Terroir dairy : Using mobile milking robots for special quality dairy products based on site specific grazing

Poster (in press)

An option for combining grazing and automatic milking is Infield Automatic Milking, with more or less mobilie infield automatic milking systems (IAMS) which have been practiced sin 2008 in several ... [more ▼]

An option for combining grazing and automatic milking is Infield Automatic Milking, with more or less mobilie infield automatic milking systems (IAMS) which have been practiced sin 2008 in several European countries. This emerging technology can be used to harvest milk from specific areas, giving specialized dairies the possibility to market concept milk, cheese or butter. [less ▲]

Reconstructing historical atmospheric mercury deposition in Western Europe: The case study of the ombrotrophic Misten peat bog (Belgium)

Poster (2013, July 11)

Characterization of new bacterial glycoside hydrolases isolated from agricultural soils using a functional metagenomic approach

Poster (2013, June 10)

Microorganisms play key roles in soil ecosystem functioning, notably through their ability to degrade plant cell wall polymers. For this, bacteria and fungi produce various enzymes such as cellulases ... [more ▼]

Microorganisms play key roles in soil ecosystem functioning, notably through their ability to degrade plant cell wall polymers. For this, bacteria and fungi produce various enzymes such as cellulases, xylanases, glucosidases, esterases or laccases. Finding new enzymes hydrolyzing cellulose, hemicellulose or lignin is not only interesting for a better understanding of the roles of the soil microflora still largely unknown but these enzymes are also useful for various biotechnological applications such as the production of renewable energy from lignocellulosic material. So here, we used a functional metagenomic approach to isolate new bacterial β-glucosidases, which were then biochemically characterized. The new enzymes were identified by functional analysis of agricultural-soil metagenomic libraries hosted in Escherichia coli and screened on medium containing esculin. After sequence analysis and preliminary estimation of the activity of the new β-glucosidases using p-nitrophenol derivatives on intact bacterial cells, the coding sequences of three of them were cloned into a bacterial expression vector so as to overproduce and purify them by affinity chromatography. The chosen enzymes show only 52-64% sequence identity to known family 3 (GH3) or 1 (GH1) glycoside hydrolases of different phyla (Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria and Proteobacteria). Analysis of the E. coli cells expressing each of them revealed that both GH1 proteins (ASEsc9 and ASEsc10) are thermophilic enzymes more active at mildly acidic to neutral pH while the GH3 enzyme (ASEsc6) is an alkaline, mesophilic, β-glucosidase also displaying xylosidase activity. Their coding sequences have been cloned in fusion with a carboxy-terminal His-tag and placed under the control of the IPTG-inducible promoter of the pET-30b vector. The proteins will be overproduced and purified for further characterization. [less ▲]

Réaction transfusionnelle hémolytique retardée (RTHR) suite à une transfusion massive de concentrés érythrocytaires ABO-incompatibles

Poster (2013, June)

Study of interface trap density in a GeSn MOS structure by numerical simulation of the electrical characteristics

Poster (2013, June)

Biomass hydrolyzing enzymes identified by functional screening of a metagenomic library from algal biofilms.

Poster (2013, June)

Biomass hydrolyzing enzymes are increasingly searched for the production of biofuels and renewable chemical compounds using biomass. Microorganisms living on algaes are an interesting reservoir of biomass ... [more ▼]

Biomass hydrolyzing enzymes are increasingly searched for the production of biofuels and renewable chemical compounds using biomass. Microorganisms living on algaes are an interesting reservoir of biomass hydrolyzing enzymes, as they are in constant interaction with algal biomass. Therefore, we are interested in looking for some of those enzymes synthesized by the microflora living on the surface of the brown algae Ascophyllum nodosum. Algae samples were collected in the winter 2012 and a microbial DNA extraction method was developed. The whole extracted microbial genomes of the microorganisms living on the algae were restricted, inserted in a cloning vector and ligated products were used for transformation of cultivable Escherichia coli host cells. This metagenomic library was then screened for diverse enzymatic activities (lipolytic enzymes, cellulases, beta-glucosidases, alpha-amylases, arabinanases, xylanases and proteases) on agar plates with specific substrates. Five putative lipolytic enzymes, one cellulase and one beta-glucosidase were identified. Sequence analysis revealed low (<50%) sequence identities with known enzymes sequences, meaning new enzymes from unknown genomes have been discovered. To our knowledge this is the first functional screening that was realized with a metagenomic library from algal biofilms and this is the first cellulase identified by marine metagenomics. A second library has been constructed from algae sample from summer 2012 and is currently being screened. New enzymatic tests are being developed for the identification of enzymes degrading specific algal polysaccharides like agarases, carrageenases, alginate lyases, laminarinases,… Those very specific enzymes aren’t well known yet, and our metagenomic approach will probably help us to identify new families and structures of those algal biomass hydrolyzing enzymes. [less ▲]

The most non-classical symmetric states of an N-qubit system

Poster (2013, May 23)

Dust historical record in ombrotrophic peat: The case study of a NW European bog

Poster (2013, May 16)

Ombrotrophic peatlands are unique environmental archives of natural and anthropogenic atmospheric dust deposition because their surface layers are exclusively fed by atmospheric inputs. Lead (Pb) isotopes ... [more ▼]

