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Luke DA, Tsai E, Carothers BJ, Malone S, Prusaczyk B, Combs TB, Vogel MT, Neal JW, Neal ZP. Introducing SoNHR-Reporting guidelines for Social Networks In Health Research. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285236. [PMID: 38096166 PMCID: PMC10721040 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The overall goal of this work is to produce a set of recommendations (SoNHR-Social Networks in Health Research) that will improve the reporting and dissemination of social network concepts, methods, data, and analytic results within health sciences research. METHODS This study used a modified-Delphi approach for recommendation development consistent with best practices suggested by the EQUATOR health sciences reporting guidelines network. An initial set of 28 reporting recommendations was developed by the author team. A group of 67 (of 147 surveyed) experienced network and health scientists participated in an online feedback survey. They rated the clarity and importance of the individual recommendations, and provided qualitative feedback on the coverage, usability, and dissemination opportunities of the full set of recommendations. After examining the feedback, a final set of 18 recommendations was produced. RESULTS The final SoNHR reporting guidelines are comprised of 18 recommendations organized within five domains: conceptualization (how study research questions are linked to network conceptions or theories), operationalization (how network science portions of the study are defined and operationalized), data collection & management (how network data are collected and managed), analyses & results (how network results are analyzed, visualized, and reported), and ethics & equity (how network-specific human subjects, equity, and social justice concerns are reported). We also present a set of exemplar published network studies which can be helpful for seeing how to apply the SoNHR recommendations in research papers. Finally, we discuss how different audiences can use these reporting guidelines. CONCLUSIONS These are the first set of formal reporting recommendations of network methods in the health sciences. Consistent with EQUATOR goals, these network reporting recommendations may in time improve the quality, consistency, and replicability of network science across a wide variety of important health research areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas A Luke
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Edward Tsai
- Office of Community Engagement and Health Equity, University of Illinois Cancer Center, University of Illinois-Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Bobbi J Carothers
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Sara Malone
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Beth Prusaczyk
- Institute for Informatics, Data Science, and Biostatistics, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Todd B Combs
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Mia T Vogel
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Watling Neal
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States of America
| | - Zachary P Neal
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States of America
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Namwase AS, Gyimah EA, Carothers BJ, Combs TB, Harris JK. Changes in Harm Perception for E-Cigarettes Among Youth in the United States, 2014-2019. Am J Health Promot 2022; 37:471-477. [PMID: 36263457 DOI: 10.1177/08901171221133805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the trend of harm perception for e-cigarettes and the trend of the association between harm perception for e-cigarettes and for cigarettes among US youth from 2014 to 2019. DESIGN, SETTING AND SUBJECTS The National Youth Tobacco Survey is an annual, cross-sectional, school-based survey done among youth selected using three-stage probability sampling. ANALYSIS Data were drawn from the 2014 to 2019 Surveys. A Multinomial logistic regression model was used to assess the association between harm perception for e-cigarettes and harm perception for cigarettes for each year. RESULTS The percentage of youth who perceived e-cigarettes as harmless decreased from 2014 to 2019 (17.2% to 5.8%). From 2015 to 2018, the percentage of smokers who perceived e-cigarettes as a little harmful increased (33.6% to 41.2%). The positive association between harm perception for e-cigarettes and harm perception for cigarettes became stronger with time. In 2014, the odds of perceiving e-cigarettes as harmless relative to very harmful were 19.55 times greater for youth who perceived cigarettes as harmless, compared to those who perceived cigarettes as very harmful (OR = 19.55; 95% CI: 14.19-26.94). These odds increased to 77.65 times in 2019 (OR = 77.65; 95% CI: 41.48-107.85). CONCLUSION This study suggests a stronger relationship between perceived harm of cigarettes and e-cigarettes with time. Interventions to prevent smoking have the potential to change e-cigarette use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angella Sandra Namwase
- Centre for Public Health Systems Science, Brown School, 51503Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Emmanuel A Gyimah
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Bobbi J Carothers
- Centre for Public Health Systems Science, Brown School, 51503Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Todd B Combs
- Centre for Public Health Systems Science, Brown School, 51503Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jenine K Harris
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Allen P, Walsh-Bailey C, Hunleth J, Carothers BJ, Brownson RC. Facilitators of Multisector Collaboration for Delivering Cancer Control Interventions in Rural Communities: A Descriptive Qualitative Study. Prev Chronic Dis 2022; 19:E48. [PMID: 35951440 PMCID: PMC9390795 DOI: 10.5888/pcd19.210450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose and Objectives Multisector collaboration is a widely promoted strategy to increase equitable availability, access, and use of healthy foods, safe places for physical activity, social supports, and preventive health care services. Yet fewer studies and resources exist for collaboration among governmental and nongovernmental agencies to address public problems in rural areas, despite an excess burden of risk factors for cancer morbidity and mortality. We aimed to learn about cancer prevention activities and collaboration facilitators among rural informal interagency networks. Evaluation Methods In 2020, researchers conducted semistructured interviews with staff from rural public health and social services agencies, community health centers, and extension offices. Agency staff were from 5 service areas across 27 rural counties in Missouri and Illinois with high poverty rates and excess cancer risks and mortality. We conducted a thematic analysis to code interview transcripts and identify key themes. Results Exchanging information, cohosting annual or one-time events, and promoting other agencies’ services and programs were the most commonly described collaborative activities among the 32 participants interviewed. Participants indicated a desire to improve collaborations by writing more grants together to codevelop ongoing prevention programs and further share resources. Participants expressed needs to increase community outreach, improve referral systems, and expand screenings. We identified 5 facilitator themes: commitment to address community needs, mutual willingness to collaborate, long-standing relationships, smaller community structures, and necessity of leveraging limited resources. Challenges included lack of funding and time, long travel distances, competing priorities, difficulty replacing staff in remote communities, and jurisdictional boundaries. Although the COVID-19 pandemic further limited staff availability for collaboration, participants noted benefits of remote collaborative meetings. Implications for Public Health Rural areas need consistent funding and other resources to support health-improving multisector initiatives. Existing strengths found in the rural underresourced areas can facilitate multisector collaborations for cancer prevention, including long-standing relationships, small community structures, and the need to leverage limited resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peg Allen
- Prevention Research Center, Brown School, Washington University in St Louis, MSC 1196-251-46, One Brookings Dr, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO 63130-4838.
