Prevention Methods Research Articles

Intimate partner violence, behaviours associated with risk of HIV acquisition and condom use in married women in Manicaland, East Zimbabwe: An HIV prevention cascade analysis.

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is widespread in the WHO African region with generalised HIV epidemics and may contribute to ongoing HIV transmission through its associations with behaviours associated with HIV acquisition risk and low use of prevention methods particularly in marital relationships. We conducted a male condom HIV prevention cascade analysis using data from a general-population survey in Manicaland, Zimbabwe (July 2018-December 2019) to develop an understanding of how interventions that reduce IPV might be built upon to also reduce HIV incidence. Multivariable logistic regression was used to measure associations between currently-married HIV-negative women's experience of IPV and: (1) being in the priority population for HIV prevention methods (i.e. married women engaging in behaviours associated with HIV acquisition risk or with a spouse who engages in similar behaviours or is living with HIV), and (2) male condom use by women in this priority population. Male condom HIV prevention cascades, with explanatory barriers for gaps between successive cascade bars (motivation, access and effective use), were compared for women in the priority population reporting and not reporting IPV. We found a positive association between IPV and being in the priority population for HIV prevention methods (72.3% versus 58.5%; AOR = 2.26, 95%CI:1.74-2.93). Condom use was low (< 15%) for women in the priority population and did not differ between those reporting and not reporting IPV. The HIV prevention cascades for women reporting and not reporting IPV were similar; both showing large gaps in motivation and capacity to use male condoms effectively. Women reporting motivation and access to male condoms were more likely to report their partner being a barrier to condom use if they experienced IPV (84.8% versus 75.5%; AOR = 2.25, 95%CI:1.17-4.31). The findings of this study support the case for trials of integrated IPV/HIV prevention interventions that are tailored to improve HIV risk perception among HIV-negative married women and to make condom provision more acceptable for this group.

Larval cyathostominosis in horses

Small strongyles are the most common parasites of horses, capable of surviving different climate conditions. Though the infection is usually asymptomatic, young horses are considered more prone to developing a parasitic syndrome called larval cyathostominosis. In most cases, gastrointestinal symptoms are most prevalent. Treatment is based on the use of fenbendazole and moxidectin. Diagnosis is difficult and serological methods are still under development. The main prevention methods include regular coprological testing, pasture rotation, co-grazing with ruminants, and regular removal of faeces from the pasture.

Study on the Development Rule of Mudstone Cracks in Open-Pit Mine Dumps Improved with Xanthan Gum

The stability of open-pit mine slopes is crucial for safety, especially for spoil dump slopes, which are prone to cracks leading to landslides. This study investigates the use of xanthan gum (XG) to enhance the stability of mudstone in spoil dumps. Various concentrations of xanthan gum were mixed with mudstone and subjected to dry–wet cycle tests to assess the impact on crack development. Pore and crack analysis system (PCAS) was utilized for image recognition and crack analysis, comparing the efficiency of crack rate and length modification. The study found that xanthan gum addition significantly improved mudstone’s resistance to crack development post-drying shrinkage. A 2% xanthan gum content reduced the mudstone crack rate by 45% on average, while 1.5% xanthan gum reduced crack length by 46.2% and crack width by 26.3%. Xanthan gum also influenced the fractal dimension and water retention of mudstone cracks. The optimal xanthan gum content for mudstone modification was identified as between 1.5% and 2%. Scanning electron microscopy imaging and X-ray diffraction tests supported the findings, indicating that xanthan gum modifies mudstone by encapsulation and penetration in wet conditions and matrix concentration and connection in dry conditions. These results are expected to aid in the development of crack prevention methods and engineering applications for open-pit mine spoil dump slopes.

Structural epilepsy: current state of the problem

This review emphasizes modern conceptions in the fundamental and clinical aspects of structural epilepsy. Highly informative neuroimaging, electrophysiological and pathomorphological diagnostic methods contribution to the study of this problem is noted. Current understanding of the pathogenesis and clinical picture of the most common types of drug resistant epilepsy are presented: hippocampal sclerosis, focal cortical dysplasia and their surgical correction methods. We considered perspective directions of fundamental clinical and experimental research, focusing on the study of epileptogenesis mechanisms and developing effective methods for prevention and treatment.