Ombrotrophic peatlands are unique environmental archives of natural and anthropogenic atmospheric dust deposition because their surface layers are exclusively fed by atmospheric inputs. Lead (Pb) isotopes have been often used to evidence any anthropogenic influence in peat, but they only record trace metal pollution. Another radiogenic isotope, the Neodymium (Nd), could be also use to discriminate the sources of dust in peat bogs. Dust fluxes were investigated over the last 2500 years in the Misten peat bog in Eastern Belgium. Our aims were to use Nd isotope signature to decipher between local and distal dust supplies, the Pb isotopes to trace the antropogenic influences. To address these aims we analyzed REE and lithogenic element analyses, as well as the Nd and Pb isotopes, using HR-ICP-MS and MC-ICP-MS, respectively in peat layers dated by 210Pb and 14C. Changes in REE concentration variations in peat samples are correlated with Ti, Al, and Zr that are lithogenic conservative elements, suggesting that REE are immobile in the studied peat bogs and can be used as tracers of dust deposition. Dust fluxes show pronounced increase at BC300, AD600, 1000AD, 1200AD and from 1700AD, recording either influence of human activities (regional erosion due to forest clearing and soil cultivation activities) or local and regional climate changes. Lead enrichments reveal strong human impact over the last 300 years. Lead isotope signatures are consistent with local and regional contamination by coal combustion and smelting activities. Neodymium isotopes allow to identify three periods characterised by dominant-distal sources (at 320AD, 1000 AD and 1700AD). Those periods are consistent with local wetter intervals as indicated by lower humification degree. Local erosion prevails durier drier (higher humification) intervals (-100AD, 600AD). On a global scale more distal supplies are driven during colder periods, in particular Oort and Maunder minima, confirming the hypothesis that cold climate conditions favor distal supplies. Combining geochemical elementary content and isotope data in ombrotrophic peat allows to decipher between dust flux changes related to human and climate forcing. [less ▲]

Evaluation of gross primary production, community respiration, and net community production in various benthic communities (Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadow, Posidonia oceanica litter, epilithic macro-algae) in the Bay of Revellata (Corsica) using optodes

Poster (2013, May 07)

Overview of the geophysical data derived from long-term FTIR monitoring activities at the Jungfraujoch NDACC site (46.5ºN) and the PYGCHEM project

Poster (2013, May 07)

We present an overview of the geophysical data deduced from long-term monitoring activities conducted at the Jungfraujoch station by the University of Liège. Typical results and trend investigations are ... [more ▼]

We present an overview of the geophysical data deduced from long-term monitoring activities conducted at the Jungfraujoch station by the University of Liège. Typical results and trend investigations are presented for hydrogen chloride (HCl) and carbonyl sulfide (OCS). We further display and briefly describe time series for new target gases, namely methanol (CH3OH) and HCFC-142b. We also show some preliminary results for ammonia (NH3) and peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN). Finally, we present the PyGChem project, a Python interface to the GEOS-Chem model currently under development at ULg. [less ▲]

Luminescence dating of the Palaeolithic site of Kulbulak (Uzbekistan) using IR50 and pIRIR290 signals from K-feldspar

Poster (2013, May)

Fluorine-18 labeling of biocompatible nanoparticles for PET imaging

Poster (2013, May)

Selection of a spatial hypothesis in geographic profiling using graph theory

Poster (2013, May)

Geographic profiling is based on the spatial hypothesis of a distance decay effect around the offender’s anchor point and can be very useful for delineating prior search areas for individual ... [more ▼]

Geographic profiling is based on the spatial hypothesis of a distance decay effect around the offender’s anchor point and can be very useful for delineating prior search areas for individual investigations such as DNA testing. However, this spatial hypothesis fails to model a significant part of Belgian serial sexual offenders. In previous study, a complementary hypothesis, the minimisation of the variance (MOV) for the distances between the offender’s anchor point and the crime site, exploiting recent literature observation, is proposed to model unexplained behaviours. A systematic comparison of the distance decay and the MOV hypotheses show that their overall capacities to provide an effective geoprofile are similar, but their performances may differ, depending on the geometric pattern of crimes. Here, we use graph theory to describe the favourable patterns for the MOV, in order to select which spatial hypothesis is best suited for a new investigation. While star graphs represent patterns for which both hypotheses could be validated, wheels with preferred directions are only explained by the MOV hypothesis. Real patterns on the road network are a-posteriori evaluated thanks to the generation of the shortest path between the best solution of the MOV and all the crime locations thanks to the Dijkstra algorithm. [less ▲]

The contribution of Multidimensional IRT for modeling applicants performance on a SJT.

