bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Rapid systematic review of interventions to improve antenatal screening rates for syphilis, hepatitis B, and HIV in low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Harrison J. , Lind P. , Sawleshwarkar S. , Pasupathy D. , Yapa H. M. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackgroundInfectious diseases including syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B are major contributors to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide, especially in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). The World Health Organization has prioritized elimination of vertical transmission of these three diseases.ObjectivesTo rapidly assess the impact of interventions designed to improve antenatal screening rates for syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B in LMICs and to identify areas for future implementation research.Search StrategyA comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, and EconLit, targeting articles published between January 1, 2013, and June 27, 2023.Selection CriteriaWe included quantitative interventional studies in English, involving pregnant adults (15 years or older) from LMICs. Exclusions were studies based in high‐income countries, qualitative studies, or those investigating accuracy of diagnostic methods.Data Collection and AnalysisFrom an initial 5549 potential studies, 27 were finalized for review after various screening stages. Data extraction covered aspects such as study design, intervention details, and outcomes. Findings were qualitatively synthesized within a systems thinking framework.Main ResultsThe interventions assessed varied in terms of geographic locations, health care system levels, and modalities. The review highlighted the effectiveness of interventions such as community health interventions, service quality improvements, and financial incentives.ConclusionsThe study underscores the potential of specific interventions in enhancing antenatal screening rates in LMICs. However, there is a discernible research gap concerning hepatitis B. The findings emphasize the importance of capacity building and health systems strengthening in public health interventions.
Polyethylene glycol compared to lactulose for constipation in pregnancy: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Raj Victoria Ivy , Hassan Azyyati , Hanafiah Nurulashikin , Azhary Jerilee Mariam Khong , Lim Boon Kiong , Saaid Rahmah , Gan Farah , Tan Peng Chiong 
Published: February 2024

AbstractObjectiveTo compare polyethylene glycol 4000 versus lactulose in chronic constipation during pregnancy.MethodsWomen at 28–32 weeks' gestation attending antenatal clinic for routine care were screened using the Rome IV chronic constipation criterion. Eligible women were approached and consented. Participants were randomized to oral polyethylene glycol (10 g/day) or lactulose (10 g/day) for 4 weeks. A bowel movement diary was kept and outcomes using the Patient Assessment of Constipation Symptoms questionnaire (PAC‐SYM), Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life questionnaire (PAC‐QoL) and Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS), which were evaluated at the start and end of the four‐week period. Relative risks (RR) were determined for the coprimary outcomes of complete spontaneous bowel movement (CSBM) and PAC‐SYM mean score improvement (decrease in score of >1 from the baseline).ResultsA total of 4323 women underwent screening, of which 780 fulfilled the Rome IV criterion, and 360 consented to participate (180 randomized to PEG and lactulose, respectively). Data from 247 women who completed the study were analyzed. CSBM was achieved in 107/124 (86.3%) versus 102/123 (82.9%) (RR 1.04, 95% CI: 0.93–1.16, P = 0.464) for PEG and lactulose trial arms, respectively. PAC‐SYM mean score improvement was 62/118 (52.5%) in the PEG arm versus 44/118 (37.3%) in the lactulose arm (RR 1.40, 95% CI: 1.05–1.88). Of secondary outcomes, a significant difference was found in favor of PEG, with respect to PAC‐SYM abdominal symptoms subscale, normal stool versus loose stool consistency and side effects of vomiting and diarrhea. After controlling for parity, baseline PAC‐SYM, PAC‐QoL scores, characteristics different at baseline, only diarrhea and loose stools remained significant.ConclusionBoth PEG 4000 and lactulose are effective laxatives in pregnancy with similar performance after adjusted analysis. Diarrhea and loose stools are less frequently reported with PEG.
Estimation of 24‐Hour Polyamine Intake From Mature Human Milk
Authors: Dorhout Bernard , van Beusekom Christien M. , Huisman Marcel , Kingma Anneke W. , de Hoog Elly , Rudy Boersma E. , Muskiet Frits A. J. 
