• Childhood Kidney Diseases
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• v.16 no.1
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• pp.38-45
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• 2012

Purpose: The incidence of community-acquired urinary tract infection (UTI) due to extended-spectrum ${\beta}$-lactamase producing $Escherichia$ $coli$ (ESBL(+) $E.$ $coli$) has increased worldwide. ESBL causes resistance to various types of the newer ${\beta}$-lactam antibiotics, including the expanded spectrum cephalosporins and monobactams. We aimed to investigate the severity of UTI and associated genitourinary malformations in children with febrile UTI caused by ESBL(+) $E.$ $coli$. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 290 patients diagnosed as febrile UTI caused by $E.$ $coli$ between January 2008 and October 2010 at Korea University Medical center. We classified the patients into two groups with ESBL(+) and ESBL(-) $E.$ $coli$ group according to the sensitivity of urine culture. Fever duration, admission period, white blood cell (WBC) counts and C-reactive protein (CRP) in peripheral blood, the presence of hydronephrosis, cortical defects, vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and renal scar were compared between the two groups. Results: Patients with ESBL(+) $E.$ $coli$ were 32, and those with ESBL(-) $E.$ $coli$ were 258. If we excluded those tested with a sterile urine bag, patients with ESBL(+) $E.$ $coli$ were 22, and those with ESBL(-) $E.$ $coli$ were 212. Whether the results of sterile urine bag tests were included or not, there was no significant difference in all parameters between the two groups statistically. Conclusion: Our data shows that ESBL(+) $E.$ $coli$ may not be related to the severity of UTI and associated genitourinary malformations.

• Journal of Sericultural and Entomological Science
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• v.25 no.1
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• pp.1-20
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• 1983

It has been known that the insect molting hormone and its analogues exist also in plant kingdom and their concentration has been found to be about 0.1~2.0% of dry matter, which is equivalent to $10^3{\sim}10^5$ times of those in insects. This study was carried out; 1) to isolate the phytoecdysones from Korean Achyranthes radix and characterize their physico-chemical properties. 2) to investigate the biological activity of this phytoecdysone on Bombyx mori larvae. The resuls were summarized as follows; 1. The extraction method of phytoecdysones was optimized by three consecutive reflux for 1hr using 200g of dried and milled radix per 1l methanol. 2. The purification from the crude extract was made by a series of steps such as precipitation of gum-type polymer with n-Butyl acetate, adsorption on technical grade silica and chromatography with neutral alumina. The conditions of each step were optimized and the resulting crude crystal was about 500mg per kg dry radix. 3. The crude crystal from the cultivated Achyranthes(Achyranthes japonia) contained ecdysterone (20-hydroxyecdysone) and inokosterone in the proportion of one to one. In order to separate these, a series of processes such as acetylation, separation by alumina column chromatography deacetylation by alcoholysis, deionization and crystallization were introduced and optimized 125mg of ecdysterone and 18mg of inokosterone per kg dry radix were thus obtained. 4. The wild Achyranthes (Achyranthes obtusifolia) radix was found to contain the ecdysterone only. A 285mg of ecdysterone was crystallized per kg dry radix. 5. Isolated ecdysterone, inodosterone and acetylated compounds were characterized by IR., UV., NMR spectroscopy, mp, TLC and densitometry. 6. Ligation experiment was undertaken to confirm the biological activity of the purified ecdysterone; the ecdysterone could induce larval-pupal metamorphosis in the ligated abdomen of 4th instar larvae injecting 0.5~1.0${\mu}g$. 7. By ecdysterone feeding experiment using artificial diet, it was elucidated that the critical time of feeding would be the first half of each instar resulting in increased weight of silk layer. 8. The ecdysterone was fed to 5th instar silkworm at the level of 1, 2, 3, 5ppm of dry feed of artificial diet containing 5% mulberry leaves for 72hrs. At 2ppm of the concentration. body weight and silk layer weight were arrived at maximum. But at higher concentrations body weight and silk layer weight decreased than the control group. At 2ppm of the concentration, body weight was increased by 12.5%. 9. Feeding 2ppm of ecdysterone at the later half of 5th instar, the duration of larvae was shortened.

