bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Janzen‐Connell effects in a broadcast‐spawning Caribbean coral: distance‐dependent survival of larvae and settlers
Authors: Marhaver K. L. , Vermeij M. J. A. , Rohwer F. , Sandin S. A.
Published: August 2012

The Janzen‐Connell hypothesis states that host‐specific biotic enemies (pathogens and predators) promote the coexistence of tree species in tropical forests by causing distance‐ or density‐dependent mortality of seeds and seedlings. Although coral reefs are the aquatic analogues of tropical forests, the Janzen‐Connell model has never been proposed as an explanation for high diversity in these ecosystems. We tested the central predictions of the Janzen‐Connell model in a coral reef, using swimming larvae and settled polyps of the common Caribbean coral Montastraea faveolata. In a field experiment to test for distance‐ or density‐dependent mortality, coral settler mortality was higher and more strongly density dependent in locations down‐current from adult corals. Survival did not increase monotonically with distance, however, revealing the influence of fluid dynamics around adult corals in structuring spatial patterns of mortality. Complementary microbial profiles around adult coral heads revealed that one potential cause of settler mortality, marine microbial communities, are structured at the same spatial scale. In a field experiment to test whether factors causing juvenile mortality are host specific, settler mortality was 2.3–3.0 times higher near conspecific adults vs. near adult corals of other genera or in open reef areas. In four laboratory experiments to test for distance‐dependent, host‐specific mortality, swimming coral larvae were exposed to water collected near conspecific adult corals, near other coral genera, and in open areas of the reef. Microbial abundance in these water samples was manipulated with filters and antibiotics to test whether the cause of mortality was biotic (i.e., microbial). Juvenile survivorship was lowest in unfiltered water collected near conspecifics, and survivorship increased when this water was filter sterilized, collected farther away, or collected near other adult coral genera. Together these results demonstrate for the first time that the diversity‐promoting mechanisms embodied in the Janzen‐Connell model can operate in a marine ecosystem and in an animal. The distribution of adult corals across a reef will thus influence the spatial pattern of juvenile survival. When rare coral species have a survival advantage, coral species diversity per se becomes increasingly important for the persistence and recovery of coral cover on tropical reefs.
Estimating animal densities in the aerosphere using weather radar: To Z or not to Z?
Authors: Chilson Phillip B. , Frick Winifred F. , Stepanian Phillip M. , Shipley J. Ryan , Kunz Thomas H. , Kelly Jeffrey F.
Published: August 2012

Weather radars provide near‐continuous recording and extensive spatial coverage, which is a valuable resource for biologists, who wish to observe and study animal movements in the aerosphere over a wide range of temporal and spatial scales. Powerful biological inferences can be garnered from radar data that have been processed primarily with the intention of understanding meteorology. However, when seeking to answer certain quantitative biological questions, e.g., those related to density of animals, assumptions made in processing radar data for meteorological purposes interfere with biological inference. In particular, values of the radar reflectivity factor (Z) reported by weather radars are not well suited for biological interpretation. The mathematical framework we present here allows researchers to interpret weather radar data originating from biological scatterers (bioscatterers) without relying on assumptions developed specifically for meteorological phenomena. The mathematical principles discussed are used to interpret received echo power as it relates to bioscatterers. We examine the relationships among measurement error and these bioscatter signals using a radar simulator. Our simulation results demonstrate that within 30–90 km from a radar, distances typical for observing aerial vertebrates such as birds and bats, measurement error associated with number densities of animals within the radar sampling volume are low enough to allow reasonable estimates of aerial densities for population monitoring. The framework presented for using radar echoes for quantifying biological populations observed by radar in their aerosphere habitats enhances use of radar remote‐sensing for long‐term population monitoring as well as a host of other ecological applications, such as studies on phenology, movement, and aerial behaviors.
Guidelines for a graph‐theoretic implementation of structural equation modeling
Authors: Grace James B. , Schoolmaster Donald R. , Guntenspergen Glenn R. , Little Amanda M. , Mitchell Brian R. , Miller Kathryn M. , Schweiger E. William
Published: August 2012

Structural equation modeling (SEM) is increasingly being chosen by researchers as a framework for gaining scientific insights from the quantitative analyses of data. New ideas and methods emerging from the study of causality, influences from the field of graphical modeling, and advances in statistics are expanding the rigor, capability, and even purpose of SEM. Guidelines for implementing the expanded capabilities of SEM are currently lacking. In this paper we describe new developments in SEM that we believe constitute a third‐generation of the methodology. Most characteristic of this new approach is the generalization of the structural equation model as a causal graph. In this generalization, analyses are based on graph theoretic principles rather than analyses of matrices. Also, new devices such as metamodels and causal diagrams, as well as an increased emphasis on queries and probabilistic reasoning, are now included. Estimation under a graph theory framework permits the use of Bayesian or likelihood methods. The guidelines presented start from a declaration of the goals of the analysis. We then discuss how theory frames the modeling process, requirements for causal interpretation, model specification choices, selection of estimation method, model evaluation options, and use of queries, both to summarize retrospective results and for prospective analyses.

