bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Use of an Open‐freezing System with Self‐seeding for Cryopreservation of Mouse Ovarian Tissue
Authors: Maltaris T , Dimmler A , Müller A , Binder H , Hoffmann I , Kohl J , Siebzehnrübl E , Beckmann MW , Dittrich R 
Published: June 2005

ContentsChemoradiotherapy in young women with cancer has substantially improved life expectancy in these patients, but these treatments often cause infertility. One method of preserving fertility is to cryopreserve ovarian tissue. In this study, an automatic open‐vessel freezing system with self‐seeding was tested for cryopreservation of murine ovarian tissue; the mouse is a species widely used in human and veterinary medical research. The freezing system concerned, is used for cryopreservation of oocytes and embryos in Europe. Twenty severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice were ovariectomized. The ovarian tissue was either directly transplanted heterotopically into the neck muscle (group 1, n = 6) or cryopreserved after equilibration with 1.5 M dimethylsulphoxide and propanediol. After thawing, the tissue was transplanted in SCID mice (group 2, n = 6). Before and after thawing, a part of the ovarian tissue was examined with the LIVE/DEAD fluorescent viability staining. The count of follicles revealed intact (fresh 24.1%/thawed 21.7%), impaired (fresh 35.1%/thawed 35.4%), and dead follicles (fresh 40.8%/thawed 42.9%). The healthy follicular loss because of the cryopreservation was 10.0%. All recipient mice were killed after 3 weeks. Transplanted ovarian tissue was found macroscopically in all mice. Histological examination showed several growing follicles in all developmental phases in both groups of SCID mice [group 1 (fresh grafts): 315 ± 76.3 (mean ± SD); group 2 (cryopreserved grafts): 237 ± 63.4]. These results demonstrate that the use of an open‐freezing system allows the survival of cryopreserved mouse ovarian tissue.
Renal abscess with paranephric extension in a gravid woman: Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging findings
Authors: Puvaneswary M , Bisits A , Hosken B 
Published: June 2005

SummaryWe present a case of renal abscess with perinephric and paranephric extension. Ultrasonography showed an intrarenal lesion. The extension into the perinephric and paranephric space was better defined on MRI.
Australia‐wide comparison of intensity modulated radiation therapy prostate plans*
Authors: Skala M , Holloway L , Bailey M , Kneebone A 
Published: June 2005

SummaryThe aim of this study was to investigate the ability of Australian centres to produce high‐dose intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) prostate plans, and to compare the planning parameters and resultant dose distributions. Five Australian radiation therapy departments were invited to participate. Each centre received an identical 5 mm‐slice CT data set complete with contours of the prostate, seminal vesicles, rectum, bladder, femoral heads and body outline. The planning team was asked to produce the best plan possible, using published Memorial Sloan‐Kettering Cancer Centre prescription and dose constraints. Three centres submitted plans for evaluation. All plans covered the planning target volume adequately; however, only one plan met all the critical organ dose constraints. Although the planning parameters, beam arrangements and planning systems were different for each centre, the resulting plans were similar. In Australia, IMRT for prostate cancer is in the early stages of implementation, with routine use limited to a few centres.
Rendu–Osler–Weber syndrome presenting with pulmonary arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Halefoglu AM 
Published: June 2005

SummaryA pulmonary arteriovenous fistula is an abnormal connection between pulmonary arteries and veins. Patients with Rendu–Osler–Weber syndrome may present with this vascular malformation, which is a typical finding of the disease. Approximately 5–15% of Rendu–Osler–Weber syndrome patients have pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (AVM) and there is usually a family history of AVM in these patients. The malformations are usually located in the lower lobes. In this paper, I describe a 49‐year‐old male patient with dyspnoea, cough, haemoptysis and epistaxis. Physical examination showed nasal telangiectasias, cyanosis of the lips and nails, and a systolic bruit over the left lung. Chest X‐ray revealed a 5‐cm mass in the left lower lobe and after magnetic resonance examination, together with 3‐D magnetic resonance angiography, it was demonstrated to be a pulmonary arteriovenous fistula. The history of a niece with a similiar history of suspected pulmonary arteriovenous fistula led me to consider the possibility of Rendu–Osler–Weber syndrome presenting with a pulmonary arteriovenous fistula.
Anomalous unilateral single pulmonary vein: Two cases mimicking arteriovenous malformations and a review of the literature
Authors: Hanson JM , Wood AM , Seymour R , Petheram IS 
Published: June 2005

