bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PSEUDOHYPOALDOSTERONISM Clinical, Biochemical and Morphological Studies in a Long‐term Follow‐up
Authors: PETERSEN STEN , GIESE JØRN , KAPPELGAARD ANNE M. , LUND HANS T. , LUND JENS O. , NIELSEN META DAMKJÆR , THOMSEN ÅGE CHR.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. A boy with pseudohypoaldosteronism was followed from birth to the age of 7 years. Failure to thrive, vomiting, dehydration, hyponatraemia and urinary sodium loss were prominent findings. Urinary excretion of corticosteroid metabolites was normal. Before treatment, excessively high plasma renin concentration was found, associated with a marked activation of aldosterone secretion. A renal biopsy showed pronounced hypertrophy of the juxtaglomerular apparatus. Persisting metabolic acidosis and an insufficient urinary acidifying capacity suggested the presence of distal renal tubular acidosis. Treatment with sodium bicarbonate and sodium chloride from 19 to 31 months of age resulted in normal growth and normal physical and mental development. The plasma electrolytes were normalized but a pronounced activation of the renin–aldosterone system persisted after therapy, and on sodium restriction this system responded with a considerable further activation.
EFFECT OF INTRAVENOUS L‐ALANINE ADMINISTRATION ON PLASMA GLUCOSE, INSULIN AND GLUCAGON, BLOOD PYRUVATE, LACTATE AND BETA‐HYDROXYBUTYRATE CONCENTRATIONS IN NEWBORN INFANTS Study in Term and Preterm Newborn Infants
Authors: SANN L. , RUITTON A. , MATHIEU M. , BOURGEOIS J. , GENOUD J.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. Ten term and eleven preterm newborn infants with appropriate weights for their gestational age were infused for one minute with L‐alanine (150 mg/kg) at the age of 29 to 76 hours (mean 48 hours) and circulating levels of glucose, lactate, pyruvate, d‐betahydroxybutyrate (d‐BOHB), insulin and glucagon were monitored. Plasma glucose concentrations increased from 2.7±0.16 (mean±S.E.M.) to 3.7±0.2 mmol/1 after 50 min (p±0.01) in term infants. In preterm infants, after an initial decrease of the glucose level from 3.1±0.16 to 2.6±0.16 mmol/1 (p±0.05), it returned to the baseline level at 50 min: 3.0±0.2 mmol/1. The blood concentration of d‐BOHB decreased in term infants from 192±37 to 112±6 μM/1 (p±0.01) after 40 min. In preterms, its decrease was not significant (p±0.05). Plasma glucagon levels rose from 53±5 to 70±8 pmol/1 after ten minutes (p±0.01) in term infants and from 61±6 to 75±9 after 20 min (p±0.01) in preterm infants. There were no significant changes in plasma insulin concentrations in either group. Forty minutes after l‐alanine infusion, I/G ratios were lower in preterm infants (1.26±0.14) than in term infants (1.71±0.25) (p±0.01). There was no relationship between the glycemic responses to l‐alanine and the basal levels of d‐BOHB.

The data suggest that the glycemic effect of l‐alanine infusion and circulating glucagon depends upon a specific stage in maturation. The antiketogenic effect of l‐alanine infusion is observed in term infants as in adults.
COPPER DEFICIENCY AND HYPOCALCEMIC RICKETS IN A SMALL‐FOR‐DATE INFANT
Authors: SANN L. , DAVID L. , GALY G. , ROMAND‐MONIER M.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. A case of copper deficiency associated with hypocalcemia, radiological features of rickets and hyperparathyroidism is described in a small‐for‐date infant (gestational age 39 weeks, B.W. 1240 g). Neonatal serum copper (Cu) levels were found between 223 and 138 μmol/l. She was given daily 2 400 U of vitamin D2 and a load dose of 80 000 IU at the age of 55 days. At the age of 79 days, X‐rays of the legs and wrist showed spread, cupped and frayed metaphyses. Serum Ca was 1.35 mmol/1, P=0.99 mmol/1 with high alkaline phosphatases (A.P.) 590 II/ml. But plasma level of 25 hydroxycholecalciferol (25‐OH‐CC) was normal = 10.8 ng/ml. Serum Cu was low=3.14 μmol/l and serum immunoreactive parathormone (iPTH) level was elevated: 520 μlEq/ml (N±100). Administration of vitamin D2 (15 mg) induced an immediate normalization of serum Ca, normal serum iPTH (68 μlEq/ml) in one month, normal X‐rays in two months and normal A.P. in four months. Serum Cu and ceruloplasmin levels increased slowly without any supplementation to subnormal levels at the age of eight months (14.9 and 1.65 μmol/1. Serum Cu concentrations were found to be normal (16.0–33.7 μmol/1) in five children with hypocalcemic rickets. These results suggest a role of Cu deficiency in the occurrence of this transient vitamin D‐resistant rickets.
CONGENITAL AND ACQUIRED CYTOMEGALOVIRUS INFECTIONS Virological and Clinical Studies on a Swedish Infant Population
Authors: AHLFORS K. , IVARSSON S.‐A. , JOHNSSON T. , SVENSSON I.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. The study included two clinical materials. First, the frequency of cytomegalovirus and its clinical significance were studied among 661 Swedish children under one year of age admitted to a paediatric hospital. Before the age of one week 4/326 (1%) children excreted virus. At one month the frequency had risen to 6/52 (12%) and after this age the frequency was constant around 20–25%. Sixty per cent of infants born to immigrants were infected after one month of age. One of the four congenitally infected children had symptoms at birth followed by neurological sequelae. The majority of the infections acquired at birth or in early infancy seemed to be subclinical and without sequelae. Second, a retrospective investigation of 18695 children born during a six‐year period was performed. Two cases of virologically confirmed congenital cytomegalic inclusion disease were found. Regarding seven microcephalic patients in the retrospective study congenital CMV‐infection could be excluded in four cases. In the remaining three cases the data did not permit any conclusions regarding the etiology.
