bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety and tolerability of intravenous immunoglobulin infusion in Down syndrome regression disorder
Authors: Santoro Jonathan D. , Jafarpour Saba , Khoshnood Mellad M. , Boyd Natalie K. , Vogel Benjamin N. , Nguyen Lina , Saucier Laura E. , Partridge Rebecca , Tiongson Emmanuelle , Ramos‐Platt Leigh , Nagesh Deepti , Ho Eugenia , Rosser Tena , Ahsan Nusrat , Mitchell Wendy G. , Rafii Michael S.
Published: January 2024

Three large multi‐center studies have identified the clinical utility of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) in the treatment of Down syndrome regression disorder (DSRD). Yet the tolerability of infusions in individuals with DS and the safety of IVIg remains unknown in this population. This study sought to evaluate the safety and tolerability of IVIg in individuals with DSRD compared to a real‐world cohort of individuals with pediatric onset neuroimmunologic disorders. A single‐center, retrospective chart review evaluating clinically documented infusion reactions was performed for individuals meeting international consensus criteria for DSRD and having IVIg infusions between 2019 and 2023. Infusion reactions were evaluated for severity and need for alterations in infusion plan. This cohort was compared against an age and sex matched cohort of children with neuroimmunologic conditions who had also received IVIg infusions. In total, 127 individuals with DSRD and 186 individuals with other neuroimmunologic disorders were enrolled. There was no difference in the overall rate of adverse reactions (AEs) between the DSRD and general neuroimmunology cohorts (p = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.80–2.00), but cardiac‐related AEs specifically were more common among the DSRD group (p = 0.02, 95% CI: 1.23–17.54). When AEs did occur, there was no difference in frequency of pharmacologic intervention (p = 0.12, 95% CI: 0.34–1.13) or discontinuation of therapy (p = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.06–7.44). There was a higher incidence of lab abnormalities on IVIG among the general neuroimmunology cohort (p = 0.03, 95% CI: 0.24–0.94) compared to the DSRD cohort. Transaminitis was the most common laboratory abnormality in the DSRD group. In a large cohort of individuals with DSRD, there were no significant differences in the safety and tolerability of IVIg compared to a cohort of children and young adults with neuroimmunologic conditions.
Novel avenues of tau research
Authors: Sexton Claire E. , Bitan Gal , Bowles Kathryn R. , Brys Miroslaw , Buée Luc , Maina Mahmoud Bukar , Clelland Claire D. , Cohen Ann D. , Crary John F. , Dage Jeffrey L. , Diaz Kristophe , Frost Bess , Gan Li , Goate Alison M , Golbe Lawrence I. , Hansson Oskar , Karch Celeste M. , Kolb Hartmuth C. , La Joie Renaud , Lee Suzee E. , Matallana Diana , Miller Bruce L. , Onyike Chiadi U. , Quiroz Yakeel T. , Rexach Jessica E. , Rohrer Jonathan D. , Rommel Amy , Sadri‐Vakili Ghazaleh , Schindler Suzanne E. , Schneider Julie A. , Sperling Reisa A. , Teunissen Charlotte E. , Weninger Stacie C. , Worley Susan L. , Zheng Hui , Carrillo Maria C.
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION

The pace of innovation has accelerated in virtually every area of tau research in just the past few years.

METHODS

In February 2022, leading international tau experts convened to share selected highlights of this work during Tau 2022, the second international tau conference co‐organized and co‐sponsored by the Alzheimer's Association, CurePSP, and the Rainwater Charitable Foundation.

RESULTS

Representing academia, industry, and the philanthropic sector, presenters joined more than 1700 registered attendees from 59 countries, spanning six continents, to share recent advances and exciting new directions in tau research.

DISCUSSION

The virtual meeting provided an opportunity to foster cross‐sector collaboration and partnerships as well as a forum for updating colleagues on research‐advancing tools and programs that are steadily moving the field forward.
Solvation Structure and Derived Interphase Tuning for High‐Voltage Ni‐Rich Lithium Metal Batteries with High Safety Using Gem‐Difluorinated Ionic Liquid Based Dual‐Salt Electrolytes
Authors: Li Yixing , Ding Fangwei , Shao Yueyue , Wang Hongyu , Guo Xiaolong , Liu Chang , Sui Xulei , Sun Gang , Zhou Jia , Wang Zhenbo
Published: January 2024

Stabilizing electrolytes for high‐voltage lithium metal batteries (LMBs) is crucial yet challenging, as they need to ensure stability against both Li anodes and high‐voltage cathodes (above 4.5 V versus Li/Li+), addressing issues like poor cycling and thermal runaway. Herein, a novel gem‐difluorinated skeleton of ionic liquid (IL) is designed and synthesized, and its non‐flammable electrolytes successfully overcome aforementioned challenges. By creatively using dual salts, fluorinated ionic liquid and dimethyl carbonate as a co‐solvent, the solvation structure of Li+ ions is efficiently controlled through electrostatic and weak interactions that are well unveiled and illuminated via nuclear magnetic resonance spectra. The as‐prepared electrolytes exhibit high security avoiding thermal runaway and show excellent compatibility with high‐voltage cathodes. Besides, the solvation structure derives a robust and stable F‐rich interphase, resulting in high reversibility and Li‐dendrite prevention. LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2/Li LMBs (4.5 V) demonstrate excellent long‐term stability with a high average Coulombic efficiency (CE) of at least 99.99 % and a good capacity retention of 90.4 % over 300 cycles, even can work at a higher voltage of 4.7 V. Furthermore, the ultrahigh Ni‐rich LiNi0.88Co0.09Mn0.03O2/Li system also delivers excellent electrochemical performance, highlighting the significance of fluorinated IL‐based electrolyte design and enhanced interphasial chemistry in improving battery performance.
Oligomer composition and content in regenerated PA6 fiber and its effect on properties
Authors: Wang Yongjun , Guo Yintao , Zhong Shuimi , Lin Qisong , Gao Feng , Chen Wenxing , Lu Wangyang
Published: January 2024

