bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular characterization of Campylobacter spp. isolated from poultry faeces and carcasses in Poland
Authors: Wieczorek Kinga , Osek Jacek
Published: April 2011

Campylobacterinfection is one of the most common enteric human diseases world-wide but the mechanism ofCampylobacterpathogenicity has not been exactly explained yet. One of the main reasons is genotypic, hence phenotypic diversity of the bacterial isolates. The aim of the present study was to perform a molecular characterization of randomly selectedC.jejuniandC. colistrains isolated from poultry faeces and carcasses in Poland. Several virulence gene markers were identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Furthermore, genetic typing has also been used by the macrorestriction profiling with pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). The results of the present study showed that all analyzed isolates ofC. jejuni(n = 24) andC. coli(n = 24) contained theflaAandcadFsequences. On the other hand, thevirB11gene was present only in 6 of 48 (12.5%) of the analyzed isolates, whereas most of the strains contained thecdtgenes. Other virulence geneiamlinked toCampylobacterinvasiveness was present in 34 of 48 (72.9%) strains. The restriction analysis of the whole genome digested withSmaI produced three main clonal groups designed as I, II (with two subgroups IIa and IIb), and III obtained by the comparison of macrorestriction profiling patterns. The results showed a poor correlation betweenCampylobacterprofiles generated by a clonal molecular technique and the presence of virulence markers. Therefore, PCR detection ofCampylobactervirulence markers can be utilized as a simple and rapid tool to discriminate stains recovered from different sources, especially when used in conjunction with the PFGE profile analysis as a complex strategy. These kinds of analyses had not been previously carried out in Poland and these results may generate more knowledge regarding the genetic diversity and molecular relationship ofCampylobacter.
The acaricidal effect of flumethrin, oxalic acid and amitraz against Varroa destructor in honey bee (Apis mellifera carnica) colonies
Authors: Smodiš Škerl Maja Ivana , Nakrst Mitja , Žvokelj Lucija , Gregorc Aleš
Published: April 2011

During 2007 and 2008, natural mite mortality was recorded in honey bee colonies. These colonies were then treated with various acaricides against Varroa destructor and acaricide efficacies were evaluated. In 2007, experimental colonies were treated with flumethrin and/or oxalic acid and in 2008 the same colonies were treated with flumethrin, oxalic acid or amitraz. The efficacy of flumethrin in 2007 averaged 73.62% compared to 70.12% for three oxalic acid treatments. In 2008, a reduction of 12.52% in mite numbers was found 4 weeks after flumethrin application, while 4 oxalic acid applications produced significantly higher (P < 0.05) mite mortality, an average of 24.13%. Four consecutive amitraz fumigations produced a 93.82% reduction on average in final mite numbers and thus ensure normal colony development and overwintering. The study is important in order to demonstrate that synthetic acaricides should be constantly re-evaluated and the use of flumethrin at low efficacies need to be superseded by appropriate organic treatments to increase the efficacy of mite control in highly-infested colonies during the period of brood rearing.
An analysis of CYP19, CYP21 and ER genotypes in Polish Holstein-Friesian cows with regard to the selected reproductive traits
Authors: Szatkowska Iwona , Grzesiak Wilhelm , Jędrzejczak Magdalena , Dybus Andrzej , Zaborski Daniel , Jankowiak Dorota
Published: April 2011

The aim of this study was to relate polymorphic variants of CYP19, CYP21 and ER1 genes to reproductive traits in 472 Polish Holstein-Friesian cows. High frequencies of one of the homozygous genotypes were found. The ER1/SnaBIAA homozygotes were not identified. In the first and third lactation, an average calving-to-conception interval (CLVC) in cows of ER1/SnaBIGG genotype was significantly shorter (P ≤ 0.05) than in heterozygous cows. In the cows of ER1/BglIGG genotype, significantly shorter CLVC (P ≤ 0.05) was observed compared to heterozygotes in the first lactation, whereas in the third lactation, CLVC in homozygous cows was significantly longer (P ≤ 0.05) than in heterozygous ones. It was also found that homozygous cows were characterized by significantly longer calving interval (CLVI; P ≤ 0.05) compared to heterozygotes in the third lactation. Longer CLVCs in CYP19AA cows were found, compared to heterozygotes, and this difference was significant in the first and third lactation (P ≤ 0.05). Similarly, the average CLVIs were longer in CYP19AA homozygotes than in heterozygous cows; however, significance was proven only in the third lactation (P ≤ 0.05). Description of the molecular mechanisms regulating reproduction, and thus identification of the individuals of genotypes with optimal potential may facilitate the employment of selected reproductive model by a breeder.
Nonlinear Impedance of Whole Cells Near an Electrode as a Probe of Mitochondrial Activity
Authors: Palanisami Akilan , Mercier George T. , Fang Jie , Miller Jr. John H.
Published: April 2011

By simultaneously measuring the bulk media and electrode interface voltages of a yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) suspension subjected to an AC voltage, a yeast-dependent nonlinear response was found only near the current injection electrodes. Computer simulation of yeast near a current injection electrode found an enhanced voltage drop across the yeast near the electrode due to slowed charging of the electrode interfacial capacitance. This voltage drop is sufficient to induce conformation change in membrane proteins. Disruption of the mitochondrial electron transport chain is found to significantly change the measured nonlinear current response, suggesting nonlinear impedance can be used as a non-invasive probe of cellular metabolic activity.
Colorectal Cancer Stem Cells and Cell Death
Authors: Catalano Veronica , Gaggianesi Miriam , Spina Valentina , Iovino Flora , Dieli Francesco , Stassi Giorgio , Todaro Matilde
Published: April 2011

