bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Testicular growth from birth to two years of age, and the effect of orchidopexy at age nine months: A randomized, controlled study
Authors: Kollin Claude , Hesser Ulf , Martin Ritzén E , Karpe Bengt 
Published: August 2010

AbstractAim: To study whether surgical treatment at age 9 mo in boys with congenital unilaterally palpable undescended testes (cryptorchidism) is followed by improved growth of the previously retained testes compared to non‐treatment. Methods: At the age of 6 mo, 70 boys were randomized to surgical treatment at 9 mo and 79 boys to treatment at 3 y of age. The boys were then followed at 12 and 24 mo. Ultrasonography was used to determine testicular volume. Results: After orchidopexy, the previously retained testes resumed growth and were significantly larger than the non‐operated testes at 2 y (0.49 ml vs 0.36 ml, p<0.001). Testicular growth after orchidopexy was also demonstrated by a higher mean ratio between the previously retained and the scrotal testes of the individual boys at 2 y: 0.84 for the surgically treated group, compared to 0.63 for the untreated group (p<0.001).Conclusion: Surgery at 9 mo has a beneficial effect on the growth of previously undescended testes.
Breastfeeding duration and blood pressure among Brazilian adolescents
Authors: Horta Bernardo L. , Victora Cesar G. , Lima Rosangela C. , Gonçalves Helen , Guimarães Beatriz E. , Barros Fernando C. 
Published: August 2010

Abstract Objective: To assess the relationship between breastfeeding duration and blood pressure in a large birth cohort of Brazilians followed from birth to adolescence. Methods: All 5914 hospital births occurring in Pelotas in 1982 (over 99% of all deliveries) were studied prospectively. Detailed information on feeding practices was prospectively collected during childhood. In 1997 and 2001 we attempted to trace a sample of the cohort, whereas in 2000 we identified the male subjects when presenting for the army recruitment exam. Blood pressure measurements were taken in 1997 for both sexes, males in 2000 and females in 2001. Results: Information on breastfeeding collected between 1983 and 1986 was available for 90.8% of the 5914 original cohort subjects. We managed to follow 1076, 2250 and 1031 subjects in 1997, 2000 and 2001, respectively. Total breastfeeding duration was not associated with systolic and diastolic blood pressure in adolescence. Diastolic blood pressure at the age of 15 y (1997) was higher among girls who had been predominantly breastfed for at least 4 mo. After controlling for confounding variables (family income, maternal education at birth and maternal BMI at birth, skin colour, birthweight, gestational age, maternal smoking during pregnancy, adolescent smoking and alcohol drinking), the strength of the association was reduced and the 95% confidence interval encompassed the other blood pressure estimates. Furthermore, such association was not replicated in the 2001 follow‐up visit. Conclusion: Breastfeeding duration was not related to blood pressure in adolescence.
Osteogenesis imperfecta: Anthropometric, skeletal and mineral metabolic effects of long‐term intravenous pamidronate therapy
Authors: Vallo Alfredo , Rodriguez‐Leyva Francisco , Rodríguez Soriano Juan 
Published: August 2010

Abstract Background: Administration of bisphosphonates represents a beneficial therapy in children and adolescents with severe osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) because it significantly reduces the annual rate of bone fractures. Aim: To evaluate the anthropometric, skeletal and mineral metabolic effects of long‐term intravenous pamidronate therapy in OI. Methods: Ten patients, aged 5 mo to 25 y, with OI received cyclical intravenous pamidronate. The yearly dose of pamidronate was approximately 9 mg/kg/d at all ages. Duration of treatment varied from a minimum of 2 y to a maximum of 5 y. Growth, bone mass and mineral metabolic parameters were studied at baseline and repeated every year thereafter. Bone mass was assessed by calculation of bone mineral apparent density (L2–L4 BMAD). This represents the first study on the changes in size‐adjusted measures of bone mass observed with such therapy. Results: While on therapy, all children and adolescents grew normally but did not experience any manifest catch‐up growth. A significant decrease in the incidence of bone fractures was observed. In seven patients with severe forms, L2–L4 BMAD increased by 80% after the first 2 y of therapy but tended to stabilize or even decrease over the following years despite maintenance of therapy. A significant inverse correlation could be established between urinary Ca excretion and L2–L4 BMAD (r= − 0.30, p < 0.05). Conclusion: Our results confirm that cyclical pamidronate infusions reduce the incidence of bone fractures and allow normal growth. The improvement in bone mass initially observed after the first 2 y of therapy is not always sustained over the following years despite maintenance of therapy.
Effects of sociodemographic factors on adherence to breastfeeding and other important infant dietary recommendations
Authors: Gudnadottir Maria , Sigurdur Gunnarsson Björn , Thorsdottir Inga 
Published: August 2010

