bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polyphenolic Profile and Targeted Bioactivity of Methanolic Extracts from Mediterranean Ethnomedicinal Plants on Human Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Pollio Antonino , Zarrelli Armando , Romanucci Valeria , Di Mauro Alfredo , Barra Federica , Pinto Gabriele , Crescenzi Elvira , Roscetto Emanuela , Palumbo Giuseppe
Published: March 2016

The methanol extracts of the aerial part of four ethnomedicinal plants of Mediterranean region, two non-seed vascular plants, Equisetum hyemale L. and Phyllitis scolopendrium (L.) Newman, and two Spermatophyta, Juniperus communis L. (J. communis) and Cotinus coggygria Scop. (C. coggygria), were screened against four human cells lines (A549, MCF7, TK6 and U937). Only the extracts of J. communis and C. coggygria showed marked cytotoxic effects, affecting both cell morphology and growth. A dose-dependent effect of these two extracts was also observed on the cell cycle distribution. Incubation of all the cell lines in a medium containing J. communis extract determined a remarkable accumulation of cells in the G2/M phase, whereas the C. coggygria extract induced a significant increase in the percentage of G1 cells. The novelty of our findings stands on the observation that the two extracts, consistently, elicited coherent effects on the cell cycle in four cell lines, independently from their phenotype, as two of them have epithelial origin and grow adherent and two are lymphoblastoid and grow in suspension. Even the expression profiles of several proteins regulating cell cycle progression and cell death were affected by both extracts. LC-MS investigation of methanol extract of C. coggygria led to the identification of twelve flavonoids (compounds 1–11, 19) and eight polyphenols derivatives (12–18, 20), while in J. communis extract, eight flavonoids (21–28), a α-ionone glycoside (29) and a lignin (30) were found. Although many of these compounds have interesting individual biological activities, their natural blends seem to exert specific effects on the proliferation of cell lines either growing adherent or in suspension, suggesting potential use in fighting cancer.
Structure-Based Drug Design of Small Molecule Peptide Deformylase Inhibitors to Treat Cancer
Authors: Gao Jian , Wang Tao , Qiu Shengzhi , Zhu Yasheng , Liang Li , Zheng Youguang
Published: March 2016

Human peptide deformylase (HsPDF) is an important target for anticancer drug discovery. In view of the limited HsPDF, inhibitors were reported, and high-throughput virtual screening (HTVS) studies based on HsPDF for developing new PDF inhibitors remain to be reported. We reported here on diverse small molecule inhibitors with excellent anticancer activities designed based on HTVS and molecular docking studies using the crystal structure of HsPDF. The compound M7594_0037 exhibited potent anticancer activities against HeLa, A549 and MCF-7 cell lines with IC50s of 35.26, 29.63 and 24.63 μM, respectively. Molecular docking studies suggested that M7594_0037 and its three derivatives could interact with HsPDF by several conserved hydrogen bonds. Moreover, the pharmacokinetic and toxicity properties of M7594_0037 and its derivatives were predicted using the OSIRIS property explorer. Thus, M7594_0037 and its derivatives might represent a promising scaffold for the further development of novel anticancer drugs.
Extraction Optimization, Purification and Physicochemical Properties of Polysaccharides from Gynura medica
Authors: Li Fengwei , Gao Jian , Xue Feng , Yu Xiaohong , Shao Tao
Published: March 2016

Extraction of polysaccharides from Gynura medica (GMPs) was optimized by response surface methodology (RSM). A central composition design including three parameters, namely extraction temperature (X1), ratio of water to raw material (X2) and extraction time (X3), was used. The best conditions were extraction temperature of 91.7 °C, extraction time of 4.06 h and ratio of water to raw material of 29.1 mL/g. Under the optimized conditions, the yield of GMPs was 5.56%, which was similar to the predicted polysaccharides yield of 5.66%. A fraction named GMP-1 was obtained after isolation and purification by DEAE-52 and Sephadex G-100 gel chromatography, respectively. GMP-1, with a molecular weight of 401 kDa, mainly consisted of galacturonic acid (GalA), xylose (Xyl), glucose (Glu). Infrared spectroscopy was used to characterize the major functional groups of GMP-1 and the results indicated that it was an acidic polysaccharide. The antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of GMPs and GMP-1 were determined in vitro. The results indicated that GMPs and GMP-1 show potential for use in functional foods or medicines.
A Series of Oleanolic Acid Derivatives as Anti-Hepatitis B Virus Agents: Design, Synthesis, and in Vitro and in Vivo Biological Evaluation
Authors: Yan Wenqiang , Zhang Chenze , Li Bi , Xu Xin , Liang Miao , Gu Shun , Chu Fuhao , Xu Bing , Ren Jian , Wang Penglong , Lei Haimin
Published: March 2016

