bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Achieving complete mesocolic excision (CME) for colon cancer by laparoscopy
Authors: Xynos Evaghelos
Published: October 2014

In accordance to the total mesorectal excision concept for rectal cancer,
that of the complete mesocolic excision (CME) for colon cancer has been
recently developed. CME involves dissection along the embryological planes,
ligation and division of the supplying vessels at their origin and removal of
a specimen with intact fascia and peritoneum, adequate distal and proximal
bowel margin as well as the maximum number of the regional lymph nodes. CME
surgery seems to achieve better oncological outcomes, in terms of local
recurrence and survival, as compared to standard colectomy. CME has also been
attempted by the laparoscopic approach. Provided that the tumour is located
at the left or right and not at the transverse, a specimen of high quality
can be resected, similar to that obtained by the open approach. There is also
evidence that the oncological results of laparoscopic CME are superior to
those achieved by the standard laparoscopic surgery, and similar to those
achieved by open CME.
Conversion-to-open of laparoscopic surgery for rectal cancer: Impact on outcomes
Authors: Xynos Evaghelos
Published: October 2014

Low anterior resection of the rectum (LARR) with total mesorectal excision
(TME) for rectal cancer by laparoscopy is considered very technically
demanding, particularly at the stages of dissection around the mesorectal
fascia deep into the pelvis and transection of the rectum distally to the
tumour. These technical difficulties translate to an increased
conversion-to-open rate, higher than that seen after laparoscopic surgery for
colon cancer. Conversion-to-open is considered as a technical limitation of
the approach rather than a complication. There are reports claiming that
converted cases are associated with higher morbidity rates than the
laparoscopically completed. However, a review of the published articles
indicates that conversion-to-open shows similar overall morbidity and
mortality rates to those seen in the laparoscopically completed LARR-TME
cases, and only duration of surgery is longer and wound infection rate is
higher in the former group. Similarly, the overall oncological outcomes,
namely local recurrence, distant metastasis and overall survival rates, are
similar between the two groups.
Anorectal reconstruction using graciloplasty after abdominoperineal resection: A review of the current literature and recommendations for the future
Authors: Seow-En Isaac , Seow-Choen Francis
Published: October 2014

Background: Anorectal reconstruction with the gracilis muscle following
abdominoperineal resection (APR) is an option for patients who do not want a
permanent abdominal stoma. Despite some promising results, significant
heterogeneity still exists in the method and timing of surgery, as well as
the use of electrical stimulation. Aim: We review the literature so as to
make the best recommendations for the use of this procedure. Method: Nine of
the latest publications were reviewed looking at primary versus secondary
reconstruction, use of electrostimulation, double versus single
graciloplasty, surgical techniques, complications, functional outcomes, and
patient selection. Conclusion: Graciloplasty should be performed as a delayed
procedure about three years after APR so as to exclude those who develop
recurrence or otherwise adapt well to the abdominal stoma. Single muscle
graciloplasty can be performed with good results and an electrical stimulator
should only be implanted if continence cannot be achieved after biofeedback
training.
Radiofrequency-assisted liver resections for metastatic colorectal cancer: Technique and feasibility
Authors: Galun D. , Bogdanovic A. , Basaric D. , Bulajic P. , Bidzic N. , Zuvela M. , Milicevic M.
Published: October 2014

Radiofrequency (RF)-assisted resection techniques are associated with minimal
blood loss providing safe hemostasis of the transected liver 1-3 parenchyma.
Different RF-assisted liver resection techniques have been developed. The
presented RF technique is the sequentional coagulate-cut liver resection
technique (?The Belgrade technique?) and the difference from other techniques
is the way the electrode is used. A coagulate-cut liver resection cycle can
be described as a process of creating a 30-mm long and 6-8 mm wide cylinder
of coagulated and desiccated liver tissue by applying RF energy through the
non-insulated tip of the electrode inserted into the liver parenchyma and
then dividing the coagulated tissue by surgical scalpel or scissors. From
January 2001 to January 2014, 830 RF-assisted liver resections were performed
for various indications at the HPB unit of the Clinic for Digestive Surgery,
Clinical center of Serbia, Belgrade. Among 830 liver resections, 470
resections were performed in 383 patients with colorectal cancer liver
metastasis. Sixty-six patients experienced repeated liver resection
ranging from a second to a fifth resection. The majority of patients had
bi-lobar spread of the disease before the first liver resection was
performed. No difference was found in the postoperative morbidity between the
patients after the first, the second and the third liver resection (F=0.168;
p=0.846). 90-days mortality was 5.7% after the repeated liver resections and
2.5% in patients with one liver resection (X2=2.278; 4,13 p=0.165). Single
HPB unit experience has demonstrated that RF-assisted liver resection
technique is feasible, safe and effective procedure in the management of
patients with CRC liver metastasis.
Simultaneous approach of primary colorectal carcinoma and liver metastases
Authors: Popescu Irinel , Alexandrescu Sorin
Published: October 2014

