bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Robust Unsupervised Method for Fraud Rate Estimation
Authors: Ai Jing , Brockett Patrick L. , Golden Linda L. , Guillén Montserrat
Published: April 2012

Abstract

If one is interested in managing fraud, one must measure the fraud rate to be able to assess the degree of the problem and the effectiveness of the fraud management technique. This article offers a robust new method for estimating fraud rate, PRIDIT‐FRE (PRIDIT‐based Fraud Rate Estimation), developed based on PRIDIT, an unsupervised fraud detection method to assess individual claim fraud suspiciousness. PRIDIT‐FRE presents the first nonparametric unsupervised estimator of the actual rate of fraud in a population of claims, robust to the bias contained in an audited sample (arising from the quality or individual hubris of an auditor or investigator, or the natural data‐gathering process through claims adjusting). PRIDIT‐FRE exploits the internal consistency of fraud predictors and makes use of a small audited sample or an unaudited sample only. Using two insurance fraud data sets with different characteristics, we illustrate the effectiveness of PRIDIT‐FRE and examine its robustness in varying scenarios.
Does Security Impact E‐procurement Performance? Testing a Model of Direct and Moderated Effects
Authors: Vaidyanathan Ganesh , Devaraj Sarv , D'Arcy John
Published: April 2012

Despite the widespread adoption of e‐procurement and the critical role of information security in these situations, academic research examining the relationship between information security and e‐procurement performance has been surprisingly minimal. This study represents an interdisciplinary approach to present and test a theoretical model that links security in e‐procurement processes to e‐procurement performance. E‐procurement performance is measured as a combination of cost savings, order quality, and satisfaction of fulfillment as perceived by buyers. The model also posits that two aspects of the procurement process will enhance the value of security in e‐procurement, namely, process complexity and process interdependence. We empirically examine these relationships using data collected from procurement managers. Our results have important implications for managing the e‐procurement process.
Relationship between Intellectual Capital and Knowledge Management: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Hsu I‐Chieh , Sabherwal Rajiv
Published: April 2012

Two important streams of the literature have examined intellectual capital (IC) and knowledge management (KM). Surprisingly, they have developed in parallel, without any empirical research on the relationship between them. This article empirically examines how IC and KM affect each other, and also investigates their consequences, viewing three intermediate consequences (dynamic capabilities, efficiency, and innovativeness) to mediate their effects on firm performance. In addition, this article examines the effects of the organization's culture on IC and KM. To address these issues, a comprehensive model is developed and tested using a combination of survey and secondary data of 533 companies in Taiwan. The results support the theoretical model. Major findings include the following: IC affects KM and dynamic capabilities; KM facilitates innovation but not dynamic capabilities or IC; a learning culture facilitates IC and innovation but not KM; firm performance depends on efficiency and innovation, but not directly on dynamic capabilities; and efficiency does not depend on any of the other constructs in the study. The article's implications for research and practice are examined.
Incremental Value of Live/Real Time Three‐Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography over the Two‐Dimensional Technique in the Assessment of Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection
Authors: Joshi Deepak , Bicer Elif Ijlal , Donmez Cevdet , Hsiung Ming C. , Nanda Navin C. , Sadat Kamel , Sudhakar Selvin , Ibrahim Hisham , Pandey Abhilasha , Karia Nidhi , Bhagatwala Kunal , Yin Wei‐Hsian , Jeng‐Wei   M.D., D.Sc.  , Chung‐Yi‐Chang   M.D.  , Chung Yi‐Cheng , Tsai Shen‐Kou , Dumaswala Bhavin , Dumaswala Komal
Published: April 2012

We compared findings from intraoperative live/real time three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3DTEE) and two‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (2DTEE) with surgery in 67 patients having aortic aneurysm and/or aortic dissection. Of these, 20 patients had aortic aneurysm without dissection, 21 aortic aneurysm and dissection, and 26 aortic dissection without aneurysm. 3DTEE diagnosed the type and location of aneurysm correctly in all patients unlike 2DTEE, which missed an aneurysm in one case. There were four cases of aortic aneurysm rupture. Three of them were diagnosed by 3DTEE but only one by 2DTEE, and one missed by both techniques. The mouth of saccular aneurysm, site of aortic aneurysm rupture, and communication sites between perfusing and nonperfusing lumens of aortic dissection could be viewed en face only with 3DTEE, enabling comprehensive measurements of their area and dimensions as well as increasing the confidence level of their diagnosis. In all patients with aortic dissection, 3DTEE enabled a more confident diagnosis of dissection because the dissection flap when viewed en face presented as a sheet of tissue rather than a linear echo seen on 2DTEE which can be confused with an artifact. 2DTEE missed dissection in one patient. In six cases the dissection flap involved the right coronary artery orifice by 3DTEE and surgery. These were missed by 2DTEE. Aortic regurgitation severity was more comprehensively assessed by 3DTEE than 2DTEE. Aneurysm size by 3DTEE correlated well with 2DTEE and surgery/computed tomography scan. In conclusion, 3DTEE provides incremental information over 2DTEE in patients with aortic aneurysm and dissection. (Echocardiography 2012;29:620‐630)
Continuing Medical Education Activity in Echocardiography
Authors: Fan Pohoey , Rowland Thomas , Unnithan Viswanath , Barker Piers , Guerra Miriam , Roche Denise , Lindley Martin
Published: April 2012

