bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined Raman Spectroscopy and Digital Holographic Microscopy for Sperm Cell Quality Analysis
Authors: De Angelis A. , Managò S. , Ferrara M. A. , Napolitano M. , Coppola G. , De Luca A. C.
Published: April 2017

The diagnosis of male infertility is vastly complex. To date, morphology, motility, and concentration have been used as key parameters to establish the sperm normality and achieve pregnancy both in natural and in assisted fecundation. However, spermatozoa from infertile men could present a variety of alterations, such as DNA fragmentation, alterations of chromatin structure, and aneuploidy, which have been demonstrated to decrease reproductive capacity of men. Therefore, the ability to see detailed relationships between morphology and physiology in selected spermatozoa with submicrometric resolution in a nondestructive and noninvasive way and within a functional correlated context could be extremely important for the intracytoplasmic sperm injection procedure. In this review, we describe label-free optical spectroscopy and imaging techniques, based on the combination of Raman spectroscopy/imaging with holographic imaging, which are able to noninvasively measure the (bio)chemistry and morphology of sperm cells. We discuss the benefits and limitation of the proposed photonic techniques, with particular emphasis on applications in detection/characterization of sperm cell morphological defects and photodamage, and the identification/sorting of X- and Y-bearing bovine spermatozoa.
Characteristics of Prostate Cancer by Opportunistic Screening in Korean Men with a Prostate-Specific Antigen Level Less Than 4.0 ng per Milliliter
Authors: Choi Hoon , Cho Seok , Bae Jae Hyun , Lee Sang Eun , Hong Sung Kyu , Moon Du Geon , Cheon Jun , Byun Seok-Soo , Park Jae Young
Published: April 2017

Background/Aims/Objectives: We studied the detection rate of prostate cancer (PCa) among Korean men with a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level of less than 4.0 ng/mL. Methods: A total of 1,680 men with PSA ≤4 ng/mL had a prostate biopsy from January 2004 to December 2014. The differences in clinical factors were analyzed and their independent predictive implications were evaluated. Results: PCa was diagnosed in 331 (19.6%) and 99 of these 331 cancers (14.9%) had a Gleason score of 7 or higher. The detection rate of PCa increased from 6.67% (≤0.5 ng/mL) to 20.36% (3.01-3.9 ng/mL). There were significant differences in age 65.7 vs. 62.1 years, prostate volume 33.4 vs. 38.2 g, PSA density 0.10 vs. 0.08 ng/mL/mL between men with and without PCa. On multivariable analysis, age and prostate volume were the best independent discriminative parameters. When comparing PCa patients with a Gleason score less than 6 to those with a 7 or higher, patients with a Gleason score 7 or higher were older (67.2 vs. 64.8 years). Conclusions: Even when the PSA level is less than 4 ng/mL, PCas, including high-grade cancers, were detected in a significant number of men. In this group, patients with PCa were older and had a smaller prostate volume and high-grade cancers were detected more frequently in older cancer patients.
Anwendung von Apremilast bei moderater bis schwerer atopischer Dermatitis bei Kindern
Authors: Saporito Rachael C , Cohen David
Published: April 2017

Die atopische Dermatitis (AD) ist eine chronische, pruritische Hauterkrankung, die häufig durch eine bakterielle Superinfektion erschwert wird und von der 10,7% der US-amerikanischen Kinder betroffen sind. Zur Pathogenese gehört ein Zusammenbruch der Hautbarriere neben einer Dysfunktionalität sowohl der angeborenen als auch der adaptiven Immunantwort, einschließlich einer unausgewogenen Zunahme von T-Helferzellen vom Typ 2 (Th2-Zellen) und einer Hyperimmunglobulinämie E. Die erhöhte Anzahl an Th2-Zellen führt durch die Freisetzung von Interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5 und IL-13 zur Produktion von Immunglobulin E und zur Eosinophilie und durch die Freisetzung von IL-10 zu einer Verminderung des Schutzes vor einer bakteriellen Superinfektion. Die gegenwärtig von der Food and Drug Administration (FDA) zugelassene symptomatische Behandlung der AD umfasst topische Salben, topische und systemische Kortikosteroide, topische immunmodulierende Therapien, Antibiotika sowie Phototherapie. Es gibt jedoch keine zugelassenen gezielten Therapien oder Heilmethoden. Der hier vorgestellte Fallbericht eines 8-jährigen afroamerikanischen Jungen unterstützt eine neuartige Therapie der moderaten bis schweren AD mit Apremilast, einem Phosphodiesterase-Typ-4-Inhibitor. Kürzlich wurde eine klinische Phase-II-Studie (NCT02087943) zu Apremilast für die Behandlung von AD bei Erwachsenen abgeschlossen. Dieser Fallbericht veranschaulicht das Potenzial von Apremilast als AD-Therapie für Kinder, bei denen ein großer Bedarf an sicheren und wirksamen Medikationen besteht. Übersetzung aus Case Rep Dermatol 2016;8:179-184 (DOI: 10.1159/000446836)
Cystic Lymphangioma of the Colon: Endoscopic Removal beyond the Frontiers of Size
Authors: Badipatla Kanthi Rekha , Chandrala Chaitanya , Ayyadurai Puvanalingam , Biyyam Madhavi , Sapkota Binita , Niazi Masooma , Nayudu Suresh Kumar
Published: April 2017