The illustrative example presented involves monitoring data from wetlands on Mount Desert Island, home of Acadia National Park. Our presentation walks through the decision process involved in developing and evaluating models, as well as drawing inferences from the resulting prediction equations. In addition to evaluating hypotheses about the connections between human activities and biotic responses, we illustrate how the structural equation (SE) model can be queried to understand how interventions might take advantage of an environmental threshold to limit Typha invasions.

The guidelines presented provide for an updated definition of the SEM process that subsumes the historical matrix approach under a graph‐theory implementation. The implementation is also designed to permit complex specifications and to be compatible with various estimation methods. Finally, they are meant to foster the use of probabilistic reasoning in both retrospective and prospective considerations of the quantitative implications of the results.
Collinin Reduces Porphyromonas gingivalis Growth and Collagenase Activity and Inhibits the Lipopolysaccharide‐Induced Macrophage Inflammatory Response and Osteoclast Differentiation and Function
Authors: Santos Juliana , Marquis Annie , Epifano Francesco , Genovese Salvatore , Curini Massimo , Grenier Daniel
Published: August 2012

Background: Collinin is a secondary plant metabolite belonging to the class of geranyloxycoumarins. We explored the potential beneficial impact of collinin on periodontal health by investigating its effect on Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced inflammatory response of macrophages, and osteoclastogenesis.

Methods: Collinin was synthesized from pyrogallol and propiolic acid. A microdilution assay was used to determine antibacterial activity of collinin. The effect of collinin on collagenase activity of P. gingivalis was determined using fluorescent collagen. Macrophages were treated with collinin before being stimulated with LPS. The secretion of interleukin‐6, chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 5, and prostaglandin E2 was assessed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). The inhibitory effect of collinin on differentiation of human preosteoclastic cells was assessed by tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase staining, whereas the secretion of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) was measured by ELISA. Bone resorption activity was investigated by using a human bone plate coupled with an immunoassay that detected the release of collagen fragments.

Results: Collinin inhibited the growth of P. gingivalis. The effect was more pronounced under iron‐restricted conditions. Collinin dose dependently inhibited the degradation of type I collagen by P. gingivalis. It was also a potent inhibitor of the LPS‐induced inflammatory response in macrophages and completely inhibited receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand‐dependent osteoclast differentiation and MMP‐9 secretion. Last, collinin affected bone degradation mediated by mature osteoclasts by significantly decreasing the release of collagen helical peptides.

Conclusion: Although clinical trials are required, data from these in vitro analyses support the potential of collinin as a therapeutic agent for treating inflammatory periodontitis associated with bone breakdown.
8‐Hydroxy‐Deoxyguanosine Levels in Gingival Crevicular Fluid and Saliva in Patients With Chronic Periodontitis After Initial Periodontal Treatment
Authors: Öngöz Dede Figen , Özden Feyza Otan , Avcı Bahattin
Published: August 2012

Background: This study evaluates the effects of initial periodontal treatment on the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and salivary levels of 8‐hydroxy‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) as a marker of oxidative deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage in patients with chronic periodontitis (CP).

Methods: At baseline, clinical parameters were determined and GCF and saliva samples were obtained from 24 patients with CP and 24 individuals with clinically healthy periodontium. GCF, saliva samples, and clinical periodontal measurements were repeated at day 10, 1 month, and 3 months following initial periodontal therapy in patients with CP. 8‐OHdG levels of GCF and saliva samples were investigated by using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: Statistically significant higher 8‐OHdG levels of GCF and a significant decrease after initial periodontal therapy were determined in the CP group (P <0.001). A significant positive correlation was found between 8‐OHdG levels of GCF and clinical periodontal measurements (P <0.001). However, salivary levels of 8‐OHdG did not differ between groups or during initial periodontal therapy (P >0.05).

Conclusions: This study reveals that DNA injury and oxidative stress increase in tissue cells and especially in periodontal pockets in patients with CP, and the periodontal treatment results in a significant decrease of 8‐OHdG levels in the GCF samples. To the best of our knowledge, this study evaluates for the first time, 8‐OHdG levels in GCF, which is shown to be more useful as a biomarker than saliva. 8‐OHdG was found to be important and may reveal the severity of periodontal disease and the effect of periodontal therapy.
Bacterial Antagonism Against Periodontopathogens
Authors: van Essche Mark , Loozen Gitte , Godts Christof , Boon Nico , Pauwels Martine , Quirynen Marc , Teughels Wim
Published: August 2012

Background: The aim of the current study is to compare the prevalence of commensal bacteria, with beneficial properties, for healthy and diseased individuals and additionally to examine the inhibitory effect of some commercial dietary probiotics on periodontopathogens, comparing this inhibitory effect to that of orally derived beneficial bacteria.

Methods: Subgingival plaque samples from 35 patients (healthy and periodontitis patients) were analyzed. Growth inhibition of the periodontal pathogens Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans was examined using the agar overlay technique and agar well diffusion method. The quantification of the inhibitory effect was checked with the agar well diffusion method.

