bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Culture in International Relationship Marketing
Authors: Samaha Stephen A. , Beck Joshua T. , Palmatier Robert W.
Published: May 2014

International relationships are increasingly critical to business performance. Yet despite a recent surge in international research on relationship marketing (RM), it is unclear whether or how RM should be adapted across cultures. The authors adopt Hofstede's dimensions of culture to conduct a comprehensive, multivariate, metaregression analysis of 47,864 relationships across 170 studies, 36 countries, and six continents. To guide theory, they propose four tenets that parsimoniously capture the essence of culture's effects on RM. Study 1 affirms these tenets and emphasizes the importance of taking a fine-grained perspective to understand the role of culture in RM because of the high degree of heterogeneity across different cultural dimensions and RM linkages. For example, the magnitude of individualism's effect is 71% greater on RM than other cultural dimensions, whereas masculinity has almost no effect; however, accounting only for individualism ignores significant moderating effects of power distance and uncertainty avoidance dimensions. To guide managers, Study 2 adopts a country-level approach and reveals that RM is much more effective outside the United States such that relationships are 55% more effective, on average, for increasing business performance in Brazil, Russia, India, and China.
Role of ghrelin in fertilization, early embryo development, and implantation periods
Authors: Luque Eugenia Mercedes , Torres Pedro Javier , de Loredo Nicolás , Vincenti Laura María , Stutz Graciela , Santillán María Emilia , Ruiz Rubén Daniel , de Cuneo Marta Fiol , Martini Ana Carolina
Published: May 2014

In order to clarify the physiological role of ghrelin in gestation, we evaluated the effects of administration of exogenous ghrelin (2 or 4 nmol/animal per day) or its antagonist (6 nmol/animal per day of (d-Lys3)GHRP6) on fertilization, early embryo development, and implantation periods in mice. Three experiments were performed, treating female mice with ghrelin or its antagonist: i) starting from 1 week before copulation to 12 h after copulation, mice were killed at day 18 of gestation; ii) since ovulation induction until 80 h later, when we retrieved the embryos from oviducts/uterus, and iii) starting from days 3 to 7 of gestation (peri-implantation), mice were killed at day 18. In experiments 1 and 3, the antagonist and/or the highest dose of ghrelin significantly increased the percentage of atrophied fetuses and that of females exhibiting this finding or a higher amount of corpora lutea compared with fetuses (nCL/nF) (experiment 3: higher nCL/nF-atrophied fetuses: ghrelin 4, 71.4–71.4% and antagonist, 75.0–62.5% vs ghrelin 2, 46.2−15.4% and control, 10–0.0%;n=7–13 females/group;P<0.01). In experiment 2, the antagonist diminished the fertilization rate, and both, ghrelin and the antagonist, delayed embryo development (blastocysts: ghrelin 2, 62.5%; ghrelin 4, 50.6%; and antagonist, 61.0% vs control 78.4%;n=82–102 embryos/treatment;P<0.0001). In experiment 3, additionally, ghrelin (4 nmol/day) and the antagonist significantly diminished the weight gain of fetuses and dams during pregnancy. Our results indicate that not only hyperghrelinemia but also the inhibition of the endogenous ghrelin effects exerts negative effects on the fertilization, implantation, and embryo/fetal development periods, supporting the hypothesis that ghrelin (in ‘adequate’ concentrations) has a physiological role in early gestational events.
Accumulation of advanced glycation end products in the rabbit blastocyst under maternal diabetes
Authors: Haucke Elisa , Navarrete Santos Alexander , Simm Andreas , Henning Christian , Glomb Marcus A , Gürke Jacqueline , Schindler Maria , Fischer Bernd , Navarrete Santos Anne
Published: May 2014

Diabetes mellitus (DM) during pregnancy is one of the leading causes of perinatal morbidity and birth defects. The mechanism by which maternal hyperglycemia, the major teratogenic factor, induces embryonic malformations remains unclear. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are known to accumulate during the course of DM and contribute to the development of diabetic complications. Employing a diabetic rabbit model, we investigated the influence of maternal hyperglycemia during the preimplantation period on AGE formation (pentosidine, argpyrimidine, andNε-carboxymethyllysine (CML)) in the reproductive tract and the embryo itself. As a consequence of type 1 DM, the AGE levels in blood plasma increased up to 50%, correlating closely with an AGE accumulation in the endometrium of diabetic females. Embryos from diabetic mothers had increased protein-bound CML levels and showed enhanced fluorescent signals for AGE-specific fluorescence in the blastocyst cavity fluid (BCF). The quantification of CML by HPLC–mass spectrometry (MS/MS) showed a higher amount of soluble CML in the BCF of blastocysts from diabetic rabbits (0.26±0.05 μmol/l) compared with controls (0.18±0.02 μmol/l). The high amount of AGEs in blastocysts from diabetic mothers correlates positively with an increasedAGER(receptor for AGE (RAGE)) mRNA expression. Our study gives alarming insights into the consequences of poorly controlled maternal diabetes for AGE formation in the embryo. Maternal hyperglycemia during the preimplantation period is correlated with an increase in AGE formation in the uterine environment and the embryo itself. This may influence the development of the embryo through increased AGE-mediated cellular stress by RAGEs.
Gender and Generational Influences on the Pediatric Workforce and Practice
Authors: Spector Nancy D. , Cull William , Daniels Stephen R. , Gilhooly Joseph , Hall Judith , Horn Ivor , Marshall Susan G. , Schumacher Daniel J. , Sectish Theodore C. , Stanton Bonita F.
Published: May 2014

