bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brahmanical Idealism, Anarchical Individualism, and the Dynamics of Indian Negotiating Behavior
Authors: Kumar Rajesh
Published: May 2004

The article analyzes the implications of the Indian mindset on the dynamics of Indian negotiating behavior. I argue that the constructs of Brahmanical idealism and anarchical individualism capture the nature of the Indian mindset. Brahmanical idealism reflects the tendency of the decision makers to seek the most perfect solution. Any discrepancies between the realities of the external world and the logic of the inner world as manifested through a search for the ideal solution are not problematical for it is only the inner world that defines the true reality. If Brahmanical idealism focuses on the purity of the mental world, anarchical individualism lays emphasis on the primacy of attaining the ideal solution through absolutist forms of interpersonal behavior. That is to say, since each individual is engaged in searching for the ideal solution, and furthermore, as each individual’s ideal solution is either no better or no worse than that of their counterpart, the attainment of this ideal is problematic because under these conditions cooperative behavior is a rarity. In this sense, anarchic individualism fragments rather than enhances total effort, thereby draining energy away from the system. I analyze the impact of this mindset on the Indian negotiating dynamics and outline the implications of the framework developed here for the theory and practice of cross cultural management. Implications for negotiating with Indian businesspeople are also discussed.
The Impact of Diverse National Values on Strategic Investment Decisions in the Context of Globalization
Authors: Carr Chris , Harris Simon
Published: May 2004

This study examines the effect of diverse national values on strategic investment decision (SID) making in the context of industry globalization. Whilst previous single country studies of strategic decision making have highlighted the effect of variables such as uncertainty, environmental stability, competition intensity and organizational position, we argue that diverse national values are also critical, albeit tempered by convergence pressures arising from globalization. Our incipient model, recognizing research from both these fields, is explored in closely matched automotive components businesses, one German, one American, one British and one Japanese. Transcripts of interviews focusing on recent SIDs were analysed against protocols generated from the alternative propositions. We found considerable diversity associated with differences in national values in respect to techniques, but also some points of convergence in respect to other process aspects driven by common industrial globalization pressures.
Narratives of Social Enterprise
Authors: Froggett Lynn , Chamberlayne Prue
Published: May 2004

Biographical methods are commonly regarded as suitable for the narrative study of individual lives. This article, drawing on a psychosocial case study of narratives in a community development setting, demonstrates their potential to make links between interpersonal, organizational and policy domains. The analysis questions the adequacy of notions of ‘social enterprise’ and ‘active citizenship’ to characterize activism, leadership and engagement in disadvantaged communities. By focusing on the intersection of personal and organizational narratives and the dynamic reflexivity of the interpretive process, the article also points to the capacity of biographical methods to enhance professional skills and understanding, and bring a newly dynamic relationship between research, policy and practice.
The Use of Vignettes in Qualitative Research into Social Work Values
Authors: Wilks Tom
Published: May 2004

Values play an important role in the construction of social workers’ professional identities. However current accounts of social work ethics can have difficulty in providing an account of social work values in practice that incorporates the complexity and reflexive nature of much value talk in social care. Direct research in this area has been very limited. Where it has been carried out quantitative research using vignettes has been an important approach. Vignettes have many advantages when used to examine ethical dilemmas. Their increasing use in qualitative research offers new possibilities in exploring values that might generate more complex and sophisticated understandings of social work ethics.
Doing Narrative Research
Authors: Fraser Heather
Published: May 2004

This article seeks to contribute to discussions about how narrative analysis might be undertaken. I do this by exploring one method of narrative approach to analyse personal stories. Before considering some of the issues associated with narrative research, I comment on the rise of the ‘narrative moment’. I then provide ways to conceptualize narrative research. In the final part of the discussion, I discuss ways to conduct narrative research. In so doing, I provide concrete details about how personal stories might be analysed line by line.
Students’ Global Awareness and Attitudes to Internationalism in a World of Cultural Convergence
Authors: Clarke Velta
Published: May 2004

This study is an investigation of the degree to which students possess the attitudes and beliefs for living in a world where national cultures are converging and civilization is becoming more international. It surveyed a sample of 701 college students to ascertain their global awareness and attitudes to internationalism. The research found that students had average levels of global awareness, and mixed beliefs about the United States’ involvement with other countries. The study postulated that international education will be the norm in the future.
Parental Choice in the Buenos Aires Bilingual School Market
Authors: Potter Diana , Hayden Mary
Published: May 2004

The issue of parental choice of school for their child has been a topical one in many contexts worldwide, and work has been undertaken in a number of national contexts to investigate the many factors at work in influencing such choice. This article considers parental choice within the specific context of bilingual (Spanish/ English) schools in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and, on the basis of questionnaires and interviews with parents in two such schools, draws conclusions about the factors which lead to a particular school being selected for the education of children in this context.
Rape Is...
Authors: Bryant-Davis Thema
Published: May 2004

