bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unique Features of High-Density Lipoproteins in the Japanese: In Population and in Genetic Factors
Authors: Yokoyama Shinji
Published: April 2015

Despite its gradual increase in the past several decades, the prevalence of atherosclerotic vascular disease is low in Japan. This is largely attributed to difference in lifestyle, especially food and dietary habits, and it may be reflected in certain clinical parameters. Plasma high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels, a strong counter risk for atherosclerosis, are indeed high among the Japanese. Accordingly, lower HDL seems to contribute more to the development of coronary heart disease (CHD) than an increase in non-HDL lipoproteins at a population level in Japan. Interestingly, average HDL levels in Japan have increased further in the past two decades, and are markedly higher than in Western populations. The reasons and consequences for public health of this increase are still unknown. Simulation for the efficacy of raising HDL cholesterol predicts a decrease in CHD of 70% in Japan, greater than the extent by reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol predicted by simulation or achieved in a statin trial. On the other hand, a substantial portion of hyperalphalipoproteinemic population in Japan is accounted for by genetic deficiency of cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP), which is also commonly unique in East Asian populations. It is still controversial whether CETP mutations are antiatherogenic. Hepatic Schistosomiasis is proposed as a potential screening factor for historic accumulation of CETP deficiency in East Asia.
Hepatoprotective Effect of Herb Formula KIOM2012H against Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Park Hwayong , Hwang Youn-Hwan , Kim Dong-Gun , Jeon Jongwook , Ma Jin
Published: April 2015

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a hepatic ailment with a rapidly increasing incidence due to dietary hypernutrition and subsequent obesity. Fatty liver disease can lead to steatohepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even cancer, which is associated with various complications. Discovering effective natural materials and herbs can provide alternative and complementary medical treatments to current chemical pharmaceuticals. To develop an effective natural agent for NAFLD, we formulated a combination of four herb mixtures (KIOM2012H) and observed lipid-lowering efficacy. The inhibitory effects of KIOM2012H on free fatty acid-induced lipid accumulation, triglyceride contents, and gene expressions were analyzed in HepG2 cells. Using high fat diet-fed mice, body weight changes, gross liver appearances, hepatic triglyceride contents, and gene expressions were evaluated. KIOM2012H dose-dependently inhibited lipid accumulation and gene expressions involved in lipogenesis and related regulators. Experimental animals also showed a decrease in body weight changes and lipid-associated physiological parameters. This study shows that KIOM2012H has an alleviating effect on fatty acid and lipid accumulation, and therefore can be applied for development of new therapeutic pharmaceuticals for treatment of NAFLD using natural products and herbs.
Applications of Microencapsulated Bifidobacterium Longum with Eleutherine Americana in Fresh Milk Tofu and Pineapple Juice
Authors: Phoem Atchara , Chanthachum Suphitchaya , Voravuthikunchai Supayang
Published: April 2015

Bifidobacterium longum was microencapsulated by extrusion technique and added in fresh milk tofu and pineapple juice. Microencapsulation of B. longum with Eleutherine americana extract, oligosaccharides extract, and commercial fructo-oligosaccharides was assessed for the bacterial survival after sequential exposure to simulated gastric and intestinal juices, and refrigeration storage. Microencapsulated B. longum with the extract and oligosaccharides extract in the food products showed better survival than free cells under adverse conditions. Sensory analysis demonstrated that the products containing co-encapsulated bacterial cells were more acceptable by consumers than free cells. Pineapple juice prepared with co-encapsulated cells had lower values for over acidification, compared with the juice with free cells added. This work suggested that microencapsulated B. longum with E. americana could enhance functional properties of fresh milk tofu and pineapple juice.
Liposomal Conjugates for Drug Delivery to the Central Nervous System
Authors: Helm Frieder , Fricker Gert
Published: April 2015

Treatments of central nervous system (CNS) diseases often fail due to the blood–brain barrier. Circumvention of this obstacle is crucial for any systemic treatment of such diseases to be effective. One approach to transfer drugs into the brain is the use of colloidal carrier systems—amongst others, liposomes. A prerequisite for successful drug delivery by colloidal carriers to the brain is the modification of their surface, making them invisible to the reticuloendothelial system (RES) and to target them to specific surface epitopes at the blood–brain barrier. This study characterizes liposomes conjugated with cationized bovine serum albumin (cBSA) as transport vectors in vitro in porcine brain capillary endothelial cells (PBCEC) and in vivo in rats using fluorescently labelled liposomes. Experiments with PBCEC showed that sterically stabilized (PEGylated) liposomes without protein as well as liposomes conjugated to native bovine serum albumin (BSA) were not taken up. In contrast, cBSA-liposomes were taken up and appeared to be concentrated in intracellular vesicles. Uptake occurred in a concentration and time dependent manner. Free BSA and free cBSA inhibited uptake. After intravenous application of cBSA-liposomes, confocal fluorescence microscopy of brain cryosections from male Wistar rats showed fluorescence associated with liposomes in brain capillary surrounding tissue after 3, 6 and 24 h, for liposomes with a diameter between 120 and 150 nm, suggesting successful brain delivery of cationized-albumin coupled liposomes.
Monitoring Vertical Land Motions in Southwestern Taiwan with Retracked Topex/Poseidon and Jason-2 Satellite Altimetry
Authors: Kuo Chung-Yen , Cheng You-Jia , Lan Wen-Hau , Kao Huan-Chin
Published: April 2015