Background: Optimal surgical approach to synchronous colorectal liver
metastases is a subject of debate. Aims: This retrospective study compares
the outcomes of patients undergoing simultaneous resection or delayed
resection. Methods: All 238 patients undergoing liver resection between 1995
and 2014 for liver only resectable synchronous colorectal metastases were
included in this study. Outcomes were compared between patients undergoing
simultaneous resection and delayed resection. Results: The morbidity and
mortality rates were similar between the two groups p value > 0.05), even in
patients with rectal tumors or undergoing major hepatectomies. The overall
survival rates achieved in the SR group were not significantly lower than in
DR group p value = 0.817), either in N-positive patients, or in patients
presenting multiple liver metastases. Conclusion: Simultaneous resection
provides similar morbidity, mortality and survival rates as delayed
resection, even in N-positive patients or those with primary rectal tumors,
multiple metastases or undergoing major hepatectomies.
Functional outcomes and quality of life in patients after rectocele repair
Authors: Shelygin Yury , Titov Alexandr , Biryukov Oleg , Mudrov Andrey , Orlova Larisa , Tikhonov Andrey , Fomenko Oxanay , Voinov Mikhail
Published: October 2014

Background: Rectocele is a herniation of rectal wall that can cause
evacuatory disorders. Despite the variety of surgical methods for rectocele
repair the procedure does not always alleviate symptoms. Aim of study: To
evaluate the long-term outcome and quality of life after rectocele repair.
Materials and Methods: From 2007 to 2011 forty one women were underwent
surgery for symptomatic rectocele. The patients age ranged from 24 to 64
(48,95?9,09) years old. Reinforcement of rectovaginal septum with mesh
implant was performed in 22 (53.7%) patients and transanal repair by circular
stapler (STARR)-19 (46.3%). Median follow-up time was 36 moths (6-60).
Results: Most of patients - 29 (70,7%) reported about improvement of rectal
evacuatory function after surgery. Another 12 (29,3%) women did not
experience of symptomatic improvement and even experienced a deterioration of
the symptoms. Quality of life was correlated with surgical outcomes. The
results of surgery didn?t depend of procedure. The factors influenced on
functional outcomes were revealed: age of patients, duration of constipations
and number of parity. Substantial improvement of the rectal evacuatory
function which was registered in patients at one year after surgery over time
turned to the worse and 43,9% of patients pointed the recurrence of symptoms.
Conclusion: Long term follow-up show a decrease of success rate to 43,9% of
patient treated.
Synthesis and Spectroscopic Characterisation of O-Chlorocarbonyl Derivatives of Bile Acid Methyl Esters
Authors: Skiera Iwona , Paryzek Zdzisław
Published: October 2014

The synthesis of O-chlorocarbonyl derivatives of a series of bile acid methyl esters is described. The steroidal chloroformate esters were prepared by the reaction of the respective hydroxy derivatives with triphosgene–pyridine in benzene at 25 °C. The O-chlorocarbonyl derivatives were characterised by spectroscopic methods.
Nano-MoO3 as a Highly Efficient Heterogeneous Catalyst for a One-Pot Synthesis of Tetrahydropyrimidine Derivatives in Water
Authors: Zarenezhad Elham , Rad Mohammad Navid Soltani , Mosslemin Mohammad Hossein , Tabatabaee Masoumeh , Behrouz Somayeh
Published: October 2014

A green and highly efficient one-pot synthesis of 16 1,3,4,5-tetrasubstituted 1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyrimidines, four of which are new, using a three-component reaction involving an aniline, formaldehyde and a dialkyl acetylenedicarboxylate in aqueous media at room temperature catalysed by nano-MoO3 has been achieved.
Heterogeneous Copper-Catalysed Cascade Reactions of 2-Bromobenzamides with β-Keto Esters Leading to Isoquinolin-1(2H)-One Derivatives
Authors: Zhao Hong , Wu Yichao , Wei Tin , Cai Mingzhong
Published: October 2014

The heterogeneous copper-catalysed cascade reaction of 2-bromobenzamides with β-keto esters was achieved in dioxane at 80 °C in the presence of the MCM-41-immobilised bidentate nitrogen copper(I) complex [MCM-41-2N-CuI] with Cs2CO3 as base, affording a variety of isoquinolin-1(2 H)-one derivatives in moderate to good yields. This heterogeneous copper catalyst can be recovered by a simple filtration and reused 10 times without significant loss of activity.
Characteristics of white spots in saturated wet snow
Authors: Kameda Takao , Harada Yasuhiro , Takahashi Shuhei
Published: October 2014

Many curious white spots of 1–10 cm diameter were found on wet snow (~10 mm thick) on the morning of 1 November 2009 in Kitami and Oketo in Hokkaido, Japan. At first glance, the white spots appeared to be made of spherically gathered snow; however, they had actually been formed by the scattering of sunlight over wet snow. Thin air bubbles enclosed in the wet snow caused a diffuse reflection of sunlight and formed the white spots. We refer to this phenomenon as white spotted wet snow. Although this type of snow has been briefly described previously, the formation process, meteorological conditions that lead to its formation, its vertical structure and the horizontal distribution of the white spots are unknown. Our study addresses these issues. In addition, three independent methods (a nearest-neighbour method, Voronoi diagram and two-dimensional correlation function) demonstrate that the white spots are not randomly distributed but tend to be surrounded by six other spots.
Parallelizing Particle Swarm Optimization in a Functional Programming Environment
Authors: Rabanal Pablo , Rodríguez Ismael , Rubio Fernando
Published: October 2014

