bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A prospective study of concussion education in 2 junior ice hockey teams: implications for sports concussion education
Authors: Echlin Paul Sean , Johnson Andrew M. , Riverin Suzanne , Tator Charles H. , Cantu Robert C. , Cusimano Michael D. , Taunton Jack E. , Upshur Ross E. G. , Hall Craig R. , Forwell Lorie A. , Skopelja Elaine N.
Published: November 2010

Object

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an educational intervention on concussion knowledge within a sample of junior fourth-tier ice hockey players.

Methods

A prospective cohort study, called the Hockey Concussion Education Project, was conducted during 1 junior ice hockey regular season (2009–2010) with 67 male fourth-tier ice hockey players (mean age 18.2 ± 1.2 years, range 16–21 years) from 2 teams. All participating players were randomized into 3 concussion education intervention groups (DVD group, interactive computer module [ICM] group, or control group) before the beginning of the season. Each individual received a preintervention knowledge test prior to the intervention. The DVD and ICM groups received a posttest after the completion of their intervention. All participants were offered the same knowledge test at 15 games (50 days) and 30 games (91 days) later.

Results

In the concussion education intervention component no significant group differences were observed at baseline between individuals in the control group and between individuals within the interventional group. At the 15-game follow-up, however, the difference between groups approached significance (F [1, 30] = 3.91, p = 0.057). This group difference remained consistent at the 30-game follow-up.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates a positive trend concerning concussion education intervention and knowledge acquisition with either the ICMs or the educational DVD. Both forms of intervention produced a positive and sustainable improvement that approached statistical significance when compared with the control group. The control group demonstrated a negative longitudinal trend concerning concussion knowledge.
Nursing Specialty Certification and Nursing-Sensitive Patient Outcomes in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Krapohl Greta , Manojlovich Milisa , Redman Richard , Zhang Lingling
Published: November 2010

Background

To the public and to individual nurses, certification usually means expert, high-quality, competent nursing care. Little research, however, has yielded results that support, or refute, any differences in clinical practice between certified and noncertified nurses.

Objectives

To determine whether the proportion of certified nurses on a unit is associated with the rate of nurse-sensitive patient outcomes.

Methods

A nonexperimental, correlational, descriptive design was used to anonymously survey 866 nurses working in 25 intensive care units in Southeast Michigan. The Conditions for Work Effectiveness Questionnaire-II was used to measure workplace empowerment, and an additional question was asked about certification status. Outcome data were simultaneously collected on 3 nurse-sensitive patient outcomes: (1) rate of central line catheter-associated blood stream infection, (2) rate of ventilator-associated pneumonia, and (3) prevalence of pressure ulcers. Data were aggregated and analyzed at the unit level.

Results

No significant relationship was found between the proportion of certified nurses on a unit and patients’ outcomes. The association between nurses’ perception of overall work-place empowerment and certification, however, was positive and statistically significant (r=.397, P=.05).

Conclusions

Although a link between certification and nurse-sensitive outcomes was not established, the association between workplace empowerment and the proportion of certified nurses on a unit underscores the importance of organizational factors in the promotion of nursing certification.
Evaluation of the Monitor Cursor-Line Method for Measuring Pulmonary Artery and Central Venous Pressures
Authors: Pasion Editha , Good Levell , Tizon Jisebelle , Krieger Staci , O’Kier Catherine , Taylor Nicole , Johnson Jennifer , Horton Carrie M. , Peterson Mary
Published: November 2010

Objective

To determine if the monitor cursor-line feature on bedside monitors is accurate for measuring central venous and pulmonary artery pressures in cardiac surgery patients.

Methods

Central venous and pulmonary artery pressures were measured via 3 methods (end-expiratory graphic recording, monitor cursor-line display, and monitor digital display) in a convenience sample of postoperative cardiac surgery patients. Pressures were measured twice during both mechanical ventilation and spontaneous breathing. Analysis of variance was used to determine differences between measurement methods and the percentage of monitor pressures that differed by 4 mm Hg or more from the measurement obtained from the graphic recording. Significance level was set at P less than .05.

Results

Twenty-five patients were studied during mechanical ventilation (50 measurements) and 21 patients during spontaneous breathing (42 measurements). Measurements obtained via the 3 methods did not differ significantly for either type of pressure (P > .05). Graphically recorded pressures and measurements obtained via the monitor cursor-line or digital display methods differed by 4 mm Hg or more in 4% and 6% of measurements, respectively, during mechanical ventilation and 4% and 11%, respectively, during spontaneous breathing.

