bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcome of living donor renal allograft survival in children with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
Authors: Otukesh Hasan , Hoseini Rozita , Fereshtehnejad Seyed‐Mohammad , Behzadi Ashkan Heshmatzade , Chalian Majid , Jazayeri Masoumeh , Chalian Hamid , Javadi Ramilla
Published: June 2008

Abstract:  FSGS is the most frequent GN that may recur in a renal allograft. Compared with adults, the impact of FSGS on graft survival appears to be more significant in children. Thus we decided to assess graft survival and complications after renal transplantation in children with FSGS. Outcome of renal transplantation in 25 children with FSGS who received a renal transplant at Labafi Nejad Hospital was studied and compared with 75 patients as a control group. The mean follow‐up duration was 68.16 (s.d. = 41.93) months. Other than demographics, variables such as DGF, acute rejection, number of acute rejection episodes, and graft failure in both groups were evaluated. Acute rejection was seen in 22/25 (88%) of FSGS group, compared to 40/75 (53.3%) in the control group. This difference was statistically significant (p = 0.001). DGF was seen in 4/25 (16%) and 13/75 (17.3%) in the FSGS and control groups, respectively (p = N.S.). The mean graft survival time was 115.61 (s.e.m. = 12.56) and 155.56 (s.e.m. = 7.16) month in FSGS and control group, respectively (p = N.S.). We demonstrated that graft function and survival were not significantly different in the FSGS and control patients. However, acute rejection episodes were more common in FSGS patients but without a significant impact on graft survival.
Historical and contingent factors affect re‐evolution of a complex feature lost during mass extinction in communities of digital organisms
Authors: YEDID G. , OFRIA C. A. , LENSKI R. E.
Published: June 2008

Re‐evolution of complex biological features following the extinction of taxa bearing them remains one of evolution’s most interesting phenomena, but is not amenable to study in fossil taxa. We used communities of digital organisms (computer programs that self‐replicate, mutate and evolve), subjected to periods of low resource availability, to study the evolution, loss and re‐evolution of a complex computational trait, the function EQU (bit‐wise logical equals). We focused our analysis on cases where the pre‐extinction EQU clade had surviving descendents at the end of the extinction episode. To see if these clades retained the capacity to re‐evolve EQU, we seeded one set of multiple subreplicate ‘replay’ populations using the most abundant survivor of the pre‐extinction EQU clade, and another set with the actual end‐extinction ancestor of the organism in which EQU re‐evolved following the extinction episode. Our results demonstrate that stochastic, historical, genomic and ecological factors can lead to constraints on further adaptation, and facilitate or hinder re‐evolution of a complex feature.
Changes in biomass structure and trophic status of the plankton communities in a highly dynamic ecosystem (Gulf of Venice, Northern Adriatic Sea)
Authors: Pugnetti Alessandra , Bazzoni Anna Maria , Beran Alfred , Bernardi Aubry Fabrizio , Camatti Elisa , Celussi Mauro , Coppola Joan , Crevatin Erica , Negro Paola Del , Paoli Alessandro
Published: June 2008

The changes in the plankton biomass structure in relation to nutrient inputs were studied in the Gulf of Venice (Northern Adriatic Sea), an area characterized by a very marked trophic state variability. The investigation was carried out at two stations, in March, May and July 2005 and 2006, considering the whole water column. The size structure (from picoplankton to mesozooplankton) of both autotrophs and heterotrophs was analysed. Signals of diluted waters and nutrient inputs were more marked in 2005 than in 2006. In 2005, the total plankton biomass was almost double (87 ± 37 μg·C·l−1) that in 2006 (44 ± 26 μg·C·l−1). The variations were determined mainly by phytoplankton, with a 70% decrease, and a shift from a community dominated by microphytoplankton (49 ± 12%) in 2005 to one dominated by bacteria (43 ± 11%) in 2006 was observed. The relationship between the heterotrophic (H) and autotrophic (A) biomass indicated a rapid decline of the H/A ratio with increasing phytoplankton biomass. This study, although temporally limited, is consistent with the results reported for other marine environments and it seems to confirm the importance of nutrient inputs in structuring the biomass of plankton community.
Mass occurrence of the recent brachiopod Magellania venosa (Terebratellidae) in the fjords Comau and Reñihué, northern Patagonia, Chile
Authors: Försterra Günter , Häussermann Vreni , Lüter Carsten
Published: June 2008

Mass occurrences of the terebratellid brachiopod Magellania venosa with more than 200 individuals·m−2 are reported from the fjords Comau and Reñihué in the northernmost region of the Chilean fjordland, whereas more southern fjords do not show these high numbers of the largest living brachiopod. This is an exception to earlier observations that the abundance of M. venosa on the Chilean shelf is positively correlated with increasing latitude. As the sympatric scleractinian coral Desmophyllum dianthus also occurs in unusually high numbers in the fjords Comau and Reñihué, the hydrographical regime and its associated environmental conditions in these fjords may be responsible for these mass occurrences.
Putative transcription factor binding sites and polymorphisms in the proximal promoter of the PRL‐A gene in percomorphs and European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)
Authors: Boutet Isabelle , Quéré Nolwenn , Lecomte Frédéric , Agnèse Jean‐François , Guinand Bruno
Published: June 2008