Article Title: Orthostatic Effects on Echocardiographic Measures of Ventricular Function (Echocardiography 2012;29:522)
Dextromethorphan Abuse Leading to Assault, Suicide, or Homicide
Authors: Logan Barry K. , Yeakel Jillian K. , Goldfogel Gary , Frost Michael P. , Sandstrom Greg , Wickham Dennis J.
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  Dextromethorphan is a commonly encountered antitussive medication which has found additional therapeutic use in the treatment of pseudobulbar disorder and as an adjunct to opiate use in pain management. Dextromethorphan at high doses has phencyclidine‐like effects on the NMDA receptor system; recreational use of high doses has been found to cause mania and hallucinations. The toxicology and pharmacology of the drug in abuse are reviewed, and the historical literature of adverse psychiatric outcomes is assessed. Five new cases of dextromethorphan intoxication that resulted in assault, suicide, and homicide are reported, together with the corresponding toxicology results. Blood concentrations ranged from 300 to 19,000 μg/L. These results are compared with typical concentrations reported in therapeutic use and impaired driving cases. Based on these findings, dextromethorphan should be considered as a potential causative agent in subjects presenting with mania, psychosis, or hallucinations, and abusers are at risk for violent and self‐destructive acts.
Stature Estimation from Hand Dimensions in a Han Population of Southern China*
Authors: Tang Jianpin , Chen Rui , Lai Xiaoping
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  To analyze the relationship between stature and hand dimensions for forensic applications, the stature and hand dimensions of 400 healthy adults aged between 20 and 25 years were measured in a Han population of Southern China. The mean values of the stature are 170.49 and 159.72 cm in the men and the women, respectively. The statistically significant differences between the right‐ and the left‐hand dimensions were not observed in the men, whereas the bilateral differences are statistically significant in female hand dimensions. The correlation coefficients were found to be statistically significant for the hand dimensions in both the sexes. The hand length showed higher correlation coefficients than the hand breadth in both sexes. Linear and multiple regressions were developed in this study; multiple regressions showed higher correlation coefficients than linear regressions. Two regression models could be used to estimate the stature from the hand dimensions in this population.
Police Witness Identification Images: A Geometric Morphometric Analysis*
Authors: Hayes Susan , Tullberg Cameron
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  Research into witness identification images typically occurs within the laboratory and involves subjective likeness and recognizability judgments. This study analyzed whether actual witness identification images systematically alter the facial shapes of the suspects described. The shape analysis tool, geometric morphometrics, was applied to 46 homologous facial landmarks displayed on 50 witness identification images and their corresponding arrest photographs, using principal component analysis and multivariate regressions. The results indicate that compared with arrest photographs, witness identification images systematically depict suspects with lowered and medially located eyebrows (p = <0.000001). This was found to occur independently of the Police Artist, and did not occur with composites produced under laboratory conditions. There are several possible explanations for this finding, including any, or all, of the following: The suspect was frowning at the time of the incident, the witness had negative feelings toward the suspect, this is an effect of unfamiliar face processing, the suspect displayed fear at the time of their arrest photograph.
Prediction of Projectile Ricochet Behavior After Water Impact*
Authors: Baillargeon Yves , Bergeron Guy
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  Although not very common, forensic investigation related to projectile ricochet on water can be required when undesirable collateral damage occurs. Predicting the ricochet behavior of a projectile is challenging owing to numerous parameters involved: impact velocity, incident angle, projectile stability, angular velocity, etc. Ricochet characteristics of different projectiles (K50 BMG, 0.5‐cal Ball M2, 0.5‐cal AP‐T C44, 7.62‐mm Ball C21, and 5.56‐mm Ball C77) were studied in a pool. The results are presented to assess projectile velocity after ricochet, ricochet angle, and projectile azimuth angle based on impact velocity or incident angle for each projectile type. The azimuth ranges show the highest variability at low postricochet velocity. The critical ricochet angles were ranging from 15 to 30°. The average ricochet angles for all projectiles were pretty close for all projectiles at 2.5 and 10° incident angles for the range of velocities studied.
Procedural Justice and Sanctions in Social Dilemmas: The Moderating Effects of Group Feedback and Identification
Authors: DE CREMER DAVID , HOOGERVORST NIEK , DESMET PIETER
Published: April 2012

An experimental study investigated the role of sanctioning systems in shaping individual contributions in step‐level public good dilemmas. It was predicted and found that procedural justice of the sanctioning system (i.e., accurate vs. inaccurate evaluations of contributions) influenced contributions. Specifically, when group members identified strongly with the group, procedural justice exerted influence only when the group failed in establishing the public good. In contrast, when group members did not identify strongly with the group, procedural justice of the sanction only exerted influence if the group succeeded. These findings suggest that integrating the social dilemma and procedural justice literature may be beneficial for understanding the conditions that determine the effectiveness of sanctioning systems.
Does a Credible Source Also Need a Fearful Audience?
Authors: UMEH KANAYO
Published: April 2012

Does a credible source also need a fearful audience? Current evidence is ambiguous. This study assessed the persuasiveness of a message from a high/low credible source, with strong/weak fear content. Over 270 undergraduates provided attitudinal information before and after receiving a warning about breast cancer, incorporating the experimental manipulations. Attitudes improved after message exposure, irrespective of the fear appeal and source credibility. However, the strong fear appeal amplified message acceptance. There was no evidence of an interaction between source credibility and fear. However, aroused fear and perceived credibility reduced resistance. Neither fear nor source credibility affected persuasion after several months. Instead pre‐message resistance played a critical role. These findings revisit old debates about the importance of peripheral cues in persuasion.
Western mental health training for Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners
Authors: Lam T. P. , Mak K. Y. , Goldberg D. , Lam K. F. , Sun K. S.
Published: April 2012

Lam TP, Mak KY, Goldberg D, Lam KF, Sun KS. Western mental health training for Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners.