This study successfully uses satellite altimetry, including Topex/Poseidon and Jason-2, retrieved by novel retrackers to monitor vertical land motions in Southwestern Taiwan. Satellite altimetry was originally designed to measure open oceans, so waveform retracking should be applied to overcome the complex waveforms reflected from lands. Modified threshold and improved subwaveform threshold retrackers were used in the study to improve the accuracy of altimetric land surface heights (LSHs) in Southwestern Taiwan. Results indicate that the vertical motion rates derived from both retrackers coincide with those calculated by 1843 precise leveling points, with a correlation coefficient of 0.96 and mean differences of 0.43 and 0.52 cm/yr (standard deviations: 0.61 and 0.69 cm/yr). In addition, wet troposphere delay by precise point positioning with the use of Global Navigation Satellite System data was employed to evaluate the impact of the delay on the estimates of vertical motion rates compared with that traditionally derived from the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts model when the microwave radiometer is non-functional over lands. The accuracies of retracked altimetric land motion rates corrected by wet troposphere delays derived from both models show no remarkable differences in the Tuku and Yuanchang areas because the accuracy of retracked altimetric LSHs is significantly worse than that of wet troposphere delays.
A Novel Multi-Digital Camera System Based on Tilt-Shift Photography Technology
Authors: Sun Tao , Fang Jun-yong , Zhao Dong , Liu Xue , Tong Qing-xi
Published: April 2015

Multi-digital camera systems (MDCS) are constantly being improved to meet the increasing requirement of high-resolution spatial data. This study identifies the insufficiencies of traditional MDCSs and proposes a new category MDCS based on tilt-shift photography to improve ability of the MDCS to acquire high-accuracy spatial data. A prototype system, including two or four tilt-shift cameras (TSC, camera model: Nikon D90), is developed to validate the feasibility and correctness of proposed MDCS. Similar to the cameras of traditional MDCSs, calibration is also essential for TSC of new MDCS. The study constructs indoor control fields and proposes appropriate calibration methods for TSC, including digital distortion model (DDM) approach and two-step calibrated strategy. The characteristics of TSC are analyzed in detail via a calibration experiment; for example, the edge distortion of TSC. Finally, the ability of the new MDCS to acquire high-accuracy spatial data is verified through flight experiments. The results of flight experiments illustrate that geo-position accuracy of prototype system achieves 0.3 m at a flight height of 800 m, and spatial resolution of 0.15 m. In addition, results of the comparison between the traditional (MADC II) and proposed MDCS demonstrate that the latter (0.3 m) provides spatial data with higher accuracy than the former (only 0.6 m) under the same conditions. We also take the attitude that using higher accuracy TSC in the new MDCS should further improve the accuracy of the photogrammetry senior product.
Brain Process for Perception of the “Out of the Body” Tactile Illusion for Virtual Object Interaction
Authors: Lee Hye , Lee Jaedong , Kim Chi , Kim Gerard , Kim Eun-Soo , Whang Mincheol
Published: April 2015

“Out of the body” tactile illusion refers to the phenomenon in which one can perceive tactility as if emanating from a location external to the body without any stimulator present there. Taking advantage of such a tactile illusion is one way to provide and realize richer interaction feedback without employing and placing actuators directly at all stimulation target points. However, to further explore its potential, it is important to better understand the underlying physiological and neural mechanism. As such, we measured the brain wave patterns during such tactile illusion and mapped out the corresponding brain activation areas. Participants were given stimulations at different levels with the intention to create veridical (i.e., non-illusory) and phantom sensations at different locations along an external hand-held virtual ruler. The experimental data and analysis indicate that both veridical and illusory sensations involve, among others, the parietal lobe, one of the most important components in the tactile information pathway. In addition, we found that as for the illusory sensation, there is an additional processing resulting in the delay for the ERP (event-related potential) and involvement by the limbic lobe. These point to regarding illusion as a memory and recognition task as a possible explanation. The present study demonstrated some basic understanding; how humans process “virtual” objects and the way associated tactile illusion is generated will be valuable for HCI (Human-Computer Interaction).
Sensing Features of Long Period Gratings in Hollow Core Fibers
Authors: Iadicicco Agostino , Campopiano Stefania
Published: April 2015

We report on the investigation of the sensing features of the Long-Period fiber Gratings (LPGs) fabricated in hollow core photonic crystal fibers (HC-PCFs) by the pressure assisted Electric Arc Discharge (EAD) technique. In particular, the characterization of the LPG in terms of shift in resonant wavelengths and changes in attenuation band depth to the environmental parameters: strain, temperature, curvature, refractive index and pressure is presented. The achieved results show that LPGs in HC-PCFs represent a novel high performance sensing platform for measurements of different physical parameters including strain, temperature and, especially, for measurements of environmental pressure. The pressure sensitivity enhancement is about four times greater if we compare LPGs in HC and standard fibers. Moreover, differently from LPGs in standard fibers, these LPGs realized in innovative fibers, i.e., the HC-PCFs, are not sensitive to surrounding refractive index.
Resilience Assessment of Lowland Plantations Using an Ecosystem Modeling Approach
Authors: Wu Chia-Hsin , Lo Yueh-Hsin , Blanco Juan , Chang Shih-Chieh
Published: April 2015

