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Australian Population (australian + population)
Kinds of Australian Population Selected AbstractsMotor function in 5-year-old children with cerebral palsy in the South Australian populationDEVELOPMENTAL MEDICINE & CHILD NEUROLOGY, Issue 7 2009JAMES RICE The aim of this study was to describe the motor function of a population of children at age 5 years enrolled on the South Australian Cerebral Palsy Register. Among children born between 1993 and 1998, there were 333 with confirmed cerebral palsy (prevalence rate 2.2 per 1000 live births), in whom 247 assessments (56.7% males, 43.3% females) were completed. The distribution by Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level was: level I, 50.6%; level II, 18.2%; level III, 9.3%; level IV, 9.7%; level V, 12.1%. The most common topographical classification was spastic diplegia (38.5%), followed by spastic hemiplegia (34.8%) and spastic quadriplegia (14.6%). Abnormal movements occurred at rest or with intention in 19.4% of children. A high proportion of the population with relatively mild gross motor impairments have difficulty with everyday bimanual tasks, reinforcing the need to assess upper limb function independently of gross motor function. The use of ankle,foot orthoses was common, particularly across GMFCS levels II to IV. Further refinement is indicated for this population's motor dataset, to include more recently described classification measures as well as future novel measures to better describe the presence of both spasticity and dystonia. [source] Inferring historical introduction pathways with mitochondrial DNA: the case of introduced Argentine ants (Linepithema humile) into New ZealandDIVERSITY AND DISTRIBUTIONS, Issue 5 2007Steve E. Corin ABSTRACT The threat imposed by invasive species and difficulties associated with control and management places more impetus on trying to prevent their introduction. The identification of introduction pathways is a vital component towards this goal. In this study, we use a genetic marker-based approach to retrospectively investigate the pathway of origin of the invasive Argentine ant (Linepithema humile) into New Zealand. We intensively sample the mitochondrial gene cytochrome b, from the entire known range of Argentine ants in New Zealand. No genetic variation was found in New Zealand. In order to identify likely introduction pathways, we use two alternative genetic analyses and suggest that a tcs approach that collapses identical haplotypes and calculates the probability of parsimony is superior to standard phylogenetic tree-building algorithms. A minimum spanning network allowed relationships to be examined among sequences collated from previous international studies. The cytochrome b sequence, when compared to a global database, matched that from an Australian population. That Australia is the potential source of Argentine ants is in agreement with the New Zealand interception record, as goods from Australia have the highest number of interception records of Argentine ants. Our approach can easily be duplicated for other organisms and the methodology can be more widely applied to help aid further efforts to identify the routes of transmission for other invasive species and allow us to efficiently direct our biosecurity monitoring effort. [source] The association of alcohol dependence with general practice attendanceDRUG AND ALCOHOL REVIEW, Issue 2 2009HEATHER PROUDFOOT Abstract Introduction and Aims. This study was designed to examine the relationship between alcohol dependence and general practitioner (GP) service attendance in Australia. Design and Methods. Data were analysed from the 1997 Australian National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing. In this survey, a representative sample of the Australian population was interviewed to ascertain past 12 month psychiatric diagnoses for all major mental disorders as well as the use of primary and other health services (n = 10 641, 79% response rate). Results. People with alcohol dependence comorbid with other psychiatric disorders have higher rates of service usage than those without such disorders. Discussion and Conclusions. Alcohol dependence comorbid with mental disorders has a significant impact on GP service in Australia. High rates of service use by individuals with such comorbidities were a considerable burden for GP services.[Proudfoot H, Teesson M. The association of alcohol dependence with general practice attendance. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009] [source] Patterns of co-morbidity between alcohol use and other substance use in the Australian populationDRUG AND ALCOHOL REVIEW, Issue 1 2003Dr. LOUISA DEGENHARDT Abstract The present study describes patterns of co-morbidity between alcohol use and other substance use problems in the Australian population using data from the 1997 National Survey of Mental Health and Well-Being. Multiple regression analyses examined whether the observed associations between alcohol and other drug use disorders were explained by other variables, including demographic characteristics and neuroticism. We also assessed whether the presence of co-morbid substance use disorders affected treatment seeking for a mental health problem. Alcohol use was related strongly to the use of other substances. Those who did not report alcohol use within the past 12 months were less likely to report using tobacco, cannabis, sedatives, stimulants or opiates. Higher rates again were observed among those with alcohol use disorders: half (51%) of those who were alcohol-dependent were regular tobacco smokers, one-third had used cannabis (32%); 15% reported other drug use; 15% met criteria for a cannabis use disorder and 7% met criteria for another drug use disorder. These associations were not accounted for by the demographic and other variables considered here. Co-morbid substance use disorders (sedatives, stimulants or opioids) predicted a high likelihood of seeking treatment for a mental health problem among alcohol-dependent people. [source] The epidemiology of cannabis use and cannabis-related harm in Australia 1993,2007ADDICTION, Issue 6 2010Amanda Roxburgh ABSTRACT Aims To examine trends in patterns of cannabis use and related harm in the Australian population between 1993 and 2007. Design Analysis of prospectively collected data from: (1) the National Drug Strategy Household Survey (NDSHS) and Australian Secondary Student Alcohol and Drug Survey (ASSADS); (2) the National Hospital Morbidity Database (NHMD); and (3) the Alcohol and Other Drug Treatment Services National Minimum Dataset (AODTS-NMDS). Participants Australians aged 14 years and over from the general population; students aged 12,17 years; public and private hospital in-patients; public and private in-patients and out-patients attending for drug treatment. Measurement Prevalence of 12-month cannabis use among the general population and secondary students. Proportions in the general population by age group reporting: daily cannabis use; difficulties in controlling cannabis use; and heavy cannabis use on each occasion. Number of hospital and treatment presentations for cannabis-related problems. Findings Prevalence of past-year cannabis use