Laboratory demonstration of a mid-infrared AGPM vector vortex coronagraph

in Astronomy and Astrophysics (2013), 553

Coronagraphy is a powerful technique to achieve high contrast imaging and hence to image faint companions around bright targets. Various concepts have been used in the visible and near-infrared regimes ... [more ▼]

Coronagraphy is a powerful technique to achieve high contrast imaging and hence to image faint companions around bright targets. Various concepts have been used in the visible and near-infrared regimes, while coronagraphic applications in the mid-infrared remain nowadays largely unexplored. Vector vortex phase masks based on concentric subwavelength gratings show great promise for such applications. We aim at producing and validating the first high-performance broadband focal plane phase mask coronagraphs for applications in the mid-infrared regime, and in particular the L band with a fractional bandwidth of ~16% (3.5-4.1 \mu m). Based on rigorous coupled wave analysis, we designed an annular groove phase mask (AGPM) producing a vortex effect in the L band, and etched it onto a series of diamond substrates. The grating parameters were measured by means of scanning electron microscopy. The resulting components were then tested on a mid-infrared coronagraphic test bench. A broadband raw null depth of 2 x 10^{-3} was obtained for our best L-band AGPM after only a few iterations between design and manufacturing. This corresponds to a raw contrast of about 6 x 10^{-5} (10.5 mag) at 2\lambda/D. This result is fully in line with our projections based on rigorous coupled wave analysis modeling, using the measured grating parameters. The sensitivity to tilt and focus has also been evaluated. After years of technological developments, mid-infrared vector vortex coronagraphs finally become a reality and live up to our expectations. Based on their measured performance, our L-band AGPMs are now ready to open a new parameter space in exoplanet imaging at major ground-based observatories. [less ▲]

Surface activity of a fluorinated carbohydrate ester in water/carbon dioxide emulsions

in Journal of Colloid & Interface Science (2013), 398

The water/carbon dioxide (W/CO2) interfacial activity and emulsifying capacity of hydrocarbon and fluorinated carbohydrate esters are investigated of the first time and compared to the performance of ... [more ▼]

The water/carbon dioxide (W/CO2) interfacial activity and emulsifying capacity of hydrocarbon and fluorinated carbohydrate esters are investigated of the first time and compared to the performance of sodium-bis(2-ethylhexyl)sulfosuccinate (AOT). The reduction of the W/CO2 interfacial tension was measured using a pendant drop tensiometer equipped with a cell view pressurized with CO2 at 80 bar and 45 °C. It was found that the interface stabilization improved in the order AOT < 6-O-myristoyl mannose < 6-O-(2H,2H,3H,3H-perfluoroundecanoyl)-D-mannose. In the latter case, a drastic reduction of the W/CO2 interfacial tension was observed (85% reduction, interfacial tension at the equilibrium = 3.6 mN/m), which emphasizes the advantage of using a fluorinated CO2-philic tail and the potential of sugars as hydrophilic head. The formulation of stable W/CO2 emulsions was also achieved using the fluorinated mannose derivative. This study paves the way to the design of a novel class of competitive surface active agents for W/CO2 emulsions. [less ▲]

Design of a small-scale organic Rankine cycle engine used in a solar power plant

in International Journal of Low Carbon Technologies (2013)

Under the economic and political pressure due to the depletion of fossil fuels and global warming concerns, it is necessary to develop more sustainable techniques to provide electrical power. In this ... [more ▼]

Under the economic and political pressure due to the depletion of fossil fuels and global warming concerns, it is necessary to develop more sustainable techniques to provide electrical power. In this context, the present study aims at designing, building and testing a small-scale organic Rankine cycle (ORC) solar power plant ( 3 kWe) in order to define and optimize control strategies that could be applied to larger systems. This paper presents a first step of the design of the solar power plant and focuses more specifically on the ORC engine. This design is defined on the basis of simulation models of the ORC engine and takes into account some technical limitations such as the allowed operating ranges and the technical maturity of the components. The final configuration includes a diaphragm pump, two plate heat exchangers for the regenerator and the evaporator, an air-cooled condenser, two hermetic scroll expanders in series and R245fa as the working fluid. Simulations indicate that an efficiency close to 12% for the ORC engine can be reached for evaporating and condensing temperatures of 140 and 358C, respectively. [less ▲]

Preclinical radiation dosimetry for the novel SV2A radiotracer [18F]UCB-H

in European Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Research (2013), 3(1), 35

Background: [18F]UCB-H was developed as a novel radiotracer with a high affinity for synaptic vesicle protein 2A, the binding site for the antiepileptic levetiracetam. The objectives of this study were to ... [more ▼]

Background: [18F]UCB-H was developed as a novel radiotracer with a high affinity for synaptic vesicle protein 2A, the binding site for the antiepileptic levetiracetam. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the radiation dosimetry of [18F]UCB-H in a preclinical trial and to determine the maximum injectable dose according to guidelines for human biomedical research. The radiation dosimetry was derived by organ harvesting and dynamic micro positron emission tomography (PET) imaging in mice, and the results of both methods were compared. Methods: Twenty-four male C57BL-6 mice were injected with 6.96 ± 0.81 MBq of [18F]UCB-H, and the biodistribution was determined by organ harvesting at 2, 5, 10, 30, 60, and 120 min (n = 4 for each time point). Dynamic microPET imaging was performed on five male C57BL-6 mice after the injection of 9.19 ± 3.40 MBq of [18F]UCB-H. A theoretical dynamic bladder model was applied to simulate urinary excretion. Human radiation dose estimates were derived from animal data using the International Commission on Radiological Protection 103 tissue weighting factors. Results: Based on organ harvesting, the urinary bladder wall, liver and brain received the highest radiation dose with a resulting effective dose of 1.88E-02 mSv/MBq. Based on dynamic imaging an effective dose of 1.86E-02 mSv/MBq was calculated, with the urinary bladder wall and liver (brain was not in the imaging field of view) receiving the highest radiation. Conclusions: This first preclinical dosimetry study of [18F]UCB-H showed that the tracer meets the standard criteria for radiation exposure in clinical studies. The dose-limiting organ based on US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European guidelines was the urinary bladder wall for FDA and the effective dose for Europe with a maximum injectable single dose of approximately 325 MBq was calculated. Although microPET imaging showed significant deviations from organ harvesting, the Pearson’s correlation coefficient between radiation dosimetry derived by either method was 0.9666. [less ▲]

Numerical investigation and experimental validation of physically-based advanced GTN model for DP steels

in Materials Science & Engineering : A (2013), 569

This numerical investigation of an advanced Gurson-Tvergaard-Needleman (GTN) model is an extension of the original work of [Ben Bettaieb, M., Lemoine, X., Bouaziz, O., Habraken, A.-M., Duchêne, L ... [more ▼]

This numerical investigation of an advanced Gurson-Tvergaard-Needleman (GTN) model is an extension of the original work of [Ben Bettaieb, M., Lemoine, X., Bouaziz, O., Habraken, A.-M., Duchêne, L., Numerical modeling of damage evolution of DP steels on the basis of X-ray tomography measurements, Mechanics of Materials 43 (2011) 139-156]. The current damage model extends the previous version by integrating the three damage mechanisms: nucleation, growth and coalescence of voids. Physically-based void nucleation and growth laws are considered, including an effect of the kinematic hardening. [less ▲]

A micro-meso-model of intra-laminar fracture in fi ber-reinforced composites based on a Discontinuous Galerkin/Cohesive Zone Method

in Engineering Fracture Mechanics (2013), 104

The recently developed hybrid discontinuous Galerkin/extrinsic cohesive law framework is extended to the study of intra{laminar fracture of composite materials. Toward this end, micro-volumes of di erent ... [more ▼]

The recently developed hybrid discontinuous Galerkin/extrinsic cohesive law framework is extended to the study of intra{laminar fracture of composite materials. Toward this end, micro-volumes of di erent sizes are studied. The method captures the debonding process, which is herein proposed to be assimilated to a damaging process, before the strain softening onset, and the density of dissipated energy resulting from the damage (debonding) remains the same for the di erent studied cell sizes. Finally, during the strain softening phase a micro{crack initiates and propagates in agreement with experimental observations. We thus extract a resulting mesoscale cohesive law, which is independent on the cell sizes, using literature methods. [less ▲]

The “soy-ization” of Argentina: dynamics of the “globalized” privatization regime in a peripheral context

in Technology in Society (2013), 35(2),

Based on extensive fieldwork conducted with actors from public, private and associative sectors, we explore the expansion of genetically modified soy in Argentina and we aim to figure out how the ... [more ▼]

Based on extensive fieldwork conducted with actors from public, private and associative sectors, we explore the expansion of genetically modified soy in Argentina and we aim to figure out how the neoliberal “globalized privatization regime” unfolded in a peripheral location. Our case points at two inherent contradictions with such a regime’s main tenets, namely that it needs a weak antitrust policy (thus leading to a market situation dominated by a monopoly of transnational companies) and a hyper-restrictive system of intellectual property. We highlight the participation of two groups of local actors in the regime. The first group is aligned with the globalized privatization regime agendas, while the second is involved in protest and regulatory actions focusing on the health, environment and safety issues related to the GM soy complex. To a different extent, both groups share a local agenda of resistance and an anti-imperialist imaginary. Both have national development objectives of Argentina in their ideological roots, although their conceptions of “development” are different (industrial development vs. protection of peasants’ life and the environment). We conclude that it is not enough to postulate that the neoliberal globalized privatization regime will just expand to the South as it did in Northern countries. Rather, combined with the commercialization of science, peripherality creates protest, activism and local regulation. [less ▲]

