Directed seed dispersal by western lowland gorillas (G. g. gorilla) at nest sites in Southeast Cameroon: implications for regeneration of logged forests

in Primate Tidings (2012)

ANTICOAGULATION FOR GERIATRIC PATIENTS WITH ATRIAL FIBRILLATION

in NPG. Neurologie - Psychiatrie - Gériatrie (2012), 12

À partir de deux cas cliniques fréquemment rencontrés dans la pratique gériatrique, nous avons revu les indications de prescription d’anticoagulants et leurs applications dans la population gériatrique ... [more ▼]

À partir de deux cas cliniques fréquemment rencontrés dans la pratique gériatrique, nous avons revu les indications de prescription d’anticoagulants et leurs applications dans la population gériatrique. La décision d’instaurer un traitement anticoagulant chez une personne âgée est grave, les conséquences pouvant en effet être importantes. Le risque hémorragique doit être mis en balance avec le risque embolique. L’un comme l’autre peut précipiter la dégradation physique et cognitive et altérer fortement la qualité de vie. De nombreux facteurs doivent être pris en considération. Même si l’utilisation des scores de risque doit être conseillée, l’importance du travail d’équipe, de l’évaluation des fonctions cognitives et de la communication entre les intervenants médicaux et paramédicaux permettent de bien cerner le profil du patient. Le rôle du médecin généraliste est également important dans la surveillance de l’INR, même si l’arrivée des nouveaux anticoagulants ne nécessitant pas de suivi biologique résoudra peut-être une partie du problème de la surveillance thérapeutique. Toutefois, l’utilisation de ce traitement chez les personnes âgées les plus vulnérables nécessitera toujours une grande prudence. L’absence de recommandations claires pour les patients âgés en fibrillation auriculaire nécessite souvent des décisions au cas par cas. [less ▲]

La qualité du logement comme variable environnementale : l'exemple de la région urbaine de Liège (Wallonie)

in Flux Cahiers scientifiques internationaux Réseaux et territoires (2012), 89/90

Cette contribution a pour objectif de mettre au centre de la réflexion sur les inégalités environnementales les qualités intrinsèques du logement (superficie, type de chauffage, salubrité, etc.). L’accès ... [more ▼]

Cette contribution a pour objectif de mettre au centre de la réflexion sur les inégalités environnementales les qualités intrinsèques du logement (superficie, type de chauffage, salubrité, etc.). L’accès à un logement de qualité reste en Wallonie un important vecteur de différenciation sociale. Nous proposons de considérer les attributs du logement comme une variable environnementale susceptible de renforcer les inégalités socio-économiques, au même titre que l’exposition au bruit, à la pollution atmosphérique ou l’accès aux aménités urbaines. A partir d’un indice de précarité socio-économique des quartiers, nous analysons les facteurs de renforcement des inégalités sociales et environnementales par la qualité du logement. L’étude de deux aménités urbaines - l’accessibilité par les alternatives à la voiture et l’accès aux espaces verts – permet de compléter cette approche. Nous mettons ainsi en exergue les spécificités des territoires urbains wallons – notamment au travers de l’analyse du cas spécifique de la région urbaine de Liège – et analysons comment ces aménités renforcent, compensent ou sont déconnectés – des inégalités sociales et en matière de logement. [less ▲]

Blastocyst transfer after aseptic vitrification of zygotes: an approach to overcome an impaired uterine environment

in Reproductive Biomedicine Online (2012), 25

In some IVF cycles, no fresh embryo transfer in the stimulated cycle is advisable. The cryopreservation of zygotes and the transfer of blastocysts in a cryo-embryo transfer is an option to circumvent an ... [more ▼]

In some IVF cycles, no fresh embryo transfer in the stimulated cycle is advisable. The cryopreservation of zygotes and the transfer of blastocysts in a cryo-embryo transfer is an option to circumvent an inadequate uterine environment due to risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, inappropriate endometrium build up, endometrial polyps or uterine myomas. For this strategy, highly secure and safe cryopreservation protocols are advisable. This study describes a protocol for aseptic vitrification of zygotes that results in high survival rates and minimizes the potential risk of contamination in liquid nitrogen during cooling and long-term storage. In mouse zygotes, there was no difference in efficiency as compared with a conventional open vitrification system. In IVF patients, aseptically vitrified zygotes showed no difference in blastocyst formation rate as compared with sibling zygotes kept in fresh culture. A clinical study comprising 173 cryo-cycles with a transfer of blastocysts originating from vitrified zygotes showed an ongoing pregnancy rate of 40.9%. The live birth rate per patient was 36.8%. A combination of good clinical results and increased safety conditions due to aseptic vitrification encourages the use of cryo-embryo transfer for patients with a suboptimal uterine environment in a fresh cycle. [less ▲]

Grimm'sche Märchen im Figurentheater

in Das andere Theater (2012), 82(3), 4-5

L'accompagnement des aidants des patients Alzheimer comme approche non-pharmacologique essentielle!

in La Sève (2012), (18ème année), 3-4

Grimms Märchen im Figurentheater

in Das andere Theater (2012), 82(3), 51

Apply and develop multiplex PCR to detect Fasciola gigantica infection in Lymnaea viridis at different larval stages

in Journal of Military Pharmaco-medicine (2012)

Multiplex PCR was used to detect Fasciola gigantica infection in Lymnaea viridis snail as intermediate host. In this study, snail Lymnaea viridis was experimentally infected with F.gigantica and used for ... [more ▼]

Multiplex PCR was used to detect Fasciola gigantica infection in Lymnaea viridis snail as intermediate host. In this study, snail Lymnaea viridis was experimentally infected with F.gigantica and used for DNA template. Fasciola specific primers was amplified a 124 bp fragment in multiplex PCR when the genomic DNA isolated from F.gigantica infected Lymnaea viridis snails was used as template and amplified a 500 - 600 bp fragment. Genomic DNA of the parasite was used as a positive control, which also gave an amplification of the 124 bp fragment. DNA isolated from non-infected snails was used as a negative control and no amplification of this sequence was observed. The developed diagnostic multiplex PCR will be of use for assessment of transmission of fascioliasis in snail as intermediate host in Vietnam. [less ▲]

