bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prenatal Care Use Among Selected Asian American Groups
Authors: Yu Stella M. , Alexander Greg R. , Schwalberg Renee , Kogan Michael D. 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. This study examined the predictors of 3 patterns of prenatal care use (no care, late initiation of care, and inadequate use after early initiation) for 4 Asian American ethnic groups in the United States. Methods. Single live births to US resident mothers of Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese ancestry (n = 273 604) were selected from the 1992–1996 US natality files. Logistic regression was used to analyze the effects of maternal characteristics on the 3 use measures. Results. Korean Americans and Vietnamese Americans had the lowest levels of prenatal care use. Young or single motherhood, high parity for age, and low educational attainment were the main risk factors for low use. Conclusions. Considerable variability exists in prenatal care use among Asian American ethnic groups.
HIV-Related Behaviors and Perceptions Among Adults in 25 States: 1997 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System
Authors: Holtzman Deborah , Bland Shayne D. , Lansky Amy , Mack Karin A. 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. To assess the level of HIV-related risk behavior among the general US adult population, we analyzed data from the first sexual behavior questions available for states to use with the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Methods. The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System is a state-specific, population-based, random telephone survey. In 1997, 25 states collected sexual behavior data. Annual prevalence estimates for selected behaviors were calculated and examined by sociodemographic characteristics. The correlation between actual and perceived HIV risk also was determined. Results. Most (77.1%) of the respondents reported just 1 sexual partner in the past year; 26.0% reported using a condom at last intercourse. Males, persons who were younger, and Blacks were more likely to report 2 or more partners but also more likely to report using a condom at last intercourse. Only 4.1% of the respondents reported a risk factor for HIV infection; 7.7% reported that they were at medium or high risk for HIV. Actual and perceived HIV risk were positively associated. Conclusions. Most US adults do not engage in HIV-related risk behavior; those that do are more likely to report protective behavior.
Promoting Stair Use in a US–Mexico Border Community
Authors: Coleman Karen J. , Gonzalez Eugenia C. 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. This study sought to determine whether a culturally relevant health message would promote stair use in a predominantly Hispanic community. Methods. Observations of stair, elevator, and escalator use were collected over a 6-month period at 4 sites throughout the city of El Paso, Tex. The efficacy of individual and family health promotion signs was tested. Results. Stair use increased in response to both individual and family promotion health messages, and use varied widely by intervention site. Conclusions. These results underscore the importance of considering the physical characteristics of the environments targeted for health promotion campaigns.
Limitations on the Use of a Single Screening Question to Measure Sedentary Behavior
Authors: Macera Caroline A. , Ham Sandra A. , Jones Deborah A. , Kimsey C. Dexter , Ainsworth Barbara E. , Neff Linda J. 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. This study explored the limitations of identifying sedentary individuals via an existing screening question in a state-based surveillance system. Methods. A national sample (n = 7529) of adults, selected by random-digit dialing between November 1999 and May 2000, responded about participation in leisure-time physical activity. Results. Of those who initially reported no leisure-time physical activity (25%), 85% were engaging in at least some activity, and 20% were engaging in enough moderate- or vigorous-intensity activity to meet health-related recommendations. Conclusions. Public health programs that use only 1 screening question to identify sedentary behavior may not be able to target physical activity messages effectively, especially if physical activity is defined to include a broad range of activities beyond sports.
A Population-Based Assessment of Human Rights Abuses Committed Against Ethnic Albanian Refugees From Kosovo
Authors: Iacopino Vincent , Frank Martina W. , Bauer Heidi M. , Keller Allen S. , Fink Sheri L. , Ford Doug , Pallin Daniel J. , Waldman Ronald 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. This study assessed patterns of displacement and human rights abuses among Kosovar refugees in Macedonia and Albania. Methods. Between April 19 and May 3, 1999, 1180 ethnic Albanian refugees living in 31 refugee camps and collective centers in Macedonia and Albania were interviewed. Results. The majority (68%) of participants reported that their families were directly expelled from their homes by Serb forces. Overall, 50% of participants saw Serb police or soldiers burning the houses of others, 16% saw Serb police or soldiers burn their own home, and 14% witnessed Serb police or soldiers killing someone. Large percentages of participants saw destroyed mosques, schools, or medical facilities. Thirty-one percent of respondents reported human rights abuses committed against their household members, including beatings, killings, torture, forced separation and disappearances, gunshot wounds, and sexual assault. Conclusions. The present findings confirm that Serb forces engaged in a systematic and brutal campaign to forcibly expel the ethnic Albanian population of Kosovo. In the course of these mass deportations, Serb forces committed widespread abuses of human rights against ethnic Albanians.
