bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chiral Derivatives of Xanthones: Investigation of the Effect of Enantioselectivity on Inhibition of Cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2) and Binding Interaction with Human Serum Albumin
Authors: Fernandes Carla , Palmeira Andreia , Ramos Inês , Carneiro Carlos , Afonso Carlos , Tiritan Maria , Cidade Honorina , Pinto Paula , Saraiva M. , Reis Salette , Pinto Madalena
Published: May 2017

Searching of new enantiomerically pure chiral derivatives of xanthones (CDXs) with potential pharmacological properties, particularly those with anti-inflammatory activity, has remained an area of interest of our group. Herein, we describe in silico studies and in vitro inhibitory assays of cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2) for different enantiomeric pairs of CDXs. The evaluation of the inhibitory activities was performed by using the COX Inhibitor Screening Assay Kit. Docking simulations between the small molecules (CDXs; known ligands and decoys) and the enzyme targets were undertaken with AutoDock Vina embedded in PyRx—Virtual Screening Tool software. All the CDXs evaluated exhibited COX-1 and COX-2 inhibition potential as predicted. Considering that the (S)-(−)-enantiomer of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug ketoprofen preferentially binds to albumin, resulting in lower free plasma concentration than (R)-(+)-enantiomer, protein binding affinity for CDXs was also evaluated by spectrofluorimetry as well as in in silico. For some CDXs enantioselectivity was observed.
The Reformers and Tradition: Seeing the Roots of the Problem
Authors: Holder R.
Published: May 2017

Challenges the ideal of scripture vs. tradition as a manner of separating Protestants from Catholics in the early modern period, to argue instead that historians should be setting out a continuum of continuity with the medieval inheritance, and considering our typologies of the Reform movements against that. Then, as we teach the Christian Intellectual Tradition, we can see both genealogical and influential links across the eras, and present a better picture of what was going on in the Era of the Reformations, and through that, come to a greater understanding of the human condition.
GPs’ views and experiences of prescribing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: a qualitative study
Authors: McDonald Janet , McBain Lynn , Dowell Anthony C , Morris Caroline
Published: May 2017

Background

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely prescribed in primary care despite being a high-risk drug group causing significant adverse events, yet little is known about GPs’ perceptions of NSAID risks and benefits.

Aim

To explore GPs’ experiences with NSAID prescribing and views about the risks and benefits of this group of medicines.

Design & setting

A qualitative, inductive study in general practice.

Method

Individual interviews with 15 GPs using a semi-structured interview guide. Interviews were audiorecorded and transcribed. An inductive, thematic approach was used for analysis. Sampling continued until data saturation was achieved.

Results

Three main themes illustrate GPs’ key concerns with managing NSAID risks. The first theme was perceptions of risks and benefits of NSAIDs: GPs expressed differing attitudes towards prescribing medication generally. GPs were aware of the general risks of NSAIDs but weighed these up against specific risk factors and potential benefits for particular patients. They were most concerned about long-term use, risks for children, older people, and patients with comorbidities. The second theme was assessing and mitigating risks when prescribing NSAIDs: GPs considered gastric, cardiac, and renal risks of patients as well as drug interactions. Mitigation strategies included alternative treatment, choice and dose of NSAID, and use of gastroprotective agents. The final theme was other factors impacting on NSAID risks: particularly patient expectations and over-the-counter (OTC) availability.

Conclusion

NSAID prescribing is a complex balance between pragmatism and potential adverse events. Given the costs of morbidity, hospitalisation, and patient demand there is an urgent need to secure a more detailed evidence base and develop practical pathways to support safer prescribing.
Is uncertain vulvovaginal candidiasis a marker of vulvodynia? A study in a Dutch general practice research database
Authors: Leusink Peter , van Moorsel Daphne , Bor Hans , Donker Gé A , Lucassen Peter , Teunissen Doreth , Laan Ellen , Lagro-Janssen Antoine
Published: May 2017

Background

A recent Dutch study in general practice showed a clear relationship between the diagnosis of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) and symptoms suggestive of provoked vulvodynia (PVD). PVD accounts for the largest group of vulvar pains, but is often not recognised by GPs.

Aim

To investigate whether diagnostic uncertainty about VVC in general practice could also point to the diagnosis of PVD, and whether and how this diagnostic uncertainty affects management.

Design & setting

An observational study in 2014 in Dutch general practices of the NIVEL Primary Care Database.

Method

Women with an uncertain diagnosis of VVC were distinguished from those with certain VVC based on the occurrence of recurrent episodes and persisting complaints, despite treatment. Factors known to be associated with PVD were hypothesised to be more prevalent in women with uncertain VVC. Data on symptom management by GPs were collected.

Results

In total 7066 women with VVC or uncertain VVC were included. Uncertain VVC was found to account for 28% of these patients. Compared to VVC, the group uncertain VVC included significantly more women with female genital symptoms, tiredness, irritable bowel syndrome (all P<0.001), feeling anxious, reduced sexual desire, depressive disorder, relationship problems, and micturition symptoms (all P<0.05). Compared to VVC, the group uncertain VVC included significantly higher mean numbers of telephone consultations (P<0.001), more referrals to gynaecology (P = 0.009), and higher mean numbers of prescriptions per patient (P<0.001).