In response to demographic and other trends that may affect the future of the field of pediatrics, the Federation of Pediatric Organizations formed 4 working groups to participate in a year’s worth of research and discussion preliminary to a Visioning Summit focusing on pediatric practice, research, and training over the next 2 decades. This article, prepared by members of the Gender and Generations Working Group, summarizes findings relevant to the 2 broad categories of demographic trends represented in the name of the group and explores the interface of these trends with advances in technology and social media and the impact this is likely to have on the field of pediatrics. Available data suggest that the trends in the proportions of men and women entering pediatrics are similar to those over the past few decades and that changes in the overall ratio of men and women will not substantially affect pediatric practice. However, although women may be as likely to succeed in academic medicine and research, fewer women than men enter research, thereby potentially decreasing the number of pediatric researchers as the proportion of women increases. Complex generational differences affect both the workforce and interactions in the workplace. Differences between the 4 generational groups comprising the pediatric workforce are likely to result in an evolution of the role of the pediatrician, particularly as it relates to aspects of work–life balance and the use of technology and social media.
Designing and Conducting Simulation-Based Research
Authors: Cheng Adam , Auerbach Marc , Hunt Elizabeth A. , Chang Todd P. , Pusic Martin , Nadkarni Vinay , Kessler David
Published: May 2014

As simulation is increasingly used to study questions pertaining to pediatrics, it is important that investigators use rigorous methods to conduct their research. In this article, we discuss several important aspects of conducting simulation-based research in pediatrics. First, we describe, from a pediatric perspective, the 2 main types of simulation-based research: (1) studies that assess the efficacy of simulation as a training methodology and (2) studies where simulation is used as an investigative methodology. We provide a framework to help structure research questions for each type of research and describe illustrative examples of published research in pediatrics using these 2 frameworks. Second, we highlight the benefits of simulation-based research and how these apply to pediatrics. Third, we describe simulation-specific confounding variables that serve as threats to the internal validity of simulation studies and offer strategies to mitigate these confounders. Finally, we discuss the various types of outcome measures available for simulation research and offer a list of validated pediatric assessment tools that can be used in future simulation-based studies.
Pediatric Medical Complexity Algorithm: A New Method to Stratify Children by Medical Complexity
Authors: Simon Tamara D. , Cawthon Mary Lawrence , Stanford Susan , Popalisky Jean , Lyons Dorothy , Woodcox Peter , Hood Margaret , Chen Alex Y. , Mangione-Smith Rita
Published: May 2014

OBJECTIVES:

The goal of this study was to develop an algorithm based on International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM), codes for classifying children with chronic disease (CD) according to level of medical complexity and to assess the algorithm’s sensitivity and specificity.

METHODS:

A retrospective observational study was conducted among 700 children insured by Washington State Medicaid with ≥1 Seattle Children’s Hospital emergency department and/or inpatient encounter in 2010. The gold standard population included 350 children with complex chronic disease (C-CD), 100 with noncomplex chronic disease (NC-CD), and 250 without CD. An existing ICD-9-CM–based algorithm called the Chronic Disability Payment System was modified to develop a new algorithm called the Pediatric Medical Complexity Algorithm (PMCA). The sensitivity and specificity of PMCA were assessed.

RESULTS:

Using hospital discharge data, PMCA’s sensitivity for correctly classifying children was 84% for C-CD, 41% for NC-CD, and 96% for those without CD. Using Medicaid claims data, PMCA’s sensitivity was 89% for C-CD, 45% for NC-CD, and 80% for those without CD. Specificity was 90% to 92% in hospital discharge data and 85% to 91% in Medicaid claims data for all 3 groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

PMCA identified children with C-CD (who have accessed tertiary hospital care) with good sensitivity and good to excellent specificity when applied to hospital discharge or Medicaid claims data. PMCA may be useful for targeting resources such as care coordination to children with C-CD.
Reducing Variation in the Use of Inhaled Nitric Oxide
Authors: Simsic Janet M. , Harrison Sheilah , Evans Laura , McClead Richard , Teske Douglas
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Decreasing practice variation and following clinical guidelines improve patient outcomes and reduce costs. Inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) is an effective but expensive treatment of pulmonary hypertension and right heart failure in patients with congenital or acquired heart disease. Our objective was to implement standardized initiation and weaning guidelines for iNO usage in the cardiothoracic ICU (CTICU) to reduce variation in use while maintaining quality patient care.

METHODS:

All CTICU patients who received iNO from January 2011 to December 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. Standardized iNO initiation and weaning guidelines were implemented in January 2012. Variables before and after guideline implementation were compared.

RESULTS:

From January to December 2011, there were 36 separate iNO events (6% of CTICU admissions; n = 547). Mean ± SD iNO usage per event was 159 ± 177 hours (median: 63 hours; range: 27–661 hours). From January to December 2012, there were 47 separate iNO events (8% of CTICU admissions; n = 554). Mean iNO usage per event was 125 ± 134 hours (median: 72 hours; range: 2–557 hours). Initiation guideline compliance improved from 83% to 86% (P = .9); weaning guideline compliance improved from 17% to 79% (P < .001). Although mean iNO usage per event decreased, there was no significant reduction in utilization of iNO (P = .09).