has declined in the Australian population since the late 1990s. Among those reporting past-year use, daily use is prevalent among 40,49-year-olds, while heavy patterns of use are prevalent among 14,19-year-olds. Hospital presentations for cannabis-related problems reflect similar trends. Past-year cannabis use has decreased among the 10,19-year age group, but those who are daily users in this age group report using large quantities of cannabis. Conclusions Despite declines in the prevalence of cannabis use, continued public health campaigns warning of the harms associated with cannabis use are essential, aimed particularly at users who are already experiencing problems. The increasing demand for treatment for cannabis problems in Australia suggests the need for more accessible and more effective interventions for cannabis use disorders. [source] Cost-effectiveness of interventions to prevent alcohol-related disease and injury in AustraliaADDICTION, Issue 10 2009Linda Cobiac ABSTRACT Aims To evaluate cost-effectiveness of eight interventions for reducing alcohol-attributable harm and determine the optimal intervention mix. Methods Interventions include volumetric taxation, advertising bans, an increase in minimum legal drinking age, licensing controls on operating hours, brief intervention (with and without general practitioner telemarketing and support), drink driving campaigns, random breath testing and residential treatment for alcohol dependence (with and without naltrexone). Cost-effectiveness is modelled over the life-time of the Australian population in 2003, with all costs and health outcomes evaluated from an Australian health sector perspective. Each intervention is compared with current practice, and the most cost-effective options are then combined to determine the optimal intervention mix. Measurements Cost-effectiveness is measured in 2003 Australian dollars per disability adjusted life year averted. Findings Although current alcohol intervention in Australia (random breath testing) is cost-effective, if the current spending of $71 million could be invested in a more cost-effective combination of interventions, more than 10 times the amount of health gain could be achieved. Taken as a package of interventions, all seven preventive interventions would be a cost-effective investment that could lead to substantial improvement in population health; only residential treatment is not cost-effective. Conclusions Based on current evidence, interventions to reduce harm from alcohol are highly recommended. The potential reduction in costs of treating alcohol-related diseases and injuries mean that substantial improvements in population health can be achieved at a relatively low cost to the health sector. [source] Occurrence of Appias albina albina (Boisduval, 1836) (Lepidoptera: Pieridae: Pierinae) in northern Australia: phenotypic variation, life history and biology, with remarks on its taxonomic statusENTOMOLOGICAL SCIENCE, Issue 2 2010Michael F. BRABY Abstract Variation in adult phenotype, the life history and general biology of the "White Albatross", Appias albina albina (Boisduval, 1836), are described and illustrated from the monsoon tropics of the northern Australia for the first time. Like elsewhere throughout the species' wide geographical range, the population exhibits sex-limited polymorphism, with females having three distinct color morphs (white, yellow, intermediate). Variation within and among these morphs is compared with populations from elsewhere in South-East Asia, particularly Maluku (including the type locality Ambon), and comments are made on the taxonomic status of the Australian population. The species inhabits coastal semi-deciduous monsoon vine-thicket where its larval food plant Drypetes deplanchei (Brongn. & Gris) Merr. (Euphorbiaceae) grows on lateritic edges and cliffs. The early stages and behaviour are compared with those of A. albina pancheia Fruhstorfer, 1910 from South-East Asia and A. paulina ega (Boisduval, 1836) from Australia. Adults are highly seasonal, their timing of appearance coinciding with annual leaf flush of the larval food plant and onset of the summer monsoon. During this period, the broad flight season lasts about two months, the life cycle is completed in approximately four weeks, and the species is probably univoltine or partially bivoltine. We conclude that breeding populations of A. albina albina in Australia are resident, but it remains to be established how the species survives the long dry season. [source] Assessment of high density of onsite wastewater treatment systems on a shallow groundwater coastal aquifer using PCAENVIRONMETRICS, Issue 3 2005Steven Carroll Abstract Onsite wastewater treatment systems are common throughout the world, including Australia, with approximately 17% of the Australian population relying on these systems to treat and ultimately dispose of wastewater. Systems which are properly sited, designed and managed are an effective way of providing the necessary treatment of wastewater. However, incidence of onsite system failure is common, and this is further compounded in areas where high densities of systems are established. The density of systems is not appropriately assessed in the siting and design stage. Various factors, such as site and soil characteristics and climate, can influence the treatment efficiency, and this is more critical in high density areas. Principal component analysis was used for assessing chemical and microbiological data from shallow groundwater below a high density of onsite treatment systems. The results of this study confirmed that high system densities can significantly impact shallow groundwater systems. Additionally, changes in spatial and climatic conditions, as well as the type of onsite system, can also influence the quality of groundwater. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] The genetics of tea and coffee drinking and preference for source of caffeine in a large community sample of Australian twinsADDICTION, Issue 10 2005Michelle Luciano ABSTRACT Aims To investigate the genetic and environmental influences on tea consumption and their commonalities with coffee consumption; and to further examine the genetic and environmental aetiology of preference for tea/coffee. Design A classical twin design was used in which the similarity of identical and non-identical twins is compared, enabling estimates of genetic, common environmental and unique environmental influence on the trait. Setting and participants An Australian population-based sample of 1796 identical (i.e. monozygotic) and 2013 non-identical (i.e. dizygotic) twin pairs aged 16,87 years was studied, roughly three-fifths of whom were female. The sample represented approximately 70% of those approached for study participation. Measurements As part of a Health and Lifestyle Questionnaire, respondents were asked how many cups of each tea and coffee they consumed per day. Additional measures of ,total tea and coffee consumption' and ,preference for coffee' were calculated. Findings Age was positively associated with tea consumption but negatively associated with coffee preference; women consumed more beverages than men, but showed a lower preference for coffee. An inverse relation between