteral Nutrition in Neonates: Measured Versus Calculated Levels
Authors: Poole Robert L , Schiff Linda , Hintz Susan R , Wong Allison , Mackenzie Nicol , Kerner John A
Published: January 2010

Background and Objective:

Aluminum (Al) is associated with significant central nervous system toxicity and bone and liver damage. Because Al is a contaminant of parenteral nutrition (PN) components including calcium and phosphate additives, premature infants are at potentially high risk for toxicity. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has mandated PN component product labeling and recommended maximum Al daily exposure limits. The objective of this article is to determine the actual Al content of neonatal PN solutions, compare these values to the calculated amounts from manufacturers' PN product labels, and ascertain whether the actual Al exposure exceeds the FDA recommended maximum of 5 μg · kg−1 · day−1.

Materials and Methods:

Samples from 40 neonatal patient PN solutions were selected for sampling and Al content determination. Samples were also taken from 16 manufacturer's component products used in PN formulation. All of the samples were sent to Mayo Laboratories for Al content measurement. The calculated Al concentrations in PN samples were determined from the manufacturer's labeled content.

Results:

Both measured and calculated Al concentrations exceeded the FDA recommended safe limit of <5 μg · kg−1 · day−1. The actual measured Al content was significantly lower than the calculated Al content in both the patient PN solutions and the component product samples.

Conclusions:

Al exposure exceeded the FDA recommended maximum limit for all patient samples; however, the actual measured Al content of all the samples was significantly less than the calculated Al content based on manufacturer's labels. These findings suggest that manufacturers label their products with actual Al content at the time of product release rather than at time of expiration. Periodic monitoring of Al levels should be considered with prolonged PN therapy. Changes in manufacturing processes, including the use of better raw materials, are essential to reduce Al contamination to meet FDA mandates.
Increased Expression of Serum‐ and Glucocorticoid‐regulated Kinase‐1 in the Duodenal Mucosa of Children With Coeliac Disease
Authors: Szebeni Beáta , Vannay Ádám , Sziksz Erna , Prókai Ágnes , Cseh Áron , Veres Gábor , Dezsőfi Antal , Győrffy Hajnalka , Szabó IR Korponay , Arató András
Published: January 2010

Objectives:

Enterocyte apoptosis induced by activated intraepithelial lymphocytes is increased in coeliac disease (CD). Serum‐ and glucocorticoid‐regulated kinase‐1 (SGK1) is a serine/threonine protein kinase that may inhibit apoptosis and compensate for the excessive death of surface epithelial cells. The significance of SGK1 in CD is elusive so far. The aim of this study was to characterise the expression and localisation of SGK1 in duodenal biopsy samples taken from children with untreated CD, children with treated CD, and controls.

Patients and Methods:

Duodenal biopsy specimens were collected from 16 children with untreated CD, 9 children with treated CD, and 10 controls. The mRNA expression of SGK1 was determined by real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. SGK1 and phosphorylated (P)‐SGK1 protein levels and their localisation were determined by Western blot and immunfluorescent staining, respectively.

Results:

We found increased SGK1‐mRNA expression as well as higher SGK1 and P‐SGK1 protein levels in the duodenal mucosa of children with untreated CD compared with controls. In the duodenal mucosa of children with treated CD, SGK1‐mRNA expression was decreased and SGK1 and P‐SGK1 protein levels were lower than in untreated CD. SGK1 and P‐SGK1 staining intensity was stronger in duodenal villous enterocytes of children with untreated CD compared with treated CD.

Conclusions:

Our results of increased expression of SGK1 in untreated CD may suggest its contribution to the enterocyte survival in this disease.
Derivation of a Clinical Prediction Rule for the Noninvasive Diagnosis of Varices in Children
Authors: Gana Juan C , Turner Dan , Roberts Eve A , Ling Simon C
Published: January 2010

Background and Objectives:

Identification of children who are at high risk for having varices using noninvasive tests would enable the selection of children for future studies of primary prophylaxis of variceal hemorrhage, but this has been inadequately studied. The objective of the study was to derive a noninvasive clinical prediction rule that is able to identify children with esophageal varices.