As afforestation programs of former farmlands take hold in Taiwan to achieve a variety of ecological and socio-economic values, it is becoming necessary to define best forest management. Hence, we simulated mixed stands of Cinnamomum camphora and Fraxinus griffithii planted through a gradient of soil fertility and varying camphor/ash density ratios, but maintaining a fixed total stand density of 1500 trees ha−1. Total stand productivity was slightly lower in mixed stands than the combination of both monocultures in rich and poor sites. Maximum negative yield surpluses for 50-year old stands were 7 Mg ha−1 and 6 Mg ha−1 for rich and poor sites with a 1:1 camphor laurel/ash ratios. Maximum stand woody biomass in rich sites was reached in camphor laurel monocultures (120 Mg ha−1) and in poor sites for Himalayan ash monocultures (58 Mg ha−1). However, for medium-quality sites, a small yield surplus (11 Mg ha−1) was estimated coinciding with a maximum stand woody biomass of 95 Mg ha−1 for a 1:1 camphor laurel/ash density ratio. From an ecological resilience point of view, rotation length was more important than stand composition. Long rotations (100 years) could improve soil conditions in poor sites. In rich sites, short rotations (50 years) should be avoided to reduce risks or fertility loss.
Quantitative Diagnoses and Comprehensive Evaluations of the Rationality of Chinese Urban Development Patterns
Authors: Fang Chuanglin , Wang Zhenbo
Published: April 2015

China’s new urbanization development strategy needs to be supported by rational urban systems. Here, a comprehensive diagnostic index system that uses GIS technology and a Chinese urban scale structure rationality diagnostic model, functional structure rationality diagnostic model, spatial structure rationality diagnostic model and Chinese urban development rationality diagnostic model is used to comprehensively evaluate the rationality of Chinese urban development patterns. The results show that the structure of urban development in China is largely rational, with 70.78% of all cities rational in this respect and with rationality influenced by historical evolution, zoning adjustments and natural conditions; that overall, the scale structure of Chinese cities is rational, with 68.03% of all cities rational in this respect, conforming to Zipf’s law and exhibiting a relatively rational pyramidal pattern with “a slightly larger middle and small bottom end”; that overall, urban spatial structure is rational, with 69.41% of all cities rational in this respect, and irrational cities concentrated in areas with low carrying capacities and regions with few cities with high carrying capacities; and that urban functional structure is largely rational, with 69.11% of all cities rational in this respect, mainly concentrated in urban agglomerations. This study provides a scientific basis for further optimizing the structure of urban development in China and promoting a new type of urbanization.
Clostridium Perfringens Enterotoxin (CPE) and CPE-Binding Domain (c-CPE) for the Detection and Treatment of Gynecologic Cancers
Authors: Black Jonathan , Lopez Salvatore , Cocco Emiliano , Schwab Carlton , English Diana , Santin Alessandro
Published: April 2015

Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (CPE) is a three-domain polypeptide, which binds to Claudin-3 and Claudin-4 with high affinity. Because these receptors are highly differentially expressed in many human tumors, claudin-3 and claudin-4 may provide an efficient molecular tool to specifically identify and target biologically aggressive human cancer cells for CPE-specific binding and cytolysis. In this review we will discuss these surface proteins as targets for the detection and treatment of chemotherapy-resistant gynecologic malignancies overexpressing claudin-3 and -4 using CPE-based theranostic agents. We will also discuss the use of fluorescent c-CPE peptide in the operative setting for real time detection of micro-metastatic tumors during surgery and review the potential role of CPE in other medical applications.
Three Valuable Peptides from Bee and Wasp Venoms for Therapeutic and Biotechnological Use: Melittin, Apamin and Mastoparan
Authors: Moreno Miguel , Giralt Ernest
Published: April 2015

While knowledge of the composition and mode of action of bee and wasp venoms dates back 50 years, the therapeutic value of these toxins remains relatively unexploded. The properties of these venoms are now being studied with the aim to design and develop new therapeutic drugs. Far from evaluating the extensive number of monographs, journals and books related to bee and wasp venoms and the therapeutic effect of these toxins in numerous diseases, the following review focuses on the three most characterized peptides, namely melittin, apamin, and mastoparan. Here, we update information related to these compounds from the perspective of applied science and discuss their potential therapeutic and biotechnological applications in biomedicine.
Eradication of HIV-1 from the Macrophage Reservoir: An Uncertain Goal?
Authors: Abbas Wasim , Tariq Muhammad , Iqbal Mazhar , Kumar Amit , Herbein Georges
Published: April 2015