Nowadays it is reported that, similarly to other solid tumors, colorectal cancer is sustained by a rare subset of cancer stem–like cells (CSCs), which survive conventional anticancer treatments, thanks to efficient mechanisms allowing escape from apoptosis, triggering tumor recurrence. To improve patient outcomes, conventional anticancer therapies have to be replaced with specific approaches targeting CSCs. In this review we provide strong support that BMP4 is an innovative therapeutic approach to prevent colon cancer growth increasing differentiation markers expression and apoptosis. Recent data suggest that in colorectal CSCs, protection from apoptosis is achieved by interleukin-4 (IL-4) autocrine production through upregulation of antiapoptotic mediators, including survivin. Consequently, IL-4 neutralization could deregulate survivin expression and localization inducing chemosensitivity of the colon CSCs pool.
YueF Overexpression Inhibits Cell Proliferation Partly through p21WAF1/Cip1 Upregulation in Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Huang Hsuan-Wei , Peng Jian-Ping , Zhang Jie
Published: April 2011

YueF is a novel putative tumor suppressor gene that can inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis in hepatoma cells, but its role in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remains unclear. Here, we examined the expression of the YueF gene in RCC tissues and the effect of YueF on cell proliferation in RCC 786-0 cells. The results showed that YueF was expressed at high levels in normal kidney tissues and cell lines but was reduced or absent in RCC tissues and 786-0 cells. Lentivirus-mediated YueF overexpression in RCC 786-0 cells caused cell-cycle arrest in the G1 phase and dramatically reduced proliferation in culture. YueF overexpression resulted in increased protein levels of p53 and p21WAF1/Cip1, whereas the protein levels of cyclin D1 and pRb were decreased. The proliferation defects caused by YueF overexpression could be partially rescued by the expression of p21 siRNA. These findings suggest a critical role for p21 in the YueF-induced growth inhibition of 786-0 cells and provide novel insights into the mechanism underlying the tumor-suppressive action of YueF.
Bed Bug Infestations and Control Practices in China: Implications for Fighting the Global Bed Bug Resurgence
Authors: Wang Changlu , Wen Xiujun
Published: April 2011

The bed bug resurgence in North America, Europe, and Australia has elicited interest in investigating the causes of the widespread and increasing infestations and in developing more effective control strategies. In order to extend global perspectives on bed bug management, we reviewed bed bug literature in China by searching five Chinese language electronic databases. We conducted telephone interviews of staff from 77 Health and Epidemic Prevention Stations in six Chinese cities in November 2010. We also conducted telephone interviews of 68 pest control firms in two cities during March 2011. Two species of bed bugs (Cimex lectularius L. and Cimex hemipterus (F.)) are known to occur in China. These were common urban pests before the early1980s. Nationwide “Four-Pest Elimination” campaigns (bed bugs being one of the targeted pests) were implemented in China from 1960 to the early 1980s. These campaigns succeeded in the elimination of bed bug infestations in most communities. Commonly used bed bug control methods included applications of hot water, sealing of bed bug harborages, physical removal, and applications of residual insecticides (mainly organophosphate sprays or dusts). Although international and domestic travel has increased rapidly in China over the past decade (2000–2010), there have only been sporadic new infestations reported in recent years. During 1999–2009, all documented bed bug infestations were found in group living facilities (military dormitories, worker dormitories, and prisons), hotels, or trains. One city (Shenzhen city near Hong Kong) experienced significantly higher number of bed bug infestations. This city is characterized by a high concentration of migratory factory workers. Current bed bug control practices include educating residents, washing, reducing clutter, putting items under the hot sun in summer, and applying insecticides (pyrethroids or organophosphates). There have not been any studies or reports on bed bug insecticide resistance. Difficulties of control were noted in our surveys of dormitories in which crowded living, seasonal worker migration, and financial constraints contributed to control failures. This study supports the following conclusions: (1) the bed bug infestation in China dramatically decreased following the campaigns from 1960 to the early 1980s; (2) In our survey of Health and Epidemics Prevention Stations, no bed bug cases were reported in Beijing and Shanghai for the past 12 months, but complaints were reported in Guangzhou, Lanzhou, Urumqi, and Shenzhen; (3) Current bed bug infestations primarily are reported in crowded living environments or transient environments such as worker dormitories and military dormitories. These findings suggest that community-wide bed bug monitoring and control campaigns are necessary for effective control of bed bug infestations as a societal response.
Energy Efficient Design for Body Sensor Nodes
Authors: Zhang Yanqing , Shakhsheer Yousef , Barth Adam T. , Powell Jr. Harry C. , Ridenour Samuel A. , Hanson Mark A. , Lach John , Calhoun Benton H.
Published: April 2011

This paper describes the hardware requirements and design constraints that derive from unique features of body sensor networks (BSNs). Based on the BSN requirements, we examine the tradeoff between custom hardware and commercial off the shelf (COTS) designs for BSNs. The broad range of BSN applications includes situations where either custom chips or COTS design is optimal. For both types of nodes, we survey key techniques to improve energy efficiency in BSNs and identify general approaches to energy efficiency in this space.
Coccolithophores: Functional Biodiversity, Enzymes and Bioprospecting
Authors: Reid Emma L. , Worthy Charlotte A. , Probert Ian , Ali Sohail T. , Love John , Napier Johnathan , Littlechild Jenny A. , Somerfield Paul J. , Allen Michael J.
Published: April 2011