The preparation process from waste fibers to regenerated fibers is an environmental significance work. In this work, liquid chromatography/time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry, advanced polymer chromatography/multi‐angle laser‐light‐scattering/refractive index detector, and two‐dimensional wide‐angle X‐ray diffractometry were employed to characterize the polycaprolactam(PA6) fibers above oligomers composition and content, molecular weight and distribution, crystallization and orientation, and analyzing the changes in mechanical properties. The total content of oligomers in physical and chemical regenerated PA6 fiber is 2.084 wt% and 1.812 wt%, individually, which is higher than that in waste PA6 fiber. And the oligomer content of C1–C4 (cyclic monomer, cyclic dimer, cyclic trimer, and cyclic tetramer) in the regenerated PA6 fiber is higher than that of waste PA6 fiber. The regenerated PA6 fiber sample contains more low‐molecular‐weight substances, making it easier to form crystal nuclei and crystallize. During the dyeing process of the regenerated PA6 fiber, the γ crystal transformed into α crystal. The tensile strength of physical and chemical regenerated PA6 fiber is lower than that of waste PA6 fiber. And after dyeing, the oligomers content of regenerated PA6 fiber is significantly decreased, especially in C1–C4 oligomer. However, the crystalliniy and orientation of regenerated PA6 fibers were improved, which also leads to the fracture strength increased by about 20% compared to undyed fibers.
Bitter yet beneficial: The dual role of dietary alkaloids in managing diabetes and enhancing cognitive function
Authors: Alkanad Maged , Hani Umme , V Annegowda H , Ghazwani Mohammed , Haider Nazima , Osmani Riyaz Ali M. , M D Pandareesh , Hamsalakshmi  , Bhat Rajeev
Published: January 2024

With the rising prevalence of diabetes and its association with cognitive impairment, interest in the use of dietary alkaloids and other natural products has grown significantly. Understanding how these compounds manage diabetic cognitive dysfunction (DCD) is crucial. This comprehensive review explores the etiology of DCD and the effects of alkaloids in foods and dietary supplements that have been investigated as DCD therapies. Data on how dietary alkaloids like berberine, trigonelline, caffeine, capsaicin, 1‐deoxynojirimycin, nuciferine, neferine, aegeline, tetramethylpyrazine, piperine, and others regulate cognition in diabetic disorders were collected from PubMed, Research Gate, Web of Science, Science Direct, and other relevant databases. Dietary alkaloids could improve memory in behavioral models and modulate the mechanisms underlying the cognitive benefits of these compounds, including their effects on glucose metabolism, gut microbiota, vasculopathy, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress. Evidence suggests that dietary alkaloids hold promise for improving cognition in diabetic patients and could open exciting avenues for future research in diabetes management.
Patients with episodic migraine without aura have an increased rate of delayed discounting
Authors: Wang Lu , Dai Chenyang , Gao Manman , Geng Zhi , Hu Panpan , Wu Xingqi , Wang Kai
Published: January 2024

Objective

This study aimed to explore decision‐making impulsivity and its neural mechanisms in patients with episodic migraine without aura (EMoA).

Background

Previous evidence indicates increased impulsivity and altered reward processing in patients with chronic migraine and medication overuse; however, whether the same holds true for those with EMoA is unclear.

Methods

Patients newly diagnosed with EMoA (n = 51) and healthy controls (HC, n = 45) were recruited. All participants completed delay discounting task, cognitive assessments, a questionnaire for headache profile, and resting‐state function magnetic resonance imaging scans. Resting‐state functional connectivity (RSFC) between the regions of interest and the entire brain was explored.

Results

Patients with EMoA showed a steeper subjective discount rate than HCs (F = 4.74, p = .032), which was positively related to a history of migraines (r = .742, p < .001). RSFC among the ventral striatum (vSTR), ventromedial prefrontal cortex, and occipital cortex was lower in patients with EMoA than in control groups, which was correlated with history (r′ = .294, p = .036) and subjective discount rate (r′ = .380, p = .006). Additionally, discounting rates and RSFC between the vSTR and occipital regions were significantly abnormal in the triptan group than the non‐triptan group. Mediating effect analysis indicated a significant mediating effect in the change in RSFC between the vSTR and occipital status, history of triptan use, and subjective discount rate.