Dysphonia in children

Abstract Dysphonia is a frequent symptom in paediatric patients and it has a prevalence between 6 - 24%. In young patients, dysphonia has a direct importance because it impairs their communicative behaviour, their psychological status and also their social life. The most diagnosed voice pathologies in children are vocal nodules followed by vocal cord cysts, infectious and inflammatory causes, sulcus vocalis, laryngeal membranes, iatrogenic vocal cord paralysis, neurological causes, psychogenic factors, traumatic or irritative factors or, less commonly, laryngeal neoplasms. A correct diagnosis of dysphonia in paediatric patients is important for learning, voice training and their psychological development. Children with dysphonia have to be assessed with adequate equipment. It is recommended to use tools that are appropriate to the tolerance and cooperation of the patients and allow to have a good visualization of the vocal folds. Suitable preventive methods, early diagnosis, appropriate treatment of voice disorders should be taken into consideration in these cases. In this article, some of the most frequent causes of dysphonia in paediatric patients and their treatment options in order to achieve a proper voice are reviewed.

The Genetic Basis of Non-Contact Soft Tissue Injuries-Are There Practical Applications of Genetic Knowledge?

Physical activity increases the risk of non-contact injuries, mainly affecting muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Genetic factors are recognized as contributing to susceptibility to different types of soft tissue injuries, making this broad condition a complicated multifactorial entity. Understanding genetic predisposition seems to offer the potential for personalized injury prevention and improved recovery strategies. The candidate gene analysis approach used so far, has often yielded inconclusive results. This manuscript reviews the most commonly studied genetic variants in genes involved in the musculoskeletal system’s structure and recovery processes (ACTN3, ACE, CKM, MLCK, AMPD1, IGF2, IL6, TNFα, CCL2, COL1A1, COL5A1, MMP3, and TNC). Referring to the literature, it was highlighted that single-gene analyses provide limited insight. On the other hand, novel genetic testing methods identify numerous variants of uncertain physiological relevance. Distinguishing between functionally important variants, modifying variants, and the thousands of irrelevant variants requires advanced bioinformatics methods and basic multiomics research to identify the key biological pathways contributing to injury susceptibility. Tools like the Total Genotype Score (TGS) and Polygenic Risk Score (PRS) offer a more holistic view by assessing the combined effect of multiple variants. However, these methods, while useful in research, lack clinical applicability. In conclusion, it is too early to determine the clinical implications of genetic variability as a tool for improving well-established training and injury prevention methods, as the predictive power of genetic testing for injury predisposition is currently low.

Fish Snx27 promotes viral products by modulating the innate immune response and exosomal machinery.

Viral nervous necrosis caused by the nervous necrosis virus (NNV) poses a significant threat to the global aquaculture industry. Developing preventive methods to minimize economic losses due to NNV infections is crucial. This study explored the role of the sorting nexin 27 (Snx27) gene, encoded by the orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) and referred to as EcSnx27, as an immune regulator affecting red-spotted grouper nervous necrosis virus (RGNNV) infection in vitro. Our findings revealed that EcSnx27 negatively regulates interferon (IFN)-related cytokines and the promoter activities of fish ISRE and NF-κB. Furthermore, we identified the SNX-FERM and SNX-FERM-like domains as responsible for the interaction between EcSnx27 and RGNNV coat protein. Through the detection of viable virions associated with EcSnx27-containing exosomes, we propose that EcSnx27 may contribute to the release process of RGNNV by influencing the apoptosis-linked gene 2-interacting protein X (ALIX)-associated exosomal pathway. Consequently, our study suggests that EcSnx27 promotes RGNNV replication by inhibiting the IFN immune response and facilitating virus production and release through ALIX-mediated exosomal machinery.IMPORTANCERed grouper nervous necrosis virus (RGNNV), a member of the Nodaviridae family, has emerged as a significant cause of fish diseases worldwide, leading to high morbidity and mortality rates. This study investigated the sorting nexin 27 (Snx27) gene encoded by the orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) on RGNNV infection in grouper kidney cells. Our findings revealed that EcSnx27 negatively regulated the interferon pathway, resulting in the promotion of RGNNV replication. Additionally, we observed that EcSnx27 could interact with apoptosis-linked gene 2-interacting protein X (ALIX) and the RGNNV coat protein, suggesting its potential involvement in viral release processes through modulation of the exosomal pathway. Our study identified EcSnx27 as a key target that RGNNV exploits to enhance viral production. This finding offers valuable insights into the immune evasion and viral release mechanisms of non-enveloped RNA viruses.