SPLENOGONADAL FUSION
Authors: HALVORSEN JAN F. , STRAY OLAV
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. A case of splenogonadal fusion of the continuous type occurring in a 14‐month‐old boy with limb deformities is reported and the literature briefly reviewed. The ectopic splenic tissue was extirpated, and follow‐up 1 year later showed normal position and development of the left testicle.
CLINICAL, HORMONAL AND ULTRASTRUCTURE STUDIES OF A VIRILIZING HEPATOBLASTOMA
Authors: KUMAR E. VIJAY , KUMAR LATA , PATHAK IQBAL C. , DASH RADHARAMAN J. , JOSHI VIJAY V.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. Virilizing hepatoblastoma was found to be the cause of precocious puberty in a 3¼‐year‐old boy. Both human chorionic gonadotropins and alphafetoprotein in increased amounts were detected in serum and tumor tissue. These substances disappeared from the blood after removal of the tumor. Ultrastructure studies revealed the presence of dense, membrane bound, secretory granules responsible for the hormone production.
HAEMATOPOIETIC STEM CELLS (CFUc) IN HUMAN CORD BLOOD
Authors: PRINDULL G. , PRINDULL B. , MEULEN N. v. d.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. Colony forming units (CFUc) giving rise to myelocytic colonies in methylcellulose cultures were found among non‐adherent mononuclear cells of human cord blood with a frequency of one in 1678. The number decreased markedly during the first 8 to 10 days of life. They were rarely detected in adult blood by this technique.
HYPERGAMMAGLOBULINEMIC PURPURA IN CYSTIC FIBROSIS
Authors: NIELSEN HANS ERIK , LUNDH SØREN , JACOBSEN SØREN VIDAR , HØIBY NIELS
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT.Four patients are presented aged 14 to 20 years with cystic fibrosis and recurrent purpura of the legs. They have polyclonal increase of Ig but no intermediate complexes demonstrable by ultracentrifugation. The 4 patients differ from other patients with cystic fibrosis by a rapid deterioration of the clinical condition after the establishment of permanent pulmonary infection, and also by their proneness to Haemophilus influenzae infections. The clinical and laboratory findings are compatible with the diagnosis of Waldenström's hypergammaglobulinemic purpura. The heterogeneity of this syndrome is discussed.
VITAMIN E REQUIREMENTS OF PRETERM INFANTS
Authors: JANSSON L. , HOLMBERG L. , NILSSON B. , JOHANSSON B.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. Differences between feeding practices in earlier investigations prompted the present study of iron and vitamin E supplementation in breast milk fed preterm infants. A new and highly sensitive technique for quantitation of alpha‐tocopherol in serum was used. Studies on 34 infants with a birth weight below 2000 g or gestational age ≤35 weeks showed that supplementation with 16.5 mg tocopheryl acetate/day from 10 days of age resulted in a significantly higher haemoglobin concentration and lower reticulocyte count at 8–10 weeks than supplementation with 1.5 mg/day (p<0.05). Studies on 23 infants with a birth weight of 2000–2499 g revealed subnormal alpha‐tocopherol levels in 2 of the infants given 1.5 mg tocopheryl acetate/day but there was no effect on the haemoglobin concentration at 8–10 weeks. There were no untoward effects of an early iron supplementation with 2–3 mg Fe++ (as ferrous succinate)/kg/day. It is concluded that extra supplementation with vitamin E is advisable also in breast milk fed preterm infants. A low dosage iron supplementation from 3 weeks of age is safe.
DOES OVERNUTRITION OR OBESITY DURING THE FIRST YEAR AFFECT WEIGHT AT AGE FOUR?
Authors: SVEGER T.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. 226 of 243 infants who took part in a prospective study of nutrition and weight during the first year of life were reviewed at age 4 years. 23 of 243 infants (9%) were obese on one or more controls the first year, and 4 of 226 (2%) at age 4 years. Only 3 of 23 infants remained obese. The weight and length of the children obsese at 0–1 year of age were significantly increased at age 4 years. Overnutrition occurred during the first year in 26 infants and the number of obese infants in this group was significantly increased at age 7–12 months and of overweight children during the first two years of life. At age 4, however, none of them were either obese or overweight.
GONADAL DYSFUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH ATAXIA TELANGIECTASIA
Authors: ZADIK Z. , LEVIN S. , PRAGER‐LEWIN R. , LARON Z.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. Two males and three females with ataxia telangiectasia aged from 4 6/12; to 23 years were subjected to an i.v. LH‐RH test. All were found to have elevated basal levels of FSH and three had elevated basal levels of LH. In all the response of FSH to LH‐RH was supranormal. In the pubertal and adult females the basal levels of estradiol were low. The laboratory and clinical findings in these patients as well as data reported by others indicate that the primary gonadal failure is an integral part of AT.