Conclusion

This study further elucidated that an increase in delayed discounting rate exists in patients with EMoA and is related to the abnormality of the value processing network.
Digital visualization in graduate transport phenomena
Authors: Rother Michael
Published: January 2024

The use of contour flood plots and color digital movies is investigated for teaching fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and mass transfer at the first‐year graduate student level. The color visualizations are intended to not only stimulate curiosity but also encourage enthusiasm and determination in learning difficult material. Although there is a significant amount of finite‐difference material, the focus is on analytical solutions. In particular, the mathematical problems involve error functions and Fourier series, which generally prove uninteresting and unpopular. Students are encouraged to produce the visualizations themselves, in addition to being provided with digital results in various forms. Excel can be used to generate both the analytical and finite difference calculations, but Python or another computer language can be employed. While software, such as Matplotlib with Python, Gnuplot, or Tecplot, can create excellent contour flood plots, results from Excel are also good, and Powerpoint will produce movies from individual frames. Student response is positive, although quantifying their reaction is difficult based on the small class sizes. Not surprisingly, the use of color appeals to students and adds to their interest. In addition, students claim increased understanding with contour plots and movies, but the visualizations should be used in conjunction with more traditional graphs, perhaps augmented with consistent use of color. However, the impact on motivation due to color presentation is harder to establish. Interestingly, both graduate and senior undergraduate students showed about equal preference for the rainbow and viridis color palettes.
Scale‐up of electrochemical flow cell towards industrial CO2 reduction to potassium formate
Authors: Fink Arthur G. , Navarro‐Pardo Fabiola , Tavares Jason R. , Legrand Ulrich
Published: January 2024

The CO2 electroreduction reaction (CO2RR) presents a pathway to decarbonize the manufacturing industry by using clean electricity and CO2 as feedstocks instead of relying on fossil fuels. Although known for over 100 years, this technology has yet only been developed at bench‐top scale (1–100 cm2). In this manuscript, we report CO2 electroreduction to potassium formate (HCOOK) in a stack of two 1526‐cm2 three‐compartments electrochemical cells with gas diffusion electrode (GDE) cathodes. In this stack, we achieved over 60 % current selectivity towards HCOOK at current densities of 200 mA cm−2 and under cell voltages of ~4.0 V. We reached these performance metrics by tuning electrolyte composition and cell architecture. We also show that a minimum of +10‐14 kPa of pressure difference must be applied between gaseous and catholyte compartments to enable the CO2RR to take place. We emphasize the challenges associated with scaling‐up a CO2 electrochemical cell, specifically by demonstrating that optimal operation parameters are strongly correlated to cell architecture. This study demonstrates the feasibility of developing CO2RR electrochemical cells to an industrial scale.
Experimental study of hydrophilic additives on filter cake permeability and filtrate losses
Authors: Abed Mohamad Ahmad , Rasaei Mohammad Reza
Published: January 2024

In the past few years, great emphasis has been placed on developing the water‐based mud system in drilling operations because its properties are suitable for the environment and it is a better choice than oil‐ and synthetic‐based muds. Despite research and development in this field, water‐based muds still have filtration issues that lead to drilling problems, and attempts must be continued in this regard. Therefore, this work aims to reduce the filtrate loss of water‐based mud by affecting the drilling cake and making the permeability as low as possible with enhanced properties that resist the filtration of the drilling fluid. Special care was taken to develop suitable mud rheological properties in terms of plastic viscosity, yield point, and gel strength compared to API standards. To this end, some hydrophilic materials were added to the mud, such as thinners (spersene and trisodium phosphate [TSP]) and some polymers (sodium silicate [SS] and poly acryl amide [PAA] (to compare with the basic mud. The results showed that using thinners and polymers without carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and baryte reduced filtrate loss and permeability by a small percentage. On the other hand, adding CMC and baryte to the four additives (spersene, TSP, SS, and PAA) each separately reduced the permeability by 66.1%, 67.7%, 74.1%, and 79%, and reduced filtrate loss by 50.1%, 51.4%, 55.3%, and 58.6%, respectively. It was concluded that adding PAA with CMC and baryte can effectively reduce filtrate losses due to its ability to provide a membrane of low permeability.
Energy harvester reliability study by Gaidai reliability method
Authors: Gaidai Oleg , Sun Jiayao , Wang Fang
Published: January 2024

This study validates a novel structural reliability method, particularly suitable for high‐dimensional green energy harvesting device dynamic systems, versus a well‐established bivariate statistical method, known to accurately predict two‐dimensional system extreme response contours. Classic reliability methods dealing with time series do not always have an advantage of dealing easily with dynamic system high dimensionality, along with complex cross‐correlations among different system components. Energy harvesters constitute an important part of modern offshore green energy engineering; hence, proper experimental study along with safety and reliability analysis are of practical design and engineering importance. To study the performance of galloping energy harvesters, a series of laboratory wind tunnel tests have been conducted, selecting different wind speeds. This study illustrates the usage of the advocated novel reliability method, by analyzing bivariate statistics of experimental galloping energy harvester's dynamics. The bivariate statistics was extracted from available experimental results, more specifically for the device's voltage‐force dataset. Advantage of the proposed methodology being that relatively short experimental data record may still yield meaningful design results, provided proper statistical methods have been applied. Safety and reliability are important engineering concerns for all kinds of green energy devices. In the case of measured device's structural response, an accurate prediction of system failure or damage probability is possible, as illustrated in this study. Distinctive advantage of advocated novel semi‐analytical reliability methodology being the fact that it can tackle dynamic systems with practically unlimited number of dimensions (or components), along with complex nonlinear cross‐correlations between different system key components.
“Within five seconds, I can already see the contradictions and the conflict with society”: Applying the normative conflict model to a collectivist society
Authors: Abboud Armaly Oriana
Published: January 2024

