Ion-Mobility mass spectrometry as a potential tool to assign disulfide bonds arrangements in peptides with multiple disulfide bridges.

in Analytical Chemistry (2013)

Disulfide bridges play a major role in defining the structural properties of peptides and proteins. However, the determination of the cysteine pairing is still challenging. Peptide sequences are usually ... [more ▼]

Disulfide bridges play a major role in defining the structural properties of peptides and proteins. However, the determination of the cysteine pairing is still challenging. Peptide sequences are usually achieved using MS/MS spectra of the totally reduced unfolded species but the cysteine pairing information is lost. On the other hand, MS/MS experiments performed on native folded species show complex spectra composed of non-classical ions. MS/MS alone does not allow the cysteine pairing nor the full sequence of an unknown peptide to be determined. The major goal of this work is to set up a strategy for the full structural characterization of peptides including disulfide bridges annotation in the sequence. This strategy was developed by combining Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS)and Collision Induced Dissociation(CID). It is assumed that the opening of one S-S bridges in a peptide leads to a structural evolution which results in a modification of IMS drift time. In the presence of multiple S-S bridges, the shift in arrival time will depend on which disulfide(s) has (have) been reduced and on the shape adopted by the generated species. Due to specific fragmentations observed for each species, CID experiments performed after the mobility separation could provide not only information on peptide sequence, but also on the localization of the disulfide bridges. To achieve this goal, synthetic peptides containing two disulfides were studied. The openings of the bridges were carried out following different experimental conditions such as reduction, reduction/alkylation or oxidation. Due to disulfide scrambling highlighted with the reduction approaches, oxidation of S-S bonds into cysteic acids appeared to be the best strategy. Cysteines connectivity was then unambiguously determined for the two peptides, without any disulfide scrambling interference. [less ▲]

Interactions of iturinic antibiotics with plasma membrane. Contribution of biomimetic membranes.

in Biotechnologie, Agronomie, Société et Environnement = Biotechnology, Agronomy, Society and Environment [=BASE] (2013), ACCEPTED after minor rev

Iturinic antibiotics are produced by Bacillus subtilis strains and constitute a family including iturin A, mycosubtilin and bacillomycins D, F and Lc. They are cyclic lipopeptides having -amino fatty ... [more ▼]

Iturinic antibiotics are produced by Bacillus subtilis strains and constitute a family including iturin A, mycosubtilin and bacillomycins D, F and Lc. They are cyclic lipopeptides having -amino fatty acids linked up to a peptide constituted by seven -aminoacids with an invariable LDDLLDL chiral sequence. The first three -aminoacids containing the tyrosyl residue are the same for all members. They are well-known by their strong antifungal activities but they have also antibacterial and hemolytic properties. These biological properties are due to their amphiphilic nature allowing interactions with different membrane components. Sterols found in plasma membranes are the privileged interaction partners of these lipopeptides. Moreover, the tyrosyl residue of the iturinic antibiotics seems to play an important role during their fixation to the plasma membrane, the result of which is often the cellular lysis. Within plasma membranes, there are particular regions with high sterol content. These microdomains have a different composition compared to the rest of the membrane; they are enriched in certain lipids and proteins and they are involved in many key cellular processes. Their perturbation could then have an important impact on the cell. Due to their composition, these microdomains could constitute the preferential target of iturin antibiotics. This review aims to synthetize the works related to the biological activities of iturinic antibiotics and focusses especially to their understanding at the molecular level with a discussion on the key chemical groups of the iturin antibiotics and on the potentiality of microdomains to constitute a target for these molecules [less ▲]

Experimental and numerical investigation of high-strength steel circular columns subjected to fire

in Journal of Constructional Steel Research (2013), 80

This paper presents an experimental–numerical study on the behaviour of High Strength Steel (HSS) columns at elevated temperature, both on Circular Hollow Sections (CHS) and on a Concrete Filled Tube (CFT ... [more ▼]

This paper presents an experimental–numerical study on the behaviour of High Strength Steel (HSS) columns at elevated temperature, both on Circular Hollow Sections (CHS) and on a Concrete Filled Tube (CFT). The measured yield strength of the circular sections was in the order of 820 MPa. In detail, three HSS CHS and a HSS CFT were tested under the standard ISO fire with constant eccentric compression applied load. The evolution of temperature and deformation patterns were measured by means of a comprehensive instrumentation made of thermocouples and displacement transducers. Numerical analyses were performed and compared with experimental data by employing stress–strain relationships of carbon steel at elevated temperatures provided by the Eurocodes associated to two different sets of reduction factors: i) those provided by the Eurocodes valid up to S460 steel grades; and ii) those proposed in the literature and based on tests on HSS. [less ▲]

Evaluation of a new biocompatible poly(N-(morpholino ethyl methacrylate)-based copolymer for the delivery of ruthenium oligonucleotides, targeting HPV16 E6 oncogene

in Journal of Biomedical Nanotechnology (2013), 9

This study investigates the use of a new biocompatible block copolymer poly(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate-N-(morpholino)ethyl methacrylate (PDMAEMA-b-PMEMA) for the delivery of a particular ... [more ▼]

This study investigates the use of a new biocompatible block copolymer poly(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate-N-(morpholino)ethyl methacrylate (PDMAEMA-b-PMEMA) for the delivery of a particular antisense oligonucleotide targeting E6 gene from human papilloma virus. This antisense oligonucleotide was derivatized with a polyazaaromatic RuII complex which, under visible illumination, is able to produce an irreversible crosslink with the complementary targeted sequence. The purpose of this study is to determine whether by the use of a suitable transfection agent, it is possible to increase the efficiency of the antisense oligonucleotide targeting E6 gene, named Ru-P-4. In a recent study, we showed that Oligofectamine® transfected Ru-P-4 antisense oligonucleotide failed to inhibit efficiently the growth of cervical cancer cell line SiHa, contrarily to the Ru-P-6 antisense oligonucleotide, another sequence also targeting the E6 gene. The ability of PDMAEMA-b-PMEMA to form polyplexes with optimal physicochemical characteristics was investigated first. Then the ability of the PDMAEMA-b-PMEMA/Ru-P-4 antisense oligonucleotide polyplexes to transfect two keratinocyte cell lines (SiHa and HaCat) and the capacity of polyplexes to inhibit HPV16 + cervical cancer cell growth was evaluated. PDMAEMA-b-PMEMA base polyplexes at the optimal molar ratio of polymer nitrogen atoms to DNA phosphates (N/P), were able to deliver Ru-P-4 antisense oligonucleotide and to induce a higher growth inhibition in human cervical cancer SiHa cells, compared to other formulations based on Oligofectamine®. [less ▲]

DMFSGD: A Decentralized Matrix Factorization Algorithm for Network Distance Prediction

in IEEE/ACM Transactions on Networking (2013)

The knowledge of end-to-end network distances is essential to many Internet applications. As active probing of all pairwise distances is infeasible in large-scale networks, a natural idea is to measure a ... [more ▼]