CONCLUSIONS:

Implementation of standardized iNO initiation and weaning guidelines in the CTICU was successful in reducing practice variation supported by increasing guideline compliance. However, decreasing practice variation did not significantly reduce iNO utilization and does not necessarily reduce cost.
Stimulant Treatment of ADHD and Cigarette Smoking: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Schoenfelder Erin N. , Faraone Stephen V. , Kollins Scott H.
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have a significantly higher risk of cigarette smoking. The nature of the relationship between smoking and psychostimulant medications commonly used to treat ADHD is controversial. Our objective was to examine the relationship between stimulant treatment of ADHD and cigarette smoking by using meta-analysis, and to identify study and sample characteristics that moderate this relationship.

METHODS:

Literature searches on PubMed and PsycInfo databases identified published studies for inclusion. Included studies compared cigarette smoking outcomes for stimulant-treated and untreated ADHD individuals. Seventeen studies met inclusion criteria, and 14 (total n = 2360) contained sufficient statistical information for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Two authors extracted odds ratios or frequencies of smokers in the treatment or nontreatment groups, and coded study characteristics including sample source, percentage of male participants, follow-up length, treatment consistency, type of smoking measure, prospective study, and controlling for comorbidities.

RESULTS:

Meta-analysis revealed a significant association between stimulant treatment and lower smoking rates. Meta-regression indicated that effect sizes were larger for studies that used clinical samples, included more women, measured smoking in adolescence rather than adulthood, conceptualized stimulant treatment as consistent over time, and accounted for comorbid conduct disorder.

CONCLUSIONS:

Nearly all studies were naturalistic, precluding causal inferences. Available data were insufficient to examine additional influences of patient demographics, treatment effectiveness, or other comorbidities. Consistent stimulant treatment of ADHD may reduce smoking risk; the effect was larger in samples with more severe psychopathology. Implications for further research, treatment of ADHD, and smoking prevention are discussed.
The quadriga syndrome: a rarely recognized alteration in hand surgery
Authors: Bíró Vilmos
Published: May 2014

The tendons of flexor digitorum profundus are most often interconnected and making them less able to move independently than the superfical tendons. The reason for this is the cross connective tissue-ligamentous connection between the tendons of the profundus. The recognition of this so called quadriga phenomenon is important in the clinical practice, when the presence of this syndrome hinders the strength and the movement of the tendons after the operative reconstruction. In his work the author describes the anatomical bases, the biomechanical relations and the clinical importance of the quadriga syndrome in the mirror of literature data. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(20), 778–782.
Low Frequency Admittance Measurements in the Quantum Hall Regime
Authors: Hernández Carlos , Chaubet Christophe
Published: May 2014

In this paper we present an ac-magneto-transport study of a two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) in the quantum Hall effect (QHE) regime, for frequencies in the range [100Hz, 1MHz]. We present an approach to understand admittance measurements based in the Landauer-Buttiker formalism for QHE edge channels and taking into account the capacitance and the topology of the cables connected to the contacts used in the measurements. Our model predicts an universal behavior with the a-dimensional parameter RHCω where RH is the 2 wires resistance of the 2DEG, C the capacitance cables and the angular frequency, in agreement with experiments. For a specific configuration, we measure the electrochemical capacitance of the quantum Hall edge channels as predicted by Christen and Büttiker.
Nanoscale Characterization of Materials
Authors: Yu Edward T. , Pennycook Stephen J.
Published: May 2014

One of the dominant trends in current research in materials science and related fields is the fabrication, characterization, and application of materials and device structures whose characteristic feature sizes are at or near the nanometer scale. Achieving an understanding of—and ultimately control over—the properties and behavior of a wide range of materials at the nanometer scale has therefore become a major theme in materials research. As our ability to synthesize materials and fabricate structures in this size regime improves, effective characterization of materials at the nanometer scale will continue to increase in importance.

Central to this activity are the development and application of effective experimental techniques for performing characterization of structural, electronic, magnetic, optical, and other properties of materials with nanometer-scale spatial resolution. Two classes of experimental methods have proven to be particularly effective: scanning-probe techniques and electron microscopy. In this issue of MRS Bulletin, we have included eight articles that illustrate the elucidation of various aspects of nanometer-scale material properties using advanced scanningprobe or electron-microscopy techniques. Because the range of both experimental techniques and applications is extremely broad—and rapidly increasing—our intent is to provide several examples rather than a comprehensive treatment of this extremely active and rapidly growing field of research.
Recent Research and Developments Related to Near-Equiatomic Titanium-Platinum Alloys for High-Temperature Applications
Authors: Wadood Abdul , Yamabe-Mitarai Yoko
Published: May 2014

