bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Endometrial Cancer: Socioeconomic Status and Racial/Ethnic Differences in Stage at Diagnosis, Treatment, and Survival
Authors: Madison Terri , Schottenfeld David , James Sherman A. , Schwartz Ann G. , Gruber Stephen B. 
Published: December 2008

Objective. We evaluated the association between socioeconomic status and racial/ ethnic differences in endometrial cancer stage at diagnosis, treatment, and survival. Methods. We conducted a population-based study among 3656 women. Results. Multivariate analyses showed that either race/ethnicity or income, but not both, was associated with advanced-stage disease. Age, stage at diagnosis, and income were independent predictors of hysterectomy. African American ethnicity, increased age, aggressive histology, poor tumor grade, and advanced-stage disease were associated with increased risk for death; higher income and hysterectomy were associated with decreased risk for death. Conclusions. Lower income was associated with advanced-stage disease, lower likelihood of receiving a hysterectomy, and lower rates of survival. Earlier diagnosis and removal of barriers to optimal treatment among lower-socioeconomic status women will diminish racial/ethnic differences in endometrial cancer survival.
Experiences of Racism Among African American Parents and the Mental Health of Their Preschool-Aged Children
Authors: Caughy Margaret O'Brien , O'Campo Patricia J. , Muntaner Carles 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. We examined the relationship between parents’ experiences of racism and children’s well-being and the influence of the residential neighborhood characteristics on this relationship. Methods. African American families were recruited from Baltimore neighborhoods. Parental measures included racism experiences and coping. Neighborhood measures included demographic characteristics, social cohesion, and social climate. Children’s mental health was assessed with the Child Behavior Checklist. Analysis was performed with multilevel modeling. Results. Parents who denied experiences of racism also reported higher rates of behavior problems among their preschool-aged children. For families living in neighborhoods characterized by fear of victimization, parents who actively coped with racism experiences by confronting the person involved or taking some sort of action in response to racism reported lower rates of anxiety and depression for their preschool-aged children. Conclusions. Experiences of and responses to racism among African American parents have important effects on the well-being of their young children.
Self-Reported Experiences of Racial Discrimination and Black–White Differences in Preterm and Low-Birthweight Deliveries: The CARDIA Study
Authors: Mustillo Sarah , Krieger Nancy , Gunderson Erica P. , Sidney Stephen , McCreath Heather , Kiefe Catarina I. 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. We examined the effects of self-reported experiences of racial discrimination on Black–White differences in preterm (less than 37 weeks gestation) and low-birthweight (less than 2500 g) deliveries. Methods. Using logistic regression models, we analyzed data on 352 births among women enrolled in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults Study. Results. Among Black women, 50% of those with preterm deliveries and 61% of those with low-birthweight infants reported having experienced racial discrimination in at least 3 situations; among White women, the corresponding percentages were 5% and 0%. The unadjusted odds ratio for preterm delivery among Black versus White women was 2.54 (95% confidence interval [CI]=1.33, 4.85), but this value decreased to 1.88 (95% CI=0.85, 4.12) after adjustment for experiences of racial discrimination and to 1.11 (95% CI=0.51, 2.41) after additional adjustment for alcohol and tobacco use, depression, education, and income. The corresponding odds ratios for low birthweight were 4.24 (95% CI=1.31, 13.67), 2.11 (95% CI=0.75, 5.93), and 2.43 (95% CI=0.79, 7.42). Conclusions. Self-reported experiences of racial discrimination were associated with preterm and low-birthweight deliveries, and such experiences may contribute to Black–White disparities in perinatal outcomes.