Conclusion

This study's findings indicate that uncertain VVC could be a marker of PVD. GPs might reconsider their diagnostics and management when women present recurrent and persistent vulvovaginal complaints, especially if accompanied by dyspareunia, functional syndromes, micturition symptoms, and psychological conditions.
miR-3188 Regulates Cell Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Migration in Breast Cancer by Targeting TUSC5 and Regulating the p38 MAPK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Chen Xiaowen , Chen Jianli
Published: May 2017

This study intended to investigate the effects of miR-3188 on breast cancer and to reveal the possible molecular mechanisms. miR-3188 was upregulated and TUSC5 was downregulated in breast cancer tissues and MCF-7 cells compared to normal tissue and MCF-10 cells. After MCF-7 cells were
transfected with miR-3188 inhibitor, cell proliferation and migration were inhibited, whereas apoptosis was promoted. Luciferase reporter assay suggested that TUSC5 was a target gene of miR-3188. In addition, miR-3188 overexpression increased the p-p38 expression, while miR-3188 suppression
decreased the p-p38 expression significantly. miR-3188 regulated breast cancer progression via the p38 MAPK signaling pathway. In conclusion, miR-3188 affects breast cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, and migration by targeting TUSC5 and activating the p38 MAPK signaling pathway. miR-3188
may serve as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of breast cancer.
US Forest Sector Greenhouse Mitigation Potential and Implications for Nationally Determined Contributions
Authors: Van Winkle Christina , Baker Justin S. , Lapidus Daniel , Ohrel Sara , Steller John , Latta Gregory , Birur Dileep
Published: May 2017

Countries globally are committing to achieve future greenhouse gas emissions reductions to address our changing climate, as outlined in the Paris Agreement from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Conference of the Parties. These commitments, called nationally determined contributions (NDCs), are based on projected anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions levels across all sectors of the economy, including land use, land use change, and forestry (LULUCF) activities. Projecting LULUCF emissions is uniquely challenging, and the uncertainty of future LULUCF emissions could require additional mitigation efforts in the land use sectors to reduce the risk of NDC noncompliance. The objectives of this paper are to provide critical information on what forest sector mitigation activities are currently underway in the United States on private lands, review recent literature estimates of the mitigation potential from these activities (and associated economic costs), identify gaps in the literature where additional analytical work is needed, and provide recommendations for targeted mitigation strategies should US emissions approach or exceed targeted post-2020 NDC levels.
Possibilities And Limitations In The Implementation Of The Policy For Men's Health In Primary Care
Authors: Ramalho Flávio William Brito de Azevedo , Pereira Wilma Dias de Fontes , Ramalho Rafael De Azevedo Lima , Silva Daiane Medeiros da , Chianca Kirlene Scheyla Viana , Arruda Aurilene Josefa Cartaxo Gomes de , Santos Luciara Cristina Ferreira dos , Rufino Núbia De Souza , Alvarenga José Da Paz Oliveira
Published: May 2017

Objective: Investigate the possibilities and limitations to implement the National Policy for Integrated Healthcare in Human Primary João Pessoa - Paraíba.

Method: An exploratory study with a qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews. Data were collected from September 2010 to February 2011. The study subjects were 12 nurses who engage in Integrated Health Units in João Pessoa-Paraíba.

Results: In the treatment of the results we used the Content Analysis of Bardin. All respondents were female, aged 28-43 years, operating time of 7-12 years and most have expertise. The research affirms the occurrence of major deficits in the perception of health professionals regarding the implementation of the policy. Conclusion: The limits revealed require actions by users, professionals and management, so that policy becomes a reality in everyday primary care.

Descriptors: Primary Health Care; Health Policy; Men's Health. Nursing.
Concepts, theoretical models and nursing theories: integrative review
Authors: De Brito Lídia Samantha Alves , De Sousa Natália Daiana Lopes , Alencar Ana Maria Parente Garcia , Rebouças Vitória De Cássia Félix , Pinheiro Paula Pessoa , Júnior Jucier Gonçalves
Published: May 2017

Objective: To know the tendencies of the publications about nursing theories, theoretical models and related concepts in a scientific journal of nursing.

Methods: An integrative review was performed on the website of the journal Acta Paulista de Enfermagem, via SCIELO, from 2005 to 2014. The sample included 21 studies that addressed the application, analysis, construction, validation or reflection on concepts, theoretical models and nursing theories.

Results: Of the publications, 42.8% came from the Northeast region and 76.2% contemplated the qualitative approach. The studies worked with theories (76.2%), with analysis, construction and validation of theoretical models (14.3%), and concept elaboration (9.5%). 2005 and 2011 represented the years with the largest publications, however a decrease has occurred in the last three years.

Conclusion: The trends highlighted the importance of the development and application of the theoretical and philosophical bases of nursing, since it is necessary to strengthen the link between theoretical and practical research.

