bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green Molecular Transformation in Dual Catalysis: Photoredox Activation of Vitamin B12 Using Heterogeneous Photocatalyst
Authors: Shichijo Keita , Shimakoshi Hisashi
Published: February 2024

This concept focuses on dual‐catalysis using metal complexes and heterogeneous photocatalysts. Vitamin B12 derivatives are sophisticated metal complexes that facilitate enzymatic reactions in the biological systems. The B12 enzymes inspired reactions catalytically proceed in dual‐catalyst systems of B12 derivatives and heterogeneous photocatalysts, such as titanium oxide (TiO2) and metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), under light irradiation. The cobalt ions in B12 derivatives are effectively reduced by photoexcited photocatalysts, producing low‐valent Co(I) species. The photoinduced nucleophilic Co(I) species react with an alkyl halide to form an organometallic complex with a Co−C bond. The Co−C bond dissociates during photolysis to generate alkyl radicals. Based on this mechanism, dual‐catalysis effectively promotes various light‐driven organic syntheses and light‐driven dehalogenation reactions of toxic alkyl halides. The trends of the dual‐catalyst system and recent progress in this field are discussed in this concept.
The frequency and phenological stage of foliar application of nutrients and biostimulant can increase sugarcane yield and biomass and bioenergy productions
Authors: Hervatin Cleber de Morais , Prado Filho Anibal Pacheco de Almeida , Momesso Letusa , Jacomassi Lucas Morais , Crusciol Carlos Alexandre Costa
Published: February 2024

The impacts of sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) production include an extensive area of cultivation, high use of technology, and the generation of by‐products that must be utilized. Achieving higher productivity while reducing the expansion of cultivation is challenging. A potential strategy for increasing sugarcane yields and productivity is the foliar application of nutrients and biostimulants at different stages of sugarcane growth. The present study assessed the impact of the foliar application of nutrients (N, B, Cu, and Zn) and a growth regulator as biostimulant (indole butyric acid, gibberellic acid, and kinetin) on sugarcane metabolism, stalk and sugar production, and quality. Field experiments were performed at 17 sites during four growing seasons (2017–2018, 2018–2019, 2019–2020, and 2020–2021) using sugarcane with three harvest times (early, mid‐late, and late harvests). The treatments were as follows: (i) no foliar application of the biostimulant and nutrients (control), (ii) foliar application of the biostimulant and nutrients at the vegetative stage (VS) of sugarcane, (iii) foliar application of the biostimulant and nutrients at the maturation stage (MS) of sugarcane, and (iv) foliar application of the biostimulant and nutrients at both the vegetative and maturation stages (VMS). Foliar application did not increase ribulose 1,5‐bisphosphate carboxylase activity but increased phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase activity and the activities of the antioxidant enzymes. Peroxidase and catalase activities were higher, >100% and 45%, respectively, in VMS, whereas superoxide dismutase activity increased by 54% in MS compared with control. Consistent with these results, sugarcane had low hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde contents in VMS. In addition, the plant biometric parameters were highest in VMS, which sugarcane produced 105, 92, and 86 Mg stalk h−1 in early, mid‐late, and late harvest seasons, respectively. In summary, the foliar application of the biostimulant and nutrients efficiently promoted the growth, productivity, and quality of early, mid‐late, and late harvest seasons. The positive effects of foliar application on the enzymatic and physiological responses of sugarcane can be achieved when applications are performed in both the VMS in all harvest seasons.
Noninvasive rapid urinary trypsinogen‐2 dipstick test for early exclusion of post‐endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis within hours after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: Clinical diagnosis and considerations
Authors: Hama Kazuki , Sofuni Atsushi , Nakatsubo Ryosuke , Tsuchiya Takayoshi , Tanaka Reina , Tonozuka Ryosuke , Mukai Shuntaro , Yamamoto Kenjiro , Katanuma Akio , Itoi Takao
Published: February 2024

Objective

Few reports have explored the application of urinary trypsinogen‐2 measurement in the early diagnosis of post‐endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis, and none have demonstrated the benefits of noninvasive testing. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical application of the rapid urinary trypsinogen‐2 dipstick test (Nipro, Japan) compared with serum amylase and lipase levels for the early diagnosis of post‐ERCP pancreatitis (PEP).

Methods

A total of 100 consecutive patients (54 men and 46 women) who were admitted and underwent ERCP at Tokyo Medical University Hospital from August 2021 to December 2021 were recruited. All patients underwent rapid urinary trypsinogen‐2 measurement using the dipstick test before and after ERCP. Measurements were taken 24 h before ERCP for pre‐ERCP and 1–4 h after ERCP for post‐ERCP. Additionally, serum amylase and lipase levels were measured at 8:00 a.m. of the day after ERCP (at least 8 h after ERCP), and their diagnostic abilities for PEP were compared and evaluated.

Results

PEP occurred in 5/100 patients (5%). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of the dipstick test for diagnosing PEP were 100%, 83.2%, 23.8%, and 100%, respectively. These results were comparable to the diagnostic performance of serum amylase and lipase levels at 8:00 a.m. on the day after ERCP (at least 8 h after ERCP). However, false positives must be considered.