Abstract Aim: To examine in an affluent and healthy population the association between sociodemographic factors and the adherence to key infant dietary recommendations. Methods: In a longitudinal prospective study, healthy newborns were selected randomly in maternity wards around Iceland and their diet recorded every month for one year (n=124). In addition, a 48‐hour‐weighed‐record, including information on added sugar, fruits, vegetables and the use of A and D vitamin drops was completed by 91 (73%) mothers at 9 and 12 months. Information about the mothers’ education, smoking, age, parity, and family income was collected (n=98; 79%). Results: Regression analyses, including sociodemographic factors, showed exclusive breastfeeding to be positively associated with more education (P=0.022) and non‐smoking (P=0.013) explaining 22% of the variance, and total breastfeeding (exclusive + partial) with non‐smoking (P=0.006). Multiple regression also showed children's intake of added sugar from 9–12 months to be positively associated with mother's smoking (P=0.022) and negatively with age (P = 0.026), explaining 30% of variance. Sociodemographic factors were associated with children's fruit and vegetable consumption but not with the administration of AD‐vitamin drops. However, when tested for significance between groups, younger mothers with fewer children seemed less likely to give AD‐vitamin drops. Conclusions: In a group of mothers getting regular antenatal care and giving birth to healthy infants, sociodemographic factors can predict which mothers need special guidance concerning recommendations about diet in infancy. These were mothers with less education, who smoked, were younger and were having their first or second child.
Phagocytosis of Giardia lamblia trophozoites by human colostral leukocytes
Authors: França‐Botelho Aline C. , Honório‐França Adenilda C. , França Eduardo L. , Aparecida Gomes Maria , Costa‐Cruz Julia M. 
Published: August 2010

Abstract Aim: To determine the phagocytic activity of the polymorphonuclear and mononuclear cells present in human colostrum, and to verify the influence of opsonins in the adherence, ingestion and killing of Giardia lamblia trophozoites. Methods: Polymorphonuclear and mononuclear phagocytes were incubated with G. lamblia trophozoites, in the presence as well as the absence of supernatant of human colostrum (the source of opsonins) for 30, 60 and 120 min. The trophozoites/phagocytes ratio was 1:1, and the percentage of phagocytosed trophozoites was determined by microscopic examination of acridine orange‐stained cells. Results: The mononuclear phagocytes presented more functional activity than the polymorphonuclear. The highest indexes of adherence (77.6±5.1), ingestion (68.9±5.5) and killing (48.5±4.9) were obtained through the incubation of mononuclear cells in the presence of colostrum supernatant for 120 min. Conclusion: The phagocytes of human colostrum were able to ingest G. lamblia trophozoites and presented microbicidal activity in vitro, suggesting that these phagocytes may act as an additional mechanism of protection against infant giardiasis through breastfeeding.
Asplenia syndrome in a pair of monozygotic twins
Authors: Hwang Mao‐Sheng , Su Wen‐Jen , Lin Ju‐Li 
Published: August 2010

AbstractAsplenia syndrome is one of the heterotaxy syndromes, which many familial and animal studies suggest are caused by the loss of adequate genetic control of normal left–right asymmetry development. Moreover, there has not been any environmental factor documented to cause these syndromes. Asplenia syndrome occurring in a pair of monozygotic twins is reported. In view of the negative family history, a new germline mutant gene might be the aetiology of our patients. Both twins are associated with some degree of discordant complex heart defects within the context of a high degree of “mirror‐image” of the unpaired thoracoabdominal organs. Conclusion: This report implies that sporadic asplenia syndrome might associate with new mutations and further genetic study may be indicated. These monozygotic twins' discordant phenotypes imply that some unidentified factors play an important role in their ultimate development of the same genetically determined abnormalities.
Neonatal omphalitis: A review of its serious complications
Authors: Fraser Nia , Davies Brian W. , Cusack Jonathan 
Published: August 2010