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) establishes latency in resting memory CD4+ T cells and cells of myeloid lineage. In contrast to the T cells, cells of myeloid lineage are resistant to the HIV-1 induced cytopathic effect. Cells of myeloid lineage including macrophages are present in anatomical sanctuaries making them a difficult drug target. In addition, the long life span of macrophages as compared to the CD4+ T cells make them important viral reservoirs in infected individuals especially in the late stage of viral infection where CD4+ T cells are largely depleted. In the past decade, HIV-1 persistence in resting CD4+ T cells has gained considerable attention. It is currently believed that rebound viremia following cessation of combination anti-retroviral therapy (cART) originates from this source. However, the clinical relevance of this reservoir has been questioned. It is suggested that the resting CD4+ T cells are only one source of residual viremia and other viral reservoirs such as tissue macrophages should be seriously considered. In the present review we will discuss how macrophages contribute to the development of long-lived latent reservoirs and how macrophages can be used as a therapeutic target in eradicating latent reservoir.
Incorporation of Spike and Membrane Glycoproteins into Coronavirus Virions
Authors: Ujike Makoto , Taguchi Fumihiro
Published: April 2015

The envelopes of coronaviruses (CoVs) contain primarily three proteins; the two major glycoproteins spike (S) and membrane (M), and envelope (E), a non-glycosylated protein. Unlike other enveloped viruses, CoVs bud and assemble at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-Golgi intermediate compartment (ERGIC). For efficient virion assembly, these proteins must be targeted to the budding site and to interact with each other or the ribonucleoprotein. Thus, the efficient incorporation of viral envelope proteins into CoV virions depends on protein trafficking and protein–protein interactions near the ERGIC. The goal of this review is to summarize recent findings on the mechanism of incorporation of the M and S glycoproteins into the CoV virion, focusing on protein trafficking and protein–protein interactions.
Aluminum-Based Water Treatment Residue Reuse for Phosphorus Removal
Authors: Lee Lai , Wang Bibin , Guo Huiling , Hu Jiang , Ong Say
Published: April 2015

Aluminum-based water treatment residue (Al-WTR) generated during the drinking water treatment process is a readily available recycled material with high phosphorus (P) adsorption capacity. The P adsorption capacity of Al-WTR generated from Singapore’s water treatment plant was evaluated with reference to particle size range, adsorption pH and temperature. Column tests, with WTR amendments in sand with and without compost, were used to simulate the bioretention systems. The adsorption rate decreased with increasing WTR sizes. Highest P adsorption capacity, 15.57 mg PO43−-P/g WTR, was achieved using fine WTR particles (>50% particles at less than 0.30 mm). At pH 4, the contact time required to reduce effluent P concentration to below the detectable range was half compared with pH 7 and 9. The adsorption rate observed at 40 ± 2 °C was 21% higher compared with that at 30 ± 2 °C. Soil mixes amended with 10% WTR and compost were able to maintain consistently high (90%) total phosphorus (TP) removal efficiency at a TP load up to 6.45 g/m3. In contrast, TP removal efficiencies associated with columns without WTR amendment decreased to less than 45% as the TP load increased beyond 4.5 g/m3. The results showed that WTR application is beneficial for enhanced TP removal in bioretention systems.
Les statistiques financières en France : évolutions et perspectives
Authors: Pauly Élisabeth
Published: April 2015

Financial Statistics in France : Recent Changes and Future Prospects.

Financial statistics which are a main instrument for the conduct of monetary policy have registered big changes in the last decades. Due to financial innovations and capital market expansion, new players (investment funds, securitization firms) and new financial instruments (namely derivatives) have taken a growing importance, becoming essential elements to be taken into account in the analysis of financing and investment flows. The creation of the euro has also represented a key factor of change in the statistical framework, triggering a progressive extension in the coverage of financial statistics together with a high degree of harmonization in the euro zone countries, to fulfill the needs of the euro zone monetary policy. In spite of the significant progress registered in the coverage of financial statistics, their explanatory power tends to be limited by the financial globalization and the increasing sophistication of the operations. This situation calls for a strengthening of international cooperation, with the aim of further harmonizing financial statistics and improving the analysis of the relationship between finance and the real economy.

Classification JEL : C82, E58, G15.
Promouvoir l’éducation financière du public
Authors: Marx Bernard , Micoleau-Marcel Pascale , Sarlat Guillaume
Published: April 2015

Promoting Financial Education for the General Public.

The few surveys conducted to measure financial literacy of the French show that their knowledge is generally poor. It is no surprise. These subjects are still hardly taught at school, even if some progress could be made in the near future. Media mainly address people who are already informed and contents are quite technical. In relation to other countries, France is neither ahead nor behind. But little progress is being made. There is neither a national strategy nor the political will to deal with the issue yet. But the good news is the creation of the Institute for Public Financial Education (IEFP) with its initiatives and programs.

Classification JEL : A10, A20.
L’information boursière comme bien public. Enjeux et perspectives de la révision de la directive européenne « Marchés d’instruments financiers »
Authors: Hautcœur Pierre-Cyrille , Lagneau-Ymonet Pascal , Riva Angelo
Published: April 2015

Stock Market Information as a Public Good. Stakes and Outlooks of the Review of the European Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID).

The organization of securities markets has not benefited from the feigned attempts of reform presented by the governments since the outbreak of the current crisis. However, both speculative opportunities and the resulting risks depend on the markets on which one operates. The Markets in Financial Instruments Directive of the European Union, effective since 2007, reflects an excessive faith in the self-organizing virtues of the market. It unleashed a noxious competition on the market for financial markets that led to liquidity fragmentation and the privatization of market information. Drawing from financial history, we argue that regulated markets should be entrusted, at the European level, with a general interest mission, similar to the one they have long observed on a national level with no harm on economic development : they should centralize, consolidate and publicize post-as well as pre-trade information that are public goods.

