bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk Matters: The Real Effects of Volatility Shocks
Authors: Fernández-Villaverde Jesús , Guerrón-Quintana Pablo , Rubio-Ramírez Juan F , Uribe Martin
Published: October 2011

We show how changes in the volatility of the real interest rate at which small open emerging economies borrow have an important effect on variables like output, consumption, investment, and hours. We start by documenting the strong evidence of time-varying volatility in the real interest rates faced by four emerging economies: Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, and Venezuela. We estimate a stochastic volatility process for real interest rates. Then, we feed this process in a standard small open economy business cycle model. We find that an increase in real interest rate volatility triggers a fall in output, consumption, investment, hours, and debt. (JEL E13, E20, E32, E43, F32, F43, 011)
Bid Preference Programs and Participation in Highway Procurement Auctions
Authors: Krasnokutskaya Elena , Seim Katja
Published: October 2011

We use data from highway procurement auctions subject to California's Small Business Preference program to study the effect of bid preferences on auction outcomes. Our analysis is based on an estimated model of firms' bidding and participation decisions, which allows us to evaluate the effects of current and alternative policy designs. We show that incorporating participation responses significantly alters the assessment of preferential treatment policies. (JEL D44, H76, R42)
The Chinese Warrants Bubble
Authors: Xiong Wei , Yu Jialin
Published: October 2011

In 2005–2008, over a dozen put warrants traded in China went so deep out of the money that they were almost certain to expire worthless. Nonetheless, each warrant was traded more than three times each day at substantially inflated prices. This bubble is unique in that the underlying stock prices make warrant fundamentals publicly observable and that warrants have predetermined finite maturities. This sample allows us to examine a set of bubble theories. In particular, our analysis highlights the joint effects of short-sales constraints and heterogeneous beliefs in driving bubbles and confirms several key findings of the experimental bubble literature. (JEL G12, G13, O16, P34)
How Demanding Is the Revealed Preference Approach to Demand?
Authors: Beatty Timothy K. M , Crawford Ian A
Published: October 2011

A well-known problem with revealed preference methods is that when data are found to satisfy their restrictions it is hard to know whether this should be viewed as a triumph for economic theory, or a warning that these conditions are so undemanding that almost anything goes. This paper allows researchers to make this distinction. Our approach uses an axiomatic characterization of a measure of predictive success due to Selten (1991). We illustrate the idea using a panel dataset. The results show that this approach can lead us to radically reassess our view of the empirical performance of economic theory. JEL: D11, D12
Noncompensatory Dyadic Choices
Authors: Arora Neeraj , Henderson Ty , Liu Qing
Published: October 2011

Whereas literature in marketing shows that individuals often use noncompensatory decision rules, existing research on dyadic choice is based on compensatory models. In this paper we present a dyadic consider-then-choose model that investigates both compensatory and noncompensatory aspects of the joint decision process. The intersection of individual consideration sets at the dyad level gives rise to dyadic decision processes (DDPs) where dyad members are in concordance or discordance about alternatives to consider. We empirically investigate the implications of different DDPs on outcomes such as decision efficiency and dyadic welfare. The methodological approach merges choice experiments with Bayesian statistical models to uncover nuances of the dyadic choice process. Data were collected using a multiphase nationwide study of 265 husband-and-wife dyads. Results across three categories indicate that both concordant and discordant dyads exist. Among concordant dyads, the noncompensatory dyads make quicker decisions that result in higher dyadic welfare. Among discordant dyads, those that restrict their consideration set make quicker decisions that result in higher welfare than those that expand their consideration set. These findings have important implications for buyers looking to maximize dyadic welfare when making joint choices and for sellers making pricing and new product design decisions.
On the phonetic status of syllabic consonants: Evidence from Slovak
Authors: Pouplier Marianne , Beňuš Štefan
Published: October 2011

This paper investigates the phonetic correlates of syllable structure, focusing on syllabic consonants. Cross-linguistically, syllables containing consonantal nuclei are often subject to a number of restrictions compared to their vocalic counterparts. However, some languages, like Slovak, allow relatively freely distributed syllabic liquids. Phonetic studies of syllable structure have shown that the vowel provides the basis for the articulatory coordination relationships within a syllable, and consonant–vowel timing patterns have been identified as a primary phonetic correlate of syllable structure. However, how coordination relationships within a syllable are organized when a consonant occupies the nucleus is largely unknown. We investigate whether in Slovak, syllabic consonants change their consonantal kinematics to approach a more vowel-like articulation and whether vowel-less syllables differ in their articulatory timing characteristics from canonical syllables containing vowels. Our results show that a consonant does not change to be more like a vowel in its articulatory dynamics when occupying the nucleus position. However, we find consistent effects in articulatory timing in that consonantal syllables show less overlap on a variety of measures compared to vocalic syllables. We argue that the typological possibility for syllabic consonants may be related to the general consonant timing pattern of a language.
Realization of voiceless stops and vowels in conversational French and Spanish
Authors: Torreira Francisco , Ernestus Mirjam
Published: October 2011