TRANSIENT ERYTHROBLASTOPENIA IN CHILDHOOD A Study of 15 Cases
Authors: WEGELIUS RUTH , WEBER THEODOR H.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. A survey is presented of 15 patients from the Aurora Hospital and 35 patients reported in the literature with transient erythroblastopenia of childhood (TEC). The children were hospitalized because of pallor and tiredness, some of them having signs of mild infection. They displayed normochromic anaemia, reticulocytopenia and erythroblastopenia during the severe stage of the disease. In addition, they had moderately high values for serum iron and iron‐binding saturation. No other haematological, chemical or cytogenetic abnormalities could be demonstrated. 80% of the children were between 6 and 48 months old and the sexes were equally affected. In the 15 patients from the Aurora Hospital a barely significant (p=0.02‐0.05) association with blood group A was recorded. Remission, indicated by a rise in the reticulocyte count, begins within a week after the diagnosis is made, even without treatment. The aetiology of the disease is unknown. Analysis of the red blood cell population at the time of diagnosis indicates that damage to the red cell precursors has occurred 2–3 months before the child is brought for examination.
FATAL BCG INFECTION IN AN IMMUNOCOMPETENT GIRL
Authors: PEDERSEN F. KARUP , ENGBÆK H. C. , HERTZ H. , VERGMANN B.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. A 6‐year‐old girl developed progressive symptoms of increased intracranial pressure starting 5 months after BCG vaccination. Thirteen months later craniotomy revealed an epithelioid cell granuloma of the arachnoid occluding the foramen of Magendie. No tubercle bacilli were found on histological examination. Insertion of a Pudenz shunt relieved the symptoms. Six months later generalized BCG infection developed, and in spite of treatment with ethambutol, rifampicin and isoniazid for 10 weeks, death occurred during an episode of increased intracranial pressure. Mycobacterium BCG could be cultured from several organs. The patient showed no obvious evidence of immunodeficiency as judged on the basis of previous disease history, particle concentration of granulocytes, B and T lymphocytes in peripheral blood, concentration of immunoglobulins in serum, response of lymphocytes to transformation with mitogens and antigens, and histological findings in the thymus and BCG granulomas.
INCREASED INTRACRANIAL PRESSURE IN CYSTIC FIBROSIS
Authors: KATZNELSON DANIEL
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. Three cystic fibrosis infants with severe respiratory distress had increased intracranial pressure (with bulging fontanels) which cleared parri passu with improvement in the chest condition. It is proposed that the intracranial hypertension is a result of raised venous pressure, itself secondary to the intrathoracic obstruction to venous return, consequent on the bronchial obstructive disease.
RELIABLE DIAGNOSIS OF THE MAJOR TYPE OF CYSTIC FIBROSIS WITH FIBROBLAST CULTURES A Double Blind Study
Authors: HÖSLI P. , KOLLBERG H. , VOGT E.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. A double blind study has been carried out to demonstrate that the most common type of cystic fibrosis (CF) can be reliably diagnosed with skin‐derived fibroblast cultures. Alkaline phosphatase (AIP) activity has been measured in 6 normal controls, 12 CF‐heterozygotes and 6 CF‐homozygotes before and after stimulation with Tamm‐Horsfall‐glycoprotein (THP), isoproterenol and theophylline (“THP‐induction test”). The mean AIP‐activities after THP‐induction were 8.8, 12.7 and 34.6 for the three different genotypes respectively. There was no overlap between the values of CF‐homozygotes on the one hand, and the values of CF‐heterozygotes and normal controls on the other hand. All 24 specimens were correctly diagnosed in the present double blind study, indicating the very high degree of reliability of the THP‐induction test in the detection of the predominant type of cystic fibrosis with fibroblast cultures. Normal controls and CF‐heterozygotes could not be discriminated on an individual basis, but as a group the CF‐heterozygotes displayed higher AIP‐values.
RELATIONSHIP OF MATERNAL SMOKING TO MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY OF THE CHILD UP TO THE AGE OF FIVE
Authors: RANTAKALLIO P.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. The effect of maternal smoking during pregnancy on the morbidity and mortality of the child up to the age of five was studied in 12068 births. The children of the smokers were compared with those of controls of similar age, parity, marital status and place of residence. Perinatal mortality was no higher among the smokers, but postneonatal mortality from 28 days to 5 years was almost significantly (p<0.05) higher. The children of the smokers were highly significantly (p<0.001) more often hospitalized in pediatric departments, the difference being clearest below the age of one. The average duration of hospital admissions was longer among the children of the smokers, and similarly the numbers of visits to the doctor and hospital admissions to any hospital under the age of one were more frequent among the children of the smokers. Respiratory diseases caused highly significantly more hospitalizations among these children.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HAEMOGLOBIN AND SERUM TESTOSTERONE IN NORMAL CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS AND IN BOYS WITH DELAYED PUBERTY
Authors: KRABBE S. , CHRISTENSEN T. , WORM J. , CHRISTIANSEN C. , TRANSBØL I.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. The concentrations of haemoglobin and of serum testosterone were measured in 215 normal children and adolescents aged 7–20 years, and in 8 boys with constitutional delayed puberty. From the age of 14 years onward haemoglobin and testosterone rose in normal boys and differed significantly from the stable levels observed in prepubertal children and pubertal girls. In the entire series of normal boys (n= 118, age 7–20 years) concentrations of haemoglobin and testosterone were found to be closely correlated (r=0.73, p<0.001). These results provide further evidence for a major role of testosterone in the control of erythropoiesis. Therefore, this correlation suggests the use of serum testosterone determination for the proper selection of haemoglobin reference ranges in boys. The respective reference ranges of haemoglobin corresponding to testosterone levels at 0 and 30 nmol/1 were 120.5–148.5 and 143.5–171.5 g/1 (95% confidence limits). Boys with delayed puberty were found to have significantly reduced median values of haemoglobin and testosterone for their chronological age, and 6 of the 8 boys investigated were truly anaemic on this background. Nevertheless, their haemoglobin concentration did appear appropriate as judged from their testosterone levels. This observation supports the idea that the selection of the relevant reference range for haemoglobin in boys should depend on the state of physical development as expressed by serum testosterone.
