bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Image-guided cerebrospinal fluid shunting in children: catheter accuracy and shunt survival
Authors: Levitt Michael R. , O'Neill Brent R. , Ishak Gisele E. , Khanna Paritosh C. , Temkin Nancy R. , Ellenbogen Richard G. , Ojemann Jeffrey G. , Browd Samuel R.
Published: June 2012

Object

Cerebrospinal fluid shunt placement has a high failure rate, especially in patients with small ventricles. Frameless stereotactic electromagnetic image guidance can assist ventricular catheter placement. The authors studied the effects of image guidance on catheter accuracy and shunt survival in children.

Methods

Pediatric patients who underwent placement or revision of a frontal ventricular CSF shunt were retrospectively evaluated. Catheters were placed using either anatomical landmarks or image guidance. Preoperative ventricular size and postoperative catheter accuracy were quantified. Outcomes of standard and image-guided groups were compared.

Results

Eighty-nine patients underwent 102 shunt surgeries (58 initial, 44 revision). Image guidance was used in the placement of 56 shunts and the standard technique in 46. Shunt failure rates were not significantly different between the standard (22%) and image-guided (25%) techniques (p = 0.21, log-rank test). Ventricular size was significantly smaller in patients in the image-guided group (p < 0.02, Student t-test) and in the surgery revision group (p < 0.01). Small ventricular size did not affect shunt failure rate, even when controlling for shunt insertion technique. Despite smaller average ventricular size, the accuracy of catheter placement was significantly improved with image guidance (p < 0.01). Shunt accuracy did not affect shunt survival.

Conclusions

The use of image guidance improved catheter tip accuracy compared with a standard technique, despite smaller ventricular size. Failure rates were not dependent on shunt insertion technique, but an observed selection bias toward using image guidance for more at-risk catheter placements showed failure rates similar to initial surgeries.
From comparative effectiveness research to patient-centered outcomes research: policy history and future directions
Authors: D'Arcy Laura P. , Rich Eugene C.
Published: June 2012

Containing growth in health care expenditures is considered to be essential to improving both the long-term fiscal outlook of the federal government and the future affordability of health care in the US. As health care expenditures have increased, so too have concerns about the quality of health care. Better information on the clinical effectiveness of alternative treatments and other interventions is needed to improve the quality of care and restrain growth in expenditures. This article explains the key role played by the federal government in defining the context and process of comparative effectiveness research as well as its funding. Subsequently, the article explores the mission, priorities, and research agenda of the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, which is an independent, nonprofit corporation established in 2010 by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
Comparative effectiveness research in spine surgery
Authors: Abdullah Kalil G. , Benzel Edward C. , Mroz Thomas E.
Published: June 2012

Comparative effectiveness research (CER) has impending significance for the field of spine surgery. This article outlines the rationale for comparative effectiveness research and reviews recommended priorities of spinal surgery emphasis. It also examines recent key studies of CER in the spine surgery literature and associated cost-effectiveness studies. It concludes with a discussion of the direction of CER in the spine surgery community.
Interactive virtual simulation using a 3D computer graphics model for microvascular decompression surgery
Authors: Oishi Makoto , Fukuda Masafumi , Hiraishi Tetsuya , Yajima Naoki , Sato Yosuke , Fujii Yukihiko
Published: June 2012

Object

The purpose of this paper is to report on the authors' advanced presurgical interactive virtual simulation technique using a 3D computer graphics model for microvascular decompression (MVD) surgery.

Methods

The authors performed interactive virtual simulation prior to surgery in 26 patients with trigeminal neuralgia or hemifacial spasm. The 3D computer graphics models for interactive virtual simulation were composed of the brainstem, cerebellum, cranial nerves, vessels, and skull individually created by the image analysis, including segmentation, surface rendering, and data fusion for data collected by 3-T MRI and 64-row multidetector CT systems. Interactive virtual simulation was performed by employing novel computer-aided design software with manipulation of a haptic device to imitate the surgical procedures of bone drilling and retraction of the cerebellum. The findings were compared with intraoperative findings.

Results

In all patients, interactive virtual simulation provided detailed and realistic surgical perspectives, of sufficient quality, representing the lateral suboccipital route. The causes of trigeminal neuralgia or hemifacial spasm determined by observing 3D computer graphics models were concordant with those identified intraoperatively in 25 (96%) of 26 patients, which was a significantly higher rate than the 73% concordance rate (concordance in 19 of 26 patients) obtained by review of 2D images only (p < 0.05). Surgeons evaluated interactive virtual simulation as having “prominent” utility for carrying out the entire surgical procedure in 50% of cases. It was evaluated as moderately useful or “supportive” in the other 50% of cases. There were no cases in which it was evaluated as having no utility. The utilities of interactive virtual simulation were associated with atypical or complex forms of neurovascular compression and structural restrictions in the surgical window. Finally, MVD procedures were performed as simulated in 23 (88%) of the 26 patients .

Conclusions

Our interactive virtual simulation using a 3D computer graphics model provided a realistic environment for performing virtual simulations prior to MVD surgery and enabled us to ascertain complex microsurgical anatomy.
The accuracy of abnormal lumbar sonography findings in detecting occult spinal dysraphism: a comparison with magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Chern Joshua J. , Aksut Baran , Kirkman Jennifer L. , Shoja Mohammadali M. , Tubbs R. Shane , Royal Stuart A. , Wellons John C. , Rozzelle Curtis J.
Published: June 2012

Object

The purpose of this study was to correlate lumbar ultrasound (LUS) and MRI findings in patients suspected of having occult spinal dysraphism (OSD).

