bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trends in Hospitalizations with Antibiotic-Resistant Infections: U.S., 1997–2006
Authors: Mainous Arch G. , Diaz Vanessa A. , Matheson Eric M. , Gregorie Seth H. , Hueston William J.
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

Antibiotic resistance is a significant global problem, but the trends in prevalence and impact of antibiotic resistance in hospitalizations in the United States are unclear. We evaluated the trends in hospitalizations associated with antibiotic-resistant infections in U.S. hospitals from 1997 to 2006.

Methods.

We analyzed the National Hospital Discharge Survey (NHDS) during 1997–2006 (unweighted n=3.3 million hospitalizations; weighted n=370.3 million hospitalizations) and examined trends in prevalence of hospitalizations with antibiotic-resistant infections, length of stay, and discharge status.

Results.

The number of infection-related hospitalizations with antibiotic resistance increased 359% during the 10-year period, from 37,005 in 1997 to 169,985 in 2006. The steepest rise was seen among individuals <18 years of age. The mean age of individuals with infection-related hospitalizations that had antibiotic-resistant infections decreased substantially, from 65.7 years (standard error [SE] = 2.01) in 1997 to 44.2 years (SE = 1.47) in 2006. As the proportion of patients with antibiotic-resistant infections who did not have insurance increased, the length of stay for those hospitalizations had a corresponding decrease (r=0.91, p<0.01).

Conclusions.

Antibiotic-resistant infections are becoming increasingly commonplace in hospitalizations in the U.S., with a steady upward trend between 1997 and 2006. Antibiotic-resistant infections are increasingly being seen in younger patients and those without health insurance.
Health Selection among Migrants from Mexico to the U.S.: Childhood Predictors of Adult Physical and Mental Health
Authors: Breslau Joshua , Borges Guilherme , Tancredi Daniel J. , Saito Naomi , Anderson Heather , Kravitz Richard , Hinton Ladson , Aguilar-Gaxiola Sergio , Mora Maria-Elena Medina
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

We tested whether positive selection on childhood predictors of adult mental and physical health contributed to health advantages of Mexican-born immigrants to the United States relative to U.S.-born Mexican Americans.

Methods.

We combined data from surveys conducted during 2000–2003 in Mexico and the U.S. with the same structured interview. We examined retrospective reports of childhood (i.e., <16 years of age) predictors of adult health—education, height, childhood physical illness, childhood mental health, early substance use, and childhood adversities—as predictors of migration from Mexico to the U.S. at ≥16 years of age. We estimated overall selection by comparing migrants to all non-migrants. We also examined selection at the family (members of families of migrants vs. members of families without a migrant) and individual (migrants vs. non-migrants within families of migrants) levels.

Results.

Distinguishing between family and individual selection revealed evidence of positive health selection that is obscured in the overall selection model. In particular, respondents in families with migrants were more likely to have ≥12 years of education (odds ratio [OR] = 1.60) and be in the tallest height quartile (OR=1.72) than respondents in families without migrants. At both the family and individual levels, migrants are disadvantaged on mental health profiles, including a higher prevalence of conduct problems, phobic fears, and early substance use.

Conclusions.

Positive health selection may contribute to physical health advantages among Mexican immigrants in the U.S. relative to their U.S.-born descendants. Mental health advantages likely reflect a lower prevalence of psychiatric disorders in Mexico, rather than protective factors that distinguish migrants.
Prospectively Assessed Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Associated Physical Activity
Authors: LeardMann Cynthia A. , Kelton Molly L. , Smith Besa , Littman Alyson J. , Boyko Edward J. , Wells Timothy S. , Smith Tyler C. ,   For the Millennium Cohort Study Team
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

We examined the association of physical activity with prospectively assessed posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in a military cohort.

Methods.

Using baseline and follow-up questionnaire data from a large prospective study of U.S. service members, we applied multivariable logistic regression to examine the adjusted odds of new-onset and persistent PTSD symptoms associated with light/moderate physical activity, vigorous physical activity, and strength training at follow-up.

Results.

Of the 38,883 participants, 89.4% reported engaging in at least 30 minutes of physical activity per week. At follow-up, those who reported proportionately less physical activity were more likely to screen positive for PTSD. Vigorous physical activity had the most consistent relationship with PTSD. Those who reported at least 20 minutes of vigorous physical activity twice weekly had significantly decreased odds for new-onset (odds ratio [OR] = 0.58, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.49, 0.70) and persistent (OR=0.59, 95% CI 0.42, 0.83) PTSD symptoms.

Conclusions.