The knowledge of end-to-end network distances is essential to many Internet applications. As active probing of all pairwise distances is infeasible in large-scale networks, a natural idea is to measure a few pairs and to predict the other ones without actually measuring them. This paper formulates the prediction problem as matrix completion where the unknown entries in a pairwise distance matrix constructed from a network are to be predicted. By assuming that the distance matrix has a low-rank characteristics, the problem is solvable by lowrank approximation based on matrix factorization. The new formulation circumvents the well-known drawbacks of existing approaches based on Euclidean embedding. A new algorithm, so-called Decentralized Matrix Factorization by Stochastic Gradient Descent (DMFSGD), is proposed. By letting network nodes exchange messages with each other, the algorithm is fully decentralized and only requires each node to collect and to process local measurements, with neither explicit matrix constructions nor special nodes such as landmarks and central servers. In addition, we compared comprehensively matrix factorization and Euclidean embedding to demonstrate the suitability of the former on network distance prediction. We further studied the incorporation of a robust loss function and of non-negativity constraints. Extensive experiments on various publicly-available datasets of network delays show not only the scalability and the accuracy of our approach, but also its usability in real Internet applications. [less ▲]

A feedback control perspective on models of apoptosis signal transduction

in Chaos, Solitons & Fractals (2013)

Apoptosis is a key regulator for replacing unused, old and damaged cells. Here we analyse three models of apoptosis. We deconstruct these models by linearising the models about the life steady state and ... [more ▼]

Apoptosis is a key regulator for replacing unused, old and damaged cells. Here we analyse three models of apoptosis. We deconstruct these models by linearising the models about the life steady state and applying methods from linear control theory. This control viewpoint uncovers a decentralised control scheme with a clear separation of plant and controller and reveals that the caspase inhibitors act as decentralised phase lead controllers. © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. [less ▲]

First-principles study of transport properties in Os and OsSi

in Physical Review. B : Condensed Matter (2013), 87

Modulating absorption and postprandial handling of dietary fatty acids by structuring fat in the meal : a randomized cross-over clinical trial

in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2013), 97(1), 23-36

Identification and typing of Salmonella serotypes isolated from guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) farms in Benin during four laying seasons (2007-2010)

in Avian Pathology : Journal of the W.V.P.A (2013), 42

Genome-wide Determinants of Proviral Targeting, Clonal Abundance and Expression in Natural HTLV-1 Infection.

in PLoS Pathogens (2013), 9(3), 1003271

The regulation of proviral latency is a central problem in retrovirology. We postulate that the genomic integration site of human T lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) determines the pattern of expression ... [more ▼]

The regulation of proviral latency is a central problem in retrovirology. We postulate that the genomic integration site of human T lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) determines the pattern of expression of the provirus, which in turn determines the abundance and pathogenic potential of infected T cell clones in vivo. We recently developed a high-throughput method for the genome-wide amplification, identification and quantification of proviral integration sites. Here, we used this protocol to test two hypotheses. First, that binding sites for transcription factors and chromatin remodelling factors in the genome flanking the proviral integration site of HTLV-1 are associated with integration targeting, spontaneous proviral expression, and in vivo clonal abundance. Second, that the transcriptional orientation of the HTLV-1 provirus relative to that of the nearest host gene determines spontaneous proviral expression and in vivo clonal abundance. Integration targeting was strongly associated with the presence of a binding site for specific host transcription factors, especially STAT1 and p53. The presence of the chromatin remodelling factors BRG1 and INI1 and certain host transcription factors either upstream or downstream of the provirus was associated respectively with silencing or spontaneous expression of the provirus. Cells expressing HTLV-1 Tax protein were significantly more frequent in clones of low abundance in vivo. We conclude that transcriptional interference and chromatin remodelling are critical determinants of proviral latency in natural HTLV-1 infection. [less ▲]

The dual role of weather forecasts on changes in activity-travel behavior

in Journal of Transport Geography (2013), 28

A deeper understanding of how human activity-travel behavior is affected by various weather conditions is essential for both policy makers and traffic managers. To unravel the ambiguity in findings ... [more ▼]

A deeper understanding of how human activity-travel behavior is affected by various weather conditions is essential for both policy makers and traffic managers. To unravel the ambiguity in findings reported in the literature, the main objective of this paper is to obtain an accurate assessment of how weather forecasts trigger changes in Flemish activity-travel behavior. To this end, data were collected by means of a stated adaptation experiment, which was administered both on the Internet and via traditional paper-and-pencil questionnaires. To address the main research question of this paper, two statistical techniques were adopted. The first technique is the computation of Pearson chi-square independence tests. The second approach is the estimation of a GEE-MNL-model. The results from both techniques underscore the dual role of weather forecasts on changes in activity-travel behavior. On the one hand, the results clearly illustrate the significant effect of forecasted weather; the likelihood of changes in activity-travel behavior significantly depends on the weather forecasted. On the other hand, different methods of acquiring weather information (exposure, media source, or perceived reliability) do not impact the probability of behavioral adaptations. This duality may be partially attributable to the discrepancy that exists between weather forecasts and true traffic and roadway conditions. Therefore, the implementation of a road weather information system that is directly linked to the weather forecasts is recommended. [less ▲]

Bluetongue Virus RNA Detection by Real-Time RT-PCR in Post-Vaccination Samples from Cattle.

in Transboundary and Emerging Diseases (2013)

Bluetongue virus serotype 8 (BTV-8) was responsible for a large outbreak among European ruminant populations in 2006-2009. In spring 2008, a massive vaccination campaign was undertaken, leading to the ... [more ▼]

Bluetongue virus serotype 8 (BTV-8) was responsible for a large outbreak among European ruminant populations in 2006-2009. In spring 2008, a massive vaccination campaign was undertaken, leading to the progressive disappearance of the virus. During surveillance programmes in Western Europe in 2010-2011, a low but significant number of animals were found weakly positive using BTV-specific real-time RT-PCR, raising questions about a possible low level of virus circulation. An interference of the BTV-8 inactivated vaccine on the result of the real-time RT-PCR was also hypothesized. Several studies specifically addressed the potential association between a recent vaccination and BTV-8 RNA detection in the blood of sheep. Results were contradictory and cattles were not investigated. To enlighten this point, a large study was performed to determine the risks of detection of bluetongue vaccine-associated RNA in the blood and spleen of cattle using real-time RT-PCR. Overall, the results presented clearly demonstrate that vaccine viral RNA can reach the blood circulation in sufficient amounts to be detected by real-time RT-PCR in cattle. This BTV-8 vaccine RNA carriage appears as short lasting. [less ▲]

Mechanobiological modeling can explain orthodontic tooth movement: three case studies.

in Journal of Biomechanics (2013), 46(3), 470-7

Progress in medicine and higher expectation of quality of life has led to a higher demand for several dental and medical treatments. This increases the occurrence of situations in which orthodontic ... [more ▼]