The film Rape Is... takes the audience on a powerful journey of feeling, contemplation, and education about sexual violence. The viewers walk away from the film with some key educational components. They learn that rape is a prevalent and damaging crime that affects people of all backgrounds. The audience also sees that perpetrators vary in relationship to survivor as well as in demographics and method of force. Viewers also learn the emotional, cognitive, relational, and physical effects of rape. There is a need for effective educational materials on rape prevention and intervention. This film helps to fill the need for these resources.
A Systematic Research Synthesis of EMDR Studies
Authors: Hertlein Katherine M. , Ricci Ronald J.
Published: May 2004

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychological treatment method used primarily for people who have experienced trauma. This article provides a systematic research synthesis of EMDR studies targeting trauma symptomatology published between 1997 and 2003. This synthesis builds on the Revised Gold Standard (RGS) as a guide to evaluate empirical EMDR studies. Modifications and additions to the RGS criteria are proposed. The resulting standard is referred to as the Platinum Standard (PS). Sixteen EMDR studies are reviewed and critiqued using the PS criteria. None of the studies reviewed met full PS criteria. The mean score for the studies on the PS was 8.28, with 9 of the studies exceeding the mean. The review calls for researchers to employ more rigorous research designs for EMDR effectiveness using PS criteria. Implications for practice, policy, and research are discussed.
Worker-Trainers as Evaluators: A Case Study of a Union-Based Health and Safety Education Program
Authors: Daltuva Judith A. , Williams Melina , Vazquez Luis , Robins Thomas G. , Fernandez Jennifer A.
Published: May 2004

The United Automobile Workers uses worker-trainers to deliver health and safety education training to its members. The union has experimented with worker-trainers participating in program evaluation. Worker-trainers participated in the design and conduct of a telephone survey of training impact, and of an on-site survey of trainee perceptions of a large-scale program. Worker evaluators were able to analyze data and give a highly successful presentation of results to trainees at the large-scale program. The incorporation of workers as evaluators is a key step toward the goal of worker empowerment. The involvement of program participants in their program’s evaluation can enhance the quality and usefulness of work-site health and safety programs in general.
Using Multilevel, Multisource Needs Assessment Data for Planning Community Interventions
Authors: Levy Susan R. , Anderson Emily E. , Issel L. Michele , Willis Marilyn A. , Dancy Barbara L. , Jacobson Kristin M. , Fleming Shirley G. , Copper Elizabeth S. , Berrios Nerida M. , Sciammarella Esther , Ochoa Mónica , Hebert-Beirne Jennifer
Published: May 2004

African Americans and Latinos share higher rates of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes compared with Whites. These diseases have common risk factors that are amenable to primary and secondary prevention. The goal of the Chicago REACH 2010–Lawndale Health Promotion Project is to eliminate disparities related to CVD and diabetes experienced by African Americans and Latinos in two contiguous Chicago neighborhoods using a community-based prevention approach. This article shares findings from the Phase 1 participatory planning process and discusses the implications these findings and lessons learned may have for programs aiming to reduce health disparities in multiethnic communities. The triangulation of data sources from the planning phase enriched interpretation and led to more creative and feasible suggestions for programmatic interventions across the four levels of the ecological framework. Multisource data yielded useful information for program planning and a better understanding of the cultural differences and similarities between African Americans and Latinos.
Engaging Youth through Photovoice
Authors: Strack Robert W. , Magill Cathleen , McDonagh Kara
Published: May 2004

The photovoice process aims to use photographic images taken by persons with little money, power, or status to enhance community needs assessments, empower participants, and induce change by informing policy makers of community assets and deficits. This article describes a youth photovoice project implemented in an after-school program that attempted to adapt the photovoice method to youth participants, test the effectiveness of the method with youth, and develop and refine a curriculum for replication. A process such as photovoice provides youth the opportunity to develop their personal and social identities and can be instrumental in building social competency. Youth should and need to be given the opportunity to build and confirm their abilities, to comment on their experiences and insights, and to develop a social morality for becoming a positive agent within their communities and society. For more examples of photos taken by the youth during this project, visit http://www.jhsph.edu/youthphotovoice.
Setting Objectives for Community and Systems Change: An Application of Concept Mapping for Planning a Statewide Health Improvement Initiative
Authors: Trochim William M. K. , Milstein Bobby , Wood Betty J. , Jackson Susan , Pressler Virginia
Published: May 2004

The Hawaii Department of Health (HDOH) used concept mapping techniques to engage local stakeholders and national subject area experts in defining the community and system factors that affect individuals’ behaviors related to tobacco, nutrition, and physical activity. Over eight working days, project participants brainstormed 496 statements (edited to a final set of 90), which were then sorted and rated for their importance and feasibility. A sequence of multivariate statistical analyses, including multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis, generated maps and figures that were then interpreted by project stakeholders. The results were immediately incorporated into an official plan, approved by the governor and state legislature, recommending how Hawaii’s tobacco settlement resources could be used to create sustainable changes in population health. The results also provide empirical support for the premise that both community and systems factors ought to be considered when planning comprehensive health improvement initiatives.
Using the Case-Study Methodology to Teach Ethics to Public Health Students
Authors: Howard Donna E. , Lothen-Kline Christine , Boekeloo Bradley O.
Published: May 2004