Published: February 2024

SummaryIt has been suggested that milk polyamines stimulate GI tract proliferation and maturation in newborns. We determined human milk polyamine concentrations and estimated 24‐h outputs on days 16 ± 4 (n = 98), 44 ± 3 (n = 97) and 91 ± 6 (n = 25) after delivery. Median concentrations in micromolars were, respectively, putrescine 0.77, 0.63, and 0.63; spermidine 4.54, 3.07, and 2.73; spermine 3.76, 2.90, and 2.22; and total polyamines 9.82, 6.83, and 5.71. Concentrations of spermidine, spermine, and total polyamines decreased during the observation period. Putrescine, spermidine, and spermine milk/maternal plasma ratios were estimated to be 16‐19, 14‐24, and 44‐75, respectively. It would appear that milk polyamines are derived from the high polyamine contents in the mammary gland and that they may be important in infant nutrition.
Effect of Small Variations of Aluminum Intake on Calcium Metabolism in Young Rats
Authors: Boudey M. , Bureau F. , Placé C. , Neuville D. , Drosdowsky M. , Arhan P. , Bouglé D. 
Published: February 2024

Background:While in the adult Al intoxication requires high dosages, little is known on the threshold level of Al toxicity in the young.Methods:Weaning rats were fed for 90 days ore of four diets differing by their content in Ca (7.5 vs <0.5g/<g diet)(Ca +/‐) and Al (10.6 vs 8.4 mg/kg)(Al +/‐); Al supplementation was 30% above the standard level of diet. Ca and Al levels were measured in liver, bone (femur), and brain.Results:Ca‐ had a significant negative effect on growth which was further reduced by Al+; in Ca sufficient/Al+ animals, Al concentrations were significantly increased in bone and brain and tended to increase in liver; Ca decreases observed in these three organs were only significant in brain. Ca deficiency further enhanced the Al deposit in bone at both levels of Al intakes, and reduced Ca concentrations in these three organs in Al+ animals; in Ca‐/Al‐ animals, the decrease in Ca displayed in the three tissues reached a significant level in brain.Conclusions:This study suggests that in the growing subject the side effects of small variations of Al intake can be enhanced when they are combined with other mineral imbalances.
Delayed Encephalopathy in Fulminant Hepatic Failure in the Pediatric Population and the Role of Liver Transplantation
Authors: Rivera‐Penera Teresa , Moreno Jose , Skaff Christopher , McDiarmid Sue , Vargas Jorge , Ament Marvin E. 
Published: February 2024

Background:Liver transplantation is the therapeutic choice for fulminant hepatic failure in children.Methods:All 66 cases of fulminant hepatic failure in the pediatric population seen at UCLA from May, 1985 to November, 1993 were reviewed to determine changes in survival rates since the advent of liver transplantation. We evaluated the clinical course and events leading to the exclusion of surgical management of nonsurvivors, who otherwise would have benefited from a liver transplant. We also compared the latter's clinical course with the nontransplant survivors to determine parameters for screening patients for liver transplantation.Results:Fifty‐one patient (77%) were put on the transplant list initially but eventually, only 38 (58%) patients underwent orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) and of these 30 (79%) patients survived. Of the remaining 29 (42%) patients who did not undergo liver transplantation, only 10 (36%) patients survived. Nine patients died while waiting for a donor liver secondary to complications of hepatic failure. The majority of nonsurvivors in the OLT and no‐OLT groups succumbed because of irreversible neurologic deterioration. In the no‐OLT group, comparisons between survivors and non‐survivors were made. There were no significant demographic differences. It took a mean of 8 days (±8) versus 22 days (±15), (p = 0.009), from onset of illness to first hospital admission for survivors and nonsurvivors, respectively. Time to reach stage II encephalopathy was a mean of 5 days (±5) for survivors versus 18 days (±16), (p = 0.05) for nonsurvivors. Nonsurvivors were transferred to the transplant center at a mean of 12.2 days (±12) after being first admitted elsewhere as compared to a mean of 1.9 days (±18) for survivors, (p = 0.02). Mean prothrombin time decreased by a mean of 13.4 s/day (±16) for survivors as against 2.25 s/day (±6) for nonsurvivors, (p = 0.06). Mean peak total bilirubin for nonsurvivors was 460 μmol/L (27 mg/dl) versus 220 μmol/L (13 mg/dl) for survivors, (p = 0.06). Nonsurvivors died at a mean of 30 days (±19) from onset and survivors' liver tests started to improve at a mean of 11 days (±9) from onset.Conclusions:From these studies, we conclude that liver transplantation remains the therapeutic choice for fulminant hepatic failure in children. Early referral and closer follow‐up is necessary for timely admission to liver transplant centers to enable screening and proper preparation of these patients for liver transplantation.