| | - Callie Walsh-Bailey
- Prevention Research Center, Brown School, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Jean Hunleth
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center and Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Bobbi J Carothers
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, Brown School, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Ross C Brownson
- Prevention Research Center, Brown School, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri.,Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center and Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
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Carothers BJ, Allen P, Walsh-Bailey C, Duncan D, Pacheco RV, White KR, Jeckstadt D, Tsai E, Brownson RC. Mapping the Lay of the Land: Using Interactive Network Analytic Tools for Collaboration in Rural Cancer Prevention and Control. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022; 31:1159-1167. [PMID: 35443033 PMCID: PMC9167755 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-21-1446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer mortality rates in the United States are higher in rural than urban areas, especially for colorectal cancer. Modifiable cancer risks (e.g., tobacco use, obesity) are more prevalent among U.S. rural than urban residents. Social network analyses are common, yet rural informal collaborative networks for cancer prevention and control and practitioner uses of network findings are less well understood. METHODS In five service areas in rural Missouri and Illinois, we conducted a network survey of informal multisector networks among agencies that address cancer risk (N = 152 individuals). The survey asked about contact, collaborative activities, and referrals. We calculated descriptive network statistics and disseminated network visualizations with rural agencies through infographics and interactive Network Navigator platforms. We also collected feedback on uses of network findings from agency staff (N = 14). RESULTS Service areas had more connections (average degree) for exchanging information than for more time-intensive collaborative activities of co-developing and sustaining ongoing services and programs, and co-developing and sharing resources. On average, collaborative activities were not dependent on just a few agencies to bridge gaps to hold networks together. Users found the network images and information useful for identifying gaps, planning which relationships to establish or enhance to strengthen certain collaborative activities and cross-referrals, and showing network strengths to current and potential funders. CONCLUSIONS Rural informal cancer prevention and control networks in this study are highly connected and largely decentralized. IMPACT Disseminating network findings help ensure usefulness to rural health and social service practitioners who address cancer risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bobbi J. Carothers
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Peg Allen
- Prevention Research Center, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Callie Walsh-Bailey
- Prevention Research Center, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Dixie Duncan
- Prevention Research Center, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | | | | | | | - Edward Tsai
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Ross C. Brownson
- Prevention Research Center, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
- Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
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Brownson RC, Jacob RR, Carothers BJ, Chambers DA, Colditz GA, Emmons KM, Haire-Joshu D, Kerner JF, Padek M, Pfund C, Sales A. Building the Next Generation of Researchers: Mentored Training in Dissemination and Implementation Science. Acad Med 2021; 96:86-92. [PMID: 32941251 PMCID: PMC7769184 DOI: 10.1097/acm.0000000000003750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
PROBLEM Dissemination and implementation (D&I) science provides the tools needed to close the gap between known intervention strategies and their effective application. The authors report on the Mentored Training for Dissemination and Implementation Research in Cancer (MT-DIRC) program-a D&I training program for postdoctoral or early-career cancer prevention and control scholars. APPROACH MT-DIRC was a 2-year training institute in which fellows attended 2 annual Summer Institutes and other conferences and received didactic, group, and individual instruction; individualized mentoring; and other supports (e.g., pilot funding). A quasi-experimental design compared changes in 3 areas: mentoring, skills, and network composition. To evaluate mentoring and D&I skills, data from fellows on their mentors' mentoring competencies, their perspectives on the importance of and satisfaction with mentoring priority areas, and their self-rated skills in D&I competency domains were collected. Network composition data were collected from faculty and fellows for 3 core social network domains: contact, mentoring, and collaboration. Paired t tests (mentoring), linear mixed models (skills), and descriptive analyses (network composition) were performed. OUTCOMES Mentors were rated as highly competent across all mentoring competencies, and each mentoring priority area showed reductions in gaps between satisfaction and importance between the 6 and 18 months post-first Summer Institute. Fellows' self-rated skills in D&I competencies improved significantly in all domains over time (range: 42.5%-52.9% increase from baseline to 18 months post-first Summer Institute). Mentorship and collaboration networks grew over time, with the highest number of collaboration network ties for scholarly manuscripts (n = 199) in 2018 and for research projects (n = 160) in 2019. NEXT STEPS Building on study findings and existing literature, mentored training of scholars is an important approach for building D&I skills and networks, and thus to better applying the vast amount of available intervention evidence to benefit cancer control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross C. Brownson
- R.C. Brownson is Steven H. and Susan U. Lipstein Distinguished Professor of Public Health, Prevention Research Center, Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center and Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Rebekah R. Jacob
- R.R. Jacob is research manager, Prevention Research Center, Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Bobbi J. Carothers
- B.J. Carothers is senior data analyst, Center for Public Health Systems Science, Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - David A. Chambers
- D.A. Chambers is deputy director for implementation science, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Graham A. Colditz
