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Using 49 years of General Social Survey data (1972–2021), we investigate the relationship between individual happiness and support for government environmental expenditure. Contrary to expectations, we find a negative correlation between higher levels of happiness and support for environmental spending. Employing various methods to address endogeneity, including bivariate probit and instrumental variable approaches, we uncover a non-linear relationship where individuals with greater life satisfaction are less likely to support government environmental expenditure. We also find that tax morale serves as a moderating factor in this relationship. We validate these findings using World Values Survey data from over a hundred countries. Our results challenge conventional assumptions about the link between personal well-being and environmental policy attitudes. This unexpected relationship suggests that policymakers should develop targeted strategies to engage happier individuals (especially those with low tax morale) in supporting environmental measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

This article discusses a transcriptomic analysis of one patient with lupus skin lesions who was treated with anifrolumab. Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause skin lesions, and conventional therapies may not always be effective. Anifrolumab is a new drug that targets type I interferons, which play a role in the pathogenesis of lupus. The study found that treatment with anifrolumab resulted in a decrease in inflammatory pathways and a shift towards a healthier transcriptional landscape. This research highlights the importance of targeting the type I interferon pathway in the treatment of lupus. [Extracted from the article] more...

Although many contributions examine how individuals and various entities (e.g., organizations and countries) manage to obtain a (competitive) advantage, there is a knowledge gap on how to make the best of disadvantages. Using notably the theories of self‐enhancement and psychological reactance, the existing literature has explained the mechanisms that can motivate and support an entity to get out from a disadvantageous position. We go further by addressing the "how" issues. We conceptualize disadvantages and adopt a provocative stance by showing how they can be transformed into valuable opportunities. Specifically, we document how being disadvantaged may be a driver of compensatory behaviors, effectual thinking, and innovation and serves as an emotional bond and in‐group marker. We also draw managerial and policy implications that offer a refreshing view on how to take advantage of disadvantages, such as changing the non‐market context and promoting the disadvantage as a market differentiation factor. As a caveat, adopting this stance should not be interpreted as a catch‐all solution that exonerates stakeholders from doing their part in providing support to disadvantaged entities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Well-intentioned university social responsibility (USR) initiatives are increasingly being implemented in higher education organizations. Nevertheless, these initiatives can sometimes backfire and undermine USR goals. We explore four mechanisms for this possible 'dark side' of USR: moral licensing, contamination by association, resistance from key agents and diverting attention and resources. We develop behaviorally inspired solutions to mitigate this risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

This article presents the findings of a study on the treatment of Kaposi sarcoma (KS), a type of cancer that primarily affects the skin and mucous membranes. The study analyzed the effectiveness and safety of different treatment regimens for KS. The results showed that liposomal doxorubicin (LD), paclitaxel, and low-dose interferon (LDI) were all effective treatments for KS. However, LDI had a lower response rate compared to paclitaxel, and a similar trend was observed when comparing LDI to LD. The study also found that the subtype of KS, age at treatment initiation, and systemic involvement did not significantly affect treatment response. The study highlighted the importance of head-to-head trials to further evaluate these treatments and emphasized the poor prognosis associated with ulcerated lesions and systemic localization at diagnosis. Additionally, the study found that response rates to treatment decreased with successive lines of treatment in endemic KS (EKS) compared to classic KS (CKS), indicating the more aggressive nature of EKS. The study was limited by its retrospective design. [Extracted from the article] more...

The molecular profiling of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is a helpful tool not only in cancer treatment, but also in the early detection of relapse. However, the clinical interpretation of a ctDNA negative result remains challenging. The characterization of circulating nucleosomes (carrying cell-free DNA) and associated epigenetic modifications (playing a key role in the tumorigenesis of different cancers) may provide useful information for patient management, by supporting the contributive value of ctDNA molecular profiling. Significantly elevated concentrations of H3K27Me3 nucleosomes were found in plasmas at the diagnosis, and during the follow-up, of NSCLC patients, compared to healthy donors (p-value < 0.0001). By combining the H3K27Me3 level and the ctDNA molecular profile, we found that 25.5% of the patients had H3K27Me3 levels above the cut off, and no somatic alteration was detected at diagnosis. This strongly supports the presence of non-mutated ctDNA in the corresponding plasma. During the patient follow-up, a high H3K27Me3-nucleosome level was found in 15.1% of the sample, despite no somatic mutations being detected, allowing the identification of disease progression from 43.1% to 58.2% over molecular profiling alone. Measuring H3K27Me3-nucleosome levels in combination with ctDNA molecular profiling may improve confidence in the negative molecular result for cfDNA in lung cancer at diagnosis, and may also be a promising biomarker for molecular residual disease (MRD) monitoring, during and/or after treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

To fight fare evasion, Public Transport Companies (PTC) mainly use two strategies: increasing inspection to detect fare evaders and enforcing fines incurred in case of being caught. PTC communicate differently on sanctions and inspection probabilities. Little is known about the effects of such a communication on fare evasion. Using a survey-based experiment, we examine experimentally what information (fine or inspection rate) and what framing of that information (minimum, maximum, average and range) can better refrain people from travelling irregularly on public transports. We found relatively high levels of fare evasion intentions and results on deterrence consistent with the existing literature. We showed that participants are not sensitive to the content of the information delivered nor to its framing when considering to fare evade or not. We found that beliefs about the pervasiveness of fare evasion (e.g., the social norm) seems to be the main determinant to fare evade. • We investigate the impact of anti-fare evasion communication on participants' propensity to fare evade. • We manipulate both the content of the message and the framing of the message. • We find no effect of both the content of the message nor its framing on participants' propensity to fare evade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