Cystic lymphangiomas are benign colonic neoplasms arising from the submucosa. Traditionally, endoscopic resection has been described for smaller lesions, while surgery is reserved for larger symptomatic lesions. We present a case of a 69-year-old asymptomatic individual noted to have a cystic lymphangioma of the colon measuring 5 cm, which was successfully removed with endoloop endoscopic resection without any complications.
Safety and Effectiveness of Bis-Chloroethylnitrosourea Wafer Chemotherapy in Elderly Patients with Recurrent Glioblastoma
Authors: Klein Johann , Juratli Tareq A. , Radev Yordan , Daubner Dirk , Soucek Silke , Schackert Gabriele , Krex Dietmar
Published: April 2017

Objective: To assess the safety and effectiveness of bis-chloroethylnitrosourea (BCNU) wafers in elderly patients with recurrent glioblastoma (GBM). Methods: Patients with recurrent GBM operated on between 2007 and 2014 were divided into 3 groups: >65 years with BCNU wafer implantation, >65 years without BCNU wafer implantation, and ≤65 years with BCNU wafer implantation. We compared survival and complications. Results: A total of 79 patients were identified: 24 in the older BCNU group (median age 68.2 years, 33.3% with a methylated MGMT promoter), 16 in the older non-BCNU group (median age 68.6 years, 31.3% with a methylated MGMT promoter), and 39 in the younger BCNU group (median age 56.8 years). Survival after progression was 9.2 months in the elderly BCNU group and 7.6 months in the elderly non-BCNU group (p = 0.34); overall survival was 17.2 and 15.9 months, respectively (p = 0.35). We found a tendency toward a higher rate of seizures and pneumonia in the older BCNU group. Conclusion: BCNU wafer implantation after resection of recurrent GBM is a reasonably safe treatment in patients aged >65 years. Seizures and systemic infections may occur more frequently, but the trade-off is still favorable as survival may be influenced positively. Higher age should not be regarded as a contraindication for BCNU wafers.
Long-Term Follow-Up of Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy Secondary to Angioid Streaks Treated by Intravitreal Aflibercept and Ranibizumab
Authors: Wong James G. , Qian Katherine Yu
Published: April 2017

Purpose: Angioid streaks (AS) are dehiscences in Bruch’s membrane that may be idiopathic or associated with numerous systemic illnesses. Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) is an underdiagnosed exudative chorioretinopathy often characterised by serosanguineous detachments of the pigmented epithelium. The use of the anti-VEGF agents ranibizumab and aflibercept in the management of PCV secondary to AS has not been previously documented. We report 3 patients with active PCV secondary to AS, 1 of which had a family history of PCV secondary to AS, not previously reported in the literature. All patients were symptomatic and treated with intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy with and without combination photodynamic therapy (PDT). Methods: This is a long-term retrospective case review of 3 eyes of 3 patients with AS and clinical features of PCV. The patients were examined using fundoscopy, spectral domain optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography, and indocyanine green angiography. All patients were managed with intravitreal anti-VEGF using a treat-and-extend protocol according to specific retreatment criteria. One patient had 1 session of PDT in combination with anti-VEGF injections. Results: The mean follow-up time in all patients was 4 years. In all 3 cases, the treatment resulted in improved visual acuity and regression of active PCV lesions with a longer duration between injections. Conclusion: The treat-and-extend protocol with intravitreal aflibercept or ranibizumab with or without PDT is effective and safe for PCV secondary to AS.
Successful Endoscopic Management of Late Biliary Cast Syndrome in a Liver Transplant Recipient: A Case Report
Authors: Mahler Manuel Alejandro , Marcaccio Federico , Dumonceau Jean-Marc , Macías Gómez Carlos
Published: April 2017

Biliary cast syndrome (BCS) is an unusual complication of liver transplantation (LT). The pathophysiology is not known, and it is thought to develop because of mucosal damage in the bile duct related to obstruction, ischemia, or bacterial infection. It occurs in 2.5–18% of LT patients and is associated with increased graft failure, need for retransplantation, and mortality. Here we report on a case of BCS of late appearance after LT who was successfully treated by endoscopic means.
Taxonomic review of Drilini (Elateridae: Agrypninae) in Cameroon reveals high morphological diversity, including the discovery of five new genera
Authors: Kundrata Robin , Bocak Ladislav
Published: April 2017

The first comprehensive survey of the Cameroonian Drilini fauna is presented. High diversity was identified in the zone of tropical rain forest and five genera are proposed: Flabelloselasia gen. n., Kupeselasia gen. n., Lolosia gen. n., Microselasia gen. n., and Wittmerselasia gen. n. with the subgenus Latoselasia subgen. n. The following species are described: Flabelloselasia oculata sp. n., Kupeselasia minuta sp. n., Lolosia transversalis sp. n., Microselasia barombi sp. n., M. elongata sp. n., M. gracilis sp. n., M. grandis sp. n., M. kupensis sp. n., M. lolodorfensis sp. n., M. macrocephala sp. n., M. obscura sp. n., M. pseudograndis sp. n., Wittmerselasia camerooniana sp. n., W. davidsoni sp. n., W. geiseri sp. n., W. variabilis sp. n., and W. (Latoselasia) similis sp. n. Selasia maculata
Wittmer, 1989 is redescribed and transferred to Wittmerselasia gen. n. as W. maculata (Wittmer, 1989), comb. n. Taxonomically important characters are illustrated for all genera and species and an identification key for Drilini from Cameroon is provided.
Uncovering the hidden biodiversity of natural history collections: Insights from DNA barcoding and morphological characters of the Neotropical genus Orthocomotis Dognin (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)
Authors: RAZOWSKI JÓZEF , PELZ VOLKER , TARCZ SEBASTIAN
Published: April 2017