Analysis of a survey of the adult population on oral hygiene products

Aim – to assess the use of oral hygiene products by consumers as a method of primary prevention of the development of dental diseases, as well as to study their motivation when choosing personal oral hygiene products. Materials and methods. The study was carried out using an individually developed and validated questionnaire. The questionnaire included 21 questions. Respondents were selected by random selection. Results. Established a low level of hygiene education of respondents (34% of respondents to the questionnaire visit a dentist twice a year or more, the main criterion for choosing toothpaste for 36% of respondents is the possibility of using the whole family, 53.5% of respondents do not matter the content of fluoride in the toothpaste, 89.1 do not use other sources of fluoride, less than 50% of those surveyed use additional means of oral hygiene. The results of the questionnaire showed that about 40% of respondents acquire oral hygiene products in a pharmacy and need professional consultations of specialists on the composition of toothpaste and its effectiveness, the right choice of toothbrush, which determines the area of knowledge, that a pharmaceutical worker should own. Conclusion. Have been identified the information needs on oral hygiene products. The need for training in proper oral care and orientation to timely treatment of the dentist for preventive purposes and at the first symptoms, as well as information on primary prevention measures to preserve the dental health of the population. It is important to raise public awareness of the role of fluoride in the prevention of the development of caries, as well as to use additional means of oral hygiene products and fluoride sources. One way to improve public hygiene awareness is for a pharmacist to provide competent advice to pharmacists and to increase the level of completeness in the use of oral hygiene products by the consumer.

HBV Transmission Knowledge Among Korean-American Chronic Hepatitis B Patients in the United States.

Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is a condition that disproportionately affects Asian Americans in the United States. Knowledge of transmission is crucial for CHB patients to practice prevention methods to limit the spread of the hepatitis B virus (HBV), but also live their lives free from unwarranted fears or restrictions. Among Asian CHB patients, several misperceptions about HBV transmission have been identified. This analysis aims to assess the current state of HBV knowledge among a cohort of Korean-American CHB patients. This mixed-methods study includes 363 respondents who completed a survey in either Korean (N = 298) or English (N = 65) at two clinical care settings in Philadelphia (N = 161) and Los Angeles (N = 202); 30 participants also completed in-depth interviews. Knowledge was measured on a 10-point scale, asking patients yes or no transmission questions (n = 10, alpha = 0.87). The average knowledge score was 6.3. In multivariate analyses, older age was associated with lower knowledge (β=-0.25, p < 0.001). More years of formal education (β = 0.09, p = 0.076) and utilizing more sources for health information (β = 0.12, p = 0.023) were both independently associated with higher knowledge scores. Qualitative findings show that misperceptions about transmission through shared food still exist and that provider communication is an important part of knowledge acquisition. These results suggest that despite receiving specialized, culturally concordant medical care for their disease, some Korean-American CHB patients have an inadequate understanding of transmission and that opportunities exist to improve education in this population. Identifying additional factors that influence knowledge acquisition and retention is key to developing culturally effective education interventions for this population.

Neighborhood Ecologies, Cases, and Deaths during the Beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Lessons for Current and Future Epidemics?