Conclusion

The dipstick test may be useful in clinical practice as a noninvasive screening test for the early prediction of PEP.
The first record of leucism in the Rhabdophis tigrinus (Boie, 1826) (Squamata, Colubridae) in South Korea
Authors: Park Seung‐Min , Cheon Seung‐Ju , Park Hye‐Rin , Kim Na‐Yeong , Rahman Md Mizanur , Sung Ha‐Cheol
Published: February 2024

Leucism, in which pigmentation is lost over part or the entire body of an animal, has a range of possible genetic causes. Here, we report leucism in an individual tiger keelback (Rhabdophis tigrinus) found on Jeung Island, Shinan‐gun, Jeollanam‐do, South Korea, during a survey of the distribution of reptiles in the area. The individual was observed sunbathing in the bushes next to a pond. This individual exhibited ecdysis, thus it considered that have normal feeding activity. Our report represents the first observation of leucism in R. tigrinus, and thus, further analysis is needed of this phenotype to more clearly understand its impact on the species and its natural history.
Acoustic monitoring yields informative bat population density estimates
Authors: Hoggatt Meredith L. , Starbuck Clarissa A. , O'Keefe Joy M.
Published: February 2024

Bat population estimates are typically made during winter, although this is only feasible for bats that aggregate in hibernacula. While it is essential to measure summer bat population sizes for management, we lack a reliable method. Acoustic surveys should be less expensive and more efficient than capture surveys, and acoustic activity data are already used as indices of population size. Although we currently cannot differentiate individual bats by their calls, we can enter call counts, information on signal and detection angles, and weather data into generalized random encounter models to estimate bat density. We assessed the utility of generalized random encounter models for estimating Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis) population density with acoustic data collected at 51 total sites in six conservation areas in northeast Missouri, 2019–2021. We tested the effects of year, volancy period, conservation area, and their interactions on estimated density. Volancy period was the best predictor, with average predicted density increasing 60% from pre‐volancy (46 bats/km2) to post‐volancy (74 bats/km2); however, the magnitude of the effect differed by conservation area. We showed that passive acoustic surveys yield informative density estimates that are responsive to temporal changes in bat population size, which suggests this method may be useful for long‐term monitoring. However, we need more information to choose the most appropriate values for the density estimation formula. Future work to refine this approach should include assessments of bat behavior and detection parameters and testing the method's efficacy in areas where population sizes are known.
Neuronal small extracellular vesicles carrying miR‐181c‐5p contribute to the pathogenesis of epilepsy by regulating the protein kinase C‐δ/glutamate transporter‐1 axis in astrocytes
Authors: Ma Limin , Wu Qingyuan , You Yu , Zhang Peng , Tan Dandan , Liang Minxue , Huang Yunyi , Gao Yuan , Ban Yuenan , Chen Yangmei , Yuan Jinxian
Published: February 2024

Information exchange between neurons and astrocytes mediated by extracellular vesicles (EVs) is known to play a key role in the pathogenesis of central nervous system diseases. A key driver of epilepsy is the dysregulation of intersynaptic excitatory neurotransmitters mediated by astrocytes. Thus, we investigated the potential association between neuronal EV microRNAs (miRNAs) and astrocyte glutamate uptake ability in epilepsy. Here, we showed that astrocytes were able to engulf epileptogenic neuronal EVs, inducing a significant increase in the glutamate concentration in the extracellular fluid of astrocytes, which was linked to a decrease in glutamate transporter‐1 (GLT‐1) protein expression. Using sequencing and gene ontology (GO) functional analysis, miR‐181c‐5p was found to be the most significantly upregulated miRNA in epileptogenic neuronal EVs and was linked to glutamate metabolism. Moreover, we found that neuronal EV‐derived miR‐181c‐5p interacted with protein kinase C‐delta (PKCδ), downregulated PKCδ and GLT‐1 protein expression and increased glutamate concentrations in astrocytes both in vitro and in vivo. Our findings demonstrated that epileptogenic neuronal EVs carrying miR‐181c‐5p decrease the glutamate uptake ability of astrocytes, thus promoting susceptibility to epilepsy.
Exploring causal correlations between circulating levels of cytokines and colorectal cancer risk: A Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Meng Cong , Sun Liting , Shi Jinyao , Li Yang , Gao Jiale , Liu Yishan , Wei Pengyu , Yang Zhengyang , Yao Hongwei , Zhang Zhongtao
Published: February 2024

Colorectal cancer has the highest mortality rate of all digestive system diseases. Considering the debate about cytokines and biases that exist in traditional observational study designs, we performed a two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the association of circulating cytokines with CRC risk. In this study, we used cytokine genetic variants from a recently published genome‐wide association study (GWAS) including 14,824 European‐ancestry participants. Summary‐level data for colorectal cancer were obtained from genome‐wide association analyses of the FinnGen consortium. In addition, we conducted independent supplementary analyses using genetic variation data of colorectal cancer and cytokines from a large public GWAS in 2021. Among 91 circulating factors, we only found IL‐12B to be significantly associated with CRC risk (odds ratio [OR]: 1.19; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.00–1.42; p = .046). We used 2021 data for analysis and found that higher Interleukin‐12p70 levels (IL‐12p70) were revealed to have a significant positive association with CRC risk (OR: 1.27; 95% CI: 1.13–1.43; p < 1.22 × 10−3). Moreover, CRC was suggestively correlated with an elevated level of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (OR: 1.17; 95% CI: 1.02–1.35; p = .026), macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (M‐CSF) (OR: 0.85; 95% CI: 0.76–0.96; p = .005), IL‐13 (OR: 1.15; 95% CI: 1.02–1.30; p = .028), IL‐10 (OR: 1.23; 95% CI: 1.01–1.49; p = .037), and IL‐7 (OR: 1.19; 95% CI: 1.02–1.39; p = .024). Our MR studies support that one cytokine IL‐12 is significantly associated with CRC risk and that five cytokines VEGF, M‐CSF, IL‐13, IL‐10, and IL‐7 are associated with CRC risk.
Effect of Infant Formula Zinc and Iron Level on Zinc Absorption, Zinc Status, and Immune Function in Infant Rhesus Monkeys
Authors: Polberger S. , Fletcher M. P. , Graham T. W. , Vruwink K. , Gershwin M. E. , Lönnerdal B.
Published: February 2024