The normative conflict model of dissent predicts how group members will behave when experiencing conflict with the group on a normative basis, as a function of the extent to which they identify with their group. While strongly identified members will dissent and challenge prevailing norms because they have the group's interests in mind, weakly identified members will distance themselves because the group is not important to them. The normative conflict model has so far been empirically examined only in Western populations. The purpose of the present study is to apply the normative conflict model to a collectivist Arab society. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 28 young Arabs, graduates of one of the only alternative schools operating in Arab society in Israel. As students, they were exposed to liberal norms that were very different from the dominant norms in Arab society. The findings show that while dissent is the most common practice that the study participants adopt, some of them also distance themselves from society. As opposed to the model's prediction, those who distance themselves do care about their group and feel they belong to it. Findings also reveal that the severity of social sanctions imposed on dissenters motivates them to conform regardless of the conflict with society. The findings are discussed and interpreted in accordance with the normative conflict model. Further examination of the model in the context of additional non‐Western societies is needed.
Evolving topological order in the postnatal visceral pleura
Authors: Liu Betty S. , Ali Ali B. , Kwan Stacey P. , Pan Jennifer M. , Wagner Willi L. , Khalil Hassan A. , Chen Zi , Ackermann Maximilian , Mentzer Steven J.
Published: January 2024

Background

Changes in epithelial cell shape reflects optimal cell packing and the minimization of surface free energy, but also cell–cell interactions, cell proliferation, and cytoskeletal rearrangements.

Results

Here, we studied the structure of the rat pleura in the first 15 days after birth. After pleural isolation and image segmentation, the analysis demonstrated a progression of epithelial order from postnatal day 1 (P1) to P15. The cells with the largest surface area and greatest shape variability were observed at P1. In contrast, the cells with the smallest surface area and most shape consistency were observed at P15. A comparison of polygonal cell geometries demonstrated progressive optimization with an increase in the number of hexagons (six‐sided) as well as five‐sided and seven‐sided polygons. Analysis of the epithelial organization with Voronoi tessellations and graphlet motif frequencies demonstrated a developmental path strikingly distinct from mathematical and natural reference paths. Graph Theory analysis of cell connectivity demonstrated a progressive decrease in network heterogeneity and clustering coefficient from P1 to P15.

Conclusions

We conclude that the rat pleura undergoes a striking change in pleural structure from P1 to P15. Further, a geometric and network‐based approach can provide a quantitative characterization of these developmental changes.
Discerning the Role of A‐Site Cation on the Efficiency and Stability of the Halide Perovskite Solid‐State Supercapacitor
Authors: Yadav Ankur , Bag Monojit
Published: January 2024

Hybrid halide perovskites have emerged promising energy‐storage materials due to their high ionic and electronic conductivity. They can be used in rechargeable batteries, photo‐rechargeable supercapacitors, and other ion capacitors. In this article, the role of A‐site cations in halide perovskites on the charge‐storage mechanism in supercapacitors is verified. Three different types of halide perovskites of APbI3 (where A = MA, Cs, or FA) are investigated to unveil the role of A‐site cation in energy‐storage application. Specific capacitance increases with the increasing surface area from CsPbI3 to FAPbI3. From the three‐electrode electrochemical measurement, it is observed that the FAPbI3 has the highest specific capacitance while CsPbI3 is the lowest among all. Herein, solid‐state asymmetric supercapacitors are further fabricated using quasi‐solid‐state gel electrolyte. The specific areal capacitance is achieved over 72 mF cm−2, which is at least six times higher than the CsPbI3‐based devices due to high ionic mobility. The stability and structural charge are further investigated due to charge storage in FAPbI3 electrode by ex situ X‐ray diffraction measurement. As prepared FAPbI3 powder is in δ phase, however during charging it changes to α‐phase and becomes stable. Significant phase changes are not observed for MAPbI3 and CsPbI3 electrodes either charging or discharging cycles.
Multivariate nearest‐neighbors Gaussian processes with random covariance matrices
Authors: Grenier Isabelle , Sansó Bruno , Matthews Jessica L.
Published: January 2024

We propose a non‐stationary spatial model based on a normal‐inverse‐Wishart framework, conditioning on a set of nearest‐neighbors. The model, called nearest‐neighbor Gaussian process with random covariance matrices is developed for both univariate and multivariate spatial settings and allows for fully flexible covariance structures that impose no stationarity or isotropic restrictions. In addition, the model can handle duplicate observations and missing data. We consider an approach based on integrating out the spatial random effects that allows fast inference for the model parameters. We also consider a full hierarchical approach that leverages the sparse structures induced by the model to perform fast Monte Carlo computations. Strong computational efficiency is achieved by leveraging the adaptive localized structure of the model that allows for a high level of parallelization. We illustrate the performance of the model with univariate and bivariate simulations, as well as with observations from two stationary satellites consisting of albedo measurements.
Reliability weight‐based extended puncturing mechanism for polar codes using translation shift
Authors: Ali Yasir , Xia Yuanqing
Published: January 2024