 

Keywords: Nursing; Nursing research; Practical nursing; Nursing theory; Philosophy in nursing.
Evaluation Of The Quality Of Assistance In An Pre-Hospital Mobile Emergency Service
Authors: Dantas Rodrigo Assis Neves , Dantas Daniele Vieira , Torres Gilson de Vasconcelos , Salvetti Marina De Góes , Fonseca Michelle Carneiro , De Araújo Katiúscia Kelly Medeiros , Nascimento Jessica Cristhyanne Peixoto , Vasconcelos Ellen de Fátima Lima , Cunha Isabelle Cristina Braga Coutinho , Silva Ian Rodrigo Nascimento e , Dos Santos José Joandson De Souza , Alves Louise Constancia De Melo , Laurentino Anne Marília De Aquino , Do Nascimento Rayane Araújo , De Oliveira Sara Porfírio , De Lima Maria Solange Moreira , Dias Jaciana Medeiros da Costa , De Araújo Naryllenne Maciel , Aiquoc Kezauyn Miranda , Dutra Samia Valeria Ozorio
Published: May 2017

Background: to evaluate the quality of the assistance of a Mobile Emergency Care Service and to compare the evaluation of professionals according to training and level of education.

Methods and Findings: this is a cross-sectional study, with a Donabedian theoretical reference. The sample was all the professionals of a Mobile Emergency Service and data collection performed by a previously validated quality assessment instrument. Some aspects of the service structure were evaluated negatively, and the process was evaluated in a positive way, in general. When comparing the evaluation of quality according to professional category and education, it was verified that the indicators of structure and process were considered appropriate by the professionals of average level and inadequate by the personnel of superior level.

Conclusion: the professionals identified flaws in the service structure, which can impact the assistance provided. The level of education influenced the evaluation of the quality of the service.

Keywords: Emergency medical services; Health Evaluation; Prehospital care; Evaluation studies; Health services
Chaotic Zones around Rotating Small Bodies
Authors: Lages José , Shepelyansky Dima L. , Shevchenko Ivan I.
Published: May 2017

Small bodies of the solar system, like asteroids, trans-Neptunian objects, cometary nuclei, and planetary satellites, with diameters smaller than 1000 km usually have irregular shapes, often resembling dumb-bells or contact binaries. The spinning of such a gravitating dumb-bell creates around it a zone of chaotic orbits. We determine its extent analytically and numerically. We find that the chaotic zone swells significantly if the rotation rate is decreased; in particular, the zone swells more than twice if the rotation rate is decreased 10 times with respect to the “centrifugal breakup” threshold. We illustrate the properties of the chaotic orbital zones in examples of the global orbital dynamics about asteroid 243 Ida (which has a moon, Dactyl, orbiting near the edge of the chaotic zone) and asteroid 25143 Itokawa.
Detailed Analysis of the Asteroid Pair (6070) Rheinland and (54827) 2001 NQ8
Authors: Vokrouhlický David , Pravec Petr , Ďurech Josef , Hornoch Kamil , Kušnirák Peter , Galád Adrián , Vraštil Jan , Kučáková Hana , Pollock Joseph T. , Ortiz Jose Luis , Morales Nicolas , Gaftonyuk Ninel M. , Pray Donald P. , Krugly Yurij N. , Inasaridze Raguli Ya. , Ayvazian Vova R. , Molotov Igor E. , Colazo Carlos A.
Published: May 2017

The existence of asteroid pairs, two bodies on similar heliocentric orbits, reveals an ongoing process of rotational fission among asteroids. This newly found class of objects has not been studied in detail yet. Here we choose asteroids (6070) Rheinland and (54827) 2001 NQ8, the most suitable pair for an in-depth analysis. First, we use available optical photometry to determine their rotational state and convex shapes. Rotational pole of Rheinland is very near the south ecliptic pole with a latitude uncertainty of about 10°. There are two equivalent solutions for the pole of 2001 NQ8, either (72°, −49°) or (242°, −46°) (ecliptic longitude and latitude). In both cases, the longitude values have about 10° uncertainty and the latitude values have about 15° uncertainty (both

uncertainties). The sidereal rotation period of 2001 NQ8 is 5.877186 ± 0.000002 hr. Second, we construct a precise numerical integrator to determine the past state vectors of the pair’s components, namely their heliocentric positions and velocities, and orientation of their spin vectors. Using this new tool, we investigate the origin of the (6070) Rheinland and (54827) 2001 NQ8 pair. We find a formal age solution of 16.34 ± 0.04 kyr. This includes effects of the most massive objects in the asteroid belt (Ceres, Pallas, and Vesta), but the unaccounted gravitational perturbations from other asteroids may imply that the realistic age uncertainty is slightly larger than its formal value. Analyzing results from our numerical simulation to 250 kya, we argue against a possibility that this pair would allow an older age. Initial spin vectors of the two asteroids, at the moment of their separation, were not collinear, but tilted by

.
Formation and Initiation of Erupting Flux Rope and Embedded Filament Driven by Photospheric Converging Motion
Authors: Zhao 赵 Xiaozhou 小舟 , Xia Chun , Keppens Rony , Gan Weiqun
Published: May 2017