Measure transformation and efficient quadrature in reduced-dimensional stochastic modeling of coupled problems

in International Journal for Numerical Methods in Engineering (2012), 92

Coupled problems with various combinations of multiple physics, scales, and domains are found in numerous areas of science and engineering. A key challenge in the formulation and implementation of ... [more ▼]

Coupled problems with various combinations of multiple physics, scales, and domains are found in numerous areas of science and engineering. A key challenge in the formulation and implementation of corresponding coupled numerical models is to facilitate the communication of information across physics, scale, and domain interfaces, as well as between the iterations of solvers used for response computations. In a probabilistic context, any information that is to be communicated between subproblems or iterations should be characterized by an appropriate probabilistic representation. Although the number of sources of uncertainty can be expected to be large in most coupled problems, our contention is that exchanged probabilistic information often resides in a considerably lower-dimensional space than the sources themselves. In this work, we thus propose to use a dimension reduction technique for obtaining the representation of the exchanged information, and we propose a measure transformation technique that allows subproblem implementations to exploit this dimension reduction to achieve computational gains. The effectiveness of the proposed dimension reduction and measure transformation methodology is demonstrated through a multiphysics problem relevant to nuclear engineering. [less ▲]

Paratopies et stratégies énonciatives. Étude du premier livre des Confessions

in Méthode! (2012), 22(automne), 115-124

Lecture du premier livre des "Confessions" de Jean-Jacques Rousseau à la lumière des outils proposés par l'analyse du discours. Ouvrage de référence : Dominique Maingueneau, Le discours littéraire ... [more ▼]

Lecture du premier livre des "Confessions" de Jean-Jacques Rousseau à la lumière des outils proposés par l'analyse du discours. Ouvrage de référence : Dominique Maingueneau, Le discours littéraire. Paratopie et scène d'énonciation, Armand Collin, 2004. [less ▲]

Des groupes d'achat accompagnés pour accélérer la rénovation énergétique du parc de logements privés dans les quartiers urbains wallons?

in Cahiers Nouveaux (Les) (2012), n°84

L'article revient sur une expérience menée dans le cadre de la recherche-action SUN (Sustainable Urban Neighbourhoods): l'organisation de groupes d'achat accompagnés de prestations de rénovation ... [more ▼]

L'article revient sur une expérience menée dans le cadre de la recherche-action SUN (Sustainable Urban Neighbourhoods): l'organisation de groupes d'achat accompagnés de prestations de rénovation énergétique (audits et différents types de travaux), afin d'encourager et de soutenir les propriétaires privés dans la rénovation de leur logement. [less ▲]

Preserving the morphology and evaluating the quality of liver grafts by hypothermic machine perfusion: A proof-of-concept study using discarded human livers.

in Liver Transplantation (2012), 18(12), 1495-507

The wider use of livers from expanded criteria donors and donation after circulatory death donors may help to improve access to liver transplantation. A prerequisite for safely using these higher risk ... [more ▼]

The wider use of livers from expanded criteria donors and donation after circulatory death donors may help to improve access to liver transplantation. A prerequisite for safely using these higher risk livers is the development of objective criteria for assessing their condition before transplantation. Compared to simple cold storage, hypothermic machine perfusion (HMP) provides a unique window for evaluating liver grafts between procurement and transplantation. In this proof-of-concept study, we tested basic parameters during HMP that may reflect the condition of human liver grafts, and we assessed their morphology after prolonged HMP. Seventeen discarded human livers were machine-perfused. Eleven livers were nontransplantable (major absolute contraindications and severe macrovesicular steatosis in the majority of the cases). Six livers were found in retrospect to be transplantable but could not be allocated and served as controls. Metabolic parameters (pH, lactate, partial pressure of oxygen, and partial pressure of carbon dioxide), enzyme release in the perfusate [aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)], and arterial/portal resistances were monitored during HMP. Nontransplantable livers released more AST and LDH than transplantable livers. In contrast, arterial/portal vascular resistances and metabolic profiles did not differ between the 2 groups. Morphologically, transplantable livers remained well preserved after 24 hours of HMP. In conclusion, HMP preserves the morphology of human livers for prolonged periods. A biochemical analysis of the perfusate provides information reflecting the extent of the injury endured. Liver Transpl, 2012. (c) 2012 AASLD. [less ▲]

Mass transport in carbon gels with tuned porosity

in Spanish Carbon Group Bulletin (2012)

Risk of hip fracture in community-dwelling and institutionalized osteoporotic patients: A 3-year study.

in International Journal of Gerontology (2012)

Background and aims: It has been previously suggested that the incidence of hip fracture is higher among people living in nursing homes than among community-dwelling people. However, it is not clear ... [more ▼]

Background and aims: It has been previously suggested that the incidence of hip fracture is higher among people living in nursing homes than among community-dwelling people. However, it is not clear whether this is a consequence of nursing home residency or of the greater age of the residents. We have examined the relationship between the place of residence and hip fracture incidence, in a prospective 3- year study. Methods: Women from nine countries included in this study were part of the placebo group of a randomized controlled trial having assessed the long-term effect of a new antiosteoporotic drug. All women were osteoporotic and received placebo and vitamin D during the 3 years of follow-up. All the institutionalized (nursing home, medical house) women (n ¼ 217) were included in this post hoc analysis and three noninstitutionalized age- and country-matched controls were included (n ¼ 651). Results: The mean (and standard deviation) age of the patients was 80.4 (5.6) years in the institutionalized women and 80.2 (5.8) years in the noninstitutionalized women (p ¼ 0.87). After 3 years of followup, 37 fractures occurred: 12 (5.5%) in institutionalized women and 25 (3.8%) in noninstitutionalized women. The difference between the two groups was not statistically significant (p ¼ 0.29). After controlling for age, body mass index, femoral neck bone mineral density and prevalent nonvertebral fracture, the residence status of the patient (institutionalized vs. noninstitutionalized) was not significantly associated with hip fracture incidence (p ¼ 0.63). Conclusions: We suggest that living in an institutionalized place is not an independent risk factor for hip fracture for osteoporotic women receiving calcium and vitamin D. [less ▲]

Localized electron dynamics in attosecond-pulse-excited molecular systems: Probing the time-dependent electron density by sudden photoionization

in Physical Review. A (2012)