A series of oleanolic acid derivatives were synthesized by diverse reactions, including the introduction of conjugated alkadiene and epoxy ring moieties formed by means of photosensitized oxidation. Eosin Y was used as photosensitizer during this process. Next the cytotoxicity of the products was evaluated on HepG2.2.15 cells to determine the appropriate treatment concentration for the subsequent experiments. Most of the OA derivatives exhibited anti-HBV antigens secretion activity in HepG2.2.15 cells. Among the tested compounds, OA-4 (3.13 µg/mL) showed significant activity against the secretion of HBsAg, HBeAg, and HBV DNA replication with inhibitory ratios of 90.52% ± 1.78%, 31.55% ± 3.65%, and 94.57% ± 3.11% after 6 days, respectively. Besides, OA-4 was further investigated in a duck model with DHBV infection. When OA-4 was administered at a dosage of 500 mg/kg, the results revealed a significant inhibitory effects of DHBV at 19.94% ± 2.87%, 28.80% ± 3.62% and 29.25% ± 2.65% at days 5, 10, and 3 after the cessation of OA-4 treatment, respectively. It’s worth noting that OA-4 is superior to lamivudine in the inhibition of rebound of viral replication rate. The structure–activity relationships of OA derivatives had been preliminary discussed, which should be useful to explore further novel anti-HBV agents.
Elderberry Supplementation Reduces Cold Duration and Symptoms in Air-Travellers: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Tiralongo Evelin , Wee Shirley , Lea Rodney
Published: March 2016

Intercontinental air travel can be stressful, especially for respiratory health. Elderberries have been used traditionally, and in some observational and clinical studies, as supportive agents against the common cold and influenza. This randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial of 312 economy class passengers travelling from Australia to an overseas destination aimed to investigate if a standardised membrane filtered elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.) extract has beneficial effects on physical, especially respiratory, and mental health. Cold episodes, cold duration and symptoms were noted in a daily diary and assessed using the Jackson score. Participants also completed three surveys containing questions regarding upper respiratory symptoms (WURSS-21) and quality of life (SF-12) at baseline, just before travel and at 4-days after travel. Most cold episodes occurred in the placebo group (17 vs. 12), however the difference was not significant (p = 0.4). Placebo group participants had a significantly longer duration of cold episode days (117 vs. 57, p = 0.02) and the average symptom score over these days was also significantly higher (583 vs. 247, p = 0.05). These data suggest a significant reduction of cold duration and severity in air travelers. More research is warranted to confirm this effect and to evaluate elderberry’s physical and mental health benefits.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs and Aspirin Therapy for the Treatment of Acute and Recurrent Idiopathic Pericarditis
Authors: Schwier Nicholas , Tran Nicole
Published: March 2016

Aspirin (ASA) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a mainstay of therapy for the treatment of idiopathic pericarditis (IP). A comprehensive review consisting of pertinent clinical literature, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic considerations, has not been released in recent years. This review will facilitate the clinician’s understanding of pharmacotherapeutic considerations for using ASA/NSAIDs to treat IP. Data were compiled using clinical literature consisting of case reports, cohort data, retrospective and prospective studies, and manufacturer package inserts. ASA, ibuprofen, indometacin, and ketorolac relatively have the most evidence in the treatment of IP, provide symptomatic relief of IP, and should be tapered accordingly. ASA is the drug of choice in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), heart failure (HF), or renal disease, but should be avoided in patients with asthma and nasal polyps, who are naïve to ASA therapy. Ibuprofen is an inexpensive and relatively accessible option in patients who do not have concomitant CAD, HF, or renal disease. Indometacin is not available over-the-counter in the USA, and has a relatively higher incidence of central nervous system (CNS) adverse effects. Ketorolac is an intravenous option; however, clinicians must be mindful of the maximum dose that can be administered. While ASA/NSAIDs do not ameliorate the disease process of IP, they are part of first-line therapy (along with colchicine), for preventing recurrence of IP. ASA/NSAID choice should be dictated by comorbid conditions, tolerability, and adverse effects. Additionally, the clinician should be mindful of considerations such as tapering, high-sensitivity CRP monitoring, bleeding risk, and contraindications to ASA/NSAID therapy.
Drug Delivery Systems Obtained from Silica Based Organic-Inorganic Hybrids
Authors: Oshiro Junior João , Paiva Abuçafy Marina , Berbel Manaia Eloísa , Lallo da Silva Bruna , Chiari-Andréo Bruna , Aparecida Chiavacci Leila
Published: March 2016

This is a review of hybrid materials based on silica as an inorganic phase used as drug delivery systems (DDS). Silica based DDS have shown effectivity when compared with traditional delivery systems. They present advantages such as: (a) ability to maintain the therapeutic range with minor variations; (b) prevention of local and systemic toxic effects; (c) plasma concentrations increase of substances with a short half-life; and (d) reduction of the number of daily doses, which may increase patient adherence to the treatment. These advantages occur due to the physical, chemical and optical properties of these materials. Therefore, we discuss the properties and characteristics of them and we present some applications, using different approaches of DDS to ensure therapeutic effectiveness and side effects reduction such as implantable biomaterial, film-forming materials, stimuli-responsive systems and others.
Interpenetration of Natural Polymer Aerogels by Supercritical Drying
Authors: Baldino Lucia , Concilio Simona , Cardea Stefano , Reverchon Ernesto
Published: March 2016

Natural polymers, such as alginate and gelatin, can be used to produce scaffolds for tissue engineering applications; but, their mechanical and biochemical performance should be improved. A possible solution to obtain this result, is the generation of multi-component scaffolds, by blending two or more polymers. One way to realize it, is the formation of an interpenetrating polymer network (IPN). In this work, the interpenetration of alginate and gelatin hydrogels has been successfully obtained and preserved by supercritical CO2 (SC-CO2) drying performed at 200 bar and 35 °C, using different blend compositions: from alginate/gelatin = 20:80 v/v to alginate/gelatin = 80:20 v/v. The process allowed modulation of morphology and mechanical properties of these blends. The overall result was made possible by the supercritical drying process that, working at zero surface tension, allows preserving the hydrogels nanostructure in the corresponding aerogels.
Editorial for Publications March 2016
Authors: Singleton Alan
Published: March 2016

