BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles via MedWorm.com

Maternal postnatal depression and child growth: a European Cohort study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: We conclude that a high maternal postnatal depression score does not have any major effects on offspring growth in high income countries. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Variations in the prevalence of point (pre)hypertension in a Nigerian school-going adolescent population living in a semi-urban and an urban area

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The prevalence of both disorders is considerably high in the studied populations. Urgent pediatric public health action is needed to address the situation. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

A new method to analyse the pace of child development: Cox regression validated by a bootstrap resampling procedure

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Background: Various perinatal factors influencing neuromotor development are known from cross sectional studies. Factors influencing the age at which distinct abilities are acquired are uncertain. We hypothesized that the Cox regression model might identify these factors. Methods: Neonates treated at Aachen University Hospital in 2000/2001 were identified retrospectively (n=796). Outcome data, based on a structured interview, were available from 466 children, as were perinatal data. Factors possibly related to outcome were identified by bootstrap selection and then included into a multivariate Cox regression model. To evaluate if the parental assessment might change with the time elapsed since birth we studied five age cohorts of 163 normally developed children. Results: Birth weight, gest...

The prevalence of obesity in children with autism: a secondary data analysis using nationally representative data from the National Survey of Children's Health

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Based on US nationally representative data, children with autism have a prevalence of obesity at least as high as children overall. These findings suggest that additional research is warranted to understand better the factors that influence the development of obesity in this population of children. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Gastroesophageal reflux symptoms in infants in a rural population: longitudinal data over the first six months

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux as measured by the I-GERQ-R decrease with age in the first six months of life in otherwise healthy infants; however the I-GERQ-R may have difficulty differentiating gastroesophageal reflux disease from colic in those under 3 months of age. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Mechanics of sucking: comparison between bottle feeding and breastfeeding

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The mechanics of sucking in mixed feeding lied outside the range of equivalence comparing bottle feeding with breastfeeding, although differences were small. Children with mixed feeding would mix both types of sucking movements (breastfeeding and bottle feeding) during the learning stage and adopt their own pattern. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Do pneumococcal conjugate vaccines provide any cross-protection against serotype 19A?

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

DiscussionWe systematically assessed the clinical efficacy and effectiveness of 19F-containing vaccines against 19A disease or nasopharyngeal carriage by searching English-language articles in the electronic databases PubMed, Current contents, Scopus, and Embase from 1985 to 2008. The vaccine efficacy and effectiveness point estimates were consistently positive for modest protection against 19A IPD and acute otitis media (AOM). However, statistical significance was not reached in any individual study. No consistent impact of 7vCRM on 19A nasopharyngeal colonization could be detected. These findings are discussed in context of immunogenicity analyses indicating that 7vCRM induces functionally active anti-19A antibodies after the booster dose, and that other 19F-containing vaccine formulatio...

Factors associated with breastfeeding cessation in nursing mothers in a peer support programme in Eastern Lancashire

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: In this study ethnicity, parity and in-hospital infant feeding practices remained independent predictors of breastfeeding cessation in this peer support setting. However other recognised predictors such as marital status, mode of delivery, timing of breastfeeding initiation and socio-economic deprivation were not found to be associated with breastfeeding cessation. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Racial differences in central adiposity in a longitudinal cohort of black and white adolescent females

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Black females had significantly steeper increases in waist circumference over adolescence than white females. After adjusting for BMI and age at menarche, however, the annual increase in waist circumference for black females was significantly shallower than for their white peers. These data suggest racial differences in the deposition of fat over the adolescent period. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Clinical profile and treatment of infantile spasms using vigabatrin and ACTH - a developing country perspective

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Vigabatrin and ACTH showed no significant difference in the initial treatment of infantile spasms. However, patients receiving ACTH were 1.2 times more likely to relapse as compared to the patients receiving Vigabatrin when considering monotherapy. We suggest that Vigabatrin should be the initial drug of choice in patients presenting with infantile spasms. However, larger studies from developing countries are required to validate the therapeutic trends observed in this study. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Significant weight loss in breastfed term infants readmitted for hyperbilirubinemia

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100

The objective of this study was to describe the association between total serum bilirubin (TSB) levels and weight loss in healthy term infants readmitted for hyperbilirubinemia after birth hospitalization. Methods: We reviewed medical records of breastfed term infants who received phototherapy according to TSB levels readmitted to Caja Petrolera de Salud Clinic in La Paz, Bolivia during January 2005 through October 2008. Results: Seventy-nine infants were studied (64.6% were males). The hyperbilirubinemia readmission rate was 5% among breastfed infants. Term infants were readmitted at a median age of 4 days. Mean TSB level was 18.6+/-3 mg/dL. Thirty (38%) had significant weight loss. A weak correlation between TSB levels and percent of weight loss was identified (r=0.20; p 20 mg/dL) was no...

Economic and other barriers to adopting recommendations to prevent childhood obesity: results of a focus group study with parents

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Parents identify numerous barriers to adopting obesity prevention recommendations, most notably child and family preferences and resistance to change, but also economic barriers. Intervention programs should consider the context of family priorities and how to overcome barriers and make use of relevant facilitators during program development. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Adolescent type 1 Diabetes cardio-renal Intervention Trial (AdDIT)

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100

DiscussionAdDIT will provide important data on the potential renal and cardiovascular protective effects of ACEI and statins in high-risk adolescents. Long-term follow-up of the randomized subjects will provide direct evidence of disease outcomes, in addition to the data on early surrogate measures of DN and CVD. Follow up of non-randomized low-risk subjects will determine the potential impact of intervention on DN and CVD. AdDIT will help to determine whether, in addition to encouraging young people to achieve good glycaemic control, pharmacological cardio-renal protection should also be implemented.EudraCT Number: 2007-001039-72Trial Registration Number: ISRCTN91419926 (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Motor ability in children treated for idiopathic clubfoot. A controlled pilot study.

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Background: To study motor ability at seven years of age in children treated for idiopathic clubfoot and its relation to clubfoot laterality, foot status and the amount of surgery performed. Methods: Twenty children (mean age 7.5 years, SD 3.2 months) from a consecutive birth cohort from our hospital catchments area (300.000 inhabitants from southern Sweden) were assessed with the Movement Assessment Battery for Children (MABC) and the Clubfoot Assessment Protocol (CAP). Results: Compared to typically developing children an increased prevalence of motor impairment was found regarding both the total score for MABC (p (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

A systematic review of the reporting of Data Monitoring Committees roles, interim analysis and early termination in pediatric clinical trials

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Reporting on DMC composition and roles, on interim analysis results and on early termination of pediatric trials is incomplete and heterogeneous. We propose a minimal set of reporting parameters that will allow the reader to assess the validity of trial results. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Co-bedding as a comfort measure for twins undergoing painful procedures(CComForT study)