The present study compares the realization of intervocalic voiceless stops and vowels surrounded by voiceless stops in conversational Spanish and French. Our data reveal significant differences in how these segments are realized in each language. Spanish voiceless stops tend to have shorter stop closures, display incomplete closures more often, and exhibit more voicing than French voiceless stops. As for vowels, more cases of complete devoicing and greater degrees of partial devoicing were found in French than in Spanish. Moreover, all French vowel types exhibit significantly lower F1 values than their Spanish counterparts. These findings indicate that the extent of reduction that a segment type can undergo in conversational speech can vary significantly across languages. Language differences in coarticulatory strategies and “base-of-articulation” are discussed as possible causes of our observations.
Inclined Tensile Load Testing on Short Drilled Shafts
Authors: Puppala Anand J. , Wejrungsikul Thornchaya , Williammee Richard S. , Thomas Witherspoon W. , Lozano Nicasio
Published: October 2011

Several drilled shafts supporting three-cable median barrier systems failed in North Texas during severe winter storms in 2006-2007. The original design of these foundations did not consider both uplift and lateral forces acting on the shafts at the same time. Since the barrier cables were fastened to the drilled shafts at an angle, it is hypothesized that an inclined pullout from both cable contraction due to seasonal temperature changes and soil softening may have contributed to the foundation failures. Hence, an attempt is made to design, conduct, and study inclined load tests on various drilled shafts of different dimensions. A total of twelve load tests were conducted on different drilled shafts in both summer and winter. This paper presents a summary of inclined load resistances of drilled shafts and vertical and horizontal movements from various types of instrumentation including the MEMS based system. The test results are also analyzed to explain the seasonal effects on the resistances of drilled shaft foundations.
Comparison of Damage Criteria for Structures to Near-Field Blast-Induced Ground Motions
Authors: Mehmet Özcan D. , Bayraktar Alemdar , Can Altunişik Ahmet
Published: October 2011

Our research aims to compare the existing damage standard for structures subjected to near-field blast-induced ground motions. Sixty-four different blasting records were collected from the selected quarry during 20 months in Trabzon, Turkey. Blasting characteristics such as peak particle velocities, dominant frequencies, air pressures, maximum accelerations, and maximum displacements were measured during the blasting on hard soil. Longitudinal, transverse and vertical peak particle velocities were evaluated using existing vibration standards or damage criteria such as United States (USBM 8507), Germany (DIN 4150), Sweden (SS 25210), India (IS 6922), England (BS 7385), Australia (CA 23), and Turkey. According to the U.S., English and Turkish vibration standards, the measured blast-induced ground motions did not cause the significant damage on the structures as compared with the other standards. It was observed that U.S., English, and Turkish standards are very suitable to evaluate the structural damage level of structures to near-field blast-induced ground motions. In addition, nonlinear dynamic analyses of reinforced concrete (RC) highway bridge were performed. The analytical model was constituted by ANSYS. From the analysis, displacements are increased along to the middle of the bridge deck. The maximum and minimum principal stresses are obtained at the top of the bridge column and at the middle of the bridge spans.
Fibroblast growth factor 2 is a key determinant of vascular sprouting during bovine luteal angiogenesis
Authors: Woad Kathryn J , Hunter Morag G , Mann George E , Laird Mhairi , Hammond Amanda J , Robinson Robert S
Published: October 2011

Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 2 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) A are thought to be key controllers of luteal angiogenesis; however, their precise roles in the regulation and coordination of this complex process remain unknown. Thus, the temporal and spatial patterns of endothelial network formation were determined by culturing mixed cell types from early bovine corpora lutea on fibronectin in the presence of FGF2 and VEGFA (6 h to 9 days). Endothelial cells, as determined by von Willebrand factor immunohistochemistry, initially grew in cell islands (days 0–3), before undergoing a period of vascular sprouting to display a more tubule-like appearance (days 3–6), and after 9 days in culture had formed extensive intricate networks. Mixed populations of luteal cells were treated with SU1498 (VEGF receptor 2 inhibitor) or SU5402 (FGF receptor 1 inhibitor) or control on days 0–3, 3–6 or 6–9 to determine the role of FGF2 and VEGFA during these specific windows. The total area of endothelial cells was unaffected by SU1498 treatment during any window. In contrast, SU5402 treatment caused maximal reduction in the total area of endothelial cell networks on days 3–6 vs controls (mean reduction 81%;P<0.001) during the period of tubule initiation. Moreover, SU5402 treatment on days 3–6 dramatically reduced the total number of branch points (P<0.001) and degree of branching per endothelial cell island (P<0.05) in the absence of changes in mean island area. This suggests that FGF2 is a key determinant of vascular sprouting and hence critical to luteal development.
Computer Guided Surgery for Implant Placement and Dental Rehabilitation in a Patient Undergoing Sub-Total Mandibulectomy and Microvascular Free Flap Reconstruction
Authors: Dawood Andrew , Tanner Susan , Hutchison Iain
Published: October 2011

