bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Epidemiologic Differences between Native-Born and Foreign-Born Black People Diagnosed with HIV Infection in 33 U.S. States, 2001–2007
Authors: Johnson Anna Satcher , Hu Xiaohong , Dean Hazel D. 
Published: January 2017

Objective. Few studies have examined the extent to which foreign-born people contribute to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic among non-Hispanic black people in the U.S. We sought to determine differences in the epidemiology of HIV infection among native- and foreign-born black people, using data from the national HIV surveillance system of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Methods. We estimated the number of HIV infections among black adults and adolescents diagnosed from 2001 to 2007 in 33 U.S. states. We compared annual HIV diagnosis rates, distributions of demographic characteristics and HIV-transmission risk factors, late diagnoses of HIV infection, and survival after an acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) diagnosis for native- and foreign-born black people. Results. From 2001 to 2007, an estimated 100,013 black adults and adolescents were diagnosed with HIV infection in 33 U.S. states, for which country-of-birth information was available. Of these, 11.7% were foreign-born, with most from the Caribbean (54.1%) and Africa (41.5%). Annual HIV diagnoses decreased by 5.5% per year (95% confidence interval [CI] −5.9, −5.0) among native-born black people. Decreases were small among foreign-born black people (–1.3%; 95% CI −2.6, −0.1), who were more likely to be female, have HIV infection attributable to high-risk heterosexual contact, be diagnosed with AIDS within 12 months of HIV diagnosis, and survive one year and three years after an AIDS diagnosis. Conclusions. The epidemiology of HIV infection differs for foreign-born black individuals compared with their native-born counterparts in the U.S. These data can be used to develop culturally appropriate and relevant HIV-prevention interventions.
Effectiveness of Pregnancy Check Boxes on Death Certificates in Identifying Pregnancy-Associated Mortality
Authors: Horon Isabelle L. , Cheng Diana 
Published: January 2017

Objectives. Information that would allow the identification of women who were pregnant at the time of death or within the year preceding death has historically been underreported on death certificates. As a result, the magnitude of the problem of pregnancy-associated mortality is underestimated. To improve the identification of these deaths, check boxes for reporting pregnancy status have been added to death certificates in a number of states. We used multiple external data sources to determine whether check boxes have been effective in identifying pregnancy-associated deaths. Methods. We collected data on deaths occurring among pregnant or recently pregnant women residing in Maryland during the years 2001–2008 using multiple data sources. We determined the percentage of these deaths that could be identified through check boxes placed on death certificates. Results. Overall, 64.5% of pregnancy-associated deaths were identified through pregnancy check boxes on death certificates, including 98.1% of maternal deaths—defined as deaths occurring during pregnancy or within 42 days of delivery from any cause related to or aggravated by the pregnancy or its management but not from accidental or incidental causes—and 46.7% of deaths from nonmaternal causes, such as homicide, suicide, accidents, and substance abuse. Conclusions. Check boxes on death certificates are effective in identifying pregnancy-associated deaths resulting from maternal causes. However, they are far less effective in identifying deaths resulting from nonmaternal causes, such as homicide, accidental death, and substance abuse, which represent three of the four leading causes of pregnancy-associated death in Maryland.
Evaluating Risk Factors and Possible Mediation Effects in Posttraumatic Depression and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Comorbidity
Authors: Chiu Sydney , Niles Justin K. , Webber Mayris P. , Zeig-Owens Rachel , Gustave Jackson , Lee Roy , Rizzotto Linda , Kelly Kerry J. , Cohen Hillel W. , Prezant David J. 
Published: January 2017

Objectives. On September 11, 2001 (9/11), attacks on the World Trade Center (WTC) killed 341 Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) firefighters and injured hundreds more. Previous WTC-related studies reported high rates of comorbid depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), identifying disability retirement, alcohol use, and early arrival at the WTC site as correlates. However, those studies did not evaluate risk factors that could have mediated the observed comorbidity. We identified unique risk factors for each condition in an effort to better understand comorbidity. Methods. We screened retired WTC-exposed firefighters using self-administered questionnaires including the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, the Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist, and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test. We performed regression analyses to compare independent predictors of elevated depression and PTSD risk, and also tested a mediation hypothesis. Results. From December 2005 to July 2007, 23% and 22% of 1,915 retirees screened positive for elevated depression and PTSD risk, respectively, with comorbidity >70%. Controlling for comorbidity, we identified unique risk factors for (7) depression: problem alcohol use and (2) PTSD: early arrival at the WTC site. Conclusions. Our data support the premise that PTSD and depression are different responses to trauma with unique risk factors. The data also suggest a hypothesis that PTSD mediates the relationship between early WTC arrival and depression, while depression mediates the relationship between alcohol use and PTSD, a more complex relationship than shown in previous studies. Clinicians should consider these factors when evaluating patients for depression and PTSD.
Review of Unintentional Non-Fire-Related Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Morbidity and Mortality in Florida, 1999–2007
Authors: Harduar-Morano Laurel , Watkins Sharon 
Published: January 2017