Objective:  To investigate the impact of a Western mental health training course for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners.

Method:  A combined qualitative and quantitative approach was applied to examine the changes in the TCM practitioners’ clinical practice characteristics and attitudes. Focus groups and structured questionnaire surveys were conducted to compare their responses before and after the Course.

Results:  After a 10‐week training course conducted by psychiatrists and family physicians, there were significant changes in confidence of the TCM practitioners for diagnosis (33% being confident before the Course vs. 76% after the Course) and management (24% vs. 55%) of common mental health problems. The causal effects of better classifications to recognition of mental health problems were explained by the qualitative responses. Proportion of TCM practitioners being confident of referring mental health patients to other healthcare professionals doubled from 25% to 50% after the Course. Nonetheless, there was no significant change in percentage of these patients being recommended to Western doctors owing to a lack of formal referral channel.

Conclusions:  Western mental health training for TCM practitioners has positive impact on their clinical practice. However, the practical barriers in making referrals highlight the need of closer collaboration between conventional and traditional medicine.
Structural imaging techniques in schizophrenia
Authors: Perlini C. , Bellani M. , Brambilla P.
Published: April 2012

Perlini C, Bellani M, Brambilla P. Structural imaging techniques in schizophrenia.

Objective:  The aim of this overview study is to translate the technical terminology regarding structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging (sMRI) post‐processing analysis into a clinical clear description.

Method:  We resumed and explained the most popular post‐processing methods for structural MRI (sMRI) data applied in psychiatry and their main contributions to the comprehension of the biological basis of schizophrenia.

Results:  The region‐of‐interest (ROI) technique allows to investigate specific brain region size by manual tracing; it is anatomically precise and requires a priori hypothesis, but also it is time‐consuming and operator‐dependent. The voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) detects gray matter density across the whole brain by comparing voxel to voxel; it is operator‐independent, does not require a priori hypothesis, and is relatively fast; however, it is limited by multiple comparisons and poor anatomical definition. Finally, computational neuroanatomical analyses have recently been applied to automatically discriminate subjects with schizophrenia from healthy subjects on the basis of MRI images.

Conclusion:  Structural MRI represents a useful tool in understanding the biological underpinnings of schizophrenia and in planning focused interventions, thus assisting clinicians especially in the early phases of the illness.
Association between thyroid function, thyroid autoimmunity, and state and trait factors of depression
Authors: van de Ven A. C. , Muntjewerff J.‐W. , Netea‐Maier R. T. , de Vegt F. , Ross H. A. , Sweep F. C. G. J. , Kiemeney L. A. , Vos P. E. , Buitelaar J. K. , Hermus A. R. M. M. , den Heijer M. , Janzing J. G. E.
Published: April 2012

van de Ven AC, Muntjewerff J‐W, Netea‐Maier RT, de Vegt F, Ross HA, Sweep FCGJ, Kiemeney LA, Vos PE, Buitelaar JK, Hermus ARMM, den Heijer M, Janzing JGE. Association between thyroid function, thyroid autoimmunity, and state and trait factors of depression.

Objective:  The aim of this study was to investigate whether thyroid function and thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) are associated with depression, when using both state and trait parameters of depression.

Method:  In 1125 participants of the Nijmegen Biomedical Study, thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4), and TPOAb were measured twice. The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), a self‐reported lifetime diagnosis of depression, and the neuroticism scale of the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire Revised Short Scale (EPQ‐RSS) were used to evaluate the presence of state and trait features of depression.

Results:  We found no association between TSH and FT4 levels and BDI score, current depression, lifetime diagnosis of depression, and EPQ‐RSS neuroticism score. Subjects with TPOAb had higher EPQ‐RSS neuroticism scores in comparison with subjects without TPOAb, mean score 4.1 vs. 3.2 (regression coefficient 0.70; 95% CI 0.1–1.3; P‐value 0.02 after adjustment for confounders). The prevalence of a lifetime diagnosis of depression was higher in subjects with positive TPOAb in comparison with participants without TPOAb: 24.2% vs. 16.7% (relative risk 1.4; 95% CI 1.0–2.1; P‐value 0.04 after adjustment for confounders).

Conclusion:  Thyroid peroxidase antibodies are positively associated with trait markers of depression. The presence of TPOAb may be a vulnerability marker for depression.
Blood graft composition after plerixafor injection in patients with NHL
Authors: Varmavuo Ville , Mäntymaa Pentti , Nousiainen Tapio , Valonen Piia , Kuittinen Taru , Jantunen Esa
Published: April 2012

Background

Plerixafor is used to mobilize CD34+ hematopoietic stem cells from bone marrow to circulation. Limited data are available in regard to graft cellular content collected after plerixafor.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess effects of plerixafor added to chemomobilization on graft CD34+ cell subclasses, lymphocyte subsets, engraftment, and post‐transplant course in non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) patients.

