bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-Esteem and Mathematics Achievement of Elementary Qatari Students
Authors: Alkhateeb Haitham M.
Published: April 2014

Mathematics achievement and self-esteem of 238 Qatari elementary students (128 girls, 110 boys) was assessed. In Grades 1 to 5, self-esteem was M = 14.3 ( SD = 2.7) and mathematics achievement was M = 68.1 ( SD = 21.9). Results indicated boys had higher self-esteem. Mathematics achievement and sex explained seven percent of the variance in self-esteem.
Factor Structure of Quality of Life in Adolescents
Authors: Oleś Maria
Published: April 2014

The goal was to present the factor structure of subjective quality of life in adolescents, investigated by means of four questionnaires: the Youth Quality of Life-Research Version (YQOL–R), the Quality of Life Profile–Adolescent Version (QOLP–AV), the KIDSCREEN-52 Questionnaire, and the Quality of Life Questionnaire for Children and Adolescents (QLQ–CA). Two exploratory factor analyses conducted on the results obtained from two samples of adolescents: healthy, N=252 (144 girls, 108 boys), and chronically ill, suffering from several illnesses, N=189 (118 girls, 71 boys). Both factor analyses revealed four-factor solutions, each explaining about 60% of the total variance. The factor structure for the healthy group approximately reproduced the structures of the four questionnaires: Developmental quality of life (23%), Health and Well-being (16%), Relational quality of life (14%), and Ego strength (8%). The factor structure for the chronically ill group was similar for three factors: Developmental quality of life (22%), Harmony between the self and the environment (14%), and Coping and Support (12%), but different for another one: Health-related quality of life (10%). The discussion focuses on the specific nature of four aspects of quality of life observed in the healthy sample and their similarities to and differences from the factors in the chronic patients' sample.
Factor Analysis of the Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale in Korean Learners of English as a Foreign Language
Authors: Park Gi-Pyo
Published: April 2014

This study examined the latent constructs of the Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (FLCAS) using two different groups of Korean English as a foreign language (EFL) university students. Maximum likelihood exploratory factor analysis with direct oblimin rotation was performed among the first group of 217 participants and produced two meaningful latent components in the FLCAS. The two components of the FLCAS were closely examined among the second group of 244 participants to find the extent to which the two components of the FLCAS fit the data. The model fit indexes showed that the two-factor model in general adequately fit the data. Findings of this study were discussed with the focus on the two components of the FLCAS, followed by future study areas to be undertaken to shed further light on the role of foreign language anxiety in L2 acquisition.
Pain Sensitivity Subgroups in Individuals With Spine Pain: Potential Relevance to Short-Term Clinical Outcome
Authors: Coronado Rogelio A. , Bialosky Joel E. , Robinson Michael E. , George Steven Z.
Published: April 2014

Background

Cluster analysis can be used to identify individuals similar in profile based on response to multiple pain sensitivity measures. There are limited investigations into how empirically derived pain sensitivity subgroups influence clinical outcomes for individuals with spine pain.

Objective

The purposes of this study were: (1) to investigate empirically derived subgroups based on pressure and thermal pain sensitivity in individuals with spine pain and (2) to examine subgroup influence on 2-week clinical pain intensity and disability outcomes.

Design

A secondary analysis of data from 2 randomized trials was conducted.

Methods

Baseline and 2-week outcome data from 157 participants with low back pain (n=110) and neck pain (n=47) were examined. Participants completed demographic, psychological, and clinical information and were assessed using pain sensitivity protocols, including pressure (suprathreshold pressure pain) and thermal pain sensitivity (thermal heat threshold and tolerance, suprathreshold heat pain, temporal summation). A hierarchical agglomerative cluster analysis was used to create subgroups based on pain sensitivity responses. Differences in data for baseline variables, clinical pain intensity, and disability were examined.

Results

Three pain sensitivity cluster groups were derived: low pain sensitivity, high thermal static sensitivity, and high pressure and thermal dynamic sensitivity. There were differences in the proportion of individuals meeting a 30% change in pain intensity, where fewer individuals within the high pressure and thermal dynamic sensitivity group (adjusted odds ratio=0.3; 95% confidence interval=0.1, 0.8) achieved successful outcomes.

Limitations

Only 2-week outcomes are reported.

Conclusions

Distinct pain sensitivity cluster groups for individuals with spine pain were identified, with the high pressure and thermal dynamic sensitivity group showing worse clinical outcome for pain intensity. Future studies should aim to confirm these findings.
A case of imported Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus infection and public health response, Greece, April 2014
Authors: Tsiodras S , Baka A , Mentis A , Iliopoulos D , Dedoukou X , Papamavrou G , Karadima S , Emmanouil M , Kossyvakis A , Spanakis N , Pavli A , Maltezou H , Karageorgou A , Spala G , Pitiriga V , Kosmas E , Tsiagklis S , Gkatzias S , Koulouris N G , Koutsoukou A , Bakakos P , Markozanhs E , Dionellis G , Pontikis K , Rovina N , Kyriakopoulou M , Efstathiou P , Papadimitriou T , Kremastinou J , Tsakris A , Saroglou G
Published: April 2014

On 18 April 2014, a case of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infection was laboratory confirmed in Athens, Greece in a patient returning from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Main symptoms upon initial presentation were protracted fever and diarrhoea, during hospitalisation he developed bilateral pneumonia and his condition worsened. During 14 days prior to onset of illness, he had extensive contact with the healthcare environment in Jeddah. Contact tracing revealed 73 contacts, no secondary cases had occurred by 22 April.
Thermodynamic modeling of the In–Pt–Sb system
Authors: Guo Cuiping , Li Changrong , Shang Shunli , Du Zhenmin
Published: April 2014