Poster (2013, May)

Situational judgment tests (SJTs) are testing methods often used in Personnel Selection to appraise different constructs (Whetzel & McDaniel, 2009). In the framework of an overall career progression ... [more ▼]

Situational judgment tests (SJTs) are testing methods often used in Personnel Selection to appraise different constructs (Whetzel & McDaniel, 2009). In the framework of an overall career progression program in a Public Administration, SJTs were developed to assess several competencies relevant to both task (e.g. planning, managing, etc.) and contextual performance (e.g. helping behaviour, organizational loyalty, etc.). Each competency is a combination of KSAOs needed to perform efficiently in a specific context (Campion & al., 2012; Le Boterf 2008). Given the lack of internal consistency of SJT and the dichotomous nature of the data, we decide to use Multidimensional Item Response Theory (MIRT) model to examine the issue of construct validity. Based on Hartig & Höhler (2009), we use MIRT compensatory model to estimate the latent covariance structures of the SJT. Different model are tested and compared depending on the number of dimension involved, the nature of the items and latent variables relation (between or within-item multidimensionality) and the number of model parameter (one or two parameter model). The results and findings lead us to discuss some implications (gaining accuracy, modeling performance in complex task, etc.) and limitations (dealing with complex loading structure, etc.) of using IRT, over and above classical test theory, in the specific case of SJTs applicants performance. The originality of this communication also lies in the way we addressed SJTs reliability and construct validity issues with a measurement based model that differs from the one usually used in the field. [less ▲]

Sustainable Product Service Systems: consumer usage intentions and impact on well-being

Poster (2013, April 30)

Comparison of Real-Time Aspergillus PCR with Platelia™AspergillusEIA in broncho-alveolar lavage fluids for the diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis in neutropenic and non-neutropenic patients

Poster (2013, April 27)

Objectives. Because of low sensitivity of fungal cultures and lack of standardization of Aspergillus PCR, laboratory diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis still relies on galactomannan (GM) detection in ... [more ▼]

Objectives. Because of low sensitivity of fungal cultures and lack of standardization of Aspergillus PCR, laboratory diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis still relies on galactomannan (GM) detection in broncho-alveolar lavage (BAL) fluids and serum. The aim of this study was double: first, to assess the place of a 18S rRNA Aspergillus real-time PCR test performed in BAL fluid for the diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis (IA) in neutro- and non-neutropenic patients in comparison with GM detection; secondly, to evaluate the use of three different GM cut-off values. Materials and methods. A total of 111 neutropenic and non-neutropenic patients hospitalized at the University hospital of Liège from March to October 2012 with suspicion of IA were included in the study. A total of 138 broncho-alveolar lavage fluids were evaluated by three laboratory diagnostic methods: 1/ culture on Sabouraud agar slants with antibiotics (bioMérieux, France) incubated at 28°C for 28 days; 2/ GM detection (Platelia ™Aspergillus EIA, Biorad) using GM index cut-off values at 0.5, 0.8 and 1, performed three times a week; 3/ a real-time Aspergillus PCR assay performed daily and targeting the 18S rRNA genes by using an in-house method. Clinical, radiological and microbiological data were reviewed for classification of patients. Results. Nine patients developed probable or possible IA. The sensitivity/specificity/positive (VPP) and negative (NPV) predictive values (%) for culture, PCR, and GM using 0,5 as cut-off value were respectively 41/100/100/94, 58/97/70/96, and 91/83/34/99. The use of 0,8 and 1 as GM index cut-off values increased the specificity to 89 and 92% respectively, and the VPP to 44 and 54%. PCR had a better turn-around time and allowed the detection of Aspergillus colonisation. Conclusion: GM detection in BAL fluids using a cut-off value of 1 was the most efficient laboratory test for the diagnosis of IA in neutropenic and non-neutropenic patients. Despite a lower sensitivity, PCR had a better VPP, and allowed the detection of culture-negative Aspergillus colonisations. A shorter turnaround time (TAT) due to daily practice of PCR tests may reduce the time-to-treatment up to 24 hours. [less ▲]

Time variyng groundwater flux measurement using a single well tracer technique

Poster (2013, April 24)

Contaminant mass discharge measurements are often performed at given times or integrated over a certain period of time, using active or passive sampling techniques. One problem arising is that such ... [more ▼]

Contaminant mass discharge measurements are often performed at given times or integrated over a certain period of time, using active or passive sampling techniques. One problem arising is that such measurements may not be representative of the temporal dynamics of the mass discharge variations. These variations can be caused by fluctuations in contaminant concentrations or, more frequently, by changes in the groundwater fluxes. Pollutant mass fluxes are typically estimated through a combination of solute concentrations and groundwater fluxes measured across a control plane made of several multi-level wells. Accurate measurements of local transient Darcy fluxes have been recognized as the weakest points in most of the developed techniques for groundwater contaminant mass flux measurements. The main objective here is to extend the FVPDM technique for temporal monitoring of groundwater fluxes and to demonstrate its ability to be used in combination with passive sampling devices for measurement of contaminant mass fluxes in groundwater. The Finite Volume Point Dilution Method (FVPDM) is a single well tracer technique for the measurement of local groundwater fluxes based on the continuous injection of tracer at very low injection rate (Brouyère et al. 2008). These developments are based on the application of the adapted technique on a case study in a fractured granitic aquifer in Ploemeur (France). This application investigates transient groundwater fluxes that are controlled by pumping in a well nearby the tested piezometers. Long monitoring time series have been recorded under these controlled conditions of transient groundwater flow. Results show the high sensivity of the FVPDM technique to small variations in groundwater flow velocities and its aptitude for long term monitoring of groundwater fluxes. The comparison between the results of FVPDM and classical point dilution tests performed in same conditions shows close correlation. Interpretation of FVPDM tests in transient conditions have been developed together with an evaluation of the uncertainties that can happen if the frequency of the groundwater flow variations is high. The tests carried on the Ploemeur site also illustrate the first ever application of the FVPDM technique between a double-packer system used for the investigation of a defined layer of an aquifer. This innovative application of the FVPDM using packers opens concrete perspectives for investigation of vertical heterogeneities of groundwater fluxes across a well. [less ▲]