TRANSIENT INTESTINAL LYMPHANGIECTASIA
Authors: ØRBECK HARALD , LARSEN TOVE EEG , HOVIG TORSTEIN
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. Intestinal lymphangiectasia may be more protean in clinical manifestations and less rare than earlier suspected. A recent report points out that there are two types of the disorder, one congenital and the other acquired and transitory. A case is reported which fulfills the current clinical, laboratory, radiological and histological criteria for the diagnosis of the disease, and represents the first report in Scandinavia of transient intestinal lymphangiectasia with rapid and complete recovery within a few months after initiation of MCT diet.
CHILD ABUSE: A LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: LAGERBERG D.
Published: January 2008

ABSTRACT. The following is a summary of a recently published review of Swedish and international literature concerning children exposed to abuse and neglect or manifesting failure to thrive. The review is the first report appearing from the so‐called PRU group in Uppsala–Psycho‐social Risk Children in Uppsala. The group is a multidisciplinary team engaged in a research project about Uppsala children exposed to mental, social and physical risks in their homes. The project is financed by the Save the Children Fund, which has also contributed to the printing costs of the book. Various professions are represented in the research team, namely social work, family therapy, child psychiatry, child psychology, paediatrics, and sociology. The complete review was published in the autumn of 1977 under the following title: Dagmar Lagerberg/PRU‐gruppen: Föräldravåld mot barn. En litteraturstudie (PRU group: Child abuse by parents. A literature review). A second main report, presenting the aims, material, methods, and results of the project, is planned for publication in 1979.
THE CONCENTRATIONS OF COPPER AND ZINC IN HUMAN MILK A Longitudinal Study
Authors: VUORI ERKKI , KUITUNEN PEKKA
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Vuori, E. and Kuitunen, P. (Department of Public Health Science and Children's Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland). The concentrations of copper and zinc in human milk—a longitudinal study. Acta Pædiatr Scand, 68: 33, 1979.—Twenty‐seven healthy Finnish mothers were followed during the course of their entire lactation period. A total of 229 individual milk samples, collected in the beginning and at the end of each feed during a 24‐h period, were obtained from the 2nd week to the 9th month of lactation. The copper and zinc concentrations were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The concentrations of the trace‐elements investigated were dependent on the stage of lactation. The median copper and zinc concentrations decreased during the course of lactation from about 0.60 mgyl and 4.0 mg/l to 0.25 mg/l and 0.5 mg/l, respectively. The importance of considering the stage of lactation in the evaluation of the trace‐element nutrition value of breast milk should be emphasized. The calculated means of the concentrations of these trace‐elements in mature human milk presented in the literature seem to overestimate the actual levels in prolonged lactation.
SERUM CONCENTRATIONS OF THYROXINE‐BINDING GLOBULIN, PREALBUMIN AND ALBUMIN IN HEALTHY FULLTERM, SMALL‐FOR‐GESTATIONAL AGE AND PRETERM NEWBORN INFANTS
Authors: JACOBSEN B. BROCK , PEITERSEN B. , ANDERSEN H. J. , HUMMER L.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Jacobsen, B. B., Peitersen, B., Andersen, H. J. and Hummer, L. (The University Clinic of Paediatrics, Children's Hospital Fuglebakken and the Departments of Nuclear Medicine, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark). Serum concentrations of thyroxine‐binding globulin, prealbumin and albumin in healthy fullterm, small‐for‐gestational age and preterm newborn infants. Acta Paediatr Scand, 68: 49, 1979.—Simultaneous serum concentrations of thyroxine‐binding globulin (TBG), prealbumin (TBPA) and albumin (Alb) were measured in 130 fullterm, 32 small‐for‐gestational age and 25 preterm infants during their first six days of life. In all infants serum concentrations of TBG were higher and serum TBPA and Alb were lower than in male adults. Even higher serum TBG levels wer found in the mothers. There was no correlation between serum concentrations in paired maternal and cord sera. In infants with birth weights appropriate for gestation serum TBG, TBPA, and Alb concentrations increased progressively with gestational age. In small‐for‐gestational age infants born at term serum concentrations of TBG and Alb were lower than those in full‐term, but higher than those in premature newborns. Serum TBPA in small‐for‐gestational age babies was evne lower than seen in prematures. A positive correlation was found between thyroid hormones and TBG concentrations, not between serum TBPA and thyroid hormones. The ratios between serum concentration of thyroid hormones and proteins might indicate that more thyroid hormonebinding sites are occupied in fullterm than in low birth‐weight newborns. However, the main reason for the different serum levels of thyroid hormones in fullterm, small‐for‐gestational age and preterm babies is probably the various serum TBG concentrations demonstrated in these infants.
REDUCED SERUM 1,25‐(OH)2 VITAMIN D3 LEVELS IN PREDNISONE‐TREATED ADOLESCENTS WITH SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS
Authors: O'REGAN SEAN , CHESNEY R. W. , HAMSTRA A. , EISMAN J. A. , O'GORMAN A. M. , DELUCA H. F.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. The serum levels of 1,25‐(OH)2 vitamin D3 were assayed in samples from 12 adolescent patients with SLE. Subnormal levels were observed in 7 of these 12 patients. Low levels of the metabolically active polar metabolite of vitamin D3 may contribute to the development of osteopenia observed in this disease. The cumulative effects of the osteoporotic and anti vitamin D effects of long term steroid therapy in children with SLE may require the cautious administration of supplemental vitamin D.