Results: Using the agar overlay technique, the prevalence of strains antagonistic toward P. gingivalis, A. actinomycetemcomitans, and F. nucleatum was found to be higher in healthy individuals than in individuals with periodontitis, but this could not be validated by the agar well diffusion assay. Compared with the antagonistic activity of the isolated strains, the probiotic strains overall showed a stronger inhibition of the periodontal pathogens.

Conclusion: It was shown that some oral bacteria can cause antagonism toward periodontopathogens, and these observations underline the therapeutic potential of applications that stimulate oral health by the application of beneficial effector strains.
Comparison Between a β‐Tricalcium Phosphate and an Absorbable Collagen Sponge Carrier Technology for rhGDF‐5–Stimulated Periodontal Wound Healing/Regeneration
Authors: Kim Young‐Taek , Wikesjö Ulf M.E. , Jung Ui‐Won , Lee Jung‐Seok , Kim Tae‐Gyun , Kim Chong‐Kwan
Published: August 2012

Background: The objective of this study is to compare a candidate β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) carrier technology with the absorbable collagen sponge (ACS) benchmark to support recombinant human growth/differentiation factor‐5 (rhGDF‐5)–stimulated periodontal wound healing/regeneration.

Methods: Routine, bilateral, critical‐size (5‐mm), 1‐wall, intrabony periodontal defects were surgically created in the mandibular premolar region in 10 beagle dogs. Five animals received rhGDF‐5/β‐TCP and five animals received rhGDF‐5/ACS, with a total of 20 μg rhGDF‐5 per defect. The animals were euthanized for histologic and histometric analyses at 8 weeks postsurgery.

Results: Both rhGDF‐5/ACS and rhGDF‐5/β‐TCP stimulated the formation of functionally oriented periodontal ligament, cellular mixed fiber cementum, and woven/lamellar bone. Bone regeneration (height and area) was significantly greater for the rhGDF‐5/β‐TCP construct than for the rhGDF‐5/ACS (3.26 ± 0.30 mm versus 2.22 ± 0.82 mm, P <0.01; and 10.45 ± 2.26 mm2 versus 5.62 ± 2.39 mm2, P <0.01, respectively). Cementum formation ranged from 3.83 ± 0.73 mm to 3.03 ± 1.18 mm without significant differences between groups. Root resorption/ankylosis was not observed.

Conclusions: The β‐TCP carrier technology significantly enhanced rhGDF‐5–stimulated bone formation compared with the ACS benchmark in this discriminating periodontal defect model. The structural integrity of the β‐TCP carrier, preventing compression while providing a framework for bone ingrowth, may account for the observed results.
Industry Self-Regulation to Improve Student Health: Quantifying Changes in Beverage Shipments to Schools
Authors: Wescott Robert F. , Fitzpatrick Brendan M. , Phillips Elizabeth
Published: August 2012

Objectives. We developed a data collection and monitoring system to independently evaluate the self-regulatory effort to reduce the number of beverage calories available to children during the regular and extended school day. We have described the data collection procedures used to verify data supplied by the beverage industry and quantified changes in school beverage shipments.

Methods. Using a proprietary industry data set collected in 2005 and semiannually in 2007 through 2010, we measured the total volume of beverage shipments to elementary, middle, and high schools to monitor intertemporal changes in beverage volumes, the composition of products delivered to schools, and portion sizes. We compared data with findings from existing research of the school beverage landscape and a separate data set based on contracts between schools and beverage bottling companies.

Results. Between 2004 and the 2009–2010 school year, the beverage industry reduced calories shipped to schools by 90%. On a total ounces basis, shipments of full-calorie soft drinks to schools decreased by 97%.

Conclusions. Industry self-regulation, with the assistance of a transparent and independent monitoring process, can be a valuable tool in improving public health outcomes.
Healthy Bodegas: Increasing and Promoting Healthy Foods at Corner Stores in New York City
Authors: Dannefer Rachel , Williams Donya A. , Baronberg Sabrina , Silver Lynn
Published: August 2012

Objectives. We assessed the effectiveness of an initiative to increase the stock and promotion of healthy foods in 55 corner stores in underserved neighborhoods.

Methods. We evaluated the intervention through in-store observations and preintervention and postintervention surveys of all 55 store owners as well as surveys with customers at a subset of stores.

Results. We observed an average of 4 changes on a 15-point criteria scale. The most common were placing refrigerated water at eye level, stocking canned fruit with no sugar added, offering a healthy sandwich, and identifying healthier items. Forty-six (84%) store owners completed both surveys. Owners reported increased sales of healthier items, but identified barriers including consumer demand and lack of space and refrigeration. The percentage of customers surveyed who purchased items for which we promoted a healthier option (low-sodium canned goods, low-fat milk, whole-grain bread, healthier snacks and sandwiches) increased from 5% to 16%.