A 58-year-old patient presented with an extensive, destructive, recurrent pleomorphic adenoma occupying the mandibular body and the soft tissues of the mouth and neck. Resection of the mandible from right ramus to left condylar process, and implant rehabilitation in both jaws with fixed bridgework was planned. Comprehensive presurgical prosthetic work up was carried out to record the existing dental relationship and guide all stages of the reconstruction. The jaw was first grafted with a segmented, fibular microvascular free-flap, which was fixed in place with a fixation plate prebent on a Rapid Prototype Anatomical Model of the jaw. Reconstruction with implant supported fixed partial dentures took place to the dental scheme planned preresection, using a computer guided approach to implant placement in the complex and unfamiliar anatomy of the extensively grafted mandible. This approach facilitated and expedited implant surgery such that treatment could take place using a minimally invasive approach relatively soon after surgery, prior to commencement of radiotherapy, and highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to treatment for patients having extensive surgery to the jaws. The patient's personal assessment 2 years post surgery was recorded using 1999 University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire.
Theoretical and experimental characterization of double-disk whispering-gallery microcavities
Authors: Soo Chang Jee , Lee Shinyoung , Hoon Lee Seung , You Jong-Bum , H. Shin Jung , Min Bumki
Published: October 2011

Double-disk resonators, composed of two nearly-identical dielectric
disks separated by nanoscale air gap, can be configured to exhibit small
modal volumes with high-Q factors. Compared to the two fundamental
eigenmodes of a single-disk resonator (TE and TM), those supported
by the double-disk microcavity are split into four modes, which can be
categorized as symmetric and antisymmetric modes: TEs/TEas and
TMs/TMas, depending on the field symmetry. Theoretical descriptions
on these eigenmodes are given with regard to the cavity performance
metrics such as cavity mode dispersion, Q-factor, and mode
index. Experimental verification of these eigenmodes is provided for
a 40-nm gap double-disk/air-slot resonator. In addition to these optical
mode characterizations, the mechanical eigenmodes of double-disk
structures, which can be actuated by the optical gradient forces, are
investigated.
A Lyapunov-Krasovskii methodology for asymptotic stability of discrete time delay systems
Authors: Stojanovic Sreten , Debeljkovic Dragutin , Mladenovic Ilija
Published: October 2011

This paper presents a Lyapunov-Krasovskii methodology for asymptotic stability of discrete time delay systems. Based on the methods, delay-independent stability condition is derived. A numerical example has been working out to show the applicability of results derived.
Inverted sine carrier for fundamental fortification in PWM inverters and FPGA based implementations
Authors: Jeevananthan S. , Nandhakumar R. , Dananjayan P.
Published: October 2011

This paper deals with a novel natural sampled pulse width modulation (PWM) switching strategy for voltage source inverter through carrier modification. The proposed inverted sine carrier PWM (ISCPWM) method, which uses the conventional sinusoidal reference signal and an inverted sine carrier, has a better spectral quality and a higher fundamental component compared to the conventional sinusoidal PWM (SPWM) without any pulse dropping. The ISCPWM strategy enhances the fundamental output voltage particularly at lower modulation index ranges while keeping the total harmonic distortion (THD) lower without involving changes in device switching losses. The presented mathematical preliminaries for both SPWM and ISCPWM give a conceptual understanding and a comparison of the strategies. The detailed comparison of the harmonic content and fundamental component of the ISCPWM output for different values of modulation index with the results obtained for the SPWM is also presented. Finally, the proposed modulator has been implemented in field programmable gate array (FPGA- Xilinx Spartan 3) and tested with the proto-type inverter.
Lossless predictive compression of medical images
Authors: Avramovic Aleksej , Savic Slavica
Published: October 2011

Among the many categories of images that require lossless compression, medical images can be indicated as one of the most important category. Medical image compression with loss impairs of diagnostic value, therefore, there are often legal restrictions on the image compression with losses. Among the common approaches to medical image compression we can distinguish the transformation-based and prediction-based approaches. This paper presents algorithms for the prediction based on the edge detection and estimation of local gradient. Also, a novel prediction algorithm based on advantages of standardized median predictor and gradient predictor is presented and analyzed. Removed redundancy estimation was done by comparing entropies of the medical image after prediction.
Capacity evaluation for maximal ratio combining over κ-μ fading channels
Authors: Stefanovic Mihajlo , Panic Stefan , Anastasov Jelena , Cvetkovic Aleksandra , Popovic Zoran
Published: October 2011

Analysis of channel capacity per unit bandwidth of L - branch maximal ratio combining (MRC) receiver operating over ?-? fading channels for two adaptive transmission schemes is presented in this paper. Using the proposed system model, the optimal power and rate adaptation and constant transmit power policies are analyzed. New expressions for capacity evaluation are derived in terms of finite sums. The effects of diversity order and fading parameters on the channel capacity for given techniques have been considered and numerically presented.
Education's outside
Authors: Standish Paul , Ricken Norbert
Published: October 2011

Is the university to be thought of as in service of society — that is, on the inside? Or should it be regarded rather as its potential critic and prophet of its best prospects, and hence be understood to be on the outside? This is just one example of the multiple ways in which thinking in terms of the inside and the outside figures in educational policy and practice. While the opposition recurs across the broad range of our political and personal lives, it is there in the detail of conceptions of teaching and learning, and of the content of the curriculum. This article seeks to examine some implications of this opposition. It does this by reference to an article by Jacques Derrida in which questions concerning the inside and the outside, of inclusion and exclusion, of purity and contamination, are considered in relation to language itself and to the problems and possibilities of translation.