Methods

Over a 5-year period, 1273 consecutive infants underwent an LUS study at a major pediatric tertiary referral center. Of these, 106 patients had abnormal LUS findings suggestive of an OSD, and 103 underwent subsequent MRI studies. The anatomical descriptions of the 2 studies were compared for agreement.

Results

The average age of the infants was 34 days at the time of the LUS study; OSD was suspected in these patients because of the presence of cutaneous stigmata and congenital defects. The most common anatomical descriptions from the LUS study included a thickened or fatty filum (32 cases), filum cyst (11 cases), and presence of a terminal ventricle or syrinx (9 cases). Using MRI findings as the standard reference, the sensitivity of LUS in detecting a thickened or fatty filum was 20%. The sensitivity of detecting an abnormal conus level at or below L-3 was 76.9%.

Conclusions

In the patient population chosen to undergo LUS studies, abnormal findings had poor sensitivity at detecting anatomical findings consistent with OSD.
Thermodynamic Properties of κ-(BEDT-TTF)2X Salts: Electron Correlations and Superconductivity
Authors: Nakazawa Yasuhiro , Yamashita Satoshi
Published: June 2012

Heat capacity measurements of κ-(BEDT-TTF)2X (BEDT-TTF: Bis(ethylendithio) tetrathiafulvalene, X: counteranions) which are classified as two-dimensional (2D) dimer-Mott system are reported. At first, we explain structural and electronic features originated from rigid dimerization in donor arrangement in 2D layers. The antiferromagnetic Mott insulating phase located at low-pressure region in the phase diagram shows vanishing γ electronic heat capacity coefficient in the heat capacity, which claims opening of a charge-gap in this insulating state. Then, a systematic change of the γ around the Mott boundary region is reported in relation to the glass freezing of ethylene dynamics. The thermodynamic parameters determined by ∆Cp/γTc of 10 K class superconductors, κ-(BEDT-TTF)2Cu(NCS)2 and κ-(BEDT-TTF)2Cu[N(CN)2]Br demonstrate that a rather large gap with a strong coupling character appears around the Fermi-surface. On the other hand, the low temperature heat capacity clearly shows a picture of nodal-gap structure due to an anisotropic pairing. The comparison with lower Tc compounds in the κ-type structure is also performed so as to discuss overall features of the κ-type superconductors. The heat capacity measurements of hole-doped systems containing mercury in the counteranions show an anomalous enhancement of γ, which is consistent with the T1−1 of NMR experiments etc. The results of heat capacity measurements under high pressures are also reported.
The Human Transcriptome: An Unfinished Story
Authors: Pertea Mihaela
Published: June 2012

Despite recent technological advances, the study of the human transcriptome is still in its early stages. Here we provide an overview of the complex human transcriptomic landscape, present the bioinformatics challenges posed by the vast quantities of transcriptomic data, and discuss some of the studies that have tried to determine how much of the human genome is transcribed. Recent evidence has suggested that more than 90% of the human genome is transcribed into RNA. However, this view has been strongly contested by groups of scientists who argued that many of the observed transcripts are simply the result of transcriptional noise. In this review, we conclude that the full extent of transcription remains an open question that will not be fully addressed until we decipher the complete range and biological diversity of the transcribed genomic sequences.
Production of Defatted Palm Kernel Cake Protein Hydrolysate as a Valuable Source of Natural Antioxidants
Authors: Zarei Mohammad , Ebrahimpour Afshin , Abdul-Hamid Azizah , Anwar Farooq , Saari Nazamid
Published: June 2012

The aim of this study was to produce a valuable protein hydrolysate from palm kernel cake (PKC) for the development of natural antioxidants. Extracted PKC protein was hydrolyzed using different proteases (alcalase, chymotrypsin, papain, pepsin, trypsin, flavourzyme, and bromelain). Subsequently, antioxidant activity and degree of hydrolysis (DH) of each hydrolysate were evaluated using DPPH• radical scavenging activity and O-phthaldialdehyde spectrophotometric assay, respectively. The results revealed a strong correlation between DH and radical scavenging activity of the hydrolysates, where among these, protein hydrolysates produced by papain after 38 h hydrolysis exhibited the highest DH (91 ± 0.1%) and DPPH• radical scavenging activity (73.5 ± 0.25%) compared to the other hydrolysates. In addition, fractionation of the most effective (potent) hydrolysate by reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography indicated a direct association between hydrophobicity and radical scavenging activity of the hydrolysates. Isoelectric focusing tests also revealed that protein hydrolysates with basic and neutral isoelectric point (pI) have the highest radical scavenging activity, although few fractions in the acidic range also exhibited good antioxidant potential.
Synthesis and Spectral Evaluation of Some Unsymmetrical Mesoporphyrinic Complexes
Authors: Boscencu Rica , Oliveira Anabela Sousa , Ferreira Diana P. , Ferreira Luís Filipe Vieira
Published: June 2012