Titanium-platinum (Ti50Pt50) (all compositions in at%) alloy exhibits thermoelastic martensitic phase transformation above 1000°C and has potential for high-temperature shape memory material applications. However, as has been previously reported, Ti50Pt50 alloy exhibited a negligible recovery ratio (0–11%) and low strength in martensite and especially in the austenite phase due to low critical stress for slip deformation. In order to improve the high-temperature strength and shape memory properties, the effects of partial substitution of Ti with other Group 4 elements such as zirconium and hafnium and the effect of partial substitution of Pt with other platinum group metals (pgms) such as iridium and ruthenium on the high-temperature mechanical and shape memory properties of Ti50Pt50 alloy were recently investigated. This paper reviews the transformation temperatures and high-temperature mechanical and shape memory properties of recently developed Ti site substituted (Ti,Zr)50Pt50, (Ti,Hf)50Pt50 and Pt site substituted Ti50(Pt,Ru)50 and Ti50(Pt,Ir)50 alloys for high-temperature (~800°C–1100°C) material applications.
Plant species capacity to drive soil fungal communities contributes to differential impacts of plant–soil legacies
Authors: Lankau Emily W. , Lankau Richard A.
Published: May 2014

Plant–soil feedbacks occur when plants alter soil conditions in ways that influence growth of subsequent plants. We explored the relative contributions of such legacy effects and contemporary interactions in a greenhouse experiment by crossing three soil microbial inocula conditioned by distinct field plant communities with two greenhouse plant treatments (Malva parviflora or Sonchus oleraceus). We evaluated the composition of inocula and final microbial communities after greenhouse cultivation and correlated compositional changes to plant growth. Final bacterial community composition reflected both field and greenhouse plant treatments, but was not associated with greenhouse plant growth. Alternatively, final fungal communities only reflected recent greenhouse plant exposures and were associated with plant growth, albeit differently for the two species. M. parviflora growth correlated with final, but not initial, fungal community composition. S. oleraceus growth correlated with the degree of change between initial and final fungal communities, but only in the highly growth‐suppressive inocula from plots conditioned by plants producing high levels of toxic secondary compounds. Thus, plant sensitivity to microbial legacies can be jointly determined by a plant species' ability to exert selective pressures and the remnant microbial community's responsiveness to plant interactions.
Integrating Delegation into the Undergraduate Curriculum
Authors: Saccomano Scott J. , Zipp Genevieve Pinto
Published: May 2014

One of the essential practice skills for registered nurses (RNs) is the delegation of tasks. However, few experiences in RN educational programs directly address the development of delegation skills. Many RNs report not feeling confident in their ability to delegate appropriately upon completing their educational programs. Nurse educators must respond to the need to address delegation in undergraduate nursing curricula. This article describes research evaluating levels of knowledge of and confidence in the delegation process among newly graduated RNs, and explores options for teachable moments about delegation.
Listening to Patients Changes Clinicians ‘Perspectives and Improves Care
Authors: Vidal Kathleen
Published: May 2014

This article shares strategies of an academic medical center and its system of hospitals in partnering with patients and families to create a climate in which patients, families, and clinicians are comfortable enough to ask questions, suggest alternatives, and even choose to disagree. Relationship-Based Care: A Model for Transforming Practice (Koloroutis, 2004) was instrumental in developing an interdisciplinary relationship-based model of care supported by 4 key processes (admission interview, daily rounds, discharge planning, and follow-up phone calls). These processes—along with patient/family councils, patient/family/staff retreats, patient/family representation on hospital committees, and a patient experience bundle—have proven successful in aligning patient and family expectations with clinicians ‘care delivery, as reflected in Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) scores. A study suggesting the nature of caring as a nurse-driven activity may vary from caring as a patient-driven activity. Inspired engagement with Koloroutis and Trout (2012) See Me as A Person: Creating Therapeutic Relationships with Patients and Their Families; attun-ement, wondering, following, and holding build bridges between clinicians perceptions and knowledge, and patients knowledge and expectations.
Use of a Professional Practice Model to Illuminate the Importance of Relationships
Authors: Johnson Linda , Ezekielian Jamie
Published: May 2014

At the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center—James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC—James), implementation of relationship-based care (RBC) and primary nursing (PN) along with enculturation of the James Nursing professional practice model (PPM), have improved patient and nurse satisfaction. This article describes the importance of relationships with self, colleagues, patients and families, and the community. Best practices and outcomes are shared to inspire others who seek to transform professional practice environments and organizational cultures by focusing on patients and families and engaging frontline leaders in the change process.
Transformation through Relationships
Authors: Lewis-Hunstiger Marty
Published: May 2014

Relationship with self, with colleagues, and with patients and their families, along with an emerging professional relationship with community, are described in articles by nurse educators, organizational leaders, and an entrepreneur from diverse locations and settings all devoted to preparing, empowering, and sustaining nurses and those for whom we care.
The Therapeutic Use of Self: Developing Three Capacities for a More Mindful Practice
Authors: Koloroutis Mary
Published: May 2014

The relational aspect of care is as essential to the overall patient experience as the technical aspects of care. The relational aspect of care hinges on how the caregiver uses his or her self as an instrument of care. For caregivers to fully engage in the art of healing, they must be mindful of the self they are bringing to every encounter. This mindfulness can be strengthened through the thoughtful pursuit of self-attunement, self-clarity, and self-compassion.
Rates of Insurance for Injured Patients Before and After Health Care Reform in Massachusetts: A Possible Case of Double Jeopardy
Authors: Santry Heena P. , Collins Courtney E. , Wiseman Jason T. , Psoinos Charles M. , Flahive Julie M. , Kiefe Catarina I.
Published: May 2014

Objectives. We determined how preinjury insurance status and injury-related outcomes among able-bodied, community-dwelling adults treated at a Level I Trauma Center in central Massachusetts changed after health care reform.

