Side population cells derived from adult human liver generate hepatocyte-like cells in vitro.

We sought to determine whether hepatic side population (SP) cells derived from adult human liver possess the potential of a novel candidate hepatic stem cell. Human cadaveric donor liver was subjected to collagenase perfusion and hepatocytes were separated from nonparenchymal cells by differential centrifugation. SP cells were isolated from the nonparenchymal portion after Hoechst 33342 staining.

A review of achalasia in 33 children.

We reviewed our experience in the diagnosis and management of esophageal achalasia in 33 children over a 25-year period at a single center by a retrospective chart review of all patients diagnosed with achalasia between December 1, 1975 and January 30, 2001. There were 33 cases ranging from 5 months to 16 years of age at the time of presentation (17 boys and 16 girls). Although dysphagia and vomiting were the commonest presenting symptoms, weight loss, chest pain, coughing, and recurrent pneumonia also occurred in many patients.