bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The habitual meal and snacking patterns of university students in two countries and their use of vending machines
Authors: Spanos D. , Hankey C. R. 
Published: November 2009

AbstractBackground:  Dietary patterns and food choices in western and northern European countries can differ from those in countries that surround the Mediterranean basin. However, irregular meal patterns and the consumption of high‐energy snacks tend to become common in most countries and their association with the prevalence of obesity has been examined in many studies. The first aim of the present study was to describe the habitual meal and snack intakes, including the use of vending machines, for two groups of first‐year university students in two countries of different cultural backgrounds. The second aim was to explore the relationships between body mass index (BMI) and snacking for these two groups.Methods:  One hundred and sixty first‐year undergraduate university students from two defined universities in Greece (n = 80) and Scotland (n = 80) volunteered to complete a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The FFQ comprised 16 questions assessing their meal and snacking habits. Self‐assessed height and weight data were collected.Results:  The majority of the 160 students reported a BMI in the healthy range (<25 kg m−2). Overall, 26% of the students reported never consuming breakfast. More Scottish students (74%) used vending machines (P < 0.05). More Scottish students consumed chocolate bars and crisps than Greek students (41% and 34% versus 37.5% and 20%, respectively). Only the choice of chocolate bars from vending machines and the consumption of crisps and low fat yogurts were related to BMI (P < 0.05) for both groups.Conclusions:  University students living in different countries report similar dietary patterns but differ in their snacking habits. No relationships were found between BMI and snacking. There is a need to carry out research to further our understanding of this relationship.
RuO2 thin films deposited by spin coating on silicon substrates: pH‐dependence of the microstructure and catalytic properties
Authors: NOWAKOWSKI P. , KOPIA A. , VILLAIN S. , FREMY M.‐A. , KUSINSKI J. , GAVARRI J.‐R. 
Published: November 2009

SummaryRuO2 thin films have been deposited on Si substrates by spin coating with precursor solutions having a pH varying between 1.4 and 4. X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy analyses are used to determine correlations between the solution pH and the film microstructure. As the pH varies, the RuO2 crystal sizes reach a minimum value then increase; the porosity increases at the substrate/film interface with formation of large cavities. The catalytic activity of these RuO2 layers in the presence of flowing air–methane is analysed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy of the conversion of CH4 into CO2. The increasing porosity seems to improve the catalytic conversion rate of methane. Electrical impedance spectroscopy analyses show that the conductivity strongly depends on the thin‐film microstructure and porosity.
An investigation of nitride precipitates in archaeological iron artefacts from Poland
Authors: KĘDZIERSKI Z. , STĘPIŃSKI J. , ZIELIŃSKA‐LIPIEC A. 
Published: November 2009

SummaryThe paper describes the investigations of nitride precipitates in a spearhead and a sword found in the territory of Poland, in cremation graveyards of the Przeworsk Culture, dated to the Roman Period. Three different techniques of the examination of nitride precipitates were employed: optical microscope, scanning electron microscope (scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometer) and transmission electron microscope. Two types of precipitates have been observed, and their plate‐like shape was demonstrated. The large precipitate has been confirmed to be γ′‐Fe4N, whereas the small one has been identified as α″‐Fe16N2. The origin of nitride precipitates in archaeological iron artefacts from Poland is probably a result of the manufacturing process or cremation as part of burial rites. An examination of available iron artefacts indicates that nitride precipitates (have only limited effect on mechanical properties) influence the hardness of metal only to a very limited degree.
Treatment‐focused DNA testing for newly diagnosed breast cancer patients: some implications for clinical practice
Authors: Lobb EA , Barlow‐Stewart K , Suthers G , Hallowell N 
Published: November 2009