tea and coffee consumption,larger in females (,0.41) than males (,0.34),was supported. This association was mediated entirely by the unique environment in males, and by both the unique environment (68.3%) and genes (31.7%) in females. Tea and coffee drinking were shown to have similar heritabilities (0.46) in males, but tea consumption was influenced by common environmental factors whereas coffee consumption was not. Coffee preference was shown to be influenced by genes (0.42) and the unique environment (0.58). Conclusions As the patterns of genetic and environmental variation were shown to differ for tea and coffee consumption it may be more informative to retain them as separate measures of caffeine intake in future studies of stimulant use and taste perception. [source] Australian Universities 1939-1999: How Different Now?HIGHER EDUCATION QUARTERLY, Issue 2 2000Bruce Williams Between 1939 and 1999, when the Australian population increased from 7 to 19 million, university enrolments rose from 14,236 to 681,870. Until 1974 the most notable changes were the increases in the size of universities and of departments (which encouraged greater specialization), continued increases in research expenditures, in the percentage of postgraduate students, and a gradual decline in collegiality. In 1974 the Commonwealth Government assumed full responsibility for government grants to universities and abolished fees at just that time when growth rates in the economy fell sharply. Government influence on the universities increased, and there were some departures from the no-fees policy for international and postgraduate course-work masters and diploma students. Then in 1988 the Government decided to abolish the distinction between universities and colleges of advanced education, to create through amalgamations a smaller number of much larger universities and to set a specific mission for each university in the interest of economic growth. The Tertiary Education Commission was abolished and the universities dealt directly with the Minister and his Department. The Universities became distinctly more managerial, less collegial, and the range of courses and degrees was greatly expanded. There are now legitimate doubts about the quality of some degrees. Student fees came back, but in a way that reduced the financial burden on the government without giving the universities greater freedom. The government sponsored collective bargaining for university staff but as universities were not given the capacity to earn much additional income, increases in salaries increased student/staff ratios and induced a decline in morale. [source] Novel NOD2 haplotype strengthens the association between TLR4 Asp299gly and Crohn's disease in an Australian populationINFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASES, Issue 5 2008Georgia E. Hume MD Abstract Background: The first major Crohn's disease (CD) susceptibility gene, NOD2, implicates the innate intestinal immune system and other pattern recognition receptors in the pathogenesis of this chronic, debilitating disorder. These include the Toll-like receptors, specifically TLR4 and TLR5. A variant in the TLR4 gene (A299G) has demonstrated variable association with CD. We aimed to investigate the relationship between TLR4 A299G and TLR5 N392ST, and an Australian inflammatory bowel disease cohort, and to explore the strength of association between TLR4 A299G and CD using global meta-analysis. Methods: Cases (CD = 619, ulcerative colitis = 300) and controls (n = 360) were genotyped for TLR4 A299G, TLR5 N392ST, and the 4 major NOD2 mutations. Data were interrogated for case-control analysis prior to and after stratification by NOD2 genotype. Genotype,phenotype relationships were also sought. Meta-analysis was conducted via RevMan. Results: The TLR4 A299G variant allele showed a significant association with CD compared to controls (P = 0.04) and a novel NOD2 haplotype was identified which strengthened this (P = 0.003). Furthermore, we identified that TLR4 A299G was associated with CD limited to the colon (P = 0.02). In the presence of the novel NOD2 haplotype, TLR4 A299G was more strongly associated with colonic disease (P < 0.001) and nonstricturing disease (P = 0.009). A meta-analysis of 11 CD cohorts identified a 1.5-fold increase in risk for the variant TLR4 A299G allele (P < 0.00001). Conclusions:TLR 4 A299G appears to be a significant risk factor for CD, in particular colonic, nonstricturing disease. Furthermore, we identified a novel NOD2 haplotype that strengthens the relationship between TLR4 A299G and these phenotypes. (Inflamm Bowel Dis 2007) [source] 5,-Reductase type 2 gene variant associations with prostate cancer risk, circulating hormone levels and androgenetic alopeciaINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER, Issue 4 2007Vanessa M. Hayes Abstract Controversy exists over the significance of associations between the SRD5A2 (5,-reductase type 2) polymorphisms, A49T and V89L, and risk of prostate cancer. These potentially functional polymorphisms may alter life-long exposure to androgens with subsequent effects on male health and aging. The aim of this study was to examine the association of these variants with prostate cancer risk, plasma hormone levels and androgenetic alopecia. Subjects include 827 cases and 736 controls from an Australian population-based case,control study of prostate cancer. Information on prostate cancer risk factors and patterns of balding were collected. Plasma levels of testosterone, 3,-diol glucuronide (3,-diolG), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, androstenedione, sex hormone-binding globulin and estradiol were measured for controls. No associations with the V89L polymorphism were found. Carriers of the rarer A49T A allele were at a 60% higher risk of prostate cancer (OR = 1.60; 95% CI 1.09,2.36; p = 0.02) and 50% lower risk of vertex and frontal balding (p = 0.03) compared with men homozygous for the more common G allele. Although we found little evidence of association between this variant and plasma levels of 5 measured androgens, circulating 3,-diolG levels were 34% lower in A49T A allele carriers (p < 0.0001). Our study provides evidence that the SRD5A2 A49T A variant is associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer, lower levels of circulating 3,-diolG and decreased risk of baldness. These findings raise important questions with respect to previous assumptions concerning hormonal influences on prostate cancer risk in ageing males. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] The rising prevalence of comorbid obesity and eating disorder behaviors from 1995 to 2005INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EATING DISORDERS, Issue 2 2009Anita Darby BSc (Nutrition & Dietetics) Abstract Objective: To measure the cooccurrence of obesity and eating disorder (ED) behaviors in the South Australian population and assess the change in level from 1995 to 2005. Method: Two independent cross-sectional single stage interview based population surveys were conducted a decade apart. Self-reported height, weight, ED behaviors, and sociodemographics were assessed. Changes between the two time points were analyzed. Results: From 1995 to 2005 the population prevalence of comorbid obesity and ED behaviors increased from 1 to 3.5%. Comorbid obesity and ED behaviors increased more (prevalence odds ratio (POR) = 4.5; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 95% CI = [2.8, 7.4]; p < .001) than either obesity (POR = 1.6; 95% CI = [1.3, 2.0]; p < .001) or ED behaviors (POR = 3.1; 95% CI = [2.3, 4.1]; p < .001) alone. Discussion: Comorbid obesity and ED behaviors are an increasing problem in our society. Prevention and treatments efforts for obesity and EDs must consider and address this increasing comorbidity. © 2008 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2009 [source] The clinical features of dermatomyositis in a South Australian populationINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RHEUMATIC DISEASES, Issue 2 2007Vidya LIMAYE Abstract Aim:, To review the clinical features of dermatomyositis (DM) in a South Australian population. Methods:, Retrospective review of medical records of patients with biopsy-proven DM in South Australia from 1990 to 2005. Results:, There were 21 cases of biopsy-proven DM in SA (62% F, mean age 49.7 ± 18.4 years) and clinical details were available in 20 of these. Malignancy was identified in 9/20 patients; in five this followed the diagnosis of DM, with three malignancies seen within 3 months of disease onset. Three patients had a clearly defined immune insult prior to the diagnosis of DM; one patient had Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection 23 days prior to DM, two had pneumococcal and influenza vaccinations 5 and 14 days prior to the onset of DM, respectively. Two of three patients with anti-Jo-1 antibody experienced thromboembolism within 2 months of DM onset and three patients had interstitial lung disease (2 with anti-Jo-1 antibody). Creatine kinase (CK) was elevated in 15/20 cases and showed strong correlation with transaminases, and notably not with traditional inflammatory markers. Conclusions:, This retrospective review of patients with biopsy-proven DM suggests a role for infection/vaccination in triggering disease onset. A particularly strong association with malignancy was observed and it is suggested that DM may predispose to thrombosis. Transaminases, in addition to CK may be used to monitor disease activity, and traditional inflammatory markers have little role in this. [source] Regional variation of intracortical porosity in the midshaft of the human femur: age and sex differencesJOURNAL OF ANATOMY, Issue 2 2005C. David L. Thomas Abstract This study investigated age and sex differences in patterns of porosity distribution in the midshaft of the human femur. Cross-sections were obtained from 168 individuals from a modern Australian population. The sample comprised 73 females and 95 males, aged between 20 and 97 years. Microradiographs were made of 100-µm sections and pore and bone areas were determined using image processing software. Initially the sample was divided by age: young (20,44 years), middle (45,64 years) and old (65+ years), but it was found that analysis on the basis of the ratio of medullary area to total subperiosteal area gave clearer results. The cortex was divided into three rings radially and into octants circumferentially and the porosity of each segment was calculated. Results showed that a pattern with raised porosity in the posterior and anterolateral regions, and with greater porosity in the inner parts of the cortex, becomes more pronounced with age. In males this pattern develops steadily; in females there are much greater differences between the middle and older groups than earlier in life. The patterns observed are consistent with progressive bone loss occurring along a neutral axis of the cortex where bending stress is lowest and the mechanical advantage of the bone is least. [source] Distribution of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia in an Australian populationJOURNAL OF CLINICAL PERIODONTOLOGY, Issue 12 2001S. M. Hamlet Abstract Background, aim: The present study describes (i) the natural distribution of the three putative periodontopathogens Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia and Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans in an Australian population and (ii) the relationship between these organisms, pocket depths and supragingival plaque scores. Methods: Subgingival plaque was collected from the shallowest and deepest probing site in each sextant of the dentition. In total, 6030 subgingival plaque samples were collected from 504 subjects. An ELISA utilising pathogen-specific monoclonal antibodies was used to quantitate bacterial numbers. Results::A. actinomycetemcomitans was the most frequently detected organism (22.8% of subjects) followed by P. gingivalis and P. intermedia (14.7% and 9.5% of subjects respectively). The majority of infected subjects (83%) were colonised by a single species of organism. A. actinomycetemcomitans presence was over-represented in the youngest age group but under-represented in the older age groups. Conversely, P. gingivalis and P. intermedia presence was under-represented in the youngest age group but over-represented in the older age groups. Differing trends in the distribution of these bacteria were observed between subjects depending upon the site of the infection or whether a single or mixed infection was present; however, these differences did not reach significance. Bacterial presence was strongly associated with pocket depth for both A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis. For A. actinomycetemcomitans, the odds of a site containing this bacterium decrease with deeper pockets. In contrast, for P. gingivalis the odds of a site being positive are almost six times greater for pockets >3 mm than for pockets 3 mm. These odds increase further to 15.3 for pockets deeper than 5 mm. The odds of a site being P. intermedia positive were marginally greater (1.16) for pockets deeper than 3 mm. Conclusions: This cross-sectional study in a volunteer Australian population, demonstrated recognised periodontal pathogens occur as part of the flora of the subgingival plaque. Prospective longitudinal studies are needed to examine the positive relationship between pocket depth and pathogen presence with periodontal disease initiation and/or progression. Zusammenfassung Hintergrund: Die vorliegende Studie beschreibt: 1.) die natürliche Verteilung der 3 vermutlichen Parodontalpathogene Porphyromonas gingivalis und Prevotella intermedia und Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans in einer Australischen Population und 2.) das Verhältnis zwischen diesen Organismen, der Taschentiefe und den supragingivalen Plaquewerten. Methoden: In jedem Sextanten des Gebisses wurde subgingivale Plaque von der flachsten und tiefsten Stelle entnommen. Insgesamt wurden 6030 subgingivalen Plaqueproben bei 504 Personen entnommen. Um die Anzahl der Bakterien zu quantifizieren wurde ein ELISA, welcher mit pathogen-spezifische monoklonale Antikörper arbeitet, verwendet. Ergebnisse:A. actinomycetemcomitans war der Keim, der am häufigsten nachgewiesen wurde (22.8% der Personen), gefolgt von P. gingivalis und P. intermedia (14.7% bzw. 9.5% der Personen). Die Mehrheit der Personen (83%) wurde von einer einzigen Spezies eines