bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The incidence of venous thromboembolism in patients with overt hyperthyroidism
Authors: Stuijver Danka J. F. , Dekkers Olaf M. , van Zaane Bregje , Fliers Eric , Cannegieter Suzanne C. , Gerdes Victor E. A. , Kootte Ruud S.
Published: January 2012

Hyperthyroidism is associated with several changes in the haemostatic system resulting in a hypercoagulable state. It is uncertain at this stage whether this leads to an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to determine the risk of VTE in all patients with overt hyperthyroidism and to compare this to the risk of VTE in the general population. In three hospitals in the Netherlands, patients with biochemically confirmed hyperthyroidism caused by Graves’ disease, multinodular goiter or toxic adenoma were included. All available electronic and handwritten records were examined. Primary outcome was the occurrence of VTE within six months before and until six months after the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism. We included a total of 587 patients. Five patients experienced a VTE during the study period, resulting in an incidence rate of 8.7 (95% CI 2.8 – 20.2) per 1,000 person-years. Three of these five patients had a first VTE (incidence rate for first VTE was 5.3 [95% CI 1.1 – 15.6] per 1,000 person-years). Incidence rates of VTE in the general population are between 0.6 and 1.6 per 1,000 person-years for first VTE and 0.7 and 1.8 per 1,000 person-years for all VTE. In conclusion, the incidence rate of VTE in patients with hyperthyroidism appears to be high. Future prospective studies are needed to further explore this possible association and to address its clinical implications.
Isolated Left Ventricular Noncompaction in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Clinical and Echocardiographic Perspective
Authors: Peters Ferande , Khandheria Bijoy K. , dos Santos Claudia , Matioda Hiral , Maharaj Nirvarthi , Libhaber Elena , Mamdoo Farouk , Essop Mohammed R.
Published: January 2012

Background—

Isolated left ventricular noncompaction (ILVNC) is a cardiomyopathy caused by intrauterine failure of the myocardium to compact. Common clinical complications are heart failure, arrhythmias, and cardioembolism. A paucity of data exists relating to clinical and echocardiographic features of ILVNC in Africans.

Methods and Results—

This study is a single-center, prospective case-control study, whereby subjects attending a dedicated cardiomyopathy clinic were screened for and diagnosed with ILVNC, provided they had no other associated structural heart disease and fulfilled all the accompanying echocardiographic criteria: (1) end-systolic ratio of noncompacted layer to compacted layer >2, (2) presence of >3 prominent apical trabeculations, and (3) deep intertrabecular recesses that fill with blood from the ventricular cavity visualized using color Doppler ultrasound. Fifty-four subjects were identified, age 45.4±13.1 years (mean±SD), 95% confidence interval 3.6 to 10.2, 55.6% male, and 63.0% New York Health Association Class II, and prevalence of LVNC in our clinic was 6.9%, 95% confidence interval 3.6 to 10.2. Heart failure because of systolic dysfunction was the most common clinical presentation (53 subjects, 98.1%). Left ventricular end-diastolic diameter was 61.4±7.2 mm (mean±SD) and ejection fraction 26.7±11.9% (mean±SD). Common sites of noncompaction were the apical (100%), midinferior (74.1%), and midlateral (64.8%) walls. Right ventricular noncompaction occurred in 12 subjects (22.2%). Pulmonary hypertension was documented in 45 cases (83.3%). Right ventricular dilation was noted in 40 subjects (74.1%), while right ventricular function was depressed in 32 (59.3%). Tricuspid S' was 9.6±2.8 cm/s (mean±SD). No echocardiographic features suggestive of ILVNC were noted in a healthy control group of African descent.

Conclusions—

ILVNC in patients of African descent can be characterized by biventricular abnormality and pulmonary hypertension, in addition to isolated left-sided abnormality.
Get With The Guidelines Program Participation, Process of Care, and Outcome for Medicare Patients Hospitalized With Heart Failure
Authors: Heidenreich Paul A. , Hernandez Adrian F. , Yancy Clyde W. , Liang Li , Peterson Eric D. , Fonarow Gregg C.
Published: January 2012

Background—

Hospitals enrolled in the American Heart Association's Get With The Guidelines Program for heart failure (GWTG-HF) have improved their process of care. However, it is unclear if process of care and outcomes are better in the GWTG-HF hospitals compared with hospitals not enrolled.

Methods and Results—

We compared hospitals enrolled in GWTG-HF from 2006 to 2007 with other hospitals using data on 4 process of heart failure care measures, 5 noncardiac process measures, risk-adjusted 30-day mortality, and 30-day all-cause readmission after a heart failure hospitalization, as reported by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Among the 4460 hospitals reporting data to CMS, 215 (5%) were enrolled in GWTG-HF. Of the 4 CMS heart failure performance measures, GWTG-HF hospitals had significantly higher documentation of the left ventricular ejection fraction (93.4% versus 88.8%), use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor antagonist (88.3% versus 86.6%), and discharge instructions (74.9% versus 70.5%) (
P
<0.005 for all). Smoking cessation counseling rates were similar (94.1% versus 94.0%;
P
=0.51). There was no significant difference in compliance with noncardiac process of care. After heart failure discharge, all-cause readmission at 30 days was 24.5% and mortality at 30 days after admission was 11.1%. After adjustment for hospital characteristics, 30-day mortality rates were no different (
P
=0.45). However, 30-day readmission was lower for GWTG hospitals (−0.33%; 95% CI, −0.53% to −0.12%;
P
=0.002).