Objective. Previous Florida evaluations of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning have been disaster focused. The majority of prevention messages and risk-factor identification efforts have revolved around hurricane season (June-November). We evaluated the prevalence, risk factors, and causes of CO poisoning within Florida throughout the year to produce a more complete presentation of the burden of CO poisoning. Methods. We obtained data from death certificates, hospital discharge records, and emergency department records. We limited our analysis to unintentional poisonings, calculating rates for age, gender, race, and ethnicity, and reviewing poisoning chronology, location, and exposure situation. Results. From 1999 to 2007, 493 people were hospitalized, and 230 individuals died as a result of non-fire-related CO poisoning. From 2005 to 2007, 781 people visited emergency departments for non-fire-related CO poisoning. Rates of severe poisoning resulting in hospitalization or death were highest among the elderly (0.56 visits and 0.63 deaths per 100,000 Floridians). Acute poisoning rates were highest among people 25–34 years of age (2.48 visits per 100,000 Floridians). Poisonings were primarily due to motor vehicle exhaust (21%–69%) and generator exposure (12%–33%), and the majority (50%–70%) occurred within the home. A large number of poisonings (25%–29%) occurred during the winter months, outside of hurricane season. Conclusion. The findings of this study indicate a need for additional prevention strategies in conjunction with current activities to more effectively reduce the number of CO poisonings in Florida. Prevention activities should be conducted year-round, and additional strategies should include public awareness of the hazards of motor vehicle exhaust.
Mortality Reductions for Older Adults Differ by Race/Ethnicity and Gender since the Introduction of Adult and Pediatric Pneumococcal Vaccines
Authors: Soneji Samir , Metlay Joshua 
Published: January 2017

Objective. We determined the effectiveness of a 23-valent-polysaccharide pneumococcal vaccine (PPV-23) and pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV-7) in reducing adult pneumococcal mortality by comparing historically predicted declines in pneumococcal disease mortality with observed patterns since the introduction of PPV-23 and PCV-7, including analyses of age, gender, and racial/ethnic subgroups. Methods. We analyzed all deaths registered on U.S. death certificates reporting any site of pneumococcal infection (e.g., meningitis, sepsis, pneumonia, bacteremia, and peritonitis) from 1968 to 2006. We used time-series dynamic linear regression on annual pneumococcal mortality rates to determine the percentage reduction in post-1983 mortality rates for a given increase in PPV-23 vaccination rates and post-2000 mortality rates for a given increase in PCV-7 vaccination rates. Results. Pneumococcal mortality decreased well before the introduction of PPV-23 in 1983 and again before the introduction of PCV-7 in 2000. The level of PPV-23 vaccination was associated with a direct and significant reduction in adult mortality, especially white female adults ≥65 years of age. In contrast, the level of PCV-7 vaccination in the population was not associated with an indirect and significant reduction in pneumococcal mortality beyond the historical pace of decline. Conclusions. PPV-23 introduction was associated with a reduction in pneumococcal mortality among older adults ≥65 years of age beyond levels predicted by secular trends, whereas PCV-7 introduction was not. Mortality reduction was not uniformly experienced across the population, revealing the need for additional strategies to reduce pneumococcal mortality in older adults.
Primary Prevention of Lead Exposure: The Philadelphia Lead Safe Homes Study
Authors: Campbell Carla , Tran Mary , Gracely Edward , Starkey Naomi , Kersten Hans , Palermo Peter , Rothman Nancy , Line Laura , Hansen-Turton Tine 
Published: January 2017