The In–Pt–Sb system is modeled using the CALPHAD technique. The solution phases (liquid, fcc(Pt), rhom(Sb) and tetra(In)) are described as substitutional solution. The enthalpies of formation of the intermetallic compounds, Pt7Sb, Pt3Sb, Pt3Sb2, PtSb, PtSb2are calculated using first-principles calculations. In the In–Pt–Sb system, the compounds In3Pt2, In2Pt, In7Pt3in the In–Pt binary system and the compounds PtSb2and PtSb in the Pt–Sb binary system are treated as line compounds (In,Sb)mPtnaccording to experimental solid solubility of the third component. The compound In5Pt6is treated as (In,Pt,Sb)5(In,Pt)6based on its thermodynamic model in the In–Pt system and experimental solid solubility of Sb in the In–Pt–Sb system. The thermodynamic model of compound InPt3keeps the order–disorder transition model with fcc(Pt) solid solution which was used in the In–Pt binary system, and is treated as (In,Pt,Sb)0.25(In,Pt,Sb)0.75. Other compounds InPt, In9Pt13, αIn2Pt3, βIn2Pt3, InPt2and InSb in the In–Pt–Sb system keep the same thermodynamic models as those in binary systems. Based on the published experimental isothermal sections, vertical sections and the liquidus surface projection, the In–Pt–Sb system is modeled, and a set of self-consistent thermodynamic parameters is obtained.
Peripheral nerve fibromyxoid sarcoma
Authors: Alter Raanan Y. , Wamsley Christina C. , Mullen John T. , Haile Winta Z. , Goldsmith Jeffrey D. , Kasper Ekkehard M.
Published: April 2014

Low-grade fibromyxoid sarcoma (LGFMS) is a rare soft-tissue neoplasm with metastatic potential and needs to be recognized as such, because it can be mistaken for other types of sarcoma due to its unremarkable appearance. This 49-year-old man presented with an approximately 5-cm mass on the anteromedial aspect of his left thigh that slowly increased over 10 years. Clinical symptoms were limited to local discomfort and intermittent distal numbness. Due to the location, imaging findings, and lack of serious symptoms, the initial differential diagnosis favored a schwannoma. An initial biopsy revealed histopathological findings consistent with a perineurioma, although with atypical features. The patient elected to have the mass excised, and the tumor, which arose from a branch of the saphenous nerve, could be separated well from the surrounding soft tissue. Histopathological investigation of the mass displayed characteristic features of a fibromyxoid sarcoma, which was confirmed by subsequent fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis. Due to concerns about infiltration beyond the margins, radical reexcision was advocated and performed, resulting in definite clear surgical margins. At follow-up, the patient had regained full strength with no residual neurological symptoms or any new deficits. He has since been healthy and disease free for a total of 4 years in follow-up. This case documents, to the authors' knowledge, the first observation of an LGFMS associated with a peripheral nerve. It also supports the use of fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis as an essential diagnostic method in establishing the diagnosis of LGFMS.
How can we teach them about neurotrauma prevention? Prospective and randomized “Pense Bem—Caxias do Sul” study with multiple interventions in preteens and adolescents
Authors: Falavigna Asdrubal , Medeiros Gregory Saraiva , Canabarro Carolina Travi , Barazzetti Daniel Ongaratto , Marcon Grasiela , Carneiro Monteiro Gabriela Massaro , Bossardi Júlia Bertholdo , da Silva Pedro Guarise , Teles Alisson Roberto , Velho Maíra Cristina , Ferrari Priscila
Published: April 2014

Object

A previous study published by the authors showed that a single intervention could not change the baseline attitudes toward neurotrauma prevention. The present study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of multiple interventions in modifying knowledge and attitudes for the prevention of neurotrauma in Brazilian preteens and adolescents.

Methods

In a randomized controlled trial, fifth-year primary school (PS) and second-year high school (HS) students were divided into a control and 2 intervention (single/multiple) groups. The study was conducted in the following 8 stages: T1, questionnaire to measure baseline characteristics; T2, lecture on trauma prevention; T3, reapplying the questionnaire used in T1; T4, Traffic Department intervention; T5, a play about trauma and its consequences; T6, Fire Department intervention; T7, Emergency Medical Service intervention; and T8, reapplying the questionnaire used in T1 and T3. Positive answers were considered those affirming the use of safety devices “always or sometimes” and negative as “never” using safety devices.

Results

The sample consisted of 535 students. Regarding attitudes, students in all groups at any stage of measurement showed protective behavior more than 95% of the time about seat belt use. There were only differences between attitudes in PS and HS students on T8 assessment concerning the use of safety equipment on bikes in the multiple-intervention group and concerning the use of safety equipment on skateboards and rollerblades in single- and multiple-intervention groups. These differences were caused mainly by the reduction in positive answers by the HS group, rather than by the increase in positive or protective answers by the PS group. However, there was no difference when the control and intervention groups were compared, independent of the attitudes or the student groups studied. The most important reason for not using protective devices was the belief that they would not get hurt.