We blend the institutional and social identity theories to explain why foreign companies may endure a differentiated treatment compared to domestic ones. We extend the "liability of foreignness" (LOF) reasoning to the moral domain. Using a survey experiment in Algeria and France, we examine whether observers judge similarly or differently the same ethical and unethical practices by manipulating the doers' origin. Each treatment corresponds to a specific combination of company behavior (ethical vs. unethical) and company origin (no origin mentioned vs. domestic origin vs. foreign origin). We found that company origin matters for the ethical and some unethical scenarios. However, the foreignness consequences in the moral domain are not always consistent with a simplistic application of LOF-based arguments, leading us to consider a more complex picture than initially expected. In the Algerian sample, we found that foreign companies can even benefit from an advantage compared to domestic ones. JEL CLASSIFICATION F23; C91 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Building on previous literature on corporate behavior, we examine the impact of an nongovernmental organization's (NGO) foreign status on the moral judgment of its actions in a host country. Individuals in Algeria (N = 450) rated the ethicality of analogous ethical and unethical actions of domestic (Algerian) and foreign NGOs (European). For ethical actions, a foreign NGO was considered less positively than a local NGO for two scenarios out of three. For unethical actions, a foreign NGO was judged more severely in one scenario only. These results suggest that foreign status can influence moral judgment in a way that is consistent with liability-of-foreignness effect predictions. A foreign-sounding denomination can put an NGO at a relative disadvantage compared with its domestic counterpart. Consequently, the denomination choice should be carefully examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Punishment menus allow offenders to choose the punishment to which they will be subjected from a set of options. We present several behaviorally informed rationales for why punishment menus may serve as effective deterrents, notably by causing people to refrain from entering a calculative mindset; reducing their psychological reactance; causing them to reconsider the reputational impacts of punishment; and reducing suspicions about whether the act is enforced for rent‐seeking purposes. We argue that punishment menus can outperform the traditional single punishment if these effects can be harnessed properly. Our observations thus constitute a challenge, based on behavioral arguments, to the conventional view that adding (possibly unexercised) punishment options to an existing punishment scheme is unlikely to increase deterrence or welfare. We explain how heterogeneities among individuals can pose problems to designing effective punishment menus and discuss potential solutions. After explaining how punishment menus, if designed and implemented benevolently, can serve socially desirable goals, we caution against their possible misuse by self‐interested governments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Adolescence is defined as the period extending from puberty to adulthood, the limit of which is difficult to determine. It is a delicate period, in which the distancing from one's own body image can have deleterious consequences on psychological development and social-emotional life. Breast hypertrophy and the correction of hypertrophic tuberous breasts in adolescents raise some questions that we will attempt to answer in this article. There are specificities to manage, in relation to surgical indications, resection volume, postoperative follow-up and cutaneous healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Using the lens of behavioral economics, we analyze recurrent elements used in anti-piracy messages: statistics on infringements, quantifications of economic losses caused by piracy, and a mix of strong and weak arguments. We argue that the more-is-better heuristic used in these messages can generate counterproductive outcomes because of the statistical victim bias, the scope severity paradox, the social norm trap, and the excessive number of arguments. While "the higher the numbers, the more convincing they are" seems appealing, we show that this logic is flawed and can be detrimental for the attainment of the desired objectives. We propose to design messages based on the homo heuristicus perspective, which activate and channel automatic processes in human beings toward desirable directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