Organismus kolonisiert. Das Vorkommen von A. actinomycetemcomitans war in der jüngsten Altersgruppe überrepräsentiert, aber in der älteren Altersgruppen unterrepräsentiert. Im Gegensatz dazu war das Vorkommen von P. gingivalis und P. intermedia in der jüngsten Altersgruppe unterepräsentiert, aber in der älteren Altersgruppen überrepräsentiert. Zwischen der Personen wurden unterschiedliche Trends in der Verteilung dieser Bakterien beobachtet. Diese waren abhängig von der Stelle der Infektion oder ob eine Monoinfektion oder Mischinfektion vorhanden war. Jedoch erreichten diese Unterschiede nicht den Bereich der Signifikanz. Sowohl für A. actinomycetemcomitans als auch P. gingivalis war das Vorkommen von Bakterien stark mit der Taschentiefe assoziiert. Für A. actinomycetemcomitans nimmt die Odds einer Stelle welche das Bakterium enthält mit der Tiefe der Tasche ab. Im Gegensatz dazu ist die Odds einer Stelle die positiv für P. gingivalis ist fast sechsmal größer für Taschen >3 mm als für Taschen 3 mm. Diese Odds erhöht sich weiter auf 15.3 für Taschen die tiefer als 5 mm sind. Die Odds einer Stelle die positive für P. intermedia ist war nur etwas größer (1.16) für Taschen, die tiefer als 3 mm sind. Schlussfolgerung: Diese Querschnittsstudie einer Australischen Population von Freiwillingen zeigte, dass die erkannten Parodontalpathogene ein Bestandteil der Flora der subgingivalen Plaque sind. Prospektive Langzeitstudien sind notwendig, um die positive Beziehung zwischen der Taschentiefe und dem Vorkommen von Pathogenen mit dem Beginn und der Progression einer Parodontalerkrankung zu untersuchen. Résumé Origine: Cette étude décrit (i) la distribution naturelle des 3 parodontopathogènes présume,Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis et Prevotella intermedia dans une population australienne et (ii) la relation entre ces organismes, les profondeurs de poche et les scores de plaque supragingivale. Méthodes: La plaque sous-gingivale a été prélevée sur le site le moins profond et sur le site le plus profond de chaque sextant de la denture. Au total, 6030 échantillons de plaque sous-gingivale ont été prélevés chez 504 sujets. Un test ELISA par anticorps monoclonaux spécifiques des pathogènes a permis de quantifier les nombres de bactéries. Résultats:Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans était l'organisme le plus fréquement détecté (22.8%) des sujets) suivi de Porphyromonas gingivalis et Prevotella intermedia (14.7% et 9.5% des sujets, respectivement). La majorité des sujets infectés (83%) étaient colonisés par une unique espèce d'organisme. La présence d'Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitansétait surreprésentée dans le groupe des plus jeunes mais sous-représentée dans les groupes plus agés. Des tendances différentes de la distribution de ces bactéries étaient observées entre les sujets selon le site d'infection ou la présence d'une infection unique ou mixte. Cependant, ces différences n'étaient pas significatives. La présence bactérienne était fortement associée avec la profondeur de poche pour Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans et Porphyromonas gingivalis, pour Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, les chances d'un site de contenir cette bactérie diminuant avec la profondeur de poche, alors que pour Porphyromonas gingivalis, les chances d'un site d'être positif étaient 6× plus grande pour des poches >3 mm que pour les poches 3 mm. Ces chances augmentaient en plus à 15.3 pour les poches >5 mm. Les chances d'un site d'être positif pour P. intermediaétaient légèrement plus importantes pour les poches de plus de 3 mm. Conclusions: Cette étude croisée dans une population volontaire australienne a démontré que des pathogènes parodontaux reconnus font partie de leur plaque sous-gingivale. Des études prospectives longitudinales sont nécessaires pour examiner les relations positives entre la profondeur de poche et la présence de pathogènes et l'initiation et/ou la progression de la maladie. [source] Genetic testing for HFE hemochromatosis in Australia: The value of testing relatives of simple heterozygotesJOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY, Issue 7 2002JULEEN A CAVANAUGH AbstractBackground : It is unclear whether screening of relatives of C282Y and H63D heterozygotes (other than compound heterozygotes) for hemochromatosis will detect sufficient numbers of cases to justify introduction of this screening strategy. Methods : Conditional probabilities were determined using published Australian allele frequencies and penetrance data to determine the detection rate of hemochromatosis by testing the siblings and offspring of heterozygotes (subjects with only one HFE mutation). Results : The number of individuals who are at risk of developing increased body iron stores because of HFE mutations is substantially higher (1 in 80) than previously estimated. In addition, 33% of the Australian population are heterozygous for either C282Y or H63D. Based on population estimates, the relative risk to the offspring of C282Y and H63D heterozygotes of developing increased iron stores is 4.1 and 1.5, respectively, while the relative risk to each sibling is 2.3 and 1, respectively. The risk of developing clinical features of hemochromatosis or hepatic fibrosis is likely to be substantially lower. Conclusions : Although the detection rate from testing the families of unaffected heterozygotes is low, this can be justified as a clinically useful screening strategy. At the present time this strategy should be restricted to first-degree relatives of heterozygotes. Further studies are recommended to determine if cascade genetic screening is a cost-effective alternative to general population screening. © 2002 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd [source] Risk of gastric cancer is not increased after partial gastrectomyJOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY, Issue 7 2000R Bassily Abstract Background: It has been suggested that there is an increased risk of gastric cancer following partial gastrectomy. This question has not been studied in an Australian population. Methods: The records of a total of 569 patients who had a partial gastrectomy for peptic ulcer disease at Repatriation General Hospital, Heidelberg, between 1957 and 1976 were reviewed. All were followed to date of death or 31 December 1996. The expected rate of gastric cancer for this population was estimated from published Australian age-and sex-specific gastric cancer mortality rates over this period, and a standardized incidence ratio was calculated. Results: The mean age at surgery was 53.5 years (range 27,83 years). There were 547 male (96.4%) and 22 female (3.6%) patients. Five hundred and seven (83.5%) had a Billroth II procedure. Thirty-eight patients (6.3%) were lost to follow up and were not included in the analysis. From the records of the Department of Veterans' Affairs, it was established that 125 (20.6%) were alive in December 1996, a mean survival after surgery of 18.8 years. The mean documented duration of follow up was 17.3 years (range 1,41 years). Nine patients developed cancer in the gastric remnant. The expected number of cancers in this population was 6.5. Assuming all survivors were free of