Conclusions. Corner stores are important vehicles for access to healthy foods. The approach described here achieved improvements in participating corner stores and in some consumer purchases and may be a useful model for other locales.
Self-Reported Influenza-Like Illness and Receipt of Influenza Antiviral Drugs During the 2009 Pandemic, United States, 2009–2010
Authors: Biggerstaff Matthew , Jhung Michael , Kamimoto Laurie , Balluz Lina , Finelli Lyn
Published: August 2012

Objectives. The purpose of our study was to more accurately characterize people reporting influenza-like illness (ILI) and evaluate trends in health care seeking and influenza diagnosis and treatment during the 2009 influenza pandemic.

Methods. From September 2009 to March 2010, we ascertained ILI (fever with cough or sore throat), health care seeking, and clinical diagnosis and treatment of influenza with influenza antiviral drugs among adults in 51 jurisdictions, and ILI and health care seeking among children in 41 jurisdictions.

Results. Among 216 431 adults and 43 511 children, 8.1% and 28.4% reported ILI, respectively. ILI peaked during November interviews and was higher among young people and American Indian/Alaska Natives. Of those with ILI, 40% of adults and 56% of children reported seeking health care; 26% of adults who sought care reported receiving a diagnosis of influenza. Of adults reporting an influenza diagnosis, 36% were treated with influenza antiviral drugs; treatment was highest among adults aged 18 to 49 years.

Conclusions. Analysis of ILI data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System enabled a better understanding of the factors associated with self-reported ILI, health care seeking, and clinical influenza diagnosis and treatment, and will help inform year-to-year influenza trends.
Recessions and Health: The Impact of Economic Trends on Air Pollution in California
Authors: Davis Mary E.
Published: August 2012

Objectives. I explored the hypothesis that economic activity has a significant impact on exposure to air pollution and ultimately human health.

Methods. I used county-level employment statistics in California (1980–2000), along with major regulatory periods and other controlling factors, to estimate local concentrations of the coefficient of haze, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide using a mixed regression model approach.

Results. The model explained between 33% and 48% of the variability in air pollution levels as estimated by the overall R2 values. The relationship between employment measures and air pollution was statistically significant, suggesting that air quality improves during economic downturns. Additionally, major air quality regulations played a significant role in reducing air pollution levels over the study period.

Conclusions. This study provides important evidence of a role for the economy in understanding human exposure to environmental pollution. The evidence further suggests that the impact of environmental regulations are likely to be overstated when they occur during recessionary periods, and understated when they play out during periods of economic growth.
A Review of Disaster-Related Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Surveillance, Epidemiology, and Opportunities for Prevention
Authors: Iqbal Shahed , Clower Jacquelyn H. , Hernandez Sandra A. , Damon Scott A. , Yip Fuyuen Y.
Published: August 2012

Objectives. We conducted a systematic literature review to better understand aspects of disaster-related carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning surveillance and determine potentially effective prevention strategies.

Methods. This review included information from 28 journal articles on disaster-related CO poisoning cases occurring between 1991 and 2009 in the United States.

Results. We identified 362 incidents and 1888 disaster-related CO poisoning cases, including 75 fatalities. Fatalities occurred primarily among persons who were aged 18 years or older (88%) and male (79%). Hispanics and Asians accounted for 20% and 14% of fatal cases and 21% and 7% of nonfatal cases, respectively. Generators were the primary exposure source for 83% of fatal and 54% of nonfatal cases; 67% of these fatal cases were caused by indoor generator placement. Charcoal grills were a major source of exposure during winter storms. Most fatalities (94%) occurred at home. Nearly 89% of fatal and 53% of nonfatal cases occurred within 3 days of disaster onset.

Conclusions. Public health prevention efforts could benefit from emphasizing predisaster risk communication and tailoring interventions for racial, ethnic, and linguistic minorities. These findings highlight the need for surveillance and CO-related information as components of disaster preparedness, response, and prevention.
How to Identify Food Deserts: Measuring Physical and Economic Access to Supermarkets in King County, Washington
Authors: Jiao Junfeng , Moudon Anne V. , Ulmer Jared , Hurvitz Philip M. , Drewnowski Adam
Published: August 2012

Objectives. We explored new ways to identify food deserts.

Methods. We estimated physical and economic access to supermarkets for 5 low-income groups in Seattle–King County, Washington. We used geographic information system data to measure physical access: service areas around each supermarket were delineated by ability to walk, bicycle, ride transit, or drive within 10 minutes. We assessed economic access by stratifying supermarkets into low, medium, and high cost. Combining income and access criteria generated multiple ways to estimate food deserts.

Results. The 5 low-income group definitions yielded total vulnerable populations ranging from 4% to 33% of the county’s population. Almost all of the vulnerable populations lived within a 10-minute drive or bus ride of a low- or medium-cost supermarket. Yet at most 34% of the vulnerable populations could walk to any supermarket, and as few as 3% could walk to a low-cost supermarket.

