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Abstract Background Long-chain fatty acid oxidation disorders (LC-FAOD) are rare and potentially life-threatening diseases that cause deficient energy production and accumulation of toxic metabolites. Despite dietary management, adherence to maximum fasting guidelines, restricted long-chain triglyceride intake and supplementation with medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil (current standard of care), most patients experience recurrent decompensation episodes that can require hospitalisation. Herein, we analysed the effectiveness and safety of triheptanoin (a highly purified, synthetic medium odd-chain triglyceride) treatment in a cohort of Italian patients with LC-FAOD. Methods This retrospective, nationwide study included nine patients with LC-FAOD who switched from standard therapy with MCT oil to triheptanoin oral liquid. Data were collected between 2018 and 2022. Clinical outcome measures were the number and duration of intercurrent catabolic episodes and number and duration of metabolic decompensation episodes requiring hospitalisation. Creatine kinase (CK) levels and treatment-related adverse effects were also reported. Results Patients were provided a mean ± standard deviation (SD) triheptanoin dose of 1.5 ± 0.9 g/kg/day in four divided administrations, which accounted for 23.9 ± 8.9% of patients’ total daily caloric intake. Triheptanoin treatment was started between 2.7 and 16 years of age and was continued for 2.2 ± 0.9 years. The number of intercurrent catabolic episodes during triheptanoin treatment was significantly lower than during MCT therapy (4.3 ± 5.3 vs 22.0 ± 22.2; p = 0.034), as were the number of metabolic decompensations requiring hospitalisation (mean ± SD: 2.0 ± 2.5 vs 18.3 ± 17.7; p = 0.014), and annualised hospitalisation rates and duration. Mean CK levels (outside metabolic decompensation episodes) were lower with triheptanoin treatment versus MCT oil for seven patients. No intensive care unit admissions were required during triheptanoin treatment. Epigastric pain and diarrhoea were recorded as adverse effects during both MCT and triheptanoin treatment. Conclusions The significant improvement in clinical outcome measures after the administration of triheptanoin highlights that this treatment approach can be more effective than MCT supplementation in patients with LC-FAOD. Triheptanoin was well tolerated and decreased the number of intercurrent catabolic episodes, metabolic decompensation episodes requiring hospitalisation, and the annualised rate and duration of hospitalisations.

Introduction Hepatic artery complications (HACs), such as a thrombosis or stenosis, are serious causes of morbidity and mortality after paediatric liver transplantation (LT). This study will investigate the incidence, current management practices and outcomes in paediatric patients with HAC after LT, including early and late complications.Methods and analysis The HEPatic Artery stenosis and Thrombosis after liver transplantation In Children (HEPATIC) Registry is an international, retrospective, multicentre, observational study. Any paediatric patient diagnosed with HAC and treated for HAC (at age

BackgroundHepatoblastoma (HB) is the most common pediatric hepatic malignancy. Despite the progress in HB treatment, investigating HB pathomechanisms to optimize stratification and therapies remains a focal point to improve the outcome for high-risk patients.MethodsHere, we pointed to explore the impact of these mechanisms in HB. An observational study was performed on liver samples from a cohort of 17 patients with a diagnosis of HB and two normal liver samples. The in vitro experiments were executed on the Huh6 human HB cell line treated with the FAK inhibitor TAE226.ResultsOur results highlight a significant up-regulation of mRNA and protein expression of FAK in livers from HB with respect to normal livers. The increased protein expression of total and Tyr397 phosphorylated FAK (pTyr397FAK) was significantly correlated with the expression of some epigenetic regulators of histone H3 methylation and acetylation. Of note, the expression of pTyr397FAK, N-methyltransferase enzyme (EZH2) and tri-methylation of the H3K27 residue correlated with tumor size and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels. Finally, TAE226 caused a significant reduction of pTyr397FAK, epigenetic regulators, AFP, EPCAM, OCT4, and SOX2, in association with anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects on HB cells.ConclusionOur results suggest a role of FAK in HB that requires further investigations mainly focused on the exploration of its effective diagnostic and therapeutic translatability.

IntroductionThe diagnosis of biliary atresia (BA) remains challenging, and there is still uncertainty regarding the optimal time to perform a Kasai portoenterostomy (KPE). Little is known about the difficulties in the diagnosis and outcomes of BA in preterm infants (PBA). This study, which represents the first Italian report of preterm infants with BA, aims to describe a single-center experience of BA in preterm newborns.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed all infants consecutively diagnosed with BA who underwent a Kasai procedure at the Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital between January 1998 and December 2021. Prematurity was defined as a gestational age (GA) of

Background: Chorea is a neurological disorder characterized by random, fluid movements that may affect the limbs, trunk, neck, or face. In children, Sydenham’s chorea (SC) is the most common cause of acute chorea, mainly following group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal (GABHS) infection. Other autoimmune and metabolic disorders may also cause chorea. Case presentation: We report the case of a 6-year-old girl who developed chorea following cardiac surgery for mitral insufficiency. One week after discharge, the patient presented with right-sided hyposthenia, slower speech, mild dysarthria, and sialorrhea. Brain MRI and intracranial MRI angiography revealed a small vascular lesion consistent with a microembolic event. Extensive diagnostic investigations, including serum panels for autoimmune encephalitis, neurotropic viruses, and metabolic disorders, were negative. Conclusions: Considering the patient’s history, clinical course, and the exclusion of other potential causes, a diagnosis of post-pump chorea was made. This case underlines the importance of a thorough differential diagnosis in pediatric chorea and highlights post-pump chorea as a significant postoperative complication in pediatric cardiac surgery. The patient’s motor symptoms improved with symptomatic treatment, and follow-up showed good recovery without neurological sequelae.

Abstract Background GD and ASMD are lysosomal storage disorders that enter into differential diagnosis due to the possible overlap in their clinical manifestations. The availability of safe and effective enzymatic therapies has recently led many investigators to develop and validate new screening tools, such as algorithms, for the diagnosis of LSDs where the lack of disease awareness or failure to implement newborn screening results in a delayed diagnosis. Results the proposed algorithm allows for the clinical and biochemical differentiation between GD and ASMD. It is based on enzyme activity assessed on dried blood spots by multiplexed tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) coupled to specific biomarkers as second-tier analysis. Conclusions we believe that this method will provide a simple, convenient and sensitive tool for the screening of a selected population that can be used by pediatricians and other specialists (such as pediatric hematologists and pediatric hepatologists) often engaged in diagnosing these disorders.

Introduction. AADCd is an ultrarare, underdiagnosed neurometabolic disorder for which a screening test (3-OMD dosing on dried blood spot (DBS)) and targeted gene therapy (authorized in the EU and the UK) are available. Therefore, it is mandatory to raise awareness of presenting symptoms and signs among practitioners. Delivering scientifically sound information to promote screening of patients with the correct cluster of symptoms and signs would be critical. Materials and Methods. In light of the lack of sound evidence on this issue, expert opinion level of evidence was elicited with the Delphi method. Fourteen steering committee members invited a panel of 29 Italian experts to express their opinions on a series of crucial but controversial topics related to using 3-OMD DBS as a screening method in AADCd. Clusters of symptoms and signs were divided into typical or atypical, depending on age groups. Inclusion in newborn screening programs and the usefulness of a clinical score were investigated. A five-point Likert scale was used to rate the level of priority attributed to each statement. Results. The following statements reached the highest priority: testing pediatric patients with hypotonia, developmental delay, movement disorders, and oculogyric crises; inclusion of 3-OMD dosing on DBS in neonatal screening programs; development of a clinical score to support patients’ selection for 3-OMD screening; among atypical phenotypes based on clinical characteristics of Italian patients: testing patients with intellectual disability and parkinsonism-dystonia. Discussion. Clusters of symptoms and signs can be used to prioritize testing with 3-OMD DBS. A clinical score was rated as highly relevant for the patient’s selection. The inclusion of 3-OMD dosing in newborn screening programs was advocated with high clinical priority.

