bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combination Pravastatin and Valsartan Treatment Has Additive Beneficial Effects to Simultaneously Improve Both Metabolic and Cardiovascular Phenotypes Beyond That of Monotherapy With Either Drug in Patients With Primary Hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Koh Kwang Kon , Lim Soo , Choi Hanul , Lee Yonghee , Han Seung Hwan , Lee Kyounghoon , Oh Pyung Chun , Sakuma Ichiro , Shin Eak Kyun , Quon Michael J.
Published: July 2013

Statin and angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker therapy improves endothelial dysfunction using distinct mechanisms. We evaluated simultaneous vascular and metabolic responses to pravastatin and valsartan therapy, alone or in combination, in hypercholesterolemic patients. Forty-eight hypercholesterolemic patients (23 had metabolic syndrome) were given pravastatin 40 mg and placebo, pravastatin 40 mg and valsartan 160 mg, or valsartan 160 mg and placebo daily during each 2-month treatment period in a randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial with three treatment arms and two washout periods (each 2 months). Brachial artery flow-mediated dilation and C-reactive protein improved to a greater extent with combined therapy compared with either monotherapy. Importantly, we also observed simultaneous improvement in metabolic phenotypes, with all three treatments causing increased plasma adiponectin levels, reduced fasting insulin levels, and increased insulin sensitivity relative to baseline measurements. For the first time in a statin combination trial, pravastatin combined with valsartan therapy increased plasma adiponectin, lowered fasting insulin levels, and improved insulin sensitivity in an additive manner when compared with monotherapy alone. In contrast to other statins, hydrophilic pavastatin may be combined with other drugs to safely reach lipid target levels while simultaneously improving the metabolic and cardiovascular phenotype of patients at high risk.
Comparison of ultrasonography and histologic examination for identification of ocular diseases of animals: 113 cases (2000–2010)
Authors: Gallhoefer Nicolin S. , Bentley Ellison , Ruetten Maja , Grest Paula , Haessig Michael , Kircher Patrick R. , Dubielzig Richard R. , Spiess Bernhard M. , Pot Simon A.
Published: July 2013

Objective—To compare ultrasonographic and histologic examination findings for eyes of animals with ocular diseases.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—116 eyes of 113 animals examined at 2 facilities.

Procedures—Diseased eyes of animals were examined by means of ultrasonography, removed via enucleation or exenteration, then histologically examined. Ultrasonographic images and histopathologic slides were evaluated, and diseases of eyes were identified with each of those methods and allocated to various categories. For each disease category, agreement between results of ultrasonography and those of histologic examination was assessed via determination of κ statistic values.

Results—Tests had good agreement for identification of iris or ciliary body neoplasia. Overall, intraocular neoplasia was not detected via ultrasonography for only 2 of 31 eyes with histologically detected neoplasia. Hemorrhagic or inflammatory changes were misinterpreted as neoplasia for 8 of 37 (22%) eyes. Tests had moderate to acceptable agreement for identification of retinal detachment. Retinal detachment was not detected by means of ultrasonography for 14 of 38 (37%) eyes with that diagnosis determined via histologic examination at one of the facilities (primarily in eyes with intraocular hemorrhage); however, retinal detachment was not identified via histologic examination for 6 of 38 (16%) eyes with that diagnosis determined via ultrasonography at the other facility.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Agreement between tests evaluated in this study was clinically satisfactory for identification of intraocular neoplasia. Typically, diseases were misdiagnosed via ultrasonography for eyes with poor image contrast. Because determination of ultrasonographic diagnoses of retinal detachment and intraocular neoplasm may be of prognostic importance, performance of additional ultrasonographic techniques may be indicated.
Arterial thrombosis after vehicular trauma and humeral fracture in a dog
Authors: DePaula Kristina M. , deLaforcade Armelle M. , King Ryan G. , Hughs Holly , Boudrieau Randy J.
Published: July 2013

Case Description—A 3-year-old 19-kg (42-lb) spayed female mixed-breed dog was referred after being hit by a car. Injuries included pneumothorax, hemothorax, pulmonary contusions, a full-thickness axillary skin wound, and a grade I transverse fracture of the midshaft of the right humerus. Following patient stabilization, open reduction and internal fixation of the fracture were performed. The dog had weight-bearing lameness at the time of discharge. Eight days after fracture repair, the dog was reevaluated for acute onset of signs of pain and non–weight-bearing lameness in the right forelimb.

Clinical Findings—Physical examination findings in the right forelimb (knuckling and coolness, with absent digital pulses) were suggestive of a thrombus. Ultrasonography confirmed a right brachial artery thrombus with minimal blood flow to the affected limb.

Treatment and Outcome—Unfractionated heparin was administered via continuous IV infusion for the first 36 hours of hospitalization. Clopidogrel administration was also started at this time. During hospitalization, rapid clinical improvement occurred, and the dog was discharged 48 hours after admission. The transition to outpatient therapy was achieved by discontinuation of the unfractionated heparin infusion at 36 hours and beginning SC administration of dalteparin. Outpatient treatment with dalteparin and clopidogrel was continued. Repeated physical examination and ultrasonography 5 weeks later revealed resolution of the thrombus and normal blood flow to the limb. Anticoagulant administration was discontinued at that time.