Conclusions—

Although there was evidence that hospitals enrolled in the GTWG-HF program demonstrated better processes of care than other hospitals, there were few clinically important differences in outcomes. Further identification of opportunities to improve outcomes, and inclusion of these metrics in GTWG-HF, may further support the value of GTWG-HF in improving care for patients with HF.
Bivalirudin Therapy Is Associated With Improved Clinical and Economic Outcomes in ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: Results From an Observational Database
Authors: Pinto Duane S. , Ogbonnaya Augustina , Sherman Steven A. , Tung Patricia , Normand Sharon-Lise T.
Published: January 2012

Background—

Randomized trials show improved outcomes among acute coronary syndrome patients treated with bivalirudin. The objective of this analysis was to compare clinical and economic outcomes in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients encountered in routine clinical practice undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI), treated with bivalirudin or heparin+GP IIb/IIIa receptor inhibitor (heparin+GPI).

Methods and Results—

STEMI admissions from January 1, 2004 through March 31, 2008 among patients receiving PPCI and bivalirudin or heparin+GPI in the Premier hospital database were identified. The probability of receiving bivalirudin was estimated using individual and hospital variables; using propensity scores, each bivalirudin patient was matched to 3 heparin+GPI treated patients. The primary outcome was in-hospital death. Rates of bleeding, transfusion, length of stay, and in-hospital cost were secondary outcomes. There were 59 917 STEMI PPCIs receiving bivalirudin (n=6735) or heparin+GPI (n=53 182). Seventy-nine percent of bivalirudin patients matched, resulting in 21 316 STEMI PPCIs for analysis. Compared with heparin+GPI patients, bivalirudin patients had fewer deaths (3.2% versus 4.0%;
P
=0.011) and less inpatient bleeding (clinically apparent bleeding [6.9% versus 10.5%,
P
<0.0001], clinically apparent bleeding with transfusion [1.6% versus 3.0%,
P
<0.0001], and transfusion [5.9% versus 7.6%,
P
<0.0001]). Patients receiving bivalirudin had shorter average length of stay (mean 4.3 versus 4.5 days;
P
<0.0001), with lower in-hospital cost (mean $18 640 versus $19 967 [median $14 462 versus $16 003],
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions—

This large “real-world” retrospective analysis demonstrates that bivalirudin therapy compared with heparin+GPI is associated with a lower rate of inpatient death, inpatient bleeding, and decreased overall in-hospital cost in STEMI patients undergoing PPCI.
Care and Outcomes of Asian-American Acute Myocardial Infarction Patients: Findings From the American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines-Coronary Artery Disease Program
Authors: Qian Feng , Ling Frederick S. , Deedwania Prakash , Hernandez Adrian F. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Cannon Christopher P. , Peterson Eric D. , Peacock W. Frank , Kaltenbach Lisa A. , Laskey Warren K. , Schwamm Lee H. , Bhatt Deepak L.
Published: January 2012

Background—

Asian-Americans represent an important United States minority population, yet there are limited data regarding the clinical care and outcomes of Asian-Americans following acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Using data from the American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines-Coronary Artery Disease (GWTG-CAD) program, we compared use of and trends in evidence-based care AMI processes and outcome in Asian-American versus white patients.

Methods and Results—

We analyzed 107 403 AMI patients (4412 Asian-Americans, 4.1%) from 382 United States centers participating in the Get With The Guidelines-Coronary Artery Disease program between 2003 and 2008. Use of 6 AMI performance measures, composite “defect-free” care (proportion receiving all eligible performance measures), door-to-balloon time, and in-hospital mortality were examined. Trends in care over this time period were explored. Compared with whites, Asian-American AMI patients were significantly older, more likely to be covered by Medicaid and recruited in the west region, and had a higher prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, heart failure, and smoking. In-hospital unadjusted mortality was higher among Asian-American patients. Overall, Asian-Americans were comparable with whites regarding the baseline quality of care, except that Asian-Americans were less likely to get smoking cessation counseling (65.6% versus 81.5%). Asian-American AMI patients experienced improvement in the 6 individual measures (
P
≤0.048), defect-free care (
P
<0.001), and door-to-balloon time (
P
<0.001). The improvement rates were similar for both Asian-Americans and whites. Compared with whites, the adjusted in-hospital mortality rate was higher for Asian-Americans (adjusted relative risk: 1.16; 95% confidence interval: 1.00–1.35;
P
=0.04).

Conclusions—

Evidence-based care for AMI processes improved significantly over the period of 2003 to 2008 for Asian-American and white patients in the Get With The Guidelines-Coronary Artery Disease program. Differences in care between Asian-Americans and whites, when present, were reduced over time.
A Comparison of Long-Term Mortality for Off-Pump and On-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Wu Chuntao , Camacho Fabian T. , Culliford Alfred T. , Gold Jeffrey P. , Wechsler Andrew S. , Higgins Robert S.D. , Lahey Stephen J. , Smith Craig R. , Jordan Desmond , Hannan Edward L.
Published: January 2012

Background—

The survival difference between off-pump and on-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery for follow-up longer than 5 years is not well-understood. The objective of this study is to examine the difference in 7-year mortality after these 2 procedures.

