bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polycythemia and Paraganglioma With a Novel Somatic HIF2A Mutation in a Male
Authors: Toyoda Hidemi , Hirayama Jyunya , Sugimoto Yuka , Uchida Keiichi , Ohishi Kohshi , Hirayama Masahiro , Komada Yoshihiro
Published: May 2014

Recently, a new syndrome of paraganglioma, somatostatinoma, and polycythemia has been discovered (known as Pacak–Zhuang syndrome). This new syndrome, with somatic HIF2A gain-of-function mutations, has never been reported in male patients. We describe a male patient with Pacak–Zhuang syndrome who carries a newly discovered HIF2A mutation. Congenital polycythemias have diverse etiologies, including germline mutations in the oxygen-sensing pathway. These include von Hippel–Lindau (Chuvash polycythemia), prolyl hydroxylase domain–containing protein-2, and hypoxia-inducible factor-2α (HIF-2α). Somatic gain-of-function mutations in the gene encoding HIF-2α were reported in patients with paraganglioma and polycythemia and have been found exclusively in female patients. Through sequencing of the HIF2A using DNA from paraganglioma in 15-year-old male patient, we identified a novel mutation of HIF2A: a heterozygous C to A substitution at base 1589 in exon 12 of HIF2A. The mutation was not found in germline DNA from leukocytes. The C1589A mutations resulted in substitution of alanine 530 in the HIF-2α protein with glutamic acid. This mutation is undoubtedly associated with increased HIF-2α activity and increased protein half-life, because it affects the vicinity of the prolyl hydroxylase target residue, proline 531. To our knowledge, this is the first report describing Pacak–Zhuang syndrome with somatic gain-of-function mutation in HIF2A in a male patient. Congenital polycythemia of unknown origin should raise suspicion for the novel disorder Pacak–Zhuang syndrome, even in male patients.
Peer Mentoring for Type 2 Diabetes Prevention in First Nations Children
Authors: Eskicioglu Pinar , Halas Joannie , Sénéchal Martin , Wood Larry , McKay Elma , Villeneuve Stephanie , Shen Garry X. , Dean Heather , McGavock Jonathan M.
Published: May 2014

OBJECTIVE:

The goal of this study was to assess the efficacy of an after-school, peer-led, healthy living program on adiposity, self-efficacy, and knowledge of healthy living behaviors in children living in a remote isolated First Nation.

METHODS:

A quasi-experimental trial with a parallel nonequivalent control arm was performed with 151 children in Garden Hill First Nation during the 2010–2011 and 2011–2012 school years. Fourth grade students were offered a 5-month, peer-led intervention facilitated by high school mentors between January and May of each school year; students in the control arm received standard curriculum. The main outcome measures were waist circumference (WC) and BMI z score. Secondary outcome measures included healthy living knowledge and self-efficacy.

RESULTS:

Fifty-one children (mean ± SD age: 9.7 ± 0.4 years; BMI z score: 1.46 ± 0.84) received the intervention, and 100 children were in the control arm. At baseline, WC (79.8 vs 83.9 cm), BMI z score (1.46 vs 1.48), and rates of overweight/obesity (75% vs 72%) did not differ between arms. After the intervention, the change in WC (adjusted treatment effect: –2.5 cm [95% confidence interval (CI): –4.1 to –0.90]; P = .002) and BMI z score (adjusted treatment effect: –0.09 [95% CI: –0.16 to –0.03]; P = .007) were significantly lower in the intervention arm compared to the control arm. The intervention arm also experienced improvements in knowledge of healthy dietary choices (2.25% [95% CI: –0.01 to 6.25]; P = .02). Self-efficacy was associated with the change in WC after the intervention (β = –7.9, P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS:

An after-school, peer-led, healthy living program attenuated weight gain and improved healthy living knowledge in children living in a remote isolated First Nation.
“Greenlight Study”: A Controlled Trial of Low-Literacy, Early Childhood Obesity Prevention
Authors: Sanders Lee M. , Perrin Eliana M. , Yin H. Shonna , Bronaugh Andrea , Rothman Russell L.
Published: May 2014

Children who become overweight by age 2 years have significantly greater risks of long-term health problems, and children in low-income communities, where rates of low adult literacy are highest, are at increased risk of developing obesity. The objective of the Greenlight Intervention Study is to assess the effectiveness of a low-literacy, primary-care intervention on the reduction of early childhood obesity. At 4 primary-care pediatric residency training sites across the US, 865 infant-parent dyads were enrolled at the 2-month well-child checkup and are being followed through the 24-month well-child checkup. Two sites were randomly assigned to the intervention, and the other sites were assigned to an attention-control arm, implementing the American Academy of Pediatrics' The Injury Prevention Program. The intervention consists of an interactive educational toolkit, including low-literacy materials designed for use during well-child visits, and a clinician-centered curriculum for providing low-literacy guidance on obesity prevention. The study is powered to detect a 10% difference in the number of children overweight (BMI > 85%) at 24 months. Other outcome measures include observed physician–parent communication, as well as parent-reported information on child dietary intake, physical activity, and injury-prevention behaviors. The study is designed to inform evidence-based standards for early childhood obesity prevention, and more generally to inform optimal approaches for low-literacy messages and health literacy training in primary preventive care. This article describes the conceptual model, study design, intervention content, and baseline characteristics of the study population.
Microstructural Gradients in Cement Paste Around Aggregate Particles
Authors: Scrivener Karen L. , Gartner Ellis M.
Published: May 2014

The effectiveness of condensed silica fume as a strength enhancing additive in concrete has been attributed to its ability to modify the interfacial zone between paste and aggregate. This paper describes a microstructural investigation of this interface using backscattered electron (bse) imaging combined with quantitative image analysis.