Clinical Relevance—Thrombosis should be suspected in any dog with signs of acute pain after severe trauma or fracture repair, with or without concurrent lameness, that do not resolve with appropriate treatment. Restoration of blood flow to the affected limb after initiation of unfractionated heparin and clopidogrel administration followed by outpatient treatment with dalteparin and clopidogrel was achieved in this case.
Evaluation of survival rate and athletic ability after nonsurgical or surgical treatment of cleft palate in horses: 55 cases (1986–2008)
Authors: Murray Shannon J. , Elce Yvonne A. , Woodie J. Brett , Embertson Rolf M. , Robertson James T. , Beard Warren L.
Published: July 2013

Objective—To determine survival rate and athletic ability after nonsurgical or surgical treatment of cleft palate in horses.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—55 horses with cleft palate.

Procedures—13 of the 55 horses died or were euthanized without treatment and were not included in all analyses. Medical records were reviewed for signalment, history, method of diagnosis, soft or hard palate involvement, type of surgical procedure performed, postoperative complications, and survival to hospital discharge. Information on athletic ability was acquired from race records and follow-up conversations with owners, trainers, or referring veterinarians.

Results—The predominant reason for initial evaluation was milk or feed in the nostrils (60%). The diagnosis was confirmed by means of videoendoscopy of the upper portion of the airway in all cases. Most cases involved the soft palate only (92.7%). Twenty-six of the 55 (47.3%) horses underwent surgical repair, and 12 of these had dehiscence at the caudal edge of the soft palate. Among potential racehorses, 14 of 33 had surgery. Of these, 12 of 14 survived to discharge and 2 horses raced. Among potential racehorses, 10 of 33 were discharged without surgery and 2 of these raced. Among nonracehorses, 12 of 22 underwent surgery and 11 survived to discharge. All horses that were discharged and for which follow-up information was available survived to 2 years of age or older without ill thrift despite dehiscence at the caudal edge of the soft palate and continued mild nasal discharge.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Horses with cleft palate had a higher survival rate than previously reported.
Mechanism of rhodamine 6G molecular aggregation in montmorillonite colloid
Authors: Lofaj Marcel , Valent Ivan , Bujdák Juraj
Published: July 2013

Stopped-flow mixing device and visible absorption spectroscopy were used for the analysis of dye rhodamine 6G (R6G) molecular aggregation in the colloids based on Na-saturated montmorillonite. Two stages of the reaction were identified: The first stage was very short and taking only several seconds, involving the adsorption of R6G cations and their initial aggregation on the surface of colloid particles. The initially formed J-aggregates exhibited similar spectral properties as monomeric form of R6G. In the second stage, initially formed aggregates converted to sandwich-type H-aggregates absorbing light at significantly lower wavelengths and adsorbed monomers. The aggregate rearrangement took several hours. Monomers, with the spectral properties identical to R6G solution, were also identified as a component in complex spectra using principal component analysis (PCA) and multivariate curve resolution (MCR). Partial bleaching of the dye was also proven. Reaction kinetics of the rearrangement of the aggregates followed the model considering a complex mechanism of the molecular aggregation. Data fits using stretched-exponential function led to the determination of rate constants, which had been in the range 10−3−4×10−3s−1.
Antioxidant and chemical properties of Inula helenium root extracts
Authors: Spiridon Iuliana , Nechita Constantin , Niculaua Marius , Silion Mihaela , Armatu Alice , Teacă Carmen-Alice , Bodîrlău Ruxanda
Published: July 2013

The objective of the paper was to investigate the chemical composition of Inula helenium roots extracts and to evaluate the antioxidant potential conferred by the chemical constituents. GC/MS and HPLC/MS techniques were used to characterize two extracts separated from Inula helenium roots by extraction with chloroform and ethyl acetate, respectively. Volatile compounds have been identified by GC from their mass spectra and retention time values, while HPLC identification of phenolic compounds was realized by comparing their retention times, UV and MS spectra with those of standards or literature data. Measurements of antioxidant activity of Inula helenium root extracts showed a variation between them, which can be correlated with the flavonoid and total phenolic contents. Both Inula helenium root extracts contain phenolic acids (caffeic, chlorogenic, dicaffeoyl quinic, hydroxibenzoic), terpenes (alantolactone) and different flavonoids (epicatechin, catechin gallate, ferulic acid-4-O-glucoside, dihydroquercetin pentosyl rutinoside, kaempherol-7-O-dipentoside, quercetin-3-O-β-glucopyranoside). In addition, the study provides preliminary data on the anti-inflammatory activity of Inula helenium root extracts, this being evaluated using the fresh egg albumin as phlogistic agent, and aspirin as reference compound. Root extracts of I. helenium did not exert any significant anti-inflammatory effect on egg albumin-induced rat paw edema.
Use of direct immersion solid-phase microextraction on polyacrylate and polydimethylsiloxane stationary phases for simultaneous determination of the neutral and basic pharmaceuticals in wastewater
Authors: Kotowska Urszula , Bieńczyk Katarzyna
Published: July 2013