Introduction Portal vein obstruction (PVO) consists of anastomotic stenosis and thrombosis, which occurs due to a progression of the former. The aim of this large-scale international study is to assess the prevalence, current management practices and efficacy of treatment in patients with PVO.Methods and analysis The Portal vein Obstruction Revascularisation Therapy After Liver transplantation registry will facilitate an international, retrospective, multicentre, observational study, with 25 centres around the world already actively involved. Paediatric patients (aged

BackgroundTuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare multisystemic disorder. This genetically determined disease is characterized by highly variable clinical expression, including epilepsy as a common feature. Seizures can also occur as a manifestation of symptomatic hypoglycemia. The latter could be caused by an insulinoma, whose association to TSC has already been debated. In TSC-associated tumors, dysregulation of the mTOR pathway is believed to be present, leading to significant impacts on cellular metabolism, growht, and proliferation. To date, the association between TSC and insulinoma has been reported in 11 adults. Here, we present the first case of a pediatric patient with TSC diagnosed with an insulinoma and review the existing literature on this topic.Case presentationA 11-year-old female with TSC presented with seizures unresponsive to standard therapy. Further investigation revealed that these seizures were caused by hypoglycemia. Subsequent evaluation led to the diagnosis of a pancreatic insulinoma, which was surgically removed. Following the procedure, the patient was free from seizures.ConclusionsIn individuals with TSC, the recurrence of epileptiform episodes throughout their lifetime, especially if previously well controlled with antiepileptic therapy, should raise suspicion for hypoglycemic events. These events may potentially be associated with the presence of an insulinoma. Further research and increased awareness are necessary to gain a better understanding of the association between TSC and insulinomas, and to guide clinical management strategies.

IntroductionThe study of immune response to SARSCoV-2 infection in different solid organ transplant settings represents an opportunity for clarifying the interplay between SARS-CoV-2 and the immune system. In our nationwide registry study from Italy, we specifically evaluated, during the first wave pandemic, i.e., in non-vaccinated patients, COVID-19 prevalence of infection, mortality, and lethality in liver transplant recipients (LTRs), using non-liver solid transplant recipients (NL-SOTRs) and the Italian general population (GP) as comparators.MethodsCase collection started from February 21 to June 22, 2020, using the data from the National Institute of Health and National Transplant Center, whereas the data analysis was performed on September 30, 2020.To compare the sex- and age-adjusted distribution of infection, mortality, and lethality in LTRs, NL-SOTRs, and Italian GP we applied an indirect standardization method to determine the standardized rate.ResultsAmong the 43,983 Italian SOTRs with a functioning graft, LTRs accounted for 14,168 patients, of whom 89 were SARS-CoV-2 infected. In the 29,815 NL-SOTRs, 361 cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection were observed. The geographical distribution of the disease was highly variable across the different Italian regions. The standardized rate of infection, mortality, and lethality rates in LTRs resulted lower compared to NL-SOTRs [1.02 (95%CI 0.81-1.23) vs. 2.01 (95%CI 1.8-2.2); 1.0 (95%CI 0.5-1.5) vs. 4.5 (95%CI 3.6-5.3); 1.6 (95%CI 0.7-2.4) vs. 2.8 (95%CI 2.2-3.3), respectively] and comparable to the Italian GP.DiscussionAccording to the most recent studies on SOTRs and SARS-CoV-2 infection, our data strongly suggest that, in contrast to what was observed in NL-SOTRs receiving a similar immunosuppressive therapy, LTRs have the same risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, mortality, and lethality observed in the general population. These results suggest an immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection in LTRS that is different from NL-SOTRs, probably related to the ability of the grafted liver to induce immunotolerance.

Urea cycle disorders (UCDs) are a group of rare inborn errors of metabolism caused by a deficiency in one of the six enzymes or one of the two transporters involved in the urea cycle. Current guidelines suggest that early diagnosis and treatment of mild UCDs may improve survival and prevent decompensation and neurocognitive impairment. Nevertheless, clinical studies are very difficult to carry out in this setting due to the rarity of the diseases, and high-level evidence is scant and insufficient to draw conclusions and provide clinical guidelines. With the early introduction of newborn screening, the Italian healthcare organization fostered an advancement in expertise in metabolic disease management and screening programs, by allocating resources, and favoring the expansion of newborn screening. A group of experts operating in Italian centers decided to share their experience and provide advice for the management of mild UCDs in clinical practice. A consensus was reached by the Estimate–Talk–Estimate (ETE) method. Five items were identified, and statements for each item were agreed. Briefly, the panel advised completing the diagnosis by expanded newborn screening (ENS) with biochemical and genetic confirmation and by following up with the patient during the first year of life, with a routine laboratory and metabolic profile as well as with clinical observation. Early initiation of therapy is advised and should be followed by therapy adjustment once the diagnostic profile is completed. The therapy should be based on a low-protein diet and nitrogen scavengers. The long-term follow-up is based on growth and nutritional assessment, clinical and neurocognitive evaluation, and laboratory and instrumental parameter monitoring.

Abstract Background Methylmalonic aciduria and homocystinuria, CblC type (OMIM #277400) is the most common disorder of cobalamin intracellular metabolism, an autosomal recessive disease, whose biochemical hallmarks are hyperhomocysteinemia, methylmalonic aciduria and low plasma methionine. Despite being a well-recognized disease for pediatricians, there is scarce awareness of its adult presentation. A thorough analysis and discussion of cobalamin C defect presentation in adult patients has never been extensively performed. This article reviews the published data and adds a new case of the latest onset of symptoms ever described for the disease. Results We present the emblematic case of a 45-year-old male, describing the diagnostic odyssey he ventured through to get to the appropriate treatment and molecular diagnosis. Furthermore, available clinical, biochemical and molecular data from 22 reports on cases and case series were collected, resulting in 45 adult-onset CblC cases, including our own. We describe the onset of the disease in adulthood, encompassing neurological, psychiatric, renal, ophthalmic and thromboembolic symptoms. In all cases treatment with intramuscular hydroxycobalamin was effective in reversing symptoms. From a molecular point of view adult patients are usually compound heterozygous carriers of a truncating and a non-truncating variant in the MMACHC gene. Conclusion Adult onset CblC disease is a rare disorder whose diagnosis can be delayed due to poor awareness regarding its presenting insidious symptoms and biochemical hallmarks. To avoid misdiagnosis, we suggest that adult onset CblC deficiency is acknowledged as a separate entity from pediatric late onset cases, and that the disease is considered in the differential diagnosis in adult patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndromes and/or slow unexplained decline in renal function and/or idiopathic neuropathies, spinal cord degenerations, ataxias and/or recurrent thrombosis and/or visual field defects, maculopathy and optic disc atrophy. Plasma homocysteine measurement should be the first line for differential diagnosis when the disease is suspected. To further aid diagnosis, it is important that genes belonging to the intracellular cobalamin pathway are included within gene panels routinely tested for atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome and chronic kidney disorders.

