bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
How does the health and well-being of young Australian vegetarian and semi-vegetarian women compare with non-vegetarians?
Authors: Baines Surinder , Powers Jennifer , Brown Wendy J 
Published: April 2007

AbstractObjectiveTo compare the sociodemographic characteristics, health status and health service use of vegetarians, semi-vegetarians and non-vegetarians.DesignIn cross-sectional data analyses of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health in 2000, 9113 women (aged 22–27 years) were defined as non-vegetarians if they reported including red meat in their diet, as semi-vegetarians if they excluded red meat and as vegetarians if they excluded meat, poultry and fish from their diet.ResultsThe estimated prevalence was 3% and 10% for vegetarian and semi-vegetarian young women. Compared with non-vegetarians, vegetarians and semi-vegetarians were more likely to live in urban areas and to not be married. Vegetarians and semi-vegetarians had lower body mass index (mean (95% confidence interval): 22.2 (21.7–22.7) and 23.0 (22.7–23.3) kg m− 2) than non-vegetarians (23.7 (23.6–23.8) kg m− 2) and tended to exercise more. Semi-vegetarians and vegetarians had poorer mental health, with 21–22% reporting depression compared with 15% of non-vegetarians (P < 0.001). Low iron levels and menstrual symptoms were also more common in both vegetarian groups. Vegetarian and semi-vegetarian women were more likely to consult alternative health practitioners and semi-vegetarians reported taking more prescription and non-prescription medications. Compared with non-vegetarians, semi-vegetarians were less likely and vegetarians much less likely to be taking the oral contraceptive pill.ConclusionThe levels of physical activity and body mass indices of the vegetarian and semi-vegetarian women suggest they are healthier than non-vegetarians. However, the greater reports of menstrual problems and the poorer mental health of these young women may be of clinical significance.
Overweight and obesity among Iranian female adolescents in Rasht: more overweight in the lower social group
Authors: Maddah Mohsen 
Published: April 2007

AbstractObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the frequency of overweight and obesity among Iranian adolescent girls aged 14–17 years and its possible association with maternal education in Rasht city in 2005.DesignA cross-sectional survey on 1054 schoolgirls.SettingHigh schools in Rasht city, Iran.MethodsA multistage sampling method was used and 1054 randomly selected schoolgirls were studied. Data on age and mother's years of schooling were collected by questionnaire and body weight and height were measured. Overweight and obesity were defined using age- and sex-specific body mass index (BMI) cut-off points proposed by the International Obesity Task Force (IOTF), and compared with 85th and 95th BMI percentile curves of the IOTF reference population, respectively. Data analyses included two groups based on mother's years of schooling: less educated ( < 12 years) and more educated ( ≥ 12 years).ResultsThe overall prevalence of overweight and obesity in this population was 21.9 and 5.3%, respectively. Results of logistic regression analysis showed that the risk of overweight was higher for lower age group (odds ratio = 2.0, 95% confidence interval 0.18–3.09). Overweight was more common in girls with less educated mothers than in girls with more educated mothers (26.0 vs. 19.8%,P = 0.03).ConclusionThese data indicate that overweight is highly prevalent among adolescent girls, especially in lower social groups in Rasht, and the rate is exceeding those reported in other parts of the country. Preventive strategies need to be adopted to combat the epidemic of overweight and obesity in this population.
Plant breeding to control zinc deficiency in India: how cost-effective is biofortification?
Authors: Stein Alexander J , Nestel Penelope , Meenakshi JV , Qaim Matin , Sachdev HPS , Bhutta Zulfiqar A 
Published: April 2007