Use of Life Cycle Assessment to determine the environmental impact of thermochemical conversion routes of lignocellulosic biomass: The gasification step

Poster (2013, April 22)

Molecular analysis of root medium impact on Arabidopsis thaliana development

Poster (2013, April 18)

Hydroponics and soil are the most common media used for plant growth. Hydroponics has the main advantage of providing easy access to the root system and is therefore commonly used for gene expression ... [more ▼]

Hydroponics and soil are the most common media used for plant growth. Hydroponics has the main advantage of providing easy access to the root system and is therefore commonly used for gene expression analyses in molecular studies of the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. However, the impact of root substrate on plant growth remains poorly documented. Here we show that hydroponics accelerates both shoot growth and developmental phases as compared with culture on soil. In order to identify molecular changes in the roots that could account for these medium effects, a transcriptomic comparison was performed by microarray analysis. This experiment revealed that more than 20% of the genes were differentially expressed in hydroponics vs soil. Among them, the flowering time gene FLOWERING LOCUS C and two clades of microRNA targeted genes. To further assess the role of these genes in roots, artificial microRNAs were designed for root specific expression in transgenic Arabidopsis plants. [less ▲]

Towards identification of active root-secreted proteases of Arabidopsis thaliana.

Poster (2013, April 18)

Besides traditional production systems, such as bacteria, yeasts and mammal cells, plants can now be used to produce eukaryotic recombinant proteins. Their advantages as hosts for proteins production ... [more ▼]

Besides traditional production systems, such as bacteria, yeasts and mammal cells, plants can now be used to produce eukaryotic recombinant proteins. Their advantages as hosts for proteins production include correct post-translational modifications, low cost of maintenance and no risk of contamination by human pathogens. Targeting heterologous proteins to the extracellular space is required for the correct folding of complex proteins and makes harvesting and purification easier. However, the quantity and the quality of recombinant proteins have been proved to be reduced by the action of endogenous co-secreted proteases. In this study, we characterized root-secreted proteases in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, at the activity and expression levels. Their activity was analyzed by in vitro degradation of a target protein (Bovine Serum Albumine, BSA) in a range of pH and in the presence of several proteases inhibitors. Serine proteases were identified as the major protease class involved in the degradation of BSA under all tested conditions. As a first step towards the identification of the key players, the expression level of selected members of this class was analyzed by quantitative RT-PCR in roots and leaves. [less ▲]

MOLECULAR DYNAMICS STUDY OF A DNA OLIGONUCLEOTIDE AND ITS COMPLEXES WITH SPECIFIC BINDERS UNDER MECHANICAL STRESS

Poster (2013, April 18)

Study of a solar concentrator for space based on a diffractive/refractive optical combination

Poster (2013, April 16)

This paper presents a new design of a planar solar concentrator for space applications focusing on two spatially separated PV cells, allowing independent control of output power of each cell. It has the ... [more ▼]

This paper presents a new design of a planar solar concentrator for space applications focusing on two spatially separated PV cells, allowing independent control of output power of each cell. It has the advantages of both spectral splitting and solar concentration by the combination of a blaze transmission diffraction grating and a flat cylindrical Fresnel lens. An optical optimization has been realized and two variations of configuration have been developed to improve tracking tolerance: first, a design completed by secondary reflective concentrators and second, a symmetrical configuration composed of two lenses. First numerical results are presented, highlighting the possibility to design a concentrator at about 10×, with an electrical output power about 290W/m² lens and less than 10% losses for tracking errors lower than ±0.9°. [less ▲]

Evolution of methanol (CH3OH) above the Jungfraujoch station (46.5°N) : Variability, seasonal modulation and long-term trend.

Poster (2013, April 09)

Methanol (CH3OH) is the second most abundant organic compound in the Earth’s atmosphere with concentrations close to a few ppbv, after methane, despite a short lifetime of a few days (Jacob et al., 2005 ... [more ▼]