BackgroundIn focal congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI), surgery is the gold standard of treatment, even for lesions localized in the head of the pancreas. We report the video of the pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy performed in a five-month-old child with focal CHI.Operative techniqueBaby was placed in the supine position with both arms outstretched to the up. After transverse supraumbilical incision and mobilization of ascending and transverse colon, exploration and multiple biopsies of the tail and the body of the pancreas ruled out multifocality. Pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy was performed according to the following steps: extended Kocher maneuver, followed by retrograde cholecystectomy and common bile duct isolation; division of the gastroduodenal artery and of the gastrocolic ligament; division of the duodenum, Treitz ligament and jejunum; transection of the pancreatic body. The reconstructive time was with: pancreato-jejunostomy; hepaticojejunostomy; pilorus-preserving antecolic duodeno-jejunostomy. The anastomoses were accomplished with synthetic absorbable monofilament sutures; two drains were placed close to the biliary and pancreatic anastomoses and to the intestinal anastomosis, respectively. Total operative time was 6 h, with no blood loss and/or intra-operative complications, immediate normalization of blood glucose levels and discharge from surgical ward 19 days after surgery.ConclusionsSurgical treatment of medical unresponsive focal forms of CHI is feasible in very small children: it is mandatory to refer the baby to a high-volume centre for a multidisciplinary management involving hepato-bilio-pancreatic surgeons and experts in metabolic disease.

Abstract Background Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a rare inherited metabolic disorder caused by defects in the phenylalanine-hydroxylase gene (PAH), the enzyme catalyzing the conversion of phenylalanine to tyrosine. PAH impairment causes phenylalanine accumulation in the blood and brain, with a broad spectrum of pathophysiological and neurological consequences for patients. Prevalence of disease varies, with peaks in some regions and countries, including Italy. A recent expert survey described the real-life of clinical practice for PKU in Italy, revealing inhomogeneities in disease management, particularly concerning approach to pharmacotherapy with sapropterin hydrochloride, analogous of the natural PAH co-factor, allowing disease control in a subset of patients. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to continue the work initiated with the expert survey paper, to provide national guidances aiming to harmonize and optimize patient care at a national level. Participants The Consensus Group, convened by 10 Steering Committee members, consisted of a multidisciplinary crowd of 46 experts in the management of PKU in Italy. Consensus process The Steering Committee met in a series of virtual meeting in order to discuss on clinical focuses to be developed and analyzed in guidance statements, on the basis of expert practice based evidence, large systematic literature review previously performed in the expert survey paper, and evidence based consensus published. Statements were re-discussed and refined during consensus conferences in the widest audience of experts, and finally submitted to the whole consensus group for a modified-Delphi voting. Results Seventy three statements, divided in two main clinical areas, PKU management and Pharmacotherapy, achieved large consensus in a multidisciplinary group of expert in different aspects of disease. Importantly, these statements involve guidances for the use of sapropterin dihydrochloride, still not sufficiently implemented in Italy, and a set of good practice to approach the use of novel enzyme replacement treatment pegvaliase. Conclusions This evidence-based consensus provides a minimum set of guidances for disease management to be implemented in all PKU centers. Moreover, these guidances represent the first statement for sapropterin dihydrochloride use, implementation and standardization in Italy, and a guide for approaching pegvaliase treatment at a national level on a consistent basis.

We describe the case of a 32-year-old man who developed a liver neoplasm due to previous Fontan surgery (FS) for a single ventricle anomaly and situs viscerum inversus. He was admitted to our hospital for suspected hepatocellular carcinoma during an Ultrasound (US) follow up. Computed tomography (CT) showed features of chronic liver disease and 7 cm hepatic nodule with arterial enhancement. Laboratory analyses documented preserved liver function and increased levels of alpha-fetoprotein. Trans-arterial-chemoembolization (TACE) was performed obtaining complete necrosis at 4 weeks of follow up and significant reduction of alpha-fetoprotein. The patient is currently in follow-up, being evaluated for further treatments and/or combined liver-heart transplantation. TACE is a therapeutic option for the treatment of patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and with severe heart disease, like those submitted to FS and with also other vascular abnormalities like those correlated to situs viscerum inversus.

Abstract Background Rare diseases are chronic and life-threatening disorders affecting

Sarcopenia is a clinical condition characterized by a reduction in muscle mass, which typically affects adult patients; however, it has recently been recognized in pediatric literature. Few studies in children with chronic liver disease (CLD) undergoing liver transplantation (LT) have investigated the role of sarcopenia, with controversial results. The aim of our study was to assess the prevalence and impact of sarcopenia among children with CLD who are candidates for LT. We conducted a retrospective, single-center study at Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital (Rome, Italy) from July 2016 to July 2021, evaluating all children (0–16 years old) with CLD listed for LT with an abdomen computed tomography imaging available before LT. The total psoas muscle surface area (t-PMSA) was defined as the sum of left and right psoas muscle surface area measured at L4–L5 on axial images. The t-PMSA z-score was calculated according to reference data, and sarcopenia was defined as a t-PMSA z-score of ≤−2 (1–16 years) or a psoas muscle index [PMI; PMI = t-PMSA/(100 × BSA)] of

BackgroundLipoprotein X (LpX) - mediated extremely severe hyperlipidemia is a possible feature detectable in children with syndromic paucity of intralobular bile ducts (Alagille syndrome) but rarely in other types of intra- and/or extrahepatic infantile cholestasis.Case presentationHere we report on a previously well 18-month child admitted for cholestatic jaundice and moderate hepatomegaly. Laboratory tests at entry showed conjugated hyperbilirubinemia, elevated values of serum aminotransferases, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and bile acids (100 folds upper normal values). Extremely severe and ever-increasing hypercholesterolemia (total cholesterol up to 1,730 mg/dl) prompted an extensive search for causes of high GGT and/or hyperlipidemic cholestasis, including an extensive genetic liver panel (negative) and a liver biopsy showing a picture of obstructive cholangitis, biliary fibrosis, and bile duct proliferation with normal MDR3 protein expression. Results of a lipid study showed elevated values of unesterified cholesterol, phospholipids, and borderline/low apolipoprotein B, and low high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol. Chromatographic analysis of plasma lipoproteins fractions isolated by analytical ultracentrifugation revealed the presence of the anomalous lipoprotein (LpX). Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography and percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography showed stenosis of the confluence of the bile ducts with dilation of the intrahepatic biliary tract and failure to visualize the extrahepatic biliary tract. Surgery revealed focal fibroinflammatory stenosis of the left and right bile ducts confluence, treated with resection and bilioenteric anastomosis, followed by the rapid disappearance of LpX, paralleling the normalization of serum lipids, bilirubin, and bile acids, with a progressive reduction of hepatobiliary enzymes.ConclusionWe have described a unique case of focal non-neoplastic extrahepatic biliary stenosis of uncertain etiology, presenting with unusual extremely high levels of LpX-mediated hypercholesterolemia, a condition which is frequently mistaken for LDL on routine clinical tests.

Teduglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2) analog employed in patients with short bowel syndrome (SBS) to reduce the need of parenteral nutrition in these patients, by virtue of its effects on enteric function. The experimental studies reported that the stimulating action of GLP-2 on epithelial turnover implies the potential development of dysplastic and neoplastic lesion. However, the clinical trials could not detect preneoplastic lesions on histologic material, and in a recent pilot study the occurrence of polyps was similar before and after treatment and included only low-grade dysplastic lesions. Another clue in GLP-2 function in stimulating mucosal restore is its enhancement through cooperation with epidermal growth factor (EGF). In this study, we analyzed gastroscopy and colonoscopy samplings from a child successfully weaned off parenteral nutrition with teduglutide. Villous and crypt structure was regular both in duodenal and in colonic samplings; in properly oriented villi, villus/crypt ratio was regular. The absorptive epithelium demonstrated a regular morphology. No atypia was detected in enterocytes, along epithelial structures. At the ultrastructural analysis, only a few enterocytes with vacuolized cytoplasm were observed. An S-phase marker Ki67 stained nuclei in the transitional amplifying zone, while nuclei stained by the cell cycle regulatory proteins p21 and p27 were placed in the differentiated epithelium of the duodenal villi and colonic crypts, as in the control cases. The counts of enterocytes immunostained with the same antisera, evaluated with image analysis software, were in the range of control cases. The ratio of the number of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signals/the number of centromere probe of chromosome 7 (CEP7) signals was less than 2. The findings available from this single patient are consistent with good preservation of functional capability of intestinal epithelium after treatment with GLP-2, given the histologic and ultrastructural features of enterocytes. In addition, the findings from cell cycle regulatory proteins immunolocalization and quantitative analysis show that cell renewal machinery in our case is comparable to control cases. The gene of the receptor EGFR is regularly expressed in enteric epithelium of our case. Morphologic and functional data from our patient improve evidence in favor of the safety of GLP-2 employ in SBS.

Background and AimsChronic intestinal failure (CIF) therapy changed significantly in recent decades, and both survival and complication rates improved over time. International guidelines claim that early referral of long-term home parenteral nutrition (HPN) patients to an expert center with specific standards of care may positively affect long-term outcomes. Herein, we retrospectively analyse the long-term outcomes of a cohort of pediatric patients with CIF followed-up since our Pediatric Intestinal Failure Unit foundation, in 1989.MethodsData of the 120 children followed up at Pediatric Intestinal Failure Unit during the last 28 years were retrospectively collected. Patients' and HPN characteristics, as well as dependence, survival, and complication rates, were described.ResultsIncidence and prevalence of CIF increased during the study period particularly due to the increase of HPN for non-digestive disease (NDD) CIF (47.5% of the study sample). Catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) rate decreased over the study period: 0.33 episodes/1,000 catheters days before 2011 and 0.19 episodes/1,000 catheters days afterwards. Only 1 patient out of 12 died because of HPN complications. The survival rate of patients with PDD was 98.4% at 1 year from the beginning of HPN, 96.5% at 2 years, and 93.8% from the fifth year onwards. Concerning the dependence rate, 70.6% of patients were still on HPN 1 year after the start of HPN, 63.7% at 2 years, 52.4% at 5 years, and 40.8% from the 9th year onwards, with no significant difference according to the underlying intestinal pathology. The survival rate of NDD patients was 91.2% at 1 year from the beginning of HPN, 87.4% at 2 years, and 81.9% from the third year onwards. For what concerns the enteral autonomy, it was regained by 56.7% 1 year after the start of HPN, 74.5% at 2 years, and 95.0% in the 5th year.ConclusionsOur data confirmed the importance of appropriate standards of care and suggest that applying a specific set of standards and protocols may further improve patients' outcomes and survival. Indeed, both primary and non-digestive diseases HPN showed good outcomes.

Background: Advances in the medical-surgical field have significantly increased the life expectancy of patients undergoing solid organ transplantation but this exposes patients to long-term complications due to chronic therapies and changes in lifestyle. It is known that children affected by pathology tend to be more sedentary and inactivity represents a further risk factor for the onset of non-communicable diseases. The aim of the present study was to compare the lifestyle of two groups of young patients: one group of healthy subjects (HG) and one group of kidney or liver transplant recipients (TG). Methods: Patients were asked to complete Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C). Results: A total of 104 subjects were recruited (50.9% male, mean age 12.8 ± 3.16 years old). No significant differences were observed in the final score between groups when comparing subjects based on health condition (Healthy 2.69 ± 0.65 vs. Transplant Group 2.42 ± 0.88), the intensity of sports activities (Competitive 2.82 ± 0.59 vs. Not Competitive 2.53 ± 0.7) or type of transplant (Liver 2.51 ± 0.91 vs. Kidney 2.16 ± 0.75). Conclusion: The results of this study showed a worrying reality: children are engaged in low levels of physical activity regardless of their health status and in general the level of activity does not reach the recommended values even in the absence of contraindications. So, it is necessary to encourage healthy children to practice more PA and to introduce PA prescriptions for transplanted children to prevent their health from deteriorating due to sedentariness.

We describe the case of a 41‐year‐old woman who developed a liver neoplasm due to previous Fontan surgery for a single ventricle anomaly and pacemaker implantation. She was admitted to our hospital for moderate ascites and she was affected by hepatocellular carcinoma treated by trans-arterial chemoembolization (TACE). Computed tomography showed features of chronic liver disease and 4 cm hepatic nodules with arterial enhancement. Laboratory analyses documented preserved liver function and increased levels of alpha-fetoprotein. TACE was performed obtaining complete necrosis at 4 weeks of follow up and significant reduction of alpha-fetoprotein after 2 months. The patient is currently in follow-up, being evaluated for further treatments and/or combined liver/heart transplantation. TACE is a therapeutic option for the treatment of patients with unresectable HCC and with severe heart disease, like those submitted to FS.

Abstract Background How to address the counseling of lifetime risk of developing Parkinson’s disease in patients with Gaucher disease and their family members carrying a single variant of the GBA1 gene is not yet clearly defined. In addition, there is no set way of managing Gaucher disease patients, taking into account the possibility that they may show features of Parkinson’s disease. Methods Starting from an overview on what has recently changed in our knowledge on this issue and grouping the experiences of healthcare providers of Gaucher disease patients, we outline a path of counseling and management of Parkinson’s disease risk in Gaucher disease patients and their relatives. Conclusion The approach proposed here will help healthcare providers to communicate Parkinson’s disease risk to their patients and will reduce the possibility of patients receiving inaccurate information from inadequate sources. Furthermore, this resource will help to empower healthcare providers to identify early signs and/or symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and decide when to refer these patients to the neurologist for appropriate specific therapy and follow-up.

Colonization by multidrug-resistant (MDR) organisms in liver transplant (LT) candidates significantly affects the LT outcome. To date, consensus about patient management is lacking, including microbiological screening indications. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the impact of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CR-KP) colonization in LT paediatric candidates to enable optimal prevention and therapeutic strategies that exploit both clinical and microbiological approaches. Seven paediatric patients colonized by CR-KP were evaluated before and until one-year post LT. At the time of the transplant, patients were stratified based on antibiotic (ATB) prophylaxis into two groups: ‘standard ATB’ (standard ATB prophylaxis), and ‘targeted ATB’ (MDR antibiogram-based ATB prophylaxis). Twenty-eight faecal samples were collected during follow-up and used for MDR screening and gut microbiota 16S rRNA-based profiling. Post-transplant hospitalization duration was comparable for both groups. With the exception of one patient, no serious infections and/or complications, nor deaths were recorded. A progressive MDR decontamination was registered. In the ‘standard ATB’ group, overall bacterial richness increased. Moreover, 6 months after LT, Lactobacillus and Bulleidia were increased and Enterobacteriaceae and Klebsiella spp. were reduced. In the ‘targeted ATB’ group Klebsiella spp., Ruminococcus gnavus, Erysipelotrichaceae, and Bifidobacterium spp. were increased 12 months after LT. In conclusion, both antibiotics prophylaxis do not affect nor LT outcomes or the risk of intestinal bacterial translocation. However, in the ‘standard ATB’ group, gut microbiota richness after LT was increased, with an increase of beneficial lactic acid- and short-chain fatty acids (SCFA)-producing bacteria and the reduction of harmful Enterobacteriaceae and Klebsiella spp. It could therefore be appropriate to administer standard prophylaxis, reserving the use of ATB-based molecules only in case of complications.