SummaryTotal anomalous pulmonary venous drainage is a rare congenital anomaly. It usually involves a pulmonary to systemic venous shunt and most cases have a septal defect in order to survive. Anomalous pulmonary venous drainage with pulmonary venous shunting is an extremely rare and entirely benign entity. We present two such cases, in which there was atresia of the left superior pulmonary vein and drainage via a tortuous collateral vein to the left inferior pulmonary vein. This collateral was mistaken on plain film and CT for a pulmonary arteriovenous malformation. Awareness of this anomalous unilateral single pulmonary vein and its radiological appearances may help in avoiding unnecessary pulmonary angiography.
Opaque maxillary antrum: A pictorial review
Authors: Whyte A , Chapeikin G 
Published: June 2005

SummaryThe demonstration of an opaque antrum on a plain radiograph or cross‐sectional imaging leads to consideration of an extensive differential diagnosis. Relevant clinical details narrow the differential and include the patient's age, signs and symptoms, a history of recent trauma, prior surgery or dental treatment. Computed tomography remains the most useful technique in coming to a specific diagnosis. Magnetic resonance imaging adds specificity in a few selected situations and is required in conjunction with CT in the staging of malignant tumours.
Power Doppler ‘blanching’ after the application of transducer pressure
Authors: Joshua F , De Carle R , Rayment M , Bryant C , Shnier R , Edmonds J , Lassere M 
Published: June 2005

SummaryThe aim of this study was to determine if transducer pressure modifies power Doppler assessments of rheumatoid arthritis synovium at the metacarpophalangeal joints and metatarsophalangeal joints. Five rheumatoid arthritis patients of varying degrees of ‘disease activity’ and damage were assessed with power Doppler ultrasound scanning of the dominant hand second to fifth metacarpophalangeal joints. Two rheumatoid arthritis patients had their dominant foot first to fifth metatarsophalangeal joints assessed with power Doppler ultrasound. Ultrasonography was performed with a high frequency transducer (14 MHz) with a colour mode frequency of 10 Mhz, and a standard colour box and gain. In the joint that showed the highest power Doppler signal, an image was made. A further image was taken after transducer pressure was applied. In all patients, there was increased flow to at least one joint. After pressure was applied, power Doppler signal intensity markedly reduced in all images and in some there was no recordable power Doppler signal. Increased transducer pressure can result in a marked reduction or obliteration in power Doppler signal. This power Doppler ‘blanching’ shows the need for further studies to evaluate sources of error and standardization before power Doppler ultrasound becomes a routine measure of ‘disease activity’ in rheumatoid arthritis.
Contrast‐enhanced three‐dimensional fast‐spoiled gradient magnetic resonance angiography of the renal arteries for potential living renal transplant donors: A comparative study with digital subtraction angiography
Authors: Al‐Saeed O , Ismail M , Sheikh M , Al‐Moosawi M , Al‐Khawari H 
Published: June 2005

SummaryPreoperative assessment of the arterial anatomy of prospective renal donors is essential. Various non‐invasive techniques are used for such evaluation. We conducted this study using contrast‐enhanced 3‐D fast‐spoiled gradient (CE 3‐D FSPGR) magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) on a 1.0 Tesla magnet, for preoperative definition of the renal arteries. Forty‐five preoperative living renal donors underwent CE 3‐D FSPGR MRA of the renal vessels and the results were compared with conventional digital subtraction angiography (DSA). The renal vascular anatomy, both normal and with variations, was satisfactorily defined in all 45 cases with CE 3‐D FSPGR MRA. Fifteen cases showed an accessory or aberrant arterial supply. A small aneurysm was shown in one case. All cases compared well with conventional DSA. Our study revealed that CE 3‐D FSPGR MRA on a lower field strength magnet is accurate in defining the renal vascular anatomy and its variations.
The role of psychological well‐being in retaining rural general practitioners
Authors: Gardiner Maria , Sexton Roger , Durbridge Mitchell , Garrard Kiara 
Published: June 2005