Methanol (CH3OH) is the second most abundant organic compound in the Earth’s atmosphere with concentrations close to a few ppbv, after methane, despite a short lifetime of a few days (Jacob et al., 2005). Natural sources of CH3OH include plant growth, oceans, decomposition of plant matter, oxidation of methane and other VOCs,. . . while anthropogenic sources are from vehicles, industry,. . . biomass burning completes the emission budget. The main sink is the oxidation by hydroxyl radical, leading to the formation of carbon monoxide (CO) and formaldehyde (H2CO). The retrieval of methanol is very challenging due to the presence of strong absorption of ozone and its isotopologues in addition to water vapour and carbon dioxide in the region of the selected strong nu8 band of CH3OH. First retrievals from satellite observations using the Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment infrared Fourier Transform Spectrometer (ACE-FTS) on board the SCISAT satellite have been performed by Dufour et al. (2007 and references therein) using a spectral interval going from 995.5 to 1008.3 cm-1. In 2009, first retrievals from a ground-based FTS, using spectra recorded at Kitt Peak (31.9°N) and a window going from 992 to 999 cm-1 have been reported by Rinsland et al. (2009), followed by Vigouroux et al. (2012 and references therein) who used yet another spectral interval going from 1029 to 1037cm-1. From those former retrieval strategies and also considering the Mahieu et al. (2012) contribution, we redefined our spectral intervals to maximize the information content. Indeed, our first window, starting from 992 to 1008.3 cm-1, is issued from the merge of Rinsland et al. and Dufour et al. windows while our second, going from 1029 to 1037 cm-1, is the one used by Vigouroux et al.With this new combination of windows, we were able to enlarge the range of zenith angles providing robust results while maintaining good correlation between our two windows; this also resulted in an improvement of the fitting residuals and of the information content. We used the 2008 HITRAN compilation (Rothman et al., 2009) for spectroscopic parameters. However, systematic residuals still remain in the 1033 cm-1 region which are attributed to unsatisfactory line parameters for methanol. New cross sections recorded at the Molecular Spectroscopy Facility of the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (Harrison et al. 2012) and calibrated in intensity by using the reference spectra from the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) IR database will be tested as soon as converted into pseudolines. In this work, we will present the first long-term time series of methanol total columns, resulting from the implementation of our new retrieval strategy. All retrievals have been performed with the SFIT2 algorithm (v 3.91) (Rinsland et al., 1998) using a series of about 7 000 spectra recorded between 1995 and 2012, with zenith angles between 60 and 85°. These solar absorption observations have been recorded with a high-resolution FTIR Bruker 120HR instrument, at the high altitude station of the Jungfraujoch (46.5°N, 8°E, 3580 m asl), within the framework of the Network for the Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change (NDACC, visit http://www.ndacc.org). [less ▲]

TEMPORAL VARIABILITY OF N2O FLUXES FROM A FERTILIZED GRASSLAND: PRELIMINARY RESULTS FROM DYNAMIC CLOSED CHAMBERS

Poster (2013, April 09)

This work presents preliminary results of nitrous oxide (N2O) fluxes measured by dynamic closed chambers from a fertilized grassland grazed by the Belgian Blue breed of cattle. It is part of a project ... [more ▼]

This work presents preliminary results of nitrous oxide (N2O) fluxes measured by dynamic closed chambers from a fertilized grassland grazed by the Belgian Blue breed of cattle. It is part of a project funded by the public service of Wallonia (SPW-DGARNE), whose objectives are to make a carbon/CO2 balance of the grassland (Jérôme et al., 2013) and to quantify CH4 (Dumortier et al., 2013) and N2O fluxes. The site is located in Dorinne (Dorinne Terrestrial Observatory), Belgium (50° 18’ 44” N; 4° 58’ 07” E; 248 m al.). It is a permanent grassland of ca. 4.2 ha with a moderate slope of 1 to 2 %. Mineral fertilisation took place in March and May 2012. Two cylindrical chambers of 19,2 cm diameter and 11,5 cm height were placed inside a protected area around a micrometeorological station. An infrared gas analyser (Thermofischer 46i) was used in order to measure the N2O concentrations inside of the chambers, closed by automatically controlled lids and ventilated by a constant air flow of 1liter/min. These devices were completed by adjacent soil humidity and temperature sensors. The first measurement campaign took place during June and July 2012. The chambers were installed in the field and N2O fluxes were followed without manipulation. N2O fluxes were characterised by a background emission (between 2 and 10 ngN.m2s􀀀1) on which intense but time limited peaks (between 50 and 300 ngN.m2s􀀀1) superimposed. Peaks were found to be mainly linked to fertilisation and driven by precipitation. Background fluxes were found to correlate positively with soil temperature. Secondly, a manipulation experiment took place in November 2012: two different fertilizer treatments were applied to the chambers. Doses of respectively 100 and 200 kg N/ha of ammonium nitrate were sprayed in the chambers (equivalent to a 8mmprecipitation). N2O fluxes peaked shortly after fertiliser application (respectively 300 and 550 ngN.m2s􀀀1), as well as after a posterior rain event (respectively 800 and 1500 ngN.m2s􀀀1). The peak dynamics suggests a complex interaction between soil humidity and nitrogen availability, which is under study. Dumortier et al., Geophysical Research Abstracts, Vol. 15, EGU2013-2083-1, 2013 Jérôme et al., Geophysical Research Abstracts Vol. 15, EGU2013-6989, 2013 [less ▲]

Impact of grazing on carbon balance of an intensively grazed grassland in Belgium

Poster (2013, April 09)

This work analyzes the impact of grazing on the carbon balance of a grassland grazed by the Belgian Blue breed of cattle. The research was run at the Dorinne terrestrial observatory (DTO). The ... [more ▼]