Hepatic hydrothorax (HH) represents a rare complication of portal hypertension among adult cirrhotic patients. Here, we describe a pediatric case of HH, observed in a biliary atresia infant. The child presented with recurrent right-sided pleural effusion, after a successful Kasai portoenterostomy with restoration of bile flow and without overt signs of hepatic failure. Recurrence of HH led the patient to liver transplant despite a low pediatric end-stage liver disease value. Although rare, HH can also occur in children and should be suspected in patients with portal hypertension and respiratory distress. HH may be an indication for liver transplantation.

Innovative targeted treatments for neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) can dramatically improve the course of illness. Diagnostic delay, however, is a major impediment. Here, we present a pilot project aimed at assessing the feasibility of a screening program to identify children at high risk for NMDs within the first 30 months of life. The Promoting Early Diagnosis for Neuromuscular Disorders (PEDINE) project implemented a three-step sequential screening in an area of about 300,000 people with (1) an assessment of the motor development milestones to identify “red flags” for NMDs by primary care pediatricians (PCPs) as part of the routine Health Status Check visits; (2) for the children who screened positive, a community neuropsychiatric assessment, with further referral of suspected NMD cases to (3) a hospital-based specialized tertiary care center. In the first-year feasibility study, a total of 10,032 PCP visits were conducted, and twenty children (0.2% of the total Health Status Check visits) screened positive and were referred to the community neuropsychiatrist. Of these, four had elevated creatine kinase (CK) serum levels. This pilot study shows that screening for NMDs in primary care settings is feasible and allows children at high risk for muscular disorder to be promptly identified.

The church of St Ignatius of Loyola in Rome, together with the Church of the Gesù, represents the most significant artistic contribution of the Jesuits in the Eternal City. Incorporated in the broader context of the Roman College, and built between 1626 and 1650 following a project by Padre (Father) Orazio Grassi S.J., it is the only one of the great Roman churches without a dome. The projects for the helioscopic dome by Orazio Grassi, the Cortonesque dome by Armando Brasini and the perspective dome by Andrea Pozzo represent the difficult attempt to create a perfectly rational layout for Rome, an ideal scientific and theological city. These projects tell the story of three different ways of conceiving architectural space affecting the city: political manifesto, imaginative introspection and colossal scenography. This paper describes the history of an “impossible” dome, analysing the historical evolution of the project and its three potential authors, three magnificent and idealist designers.

Abnormalities in the plasma amino acid and/or urinary organic acid profile have been reported in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). An imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory neuronal activity has been proposed as a mechanism to explain dysfunctional brain networks in ASD, as also suggested by the increased risk of epilepsy in this disorder. This study explored the possible association between presence of EEG paroxysmal abnormalities and the metabolic profile of plasma amino acids and urinary organic acids in children with ASD. In a sample of 55 children with ASD (81.8% male, mean age 53.67 months), EEGs were recorded, and 24 plasma amino acids and 56 urinary organic acids analyzed. EEG epileptiform discharges were found in 36 (65%) children. A LASSO regression, adjusted by age and sex, was applied to evaluate the association of plasma amino acids and urinary organic acids profiles with the presence of EEG epileptiform discharges. Plasma levels of threonine (THR) (coefficient = −0.02, p = 0.04) and urinary concentration of 3-Hydroxy-3-Methylglutaric acid (HMGA) (coefficient = 0.04, p = 0.02) were found to be associated with the presence of epileptiform discharges. These results suggest that altered redox mechanisms might be linked to epileptiform brain activity in ASD.

BackgroundThe surgical separation of two Conjoined Twins is a particularly complex operation. Surgical times are particularly long and post-operative complications are very frequent in this type of procedure. We report a clinical case of surgical separation of two thoraco-omphalopagus conjoined twins in which, thanks to the use of (3D) three dimensional technologies, we were able to significantly reduce operative times and improve clinical outcomes.MethodsWe performed a 3D reconstruction of the anatomical parts involved in congenital fusion using Computer Tomography (CT) images.We obtained virtual anatomical models of the patients which allowed us to estimate essential details as the residual post-operative thoracic volume as well as the exact position of resection planes for both the general separation and for the hepatic splitting procedure. Subsequently, we printed 3D anatomical models of the thoracic cage and sternum and of the liver with the plane of resection. Finally, we printed an additional 3D anatomical model of the two patients representing different organs with multiple colors and materials.ResultsThe use of 3D printing reduced the duration of surgery by 30% with a favorable patient outcome. Two years after the operation, the patients do not present any type of deficit and have a normal life without any significant complication.ConclusionVirtual anatomical 3D models and 3D printing represent a valid technological tool to support complex surgical operations, especially in pre-surgical planning. 3D models are important tools to better understand complex anatomy and to discuss clinical cases among members of the surgical team.

Abstract Newborn screening (NBS) methods and therapeutic options have become increasingly available for mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS), and there is a clear evidence that early intervention significantly improves the outcome. It is recommended that mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I) is included in the US newborn screening panel, and this is currently underway in some NBS programs in the world. The key factors in recommending MPS I for inclusion in NBS are the strongly improved efficacy of early-onset therapy and the improved performance of screening tests. Two studies on MPS I screening have been conducted in Italy. In the Tuscany-Umbria pilot NBS, eight infants were confirmed positive, and alpha-l-iduronidase (IDUA) gene molecular analysis showed that seven had either homozygosity or compound heterozygosity for pseudodeficiency alleles. p.Ala79Thr and p.His82Gln changes were demonstrated in four and three infants, respectively, six of which were of African origin. Only one infant had transitory elevation of urine glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) (by quantitative analysis) and she is in follow-up at the time of writing. In the North East Italy experience, there was one affected newborn for 66,491 screened. In this patient treatment started at 1 month of age. In the North East Italy experience the incidence of pseudodeficiency was very high (1:6044), with a high incidence of pseudodeficiency from patients of African origin. A significant problem that is encountered in the follow-up of infants with abnormal NBS and variants of unknown significance (VUS) on molecular analysis results relates to those who cannot be positively identified as either affected or unaffected. Long-term follow-up of these infants, and of those detected with late-onset disorders, will be essential to document the true risks and benefits of NBS. The availability of treatments in MPS II, IVA, VI, and VII with a better clinical outcome when started early in life, and the availability of a combined multiple assay for MPS, may be a prerequisite for new pilot NBS studies in the near future.