Methods and Results—

The state of New York's Cardiac Surgery Reporting System was used to identify the 2640 off-pump and 5940 on-pump patients discharged from July through December 2000. The National Death Index was used to ascertain patients' vital statuses through 2007. A logistic regression model was fit to predict the probability of receiving an off-pump procedure using baseline patient characteristics. Off-pump and on-pump patients were matched with a 1:1 ratio based on the probability of receiving an off-pump procedure. Kaplan-Meier survival curves for the 2 procedures were compared using the propensity-matched data, and the hazard ratio for death for off-pump in comparison with on-pump procedures was obtained. In subgroup analyses, the significance of interactions between type of surgery and baseline risk factors was tested. In this study, 2631 pairs of off-pump and on-pump patients were propensity matched. The 7-year Kaplan-Meier survival rates were 71.2% and 73.4% (
P
=0.07) for off-pump and on-pump surgery, respectively. The hazard ratio for death (off-pump versus on-pump) was 1.10 (95% confidence interval: 0.99 to 1.21,
P
=0.07). No statistical significance was detected for the interaction terms between the type of surgery and a number of different baseline risk factors.

Conclusions—

The difference in long-term mortality between on-pump and off-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery is not statistically significant.
Long-Term Survival and Unnatural Deaths of Patients With Repaired Tetralogy of Fallot in an Asian Cohort
Authors: Chiu Shuenn-Nan , Wang Jou-Kou , Chen Hui-Chi , Lin Ming-Tai , Wu En-Ting , Chen Chun-An , Huang Shu-Chien , Chang Chung-I , Chen Yih-Sharng , Chiu Ing-Sh , Chen Chi-Ling , Wu Mei-Hwan
Published: January 2012

Background—

Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is the most common cyanotic congenital heart disease in Taiwan. This study investigates the long-term survival and risks of TOF in an Asian cohort.

Methods and Results—

This study enrolled 819 consecutive patients with TOF (61.1% male), who received total correction between 1970 and 2002, as participants. Patient medical records were reviewed, and the survival status of those out of contact was confirmed by death records retrieved from the National Health database. The mean (±SD) patient age at cardiac repair was 6.5±7.6 years, and a prior shunt operation was performed in 119 (14.5%) of the patients. At cardiac repair, a transannular patch for right ventricle outlet reconstruction was required in 444 (54.2%) of the patients. After 13 808 patient-years of follow-up, the 30-year survival rate was 90.5%. The annual mortality rate increased from 0.123% in the initial 15 years after repair to 0.395% thereafter (
P
<0.05). The presence of major aortopulmonary collateral arteries, older operative age, and previous shunt operation are independent risks of late cardiac deaths. Secondary to cardiac mortality, unnatural deaths (accident and suicide) accounted for 27.6% of late deaths, significantly higher compared with that of the general population (odds ratio, 2.18;
P
=0.028).

Conclusions—

In this Asian TOF cohort, except for a late decrease after 15 years, long-term survival after cardiac repair was satisfactory. Although cardiac death was the most common cause of late death, accidents or suicide may also be associated with late mortality, suggesting a potential role for psychosocial support.
The ‘Gift’ of Help: Domestic Helpers and the Maintenance of Hierarchy in the Household Division of Labour
Authors: Groves Julian M , Lui Lake
Published: January 2012

Based on in-depth interviews with 24 working couples who hire domestic helpers in Hong Kong, this article examines the hiring of help as an instance of unequal social exchange in which mothers are expected to give up more than fathers. Men view hiring help as a contractual service and as a ‘gift’ to their wives that allows them to ‘buy out’ of housework and childcare. Women, however, are likely to supplement their helper’s contributions with their own labour since they view hired help as ‘less-than-optimal’ childcare. They also feel responsible for the supervision and emotional needs of their helpers by treating them as ‘part of the family’. By examining the gendered meanings attached to paid domestic help, we show how men and women reproduce the traditional division of labour in the home when hiring domestic helpers, rather than relieving the tensions that working mothers face between paid employment and childcare.
The Intergenerational Transmission of Islam in England and Wales: Evidence from the Citizenship Survey
Authors: Scourfield Jonathan , Taylor Chris , Moore Graham , Gilliat-Ray Sophie
Published: January 2012

If secularization is increasing over time, this should be observable in patterns of religiosity across the generations. The Home Office Citizenship Survey (of adults in England and Wales) and its accompanying Young People’s Survey provide a relatively rare example of individual-level and intergenerational British data on religious transmission, with indications of religious affiliation or practice across three generations. Secondary analysis was conducted on the 2003 data, looking at religious transmission in four groups: Christians, Muslims, those from non-Christian non-Muslim religions and those with no religion. Associations between religious transmission and a range of social factors are presented, with these including ethnicity, gender, country of birth and socio-economic characteristics. The data suggest a complex pattern of religious transmission over the three generations and a higher transmission of Islam than any of the other religious categories. There is, therefore, a focus on Islam in the presentation and discussion of the data analysis.
Climate Change and Society: The Chimera of Behaviour Change Technologies
Authors: Webb Janette
Published: January 2012