Conclusions

Multiple and different types of educational interventions, such as lectures, scenes from plays about trauma and its consequences, traffic and fire department intervention, and medical emergency intervention directed to preteens and adolescents from public and private schools did not modify most students' attitudes toward injury prevention. Clinical trial registration no: U1111–1121–0192 (National System of Ethics and Research in Brazil).
Various Methods of Reconstruction of Axillary Burn Contracture
Authors: Sarker Bidhan , Lenin Lutfar Kader , Hossain Md Zakir
Published: April 2014

Post burn contracture is a burn sequel, which was not properly treated in initial burn management. Deep partial and full thickness burn of axillary region can result in scar contracture which limits shoulder abduction and extension. The axillary contracture has functional morbidity along with aesthetic disfigurement. Difficulties in rehabilitation of shoulder abduction during the initial period and the contractile evolution of the scar contribute to this problem. The goal of the surgical correction of axillary scar contractures is to provide a maximum release with minimum or no local anatomic distortion. 42 patients with post burn contracture of the axillas were operated in the Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery Unit, Dhaka Medical College Hospital and in National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedic Rehabilitation (NITOR), Dhaka in the period between November 2007 & December 2011. Among them 26(61.9%) were males and 16(38.1%) were females. Age ranged from 6 to 38 years with a mean age 14.7 years. Unilateral axilla were involved in 34 patients(81%) and bilateral axilla was involved in 8 patients(19%). 18 cases (42.8%) had contracture of anterior axillary fold, 12 cases (28.5%) cases had contracture of posterior axillary fold, 8 cases (19%) had contracture of both folds and 4 cases (9.5%) had contracture involving axillary dome. Pre operative X-ray of shoulder joints of affected axilla revealed normal joint spaces. The operative procedure was chosen according to the pattern of scar and state of surrounding skin. Surgical procedures included release of post burn axillary contracture by recontructive procedures single Z plasties were done in 2 cases(4.7%), multiple Z plasties were done in 12 cases(28.6%), five flap plasty was done in 1 case (2.4%), local fascio cuteneous flaps were done in 25 cases(59.5%), parascapular flap was done in 1case (2.4%) and split thickness skin grafting was done in 1 case (2.4%). Axilla was immobilized with plaster cast for two weeks. The rate of complication was 9.5%. All of them were minor. Functional improvement was quite satisfactory, except for one case of skin grafting which had re-contracture. Choice of surgical procedure for reconstruction of post burn axillary contracture can be made according to the pattern of scar contracture and the state of surrounding skin. The choice of a flap should have priority to skin graft because of the superior functional and cosmetic results of flaps. Long term splinting and physical therapy are mandatory to prevent re contracture. Proper pre-operative planning, appropriate surgical method, post operative immobilization, physiotherapy and follow up can make good outcome of post burn axillary contracture reconstruction. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bdjps.v4i1.18686 Bangladesh Journal of Plastic Surgery January 2013, 4(1): 16-19
Osteoplastic thumb reconstruction in a case of neglected hand burn
Authors: Rahman Hasib , Azad Md Abul Kalam , Hassan Shamim , Khan Md Hedayet Ali , Rouf Rushda Sarmin Binte
Published: April 2014

In this article we report a case of neglected hand burn with total loss of thumb with additional first web space and wrist contracture of the nondominant hand of a young female. Osteoplastic technique was applied for thumb reconstruction with additional fillet flap and posterior interosseous flap for first web space and thenar area. In this era of microsurgical reconstruction this simple and basic technique can still be useful in selected cases. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bdjps.v4i1.18691 Bangladesh Journal of Plastic Surgery January 2013, 4(1): 32-35
Quantitative Study of Porosity and Pore Features in Moldavites by Means of X-ray Micro-CT
Authors: Pratesi Giovanni , Caporali Stefano , Loglio Francesca , Giuli Gabriele , Dziková Lenka , Skála Roman
Published: April 2014

X-ray micro-computer aided tomography (μ-CT), together with optical microscopy and imaging, have been applied to the study of six moldavite samples. These techniques enabled a complete characterization to be made of the textural features of both Muong Nong-type and common splashform moldavites. A detailed study of the size and distribution of pores or bubbles confirmed the marked variability in pore size among the samples, as well as within each sample, and indicated in the Muong Nong-type moldavites the presence of at least two deformation stages which occurred before and after pore formation.
In Vitro Anti-Osteoporosis Properties of Diverse Korean Drynariae rhizoma Phenolic Extracts
Authors: Kang Suk-Nam , Lee Jong , Park Joung-Hyun , Cho Jae-Hyeon , Park Jae-Hong , Cho Kwang-Keun , Lee Ok-Hwan , Kim Il-Suk
Published: April 2014

Drynariae rhizoma has been used to prevent bone loss that occurs with increasing age. However, the chemical compounds in extracts that act on bone metabolism in herbal medicine are poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate and compare the extraction efficacy of polyphenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, and in vitro anti-osteoporosis properties of water extract (DR-DW) and ethanol extract (DR-EtOH) from D. rhizoma. Total phenolics and flavonoids were better extracted with 70% EtOH, and this extraction method also resulted in higher antioxidant activity and in vitro anti-osteoporosis properties in these extracts. In particular, the contents of phloroglucinol, protocatechuic acid ethyl ester, 2-amino-3,4-dimethyl-benzoic acid, 3-(3,5-dimethyl-pyrazol-1-yl)-benzoic acid, chlorogenic acid, syringic acid, trans-ferulic acid, (−)-epigallocatechin, epigallocatechin gallate, quercetin dehydrate, luteolin and emodin in DR-EtOH were higher than those in DR-DW. These results indicated that DR-EtOH could be a good source of natural herbs with anti-osteoporosis properties.
Integrated Groundwater Resources Management Using the DPSIR Approach in a GIS Environment Context: A Case Study from the Gallikos River Basin, North Greece
Authors: Mattas Christos , Voudouris Konstantinos , Panagopoulos Andreas
Published: April 2014