Socioeconomic Position and Hormone Replacement Therapy Use: Explaining the Discrepancy in Evidence From Observational and Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Lawlor Debbie A , Davey Smith George , Ebrahim Shah 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. We assessed the association between life-course socioeconomic status or position (SEP) and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Methods. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 4286 women aged 60 to 79 years. Results. Women experiencing adverse socioeconomic circumstances across the life course were less likely to have used HRT. The associations of childhood socioeconomic measures with HRT use were independent of adult SEP, behavioral risk factors, and physiological risk factors for heart disease. Conclusions. SEP from across the life course is associated with HRT use. Because the association between early life SEP and HRT is not fully explained by adult risk factors, residual confounding (which is not captured by adjustment for adult variables only) may explain some of the disparity between observational studies and randomized controlled trials in this area.
Prevalence of Smoking in 8 Countries of the Former Soviet Union: Results From the Living Conditions, Lifestyles and Health Study
Authors: Gilmore Anna , Pomerleau Joceline , McKee Martin , Rose Richard , Haerpfer Christian W. , Rotman David , Tumanov Sergej 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. We sought to provide comparative data on smoking habits in countries of the former Soviet Union. Methods. We conducted cross-sectional surveys in 8 former Soviet countries with representative national samples of the population 18 years or older. Results. Smoking rates varied among men, from 43.3% to 65.3% among the countries examined. Results showed that smoking among women remains uncommon in Armenia, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, and Moldova (rates of 2.4%–6.3%). In Belarus, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Russia, rates were higher (9.3%–15.5%). Men start smoking at significantly younger ages than women, smoke more cigarettes per day, and are more likely to be nicotine dependent. Conclusions. Smoking rates among men in these countries have been high for some time and remain among the highest in the world. Smoking rates among women have increased from previous years and appear to reflect transnational tobacco company activity.
Appalachian Teen Smokers: Not On Tobacco 15 Months Later
Authors: Horn Kimberly A. , Dino Geri A. , Kalsekar Iftekhar D. , Fernandes Ancilla W. 
Published: December 2008

High school smokers from 2 central Appalachian states received the American Lung Association’s 10-session Not On Tobacco (N-O-T) program or a 15-minute brief self-help intervention. Our study compared the efficacy of N-O-T with that of the brief intervention by examining group differences in the 15-month-postbaseline (12-month-postprogram) smoking quit rates. N-O-T youths had higher overall quit rates. Review of end-of-program (3-month-postbaseline) and 3-month-postprogram (6-month-postbaseline) follow-up data showed state-level differences and positive cessation trends over time, regardless of treatment intensity. Quit rates were lower than rates found in other N-O-T studies of nonrural youths, suggesting that Appalachian youths are a recalcitrant smoking sample. Findings suggest that N-O-T is one option for long-term smoking cessation among rural teens.
Working Class Matters: Socioeconomic Disadvantage, Race/Ethnicity, Gender, and Smoking in NHIS 2000
Authors: Barbeau Elizabeth M. , Krieger Nancy , Soobader Mah-Jabeen 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. We sought to describe the burden of smoking on the US population, using diverse socioeconomic measures. Methods. We analyzed data from the 2000 National Health Interview Survey. Results. Overall, the prevalence of current smoking was greatest among persons in—and independently associated with—working class jobs, low educational level, and low income. Attempts to quit showed no socioeconomic gradient, while success in quitting was greatest among those with the most socioeconomic resources. These patterns held in most but not all race/ethnicity–gender groups. Finer resolution of smoking patterns was obtained using a relational UK occupational measure, compared to the skill-based measure commonly used in US studies. Conclusions. Reducing social disparities in smoking requires attention to the complexities of class along with race/ethnicity and gender.
Acculturation and Tobacco Use Among Chinese Americans
Authors: Shelley Donna , Fahs Marianne , Scheinmann Roberta , Swain Susan , Qu Jiaojie , Burton Dee 
Published: December 2008

Objectives: We examined the relationship between acculturation and tobacco use behaviors among Chinese Americans.Methods: Using a Chinese-language instrument based on validated questions from several national surveys, we conducted in-person, household-based interviews with 712 representative adults aged 18–74 years.Results: Observed smoking prevalence was 29% for men and 4% for women. Predictors of smoking cessation included being 35 years and older and having a high level of tobacco-related knowledge. Acculturation was positively associated with a history of never smoking, as was being younger than 35 years and having a high level of tobacco-related knowledge.Conclusions: Acculturation was positively associated with never smoking among men but not with smoking cessation. However, knowledge of tobacco-related health risks was associated with both. Results indicate a need for language-specific educational interventions.