We posit that, once scandals become unavoidable, they can be considered for transformation into opportunities for research institutions, scientific communities and science regulators to implement in-depth changes and policies they would otherwise oppose. Research institutions and scientific communities can take advantage of scandals by participating proactively in constructing their consequences. We develop four mechanisms by which scandals can be used to bring positive change in research institutions and scientific communities. These are nullifying the high-status protection of almost untouchable researchers, 'resetting' the system that was conducive to scandals, changing the reference point upon which the entity is judged to emphasize progress and offering a learning opportunity to involved parties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Our study aimed to evaluate the social deprivation score in families with a child with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) and analyze its impact on the occurrence of obesity in the affected child. We included 147 children with PWS followed in our reference center with Evaluation of the Deprivation and Inequalities of Health in Healthcare Centres by the EPICES score. Deprivation (EPICES ≥ 30) was found in 25.9% of the population. Compared with the non-obese children, children with obesity had more deprived families, 50.0 vs. 18.0% (p = 0.0001); were older, with a median of 10.1 vs. 6.0 years (p = 0.0006); were less frequently treated with growth hormone (GH), 80.6 vs. 91.9% (p = 0.07). The mothers of obese children were more frequently obese, 46.9 vs. 13.3% (p < 0.0001), and achieved high study levels less frequently (≥Bac+2), 40.9 vs. 70.1% (p = 0.012). The multivariate logistic regression indicated that age, living in a deprived family, and having a mother with overweight/obesity were significantly associated with an increased risk of obesity (respectively, OR = 3.31 (1.26–8.73) and OR = 6.76 (2.36–19.37)). The same risk factors of obesity observed in the general population were found in children with PWS. Families at risk, including social deprivation, will require early identification and a reinforced approach to prevent obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Objectives: Ultrasound (US) measurements of diaphragmatic excursion (DE) are widely used to provide a non-invasive assessment of the diaphragmatic function at the bedside, especially in intensive care. However, this measurement has never been validated against a less operator-dependent technique such as MRI. Dynamic MRI is the only imaging modality that creates a four-dimensional reconstruction of the diaphragm. The primary objective of this study was to assess the agreement between DE obtained using dynamic MRI with those obtained using ultrasound. The secondary objectives were to define DE thresholds for the diagnosis of DD using MRI and to compare the performance of US and MRI to diagnose DD. Methods: Prospective single-center study in which consecutive outpatients referred for a dynamic thoracic MRI were included. This study was conducted at a university hospital in Paris, where there was daily access to ultrasound (US) and extensive expertise in diaphragmatic MRI The DE of each hemi-diaphragm was measured sequentially using ultrasound and MRI in random order, during spontaneous breathing (SB) and forced inspiration (FI) by independent observers blinded to each other. We analyzed the agreement between DE obtained using US and MRI for each hemi-diaphragm. Results: We enrolled forty-five patients, aged 58 ± 36 years, of which twenty-eight (68%) had a confirmed DD. During SB, the mean bias for DE measurement was −3.8 mm, 95% CI [−7.1; −0.6] for the left hemi-diaphragm, and 1.0 mm, 95% CI [−3.5; 5.5] for the right hemi-diaphragm. Limits of agreement (millimeters) were [−25; 17] on the left side, and [−28; 30] on the right side. MRI threshold values for DE defining dysfunction were 11 mm for quiet SB, and 38 mm for FI. These thresholds had a sensitivity of 77.7% and a specificity of 77.4% during SB, with an AUC of 0.86. Conclusion: US and MRI provide different values for DE, probably because the measurements were not obtained exactly at the same localization. Nevertheless, diagnostic performances of MRI and US to recognize DD appeared comparable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The glass optical basicity (Λ) is an adequate way of representing a glass composition that has been successfully applied for glasses made under ambient pressure conditions. However, we do not know if the proposed calculation based on the glass structure and the proposed measurement involving the determination of glass refractive index can apply to glasses made under high‐pressure conditions. We studied several aluminoborosilicate glass compositions synthesized under high‐pressure conditions up to 3 GPa and 1250°C. Recovered glasses were characterized to determine the refractive index (nD) and the density (ρ). The glass structure was determined using 11B and 27Al nuclear magnetic resonance. Increasing pressure up to 3 GPa increases nD and ρ for the studied glasses. Change in the glass structure is consistent with previous studies showing an increase in Al coordination, especially for Ca‐bearing glass composition; and an increase in the proportion of BO4 species. The glass optical basicity decreases with increasing pressure. From the structural changes, Λ decreases by ∼2% from ambient to 1 GPa in pressure for the investigated glass compositions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Determining risk factors for developing systemic lupus erythematosus in patients with discoid lupus erythematosus. RNA sequencing was performed on cutaneous biopsies from lesional skin, both before ( I n i = 1) and after 1 month ( I n i = 1) of treatment with upadacitinib, and was compared with RNA-sequencing data obtained from healthy controls (HC, I n i = 3). We would like to thank Remulus Catana for his valuable advices on data analysis and the patient for accepting to be part of this study. [Extracted from the article] more...

