bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eva Jeppsson Grassman and Anna Whitaker (eds.) (2013). Ageing with Disability. A Lifecourse Perspective. Bristol: Policy Press, 142 pp. ISBN 978 1 44730 522 4 (hardback)
Authors: D´astous Valerie
Published: December 2014

Not Available.
Importance of Ship Emissions to Local Summertime Ozone Production in the Mediterranean Marine Boundary Layer: A Modeling Study
Authors: Gencarelli Christian , Hedgecock Ian , Sprovieri Francesca , Schürmann Gregor , Pirrone Nicola
Published: December 2014

Ozone concentrations in the Mediterranean area regularly exceed the maximum levels set by the EU Air Quality Directive, 2008/50/CE, a maximum 8-h mean of 120 μg·m-3, in the summer, with consequences for both human health and agriculture. There are a number of reasons for this: the particular geographical and meteorological conditions in the Mediterranean play a part, as do anthropogenic ozone precursor emissions from around the Mediterranean and continental Europe. Ozone concentrations measured on-board the Italian Research Council’s R. V. Urania during summer oceanographic campaigns between 2000 and 2010 regularly exceeded 60 ppb, even at night. The WRF/Chem (Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model coupled with Chemistry) model has been used to simulate tropospheric chemistry during the periods of the measurement campaigns, and then, the same simulations were repeated, excluding the contribution of maritime traffic in the Mediterranean to the anthropogenic emissions inventory. The differences in the model output suggest that, in large parts of the coastal zone of the Mediterranean, ship emissions contribute to 3 and 12 ppb to ground level daily average ozone concentrations. Near busy shipping lanes, up to 40 ppb differences in the hourly average ozone concentrations were found. It seems that ship emissions could be a significant factor in the exceedance of the EU directive on air quality in large areas of the Mediterranean Basin.
Objective Neuropsychological Deficits in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: What Remains Beyond Symptom Similarity?
Authors: Pineau Hélène , Marchand André , Guay Stéphane
Published: December 2014

This exploratory study intends to characterize the neuropsychological profile in persons with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) using objective measures of cognitive performance. A neuropsychological battery of tests for attention, memory and executive functions was administered to four groups: PTSD (n = 25), mTBI (n = 19), subjects with two formal diagnoses: Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI/PTSD) (n = 6) and controls (n = 25). Confounding variables, such as medical, developmental or neurological antecedents, were controlled and measures of co-morbid conditions, such as depression and anxiety, were considered. The PTSD and mTBI/PTSD groups reported more anxiety and depressive symptoms. They also presented more cognitive deficits than the mTBI group. Since the two PTSD groups differ in severity of PTSD symptoms but not in severity of depression and anxiety symptoms, the PTSD condition could not be considered as the unique factor affecting the results. The findings underline the importance of controlling for confounding medical and psychological co-morbidities in the evaluation and treatment of PTSD populations, especially when a concomitant mTBI is also suspected.
Recent Developments in R.F. Magnetron Sputtered Thin Films for pH Sensing Applications—An Overview
Authors: Maurya D. , Sardarinejad A. , Alameh K.
Published: December 2014

pH sensors are widely used in chemical and biological applications. Metal oxides-based pH sensors have many attractive features including insolubility, stability, mechanical strength, electrocatalyst and manufacturing technology. Various metal oxide thin films prepared by radio frequency (R.F.) magnetron sputtering have attractive features, including high pH sensitivity, fast response, high resolution, good stability and reversibility as well as potential for measuring pH under conditions that are not favourable for the commonly used glass electrodes-based pH sensors. In addition, thin film pH sensors prepared by R.F. magnetron sputtering offer many advantages, such as ease of packaging, low cost through the use of standard microfabrication processes, miniaturisation, capability of measuring pH at high temperatures, ruggedness and disposability. In this paper, recent development of R.F. magnetron sputtered thin films for pH sensing applications are reviewed.
The Information Geometry of Bregman Divergences and Some Applications in Multi-Expert Reasoning
Authors: Adamčík Martin
Published: December 2014

The aim of this paper is to develop a comprehensive study of the geometry involved in combining Bregman divergences with pooling operators over closed convex sets in a discrete probabilistic space. A particular connection we develop leads to an iterative procedure, which is similar to the alternating projection procedure by Csiszár and Tusnády. Although such iterative procedures are well studied over much more general spaces than the one we consider, only a few authors have investigated combining projections with pooling operators. We aspire to achieve here a comprehensive study of such a combination. Besides, pooling operators combining the opinions of several rational experts allows us to discuss possible applications in multi-expert reasoning.
A Review on the Role of Vibrational Spectroscopy as An Analytical Method to Measure Starch Biochemical and Biophysical Properties in Cereals and Starchy Foods
Authors: Cozzolino D. , Degner S. , Eglinton J.
Published: December 2014

Starch is the major component of cereal grains and starchy foods, and changes in its biophysical and biochemical properties (e.g., amylose, amylopectin, pasting, gelatinization, viscosity) will have a direct effect on its end use properties (e.g., bread, malt, polymers). The use of rapid and non-destructive methods to study and monitor starch properties, such as gelatinization, retrogradation, water absorption in cereals and starchy foods, is of great interest in order to improve and assess their quality. In recent years, near infrared reflectance (NIR) and mid infrared (MIR) spectroscopy have been explored to predict several quality parameters, such as those generated by instrumental methods commonly used in routine analysis like the rapid visco analyser (RVA) or viscometers. In this review, applications of both NIR and MIR spectroscopy to measure and monitor starch biochemical (amylose, amylopectin, starch) and biophysical properties (e.g., pasting properties) will be presented and discussed.
Mucoadhesive Microparticles for Gastroretentive Delivery: Preparation, Biodistribution and Targeting Evaluation
Authors: Hou Jing-Yi , Gao Li-Na , Meng Fan-Yun , Cui Yuan-Lu
Published: December 2014