Welcome to the latest issue of Publications, a journal for studies and opinion on all aspects of scholarly publishing and communication.[...]
Estimation of Thermal Sensation Based on Wrist Skin Temperatures
Authors: Sim Soo , Koh Myung , Joo Kwang , Noh Seungwoo , Park Sangyun , Kim Youn , Park Kwang
Published: March 2016

Thermal comfort is an essential environmental factor related to quality of life and work effectiveness. We assessed the feasibility of wrist skin temperature monitoring for estimating subjective thermal sensation. We invented a wrist band that simultaneously monitors skin temperatures from the wrist (i.e., the radial artery and ulnar artery regions, and upper wrist) and the fingertip. Skin temperatures from eight healthy subjects were acquired while thermal sensation varied. To develop a thermal sensation estimation model, the mean skin temperature, temperature gradient, time differential of the temperatures, and average power of frequency band were calculated. A thermal sensation estimation model using temperatures of the fingertip and wrist showed the highest accuracy (mean root mean square error [RMSE]: 1.26 ± 0.31). An estimation model based on the three wrist skin temperatures showed a slightly better result to the model that used a single fingertip skin temperature (mean RMSE: 1.39 ± 0.18). When a personalized thermal sensation estimation model based on three wrist skin temperatures was used, the mean RMSE was 1.06 ± 0.29, and the correlation coefficient was 0.89. Thermal sensation estimation technology based on wrist skin temperatures, and combined with wearable devices may facilitate intelligent control of one’s thermal environment.
Performance Evaluation and Field Application of Porous Vegetation Concrete Made with By-Product Materials for Ecological Restoration Projects
Authors: Kim Hwang-Hee , Park Chan-Gi
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance of porous vegetation concrete block made from blast furnace slag cement containing industrial by-products such as blast furnace slag aggregate and powder. The blocks were tested for void ratio, compressive strength and freeze-thaw resistance to determine the optimal mixing ratio for the porous vegetation block. An economic analysis of the mixing ratio showed that the economic efficiency increased when blast furnace slag aggregate and cement were used. Porous vegetation concrete blocks for river applications were designed and produced. Hydraulic safety, heavy metal elution and vegetation tests were completed after the blocks were applied in the field. The measured tractive force ranged between 7.0 kg/m2 for fascine revetment (vegetation revetment) and 16.0 kg/m2 for stone pitching (hard revetment), which ensured sufficient hydraulic stability in the field. Plant growth was measured after the porous vegetation concrete block was placed in the field. Seeds began to sprout one week after seeding; after six weeks, the plant length exceeded 300 mm. The average coverage ratio reached as high as 90% after six weeks of vegetation. These results clearly indicated that the porous vegetation concrete block was suitable for environmental restoration projects.
Women on Boards and Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Hyun Eunjung , Yang Daegyu , Jung Hojin , Hong Kihoon
Published: March 2016

A growing body of research suggests that having more women in the boardroom leads to better corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance. However, much of this work views the CSR-enhancing effect of women directors as largely driven by their moral orientations and rarely considers other underlying mechanisms. Moreover, less explored are the firm-specific conditions under which such CSR-promoting roles of female directors might be performed more (or less) effectively. In this paper, we seek to bridge this gap in the literature by (1) proposing an additional account for the positive influence of female independent directors on the firm’s CSR and (2) illuminating the organizational context in which female directorship is likely to translate into good CSR performance. We argue that women independent directors might take CSR issues more seriously than their male counterparts not only because of their stronger moral orientations, but also because they have reputational reasons to do so. Further, we suggest that female directors’ concerns about CSR-relevant matters are more (less) likely to gain support from other members of the organization when their company is doing more (less) business in the product markets where reputation for CSR is more (less) vital for success. Using a sample of Standard & Poor’s (S&P) 1500 index firms (2000–2009) and the data on their board composition and CSR ratings, we find strong support for our argument. We find that the number (or proportion) of women independent directors is positively associated with a firm’s CSR ratings and that the strength of this relationship depends on the level of the firm’s consumer market orientation.
Maternal-Fetal Cancer Risk Assessment of Ochratoxin A during Pregnancy
Authors: Woo Chit , El-Nezami Hani
Published: March 2016

Increasing evidence has demonstrated that in utero exposure to environmental chemicals may interfere with fetal development and increase the risk of disease and cancer development later in life. Ochratoxin A (OTA) has been proven to induce diverse toxic effects including teratogenicity, carcinogenicity, immunotoxicity and potential endocrine disruption. Due to the continuous and widespread occurrence of OTA as a potential contaminant of staple foods, there is increasing concern of in utero exposure of fetus to this mycotoxin. In this study, maternal-fetal risk assessment of OTA during pregnancy was conducted using the benchmark dose approach for genotoxic carcinogens. The daily intake of OTA for Egyptian pregnant women was estimated based on their serum OTA level using the refined Klaassen equation for pregnancy. Fetal exposure level was also estimated based on the maternal data. Comparison between the estimated daily exposure and the negligible cancer risk intake (NCRI), and the calculation of margin of exposure (MOE) implicated that OTA exposure from dietary intake would be of low health concern for this general subpopulation of Egyptian women. This subpopulation of pregnant women was generally estimated not to be in high-risk for toxicity induced by OTA.
Correction: Shuang, L.; et al. Autophagy Activated by Bluetongue Virus Infection Plays a Positive Role in Its Replication, Viruses 2015, 7, 4657–4675
Authors:   Office
Published: March 2016