In this paper, we study how a flux rope (FR) is formed and evolves into the corresponding structure of a coronal mass ejection (CME) numerically driven by photospheric converging motion. A two-and-a-half-dimensional magnetohydrodynamics simulation is conducted in a chromosphere-transition-corona setup. The initial arcade-like linear force-free magnetic field is driven by an imposed slow motion converging toward the magnetic inversion line at the bottom boundary. The convergence brings opposite-polarity magnetic flux to the polarity inversion, giving rise to the formation of an FR by magnetic reconnection and eventually to the eruption of a CME. During the FR formation, an embedded prominence gets formed by the levitation of chromospheric material. We confirm that the converging flow is a potential mechanism for the formation of FRs and a possible triggering mechanism for CMEs. We investigate the thermal, dynamical, and magnetic properties of the FR and its embedded prominence by tracking their thermal evolution, analyzing their force balance, and measuring their kinematic quantities. The phase transition from the initiation phase to the acceleration phase of the kinematic evolution of the FR was observed in our simulation. The FR undergoes a series of quasi-static equilibrium states in the initiation phase; while in the acceleration phase the FR is driven by Lorentz force and the impulsive acceleration occurs. The underlying physical reason for the phase transition is the change of the reconnection mechanism from the Sweet–Parker to the unsteady bursty regime of reconnection in the evolving current sheet underneath the FR.
X-Ray Studies of the Extended TeV Gamma-Ray Source VER J2019+368
Authors: Mizuno T. , Tanaka N. , Takahashi H. , Katsuta J. , Hayashi K. , Yamazaki R.
Published: May 2017

This article reports the results of X-ray studies of the extended TeV γ-ray source VER J2019+368. Suzaku observations conducted to examine properties of the X-ray pulsar wind nebula (PWN) around PSR J2021+3651 revealed that the western region of the X-ray PWN has a source extent of

with the major axis oriented to that of the TeV emission. The PWN-west spectrum was closely fitted by a power law for absorption at

and a photon index of

, with no obvious change in the index within the X-ray PWN. The measured X-ray absorption indicates that the distance to the source is much less than the

inferred by radio data. Aside from the PWN, no extended emission was observed around PSR J2021+3651 even by Suzaku. Archival data from the XMM-Newton were also analyzed to complement the Suzaku observations, indicating that the eastern region of the X-ray PWN has a similar spectrum (

and

) and source extent up to at least

along the major axis. The lack of significant change in the photon index and the source extent in X-ray are used to constrain the advection velocity or the diffusion coefficient for accelerated X-ray-producing electrons. A mean magnetic field of

is required to account for the measured X-ray spectrum and reported TeV γ-ray spectrum. A model calculation of synchrotron radiation and inverse Compton scattering was able to explain

of the reported TeV flux, indicating that the X-ray PWN is a major contributor of VER J2019+368.
PHL 6625: A Minor Merger-associated QSO Behind NGC 247
Authors: Tao Lian , Feng Hua , Shen Yue , Ho Luis C. , Ge Junqiang , Kaaret Philip , Mao Shude , Liu Xin
Published: May 2017

PHL 6625 is a luminous quasi-stellar object (QSO) at z = 0.3954 located behind the nearby galaxy NGC 247 (z = 0.0005). Hubble Space Telescope observations revealed an arc structure associated with it. We report on spectroscopic observations with the Very Large Telescope and multiwavelength observations from the radio to the X-ray band for the system, suggesting that PHL 6625 and the arc are a close pair of merging galaxies, instead of a strong gravitational lens system. The QSO host galaxy is estimated to be (4–28) × 1010
M
☉ and the mass of the companion galaxy is estimated to be M
* = (6.8 ± 2.4) × 109
M
☉, suggesting that this is a minor merger system. The QSO displays typical broad emission lines, from which a black hole mass of about (2–5) × 108
M
☉ and an Eddington ratio of about 0.01–0.05 can be inferred. The system represents an interesting and rare case where a QSO is associated with an ongoing minor merger, analogous to Arp 142.
De Rome à Maastricht et au-delà, des principes pour consolider et faire progresser le projet européen
Authors: Villeroy de Galhau François
Published: May 2017

Depuis la signature du traité de Rome en 1957, l'Europe a fait preuve d'une volonté collective remarquable pour construire ces actifs partagés que sont le marché unique et l'euro. Le chemin n'a pas toujours été facile et la crise a mis crûment en lumière les lacunes de l'Union européenne. Mais la façon dont l'Europe a su, par le passé, relever les défis auxquels elle a été confrontée nous livre des enseignements forts pour l'avenir. Pour maîtriser notre destin commun, ce dont nous avons besoin ce n'est pas de moins d'Europe, mais d'une meilleure Europe, recentrée sur ses priorités. Au plan économique, il nous faut compléter le succès de l'Union monétaire par une véritable union économique, seule à même de soutenir durablement la croissance. Trois projets concrets doivent permettre d'y parvenir. D'abord, et dès maintenant, l'Union de financement pour l'investissement et l'innovation pour mieux utiliser l'épargne abondante au service de l'investissement et de l'innovation. Ensuite, une stratégie économique collective en zone euro, avec davantage de réformes nationales là où elles sont nécessaires, comme en France, et davantage de soutien budgétaire là où des marges de manœuvre existent. Cet engagement mutuel des États pourra être appuyé par un ministre des Finances de la zone euro. Enfin, à terme, une capacité budgétaire de la zone euro permettrait de compléter définitivement notre union avec un outil de stabilisation et de solidarité. Classification JEL : F15, F36, F38, F55, G28.
Un marché, une monnaie : un argument erroné ( post factum ) ?
Authors: Gros Daniel
Published: May 2017