Enteral Nutrition Modifies Gut‐associated Lymphoid Tissue in Rat Regardless of the Molecular Form of Nitrogen Supply
Authors: Guihot Gwénaële , Merle Véronique , Leborgne Michelle , Pivert Gérard , Corriol Odile , Brousse Nicole , Ricour Claude , Colomb Virginie 
Published: February 2024

Background:It has been suggested that beneficial effect of elemental enteral diets in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases could be mediated by the suppression of protein dietary antigens. The objective of the present work was to study the effect of enteral diet on gut associated lymphoid tissue and on gastric Lactobacillus flora, in rat.Methods:The effects of three molecular forms of nitrogen supply: aminoacids, oligopeptides or whole casein, were compared in rats on continuous enteral diet. Frozen sections of small bowel were studied with monoclonal antibodies anti‐CD5, ‐CD4, ‐CD8, ‐CD25, ‐macrophages, ‐MHC II. The Lactobacillus flora was also enumerated in the stomach, in order to assess the effect of ED on rat flora.Results:Growth and mucosa morphology were identical in control and enteral groups. Rats on enteral diet showed, whatever was the molecular form of nitrogen supply, a decrease in CD5+, CD4+ and CD8+ intraepithelial cell numbers, but not in lamina propria cell number, and a decreased MHC II epithelial expression, when compared to control rats. The enterally fed rats also showed a decrease in Lactobacillus gastric contents.Conclusions:The current study demonstrates that continuous enteral nutrition modifies MHC II epithelial expression and gut associated lymphoid tissue cell number in rat, whatever is the molecular form of nitrogen supply. Intestinal flora could be responsible, at least for part, for these results.
Pattern of Metabolism and Composition of the Fecal Microflora in Infants 10 to 18 Months Old from Day Care Centers
Authors: Guérin‐Danan C. , Andrieux C. , Popot F. , Charpilienne A. , Vaissade P. , Gaudichon C. , Pedone C. , Bouley C. , Szylit O. 
Published: February 2024

Background:From 5 months of age, infants are progressively introduced to a variety of foods which influence the equilibrium of the intestinal microflora.Methods:Thirty‐five children aged 10‐18 months from 8 day care centers in France were studied. Fecal specimens were examined for their biochemical and microbiological criteria.Results:Bifidobacteria and Bacteroides belong to the predominant populations (9.7 and 8.6 log 10 cfu/g, respectively). The mean level of enterobacteria and enterococci were 8.0 and 7.8 log 10 cfu/g, respectively. Only 10% of the infants presented a lactobacilli amount above 6 log 10 cfu/g. Most feces had similar pH values (mean 6.4), percentage of water (mean 76.4%), and short chain fatty acid, ammonia and lactic acid concentrations (means 77, 6.7 and 2.3 μmol/g, respectively). β‐galactosidase had the highest activity (106 IU/g of protein) and nitroreductase, the lowest (0.1 IU/g of protein). α‐glucosidase and nitrate reductase showed intermediate values of 17 and 4 IU/g of protein, respectively. With the exception of 4 infants, β‐glucosidase and β‐glucuronidase values were low (4 and 2 IU/g of protein). Age and day care center were not significant factors for most parameters studied, except that rotavirus was related to day care center, with detection in 5 infants from the same center.Conclusions:Many biochemical parameters were comparable to those found in adults, with the exception of ammonia concentration and β‐galactosidase activity. The fecal bacterial profile was different than in adults, with more Bifidobacteria than Bacteroides and higher levels of facultative anaerobes. One infant suffering from gastroenteritis had distinctive biochemical and bacterial parameters.
In Situ Rantes and Interferon‐γ Gene Expression in Pediatric Small Bowel Crohn's Disease
Authors: Berrebi Dominique , Banerjee Ananda , Paris Régine , Potet François , Aigrain Yves , Emilie Dominique , Cezard Jean‐Pierre , Hugot Jean‐Pierre , Navarro Jean , Peuchmaur Michel 
Published: February 2024

BackgroundRantes (regulated upon activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted) is a chemotactic cytokine for memory T lymphocytes, monocytes, and eosinophils. The cytokine interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) plays a key in the immune response. Their distributions and possible roles in the selective accumulation of inflammatory cells in Crohn's disease (CD) were examined by determining the expression of Rantes and IFN‐γ genes in patients with CD using in situ hybridization (ISH) on frozen and paraffin‐embedded tissue sections.MethodsIntestinal and mesenteric lymph node samples from 9 children who had undergone ileal resection for CD were examined for the presence of epithelioid‐giant cell granulomas (EGCG) and Rantes and IFN‐γ messenger RNA (mRNA). Normal pediatric intestine (n = 5) and lymph nodes (n = 2) served as controls.ResultsMany cells in all CD specimens in the epithelial compartment, lamina propria, and the EGCG gave positive signal with the Rantes antisense probe. Labelled cells were identified on paraffin sections as lymphocytes, macrophages, and epithelioid cells. There were Rantes‐positive cells in the control intestinal tissues, but many Rantes‐positive cells in control lymph nodes that showed follicular hyperplasia. IFN‐γ‐positive cells were present in all CD ileal and lymph node specimens, predominantly in close contact with EGCC. No positive signal was obtained with the Rantes and IFN‐γ sense control probes.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that Rantes and IFN‐γ contribute to the selective accumulation of macrophages and memory T helper lymphocytes inside the granulomas and inflammatory infiltrates that are characteristic of CD.
Possible Antioxidant Effect of Vitamin A Supplementation in Premature Infants
Authors: Schwarz Kathleen B. , Cox Jeanne M. , Sharma Savitri , Clement Liliana , Humphrey Jean , Gleason Christine , Abbey Helen , Sehnert Shelley S. , Risby Terence H. 
Published: February 2024

BackgroundIncreased lipid peroxidation caused by oxygen free radicals is thought to be one of the common pathogenetic mechanisms for the so‐called oxygen radical diseases of prematurity. Since in vitro studies have shown that various forms of vitamin A can exert antioxidant effects that are more potent than those of vitamin E (treatment with which has been ineffective in these diseases), the purpose of this prospective, controlled study was to determine whether administration of supplemental vitamin A to premature infants deficient in this vitamin would have an antioxidant effect in vivo.MethodsFourteen infants (1181 ± 35 g; gestational age 29 ± 0.04 weeks) with a serum retinol concentration at 7 ± 2 days of age in the deficient range, lower than 0.7 μmol/l (<20 μg/dl), were enrolled in the study. Infants were randomized to receive the standard amount of vitamin A or standard plus supplemental (2.6 μmol/l [2500 IU] orally each day) vitamin A, beginning at 1 week of age. Antioxidant effects of supplementation were assessed by a decrease in lipid peroxidation, quantified by the ethane content of expired air.ResultsThree weeks after study enrollment, total daily vitamin A intake in the infants receiving supplements was 4.565 ± 0.236 μmol (4354 ± 225 IU) versus 1.879 ± 0.317 μmol/l (1792 ± 302 IU) in infants receiving standard amounts of the vitamin. In spite of the difference in intake of vitamin A, 3 weeks after study enrollment, serum retinol concentrations did not differ between the infants given supplements and those receiving standard amounts of vitamin A, 0.70 ± 0.21 versus 0.66 ± 0.07 μmol/l (20 ± 6 μg/dl versus 19 ± 2 μg/dl, respectively). In the infants receiving supplemental vitamin A, breath ethane values declined from baseline values. There was an inverse correlation between the number of weeks of supplementation and breath ethane values, whereas there was no significant correlation between the duration of the study and breath ethane values in the infants not given supplements.ConclusionsOur data suggest that supplementation with vitamin A in a small group of vitamin A‐deficient preterm infants was associated with an antioxidant effect. Although no immediate clinical benefits were associated with supplementation, the data provide the rationale for future investigations of possible antioxidant effects of (larger amounts?) of vitamin A in higher risk premature infants born with subnormal serum retinol concentrations.
Esophageal Strictures in Children with Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa: Experience of Balloon Dilatation in Nine Cases
Authors: Fujimoto Takao , Lane Geoffrey J. , Miyano Takeshi , Yaguchi Hitoshi , Koike Mika , Manabe Motomu , Ogawa Hideyo , Mizushima Akira , Suzuki Genichi 
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACTBackground:Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa is a rare disorder characterized by extreme vulnerability of the squamous epithelium and mucous membranes. Minor trauma such as is caused by swallowing solid food is followed by blistering and scarring. Stricture formation at the pharyngoesophageal junction (C6 or C7) is the severest complication of this disease.Methods:We evaluate the effectiveness of Microvasive Rigiflex balloon dilatation and extensive nutritional support as a primary treatment for this condition. Nine of 21 recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa patients developed esophageal strictures at the level of the pharyngo‐esophageal junction (C6). We treated them with intensive nutritional therapy followed by balloon dilatation, which produces longitudinal pressure and provides prompt relief from esophageal stricture. Eleven balloon dilatations have been performed in 9 patients.Results:All patients had poor physical development and were severely malnourished; extensive nutritional support was required before treatment could begin. Balloon dilatation was performed once in seven patients and twice in two patients. No recurrent stricture formation was observed after balloon dilatation.Conclusion:Intensive nutritional support followed by balloon dilatation is the first choice of treatment for esophageal strictures complicating recessive epidermolysis bullosa. By following this regime, invasive surgery can be avoided.
Measured Consumption of Commercial Infant Food Products in German Infants: Results From the DONALD Study
Authors: Kersting Mathilde , Alexy Ute , Sichert‐Hellert Wolfgang , Manz Friedrich , Schöch Gerhard 
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACTBackground:Commercial food products intended for infants form an important part of the diet. Such products are defined as special dietetic food by food legislation. However, quantitative consumption data in the context of the current European Community (EC) food regulations have not been available up to now.Methods:Six hundred eighty 3‐day weighed diet records from 3‐, 6‐, 9‐, and 12‐month‐old infants involved in the DONALD (Dortmund Nutritional and Anthropometrical Longitudinally Designed) Study were evaluated regarding overall and individual consumption of commercial infant food (CIF). Here, CIF was allocated to the food categories of the current EC directives.Results:Four hundred eighteen varieties of infant food were recorded. The total CIF (formulae; beikost [any food or drink other than breast milk or infant and follow‐on formulae]) reached percentages of the total food intake (including breast milk) of 51% (47%; 4%), 62% (33%; 29%), 53% (20%; 32%), and 37% (13%; 24%) at the ages of 3, 6, 9 and 12 months, respectively. Approximately 55% (95%) of the 3‐month‐old infants (range, 6‐12 months) consumed some sort of CIF, but the highest amounts were observed at 6 months and the highest numbers of consumers at 9 months. Depending on the definition of “high consumers” of CIF, the individual consumption quantities (in grams per kilogram per day) differed by a maximum of 60% but high consumers were always found in the 6‐month‐old group.Conclusion:The high proportions of CIF in the diet during a critical developmental period call for a guaranteed high nutritional and safety quality of CIF and for realistic data on consumption patterns.
Effects of Protein Restriction in Early Life on Growth and Function of the Gastrointestinal Tract of the Rat
Authors: Weaver Lawrence T. , Desai Mina , Austin Steven , Arthur Helen M. L. , Lucas Alan , Hales C. Nicholas 
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACTBackground:Undernutrition during early life may have both immediate and later consequences. This study was undertaken to measure the long‐term effects of perinatal undernutrition on the growth and function of the gastrointestinal tract.Methods:Pregnant rats were assigned to one of four groups that received isocaloric diets restricted in protein during pregnancy or lactation and during both or neither. Thereafter, their pups were followed until aged 1 year.Results:At 21 days the body weights of the young of those born of dams with postnatal protein restriction were halved, with comparable reductions in the weights of the stomach and caecum, compared with those of control animals. The lengths of the small and large intestines and mucosal weights of the foregut were also significantly reduced. Lactase activities were significantly increased and sucrase and maltase activities significantly reduced. By 42 days all the effects were less marked, and at 1 year the dimensions of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract and the composition and enzyme levels of the mucosa were all insignificantly different relative to body weight.Conclusions:Prenatal protein restriction alone had no significant long‐term negative effects on body weight, growth, or mucosal hydrolase activity of the gastrointestinal tract. Postnatal protein restriction had a marked effect on these indices in early life and delayed the changes in mucosal hydrolases usually seen at weaning. In contrast with other organs and their functions, long‐term growth of the gut and activity of small intestinal hydrolases are preserved in the face of perinatal protein restriction.