We used a 227-bp fragment of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome oxidase I (DNA “barcode”) in conjunction with morphological data to study specimens of the Neotropical genus Orthocomotis Dognin, 1906, acquired from natural history collections. We examined over 20 species of Orthocomotis from 17 localities in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. The analysis identified 32 haplotypes among the 62 specimens and found no haplotypes shared among species. The molecular study revealed not only the usefulness of short COI sequences in discriminating among Orthocomotis species but also showed distinctness of four clusters which correspond to those based on morphological (genitalia) characters. Moreover, the molecular results suggest the occurrence of rapid speciation in Orthocomotis. We hypothesize that this may be linked to the great biodiversity of potential host plants in Neotropical ecosystems.
Endocan Levels and Coronary Collateral Circulation in Stable Angina Pectoris: A Pilot Study
Authors: Gok Murat , Kundi Harun , Kiziltunc Emrullah , Topcuoglu Canan , Ornek Ender
Published: April 2017

We investigated the relationship between endocan (a marker of systemic inflammation) and the development of coronary collateral circulation (CCC) as evaluated by coronary angiography in patients with chronic stable angina pectoris. A total of 90 patients (32 poor CCC and 58 good CCC) were included in this study. Endocan levels were determined using a commercially available sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit with high sensitivity and specificity for detection of human endocan. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, low endocan levels were independently associated with good CCC ( P < .001). Moreover, low high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels were also independently associated with good CCC ( P = .020). We found an optimal cutoff point for endocan of 1.7 ng/mL; it predicted the presence of good CCC with a sensitivity of 72.4% and specificity of 65.6% ( P < .001). The results of the present study suggest that measurement of endocan level may help clinicians to predict the development of CCC in patients with stable coronary artery disease.
Sustainability Struggles: Conflicting Cultures and Incompatible Logics
Authors: Kok Anne M. , de Bakker Frank G. A. , Groenewegen Peter
Published: April 2017

Introducing and implementing corporate sustainability poses many challenges to business organizations. In this longitudinal, inductive study, we focus on how such challenges are handled in a Dutch bank that is developing its sustainability policies. We examine why there is such a high degree of tension and conflict within the organization and identify how the development of these policies is affected by the interplay between subcultures and institutional logics. We show how different subcultures affect the enactment of logics by infusing the rational and mindful behavior coming from logics with (sub)cultural values, beliefs, and assumptions. In turn, conflicting logics amplify subcultural characteristics between groups by shaping different behavior and practices. Together, this leads to a magnification of subcultural differences while, at the same time, logics are increasingly being perceived as incompatible.
Social capital and health among Burundian refugees in the United States
Authors: Njororai Fletcher , Lee Sungkyu
Published: April 2017

This pilot study examined levels of social capital and their associations with the health status of Burundian refugees, who have recently increased in number in the United States. The findings revealed that none of the study sample had received formal education with one exception, and approximately 46 percent of the sample reported that they could not speak English at all. The study sample had more contact with other Burundian refugees than with other ethnic group members. Bonding and bridging social capital were explored, but neither was significantly associated with the refugees’ health status. Further research directions are discussed.
Dielectric properties of the polymer–matrix composites based on the system of Co-modified potassium titanate–polytetrafluorethylene
Authors: Gorshkov NV , Goffman VG , Vikulova MA , Burmistrov IN , Kovnev AV , Gorokhovsky AV
Published: April 2017

Powdered ceramic composites based on the amorphous potassium polytitanate modified in aqueous solutions of cobalt sulfate and calcined at 700℃ (PPT-Co) were used as the ceramic filler of the polytetrafluorethylene–matrix composite dielectrics characterized with high permittivity and low dielectric losses. The influence of the ceramic filler content on the electrical properties of the produced composites was investigated in the range of 1–50 wt%. The obtained results were compared with the data reported in literature for other ferroelectric composites based on polytetrafluorethylene and were analyzed taking into account some theoretical models earlier proposed for the two-component systems. An influence of the temperature on the frequency dependence of permittivity at 30–150℃ for the composites with different filler contents was investigated.
Preparation of hybrid polyurethane–silica composites by a lateral sol-gel process using tetraethyl orthosilicate
Authors: Chung Yong-Chan , Chung Kyung Hoon , Choi Jae Won , Chun Byoung Chul
Published: April 2017

Hybrid polyurethane–silica composites were prepared using a sol-gel reaction between tetraethyl orthosilicate and triethoxysilyl groups grafted onto polyurethane. The TS series contained the same polyurethane composition but the tetraethyl orthosilicate content varied. Soft segment Tm and Tg values were not affected by the tetraethyl orthosilicate content, while ΔH for soft segment melting and crystallization increased with the tetraethyl orthosilicate content. The tensile strength sharply increased from the cross-linking of the grafted silica at low tetraethyl orthosilicate concentrations but decreased with the increase of tetraethyl orthosilicate content because excess silica inhibited cross-linking. The shape recovery of the TS series improved during cyclic tests, and shape retention slightly decreased as the test cycles repeated. Low temperature flexibility moderately improved with the formation of grafted silica. Therefore, the grafted sol-gel silica formation demonstrated a tensile strength improvement and reproducible shape recovery.
Unlawful and Dangerous
Authors: Storey Tony
Published: April 2017