Emiliania huxleyi is a single celled, marine phytoplankton with global distribution. As a key species for global biogeochemical cycling, a variety of strains have been amassed in various culture collections. Using a library consisting of 52 strains of E. huxleyi and an ‘in house‘ enzyme screening program, we have assessed the functional biodiversity within this species of fundamental importance to global biogeochemical cycling, whilst at the same time determining their potential for exploitation in biocatalytic applications. Here, we describe the screening of E. huxleyi strains, as well as a coccolithovirus infected strain, for commercially relevant biocatalytic enzymes such as acid/alkali phosphodiesterase, acid/alkali phosphomonoesterase, EC1.1.1-type dehydrogenase, EC1.3.1-type dehydrogenase and carboxylesterase.
New Solid Phase Synthesis of Distamycin Analogues
Authors: Danuta Drozdowska
Published: April 2011

A novel and straightforward solid phase synthesis of distamycin analogues containing benzene units has been developed.
The Nutrition Transition in Africa: Can It Be Steered into a More Positive Direction?
Authors: Vorster Hester H. , Kruger Annamarie , Margetts Barrie M.
Published: April 2011

The objective of this narrative review is to examine the nutrition transition and its consequences when populations in Africa modernize as a result of socio-economic development, urbanization, and acculturation. The focus is on the changes in dietary patterns and nutrient intakes during the nutrition transition, the determinants and consequences of these changes as well as possible new approaches in public health nutrition policies, interventions and research needed to steer the nutrition transition into a more positive direction in Africa. The review indicates that non-communicable, nutrition-related diseases have emerged in sub-Saharan Africa at a faster rate and at a lower economic level than in industrialized countries, before the battle against under-nutrition has been won. There is a putative epigenetic link between under- and over-nutrition, explaining the double burden of nutrition-related diseases in Africa. It is concluded that it is possible to steer the nutrition transition into a more positive direction, provided that some basic principles in planning public health promotion strategies, policies and interventions are followed. It is suggested that sub-Saharan African countries join forces to study the nutrition transition and implemented interventions on epidemiological, clinical and molecular (genetic) level for better prevention of both under- and over-nutrition.
The Role of Satellite Data Within GCOS Switzerland
Authors: Seiz Gabriela , Foppa Nando , Meier Marion , Paul Frank
Published: April 2011

The Global Climate Observing System (GCOS) was established in 1992 to ensure that the observations necessary to address climate-related issues are defined, obtained and made available, to all potential users. The Swiss GCOS Office at the Federal Office of Meteorology and Climatology MeteoSwiss has the task of coordinating all climate relevant measurements in Switzerland (GCOS Switzerland). As such, the Swiss GCOS Office also fosters the exploration of new measurement techniques and methods, in particular through the use of satellite-based data, to complement the long-term in situ observations in Switzerland. In this paper, the role of satellites is presented for climatological studies of atmospheric and terrestrial Essential Climate Variables in Switzerland. For the atmospheric domain, the 10-year climatology March 2000–February 2010 of cloud cover from MODIS is shown for Switzerland, in low (1° × 1°) and high (0.05° × 0.05°) resolution, and compared to ground-based synop observations. For the terrestrial domain, the satellite-derived Swiss glacier inventory from 1998/99 and the new Alpine-wide inventory from 2003 is presented along with area changes derived from a comparison with previous inventories.
Effect of Early Antiretroviral Therapy during Primary HIV-1 Infection on Cell-Associated HIV-1 Dna and Plasma HIV-1 Rna
Authors:   Swiss HIV Cohort Study, Gianella Sara , von Wyl Viktor , Fischer Marek , Niederoest Barbara , Battegay Manuel , Bernasconi Enos , Cavassini Matthias , Rauch Andri , Hirschel Bernard , Vernazza Pietro , Weber Rainer , Joos Beda , Günthard Huldrych F
Published: April 2011

Background

Early initiation of combination antiretro-viral therapy (ART) during primary HIV-1 infection may prevent the establishment of large viral reservoirs, possibly resulting in improved control of plasma viraemia rebound after ART cessation.

Methods

Levels of cell-associated HIV-1 DNA and plasma HIV-1 RNA were measured longitudinally in 32 acutely and recently infected patients, who started ART ≤120 days after the estimated date of infection, and interrupted ART after 18 months (median) of continuous therapy. Averages of HIV-1 DNA and RNA concentrations present in blood 30–365 days after therapy interruption (median duration 300 days, range 195–358) were compared between patients who started ART ≤60 days after the estimated date of infection (early starters), those who started between 61 and 120 days (later starters), and, for HIV-1 RNA only, with 89 untreated participants of the Swiss HIV Cohort Study with documented seroconversion and longitudinal measurements collected 90–455 days after the first positive HIV test.

Results

In early ART starters, average levels of plasma HIV-1 RNA and cell-associated HIV-1 DNA after treatment interruption were 1 log10 ( P=0.008) and 0.4 log10 ( P=0.03) lower compared with later starters. Average post-treatment plasma HIV-1 RNA levels in early starters were significantly lower, respectively, compared with untreated controls (-1.2 log10; P<0.0004).