AbstractObjectiveTo estimate the potential impact of zinc biofortification of rice and wheat on public health in India and to evaluate its cost-effectiveness compared with alternative interventions and international standards.DesignThe burden of zinc deficiency (ZnD) in India was expressed in disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) lost. Current zinc intakes were derived from a nationally representative household food consumption survey (30-day recall) and attributed to household members based on adult equivalent weights. Using a dose–response function, projected increased zinc intakes from biofortified rice and wheat were translated into potential health improvements for pessimistic and optimistic scenarios. After estimating the costs of developing and disseminating the new varieties, the cost-effectiveness of zinc biofortification was calculated for both scenarios and compared with alternative micronutrient interventions and international reference standards.SettingIndia.SubjectsRepresentative household survey (n = 119 554).ResultsThe calculated annual burden of ZnD in India is 2.8 million DALYs lost. Zinc biofortification of rice and wheat may reduce this burden by 20–51% and save 0.6–1.4 million DALYs each year, depending on the scenario. The cost for saving one DALY amounts to $US 0.73–7.31, which is very cost-effective by standards of the World Bank and the World Health Organization, and is lower than that of most other micronutrient interventions.ConclusionsNot only may zinc biofortification save lives and prevent morbidity among millions of people, it may also help accommodate the need to economise and to allocate resources more efficiently. Further research is needed to corroborate these findings.
The infant feeding practices of mothers in the Maldives
Authors: Abdulraheem R , Binns CW 
Published: April 2007

AbstractObjectiveTo document the infant feeding practices of Maldivian mothers.MethodsA cross-sectional survey of 251 Maldivian mothers recruited in 2004 from the ‘well baby’ or ‘well child’ clinics on the island of Male' and including 75 mothers from three other islands, Hura, Himmafushi and Thulusdhoo.ResultsThe full breast-feeding rate at hospital discharge was 93% but declined to 41% at 4 months. Any breast-feeding rates were high among Maldivian mothers: 100% at 1 month and 85% were still breast-feeding at 6 months. The median duration of breast-feeding was 24 months.ConclusionBreast-feeding rates are high and the average duration of breast-feeding is more than 2 years in the Maldives. Health promotion activities should be directed towards maintaining the already high ‘any breast-feeding’ rates and increasing the proportion of infants exclusively breast-fed to 6 months.
Dependence of blood indices of selenium and mercury on estimated fish intake in a national survey of British adults
Authors: Bates Christopher J , Prentice Ann , Birch Maureen C , Delves H Trevor 
Published: April 2007

AbstractObjectiveContributions of fish and other foods to variance of selenium and mercury status were studied in British adults.Setting and designPlasma and red-cell selenium and whole-blood mercury concentrations were measured during the National Diet and Nutrition Survey of Adults aged 19–64 years in mainland Britain, 2000–2001 (n = 1216). Food intake was weighed for seven consecutive days, and foods were combined in groups for data analysis. Four subsidiary groups characterised fish intakes: fried white fish, ‘other’ white fish, shellfish and oily fish.ResultsGeometric means and 5–95% ranges were: for whole-blood mercury, 5.61 (1.30–22.2) nmol l− 1; for plasma selenium, 1.09 (0.83–1.43) μmol l− 1; for red-cell selenium, 1.64 (1.14–2.40) μmol l− 1. Twenty-eight per cent had no fish intake recorded during 7 days; the remaining 72% had a median intake of 237 g over the 7-day period, 5–95% range 45–780 g. Total fish intake was strongly and directly correlated with blood mercury, and moderately with red-cell and plasma selenium. Thus, sqrt(total fish intake) was correlated with: loge(blood Hg), t = +19.7; loge(plasma Se), t = +9.8; and loge(red-cell Se), t = +9.6, all P < 0.0001. All three biochemical (mercury and selenium) indices were strongly correlated with oily fish intake, and moderately correlated with shellfish and ‘other’ ( = non-fried) white fish, but none was significantly correlated with fried white fish. Blood mercury was strongly and directly correlated with red-cell and plasma selenium, and both increased with age.ConclusionsDietary fish, especially oily fish, is a strong predictor of blood mercury and selenium in British adults.
Comparative validation of standard, picture-sort and meal-based food-frequency questionnaires adapted for an elderly population of low socio-economic status
Authors: Quandt Sara A , Vitolins Mara Z , Smith Shannon L , Tooze Janet A , Bell Ronny A , Davis Cralen C , DeVellis Robert F , Arcury Thomas A 
Published: April 2007