Classification JEL : E44, F36, G18, G28, H41, K23, L33, N23, N24, N43, N44.
Les mesures d’adaptation des politiques monétaires non conventionnelles et les difficultés liées aux stratégies de sortie
Authors: Gruson Pierre
Published: April 2015

Non Standard Monetary Policy Measures and Crisis Exit Strategies.

Main developed countries Central Banks have committed to non standard monetary policy measures in order to avoid bank defaults and to find a solution to the international financial crisis. This paper studies the implementation of such measures in each currency zone according to specific environments (refinancing vehicles or collaterals, more flexible conditions) and assesses the direct and secondary outcomes of these monetary policies (impact on Central Bank balance sheet). It also highlights all the difficulties to enter in exit strategies so as to put an end to the transitory policies measures and to stop the zero interest rate policy ; namely, expectations of inflation, return of financial markets to a spontaneous equilibrium, conflicts with the fiscal policy.

Classification JEL : E43, E51, E52, E58.
De la crise des collatéraux à la remise des dettes publiques
Authors: Thoris Gérard
Published: April 2015

La crise économique a été globalement perçue comme une crise de compte de résultat et non comme une crise de bilan. Dans la première, les ventes s’affaissent et il convient d’agir d’une part sur la trésorerie et d’autre part sur l’attractivité de la demande. Dans la seconde, il faut assumer la perte de richesse nette que constitue la destruction économique d’une partie de l’actif. Dans ce cas, la solution consiste normalement à reconstituer les fonds propres à hauteur des pertes d’actifs. Cette augmentation peut être utilisée pour diminuer l’endettement de sorte que les grands ratios de gestion soient respectés. Si cela a été effectué au niveau des entreprises, voire des ménages, c’est la politique contraire qui a été menée au niveau des États. Les déficits et l’endettement public se sont accrus considérablement. La reconstitution des ratios de bonne gestion publique est désormais un objectif majeur. Or les chiffres montrent que la réussite d’une telle politique est impossible. D’où l’idée qu’il serait préférable d’envisager une remise des dettes publiques. Celle-ci serait organisée par les banques centrales sous réserve que les gouvernements acceptent désormais le principe de l’équilibre budgétaire. En restaurant les finances publiques, c’est l’horizon de tous les agents économiques qui s’éclaircit et ce sont les conditions de la croissance qui sont reconstituées.

Classification JEL : E42, E51, E52, E58, F34, F50.
Re-réglementation financière internationale : un défi transatlantique
Authors: Mistral Jacques
Published: April 2015

Il est désormais largement admis que la crise a montré l’échec des marchés. Lors de sa première réunion, à Washington en novembre 2008, le G20 a entrepris une campagne de re-réglementation. Des mois de négociation plus tard, ses membres semblent manifestement moins enclins à se mettre d’accord sur des principes et de grands objectifs, et à définir et faire appliquer des règles et des engagements. Toronto, le quatrième sommet du G20, n’a apporté que peu de progrès tangibles. L’article examine d’abord les raisons fondamentales pour lesquelles une convergence internationale des régulations financières est difficile dans un monde multipolaire et hétérogène. Néanmoins, la prévention des risques systémiques et le renforcement de la réglementation et de la supervision bancaire ont significativement progressé et témoigneront à Séoul d’actions réussies dans la ligne des décisions du G20. Ceci met en évidence ce que nous appelons «une convergence viable » . Dans l’avenir, l’ordre du jour atteindra des questions plus périlleuses comme le traitement des SIFI et des dérivés. Les opinions pourraient être encore plus opposées sur la convergence en matière de normes comptables et de banques d’investissement. La conclusion porte sur les chances de rendre le système financier plus sûr et invite le sommet de Séoul à ne pas s’appuyer seulement sur les résultats actuels mais à donner une nouvelle impulsion afin d’améliorer la convergence des normes financières internationales.

Classification JEL : F50, F55, G28, M48.
Too big to fail : gouvernance et régulation des banques
Authors: Lobez Frédéric
Published: April 2015

Cet article tente de répondre aux questions suivantes : Quels ont été le rôle et les effets de la gouvernance des banques dans le développement de la crise ? Quelles leçons tirer de la crise systémique pour situer les objectifs d’une régulation, et comment articuler gouvernance et régulation ? La thèse soutenue est double. Le sentier d’expansion d’une banque résulte usuellement d’un équilibre entre les effets antagonistes de la gouvernance des actionnaires et de celle des déposants ; dans la crise récente, l’émergence du too big to fail effect a annihilé l’effet disciplinant des «ruées bancaires » . Logiquement, il en est résulté un accroissement du risque porté par les banques. La régulation bancaire doit avoir pour principaux objectifs d’inciter les banques à revenir à leurs fondamentaux, de restaurer les vertus de la faillite et de limiter un risque systémique qui est nouveau et déstabilisant. Dans cette perspective, plusieurs pistes sont discutées : la limitation de la taille des banques, la création d’un régime spécial de faillite pour les banques, la limitation de la titrisation et le principe d’une régulation contingente à la gouvernance de la banque.