Progress in medicine and higher expectation of quality of life has led to a higher demand for several dental and medical treatments. This increases the occurrence of situations in which orthodontic treatment is complicated by pathological conditions, medical therapies and drugs. Together with experiments, computer models might lead to a better understanding of the effect of pathologies and medical treatment on tooth movement. This study uses a previously presented mechanobiological model of orthodontic tooth displacement to investigate the effect of pathologies and (medical) therapies on the result of orthodontic treatment by means of three clinically relevant case studies looking at the effect of estrogen deficiency, the effect of OPG injections and the influence of fluoride intake. When less estrogen was available, the model predicted bone loss and a rise in the number of osteoclasts present at the compression side, and a faster bone resorption. These effects were also observed experimentally. Experiments disagreed on the effect of estrogen deficiency on bone formation, while the mechanobiological model predicted very little difference between the pathological and the non-pathological case at formation sites. The model predicted a decrease in tooth movement after OPG injections or fluoride intake, which was also observed in experiments. Although more experiments and model analysis is needed to quantitatively validate the mechanobiological model used in this study, its ability to conceptually describe several pathological conditions is an important measure for its validity. [less ▲]

Metabolic and structural connectivity within the default mode network relates to working memory performance in young healthy adults

in NeuroImage (2013)

Studies of functional connectivity suggest that the default mode network (DMN) might be relevant for cognitive functions. Here, we examined metabolic and structural connectivity between major DMN nodes ... [more ▼]

Studies of functional connectivity suggest that the default mode network (DMN) might be relevant for cognitive functions. Here, we examined metabolic and structural connectivity between major DMN nodes, the posterior cingulate (PCC) and medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC), in relation to normal working memory (WM). DMN was captured using independent component analysis of [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) data from 35 young healthy adults (27.1±5.1 years). Metabolic connectivity, a correlation between FDG uptake in PCC and MPFC, was examined in groups of subjects with (relative to median) low (n=18) and high (n=17) performance on digit span backward test as an index of verbal WM. In addition, fiber tractography based on PCC and MPFC nodes as way points was performed in a subset of subjects. FDG uptake in the DMN nodes did not differ between high and low performers. However, significantly (p=0.01) lower metabolic connectivity was found in the group of low performers. Furthermore, as compared to high performers, low performers showed lower density of the left superior cingulate bundle. Verbal WM performance is related to metabolic and structural connectivity within the DMN in young healthy adults. Metabolic connectivity as quantified with FDG-PET might be a sensitive marker of the normal variability in some cognitive functions. [less ▲]

Experiments with the interior-point method for solving large scale Optimal Power Flow problems

in Electric Power Systems Research (2013), 95

This paper reports extensive results obtained with the interior-point method (IPM) for nonlinear programmes (NLPs) stemming from large-scale and severely constrained classical Optimal Power Flow (OPF) and ... [more ▼]

This paper reports extensive results obtained with the interior-point method (IPM) for nonlinear programmes (NLPs) stemming from large-scale and severely constrained classical Optimal Power Flow (OPF) and Security-Constrained Optimal Power Flow (SCOPF) problems. The paper discusses transparently the problems encountered such as convergence reliability and speed issues of the method. [less ▲]

Macrocyle-embedded b-lactams as novel inhibitors of the Penicillin Binding Protein PBP2a from MRSA

in European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry (2013), 64

Fibromyalgie: un syndrome d'Ehlers-Danlos de type hypermobile qui s'ignore?

in Revue Médicale de Liège (2013), 68(1), 22-4

Some patients suffering from fibromyalgia present with clinical signs and alterations in the histopathology, immunohistochemistry and ultrastructure of the dermis similar to the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome ... [more ▼]

Some patients suffering from fibromyalgia present with clinical signs and alterations in the histopathology, immunohistochemistry and ultrastructure of the dermis similar to the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, hypermobile type (EDSH). Some types of fibromyalgia possibly represent an undiagnosed EDSH. [less ▲]

Analysis of calcium-induced effects on the conformation of fengycin

in Spectrochimica Acta Part A : Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy (2013), 110

A combination of CD, FT-IR, NMR and fluorescence spectroscopic techniques was applied to elucidate the conformation of fengycin, a natural lipopeptide with antifungal and eliciting activities, in a ... [more ▼]

A combination of CD, FT-IR, NMR and fluorescence spectroscopic techniques was applied to elucidate the conformation of fengycin, a natural lipopeptide with antifungal and eliciting activities, in a membrane-mimicking environment and to investigate the effect of calcium ions on the conformation. We mainly observed that fengycin adopts a turn conformation and that the side chain of glutamate residues plays a key role on the stabilization of the peptide ring backbone conformation. More particularly, the binding of calcium ions by the carboxylic moieties has a consequence on the environment of the tyrosine residues. Our data suggest also an arrangement of fengycin molecules into “-sheet like micelles” in a membrane-mimicking environment and the enhancement of this aggregating effect in presence of calcium ions. The modulation of the fengycin conformation by the environmental conditions may influence its biological properties. [less ▲]

Fast microwave assisted extraction of rotenone for its quantification in seeds of yam bean (Pachyrhizus sp.)

in Journal of Separation Science (2013), 36

The aim of this study was to find if fast microwave assisted extraction could be an alternative to the conventional soxhlet extraction for the quantification of rotenone in yam bean seeds by solid phase ... [more ▼]

The aim of this study was to find if fast microwave assisted extraction could be an alternative to the conventional soxhlet extraction for the quantification of rotenone in yam bean seeds by solid phase extraction and HPLC-UV. For this purpose, an experimental design was used to determine the optimal conditions of the microwave extraction. Then the values of the quantification on three accessions from two different species of yam bean seeds were compared using the two different kinds of extraction. A microwave extraction of 11 min at 55°C using methanol/dichloromethane (50:50) allowed rotenone extraction either equivalently or more efficiently than the 8h soxhlet extraction method and was less sensitive to moisture content. The selectivity, precision, trueness, accuracy and limit of quantification of themethod with microwave extraction were also demonstrated. [less ▲]

Influence of the 524-VAAEIL-529 sequence of annexins A6 in their interfacial behavior and interaction with lipid monolayers.

in Journal of Colloid & Interface Science (2013), In Press

Annexin A6 (AnxA6), a calcium- and membrane-binding protein, is expressed in mammalian cells in two isoforms: AnxA6-1 and AnxA6-2, the latter lacking the 524- VAAEIL-529 sequence at the start of repeat 7 ... [more ▼]