There is an increasing interest in exploring how the mechanisms that regulate gene expression might generate diversity in phenotypes as a function of habitat utilisation (at both inter‐ and intra‐specific levels). Prolactin (PRL) is the main hormone involved in adaptation to low salinity in teleosts. Several mechanisms regulating PRL‐A gene expression have been described. The main mechanisms involve Pit‐1 binding sites and length polymorphism of a short sequence repeat (SSR) located in the proximal promoter (PP) of the gene. Together, these processes may generate phenotypes with potentially distinct physiological responses to salinity. To gain insight into their relative roles and importance, we sequenced the PP of the PRL‐A gene in the euryhaline European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and in the stenohaline sister species, Dicentrarchus punctatus. Then, we assessed the presence of both SSR and binding elements in PP among several teleost lineages, by checking available data from the literature and GenBank. The sequence of PRL‐A PP was completely distinct between the percomorphs and other lineages such as salmoniform, siluriform and cypriniform, except for short stretches of nucleotides that were highly conserved across all species, also including mammals. Most of them were identified as putative cis‐regulatory elements, including Pit‐1, but also δEF1, c‐ETS, CEBP, and GATA binding factor 2, previously unreported as regulating PRL‐A transcription in teleosts, but involved in gene regulation in mammals. This result suggests that there is greater conservation of PRL‐A regulatory mechanisms across vertebrate lineages than previously thought, and offers new perspectives for future studies. The presence and homology of an SSR in the PP of PRL‐A gene of percomorphs was demonstrated, but no SSR polymorphisms were found amongst the two Dicentrarchus species, or within natural D. labrax populations covering the known range of natural genetic variation, including marine, brackish water and freshwater populations.
Malignant Sertoli Cell Tumour in a Young Simmenthal Bull – Clinical and Pathological Observations
Authors: Jensen KL , Krag L , Boe‐Hansen GB , Jensen HE , Lehn‐Jensen H
Published: June 2008

Contents

Tumours are rare in the bovine testicle. A case of malignant Sertoli cell tumour in a 29‐month‐old Simmenthal bull that was hospitalized with a history of severe unilateral scrotal swelling is reported. On inspection and palpation, the scrotal sac was found enlarged with fluctuant content in the right side. The right testicle was enlarged, hard and indolent. Also the right plexus pampiniformis and funiculus spermaticus were enlarged. Sonograms revealed severe changes in the right testicle with a loss of homogeneity and multiple hyperechogenic areas. After slaughter, the scrotum with testicles were removed and evaluated pathologically. On section, the right testicle contained areas of necrosis, haemorrhage, and mineralization. Histology showed Sertoli cells in tubular structures surrounded by dense fibrous stroma replacing normal testicular tissue. Both lymphatic and blood vessels were infiltrated by neoplastic cells. Immunohistochemically, the neoplastic cells stained positive for vimentin and negative for cytokeratin and S‐100. Based on the pathological observations a diagnosis of right‐sided malignant Sertoli cell tumour with vascular invasion and hydrocele was established.
Body Condition Change Ante‐ and Postpartum, Health and Reproductive Performance in German Holstein Cows
Authors: Hoedemaker M , Prange D , Gundelach Y
Published: June 2008

Contents

The effects of body condition score (BCS) change and status ante‐ and postpartum (pp) on health and reproductive performance in 234 German Holstein cows from eight dairy farms were evaluated. BCS was determined from 6 weeks antepartum until 20 weeks pp in 2‐week intervals. Three and 5 weeks pp progesterone concentrations in blood serum were determined to detect the presence of luteal tissue as an indicator of cyclicity. The incidence of various diseases, percent cycling cows, reproductive measures and culling rate were assessed. Data were subjected to logistic regression to account for possible herd and lactation number effects. Cows with a low BCS status (<3.0) at calving and during early lactation (4–10 weeks pp) were at a higher risk of suffering from lameness (OR 2.9–9.4), not being cycling at 3 and/or 5 weeks pp (OR 2.24–3.99) and being culled (OR 2.56–2.79) than cows in better body condition (≥3.0) In addition, cows with a low BCS status at parturition were at a higher risk of developing endometritis (OR 2.95) and becoming pregnant later than 105 days pp (OR 5.92) than cows with a BCS ≥ 3.0. At 10 weeks pp, the risk of dystocia (OR 4.10) or retained placenta (OR 2.78) at the preceding calving and not being pregnant at 200 days pp (OR 2.42) was higher in cows with a BCS < 3.0 than with a BCS ≥ 3.0. Cows with no BCS loss antepartum were more likely to have an interval from calving to first artificial insemination of <80 days and <105 days open, to be cycling at 3 and 5 weeks pp and to be pregnant at 200 days pp than cows with a BCS loss of >0.25 (OR 2.44–6.67). Furthermore, cows with no BCS loss from calving to 4 weeks pp had a lower risk of suffering from displaced abomasum than cows with a slight or a severe BCS loss (OR 0.09–0.07 respectively). In conclusion, our results suggest that body condition loss during the antepartal period affected BCS status at parturition and to a certain extent during lactation which was linked to a higher incidence of reproductive disorders and lameness, a higher culling rate and lower reproductive performance.
Effect of Oxytocin Treatment on Artificial Insemination with Frozen–Thawed Semen in Murciano–Granadina Goats
Authors: Viudes‐de‐Castro MP , Salvador I , Marco‐Jiménez F , Gómez EA , Silvestre MA
Published: June 2008