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100

DiscussionIf twin contact while co-bedding is determined to have a comforting effect for painful procedures, then changes in current neonatal care practices to include co-bedding may be an inexpensive, non invasive method to help maintain physiologic stability and decrease the long term psychological impact of procedural pain in this high risk population. Knowledge obtained from this study will also add to existing theoretical models with respect to the exact mechanism of comfort through touch.Trial registration: NCT00917631 (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

A survey on knowledge and self-reported formula handling practices of parents and child care workers in Palermo, Italy

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The results of the study reveal that parents and child care workers are generally unaware that powdered formulas may contain viable microorganisms. However, child care workers consistently chose safer options than parents when answering the questions about adherence to hygienic practices.At present it seems unfeasible to produce sterile PIF, but the risk of growth of hazardous organisms in formula at the time of administration should be minimized by promoting safer behaviours among caregivers to infants in both institutional settings and home. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Development and tracking of central patterns of subcutaneous fat of rural South African youth: Ellisras longitudinal study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Background: Individuals grow and accumulate central patterns of body fat into the diseases they will suffer from as older adults. The need to elicit the development and tracking of central patterns of body fat from younger age into adolescent remains to be explored.MethodSkinfolds measurements were done according to the standard procedures in the Ellisras Longitudinal Growth and Health Study. In total, 2,225 children--550 preschool and 1,675 primary school--aged 3-10 years (birth cohorts 1993 to 1986) were enrolled at baseline in 1996 and followed through out the eight-year periodic surveys. In 2003, 1,771 children--489 preschool and 1,282 primary school--were still in the study. Results: The development of triceps, biceps, suprailiac and suscapular skinfolds of Ellisras girls were signifi...

Improving the outcome of infants born at less than 30 weeks of gestation - a randomized controlled trial of preventative care at home

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Background: Early developmental interventions to prevent the high rate of neurodevelopmental problems in very preterm children, including cognitive, motor and behavioral impairments, are urgently needed. These interventions should be multi-faceted and include modules for caregivers given their high rates of mental health problems.Method/ Design: We have designed a randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of a preventative care program delivered at home over the first 12 months of life for infants born very preterm ( (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Clinical parameters predicting failure of empirical antibacterial therapy in early onset neonatal sepsis, identified by classification and regression tree analysis

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Background: About 10-20% of neonates with suspected or proven early onset sepsis (EOS) fail on the empiric antibiotic regimen of ampicillin or penicillin and gentamicin.AimWe aimed to identify clinical and laboratory markers associated with empiric antibiotic treatment failure in neonates with suspected EOS. Methods: Maternal and early neonatal characteristics predicting failure of empiric antibiotic treatment were identified by univariate logistic regression analysis from a prospective database of 283 neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit within 72 hours of life and requiring antibiotic therapy with penicillin or ampicillin and gentamicin. Variables, identified as significant by univariate logistic regression analysis, were entered into stepwise multiple logistic regression (M...

Late preterm birth is a risk factor for growth faltering in early childhood: a cohort study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Late preterm children grow faster than children born at term, but they are at increased risk of underweight and stunting in the first two years of life. Failure to thrive in the first two years may put them at increased risk of future occurrences of serious morbidity in late childhood and of chronic disease development in adult life. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

"Why do paediatricians prescribe antibiotics? Results of an Italian regional project"

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: A wide gap between perceived and real determinants of antibiotic prescription exists. This can promote antibiotic overuse. Inadequate parental knowledge can also induce inappropriate prescription. The value of this study is that it simultaneously explored all determinants of antimicrobial prescribing in an entire region involving both professionals and parents. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Health related quality of life of Dutch children: psychometric properties of the PedsQL in the Netherlands

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The Dutch version of the PedsQL has adequate psychometric properties and can be used as a health related quality of life instrument in paediatric research in the Netherlands. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

The relationship of bottle feeding and other sucking behaviors with speech disorder in Patagonian preschoolers

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: The results suggest extended use of sucking outside of breast-feeding may have detrimental effects on speech development in young children (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Impact of 4.0% chlorhexidine cleansing of the umbilical cord on mortality and omphalitis among newborns of Sylhet, Bangladesh: design of a community-based cluster randomized trial

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

DiscussionDue to report in early 2010, the Projahnmo Chlorhexidine Study examines the impact of multiple or single chlorhexidine cleansing of the cord on neonatal mortality and omphalitis among newborns of rural Sylhet District, Bangladesh. The results of this trial will be interpreted in conjunction with a similarly designed trial previously conducted in Nepal, and will have implications for policy guidelines for optimal cord care of newborns in low resource settings in Asia. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Evaluation of seasonal patterns of Kawasaki Syndrome- and rotavirus-associated Hospitalizations in California and New York, 2000-2005

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The strong winter seasonal pattern of rotavirus clearly differed from the year-round pattern of KS hospitalizations. While the present study cannot completely rule out rotavirus as having a role in the development of KS, other agents must be involved in the etiology of KS. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Prevalence and risk factors for stunting and severe stunting among under-fives in North Maluku province of Indonesia

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Programmes aimed at improving chronic malnutrition in North Maluku province of Indonesia should focus on children under two years of age, of male sex and from families of low socioeconomic status. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

ADEPT - Abnormal Doppler Enteral Prescription Trial

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

DiscussionThere is limited evidence from randomised controlled trials on which to base decisions regarding feeding policy in high risk preterm infants. This multicentre trial will help to guide clinical practice and may also provide pointers for future research.Trial registrationCurrent Controlled Trials ISRCTN: 87351483 (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Experiences of integrated management of childhood illness(IMCI) training and implementation in South Africa; a qualitative evaluation of the IMCI case management training course

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The IMCI training course was reported to be an effective method of acquiring skills, but more time is required, either during the course, or with follow-up, to improve IMCI implementation. Innovative solutions may be required to ensure that adequate skills are acquired and maintained. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Bone and body composition analyzed by Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) in clinical and nutritional evaluation of young patients with Cystic Fibrosis: a cross-sectional study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: a significant BMD reduction can be present early in CF children and adolescents. A careful follow up of bone status is required starting in childhood. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Paediatric HIV management at primary care level: an evaluation of the integrated management of childhood illness (IMCI) guidelines for HIV

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The HIV algorithm is a valid tool for identifying HIV infected and exposed children when correctly and comprehensively implemented. However it is not being used by IMCI trained health workers in routine practise, leading to a failure to implement life saving interventions. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Predictors of the early introduction of solid foods in infants: results of a cohort study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Background: The early introduction of solid foods before 4 months of age has been associated with an increased risk of diarrhoea in infancy and a greater risk of wheeze and increased percentage body fat and weight in childhood. The purpose of this study was to identify the level of compliance with national recommendations related to the timing of the introduction of solid foods and to describe the maternal and infant characteristics associated with the timing of the introduction of solids. Methods: Subjects were 519 participants in the second longitudinal Perth Infant Feeding Study (PIFS II) recruited from two maternity hospitals in Perth, Western Australia in 2002/3. Data collected prior to, or shortly after discharge from hospital, and at 4, 10, 16, 22, 32, 40 and 52 weeks postpartum inc...