Direct immersion solid-phase microextraction has been optimized and applied to the simultaneous determination of the neutral and basic pharmaceuticals: caffeine, carbamazepine, clomipramine, chlorprothixene and clotrimazole at low concentrations in municipal wastewater. Two absorption type stationary phases: polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and polyacrylate (PA) have been found to be most effective for extraction of target analytes. The separation and detection were carried out by gas chromatograph coupled with mass spectrometer working in the selected ion monitoring mode. The method was validated for linearity, detection and quantitation limits, selectivity and precision. The average correlation coefficient of the calibration curves was 0.9933. The LOD values in influent and effluent wastewater were in the range of 10–145 ng L−1 and 4–111 ng L−1, respectively, which were a bit higher than those in the deionized water due to matrix effect. The high values of distribution coefficient (K fs ) in PDMS/water and PA/water systems (log K fs between 3.05 and 4.23) indicates the very high applicability of these stationary phases for determination of carbamazepine, clomipramine, chlorprothixene and clotrimazole in water samples.
Implementation of PLS discriminant analysis to rank indirubin derivatives against decoys
Authors: Crisan Luminita , Pacureanu Liliana , Avram Sorin , Bora Alina , Kurunczi Ludovic
Published: July 2013

Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) is employed to obtain novel combinations of energetic terms present in classical scoring functions, which exceed and compensates the “traditional” consensus scheme. These novel scoring functions were involved to rank the database of indirubin inhibitors of glycogen synthase kinase-3β and cyclin dependent kinase-2 decoys from Directory of Useful Decoys. The ability of docking-scoring algorithm to prioritize the actives is assessed by means of several metrics. The best classification function includes donor component of Chemgauss2, steric contribution from Chemgauss3 and rotatable bond term of ScreenScore and provide significant improvement of enrichment factor at 5% of database.
Co-creation with Consumers: Who has the Competence and Wants to Cooperate?
Authors: Vernette Eric , Kidar Linda Hamdi
Published: July 2013

Lead users and emergent nature consumers are two highly attractive targets for marketing co-creation. Based on a representative sample of the French population (n = 995), we show that the competence and engagement in co-creation of these two target groups are significantly greater than for other consumers. This result is encouraging for market research companies that face a growing reluctance of customer participation in marketing studies. In addition, we have normed the distribution of lead user and emergent nature consumer scores among the population. This results in specific reference points for naming customer data while at the same time making it easier to filter respondents for future co-creation initiatives.
Radio-echo sounding and ice volume estimates of western Nordenskiöld Land glaciers, Svalbard
Authors: Martín-Español A. , Vasilenko E.V. , Navarro F.J. , Otero J. , Lapazaran J.J. , Lavrentiev I. , Macheret Y.Y. , Machío F.
Published: July 2013

As part of ongoing work to obtain a reliable estimate of the total ice volume of Svalbard glaciers and their potential contribution to sea-level rise, we present here volume calculations, with detailed error estimates, for ten glaciers on western Nordenskiöld Land, central Spitsbergen, Svalbard. The volume estimates are based upon a dense net of GPR-retrieved ice thickness data collected over several field campaigns spanning the period 1999-2012. The total area and volume of the ensemble are 116.06 ± 4.53 km2 and 10.439 ±0.373 km3, respectively, while the individual areas, volumes and average ice thickness lie within 2.6-50.4 km2, 0.08-5.54 km3 and 29-108 m, respectively. Volume/area scaling relationships overestimate the total volume of these glaciers by up to 35% with respect to our calculation. On the basis of the pattern of scattering in the radargrams, we also analyse the hydrothermal structure of these glaciers. Nine of the ten are polythermal, while only one is entirely cold.
Assessing value relevance of comprehensive income in European banks and other financial institutions
Authors: Mechelli Alessandro , Cimini Riccardo
Published: July 2013

The IAS/IFRS compliant groups have been disclosing comprehensive income since 2009, when the IAS 1-revised became effective. This paper aims to investigate the value relevance of comprehensive income and its components in European banks and other financial institutions. The research has been developed by having a sample of 166 European listed groups whose data have been collected in the 2009, 2010 and 2011 (498 firm-year observations) consolidated financial statements. In contrast to previous findings, related to all the sectors, our research highlights a higher value relevance of comprehensive income in respect to net income. Moving to the single OCI components, our results suggest that gains and losses on remeasuring available-for-sale financial assets (AFSit) are value relevant in European banks and other financial institutions.
Nd Isotope Mapping of Crustal Terranes in the Parent-Clova Area, Quebec: Implications for the Evolution of the Laurentian Margin in the Central Grenville Province
Authors: Zelek Mark , Dickin Alan
Published: July 2013

Over 100 new Nd isotope analyses for the central Grenville Province in the Parent-Clova region of Quebec help fill a major gap in understanding the crustal accretion history of the province. Nd model ages show that the Parent-Clova region consists of three crustal blocks: the Archean parautochthon in the north; a central block with mixed ages interpreted as an ensialic arc; and a southerly block forming an extension of the Mesoproterozoic Quebecia arc terrane. The Allochthon Boundary Thrust is believed to define the edge of the Archean parautochthon, which is bordered for a distance of 300 km by the ensialic arc block, within which model ages decrease consistently away from the craton. A similar negative correlation between Nd model age and distance from the craton is seen in published data for the Algonquin terrane in Ontario, but with a lower range of model ages. These comparisons show that in the Parent-Clova region, a Mesoproterozoic ensialic arc was established directly on the Archean margin, but further west, the Mesoproterozoic arc was built on a younger margin consisting of accreted Palaeoproterozoic arc crust. The use of large Nd data sets allows these distinct regional growth patterns to become clear and, hence, allows an understanding of Mesoproterozoic crustal evolution in the province as a whole.
Epigenetics Meets Radiation Biology as a New Approach in Cancer Treatment
Authors: Kim Joong-Gook , Park Moon-Taek , Heo Kyu , Yang Kwang-Mo , Yi Joo
Published: July 2013