To evaluate the effects of marginal zinc (Zn) deficiency on Zn absorption and metabolism, three groups of infant rhesus monkeys (n = 4/group) were fed from birth to 5 months of age either a regular infant formula (5 mg Zn/L) or a low‐Zn formula (1 mg Zn/L). Since iron (Fe) intake may affect Zn absorption, the low‐Zn formula was given without (1 mg Fe/L) or with Fe fortification (12 mg/L). At monthly intervals, Zn absorption and retention were assessed by gavage feeding with 65Zn and whole‐body counting immediately after and on days 4, 7, and 11 after intubation. Blood samples were drawn before dosing for analyses of various potential markers of Zn status. Infants fed low‐Zn formula had slower weight gain than controls; however, length growth was similar in all groups. 65Zn retention was considerably higher in both groups fed low‐Zn formula (40%) than in the control group (20%), whereas plasma Zn levels were normal in all infants. Plasma metallothionein levels were generally very low and detectable in only 5 samples of 48; however, 4 of these were found in control infants. Neutrophil chemotaxis assessed at the end of the study was impaired in low‐Zn infants compared to controls. In addition, low‐Zn infants had increased levels of interleukin‐2 at the end of the study. No differences were seen between the groups in hemoglobin levels, total white blood cells/absolute neutrophil counts, or plasma activities of 5′‐nucleotidase or angiotensin converting enzyme. In conclusion, marginal Zn intake in infant rhesus monkeys resulted in increased Zn retention, which was not enough to completely compensate for the lower Zn intake. The higher level of iron fortification studied did not affect Zn retention significantly.
Colonic Strictures in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis: Results of a Survey of 114 Cystic Fibrosis Care Centers in the United States
Authors: Freiman Joel P. , Fitzsimmons Stacey C.
Published: February 2024

We describe 15 cases of stricture of the colon requiring surgery in cystic fibrosis patients identified from a survey of 114 cystic fibrosis care centers in the United States. Patient ages ranged from 2 to 8 years, seven of the 15 patients were female. A history of meconium ileus was reported in nine of the 15 cases. Fibrosis of the submucosa was described in 14 surgical pathology reports. Pancreatic enzyme use history was available from 14 reports. All had taken delayed‐release products for 6‐96 months at average doses ranging from 6,700 to 29,100 units lipase/kg/meal, but only eight of them used products containing >20,000 units lipase per capsule prior to surgery.
Behavioral Intervention to Improve Calorie Intake of Children with Cystic Fibrosis: Treatment Versus Wait List Control
Authors: Stark Lori J. , Mulvihill Mary M. , Powers Scott W. , Jelalian Elissa , Keating Kristin , Creveling Susan , Byrnes‐Collins Barbara , Harwood Ivan , Passero Mary Anne , Light Michael , Miller Deborah L. , Hovell Melbourne F.
Published: February 2024

Changes in calorie intake and weight gain were evaluated in five children with cystic fibrosis (CF) who received behavioral intervention and four children with CF who served as wait list controls. The behavioral intervention was a 6‐week group treatment that provided nutritional education plus management strategies aimed at mealtime behaviors that parents find most problematic. The control group was identified prospectively and was evaluated on all dependent measures at the same points in time pre‐ and posttreatment as the intervention group. Difference scores on calorie intake and weight gain from pre‐ to posttreatment were compared between groups using t tests for independent samples. The behavioral intervention group increased their calorie intake by 1,032 calories per day, while the control group's intake increased only 244 calories per day from pre‐ to posttreatment [t(6) = 2.826, p = 0.03]. The intervention group also gained significantly more weight (1.7 kg) than the control group (0 kg) over the 6 weeks of treatment [t(7) = 2.588, p = 0.03] and demonstrated catchup growth for weight, as indicated by improved weight Z scores (‐1.18 to ‐0.738). The control group showed a decline in weight Z scores over this same time period (‐1.715 to ‐1.76). One month posttreatment, the intervention was replicated with two of the four children from the control group. Improved calorie intake and weight gain pre‐ to posttreatment were again found in these children. At 3‐ and 6‐month follow‐up study of children receiving intervention, maintenance of calorie intake and weight gain was confirmed. No changes were found on pulmonary functioning, resting energy expenditure, or activity level pre‐ to posttreatment. This form of early intervention appears to be promising in improving nutritional status and needs to be investigated over a longer period of time to evaluate the effects of treatment gains on the disease process.
Neural Cell Adhesion Molecule (NCAM) Expression in Nerves and Muscle of Developing Human Large Bowel
Authors: Romanska Hanna M. , Bishop Anne E. , Moscoso Gonzalo , Walsh Frank S. , Spitz Lewis , Brereton Roger J. , Polak Julia M.
Published: February 2024