Retrospective Validation of a Surveillance System for Unexplained Illness and Death: New Haven County, Connecticut
Authors: Kluger Michael D. , Sofair Andre N. , Heye Constance J. , Meek James I. , Sodhi Rajesh K. , Hadler James L. 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. This study investigated retrospective validation of a prospective surveillance system for unexplained illness and death due to possibly infectious causes. Methods. A computerized search of hospital discharge data identified patients with potential unexplained illness and death due to possibly infectious causes. Medical records for such patients were reviewed for satisfaction of study criteria. Cases identified retrospectively were combined with prospectively identified cases to form a reference population against which sensitivity could be measured. Results. Retrospective validation was 41% sensitive, whereas prospective surveillance was 73% sensitive. The annual incidence of unexplained illness and death due to possibly infectious causes during 1995 and 1996 in the study county was conservatively estimated to range from 2.7 to 6.2 per 100 000 residents aged 1 to 49 years. Conclusions. Active prospective surveillance for unexplained illness and death due to possibly infectious causes is more sensitive than retrospective surveillance conducted through a published list of indicator codes. However, retrospective surveillance can be a feasible and much less labor-intensive alternative to active prospective surveillance when the latter is not possible or desired.
An Outbreak of Syphilis in Alabama Prisons: Correctional Health Policy and Communicable Disease Control
Authors: Wolfe Mitchell I. , Xu Fujie , Patel Priti , O'Cain Michael , Schillinger Julia A. , St. Louis Michael E. , Finelli Lyn 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. After syphilis outbreaks were reported at 3 Alabama State men's prisons in early 1999, we conducted an investigation to evaluate risk factors for syphilis infection and describe patterns of syphilis transmission. Methods. We reviewed medical, patient interview, and prison transfer records and documented sexual networks. Presumptive source cases were identified. Odds of exposure to unscreened jail populations and transfer from other prisons were calculated for case patients at 1 prison. Results. Thirty-nine case patients with early syphilis were identified from 3 prisons. Recent jail exposure (odds ratio [OR] = 8.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.3, 158.7, P = .14) and prison transfer (OR = 32.0, 95% CI = 1.6, 1668.1, P < .01) were associated with being a source case patient. Conclusions. Probable sources of syphilis introduction into and transmission within prisons included mixing of prisoners with unscreened jail populations, transfer of infected inmates between prisons, and multiple concurrent sexual partnerships. Reducing sexual transmission of disease in correctional settings is a public health priority and will require innovative prevention strategies.
Acculturation and Leisure-Time Physical Inactivity in Mexican American Adults: Results From NHANES III, 1988–1994
Authors: Crespo Carlos J. , Smit Ellen , Carter-Pokras Olivia , Andersen Ross 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. This study examined the relationship between acculturation and leisure-time physical inactivity among Mexican American adults. Methods. Using data from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, we estimated the prevalence of physical inactivity according to place of birth and language used at home. Results. Spanish-speaking Mexican Americans had a higher prevalence of physical inactivity during leisure time than those who spoke mostly English, independent of place of birth. Conclusions. Acculturation seems to be positively associated with participation in leisure-time physical activity.
Adolescent Sexual Orientation and Suicide Risk: Evidence From a National Study
Authors: Russell Stephen T. , Joyner Kara 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. Sexual orientation has been a debated risk factor for adolescent suicidality over the past 20 years. This study examined the link between sexual orientation and suicidality, using data that are nationally representative and that include other critical youth suicide risk factors.Methods. Data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health were examined. Survey logistic regression was used to control for sample design effects.Results. There is a strong link between adolescent sexual orientation and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The strong effect of sexual orientation on suicidal thoughts is mediated by critical youth suicide risk factors, including depression, hopelessness, alcohol abuse, recent suicide attempts by a peer or a family member, and experiences of victimization.Conclusions. The findings provide strong evidence that sexual minority youths are more likely than their peers to think about and attempt suicide.
Beyond Assumptions of Negligible Risk: Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Women Who Have Sex With Women
Authors: Bauer Greta R. , Welles Seth L. 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. This study evaluated the association of female–female sexual behavior with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Methods. Female participants (n = 286) were recruited from the Twin Cities Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender Pride Festival. Logistic regression was used to examine the association between female–female sexual behavior and STDs. Results. Women in all partner history groups, including 13% of women with only female partners, reported a history of STD. Increased sexual exposures with women predicted an increase in the likelihood of STDs after known risk factors had been controlled. Neither number of female partners nor number of exposures was associated with obtaining regular STD testing. Conclusions. The risk of STDs through female–female sexual exposure is not negligible. Nevertheless, patterns of STD testing do not reflect this risk.