Contents

The site where the semen is deposited appears to be one of the most important factors affecting pregnancy of inseminated goats. In Murciano–Granadina (MG) goats, post‐cervical insemination is achieved in a limited number of females. An effective way to increase fertility rate could be by increasing post‐cervical inseminations. Effect of exogenous oxytocin application to facilitate the cervical penetration and its effect on kidding rate and prolificacy in MG goats were investigated. Oestrus was synchronized using progesterone‐impregnated sponges for 11 days. Females were randomly divided into three groups (n = 190) and received either an i.v. injection of 100 or 200 IU of oxytocin or saline solution 15 min before being inseminated. Data on semen deposition depth were recorded for each animal using a catheter scaled in centimetres (up to 4 cm). Depth of semen deposition was affected by the oxytocin treatment (p < 0.05). Oxytocin enhanced cervical passage only with the dose of 200 IU compared with the control group, increasing the deposition depth (2.9 cm vs 1.9 cm). No significant effect of oxytocin treatment on kidding rate and prolificacy was detected. Depth of semen deposition affected kidding rate (p < 0.01). In conclusion, oxytocin treatment improved the depth of semen deposition in AI of MG goats, but kidding rate and prolificacy was not affected. More studies must be conducted to assess the minimal effective dose required for sufficient cervical dilation, and to determine the effects of such doses of oxytocin on uterine motility, sperm transport and fertility in goats.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in Straws and a Short Gamete Coincubation Time Improves the Efficiency of Porcine IVF
Authors: Almiñana C , Gil MA , Cuello C , Caballero I , Roca J , Vazquez JM , Martinez EA
Published: June 2008

Contents

The present study was designed to evaluate three different in vitro fertilization (IVF) systems: a straw‐IVF system with 10 min of coincubation, a straw‐IVF system with 6‐h coincubation and the microdrop‐IVF system with 6‐h coincubation (the traditional IVF system used routinely in most of IVF laboratories) in an attempt to reduce polyspermic penetration (Experiment 1). When the straw‐IVF system was tested in combination with two coincubation times, the use of 10 min of coincubation significantly increased (p < 0.001) the penetration rate and the efficiency of fertilization (67.7 ± 6.4% vs 31.9 ± 6.5% and 41.5 ± 2.5% vs 17.6 ± 2.5% for 10 min and 6 h, respectively), while there were no significant differences in the incidence of monospermy between both systems (64.3 ± 5.1% and 67.7 ± 3.4%, for 10 min and 6 h, respectively). The penetration rate in the 6‐h microdrop‐IVF system was higher (93.8 ± 3.6%; p < 0.001) compared with the 10‐min straw‐IVF system (67.7 ± 6.4%), however, monospermy was severely reduced (25.0 ± 4.3% vs 67.7 ± 3.4%, for the 6‐h microdrop‐IVF system and 10‐min straw‐IVF system, respectively). The efficiency of the IVF showed similar values between microdrop and 6‐h straw‐IVF systems, but efficiency was significantly improved (p < 0.05) when the 10‐min straw‐IVF system was used. Experiment 2 was designed to compare porcine in vitro embryo production in two IVF systems, the 6‐h microdrop‐IVF system (1000 sperm per oocyte) and 10‐min straw‐IVF system (30 000 sperm per oocyte). The blastocyst formation rates tended (p = 0.06) to be higher when the 10‐min straw‐IVF system was used compared with the 6‐h microdrop‐IVF system. In addition, the number of total cells per blastocyst increased significantly (p < 0.05) in the 10‐min straw‐IVF system. These results showed that the 10‐min straw‐IVF system is an effective way to decrease polyspermic penetration, and improve the efficiency of fertilization and the quality of blastocysts in terms of cell number per embryo.
Plasma Progesterone Profile in Ovariectomized Beef Cows after Intra‐vaginal Insertion of New, Once‐used or Twice‐used CIDR
Authors: Long ST , Yoshida C , Nakao T
Published: June 2008

Contents

Objective of this study was to show plasma progesterone concentrations in ovariectomized beef cows after treatment with new, once‐used and twice‐used controlled internal drug‐releasing devices (CIDRs). Four ovariectomized beef cows were used for the experiment. Plasma concentrations of progesterone were quantified using a validated ELISA. The CIDR was inserted into vagina of cows by using a standard CIDR applicator and then removed 7 days after insertion. One week later, once‐used CIDR was inserted and removed on day 7. Twice‐used CIDR was, then inserted at an interval of 7 days. Mean plasma concentrations of progesterone 24 h after new CIDR insertion was 4.0 ± 0.1 ng/ml, which thereafter decreased gradually to 1.4 ± 0.1 ng/ml at day 7. In cows treated with once‐used CIDR or twice‐used CIDR, mean plasma progesterone concentrations at day 1 were 2.4 ± 0.2 or 1.8 ± 0.2 ng/ml and 1.0 ± 0 or 0.9 ± 0.1 ng/ml at day 7 respectively. The results suggest that once‐used CIDR may be still effective to produce luteal phase progesterone concentrations in plasma in non‐suckling beef cows.
Use of Luprostiol and Cloprostenol for Induction of Parturition in Pregnant Goats
Authors: Batista M , Niño T , Alamo D , González F , Santana M , Rodríguez N , Cabrera F , Gracia A
Published: June 2008