- G.A. Colditz is Niess-Gain Professor of Surgery, Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center and Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Karen M. Emmons
- K.M. Emmons is professor of social and behavioral sciences, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Debra Haire-Joshu
- D. Haire-Joshu is Joyce Wood Professor, Center for Diabetes Translation Research and Center for Obesity Prevention and Policy Research, Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Jon F. Kerner
- J.F. Kerner was senior scientific advisor, Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Margaret Padek
- M. Padek is research manager, Implementation Science Center for Cancer Control, Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, and Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Christine Pfund
- C. Pfund is senior scientist, Center for the Improvement of Mentored Experiences in Research, and Wisconsin Center for Education Research and Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Anne Sales
- A. Sales is professor, VA Center for Clinical Management Research, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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Baumann AA, Carothers BJ, Landsverk J, Kryzer E, Aarons GA, Brownson RC, Glisson C, Mittman B, Proctor EK. Evaluation of the Implementation Research Institute: Trainees' Publications and Grant Productivity. Adm Policy Ment Health 2020; 47:254-264. [PMID: 31667667 PMCID: PMC7285898 DOI: 10.1007/s10488-019-00977-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
With growth in the field of dissemination and implementation (D&I) research, there has been growth in capacity building, with many training opportunities. As such, it is important to continue to evaluate D&I research training programs. This paper reports the results of an evaluation of the Implementation Research Institute (IRI), a R25 funded by the National Institute of Mental Health with additional funding by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The fourth cohort also had a supplement from the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Using bibliometrics data, we report on a quasi-experimental retrospective cohort study assessing whether the rates of scholarly productivity in D&I science of IRI fellows (those who applied and were accepted to the training) were greater than those who applied but were not accepted to IRI. Our findings show that Selected Applicants' odds of publishing in implementation science were higher for earlier alumni, starting at 12% 1 year out and increasing to 94% for those who were 4 years out from starting training. Chances for Non-Selected Applicants remained relatively stable, starting at 47% at 1 year and going to 33% at 4 years since their application, a pattern that was stable even after controlling for demographic characteristics. These results support the hypothesis that IRI is increasing the D&I research productivity of those selected to the program, and that our fellows are advancing the field of D&I compared to those investigators not selected to our institute. Our finding also indicates the importance of a 2-year training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana A Baumann
- Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, Campus Box 1196, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Bobbi J Carothers
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, Campus Box 1196, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - John Landsverk
- Oregon Social Learning Center, 10 Shelton Mcmurphey Blvd, Eugene, OR, 97401, USA
| | - Emily Kryzer
- Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, Campus Box 1196, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Gregory A Aarons
- Department of Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Services Research Center (CASRC), UC San Diego, 9500 Gilmar Drive 0812, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0812, USA
| | - Ross C Brownson
- Prevention Research Center in St. Louis, Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, Campus Box 1196, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
- Department of Surgery (Division of Public Health Sciences) and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, USA
| | - Charles Glisson
- Center for Behavioral Health Research, College of Social Work, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 1618 W. Cumberland Ave, 201 Henson Hall, Knoxville, TN, 37996-332, USA
| | - Brian Mittman
- Kaiser Permanente Southern California Department of Research and Evaluation, 100 S. Los Robles Ave, Pasadena, CA, 91101-2453, USA
| | - Enola K Proctor
- Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, Campus Box 1196, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
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Harris JK, Combs TB, Johnson KJ, Carothers BJ, Luke DA, Wang X. Three Changes Public Health Scientists Can Make to Help Build a Culture of Reproducible Research. Public Health Rep 2019; 134:109-111. [PMID: 30657732 PMCID: PMC6410469 DOI: 10.1177/0033354918821076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jenine K. Harris
- Brown School, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Todd B. Combs
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, Brown School, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Bobbi J. Carothers
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, Brown School, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Douglas A. Luke
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, Brown School, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, Brown School, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
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Harris JK, Johnson KJ, Carothers BJ, Combs TB, Luke DA, Wang X. Use of reproducible research practices in public health: A survey of public health analysts. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0202447. [PMID: 30208041 PMCID: PMC6135378 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0202447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Use of reproducible research practices improves the quality of science and the speed of scientific development. We sought to understand use of reproducible research practices in public health and associated barriers and facilitators. Methods In late 2017, we surveyed members of the American Public Health Association Applied Public Health Statistics section and others; 247 of 278 who screened eligible answered the survey, and 209 answered every applicable question. The survey included questions about file management, code annotation and documentation, reproducibility of analyses, and facilitators and barriers of using reproducible practices. Results Just 14.4% of participants had shared code, data, or both. Many participants reported their data (33%) and code (43.2%) would be difficult for colleagues to find if they left their institution. Top reported barriers to using reproducible practices were data privacy (49.8%) and lack of time (41.7%). Participants suggested training (50.9%) and requirements by journals (44.4%) and funders (40.2%) to increase use of reproducible research practices. Conclusions Increasing use of reproducible research practices is important for public health and requires action from researchers, training programs, funders, and journals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenine K. Harris