AbstractObjectiveTo compare the validity of a modified Block food-frequency questionnaire (FFQ), a picture-sort administration of the FFQ (PSFFQ) and a meal pattern-based questionnaire (MPQ) in a multi-ethnic population of low socio-economic status (SES).DesignParticipants completed six 24-hour dietary recalls (24HR) over six months; the FFQ, PSFFQ and MPQ were completed in random order in the subsequent month. Instruments were interviewer-administered. The PSFFQ and MPQ were developed in formative research concerning difficulties for older adults in responding to standard food-frequency instruments.SettingRural North Carolina, USA.SubjectsOne hundred and twenty-two African American, Native American and white adults aged ≥ 65 years, with approximately one-third in each ethnic group. Inclusion criteria included education ≤ 12 years and income ≤ 150% of national poverty level or Medicaid recipient.ResultsComparing median intakes from the average of the 24HR with the three diet assessment instruments, the MPQ tended to overestimate intakes compared with the FFQ and PSFFQ. Correlations among nutrients obtained by the 24HR and the other three instruments were generally statistically significant and positive. Across nutrients, the PSFFQ was most highly correlated with the 24HR for women, while the FFQ was most highly correlated with the 24HR for men.ConclusionsDietary assessments using 24HR and FFQ were similar to results reported elsewhere, although correlations between 24HR and FFQ were somewhat lower. Interviewer-administered dietary assessments should be used with caution to evaluate dietary intake among older adults with low SES. Gender differences and the lower correlations should be investigated more thoroughly to assist in choosing dietary assessment instruments for this population.
Stabilization of wrist position during horseback riding at trot
Authors: Terada K , Clayton HM , Kato K 
Published: April 2007

AbstractKinematic analysis has been used to understand performance in many sports, but few objective studies of equestrian technique have been published. The objective was to describe movements of the rider's torso and arms relative to movements of the horse's pelvis and shoulder and the position of the bit during trotting. Six experienced female riders rode the same dressage horse at a sitting trot, with rider and horse kinematics collected. The trot is a symmetrical gait, which implies kinematic symmetry between the first and the second halves of the gait. Three trials of a half stride, from left forelimb lift-off to right forelimb lift-off, were analysed for each subject. In all riders, trunk angle was maximal (backward tilt) in early stance, at which time the rider's hips were closest to and the rider's shoulders were furthest from the bit. Trunk angle was minimal (forward tilt) at the end of stance when the shoulders were closest to and the hips were furthest from the bit. Range of motion of the rider's hips and shoulders varied greatly between subjects. Movements of the rider's shoulder joint and elbow joint were synchronized with the trunk oscillations, so the distance from the rider's wrist to the horse's bit changed by only 15 ± 3 mm during the stride. It is concluded that the six experienced riders were able to accommodate the motion of the horse's body while maintaining a consistent contact with the bit by minimizing changes in the distance from the wrist to the bit.
Changes in shape of the Standardbred distal phalanx and hoof capsule in response to exercise
Authors: Cruz CD , Thomason JJ , Faramarzi B , Bignell WW , Sears W , Dobson H , Konyer NB 
Published: April 2007

AbstractThe aims of this study were to determine whether the equine distal phalanx changes in shape in response to exercise and to relate any osseous changes to those in the hoof capsule. Eighteen mature Standardbred horses were randomly divided into exercise and control groups. Exercised horses were jogged on a straight track at individual mean speeds between 4 and 8 m s− 1for 10–45 min, 4 days per week for 16 weeks. Both groups were similarly shod and pastured on the same field. Before and after the training period, each horse had digital photographs and magnetic resonance images (MRI) made of the right forehoof. Five linear measurements of the distal phalanx were recorded from the MRI and 24 measurements of the hoof capsule were made on the digital photographs. Small but significant changes in bone width (P = 0.039) were found in the controls and in two sagittal measurements of bone length (P = 0.039, 0.001, respectively) for the exercise group. These changes were slight and did not correlate with changes in shape of the hoof capsule, suggesting that the bone acts as a stable platform for supporting the capsule and withstanding loads.
The European Convention on Human Rights and International Law
Authors: Wildhaber Luzius 
Published: April 2007