Many bioinspired methods are based on using several simple entities which search for a reasonable solution (somehow) independently. This is the case of Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), where many simple particles search for the optimum solution by using both their local information and the information of the best solution found so far by any of the other particles. Particles are partially independent, and we can take advantage of this fact to parallelize PSO programs. Unfortunately, providing good parallel implementations for each specific PSO program can be tricky and time-consuming for the programmer. In this paper we introduce several parallel functional skeletons which, given a sequential PSO implementation, automatically provide the corresponding parallel implementations of it. We use these skeletons and report some experimental results. We observe that, despite the low effort required by programmers to use these skeletons, empirical results show that skeletons reach reasonable speedups.
Antioxidant and Immunoregulatory Activity of Polysaccharides from Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.)
Authors: Yao Yang , Shi Zhenxing , Ren Guixing
Published: October 2014

The water-extractable (QWP) and the alkali-extractable (QAP) polysaccharides from quinoa (named QWP and QAP, respectively) and their four polysaccharide sub-fractions (QWP-1, QWP-2, QAP-1 and QAP-2), were isolated and purified by anion-exchange and gel filtration chromatography. QWP-1 and QWP-2 were composed of Rha, Ara, Gal and GalA. QAP-1 and QAP-2 were composed of Rha, Ara, Man, Gal and GalA. Antioxidant and immunoregulatory activities of the polysaccharides were evaluated. The results showed that QWP-1, QWP-2, QAP-1 and QAP-2 had significant antioxidant and immunoregulatory activities. The results suggest that QWP-1, QWP-2, QAP-1 and QAP-2 could be used as potential antioxidants and immunomodulators.
Mechanical Reinforcement of Diopside Bone Scaffolds with Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Shuai Cijun , Liu Tingting , Gao Chengde , Feng Pei , Peng Shuping
Published: October 2014

Carbon nanotubes are ideal candidates for the mechanical reinforcement of ceramic due to their excellent mechanical properties, high aspect ratio and nanometer scale diameter. In this study, the effects of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the mechanical properties of diopside (Di) scaffolds fabricated by selective laser sintering were investigated. Results showed that compressive strength and fracture toughness improved significantly with increasing MWCNTs from 0.5 to 2 wt %, and then declined with increasing MWCNTs to 5 wt %. Compressive strength and fracture toughness were enhanced by 106% and 21%, respectively. The reinforcing mechanisms were identified as crack deflection, MWCNTs crack bridging and pull-out. Further, the scaffolds exhibited good apatite-formation ability and supported adhesion and proliferation of cells in vitro.
Anticancer Effect of Rutin Isolated from the Methanolic Extract of Triticum aestivum Straw in Mice
Authors: Dixit Savita
Published: October 2014

Rutin is the bioactive flavanoid isolated from the straw part of Triticum aestivum and possess various pharmacological applications. The aim of this study is to evaluate the chemopreventive potential of rutin in an experimental skin carcinogenesis mice model system. Skin tumor was induced by topical application of 7,12-dimethyl benz(a) anthracene (DMBA) and promoted by croton oil in Swiss albino mice. To assess the chemopreventive potential of rutin, it was orally administered at a concentration of (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg body weight) continued three times weekly for 16th weeks. The development of skin carcinogenesis was assessed by histopathological analysis. Reductions in tumor size and cumulative number of papillomas were seen due to rutin treatment. Average latent period was significantly increased as compared to carcinogen treated control. Rutin produced significant decrease in the activity of serum enzyme serum glutamate oxalate transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and bilirubin when compared with the control. They significantly increased the levels of enzyme involved in oxidative stress glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase. The elevated level of lipid peroxidase in the control group was significantly inhibited by rutin administration. The results from the present study suggest the chemopreventive effect of rutin in DMBA and croton oil induced skin carcinogenesis in swiss albino mice and one of the probable reasons would be its antioxidant potential.
Accumulation of Kaempferitrin and Expression of Phenyl-Propanoid Biosynthetic Genes in Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus)
Authors: Zhao Shicheng , Li Xiaohua , Cho Dong , Arasu Mariadhas , Al-Dhabi Naif , Park Sang
Published: October 2014

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus) is cultivated worldwide for its fiber; however, the medicinal properties of this plant are currently attracting increasing attention. In this study, we investigated the expression levels of genes involved in the biosynthesis of kaempferitrin, a compound with many biological functions, in different kenaf organs. We found that phenylalanine ammonia lyase (HcPAL) was more highly expressed in stems than in other organs. Expression levels of cinnamate 4-hydroxylase (HcC4H) and 4-coumarate-CoA ligase (Hc4CL) were highest in mature leaves, followed by stems and young leaves, and lowest in roots and mature flowers. The expression of chalcone synthase (HcCHS), chalcone isomerase (HcCHI), and flavone 3-hydroxylase (HcF3H) was highest in young flowers, whereas that of flavone synthase (HcFLS) was highest in leaves. An analysis of kaempferitrin accumulation in the different organs of kenaf revealed that the accumulation of this compound was considerably higher (>10-fold) in leaves than in other organs. On the basis of a comparison of kaempferitrin contents with the expression levels of different genes in different organs, we speculate that HcFLS plays an important regulatory role in the kaempferitrin biosynthetic pathway in kenaf.
New Developments in Spin Labels for Pulsed Dipolar EPR
Authors: Fielding Alistair , Concilio Maria , Heaven Graham , Hollas Michael
Published: October 2014