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Kimberly J. Johnson
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Bobbi J. Carothers
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Todd B. Combs
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Douglas A. Luke
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
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Luke DA, Sarli CC, Suiter AM, Carothers BJ, Combs TB, Allen JL, Beers CE, Evanoff BA. The Translational Science Benefits Model: A New Framework for Assessing the Health and Societal Benefits of Clinical and Translational Sciences. Clin Transl Sci 2017; 11:77-84. [PMID: 28887873 PMCID: PMC5759746 DOI: 10.1111/cts.12495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
We report the development of the Translational Science Benefits Model (TSBM), a framework designed to support institutional assessment of clinical and translational research outcomes to measure clinical and community health impacts beyond bibliometric measures. The TSBM includes 30 specific and potentially measurable indicators that reflect benefits that accrue from clinical and translational science research such as products, system characteristics, or activities. Development of the TSBM was based on literature review, a modified Delphi method, and in‐house expert panel feedback. Three case studies illustrate the feasibility and face validity of the TSBM for identification of clinical and community health impacts that result from translational science activities. Future plans for the TSBM include further pilot testing and a resource library that will be freely available for evaluators, translational scientists, and academic institutions who wish to implement the TSBM framework in their own evaluation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas A Luke
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Cathy C Sarli
- Becker Medical Library, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Amy M Suiter
- Becker Medical Library, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Bobbi J Carothers
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Todd B Combs
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Jae L Allen
- Institute of Clinical and Translational Sciences (ICTS), Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Courtney E Beers
- Institute of Clinical and Translational Sciences (ICTS), Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Bradley A Evanoff
- Division of General Medical Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Harris JK, Jonson-Reid M, Carothers BJ, Fowler P. The Structure of Policy Networks for Injury and Violence Prevention in 15 US Cities. Public Health Rep 2017; 132:381-388. [PMID: 28426291 DOI: 10.1177/0033354917705367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Changes in policy can reduce violence and injury; however, little is known about how partnerships among organizations influence policy development, adoption, and implementation. To understand partnerships among organizations working on injury and violence prevention (IVP) policy, we examined IVP policy networks in 15 large US cities. METHODS In summer 2014, we recruited 15 local health departments (LHDs) to participate in the study. They identified an average of 28.9 local partners (SD = 10.2) working on IVP policy. In late 2014, we sent survey questionnaires to 434 organizations, including the 15 LHDs and their local partners, about their partnerships and the importance of each organization to local IVP policy efforts; 319 participated. We used network methods to examine the composition and structure of the policy networks. RESULTS Each IVP policy network included the LHD and an average of 21.3 (SD = 6.9) local partners. On average, nonprofit organizations constituted 50.7% of networks, followed by government agencies (26.3%), schools and universities (11.8%), coalitions (11.2%), voluntary organizations (9.6%), hospitals (8.5%), foundations (2.2%), and for-profit organizations (0.7%). Government agencies were perceived as important by the highest proportion of partners. Perceived importance was significantly associated with forming partnerships in most networks; odds ratios ranged from 1.07 (95% CI, 1.02-1.13) to 2.35 (95% CI, 1.68-3.28). Organization type was significantly associated with partnership formation in most networks after controlling for an organization's importance to the network. CONCLUSIONS Several strategies could strengthen local IVP policy networks, including (1) developing connections with partners from sectors that are not well integrated into the networks and (2) encouraging indirect or less formal connections with important but missing partners and partner types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenine K Harris
- 1 Brown School, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Bobbi J Carothers
- 1 Brown School, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Patrick Fowler
- 1 Brown School, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
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Luke DA, Baumann AA, Carothers BJ, Landsverk J, Proctor EK. Forging a link between mentoring and collaboration: a new training model for implementation science. Implement Sci 2016; 11:137. [PMID: 27737693 PMCID: PMC5062835 DOI: 10.1186/s13012-016-0499-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2016] [Accepted: 09/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Training investigators for the rapidly developing field of implementation science requires both mentoring and scientific collaboration. Using social network descriptive analyses, visualization, and modeling, this paper presents results of an evaluation of the mentoring and collaborations fostered over time through the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) supported by Implementation Research Institute (IRI). Methods Data were comprised of IRI participant self-reported collaborations and mentoring relationships, measured in three annual surveys from 2012 to 2014. Network descriptive statistics, visualizations, and network statistical modeling were conducted to examine patterns of mentoring and collaboration among IRI participants and to model the relationship between mentoring and subsequent collaboration. Results Findings suggest that IRI is successful in forming mentoring relationships among its