Classification JEL : G01, G21, G28.
La normalisation comptable internationale après David Tweedie
Authors: Véron Nicolas
Published: April 2015

Depuis sa création en 2001 et la nomination à sa tête de David Tweedie, l’International Accounting Standards Boards (IASB) a connu un succès spectaculaire, marqué par l’adoption de ses normes, sous des formes variées, dans la plupart des économies développées et émergentes. Toutefois, ce succès crée pour l’IASB une responsabilité de type politique vis-à-vis de l’ensemble des acteurs affectés par ses normes, que l’organisme de normalisation internationale a eu des difficultés à endosser et à laquelle il ne s’est pas à ce jour entièrement adapté. Depuis 2007, la crise financière a accentué les défis qui se posent à l’IASB concernant son mandat, ses structures, et son rôle en aval de la normalisation proprement dite. L’analyse de ces défis permet d’identifier trois scénarios concernant l’évolution de l’IASB après le départ de David Tweedie programmé en 2011.

Classification JEL : M41, M48.
Rethinking refugia: Tree topology, divergence dates, and demographic history trace the distribution of the endangered Plymouth gentian (Sabatia kennedyana) from the Pleistocene glaciation to present day
Authors: Suarez‐Gonzalez Adriana , Sutton Jolene T. , Trant Andrew J. , Zamlynny Elena , Good Sara V.
Published: April 2015

• Premise of study: Molecular population genetics is a powerful tool to infer how species responded to past environmental change. In the northern hemisphere, interest is increasing in how species responded to changes in ice coverage and temperature during the last glaciation maximum (LGM, between 18000–21000 yr ago) with a common assumption that glacial refugia were located at the southern edge of a species range.

• Methods: We reconstructed the glacial and postglacial phylogeography of Sabatia kennedyana, a member of the Atlantic Coastal Plains Flora with a current distribution from Nova Scotia (NS) to South Carolina, using both cpDNA and nuclear markers. We also examined clinal variation in morphological traits, in particular relative investment in asexual vs sexual growth.

• Key results: We find strong evidence that the species did not reside in southern glacial refugia, but rather in primary glacial refugia off the exposed continental shelf extending from Cape Cod and that this area was responsible for the founding of modern populations across the range from Nova Scotia (NS) to the United States. Additionally, based on the finding of higher cpDNA diversity and older cpDNA lineages in NS, we propose that multiple founder events occurred in NS, while only a single lineage gave rise to current populations in the United States.

• Conclusions: By understanding how S. kennedyana responded to past shifts in climate and by identifying areas of high genetic diversity in the northern range edge, we discuss the potential response of the species to future climate change scenarios.
Development and characterization of microsatellite loci for the endangered scrub lupine, Lupinus aridorum (Fabaceae)
Authors: Ricono Angela , Bupp Glen , Peterson Cheryl , Nunziata Schyler O. , Lance Stacey L. , Pruett Christin L.
Published: April 2015

Premise of the study:

Microsatellite primers were developed in scrub lupine (Lupinus aridorum, Fabaceae), an endemic species to Florida that is listed as endangered in the United States, to assess connectivity among populations, identify hybrids, and examine genetic diversity.

Methods and Results:

We isolated and characterized 12 microsatellite loci polymorphic in scrub lupine or in closely related species (i.e., sky‐blue lupine [L. diffusus] and Gulf Coast lupine [L. westianus]). Loci showed low to moderate polymorphism, ranging from two to 14 alleles per locus and 0.01 to 0.86 observed heterozygosity.

Conclusions:

These loci are the first developed for Florida species of lupine and will be used to determine differentiation among species and to aid in conservation of the endangered scrub lupine.
An Economic Evaluation of Conception Strategies for Heterosexual Serodiscordant Couples where the Male Partner is HIV-Positive
Authors: Letchumanan Michelle , Coyte Peter C , Loutfy Mona
Published: April 2015

Background

To conduct an economic evaluation of the three commonly used interventions that reduce sexual HIV transmission when an HIV-negative female aims to conceive with an HIV-positive male on combination anti-retroviral therapy (condomless sex restricted to timed ovulation [CS], sperm washing with intrauterine insemination [SW] and condomless sex restricted to timed ovulation with pre-exposure prophylaxis [CS-PrEP]). As SW and CS-PrEP are only privately available for pregnancy planning for this population in Canada, this study was conducted to inform policy decisions concerning potential public health insurance coverage, as well as to inform fertility counselling in settings with adequate combination antiretroviral therapy access globally.

Methods

We developed a cohort Markov model with a lifetime horizon and used the perspective of Ontario's Ministry of Health (MOH). Input parameters were drawn from literature, the MOH's Schedule of Benefits and a time trade-off questionnaire designed for this study. Outcome measures included quality-adjusted life-years and incremental cost-effectiveness. Costs and benefits were discounted at annual rates of 3%. Costs were reported in Canadian 2013 dollars and an exchange rate of 1 USD to 1.066 CND was applied where necessary. Sensitivity analysis assessed the uncertainty of model parameters.

