bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFFECTS OF GROWTH HORMONE ON PROTEIN METABOLISM Acute Changes in Plasma Amino Acids in Growth Retarded Patients with and without Growth Hormone Deficiency
Authors: STAHNKE NIKOLAUS , PLETTNER CHRISTA , BLUNCK WERNER
Published: January 2008

Abstract 39 patients with growth retardation were investigated: 21 (group H) were suffering from GH deficiency and 18 (group N) had no endocrine disease except for two adequately treated patients with mild hypothyroidism. Analysis of 15 plasma amino acid concentrations was carried out before and 1 and 2 hours after intravenous HGH injection at a dosage of 2 mg per m2. Except for one amino acid no significant difference between mean pre‐treatment amino acid values was observed in the two groups of patients. In group H there was a highly significant decrease in plasma concentration of 14 amino acids already 1 hour after HGH injection and of all 15 amino acids after 2 hours. This response of plasma amino acids to HGH was less pronounced in group N. For 5 amino acids a moderate correlation was found in group H between acute metabolic response to HGH and growth response to long‐term HGH treatment. Our results following HGH injection may reflect increased plasma amino acid transfer into cells due to HGH.
RENAL GROWTH AND FUNCTION IN PATIENTS NEPHRECTOMIZED IN CHILDHOOD
Authors: APERIA A. , BROBERGER O. , WIKSTAD I. , WILTON P.
Published: January 2008

Abstract Aperia, A., Broberger, O., Wikstad, I. and Wilton, P. (Department of Paediatrics and Paediatric Radiology, Karolinska Institute, St. Göran's Children's Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden). Renal growth and function in patients nephrectomized in childhood. Acta Paediatr Scand, 66:185, 1977.—Eight patients nephrectomized in childhood were studied with regard to growth and function of the remaining kidney. The age of the patients ranged between 8½ and 31 years and the follow‐up period was from 1 to 20 years. In most of the patients, repeated renal size determinations were made on postoperative urograms. Normal values for kidney size in childhood are also presented. The structural hypertrophy continued for at least three years after nephrectomy and was most pronounced in patients nephrectomized before three years of age. When more than three years had passed after nephrectomy the remaining kidney was 35–65% larger than normal. Healthy young adults and children with a previous history of urinary tract infection served as controls for function studies. The balance between glomerular and tubular function was well preserved in nephrectomized patients. The renal surface area showed the same relation to GFR and to reabsorption of bicarbonate in nephrectomized patients as in controls. It is therefore concluded that the increase in kidney function following unilateral nephrectomy is, at least in early life, primarily due to structural enlargement.
TRANSFER FACTOR IN CHRONIC AND RECURRENT RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTIONS IN CHILDREN
Authors: GRÖHN P.
Published: January 2008

Abstract Gröhn, P. (The Institute of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Tampere, and the Children's Department, Tampere Central Hospital, Tampere, Finland). Transfer factor in chronic and recurrent respiratory tract infections in children. Acta Paediatr Scand, 66:211, 1977.—Five cases with abnormal sensitivity to respiratory tract infections are described. The cases showed a marked impairment in their cell mediated immunity state. Administration of a chromatographically purified transfer factor component increased the skin test sensitivity to common recall antigens. Interestingly, a similar effect in skin reactivity was observed with repeated skin tests alone, when antigen concentrations, initially high enough to cause a positive reaction, were used. Neither the administration of transfer factor nor skin testing with high antigen concentrations had an effect on blast transformation percentages. The therapy with chromatographically purified transfer factor appeared promising on the clinical condition of the patients.
ANTIMICROBIAL FACTORS IN HUMAN MILK
Authors: REDDY VINODINI , BHASKARAM C. , RAGHURAMULU N. , JAGADEESAN V.
Published: January 2008

Abstract Vinodini Reddy, Bhaskaram, C., Raghuramulu, N. and Jagadeesan, V. (National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad, India). Antimicrobial factors in human milk. Acta Paediatr Scand, 66:229, 1977.—Levels of immunoglobulins, lactoferrin and lysozyme were determined in milk samples obtained from well‐nourished and under‐nourished Indian women at different stages of lactation. The concentration of immunoglobulins and lactoferrin was higher in colostrum than in mature milk while the lysozyme levels showed a progressive increase with the period of lactation. There were no significant differences in the levels between the two groups of women. Administration of iron did not alter either the total or percentage saturation of lactoferrin in milk. These results indicate that antibacterial factors in milk are not influenced by the nutritional status of the mother and that iron supplementation does not interfere with the bacteriostatic function of lactoferrin.
MENARCHEAL AGE IN GIRLS WITH CONGENITAL DISLOCATION OF THE HIP
Authors: FREDENSBORG N. , NILSSON B. E.
Published: January 2008

Abstract Fredensborg, N. and Nilsson, B. E. (Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Lund, Malmö General Hospital, Malmö, Sweden). Menarcheal age in girls with congenital dislocation of the hip. Acta Paediatr Scand, 66:241, 1977.—The age at menarche was recorded in a series of girls with congenital dislocation of the hip and compared with a control sample drawn from the population at risk. The menarcheal age of the CDH patients was decreased by, on average, six months, the decrease being caused by the presence among the CDH girls of a few individuals with a very early menarche. These girls were heavier and taller than other CDH girls, who in their turn, are taller and heavier than other girls. The findings support the concept of CDH as a manifestation of some hormonal deviation, which also causes early physical maturation.
HERPES ENCEPHALITIS
Authors: WOLMAN B. , LONGSON M.