Synthesis and spectral evaluation of new zinc and copper unsymmetrical mesoporphyrinic complexes are reported. Zn(II)-5-(4-acetoxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-10,15,20-tris-(4-carboxymethylphenyl)porphyrin, Zn(II)-5-[(3,4-methylenedioxy)phenyl]-10,15,20-tris-(4-carboxymethylphenyl)porphyrin, Cu(II)-5-(4-acetoxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-10,15,20-tris-(4-carboxymethylphenyl)porphyrin and Cu(II)-5-[(3,4-methylenedioxy)phenyl]-10,15,20-tris-(4-carboxymethylphenyl)porphyrin were synthesized using microwave-assisted synthesis. The complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR, UV-Vis, EPR and NMR spectroscopy, which fully confirmed their structure. The spectral absorption properties of the porphyrinic complexes were studied in solvents with different polarities. Fluorescence emission and singlet oxygen formation quantum yields were evaluated for the compounds under study, revealing high yields for the zinc derivatives. The copper complexes are not emissive and only display residual capacity for singlet oxygen formation.
Rate Dependence of the Compressive Response of Ti Foams
Authors: Siegkas Petros , Tagarielli Vito L. , Petrinic Nik , Lefebvre Louis-Philippe
Published: June 2012

Titanium foams of relative density ranging from 0.3 to 0.9 were produced by titanium powder sintering procedures and tested in uniaxial compression at strain rates ranging from 0.01 to 2,000 s−1. The material microstructure was examined by X-ray tomography and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) observations. The foams investigated are strain rate sensitive, with both the yield stress and the strain hardening increasing with applied strain rate, and the strain rate sensitivity is more pronounced in foams of lower relative density. Finite element simulations were conducted modelling explicitly the material’s microstructure at the micron level, via a 3D Voronoi tessellation. Low and high strain rate simulations were conducted in order to predict the material’s compressive response, employing both rate-dependant and rate-independent constitutive models. Results from numerical analyses suggest that the primary source of rate sensitivity is represented by the intrinsic sensitivity of the foam’s parent material.
Zn-Pb Ores of Mississippi Valley Type in the Lycksele-Storuman District, Northern Sweden: A Possible Rift-Related Cambrian Mineralisation Event
Authors: Billström Kjell , Broman Curt , Schneider Jens , Pratt Warren , Skogsmo Göran
Published: June 2012

The epigenetic Zn-Pb deposits in the Lycksele-Storuman ore district, northern Sweden, are hosted by Paleoproterozoic basement near the margin of the Caledonian mountains. A paleogeographic reconstruction suggests that platform sediments, including Cambrian shales, overlaid the mineralised basement. The mineralisation type, containing sphalerite, galena, calcite and fluorite, is confined to veins and breccias and interpreted to be of Mississippi Valley Type (MVT) style. There is no appreciable wall rock alteration. Fluid inclusion work reveals coexisting aqueous and hydrocarbon fluids. Ore deposition is interpreted to have occurred during mixing of two fluids; a cool (
Association of Marijuana Use and Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome
Authors: Pattathan Mithun B. , Hejazi Reza A. , McCallum Richard W.
Published: June 2012

Cannabis use has become one of the most commonly abused drugs in the world. It is estimated that each year 2.6 million individuals in the USA become new users and most are younger than 19 years of age. Reports describe marijuana use as high as 40–50% in male Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome patients. It is this interest in cannabis in the World, coupled with recognition of a cyclic vomiting illness associated with its chronic use that beckons a review of the most current articles, as well as a contribution from our own experiences in this area. The similarities we have demonstrated for both cannibinoid hyperemesis syndrome and cyclic vomiting make the case that cannibinoid hyperemesis syndrome is a subset of patients who have the diagnoses of cyclic vomiting syndrome and the role of marijuana should always be considered in the diagnosis of CVS, particularly in males.
Distribution Patterns of Burned Areas in the Brazilian Biomes: An Analysis Based on Satellite Data for the 2002–2010 Period
Authors: Moreira de Araújo Fernando , Ferreira Laerte Guimarães , Arantes Arielle Elias
Published: June 2012

Fires modify the structure of vegetation communities, the carbon and water cycles, the soil’s chemistry, and affect the climate system. Within this context, this work aimed to understand the distribution patterns of burned areas in Brazil, during the period of 2002 to 2010, taking into consideration each one of the six Brazilian biomes (Amazon, Caatinga, Cerrado, Atlantic Forest, Pampa and Pantanal) and the respective major land cover classes. Data from the MODIS MCD45A1 product (burned area), as well as thermal anomalies (MOD14 and MYD14) and precipitation (TRMM), were analyzed according to the 2002 Brazilian official land cover and land use map (PROBIO). The Brazilian savanna biome, known as Cerrado, presented the largest concentration of burned areas detected by MODIS (73%), followed by the Amazon (14%), Pantanal (6%), Atlantic Forest (4%), Caatinga (3%), and Pampa (0,06%) biomes. Indeed, in the years of 2007 and 2010, 90% and 92% of Brazil’s burned areas were concentrated in the Cerrado and Amazon biomes, respectively. TRMM data indicated that during these two years there was a significant influence of La Niña, causing low rainfall in the Amazon, Cerrado, Caatinga, and Atlantic Forest biomes. Regarding the land cover classes, approximately 81% of the burned areas occurred over remnant vegetation areas. Although no unequivocal correlation can be established between burned areas and new land conversions, the conspicuous concentration of fire scars, particularly in Amazon–Cerrado transition (i.e., the Arc of Deforestation) is certainly not a simple coincidence. Such patterns and trends corroborate the need of improved territorial governance, in addition to the implementation of systematic fire warning and preventive systems.
Utility of Satellite and Aerial Images for Quantification of Canopy Cover and Infilling Rates of the Invasive Woody Species Honey Mesquite (Prosopis Glandulosa) on Rangeland
Authors: Mirik Mustafa , Ansley R. James
Published: June 2012