Our dependence on energy from fossil fuels is causing potentially disastrous global warming and posing fundamental questions about the commensurability of consumer capitalism and a sustainable society. UK and Scottish governments have taken a lead in climate change legislation intended to avoid worst-case scenarios through low carbon transition. There are, however, considerable uncertainties about whether individualized, market-driven, materialistic societies can manage such radical transformations. Policies to cut household emissions focus on behaviour change through social marketing and incremental modifications to consumption. This technocratic model produces very little societal change, and seems likely to be self-defeating. The framing of the problem as one of behavioural adjustments to individual self-interest obscures alternative understandings of society as a collective accomplishment. Through simultaneous ‘knowing and not knowing’ about unsustainable consumerism, a behavioural model allows governing to proceed, while marginalizing awkward questions about the contradictions between economic growth and low carbon transitions.
RETRACTED: Postmodern public administration theory: from Weber to the present day and back again?
Authors: Papadoulis Konstantinos J.
Published: January 2012

Postmodern public administration theory: from Weber to the present day and back again?, Papadoulis, K. Teaching Public Administration 2005 25(2) p 15-28 doi: 10.1177/014473940502500202 has been retracted. This is because in the opinion of the editors and the publisher, the article plagiarizes Bureaucracy: Is it efficient? Is it not? Is that the question? Uncertainty reduction: An ignored element of bureaucratic rationality, Gajduschek, G, Administration and Society 2003 34(6) p 700-723 doi: 10.1177/0095399702239171 to which readers are encouraged to refer. Teaching Public Administration and SAGE wish to express sincere regret to Gyorgy Gajduschek and to readers over this matter.
Whey‐ vs Casein‐Based Enteral Formula and Gastrointestinal Function in Children With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Savage Karina , Kritas Stamatiki , Schwarzer Andrea , Davidson Geoffrey , Omari Taher
Published: January 2012

Objectives: Children with severe cerebral palsy (CP) commonly have gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction. Whey‐based enteral formulas have been postulated to reduce gastroesophageal reflux (GOR) and accelerate gastric emptying (GE). The authors investigated whether whey‐based (vs casein‐based) enteral formulas reduce GOR and accelerate GE in children who have severe CP with a gastrostomy and fundoplication. Methods: Thirteen children received a casein‐based formula for 1 week and either a 50% whey whole protein (50% WWP) or a 100% whey partially hydrolyzed protein (100% WPHP) formula for 1 week. Reflux episodes, gastric half‐emptying time (GE t1/2), and reported pain and GI symptoms were measured. Results: Whey formulas emptied significantly faster than casein (median [interquartile range (IQR)] GE t1/2, 33.9 [25.3‐166.2] min vs 56.6 [46‐191] min; P = .033). Reflux parameters were unchanged. GI symptoms were lower in children who received 50% WWP (visual analog symptom score, median [IQR], 0 [0‐11.8]) vs 100% WPHP (13.0 [2.5‐24.8]) (P = .035). Conclusion: This pilot study shows that in children who have severe CP with a gastrostomy and fundoplication, GE of the whey‐based enteral formula is significantly faster than casein. The acceleration in GE does not alter GOR frequency, and there appears to be no effect of whey vs casein in reducing acid, nonacid, and total reflux episodes. The results indicate that enteral formula selection may be particularly important for children with severe CP and delayed GE.
Effects of Prebiotic‐Containing Infant Formula on Gastrointestinal Tolerance and Fecal Microbiota in a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Holscher Hannah D. , Faust Kristin L. , Czerkies Laura A. , Litov Richard , Ziegler Ekhard E. , Lessin Herschel , Hatch Terry , Sun Shumei , Tappenden Kelly A.
Published: January 2012

Background: Prebiotic‐containing infant formula may beneficially affect gastrointestinal tolerance and commensal microbiota composition. Objective: Assess gastrointestinal tolerance and fecal microbiota, pH, and short‐chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations of infants consuming formula with or without prebiotics. Design: Full‐term formula‐fed infants were studied to a breastfed comparison group (BF). Formula‐fed infants (FF) were randomized to consume a partially hydrolyzed whey formula with (PRE) or without (CON) 4 g/L of galacto‐oligosaccharides and fructo‐oligosaccharides (9:1). Fecal bacteria, pH, and SCFA were assessed at baseline, 3 weeks, and 6 weeks. Caregivers of patients recorded stool characteristics and behavior for 2 days before the 3‐ and 6‐week visits. Results: Feces from infants fed PRE had a higher absolute number (P = .0083) and proportion (P = .0219) of bifidobacteria than CON‐fed infants and did not differ from BF. BF had a higher proportion of bifidobacteria than CON (P = .0219) and lower number of Clostridium difficile than FF (P = .0087). Feces from formula‐fed infants had higher concentrations of acetate (P < .001), butyrate (P < .001), propionate (P < .001), and total SCFAs (P = .0230) than BF; however, fecal pH was lower (P = .0161) in PRE and BF than CON. Prebiotic supplementation did not alter stool patterns, tolerance, or growth. BF had more frequent stools that were yellow (P < .0001) and more often liquid than FF (P < .0001). Conclusions: Infant formula containing the studied oligosaccharides was well tolerated, increased abundance and proportion of bifidobacteria, and reduced fecal pH in healthy infants.
Bifidobacterium lactis Bb12 Enhances Intestinal Antibody Response in Formula‐Fed Infants
Authors: Holscher Hannah D. , Czerkies Laura A. , Cekola Pamela , Litov Richard , Benbow Marshall , Santema Sheryl , Alexander Dominik D. , Perez Vanessa , Sun Shumei , Saavedra José M. , Tappenden Kelly A.
Published: January 2012

Background: Addition of probiotics to infant formula may positively affect immune function in nonexclusively breastfed infants. This study aimed to investigate the effect of infant starter formula containing the probiotic Bifidobacterium animalis subspecies lactis (Bb12) on intestinal immunity and inflammation. Methods: Six‐week‐old healthy, full‐term infants (n = 172) were enrolled in a prospective, randomized, double‐blind, controlled clinical trial with 2 groups studied in parallel to a breastfed comparison group. Formula‐fed (FF) infants were randomized to partially hydrolyzed whey formula (CON) or the same formula containing 106 colony‐forming units (CFU) Bb12/g (PRO) for 6 weeks. Fecal secretory IgA (sIgA), calprotectin, lactate, and stool pH were assessed at baseline, 2 weeks, and 6 weeks. Anti‐poliovirus‐specific IgA and anti‐rotavirus‐specific IgA were assessed at 2 and 6 weeks. Results: Among vaginally delivered FF infants, PRO consumption increased (P < .05) fecal sIgA compared to CON. Anti‐poliovirus‐specific IgA concentration increased (P < .05) in all infants consuming PRO, whereas anti‐rotavirus‐specific IgA tended to increase (P = .056) with PRO consumption in cesarean‐delivered infants. Anthropometrics and tolerance did not differ significantly between FF infants. Conclusions: Infants consuming formula with Bb12 produced feces with detectable presence of Bb12 and augmented sIgA concentration. Furthermore, cesarean‐delivered infants consuming Bb12 had heightened immune response, as evidenced by increased anti‐rotavirus‐ and anti‐poliovirus‐specific IgA following immunization. These results demonstrate that negative immune‐related effects of not breastfeeding and cesarean delivery can be mitigated by including Bb12 in infant formula, thereby providing infants a safe, dietary, immune‐modulating bacterial introduction.
Residential Context, Social Relationships, and Subjective Well-Being in Assisted Living
Authors: Street Debra , Burge Stephanie Woodham
Published: January 2012

Adaptive reframing and cumulative inequality theory provide the conceptual framework for investigating associations between four measures of subjective well-being (general, temporal, comparative, and experiential), residential context, and social relationships. Data from 344 cognitively intact assisted living (AL) residents aged 60 years and older interviewed for the Florida Study of Assisted Living were analyzed using logistic regression. Having control over the AL transition, often associated with socioeconomic status, was positively associated with all four dimensions of subjective well-being, consistent with a cumulative inequality framework. Other residential context characteristics (living arrangements prior to AL, private pay, size, licensure status) were less consistently associated with well-being. High-quality staff relationships were associated with temporal well-being, while positive coresident relationships were associated with all four well-being indicators. Compared with preexisting external relationships with family and friends, and consistent with adaptive reframing, social relationships unique to AL were independently and more consistently associated with residents’ perceptions of subjective well-being.
Living Apart (or) Together? Coresidence of Elderly Parents and Their Adult Children in Europe
Authors: Isengard Bettina , Szydlik Marc
Published: January 2012

Coresidence of elderly parents and adult children is a special form of intergenerational relations that is not uncommon in European societies. Why do adult children and parents live together? In what way do individual characteristics, family structures, and cultural contexts play a crucial role? How can differences between countries be explained? Are there discrepancies between adult generations sharing the same household and those who live in separate homes within the same building (“near coresidence”)? The empirical analyses reported in this article are based on the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe. The findings prove the importance of individual needs and opportunities of children and parents as well as the relevance of family structures. Country comparisons show that welfare-state arrangements have a substantial effect. In fact, coresidence appears to be a response to economic insecurities at both individual and societal levels.
Resident-Centered Job Satisfaction and Turnover Intent Among Direct Care Workers in Assisted Living
Authors: Chou Rita Jing-Ann
Published: January 2012

Long-term care in the United States has been plagued with high turnover among direct care workers (DCWs). Previous qualitative and descriptive studies have suggested that resident-centered job satisfaction deters DCW turnover. Related DCW recruitment strategies have also been promoted. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of resident-centered job satisfaction on DCW turnover intent, a proven predictor of actual turnover. Using content analysis, t tests, χ2 tests, and logistic regression analyses, the author analyzes both qualitative and quantitative data from a survey of 722 DCWs at 108 assisted living facilities. Qualitative analyses indicate that for some DCWs, resident-centered job satisfaction deters turnover intent. The quantitative analyses, however, show that resident-centered job satisfaction has no effect on turnover intent, except that DCWs with high resident-centered job satisfaction are less likely to apply for another job in long-term care. In addition to policy implications, theoretical implications related to psychic income, prisoner of love, and caring labor are discussed.
A hybrid approach to detecting alerts in Arabic e-mail messages
Authors: Al-Radaideh Qasem A. , AlEroud Ahmed F. , Al-Shawakfa Emad M.
Published: January 2012

Detecting alert e-mails received daily by millions of subscribers from online news providers is a relatively new area of research which falls within the e-mail filtering field of research. Alert e-mails may address government, political issues, breaking news, and criminal attacks. This article proposes a hybrid approach based on both the Graham statistical filter and rule-based filters to detect and filter Arabic alert e-mails. The approach is basically language-independent. To test the performance of the proposed approach, several experiments have been conducted using a set of 1500 Arabic messages related to criminal activities collected manually from some news websites such as Al-Jazeera Net and BBC Arabic news. The results showed that the proposed approach has achieved a competitive performance in terms of accuracy, precision, and F-measure, where about 87% of the messages tested have been correctly detected and filtered by the proposed filter.
Hegel’s grounding of intersubjectivity in the master–slave dialectic
Authors: Stefan Bird-Pollan
Published: January 2012

In this article I seek to explain Hegel’s significance to contemporary meta-ethics, in particular to Kantian constructivism. I argue that in the master–slave dialectic in the Phenomenology of Spirit, Hegel shows that self-consciousness and intersubjectivity arise at the same time. This point, I argue, shows that there is no problem with taking other people’s reasons to motivate us since reflection on our aims is necessarily also reflection on the needs of those around us. I further explore Hegel’s contribution to the debate about internal and external reasons. I end by arguing that we should understand reasons as historically constructed in the sense that who counts as an intrinsic bearer of value changes over time. I thus argue that the struggle for recognition is in fact the beginning of the long march toward the idea of recognition and the Kantian kingdom of ends. This march, however, is driven by the need to overcome injustice as it is instantiated at the beginning of history by the master’s absolute domination of the slave.
Outcomes of Elective Total Laryngectomy for Laryngopharyngeal Dysfunction in Disease‐Free Head and Neck Cancer Survivors
Authors: Hutcheson Katherine A. , Alvarez Clare P. , Barringer Denise A. , Kupferman Michael E. , Lapine Peter R. , Lewin Jan S.
Published: January 2012

Objective

Total laryngectomy (TL) can be offered for management of chronic aspiration, radionecrosis, and/or airway compromise after head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment. The objective of this study was to evaluate functional outcomes after TL in disease‐free HNC survivors.

Design

Retrospective case series with chart review.

Setting

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Patients

Twenty‐three disease‐free HNC survivors who underwent TL for laryngopharyngeal dysfunction.

Intervention

TL ± pharyngectomy.

Main Outcome Measures

Post‐TL swallowing‐related (diet, gastrostomy dependence, and pneumonia rates) and communication outcomes.

Results

All patients who underwent TL for dysfunction were previously treated with radiotherapy (12/23, 52%) or chemoradiotherapy (11/23, 48%). Preoperative complications included aspiration (22/23, 96%), pneumonia (16/23, 70%), tracheostomy (9/23, 39%), and stricture (7/23, 30%); 17 patients (74%) required enteral/parenteral nutrition, and 13 of 23 (57%) were nothing per oral (NPO). Rates of pneumonia, NPO status, and feeding tube dependence significantly decreased after TL (P <. 001). At last follow‐up after TL, all patients tolerated oral intake, but 4 (17%) required supplemental enteral nutrition. Continued smoking after radiotherapy and a preoperative history of recurrent pneumonia were significantly (P <. 05) associated with final tube dependence and/or diet level. Sixteen patients (70%) underwent tracheoesophageal (TE) puncture, and 57% (13 of 23) communicated using TE voice after TL.

Conclusion

Salvage TL may improve health status by significantly decreasing the rate of pneumonia and improve quality of life by restoring oral intake in patients with refractory laryngopharyngeal dysfunction after HNC treatment. TE voice restoration may enhance functional outcomes in select patients treated with elective TL for dysfunction.
The Correlation Between Nutrition Knowledge and Eating Behavior in an American School: The Role of Ethnicity
Authors: Pirouznia Mahshid
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between nutrition knowledge and eating behavior of a sample of middle school children. The participants were 532 students in the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades from Shawnee Middle School in Lima, Ohio. The students were asked to a complete a questionnaire (CANKAP—Comprehensive Assessment of Nutrition Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices), which measured nutrition knowledge and eating behavior, and is reproduced here.

The data were coded and computer-analyzed using the SAS statistical program for analysis by frequency distribution, one-way analysis of variance, Pearson Correlation Coefficients. Data analysis provided the following results: Mean nutrition knowledge scores of sixth grade students (68.4) were higher than mean nutrition knowledge scores of seventh and eighth grade students (58.5 per cent). The relationship between nutrition knowledge and eating behavior was insignificant for sixth grade students, but significant for seventh and eighth grade students. Also, “Caucasians” had higher mean knowledge scores than “Other” ethnic groups combined. The students demonstrated knowledge about the cultural and psychological aspects of nutrition. However, they were not able to identify the food sources of nutrients or nutrient functions, and they did not use a daily food guide to choose foods, although they were aware of the importance of milk and vegetable consumption. Knowledge about nutrition and healthy eating behavior appears to be weak within this group, and it would be beneficial to promote a nutrition curriculum for students in middle schools.
Antinutrients and Digestibility (in vitro) of Soaked, Dehulled and Germinated Cowpeas
Authors: Preet Komal , Punia Darshan
Published: January 2012

Phytic acid, polyphenols, protein and starch digestibility (in vitro) in two varieties, namely CS-46 and CS-88, of soaked, dehulled and germinated cowpeas were determined. Soaking for 12 hours, dehulling of soaked seeds and germination for different time periods (24, 36 and 48 h) contributed significantly in reducing the phytic acid and polyphenol content of cowpeas. Removal of seed coat (dehulling) of soaked cowpeas reduced the polyphenols by 70–71 %. Soaking (12 h) brought about an improvement in protein and starch digestibility which further increased after dehulling. Progressive increase in digestibility (protein and starch) was noticed, with an increase in germination period. Dehulling of soaked seeds was most effective in reducing the polyphenolic content, and germination in enhancing protein and starch digestibility.
Breastfeeding and Weaning Practices in Bahrain: The Role of Mothers' Education
Authors: Musaiger Abdulrahman O. , Abdulkhalek Nahed
Published: January 2012

This rapid assessment survey was undertaken to find out the current practices of infant feeding in Bahrain and the impact of educational level of the mothers on these practices. A total sample of 200 Bahraini mothers of children less than 2 years were interviewed in the health centers. The age of mothers ranged from 18 to 47 years. About one third of mothers (39.8%) initiated breastfeeding at the first hour of delivery, and there was no significant association between education of mothers and initiating of breastfeeding. Most infants were placed in the same bed as their mothers (71%), however the proportion was lower among infants with high education (61.8%) compared to low (73.7%) and middle (72.5%) education mothers. The introduction of foods during the first 3 days of the infant's life as well as the practising of breastfeeding on schedule increased with the increased of educational level of mothers. Highly educated mothers tended to introduce rice, wheat, infant formula and fruit at an earlier age of the infant's life than other education groups. The study demonstrates an improvement in infant feeding practices during the last decade. However, the practice of sound infant feeding was less among highly educated mothers when compared to low and middle education mothers. This is mainly due to socio-economic factors rather than lack of awareness.
Reducing Waiting Lists for Hospital Admission: Community Nutrition Services Reduce the Need for Hospital Beds
Authors: Wynn Margaret , Wynn Arthur
Published: January 2012

The number of hospital beds needed is greatly increased by the malnutrition of patients before admission and after discharge. Malnourished patients spend longer in hospital and are more likely to die following surgery or other treatment. Extensive studies show that low blood serum albumin, indicating protein deficiency, is a major risk factor for morbidity and mortality among hospital patients. Community food and nutrition services are extending throughout the developed world as part of public health policies. Such services can reduce costs by reducing the need for hospital beds, can reduce waiting lists and save the lives of many hospital patients. Preventive nutrition services can give financial benefits much exceeding costs.
Development, Acceptability and Nutritional Evaluation of ‘Doli Ki Roti’—An Indigenously Fermented Bread
Authors: Bhatia Anshu , Khetarpaul Neelam
Published: January 2012

‘ Doli Ki Roti’—an indigenously fermented bread popular among the Indian Punjabi community who migrated from Pakistan during partition, is a wheat based product having spiced chickpea as stuffing. It contains a good blend of cereal and legume protein (14.5 to 17.1 %), fat (7.3 to 9.2%) and ash (3.8 to 4.7%). It is a good source of dietary essential minerals, i.e. calcium (52.7 to 62.6 mg/100 g), iron (8.7 to 10.6 mg/100 g) and phosphorus (313.8 to 346.7 mg/100 g). The antinutrients like phytic acid and trypsin inhibitors are present in considerable amounts in the unfermented bread but are reduced to the extent of 5 to 18% (phytic acid) and 49 to 70% (trypsin inhibitors) due to the fermentation carried out at 35 and 40°C for varying time periods. The products developed were organoleptically acceptable in terms of colour, taste, texture, flavour, etc.
The Effect of Intrauterine Growth Restriction on the Development and Health of Children
Authors: Fattal-Valevski A. , Leitner Y. , Geva R. , Bassan H. , Goez H. , Jaffa A.J. , Harel S.
Published: January 2012

The neurodevelopmental and cognitive outcome of long-term Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) has been followed up from pregnancy to school age at the Tel Aviv Child Development Centre.
Cognitive and Visual Development: Influence of Differences in Breast and Formula Fed Infants
Authors: Agostoni Carlo , Giovannini Marcello
Published: January 2012

Several recent studies document a beneficial effect of breast-feeding on later neurodevelopmental outcomes. The mechanisms involved are still in need of elucidation, but evidence is accruing that the fatty acid (FA) composition of human milk plays a role. The composition of body fats, from circulating erythrocyte lipids to brain phospholipids, is linked in infants to the early feeding mode and which FA predominates among circulating lipids influences visual and neurodevelopmental performance test scores. In these studies, greater differences were found between breast-fed and standard formula-fed infants, the latter showing low tissue long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA: arachidonic acid, AA, 20:4n-6; eicosapentaenoic acid, EPA, 20:5n-3; docosahexaenoic acid, DHA, 22:6n-3) accretion and lower visual and neurodevelopmental test scores. Human milk contains LCPUFA, while most available formulas, especially those intended for full-term infants, do not. With the progressive introduction of solid foods, the question arises whether a specific or “ideal” dietary lipid mixture can be found to meet growth requirements and ensure a lipid balance adequate for the early and effective preventive purposes. These complementary aspects are challenges for the paediatric nutrition researcher today.
An Advanced Artificial Intelligence Tool for Menu Design
Authors: Khan Abdus Salam , Hoffmann Achim
Published: January 2012

The computer-assisted menu design still remains a difficult task. Usually knowledge that aids in menu design by a computer is hard-coded and because of that a computerised menu planner cannot handle the menu design problem for an unanticipated client. To address this problem we developed a menu design tool, MIKAS (menu construction using incremental knowledge acquisition system), an artificial intelligence system that allows the incremental development of a knowledge-base for menu design. We allow an incremental knowledge acquisition process in which the expert is only required to provide hints to the system in the context of actual problem instances during menu design using menus stored in a so-called Case Base.