Ultrafast UV excitation can prepare a nonstationary coherent superposition of molecular electronic states. The purely electronic dynamics before the onset of nuclear motion can be probed by a sudden XUV ... [more ▼]

Ultrafast UV excitation can prepare a nonstationary coherent superposition of molecular electronic states. The purely electronic dynamics before the onset of nuclear motion can be probed by a sudden XUV ionization of the electronic wave packet. Dynamical computations at the many-electron level on the LiH and 1-azabicyclo[3.3.3]undecane (C10H19N) molecules showthat molecular frame photoelectron angular distributions reflect the spatial localization and undulations of the electronic coherent superposition accessed by the initial ultrafast UV excitation. The sudden ionization is sensitive to interference effects. [less ▲]

Capsular Gene Typing of Streptococcus agalactiae Compared to Serotyping by Latex Agglutination

in Journal of Clinical Microbiology (2012), 51(2), 503-507

We evaluated three different PCR-based capsular gene typing methods applied to 312 human and bovine Streptococcus agalac- tiae (group B Streptococcus [GBS]) isolates and compared the results to serotyping ... [more ▼]

We evaluated three different PCR-based capsular gene typing methods applied to 312 human and bovine Streptococcus agalac- tiae (group B Streptococcus [GBS]) isolates and compared the results to serotyping results obtained by latex agglutination. Among 281 human isolates 27% could not be typed by latex agglutination. All 312 isolates except 5 could be typed by the three PCR methods combined. Two of these methods were multiplex assays. Among the isolates that were typeable by both latex ag- glutination and capsular gene typing, 94% showed agreement between the two methods. However, each of the PCR methods showed limitations. One of the methods did not include all 10 recognized serotypes, one misidentified eight isolates of serotypes Ib and IV as serotype Ia, and one did not distinguish between serotypes VII and IX. For five isolates that showed aberrant pat- terns in the capsular gene typing, long-range PCR targeting the cps operon disclosed large insertions or deletions affecting the cps gene cluster. A sensitive flow cytometric assay based on serotype-specific antibodies applied to 76 selected isolates that were nontypeable by latex agglutination revealed that approximately one-half of these did express capsular polysaccharide. A proce- dure for convenient and reliable capsular gene typing to be included in epidemiological and surveillance studies of S. agalactiae is proposed. [less ▲]

Compte rendu de M. Dumoulin e.a., Ces Chers Voisins

in H-Soz-u-Kult. Kommunikation und Fachinformation für die Geschichtswissenschaften (2012)

FATAL ALVEOLAR ECHINOCOCCOSIS OF THE LUMBAR SPINE

in Journal of Clinical Microbiology (2012)

For the last ten years, the southern part of Belgium has been recognized as a low-risk endemic area for alveolar echinococcosis. This infection, caused by Echinococcus multilocularis, usually induces a ... [more ▼]

For the last ten years, the southern part of Belgium has been recognized as a low-risk endemic area for alveolar echinococcosis. This infection, caused by Echinococcus multilocularis, usually induces a severe liver condition, and can sometimes spread to other organs. However, alveolar echinococcosis involving bones has been described only very rarely. Here, a fatal case of spondylodiscitis due to E. multilocularis contracted in southern Belgium is reported. [less ▲]

Analysis of the diastereoisomers of alliin by HPLC

in Talanta (2012), 101

Garlic has been known for its therapeutic effects for centuries and is used worldwide as a functional food. The concentration of the active molecules could be enhanced by a better knowledge of their ... [more ▼]

Garlic has been known for its therapeutic effects for centuries and is used worldwide as a functional food. The concentration of the active molecules could be enhanced by a better knowledge of their biosynthesis. The precursor of these compounds, alliin (a sulfur amino-acid) has been obtained by chemical synthesis. However, this synthesis route also leads to a diastereoisomer as co-product. This work describes the development of an analytical method which allows the separation and quantification of the two diastereoisomers in order to determine in which proportion the natural form can be produced. The HPLC method which was optimized and validated by accuracy profile exploits an original stationary phase consisting of porous graphitic carbon (PGC). Furthermore, the developped method was used to separate the diastereoisomers of methiin, another garlic cysteine sulfoxide, and to analyse and aqueous extract of garlic. The ability to quantify the amount of natural alliin is valuable for further work on garlic molecules and their application for health protection. [less ▲]

Comment écrire pour transmettre ? Modalités argumenatives chez Ferdinand de Saussure

in Genesis (2012), 35

This article aims to examine and highlight what appears to have been the typical approach whereby Saussure built his arguments. We focus on the genesis of a theme addressed by the linguist in the ... [more ▼]

This article aims to examine and highlight what appears to have been the typical approach whereby Saussure built his arguments. We focus on the genesis of a theme addressed by the linguist in the preparation of a report on a book published by J. Schmidt (1895), namely the many anomalies of the (generally assumed) “theory of sonorants”. Seeking the multiple reformulations of this idea throughout this dossier (relatively complete, which is rare in Saussure), we try to highlight some characteristics specifi c to the theoretical arguments in the humanities. [less ▲]

Greenland ice sheet surface mass balance: evaluating simulations and making projections with regional climate models

in Cryosphere (The) (2012), 6

Four high-resolution regional climate models (RCMs) have been set up for the area of Greenland, with the aim of providing future projections of Greenland ice sheet surface mass balance (SMB), and its ... [more ▼]

Four high-resolution regional climate models (RCMs) have been set up for the area of Greenland, with the aim of providing future projections of Greenland ice sheet surface mass balance (SMB), and its contribution to sea level rise, with greater accuracy than is possible from coarser-resolution general circulation models (GCMs). This is the first time an intercomparison has been carried out of RCM results for Greenland climate and SMB. Output from RCM simulations for the recent past with the four RCMs is evaluated against available observations. The evaluation highlights the importance of using a detailed snow physics scheme, especially regarding the representations of albedo and meltwater refreezing. Simulations with three of the RCMs for the 21st century using SRES scenario A1B from two GCMs produce trends of between −5.5 and −1.1 Gt yr−2 in SMB (equivalent to +0.015 and +0.003 mm sea level equivalent yr−2), with trends of smaller magnitude for scenario E1, in which emissions are mitigated. Results from one of the RCMs whose present-day simulation is most realistic indicate that an annual mean near-surface air temperature increase over Greenland of ~ 2°C would be required for the mass loss to increase such that it exceeds accumulation, thereby causing the SMB to become negative, which has been suggested as a threshold beyond which the ice sheet would eventually be eliminated. [less ▲]