Woody plant encroachment into grasslands and rangelands is a world-wide phenomenon but detailed descriptions of changes in geographical distribution and infilling rates have not been well documented at large land scales. Remote sensing with either aerial or satellite images may provide a rapid means for accomplishing this task. Our objective was to compare the accuracy and utility of two types of images with contrasting spatial resolutions (1-m aerial and 30-m satellite) for classifying woody and herbaceous canopy cover and determining woody infilling rates in a large area of rangeland (800 km2) in north Texas that has been invaded by honey mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa). Accuracy assessment revealed that the overall accuracies for the classification of four land cover types (mesquite, grass, bare ground and other) were 94 and 87% with kappa coefficients of 0.89 and 0.77 for the 1-m and 30-m images, respectively. Over the entire area, the 30-m image over-estimated mesquite canopy cover by 9 percentage units (10 vs. 19%) and underestimated grass canopy cover by the same amount when compared to the 1-m image. The 30-m resolution image typically overestimated mesquite canopy cover within 225 4-ha sub-cells that contained a range of mesquite covers (1–70%) when compared to the 1-m image classification and was not suitable for quantifying infilling rates of this native invasive species. Documenting woody and non-woody canopy cover on large land areas is important for developing integrated, regional-scale management strategies for rangeland and grassland regions that have been invaded by woody plants.
Analysis of Building Envelope Insulation Performance Utilizing Integrated Temperature and Humidity Sensors
Authors: Hung San-Shan , Chang Chih-Yuan , Hsu Cheng-Jui , Chen Shih-Wei
Published: June 2012

A major cause of high energy consumption for air conditioning in indoor spaces is the thermal storage characteristics of a building’s envelope concrete material; therefore, the physiological signals (temperature and humidity) within concrete structures are an important reference for building energy management. The current approach to measuring temperature and humidity within concrete structures (i.e., thermocouples and fiber optics) is limited by problems of wiring requirements, discontinuous monitoring, and high costs. This study uses radio frequency integrated circuits (RFIC) combined with temperature and humidity sensors (T/H sensors) for the design of a smart temperature and humidity information material (STHIM) that automatically, regularly, and continuously converts temperature and humidity signals within concrete and transmits them by radio frequency (RF) to the Building Physiology Information System (BPIS). This provides a new approach to measurement that incorporates direct measurement, wireless communication, and real-time continuous monitoring to assist building designers and users in making energy management decisions and judgments.
Legume Lectins Inhibit Human Parainfluenza Virus Type 2 Infection by Interfering with the Entry
Authors: Uematsu Jun , Koyama Aoi , Takano Sayaka , Ura Yukari , Tanemura Miho , Kihira Sahoko , Yamamoto Hidetaka , Kawano Mitsuo , Tsurudome Masato , O’Brien Myles , Komada Hiroshi
Published: June 2012

Three lectins with different sugar binding specificities were investigated for anti-viral activity against human parainfluenza virus type 2 (hPIV-2). The lectins, concanavalin A (Con A), lens culinaris agglutinin (LCA) and peanut agglutinin (PNA), inhibited cell fusion and hemadsorption induced by hPIV-2. Virus nucleoprotein (NP) gene synthesis was largely inhibited, but fusion (F) and hemagglutinin-neuraminidase (HN) gene syntheses were not. An indirect immunofluorescence study showed that Con A inhibited virus NP, F and HN protein syntheses, but LCA did not completely inhibit them, and that PNA inhibited only NP protein synthesis. Using a recombinant green fluorescence protein-expressing hPIV-2, without matrix protein (rghPIV-2ΔM), it was found that virus entry into the cells was not completely prevented. The lectins considerably reduced the number of viruses released compared with that of virus infected cells. The lectins bound to cell surface within 10 min, and many aggregates were observed at 30 min. Con A and LCA slightly disrupted actin microfilaments and microtubules, but PNA had almost no effect on them. These results indicated that the inhibitory effects of the lectins were caused mainly by the considerable prevention of virus adsorption to the cells by the lectin binding to their receptors.
Toward unidirectional switches: 2-(2-Hydroxyphenyl)pyridine and 2-(2-methoxyphenyl)pyridine derivatives as pH-triggered pivots
Authors: Tepper Christina , Haberhauer Gebhard
Published: June 2012

The pH-induced switching process of 2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)pyridine and 2-(2-methoxyphenyl)pyridine derivatives was investigated with the help of UV spectroscopy. Quantum chemical calculations at the B3LYP/6-31G* level of theory were performed to show that in the case of 2-(2-methoxyphenyl)-3-methylpyridine and 2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-3-methylpyridine the rotation during the switching process proceeds unidirectionally at the molecular level. If a 2-(2-methoxyphenyl)pyridine derivative is fixed to a chiral cyclopeptidic scaffold, a unidirectional progress of the rotation is achieved macroscopically.
ENERGY BALANCE OF A LOW ENERGY HOUSE
Authors: Džiugaitė-Tumėnienė Rasa , Jankauskas Vidmantas , Motuzienė Violeta
Published: June 2012