Most studies of neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) in human musculature are devoted to either developing or adult skeletal and cardiac muscle. The aim of this study was to determine the pattern of NCAM expression in the intestinal musculature of the developing human large bowel. In specimens of large bowel from foetuses (gestational age 8‐20 weeks), we examined the immunohistochemical localisation of NCAM in parallel to those of α‐smooth muscle actin and desmin. Within the developing neural complex, NCAM was expressed at all stages investigated. In intestinal muscle at 8 weeks, immunoreactivity for all antisera was restricted to the muscularis propria. The differentiating muscularis mucosae was demonstrated first at 15 weeks by immunostaining for α‐smooth muscle actin, and this expression was followed by that of NCAM and desmin at 17 and 19 weeks, respectively. At 20 weeks, NCAM immunoreactivity in the external muscle was intense at the inner border of the circular muscle, with its concentration decreasing towards the outer margin of the muscular wall, whereas α‐smooth muscle actin and desmin were uniformly distributed in all muscle layers. NCAM is expressed by nerves and muscle of developing human large intestine. Its appearance follows a predetermined pattern, which implies its relevance to the differentiation of intestinal muscle layers.
Mesenchymal Regulation of Differentiation of Intestinal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Ferretti Emanuela , Li Song , Wang Jinxia , Post Martin , Moore Aideen
Published: February 2024

Intestinal epithelial differentiation requires the presence of mesenchyme, but the exact nature of this epithelial‐mesenchymal interaction is unknown. The role of humoral and extracellular matrix factors in determining intestinal epithelial differentiation was examined by exposing a nontransformed, immature, rat small‐intestinal cell line (IEC‐6) to intestinal fibroblast‐conditioned media or by growing the cells on matrix deposited by intestinal fibroblasts. Differentiation was assessed morphologically and by induction of the disaccharidase sucrase, which is a marker of intestinal epithelial maturation. When exposed to fetal intestinal fibroblast‐conditioned medium or grown on extracellular matrix prepared from fetal intestinal fibroblasts, IEC‐6 cells showed a significant increase in sucrase activity. The addition of cortisol to IEC‐6 cells cultured on intestinal matrix also led to increased sucrase expression, as measured by enzyme activity and protein and messenger RNA levels. Ultrastructurally, cells cultured on intestinal fibroblast matrix in the presence of cortisol displayed a more differentiated phenotype. In contrast, there was no induction of sucrase activity in cells exposed to lung‐conditioned media or grown on lung fibroblast matrix. These studies suggest that both humoral and matrix factors from intestinal mesenchyme are involved in intestinal epithelial differentiation and that these factors appear to be organ specific.
Zinc Content and Distribution in the Newborn Liver
Authors: Coni Pierpaolo , Ravarino Alberto , Farci Anna Maria Giulia , Callea Francesco , Van Eyken Peter , Sciot Raf , Ambu Rossano , Marras Andrea , Costa Virgilio , Faa Gavino , Desmet Valeer J.
Published: February 2024

The newborn liver is a proven model for the study of liver storage of copper and iron. We analyzed zinc concentration and distribution in the livers of newborns and infants using a systematic tissue‐sampling technique. We studied 14 newborns of 26‐41 weeks of gestation (WG). One stillborn, and three infants (52‐90 days old). At autopsy, a longtudinal liver slice extending from the right to the left lobe was subdivided into 10 samples that were analyzed for zinc concentration by atomic absorption spectroscopy. The mean zinc concentration in the newborn liver was 639 μg/g of dry tissue (dt). A striking interindividual variability in zinc liver stores was observed; the hepatic concentration of the metal ranged from 300 to 1,400 μg/g dt. We found a correlation between zinc liver content and gestational age. In newborns of 27‐32 WG, the hepatic zinc concentration was significantly higher (p < 0.01) than in newborns of 34‐41 WG. Zinc stores decreased in the postnatal period; in the infant group, the mean liver zinc concentration was 148 μg/g dt. The analysis of zinc concentration in 10 blocks from each liver revealed a regular distribution of the metal, without significant differences between liver lobes. Our data show that the newborn liver can be considered an interesting model for the study of zinc storage, which appears to correlate inversely with gestational age. From a practical point of view, the observed regular distribution of zinc implies that, at least in this model, zinc content determined in a small liver sample is representative of zinc content in the whole liver.
Plasma Vitamin K1 and PIVKA‐II After Oral Administration of Mixed‐Micellar or Cremophor EL‐solubilized Preparations of Vitamin K1 to Normal Breast‐Fed Newborns
Authors: Schubiger G. , Grüter J. , Shearer M. J.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Vitamin K1 prophylaxis in neonates is required for prevention of vitamin K1 deficiency bleeding. Although intramuscular administration of vitamin K1 is safe, this invasive method is not generally accepted. We therefore examined the pharmacokinetics of two orally administered vitamin K1 preparations in normal, fully breast‐fed newborns.

Methods:

Within 1 hour of birth, each baby was randomized to a 2 mg dose of either a conventional Cremophor EL‐solubilized preparation of vitamin K1 (Konakion drops, F. Hoffmann‐La Roche, n = 16), or a new mixed‐micellar preparation of vitamin K1 (Konakion MM, F. Hoffmann‐La Roche, n = 14). The concentrations of vitamin K1, des‐γ‐carboxyprothrombin (PIVKA‐II), and total bound bilirubin were measured in plasma samples taken at 24 hours, 4 days, and 24 days after birth.