The crime of unlawful act manslaughter (otherwise known as constructive manslaughter) exists in English and Australian common law. It is also an offence contrary to the Canadian Criminal Code. In all three jurisdictions the offence shares the same essential elements, including the requirements that the accused commit an act which is both unlawful and dangerous. This article will explore the case law on unlawful act manslaughter in Australia, Canada and England, focusing on the elements of an unlawful act and dangerousness, in order to identify similarities and differences in the application of the law in the three jurisdictions. Where differences are found, consideration will be given to the question whether English law should be reformulated.
Gross Negligence Manslaughter on the Cusp
Authors: Lodge Anne
Published: April 2017

Despite playing a significant role in defining the boundaries of manslaughter, the ‘gross negligence’ concept is notoriously indeterminate. There is no comprehensible and consistent means of measuring whether conduct is sufficiently gross to warrant criminal conviction. The gross negligence condition also sets the culpability bar too low by permitting the criminal censure of undeserving defendants who did not advert to any risk of death associated with their conduct. Whilst acknowledging the difficulties of distinguishing advertence from inadvertence in cases that straddle the margins of legitimate criminal punishment and accidental death, it is argued that punishment should only be meted out to those who are consciously aware, or at least had a conscious inkling, of the risk of encroaching on the victim’s legally protected interests. A reformulated offence that regards the defendant’s conscious choices as the true determinant of culpability is theoretically plausible and would inject the clarity, certainty and consistency that is required of a law that dictates the parameters of a serious homicide offence.
Successful Implementation and Results of an HPV Vaccination Program in Geneva Canton, Switzerland
Authors: Jeannot Emilien , Petignat Patrick , Sudre Philippe
Published: April 2017

We describe a human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program implemented since 2007 in Geneva Canton, Switzerland, that used school services, a public hospital, and private physicians as vaccination providers. We assessed program performance with the evolution of immunization coverage during the first four years of program implementation. We measured vaccination coverage of the target population using individual records of vaccination status collected by service providers and transmitted to the Geneva Canton Medical Office. The target population was 20,541 adolescent girls aged 11–19 years as of September 1, 2008, who resided in the canton when the program began. As of June 30, 2012, HPV vaccination coverage was 72.6% and 74.8% in targeted cohorts for three and two doses, respectively. The global coverage for three doses increased by 27 percentage points from December 2009 to June 2012. Coverage for girls aged 16–18 years at the beginning of the program reached 80% or more four years into the program. High coverage by this HPV vaccination program in Geneva was likely related to free vaccination and easy access to the vaccine using a combination of delivery services, including school health services, a public hospital, and private physicians, covering most eligible adolescent girls.
Developmental Disabilities and Socioeconomic Outcomes in Young Adulthood
Authors: Queirós Fernanda C. , Wehby George L. , Halpern Carolyn T.
Published: April 2017

Objective.

We assessed the associations between developmental disabilities and indicators of socioeconomic outcomes (i.e., educational attainment, employment status, occupation type, subjective perception of socioeconomic status [SES], income, and wage rate) among young U.S. adults aged 24–33 years.

Methods.

We used data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health ( n=13,040), a nationally representative study of U.S. adolescents in grades 7–12 during the 1994–1995 school year. Young adult outcomes (i.e., educational attainment, employment status, income, occupation, and subjective SES) were measured in Wave IV (2008 for those aged 24–33 years). Multivariate methods controlled for sociodemographic characteristics and other relevant variables.

Results.

Nearly 12% of this sample presented with a physical or cognitive disability. Respondents with physical disabilities had lower educational attainment (odds ratio [OR] = 0.69, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.57, 0.85) and ranked themselves in lower positions on the subjective SES ladder (OR=0.71, 95% CI 0.57, 0.87) than those without a physical disability. Compared with individuals without disabilities, young adults with a cognitive disability also had lower educational attainment (OR=0.41, 95% CI 0.33, 0.52) and, when employed, were less likely to have a professional/managerial occupation (OR=0.50, 95% CI 0.39, 0.64). Young adults with disabilities also earned less annually (–$10,419.05, 95% CI –$4,954.79, –$5,883.37) and hourly (–$5.38, 95% CI –$7.64, –$3.12) than their non-disabled counterparts.

Conclusion.

This study highlights the importance of considering multiple developmental experiences that may contribute to learning and work achievements through the transition from adolescence to young adulthood.
Using Smartphone Apps in STD Interviews to Find Sexual Partners
Authors: Pennise Melissa , Inscho Roxana , Herpin Kate , Owens John , Bedard Brenden A. , Weimer Anita C. , Kennedy Byron S. , Younge Mary
Published: April 2017

Objectives.

Smartphone applications (apps) are increasingly used to facilitate casual sexual relationships, increasing the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). In STD investigations, traditional contact elicitation methods can be enhanced with smartphone technology during field interviews.

Methods.

In 2013, the Monroe County Department of Public Health conducted a large, multi-infection STD investigation among men who have sex with men (MSM) using both index case and cluster interviews. When patients indicated meeting sexual partners online, disease intervention specialists (DISs) had access to smartphone apps and were able to elicit partners through access to inboxes and profiles where traditional contact information was lacking. Social network mapping was used to display the extent of the investigation and the impact of access to smartphones on the investigation.