The Gallikos River basin is located in the northern part of Greece, and the coastal section is part of a deltaic system. The basin has been influenced by anthropogenic activities during the last decades, leading to continuous water resource degradation. The holistic approach of the Driver-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) framework was applied in order to investigate the main causes and origins of pressures and to optimize the measures for sustainable management of water resources. The major driving forces that affect the Gallikos River basin are urbanization, intensive agriculture, industry and the regional development strategy. The main pressures on water resources are the overexploitation of aquifers, water quality degradation, and decrease of river discharge. Recommended responses were based on the Water Framework Directive (WFD) 2000/60/EC, and sum up to rationalization of water resources, land use management and appropriate utilization of waste, especially so effluent. The application of the DPSIR analysis in this paper links the socioeconomic drivers to the water resource pressures, the responses based on the WFD and the national legislation and is as a useful tool for land-use planning and decision making in the area of water protection.
Un bâtiment de l’Antiquité tardive dans les gorges de l’Hérault à Aniane
Authors: Durand Geneviève
Published: April 2014

Entre Saint-Guilhem et le Pont du Diable, l’Hérault s’enfonce dans des gorges profondes et sauvages difficiles d’accès dominées au nord et à l’est par le Plateau des Brousses culminant à 280m d’altitude (Fig. 1). Bâti sur une plate forme naturelle surplombant les gorges d’une vingtaine de mètres à l’ouest, au pied d’une colline dont le versant oriental est aujourd’hui occupé par de nombreux cônes d’éboulis calcaires, le bâtiment du Bois des Brousses a été découvert en 1992 à la suite d’une prospection menée à partir de sources archivistiques (Durand, 1992). Le dépouillement systématique des fonds notariaux d’Aniane pour une recherche sur l’abbaye d’Aniane, nous a permis de mettre en relation un bâtiment utilisé au début du XVIIe siècle comme bergerie, en bordure de l’Hérault, et un dossier de textes carolingiens se rapportant au château de Montcalmès et à l’église Saint-Hilaire.
Une sépulture de pestiférés du Haut Moyen Âge à Vienne (Isère)
Authors: Signoli Michel , Le Bot-Helly Anne , Bizot Bruno , Rigeade Catherine
Published: April 2014

Une sépulture multiple a été découverte dans les niveaux d’abandon d’un temple d’époque romaine, au cours d’une opération de sauvetage programmée qui fut réalisée en 1984 et 1985, place Camille Jouffray, à Vienne (Isère) sous la direction de Anne Le Bot-Helly. Les individus étaient inhumés tête-bêche, dans une même fosse, l’absence de sédiment interstitiel témoignant d’une simultanéité des dépôts. La présence d’une monnaie datée du Ve siècle après J.-C. et deux datations au 14C permirent de situer chronologiquement cette sépulture aux alentours des VIIe-IXe siècles. L’approche de la gestion funéraire menée à partir des données de terrain, complétée par l’étude anthropologique des squelettes et par une analyse en biologie moléculaire, ont permis d’attribuer cet ensemble à une crise d’origine épidémique.
Découverte et résultats d’analyse de statuaire médiévale et moderne de la cathédrale de Rodez (Aveyron).
Authors: Barrau-Agudo Caroline de , Fau Laurent
Published: April 2014

During recent works of electrification in the nave of the Gothic cathedral of Rodez (1277-by 1580) and the installation of a duct under the floor of a chapel, the discovery of sculptured fragments buried under the pavement was reported. A first archaeological rescue operation conducted in 1998 allowed the discovery of 160 such fragments. In April 2006, a more ambitious programmed excavation has in turn resulted in the extraction of more than 250 fragments. It was followed by an inventory work and an archaeological, historical, stylistic and iconographic study the results of which are presented here.
L’histoire du climat par ses extrêmes. Sources géohistoriques et inondations dans les Pyrénées depuis le Petit Age Glaciaire
Authors: Antoine Jean-Marc
Published: April 2014

On tente dans cet article de faire le point sur la pertinence à utiliser les événements hydrométéorologiques et géomorphologiques extrêmes, et plus particulièrement les inondations et les crues torrentielles, comme marqueurs des dynamiques climatiques. Après un état des lieux scientifique de cette problématique, est proposé un panorama des sources historiques les plus rentables pour reconstituer l’histoire des inondations. On montre ensuite, à partir de l’exemple pyrénéen, que la dynamique des inondations peut avoir une signification climatique, en particulier dans le contexte du Petit Age Glaciaire. Enfin, sont également évoqués les problèmes méthodologiques qui restent en suspens.
Le Petit Age Glaciaire dans les cernes de croissance des arbres des Alpes françaises. Approche dendrochronologique
Authors: Denelle Nicole , Guibal Frédéric , Thomas André , Corona Christophe , Edouard Jean-Louis
Published: April 2014