Annexin A6 (AnxA6), a calcium- and membrane-binding protein, is expressed in mammalian cells in two isoforms: AnxA6-1 and AnxA6-2, the latter lacking the 524- VAAEIL-529 sequence at the start of repeat 7. The different intracellular localization of these two isoforms suggests distinct function in membrane dynamics. The aim of this work was to analyze the behavior of AnxA6 isoforms at the air/water interface alone and in the presence of membrane mimicking lipid monolayers. Using Langmuir technique showed that AnxA6-2 was less adsorbed to the neat air-water interface than AnxA6-1 at acidic pH and minor differences in their PM-IRRAS spectra were observed. Both isoforms exhibited similar behavior towards cholesterol monolayer. However, the interactions of AnxA6-2 with cholesterol ester monolayer were most favorable compared to AnxA6-1. Our experimental data are discussed in relation with the different intracellular localization of the two isoforms and with our constructed model of AnxA6-2 with the known crystal structure of AnxA6-1 showing the persistence of the 516-529 α- helix in AnxA6-2 despite the absence of the 524-VAAEIL-529 sequence. [less ▲]

Recommendations for the repair, the lining or the strengthening of concrete slabs or pavements with bonded cement-based material overlays

in Materials and Structures (2013), 46

The recommendations presented in this publication are inspired by the State of the Art Report edited by the RILEM technical committee TC 193 RLS Bonded cement-based material overlays for the repair, the ... [more ▼]

The recommendations presented in this publication are inspired by the State of the Art Report edited by the RILEM technical committee TC 193 RLS Bonded cement-based material overlays for the repair, the lining or the strengthening of slabs and pavements. The objective is to lay out all the practical aspects to be considered in the design of concrete overlays: bonded concrete overlay process, assessment of the existing structure, surface preparation, overlay materials, design methods, construction procedure and quality control/assurance (QC/QA) system, and maintenance. [less ▲]

Design of growth-dependent biosensors based on destabilized GFP for the detection of physiological behavior of Escherichia coli in heterogeneous bioreactors

in Biotechnology Progress (2013), 29(2), 553-563

In this work we present the design and characterization of GFP-based reporter systems designed in order to describe cellular activity in ‘complex’, heterogeneous bioreactors. The reporter systems consist ... [more ▼]

In this work we present the design and characterization of GFP-based reporter systems designed in order to describe cellular activity in ‘complex’, heterogeneous bioreactors. The reporter systems consist of Escherichia coli strains carrying growth dependent promoters fused to genes expressing stable and unstable variants of GFP, respectively. The response of Escherichia coli cells to transient exposure to glucose was studied in a two-compartment scale down bioreactor (SDR) consisting of a stirred tank reactor (STR) connected to plug-flow reactor (PFR). Such a SDR system is employed to mimic the situation that often encountered in large-scale, fed-batch bioreactors. The response of E. coli coli to oxygen-poor and glucose-rich regions was simulated by continuously pumping E. coli cells from STR to the PFR. A concentrated glucose pulse (400 g/L) was consecutively added at the entrance of the PFR and samples were taken from PFR. The GFP expressions were significantly marked after 10 hours of culture in STR (control reactor) and SDR, whereas, growth rates were rather similar. Additional experiments in chemostat (D=0.14 h-1) with programmed glucose perturbation (30 g/L, frequency: 100/900 s) suggested that the activities of the promoter are linked with the substrate limitation signal. Taken together with immunoblot analysis, we suppose protein leakage is responsible for the overexpression of fis and the related promoters, such as rrnB in this case study, but additional works are required in order to confirm this relationship. Our finding are of great interest for industrial application since the GFP signal can be detected very early during the culture and is related to relevant physiological changes. This investigation is useful for a better understanding of the fast dynamic phenomena occurring in heterogeneous large-scale bioreactors. [less ▲]

Genetic variability of the mid-infrared prediction of lactoferrin content in milk for Walloon Holstein first-parity cows

in Livestock Science (2013), 151(2-3), 158-162

The objective of this study was to assess the genetic variability of the mid-infrared prediction of lactoferrin content in milk (pLF) in Holstein first-parity cows. Variance components were estimated by ... [more ▼]

The objective of this study was to assess the genetic variability of the mid-infrared prediction of lactoferrin content in milk (pLF) in Holstein first-parity cows. Variance components were estimated by Average Information Restricted Maximum Likelihood using a single-trait test-day random regression animal model. The dataset included 395,287 test-day records from 67,178 cows in 1190 herds from the Walloon Region of Belgium. Average pLF was 164.89. mg/L and the standard deviation was 76.07. mg/L. Frequency distribution for pLF was slightly asymmetrical, and pLF seemed to increase almost linearly all along the first lactation after a sharp decrease in early lactation. Genetic variance of pLF increased with days in milk within lactation while the permanent environmental variance was the highest in early lactation, then decreased to become lower than genetic variance at 50 days in milk, and finally increased in the last lactation stages. The pLF was a moderately heritable trait. Daily heritability of pLF was the lowest at 5 days in milk (0.19), then increased to reach a maximum at 260 days in milk (0.44), and finally decreased for the last stages of lactation (0.35 at 365 days in milk). Results from this study indicated that pLF is variable and heritable over the lactation and therefore it could be changed by genetic selection. © 2012 Elsevier B.V. [less ▲]

The fast evolution of a crustal hot zone at the end of a transpressional regime: The Saint-Tropez peninsula granites and related dykes (Maures Massif, SE France)

in Lithos (2013), 162-163

The community of Hymenoptera parasitizing necrophagous Diptera in an urban biotope

in Journal of Insect Science [=JIS] (2013)

Most reports published in the field of forensic entomology are focused on Diptera and neglect the Hymenoptera community. However, Hymenoptera are part of the entomofaunal colonisation of a dead body. The ... [more ▼]

Most reports published in the field of forensic entomology are focused on Diptera and neglect the Hymenoptera community. However, Hymenoptera are part of the entomofaunal colonisation of a dead body. The use of Hymenoptera parasitoids in forensic entomology can be relevant to evaluate the time of death. Hymenoptera parasitoids of the larvae and pupae of flies may play an important role in the estimation of the post-mortem period, because their time of attack is often restricted to a small, well-defined windows of time in the development of the host insect. However, these parasitoids can interfere with the developmental times of colonising Diptera, and therefore a better understanding of their ecology is needed. The work reported here monitored the presence of adult Hymenoptera parasitoids on decaying pig carcasses in an urban biotope during the summer season (from May to September). Six families and six species were recorded in the field: Aspilota fuscicornis Haliday, Alysia manducator Panzer, Nasonia vitripennis Walker, Tachinaephagus zealandicus Ashmead, Trichopria sp., and Figites sp. In the laboratory, five species emerged from pupae collected in the field: Trichopria sp., Figites sp., A. manducator, N. vitripennis, and T. zealandicus. These five species colonise a broad spectrum of Diptera hosts, including those species associated with decomposing carcasses: Calliphoridae, Muscidae, Fanniidae, and Sarcophagidae [less ▲]

Video multitracking of fish behaviour: a review and future perspectives

in Fish & Fisheries (2013), 14(2), 186-204

With the development of digital imaging techniques over the last decade, there are now new opportunities to study complex behavioural patterns in fish (e.g. schooling behaviour) and to track a very large ... [more ▼]