Currently, such topics as improvement of energy efficiency of buildings and energy systems, development of sustainable building concepts, and promotion of renewable energy sources are in the focus of attention. The energy efficiency targets of the European Union are based on information regarding energy consumed by buildings. The amount of energy consumed by buildings depends on the main influencing factors (namely, climate parameters, building envelope, energy systems, building operation and maintenance, activities and behaviour of occupants), which have to be considered in order to identify energy efficiency potentials and opportunities. The article aims to investigate the total amount of energy consumed by a low energy house, built in Lithuania, using a combination of energy consumption data received from a simulation and measured energy consumption data. The energy performance analysis in the low energy house revealed some factors that have the main influence on the total figures of energy consumed by the house. The identified significant factors were used to find the optimal solutions for the design of low energy buildings.
REDUCTION OF CEMENT CONSUMPTION BY THE AID OF SILICA NANO-PARTICLES (INVESTIGATION ON CONCRETE PROPERTIES)
Authors: Bahadori Hadi , Hosseini Payam
Published: June 2012

In this study, effects of replacing cement with colloidal amorphous silica nano-particles have been experimentally investigated on the physical and mechanical properties, durability and microstructure of concrete. Experimental results include workability, fresh concrete density, and hardened concrete properties like compressive strength at different ages of 3, 7, and 28-days, and also 28-days splitting tensile strength. Furthermore, influence of silica nano-particles on durability and microstructure of concrete for 28-days specimens was tested by conducting water absorption test, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDAX), respectively. In order to study the effect of replacement of cement with silica nano-particles, specimens with 10%, 20%, and 30% cement reduction, and addition of 1%, 2%, and 3% silica nano-particles with respect to witness specimen were fabricated. Experimental results revealed that 20% reduction of cement combining 2% silica nano-particles and also 10% cement reduction combined with 1% silica nano-particles enhance the microstructure of concrete, despite unnoticeable compressive and tensile strength loss. By remarkable reduction of cement consumption and addition of silica nano-particles, strength almost remains constant and consequently decreasing the cement content will become possible. Also, in all specimens, increase in nano-particles content and decrease in cement usage contributed to workability loss. Therefore, applying super-plasticizers seems indispensible while using silica nano-particles. On the other side, according to water absorption test, concretes containing nanoparticles showed more appropriate durability.
AN APPROACH TO MULTIPLE ATTRIBUTE GROUP DECISION MAKING WITH INTERVAL INTUITIONISTIC TRAPEZOIDAL FUZZY INFORMATION
Authors: Wei Guiwu , Zhao Xiaofei , Wang Hongjun
Published: June 2012

In this paper, we investigate the multiple attribute group decision making (MAGDM) problems in which both the attribute weights and the expert weights take the form of real numbers, attribute values take the form of interval intuitionistic trapezoidal fuzzy numbers. Firstly, some operational laws of interval intuitionistic trapezoidal fuzzy numbers are introduced. Then some new aggregation operators including interval intuitionistic trapezoidal fuzzy ordered weighted geometric (IITFOWG) operator and interval intuitionistic trapezoidal fuzzy hybrid geometric (IITFHG) operator are proposed and some desirable properties of these operators are studied, such as commutativity, idempotency and monotonicity. An IITFWG and IITFHG operators-based approach is developed to solve the MAGDM problems in which both the attribute weights and the expert weights take the form of real numbers and attribute values take the form of interval intuitionistic trapezoidal fuzzy numbers. Finally, some illustrative examples are given to verify the developed approach and to demonstrate its practicality and effectiveness.
TECHNOLOGY STOCKS AND ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE OF GOVERNMENT-LINKED COMPANIES: THE CASE OF MALAYSIA
Authors: Wong Chan-Yuan , Govindaraju V. G. R. Chandran
Published: June 2012

On the basis of the case study of the selected government-linked companies (GLCs), this paper examines the technological stock progress and further assesses its implication for growth. A synthesized framework of analysis (using technological stock and logistic growth function) is proposed to highlight the virtuous cycle between R&D investment, technology stock and growth. The results suggest that two of the selected firms (Proton and Golden Hope), indeed, showed better technological progress. However, Proton seems to achieve the maturity stage of technology and further needs to enhance its technology capability to drive its performance in the future. In contrast, TNB is found to lack the technological development to promote performance. The results, on the one hand, suggest that technology development is mostly progressive with high returns in the areas where the country has definite comparative advantage (e.g. oil palm) and when better partnership exists. On the other hand, in a highly protective market, the technological progress is slow – the case of energy sector – and contribution of technology progress towards growth is in lack – as in the case of automotive sector. Case comparison suggests that attempts to develop technology require competitive market with less government protective measures.
GEOMAGNETIC MEASUREMENTS IN LATVIA
Authors: Shuljakova Ljuba
Published: June 2012

The knowledge of the Earth's magnetic field elements and their dynamic fluctuations over the area concerned are important and can be used for many practical purposes in various fields, including Geodesy and Cartography.

Earth's magnetic field tends to vary over time. Unlike the field of a bar magnet, Earth's field changes over time because it is really generated by the motion of molten iron alloys in the Earth's outer core. Long-term magnetic field changes are caused mainly by processes in the Earth's interior, particularly the iron-rich core. Short-term changes of the magnetic field are mainly caused by the currents in the ionosphere and magnetosphere generated by Solar activity.

The Latvian Geospatial Information Agency (LGIA) has monumented repeat stations and started periodical Earth's magnetic field declination and inclination measurements in Latvia in 2004. The Network of 6 repeat stations is regularly distributed over the territory of Latvia. The repeat stations of Latvia are: Aglona; Ozolaine; Mikeltornis; Velena; Nigrande; Vilkene.

In every repeat station the D, I and F values were determined. Declination on territory of Latvia changes from 4° till 8° in the West – East direction. Magnetometer LEMI – 203 together with theodolite 3T2KP and proton magnetometer PMP 5 were used for measurements. Coordinates of the stations were determined by double frequency (L1/L2) GPS receivers. Determined coordinates were used to obtain geographical azimuth.