Results

The base case analysis found that CS-PrEP and SW were each more costly and less effective at conception than CS. The results were robust in the sensitivity analysis and suggest that CS is the dominant conception strategy in this population.

Conclusions

Neither CS-PrEP nor SW represent better value for money relative to CS as a conception option for HIV-discordant couples with positive male partners. Based on these findings, CS-PrEP and SW cannot be recommended for public-funding in developed countries.
Viral Shedding and Susceptibility to Oseltamivir in Hospitalized Immunocompromised Patients with Influenza in the Influenza Resistance Information Study (IRIS)
Authors: Fraaij Pieter L , Schutten Martin , Javouhey Etienne , Burleigh Laura , Outlaw Russell , Kumar Deepali , Boucher Charles A
Published: April 2015

Background

Immunocompromised patients are at greater risk of complicated influenza and may be more likely to develop antiviral resistance. This observational sub-study of the Influenza Resistance Information Study (NCT00884117) aimed to study antiviral resistance in immunocompromised patients with influenza and characterize its effect on clinical and virological outcomes.

Methods

Eligible immunocompromised patients were aged ≥1 year with a local rapid diagnostic or PCR test positive for influenza ≤96 h after diagnosis and with influenza symptoms. Nasal and throat swabs were taken for RT-PCR analysis on day 1 and then every 3 days until patients were virus-free. Resistance was assessed by mutation-specific RT-PCR, phenotypic susceptibility analysis and Sanger sequencing.

Results

Of 42 patients enrolled, 29 (69%) were influenza-positive (RT-PCR) on day 1: 18 adults and 11 children aged 1–12 years. Six patients were severely immunocompromised. On days 3, 6 and 9, most patients tested (18/24, 9/15 and 6/9, respectively) had not cleared the virus. Two of five patients assessed after day 9 continued shedding virus until day 15. H1N1pdm09 viruses harbouring H275Y mutations were detected in post-baseline samples from four patients (aged 52–61 years), one of whom had prolonged viral shedding. No genotypic antiviral resistance was detected in the other 20 treated patients (prevalence of resistance, 17%). Correlation between level of immune compromise and resistance or outcomes could not be assessed. Ten patients (seven influenza-positive) were admitted to intensive care and three died.

Conclusions

In these patients with mild/moderate immunocompromise, emergence of oseltamivir-resistant viruses was not common. Severity of influenza symptoms ranged from mild to moderate, but correlation with level of compromise could not be determined.
Liver-to-Plasma Vaniprevir (MK-7009) Concentration Ratios in HCV-Infected Patients
Authors: Wright D Hamish , Caro Luzelena , Cerra Michael , Panorchan Paul , Du Lihong , Anderson Melanie , Potthoff Andrej , Nachbar Robert B , Wagner John , Manns Michael P , Talal Andrew H
Published: April 2015

Background

Some drugs that are actively taken up into the liver exhibit greater than dose proportional increases in plasma exposure, although human liver-to-plasma concentration ratios have rarely been evaluated. Understanding these relationships has implications for drug concentrations at the target site for certain classes of compounds, such as direct-acting antivirals, targeted towards HCV.

Methods

Treatment-experienced, chronic HCV non-cirrhotic patients ( n=3) received vaniprevir (600 mg or 300 mg twice daily) on days 1–3 and (600 mg or 300 mg single dose) on day 4. Core needle biopsy was performed at 6 or 12 h post-dose on day 4. Blood samples were collected pre-dose on days 1 and 4, and for 24 h post-dose on day 4. The primary study objective was the hepatic concentration of vaniprevir at 6 and 12 h post-dose.

Results

Vaniprevir plasma pharmacokinetic parameters increased in a greater than dose-proportional manner between the 300 mg and 600 mg doses, with approximately fivefold increases in AUC0–12 and Cmax associated with a twofold increase in dose (AUC0–12, 10.6 μM/h to 59.5 μM/h; Cmax, 2.60 μM to 13.5 μM). In the 300 mg and 600 mg dose groups, mean liver concentrations of vaniprevir were 84.6 μM and 169 μM at 6 h post-dose, and 29.4 μM and 53.7 μM at 12 h post-dose. Liver concentrations were higher than plasma with liver-to-plasma concentration ratios of approximately 20–280.

Conclusions

These data confirm higher vaniprevir concentrations in human liver compared with plasma and demonstrate that measurement of human liver drug concentration using needle biopsy is feasible.
La « Méditation sur le thème du don désintéressé » de Jean-Paul II. Une présentation
Authors: Ide Pascal
Published: April 2015

Le 8 février 1994, Jean-Paul II a rédigé ce qu’il appelle une « Méditation sur le thème du ‘don désintéressé’ ». Publié en polonais, pour la première fois traduit en français (cf. NRT 134 [2012] 188-200) et paru seulement en 2006 dans les AAS , ce texte est pratiquement inconnu. L’article en montre d’abord l’importance : la méditation tisse, avec une rare densité, nombre d’idées qui sont chères au pape polonais. Surtout, elle les reprend de manière synthétique à partir d’un thème qui, comme dans une rhapsodie, traverse tout le texte : « Dieu t’a donné à moi ». L’autre personne ne m’apparaît pleinement comme un don que si je discerne en elle le Donateur qui m’en fait cadeau. À partir de cette intuition centrale se dessine toute une anthropologie et une éthique du don.
L’onction des malades : sacrement de la tendresse de Dieu
Authors: Guibert Vincent
Published: April 2015