Conclusions. The criteria used to define low-income status and access to supermarkets greatly affect estimates of populations living in food deserts. Measures of access to food must include travel duration and mode and supermarket food costs.
NAVIGATING the Future Through the Past The Enduring Historical Legacy of Federal Children's Health Programs in the United States
Authors: Brosco Jeffrey Paul
Published: August 2012

The United States excels at treating the most complex medical conditions, but our low-ranking health statistics (relative to other countries) do not match our high-end health care spending. One way to understand this paradox is to examine the history of federal children's health programs. In the 1800s, children's health advocates confronted social determinants of health to reduce infant mortality. Over the past 100 years, however, physicians have increasingly focused on individual doctor–patient encounters; public health professionals, meanwhile, have maintained a population health perspective but struggled with the politics of addressing root causes of disease. Political history and historical demography help explain some salient differences with European nations that date to the founding of federal children's health programs in the early 20th century. More recently, federal programs for children with intellectual disability illustrate technical advances in medicine, shifting children's health epidemiology, and the politics of public health policy.
Intimate Partner Violence and Socioeconomic Deprivation in England: Findings From a National Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Khalifeh Hind , Hargreaves James , Howard Louise M. , Birdthistle Isolde
Published: August 2012

Objectives. We examined the prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV) and its association with social deprivation in England.

Methods. We used multivariable logistic regression to investigate IPV correlates among 21 226 men and women aged 16 to 59 years in the 2008 nationally representative cross-sectional British Crime Survey.

Results. Lifetime IPV was reported by 23.8% of women and 11.5% of men. Physical IPV was reported by 16.8% and 7.0%, respectively; emotional-only IPV was reported by 5.8% and 4.2%, respectively. After adjustment for demographic confounders, lifetime physical IPV experienced by women was associated with social housing tenure (odds ratio [OR] = 2.3; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.0, 2.7), low household income (OR = 2.2; 95% CI = 1.8, 2.7), poor educational attainment (OR = 1.2; 95% CI = 1.0, 1.5), low social class (OR = 1.5; 95% CI = 0.3, 1.7), and living in a multiply deprived area (OR = 1.4; 95% CI = 1.1, 1.7). Physical IPV experienced by men and emotional IPV experienced by either gender were generally not associated with deprivation factors.

Conclusions. Physical and emotional IPV are very common among adults in England. Emotional IPV prevention policies may be appropriate across the social spectrum; those for physical IPV should be particularly accessible to disadvantaged women.
The Role of Historically Black Colleges and Universities in Training the Health Care Workforce
Authors: Noonan Allan , Lindong Ian , Jaitley Vijai N.
Published: August 2012

Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) continue to be overlooked as a resource to address health care workforce shortages and growing needs for a diverse health workforce, despite our commitment as a nation to health equity and eliminating health disparities.

Health workforce graduation rates help illuminate the roles of institutions of higher education in meeting workforce needs. Effective approaches to eliminating disparities invest and leverage resources that address our health workforce and diversity deficits.

We must recognize HBCUs as a valuable resource for educating underrepresented groups as health professionals. Increasing resources and enhancing support for building the capacity of HBCUs to produce health professionals is vital to addressing disparities and achieving health equity for our nation.
The Relationship Between Built Environments and Physical Activity: A Systematic Review
Authors: O. Ferdinand Alva , Sen Bisakha , Rahurkar Saurabh , Engler Sally , Menachemi Nir
Published: August 2012

Objectives. We conducted a systematic review of the literature examining the relationship between built environments (e.g., parks, trails, sidewalks) and physical activity (PA) or obesity rates.

Methods. We performed a 2-step inclusion protocol to identify empirical articles examining any form of built environment and any form of PA (or obesity rate) as the outcome. We extracted data from included abstracts for analysis by using a standard code sheet developed for this study.

Results. Of 169 included articles, 89.2% reported beneficial relationships—but virtually all articles utilized simple observational study designs not suited for determining causality. Studies utilizing objective PA measures (e.g., pedometer) were 18% less likely to identify a beneficial relationship. Articles focusing on children in community settings (–14.2%), those examining direct measures of obesity (–6.2%), or those with an academic first author (–3.4%) were less likely to find a beneficial relationship.

Conclusions. Policymakers at federal and local levels should encourage more rigorous scientific research to determine whether altered built environments will result in increased PA and decreased obesity rates.
Contraception and Clean Needles: Feasibility of Combining Mobile Reproductive Health and Needle Exchange Services for Female Exotic Dancers
Authors: Moore Eva , Han Jennifer , Serio-Chapman Christine , Mobley Cynthia , Watson Catherine , Terplan Mishka
Published: August 2012

Young women engaged in exotic dancing have a higher need for reproductive health services than women not in this profession, and many also use drugs or exchange sex for money or drugs. Few report receiving reproductive health services. We describe a public health, academic, and community partnership that provided reproductive health services on needle exchange mobile vans in the “red light district” in downtown Baltimore, Maryland. Women made 220 visits to the vans in the first 21 months of the program's operation, and 65% of these visits involved provision of contraception. Programmatic costs were feasible. Joint provision of needle exchange and reproductive health services targeting exotic dancers has the potential to reduce unintended pregnancies and link pregnant, substance-abusing women to reproductive care, and such programs should be implemented more widely.
Prevalence of Abuse and Violence Before, During, and After Pregnancy in a National Sample of Canadian Women
Authors: Daoud Nihaya , Urquia Marcelo L. , O'Campo Patricia , Heaman Maureen , Janssen Patricia A. , Smylie Janet , Thiessen Kellie
Published: August 2012

Objectives. We describe the prevalence of abuse before, during, and after pregnancy among a national population-based sample of Canadian new mothers.