Spin labelling is a chemical technique that enables the integration of a molecule containing an unpaired electron into another framework for study. Given the need to understand the structure, dynamics, and conformational changes of biomacromolecules, spin labelling provides a relatively non-intrusive technique and has certain advantages over X-ray crystallography; which requires high quality crystals. The technique relies on the design of binding probes that target a functional group, for example, the thiol group of a cysteine residue within a protein. The unpaired electron is typically supplied through a nitroxide radical and sterically shielded to preserve stability. Pulsed electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) techniques allow small magnetic couplings to be measured (e.g., <50 MHz) providing information on single label probes or the dipolar coupling between multiple labels. In particular, distances between spin labels pairs can be derived which has led to many protein/enzymes and nucleotides being studied. Here, we summarise recent examples of spin labels used for pulse EPR that serve to illustrate the contribution of chemistry to advancing discoveries in this field.
Automatic Detection of Small Single Trees in the Forest-Tundra Ecotone Using Airborne Laser Scanning
Authors: Stumberg Nadja , Bollandsås Ole , Gobakken Terje , Næsset Erik
Published: October 2014

A large proportion of Norway’s land area is occupied by the forest-tundra ecotone. The vegetation of this temperature-sensitive ecosystem between mountain forest and the alpine zone is expected to be highly affected by climate change and effective monitoring techniques are required. For the detection of such small pioneer trees, airborne laser scanning (ALS) has been proposed as a useful tool employing laser height data. The objective of this study was to assess the capability of an unsupervised classification for automated monitoring programs of small individual trees using high-density ALS data. Field and ALS data were collected along a 1500 km long transect stretching from northern to southern Norway. Different laser and tree height thresholds were tested in various combinations within an unsupervised classification of tree and nontree raster cells employing different cell sizes. Suitable initial cell sizes for the exclusion of large treeless areas as well as an optimal cell size for tree cell detection were determined. High rates of successful tree cell detection involved high levels of commission error at lower laser height thresholds, however, exceeding the 20 cm laser height threshold, the rates of commission error decreased substantially with a still satisfying rate of successful tree cell detection.
Thermal and Daylighting Performance of Energy-Efficient Windows in Highly Glazed Residential Buildings: Case Study in Korea
Authors: Cheong Chang , Kim Taeyeon , Leigh Seung-Bok
Published: October 2014

Cooling load in highly glazed residential building can be excessively large due to uncontrolled solar energy entering the indoor space. This study focuses on the cooling load reduction and changes in the daylighting properties via the application of a double window system (DWS) with shading with various surface reflectivities in highly glazed residential buildings. Evaluation of thermal and daylighting performances is carried out using simulation tools. The reductions in cooling load and energy cost through the use of DWS are evaluated through a comparative simulation considering conventional windows: a single window and a double window. Three variables of window types, natural ventilation, and shading reflectivity are reflected in the study. According to our results, implementation of DWS reduced cooling load by 43%–61%. Electricity cost during the cooling period was reduced by a maximum of 24%. However, a shading device setting that prioritizes effective cooling load reduction can greatly decrease the daylighting factor and luminance level of indoor space. A DWS implementing shading device with highly reflective at all surfaces is appropriate option for the more comfortable thermal and visual environment, while a shading device with low reflectivity at rear of the surface can contribute an additional 4% cooling load reduction.
Limits—Urban Density and Mobility Networks in West Berlin during the Period of Containment
Authors: Carlow Vanessa
Published: October 2014

If space may be conceptualized as a natural resource, much like gas, oil, or minerals, then its production and use can also be thought of as something to be properly managed, taken care of, and not wasted. Limiting the expansion of the footprint of built-up land in urban areas forces this particular resource (space) to be used more efficiently—in a sense, compelling it to be more creative and productive. These spatial constraints on urban areas generate different kinds of densification processes within the existing city, propagating densification, and with it new patterns and uses in urban development, as well as novel approaches to mitigating the hazards of dense urban environments. This paper examines the case of how spatial containment in West Berlin during the period of the Berlin Wall (1961–1989) produced such outcomes. West Berlin during this period can be considered a unique case of spatial containment, where a relatively large and vibrant modern city had to work around a clear and indelible limit to its physical expansion. This paper will discuss ways in which the containment influenced patterns of development in West Berlin toward densification and connectivity, focusing on the expansion of its infrastructural networks, and discuss the development of a new building culture around transformation and densification, including hybrid architectures and mitigation devices to deal with difficult sites produced by the densification.
The Lysine 65 Residue in HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase Function and in Nucleoside Analog Drug Resistance
Authors: Garforth Scott , Lwatula Chisanga , Prasad Vinayaka
Published: October 2014