AbstractThis article is an expanded and footnoted version of the lectur given at the British Institute of International and Comparative Law on Tuesday 21 March 2006, entitled ‘International Law in the European Court of Human Rights’.The article begins with some comparative comments on the application of the European Convention on Human Rights in monistic and dualistic systems It then discusses in detail the European Court's case law which confirms that the Convention, despite its special character as a human rights treaty, is indeed part of public international law. It concludes that the Convention and international law find themselves in a kind of interactive mutual relationship. checking and buildine on each other.
The Role and Functioning of Mutual Recognition in the European Market of Financial Services
Authors: Ortino Matteo 
Published: April 2007

AbstractIn Europe part of the rule-making and the whole enforcement of financial services regulation still take place at national level. For this reason, mutual recognition of national financial laws remains an element of central importance in the creation and regulation of a European market in this field. This article seeks to contribute to the analysis of such legal instrument, as several aspects of its functioning often appear unclear. The article starts by analysing the principle of mutual recognition as developed by the European Court of Justice. An important distinction is drawn between such judicially created principle and the principle of mutual recognition applied by the EC legislator. The article then looks at the question of why mutual recognition has not succeeded as a regulatory mechanism of financial services market integration, and at the role of mutual recognition after the introduction of the so-called ‘Lamfalussy’ law-making process to the financial services sector.
Non-Discriminatory Tax Obstacles in Community Law
Authors: Snell Jukka 
Published: April 2007

AbstractThis article compares the approach of the Court of Justice in the area of taxation with its general case law on restrictions on free movement. It is argued that the Court, while sometimes referring to the same concepts as in the field of regulatory barriers, is in practice employing a narrower test. The possible reasons for the comparatively cautious approach are analysed and the issue of double taxation is examined, with reference also to the US case law. Finally, the connections to larger questions concerning the nature of the single market and the roles of the Community institutions are noted.
The Public—Private Distinction in the International Arbitration of Individual Claims against the State
Authors: Van Harten Gus 
Published: April 2007

AbstractDoes the rise of international arbitration signify a retreat of the State from classical adjudication? In examining this question, it is important to distinguish contract-based arbitration of individual claims against the State from arbitration pursuant to investment treaties. The former is broadly limited to the private sphere of the State's activity, whereas the latter gives arbitrators a comprehensive jurisdiction over public law. An elaboration of this distinction, and the grey area within it, demonstrates that the significance of international arbitration for juridical sovereignty is its privatization of the authority to define the very concept of the public sphere.
Functional Outcome of Vocal Fold Medialization Thyroplasty With a Hydroxyapatite Implant
Authors: Storck Claudio , Brockmann Meike , Schnellmann Elvira , Stoeckli Sandro J. , Schmid Stephan 
Published: April 2007

AbstractObjectives: Unilateral vocal fold paralysis can cause a persistent incomplete glottal closure during phonation, resulting in impaired voice function. The aim of this study was to evaluate functional results of medialization thyroplasty using a hydroxyapatite implant (VoCoM).Study Design: Prospective observational cohort study.Methods: Between 1999 and 2003, a total of 26 patients (19 men, 7 women) undergoing medialization thyroplasty using a hydroxyapatite implant because of unilateral vocal fold paralysis were enrolled in the study. To evaluate voice function, the following parameters were measured preoperatively and postoperatively: mean fundamental frequency, mean sound pressure level, frequency and amplitude range (voice range profile), and maximum phonation time. A perceptual assessment of hoarseness was conducted using the Roughness, Breathiness, Hoarseness scale. Furthermore, the magnitude of voice related impairment of the patient's communication skills was rated on a 7‐point scale. A combined parameter called the Voice Dysfunction Index (VDI) was used to rate vocal performance.Results: All patients showed a statistically significant improvement in the VDI, in perceptual voice analysis, in maximum phonation time, and in the dynamic range of voice. One patient experienced a postoperative wound hemorrhage as a minor complication. No further complications or implant extrusions were observed.Conclusions: Medialization thyroplasty using a hydroxyapatite implant is a secure and efficient phonosurgical procedure. Voice quality and patient satisfaction improve significantly after treatment.
Utility of Lip Biopsy in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Sjogren's Syndrome
Authors: Langerman Alexander J. , Blair Elizabeth A. , Sweiss Nadera J. , Taxy Jerome B. 
Published: April 2007