Maximising engagement, motivation and long term change in a Structured Intensive Education Programme in Diabetes for children, young people and their families: Child and Adolescent Structured Competencies Approach to Diabetes Education (CASCADE)

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

DiscussionThe trial will be run by independent research and service delivery teams and supervised by a trial steering committee. A data monitoring and ethics committee has been put in place to monitor the trial and recommend stopping/continuation according to a Peto-Haybittle rule. The trial will be conducted according to the principles of MRC Good Clinical Practice (GCP) Guidelines and CTRU Phase III Trial Standard Operating procedures.Trial RegistrationCurrent Controlled Trials ISRCTN52537669 (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Cross-sectional validity of the EQ-5D-Y as a generic health outcome instrument in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis in Germany

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The EQ-5D-Y can be considered a cross-sectional valid generic health outcome instrument which reflects differences in health according to the progression of the life-long chronic disease cystic fibrosis. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Excellent outcomes among HIV+ children on ART, but unacceptably high pre-ART mortality and losses to follow-up: a cohort study from Cambodia

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100

The objective of this study was to measure mortality occuring both pre-ART and during ART among HIV-positive children enrolled in two HIV-programs in Cambodia. Methods: Retrospective cohort study on 1168 HIV-positive children (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

The social determinants of child health: variations across health outcomes - a population-based cross-sectional analysis

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: There appears to be evidence of an income gradient for certain child health outcomes, even after controlling for other traditional measures of socioeconomic status. Our study also found evidence of an association between certain child health outcomes and potential mediating factors. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Quality of paediatric blood transfusions in two district hospitals in Tanzania: a cross-sectional hospital based study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Criteria for BT are not always fulfilled; time to initiate and complete the transfusion is often unacceptable long and monitoring of vital signs during BT is poor. Blood from the ZBB was often not available and BT often depended on local donors which implied lack of screening for hepatitis B and C. It is recommended that an external supervision system be established to monitor and evaluate the quality of BT performance in the laboratories as well as in wards. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Streptococcus pneumoniae Serotype 3 among Costa Rican Children with Otitis Media: clinical, epidemiological characteristics and antimicrobial resistance patterns

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 3 is an important pathogen in Costa Rican children with otitis media, especially in children older than 24 months of age (P=0.05). Most serotype 3 isolates were susceptible to penicillin, cephalosporins, macrolides and quinolones. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Prioritising neonatal medicines research: UK Medicines for Children Research Network scoping survey

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The research agenda for neonatal medicines can be informed by knowledge of current medicine use and the collective views of the neonatal community. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

The surged faradic stimulation to the pelvic floor muscles as an adjunct to the medical management in children with rectal prolapse

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: With use of faradic stimulation, even long-standing rectal prolapse can be fully cured. The follow up visit at 2 weeks is very important to gauge the likely success of this modality in treatment of patients with rectal prolapse. Those showing poor response at this stage may require alternative treatment or take a long time to get cured (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Supporting children to adhere to anti-retroviral therapy in urban Malawi: multi method insights

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In the era of rapid scale-up of treatment for children there is need for holistic support strategies that focus on the child, the caregiver and the health worker and which are situated within the reality of fragile health systems. The findings highlight the need for cost-free and less complex paediatric ART regimes and culturally appropriate tools to support children's adherence. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Long-term safety of Mometasone Furoate administered via a dry powder inhaler in children: Results of an open-label study comparing Mometasone Furoate with Beclomethasone Dipropionate in children with persistent asthma

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Both MF-DPI doses were well tolerated, with no unusual or unexpected adverse events or safety concerns, and had a similar adverse event profile to that of BDP-MDI 168 micrograms BID. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Analysis of circulating hem-endothelial marker RNA levels in preterm infants

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: These preliminary findings suggest that circulating RNA levels especially Tie2 and SCL decline with maturation and might relate to some preterm complication. Further prospective follow up of larger cohorts are required to establish this association. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Causes and differentials of childhood mortality in Iraq

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: In Iraq Under- five child mortality is one of the highest in the Middle East region; deaths during the neonatal period accounted for more than half of under-five children deaths highlighting an urgent need to introduce health interventions to improve essential neonatal care. Priority needs to be given to the prevention, early and effective treatment of neonatal conditions, diarrheal diseases, acute respiratory infections, and accidents. This study points to the need for further standardized assessments of under-5 mortality in Iraq. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Anthroposophic therapy for children with chronic disease: a two-year prospective cohort study in routine outpatient settings

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Background: Many children with chronic disease use complementary therapies. Anthroposophic treatment for paediatric chronic disease is provided by physicians and differs from conventional treatment in the use of special therapies (art therapy, eurythmy movement exercises, rhythmical massage therapy) and special medications. We studied clinical outcomes in children with chronic diseases under anthroposophic treatment in routine outpatient settings. Methods: In conjunction with a health benefit program, consecutive outpatients starting anthroposophic treatment for any chronic disease participated in a prospective cohort study. Main outcome was disease severity (Disease and Symptom Scores, physicians' and caregivers' assessment on numerical rating scales 0-10). Disease Score was documented af...

Reporting and methodologic quality of cochrane neonatal review group systematic reviews

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: The systematic reviews published in the CNRG are generally of good quality with minor flaws. However, efforts should be made to improve the quality of reports. Readers must continue to assess the quality of published reports on an individual basis prior to implementing the recommendations. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Anemia and growth failure among HIV-infected children in India: a retrospective analysis

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 04:00:00 +0100

Background: Anemia and poor nutrition have been previously described as independent risk factors for death among HIV-infected children. We sought to describe nutritional status, anemia burden and HIV disease correlates among infected children in India. Methods: We analyzed retrospective data from 248 HIV-infected children aged 1-12 years attending three outpatient clinics in South India (2004-2006). Standard WHO definitions were used for anemia, HIV staging and growth parameters. Statistical analysis included chi square, t tests, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results: The overall prevalence of anemia (defined as hemoglobin (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Microcytosis and possible early iron deficiency in paediatric inpatients: a retrospective audit

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 29 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Abnormal red cell indices that may indicate iron deficiency are frequently missed amongst paediatric inpatients. Medical staff education and the use of appropriate protocols or pathways could further improve detection and treatment rates in this setting. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Television viewing in Thai infants and toddlers: impacts to language development and parental perceptions

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 22 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Thai children commenced watching television at an early age and the amount of television viewing time increased by age. Most parents had positive perceptions to television viewing. The study found no association between time spent on television viewing (>/= 2 hours per day) and delayed language development at the age of 2 years. Gender (male) was the only variable associated with delayed language development. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Elective high-frequency oscillatory ventilation in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome: an individual patient data meta-analysis.