Cancer is a disease that results from both genetic and epigenetic changes. In recent decades, a number of people have investigated the disparities in gene expression resulting from variable DNA methylation alteration and chromatin structure modification in response to the environment. Especially, colon cancer is a great model system for investigating the epigenetic mechanism for aberrant gene expression alteration. Ionizing radiation (IR) could affect a variety of processes within exposed cells and, in particular, cause changes in gene expression, disruption of cell cycle arrest, and apoptotic cell death. Even though there is growing evidence on the importance of epigenetics and biological processes induced by radiation exposure in various cancer types including colon cancer, specific epigenetic alterations induced by radiation at the molecular level are incompletely defined. This review focuses on discussing possible IR-mediated changes of DNA methylation and histone modification in cancer.
Scattering of Electromagnetic Waves by Many Nano-Wires
Authors: Ramm Alexander
Published: July 2013

Electromagnetic wave scattering by many parallel to the z−axis, thin, impedance, parallel, infinite cylinders is studied asymptotically as a → 0. Let Dm be the cross-section of the m−th cylinder, a be its radius and x ^ m = (x m1 , x m2 ) be its center, 1 ≤ m ≤ M , M = M (a). It is assumed that the points, x ^ m , are distributed, so that N(Δ)= 1 2πa ∫ Δ N ( x ^ )d x ^ [1+o(1)] where N (∆) is the number of points, x ^ m , in an arbitrary open subset, ∆, of the plane, xoy. The function, N( x ^ ) ≥0 , is a continuous function, which an experimentalist can choose. An equation for the self-consistent (effective) field is derived as a → 0. A formula is derived for the refraction coefficient in the medium in which many thin impedance cylinders are distributed. These cylinders may model nano-wires embedded in the medium. One can produce a desired refraction coefficient of the new medium by choosing a suitable boundary impedance of the thin cylinders and their distribution law.
Decomposition Mechanisms and Kinetics of Novel Energetic Molecules BNFF-1 and ANFF-1: Quantum-Chemical Modeling
Authors: Tsyshevsky Roman , Kuklja Maija
Published: July 2013

Decomposition mechanisms, activation barriers, Arrhenius parameters, and reaction kinetics of the novel explosive compounds, 3,4-bis(4-nitro-1,2,5-oxadiazol-3-yl)-1,2,5-oxadiazole (BNFF-1), and 3-(4-amino-1,2,5-oxadiazol-3-yl)-4-(4-nitro-1,2,5-oxadiazol-3-yl)-1,2,5-oxadiazole (ANFF-1) were explored by means of density functional theory with a range of functionals combined with variational transition state theory. BNFF-1 and ANFF-1 were recently suggested to be good candidates for insensitive high energy density materials. Our modeling reveals that the decomposition initiation in both BNFF-1 and ANFF-1 molecules is triggered by ring cleavage reactions while the further process is defined by a competition between two major pathways, the fast C-NO2 homolysis and slow nitro-nitrite isomerization releasing NO. We discuss insights on design of new energetic materials with targeted properties gained from our modeling.
Retinal Identification Based on an Improved Circular Gabor Filter and Scale Invariant Feature Transform
Authors: Meng Xianjing , Yin Yilong , Yang Gongping , Xi Xiaoming
Published: July 2013

Retinal identification based on retinal vasculatures in the retina provides the most secure and accurate means of authentication among biometrics and has primarily been used in combination with access control systems at high security facilities. Recently, there has been much interest in retina identification. As digital retina images always suffer from deformations, the Scale Invariant Feature Transform (SIFT), which is known for its distinctiveness and invariance for scale and rotation, has been introduced to retinal based identification. However, some shortcomings like the difficulty of feature extraction and mismatching exist in SIFT-based identification. To solve these problems, a novel preprocessing method based on the Improved Circular Gabor Transform (ICGF) is proposed. After further processing by the iterated spatial anisotropic smooth method, the number of uninformative SIFT keypoints is decreased dramatically. Tested on the VARIA and eight simulated retina databases combining rotation and scaling, the developed method presents promising results and shows robustness to rotations and scale changes.
Nuclear Imprisonment: Viral Strategies to Arrest Host mRNA Nuclear Export
Authors: Kuss Sharon , Mata Miguel , Zhang Liang , Fontoura Beatriz
Published: July 2013

Viruses possess many strategies to impair host cellular responses to infection. Nuclear export of host messenger RNAs (mRNA) that encode antiviral factors is critical for antiviral protein production and control of viral infections. Several viruses have evolved sophisticated strategies to inhibit nuclear export of host mRNAs, including targeting mRNA export factors and nucleoporins to compromise their roles in nucleo-cytoplasmic trafficking of cellular mRNA. Here, we present a review of research focused on suppression of host mRNA nuclear export by viruses, including influenza A virus and vesicular stomatitis virus, and the impact of this viral suppression on host antiviral responses.
Le rôle du processus de fonctionnalité dans la professionnalisation et le développement professionnel des enseignants
Authors: Huard Valérie
Published: July 2013