Conclusion

The monitor cursor-line method for measuring central venous and pulmonary artery pressures may be a reasonable alternative to the end-expiratory graphic recording method in hemodynamically stable, postoperative cardiac surgery patients. Use of the digital display on the bedside monitor may result in larger discrepancies from the graphically recorded pressures than when the cursor-line method is used, particularly in spontaneously breathing patients.
A Comparison of Two Anastomotic Techniques in the Jejunum of the Goat
Authors: Al-Timmemi H. A. , Al-Jashamy Karim , Dauod Mohammed S.
Published: November 2010

This study was carried out to test two different anastomotic techniques to identify advantages and disadvantages of each technique in goats. All animals were under local infiltration anaesthesia. A five-cm length of jejunum was resected from the first part of the jejunum and end to end anastomosis using 3-0 Polygalactin-910 with one row of sero-submoucosal interrupted sutures (SSIS) group, and one row of horizontal mattress interrupted sutures (HMIS) group. Two animals from each group were euthanized on the 4th, 14th and 21st postoperative days. A 7-cm segment of jejunum including the anastomosed area was resected from each animal. There was no significant adhesion between anastomosis area and surrounded tissues observed in SSIS animals, while there was significant adhesion between anastomosis area and surrounded tissues which were observed in HMIS animals. Stenosis degree was lower in the SSIS than the HMIS group. The bursting pressure was higher in the SSIS than the HMIS group. Macroscopic evaluation indicated that the anastomotic line mucosa was abridged better with less local edema in the SSIS group. Histological evaluation in the SSIS group showed almost all parameters such as epithelial recovery and repair of submucosal-mucosal layer demonstrated better healing compared to the HMIS group.
Modes of Neuronal Calcium Entry and Homeostasis following Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Cross J. L. , Meloni B. P. , Bakker A. J. , Lee S. , Knuckey N. W.
Published: November 2010

One of the major instigators leading to neuronal cell death and brain damage following cerebral ischemia is calcium dysregulation. The neuron's inability to maintain calcium homeostasis is believed to be a result of increased calcium influx and impaired calcium extrusion across the plasma membrane. The need to better understand the cellular and biochemical mechanisms of calcium dysregulation contributing to neuronal loss following stroke/cerebral ischemia is essential for the development of new treatments in order to reduce ischemic brain injury. The aim of this paper is to provide a concise overview of the various calcium influx pathways in response to ischemia and how neuronal cells attempts to overcome this calcium overload.
Is the Comet Assay a Sensitive Procedure for Detecting Genotoxicity?
Authors: Kawaguchi Satomi , Nakamura Takanori , Yamamoto Ayumi , Honda Gisho , Sasaki Yu F.
Published: November 2010

Although the Comet assay, a procedure for quantitating DNA damage in mammalian cells, is considered sensitive, it has never been ascertained that its sensitivity is higher than the sensitivity of other genotoxicity assays in mammalian cells. To determine whether the power of the Comet assay to detect a low level of genotoxic potential is superior to those of other genotoxicity assays in mammalian cells, we compared the results of Comet assay with those of micronucleus test (MN test). WTK1 human lymphoblastoid cells were exposed to methyl nitrosourea (MNU), ethyl nitrosourea (ENU), methyl methanesulfonate (MMS), ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS), bleomycin (BLM), or UVC. In Comet assay, cells were exposed to each mutagen with (Comet assay/araC) and without (Comet assay) DNA repair inhibitors (araC and hydroxyurea). Furthermore, acellular Comet assay (acellular assay) was performed to determine how single‐strand breaks (SSBs) as the initial damage contributes to DNA migration and/or to micronucleus formation. The lowest genotoxic dose (LGD), which is defined as the lowest dose at which each mutagen causes a positive response on each genotoxicity assay, was used to compare the power of the Comet assay to detect a low level of genotoxic potential and that of MN test; that is, a low LGD indicates a high power. Results are summarized as follows: (1) for all mutagens studied, LGDs were MN test ≦ Comet assay; (2) except for BLM, LGDs were Comet assay/araC ≦ MN test; (3) except for UVC and MNU, LGDs were acellular assay ≦ Comet assay/araC ≦ MN test ≦ Comet assay. The following is suggested by the present findings: (1) LGD in the Comet assay is higher than that in MN test, which suggests that the power of the MN test to detect a low level of genotoxic potential is superior to that of the Comet assay; (2) for the studied mutagens, all assays were able to detect all mutagens correctly, which suggests that the sensitivity of the Comet assay and that of the MN test were exactly identical; (3) the power of the Comet assay to detect a low level of genotoxic potential can be elevated to a level higher than that of MN test by using DNA resynthesis inhibitors, such as araC and HU.
Extraction and Application of Laccases from Shimeji Mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) Residues in Decolourisation of Reactive Dyes and a Comparative Study Using Commercial Laccase fromAspergillus oryzae
Authors: Teixeira Ricardo Sposina S. , Pereira Patrícia Maia , Ferreira-Leitão Viridiana S.
Published: November 2010

Oxidases are able to degrade organic pollutants; however, high costs associated with biocatalysts production still hinder their use in environmental biocatalysis. Our study compared the action of a commercial laccase fromAspergillus oryzaeand a rich extract fromPleurotus ostreatuscultivation residues in decolourisation of reactive dyes: Drimaren Blue X-3LR (DMBLR), Drimaren Blue X-BLN (DMBBLN), Drimaren Rubinol X-3LR (DMR), and Drimaren Blue C-R (RBBR). The colour removal was evaluated by considering dye concentration, reaction time, absence or presence of the mediator ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), and the source of laccase. The presence of ABTS was essential for decolourisation of DMR (80–90%, 1 h) and RBBR (80–90%, 24 h) with both laccases. The use of ABTS was not necessary in reactions containing DMBLR (85–97%, 1 h) and DMBBLN (63–84%, 24 h). The decolourisation of DMBBLN by commercial laccase showed levels near 60% while the crude extract presented 80% in 24 h.
Paired-Pulse Inhibition in the Auditory Cortex in Parkinson's Disease and Its Dependence on Clinical Characteristics of the Patients
Authors: Lukhanina Elena , Berezetskaya Natalia , Karaban Irina
Published: November 2010