Methods:

Fifty‐one consecutive children with liver disease or portal hypertension who underwent endoscopy were included in the present retrospective study. At endoscopy, variceal size was graded on a 4‐point Likert scale. Results of physical examination, blood tests, and abdominal ultrasound scan (USS) were recorded. Spleen length on USS was expressed as a standard deviation score (z score). A descriptive univariate analysis was performed on variables that were potentially associated with esophageal varices and multivariate logistic regression was then modeled to derive a clinical prediction rule.

Results:

Esophageal varices were found in 17 of the 51 children (33%). Variables found to differ significantly between children with and without varices included platelet/spleen‐length z score ratio (P < 0.001), platelet count (P < 0.001), international normalized ratio (P = 0.001), aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase ratio (P = 0.002), and albumin (P = 0.003). Using multivariate logistic regression, a model with platelet count, spleen length z score, and albumin as the independent variables had the best fit. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for this clinical prediction rule was 0.93 (95% confidence interval 0.85–0.99), sensitivity 94%, specificity 81%, positive predictive value 0.83, negative predictive value 0.94, positive likelihood ratio 5, and negative likelihood ratio 0.06.

Conclusions:

This clinical prediction rule is a simple noninvasive measure that may identify children at high risk for esophageal varices. A prospective validation study is in progress.
In Situ Expression of cagA and Risk of Gastroduodenal Disease in Helicobacter pylori–infected Children
Authors: Rick James R , Goldman Matthew , Semino‐Mora Cristina , Liu Hui , Olsen Cara , Rueda‐Pedraza Eugenia , Sullivan Carolyn , Dubois Andre
Published: January 2010

Background and Aim:

Gastroduodenal disease is more common among adults and children with cagA+ Helicobacter pylori infection, but disease severity varies among those infected with cagA+ strains. We examined whether cagA in situ expression can predict disease manifestations among H pylori–infected children.

Patients and Methods:

Fifty‐one children were selected from 805 patients with abdominal symptoms who underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy with gastric biopsies. Endoscopic and histologic gastritis were scored and H pylori colonization was quantified by Genta stain and in situ hybridization expression of 16S rRNA and cagA.

Results:

Endoscopy was either normal (n = 14) or demonstrated nodularity (n = 18), gastric ulcer (n = 8) or duodenal ulcer (n = 11). H pylori was present in 7, 18, 6, and 10 children, respectively. Expression of 16S rRNA and cagA were significantly higher in children with ulcer compared with normal children. The fraction of H pylori bacteria expressing cagA in situ was higher in children with ulcer compared to those with endoscopic nodularity (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Thus, cagA in situ expression is increased in H pylori–infected children with peptic ulcers and may play a role in the pathogenesis of peptic ulcer disease during childhood. Determination of in situ expression of cagA complements traditional isolation and in vitro testing of single‐colony isolates.
Parenteral Fish Oil as Monotherapy Prevents Essential Fatty Acid Deficiency in Parenteral Nutrition–dependent Patients
Authors: de Meijer Vincent E , Le Hau D , Meisel Jonathan A , Gura Kathleen M , Puder Mark
Published: January 2010

Objective:

The use of fish oil–based emulsions as the sole source of fat for patients receiving parenteral nutrition (PN) has raised concerns for the development of essential fatty acid deficiency (EFAD), hindering its adoption into clinical practice. The purpose of the present study was to examine fatty acid profiles of patients receiving no enteral energy, while completely dependent on PN and an intravenous fish oil–based lipid emulsion, for onset of EFAD and maintenance of growth.

Patients and Methods:

Prospectively collected data from 10 patients were reviewed for evidence of EFAD, defined as a triene:tetraene ratio >0.2. Gestational age–adjusted z scores for length, growth, and head circumference at baseline were compared with the corresponding z scores at time of censoring. All of the patients received PN with a fish oil–based lipid emulsion at 1 g · kg−1 · day−1 as the sole source of fat energy for at least 1 month. The fish oil monotherapy was used under a compassionate use protocol.