Engagement in physical activity, especially vigorous activity, is significantly associated with decreased odds of PTSD symptoms among U.S. service members. While further longitudinal research is necessary, a physical activity component may be valuable to PTSD treatment and prevention programs.
Policy Implications of First-Dollar Coverage: A Qualitative Examination from the Payer Perspective
Authors: Shortridge Emily F. , Moore Jonathan R. , Whitmore Heidi , O'Grady Michael J. , Shen Angela K.
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

Immunization against potentially life-threatening illnesses for children and adults has proved to be one of the great public health successes of the 20th century and is extremely cost-effective. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act includes a number of provisions to increase coverage and access to immunizations for the consumer, including a provision for health plans to cover all Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices-recommended vaccines at first dollar, or without cost sharing. In this study, we examined payers' perspectives on first-dollar coverage of vaccines and strategies to improve vaccination rates.

Methods.

This was a qualitative study, using a literature review and semistructured expert interviews with payers.

Results.

Four key themes emerged, including (7) the cost implications of the first-dollar change; (2) the importance of examining barriers to children, adolescents, and adults separately to focus interventions more strategically; (3) the importance of provider knowledge and education in increasing immunization; and (4) the effect of first-dollar coverage on those who decline vaccination for personal reasons.

Conclusions.

We determined that, while reducing financial barriers through first-dollar coverage is an important first step to increasing immunization rates, there are structural and cultural barriers that also will require collaborative, strategic work among all vaccine stakeholders.
Hurricane Katrina: Addictive Behavior Trends and Predictors
Authors: Beaudoin Christopher E.
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

Post-disaster trends in alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking, as well as their predictors, were identified.

Methods.

Data from cross-sectional and panel surveys of African American adults in New Orleans, Louisiana, were used from before (2004: n=1,867; 2005: n=879) and after (2006a: n=500; 2006b: n=500) Hurricane Katrina.

Results.

Alcohol consumption increased significantly from pre- to post-Hurricane Katrina, while cigarette smoking remained constant. In 2006, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was associated with cigarette smoking, whereas “news attention” and “provided social support” were inversely associated with cigarette smoking. “News attention” was also inversely associated with cigarette smoking frequency, while “neighborliness” was associated with alcohol consumption. In addition, the effects of PTSD on alcohol consumption were moderated by “neighborliness.”

Conclusions.

In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, there were complex predictive processes of addictive behaviors involving PTSD, news information, and social capital-related measures.
Describing Local Boards of Health: Insights from the 2008 National Association of Local Boards of Health Survey
Authors: Patton Dana , Moon Charles E. , Jones Jeff
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

We examined findings from the 2008 National Association of Local Boards of Health Survey to provide information about this understudied entity to the public health community.

Methods.

The survey instrument consisted of 196 items covering five parts: (7) demographics; (2) composition and organizational structure; (3) roles, responsibilities, and authorities; (4) telecommunications infrastructure; and (5) concerns and needs. The survey was sent to chairs of local boards of health (LBHs) in 2008 (n=3,276). After six months of follow-ups and reminders, and a month of data cleaning and screening, the final sample consisted of 870 respondents, for a return rate of 27%.

Results.

LBHs tend to represent smaller communities and are primarily appointed. Governing and policy-making boards are more prevalent than advisory boards. Most boards do not have official websites or e-mail addresses of board members available to the public; however, most report the capability to receive training via webcasts. Boards express concerns and needs in a variety of areas, particularly public health law, strategic planning, and accreditation.

Conclusions.

Little is known about the more than 3,000 LBHs across the United States that are often charged with making and enforcing public health law. This article is a first step toward providing the public health community with information about LBHs based on survey data.
Pediatricians' Experience with and Response to Parental Vaccine Safety Concerns and Vaccine Refusals: A Survey of Connecticut Pediatricians
Authors: Leib Susan , Liberatos Penny , Edwards Karen
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

Physicians are seeing increasing numbers of parents who question the safety of vaccines or refuse to vaccinate their children. This study examined how frequently pediatricians in one New England state encounter parental vaccine safety concerns and vaccine refusals, how often physicians dismiss families from their practices for vaccine refusal, and how parental vaccine refusal impacts pediatricians personally.

Methods.

The study consisted of a quantitative survey of primary care pediatricians in one New England state; 133 pediatricians completed the questionnaire. Variables examined included number of parental vaccine concerns and refusals seen by each physician, physicians' response to parental vaccine concerns and refusals, the personal impact of parental vaccine safety refusals on pediatricians, and respondent estimates of socioeconomic characteristics of families seen in their practices.

Results.

The majority of responding pediatricians reported an increase in parental vaccine safety concerns and refusals. More than 30% of responding pediatricians have dismissed families because of their refusal to immunize. Suburban physicians caring for wealthier, better educated families experience more vaccine concerns and/or refusals and are more likely to dismiss families for vaccine refusal. Vaccine refusals have a negative personal impact on one-third of physician respondents.

Conclusions.