With the development of digital imaging techniques over the last decade, there are now new opportunities to study complex behavioural patterns in fish (e.g. schooling behaviour) and to track a very large number of individuals. These new technologies and methods provide valuable information to fundamental and applied science disciplines such as ethology, animal sociology, animal psychology, veterinary sciences, animal welfare sciences, statistical physics, pharmacology, as well as neuro- and ecotoxicology. This paper presents a review of fish video multitracking techniques. It describes the possibilities of tracking individuals and groups at different scales, but also outlines the advantages and limitations of the detection methods. The problem of occlusions, during which errors of individual identifications are very frequent, is underlined. This paper summarises different approaches to improving the quality of individual identification, notably by the development of three-dimensional tracking, image analysis and probabilistic applications. Finally, implications for fish research and future directions are presented. [less ▲]

Parathormone and bone-specific alkaline phosphatase for the follow-up of bone turnover in hemodialysis patients : Is it so simple?

in Clinica Chimica Acta (2013), 417

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is associated with mineral and bone disorders (MBD). International guidelines suggest that levels of serum parathormone (PTH) or bone-specific alkaline phosphatase ... [more ▼]

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is associated with mineral and bone disorders (MBD). International guidelines suggest that levels of serum parathormone (PTH) or bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (b-ALP) can be used to evaluate MBD in dialysis patients. The evidence remains moderate and based on transversal studies. <br />Methods: We retrospectively investigated the variations of PTH (ΔPTH) and b-ALP (Δb-ALP) serum concentrations over a short (6-weeks) and a long (one-year) period in a monocentric hemodialysis population. The proportion of patients reaching the critical difference (CD) (50% for PTH and 25% for b-ALP) was calculated. <br />Results: Seventy-seven patientswere included. A significant correlation between PTHand b-ALP levelswas found at baseline (r=0.51). By contrast, no correlation was observed between ΔPTH and Δb-ALP over a 6-week interval (r=0.07). The CD for PTH and b-ALP was reached by 19 and 11 patients, respectively, with 2 patients showing consistent variations of both biomarkers. One year later, measurements were repeated in 48 survivors. <br />No correlation was found between ΔPTH and Δb-ALP (r=0.27). The CD for PTH or b-ALP was reached by 24 patients and 28 patients, respectively, with 6 patients (12.5%) showing opposite results for both biomarkers. <br />Conclusion: This study shows the lack of correlation between ΔPTH and Δb-ALP over time in patients under chronic hemodialysis. [less ▲]

Dispersion of multiwalled carbon nanotubes in water by lignin

in Journal of Materials Science (2013), 48(14), 4962-4964

Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) can be stably dispersed in water with small amount of lignin. One-step dispersion in the 20.0 g/L concentration range is achieved at room temperature with excellent ... [more ▼]

Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) can be stably dispersed in water with small amount of lignin. One-step dispersion in the 20.0 g/L concentration range is achieved at room temperature with excellent electrical properties of MWCNT. Lignin is depicted to act as an anti-static agent. [less ▲]

Littérature scientifique et formation à l'information, la situation des bioingénieurs à Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech (ULg).

in Biotechnologie, Agronomie, Société et Environnement = Biotechnology, Agronomy, Society and Environment [=BASE] (2013), 17(1),

This article is written from a doctoral work on the role of scientific literature in the bioengineers' teaching at Gembloux. It is essentially a summary including recent advances in information literacy ... [more ▼]

This article is written from a doctoral work on the role of scientific literature in the bioengineers' teaching at Gembloux. It is essentially a summary including recent advances in information literacy. Data analysis indicates that the bioengineers working at Gembloux publish at least as much as other scientists in Belgium, they preferentially publish articles in journals with impact factor, they read preferentially articles and they use all electronic resources available to them. Their fields of research, and reading, goes beyond the strict sense of agronomy. The courses provided at Gembloux are based on the concept of information literacy. It describes a set of skills that allow individuals to recognize an information need and enable them to locate, valuate and use needed information. The Information Literacy concept has evolved over the last two decades. Information literacy education is going well beyond the library. The skills involved are also social and cultural skills besides intellectual skills. They include media and new information technologies without being reduced to technical or technological skills. At Gembloux, the information literacy education, is registered in student's schedule, integrates production of scientific papers and is based on a methodological approach and his own didactic and specific contents. [less ▲]

Influence de la plante hôte sur les stades de développement de Borocera cajani (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae)

in Entomologie Faunistique = Faunistic Entomology (2013), 66

Borocera cajani Vinson (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae) is a silk moth endemic to Madagascar that is currently used to produce silk textiles. This silk moth is polyphagous and colonizes forests situated in ... [more ▼]

Borocera cajani Vinson (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae) is a silk moth endemic to Madagascar that is currently used to produce silk textiles. This silk moth is polyphagous and colonizes forests situated in the central highlands, mainly constituted by Tapia trees (Uapaca bojeri). Two host plants are commonly used by the caterpillar of this moth species: Tapia and Voafotsy (Aphloia theiformis). In this work we have evaluated parameters of different stage (survival rate, development duration, weight and size, fecundity…) of B. cajani on both host plants. We have observed a 30% higher survival rate on U. bojeri. Larval and pupae duration were shorter on U. bojeri (64,8 ± 1,5 days) than on A. theiformis (87,4 ± 2,0 days). Cocoons were bigger when obtained from larvae fed on U. bojeri. This plant is therefore better for the development of B. cajani and should be used in intensive rearing of this silk moth. [less ▲]

The relevance of food composition data for nutrition surveys in rural Tibet: pilot study in the context of Kashin-Beck Disease

in Biotechnologie, Agronomie, Société et Environnement = Biotechnology, Agronomy, Society and Environment [=BASE] (2013), 17(1), 32-42

Kashin-Beck disease (KBD) is an endemic and chronic osteochondropathy. This disease principally occurs in the Tibet Autonomous Region and in several provinces of the People’s Republic of China. The ... [more ▼]

Kashin-Beck disease (KBD) is an endemic and chronic osteochondropathy. This disease principally occurs in the Tibet Autonomous Region and in several provinces of the People’s Republic of China. The etiology of the disease remains obscure although environmental factors are assumed to be involved. Diet, in particular, differentiates the rural community, affected by KBD, from the other communities (nomads and city-dwellers), who remain unaffected. In anticipation of a nutrition survey, this study aimed to measure the mineral content (Ca, P, Mg, Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, Ni, Se, Al, Sr, Mo, Cd, As, Pb, Hg, Cr, and Co) of eight Tibetan staple foods and to compare the results against two food composition tables (FCTs). Foods were sampled in twenty households selected from both an endemic and a non-endemic area of rural Tibet. Ten minerals involved in bone metabolism were measured using atomic and molecular spectrometric methods. Results revealed that a very limited number of food/constituent pairs showed a variation in mineral composition during a single year of testing for a given region. In addition, results showed significant differences in mineral content between the endemic and the non-endemic area, especially for wheat flour. Following our analysis of the mineral content of the Tibetan food samples, results were statistically compared with similar foods listed in two food composition tables: the USDA National Nutrient Database (USDA Food Search for Windows, Version 1.0, database version SR23), and the China Food Composition Table (book 1, 2nd edition). More than 50 to 60% of p-values < 0.05 were highlighted, suggesting the inappropriateness of using FCTs as a reference for nutrition surveys in rural Tibet, and emphasizing the need for analysis of traditional foods. Differences were found to be more or less marked depending on the element considered, and calcium content seemed to show the greatest difference. Although it is obviously too early for definite conclusions to be reached (insufficient number of samples by food and insufficient number of foods analyzed), it seems that the present pilot-study indicates significant discrepancies between measured and tabulated values of the mineral content of certain foods. A more complete survey would therefore seem mandatory. [less ▲]