On the surface the reflections of Paul Standish are a very good and impressive example of a European and international philosophy of education today and illustrate the overcoming of traditional limitations of language: here is an English philosopher of education dealing with a German debate between Gershom Scholem and Franz Rosenzweig in the 1920s, which was reread by a French philosopher — Jacques Derrida — in English. But from a second perspective, the reflections of Paul Standish are somehow discouraging, because one of the main topics of this article is the problem and limitation of language, the possibility and impossibility of translation and — therefore — the limitations of language in general. Therefore in this reply the author's comment will oscillate between the problems of understanding and translating — and will lead into foreignness as a consequence of these differences. In order to do this the author gives a very short reconstruction of the main ideas in order to prove that he has understood the argumentation in an adequate way (I), and then develops his questions concerning the ideas of Paul Standish (II).
Effect of Rosiglitazone on Bone Quality in a Rat Model of Insulin Resistance and Osteoporosis
Authors: Sardone Laura D. , Renlund Richard , Willett Thomas L. , Fantus Ivan G. , Grynpas Marc D.
Published: October 2011

OBJECTIVE

Rosiglitazone (RSG) is an insulin-sensitizing drug used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. The A Diabetes Outcome Progression Trial (ADOPT) shows that women taking RSG experienced more fractures than patients taking other type 2 diabetes drugs. These were not osteoporotic vertebral fractures but, rather, occurred in the limbs. The purpose of this study was to investigate how RSG treatment alters bone quality, which leads to fracture risk, using the Zucker fatty rat as a model.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 61 female 4-month-old rats were divided into six groups. One Sham group was a control and another was administered oral RSG 10 mg/kg/day. Four ovariectomized (OVX) groups were dosed as follows: controls, RSG 10 mg/kg, alendronate (ALN, injected at 0.7 mg/kg/week), and RSG 10 mg/kg plus ALN. After 12 weeks of treatment, bone quality was evaluated by mechanical testing. Microarchitecture, bone mineral density (BMD), cortical bone porosity, and bone remodeling were also measured.

RESULTS

OVX RSG 10 mg/kg rats had lower vertebral BMD and compromised trabecular architecture versus OVX controls. Increased cortical bone porosity and decreased mechanical properties occurred in these rats. ALN treatment prevented decreased BMD and architectural and mechanical properties in the OVX model. Reduced bone formation, increased marrow adiposity, and excess bone resorption were observed in RSG-treated rats.

CONCLUSIONS

RSG decreases bone quality. An unusual finding was an increase in cortical bone porosity induced by RSG, consistent with its effect on long bones of women. ALN, an inhibitor of bone resorption, enhanced mechanical strength and may provide an approach to partially counter the deleterious skeletal effects of RSG.
Single Insulin-Specific CD8+ T Cells Show Characteristic Gene Expression Profiles in Human Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Luce Sandrine , Lemonnier François , Briand Jean-Paul , Coste Joel , Lahlou Najiba , Muller Sylviane , Larger Etienne , Rocha Benedita , Mallone Roberto , Boitard Christian
Published: October 2011

OBJECTIVE

Both the early steps and the high recurrence of autoimmunity once the disease is established are unexplained in human type 1 diabetes. Because CD8+ T cells are central and insulin is a key autoantigen in the disease process, our objective was to characterize HLA class I–restricted autoreactive CD8+ T cells specific for preproinsulin (PPI) in recent-onset and long-standing type 1 diabetic patients and healthy control subjects.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used HLA-A*02:01 tetramers complexed to PPI peptides to enumerate circulating PPI-specific CD8+ T cells in patients and characterize them using membrane markers and single-cell PCR.

RESULTS

Most autoreactive CD8+ T cells detected in recent-onset type 1 diabetic patients are specific for leader sequence peptides, notably PPI6–14, whereas CD8+ T cells in long-standing patients recognize the B-chain peptide PPI33–42 (B9–18). Both CD8+ T-cell specificities are predominantly naïve, central, and effector memory cells, and their gene expression profile differs from cytomegalovirus-specific CD8+ T cells. PPI6–14–specific CD8+ T cells detected in one healthy control displayed Il-10 mRNA expression, which was not observed in diabetic patients.

CONCLUSIONS

PPI-specific CD8+ T cells in type 1 diabetic patients include central memory and target different epitopes in new-onset versus long-standing disease. Our data support the hypothesis that insulin therapy may contribute to the expansion of autoreactive CD8+ T cells in the long term.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of High-Dose Human Regular U-500 Insulin Versus Human Regular U-100 Insulin in Healthy Obese Subjects
Authors: de la Peña Amparo , Riddle Matthew , Morrow Linda A. , Jiang Honghua H. , Linnebjerg Helle , Scott Adam , Win Khin M. , Hompesch Marcus , Mace Kenneth F. , Jacobson Jennie G. , Jackson Jeffrey A.
Published: October 2011

OBJECTIVE

Human regular U-500 (U-500R) insulin (500 units/mL) is increasingly being used clinically, yet its pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) have not been well studied. Therefore, we compared PK and PD of clinically relevant doses of U-500R with the same doses of human regular U-100 (U-100R) insulin (100 units/mL).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a single-site, randomized, double-blind, crossover euglycemic clamp study. Single subcutaneous injections of 50- and 100-unit doses of U-500R and U-100R were administered to 24 healthy obese subjects.