• Childhood Kidney Diseases
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• v.13 no.1
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• pp.49-55
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• 2009

Purpose : We aimed to compare the frequency of positive repeat urine cultures 48 hours after antimicrobial treatment between anatomically normal and abnormal urinary tract Infection (UTI) groups to determine the potential clinical usefulness of the tests. Methods : We reviewed medical records of 930 patients under age 14, who had been admitted for UTI at Gyeongsang National University Hospital from January 1, 1998 to August 1, 2008. The eligible patients were divided into two groups the anatomically normal UTI group and the anatomically abnormal UTI group. Statistical analyses were performed with variables consisting of the sex ratio, age distribution and the frequency of positive repeat urine cultures of each group. Results : The sex ratio of the anatomically normal UTI group was M:F=1.9:1, whereas that of the anatomically abnormal UTI group was M:F=3.5:1 (P=0.019). For age distribution, it was found that the mean age of the anatomically normal UTI group was $0.82{\pm}1.83$ years, whereas that of the anatomically abnormal UTI group was $1.18{\pm}2.57$ years (P=0.113). The frequency of positive repeat urine cultures in the anatomically normal UTI group was 3/279 (1.1%), whereas that of the anatomically abnormal UTI group was 1/90 (1.1%) (P=0.675). Conclusion : We conclude that performing a repeat urine culture is not justified in terms of clinical usefulness, and it is unreasonable to use the results as an index of therapeutic success. A follow-up urine culture is unnecessary in patients with both the anatomically normal and abnormal UTI group.

• Clinical and Experimental Pediatrics
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• v.49 no.6
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• pp.653-658
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• 2006

Purpose : Because voiding cystourethrography(VCUG) is an invasive method, we studied whether VCUG could be postponed through evaluation of alternative non-invasive tests including renal ultrasonography and $^{99m}Tc$-DMSA renal scan. Methods : We reviewed the medical records of 175 patients initially diagnosed with febrile urinary tract infection during the one year period of 1999, and compared 3-tests : renal ultrasongraphy, $^{99m}Tc$-DMSA renal scan, and VCUG. Results : Renal ultrasonography didn't contribute to the prognostication of pyelonephritis(photopenic areas) or vesicoureteral reflux(VUR). Presentation of photopenic areas in $^{99m}Tc$-DMSA renal scan was related to VUR. If both findings of renal ultrasonography and $^{99m}Tc$-DMSA renal scans were normal, this condition was closely related to normal results in VCUG. And if both examinations were abnormal, the condition was closely related to VUR. But this state could not always guarantee the normal result from VCUG because of low sensitivity in finding VUR. Conclusion : In cases in which acute phyelonephritis is demonstrated by $^{99m}Tc$-DMSA renal scan, VCUG is required. In addition to this, if the conditions of hydronephrosis, vesicoureteral dilatation, increases of renal volume, and changes of echogenesity are shown by renal ultrasonography, VCUG should be performed. If a patient has difficulty undergoing VCUG, temporary postponement of VCUG can be taken into consideration, but only in cases where both examinations of renal ultrasonography and $^{99m}Tc$-DMSA renal scan are normal. Nevertheless, close observation is be advised even in this case.

• Childhood Kidney Diseases
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• v.9 no.2
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• pp.213-221
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• 2005

Purpose : Urachal anomalies are rare but are known to develop several complications, especially infection. Moreover, uniform guidelines for management have not been presented because of the variable clinical characteristics of these anomalies. The purpose of this report is to review our experience with urachal anomalies and attempt to determine the optimal management. Methods : We retrospectively reviewed the records of fourteen children with a variety of urachal anomalies who had been treated from January 1996 to June 2005 at Dong Kang General Hospital. Results : The age distribution of the patients(mean age; 3.8 years) was six neonates, one infant, five preschool-age and two school-age children. The male to female ratio was 1:1. Six cases of urachal cyst, four cases of patent urachus, two cases of urachal sinus and two cases of urachal diverticulum were found. Three patients with patent urachus and one with urachal cyst had hydronephrosis. Other associated anomalies included an inguinal hernia in one patient with urachal sinus and a vesicoureteral reflux in one patient with urachal diver ticulum. As a first-line diagnostic tool, high-resolution ultrasound examination was performed in thirteen cases and computed tomography in one case. Surgical excision was performed in nine patients with urachal anomaly. Five cases out of six neonatal cases experienced spontaneous improvement during a three-month follow up period. Due to frequent infection of the umbilicus, surgical excision was performed on one neonate with urachal sinus. Conclusion : All patients with urachal anomalies should undergo investigation for associated anomalies. The neonate with urachal anomalies, especially patent urachus, do not require surgical excision unless the patient has multiple episodes of recurrent infection. (J Korean Soc Pediatr Nephrol 2005;9:213-221)