A VARIANT OF THE KLIPPEL–TRENAUNAY–WEBER SYNDROME WITH TEMPORAL LOBE ASTROCYTOMA
Authors: HOWITZ P. , HOWITZ J. , GJERRIS F.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. An 8‐year‐old boy with a variant of the Klippel‐Trenaunay‐Weber syndrome (KTW syndrome) is described. The hemangiomatous tissue located to the right half of his trunk and extremities was hypotrophic. On the same side, on his face and gingivae the tissue appeared hypertrophic and dental abnormalities were present. Moreover, the patient suffered from psychomotor epilepsy caused by a right‐sided temporal astrocytoma. The connection between the KTW syndrome and the neurocutaneous syndromes is discussed.
INTERACTIONS OF NUTRITION, INFECTION AND IMMUNE RESPONSE Immunocompetence in Nutritional Deficiency, Methodological Considerations and Intervention Strategies
Authors: CHANDRA R. K.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Clinical and epidemiologic data point to a causal interrelationship between nutritional deficiency and infectious illness. Both are major contributors to childhood morbidity and mortality, particularly in underprivileged population groups. Energy‐protein undernutrition and deficiencies of iron, folates and pyridoxine, depress a variety of immunity functions. Delayed hypersensitivity and number of T lymphocytes are consistently reduced. In small‐for‐gestation low birth weight infants, cell‐mediated immunity may remain depressed for several years. B lymphocytes, immunoglobulin levels and antibody responses are generally normal, but secretory IgA‐antibody is reduced. Serum complement components are low and there is evidence of in vivo consumption of complement C 3. Neutrophil phagocytosis of bacteria and fungi is intact but the next step of intracellular killing is impaired. There are changes also in the production of lysozyme and interferon. Infection per se results in nutrient losses, either actual or by sequestration, and produces immunosuppression. The correction of postnatal nutritional deficits and/or infection is associated with reversal of immunological functions to normal. The interplay of nutrition, immunity and infection, and its biological implications are described.
LONG‐TERM PROGNOSIS OF INFANTS WITH IDIOPATHIC RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME Follow‐up Studies in Infants Surviving after the Introduction of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
Authors: KAMPER JENS , MØLLER JØRN
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Fifty‐one children surviving IRDS with CPAP alone or CPAP and IPPV were studied at the age of 2.5 to 4.0 years. One child had developed tetraplegia and mental retardation and 6 children were speech‐retarded. Correlation with perinatal events showed that this group of children had a significantly lower gestational age and birth weight, a lower Apgar score and a higher Pço2 prior to ventilatory treatment than the remainder. Re‐examination by age 4.0 to 5.0 years showed persistent handicaps in only four of the seven children.
DIETARY HABITS AND SERUM LIPIDS DURING FIRST 4 YEARS OF LIFE A Study of 95 Danish Children
Authors: ANDERSEN G. E. , LIFSCHITZ C. , FRIIS‐HANSEN B.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Early infant feeding habits, current dietary intake and serum lipids were investigated in 31 infants, age 6–10 months and 64 children, age 3–4 years. In the infants there was a correlation between serum lipid levels and the amount of saturated fat and the P/S ratio of the diet. No such correlation was found in the 3–4 year old children. Neither was there any correlation between the type and duration of early infant feeding and subsequent serum lipid levels. In both the infants and the 3–4 year old children serum cholesterol concentration correlated with the serum cholesterol concentration in each of the parents.
A SURVEY OF 164 FINNISH CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH HYPERTENSION
Authors: UHARI M. , KOSKIMIES O.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. A retrospective analysis was performed on 164 children and adolescents with persistent hypertension. Among the un‐selected 115 patients with hypertension seen within the last three years 47 (41%) exhibited renal disease, 37 (32%) coarctation of the aorta, 10 (9%) miscellaneous associated causes and 21 (18%) no associated cause (essential hypertension). A substantial number, 53/164, had a primary disease potentially curable by surgery, and in 37 patients the blood pressure was normalized postoperatively. The outcome depended mostly on the basic disease and the availability of chronic hemodialysis. 11/164 children have died, all because of terminal basic disease, and one with simultaneous hypertensive crisis. We thus recommend a thorough investigation in the case of a child with persistent hypertension.
INCREASE IN BILIRUBIN BINDING TO ALBUMIN WITH CORRECTION OF NEONATAL ACIDOSIS
Authors: KOZUKI KIYOSHI , OH WILLIAM , WIDNESS JOHN , CASHORE WILLIAM J.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Twenty‐six serial measurements of free bilirubin concentration and apparent association constant of bilirubin for albumin (Ka) at a bilirubin: albumin molar ratio of 0.8 were performed and compared with baseline values in 11 newborn infants with acidosis before treatment and during recovery from acidosis. When arterial pH was corrected from 7.12±0.02 (Mean±S.E.M.) to 7.34±0.02, there was a significant decrease in serum free bilirubin concentration and a significant increase in the Ka at molar ratio 0.8. The data offer in vivo evidence that correction of acidosis in the neonate results in an improvement of the apparent bilirubin binding affinity of albumin.
“STRESS” POLYCYTHAEMIA AND PERIPHERAL FACIAL PALSY COMPLICATIONS OF SEVERE HYPERTENSION
Authors: ZEIS P. M. , RAO S. , JOHN E. G. , ASCHINBERG L. C.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. An 11‐month‐old boy had an episode of generalized convulsions followed by a right peripheral facial palsy, which resolved gradually within 3 weeks. Three months later he had another similar episode of convulsions followed by a left peripheral facial palsy. On both occasions it was found that he had polycythaemia. A careful physical examination discovered that the child had severe hypertension. Extensive laboratory investigations did not reveal a cause for his hypertension. Haematologic investigations showed that the polycythaemia was due to a contracted plasma volume as a result of the hypertension. The peripheral facial palsy most probably was due to a blood clot in the facial canal, below the origin of the nerve to m. stapedius, as audiograms were normal and lacrimation preserved. Control of the hypertension resulted in resolution of the facial palsy within 4 weeks and normal haematocrit readings within 6 weeks. It should be stressed that every patient with peripheral facial palsy should be examined for hypertension.