Lobb EA, Barlow‐Stewart K, Suthers G, Hallowell N. Treatment‐focused DNA testing for newly diagnosed breast cancer patients: some implications for clinical practiceThere is accumulating evidence that women with breast cancer due to a familial BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation benefit from specific surgical and chemotherapeutic treatment strategies. However, the rapid identification of such patients during the acute phase of treatment raises a number of issues. This study investigated Australian opinion leaders' views on the issues arising from such ‘treatment‐focused’ genetic testing. Semi‐structured interviews with 34 opinion leaders working in cancer genetics were undertaken. Interviewees acknowledged the introduction of treatment‐focused DNA testing has the potential to positively transform the management of breast cancer patients, but were concerned that certain ethical and logistical issues have yet to be addressed. These include decision‐making and consent, the familial nature of genetic information, and the management of genetics services within familial cancer clinics in the public hospital system in Australia. Service providers will need to have policies and strategies for managing the increased demand. It will also be necessary to include genetic counseling services within familial cancer clinics in the care pathway for newly diagnosed patients prior to any DNA testing to determine adjuvant treatment; such services may be more cost‐effective than expecting surgeons and medical oncologists to fulfill this role.
Endotracheal tube size and sore throat following surgery: a randomized‐controlled study
Authors: JAENSSON M. , OLOWSSON L. L. , NILSSON U. 
Published: November 2009

Background: Sore throat following endotracheal intubation is a common problem following surgery and one of the factors that affects the quality of recovery. This study was carried out with the primary aim of assessing whether the size of the endotracheal tube (ETT) affects the risk of sore throat in women following anaesthesia.Methods: One hundred healthy adult women undergoing elective surgery were randomly allocated to oral intubation with either ETT size 6.0 or 7.0. Anaesthesia was based on either inhalation or total intravenous anaesthesia according to standardized routines. Pre‐ and post‐operatively, sore throat and discomfort were assessed on a four‐graded scale and for hoarseness on a binary scale (yes or no). Post‐operatively, the assessments were performed after 1–2 and 24 h, and if there was discomfort at 24 h, a follow‐up call was made at 72 and 96 h.Results: After 1–2 h post‐operatively, there were a higher proportion of patients with sore throat in ETT 7.0 vs. ETT 6.0 (51.1% vs. 27.1%), P=0.006. This difference between the groups was also evident, P=0.002, when comparing changes between the pre‐ and the post‐operative values. The severity of discomfort from sore throat was also higher in ETT 7.0 (38.8%) compared with ETT 6.0 (18.8%), P=0.02. No differences were found in the incidence of hoarseness between the groups. The remaining symptoms lasted up to 96 h post‐operatively in 11%, irrespective of the tube size.Conclusion: Use of a smaller‐sized ETT can alleviate sore throat and discomfort in women at the post‐anaesthesia care unit.
Titrated propofol induction vs. continuous infusion in children undergoing magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: CHO J. E. , KIM W. O. , CHANG D. J. , CHOI E. M. , OH S. Y. , KIL H. K. 
Published: November 2009

Background: Propofol is the popular intravenous (i.v.) anaesthetic for paediatric sedation because of its rapid onset and recovery. We compared the efficacy and safety of a single dose and conventional infusion of propofol for sedation in children who underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).Methods: This was a double‐blind, randomized‐controlled study. One hundred and sixty children were assigned to group I (single dose) or II (infusion). Sedation was induced with i.v. propofol 2 mg/kg, and supplemental doses of propofol 0.5 mg/kg were administered until adequate sedation was achieved. After the induction of sedation, we treated patients with a continuous infusion of normal saline at a rate of 0.3 ml/kg/h in group I and the same volume of propofol in group II. In case of inadequate sedation, additional propofol 0.5 mg/kg was administered and the infusion rate was increased by 0.05 ml/kg/h. Induction time, sedation time, recovery time, additional sedation and adverse events were recorded.Results: Recovery time was significantly shorter in group I compared with group II [0 (0–3) vs. 1 (0–3), respectively, P<0.001]. Group I (single dose) had significantly more patients with recovery time 0 compared with group II (infusion) (65/80 vs. 36/80, respectively, P<0.001). Induction and sedation times were not significantly different between groups. There was no significant difference in the frequency of additional sedation and adverse events between groups.Conclusion: A single dose of propofol without a continuous infusion can provide appropriate sedation in children undergoing MRI for <30 min.
Generation and propagation of gastric slow waves
Authors: Van Helden Dirk F , Laver Derek R , Holdsworth John , Imtiaz Mohammad S 
Published: November 2009