• Childhood Kidney Diseases
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• v.13 no.2
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• pp.176-188
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• 2009

Purpose : Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is the major form of dialysis in use for infants and children with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The aim of this study was to gain insight into the current status of children on PD in Korea. Methods : In May 2008, questionnaires were sent to the pediatric nephrologists via e-mail. Four centers replied and those data were reviewed. Results : A total of 103 patients were included in this study. Male to female ratio was 1.6:1. Mean age was $11.5{\pm}4.9$ years (0-19 years). Primary renal diseases diagnosed were as follows: primary glomerular disease (34%), chronic pyelonephritis-reflux nephropathy (14.6%), systemic disease (9.7%), renal hypoplasia/dysplasia (8.7%), heredofamilial disease (6.8%), vascular disease (3.9%), drug-induced nephropathy (1.0%), and unknown (12.6%). PD modalities were as follows: CAPD (42.7%), CCPD (27.2%), NIPD (11.7%), and Hybrid (18.4%). Weekly total Kt/V was $2.1{\pm}0.7$ (0.3-4.1). Results of peritoneal equilibrium test were as follows: low 36.8%, low average 31.6%, high average 19.7%, and high 11.8%. Z-score for weight was $-1.00{\pm}1.20$ (-4.54~+2.50). Z-score for height was $-1.55{\pm}1.65$ (-9.42~+1.87). Growth hormone was administered in 24.3% of patients. Anti-hypertensive drugs were administered in 64.0% of patients. Laboratory findings were as follows: hemoglobin $10.5{\pm}1.4$ g/dL, calcium $9.7{\pm}0.7$ mg/dL, phosphorus $5.4{\pm}1.4$ mg/dL, and parathyroid hormone $324.2{\pm}342.8$ pg/mL. Conclusion : Primary glomerular disease was the most common cause of ESRD. CAPD was the most prevalent PD modality. Low and low average peritoneal transport type were common. Growth disturbance were noted in many patients. Some patients had hypertension even with anti- hypertensive drugs. Calcium-phosphorus levels were maintained adequately, but many patients had secondary hyperparathyroidism.

• Clinical and Experimental Pediatrics
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• v.49 no.1
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• pp.64-70
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• 2006

Purpose : The natural courses of prenatally diagnosed hydronephrosis(HN) are diverse. Our purpose was to determine if the findings of renal ultrasonography(USG) in patients with prenatal HN at 1 month of age can predict the 1 year follow-up results and determine the guideline of follow-up study. Methods : Among 462 hydronephrotic patients registered between 1996 and 2004, 153 unilateral hydronephrotic renal units were enrolled in this study, bilateral HN, vesicoureteral reflux and other associated anomaly were excluded. These were classified into four groups respectively, according to anterior posterior pelvic diameter(APPD) or Society for Fetal Urology(SFU) grading by USG findings at 1 month after birth. Renal USG and $Tc^{99m}$-mercaptoacetyl triglycerine(MAG3) scan were done according to a set protocol. Results : Most cases improved or remained stationary. No one underwent an operation SFU grade 1,2 groups and only one case of SFU grade 3 group was operated. Thirty two cases(64 percent) were operated on among the 50 cases of SFU grade 4 group. 0/2(0 percent), 5/11(45.5 percent), 11/17(64.7 percent) and 16/20(80 percent) were operated on in each group with APPD <10, 10-19, 20-29, >30 mm, and the operation risk is higher as the APPD is increased. Conclusion : In group with SFU grade below 3 and APPD below 10 mm, we can delay the follow-up study beyond existing set protocol. Operations are recommended immediately if diuretic renogram show the obstructive pattern or decreased renal function in SFU grade 4 group with APPD over 10 mm.