Objective. Lead exposure in children can lead to neuropsychological impairment. This study tested whether primary prevention interventions in the newborn period prevent elevated blood lead levels (BLLs). Methods. The Philadelphia Lead Safe Homes (LSH) Study offered parental education, home evaluation, and lead remediation to the families of urban newborns. Households were randomized to a standard lead education group or maintenance education group. We conducted home visits at baseline, six months, and 12 months. To compare BLLs, we identified a matched comparison group. Results. We enrolled and randomized 314 newborns in the intervention component; 110 completed the study. There were few significant differences between the randomized groups. In the combined intervention groups, positive results on visual inspection declined from baseline to 12 months (97.0% to 90.6%, p=0.007). At baseline, 36.9% of homes were above the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's lead dust standard, compared with 26.9% at 12 months ( p=0.032), mainly due to a drop in windowsill dust levels. Both groups showed a significant increase in parental scores on a lead education test. Children in the intervention and matched control groups had similar geometric mean initial BLLs (2.6 vs. 2.7, p=0.477), but a significantly higher percentage of children in the intervention group had an initial blood lead screening compared with those in the matched group (88.9% vs. 84.4%, p=0.032). Conclusions. A study of primary prevention of lead exposure showed a higher blood lead screening rate for the combined intervention groups and mean BLLs at one year of age not statistically different from the comparison group. Most homes had lead hazards. Lead education significantly increased knowledge.
Nurse Case Management and Housing Interventions Reduce Allergen Exposures: The Milwaukee Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Breysse Jill , Wendt Jean , Dixon Sherry , Murphy Amy , Wilson Jonathan , Meurer John , Cohn Jennifer , Jacobs David E. 
Published: January 2017

Objective. We examined the impact of a combination of home environmental interventions and nurse case management services on total settled dust loadings and on allergen concentrations in the homes of asthmatic children. Methods. Using a randomized longitudinal controlled trial study design, we randomly assigned homes of asthmatic children in Milwaukee to either a control ( n=64) or an intervention ( n=57) group. Control group homes received a visual assessment, education, bed/pillow dust mite encasings, and treatment of lead-based paint hazards. The intervention group received these same services plus nurse case management that included tailored, individual asthma action plans, provision of minor home repairs, home cleaning using special vacuuming and wet washing, and integrated pest management. Dust vacuum samples were collected from measured surface areas of floors in the TV room, kitchen, and child's bedroom at baseline and at three-, six-, and 12-month follow-up visits. Dust loading (mass per surface area) is a means of measuring total dust and the total amount of allergen present. Results. For the intervention group, geometric mean dust loadings declined significantly from baseline (39 milligrams per square foot [mg/ft2]) to post-intervention (11 mg/ft2) ( p<0.001). Baseline dust loading, treatment group, visit, and season were significant predictors of follow-up dust loadings. Mean post-intervention dust loadings were 72% higher in the control group. The total amount of allergen in settled house dust declined significantly following the intervention because total dust loading declined; the concentration of allergens in settled dust did not change significantly. Conclusion. The combination of nurse case management and home environmental interventions promotes collaboration between health and housing professionals and is effective in reducing exposures to allergens in settled dust.
Hazards of Illicit Methamphetamine Production and Efforts at Reduction: Data from the Hazardous Substances Emergency Events Surveillance System
Authors: Melnikova Natalia , Welles Wanda Lizak , Wilburn Rebecca E. , Rice Nancy , Wu Jennifer , Stanbury Martha 
Published: January 2017

Objectives. Methamphetamine (meth) is a highly addictive drug of abuse that can easily be made in small illegal laboratories from household chemicals that are highly toxic and dangerous. Meth labs have been found in locations such as homes, outbuildings, motels, and cars. Its production endangers the “cook,” neighbors, responders, and the environment. This article describes surveillance data used to examine the emergence and public health impacts of illicit clandestine meth labs, as well as two states' efforts to thwart lab operations and prevent responder injuries. Methods. We analyzed data collected from 2001 to 2008 by 18 states participating in the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry's Hazardous Substances Emergency Events Surveillance (HSEES) Program to examine the occurrence and public health impacts of clandestine meth production. Results. HSEES data indicate that the majority of clandestine meth lab events occurred in residential areas. About 15% of meth lab events required evacuation. Nearly one-fourth of these events resulted in injuries, with 902 reported victims. Most victims (61%) were official responders, and one-third were members of the general public. Since 2004, with the implementation of local and federal laws and prevention activities, the number of meth lab events has declined. Increased education and training of first responders has led to decreased injuries among police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel. Conclusions. HSEES data provided a good data source for monitoring the emergence of domestic clandestine meth production, the associated public health effects, and the results of state and federal efforts to promote actions to address the problem.
Residential Light and Risk for Depression and Falls: Results from the LARES Study of Eight European Cities
Authors: Brown Mary Jean , Jacobs David E. 
Published: January 2017

Objectives. We examined the relationship between self-reported inadequate residential natural light and risk for depression or falls among adults aged 18 years or older. Methods. Generalized estimating equations were used to calculate the odds of depression or falls in participants with self-reported inadequate natural residential light vs. those reporting adequate light ( n=6,017) using data from the World Health Organizations Large Analysis and Review of European Housing and Health Survey, a large cross-sectional study of housing and health in representative populations from eight European cities. Results. Participants reporting inadequate natural light in their dwellings were 1.4 times (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2,1.7) as likely to report depression and 1.5 times (95% CI 1.2, 1.9) as likely to report a fall compared with those satisfied with their dwellings light. After adjustment for major confounders, the likelihood of depression changed slightly, while the likelihood of a fall increased to 2.5 (95% CI 1.5, 4.2). Conclusion. Self-reported inadequate light in housing is independently associated with depression and falls. Increasing light in housing, a relatively inexpensive intervention, may improve two distinct health conditions.
Poverty, Sprawl, and Restaurant Types Influence Body Mass Index of Residents in California Counties
Authors: Gregson Jennifer 
Published: January 2017