Summary1. Mechanisms underlying the generation and propagation of gastrointestinal slow wave depolarizations have long been controversial. The present review aims to collate present knowledge on this subject with specific reference to slow waves in gastric smooth muscle.2. At present, there is strong agreement that interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) are the pacemaker cells that generate slow waves. What has been less clear is the relative role of primary types of ICC, including the network in the myenteric plexus (ICC‐MY) and the intramuscular network (ICC‐IM). It is concluded that both ICC‐MY and ICC‐IM are likely to serve a major role in slow wave generation and propagation.3. There has been long‐standing controversy as to how slow waves ‘propagate’ circumferentially and down the gastrointestinal tract. Two mechanisms have been proposed, one being action potential (AP)‐like conduction and the other phase wave‐based ‘propagation’ resulting from an interaction of coupled oscillators. Studies made on single bundle gastric strips indicate that both mechanisms apply with relative dominance depending on conditions; the phase wave mechanism is dominant under circumstances of rhythmically generating slow waves and the AP‐like propagation is dominant when the system is perturbed.4. The phase wave mechanism (termed Ca2+phase wave) uses cyclical Ca2+release as the oscillator, with coupling between oscillators mediated by several factors, including: (i) store‐induced depolarization; (ii) resultant electrical current flow/depolarization through the pacemaker cell network; and (iii) depolarization‐induced increase in excitability of downstream Ca2+stores. An analogy is provided by pendulums in an array coupled together by a network of springs. These, when randomly activated, entrain to swing at the same frequency but with a relative delay along the row giving the impression of a propagating wave.5. The AP‐like mechanism (termed voltage‐accelerated Ca2+wave) propagates sequentially like a conducting AP. However, it is different in that it depends on regenerative store Ca2+release and resultant depolarization rather than regenerative activation of voltage‐dependent channels in the cell membrane.6. The applicability of these mechanisms to describing propagation in large intact gastrointestinal tissues, where voltage‐dependent Ca2+entry is also likely to be functional, is discussed.
Baroreflex deficit blunts exercise training‐induced cardiovascular and autonomic adaptations in hypertensive rats
Authors: Moraes‐Silva IC , De La Fuente RN , Mostarda C , Rosa K , Flues K , Damaceno‐Rodrigues NR , Caldini EG , De Angelis K , Krieger EM , Irigoyen MC 
Published: November 2009

Summary1. Baroreceptors regulate moment‐to‐moment blood pressure (BP) variations, but their long‐term effect on the cardiovascular system remains unclear. Baroreceptor deficit accompanying hypertension contributes to increased BP variability (BPV) and sympathetic activity, whereas exercise training has been associated with an improvement in these baroreflex‐mediated changes. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the autonomic, haemodynamic and cardiac morphofunctional effects of long‐term sinoaortic baroreceptor denervation (SAD) in trained and sedentary spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR).2. Rats were subjected to SAD or sham surgery and were then further divided into sedentary and trained groups. Exercise training was performed on a treadmill (five times per week, 50–70% maximal running speed). All groups were studied after 10 weeks.3. Sinoaortic baroreceptor denervation in SHR had no effect on basal heart rate (HR) or BP, but did augment BPV, impairing the cardiac function associated with increased cardiac hypertrophy and collagen deposition. Exercise training reduced BP and HR, re‐established baroreflex sensitivity and improved both HR variability and BPV. However, SAD in trained SHR blunted all these improvements. Moreover, the systolic and diastolic hypertensive dysfunction, reduced left ventricular chamber diameter and increased cardiac collagen deposition seen in SHR were improved after the training protocol. These benefits were attenuated in trained SAD SHR.4. In conclusion, the present study has demonstrated that the arterial baroreflex mediates cardiac disturbances associated with hypertension and is crucial for the beneficial cardiovascular morphofunctional and autonomic adaptations induced by chronic exercise in hypertension.
Call for a national plan for rare diseases
Authors: Jaffe Adam , Zurynski Yvonne , Beville Lyndall , Elliott Elizabeth 
Published: November 2009