participants, and that these mentoring relationships are related to future scientific collaborations. Exponential random graph network models demonstrated that mentoring received in 2012 was positively and significantly related to the likelihood of having a scientific collaboration 2 years later in 2014 (p = 0.001). More specifically, mentoring was significantly related to future collaborations focusing on new research (p = 0.009), grant submissions (p = 0.003), and publications (p = 0.017). Predictions based on the network model suggest that for every additional mentoring relationships established in 2012, the likelihood of a scientific collaboration 2 years later is increased by almost 7 %. Conclusions These results support the importance of mentoring in implementation science specifically and team science more generally. Mentoring relationships were established quickly and early by the IRI core faculty. IRI fellows reported increasing scientific collaboration of all types over time, including starting new research, submitting new grants, presenting research results, and publishing peer-reviewed papers. Statistical network models demonstrated that mentoring was strongly and significantly related to subsequent scientific collaboration, which supported a core design principle of the IRI. Future work should establish the link between mentoring and scientific productivity. These results may be of interest to team science, as they suggest the importance of mentoring for future team collaborations, as well as illustrate the utility of network analysis for studying team characteristics and activities. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13012-016-0499-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas A Luke
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, Campus Box 1196, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
| | - Ana A Baumann
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, Campus Box 1196, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Bobbi J Carothers
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, Campus Box 1196, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - John Landsverk
- Oregon Social Learning Center, 10 Shelton McMurphey Blvd., Eugene, OR, 97401, USA
| | - Enola K Proctor
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, Campus Box 1196, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
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Dhand A, Luke DA, Carothers BJ, Evanoff BA. Academic Cross-Pollination: The Role of Disciplinary Affiliation in Research Collaboration. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0145916. [PMID: 26760302 PMCID: PMC4711942 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0145916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Academic collaboration is critical to knowledge production, especially as teams dominate scientific endeavors. Typical predictors of collaboration include individual characteristics such as academic rank or institution, and network characteristics such as a central position in a publication network. The role of disciplinary affiliation in the initiation of an academic collaboration between two investigators deserves more attention. Here, we examine the influence of disciplinary patterns on collaboration formation with control of known predictors using an inferential network model. The study group included all researchers in the Institute of Clinical and Translational Sciences (ICTS) at Washington University in St. Louis. Longitudinal data were collected on co-authorships in grants and publications before and after ICTS establishment. Exponential-family random graph models were used to build the network models. The results show that disciplinary affiliation independently predicted collaboration in grant and publication networks, particularly in the later years. Overall collaboration increased in the post-ICTS networks, with cross-discipline ties occurring more often than within-discipline ties in grants, but not publications. This research may inform better evaluation models of university-based collaboration, and offer a roadmap to improve cross-disciplinary collaboration with discipline-informed network interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amar Dhand
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Center for Public Health Systems Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Douglas A. Luke
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Center for Public Health Systems Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Bobbi J. Carothers
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Center for Public Health Systems Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Bradley A. Evanoff
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of General Medical Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
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Moreland-Russell S, Carothers BJ. An Examination of Two Policy Networks Involved in Advancing Smokefree Policy Initiatives. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2015; 12:11117-31. [PMID: 26371022 PMCID: PMC4586664 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120911117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Revised: 08/25/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study examines smokefree policy networks in two cities—Kansas City and St. Louis, Missouri—one that was successful in achieving widespread policy success, and one that was not. Descriptive social network analyses and visual network mapping were used to compare importance and contact relationships among actors involved in the smokefree policy initiatives. In Kansas City, where policy adoption was achieved, there was a higher level of connectivity among members, with network members being in contact with an average of more than five people, compared to just over two people for the St. Louis network. For both cities, despite being recognized as important, politicians were in contact with the fewest number of people. Results highlight the critical need to actively engage a variety of stakeholders when attempting city wide public health policy change. As evident by the success in smokefree policy adoption throughout Kansas City compared to St. Louis, closer linkages and continued communication among stakeholders including the media, coalitions, public health agencies, policymakers, and other partners are essential if we are to advance and broaden the impact of public health policy. Results indicate that the presence of champions, or those that play leadership roles in actively promoting policy by linking individuals and organizations, play an important role in advancing public health policy. Those working in public health should examine their level of engagement with the policy process and implement strategies for improving that engagement through relationship building and ongoing interactions with a variety of stakeholders, including policymakers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Moreland-Russell