Pourquoi l'Europe devait-elle opter pour une union monétaire ? « Un marché a besoin d'une monnaie ! » : voici, à première vue, l'argument clé du rapport influent de la Commission européenne intitulé « Un marché, une monnaie », publié en 1990. Une étude plus détaillée de ce rapport laisse toutefois entrevoir une situation assez différente. Le long sous-titre est plutôt agnostique : « Une évaluation des avantages et des coûts potentiels liés à la formation d'une union économique et monétaire ». Une analyse approfondie du rapport révèle que l'argument clé fonctionnait plutôt dans l'autre sens : une monnaie unique créerait un marché unique. Malheureusement, en 1990, les auteurs ne se rendaient pas compte qu'une « monnaie unique » encouragerait d'importants flux financiers transfrontaliers, lesquels conduiraient, un jour, à une crise financière très coûteuse. Classification JEL : F15, F36, F45, G28.
Les banques européennes se retirent-elles de la scène internationale ?
Authors: Schoenmaker Dirk
Published: May 2017

Après la crise, il semblerait que les banques européennes se retirent du système bancaire international. Elles délaissent par ailleurs le marché des activités de banque d'investissement au profit des grandes banques d'investissement américaines. Mais ce constat est-il juste ? Nos résultats montrent que les banques asiatiques ne subissent pas les effets des crises tandis que les activités des grandes banques américaines ont repris après une recapitalisation rapide et décisive en mars 2009. En Europe, la situation est contrastée. Les banques britanniques et suisses ont subi d'importantes restructurations et une diminution de leurs activités internationales. Les banques de la zone euro sont dans une position intermédiaire : elles ont subi de légères restructurations tout en préservant leur présence à l'international. Les responsables politiques doivent faire un choix. Nous préconisons d'achever l'Union bancaire et de confier la surveillance prudentielle à la BCE et le mécanisme de soutien budgétaire au MES. Cela placerait la zone euro sur un pied d'égalité avec les États-Unis et la Chine qui disposent d'un mécanisme de soutien budgétaire crédible pour leur système bancaire. À la suite du Brexit, nous suggérons que l'Autorité européenne des marchés financiers assume la fonction de superviseur central des marchés pour soutenir la création de marchés de capitaux dynamiques sur lesquels les banques d'investissement américaines mais également européennes pourraient jouer un rôle. Classification JEL : F36, F38, G21, G23, G28.
L'Europe de l'assurance et ses challenges
Authors: Kessler Denis
Published: May 2017

La construction de L'Europe de l'assurance a modifié radicalement le paysage de l'assurance européenne en permettant la pénétration des marchés nationaux par des concurrents européens et en favorisant une diversification internationale, surtout européenne, des portefeuilles de placement. Elle a également renforcé la sécurité des entreprises d'assurances au moyen d'exigences prudentielles adaptées. Pour achever ce marché unique de l'assurance européen, des progrès restent toutefois à faire notamment sur le plan réglementaire et de la supervision. Classification JEL : F36, G22, G28.
L'Union des marchés de capitaux : progrès réalisés et prochaines étapes
Authors: Guersent Olivier
Published: May 2017

L'une des priorités de la Commission européenne, présidée par Jean-Claude Juncker, est d'établir un véritable marché unique de capitaux – une Union des marchés de capitaux (UMC) pour tous les États membres – afin de renforcer l'économie européenne et stimuler l'investissement et la création d'emplois. Malgré les progrès réalisés en matière de libre circulation du capital – un objectif de longue date de l'Union européenne –, les marchés de capitaux européens demeurent fragmentés en fonction de frontières nationales, et les économies européennes restent fortement dépendantes du secteur bancaire pour leurs besoins de financement. Plus de la moitié des trente-trois mesures initiales ont déjà été réalisées par la Commission dans la première année suivant la publication du Plan d'action de l'UMC qui détaillait les éléments constitutifs de ce projet d'ici à 2019. Toutefois l'environnement économique actuel nécessite de renforcer les efforts entrepris. En conséquence, la révision à mi-parcours du Plan d'action de l'UMC permettra de faire un bilan de ce qui a été accompli, d'évaluer son efficacité à répondre aux défis politiques et de déterminer comment davantage progresser sur ses premières fondations. Classification JEL : F36, F38, G15, G18, G23.
Le défi des migrations : quelles options pour l'Europe ?
Authors: Constant Amélie F. , Zimmermann Klaus F.
Published: May 2017

Cet article examine la question des migrations et de la mobilité des travailleurs dans l'Union européenne (UE) et souligne leur importance pour la pérennité de l'UE. En dépit de tous les indicateurs de réussite, le débat public actuel semble révéler que le consensus politique selon lequel les migrations sont bénéfiques est rompu. Cela coïncide avec une crise des institutions européennes en général. Les migrations et la mobilité des travailleurs ne sont pas à l'origine du changement culturel perçu. L'UE, dans sa forme actuelle et avec les ambitions qui sont les siennes, pourrait parfaitement survivre ou s'effondrer même si elle surmontait le défi des migrations. Il est toutefois plus que probable qu'elle s'effondrera si elle ne parvient pas à résoudre la question des migrations en favorisant la mobilité des travailleurs dans l'UE et en établissant une politique migratoire extérieure commune. Classification JEL : D01, D02, D61, F02, F16, F22, F66, J60.
Finance et politique : la bourse préfère-t-elle la gauche ?
Authors: Charreaux Gérard
Published: May 2017