Conclusions

Early treatment initiation within 2 months after HIV infection compared with later therapy initiation resulted in reduced levels of plasma viraemia and proviral HIV-1 DNA for ≥1 year after subsequent ART cessation. Plasma HIV-1 RNA levels in early starters were also significantly lower than in untreated controls.
Comment sortir de l'ornière les pays « faillis » ?
Authors: Michaïlof Serge
Published: April 2011

L’effet d’entraînement des graves crises que connaissent certains États a conduit la communauté internationale à multiplier les tentatives d’aide au redressement. On peut pourtant s’interroger sur l’inadaptation de ces tentatives : dans leurs méthodes de travail, leur cadre conceptuel, dans leur philosophie même. Il faut sans doute pour l’avenir privilégier la reconstruction des institutions régaliennes, seules susceptibles de garantir la réorganisation sociale et le développement économique. politique étrangère
Mali et Mauritanie : pays sahéliens fragiles et États résilients
Authors: Antil Alain , Touati Sylvain
Published: April 2011

Les États du Sahel semblent parfois réduits à une présence symbolique sur leur propre territoire, mais ils résistent aux diverses définitions des États faillis. Si la démocratie malienne semble imparfaite, les institutions du pays font montre d’une remarquable résilience. La Mauritanie, bien que de constitution fragile, résiste à la tourmente. États en difficulté mais non effondrés, ces deux pays présentent sans doute des facteurs de cohésion spécifiques. politique étrangère
La Colombie et le discours sur les États faillis État ou concept failli ?
Authors: Florez Ruiz José Fernando
Published: April 2011

Le concept d’État failli pose nombre de problèmes. Il insiste particulièrement sur la dimension institutionnelle, et a pour effet de valoriser l’investissement dans les domaines de la défense et de la sécurité. En Colombie, la double présidence Uribe a certes fait des progrès dans la guerre contre les guérillas et la récupération du contrôle du territoire, mais au prix d’une large militarisation, et d’un retour en arrière des critères sociaux et économiques du bon fonctionnement de l’État. politique étrangère
Le Parti démocrate du Japon et la longue crise de l'archipel
Authors: Harris Tobias
Published: April 2011

La nette victoire du Parti démocrate du Japon, en 2009, laissait augurer de changements fondamentaux après une longue domination du Parti libéral-démocrate. Fin 2010, la déception est générale. Le PDJ a échoué à modifier la logique de gouvernement, et en particulier les complexes liaisons entre le Cabinet, l’administration, et le parti majoritaire. Le manque de vision politique et l’indécision des Premiers ministres successifs, ainsi que le poids de la crise économique, les ont condamnés à l’échec. politique étrangère
L'économie japonaise : miroir de notre futur ?
Authors: Meyer Claude
Published: April 2011

Malgré un apparent déclin, le Japon produit aujourd’hui presqu’autant que la Chine. Si son économie fait face à de lourds défis (absence de leadership politique, endettement public, vieillissement de la population), ses atouts sont aussi réels : excellence technologique, dynamisme commercial, puissance financière, leadership économique et commercial en Asie. Une forte volonté politique et un regain de confiance pourraient permettre le retour d’une croissance modérée mais durable. politique étrangère
Japon : trouver l'équilibre entre soft power et hard power
Authors: Akaha Tsuneo
Published: April 2011

L’après-guerre a incité Tokyo à développer un soft power assurant sa présence internationale : aide au développement, participation limitée aux opérations de maintien de la paix... Ce soft power montre aujourd’hui ses limites. Le Japon hésite à s’ouvrir à une véritable politique d’immigration, à la négociation d’accords régionaux de libre-échange, tandis que les recompositions régionales valorisent le recours au hard power  : alliance américaine et renforcement des moyens militaires. politique étrangère
Le réarmement contrôlé du Japon
Authors: Pajon Céline
Published: April 2011

Le Japon révise sa posture militaire et diplomatique en renforçant sa position régionale face à une modernisation militaire chinoise préoccupante – mobilité accrue, capacités de projection – et en cherchant à mettre sur pied une nouvelle structure régionale de sécurité. Tokyo entend aussi dynamiser son profil international, avec un engagement renforcé dans des opérations de maintien de la paix. Avec, sans doute, l’arrivée prochaine des industriels japonais sur le marché mondial de l’armement. politique étrangère
Qui a peur des « mauvaises mères » ? Changements socio-économiques et discours politiques au Japon
Authors: Takeda Hiroko
Published: April 2011

Le développement du Japon d’après-guerre s’est appuyé sur un modèle familial homme soutien financier/femme au foyer, et sur le rôle de ces mères dans l’éducation des enfants. La crise économique et la structure démographique du Japon donnent désormais aux femmes une plus grande place hors de leur foyer. Mais ce nouvel investissement du marché du travail se heurte à des résistances socio-culturelles importantes : en témoigne en particulier le discours récurrent sur les « mauvaises mères ». politique étrangère
La diplomatie d'Obama à l'épreuve du Web 2.0
Authors: Nocetti Julien
Published: April 2011

L’Administration Obama entend restaurer l’image internationale des États-Unis. Elle utilise pour ce faire, au service de ses démonstrations diplomatiques, toutes les potentialités des nouveaux médias, tout en développant un discours liant le Web à la promotion de la démocratie. Le bilan de ces choix peut paraître mitigé : Internet joue sans nul doute un rôle politique croissant mais les régimes autoritaires peuvent eux aussi s’adapter à la nouvelle réalité numérique. politique étrangère
Les orientations de la modernisation navale chinoise
Authors: Heng-Lim Yves
Published: April 2011