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, CB 1196, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
| | - Bobbi J Carothers
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, George Warren Brown School of Social Work, CB 1196, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
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Luke DA, Carothers BJ, Dhand A, Bell RA, Moreland-Russell S, Sarli CC, Evanoff BA. Breaking down silos: mapping growth of cross-disciplinary collaboration in a translational science initiative. Clin Transl Sci 2014; 8:143-9. [PMID: 25472908 DOI: 10.1111/cts.12248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The importance of transdisciplinary collaboration is growing, though not much is known about how to measure collaboration patterns. The purpose of this paper is to present multiple ways of mapping and evaluating the growth of cross-disciplinary partnerships over time. Social network analysis was used to examine the impact of a Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) on collaboration patterns. Grant submissions from 2007 through 2010 and publications from 2007 through 2011 of Institute of Clinical and Translational Sciences (ICTS) members were examined. A Cohort Model examining the first-year ICTS members demonstrated an overall increase in collaborations on grants and publications, as well as an increase in cross-discipline collaboration as compared to within-discipline. A Growth Model that included additional members over time demonstrated the same pattern for grant submissions, but a decrease in cross-discipline collaboration as compared to within-discipline collaboration for publications. ICTS members generally became more cross-disciplinary in their collaborations during the CTSA. The exception of publications for the Growth Model may be due to the time lag between funding and publication, as well as pressure for younger scientists to publish in their own fields. Network analysis serves as a valuable tool for evaluating changes in scientific collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas A Luke
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Schoen MW, Moreland-Russell S, Prewitt K, Carothers BJ. Social network analysis of public health programs to measure partnership. Soc Sci Med 2014; 123:90-5. [PMID: 25462609 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2014.10.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2013] [Revised: 08/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/29/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
In order to prevent chronic diseases, community-based programs are encouraged to take an ecological approach to public health promotion and involve many diverse partners. Little is known about measuring partnership in implementing public health strategies. We collected data from 23 Missouri communities in early 2012 that received funding from three separate programs to prevent obesity and/or reduce tobacco use. While all of these funding programs encourage partnership, only the Social Innovation for Missouri (SIM) program included a focus on building community capacity and enhancing collaboration. Social network analysis techniques were used to understand contact and collaboration networks in community organizations. Measurements of average degree, density, degree centralization, and betweenness centralization were calculated for each network. Because of the various sizes of the networks, we conducted comparative analyses with and without adjustment for network size. SIM programs had increased measurements of average degree for partner collaboration and larger networks. When controlling for network size, SIM groups had higher measures of network density and lower measures of degree centralization and betweenness centralization. SIM collaboration networks were more dense and less centralized, indicating increased partnership. The methods described in this paper can be used to compare partnership in community networks of various sizes. Further research is necessary to define causal mechanisms of partnership development and their relationship to public health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin W Schoen
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in Saint Louis, USA.
| | - Sarah Moreland-Russell
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in Saint Louis, USA
| | - Kim Prewitt
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in Saint Louis, USA
| | - Bobbi J Carothers
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in Saint Louis, USA
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Luke DA, Wald LM, Carothers BJ, Bach LE, Harris JK. Network influences on dissemination of evidence-based guidelines in state tobacco control programs. Health Educ Behav 2014; 40:33S-42S. [PMID: 24084398 DOI: 10.1177/1090198113492760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Little is known regarding the social network relationships that influence dissemination of evidence-based public health practices and policies. In public health, it is critical that evidence-based guidelines, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Best Practices for Comprehensive Tobacco Control Programs, are effectively and efficiently disseminated to intended stakeholders. To determine the organizational and network predictors of dissemination among state tobacco control programs, interviews with members of tobacco control networks across eight states were conducted between August 2009 and September 2010. Measures included partner attributes (e.g., agency type) and relationships among network members (frequency of contact, extent of collaboration, and dissemination of Best Practices). Exponential random graph modeling was used to examine attribute and structural predictors of collaboration and dissemination among partners in each network. Although density and centralization of dissemination ties varied across states, network analyses revealed a consistent prediction pattern across all eight states. State tobacco control dissemination networks were less dense but more centralized compared with organizational contact and collaboration networks. Tobacco control partners in each state were more likely to disseminate the Best Practices guidelines if they also had existing contact and collaboration relationships with one another. Evidence-based guidelines in public health need to be efficiently and broadly disseminated if we hope to translate science into practice. This study suggests that funders, advocacy groups, and public health agencies can take advantage of existing public health organizational relationships to support the communication and dissemination of evidence-based practices and policies.