On micromechanical damage modeling in geomechanics: influence of numerical integration scheme

in International Journal of Computational & Applied Mathematics (2013), 246

Tunnel excavations in deep rocks provide stress perturbations which initiate diffuse and/or localized damage propagation in the material. This damage phenomenon can lead to significant irreversible ... [more ▼]

Tunnel excavations in deep rocks provide stress perturbations which initiate diffuse and/or localized damage propagation in the material. This damage phenomenon can lead to significant irreversible deformations and changes in rock properties. In this paper, we propose to model such behavior by considering a micromechanically-based damage approach. The resulting micromechanical model, which also accounts for initial stress, is described and assessed through the numerical analysis of a synthetic tunnel drilling in Opalinus Clay. A particular emphasis is put on the numerical integration of the model. In particular, an appropriate choice of the latter is required to ensure the numerical stability and a confident prediction of excavation damaged zone around tunnels. [less ▲]

Design and validation of a real-time spiking-neural-network decoder for brain–machine interfaces

in Journal of Neural Engineering (2013), 10(3),

Objective. Cortically-controlled motor prostheses aim to restore functions lost to neurological disease and injury. Several proof of concept demonstrations have shown encouraging results, but barriers to ... [more ▼]

Objective. Cortically-controlled motor prostheses aim to restore functions lost to neurological disease and injury. Several proof of concept demonstrations have shown encouraging results, but barriers to clinical translation still remain. In particular, intracortical prostheses must satisfy stringent power dissipation constraints so as not to damage cortex. Approach. One possible solution is to use ultra-low power neuromorphic chips to decode neural signals for these intracortical implants. The first step is to explore in simulation the feasibility of translating decoding algorithms for brain–machine interface (BMI) applications into spiking neural networks (SNNs). Main results. Here we demonstrate the validity of the approach by implementing an existing Kalman-filter-based decoder in a simulated SNN using the Neural Engineering Framework (NEF), a general method for mapping control algorithms onto SNNs. To measure this system's robustness and generalization, we tested it online in closed-loop BMI experiments with two rhesus monkeys. Across both monkeys, a Kalman filter implemented using a 2000-neuron SNN has comparable performance to that of a Kalman filter implemented using standard floating point techniques. Significance. These results demonstrate the tractability of SNN implementations of statistical signal processing algorithms on different monkeys and for several tasks, suggesting that a SNN decoder, implemented on a neuromorphic chip, may be a feasible computational platform for low-power fully-implanted prostheses. The validation of this closed-loop decoder system and the demonstration of its robustness and generalization hold promise for SNN implementations on an ultra-low power neuromorphic chip using the NEF. [less ▲]

Allogreffe de cellules souches hématopoïétiques chez le patient âgé : jusqu'à quel âge ?

in Revue Médicale de Liège (2013), 68(1), 38-43

In the last decades, the upper age limit for allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation has increased from 50-60 years to 70-75 years of age, in part due to the development of allogeneic ... [more ▼]

In the last decades, the upper age limit for allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation has increased from 50-60 years to 70-75 years of age, in part due to the development of allogeneic transplantation following reducedintensity or truly nonmyeloablative conditioning. This review describes challenges and opportunities of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation in the elderly. [less ▲]

Investigation of advanced materials for fusion alpha particle diagnostics

in Fusion Engineering & Design (2013)

Fusion alpha particle diagnostics for ITER remain a challenging task. Standard escaping alpha particle detectors in present tokamaks are not applicable to ITER and techniques suitable for fusion reactor ... [more ▼]

Fusion alpha particle diagnostics for ITER remain a challenging task. Standard escaping alpha particle detectors in present tokamaks are not applicable to ITER and techniques suitable for fusion reactor conditions need further research and development [1,2]. The activation technique is widely used for the characterization of high fluence rates inside neutron reactors. Tokamak applications of the neutron activation technique are already well developed [3] whereas measuring escaping ions using this technique is a novel fusion plasma diagnostic development. Despite low alpha particle fluence levels in present tokamaks, promising results using activation technique combined with ultra-low level gamma-ray spectrometry [4] were achieved before in JET [5,6]. In this research work, we use new advanced detector materials. The material properties beneficial for alpha induced activation are (i) moderate neutron cross-sections (ii) ultra-high purity which reduces neutron-induced background activation and (iii) isotopic tailoring which increases the activation yield of the measured activation product. Two samples were obtained from GERDA[7], an experiment aimed at measuring the neutrinoless double beta decay in 76Ge. These samples, made of highly pure (9 N) germanium highly enriched to 87% in isotope Ge-76, were irradiated in real D-D fusion plasma conditions inside the TEXTOR tokamak. Comparison of the calculated and the experimentally measured activity shows good agreement. Compared to previously investigated high temperature ceramic material [8], this candidate detector offers better prospects for signal to background S/B ratio, energy resolution and particle selectivity due to a unique alpha particle signature. Applicability to ITER is discussed. Finally, research needs for further development of this diagnostic technique are outlined. © 2013. [less ▲]

Comparative analyses of salivary proteins from three aphid species

in Insect Molecular Biology (2013), Accepted pending revision

L'impatto del Gaio veronese sull'insegnamento del diritto romano in Belgio

in Index : Quaderni Camerti di Studi Romanistici = International Survey of Roman Law (2013), 41

1817 is the year when the palimpsest of the Institutes of Gaius was discovered. It was also the year of the founding of the universities of Liège, Ghent and Louvain. But the teaching of Roman Law has not ... [more ▼]

1817 is the year when the palimpsest of the Institutes of Gaius was discovered. It was also the year of the founding of the universities of Liège, Ghent and Louvain. But the teaching of Roman Law has not equally profited of this discovery in all universities. The great Professor Leopold August Warnkönig has played a very important role in this respect: He was professor of roman law successively in Liège, Louvain and Ghent. [less ▲]

Policy Implications of Changing Longevity

in CESifo Economic Studies (2013), 59(4),

Strongyloidiasis and Infective Dermatitis Alter Human T Lymphotropic Virus-1 Clonality in vivo.