Pediatricians in Connecticut are reporting increased levels of parental vaccine safety concerns and refusals. Physicians who report more parental vaccine safety concerns and refusals and who care for wealthier, better educated families are more likely to dismiss families who refuse vaccines and to be negatively affected by parental vaccine refusals, which may adversely impact childhood vaccination rates.
How Parents' Negative Experiences at Immunization Visits Affect Child Immunization Status in a Community in New York City
Authors: Stockwell Melissa S. , Irigoyen Matilde , Martinez Raquel Andres , Findley Sally
Published: January 2017

Objective.

Little is known about how families' experiences with immunization visits within the medical home may affect children's immunization status. We assessed the association between families' negative immunization experiences within the medical home and underimmunization.

Methods.

We surveyed parents ( n=392) of children aged 2–36 months about immunization experiences at community health centers, hospital-based clinics, private practices, and community-based organizations in New York City. We used Chi-square tests and odds ratios (ORs) to assess the relationship between medical home elements and parental immunization experience ratings. We used multivariable analysis to determine the association between negative experiences during immunization visits and underimmunization, controlling for insurance, maternal education, and receipt of benefits from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children.

Results.

The majority of children were of Latino race/ethnicity and had Medicaid and a medical home. One-sixth (16.9%) of families reported a previous negative immunization experience, primarily related to the child's reaction, waiting time, and attitudes of medical and office staff. Parents' negative immunization experiences were associated with the absence of four components of the medical home: continuity of care, family-centered care, compassionate care, and comprehensive care. In addition, children in families who reported a negative experience were more likely to have been underimmunized (adjusted OR=2.00; 95% confidence interval 1.12, 3.58).

Conclusions.

In a community in New York City, underimmunization of young children was associated with negative immunization experiences. Strategies to improve family experiences with immunization visits within the medical home (particularly around support for the family), medical and ancillary staff attitudes, and reduced waiting time may lead to improved immunization delivery.
Improving Immunization Rates at 18 Months of Age: Implications for Individual Practices
Authors: McElligott James T. , Roberts James R. , O'Brien Elizabeth S. , Freeland Katherine D. , Kolasa Maureen S. , Stevenson John , Darden Paul M.
Published: January 2017

Objective.

We sought to model the effect that a targeted immunization visit at 18 months of age could have on immunization rates of preschool-aged children in a sample of pediatric practices.

Methods.

We conducted retrospective chart reviews in six practices of all active patients aged 18–30 months. Up-to-date (UTD) status was defined as receipt of four diphtheria-tetanus-acellular pertussis, three polio, one measles-mumps-rubella, three hepatitis B, and one varicella vaccines. Haemophilus influenza tybe b vaccine was not included due to a shortage in vaccine supply during the time of the study. Practice vaccination rates were determined at 17 months, 18 months, and the age at assessment. Of those not UTD at 17 months, the percentage of children who could be brought UTD with one visit was calculated for each practice. This calculated rate was compared with the measured rate at 18 months of age and at the age of assessment.

Results.

At each practice, we reviewed 183–616 charts (median = 382). Observed UTD immunization rates at 17 months ranged from 26% to 64% (median = 38%) and increased 3 to 27 percentage points (median = 6) from age 17 months to 18 months and 9 to 39 percentage points (median = 17) from age 17 months to the age at assessment. A simulated vaccination visit at 18 months of age could improve the UTD rates from 27 to 61 percentage points (median = 44).

Conclusion.

Practice-based interventions aimed at encouraging an 18-month well-child visit that emphasizes delivery of vaccines have the potential to substantially increase timely vaccination rates among individual practices.
Extra-Immunization as a Clinical Indicator for Fragmentation of Care
Authors: Darden Paul M. , Gustafson Kristina K. , Nietert Paul J. , Jacobson Robert M.
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

We assessed whether extra-immunization can serve as a clinical indicator for fragmentation of care.

Methods.

Using public-use files of the 1999–2003 National Immunization Survey, we classified children 19–35 months of age by their vaccination providers for the degree of fragmentation of care as ordered from lowest with one vaccine provider, to increasing fragmentation with multiple providers in one facility type, to multiple providers in more than one facility type. Extra-immunization was defined conservatively based on the year-specific recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) for immunizations due before 18 months of age. Of note, 1999–2003 transitioned from oral to inactivated poliovirus vaccines.

Results.

The rate for extra-immunization was 9.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 9.2, 9.7). Of single vaccines, the rate for polio vaccine was highest (5.7%, 95% CI 5.5, 6.0). Extra-immunization was lowest for the 69% of children with only one vaccination provider (6.4%, 95% CI 6.1, 6.7), was higher in children who had more than one vaccination provider with one vaccination facility type (13.9%, 95% CI 13.2, 14.6), and highest with more than one facility type (24.1%, 95% CI 22.5, 25.6). Logistic regression (including race/ethnicity, language, provider type, survey year, and a parent-held immunization record) confirmed that multiple providers (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.30), multiple facility types (AOR=4.67), Spanish language (AOR=1.29), and race/ethnicity (black AOR=1.16, Hispanic AOR=1.31) were each associated with extra-immunization. Excluding poliovirus vaccine from the analysis, AORs for multiple providers and multiple facility types increased to 3.64 and 8.95, respectively.