Abstract Background Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) has deeply modified the clinical history of Infantile Onset Pompe Disease (IOPD). However, its long-term effectiveness is still not completely defined. Available data shows a close relationship between clinical outcome and patients’ cross-reactive immunological status (CRIM), being CRIM-negative status a negative prognostic factor. At the same time limited data are available on the long-term treatment in CRIM-positive infants. Methods A retrospective multicentre observational study was designed to analyse the long-term effectiveness of ERT in IOPD. Thirteen Italian centres spread throughout the country were involved and a cohort of 28 patients (15 females, 13 males, born in the period: February 2002–January 2013) was enrolled. IOPD diagnosis was based on clinical symptoms, enzymatic and molecular analysis. All patients received ERT within the first year of life. Clinical, laboratory, and functional data (motor, cardiac and respiratory) were collected and followed for a median period of 71 months (5 years 11 months). Results Median age at onset, diagnosis and start of ERT were 2, 3 and 4 months, respectively. CRIM status was available for 24/28 patients: 17/24 (71%) were CRIM-positive. Nineteen patients (67%) survived > 2 years: 4 were CRIM-negative, 14 CRIM-positive and one unknown. Six patients (5 CRIM-positive and one unknown) never needed ventilation support (21,4%) and seven (6 CRIM-positive and one unknown: 25%) developed independent ambulation although one subsequently lost this function. Brain imaging study was performed in 6 patients and showed peri-ventricular white matter abnormalities in all of them. Clinical follow-up confirmed the better prognosis for CRIM-positive patients, though a slow, progressive worsening of motor and/or respiratory functions was detected in 8 patients. Conclusions These data are the result of the longest independent retrospective study on ERT in IOPD reported so far outside clinical trials. The data obtained confirmed the better outcome of the CRIM-positive patients but at the same time, showed the inability of the current therapeutic approach to reverse or stabilize the disease progression. The results also evidenced the involvement of central nervous system in Pompe disease. To better understand the disease clinical history and to improve treatment efficacy larger multicentre studies are needed as well as the development of new therapeutic approaches.

An increasing number of AB0-incompatible (AB0i) liver transplantations (LT) are being undertaken internationally in recent years due to organ shortages and the need for urgent transplantation. The aim of our study was establish the value of ABOi LT from available retrospective results of AB0i pediatric liver transplantations performed in European reference centers now belonging to the TransplantChild, European Reference Network (ERN). Data from medical records were analyzed, including demographic data, diagnosis, urgency of transplantation, time on the waiting list, PELD/MELD score, desensitization procedures, immunosuppression, selected post-transplant complications, and patient and graft survival. A total of 142 patients (pts) with transplants between 1986 and 2018 in 8 European transplant centers were included in the study. The indications for liver transplantation were: cholestatic diseases in 62 pts, acute liver failure in 42 pts, and other conditions in the remaining 38 pts. Sixty-six patients received grafts from living donors, and seventy-six received grafts from deceased donors. Both patient and graft survival were significantly affected by deceased donor type, urgent transplantation, and the development of vascular complications. In the multivariate analysis, vascular complications had a negative impact on patient and graft survival, while a longer time from the first AB0i LT in the study showed better results, suggesting an international learning experience. In conclusion, we believe that AB0i LT in children is now a safe procedure that may be adopted more readily in children.

Abstract Background Pediatric acute-liver-failure due to acetaminophen (APAP) administration at therapeutic dosage is rare, while viral infections and metabolic defects are the prevalent causes. Yet, as acetaminophen is routinely used in febrile illnesses, it may be mistakenly held responsible for the acute liver damage. Case presentation An 11 month old boy had been on acetaminophen for 10 days (total dose 720 mg = 72 mg/kg) when he developed acute-liver-failure with encephalopathy. As he rapidly improved on N-acetylcysteine (NAC) infusion, it was concluded that chronic acetaminophen administration in an infant had lead to acute-liver-failure even at therapeutic doses, that N-acetylcysteine infusion had been life-saving and should be immediately started in similar circumstances. The child, however, had two further episodes of acute liver damage over a 34-month period, without having been given acetaminophen, as the parents carefully avoided using it. His clinical, laboratory and radiological findings between the acute episodes were unremarkable. His features and skeletal surveys were not suggestive of a syndromic condition. He then went on to suffer another episode of acute-liver-failure with multi-organ failure, necessitating an urgent liver transplant. All efforts to come to a diagnosis for the causes of his recurrent episodes of liver failure had been unsuccessful, until a biallelic mutation in the NBAS gene was reported to be associated with recurrent acute-liver-failure in children. The boy’s DNA analysis revealed compound heterozygous pathogenic mutations in the NBAS gene. Liver failure episodes in these patients are triggered and worsened by fever, most likely due to thermal susceptibility of hepatocytes, hence APAP, rather than being a culprit, is part of the supportive treatment. Conclusions We suggest that, in acute-liver-failure with a history of acetaminophen exposure at therapeutic dosage, clinicians should not be contented with administering NAC, but should consider an alternative etiology, above all if the episodes are recurrent, and actively start supportive and antipyretic treatment while seeking the advice of a specialist unit.

На сегодняшний день предложены 2 системы количественной оценки бремени гликогеноза с дефицитом α-галактозидазы: индекс оценки степени тяжести Майнца (MSSI) и система балльной оценки тяжести болезни Фабри (DS3). Сделана попытка разработать динамическую математическую модель FASTEX (от англ. FAbry STabilization indEX, индекс стабилизации Фабри) для оценки клинической стабильности состояния. Мультидисциплинарная группа экспертов по болезни Фабри впервые предложила новую шкалу оценки тяжести заболевания по предварительной оценке (от англ. raw score, RS), основанную на 3 доменах (домен нервной системы (боль, цереброваскулярные события), почечный домен (протеинурия, скорость клубочковой фильтрации), сердечный домен (параметры эхокардиографии, электрокардиографии и степень сердечной недостаточности по классификации Нью-Йоркской кардиологической ассоциации)) с небольшим числом пунктов в каждом из них и оценкой клинической стабильности во времени. RS протестирована на 28 пациентах (15 мужчин и 13 женщин) с классической формой болезни Фабри. Получена сильная корреляционная связь предложенной оценки RS и взвешенной оценки (от англ. weighted score, WS) с DS3 и MSSI (r2 = 0,914; 0,949; 0,910 и 0,938 соответственно). Для уточнения RS была рассчитана WS, выражаемая в процентах. WS была основана на относительной клинической значимости каждого пункта в пределах домена, при этом группа экспертов согласовывала присвоение разного веса клинического вреда конкретной системе органов. Для определения динамики тяжести заболевания RS была повторно определена через 1 год. Группа экспертов согласилась с пороговым ограничением в 20 % от исходного уровня в качестве клинической WS для определения клинической стабильности. Модель FASTEX показала хорошую корреляцию с клинической оценкой и клиническим изменением на протяжении времени у всех пациентов.

Abstract Background Argininosuccinate synthase (ASS)1 is a urea cycle enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of citrulline and aspartate to argininosuccinate. Mutations in the ASS1 gene cause citrullinemia type I, a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by neonatal hyperammonemia, elevated citrulline levels, and early neonatal death. Treatment for this disease is currently restricted to liver transplantation; however, due to limited organ availability, substitute therapies are required. Recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been reported to act as intercellular transporters carrying genetic information responsible for cell reprogramming. In previous studies, we isolated a population of stem cell-like cells known as human liver stem cells (HLSCs) from healthy liver tissue. Moreover, EVs derived from HLSCs were reported to exhibit regenerative effects on the liver parenchyma in models of acute liver injury. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether EVs derived from normal HLSCs restored ASS1 enzymatic activity and urea production in hepatocytes differentiated from HLSCs derived from a patient with type I citrullinemia. Methods HLSCs were isolated from the liver of a patient with type I citrullinemia (ASS1-HLSCs) and characterized by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS), immunofluorescence, and DNA sequencing analysis. Furthermore, their differentiation capabilities in vitro were also assessed. Hepatocytes differentiated from ASS1-HLSCs were evaluated by the production of urea and ASS enzymatic activity. EVs derived from normal HLSCs were purified by differential ultracentrifugation followed by floating density gradient. The EV content was analyzed to identify the presence of ASS1 protein, mRNA, and ASS1 gene. In order to obtain ASS1-depleted EVs, a knockdown of the ASS1 gene in HLSCs was performed followed by EV isolation from these cells. Results Treating ASS1-HLSCs with EVs from HLSCs restored both ASS1 activity and urea production mainly through the transfer of ASS1 enzyme and mRNA. In fact, EVs from ASS1-knockdown HLSCs contained low amounts of ASS1 mRNA and protein, and were unable to restore urea production in hepatocytes differentiated from ASS1-HLSCs. Conclusions Collectively, these results suggest that EVs derived from normal HLSCs may compensate the loss of ASS1 enzyme activity in hepatocytes differentiated from ASS1-HLSCs.