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Sat, 16 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100

DiscussionAn international collaborative group, the PreVILIG Collaboration (Prevention of Ventilator Induced Lung Injury Group), has been formed with the investigators of the original randomized trials to conduct this systematic review. This is the first individual patient data meta-analysis in the field of neonatology. Final results are expected to be available by the end of 2009. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Antibiotic use among 8-month-old children in Malmo, Sweden, in relation to child characteristics and parental sociodemographic, psychosocial and lifestyle factors

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 08 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: There were clear associations between parental factors such as sociodemographic, psychosocial and lifestyle factors and antibiotic use at this early stage of life. Several characteristics of the child also affected the use of antibiotics. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Diagnosis of growth hormone (GH) deficiency: comparison of pituitary stalk interruption syndrome and transient GH deficiency

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 06 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100

Background: Most patients with childhood non-organic growth hormone (GH) deficiency (GHD) produce a normal GH peak as young adults. Our objectives were to better define this transient GHD and evaluate the factors influencing the growth response of patients with pituitary stalk interruption syndrome (PSIS). Methods: We studied 72 prepubertal patients with a GH peak (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Pediatricians' perspectives on the impact of MRSA in primary care: a qualitative study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: CA-MRSA has influenced the presentation and treatment of SSTIs especially in terms of case numbers and recurrences. Barriers to providing recommended therapies can be addressed through improved dissemination of treatment guidelines and epidemiologic data. Studies are urgently needed to improve the evidence-base for treatment and prevention strategies. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Pattern of injury mortality by age-group in children aged 0-14 years in Scotland, 2002-2006, and its implications for prevention

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100

This study examines the recent pattern of childhood mortality from injury by age-group in Scotland and considers its implications for prevention. Methods: Routine mortality data for the period 2002-2006 were obtained from the General Register Office for Scotland and were analysed in terms of number of deaths, mean annual mortality rates per 100,000 population, leading causes of death, and causes of injury death. Mid-year population estimates were used as the denominator. Chi-square tests were used to determine statistical significance. Results: 186 children aged 0-14 died from an injury in Scotland during 2002-06 (mortality rate 4.3 per 100,000). Injuries were the leading cause of death in 1-14, 5-9 and 10-14 year-olds (causing 25%, 29% and 32% of all deaths respectively). The leading indi...

Prevalence of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) in hospitalized children: a point prevalence study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Our results would indicate a high risk for sepsis devlopment in children with SIRS. Early SIRS diagnosis and awareness of risk of developing sepsis could change the medical approach to the patient in everyday clinical practice, eventually leading to early, goal-directed therapy for sepsis. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Childhood craniopharyngioma: greater hypothalamic involvement before surgery is associated with higher homeostasis model insulin resistance index

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100

Background: Obesity seems to be linked to the hypothalamic involvement in craniopharyngioma. We evaluated the pre-surgery relationship between the degree of this involvement on magnetic resonance imaging and insulin resistance, as evaluated by the homeostasis model insulin resistance index (HOMA). As insulin-like growth factor 1, leptin, soluble leptin receptor (sOB-R) and ghrelin may also be involved, we compared their plasma concentrations and their link to weight change. Methods: 27 children with craniopharyngioma were classified as either grade 0 (n=7, no hypothalamic involvement), grade 1 (n=8, compression without involvement), or grade 2 (n=12, severe involvement). Results: Despite having similar body mass indexes (BMI), the grade 2 patients had higher glucose, insulin and HOMA befor...

Early growth patterns and cardiometabolic function at the age of 5 in a multiethnic birth cohort: the ABCD study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 04:00:00 +0100

This study will be one of the first population-based prospective cohort studies to address the association between measures of both prenatal and postnatal growth and various components of cardiovascular and metabolic function. Specific attention is paid to the timing of acceleration in growth and its potential association with the outcome variables. Importantly, the longitudinal design of this study gives us the opportunity to gain more insight into growth trajectories associated with adverse outcomes in later life. If identified as an independent risk factor, this provides further basis for the hypothesis that accelerated growth during the first years of life is a modifiable factor for the prevention of cardiovascular and metabolic disorders in later life. Moreover, identification of spec...

Study Protocol Effect of the consumption of a fermented dairy product containing Bifidobacterium lactis DN-173 010 on constipation in childhood: a multicentre randomised controlled trial (NTRTC: 1571)

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 04:00:00 +0100

Background: Constipation is a frustrating symptom affecting 3% of children worldwide. Randomised controlled trials show that both polyethylene glycol and lactulose are effective in increasing defecation frequency in children with constipation. However, in 30-50%, these children reported abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence, diarrhoea, nausea and bad taste of the medication. Two recent studies have shown that the fermented dairy product containing Bifidobacterium lactis strain DN-173 010 is effective in increasing stool frequency in constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome patients with a defecation frequency < 3/week and in constipated women with a defecation frequency < 3/week. Goal of this study is to determine whether this fermented dairy product is effective in the treatment o...

The correlation and level of agreement between end-tidal and blood gas pCO2 in children with respiratory distress: a retrospective analysis

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 04:00:00 +0100

Background: To investigate the correlation and level of agreement between end-tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2) and blood gas pCO2 in non-intubated children with moderate to severe respiratory distress. Methods: Retrospective study of patients admitted to an intermediate care unit (InCU) at a tertiary care center over a 20-month period with moderate to severe respiratory distress secondary to asthma, bronchiolitis, or pneumonia. Patients with venous pCO2 (vpCO2) and EtCO2 measurements within 10 minutes of each other were eligible for inclusion. Patients with cardiac disease, chronic pulmonary disease, poor tissue perfusion, or metabolic abnormalities were excluded. Results: Eighty EtCO2-vpCO2 paired values were available from 62 patients. The mean +/-SD for EtCO2 and vpCO2 was 35.7 +/-10.1 mmH...

Identification and characteristics of vaccine refusers

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Without enhancements to immunization registries, identifying children with immunization refusal would be time consuming. Since communities where refusers live are well educated, interventions should target these communities to communicate vaccine adverse events and consequences of vaccine preventable diseases. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Factors determining the outcome of children hospitalized with severe pneumonia

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Background: Pneumonia is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in under fives. We carried out a comprehensive study to identify factors influencing both mortality and morbidity for children less than 5 years of age hospitalized with severe pneumonia. Methods: 200 hospitalized children aged 2-60 months with World Health Organization (WHO) defined severe pneumonia were enrolled in the study. The children were managed using a standard protocol. They were closely followed up for need for change in antibiotics, prolonged hospital stay, need for mechanical ventilation and mortality. Data on the factors influencing the outcome were collected. Results: Of 200 children enrolled in the study, 113 (56.5%) needed a change in antibiotics, 102 (51%) stayed for more than 5 days in the h...