C’est à partir d’un module de formation en master destiné à la formation des enseignants et intitulé « projet personnel de développement professionnel » que nous nous proposons d’interroger le processus de fonctionnalité engendré. Ce processus se définit comme la conscientisation par les formés de l’articulation de la théorie à la pratique dans la construction de leurs compétences. Après avoir décrit le contexte dans lequel ce module est proposé aux étudiants et précisé le modèle de développement en référence aux théories du développement (Super, 1953 ; Huberman, 1989), nous montrerons d’abord comment 79 étudiants se sont auto-évalués en termes de compétences professionnelles en pratiquant notamment une autobiographie écrite à propos de ces compétences. Nous analysons ensuite l’évolution de cette auto-évaluation après les deux stages pour explorer l’articulation de la théorie à la pratique construite par les formés dans le processus de fonctionnalité. Nous ouvrirons la réflexion aux futures formations d’enseignants, la finalité étant de ne pas utiliser les processus observés pour construire des modalités de formation mais les envisager comme une propédeutique au développement professionnel des formés.
Les enjeux de la sécurité de l'information dans le monde économique
Authors: Deville de Periere Dominique
Published: July 2013

J’ai choisi d’axer mon propos sur une réflexion autour de ce que l’on peut appeler : les enjeux de sécurité de l’information dans le monde économique. C’est ce que les étudiants abordent au cours de leurs études sous le vocable « d’intelligence économique ». Ce concept, assez récent, aborde l’exploitation d’informations utiles destinées aux acteurs économiques et présente une fonction stratégique pour les entreprises ; sa finalité c’est la compétitivité et la sécurité de l’économie de votre pays. Classification JEL : L86M15, D83, D80, O33
Engagement international et pratiques de veille stratégique : cas des PME exportatrices
Authors: Laghzaoui Soulaimane , Monnoyer-Longé Marie-Christine
Published: July 2013

Cet article propose un model conceptuel des pratiques de veille stratégique (VS) des PME exportatrices et leur relation avec le niveau d’engagement à l’international. Les résultats montrent que la sensibilité à l’information des dirigeants, influencée par le niveau d’engagement international de leur entreprise, joue un rôle central dans l’organisation de leurs pratiques de veille stratégique. Notre étude porte sur les PME exportatrices québécoises et a utilisé la méthode PLS (Partial Least Squares, méthode des moindres carrés partiels) pour la vérification de nos hypothèses de recherche. Classification JEL  : D83, L32, L26, C12
Les TIC un outil indispensable pour une démarche d'intelligence économique
Authors: Monino Jean-Louis , Sedkaoui Soraya
Published: July 2013

Face à une forte évolution tant sur le plan technologique qu’économique, les entreprises doivent être à l’écoute de leur environnement. Ce dernier a donné naissance à ce qu’on appelle société de ‘information, dans laquelle la gestion et la rapidité de l’information sont devenues déterminantes en matière de compétitivité. Dans ce nouvel ordre de l’information les technologies de l’information et de la communication (TIC) représentent une source d’information de plus en importante pour l’entreprise, vu leur place dans la maitrise des changements contemporains. Notre article se focaliser sur le rôle des TIC dans une démarche d’intelligence économique (IE), en tant que source permettant d’accéder à l’information, de la collecter et de la maitriser pour se positionner dans une perspective de performance. Classification JEL : L86, M15, D83, O33, M21
Tensions normatives et rapport des femmes à la contraception dans 4 pays africains
Authors: Bajos Nathalie , Teixeira Maria , Adjamagbo Agnès , Ferrand Michèle , Guillaume Agnès , Rossier Clémentine
Published: July 2013

Les analyses classiques sur les obstacles au recours à la contraception en Afrique se centrent sur la valeur sociale attribuée à une fécondité élevée, la peur des effets secondaires et l’accès à l’offre. Cet article caractérise l’ensemble des situations qui peuvent être à l’origine d’une grossesse non prévue et identifie les logiques sociales qui en favorisent la survenue. Deux cents entretiens semi-directifs ont été menés dans les capitales du Burkina Faso, du Ghana, du Maroc et du Sénégal en 2006-2007 dans le cadre de l’enquête Emergency Contraception in Africa (ECAF). Les analyses montrent que le respect simultané des normes procréatives et des normes en matière de sexualité, où domine un double standard qui prône l’interdit de la sexualité prémaritale pour les jeunes filles et le primat du plaisir sexuel masculin, favorise les rapports sexuels où la contraception n’est pas ou mal utilisée. Les facteurs sont relativement semblables dans les quatre pays ; toutefois le degré de rigidité des normes concernées diffère d’un pays à l’autre, notamment en matière de sexualité préconjugale. Finalement, la question d’une pratique efficace de la contraception va bien au-delà des « besoins non satisfaits », concept central dans la littérature qui se focalise sur la non-utilisation de la contraception.
Les théories migratoires contemporaines au prisme des textes fondateurs
Authors: Piché Victor
Published: July 2013