AbstractAustralia requires a national plan, similar to plans developed internationally, to address the impacts of rare diseases on individuals, the community and health services. Rare diseases often present in childhood, many are chronic, some life threatening and others associated with significant disability. However, diagnosis is often delayed, because of lack of knowledge and experience of health professionals and uncertainty about where to refer. Specialised health services are frequently lacking and specific therapies are often not available, partly because of lack of research funding directed towards rare diseases. A national plan would facilitate a coordinated response to service development, carer support, and health professional and community education, and would promote research and advocacy for affected children and their families.
Sleep, performance and behaviour in Australian indigenous and non‐indigenous children: An exploratory comparison
Authors: Blunden Sarah , Chervin Ronald D 
Published: November 2009

Aims:  Sleep problems in Australian children are common and consequential but have not been investigated in Australian Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander (indigenous) children. This study compares sleep in indigenous and non‐indigenous children and investigates potential effects on school performance and daytime behaviour.Methods:  Subjects included 25 indigenous and 25 non‐indigenous children (mean standard deviation (SD) age = 8.8 (1.4 years), range 7–11.11 years), in six Northern Territory primary schools. Parents completed the Sleep Disorders Scale for Children which produces a T‐score (mean = 50 (SD = 10)) for behavioural sleep disorders, sleep disordered breathing, parasomnias, excessive daytime sleepiness and night sweating. Behaviour and school grades were assessed with the parent‐reported Child Behaviour Checklist.Results:  Behavioural sleep problems of initiating and maintaining sleep, or parasomnias were commonly reported by both groups (24–40%), with indigenous children under 9 years reporting the most problems. No between‐group differences were found in school performance. Significant relationships between sleep quality and behaviours were found, particularly for indigenous children.Conclusions:  These data suggest that substantial numbers of Australian children – more than one third in this pilot sample – may suffer from significant sleep problems. To the extent that sleep problems may impair prefrontal cortical function, emotional regulation, and control of behaviour, confirmation of current findings could have particular import for indigenous children.
Surgical management of gastroschisis in North Queensland from 1988 to 2007
Authors: Kandasamy Yoga , Whitehall John , Gill Arpinder , Stalewski H 
Published: November 2009

Aim:  To review outcomes of gastroschises originating in North Queensland and repaired in the neonatal centre in Townsville from 1988–2007, and compare these outcomes with published data from other centres.Methods:  A retrospective chart review of outcomes after primary operative repair (POR) with wound closure in fascial layers in the theatre, primary non‐operative repair (PNOR) with apposition of the umbilical cord and adhesive dressing in the ward, secondary repair (SR) after a silo, and complex repair (CR) of cases with obstruction, perforation or atresiae. Epidemiological data of babies originating in North Queensland but managed in Brisbane were secured from Mater Mothers' Hospital and the Royal Hospital for Children.Results:  Fifty cases were treated in Townsville: 16 by PNOR, 22 by POR, 6 by SR and 6 by CR. Outcomes of uncomplicated cases treated by PNOR, POR and SR were similar. Outcomes of complicated cases after CR were significantly worse. No significant differences were found between PNOR in Townsvillle and published outcomes after SR from four overseas units. No differences were detected in outcomes of inborn and outborn babies, those delivered by vaginal or caesarean birth or between indigenous and non‐indigenous babies. Three (6%) died. Gastroschisis is increasing in North Queensland, particularly in younger mothers. The incidence is 2–3 times higher in indigenous mothers.Conclusion:  No significant differences were found between PNOR and other techniques for uncomplicated cases. PNOR avoids the use of theatre and staff, reducing delay and cost, and the need to transport a sick baby.
A home respiratory support programme for children by parents and layperson carers
Authors: Tibballs James , Henning Robert , Robertson Colin F , Massie John , Hochmann Mark , Carter Bradley , Osborne Anthony , Stephens Rosemary A , Scoble Maureen , Jones Sue‐Ellan , White Justine , Bryan Doug 
Published: November 2009