Composite specimens were made in which a single piece of aggregate was embedded in cement paste. Granite, dolomite and garnet aggregates were used. After curing, the specimens were sectioned perpendicular to the surface of the aggregate particles and polished. The variation in porosity, amount of anhydrous material and calcium hydroxide (CH), with distance from the aggregate surface was measured. It was found that the porosity increases in the paste close to the interface, while the content of anhydrous grains decreases. No significant increase in CH content was found near the interface.

The results confirm the applicability of the bse - image analysis technique, but indicate that the interfaces in specimens prepared in this manner may not be representative of aggregate paste interfaces in concrete.
Endotaxial Growth Mechanisms of Sn Quantum Dots in Si Matrix
Authors: Möck P. , Lei Y. , Topuria T. , Browning N.D. , Ragan R. , Min K.S. , Atwater H.A.
Published: May 2014

Two distinct mechanisms for the endotaxial growth of quantum dots in the Sn/Si system were observed by means of analytical transmission electron microcopy. Both mechanisms operate simultaneously during temperature and growth rate modulated molecular beam epitaxy combined with ex situ thermal treatments. One of the mechanisms involves the creation of voids in Si, which are subsequently filled by Sn, resulting in quantum dots that consist of pure α-Sn. The other mechanism involves phase separation and leads to substitutional solid solution quantum dots with a higher Sn content than the predecessor quantum well structures possess. In both cases, the resultant quantum dots possess the diamond structure and the shape of a tetrakaidecahedron. (Sn,Si) precipitates that are several times larger than the typical (Sn,Si) quantum dot possess an essentially octahedral shape.
Near-Field Scanning Optical Microscopy Studies of Materials and Devices
Authors: Hsu J.W.P.
Published: May 2014

Near-field scanning optical microscopy (NSOM) provides a means to study optical and optoelectronic properties of materials at the nanometer scale. The key to achieving resolution higher than the diffraction limit is to place a subwavelength-sized light source—e.g., an aperture—within the near-field zone of the sample. In this case, the area of the sample illuminated is determined by the aperture size and not by the wavelength (see Figure 1). An image can then be formed by moving the sample and light source with respect to each other. While the principle of near-field optics is straightforward, its realization at visible-light wavelengths was not achieved until the invention of scanning-probe techniques in the 1980s. Since Betzig et al. demonstrated in 1991 that bright subwavelength apertures can be made by tapering and metal-coating single-mode optical fibers, research activities involving NSOM have increased tremendously. The later incorporation of shear-force feedback to regulate tip-sample separation adds another strength to NSOM. Using this distance regulation, a topographic image similar to that obtained by a conventional scanning force microscope is acquired simultaneously with the optical image. This provides a way to correlate structural and physical properties at the same sample positions and greatly simplifies interpretation of the NSOM data.
Optimizing Treatment Outcomes With Regorafenib: Personalized Dosing and Other Strategies to Support Patient Care
Authors: Grothey Axel , George Suzanne , van Cutsem Eric , Blay Jean-Yves , Sobrero Alberto , Demetri George D.
Published: May 2014

Regorafenib is an oral multikinase inhibitor that inhibits several kinases relevant to tumor biology in several cancers, including colorectal carcinoma (CRC) and gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). In phase III trials, regorafenib significantly improved overall survival versus placebo in patients with metastatic CRC progressing after all available standard therapies, and significantly prolonged progression-free survival in patients with advanced GIST in whom at least imatinib and sunitinib had failed. Thus, this agent holds promise as a new standard of care for CRC and GIST patients after disease progression following all other approved therapies. The clinical trials reported to date show that this new treatment has a consistent adverse event profile that is quite different from that of traditional cytotoxic chemotherapies. The most common adverse events of regorafenib include dermatologic and mucosal toxicities (especially hand-foot skin reaction, rash, and oral mucositis), constitutional symptoms (e.g., fatigue, nausea, and weight loss), vascular effects (especially hypertension), and gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., diarrhea). To help health care professionals anticipate and manage the adverse events associated with regorafenib, we describe our experiences in clinical trials and show that such toxicities can be effectively managed with close observation of patients from initiation of dosing, along with prompt appropriate interventions, including dose modifications, if necessary.
Improving Family-Centered Care Practices in the NICU
Authors: Lee Laurie A. , Carter Melondie , Stevenson Sharon B. , Harrison H. Allen
Published: May 2014