Results:

Median gestational age at the time of birth was 35 weeks, and median age at the start of treatment was 3.5 months. After a median time of 3.8 months on exclusive PN and fish oil–based lipid emulsion, none of the patients developed biochemical or clinical evidence of EFAD. z scores were not statistically different, indicating no growth impairment. Median direct bilirubin levels improved in 9 patients from 6.8 to 0.9 mg/dL (P = 0.009).

Conclusions:

When dosed appropriately, fish oil–based lipid emulsions contain sufficient amounts of essential fatty acids to prevent EFAD and sustain growth in patients who are completely dependent on PN.
Characterization of ATP8B1 Gene Mutations and a Hot‐linked Mutation Found in Chinese Children With Progressive Intrahepatic Cholestasis and Low GGT
Authors: Liu Li‐yan , Wang Xiao‐hong , Wang Zhong‐lin , Zhu Qi‐rong , Wang Jian‐She
Published: January 2010

Objectives:

The aim of the study was to elucidate the role and characteristics of ATP8B1 gene mutations in mainland Chinese children with progressive intrahepatic cholestasis and low γ‐glutamyltransferase (GGT).

Patients and Methods:

Twenty‐four children who presented with progressive intrahepatic cholestasis and low GGT were admitted to a tertiary pediatric hospital in eastern China from January 2004 to July 2007. Five children with homozygous or compound heterozygous ABCB11 gene mutations were excluded from the study. All encoding exons and their flanking areas of ATP8B1 gene were sequenced in the remaining 19 patients, in whom only 1 or no mutation of ABCB11 was found. Clinical features and liver histology obtained by reviewing the medical records were compared among patients with different genotypes.

Results:

Nine mutations of ATP8B1 gene were found in 9 patients. All of them were novel except for mutations I694N and R952X. A linked P209T and IVS6+5G>T mutation was found in 4 of 9 patients, including 2 homozygotes and 2 heterozygotes. Giant cell transformation of hepatocytes was demonstrated in 1 of 6 patients with ATP8B1 mutations and 4 of 5 patients with ABCB11 mutations.

Conclusions:

ATP8B1 gene mutations play an important role in Chinese patients with progressive intrahepatic cholestasis and low GGT. The linked mutation P209T and IVS6+5G>T is a hot mutation in the Chinese population. Histological examination may be helpful in differentiating familial intrahepatic cholestasis type 1 from bile salt export pump‐related disease.
Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Children
Authors: Mohan Neelam , González‐Peralta Regino P , Fujisawa Tomoo , Chang Mei‐Hwei , Heller Solange , Jara Paloma , Kelly Deirdre , Mieli‐Vergani Giorgina , Shah Uzma , Murray Karen F
Published: January 2010

The importance of hepatitis C viral infection in the health care of children has grown in recent decades. More is now known about the epidemiology of this infection in children and the progression of disease in the pediatric age group, and the treatment options are increasing. In this review, we update readers on the state of our understanding of hepatitis C infection in children, provide the current recommendations for monitoring and treatment, and discuss emerging therapies.
Gramella marina sp. nov., isolated from the sea urchin Strongylocentrotus intermedius
Authors: Nedashkovskaya Olga I. , Kim Seung Bum , Bae Kyung Sook
Published: January 2010

The taxonomic position of a novel Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, heterotrophic, gliding, yellow–orange-pigmented bacterium, isolated from the sea urchin Strongylocentrotus intermedius and designated strain KMM 6048T, was established. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that the isolate was a member of the family Flavobacteriaceae affiliated with recognized species of the genus Gramella, forming a distinct lineage within the genus. 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities between strain KMM 6048T and the type strains of species of the genus Gramella were 97.4–98.4 %. In line with representative members of the genus Gramella, strain KMM 6048T was oxidase- and catalase-positive, hydrolysed gelatin and starch, utilized carbohydrates and possessed a DNA G+C content of 40.0 mol%. However, differentiating phenotypic traits and phylogenetic distinctiveness clearly indicated that the strain represented a novel species within the genus Gramella, for which the name Gramella marina sp. nov. is proposed; the type strain is KMM 6048T (=KCTC 12366T=LMG 25418T).
Halostagnicola kamekurae sp. nov., an extremely halophilic archaeon from solar salt
Authors: Nagaoka Shuhei , Minegishi Hiroaki , Echigo Akinobu , Usami Ron
Published: January 2010