Greenland ice-sheet contribution to sea-level rise buffered by meltwater storage in firn

in Nature (2012), 491

Surface melt on the Greenland ice sheet has shown increasing trends in areal extent and duration since the beginning of the satellite era. Records for melt were broken in 2005, 2007, 2010 and 2012. Much ... [more ▼]

Surface melt on the Greenland ice sheet has shown increasing trends in areal extent and duration since the beginning of the satellite era. Records for melt were broken in 2005, 2007, 2010 and 2012. Much of the increased surface melt is occurring in the percolation zone, a region of the accumulation area that is perennially covered by snow and firn (partly compacted snow). The fate of melt water in the percolation zone is poorly constrained: some may travel away from its point of origin and eventually influence the ice sheet’s flow dynamics and mass balance and the global sea level, whereas some may simply infiltrate into cold snow or firn and refreeze with none of these effects. Here we quantify the existing water storage capacity of the percolation zone of the Greenland ice sheet and show the potential for hundreds of gigatonnes of meltwater storage. We collected in situ observations of firn structure and meltwater retention along a roughly 85-kilometre-long transect of the melting accumulation area. Our data show that repeated infiltration events in which melt water penetrates deeply (more than 10 metres) eventually fill all pore space with water. As future surface melt intensifies under Arctic warming, a fraction of melt water that would otherwise contribute to sea-level rise will fill existing pore space of the percolation zone. We estimate the lower and upper bounds of this storage sink to be 322 ± 44 gigatonnes and 1.289 gigatonnes, respectively. Furthermore, we find that decades are required to fill this pore space under a range of plausible future climate conditions. Hence, routing of surface melt water into filling the pore space of the firn column will delay expansion of the area contributing to sea-level rise, although once the pore space is filled it cannot quickly be regenerated. [less ▲]

Concepts, intentionnalité et conscience phénoménale

in Bulletin d'Analyse Phénoménologique (2012), VIII(5), 1-41

Dans cette étude, nous nous proposons d’appliquer à la sphère phénoménale la thèse conceptualiste selon laquelle le contenu d’un acte de perception est intégralement réductible à un contenu conceptuel. Il ... [more ▼]

Dans cette étude, nous nous proposons d’appliquer à la sphère phénoménale la thèse conceptualiste selon laquelle le contenu d’un acte de perception est intégralement réductible à un contenu conceptuel. Il s’agit de défendre l’idée que les qualités phénoménales — les qualia — sont elles aussi justiciables, à l’instar de l’ensemble de ce qui compose le contenu de l’expérience perceptive, d’une identification conceptuelle. Pour mener à bien notre projet, nous étendrons, au prix de quelques rectifications, la thèse conceptualiste initialement développée par J. McDowell à la phénoménologie de la perception. Cela nous permettra d’établir un dialogue fructueux entre les débats actuels en philosophie de l’esprit et la (proto-)phénoménologie husserlienne. L’issue de cette discussion entre traditions n’est rien de moins qu’une nouvelle lecture de la phénoménologie, au-delà de son interprétation frégéenne. [less ▲]

Quand la Cour européenne des droits de l’homme préserve le Conseil de sécurité au détriment de la Suisse

in Journal des Tribunaux (2012), 131(6495), 729-731

Observations sous CEDH (Grande Ch.), Nada c. Suisse, requête No. 10593/08, arrêt du 12 septembre 2012.

Pulsations of rapidly rotating stars. I. The ACOR numerical code

in Astronomy and Astrophysics (2012), 547

Context. Very high precision seismic space missions such as CoRoT and Kepler provide the means of testing the modeling of transport processes in stellar interiors. For some stars, such as solar-like and ... [more ▼]

Context. Very high precision seismic space missions such as CoRoT and Kepler provide the means of testing the modeling of transport processes in stellar interiors. For some stars, such as solar-like and red giant stars, a rotational splitting is measured. However, to fully exploit these splittings and constrain the rotation profile, one needs to be able to calculate them accurately. For some other stars, such as δ Scuti and Be stars, for instance, the observed pulsation spectra are modified by rotation to such an extent that a perturbative treatment of the effects of rotation is no longer valid. <BR /> Aims: We present here a new two-dimensional non-perturbative code called ACOR (adiabatic code of oscillation including rotation) that allows us to compute adiabatic non-radial pulsations of rotating stars without making any assumptions on the sphericity of the star, the fluid properties (i.e., baroclinicity) or the rotation profile. <BR /> Methods: The 2D non-perturbative calculations fully take into account the centrifugal distortion of the star and include the full influence of the Coriolis acceleration. The numerical method is based on a spectral approach for the angular part of the modes and a fourth-order finite differences approach for the radial part. <BR /> Results: We test and evaluate the accuracy of the calculations by comparing them with those coming from the TOP (two-dimensional oscillation program) for the same polytropic models. We illustrate the effects of rapid rotation on stellar pulsations through the phenomenon of avoided crossings. <BR /> Conclusions: As shown by the comparison with the TOP for simple models, the code is stable, and gives accurate results up to near-critical rotation rates. [less ▲]

Magnetic fields of HgMn stars

in Astronomy and Astrophysics (2012), 547

Context. The frequent presence of weak magnetic fields on the surface of spotted late-B stars with HgMn peculiarity in binary systems has been controversial during the two last decades. Recent studies of ... [more ▼]