L’objectif de cet article est de rendre compte de l’évolution des théories migratoires contemporaines à partir de 20 textes fondateurs et regroupés pour la première fois dans un manuel (Piché V., 2013, Les théories de la migration , Ined). Ils sont à l’origine d’avancées significatives dans l’explication des migrations, leurs causes et leurs effets. On voit ainsi se développer des théories qui, privilégiant d’abord des approches micro-individuelles centrées sur l’analyse coût-bénéfice, vont peu à peu intégrer les facteurs macro-structurels. L’analyse des réseaux migratoires occupe une place centrale aussi bien dans les cadres explicatifs que dans les travaux à propos des effets de la migration sur le développement économique. L’approche en termes de rapports de genre dans les décisions migratoires complète cette analyse. Le cadre analytique proposé ici présente la migration comme un phénomène multifactoriel et multidimensionnel, qui intègre trois dimensions principales : l’origine et la destination ; les niveaux d’analyse micro, méso, macro et global ; les aspects économiques, sociaux et politiques. Plutôt que de s’opposer, chaque approche apporte un éclairage spécifique et toute explication des phénomènes migratoires doit en tenir compte, ainsi que l’élaboration et l’évaluation des politiques migratoires.
Open Business Intelligence for Better Decision-Making
Authors: Bernardino Jorge
Published: July 2013

Decision-making is a crucial, yet challenging task in enterprise management. In many organizations, decisions are still made based on experience and intuition rather than on facts and rigorous approaches. This is often due to lack of data, unknown relationships between data and goals, conflicting goals and poorly understood risks. The success of organizations depends on fast and well-founded decisions taken by relevant people in their specific area of responsibility. Business Intelligence (BI) is a collection of decision support technologies for enterprises aimed at enabling knowledge workers such as executives, managers, and analysts to make better and faster decisions. In this paper, the authors review the concept of BI as an open innovation strategy and address the importance of BI in revolutionizing knowledge towards economics and business sustainability. The main objective is to discuss why the concept of BI has become increasingly important and presents some of the top key applications and technologies to implement open BI in organizations, which would like to enter into the new market and operate on a global scale.
Collaborative Research (CR)
Authors: Porath Amiram , Rahman Hakikur , Ramos Isabel
Published: July 2013

As a conceptual study this paper takes open innovation as a tool that has been considered from the point of view of collaboration between the Industry and the Academy. However, if considered under the framework of the Resource Based Theory, specifically regarding Transaction Cost, it can be revealed that the two parties (Industry and Academy) are in fact compatible. Main focus of the discussion is on the Transaction Cost in the aspect of the management resources that are available for managing core activities and the cost incurred compared to other alternative management activities. It has been observed that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are faced with the ever increasing stress of intensive competition and limited by their resources (for example, managerial capabilities, financial, and others) in their abilities to deal with the transaction cost, and thus effectively turn to collaboration as a solution. The study synthesizes aspects of open innovation based on a theoretical model and a case study of the User Association of Advanced Technologies program in Israel, and emphasizes on collaboration as an open innovation activity within the Resource Based Theory. Thereafter, it concludes that collaborative research reduced the transaction cost in terms of utilizing open innovation in entrepreneurships, especially in case of SMEs, before providing a few research hints. The research piggybacks on the acquired knowledge on open innovation and thus strengthens further the concept of reduction of transaction cost through collaborative research based on the specific case study.
Critical Analysis of Growth Strategies for Telecom Stake Holders in Rural India
Authors: Singh N. P. , Kaushik Manisha
Published: July 2013

Telecommunications has provided an excellent mean to connect people, businesses, communities and countries across the globe. Quality of life has improved tremendously with the development of communications and related technologies. In spite of excellent growth of telecommunications services and reduction in tariff the benefits of telecommunication technologies have not reached to the poor segment of the population in the emerging and developing countries. India is no exception to it. There is wide gap between teledensity in urban and rural areas in India. The research paper discusses the efforts of government and service providers to fill this gap. The paper also presents the analysis of growth strategies of telecom stake holders. Based on the analysis, it is suggested that the gaps can be filled in by understanding and addressing technical and financial issues of the service providers in the context of rural areas. There is a need to create better policy instruments to provide incentives for service providers in rural areas and create markets for service providers that are financially viable. In this context paper analyzed existing status of rural telecommunication, role of information & communication technologies (ICTs) in the life of rural population, future needs of rural population, and strategies of making telecommunication services affordable in rural areas.
Staphylococcal Ecb Protein and Host Complement Regulator Factor H Enhance Functions of Each Other in Bacterial Immune Evasion
Authors: Amdahl Hanne , Jongerius Ilse , Meri Taru , Pasanen Tanja , Hyvärinen Satu , Haapasalo Karita , van Strijp Jos A. , Rooijakkers Suzan H. , Jokiranta T. Sakari
Published: July 2013