The Viruses Editorial Office wishes to notify its readers of a correction in [1].[...]
Valuing the Potential Benefits of Water Quality Improvements in Watersheds Affected by Non-Point Source Pollution
Authors: Alvarez Sergio , Asci Serhat , Vorotnikova Ekaterina
Published: March 2016

Nonpoint source (NPS) pollution has been identified by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as “the nation’s largest water quality problem”. Urban development, septic systems, and agricultural operations have been identified as the major sources of diffuse pollution in surface and ground water bodies. In recent decades, urban and agricultural Best Management Practices (BMP) have been developed in several states to address agricultural water quality and water use impacts, including the reduction of nutrient loads to help meet water quality standards. Compliance with BMPs is associated with some costs to local governments, homeowners, and agricultural operations, but the improvements in water quality associated with BMP adoption are expected to yield significant benefits to society in the form of improved recreational opportunities, navigation, flood control, and ecosystem health. The development of sound policies and decision making processes require balancing the costs of BMP adoption to the agricultural operations with the social benefits to be derived from the improved water quality. In this paper we develop a benefits transfer model to provide estimates of the economic benefits of properly implemented and effective Best Management Practices (BMP) throughout the state of Florida. These benefit estimates can be used in a cost-benefit framework to determine the optimal level of BMP adoption throughout the state of Florida and provide a framework for other regions to estimate the potential benefits of BMP-mediated water quality improvements.
miRNA-497 Negatively Regulates the Growth and Motility of Chondrosarcoma Cells by Targeting Cdc25A
Authors: Lu Yandong , Li Fangguo , Xu Tao , Sun Jie
Published: March 2016

Chondrosarcoma (CHS) is the second most common malignant bone sarcoma with increased risk of invasion and metastasis. However, the regulatory mechanisms of CHS tumorigenesis remain unknown. Here we investigated the novel role of miR-497 in regulating chondrosarcoma cell growth and cell
cycle arrest. RT-PCR analysis showed that the expression of miR-497 is aberrantly downregulated in human chondrosarcoma samples and cells. After transfection with miR-497 mimic or antagomir, the proliferation and apoptosis of JJ012 and OUMS-27 chondrosarcoma cells were determined by CCK-8
assay and flow cytometric analysis, respectively. Results showed that the proliferation capacity of JJ012 and OUMS-27 cells was significantly decreased by miR-497 overexpression but increased by miR-497 repression. Apoptosis in both cell types was remarkably enhanced by miR-497 mimic but inhibited
by miR-497 antagomir. By bioinformatics and luciferase reporter analysis, Cdc25A was proven to be a direct target of miR-497 in chondrosarcoma cells. Further studies indicated that miR-497 modulates the growth of chondrosarcoma cells by targeting Cdc25A, in which the cell cycle inhibitor p21
is involved through a p53-independent pathway. In conclusion, we demonstrated that miR-497 represents a potential tumor suppressor in human chondrosarcoma that regulates the growth of chondrosarcoma cells by targeting Cdc25A. This may provide a novel therapeutic target for chondrosarcoma.
Inhibition of Liver Carcinoma Cell Invasion and Metastasis by Knockdown of Cullin7 In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Zhang Donghui , Yang Genling , Li Xidong , Xu Cheng , Ge Honglei
Published: March 2016

Cullin7 is an E3 ubiquitin ligase. The Cullin7 protein family functions as a molecular scaffold to coordinate substrate ubiquitination in Skp, Cullin, and F-box-containing complex (SCF complex). Cullin7s control normal development and primary cellular processes and are characterized
by a unique genomic network organization. Less is known about the involvement of Cullin7 with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we found that Cullin7 showed a high expression in HCC tumor tissues, especially in metastatic HCC tumor tissues. Also, there was a negative correlation
between Cullin7 expression and long survival. Silencing of Cullin7 in liver cancer cells can significantly reduce the migration, invasion, and metastatic abilities. Also, detection of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) marker expression showed that Cullin7 promotes epithelial‐mesenchymal
transformation of cancer cells. The results of this study helped to elucidate the oncogene functions of Cullin7 in liver cancers.
THE RISK TO STRUCTURES BUILT NEAR ROADS AND RAILS USED FOR MOVING HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Authors: VAIDOGAS Egidijus Rytas , KISEŽAUSKIENĖ Lina , GIRNIENĖ Ingrida
Published: March 2016

An assessment of parts of transportation infrastructure in terms of hazards to roadside territory is considered. It is suggested to assess individual segments of road and railway network by estimating risks posed by potential fires and explosions on road and rail. Boiling liquid expanding vapour explosion of tanker trucks and tank cars is identified as the most hazardous and likely high consequence accident in the land transport. It is proposed to express the risk to built roadside objects by means of an annual damage frequency. This frequency is considered to be a specific physical characteristic of the road or railway segment under analysis. It is shown that estimating the damage frequency requires assessing effects of a potential explosion on road or rail and developing a fragility function for the roadside object ana­lysed as a potential target. An example case study is presented. It considers a potential thermal damage to a reservoir (stationary tank) built in the vicinity of a highway. The damage can be caused by an explosion of a propane tanker truck. Results of the risk assessment are expressed in terms of probabilities of specific damage events.
EVOLUTION OF GLOBAL RELATIVISTIC JETS: COLLIMATIONS AND EXPANSION WITH kKHI AND THE WEIBEL INSTABILITY
Authors: Nishikawa K.-I. , Frederiksen J. T. , Nordlund Å. , Mizuno Y. , Hardee P. E. , Niemiec J. , Gómez J. L. , Pe’er A. , Duţan I. , Meli A. , Sol H. , Pohl M. , Hartmann D. H.
Published: March 2016