SUMMARY Scandals are pervasive in many areas of society. We propose a characterization of scandals that explicitly considers their potential benefits to transgressors. Although scandals are frequently considered to be undesirable to the targets or transgressors implicated, we develop four rationales by which a scandal can actually be beneficial to them. First, a scandal can propel an individual, organization or cause into the limelight and generate low‐cost publicity that can serve the target's interest, e.g., by increasing the visibility and salience of a particular issue or providing them a platform to spin the scandal with the megaphone of mass media coverage. Second, a scandal target can choose to play the role of altruistic or self‐seeking scapegoat. Third, a scandal target can use a scandal as a smokescreen to divert attention from other more serious issues. Fourth, a scandal can serve as a way to disadvantage competitors or rivals. For each rationale, we suggest some conditions of its success. Anecdotal evidence and real‐world examples are also provided to illustrate and support these rationales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

La périartérite noueuse (PAN) est une vascularite systémique rare. Les manifestations cutanées sont habituellement au premier plan et sont souvent réfractaires ou récidivantes malgré l'utilisation de corticoïdes oraux et d'immunosuppresseurs conventionnels. Après cinq ans d'évolution, la maladie est toujours active chez près de 40 % des patients. L'IL-6 est une cytokine pro-inflammatoire dont les taux sériques sont élevés chez les patients atteints de PAN et pourrait être impliquée dans sa physiopathologie. Il existe cependant peu de données sur l'efficacité des anti-IL6 dans cette maladie. L'objectif de ce travail est de décrire l'efficacité et la tolérance du tocilizumab, un anti-IL-6, chez des patients atteints de PAN avec une atteinte cutanée réfractaire ou en rechute. Nous avons conduit une étude rétrospective multicentrique française. Étaient inclus des patients adultes atteints de PAN histologiquement prouvées, non secondaire au VHB, avec des manifestations cutanées et possiblement extra-cutanées traitées par tocilizumab. La rémission cutanée complète était définie cliniquement par la disparition des lésions cutanées et la rémission cutanée partielle par une amélioration des lésions sans réponse complète. Deux patients ont déjà été précédemment rapportés dans la littérature. Onze patients, dont 10 (91 %) femmes, ont été inclus entre mai 2020 et juin 2023. L'âge médian au diagnostic était de 47 [EIQ 39–52] ans. Les manifestations cutanées au diagnostic comprenant des nodules (64 %), du livedo (73 %) et du purpura (36 %). Parmi les atteintes extra-cutanées au diagnostic, sept (64 %) patients présentaient une mononeuropathie prouvée par électroneuromyogramme dont 6/7 (86 %) dans le territoire cutané concerné par les lésions de PAN, et un patient présentait un accident vasculaire cérébral ischémique. Le nombre médian de lignes de traitements systémiques reçues avant l'introduction du tocilizumab était de 3 [EIQ 2–4]. Le motif d'introduction du tocilizumab était l'absence de contrôle des lésions cutanées (10 patients, 91 %), neurologiques (6 patients, 55 %) et, ou articulaires (4 patients, 36 %). L'administration était intraveineuse pour 8 (73 %) patients et sous-cutanée pour 3 (27 %) en association aux corticoïdes oraux. Un autre imunosuppresseur était poursuivi pour 7 (64 %) patients (4 méthotrexate, 2 dapsone, 1 azathioprine). La durée médiane de suivi après l'introduction du tocilizumab était de 14 [EIQ 11–25] mois. Deux (18 %) patients présentaient une réponse complète, et 8 (73 %) une réponse partielle. La réponse était atteinte après une durée médiane de 3 [1–3] mois après l'introduction du tocizilizumab. Le score d'activité vascularitique (Birmingham Vasculatis Activity Index), la CRP, ainsi que la dose quotidienne de corticoïdes diminuaient dès 3 mois de traitement, de façon prolongée à 12 mois. L'évolution de ces paramètres et de l'atteinte cutanée est représentée dans la Figure. Les corticoïdes ont pu être arrêtés chez un (9 %) patient et les immunosuppresseurs associés chez 3 (43 %) patients. Durant le traitement, 4 (36 %) patients ont présenté des poussées de PAN, incluant des manifestations cutanées chez tous et une récidive d'accident vasculaire cérébral ischémique chez un patient. Ces rechutes ont conduit à l'arrêt du tocilizumab chez 2 patients et au relais ou à l'addition d'un autre immunosuppresseur chez tous. Une réaction locale et une neutropénie non compliquée étaient rapportées. Aucun effet indésirable sévère n'a été rapporté. Le tocilizumab a montré une efficacité rapide mais souvent partielle dans le traitement des manifestations cutanées de PAN réfractaires. L'utilisation des anti-IL6 dans la PAN semble donc une alternative thérapeutique intéressante chez des patients réfractaires en échappement aux traitements conventionnels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Health messaging interventions frequently make three well-intentioned but mistaken choices in their communications strategies. To increase their persuasiveness, these messages frequently call attention to the greatest possible numbers of people engaging in undesirable behavior, victims of this behavior, and reasons why one should change the behavior. We raise recent research suggesting how and why the intuitively attractive more-is-better heuristic can be unproductive, and suggest ways to overcome these pitfalls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Le pectus excavatum affecte environ une personne sur 500 : c'est la malformation du thorax la plus fréquente. Plusieurs techniques chirurgicales ou médicales ont été proposées. Certaines peuvent entraîner des complications ou des résultats insuffisants. La chirurgie secondaire du pectus excavatum par implants profonds sur mesure 3D est une solution élégante et efficace. Elle permet d'obtenir le bon résultat esthétique attendu par les patients en l'absence de contexte fonctionnel respiratoire ou cardiovasculaire. The pectus excavatum affects about one in 500 people. It is the most common malformation of the thorax. Several surgical or medical techniques have been proposed. Some are followed by complications or insufficient results. Secondary surgery with a deep customized 3D implant, may be an elegant and effective solution; it allows to obtain a good aesthetic result expected by patients in the absence of any respiratory or cardiovascular functional context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Does inflation affect CO2 emissions? Surprisingly, this crucial relationship has not benefited from enough academic attention. As a result, we fill this knowledge gap and examine conceptually and empirically the effect of inflation on CO2 emissions over a large sample of countries (N = 189) and a 50-year period (1970–2020). More precisely, we run fixed effects regressions and panel cointegration tests. We find a modest, but significant negative relationship between core inflation and CO2 emissions per capita. The effect is also present for total CO2 emissions. Nevertheless, this effect is too weak to reach recommended CO2 emission reductions. Ceteris paribus, a 10-percentage points increase of core inflation over a 5-year span leads, on average, to a reduction of CO2 emissions per capita by roughly 0.36. This implies that other policies are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

When there was randomization from week 0, re--randomization or crossover design in any of the three arms, patients in the intervention arm and the active comparator arm either received the same treatment dose as during the induction period and/or a different dose or were "withdrawn or re-treated as needed"; and patients in the placebo arm received two different intervention doses (i.e. more than one placebo arm) or were "withdrawn or re-treated as needed". Https://doi.org/10.1093/bjd/ljac142 Dear Editor, Psoriasis is a common and chronic inflammatory skin disease.[1] Currently, 12 biologic drugs are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to treat moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis (Pso).[2] Many network meta-analyses have provided comparative effectiveness and safety data on these treatments over a short time (between 8 and 24 weeks).[[3], [5]] However, long-term data are highly needed considering the chronic nature of psoriasis, which requires long-term treatments. [Extracted from the article] more...