Results.

A total of 14 index patient interviews and two cluster interviews were conducted; 97 individuals were identified among 117 sexual dyads. On average, eight partners were elicited per interview (range: 1–31). The seven individuals who used apps to find partners had an average of three Internet partners (range: 1–5). Thirty-six individuals either had a new STD ( n=7) or were previously known to be HIV-positive ( n=29). Of the 117 sexual dyads, 21 (18%) originated either online ( n=8) or with a smartphone app ( n=13). Of those originating online or with a smartphone app, six (29%) partners were located using the smartphone and two (10%) were notified of their exposure via a website. Three of the new STD/HIV cases were among partners who met online.

Conclusion.

Smartphone technology used by DISs in the field improved contact elicitation and resulted in successful partner notification and case finding.
Comparative Mortality among People Diagnosed with HIV Infection or AIDS in the U.S., 2001–2010
Authors: Karch Debra L. , Hall H. Irene , Tang Tian , Hu Xiaohong , Mermin Jonathan
Published: April 2017

Objective.

The comparative mortality figure (CMF) is the expected number of deaths in the standard population compared with those observed. We assessed state-based CMFs for people with HIV infection to allow standardized assessment of mortality in all states.

Methods.

We used National HIV Surveillance System data to compute CMFs for people diagnosed with HIV and AIDS from 2001 to 2010 who met the CDC HIV case definition; were alive on December 31, 2009; and died during 2010.

Results.

In 33 U.S. states with name-based HIV reporting since 2001, the 2010 CMF for people with an HIV diagnosis was 2.8 compared with 4.5 for those with an AIDS diagnosis. CMFs for males were higher than for females (3.4 vs. 3.1) and black people had higher CMFs than white people for HIV (3.2 vs. 2.2) and AIDS (4.7 vs. 4.3). CMFs by state ranged from 0.9 to 4.2 for HIV and 1.9 to 9.7 for AIDS. In 50 states and the District of Columbia with AIDS reporting, CMFs for males and females were similar (4.5 and 4.6, respectively), CMFs for black people remained higher than for white people (5.0 and 3.9, respectively), and the range for states remained broad (1.2–9.4).

Conclusion.

State mortality figures varied based on population composition and disease stage at diagnosis, possibly indicating a need for state-specific testing, linkage to care, and viral suppression strategies to reduce mortality.
Food Insecurity and Health: Data from the Veterans Aging Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Emily A. , McGinnis Kathleen A. , Goulet Joseph , Bryant Kendall , Gibert Cynthia , Leaf David A. , Mattocks Kristin , Fiellin Lynn E. , Vogenthaler Nicholas , Justice Amy C. , Fiellin David A. ,   for the Veterans Aging Cohort Study Project Team
Published: April 2017

Objective.

Food insecurity may be a modifiable and independent risk factor for worse control of medical conditions, but it has not been explored among veterans. We determined the prevalence of, and factors independently associated with, food insecurity among veterans in the Veterans Aging Cohort Study (VACS).

Methods.

Using data from VACS from 2002–2008, we determined the prevalence of food insecurity among veterans who have accessed health care in the Veterans Health Administration (VA) as defined by “concern about having enough food for you or your family in the past month.” We used multivariable logistic regression to determine factors independently associated with food insecurity and tests of trend to measure the association between food insecurity and control of hypertension, diabetes, HIV, and depression.

Results.

Of the 6,709 veterans enrolled in VACS, 1,624 (24%) reported being food insecure. Food insecurity was independently associated with being African American, earning <$25,000/year, recent homelessness, marijuana use, and depression. Being food insecure was also associated with worse control of hypertension, diabetes, HIV, and depression ( p<0.001).

Conclusion.

Food insecurity is prevalent and associated with worse control of medical conditions among veterans who have accessed care in the VA.
The Descriptive Epidemiology of Yersiniosis: A Multistate Study, 2005–2011
Authors: Chakraborty Apurba , Komatsu Kenneth , Roberts Matthew , Collins Jim , Beggs Jennifer , Turabelidze George , Safranek Tom , Maillard Jean-Marie , Bell Linda J. , Young David , Marsden-Haug Nicola , Klos Rachel F. , Dworkin Mark S.
Published: April 2017

Objectives.

Yersiniosis, a foodborne infection of zoonotic origin caused by the bacteria Yersinia enterocolitica and Yersinia pseudotuberculosis, is a reportable disease in 38 states. Both sporadic and foodborne outbreaks of yersiniosis have been reported in the U.S., with annual occurrence of an estimated 98,000 episodes of illness, 533 hospitalizations, and 29 deaths. We analyzed surveillance data from nine non-FoodNet-participating U.S. states during the period 2005–2011 to describe the epidemiology of this disease.

Methods.

As part of a passive surveillance system, laboratory-confirmed cases of yersiniosis were reported to state health departments in Arizona, Illinois, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, South Carolina, Washington, and Wisconsin. We calculated overall, age-, and race-specific annual incidence rates per 100,000 population using 2010 Census data as the denominator. We used Poisson regression to examine seasonal variation and annual incidence trends by race, age group, and overall.

Results.