In the study of relativistic jets one of the key open questions is their interaction with the environment. Here we study the initial evolution of both electron–proton (

) and electron–positron (e
±) relativistic jets, focusing on their lateral interaction with ambient plasma. We follow the evolution of toroidal magnetic fields generated by both the kinetic Kelvin–Helmholtz and Mushroom instabilities. For an

jet, the induced magnetic field collimates the jet and electrons are perpendicularly accelerated. As the instabilities saturate and subsequently weaken, the magnetic polarity switches from clockwise to counterclockwise in the middle of the jet. For an e
± jet, we find strong mixing of electrons and positrons with the ambient plasma, resulting in the creation of a bow shock. The merging of current filaments generates density inhomogeneities that initiate a forward shock. Strong jet–ambient plasma mixing prevents a full development of the jet (on the scale studied), revealing evidence for both jet collimation and particle acceleration in the forming bow shock. Differences in the magnetic field structure generated by

and e
± jets may contribute to the polarization properties of the observed emission in AGN jets and gamma-ray bursts.
Le Nigeria, une puissance émergente ou un État failli ?
Authors: Pérouse de Montclos Marc-Antoine
Published: March 2016

Le Nigeria intrigue autant qu’il fait peur par sa capacité de nuisance et de destabilisation régionale. D’un côté, on vante le dynamisme d’une puissance émergente, de l’autre, on déplore son incapacité à endiguer la menace terroriste de Boko Haram. Si, fort de sa puissance démographique et économique, le Nigeria a des ambitions diplomatiques à l’international, la liste des dysfonctionnements est longue : croissance démographique non maîtrisée, chômage des jeunes, corruption généralisée, affairisme de sa classe politique, gabegie de la rente pétrolière, niveaux de criminalité élevés, pauvreté rampante, déliquescence des services publics de base, effondrement du système éducatif, fortes tensions régionalistes, ethniques et religieuses et l’insurrection djihadiste de Boko Haram dans le Nord-Est depuis 2009 n’est jamais que le énième avatar d’un État trop souvent incapable de réguler les conflits autrement que par une répression aveugle et une corruption massive. De fait la fin de la dictature militaire et l’instauration d’une IV e République parlementaire n’ont pas permis de régler les problèmes. Cependant cette démocratie très imparfaite n’a pas complètement démérité car contrairement à l’Afrique francophone, ce pays n’a jamais connu de partis uniques ou de présidents à vie, même du temps des juntes militaires. Pour comprendre la complexité du Nigéria, il convient alors de garder raison.
L’héritage spatial de l’ Indirect Rule au Nigeria
Authors: Hiribarren Vincent
Published: March 2016

Cet article analyse les dimensions spatiales de la politique britannique de l’ Indirect Rule dans le Nigeria de l’époque coloniale. Il examine à la fois la création et les modifications des frontières régionales sur des critères historiques et ethnolinguistiques. Cet article entend démontrer que le rôle politique et constitutionnel donné à ces frontières pendant la décolonisation du Nigeria est essentiel pour comprendre les dynamiques spatiales du Nigeria du XXI e siècle.
Minorités et conflits identitaires au sein de la Fédération nigériane : une analyse linguistique et géopolitique
Authors: Caron Bernard
Published: March 2016

Le Nigeria est une Fédération composée d’une inextricable mosaïque linguistique et ethnique correspondant à plus de 500 langues minoritaires, dominées par les trois entités culturelles que forment les Haoussa, les Yorouba et les Igbo. On observe dans le pays la concurrence de deux tendances : une tendance à l’intégration nationale, à la centralisation, via le fédéralisme, et, d’autre part, une tendance à la division en faveur d’unités de plus en plus petites créées par fissiparité, afin d’assurer la représentation des minorités, via la multiplication des États et des collectivités locales à base ethnique. La Fédération est ainsi passée de douze États en 1967, à 19 en 1976, puis 36 en 1996. L’article étudie les mécanismes à l’œuvre dans le problème des minorités au Nigeria, qui sont le principe fédéral, le principe de l’indigénisme, et le principe de l’égalité dans l’allocation budgétaire des États fédérés et des collectivités locales.
Boko Haram et la souveraineté du Nigeria : une histoire de frontières
Authors: Pérouse de Montclos Marc-Antoine
Published: March 2016

Partie d’une région périphérique dans le nord-est du Nigeria, l’insurrection djihadiste de Boko Haram a fini par ébranler le pays le plus peuplé d’Afrique. En effet, elle a obligé les autorités à repenser la géopolitique des frontières du lac Tchad et, pour la première fois depuis l’indépendance, à admettre le principe d’une intervention de troupes étrangères sur leur territoire, en l’occurrence dans le cadre d’une coalition internationale avec les pays limitrophes, à savoir le Tchad, le Niger et, dans une moindre mesure, le Cameroun. Cet article analyse ainsi la façon dont le panislamisme de Boko Haram revient à nier la réalité du Nigeria tel qu’il existe dans des limites héritées de la colonisation. Face à l’affirmation militaire de la souveraineté nationale des États de la région, il montre également en quoi une frontière poreuse se définit d’abord par les usages que l’on en fait.
Les visages multiples du christianisme au Nigeria : histoire, dynamique, influence et défis
Authors: De Volder Jan
Published: March 2016