Conclusions.

Extra-immunization is associated with receiving immunizations from multiple providers and multiple facility types.
Validity of Parent-Reported Vaccination Status for Adolescents Aged 13–17 Years: National Immunization Survey-Teen, 2008
Authors: Dorell Christina G. , Jain Nidhi , Yankey David
Published: January 2017

Objective.

The validity of parent-reported adolescent vaccination histories has not been assessed. This study evaluated the validity of parent-reported adolescent vaccination histories by a combination of immunization card and recall, and by recall only, compared with medical provider records.

Methods.

We analyzed data from the 2008 National Immunization Survey-Teen. Parents of adolescents aged 13–17 years reported their child's vaccination history either by immunization card and recall ( n=3,661) or by recall only ( n=12,822) for the hepatitis B (Hep B), measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), varicella (VAR), tetanus-diphtheria/tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Td/Tdap), meningococcal conjugate (MCV4), and quadrivalent human papillomavirus (HPV4) (for girls only) vaccines. We validated parental report with medical records.

Results.

Among the immunization card/recall group, vaccines with >20% false-positive reports included MMR (32.3%) and Td/Tdap (36.9%); vaccines with >20% false-negative reports included VAR (35.2%), MCV4 (36.0%), and Tdap (41.9%). Net bias ranged from −25.0 to −0.1 percentage points. Kappa values ranged from 0.22 to 0.92. Among the recall-only group, vaccines with >20% false-positive reports included Hep B (33.9%), MMR (61.4%), VAR (26.2%), and Td/Tdap (60.6%); vaccines with >20% false-negative reports included Hep B (58.9%), MMR (33.7%), VAR (51.6%), Td/Tdap (25.5%), Tdap (50.3%) MCV4 (63.0%), and HPV4 (20.5%). Net bias ranged from −46.0 to 0.5 percentage points. Kappa values ranged from 0.03 to 0.76.

Conclusions.

Validity of parent-reported vaccination histories varies by type of report and vaccine. For recently recommended vaccines, false-negative rates were substantial and higher than false-positive rates, resulting in net underreporting of vaccination rates by both the immunization card/recall and recall-only groups. Provider validation of parent-reported vaccinations is needed for valid surveillance of adolescent vaccination coverage.
Using the North Dakota Immunization Information System to Determine Adolescent Vaccination Rates and Uptake
Authors: LoMurray Keith , Sander Molly
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

We described the uptake and coverage rates of meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4); tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis vaccine (Tdap); and quadrivalent human papillomavirus vaccine (HPV4) in North Dakota using the North Dakota Immunization Information System (NDIIS).

Methods.

We analyzed all available MCV4, Tdap, and HPV4 doses given after vaccine licensure and through December 31, 2009, obtained from the NDIIS to identify trends and patterns in vaccine administration. We analyzed all data by administration date, age group, and health-care provider type. We also calculated missed opportunities to complete all recommended vaccines among vaccinated adolescents.

Results.

For adolescents aged 13–17 years, 69.2% had ≥1 dose of Tdap and 62.8% had ≥1 dose of MCV4. Of females aged 13–17 years, 42.8% initiated the HPV4 vaccination series and 24.9% received ≥3 HPV4 doses. Only 48.7% of males aged 13–17 years received both Tdap and MCV4 at the same visit, and only 11.5% of females aged 13–17 years received Tdap, MCV4, and HPV4 doses at the first visit.

Conclusions.

The NDIIS is useful in tracking adolescent vaccine uptake. The immunization rates for all three routinely recommended adolescent vaccines are rising in North Dakota, although at different paces. Providers should be educated about the importance of not missing opportunities to vaccinate, and school-based vaccination clinics should be used to reach adolescents who are less likely to have preventive care visits.
Prevalence of HIV Testing Provision at Community Organizations Serving Young People in a Mid-Atlantic City, 2013-2014
Authors: Marcell Arik V. , Okano Lauren , Pilgrim Nanlesta A. , Jennings Jacky M. , Page Kathleen R. , Sanders Renata , Loosier Penny S. , Dittus Patricia J.
Published: January 2017

Objectives:

Little is known about the prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing at community organizations or the organizational characteristics associated with testing. The objective of this study was to describe (1) the prevalence of HIV testing at community organizations serving young people in a mid-Atlantic urban city and (2) the characteristics associated with organizations that provide such testing.