A novel extremely halophilic archaeon, strain 194-10T, was isolated from a solar salt sample imported into Japan from the Philippines. Strain 194-10T was pleomorphic, neutrophilic and mesophilic and required at least 10 % (w/v) NaCl but no MgSO4 . 7H2O for growth; it exhibited optimal growth at 15 % (w/v) NaCl and 60 mM MgSO4 . 7H2O. Strain 194-10T grew at 20–45 °C (optimum, 30 °C) and pH 6.0–9.0 (optimum, pH 6.5–7.0). The G+C content of its DNA was 59.8 mol%. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed closest proximity to Halostagnicola larsenii XH-48T (98.5 % similarity), the sole representative of the genus Halostagnicola. Polar lipid analysis revealed that strain 194-10T contained phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylglycerol phosphate methyl ester (the latter derived from both C20C20 and C20C25 archaeol) and several unidentified glycolipids. The results of DNA–DNA hybridization (20.7 % relatedness between Hst. larsenii JCM 13463T and strain 194-10T) and physiological and biochemical characteristics allowed differentiation of strain 194-10T from Hst. larsenii XH-48T. Therefore, strain 194-10T represents a novel species of the genus Halostagnicola, for which the name Halostagnicola kamekurae sp. nov. is proposed, with the type strain 194-10T (=DSM 22427T =JCM 16110T =CECT 7536T).
Microbacterium ginsengiterrae sp. nov., a β-glucosidase-producing bacterium isolated from soil of a ginseng field
Authors: Kim Yeon-Ju , Kim Myung Kyum , Bui Thi Phuong Nam , Kim Ho-Bin , Srinivasan Sathiyaraj , Yang Deok-Chun
Published: January 2010

Strain DCY37Twas isolated from a soil sample of a ginseng field in the Republic of Korea and characterized in order to determine its taxonomic position. Cells were Gram-staining-positive, heterotrophic, strictly aerobic, non-motile short rods. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed that strain DCY37Tbelongs to the genusMicrobacterium. According to 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, it is closely related toMicrobacterium aerolatumDSM 14217T(98.8 %),Microbacterium hydrocarbonoxydansDSM 16089T(98.5 %),Microbacterium natorienseJCM 12611T(98.5 %),Microbacterium foliorum(98.4 %) andMicrobacterium phyllosphaerae(98.3 %). However, DNA–DNA hybridization studies showed reassociation values of less than 70 % between representative strains and DCY37T. The DNA G+C content was 64.5 mol%. Strain DCY37Tpossessed chemotaxonomic markers that were consistent with classification in the genusMicrobacterium, i.e. MK-12 and MK-13 as the major menaquinones and anteiso-C15 : 0, anteiso-C17 : 0and iso-C16 : 0as the predominant cellular fatty acids. The major cell wall sugars were ribose, xylose and galactose. The diamino acid in cell-wall hydrolysates of strain DCY37Twas ornithine and major cell-wall amino acids were alanine, glycine,d-glutamic acid and serine. The major polar lipids were glycolipid, phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol and unknown aminolipids. Based on these data, DCY37T(=KCTC 19526T=JCM 15516T) should be classified as the type strain of a novel species of the genusMicrobacterium, for which the nameMicrobacterium ginsengiterraesp. nov. is proposed.
Aeromicrobium halocynthiae sp. nov., a taurocholic acid-producing bacterium isolated from the marine ascidian Halocynthia roretzi
Authors: Kim Sung Hun , Yang Hyun Ok , Sohn Young Chang , Kwon Hak Cheol
Published: January 2010