RESULTS

Both overall insulin exposure (area under the serum insulin concentration versus time curve from zero to return to baseline [AUC0-t’]) and overall effect (total glucose infused during a clamp) were similar between formulations at both 50- and 100-unit doses (90% [CI] of ratios contained within [0.80, 1.25]). However, peak concentration and effect were significantly lower for U-500R at both doses (P < 0.05). Both formulations produced relatively long durations of action (18.3 to 21.5 h). Time-to-peak concentration and time to maximum effect were significantly longer for U-500R than U-100R at the 100-unit dose (P < 0.05). Time variables reflective of duration of action (late tRmax50, tRlast) were prolonged for U-500R versus U-100R at both doses (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall exposure to and action of U-500R insulin after subcutaneous injection were no different from those of U-100R insulin. For U-500R, peaks of concentration and action profiles were blunted and the effect after the peak was prolonged. These findings may help guide therapy with U-500R insulin for highly insulin-resistant patients with diabetes.
Underlying diseases in dogs referred to a veterinary teaching hospital because of dyspnea: 229 cases (2003–2007)
Authors: Fonfara Sonja , de la Heras Alegret Lourdes , German Alexander J. , Blackwood Laura , Dukes-McEwan Joanna , M. Noble P-J. , Burrow Rachel D.
Published: October 2011

Objective—To identify the most frequent underlying diseases in dogs examined because of dyspnea and determine whether signalment, clinical signs, and duration of clinical signs might help guide assessment of the underlying condition and prognosis.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—229 dogs with dyspnea.

Procedures—Case records of dogs referred for dyspnea were reviewed and grouped according to location or etiology (upper airway, lower respiratory tract, pleural space, cardiac diseases, or obesity and stress). Signalment, clinical signs at initial examination, treatment, and survival time were analyzed.

Results—Upper airway (n = 74 [32%]) and lower respiratory tract (76 [33%]) disease were the most common diagnoses, followed by pleural space (44 [19%]) and cardiac (27 [12%]) diseases. Dogs with upper airway and pleural space disease were significantly younger than dogs with lower respiratory tract and cardiac diseases. Dogs with lower respiratory tract and associated systemic diseases were significantly less likely to be discharged from the hospital. Dogs with diseases that were treated surgically had a significantly better outcome than did medically treated patients, which were significantly more likely to be examined on an emergency basis with short duration of clinical signs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In dogs examined because of dyspnea, young dogs may be examined more frequently with breed-associated upper respiratory tract obstruction or pleural space disease after trauma, whereas older dogs may be seen more commonly with progressive lower respiratory tract or acquired cardiac diseases. Nontraumatic acute onset dyspnea is often associated with a poor prognosis, but stabilization, especially in patients with cardiac disease, is possible. Obesity can be an important contributing or exacerbating factor in dyspneic dogs.
Surficial geophysical deduction of the geomaterial and aquifer distributions at Ngor-Okpala local government area of Imo State, South Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Victor Obianwu , Innocent Chimezie , Anthony Akpan , Jimmy George
Published: October 2011

Twenty seven vertical electrical sounding (VES) profiles surrounding four known traverses were obtained in Ngor-Okpala local government area of Imo state to examine the subsurface geomaterials and the associated groundwater potential. The VES data, constrained by borehole data, provided useful information about the subsurface hydrogeologic and lithologic conditions. From the validated interpretation, the area assessed has loamy soil, medium grained sands, well-sorted medium-grained/gravelly sands and river sand as the lithologic succession from top to the bottom of the depth penetrated. The aquifers in the area were found in the medium-grained sands and well-sorted medium-coarse-grained sands. The aquifer depth for all-season groundwater that would be devoid of draw-down can be found at a depth range of 42–50 m. The resistivity maps of selected depths exhibit sharp resistivity changes at depth due mainly to undulating subsurface topography. A map of the distribution of the kσ-values shows that good quality groundwater can be found in most parts of the area.
Neonatal meningitis caused by Elizabethkingia meningoseptica in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Amer Malaka Z , Bandey Manzour , Bukhari Abdalla , Nemenqani Dalal
Published: October 2011

Elizabethkingia meningoseptica is a multi-drug resistant organism that can cause meningitis in premature neonates. We report a case of Elizabethkingia meningoseptica meningitis that was detected early in an extremely premature low birth weight infant. He was successfully treated with a combination of ciprofloxacin and piperacillin-tazobactam. The spread of infection was controlled with no other reported cases.
Gestion des connaissances en contexte projet : quelles pratiques et quels enjeux pour les entreprises ?
Authors: Sargis Caroline
Published: October 2011