Published: January 2008

Abstract Wolman, B. and Longson, M. (Department of Paediatrics and North Manchester Regional Virus Laboratory, Booth Hall Children's Hospital, Manchester, England). Herpes encephalitis. Acta Paediatr Scand, 66:243, 1977.—Four cases of herpes encephalitis treated with dexamethasone and cytarabine. Cases were all verified by brain biopsy and im‐munofluorescent techniques. Attention is called to the need for early diagnosis, but the difficulty of deciding when to perform brain biopsy is discussed. Early treatment with effective drugs is necessary to prevent permanent brain damage.
A CASE OF FOCAL DERMAL HYPOPLASIA (GOLTZ SYNDROME) WITH SOME NEW ASPECTS
Authors: BEGANOVIĆ N. , LOMMEN E. J. P.
Published: January 2008

Abstract Beganović, N. and Lommcn, E. J. P. (Paediatric Department, St. Josephziekenhuis, Eindhoven, the Netherlands). A case of focal dermal hypoplasia (Goltz syndrome), with some new aspects. Acta Paediatr Scand, 66:255, 1977.—A case of Focal Dermal Hypoplasia (Goltz syndrome), diagnosed at birth, is reported. Some findings not formerly described (hemimelia, schizis of the palatum molle and the absence of one umbilical artery) are reported. Normal findings in chromosome studies with banding techniques are discussed.
SEVERE DISSEMINATED ADENOVIRUS INFECTION SUCCESSFULLY TREATED WITH A THYMIC HUMORAL FACTOR, THF
Authors: VARSANO I. , SCHONFELD T. M. , MATOTH Y. , SHOHAT B. , ENGLANDER T. , ROTTER V. , TRAININ N.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Adenovirus and other usually benign viral infections may occasionally be associated with severe fulminant disease, often accompanied by acute acquired cellular immunodeficiency. Thymic humoral factor derived from calf thymuses has been demonstrated to have the capacity to restore the immunocompetence of immature, incompetent T cells. This factor was used in the treatment of a 3½‐year‐old boy who was critically ill with an adenovirus infection and presented evidence of immunocellular deficiency. Within less than 48 hours after the institution of treatment with thymic humoral factor there was a dramatic, progressive clinical improvement, with restoration of the cellular immunocompetence. It is suggested that thymic humoral factor may be beneficial in the treatment of severe viral infections associated with depressed cellular immunocompetence.
ASYMPTOMATIC BACTERIURIA IN SCHOOLGIRLS VI. The Correlation between Urinary and Faecal Escherichia coli. Relation to the Duration of the Bacteriuria and the Sampling Technique
Authors: LIDIN‐JANSON G. , LINDBERG U.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. The occurrence of the urinary strain in the anus, rectum and faeces was investigated in 27 girls with asymptomatic bacteriuria (ABU). In patients with bacteriuria of relatively short duration 46% of the faecal isolates were of the urinary strain as compared to only 18% in patients with bacteriuria of relatively long duration. In general the correlation between the urinary and faecal flora is striking at the time of establishment of ABU but diminishes with time. The diminished correlation may be due to two factors: firstly, the composition of the faecal flora changes with time. Secondly, the correlation may be obscured by complex changes in the properties of bacterial strains established in the urinary tract. Contamination by the infected urine did not seem to be a serious problem when the rectal mucosa was swabbed proximal to the anal canal.
CORD SERUM LIPID AND LIPOPROTEIN‐CHOLESTEROL VALUES IN NORMAL AND BETAMETHASONE‐TREATED NEWBORNS OF VARYING GESTATIONAL AGE
Authors: ANDERSEN G. E. , FRIIS‐HANSEN B.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Cord serum total cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein‐, low density lipoprotein‐, high density lipoprotein‐cholesterol and triglyceride was determined in 30 AGA infants and 35 SGA infants born between the ≥37th≤42th week of gestation and in 26 AGA infants born between the ≥33th<37th week of gestation. In SGA infants significantly higher VLDL‐cholesterol and triglyceride values vere found than in AGA infants. In AGA infants <37 weeks of gestation total cholesterol, LDL‐, and HDL‐cholesterol concentrations were higher than in AGA infants ≥37 weeks of gestation. In 10 betamethasone‐treated AGA infants <37 weeks of gestation HDL‐cholesterol was higher than in 16 untreated AGA infants <37 weeks of gestation.
DISSEMINATED ARTHRITIS AND OSTEITIS BY CANDIDA ALBICANS IN A TWO MONTH OLD INFANT RECEIVING PARENTERAL NUTRITION
Authors: BUSINCO L. , IANNACCONE G. , PRINCIPE D. DEL , LUCARELLI S. , CARDI E. , REZZA E.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. The case of a two‐month‐old female infant, who after a severe diarrhoea treated with prolonged intravenous infusion in peripheral veins alternated with total parenteral feeding, developed a Candida albicans septicemia (accompanied by disseminated intravascular coagulation syndrome) is reported. The course of her disease was also complicated by multiple foci of osteoarthritis in both knees, in the left hip and in several long‐bones. Radiographically the foci of Candida osteitis appeared as fine erosion of the cortex and minute round areas of osteolysis in the spongiosa, surrounded by a rim of perifocal sclerosis. During the acute stage of Candida sepsis a transitory cellular immunodeficiency was present. Treatment of Candida infection by 5‐fluorocytosine was followed by complete recovery.
