The prognosis of the disease largely depends on the time from diagnosis to thiamine supplementation. The aim of this pediatric literature review is to provide an update on neuroradiologic findings in children affected by WE in an effort to determine pertinent clinical and imaging findings that can improve the detection and early identification of the disease. A thorough knowledge of the MRI findings of WE will assist in arriving at an early diagnosis, thereby reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with this disease in children.”
“Objective: We have developed a prosthesis that includes a collagen layer for tracheobronchial reconstruction

and applied it in a canine model. In previous studies luminal epithelization remained partial or rather slow because of the early disintegration Cytoskeletal Signaling inhibitor selleck chemical of the collagen layer. We have improved this type of prosthesis by coating the luminal surface with a biodegradable polymer,

which serves to protect the collagen layer. The effect of the polymer coating on the epithelization of the luminal surface of the prosthesis was examined.

Methods: The main frame consisted of a polypropylene mesh tube, measuring 15 mm in inner diameter and 30 mm in length, with reinforcing rings. Collagen extracted from porcine skin was conjugated to this frame. The luminal surface was coated with a polymer, poly (L-lactic-acid-co-epsilon-caprolactone). In 5 beagle dogs the left main bronchus was replaced with this prosthesis, periodic bronchoscopic observations were conducted, and microscopic evaluations were performed.

Results: All dogs survived until they were killed, except for 1 animal

in which pneumonia developed, and this animal died at 13 months after replacement. None of the dogs showed adverse complications caused by the prosthesis. Bronchoscopic observations revealed that the polymer remained on the luminal surface for 2 weeks. The luminal surface in 4 dogs was completely covered with ciliated columnar epithelium or nonciliated squamous epithelium, and 90% epithelization was achieved in 1 dog.

Conclusions: The biodegradable polymer coating protected the collagen layer and promoted better epithelization. This improved epithelization on the luminal surface could therefore potentially increase the success rates in airway replacement with artificial prostheses. (J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2010; 139: 26-31)”
“Congenital ASK1 tumors of the central nervous system (CNS) are often arbitrarily divided into “”definitely congenital”" (present or producing symptoms at birth), “”probably congenital”" (present or producing symptoms within the first week of life), and “”possibly congenital”" (present or producing symptoms within the first 6 months of life). They represent less than 2% of all childhood brain tumors. The clinical features of newborns include an enlarged head circumference, associated hydrocephalus, and asymmetric skull growth. At birth, a large head or a tense fontanel is the presenting sign in up to 85% of patients.