L’usage que Pékin entend faire des nouvelles capacités d’une marine chinoise modernisée dans la dernière décennie est peu clair. Les progrès de la marine chinoise dans les trois dimensions principales de la puissance navale nous offrent pourtant quelques indices sur ses priorités. Meilleure capacité de projection de force ou de protection des voies maritimes, avancée en termes de capacité de déni : l’antagonisme avec les États-Unis semble bien au cœur de la modernisation navale chinoise. politique étrangère
Repenser l'Atlantique dans un monde à repenser
Authors: Serfaty Simon
Published: April 2011

Le monde qui a vu naître le partenariat euro-américain n’existe plus. Se dessine aujourd’hui un monde beaucoup plus complexe, où la puissance est à la fois concentrée et diffuse et où les sociétés occidentales, pour fortes qu’elles demeurent, paraissent en mauvais état. Il faut donc redéfinir l’ensemble atlantique, en le reliant aux espaces critiques que sont la Méditerranée, l’Afrique, ou l’Amérique latine – lesquels peuvent seuls lui rendre un sens stratégique. politique étrangère
La révision générale des politiques publiques : objet, méthodes et redevabilité
Authors: Lafarge François
Published: April 2011

Cet article a pour but d’analyser comment est menée la révision générale des politiques publiques en abordant successivement son objet, ses méthodes et sa redevabilité. Il avance l’hypothèse suivante : plus qu’un processus d’économies, la révision est un processus de réforme et de modernisation de l’administration. Il indique également en quoi elle se veut et est plus efficace que les expériences de réforme antérieures mais aussi en quoi elle accuse certaines limites en matière de méthode et de redevabilité.
La « réingénierie de l'Etat », réforme québécoise inspirée du managérialisme
Authors: Fortier Isabelle
Published: April 2011

Ce texte présente la modernisation de l’État lancée en 2003 par le gouvernement libéral de Jean Charest sous le nom de « Réingénierie de l’État ». Un survol trace d’abord la montée historique du managérialisme au Québec aﬁn de dégager les éléments de continuité mais aussi de rupture. La réforme est ensuite décrite : ses justiﬁcatifs et les modalités de la démarche, ses instruments, les acteurs impliqués et les mécanismes de suivis. Enﬁn, la réforme est analysée et commentée à la lumière des enjeux actuels, notamment ceux en lien avec la démarche de retour à l’équilibre budgétaire au sortir de la crise économique.
Les programme reviews au Royaume-Uni et la question de la mesure de la performance
Authors: Massey Andrew
Published: April 2011

Cet article examine comment le Royaume-Uni procède à l’examen régulier de ses politiques publiques. Il montre que ces révisions se font en particulier sous l’angle de l’examen de leur performance et que la performance est entendue dans un sens large qui inclut même l’utilité de la politique en question. Il montre également que les mesures de performance sont un souci ancien et bien ancré dans la culture administrative au Royaume-Uni qui y voit un retour nécessaire en terme de responsabilité. Les instruments mis en œuvre pour obtenir les révisions des politiques publiques et les mesures de performance qui y sont liées n’offrent pas tous la même efficacité ou la même utilité.
La révision générale des politiques publiques, une conception néolibérale du rôle de l'Etat ?
Authors: Dreyfus Françoise
Published: April 2011

En dépit de son intitulé, la RGPP ne constitue pas une « revue de programme » conduisant à interroger les missions poursuivies par les administrations, mais plutôt une réorganisation de leurs organigrammes aﬁn de réaliser des économies d’échelle. Cette restructuration de l’appareil d’État vise d’une manière générale à « faire mieux avec moins » : accroître les performances des agents publics tout en procédant à une diminution des effectifs. Parallèlement à la conception néolibérale du rôle de l’État qui sous-tend cette réforme, la mise en œuvre des préceptes de la Nouvelle gestion publique est désormais pleinement assumée.
La RGPP et la LOLF : consonances et dissonances
Authors: Kott Sébastien
Published: April 2011

La LOLF et la RGPP constituent a priori deux chantiers complémentaires de la réforme de l’État. L’article établit trois points de contact et parfois de friction qu’il faudra éclaircir aﬁn d’assurer une meilleure coordination des deux pratiques et in fine la pérennité de la RGPP. Le premier concerne le pilotage de la réforme de l’État portée par le pouvoir exécutif dans le cadre de la RGPP et auquel le Parlement souhaite être plus intégré. Le deuxième porte sur la place de la performance, très présente dans la construction de la LOLF, mais à laquelle certains dispositifs RGPP peuvent paraître étrangers. Le troisième traite de la difficulté à mettre en place une logique commune efficace de programmation pluriannuelle des ﬁnances publiques.
Management public : les enseignements d'une enquête sur la perception de la RGPP
Authors: Trosa Sylvie
Published: April 2011

L’objet de cet article est de présenter les résultats d’une enquête réalisée auprès des acteurs des RGPP concernant leur perception de la façon dont le processus a été managé et dont il pourrait être managé à l’avenir. Il montre qu’au-delà des RGPP une telle réforme suppose des réflexions de fond encore largement à développer : le changement s’impose-t-il ? Peut-on être participatif sur les objectifs et également sur les méthodes de mise en œuvre ? Une clariﬁcation du sens et des missions n’est-elle pas indispensable dans des services qui ne relèvent pas du secteur privé ?
Révision générale des politiques publiques et gestion des ressources humaines
Authors: Chevallier Jacques
Published: April 2011