Content

Pregnant goats were induced to parturition on day 145 of pregnancy, with three different protocols: group Cl (n = 19) was injected intramuscularly (IM) with 75 μg of the prostaglandin analogue R‐Cloprostenol; group L (n = 20) was treated IM with 7.5 mg of the prostaglandin analogue Luprostiol; group L50 (n = 18) was injected IM with 3.75 mg of Luprostiol (IM); in addition, Group S (Control, n = 15) was injected IM with 1 ml of saline solution. Thereafter, goats were continuously observed to record the following parameters: parturition, dystocia incidence, placental delivery and kid and maternal survival. Moreover, blood sampling was performed around kidding and plasma progesterone concentrations were analyzed. The interval from injection to parturition (mean ± SEM) was not significantly different among the experimental groups: 35.1 ± 1.5 h, 33.3 ± 0.9 h and 34.1 ± 1.8 h (groups Cl, L and L50, respectively). In the control group, time to parturition was 99.4 ± 12.1 h (range: 34–166 h). All the goats expelled the foetal membranes within the first 2 h after the induction. The incidence of dystocia due to foetal posture was not significantly different between induced and control goats (21.1%, 20.0%, 22.0% and 20%, for groups Cl, L, L50 and S, respectively). The percentage of live kids was practically similar between induced goats (93.9%, 94.9% and 92.1%, for groups Cl, L and L50, respectively); in addition, there was a case of maternal mortality in control group (6.7%; 1/15), whereas there was no mortality in induced goats (0%; 0/57). Plasma concentrations of progesterone showed an intense drop (<2 ng/ml) at 24 h after induction. This study confirms the effectiveness of the luprostiol to induce the parturition in goats, within a narrow range (30–40 h) in most of the induced females (80.0%, 7.5 mg; 77.8%, 3.75 mg).
Efficiency of Two Enucleation Methods Connected to Handmade Cloning to Produce Transgenic Porcine Embryos
Authors: Li J , Villemoes K , Zhang Y , Du Y , Kragh PM , Purup S , Xue Q , Pedersen AM , Jørgensen AL , Jakobsen JE , Bolund L , Yang H , Vajta G
Published: June 2008

Contents

The purpose of our work was to establish an efficient‐oriented enucleation method to produce transgenic embryos with handmade cloning (HMC). After 41–42 h oocytes maturation, the oocytes were further cultured with or without 0.4 μg/ml demecolcine for 45 min [chemically assisted handmade enucleation (CAHE) group vs polar body (PB) oriented handmade enucleation (OHE) group respectively]. After removal of the cumulus cells and partial digestion of the zona pellucida, oocytes with visible extrusion cones and/or polar bodies attached to the surface were subjected to oriented bisection. Putative cytoplasts without extrusion cones or PB were selected as recipients. Two cytoplasts were electrofused with one transgenic fibroblasts expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP), while non‐transgenic fibroblasts were used as controls. Reconstructed embryos were cultured in Well of Wells (WOWs) with porcine zygote medium 3 (PZM‐3) after activation. Cleavage and blastocyst rates were registered on day 2 and day 7 of in vitro culture respectively. Meanwhile, the total blastocyst cell number was counted on day 7. We found that the difference was only observed between blastocyst rates (38.6 ± 2% vs 48.1 ± 3%) of cloned embryos with GFP transgenic fibroblast cells after CAHE vs OHE. With adjusted time‐lapse for zonae‐free cloned embryos cultured in WOWs with PZM‐3, it was obvious that in vitro developmental competence after CAHE was compromised when compared with the OHE method. OHE enucleation method seems to be a potential superior alternative method used for somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) with transgenic fibroblast cells.
Cysticercus tenuicollis Vesicle in Fetal Structures: Report of a Case
Authors: Payan‐Carreira R , Silva F , Rodrigues M , Dos Anjos Pires M
Published: June 2008

Contents

Cysticercus tenuicollis is the larval stage of the canine tapeworm Taenia hydatigena, the presence of which has been reported in wild and domestic ruminants all over the world. It is a common parasite of small ruminants in the north of Portugal. C. tenuicollis is generally seen attached to the omenta, the mesenteries or also found in the liver. In the ewe, tissue lesions have been associated with degenerative cysts or with oncosphere migrations. Unusual locations of the cysticerci of T. hydatigena have been described. The most frequent unusual locations are in the lungs, the kidneys and the brain. Less common locations have been reported to occur in the ovaries, uterine tubes, uterus, cervix and vagina. In the case described here, and for the first time, an aberrant location of a C. tenuicollis vesicle was found inside the chorion‐allantoic membrane of a goat’s foetus, in a gemelar gestation of approximately 70 days. Finding a C. tenuicollis vesicle inside fetal membranes forewarns of the possibility of larval migrations into the fetal structures during pregnancy, which is particularly concerning in human populations that are infested.
Effects of Exogenous Tumour Necrosis Factor‐α on the Secretory Function of the Bovine Reproductive Tract Depend on Tumour Necrosis Factor‐α Concentrations
Authors: Skarzynski DJ , Piotrowska KK , Bah MM , Korzekwa A , Woclawek‐Potocka I , Sawai K , Okuda K
Published: June 2008

Contents

The aim of study was to correlate tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF) infused doses used with the TNF concentrations achieved and with the secretory function of both the ovary and the uterus in cows. We evaluated the concentrations of progesterone (P4), prostaglandin (PG)F2α, PGE2nitric oxide (NO) and TNF in the jugular vein andvena cava caudalisas parameters of exogenous TNF action on the female reproductive tract.Aortae abdominalisof cows (n = 18) were infused with saline or two doses of TNF (luteolytic – 1 μg or luteotrophic – 10 μg). In the peripheral blood, 1 μg TNF concentrations achieved within the range of 30–45 pg/ml, and 10 μg TNF provoked a sharp increase in achieved concentrations at a range of 250–450 pg/mL). The TNF concentrations achieved invena cava caudaliswere five to six times higher than that in peripheral blood (p < 0.001). One microgram TNF increased PGF2αand NO (p < 0.001) and decreased P4 (p < 0.05). The higher TNF dose stimulated P4 and PGE2(p < 0.01). TNF infusion at luteolytic dose achieved its concentrations at the physiological range previously observed in cows. Luteotrophic TNF dose achieved the concentrations invena cava caudalisthat are much higher than physiological level and were previously noted in pathological circumstances (i.e.mastitis,metritis).
Anthropometry and body composition in ethnic Japanese and Caucasian adolescent boys
Authors: Sampei Míriam A. , Novo Neil F. , Juliano Yara , Sigulem Dirce M.
Published: June 2008

Background: The effect of environmental conditions on development, including growth, maturation and the fulfillment of genetic potential, can be identified through the study of the variations found among different ethnic groups in the same population. The objectives of the present study were: (i) to compare the various anthropometric and body composition parameters based on ethnicity and maturation stage in 31 Japanese and 99 Caucasian prepubescent boys and 50 Japanese and 98 Caucasian post‐pubescent boys; and (ii) to assess body mass index (BMI) and its relationship with other methods of body fat evaluation.