La signature dendrochronologique du Petit Age Glaciaire (1560-1850) est étudiée, dans les Alpes françaises, au moyen de 17 longues chronologies de mélèzes et de pins cembro de haute altitude, réparties depuis la Maurienne au nord jusqu’au Mercantour, au sud. L’étude des matrices de corrélation et des téléconnexions inter-sites révèle des réactions différentes des deux espèces à l’égard de la péjoration climatique du PAG . L’homogénéisation spatiale du signal dendrochronologique observée pour le mélèze semble liée à une réduction des contrastes thermiques locaux. Pour le pin cembro, des conditions hydriques moins stressantes pourraient expliquer la très forte hétérogénéité des signaux et l’absence de téléconnexion significative. A l’échelle régionale, l’agrégation des populations montre l’absence de gradient marqué entre le bloc Maurienne-Briançonnais et le Mercantour. A l’échelle alpine, les variations des chronologies moyennes de mélèzes sont concordantes avec les fluctuations glaciaires, les données historiques et les reconstructions climatiques réalisées dans les Alpes suisses.
«Catastrophe naturelle» et déclin économique de Villemagne-l’Argentière (bassin de l’Orb, Hérault) depuis la fin du Moyen Âge
Authors: Journot Florence
Published: April 2014

Villemagne-l’Argentière, village des montagnes du Nord-Biterrois, a connu vers le milieu du XIVe siècle un bouleversement dû au changement du cours de la Mare, rivière au régime turbulent, affluent de l’Orb, et qui vint s’installer définitivement sur le flanc Est de l’agglomération. Cet événement est identifié à partir d’une série de chartes du XVe siècle, rédigée en raison des conflits provoqués par l’exploitation du lit de la rivière ainsi rendu disponible aux cultures, entre la communauté villageoise et l’abbé seigneur du lieu. L’examen des compoix des XVIIe et XVIIIe siècles et des cadastres permet de localiser le paléochenal de la Mare et de situer l’emplacement du pont qui le franchissait, jalon d’un axe nord-sud qui unissait Haut et Bas-Languedoc. Cette catastrophe climatique en a provoqué l’abandon et a contribué au déclin de ce bourg abbatial qui, jusqu’au XIVe siècle, connut une certaine prospérité en raison des richesses minières avoisinantes et de ses foires.
Évolution de la plaine alluviale de la Mosson (Hérault) durant l’holocène : approche historique et géomorphologique
Authors: Jorda Christophe , Blanchemanche Philippe , Ferdinand Laurie
Published: April 2014

The Little Ice Age had very different impacts on the functioning of coastal rivers in Languedoc. A tributary of the Lez, the Mosson, might, through the analysis of its textual and sedimentary archives, establish a link between the functioning of the rivers of eastern and western Languedoc. The sedimentary analysis is based on a series of three core drillings realized in the alluvial plain and the interpretation of two natural stratigraphies visible on the banks of the Mosson. The results were then confronted with the mentions of extreme events recorded in the municipal deliberations of nine communes ran through by the Mosson. It was possible to establish a relation between two sedimentary and climatic episodes, in particular thanks to carbon-14 datings. A comparison with the studies led on other coastal rivers also allowed a reconstruction of the important phases of the hydrological activity of the Mosson.
Les déterminants du taux de marge en France et quelques autres grands pays industrialisés : analyse empirique sur la période 1970-2000
Authors: Baghli Mustapha , Cette Gilbert , Sylvain Arnaud
Published: April 2014

Determinants of Profit Ratio in France and Other Major Industrialised Countries : Empirical Analysis Over the Period from 1970 to 2000.

This study explores the factors driving the observed movements in the profit ratio in several industrialised countries. It suggests the following conclusions : - in France, the profit ratio returned in the nineties to the level recorded in the beginning of the seventies (after stripping out the impact of self-employment) ; - in France, Germany and Japan, the profit ratio seems driven in the medium to long term by the real interest rate, the relative price of energy and the capacity utilisation rate ; - in France, the change in the unemployment rate affects the profit ratio in the short term. This may confirm the impact on bargaining power of the disequilibrium in the labour market.
Dynamique de l’innovation organisationnelle lors de la réduction du temps de travail : évidences sur la France des années quatre-vingt-dix
Authors: Askenazy Philippe
Published: April 2014

ShorterWorking Hours And Organisational Innovation Dynamics : Evidence from France During the Nineties.

This article uses a survey of French establistment with 20 or more employees to study the connections between shorter working hours and organisational changes. In the nineties, shorter working hours seemed part of an effort to adapt the work organisation to the technological environment, initially by investing in information and communication technologies and subsequently by reducing working hours and extending organisational innovation through multitasking and just-in-time techniques.
Politique énergétique : aspects stratégiques de la question des approvisionnements
Authors: Villeneuve Bertrand , Creti Anna
Published: April 2014

Nous traitons des fondements de la fiscalité de l’énergie dans une perspective d’optimisation des approvisionnements auprès de fournisseurs étrangers à la Communauté européenne. Notre modèle permet de distinguer et d’évaluer trois termes formant la taxe optimale : le terme strictement budgétaire, le terme environnemental et le terme stratégique. Les valeurs dépendent de données technologiques (production) et des valeurs des usages (consommation), mais également du rapport de force entre la Communauté et ses fournisseurs. Nous pouvons, à partir des discussions fondées sur les scénarios proposés, suggérer des améliorations de la politique énergétique.
Un modèle multifactoriel des spreads de crédit : estimation sur panels complets et incomplets
Authors: Lardic Sandrine , Gauthier Claire
Published: April 2014