Family presence and participation in care in the NICU is fundamental to the recovery and well-being of the sick neonate and family. However, some NICU visitation policies are not supportive of families. A new visitor-management program was initiated at a local hospital. The program included open visitation for parents and others chosen by parents to be a support during their hospital stay. This quality-improvement project evaluated if there was any improvement in parents’ perceptions and experiences of family-centered care after the implementation of the new visitor-management program. The NICU parent survey data revealed a modest positive difference in parent responses after the implementation of the program.
Review of Micronutrients in Parenteral Nutrition for the NICU Population
Authors: Johnson Patricia J.
Published: May 2014

A recent review of macronutrients in parenteral nutrition (PN) in the NICU population summarized the carbohydrate, protein, and fat nutrients in PN.1 The purpose of this article is to review the other nutrients in PN that are important for growth and homeostasis including minerals or electrolytes, vitamins, and trace elements. Although the macronutrients contribute more dramatically to adequate nutrition and growth, the other components in PN have significant impact on use of macronutrients as well as targeted organ and cellular function.
Interprofessional Communication and Teambuilding Using Applied Improvisational Exercises
Authors: Campbell Candace
Published: May 2014

According to The Joint Commission (TJC), the most frequently cited root cause of sentinel events is ineffective communication or miscommunication (TJC, 2002, 2012). The need to improve communication among health care professionals is a high priority because of the serious consequences of poor communication for everyone involved, on both personal and corporate levels. Applied improvisational exercises (AIEs) comprise a strategy for enhancing interprofessional communication (IPC). This article asks: What are the challenges inherent in IPC and teambuilding in the health care setting, and how can AIE help bridge the communication gap?
Evaluation of a Nurse-Designed Mobile Health Education Application to Enhance Knowledge of Pap Testing
Authors: Christensen Stacy
Published: May 2014

An experimental study was conducted using a 2-group randomized control pretest/posttest design to determine if knowledge about Pap testing could be increased through use of a nurse-designed mobile smartphone app developed to educate individuals about the Pap test. A 14-item pretest survey of knowledge about Pap tests was distributed to women attending a university in New England. Participants in the intervention group were provided with an Android device on which a digital health education application on Pap testing had been downloaded. The control group was given a standard pamphlet on Pap testing. Paired t test results demonstrated that knowledge scores on the posttest increased significantly in both groups, but were significantly higher in the intervention group. User satisfaction with the app was high. The results of this study may enhance nursing care by informing nurses about a unique way of learning about Pap testing to recommend to patients.
When Opposites Don't Attract: One Rehabilitation Hospital's Journey to Improve Communication and Collaboration between Nurses and Therapists
Authors: Brooks Valorie , Rhodes Bobbie , Tefft Nicole
Published: May 2014

Collaboration and communication are key to successful teamwork that results in positive patient outcomes. This article shares the journey of one rehabilitation hospital to improve collaboration and teamwork among the nursing and therapy staff. A year-long series of staff retreats focused on improving interprofessional communication proved successful, resulting in the revitalization of an interdisciplinary unit council.
Socialization of Nontraditional Nursing Students
Authors: Fettig Karen J. , Friesen Pamela K.
Published: May 2014

Nurse educators are challenged to meet the needs of nontraditional students in mobility nursing programs. Increasing student diversity and a projected nursing shortage make retention, ensuring student success, and facilitating entrance into the profession the top priorities for educators. The role of peer support in the success of nontraditional students in a mobility program in the Midwest was explored through semistructured interviews with 10 graduates. Participants reported developing collegial relationships with other students; when friendships formed, caring connections, shared learning, and collaboration occurred. Nurse educators can encourage relationship building between students and facilitate shared learning among student groups.
Political Factors Affecting the Enactment of State-Level Clean Indoor Air Laws
Authors: Tung Gregory Jackson , Vernick Jon S. , Stuart Elizabeth A. , Webster Daniel W.
Published: May 2014

Objectives. We examined the effects of key political institutional factors on the advancement of state-level clean indoor air laws.

Methods. We performed an observational study of state-level clean indoor air law enactment among all 50 US states from 1993 to 2010 by using extended Cox hazard models to assess risk of enacting a relevant law.

Results. During the 18-year period from 1993 to 2010, 28 states passed a law covering workplaces, 33 states passed a law covering restaurants, 29 states passed a law covering bars, and 16 states passed a law covering gaming facilities. States with term limits had a 2.15 times greater hazard (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.27, 3.65; P = .005) of enacting clean indoor air laws. The presence of state-level preemption of local clean indoor air laws was associated with a 3.26 times greater hazard (95% CI = 1.11, 9.53; P = .031) of state-level policy enactment. In the presence of preemption, increased legislative professionalism was strongly associated (hazard ratio = 3.28; 95% CI = 1.10, 9.75; P = .033) with clean indoor air law enactment.

Conclusions. Political institutional factors do influence state-level clean indoor air law enactment and may be relevant to other public health policy areas.
Mental Health and Suicidality Among Racially/Ethnically Diverse Sexual Minority Youths
Authors: Bostwick Wendy B. , Meyer Ilan , Aranda Frances , Russell Stephen , Hughes Tonda , Birkett Michelle , Mustanski Brian
Published: May 2014

Objectives. We examined the relationships among sexual minority status, sex, and mental health and suicidality, in a racially/ethnically diverse sample of adolescents.