Au regard des mutations de son histoire, l’onction des malades met dans l’embarras le théologien et le pasteur. Mais là se trouve également son attrait : situé à la jointure du physiologique et du spirituel, il donne à penser. Cet article cherche à mieux définir l’effet de grâce ou le réconfort qu’apporte ce sacrement au malade. Il propose également de mettre en relation l’onction non seulement avec le sacrement du pardon, mais encore avec celui de la confirmation.
Branding, Marketing, and Design
Authors: Kent Anthony , Dennis Charles , Cano Marta Blasquez , Helberger Eva , Brakus Josko
Published: April 2015

The aim of this chapter is to develop knowledge of retail environments through an overview of the most used technologies in retailing and the contribution of in-store technologies to the experience of the fashion store environment. The chapter commences with an overview of the influence of multichannel development, consumer-facing technologies, and their adoption by fashion retailers. The second part examines the use of digital signage and its contribution to atmospherics in a department store. The researchers have used a mixed method approach, with observational techniques drawn first from ethnographic methodology, and second, a quantitative approach to consumers' environmental response behavior. The results indicate a limited use of innovative in-store technologies and reliance on conventional technological media in fashion stores. Secondly, digital signage demonstrates both communication and experiential effects. The chapter concludes with a discussion of convergence between the virtual and physical store environments and the implications for theory and management.
Determinants of Consumers' Mobile Coupon Adoption
Authors: Im Hyunjoo , Ha Young
Published: April 2015

Mobile technology is becoming a critical part of marketing practices and many retailers aim to engage consumers through mobile coupons. In this context, it is critical to understand what drives consumers to use mobile coupons. Technology adoption research offers insights for both researchers and practitioners into this matter. This chapter critically reviews guiding theories, Technology Acceptance Theory and Innovation Diffusion Theory, as well as important literature on technology adoption to discuss evolution and application of technology adoption research. Five perception variables (perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived enjoyment, subjective norm, compatibility) and three individual characteristics (personal innovativeness, perceived risk, gender) are selected as most relevant determinants of consumers' intention to adopt and use mobile coupons. Limitation of technology adoption research and possible future research avenues are discussed.
Adoption of Emerging In-Store Technology Interfaces for the Apparel Retail Employee
Authors: Lewis Tasha L. , Loker Suzanne
Published: April 2015

Technology use in apparel retail stores is on the rise and changing the way that employees work and customers shop. In spite of increased use, advanced technology deployed within apparel retail stores has yet to match the rapid pace of growth for technologies adopted by apparel consumers enabled by mobile devices and sophisticated digital applications. Apparel retail employees are the first line of contact for customers and are often engaged with them at several points in the service interaction, including assisting with the initial selection of apparel based on customers' desired product features, the try-on of clothing, and unique in-store services like personal shopping. In this chapter, the authors examine employee usage intent for technologies supportive of these various points of service interaction. The likelihood of employee usage of technology as well as employee characteristics that influenced the extent of technology adoption were also measured.
Omni Channel Fashion Shopping
Authors: Kemperman Astrid , van Delft Lieke , Borgers Aloys
Published: April 2015

This chapter gives insight into consumers' online and offline fashion shopping behavior, consumers' omni-channel usage during the shopping process, and consumer fashion shopper segments. Based on a literature review, omni-channel shopping behavior during the shopping process was operationalized. Subsequently, an online survey was developed to collect information of 2124 consumers living in the catchment areas of five regional Dutch shopping centers in 2013. Results of the analyses confirm previous findings and contribute additional evidence that suggests relations between consumers' omni-channel shopping behavior during the shopping process and socio-demographics and psychographics. Furthermore, results show that channel usage in the previous phase of the shopping process has a major influence on the channel usage in the following phases of the shopping process. By using the TwoStep clustering technique, six fashion shopper segments are found and described, with one of them a clear omni-channel shopper segment. The results provide information for retailers to know the type of consumers they reach through various channels to offer the right information, on the right channel, during the various phases of the shopping process.
Analyzing Online Reviews to Measure Augmented Reality Acceptance at the Point of Sale
Authors: Baier Daniel , Rese Alexandra , Schreiber Stefanie
Published: April 2015

Increasingly, brick and mortar retailers compete with their counterparts by enriching the point of sale through technological innovations that make use of customer-owned mobile devices. So, for example, IKEA, the world's largest furniture retailer, has introduced an interactive mobile app that provides the customer with additional insights in a personalized and convenient way: by scanning quick response codes in the printed catalogue, 3D objects, pictures, text, or videos are provided on the customer's smartphone or tablet. They inform about a furniture's interior or its potential usage, give planning aids, or visualize the furniture in alternative surroundings. In this chapter, the perceived usefulness, ease of use, and attitude towards such new technology-based innovations are discussed. Customers' perceptions are measured by applying a modified technology acceptance model. Traditional customer surveys as well as online customer reviews are analyzed. The results are encouraging: the mobile app is seen as an enrichment of the shopping experience but can be improved. Both data collection formats lead to similar results.