Mutations in HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (RT) that confer nucleoside analog RT inhibitor resistance have highlighted the functional importance of several active site residues (M184, Q151 and K65) in RT catalytic function. Of these, K65 residue is notable due to its pivotal position in the dNTP-binding pocket, its involvement in nucleoside analog resistance and polymerase fidelity. This review focuses on K65 residue and summarizes a substantial body of biochemical and structural studies of its role in RT function and the functional consequences of the K65R mutation.
A small azide-modified thiazole-based reporter molecule for fluorescence and mass spectrometric detection
Authors: Wolfram Stefanie , Würfel Hendryk , Habenicht Stefanie H , Lembke Christine , Richter Phillipp , Birckner Eckhard , Beckert Rainer , Pohnert Georg
Published: October 2014

Molecular probes are widely used tools in chemical biology that allow tracing of bioactive metabolites and selective labeling of proteins and other biomacromolecules. A common structural motif for such probes consists of a reporter that can be attached by copper(I)-catalyzed 1,2,3-triazole formation between terminal alkynes and azides to a reactive headgroup. Here we introduce the synthesis and application of the new thiazole-based, azide-tagged reporter 4-(3-azidopropoxy)-5-(4-bromophenyl)-2-(pyridin-2-yl)thiazole for fluorescence, UV and mass spectrometry (MS) detection. This small fluorescent reporter bears a bromine functionalization facilitating the automated data mining of electrospray ionization MS runs by monitoring for its characteristic isotope signature. We demonstrate the universal utility of the reporter for the detection of an alkyne-modified small molecule by LC–MS and for the visualization of a model protein by in-gel fluorescence. The novel probe advantageously compares with commercially available azide-modified fluorophores and a brominated one. The ease of synthesis, small size, stability, and the universal detection possibilities make it an ideal reporter for activity-based protein profiling and functional metabolic profiling.
Le logement dans les grands agrégats économiques
Authors: Baïetto-Beysson Sabine
Published: October 2014

Le logement est le premier poste de dépenses des ménages et sa part a progressé de manière quasiment continue depuis 20 ans, en lien avec l’amélioration du confort. De son côté, l’investissement en logement représente 28,9 % de l’investissement national. La construction neuve focalise l’attention et elle est le poste le plus sensible à la conjoncture, mais elle ne représente que la moitié de ce pourcentage. Le logement, financé en majorité par le crédit banalisé, constitue également un levier essentiel d’accumulation du patrimoine des Français, dont il représente près des deux tiers, avec de fortes inégalités. Enfin, les aides au logement, dans un contexte de tension des finances publiques, ont fortement crû durant la dernière décennie pour atteindre en 2011 un pic de 44,9 Md€, soit 2,3 % du PIB, une décrue ayant été amorcée en 2012 et 2013. L’État apporte un peu plus de la moitié des aides : les aides à la personne sont les plus élevées mais relativement contenues, les aides à la pierre sont très minoritaires, et ce sont les multiples aides fiscales qui ont été les plus dynamiques lors de la dernière décennie, avec une forte inertie des aides à l’investissement locatif. Espérons que ces chiffres permettront d’éclairer les débats – trop souvent teintés d’idéologie et de vécu personnel – sur l’efficacité des politiques du logement. Classification JEL : R20, R30, R28, R38.
L'évolution en Europe du profil des ménages propriétaires pendant la crise
Authors: Le Bayon Sabine , Madec Pierre
Published: October 2014

La volonté de posséder son « chez soi » et de se constituer un patrimoine est largement généralisée en Europe. La baisse des taux d’intérêt au cours des années 2000 et la concurrence accrue entre établissements bancaires ont favorisé la distribution du crédit avant que la crise financière de 2007 ne remette en question ces évolutions. Malgré des mesures publiques de soutien au secteur immobilier, la chute du crédit (dans un contexte d’assainissement du bilan des banques et de ralentissement de la croissance du revenu des ménages) s’est accompagnée, après une décennie de boom immobilier, d’une baisse des prix immobiliers dans de nombreux pays européens. L’exception notable étant l’Allemagne où après dix ans de baisse, les prix se sont stabilisés au milieu des années 2000 et remontent même depuis 2010. Face à ces évolutions, nous observons ici dans quelle mesure d’une part la mobilité des ménages a évolué et d’autre part le contexte macroéconomique a modifié le profil des ménages qui achètent. Nos régressions logit confirment que les premières victimes du resserrement des conditions de crédit ont été les ménages les plus jeunes et/ou les plus modestes. Dans l’ensemble des pays étudiés (Allemagne, Espagne, France, Italie et Royaume-Uni), les ménages modestes ont vu leur probabilité d’achat fortement réduite et ce même en Allemagne où la probabilité d’achat des autres ménages a eu tendance à stagner voire à croître. La probabilité d’achat des ménages de moins de 30 ans a particulièrement baissé en Espagne. Seule exception, la France, où le maintien de conditions de crédit assez favorables, la réforme du prêt à taux zéro et l’augmentation des donations ont permis aux jeunes de continuer à acheter dans les mêmes proportions. Classification JEL : D14, E21, R21, R31, R38.
Le marché du logement ancien
Authors: Taffin Claude
Published: October 2014