This article uses the case-study methodology as a strategy to facilitate examination of ethical principles that underlie developmental risk research carried out among adolescents. Description of the ethical dilemmas that arose during the implementation of a longitudinal randomized controlled trial is presented along with discussion guidelines. As youth were being enrolled and the trial was being conducted, it was noted that a small but significant number had responded “yes” to a question on suicidal ideation. After review by the Institutional Review Boards overseeing the trial, it was decided that confidentiality had to be breached. A revised protocol was implemented explicitly stating that confidentiality would be broken if a youth reported suicidal ideation. The number of youth reporting suicidal ideation after the consent form was amended decreased significantly. Presentation of this research by use of the case study method sensitizes students to issues that arise at the intersection of disease prevention and health promotion intervention research.
Taking the Path Less Traveled: The Nontraditional Doctorate
Authors: Colbin Annemarie , Pirozzi Sam , Hayden Joanna
Published: May 2004

There are a number of options available for those who wish to pursue a doctoral degree. In addition to the traditional method of attending classes at a brick and mortar institution, this article describes two of those options. One is a combination of the traditional and nontraditional Internet and on-line approach. The other is a nontraditional route to the doctorate that is completely Internet based. Both options haves merits and suit different people for different reasons. This article describes each of these alternative routes to the doctorate through the words and experiences of two professionals who have followed paths less traveled.
Lobbying Strategies, Venue Selection, and Organized Interest Involvement at the U.S. Supreme Court
Authors: Hansford Thomas G.
Published: May 2004

When and why will organized interests choose to lobby the U.S. Supreme Court by submitting amicus curiae briefs? This article argues that organized interests are most likely to lobby the Court when conditions increase their expectation of influencing the Court’s policy outputs. However, when deciding which policy venue to lobby, organized interests that rely on membership support will also have to consider the effect of their lobbying decisions on their ability to attract and retain members. Analysis of the amicus curiae brief filings of 579 organized interests suggests that an interest is more likely to submit amicus briefs at the Supreme Court when the Court is receptive to the positions advocated by the interest and the interest has participated at the Court in the past. The results also indicate that membership-based groups will take into account the extent to which relevant cases have been covered by the media when choosing whether to lobby the Court.
Class, Party, and South/Non-South Differences
Authors: Nadeau Richard , Niemi Richard G. , Stanley Harold W. , Godbout Jean-François
Published: May 2004

This article examines the past 50 years to update an analysis of the relationship between income and partisanship. Earlier, Nadeau and Stanley noted that therewas a change in partisanship in the South from inverse class polarization, in which higher income individuals more often identified with the Democratic Party, to normal class polarization, but the permanence of the shiftwas open to question. Now, with a longer time perspective and even greater partisan change, it can be concluded that class-based partisanship is not only a reality in the South but that it is now considerably stronger than in the rest of the country. Moreover, the South has not simply surged past a stable non-Southern level; greater polarization in the South has occurred in the context of growing class polarization in the non-South.
Racializing Identity: Performance, Pedagogy, and Regret
Authors: Alexander Bryant Keith
Published: May 2004

This performative article/script serves as an extended functional definition and a practical exploration of the notion of ”racializing identity.” Through a series of individually labeled autopoetic movements, the performative article/script creates a typology that compares and analyzes the foci of each form, facilitating the definition and exposing the socially constructed intersection between race and Black queer identity. The performative article/script begins to question the limitations of race as a specified method of categorizing bodies and more specifically questions the conceptualization of “performing race” as a sign of racial authenticity.
War Talk, the Death of the Social, and Disappearing Children: Remembering the Other War
Authors: Giroux Henry
Published: May 2004

The war against terrorism is part and parcel of the war against democracy at home. This article argues that the war with Iraq will change the way the United States relates to the rest of the world as well as how it addresses the most pressing problems Americans face in their everyday lives. But the danger we face as a nation is not only related to the war in Iraq, it is also related to the silent war at home, especially because the Iraqi war and the war against terrorism are being financed from cuts in domestic funding on health care, children’s education, and other public services. It would be a tragic mistake for those of us on the left either to separate the war in Iraq from the many problems Americans face at home or fail to recognize how war is being waged by this government on multiple fronts.
Remembering a Cool September: Pain, Prejudice, and Patriotism
Authors: Tillmann-Healy Lisa M.
Published: May 2004

This ethnographic short story chronicles the author’s emotional journey following September 11, 2001. After weeks of disconnection, she encounters a display of patriotism by two gay male friends, provoking her to process what it means to be both patriotic and gay in contemporary U.S. culture.
The Partly Cloudy Presidency
Authors: Giardina Michael D.
Published: May 2004

Written against the backdrop of jingoistic patriotism, the “War on Terror” marketing slogan, and the draconian neoconservative agenda currently dominating American cultural politics, the author seeks to police the crisis of these wayward times through a series of narrative collages that intersect with and comment on our current historical conjuncture. Deploying quotes from and engaging in dialogue with voices from popular culture as a means of critiquing the false hall of mirrors that has become the Bush administration’s prevailing model of “truth” in post-9/11 America, the author’s words stand as a resounding alternative to the unquestioning voices of appeasement currently dominating mainstream corporate media.
Ruthless Compassion
Authors: Peterson Chris
Published: May 2004