This article proposes an extended version of the enhanced puncturing mechanism for polar codes of limited lengths based on the translation shift of the channel indices coordinates, which is determined by introducing a new parameter known as reliability weight. It has been found that the message log‐likelihood ratio (LLR) gets influenced during transmission. This influence can be measured in terms of the reliability magnitude of the LLR messages by the path under consideration. Our work analyzes this correlation as a scaling technique for the reliability measurement of LLR values evaluated through the straight path phenomenon over the decoder tree traversing, providing a base for translating channel coordinates in Euclidean space. Further, we presented a reliable nearest coordinate shifting algorithm for puncturing the least reliable bits taken from a fixed information set, which maximizes the gap between reliable and unreliable bits. Simulation results demonstrate that the designed algorithm enhances the puncturing of unreliable channel coordinates by widening the gap between reliable and unreliable bits and has the lowest hardware complexity.
Spatiotemporal correlation and joint coverage probability in ultra‐dense mobile networks
Authors: Li Zhuoyang , He Yuan , Yi Di , Lv Jingyang
Published: January 2024

In the existing literature, for the spatial‐temporal characteristic of ultra‐dense network performances, the joint coverage probability is used to measure the correlation between different links or time‐slots due to channel and topological stability. However, the time‐variation introduces randomness and decreases correlation temporally and spatially due to user mobility, path‐loss and channel fading. In this paper, the expression of the joint coverage probability is derived to simultaneously analyze the effect of correlation and fluctuation among different time‐slots in ultra‐dense mobile networks by stochastic geometry. Specifically, the typical user moves out of the transmission range of the base station with handoff skipping and traditional handoff. In addition, the distance variation caused by the user's movement is considered in the analysis of the temporal correlation and the joint coverage probability. Simulation shows that the temporal correlation coefficient under handoff skipping is gradually greater than that under traditional handoff. The analytical results highlight the differences between the proposed network performance analysis and traditional analysis, validated through simulation.
Videofluoroscopic swallowing study to detect pharyngeal leak after total (pharyngo‐) laryngectomy: Retrospective assessment of a single‐institution protocol
Authors: Chabrillac Emilien , Baudel Lucile , Vergez Sébastien , Woisard Virginie , Farenc Jean‐Claude , Morisseau Mathilde , Dupret‐Bories Agnès
Published: January 2024

Background

We aimed to assess the effectiveness of a single‐institution protocol of videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) for the detection of pharyngeal leak (PL) and its usefulness to mitigate evolution into subsequent pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) after total (pharyngo‐) laryngectomy (TL).

Methods

This retrospective single‐center study was conducted between February 2014 and December 2022. We included all patients who underwent TL and performed a VFSS between Day 7 and Day 14 postoperatively to detect a subclinical PL.

Results

Two‐hundred and forty‐eight patients met the inclusion criteria. Among the 186 patients (75%) with a negative VFSS, 11 patients (5.9%) developed a secondary PCF after oral intake resumption (false negative of VFSS). Among the 62 patients (25%) with a positive VFSS, the occurrence of a PCF was avoided in 59.7% of cases.

Conclusion

This study showed a good effectiveness of VFSS in the detection of PL after TL, alongside a usefulness to mitigate evolution into subsequent PCF.
Cultural values, parenting and child adjustment in Jordan
Authors: Al‐Hassan Suha M.
Published: January 2024

This study examined associations between maternal and paternal cultural values (individualism, collectivism and conformity) and parenting dimensions (warmth, psychological control, autonomy granting, rule setting, knowledge solicitation and family obligations) and children's adjustment (internalising and externalising behaviours) in 113 families with children (Mage = 10.8 years) recruited from Zarqa, Jordan. Bivariate correlations and multiple regression analyses were used to examine study question. Results revealed that mothers' individualism was positively correlated with more maternal warmth, more rules/limit‐setting and fathers' and children's perceptions regarding children's greater family obligations. Fathers' individualism was not significantly correlated with any parenting or child adjustment variables. Mothers' and fathers' higher collectivism was correlated with more maternal and paternal warmth, respectively; however, mothers' and fathers' higher conformity values were not significantly correlated with any parenting or child adjustment variables. Mothers' collectivism was not associated with any parenting or child adjustment variables after taking into account the other cultural values, child gender and mothers' education; however, fathers' higher collectivism was associated with more paternal warmth, fathers' higher expectations for children's family obligations and less child internalising behaviour. The findings have implications for understanding how cultural values are related to parenting and children's adjustment in Jordan.
Alterations in Reserve Bilirubin Binding Capacity of Albumin by Free Fatty Acids. II. In Vitro and In Vivo Studies Using Difference Spectroscopy
Authors: Whitington Peter F. , Burckart Gilbert J. , Gross Sharon R. , Korones Sheldon B. , Helms Richard A.
Published: January 2024

The effects of free fatty acids (FFA) on reserve bilirubin binding capacity of solutions of human serum albumin (Alb) were determined in vitro using difference spectroscopy. Additionally, sera from 15 infants requiring parenteral nutrition were obtained before, during, and after the administration of a 1.0 g/kg intravenous dose of safflower oil emulsion, and determinations of FFA/Alb molar ratios and reserve bilirobin binding capacities were made for in vivo confirmation. The in vitro experiments demonstrated that increasing the linoleic acid/Alb molar ratio from 0 to 3.5 produced a 37% increase in binding capacity, but further increases to 9 ultimately resulted in a 32% decrease. Similar results were obtained using Alb at pH 7.4 and using defatted whole human serum. Using salicylate to block secondary binding sites demonstrated that linoleic acid enhanced binding at primary sites. In contrast to linoleic acid, octanoic acid did not alter binding at primary sites but lowered total binding capacity when its concentration exceeded 2.5 times that of the Alb in the sample. The in vivo measurements demonstrated that the total reserve bilirubin binding capacity dropped to 30% below base line only when the FFA/Alb molar ratio was greater than 7:1. Increases in total reserve bilirubin binding capacity above 30% over base line occurred in the range of FFA/Alb molar ratios of 1.6:4.0. Binding at primary sites was enhanced in a like manner at moderate FFA concentrations and did not fall below base line even at very high concentrations. These data support the concept of a positive cooperative binding effect between fatty acids and bilirubin at moderate fatty acid/Alb molar ratios and reconfirm the negative effect of fatty acids on bilirubin binding at high molar ratios. These data suggest that hyperbilirubinemic infants may be offered the nutritional benefits of intravenous safflower oil emulsion without additional risk of kernicterus as long as the FFA/Alb molar ratio is kept below 4 or the reserve bilirubin binding capacity is not decreased.
Prolonged Constant Rate Elemental Enteral Nutrition in Crohn's Disease
Authors: Navarro J. , Vargas J. , Cezard J. P. , Charritat J. L. , Polonovski C.
Published: January 2024