We aimed to determine the value of the paired-pulse inhibition (PPI) in the auditory cortex in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) and analyze its dependence on clinical characteristics of the patients. The central (Cz) auditory evoked potentials were recorded in 58 patients with PD and 22 age-matched healthy subjects. PPI of the N1/P2 component was significantly(P<.001)reduced for interstimulus intervals 500, 700, and 900 ms in patients with PD compared to control subjects. The value of PPI correlated negatively with the age of the PD patients(P<.05), age of disease onset(P<.05), body bradykinesia score(P<.01), and positively with the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) cognitive score(P<.01). Negative correlation between value of PPI and the age of the healthy subjects(P<.05)was also observed. Thus, results show that cortical inhibitory processes are deficient in PD patients and that the brain's ability to carry out the postexcitatory inhibition is age-dependent.
Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles from Desmodium triflorum: A Novel Approach Towards Weed Utilization
Authors: Ahmad Naheed , Sharma Seema , Singh V. N. , Shamsi S. F. , Fatma Anjum , Mehta B. R.
Published: November 2010

A single-step environmental friendly approach is employed to synthesize silver nanoparticles. The biomolecules found in plants induce the reduction of Ag+ ions from silver nitrate to silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). UV-visible spectrum of the aqueous medium containing silver ions demonstrated a peak at 425 nm corresponding to the plasmon absorbance of silver nanoparticles. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed the formation of well-dispersed silver nanoparticles in the range of 5–20 nm. X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectrum of the AgNPs exhibited 2θ values corresponding to the silver nanocrystal. The process of reduction is extracellular and fast which may lead to the development of easy biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles. Plants during glycolysis produce a large amount of H+ ions along with NAD which acts as a strong redoxing agent; this seems to be responsible for the formation of AgNPs. Water-soluble antioxidative agents like ascorbic acids further seem to be responsible for the reduction of AgNPs. These AgNPs produced show good antimicrobial activity against common pathogens.
Lessons from Studies in Middle-Aged and Older Adults Living in Mediterranean Islands: The Role of Dietary Habits and Nutrition Services
Authors: Tyrovolas Stefanos , Polychronopoulos Evangelos
Published: November 2010

Background. Islands in the Mediterranean basin share particular habits and traditions and greater life expectancy than other European regions. In this paper, particular interest has been given to the effect of the Mediterranean diet, as well as nutritional services on CVD risk, on Mediterranean islands.Methods. Published results from observational studies were retrieved from electronic databases (Pubmed and Scopus) and summarized.Results. Prevalence of CVD risk factors is increased. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was moderate, even among the elderly participants. Furthermore, the presence of a dietician was associated with higher adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern and consequently lowers CVD risk.Conclusion. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet is reduced, while the prevalence of CVD risk factors is increasing at alarming rates. Public health nutrition policy has the opportunity to improve the health and quality of life of people living in isolated insular areas of the Mediterranean basin.
‘No condom, no sex’: Easy to say, but not possible for all South African women
Authors: Maree Johanna E.
Published: November 2010

Cervical cancer is the most common cancer in South African women. The human papillomavirus(HPV) is the biggest risk factor for developing this cancer. However, condom use protects against HPV transmission. The purpose of the study was to investigate whether Black women living in Tshwane, South Africa, were able to protect themselves against cervical cancer by insisting on condom use. The study was exploratory, qualitative and contextual, and a convenience snowball sampling method was used. The sample size was determined through data saturation (n = 20). Selfreported data were gathered by means of interviews, and analysed using Tesch’s approach. Four themes emerged, (1) knowledge of cervical cancer, (2) sexual behaviour, (3) social problems and (4) emotions. The study provided evidence that women were not able to protect themselves from cervical cancer by insisting on condom use. Women lacked knowledge of cervical cancer and did not associate condom use with self-protection against this disease. Most of their sex partners refused to use condoms. Poverty, physical abuse, helplessness and fear prevented women from insisting on the use of condoms. Primary prevention strategies should focus on empowering women to protect themselves from cervical cancer and not leave this important issue to someone who might refuse it.OpsommingServikskarsinoom is die mees algemene kanker in Suid-Afrikaanse vroue. Die menslike papiloom virus (MPV) is die grootse oorsaak van hierdie kanker. Oordraging van die virus kan egter met kondoomgebruik voorkom word. Die doel van die studie was om te bepaal of Swart vroue woonagtig in Tshwane, Suid-Afrika, hulself teen die virus kan beskerm deur op kondoomgebruik aan te dring.Die studie was eksploratief, kwalitatief en kontekstueel en ’n gerieflikheids sneeubal metode het die steekproef gerig. Die steekproefgrootte is deur dataversadiging bepaal (n = 20). Data is ingesamel deur middel van onderhoude en die data is met behulp van Tesch se metode geanaliseer. Vier temas is geïdentifiseer, (1) kennis van servikskarsinoom, (2) seksuele gedrag, (3) sosiale probleme en (4)emosies. Die studie het bevind dat vroue hulle nie self teen servikskarsinoom kan beskerm deur op kondome aan te dring nie. Kennis van die siekte was so gebrekkig dat vroue nie kondoomgebruik met servikskarsinoom vereenselwig het nie. Die meeste van hul seksmaats het geweier om kondome te gebruik. Armmoede, fisiese geweld, hulpeloosheid en vrees het vroue weerhou om op die gebruik van kondome aan te dring. Primêre voorkomingstrategië behoort op selfbemagtiging van vroue te konsentreer. Dit sal voorkom dat vroue van mans, wat hulle die reg kan weier, afhanklik is vir beskerming teen servikskarsinoom.
Die een wat sal kom: 'Messiaanse tekste' in die Ou Testament en ander Joodse geskrifte
Authors: Groenewald Alphonso
Published: November 2010