Methods. Using pooled data from 2005 and 2007 Youth Risk Behavior Surveys within 14 jurisdictions, we used hierarchical linear modeling to examine 6 mental health outcomes across 6 racial/ethnic groups, intersecting with sexual minority status and sex. Based on an omnibus measure of sexual minority status, there were 6245 sexual minority adolescents in the current study. The total sample was n = 72 691.

Results. Compared with heterosexual peers, sexual minorities reported higher odds of feeling sad; suicidal ideation, planning and attempts; suicide attempt treated by a doctor or nurse, and self-harm. Among sexual minorities, compared with White youths, Asian and Black youths had lower odds of many outcomes, whereas American Native/Pacific Islander, Latino, and Multiracial youths had higher odds.

Conclusions. Although in general, sexual minority youths were at heightened risk for suicidal outcomes, risk varied based on sex and on race/ethnicity. More research is needed to better understand the manner in which sex and race/ethnicity intersect among sexual minorities to influence risk and protective factors, and ultimately, mental health outcomes.
A Profile of North Carolina Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Health Disparities, 2011
Authors: Matthews Derrick D. , Lee Joseph G. L.
Published: May 2014

Objectives. We investigated the health profile of lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) adults in North Carolina, the first state in the South to include a measure of sexual orientation identity in a probability-based statewide health survey.

Methods. Using data from 9876 respondents in the 2011 North Carolina Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey, we compared sexual minorities to heterosexuals on a variety of health indicators.

Results. LGB respondents were younger and more likely to be reached by cell phone. Many examined indicators were not different by sexual orientation. Significant results, however, were consistent with findings from state population surveys in other regions of the country, including disparities in mental health and, among women, smoking.

Conclusions. Reporting LGB identity in North Carolina is associated with poorer health. The concentration of anti-LGB policies in the South warrants ongoing monitoring of LGB health disparities in North Carolina and in other Southeastern states for potential effects on the health and well-being of LGB populations.
The Origins of Personal Responsibility Rhetoric in News Coverage of the Tobacco Industry
Authors: Mejia Pamela , Dorfman Lori , Cheyne Andrew , Nixon Laura , Friedman Lissy , Gottlieb Mark , Daynard Richard
Published: May 2014

The tobacco industry consistently frames smoking as a personal issue rather than the responsibility of cigarette companies. To identify when personal responsibility framing became a major element of the tobacco industry’s discourse, we analyzed news coverage from 1966 to 1991. Industry representatives began to regularly use these arguments in 1977. By the mid 1980s, this frame dominated the industry’s public arguments. This chronology illustrates that the tobacco industry’s use of personal responsibility rhetoric in public preceded the ascension of personal responsibility rhetoric commonly associated with the Reagan Administration in the 1980s.
Sexual Orientation Disparities in Sexually Transmitted Infection Risk Behaviors and Risk Determinants Among Sexually Active Adolescent Males: Results From a School-Based Sample
Authors: Everett Bethany G. , Schnarrs Phillip W. , Rosario Margaret , Garofalo Robert , Mustanski Brian
Published: May 2014

Objectives. We examined disparities in risk determinants and risk behaviors for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) between gay-identified, bisexual-identified, and heterosexual-identified young men who have sex with men (YMSM) and heterosexual-identified young men who have sex with women (YMSW) using a school-based sample of US sexually active adolescent males.

Methods. We analyzed a pooled data set of Youth Risk Behavior Surveys from 2005 and 2007 that included information on sexual orientation identity, sexual behaviors, and multiple STI risk factors.

Results. Bisexual-identified adolescents were more likely to report multiple STI risk behaviors (number of sex partners, concurrent sex partners, and age of sexual debut) compared with heterosexual YMSW as well as heterosexual YMSM and gay-identified respondents. Gay, bisexual, and heterosexual YMSM were significantly more likely to report forced sex compared with heterosexual YMSW.

Conclusions. Our results provide evidence that sexual health disparities emerge early in the life course and vary by both sexual orientation identity and sexual behaviors. In particular, they show that bisexual-identified adolescent males exhibit a unique risk profile that warrants targeted sexual health interventions.
Trends in Bullying, Physical Fighting, and Weapon Carrying Among 6th- Through 10th-Grade Students From 1998 to 2010: Findings From a National Study
Authors: Perlus Jessamyn G. , Brooks-Russell Ashley , Wang Jing , Iannotti Ronald J.
Published: May 2014

Objectives. We examined trends from 1998 to 2010 in bullying, bullying victimization, physical fighting, and weapon carrying and variations by gender, grade level, and race/ethnicity among US adolescents.

Methods. The Health Behavior in School-Aged Children surveys of nationally representative samples of students in grades 6 through 10 were completed in 1998 (n = 15 686), 2002 (n = 14 818), 2006 (n = 9229), and 2010 (n = 10 926). We assessed frequency of bullying behaviors, physical fighting, and weapon carrying as well as weapon type and subtypes of bullying. We conducted logistic regression analyses, accounting for the complex sampling design, to identify trends and variations by demographic factors.