Background: Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with recombinant human α-galactosidase has been available for the treatment of Fabry disease since 2001 in Europe and 2003 in the USA. Treatment outcomes with ERT are dependent on baseline patient characteristics, and published data are derived from heterogeneous study populations. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive systematic literature review of all original articles on ERT in the treatment of Fabry disease published up until January 2017. This article presents the findings in adult male patients. Results: Clinical evidence for the efficacy of ERT in adult male patients was available from 166 publications including 36 clinical trial publications. ERT significantly decreases globotriaosylceramide levels in plasma, urine, and in different kidney, heart, and skin cell types, slows the decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate, and reduces/stabilizes left ventricular mass and cardiac wall thickness. ERT also improves nervous system, gastrointestinal, pain, and quality of life outcomes. Conclusions: ERT is a disease-specific treatment for patients with Fabry disease that may provide clinical benefits on several outcomes and organ systems. Better outcomes may be observed when treatment is started at an early age prior to the development of organ damage such as chronic kidney disease or cardiac fibrosis. Consolidated evidence suggests a dose effect. Data described in male patients, together with female and paediatric data, informs clinical practice and therapeutic goals for individualized treatment. Keywords: Fabry disease, agalsidase alfa, agalsidase beta, systematic literature review, enzyme replacement therapy, adult male patients

Aim of this study was to investigate the activation of the IFNγ pathway in the affected liver and in the blood of patients with secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (sHLH). To this purpose, the mRNA expression levels of IFNG and IFNγ-inducible genes as well as Tyrosine (701)-phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) protein levels were evaluated in the liver and in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of three patients with sHLH with predominant liver involvement. The mRNA expression levels of IFNG and IFNγ-inducible genes were markedly higher in patient livers compared to control livers and to one disease control liver. Conversely, slight differences in the expression levels of Type I IFN-inducible genes and other classical inflammatory cytokine genes were found. Further supporting the activation of the IFNγ pathway, higher protein levels of phosphorylated and total STAT1 were detected in patient livers compared to control livers. When the expression of the same genes analysed in liver tissues was evaluated in PBMCs collected from 2 out of 3 patients before the liver biopsy, we found that mRNA levels of IFNγ-inducible genes were markedly increased. Accordingly, high circulating levels of IFNγ-inducible CXCL9 were observed in patients. Altogether, these data demonstrate the selective and marked up-regulation of the IFNγ pathway in the liver tissue and blood of patients with active sHLH. Finally, we show that measurement of circulating CXCL9 levels and evaluation of IFNγ-inducible gene expression levels in PBMCs may represent a new valid tool to better identify patients with suspected HLH with predominant liver involvement.

We reviewed the outcome of newborn screening for biotinidase deficiency performed at our department since 1987. Among 1,097,894 newborns screened, 461 were recalled, and 18 were identified as affected by complete or partial biotinidase deficiency (incidence 1:61,000, false positive rate 0.04%). The common missense mutation Q456H was found in 80% of patients with profound biotinidase deficiency. Of them, one patient harbored the novel mutation M399I in compound heterozygosity (M399I/Q456H). The complex allele A171T/D444H in cis was found in two patients with profound biotinidase deficiency (in homozygosity and in compound heterozygosity with the R211H mutation, respectively) and in one patient with partial biotinidase deficiency (in compound heterozygosity with the protective allele D444H in trans). All detected patients were treated and followed up at our Center until present. Biotin therapy (10–20 mg/day) allowed the full prevention of clinical symptoms in all patients with no adverse effects. These excellent outcomes confirm that newborn screening for biotinidase deficiency is a very effective secondary prevention program.

The original article contains an unintended omission of a statement of competing interests. As such, the authors would like to declare the following complete statement of competing interests:

Anderson-Fabry disease (FD) is a rare, progressive, multisystem storage disorder caused by the partial or total deficit of the lysosomal enzyme α-galactosidase A (α-Gal A). It is an X-linked, lysosomal enzymopathy due to mutations in the galactosidase alpha gene (GLA), encoding the α-Gal A. To date, more than 900 mutations in this gene have been described. In our laboratories, the study of genetic and enzymatic alterations related to FD was performed in about 17,000 subjects with a symptomatology referable to this disorder. The accumulation of globotriaosylsphingosine (LysoGb3) was determined in blood of positives. Exonic mutations in the GLA gene were detected in 471 patients (207 Probands and 264 relatives): 71.6% of mutations were associated with the classic phenotype, 19.8% were associated with the late-onset phenotype, and 8.6% of genetic variants were of unknown significance (GVUS). The accumulation of LysoGb3 was found in all male patients with a mutation responsible for classic or late-onset FD. LysoGb3 levels were consistent with the type of mutations and the symptomatology of patients. α-Gal A activity in these patients is absent or dramatically reduced. In recent years, confusion about the pathogenicity of some mutations led to an association between non-causative mutations and FD. Our study shows that the identification of FD patients is possible by associating clinical history, GLA gene analysis, α-Gal A assay, and blood accumulation of LysoGB3. In our experience, LysoGB3 can be considered a reliable marker, which is very useful to confirm the diagnosis of Fabry disease.

We studied generalization of a method for extending configurational studies to variables that are not exclusively geographical, in order to allow investigation of generic relationships in the built environment. We observed a number of limitations of the classical approach of configurational studies and we considered how a complex analytical method could be implemented in the study of non-topological variables, such as land use, noise pollution and financial or property rents. In order to do this, we established a system of relationships based on a labeled primary graph. Categorization of the labels of the links was performed on a generic variable, specifically, the predominant use of roads. The graph was then contracted using an optimization algorithm, which we describe. The algorithm allows the network to be reduced to a more streamlined system that can better analyze the relationships between the different categories. Application of the method showed that it is faster to identify weaknesses in urban networks, and then take measures to resolve them. The case study concerns the pedestrianization of the Colosseum area in Rome.

Fetal hepatocytes have a high regenerative capacity. The aim of the study was to assess treatment safety and clinical efficacy of human fetal liver cell transplantation through splenic artery infusion. Patients with endstage chronic liver disease on the waiting list for liver transplantation were enrolled. A retrospectively selected contemporary matched-pair group served as control. Nonsorted raw fetal liver cell preparations were isolated from therapeutically aborted fetuses. The end points of the study were safety and improvement of the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) and Child-Pugh scores. Nine patients received a total of 13 intrasplenic infusions and were compared with 16 patients on standard therapy. There were no side effects related to the infusion procedure. At the end of follow-up, the MELD score (mean ± SD) in the treatment group remained stable from baseline (16.0 ± 2.9) to the last observation (15.7 ± 3.8), while it increased in the control group from 15.3 ± 2.5 to 19 ± 5.7 ( p = 0.0437). The Child-Pugh score (mean ± SD) dropped from 10.1 ± 1.5 to 9.1 ± 1.4 in the treatment group and increased from 10.0 ± 1.2 to 11.1 ± 1.6 in the control group ( p = 0.0076). All treated patients with history of recurrent portosystemic encephalopathy (PSE) had no further episodes during 1-year follow-up. No improvement was observed in the control group patients with PSE at study inclusion. Treatment was considered a failure in six of the nine patients (three deaths not liver related, one liver transplant, two MELD score increases) compared with 14 of the 16 patients in the control group (six deaths, five of which were caused by liver failure, four liver transplants, and four MELD score increases). Intrasplenic fetal liver cell infusion is a safe and well-tolerated procedure in patients with end-stage chronic liver disease. A positive effect on clinical scores and on encephalopathy emerged from this preliminary study.