The aim of this research was to prepare and characterize alginate-chitosan mucoadhesive microparticles containing puerarin. The microparticles were prepared by an emulsification-internal gelatin method using a combination of chitosan and Ca2+ as cationic components and alginate as anions. Surface morphology, particle size, drug loading, encapsulation efficiency and swelling ratio, in vitro drug released, in vitro evaluation of mucoadhesiveness and Fluorescence imaging of the gastrointestinal tract were determined. After optimization of the formulation, the encapsulation efficiency was dramatically increased from 70.3% to 99.2%, and a highly swelling ratio was achieved with a change in particle size from 50.3 ± 11.2 μm to 124.7 ± 25.6 μm. In ethanol induced gastric ulcers, administration of puerarin mucoadhesive microparticles at doses of 150 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, 450 mg/kg and 600 mg/kg body weight prior to ethanol ingestion significantly protected the stomach ulceration. Consequently, significant changes were observed in inflammatory cytokines, such as prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and interleukin1β (IL-1β), in stomach tissues compared with the ethanol control group. In conclusion, core-shell type pH-sensitive mucoadhesive microparticles loaded with puerarin could enhance puerarin bioavailability and have the potential to alleviate ethanol-mediated gastric ulcers.
Two New Lyngbyatoxin Derivatives from the Cyanobacterium, Moorea producens
Authors: Jiang Weina , Tan Satoshi , Hanaki Yusuke , Irie Kazuhiro , Uchida Hajime , Watanabe Ryuichi , Suzuki Toshiyuki , Sakamoto Bryan , Kamio Michiya , Nagai Hiroshi
Published: December 2014

The toxin-producing cyanobacterium, Moorea producens, is a known causative organism of food poisoning and seaweed dermatitis (also known as “swimmer’s itch”). Two new toxic compounds were isolated and structurally elucidated from an ethyl acetate extract of M. producens collected from Hawaii. Analyses of HR-ESI-MS and NMR spectroscopies, as well as optical rotations and CD spectra indicated two new lyngbyatoxin derivatives, 2-oxo-3(R)-hydroxy-lyngbyatoxin A (1) and 2-oxo-3(R)-hydroxy-13-N-desmethyl-lyngbyatoxin A (2). The cytotoxicity and lethal activities of 1 and 2 were approximately 10- to 150-times less potent than lyngbyatoxin A. Additionally, the binding activities of 1 and 2 possessed 10,000-times lower affinity for the protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ)-C1B peptide when compared to lyngbyatoxin A. These findings suggest that these new lyngbyatoxin derivatives may mediate their acute toxicities through a non-PKC activation pathway.
Marine Nucleosides: Structure, Bioactivity, Synthesis and Biosynthesis
Authors: Huang Ri-Ming , Chen Yin-Ning , Zeng Ziyu , Gao Cheng-Hai , Su Xiangdong , Peng Yan
Published: December 2014

Nucleosides are glycosylamines that structurally form part of nucleotide molecules, the building block of DNA and RNA. Both nucleosides and nucleotides are vital components of all living cells and involved in several key biological processes. Some of these nucleosides have been obtained from a variety of marine resources. Because of the biological importance of these compounds, this review covers 68 marine originated nucleosides and their synthetic analogs published up to June 2014. The review will focus on the structures, bioactivities, synthesis and biosynthetic processes of these compounds.
The Chemistry of Curcumin: From Extraction to Therapeutic Agent
Authors: Priyadarsini Kavirayani
Published: December 2014

Curcumin, a pigment from turmeric, is one of the very few promising natural products that has been extensively investigated by researchers from both the biological and chemical point of view. While there are several reviews on the biological and pharmacological effects of curcumin, chemistry reviews are comparatively scarcer. In this article, an overview of different aspects of the unique chemistry research on curcumin will be discussed. These include methods for the extraction from turmeric, laboratory synthesis methods, chemical and photochemical degradation and the chemistry behind its metabolism. Additionally other chemical reactions that have biological relevance like nucleophilic addition reactions, and metal chelation will be discussed. Recent advances in the preparation of new curcumin nanoconjugates with metal and metal oxide nanoparticles will also be mentioned. Directions for future investigations to be undertaken in the chemistry of curcumin have also been suggested.
Curcumin and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Major Mode of Action through Stimulating Endogenous Intestinal Alkaline Phosphatase
Authors: Ghosh Siddhartha , Gehr Todd , Ghosh Shobha
Published: December 2014