gastric cancer, the standardized incidence ratio was 1.39 (95% confidence intervals 0.64,2.65, P = 0.313). Conclusion: The risk of gastric cancer was not increased after partial gastrectomy in this Australian population. [source] Clinical verification of the superiority of the current International Union Against Cancer staging criteria in an Australian population of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinomaJOURNAL OF MEDICAL IMAGING AND RADIATION ONCOLOGY, Issue 4 2004J Corry Summary The purpose of this study is to assess the prognostic abilities of the fourth and fifth edition International Union Against Cancer (UICC) staging systems for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) in Australian patients. All patients planned for curative treatment at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre from April 1985 to December 1999 were included in this study. There were 181 patients eligible for this study. The median follow up was 7.6 years. Histological subgroups were World Health Organization (WHO) 1 (23), WHO 2 (12), and WHO 3 (146). Presentation with stage IV disease was 83% by UICC fourth edition staging and 34% by UICC fifth edition staging. The 5 years failure-free survival (FFS) rates for stage 1, 2, 3 and 4 disease by the fourth edition was 77, 100, 93, and 49% respectively,and by the fifth edition was 85, 76, 57 and 36%, respectively. The 5 years overall survival (OS) for stage 1, 2, 3, and 4 disease by the fourth edition was 77, 100, 100 and 61%; respectively, and by the fifth edition was 85, 82, 67 and 53%, respectively. Stage 4 patients by the fourth edition were reclassified as stages 2, 3 and 4 by the fifth edition with hazard ratios of 0.77, 1.01 and 1.79, respectively. In multifactor analysis, the fifth edition staging system was significantly related to FFS and OS after allowing for the fourth edition (FFS: P = 0.002; OS: P = 0.005), but the fourth edition was not significantly related to FFS or OS after allowing for the fifth edition (FFS: P = 0.96; OS: P = 0.96). This study confirms the prognostic superiority of the fifth edition UICC staging system over the fourth edition staging system in an Australian NPC population. [source] Simultaneous detection and differentiation of human polyomaviruses JC and BK by a rapid and sensitive PCR-ELAHA assay and a survey of the JCV subtypes within an Australian populationJOURNAL OF MEDICAL VIROLOGY, Issue 3 2004David M. Whiley Abstract Human polyomaviruses JCV and BKV can cause several clinical manifestations in immunocompromised hosts, including progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) and haemorrhagic cystitis. Molecular detection by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is recognised as a sensitive and specific method for detecting human polyomaviruses in clinical samples. In this study, we developed a PCR assay using a single primer pair to amplify a segment of the VP1 gene of JCV and BKV. An enzyme linked amplicon hybridisation assay (ELAHA) using species-specific biotinylated oligonucleotide probes was used to differentiate between JCV and BKV. This assay (VP1-PCR-ELAHA) was evaluated and compared to a PCR assay targeting the human polyomavirus T antigen gene (pol - PCR). DNA sequencing was used to confirm the polyomavirus species identified by the VP1-PCR-ELAHA and to determine the subtype of each JCV isolate. A total of 297 urine specimens were tested and human polyomavirus was detected in 105 specimens (35.4%) by both PCR assays. The differentiation of JCV and BKV by the VP1-PCR-ELAHA showed good agreement with the results of DNA sequencing. Further, DNA sequencing of the JCV positive specimens showed the most prevalent JCV subtype in our cohort was 2a (27%) followed by 1b (20%), 1a (15%), 2c (14%), 4 (14%) and 2b (10%). The results of this study show that the VP1-PCR-ELAHA is a sensitive, specific and rapid method for detecting and differentiating human polyomaviruses JC and BK and is highly suitable for routine use in the clinical laboratory. J. Med. Virol. 72:467,472, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Epidemiology of major paediatric chest traumaJOURNAL OF PAEDIATRICS AND CHILD HEALTH, Issue 11 2009Sumudu P Samarasekera Aim: Paediatric chest trauma is a marker of severe injury and a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. However, current trends in the Australian population are unknown. This study aims to outline the profile and management of major paediatric chest trauma in Victoria. Methods: Prospectively collected data of patients from the Victorian State Trauma Registry from July 2001 to June 2007 were retrospectively reviewed. Data on fatalities were obtained from the National Coroners Information System. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the profiles of major trauma cases and coroners' cases. Results: Overall, 204 cases with serious paediatric chest injuries were reported by the Victorian State Trauma Registry (n = 158) and National Coroners Information System (n = 46) (excluding overlapping cases) in 2001,2007. Paediatric chest trauma was more common in males. The Injury Severity Score ranged from 16 to 25 in most patients. Blunt trauma was responsible for 96% of cases, of which motor vehicle collisions accounted for 75%. Median hospitalisation was 9 days, and 64% of patients were admitted to intensive care. Common injuries included lung contusion (66%), haemo/pneumothorax (32%) and rib fracture (23%). Multiple organ injury occurred in 99% of cases, with head (62%) and abdominal (50%) injury common. Management was conservative, with only 11 cases (7%) treated surgically. The highest mortality was in the 10,15-year age group. In 52 (79%) fatalities, injury was transport related. Conclusion: Australian paediatric chest trauma trends are similar to international patterns. Serious injury requiring surgical intervention is rare. This limited exposure may lead to difficulty in maintaining surgical expertise in this highly specialised area. [source] Use of the Ages and Stages Questionnaire to predict outcome after hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy in the neonateJOURNAL OF PAEDIATRICS AND CHILD HEALTH, Issue 10 2008Natalie M Lindsay Background: Infants who suffer hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) at birth are at increased risk of developmental disability. In this at-risk population, reliable, inexpensive and early identification of those children who are likely to require formal developmental assessment and intervention is needed. Aim: To evaluate the ability of the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) to detect developmentally delayed children in an Australian population of infants who suffered HIE at birth. Methods: Fifty-five children who survived HIE were followed until 12,14 months of age. Test characteristics were calculated to examine the ability of the ASQ to appropriately identify developmentally delayed infants against this study's ,gold standard': the Bayley Scales of Infant Development II. Results: Comparing the ASQ with the Bayley Scales of Infant Development II, the questionnaire had the following test characteristics: sensitivity 92%, specificity 95%, positive predictive value 92%, negative predictive value 95% when