Decrease in the Prevalence of Environmental Tobacco Smoke Exposure in the Home During the 1990s in Families With Children
Authors: Soliman Soheil , Pollack Harold A. , Warner Kenneth E. 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. This study explored correlates with and changes in the prevalence of environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure of children in the home. Methods. We used multiple logistic regression to explore ETS exposures as reported in the 1992 and 2000 National Health Interview Survey. Results. ETS exposure in homes with children declined from 35.6% to 25.1% (P < .001) between 1992 and 2000, whereas smoking prevalence declined 26.5% to 23.3%. Home ETS exposures were more prevalent among non-Hispanic Whites than among African Americans (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.702; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.614, 0.802), Asian Americans (AOR = 0.534; 95% CI = 0.378, 0.754), and Hispanics (AOR = 0.388; 95% CI = 0.294, 0.389). Exposures declined across all groups, with greater gains in higher education and income groups. Conclusions. Home ETS exposure declined sharply between 1992 and 2000, more than would be predicted by the decline in adult smoking prevalence.
Progression to Established Smoking Among US Youths
Authors: Mowery Paul D. , Farrelly Matthew C. , Haviland M. Lyndon , Gable Julia M. , Wells Henry E. 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. Our study presents national estimates of the proportion of youths in each of 7 stages of smoking and investigates the associations between risk/protective factors and progression to established smoking. Methods. We analyzed data from the 1999 and 2000 National Youth Tobacco Surveys. Results. In 1999 and 2000, 48.6% of US adolescents had at least experimented with tobacco, and 7.8% were established smokers. Important correlates of progression to established smoking included parental advice not to smoke, antismoking lessons in school, susceptibility to tobacco industry advertising and promotion, peer smoking, and exposure to smoking at home. Conclusions. Interventions to stop adolescent progression to established smoking should target susceptible never smokers and early experimenters as well as those in later stages of smoking.
Sample Size Estimation in Research With Dependent Measures and Dichotomous Outcomes
Authors: Delucchi Kevin L. 
Published: December 2008

I reviewed sample estimation methods for research designs involving nonindependent data and a dichotomous response variable to examine the importance of proper sample size estimation and the need to align methods of sample size estimation with planned methods of statistical analysis. Examples and references to published literature are provided in this article. When the method of sample size estimation is not in concert with the method of planned analysis, poor estimates may result. The effects of multiple measures over time also need to be considered. Proper sample size estimation is often overlooked. Alignment of the sample size estimation method with the planned analysis method, especially in studies involving nonindependent data, will produce appropriate estimates.
Achieving National Health Objectives: The Impact on Life Expectancy and on Healthy Life Expectancy
Authors: Pamuk Elsie R. , Wagener Diane K. , Molla Michael T. 
Published: December 2008

Our study quantifies the impact of achieving specific Healthy People 2010 targets and of eliminating racial/ethnic health disparities on summary measures of health. We used life table methods to calculate gains in life expectancy and healthy life expectancy that would result from achievement of Healthy People 2010 objectives or of current mortality rates in the Asian/Pacific Islander (API) population. Attainment of Healthy People 2010 mortality targets would increase life expectancy by 2.8 years, and reduction of populationwide mortality rates to current API rates would add 4.1 years. Healthy life expectancy would increase by 5.8 years if Healthy People 2010 mortality and assumed morbidity targets were attained and by 8.1 years if API mortality and activity limitation rates were attained. Achievement of specific Healthy People 2010 targets would produce significant increases in longevity and health, and elimination of racial/ethnic health disparities could result in even larger gains.