Le risque de crédit est une source de risque importante pour la plupart des banques. Bien qu’il soit inhérent à leur activité d’intermédiation financière et identifié depuis longtemps, les méthodes d’analyse et d’évaluation du risque de crédit ne se sont développées que récemment. Cela est probablement dû à la complexité et au caractère imprévisible du défaut. Le modèle que nous présentons dans cette étude a pour objectif d’aider les gérants à prendre leurs décisions de portefeuille en leur fournissant un outil d’analyse et de prévision des spreads de crédit.
L’influence de la PPE sur l’activité des femmes en France : une estimation à partir du modèle Ines
Authors: Pucci Muriel , Le Minez Sylvie , Fugazza Marco
Published: April 2014

L’objet de cet article est d’évaluer, grâce à l’estimation d’un modèle structurel, la sensibilité de l’offre de travail des femmes en France à la Prime pour l’emploi (PPE). L’offre de travail des femmes est discrète et maximise l’utilité du ménage sous contrainte budgétaire compte tenu de leurs chances de trouver un emploi. Le revenu disponible du ménage pour chaque horaire de travail est évalué à l’aide du modèle de microsimulation Ines, qui impute sur barème les transferts socio-fiscaux de la législation française aux ménages des enquêtes Revenus fiscaux de l’Insee. L’élasticité de l’offre de travail au revenu d’activité est estimé à 0,3 pour les femmes isolées et 0,8 pour les femmes en couple et l’impact de la PPE demeure limité.
L’individualisation de l’impôt sur le revenu : équitable ou pas ?
Authors: Échevin Damien
Published: April 2014

An estimate using a microsimulation model suggests that approximately 46% of married couples in France benefit from a tax gain as a result of marriage and 22% suffer a tax penalty. Influenced by factors such as tax allowances, minimum thresholds and specific deductions, the annual average tax gain per household is 1080, and the penalty is 185. Tax individualisation cancels gains and losses resulting from marriage at a total cost to households of approx. 3.7 billion, or7% of income tax revenue (2002 Finance Act). The tax on earned income is reduced by 286 on average for women. Astudy of the redistributive effects of the reform, taking into account the potential effects of female participation in the labour market, shows that redistribution increases overall after the reform. Vertical fairness increases, while horizontal unfairness remains unchanged. The specific effect on the female labour supply slightly but significantly reduces the redistributive effects of the reform.
Constitution européenne : redistribution du pouvoir des États au Conseil de lUE
Authors: Bobay Frédéric
Published: April 2014

À partir d ’ une méthode de la théorie de jeux , cet article analyse l ’ impact des dispositions de la Constitution européenne sur les capacités d ’ influence des États membres au Conseil de l ’ Union européenne (avec et sans hypothèse d ’ adhésion de la Turquie ). Par rapport aux système de vote précédents , le principal effet de la Constitution est d ’ accroître significativement l ’ influence de l ’ État membre le plus grand (Allemagne ou Turquie ), ainsi que des plus petits (Malte , Luxembourg , Chypre , Estonie , Lettonie , Slovénie …). Cette redistribution du pouvoir trouve sa contrepartie dans les États de taille moyenne (Hongrie , Belgique , Portugal , République tchèque , Grèce , Pays-Bas …). L ’ Espagne et la Pologne enregistrent une perte d ’ influence notable , compte tenu du niveau élevé obtenu par ces pays dans le système de Nice . Concernant la France , l ’ effet de la Constitution par rapport à Nice est neutre à court terme . Dans le cas d ’ une adhésion de la Turquie , cet effet devient significativement négatif à long terme .
Modèles à changement de régime et test de la théorie des anticipations rationnelles de la structure par terme des taux dintérêt en France
Authors: Rautureau Nicolas
Published: April 2014

L'étude empirique de la dynamique du taux d ’ intérêt de long terme , par l ’ intermédiaire de la méthodologie développée par Campbell et Shiller (1987 ), a conduit le plus souvent à observer une sur-réaction du spread observé par rapport à l ’ évolution prédite par la théorie des anticipations rationnelles , en particulier pour les États-Unis . Cependant , ce résultat repose sur une spécification particulière du comportement du taux d ’ intérêt de court terme . Nous poursuivons ici un double objectif . Tout d ’ abord , nous cherchons à savoir si l ’ utilisation des modèles à chaîne de Markov , par la prise en compte d ’ éventuels changements de régime au niveau du processus stochastique suivi par le vecteur autorégressif , permet une meilleure validation de la théorie pour la France . Nous analysons ensuite l ’ importance de l ’ attitude des facteurs macroéconomiques sur le découpage produit par ces modèles . L ’ utilisation d ’ un VAR à chaîne de Markov permet , d ’ une part , d ’ obtenir une meilleure validation statistique de la théorie des anticipations et , d ’ autre part , de souligner l ’ influence du taux de change entre le franc et le deutschemark sur les résultats obtenus
Salaire à la performance : incitation ou sélection
Authors: Lazear Edward P.
Published: April 2014

Le recours accru au salaire variable est généralement associé au souhait de créer des incitations . Toutefois , l ’ explication par la sélection n ’ a jusqu ’ ici pas été suffisamment prise en compte . Il est fréquent que les données corroborent les deux explications , par la sélection et par l ’ incitation , mais les conséquences , tant du point de vue pratique que normatif , sont tout à fait différentes . Les éléments de réalité confirment que le salaire variable est utilisé comme un outil de sélection , ou de tri , notamment au niveau de l ’ encadrement . C ’ est dans le domaine des nouvelles industries que l ’ explication par la sélection revêt toute son importance . Mots-clés : incitation , tri , sélection
Le paradoxe de l'adhésion syndicale : une approche expérimentale en termes de jeu de bien public
Authors: Villeval Marie-Claire , Rullière Jean-Louis , Keser Claudia
Published: April 2014