For reduction the data from Toravere (Estonia) observatory were used, where a variometer from the Nurmijarvi Geophysical Observatory is located. Repeat station points are fixed with benchmarks. Benchmarks are non-magnetic. All the data were sent to the British Geological Survey National Geoscience Data Centre.
Le caractère socio-émotionnel des relations de soutien social à l'hôpital
Authors: Ruiller Caroline
Published: June 2012

Résumé La dégradation des conditions de travail, notamment en France, est régulièrement dénoncée (Fondation de Dublin, 2002 ; Enquête Sumer, 2003). Le secteur hospitalier par les réformes successives qu’il traverse, vit une « crise morale » (Couanau, 2003). L’objet de cet article est de comprendre le concept de soutien social étudié en sociologie, psychologie, épidémiologie, mais méconnu par les chercheurs en Sciences de Gestion français. Les résultats exploratoires d’une étude de cas en milieu hospitalier (soixante-deux entretiens) montrent l’importance de la composante socio-émotionnelle et la co-existence d’un soutien « professionnel » et d’un soutien à la sphère « personnelle » de l’individu, dont l’expression se fait par l’ouverture aux autres, par l’empathie et par la transmission d’émotions positives.
L'éco-construction : quel positionnement pour les artisans ?
Authors: de Ferran Florence , Lallement Jeanne , Sueur Isabelle
Published: June 2012

Résumé Quel positionnement pour l’artisan qui s’inscrit dans une démarche de développement durable ? A partir de cette interrogation, cette recherche explore les perceptions de l’éco-construction par les consommateurs. Après avoir présenté le cadre conceptuel, nous présentons la démarche exploratoire utilisée. 14 entretiens semi-directifs ont été conduits auprès de clients d’éco-artisans. Une analyse de contenu nous permet d’identifier ce qui caractérise un éco-artisan et les axes de communication utiles à leur positionnement.
La mutualisation logistique dans le canal de distribution : une stratégie de contournement de la Loi de Modernisation de l'Economie
Authors: Livolsi Laurent , Camman Christelle
Published: June 2012

Résumé Cet article s’intéresse aux conséquences de la Loi de Modernisation de l’Economie (LME) dans la grande distribution. Son objectif est de montrer comment la refonte des organisations logistiques, fondée sur une plus grande mutualisation des approvisionnements, constitue une réponse commune des industriels et des distributeurs pour atténuer ces conséquences. L’observation de ces pratiques révèle les enjeux de ces nouvelles organisations logistiques pour les distributeurs et les industriels, mais aussi leurs risques, particulièrement pour les PME. Celles-ci mobilisent alors les institutions locales (CCI, conseils généraux ou régionaux) pour promouvoir ces démarches à l’échelle de leur territoire, poussant ainsi les pouvoirs publics à s’inscrire, au-delà d’une simple logique d’équilibration (via les textes législatifs), dans une logique d’action.
La distribution de produits monastiques par Internet : la nature des dimensions innovantes des sites marchands est-elle contingente de l'ancrage religieux ou laïc des sites ?
Authors: Paquier Marie-Catherine , Morin-Delerm Sophie
Published: June 2012

Résumé La vente par Internet de produits de grande consommation s’intensifie et fait appel à des ressorts de plus en plus sophistiqués. La distribution des produits monastiques n’échappe pas à la tendance. L’étude exhaustive des onze sites marchands spécialisés met en évidence les dimensions innovantes de cette distribution singulière. La nature des dimensions transactionnelles, relationnelles et informationnelles s’avère contingente de l’ancrage (religieux ou laïc) des sites. Des préconisations managériales sont alors proposées.
« Take 1, get 5 ! » : la fidélisation collective des adolescentes aux magasins de prêt-à-porter
Authors: Gentina Élodie , Collin-Lachaud Isabelle , Fosse-Gomez Marie-Hélène
Published: June 2012

Résumé L’objectif de cette recherche est d’explorer les clefs de la fidélité des adolescentes au point de vente en prenant en considération leur manière collective de pratiquer le shopping. Le domaine du prêt-à-porter apparaît comme un terrain d’application privilégié, puisque les adolescentes y consacrent une part importante de leurs dépenses. Une étude qualitative a été menée auprès de seize adolescentes et de leur groupe d’amies respectif. Le shopping des adolescentes constitue bien un comportement collectif. Les enseignes pourraient adopter une vision plus collective de la fidélité qui se traduirait dans leurs pratiques marketing (programme relationnel, merchandising, théâtralisation du magasin, politique de prix, de communication...) sans pour autant négliger l’adolescente en tant qu’individu. Toutefois, tous les groupes d’adolescentes ne présentent pas la même structure, et il importe d’identifier celle qui tient le rôle de leader.
Client « exécutant », « assistant marketing opérationnel », « relais » ou « apporteur de solutions » : Dis-moi ce que tu fais, je te dirai qui tu es !
Authors: Bonnemaizon Audrey , Cadenat Sandrine , Benoit-Moreau Florence , Renaudin Valérie
Published: June 2012