On the Classification of Population Health Measurements
Authors: McDowell Ian , Spasoff Robert A. , Kristjansson Betsy 
Published: December 2008

Summary measures of population health, such as health-adjusted life expectancy, are increasingly being used to monitor the health status of regions and to evaluate public health interventions. Such measures are based on aggregated indicators of individual health and summarize health in a population. They describe population health status but have limitations in analytic studies of population health. We propose a broader framework for population health measurement. This classifies indicators according to their application (descriptive, prognostic, or explanatory), according to the conception of population (as an aggregate or a dynamic entity), and according to the underlying model of health. This approach extends the measurement repertoire to include indicators of the health of a population.
An Outcome Evaluation of the SOS Suicide Prevention Program
Authors: Aseltine Robert H. , DeMartino Robert 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. We examined the effectiveness of the Signs of Suicide (SOS) prevention program in reducing suicidal behavior. Methods. Twenty-one hundred students in 5 high schools in Columbus, Ga, and Hartford, Conn, were randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. Self-administered questionnaires were completed by students in both groups approximately 3 months after program implementation. Results. Significantly lower rates of suicide attempts and greater knowledge and more adaptive attitudes about depression and suicide were observed among students in the intervention group. The modest changes in knowledge and attitudes partially explained the beneficial effects of the program. Conclusions. SOS is the first school-based suicide prevention program to demonstrate significant reductions in self-reported suicide attempts.
Childhood Overweight in a New York City WIC Population
Authors: Nelson Jennifer A. , Chiasson Mary Ann , Ford Viola 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. We estimated the prevalence of overweight in a population of young children enrolled in a New York City Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children. Methods. Administrative and survey data were collected from a sample of enrolled families. Body mass index (BMI) of 557 children aged 2, 3, and 4 years was compared by sociodemographic and nutrition characteristics. Results. Forty percent of the children were overweight or at risk for overweight (BMI ≥ 85th percentile). Compared with other racial/ethnic groups combined, Hispanic children were more than twice as likely (odds ratio = 2.6; 95% confidence interval = 1.8, 3.8) to be overweight or at risk for overweight. Two-year-olds were less likely to be overweight than 3- and 4-year-olds. Conclusions. Interventions to address childhood overweight should be culturally specific and target very young children.
Measuring the Environment for Friendliness Toward Physical Activity: A Comparison of the Reliability of 3 Questionnaires
Authors: Brownson Ross C. , Chang Jen Jen , Eyler Amy A. , Ainsworth Barbara E. , Kirtland Karen A. , Saelens Brian E. , Sallis James F. 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. We tested the reliability of 3 instruments that assessed social and physical environments. Methods. We conducted a test–retest study among US adults (n = 289). We used telephone survey methods to measure suitableness of the perceived (vs objective) environment for recreational physical activity and nonmotorized transportation. Results. Most questions in our surveys that attempted to measure specific characteristics of the built environment showed moderate to high reliability. Questions about the social environment showed lower reliability than those that assessed the physical environment. Certain blocks of questions appeared to be selectively more reliable for urban or rural respondents. Conclusions. Despite differences in content and in response formats, all 3 surveys showed evidence of reliability, and most items are now ready for use in research and in public health surveillance.
Socioeconomic Barriers to Informed Decisionmaking Regarding Maternal Serum Screening for Down Syndrome: Results of the French National Perinatal Survey of 1998
Authors: Khoshnood Babak , Blondel Béatrice , De Vigan Catherine , Bréart Gérard 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. We sought to evaluate socioeconomic disparities in serum screening for Down syndrome and assess whether such disparities are more likely to reflect limits in access or information or, rather, informed decisionmaking. Methods. A nationally representative sample of 12 869 French women completed interviews after giving birth. Results. We found substantial disparities in the likelihood of (1) women not being offered screening, (2) screening not being offered as a result of late prenatal care, and (3) women not knowing whether or not they had undergone screening. Except in the case of nationality, there was essentially no evidence of differences in refusal of testing. Conclusions. Rather than representing informed decisionmaking, socioeconomic disparities in screening for Down syndrome are mostly due to limits in access or to information.