La gestion améliorée des ressources humaines constitue l’un des axes de modernisation de la RGPP en transposant dans l’administration des techniques d’optimisation du secteur privé. Elle s’inscrit dans la continuité d’orientations précédentes articulées autour de trois volets essentiels : la dynamisation des parcours professionnels, le développement d’une culture du résultat et la diversiﬁcation du recrutement dans la fonction publique. Elle contient toutefois certains éléments de rupture porteurs d’une conception différente de la fonction publique.
Revues de programmes et collectivités territoriales
Authors: Pissaloux Jean-Luc , Supplisson Didier
Published: April 2011

La RGPP, au-delà d’une méthode élaborée et mise en œuvre par l’État pour conduire différentes réformes, renvoie à de multiples chantiers de modernisation, dont la liste montre qu’elle est d’abord l’affaire de l’État et non celle des collectivités locales. Cependant, bien que lancée par et pour l’État, la RGPP exerce inéluctablement sur celles-ci un impact à la fois positif (partage de bénéﬁces) et négatif (nouveaux transferts de charges). Force est de constater en outre – et pour différentes raisons – l’extension de la démarche RGPP aux collectivités locales, comme mode de pilotage d’une « réduction générale des politiques publiques », et ainsi l’apparition de déclinaisons locales de la RGPP.
Les « livres blancs », une méthode de réforme dans le sillage de la RGPP ?
Authors: Badel Laurence
Published: April 2011

Si la politique étrangère fait traditionnellement l’objet de livres blancs en Grande-Bretagne, ce n’était pas le cas en France jusqu’à l’été 2008. La parution du livre blanc La France et l’Europe dans le monde tend à faire de la politique étrangère une politique publique comme une autre, susceptible d’une programmation. Elle est le fruit d’un processus de moyenne durée visant à adapter l’outil diplomatique à la mondialisation : dans ce cadre l’impulsion donnée dans les années 2000 par les ministères Juppé et Védrine a été décisive. Le livre blanc tente de concilier deux logiques d’action, l’une fondée sur la notion de sécurité, l’autre sur la reconnaissance d’une vision transnationale des relations extérieures qui implique une modiﬁcation en profondeur de la machine culturelle. Si l’on observe les réformes de la décennie écoulée (1998-2008) et leurs fondements, on peut s’interroger sur l’éventuelle privatisation à moyen terme de pans entiers de l’action extérieure, réflexion que le livre blanc élude.
La nouvelle organisation de l'Etat en région
Authors: Kamel Wassim
Published: April 2011

La réforme de l’administration territoriale de l’État à l’échelon régional, qui vient de s’achever, comporte deux innovations majeures : la première concerne l’érection de cette circonscription déconcentrée de l’État en niveau de pilotage de droit commun des politiques publiques. Dans ce cadre, la cartographie du niveau territorial a été profondément modiﬁée : ce ne sont plus désormais que huit entités – au lieu d’une vingtaine – qui agissent auprès du préfet de région et de ses services pour mettre en œuvre l’action de l’État ; la seconde a trait à la prééminence du préfet de région, qui a été fortement consolidée au travers de son pouvoir d’instruction et de son droit d’évocation sur les préfets de département.
Mujeres políticas y desarrollo rural en Andalucía
Authors: Palenzuela Chamorro Pablo , Cruces Roldán Cristina
Published: April 2011

El artículo analiza la situación que viven las mujeres políticas en los pequeños pueblos de Andalucía, al sur de España, en el marco de las políticas de Desarrollo Rural. Mediante una metodología estadística y fundamentalmente cualitativa, se presentan las estrategias femeninas para alcanzar el empoderamiento (acceso, motivaciones, “estilos femeninos”, posiciones, trabajo, socialización de los cargos...) en una arena tradicionalmente masculinizada como la política local, y su compatibilidad con la vida familiar y social.
Innovación y territorio. Una encuesta a pequeñas y medianas empresas industriales
Authors: Lavía Cristina , Otero Beatriz , Olazaran Mikel , Albizu Eneka
Published: April 2011

Este trabajo analiza los procesos de innovación en las pequeñas y medianas empresas industriales (Pymes) y, especialmente, las relaciones de cooperación que se establecen en los mismos, desde la perspectiva de los sistemas de innovación. A partir de una encuesta realizada a las Pymes industriales guipuzcoanas, se analizan las características y capacidades internas de innovación de estas organizaciones, sus fuentes externas y las relaciones de cooperación con otras empresas y con agentes de I+D, así como la influencia del entorno regional en los procesos de innovación. Los resultados empíricos obtenidos confirman buena parte de los postulados de la teoría de los sistemas regionales de innovación, especialmente la relativa al llamado “modelo interactivo”, aunque también muestran especificidades del caso vasco.
Problems with Avian Point Counts for Estimating Density of Northern Bobwhite—A Case Study
Authors: Applegate Roger D. , Kissell Robert E. , Moss E. Daniel , Warr Edward L. , Kennedy Michael L.
Published: April 2011

Point count data are used increasingly to provide density estimates of bird species. A favored approach to analyze point count data uses distance sampling theory where model selection and model fit are important considerations. We used uniform and half normal models and assessed model fit using χ2 analysis. We were unsuccessful in fitting models to 635 northern bobwhite Colinus virginianus observations from 85 avian point locations spanning 6 y (P ≤ 0.05). Most observations (74%) occurred in the outermost (>100-m) distance radius. Our results violated the assumptions that all observations at the point are detected. The assumption that birds were assigned to the correct distance interval also was probably violated. We caution managers in implementing avian point counts with distance sampling when estimating northern bobwhite population density. We recommend exploring other approaches such as occupancy-estimation and modeling for estimating detection probabilities.
Glycolysis in the African Trypanosome: Targeting Enzymes and Their Subcellular Compartments for Therapeutic Development
Authors: Coley April F. , Dodson Heidi C. , Morris Meredith T. , Morris James C.
Published: April 2011