Curcumin, an active ingredient in the traditional herbal remedy and dietary spice turmeric (Curcuma longa), has significant anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic kidney disease (CKD), an inflammatory disease, can lead to end stage renal disease resulting in dialysis and transplant. Furthermore, it is frequently associated with other inflammatory disease such as diabetes and cardiovascular disorders. This review will focus on the clinically relevant inflammatory molecules that play a role in CKD and associated diseases. Various enzymes, transcription factors, growth factors modulate production and action of inflammatory molecules; curcumin can blunt the generation and action of these inflammatory molecules and ameliorate CKD as well as associated inflammatory disorders. Recent studies have shown that increased intestinal permeability results in the leakage of pro-inflammatory molecules (cytokines and lipopolysaccharides) from gut into the circulation in diseases such as CKD, diabetes and atherosclerosis. This change in intestinal permeability is due to decreased expression of tight junction proteins and intestinal alkaline phosphatase (IAP). Curcumin increases the expression of IAP and tight junction proteins and corrects gut permeability. This action reduces the levels of circulatory inflammatory biomolecules. This effect of curcumin on intestine can explain why, despite poor bioavailability, curcumin has potential anti-inflammatory effects in vivo and beneficial effects on CKD.
Multitarget Molecular Hybrids of Cinnamic Acids
Authors: Peperidou Aikaterini , Kapoukranidou Dorothea , Kontogiorgis Christos , Hadjipavlou-Litina Dimitra
Published: December 2014

In an attempt to synthesize potential new multitarget agents, 11 novel hybrids incorporating cinnamic acids and paracetamol, 4-/7-hydroxycoumarin, benzocaine, p-aminophenol and m-aminophenol were synthesized. Three hybrids—2e, 2a, 2g—and 3b were found to be multifunctional agents. The hybrid 2e derived from the phenoxyphenyl cinnamic acid and m-acetamidophenol showed the highest lipoxygenase (LOX) inhibition and analgesic activity (IC50 = 0.34 μΜ and 98.1%, whereas the hybrid 3b of bromobenzyloxycinnamic acid and hymechromone exhibited simultaneously good LOX inhibitory activity (IC50 = 50 μΜ) and the highest anti-proteolytic activity (IC50= 5 μΜ). The hybrid 2a of phenyloxyphenyl acid with paracetamol showed a high analgesic activity (91%) and appears to be a promising agent for treating peripheral nerve injuries. Hybrid 2g which has an ester and an amide bond presents an interesting combination of anti-LOX and anti-proteolytic activity. The esters were found very potent and especially those derived from paracetamol and m-acetamidophenol. The amides follow. Based on 2D-structure–activity relationships it was observed that both steric and electronic parameters play major roles in the activity of these compounds. Molecular docking studies point to the fact that allosteric interactions might govern the LOX-inhibitor binding.
Religious Coping, Social Support and Subjective Severity as Predictors of Posttraumatic Growth in People Affected by the Earthquake in Chile on 27/2/2010
Authors: García Felipe , Páez-Rovira Darío , Zurtia Giordana , Martel Héctor , Reyes Alejandro
Published: December 2014

The aim of this research is to study the impact of religious coping, social support and subjective severity on Posttraumatic Growth (PTG) in people who lost their homes after the earthquake in Chile in 2010 and who now live in transitional shelters. One hundred sixteen adult men and women were evaluated using a subjective severity scale, the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI), the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) scale of social support and the Brief RCOPE scale of religious coping. The multiple linear regression analysis shows that social support and positive religious coping have an impact on PTG. On using a bootstrap estimate, it was found that positive religious coping fully mediates the relationship between subjective severity and PTG.
Automated Extraction of the Archaeological Tops of Qanat Shafts from VHR Imagery in Google Earth
Authors: Luo Lei , Wang Xinyuan , Guo Huadong , Liu Chuansheng , Liu Jie , Li Li , Du Xiaocui , Qian Guoquan
Published: December 2014

Qanats in northern Xinjiang of China provide valuable information for agriculturists and anthropologists who seek fundamental understanding of the distribution of qanat water supply systems with regard to water resource utilization, the development of oasis agriculture, and eventually climate change. Only the tops of qanat shafts (TQSs), indicating the course of the qanats, can be observed from space, and their circular archaeological traces can also be seen in very high resolution imagery in Google Earth. The small size of the TQSs, vast search regions, and degraded features make manually extracting them from remote sensing images difficult and costly. This paper proposes an automated TQS extraction method that adopts mathematical morphological processing methods before an edge detecting module is used in the circular Hough transform approach. The accuracy assessment criteria for the proposed method include: (i) extraction percentage (E) = 95.9%, branch factor (B) = 0 and quality percentage (Q) = 95.9% in Site 1; and (ii) extraction percentage (E) = 83.4%, branch factor (B) = 0.058 and quality percentage (Q) = 79.5% in Site 2. Compared with the standard circular Hough transform, the quality percentages (Q) of our proposed method were improved to 95.9% and 79.5% from 86.3% and 65.8% in test sites 1 and 2, respectively. The results demonstrate that wide-area discovery and mapping can be performed much more effectively based on our proposed method.
Design, Characterization and Analysis of a 0.35 μm CMOS SPAD
Authors: Jradi Khalil , Pellion Denis , Ginhac Dominique
Published: December 2014

Most of the works about single-photon detectors rely on Single Photon Avalanche Diodes (SPADs) designed with dedicated technological processes in order to achieve single-photon sensitivity and excellent timing resolution. Instead, this paper focuses on the implementation of high-performance SPADs detectors manufactured in a standard 0.35-micron opto-CMOS technology provided by AMS. We propose a series of low-noise SPADs designed with a variable pitch from 20 µm down to 5 µm. This opens the further way to the integration of large arrays of optimized SPAD pixels with pitch of a few micrometers in order to provide high-resolution single-photon imagers. We experimentally demonstrate that a 20-micron SPAD appears as the most relevant detector in terms of Signal-to-Noise ratio, enabling emergence of large arrays of SPAD.
Traffic Measurement on Multiple Drive Lanes with Wireless Ultrasonic Sensors
Authors: Jeon Soobin , Kwon Eil , Jung Inbum
Published: December 2014