Results. Bullying perpetration, bullying victimization, and physical fighting declined from 1998 to 2010. Weapon carrying increased for White students only. Declines in bullying perpetration and victimization were greater for boys than for girls. Declines in bullying perpetration and physical fighting were greater for middle-school students than for high-school students.

Conclusions. Declines in most violent behaviors are encouraging; however, lack of decline in weapon carrying merits further attention.
Mediation by Peer Violence Victimization of Sexual Orientation Disparities in Cancer-Related Tobacco, Alcohol, and Sexual Risk Behaviors: Pooled Youth Risk Behavior Surveys
Authors: Rosario Margaret , Corliss Heather L. , Everett Bethany G. , Russell Stephen T. , Buchting Francisco O. , Birkett Michelle A
Published: May 2014

Objectives. We examined the role of adolescent peer violence victimization (PVV) in sexual orientation disparities in cancer-related tobacco, alcohol, and sexual risk behaviors.

Methods. We pooled data from the 2005 and 2007 Youth Risk Behavior Surveys. We classified youths with any same-sex sexual attraction, partners, or identity as sexual minority and the remainder as heterosexual. We had 4 indicators of tobacco and alcohol use and 4 of sexual risk and 2 PVV factors: victimization at school and carrying weapons. We stratified associations by gender and race/ethnicity.

Results. PVV was related to disparities in cancer-related risk behaviors of substance use and sexual risk, with odds ratios (ORs) of 1.3 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.03, 1.6) to 11.3 (95% CI = 6.2, 20.8), and to being a sexual minority, with ORs of 1.4 (95% CI = 1.1, 1.9) to 5.6 (95% CI = 3.5, 8.9). PVV mediated sexual orientation disparities in substance use and sexual risk behaviors. Findings were pronounced for adolescent girls and Asian/Pacific Islanders.

Conclusions. Interventions are needed to reduce PVV in schools as a way to reduce sexual orientation disparities in cancer risk across the life span.
Implications of the New Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Blood Lead Reference Value
Authors: Burns Mackenzie S. , Gerstenberger Shawn L.
Published: May 2014

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently established a new reference value (≥ 5 μg/dL) as the standard for identifying children with elevated blood lead levels (EBLs). At present, 535 000 US children aged 1 to 5 years (2.6%) are estimated to have EBLs according to the new standard, versus 0.8% according to the previous standard (≥ 10 μg/dL). Because EBLs signify the threshold for public health intervention, this new definition increases demands on lead poisoning prevention efforts. Primary prevention has been proven to reduce lead poisoning cases and is also cost effective; however, federal budget cuts threaten the existence of such programs. Protection for the highest-risk children necessitates a reinstatement of federal funding to previous levels.
The Role of Public Health in the Prevention of War: Rationale and Competencies
Authors: Wiist William H. , Barker Kathy , Arya Neil , Rohde Jon , Donohoe Martin , White Shelley , Lubens Pauline , Gorman Geraldine , Hagopian Amy
Published: May 2014

In 2009 the American Public Health Association approved the policy statement, “The Role of Public Health Practitioners, Academics, and Advocates in Relation to Armed Conflict and War.” Despite the known health effects of war, the development of competencies to prevent war has received little attention. Public health’s ethical principles of practice prioritize addressing the fundamental causes of disease and adverse health outcomes. A working group grew out of the American Public Health Association’s Peace Caucus to build upon the 2009 policy by proposing competencies to understand and prevent the political, economic, social, and cultural determinants of war, particularly militarism. The working group recommends that schools of public health and public health organizations incorporate these competencies into professional preparation programs, research, and advocacy.
The Relationship Between Pediatric Combination Vaccines and Market Effects
Authors: Behzad Banafsheh , Jacobson Sheldon H. , Jokela Janet A. , Sewell Edward C.
Published: May 2014

We explored market factors that affect pediatric combination vaccine uptake in the US public-sector pediatric vaccine market. We specifically examined how Pediarix and Pentacel earned a place in the 2009–2012 lowest overall cost formulary.

Direct competition between Pediarix and Pentacel is driven by the indirect presence of the Merck Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine and the Recommended Childhood Immunization Schedule requirement for a hepatitis B birth dose.

The resulting analysis suggests that Pentacel would never have earned a place in the lowest overall cost formulary for 2009–2012 federal contract prices for any cost of an injection unless the Merck H influenzae type b advantage was ignored and the hepatitis B birth dose administration cost was recognized by health care providers in designing the lowest overall cost formularies.
“Real Men Don't”: Constructions of Masculinity and Inadvertent Harm in Public Health Interventions
Authors: Fleming Paul J. , Lee Joseph G. L. , Dworkin Shari L.
Published: May 2014

Research shows that constraining aspects of male gender norms negatively influence both women’s and men’s health. Messaging that draws on norms of masculinity in health programming has been shown to improve both women’s and men’s health, but some types of public health messaging (e.g., Man Up Monday, a media campaign to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections) can reify harmful aspects of hegemonic masculinity that programs are working to change. We critically assess the deployment of hegemonic male norms in the Man Up Monday campaign. We draw on ethical paradigms in public health to challenge programs that reinforce harmful aspects of gender norms and suggest the use of gender-transformative interventions that challenge constraining masculine norms and have been shown to have a positive effect on health behaviors.
Sex and Gender in the US Health Surveillance System: A Call to Action
Authors: Conron Kerith J. , Landers Stewart J. , Reisner Sari L. , Sell Randall L.
Published: May 2014

Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) data have exposed significant sexual orientation disparities in health. Interest in examining the health of transgender youths, whose gender identities or expressions are not fully congruent with their assigned sex at birth, highlights limitations of the YRBS and the broader US health surveillance system.