When collective agreements apply to all unionised and non-unionised employees , what is the rationale behind joining a union ? The paper presents an experiment on a two-stage game . In the first stage , the decision to join a union is modelled as a voluntary contribution to a public good . In the second stage , the unionised employees bargain with the employer over wages that will then be paid to all unionised and non-unionised employees . The experimental evidence reveals that : i ) union membership is higher than predicted by theory , but it declines over time , ii ) the employees ’ bargaining power increases with the size of the union but not as much as predicted .
Filières éducatives, réseaux et réussite professionnelle
Authors: Simonnet Véronique , Margolis David
Published: April 2014

Est-ce que les formations techniques et professionnelles permettent la constitution de réseaux performants contre les aléas de la vie professionnelle ? À partir de l ’ échantillon «jeune » de l ’ enquête «Jeunes et Carrières » de l ’ Insee (1997 ), nous constatons que les sortants d ’ une filière technique ou professionnelle obtiennent plus souvent leur emploi par l ’ intermédiaire de réseaux que les sortants d ’ une filière générale . Ils accèdent aussi plus rapidement à leur premier emploi et obtiennent des salaires plus élevés . Cependant , une fois prise en compte la qualité du réseau , le mode d ’ obtention de l ’ emploi ne conditionne ni la durée d ’ accès à l ’ emploi ni le salaire . Une fois acceptées , les offres émanant des réseaux ne diffèrent pas des offres provenant d ’ autres sources .
Les conjoints des salariés passés à 35 heures travaillent-ils davantage ? Une analyse de l'offre de travail familiale sur données françaises
Authors: Bunel Matthieu
Published: April 2014

This paper analyses the change in the family labour supply following the introduction of the 35-hour working week using an original sample of more than 10,000 couples drawn from the 2000 Labour Force Survey . Two dimensions of the individual labour supply have been analysed in turn when an individual ’ s spouse starts working a shorter week . These dimensions are the hours worked and the decision to join the labour force . The findings show that spouses outside of the labour force are more likely to join it if their spouse starts working a 35-hour week . This means that the introduction of the 35-hour working week may increase the labour force participation rate in France .
Transferts sociaux et gains dactivité des jeunes adultes européens. Une application des modèles multiniveaux
Authors: Ray Jean-Claude
Published: April 2014

This paper describes the links between Young European Adults ’ earnings and the generosity of social transfers , such as family allowance and unemployment benefits . The links are described separately for three age groups and controlled for a number of individual factors , such as gender and educational attainment , as well as national factors , such as per capita GDP and the unemployment rate . We use multilevel models that account for the nesting of lower level statistical units , which are young adults in this case , within groups , which are households and countries here . This is why we use models with three levels . The findings show that family allowance and unemployment benefits do have an impact on young adults ’ earnings . The impact is statistically significant , but limited .
Recherches récentes sur l'adaptation des espèces et des types de plantes cultivées
Authors: Hédin Louis
Published: April 2014

Le présent mémoire comporte deux parties. Dans la première, l'A. indique les objectifs poursuivis et les voeux présentés au cours de la réunion organisée à Rome du 10 au 20 juillet 1961 par la F.A.O. pour la prospection botanique et l'introduction des espèces végétales. L'organisation des échanges de plantes sur le plan international et de zones de prospection méthodique en Argentine et en Asie Mineure a été envisagée.

Dans une seconde partie, l'étude des conditions d'adaptation des espèces végétales à des milieux différents a été examinée. Jusqu'à présent, l'introduction de nouvelles espèces s'est faite de façon très empirique. Pourtant, au cours des dernières années, un certain nombre de chercheurs ont essayé de préciser les critères possibles de zones « homologues », c'est-à-dire susceptibles de permettre la croissance et le développement des mêmes espèces.

Un certain nombre de techniques ont été proposées pour reconnaître cette homologie. Qu'elles se fondent sur la météorologie, l'aspect de la végétation, la composition flôristique, la culture des plantes utiles, ces techniques se sont révélées insuffisantes. Elles permettent seulement de guider l'acclimatation, mais elles nécessitent d'être employées avec beaucoup d'esprit critique et surtout avec une connaissance précise des exigences écologiques des espèces à acclimater.
Survival of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells labelled with red fluorescent protein in an ovine model of collagenase-induced tendinitis
Authors: Staffieri F. , Rossi G. , Francioso E. , Crovace A. , Lacitignola L.
Published: April 2014

Objective: The aim of this study was to track the survival and efficacy of allogeneic bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSC) marked with red fluorescent protein (BMMSCRFP) in an ovine model of collagenase-induced tendinopathy.

Methods: Bone marrow was harvested from one donor sheep and BM-MSC were isolated, cultivated and transfected with red fluorescent protein (BM-MSCRFP). Collagenase was injected into both Achilles tendons in the remaining nine sheep. After two weeks the left tendon was injected with a solution of 6 x 106 BM-MSCRFP and fibrin glue, while only fibrin glue was administered to the contralateral tendon in each sheep. After three, four and six weeks the tendons were harvested and evaluated for morphology, collagen I deposition, presence of CD34+ cells, and fluorescent labelled BM-MSC.

Results: We demonstrated that delivery of BM-MSC into tendon lesions had positive effects on the injured tendons. The BM-MSCRFP survived at three, four and six weeks after treatment, leading to better quality healing of tendons as compared to the controls, where no labelled cells were detected. Interestingly, we demonstrated high expression of CD34+ cells in tendons that had been treated with BM-MSCRFP.