An automated traffic measuring system for use on multiple drive lanes is proposed in this paper. This system, which uses ultrasonic sensors and a lateral scanning method, is suitable for use on real traffic roads. The proposed system can be easily established and maintained in various roadway environments. In addition, the system can be adjusted to measure traffic volumes according to the size and number of drive lanes. This paper describes the results of an experiment that the lateral scanning method can be easily applied to real traffic roads and provide a low error rate and real-time responses. This system can play an important role in accurately measuring traffic volumes as part of an intelligent transportation system.
The Influence of Green Restaurant Decision Formation Using the VAB Model: The Effect of Environmental Concerns upon Intent to Visit
Authors: Teng Yi-Man , Wu Kun-Shan , Huang Di-Man
Published: December 2014

The study investigates consumers’ intent to patron green restaurants by application of the Value-Attitude-Behavior model. The present study examines the interrelationships among consumers’ values, attitudes, and environmental concerns, and explores how they relate to their intentions to visit green restaurants in Taiwan. Data were gathered by face-to-face surveys, conducted by trained interviewers in a variety of locations, including at train stations, supermarkets, department stores, shopping malls, and adult education classes to obtain data from a representative demographic profile. The findings of this study suggest that the personal values and general attitudes positively affect consumers’ intentions to visit a green restaurant. Additionally, the results found personal values and environmental concern have significant influence on the attitude toward green restaurants. Managerial implications and future directions of these findings were also discussed.
Sensitive Quantification of Aflatoxin B1 in Animal Feeds, Corn Feed Grain, and Yellow Corn Meal Using Immunomagnetic Bead-Based Recovery and Real-Time Immunoquantitative-PCR
Authors: Babu Dinesh , Muriana Peter
Published: December 2014

Aflatoxins are considered unavoidable natural mycotoxins encountered in foods, animal feeds, and feed grains. In this study, we demonstrate the application of our recently developed real-time immunoquantitative PCR (RT iq-PCR) assay for sensitive detection and quantification of aflatoxins in poultry feed, two types of dairy feed (1 and 2), horse feed, whole kernel corn feed grains, and retail yellow ground corn meal. Upon testing methanol/water (60:40) extractions of the above samples using competitive direct enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, the aflatoxin content was found to be <20 μg/kg. The RT iq-PCR assay exhibited high antigen hook effect in samples containing aflatoxin levels higher than the quantification limits (0.1–10 μg/kg), addressed by comparing the quantification results of undiluted and diluted extracts. In testing the reliability of the immuno-PCR assay, samples were spiked with 200 μg/kg of aflatoxin B1, but the recovery of spiked aflatoxin was found to be poor. Considering the significance of determining trace levels of aflatoxins and their serious implications for animal and human health, the RT iq-PCR method described in this study can be useful for quantifying low natural aflatoxin levels in complex matrices of food or animal feed samples without the requirement of extra sample cleanup.
L’unique galatomachie découverte à Pergame
Authors: Courtieu Gilles
Published: December 2014

The only galatomachy found in Pergamon.

A small bronze plate from the Pergamon Museum offers a new point of view on the confrontation between the Attalid dynasty and its opponents, mostly Galatians. The scene displays archetypes, such as the Galatian warrior, depicted here as a Celt. Royal troops are also present, and some "Anatolian" individuals. The Attalid troops don’t occupy much space, but are remarkable for their organized position as well as the Macedonian emblems they bear, a fact that confirms that for this monarchy, the unchanging military reference remains the Argead Macedonia.
Acetabular cup liner and prosthetic head exchange to increase the head diameter for management of recurrent luxation of a prosthetic hip in two dogs
Authors: Sidebotham C. , Marcellin-Little D. J. , Roe S. C.
Published: December 2014

Component malalignment and impingement are possible causes of recurrent luxation following total hip replacement in the dog. In the two cases presented in this report, luxation that was probably due to impingement was managed by exchanging the standard 17 mm prosthetic head for a 24 mm prosthetic head. This required removal of the original acetabular cup liner and placement of a new polyethylene liner that would accept the 24 mm head into the stable acetabular shell. In the first case, a 50 kg Malamute dog, recurrent luxation was initially managed by component alignment revision, iliofemoral suture, triple pelvic osteotomy and a novel lasso technique, without long-term success. After exchanging the head and cup liner, luxation did not recur over a 12-month period. In the second case, a 65 kg Newfoundland dog, impingement was suspected after a second luxation event. Luxation did not recur during the nine months after exchange of the head and cup liner. The larger prosthetic head used in these two cases increased the impingement-free range-of-motion of the joint and increased the translation distance required for luxation (jump distance).
A study on the inhibitory mechanism for cholesterol absorption by α-cyclodextrin administration
Authors: Furune Takahiro , Ikuta Naoko , Ishida Yoshiyuki , Okamoto Hinako , Nakata Daisuke , Terao Keiji , Sakamoto Norihiro
Published: December 2014

Background: Micelle formation of cholesterol with lecithin and bile salts is a key process for intestinal absorption of lipids. Some dietary fibers commonly used to reduce the lipid content in the body are thought to inhibit lipid absorption by binding to bile salts and decreasing the lipid solubility. Amongst these, α-cyclodextrin (α-CD) is reportedly one of the most powerful dietary fibers for decreasing blood cholesterol. However, it is difficult to believe that α-CD directly removes cholesterol because it has a very low affinity for cholesterol and its mechanism of action is less well understood than those of other dietary fibers. To identify this mechanism, we investigated the interaction of α-CD with lecithin and bile salts, which are essential components for the dissolution of cholesterol in the small intestine, and the effect of α-CD on micellar solubility of cholesterol.