Staphylococcus aureus is a major human pathogen causing more than a tenth of all septicemia cases and often superficial and deep infections in various tissues. One of the immune evasion strategies of S. aureus is to secrete proteins that bind to the central complement opsonin C3b. One of these, extracellular complement binding protein (Ecb), is known to interfere directly with functions of C3b. Because C3b is also the target of the physiological plasma complement regulator, factor H (FH), we studied the effect of Ecb on the complement regulatory functions of FH. We show that Ecb enhances acquisition of FH from serum onto staphylococcal surfaces. Ecb and FH enhance mutual binding to C3b and also the function of each other in downregulating complement activation. Both Ecb and the C-terminal domains 19–20 of FH bind to the C3d part of C3b. We show that the mutual enhancing effect of Ecb and FH on binding to C3b depends on binding of the FH domain 19 to the C3d part of C3b next to the binding site of Ecb on C3d. Our results show that Ecb, FH, and C3b form a tripartite complex. Upon exposure of serum-sensitive Haemophilus influenzae to human serum, Ecb protected the bacteria, and this effect was enhanced by the addition of the C-terminal domains 19–20 of FH. This finding indicates that the tripartite complex formation could give additional protection to bacteria and that S. aureus is thereby able to use host FH and bacterial Ecb in a concerted action to eliminate C3b at the site of infection.
Sola Scriptura: Hindrance or catalyst for church unity?
Authors: Dreyer Yolanda , Zeindler Matthias , Case-Winters Anna , Sadananda Rathnakara , Weinrich Michael
Published: July 2013

In the Reformed tradition sola Scriptura remains a central tenet in the search for truth.Scripture bears witness to the variety of ways in which God has acted in history. It attests to God’s presence in the world and how God transcends the boundaries of human creations. The article focuses on how the Bible is interpreted differently by Christians from various traditions and even amongst Christians of the same tradition. Different hermeneutical approaches, confessional traditions and cultural contexts lead to different conclusions. Especially with regard to controversial ethical issues, different approaches to biblical reasoning lead to greatly differing results. The article reflects on whether sola Scriptura could provide a key to addressing both diversity and ethics more adequately.
The righteousness of Jesus and John the Baptist as depicted by Matthew
Authors: Viljoen Francois P.
Published: July 2013

Righteousness forms a significant feature in the first gospel. This article focuses on two of the seven occurrences of this term in Matthew, where it refers to Jesus and John. The argument in this article is that Matthew intentionally uses the word righteousness with reference to Jesus and John to shape the lifestyle of his community. Jesus is the central focus of this community’s identity. In solidarity with his people, Jesus fulfilled all righteousness. John is described as a figure that rightly recognised Jesus and also fulfilled all righteousness in his teaching and practice. The Matthean community should do the same. Though the word righteousness can be used in a soteriological sense, Matthew uses it in an ethical sense. By righteousness Matthew refers to the proper behavioural norms and attitudes for his community. He contrasts the righteousness of his community with that of the scribes and Pharisees as a distinguishing factor.Geregtigheid vorm ’n belangrike motief in die eerste evangelie. Hierdie artikel fokus op twee van die sewe voorkomste van hierdie term in Matteus, waar dit na Jesus en Johannes verwys. Die argument in hierdie artikel is dat Matteus doelbewus die woord geregtigheid in verband met Jesus en Johannes gebruik om die lewenstyl van sy gemeenskap te omskryf. Jesus vorm die sentrale fokus van hierdie gemeenskap se identiteit. Jesus het Homself volledig met sy volk geïdentifiseer en alle geregtigheid vervul. Johannes word beskryf as ’n persoon wat Jesus tereg herken het. In sy verkondiging en optrede het hy ook alle geregtigheid vervul. Die Matteus-gemeenskap moet dieselfde doen. Hoewel die woord geregtigheid in ’n soteriologiese sin gebruik kan word, gebruik Matteus dit in ’n etiese sin. Met geregtigheid verwys Matteus na die gepaste gedrag en gesindheid vir sy gemeenskap. As ’n onderskeidende faktor, kontrasteer hy die geregtigheid van sy gemeenskap met dié van die skrifgeleerdes en Fariseërs.
A DSGE Model for a SOE with Systematic Interest and Foreign Exchange Policies in Which Policymakers Exploit the Risk Premium for Stabilization Purposes
Authors: Escudé Guillermo J.
Published: July 2013

This paper builds a DSGE model for a small open economy (SOE) in which the central bank intervenes the domestic currency bond and FX markets using two policy rules: a Taylortype rule and a rule that determines the rate of nominal depreciation. The 2 ‘corner’ regimes, in which only one policy rule is used, are particular cases. The model is calibrated and implemented in Dynare for simple and optimal simple policy rules, and optimal policy under commitment. Numerical losses are obtained for ad-hoc loss functions for different sets of central bank preferences. The results show that the losses are lower when both policy rules are used. This is due to the central bank’s enhanced ability, when it uses the two policy rules, to influence private capital flows through the effects of its actions on the endogenous risk premium in the risk-adjusted uncovered interest parity equation.
Vlasov simulations of parallel potential drops
Authors: Gunell H. , De Keyser J. , Gamby E. , Mann I.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. An auroral flux tube is modelled from the magnetospheric equator to the ionosphere using Vlasov simulations. Starting from an initial state, the evolution of the plasma on the flux tube is followed in time. It is found that when applying a voltage between the ends of the flux tube, about two thirds of the potential drop is concentrated in a thin double layer at approximately one Earth radius altitude. The remaining part is situated in an extended region 1–2 Earth radii above the double layer. Waves on the ion timescale develop above the double layer, and they move toward higher altitude at approximately the ion acoustic speed. These waves are seen both in the electric field and as perturbations of the ion and electron distributions, indicative of an instability. Electrons of magnetospheric origin become trapped between the magnetic mirror and the double layer during its formation. At low altitude, waves on electron timescales appear and are seen to be non-uniformly distributed in space. The temporal evolution of the potential profile and the total voltage affect the double layer altitude, which decreases with an increasing field aligned potential drop. A current–voltage relationship is found by running several simulations with different voltages over the system, and it agrees with the Knight relation reasonably well.
Indication for allogeneic stem cell transplantation in Glanzmann’s thrombasthenia
Authors: Sauer K. , Winkler B. , Eyrich M. , Schlegel P. G. , Wiegering V.
Published: July 2013