Aux États-Unis, les performances boursières semblent significativement plus élevées lorsque les Démocrates sont au pouvoir. Bien que les tests soient plus rares, il semble qu'une telle prime partisane existe également en France sous la gauche. L'objectif de cet article est de vérifier si l'existence d'une telle prime se confirme sur la période 1981-2016 lorsqu'on recourt à une méthode permettant de neutraliser l'incidence de la conjoncture internationale. Le point de vue considéré est celui d'un investisseur américain qui gère un portefeuille diversifié internationalement. Les résultats confirment l'existence d'une prime partisane en faveur de la gauche. Classification JEL : E44, G11, G12, G15.
« Les Jeux Olympiques pour qui ? ». Les actions du Comité Populaire de la Coupe du monde et des Jeux Olympiques de Rio de Janeiro contre un modèle urbain d’exclusion
Authors: de Luna Freire Leticia
Published: May 2017

Le processus de préparation des Jeux Olympiques 2016 a entraîné de grandes interventions urbaines à Rio de Janeiro. Il a dans le même temps suscité un conflit autour du récit associé à ce méga-événement sportif, catalysant des visions très différentes au sujet des conséquences de sa réalisation pour la population de la ville-hôte. Dans ce contexte, ce travail présente les résultats d’une recherche ethnographique qui s’attache à analyser les mobilisations collectives suscitées par la réalisation de la Coupe du monde 2014 et des Jeux Olympiques 2016 à Rio de Janeiro, particulièrement sur l’étude de cas des actions du Comité Populaire de la Coupe du monde et des Jeux Olympiques de Rio contre les violations de droits liées aux expropriations de logements populaires provoquées au nom d’un supposé « intérêt public ».
À propos de Pour une histoire politique de la race , de Jean-Frédéric Schaub
Authors: Michel Aurélia
Published: May 2017

Le livre de Jean-Frédéric Schaub, Pour une histoire politique de la race , publié en 2015, propose une discussion importante sur la définition historique du racisme. Il invite à élargir les repères classiques de la bibliographie anglo-saxonne au-delà de la question de l’esclavage nord-américain et de la « question noire » et suggère un autre point de départ du paradigme de la race, celui de l’émergence de l’antisémitisme dans l’Espagne du XVI e siècle. Cet article discute cette position en tentant d’en montrer les ressorts idéologiques, ainsi que les conséquences politiques et intellectuelles. Ce débat historiographique invite à se concentrer sur l’histoire des sociétés latino-américaines, afin de reconstituer la formation et la circulation du principe racial et de le ré-adosser à une histoire du colonialisme européen.
Du partage de connaissances au travail collaboratif : portées et limites des outils numériques
Authors: Benedetto-Meyer Marie , Klein Nicolas
Published: May 2017

Résumé Comment, dans une entreprise commerciale, faire collaborer des conseillers pour améliorer la relation client ? L'analyse d'une initiative lancée par une entreprise mobilisant progressivement des outils numériques dans ce sens, permet de s'interroger sur le rôle des outils dans la communication et de partage d'informations, et leur capacité à favoriser de nouvelles collaborations et le développement d'organisations plus coopératives et transversales.
Les habits neufs de la communication de marque sur le web social
Authors: Jammet Thomas
Published: May 2017

Résumé La présence des entreprises sur les plateformes du web social (web 2.0) connaît un développement considérable depuis le tournant des années 2010. Cet article décrit le travail d'intermédiation des salariés chargés d'administrer ces nouveaux espaces promotionnels interactifs, confrontés à un afflux massif de requêtes de la part des internautes, et soumis à une forte pression temporelle. Il révèle que l'activité de community management, conçue comme une innovation organisationnelle destinée à renforcer la proximité des entreprises à leurs clients connectés, nécessite d'être davantage régulée pour pouvoir s'inscrire durablement dans les stratégies de communication et de gestion de la relation client articulées sur la technologie numérique.
Le numérique au coeur des soins de santé : des médecins généralistes 2.0 ?
Authors: Slomian Cynthia
Published: May 2017

Résumé Grâce au « Plan d'action e-Santé 2013-2018 », l'État belge souhaite accélérer le mouvement vers une santé intégrée, soutenue par l'utilisation généralisée des TIC par les professionnels de la santé. Parmi eux, les médecins généralistes sont soumis à toute une série de nouvelles exigences, indifférenciées, peu importe qu'ils travaillent seuls, en association ou en maison médicale. Pourtant, le type d'exercice de la médecine, l'âge des médecins, les dimensions de l'activité professionnelle et les relations à l'environnement apparaissent comme des variables qui influencent la manière dont l'e-santé s'intègre à leur pratique quotidienne. À la vision technocentrée des autorités se confronte toute la diversité des stratégies développées par les médecins pour faire face à ces nouvelles exigences.
L’application Crisorsec , un dispositif numérique au coeur des enjeux de la gestion des crises en milieu métropolitain
Authors: Créton-Cazanave Laurence , Boboc Anca , Ould-Ferhat Laurence
Published: May 2017

Résumé La gestion des crises en milieu métropolitain requiert la participation d'un nombre grandissant d'acteurs, publics et privés. L'application numérique Crisorsec vise à faciliter l'échange d'informations en temps réel entre ces partenaires. L'étude de ce dispositif et de ses usages montre que si l'application a été pensée selon une logique de partage horizontal et collaboratif entre les partenaires, sa mise en  uvre se heurte à la difficulté de contourner certaines logiques verticales institutionnelles héritées. Cela est d'autant plus saillant que le cercle des acteurs impliqués s'élargit, et que le centre de l'action se déplace. In fine, les questions des apprentissages collectifs et de la gouvernance de l'outil apparaissent centrales pour assurer l'utilité et la pérennité du dispositif.
L’immobilier à l’épreuve du numérique : du bureau attribué au bureau de demain
Authors: Ianeva Maria , Adam Cécile
Published: May 2017