Methods. We estimated prevalence, frequency, and timing of physical and sexual abuse, identified category of perpetrator, and examined the distribution of abuse by social and demographic characteristics in a weighted sample of 76 500 (unweighted sample = 6421) Canadian mothers interviewed postpartum for the Maternity Experiences Survey (2006–2007).

Results. Prevalence of any abuse in the 2 years before the interviews was 10.9% (6% before pregnancy only, 1.4% during pregnancy only, 1% postpartum only, and 2.5% in any combination of these times). The prevalence of any abuse was higher among low-income mothers (21.2%), lone mothers (35.3%), and Aboriginal mothers (30.6%). In 52% of the cases, abuse was perpetrated by an intimate partner. Receiving information on what to do was reported by 61% of the abused mothers.

Conclusions. Large population-based studies on abuse around pregnancy can facilitate the identification of patterns of abuse and women at high risk for abuse. Before and after pregnancy may be particularly important times to monitor risk of abuse.
Federally Funded Sterilization: Time to Rethink Policy?
Authors: Borrero Sonya , Zite Nikki , Creinin Mitchell D.
Published: August 2012

In the 1970s, concern about coercive sterilization of low-income and minority women in the United States led the US Department of Health, Education, and Welfare to create strict regulations for federally funded sterilization procedures.

Although these policies were instituted to secure informed consent and protect women from involuntary sterilization, there are significant data indicating that these policies may not, in fact, ensure that consent is truly informed and, further, may prevent many low-income women from getting a desired sterilization procedure.

Given the alarmingly high rates of unintended pregnancy in the United States, especially among low-income populations, we feel that restrictive federal sterilization policies should be reexamined and modified to simultaneously ensure informed decision-making and honor women’s reproductive choices.
Building an Evidence Base to Inform Interventions for Pregnant and Parenting Adolescents: A Call for Rigorous Evaluation
Authors: Lachance Christina R. , Burrus Barri B. , Scott Alicia Richmond
Published: August 2012

Adolescent parents and their children are at increased risk for adverse short- and long-term health and social outcomes. Effective interventions are needed to support these young families.

We studied the evidence base and found a dearth of rigorously evaluated programs. Strategies from successful interventions are needed to inform both intervention design and policies affecting these adolescents. The lack of rigorous evaluations may be attributable to inadequate emphasis on and sufficient funding for evaluation, as well as to challenges encountered by program evaluators working with this population.

More rigorous program evaluations are urgently needed to provide scientifically sound guidance for programming and policy decisions. Evaluation lessons learned have implications for other vulnerable populations.
Preventing Subsequent Births for Low-Income Adolescent Mothers: An Exploratory Investigation of Mediating Factors in Intensive Case Management
Authors: Lewis Carol M. , Faulkner Monica , Scarborough Megan , Berkeley Bethany
Published: August 2012

We used a quasi-experimental design to examine the impact of intensive case management (ICM) on preventing 3-year subsequent births for low-income adolescent mothers. We used χ2 and mediation analyses, respectively, to test whether ICM reduced likelihood of subsequent births and whether birth control and perceived social support mediated this relationship. Participants in ICM were less likely to have a subsequent birth within 3 years, but we found no evidence for mediators. This study suggests that ICM may be effective in preventing subsequent births for adolescents.
Effects of Home Visiting on Adolescent Mothers’ Parenting Attitudes
Authors: McKelvey Lorraine M. , Burrow Nicola A. , Balamurugan Appathurai , Whiteside-Mansell Leanne , Plummer Pamela
Published: August 2012

We examined the impact of a home visiting intervention on 227 adolescent mothers’ parenting attitudes. At enrollment, half of mothers were at risk for child maltreatment. Mothers assigned to intervention (n = 161) received home visits and case management. Intervention and comparison mothers (n = 66) participated in monthly peer group meetings. Regression analyses controlling for enrollment differences indicated that intervention group mothers had significant improvements in 3 of 5 subscales and in total Adult-Adolescent Parenting Inventory-2 scores relative to the comparison group.
Validity and Reliability of the Italian Version of the Functioning Assessment Short Test (FAST) in Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Moro Maria Francesca , Colom Francesc , Floris Francesca , Pintus Elisa , Pintus Mirra , Contini Francesca , Carta Mauro Giovanni
Published: August 2012

Background:

Functioning Assessment Short Test (FAST) is a brief instrument designed to assess the main functioning problems experienced by psychiatric patients, specifically bipolar patients. It includes 24 items assessing impairment or disability in six domains of functioning: autonomy, occupational functioning, cognitive functioning, financial issues, interpersonal relationships and leisure time. The aim of this study is to measure the validity and reliability of the Italian version of this instrument.