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has disproportionately affected Black and Latinx communities. Ecologic analyses have shown that counties with a higher percentage of Latinx and Black people have worse COVID-19 outcome rates. Few ecologic analyses have been published at the neighborhood (census tract) level. We sought to determine whether certain sociodemographic neighborhood ecologies were associated with COVID-19 case and death rates in metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia. We used census data and principal-component analysis to identify unique neighborhood ecologies. We then estimated correlation coefficients to determine whether the neighborhood profiles produced by a principal-component analysis were correlated with COVID-19 case and death rates. We conducted geographically weighted regression models to assess how correlation coefficients varied spatially for neighborhood ecologies and COVID-19 outcomes. We identified two unique neighborhood profiles: (1) high percentage of residents, Hispanic ethnicity, without a high school diploma, without health insurance, living in crowded households, and lower percentage older than 65 years; and (2) high percentage of residents, Black race, living in poverty, unemployed, and households receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. Profile 1 was associated with COVID-19 case rate (Pearson r = 0.462, P < 0.001) and profile 2 was associated with COVID-19 death rate (Spearman r = 0.279, P < 0.001). Correlations between neighborhood profiles and COVID-19 outcomes varied spatially. Neighborhoods were differentially at risk of COVID-19 cases or deaths depending on their sociodemographic ecology at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Prevention methods and interventions may need to consider different social determinants of health when addressing potential cases and deaths during future emergent epidemics.

Preventive measures against HIV among Uganda's youth: Strategies, implementation, and effectiveness.

Preventing HIV among Uganda's youth is a critical public health priority due to the high prevalence of HIV/AIDS and the disproportionate burden of new infections among young people. This paper examines the preventive measures implemented to combat HIV/AIDS among Uganda's youth, focusing on strategies, implementation efforts, and the effectiveness of interventions. Comprehensive sexuality education programs have been implemented in schools and communities to provide young people with accurate information on HIV transmission, prevention methods, and reproductive health. Condom distribution and promotion campaigns target sexually active youth, while HIV testing and counseling services aim to reach youth in various settings, including health facilities and community outreaches. The implementation of HIV prevention strategies involves collaboration among government agencies, NGOs, healthcare providers, educators, and community leaders. Efforts are made to ensure that prevention programs are culturally appropriate, evidence-based, and responsive to the needs of young people. Despite progress in HIV prevention, challenges persist, including knowledge gaps, stigma, gender inequalities, and socio-economic factors. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to assess the impact of interventions and identify areas for improvement. Recommendations include increasing funding for HIV prevention programs, strengthening policy frameworks, enhancing access to youth-friendly health services, integrating comprehensive sexuality education into school curricula, and fostering community engagement. By addressing these recommendations, Uganda can strengthen its HIV prevention efforts and reduce the incidence of HIV/AIDS among its youth population, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes and well-being.

Label-Free Non-Contact Vascular Imaging using Photon Absorption Remote Sensing.

Functional vascular imaging is a critical method for early detection and prevention of disease. Established non-contact vascular imaging techniques capture predominantly structural information. In this study, a novel non-contact label-free in vivo Photon Absorption Remote Sensing (PARS) microscope is developed for structural and functional vascular imaging. The presented in vivo PARS microscope captures the endogenous absorption of green (532nm) light to form a complete picture of vasculature and surrounding tissues. Imaging system repeatability is enhanced through robust transient absorption signal extraction, and state-of-the-art real-time alignment methods. Detailed imaging of vascular structure is demonstrated through in vivo microscopy of two established animal models: mouse ear and chicken embryo. Preliminary functional contrast is realized through video rate imaging of red blood cell dynamics in the capillary networks of chicken embryos. The presented in vivo PARS microscope successfully captures detailed structural and functional vascular contrast. This innovative non-contact label-free imaging technique holds promise as a tool for preventative medical care, as functional change often precedes structural change.

Mechanism and prevention of coal bursts in gob-side roadway floor under thick and hard roof in the deep mining area of Ordos

The complex stress environment in deep roadways, often exacerbated by thick and hard strata, frequently precipitates coal bursts, posing significant safety hazards. This paper investigates the mechanisms and preventive methods for coal bursts in the gob-side roadway floor (GSRF) under thick and hard roof in the Ordos region, China. First, the stress-distributing characters of GSRF were analyzed then a stress calculation formula was derived. A mechanical model was developed to determine the critical stress for buckling failure of the roadway floor strata. Criteria for the bursting instability of GSRF were then established. The lateral static load from the adjacent gob, the advancing static load from the working face, and the disturbance load from overlying thick and hard roof fractures combine to transmit high loads and energy to the roadway floor via the “roof → rib → floor” pathway, causing increased stress concentration and energy accumulation. When the conditions satisfy the criteria for bursting instability, coal bursts can occur on the roadway floor. To mitigate dynamic load disturbances, the paper proposes roof regional fracturing and abrasive water jet axial roof cutting. Hydraulic reaming of gutters in the roadway ribs and deep hole blasting at the roadway bottom corners are offered to alleviate the static loads on the surrounding rock. The implementation of targeted prevention measures for dynamic and static loads effectively reduces coal bursts in GSRF. These findings offer an example of preventing and controlling coal bursts in other mines of the Ordos region with comparable geological conditions.