Results:

The median concentration of plasma vitamin K1 was higher at all three time points in the group that received the mixed‐micellar preparation, but the difference was only significant (p < 0.05) at 4 days. At 24 hours and 4 days, PIVKA‐II was detectable in a significantly lower proportions of infants receiving the new mixed‐micellar preparation than those receiving the Cremophor EL preparation (21% vs. 75% at 24 hours, p < 0.05 and 14% vs. 50% at 4 days, p < 0.05). None of the infants in the study had detectable PIVKA‐II levels 24 days after birth.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that when given orally, the mixed‐micellar preparation is superior to the conventional formulation because it increases plasma vitamin K1 concentrations to higher levels, suggesting superior bioavailability, and decreases PIVKA‐II concentrations more efficiently, suggesting a faster pharmacodynamic response.
Correlation of Clinical Characteristics and Small Bowel Histopathology in Celiac Disease
Authors: Weizman Zvi , Ben‐Zion Yitzhak Z. , Binsztok Mauricio , Maor Esther , Porath Avi
Published: February 2024

Background:

Literature information regarding clinical and histological correlates in celiac disease is limited. The present study was designed to assess the value of various clinical parameters in predicting the severity of small bowel histopathology.

Methods:

Small bowel biopsy specimens of 59 children with established celiac disease (ESPGAN criteria) were evaluated blindly. Morphology was evaluated based on a common histopathology score. The following clinical variables were evaluated: age at diagnosis, duration of symptoms, severity score of clinical symptoms, severity score of physical signs, and growth parameters (height and weight Z scores). Multiple regression analysis was performed to evaluate the relative importance of each clinical parameter.

Results:

Only three clinical variables revealed a significant correlation with the histopathology score. The symptom severity score (t = 3.883, p = 0.0003) demonstrated a positive correlation. The two others, age at diagnosis (t = 3.076, p = 0.0032) and duration of symptoms (t = ‐2.987, p = 0.0041), revealed a negative correlation.

Conclusions:

We conclude that more severe clinical symptoms of a shorter duration, presented at a younger age, are better predictors of a more severe form of small bowel histopathology in children with celiac disease.
Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies in Children with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Prevalence and Diagnostic Value
Authors: Olives Jean‐Pierre , Breton Anne , Hugot Jean‐Pierre , Oksman Françoise , Johannet Catherine , Ghisolfi Jacques , Navarro Jean , Cézard Jean‐Pierre
Published: February 2024

Background

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA), particularly perinuclear ANCA (p‐ANCA), have been found more frequently in sera from patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) than in sera from Crohn's disease (CD) or unclassified enterocolitis (UE) patients. This 2‐center study examined sera from 102 pediatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to evaluate their diagnostic value and assess their relationship with disease features, distribution, activity and treatment.

Methods

The serum ANCA of 102 children with IBD were measured: 33 UC, 64 CD and 5 UE with various disease locations and degrees of activity. The mean age at the onset of symptoms was 10.7 years (1 to 16.3 years). Sera from 26 unaffected first degree relatives and 20 children without IBD were also investigated. ANCA were detected using indirect immunofluorescence of ethanol‐fixed granulocytes.

Results

There were ANCA in the sera of 24/33 children with UC (73%), 9/64 with CD (14%) and 4/5 with UE (80%). p‐ANCA were more frequent than cytoplasmic‐ANCA in positive sera: UC = 67%, CD = 57% and UE = 75%. The presence of ANCA was 73% sensitive and 81% specific for a diagnosis of UC, compared to other IBD (p < 0.001). Three children with proved sclerosing cholangitis associated with UC were all positive. There was no link between ANCA‐positive sera and disease activity, or other endoscopic or clinical criteria. ANCA were detected in 4/26 first degree relatives (15%) and in 1/20 control subjects (5%).

Conclusions

Because of their sensitivity and specificity, ANCA may be helpful in the clinical assessment of patients with IBD, and especially those with UC. However, there is no link between the pressure of p‐ANCA and the site of UC or its activity, so that it cannot be used to monitor medical treatment or surgical indications.
Clinical Outcome of Ulcerative Proctitis in Children
Authors: Hyams Jeffrey , Davis Patricia , Lerer Trudy , Colletti Richard B. , Bousvaros Athos , Leichtner Alan , Benkov Keith , Justinich Christopher , Markowitz James
Published: February 2024

Background

Although the course of ulcerative proctitis in adults has been well described, little data are available concerning its clinical behavior in children and adolescents. This study sought to characterize the presentation, response to therapy, and long‐term course of ulcerative proctitis in the pediatric population.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted at five pediatric gastroenterology centers.

Results

A total of 38 subjects (mean age 11.6 years) were identified with ulcerative proctitis (mean follow‐up 4.3 years). Symptoms were mild at diagnosis in 74% and moderate or severe in 26%. Thirty‐two percent had a complaint of constipation at presentation. Cessation of symptoms was noted in 68% within 3 months of therapy, an additional 24% within 6 months, and 8% were still symptomatic despite 6 months of therapy. During any subsequent yearly follow‐up interval, ≈55% of patients were asymptomatic, 40% had a chronic intermittent course, and <5% were continuously symptomatic despite therapy. Eight subjects were treated with oral corticosteroids, one with 6‐mercaptopurine, and one with cyclosporine. Extension of inflammation proximal to the rectosigmoid occurred in 11 of 38 subjects (29%), 0.5‐11.3 years postdiagnosis. Seven of the 13 subjects (54%) followed for ≥5 years had proximal extension of disease, and two had undergone colectomy.