Subspecies of the African trypanosome,Trypanosoma brucei, which cause human African trypanosomiasis, are transmitted by the tsetse fly, with transmission-essential lifecycle stages occurring in both the insect vector and human host. During infection of the human host, the parasite is limited to using glycolysis of host sugar for ATP production. This dependence on glucose breakdown presents a series of targets for potential therapeutic development, many of which have been explored and validated as therapeutic targets experimentally. These include enzymes directly involved in glucose metabolism (e.g., the trypanosome hexokinases), as well as cellular components required for development and maintenance of the essential subcellular compartments that house the major part of the pathway, the glycosomes.
Effects of Tai Chi Training on Antioxidant Capacity in Pre- and Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Palasuwan Attakorn , Suksom Daroonwan , Margaritis Irène , Soogarun Suphan , Rousseau Anne-Sophie
Published: April 2011

The risk of oxidative stress-related metabolic diseases increases with menopause and physical inactivity. We hypothesized that an 8-week Tai Chi (TC) training program (2 sessions in class; 2 sessions at home; 1-1:15/session) would improve antioxidant capacity and reduce cardiovascular risks in both pre- (n=8) and postmenopausal (n=7) sedentary women. Selected measures of physical fitness and blood parameters were analyzed before and after the program. Besides the well-known effects of TC on balance, flexibility, and maximum leg extensor strength, TC (1) increased erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase activity—an aerobic training-responsive antioxidant enzyme—and plasma total antioxidant status and (2) decreased plasma total homocysteine, a cardiovascular risk marker. In addition to being a low-velocity, low-impact, and relatively safe, TC is a suitable physical activity design for pre- and postmenopausal women to increase antioxidant defenses. Investigating breathing effects during TC movements would be an interesting area for further research in diseases prevention.
A Patient with Postpartum Hypopituitarism (Sheehan's Syndrome) Developed Postpartum Autoimmune Thyroiditis (Transient Thyrotoxicosis and Hypothyroidism): A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Takasu Nobuyuki , Nakayama Yoshirou
Published: April 2011

A 36-year-old woman with postpartum hypopituitarism (Sheehan's syndrome: SS) developed postpartum autoimmune thyroiditis (PPAT). She delivered a baby by Caesarean section (620 mL blood loss). At 1 month post partum, she developed thyrotoxicosis due to painless thyroiditis (autoimmune destructive thyroiditis). She was positive for antithyroid antibodies. Postpartum and hypoadrenalism-induced exacerbation of autoimmune thyroiditis caused the thyrotoxicosis due to autoimmune destructive thyroiditis. ACTH was undetectable. She had ACTH deficiency and secondary hypoadrenalism. Hydrocortisone was started. At 6 months post partum, she was referred to us with hypothyroidism. Thyroxine was administered. She had thyrotoxicosis at 1-2 months post partum and then hypothyroidism. She was diagnosed with PPAT. She had hypopituitarism, ACTH deficiency (secondary hypoadrenalism), low prolactin with agalactia, and low LH with failure to resume regular menses. She had empty sella on MRI. She was diagnosed with SS. Three cases with SS have been reported to develop PPAT. Postpartum immunological rebounds and hypoadrenalism-induced immunological alterations (or a combination of the two) might have been responsible for the PPAT.
Persistent Copulation in Asexual Female  Potamopyrgus antipodarum: Evidence for Male Control with Size-Based Preferences
Authors: Nelson Amanda E. , Neiman Maurine
Published: April 2011

Transitions from sexual to asexual reproduction provide a useful context for investigating the evolutionary loss of nonfunctional traits. It is often assumed that useless behaviors or structures will degrade, but this process is poorly understood.Potamopyrgus antipodarumis an ancestrally sexual New Zealand freshwater snail characterized by numerous independent transitions to asexual all-female lineages. The availability of multiple independently-derived asexual lineages of various time since derivation from sexual ancestors means that theP. antipodarumsystem is well-suited for the study of trait loss related to mating behavior and copulation. Here, we asked whether mating behavior in asexual femaleP. antipodarumdegrades with increasing asexual lineage age. While copulation frequency did not differ in females from old versus young asexual lineages,post hocanalyses indicated that it was instead positively associated with mean lineage female size. We observed that femaleP. antipodarumtake a passive physical role in copulatory interactions, indicating that female behavior may not be a useful variable for detection of sex-related vestigialization in this system. Instead, males seem to be in proximate control of copulation frequencies, meaning that male mating behavior may be a primary determinant of the expression of mating behavior in asexual femaleP. antipodarum.
MRI Shows More Severe Hippocampal Atrophy and Shape Deformation in Hippocampal Sclerosis Than in Alzheimer′s Disease
Authors: Zarow C. , Wang L. , Chui H. C. , Weiner M. W. , Csernansky J. G.
Published: April 2011