Methods

Thirty‐four patients with NHL were included. All patients received chemotherapy plus G‐CSF to mobilize stem cells. Nineteen patients received plerixafor pre‐emptively owing to poor mobilization or poor collection yields. The rest of the patients constituted the control group. Flow cytometric analyzes were performed from cryopreserved graft samples. Also, data on post‐transplant engraftment and outcome were collected.

Results

The proportion of primitive stem cells (CD34+ CD133+ CD38−) was significantly higher after the plerixafor injection when compared to the first collection in the control group. The amount of T cells (CD3+), helper (CD3+ CD4+) T subsets, and suppressor (CD3+ CD8+) T subsets in the graft was all significantly higher in the plerixafor group. Also, the amount of NK cells (CD3− CD16/56+) was higher. Engraftment after high‐dose therapy was comparable between the groups, but leukocyte and platelet count at 6 months were higher in patients receiving plerixafor‐mobilized grafts.

Conclusion

Plerixafor, when used pre‐emptively in addition to chemomobilization, seems to mobilize more primitive CD34+ stem cells, T lymphocytes, and NK cells. Whether these differences are associated with immune reconstitution, long‐term engraftment, or patient outcomes needs to be evaluated in larger patient groups with longer follow‐up.
Hippocampal commissure defects in crosses of four inbred mouse strains with absent corpus callosum
Authors: Bohlen M. O. , Bailoo J. D. , Jordan R. L. , Wahlsten D.
Published: April 2012

It is known that four common inbred mouse strains show defects of the forebrain commissures. The BALB/cJ strain has a low frequency of abnormally small corpus callosum, whereas the 129 strains have many animals with deficient corpus callosum. The I/LnJ and BTBR T+ tf/J strains never have a corpus callosum, whereas half of I/LnJ and almost all BTBR show severely reduced size of the hippocampal commissure. Certain F1 hybrid crosses among these strains are known to be less severely abnormal than the inbred parents, suggesting that the parent strains have different genetic causes of commissure defects. In this study, all hybrid crosses among the four strains were investigated. The BTBR × I/Ln hybrid expressed almost no defects of the hippocampal commissure, unlike its inbred parent strains. Numerous three‐way crosses among the four strains yielded many mice with no corpus callosum and severely reduced hippocampal commissure, which shows that the phenotypic defect can result from several different combinations of genetic alleles. The F2 and F3 hybrid crosses of BTBR and I/LnJ had almost 100% absence of the corpus callosum but about 50% frequency of deficient hippocampal commissure. The four‐way hybrid cross among all four abnormal strains involved highly fertile parents and yielded a very wide phenotypic range of defects from almost no hippocampal commissure to totally normal forebrain commissures. The F2 and F3 crosses as well as the four‐way cross provide excellent material for studies of genetic linkage and behavioral consequences of commissure defects.
Unexpected extra‐renal effects of loop diuretics in the preterm neonate
Authors: Cotton Robert , Suarez Sandra , Reese Jeff
Published: April 2012

The loop diuretics furosemide and bumetanide are commonly used in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Furosemide, because of its actions on the ubiquitous Na+–K+–2Cl− isoform cotransporter and its promotion of prostanoid production and release, also has non‐diuretic effects on vascular smooth muscle, airways, the ductus arteriosus and theoretically the gastrointestinal tract. Loop diuretics also affect the central nervous system through modulation of the GABA‐A chloride channel.

Conclusion:  The loop diuretics have a variety of biological effects that are potentially harmful as well as beneficial. Care should be taken with the use of these agents because the range of their effects may be broader than the single action sought by the prescribing physician.
Immunity after (re)vaccination of paediatric patients following haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Olkinuora Helena , Käyhty Helena , Davidkin Irja , Roivainen Merja , Ölander Rose‐Marie , Kantele Jussi M , Siitonen Sanna , Vettenranta Kim
Published: April 2012

Aims:  Loss of specific immunity follows allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in the majority of cases. Responses to (re)vaccinations can be used as indicators of a functional immunological recovery.

Methods:  Twenty‐three paediatric recipients of HSCT were enrolled in a single centre setting and responses to scheduled immunizations analysed.

Results:  Immunity to vaccine‐preventable diseases was impaired post HSCT, but (re)vaccinations induced protective responses in 59–100%, depending on the vaccine, regardless of prior graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) history.

Conclusion:  Despite the marked impact of moderate to severe chronic prior GVHD on both the qualitative and quantitative T‐cell recovery post allogenic HSCT, most paediatric recipients of allogeneic stem cell grafts appear to attain protective antibody levels after immunization.
Poisoning mortality in Danish children and adolescents, 1970–2006 – a registry‐based study
Authors: Jacobsen Peter , Juel Knud
Published: April 2012

Aim:  To study poisoning mortality from birth to the end of teenage.

Methods:  Registry study within the Danish population including all deaths from poisoning in the 0–19‐year age groups for the years 1970–2006.