Résumé Si les pratiques de gestion des connaissances se multiplient dans les entreprises, il n’en reste pas moins que les résultats attendus ne sont pas toujours atteints. Cet article pose la question des dispositifs de gestion des connaissances appropriés en contexte projet et en souligne les principaux enjeux. Une étude de cas longitudinale menée lors d’un projet de refonte du système d’information d’une banque amène des éléments de réponse à ces questions. Elle permet notamment de mettre en évidence que les dispositifs de gestion des connaissances en contexte projet, loin d’être uniformes, reposent sur des modalités à la fois techniques et sociales qui évoluent selon le degré de codifiabilité et de dispersion des connaissances. Ces modalités sont elles-mêmes évolutives en fonction des différentes phases du projet. Enfin, ce mode de gestion dual des connaissances est aussi fortement contraint par la temporalité qui caractérise le projet.
Quelles stratégies pour les musées sur Internet ? Entre « click and mortar » et « mortar and click »
Authors: Notebaert Jean-François , Pulh Mathilde , Mencarelli Rémi , Graillot Laurence , Bourgeon-Renault Dominique , Marteaux-Mencarelli Séverine
Published: October 2011

Résumé De nombreuses entreprises utilisent Internet dans le cadre d’une stratégie click and mortar. Cette même stratégie est également utilisée dans le champ muséal, mais ses conséquences n’ont pas été évaluées. Une étude quantitative menée sur un échantillon de 388 visiteurs, effectuée au musée de Bibracte (France), indique que la satisfaction et la confiance éprouvées lors de la navigation par les internautes ont une influence directe sur un bouche à oreille positif et la visite effective du musée. Dès lors, il paraît intéressant d’intégrer le site Internet au management des activités culturelles et artistiques, tout en respectant les spécificités de ce domaine d’activité.
E-terview & interview : étude comparative de méthodes de recueil de données online & offline
Authors: Maubisson Laurent , Abaidi Ibtissame
Published: October 2011

Résumé L’objet de cette étude est d’apprécier la transposition en ligne du traditionnel entretien individuel en face-à-face. A la lumière des 13 entretiens semi-directifs réalisés pour chacune des méthodes d’administration ( online vs offline ), nous évaluons la pertinence de l’utilisation de la technique des «e-terviews» pour le recueil de données qualitatives. L’instrumentalisation numérique permet d’améliorer les qualités lexicographiques des corpus et la robustesse de cette méthode semble en partie être vérifiée.
La psychothérapie individuelle d'orientation systémique : une thérapie sans famille ?
Authors: Duruz Nicolas
Published: October 2011

Poursuivant en les approfondissant les réflexions d’un groupe de travail du CEF à Lausanne, consacré à la psychothérapie individuelle d’orientation systémique, l’auteur pose la question dans cet article de la légitimité pour les systémiciens d’une telle pratique : la pensée et la clinique systémiques les autorisent-elles à s’intéresser à l’individu ? L’enjeu idéologique ainsi mieux cerné, l’article peut alors aborder les questions de méthode et de techniques engagées dans un tel type de psychothérapie, et plus succinctement, celles de la formation à cette pratique.
Famille d'origine, la première famille du thérapeute en formation
Authors: Van Cutsem Chantal , Ackermans Alain , Carlier Colette , Laurent Michèle , Lietaert Céline , Stockebrand Béatrice
Published: October 2011

Lors de la formation des cliniciens aux entretiens familiaux, des réflexions fréquentes émergent au sein des groupes quant aux liens entre les familles rencontrées et les familles des étudiants. Depuis de nombreuses années, le Centre d’Etudes de la Famille et des Systèmes a choisi de prendre en considération ces réflexions en travaillant avec chaque étudiant la transmission des valeurs et des ressources au sein de sa famille d’origine. La parole est donc donnée à plusieurs membres de cette famille choisis par l’étudiant au cours d’un entretien unique, en présence du groupe de formation. Les membres présents abordent grâce à leur témoignage le récit de la spécificité de leur système familial d’origine et la transmission générationnelle des valeurs. Cet article abordera les théories qui sont à la base de nos réflexions, la différence fondamentale entre le roman et le récit, les questions que posent l’écriture du roman et sa diffusion, la place du formateur et le déroulement de l’entretien. Nous conclurons par quelques effets décrits par les étudiants et les groupes de formation recueillis par un travail d’évaluation finale.
Famille, migration et identité : à propos des bidonvilles
Authors: Rabeh Sijelmassi Aicha
Published: October 2011

Comment dans la précarité d’un contexte socio-économique marginalisé peut-on remédier au dysfonctionnement familial ? Une association de type thérapeutique peut-elle prévenir les troubles de l’hygiène mentale dans un contexte d’exclusion ?
Les effets de proximité dans l’appropriation collective d’un grand parc paysager à saguenay
Authors: Tremblay Marie-Hélène , Simard Martin
Published: October 2011

L’idée d’interpénétrer la ville et la nature est au cœur des préoccupations urbanistiques depuis fort longtemps. Au XIX siècle, l’aménagement de grands parcs urbains comme Central Park à New York en constitue un exemple éloquent. Qu’il s’agisse de la création de liens sociaux, du rapport à la nature ou de la formation de l’identité collective, les grands parcs urbains contribuent à la qualité de vie des collectivités. Imaginés, conçus, puis aménagés par les professionnels de l’aménagement urbain, ces espaces publics seront ensuite adoptés ou non par les résidants et les visiteurs, selon divers facteurs. Dans ce contexte, cet article se penche sur les mécanismes d’appropriation collective d’un grand parc paysager. Plus précisément, nous avons cherché à savoir s’il y a des effets de proximité dans les représentations et pratiques des groupes d’usagers. Pour ce faire, nous nous sommes penchés sur le cas du site de la zone portuaire de Chicoutimi, à Saguenay. Un sondage a été réalisé auprès des utilisateurs. Nous avons ainsi pu constater que le fait d’habiter un endroit en particulier influence non seulement les représentations sociales liées à l’aménagement d’un grand parc paysager, mais aussi les pratiques des usagers.
Épandage agricole des biosolides municipaux : contenu en métaux et en PBDE du lait de vache
Authors: Hébert Marc , Lemyre-Charest Dominic , Gagnon Guy , Messier François , Grosbois Sylvie de
Published: October 2011