In 2009, we conducted the mixed-methods Massachusetts Gender Measures Project to develop and cognitively test measures for adolescent health surveillance surveys. A promising measure of transgender status emerged through this work.

Further research is needed to produce accurate measures of assigned sex at birth and several dimensions of gender to further our understanding of determinants of gender disparities in health and enable strategic responses to address them.
Promoting the Successful Development of Sexual and Gender Minority Youths
Authors: Mayer Kenneth H. , Garofalo Robert , Makadon Harvey J.
Published: May 2014

Because of societal discomfort with atypical expressions of sexual orientation and gender identity, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youths have experienced enhanced developmental challenges compared with their heterosexual peers.

A recent special issue of the American Journal of Public Health delineated how social stigma affecting LGBT youths has resulted in a wide range of health disparities, ranging from increased prevalence of depression and substance use to downstream effects, such as an increased risk for cancer and cardiovascular disease when older.

We review the clinical significance of these findings for health care professionals, who need to become informed about these associations to provide better care for their sexual and gender minority youth patients, and to be able to educate their parents and other caregivers.
Navigating the Murky Waters of Colorectal Cancer Screening and Health Reform
Authors: Green Beverly B. , Coronado Gloria D. , Devoe Jennifer E. , Allison James
Published: May 2014

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) mandates that both Medicaid and insurance plans cover life-saving preventive services recommended by the US Preventive Services Task Force, including colorectal cancer (CRC) screening and choice between colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and fecal occult blood testing (FOBT).

People who choose FOBT or sigmoidoscopy as their initial test could face high, unexpected, out-of-pocket costs because the mandate does not cover needed follow-up colonoscopies after positive tests. Some people will have no coverage for any CRC screening because of lack of state participation in the ACA or because they do not qualify (e.g., immigrant workers).

Existing disparities in CRC screening and mortality will worsen if policies are not corrected to fully cover both initial and follow-up testing.
Effects of Cuts in Medicaid on Dental-Related Visits and Costs at a Safety-Net Hospital
Authors: Neely Martha , Jones Judith A. , Rich Sharron , Gutierrez Lillelenny Santana , Mehra Pushkar
Published: May 2014

We used data from Boston Medical Center, Massachusetts, to determine whether dental-related emergency department (ED) visits and costs increased when Medicaid coverage for adult dental care was reduced in July 2010. In this retrospective study of existing data, we examined the safety-net hospital’s dental-related ED visits and costs for 3 years before and 2 years after Massachusetts Health Care Reform. Dental-related ED visits increased 2% the first and 14% the second year after Medicaid cuts. Percentage increases were highest among older adults, minorities, and persons receiving charity care, Medicaid, and Medicare.
Some Methodological Deficiencies in Empirical Research Articles in Accounting
Authors: Dyckman Thomas R. , Zeff Stephen A.
Published: May 2014

SYNOPSIS

This paper uses a sample of the regression and behavioral papers published in The Accounting Review and the Journal of Accounting Research from September 2012 through May 2013. We argue first that the current research results reported in empirical regression papers fail adequately to justify the time period adopted for the study. Second, we maintain that the statistical analyses used in these papers as well as in the behavioral papers have produced flawed results. We further maintain that their tests of statistical significance are not appropriate and, more importantly, that these studies do not—and cannot—properly address the economic significance of the work. In other words, significance tests are not tests of the economic meaningfulness of the results. We suggest ways to avoid some but not all of these problems. We also argue that replication studies, which have been essentially abandoned by accounting researchers, can contribute to our search for truth, but few will be forthcoming unless the academic reward system is modified.
A Model of Multinational Income Shifting and an Application to Tax Planning with E-Commerce
Authors: Klassen Kenneth J. , Laplante Stacie K. , Carnaghan Carla
Published: May 2014

This manuscript develops an investment model that incorporates the joint consideration of income shifting by multinational parents to or from a foreign subsidiary and the decision to repatriate or reinvest foreign earnings. The model demonstrates that, while there is always an incentive to shift income into the U.S. from high-foreign-tax-rate subsidiaries, income shifting out of the U.S. to low-tax-rate countries occurs only under certain conditions. The model explicitly shows how the firms' required rate of return for foreign investments affects both repatriation and income shifting decisions. We show how the model can be used to refine extant research. We then apply it to a novel setting—using e-commerce for tax planning. We find firms in manufacturing industries with high levels of e-commerce have economically significant lower cash effective tax rates. This effect is magnified for firms that are less likely to have taxable repatriations.