Results:  Poisoning mortality was age dependent with a modest peak in preschool children because of accidents and a very steep increase from 0.1/105 person years (p.y.) at 12 years to 6.1/105 p.y. at 19 years. Accidents, suicide and undetermined manner of death all contributed to the increase. A significant proportion of accidental and undetermined manner of death was caused by opioides and probably abuse related. During the study period, mortality decreased by more than 50% with all manners of death contributing significantly to the decline. Carbon monoxide poisoning was the overall dominating cause of death and contributed most to reduction in mortality. Poisoning death caused by opioides and unspecified drugs was unchanged over time.

Conclusion:  Poisoning mortality among the youngest Danish children was dominated by accidental poisonings. During teenage, the level and pattern of adults was approached with respect to suicidal and abuse related deaths. A fall in mortality since mid‐eighties was explained by fewer deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Simultaneous occurrence of foetal and neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia and neonatal neutropenia due to maternal neutrophilic autoantibodies: a case study and review of the literature
Authors: Taaning Ellen , Jensen Lise , Varming Kim
Published: April 2012

Foetal and neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (FNAIT) and neonatal neutropenia caused by maternal autoantibodies against neutrophils are rare disorders. We describe a newborn with severe thrombocytopenia and intracerebral bleeding caused by maternal anti‐HPA‐3a alloantibodies and mild neutropenia caused by maternal autoantibodies against HNA‐1b. This appears to be the first case of simultaneous occurrence of these two conditions.

Conclusion:  This case report and review of the literature demonstrate that anti‐HPA‐3a antibodies can be overlooked by standard assays.
THE USE OF MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING IN EVALUATING HORSES WITH SPINAL ATAXIA
Authors: Mitchell Colleen W. , Nykamp Stephanie G. , Foster Robert , Cruz Robert , Montieth Gabrielle
Published: April 2012

To determine the accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging for diagnosing cervical stenotic myelopathy in horses, 39 horses with spinal ataxia and 20 control horses underwent clinical and neurologic examinations, cervical radiographs, euthanasia, magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the cervical spine and necropsy. Twenty‐four horses were diagnosed with cervical stenotic myelopathy, 5 with cervical vertebral stenosis, 7 with idiopathic ataxia, 3 horses had other causes of ataxia, and 20 were controls. TheMRimages were assessed for spinal cord intensity changes, presence of spinal cord compression, spinal cord compression direction, shape of spinal cord, and the presence of synovial cysts, joint mice, and degenerative joint disease. The height, width, and area of the spinal cord, dural tube and vertebral canal were measured. The identification of spinal cord compression onMRimages was significantly different in horses with cervical stenotic myelopathy (P< 0.02), but in the cervical stenotic myelopathy group the identification of spinal cord compression onMRimages had poor to slight agreement with histopathologic evidence of compression (κ= 0.05). Horses with cervical stenotic myelopathy were more likely to have a T2 hyperintensity in the spinal cord (P< 0.05). Horses with cervical stenotic myelopathy or cervical vertebral stenosis were more likely to have degenerative joint disease than control horses or horses with other or idiopathic ataxia.
Simple external rotation of the leg increases the size and accessibility of the femoral vein
Authors: Read Hamish , Holdgate Anna , Watkins Stuart
Published: April 2012

Objective: To determine if external rotation of the leg increases the size and accessibility of the femoral vein compared with a neutral position.

Methods: One hundred patients presenting to a tertiary teaching hospital were prospectively recruited. The right common femoral vein of each subject was scanned with a linear probe (5–10 MHz) inferior to the inguinal ligament, with the leg in a neutral position and then in the externally rotated position. The transverse diameter of the femoral vein, the accessible diameter of the vein (lying medial to the femoral artery) and the depth of the vein were measured.

Results: The mean diameter of the femoral vein in the externally rotated leg was greater than with the leg in the neutral position (15.4 mm vs 13.8 mm); the mean difference was 1.6 mm (95% CI 1.3–1.9). The mean accessible diameter of the femoral vein was larger with the leg externally rotated (13.8 mm vs 11.7 mm, mean difference 2.1 mm, 95% CI 1.8–2.5). The depth from the skin to the femoral vein was less with the leg in external rotation (20.9 mm vs 22.6 mm, mean difference 1.7 mm, 95% CI 1.2–2.2). The mean diameter and depth were greater in patients with overweight or obese body mass index (BMI) measurements in both leg positions. The increase in femoral vein diameter and accessibility with external rotation was observed in all BMI groups.