Context. The frequent presence of weak magnetic fields on the surface of spotted late-B stars with HgMn peculiarity in binary systems has been controversial during the two last decades. Recent studies of magnetic fields in these stars using the least-squares deconvolution (LSD) technique have failed to detect magnetic fields, indicating an upper limit on the longitudinal field between 8 and 15 G. In these LSD studies, assumptions were made that all spectral lines are identical in shape and can be described by a scaled mean profile. <BR /> Aims: We re-analyse the available spectropolarimetric material by applying the moment technique on spectral lines of inhomogeneously distributed elements separately. Furthermore, we present new determinations of the mean longitudinal magnetic field for the HgMn star HD 65949 and the hotter analog of HgMn stars, the PGa star HD 19400, using FORS 2 installed at the VLT. We also give new measurements of the eclipsing system AR Aur with a primary star of HgMn peculiarity, which were obtained with the SOFIN spectropolarimeter installed at the Nordic Optical Telescope. <BR /> Methods: We downloaded from the European Southern Observatory (ESO) archive the publically available HARPS spectra for eight HgMn stars and one normal and one superficially normal B-type star obtained in 2010. Out of this sample, three HgMn stars belong to spectroscopic double-lined systems. The application of the moment technique to the HARPS and SOFIN spectra allowed us to study the presence of the longitudinal magnetic field, the crossover effect, and quadratic magnetic fields. Results for the HgMn star HD 65949 and the PGa star HD 19400 are based on a linear regression analysis of low-resolution spectra obtained with FORS 2 in spectropolarimetric mode. <BR /> Results: Our measurements of the magnetic field with the moment technique using spectral lines of several elements separately reveal the presence of a weak longitudinal magnetic field, a quadratic magnetic field, and the crossover effect on the surface of several HgMn stars as well as normal and superficially normal B-type stars. Furthermore, our analysis suggests the existence of intriguing correlations between the strength of the magnetic field, abundance anomalies, and binary properties. The results are discussed in the context of possible mechanisms responsible for the development of the element patches and complex magnetic fields on the surface of late B-type stars. Based on observations obtained at the European Southern Observatory (ESO programmes 076.D-0169(A), 076.D-0172(A), 084.D-0338(A), 085.D-0296(A), 085.D-0296(B), 087.D-0049(A), 088.D-0284(A)), SOFIN observations at the 2.56 m Nordic Optical Telescope on La Palma, and observations obtained with the CORALIE Echelle Spectrograph on the 1.2 m Euler Swiss telescope on La Silla, Chile.Tables 2-7, 9, 10 are only available in electronic form at <A href="http://www.aanda.org">http://www.aanda.org</A> [less ▲]

Multisite spectroscopic seismic study of the β Cep star V2052 Ophiuchi: inhibition of mixing by its magnetic field

in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society (2012), 427

We used extensive ground-based multisite and archival spectroscopy to derive observational constraints for a seismic modelling of the magnetic β Cep star V2052 Ophiuchi. The line-profile variability is ... [more ▼]

We used extensive ground-based multisite and archival spectroscopy to derive observational constraints for a seismic modelling of the magnetic β Cep star V2052 Ophiuchi. The line-profile variability is dominated by a radial mode (f1 = 7.148 46 d-1) and by rotational modulation (P_rot = 3.638 833 d). Two non-radial low-amplitude modes (f2 = 7.756 03 d-1 and f3 = 6.823 08 d-1) are also detected. The four periodicities that we found are the same as the ones discovered from a companion multisite photometric campaign and known in the literature. Using the photometric constraints on the degrees ℓ of the pulsation modes, we show that both f_2 and f_3 are prograde modes with (ℓ, m) = (4, 2) or (4, 3). These results allowed us to deduce ranges for the mass (M ∈ [8.2, 9.6] M_sun) and central hydrogen abundance (X_c ∈ [0.25, 0.32]) of V2052 Oph, to identify the radial orders n1 = 1, n2 = -3 and n3 = -2, and to derive an equatorial rotation velocity v_eq ∈ [71, 75] km s-1. The model parameters are in full agreement with the effective temperature and surface gravity deduced from spectroscopy. Only models with no or mild core overshooting (α_ov ∈ [0, 0.15] local pressure scale heights) can account for the observed properties. Such a low overshooting is opposite to our previous modelling results for the non-magnetic β Cep star θ Oph having very similar parameters, except for a slower surface rotation rate. We discuss whether this result can be explained by the presence of a magnetic field in V2052 Oph that inhibits mixing in its interior. [less ▲]

Evaluation of the cross-reactivity of 25-hydroxyvitamin D2 on seven commercial immunoassays on native samples

in Clinical Chemistry & Laboratory Medicine (2012), 50(11), 2031-2

Tödlich in jedem Alter

in hundkatzepferd (2012)

TEXTURAL DESCRIPTORS FOR MULTIPHASIC ORE PARTICLES

in Image Analysis and Stereology (2012), 31(3),

Monitoring of mineral processing circuits by means of particle liberation analysis through quantitative image analysis has become a routine technique within the last decades. Usually, liberation indices ... [more ▼]

Monitoring of mineral processing circuits by means of particle liberation analysis through quantitative image analysis has become a routine technique within the last decades. Usually, liberation indices are computed as weight proportions, which is not informative enough when complex texture ores are treated by flotation. In these cases, liberation has to be computed as phase surface exposed to reactants, and textural relationships between minerals have to be characterized to determine the possibility of increasing exposure. In this paper, some indices to achieve a complete texture characterization have been developed in terms of 2D phase contact and mineral surfaces exposure. Indices suggested by other authors are also compared. The response of this set of parameters against textural changes has been explored on simple synthetic textures ranging from single to multiple inclusions and single to multiple veins and their ability to discriminate between different textural features is analyzed over real mineral particles with known internal structure. [less ▲]

Structural fire design and optimisation of a building

in Structural Engineering International (2012), 22(4), 541-544

The "Maison de la Paix" building will be built for the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies in Geneva (IHEID). At its heart will be a library, numerous auditoriums and seminar rooms ... [more ▼]

The "Maison de la Paix" building will be built for the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies in Geneva (IHEID). At its heart will be a library, numerous auditoriums and seminar rooms, and a cafeteria. A complete fire analysis has been performed to optimise the steel structures. [less ▲]

Validation tests of the full-discontinuous Galerkin / extrinsic cohesive law framework of Kirchhoff-Love shells

in International Journal of Fracture (2012), 178(1), 299-322

Due to its ability to account for discontinuities, the discontinuous Galerkin (DG) method presents two main advantages for modeling crack initiations and propagation. On the one hand, it provides an easy ... [more ▼]