AbstractObjective:  Retention of rural GPs is an increasing area of concern and is receiving considerable attention from the government, medical authorities and the media. This study aimed to examine the potential for psychological interventions to assist in the retention of rural GPs through targeting their psychological well‐being. Design:  GPs completed a questionnaire, including questions about their level of support in rural practice, psychological health (work‐related morale and distress, distress related specifically to working in rural general practice, quality of work life) and intentions to leave rural practice. Setting:  Rural general practices in South Australia. Participants:  One hundred and eighty‐seven rural GPs. Results:  Results indicated that rural GPs who were seriously considering leaving rural practice had higher work‐related distress, higher distress related specifically to working in a rural general practice and lower quality of work life. GPs who considered leaving rural practice also reported having fewer colleagues with whom to discuss professional issues. Conclusion:  Results indicated that psychological interventions (such as cognitive behavioural training), assistance with stress reduction and coping mechanisms (such as more interaction with colleagues) may be of benefit to GPs who are considering leaving rural practice. Such training may increase the number of GPs who ultimately stay in rural practice.
Perspectives on clinic attendance, medication and foot‐care among people with diabetes in the Torres Strait Islands and Northern Peninsula Area
Authors: Wong Morva , Haswell‐Elkins Melissa , Tamwoy Elizabeth , McDermott Robyn , D’Abbs Peter 
Published: June 2005

AbstractObjective:  To achieve a better understanding of the perspectives and needs of Indigenous people with diabetes in the Torres Strait and to identify ways to promote successful self‐management of diabetes. Design:  Descriptive study collecting qualitative data in focus groups and in‐depth interviews. Analysis of three key areas of diabetes self‐care, namely attending appointments at the clinic, monitoring blood glucose levels and taking medication and foot‐care. Setting:  Informal settings in remote communities of the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area of Far North Queensland. Subjects:  Sixty‐seven Torres Strait Islanders (26 men and 41 women) with diabetes from eight Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area communities. Main outcome measures:  A better understanding of the views, enabling factors and barriers that people experience when managing their diabetes in remote Torres Strait communities. Results:  Participants who expressed satisfaction with clinical‐initiated sessions when called highlighted positive relationships and encouraging feedback from doctors. People's attitudes and practices related to oral and injectable treatments varied widely, possibly linked to levels of understanding. Widespread knowledge of foot‐care and fear of amputation in an environment highly conducive to foot sores and infection was evident. Generally, participants wanted more education and personal support in all areas of diabetes care. Service providers in health and other sectors need to place more emphasis on supporting self‐management of diabetes within the family and community environment.
An analysis of the development of a successful medical collaboration to create and sustain family physician anaesthesiology capacity in rural Canada
Authors: Lockyer Jocelyn , Norton Peter 
Published: June 2005

AbstractBackground:  Initial efforts to increase the availability of training positions, standardise training, and obtain national recognition for family physicians who wished to practise anaesthesia had stalled. Objective:  To describe the work undertaken to create and sustain family medicine anaesthesiology capacity in Canada. Methods:  In our review, we examined the critical aspects of successful intersectoral work, namely, involvement by key stakeholders; the development of decision‐making mechanisms; clearly defined objectives, roles and responsibilities; official support and legitimisation from participating organisations and adequate resources for partnership building. Setting:  Canadian rural family medicine anaesthesiology practice. Results:  A small steering committee obtained funding for a national meeting of stakeholders and subsequent committee work over an 18‐month period. The national meeting brought together the necessary stakeholders to review and discuss the issues and agree on a group‐determined agenda, determine a work plan, identify priority areas and allow the College of Family Physicians of Canada to be the lead organisation in moving the work ahead. Within 18 months, the boards of the key organisations had accepted a common set of standards for training and a national curriculum. Work remains in the longer term to identify sustainable funding for training of family physician as well as the provision of continuing medical education for those trained. Conclusions:  Appropriate attention to the key components of successful intersectoral work may enable previously stalled and complex work to move ahead despite opposition.
Barriers to accessing rural paediatric speech pathology services: Health care consumers’ perspectives
Authors: O'Callaghan Anna M. , McAllister Lindy , Wilson Linda 
Published: June 2005