Conclusion: The total and accessible femoral vein diameter is increased and the surface depth of the vein is decreased by placing the leg in external rotation compared with the neutral position.
A Comparison of the Potency of a Novel Bispyridinium Oxime K203 and currently available Oximes (Obidoxime, HI‐6) to Counteract the Acute Neurotoxicity of Sarin in Rats
Authors: Kassa Jiri , Misik Jan , Karasova Jana Zdarova
Published: April 2012

The neuroprotective effects of a newly developed oxime K203 and currently available oximes (obidoxime, HI‐6) in combination with atropine in rats poisoned with sarin were studied. The sarin‐induced neurotoxicity was monitored using a functional observatory battery at 2 hr after sarin challenge. The results indicate that the potency of a novel bispyridinium oxime K203 to counteract sarin‐induced neurotoxicity is relatively low and roughly corresponds to the neuroprotective efficacy of obidoxime. Among tested oximes, the oxime HI‐6 seems to be significanlty more efficacious to counteract acute neurotoxicity of sarin than commonly used obidoxime and a newly developed oxime K203. Thus, the oxime K203 does not provide any beneficial effect for the antidotal treatment of acute poisoning with sarin in comparison with the oxime HI‐6 that should be considered to be the best oxime for antidotal treatment of acute sarin poisonings.
The preimaginal stages of the ensign wasp Evania appendigaster (Hymenoptera, Evaniidae), a cockroach egg predator
Authors: Fox Eduardo Gonçalves Paterson , Solis Daniel Russ , Rossi Mônica Lanzoni , Eizemberg Roberto , Taveira Luiz Pilize , Bressan‐Nascimento Suzete
Published: April 2012

Evania appendigaster is a cosmopolitan wasp that deposits eggs in the oothecae of some species of cockroaches; its larvae then consume the cockroach eggs and embryos. It is a candidate for the biological control of cockroaches, but little is known about its basic biology. Here we describe the external morphology of all immature stages of E. appendigaster and compare them with the larvae of related species. The life cycle of E. appendigaster includes three larval instars, each with 13 body segments. Their mouthparts were generally reduced, except for the mandibles, which were always sclerotized and toothed, and were especially robust in second‐instar larvae. Antennal and mouthpart sensilla were basiconic and difficult to observe. Larvae of E. appendigaster are similar in form to other described evaniid larvae, but quite different from the two available descriptions of larvae of gasteruptiid and aulacid wasps. Further descriptions of evaniid larvae will be useful in determining how widespread this morphology is within the family, and in understanding phylogenetic relationships within Hymenoptera.
Deforestation and the Environmental Kuznets Curve in Developing Countries: A Panel Smooth Transition Regression Approach
Authors: Chiu Yi‐Bin
Published: April 2012

Deforestation is a serious environmental problem in many developing countries. This study re‐examines whether the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) relationship between deforestation and real income exists for 52 developing countries during the 1972–2003 period by applying the recently developed panel smooth transition regression (PSTR) model. This paper also considers the potential endogeneity biases and other explanatory variables as a robustness check of the EKC hypothesis. The empirical results indicate the existence of a strong threshold effect between deforestation and real income, and that evidence of the EKC hypothesis for deforestation is apparent. Along with an increase in real income, deforestation increases initially, and after reaching certain income levels, deforestation drops. The turning points are US$3,021 and US$3,103, which the PSTR model endogenously determines.

La déforestation constitue un problème environnemental préoccupant dans de nombreux pays en développement. Dans le présent article, nous avons tenté d’établir s’il existe ou non une relation en U inversé (courbe de Kuznets) entre la déforestation et le revenu réel, en appliquant la nouvelle méthode d’estimation d’effets de seuil avec transition lisse en panel (PSTR) à un échantillon de 52 pays en développement au cours de la période de 1972 à 2003. Nous avons également examiné les biais endogènes possibles et d’autres variables explicatives pour vérifier la robustesse de l’hypothèse de Kuznets. Les résultats empiriques montrent qu’il existe un effet de seuil robuste entre la déforestation et le revenu réel, et que l’évidence de l’hypothèse de Kuznets dans le cas de la déforestation est apparente. Lorsque le revenu réel augmente, la déforestation augmente aussi, mais lorsque le revenu atteint certains niveaux, la déforestation diminue. Les points de retournement sont de 3 021 $US et de 3 103 $US, ce que la méthode PSTR a déterminé de manière endogène.
The Effect of Different Heating Patterns on Vacuum Freeze‐Drying of Litchi Pulp
Authors: Qiao Fang , Fang Changfa , Huang Luelue , Zhang Shufei
Published: April 2012

Three heating patterns, constant temperature, temperature programmed and programmed cooling process were applied to freeze‐drying (FD) the litchi pulp in order to obtain the optimal FD heating technology. The results show that the three patterns all could be used to FD litchi pulp while the appearance was maintained well. The drying time of FD litchi pulp using programmed cooling process was the shortest among the three optimal heating patterns and the drying time was reduced by 15.8 and 11.6% comparing that of FD using constant temperature and temperature programmed. Higher temperature can be applied at the early primary drying stage when the temperature of litchi pulp is under the eutectic temperature and at secondary drying stage but should not be used at the later primary drying stage.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Vacuum FD is widely used in food, protein and drug drying. It is still the best drying method to obtain high‐quality biological products. The objective of this paper was to optimize the FD process of litchi pulp. The significance of this research can improve the efficiency of FD in litchi pulp drying. Throughout the trial, the production‐scale vacuum freeze‐dryer was used, which means that the FD process can provide technological support to produce freeze‐dried litchi pulp. In addition, it can also provide a reference for other fruits and vegetables' FD process optimization.
The Influence of Clay Zones on Land Subsidence from Groundwater Pumping
Authors: Budhu Muniram , Adiyaman Ibrahim
Published: April 2012