THE PROGNOSIS OF NEAR‐DROWNED CHILDREN
Authors: KRUUS S. , BERGSTRÖM L. , SUUTARINEN T. , HYVÖNEN R.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Thirty children were treated for near‐drowning in the Children's Hospital, University of Helsinki during 1971–1976. The patients were divided into 3 groups according to the prognosis: group I included 13 children (43%) with a favourable prognosis, group II four children (13%) with a less favourable prognosis who developed severe sequelae, and group III 13 children with poor prognosis and in whom the subsequent outcome proved fatal. The surviving children underwent neurological, neurophysiological and psychological examination 6–58 months after the accident. The children in group I had slight neurological or psychological signs, some children presented a lowered intellectual functioning level. The children in group II were tetraplegic, unable to speak and had convulsions. The following factors were important in affecting prognosis: the longer the immersion time, the worse the prognosis. However, prognosis could still be favourable with an immersion‐time of 11–20 min. Prognosis was bad if the first pH value was <7.00. The arterial oxygen pressure values measured during the treatment did not correlate with the prognosis but a low rectal temperature on admission was usually associated with a bad prognosis. The degree of EEG‐disturbance had a prognostic value. However, the follow‐up recordings correlated better with the prognosis than the recordings during the first 24 hours, after which worsening of the EEG sometimes showed a progressive brain lesion.
SCREENING OF CORD BLOOD LOW‐DENSITY‐LIPOPROTEIN CHOLESTEROL IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF FAMILIAL HYPERCHOLESTEROLAEMIA: A STUDY OF 2000 INFANTS
Authors: BOULTON T. J. C. , CRAIG I. H. , HILL G.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. A prospective follow‐up study of infants selected by cord blood total cholesterol (TC) and low‐density‐lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) levels from 2000 consecutive live births was undertaken to reassess the role of cord blood screening in the diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH). Mean values for serum cholesterol were (mmol/l ± S.D.): TC, 1.83 ± 0.56; LDL‐C, 0.90 ± 0.49; HDL‐C, 0.70 ± 0.33; TG, 0.38 ± 0.16. Seventy‐three of 117 infants who had had a cord TC and/or LDL‐C >95th percentile, and 373 control group children (cord TC and/or LDL‐C >95th percentile) were followed up at age 3–12 months. Six of the 117 were hypercholesterolaemic (HC), and one child had an HC parent: positive detection rate ≥0.05%; false positive rate ≥3.7%. Four control‐group children were HC and had an HC parent; false negative rate ≥1.1%. With the possible exception of detecting FH in a child with a known affected parent, cord blood screening appears to be unreliable for the diagnosis of FH.
A FOLLOW‐UP STUDY OF INFANTS WITH ADVERSE REACTIONS TO COW'S MILK I. Serum IgE, Skin Test Reactions and RAST in Relation to Clinical Course
Authors: DANNAEUS ANDERS , JOHANSSON S. G. O.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. 47 infants with cow's milk sensitivity were followed for a period varying between 6 months to 4 years (mean 28 months). The age at onset of symptoms varied between 14 days to 20 months. The clinical course was studied in relation to reaginic allergy by use of serum IgE, skin prick test and RAST. Infants with an immediate onset of symptoms from the gastrointestinal tract and the skin after cow's milk intake were discerned as a distinct entity having a high frequency of atopy in the family, positive skin tests and positive RASTs to milk (71%). Cases with delayed reactions to cow's milk seldom had a positive RAST or skin test. Most infants of both groups showed an increasing tolerance to milk. In RAST positive infants the RAST‐titers increased significantly after onset of symptoms. After having reached a peak the titers subclined in several cases. The titers did not reflect the degree of milk sensitivity during the follow‐up period. However, infants who developed high titers seemed to develop tolerance more slowly than infants with low titers.
COW'S MILK ALLERGY, INCIDENCE AND PATHOGENETIC ROLE OF EARLY EXPOSURE TO COW'S MILK FORMULA
Authors: STINTZING G. , ZETTERSTRÖM R.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. A study was performed in infants under the age of 12 months born during 1974 and admitted to St. Göran's Children's Hospital with symptoms suggestive of cow's milk allergy (CMA). The aims of the study were to determine the role of early exposure to cow's milk formulas as a predisposing factor to CMA and to estimate the incidence of CMA in infancy. Twenty‐five infants fulfilled the criteria for CMA. Available records were reviewed and a careful history was obtained from the mothers on two occasions. The patient group was compared with a control group. Sixteen of the 25 infants were exposed to cow's milk protein during their first week in the nursery for newborns, 6 were exposed before the end of the fourth week of life, and 3 infants were apparently not exposed. All infants were breast fed 3 to 26 weeks before re‐exposure and occurrence of symptoms. Infants with CMA were given cow's milk formulas during their first 4 weeks of life significantly more often than infants in the control group (p<0.01). The incidence of CMA was approximately 1:200. The first 4 weeks after birth seem to be a particularly vulnerable period. Hence, in order to prevent CMA, infant formula should not be given—even occasionally—during this period.