Methods: The percentage of body fat was measured using bioelectrical impedance, near‐infrared interactance and Slaughter cutaneous skinfold equations.

Results: Weight and height were statistically lower for the Japanese than the Caucasian subjects. There were no differences in body fat between the ethnic groups, but the Japanese subjects had statistically lower levels of fat‐free mass. The gain in fat‐free mass and the loss in body fat when attaining maturation were greater in the Caucasian subjects. The agreement of BMI with other methods was good in all of the groups but lower for the Japanese than for the Caucasian subjects.

Conclusion: Height and weight differences between the ethnic groups indicated distinct genetic potential ranges. The body fat mass did not differ between the ethnic groups, but the degree of changes when attaining maturation in the Caucasian subjects was greater. If this difference were to be maintained between the groups then years later there would be a greater accumulation of fat in the Japanese subjects.
Clinical and electrophysiological features of Japanese pediatric long QT syndrome patients with KCNQ1 mutations
Authors: Yasuda Kenji , Hayashi George , Horie Akiyoshi , Taketani Takeshi , Yamaguchi Seiji
Published: June 2008

Background: The purpose of the present paper was to determine the clinical and electrophysiological features of Japanese pediatric long QT syndrome (LQTS) patients with KCNQ1 mutations (LQT1).

Methods: KCNQ1 mutations were analyzed in 13 Japanese pediatric patients with prolonged QT interval on electrocardiogram (ECG). These LQT1 patients were reviewed, retrospectively, for the presence of past and family histories of LQTS‐related cardiac events, other complications, and their ECG findings evaluated at rest and during exercise).

Results: KCNQ1 mutations were identified in eight patients (61.5%) from six unrelated families. Four missense mutations were identified in seven patients and an insertion/deletion in one. The mutations were located in the transmembrane domain in four patients and the C‐terminal domain in four. Syncope did not occur in patients with the C‐terminal domain mutations up to the age of 6–9 years, but family members of patients with the C‐terminal domain mutations had a history of syncope in their elementary school days. Compared with a non‐LQTS control group, peak heart rate (HR) on exercise and the HR increase during exercise were significantly lower in the LQT1 group (LQT1 vs control, 155 ± 16 beats/min vs 182 ± 13 beats/min, P < 0.01, 66 ± 16 beats/min vs 99 ± 24 beats/min, P < 0.01, respectively).

Conclusions: The risk of LQTS‐related cardiac events may not be different in pediatric LQT1 patients with C‐terminal domain mutations than in patients with transmembrane domain mutations. Possible sinus node dysfunction or a poor HR response to sympathetic stimulation has been suggested in pediatric LQT1 patients.
Pharmacokinetic study of mizoribine in child‐onset glomerulonephritis
Authors: Abe Yoshifusa , Mikawa Takeshi , Fuke Toshiya , Hisano Masataka , Tsuji Yuichiro , Watanabe Shuichiro , Itabashi Kazuo
Published: June 2008

Background: Mizoribine (MZR) has been successfully used without serious adverse effects in patients with various types of glomerulonephritis, but there are only a few pharmacokinetic studies of MZR. The purpose of the present paper was to report the results of a pharmacokinetic study of MZR in child‐onset glomerulonephritis.

Methods: Nine patients were enrolled. MZR was administered orally at 60–300 mg/day (3.0–8.4 mg/kg bodyweight/day) divided in one or two daily doses. Blood samples were collected 7–10 times before and after drug administration. Urine samples were also collected during the blood sampling periods. Twenty‐three concentration curves of MZR were analyzed in the present study. Pharmacokinetic parameters for mizoribine were estimated using concentration–time profiles. The non‐parametric Spearman correlation coefficient was calculated to determine significant associations between variables. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results: The obtained pharmacokinetic values at a dose of 3.36 ± 1.91 mg/kg bodyweight were as follows: time to peak serum MZR concentration, 2.94 ± 0.82 h; peak serum MZR concentration, 1.59 ± 1.16 μg/mL; half‐life, 1.96 ± 0.92 h; area under the serum MZR concentration–time curve from time zero to infinity, 9.36 ± 6.58 μg h/mL; volume of the distribution of MZR at a steady state, 2.03 ± 0.80 L/kg; and rate of urinary excretion of MZR, 49.1 ± 18.7%.

Conclusions: The parameters estimated in the present study may be useful for the MZR treatment of patients with child‐onset glomerulonephritis.
Complex regional pain syndromes in children and adolescents
Authors: Kachko Ludmyla , Efrat Rachel , Ben Ami Shiri , Mukamel Masha , Katz Jacob
Published: June 2008

Background: The purpose of the present paper was to assess efficiency of treatment and long‐term functional outcome of complex regional pain syndromes (CRPS) in children who were treated in the chronic pain clinic at a major tertiary hospital in Israel.

Methods: The files of 14 children with CRPS were analyzed retrospectively. Demographic data, initiating event, referring source, time needed for referral to pain clinic, clinical evaluation, treatment, recurrence and complications were recorded.