Si le marché de l’ancien constitue désormais la majorité du marché du logement, son développement est relativement récent : il a accompagné, avec décalage, la montée de l’accession à la propriété. Longtemps négligé par les pouvoirs publics et les économistes, il doit au notariat d’avoir mis en place les bases de données qui permettent de calculer les indices de prix Notaires-INSEE et d’informer sur la consistance des biens échangés et les parties prenantes à la transaction. La source notariale permet une description détaillée du cycle commencé en 1998. À l’inverse du précédent, celui-ci se caractérise par une flambée des prix présente sinon uniforme sur tout le territoire, du moins jusqu’en 2008. Ce n’est qu’après la crise qu’apparaît une forte différenciation entre les métropoles, Paris en tête, et le reste du territoire. Le crédit facile et bon marché explique une bonne part de la hausse des prix. La croissance de la part des détentions de courte durée sur la période 2005-2007 laisse cependant soupçonner l’existence de comportements spéculatifs. Le rôle des acquéreurs étrangers dans la hausse des prix doit par ailleurs être ramené à sa juste proportion : parmi les acquéreurs personnes physiques, moins d’une sur quarante en moyenne est un étranger non résident. Classification JEL : C81, R21, R30, R31, R32.
Le secteur locatif privé en Europe : des trajectoires différentes, des tensions similaires ?
Authors: Whitehead Christine M. E.
Published: October 2014

Cet article étudie l’effet de la réglementation du secteur locatif sur le rôle de la location privée dans différents pays européens et sur l’évolution actuelle des dispositifs réglementaires. Il développe les trois types de réglementations qui ont été mises en pratique depuis la Seconde Guerre mondiale et leurs effets sur les motivations des propriétaires et des locataires. Il montre que les formes traditionnelles de réglementation qui maintenaient les loyers en dessous des prix du marché aboutissent à long terme au dysfonctionnement du secteur locatif. Cependant, des systèmes de contrôle des loyers de « troisième génération », dans lesquels les loyers initiaux sont fixés par le marché mais avec des baux longs et des taux d’augmentation déterminés, peuvent aider à réduire les défaillances du marché. Il est aussi montré que la portée de la réglementation n’induit pas nécessairement des changements de taille du secteur, principalement du fait de l’influence d’autres facteurs. Cet article étudie les systèmes en vigueur dans plusieurs pays européens, notamment en Allemagne, aux Pays-Bas et en France. Il s’intéresse en particulier à la façon dont, dans de nombreux pays, les gouvernements répondent aux pressions du marché en augmentant le contrôle et aux conséquences potentielles de ces contrôles. Classification JEL : R28, R30, R38.
Logement, crédit et surveillance macroprudentielle
Authors: Avouyi-Dovi Sanvi , Labonne Claire , Lecat Rémy
Published: October 2014

La surveillance macroprudentielle bénéficie désormais d’un cadre institutionnel dans les pays avancés. Cet article présente les outils disponibles pour le diagnostic du marché immobilier résidentiel et du marché du crédit à l’habitat, marchés qui sont intrinsèquement liés. Des indicateurs clés font l’objet d’un suivi régulier, mais ils peuvent être tardifs compte tenu de l’inertie du marché immobilier. Les méthodes complémentaires de capitalisation risquent également de produire des indicateurs tardifs car elles ignorent la réaction de l’offre à terme. Les outils de détection avancée des risques n’ont pas de présupposés théoriques mais ils peuvent ignorer des ajustements inattendus des fondamentaux. La modélisation des comportements offre l’alternative théoriquement la plus satisfaisante, mais présente d’importants défis de mise en œuvre. Enfin, une modélisation du marché immobilier et du marché du crédit dans le cas français est présentée. Classification JEL : G21, G28, R31, R51.
L'exclusion financière en France : une lecture en filigrane des modèles économiques bancaires
Authors: Figuet Jean-Marc , Pinos Fabienne
Published: October 2014

Selon la Banque mondiale, l’exclusion bancaire affecte 2,5 milliards d’habitants. La littérature économique sur le sujet traite essentiellement des caractéristiques des exclus (âge, sexe, éducation, etc.) mais détaille peu les spécificités du système bancaire qui pourraient être source d’exclusion. Dans cet article, nous nous proposons d’étudier l’exclusion bancaire en France, trente ans après l’instauration du droit au compte, en analysant les modèles économiques des principales banques. Nous montrons que ces modèles restent sélectifs et induisent l’exclusion des agents faiblement autonomes et/ou budgétairement limités, soit près de 10 % des ménages français. Classification JEL : G21, G28.
Company Organisation under Current Globalisation
Authors: Dima Ioan Constantin
Published: October 2014

Under the current globalisation conditions, the existence and development of any industrial company depends on the type of formal and informal organisation that it adopts. This chapter analyses how the industrial companies are organised under the current global conditions. The structural organisation of any industrial company depends on a number of endogenous and exogenous factors, which leads to the existence of several forms of organisational structure also characterised by certain forms of communication. Under the conditions of current globalisation (industrial company's internal), the informal organisation is closely related to the formal organisation. The chapter concludes with the discussion of the advantages of the harmonisation of the formal structure with the informal structure within the industrial companies.
Online Focus Groups
Authors: Parylo Oksana
Published: October 2014