A marine bacterium, strain KME 001T, was isolated from the siphon tissue of a marine ascidian, Halocynthia roretzi, collected off the coast of Gangneung, Korea. Strain KME 001T was a Gram-positive, aerobic, non-spore-forming, rod-shaped and non-motile bacterium. Phylogenetic analysis using 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain KME 001T clustered with the genus Aeromicrobium and was closely related to Aeromicrobium ginsengisoli, Aeromicrobium erythreum and Aeromicrobium ponti with 97.7, 97.6 and 97.5 % sequence similarities, respectively. The strain was capable of growth at a variety of temperatures (10–42 °C) and over a broad pH range (5.0–10.0). NaCl was required for robust growth of the strain. The diagnostic diamino acid of the cell-wall peptidoglycan was ll-diaminopimelic acid. The predominant menaquinone was MK-9(H4). The predominant fatty acids were C18 : 1
ω9c, C16 : 0 and 10-methyl C18 : 0. The DNA–DNA hybridization analyses showed that DNA–DNA relatedness values between strain KME 001T and its nearest neighbours, A. ginsengisoli KCTC 19207T, A. erythreum KCCM 41104T and A. ponti KACC 20565T, were 49.6, 57.1 and 63.5 %, respectively. The DNA G+C content of strain KME 001T was 75.9 mol%. Chemical investigation of the liquid culture medium of strain KME 001T led to the isolation of taurocholic acid as a major secondary metabolite. On the basis of phylogenetic and phenotypic data, strain KME 001T is classified as representing a novel species of the genus Aeromicrobium, for which the name Aeromicrobium halocynthiae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is KME 001T (=JCM 15749T=KCCM 90079T).
Sulfuricella denitrificans gen. nov., sp. nov., a sulfur-oxidizing autotroph isolated from a freshwater lake
Authors: Kojima Hisaya , Fukui Manabu
Published: January 2010

A novel facultatively anaerobic, sulfur-oxidizing bacterium, strain skB26T, was isolated from anoxic water of a freshwater lake in Japan. The cells were rod-shaped, motile and Gram-negative. Strain skB26T oxidized elemental sulfur and thiosulfate to sulfate as sole energy sources. Strain skB26T was microaerobic and could also utilize nitrate as an electron acceptor, reducing it to nitrogen. Growth was observed at temperatures below 28 °C; optimum growth was observed at 22 °C. The pH range for growth was 6.0–9.0, and the optimum pH was 7.5–8.0. Optimum growth of the isolate was observed in medium without NaCl, and no growth was observed in medium containing more than 220 mM NaCl. The G+C content of genomic DNA was around 59 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence indicated that the strain was a member of the class Betaproteobacteria, and the closest cultivated relative was ‘Thiobacillus plumbophilus’ DSM 6690, with 93 % sequence similarity. Phylogenetic analyses were also performed using sequences of genes involved in sulfur oxidation, inorganic carbon fixation and nitrate respiration. On the basis of its phylogenetic and phenotypic properties, strain skB26T (=NBRC 105220T =DSM 22764T) is proposed as the type strain of a novel species of a new genus, Sulfuricella denitrificans gen. nov., sp. nov.
Tomitella biformata gen. nov., sp. nov., a new member of the suborder Corynebacterineae isolated from a permafrost ice wedge
Authors: Katayama Taiki , Kato Tomoko , Tanaka Michiko , Douglas Thomas A. , Brouchkov Anatoli , Abe Ayumi , Sone Teruo , Fukuda Masami , Asano Kozo
Published: January 2010