ABNORMALITIES OF IMMUNOGLOBULINS IN INFANTS WITH CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE
Authors: COLE A. P. , PERRY D. , HOBBS J. R.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Twenty‐eight infants had their serum immunoglobulins estimated (by radial immunodiffusion) in early infancy. The IgG level was abnormal in twelve infants. Elevated levels of IgA were found in ten and IgM in fourteen. These variations, mostly obvious in the first ten days of life, were detected in the absence of clinical or immunological evidence of congenital rubella infection.
CELLULAR AND HUMORAL FACTORS INVOLVEMENT IN THE ENHANCED NBT REDUCTION BY NEUTROPHIL LEUCOCYTES OF NEWBORN INFANTS
Authors: TOVO P. A. , PONZONE A.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. The histochemical NBT test was performed on blood samples from ten healthy newborn infants. High spontaneous NBT reduction has been confirmed for neutrophils and assessed for monocytes. The stimulation of both neutrophils and monocytes with Escherichia coli endotoxin induces a statistically significant increase of NBT positive cells. The reason for the false positive test results in neonates was investigated by incubating neutrophils from adult donors and for different time periods in either neonatal or adult plasma before the addition of NBT. NBT reduction by adult neutrophils was increased after incubation in neonatal plasma, and this increase was related to the concentration of the plasma used. Maximum NBT reduction was observed after 90 min of incubation, at which time the NBT scores of adult cells incubated in neonatal plasma were similar to the results of tests performed on whole neonatal blood. It is concluded that neonatal leucocytes demonstrate efficient spontaneous and stimulated phagocytosis, and that there are, in the plasma of neonates, humoral factors which stimulate phagocytosis by neutrophils and are thus responsible for the false positive NBT test results observed in these subjects.
THE EFFECTIVENESS OF PHENOBARBITAL IN THE PREVENTION OF RECURRENT FEBRILE CONVULSIONS IN CHILDREN WITH AND WITHOUT A HISTORY OF PRE‐, PERI‐ AND POSTNATAL ABNORMALITIES
Authors: WOLF SHELDON MARK
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Three hundred children who had an initial febrile convulsion were divided into two groups. In one group were children with a single brief generalized initial febrile seizure and no history of pre‐, peri‐ or postnatal abnormalities which might suggest the possibility of brain damage and in the other group those with such abnormalities and/or a “severe” initial febrile convulsion. Daily phenobarbital produced a significant decrease in febrile seizure recurrences in both groups, as compared to children who received phenobarbital at the onset of fever and no phenobarbital prophylaxis. “Intermittent” phenobarbital given at the onset of fever did not produce a significant difference in recurrence rate as compared with no phenobarbital.
SHORT COLON MALFORMATION WITH IMPERFORATE ANUS
Authors: SINGH AJMER , SINGH RAVINDER , SINGH AMARJIT
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Ten cases of a rare high anorectal malformation associated with short colon are presented. The significance of a large gas fluid level (occupying more than half of the abdominal cavity on invertogram) is stressed for pre‐operative diagnosis. Terminal colostomy or ileostomy with disconnection of colo‐vesical/colo‐vaginal fistula has been considered the only adequate therapy. Associated congenital malformations have been responsible for high mortality in these patients.
STUDIES ON MATURITY IN NEWBORN INFANTS IX. Further Observations on the Use of External Characteristics in Estimating Gestational Age
Authors: FINNSTRÖM ORVAR
Published: January 2008

Abstract. A simple method for assessing maturity based on 8 external characteristics has previously been described. Some new results with the use of this method are now presented. The precision in estimating gestational age is sufficiently good, more than 95% of the infants were correctly estimated within ±3 weeks. Reducing the criteria to seven and thereby excluding the ophthalmoscopic examination did not significantly change the precision of the estimation. The examination based on external characteristics is a very simple and useful method for maturity assessment, even in sick newborn infants. Tables for transforming maturity score into gestational age are presented.
BILIRUBIN INHIBITS HEXOSE‐MONOPHOSPHATE SHUNT ACTIVITY OF PHAGOCYTOSING NEUTROPHILS
Authors: THONG Y. H. , RENCIS V.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Neutrophil hexose monophosphate (H.M.P.) shunt activity was measured by the conversion of 14C‐1‐glucose to 14CO2 during ingestion of polystyrene latex particles. Unconjugated bilirubin at the concentration of 1×105 M was found to markedly inhibit H.M.P. shunt activity. Since H.M.P. shunt activity of neutrophils is an important prerequisite of microbicidal function, it is suggested that jaundiced newborns may be more susceptible to bacterial infections.
TRISOMY 20 MOSAICISM
Authors: CARBONELL X. , CABALLIN M. R. , RUBIO A. , EGOZCUE J.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. The first known case of trisomy 20 mosaicism is described. As in other cases of (partial) trisomy 20, the patient showed scarce physical malformations. It is suggested that trisomies for chromosomes of the F group are rare not because they are lethal but as a result of the morphology of the chromosomes involved.