The one who is to come: �Messianic texts� in the Old Testament and other Jewish writingsAccording to the New-Testament authors, the life of Jesus, as Christ, should be seen in light of the Old-Testament texts. It seems that all the messianic texts in the Old Testament had been fulfilled in Jesus. The Messiah, who had been expected for a long time, was born in Bethlehem. This interpretation by the New-Testament authors has caused the church and Christians throughout the centuries to read the Old Testament as a prophecy, which is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. This interpretation has caused impatience with Jews, who did not accept Jesus of Nazareth as the Messiah. This article addresses the question: How did ancient Israel understand the concept �messiah�? It seems that the term is much more complex than a single meaning would allow the reader to believe. This article thus focuses on the theological functioning of the term within the Hebrew Bible as well as in other Jewish writings.
Analysis of the Relationship between Diet and Exercise Beliefs and Actual Behaviors among Breast Cancer Survivors in Northwest Ohio
Authors: Weiner Jeffrey G. , Jordan Timothy R. , Thompson Amy J. , Fink Brian N.
Published: November 2010

Introduction

Studies have shown that a diet high in fruit and vegetable intake, as well as a routine including daily exercise or physical activity, can independently affect relapse rates and survivorship in breast cancer patients. Fruits and vegetables contain powerful anti-oxidant molecules, capable of preventing tumor formation and proliferation. Exercise can lower circulating levels of estrogen, the female hormone responsible for tumor proliferation in the estrogen-sensitive form of the disease. The most beneficial results have been shown in women who exercise and consume a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. We studied the attitudes towards and behaviors related to fruit and vegetable intake and exercise in a cohort of breast cancer survivors in northwest Ohio.

Materials and Methods

Data were gathered from a survey sent out by the Northwest Ohio Branch of the Susan G. Komen For the Cure Foundation. We assessed and evaluated survivors’ self-reported beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors regarding exercise and fruit and vegetable intake.

Results

Nearly half of the survivors (46.5%) reported being unsure or in disagreement with the statement “Eating at least 5 servings of fruits and/or vegetables per day will reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence.” Only 46.8% of those in agreement with the previous statement actually report eating at least 5 fruits and/or vegetables per day. With respect to exercise, 32.9% reported being unsure or in disagreement with the statement “Engaging in regular physical activity will reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence.” Only 68.5% of those in agreement with the previous statement report any physical activity in the past 30 days.

Conclusions

Many breast cancer survivors do not appear to be aware of the benefits of diet and exercise. Further, a large proportion of those who are aware of the benefits do not adapt a healthy diet and exercise as part of their lifestyle. A majority of these survivors see a primary care physician, which we believe is the best venue to bridge this education gap. It is apparent by the pattern our data shows that more needs to be done to educate breast cancer survivors about the benefits of exercise and fruit and vegetable intake. Steps need to be taken to ensure that those who are educated also remain motivated to engage in a healthy lifestyle with the hopes of avoiding breast cancer recurrence.
Invasive Lobular Carcinomas Do Not Express Basal Cytokeratin Markers CK5/6, CK14 and CK17
Authors: Khilko Natalya , Wang Jianmin , Wei Bing , Hicks David G. , Tang Ping
Published: November 2010