Although addiction helps control overwhelming instinctual affective states, it also rises out of the premature need to take responsibility for one’s own existence that results from a deficiency in the containing function of the mother/infant relationship. This case presents a patient who was vulnerable to addiction because of this deficiency. The roles of narcissistic rage and annihilation anxiety are examined. Alcohol was used to avoid human dependency and to restore a sense of power and control these unbearable feelings. Addiction is used to sustain the fantasy that the addict’s internal space can be omnipotently controlled. It is argued that if the goal of therapy is to help the alcoholic better tolerate powerful affective states and attain or regain healthy narcissism, then there is a need to help the addict develop a sense of dignity based on real relationships and accomplishments in place of fleeting feelings of omnipotence supplied by the alcohol.
Gene Therapy in the Treatment of Lower Extremity Wounds
Authors: Theopold Christoph , Yao Feng , Eriksson Elof
Published: May 2004

This article presents a brief overview of the etiology of chronic wounds of the lower extremities and their current medical and surgical treatment. Gene therapy as a potential tool for treating therapeutically challenging wounds is described in terms of the vectors employed in gene transfer, as well as the strategies used to promote wound healing. Results from animal model studies, as well as clinical trials, are presented.
Theory and Research on Desistance from Antisocial Activity among Serious Adolescent Offenders
Authors: Mulvey Edward P. , Steinberg Laurence , Fagan Jeffrey , Cauffman Elizabeth , Piquero Alex R. , Chassin Laurie , Knight George P. , Brame Robert , Schubert Carol A. , Hecker Thomas , Losoya Sandra H.
Published: May 2004

Improving juvenile court decision making requires information about how serious adolescent offenders desist from antisocial activity. A systematic research agenda on this topic requires consideration of several processes, including normative development in late adolescence, what constitutes desistance, and the factors likely to promote the end of involvement in antisocial behavior and successful adjustment in early adulthood. This article presents an overview of the major points to consider in pursuing this research agenda.
Congenital Hepatic Arteriovenous Malformation
Authors: Botha Tracey , Rasmussen Olga , Carlan S. J. , Greenbaum Lennard
Published: May 2004

Hepatic arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a rare developmental vascular disorder characterized by direct arterial connection to a fistulous venous drainage system within the liver. The condition results in a high-flow, low-resistance shunt that can cause high-output cardiac failure and hydrops. Prenatal diagnosis is possible when sonography detects multiple engorged vascular channels in the fetal liver. Current treatment options include postnatal obliteration of the arterial feeder vessels by surgical ligation or percutaneous transcatheter embolization with detachable coils. The authors present a case of a prenatally diagnosed hepatic AVM complicated by fetal distress, high-output cardiac failure, and consumptive coagulopathy that had recanalization of feeder vessels noted two weeks after initial successful coil placement.
Sonographic Evaluation of Niemann-Pick Disease Type C
Authors: Twarling Ann , Michael Kim , Berg Jody
Published: May 2004

Niemann-Pick disease type C (NPC) is an autosomal, recessive lipid storage disease that can present in infants, children, and adults. Harmful quantities of lipids accumulate in the spleen, liver, lungs, bone marrow, and, in some patients, the brain. Infiltration of the lipid component can cause organs, vessels, and surrounding tissues to lose their function with advancement of the disease. The elevated levels of lipids lead to irreversible damage of the organs and organ failure, resulting in death. Sonographic evaluation of patients with NPC provides valuable information on the progression of this disease.
The Use of Sonography to Diagnose Heart Arrhythmias in the Fetus
Authors: Dunn Karie , Anderson Joseph C. , Michael Kim , Berg Jody
Published: May 2004

An arrhythmia is a disturbance in the normal rhythm of the heart. Heart rhythms are generated by the sinoatrial (SA) node and travel through the heart’s conduction system, causing the atrial and ventricular myocardium to contract and relax at a regular rate. If there is a disturbance in the electrical system of the heart, it can be detected in utero by using M-mode sonography. It is important to diagnose a fetal arrhythmia early in pregnancy. If the arrhythmia persists, it can lead to congestive heart failure and hydrops.
Infant Affect During Parent—Infant Interaction at 3 and 6 Months: Differences Between Mothers and Fathers and Influence of Parent History of Depression
Authors: Forbes Erika E. , Cohn Jeffrey F. , Allen Nicholas B. , Lewinsohn Peter M.
Published: May 2004