EFFECT OF LONG‐TERM GH ADMINISTRATION ON PITUITARY‐THYROID FUNCTION IN IDIOPATHIC HYPOPITUITARISM
Authors: CACCIARI E. , CICOGNANI A. , PIRAZZOLI P. , BERNARDI F. , ZAPPULLA F. , SALARDI S. , MAZZANTI L. , BIASINI A. , VALENTI E.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Twenty‐four euthyroid children with idiopathic pituitary dwarfism were studied. The euthyroid state for seven of these patients was determined by negative physical examinations, normal plasma T4 assays and normal 131I uptakes. For the other children, thyroid function was evaluated with T3 and T4assays and on the basis of the TRH test. Each of the children was treated with HGH in one of three different ways. The first group (five cases) was given a HGH dose, ranging from 12.4 to 17.2 IU/m2/week. The second and third groups (nine and ten cases, respectively) were treated with 10 and 20 IU/m2/week, respectively. Treatment was carried out for periods ranging from 6 months to 6 years. After no less than 6 months of treatment, and at intervals of 6 months (or some multiple of 6 months) plasma T3 and T4 assays, as well as a TRH test were performed in each patient. In some patients one of the indices was once beyond the upper or lower limit of the normal range (none of the children presented simultaneous abnormal levels of more than one index during the controls). This value, however, returned to within normal limits at the following control. There was no correlation between T3, T4 and TSH with the duration of HGH therapy. There was no significant difference between the groups of children treated with the different HGH doses. These data seem to demonstrate that the risk of inducing an alteration in thyroid function in hypopituitary patients during HGH treatment is very slight, and that the irregularly abnormal thyroid indices observed in some of the children during one of the controls might be an expression of their metabolic status at that moment.
CHANGES IN SERUM CONCENTRATIONS OF THYROID HORMONES AND THYROID HORMONE‐BINDING PROTEINS DURING EARLY INFANCY Studies in Healthy Fullterm, Small‐for‐gestational Age and Preterm Infants Aged 7 to 240 Days
Authors: JACOBSEN B. BROCK , HUMMER L.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Serum concentrations of thyrotropin (TSH), thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine‐binding globulin (TBG), prealbumin (TBPA) and albumin (Alb) were determined in 492 blood samples from 127 fullterm (FT), 91 small‐for‐gestational age (SGA) and 88 preterm (PT) healthy infants aged 7 to 240 days. Serum T4 decreased about 20% during the first month of life. In infants aged 7–49 days, serum T4 concentrations were significantly lower in SGA than in FT infants, and even lower values were found in PT infants. Serum T3 increased 50–70% reaching maximal values by 50–79 days of life. Serum T3 levels were higher in FT than in SGA infants throughout the observation period. In PT infants serum T3 increased from low values to levels which exceeded those of SGA and FT infants by 120–240 days of life. Serum TSH level did not change with age and was 5 mU/1 in all infants. Serum TBG values were high compared to normal adult values and did not change significantly with age. Comparable serum TBG values were found in FT, SGA and PT infants. Serum TBPA increased with age. Serum TBPA increased gradually in FT infants. In SGA infants serum TBPA increased from low values to levels which by 120–240 days of life exceeded those of PT and FT infants. In PT infants a decrease in serum TBPA appeared before the rise commenced. Serum Alb increased gradually in FT, SGA and PT infants during the observation period. Serum Alb in PT infants aged 30–119 days was lower than those in FT infants with similar ages. These physiological changes in serum concentrations of thyroid hormones and hormone‐binding proteins during early infancy should be considered when interpreting thyroid function tests in infants with various maturity.
CORRELATION BETWEEN AGE AND PLASMA LEVEL/DOSAGE RATIO FOR PHENOBARBITAL IN INFANTS AND CHILDREN
Authors: ROSSI L. N. , NINO L. M. , PRINCIPI N.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. 123 plasma concentration measurements of phenobarbital were obtained from 82 children (2 months ‐ 6 1/2 years old) at steady‐state conditions. The plasma level/dosage ratio has been found to have a highly significant correlation with the age of the patient both for dosage in mg/kg and in mg/m2. The ratio increases with the increase in the age of the patient at a rate which is greater for dosages expressed on the basis of body weight. Moreover, at least for body weight related dosages, this increase is relatively high in the first year of life, becoming less marked after. Practical indications are given about the required dosage of phenobarbital in different groups of ages from 2 months up to 6 1/2 years. It is recommended however to regularly measure the plasma level of the drug in infants and children treated for long periods of time.
THE COFFIN‐SIRIS SYNDROME
Authors: SCHINZEL A.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. A 14‐month‐old female with the Coffin‐Siris syndrome is described. Typical features included underweight at birth, growth retardation, microcephaly, profound mental retardation, severe hypotonia with lax joints, feeding difficulties and frequent respiratory tract infections; sparce scalp hair, small nose, epicanthic folds, a prominent philtrum and full lips; a congenital heart defect; hypoplasia or aplasia of the distal phalanges of digits 2–5 and the corresponding nails, especially of the fifth fingers and toes, and aplasia of the middle phalanges of the little fingers and the second and fifth toes; severe delay in bone maturation. The proposita also showed hypoplasia of the lateral portions of both clavicles. Inheritance of the Coffin‐Siris syndrome is possibly autosomal recessive.