Highlights • Proposed mini-Nakazima fracture experiment with dihedral punch. • Observed proportional loading path until fracture initiation. • Compared results with notched tension and V-bending. • Validated for aluminum 2024-T351, DP450, DP980. Abstract A new experimental technique is proposed for measuring the strain to fracture for sheet metal after proportional loading under plane strain conditions. The proposed technique makes use of a mini-Nakazima specimen that is clamped onto a 30 mm diameter die and subjected to out-of-plane loading through a dihedral punch. While other techniques for determining the strain to fracture for plane strain tension loading (e.g. notched tension or V-bending) suffer from limitations with regards to the thickness and ductility of the material to be characterized, the mini-Nakazima experiments are more robust and universally applicable. Experiments are performed on mini-Nakazima, notched tension and V-bending specimens extracted from 1.2 mm thick aluminum 2024-T351, 0.8 mm thick DP450 and 1.6 mm thick DP980 steel. In addition, detailed numerical simulations are performed for each experiment. The hybrid experimental-numerical results show the limitations of existing experimental techniques and demonstrate the reliability of the proposed stretch-bending technique. As a by-product, it is shown that the Yld2000-3D yield function with associated flow rule provides a reasonably accurate description of the large deformation response of aluminum 2024-T351. Equally good predictions are obtained for the DP450 and DP980 steels when using a von Mises yield function in conjunction with a non-associated Hill'48 flow rule. Furthermore, to characterize the effects of the stress triaxiality and the Lode angle parameter on the fracture response of the above materials, the strains to fracture are determined for simple shear and equi-biaxial tension. Graphical abstract Image, graphical abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Objectives: The Fragility Index, which represents the number of patients responsible for a statistically significant finding, has been suggested as an aid for interpreting the robustness of results from clinical trials. A small Fragility Index indicates that the statistical significance of a trial depends on only a few events. Our objectives were to calculate the Fragility Index of statistically significant results from randomized controlled trials of anesthesia and critical care interventions and to determine the frequency of distorted presentation of results or "spin".Data Sources: We systematically searched MEDLINE from January 01, 2007, to February 22, 2017, to identify randomized controlled trials exploring the effect of critical care medicine or anesthesia interventions.Study Selection: Studies were included if they randomized patients 1:1 into two parallel arms and reported at least one statistically significant (p < 0.05) binary outcome (primary or secondary).Data Extraction: Two reviewers independently assessed eligibility and extracted data. The Fragility Index was determined for the chosen outcome. We assessed the level of spin in negative trials and the presence of recommendations for clinical practice in positive trials.Data Synthesis: We identified 166 eligible randomized controlled trials with a median sample size of 207 patients (interquartile range, 109-497). The median Fragility Index was 3 (interquartile range, 1-7), which means that adding three events to one of the trials treatment arms eliminated its statistical significance. High spin was identified in 42% (n = 30) of negative randomized controlled trials, whereas 21% (n = 20) of positive randomized controlled trials provided recommendations. Lower levels of spin and recommendations were associated with publication in journals with high impact factors (p < 0.001 for both).Conclusions: Statistically significant results in anesthesia and critical care randomized controlled trials are often fragile, and study conclusions are frequently affected by spin. Routine calculation of the Fragility Index in medical literature may allow for better understanding of trials and therefore enhance the quality of reporting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Summary: We propose that words can be an object of systematic study in the field of economics and outline an approach to the study of word choice in behavioral economics. We consider words as strategic instruments of influence and review how they can impact behaviors in several subtle and distinctive ways, namely through their capacity to elicit affect, support identity and social belonging, evoke linguistic associations, and generate bias arising from variations in fluency. We provide a variety of examples to illustrate the behavioral impacts of words through these mechanisms and provide practical recommendations regarding how words can be harnessed by policymakers to reach socially desirable goals through a consideration of how word‐related behavioral anomalies shape incentives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Numerous studies showed that people respond more generously to individual identified victims than to equivalent statistical victims, which is referred to as the “identifiable victim effect” (IVE). While the previous literature examined the IVE for human and animal victims, we focus on vegetal entities that can be threatened. Thanks to a between design allowing to increase the degree of plants' identifiability, we test whether IVE is likely to enhance farmers' participation in a conservation program, using mail survey data among a sample of French farmers located in the Vaucluse area. Unlike humans and animals, we found that IVE does not matter regarding plants, as farmer willingness to participate in the compensation measures was found to decrease as the (plant) victim(s) become more identifiable. Moreover, this figure is even stronger with respect to organic farmers compared to their conventional counterparts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Abstract: An extensive series of compression tests with birch plywood specimens is conducted in the out‐of‐plane direction. Various experimental conditions are tested with different temperatures and strain rates. To this end, a specially designed Split Hopkinson pressure bar protocol is defined, and the specimen dimensions are validated from quasi‐static EN789 standards experiments. Temperatures are ranging from ambient down to −170°C, while strain rates are increased from 0.004/s up to 700/s. The analysis of the experimental results focuses on the hardening behaviour and the following densification regime at large strains. Evolution with temperature and strain rate of the four coefficients of the stress versus strain curve interpolation is discussed, and models are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Pollution is frequently "rationalized" by involved firms as a necessary bad to reach economic or social goals. Unfortunately, little is known about how external observers form moral judgment when confronted to such a dual output, precisely an economic or social gain (e.g., profits, job preservation) and an environmental harm. Using two experimental surveys, we fill this gap by inviting participants to judge the morality of two companies engaging in the same environmental wrongdoings (river pollution and deforestation) while varying the generated monetary gain. In the preliminary study, individuals perceive environmental degradations generating higher profits for the firm as more morally acceptable. In the main study, we used a multiple-item measure of behavioral intentions towards the firm and we analyzed potential moderating effects. The results are threefold: (i) the attitude towards the firm improves as the profit obtained by the firm increases, up to a tipping point; (ii) when the profit gained by the firm increases, environmentally-unconcerned (resp. concerned) individuals display more positive (resp. negative) attitude towards the firm; (iii) respondents thinking that the firm main objective should be only about profit and not social well-being express a more lenient judgment. We draw several policy and managerial implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Corrosion product layers formed on mild steel coupons after 6 years of permanent immersion at shallow depth in marine sediments were characterized by X-ray diffraction and μ-Raman spectroscopy. They proved mainly composed of FeS which testifies for an intense sulfate-reducing bacteria activity. Other identified compounds were siderite FeCO 3 and four varieties of green rust associated with local variations of composition of the environment. The corrosion rates determined by residual thickness measurements were higher on the lower half of the coupons (average 40 μm/yr, local maximum 140 μm/yr) and smaller on the upper half, suggesting that differential aeration effects took place. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

In light of the growing attention that social norm interventions have garnered as policy tools, we review the current body of evidence on their effectiveness with respect to pro-environmental behaviors. We identify the various conceptualizations of social norms currently in use and inventory the experimental economics and social psychology literature that has examined the impacts of social norm interventions on pro-environmental behavior. For each study included in this inventory, we note several contextual features, the data collection and analytical methods used, and any significant main effects attributed to the social norm intervention. We also review several theoretical models of behavior that incorporate social norms. Based on this empirical and theoretical review, we draw a number of policy implications and identify avenues for future research on the role of social norms with respect to pro-environmental behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

New conjugated materials, based on the triphenylamine- thiophene moiety and integrating azomethine bonds with a dibenzofuran unit or a cyanovinyl bond with a phenylthiophene or bithiophene unit, have been synthesized by using a wide range of green reactions such as direct heteroarylation coupling reactions, Knoevenagel and Schiff-base condensations and Stille cross-coupling reactions using ionic-liquid-supported thiophenylstannane. The electronic properties of the new molecules were analyzed by UV/Vis spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry. The potential use of the molecules as donor materials for photovoltaic conversion were evaluated in simple bilayer solar cells using C60 as the acceptor material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