Constant rate enteral nutrition (CREN) has been used in 17 pediatric patients with Crohn's disease. Exclusive CREN was maintained from 2 to 7 months and progressively reduced to assure fractioned oral intakes from 12 to 22 months. From this preliminary study, CREN appeared to be as effective as steroid therapy in initiating remission of active Crohn's disease and was able to suppress steroid dependence. In some cases with prolonged CREN, reduction or disappearance of stenotic lesions of the bowel was observed. Two other positive points must be emphasized: the favorable psychological impact of the method and the ability to avoid growth suppression secondary to steroids. The long‐term effects and longer remissions must be confirmed by a multicenter study in a larger group of patients.
Gastric Acid Hypersecretion in Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Cox Kenneth L. , Isenberg J. Nevin , Ament Marvin E.
Published: January 2024

Increased basal and/or pentagastrin‐stimulated gastric acid secretion was observed in 31 of 40 cystic fibrosis (CF) patients as compared to 13 age‐matched control volunteers. Fasting serum gastrin level for 20 CF patients of 67.7 ± 11.1 pg/ml (ranging from 10 to 145 pg/ml) was normal. Mealstimulated serum gastrin concentrations were not significantly higher for seven CF patients as compared to nine normal subjects. In a rat bioassay, serum extracts from six CF patients produced gastric acid secretion comparable to 250 ng/ml of pentagastrin; significantly (p < 0.01) greater than the responses produced by serum extracts from six normal subjects. There was no significant correlation of severity of pulmonary disease or steatorrhea with acid secretory results. Fourteen of 16 CF patients biopsied had evidence of proximal small intestinal injury which correlated with basal acid output elevation. Gastric acid hypersecretion in CF patients is due to nongastrin secretagogues and is a cause of proximal small intestinal injury.
In Vivo Absorption of Pancreatic Ribonuclease from the Small Intestine of Young and Mature Rats
Authors: Urban Ernest , Zingery Amy Ahrens
Published: January 2024

It has been postulated that exocrine pancreatic enzymes may undergo an enteropancreatic recirculation as a mechanism for the conservation of digestive enzymes. Exocrine pancreatic secretions contain considerable amounts of ribonuclease (RNase), Therefore we examined the absorption of RNase from the small bowel of 4‐week and 10‐week‐old rats by measuring concentration changes of the substrate in portal blood after instilling RNase into in vivo, in situ intestinal loops. Unphysiologically high intestinal luminal RNase concentrations were required for sufficient RNase to cross the mucosal barrier and raise portal vein blood RNase levels. A gradient of 1,000:1 existed between intestinal lumen and portal vein blood RNase concentrations in the 4‐week‐old rats. The gradient was 10 times greater in the mature animals. No significant differences in luminal absorption of RNase from duodenum or ileum were detected. The data indicate that RNase penetrates the intestinal mucosa in vivo but that only small amounts are absorbed. Therefore if an enteropancreatic recirculation of exocrine pancreatic RNase exists in the rat, only neglible quantities of RNase are included in such a recirculation.
Muscle Electrolytes in Malnutrition Syndromes of Children
Authors: Nichols Buford L. , Garza Cutberto , Klish William , Hazlewood Carlton , Argote Rosa M. , Garcia Guadalupe , Parra Adalberto
Published: January 2024

Muscle electrolyte composition has been studied in 10 infants with marasmus and eight children with kwashiorkor. The presence of altered muscle salt and water concentrations was confined in the latter nutritional syndrome. The marasmic infant, with equivalent or more severe nutritional wasting than the child with kwashiorkor, maintained a more normal muscle electrolyte concentration as indicated by a number of criteria. The pathophysiology of the altered muscle composition in kwashiorkor remains unclear; however, it appears to be more specific than due just to a depletion of available fat and muscle stores. Although possible endocrine mechanisms can be postulated to explain the change in muscle chemistry, the existing evidence is inadequate. Clearly, continuing research is warranted.
Increased Intestinal Clearance of $aP1‐Antitrypsin in Patients with $aP1‐Antitrypsin Deficiency
Authors: Grill Bruce B. , Tinghitella Thomas , Hillemeier Craig , Gryboski Joyce
Published: January 2024