Methods:

Twenty-four patients with DSM-IV TR bipolar disorder and 20 healthy controls were recruited and evaluated in three private clinics in Cagliari (Sardinia, Italy). The psychometric properties of FAST (feasibility, internal consistency, concurrent validity, discriminant validity (patients vs controls and eutimic patients vs manic and depressed), and test-retest reliability were analyzed.

Results:

The internal consistency obtained was very high with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.955. A highly significant negative correlation with GAF was obtained (r = -0.9; p < 0.001) pointing to a reasonable degree of concurrent validity. FAST show a good test-retest reliability between two independent evaluation differing of one week (mean K =0.73). The total FAST scores were lower in controls as compared with Bipolar Patients and in Euthimic patients compared with Depressed or Manic.

Conclusion:

The Italian version of the FAST showed similar psychometrics properties as far as regard internal consistency and discriminant validity of the original version and show a good test retest reliability measure by means of K statistics.
An Emerging Strategy for Cancer Treatment Targeting Aberrant Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3β
Authors: Miyashita Katsuyoshi , Nakada Mitsutoshi , Shakoori Abbas , Ishigaki Yasuhito , Shimasaki Takeo , Motoo Yoshiharu , Kawakami Kazuyuki , Minamoto Toshinari
Published: August 2012

Improvement in the outcome of cancer patients who are refractory to currently available treatments relies on the development of target-directed therapies. One group of molecular targets with potential clinical relevance is a set of protein tyrosine kinases encoded mostly by proto-oncogenes and that are frequently deregulated in cancer. Glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β), a serine/threonine protein kinase, has emerged as a therapeutic target for common chronic diseases including type 2 diabetes mellitus, neurodegenerative disorders, inflammation and osteoporosis. This is based on its currently known functions and primary pathologic causalities. GSK3β has well characterized roles in the regulation of gene transcription and in oncogenic signaling. We have shown that deregulated GSK3β promotes gastrointestinal, pancreatic and liver cancers and glioblastomas. Furthermore, we have demonstrated that inhibition of GSK3β attenuates cancer cells survival and proliferation, induces cell senescence and apoptosis and sensitizes tumor cells to chemotherapeutic agents and ionizing radiation. This has led us to propose GSK3β as a potential therapeutic target in cancer. The anti-tumor effects of GSK3β inhibition are mediated by changes in the expression and phosphorylation of molecules critical to the regulation of cell cycling, proliferation and apoptosis and underlie the pathological role for GSK3β in cancer. Investigation of the mechanisms responsible for deregulation of GSK3β and the consequent downstream pathologic effects in cancer cells has shed light on the molecular pathways leading to tumorigenesis. This will allow exploration of novel therapeutic strategies for cancer that target aberrant GSK3β.
Current Status of Thalidomide and CC-5013 in the Treatment of Metastatic Prostate Cancer
Authors: Sissung Tristan M. , Thordardottir Silja , Gardner Erin R. , Figg William D.
Published: August 2012

Thalidomide is emerging as a potentially important therapeutic option in the treatment of metastatic prostate cancer. Although the mechanism of action of this agent remains elusive in malignancies of the prostate, recent data has indicated that thalidomide may play a role in inflammation, immunomodulation, and anti-angiogenesis. Lenalidomide (CC-5013), a thalidomide analogue with improved activity and safety profile in certain disease contexts, is in the early stages of development in prostate cancer. This review will provide the current status of the history, mechanism, metabolism, and clinical use of thalidomide in metastatic prostate cancer. It will also describe the mechanism and clinical use of lenalidomide as it pertains to malignancies of the prostate.
Angiogenesis Inhibition in the Treatment of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Madan Ravi A. , Dahut William L.
Published: August 2012

For many men, prostate cancer is an indolent disease that, even without definitive therapy, may have no impact on their quality of life or overall survival. However for those men who are either diagnosed with or eventually develop metastatic disease, prostate cancer is a painful and universally fatal disease. Testosterone-lowering hormonal therapy may control the disease for some time, but patients eventually develop resistance and progress clinically. At this point, only docetaxel has been shown to improve survival, so clearly additional therapeutic options are needed. Angiogenesis inhibition is an active area of clinical research in prostate cancer. Without angiogenesis, tumors have insufficient nutrients and oxygen to grow larger than a few millimeters and are potentially less likely to metastasize. In prostate cancer in particular, angiogenesis plays a significant role in tumor proliferation, and markers of angiogenesis appear to have prognostic significance. Several different compounds have been developed to inhibit angiogenesis, including monoclonal antibodies, multitargeted kinase inhibitors, and fusion proteins. In addition, more traditional agents may also have an impact on angiogenesis. Trials studying antiangiogenic agents have been conducted in localized and advanced prostate cancer. There are several large, ongoing phase III trials in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. The findings of these and future studies will ultimately determine the role of angiogenesis inhibitors in the treatment of prostate cancer.
Hormonal Therapy for Prostate Cancer: Toward Further Unraveling of Androgen Receptor Function
Authors: Sharifi Nima
Published: August 2012