Methods. We compared insurance status at time of injury among non-Medicare-eligible adult Massachusetts residents before (2004–2005) and after (2009–2010) health care reform, adjusted for demographic and injury covariates, and modeled associations between insurance status and trauma outcomes.

Results. Among 2148 patients before health care reform and 2477 patients after health care reform, insurance rates increased from 77% to 84% (P < .001). Younger patients, men, minorities, and penetrating trauma victims were less likely to be insured irrespective of time period. Uninsured patients were more likely to be discharged home without services (adjusted odds ratio = 3.46; 95% confidence interval = 2.65, 4.52) compared with insured patients.

Conclusions. Preinjury insurance rates increased for trauma patients after health care reform but remained lower than in the general population. Certain Americans may be in “double jeopardy” of both higher injury incidence and worse outcomes because socioeconomic factors placing them at risk for injury also present barriers to compliance with an individual insurance mandate.
Preparing for Rectal Microbicides: Sociocultural Factors Affecting Product Uptake Among Potential South American Users
Authors: Galea Jerome T. , Kinsler Janni J. , Imrie John , Nureña César R. , Ruiz Lucía , Galarza Luis Fernando , Sánchez Jorge , Cunningham William E.
Published: May 2014

Objectives. We examined views on rectal microbicides (RMs), a potential HIV prevention option, among men who have sex with men and transgender women in 3 South American cities.

Methods. During September 2009 to September 2010, we conducted 10 focus groups and 36 in-depth interviews (n = 140) in Lima and Iquitos, Peru, and Guayaquil, Ecuador, to examine 5 RM domains: knowledge, thoughts and opinions about RM as an HIV prevention tool, use, condoms, and social concerns. We coded emergent themes in recorded and transcribed data sets and extracted representative quotes. We collected sociodemographic information with a self-administered questionnaire.

Results. RM issues identified included limited knowledge; concerns regarding plausibility, side effects, and efficacy; impact on condom use; target users (insertive vs receptive partners); and access concerns.

Conclusions. Understanding the sociocultural issues affecting RMs is critical to their uptake and should be addressed prior to product launch.
Budget- and Priority-Setting Criteria at State Health Agencies in Times of Austerity: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Leider Jonathon P. , Resnick Beth , Kass Nancy , Sellers Katie , Young Jessica , Bernet Patrick , Jarris Paul
Published: May 2014

Objectives. We examined critical budget and priority criteria for state health agencies to identify likely decision-making factors, pressures, and opportunities in times of austerity.

Methods. We have presented findings from a 2-stage, mixed-methods study with state public health leaders regarding public health budget- and priority-setting processes. In stage 1, we conducted hour-long interviews in 2011 with 45 health agency executive and division or bureau leaders from 6 states. Stage 2 was an online survey of 207 executive and division or bureau leaders from all state health agencies (66% response rate).

Results. Respondents identified 5 key criteria: whether a program was viewed as “mission critical,” the seriousness of the consequences of not funding the program, financing considerations, external directives and mandates, and the magnitude of the problem the program addressed.

Conclusions. We have presented empirical findings on criteria used in state health agency budgetary decision-making. These criteria suggested a focus and interest on core public health and the largest public health problems with the most serious ramifications.
Long-Term Impact on Alcohol-Involved Crashes of Lowering the Minimum Purchase Age in New Zealand
Authors: Huckle Taisia , Parker Karl
Published: May 2014

Objectives. We assessed the long-term effect of lowering the minimum purchase age for alcohol from age 20 to age 18 years on alcohol-involved crashes in New Zealand.

Methods. We modeled ratios of drivers in alcohol-involved crashes to drivers in non–alcohol-involved crashes by age group in 3 time periods using logistic regression, controlling for gender and adjusting for multiple comparisons.

Results. Before the law change, drivers aged 18 to 19 and 20 to 24 years had similar odds of an alcohol-involved crash (P = .1). Directly following the law change, drivers aged 18 to 19 years had a 15% higher odds of being in an alcohol-involved crash than did drivers aged 20 to 24 years (P = .038). In the long term, drivers aged 18 to 19 years had 21% higher odds of an alcohol-involved crash than did the age control group (P ≤ .001). We found no effects for fatal alcohol-involved crashes alone and no trickle-down effects for the youngest group.

Conclusions. Lowering the purchase age for alcohol was associated with a long-term impact on alcohol-involved crashes among drivers aged 18 to 19 years. Raising the minimum purchase age for alcohol would be appropriate.
Equity in the Receipt of Oseltamivir in the United States During the H1N1 Pandemic
Authors: Franklin Jessica M. , Choudhry Niteesh K. , Uscher-Pines Lori , Brill Gregory , Matlin Olga S. , Fischer Michael A. , Schneeweiss Sebastian , Avorn Jerry , Brennan Troyen A. , Shrank William H.
Published: May 2014

Objectives. We assessed the relationship between individual characteristics and receipt of oseltamivir (Tamiflu) in the United States during the H1N1 pandemic and other flu seasons.