REGIONAL DEFICIENCY OF SECRETORY IgA IN A PATIENT WITH COMBINED IMMUNODEFICIENCY OF THE ADA DEFICIENT TYPE
Authors: MOORE E. C. , LAFFIN R. J. , TOMASI T. , PICKERING R. J. , RADL J. , MEUWISSEN H. J.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. The IgA system in a patient with SCID and ADA deficiency showed heterogeneity. Serum IgA and stool secretory IgA (SIgA) levels were normal, but with altered K/ and A1/A2 subclass ratios; IgA in saliva and urine was deficient. Amounts of secretory component were normal. Jejunal and rectal biopsies showed prominent lymphonodular hyperplasia, but no cells containing IgA. A normal serum IgA level therefore does not always predict an intact secretory IgA system.
ATTEMPT AT ENZYME REPLACEMENT IN GAUCHER DISEASE BY RENAL TRANSPLANTATION
Authors: GROTH C. G. , COLLSTE H. , DREBORG S. , HÅKANSSON G. , LUNDGREN G. , SVENNERHOLM L.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. In Gaucher disease there is a deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme, cerebroside‐β‐glucosidase, as a result of which cerebroside (glucosylceramide) accumulates in various organs. In northern Sweden 22 patients with a juvenile form of this disease have been identified. In one such patient, a girl of 10 years, we have attempted enzyme replacement by renal transplantation. After this operation the hepatic glucocerebroside content fell significantly. In another child afflicted with Gaucher disease in whom splenectomy was performed for severe splenomegaly and hypersplenism there was a progressive increase in the level of this lipid. These findings suggest that enzyme replacement was achieved by transplantation of a normal organ.
THE PROTECTIVE EFFECT OF ACUTE PHASE REACTANTS IN NEONATAL SEPSIS
Authors: PHILIP ALISTAIR G. S.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Phase reactants were evaluated prospectively in babies suspected of having sepsis. Among 318 babies, there were 22 proven and 10 “very probable” cases of neonatal sepsis. Of the proven cases 14 survived and 8 died. The survivors had a positive latex C‐reactive protein (CRP) in 11 cases and an alpha1‐acid glycoprotein (AGP) level greater than 0.5 g/l in 12 cases. Among those who died, one had a positive latex CRP and none had AGP >0.5 g/l. These findings were supported by positive CRP and elevated AGP in almost all “very probable” cases, all of whom survived. These data in newborn infants support the hypothesis that acute phase reactants have a functional role in combating infection.
CLINICAL FINDINGS AND INTESTINAL IMMUNOGLOBULINS IN CHILDREN WITH PARTIAL IgA DEFICIENCY
Authors: SAVILAHTI E. , PELKONEN P.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. We studied the intestinal morphology, and the jejunal and rectal immunoglobulins of 16 children with partial IgA deficiency, defined as serum IgA concentration more than two standard deviations below the mean for age, but higher than the lower limit of sensitivity of single radial immunodiffusion (0.02 g/l). Five of the patients had been treated with phenytoin, 2 had juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, 2 had ulcerative colitis and 5 had recurrent upper respiratory tract infections. The jejunal morphology was normal in every case. In 6 cases normalization of serum IgA occurred during the follow‐up, while in one patient with ulcerative colitis the concentration fell below 0.02 g/l. In patients with recurrent infections, there was a decreased frequency of infections when the level of serum igA increased. In 4 patients, IgM‐containing cells predominated in both the jejunal and rectal mucosa, and IgM was increased in the intestinal juice. In 6 patients a significant increase in IgM‐containing cells or a decrease in IgA‐containing cells or both were seen in either the rectal or jejunal mucosa. There was no correlation between the number of IgA‐containing cells in the intestinal mucosa and the serum level of IgA.
SOCIAL BACKGROUND AND LIFE EVENTS OF CHILDREN ADMITTED TO A PAEDIATRIC DEPARTMENT
Authors: AAGAARD J.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. During a period of one year a questionnaire was filled in by parents of children who were more than one year old and admitted to the paediatric department in Randers, Denmark. The questionnaire was especially concerned with factors describing the social background of the family and with selected life events. Family background variables such as low level of parents' education and low income were found to be associated with psychosomatic and psychic diseases of the children. No associations between these negative family background variables and respiratory tract infections were found. The data show a strikingly high frequency of selected life events. Noticeable intercorrelations were found between social factors, life events, and diagnostic groups. In the light of this, it was not considered meaningful to analyze life events independently of the family background variables. A combined measurement for family background variables and selected life events was strongly associated with psychosomatic and psychic diseases. The additional information due to life events over the information due to family background variables was pronounced. It was remarkable that stressful life events also were frequent among children with some somatic diseases. The inference of these results is a plea for application of analysis of individual social history to more hospitalized children. The results might further have implications for preventive work with respect to the changes which seem to have taken place in important social conditions.
SPONTANEOUS LABOUR AND ELECTIVE INDUCTION—A PROSPECTIVE RANDOMIZED STUDY Behavioural Assessment and Neurological Examination in the Newborn Period
Authors: LEIJON INGEMAR , FINNSTRÖM ORVAR , HEDENSKOG STAFFAN , RYDÉN GUNNAR , TYLLESKÄR JOHN
Published: January 2008

Abstract. The effect of induction of labour on the foetus and the newborn was investigated in a prospective randomized study. 41 neonates were studied after induction at full term by amniotomy and intravenous oxytocin infusion. The infusion rate was regulated by the intraamniotic pressure using the Cardiff infusion pump system. 39 neonates served as controls where the labour started spontaneously followed by amniotomy. In both groups foetal heart rate monitoring and intraamniotic pressure recordings were performed. There were no differences in Apgar score and pH in cord blood between the groups. The newborns were evaluated the first and the fifth day of life with the Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale and with a modified Prechtl neurological examination. There were no differences in behaviour and neurological state between the two groups. However, within the groups there were significant differences between the first and the fifth day concerning both neonatal behaviour and neurological state.