Au Nigeria, l’islam – enraciné depuis des siècles dans le Nord – se sent de plus en plus menacé par le dynamisme des missionnaires chrétiens. Arrivé depuis les côtes atlantiques et le fleuve Niger au XIX e siècle, le christianisme a d’abord vu son expansion vers les régions sahéliennes freinées par le colonisateur britannique, qui voulait préserver l’influence de ses alliés musulmans du califat de Sokoto. Ces dernières décennies, ce sont surtout les Églises africaines néopentecôtistes qui ont développé le christianisme dans le nord du Nigeria. À l’échelle du pays, les chrétiens restent toutefois divisés entre les Églises anglicane, catholique romaine, protestantes traditionnelles et une pléiade de nouvelles Églises de la mouvance évangélique ou pentecôtiste. La Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) est censée les rassembler mais son unité a été gravement minée par la crise de Boko Haram. Cela étant, une « guerre de religion » peut toujours être évitée car les insurgés ont d’abord et avant tout développé leur conflit à l’intérieur du monde musulman.
Comprendre l’organisation spatiale de Lagos, 1955-2015
Authors: Lamoureux David
Published: March 2016

Depuis le début des années 2000, Lagos, ancienne capitale du Nigeria, suscite l’intérêt des universitaires comme celui du grand public. Pourtant, malgré ce regain d’intérêt, la ville reste très largement décrite dans des termes peu valorisants. Certains universitaires n’hésitent pas à décrire son évolution comme étant « maladive » tandis que les termes « enfer » ou « anarchie » sont le plus souvent associés par la presse à la mégapole africaine. Il est vrai que sa superficie est difficilement mesurable et sa croissance démographique si rapide qu’elle rend toute mesure presque immédiatement obsolète. C’est cette image d’une ville supposée anarchique que nous analysons. Cet article met l’accent sur l’importance des politiques « formelles » d’aménagement de la ville dans le développement d’espaces urbains « informels » perçus comme étant les symptômes de son anarchie supposée.
La rationalité normative : impulsions hégéliennes
Authors: Kervégan Jean-François
Published: March 2016

L’article examine les ressources que la pensée de Hegel pourrait offrir à la théorie actuelle de la rationalité normative, en particulier grâce au concept d’éthicité (Sittlichkeit) qu’elle propose. L’examen porte d’abord sur la théorie hegélienne du « droit abstrait », qui développe une vision originale du rapport entre « droit subjectif » et « droit objectif ». Sont ensuite étudiés les rapports entre normativité juridique et normativité morale, à propos desquels les arguments de Hegel convergent jusqu’à un certain point avec ceux du positivisme juridique. Enfin, l’article analyse la théorie institutionnelle des « dispositions » éthiques de Hegel, qui cherche à dépasser l’opposition entre vision subjectiviste et vision objectiviste de la société.
La lutte pour la reconnaissance entre États, nations et cultures
Authors: Caillé Alain
Published: March 2016

La lutte pour la reconnaissance thématisée par Hegel ne concerne pas seulement les sujets individuels. Elle est tout aussi active entre États, nations et cultures. Mais on ne peut bien la comprendre qu’en croisant l’analyse de Hegel avec les découvertes de Marcel Mauss dans l’Essai sur le don. Individuels ou collectifs, les sujets luttent pour se faire reconnaître comme des donateurs.
Le social-libéralisme, du label politique au concept scientifique
Authors: Rioufreyt Thibaut
Published: March 2016

Équivalent de social-traître pour les uns, de social-démocrate moderne pour les autres, le vocable « social-libéral » connaît un succès massif dans le débat politico-médiatique depuis le milieu des années 1990. Rompant avec les usages ordinaires du terme, cet article se propose d’esquisser les contours d’un véritable concept de social-libéralisme. À partir de l’analyse de contenu de 2000 textes d’intellectuels et de responsables politiques du Parti socialiste, il s’agit d’entrer dans le vif de la chair discursive et de répondre de manière documentée à une question centrale pour le devenir de la gauche européenne : comment les élites social-démocrates ont intégré dans leur manière de penser et de gouverner des éléments issus du néo-libéralisme et comment tentent-ils de le légitimer théoriquement ?
La conversion managériale des hauts fonctionnaires : un mythe utile pour l’Etat Social local français ?
Authors: Alcaras Jean-Robert , Marrel Guillaume , Marchand Christèle , Nonjon Magali
Published: March 2016