We examine whether and how word choice can affect individual perceptions about a proposed Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES) program when objective outcomes are similar. From a traditional economic perspective, this type of manipulation would be considered unlikely to affect perceptions and behaviour, especially in the presence of pecuniary incentives and repeated decisions among sophisticated agents. From a behaviourally informed perspective, however, psychological and political theories of wording argue that word choice can have a significant impact on economic behaviour. To substantiate this discussion, we conduct a survey experiment that tests the impact of the words ‘payment’ and ‘compensation’ on favorability ratings of a proposed PES program. These preliminary findings suggest that the words used to describe public policies can be influential non-pecuniary interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

People in several countries are overwhelmed with green tips in order to encourage them protecting the environment. The effectiveness of these tips, however, highly depends on the context and the person targeted by the tips. In particular, we contend that some green tips may do more harm than good when individuals have cognitive and behavioral biases. Without purporting to be exhaustive, we explain some of these biases and mechanisms by which green tips may lead to a net environmental degradation. We also emphasize that it is possible to complement green tips with debiasing strategies to guarantee their performance. We present some of these strategies, notably the foot-in-the-door technique, commitment strategies, the strategic use of small changes and individuals' pursuit of identity. Finally, several policy implications are developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

• Average stress versus local axial strain yields reasonable estimate of post-necking hardening response. • Demonstrated validity of stress–strain curve estimate through numerical simulations. • Performed uniaxial tension and bulge tests for experimental validation. • Stress–strain curve obtained from uniaxial tension experiments of DP780 steel for strains as high as 0.5. The exact stress–strain curve can be directly identified from uniaxial tension experiments up to the point of onset of diffuse necking. To gain insight into the post-necking hardening response of metals, other experimental methods such as the bulge, compression or torsion experiments are typically employed. Here, we introduce the idea of using surround DIC to obtain accurate specimen shape measurements of tensile specimens with rectangular gage section. Based on the results from a series of detailed three-dimensional finite element simulations of ASTM E8 type of uniaxial tension experiments on a wide spectrum of steel and aluminum behaviors, it is proposed to combine the history of the axial strain on the surface at the specimen center with the average axial stress to extract the stress–strain curve for strains of up to axial true strain of 1. The estimation uncertainty of this stress–strain curve estimation procedure is of the same order as that of the associated experimental uncertainties. This result is validated through an additional computational study for more than 100 distinct hardening behaviors. Furthermore, a surround DIC system composed of four stereo DIC systems is built and used to determine the stress–strain curve for a 1.5 mm thick DP780 steel. In addition, bulge experiments are performed on the same material revealing a good agreement of the post-necking hardening behavior determined through uniaxial and bulge testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Dendritic cells (DCs) are actively used as cellular adjuvant in cancer immunotherapy. However, although DC immunotherapies primarily target the elderly population, little is known about the effect of aging on DC functions. Here, we compared the T-cell stimulation, cytokine production, and tumor surveillance functions of bone marrow-derived CD11c(+)CD4(-)CD8alpha(-) DCs of old and young C57BL/6 mice. Old immature bone marrow-derived CD4(-)CD8alpha(-) DCs (imDCs) were 4 times less effective than were young DCs in stimulating syngeneic CD4(+) T-cell proliferation. Old imDCs also have decreased DC-specific/intracellular adhesion molecule type 3-grabbing, nonintegrin (DC-SIGN) expression compared to young DCs. Interestingly, mice treated with the ovalbumin peptide-pulsed young DCs exhibited significantly greater tumor regression than with ovalbumin peptide-pulsed old DCs. Old terminally differentiated bone marrow-derived DCs (tDC) also have increased interleukin-10, but decreased interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha production. Taken together, these results have important implications in the clinical application of DC-based tumor immunotherapy in elderly persons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Two push-pull molecules with close molecular structures have been synthesized through two green steps, direct heteroarylation and Knoevenagel condensation. The electronic properties and the basic bilayer heterojunction solar cells demonstrate that the two molecules are complementary in term of light absorption. Thus solar cells using a blend of the two molecules present higher power conversion efficiencies, reaching 3%, than the cells made from each compound alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Résumé Introduction La prise en charge des patients présentant des séquelles d’amaigrissement, parfois majeures, est de mieux en mieux codifiée. Cependant, cette chirurgie n’est pas dénuée de risques. Les complications des dermolipectomies abdominales circulaires sont plus fréquentes que celles des dermolipectomies abdominales antérieures. L’objectif de cette étude était d’évaluer la morbidité en rapport avec cette chirurgie au travers d’une étude rétrospective et monocentrique. Matériel et méthodes Cent onze dermolipectomies abdominales circulaires ont été réalisées entre juin 2011 et septembre 2015 dans le service de chirurgie plastique du CHU de Toulouse. Les complications mineures et majeures ont été répertoriées et analysées. Résultats La fréquence des complications postopératoires était de 44,1 % dans notre série. Les complications majeures ont concerné 15,3 % des patients. Les transfusions de culots globulaires (9 %) et les hématomes ayant nécessité une reprise chirurgicale (7,2 %) représentaient les complications majeures les plus fréquentes. Nous avons retrouvé significativement plus de complications majeures chez les patients avec une résection cutanéograisseuse importante avec un seuil de significativité à 3200 g ( p = 0,02). Les hommes présentaient significativement plus de complications majeures que les femmes ( p = 0,005). La moyenne du delta-IMC (avant et après amaigrissement) était significativement plus élevée dans le groupe de patients ayant présenté le plus de complications mineures ( p = 0,045). En effet, un delta-IMC élevé (supérieur à 19,5) était associé à un sur-risque de complications mineures dans notre population. Conclusion La démocratisation et les progrès réalisés dans le domaine de la dermolipectomie abdominale circulaire ne doivent pas faire oublier qu’il s’agit d’une intervention à risque. Même si nous maîtrisons de mieux en mieux les résultats cosmétiques et les complications thromboemboliques, il persiste encore de nombreuses complications. Summary Introduction The management of patients with weight loss sequelae, sometimes major, is increasingly well standardized. However, this surgery is not without