The expression of basal cytokeratin markers CK5/6 in breast carcinomas has been associated with high histological grade and poor clinical outcome. A previous study has shown that CK5/6 can be detected in up to 17% of invasive lobular carcinomas (ILC). Here we study the expression of three basal cytokeratin markers (CK5/6, CK14, and CK17) in 53 ILC cases diagnosed by histology and lack of E-cadherin expression. Among them, 42 were classic lobular carcinomas, 6 were tubular-lobular carcinoma, and 5 were pleomorphic lobular carcinomas. There was no significant difference among these three groups in patients’ age, tumor size, uni- and multi-focality, expression of ER and PR, lymphovascular invasion, perineural invasion and lymph node metastasis. The only statistically different factor was HER2 over-expression, which was observed only in pleomorphic ILC ( P = 0.0073). None of the 53 cases expressed CK5/6, CK14 or CK17; and 51/53 cases expressed luminal markers CK8 and CK18, and the two negative cases were both classic lobular carcinoma, with positivity for ER and PR. In conclusion, all 53 cases of ILC failed to show expression by any of the three basal CK markers, suggesting that very few ILC will demonstrate a basal phenotype when assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC). More studies are needed to investigate molecular classification in lobular carcinoma of the breast.
A Review of the Management of Gastric Acid-Related Diseases: Focus on Rabeprazole
Authors: Kusano Motoyasu , Kuribayashi Shikou , Kawamura Osamu , Shimoyama Yasuyuki , Hosaka Hiroko , Nagoshi Atsuto , Zai Hiroaki , Mori Masatomo
Published: November 2010

Current treatment guidelines for acid-related diseases (ARDs) recommend first-line treatment with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to reduce gastric acid production. PPIs are indicated in the management of gastroesophageal reflux disease (reflux esophagitis, nonerosive reflux disease), peptic ulcer (gastric and duodenal ulcer, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-associated ulcer, bleeding ulcer), functional dyspepsia, and in association with Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy when needed. Currently, PPIs (omeprazole, lansoprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole and esomeprazole) are widely used for the treatment of ARDs. All 5 PPIs are effective. However, there are differences in PPI pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles that might influence their clinical utility. Rabeprazole is a useful option for the treatment of acid-related diseases due to its rapid onset of acid inhibition and few drug interactions.
A Review of Intervention Studies That Seek to Increase Colorectal Cancer Screening among African-Americans
Authors: Powe Barbara D. , Faulkenberry Rachel , Harmond Lokie
Published: November 2010

Objective.

The purpose of this paper is to critically review intervention studies that aimed to increase African-Americans' participation in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening.

Data Source.

Potential studies were identified using a combination of key words in five computerized databases.

Study Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria.

Articles were selected if they met all of the inclusion criteria: (1) The study's purpose was to test an intervention to increase CRC screening. (2) At least 50% of the sample was African-American. (3) The study focused on individuals 50 years and older. (4) The study was published between 2000 and 2008.

Data Extraction.

Abstracts and reference lists were scanned to determine relevance and a copy of the article was obtained.

Data Synthesis.

Data from each study were extracted and placed in a matrix for synthesis.

Results.

Interventions focused on recruitment from health care centers, churches, housing projects, and senior centers. Both direct and indirect strategies were used to identify the barriers to CRC screening.

Conclusions.

Findings suggest that interventions are most successful when they target individuals or communities, address known barriers to screening, deliver tailored messages, use multiple methods of message delivery, and are delivered over multiple time points.
Health Information in Vietnamese-American Print Media: Results of a Content Analysis
Authors: Nguyen Giang T. , Ashfaq Hera , Pham TuongVi H.
Published: November 2010

Purpose.

Vietnamese-Americans (VA) constitute a large minority community that is mostly foreign born with limited English proficiency. This article compares the health content of free print media targeting VA with that of free English-language print media.

Design.

Content analysis.

Setting.

All free print media available at the three largest VA-serving supermarkets in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, were reviewed. Comparison English-language periodicals included free and purchased publications.

Measures.

We identified and coded 254 health content–containing articles from 22 issues of six periodicals (four free Vietnamese, one free English language, and one purchased English language) collected over a 4-week period.

Analysis.

Chi-square and t-tests for independent samples were used to compare free Vietnamese- and free English-language periodicals. Additional analyses included all English-language periodicals as the comparison group.

Results.

Higher proportions of advertisements and “pseudonews” articles (ads formatted like news stories) were found in free Vietnamese- vs. free English-language publications (overt ads, 61% vs. 28%; pseudonews, 18% vs. 0%). Moreover, Vietnamese-language publications did not contain many articles addressing diseases most commonly found in Asian-Americans.

Discussion.

The significant proportion made up by profit-motivated health content in VA print media points to an untapped opportunity to provide evidence-based information about health topics of interest to this community. Future studies should examine secular trends, assess multiple communities, and develop community-based participatory approaches to improving access to quality health information among minorities with limited English proficiency.
A Culturally Focused Wellness Intervention for American Indian Women of a Small Southwest Community: Associations with Alcohol Use, Abstinence Self-Efficacy, Symptoms of Depression, and Self-Esteem
Authors: Gray Norma , Mays Mary Z. , Wolf Denise , Jirsak Janice
Published: November 2010

Purpose.

This study examined the influence of a culturally focused wellness intervention on alcohol consumption, alcohol abstinence self-efficacy, depression, and self-esteem among women of a small American Indian community in the southwestern United States. Participation in two intervention approaches was compared: a curriculum-based health promotion–only approach and health promotion combined with cognitive-behavioral skills building (CBSB).

Design.

The wellness intervention was tested in a prospective, randomized, two-group design with repeated measures. There was no control group.

Setting.

An American Indian community in the Southwest.

Subjects.

American Indian women, ages 18 to 50 (N = 268).

Intervention.