PHYLOGENY OF INSULIN:Some Evolutionary Aspects of Insulin Production with Particular Regard to the Biosynthesis of Insulin in Myxine glutinosa
Authors: EMDlN STEFAN O. , FALKMER STURE
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Preceding phylogenetic studies on the occurrence of insulin have shown—e.g. by bioassays and immunocytochemical procedure—that insulin producing B‐cells are present in all vertebrates and even in several invertebrates, both protostomian and deuterostomian. The most original B‐cells are obviously endocrine cells of open type, situated in the mucosa of the alimentary tract. Moreover, the results of these studies show that insulin is not only a polypeptide hormone of considerable age but also that the insulin molecule seems to have been kept surprisingly stable during evolution. Best known of all non‐mammalian insulins is that from the hagfish, Myxine glutinosa. It is probably the most original insulin of all in the vertebrate series. Both the amino‐acid sequence and the three‐dimensional structure of the dimer of hagfish insulin differ only little from those of pig insulin. The biosynthesis occurs via proinsulin and is also in most respects similar to mammalian insulin biosynthesis. There are, however, some differences. Although it readily crystallizes as tetragonal bipyramids, hagfish insulin does not form hexamers. In a test system, with isolated rat fat cells, its binding afilnity is 23% and its potency 5 % of that of pig insulin, a discrepancy indicating a “partial antagonism” on the receptors. Although the conversion of proinsulin to insulin seems to occur in the secretion granules, they contain no crystalline cores. Since a strictly tryptic‐like enzyme was found to destroy hagfish insulin rapidly, the enzyme converting proinsulin to insulin must‐in addition to a carboxy‐peptidase‐B‐like activity‐have a different specificity in Myxine.
INSULIN ANTIBODIES IN THE SERUM OF DIABETIC CHILDREN TREATED FROM THE DIAGNOSIS OF THE DISEASE WITH HIGHLY PURIFIED INSULINS
Authors: ÅKERBLOM HANS K. , MÄKELÄ ANNA‐LIISA
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Fitly‐one diabetic children, treated with highly purified, porcine insulins from the diagnosis of the disease were studied for the development of insulin antibodies during the first years of treatment. Sera were obtained before the start of treatment and at repeated intervals thereafter. Serum insulin antibodies were measured by three methods in three laboratories. Twenty‐nine children were treated with R.I. (rare immunogenic) insulins at one department and 22 with MC (monocomponent) insulins at the other department. Before the start of treatment, serum insulin antibodies were almost invariably zero or below the limit of detection. During the first year a considerable number of cases, more than that reported for adults, formed detectable amounts of antibodies, and more so in the R.I. than in the MC series. The levels were however definitely lower than those observed with the Same methods in diabetic children on conventional insulins. Analysis of variance showed no differences between the various age groups. No significant correlation was found between the highest titre of serum insulin antibodies on the one hand and insulin dose or glucosuria on the other hand. The results confirm the concept that children form antibodies to insulin more actively than adults.
THE USE OF INSULIN IN THE TREATMENT OF JUVENILE ONSET DIABETES
Authors: LARSSON Y.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Insulin is a major tool in the treatment of juvenile onset diabetes in spite of the impassibility of giving it in a physiological way. Dosage must be individualized with the help of mixing short‐ and longacting types of non‐immunogenic insulin preparations. Procedures vary with the stage of the disease, whether at the onset of diabetes, during the remission period or thereafter. Rapid normalization of blood and urine sugar is recommended in the first stage, which may partly preserve beta cell function. After the first two years of diabetes practically all patients require insulin twice daily. To achieve satisfactory metabolic control in diabetic teenagers is difficult and requires an experienced team of paediatricians, nurses, dietitians, psychologists and teachers, as well as informed, motivated and cooperative patients.
TREATMENT OF DIABETIC COMA IN CHILDREN
Authors: AKERBLOM HANS K.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. A short review is given on current aspects of the low‐dose insulin therapy of diabetic ketoacidosis, and briefly on the other aspects of the treatment. Frequent intramuscular administration of low doses of regular insulin leads to plasma insulin concentrations, sufficient for maximal insulin biologic activity. The intravenous and subcutaneous routes of insulin administration are suitable as well in the low‐dose insulin therapy. The author described results from a retrospective study comparing the efficacy of large and small insulin doses in the treatment of diabetic precoma and coma in children (1). The i.m. administration of insulin, 0.5 U/kg initially, followed by 0.25 U/kg at intervals of 1/22 hours led to as rapid disappearance of the signs and symptoms of ketoacidosis as with previously used larger insulin doses. The tendency to hypoglycemia and hypokalemia was milder with the smaller insulin dose. With such a modified low‐dose insulin therapy it is essential to initiate i.v. glucose administration rather early. The responsiveness to insulin may vary from one child to another, and infections may increase the need for insulin. Therefore, careful individual monitoring of the treatment is important even when using the low‐dose insulin therapy.
ASYMPTOMATIC DIABETES IN CHILDHOOD AND ADOLESCENCE
Authors: HÄGER A.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. An account is given of the present conception of asymptomatic (chemical) diabetes in the pediatric age group, which also has been named MODY (maturity‐onset type of diabetes of young people). Long‐term studies show that about 10% will eventually decompensate to overt diabetes. In contrast to classical juvenile‐onset type of diabetes the inheritance of MODY seems to be autosomal dominant in many cases. Some authors have suggested that insulin resistance exists in non‐obese patients with asymptomatic diabetes, but this view is not supported by observations of the author. Obese patients should reduce their body fat, but other therapeutic approaches are difficult to evaluate because of the normal fluctuation of the disease. There is no general agreement in the literature concerning the value of insulin treatment. The author supports the view that insulin treatment should be started in the late stages of chemical diabetes just before symptomatic disease emerges. In the long run this approach may ameliorate the condition due to the preservation of some beta‐cell function for long periods. An unsettled question is whether early insulin treatment in asymptomatic diabetes will delay diabetic vascular complications.