Methods:

We conducted telephone or in-person surveys between February 2013 and March 2014 with 51 directors and administrators of community organizations serving young people. We asked whether the organization provided HIV screening or testing, and we collected data on organizational characteristics (eg, setting, client, and staff member characteristics; services offered). We generated frequencies on measures and used Poisson regression analysis to examine the association between testing and organizational characteristics.

Results:

Of the 51 organizations surveyed, 21 provided HIV testing. Of the 30 organizations that did not provide HIV testing, only 7 had a relationship with programs that did provide it. Characteristics associated with the provision of HIV testing included offering general health services (relative risk [RR] = 4.57; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.68-12.48; P = .003) and referral services for sexually transmitted infection screening (RR = 5.77; 95% CI, 1.70-19.59; P = .005) and HIV care (RR = 4.78; 95% CI, 1.61-14.21; P = .005), as well as among administrators who perceived their staff members were comfortable talking with young people about sexual health (RR = 3.29; 95% CI, 1.28-8.49; P = .01).

Conclusions:

The prevalence of HIV testing provision at organizations serving young people in this mid-Atlantic city was low, and few organizations offered linkages to HIV testing. Strategies are needed to increase the provision of HIV testing at community organizations serving young people, whether through direct or linked approaches.
Load–extension properties of glass plain knitted technical fabrics – Part II: extensions in the course-wise and wale-wise directions
Authors: Kurbak Arif
Published: January 2017

In this paper, the load–extension behavior of glass plain knitted fabrics is investigated both experimentally and theoretically. Experiments are carried out by preparing two sets of samples for two directions, namely for the course-wise and wale-wise directions. The load–extension properties are explored by attaching dead weights to the lower ends of the samples. Therefore, while obtaining the load–extension properties in the loading direction, the contraction properties of the samples in the lateral directions are also investigated. By observing the load–extension and load–contraction curves, three stages are distinguished. The first stage can be attributed to the fabric extension or contraction. The second stage can be attributed to the yarn extension or contraction as well as to the changes in the shapes of the samples. The third stage can be attributed to the extension or contraction of the fibers. After obtaining the dimensional properties of a single loop in the knitted fabric, curve fittings are carried out for the three stages.

In the rest of the work, a theoretical analysis is carried out to explain the first stage of extension and contraction that was explained above. In the theoretical work, the load–extension or the load–contraction behaviors of the arms of the loops are calculated by using the inflexional elastica theory. The extension behaviors of the loop heads, on the other hand, are calculated by using the extension of the circular ring, which was given in Part I. As a result of the theoretical analysis, some simple equations between the loads applied and the extensions or contractions are obtained. These equations for the extension or contraction rates depend on the initial dimensional properties of the loop, the bending rigidity of the material, frictional restraints and the Poisson ratio. The equations also show that an extension or contraction in the wale-wise direction follows Hooke’s Law, whereas an extension or contraction in the course-wise direction depends on the square root of the applied load.

Providing some simple equations about the relation between the load and extension in the loading direction as well as between the load and contraction in the lateral direction are suggested, determining the contractions in the lateral direction in addition to the extensions in the loading direction, which can be used in engineering software in simulating fabric load–extension behaviors under loadings.

Finally, the initial and the extended states of the fabric are drawn to scale by using 3DS Max computer software.
Challenges of rural development in India
Authors: Singh J. P.
Published: January 2017

The author attempts to assess the level and nature of development in rural India, which presently comprises about three-fourths of the total population, during the last five decades of country's Independence. It has been argued that the progress made so far is not up to scratch. The tasks ahead for rural development with an eye to ameliorating the standard of living of the rural people are quite gigantic and arduous in the face of the country's resource crunch, slow-growing economy and politics of under-development. Furthermore, the tasks loom larger with the lapse of time, ensuing from rapid rise in population and bad governance.
Rwanda, Burundi and their tribal wars
Authors: Isabirye Stephen B. , Mahmoudi Kooros M.
Published: January 2017

This paper demonstrably dispels the assumption that ethnic conflict in Rwanda and Burundi is a chronic endemic phenomenon. It emphasizes the consolidation of the caste system during the colonial era, intra regional disparities within the two communities, high population densities, very weak economic bases, poverty and international interference as some of the cardinal dynamics behind the current deadly contentions within the two states. An analysis behind the genocidal tendencies in the two countries is well illustrated, with special emphasis on the Rwandese tragedy of 1994 as well as its parallels and divergences with the Nazi Holocaust. The effects of the conflict in the two countries such as the proliferation of a gigantic refugee problem and the role of the Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Globalization, are critically assessed.
Agricultural modernization in rural Maharashtra: Myth and reality
Authors: Mohanty B. B.
Published: January 2017