A 10-session culturally focused curriculum-based health promotion intervention, with a CBSB component, was developed using a community-based participatory research process. Comparisons were made between those who attended the health promotion plus CBSB intervention and those who attended the intervention without the CBSB component.

Measures.

Information regarding demographics, substance use, alcohol consumption, alcohol abstinence self-efficacy, depressive symptoms, and self-esteem was collected through a structured interview.

Analysis.

Regression was used to evaluate the effect of the intervention on alcohol consumption, alcohol abstinence self-efficacy, depressive symptoms, and self-esteem in CBSB and non-CBSB groups.

Results.

Although there were no significant differences between the CBSB and non-CBSB groups, the results indicate a significant decrease in alcohol consumption and symptoms of depression, and a significant increase in alcohol abstinence self-efficacy and self-esteem, from baseline to the 6-month follow-up for both groups.

Conclusion.

Evidence suggests that this culturally focused health promotion intervention has a positive impact on alcohol use, alcohol abstinence self-efficacy, depressive symptoms, and self-esteem among American Indian women.
Management Support of Workplace Health Promotion: Field Test of the Leading by Example Tool
Authors: Della Lindsay J. , DeJoy David M. , Mitchell Shannon Gwin , Goetzel Ron Z. , Roemer Enid Chung , Wilson Mark G.
Published: November 2010

Purpose.

This study tested a repeated-measures application of the Leading by Example (LBE) questionnaire, a self-report instrument measuring organizational leadership support for health promotion.

Design.

The efficacy of the LBE was tested in a quasi-experimental health promotion intervention trial. Twelve worksites were assigned to three intervention conditions (i.e., control, moderate, high intensity).

Setting.

The worksites were selected from a large U.S.-based chemical company.

Subjects.

Baseline data were collected from employees in various job roles in 2005 (N = 125). Follow-up data were collected in 2006 (N = 114) and 2007 (N = 106). Response rates ranged from 54% to nearly three-fourths of potential respondents.

Intervention.

Worksites assigned to both treatment conditions received changes in the built environment via supports for weight management. Worksites assigned to the intense condition received additional elements designed to impact leadership's support for a positive health promotion climate.

Measures.

Four LBE factors measuring management support for health were assessed over time.

Analysis.

The Kruskal-Wallis H-test and analyses of variance/covariance were used to compare LBE scores.

Results.

Significant changes from baseline to 2006 were identified for the four factors (p = .000) of the LBE. No significant changes were found from 2006 to 2007.

Conclusions.

The LBE effectively captured perceptions of management support for health. Researchers and practitioners alike should consider using the LBE to track and evaluate perceptions of management support for health promotion.
Reliability Test of an Established Pedestrian Environment Audit in Rural Settings
Authors: Fisher Brian D. , Richardson Sandra , Hosler Akiko S.
Published: November 2010

Purpose.

To test inter-rater reliability and internal consistency of a reduced-item version of an environmental audit tool for physical-activity resources in a rural setting.

Design.

A cross-sectional design.

Setting.

Five rural school districts in western New York.

Participants.

A random sample of 391 street segments (i.e., the length of a street contained within a census block.) Fifty street segments were observed a second time for a reliability analysis.

Measure.

The Pedestrian Environmental Data Scan (PEDS), a previously tested instrument for conducting audits of the built environment for physical-activity supports, was used. Modifications were made for use in rural settings.

Analysis.

Four tests of reliability (Kappa [κ]; prevalence-adjusted, bias-adjusted κ [PABAK]; percent agreement; and Spearman rho [ρ]) and one test of internal consistency (Cronbach α) were used.

Results.

Nineteen measures were identified for their utility in the rural setting. These measures had an average κ of .43, an average PABAK of .72, and an average percent agreement of 86.2%, indicating good agreement. They were organized into four subscale areas that had Spearman ρ ranging from moderate (ρ = .38) to strong (ρ = .66). Alpha (α) values for the scale overall (α = .60) and subscales (range, .25–.66) suggested that items included were likely to be multi-dimensional.

Conclusion.

A simpler audit tool has been identified that might be more appropriate for use in the rural setting.
Smoking Cessation Interventions among Hispanics in the United States: A Systematic Review and Mini Meta-Analysis
Authors: Webb Monica S. , Rodríguez-Esquivel Denise , Baker Elizabeth A.
Published: November 2010

Purpose.

The leading causes of mortality among Hispanics living in the United States are smoking related. This study sought to systematically review smoking cessation interventions targeting healthy Hispanic adults living in the United States, to conduct a “mini” meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, and to offer recommendations for future research.

Data Sources.

Studies were identified through computerized bibliographic databases (PsychINFO, PsycARTICLES, PsycFirst, MEDLINE, Science Direct, and Dissertation Abstracts Online), article reference lists, conference abstracts, and unpublished data through October 2008.

Study Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria.

Evaluation of a smoking cessation intervention among healthy U.S. Hispanic adults. Studies included in the meta-analysis were also required to be randomized controlled trials.

Data Extraction.

Twelve studies were eligible for the systematic review and five studies for the meta-analysis. Two independent raters coded each study.

Data Synthesis.