An Intervention for Parents With AIDS and Their Adolescent Children
Authors: Rotheram-Borus Mary Jane , Lee Martha B. , Gwadz Marya , Draimin Barbara 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. This study evaluated an intervention designed to improve behavioral and mental health outcomes among adolescents and their parents with AIDS. Methods. Parents with AIDS (n = 307) and their adolescent children (n = 412) were randomly assigned to an intensive intervention or a standard care control condition. Ninety-five percent of subjects were reassessed at least once annually over 2 years. Results. Adolescents in the intensive intervention condition reported significantly lower levels of emotional distress, of multiple problem behaviors, of conduct problems, and of family-related stressors and higher levels of self-esteem than adolescents in the standard care condition. Parents with AIDS in the intervention condition also reported significantly lower levels of emotional distress and multiple problem behaviors. Coping style, levels of disclosure regarding serostatus, and formation of legal custody plans were similar across intervention conditions. Conclusions. Interventions can reduce the long-term impact of parents' HIV status on themselves and their children.
Challenges Associated With Increased Survival Among Parents Living With HIV
Authors: Lee Martha , Rotheram-Borus Mary Jane 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. This study examined sociodemographic and psychosocial factors that predict survival among parents living with HIV. Methods. Parents with HIV (n = 307) were recruited from 1993 to 1995 in New York City and repeatedly assessed. Survival was monitored among the sample (81% mothers; 45% Latino, 34% African American). Results. Over a median period of 28 months (range = 0–53 months), 44% (n = 135) of the parents died. Having an AIDS diagnosis and being African American were associated with earlier death. Sex, age, and financial status were not related to survival. Parents who survived had initially higher levels of anxiety that decreased over time; in contrast, parents who died reported initially lower, but constant, levels of anxiety over time. After HIV diagnostic status was controlled for, it was found that parents who reported having more children, using a coping style of seeking social support, and being sexually active at baseline survived longer. Conclusions. The counterintuitive findings raise hypotheses regarding the role of change and responsibilities in the survival of parents with HIV.
Reenergizing Public Health Through Precaution
Authors: Kriebel David , Tickner Joel 
Published: November 2008

The precautionary principle has provoked a spirited debate among environmentalists worldwide, but it is equally relevant to public health and shares much with primary prevention. Its central components are (1) taking preventive action in the face of uncertainty; (2) shifting the burden of proof to the proponents of an activity; (3) exploring a wide range of alternatives to possibly harmful actions; and (4) increasing public participation in decision making. Precaution is relevant to public health, because it can help to prevent unintended consequences of well-intentioned public health interventions by ensuring a more thorough assessment of the problems and proposed solutions. It can also be a positive force for change. Three aspects are stressed: promoting the search for safer technologies, encouraging greater democracy and openness in public health policy, and stimulating reevaluation of the methods of public health science.
The Precautionary Principle and Electric and Magnetic Fields
Authors: Jamieson Dale , Wartenberg Daniel 
Published: November 2008

Current environmental regulation represents a paternalistic policy, more concerned to avoid false positives than false negatives, limiting opportunities for individuals to make choices between risk-avoidance and risk-taking alternatives. For example, many exposures to magnetic fields could be reduced at little or no cost but are not considered seriously, owing to the uncertainty of risk and the concern to avoid false positives. Even though precautionary approaches that focus on avoiding false negatives often do not lead to adverse economic consequences or irrational choices, such approaches usually are not taken. The value of autonomy and the proper role of governmental paternalism with respect to environmental policy need to be considered more carefully in environmental decision making.
Informational Privacy and the Public's Health: The Model State Public Health Privacy Act
Authors: Gostin Lawrence O. , Hodge James G. , Valdiserri Ronald O. 
Published: November 2008

Protecting public health requires the acquisition, use, and storage of extensive health-related information about individuals. The electronic accumulation and exchange of personal data promises significant public health benefits but also threatens individual privacy; breaches of privacy can lead to individual discrimination in employment, insurance, and government programs. Individuals concerned about privacy invasions may avoid clinical or public health tests, treatments, or research. Although individual privacy protections are critical, comprehensive federal privacy protections do not adequately protect public health data, and existing state privacy laws are inconsistent and fragmented. The Model State Public Health Privacy Act provides strong privacy safeguards for public health data while preserving the ability of state and local public health departments to act for the common good.