The average annual incidence of yersiniosis was 0.16 cases per 100,000 population during 2005–2011. We observed a statistically significant decreasing annual trend of yersiniosis incidence among African Americans <5 years of age ( p<0.01), whereas white people aged 19–64 years ( p=0.08) and Hispanic people ( p=0.05) had an overall increasing annual incidence of yersiniosis. We observed higher incidence during October–December ( p<0.01) and January–March ( p=0.03) quarters among African Americans, whereas white people had a higher incidence during April–June ( p=0.05).

Conclusion.

This multistate analysis revealed differences in the epidemiology of yersiniosis by race/ethnicity that may be useful for future research and prevention efforts. While this study was consistent with the FoodNet report in recognizing the high and declining incidence among African American children and winter seasonality among African Americans, our study also identified April–June seasonality among the white population.
The Youth Nonfatal Violent Injury Review Panel: An Innovative Model to Inform Policy and Systems Change
Authors: Purtle Jonathan , Rich Linda J. , Rich John A. , Cooper Jazzmin , Harris Erica J. , Corbin Theodore J.
Published: April 2017

Among young people in the United States, nonfatal violent injuries outnumber fatal violent injuries by 171 to 1. The Child Fatality Review Team (CFRT) is a well-established model for informing injury prevention planning. The CFRT's restricted focus on fatal injuries, however, limits its ability to identify opportunities to prevent violent reinjury and address issues unique to nonfatal violent injuries. We adapted the CFRT model to develop and implement a Youth Nonfatal Violent Injury Review Panel. We convened representatives from 23 agencies (e.g., police, housing, and education) quarterly to share administrative information and confidentially discuss cases of nonfatal violent injury. In this article, we describe the panel model and present preliminary data on participants' perceptions of the process. Although outcomes research is needed to evaluate its impacts, the Youth Nonfatal Violent Injury Review Panel offers an innovative, promising, and replicable model for interagency collaboration to prevent youth violence and its effects.
Household Debt and Relation to Intimate Partner Violence and Husbands' Attitudes toward Gender Norms: A Study among Young Married Couples in Rural Maharashtra, India
Authors: Reed Elizabeth , Donta Balaiah , Dasgupta Anindita , Ghule Mohan , Battala Madhusudana , Nair Saritha , Silverman Jay G. , Jadhav Arun , Palaye Prajakta , Saggurti Niranjan , Raj Anita
Published: April 2017

Objective.

Evidence has linked economic hardship with increased intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetration among males. However, less is known about how economic debt or gender norms related to men's roles in relationships or the household, which often underlie IPV perpetration, intersect in or may explain these associations. We assessed the intersection of economic debt, attitudes toward gender norms, and IPV perpetration among married men in India.

Methods.

Data were from the evaluation of a family planning intervention among young married couples ( n=1,081) in rural Maharashtra, India. Crude and adjusted logistic regression models for dichotomous outcome variables and linear regression models for continuous outcomes were used to examine debt in relation to husbands' attitudes toward gender-based norms (i.e., beliefs supporting IPV and beliefs regarding male dominance in relationships and the household), as well as sexual and physical IPV perpetration.

Results.

Twenty percent of husbands reported debt. In adjusted linear regression models, debt was associated with husbands' attitudes supportive of IPV (β=0.015, p=0.004) and norms supporting male dominance in relationships and the household (β=0.006, p=0.003). In logistic regression models adjusted for relevant demographics, debt was associated with perpetration of physical IPV (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1, 1.9) and sexual IPV (AOR=1.6, 95% CI 1.1, 2.1) from husbands. These findings related to debt and relation to IPV were slightly attenuated when further adjusted for men's attitudes toward gender norms.

Conclusion.

Findings suggest the need for combined gender equity and economic promotion interventions to address high levels of debt and related IPV reported among married couples in rural India.
Chronic Liver Disease-Associated Hospitalizations among Adults with Diabetes, National Inpatient Sample, 2001–2012
Authors: Byrd Kathy K. , Mehal Jason M. , Schillie Sarah F. , Holman Robert C. , Haberling Dana , Murphy Trudy
Published: April 2017

Objective.

Many people with diabetes have a variety of diabetes-related complications. Among the variety of conditions associated with diabetes, however, liver diseases are less well recognized. As such, we aimed to describe chronic liver disease (CLD)-associated hospitalization rates among U.S. adults with diabetes from 2001–2012.

Methods.

We used a nationally representative database of hospitalizations, the National Inpatient Sample, to determine CLD-associated hospitalization rates among U.S. adults aged ≥18 years with and without diabetes, from 2001–2012. Hospitalizations listing an International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) code for CLD on the discharge record were selected for analysis and were further classified by diabetes status based on concurrent presence of a diabetes ICD-9-CM code. We calculated average annual age-adjusted hospitalization rates and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and conducted a test for trend.

Results.

For 2001–2012, the total age-adjusted CLD-associated hospitalization rate among adults with diabetes (1,680.9 per 100,000 population; 95% CI 1,577.2, 1,784.6) was approximately four times the rate of adults without diabetes (424.2 per 100,000 population; 95% CI 413.4, 435.1). Total age-adjusted hospitalization rates of adults with and without diabetes increased 59% and 48%, respectively, from 2001–2002 to 2011–2012 ( p<0.001). Hepatitis C- and chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis-associated hospitalizations comprised the largest proportion of total CLD-associated hospitalizations among adults with and without diabetes.

Conclusion.