In the post-Independence India, systematic attempts have been made to modernize agriculture through a new strategy based on water-seed-fertilizer-technology package keeping growth and equity as the prime concern. Based on Satara which is one of the highly agricultural modernized districts of Maharashtra, the study analyses the socio-economic effects of the new measures on various categories of rural population both at the micro and macro levels. The results of the study indicate that though the collective impact of these measures has substantially enhanced the agricultural production, it has systematically bypassed the equity issue. The conditions of benefit of the new measures being relative to the resource ownership position, the large farmers have emerged as a class of rich farmers who dominate the socio-economic and political spheres of rural society. Therefore, the paper concludes that the sole objective of agricultural transformation is to create a market and growth oriented rich farmer led agriculture and the question of equality is a myth which constitutes the integral part of the political process of manufacturing consent for a regime of domination and inequality.
Sustainable change through transfer of technology and produce marketing-A case study of the Dongriya Kondh of Orissa
Authors: Panda Tapan K.
Published: January 2017

This paper shows how the approach followed by the government to provide appropriate agricultural technology and knowledge, as well as avenues for marketing of tribal produce through voluntary and government networks, has resulted in a substantial growth and change in the consumption habits of the Dongriya Kondh tribe of Orissa, enabling them to access modern amenities and improve their level of living.
Effectiveness of sources of information on IRDP loan-assisted income generating activities for women beneficiaries in the Kandi area of Punjab
Authors: Brar Jasjit Kaur , Roy Sumita , Goyal Geeta
Published: January 2017

A field survey was carried out in the Nawanshahar district of Punjab to study the sources of information on loan-assisted income generating activities for women beneficiaries under the Integrated Rural Development Programme (IRDP). The extent of dependency on formal sources was on the high side for general information (including on red tape and rules and procedures), but the information-source dependency shifted to personal sources for marketing-related information. The overall effectiveness of sources was found to be of a moderate level, which suggests the need to strengthen them.
Women and poverty: Rural-urban dimensions
Authors: Rustagi Preet
Published: January 2017

This paper is about the gender dimensions of poverty with focus on rural and urban variations. The issues probed are wide-ranging: what are the implications of poverty for women's lives; is the impact of poverty on women distinct, and in what ways are poor women more vulnerable than others? So far, most of the attention has been on rural poverty, however, shifting more recently towards the concerns for urban poor. The question remains whether urban poverty is a spillover of rural poor through the process of migration? What are the characteristic features of urban poor and how do they differ from rural poor, especially in terms of the implications for women's lives. Does the association of women-headed households with poverty hold true in the Indian context? How different are the characteristics of women heads in rural and urban areas and what are its implications on poverty among such households?

These issues are taken up by analysing women-headed households in terms of their marital status, educational levels and employment status across the rural-urban divide.

Gender-based deprivations and discriminations are additions to poverty related vulnerabilities. The twin and combined impact of gender and poverty are examined through women's demographic, educational and employment statuses. Also, the differences between men and women in terms of the nature of employment is compared across the consumption expenditure quintiles to view both gender and poverty interface.
Roles and status of women in extractive industries in India: Making a place for a gender-sensitive mining development
Authors: Lahiri-Dutt Kuntala
Published: January 2017

In tracing women's roles and analysing their low status in the extractive industries in India, particularly coal mining, this paper highlights the need of sensitizing the Indian mining establishments ranging from educational, research and training institutions to the Ministries and Bureaus as well as the industrial organizations so as to provide equal work opportunities for women. It shows that mining is not a ‘non-traditional’ area of work for women as is commonly thought. It also raises the importance of class, caste and locational juxtaposition in understanding institutionalized sensitivities towards gender.

The author argues that the formal extractive industries continue to exclude women and remain sites of rewards of production for men because of the entrenched social bias as traditionally those working in the collieries were largely from lower caste, poorer classes and indigenous communities.
Who is minding the kids? Preferences, choices and childcare arrangements of working mothers in India
Authors: Jatrana Santosh
Published: January 2017

Women's employment outside the home in developing countries has been increasing steadily over last several decades leading to unprecedented changes in family organisation including decline in family size and extended/joint family structures, which have implications for childcare needs of working mothers. However, the inter-connections between these changes, i.e., women's work, childcare arrangements and wellbeing have remained rather unexplored in the developing world. This paper is an attempt in this direction and examines the childcare arrangements, preferences and the decision-making process of working mothers of children aged 0-36 months of age in India, a country undergoing rapid modernization, urbanization and accompanying social change.
A new deal for displaced people: Orissa's involuntary resettlement policy
Authors: Mathur Hari Mohan
Published: January 2017