Results: α-CD was added to Fed-State Simulated Intestinal Fluid (FeSSIF), and precipitation of a white solid was observed. Analytical data showed that the precipitate was a lecithin and α-CD complex with a molar ratio of 1:4 or 1:5. The micellar solubility of cholesterol in the mixture of FeSSIF and α-CD was investigated, and found to decrease through lecithin precipitation caused by the addition of α-CD, in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, each of several other water-soluble dietary fibers was added to the FeSSIF, and no precipitate was generated.

Conclusion: This study suggests that α-CD decreases the micellar solubility of cholesterol in the lumen of the small intestine via the precipitation of lecithin from bile salt micelles by complex formation with α-CD. It further indicates that the lecithin precipitation effect on the bile salt micelles by α-CD addition clearly differs from addition of other water-soluble dietary fibers. The decrease in micellar cholesterol solubility in the FeSSIF was the strongest with α-CD addition.
Synthesis of modified cyclic and acyclic dextrins and comparison of their complexation ability
Authors: Tuza Kata , Jicsinszky László , Sohajda Tamás , Puskás István , Fenyvesi Éva
Published: December 2014

We compared the complex forming ability of α-, β- and γ-cyclodextrins (α-CD, β-CD and γ-CD) with their open ring analogs. In addition to the native cyclodextrins also modified cyclodextrins and the corresponding maltooligomers, functionalized with neutral 2-hydroxypropyl moieties, were synthesized. A new synthetic route was worked out via bromination, benzylation, deacetylation and debenzylation to obtain the 2-hydroxypropyl maltooligomer counterparts. The complexation properties of non-modified and modified cyclic and acyclic dextrins were studied and compared by photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS) and capillary electrophoresis (CE) using model guest compounds. In some cases cyclodextrins and their open-ring analogs (acyclodextrins) show similar complexation abilities, while with other guests considerably different behavior was observed depending on the molecular dimensions and chemical characteristics of the guests. This was explained by the enhanced flexibility of the non-closed rings. Even the signs of enantiorecognition were observed for the chloropheniramine/hydroxypropyl maltohexaose system. Further studies are planned to help the deeper understanding of the interactions.
Genetic Polymorphisms of Foxp3 in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Paradowska-Gorycka Agnieszka , Jurkowska Monika , Felis-Giemza Anna , Romanowska-Próchnicka Katarzyna , Manczak Malgorzata , Maslinski Slawomir , Olesinska Marzena
Published: December 2014

Objective.

The aim of the study was to identify 2 polymorphic variants in the promoter region of the Foxp3 gene and their possible association with susceptibility to and severity of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The association between genetic factors and pathogenesis suggests that T cells take part in the induction of RA. The CD4+CD25highFoxp3+ subset of regulatory T cells plays an essential role in preventing autoimmunity and maintaining immune homeostasis.

Methods.

Patients with RA (n = 274) and healthy individuals (n = 295) were examined for −3279 C/A and −924 A/G Foxp3 gene polymorphisms by the polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment-length polymorphism method. Serum Foxp3 levels in patients with RA and controls were measured with ELISA.

Results.

Foxp3 −3279 A and −924 G alleles were associated with significantly elevated risk of RA in the population tested (p = 0.003 and p = 0.004, respectively) compared to the wild-type alleles. Overall, −3279 C/A and −924 A/G Foxp3 gene polymorphisms were in indistinct linkage disequilibrium with D′ = 0.481 and r2 = 0.225. From 4 possible haplotypes, frequencies of 2 (AG and CA) showed significant differences between both examined groups (respectively, p < 0.001 and p = 0.007). After appropriate adjustment of Bonferroni correction for multiple testing, the genotype-phenotype analysis showed no significant correlation of the Foxp3 −3279 C/A and −924 A/G polymorphisms with the disease activity, joint damage, laboratory variables, and extraarticular manifestation in patients with RA. Serum Foxp3 level was significantly higher in patients than in controls (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion.

Current findings indicated that the Foxp3 genetic polymorphism and the Foxp3 protein level may be associated with susceptibility to RA in the Polish population.
PTPN22 R620W Polymorphism and ANCA Disease Risk in White Populations: A Metaanalysis
Authors: Cao Yali , Liu Kuo , Tian Zhigang , Hogan Susan L. , Yang Jiajin , Poulton Caroline J. , Falk Ronald J. , Li Wenge
Published: December 2014

Objective.

No clear consensus has been reached on the PTPN22 R620W polymorphism and anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) disease, especially when stratified by ANCA specificity and disease phenotypes.

Methods.

A metaanalysis was conducted on the PTPN22 R620W polymorphism across 4 studies in 1399 white patients with ANCA disease and 9934 normal control subjects.

Results.