The impact of rotavirus gastroenteritis on the family

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: A better understanding of how rotavirus gastroenteritis impacts the family can help healthcare providers ease parental fears and advise them on the characteristics of this illness, practices to prevent infection, and the optimal care of an affected child. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Comparison of broad range 16S rDNA PCR and conventional blood culture for diagnosis of sepsis in the newborn: a case control study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: There is a need for PCR as a method to quickly point out the infants with sepsis. However, uncertainty about a bacterial cause of sepsis was not reduced by the PCR result, reflecting that methodological improvements are required in order for DNA detection to replace or supplement traditional blood culture in diagnosis of bacterial sepsis. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Care for Amish and Mennonite children with cystic fibrosis: a case series

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Amish and Mennonite families seeking care for cystic fibrosis may choose to utilize modern medical therapies for their children, with resultant significant improvement in outcome. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

"There's nothing I can't do: I just put my mind to it and I can do it": A qualitative analysis of how children with chronic disease and their parents account for and manage physical activity

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that for these children and young people, having a chronic disease was not perceived as a barrier to participation in organised sport and recreational activities. They were physically active and perceived themselves to be no different from their peers. Their positive beliefs were shared by their parents and the level of participation described was enabled by the high level of parental support and background planning involved in managing their child's health care needs. care needs. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Implementation of a comprehensive program including psycho-social and treatment literacy activities to improve adherence to HIV care and treatment for a pediatric population in Kenya

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Our model of pediatric HIV/AIDS care, focused on a child-centered approach with inclusion of caregivers and extended family, addressed the main factors influencing treatment adherence. It appeared to produce good results and is replicable in resource-limited settings. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Cerebral oxygenation responses during kangaroo care in low birth weight infants

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: KC intervention appears to have influence on cerebral hemodynamics as well as cardiorespiratory parameters. The results of rSO2 and HR might be associated with quiet sleep states. The results of this study may indicate the contribution of KC intervention to the activation of central nervous system and brain function. Further study is needed to determine the underlying physiology responsible for these differences. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Perinatal complications and socio-economic differences in cerebral palsy in Sweden – a national cohort study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: This study suggests that there is a continuous socio-economic gradient for CP in Sweden. Further studies in more complete populations of children with cerebral palsy are needed to confirm this. Perinatal complications seem to mediate some of this gradient. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Risk factors for methamphetamine use in youth: a systematic review

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Among low-risk youth, a history of engaging in a variety of risky behaviors was significantly associated with MA use. A history of a psychiatric disorder was a risk factor for MA for both low- and high-risk youth. Family environment was also associated with MA use. Many of the included studies were cross-sectional making it difficult to assess causation. Future research should utilize prospective study designs so that temporal relationships between risk factors and MA use can be established. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Point-of-Admission Hypothermia among High-Risk Nigerian Newborns

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Background: Facilities which manage high-risk babies should frequently assess the burden of hypothermia and strive to reduce the incidence.ObjectiveTo determine the incidence and outcome of point-of-admission hypothermia among hospitalized babies. Methods: The axillary temperatures of consecutive admissions into a Nigerian Newborn Unit were recorded. Temperature (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Success with antiretroviral treatment for children in Kigali, Rwanda: experience with health center/nurse-based care

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: This report suggests that providing ARVs to children in a health center/nurse-based program is both feasible and very effective. Adequate numbers and training of nursing staff and an emphasis on the psychosocial needs of caregivers and children have been key elements for the successful scaling-up of ARVs at this level of the health system. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Negative exploration for pyloric stenosis- Is it preventable?

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Background: The diagnosis of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS), although traditionally clinical, is now increasingly dependent on radiological corroboration. The rate of negative exploration in IHPS has been reported as 4%. The purpose of our study was to look at elements of supportive clinical evidence leading to positive diagnosis, and to review these with respect to misdiagnosed cases undergoing negative exploration. Methods: All infants undergoing surgical exploration for IHPS between January 2000 and December 2004 were retrospectively analysed with regard to clinical symptoms, examination findings, investigations and operative findings. Results: During the study period, 343 explorations were performed with a presumptive diagnosis of IHPS. Of these, 219 infants (64%) had...

Adherence to antiretroviral therapy in young children in Cape Town, South Africa, measured by medication return and caregiver self-report: a prospective cohort study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100

This study describes the utility of different measures of adherence in detecting lapses in infants and young children in Cape Town, South Africa. Methods: In a prospective cohort of 122 HIV-infected children commenced on ART, adherence was measured monthly during the first year of treatment by medication return (MR) for both syrups and tablets/capsules. A questionnaire was administered to caregivers after 3 months of treatment to assess experience with giving medication and self-reported adherence. Viral and immune response to treatment were assessed at the end of one year and associations with measured adherence determined. Results: Medication was returned for 115/122 (94%) children with median age (IQR) of 37 (16 – 61) months. Ninety-one (79%) children achieved annual average MR adhere...

Prevalence of insulin resistance and its association with metabolic syndrome criteria among Bolivian children and adolescents with obesity

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Metabolic syndrome has a prevalence of 36% in children and adolescent population in the study. Insulin resistance was very common among children with obesity with a significant association with high blood pressure and high triglycerides presence. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Selecting short-statured children needing growth hormone testing: Derivation and validation of a clinical decision rule

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: We have derived and performed an internal validation of a highly sensitive decision rule that could safely help to avoid more than 2/3 of the unnecessary GH tests. External validation of this rule is needed before any application. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Cost per case or total cost? The potential of prevention of hand injuries in young children – Retrospective and prospective studies

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: The costs per hand injury for children were lower compared to adults due to both lower health-care costs and to the fact that parents had comparatively short periods of absence from work. Frequent simple fingertip injuries and rare complex injuries induce high costs for society. Such costs should be related to costs for prevention of these injuries. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

The usefulness of growth hormone treatment for psychological status in young adult survivors of childhood leukaemia: an open-label study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Background: To reduce the risk of brain damage children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) are nowadays mainly treated with intrathecal chemotherapy (ITC) instead of central nervous system (CNS) radiation therapy (CRT) to prevent CNS relapse. However, chemotherapy may also lead to cognitive deficits. As growth hormone deficiency (GHD) or impaired growth hormone secretion are frequently found in ALL patients treated with cranial radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy, we hypothesized that GH therapy may reduce cognitive deficits in these patients. Methods: Twenty young adult survivors of childhood ALL with reduced bone mineral density ( (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Placental Determinants of Fetal Growth: Identification of Key Factors in the Insulin-Like Growth Factor and Cytokine Systems using Artificial Neural Networks.

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: These results suggest that further research in humans should focus on these biochemical data. Furthermore, this study offered a critical revision of previous studies. The understanding of this system biology is relevant to the development of future therapeutical interventions possibly aiming at reducing IL-6 and IGFBP-2 concentrations preserving IGF bioactivity in both placenta and fetus. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

HIV prevalence in severely malnourished children admitted to nutrition rehabilitation units in Malawi: Geographical & seasonal variations a cross-sectional study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 21 May 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of HIV infection in severely malnourished Malawian children attending NRUs with children in urban areas most likely to be infected. Testing for HIV is accepted by their carers in both urban and rural areas. NRUs could act as entry points to HIV treatment and support programmes for affected children and families. Recognition of wide geographical variations in childhood HIV prevalence will ensure that limited resources are initially targeted to areas of highest need.These findings may have implications for the other countries with similar patterns of childhood illness and food insecurity. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

The TOBY Study Whole body hypothermia for the treatment of perinatal asphyxial encephalopathy:a randomised controlled trial.