Clinical relevance: Mesenchymal stem cell allografts have a positive effect on tendon healing and local injection of BM-MSC directly into the tendon allows the homing of BM-MSC for good efficiency of engraftment.
The use of medical leeches for venous congestion
Authors: Buote N. J.
Published: April 2014

The medicinal leech, Hirudo medicinalis, has been used for hundreds of years in human medicine for a variety of diseases, most recently including venous congestion following reconstructive surgeries (skin flaps and reimplantations), excessive lingual and periorbital swelling, and non-traditional treatments for osteoarthritis, compartment syndrome and sialoadenitis. The treatment of venous congestion in animals using leeches has been mentioned anecdotally, but the only published report pertains to the use of leeches in a cat suffering from polycythemia vera. We report the use of medical grade leeches in a one-year-old male castrated Domestic Shorthaired cat presenting with severe swelling of the paw after sustaining a constrictive injury from a bandage. The limb use had become compromised and the swelling was not responsive to compression bandages so leech therapy was instituted for four days and the swelling dramatically improved. The patient's limb use improved back to normal and the constrictive wound went on to heal without complication. The use of leeches in this case allowed for resolution of severe venous congestion and a full return to function in this patient with no continued skin loss. The mechanism of action of hirudotherapy for venous congestion is to allow for an alternative egress of pooled venous blood leading to a reduction in capillary pressure and increases in arterial reperfusion of capillary beds. The human and veterinary applications, method, and potential complications with hirudotherapy are discussed in this review.
Donor Pretreatment with IL-1 Receptor Antagonist Attenuates Inflammation and Improves Functional Potency in Islets from Brain-Dead Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Danobeitia Juan S. , Hanson Matthew S. , Chlebeck Peter , Park Elisa , Sperger Jamie M. , Schwarznau Alice , Fernandez Luis A.
Published: April 2014

Most pancreas and islet grafts are recovered from brain-dead (BD) donors. In this study we characterized the early inflammatory response induced by brain death in pancreata and islets from nonhuman primate donors and evaluated the effect of targeted anti-inflammatory intervention in the protection of pancreatic islets prior to transplantation. BD donors were monitored for 6 h and assigned to three experimental groups: group 1: BD-untreated donors (BD-UT) ( n = 7), group 2: BD + donor pretreatment with IL-1ra ( n = 6), and group 3: non-BD animals serving as controls ( n = 7). We observed an IL-1ra-dependent reduction in the mobilization and activation of neutrophils from bone marrow and a significantly reduced accumulation of CD68+leukocytes in the pancreas and islets after brain death induction. Donor treatment with IL-1ra significantly decreased chemokine mRNA expression (MCP-1, IL-8, and MIP-1a) and attenuated the activation of circulating neutrophils and intraislet macrophages as demonstrated by a reduction in intracellular IL-1β, IL-6, MCP-1, and MIP-1α expression. As a result, IL-1ra dramatically improved viability, mitochondrial membrane polarity, and islet engraftment in mice transplanted using a minimal islet mass. These results suggest that early immunomodulation targeting inflammation in the BD donor may represent an effective therapeutic strategy to improve islet quality and function prior to transplantation.
CoPc and CoPcF16 on gold: Site-specific charge-transfer processes
Authors: Petraki Fotini , Peisert Heiko , Uihlein Johannes , Aygül Umut , Chassé Thomas
Published: April 2014

Interface properties of cobalt(II) phthalocyanine (CoPc) and cobalt(II) hexadecafluoro-phthalocyanine (CoPcF16) to gold are investigated by photo-excited electron spectroscopies (X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS), ultraviolet photoemission spectroscopy (UPS) and X-ray excited Auger electron spectroscopy (XAES)). It is shown that a bidirectional charge transfer determines the interface energetics for CoPc and CoPcF16 on Au. Combined XPS and XAES measurements allow for the separation of chemical shifts based on different local charges at the considered atom caused by polarization effects. This facilitates a detailed discussion of energetic shifts of core level spectra. The data allow the discussion of site-specific charge-transfer processes.
MONITORING OF INTERACTIONS OF A MONUMENTAL HISTORICAL COMPLEX LOCATED ON AN EARTH EMBANKMENT
Authors: Miedzialowski Czeslaw , Malesza Jaroslaw , Malesza Mikołaj , Ustinovichius Leonas
Published: April 2014

The Camaldolese Monastery was built in the seventeenth-century on a man-made hill raised on a Wigry lake is land in the north-eastern part of Poland. Over the following two hundred years, the Monastery buildings were subjected to destructive weathering processes and underwent significant demolition during the two World Wars. Subsequently, the complex was reconstructed and renewed. All the Monastery buildings were raised on two earth terraces varying in height from 6 to 8 m. The terraces were formed of crushed bricks and stone debris that filled up the underground structures built earlier. The hill is composed of different geotechnical layers and their influence on the stability of the whole hill, displacement and deformation of the buildings have been monitored. The results of the monitoring are presented in the paper. The thickness of backfilled soil layers varies from 1 to 5 m and an assessment of layer parameters is influencing the actual state and future renovation of the Monastery buildings. In 2004, the Monastery buildings were affected by dynamic forces of an earthquake that measured 5.3 on the Richter scale despite the fact that this region had never been subjected to any seismic hazards. As a result, larger than expected deformations of the sub-base caused excessive cracking of the buildings and destruction of existing water and sewage system.