JEL Classifications: G38, H25, H32, M41.
Altered DNA Methylation and Differential Expression of Genes Influencing Metabolism and Inflammation in Adipose Tissue From Subjects With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Nilsson Emma , Jansson Per Anders , Perfilyev Alexander , Volkov Petr , Pedersen Maria , Svensson Maria K. , Poulsen Pernille , Ribel-Madsen Rasmus , Pedersen Nancy L. , Almgren Peter , Fadista João , Rönn Tina , Klarlund Pedersen Bente , Scheele Camilla , Vaag Allan , Ling Charlotte
Published: May 2014

Genetics, epigenetics, and environment may together affect the susceptibility for type 2 diabetes (T2D). Our aim was to dissect molecular mechanisms underlying T2D using genome-wide expression and DNA methylation data in adipose tissue from monozygotic twin pairs discordant for T2D and independent case-control cohorts. In adipose tissue from diabetic twins, we found decreased expression of genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation; carbohydrate, amino acid, and lipid metabolism; and increased expression of genes involved in inflammation and glycan degradation. The most differentially expressed genes included ELOVL6, GYS2, FADS1, SPP1 (OPN), CCL18, and IL1RN. We replicated these results in adipose tissue from an independent case-control cohort. Several candidate genes for obesity and T2D (e.g., IRS1 and VEGFA) were differentially expressed in discordant twins. We found a heritable contribution to the genome-wide DNA methylation variability in twins. Differences in methylation between monozygotic twin pairs discordant for T2D were subsequently modest. However, 15,627 sites, representing 7,046 genes including PPARG, KCNQ1, TCF7L2, and IRS1, showed differential DNA methylation in adipose tissue from unrelated subjects with T2D compared with control subjects. A total of 1,410 of these sites also showed differential DNA methylation in the twins discordant for T2D. For the differentially methylated sites, the heritability estimate was 0.28. We also identified copy number variants (CNVs) in monozygotic twin pairs discordant for T2D. Taken together, subjects with T2D exhibit multiple transcriptional and epigenetic changes in adipose tissue relevant to the development of the disease.
Catalase Overexpression Prevents Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2–Related Factor 2 Stimulation of Renal Angiotensinogen Gene Expression, Hypertension, and Kidney Injury in Diabetic Mice
Authors: Abdo Shaaban , Shi Yixuan , Otoukesh Abouzar , Ghosh Anindya , Lo Chao-Sheng , Chenier Isabelle , Filep Janos G. , Ingelfinger Julie R. , Zhang Shao Ling , Chan John S.D.
Published: May 2014

This study investigated the impact of catalase (Cat) overexpression in renal proximal tubule cells (RPTCs) on nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2) stimulation of angiotensinogen (Agt) gene expression and the development of hypertension and renal injury in diabetic Akita transgenic mice. Additionally, adult male mice were treated with the Nrf2 activator oltipraz with or without the inhibitor trigonelline. Rat RPTCs, stably transfected with plasmid containing either rat Agt or Nrf2 gene promoter, were also studied. Cat overexpression normalized systolic BP, attenuated renal injury, and inhibited RPTC Nrf2, Agt, and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) gene expression in Akita Cat transgenic mice compared with Akita mice. In vitro, high glucose level, hydrogen peroxide, and oltipraz stimulated Nrf2 and Agt gene expression; these changes were blocked by trigonelline, small interfering RNAs of Nrf2, antioxidants, or pharmacological inhibitors of nuclear factor-κB and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase. The deletion of Nrf2-responsive elements in the rat Agt gene promoter abolished the stimulatory effect of oltipraz. Oltipraz administration also augmented Agt, HO-1, and Nrf2 gene expression in mouse RPTCs and was reversed by trigonelline. These data identify a novel mechanism, Nrf2-mediated stimulation of intrarenal Agt gene expression and activation of the renin-angiotensin system, by which hyperglycemia induces hypertension and renal injury in diabetic mice.
Poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) thin films can act as autologous cell carriers for skin tissue engineering
Authors: Zuber Aleksandra , Borowczyk Julia , Zimolag Eliza , Krok Malgorzata , Madeja Zbigniew , Pamula Elzbieta , Drukala Justyna
Published: May 2014

Degradable aliphatic polyesters such as polylactides, polyglycolides and their copolymers are used in several biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. We analyzed the influence of poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) thin films on the adhesion, proliferation, motility and differentiation of primary human skin keratinocytes and fibroblasts in the context of their potential use as cell carriers for skin tissue engineering. We did not observe visible differences in the morphology, focal contact appearance, or actin cytoskeleton organization of skin cells cultured on PLGA films compared to those cultured under control conditions. Moreover, we did not detect biologically significant differences in proliferative activity, migration parameters, level of differentiation, or expression of vinculin when the cells were cultured on PLGA films and tissue culture polystyrene. Our results indicate that PLGA films do not affect the basic functions of primary human skin keratinocytes and fibroblasts and thus show acceptable biocompatibility in vitro, paving the way for their use as biomaterials for skin tissue engineering.
Cross-Sectional Study to Examine Evidence-Based Practice Skills and Behaviors of Physical Therapy Graduates: Is There a Knowledge-to-Practice Gap?
Authors: Manns Patricia J. , Norton Amy V. , Darrah Johanna
Published: May 2014

Background

Curricula changes in physical therapist education programs in Canada emphasize evidence-based practice skills, including literature retrieval and evaluation. Do graduates use these skills in practice?