AbstractObjective:  An investigation of consumers’ perceived barriers to access paediatric speech pathology services. Design:  Self‐administered, mail‐out questionnaire. Setting:  Rural and remote New South Wales (NSW). Subjects:  Three hundred and twenty‐nine members of the NSW branch of the Isolated Children's and Parents’ Association. Results:  Consumers living in rural and remote areas experience a number of barriers that affected their ability to access speech pathology services. These barriers include the lack, and limited choice, of speech pathologists in rural areas; long distances to travel to access services, expensive travel costs, lack of public transport; poor awareness of speech pathology services; and delays in treatment due to waiting lists. Conclusion:  Barriers to access paediatric speech pathology services limit rural and remote consumers’ usage of health services, regardless of need, indicating a possible inequity if compared to larger, more accessible urban areas.
A strategy to increase the palliative care capacity of rural primary health care providers
Authors: Reymond Liz , Charles Margaret , Israel Fiona , Read Trish , Treston Pat 
Published: June 2005

AbstractObjective:  To pilot and evaluate an intervention aimed at increasing the palliative care capacity of primary health care providers in rural and remote communities. Design:  Pre‐ and post‐workshop, and three months follow‐up questionnaires. Setting:  Four locations in Far North Queensland. Subjects:  One hundred and forty‐nine primary health care providers ranging from personal care workers to general practitioners (GPs). Interventions:  Fourteen workshops were conducted. These were tailored to local palliative case loads facilitated by a specialist palliative care team from the Mt Olivet Hospice Service. Workshop content consisted of introductory didactic teaching based on participant‐nominated topics, small group case management discussions and a session devoted to psychosocial and counselling inputs. Main outcome measures:  Cost, GP reach, evaluation of educational and clinical objectives. Results:  Average cost per participant – excluding wages – was $271. Thirty‐two per cent of local GPs attended the workshops and 93.2% of participants reported that the workshops had satisfied their educational learning objectives. Evaluation of GP clinical performance revealed significant improvements in confidence regarding palliative care knowledge and skill levels as well as the management of common palliative symptoms. Evaluation of other primary health care providers’ clinical performance showed significant improvements in skills, management and rated knowledge. Conclusions:  This intervention is relatively inexpensive, has reasonable reach and is effective as measured by educational and clinical outcomes.
Reducing unmet needs: A prevocational medical training program in public health medicine and primary health care in remote Australia
Authors: Mak Donna B. , Plant Aileen J. 
Published: June 2005

AbstractObjectives:  To describe the development and implementation of a prevocational medical training program in public health medicine and primary health care in remote Australia and to evaluate the program's adherence to adult learning principles. Methods:  Reports, funding applications and other relevant material relating to the program were reviewed to document learning objectives, and teaching and program implementation strategies. Results:  The 24‐week program employs two prevocational medical practitioners each year and comprises four weeks at Fremantle Hospital's sexual health clinic followed by 20 weeks in the Kimberley. Curriculum objectives include clinical and public health aspects of sexually transmitted infection management, immunisation, clinical audit and quality improvement, primary health care in remote Aboriginal communities, oral and written presentation skills and working as part of an interdisciplinary team. Teaching strategies used were in accordance with adult learning principles. Conclusions:  Prevocational medical training in public health medicine and primary health care in remote Australia is achievable and reduces current gaps in prevocational medical education.
Diversity decreases invasion via both sampling and complementarity effects
Authors: Fargione Joseph E. , Tilman David 
Published: June 2005