Fifty families participated in mother‐infant and father‐infant still‐face interaction at infant ages 3 and 6 months as part of a study of affect in early parent‐infant relationships. Infants' positive and negative affect and parents' positive affect and physical play were coded from videotapes. Consistent with previous research, during the normal condition, mothers displayed more positive affect than did fathers, and fathers were more likely than mothers to display physical play. Infants were more positive with mothers than with fathers. Parents' positive affect but not parent gender predicted infants' positive affect at 6 months. During the still‐face condition, infants of parents with a lifetime history of depression were more likely to display negative affect and less likely to display positive affect than infants with no such parent history. Infants' affect was unrelated to parents' current level of depressive symptoms, which indicates the value of considering family history of psychopathology when examining individual differences in infants' affect.
2½‐Year‐Old Children Use Animacy and Syntax to Learn a New Noun
Authors: Childers Jane B. , Echols Catharine H.
Published: May 2004

We examine how attention to animacy information may contribute to children's developing knowledge of language. This research extends beyond prior research in that children were shown dynamic events with novel entities, and were asked not only to comprehend sentences but to use sentence structure to infer the meaning of a new word. In a 4 × 3 design, animacy status (e.g., animate agent, inanimate patient) and labeling syntax (agent, patient, nonlabel control) were varied. Across most events, 2 1/2‐year‐old participants responded as if they expected animate entities to be named. However, in a prototypical (animate agent‐inanimate patient) event condition, children responded differentially across different syntactic structures. Thus, the clearest evidence for attention to syntactic cues was found in the prototypical event condition. These results suggest that young children attend to the animacy status of unfamiliar entities, that they have expectations about animacy relations in events, and that these expectations support emerging syntactic knowledge.
A finite element study of piston tilt effects on piston ring dynamics in internal combustion engines
Authors: Kurbet S N , Kumar R K
Published: May 2004

The motion of the piston and rings strongly influences lubrication and blow-by in a reciprocating engine. Three-dimensional finite element models of single-cylinder and four-cylinder internal combustion (IC) engines are developed to analyse the piston and ring motions. The ring motion in the radial and axial directions and the ring twist, along with the end gap size variation, are studied in detail. Results are compared with those obtained by neglecting piston secondary motions. A comparative analysis of piston and ring motions between the single-cylinder and four-cylinder engines has also been performed. It has been found that the predicted ring motion of a single-cylinder engine is different from that of a multicylinder engine. The conclusion is that piston tilt has a profound effect on the end gap variation, the ring twist and the ring lift.
Neurosurgical teleconsultations in northern Norway
Authors: Stormo Anders , Sollid Snorre , Størmer Jan , Ingebrigtsen Tor
Published: May 2004

We carried out a prospective study of the effect of neurosurgical teleconsultations on patient management in northern Norway. The total number of teleradiology image transfers during an eight-month study period was 723. We recorded data on 99 (14%) of these teleconsultations, which concerned 92 patients; the remainder were transfers to other departments at our hospital and transfers of routine examinations from a small community hospital that did not have a radiologist. The neurosurgeon on call noted the clinical condition and response time for each consultation. The consequences of the teleconsultation and the eventual benefits of the image transfer were evaluated. All 10 referring hospitals in the region used the service. The median response time was 3 hours (range 1–21 hours) in emergency cases and 1 day (range 1–7 days) in ordinary consultations. The response time was significantly shorter for patients with head injuries (median 3 hours) than for those with intracranial tumours (median 24 hours). Image transfer was considered beneficial for the patient in 93% of the cases. Avoidance of unnecessary patient transfer, changes of treatment at the referring hospital on the advice of the neurosurgeon and initiation of emergency transfer occurred in 34%, 42% and 13% of cases, respectively. The results confirm that teleconsultations between referring hospitals and a regional neurosurgical service influence patient management and reduce the frequency of patient transfer.
Telemedicine for multidisciplinary lung cancer meetings
Authors: Davison A G , Eraut C D , Haque A S , Doffman S , Tanqueray A , Trask C W , Lamont A , Uppal R , Sharma A
Published: May 2004

According to recent UK guidelines on the management of lung cancer, all cases should be reviewed prospectively by a lung cancer multidisciplinary team (MDT) and a thoracic surgeon should be readily available to liaise with the MDT. However, there is a shortage of thoracic surgeons in the UK. Over a one-year period, 28 MDT meetings were held at a district general hospital in Southend, at which 62 patients were presented to a tertiary cardiothoracic centre in London, 80 km away, via ISDN videoconferencing at 384 kbit/s. The annual resection rate increased by 30% following the introduction of the telemedicine MDT meetings, and the mean time from first being seen in the clinic to surgery was reduced from 69 to 54 days. We estimate that the telemedicine meetings saved over three working weeks of thoracic surgical time during the year.
A telemedicine system for collaborative work on radiographic coronary video-images
Authors: Zhang Run , Yamauchi Kazunobu , Nonogawa Makoto , Ikeda Mitsuru , Zhang Wenping , Huang Damin
Published: May 2004

We designed a telemedicine system that supports collaborative work on video-images from coronary cine-angiograms and cine-ventriculograms. Two workstations were connected by ISDN at 128 kbit/s. Coronary cine-angiogram and cine-ventriculogram video-images were transmitted to an image examination workstation before the images were required for analysis (i.e. in a 'pre-fetch' operation). If one workstation changed even a single frame in a video-sequence, then the change was transmitted to the other workstation, rather than the entire video-sequence. To evaluate the performance of the system, the diagnoses made by five cardiology specialists were compared with those recorded in the original report. Coronary cine-angiogram and cine-ventriculogram video-images from 27 patients were used. The cardiologists, who were blinded to the patient information, regenerated the video-images on the workstation and assessed coronary arterial stenosis and wall motion. The kappa scores for clinician agreement with the original reports for ratings of stenosis were 0.54-0.66 and for wall motion were 0.41-0.69. The system performed reasonably reliably and it therefore appears likely to be useful in telemedicine work.
Designing a framework for the evaluation of paediatric telepsychiatry: a participatory approach
Authors: Boydell Katherine M , Greenberg Natasha , Volpe Tiziana
Published: May 2004

While there is a great deal of interest in evaluating participants' experiences of teleconsultation programmes, specific frameworks for such evaluations are scarce. We have conducted a multi-stage consultation to develop a framework for the study of a paediatric telepsychiatry programme. Emphasis was placed on ensuring the participation of stakeholders in the design and response stage of the evaluation. A three-part approach was taken that comprised an opinion scan, focus groups and individual interviews. This resulted in the identification of specific areas of enquiry for the evaluation. One of the key points to emerge was that attending to context is vital. In the case of telepsychiatry, it is critical to understand the nuances of the local community for whom consultations are being provided. This involves considering the 'social ecology' of each evaluation site. The evaluation should take the form of a dialogue between the evaluators and those being evaluated, in order to maximize the uptake and integration of its findings. The framework we have developed should be viewed as a guide that is general enough to be used in the design of many different types of telepsychiatry programme.
Schizophrenia as a Cause of Death
Authors: Rosh A , Sampson BA , Hirsch CS
Published: May 2004

Schizophrenia is a chronic disorder that is associated with increased mortality. Although traumatic deaths account for most of this increase, there is also an increased rate of natural deaths in this population. Altered autonomic physiology in this group might contribute to death. To determine if there are schizophrenics in whom, after a complete autopsy, no recognizable cause of death other than schizophrenia is established, the records of the Office of Chief Medical Examiner of the City of New York were reviewed for deaths associated with schizophrenia and a natural manner of death. Six such decedents were identified, and their histories and autopsy results are described. We believe that schizophrenia per se is a potentially lethal disorder. Autonomic irregularities and their interactions with psychotropic drugs deserve further attention.
Population Affinities of 19th Century Cuban Crania: Implications for Identification Criteria in South Florida Cuban Americans
Authors: Ross AH , Slice DE , Ubelaker DH , Falsetti AB
Published: May 2004

Identification criteria, specifically discriminant function formulae derived from traditional craniometrics, currently used in South Florida for Cuban Americans and other “Hispanic” groups, are unsuitable to provide adequate biological profiles due to complex biological histories as well as widely diverse geographic origins. Florida's total population is approximately 16 million (15,982,378) individuals. Of the total population 2,682,715, or 16.8%, are self-identified as “Hispanic”. South Florida (herein defined as Miami-Dade, Broward and Collier Counties) is home to 60% of the total Hispanic population of Florida with 1,291,737 (48.15%) residing in Miami-Dade County.

The Hispanic population of Miami-Dade County makes up 57.0% of the total population of 2,253,362. Each recognized sub-group of Hispanics (Mexican, Puerto Rican, and Cuban) includes its own geographic point-of-origin and population history. Cuban-Americans (arriving in the late 1950's and early 1960's) make up the largest sub-population of Florida's Hispanics in any county and in Miami-Dade number 650,601 or 51% of the total Latin population. Additionally, as in other agricultural states, Florida has a very large population of undocumented workers who primarily arrive from Texas and points south of the Straits of Florida.

Thus the application of the available traditional craniometric and non-metric methods are not appropriate for South Florida's Latin population. To begin to address this issue in relation to South Florida's Cuban population, we present an analysis of cranio-facial shape variation in a 19th Century Cuban sample, 17th Century Spanish sample, a Precontact Cuban sample, and Terry Blacks using geometric morphometric methods. Significant biological shape differences and patterns of variation are observed among the groups. These results provide us with a context in which to begin to understand the biological variation of Cuban Americans, which will enable the development of identification criteria specific for this U.S. hybrid Hispanic community.
Measurement of Chemical Analytes in Vitreous Humor: Stability and Precision Studies
Authors: Gagajewski A , Murakami MM , Kloss J , Edstrom M , Hillyer M , Peterson GF , Amatuzio J , Apple FS
Published: May 2004

The analytic accuracy and precision for measurement of chemical analytes in vitreous humor (VH) are critical if results are to be used in forensic pathology. The purpose of our study was to demonstrate the stability and the reproducibility of VH sodium, potassium, chloride, glucose, urea nitrogen, acetone, and beta-hydroxybutyrate in specimens obtained from both eyes in medical examiner cases. We also compared with calculated VH osmolalities. Small but significant increases were observed in VH electrolyte concentrations in specimens refrigerated 6– 12 months: sodium pre 144 mmol/L, post 151 mmol/L; potassium pre 12.0 mmol/L, post 12.8 mmol/L; chloride pre 121 mmol/L, post 123 mmol/L. No differences were observed between eyes, and within-day precision for all electrolyte measurements were excellent, (<1%). Frozen specimens showed significantly higher measured (439 mOsmol/kg) as compared with calculated osmolality (305 mOsmol/kg), with 1% within-day precision and no significance between eye variation for glucose and urea nitrogen. In 20 of 24 medical cases selected for possible ketoacidosis, measurement of beta-hydroxybutyrate concentrations appears to be a promising diagnostic biomarker for confirming suspected ketosis in medical examiner cases by means of VH analysis.
Fatal Bupivacaine Intoxication Following Unusual Erotic Practices
Authors: Yazzie J , Kelly SC , Zumwalt RE , Kerrigan S
Published: May 2004

A fatal drug overdose is described which involved unusual erotic practices. A 54-year-old male was discovered supine on the floor surrounded by sexual paraphernalia, syringes, and medications including three empty bottles of bupivacaine. Acute and chronic injection sites of the external genitalia with contusions, scarring, focal necrosis, and calcification were present at autopsy. Toxicology revealed femoral blood, heart blood, and vitreous bupivacaine concentrations of 3.8, 2.8 and 1.3 mg/L, respectively. The urine bupivacaine concentration was 11.4 mg/L. The cause of death was attributed to bupivacaine intoxication and the manner of death was accidental.
Erroneous Gender Identification by the Amelogenin Sex Test
Authors: Michael A , Brauner P
Published: May 2004

Human gender identification, based on the amelogenin gene, has important applications in forensic casework, prenatal diagnosis, DNA databasing, and blood sample storage. However, we report on the first known case, in the Israeli population, of an amelogenin sex test failure on a phenotypically normal male. He was typed as a female by both the AmpFℓSTR® SGM plus™ and GenePrint™ kits. Subsequent, karyotyping of the soldier's blood sample showed no abnormalities. These results suggest that the determination of sex, based on the amelogenin test, should be interpreted cautiously.
Evaluation of Ephedrine, Pseudoephedrine and Phenylpropanolamine Concentrations in Human Urine Samples and a Comparison of the Specificity of DRI® Amphetamines and Abuscreen® Online (KIMS) Amphetamines Screening Immunoassays
Authors: Stout PR , Klette KL , Horn CK
Published: May 2004

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of two amphetamine class screening reagents to exclude ephedrine (EPH), pseudoephedrine (PSEPH), and phenylpropanolamine (PPA) from falsely producing positive immunoassay screening results. The study also sought to characterize the prevalence and concentration distributions of EPH, PSEPH, and PPA in samples that produced positive amphetamine screening results. Approximately 27,400 randomly collected human urine samples from Navy and Marine Corps members were simultaneously screened for amphetamines using the DRI® and Abuscreen® online immunoassays at a cutoff concentration of 500 ng/mL. All samples that screened positive were confirmed for amphetamine (AMP), methamphetamine (MTH), 3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA), 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), EPH, PSEPH, and PPA by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The DRI AMP immunoassay identified 1,104 presumptive amphetamine positive samples, of which only 1.99% confirmed positive for the presence of AMP, MTH, MDA, or MDMA. In contrast, the online AMP reagent identified 317 presumptive amphetamine positives with a confirmation rate for AMP, MTH, MDA, or MDMA of 7.94%. The presence of EPH, PSEPH, or PPA was confirmed in 833 of the 1,104 samples that failed to confirm positive for AMP, MTH, MDA, or MDMA; all of the 833 samples contained PSEPH. When compared to the entire screened sample set, PSEPH was present in approximately 3%, EPH in 0.9%, and PPA in 0.8% of the samples. The results indicate that cross reactivities for EPH, PSEPH, and PPA are greater than reported by the manufacturer of these reagents. The distribution of concentrations indicates that very large concentrations of EPH, PSEPH, and PPA are common.
Differentiation of Black Gel Inks Using Optical and Chemical Techniques
Authors: Wilson JD , LaPorte GM , Cantu AA
Published: May 2004

Gel ink pens have become a common writing instrument in the United States. Questioned document examiners often attempt to optically differentiate gel inks from each other and from other non-ballpoint ink writings (e.g., those from roller-ball pens). Since early formulations were primarily pigment-based, they do not elute when analyzed by thin-layer chromatography. However, recent gel ink formulations (i.e., within the past five years) include dye-based inks that can be easily separated. This study differentiates black gel inks using optical and chemical techniques. The techniques include: microscopy, visible and near infrared reflectance, near infrared luminescence, thin-layer chromatography (TLC), spot tests, and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). As a result of this study a flow chart has been developed allowing for a systematic determination of a questioned ink. In addition, an analysis of volatile compounds found in gel inks revealed that there are some unique ingredients that may be found in gel inks that are not typically found in other non-ballpoint inks.
Nutritional Status of Deceased Illicit Drug Addicts in Stockholm, Sweden—A Longitudinal Medicolegal Study
Authors: Rajs J , Petersson A , Thiblin I , Olsson-Mortlock C , Fredriksson Å , Eksborg S
Published: May 2004

Autopsy investigations, toxicological analyses, and calculation of body mass index were performed in 1180 deceased illicit drug addicts (IDAs) in Stockholm, Sweden during 1988–2000, i.e., during a period of time when the general population in numerous countries showed a dramatic increase in the prevalence of overweight. Nutritional deficit in IDAs has been pointed out as a threat to their health as well as to their quality of life.