AbstractObjective: Sjogren's syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disease involving primarily the salivary and lacrimal glands (“sicca” symptoms) with extraglandular features including joint and nervous system involvement. In patients with a questionable diagnosis of SS but severe extraglandular symptoms, a lip biopsy is often performed to firmly establish the diagnosis of SS. This study was undertaken to identify areas of uncertainty regarding the accuracy of biopsy interpretation and the diagnostic benefits of the procedure.Study Design: Retrospective review of clinical and pathologic data.Methods: Clinical data from 47 patients referred to the otolaryngology–head and neck surgery service for lip biopsy were reviewed. Archival pathologic specimens were scored using the currently accepted grading system.Results: The grading system was incorrectly applied during initial interpretation of 45% (n = 21) of specimens. This resulted in five (10%) pathologic misdiagnoses and 16 (34%) nondiagnoses. On re‐interpreting the specimens with consistent application of the grading system, 62% (n = 29) of the biopsies were definitely positive, and 36% (n = 17) were negative. Neither positive serology nor the presence of sicca symptoms predicted a positive biopsy (likelihood ratio = 0.95 and 0.96, respectively). Lip biopsy guided treatment in at least 65% (n = 31) of patients but was ignored in the presence of other clinical findings in 17% (n = 8) of patients.Conclusions: Consistent application of the grading system is essential in avoiding incorrect diagnosis and aiding clinical decisions. However, not all patients undergoing lip biopsy will derive diagnostic benefit from the procedure. In this series, clinical symptoms and serology did not predict positive lip biopsy.
Emerging Trends in the Performance of Parathyroid Surgery
Authors: Terris David J. , Chen Nan , Seybt Melanie W. , Gourin Christine G. , Chin Edward 
Published: April 2007

AbstractObjective: The management of hyperparathyroidism has evolved rapidly in the past decade with the introduction of intraoperative parathyroid hormone testing, radioguided surgery, and endoscopic surgery. Not surprisingly, there is a corresponding movement toward specialization of surgeons providing increasingly sophisticated treatments for head and neck endocrine disorders. We sought to identify trends in the disciplines performing parathyroid surgery.Design: Nonrandomized, controlled comparison of surgical caseloads and publication volumes.Methods and Materials: Two metrics designed to reflect the proportion of parathyroidectomies being performed by otolaryngologist–head and neck surgeons (OHNS) and general surgeons (GS) were chosen: the operative case logs of graduates from American training programs in OHNS and GS from 1996 through 2005 and the number of scientific papers published relating to parathyroid surgery during two timeframes (1991–1995 and 2001–2005).Results: There was a gradual increase in the mean number of parathyroid surgeries performed by GS residents from 6.0 in 1996 to a peak of 9.2 in 2004; this volume has begun to decline (to 8.5 in 2005). During the same timeframe, the mean number of parathyroidectomies performed by OHNS residents rose sharply and steadily from 1.8 in 1996 to 10.9 in 2005. The number of American GS parathyroid publications from 1991 to 1995 was 41, compared with 108 in the period 2001 to 2005. During the same timeframe, the number of American OHNS parathyroid papers increased from 1 to 27. The relative proportion of parathyroid publications authored by American otolaryngologists rose from 2.4% to 20.0% (P = .006).Conclusions: Increasingly, otolaryngologists are the primary surgeons in parathyroid operations as indicated by two surrogate metrics. Graduating chief residents in otolaryngology now perform more parathyroid procedures than chief residents in general surgery, and a growing proportion of parathyroid publications are being authored by otolaryngologists.