Le New Public Management s’est-il vraiment diffusé partout, d’une façon large et homogène ? A partir d’une recherche sur les discours et les pratiques d’une catégorie bien particulière de hauts fonctionnaires territoriaux en France (ceux qui sont responsables des politiques sociales décentralisées), cet article discute d’une façon critique cette hypothèse de la convergence vers le NPM. Derrière une convergence discursive, superficielle et partielle, on observe plutôt des appropriations hétérogènes et contextualisées des nouveaux référentiels du management public conduisant souvent au renouvellement des formes bureaucratiques. Dans un contexte qui les fragilise, les responsables publics semblent surtout se saisir du ‘management’ comme d’une ressource de légitimation professionnelle. En adoptant ainsi une posture managériale bien utile, ils contribuent eux-mêmes à entretenir le mythe de la convergence. Remarques à l’intention des praticiens Nous présentons ici des résultats issus d’une étude approfondie sur les discours et les pratiques de direction du demi-millier de hauts fonctionnaires responsables des politiques sociales décentralisées dans les départements français. Quels rapports entretiennent-ils avec le vocabulaire managérial et les outils de gestion, alors même que leur secteur est marqué par des réactions contradictoires face aux logiques économiques et gestionnaires ? Le renouvellement du management public auquel ils contribuent ne saurait être assimilé à une importation des méthodes éprouvées dans le secteur privé : il semble surtout répondre aux nouveaux impératifs sur lesquels leur légitimité professionnelle doit aujourd’hui se construire.
Une figure de l’engagement : le métier de sociologue selon Marc Uhalde
Authors: Hinault Anne-Claude
Published: March 2016

Résumé La question de l'engagement des sociologues est classiquement renvoyée à la « neutralité axiologique » définie par Max Weber dans son ouvrage Lesavant et le politique. Elle se trouve pourtant réinterrogée par la redéfinition des rapports entre sciences et société d'une part, par les pratiques professionnelles d'intervention et de formation d'acteurs sociaux d'autre part, qui conduisent nécessairement à un travail de réflexivité sur la posture et la pratique du métier de sociologue. Marc Uhalde, par sa trajectoire professionnelle, ses activités et ses travaux de recherche, a largement contribué à étayer une figure singulière de l'engagement du sociologue dans la cité.
L’intervention dans l’urgence, une opportunité à saisir pour le sociologue praticien ?
Authors: Lévis Grégory
Published: March 2016

Résumé Marc Uhalde notait en 2001 une transformation des demandes d'intervention sociologique et donc des formes de réponse que devait pouvoir proposer une sociologie de l'intervention en entreprise (Uhalde, 2001). Quatorze ans plus tard, qu'en est-il ? Que peut-on aujourd'hui dire des caractéristiques des demandes qui nous sont adressées et donc sur la manière d'y répondre, en sociologues praticiens, avec les spécificités de cette sociologie intervenante que Marc Uhalde a essayé dans ses travaux de mettre en lumière ? En quoi, tant la question des mécanismes des crises de régulation que les dilemmes de l'intervention sociologique, deux sujets centraux de ses réflexions, sont-ils aujourd'hui pleinement d'actualité dans notre pratique au service des organisations de travail ? Quelles nouvelles questions, quels nouveaux défis se posent néanmoins aux praticiens en 2015 ? C'est à ces questions que nous avons tenté de donner quelques pistes de réponse à l'occasion du colloque en hommage à Marc Uhalde, le 26 mars dernier. Cet article reprend et prolonge ces quelques réflexions.
L’éthique au cœur de la pratique des sociologues-intervenants
Authors: Robert-Tanguy Philippe
Published: March 2016

Résumé Au-delà du diagnostic sociologique dont les méthodes et compétences afférentes sont relativement balisées, les pratiques et compétences mobilisées par les sociologues praticiens dans l'accompagnement des organisations sont peu explicitées. Un groupe d'analyse de pratiques animé pendant deux ans par Marc Uhalde et Mokhtar Kaddouri a mis en évidence les nombreuses tensions auxquelles le praticien est confronté lors de ces démarches et qui caractérisent ce type d'intervention par rapport à d'autres. L'analyse de pratiques montre que les praticiens ont développé des compétences éthiques comme principales ressources pour se protéger de ces tensions.
Le laboratoire central de Robert Pinget
Authors: Mégevand Martin
Published: March 2016

« Le laboratoire central de Robert Pinget » présente quelques-uns des nombreux textes non publiés de Robert Pinget (1919-1997) conservés à la Bibliothèque littéraire Jacques Doucet. L’article s’appuie sur des extraits de chutes de Mahu ou le matériau, le premier roman publié de Robert Pinget en 1952, de « Fonfon », une nouvelle refondue dans Passacaille (1969), et d’un texte inclassable intitulé « Messire Jonas » écrit au début des années cinquante. Il s’agit de proposer des pistes méthodologiques d’étude et d’organisation de ces textes et documents, placés en relation avec l’œuvre publiée de l’auteur. L’approche choisie vise à reconstituer quelques caractéristiques fondamentales du geste esthétique de Robert Pinget, parmi lesquels l’inachèvement, l’effacement et diverses procédures de négociation. Cet article s’inscrit dans le cadre des recherches menées par Anne Herschberg Pierrot sur le style de genèse.
Introduction
Authors: Muñoz Jorge
Published: March 2016

Ce numéro spécial de Terminal vise à poser un regard sur la relation que l’on peut établir entre les technologies et les conditions de travail. En partant de l’idée que le déterminisme technologique n’est pas aussi univoque que l’on peut penser. « Toute technologie offre aussi des opportunités pour l’organisation », nous explique E. Alsène [Alsène, 1990]. Si les salariés, qui utilisent les nouvelles technologies, peuvent voir leurs conditions de travail s’intensifier, celles-ci peuvent donner lieu également à l’émergence d’un rapport différent au travail.
Les enjeux de la numérisation et de l’ouverture d’archives : le point de vue des professionnels
Authors: Boutet Annabelle , Roudaut Karine
Published: March 2016