Gram-reaction-positive, aerobic, non-spore-forming, irregular rod-shaped bacteria, designated AHU1821T and AHU1820, were isolated from an ice wedge in the Fox permafrost tunnel, Alaska. The strains were psychrophilic, growing at −5 to 27 °C. Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA and gyrB gene sequences indicated that the ice-wedge isolates formed a clade distinct from other mycolic-acid-containing bacteria within the suborder Corynebacterineae. The cell wall of strains AHU1821T and AHU1820 contained meso-diaminopimelic acid, arabinose and galactose, indicating chemotype IV. The muramic acids in the peptidoglycan were glycolated. The predominant menaquinone was MK-9(H2). The polar lipids consisted of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylinositol mannosides and an unidentified glycolipid. The major fatty acids were hexadecenoic acid (C16 : 1), hexadecanoic acid (C16 : 0), octadecenoic acid (C18 : 1) and tetradecanoic acid (C14 : 0). Tuberculostearic acid was present in relatively small amounts (1 %). Strains AHU1821T and AHU1820 contained mycolic acids with 42–52 carbons. The DNA G+C content of the two strains was 69.3–71.6 mol% (T
m). 16S rRNA, rpoB and recA gene sequences were identical between strains AHU1821T and AHU1820 and those of the gyrB gene showed 99.9 % similarity. Based on phylogenetic and phenotypic evidence, strains AHU1821T and AHU1820 represent a single novel species of a novel genus, for which the name Tomitella
biformata gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Tomitella biformata is AHU1821T (=DSM 45403T =NBRC 106253T).
Reinekea aestuarii sp. nov., isolated from tidal flat sediment
Authors: Choi Ahyoung , Cho Jang-Cheon
Published: January 2010

Two Gram-negative, non-motile, non-pigmented and curved rod-shaped bacterial strains, designated IMCC4489T and IMCC4451, were isolated from a tidal flat sediment of the Yellow Sea. Strains IMCC4489T and IMCC4451 shared 99.9 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity and 78.5 % DNA–DNA relatedness, which suggested that they belonged to the same species. The isolates were most closely related to Reinekea blandensis MED297T (98.7–98.8 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity) and Reinekea marinisedimentorum DSM 15388T (95.3–95.4 %). DNA–DNA relatedness between the strains and R. blandensis CCUG 52066T was 31–34 %. Strains IMCC4489T and IMCC4451 could also be differentiated from the type strains of the two recognized Reinekea species by several phenotypic properties. The DNA G+C content was 51.3–51.5 mol% and the major isoprenoid quinone was Q-8. On the basis of the data obtained in this study, it is proposed that strains IMCC4489T and IMCC4451 represent a novel species, Reinekea aestuarii sp. nov. The type strain is IMCC4489T (=KCTC 22813T =KCCM 42938T =NBRC 106079T).
Stakelama pacifica gen. nov., sp. nov., a new member of the family Sphingomonadaceae isolated from the Pacific Ocean
Authors: Chen Chuang , Zheng Qiang , Wang Ya-Nan , Yan Xiao-Jun , Hao Li-Kai , Du Xun , Jiao Nianzhi
Published: January 2010

A Gram reaction-negative, weakly motile, non-spore-forming, rod-shaped, aerobic bacterium designated strain JLT832T was isolated from surface water of the central Pacific Ocean and formed yellow colonies on rich organic (RO) medium. The strain was oxidase-negative and catalase-positive. Acid was produced from mannitol, glucose, sucrose, lactose, sorbitol, maltose, (+)-trehalose and d-fructose. No acid was produced from d-(+)-xylose. The major cellular fatty acids of strain JLT832T were C18 : 1
ω7c, C14 : 0 2-OH and C16 : 0. The major polar lipids were sphingoglycolipid, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine. Ubiquinone-10 and spermidine were present as the major quinone and polyamine, respectively. The genomic DNA G+C content of strain JLT832T was 66.0±0.5 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that the new isolate formed a tight branch within the family Sphingomonadaceae but was clearly separate from established genera in this family. The sequence similarities between the new isolate and type strains of established genera ranged from 90.5 to 94.9 %. Based on these data, strain JLT832T constitutes a novel genus and species, for which the name Stakelama pacifica gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Stakelama pacifica is JLT832T (=CGMCC 1.7294T =LMG 24686T).
Mucilaginibacter frigoritolerans sp. nov., Mucilaginibacter lappiensis sp. nov. and Mucilaginibacter mallensis sp. nov., isolated from soil and lichen samples
Authors: Männistö Minna K. , Tiirola Marja , McConnell Jennifer , Häggblom Max M.
Published: January 2010