Interventions consisted of self-help, nicotine replacement therapy, and community-based interventions, as well as individual, group, and telephone counseling. There was evidence for the efficacy of smoking cessation interventions at the end of treatment (odds ratio, 1.54; 95% confidence interval, 1.09–2.16), which was attenuated in the longer term.

Conclusions.

Tobacco use among U.S. Hispanics is a growing public health concern. Smoking cessation interventions demonstrate promise among Hispanic adults living in the United States. More randomized trials evaluating tobacco interventions in this special population are warranted, with examination of the effect of cultural specificity and acculturation.
Using Downloadable Songs from Apple iTunes as a Novel Incentive for College Students Participating in a Web-Based Follow-up Survey
Authors: McCree-Hale Renicha , Cruz Natalie G. De La , Montgomery Ann Elizabeth
Published: November 2010

Purpose.

Compare the impact of offering two versus four downloadable songs on response rates to a Web-based survey.

Design.

One month after participation in a sexual health workshop, students (N = 138) were invited by e-mail to complete a Web-based posttest. The initial incentive of two downloadable songs was increased to four songs midway through data collection.

Setting.

University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Subjects.

Undergraduate participants in a peer education workshop.

Measures.

Response rates were monitored to assess the impact of varying incentive levels on study attrition.

Analysis.

Frequencies and Pearson's χ2 statistics were used to compare response rates between individuals offered two songs and individuals offered four. Response rates were also examined to assess the impact of doubling the incentive among individuals who were nonrespondents when offered only two songs.

Results.

Of respondents offered two songs (n = 61), 18% completed the survey. When the incentive was increased to four songs, 26% of those who had not responded to the invitation for two songs (n = 50) completed the survey. Of respondents only offered four songs (n = 77), 57% completed the survey.

Conclusion.

Increasing incentives from two to four songs significantly improved response rates (p < .001). Determining an acceptable level of incentives for Web-based research has the potential to impact high attrition rates. Downloadable songs could become a mainstream incentive in Web-based research with young adults.
Correlates of Smoking Cessation at Pregnancy Onset among Hispanic Women in Massachusetts
Authors: Haskins Amy , Bertone-Johnson Elizabeth , Pekow Penelope , Carbone Elena , Chasan-Taber Lisa
Published: November 2010

Purpose.

To examine factors associated with smoking cessation at pregnancy onset in Hispanic women.

Design.

Cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from the prospective Latina Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Study.

Setting.

Public obstetrical practices of a medical center in Massachusetts, 2000–2004.

Subjects.

A total of 351 Hispanic (predominantly Puerto Rican) prenatal care patients who smoked in the year prior to pregnancy.

Measures.

At enrollment, interviewers collected self-reported cigarette smoking prior to and during pregnancy and sociodemographic, health, and acculturation factors.

Analysis.

Logistic regression and backward elimination procedures were used to determine factors independently associated with quitting.

Results.

Forty-five percent of women reported quitting smoking at pregnancy onset. In multivariate analyses, women born outside the United States, women with a family history of diabetes, and non–Puerto Rican Hispanics were 32% to 54% more likely to quit smoking. Women with high stress, women with marijuana use, and parous women were 23% to 49% less likely to quit. Women who smoked 20+ cigarettes/d in prepregnancy were less likely to quit smoking (relative risk = .44; 95% confidence interval .27, .65) compared with light smokers. Age, income, body mass index, language preference, prepregnancy exercise, and alcohol consumption were not associated with quitting.

Conclusions.