Les nouvelles situations de travail, engendrées par les TIC sont porteuses de mutations socio-organisationnelles comme des formes nouvelles de gestion des connaissances au sein des entreprises et dans les communautés de pratiques.
Le réseau personnel de gestion des connaissances et la redéfinition du travail
Authors: Deuff Olivier Le
Published: March 2016

Nous souhaitons montrer que la démarche du PKM (personal knowledge management) constitue une nouvelle manière de considérer l’organisation des connaissances ainsi que la définition habituellement conférée au travail. Nous n’avons donc pas l’intention de conforter l’idée d’une mort imminente1 du Knowledge Management (KM) mais plutôt d’esquisser de nouvelles manières d’envisager son déploiement et son évolution.
Performance Analysis of a Markovian Queuing System with Reneging and Retention of Reneged Customers
Authors: Kumar Rakesh
Published: March 2016

In this chapter a finite capacity single server Markovian queuing system with reneging and retention of reneged customers is considered. It is envisaged that a reneging customer may be convinced to stay for his service if some customer retention mechanism is employed. Thus, there is a probability that a reneging customer may be retained. Steady-state balance equations of the model are derived using Markov chain theory. The steady-state probabilities of system size are obtained explicitly by using iterative method. The performance measures like expected system size, expected rate of reneging, and expected rate of retention are obtained. The effect of probability of retaining a reneging customer on the performance measures is studied. The economic analysis of the model is performed by developing a cost model. The optimum service rate and optimum system capacity are obtained using classical optimization and pattern search techniques. The optimization carried out helps to identify the optimum customer retention strategy from among many.
Floaters for Oil and Gas Exploration in the Arctic - A Review
Authors: Ahmed Aziz , Qian Xudong , Tian Peng Benjamin Xia , Chen Zhuo , Choudhary Ankit , Hussain Anis
Published: March 2016

The Arctic is an exciting frontier in the oil and gas exploration regime. A number of studies estimate that the Arctic holds about one fourth of the all undiscovered oil and gas reserves in the world. This implies a forthcoming race for the oil and gas exploration in this pristine and fragile region. Due to their relatively small environmental footprint and versatility, floating platforms have strong potential in becoming the most suitable exploration and production option for a wide range of water depths. However, compared to fixed platforms in the Arctic, research and developments associated with the application of floating platform in the arctic is extremely rare. Based on extensive literature review, this paper aims to provide a starting point towards the development of site specific floating platform solution for oil and gas exploration and production in the arctic.

The literatures studied include research works and industrial reports since the 70's and 80's to current on-going developments. The topics reviewed comprise suitable deployment regions for the arctic floaters as well as a wide variety of floaters both in conceptual and deployment phase. This paper also briefly presents various approaches to predict the effect of ice load on floaters as well as some literature review on ice management and oil spill response. The focus of this review paper comprise of theoretical, experimental as well as practical research and developments in the field of arctic floaters both by academics and industrial experts.

The Arctic region is protected by increasingly stringent local and international maritime laws and environmental protection laws and calls for extreme caution from engineering perspective in developing oil and gas exploration systems. This paper points towards the best practices to safely approach the oil and gas exploration in the Arctic based on academic research findings and industrial experiences. Comparison of the wide variety of floaters conceptualized or developed for the Arctic, aids the new studies on the similar theme to set onto the right course. Accumulation of several empirical, semi empirical and analytical methods for the prediction ice loads on a floater assists in a quick estimation of ice loads on the floaters. This section also points towards several competing detailed assessment methodologies to predict dynamic ice loads on the floaters. The literature reviews of ice management and oil spill responses make the reader aware of the resources to identify the recent developments in these fields.

Based on systematic and focused literature review of a wide range of academic studies and industrial reports, this paper briefly assimilates the state of the art on arctic floaters. This review paper targets to infer some useful initial information, on the future development projects involving floaters for oil and gas exploration in the Arctic.
Implications of the introduction of laboratory demand management at primary care clinics in South Africa on laboratory expenditure
Authors: Mahomed Ozayr H. , Lekalakala Ruth , Asmall Shaidah , Cassim Naseem
Published: March 2016

Background: Diagnostic health laboratory services are regarded as an integral part of the national health infrastructure across all countries. Clinical laboratory tests contribute substantially to health system goals of increasing quality of care and improving patient outcomes.Objectives: This study aimed to analyse current laboratory expenditures at the primary healthcare (PHC) level in South Africa as processed by the National Health Laboratory Service and to determine the potential cost savings of introducing laboratory demand management.Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional analysis of laboratory expenditures for the 2013/2014 financial year across 11 pilot National Health Insurance health districts was conducted. Laboratory expenditure tariff codes were cross-tabulated to the PHC essential laboratory tests list (ELL) to determine inappropriate testing. Data were analysed using a Microsoft Access database and Excel software.Results: Approximately R35 million South African Rand (10%) of the estimated R339 million in expenditures was for tests that were not listed within the ELL. Approximately 47% of expenditure was for laboratory tests that were indicated in the algorithmic management of patients on antiretroviral treatment. The other main cost drivers for non-ELL testing included full blood count and urea, as well as electrolyte profiles usually requested to support management of patients on antiretroviral treatment.Conclusions: Considerable annual savings of up to 10% in laboratory expenditure are possible at the PHC level by implementing laboratory demand management. In addition, to achieve these savings, a standardised PHC laboratory request form and some form of electronic gatekeeping system that must be supported by an educational component should be implemented.