Résumé Les entreprises tendent à impliquer le consommateur dans la production du service depuis de nombreuses années. Ces approches se développent aujourd’hui massivement et prônent une nouvelle vision des consommateurs, véritables partenaires de marché, co-créateurs de valeur, et non plus simples réceptacles passifs d’offres. Ce phénomène de participation constitue un courant de recherche assez récent, tant en marketing qu’en sociologie de la consommation mais il semble toutefois nécessaire de réarticuler les différents champs théoriques afin de mieux comprendre les dispositifs mis en place par les entreprises et les intérêts que les clients peuvent en retirer. Cette recherche met en évidence quatre figures du consommateur : le client exécutant , l’ assistant marketing , le relais ou encore l’ apporteur de solutions . Elle précise ainsi son rôle attendu dans la création du service.
Dispositifs formels et collaborations interindividuelles autour des aménités environnementales
Authors: Boschet Christophe , Rambonilaza Tina
Published: June 2012

Résumé L’article propose une analyse de la gouvernance territoriale des espaces écologiquement remarquables, en s’appuyant pour l’analyse empirique sur le cas des communes bordant l’estuaire de la Gironde. L’article offre dans un premier temps les jalons théoriques de cette analyse, et notamment de la nécessité et des limites des dispositifs dédiés aux enjeux environnementaux comme outil de coordination collective à l’échelle territoriale. L’approche structurale des analyses en termes de réseaux sociaux est alors proposée comme stratégie d’investigation empirique. Elle consiste dans un premier temps à identifier et à analyser la composition des acteurs convoqués et participants dans les différents dispositifs. Cette composition est comparée par la suite avec une liste de noms obtenue à partir d’une enquête d’identification ad hoc des acteurs incontournables des enjeux estuariens. La reconstitution des relations de collaboration au travers de la même enquête et l’analyse de ces relations en termes de réseaux sociaux permet par la suite l’identification des acteurs-clés de l’action collective territoriale autour des aménités et d’esquisser les traits caractéristiques du fonctionnement de ce réseau d’acteurs.
Les compétences interculturelles : un défi pour la sélection et la formation des employés expatriés
Authors: Cerdin Jean Luc
Published: June 2012

Résumé Dans une économie qui se mondialise de plus en plus, cet article invite les organisations à aller au-delà des compétences techniques dans le recrutement et la sélection des employés expatriés pour s’attarder aux compétences interculturelles, que l’on peut mesurer par l’intelligence culturelle, l’intelligence émotionnelle et la présence de certains traits de personnalité. L’article insiste aussi sur l’importance de bien analyser la manière dont la décision d’expatriation a été prise par le cadre et les membres de sa famille ainsi que les motifs et les atouts que chacun perçoit dans ce séjour à l’étranger. Finalement, nous mettons l’accent sur la nécessité d’investir dans la formation interculturelle des employés expatriés, aussi bien avant leur séjour à l’étranger que pendant celui-ci.
Les cadres expatriés au Mexique : défis et conseils clés
Authors: Arcand Sébastien , Hernández Báez Annabel
Published: June 2012

Résumé Dans le contexte de l’accélération du processus de mondialisation, l’expatriation des cadres est de plus en plus fréquente. À partir d’une analyse des actions entreprises par des cadres québécois travaillant au Mexique, nous décrivons dans cet article les quatre principaux défis auxquels ils font face : le défi des rapports hiérarchiques et de la supervision, le défi de la communication et des relations interpersonnelles, le défi de la participation et de la motivation du personnel ainsi que le défi de l’intégration des équipes de travail. Nous indiquons également les pratiques que les expatriés appliquent pour s’adapter à leur nouvel environnement. Finalement, nous proposons deux conseils clés aux cadres qui veulent réussir leur projet d’expatriation ainsi que deux recommandations clés que leurs sièges sociaux ou maisons mères doivent mettre en œuvre afin de faciliter leur intégration et leur adaptation.
Comprendre les préoccupations du conjoint qui doit suivre un expatrié à l'étranger
Authors: Mérignac Olivier , Roger Alain
Published: June 2012

Résumé L’article s’adresse principalement à des personnes vivant en couple et dont le conjoint est susceptible de se voir proposer un emploi à l’étranger. Ces personnes se demandent généralement si elles doivent suivre leur conjoint à l’étranger ; ce que leur conjoint et son employeur peuvent faire pour les appuyer ou pour aider les enfants à s’intégrer ; s’il est possible de tenir compte de la situation du couple et plus largement de la famille dans cette décision de l’expatriation ; comment faire pour que l’expatriation soit une occasion de développement pour tous les membres de la famille ; comment éviter un retour prématuré et accroître les retombées positives et le succès du séjour. Voilà autant d’interrogations sur lesquelles cet article se penche et offre matière à réflexion.
La rémunération des expatriés : le point de vue européen d'un consultant suisse
Authors: Davoine Eric , Salamin Alain
Published: June 2012

Résumé Ce texte brosse un tableau des différents types de rémunération et d’avantages qui peuvent être associés aux contrats d’employés expatriés. À travers les extraits d’un entretien mené avec un expert suisse, ancien directeur des ressources humaines Europe d’une multinationale américaine, nous présentons les principaux enjeux liés à la rémunération des expatriés ainsi que les nouvelles tendances observées dans ce domaine.
Le travail des professionnels de la relation d'aide : jongler avec des gratifications et des souffrances
Authors: Edey Gamassou Claire , Moisson-Duthoit Virginie
Published: June 2012