To evaluate the possible contribution of enteric losses of $aP1‐antitrypsin ($aP1‐AT) to the low serum levels of $aP1‐AT seen in patients with $aP1‐AT deficiency, we investigated intestinal clearance of $aP1‐AT (C‐$aP1‐AT) in five of these patients (mean age 3.4 years) and compared it to that of 10 patients (mean age 3.7 years) with gastrointestinal disorders and normal serum albumin values who served as controls. C‐$aP1‐AT was also determined in four patients (mean age 9 months) with noncirrhotic liver disease. The percent of daily $aP1‐AT turnover which could be attributed to stool losses was calculated in these groups of patients, $aP1‐AT was measured in stool and serum by radial immunodiffusion and the clearance calculated. The mean C‐$aP1‐AT in the patients with $aP1‐AT deficiency was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than that of the controls. The liver disease patients had values for C‐$aP1‐AT in the range of the controls. Three of the $aP1‐AT deficiency patients had values for C‐$aP1‐AT greater than the mean plus 3 SD of the control, but these were not in the range seen in patients with protein losing enteropathy. Mean percent contribution of stool losses to total daily $aP1‐AT turnover was similar in all three groups. We conclude that patients with $aP1‐AT deficiency have increased fecal clearance of $aP1‐AT seemingly unrelated to the liver disease, but that this is not a major cause of the low serum levels.
Intestinal Absorption of IgA in the Newborn
Authors: Vukavic Tamara
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study was to establish whether or not the newborn can absorb IgA from colostrum, using two feeding regimens. Single radial immunodiffusion on commercial Behring plates was used for IgA quantitation. In group A, 30 mature newborn infants born by vaginal delivery and fully breast fed, cord serum IgA concentration was 0.0990 ± 0.0294 mg/ml ( ± SEM). IgA was detectable in 9 of 30 infants. On the 3rd day of life, IgA concentration in serum was 0.3610 ± 0.0194 mg/ml ( ± SEM). It was detectable in all 30 infants; on the 5th day of life, its concentration was 0.4293 ± 0.0365 mg/ml ( ± SEM). In group B, 39 newborn infants born by cesarean section and fed boiled human milk exclusively, IgA was not detected either in cord, or in venous blood on the 3rd and 5th day of life. The rise of serum IgA in breast‐fed newborn infants, highly significant from the 1st to the 3rd day of life (p < 0.0001), and its increase between the 3rd and 5th day, although not significant, was in distinct contrast to the undetectable serum IgA in newborn infants fed boiled human milk. These data strongly suggest that IgA absorption from colostrum occurs at least until the 3rd day of life.
Trace Mineral Balances in Preterm Infants Fed Their Own Mother's Milk
Authors: Mendelson R. A. , Bryan M. H. , Anderson G. H.
Published: January 2024

Balance studies were conducted on preterm infants (birthweight, 1,500 g or less) fed their own mother's milk or formula (SMA with iron®) to compare the relative adequacy of these sources for copper (Cu), iron (Fe), and zinc (Zn). Urine and stools were collected for 72 h from infants aged 1, 2, or 4 weeks while they were fed milk or formula. Infants fed SMA 24 (but not SMA 20) received Cu, Fe, and Zn intakes within the recommended range. They did not, however, achieve estimated in utero retention rates for Fe, and were in negative Cu balance; they did approach in utero retention rates for Zn. Infants fed their own mother's milk received Cu and Zn, but not Fe, in recommended amounts. They achieved in utero retention rates for Cu at each age studied and approached the estimated in utero retention rates for Zn at 4 weeks, but they retained insufficient Fe throughout. Thus, neither the infant's own mother's milk nor this particular formula provides ideal amounts of all three minerals studied—Cu, Zn, and Fe—during the 1st month of life.
Hemorrhagic Pleural Effusion and Mediastinal Mass
Authors: Standaert L. , Verstappen G. , Malbrain H. , Van Bosstraeten B. , Kerremans R. , Eggermont E. , Daele M. Casteels‐Van
Published: January 2024

A girl was referred to our hospital because of a right‐sided recurrent hemorrhagic pleural effusion associated with a mediastinal mass. It was later found that the findings were due to a pancreatic pseudocyst with internal fistulization through a necrotic opening in the left hemi‐diaphragm, and with mediastinal and right‐sided pleural extension. The object of this report is to remind clinicians that a pleural effusion and a mediastinal mass may be the presentation of a pseudocyst of the pancreas, and to point out the importance of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography—even for children.
Diversity of Bile Acids in the Fetus and Newborn Infant
Authors: Lester Roger , Pyrek Jan St. , Little J. M. , Adcock Eugene W.
Published: January 2024

The bile acids found in the fetus and newborn are more numerous and diverse than has generally been appreciated. The four conventional bile acids, cholic, chenodeoxycholic, deoxycholic, and lithocholic acids, are found. In addition, however, stereoisomers of the conventional bile acids, bile acids with functional groups at different positions or in greater number than found in conventional bile acids, and “short‐chain” and “long‐chain” bile acids are found. The site of origin, pathways of synthesis, metabolism, and excretory routes of these unconventional bile acids are largely unknown. Their effects on the function of the liver and other tissues have not yet been established. It is uncertain which of these compounds is peculiar to the fetus and newborn, and which will be found in normal or abnormal adults. This review is an early look at a field bound to advance rapidly in the next several years.
Distribution of trans‐Octadecenoic Acid in the Major Glycerolipids of Human Milk
Authors: Hundrieser Kenneth E. , Clark Richard M. , Brown Peter B.
Published: January 2024