Because of its rich natural resources and the new investor-friendly development policies, Orissa in recent years has become an attractive investment destination for large corporations, but the increased level of development activity has only led to displacement on a scale much larger than before. Recognizing the urgent need for a comprehensive policy to address the emerging problems of development-induced displacement, the government of Orissa in 2001 accepted the offer of UNDP assistance in preparing a comprehensive resettlement policy. In July 2005 the UNDP submitted to the government a comprehensive policy draft which was based on an in-depth and a wide-ranging desk study, field research and stakeholder consultation processes. Taking the UNDP draft policy into consideration, the government of Orissa finally announced its own resettlement policy in May 2006. A leading Indian newsmagazine has described this UNDP-initiated resettlement policy as the best policy in India. It is a big step forward; certainly a timely and a very significant development. The new policy demonstrates the commitment of Orissa to an investment climate which is both pro-business and concerned with human welfare.
Orissa's highland clearances: The reality gap in R & R
Authors: Padel Felix , Das Samarendra
Published: January 2017

There is clearly an institutionalized attitude of neglect towards the displaced people. For example, no record of the number of people displaced is maintained. Such attitudes prevent the bureaucratic mindset from understanding the enormity of what is involved when tribal people, stripped of their land, are forcibly dumped to unlivable places euphemistically called resettlement colonies. Often it is this lack of understanding that gives rise to strong resistance to projects. In addition, the disjunction between policy and practice is almost total. The aim of all resettlement policies is developmental, to see that the living standards of affected people improve, but this seldom happens. Most often, impoverishment is the lot of those forced to relocate. The respect for human rights of tribal people requires that stringent steps be taken to avoid displacement, that no further displacement takes place until those previously displaced are properly resettled, that the process of consultation be real, not a ritual, and that only those officials be put in charge of resettlement who are properly trained and have an understanding of tribal life and culture.
The Kalinganagar tragedy: Development goal or development malaise
Authors: Pandey Balaji
Published: January 2017

On 2 January 2006, the police in Kalinganagar, Orissa opened fire against a group of tribal people protesting against Tatas constructing a steel plant on their lands and not paying them adequate compensation. This tragedy killing 12 persons on the spot shocked the whole nation. But even in this tragic hour the political parties, which were not particularly concerned with the resettlement issues, lost no time in turning the incident to their advantage. With an eye on the tribal vote bank the Congress president quickly arrived on the scene to express sympathy for the victims of brutality. The BJP also tried to get mileage but was constrained by the fact that it was then part of the ruling coalition in Orissa. This paper provides a vivid account of these events, traces the root causes of this unfortunate incident, and reflects on the development path that India is currently pursuing under globalization pressures. It concludes that unless the displaced people are brought closer to decision making processes, the goal of inclusive development will remain ever more elusive.
New mega projects in Orissa: Protests by potential displaced persons
Authors: Dash Kartik C. , Samal Kishor C.
Published: January 2017

In the era of liberalization and privatization, a seizeable number of mineral processing industries are coming to invest in the mineral-rich state of Orissa. As a result, there is large involuntary population displacement of the marginalized sections including tribal. There is resistance leading to agitation by ‘already'and ‘potential’ displaced persons resulting in government's brutal suppression, as in the case of TISCO at Kalinganagar, Vedanta at Lanjigargh, POSCO at Paradeep, and Utkal Alumina at Kashipuir.
Swelling displacement and elusive rehabilitation: Deficits in policy interventions
Authors: Saxena K. B.
Published: January 2017

In the recent past, two major policy interventions have been made to resettle and rehabilitated persons displaced as a result of acquisition of land for development projects. While the Government of Orrissa brought out its policy in 2006, the Central Government notified a new policy in 2007. Both policies suffer from serious deficits and fail to meet the aspirations of the agitating peasantry and the norms advocated by the civil society groups. This paper highlights these deficits and suggest measures which can bridge them.
Investigation of brucellosis in a female agricultural population in Turkey
Authors: Yentur Doni Nebiye , Gurses Gulcan , Simsek Zeynep , Yildiz Zeyrek Fadile , Yasar Gozde
Published: January 2017

Much epidemiological information concerning brucellosis generally depends on the evaluation of hospital-based retrospective data. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors of brucellosis in female farmworkers in the south-eastern region of Turkey (GAP) in order to obtain a more representative analysis. Our representative community-based cross-sectional study was conducted during four months of 2013, in all nine GAP provinces. An optimum sample size was determined and blood samples were analysed from 707 reproductive-age female farmworkers using the Rose Bengal (RBT) and standard (SAT) agglutination tests. Sociodemographic information was collected during face-to-face interviews with consenting subjects. Crude odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated, and chi-square analyses and logistic regression were performed. Employment as a seasonal farmworker and having had five or more pregnancies were the only risk factors found to be significant. This study implies much greater priority needs be given to the control, early diagnosis and treatment in this population.
A framework for applying explanations of alcohol-related aggression to naturally occurring aggressive behavior
Authors: Graham Kathryn , Wells Samantha , West Paulette
Published: January 2017