This study was designed to assess liver-specific functions of human fetal liver cells proposed as a potential source for hepatocyte transplantation. Fetal liver cells were isolated from livers of different gestational ages (16-22 weeks), and the functions of cell preparations were evaluated by establishing primary cultures. We observed that 20- to 22-week-gestation fetal liver cell cultures contained a predominance of cells with hepatocytic traits that did not divide in vitro but were functionally competent. Fetal hepatocytes performed liver-specific functions at levels comparable to those of their adult counterpart. Moreover, exposure to dexamethasone in combination with oncostatin M promptly induced further maturation of the cells through the acquisition of additional functions (i.e., ability to store glycogen and uptake of indocyanine green). In some cases, particularly in cultures obtained from fetuses of earlier gestational ages (16-18 weeks gestation), cells with mature hepatocytic traits proved to be sporadic, and the primary cultures were mainly populated by clusters of proliferating cells. Consequently, the values of liver-specific functions detected in these cultures were low. We observed that a low cell density culture system rapidly prompted loss of the mature hepatocytic phenotype with downregulations of all the liver-specific functions. We found that human fetal liver cells can be cryopreserved without significant loss of viability and function and evaluated up to 1 year in storage in liquid nitrogen. They might, therefore, be suitable for cell banking and allow for the transplantation of large numbers of cells, thus improving clinical outcomes. Overall, our results indicate that fetal hepatocytes could be used as a cell source for hepatocyte transplantation. Fetal liver cells have been used so far to treat end-stage liver disease. Additional studies are needed to include these cells in cell-based therapies aimed to treat liver failure and inborn errors of metabolism.

Background: Intestinal failure (IF) is the reduction in functioning gut mass below the minimal level necessary for adequate digestion and absorption of nutrients and fluids for weight maintenance in adults or for growth in children. There is a paucity of epidemiologic data on pediatric IF. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence, incidence, regional distribution and underlying diagnosis of pediatric chronic IF (CIF) requiring home parenteral nutrition (HPN) in Italy. Methods: Local investigators were selected in 19 Italian centers either of reference for pediatric HPN or having pediatric gastroenterologists or surgeons on staff and already collaborating with the Italian Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition with regard to IF. Data requested in this survey for children at home on Parenteral Nutrition (PN) on 1 December 2016 included patient initials, year of birth, gender, family’s place of residence and underlying diagnosis determining IF. Results: We recorded 145 CIF patients on HPN aged ≤19 years. The overall prevalence was 14.12/million inhabitants (95% CI: 9.20–18.93); the overall incidence was 1.41/million inhabitant years (95% CI: 0.53–2.20). Conclusion: Our survey provides new epidemiological data on pediatric CIF in Italy; these data may be quantitatively useful in developing IF care strategy plans in all developed countries.

We report that cells from human fetal dermis, termed here multipotent fetal dermal cells, can be isolated with high efficiency by using a nonenzymatic, cell outgrowth method. The resulting cell population was consistent with the definition of mesenchymal stromal cells by the International Society for Cellular Therapy. As multipotent fetal dermal cells proliferate extensively, with no loss of multilineage differentiation potential up to passage 25, they may be an ideal source for cell therapy to repair damaged tissues and organs. Multipotent fetal dermal cells were not recognized as targets by T lymphocytes in vitro, thus supporting their feasibility for allogenic transplantation. Moreover, the expansion protocol did not affect the normal phenotype and karyotype of cells. When compared with adult dermal cells, fetal cells displayed several advantages, including a greater cellular yield after isolation, the ability to proliferate longer, and the retention of differentiation potential. Interestingly, multipotent fetal dermal cells expressed the pluripotency marker SSEA4 (90.56 ± 3.15% fetal vs. 10.5 ± 8.5% adult) and coexpressed mesenchymal and epithelial markers (>80% CD90 + /CK18 + cells), coexpression lacking in the adult counterparts isolated under the same conditions. Multipotent fetal dermal cells were able to form capillary structures, as well as differentiate into a simple epithelium in vitro, indicating skin regeneration capabilities.

BACKGROUND: Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a rare inborn error of metabolism often complicated by a progressive bone impairment of uncertain etiology, as documented by both ionizing and non- ionizing techniques. METHODOLOGY: Peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) cultures were performed to study osteoclastogenesis, in the presence or absence of recombinant human monocyte-colony stimulating factor (M-CSF) and receptor activator of NFκB ligand (RANKL). Flow cytometry was utilized to analyze osteoclast precursors (OCPs) and T cell phenotype. Tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α), RANKL and osteoprotegerin (OPG) were quantified in cell culture supernatants by ELISA. The effects of RANKFc and anti-TNF-α antibodies were also investigated to determine their ability to inhibit osteoclastogenesis. In addition, bone conditions and phenylalanine levels in PKU patients were clinically evaluated. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Several in vitro studies in PKU patients' cells identified a potential mechanism of bone formation inhibition commonly associated with this disorder. First, PKU patients disclosed an increased osteoclastogenesis compared to healthy controls, both in unstimulated and M-CSF/RANKL stimulated PBMC cultures. OCPs and the measured RANKL/OPG ratio were higher in PKU patients compared to healthy controls. The addition of specific antagonist RANKFc caused osteoclastogenesis inhibition, whereas anti-TNF-α failed to have this effect. Among PBMCs isolated from PKU patients, activated T cells, expressing CD69, CD25 and RANKL were identified. Confirmatory in vivo studies support this proposed model. These in vivo studies included the analysis of osteoclastogenesis in PKU patients, which demonstrated an inverse relation to bone condition assessed by phalangeal Quantitative Ultrasound (QUS). This was also directly related to non-compliance to therapeutic diet reflected by hyperphenylalaninemia. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that PKU spontaneous osteoclastogenesis depends on the circulating OCP increase and the activation of T cells. Osteoclastogenesis correlates with clinical parameters, suggesting its value as a diagnostic tool for an early assessment of an increased bone resorption in PKU patients.

Whole-body vibration (WBV) is a widely used training method to increase muscle strength and power. However, its working mechanisms are still poorly understood, and studies investigating the effects of WBV on muscle stiffness are scant. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the acute effects of WBV on stiffness and countermovement jump (CMJ). Twenty-four recreationally active males, on separate days and in random order, performed a static squat under two different conditions: with WBV (WBV) or without vibration (CC). Muscle stiffness was assessed through the Wartenberg pendulum test, and CMJ was recorded. RM-ANOVA was employed to test differences between conditions in the above-mentioned variables. In the CC condition, stiffness was significantly lower after the exposure to the static squat (p = 0.006), whereas no difference was observed after the exposure to WBV. WBV and CC did not affect CMJ. No significant correlation was observed between changes in CMJ and changes in stiffness. Our results show that WBV may mitigate the reduction in muscle stiffness observed after static squats. However, current results do not support the notion that WBV exposure may account for an increase in CMJ performance.