Raised Speed Limits, Speed Spillover, Case-Fatality Rates, and Road Deaths in Israel: A 5-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Richter Elihu D. , Barach Paul , Friedman Lee , Krikler Samuel , Israeli Abraham 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. We assessed the 5-year, nationwide impact on road deaths of the raise in the speed limit (November 1, 1993) on 3 major interurban highways in Israel from 90 to 100 kph. Methods. We compared before–after trends in deaths as well as case fatality—an outcome independent of exposure (defined as vehicle-kilometers traveled). Results. After the raise, speeds rose by 4.5%–9.1%. Over 5 years, there was a sustained increase in deaths (15%) and case fatality rates (38%) on all interurban roads. Corresponding increases in deaths (13%) and case fatality (24%) on urban roads indicated “speed spillover.” Conclusions. Immediate increases in case fatality predicted and tracked the sustained increase in deaths from increased speeds of impact. Newtonian fourth power models predicted the effects of “small” increases in speed on large rises in case fatality rates. Countermeasures and congestion reduced the impact on deaths and case-fatality rates by more than half.
Knee Pain and Driving Duration: A Secondary Analysis of the Taxi Drivers’ Health Study
Authors: Chen Jiu-Chiaun , Dennerlein Jack T. , Shih Tung-Sheng , Chen Chiou-Jong , Cheng Yawen , Chang Wushou P. , Ryan Louise M. , Christiani David C. 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. We explored a postulated association between daily driving time and knee pain. Methods. We used data from the Taxi Drivers’ Health Study to estimate 1-year prevalence of knee pain as assessed by the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire. Results. Among 1242 drivers, the prevalence of knee pain, stratified by duration of daily driving (≤ 6, > 6 through 8, > 8 through 10, and > 10 hours), was 11%, 17%, 19%, and 22%, respectively. Compared with driving 6 or fewer hours per day, the odds ratio of knee pain prevalence for driving more than 6 hours per day was 2.52 (95% confidence interval = 1.36, 4.65) after we adjusted for socioeconomic, work-related, and personal factors in the multiple logistic regression. Conclusions. The dose-related association between driving duration and knee pain raises concerns about work-related knee joint disorders among professional drivers.
Somali and Oromo Refugees: Correlates of Torture and Trauma History
Authors: Jaranson James M. , Butcher James , Halcon Linda , Johnson David Robert , Robertson Cheryl , Savik Kay , Spring Marline , Westermeyer Joseph 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. This cross-sectional, community-based, epidemiological study characterized Somali and Ethiopian (Oromo) refugees in Minnesota to determine torture prevalence and associated problems. Methods. A comprehensive questionnaire was developed, then administered by trained ethnic interviewers to a nonprobability sample of 1134. Measures assessed torture techniques; traumatic events; and social, physical, and psychological problems, including posttraumatic stress symptoms. Results. Torture prevalence ranged from 25% to 69% by ethnicity and gender, higher than usually reported. Unexpectedly, women were tortured as often as men. Torture survivors had more health problems, including posttraumatic stress. Conclusions. This study highlights the need to recognize torture in African refugees, especially women, identify indicators of posttraumatic stress in torture survivors, and provide additional resources to care for tortured refugees.
Gender Differences in Long-Term Health Consequences of Physical Abuse of Children: Data From a Nationally Representative Survey
Authors: Thompson Martie P. , Kingree J. B. , Desai Sujata 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. This study investigated the effects of physical abuse in childhood on health problems in adulthood and assessed gender differences in these associations.Methods. We used data from 8000 men and 8000 women who were interviewed in the National Violence Against Women Survey. We used multivariate logistic regression to test for main and interactive effects and conducted post hoc probing of significant moderational effects.Results. Men were more likely than women to have experienced physical abuse during childhood. Whereas abuse had negative consequences for both boys and girls, it was generally more detrimental for girls.Conclusions. Findings suggest the need to consider gender differences and long-term adverse health consequences in the development of intervention strategies to address physical abuse in childhood.