On a mesuré l’impact de l’épandage de biosolides (boues d’épuration municipales traitées) sur la qualité du lait de vache en conditions réelles d’opération à la ferme, selon le cadre réglementaire prescrit au Québec. Le lait de 14 fermes réceptrices de biosolides a été échantillonné dans la région de Saguenay en décembre 2009 et comparé au lait de 14 fermes témoins. Les fermes réceptrices avaient un historique moyen de 11 années d’épandage. L’analyse statistique révèle l’absence d’impact sur la teneur du lait en contaminants inorganiques (arsenic, cuivre, molybdène, zinc et thallium) et suggère l’absence d’hypocuprémie induite chez les bovins des fermes réceptrices. La teneur en diphényls éther polybromés (PBDE) était par contre plus élevée dans le lait du groupe de fermes avec biosolides. Cette différence pourrait être en partie attribuable à la variabilité de l’exposition aux poussières entre les bâtiments d’élevage. La teneur moyenne en PBDE du lait des fermes réceptrices demeure cependant très faible (7,2 ng/L), soit de 3 à 7 fois inférieure aux teneurs moyennes relevées pour divers produits laitiers aux États-Unis et en Europe sur base de la matière grasse. Ces plus faibles teneurs pourraient en partie être expliquées par des dépôts atmosphériques moindres sur les herbages au Saguenay ou par un niveau de contamination moindre des poussières de bâtiments d’élevage. Selon les résultats de cette étude, les connaissances actuelles et les données disponibles, l’épandage de biosolides municipaux selon le cadre réglementaire québécois serait sans impact notable sur l’exposition globale aux PBDE des consommateurs de produits laitiers du Québec.
Vulnérabilité sanitaire et environnementale dans les quartiers défavorisés de Nouakchott (Mauritanie) : analyse des conditions d’émergence et de développement de maladies en milieu urbain sahélien
Authors: Sy Ibrahima , Koita Mouhamadou , Traoré Doulo , Keita Moussa , Lo Baidy , Tanner Marcel , Cissé Guéladio
Published: October 2011

L’urbanisation non maîtrisée des villes africaines en déficit de services de gestion des déchets urbains génère des paysages qui deviennent des lieux d’interactions multiples et variées entre santé et environnement. Soumise à une forte croissance urbaine dans un contexte de sous-équipement en services d’assainissement, la ville de Nouakchott n’échappe pas à cette situation qui se traduit par la propagation de nombreuses pathologies posant ainsi de multiples problèmes de santé publique. Afin d’étudier les risques sanitaires auxquels s’exposent les populations, une enquête transversale a été menée en août 2004 auprès de 836 ménages dans trois quartiers de la ville. Les résultats de l’étude montrent les principaux problèmes de santé (syndrome du paludisme, syndrome de l’appareil respiratoire, syndrome l’appareil digestif) ressentis par les populations tout en mettant en évidence la prévalence des maladies les plus récurrentes dont les infections respiratoires aiguës (28,0 %) et les diarrhées (17,2 %) ainsi que les facteurs environnementaux d’exposition aux risques sanitaires. Ainsi, l’importance des maladies hygiéniques dans la morbidité globale montre que la ville présente des conditions écologiques favorables au développement de la pathologie urbaine. Le poids déterminant des conditions environnementales dans l’occurrence de ces pathologies permet de conforter les conceptions sur les liens entre santé et environnement. Par ailleurs, ces interactions traduisent l’incidence de la pauvreté urbaine très marquée dans les quartiers étudiés. Ces résultats appellent à une approche intégrée des questions de santé, d’environnement et de pauvreté dans les politiques de développement des villes.
L’alimentation des sociétés urbaines : une cure de jouvence pour l’agriculture des territoires métropolitains ?
Authors: Brand Caroline , Bonnefoy Serge
Published: October 2011