AbstractComplementarity and sampling effects may both contribute to increased invasion resistance at higher diversity. We measured plant invader biomass across a long‐term experimental plant diversity gradient. Invader species’ biomass was inhibited in more diverse plots, largely because of the presence of strongly competitive C4 bunchgrasses, consistent with a sampling effect. Invader biomass was negatively correlated with resident root biomass, and positively correlated with soil nitrate concentrations, suggesting that competition for nitrogen limited invader success. Resident root biomass increased and soil nitrate concentrations decreased with the presence of C4 grasses and also across the diversity gradient, suggesting that diverse plots are more competitive because of the presence of C4 grasses. In addition to this evidence for a sampling effect, we also found evidence for a complementarity effect. Specifically, the percentage of plots that had lower invader biomass than did the best resident monoculture (i.e. that had invader ‘underyielding’) increased across the species richness gradient. This pattern cannot be explained by a sampling effect and is a unique signature of complementarity effects. Our results demonstrate the importance of multiple mechanisms by which diversity can increase invasion resistance.
Facilitative interactions rather than resource partitioning drive diversity‐functioning relationships in laboratory fungal communities
Authors: Tiunov Alexei V. , Scheu Stefan 
Published: June 2005

AbstractWe manipulated the number of saprotrophic fungi in either a complex multi‐resource substratum (sterilized forest soil), or a single‐resource substratum (powdered cellulose). The substrates were inoculated with five common species of soil fungi in all possible combinations (from monocultures to five species in combination). In both substrates, the rate of organic matter decomposition was positively associated with species richness. The effect of fungal diversity was much stronger in the uniform single‐resource substrate (r2 = 0.455,P < 0.0001) than in soil (r2 = 0.154,P < 0.0001). The results document that species richness of microbial decomposers strongly affects decomposition processes, at least at the species poor end of the diversity gradient. Both, ‘sampling effect’ and ‘species complementarity effect’ contributed to the community response with the latter being much more pronounced in uniform substrate than in soil. This indicates that facilitative interactions are more important than resource partitioning for positive effects of species richness.
The importance of plant relatedness for host utilization among phytophagous insects
Authors: Ødegaard Frode , Diserud Ola H. , Østbye Kjartan 
Published: June 2005

AbstractCurrent methods for measuring similarity among phytophagous insect communities fail to consider the phylogenetic relationship between host plants. We analysed this relation based on 3580 host observations of 1174 beetle species associated with 100 species of angiosperms in two different forest types in Panama. We quantified the significance of genetic distance as well as taxonomic rank among angiosperms in relation to species overlap in beetle assemblages. A logarithmic model describing the decrease in beetle species similarity between host‐plant species of increasing phylogenetic distance explains 35% of the variation. Applied to taxonomic rank categories the results imply that except for the ancient branching of monocots from dicots, only adaptive radiations of plants on the family and genus level are important for host utilization among phytophagous beetles. These findings enable improvements in estimating host specificity and species richness through correction for phylogenetic relatedness between hosts and consideration of the host‐specific fauna associated with monocots.
Nitrogen/phosphorus leaf stoichiometry and the scaling of plant growth
Authors: Niklas Karl J. , Owens Thomas , Reich Peter B. , Cobb Edward D. 
Published: June 2005

AbstractWe adopted previous N : P stoichiometric models for zooplankton relative growth to predict the relative growth rates of the leaves μL of vascular plants assuming that annual leaf growth in dry mass is dictated by how leaf nitrogen NL is allocated to leaf proteins and how leaf phosphorus PL is allocated to rRNA. This model is simplified provided that NL scales as some power function of PL across the leaves of different species. This approach successfully predicted the μL of 131 species of vascular plants based on the observation that, across these species, NL scaled, on average, as the 3/4 power of PL, i.e. NL ∝ P. When juxtaposed with prior allometric theory and observations, our findings suggest that a transformation in N : P stoichiometry occurs when the plant body undergoes a transition from primary to secondary growth.