Glanzmann’s thrombasthenia (GT) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by a lack of thrombocyte aggregation due to the absence of thrombocyte glycoproteins IIb and αIIbβ3. The role of haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in GT remains controversial. However, HSCT offers the only curative approach for patients with a severe clinical phenotype.

In this review, we will discuss the limitation of current status evidence and the specific risk of GT, in particular the alloimmunization and refractoriness to thrombocyte infusions. 19 successful HSCT in 18 GT type I patients have been reported. Mean age at transplantation was 5 years. All patients are still alive. The majority received sibling bone marrow transplant with busulfan and cyclophosphamid conditioning. GvHD incidence was within the normal range, but 10 patients showed alloimmunization of thrombocytes. Median follow up is 25 months.
Spatial Distribution of Calibrated WOFOST Parameters and Their Influence on the Performances of a Regional Yield orecasting System
Authors: Djaby Bakary , Wit Allard De , Kouadio Louis , Jarroudi Moussa El , Tychon Bernard
Published: July 2013

We investigate in this study (i) a redefinition of crop variety zonations at a spatial scale of 10x10 km, and (ii) the influence of recalibrated crop parameters on regional yield forecasting of winter wheat and grain maize in western Europe. The baseline zonation and initial crop parameter set was derived from the operational European crop growth monitoring system (CGMS) which involves the agrometeorological model WOFOST. Air temperature data from 325 weather stations over the 1992-2007 period were used to define new zonations in a 300 x 300 km test site. Two parameters which influenced mostly the phenological development stages (i.e. TSUM1 and TSUM2, the effective air temperature sums from emergence to anthesis, and from anthesis to maturity, respectively) were chosen and calibrated. The CGMS was finally run based on these new recalibrated parameters and simulated crop status indicators were compared with official statistics over the 2000-2007 period. Our results showed that the days of anthesis and maturity were simulated with coefficients of determination (R2) ranging from 0.22 to 0.87 for both crops over the study site. A qualitative assessment of maximum leaf area index and harvest index also revealed a more consistent spatial pattern than the initial zonation in the simulation results. Finally, recalibrated TSUM1 and TSUM2 led to improved relationships between official yield and simulated crop indicators (significant R2 in 17 out of 28 and in 14 out of 59 NUTS3 regions with respect to the best predictor for grain maize and winter wheat, respectively).
Uso da simulação computacional com o mapeamento do fluxo de valor para auxiliar na tomada de decisão
Authors: Oliveira Ricardo Becker Mendes de , Corrêa Valesca Alves , Nunes Luiz Eduardo Nicolini do Patrocínio
Published: July 2013

Neste trabalho, objetiva-se propor a utilização da metodologia de Mapeamento do Fluxo de Valor (MFV) de modo integrado a um modelo de simulação computacional, construído com o software Arena. O objeto de estudo está baseado em um sistema produtivo no qual surgiu a necessidade de realizar modificações a fim de acomodar novos produtos e, para isso, devem-se detectar os possíveis gargalos e visualizar os impactos gerados pelas futuras mudanças. Como resultados, será apresentado o modelo de simulação computacional qualificado para representar o sistema atual e o futuro em conjunto com os resultados do Mapeamento do Fluxo de Valor para identificar as atividades que agregam ou não valor ao processo. Há a inclusão de eventos kaizen para que no mapa futuro os desperdícios sejam encontrados de forma mais prática e confiável, auxiliando na tomada de decisão.
Demand chain management: a previsão estatística como principal técnica no processo de gerenciamento da demanda
Authors: Barbosa Cesar Mangabeira , Chaves Carlos Alberto
Published: July 2013

Este artigo é resultado de uma pesquisa survey sobre o gerenciamento da demanda, sendo este entendido como o processo estruturado de planejar, priorizar, influenciar e comunicar a demanda. O objetivo neste trabalho é identificar a principal técnica utilizada pelas empresas no gerenciamento da demanda, justificado pela necessidade de melhorar o processo de previsões nessas empresas. A metodologia neste estudo foi abordagem quali-quantitativa, nível de investigação aplicado e foco exploratório. Os dados foram coletados na internet entre os dias 23 de janeiro de 2012 e 2 de abril de 2012, por meio de um questionário que foi respondido, nesse intervalo, por 50 representantes de empresas. Uma descoberta importante foi que as empresas mantêm alta prioridade para previsão estatística, e baixa, para técnicas como detecção automática de outlier e análise de canibalização.