Aim:  To describe a respiratory support programme for children at home by parents and layperson carers.Methods:  Analysis of records of children with long‐term mechanical respiratory support at home.Results:  From 1979 to 2008 the programme managed 168 children (median age 7 years, range 3 weeks–19 years) with obstructive sleep apnoea (55, 32%), neuromuscular conditions (42, 25%), tracheo‐bronchomalacia (23, 14%), kyphoscoliosis‐cerebral palsy (20, 12%), acquired central hypoventilation (8, 5%), congenital central hypoventilation (7, 4%), chronic lung disease or pulmonary hypoplasia (8, 5%), traumatic quadriplegia (3, 2%) and tumour‐related quadriplegia (2, 1%). One hundred and sixty‐one (96%) were discharged: 73 (46%) remain in the programme; 27 (16%) transferred to adult services, 25 (15%) recovered and 36 (23%) died. Principal modes of therapy were mask continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) 35%, mask bilevel positive airway pressure 30%, tracheostomy CPAP 20%, tracheostomy mechanical ventilation 8%, phrenic nerve pacing 3%, negative pressure chamber ventilation 2% and nasal tube CPAP 2%. Two unexpected deaths occurred at home: one from accidental tracheostomy decannulation and another unrelated to respiratory support. Average time in the programme was 3.3 years. Parents of 69 children were provided with trained carers. Successful discharge resulted from early recognition of potential to discharge, parental training, recruitment and training of carers, purchase of equipment and secure funding. Seven children were not discharged, two of whom died in the hospital and five are subject to discharge planning.Conclusion:  Respiratory support of children at home by trained parents and layperson carers is safe and efficient. All modes of respiratory support may be used.
Blue Rubber Bleb Nevus Syndrome: Extensive small bowel vascular lesions responsible for gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Hasosah Mohammed Y , Abdul‐Wahab Ahmed A , Bin‐Yahab Solaiman A , Al‐Rabeaah Abdullah A , Rimawi Mahmoud M , Eyoni Yousif A , Satti Mohamed B 
Published: November 2009

AbstractBlue Rubber Bleb Nevus Syndrome is a rare condition characterised by multiorgan venous malformations, in particular of cutaneous area and the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. We report here a child with chronic iron deficiency anaemia, melena and skin lesions. She had severe hypochromic microcytic anaemia. Upper and lower endoscopy revealed hundreds of red‐bluish polypoid lesions involving the entire GI tract primarily of the small bowel. Due to localisation of the most severe lesions, the patient responded well to surgical treatment, allowing a sustained clinical remission.
Efficacy and safety of iodopovidone pleurodesis in malignant pleural effusions
Authors: NETO Jose D.A. , De OLIVEIRA Sandro F.Q. , VIANNA Sylvana P. , TERRA Ricardo M. 
Published: November 2009

ABSTRACTBackground and objective:  Pleurodesis is one of the best methods of controlling malignant pleural effusions (MPE), a distressing complication of metastatic disease. In recent studies of a wide range of pleural diseases, iodopovidone was used as a sclerosing agent for pleurodesis and demonstrated good results with low morbidity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of iodopovidone pleurodesis in MPE.Methods:  A retrospective analysis was performed on patients with MPE who underwent pleurodesis at our institution between 2005 and 2008. All patients underwent instillation of 20 mL of 10% iodopovidone, 80 mL of normal saline and 2 mg/kg of lidocaine through a chest tube, which was clamped for 2 h. The tube was removed when the daily output of fluid was <200 mL. Data on the requirement for additional pleural procedures, adverse events and survival were collected.Results:  Sixty‐one pleurodesis procedures were performed in 54 patients. No procedure‐related mortality was observed. Adverse events occurred after 11 (18%) pleurodesis procedures. The most frequent complication was mild thoracic pain that occurred immediately after 10 (16.4%) procedures, and one patient developed pleural empyema that was treated with drainage and antibiotics. A success rate of 98.4% was observed. Except for the patient who developed pleural empyema, none of the other patients had recurrences of pleural fluid or required additional pleural procedures during the follow‐up period (mean of 5.6 months).Conclusions:  Iodopovidone pleurodesis was successful and was associated with only a few minor complications. It appears to be a good option for the management of recurrent MPE.