This work analyzes the impact of grazing on the carbon balance of a grassland grazed by the Belgian Blue breed of cattle. The research was run at the Dorinne terrestrial observatory (DTO). The experimental site is a permanent grassland of ca. 4.2 ha located in the Belgian Condroz (50° 18’ 44’’ N; 4° 58’ 07’’ E; 248 m asl.). Other studies are conducted at the DTO including measurements of methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide fluxes (Dumortier et al., Geophysical Research Abstracts, Vol. 15, EGU2013-2083-1, 2013; Beekkerk van Ruth et al., Geophysical Research Abstracts, Vol. 15, EGU2013-3211, 2013, respectively). Grassland carbon budget (Net Biome Productivity, NBP) was calculated from Net Ecosystem Exchange (NEE) measured by eddy covariance by taking imports and exports of organic C and losses of carbon as CH4 into account (Soussana et al., 2010). After 2 years of measurements (May 2010 - May 2012), the grassland behaved on average as a CO2 source (NEE = 73 ±31 g C m-2 y-1). After inclusion of all the C inputs and outputs the site was closed to equilibrium (NBP = 23 ±34 g C m-2 y-1). To analyze the impact of grazing on CO2 fluxes, we studied the temporal evolution of gross maximal photosynthetic capacity GPPmax and dark respiration Rd (deduced from the response of daytime fluxes to radiation over 5-day windows). We calculated GPPmax and Rd variation between the end and the beginning of grazing or non-grazing periods (∆GPPmax and ∆Rd, respectively). We observed a significant decrease of GPPmax during grazing periods and measured a ∆GPPmax dependence on the average stocking rate. This allows us to quantify the assimilation reduction due to grass consumption by cattle. On the contrary, no Rd decrease was observed during grazing periods. Moreover, we found that cumulated monthly NEE increased significantly with the average stocking rate. In addition, a confinement experiment was carried out in order to analyze livestock contribution to Total Ecosystem Respiration. Each experiment extended over two days: the first day, cattle was confined in the footprint of the eddy covariance set-up (1.76 ha, 27 LU ha-1) and the second day, it was removed from it. We compared filtered half-hourly data made at 24h intervals, in the presence or absence of cattle, considering that environmental conditions were equivalent (air temperature, wind speed, radiation and wind direction). Results showed that CO2 fluxes were significantly higher when cattle were on the plot. Livestock contribution estimation to CO2 fluxes was on average 6.6 µmol m-2 s-1. [less ▲]

High-resolution of trace elements (Mg, U, Sr, Ba and Zn) in speleothems as Holocene palaeoclimatic proxies: Père Noël cave, Belgium

Poster (2013, April 08)

Two year study of CO2, CH4 and N2O dynamics and fluxes in four rivers in Belgium (Meuse, Ourthe, Geer and Blanc Gravier)

Poster (2013, April 07)

From a source to a sink: the role of biological activities on atmospheric CO2 exchange along the river-ocean continuum

Poster (2013, April 07)

The dimethylsulphide propionate (DMSP) content in microalgae and its influence on DMS emission: Experimental and modelling study in the Southern North Sea

Poster (2013, April 07)

Variability of North Sea pH and CO2 pumping in response to North Atlantic Oscillation forcing

Poster (2013, April 07)

Research on durable junction of multimaterials

Poster (2013, April 04)

This collective project aimed to assess the potential of adhesive bonding in various applications in the field of building construction. This evaluation takes into account technical, economical and ... [more ▼]

This collective project aimed to assess the potential of adhesive bonding in various applications in the field of building construction. This evaluation takes into account technical, economical and ecological aspects and provides a methodology that can be easily transferred to other applications. [less ▲]

Analytical evaluation of virgin olive oils produced from three varieties Koroneiki , Arbequina and Arbosana grown in east of Morocco

Poster (2013, April)

Extensions of Superalgebras of Krichever-Novikov type

Poster (2013, April)

Stables isotopes in the fin whale Balaenoptera physalus from the Mediterranean Sea: implications for management and conservation

Poster (2013, April)

The fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) is the commonest large whale species in the Mediterranean Sea, found mostly over deep, offshore waters of the western and central portion of the region. This whale is ... [more ▼]

The fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) is the commonest large whale species in the Mediterranean Sea, found mostly over deep, offshore waters of the western and central portion of the region. This whale is known to feed mainly on krill in contrast to its Atlantic counterpart, displaying a more diversified diet. δ13C and δ15N values were analysed by IR-MS (Isoprime 100) coupled to an N-C-S elemental analyser (Vario MICRO Cube, Elementar) in 113 skin biopsies from Mediterranean fin whales sampled in 2010 and 2011 during WWF campaign at sea. A lipid normalization equation was applied (adapted from Post al. 2007) because the measured C:N ratio was > 3.5. Normalized δ13C and δ15N values ranged from -20.3 to -17.3 ‰ and from 5.9 to 8.9 ‰, respectively. These values are in good agreement with those collected previously on baleen plates from Mediterranean fin whales (Bentaleb et al., 2011). A mean enrichment of 3.4 ‰ was observed between δ15N values measured in fin whale skin biopsies and Mediterranean krill (Meganyctiphanes norvegica) confirming the importance of the krill as a major food source. The narrow width of the isotopic niche of the Mediterranean fin whale (evaluated by SIBER Stable Isotope Bayesian Ellipses) compared to the Atlantic fin whale (Ryan et al. 2012) raises many concerns in the context of global changes and long-term consequences. One could expect that species displaying narrow niches would be more susceptible to ecosystem fragmentation and other anthropogenic impacts. [less ▲]

Glioblastoma metastases:case report and literature review

Poster (2013, March 30)

Spinal paraganglioma: case report and review of the literature.