Wpływ polimorfizmu genetycznego na przebieg oraz ciężkość zakażenia wirusem SARS-CoV-2 oraz choroby COVID-19

COVID-19 is severe respiratory and systemic disease with complex pathogenesis and many clinical symptoms, including symptoms from respiratory system, immunology system, cardio-vascular system, haematopoietic system and neurological system. Severe character of the disease is associated with occurrence of respiratory failure, septic shock, multiple organ dysfunctions syndrome, which can lead to patients death due to cardiac arrest. Knowledge about interactions between the virus and human proteins as well as knowledge of immunological mechanisms against infection is a key to identifying the area of virus activity and severity factors of COVID-19. Multiple variants of genes encoding proteins involved in host cell invasion by SARS-CoV-2 virus have been identified: ACE2 i TMPRSS2, TMPRSS11A (HGNC:27954), ELANE (HGNC:3309) oraz CTSL (HGNC:2537), IL-6 rs1800795 variant associated with an increased risk of COVID-19, variant rs35705950:G&gt;T located in the promoter of the MUC5B gene (11p15.5), encoding a protein that plays a key role in maintaining the proper function of the bronchoalveolar epithelium, having a protective effect against the form of the disease requiring hospitalization of the patient, as well as GC rs2282679 gene variant in the vitamin D binding protein associated with a more severe course of COVID-19. 48 of these variants were proved to be directly specific for some populations. Novel techniques of genome analysis enabled the research of the impact of specific polymorphism variants on the severity of various diseases including, COVID-19. Genetic factors analysis can permit understanding of disease pathogenesis, which is a chance to find effective treatment and prevention methods. Collected data from literature indicate that, in the case of COVID-19 disease, there are genes polymorphisms which affect the severity course.

ASSISTÊNCIA DE ENFERMAGEM A PACIENTES COM TROMBOFILIA NO PRÉ-NATAL

The research addressed the importance of nursing care for pregnant women with thrombophilia during prenatal care, a condition that increases the risk of thromboembolic complications for both mother and fetus. Thrombophilia is a hemostatic disorder characterized by an increased predisposition to thrombosis, which can be caused by hereditary or acquired factors, such as the use of hormones or medications. The general objective of the study was to describe the nursing care provided to these patients, focusing on risk identification, clinical monitoring during pregnancy, and preventive methods. The methodology used was a literature review with a quantitative approach, conducted based on selected articles from scientific databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scielo. Studies that addressed the topic of thrombophilia during prenatal care, focusing on health care and complication prevention, were included. The results showed that adequate nursing care, including detailed anamnesis, continuous monitoring, and medication management, is essential to prevent serious complications such as deep vein thrombosis and pregnancy loss. The study also highlighted the importance of preventive measures, such as adopting a balanced diet and engaging in physical activities, to reduce the risks associated with thrombophilia during pregnancy.

Mistakes in Personal Identification Attempts

The following study is meant to present the most frequent mistakes (dangers) of identity parades (line-up, recognition) and their possible consequences, such as for instance the worst outcome: justizmord, (miscarriage of justice). The author analyses sources of criminal tactical and criminal technical major errors through real international and Hungarian homicide cases and suggests legislative changes “de lege ferenda” as well as preventive methods and tactics for law enforcers and criminalists as well.