Results: Fourteen children with CRPS types I and II were included in the study. Girls were affected in 71%. Lower extremities were affected in 57%. The median time from onset of symptoms to seeking medical help was 4.46 weeks (range 2–82 weeks). The median time to referral to pain clinic was 24.51 weeks (range 1.2–94). In 45% the referral source was the pediatrician. A total of 85.8% of patients were referred to various consultations before the pain clinic. Most children had reduced pain and improved function on non‐invasive treatment approach. Invasive treatments were used in 28.5%. Full or partial recovery was accomplished in 93%. Recurrence was observed in 29%.

Conclusions: CRPS in children and adolescents is still underdiagnosed, although many of the epidemiologic features of pediatric CRPS are similar in different countries/cultures. Early recognition and management is the major factor in improving outcome and preventing resistant CRPS, but even children with delayed diagnosis still have a good outcome. The management of this disease by an experienced multidisciplinary team is recommended. Because psychosocial factors play an important role, it is recommended to provide psychological evaluation and cognitive behavioral treatment as soon as possible.
Effects of bodyweight on health‐related quality of life in school‐aged children and adolescents
Authors: Sato Hirokazu , Nakamura Nobue , Sasaki Nozomu
Published: June 2008

Background: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of bodyweight on health‐related quality of life (QOL) in children.

Methods: A questionnaire to assess health‐related QOL was developed and completed by 242 primary school children and 180 junior high school students in Morioka, Japan. Subjects were classified by obesity index into three groups as follows: underweight, ≤−20% obesity index (n = 13); normal weight, between +20% and −20% (n = 354); and overweight, ≥+20% (n = 55). The overall QOL score and the score of each domain were compared among the three groups and in each gender.

Results: Overall QOL scores did not differ significantly among the three groups. The scores for the domain of ‘strength, diligence and self‐esteem’ in the underweight and overweight groups were significantly lower than those for the normal‐weight group overall and for girls (P < 0.01). Scores for the ‘school’ domain in the underweight group were significantly lower than those for the overweight group overall and for boys (P < 0.05).

Conclusions: Children, except those of normal bodyweight, have low scores in some domains of health‐related QOL, suggesting the importance of considering the effects of bodyweight on QOL in programs aimed at further understanding under‐ or overweight children and adolescents.
Frequent methylprednisone pulse therapy is a risk factor for steroid cataracts in children
Authors: Nerome Yasuhito , Imanaka Hiroyuki , Nonaka Yukiko , Takei Syuji , Kawano Yoshifumi
Published: June 2008

Background: Pediatricians use corticosteroids for prolonged periods of time for the treatment of many diseases, including rheumatic disease. The side‐effects of corticosteroids, especially cataracts, are widely recognized, but the predictive risk factors for steroid‐induced cataracts have not yet been fully characterized.

Methods: The relationship between the formation of cataracts and steroid therapy was evaluated in patients with rheumatic disease.

Results: The initiation of steroid therapy in children under 12 years of age (P = 0.041) and i.v. methylprednisone pulse therapy (IVMP) (P = 0.046) are significant risk factors for inducing cataracts. In contrast, the cumulative corticosteroid dose, sex, and daily corticosteroid dose were not associated with cataract formation.

Conclusions: Younger children, who need frequent IVMP to treat their rheumatic diseases, should be examined by ophthalmologists frequently to avoid developing amblyopia from cataracts.
Siesta and sleep patterns in a sample of adolescents in Greece
Authors: Paraskakis Emmanouil , Ntouros Thomas , Ntokos Michail , Siavana Ourania , Bitsori Maria , Galanakis Emmanouil
Published: June 2008

Background: Sleep behaviors and disturbances in adolescence are being increasingly investigated. The aim of the present study was to investigate the sleep habits of adolescents living in provincial Greece.

Methods: Responses to pre‐constructed questionnaires on sleep habits and disturbances from 471 high‐school students (259 boys; 212 girls), aged 14–18 years, attending four high schools of rural and semi‐urban areas in north‐western Greece, were analyzed.

Results: The median nocturnal and total sleep duration was 7.5 h (range, 2.5–11 h) and 8.5 h (range, 2.5–14 h), respectively, and the average bedtime was 23.55 hours. Male students, older adolescents and residents of towns went to bed later than female students, younger adolescents and residents of villages (P = 0.039, P = 0.0003 and P = 0.056, respectively). Siesta on a regular basis was reported by 43% and on an occasional basis by 46% of the students. Siesta median duration was 1.5 h (range 0.5–4.5 h). Daytime sleepiness, difficulties in morning awakening and in falling asleep, and night awakenings were reported by 26.3%, 17.4%, 17.2% and 11.2%, respectively. Students who had siestas reported less daytime sleepiness (P < 0.0001). Significant differences were observed between boys and girls regarding sleep disturbances.

Conclusion: Adolescents in provincial Greece present with a different sleep pattern as compared to their northern European peers, characterized by late bedtime and midday siesta. Similarly to their peers in other countries, considerable rates of sleep disturbances were reported.
Infant injuries from child restraint safety seat misuse at British Columbia Children’s Hospital
Authors: Desapriya Ediriweera BR , Joshi Pamela , Subzwari Sayed , Nolan Mhairi
Published: June 2008

Background: Child restraint safety seats (CRS) are used to prevent injuries or deaths among child passengers involved in a motor vehicle crash. When used outside of a motor vehicle, CRS use could potentially place an infant at risk of injury. The objective of the current study was to describe the proportion of CRS misuse injuries among infants <12 months old and associated factors presenting to the British Columbia (BC) Children’s Hospital Emergency Department over 5 years (1997–2002).