Conclusions

Despite a mild presentation in most subjects, ulcerative proctitis seems to have a high risk of proximal extension of disease. The overall response to therapy seems to be similar to that reported for ulcerative colitis in children. Follow‐up endoscopic evaluation of patients with ulcerative proctitis seems warranted, especially in the setting of recurrent or recalcitrant symptoms.
Whey Deionization Method of Infant Formula Affects Plasma Lipids
Authors: Weizman Zvi , Ursacha Cathy , Shany Shraga , Leader Drora , Zegerman Chaim
Published: February 2024

Background:

Casein has proved to be hypercholesterolemic. According to results of previous studies, the casein‐to‐whey ratio in infant formula influences plasma lipid profile. This study explored whether different methods of whey deionization also affect levels of plasma lipids.

Methods:

Two types of a whey‐predominant (whey 60%:casein 40%) formula which differed only in the methods used for whey deionization (ultrafiltration or electrodialysis), were fed to healthy newborn infants for 60 days, using a prospective, double‐blind, randomized design. Formulas were otherwise identical in composition.

Results:

Groups were similar in gestational age, gender, birth weight, and growth parameters. Evaluation of fasting plasma levels after 60 days revealed significantly higher values of total cholesterol (p < 0.001) and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (p < 0.001) in infants fed ultrafiltrated whey compared with the same values in infants fed electrodialyzed whey. Plasma levels in the two groups of very low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides revealed no statistically significant differences.

Conclusions:

Plasma lipid profile in infancy is influenced by dietary protein, not only by the casein‐to‐whey ratio, but also by the method of whey deionization.
Human Milk Protein Does Not Limit Growth of Breast‐Fed Infants
Authors: Motil Kathleen J. , Sheng Hwai‐Ping , Montandon Corinne M. , Wong William W.
Published: February 2024

Background:

The efficiency with which breast‐ and formula‐fed infants utilize dietary nutrients is likely to provide insight into their relative requirements for the growth process.

Methods:

We measured longitudinal changes in growth, body composition, and dietary intakes in breast‐ and formula‐fed infants and estimated the gross efficiency with which dietary nitrogen and energy were used for lean body mass and body fat deposition. Lean body mass and body fat were determined in 10 breast‐fed and 10 formula‐fed infants at 6‐week intervals during the first 24 weeks of life by the 18O dilution technique. Dietary nitrogen and energy intakes were determined from the amount of milk and food consumed and the nutrient content of the feedings. The gross efficiency of nutrient utilization was calculated for each infant from the cumulative dietary intake and the change in body composition with time.

Results:

Length and weight gains and lean body mass and body fat accretion during the first 24 weeks of life were similar between breast‐ and formula‐fed infants despite significantly higher nitrogen and energy intakes of the formula‐fed group. The gross efficiency of dietary nitrogen utilization for lean body mass deposition was almost two‐fold lower in formula‐ than in breast‐fed infants, whereas the efficiency of dietary energy utilization for lean body mass and body fat deposition was similar between groups. Despite apparent differences in the efficiency of nitrogen utilization, there was no association between lean body mass deposition and dietary protein intake, implying that human milk protein does not limit growth quantitatively in breast‐fed infants.

Conclusions:

These differences in nutrient utilization illustrate the biologic adaptability of human infants who are quipped with mechanisms that promote normal growth despite the variability of their nutrient intake.
Luminal Stability of Insulin‐Like Growth Factors I and II in Developing Rat Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Rao R. K. , Philipps A. F. , Williams C. S. , McCracken D. M. , Koldovsky O.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Insulin‐like growth factors (IGF)‐I and ‐II are present in milk of a number of mammalian species. The stability of IGF‐I and ‐II in the intestinal lumen was investigated by measuring the proteolytic degradation of125 I‐labeled IGF‐I and IGF‐II by rat (suckling and adult) intestinal luminal flushings in vitro.

Methods:

Degradation of 125I‐labeled IGF‐I and IGF‐II was assessed by measuring the generation of acid‐soluble radioactivity and the reduction of the amounts of peak activity (gel filtration). Degradation was confirmed by measuring the loss of immunoreactivity and receptor activity.

Results:

Incubation of 125I‐IGF‐I with midjejunal luminal flushings from 12‐day‐old suckling rats generated acid‐soluble radioactivity in a time‐ and dose‐(flushing) dependent manner, whereas incubation of 125I‐IGF‐II produced only minor amounts of acid‐soluble radioactivity. Degradation activity in luminal flushings from adult rat intestine was several times greater than that in luminal flushings from suckling rats. Degradation of125 I‐IGF‐II was several times lower than that of 125I‐IGF‐I in the intestinal luminal flushings from suckling and adult rats. The rate of decrease in immunoprecipitable 125I‐IGF‐I was considerably lower than the rate of decrease in receptor‐active radioactivity. Except for immunoreactivity, analyses of acid‐precipitable, peak‐A, and receptor‐active radioactivities demonstrate that IGF‐II is relatively more stable than IGF‐I in luminal flushings of suckling rat duodenum, jejunum, and midjejunum.

Conclusions:

These results show that the stability of IGF in the gastrointestinal lumen depends on the age of the animal and the segment of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as on the peptide isoform.
Evaluation of an Extensively Hydrolyzed Casein‐Whey Protein Formula in Immediate Cow's Milk Protein Hypersensitivity
Authors: Martín‐Esteban Manuel , García‐Ara Maria Carmen , Banqué‐Molas Montserrat , Boyano‐Martínez Maria Teresa , Martín‐Muñoz Flor , Díaz‐Pena José Maria
Published: February 2024

Background:

Hydrolysate formulas are safe for most infants who are allergic to cow's milk. The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical tolerance and safety of an extensively hydrolyzed casein‐whey protein formula in a homogeneous group of patients with immediate cow's milk hypersensitivity.

Methods:

The study population consisted of 33 infants in whom immediate cow's milk protein allergy had been diagnosed by clinical data, evidence of specific immunoglobulin E antibodies, and positive results in a controlled challenge test with cow's milk proteins.

Results:

The hydrolysate was well tolerated in 31 of the 33 patients, which represented a 94% effectiveness. Using 95% confidence intervals generated for a binomial outcome (reaction‐no reaction), the casein‐whey protein formula is tolerated by 84.4% to 99% of infants with immediate immunoglobulin‐E‐mediated cow's milk protein allergy. These figures are in the range of values recommended for this type of product.

Conclusions:

This extensively hydrolyzed casein‐whey protein formula is generally safe to feed children with immediate hypersensitivity to cow's milk. However, it is advisable that the first intakes be given under direct medical supervision, in that the occurrence of adverse reactions in highly sensitive infants cannot be unequivocally excluded.
Epithelial Growth of the Small Intestine in Human Infants
Authors: Thompson Fiona M. , Catto‐Smith Anthony G. , Moore David , Davidson Geoff , Cummins Adrian G.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Findings in studies in rodents have suggested that epithelial growth of the small intestine is dependent on activation of the immune system. The purpose of this study was to compare changes of postnatal epithelial growth with immunologic activity in humans.

Methods:

Duodenal biopsies were obtained by endoscopy from 74 infants. Villus area, crypt length, and mitotic count were measured, using a microdissection technique. Enterocyte height, intraepithelial lymphocytes and mucosal mast cells were recorded in histologic sections, and soluble interleukin‐2 receptor levels were measured in sera. These data were compared with those from 77 adult control subjects.

Results:

Mean ± SD villus area was similar in infants compared with that in adults (0.364 ± 0.108 mm2 vs. 0.339 ± 0.1 mm2); but mean crypt length was 31% longer (270 ± 56 μm vs. 206 ± 29 μm; p < 0.0001), and mitotic count was 68% higher (4.2± 2.8 vs. 2.5 ± 1 per crypt; p < 0.0001) in infants. Enterocyte height was lower during infancy (27.0 ± 3.4 μm vs. 30.9 ± 4.6 μm; p < 0.0001). There was no evidence of a trophic effect on the small intestine of breast feeding compared with the effect of bottle feeding. Counts of intraepithelial lymphocytes but not mucosal mast cells were significantly less in infants. Mean soluble interleukin‐2 receptor levels peaked during early infancy, compared with levels in adults (1,820 ± 596 U/ml vs. 695 ± 359 U/ml).

Conclusion:

These results indicate that epithelial proliferation is increased during infancy at an age when immunologic activity is high.
Efficacy of a Glutamine‐Based Oral Rehydration Solution on the Electrolyte and Water Absorption in a Rabbit Model of Secretory Diarrhea Induced by Cholera Toxin
Authors: Silva Alessandra C. , Santos‐Neto Messias S. , Soares Alberto M. , Fonteles Manassés C. , Guerrant Richard L. , Lima Aldo A. M.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Glutamine is absorbed in the intestinal tract coupled with sodium and is the principla metabolic substrate for the enterocyte. Therefore, an oral rehydration solution containing this substance might provide an effective oral means of restoring electrolyte losses as well as speeding repair of mucosal damage. The objective of this work was to investigate the use of an oral rehydration solution based on glutamine in vivo in the perfused rabbit ileal loop model of secretory diarrhea induced by choleratoxin.

Methods:

Phenolsulfonphthalein (PSP, 50 mg/l) was used as a nonabsorbable marker for calculations of net water and electrolyte transport. Solutions tested included: (a) a glutaminebased oral rehydration solution with 111 mmol/l glutamine, (Gln‐ORS); (b) the oral rehydration solution recommended by the World Health Organization; (c) modified Ringer's solution. Choleratoxin (1μg/ml) was injected into the lumen of the ileal rabbit segments for 30 minutes prior to the initiation of the perfusion.

Results:

Choleratoxin induced significant secretion of sodium in the control modified Ringer's solution (10.8 ± 2.95 vs ‐14.05 ± 5.95μEq/g/min, n = 10; p < 0.01) and of water (0.06± 0.03 vs ‐0.15 ± 0.06 ml/g/min, n = 10; p< 0.01) with a maximum effect at 60 minutes after initiation of perfusion. World Health Organization oral rehydration solution was able to significantly reduce the intestinal secretion of sodium (control with cholera = ‐14.34± 2.18 vs oral rehydration solution with cholera = ‐0.50 ± 0.48μEq/g/min, n = 10; p < 0.01) and water (‐0.15± 0.02 vs ‐0.012 ± 0.005 ml/g/min, n = 10; p< 0.01). For comparison, glutamine‐based oral rehydration solution had an even greater effect on sodium and water absorption (glutamine‐based oral rehydration solution with choleratoxin = 10.31 ± 1.21 μEq/g/min,n = 5; p < 0.01 for sodium and 0.08 ± 0.008 ml water/g/min; n = 5; p < 0.01). Choleratoxin did not change the effect of glutamine‐based oral rehydration solution on sodium and water absorption (12.90 ± ‐1.09 μEq sodium/g/min, n = 5; and 0.11 ± 0.01 ml water/g/min; n = 5). In addition glutamine‐based oral rehydration solution also induced a greater absorption of potassium and chloride in the intestinal ileal segments treated with cholera toxin compared with World Health Organization glutamin‐based oral rehydration solution.

Conclusions:

These results demonstrate the superior efficacy of glutamine‐based oral rehydration solution in electrolyte and water absorption compared with modified Ringer's control solution or even with World Health Organization‐recommended oral rehydration solution.
Gastroesophageal Reflux in Preterm Infants: Norms for Extended Distal Esophageal pH Monitoring
Authors: Ng Steven Chin‐Yuen , Quak Seng‐Hock
Published: February 2024

Background:

Preterm infants are predisposed to gastroesophageal reflux, which may manifest itself in many ways ranging from failure to thrive to vomiting. Extended distal esophageal pH monitoring is the gold standard for diagnosing reflux in the preterm infants and it is our objective to establish extended distal esophageal pH norms (reference values) for well, asymptomatic preterm infants and to compare with norms already established for term infants, children, adolescents, and adults.

Methods:

Twenty‐one well, asymptomatic preterm infants consuming at least 70% of required maintenance oral feedings were recruited. The mean ± standard deviation birth weight was 1549 ± 439 g (range, 670‐2470 g); the mean postconceptional age was 30.7 ± 2.6 weeks (range, 25‐35 weeks) and the mean postnatal age was 14 ± 9 days (range, 2‐40 days). Extended distal esophageal pH monitoring was performed on each of the infants, and the following parameters were calculated: reflux index, number of reflux episodes per day, number of reflux episodes lasting more than 5 minutes per day, and the longest recorded reflux episode.

Results:

The mean reflux index was 0.7 ± 1.1%, the mean number of reflux episodes per day was 7.6 ± 11.2, the mean number of reflux episodes lasting more than 5 minutes per day was 0.5 ± 1.1 and the mean longest recorded reflux episode was 4.2 ± 6.1 minutes. These results were comparable to those seen in term infants, children, adolescents, and adults. The trends for pH norms according to postconceptional age and postnatal age seemed to suggest that lower esophageal sphincter maturation might be related to postconceptional age, but the differences observed were not statistically significant (p > 0.05).

Conclusion:

The norms (reference values) for well, asymptomatic preterm infants were comparable to those seen in term infants, children, adolescents, and adults. With the establishment of these norms, the search for a causal link between many of the respiratory problems encountered in prematurity and gastroesophageal reflux may be aided and the complications associated with gastroesophageal reflux may consequently be reduced.
Evaluation of Iron Bioavailability in Infant Weaning Foods Fortified with Haem Concentrate
Authors: Martinez Carmen , Fox Tom , Eagles John , Fairweather‐Tait Susan
Published: February 2024

Background:

Nutritional iron deficiency in infants over 4 months of age is one of the most common deficiency disorders. Dietary iron is comprised of non‐haem and haem iron, the latter being absorbed by a separate pathway and more efficiently than non‐haerm iron. Fortification of infant weaning foods is one of the strategies adopted for preventing iron deficiency and the aim of this project was to examine the potential use of haem iron concentrate as a fortificant.

Methods:

Sixteen non‐anaemic 6‐month old infants were recruited and allocated to two groups of 8. Each infant consumed 2 meals/day of a commercial weaning food (100 g) for 7 consecutive days containing 40 mg ascorbic acid and 2.5 mg haem iron/100 g (Group 1) or the same quantity of iron as ferrous sulphate plus 40 mg ascorbic acid (Group 2). Bioavailability was assessed by chemical balance using carmine to mark the beginning and end of the faecal collection. The effect of haem iron concentrate (as a candidate for the factor in meat that enhances iron absorption) was examined by measuring its effect on 57Fe‐labelled non‐haem iron absorption.

Results:

There was no difference in iron balance between the two groups. Mean iron retention was 3.5 (SD 2.1) mg/day in Group 1 (haem iron) and 3.0 (SD 2.4) mg/day in Group 2 (ferrous sulphate). Haem concentrate did not enhance the absorption of 57Fe‐labelled non‐haem iron, Group 1: 1710 (SD 11.1)%, Group 2: 28.4 (SD 17.7)%.

Conclusions:

Haem iron concentrate appears to be a highly bioavailable form of iron when added to infant weaning foods. This protein is not, however, responsible for the enhancing effect of animal protein on non‐haem iron absorption.
Celiac crisis, transient hypertransaminasemia and positive smooth muscle antibodies (SMA): A celiac disease case report
Authors: Rodofile Federica , Melli Paola , Di Siena Andrea , Cogo Paola
Published: February 2024

Celiac crisis (CC) is a rare complication of celiac disease (CD), usually observed in younger children with unrecognized CD or poor compliance with a gluten‐free diet (GFD). We present a case of celiac crisis in a 3‐year‐old girl who was recently diagnosed with celiac disease. She was referred to our clinic with anasarca, tetany, and severe malnutrition, with hypokalemia, hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, and hypoalbuminemia. During hospitalization, she presented hypertransaminasemia with positive anti‐actin smooth muscle antibodies (SMA). Abdominal ultrasound and liver biopsy were normal, excluding autoimmune hepatitis. Liver involvement is a common CD extraintestinal manifestation and cryptogenic form is the most common. SMA positivity could be associated with a systemic immune cross reaction. Our patient normalized liver values after 2 months of GFD.