AbstractUntil the advent of aseptic deliveries and aseptic umbilical cord care, many deaths occurred from umbilical infections. Omphalitis is a localized infection of the umbilical cord stump, most commonly caused by a single organism, which usually responds well to appropriate antibiotics. Umbilical sepsis is relatively uncommon in the developed world but is endemic in less‐developed regions. Complications of omphalitis are exceedingly rare, but potentially catastrophic. Many of these babies will require surgical intervention. This paper aims to review the serious complications of omphalitis and how these should be managed. Conclusion: It is important to be aware of the rare but potentially lethal complications of omphalitis. Prompt recognition of serious sequelae is crucial for survival.
Transient and chronic neutropenias detected in children with different viral and bacterial infections
Authors: Karavanaki K. , Polychronopoulou S. , Giannaki M. , Haliotis F. , Sider B. , Brisimitzi M. , Dimitriou C. , Scordias G. , Marangou F. , Stamatiadou A. , Avlonitis S. 
Published: August 2010

Abstract Aim: The aim of the study was to identify the relationship of acquired neutropenias with infections in childhood and to assess their course, complications, short and long‐term outcome. Method: During a two‐year period, all children admitted to the pediatric ward with neutropenia were investigated for underlying infections with indices of infection, cultures of body fluids and serological tests. Results: Sixty‐seven previously healthy children, aged (median, 25–75%) 0.7 years (0.2–1.5), were identified with neutropenia (frequency: 2.0%). An infectious agent was identified in 34/67 cases (50.7%) (viral infection: n=24, bacterial: n=10). In 50/67 (74.6%) children, neutropenia recovered within 2 months (transient neutropenia, TN), while in 17/67 (25.4%) of them it persisted for more than two months. Two years after diagnosis 50/67 children (74.6%) accepted to be reassessed. Of these children, 8/50 (16%) remained neutropenic (neutropenic children, NC), while 42/50 had recovered completely. Conclusion: Neutropenia during childhood is usually transient, often following viral and common bacterial infections, does not present serious complications and in the majority, it resolves spontaneously. However, in a significant percentage of patients, neutropenia is discovered during the course of an infection, on a ground of a preceding chronic neutropenic status.
Glucocorticoid receptor and vascular endothelial growth factor in nephrotic syndrome
Authors: Wasilewska Anna , Zoch‐Zwierz Walentyna 
Published: August 2010

Abstract Aim: The aim of the study was to assess plasma and urine concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in nephrotic syndrome children (NS) depending on the total dose of glucocorticoids (GC) and the percentage of lymphocytes with glucocorticoid receptor expression (CD3/GCR). Methods: We examined 51 children (2–15 years), allocated to three groups: group I: 13 children with the first NS onset, group II: 13 children with NS relapse, group C: 25 healthy children. The NS patients were examined: (A) before treatment and (B) 4–5 weeks after prednisone administration at a dose of 60 mg/m2/24 h. Plasma and urinary VEGF levels were determined using the immunoenzymatic ELISA method. Flow cytometry was applied to assess CD3/GCR expression. Results: Higher plasma and urinary VEGF concentrations were noted in NS children before treatment (A), as compared to control subjects (C). Following prednisone therapy (B), VEGF level was reduced but it was still higher than in the control group. Positive correlation was observed between VEGF and protein in the urine (group I r = 0.660, P < 0.05, group II r = 0.818, P<0.01) and a weak positive correlation between VEGF in plasma and urine (group I r = 0.531, P<0.05, group II – r = 0.581, P<0.05). CD3/GCR expression was lower in group II. In both groups, the correlation between plasma VEGF and CD3/GCR was positive (P<0.05). Conclusions: 1. Plasma and urinary VEGF levels increase during nephrotic syndrome onset. 2. Glucocorticoid treatment reduces plasma and urinary VEGF levels in NS children.
Rheumatic fever‐mimicking carditis as a first presentation of chronic active Epstein‐Barr virus infection
Authors: Toubo Taikai , Ohga Shouichi , Takada Hidetoshi , Suga Naohiro , Nomura Akihiko , Ohno Takurou , Hara Toshiro 
Published: August 2010