Five cold-adapted bacteria belonging to the genus Mucilaginibacter were isolated from lichen and soil samples collected from Finnish Lapland and investigated in detail by phenotypic and phylogenetic analyses. Based on 16S rRNA gene phylogeny, the novel strains represent three new branches within the genus Mucilaginibacter. The strains were aerobic, chemo-organotrophic, non-motile rods and formed pigmented, smooth, mucoid colonies on solid media. The strains grew between 0 and 33 °C (optimum growth at 25 °C) and at pH 4.5–8.0 (optimum growth at pH 6.0). The main cellular fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0, summed feature 3 (C16 : 1
ω7c/iso-C15 : 0 2-OH) and iso-C17 : 0 3-OH and the major respiratory quinone was MK-7. The DNA G+C contents were 44.0–46.5 mol%. Based on phylogenetic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic data, the strains represent three novel species of the genus Mucilaginibacter for which the names Mucilaginibacter frigoritolerans sp. nov. (type strain FT22T =ATCC BAA-1854T =LMG 25359T), Mucilaginibacter lappiensis sp. nov. (type strain ANJLI2T =ATCC BAA-1855T =LMG 25358T) and Mucilaginibacter
mallensis sp. nov. (type strain MP1X4T =ATCC BAA-1856T =LMG 25360T) are proposed.
Pontibacter niistensis sp. nov., isolated from forest soil
Authors: Dastager Syed G. , Raziuddin Q. S. , Deepa C. K. , Li Wen-Jun , Pandey Ashok
Published: January 2010

A Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterial strain, NII-0905T, that was motile by gliding was isolated from soil of a dense forest collected from the Western Ghats of India and its taxonomic position was established. Strain NII-0905T contained MK-7 as the major menaquinone and anteiso-C17 : 0, anteiso-C15 : 0, iso-C16 : 0 and iso-C15 : 0 as the major cellular fatty acids. The DNA G+C content of strain NII-0905T was 51.47 mol%. 16S rRNA gene sequence-based phylogenetic analysis confirmed the placement of strain NII-0905T in the genus Pontibacter and strain NII-0905T exhibited 93.9–96.3 % 16S rRNA sequence similarity with type strains of species of the genus Pontibacter. On the basis of genotypic and phenotypic evidence, strain NII-0905T is considered to represent a novel species of the genus Pontibacter, for which the name Pontibacter niistensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is NII-0905T (=NCIM 5339T =CCTCC AA 209057T).
Bifidobacterium stercoris sp. nov., isolated from human faeces
Authors: Kim Min-Soo , Roh Seong Woon , Bae Jin-Woo
Published: January 2010

Strain Eg1T, an anaerobic, Gram-stain-positive, non-motile and non-spore-forming bacterium, was isolated from human faeces. The optimal temperature for growth was 37 °C and tests for oxidase and catalase activities gave negative results. Fructose-6-phosphate phosphoketolase activity was detected. Acid was produced during fermentation of several substrates, including glucose. The end products of glucose fermentation were acetic acid and lactic acid, which were produced in a molar ratio of 1.76 : 1 (approximately 3 : 2). The G+C content was 57.8 mol%. Comparative analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain Eg1T was closely related to Bifidobacterium adolescentis YIT 4011T (98.36 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity) and Bifidobacterium ruminantium JCM 8222T (97.93 %) and analysis of hsp60 sequences showed that strain Eg1T was closely related to B. adolescentis JCM 1275T (99.35 % hsp60 sequence similarity) and B. ruminantium JCM 8222T (92.13 %). However, despite these degrees of similarity being high enough for strain Eg1T to be included at the same species level as B. adolescentis and B. ruminantium (96.5–100 % for the genus Bifidobacterium), the isolate could be distinguished from B. adolescentis KCTC 3216T and B. ruminantium KCTC 3425T by low levels of DNA–DNA relatedness (41 and 17 %, respectively). Based on phenotypic, genotypic and phylogenetic analyses, we propose that strain Eg1T is classified in a novel species, Bifidobacterium stercoris sp. nov. The type strain is Eg1T (=KCTC 5756T =JCM 15918T).
Flavobacterium haoranii sp. nov., a cypermethrin-degrading bacterium isolated from a wastewater treatment system
Authors: Zhang Jun , Jiang Rui-Bo , Zhang Xiao-Xia , Hang Bao-Jian , He Jian , Li Shun-Peng
Published: January 2010