INFLUENCE OF DIABETES ON METABOLISM OF VASCULAR SMOOTH MUSCLE
Authors: ARNQVIST HANS J.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Glucose utilization and the conversion of glucose to lactate, CO2, glycogen and lipids are decreased in the aorta from diabetic rats and rabbits. In addition the incorporation of amino acid into protein is reduced in diabetic rat aorta. The metabolic changes produced by diabetes are counteracted by insulin treatment, but there is a time lag of about 2 days before the effect of insulin treatment appears. The membrane transport of glucose in smooth muscle is carried out by a specific transport system of the facilitated diffusion type. A rate limiting influence of membrane transport on glucose metabolism is found in bovine mesenteric arteries and rabbit colon smooth muscle. In these preparations the influence of glucose concentrations on glucose metabolism is most pronounced in the range 0–11.1 mmol exhibiting saturation at higher glucose concentrations. Insulin in a high concentration (0.1 U/ml) has acute (≤3 h) metabolic effects in vitro on smooth muscle which are qualitatively similar to those in skeletal muscle, but are weaker and appear later. The threshold concentration for the acute metabolic effects of insulin on smooth muscle in vitro is 10–100 times above the physiological levels, indicating a low acute sensitivity to insulin.
Introduction
Authors: Fomon Samuel J. , Ziegler Ekhard E. , Filer Lloyd J. , Anderson Thomas A. , Edwards Barbara B. , Nelson Steven E.
Published: January 2008

Of 178 normal breastfed infants enrolled during the first 9 days of life, 129 (59 males and 70 females) completed the planned period of observation to 112 days of age. Limited amounts of formula and beikost were permitted and intakes of these foods were determined. Length and weight were measured at standardized ages and blood for serum chemical determinations was obtained.

Data from this study were combined with similar data published (1) previously. Thus, data are now available concerning 117 males and 116 females. Means, standard deviations and percentile values, including 5th and 95th percentile values, for length and weight at. tained and for rates of gain in length and weight between various ages are presentedMeans and percentile values for intake of calo. ries from formula and beikost and for serum chemical values are presented. In instances where analysis of variance indicated statis. tically significant effects of age and/or sex serum chemical values have been tabulated or an age‐ and/or sex‐specific basis.
IMMUNODEFICIENCY IN DOWN'S SYNDROME
Authors: UGAZIO A. G. , LANZAVECCHIA A. , JAYAKAR S. , PLEBANI A. , DUSE M. , BURGIO G. R.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. “Natural” antibody titres to E, coli O antigens of different serotypes and to rabbit red blood cells were determined in 86 subjects with Down's syndrome and 79 mentally retarded but chromosomally normal controls ranging in age from 10 months to 52 years. Subjects in the two groups were matched for sex, age and socio‐environmental conditions. Titres of both antibodies, assessed by haemagglutination, were significantly lower in subjects with DS in the 1 to 5 year old group. E. coli antibodies transiently increased to normal values in subjects with DS during the second 5 years of life, thereafter rapidly declining to levels significantly lower than those observed in controls. The titres of antibodies to rabbit erythrocytes in subjects with Down's syndrome showed a more variable course transiently approaching normal values in the 7–10 year group and after 20 years of age. These data are interpreted as further evidence for the existence of a congenital immunodeficiency in Down's syndrome.
EVALUATION OF THREE SPIROMETERS ON HEALTHY CHILDREN
Authors: DALÉN GUNNAR , KJELLMAN BENGT
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. Two electronic spirometers (Dräger Spirotron and Monaghan M403) and one wedge bellows spirometer (Vitalograph) were compared with a Bernstein spirometer. Healthy children, 30 girls and 31 boys, were investigated. The regression lines of VC and FEV1.0 in relation to the body height to the third power are very close and the S.D. values around the lines are very similar. The correlation coefficients of the regression lines are high for all the spirometers. An analysis of the paired differences showed slight differences of the mean values. The S.D. of paired differences was for VC 4.6–6.6% and for FEV1.0 4.8‐6.2%. The PEFR values obtained by the two electronic spirometers deviated substantially and highly significantly from the values obtained by the Wright peak flow meter.
SERUM FERRITIN IN ASSESSMENT OF IRON NUTRITION IN HEALTHY INFANTS
Authors: SAARINEN U. M. , SIIMES M. A.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. We followed up 238 infants on 7 occasions during their first year of life. The diets of the infants were systematically either supplemented or not supplemented with iron. Developmental changes in serum ferritin were determined from a group with adequate intake of iron and without evidence of iron deficiency by three laboratory criteria: hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume and transferrin saturation. The data indicate that the average level of serum ferritin correlates well with iron nutrition within groups of infants since the developmental changes are in accordance with the known changes in storage iron, the level of serum ferritin correlates with iron intake, and low ferritin levels are associated with lower transferrin saturation. The usefulness of serum ferritin as the sole criterion of iron deficiency in individual infants is limited, suggesting the use of more than one indicator to refine the diagnosis of iron deficiency without anemia.
TWO FORMS OF CUTIS LAXA PRESENTING IN THE NEWBORN PERIOD
Authors: AGHA A. , SAKATI N. O. , HIGGINBOTTOM M. C. , JONES K. L. , BAY C. , NYHAN W. L.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. Two infants are described with congenital cutis laxa. They represent two distinct disorders. In the first, congenital cutis laxa is associated with a generalized disorder of elastic tissue in which there may be diaphragmatic or other hernias, diverticula of the gastrointestinal or urinary tract and infantile emphysema. The disease is fatal often within the first year. In the second, congenital cutis laxa is associated with widely patent anterior fontanel, a variety of malformations, and retarded growth and development. Recognition of these distinct syndromes in the newborn period and their recessive inheritance permit realistic discussion of the prognosis which is very different from the benign dominant forms of cutis laxa.