Providers should be aware of the potential existence of CLD among adults with diabetes and counsel patients on preventive methods to avoid progressive liver damage.
Sociodemographic and Clinical Risk Factors Associated With Tuberculosis Mortality in the United States, 2009-2013
Authors: Hannah Haylea A. , Miramontes Roque , Gandhi Neel R.
Published: April 2017

Objectives:

The objectives of our study were (1) to determine risk factors associated with tuberculosis (TB)–specific and non–TB-specific mortality among patients with TB and (2) to examine whether risk factors for TB-specific mortality differed from those for non–TB-specific mortality.

Methods:

We obtained data from the National Tuberculosis Surveillance System and included all patients who had TB between 2009 and 2013 in the United States and its territories. We used multinomial logistic regression analysis to determine the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of each risk factor for TB-specific and non–TB-specific mortality.

Results:

Of 52 175 eligible patients with TB, 1404 died from TB, and 2413 died from other causes. Some of the risk factors associated with the highest odds of TB-specific mortality were multidrug-resistant TB diagnosis (aOR = 3.42; 95% CI, 1.95-5.99), end-stage renal disease (aOR = 3.02; 95% CI, 2.23-4.08), human immunodeficiency virus infection (aOR = 2.63; 95% CI, 2.02-3.42), age 45-64 years (aOR = 2.57; 95% CI, 2.01-3.30) or age ≥65 years (aOR = 5.76; 95% CI, 4.37-7.61), and immunosuppression (aOR = 2.20; 95% CI, 1.71-2.83). All of these risk factors except multidrug-resistant TB were also associated with increased odds of non–TB-specific mortality.

Conclusion:

TB patients with certain risk factors have an elevated risk of TB-specific mortality and should be monitored before, during, and after treatment. Identifying the predictors of TB-specific mortality may help public health authorities determine which subpopulations to target and where to allocate resources.
Tax Avoidance and Evasion: Cigarette Purchases From Indian Reservations Among US Adult Smokers, 2010-2011
Authors: Wang Xu , Xu Xin , Tynan Michael A. , Gerzoff Robert B. , Caraballo Ralph S. , Promoff Gabbi R.
Published: April 2017

Excise taxes are the primary public health strategy used to increase the price of cigarettes in the United States. Rather than quitting or reducing consumption of cigarettes, some price-sensitive smokers may avoid state and local excise taxes by purchasing cigarettes from Indian reservations. The objectives of this study were to (1) provide the most recent state-specific prevalence of purchases made on Indian reservations by non–American Indians/Alaska Natives (non-AI/ANs) and (2) assess the impact of these purchases on state tax revenues. We used data from a large national and state-representative survey, the 2010-2011 Tobacco Use Supplement to the Current Population Survey, which collects self-reported measures on cigarette use and purchases. Nationwide, 3.8% of non-AI/AN smokers reported purchasing cigarettes from Indian reservations. However, in Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, and Washington State, about 15% to 30% of smokers reported making such purchases, resulting in annual tax revenue losses ranging from $3.5 million (Washington State) to $292 million (New York) during 2010-2011. Strategies to reduce the sale of non- or lower-taxed cigarettes to non-AI/ANs on Indian reservations have the potential to decrease smoking prevalence and recoup lost revenue from purchases made on reservations.
‘Unwanted’ is My Name: Culture, Patriarchy and Gender Bias Surrounding the Nakusa Girls of Maharashtra
Authors: Shijith V.P. , Sekher T.V.
Published: April 2017

This study tries to explore the shocking ‘Nakusa’ phenomenon in the Satara district of Maharashtra by analysing the factors responsible for discrimination against girl children. Many parents have named their daughters as ‘Nakusa/Nakoshi’ means ‘unwanted’ in local Marathi language, in the hope and under the superstition that the next child will be a boy. A survey of ‘Nakusa’ households was carried out in 2013 in the selected villages besides case studies of parents and their ‘unwanted’ daughters. Most ‘Nakusas’ were either third or fourth daughter of their parents. ‘Nakusa’ girls are experiencing discrimination and socio-psychological problems, and are the silent victims of the most visible and crudest form of gender bias still persisting. Women called ‘Nakusa’, who have suffered on account of their name all through their lives, will they ever want to have a daughter?
Book Review: Jean Drèze (ed.), Social Policy
Authors: Govind Madhav
Published: April 2017

Jean Drèze (ed.), Social Policy. Hyderabad: Orient Blackswan, 2016, xiv+478 pp., price not listed (paperback), ISBN 978-81-250-6284-4.
Book Review: Tapti Guha-Thakurta: In the Name of the Goddess: The Durga Pujas of Contemporary Kolkata
Authors: Bhattacharya Niloshree
Published: April 2017

Tapti Guha-Thakurta: In the Name of the Goddess: The Durga Pujas of Contemporary Kolkata. New Delhi: Primus Books, 2015, xiv + 390 pp., ₹5500 (hardback), ISBN 978-93-84082-46-8.
Population, Ethnicity and Locality: A Study of Dehzado Records of the 1881 Census of Baroda State
Authors: Shah A.M. , Lobo Lancy , Kumar Shashikant
Published: April 2017