Due to its ability to account for discontinuities, the discontinuous Galerkin (DG) method presents two main advantages for modeling crack initiations and propagation. On the one hand, it provides an easy way to insert the cohesive elements during the simulation and therefore avoids the drawbacks inherent to the use of an extrinsic cohesive law. On the other hand, the capture of complex crack path requires very thin meshes and the recourse to a parallel implementation of DG formulations exhibits a high scalability of the resolution scheme. Recently, the authors developed such a DG-fracture framework for Kirchhoff-Love shells in the linear and non-linear ranges. They proved that this framework dissipates, during the fracture process, an amount of energy equal to the fracture energy of the material and that the model is able to propagate the crack with the right speed. In this paper, novel numerical benchmarks are presented to validate the method in various fracture conditions. The two first ones include an initial notch and study the fracture propagation under two different dynamic loadings (impact and blast). The two other ones focus on the fragmentation of initially unbroken specimens due to uniform expansion in order to demonstrate the ability of the new framework to model crack initiations. Results are in all cases in agreement with the ones reported in the literature. [less ▲]

Mean Expression of the X-Chromosome is Associated with Neuronal Density.

in Frontiers in Neuroscience (2012), 6

Background: Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by key features such as loss of neurons, astrocytosis, and microglial activation/proliferation. These changes cause differences in the density of ... [more ▼]

Background: Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by key features such as loss of neurons, astrocytosis, and microglial activation/proliferation. These changes cause differences in the density of cell types between control and disease subjects, confounding results from gene expression studies. Chromosome X (ChrX) is known to be specifically important in the brain. We hypothesized the existence of a chromosomal signature of gene expression associated with the X-chromosome for neurological conditions not normally associated with that chromosome. The hypothesis was investigated using publicly available microarray datasets from studies on Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and Huntington's disease. Data were analyzed using Chromowave, an analytical tool for detecting spatially extended expression changes along chromosomes. To examine associations with neuronal density and astrocytosis, the expression of cell specific reporter genes was extracted. The association between these genes and the expression patterns extracted by Chromowave was then analyzed. Further analyses of the X:Autosome ratios for laser dissected neurons, microglia cultures and whole tissue were performed to detect cell specific differences. Results: We observed an extended pattern of low expression of ChrX consistent in all the neurodegenerative disease brain datasets. There was a strong correlation between mean ChrX expression and the pattern extracted from the autosomal genes representing neurons, but not with mean autosomal expression. No chromosomal patterns associated with the neuron specific genes were found on other chromosomes. The chromosomal expression pattern was not present in datasets from blood cells. The X:Autosome expression ratio was also higher in neuronal cells than in tissues with a mix of cell types. Conclusions: The results suggest that neurological disorders show as a reduction in mean expression of many genes along ChrX. The most likely explanation for this finding relates to the documented general up-regulation of ChrX in brain tissue which, this work suggests, occurs primarily in neurons. If validated, this cell specific ChrX expression warrants further research as understanding the biological reasons and mechanisms for this expression, may help to elucidate a connection with the development of neurodegenerative disorders. [less ▲]

Reply to the Editor

in Annals of Thoracic Surgery (2012), 94(5), 1787

Henri Peña Ruiz ou la France éclairant le Monde

in Politique : Revue de Débats (2012), 77

L'article expose et analyse la philosophie de la laïcité "républicaine" à la française à travers l'oeuvre d'Henri Peña Ruiz, en particulier "Dieu et Marianne" et "Qu'est-ce que la laïcité". Il tente de ... [more ▼]

L'article expose et analyse la philosophie de la laïcité "républicaine" à la française à travers l'oeuvre d'Henri Peña Ruiz, en particulier "Dieu et Marianne" et "Qu'est-ce que la laïcité". Il tente de montrer, que, bien que d'inspiration progressiste, la construction philosophique de Peña Ruiz, par le dogmatisme de sa métaphysique largement platonicienne, expose la laïcité aux récupérations nationalistes voire xénophobes. Il défend qu'en partant de l'unité "a priori", d'un peuple abstrait (le "laos"), cette conception réintroduit une transcendance qui l'éloigne à la fois de la philosophie des lumières et de l'indétermination démocratique. [less ▲]

A validated GC-MS method for the determination and quantification of residual solvents in counterfeit tablets and capsules

in Journal of Pharmaceutical & Biomedical Analysis (2012), 70

A fast headspace GC-MS method was developed and validated for the detection and quantification of residual solvents of all three ICH-classes in counterfeit tablets and capsules. The method was validated ... [more ▼]

A fast headspace GC-MS method was developed and validated for the detection and quantification of residual solvents of all three ICH-classes in counterfeit tablets and capsules. The method was validated for ten solvents, selected based on an initial screening of counterfeit medicinal products. The considered solvents were ethanol, 2-propanol, acetone, ethylacetate, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, benzene, toluene, dichloromethane and ethylbenzene. The proposed method uses a Phenomenex 624 capillary column (60 m x 0.32 mm; 1.8 µm film thickness) (Phenomenex, Torrance, USA) with an oven temperature program from 60°C (held for 5 min) to 270°C at 25 °C/min. 270°C is held for 10 min. The total run time is 23.4 minutes. The obtained method was fully validated by applying the “total error” profile. Calibration lines for all components were linear within the studied ranges. The relative bias and the relative standard deviations for all components were smaller than 5%, the -expectation tolerance limits did not exceed the acceptance limits of 10% and the relative expanded uncertainties were acceptable for all of the considered components. A method was obtained for the screening and quantification of residual solvents in counterfeit tablets and capsules, which will allow a fast screening of these products for the presence of residual solvents. [less ▲]

Cautious operation planning under uncertainties

in IEEE Transactions on Power Systems (2012), 27(4), 1859-1869

This paper deals with day-ahead power systems security planning under uncertainties, by posing an optimization problem over a set of power injection scenarios that could show up the next day and modeling ... [more ▼]