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Background: A hypoxic-ischaemic insult occurring around the time of birth may result in an encephalopathic state characterised by the need for resuscitation at birth, neurological depression, seizures and electroencephalographic abnormalities. There is an increasing risk of death or neurodevelopmental abnormalities with more severe encephalopathy. Current management consists of maintaining physiological parameters within the normal range and treating seizures with anticonvulsants. Studies in adult and newborn animals have shown that a reduction of body temperature of 3-4 degrees celsius after cerebral insults is associated with improved histological and behavioral outcome. Pilot studies in infants with encephalopathy of head cooling combined with mild whole body hypothermia and of moderate...

Acute-phase reactants after paediatric cardiac arrest. Procalcitonin as marker of immediate outcome

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Measurement of PCT during the first 24 hours after paediatric cardiac arrest could serve as marker of mortality. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Anthropometric surrogates to identify low birth weight Nepalese newborns: a hospital-based study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Background: In Nepal, more than 90% of the deliveries take place at home where birth weight is often not recorded. In developing countries, low birth weight (LBW, (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Kangaroo mother care diminishes pain from heel lance in very preterm neonates: A crossover trial

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Background: Skin-to-skin contact, or kangaroo mother care (KMC) has been shown to be efficacious in diminishing pain response to heel lance in full term and moderately preterm neonates. The purpose of this study was to determine if KMC would also be efficacious in very preterm neonates. Methods: Preterm neonates (n=61) between 28 0/7 and 31 6/7 weeks gestational age in three Level III NICU's in Canada comprised the sample. A single-blind randomized crossover design was employed. In the experimental condition, the infant was held in KMC for 15 minutes prior to and throughout heel lance procedure. In the control condition, the infant was in prone position swaddled in a blanket in the incubator. The primary outcome was the Premature Infant Pain Profile (PIPP), which is comprised of three fac...

Effectiveness of physical therapy interventions for children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Due to limitations in methodological quality and variations in population, interventions and outcomes, mostly limited evidence on the effectiveness of most PT interventions is available through RCTs. Moderate evidence was found for some effectiveness of upper extremity training. Well-designed trials are needed especially for focused PT interventions. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Do Pediatricians Manage Influenza Differently than Internists?

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Background: Little is known about how pediatricians or internists manage influenza symptoms. Recent guidelines on antiviral prescribing by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) make almost no distinction between adults and children. Our objective was to describe how pediatricians in two large academic medical institutions manage influenza and compare them to internists. Methods: At the end of the 2003-4 influenza season, we conducted a cross sectional on-line survey of physician knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding rapid diagnostic testing and use of antiviral therapy for influenza at two large academic medical centers, one in Massachusetts and the other in Texas. We collected data on self-reported demographics, test use, prescribing practices, and beliefs about infl...

International survey of diagnostic services for children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Diagnostic services are concentrated in North America. Most responding clinics are using a multidisciplinary approach with neurobehavioural assessment as recommended in published guidelines. Agreement on diagnostic criteria would enable comparison of clinical and research data, and enhance FASD research particularly for intervention trials. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Infantile gastroesophageal reflux in a hospital setting

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: : Reflux is a common discharge diagnosis. Children who have primary reflux have longer than average hospital stays. About half had multiple admissions. Mothers of children with reflux are more likely to be less educated, receive public insurance, smoke, and be unemployed than the general female population in Western New York. Although African American children were disproportionately hospitalized, they were less likely to be diagnosed with reflux. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Parental and infant characteristics and childhood leukemia in Minnesota

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: We confirmed known risk factors for ALL: male sex, high birth weight, and white race. We have also provided data that supports an increased risk for AML following higher birth weights, and demonstrated an association with low Apgar scores. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Harmful lifestylesa clustering among sexually active in-school adolescents in Zambia

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: We identified a constellation of potentially harmful behaviours among adolescents in Zambia. Public health interventions aimed at reducing prevalence of sexual intercourse may be designed and implemented in a broader sense having recognized that sexually active adolescents may also be exposed to other problem behaviours. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

The incidence, aetiology and outcome of acute seizures in children admitted to a rural Kenyan district hospital

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100

Background: Acute seizures are a common cause of paediatric admissions to hospitals in resource poor countries and a risk factor for neurological and cognitive impairment and epilepsy. We determined the incidence, aetiological factors and the immediate outcome of seizures in a rural malaria endemic area in coastal Kenya. Methods: We recruited all children with and without seizures, aged 0-13 years and admitted to Kilifi District hospital over 2 years from 1st December 2004 to 30th November 2006. Only incident admissions from a defined area were included. Patients with epilepsy were excluded. The population denominator, the number of children in the community on 30th November 2005 (study midpoint), was modelled from a census data. Results: Seizures were reported in 900/4,921(18.3%) inciden...

Conditions for parents' participation in the care of their child in neonatal intensive care - a field study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The result shows that tangible strategies need to be developed in NICUs aimed at optimising conditions for parents to be present and involved in the care of their child. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

The role of peer communication in the socialization of adolescents' pain experiences: a qualitative investigation

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Little research has addressed how young people experience pain within the context of the psychosocial influences that dominate during adolescence. The findings provide some insight into the role of peer influences via verbal and non-verbal communication, in adolescents' pain experience. This exploratory study is a necessary first step in understanding the socialization of adolescents' pain experiences. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Conceptualizing childhood health problems using survey data: a comparison of key indicators

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100

This study compares these different indicators in terms of the prevalence rates elicited, and in terms of how the subgroups identified differ. Methods: Secondary data analyses used data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth, which surveyed a nationally representative sample of Canadian children (n=13,790). Descriptive analyses compared healthy children to those with health problems, as classified by any of the key indicators. Additional analyses examined differences between subgroups of children captured by a single indicator and those described as having health problems by multiple indicators. Results: This study demonstrates that children captured by any of the indicators had poorer health than healthy children, despite the fact that over half the sample (52.2%) wa...