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Abstract
Sex differences are a perpetually popular topic among scholars and lay audiences, but no research has addressed the underlying structure of these differences. Many people assume that sex differences in social behavior are categorical—that these differences represent fundamental distinctions between two distinct categories (taxa) of humans. Contrasted with this view is the idea that sex differences are dimensional—that differences between men and women indicate nothing more than relative positions along overlapping continuous dimensions. We used taxometric methods to examine whether a variety of well-established sex differences are indicative of taxa or dimensions. The evidence clearly supported the latter. Thus, for the psychological constructs that we examined, there is little support for believing that sex differences are anything more than individual differences that vary in magnitude from one attribute to another.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harry T. Reis
- Department of Clinical and Social Sciences in Psychology, University of Rochester
| | - Bobbi J. Carothers
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, Washington University in St. Louis
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Lobb R, Carothers BJ, Lofters AK. Using organizational network analysis to plan cancer screening programs for vulnerable populations. Am J Public Health 2013; 104:358-64. [PMID: 24328613 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2013.301532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We examined relationships among organizations in a cancer screening network to inform the development of interventions to improve cancer screening for South Asians living in the Peel region of Ontario. METHODS From April to July 2012, we surveyed decision-makers, program managers, and program staff in 22 organizations in the South Asian cancer screening network in the Peel region. We used a network analytic approach to evaluate density (range = 0%-100%, number of ties among organizations in the network expressed as a percentage of all possible ties), centralization (range = 0-1, the extent of variability in centrality), and node characteristics for the communication, collaboration, and referral networks. RESULTS Density was similar across communication (15%), collaboration (17%), and referral (19%) networks. Centralization was greater in the collaboration network (0.30) than the communication network (0.24), and degree centralization was greater in the inbound (0.42) than the outbound (0.37) referral network. Diverse organizations were central to the networks. CONCLUSIONS Certain organizations were unexpectedly important to the South Asian cancer screening network. Program planning was informed by identifying opportunities to strengthen linkages between key organizations and to leverage existing ties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Lobb
- Rebecca Lobb is with the Department of Surgery, Division of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, and Bobbi J. Carothers is with the George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Center for Public Health Systems Science, Washington University, St Louis, MO. Rebecca Lobb is also with the Keenan Research Centre, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, and Aisha K. Lofters is with the Department of Family and Community Medicine, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON
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Abstract
Taxometric methods enable determination of whether the latent structure of a construct is dimensional or taxonic (nonarbitrary categories). Although sex as a biological category is taxonic, psychological gender differences have not been examined in this way. The taxometric methods of mean above minus below a cut, maximum eigenvalue, and latent mode were used to investigate whether gender is taxonic or dimensional. Behavioral measures of stereotyped hobbies and physiological characteristics (physical strength, anthropometric measurements) were examined for validation purposes, and were taxonic by sex. Psychological indicators included sexuality and mating (sexual attitudes and behaviors, mate selectivity, sociosexual orientation), interpersonal orientation (empathy, relational-interdependent self-construal), gender-related dispositions (masculinity, femininity, care orientation, unmitigated communion, fear of success, science inclination, Big Five personality), and intimacy (intimacy prototypes and stages, social provisions, intimacy with best friend). Constructs were with few exceptions dimensional, speaking to Spence's (1993) gender identity theory. Average differences between men and women are not under dispute, but the dimensionality of gender indicates that these differences are inappropriate for diagnosing gender-typical psychological variables on the basis of sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bobbi J Carothers
- Center for Public Health Systems Science, Washington University in St. Louis
| | - Harry T Reis
- Department of Clinical and Social Sciences in Psychology, University of Rochester
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Harris JK, Carothers BJ, Wald LM, Shelton SC, Leischow SJ. Interpersonal influence among public health leaders in the United States department of health and human services. J Public Health Res 2012; 1:67-74. [PMID: 25170448 PMCID: PMC4140316 DOI: 10.4081/jphr.2012.e12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2011] [Accepted: 02/01/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In public health, interpersonal influence has been identified as an important factor in the spread of health information, and in understanding and changing health behaviors. However, little is known about influence in public health leadership. Influence is important in leadership settings, where public health professionals contribute to national policy and practice agendas. Drawing on social theory and recent advances in statistical network modeling, we examined influence in a network of tobacco control leaders at the United States Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). DESIGN AND METHODS Fifty-four tobacco control leaders across all 11 agencies in the DHHS were identified; 49 (91%) responded to a web-based survey. Participants were asked about communication with other tobacco control leaders, who influenced their work, and general job characteristics. Exponential random graph modeling was used to develop a network model of influence accounting for characteristics of individuals, their relationships, and global network structures. RESULTS Higher job ranks, more experience in tobacco control, and more time devoted to tobacco control each week increased the likelihood of influence nomination, as did more frequent communication between network members. Being in the same agency and working the same number of hours per week were positively associated with mutual influence nominations. Controlling for these characteristics, the network also exhibited patterns associated with influential clusters of network members. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this unique study provide a perspective on influence within a government agency that both helps to understand decision-making and also can serve to inform organizational efforts that allow for more effective structuring of leadership.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenine K Harris
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work Washington University in St. Louis , St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Bobbi J Carothers