The overall aim of this chapter is to provide a better understanding of how a specific technique of online research methodology, online focus groups, has been theoretically conceptualized and practically utilized in order to examine its advantages and disadvantages to improve future applications of this technique in qualitative and mixed methods research. The chapter offers an overview of qualitative and mixed methods empirical research using online focus groups in different disciplines and outlines the strengths and weaknesses of this data collection technique. In addition, based on the review of empirical and theoretical research, the current and emerging practices in and characteristics of using online focus groups for data collection are outlined and used to suggest future trends in using this data collection technique in qualitative and mixed methods research.
Tweet Portraiture
Authors: Hai-Jew Shalin
Published: October 2014

A lifetime collection of microblogging messages captured from a microblogging account may be extracted from Twitter using NCapture (an add-on to Chrome and Internet Explorer); these short messages may be analyzed through NVivo and other data analysis and visualization software tools in order to highlight compressed-time gists (essences) of Twitter accounts for rapid assessment. This chapter provides an overview of how this work may be done and how the resulting word clouds, word trees, and tree maps may be analyzed for latent insights. This research approach may be applied to a range of social media platforms using the same software tools here (or using others that are publicly available). This chapter concludes with ideas for how to extend these methods.
Customer Satisfaction in the Context of Online Gaming Service
Authors: Wu Jiming
Published: October 2014

Prior research has devoted considerable attention to consumer hedonic experience and customer satisfaction in retailing and e-commerce settings. However, very little effort has been made to investigate the relationship between hedonic experience and customer satisfaction in the context of information system use. To fill this gap, this study investigates the effect of hedonic experience on game player satisfaction using an adapted technology acceptance model. By doing so, this article addresses the core research question: What drives online game player satisfaction? In support of the model and most of the hypotheses, the empirical results not only identify key antecedents of enjoyment and perceived usefulness, but also confirm the significant role of the two constructs in predicting player satisfaction. This study thus helps both information systems and marketing researchers attain a better understanding of customer satisfaction, expand their baseline knowledge of hedonic experience constructs, and conduct more fruitful and illuminating future research on e-commerce service.
Understanding the Lived Experience of People with Multiple Sclerosis and Dysexecutive Syndrome
Authors: Preston Jenny , Ballinger Claire , Gallagher Helen
Published: October 2014

Introduction:

While evidence suggests that people with multiple sclerosis experience executive function impairment, there is a lack of understanding as to what this means for people within their occupational lives. This study attempted to explore the meanings constructed by individual participants who live with multiple sclerosis and dysexecutive syndrome on a daily basis.

Method:

Ten community-dwelling adults, diagnosed with clinically definite/probable multiple sclerosis and having performed within the ‘Impaired’ category of the Behavioural Assessment of Dysexecutive Syndrome, were invited to participate in semi-structured interviews. The data were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Findings:

The reported changes in the occupational lives of the participants contributed to significant alterations in the roles they inhabited. There was a substantial cost to personal identity as the participants withdrew from former roles or perceived themselves to be failing within their existing roles, leading to a loss of self-worth and self-esteem.

Conclusion:

It is evident from the findings of this study that the actual cognitive deficits did not represent the main issue for people within their everyday lives; rather, the putative consequences of executive dysfunction were of much greater concern for them.
Whose Occupational Balance is it Anyway? The Challenge of Neoliberal Capitalism and Work–Life Imbalance
Authors: Clouston Teena J
Published: October 2014

Introduction:

Occupational therapists/scientists maintain that achieving occupational balance through participation in ‘doing’ and ‘being’ occupations enhances personal and social wellbeing. However, the influence of paid work on occupational balance is not well researched. The purpose of this study was to explore the influence of workplace cultures on the lived experience of occupational balance for occupational therapists.

Method:

Two representative workplaces were accessed: one health and one social services setting, both in Wales. Twenty-nine occupational therapists took part, 18 from healthcare and 11 from social services. The study was qualitative in design, using in-depth interviews and interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Findings:

The study identified a potent link between neoliberal capitalism and occupational imbalance for occupational therapists as a consequence of the pressures of paid work on the rest of life, the social hegemony of paid work, and a sense of individual responsibility for both performance in paid work and success or failure in personal occupational balance.

Conclusion:

Occupational therapists can live unbalanced lives as a consequence of the pressures of the neoliberal workplace on ‘doing’ and ‘being’ activities outside of paid work. Individuals can experience a sense of personal responsibility about success or failure in work–life balance that can affect their achievement of wellbeing through occupational balance.
Interprofessional Evidence-Based Clinical Scholar Program: Learning to Work Together
Authors: Moyers Penelope A. , Finch Guthrie Patricia L. , Swan Alice R. , Sathe Laurie Anderson
Published: October 2014

St. Catherine University and North Memorial Medical Center conducted an Interprofessional Clinical Scholar Program (ICSP) involving five teams of staff, students, and faculty. The aim of the case study was to determine how the interprofessional teams implemented evidence-based projects. We triangulated data from interviews, field notes, and surveys to produce themes: learning to value interprofessional teams, working as a team, and being evidence-based practitioners. We found significant differences pre- and post-ICSP on the Attitudes Toward Interprofessional Teamwork and Education scale, t(14) = −5.48, p < .005, and the Terminology subscale of the Evidence-Based Practice Profile, t(15) = −4.04, p = .001. We found no change in scores on the Evidence-Based Practice Belief Scale, t(14) = −1.49, p = .156. The study supported predicted patterns of benefits from ICSP. Not all participants benefited because of variability in attendance.
Times of Crisis
Authors: Serres Michel
Published: October 2014

For Michel Serres, economic crises are earthquakes caused by societal tectonic plates. The current crisis erupted because of the widening discrepancy between major social changes and institutions that have remained the same since WWII.