Overall, metaanalysis showed a statistically significant association between the A allele and ANCA disease in all subjects (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.26–1.64, p < 0.00001), and stratification by disease category indicated the A allele was associated with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener’s; GPA; OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.35–2.20, p < 0.0001) and microscopic polyangiitis (MPA; OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.08–2.15, p = 0.02) as compared to controls. However, when stratified by ANCA specificity, the association of the A allele was statistically evident among those with proteinase 3 (PR3) ANCA disease (OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.25–2.430, p = 0.001), with the same trend but not statistically associated with myeloperoxidase ANCA disease (OR 1.94, 95% CI 0.64–5.85, p = 0.24). The marked associations were also demonstrated between this allele with lung (OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.21–2.36, p = 0.002), ENT (OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.45–2.84, p < 0.0001), skin (OR 2.55, 95% CI 1.69–3.84, p < 0.0001), and peripheral neuropathy involvement (OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.39–3.22, p = 0.0005).

Conclusion.

The PTPN22 620W allele confers susceptibility to the occurrence and development of ANCA disease in whites, with specific evidence among subsets with GPA, MPA, and PR3 ANCA.
Polymyositis/dermatomyositis and Malignancy Risk: A Metaanalysis Study
Authors: Yang Zaixing , Lin Feng , Qin Baodong , Liang Yan , Zhong Renqian
Published: December 2014

Objective.

To investigate the association between polymyositis (PM)/dermatomyositis (DM) and risks of malignancy.

Methods.

We searched Pubmed for articles dated before August 16, 2013. Studies were included if they met the following criteria: (1) a cohort or observational study; (2) PM or DM as one of the exposures of interest; (3) cancer as an outcome of interest; and (4) the rate ratio (RR) or standardized incidence ratio (SIR) were available with their 95% CI. We used random-effects or fixed-effects models to calculate the pooled RR according to the heterogeneity test.

Results.

Twenty publications were included. Compared with the general population, the pooled RR for patients with PM, DM, and PM/DM were 1.62 (95% CI 1.19–2.04), 5.50 (4.31–6.70), and 4.07 (3.02–5.12), respectively. The increased risks were more significant in patients within the first year of myositis diagnosis, male patients, and population-based studies (for DM). A significant association was also found between PM or DM and most site-specific malignancies. However, both PM and DM were not associated with stomach and prostate cancers. Significant heterogeneity was found between studies on association between PM/DM and overall malignancy, but not between PM/DM and the majority of site-specific malignancies, suggesting that that inherent malignancy difference may be a major source of heterogeneity.

Conclusion.

The present metaanalysis indicates that PM and DM are significantly associated with increased risks of overall malignancy and most site-specific malignancies. The number of studies on association between PM or DM and some malignancies is too small to draw a firm conclusion. Accordingly, more research is needed for these malignancies.
Le parrainage sportif des PME : Un instrument d'enracinement territorial ?
Authors: Jouny Julien , Phanuel Dominique
Published: December 2014

Cet article souligne la faiblesse de la dimension territoriale et proxémique du parrainage sportif des PME dans la littérature. A contrario, par sérendipité, les résultats de cette recherche exploratoire montrent que le parrainage sportif constitue un instrument de légitimation territoriale de la PME. Un modèle processuel reposant sur 5 dimensions est proposé. Il s’organise autour de trois blocs : les antécédents du parrainage sportif, le parrainage sportif comme source de légitimité et ses impacts relationnels et économiques.
L'approche par les ressources des réseaux d'accompagnement entrepreneurial
Authors: Pluchart Jean-Jacques
Published: December 2014

Les recherches sur les processus d’accompagnement des créateurs d’entreprises et sur la mesure de leurs performances, sont encore émergentes. L’étude restituée dans cet article analyse l’évolution des différentes ressources apportées aux créateurs d’entreprise par les réseaux d’accompagnement et leurs effets sur la pérennité des entreprises accompagnées. L’étude repose sur l’analyse comparée des trajectoires suivies par 37 projets de créations de TME accompagnées par une pépinière d’entreprises d’Ile de France. Elle fait principalement appel à la méthode originale des études de cas narratives quantifiées.
Les mécanismes de contrôle de l'administration en chine. Une « société harmonieuse » peut-elle se construire au détriment de l'État de droit ?
Authors: Li Zhang
Published: December 2014

Résumé Pendant les dix dernières années, pour promouvoir son ambition de créer une « société harmonieuse », la Chine a pris des mesures dans le domaine du contrôle de l’administration. Cependant, à défaut de considérations approfondies, ce processus, incarné par le perfectionnement du Xinfang et la mise en œuvre de la grande médiation judiciaire, a généré des conséquences négatives sur l’affirmation du principe de l’État de droit en Chine. D’où la nécessité de s’interroger sur le vrai sens de l’harmonie sociétale. Ce n’est que lorsque les différentes modalités de contrôle de l’administration seront en harmonie sur le plan juridique que sera éventuellement réalisée une véritable harmonie sociétale qui implique avant tout le respect des principes d’égalité, de légalité et de sécurité juridique.
La politique énergétique au cœur de la modernisation chinoise
Authors: Balme Richard , Romano Giulia Clara
Published: December 2014