Estimation of Health Benefits From a Local Living Wage Ordinance
Authors: Bhatia Rajiv , Katz Mitchell 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. This study estimated the magnitude of health improvements resulting from a proposed living wage ordinance in San Francisco. Methods. Published observational models of the relationship of income to health were applied to predict improvements in health outcomes associated with proposed wage increases in San Francisco. Results. With adoption of a living wage of $11.00 per hour, we predict decreases in premature death from all causes for adults aged 24 to 44 years working full-time in families whose current annual income is $20 000 (for men, relative hazard [RH] = 0.94, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.92, 0.97; for women, RH = 0.96, 95% CI = 0.95, 0.98). Improvements in subjectively rated health and reductions in the number of days sick in bed, in limitations of work and activities of daily living, and in depressive symptoms were also predicted, as were increases in daily alcohol consumption. For the offspring of full-time workers currently earning $20 000, a living wage predicts an increase of 0.25 years (95% CI = 0.20, 0.30) of completed education, increased odds of completing high school (odds ratio = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.20, 1.49), and a reduced risk of early childbirth (RH = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.69, 0.86). Conclusions. A living wage in San Francisco is associated with substantial health improvement.
Keeping the Unemployed Healthy: The Effect of Means-Tested and Entitlement Benefits in Britain, Germany, and the United States
Authors: Rodriguez Eunice 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. Although considerable evidence about the health effects of unemployment exists, little is known about the possible protective effects of various social interventions. This study examined the role that means-tested and entitlement programs could have in ameliorating the health impact of unemployment in Britain, Germany, and the United States. Methods. Logistic regression models were used to analyze panel data from Britain (1991–1993), Germany (1991–1993), and the United States (1985–1987) available in the Household Panel Comparability Project database. The analysis included 8726 respondents from Britain, 11 086 from Germany, and 11 668 from the United States. The health-dependent variable used was a single measure of perceived health status. Results. Evidence was found of differences in perceived health status between groups of unemployed people characterized by the types of benefits they receive. When socioeconomic characteristics and previous health and employment status are controlled for, means-tested benefits do not seem sufficient to reduce the impact of unemployment on health. Conclusions. Monitoring the possible health effects of changes in public assistance benefits should be given priority in the research and political agenda.
Coverage of Smoking Cessation Treatment by Union Health and Welfare Funds
Authors: Barbeau Elizabeth M. , Li Yi , Sorensen Glorian , Conlan Kathleen M. , Youngstrom Richard , Emmons Karen 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. This study determined the level of insurance coverage for smoking cessation treatment and factors associated with coverage among health and welfare funds affiliated with a large labor union. Methods. A self-administered written survey was mailed to fund and union officials. Analyses were conducted by χ2 tests. Results. Twenty-nine percent of funds provided coverage for some type of smoking cessation treatment, with the odds of coverage significantly increased among funds whose administrators reported having received members' requests for smoking cessation treatment in the past year (odds ratio = 4.9, P = .05). Conclusions. Coverage for smoking cessation services is low, comparable to coverage offered by other health insurers. Interventions with union members and fund officials are needed to provide union members with access to affordable and effective smoking cessation treatments.
Psychologic Distress and Natural Menopause: A Multiethnic Community Study
Authors: Bromberger Joyce T. , Meyer Peter M. , Kravitz Howard M. , Sommer Barbara , Cordal Adriana , Powell Lynda , Ganz Patricia A. , Sutton-Tyrrell Kim 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. This study examined the association between psychologic distress and natural menopause in a community sample of African American, White, Chinese, Hispanic, and Japanese women participating in a national women's health study. Methods. A cohort of 16 065 women aged 40 to 55 years provided information on menstrual regularity in the previous year, psychosocial factors, health, and somatic–psychologic symptoms. Psychologic distress was defined as feeling tense, depressed, and irritable in the previous 2 weeks. Results. Rates of psychologic distress were highest in early perimenopause (28.9%) and lowest in premenopause (20.9%) and postmenopause (22%). In comparison with premenopausal women, early perimenopausal women were at a greater risk of distress, with and without adjustment for vasomotor and sleep symptoms and covariates. Odds of distress were significantly higher for Whites than for the other racial/ethnic groups. Conclusions. Psychologic distress is associated with irregular menses in midlife. It is important to determine whether distress is linked to alterations in hormone levels and to what extent a mood–hormone relationship may be influenced by socioeconomic and cultural factors.
Modeling the Cost and Outcomes of Pharmacist-Prescribed Emergency Contraception
Authors: Marciante Kristin D. , Gardner Jacqueline S. , Veenstra David L. , Sullivan Sean D. 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. This study investigated the effect on the risk and cost of unintended pregnancies of emergency contraceptive pills obtained directly from a pharmacist. Methods. We used a decision model to compare outcomes for private and public payers following unprotected intercourse from. Results. Obtaining emergency contraceptive pills from a pharmacy, compared with obtaining them from a physician or clinic, resulted in a $158 (95% confidence interval (CI) = $76, $269) reduction in costs for private payers and a $48 (95% CI = $16, $93) reduction for public payers. Conclusions. Our findings suggest that under varied assumptions, obtaining emergency contraceptive pills directly from a pharmacist reduces the number of unintended pregnancies and is cost saving.