Résumé Les problèmes de stress et d’épuisement que vivent les professionnels de la relation d’aide sont-ils la contrepartie inévitable de leur dévouement ? Nous visons dans cet article à permettre de comprendre la complexité des situations propres au travail de relation d’aide, en nous appuyant sur la documentation et sur des entrevues menées auprès de professionnels de ce domaine. Ainsi, nous insistons sur deux types de gratifications, soit la reconnaissance exprimée par les personnes aidées et la fierté d’exercer un métier qu’on aime. De même, nous examinons deux sources de souffrance au travail, soit la perte du sens du travail et le manque de reconnaissance et de respect de la part de la direction. Par la suite, nous précisons certaines voies que peuvent emprunter les employeurs et les employés afin de mieux maîtriser le paradoxe des gratifications et de la souffrance qu’on observe dans les milieux orientés vers la relation d’aide. Nous proposons aux dirigeants des conseils axés sur le respect des forces des professionnels de la relation d’aide, sur la sauvegarde du sens du travail de ces derniers et sur leur besoin de reconnaissance. Puis, nous donnons des conseils aux professionnels afin qu’ils puissent s’occuper d’eux-mêmes, prendre une saine distance par rapport au travail, faire preuve d’authenticité et d’honnêteté envers eux-mêmes et les autres et, au besoin, demander de l’aide.
Comment prévenir une crise ? Les leçons tirées des plaintes de maltraitance au Centre de soins de longue durée Saint-Charles-Borromée
Authors: Lalonde Carole , Roux-Dufort Christophe
Published: June 2012

Résumé La gestion inadéquate d’une crise peut mener à l’adoption de mesures aussi problématiques, sinon plus, que les maux qu’elle cherche à résoudre. Le cas du Centre d’hébergement de soins de longue durée Saint-Charles-Borromée montre comment une gestion autoritaire et punitive, bien que légitimant l’intervention gouvernementale aux yeux du public et permettant de redresser à court terme la situation, réussit rarement à faire disparaître les zones de vulnérabilité avec lesquelles l’organisation doit composer quotidiennement. Les enseignements apportés par la gestion de la crise dans ce CHSLD peuvent toutefois être généralisés à d’autres types d’organisations et répondre à des questions que nombre de dirigeants se posent : comment mieux gérer une crise ? Comment s’attaquer aux causes profondes d’une crise plutôt que de se borner à éteindre les feux et à distribuer les blâmes ? Cet article présente les faits saillants d’une crise particulière. Puis, nous analysons ce cas en faisant ressortir les sources de risques associées aux diverses parties prenantes (la société, l’institution et l’administration locale, le personnel soignant et les patients). Par la suite, nous montrons que, dans la gestion d’une crise, les interventions de contrôle doivent se conjuguer avec des interventions proactives et préventives portant sur le caractère systémique de la crise. Enfin, pour tirer des leçons de cette crise, nous donnons des conseils de gestion tant aux établissements de santé qu’aux organisations en général afin de prévenir l’apparition de telles crises.
Écrire le contraste au-delà des typologies : l'apport de l'histoire croisée à la comparaison internationale
Authors: Gally Natacha
Published: June 2012

Résumé Cet article présente une expérience de comparaison internationale de deux cas habituellement considérés comme très différents. En s’appuyant sur les travaux sur l’histoire croisée, il tente de dépasser les écueils traditionnels des typologies : leur caractère statique dans le temps et leur insuffisante prise en compte de l’interdépendance des cas considérés. La mise en évidence des rapports asymétriques du comparatiste aux terrains de l’enquête, d’une part, et l’analyse des circulations internationales entre les deux cas, d’autre part, permet de réintroduire ces deux dimensions – temporelle et spatiale – dans la comparaison de cas contrastés. Cette démarche donne ainsi des clés pour tenir ensemble, dans l’écriture de la comparaison, la singularité des configurations nationales et les enjeux communs aux trajectoires des cas étudiés. L’histoire croisée se révèle un outil précieux pour construire le fragile équilibre du plan comparatif, entre restitution monographique faisant la part belle aux terrains de l’enquête et comparaison systématique permettant la montée en généralité.
Écrire la comparaison lorsque les données sont asymétriques. Une analyse de l'engagement dans les dispositifs participatifs brésiliens
Authors: Sa Vilas Boas Marie-Hélène
Published: June 2012

Résumé La méthode comparative suppose d’appliquer les mêmes techniques d’investigation aux cas étudiés afin de recueillir des données similaires. Toutefois, cette démarche n’est pas toujours heuristique ni même possible, selon le déroulement des enquêtes de terrain. Cet article aborde l’écriture de la comparaison en interrogeant, dans un premier temps, l’exigence de symétrie au cœur de l’approche comparative. L’on peut se demander en effet si l’asymétrie constitue un écueil ou un problème consubstantiel à la comparaison. Il analyse ensuite l’« acte » d’écriture dans le processus de recherche afin de comprendre l’influence de la rédaction sur la comparaison.
Structurer la comparaison par l'expérience de l'écriture
Authors: Giraud Colin
Published: June 2012

Résumé Cet article porte sur les enjeux d’écriture d’un manuscrit de recherche ayant trait au rôle des populations homosexuelles masculines dans les processus de gentrification à Paris et à Montréal. Il montre comment l’écriture modifie et définit progressivement elle-même les cadres, les termes et les enjeux de la comparaison. En décrivant les étapes et les incertitudes de la démarche comparative, on comprend le rôle décisif de la mise en forme des données dans la définition des modalités et des termes de la comparaison. L’étape de la définition d’un plan d’écriture et certains passages de l’analyse du matériau empirique montrent combien les techniques d’écriture les plus formelles révèlent en réalité des enjeux de contenu beaucoup plus cruciaux.