The intramolecular distributions of fatty acids in triacylglycerol, phosphatidylcholine, and phosphatidylethanolamine of human milk were determined. Milk donated from 10 mothers during their 2nd week of lactation was analyzed. Based on pancreatic lipase digestion of milk triacylglycerols, the 14:0 and 16:0 fatty acids were observed predominantly in the sn‐2 position, while 18:0, 18:1, and 18:2 were observed predominantly in the sn‐1,3 positions. The average trans‐18:1 content of the triacylglycerols was 3.4% and was greater in the sn‐1,3 positions. Phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine were digested by phospholipase A2. As in other tissues, saturated fatty acids were esterified at the sn‐1 position and polyunsaturated fatty acids at the sn‐2 position of the phospholipids. The proportion of trans‐18:1 averaged 2.5% in phosphatidylcholine and 3.7% in phosphatidylethanolamine. The proportion of trans‐18:1 was slightly greater in the sn‐2 position of the phospholipids. In conclusion, there appeared to be a reverse positional distribution of saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids in triacylglycerol compared to phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine. When compared to other mammalian tissues, there were only small differences observed in trans‐18:1 content between positions within a glycerolipid class and between glycerolipids of human milk.
Supplementation of Milk with Iron Bound to Lactoferrin Using Weanling Mice
Authors: Fransson Gun‐Britt , Keen Carl L. , Lönnerdal Bo
Published: January 2024

Lactoferrin is an iron‐binding protein present in high concentrations in human milk. The efficacy of supplementing iron bound to lactoferrin to iron‐deficient and iron‐sufficient young mice was evaluated in comparison with supplementation of iron as iron chloride. Mice fed a nonsupplemented milk diet (1 mg Fe/L) for 4 weeks had a microcytic, hypochromic anemia and low tissue iron concentrations. Iron supplementation of the diet with lactorferrin‐iron. or iron chloride at a level of 5 mg Fe/L prevented the anemia and resulted in tissue iron levels similar to levels found for mice fed a stock commercial diet. There was no significant difference in any of the parameters analyzed between the groups of mice receiving the two iron supplements following a diet deficient in iron. Apolactoferrin when supplemented to the diet had no negative effect on the iron status of the mice. These results show that lactoferrin may be a useful vehicle for supplementation of iron.
Inefficacy of Immunosuppressive Treatment in HBsAg‐Positive, †‐Negative, Moderate Chronic Active Hepatitis in Children
Authors: Vajro Pietro , Orso Giuseppe , D'Antonio Annamaria , Greco Luigi , Fontanella Angiola , Loffredo Giuseppe , Oggero Vanda , Buffolano Wilma
Published: January 2024

The efficacy of immunosuppressive treatment was evaluated in a group of 15 children (aged 2–10 years) affected by clinically asymptomatic, biochemically mild, HBsAg‐positive, †‐antibody‐negative, histologically moderate, chronic active hepatitis (CAH). Clinical, biochemical, serological, and histological features of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection were studied during a follow‐up of 2 years. Eight of 15 patients received immunosuppressive treatment (prednisone plus azathio‐prine); seven received a placebo. No significant differences were found among treated and untreated patients, an overall improvement of nearly all parameters of disease (aminotransferases, albumin, prothrombin time, immunoglobulins, bromsulphalein at 45 min, and bile acid serum levels) being found in both groups. Treated patients showed an improvement in aminotransferase levels only at the first 3‐month checkup. This finding, however, was not statistically significant in our study and disappeared at subsequent follow‐up examinations. A high incidence of HBeAg was noted at entry into the study (10 of 15 patients checked). HBeAg seroconversion was observed in two of the six HBeAg‐positive treated patients and in two of the four HBeAg‐positive untreated patients. Finally, the histological picture showed similar patterns in both groups of patients studied. Our data suggest that no benefit from immunosuppressive therapy can be proven at this time in asymptomatic, moderately active, HBsAg‐positive, †‐negative CAH in children.
Expression of Ornithine Transcarbamylase Deficiency in the Small Intestine and Colon of Sparse‐Fur Mutant Mice
Authors: Qureshi Ijaz A. , Letarte Jacques , Ouellet René
Published: January 2024

Sparse‐fur mutant mice have an X‐linked deficiency of liver ornithine transcarbamylase (OTG), similar to congenital hyperammonemia type II seen in children. The purpose of the present study was to see whether the expression of enzyme deficiency in the small intestine and colon was similar to that in the liver. Our results show that the level of residual OTC activity in duodenal, jejunal, and ileal mucosa is not significantly different from that of the liver, both in mutant heterozygous female and hemizygous male mice. A highly significant (p < 0.001) positive correlation was seen between the enzyme activity from all segments of the normal and mutant intestine and that of the liver. pH dependence of mucosal OTC was similar to liver enzyme, when compared within normal or hemizygous mutant mice. Apparent Km (ornithine) of the enzyme from normal or mutant small intestine did not show any significant differences when compared with OTC from normal or mutant livers, respectively. Apparent Km (carbamyl phosphate) from both organs of normal mice was also similar. However, Km (carbamyl phosphate) of mutant intestine and liver gave variable results on statistical comparisons. The specific activity in the proximal and distal colon of mutant mice was significantly lower (p < 0.001) than normal mice, and showed a similar expression of enzyme deficiency as seen in the small intestine. The similarity of OTC deficiency in the intestine and liver of sparse‐fur mice would provide a basis for investigating the use of mucosal biopsies in the confirmation and characterization of human disease.