This paper deals with day-ahead power systems security planning under uncertainties, by posing an optimization problem over a set of power injection scenarios that could show up the next day and modeling the next day's real-time control strategies aiming at ensuring security with respect to contingencies by a combination of preventive and corrective controls. We seek to determine whether and which day-ahead decisions must be taken so that for scenarios over the next day there still exists an acceptable combination of preventive and corrective controls ensuring system security for any postulated contingency. We formulate this task as a three-stage feasibility checking problem, where the first stage corresponds to day-ahead decisions, the second stage to preventive control actions, and the third stage to corrective post-contingency controls. We propose a solution approach based on the problem decomposition into successive optimal power flow (OPF) and security-constrained optimal power flow (SCOPF) problems of a special type. Our approach is illustrated on the Nordic32 system and on a 1203-bus model of a real-life system. [less ▲]

Cahiers d'études du renseignement vol.2

in Cahiers d'études du renseignement (2012), 2

Périodique réalisé par le Belgian Intelligence studies center

Batavia as Patria: Literary Representations of Batavia in W.J. Hofdijk’s Work

in Dutch Crossing : a Journal of Low Countries studies (2012), 36(3), 216-227

The depiction of Batavia is examined in W. J. Hofdijk’s long epic poem In ’t harte van Java (In Java’s Heart) published in 1881; a detailed description of the city was incorporated into his narrative ... [more ▼]

The depiction of Batavia is examined in W. J. Hofdijk’s long epic poem In ’t harte van Java (In Java’s Heart) published in 1881; a detailed description of the city was incorporated into his narrative, showing Batavia as seen through Javanese eyes, and thus turning the city into an emblem of the fatherland itself. Founded on the northern coast of Java in 1619, the city of Batavia was admired for its picturesque beauty and its overall European character. The qualities for which it was praised hint at Batavia’s curiously hybrid nature: whilst in many respects it differed dramatically from the Netherlands, it was at the same time portrayed as quintessentially Dutch. It was an exotic, far-away place and yet an integral part of the nation. This dichotomy represented an obvious complication for writers in the Netherlands eager to extol its virtues. [less ▲]

Game species monitoring using road–based distance sampling in association with thermal imagers: a covariate analysis

in Animal Biodiversity and Conservation (2012), 35(2), 253-265

Monitoring of game species populations is necessary to adequately assess culling by hunters in areas where natural large predators are absent. However, game managers have to control several species and ... [more ▼]

Monitoring of game species populations is necessary to adequately assess culling by hunters in areas where natural large predators are absent. However, game managers have to control several species and they often lack of an efficient and convenient survey design method. Monitoring several species at that same time over large areas could thus be cost– and time–effective. We tested the influence of several factors during monitoring of three common game species, (wild boar, roe deer and red fox, using road–based distance sampling in association with thermal imagers. This pilot survey based on 20 night counts in five contrasting sites studied the effect of several covariates (species, thermal imaging, observer, group size, and habitat type) on the detection probabilities. No differences were observed between thermal imagers and group sizes , but we found differences between observers . Expected differences were also observed between species and between habitat type. Our results show that the detectability of low cost thermal imaging equipment is similar to that of more expensive methods, highlighting new possibilities for the use of thermal imagery by game managers. Although adjustments should be made to the study design our findings suggest that large–scale multi–species monitoring could be an efficient method for common game species. [less ▲]

Protective role of P2Y(2) receptor against lung infection induced by pneumonia virus of mice

in PLoS ONE (2012), 7(11), 50385

ATP released in the early inflammatory processes acts as a danger signal by binding to purinergic receptors expressed on immune cells. A major contribution of the P2Y2 receptor of ATP/UTP to dendritic ... [more ▼]

ATP released in the early inflammatory processes acts as a danger signal by binding to purinergic receptors expressed on immune cells. A major contribution of the P2Y2 receptor of ATP/UTP to dendritic cell function and Th2 lymphocyte recruitment during asthmatic airway inflammation was previously reported. We investigated here the involvement of P2Y2 receptor in lung inflammation initiated by pneumonia virus of mice infection. We demonstrated that P2Y2-/- mice display a severe increase in morbidity and mortality rate in response to the virus. Lower survival of P2Y2-/- mice was not correlated with excessive inflammation despite the higher level of neutrophil recruiters in their bronchoalveolar fluids. Interestingly, we observed reduced ATP level and lower numbers of dendritic cells, CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells in P2Y2-/- compared to P2Y2+/+ infected lungs. Lower level of IL-12 and higher level of IL-6 in bronchoalveolar fluid support an inhibition of Th1 response in P2Y2-/- infected mice. Quantification of DC recruiter expression revealed comparable IP-10 and MIP-3 levels but a reduced BRAK level in P2Y2-/- compared to P2Y2+/+ bronchoalveolar fluids. Higher morbidity and mortality of P2Y2-/- mice appear to result from defective dendritic cell and T cell infiltration that were correlated with higher virus titer. In conclusion, P2Y2 receptor previously described as a target in cystic fibrosis therapy and as a mediator of Th2 response in asthma, may also regulate Th1 response protecting mice against lung viral infection. [less ▲]

Comment j’explore …Une différence de risque de survenue d’un événement dans les études cliniques

in Revue Médicale de Liège (2012), 67(11), 597-602

Evidence-based medicine often requires the comparison of two therapeutic interventions in controlled clinical trials with the demonstration of a superiority (versus a placebo or an active comparator) or ... [more ▼]

Evidence-based medicine often requires the comparison of two therapeutic interventions in controlled clinical trials with the demonstration of a superiority (versus a placebo or an active comparator) or at least a non-inferiority (versus an active reference) concerning a primary endpoint that has been defined a priori (occurrence of a major clinical event, for instance). The difference in the occurrence of such an event between two treatments may be statistically analyzed by absolute risk reduction, relative risk reduction, hazard ratio or odds ratio. The present article discusses the nuances, sometimes of importance, concerning the significance of these various indices and analyses the cautions to be taken and the pitfalls to be avoided in their interpretation and use in practice. The clinician is, indeed, increasingly confronted to results of clinical trials, but is generally poorly informed regarding the nuances of these various statistical analyses. [less ▲]

Quelles perspectives pour l'évaluation en promotion de la santé en Fédération Wallonie-Bruxelles ?

in Education Santé (2012), (283), 2-4

Greening the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). The Analysis of Developments

in Punctul Critic, Quarterly social, political and cultural diagnostic (2012), 6

Evaluation du premier Plan national nutrition santé belge : peut mieux faire

in Education Santé (2012), (383), 34-37

Function, diversity and therapeutic potential of the N-terminal domain of human chemokine receptors

in Biochemical Pharmacology (2012)