EFFICACY OF ZOSTER IMMUNOGLOBULIN IN PROPHYLAXIS OF VARICELLA IN HIGH‐RISK PATIENTS
Authors: WINSNES RANDI
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. During a period of 2 1/2 years 190 children have been prophylactically treated with zoster immunoglobulin in Norway. Information on 130 (68%) of these children was obtained. This group included patients suffering from leukemia, lymphoma, and other malignant disorders, and patients with autoimmune diseases, with impaired immune mechanisms or with for other reasons increased frequency of infections, as well as premature and weak newborns, and infants born to mothers who developed varicella during the last 4 days before delivery. Of the patients who received zoster immunoglobulin within 3 days after exposure, 2.9% developed weak symptoms of varicella. When zoster immunoglobulin was administered 4–5 days after exposure, 37.5% contracted varicella, and when given more than 5 days after exposure, 50% developed the disease. The 9 neonates with possible intrauterine exposure are not included in these figures.
ELECTROLYTES IN NAILS ANALYSED BY X‐RAY MICROANALYSIS IN ELECTRON MICROSCOPY Considerations on a New Method for the Diagnosis of Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: ROOMANS G. M. , AFZELIUS B. A. , KOLLBERG H. , FORSLIND B.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) have an increased concentration of sodium in their nails. Hitherto, only neutron activation analysis has been considered for the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis by analysis of electrolytes in nails. It has been thoroughly tested methodologically and clinically. However, the intrinsic advantages of X‐ray microanalysis and the results obtained in this study suggest that this method, after further testing, may be a useful diagnostic aid for cystic fibrosis. In comparison with neutron activation analysis, X‐ray micro‐analysis has the advantage of simultaneously giving the concentrations of several elements and may be accessible at any hospital with an electron microscope fitted with the necessary equipment. Nails of CF‐patients are here shown to have increased concentrations of Na, K and Cl, which will make the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis more reliable. The possibility of using sulphur as a reference element may eliminate the weighing procedure necessary in neutron activation analysis.
IMMUNOSUPPRESSIVE MEASLES ENCEPHALOPATHY
Authors: PEDERSEN F. KARUP , SCHIØTZ P. O. , VALERIUS N. H. , HERTZ H.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. A Case of measles infection without a rash, which was followed by a severe encephalopathy after two months, is described in a 2½ year old boy. At the age of 8 months he had been irradiated for an inoperable intrathoracic neuroblastoma, and at the time of exposure to measles he was being treated with cyclophosphamide and vincristine. This case closely resembles other cases recently described and termed immunosuppressive measles encephalopathy. The syndrome is believed to represent the effect of measles virus in patients with deficient cellular immunity induced by antineoplastic treatment. The importance of protecting children on immunosuppressive treatment from contracting measles is stressed.
HYPOPHYSO‐GONADAL FUNCTION IN THE DIABETIC CHILD
Authors: CICOGNANI A. , ZAPPULLA F. , BERNARDI F. , CAPELLI M. , MAZZANTI L. , TURCHI S. , RADETTI G. , PIRAZZOLI P. , CACCIARI E.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. 14 diabetic boys (five with a family history of diabetes and nine without) and 29 “short normal” boys were studied. A gonadal function test (2.000 IU of hCG i.m. for 3 days and plasma testosterone assay before and after the hCG administration) as well as an LH‐RH test (50 μg i.v.) were carried out. While basal testosterone level turned out to be similar in the two groups of children, it was significantly lower (p<0.01) after hCG than the mean value of the control group. This difference was mainly observed in those patients with a family history of diabetes. In the diabetic children, basal LH level was normal and the pituitary LH reserve was lower than in the control group. Both basal FSH level and FSH pituitary reserve were lower than in normal children. These data show that an alteration in the hypothalamus‐pituitary‐gonadal function is already evident in the diabetic child.
ANO‐RECTAL MANOMETRY IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF HIRSCHSPRUNG'S DISEASE IN INFANTS
Authors: FRENCKNER B.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. Manometric recordings of internal sphincter activity were performed during distension of the rectum in 10 healthy control infants and in 9 infants with clinical signs of Hirschsprung's disease. In 8 of the healthy infants relaxations of the internal sphincter were obtained, which were maximal 4 to 7 secs after rectal distension. This was also the case in S of the patients who were later proven not to have Hirschsprung's disease. In 3 patients no relaxations of the internal sphincter could be recorded. Subsequent rectal biopsy revealed absence of ganglion cells, confirming the diagnosis Hirschsprung's disease. The remaining 3 infants (2 controls and 1 patient) could not be calmed during the examination and the results were inconclusive. It is concluded that ano‐rectal manometry is a valuable method of examination in the diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease in infants. No false results were obtained in this study. Furthermore, it is an easy procedure without risk or discomfort for the patient.
STUDIES ON A PATIENT WITH IN VIVO EVIDENCE OF TYPE I GLYCOGENOSIS AND NORMAL ENZYME ACTIVITIES IN VITRO
Authors: CHALMERS R. A. , RYMAN BRENDA E. , WATTS R. W. E.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. Biochemical and clinical studies on a patient with hepatic glycogen storage disease are reported. The patient showed many of the clinical and biochemical features of type I glycogenosis (glucose‐6‐phosphatase deficiency), but had normal activities of the following enzymes in liver tissue: glucose‐6‐phosphatase (EC3.1.3.9); amylo‐1,6‐glucosidase (EC3.2.1.33); glycogen phosphorylase (EC2.4.1.1); fructose‐1,6‐diphosphatase (EC3.1.3.11). The urinary excretion of 2‐oxoglutaric acid was greatly increased in this patient and in a case of enzymologically proven type I glycogenosis. Abnormal 2‐oxoglutaric aciduria has not been previously reported in the glycogen storage diseases. The results are discussed in relation to the possible nature of the underlying biochemical defect in patients of this type.