used to detect severe developmental delay; and sensitivity 67%, specificity 93%, positive predictive value 92%, negative predictive value 68% when used to detect both severe and mild developmental delay. However, the ASQ used at standard cut-offs failed to detect any of the children with mild delay. Conclusions: The ASQ is extremely effective for the detection of severe developmental delay in children who have suffered HIE at birth. Its capacity to identify those with milder delay is limited. The ability of the test to detect only those with severe developmental delay means that the ASQ is of little value as a screening tool in this population. [source] Reliability and validity of the Inventory of Functional Status after Childbirth when used in an Australian populationNURSING & HEALTH SCIENCES, Issue 3 2002Carol McVeigh RN Abstract This study presents the results of reliability and validity testing of the Inventory of Functional Status after Childbirth (IFSAC) when used in an Australian sample. Data were obtained from a culturally diverse group of 173 women residing in a regional city in New South Wales, Australia. Participants could read and write English, delivered healthy infants between 37 and 42 weeks gestation and experienced normal pregnancies, labors, and deliveries. The inventory and its five scales were assessed for reliability using Cronbach's coefficient , and construct validity using item-total correlation matrices. While three of the IFSAC scales performed well, two were problematic in this Australian population. With modification and updating, the clinical utility of IFSAC may be more fully realized. [source] How many Australian deaths from heart disease and stroke could be avoided by a small reduction in population cholesterol levels?NUTRITION & DIETETICS, Issue 3 2009Rachel HUXLEY Abstract Aim:, To quantify the number of premature deaths from coronary heart disease and ischaemic stroke that potentially could be avoided annually among the Australian population if a sustained 10% reduction in the mean population level of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were to be achieved. Methods:, Data were obtained on the number of deaths from coronary heart disease and stroke in the Australian population, subdivided into age and sex strata, and on the mean population level of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Published relative risks (95% CI) from a meta-analysis of lipid-lowering therapy were used to calculate the reduction in the relative risk for coronary heart disease and stroke associated with a 5%, 10% and 15% reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. The expected number of deaths from coronary heart disease and ischaemic stroke avoidable with a 10% reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol was modelled. Secondary analyses were performed assuming reductions in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol of 5% and 15%. Results:, A 10% reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol would prevent 2279 deaths from coronary heart disease (95% CI: 2025,2531 deaths) and 641 deaths from ischaemic stroke (95% CI: 440,881 deaths). The projected benefits are greatest among the elderly, although some benefit would be expected in all age and sex groups and among individuals with a broad range of baseline levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Conclusions:, A small leftward shift in the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol distribution of the adult Australian population has the potential to save about 3000 lives from coronary heart disease and stroke annually. Achieving this goal will require the active participation of key public health, food industry and government stakeholders. [source] Marketing the dietetics profession to consumers and stakeholders: A social and professional imperativeNUTRITION & DIETETICS, Issue 4 2005Suzan Burton Abstract (Nutr Diet 2005;62:158,160) In the present paper we argue that despite the potential impact of dietetic practice on public health, the use of professional dietetic services appears to be stagnant. To redress this position, dietitians may need to increase their use of marketing activities to promote the value of the profession. We discuss the different roles of the Dietitians Association of Australia and of individual members in marketing activities, provide an overview of the key components of a marketing plan and strategy, and outline specific steps that dietitians can take to actively promote their services. We argue that promotion of the dietetic profession may ultimately contribute to better health through nutrition for the Australian population. [source] Antiepileptic drugs in Australia: 2002,2007,PHARMACOEPIDEMIOLOGY AND DRUG SAFETY, Issue 1 2010Samantha A Hollingworth BSc (Hons) Abstract Purpose With the marketing of a number of new antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in recent years it seemed possible that the pattern of Australian prescribing for patients with epilepsy may have been changing. We examined the trends in the prescribing of subsidised AEDs in the Australian population from 2002 to 2007. Methods We analysed the Medicare Australia and Drug Utilisation Sub-Committee databases for script data for AEDs from 2002 to 2007 in 5-year age groups by gender and by class of prescriber. Scripts were converted to defined daily doses (DDDs)/1000/day using Australian Bureau of Statistics population data. Results Overall AED use (mainly valproate, lamotrigine and levetiracetam) increased progressively in 2002,2007 from 9.33 to 10.12 DDD/1000 population/day. Sodium valproate was the most widely used agent followed by carbamazepine then phenytoin. Amount of AED used increased in those aged in their 20s and 30s to plateau between 40 and 90 years. Use peaked in those aged 80,84 years and was slightly higher in males than females. Conclusions The rate of increase in the prescribing of AEDs remained steady between 2002 and 2007. The gender differences in prescribing reflect the higher prevalence of epilepsy in men and higher individual dosages used when many AEDs are prescribed on a body weight basis. The high use of some of these drugs in elderly people (,80 years) warrants further exploration. There is growing use of lamotrigine and gabapentin for indications apart from epilepsy,most likely neuropathic pain and mood disorders. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] ORIGINAL RESEARCH,EPIDEMIOLOGY: Male Erectile Dysfunction: Its Prevalence in Western Australia and Associated Sociodemographic FactorsTHE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 1 2008FRCPEdin, FRCPGlasg, Kew-Kim Chew MBBS ABSTRACT Introduction., This is a report of a population-based cross-sectional observational study in Western Australia (WA) on male erectile dysfunction (ED). Aim., To assess the prevalence of ED in WA and to examine its associated sociodemographic factors. Method., Postal questionnaires were sent to randomly selected age-stratified male population samples obtained from the WA Electoral Roll. Main Outcome Measures., In addition to items covering sociodemographic and clinical information, the Australian Standard Classification of Occupations (ASCO), the Socioeconomic Index for Area (SEIFA), and the 5-item International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) were used. Results., One thousand seven hundred seventy (41.9%) of 4,228 questionnaires were returned. One thousand five hundred eighty (89.3%) were completed questionnaires from men aged 20.1 to 99.6 years (mean 57.9, median 59.1, standard deviation 18.5). The prevalences of any ED and of severe ED among adult males in WA, adjusted for age distribution, were 25.1 and 8.5%, respectively. Standardized to World Health Organization (WHO) World Standard Population, the corresponding prevalences were 23.4 and 7.4%. Prevalence, as well as severity, of ED increased with age. Thirty-eight percent of the participants who were married or had partners experienced ED (severe ED 19.1%). The prevalence of ED was not significantly different between "white-collar" and "blue-collar" workers. Despite the great majority of the affected participants having experienced ED for >1 year, only 14.1% reported having ever received any treatment for ED. Conclusions., The study has provided population-based epidemiological data on ED in Western Australian men covering a wide range of ages. The finding that ED is age related, highly prevalent, and grossly underdiagnosed and undertreated is pertinent to global population aging and a rapidly aging Australian population. To facilitate comparisons across populations with different age distributions, all future population-based studies on ED should be standardized to WHO World Standard Population. Chew K-K, Stuckey B, Bremner A, Earle C, and Jamrozik K. Male Erectile Dysfunction: Its Prevalence in Western Australia and Associated Sociodemographic Factors. J Sex Med 2008;5:60,69. [source] Colorectal carcinoma among Indigenous people: a public hospital-based study in Townsville and Cairns, North Queensland, AustraliaANZ JOURNAL OF SURGERY, Issue 11 2005Ping-Yan Lu Introduction: There are very little clinical and pathological data on colorectal cancer among Indigenous people in Australia. Methods: A retrospective study on Indigenous patients treated for colorectal cancer at the Townsville and Cairns Base Hospitals from 1999 to 2004 was carried out in order to better characterise this disease in the Indigenous population. Results: There were 25 patients (12 M, 13 F) with a median age of 57.3 years. The majority (56%) of the tumours were left-sided, being in the sigmoid colon, rectosigmoid junction and rectum. Of the patients, 60% had American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) staging system Stage I and II disease at presentation. There was a relatively high proportion of poorly differentiated adenocarcinomas (40%). Six patients died of the disease. The median follow-up was 20.5 months (range 2,51). Conclusions: Comparisons were made with available data on colorectal cancer in the general Australian population. The limitations and deficiencies of the study, as well as problems of data collection on Indigenous people were discussed. [source] SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA OF THE LIP: A RETROSPECTIVE REVIEW OF THE PETER M ACCALLUM CANCER INSTITUTE EXPERIENCE 1979,88ANZ JOURNAL OF SURGERY, Issue 5 2000D. Mccombe Background: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the lower lip is a common malignancy in Australia. Surgical excision and/or radiotherapy are used in treatment, and are regarded as equally effective. Methods: A retrospective review of 323 patients treated at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Institute with either surgical excision and/or radiotherapy, evaluated disease recurrence, cause-specific mortality, and the incidence of metachronous lesions. Results: Recurrence-free survival at 10 years was estimated to be 92.5%, and cause-specific survival at 10 years was estimated to be 98.0%. Equivalent rates of local control were obtained with surgery and radiotherapy. Recurrence was related to tumour stage and differentiation. A high incidence of metachronous lesions was noted, 25 patients had a lesion prior to presentation and 33 patients developed second lip lesions during the study period. Conclusions: Squamous cell carcinoma of the lower lip is well treated with surgery or radiotherapy. The preferred treatment for most patients with SCC of the lower lip in the Australian population is surgical excision. This study has shown a significant incidence of metachronous lip neoplasia, except in those patients whose whole lip had been resurfaced. [source] The Current State and Future Direction of Counseling Psychology in AustraliaAPPLIED PSYCHOLOGY, Issue 1 2007Robert G.L. Pryor Cet article décrit l'état actuel de la psychologie du counseling en Australie en termes de forces, faiblesses, opportunités et menaces. Parmi les forces identifiées, on trouve un champ professionnel très énergique, un large éventail d'activités de plus en plus acceptées de la part du public, des revues à comité de lecture, et une activité de recherche significative s'appuyant sur un engagement manifeste dans une démarche basée sur la preuve et appliquée au counseling. Les faiblesses soulignent l'accès inéquitable en termes de coût et d'éloignement géographique aux services de counseling de larges parties de la population australienne. La technologie fournit une occasion de relever des défis d'accès, de coût et d'implantation. En outre, les rapides changements économiques fournissent des opportunités pour les counselors de travailler activement avec des clients confrontés à des changements rapides et inattendus. Clairement, la psychologie du counseling se différencie comme champ théorique, de recherche et de pratique. Simultanément, elle peut mettre à disposition les compétences des psychologues du counseling lors d'investigations transdisciplinaires et d'applications ce qui constitue l'un des plus grands défis pour les psychologues australiens du counseling. Les développements futurs de la psychologie du counseling en Australie sont dépeints. This article outlines the current state of counseling psychology in Australia in terms of its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Strengths identified include a vibrant field of professional activity, a wide range of activities, increasing levels of public acceptance, successful peer-reviewed journals, and significant research activity that underlies a widespread commitment to an evidence-based approach to counseling. Weaknesses include the inequitable access to counseling services both in terms of cost and the geographic remoteness of parts of the Australian population. Technology provides an opportunity to address access, cost, and delivery challenges. Furthermore, the rapidly changing economic landscape provides opportunities for counselors to work proactively with clients who are confronted by rapid and unplanned change. Clearly differentiating counseling psychology as a field of theory, research, and practice while at the same time being able to integrate the skills of counseling psychologists within cross-disciplinary investigations and applications constitute the greatest challenges for Australian counseling psychologists. A vision of the future development of counseling psychology in Australia is proffered. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||