At the Census of India, 1881, the former princely state of Baroda published data for every village and town, called Dehzado. After presenting the general demography of Baroda state, this article presents an analysis of data on caste, tribe and religion. It provides classification of villages and towns by the number of castes and tribes found in them, and discusses the issues posed by them, especially the issue of single-caste villages. This article describes the horizontal spread of various castes, tribes and religious minorities and points out its implications. In the end, it discusses the problem of urbanisation, classifying the towns by ethnic groups found in them.
Am I a Backpacker? Factors Indicating the Social Identity of Chinese Backpackers
Authors: Zhang Jingru , Morrison Alastair M. , Tucker Hazel , Wu Bihu
Published: April 2017

The question of what constitutes backpacker identity has been one of the central topics of backpacking tourism research. With the economic boom in China, the last two decades witnessed the proliferation of Chinese backpackers. By adopting quantitative methods, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of what makes one a “backpacker” in China. Comparing results from t-tests, binomial logistic regression, and multiple linear regression, it is found that Chinese backpackers’ social identities are mostly associated with external-oriented motivation, work alienation, and detachment from home centers. Behavioral characteristics, which have up until now been widely used to define backpackers, have very limited relationship to their identities in China. This finding calls for future research to rethink what is a backpacker. The research makes an important contribution to the understanding of this growing market and its particular identity factors.
Nothing Changes, Really: Why Women Who Break Through the Glass Ceiling End Up Reinforcing It
Authors: Faniko Klea , Ellemers Naomi , Derks Belle , Lorenzi-Cioldi Fabio
Published: April 2017

Two correlational studies conducted in Switzerland ( N = 222) and Albania ( N = 156) explained the opposition of female managers to gender quotas by examining the origins and consequences of the “Queen Bee (QB)-phenomenon,” whereby women who have been successful in male-dominated organizations do not support the advancement of junior women. Results disconfirm previous accounts of the QB-phenomenon as indicating competitiveness among women. Instead, the tendency of women managers to consider themselves as different from other women, and their opposition to gender quotas, emerged when junior women were addressed but not when they considered their direct competitors, other women managers. Personal sacrifices women managers reported having made for career success predicted self-distancing from junior women and opposition to gender quotas targeting these women. We provide a more nuanced picture of what the QB-response is really about, explaining why women managers oppose quotas for junior women, while supporting quotas for women in the same rank.
Somali Piracy and the Human Rights of Seafarers
Authors: Galani Sofia
Published: April 2017

Somali piracy has attracted the world's attention over the last decade and whilst Somali piracy abates, the debate on its various aspects remains lively. This paper aims to shed light on one particular aspect of Somali piracy that remains unexplored – the violations of the human rights of seafarers, and especially those taken hostage. Despite the suffering of seafarers at the hands of pirates, their protection seems to fall beyond the human rights framework due to the non-State status of pirates. The lack of a human rights-oriented approach is reflected by significant counter-piracy responses, including the United Nations Security Council Resolutions, criminal responses and the conduct of naval operations that are reviewed here. Therefore, it is suggested that the traditional negative obligations of States and the evolution of the positive human rights obligations of States can offer a legal avenue for the better protection of the human rights of seafarers.
Proliferative and Neoplastic Lesions in the Rodent Nasal Cavity
Authors: Brown H. Roger , Monticello Thomas M. , Maronpot Robert R. , Randall Holly W. , Hotchkiss John R. , Morgan Kevin T.
Published: April 2017

Proliferative lesions in the rodent nasal cavity are reviewed; attempt was made to compare species affected, sex differences, strain differences, route of administration and tumor types occurring both spontaneously and after induction by different chemicals. This review is not meant to be all inclusive but to be representative of observed trends. Our general conclusions in this paper are that: 1) spontaneous nasal tumors in rodents are very rare; 2) spontaneous nasal tumors in rats are most often squamous cell tumors, whereas hemangiomas or respiratory adenomas predominate in mice and squamous cell tumors are rare; 3) rats are usually more susceptible to the induction of epithelial tumors of the nasal cavity than mice; 4) chemically-induced hemangiomas and hemangiosarcomas of the nasal cavity have only been reported in mice; 5) tumors of the olfactory epithelium are almost uniformly malignant and invasive, while nonsquamous tumors of the respiratory epithelium are typically less invasive; 6) chemically-induced tumors of the olfactory region, either mesenchymal or epithelial, do not always require an inhalation route of exposure but may occur by systemic targeting of this region; and 7) chemicals inducing tumors in the olfactory region often produce a variety of tumor morphologies in this location as well as squamous and polypoid tumors of the transitional region. More work will be needed to illucidate the mechanisms of nasal carcinogenesis and to further refine the current tumor classification system.
Inhalation Exposure Technology, Dosimetry, and Regulatory Issues
Authors: Dorato Michael A. , Wolff Ronald K.
Published: April 2017

Inhalation toxicology technology has provided the scientific community with important advances in studies of inhaled toxicants. These advances include new and more efficient exposure systems (e.g., flow-past nose-only exposure systems), and improved approaches to inhalation chamber environmental control (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality). Practical problems and approaches to testing and operating inhalation exposure systems and the advantages and disadvantages of the major inhalation exposure types (e.g., whole-body, nose-only) are discussed. Important aspects of study design, such as high level particulate exposures resulting in large lung burdens (e.g., ≥2 mg/g of lung), slowed pulmonary clearance rates, and nonspecific toxicity are considered, along with practical issues of comparative dosimetry. Regulatory guidelines have continued to present challenges in designing and conducting acute, subchronic, and chronic inhalation studies. The important regulatory issue of performing acute inhalation toxicity studies at high aerosol concentrations and “respirable” particle size distribution is discussed.