Methods: The Canadian Hospital Injury Reporting and Prevention Program (CHIRPP) was the source for the emergency department injury surveillance data used in the present study. BC Children’s Hospital is the participating CHIRPP site in British Columbia. A search of individual level patient records was conducted to capture all injuries from CRS misuse taking place during the study period using a predetermined code for ‘child car seat‐related injuries’. A retrospective analysis of 87 infants <12 months old, who presented at BC Children’s Hospital for CRS‐related injuries between January 1997 and December 2002 was performed in order to describe the epidemiologic and background factors related to injury occurrence.

Results: Infants aged 0–4 months accounted for approximately 59.7% of cases (52/87). Among all infants, falls were a common mechanism of injury resulting from CRS misuse (98.8%, 86/87). Falls from elevated surfaces (e.g. chairs, tables, counters) were also common among infants presenting to the emergency departments and accounted for 43% of all falls (37/86).

Conclusions: Injury prevention efforts should be focused on reducing CRS outside the motor vehicle setting and preventing placement of the CRS at an elevated surface. Educating caregivers on the dangers of falls resulting from CRS misuse in a variety of care settings is also recommended.
Cytomegalovirus infection and wheezing in infants
Authors: Morisawa Yutaka , Maeda Akihiko , Sato Tetsuya , Hisakawa Hiroaki , Fujieda Mikiya , Wakiguchi Hiroshi
Published: June 2008

Background: Bronchial asthma‐like symptoms such as wheezing are commonly associated with respiratory tract infection including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in infants. No study on the association of wheezing with cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in infancy has been reported, although CMV infection has been observed to play some role in prolonged and intractable wheezing in limited cases.

Methods: The present study investigated 40 hospitalized infants who presented with first‐episode wheezing between October 2003 and September 2004. Nasopharyngeal aspirates were tested for RSV, and serum antibodies against CMV were measured. As controls, age‐matched infants with no wheezing were examined for CMV serostatus.

Results: RSV‐antigen was detected in 21 subjects (53%), and seven (18%) were considered primary CMV infection serologically. Primary CMV infection was found more often in the wheezers than in the controls although the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.06). The incidence of splenomegaly was significantly higher in wheezers with CMV infection (86%) than in those with RSV infection or without either infection. The duration of wheezing, fever, and radiographic and laboratory findings during hospitalization were not significantly different.

Conclusions: CMV infection based on serologic diagnosis should be considered in infants with first wheezing episode and particularly those with splenomegaly.
Proficiency and knowledge gained and retained by pediatric residents after neonatal resuscitation course
Authors: Duran Rıdvan , Aladağ Nükhet , Vatansever Ülfet , Küçükuğurluoğlu Yasemin , Süt Necdet , Acunaş Betül
Published: June 2008

Background: In previous studies the efficacy of the Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) was evaluated, demonstrating good retention of knowledge in the participants. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the knowledge and proficiency that pediatric residents gained and retained following NRP and to determine the necessity and timing of the refresher courses.

Methods: The study consisted of 42 pediatric residents who were divided into three groups. Group 1 included pediatric residents who attended the course 1 year previously (n = 18); group 2, 6 months previously (n = 12); and group 3 included those residents who had not attended the NRP previously (n = 12). A written test consisting of 100 questions was applied, and endotracheal intubation skill on a neonatal manikin was evaluated.

Results: The percentage of correct answers of participants in groups 1 and 2 decreased similarly during the 6 month and 1 year time period following previous courses. After the new NRP the correct answers increased significantly in groups 1 and 2. The duration of intubation attempt was 17.8 ± 6.0 s in group 1, 17.5 ± 1.5 s in group 2, and 22.3 ± 2.6 s in group 3 before the course and decreased after the course to 10.9 ± 2.0 s in group 1, 10.3 ± 1.5 s in group 2, and 11.7 ± 1.6 s in group 3. The knowledge missing after 6 months and 1 year were similar, while intubation skill decreased after 1 year following the course.

Conclusions: Due to worsening of test findings at 6 months after NRP, and deterioration of performance of intubation 1 year after NRP, it is suggested that a refresher course may be required every year.
Prevalence of acanthosis nigricans in relation to anthropometric measures: Community‐based cross‐sectional study in Korean pre‐adolescent school children
Authors: Chang Yoosoo , Woo Hee‐Yeon , Sung Eunju , Kim Cheol Hwan , Kang Heetae , Ju Young Su , Park Kyung Hee
Published: June 2008

Background: This cross‐sectional study was performed to assess the prevalence of acanthosis nigricans (AN) across various anthropometric measures and to identify the cut‐offs for anthropometric indices of adiposity for development of AN in Asian preadolescent school children.

Methods: Body mass index (BMI), percentage weight for height (PWH), percentage body fat (PBF), and AN of the neck were evaluated in children in the fifth grade of all elementary schools in one metropolitan, Korean city (2117 boys and 1916 girls, mean age 10.9 ± 0.6 years, mean BMI 18.6 ± 3.3 kg/m2).

Results: The prevalence of AN was 8.4% in boys and 5.1% in girls, and was proportional to the BMI, PWH, and PBF. The prevalence of AN rose steeply in the 80th and 90th percentiles of the BMI, PWH, and PBF in boys and girls, respectively. According to receiver operating characteristic analysis, AN was observed in boys with BMI >22.2 kg/m2, and in girls with BMI >21.2 kg/m2, which are below the current criteria for childhood obesity (local BMI 95th percentile and International Obesity Task Force BMI 30 kg/m2).

Conclusions: AN has a good correlation with level of adiposity, and was already present in overweight children that were not considered obese by definition.
Complications of percutaneously inserted central venous catheters in Japanese neonates
Authors: Ohki Yasushi , Yoshizawa Yukihiro , Watanabe Masayuki , Kuwashima Makoto , Morikawa Akihiro
Published: June 2008

Background: To determine institutional policies concerning percutaneously inserted central venous catheter (PICC) utilization and also frequencies of complications such as pericardial effusion (PCE), cardiac tamponade (CT), pleural effusion, ascites, venous thrombosis, and catheter removal difficulties.