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work Washington University in St. Louis , St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Lana M Wald
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work Washington University in St. Louis , St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sarah C Shelton
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work Washington University in St. Louis , St. Louis, MO, USA
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Harris JK, Geremakis C, Moreland-Russell S, Carothers BJ, Shelton SC, Kariuki B, Kuhlenbeck M. Demographic and geographic differences in exposure to secondhand smoke in Missouri workplaces, 2007-2008. Prev Chronic Dis 2011; 8:A135. [PMID: 22005628 PMCID: PMC3221576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION African Americans, Hispanics, service and blue-collar workers, and residents of rural areas are among those facing higher rates of workplace secondhand smoke exposure in states without smokefree workplace laws. Consequently, these groups also experience more negative health effects resulting from secondhand smoke exposure. The objective of this study was to examine disparities in workplace secondhand smoke exposure in a state without a comprehensive statewide smokefree workplace law and to use this information in considering a statewide law. METHODS We developed a logistic multilevel model by using data from a 2007-2008 county-level study to account for individual and county-level differences in workplace secondhand smoke exposure. We included sex, age, race, annual income, education level, smoking status, and rural or urban residence as predictors of workplace secondhand smoke exposure. RESULTS Factors significantly associated with increased exposure to workplace secondhand smoke were male sex, lower education levels, lower income, living in a small rural or isolated area, and current smoking. For example, although the overall rate of workplace exposure in Missouri is 11.5%, our model predicts that among young white men with low incomes and limited education living in small rural areas, 40% of nonsmokers and 56% of smokers may be exposed to secondhand smoke at work. CONCLUSION Significant disparities exist in workplace secondhand smoke exposure across Missouri. A statewide smokefree workplace law would protect all citizens from workplace secondhand smoke exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenine K. Harris
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis. Dr Harris is also affiliated with the Center for Tobacco Policy Research, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | | | - Sarah Moreland-Russell
- Center for Tobacco Policy Research, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Bobbi J. Carothers
- Center for Tobacco Policy Research, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Sarah C. Shelton
- Center for Tobacco Policy Research, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Barbara Kariuki
- School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Matthew Kuhlenbeck
- Matthew Kuhlenbeck, Missouri Foundation for Health, Saint Louis, Missouri
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Harris JK, Carothers BJ, Luke DA, Silmere H, McBride TD, Pion M. Exempting casinos from the Smoke-free Illinois Act will not bring patrons back: they never left. Tob Control 2011; 21:373-6. [PMID: 21676951 DOI: 10.1136/tc.2010.042127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Smoke-free Illinois Act was implemented in January 2008, one month after the beginning of a national recession. In December 2010, the Illinois legislature proposed new legislation that would provide an exemption for casinos from the act until neighbouring states also implement smoke-free casino policies. Lobbyists and gaming commission representatives argued that Illinois casinos were losing patrons to casinos in neighbouring states that allow smoking. This study examined the influence of the act on casino admissions in Illinois and neighbouring states in light of the economy. METHODS A multilevel model was developed to examine monthly casino admissions from January 2007 to December 2008. RESULTS There was no difference in changes in admissions across the four states over time after accounting for the economic downturn. CONCLUSIONS The Smoke-Free Illinois Act did not have a detectable effect on Illinois casino admissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenine K Harris
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St Louis, One Brookings Drive, St Louis, MO 63130, USA.
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Harris JK, Cyr J, Carothers BJ, Mueller NB, Anwuri VV, James AI. Referrals among cancer services organizations serving underserved cancer patients in an urban area. Am J Public Health 2011; 101:1248-52. [PMID: 21566039 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2010.300017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Significant racial, socioeconomic, and geographic disparities exist nationwide in cancer screenings, treatments, and outcomes. Differences in health and social service provision and utilization may contribute to or exacerbate these disparities. We evaluated the composition and structure of a referral network of organizations providing services to underserved cancer patients in an urban area in 2007. We observed a need for increased awareness building among provider organizations, broader geographic coverage among organizations, and increased utilization of tobacco cessation and financial assistance services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenine K Harris
- Center for Tobacco Policy Research, Washington University, St Louis, MO, USA.
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Luke DA, Harris JK, Shelton S, Allen P, Carothers BJ, Mueller NB. Systems analysis of collaboration in 5 national tobacco control networks. Am J Public Health 2010; 100:1290-7. [PMID: 20466950 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2009.184358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We studied 5 members of the National Network Consortium on Tobacco Control in Priority Populations. These networks, which consist of governmental and nongovernmental organizations, targeted lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons; Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders; American Indians and Alaska Natives; African Americans; and persons with low socioeconomic status, respectively. METHODS We used statistical network analysis modeling to examine collaboration among these national networks in 2007. RESULTS Network size and composition varied, but all 5 networks had extensive interorganizational collaboration. Location and work area were significant predictors of collaboration among network members in all 5 networks. Organizations were more likely to collaborate with their network's lead agency; collaborations with other agencies were more likely if they were geographically close. Collaboration was perceived to be important for achieving the goals of the national network. CONCLUSIONS The similarity of collaboration patterns across the 5 networks suggests common underlying partnership formation processes. Statistical network modeling promises to be a useful tool for understanding how public health systems such as networks and coalitions can be used to improve the nation's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas A Luke
- Center for Tobacco Policy Research, Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63112, USA.
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