Résumé Ce recueil de témoignages cherche à apporter un éclairage sur les évolutions conjointes du numérique et de l'aménagement de bureaux. De plus en plus d'entreprises investissent aujourd'hui l'organisation de leurs espaces de travail comme source de valeur et levier de transformation. Nous présentons les témoignages de trois acteurs de l'immobilier tertiaire : deux consultants workplace, dont l'un spécialisé dans le digital et le directeur commercial d'un fabricant, éditeur et distributeur de mobilier de bureau. Les interviewés reviennent sur les évolutions récentes des environnements de travail et portent leur regard sur le bureau de demain.
Hamartoma of the spleen (splenoma) with calcifications in a child with beta-thalassemia: A case report
Authors: Giambelluca Dario , Picone Dario , Lo Re Giuseppe , Pappalardo Salvatore , Romeo Placido
Published: May 2017

Splenic hamartoma (or splenoma) is a rare, benign, vascular tumor, often incidentally found at imaging, surgery or autopsy. Albeit usually asymptomatic and rare in children, when it occurs in the pediatric population it is more commonly symptomatic. We report a case of a 15-year-old girl with iron-deficiency anemia and beta-thalassemia, who had a large (10 x 8 x 7 cm) splenic lesion with calcifications, incidentally found during follow-up for splenomegaly and histologically characterized as hamartoma with calcified areas. The association of hamartoma and hematological disorders is a very unusual condition in children.
A Cognitive Tutor of Arabic Word Root Extraction Using Artificial Word Generation, Scaffolding and Self-Explanation
Authors: Elazhary Hanan Hamed , Khodeir Nabila
Published: May 2017

Extracting the roots (stemming) of Arabic words is one of the most challenging skills taught to Arabic language learners. To address this challenge, this paper proposes the Arabic word Root extraction Tutor (ART). ART is a cognitive tutor intended to teach students production rules needed for Arabic word root extraction. In the passive mode, ART accepts an input word and generates its root with explanation. In the active mode, on the other hand, words are generated by ART and the student is prompted to provide the correct roots. ART integrates several techniques for enhanced tutoring. It provides a positive feedback for a correct answer and a negative one otherwise. In the latter case, Prompting Answer Strategy (PAS) is employed, where the student is guided to detect the error by integrating scaffolding and self-explanation. Scaffolding prompts the student to apply the relevant production rule step by step. In each step, a number of options are given to the student to select the correct one via self-explanation. If the error persists, the correct answer is generated with explanation. In addition to generating real words, artificial words are generated using the production rules. This novel technique is intended to ensure that the student applies the production rules rather than memorizes the roots of common words. Evaluation has shown the effectiveness of ART tutoring process and suggests artificial word generation as a promising technique in language tutoring.
Design of Immersive Virtual Reality System to Improve Communication Skills in Individuals with Autism
Authors: Halabi Osama , Abou El-Seoud Samir , Alja'am Jihad , Alpona Hena , Al-Hemadi Moza , Al-Hassan Dabia
Published: May 2017

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) regularly experience situations in which they need to give answers but do not know how to respond; for example, questions related to everyday life activities that are asked by strangers. Research geared at utilizing technology to mend social and communication impairments in children with autism is actively underway. Immersive virtual reality (VR) is a relatively recent technology that has the potential of being an effective therapeutic tool for developing various skills in autistic children. This paper presents an interactive scenario-based VR system developed to improve the communications skills of autistic children. The system utilizes speech recognition to provide natural interaction and role-play and turn-taking to evaluate and verify the effectiveness of the immersive environment on the social performance of autistic children. In experiments conducted, participants showed more improved performance with a computer augmented virtual environment (CAVE) than with a head mounted display (HMD) or a normal desktop. The results indicate that immersive VR could be more satisfactory and motivational than desktop for children with ASD.
Checking on Preferential Choices of E-learning & M-learning: A Case Study of Northern Border University, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alenezi Ahmed
Published: May 2017

The development of new E-learning technologies and the arrival of mobile learning systems have brought greater impact on the education sector especially towards higher education learning system. There is no doubt that it is extremely useful for all those individuals lacking sufficient time for their studies. They can use such electronic forms of learning to enjoy the anytime & anywhere learning environment. It has attracted the attention of big software industry owners as well as mobile technology based companies over the period. M-learning is able to provide the learners with learning opportunities with greater capabilities through the use of mobile phones or smart-phones. Northern Border University (NBU) in Saudi Arabia is already using several online and offline automated software’s & Blackboard LMSs in its various Deanships, Colleges and Departments for student’s self-learning purposes. This case study aims to assess the behavioral differences of students/faculty members using E-learning (Mobile Apps/ Web applications) to learn/teach the respective subjects. It discusses about the perceptions of students/faculty members about M-learning & E-learning including the modes and their maximum uses of certain mobile App/Web Application whether offline or online. There are five criteria and for each criterion questionnaires are designed to take the opinions from different groups. Likert scale method is used here. Statistical testing method T-Test is used here to calculate the results among the groups.
Towards Regimes for Sustainable Mineral Resource Management—Constitutional Reform, Law and Judicial Decisions in Latin America
Authors: Bastida Ana Elizabeth , Bustos Luis
Published: May 2017

