bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
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.
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.