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of research information in the clinical decision making of therapists with different years of experience and evidence-based practice preparation. Perceptions about evidence-based practice were explored qualitatively.

Design

A cross-sectional study with 4 graduating cohorts was conducted.

Methods

Eighty physical therapists representing 4 different graduating cohorts participated in interviews focused on 2 clinical scenarios. Participants had varying years of clinical experience (range=1–15 years) and academic knowledge of evidence-based practice skills. Therapists discussed the effectiveness of interventions related to the scenarios and identified the sources of information used to reach decisions. Participants also answered general questions related to evidence-based practice knowledge.

Results

Recent graduates demonstrated better knowledge of evidence-based practice skills compared with therapists with 6 to 15 years of clinical experience. However, all groups used clinical experience most frequently as their source of information for clinical decisions. Research evidence was infrequently included in decision making.

Limitations

This study used a convenience sample of therapists who agreed to volunteer for the study.

Conclusions

The results suggest a knowledge-to-practice gap; graduates are not using the new skills to inform their practice. Tailoring academic evidence-based activities more to the time constraints of clinical practice may help students to be more successful in applying evidence in practice. Academic programs need to do more to create and nurture environments in both academic and clinical settings to ensure students practice using evidence-based practice skills across settings.
Instructional Alignment as a Measure of Teaching Quality
Authors: Polikoff Morgan S. , Porter Andrew C.
Published: May 2014

Recent years have seen the convergence of two major policy streams in U.S. K–12 education: standards/accountability and teacher quality reforms. Work in these areas has led to the creation of multiple measures of teacher quality, including measures of their instructional alignment to standards/assessments, observational and student survey measures of pedagogical quality, and measures of teachers’ contributions to student test scores. This article is the first to explore the extent to which teachers’ instructional alignment is associated with their contributions to student learning and their effectiveness on new composite evaluation measures using data from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s Measures of Effective Teaching study. Finding surprisingly weak associations, we discuss potential research and policy implications for both streams of policy.
Magnetic resonance imaging abnormalities in the resection region correlate with histopathological type, gliosis extent, and postoperative outcome in pediatric cortical dysplasia
Authors: Leach James L. , Miles Lili , Henkel David M. , Greiner Hansel M. , Kukreja Marcia K. , Holland Katherine D. , Rose Douglas F. , Zhang Bin , Mangano Francesco T.
Published: May 2014

Object

The authors conducted a study to correlate histopathological features, MRI findings, and postsurgical outcomes in children with cortical dysplasia (CD) by performing a novel resection site–specific evaluation.

Methods

The study cohort comprised 43 children with intractable epilepsy and CD. The MR image review was blinded to pathology but with knowledge of the resection location. An MRI score (range 0–7) was calculated for each resection region based on the number of imaging features of CD and was classified as “lesional” or “nonlesional” according to all imaging features. Outcome was determined using the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) scale. The determination of pathological CD type was based on the ILAE 2011 consensus classification system, and the cortical gliosis pattern was assessed on GFAP staining.

Results

There were 89 resection regions (50 ILAE Type I, 29 Type IIa, and 10 Type IIb). Eleven (25.6%) of 43 children had more than one type of CD. The authors observed MRI abnormalities in 63% of patients, characteristic enough to direct resection (lesional) in 42%. Most MRI features, MRI score ≥ 3, and lesional abnormalities were more common in patients with Type II CD. Increased cortical signal was more common in those with Type IIb (70%) rather than Type IIa (17.2%) CD (p = 0.004). A good outcome was demonstrated in 39% of children with Type I CD and 72% of those with Type II CD (61% in Type IIa and 100% in Type IIb) (p = 0.03). A lesional MRI abnormality and an MRI score greater than 3 correlated with good outcome in 78% and 90% of patients, respectively (p < 0.03). Diffuse cortical gliosis was more prevalent in Type II CD and in resection regions exhibiting MRI abnormalities. Complete surgical exclusion of the MRI abnormality was associated with a better postoperative outcome.

Conclusions

This study provides a detailed correlation of MRI findings, neuropathological features, and outcomes in children with intractable epilepsy by using a novel resection site–specific evaluation. Because 25% of the patients had multiple CD subtypes, a regional analysis approach was mandated. Those children with lesional MRI abnormalities, Type II CD, and surgical exclusion of the MRI abnormality had better outcomes. Type II CD is more detectable by MRI than other types, partly because of the greater extent of associated gliosis in Type II. Although MRI findings were correlated with the pathological CD type and outcome in this study, the majority of patients (58%) did not have MRI findings that could direct surgical therapy, underscoring the need for improved MRI techniques for detection and for the continued use of multimodal evaluation methods in patient selection.