AbstractA 7‐y‐old girl presented with prolonged fever, arrhythmia and cardiomegaly during the treatment course of group A β‐haemolytic streptococcal pharyngitis. The isolated rheumatogenic strain M1 suggested the diagnosis of rheumatic fever. However, serous pericardial effusion contained high levels of Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) DNA. Clonally proliferating EBV+ T cells were determined in the circulation. The atypical carditis without valvitis was then complicated by coronary artery dilatations. Four months after the start of prednisolone plus antiviral/bacterial therapy, EBV+ T‐cell lymphoma developed in the thigh. Conclusion: Atypical carditis may be a notable and life‐threatening presentation of chronic active EBV infection to be differentiated from rheumatic fever.
A boy with coeliac disease and obesity
Authors: Oso Olumuyiwa , Fraser Neil C. 
Published: August 2010

Abstract Aim: To report the case of a 14‐y‐old boy with coeliac disease and obesity. Methods and results: A 14‐y‐old boy presented with episodic diarrhoea associated with eating spaghetti. His body mass index (BMI) at presentation was 37.2 kg/m2 (>99.9th centile). Both antigliadin and anti‐endomysial antibodies were positive, and coeliac disease was diagnosed by jejunal biopsy. His diarrhoea ceased and the gliadin and endomysial antibodies disappeared after starting gluten‐free diet. At 17 y, his BMI increased to 42.7 kg/m2 despite dietary support. Conclusion: Obesity in a child does not exclude the diagnosis of coeliac disease, especially if presenting with suggestive symptoms.
Prenatal and postnatal maternal smoking as risk factors for preschool children's mental health
Authors: Höök Börje , Cederblad Marianne , Berg Roland 
Published: August 2010

Abstract Aim: To identify maternal prenatal and postnatal smoking as risk factors for psychosocial behaviour problems in Swedish preschool children. Methods: This prospective, longitudinal population study compared mothers’ self‐reported smoking during pregnancy and when the child was 3 mo old with behaviour problems according to Achenbach's Child Behavior Checklist at 3 y (1428 children) and 5.5 y of age (677 of the children). Results: 16% of the mothers smoked during pregnancy and the same number after the birth of the child. Controlling for possible confounding variables, maternal smoking was significantly related to externalizing problems, aggressive behaviour, and destructive/delinquent behaviour both at 3 y and 5.5 y. The effect was as strong for girls as for boys. Length and weight were lower for children of smoking mothers than for children of non‐smoking mothers. Conclusion: Our study supports the importance of preventing maternal smoking during pregnancy and the infant years. Even a few cigarettes per day have negative consequences for the child. The goal must be total abstinence from smoking both pre‐ and postnatally.
Effects of parental smoking and level of education on initiation and duration of breastfeeding
Authors: Di Napoli Anteo , Di Lallo Domenico , Pezzotti Patrizio , Forastiere Francesco , Porta Daniela 
Published: August 2010

AbstractAim:To evaluate the effects of parental smoking and level of education on the initiation and duration of breastfeeding in a prospective cohort study on mother–infant pairs.Methods:We studied 543 mother–infant pairs enrolled after delivery at a hospital in Rome. Information about parents’ characteristics were obtained from a questionnaire administered in hospital; the outcome of the study was the infant's feeding habits in the preceding 24 h, assessed by telephone every 2 wk. The effects of parental smoking and level of education on initiation and duration of breastfeeding were evaluated through multivariate logistic regression models and time‐dependent Cox models.Results:After controlling for confounding factors, we found a negative effect for mothers’ smoking both on breastfeeding initiation (odds ratio 2.19, 95% CI 1.05–4.55) and duration (hazard ratio 3.37, 95% CI 1.85–6.13) when at least one parent had a low level of education.Conclusion:Our study shows that maternal smoking, particularly when one of the parents has a low level of education, determines a negative effect on the initiation and duration of breastfeeding. Public health policy should promote educational programmes for both parents focused on quitting smoking, which could have positive effects on the initiation and duration of breastfeeding.
Cigarette smoking during pregnancy and hyperactive‐distractible preschooler's: A follow‐up study
Authors: Markussen Linnet Karen , Obel Carsten , Bonde Else , Hove Thomsen Per , Jørgen Secher Niels , Wisborg Kirsten , Brink Henriksen Tine 
Published: August 2010