Cet article se propose d’aborder la question du rôle de l’agriculture urbaine et périurbaine par rapport à l’émergence d’une nouvelle demande sociale concernant l’alimentation. Nous nous interrogeons sur le nouveau liant que l’alimentation des sociétés urbaines pourrait constituer dans le cadre des rapports entre ville et agriculture. Depuis la Seconde Guerre mondiale, l’alimentation des sociétés des pays industrialisés a connu des évolutions profondes et rapides qui ont reconfiguré les rapports au territoire. On observe ainsi un mouvement de balancier entre déterritorialisation et reterritorialisation qui semble actuellement se faire au profit du second. Face à une demande sociale en émergence qui se traduit dans la métropole par un mélange complexe de saveurs territoriales, nous étudions comment la question alimentaire se hisse à l’agenda des collectivités territoriales dans les politiques agricoles périurbaines des agglomérations membres du réseau Terres en Villes. Si cette mise à l’agenda se fait essentiellement pour l’instant par une entrée agricole, nous mettons en avant la façon dont l’alimentation pourrait constituer un levier d’interpellation des politiques d’aménagement dans le cadre de la gestion territoriale de régions urbaines « à vivre ». Ainsi, on observe les prémices d’une émergence de politiques alimentaires, dépassant les seules politiques de circuit-court, créant des liens avec des sphères d’acteurs autres que celles du monde agricole, pouvant se retrouver autour de la question alimentaire pour s’engager dans la construction de territoires métropolitains.
Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm and Bicuspid Aortic Valve: Detection and Mechanism by Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Looi Jen Li , Kerr Andrew J.
Published: October 2011

Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) demonstrated a sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (SVA) with severe dilatation of the right coronary sinus in association with a congenital bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) and subaortic membrane. The SVA had not been apparent on echocardiography as the dilatation was outside standard echo image planes. On both CMR and echo, blood flow was eccentrically directed into the right coronary sinus by the domed posterior leaflet of the BAV. The impact of the aortic jet on the wall of the right coronary sinus is probably important in the aetiology of the sinus dilatation. CMR proved valuable in demonstrating the SVA and understanding its aetiology.
Distributed versus Massed Training: Efficiency of Training Psychomotor Skills
Authors: van Dongen Koen , Mitra Peter , Schijven Marlies , Broeders Ivo
Published: October 2011

Virtual reality simulators have shown to be valid and useful tools for training psychomotor skills for endoscopic surgery. Discussion arises how to integrate these simulators into the surgical training curriculum. Distributed training is referred to as short training periods, with rest periods in between. Massed training is training in continuous and longer training blocks. This study investigates the difference between distributed and massed training on the initial development and retention of psychomotor skills on a virtual reality simulator. Four groups of eight medical students lacking any experience in endoscopic training were created. Two groups trained in a distributed fashion, one group trained in a massed fashion and the last group not at all (control group). All performed a post-test immediately after finishing their training schedule. Two months after this test a second post- test was performed. The one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Post-Hoc test Tukey-Bonferoni was used to determine differences in mean scores between the four groups, whereas a p-value ≤ 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Distributed training resulted in higher scores and a better retention of relevant psychomotor skills. Distributed as well as massed training resulted in better scores and retention of skills than no training at all. Our study clearly shows that distributed training yields better results in psychomotor endoscopic skills. Therefore, in order to train as efficient as possible, training programs should be (re)-programmed accordingly.
Volume of sputum to detect acid-fast bacilli as a measure of quality for the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis at the Dr George Mukhari Hospital, South Africa
Authors: Rashid Iqbal , Mabuza Langalibalele H. , Govender Indiran , Pretorius Deidre
Published: October 2011

Background: Optimum sputum results for acid-fast bacilli (AFB) microscopy are linked to a sputum quantity of at least 5.0 mL. This study was aimed at establishing the effect of sputum quantity in the pick-up rate of AFB microscopy by comparing sputum samples of 5.0 mL and 2.0 mL.Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was carried out at the Dr George Mukhari Hospital (DGMH) in Pretoria, South Africa, from 05 January 2007 to 04 January 2008.Two sputum samples, 5.0 mL and 2.0 mL, were collected from each of the 330 adult PTB (pulmonary tuberculosis) suspects. Fluorescence microscopy was used in the sputum analysis. The yield through microscopy of the 2.0 mL specimen versus the 5.0 mL specimen was compared and analysed, using culture results as the gold standard.Results: From a sample of 330 specimens, 77 tested AFB positive on microscopy. In the 5.0 mL samples, the sensitivity was 76.6% (95% CI, 66.0% – 84.7%), specificity 99.6% (95% CI 97.8% – 99.9%), positive predictive value (PV+) 98.3% (95% CI 91.1% – 99.7%), negative predictive value (PV-) 93.3% (95% CI 89.7% – 95.7%), the likelihood ratio (LR) for a positive microscopy 192 and the LR for a negative test was 0.23. In the 2.0 mL specimens, the sensitivity was 75.3% (95% CI 64.6% – 83.6%), specificity 99.2% (95% CI 97.1% – 99.8%), positive predictive value (PV+) 96.7% (95% CI 88.6% – 99.1%), negative predictive value (PV-) 93.0% (95% CI 89.3% – 95.4%), the LR for a positive microscopy was 94 and 0.25 for a negative microscopy. There was a statistically significant association (p-value < 0.001) between the microscopy and culture tests in both the 5.0 mL and the 2.0 mL specimen categories. The strength of association between the microscopy and culture, as indicated by the kappa test was 0.83 and 0.81 in the 5.0 mL and 2.0 mL categories, respectively.Conclusion: Compared to the 2.0 mL specimen category, the yield for AFB microscopy in the 5.0 mL specimen category was consistently superior, as indicated by the higher sensitivity, specificity, predictive values and the likelihood ratios in the 5.0 mL specimen category. It is recommended that sputum specimen collection for AFB microscopy should aim for a minimum volume of 5.0 mL.