The objective of this article is to analyze the influence of clay zones on subsidence from groundwater pumping. Finite element analyses were conducted on a sand‐only aquifer and a sand aquifer with two clay zones located at different distances from the well face. A model that accounts for recoverable and nonrecoverable strains was used to simulate the sand and clay. This model couples the groundwater flow with the stress‐deformation response of the aquifer materials. Each aquifer was pumped from a single well for a period of 6 months, and then the groundwater level was lowered gradually to an elevation below the elevation of the clay zones and kept there for 10 years. The groundwater level was then raised gradually back to the original elevation over a period of 10 years. The results of the analyses show that the ground surface subsidence profile is strongly influenced by the presence of the clays zones. The ground surface sags where these clay zones are present resulting in a wavy ground surface profile. Subsidence continued when pumping is stopped, albeit at a much slower rate than during pumping, and when the groundwater level is below the elevation of the clay zones. Clay zones further away from the well face lag the subsidence of clay zones nearer the well face because of lower changes in hydrostatic head. Sags in ground surface subsidence profile from groundwater pumping are indicators of the presence of low hydraulic conductive geological materials.
Assessment of the value of quantitative thyroid scintigraphy for determination of thyroid function in dogs
Authors: Shiel R. E. , Pinilla M. , McAllister H. , Mooney C. T.
Published: April 2012

Objective: To assess the value of thyroid scintigraphy to determine thyroid status in dogs with hypothyroidism and various non‐thyroidal illnesses.

Methods: Thyroid hormone concentrations were measured and quantitative thyroid scintigraphy performed in 21 dogs with clinical and/or clinicopathological features consistent with hypothyroidism.

Results: In 14 dogs with technetium thyroidal uptake values consistent with euthyroidism, further investigations supported non‐thyroidal illness.

In five dogs with technetium thyroidal uptake values within the hypothyroid range, primary hypothyroidism was confirmed as the only disease in four. The remaining dog had pituitary‐dependent hyperadrenocorticism.

Two dogs had technetium thyroidal uptake values in the non‐diagnostic range. One dog had iodothyronine concentrations indicative of euthyroidism. In the other, a dog receiving glucocorticoid therapy, all iodothyronine concentrations were decreased.

Markedly asymmetric technetium thyroidal uptake was present in two dogs. All iodothyronine concentrations were within reference interval but canine thyroid stimulating hormone concentration was elevated in one. Non‐thyroidal illness was identified in both cases.

ClinicalSignificance: In dogs, technetium thyroidal uptake is a useful test to determine thyroid function. However, values may be non‐diagnostic, asymmetric uptake can occur and excess glucocorticoids may variably suppress technetium thyroidal uptake and/or thyroid hormone concentrations. Further studies are necessary to evaluate quantitative thyroid scintigraphy as a gold standard method for determining canine thyroid function.
Severe dermatophytosis due to Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. interdigitale in flocks of green iguanas (Iguana iguana)
Authors: Khosravi A. R. , Shokri H. , Rostami A. , Tamai I. A. , Erfanmanesh A. , Memarian I.
Published: April 2012

Objective: To describe the clinical, mycological, histopathological and molecular findings in green iguanas (Iguana iguana) affected with severe dermatophytosis in selected flocks near Tehran, Iran.

Materials and Methods: Samples were collected from the scales of skin lesions and tested with standard mycological methods and dermatophyte‐specific PCR amplification analysis using the primer pair for the chitin synthase 1(CHS1) gene.

Results: All iguanas were definitively diagnosed with dermatophytosis using both traditional and molecular diagnostic methods. PCR fingerprinting profiles using simple repetitive (GACA)4 primers showed that all diagnosed iguanas had the same pattern profile. Intraspecific variability was not observed for these isolates. Oligonucleotide sequencing of CHS1 gene PCR products confirmed Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. interdigitale as the infectious agent.

Clinical Significance: These results suggest that (GACA)4‐based PCR has utility both as a simple and rapid method for identification of dermatophyte species and for differentiation of T. mentagrophytes variants.
Enactments in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy: Shaping Moments of Contact and Change
Authors: Tilley Douglas , Palmer Gail
Published: April 2012

Emotionally focused couple therapy (EFT) uses enactments to shape responsive attachment‐significant contact and to change couple interaction. In this article, we show how EFT enactments differ from enactments in other therapy approaches, present a theory of EFT enactments, a model for creating EFT enactments, and an extended case example of an EFT enactment.

Video Abstract
The IUCN global assessments: partnerships, collaboration and data sharing for biodiversity science and policy
Authors: Lacher Thomas E. , Boitani Luigi , da Fonseca Gustavo A.B.
Published: April 2012

The development of standards, data sharing, and initiatives like the Global Biodiversity Information Facility and others have advanced research in many fields, including in conservation of biodiversity. Global assessments of extinction risk to species have been completed by IUCN for multiple taxa. The IUCN global assessments have had a major impact on conservation science and practice as well as biodiversity funding mechanisms though the Global Environment Facility, the World Bank, and the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF). A signature of the assessments is a process of sustained interaction between conservation organizations and the research and academic community, effectively integrating science and policy on global scale. The model relies on several critical components: openness of the conservation community to scientific input and debate, engagement of the scientific community, conservation organization mediated data collation, and data sharing with ease of access. This model can be applied to other challenges to conserve biodiversity and assess how biodiversity loss affects the well‐being of societies across the world. The recognition of the importance of biodiversity in meeting the Millennium Development Goals and the recognition of the failure to meet the 2010 Biodiversity Target illustrate the gap between what needs to be achieved and our current trajectory.
Kallikrein Gene Transfer Induces Angiogenesis and Further Improves Regional Cerebral Blood Flow in the Early Period After Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion in Rats
Authors: Lu Rui‐Yan , Luo Dan‐Feng , Xiao Song‐Hua , Yang Lian‐Hong , Zhao Jia , Ji Er‐Ni , Tao En‐Xiang , Xing Yi‐Gang , Zhu Feng‐Ying , Luan Ping , Liu Jun
Published: April 2012