Objectives. This article examines the relationships between structural poverty (the proportion of people in a county living at ≤130% of the federal poverty level [FPL]), urban sprawl, and three types of restaurants (grouped as fast food, chain full service, and independent full service) in explaining body mass index (BMI) of individuals. Methods. Relationships were tested with two-tiered hierarchical models. Individual-level data, including the outcome variable of calculated BMI, were from the 2005, 2006, and 2007 California Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey ( n=14,205). County-level data ( n=33) were compiled from three sources. The 2000 U.S. Census provided the proportion of county residents living at ≤130% of FPL and county demographic descriptors. The sprawl index used came from the Smart Growth America Project. Fast-food, full-service chain, and full-service independently owned restaurants as proportions of the total retail food environment were constructed from a commercially available market research database from 2004. Results. In the analysis, county-level demographic characteristics lost significance and poverty had a consistent, robust association on BMI ( p<0.001). Sprawl demonstrated an additional, complementary association to county poverty ( p<0.001). Independent restaurants had a large, negative association to BMI ( p<0.001). The coefficients for chain and fast-food restaurants were large and positive ( p≤0.001), indicating that as the proportion of these restaurants in a county increases, so does BMI. Conclusions. This study demonstrates the important role of county poverty and urban sprawl toward understanding environmental influences on BMI. Using three categories of restaurants demonstrates different associations of full-service chain and independent restaurants, which are often combined in other research.
Validation of Selected Items on the 2003 U.S. Standard Certificate of Live Birth: New York City and Vermont
Authors: Dietz Patricia , Bombard Jennifer , Mulready-Ward Candace , Gauthier John , Sackoff Judith , Brozicevic Peggy , Gambatese Melissa , Nyland-Funke Michael , England Lucinda , Harrison Leslie , Farr Sherry 
Published: January 2017

Objective. We assessed the validity of selected items on the 2003 revised U.S. Standard Certificate of Live Birth to understand the accuracy of new and existing items. Methods. We calculated sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of select variables reported on the birth certificate using the medical record as the gold standard for a representative sample of live births in New York City ( n=603) and Vermont ( n=664) in 2009. Results. In both sites, sensitivity was excellent (>90%) for Medicaid coverage at delivery, any previous live births, and current method of delivery; sensitivity was moderate (70%–90%) for gestational diabetes; and sensitivity was poor (<70%) for premature rupture of the membranes and gestational hypertension. In both sites, PPV was excellent for Medicaid coverage, any previous live births, previous cesarean delivery, and current method of delivery, and poor for premature rupture of membranes. In both sites, almost all items had excellent (>90%) specificity and NPV. Conclusion. Further research is needed to determine how best to improve the quality of data on the birth certificate. Future revisions of the birth certificate may consider removing those items that have consistently proven difficult to report accurately.
Targeting the Use of Pooled HIV RNA Screening to Reduce Cost in Health Department STD Clinics: New York City, 2009–2011
Authors: Borges Christine M. , Pathela Preeti , Pirillo Robert , Blank Susan 
Published: January 2017

Objective. Staff at public New York City sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinics screen patients for acute HIV infection (AHI) using pooled nucleic acid amplification tests. AHI screening is expensive but important for populations at high risk of acquiring HIV. We analyzed if targeting AHI screening in STD clinics could reduce program costs while maintaining AHI case detection. Methods. From January 2009 through May 2010, we screened all patients with negative rapid HIV tests for AHI. Using risk information on cases detected during this universal screening period, we developed criteria for targeted AHI screening and compared case yields and testing costs during 12 months of universal screening (June 2009 through May 2010) vs. 12 months of targeted screening (June 2010 through May 2011). Results. During the defined period of universal screening, we identified 40 AHI cases, and during targeted screening, we identified 35 AHI cases. Because of targeting efforts, the number needed to test to find one AHI case dropped from 1,631 to 254. With targeted screening, it cost an average of $4,535 per case detected and 39.3 cases were detected per 10,000 specimens; using universal screening, $29,088 was spent per case detected and 6.1 cases were detected per 10,000 specimens processed. Conclusion. Targeted screening identified similar numbers of AHI cases as when screening all clinic patients seeking HIV testing, but at one-seventh the cost.