This paper provides a framework in which theories/explanations of alcohol-related aggression are identified and operationalized in such a way that they can be applied systematically to naturally occurring aggressive behavior associated with alcohol use. Summaries of explanations are provided along with a brief discussion of how these explanations might be assessed using real-world data. Explanations are grouped by whether they are based on: (a) the effects of alcohol; (b) the drinking set or setting; or (c) expectations and other characteristics of individual drinkers. These explanations are then assessed in terms of relevance and applicability to two examples of naturally occurring incidents of aggression, one based on unobtrusive observation, the second elicited as part of a telephone interview study.
Uses of “disinhibition” in the explanation of intoxicated behavior
Authors: Pernanen Kai
Published: January 2017

Behavior under alcohol intoxication is often explained by referring to the disinhibiting effects of alcohol. In order to assess the nature and the validity of such explanations, it is important to analyze how the term “disinhibition” is in fact used in the literature. Three central uses of the concept can be distinguished. The disinhibition concept is often intended as an explanation of aggression and other affective or excessive behavior, but the nature of the causal disinhibition process is seldom specified. The term is also often used as a descriptive label for behavior that is socially disapproved or excessive compared with sober behavior. However, the basic use of the term in the life sciences is formal or metatheoretical. This is how it is used in behavioristic psychology, and this use is also found in the alcohol literature. The use of “disinhibition” in psychology is closely linked to the stimulus-response paradigm, while a pharmacological or psychodynamic process is typically implied when the term is used in the alcohol literature. An attempt is made to illustrate how alcohol-related behavior can be designated as a case of “disinhibition” in the formal and descriptive senses of the word, without making any assumptions about the nature of the causal processes involved.
Games people play: sex, alcohol and condom use among urban Norwegians
Authors: Træen Bente , Hovland Arild
Published: January 2017

What makes adults have unprotected casual sex under the influence of alcohol? In 1995 afield qualitative study on alcohol and sexuality was undertaken among 33 guests to three clubs designed to attract people from different social layers in Oslo. Men were reluctant to use condoms because of reduced pleasure and sensation. Females’ problems dealt with social stigmatization and with what was sought in the sexual encounter. Condoms were not likely to be used if the woman used oral contraception. The informants trusted the partner would tell of diseases. Trusting was connected to the partner's social status. In love contexts, the symbolic value of sex without condoms may be greater than for sex with condoms. In non-love contexts, condom use was connected to acting responsibly. The informants tended to blame the alcohol for not using condoms. However, rather than failing to use condoms, people more likely never intended to use them.
The hangover: an ambiguous concept in workplace alcohol policy
Authors: Moore Roland S.
Published: January 2017

Because hangovers have been shown to affect cognitive functions and physical performance such as pilot maneuvers, they represent a threat to productivity and safety in the workplace. This article discusses why hangovers are rarely addressed by policies concerning alcohol and intoxication in the workplace. Following a review of relevant research on hangovers with implications for work impairment, the article considers ways in which otherwise well-defined alcohol policies may fail to guide supervisors’ responses to employee hangovers. Measurement problems and biological, psychological, and culturally shaped differences in the experience of hangovers thwart the formulation of simple worktime-hangover policies. The article concludes that further research on the nature and effects of hangovers would strengthen the formulation of policy and educational efforts to prevent them from causing injuries, productivity loss, or conflicts in the workplace.
Alcohol in the news: the role for researchers
Authors: Dorfman Lori , Wallack Lawrence
Published: January 2017

Alcohol is infrequently mentioned in the news. The occasional portrayals rarely depict problems or prevention, instead reinforcing the idea that alcohol is part of the good life or, at best, neutral. Substantive alcohol stories that do appear often report on research or advocacy. Researchers could, and should, have a stronger presence in the news.
Organizing to reduce neighborhood alcohol problems: a frontline account
Authors: Cusenza Simone
Published: January 2017

A brief account is given of community organization to control alcohol problems in the Parkdale neighborhood of Toronto. Appended are two products of this work: the contents of a booklet produced to help residents deal with problem bars and the text of a Toronto City Council resolution on neighborhood rights in liquor license applications.
Cocaine, kicks, and strain: patterns of substance use in Milwaukee gangs
Authors: Hagedorn John M. , Torres Jose , Giglio Greg
Published: January 2017

This study describes the patterns of substance use by male and female gang members in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from their teenage years in the 1980s into adulthood. Milwaukee gangs started out as one form of neighborhood-based drug-using peer group. There was much variation in drug use, and family variables explained little of the variation. Male gang members raised in families with a history of gang involvement and drug use were more likely than other gang members to use cocaine and to use it seriously. On the other hand, severe family distress was not related to onset, duration, or seriousness of cocaine use in either males or females. Cocaine use for both males and females increased in adulthood. It appears that the etiology of adult and adolescent drug use may differ. Neither social control theory nor differential association theory is well suited to explain the variations in gang drug use by age or gender.