Cerebral Palsy in a total population of 4-11 year olds in southern Sweden. Prevalence and distribution according to different CP classification systems

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The prevalence of CP and the subtype distribution did not differ from that reported in other studies, although the proportion of mild CP tended to be higher. The availability of a second opinion about the classification of CP/CP subtypes is necessary in order to keep a CP register valid, as well as an active search for undiagnosed CP among children with other impairments. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Homocysteine levels in preterm infants: is there an association with intraventricular hemorrhage? a prospective cohort study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In our population of preterm infants, there is no association between IVH and tHcy. Male gender, prenatal steroids and preeclampsia were associated with differences in tHcy levels. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Breastfeeding and childhood asthma: a six-year population-based cohort study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Our results suggest a U shape relation between duration of breastfeeding and risk of asthma with an optimal duration of 4 to 6 months. A true concave relation would explain the inconsistent results from the previous studies. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

The effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on oxidative stress, inflammation, and symptoms in children with autism: an open-label pilot study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In this prospective pilot study of children with autism, HBOT at a maximum pressure of 1.5 atm with up to 100% oxygen was safe and well tolerated. HBOT did not appreciably worsen oxidative stress and significantly decreased inflammation as measured by CRP levels. Parental observations support anecdotal accounts of improvement in several domains of autism. However, since this was an open-label study, definitive statements regarding the efficacy of HBOT for the treatment of individuals with autism must await results from double-blind, controlled trials. Trial Registration: clinicaltrials.gov NCT00324909 (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Young patients', parents', and survivors' communication preferences in paediatric oncology: results of online focus groups

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Young patients' preferences mainly concur with current guidelines of providing them with medical information and enabling their participation in medical decision making. Still, some variation in preferences was found, which faces health care providers with the task of balancing between the sometimes conflicting preferences of young cancer patients and their parents. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Intimate partner violence and infant morbidity: evidence of an association from a population-based study in eastern Uganda in 2003

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Our findings suggest that infant illnesses (fever, diarrhoea, cough and fast breathing) are associated with intimate partner violence, and provide insights into previous reports that have shown an association between intimate partner violence and child mortality, suggesting possible underlying mechanisms. Our findings also highlight the importance of intimate partner violence on the health of children, and the need for further research in this area. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

A family-based education program for obesity: a three-year study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: These results indicate the efficacy and sustainability of the Therapeutic Education program, that was completely carried out by a single pediatrician; in addition, it met with an elevated participant acceptance, suggesting a convenient therapeutic solution for skilled pediatricians and selected obese children, when Behavioral Therapy is not available or teamwork is poor. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Focus on Function - a randomized controlled trial comparing two rehabilitation interventions for young children with cerebral palsy

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 04:00:00 +0100

DiscussionThis paper presents the background information, design and protocol for a randomized controlled trial comparing a task/context-focused approach to a child-focused remediation approach in improving functional outcomes for young children with cerebral palsy [clinical trial registration #: NCT00469872] (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

A randomised controlled trial of early insulin therapy in very low birth weight infants, "NIRTURE" (neonatal insulin replacement therapy in Europe)

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 10 Aug 2007 04:00:00 +0100

Background: Studies in adult intensive care have highlighted the importance of insulin and improved glucose control on survival, with 32% reduction in mortality, 22% reduction in intensive care stay and halving of the incidence of bacteraemia. Very low birth weight infants requiring intensive care also have relative insulin deficiency often leading to hyperglycaemia during the first week of life. The physiological influences on insulin secretion and sensitivity, and the potential importance of glucose control at this time are not well established. However there is increasing evidence that the early postnatal period is critical for pancreatic development. At this time a complex set of signals appears to influence pancreatic development and beta cell survival. This has implications both in t...

Influenza vaccination coverage: findings from immunization information systems

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Though almost 1/3 of children received 1 or more doses of vaccine in 2 IIS sentinel projects during the first season of the new recommendation, emphasis needs to be placed on increasing the proportion of children fully vaccinated. IIS data can be used for timely monitoring of vaccination coverage assessments. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

A randomized controlled trial of sucrose and / or pacifier as analgesia for infants receiving venipuncture in a pediatric emergency department

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Pacifiers are inexpensive, effective analgesics and are easy to use in the PED for venipuncture in infants aged 0- 3 months. The benefits of sucrose alone as an analgesic require further investigation in the older infant, but sucrose does appear to provide additional benefit when used with a pacifier in this age group. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Incidence rates of progressive childhood encephalopathy in Oslo, Norway: a population based study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The overall incidence rate of PE was 6.43 per 100,000 person years. There was a strong reduction in incidence rates with increasing age. Two-thirds of the cases were metabolic, of which almost half presented in the neonatal period. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Leukocyte counts in urine reflect the risk of concomitant sepsis in bacteriuric infants: A retrospective cohort study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 04:00:00 +0100

In this study, we determine the extent of this risk. Methods: In a retrospective cohort study of febrile 0-89 day old infants evaluated for sepsis in an urban academic pediatric emergency department (1993-1999), we estimated rates of bacteriuric sepsis (urinary tract infections complicated by sepsis) after stratifying infants by urine leukocytes higher, or lower than 10 cells/hpf. We compared the global accuracy of leukocytes in urine, leukocytes in peripheral blood, body temperature, and age for predicting bacteruric sepsis. The global accuracy of each test was estimated by calculating the area under its receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Chi-square and Fisher exact tests compared count data. Medians for data not normally distributed were compared by the Kruskal-Wallis test. ...

Phono-spectrographic analysis of heart murmurs in children

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 04:00:00 +0100

Background: More than 90% of heart murmurs in children are innocent. Frequently the skills of the first examiner are not adequate to differentiate between innocent and pathological murmurs. Our goal was to evaluate the value of a simple and low-cost phonocardiographic recording and analysis system in determining the characteristic features of heart murmurs in children and in distinguishing innocent systolic murmurs from pathological. Methods: The system consisting of an electronic stethoscope and a multimedia laptop computer was used for the recording, monitoring and analysis of auscultation findings. The recorded sounds were examined graphically and numerically using combined phono-spectrograms. The data consisted of heart sound recordings from 807 pediatric patients, including 88 normal...

Survival and major neurodevelopmental impairment in extremely low gestational age newborns born 1990–2000: a retrospective cohort study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 03 May 2007 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: The probability of survival increased while that of major neurodevelopmental impairment decreased during the 1990's in this regionally based sample of ELGANs. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Mild gestational diabetes in pregnancy and the adipoinsular axis in babies born to mothers in the ACHOIS randomised controlled trial

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 12 Apr 2007 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Treatment of women with mild GDM using diet, blood glucose monitoring and insulin if necessary, influences the altered fetal adipoinsular axis characteristic of mild GDM in pregnancy. Trial Registration Number: Australian Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN012606000294550 (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Passive smoking as a risk factor of anemia in young children aged 0-35 months in Jordan

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 10 Apr 2007 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Passive smoking from both parents was strongly positively associated with anemia in young children in Jordan independent of other risk factors and confounding factors. The results support the importance of smoking prevention during and after pregnancy that prevent childhood anemia and others morbidities in young children. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Boys are more stunted than girls in Sub-Saharan Africa: a meta-analysis of 16 demographic and health surveys

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 10 Apr 2007 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In sub-Saharan Africa, male children under five years of age are more likely to become stunted than females, which might suggest that boys are more vulnerable to health inequalities than their female counterparts in the same age groups. In several of the surveys, sex differences in stunting were more pronounced in the lowest SES groups. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Effect of maternal calcium intake during pregnancy on children blood pressure: A systematic review of the literature