risk. Complications of bodylift are more frequent than those of conventional abdominoplasties. The objective of this study was to evaluate the morbidity associated with this surgery through a retrospective, single-center study. Materials and methods One hundred and eleven circular abdominaloplasties were conducted between June 2011 and September 2015 in the plastic surgery department of the university hospital of Toulouse. Minor and major complications were identified and analyzed. Results Frequency of postoperative complications was 44.1% in our series. Major complications have involved 15.3% of patients. Blood transfusions (9%) and hematoma requiring reoperation (7.2%) were the most frequent major complications. We found significantly more major complications in patients with important fat resection with a cut off at 3200 g ( P = 0.02). Men experienced significantly more major complications than women ( P = 0.005). The average delta-BMI (before and after weight loss) was significantly higher in the group of patients with the highest percentage of minor complications ( P = 0.045). Indeed, a high delta-BMI (greater than 19.5) was associated with an excess risk of minor complications in our population. Conclusion Democratization and progress in the field of bodylift should not obscure the fact that it is, in reality, a procedure at risk. While we manage increasingly better cosmetic results and thromboembolic complications, it still persists many complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Corrosion product layers formed on carbon steel coupons after 6–8 years of permanent immersion in natural seawater were characterized by X-ray diffraction and μ-Raman spectroscopy. Some of the coupons showed blisters of corrosion products on a surface covered elsewhere by a much thinner layer. In anodic zones, the formation of the sulfate green rust proved to be favored at the expense of that of magnetite. In contrast, the formation of magnetite was favored in cathodic zones, together with that of aragonite and carbonated corrosion products. The galvanic effects are then self-sustaining via their influence on the corrosion products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Background The recent development of perforator flaps has changed the reconstructive strategy for common integumental defects and has refocused the attention of microsurgeons to donor site morbidity. We asked a representative panel of microsurgeons about the free flap they would use to cover a common integumental defect on their own body to investigate the best free-flap donor sites. Methods In total, 100 practitioners participated in the “FreeFlap4U” study, representing 77.3% of the French national plastic surgery teams practicing microsurgery. To assess changing attitudes, we also compared microsurgeons below 40 years of age (called junior microsurgeons, JMs) with those above 40 years of age (called senior microsurgeons, SMs). Results Perforator flaps were preferred for the first line (JMs) and second line (JMs and SMs) of treatment compared with other flaps. JMs emphasized lower donor site morbidity, whereas SMs favored reliability (p = 0.013) and considered perforator flaps as a second-line treatment. Radial forearm and transverse rectus abdominis flaps were largely dismissed due to high morbidity. Some microsurgeons were influenced by the potential secondary benefit of the integument sample at the donor site. Conclusions Microsurgeons interviewed clearly moved toward perforator flaps, such as the anterolateral thigh, thoracodorsal artery perforator, and superficial circumflex iliac artery types, to cover common integumental defects. In the coming years, we believe that this choice, emitted by the microsurgeons for themselves, will be applied extensively by these surgeons for their patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The economic literature has devoted relatively strong attention to eco-labelling schemes. Nevertheless, while succeeding in some markets, they often fall short of their promises. We analyse the gap between the academic design of eco-labelling schemes and their real implementation. We contend that providing information is not enough. We then use recent advances in behavioural economics to inform policy makers on the potential of behavioural interventions in order to design better eco-labelling schemes. Policy relevance Many public policies, including eco-labelling schemes, are still based on an inaccurate description of human decision making, mainly borrowed from standard economics. However, numerous psychological and behavioural studies show that people regularly behave in ways that contradict some standard assumptions of economic analysis. Departing from the conventional view that information-based policies such as eco-labelling schemes will quasi-automatically help mitigate issues such as climate change by guiding consumers' and firms decisions, we argue that information provision is necessary but not sufficient. Admitting that consumers' decisions are guided by factors other than price and information, and, taking systematically into account behavioural biases can offer to policy makers low-cost levers with first-order effects in order to increase the environmental performance of eco-labels, or at least decrease the likelihood of counterproductive effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Usually in the context of integrated control and real-time scheduling, quality of control improvement is mainly based on the dynamic measurement process and the system task scheduling parameters (i.e., sampling period, execution time). In this paper, a new feedback controller based on delay prediction is proposed to overcome the degradation of quality for multi-controller systems due to scheduling delays. A statistical analysis is performed to highlight the correlation between scheduling artifacts (delays and jitters) and quality of the control. It is stated that the input–output latency has a significant influence on the quality of control. Hence, it is proposed to reduce control impairments by using a prediction of the response time to update the output. A case study consisting of the control of three servo-motors is used to practically illustrate our statement. The consistency and effectiveness of the improvement are checked through the case of the control of three inverted pendulums. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Our experience in breast reconstruction confirms the significant importance of reconstructing the inframammary fold in achieving overall aesthetic satisfaction. We describe our technique for primary fixation of the inframammary fold in breast reconstruction using a thoracoabdominal advancement flap. This technique is suitable for patients with a vertical skin laxity of at least 5 cm in the future inframammary fold. Prior to the procedure, it requires preparation through physiotherapy, the use of adhesive external breast prosthesis, and skin expansion using an inflatable prosthesis in extreme cases. The surgical approach follows the existing mastectomy scar. After subfascial dissection of the thoracoabdominal advancement flap, the surgeon proceeds to create two separate rows of sutures. The first row mimics the deep attachment of the inframammary fold, fixing the superficial fascia of the flap to the rib periosteum. The second row mimics the superficial attachment of the inframammary fold, fixing the dermis of the flap to the rib periosteum. The main advantage of this technique is its applicability to all breast reconstruction programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