AbstractAim:To study the association between intrauterine exposure to tobacco smoke and behavioural disorders in preschool children, primarily symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity but also hostile‐aggressive and anxious‐fearful symptoms.Methods:We conducted a follow‐up study in 1355 singletons born to Danish‐speaking mothers. Information on smoking habits during pregnancy and other lifestyle factors was obtained from self‐administered questionnaires filled in during second and third trimester. Approximately 3.5 years later, the parents provided information on their child's behaviour using the self‐administered Preschool Behaviour Questionnaire. The children were categorized into three not mutually exclusive behaviour groups: hyperactive – distractible (13.6%), hostile–aggressive (4.6%), and anxious‐fearful (6.4%) children.Results:Compared with children of non‐smokers, children born to women who smoked 10 or more cigarettes per day had a 60% increased risk of hyperactivity and distractibility perceived by the parents (OR 1.6; 95% CI 1.0–2.3; P < 0.05). The results were adjusted for maternal lifestyle factors and socioeconomic characteristics. Additional adjustment for perinatal factors and parental psychiatric hospitalization did not change the results substantially (OR 1.7; 95% CI 1.1–2.6). We found no statistically significant association between maternal smoking in pregnancy and hostile–aggressive and anxious‐fearful behaviour in the offspring.Conclusion:Exposure to tobacco smoke in utero was associated with hyperactive‐distractible behaviour in preschool children.
Unmet education and training needs in adolescent health of health professionals in a UK children's hospital
Authors: McDonagh Janet E. , Minnaar Gregory , Kelly Karen , O'Connor David , Shaw Karen L. 
Published: August 2010

AbstractAim: To determine the perceived education and training needs in adolescent health of health professionals.Design:Cross‐sectional survey Setting and subjects: Hospital staff in a UK children's hospital.Outcome measures:perceived barriers, confidence, knowledge, skill and prior teaching in key adolescent health subject areas.Results:The hospital survey was completed by 159/1400 professionals representing a completion rate of 11%. Doctors and staff from ‘Professions allied to medicine’ rated ‘lack of training’, ‘lack of teaching materials’ and ‘lack of community resources’ as the main barriers to providing developmentally appropriate care. Sixty per cent of hospital respondents had received no prior specific training in adolescent health. All but four topics were perceived to be of very high or high importance by the majority of respondents (54–90%). Low scores in perceived knowledge, confidence and/or skill were reported in nine key subject areas (including adolescent mental health and substance use). Differences between doctors and professions allied to medicine were observed in a minority of areas.Conclusion:Unmet education and training needs of a range of professionals working in a paediatric setting were identified in key areas of adolescent health and they provide useful directions for the development of future multidisciplinary training programmes.
Angiotensin‐converting enzyme DD genotype is preventive against circulatory failure in very‐low‐birthweight neonates
Authors: Nobilis András , Szabó Miklós , Kocsis István , Sulyok Endre , Tulassay Tivadar , Vásárhelyi Barna 
Published: August 2010

AbstractWe studied the association between genetic polymorphisms of the renin‐angiotensin system and the risk for circulatory failure (CF) during the first three postnatal days in 104 very‐low‐birthweight preterm infants. Conclusion: Infants with angiotensin‐converting enzyme DD genotype were protected against CF (adjusted OR 0.41, 95% CI 0.19–0.89).
Nasal continuous positive airway pressure for neonatal back transfer
Authors: Ofoegbu Bibian N , Clarke Paul , Robinson Michael J 
Published: August 2010

AbstractWe report the use of nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) for neonatal back transfer of 51 babies. nCPAP may be used to provide safe respiratory support during back transportation of infants. Babies transferred on nCPAP were significantly smaller and of younger postmenstrual age than historical comparators who had to wait for transfer until independent of nCPAP. nCPAP transferred babies spent significantly less time on the intensive care unit.