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: There is evidence in the literature to support an association between maternal calcium intake during pregnancy and offspring blood pressure. However, more research is needed to confirm these finding given the small sample sizes and the methodological problems in many of the studies conducted so far. More studies on populations with calcium deficit are also needed. If confirmed, these findings could have important public health implications. Calcium supplementation during pregnancy is simple and inexpensive and may be a way to reduce the risk of hypertension and its sequels in the next generation. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

What motivates British parents to consent for research? A questionnaire study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 09 Mar 2007 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The major motivation in parents consenting for their previously well child to participate in an RCT of therapy for an acute medical illness was to increase medical knowledge in the future. Most saw an advantage in taking part in the trial and did not feel obliged to participate. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Low adherence to exclusive breastfeeding in Eastern Uganda: A community-based cross-sectional study comparing dietary recall since birth with 24-hour recall

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 01 Mar 2007 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Even if breastfeeding is practiced at a very high rate, the use of prelacteal feeding and early introduction of other food items is the norm. The 24-hour recall gives a higher estimate of exclusive breastfeeding and predominant breastfeeding than the recall since birth. The 24-hour recall also detected improper infant feeding practices especially in the second half year of life. The dietary recall since birth might be a feasible alternative to monitor infant feeding practices in resource-poor settings. Our study reemphasizes the need for improving infant feeding practices in Eastern Uganda. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Evaluation of procalcitonin for diagnosis of neonatal sepsis of vertical transmission

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 26 Feb 2007 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Serum PCT was moderately useful for the detection of sepsis of vertical transmission, and its reliability as a maker of bacterial infection requires specific cutoff values for each evaluation point over the first 48 h of life. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

How effective is tetracaine 4% gel, before a venipuncture, in reducing procedural pain in infants: a randomized double-blind placebo controlled trial

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 08 Feb 2007 07:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Tetracaine did not significantly decrease procedural pain in infants undergoing a venipuncture, when used in combination with routine sucrose administration. Clinical Trials Registration: Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN42842643 (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

A case of Cornelia de Lange syndrome from Sudan

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Mon, 29 Jan 2007 07:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Reporting BDLS cases of different ethnic backgrounds could add nuances to the phenotypic description of the syndrome and be helpful in diagnosis. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Application of a plain abdominal radiograph transition zone (PARTZ) in Hirschsprung's disease

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Sat, 27 Jan 2007 07:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: A plain abdominal radiographic transition zone is reliable in predicting the level of transition zone in cases of inconclusive contrast enema. It may be particularly helpful developing countries where laparoscopic techniques are not available to accurately identify the transition zone. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Chronic multifocal non-bacterial osteomyelitis in hypophosphatasia mimicking malignancy

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 23 Jan 2007 07:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Chronic bone oedema in adult HP and chronic hyper-prostaglandinism in childhood HP do suggest that in some HP patients bone inflammation is present in conjunction with the metabolic defect. Sterile multifocal osteomyelitis could be demonstrated. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory treatment achieved complete remission. These cases illustrate chronic inflammation of the bone as a new feature of HP. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Discordant twins with the smaller baby appropriate for gestational age – unusual manifestation of superfoetation: A case report

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 19 Jan 2007 07:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Bleeding on implantation of the first foetus probably helped demarcate the two pregnancies. Dental age and the New Ballard score can be used to diagnose superfoetation in discordant twins, when detailed first trimester ultra-sound data is not available. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Parent-rated behavior problems associated with overweight before and after controlling for sleep disordered breathing

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 14 Dec 2006 07:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: After controlling for the effect of sleep disordered breathing, behaviors such as withdrawal and social problems, are common in overweight children and need to be taken into account in the design of interventions and services as they may act to moderate the efficacy of behavioral treatments. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

The muscle – fat duel or why obese children are taller?

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 13 Dec 2006 07:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Early recognition of the ailment (low muscle mass) is crucial. Based on studies demonstrating a 'rivalry' between muscle build-up and height growth at childhood, it is postulated that among the both taller and more obese children the percentage of children with lower muscle mass will be higher.A special, body/muscle-building gymnastics program for children is suggested as a potential early intervention to prevent the ill progress of obesity. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Socio-economic status and types of childhood injury in Alberta: a population based study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Thu, 09 Nov 2006 07:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: These results show that childhood injury in Alberta is a major health concern especially among males, children living in urban centres, and those living on welfare or have Treaty status. Most types of injury were more frequent in children of lower SES. Analysis of the three types of the healthcare premium subsidy allowed a more comprehensive picture of childhood injury with children whose families are on welfare and those of Treaty status presenting more frequently for an injury-related physician's consultation than other children. This report also demonstrates that administrative health care data can be usefully employed to describe injury patterns in children. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Evaluation of guided imagery as treatment for recurrent abdominal pain in children: a randomized controlled trial

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Wed, 08 Nov 2006 07:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: The therapeutic efficacy of guided imagery with progressive muscle relaxation found in this study is consistent with our present understanding of the pathophysiology of recurrent abdominal pain in children. Although unfamiliar to many pediatricians, guided imagery is a simple, noninvasive therapy with potential benefit for treating children with RAP. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Screening for hypoglycemia at the bedside in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with the Abbott PCx glucose meter

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 03 Nov 2006 07:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: The large difference between glucose results obtained by PCx glucose meter compared to the laboratory analyzer can be explained in part by hematocrit and low glucose concentration. These results emphasize that the glucose meter is useful only as a screening device for neonatal hypoglycemia and that a screening cut off value must be established. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Parents' knowledge and behaviour concerning sunning their babies; a cross-sectional, descriptive study

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 31 Oct 2006 07:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Most of the participants were aware of the benefits of sunlight; especially for bone development. However they were displaying inappropriate behaviour while sunning their babies for health reasons. More education should be given to parents about the danger of sunlight at primary health care units while advising to sun their babies, if any. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

Treatment in the pediatric emergency department is evidence based: a retrospective analysis

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Fri, 06 Oct 2006 06:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that a substantial proportion of PED treatment decisions are evidence-based, with most based on studies in pediatric patients. Also, a large number of patients seen in the PED receive no intervention. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)

The CF-CIRC study: a French collaborative study to assess the accuracy of Cystic Fibrosis diagnosis in neonatal screening

BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles — Tue, 03 Oct 2006 06:00:00 +0100

DiscussionA preliminary study of 3 adult control subjects and 4 children older than 12 years with CF verified that the new protocol was well tolerated and produced NPD measurements that did not differ significantly from those obtained with the standard protocol. This preliminary study will provide a basis for interpreting NPD measurements in patients with suspected CF after neonatal screening. Earlier definitive diagnosis should alleviate parental distress and allow earlier therapeutic intervention and genetic counseling. (Source: BMC Pediatrics - Latest articles)