Direct identification of bacteria from BacT/ALERT anaerobic positive blood cultures by MALDI-TOF MS: MALDI Sepsityper kit versus an in-house saponin method for bacterial extraction.

in Journal of Medical Microbiology (2012), 61

In cases of bacteraemia, a rapid species identification of the causal agent directly from positive blood culture broths could assist clinicians in the timely targeting of empirical antimicrobial therapy ... [more ▼]

In cases of bacteraemia, a rapid species identification of the causal agent directly from positive blood culture broths could assist clinicians in the timely targeting of empirical antimicrobial therapy. For this purpose, we evaluated the direct identification of micro-organisms from BacT/ALERT (bioMérieux) anaerobic positive blood cultures without charcoal using the Microflex matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) time of flight MS (Bruker), after bacterial extraction by using two different methods: the MALDI Sepsityper kit (Bruker) and an in-house saponin lysis method. Bruker's recommended criteria for identification were expanded in this study, with acceptance of the species identification when the first three results with the best matches with the MALDI Biotyper database were identical, whatever the scores were. In total, 107 monobacterial cultures and six polymicrobial cultures from 77 different patients were included in this study. Among monomicrobial cultures, we identified up to the species level 67 and 66 % of bacteria with the MALDI Sepsityper kit and the saponin method, respectively. There was no significant difference between the two extraction methods. The direct species identification was particularly inconclusive for Gram-positive bacteria, as only 58 and 52 % of them were identified to the species level with the MALDI Sepsityper kit and the saponin method, respectively. Results for Gram-negative bacilli were better, with 82.5 and 90 % of correct identification to the species level with the MALDI Sepsityper kit and the saponin method, respectively. No misidentifications were given by the direct procedures when compared with identifications provided by the conventional method. Concerning the six polymicrobial blood cultures, whatever the extraction method used, a correct direct identification was only provided for one of the isolated bacteria on solid medium in all cases. The analysis of the time-to-result demonstrated a reduction in the turnaround time for identification ranging from 1 h 06 min to 24 h 44 min, when performing the blood culture direct identification in comparison with the conventional method, whatever the extraction method. [less ▲]

Philippe Corcuff : Où est passée la critique sociale ?

in Revue Française de Science Politique (2012), A paraître

Dans son ouvrage "Ou est passée la critique sociale ?", Philippe Corcuff nous propose un parcours à travers les théories sociologique contemporaines qui abordent la critique. Il propose de ne pas tenter ... [more ▼]

Dans son ouvrage "Ou est passée la critique sociale ?", Philippe Corcuff nous propose un parcours à travers les théories sociologique contemporaines qui abordent la critique. Il propose de ne pas tenter de résoudre les grandes antinomies de la sociologie mais de les laisser "en tention". [less ▲]

Combined Mitochondrial and Nuclear Markers Revealed a Deep Vicariant History for Leopoldamys neilli, a Cave-Dwelling Rodent of Thailand

in PLoS ONE (2012), 7(10), 47670

Background: Historical biogeography and evolutionary processes of cave taxa have been widely studied in temperate regions. However, Southeast Asian cave ecosystems remain largely unexplored despite their ... [more ▼]

Background: Historical biogeography and evolutionary processes of cave taxa have been widely studied in temperate regions. However, Southeast Asian cave ecosystems remain largely unexplored despite their high scientific interest. Here we studied the phylogeography of Leopoldamys neilli, a cave-dwelling murine rodent living in limestone karsts of Thailand, and compared the molecular signature of mitochondrial and nuclear markers. Methodology/Principal Findings: We used a large sampling (n = 225) from 28 localities in Thailand and a combination of mitochondrial and nuclear markers with various evolutionary rates (two intronic regions and 12 microsatellites). The evolutionary history of L. neilli and the relative role of vicariance and dispersal were investigated using ancestral range reconstruction analysis and Approximate Bayesian computation (ABC). Both mitochondrial and nuclear markers support a large-scale population structure of four main groups (west, centre, north and northeast) and a strong finer structure within each of these groups. A deep genealogical divergence among geographically close lineages is observed and denotes a high population fragmentation. Our findings suggest that the current phylogeographic pattern of this species results from the fragmentation of a widespread ancestral population and that vicariance has played a significant role in the evolutionary history of L. neilli. These deep vicariant events that occurred during Plio-Pleistocene are related to the formation of the Central Plain of Thailand. Consequently, the western, central, northern and northeastern groups of populations were historically isolated and should be considered as four distinct Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESUs). Conclusions/Significance: Our study confirms the benefit of using several independent genetic markers to obtain a comprehensive and reliable picture of L. neilli evolutionary history at different levels of resolution. The complex genetic structure of Leopoldamys neilli is supported by congruent mitochondrial and nuclear markers and has been influenced by the geological history of Thailand during Plio-Pleistocene. [less ▲]

Les critères de décision du patient concernant la vaccination contre la grippe AH1N1, en Belgique et en France

in Presse Médicale (2012)

This article presents a qualitative analysis of the reasons evoked by the patients to decide or not to be vaccinated against AH1N1 influenza, in France and Belgium. 58 interviews were performed with ... [more ▼]

This article presents a qualitative analysis of the reasons evoked by the patients to decide or not to be vaccinated against AH1N1 influenza, in France and Belgium. 58 interviews were performed with patient living in the region of Midi Pyrénées, France (21 interviews) and in the province of Liège, Belgium (37 interviews). Within the sample, some patients were vaccinated against AH1N1 influenza and others were not. The analysis highlights five criteria that influenced the decision to be vaccinated or not. First it is how people understand the epidemic and the threats it represents. Then came their representation about the vaccine (and its harmlessness) and their beliefs. The influence of the health professionals’ opinion and the discussion between the patient and his acquaintances were the last two criteria. These elements can be considered as criteria influencing the decision about any vaccination. They reflect the patient’s subjectivity, the patient’s perception of vaccination. Investigating these dimensions in the patient’s mind can help the practitioner to positively influence the reluctant patients. Identifying threats and received ideas should allow the doctor to correct them and accept vaccination. [less ▲]