Non-U.S. birthplace, family history of diabetes, and non–Puerto Rican ethnicity were associated with quitting smoking at pregnancy onset in Hispanic women. Prepregnancy marijuana use and smoking, parity, and stress were associated with continued smoking.
GOME-2 observations of oxygenated VOCs: what can we learn from the ratio glyoxal to formaldehyde on a global scale?
Authors: Vrekoussis M. , Wittrock F. , Richter A. , Burrows J. P.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. Collocated data sets of glyoxal (CHO.CHO) and formaldehyde (HCHO) were retrieved for the first time from measurements of the Global Ozone Monitoring Experiment-2 (GOME-2) during the first two years of operation in 2007 and 2008. Both oxygenated Volatile Organic Compounds, OVOC, are key intermediate species produced during the oxidation of precursor hydrocarbons. Their short lifetime of a few hours in the lower troposphere links them to emission sources and makes them useful tracers of photochemical activity. The global composite maps of GOME-2 HCHO and CHO.CHO have strong similarities confirming their common atmospheric and/or surface sources. The highest column amounts of these OVOCs are recorded over regions with enhance biogenic emissions (e.g. tropical forests in South America, Africa and Indonesia). Enhanced OVOC values are also present over areas of anthropogenic activity and biomass burning (e.g. over China, N. America, Europe and Australia). The ratio of CHO.CHO to HCHO, RGF, has been used, for the first time on a global scale, to classify the sources according to biogenic and/or anthropogenic emissions of the precursors; RGF between 0.040 to 0.060 point to the existence of biogenic emissions with the highest values being observed at the highest Enhanced Vegetation Index, EVI. RGFs below 0.040 are indicative of anthropogenic emissions and associated with high levels of NO2. This decreasing tendency of RGF with increasing NO2 is also observed when analyzing data for individual large cities, indicating that it is a common feature. The results obtained for RGF from GOME-2 data are compared with the findings based on regional SCIAMACHY observations showing good agreement. This is explained by the excellent correlation of the global retrieved column amounts of CHO.CHO and HCHO from the GOME-2 and SCIAMACHY instruments for the period 2007–2008.
New trajectory-driven aerosol and chemical process model Chemical and Aerosol Lagrangian Model (CALM)
Authors: Tunved P. , Partridge D. G. , Korhonen H.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. A new Chemical and Aerosol Lagrangian Model (CALM) has been developed and tested. The model incorporates all central aerosol dynamical processes, from nucleation, condensation, coagulation and deposition to cloud formation and in-cloud processing. The model is tested and evaluated against observations performed at the SMEAR II station located at Hyytiälä (61° 51' N, 24° 17' E) over a time period of two years, 2000–2001. The model shows good agreement with measurements throughout most of the year, but fails in reproducing the aerosol properties during the winter season, resulting in poor agreement between model and measurements especially during December–January. Nevertheless, through the rest of the year both trends and magnitude of modal concentrations show good agreement with observation, as do the monthly average size distribution properties. The model is also shown to capture individual nucleation events to a certain degree. This indicates that nucleation largely is controlled by the availability of nucleating material (as prescribed by the [H2SO4]), availability of condensing material (in this model 15% of primary reactions of monoterpenes (MT) are assumed to produce low volatile species) and the properties of the size distribution (more specifically, the condensation sink). This is further demonstrated by the fact that the model captures the annual trend in nuclei mode concentration. The model is also used, alongside sensitivity tests, to examine which processes dominate the aerosol size distribution physical properties. It is shown, in agreement with previous studies, that nucleation governs the number concentration during transport from clean areas. It is also shown that primary number emissions almost exclusively govern the CN concentration when air from Central Europe is advected north over Scandinavia. We also show that biogenic emissions have a large influence on the amount of potential CCN observed over the boreal region, as shown by the agreement between observations and modeled results for the receptor SMEAR II, Hyytiälä, during the studied period.
Coupling of HOx, NOx and halogen chemistry in the antarctic boundary layer
Authors: Bloss W. J. , Camredon M. , Lee J. D. , Heard D. E. , Plane J. M. C. , Saiz-Lopez A. , Bauguitte S. J.-B. , Salmon R. A. , Jones A. E.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. A modelling study of radical chemistry in the coastal Antarctic boundary layer, based upon observations performed in the course of the CHABLIS (Chemistry of the Antarctic Boundary Layer and the Interface with Snow) campaign at Halley Research Station in coastal Antarctica during the austral summer 2004/2005, is described: a detailed zero-dimensional photochemical box model was used, employing inorganic and organic reaction schemes drawn from the Master Chemical Mechanism, with additional halogen (iodine and bromine) reactions added. The model was constrained to observations of long-lived chemical species, measured photolysis frequencies and meteorological parameters, and the simulated levels of HOx, NOx and XO compared with those observed. The model was able to replicate the mean levels and diurnal variation in the halogen oxides IO and BrO, and to reproduce NOx levels and speciation very well. The NOx source term implemented compared well with that directly measured in the course of the CHABLIS experiments. The model systematically overestimated OH and HO2 levels, likely a consequence of the combined effects of (a) estimated physical parameters and (b) uncertainties within the halogen, particularly iodine, chemical scheme. The principal sources of HOx radicals were the photolysis and bromine-initiated oxidation of HCHO, together with O(1D) + H2O. The main sinks for HOx were peroxy radical self- and cross-reactions, with the sum of all halogen-mediated HOx loss processes accounting for 40% of the total sink. Reactions with the halogen monoxides dominated CH3O2-HO2-OH interconversion, with associated local chemical ozone destruction in place of the ozone production which is associated with radical cycling driven by the analogous NO reactions. The analysis highlights the need for observations of physical parameters such as aerosol surface area and boundary layer structure to constrain such calculations, and the dependence of simulated radical levels and ozone loss rates upon a number of uncertain kinetic and photochemical parameters for iodine species.
Deposition of dinitrogen pentoxide, N2O5, to the snowpack at high latitudes
Authors: Huff D. M. , Joyce P. L. , Fochesatto G. J. , Simpson W. R.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. Dinitrogen pentoxide, N2O5, is an important nighttime intermediate in oxidation of NOx that is hydrolysed on surfaces. We conducted a field campaign in Fairbanks, Alaska during November, 2009 to measure the flux (and deposition velocity) of N2O5 depositing to snowpack using the aerodynamic gradient method. The deposition velocity of N2O5 under Arctic winter conditions was found to be 0.59 ± 0.47 cm/s, which is the first measurement of this parameter to our knowledge. Based on the measured deposition velocity, we compared the chemical loss rate of N2O5 via snowpack deposition to the total steady state loss rate and found that deposition to snowpack is a significant fraction of the total chemical removal of N2O5 measured within a few meters of the ground surface.