Résumé  Malgré la floraison ces dernières années des industries vertes, il n’est pas approprié jusqu’ici de parler d’une « transition énergétique chinoise ». La forte emprise de l’État et de ses grands groupes énergétiques sur la production et la distribution, placé au cœur du développement industriel et maillant l’ensemble du territoire, rend difficile l’émergence d’une « économie bas carbone » et la possibilité d’une réelle transition énergétique à court terme. Malgré l’introduction de mesures d’efficacité et la promotion active des énergies renouvelables, les options adoptées par le gouvernement chinois visent essentiellement la sécurité énergétique du pays, sans qu’une diminution significative de la consommation des énergies carbonées soit encore en vue.
L'arme du pouvoir et le pouvoir des armes : analyse des évolutions contemporaines de l'armée populaire de liberation
Authors: Puig Emmanuel
Published: December 2014

Résumé Parallèlement à sa montée en puissance économique, la Chine refonde et développe ses capacités militaires. Aujourd’hui le régime chinois possède une armée fiable et compétente qui constitue un indéniable attribut de puissance sur la scène internationale. Pourtant, l’évolution des capacités chinoises entraîne de profondes mutations de sa structure de défense. L’acquisition de nouveaux moyens implique des changements doctrinaux, une refonte de certaines structures de commandement, une évolution de la formation et une évolution de la politisation de l’APL. Aussi, les évolutions contemporaines de l’APL ne peuvent-elles être appréhendées selon leur seul aspect capacitaire. Aujourd’hui, alors que la Chine est la deuxième puissance mondiale, ce processus de modernisation militaire est toujours en cours, et il apparait, à bien des égards, complexe car ramifié au-delà du champ de la défense. À partir d’une description structurelle de l’APL aujourd’hui, cet article analyse les étapes fondamentales du processus de transformation militaire qui a eu lieu au cours des vingt dernières années, et cela afin d’éclairer le statut et l’influence politique des forces armées chinoises aujourd’hui.
Le management à l'allemande : un actif méconnu ?
Authors: Lang Gerald , Mottis Nicolas
Published: December 2014

Dans le débat animé que nous connaissons depuis quelques années sur les divergences existant entre les économies française et allemande, une idée fréquemment évoquée est celle d’un « modèle allemand » qui serait globalement plus performant que son pendant français. Sur ce point, l’essentiel des discussions est centré sur les caractéristiques structurelles et macro-économiques de chacun des deux pays. En France, l’accent est plutôt mis sur l’appui que les pouvoirs publics peuvent apporter aux entreprises (système fiscal ou de protection sociale, coût du travail, soutien à des secteurs spécifiques, etc.), alors que, de l’autre côté du Rhin, cette dimension revêt un caractère relativement secondaire. Bizarrement, un aspect est souvent négligé, voire même complètement oublié : le management. Néanmoins, c’est dans le travail au quotidien au sein des entreprises petites et grandes, qu’est mis en œuvre ce « modèle allemand », son succès dépendant beaucoup de la façon dont y sont gérés les projets et les équipes. Cet article s’intéresse donc à certains traits caractéristiques du management à l’allemande, et aux différences qu’il présente avec le management à la française. L’objectif est de compléter l’analyse et la compréhension du « modèle allemand » par une perspective micro-économique, renvoyant davantage aux pratiques concrètes au sein des entreprises qu’aux grands débats macro-économiques.
La politique de l'innovation et les collaborations entreprises-universités : le rôle des instituts Fraunhofer
Authors: Knapp Wolfgang
Published: December 2014

Fondée en 1949, la Fraunhofer Gesellschaft (FhG) est devenue aujourd’hui la plus grande structure de recherche contractuelle en Europe, une recherche qui lui procure plus de 70% de ses ressources (1,6 milliard d’euros sur un budget total annuel de recherche de 1,9 milliard d’euros). Elle rassemble aujourd’hui 66 instituts et centres de recherche répartis sur tout le territoire allemand. L’objectif principal de la FhG est l’application pratique de savoir-faire scientifiques pour contribuer au développement de nouvelles technologies. Son activité repose ainsi sur un équilibre dynamique entre sa contribution à l’innovation et la recherche appliquée. Elle se situe ainsi à mi-chemin entre la recherche fondamentale (qui est le domaine de compétence des universités et d’organismes tels que la Max-Planck-Gesellschaft) et l’industrie. La FhG est l’acteur majeur de l’innovation en Allemagne, sans bénéficier toutefois d’une exclusivité dans ce domaine. La recherche contractuelle est un marché, et comme sur tous les marchés, plusieurs acteurs peuvent présenter des offres concurrentes.
Une stratégie différente de celle de la France : la politique énergétique allemande
Authors: Linkohr Rolf
Published: December 2014

Peu après la catastrophe nucléaire de Fukushima, la chancelière allemande, Angela Merkel, a annoncé un changement de cap dans le domaine énergétique, avec une sortie complète du nucléaire d’ici à 2022 et un recours massif aux énergies renouvelables. L’objectif annoncé est de porter la part de ces énergies dans le mix énergétique à 35 % en 2035, et d’atteindre plus de 80 % à l’échéance 2050. Mais cette politique de transition énergétique, qui donne lieu à un large consensus dans le pays, se heurte à de nombreuses difficultés : un réseau de transport de l’électricité inadapté, le coût très élevé des investissements, des prix de l’électricité exorbitants pour les consommateurs... Aujourd’hui, ce n’est pas le principe du changement qui suscite des interrogations, mais plutôt son rythme et son coût.
L'émergence des places de marché publicitaires, l'opportunité d'une nouvelle industrie
Authors: Lallement Gérard , Serris Jacques , Varenne Dominique
Published: December 2014

Au sein de la publicité en ligne, les bannières ( displays ) sont intuitivement ce qui ressemble le plus aux encarts publicitaires, tels qu’ils sont apparus dans la presse dès le XIX e siècle (la « réclame »). On parle d’ailleurs toujours à leur sujet d’« impression » et de « CPM » (coût pour mille - cost per mille , en anglais), des termes hérités de la mesure de la circulation de la presse. En réalité, de nouvelles technologies de vente d’espaces publicitaires (aux enchères et en temps réel) prennent depuis quelques années une part croissante du marché des bannières. Développées depuis plus longtemps pour l’achat de mots clés, elles mettent en permanence en relation des milliers d’annonceurs avec des centaines de milliers de supports par le biais de plusieurs types d’intermédiaires gérants de plateformes ou d’interfaces. On compte alors en millions les impressions servies individuellement à des millions d’internautes. Couplées à des techniques de suivi des parcours des internautes (correspondant à la succession de leurs visites de sites) ou à la connaissance statistique de leurs comportements (profilage), elles permettent aux supports de redonner un supplément de valeur à des espaces auparavant invendus, et aux annonceurs de disposer d’un ciblage plus fin de leurs prospects commerciaux sur un très grand nombre de sites Internet.
Technologies émergentes et marketing numérique
Authors: Deslis Jirasri , Moissinac Jean-Claude
Published: December 2014

Dans cet article, nous abordons avec un regard technique l’avenir de la publicité, sur plusieurs axes qui ont en commun une forme de pluralité : pluralité des goûts et des sensibilités, pluralité des cultures, pluralité des savoirs et des savoir-faire qu’il est nécessaire d’appréhender pour pouvoir bien utiliser les multiples formes que prend la communication numérique.
Être chef malgré soi
Authors: Brasseur Martine
Published: December 2014

Résumé Dans cet article, nous proposons d’enrichir la problématique du leadership par l’étude des situations subies par le leader et vécues comme imposées par la dynamique du groupe. Nous nous focaliserons sur l’un des aspects de ce phénomène assez peu exploré : le mal-être des personnes concernées. Pour cela, après une revue de la littérature permettant de clarifier la problématique du leadership subi, nous positionnerons notre méthodologie de recherche dans le courant de la recherche-action de l’Ecole de Palo Alto, que nous désignerons par le sigle « E.P.D. », pour dans un troisième temps présenter les résultats de deux études de cas d’accompagnement professionnel. Le premier illustre l’opposition possible entre posture de leader émergente malgré soi et quête existentielle de l’individu. Le second met en évidence que l’issue de cette situation n’est pas forcément l’auto-exclusion du groupe ou le passage de relais du leadership, et qu’une option peut s’ouvrir pour la personne lui permettant d’accepter son leadership sans se nier. Nos travaux confortent l’hypothèse que le leadership tournant est souhaitable, non pas seulement pour la performance des équipes, mais pour la préservation de la personne du leader.
Manager sans perdre son âme
Authors: Glée Catherine , Mispelblom Beyer Frederik
Published: December 2014

Résumé Cet article se fonde sur un paradoxe : jamais le management n’a été autant critiqué aujourd’hui que par ceux là même qui ont contribué à la valorisation de la notion et à sa diffusion ( Mintzberg 2005, Hamel, 2007) et, dans le même temps les publications émanant des professionnels de la GRH ne cessent de souligner l’importance stratégique du manager en particulier le manager dit « de proximité », et cela du fait de son rôle clef dans la conduite du changement, dans la mobilisation des équipes, dans la performance des organisations. Sur la base d’une étude empirique faite de matériaux d’entretiens de type compréhensifs (Kaufman, 1996) 3 , nous proposons une analyse des « fondements invariables » de l’activité d’encadrement et nous analysons les « théorisations profanes » avec lesquelles les encadrants interviewés ont tenté de se « saisir » d’une réalité complexe et mouvante pour construire des modes d’action et de « réaction » qui soient autant d’outils opérationnels pour eux. Les résultats montrent comment des stratégies de résistance sont inventées pour « encadrer sans perdre son âme ». Ils indiquent que des pratiques alternatives silencieuses existent et qu’une forme de management « humaniste et bienveillant » peut exister et prendre place au sein d’une gestion des ressources humaines « durable ». Le terme de « durable » s’entend ici, non pas au sens temporel du terme, mais au sens « écologique », c’est-à-dire soutenable, acceptable pour les « humains » encadrés et encadrants.
Les théories implicites du leadership (TIC)
Authors: Petit Valérie
Published: December 2014

Résumé Cet article présente et discute les résultats d’une étude de la représentation sociale du leadership chez des cadres dirigeants français. Les résultats soulignent l’importance accordée par les dirigeants au développement du leadership dans des fonctions de direction, et met en lumière la centralité du charisme, de la vision et du management d’équipe dans le contenu de la représentation. Ils décrivent également les cadres d’expérience privilégiés du leadership, les croyances et quelques pratiques d’apprentissage des dirigeants en la matière. L’auteur souligne en conclusion l’importance d’expliciter les théories implicites du leadership aussi bien dans l’élaboration théorique du leadership que dans la formation des managers au leadership.
Le théâtre comme vecteur de la quête du sens dans l'apprentissage du management
Authors: Bibard Laurent
Published: December 2014

Résumé Aux trois niveaux du jeu d’acteur, de la distance qu’implique toute re-présentation, enfin de la création d’une œuvre ou d’un scénario, le théâtre est un outil décisif pour la formation des managers et cadres à la présence en situation de décision.