Methods. In a cohort of individuals enrolled in pharmacy benefit plans, we used a multivariate logistic regression model to measure associations between subscriber characteristics and filling a prescription for oseltamivir during 3 flu seasons (October 2006–May 2007, October 2007–May 2008, and October 2008–May 2010). In 19 states with county-level influenza rates reported, we controlled for disease burden.

Results. Approximately 56 million subscribers throughout the United States were included in 1 or more study periods. During pandemic flu, beneficiaries in the highest income category had 97% greater odds of receiving oseltamivir than those in the lowest category (P < .001). After we controlled for disease burden, subscribers in the 2 highest income categories had 2.18 and 1.72 times the odds of receiving oseltamivir compared with those in the lowest category (P < .001 for both).

Conclusions. Income was a stronger predictor of oseltamivir receipt than prevalence of influenza. These findings corroborate concerns about equity of treatment in pandemics, and they call for improved approaches to distributing potentially life-saving treatments.
Developing Public Health Regulations for Marijuana: Lessons From Alcohol and Tobacco
Authors: Pacula Rosalie Liccardo , Kilmer Beau , Wagenaar Alexander C. , Chaloupka Frank J. , Caulkins Jonathan P.
Published: May 2014

Until November 2012, no modern jurisdiction had removed the prohibition on the commercial production, distribution, and sale of marijuana for nonmedical purposes—not even the Netherlands. Government agencies in Colorado and Washington are now charged with granting production and processing licenses and developing regulations for legal marijuana, and other states and countries may follow. Our goal is not to address whether marijuana legalization is a good or bad idea but, rather, to help policymakers understand the decisions they face and some lessons learned from research on public health approaches to regulating alcohol and tobacco over the past century.
Sexual Orientation Disparities in Adolescent Cigarette Smoking: Intersections With Race/Ethnicity, Gender, and Age
Authors: Corliss Heather L. , Rosario Margaret , Birkett Michelle A. , Newcomb Michael E. , Buchting Francisco O. , Matthews Alicia K.
Published: May 2014

Objectives. We examined sexual orientation differences in adolescent smoking and intersections with race/ethnicity, gender, and age.

Methods. We pooled Youth Risk Behavior Survey data collected in 2005 and 2007 from 14 jurisdictions; the analytic sample comprised observations from 13 of those jurisdictions (n = 64 397). We compared smoking behaviors of sexual minorities and heterosexuals on 2 dimensions of sexual orientation: identity (heterosexual, gay–lesbian, bisexual, unsure) and gender of lifetime sexual partners (only opposite sex, only same sex, or both sexes). Multivariable regressions examined whether race/ethnicity, gender, and age modified sexual orientation differences in smoking.

Results. Sexual minorities smoked more than heterosexuals. Disparities varied by sexual orientation dimension: they were larger when we compared adolescents by identity rather than gender of sexual partners. In some instances race/ethnicity, gender, and age modified smoking disparities: Black lesbians–gays, Asian American and Pacific Islander lesbians–gays and bisexuals, younger bisexuals, and bisexual girls had greater risk.

Conclusions. Sexual orientation, race/ethnicity, gender, and age should be considered in research and practice to better understand and reduce disparities in adolescent smoking.
The Haverstraw Experience: The First Tobacco Product Display Ban in the United States
Authors: Curry Laurel E. , Schmitt Carol L. , Juster Harlan
Published: May 2014

In April 2012, the village of Haverstraw, New York, passed the first tobacco retail display ban in the United States. Community groups funded by the New York State Department of Health Tobacco Control Program mobilized community members to support an initiative to protect youths in their area from tobacco marketing via methods consistent with a community transformation framework. The law was soon rescinded after 7 tobacco companies and the New York Association of Convenience Stores filed a federal lawsuit against the village that challenged the law’s constitutionality. We discuss lessons learned and next steps for adoption of local point-of-sale policies.
Electronic Cigarettes: Smoke-Free Laws, Sale Restrictions, and the Public Health
Authors: Paradise Jordan
Published: May 2014

Consumer use of e-cigarettes is rising despite a lack of rigorous safety testing, manufacturing controls, and a well-understood risk profile. Many states and municipalities have prohibited e-cigarette sale to minors or amended their smoke-free laws to restrict public use. I discuss the public health impact of e-cigarettes and the current lack of Food and Drug Administration regulation, and advocate that states and localities reexamine their smoke-free laws and sale restrictions to appropriately regulate public use and youth access.
Dental Therapists: Improving Access to Oral Health Care for Underserved Children
Authors: Friedman Jay W. , Mathu-Muju Kavita R.
Published: May 2014

Disparities in dental health care that characterize poor populations are well known. Children suffer disproportionately and most severely from dental diseases. Many countries have school-based dental therapist programs to meet children’s primary oral health care needs.

Although dental therapists in the United States face opposition from national and state dental associations, many state governments are considering funding the training and deployment of dental therapists to care for underserved populations. Dental therapists care for American Indians/Alaska Natives in Alaska, and Minnesota became the first state to legislate dental therapist training.