While the literature has notably focused on the meanings, conceptualizations, causes, consequences and solutions to greenwashing, we propose a counterintuitive perspective to fill a gap by considering whether and how greenwashing can be leveraged to transform greenwashers into green(er) performers. To address this issue, we overview the literature and use conceptual reasoning to develop four mechanisms by which greenwashers may be pushed toward more environmentally friendly trajectories that would not otherwise have been considered: (1) greenwashing raises awareness and normalizes greenness; (2) a greenwashing faux pas is instrumentalized to hold companies accountable by triggering an irreversible "ratchet effect" (enforcing consistency between discourse and actions without allowing a step backward); (3) greenwashing as an aspirational green talk that can constitute an important resource to inspire and drive change; and (4) the management of greenwashing by regulators allows them to advance their sustainability agenda, notably because of enforcement spillovers. A better understanding of these mechanisms can transform the way greenwashing is managed and help addressing environmental challenges. [Display omitted] • Greenwashing can be leveraged to transform greenwashers into green performers. • Greenwashing can raise awareness and normalize greenness. • Greenwashing can help to achieve consistency between firms' discourse and actions. • Greenwashing as an aspirational green talk can inspire and drive change. • Regulators can exploit enforcement spillovers to advance their sustainability agenda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Résumé Introduction L’objectif de ce travail était d’évaluer la qualité des publications en chirurgie plastique, reconstructrice et esthétique, en termes de méthodologie, de niveau de preuve, d’approbation par un comité institutionnel et selon le domaine de la spécialité. Méthodes Nous avons sélectionné les huit revues généralistes de chirurgie plastique les mieux cotées par leur facteur d’impact. Nous avons inclus les 40 dernières publications originales de chaque revue, afin de couvrir au moins deux mois de publications et être le plus représentatif possible. Seuls les articles originaux traitant de sujets humains vivants ont été sélectionnés. Chaque article a été analysé par deux relecteurs, en cas de désaccord un auteur senior prenait la décision. Résultats Nous avons analysé 320 articles originaux, couvrant entre 3 et 17 mois de publications. L’origine géographique de ces publications étaient l’Asie à 32,5 %, puis l’Europe à 30 %, les États-Unis à 28,4 %, l’Amérique du Sud à 5,6 %, l’Afrique à 2,5 % et enfin l’Océanie pour 1 %. La chirurgie reconstructrice au sens large reste le domaine de spécialité le plus représenté dans nos revues avec presque la moitié des publications, suivi par la chirurgie mammaire (24 %) et la chirurgie esthétique (19 %). Au total, 75,6 % étaient des études rétrospectives. Près de 80 % des études étaient de faible niveau de preuve (IV et V). Seulement 3,5 % étaient des essais randomisés. Moins de 40 % des publications mentionnaient la validation par un comité institutionnel, et 22,6 % un consentement éclairé du patient. Conclusion Cette étude avait pour but d’analyser la qualité des publications en chirurgie plastique en prenant en compte les critères de l’ evidence based medicine . Ce travail a mis en évidence que plus de la moitié des études ne mentionnaient pas l’aval d’un comité institutionnel (comité d’éthique, CPP), et que les trois quarts des études ne précisaient pas la présence d’un consentement éclairé. En définitive, plus de 80 % des études étaient de faible niveau de preuve. Les revues à fort impact factor ont déjà imposé des guidelines correspondant à la méthodologie requise pour publier des études cliniques dans leurs pages, tel que les critères EQUATOR pour le journal PRS. Des efforts restent donc à faire pour élever le niveau scientifique des publications de notre spécialité. Summary Introduction The objective of this study is to describe plastic surgery publications in terms of methodology, level of evidence, approval by institutional review board, method of consent, and subspecialty. Methods The 8 top-ranked plastic surgery journals were selected. We manually reviewed the last 40 original articles in each plastic surgery journal, to represent more than 2 months of publications for all journals (range: 3–17 months). Only clinical original articles on human subjects were included. Each article was read at least twice by two different reviewers to ensure accurate data transcription, and then graded by written criteria. One of the senior authors was asked to make a final decision in case of doubt. Results Among the articles reviewed, 320 were analyzed. The geographical origin of these publications were Asia (32.5%), Europe (30%), US (28.4%), South America (5.6%), Africa (2.5%), and finally Oceania (1%). Reconstructive surgery remains the specialty area most represented in the journals with almost half of the publications, followed by breast surgery (24%) and plastic surgery (19%). A total of 75.6% were retrospective studies. Nearly 80% of the studies were of low level of evidence. Only 3.5% were randomized trials. Less than 40% of the publications mentioned approval by an institutional committee, and 22.6% a patient's informed consent. Conclusion This study aimed to analyze the quality of plastic surgery publications, taking into account the criteria of Evidence Based Medicine. This work showed that more than half of the studies did not mention an institutional review board approval (Ethics Committee), and that three quarter of the studies did not indicate the presence of patient's informed consent. Ultimately, over 80% of the studies were of low level of evidence. The top-ranked journals have already imposed guidelines corresponding to the methodology requirements to publish clinical studies in their pages, such as EQUATOR criteria for the PRS journal. Efforts are therefore to be done to raise the scientific level of the publications of our specialty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Iodination of thiophene derivatives is realized using a simple, fast, and efficient methodology. Iodination of thiophene and 2- or 3- substituted or 3,4-disubstituted thiophenes with N-iodosuccinimide (NIS) activated with 4-toluenesulfonic acid in ethanol gives pure iodinated products that require no further purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...