Serres, one of the first to bring nature into the political, writes, "To destroy, kill, exploit is worthless. In the long run, it means destroying ourselves." At a time when the world population has grown so much that it is exhausting natural resources and the environment, we need to rethink cultural, social, and political dynamics. Serres argues that geopolitics and economics will no longer be a two-player game, between West and East, for example, but a three-player one, in which is Earth will be the third partner.

This book is one of hope as it calls for a new world and extols the importance of science for our future and political institutions. Here, Serres demonstrates an optimistic outlook in a clear and luminous language that offers new paths for reflection and, ultimately, a better life for Earth and its inhabitants.
Ice crystal concentrations in wave clouds: dependencies on temperature, D>0.5 μm aerosol particle concentration and duration of cloud processing
Authors: Peng L. , Snider J. R. , Wang Z.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Model equations used to either diagnose or prognose the concentration of heterogeneously nucleated ice crystals depend on combinations of cloud temperature, aerosol properties, and elapsed time of supersaturated-vapor or supercooled-liquid conditions. The validity of these equations is questioned. For example, there is concern that practical limitations on aerosol particle time-of-exposure to supercooled-liquid conditions, within ice nucleus counters, can bias model equations that have been constrained by ice nuclei (IN) measurements. In response to this concern, this work analyzes airborne measurements of crystals made within the downwind glaciated portions of middle-tropospheric wave clouds. A streamline model is used to connect a measurement of aerosol concentration, made upwind of a cloud, to a downwind ice crystal (IC) concentration. Four parameters were derived for 80 streamlines: (1) minimum cloud temperature along the streamline, (2) aerosol particle concentration (diameter, D>0.5 μm) measured within ascending air, upwind of the cloud, (3) IC concentration measured in descending air downwind, and (4) the duration of water-saturated conditions along the streamline. The latter are between 38 to 507 s and the minimum temperatures are between −34 to −14 °C. Values of minimum temperature, D>0.5 μm aerosol concentration and IC concentration were fitted using the equation developed for IN by DeMott et al. (2010; D10). Overall, there is reasonable agreement among measured IC concentrations, IN concentrations derived using D10's fit equation, and IC concentrations derived by fitting the wave cloud measurements with the equation developed by D10.
Technical Note: Hyperspectral lidar time series of pine canopy physiological parameters
Authors: Hakala T. , Nevalainen O. , Kaasalainen S. , Mäkipää R.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. We present an empirical application of hyperspectral lidar for monitoring the seasonal and spatial changes in pine chlorophyll content and upscaling the accurate leaf-level chlorophyll measurements into branch and tree level. The results show the capability of the new instrument for monitoring the changes in the shape and physiology of tree canopy: the spectral indices retrieved from the hyperspectral point cloud agree with laboratory measurements of the chlorophyll content. The approach opens new prospects for replacing destructive and labor-intensive manual sampling with remote observations of tree physiology.
Do Himalayan treelines respond to recent climate change? An evaluation of sensitivity indicators
Authors: Schickhoff U. , Bobrowski M. , Böhner J. , Bürzle B. , Chaudhary R. P. , Gerlitz L. , Heyken H. , Lange J. , Müller M. , Scholten T. , Schwab N. , Wedegärtner R.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Climate warming is expected to induce treelines to advance to higher elevations. Empirical studies in diverse mountain ranges, however, give evidence of both advancing alpine treelines as well as rather insignificant responses. The inconsistency of findings suggests distinct differences in the sensitivity of global treelines to recent climate change. It is still unclear where Himalayan treeline ecotones are located along the response gradient from rapid dynamics to apparently complete inertia. This paper reviews the current state of knowledge regarding sensitivity and response of Himalayan treelines to climate warming, based on extensive field observations, published results in the widely scattered literature, and novel data from ongoing research of the present authors. Several sensitivity indicators such as treeline type, treeline form, seed-based regeneration, and growth patterns are evaluated. Since most Himalayan treelines are anthropogenically depressed, observed advances are largely the result of land use change. Near-natural treelines are usually krummholz treelines which are relatively unresponsive. Nevertheless, intense recruitment of treeline trees suggests a great potential for future treeline advance. Competitive abilities of seedlings within krummholz thickets and dwarf scrub heaths will be a major source of variation in treeline dynamics. Tree growth-climate relationships show mature treeline trees to be responsive to temperature change, in particular in winter and pre-monsoon seasons. High pre-monsoon temperature trends will most likely drive tree growth performance in W and central Himalaya. Ecological niche modelling suggests that bioclimatic conditions for a range expansion of treeline trees will be created during coming decades.