This chapter examines mining legislation trends in Latin America. It focuses on the interpretation of the judicial decisions of the Constitutional Court of Colombia regarding conditions and processes for decision-making in the context of mining projects. The authors present an initial overview of the economic organisation and the sector legislation model adopted in Bolivia. The chapter anticipates a shift from sectoral regimes, which focus on exploration and exploitation, towards regimes for decision-making processes that mainstream constitutional principles and legal frameworks that apply to managing territories and their natural resources. The emphasis lies on reflecting on gaps in legal and institutional design and on corresponding challenges. This includes the need to strengthen the capacities of institutions and the actors that participate in decision-making processes to advance efforts aimed at furthering sustainable mineral resource management in the region.
Recognizing Factors Affecting Manpower Productivity Based on Kano Model
Authors: Hashemi Nazanin , Khani Naser
Published: May 2017

The main purpose of this study was to recognize, classify and determine priority of factors affecting human resource productivity in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province Electricity Distribution Company using Kano model. This study is applied and is descriptive-survey research that is done cross-sectional. Sample size was estimated as 92 personnel of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province Electricity Distribution Company using Morgan Table. Classified random sampling was used in order to select sample and distribute questionnaires. Questionnaire stability was calculated as 0.89 using Cranach's alpha method. Descriptive statistics, single sample Kolmogorov–Smirnov test and Friedman test. Over all, the obtained results prove that 15 out of 11 noticed factors are one- dimensional, 2 are indifferent and 2 are attractive factors. Personnel performance evaluation, meritocracy and performance feedback have first, second and third priority.
An Empirical Study for Human Behavior Analysis
Authors: Lu Jia , Shen Jun , Yan Wei Qi , Bačić Boris
Published: May 2017

This paper presents an empirical study for human behavior analysis based on three distinct feature extraction techniques: Histograms of Oriented Gradients (HOG), Local Binary Pattern (LBP) and Scale Invariant Local Ternary Pattern (SILTP). The utilised public videos representing spatio-temporal problem area of investigation include INRIA person detection and Weizmann pedestrian activity datasets. For INRIA dataset, both LBP and HOG were able to eliminate redundant video data and show human-intelligible feature visualisation of extracted features required for classification tasks. However, for Weizmann dataset only HOG feature extraction was found to work well with classifying five selected activities/exercises (walking, running, skipping, jumping and jacking).
Supporting Electronic Collaborative Experiences at Universities Based on Learning Spaces and LAMS
Authors: Papadimitriou Sofia Th. , Papadakis Spyros , Lionarakis Antonis Emm.
Published: May 2017

The development of networks and web based environments combined with modern learning theories compose the new area of Learning Spaces aiming at enhancing interactive processes between educators, the Net generation's learners and the educational content. Collaboration at a distance (e-collaboration) supported by advanced learning technologies is today feasible and effective at a large scale opening up new perspectives in higher education. The paper presents a case study at the Hellenic Open University regarding the development of a learning sequence aimed at achieving high degrees of interactions among students, students and educators, and also at guiding them between face-to-face meetings when they prepare an essay. The Learning Space of the case study is realized by authoring sequences of learning activities using an LMS LAMS. Extending the case study, a methodology is illustrated to author collaborative sequences using LMS addressing to Open Universities in particular and also to conventional Universities in general.
A Fuzzy TOPSIS Method for Selecting An E-banking Outsourcing Strategy
Authors: Ravasan Ahad Zare , Hanafizadeh Payam , Olfat Laya , Taghavifard Mohammad Taghi
Published: May 2017

Selecting the appropriate IT outsourcing (ITO) strategy is important for firms in general and banking institutions in particular to achieve expected benefits, but it remains complex, risky and lengthy process for clients to select the appropriate ITO strategy. Previous academic efforts to support ITO decision incorporated a limited number of factors, which is over-simplification of multi-faceted real world problems. In this paper, after doing in-depth literature review for identifying influencing factors on such ITO decisions, a model with an application of Fuzzy TOPSIS based approach is proposed to rank and prioritize the alternatives. Throughout this study, the authors use data from a real banking case to run the model for supporting outsourcing decision for five ATM, POS, tele-banking, mobile, and internet-banking services. The proposed model can help ITO decision makers advance their decision making process, especially where parameters involve uncertainties and hardly can be assessed by human judgment.
Critical Questions in Enterprise Architecture Research
Authors: Kotusev Svyatoslav
Published: May 2017

The current enterprise architecture (EA) theory originates from the Business Systems Planning (BSP) methodology initiated by IBM in the 1960s and describes EA as a comprehensive blueprint of an enterprise organized according to a certain framework and describing the current state, the desired future state and the roadmap for transition between them. However, in this paper I demonstrate that the current EA theory poses more questions than answers and is, arguably, in an unsatisfactory state. This paper highlights the critical questions in EA research and is intended to spark further conversation in the EA research community. All the formulated questions address the fundamental aspects of the current EA theory that are critically important for the whole EA discipline. Although this paper does not propose any answers to these questions, it makes a non-theoretical contribution to the EA discipline by critically evaluating the current EA theory, provoking new thoughts and stimulating further research that will substantially alter the EA discipline in the future.