Our system incorporates Case-Based Reasoning (CBR), an Artificial Intelligence (AI) technique developed to mimic human problem solving behaviour. Ripple Down Rules (RDR) are a proven technique for the acquisition of classification knowledge from expert directly while they are using the system, which complement CBR in a very fruitful way. This combination allows the incremental improvement of the menu design system while it is already in routine use.

We believe MIKAS allows better dietary practice by leveraging a dietitian's skills and expertise. As such MIKAS has the potential to be helpful for any institution where dietary advice is practised.
The Influence of Teent (Capparis decidua) on Human Plasma Triglycerides, Total Lipids and Phospholipids
Authors: Goyal Rajni , Grewal R.B.
Published: January 2012

Teent is an unripe fruit of Ker ( Capparis decidua) a xerophytic bush. It contains 15.1% protein and 42.88% fibre. Being a rich source of fibre, the process for preparation of teent powder and other recipes were standardized for feeding hyperlipidemic subjects. The diet of 15 hyperlipidemic adults (40–60 yrs.) was supplemented with teent for three months and plasma triglycerides, total lipids and phospholipids were analysed before and at the end of the experiment. Significant reductions in plasma triglycerides, total lipids and phospholipids concentration were noticed.
The Nature and Importance of Our Prehistoric Diet
Authors: Withnell Allan
Published: January 2012

Because our digestive system has not basically changed since prehistoric times it is suggested that it would be best for our health if our diet conformed as nearly as possible to that of our hunter-gatherer ancestors. Reasons are given for indicating that their diet was mainly plant based and uncooked. The paper is necessarily speculative and comments and criticisms are invited.
Dynamics of the Iodine-goitrogen Balance in the Thyroid Status of Catfish from Selected Fresh and Brackish Water Bodies
Authors: Akindahunsi A.A. , Salawu S.O. , Adu O.C.
Published: January 2012

The study was designed to investigate the dynamics of the goitrogen-iodine balance in Igbokoda brackish and Ogbese fresh water bodies in Ondo State, Nigeria. The parameters determined include iodine, thiocyanate, chloride, nitrate, calcium, magnesium hardness, calcium hardness, total hardness, and total coliform counts in water, sediment and/or fish (flesh and serum). The fish were subjected to a number of treatments (boiling with water or sodium chloride solution, frying or roasting) prior to analysis. The iodine level (μg I/100g) in the flesh of fish varied with size, treatment and location; it increased with size, was reduced by some treatments (boiling with either water or NaCl solution), while frying and roasting did not affect the level. The least values were 93.45 (Ogbese fish boiled with NaCl solution) and 160.94 (Igbokoda fish boiled with either water or NaCl solution). On the whole, Igbokoda (160.94–314.08) had higher values than Ogbese (93.45–205.06). Serum iodine (μg I/100mL) was equally higher in Igbokoda (5.00–9.00) compared to Ogbese (2.80–5.00). Only the large sized fish of Ogbese recorded a value of 5.00 μmol/L for thiocyanate while this parameter was not detected in other samples. The calculated I/goitrogen ratios (I/Ca, I/NO3, I/Cl and I/SCN) were higher for Igbokoda water than Ogbese water with the exception of I/Mg. This was equally reinforced by the total count of coliforms (goitrogenic), which was higher in Ogbese (3.0 × 103) than in Igbokoda (2.7 × 103). These results indicate that the Igbokoda brackish water body would be a better source of iodine than Ogbese fresh water body for the population dependent on them.
Health Benefits of Selected Global Breastfeeding Recommendations among Children 0–6 Months in Nigeria
Authors: Torimiro S.E.A. , Onayade A.A. , Olumese I. , Makanjuola R.O.A.
Published: January 2012

The survey examined the appropriateness of selected global breastfeeding recommendations in an environment where the recommendations contradicted local knowledge and culture. Specifically, the survey assessed the implications of pre-lacteal feeding, feeding of colostrum, exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life and the use of feeding bottles for child health.

Eligible mother-infant pairs were recruited for the survey by cluster sampling technique. Data was collected about the mother—infant pairs with the aid of a pre-designed questionnaire that sought information on the social and demographic characteristics of the mothers and infants, current breastfeeding practices and illnesses that the index infants had in the 2 weeks preceding the survey day. Information was canvassed from 2466 mother—infant pairs. All the infants were aged 0–6 months. Compliance with the selected recommendations were: 74.4% reported exclusive breastfeeding; 87.5% did not give pre-lacteal feeds, 78.3% were not using feeding bottles while 92.9 gave colostrum. Mothers who reported compliance with the recommendations also reported fewer episodes of the common signs of illnesses surveyed.

The study confirmed the appropriateness and relevance of the selected recommendations in the study area.