MALIGNANT HISTIOCYTOSIS Histiocytic Medullary Reticulosis
Authors: RUUSKANEN O. , K.ERO P. , RAJAMÄKI A. , EKFORS T. , VILKKI P. , NORDMAN E.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. Three cases of malignant histiocytosis occurring in children aged 2 months, 10 months and 14 years, are described. In all children the diagnosis was based on anaemia, granulocytopenia or thrombocytopenia, splenomegaly and marked erythrophagocytosis by bone marrow and lymph node atypical histiocytes. Two children aged 10 months and 14 years, underwent splenectomy after which combined chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, vincristine and prednisone (COP) was started. In the older child a complete remission was achieved. The younger child died soon after the onset of the treatment. The youngest child was treated with bleomycin, adriamycin, cyclophosphamide, vincristine and prednisone (BACOP). He died of pneumonia and sepsis two months after the start of the treatment.
LONG‐TERM EFFECT OF PREVIOUS SWIMTRAINING IN GIRLS. A 10‐YEAR FOLLOW‐UP OF THE “GIRL SWIMMERS”
Authors: ERIKSSON B. O. , ENGSTRÖM I. , KARLBERG P. , LUNDIN A. , SALTIN B. , THORÉN C.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. Thirty girls, studied in 1961 after 2.5 years of intensive swimtraining, were the subject of a follow‐up for ten years. When last examined, seven and ten years after the original study, all the girls had given up swimtraining. The increased values for vital capacity observed in 1961 remained unchanged, but residual volume, functional residual capacity and total lung capacity showed small increases even after corrections for body growth. Such increases are, however, normal in these years. Heart volume which was high originally, was found to be lower ten years later, although mean values were still higher than normal. The decrease seen from 1961 to 1971 could mainly be ascribed to a decrease in the subjects with the largest hearts originally. Both total hemoglobin and blood volume decreased to normal values in relation to body size. Maximal oxygen uptake, though, fell from 2.80 1/min (51.4 ml/kg × min) to 2.18 1/min (36.4 ml/kg × min) ten years later. It is suggested that the functional capacity of the cardiovascular system declined more markedly than its dimensions.
SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT WITH CPAP OF TWO INFANTS WITH BRONCHOMALACIA
Authors: NEIJENS H. J. , KERREBIJN K. F. , SMALHOUT B.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. Two children with severe bronchial collapse secondary to bronchomalacia improved dramatically after institution of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Treatment was discontinued after 14 weeks without reappearance of symptoms. Repeated bronchoscopy revealed a diminution in the bronchial collapsibility. It is suggested that CPAP should be given if generalised bronchomalacia is present to tide the children over a bad period while the bronchus is becoming more stable.
PLASMA FREE AMINO ACID LEVELS DURING THE INITIAL REHABILITATION OF PROTEIN‐ENERGY MALNUTRITION WITH PROTRACTED DIARRHOEA USING A FREE AMINO ACID‐GLUCOSE DIET
Authors: LINDBLAD B. S. , RAHIMTOOLA RAZIA J. , AHMAD S. SHAMIM , FANCY K.HURSHID , SINGHA LILY , HUSSAIN S. SAJJAD
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. This study intends to assess, by ion‐exchange chromatography of free amino acid levels of peripheral blood plasma, the amino acid absorption of severely growth retarded infants with protracted diarrhoea, during the initial period of rehabilitation. Eleven infants from a very low socio‐economic group of a developing country, with nutritional marasmic growth retardation and prolonged diarrhoea, were treated for a period of 10 days with a commercially available free amino acid–glucose diet (Vivonex®, Pfrimmer Co., Erlangen, Germany). Excessive hyperprolinaemia characterized the plasma aminogram before treatment. After initial rehabilitation with this diet, the plasma analyses showed very low branch‐chained and cystine levels, and marginally high alanine, glycine, and proline levels. It seemed that the free amino acids could not be absorbed quickly enough to meet with the high supply of glucose. Furthermore, this investigation supports the assumption that cystine is an essential amino acid in malnourished infants. In spite of normal or high human growth hormone levels, somatomedin was not detectable in pooled samples from these severely growth retarded infants.
CHILDHOOD CANCER IN SWEDEN, 1958–1974
Authors: ERICSSON J. L.‐E. , KARNSTRÖM L. , MATTSSON BRITTA
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. All cases of tumours and tumour‐like conditions in children 0–14 years reported to the Swedish cancer registry during the period 1958–74 have been studied. The material consists of 3797 individuals on file in this registry. The most common cancer diagnoses in children 0–14 years are leukemia and tumours of the central nervous system (together constituting approximately 58% of all cases). Almost half of the cancers affect children below five years of age. The lowest incidence occurs in the ages 7–8 years, and the highest during the first year of life. The types of tumours below one year of age show a different distribution than in other age groups. A significant increase in the incidence of childhood cancer occurred, while the mortality rates showed a slight decrease during the period studied. A remarkable increase in the incidence figures was noted concerning tumours of the nervous system, especially in boys. The decrease in the mortality rates was most obvious regarding Wilms' tumour, and leukemia in children 0–4 years of age.