While hippocampal atrophy is a key feature of both hippocampal sclerosis (HS) and Alzheimer′s disease (AD), the pathology underlying this finding differs in these two conditions. In AD, atrophy is due primarily to loss of neurons and neuronal volume as a result of neurofibrillary tangle formation. While the etiology of HS is unknown, neuron loss in the hippocampus is severe to complete. We compared hippocampal volume and deformations from premortem MRI in 43 neuropathologically diagnosed cases of HS, AD, and normal controls (NC) selected from a longitudinal study of subcortical ischemic vascular disease (IVD Program Project). HS cases (n = 11) showed loss of neurons throughout the rostral‐caudal extent of the hippocampus in one or both hemispheres. AD cases (n = 24) met NIA‐Reagan criteria for high likelihood of AD. Normal control cases (n = 8) were cognitively intact and showed no significant AD or hippocampal pathology. The mean hippocampal volumes were significantly lower in HS versus AD groups (P < .001). Mean shape deformations in the CA1 and subiculum differed significantly between HS versus AD, HS versus NC, and AD versus NC (P < .0001). Additional study is needed to determine whether these differences will be meaningful for clinical diagnosis of individual cases.
Dopamine-Induced Nonmotor Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Park Ariane , Stacy Mark
Published: April 2011

Nonmotor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) may emerge secondary to the underlying pathogenesis of the disease, while others are recognized side effects of treatment. Inevitably, there is an overlap as the disease advances and patients require higher dosages and more complex medical regimens. The non-motor symptoms that emerge secondary to dopaminergic therapy encompass several domains, including neuropsychiatric, autonomic, and sleep. These are detailed in the paper. Neuropsychiatric complications include hallucinations and psychosis. In addition, compulsive behaviors, such as pathological gambling, hypersexuality, shopping, binge eating, and punding, have been shown to have a clear association with dopaminergic medications. Dopamine dysregulation syndrome (DDS) is a compulsive behavior that is typically viewed through the lens of addiction, with patients needing escalating dosages of dopamine replacement therapy. Treatment side effects on the autonomic system include nausea, orthostatic hypotension, and constipation. Sleep disturbances include fragmented sleep, nighttime sleep problems, daytime sleepiness, and sleep attacks. Recognizing the non-motor symptoms that can arise specifically from dopamine therapy is useful to help optimize treatment regimens for this complex disease.
The Involvement of Glutamate Metabolism in the Resistance to Thermal, Nutritional, and Oxidative Stress in Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Magdaleno Anahí , Suárez Mantilla Brian , Rocha Sandra C. , Pral Elizabeth M. F. , Silber Ariel M.
Published: April 2011

The inhibition of some glutamate metabolic pathways could lead to diminished parasite survival. In this study, the effects of L-methionine sulfoximine (MS), DL-methionine sulfone (MSO), and DL-methionine sulfoxide (MSE), three glutamate analogs, on several biological processes were evaluated. We found that these analogs inhibited the growth of epimastigotes cells and showed a synergistic effect with stress conditions such as temperature, nutritional starvation, and oxidative stress. The specific activity for the reductive amination of α-ketoglutaric acid, catalyzed by the NADP+-linked glutamate dehydrogenase, showed an increase in the NADP+ levels, when MS, MSE, and MSO were added. It suggests an eventual conversion of the compounds tested by the T. cruzi cells. The fact that trypomastigote bursting was not significantly inhibited when infected cells were treated with these compounds, remarks the existence of relevant metabolic differences among the different life-cycle stages. It must be considered when proposing a new therapeutic drug.
Usefulness and Limitation of Ultrasonography in the Diagnosis of Intestinal Intussusception in Cows
Authors: Imran Sheikh , Tyagi S. P. , Kumar Adarsh , Kumar Amit , Sharma Arvind , Sharma Shivali
Published: April 2011

The present study was conducted on 6 chronically ill Jersey/Red Sindhi cross-bred cows, which were suspected for intestinal obstruction on the basis of history and clinical signs. These cows were ultimately diagnosed with intestinal intussusception based on a combination of clinical, ultrasonographic and surgical examinations. “Bull’s eye lesion” was the most prominent ultrasonographic finding, diagnostic for intussusception either trans-abdominally or transrectally. Dilated intestinal loops greater than 3.1 cm (mean ± SE, 4.41 ± 0.25) were imaged in the lower flank and the 12th intercostal space on the right side. Ultrasonography proved to be a useful tool in supplementing and substantiating the transrectal findings in cases of the bovine intestinal intussusception. However, ultrasonography was not significantly helpful where transrectal examination of the cows did not reveal any suspected intestinal mass.
Evaluation of the Efficacy of Acaricides Used to Control the Cattle Tick,Rhipicephalus microplus, in Dairy Herds Raised in the Brazilian Southwestern Amazon
Authors: Brito Luciana G. , Barbieri Fábio S. , Rocha Rodrigo B. , Oliveira Márcia C. S. , Ribeiro Elisana Sales
Published: April 2011

The adult immersion test (AIT) was used to evaluate the efficacy of acaricide molecules used for control ofRhipicephalus micropluson 106 populations collected in five municipalities in the state of Rondônia in the Brazilian South Occidental Amazon region. The analysis of the data showed that the acaricide formulations had different efficacies on the tick populations surveyed. The synthetic pyrethroids (SPs) acaricides were the least effective (48.35–76.84%), followed by SP + organophosphate (OP) associations (68.91–81.47%) and amidine (51.35–100%). For the macrocyclic lactones (MLs), the milbemycin (94.84–100%) was the most effective, followed by spinosad (93.21–100%) and the avermectins (81.34–100%). The phenylpyrazole (PZ) group had similar efficacy (99.90%) to the MLs. Therefore, SP acaricides, including associations with OP, and formulations based on amidine presented low in vitro efficacy to control theR. micropluspopulations surveyed.