A Gram-negative, non-spore-forming, yellow-pigmented bacterium, strain LQY-7T, was isolated from activated sludge treating synthetic pyrethroid-manufacturing wastewater. The taxonomic status of the strain was determined using a polyphasic taxonomic approach. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain LQY-7T was a member of the genus Flavobacterium but had low similarities with other species of this genus (95.0 % similarity with Flavobacterium indicum GPTSA100-9T and <94 % similarities with other Flavobacterium species). On the basis of phenotypic, genetic and phylogenetic data, strain LQY-7T should be classified as a representative of a novel species of the genus Flavobacterium, for which the name Flavobacterium haoranii sp. nov. is proposed; the type strain is LQY-7T (=ACCC 05409T =KCTC 23008T).
Hwanghaeicola aestuarii gen. nov., sp. nov., a moderately halophilic bacterium isolated from a tidal flat of the Yellow Sea
Authors: Kim Jeong Myeong , Jung Ji Young , Chae Ho Byoung , Park Woojun , Jeon Che Ok
Published: January 2010

A moderately halophilic Gram-staining-negative bacterium, designated strain Y26T, was isolated from a tidal flat of Taean coast in South Korea. Cells were strictly aerobic, motile cocci with a single flagellum and showed catalase- and oxidase-positive reactions. Growth of strain Y26T was observed at 15–35 °C (optimum 25–30 °C), pH 6.0–8.0 (optimum pH 6.5–7.5) and with 1.5–6.0 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum 2.0–3.0 %). The predominant fatty acids were C18 : 1
ω7c (66.2 %), C16 : 0 (12.4 %) and C10 : 0 3-OH (5.0 %) and the G+C content of the genomic DNA was 61.0 mol%. Strain Y26T contained ubiquinone-10 (Q-10) as the major respiratory quinone. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed that strain Y26T formed a distinct phyletic lineage from other genera within the Roseobacter clade of the class Alphaproteobacteria and was most closely related to members of the genera Maribius, Maritimibacter and Palleronia with 93.8–94.6 % sequence similarity. On the basis of chemotaxonomic data and molecular properties, strain Y26T represents a novel genus, Hwanghaeicola, within the family Rhodobacteraceae, for which the name Hwanghaeicola aestuarii gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is Y26T (=KACC 13705T =DSM 22009T).
Leucobacter aerolatus sp. nov., from the air of a duck barn
Authors: Martin E. , Lodders N. , Jäckel U. , Schumann P. , Kämpfer P.
Published: January 2010

A Gram-positive, non-spore-forming actinobacterium (Sj 10T) was isolated on tryptone soy agar from the air of a duck barn after filter sampling. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity studies, strain Sj 10T was shown to belong to the genus Leucobacter and was closely related to Leucobacter chromiireducens subsp. chromiireducens L-1T (97.8 %), Leucobacter tardus DSM 19811T (97.3 %) and Leucobacter luti RF6T (97.3 %). The peptidoglycan of strain Sj 10T contained 2,4-diaminobutyric acid in combination with a lower amount of lysine as diagnostic diamino acids. In addition, threonine, glycine, alanine and glutamic acid were found. Menaquinone MK-11 was the major respiratory quinone; MK-12 and MK-10 were detected in minor amounts. The polar lipid pattern consisted of phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol and one unknown component each of a phospholipid, glycolipid and aminoglycolipid. Strain Sj 10T contained the major fatty acids anteiso-C15 : 0, iso-C16 : 0 and anteiso-C17 : 0, like other members of the genus Leucobacter. Results of DNA–DNA hybridization, physiological and biochemical tests enabled strain Sj 10T to be differentiated genotypically and phenotypically from the most closely related Leucobacter species. Strain Sj 10T represents a novel species of the genus Leucobacter, for which the name Leucobacter aerolatus sp. nov. is proposed, with Sj 10T (=DSM 22806T =CCM 7705T) as the type strain.