FREQUENCY OF PSYCHOTROPIC DRUG PRESCRIBING FOR CHILDREN IN TAMPERE, FINLAND
Authors: KREULA ERIKA , HEMMINKI ELINA
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. The purpose of the present study was to determine the frequency with which psychotropic drugs are prescribed for children under 10 years of age in outpatient care in Finland. This frequency was estimated from the reimbursements paid by the Social Insurance Office of Tampere City in 1974. Every third psychotropic drug prescribed for children born in 1965–74 was included. This resulted in 319 children with 375 psychotropic drug prescriptions. About 4% of children under 10 years old in the Tampere area had received within one year's time one or more psychotropic drugs in outpatient care. About half of the psychotropic drugs were prescribed by general practitioners. Sedatives were the most frequently prescribed drugs, especially in the younger age groups. Antidepressants and antiepileptics were common in the older age groups. The most commonly specified indications were fever and restlessness.
ON CEREBRAL INFARCTION IN CHILDHOOD AND ADOLESCENCE
Authors: BLENNOW G. , CRONQVIST S. , HINDFELT B. , NILSSON O.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. This report is based on a retrospective analysis of clinical and angiographic findings in 14 children and adolescents suffering from cerebral infarction. They were all examined during the acute stage and selective angiography was performed within a day or two of the stroke. Pathogenesis is discussed and focuses particularly on the occurrence of segmental arteritis from unknown (infectious?) aetiology.
PHYSICAL HEALTH OF TEN‐YEAR‐OLD CHILDREN An Epidemiological Study of School Children and a Follow‐up of Previous Health Care
Authors: KORNFÄLT RAGNHILD , KÖHLER LENNART
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. At 10 years of age, all 223 children in a school district underwent a physical examination and a screening for vision and hearing defects within the school health services. The purpose of the study was to detect health problems of importance for the day‐to‐day functioning of the child. In 26.1% significant deviations were found. Physical disorders comprised 11.7%, visual defects 11.7% and auditory impairment 2.7%. The vast majority of significant health problems were previously known and in only 4.4% of the 223 children newly detected, 0.9% by the physical examination, 2.7% by the vision screening and 0.9% by the auditory screening. The most frequent health problem of all was allergy in 13.5%, in 5.4% regarded as functionally important. Minor orthopaedic deviations and motor disturbances were common but not often considered to affect the functioning of the child significantly. As a whole, the children's health was very good and the outcome of the physical examination at this age was not impressive. It is evident that the physician's role in the school health system needs to be reconsidered.
SYNOVECTOMY AS A PROPHYLACTIC MEASURE IN RECURRENT HAEMOPHILIC HAEMARTHROSIS Follow‐up of 23 Cases
Authors: SNEPPEN O. , BECK H. , HOLSTEEN V.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. Because of frequently recurring haemarthrosis which could not be controlled by conservative management 19 haemophiliacs were subjected to synovectomy on a total of 23 joints—17 knees, S elbows, and 1 hip. The patients were followed for an average of 23 months. Primary postoperative complications occurred, in the form of recurrent bleeding, in 8 joints. Rehabilitation was often difficult and long‐lasting, and the range of joint motion was essentially restricted in 4 cases. After a follow‐up period exceeding 6 months the findings in the remaining, mobile 19 synovectomized joints were: 12 had been relieved of haemorrhage, 5 had rare and two frequent haemorrhages. The reduction in the number of haemorrhages was significant (p<0.01). In the light of the complicated postoperative course it is concluded that synovectomy should be used only on strict indications, viz. only in otherwise intractable cases of progressing haemophilic arthropathy.
WHO COLLABORATIVE STUDY ON BREAST FEEDING
Authors: HOFVANDER Y. , PETROS‐BARVAZIAN A.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. WHO, concerned with the declining breast feeding rate in developing countries, has organized investigations in nine different countries of different aspects of breast feeding and breast milk with the ultimate aim of formulating programmes of intervention. The basic epidemiological study on 24 000 mother/child pairs is just completed and some preliminary data are reported on the pattern of breast feeding in the three studied socio‐economic groups—urban elite, urban poor and traditional rural—which differ significantly in their breast feeding rate as well as in the pattern of return of menstruation in breast‐feeding and non‐breast‐feeding mothers.
OESOPHAGEAL VARICES AS A LATE COMPLICATION TO NEONATAL UMBILICAL VEIN CATHETERIZATION
Authors: LAURIDSEN U. BIRK , ENK B. , GAMMELTOFT A.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. Three recent cases are presented. Haematemesis in children with splenomegalia and a history of neonatal umbilical vein catheterization should involve careful examination for oesophageal varices due to portal hypertension.
OSTEOMYELITIS OF THE PUBIS
Authors: HELDRICH F. , HARRIS V.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Heldrich, F. J. and Harris, V. C. (Departments of Pediatrics, St. Agnes Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, USA). Osteomyelitis of the pubis. Acta Paediatr Scand, 67: 39, 1979.—Three cases of osteomyelitis of the pubis are presented and the clinical and laboratory features summarized. A review of the literature revealed 49 cases and emphasizes the rarity of this location for acute primary osteomyelitis.
S‐IgA CHOLERA TOXIN AND ROTAVIRUS ANTIBODY IN HUMAN COLOSTRUM
Authors: SIMHON ALBERTO , YOLKEN ROBERT H. , MATA LEONARDO
Published: January 2008

Abstract. S‐IgA antibodies against cholera toxin and rotavirus were assayed in 43 colostral samples by means of an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). All specimens contained specific S‐IgA antibodies against both antigens. Significant antibody titres to the antigens were demonstrated in almost all colostral samples.