bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In search of a neuropsychological profile for migraine: A scoping review
Authors: Richardson Shannon , Diaz‐Orueta Unai
Published: February 2024

Objective

Migraine is commonly overlooked by the general population and by professionals in research and clinical practice. Moreover, it is difficult to grasp the neuropsychological profile of migraineurs due to the cyclic nature of the disorder. With this in mind, a scoping review of the literature was conducted with the goal of characterizing cognitive domains associated with deficits in migraine.

Methods

PubMed, PsychInfo, Scopus, EMBASE and OpenGrey databases were searched for studies published from 1st January 2006 to 30th November 2022. Following the review process, 52 eligible studies were included in the review.

Results

Studies included in this review show mixed and sometimes contradictory findings. Overall, both visual and auditory perception appear to be impaired. Deficits on attention, many memory processes, visuospatial function and spatial navigation and on a wide range of executive functions (set‐shifting and cognitive flexibility, decision‐making and reasoning, working memory and prospective memory) complete a complex cognitive profile in migraine. Lack of consistency across studies in sample selection and sizes, lack of detailed links between cognitive deficits and specific migraine phases, or length and chronicity, inconsistencies on the role of aura in cognitive function; and heterogeneity and sometimes questionable reliability and validity of some of the cognitive measures used may affect the clarity and consistency of results observed.

Conclusion

Further research properly addressing the role of gender and age, migraine stage, length and chronicity of the condition, the effect of aura and comorbidities is needed, alongside increasing consistency across diverse neuropsychological assessment protocols.

Significance

This review provides a comprehensive, up‐to‐date picture of the current status of knowledge in relation to the characterization of the complex cognitive profile of migraine. It offers detailed information of the existing research gaps and challenges to improve the cognitive characterization of migraine across its different stages and leads clinicians to carefully consider the selection of relevant cognitive tasks, in order to grasp more accurately the patient’s cognitive profile; an assessment that should be an integral part of any protocol developed for the clinical assessment and subsequent treatment planning for migraine.
Seven weeks of pectoralis muscle stretching does not induce non‐local effects in dorsiflexion ankle range of motion
Authors: Konrad Andreas , Reiner Marina , Manieu Josefina , Fischer Josef , Schöpflin Adrian , Tilp Markus , Behm David George
Published: February 2024

Both an acute bout, as well as chronic static stretching (SS), can increase the joint range of motion (ROM). However, ROM increases of a non‐stretched muscle (non‐local) are reported following an acute SS session, and these effects have not been studied for long‐term SS training. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of a comprehensive 7‐week SS training program of the pectoralis muscles on ankle dorsiflexion ROM. Thirty‐three healthy, physically active participants (20 male and 13 female) were assigned to either the SS (n = 18) or the control (n = 15) group. The SS group performed a 7‐week SS intervention that comprised three sessions a week, including three exercises of the pectoralis muscles for 5‐min each. Before and after the intervention period, the ankle dorsiflexion ROM was tested with a dynamometer. There was no significant time (p = 0.93, F1,31 = 0.008; η2 = 0.000) or time x group effect (p = 0. 56, F1,31 = 0.342; η2 = 0.011) in ankle dorsiflexion ROM, indicating no changes in ROM in the intervention as well as the control group. Although previous studies on the acute effects of stretching reported non‐local increases in ROM, our study showed no such changes after 7 weeks of SS training. Consequently, if the goal is to chronically increase the ROM of a specific joint, it is recommended to directly stretch the muscles of interest.
Integrating perspectives on ecology, conservation value, and policy of bee pollinator seed mixes
Authors: Müller Uta , Bruninga‐Socolar Bethanne , Brokaw Julia , Cariveau Daniel P , Williams Neal M
Published: February 2024

Wildflower plantings are an effective tool for mitigating floral resource scarcity, a major factor contributing to global declines in pollinator populations. However, the configuration of seed mixes for such plantings can encompass two different conservation goals: namely, the enhancement of a regulating ecosystem service (pollination) or the promotion of diverse pollinator communities, including rare or threatened species. According to which goal is prioritized, seed mixes consequently require different designs and implementation approaches. Here, we review common elements of wildflower seed mixes for native bees and highlight differences in application between the two conservation goals. Our focus on bees stems from agreement among different world regions to their functional value as pollinators and concern about recent global declines in their populations. We link the ecology of seed mixes with current challenges in US and EU policies supporting seed mix implementation. Finally, we advocate not only for clarity in goal setting, which will promote tailored seed mix design and application, but also for a reimagination of seed mix policies to increase their effectiveness for pollinator conservation.
Forecasting GDP growth: The economic impact of COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Vrontos Ioannis D. , Galakis John , Panopoulou Ekaterini , Vrontos Spyridon D.
Published: February 2024