SUMMARY  Aims: The aims of this study were to find out whether kallikrein could induce angiogenesis and affect the cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in the early period after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (CI/R). Methods: The adenovirus carried human tissue kallikrein (HTK) gene was administrated into the periinfarction region after CI/R. At 12, 24, and 72 h after treatments, neurological deficits were evaluated; expression of HTK and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were detected by immunohistochemistry staining; the infarction volume was measured; and rCBF was examined by 14C‐iodoantipyrine microtracing technique. Results: The expression of VEGF was enhanced significantly in pAdCMV‐HTK group than controls over all time points (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the rCBF in pAdCMV‐HTK group increased markedly than controls at 24 and 72 h after treatment (P < 0.05), and the improved neurological deficit was accompanied by reduced infarction volume in pAdCMV‐HTK group 24 and 72 h posttreatment. Conclusion: In the early period after CI/R, kallikrein could induce the angiogenesis and improve rCBF in periinfarction region, and further reduce the infarction volume and improve the neurological deficits.
AQP4 Knockout Aggravates Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in Mice
Authors: Zeng Xiao‐Ning , Xie Lu‐Lu , Liang Rui , Sun Xiu‐Lan , Fan Yi , Hu Gang
Published: April 2012

SUMMARY  Background and Purpose: The glial water channel aquaporin‐4 (AQP4) has been shown to be involved in a wide range of brain disorders. Although its important role in stroke has already been documented, the underlying mechanism was not clarified yet. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the impacts of AQP4 deletion in ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). Methods and Results: Herein we found a higher mortality and more severe neurological deficits in AQP4 knockout (AQP4−/−) mice after transient middle cerebral artery occlusion while no difference was observed in water content variation during I/R between two genotypes except a higher basal water content developed in AQP4−/− mouse brain, implying the same increment of water content over a higher basal level may provoke an even more elevated intracranial pressure, which might be an important cause of increased mortality in AQP4−/− mice. Moreover, AQP4 knockout aggravated I/R injury with enlarged infarct size and a more serious loss of CA1 neurons accompanied by a striking hypertrophy of astrocytes, suggesting an involvement of AQP4 in astrocytic dysfunction. Conclusions: Our findings provide direct evidence that AQP4 plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of I/R injury, which may confer a new option for stroke treatment.
Continual Transcranial Doppler in the Monitoring of Hemodynamic Change following Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Bian Li‐Heng , Liu Li‐Ping , Wang Wen‐Juan , Wang Chun‐Xue , Yang Zhong‐Hua , Song Xin‐Jie , Wen Miao , Liu Gai‐Fen , Zhao Xing‐Quan
Published: April 2012

Aims: To analyze and compare the value of different treatment methods for acute aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH)‐related vasospasm. Cerebral hemodynamic variables’ changes were evaluated by transcranial Doppler (TCD) in aSAH patients within 14 days after onset. Methods: Thirty aSAH patients were enrolled in the study within 72 h after onset. Baseline CT and TCD were used for assessment. Patients were divided into three groups according to SAH severity and patients’ discretion: nonsurgical group, endovascular coiling, and neurosurgical clipping. TCD hemodynamic parameters were measured and Lindegaard index was calculated daily from onset to 14th day after SAH. The group mean cerebral blood velocity (MBFV) and Lindegaard index were compared using repeated measures analysis of variance (reANOVA). Least Significant Difference (LSD) test was used for post hoc comparison. All 30 patients were followed for 90 days after onset for outcome assessment. Results: The values of MBFV and Lindegaard index of anterior cerebral artery (ACA)/middle cerebral artery (MCA) from high to low is nonsurgical group, clipping and coiling (ACA: P= 0.0001/P= 0.006; MCA: P= 0.243/P= 0.317). Conclusions: These results indicate that both neurosurgical clipping and endovascular coiling management may relieve the severity of cerebral vasospasm in acute aSAH.
Depression in the elderly: A review and update
Authors: Casey David A.
Published: April 2012

Depression is a major source of suffering and disability among the elderly. It may be overlooked among elders because of its co‐occurrence with the aging process, grief, dementia, and medical illness. The author reviewed the field in 1994, and in this paper describes important developments of the past two decades. These include evolving concepts in diagnosis such as minor depression, vascular depression, and the depression of Alzheimer's disease. Complex inter‐relationships among depression and medical diseases have been explored, especially cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease. During this period selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors have largely replaced tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors, while electroconvulsive therapy has continued to be utilized. Repetitive transcranial stimulation is in its infancy and its role in geriatric depression is being defined. Developments in psychotherapy have solidified its place in the treatment of geriatric depression, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy.