bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Jubogaster towai, a new Neotropical genus and species of Trogastrini (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae) exhibiting myrmecophily and extreme body enlargement
Authors: PARKER JOSEPH , MARUYAMA MUNETOSHI
Published: March 2013

Jubogaster towai gen. et sp. nov. is described from a colony of Pheidole xanthogaster Wilson (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in the Peruvian Amazon. The new taxon is amongst the largest pselaphine species known. Its transverse head implies an affinity with Trogastrini (Pselaphinae: Euplectitae), but J. towai lacks typical characters diagnostic for trogastrines and possesses others, such as a Jubini-like pronotum and equally-sized tarsal claws, that obscure its systematic relationships. To place J. towai phylogenetically, we sequenced a fragment of 28s rDNA for the new species and a range of other pselaphines, including members of Trogastrini and other tribes of Euplectitae. The topology produced by this analysis supports the inclusion of Jubogaster in Trogastrini, thereby indicating that morphology within this tribe can be more malleable than previously thought. Many of the largest pselaphine taxa are guests of social insect colonies. We discuss whether an evolutionary correlation (or causal relationship) exists between body enlargement and an inquilinous lifestyle in Pselaphinae.
Description and ecology of a new species of Eriopeltastes Burmeister & Schaum, 1840 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Cetoniinae: Trichiini), from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: RICCHIARDI ENRICO , PERISSINOTTO RENZO
Published: March 2013

A dedicated “Bioblitz” survey of the Ntinini Nature Reserve was organized and coordinated by Ezemvelo KwaZulu- Natal (EKZN) Wildlife, during the period 16–18 November 2010. The main aim of the Bioblitz was to provide biodiversity data that could assist in assessing the necessity of a formal proclamation for the protection of the reserve, within the scope of the integrated Biodiversity Conservation Planning of EKZN Wildlife
Two new species and one newly recorded species of the genus Kamaka (Crustacea: Amphipoda) from the Hainan Province, South China Sea
Authors: REN XIAN-QIU , SHA ZHONG-LI
Published: March 2013

A total of 5 species of the genus Kamaka (Crustacea: Amphipoda) are identified from Hainan Province, South China Sea. In those, one species, Kamaka excavata Ariyama, 2007, is recorded for the first time in Chinese waters. Two new species, Kamaka corophina sp. n. and Kamaka foliacea sp. n., are described. A key to the Chinese species is provided. They were collected from littoral zone, mud flat in seaweed of mangrove side, brackish water and seawater, sifted out with sieve.
Replacement for a preoccupied Docosia Winnertz (Diptera: Mycetophilidae) name
Authors: KURINA OLAVI , ŠEVČÍK JAN
Published: March 2013

In our recent paper on Palaearctic Docosia Winnertz, 1863, a new species was described under the name Docosia turkmenica Kurina & Ševčík, 2012. The material originated from the Kopet Dag Mountains (Big Bakhcha River) in southwest Turkmenistan and was named for its occurrence in the country (Kurina & Ševčík 2012). Unfortunately, the authors were not aware of a previous paper by Zaitzev (2011) describing two new Docosia species from Turkmenistan (Kara Kala) and Russia (Astrakhan). The species described from Turkmenian material—Docosia turkmenica Zaitzev, 2011—was also named to indicate its origin. Consequently two identical species-group names (primary homonyms) were established for different nominal taxa (see also ICZN: Article 57.2). Therefore, for nomenclatural stability, Docosia trispinosa Kurina & Ševčík nom. nov. is proposed herewith for the invalid junior homonym, Docosia turkmenica Kurina & Ševčík. In addition, D. turkmenica Zaitzev, 2011 has been discussed in respect to the key of the Central Asian species by Kurina & Ševčík (2012).
After eighty years of misidentification, a name for the glass catfish (Teleostei: Siluridae)
Authors: NG HEOK HEE , KOTTELAT MAURICE
Published: March 2013

We resolve the identity of the glass catfish, a species of Asian freshwater fish commonly encountered as an ornamental fish and an experimental subject that has long been misidentified as either Kryptopterus bicirrhis or K. minor. Our study indicates that the glass catfish is an unnamed species distinct from either, which we describe here as Kryptopterus vitreolus. Kryptopterus vitreolus is known from river drainages in peninsular and southeastern Thailand, and is distinguished from congeners in having a combination of: transparent body in life, maxillary barbels reaching beyond the base of the first anal-fin, dorsal profile with a pronounced nuchal concavity, snout length 29–35% head length (HL), eye diameter 28–34% HL, slender body (depth at anus 16–20% standard length (SL)) and caudal peduncle (depth 4–7% SL), 14–18 rakers on the first gill arch, and 48–55 anal-fin rays.
A new genus of Eucharitidae (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea), with notes on life history and immature stages
Authors: TORRÉNS JAVIER , HERATY JOHN M.
Published: March 2013

Neolirata new genus (Eucharitidae: Eucharitini) is recognized based on males and females, with new descriptions of eggs, planidia and pupae. Redescriptions are provided for N. alta (Walker) and N. daguerrei (Gemignani) (comb. nov. trans-ferred from Lirata) and a new description of N. furcula sp. nov. is presented. Females of N. alta deposit their eggs on the underside of leaves of Pseudabutilon virgatum (Cav.) Fryxell (Malvaceae) and N. daguerrei on the underside of Urvillea chacoensis Hunz (Sapindaceae). A key to species is included.
Influence of Stratospheric Sudden Warming on AIRS Midtropospheric CO2
Authors: Jiang Xun , Wang Jingqian , Olsen Edward T. , Pagano Thomas , Chen Luke L. , Yung Yuk L.
Published: March 2013

Midtropospheric CO2 retrievals from the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) were used to explore the influence of stratospheric sudden warming (SSW) on CO2 in the middle to upper troposphere. To choose the SSW events that had strong coupling between the stratosphere and troposphere, the authors applied a principal component analysis to the NCEP/Department of Energy Global Reanalysis 2 (NCEP-2) geopotential height data at 17 pressure levels. Two events (April 2003 and March 2005) that have strong couplings between the stratosphere and troposphere were chosen to investigate the influence of SSW on AIRS midtropospheric CO2. The authors investigated the temporal and spatial variations of AIRS midtropospheric CO2 before and after the SSW events and found that the midtropospheric CO2 concentrations increased by 2–3 ppm within a few days after the SSW events. These results can be used to better understand how the chemical tracers respond to the large-scale dynamics in the high latitudes.
Climatology of High Cloud Dynamics Using Profiling ARM Doppler Radar Observations
Authors: Kalesse Heike , Kollias Pavlos
Published: March 2013

Ice cloud properties are influenced by cloud-scale vertical air motion. Dynamical properties of ice clouds can be determined via Doppler measurements from ground-based, profiling cloud radars. Here, the decomposition of the Doppler velocities into reflectivity-weighted particle velocity Vt and vertical air motion w is described. The methodology is applied to high clouds observations from 35-GHz profiling millimeter wavelength radars at the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program (ARM) Southern Great Plains (SGP) climate research facility in Oklahoma (January 1997–December 2010) and the ARM Tropical Western Pacific (TWP) site in Manus (July 1999–December 2010). The Doppler velocity measurements are used to detect gravity waves (GW), whose correlation with high cloud macrophysical properties is investigated. Cloud turbulence is studied in the absence and presence of GW. High clouds are less turbulent when GW are observed. Probability density functions of Vt, w, and high cloud macrophysical properties for the two cloud subsets (with and without GW) are presented. Air-density-corrected Vt for high clouds for which GW (no GW) were detected amounted to hourly means and standard deviations of 0.89 ± 0.52 m s−1 (0.8 ± 0.48 m s−1) and 1.03 ± 0.41 m s−1 (0.86 ± 0.49 m s−1) at SGP and Manus, respectively. The error of w at one standard deviation was estimated as 0.15 m s−1. Hourly means of w averaged around 0 m s−1 with standard deviations of ±0.27 (SGP) and ±0.29 m s−1 (Manus) for high clouds without GW and ±0.22 m s−1 (both sites) for high clouds with GW. The midlatitude site showed stronger seasonality in detected high cloud properties.
A Decomposition of Feedback Contributions to Polar Warming Amplification
Authors: Taylor Patrick C. , Cai Ming , Hu Aixue , Meehl Jerry , Washington Warren , Zhang Guang J.
Published: March 2013

Polar surface temperatures are expected to warm 2–3 times faster than the global-mean surface temperature: a phenomenon referred to as polar warming amplification. Therefore, understanding the individual process contributions to the polar warming is critical to understanding global climate sensitivity. The Coupled Feedback Response Analysis Method (CFRAM) is applied to decompose the annual- and zonal-mean vertical temperature response within a transient 1% yr−1 CO2 increase simulation of the NCAR Community Climate System Model, version 4 (CCSM4), into individual radiative and nonradiative climate feedback process contributions. The total transient annual-mean polar warming amplification (amplification factor) at the time of CO2 doubling is +2.12 (2.3) and +0.94 K (1.6) in the Northern and Southern Hemisphere, respectively. Surface albedo feedback is the largest contributor to the annual-mean polar warming amplification accounting for +1.82 and +1.04 K in the Northern and Southern Hemisphere, respectively. Net cloud feedback is found to be the second largest contributor to polar warming amplification (about +0.38 K in both hemispheres) and is driven by the enhanced downward longwave radiation to the surface resulting from increases in low polar water cloud. The external forcing and atmospheric dynamic transport also contribute positively to polar warming amplification: +0.29 and +0.32 K, respectively. Water vapor feedback contributes negatively to polar warming amplification because its induced surface warming is stronger in low latitudes. Ocean heat transport storage and surface turbulent flux feedbacks also contribute negatively to polar warming amplification. Ocean heat transport and storage terms play an important role in reducing the warming over the Southern Ocean and Northern Atlantic Ocean.
Linking Corporate Community Programs and Political Strategies
Authors: Rehbein Kathleen , Schuler Douglas A.
Published: March 2013

This article examines the relationship between an aspect of a firm’s corporate social responsibility (CSR), corporate community programs (CCPs), and the effectiveness of its corporate political activity (CPA). Developing a conceptual model based on resource-based view of the firm, the authors argue that the mechanism linking a firm’s CCP to CPA mechanism is the effect of CCPs on the development of firm level resources. Specifically, the intensity of a firm’s CCPs enhances a firm’s human capital, organizational capital, and geographic resources, which in turn improve the effectiveness of two key aspects of CPA: information and constituency-building political strategies. This linkage of CCPs to CPA effectiveness may be particularly relevant when the firm faces unfavorable political markets.
Using the Bass Model to Analyze the Diffusion of Innovations at the Base of the Pyramid
Authors: Ratcliff Ryan , Doshi Kokila
Published: March 2013

This research note proposes the Bass Model as an empirical tool for analyzing the diffusion of new product and service innovations in Base of the Pyramid (BoP) markets. This approach allows researchers to test whether factors that seem theoretically relevant to the speed and trajectory of adoption actually matter empirically. The authors model the growth of three BoP success stories using the Bass Model: Patrimonio Hoy (PH), e-Choupal, and Grameen’s Village Phone (VP). In two of the three cases considered, the Bass Model estimates confirm Diffusion Theory predictions, but generate additional insight by quantifying the strength of the identified effects. In the case of PH, the Bass Model estimates conflict with the predictions of Diffusion Theory. Sorting out this paradox demonstrates the Bass Model’s potential to identify conflicting influences on consumer adoption, and measure how the relative strength of these competing forces nets out to determine the course of consumer adoption.
States, the security sector, and the monopoly of violence
Authors: Carey Sabine C , Mitchell Neil J , Lowe Will
Published: March 2013

This article introduces the global Pro-Government Militias Database (PGMD). Despite the devastating record of some pro-government groups, there has been little research on why these forces form, under what conditions they are most likely to act, and how they affect the risk of internal conflict, repression, and state fragility. From events in the former Yugoslavia, Iraq, Sudan, or Syria and the countries of the Arab Spring we know that pro-government militias operate in a variety of contexts. They are often linked with extreme violence and disregard for the laws of war. Yet research, notably quantitative research, lags behind events. In this article we give an overview of the PGMD, a new global dataset that identifies pro-government militias from 1981 to 2007. The information on pro-government militias (PGMs) is presented in a relational data structure, which allows researchers to browse and download different versions of the dataset and access over 3,500 sources that informed the coding. The database shows the wide proliferation and diffusion of these groups. We identify 332 PGMs and specify how they are linked to government, for example via the governing political party, individual leaders, or the military. The dataset captures the type of affiliation of the groups to the government by distinguishing between informal and semi-official militias. It identifies, among others, membership characteristics and the types of groups they target. These data are likely to be relevant to research on state strength and state failure, the dynamics of conflict, including security sector reform, demobilization and reintegration, as well as work on human rights and the interactions between different state and non-state actors. To illustrate uses of the data, we include the PGM data in a standard model of armed conflict and find that such groups increase the risk of civil war.
Democracy, civil liberties, and hostage-taking terrorism
Authors: Lee Chia-yi
Published: March 2013

While hostage-taking has been a common form of terrorism for decades, which types of governments are more prone to it remains unclear. Does democracy motivate terrorists to engage in hostage-taking acts because of how easy negotiating with a democratic government is? Or does democracy impose ‘audience costs’ on the government leaders, driving them never to negotiate with hostage-taking terrorists following the long-held principle of no negotiation? This article argues that hostage-taking terrorists are more inclined to target democratic governments because of the greater value given to human life and personal freedom in democracies. Additionally the helplessness of held hostages is more freely exposed by the media in democracies, which leads to the audience focusing on the hostages themselves rather than on the interests of the nation. This in turns compels decisionmakers to concede, especially near election time. It is only when institutional constraints on the executives are high that democratic leaders refuse to make concessions. Using data on hostage events from 1978 to 2005, this article finds strong evidence that supports this theory, showing that democracy has competing effects on hostage-taking terrorism – civil liberties and press freedom are positively associated with hostage-taking incidents, whereas executive constraints have a negative association.
Investigating the Relationship of Resilience to Academic Persistence in College Students With Mental Health Issues
Authors: Hartley Michael T.
Published: March 2013

In this study, the relationships between measures of inter- and intrapersonal resilience and mental health were examined with respect to academic persistence in college students with mental health issues. A sample of 121 undergraduate students with mental health issues was recruited from campus mental health offices offering college counseling, psychiatric support, and disability support at two midwestern universities. Hierarchal (or sequential) regression analysis examined whether the resilience and mental health measures contributed to explaining variance in the response variables of university cumulative grade point average and time to credits completed. The results indicated that intrapersonal resilience was more important and operated differently for students with the most psychological distress. Furthermore, there was a strong statistical correlation between the resilience factors and mental health. The results indicate that a resilience framework may assist college students with mental health issues to cope more effectively with the complexities of college learning and improve college retention.
Encountering Islam in Short-Term Mission
Authors: Hancock Mary
Published: March 2013

This article documents short-term mission’s engagement with Islam by showing how Islam is represented by sending agencies and how volunteers interact with Muslims. I relate the different styles of representing and engaging with Islam to differences of theological orientation as well as to the particular contexts and practices of short-term mission. This article is based on research in Southern California between 2009 and 2012, including visual and textual content analyses of sending agencies’ websites and guidebooks, and interviews with 57 short-term mission participants
Short-Term Missions in the Orthodox Church in North America
Authors: Kostarelos Frances
Published: March 2013

This article examines beliefs, institutions, and social changes shaping short-term missions in the Orthodox Church. It directs attention to key theological principles guiding short-term missions. The article provides a descriptive account of short-term mission activity informed by Orthodox perspective. It frames questions to guide future study of short-term missions in the Orthodox Church.
Fault diagnosis and health assessment for bearings using the Mahalanobis–Taguchi system based on EMD-SVD
Authors: Wang Zhipeng , Lu Chen , Wang Zili , Liu Hongmei , Fan Huanzhen
Published: March 2013

Bearing failure is the main cause of breakdown in rotating machinery. This paper proposes a new method for diagnosing faults and assessing the health of bearings using the Mahalanobis–Taguchi System (MTS). Our approach utilizes empirical mode decomposition and singular value decomposition to process the non-linear and non-stationary vibration signal of a bearing. In this method, the vibration signal is first decomposed to a number of intrinsic mode functions and a residue to form a feature matrix. Singular values of this feature matrix are obtained by SVD, at which point MTS is employed. MTS provides: 1) a computational scheme based on the Mahalanobis distance for fault clustering; and 2) Taguchi methods to extract the key features. In addition, we formulate a new assessment method that obtains the health index of a bearing. This method is based on a normal condition dataset, without the need for failure data, which is a notable indicator for bearing health tracking and defect detection at the incipient stage. Finally, the feasibility and efficiency of this method is validated by two different bearing experiments.
A method of feature selection and sentiment similarity for Chinese micro-blogs
Authors: Yang Dong-Hui , Yu Guang
Published: March 2013

Sentiment analysis of messages posted on micro-blogs is helpful in determining the current usefulness and acceptability of target products or services. It is the basis for finding users with similar attitudes. In this paper, we propose a new sentiment similarity technique to analyse Chinese micro-blog accounts. However, the Chinese text features have not been well studied. Therefore, we first chose four types of feature sets and selected principle features by combining information gain and support vector machine techniques. Next, we compared the four types of features to determine which type of feature contributed more than others. Here we used three classification techniques: decision tree, support vector machines and naive Bayes. Finally, we used Karhunen–Loéve transform technique and average precision between positive and negative features to measure sentiment similarity. Experiment evaluations demonstrated that this new method is efficient and performs better than original average distance for Chinese micro-blogs.
Measuring Use of Positive Thinking Skills
Authors: Bekhet Abir K. , Zauszniewski Jaclene A.
Published: March 2013

Positive thinking interventions improve adaptive functioning and quality of life in many populations. However, no direct measure of positive thinking skills taught during intervention exists. This psychometric study of a convenience sample of 109 autism spectrum disorder (ASD) caregivers examined a new eight-item Positive Thinking Skills Scale (PTSS), which measures the frequency of use of positive thinking skills. The PTSS was found to be internally consistent (α = .90). Construct validity was supported by significant correlations ( p < .01) with positive cognitions ( r = .53), resourcefulness ( r = .63), depression ( r = −.45), and general well-being ( r = .40). The findings support use of the PTSS as a potential indicator of intervention fidelity among ASD caregivers. However, because it is not specific for ASD caregivers, the PTSS has the potential for wider usage in other populations for whom the identification of specific positive thinking skills could provide direction for future intervention.
Does music training enhance working memory performance? Findings from a quasi-experimental longitudinal study
Authors: Roden Ingo , Grube Dietmar , Bongard Stephan , Kreutz Gunter
Published: March 2013

Instrumental music training has been shown to enhance cognitive processing beyond general intelligence. We examined this assumption with regard to working memory performance in primary school-aged children ( N = 50; 7–8 years of age) within a longitudinal study design. Half of the children participated in an extended music education program with 45 minutes of weekly instrumental music training, while the other half received extended natural science training. Each child completed a computerized test battery three times over a period of 18 months. The battery included seven subtests, which address the central executive, the phonological loop and the visuospatial sketchpad components of Baddeley’s working memory model. Socio-economic background and basic cognitive functions were assessed for each participant and used as covariates in subsequent analyses of variance (ANOVAs). Significant group by time interactions were found for phonological loop and central executive subtests, indicating a superior developmental course in children with music training compared to the control group. These results confirm previous findings concerning music training and cognitive performance. It is suggested that children receiving music training benefit specifically in those aspects of cognitive functioning that are strongly related to auditory information processing.
Scaffolding, organizational structure and interpersonal interaction in musical activities with older people
Authors: Creech Andrea , Varvarigou Maria , Hallam Susan , McQueen Hilary , Gaunt Helena
Published: March 2013

The research reported here focuses on the organizational structure and facilitator strategies observed in musical activities with older people. The observations formed one part of the Music for Life Project, funded by the ESRC New Dynamics of Ageing Programme ( http://www.newdynamics.group.shef.ac.uk/ ), which investigated the social, emotional and cognitive benefits of participation in community music making, amongst older people. Three hundred and ninety eight people aged 50+ were recruited from three case study sites offering diverse musical activities. Observations of 33 groups were analysed. Approximately half of the observed time was spent with participants engaged in practical music-making, supported by facilitators who sang or played along, conducted or accompanied. Facilitators spent a relatively small amount of time providing non-verbal modelling and very little participant discussion or facilitator attributional feedback was observed. The findings suggested that facilitators could develop their practice by a) making more extensive use of non-verbal modelling; b) creating space for open questioning and discussion, where participants are encouraged to contribute to setting goals; c) making more extensive use of attributional feedback that empowers learners to control their own learning; and d) vary the organizational structure and style in order to meet a range of diverse needs within groups of older learners.
To Feed or Not to Feed? Case Presentation and Best Practice Guidance for Human Milk Feeding and Group B Streptococcus in Developed Countries
Authors: Davanzo Riccardo , De Cunto Angela , Travan Laura , Bacolla Gianfranco , Creti Roberta , Demarini Sergio
Published: March 2013

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is the most frequent cause of neonatal invasive disease. Two forms of GBS are recognized: early-onset and late-onset disease. The average incidence of late-onset disease is 0.24 per 1000, a figure that has remained substantially unchanged over time. Exposure to breast milk represents a potential source of infection, especially in late-onset and/or recurrent GBS disease. As a result, both breastfeeding and the use of breast milk have been questioned. We report for the first time the case of both simultaneous and recurrent infection in newborn preterm twins, born 3 weeks apart, resulting from ingestion of GBS positive breast milk. A genetically identical strain was found in both breast milk and her newborn infants. Transmission of GBS through breast milk should be considered in late-onset GBS sepsis. An eradicating antibiotic treatment of GBS positive mothers with ampicillin plus rifampin and temporary discontinuation of breastfeeding and/or the use of heat processed breast milk may represent preventive measures, although outcomes are inconsistent, for recurrent GBS disease. Guidelines on breastfeeding and prevention of recurrent neonatal GBS disease are needed. It is unfortunate that existing scientific literature is scarce and there is no general consensus. As a consequence, we propose a best practice approach on the topic.
Bartonella bovis isolated from a cow with endocarditis
Authors: Erol Erdal , Jackson Carney , Bai Ying , Sells Stephen , Locke Steve , Kosoy Michael
Published: March 2013

A 7-year-old pregnant Angus cow was found dead in the field. At necropsy, the aortic valve was expanded by moderate fibrous connective tissue and acidophilic coagulum containing multifocal marked bacteria, mineral, neutrophils, and red blood cells. Numerous tiny grayish, opaque bacterial colonies were detected on blood agar plates at 7 days after inoculation with a swab of the heart valve of the cow. The bacterium was a Gram-negative, very small coccobacillus that was catalase, oxidase, and urease negative, and did not change litmus milk, triple sugar iron agar, and sulfide-indole-motility medium. The bacterium was negative for esculin hydrolysis, phenylalanine deaminase, nitrate reduction, and gelatin hydrolysis. The isolate did not produce acid from glycerol, inulin, lactose, maltose, mannose, raffinose, salicin, sorbitol, sucrose, trehalose, glycogen, ribose, or starch. Polymerase chain reaction tests for the gltA, ssrA, ftsZ, ribC, rpoB, and 16S ribosomal RNA genes of Bartonella species were positive for the isolate. Amplicons were sequenced, and the gltA, ribC, ssrA, and 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequences were found to have 100% homology to the type strain of Bartonella bovis, whereas the fts and rpoB sequences showed 99.9% and 99.6% homology, respectively, to the type strain of Bartonella bovis. Diagnosticians should be aware of slow-growing microorganisms, and culture media should be incubated beyond the standard period to enhance the recovery of Bartonella species.
Fatal infection due to Haemophilus parasuis in a young wild boar (Sus scrofa)
Authors: Cuesta Gerveno Jesus M. , Risco Pérez David , Gonçalves Blanco Pilar , García Jiménez Waldo L. , Gil Molino Maria , Fernandez-Llario Pedro , Hermoso de Mendoza Salcedo Javier , Gómez Gordo Luis J.
Published: March 2013

Haemophilus parasuis is a recognized pathogen in domestic pigs; the pathogen has been also isolated from healthy wild boar ( Sus scrofa). In the current report, a case of fatal H. parasuis infection in a wild boar piglet from central Spain is described. The affected animal presented severe pneumonic lesions, inflammation in tarsal joints with presence of fibrinous deposits, and epidural hemorrhage in the atlanto-occipital joint. Pure growth of H. parasuis was obtained from lungs and tarsal joints. The current case illustrates the susceptibility of wild boar to this agent. The gross pathology results were similar to that described in domestic pigs, but there were no fibrinous deposits on serosal surfaces.
Psychosocial stress factors and intention to leave job: differences between foreign-born and Finnish-born general practitioners
Authors: Kuusio Hannamaria , Heponiemi Tarja , Vänskä Jukka , Aalto Anna-Mari , Ruskoaho Juho , Elovainio Marko
Published: March 2013

Aims: Physicians’ high dropout rate is a significant problem in primary care in many countries. One solution to this issue is to recruit internationally mobile physicians. This study explores the role of psychosocial factors in explaining intention to leave among GPs including potential differences between foreign-born and Finnish GPs. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire was sent to randomly-selected Finnish physicians ( n = 7000) and all foreign-born physicians ( n = 1297) living in Finland in the year 2010. The questionnaire was returned by 4333 physicians, of whom 832 were GPs. Of those 176 were foreign-born GPs. Results: Intention to leave was more common among foreign-born GPs (59%) than among Finnish GPs (52%). High job demands were associated with higher intention to leave from primary care both in foreign-born (OR 1.90) and Finnish GPs (OR 2.20). This association remained among foreign-born GPs after adjusted the model for the country of origin or the reason for migration (OR 1.80, 1.82). Lack of job control, patient-related stress, and stresses related to teamwork were associated with higher intention to leave only among Finnish GPs (ORs 0.45, 1.75 and 1.99). Conclusions: There may be cultural differences in the psychosocial factors that enhance or prevent job involvement among physicians. Thus, novel thinking is needed in organizational development of GP work in order to better understand foreign-born physicians’ specific needs in a target country. This study also suggests that lightening workload could help to attract more GPs, both foreign-born and Finnish, to primary care.
Sensitivity of MRI for Articular Cartilage Lesions of the Patellae
Authors: Mattila V. M. , Weckström M. , Leppänen V. , Kiuru M. , Pihlajamäki H.
Published: March 2013

Background and Aims

Reliable diagnosis of articular cartilage lesions of the patellae is often based on arthroscopy. However, unnecessary arthroscopies should be avoided. The aim of this study was to assess the sensitivity and applicability of MRI to diagnosing articular cartilage lesions of the patellae.

Materials and Methods

We identified 74 consecutive males (mean age 21 years, range 18–28) from the medical records of our institute with the sole diagnosis of articular cartilage lesions of the patellae based on arthroscopy. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed with 1.0 Tesla scanner a mean of 4 weeks before arthroscopy. Sensitivity of symptoms, and MRI for the diagnosis was calculated.

Results

Based on arthroscopy, 20 (27%) cases of cartilage lesions of the patellae were grade-I, 32 (43%) were grade-II, and 22 (30%) were grade-III. MRI revealed cartilage lesions of the patellae in 49 knees (66%), indicating that the sensitivity of MRI was 66% (95% CI: 53%–74%). MRI sensitivity increased with the severity of chondral lesions: all grade III to IV lesions were detected (sensitivity 100%, 95% CI: 85%–100%) by MRI. Grade of articular cartilage lesions of the patellae based on arthroscopy was not associated with clinical symptoms (p = 0.61).

Conclusions

The sensitivity of 1.0 Tesla MRI for detecting grade-I lesions was low and could not be used to confirm the diagnosis of articular cartilage lesions of the patellae. For the detection of more severe grade-II to III lesions, the MRI sensitivity was markedly higher. MRI may thus be considered an accurate diagnostic tool for identifying more severe cases of articular cartilage lesions of the patellae.
Early Results of Large Head Metal-on-Metal Hip Arthroplasties
Authors: Kostensalo I. , Seppänen M. , Mäkelä K. , Mokka J. , Virolainen P. , Hirviniemi J.
Published: March 2013

Background and Aims

Total hip arthroplasty significantly improves patient's life quality. However, total joint replacement is associated with possible complications, such as dislocations, infections, fractures and periprosthetic osteolysis. The goal of this study was to evaluate a large head metal-on-metal total hip arthroplasties and analyse short term complications related to them.

Material and Methods

Between 9/2005 and 6/2009, a total of 691 hip replacements were performed on 635 patients with the use of Magnum M2 large head cementless metal-on-metal prosthesis in Turku University Hospital. All patients had a scheduled follow-up at two to three months, and at one year. The results were evaluated using X-rays, Harris Hip Score (HHS), and evaluating post-operative complications and reasons for re-operations.

Results

During our follow-up the HHS median raised from its preoperative value of 59.8 to 86.4 two to three months after the operation, and to 93.9 one year after the operation. As a complication we had five infections requiring single open debridement (early infection) or a two stage revision. Seven patients had a periprosthetic femoral fracture that was operated and 11 patients were reoperated because of acetabular component malposition, fracture or early loosening. We did not observe any dislocations, n. ischiadicus damages, squeeking or complications related to high metal ion release (ALVAL-reactions (Aseptic Lymphocyte-dominated Vasculitis-Associated Lesion) or pseudotumours).

Conclusions

The metal-on-metal bearing pair allows large femoral head size, which decreases the risk for dislocation. It may also decrease the risk for osteolysis and aseptic loosening in a long run. Early complication rate related to the bearing surface is minimal. Metal-on-metal prosthesis is a good choice for young and active patients with good bone quality.
The Path from Art to Evidence in Treating Critical Limb Ischaemia — Reflections on 35 Years' Experience
Authors: Lepäntalo M.
Published: March 2013

Despite numerous attempts, chronic critical limb ischaemia (CLI) has not been unequivocally defined as yet. Its epidemiology is poorly investigated and its prevalence probably higher than anticipated. It is accompanied by high mortality and morbidity irrespective of the way it is treated. Its management is very expensive. Additionally, the prevailing diabetes epidemic is increasing the need for revascularizations although there is a clear lack of evidence as to when to revascularize an ulcerated diabetic foot. The fast development of endovascular techniques blurs the vision as the window of opportunity for gathering proper evidence keeps narrowing. The notion of endovascular artistry prevails, but attempts to conduct proper studies with clear definitions, strict criteria and appropriate outcome measures in a standardised manner should continue – preferably using propensity scoring if randomised controlled trials are not possible.

This review highlights some of the steps leading from art to evidence and illustrates the difficulties encountered along the path. In parallel with this overview, the progress of the treatment for CLI in Finland is described from the perspective of the work concluded at Helsinki University Central Hospital.
Vascular Laboratory for Critical Limb Ischaemia
Authors: Venermo M. , Vikatmaa P. , Terasaki H. , Sugano N.
Published: March 2013

This is a narrative review on vascular assessment for critical limb ischaemia in the past and present combining Finnish and Japanese experience.
Role and Management of Coagulation Disorders in Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Lassila R.
Published: March 2013

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) has often underlying risk factors, of which diabetes and cigarette smoking are the most common. Enhanced platelet activation and interaction with vessel wall associate with atherothrombotic disease, but also increased fibrinogen levels, thrombin generation and fibrin turnover are typical for PAD. The pathogenic role of fibrinogen, thrombin formation and fibrin degradation is suggested not only in acute thrombotic complications, but also in the stable form of PAD, where these markers associate with the functional severity (ankle-brachial blood pressure index). The coagulation-specific etiologies of PAD should be suspected if the atherothrombotic disease has severe manifestations, especially while the traditional risk factors are absent, or if the patient has also a history of venous thromboembolism. Malignant disease may be present in form of peripheral arterial thrombosis as well. Thrombophilia may expose patients to idiopathic thrombosis – both spontaneously and after vascular interventions. The management of these patients includes often combination therapies with antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants. Obviously, the strict policy to avoid risk factors and to treat them well in avoidance of progression of arterial disease is highly important. In the absence of published follow-up data the evidence to support the management strategies is weak and individual tailoring of efficacious and safe antithrombotic drug therapy remains our challenge. These patients benefit from continuous medical attention by the experts in the field of angiology. Management of PAD is an excellent example of the multidisciplinary approach where the hematologist meets the vascular surgeon or interventional radiologist to secure the best available patient care.
Bypass Grafts: The State of the Art
Authors: Andros G. , Lee L.
Published: March 2013

The treatment options for infra-renal arteriosclerotic occlusive (ASO) vascular disease have never been more varied. The history of open revascularization procedures now exceeds 60 years. This represents three generations of vascular surgeons, the most recent of whom have witnessed more than 30 years of endovascular surgery development and dissemination. Both open and endovascular treatments should be considered mature; moreover, we are improving our understanding of the strategies and tactics that lead to the clinical application of one approach instead of the other. There are other important factors in the choice of a treatment modality to be used for a specific patient. Prime among these is evolving patterns of occlusive disease and the increasing severity of arterial calcification.
Angiosome Theory: Fact or Fiction?
Authors: Alexandrescu V. , Söderström M. , Venermo M.
Published: March 2013

The angiosome concept delineates the human body into three-dimensional blocks of tissue fed by specific arterial and venous sources named “angiosomes.” Adjacent angiosomes are connected by a vast compensatory collateral web, or “choke vessels.” This concept may provide new information applicable to improving targeted revascularization of ischemic tissue lesions.

A few dedicated studies available seem to favor this strategy, as encouraging ulcer healing and limb preservation are reported in connection with both bypass and endovascular techniques based on these principles.

The theory on the angiosome model of revascularization (AMV) may help the clinician to better refine vessel selection, vascular access, and specific strategies in the revascularization of critically ischemic legs with tissue lesions. Specific applications of angiosome-guided revascularization were recently suggested for patients with diabetes or renal insufficiency, with ischemic tissue lesions of the lower limb, and extended large- and medium-size collateral network decay. For these cases, the concept may allow deliberate arterial reconstruction following individual wound topographies in specific ischemic areas, although deprived from “rescue-vessel” supply. The AMV theory may contribute to a shift in common reperfusion options.

However, the data available is suggestive and does not provide strong evidence as factors such as case mix and the severity of ischemia are unsatisfactorily controlled.

At present, the evidence is scarce as to the effect of the severity of the arterial disease. In all comparisons, the groups treated are likely to be dissimilar and mismatched. The angiosome concept is postulated to be valid especially in diabetics, whose ischemic lesions tend to heal worse than those of non-diabetics.
Health Technology Assessment in Surgery
Authors: Bergqvist D. , Rosén M.
Published: March 2013

This review focuses on how surgical methods should be assessed from a health technology perspective. The use of randomized controlled trials, population based registries, systematic literature research and the recently published IDEAL method are briefly discussed.
Synchronous Pulmonary Metastases from Renal Cell Carcinoma — A Whole Nation Study on Prevalence and Potential Resectability
Authors: Oddsson S. J. , Hardarson S. , Petursdottir V. , Jonsson E. , Sigurdsson M. I. , Einarsson G. V. , Pfannschmidt J. , Gudbjartsson T.
Published: March 2013

Background:

At the time of diagnosis, almost one third of patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) have metastasis. We studied the prevalence, survival, and potential resectability of synchronous pulmonary metastases (SPMs) in a well-defined cohort of RCCpatients.

Material and Methods:

Aretrospective whole nation study including RCC patients with SPM diagnosed 1970–2005 in Iceland. Imaging studies and histology were reviewed, the TNM system used for staging the primary tumors, and disease-specific survival estimated. Eligibility for SPM removal was evaluated using different criteria from the literature on surgical management of SPM, including solitary SPM and SPMs confined to one lung.

Results:

Altogether, 154 patients (16.9%) had SPMs. In 55 of these patients (35.7%) the lungs were the only site, with detailed information available in 46 cases. Of these 46 patients with SPMs, 15 were unilateral, and of those 11 were solitary. All of these 11 patients were in good physical condition and were deemed eligible for surgical resection; however, only one of them was operated with metastasectomy. Disease-specific survival at five years for patients with solitary SPM was 27.2%, as compared to 12.7%, 7.1%, and 12.0% for patients with unilateral SPMs, all patients with SPMs, and patients with extrapulmonal metastases, respectively (p = 0.33).

Conclusion:

At the time of diagnosis, 16.9% of RCCpatients had SPM. In one in three of these SPM patients metastases were confined to the lungs, while one in five had solitary pulmonary metastases. Although the benefit of pulmonary metastasectomy in RCC is still debated and criteria for resection are not well defined, it appears that many RCC patients with SP Mare potentially eligible for pulmonary metastasectomy.
Incidence and Outcomes of Surgical Resection for Giant Pulmonary Bullae — A Population-Based Study
Authors: Gunnarsson S. I. , Johannesson K. B. , Gudjonsdottir M. , Magnusson B. , Jonsson S. , Gudbjartsson T.
Published: March 2013

Background:

Giant pulmonary bullae (GPB) are rare and there is little information on incidence, long-term prognosis, and outcome of treatment.

Objectives:

To assess the incidence of GPB in the Icelandic population and to evaluate the outcome of surgical treatment.

Methods:

Twelve consecutive patients (11 males; mean age 60 ± 15.7 years) underwent resection for GPBin Iceland between 1992 and 2009. All were heavy smokers and had bullae occupying > 30% of the involved lung. There were 8 bilateral and 3 unilateral bullectomies and one lobectomy. Pulmonary function tests were performed preoperatively, and at one month and 5.4 years postoperatively. Age-standardized incidence rate (ASR) was calculated, complications and operative mortality were registered, and overall survival was estimated. Mean follow-up time was 8.2 years.

Results:

The ASR for GPB was 0.40 and 0.03 per 100,000 per year for men and women, respectively. There was no operative mortality, but prolonged air leakage (75%) and pneumonia (17%) were the most common postoperative complications. One month postoperatively, mean FEV1 increased from 1.0 ± 0.48 L (33% predicted) to 1.75 ± 0.75 L (57.5% predicted) (p < 0.01), but FVC remained unchanged. RV decreased from 3.9 ± 0.8 L (177% predicted) to 3.0 ± 1.0 L (128% predicted) (p < 0.05), but TLC and DLCO did not change after operation. At long-term follow-up the FEV1 and FVC had declined to near-baseline values. Five-year and 10-year survival were 100% and 60%, respectively.

Conclusions:

The ASR of GPB in Iceland was 0.21 per 100,000 per year. In this small series, bullectomy was found to be a safe procedure that significantly improved pulmonary function. The functional improvement then declined over time. Prolonged air leakage was a common postoperative complication that prolonged hospital stay.
Endoscopic Stapled Marsupialisation of Chronic Presacral Sinus following Low Anterior Resection: A Simple Option in Selected Cases
Authors: Abild N. , Bulut O. , Nielsen C. B.
Published: March 2013

Background and Aims:

Chronic presacral sinus (CPS) following anastomose leakage is one of the most serious complications after restorative colorectal surgery. CPS is associated with long course of treatments and can prevent stoma closure. We present our experience with endoscopic stapled marsupialisation (ESM) of CPS.

Materials and Methods:

Seven patients underwent ESM. All patients had developed a CPS after clinical anastomotic leakage following low anterior resection with diverting ileostomy. Initially the patients were treated conservatively and with endoscopic vacuum-assisted closure (Endo-VAC).

Results and Conclusion:

ESM procedure was successful for six patients, resulted in good healing in four patients and no sinus recurrence of the CPS. In two patients the stoma was reversed. Two patients were treated with neo-adjuvant chemoradiotherapy, who also developed small bowel fistulae. ESM is a simple treatment for CPS and can accelerate healing of chronic presacral cavity, reduce complications and enable to reverse the stoma in selected cases.