Children should receive priority preference; therefore, the most effective and economical utilization of dental therapists will be as salaried employees in school-based programs, beginning in underserved rural areas and inner cities.
State Firearm Laws, Firearm Ownership, and Safety Practices Among Families of Preschool-Aged Children
Authors: Prickett Kate C. , Martin-Storey Alexa , Crosnoe Robert
Published: May 2014

Objectives. We investigated how state-level firearms legislation is associated with firearm ownership and storage among families with preschool-aged children.

Methods. Using 2005 nationally representative data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study-Birth Cohort (n = 8100), we conducted multinomial regression models to examine the associations between state-level firearms legislation generally, child access prevention (CAP) firearms legislation specifically, and parental firearm ownership and storage safety practices.

Results. Overall, 8% of families with children aged 4 years living in states with stronger firearm laws and CAP laws owned firearms compared with 24% of families in states with weaker firearm laws and no CAP laws. Storage behaviors of firearm owners differed minimally across legislative contexts. When we controlled for family- and state-level characteristics, we found that firearm legislation and CAP laws interacted to predict ownership and storage behaviors, with unsafe storage least likely among families in states with both CAP laws and stronger firearm legislation.

Conclusions. Broader firearm legislation is linked with the efficacy of child-specific legislation in promoting responsible firearm ownership.
Dental Therapy: Evolving in Minnesota’s Safety Net
Authors: Self Karl , Born David , Nagy Amanda
Published: May 2014

Objectives. We identified Minnesota’s initial dental therapy employers and surveyed dental safety net providers’ perceptions of dental therapy.

Methods. In July 2011, we surveyed 32 Minnesota dental safety net providers to assess their prospective views on dental therapy employment options. In October 2013, we used an employment scan to reveal characteristics of the early adopters of dental therapy.

Results. Before the availability of licensed dental therapists, safety net dental clinic directors overwhelmingly (77%) supported dental therapy. As dental therapists have become licensed over the past 2 years, the early employers of dental therapists are safety net clinics.

Conclusions. Although the concept of dental therapy remains controversial in Minnesota, it now has a firm foundation in the state’s safety net clinics. Dental therapists are being used in innovative and diverse ways, so, as dental therapy continues to evolve, further research to identify best practices for incorporating dental therapists into the oral health care team is needed.
Cancer Incidence Among Arab Americans in California, Detroit, and New Jersey SEER Registries
Authors: Bergmans Rachel , Soliman Amr S. , Ruterbusch Julie , Meza Rafael , Hirko Kelly , Graff John , Schwartz Kendra
Published: May 2014

Objectives. We calculated cancer incidence for Arab Americans in California; Detroit, Michigan; and New Jersey, and compared rates with non-Hispanic, non-Arab Whites (NHNAWs); Blacks; and Hispanics.

Methods. We conducted a study using population-based data. We linked new cancers diagnosed in 2000 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program (SEER) to an Arab surname database. We used standard SEER definitions and methodology for calculating rates. Population estimates were extracted from the 2000 US Census. We calculated incidence and rate ratios.

Results. Arab American men and women had similar incidence rates across the 3 geographic regions, and the rates were comparable to NHNAWs. However, the thyroid cancer rate was elevated among Arab American women compared with NHNAWs, Hispanics, and Blacks. For all sites combined, for prostate and lung cancer, Arab American men had a lower incidence than Blacks and higher incidence than Hispanics in all 3 geographic regions. Arab American male bladder cancer incidence was higher than that in Hispanics and Blacks in these regions.

Conclusions. Our results suggested that further research would benefit from the federal recognition of Arab Americans as a specified ethnicity to estimate and address the cancer burden in this growing segment of the population.
Are Female CFOs Less Tax Aggressive? Evidence from Tax Aggressiveness
Authors: Francis Bill B. , Hasan Iftekhar , Wu Qiang , Yan Meng
Published: May 2014

This paper investigates the effect of CFO gender on corporate tax aggressiveness. Focusing on firms that experience a male-to-female CFO transition, the paper compares those firms' degree of tax aggressiveness during the pre- and post-transition periods. Using the probability of tax sheltering, the predicted unrecognized tax benefits, and the discretionary permanent book-tax differences to measure tax aggressiveness, we find that female CFOs are associated with less tax aggressiveness as compared to their male counterparts. The main findings are supported by additional tests based on propensity score matching, difference-in-differences tests, and tests with a female-to-male CFO transition sample. Overall, our study establishes CFO gender as an important determinant of tax aggressiveness.

JEL Classifications: H26; M41; J16.
The Effect of Tax Authority Monitoring and Enforcement on Financial Reporting Quality
Authors: Hanlon Michelle , Hoopes Jeffrey L. , Shroff Nemit
Published: May 2014

This paper examines the relation between tax enforcement and financial reporting quality. The government, due to its tax claim on firm profits, is de facto the largest minority shareholder in almost all corporations. Therefore, the government, like other shareholders, has an interest in the accurate reporting of (taxable) income and preventing insiders from siphoning corporate funds to obtain private benefits. We hypothesize and find evidence that higher tax enforcement by the tax authority has a positive association with financial reporting quality. Further, we find that this association is generally stronger when other monitoring mechanisms are weaker. Our evidence is consistent with the predictions from the Desai, Dyck, and Zingales (2007) theory that the tax authority provides a monitoring mechanism of corporate insiders. Our paper also adds to the literature on the determinants of financial reporting quality and how the relation between accounting standards and reporting outcomes depends on country-level institutions.