Prostate cancer is a major cause of cancer-related death in men. Prostate cancer is an androgen-responsive tumor and the treatment of advanced prostate cancer involves hormonal therapy. First-line treatment for advanced prostate cancer is androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), usually with agents that suppress gonadotropins through a pituitary mechanism. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists and antagonists both suppress gonadal release of testosterone, although their activity profiles vary. ADT down-regulates androgen receptor (AR) transcriptional activity in the tumor but the response in metastatic disease is transient and tumors eventually progress as castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Although serum testosterone concentrations decline dramatically with ADT, CRPC growth remains largely dependent on AR activity. Secondary hormonal therapies are then often employed to further dampen AR-driven transcription. These secondary hormonal therapies either further deplete adrenal or intratumoral androgen synthesis, or directly and competitively antagonize AR. New hormonal agents with both of these mechanisms are in clinical trials and show promising activity in patients with CRPC. Abiraterone acetate is an inhibitor of CYP17, which is an enzyme required for the synthesis of all androgens and estrogens. MDV3100 is an AR antagonist that has a higher affinity for AR than any other AR antagonist in clinic use. In phase I and phase II clinical trials, both agents have significant activity. These agents and the promise of the development of others provide hope that more effective hormonal therapies may soon be offered to patients, which will improve clinical outcomes.
Local Treatment for Lymphoid Malignancies of the Eye
Authors: Giuliari Gian Paolo , Hinkle David M. , Foster C. Stephen
Published: August 2012

Lymphoid malignancies may affect the eye either as primary intraocular lymphomas (PIOL), or by secondary involvement of a nodal lymphoma. PIOL is a subtype of primary central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma and in up to 98% of the cases are non- Hodgkins B cell lymphomas. PIOL may occur in isolation, without involvement of the CNS. They may affect both the vitreous and the retina, while secondary invasion predominantly affects the uvea. Both forms frequently masquerade as intraocular inflammation or uveitis. Systemic chemotherapy, alone or in combination with radiotherapy has been used in the past for the treatment of PIOL. Methotrexate and rituximab are immunomodulatory agents used in the treatment of cancer and autoimmune diseases. Recent reports have shown the intraocular safety and efficacy of both of these agents for the treatment of PIOL.
Kinase Inhibitors in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Limvorasak Suwicha , Posadas Edwin M.
Published: August 2012

Prostate cancer is a significant public health problem around the world. Once a patient has disease that is no longer addressable by local means, the cancer is considered incurable. Therapeutic goals at this point include not only extension of survival but also alteration of the natural history which may otherwise lead to significant pain and morbidity from the disease process- all related to metastases. While effective systemic therapies do currently exist, their roles are considered limited for many patients. Given the overwhelming incidence and annual mortality figures related to prostate cancer, there continues to be an urgent need for therapeutic advances. Protein kinases have emerged as “druggable” therapeutic targets as they control a multitude of basic cellular activities, including growth, survival, proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. Several of these kinases have oncogenic properties as in the setting of malignancy they may be overactive and/or dysregulated leading to the excessive proliferation and motility typical of cancer cells. Small molecule inhibitors have shown efficacy in several tumor models and are actively being studied in prostate cancer. This review summarizes historical and contemporary studies evaluating kinase inhibitors in the treatment of prostate cancer.
The Theoretical and Experimental Investigation into Technological Parameters of High-Melting Metal Arc Spraying
Authors: H. Li C. , Wang S. , C. Ding Y.
Published: August 2012

The experimental study is done for technological parameters of high-melting metal arc spraying to study the
influence of spraying current, spraying voltage and wire feed voltage on spraying arc and the influence of spraying current
on coating temperature and analyze theoretically the distribution rules of spray gun jet speed field and temperature field
and their influencing factors. The results showed that the arc current increases along with arc voltage increase. The lower
the spraying voltage is, the smaller the molten grain size becomes. However, if the arc voltage is lower than the minimum
critical arc voltage of the material, the arc could not keep smooth burning. The spraying current has correspondence
relationship with wire feed speed. The spraying current could be adjusted through wire feed speed adjustment.
Practitioner Summary of Can Auditors Reduce Negligence Verdicts? An Examination of Remedial Tactics
Authors: Cornell Robert M. , Eining Martha M. , Warne Rick C.
Published: August 2012

This article summarizes our recent study, “The Use of Remedial Tactics in Negligence Litigation” (Cornell et al. 2009). Auditors face significant litigation risk when adverse economic events occur with clients, even when the auditors followed Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS) when they conducted the audit. Civil litigation rules in many U.S. jurisdictions allow plaintiffs to compel testimony from defendants during trial proceedings. We investigated whether auditors could use verbal remediation tactics to reduce the likelihood of guilty verdicts when accused of professional negligence. In a mock trial setting, we examined whether an apology and/or a first-person justification offered by an auditor-defendant results in fewer negligence verdicts against audit firms. Our results indicate that, when an auditor testifies and expresses an apology and/or a first-person justification, jurors find the auditor guilty of negligence about half as often as when no remedial tactic is used. These findings provide evidence that auditors accused of negligence may effectively utilize such tactics to defend their audit decisions and actions.