Methods: Nationwide postal questionnaire survey was carried out that included institutional policies on PICC and numbers of complications recorded from January 1999 to December 2003.

Results: A total of 98 replies were received from 193 neonatal intensive care units (NICU) in Japan. As a catheter tip location, positions outside of the heart were highly preferred, while only 9% accepted a right atrial position. Twenty‐eight cases of PCE or CT were reported, representing an estimated frequency of 0.07–0.11% of PICC insertions. Pleural effusion/ascites and removal difficulties (36 and 35 cases, respectively) were encountered in approximately 0.09–0.14% of insertions.

Conclusions: Frequency of PCE/CT appeared comparable to previously reported occurrences. Also, pleural effusion/ascites and removal difficulty appeared to be rare complications.
Predictive factors for survival for out‐born infants born between 23 and 24 weeks of gestation in the post‐surfactant era: Fourteen years’ experience in a single neonatal care unit, 1987–2000
Authors: Hosono Shigeharu , Ohno Tsutomu , Kimoto Hirofumi , Shimizu Masaki , Takahashi Shigeru , Harada Kensuke
Published: June 2008

Background: The purpose of the present paper was to identify the predictive factors for survival for out‐born infants born between 23 and 24 weeks of gestation.

Methods: Ninety‐two infants born between 23 and 24 weeks’ gestation who were admitted to a level III neonatal intensive care unit from 1987 to 2000, were retrospectively studied. Survival was defined as discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit. Logistic regression was done to determine which clinical factors were most predictive of survival. The independent variables that were entered into the models were determined by preliminary univariate analysis.

Results: Ninety‐two infants were enrolled in the present study, 49 of whom survived in the surfactant era. The four variables that were found to be most predictive for survival on logistic regression were systolic blood pressure at 6 h (odds ratio [OR], 1.3; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.11–1.44 1 mmHg), ventilatory index < 0.047 (OR, 4.8; 95%CI: 1.07–21.65), initial hemoglobin value (OR, 1.6; 95%CI: 1.09–2.34/1 g/dL), and base excess at 6 h (OR, 2.1; 95%CI: 1.08–1.84/5 mEq/L).

Conclusions: A total of 53.2% of infants delivered between 23 and 24 weeks of gestation survived at discharge after introduction of surfactant replacement therapy. Early cardiopulmonary adaptation and initial hemoglobin value are key factors for survival in infants born at 23–24 weeks of gestation.
cagA, vacA, and iceA genotypes of Helicobacter pylori in Korean children
Authors: Ko Jae Sung , Kim Kyung Mo , Oh Young Lyun , Seo Jeong Kee
Published: June 2008

Background: Several putative virulence factors for Helicobacter pylori have been identified including cagA, vacA, and iceA. The aims of the present study were to study the distribution of cagA, vacA, and iceA genotypes in children with H. pylori gastritis and to examine the association of genotypes with severity of gastritis.

Methods: H. pylori DNA was extracted from antral biopsy specimens from 33 children with H. pylori gastritis. Specific polymerase chain reaction assays were used for three genes: cagA, vacA, and iceA. The features of gastritis were graded in accordance with the updated Sydney System.

Results: Of the 33 children, 31 (94%) were cagA positive. Twenty‐four (72%) had s1c genotype and nine (27%) had s1a. The m1 genotype was seen in 27 (82%) and m2 was found in five (15%). The iceA1 genotype was detected in 25 (76%). Scores of neutrophil activity, chronic inflammation, and H. pylori density were independent of cagA, vacA and iceA status.

Conclusion: The cagA‐positive vacA s1c/m1 iceA1 genotype was predominant in Korean children with recurrent abdominal pain and H. pylori gastritis. The cagA, vacA and iceA genotype were not associated with the severity of gastritis.
Spontaneous closure of perimembranous ventricular septal defect after school age
Authors: Miyake Toshiharu , Shinohara Tohru , Fukuda Tsuyoshi , Ikeoka Megumi , Takemura Tsukasa
Published: June 2008

Background: The number of studies of long‐term follow up to adolescence is very low on spontaneous closure (SC) of perimembranous ventricular septal defects (P‐VSD) in children not undergoing surgical closure because of small left‐to‐right shunting.

Methods: Seventy patients with a P‐VSD with pulmonary‐to‐systemic flow ratio (Qp/Qs) < 1.7 underwent cardiac catheterization at the age of 2–10 years (mean, 5.1 years). Excluding 22 patients who dropped out by 15 years, 48 were selected. Qp/Qs ranged from 1.00 to 1.68 (mean, 1.17). The average follow‐up period of 37 patients excluding the SC patients was 17.8 years. They were classified according to Qp/Qs into three groups: group I, 1.4 ≤ Qp/Qs < 1.7; group II, 1.2 ≤ Qp/Qs < 1.4; and group III, 1.0 ≤ Qp/Qs < 1.2.

Results: SC occurred in 11 patients (23%). SC rates in group I and II were lower than those in group III (I, 0/8 0%; II, 1/10 10%; III, 10/30 33%). In 23 patients (48%), an aneurysm of the ventricular membranous septum (AVMS) was detected, but no significant relationship was found between the presence of AVMS and SC rate.

Conclusions: SC occurred in 23% of patients with a P‐VSD of Qp/Qs < 1.7 up to adolescence. But a P‐VSD of Qp/Qs ≥ 1.2 showed no tendency to close spontaneously. The factor most influencing SC of P‐VSD after school age seemed to be the shunt ratio.