Poster (2013, March 30)

Lower intracellular concentration of cryoprotectants in mouse zygotes after vitrification than after slow freezing

Poster (2013, March 22)

Multifractality of quantum wave functions

Poster (2013, March 19)

We study the multifractality of individual wave packets in a periodically kicked system through a combination of numerical and analytical works. We consider a version of the mathematical Ruijsenaars ... [more ▼]

We study the multifractality of individual wave packets in a periodically kicked system through a combination of numerical and analytical works. We consider a version of the mathematical Ruijsenaars-Schneider model and reinterpreted it physically in order to describe the spreading with time of quantum wave packets in a system where multifractality can be tuned by varying a parameter [1]. We compare different methods to measure the multifractality of wave packets and identify the best one. We find the multifractality to decrease with time until it reaches an asymptotic limit, which is different from the multifractality of eigenvectors but related to it, as is the rate of the decrease. Our results could guide the study of experimental situations where multifractality is present in quantum systems. [less ▲]

Highly non-classical symmetric states of an N-qubit system

Poster (2013, March 19)

Self-Defining Memories and Identity in Schizophrenia: Preliminary Results.

Poster (2013, March 18)

The reciprocal relationship between autobiographical memory (AM) and identity is well known. In schizophrenia, there is evidence that both identity and AM are impaired. Indeed, identity has been described ... [more ▼]

The reciprocal relationship between autobiographical memory (AM) and identity is well known. In schizophrenia, there is evidence that both identity and AM are impaired. Indeed, identity has been described as fragmented, instable or still discontinuous in these patients (Boulanger et al., submitted; deBonis et al., 1995; Nieznanski, 2004). Further, schizophrenia patients’ (SCh) AM impairments were described as difficulties to retrieve specific memories (Cuervo-Lombard et al., 2007; D’argembeau et al., 2008; Neumann et al., 2007; Wood et al., 2006). SCh have specificity impairment for mill run autobiographical memories (AMs) and also, for AMs particularly important for construction and continuity to identity as self-defining memories (SDMs; Benounna-Greene, 2001; Raffard et al., 2009, 2010; Robinson and Taylor, 1998). SDMs have been particularly relevant in understanding the relationship between the identity and AM. Identity emerges during late adolescence and early adulthood period called “remimiscence bump period” because, it is characterized by a profusion of recalled memories in comparison to others periods of life span. Possibly, many memories from this period are of SDMs (Singer & Salovey, 1993) and have a powerful effect in binding the identity to a specific reality. Consequently, we supposed that identity impairments showed by SCch are related to SDMs deficits. 19 SCh and 19 healthy controls paired participated to this study. They were asked to give ten enduring “I am” statements that they felt “defined their identity.” Then, they selected the three statements among the ten, which are the “most personally significant to their sense of identity”. They were asked to recall three SDMs by each of three statements selected. Afterwards, they were asked to give: (1) their age for each statement when they felt it was a significant part of their identity, (2) their age at the time that the remembered event occurred. In parallel, the participants were completed neuropsychological measures, BDI-II, PANSS and, an identity stability measure. The results are discussed on the light of previous research [less ▲]

Du simple audit à l’amélioration continue de la qualité des pratiques dans le domaine de l’antibiothérapie

Poster (2013, March 02)

Quelle place pour le pharmacien clinicien en nutrition parentérale ? Etude rétrospective au CHU de Liège.

Poster (2013, March 02)

Thiamine and thiazolium binding proteome includes DJ-1, amyloid beta and several membrane proteins

Poster (2013, March)

Long term stability of TiO2 templated multilayer films used as high efficiency photoelectrode in liquid DSSCs

Poster (2013, March)

To our knowledge, the stability results reported in the literature only concern cells made from classical doctor-bladed or screen-printed nanoparticles films. This study focuses on the comparison of the ... [more ▼]

To our knowledge, the stability results reported in the literature only concern cells made from classical doctor-bladed or screen-printed nanoparticles films. This study focuses on the comparison of the long-term stability of these cells with DSSCs working with templated mesoporous films. Indeed, the increased surface area of templated films could lead to a faster degradation of the resulting cells. In accordance with IEC:1646:1996 standard tests, light soaking test at 45°C has been applied to determine the cells stability under prolonged illumination. Moreover, thermal stress in the dark has been applied. Unfortunately, due to the sealing material heat resistance, thermal stress test was only performed at 45°C. [less ▲]

Hierarchical Porous TiO2 thin films by soft and dual templating: A quantitative approach of specific surface and porosity

Poster (2013, March)

Hierarchical porous structures, with different pore sizes, constitute an important field of research for many applications. However, increasing the pore size results in the decrease of specific surface ... [more ▼]