Exploring Machine Learning Applications in Sports Injury Prediction Analysis

Abstract: Injuries, particularly those resulting from repetitive strain on the body, pose a significant challenge in athletics, where prevention has traditionally relied on historical data and human expertise. Existing methods for injury prevention have struggled to achieve higher precision in practice. However, technological advancements now enable artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to emerge as promising tools for enhancing both injury mitigation and rehabilitation strategies. This article provides a detailed overview of recent ML advances applied to sports injury prediction and prevention. A comprehensive literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed/Medline, IEEE/IET, and Science Direct, with additional resources from Ovid Discovery and Google Scholar, including a grey literature search. Focus was placed on studies published between 2017 and 2022, examining algorithms including K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN), K-means, decision trees, random forest, gradient boosting, AdaBoost, and neural networks. A total of 42 original research papers were reviewed and their findings summarized. While the current lack of open-source, standardized datasets and the reliance on dated regression models limit strong conclusions about ML’s real-world efficacy in sports injury prediction, addressing these challenges could enable the deployment of advanced ML architectures, thereby accelerating progress in this field and supporting the development of validated clinical tools.

Varicose Veins and Venous Insufficiency in the Lower Limbs among Physiotherapists

Varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency of the lower limbs are common conditions affecting individuals of working age. The symptoms of these diseases are burdensome and can hinder or even prevent the performance of work-related tasks. Numerous factors may contribute to the development of these conditions. Physical therapists, particularly those who perform their duties predominantly in a standing position, should pay special attention to risk factors and preventive measures for varicose veins and venous insufficiency. This awareness can help in preventing the onset of these diseases. This paper presents the prevalence, risk factors, and prevention methods for varicose veins and venous insufficiency in the lower limbs.

A socioeconomic and cost benefit analysis of Tropical Race 4 (TR4) prevention methods among banana producers in Colombia.

The global banana industry faces a significant threat from Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 4 (TR4). While prior research has concentrated on TR4's dissemination, reproductive conditions, and resistant banana varieties, this study employs a socioeconomic and cost-benefit analysis to explore the vulnerability of banana producers to TR4 in Colombia. It assesses the financial viability of current monitoring strategies and estimates potential losses in the event of TR4 spreading within the study area. Interviews were conducted with producers and key stakeholders in Colombia's top two banana-producing departments, Antioquia and Magdalena. The findings reveal that farming systems are highly vulnerable to TR4, particularly due to the prevalent use of corms. Producers employ preventive measures such as cement paths, fences, disinfecting stations, and footbaths to counteract TR4's spread. A cost-benefit analysis indicates that the benefits of these prevention methods significantly outweigh the associated costs, with a net present value of implementing prevention strategies per hectare of $95,389 USD and $112,527 USD in Magdalena and Antioquia and a benefit-cost ratio of 3.1 and 4.2, respectively. Considering the substantial impact TR4 could have in Colombia if it becomes more widespread, we recommend widespread adoption of preventive measures, including the construction and utilization of cement paths and disinfectant methods on all banana farms. Additionally, to enhance awareness and early detection, we propose leveraging technology, such as mobile applications (apps) and chat groups, to empower farmers in identifying and preventing the spread of TR4.

Leveraging big data analytics to combat emerging financial fraud schemes in the USA: A literature review and practical implications

The rise of emerging financial fraud schemes in the USA has presented significant challenges for financial institutions, regulators, and law enforcement agencies. As fraud tactics become increasingly sophisticated, traditional methods of detection and prevention are proving insufficient. This literature review explores the role of big data analytics as a critical tool in combating financial fraud, focusing on its practical applications and effectiveness. By leveraging machine learning, predictive analytics, and artificial intelligence, big data analytics enables real-time monitoring and detection of fraudulent activities, offering a more dynamic and adaptive approach to fraud prevention. The review synthesizes key studies, case reports, and industry practices, highlighting the implementation of big data in analyzing large volumes of transactional and behavioral data to identify suspicious patterns. It further discusses the challenges associated with integrating big data technologies into existing systems, including issues related to data privacy, regulatory compliance, and the high cost of implementation. Additionally, the paper assesses the impact of big data solutions on fraud prevention, comparing their effectiveness to traditional methods and identifying best practices for institutions looking to adopt these technologies. Finally, the review proposes future directions, emphasizing the potential of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain to enhance fraud detection capabilities. It offers recommendations for financial institutions, regulators, and policymakers to collaborate in developing more robust strategies to safeguard the financial system from evolving fraud threats. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of big data analytics in combating financial fraud and its practical implications for the financial services industry in the USA.