• Clinical and Experimental Pediatrics
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• v.46 no.9
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• pp.854-857
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• 2003

Purpose : It is known that single umbilical artery is frequently associated with gastrointestinal or urogenital anomaly, however, routine renal sonography has been debated in healthy neonate with isolated single umbilical artery. This study is designed to determine the usefulness of routine renal sonography in apparently healthy infants with an isolated single umbilical artery. Methods : Thirty healthy neonates with a single umbilical artery without a major anomaly from January 1995 to July 2002 were enrolled. The authors investigated the clinical background of babies and their mothers after renal sonography after 72 hours of age. When the abnormalities were found at the first renal sonography, the severity of hydronephrosis and degree of obstruction and renal function were analyzed by follow up renal sonography, voiding cystourethrography(VCUG) and technetium-99m-dimercaptosuccinic acid(DMSA) scan or technetium-99m-mercaptoacetyl-triglycerine (MAG3) scan. Results : Among the 30 healthy patients with isolated single umbilical artery, five patients(16.7%) showed abnormalities on first renal sonography with one major(3.3%) and four(13.4%) minor renal anomaly(minimal or mild hydroneohrosis). One major renal anomaly(severe hydronephrosis) showed severe decreased renal function on MAG3 scan without reflux, and the other four minor regressed spontaneously on follow up study. Conclusion : The value of routine early renal sonograpy for detecting renal anomaly in healthy infants with an isolated single umbilical artery remained unclear because most of the anomalies would regress spontaneously in the follow up study.

• Clinical and Experimental Pediatrics
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• v.46 no.12
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• pp.1248-1252
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• 2003

Purpose : Chest pain in the pediatric population is not rare and mostly benign. Causes of chest pain are diverse, and differential diagnosis is not easy. Chest pain in children is less likely to be cardiac in origin. Furthermore, chest pain in the pediatric population is rarely associated with life-threatening disease. This study was designed to evaluate children with chest pain and the usefulness of several diagnostic examinations. Methods : Between March 2001 and August 2002, 33 patients(15 boys and 18 girls, aged four to 15 years) presented with chronic chest pain. The records of these patients were reviewed. Chest radiography and electrocardiogram were performed in all patients. Cardiologic and gastrointestinal evaluations were carried out when considered necessary. Results : Chest pain was most common in the age group of 10 to 12 years old, and the four to six years old group. The most common diagnostic findings of chest pain were idiopathic(15 cases, 45.5 %), heart disease(9 cases, 27.3%), upper gastrointestinal disease(6 cases, 18.2%), respiratory disease (2 cases, 6%) and trauma(1 case, 3%). In children with abnormal results of cardiologic evaluation, these findings are not major etiologic categories of chest pain. Through history taking and physical examinations, six cases were evaluated concerning gastrointestinal disease and all of them showed gastrointestinal diseases(esophagitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, nodular gastritis and chronic superficial gastritis). Conclusion : Chest pain is usually benign in children but the possibility of cardiovascular or gastrointestinal disease is considered. Careful history taking, physical examination and proper clinical examinations are usually required to find out the rare life-threatening causes of chest pain.

• Clinical and Experimental Pediatrics
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• v.46 no.3
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• pp.265-270
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• 2003

Purpose : To characterize the infants under 3 months of age with urinary tract infections(UTIs), and especially patients with bacteremia or meningitis Methods : Hospital records of all the infants under 3 months of age discharged from our hospital for 69 consecutive months with the diagnosis of initial episode of UTI were reviewed. UTI was defined when patients had fever with pyuria, and had urine culture results of ${\geq}10^5$ colony forming units/mL from a bag specimen. Patients with previously known urologic abnormality or immunodeficiency were excluded. Nosocomial infections were also excluded from the study. Results : The male:female ratio was 35 : 6. Of the urine cultures, 40(97.6%) yielded single pathogen, one yielded two pathogens. Escherichia coli was the predominant isolate from the urine. Five patients(12%) also had bacteremia. Pathogens isolated from the blood cultures were E. coli(4) and Enterococcus faecalis(1). No patient had culture-positive meningitis or cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis. Clinical or laboratory findings between patients with and without bacteremia were not different significantly. The rate of vesicoureteral reflux(VUR) was 44%. The sensitivity of ultrasound for detection of VUR was 38%; specificity was 50%. Conclusion : Clinical and laboratory data were not helpful for identifying patients with bacteremia at the time of presentation. Consequently, blood cultures need to be obtained from all febrile infants under 3 months of age with UTIs. A large-scale study including the indication of lumbar puncture for infants with a febrile UTI and study of evaluation and treatment of infants under 3 months of age with UTIs are required.