Hierarchical porous structures, with different pore sizes, constitute an important field of research for many applications. However, increasing the pore size results in the decrease of specific surface. There is a need to quantify and predict the resulting porosity and specific surface. We have prepared hierarchical porous TiO2 thin films either by surfactant templating (soft) or dual surfactant/microspheres templating (soft/hard). They all show narrow, bimodal distribution of pores. Soft templating route leads to very thin films showing high specific surface and bimodal porosity with diameters of 10 nm and 54 nm. Dual templating route combines a Pluronic surfactant-based precursor solution with polystyrene (PS) microspheres (diam. 250 nm) in a one-pot simple process. This gives thicker films with a bimodal distribution of pores (8 nm and 165-200 nm). The dye loading of hierarchical films is compared to pure Pluronic-templated TiO2 films and shows a relative decrease of 29% for Single Templating (ST) and 43% for Dual Templating (DT-250). Finally, a geometrical model is proposed and validated for each system, based on the agreement between calculated specific surfaces and experimental dye loading with N719 dye. [less ▲]

Les représentations d’attachement chez les enfants de 5 à 8 ans placés en institution

Poster (2013, March)

A ce jour aucune étude n’a investigué la qualité d’attachement d’enfants hébergés en institution suite à de la maltraitance ou des négligences sévères. Or les recherches menées auprès de populations ... [more ▼]

A ce jour aucune étude n’a investigué la qualité d’attachement d’enfants hébergés en institution suite à de la maltraitance ou des négligences sévères. Or les recherches menées auprès de populations maltraitées indiquent de graves conséquences sur leur patron d’attachement ((Cyr et al., 2010) et de plus en plus de recherches soulignent les effets d’un attachement insécurisé sur le développement, surtout s’il est de type désorganisé (Lyons-Ruth & Jacobvitz, 2008). C’est pourtant ce type d’attachement qui est observé auprès d’environ la moitié des adolescents hébergés ou des adultes ayant été hébergés (Nowacki & Schoelmerich, 2010; Wallis & Steele, 2001; Webster et al., 2009). Cette étude a pour objectif d’évaluer la prévalence des modes d’attachement dans un échantillon d’enfants hébergés âgés entre 5 et 8 ans (N=73). L’évaluation de l’attachement a porté non pas sur les comportements d’attachement mais sur les modèles relationnels que les enfants ont intériorisés suite aux expériences vécues auprès de leur(s) figure(s) d’attachement. La procédure des histoires à compléter a été utilisée, filmée et codée en Q-sort via les cartes pour le complément d’histoires (C.C.H.) développé par Miljkovitch et collaborateurs (2003). Les résultats indiquent que 22% des enfants présentent un attachement de type sécure, 37% de désorganisé, 31% d’évitant et 10% d’ambivalent. Ceux-ci soulignent qu’à cet âge aussi, la désorganisation est observée dans de nombreux cas et nous constatons également qu’un nombre élevé d’enfants présentent des stratégies d’évitement qui risquent de leur causer de nombreuses difficultés relationnelles. Etant donné l’importance d’une prise en charge précoce des troubles d’attachement, il est primordial de s’interroger sur les interventions à proposer dans un cadre institutionnel face aux besoins spécifiques de ces enfants. [less ▲]

Characterization of monoclonal antibodies against Hemolysin Alpha of Staphylococcus aureus

Poster (2013, February 26)

In this study, vaccine-based targeting of Hemolysin Alpha (HLA) provides protection against lethal staphylococcal infection in a murine model system, suggesting that a monoclonal antibody-based therapy ... [more ▼]

In this study, vaccine-based targeting of Hemolysin Alpha (HLA) provides protection against lethal staphylococcal infection in a murine model system, suggesting that a monoclonal antibody-based therapy may likewise prove to be efficacious for prevention and treatment of this infection. We report the generation of four distinct anti-α-hemolysin monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) that antagonize toxin activity in vitro and protecting experimental animals against lethal S. aureus infection. [less ▲]

Biochemical and Structural studies of the type I tagatose bisphosphate aldolases

Poster (2013, February 26)

Case management projects enabling frail older people to stay in their own home a nested analysis within the framework of the evaluation of Protocol 3 projects

Poster (2013, February 22)

STUDY OF THE EFFECT OF TWO SURFACTANTS ON SPRAY RETENTION BY BARLEY LEAVES

Poster (2013, February 08)

Surfactants are nowadays very useful additives to improve the effectiveness of phytosanitary treatments. They contribute to change the types of impact and thus the amount of spray retained by the leaves ... [more ▼]

Surfactants are nowadays very useful additives to improve the effectiveness of phytosanitary treatments. They contribute to change the types of impact and thus the amount of spray retained by the leaves of the treated plant. We performed tests of retention on whole barley plants on BBCH 12 stage and small pieces of barley leaves at the same stage of growth. Spraying was done in three ways: water without surfactant, water with Break-Thru S240 and water with Li700. The three slurries of fluorescein contained in an amount of 0.2 g / l. Fluorescein retained by the leaves in both cases is then measured by a spectrofluoremeter. The retention tests on whole plants show that it is tripled by the first surfactant and doubled by the second. By cons on small pieces of barley leaves, the amount was increased by the use of surfactants but not to the same scale. This study concluded that the use of surfactants in spray pesticides may increase the amount of retention as a function of leaf area and the surfactant used. [less ▲]