JEL Classifications: G3, H25, H26, K34, M40.
Cyclodepsipeptides and Other O-Containing Heterocyclic Metabolites from Beauveria felina EN-135, a Marine-Derived Entomopathogenic Fungus
Authors: Du Feng-Yu , Li Xiao-Ming , Zhang Peng , Li Chun-Shun , Wang Bin-Gui
Published: May 2014

Bioassay-guided fractionation of a culture extract of Beauveria felina EN-135, an entomopathogenic fungus isolated from a marine bryozoan, led to the isolation of a new cyclodepsipeptide, iso-isariin D (1); two new O-containing heterocyclic compounds that we have named felinones A and B (2 and 3); and four known cyclodepsipeptides (4–7). The structures were elucidated via spectroscopic analysis, and the absolute configurations of 1 and 2 were determined using single-crystal X-ray diffraction and CD, respectively. All isolated compounds were evaluated for antimicrobial activity and brine-shrimp (Artemia salina) lethality.
Three New Resveratrol Derivatives from the Mangrove Endophytic Fungus Alternaria sp.
Authors: Wang Jinhua , Cox Daniel , Ding Weijia , Huang Guanghao , Lin Yongcheng , Li Chunyuan
Published: May 2014

Three new resveratrol derivatives, namely, resveratrodehydes A–C (1–3), were isolated from the mangrove endophytic fungus Alternaria sp. R6. The structures of these compounds were elucidated by analysis of their MS, 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic data. All compounds showed broad-spectrum inhibitory activities against three human cancer cell lines including human breast MDA-MB-435, human liver HepG2, and human colon HCT-116 by MTT assay (IC50 < 50 μM). Among them, compounds 1 and 2 both exhibited marked cytotoxic activities against MDA-MB-435 and HCT-116 cell lines (IC50 < 10 μM). Additionally, compounds 1 and 3 showed moderate antioxidant activity by DPPH radical scavenging assay.
Complex Toxin Profile of French Mediterranean Ostreopsis cf. ovata Strains, Seafood Accumulation and Ovatoxins Prepurification
Authors: Brissard Charline , Herrenknecht Christine , Séchet Véronique , Hervé Fabienne , Pisapia Francesco , Harcouet Jocelyn , Lémée Rodolphe , Chomérat Nicolas , Hess Philipp , Amzil Zouher
Published: May 2014

Ostreopsis cf. ovata produces palytoxin analogues including ovatoxins (OVTXs) and a putative palytoxin (p-PLTX), which can accumulate in marine organisms and may possibly lead to food intoxication. However, purified ovatoxins are not widely available and their toxicities are still unknown. The aim of this study was to improve understanding of the ecophysiology of Ostreopsis cf. ovata and its toxin production as well as to optimize the purification process for ovatoxin. During Ostreopsis blooms in 2011 and 2012 in Villefranche-sur-Mer (France, NW Mediterranean Sea), microalgae epiphytic cells and marine organisms were collected and analyzed both by LC-MS/MS and hemolysis assay. Results obtained with these two methods were comparable, suggesting ovatoxins have hemolytic properties. An average of 223 μg·kg−1 of palytoxin equivalent of whole flesh was found, thus exceeding the threshold of 30 μg·kg−1 in shellfish recommended by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Ostreopsis cells showed the same toxin profile both in situ and in laboratory culture, with ovatoxin-a (OVTX-a) being the most abundant analogue (~50%), followed by OVTX-b (~15%), p-PLTX (12%), OVTX-d (8%), OVTX-c (5%) and OVTX-e (4%). Ostreopsis cf. ovata produced up to 2 g of biomass per L of culture, with a maximum concentration of 300 pg PLTX equivalent cell−1. Thus, an approximate amount of 10 mg of PLTX-group toxins may be produced with 10 L of this strain. Toxin extracts obtained from collected biomass were purified using different techniques such as liquid-liquid partition or size exclusion. Among these methods, open-column chromatography with Sephadex LH20 phase yielded the best results with a cleanup efficiency of 93% and recovery of about 85%, representing an increase of toxin percentage by 13 fold. Hence, this purification step should be incorporated into future isolation exercises.
Evolving Marine Biomimetics for Regenerative Dentistry
Authors: Green David , Lai Wing-Fu , Jung Han-Sung
Published: May 2014

New products that help make human tissue and organ regeneration more effective are in high demand and include materials, structures and substrates that drive cell-to-tissue transformations, orchestrate anatomical assembly and tissue integration with biology. Marine organisms are exemplary bioresources that have extensive possibilities in supporting and facilitating development of human tissue substitutes. Such organisms represent a deep and diverse reserve of materials, substrates and structures that can facilitate tissue reconstruction within lab-based cultures. The reason is that they possess sophisticated structures, architectures and biomaterial designs that are still difficult to replicate using synthetic processes, so far. These products offer tantalizing pre-made options that are versatile, adaptable and have many functions for current tissue engineers seeking fresh solutions to the deficiencies in existing dental biomaterials, which lack the intrinsic elements of biofunctioning, structural and mechanical design to regenerate anatomically correct dental tissues both in the culture dish and in vivo.