The prevalence of overweight in deceased IDAs increased from 27.4% in 1988 to 45.5% in 2000. The prevalence of overweight among all heroin users, heroin injectors, methadone, cocaine, and amphetamine users was 36.0, 38.4, 43.1, 45.0 and 50.9%, respectively, the lowest prevalence being among users of cannabis alone and HIV-positive IDAs (22.0 and 16.1%, respectively).

In conclusion, Stockholm's IDAs are affected by the past decade's dramatically increased prevalence of overweight, at least to the same degree as the general population. The increased body weight seems not to influence the danger of dying upon heroin administration.
Genipin—A Novel Fingerprint Reagent with Colorimetric and Fluorogenic Activity
Authors: Almog J , Cohen Y , Azoury M , Hahn T-R
Published: May 2004

Genipin, the hydrolytic product of geniposide, which is extracted from gardenia fruit, shows good potential as a fingerprint reagent. It develops latent fingerprints on paper as blue impressions with good contrast and resolution. Even very faint impressions that are barely visible in ambient light will fluoresce brightly upon illumination at ca. 590 nm and are best viewed with a barrier filter above 630 nm. Potential advantages of genipin are the combination of colorimetric and fluorogenic activity in one reagent as well as its being a safe and environmentally friendly natural product.
A Selection of Some of Dr. McCrone's High and Low Profile Cases in the Forensic Analysis of Art
Authors: Stoney DA
Published: May 2004

Throughout Dr. McCrone's active professional career of over 60 years, he worked on many cases involving the forensic analysis of art. This is an overview of a small portion of these cases. Included (exposed as fakes) are the Shroud of Turin, the Vinland Map, Mayan pottery illustrations and Larionov pastels. Also included, with strong support for authentication, are three paintings attributed to Manet, Giorgione, and Leonardo da Vinci.
Modellbasierte Analyse von Bioimpedanz-Verfahren (Model-based Analysis of Bioimpedance Methods)
Authors: Moissl Ulrich , Wabel Peter , Leonhardt Steffen , Isermann Rolf
Published: May 2004

Diese Arbeit behandelt Möglichkeiten und Grenzen von Impedanz-Verfahren anhand zweier ausgewählter Beispiele: der Bioimpedanzspektroskopie zur Bestimmung von extra- und intrazellulären Flüssigkeitsvolumina, und der Impedanzkardiografie zur Berechnung des Schlagvolumens eines Herzschlages. Schwerpunkt liegt auf der Modellierung der physikalischen Prozesse, die den jeweiligen Verfahren zu Grunde liegen.
Geburtensimulator mit multimodaler Interaktion (Delivery Simulator with Multimodal Interaction)
Authors: Obst Tobias , Burgkart Rainer , Ruckhäberle Eugen , Riener Robert
Published: May 2004

Der Beitrag bietet einen grundlegenden Überblick über das Potential der Techniken der Multimodalen Virtuellen Realität (MVR) in der medizinischen Ausbildung am Beispiel der Geburtshilfe. Die Studie zeigt, wie das Konzept der MVR von einer zeitunabhängigen Simulationsumgebung, z.B. die des Münchner Kniesimulators, auf eine zeitkritische Umgebung, ähnlich eines Flugsimulators, umgesetzt werden kann. Der Simulator verfügt über eine haptische, eine grafische und eine akustische Schnittstelle zum Anwender. Dabei ist sowohl ein biomechanisches Modell, das den Geburtsablauf repräsentiert, als auch ein physiologisches Modell von Mutter und Kind, worin ein Wehenschreiber (CTG) simuliert wird, hinterlegt. Der Anwender kann hierdurch eine komplikationslose Geburt, als auch problematische Geburtsabläufe beobachten und simulativ therapieren. Hierzu stehen ihm als Behandlungsmöglichkeiten die wichtigsten Medikamente als auch die Zangen- bzw. Vakuum-Extraktion zur Verfügung. In dieser praktischen Ausbildung wird der Lernende durch das MVR Feedback-System unterstützt, das ihm seine Fehler aufzeigt und ihm dadurch erlaubt, schneller zu lernen, ohne eine reale Patientin oder den Fetus zu gefährden. Durch dieses Konzept wird es erstmals möglich, gespeichertes haptisches Expertenwissen direkt an den Auszubildenden weiterzugeben.
Bewährte und neue Schwerpunkte auf der Ludwigsburger Sensortagung 2004
Authors: Gerlach Gerald , Kohl Claus-Dieter
Published: May 2004

Tagung "Sensoren und Messsysteme 2004" vom 15. bis 16. März 2004 präsentierte unter anderem das Gebiet Luftgütesensoren