The primary goal of this study is to effectively measure the impact of a severe random shock, such as the COVID‐19 pandemic on aggregate economic activity in Greece, seven other euro area economies, three Scandinavian countries, and the United States. The class of linear and quantile predictive regression models is proposed for the analysis of real gross domestic product (GDP) growth, and a Bayesian approach for model selection is developed, by using a computationally flexible Markov chain Monte Carlo stochastic search algorithm that explores the posterior distribution of linear and quantile models, and identifies the relevant predictor variables. Penalized likelihood regression models are also implemented to tackle the issue of model selection. The model confidence set approach is applied and verifies that the selected models identified by the stochastic search algorithm belong to the set of superior models. Our analysis confirms that the outbreak of the pandemic had a profound effect on the economies under study, and reveals that different predictor variables are able to explain different quantiles of the underlying real GDP growth distribution for analyzed countries, suggesting that the quantile modeling approach improves the ability to adequately explain real GDP series compared with the standard conditional mean approach that explains only the average of the relationship between real GDP growth and several predictor variables.
PMP2 regulates myelin thickening and ATP production during remyelination
Authors: Hong Jiayue , Garfolo Rebekah , Kabre Sejal , Humml Christian , Velanac Viktorija , Roué Clémence , Beck Brianna , Jeanette Haley , Haslam Sarah , Bach Martin , Arora Simar , Acheta Jenica , Nave Klaus‐Armin , Schwab Markus H. , Jourd'heuil David , Poitelon Yannick , Belin Sophie
Published: February 2024

It is well established that axonal Neuregulin 1 type 3 (NRG1t3) regulates developmental myelin formation as well as EGR2‐dependent gene activation and lipid synthesis. However, in peripheral neuropathy disease context, elevated axonal NRG1t3 improves remyelination and myelin sheath thickness without increasing Egr2 expression or activity, and without affecting the transcriptional activity of canonical myelination genes. Surprisingly, Pmp2, encoding for a myelin fatty acid binding protein, is the only gene whose expression increases in Schwann cells following overexpression of axonal NRG1t3. Here, we demonstrate PMP2 expression is directly regulated by NRG1t3 active form, following proteolytic cleavage. Then, using a transgenic mouse model overexpressing axonal NRG1t3 (NRG1t3OE) and knocked out for PMP2, we demonstrate that PMP2 is required for NRG1t3‐mediated remyelination. We demonstrate that the sustained expression of Pmp2 in NRG1t3OE mice enhances the fatty acid uptake in sciatic nerve fibers and the mitochondrial ATP production in Schwann cells. In sum, our findings demonstrate that PMP2 is a direct downstream mediator of NRG1t3 and that the modulation of PMP2 downstream NRG1t3 activation has distinct effects on Schwann cell function during developmental myelination and remyelination.
Predicting risk of dementia among the elderly with major depressive disorder in remission: A prospective study
Authors: Lin Yen‐Ju , Huang Mei‐Feng , Yeh Yi‐Chun , Chen Cheng‐Sheng
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Cognitive impairment and change are a focus of research into late‐life depression. The aims of this 5‐year prospective study were (1) to observe cognitive status change; (2) to investigate the rate and risk ratio of dementia or cognitive decline; and (3) to examine the cognitive domain predictors for conversion to dementia within 5 years among a clinical cohort with remitted major depressive disorder (MDD).

Methods

The study cohort included 130 elderly persons with late‐life remitted MDD and 100 normal controls. Comprehensive neuropsychological tests were conducted to determine cognitive domain status. Diagnoses of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia were made at baseline and at a follow‐up visit at the 5‐year point. In total, 98 cases and 55 normal controls completed the 5‐year follow‐up assessment.

Results

Of the study cohort with late‐life remitted MDD, 28.6% had MCI and 25.5% developed dementia within 5 years. Patients with late‐life remitted MDD had an approximate 3 times higher risk of subsequent cognitive decline as compared with the normal controls. Information‐processing speed (p = 0.009) and memory (p = 0.041) could predict subsequent progression to dementia within 5 years among patients with MDD.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that compared with the general elderly population, elderly patients with depression have more significant impairment in cognitive function after 5 years. Further, we found that in depressed patients, deficits in information‐processing speed and memory domains were highly suggestive of progression to dementia within 5 years.
Predicting repeat consumer bankruptcy: A survival analysis of business‐related repeat filings in Australia 2007–2021
Authors: Robinson Catherine , Smith David , Wicht Mark , Rice Amanda , McCosker Gavin , McBride Ignatius
Published: February 2024

Ongoing legislative responses to the impacts of the pandemic have prompted many countries to evaluate whether their bankruptcy systems remain fit for purpose. Moreover, the current climate highlights the importance of data‐driven policy, which the literature identifies as a deficiency of bankruptcy regimes. In Australia, the 2015 reform proposals to reduce the default discharge period from 3 years to 1 year are currently being revised amidst stakeholder concern about potential abuse and repeat bankrupts. Although an extensive body of literature exists on ‘repeat filers’ in the USA, there has been no equivalent study in Australia. Using our data of 153,526 bankruptcies between 2007 and 2021, we conducted a novel application of survival analysis to predict the probability of a repeat bankruptcy comparing business and non‐business groups. The results show that this probability peaked in both male and females with non‐business‐related administrations irrespective of client's age, employment and relationship status. These findings are important as they identify the prospects that certain bankrupt groups have higher rates of repeat bankruptcy, which can inform strategies to improve their survival rate. A significance of our study is the development of a high‐quality longitudinal dataset that facilitates the extension of the data models and allows easy updates about targeted questions involving bankruptcy‐related policy shifts and impacts on sub‐populations. This methodological approach will enable regulators and insolvency experts to address concerns of repeat bankruptcy to guide policy, evaluate reform and extend the evidence base in other jurisdictions.
Long‐term health‐related quality of life in head and neck cancer survivors: A large multinational study
Authors: Taylor Katherine J. , Amdal Cecilie D. , Bjordal Kristin , Astrup Guro L. , Herlofson Bente B. , Duprez Fréderic , Gama Ricardo R. , Jacinto Alexandre , Hammerlid Eva , Scricciolo Melissa , Jansen Femke , Verdonck‐de Leeuw Irma M. , Fanetti Giuseppe , Guntinas‐Lichius Orlando , Inhestern Johanna , Dragan Tatiana , Fabian Alexander , Boehm Andreas , Wöhner Ulrike , Kiyota Naomi , Krüger Maximilian , Bonomo Pierluigi , Pinto Monica , Nuyts Sandra , Silva Joaquim Castro , Stromberger Carmen , Specenier Pol , Tramacere Francesco , Bushnak Ayman , Perotti Pietro , Plath Michaela , Paderno Alberto , Stempler Noa , Kouri Maria , Grégoire Vincent , Singer Susanne ,   the EORTC Quality of Life Group and the EORTC Head and Neck Group
Published: February 2024

Head and neck cancer (HNC) patients suffer from a range of health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) issues, but little is known about their long‐term HRQoL. This study explored associations between treatment group and HRQoL at least 5 years' post‐diagnosis in HNC survivors. In an international cross‐sectional study, HNC survivors completed the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) quality of life core questionnaire (EORTC‐QLQ‐C30) and its HNC module (EORTC‐QLQ‐H&N35). Meaningful HRQoL differences were examined between five treatment groups: (a) surgery, (b) radiotherapy, (c) chemo‐radiotherapy, (d) radiotherapy ± chemotherapy and neck dissection and (e) any other surgery (meaning any tumour surgery that is not a neck dissection) and radiotherapy ± chemotherapy. Twenty‐six sites in 11 countries enrolled 1105 survivors. They had a median time since diagnosis of 8 years, a mean age of 66 years and 71% were male. After adjusting for age, sex, tumour site and UICC stage, there was evidence for meaningful differences (10 points or more) in HRQoL between treatment groups in seven domains (Fatigue,Mouth Pain,Swallowing,Senses,Opening Mouth,Dry MouthandSticky Saliva). Survivors who had single‐modality treatment had better or equal HRQoL in every domain compared to survivors with multimodal treatment, with the largest differences forDry MouthandSticky Saliva. ForGlobal Quality of Life,Physical and Social Functioning,Constipation,Dyspnoea and Financial Difficulties, at least some treatment groups had better outcomes compared to a general population. Our data suggest that multimodal treatment is associated with worse HRQoL in the long‐term compared to single modality.
Evidence for the Possible Relationship of Neonatal Skinfold Thickness to Maternal Glucose Metabolism During the Third Trimester
Authors: Kerner John A. , Stevenson David K. , Hattner Jo Ann , Cohen Ronald S. , Schwartz Herbert C. , Sunshine Philip
Published: February 2024

Forty‐eight infants, including 14 premature infants who were appropriate size for gestational age (AGA), 10 full‐term AGA infants, 18 full‐term infants who were large for gestational age (LGA), and six premature LGA infants of diabetic mothers (IDMs). had measurements of skinfold thickness (SFT) in the first 72 h of life. For the 24 LGA infants, there was a significant positive correlation between maternal glycohemoglobin (Hb AIc.) in the postpartum period and SFT (r = 0.42, p < 0.05). Our observations in this study support those of others, demonstrating that SFT increases with increasing gestational age. In addition, they support the hypothesis that, in diabetic pregnancies, or pregnancies associated with an elevated Hb AIc, a reflection of the time‐integrated blood glucose level over the weeks preceding parturition, fetal hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia stimulate increased triglyceride synthesis in adipose cells and lead to an increase in fetal subcutaneous fat.
Comparison of Acquired Monosaccharide Intolerance and Acute Diarrheal Syndrome
Authors: Jalili Firooz , Smith E. O'Brian , Nichols Veda N. , Mintz A. Aaron , Nichols Buford L.
Published: February 2024

In a retrospective study. 9% of the admissions to Ben Taub General Hospital for diarrhea were found to have acquired monosaccharide intolerance (AMI). The course of AMI was compared with that of acute diarrheal syndrome (ADS). The patients with AMI were younger at the time of admission, and, although the mean birthweight and percent of prematurity were approximately the same in the two groups, the AMI patients were found to be malnourished (p < 0.02). Data suggest that the nutritional insult had occurred between birth and admission, and that malnutrition was a contributing factor in the development of AMI.
Rapid Changes of Serum Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide After Removal of Ganglioneuroblastoma with Watery‐Diarrhea‐ Hypokalemia‐ Achlorhydria Syndrome in a Child
Authors: Funato Masahisa , Fujimura Masanori , Shimada Seiichi , Takeuchi Toru , Kozuki Kiyoshi , Iida Yoshihiko
Published: February 2024

A 23‐month‐old girl with intractable diarrhea that had persisted for the past 6 months showed typical evidence of wa‐ter‐diarrhea‐hypokalemia‐achlorhydria (WDHA) syndrome. Serum vasoactive intestinal peptide (VlP)‐like immunoactivity was very high, and urine homovanillic acid and noradrenaline were also abnormally increased. A calcified tumor in the right paravertebral region was noted radiologically. Soon after resection of the tumor, the diarrhea dramatically improved. A ganglioneuroblastoma was histologically confirmed. Serum VIP decreased to normal level at 1 h after the removal of the tumor. VIP activity in the tumor was extraordinarily high, and the cells were stained by the indirect immunofluorescence technique with anti‐VIP serum. This is to report the rapid turnover of serum level of VIP after resection of ganglioneuroblasoma with WDHA syndrome in a child.
Comparison of the Pediatric Broviac Silastic Catheter with a Standard No. 3 French Silastic Catheter for Central Venous Alimentation
Authors: Maksimak Martin , Ament Marvin E. , Fonkalsrud Eric W.
Published: February 2024

Two No. 3 French silastic central venous catheters designed for infants, a pediatric Broviac catheter, and a standard infant catheter were used in 41 (group I) and 33 infants (group II), respectively, to compare the effectiveness of each in providing access to the central venous circulation. Group I patients used 52 Broviac catheters or 1.2 catheters per patient for an average of 75 days per catheter. Thirty‐five patients had one catheter placed. Group II patients had 66 catheters or 2.0 catheters per patient for an average of 45 days per catheter. One episode of sepsis occurred for every 1.950 days of usage in group I, but in group II, one episode occurred every 750 days. Eight of 52 catheter placements in group I were associated with localized infections at the catheter insertion site, but this was the case with only two of 66 catheters in group II. Dislodgement of the catheter occurred four times as frequently in group II as compared with group I. Repair of cracked catheters was successfully completed in 90% of those in group I, but none in group II. The pediatric Broviac catheter proved to be more durable than a standard No. 3 French silastic catheter.
The Physiologic and Pathologic Basis for the Transport of Macromolecules Across the Intestinal Tract
Authors: Udall J. N. , Walker W. A.
Published: February 2024

Transport of intact macromolecules across the intestine probably occurs in all mammalian species. It appears to be greatest early in life. The degree to which it occurs may be related to normalcy of gastric, pancreatic, and small intestinal function.
Results of Feeding a Special Formula to Very Low Birth Weight Infants
Authors: Curran John S. , Barness Lewis A. , Brown David R. , Holzman Ian R. , Rathi Manohar L. , Silverio John , Tomarelli Rudolph
Published: February 2024

Fifty‐eight premature infants weighing less than 1.600 g at birth were fed a special formula. The formula contained nutrients in amounts recommended by the Committee on Nutrition of the American Academy of Pediatrics for very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. The feeding studies were carried out at newborn nurseries in Tampa. Florida (study A. n = 25). Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (study B, n = 20). and Oaklawn. Illinois (study C. n = 13). Study subjects were comparable in birth weight, gestational age, and in the duration of follow‐up in the nurseries. All study subjects grew at rates of weight acquisition equivalent to the comparative fetal counterpart. Routine anthropometric measurements were similar to those of fetal development curves. Mean protein intake ranged from 2.3 to 3.7 g/kg/day and mean caloric intake from 105 to 150 kcal/kg/day. Late metabolic acidosis in association with prematurity was absent in all subjects studied as demonstrated by normal pH values, bicarbonate, and partial pressure of carbon dioxide. Serum sodium and serum chloride levels were normal. Serum calcium ranged from 8.3 to 10.1 mg/dl and serum phosphorus from 6.0 to 7.5 mg/dl. Total serum protein levels ranged from 4.5 to 5.1 g/dl. Blood urea nitrogen diminished progressively from 5.1 to 2 mg/dl in the course of the study. Serum glucose levels in samples taken prior to and 2 h after feeding did not demonstrate any evidence of reactive hypoglycemia.
Chick Embryo Intestine in Culture
Authors: Moog Florence , Goellner Joseph J.
Published: February 2024

The development of alkaline phosphatase, maltase, and sucrase activities in the duodenum of the chick embryo was followed in organ culture in chemically defined medium; 14‐day duodenum was used in most experiments, with comparisons being made with 18‐day tissue. As has been previously shown for the other enzymes, sucrase activity also rises at an accelerated rate in vitro. Since chick sucrase has maltase activity, its increase appears to account for the spontaneous rise of maltase activity; the form of maltase devoid of sucrase activity seems not to be accelerated. Sucrase, sucrase‐free maltase, and alkaline phosphatase are all elevated by the addition of insulin to the medium. Intestinal sucrase is well known to be responsive to hydrocortisone, but it has now been found to be unresponsive to thyroxine, except that its dissociation from the brush border is increased at hormone concentrations above 1 nM. Insulin and thyroxine act synergistically on alkaline phosphatase, but the addition of hydrocortisone diminishes the effect of the other two. With sucrase, insulin and hydrocortisone have a synergistic effect which is intensified by addition of thyroxine. The previously demonstrated influence of hydrocortisone on maltase is accounted for by the maltase activity of sucrase. In combination, however, hydrocortisone and thyroxine elevate maltase much more strongly than sucrase, and the highest maltase levels were attained when all three hormones were present.
Autoradiographic Localization of a Gluten Peptide During Organ Culture of Human Duodenal Mucosa
Authors: Fluge G. , Aksnes L.
Published: February 2024

An 125I‐labeled subfraction of Frazer's fraction III (molecular weight, 8,000) was added to the culture medium during organ culture of duodenal biopsies from two patients with celiac disease in exacerbation. The iso‐tope‐labeled gluten peptide was localized by autoradiography after 6, 12, and 24 h of culture. At 6 h, labeling was located mainly in the basal layers of the biopsies. The tissue was well preserved. After 12 h in culture, the labeling had spread to the lamina propria and the crypts. A few grains were located over enterocytes and desquamated cells. Moderate histological signs of toxicity were observed. After 24 h, there was marked toxic deterioration, comparable to that seen after culture with α‐gliadin. Labeling had spread throughout the entire section. There seemed to be no specificity of the binding, for the entire section was affected. Culture with the identical gluten fraction, in the radionegative state, produced histological deterioration comparable to that seen after exposure to the isotope‐labeled peptide. Gluten peptides are presented to the target cells in a unique way during organ culture, different from in vivo conditions. This may influence the results when the organ culture method is used to investigate the pathogenesis of celiac disease.
Moderate and Severe Protein Energy Malnutrition in Childhood
Authors: Römer Hans , Urbach Raquel , Gomez Maria A. , Lopez Amadita , Perozo‐Ruggeri Gladys , Vegas Maria Enriqueta
Published: February 2024

The enzymatic activities of maltase, sucrase, and lactase were determined in jejunal biopsies obtained from 24 children with gastrointestinal symptoms and different degrees of protein energy malnutrition (PEM) to see if these differences were related to the extent of malnutrition or concomitant small intestinal mucosal injury. Even in patients with moderate PEM, lactase activities were significantly lower than control values. The decrease in lactase activity seemed to depend on the severity of malnutrition. In contrast, maltase and sucrase activities were decreased only in second and third degrees of PEM, while no significant changes were observed in first degree and marasmic kwashiorkor. Histologically, all children with PEM had grade I to II mucosal injury which did not correlate with the degree of malnutrition. These results indicate that PEM affects each of the disaccharidases of the jejunal mucosa differently, with lactase being most sensitive to PEM and reflecting most closely the degree of PEM. In contrast, morphological changes showed no correlation with the degree of PEM.
Energy Needs and Nutritional Rehabilitation in Undernourished Adolescents and Young Adult Patients with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Pencharz P. , Hill R. , Archibald E. , Levy L. , Newth C.
Published: February 2024

The energy needs, nutritional status and body composition of 6 undernourished adolescents and young adults with cystic fibrosis (3 male and 3 female) were studied prior to and following a 12 day period of refeeding. Nutritional rehabilitation was attempted with continuous naso‐gastric feeding of an elemental diet. The energy needs of the patients were shown to be 25–80% higher than in healthy individuals of the same age, sex and size. Lean body mass as judged by measurement of total body potassium and nitrogen was relatively well preserved, but there was significant wasting of adipose tissue. During the short period of refeeding, body weight, fat and potassium all increased significantly, while fat free body mass and total body nitrogen did not change.

A model is proposed for the aetiology of undernutrition in the adolescent and young adult cystic with deteriorating lung function. Based on this model and the finding of the short‐term N/G refeeding program described in this paper, we have embarked on a long‐term supplementation study in malnourished CF patients who do not respond to dietary counselling and oral supplementation.
Fetal Forms of Oligoaminopeptidase, Dipeptidylaminopeptidase IV, and Sucrase in Human Intestine and Meconium
Authors: Auricchio Salvatore , Caporale Carlo , Santamaria Francesca , Skovbjerg Hanne
Published: February 2024

Particles of meconium sedimenting at 105,000 g contain sucrase and various brush border peptidase activities. Oligoaminopeptidase, dipeptidylaminopeptidase, and sucrase solubilized by papain from meconium particles of preterm newborns or from brush border of human fetuses during the 4th month of gestation were compared with the same enzymes prepared from adult jejunal and ileal brush border. The following are characteristics of fetal intestinal brush border enzymes: (a) a faster anodal electrophoretic mobility in polyacrylamide and in agar gel; (b) the same specific activity, as measured by quantitative crossed immunoelectrophoresis utilizing an antiserum against adult brush border membranes; (c) complete fusion of the immunoprecipitation lines with the adult enzymes by using the same antiserum; and (d) a different binding pattern to Helix pomatia lectin and lentil lectin. The results suggest that the charge difference between adult and fetal human brush border enzymes, which causes the difference in the gel electrophoretic mobility, is most probably due, at least in part, to differences in carbohydrate composition of these glycoproteins. Extensive neuraminidase digestion causes no or only minor changes of the electrophoretic mobility of the meconial enzymes. The difference between adult and meconial enzymes is therefore apparently not, or not only, due to different sialic acid content. These results suggest that many intestinal brush border enzymes in fetal life and at birth are in forms structurally different from those in adult life.
Fecal α1‐Antitrypsin Clearance in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Grill Bruce B. , Hillemeier A. Craig , Gryboski Joyce D.
Published: February 2024

We evaluated fecal clearance of α1‐antitrypsin (α1‐AT) as a method of detecting and quantitating intestinal protein loss in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. We investigated α1‐AT clearance () in 14 patients (seven with Crohn's disease, seven with ulcerative colitis) and in 10 children with gastrointestinal disorders and normal serum albumin values who served as controls. The inflammatory bowel disease patients were analyzed for nutritional status, intestinal absorption, disease activity and distribution, and presence or absence of rectal bleeding. α1‐AT was measured in stool (72‐h collections) and serum by radial immunodiffusion, and the clearance was calculated. The mean in patients with inflammatory bowel disease was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than that of the controls. in the former patients was inversely related to the serum albumin level (p < 0.001), but not to disease activity, medications, absorption, nutritional status, or moderate rectal bleeding. In the patients with Crohn's disease there was a trend to increased from only ileal to diffuse small intestinal disease involvement. We conclude that in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, fecal clearance of α1‐AT is a useful method for quantitating intestinal protein loss, and that moderate rectal bleeding does not affect the determination.
Chronic Diarrhea Due to VIPoma in Two Children
Authors: Socha J. , Dobrzaska A. , Rowecka K. , Cichy W. , Biera J. , Stodulski J. , Woniewicz B.
Published: February 2024

The diagnosis of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide‐secreting tumor (VIPoma) was established in two boys on the basis of watery diarrhea with hypokalemia, elevated plasma levels of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) (range of 55–94 pmol/L), and presence of a tumor of the left adrenal gland. Despite celiac angiography, VIP estimation in blood samples taken from different parts of the body, and exploratory laparotomy, localization of the tumor in one child in vivo was unsuccessful. In the other boy, computed tomography revealed a large tumor in the left adrenal gland. Following the removal of the tumor, diarrhea ceased, and 10 days after surgery, the plasma level of VIP was 5 pmol/L. Histologically, the tumors in the two boys were found to be ganglioneuromas. The diagnosis of VIPoma is simple but localization can be very difficult. Surgical removal of VIPoma is often rewarding.
Alkaline Phosphatase Activity in Fresh Intestinal Mucosa and Cultured Mucosal Explants
Authors: Ashkenazi A. , Idar D. , Maimon M. , Hegesh E. , Frank E. , Hahn T. , Wolman Y. , Levin S.
Published: February 2024

Alkaline phosphatase (AP) activity is an accepted marker of epithelial cell differentiation and integrity in intestinal mucosal explant systems. In experiments involving AP it is usually expressed as activity per unit protein in tissue culture. It has been previously demonstrated that during organ culture a considerable amount of protein and nucleic acid (NA) may leave the cell and enter the surrounding medium. It may therefore not be appropriate to measure enzyme synthesis in relation to total tissue protein. In this study we attempted to gather additional information on enzyme dynamics and tissue integrity during organ culture of intestinal mucosal ex‐plants from children with celiac disease (CD) on a normal diet (ND) (n = 21), children with CD on a gluten‐free diet (GFD) (n = 12), and patients with gastrointestinal disorders other than CD (controls) (n = 17). We confirmed the leakage of protein, NA, and AP from the tissue explant into the medium, and normalized the AP data by expressing AP as total AP in tissue plus medium per total NA in tissue plus medium. In patients with CD on a ND, the AP level at time 0 was 9.58 ( ± 12.2) mIU/μg NA and after 24 h culture rose to 21.9 ( ± 15.7) mIU/μg NA. In patients with CD on a GFD the baseline AP level was 24.9 ( ± 34.8) mIU/μg NA, and this value rose after culture to 28.6 ( ± 17.9) mIU/μg NA. In the controls the initial AP activity was 17.2 ( ± 15.7) mIU/μg NA, and the increase was to 38 ( ± 27.6) mIU/μg NA. When we related tissue AP levels alone to tissue NA levels, the activity after 24 h incubation was lower than in the preincubation sample. Our study indicates that AP activity in organ culture should be expressed as total AP per total NA.
Supplementation of Milk with Iron Bound to Lactoferrin Using Weanling Mice. II
Authors: Keen Carl L. , Fransson Gun‐Britt , Lönnerdal Bo
Published: February 2024

Iron supplementation is recommended for formula‐fed infants, and it is currently suggested that iron be supplemented in formulas at a minimum of 6 mg/L. A negative side effect of iron supplementation, however, may be a reduction in the absorption of elements with similar physicochemical properties. We investigated this possibility by evaluating the impact of iron supplementation at 6 mg/L on tissue concentrations of zinc, copper, and manganese. Weanling mice fed a supplemented diet for 4 weeks had markedly lower tissue manganese concentrations than mice fed a nonsupplemented diet. Tissue zinc and copper levels were only marginally affected. The potential negative effect of iron supplementation on manganese status in the human infant should be evaluated.
Induction of Enterokinase in the Rat Small Intestine Following Hypersecretion of Trypsinogen by Chronic Trypsin Inhibitor Feeding
Authors: Kai H. , Tajiri H. , Lee P. C. , Lebenthal E.
Published: February 2024

The interrelationship between trypsin/trypsinogen and enterokinase (EK) was studied in rats following induction of trypsinogen hypersecretion by various agents. Both soybean trypsin inhibitor and para‐aminobenzamidine increased intraluminal tryptic activities to a level about twice that found in the control rats. This resulted in an increase in the mucosal and the intraluminal contents of EK in the rat small intestine. On the other hand, in cholecystokinin‐treated rats, although there was an increase of intraluminal trypsin, the increase was about 80% less than in the inhibitor‐fed rats. Under this condition, there was no effect on the mucosal or the intraluminal EK. These results suggested that substantial increase in intraluminal trypsin/trypsinogen levels (two‐fold over control) will increase the mucosal and the intraluminal concentrations of EK in the rat small intestine. Our observation extends previous reports that a decreased level of trypsin/trypsinogen, such as in pancreatic insufficiency, leads to a decrease in mucosal EK. These observations, when taken together, strongly support the modulating role of intraluminal trypsin/trypsinogen levels in controlling the EK concentrations in the small intestine.
Effects of Zinc and Copper Content of Formulas on Growth and on the Concentration of Zinc and Copper in Serum and Hair
Authors: Matsuda Ichiro , Higashi Akimasa , Ikeda Tetsuo , Uehara Itsuko , Kuroki Yumiko
Published: February 2024

We studied the effect of dietary zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) on the levels of these elements in serum (at 1, 3, and 5 months of age) and in hair (at 5 months of age) of breast‐ and formula‐fed infants. Three different formulas were used: (a) Commercially available standard infant formula containing 1.0 mg/L of Zn and 30 μg/L of Cu; (b) Zn supplemented formula, containing 3.2 mg/L of Zn and 30 μg/L of Cu; and (c) Zn‐ and Cu‐supplemented formula, containing 3.2 mg/L of Zn and 400 μg/L of Cu. The median Zn content of breast milk was 4.8 mg/L at 1 week, 2.9 mg/L at 1 month, 1.1 mg/L at 3 months and 1.1 mg/L at 5 months. Breast milk Cu content was 510 μg/L at 1 week, 440 μg/L at 1 month, 270 μg/L at 3 months, and 200 μg/L at 5 months after delivery. All infants were healthy and full term, and weight and length velocities were similar in each of the four groups studied. Serum Zn levels were significantly higher both in the infants fed the Zn‐supplemented formula and those fed the Zn‐and‐Cu‐supplemented formula compared with the other two groups of infants at 3 and 5 months of age. Zn levels in hair were significantly elevated (invariably greater than 80 μg/g) only in infants fed Zn‐supplemented formula. Serum and hair Cu concentrations were similar in the four groups at each test time, except the 5 months' serum samples, in which Cu concentrations in infants fed Zn‐supplemented formula and Zn‐ and Cu‐supplemented formula were significantly lower than those of breast‐fed infants. These levels, however, were all within the normal range (±2 SD) of young adults. These observations support the recommended Zn and Cu concentrations in infant formulas by FAO/WHO, AAP, and ESPGN.
Colonic Water and Electrolyte Transport in Young and Adult Rats
Authors: Marin L. , Aperia A.
Published: February 2024

The development of colonic water and electrolyte transport was studied in rats. The colon of 20‐day‐old (young) and 40‐day‐old (adult) rats was perfused with either a hypotonic (200 mosmol/L) or a hypertonic (450 mosmol/L) solution. The solutions had identical electrolyte contents. Polyethylene glycol was used as a marker of water absorption. Na, K‐Adenosine triphosphatase (Na, K‐ATPase) activity was determined in nonperfused colonic segments in 10− to 40‐day‐old rats. Water absorption was always higher in young rats than in adult rats. In the young rats but not in the adult rats increased osmotic pressure of the luminal fluid resulted in a significant decrease in water absorption. The secretion of K was observed only in adult rats. Na, K‐ATPase activity increased significantly from 10 to 20 and from 20 to 40 days of age. The results imply that the immature colon has higher water conductivity and low active electrolyte transport.
Ultrastructural Study of Alterations in the Small Intestinal Epithelium of Children with Acute Diarrhea
Authors: Fagundes‐Neto Ulysses , da Silva Patrício Francy Reis , Wehba Jamal , Pacheco Irineu Pontes
Published: February 2024

We studied the ultrastructure of the jejunal epithelium of six children suffering from acute episodes of gastroenteritis. Ultrastructural alterations of the jejunal mucosa occurred in practically all of the fragments analyzed, although the intensity of the abnormalities observed varied considerably. In most of the patients the alterations were confined to the microvilli, which appeared shortened and tufted in comparison with controls. These Ultrastructural alterations are nonspecific and may represent a general response of the intestinal mucosa against different noxious agents. Severe alteration of the epithelial cells was observed in only one patient. In this case the cytoplasm contained multiple vacuoles that may correspond to dilated endoplasmic reticulum. It is hypothesized that the small intestinal lesions observed in these patients may allow penetration of food antigens, resulting in the appearance of food intolerance frequently described in children suffering from acute diarrhea.
Gastrointestinal Transit Time and Anorectal Manometry in Children with Fecal Soiling
Authors: Cucchiara S. , Coremans G. , Staiano A. , Corazziari E. , Romaniello G. , Di Lorenzo C. , Auricchio S. , Tamburrini O.
Published: February 2024

Fifty‐three children with chronic idiopathic constipation, 32 with fecal soiling and 21 without soiling,: were investigated by total gastrointestinal transit time (TGITT) and anorectal manometry (ARM). TGITT and ARM were also performed, respectively, in 46 and 32 healthy subjects. Twenty‐two of the 32 children with soiling were successfully managed by medical treatment and toilet training. TGITT was significantly longer in all constipated children than in normal children. Furthermore, some parameters of anorectal motility (threshold volume, amplitude of threshold inhibitory anal reflex) of the patients differed markedly from those measured in controls. Rectal compliance was significantly higher in children with fecal soiling than in children with constipation without soiling and healthy controls. In the successfully treated children, soiling disappeared, TGITT normalized, and anorectal variables changed, significantly. It is concluded that TGITT is useful in assessing the degree of constipation. Electromanometry of the anorectum is of great help in the diagnosis of functional constipation by excluding aganglionosis; furthermore, it provides additional information allowing better understanding of the mechanisms involved in functional constipation in children.
Clinical Manifestations of Congenital Syphilitic Hepatitis
Authors: Long Walker A. , Ulshen Martin H. , Lawson Edward E.
Published: February 2024

To study the clinical course and biochemical features of congenital syphilitic hepatitis, the records of all 22 pediatric patients admitted to North Carolina Memorial Hospital between 1969 and 1979 with a positive maternal, cord blood, or serum VDRL were reviewed. Of the seven infants identified with symptomatic congenital syphilis, five had clinical and biochemical evidence of liver dysfunction. All five were jaundiced (peak bilirubin ranged from 8.4 to 29.8 mg/dl, in each case >40% conjugated). Peak transaminase elevation ranged from seven to 150 times normal. Serum glutamic‐oxaloacetic transaminase exceeded serum glutamic‐pyruvic transaminase in each infant, the difference ranging to 7,400 U. The onset of illness did not occur until after treatment had been initiated in two of these five cases. Liver dysfunction increased with treatment in all four infants with serial enzyme determinations. Liver dysfunction also persisted for more than 6 weeks after adequate treatment in two cases. Liver biopsy 5 weeks after treatment in another infant showed giant cell hepatitis. These observations suggest that treatment can potentiate liver dysfunction in congenital syphilis and that viable treponemes are not necessarily essential in the pathogenesis of the hepatitis.
Comparison of Calcium‐ and Phosphorus‐Supplemented Soy Isolate Formula with Whey‐Predominant Premature Formula in Very Low Birth Weight Infants
Authors: Hall Robert T. , Callenbach John C. , Sheehan Michael B. , Hall Fred K. , Thibeault Donald W. , Kurth C. Gay , Bowen Sandra K.
Published: February 2024

In a random, controlled study of very low birth weight (VLBW) infants from 3 to 8 weeks of age, 17 infants were fed soy isolate formula supplemented with calcium (92 mg/kg/day), phosphorus (44 mg/kg/day), and vitamin D (500 IU/kg/day), and 15 were fed a new whey‐predominant, low osmolality formula designed for small preterm infants. Mean birth weight (1,206 g, SD 178) and gestational age (30 weeks, SD 1.9) of the soy‐fed group were not significantly different from the whey formula group (1,143 g, SD 158, and 30 weeks, SD 1.8, respectively). Caloric and protein intakes were not different between the formula groups throughout the study period. However, mean weight gain in g/kg/day was significantly greater for the whey formula group: 15.3 g, SD 2.5, vs. 11.3 g, SD 2.3, p < 0.0001. Serum protein and albumin were higher in the whey formula‐fed group during the latter 2 weeks of the study (p < 0.05). The incidence of vomiting, gastric residual, abdominal distension, diarrhea, and constipation was low and not different between the two groups. No infant developed necrotizing entero‐colitis. Serum calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, 25‐hydroxy vitamin D and parathyroid hormone were similar in both groups, and no infant developed radiographic evidence of rickets. Although soy isolate formula supplemented with calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D was not associated with rickets, no fewer complications were observed with this lactose‐free, low solute formula. Greater weight gain, serum protein and albumin concentrations, and caloric efficiency in the whey formula group indicate that this is a preferred formula for feeding VLBW infants. Soy formula, even when supplemented, should be used only when specific indications exist.
Primary Intestinal Enteropeptidase Deficiency
Authors: Green Jonathan R. , Bender Steffen W. , Posselt Hans‐Georg , Lentze Michael J.
Published: February 2024

A rare case of primary enteropeptidase deficiency is reported. Details are given of the initial clinical presentation, treatment, and response of the patient from birth to the age of 18 months. Biochemical analysis of a small intestinal biopsy and duodenal juice samples confirmed the total absence of enteropeptidase activity. Proteolytic activity was very low in native duodenal juice, but normal levels could be induced by activation in vitro with a small amount of porcine enteropeptidase.
Extended Intestinal Aganglionosis in Siblings
Authors: Descos B. , Lachaux A. , Louis D. , Chopard P. , Chayvialle J. A. , Hermier M.
Published: February 2024

In this paper we report two cases of extended intestinal aganglionosis in siblings, a condition that could be considered a severe variety of Hirschsprung's disease.
Timing of the Gut Closure
Authors: Vukavić Tamara
Published: February 2024

This study was designed to establish whether the starting time of breast‐feeding (BF) may have affected gut closure for macromolecules during the earliest postnatal period. An increase of serum IgA concentrations was taken as the index of gut permeability to macromolecules. In 14 neonates, BF started 1–6 h after birth and continued every 3 h during the next 38–48 h; in 19 neonates, it started 12–15 h after birth, continuing in the following 34–46 h; and in 20 neonates, BF started at the age of 24–29 h and continued during the next 18–36 h. Serum IgA concentrations were measured before and after the period of BF using the method of single radial immunodiffusion on commercial plates. In neonates in which BF started earlier, serum IgA concentrations fell significantly (p<0.001) until the 3rd day of life. This suggested an early gut closure, caused either by some colostral factor(s) or, perhaps, by some other mechanism which prevented further macromolecular absorption. In 11 of 20 neonates in which BF started after 24 h of life, even though in this group of babies, it was of the shortest duration, serum IgA concentrations increased significantly (p<0.001), suggesting that if BF is postponed, a spontaneous gut closure may not take place within the first 30 h of life.