in PLoS Pathogens (2013), 9(4), 1003263

Human T-lymphotropic Virus-1 (HTLV-1) is a retrovirus that persists lifelong by driving clonal proliferation of infected T-cells. HTLV-1 causes a neuroinflammatory disease and adult T-cell leukemia ... [more ▼]

Human T-lymphotropic Virus-1 (HTLV-1) is a retrovirus that persists lifelong by driving clonal proliferation of infected T-cells. HTLV-1 causes a neuroinflammatory disease and adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma. Strongyloidiasis, a gastrointestinal infection by the helminth Strongyloides stercoralis, and Infective Dermatitis associated with HTLV-1 (IDH), appear to be risk factors for the development of HTLV-1 related diseases. We used high-throughput sequencing to map and quantify the insertion sites of the provirus in order to monitor the clonality of the HTLV-1-infected T-cell population (i.e. the number of distinct clones and abundance of each clone). A newly developed biodiversity estimator called "DivE" was used to estimate the total number of clones in the blood. We found that the major determinant of proviral load in all subjects without leukemia/lymphoma was the total number of HTLV-1-infected clones. Nevertheless, the significantly higher proviral load in patients with strongyloidiasis or IDH was due to an increase in the mean clone abundance, not to an increase in the number of infected clones. These patients appear to be less capable of restricting clone abundance than those with HTLV-1 alone. In patients co-infected with Strongyloides there was an increased degree of oligoclonal expansion and a higher rate of turnover (i.e. appearance and disappearance) of HTLV-1-infected clones. In Strongyloides co-infected patients and those with IDH, proliferation of the most abundant HTLV-1(+) T-cell clones is independent of the genomic environment of the provirus, in sharp contrast to patients with HTLV-1 infection alone. This implies that new selection forces are driving oligoclonal proliferation in Strongyloides co-infection and IDH. We conclude that strongyloidiasis and IDH increase the risk of development of HTLV-1-associated diseases by increasing the rate of infection of new clones and the abundance of existing HTLV-1(+) clones. [less ▲]

1,4,2-Benzo/pyridodithiazine 1,1-Dioxides Structurally Related to the ATP-Sensitive Potassium Channel Openers 1,2,4-Benzo/pyridothiadiazine 1,1-Dioxides Exert a Myorelaxant Activity Linked to a Distinct Mechanism of Action

in Journal of Medicinal Chemistry (2013), 56

Impaired short-term memory for order in adults with dyslexia

in Research in Developmental Disabilities (2013), 34

Verbal short-term memory (STM) deficits are consistently associated with dyslexia, but the nature of these deficits remains poorly understood. This study used the distinction between item and order ... [more ▼]

Verbal short-term memory (STM) deficits are consistently associated with dyslexia, but the nature of these deficits remains poorly understood. This study used the distinction between item and order retention processes to achieve a better understanding of STM deficits in adults with dyslexia. STM for item information has been shown to depend on the quality of underlying phonological representations, and hence should be impaired in dyslexia, which is characterized by poorly developed phonological representations. On the other hand, STM for order information is considered to reflect core STM processes, which are independent from language processing. Thirty adults with dyslexia and thirty control participants matched for age, education, vocabulary, and IQ were presented STM tasks, which distinguished item and order STM capacities. We observed not only impaired order STM in adults with dyslexia, but this impairment was independent of item STM impairment. This study shows that adults with dyslexia present a deficit in core verbal STM processes, a deficit which cannot be accounted for by the language processing difficulties that characterize dyslexia. Moreover, these results support recent theoretical accounts considering independent order STM and item STM processes, with a potentially causal involvement of order STM processes in reading acquisition. [less ▲]

Passive designs and strategies for low-cost housing using simulation-based optimization and different thermal comfort criteria

in Journal of Building Performance Simulation [=JBPS] (2013)

An optimum design of low-cost housing offers low-income urban inhabitants great opportunities to obtain a shelter at an affordable price and acceptable indoor thermal conditions. In this paper, the design ... [more ▼]

An optimum design of low-cost housing offers low-income urban inhabitants great opportunities to obtain a shelter at an affordable price and acceptable indoor thermal conditions. In this paper, the design and operation of a low-cost dwelling were numerically optimized using a simulation-based approach. Three multi-objective cost functions including construction cost, thermal comfort performance and 50-year operating cost were applied for naturally ventilated and air-conditioned buildings. Thermal environment inside the house was controlled and assessed by two thermal comfort models. Optimization problems which consist of 18 design parameters and 6 ventilation strategies were examined by two population-based probabilistic optimization algorithms (particle swarm optimization and hybrid algorithm). Optimum designs corresponding to each objective function, differences in optimal solutions, energy saving by the adaptive comfort approach and optimization effectiveness were outlined. The optimization method used in this paper shows a considerable potential of comfort improvement, energy saving and operating cost reduction. [less ▲]

Optimization of the formation of vinyldithiins, therapeutic compounds from garlic

in European Food Research & Technology (2013)

Allyl sulfides, ajoenes and vinyldithiins are the three main groups of volatile organosulfur compounds that are formed when garlic is crushed. The manner garlic is processed (nature of the extraction ... [more ▼]

Allyl sulfides, ajoenes and vinyldithiins are the three main groups of volatile organosulfur compounds that are formed when garlic is crushed. The manner garlic is processed (nature of the extraction medium, temperature…) has a major influence on their relative proportion and the amounts produced. It has been proven recently that the vinyldithiins are at the origin of garlic’s capacity to prevent adipocytes development. Their incorporation in garlic-based nutraceuticals is thus particularly interesting. In this context, this work aims to optimize the production of vinyldithiins from garlic. After having determined the best garlic origin (Spanish) and the best oil for the extraction (olive or sunflower oil), the extraction conditions were optimized (1/2 (w/w garlic oil), 37 °C, 6 h) and 133 mg of vinyldithiins was obtained from 100 g of fresh garlic. Carrying out the extraction under microwave irradiation allowed increasing the yield 3.6-fold (yield 486 mg of vinyldithiins from 100 g of fresh garlic). This study may also contribute to the development of new garlic derived high value products by enhancing the comprehension of their formation. [less ▲]

Effects of surfactin on membrane models displaying lipid phase separation.

in Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (2013), 1828(2), 801-815

Surfactin, a bacterial amphiphilic lipopeptide is attracting more and more attention in view of its bioactive properties which are in relation with its ability to interact with lipids of biological ... [more ▼]

Surfactin, a bacterial amphiphilic lipopeptide is attracting more and more attention in view of its bioactive properties which are in relation with its ability to interact with lipids of biological membranes. In this work, we investigated the effect of surfactin on membrane structure using model of membranes, vesicles as well as supported bilayers, presenting coexistence of fluid-disordered (DOPC) and gel (DPPC) phases. A range of complementary methods was used including AFM, ellipsometry, dynamic light scattering, fluorescence measurements of Laurdan, DPH, calcein release, and octadecylrhodamine B dequenching. Our findings demonstrated that surfactin concentration is critical for its effect on the membrane. The results suggest that the presence of rigid domains can play an essential role in the first step of surfactin insertion and that surfactin interacts both with the membrane polar heads and the acyl chain region. A mechanism for the surfactin lipid membrane interaction, consisting of three sequential structural and morphological changes, is proposed. At concentrations below the CMC, surfactin inserted at the boundary between gel and fluid lipid domains, inhibited phase separation and stiffened the bilayer without global morphological change of liposomes. At concentrations close to CMC, surfactin solubilized the fluid phospholipid phase and increased order in the remainder of the lipid bilayer. At higher surfactin concentrations, both the fluid and the rigid bilayer structures were dissolved into mixed micelles and other structures presenting a wide size distribution. [less ▲]

A root chicory MADS-box sequence and the Arabidopsis flowering repressor FLC share common features that suggest conserved function in vernalization and devernalization responses

in The Plant Journal (2013)

Root chicory (Cichorium intybus var. sativum) is a biennial crop, but is harvested for root inulin at the end of the first growing season before flowering. However, cold temperatures might vernalize seeds ... [more ▼]

Root chicory (Cichorium intybus var. sativum) is a biennial crop, but is harvested for root inulin at the end of the first growing season before flowering. However, cold temperatures might vernalize seeds or plantlets, leading to incidental early flowering and hence understanding the molecular basis of vernalization is important. A MADS-box sequence was isolated by RT-PCR and named FLC-LIKE1 (CiFL1) because of its phylogenetic positioning within the same clade as the floral repressor Arabidopsis FLOWERING LOCUS C (AtFLC). Moreover, overexpression of CiFL1 in Arabidopsis caused late flowering and prevented up-regulation of the AtFLC target FLOWERING LOCUS T gene by photoperiod, suggesting functional conservation between root chicory and Arabidopsis. Like AtFLC in Arabidopsis, CiFL1 was repressed during vernalization of seeds or plantlets of chicory, but repression of CiFL1 was unstable whether the post-vernalization temperature was favorable to flowering or whether it devernalized the plants. Instability of CiFL1 repression might be linked to bienniality of root chicory versus the annual life cycle of Arabidopsis. However, reactivation of AtFLC was also observed in Arabidopsis when a high temperature treatment was given straight after seed vernalization, erasing the promotive effect of cold on flowering. Cold-induced downregulation of a MADS-box floral repressor and its reactivation by high temperature thus appear as conserved features of the vernalization and devernalization responses in distant species.This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. [less ▲]

Behaviours Associated with Acoustic Communication in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

in PLoS ONE (2013), 8(4), 61467

Approche du surpoids et de l’obésité en milieu scolaire (2ème partie – Exemple pratique)

in Revue de l'Education Physique (2013), 53(1), 11-23

L'ancrage théorique de ce projet didactique a été présenté dans une première partie (http://hdl.handle.net/2268/127970). Dans la partie théorique, nous avons rappelé les notions principales de la ... [more ▼]

L'ancrage théorique de ce projet didactique a été présenté dans une première partie (http://hdl.handle.net/2268/127970). Dans la partie théorique, nous avons rappelé les notions principales de la problématique du surpoids et de l'obésité. Nous avons aussi souligné que, en éducation physique, il convenait de proposer des leçons dans lesquelles les élèves peuvent s'engager dans un travail de réflexion susceptible de les amener à devenir des citoyens responsables de leur corps sans porter préjudice à leur taux d'activité physique réel. Dans cette seconde partie, nous proposons une séance type dont l'objectif consiste donc à améliorer les connaissances des élèves sur la problématique du surpoids tout en leur permettant d'être actifs. Nous avons choisi une leçon de renforcement musculaire, notamment parce que cela nécessite peu de matériel. [less ▲]

Mapping Magnetic Near-Field Distributions of Plasmonic Nanoantennas

in ACS Nano (2013)

We present direct experimental mapping of the lateral magnetic near-field distribution in plasmonic nanoantennas using aperture scanning nearfield optical microscopy (SNOM). By means of full-field ... [more ▼]

We present direct experimental mapping of the lateral magnetic near-field distribution in plasmonic nanoantennas using aperture scanning nearfield optical microscopy (SNOM). By means of full-field simulations it is demonstrated how the coupling of the hollow-pyramid aperture probe to the nanoantenna induces an effective magnetic dipole which efficiently excites surface plasmon resonances only at lateral magnetic field maxima. This excitation in turn affects the detected light intensity enabling the visualization of the lateral magnetic near-field distribution of multiple odd and even order plasmon modes with subwavelength spatial resolution. [less ▲]

Selected Protein Monitoring in Histological Sections by Targeted MALDI-FTICR in-source decay Imaging.

in Analytical Chemistry (2013), sous presse

MALDI mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI MSI) is a rapidly growing method in biomedical research allowing molecular mapping of proteins on histological sections. The images can be analyzed in terms of ... [more ▼]

MALDI mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI MSI) is a rapidly growing method in biomedical research allowing molecular mapping of proteins on histological sections. The images can be analyzed in terms of spectral pattern to define regions of interest. However, the identification and the differential quantitative analysis of proteins require off line or in situ proteomic methods using enzymatic digestion. The rapid identification of biomarkers holds great promise for diagnostic research but the major obstacle is the absence of rapid and direct method to detect and identify with a sufficient dynamic range a set of specific biomarkers. In the current work, we present a proof of concept for a method allowing identifying simultaneously a set of selected biomarkers on histological slices with minimal sample treatment using in-source decay (ISD) MSI and MALDI-Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FTICR). In the proposed method, known biomarkers are spotted next to the tissue of interest, the whole MALDI plate being coated with 1,5-DAN matrix. The latter enhances MALDI radical-induced ISD, providing large tags of the amino acid sequences. Comparative analysis of ISD fragments between the reference spots and the specimen in imaging mode allows for unambiguous identification of the selected biomarker while preserving full spatial resolution. Moreover, the high resolution/high mass accuracy provided by FTICR mass spectrometry allows the identification of proteins. Well-resolved peaks and precise measurements of masses and mass differences allow the construction of reliable sequence tags for proteins identification. The method will allow the use MALDI-FTICR MSI as method for rapid targeted biomarker detection in complement to classical histology. [less ▲]

Use of Raman spectrometry in the pharmaceutical field

in STP Pharma Pratiques (2013), 23(2), 97-117

This document sets out the theoretical and practical fundamentals to guide users in the imple- mentation of Raman spectroscopy in industry or the university-hospital sector. It describes the principle of ... [more ▼]

This document sets out the theoretical and practical fundamentals to guide users in the imple- mentation of Raman spectroscopy in industry or the university-hospital sector. It describes the principle of this technique and currently available instruments. Since Raman spectrometers are used in a regulated context, the methodology of instru- ment qualification is discussed. Different types of applications encountered in the pharmaceutical field are presented: process monitoring, searching for and detecting counterfeits, and identifying raw materials on receipt. [less ▲]