Reconstructing and Tracking Network State from a Limited Number of Synchrophasor Measurements

in IEEE Transactions on Power Systems (2013), 28

A method is proposed to reconstruct and track network state from a limited number of Phasor Measurement Unit (PMU) data. To deal with the resulting unobservability, the state with bus powers and generator ... [more ▼]

A method is proposed to reconstruct and track network state from a limited number of Phasor Measurement Unit (PMU) data. To deal with the resulting unobservability, the state with bus powers and generator voltages closest to previously estimated values is computed. Those values, treated as pseudomeasurements, are obtained from the last reconstructed state, in a recursive manner. The method involves solving an optimization problem with linear constraints. It is scalable insofar as it accommodates from a few PMUs up to configurations ensuring full network observability. Reconstruction of only a region is possible. These and other features are demonstrated on the Nordic32 test system, with synchronized phasors obtained from detailed time simulation of a situation evolving towards instability. Suitable choices of PMU location and pseudo-measurements are also discussed. [less ▲]

La conciliation vie privée-vie professionnelle des gestionnaires hommes et femmes : le cas d'une société de transport québécoise

in @GRH (2013), 2013/1 (n°6)

While the professional category of managers presents special characteristics, one of them being important temporal obligations, we may ask whether men and women managers articulate work and life and ... [more ▼]

While the professional category of managers presents special characteristics, one of them being important temporal obligations, we may ask whether men and women managers articulate work and life and establish priorities in different ways. Wanting to look into this question, we focused on managers or executives and did so in a predominantly male environment, that of a transport company in Quebec. Our research question can be formulated as follows: "How do men and women managers with different family situations reconcile their private and professional lives?” In order to answer this question and attain our various research objectives, we studied a male dominated sector. We mobilized the qualitative technique of semi-structured interviews and met with 17 managers, including 8 men and 9 women in the company. While this qualitative research is mainly exploratory, our results show that men and women managers prioritize in different ways. However, we observed an increased willingness of men to have more time for family. In contrast, gender has no impact on the use of organizational measures to reconcile professional and private life. Thus, gender is not, in itself, a dominant variable influencing the practices of reconciling private and professional lives of managers, as other factors such as socio-professional category, the sector, the nature of the position, family characteristics, etc. also play a role and from this point of view, women and men experience similar situations. Our research highlights interesting temporal strategies of managers, one which is based on a hierarchy of time availability and another on the preservation of private/family times. [less ▲]

Fecal calprotectin concentrations in adult dogs with chronic diarrhea.

in American Journal of Veterinary Research (2013), 74 (5)

Fertilization Effects on the Chemical Composition and In Vitro Organic Matter Digestibility of Semi-natural Meadows as Predicted by NIR Spectrometry

in Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici Cluj-Napoca (2013), 41(1), 42-48

Management of livestock grazing in highly-productive mountain meadows is an important aspect for the economic viability and the environmental impact of a grassland-based farm. The main aim of this study ... [more ▼]

Management of livestock grazing in highly-productive mountain meadows is an important aspect for the economic viability and the environmental impact of a grassland-based farm. The main aim of this study was to build near infrared models to determine the chemical composition and in vitro organic matter digestibility of Romanian meadow forages. The treatments were organic and mineral fertilizer combinations, and forage samples were obtained from three fertilization experiments conducted in the Apuseni Mountains; these samples were analysed using classical and NIR methods. The samples were scanned in the NIR wavelength band. The CRA-W Gembloux ‘local’ calibration models were validated with Romanian meadow forages and then used in order to predict the forage quality of samples. A second objective of the study was to determine the effects of fertilization on forage quality. The results showed a decrease in crude protein content from the NPK treatment (150:75:75), which can be explained by a reduction of Fabaceae plants with this treatment from 17.25% of the populations in the control (semi-natural meadow not fertilized) to 6.25% in the fertilized plots. The decrease in protein content and in vitro organic matter digestibility was related to a reduced Fabaceae presence. Our recommendation is to use mineral fertilization with NPK doses less than 100:50:50 to improve meadow productivity; meanwhile organic fertilization can also be used to complement and maintain biodiversity and forage quality. [less ▲]

Computation of worst operation scenarios under uncertainty for static security management

in IEEE Transactions on Power Systems (2013), 28(2), 1697-1705

This paper deals with day-ahead static security assessment with respect to a postulated set of contingencies while taking into account uncertainties about the next day system conditions. We propose a ... [more ▼]

This paper deals with day-ahead static security assessment with respect to a postulated set of contingencies while taking into account uncertainties about the next day system conditions. We propose a heuristic approach to compute the worst-case under operation uncertainty for a contingency with respect to overloads. We formulate this problem as a non-convex nonlinear bilevel program that we solve approximately by a heuristic approach which relies on the solution of successive optimal power flow (OPF) and security-constrained optimal power flow (SCOPF) problems of a special type. The method aims at revealing those combinations of uncertainties and contingencies for which the best combination of preventive and corrective actions would not suffice to ensure security. Extensive numerical results on a small, a medium, and a very large system prove the interest of the approach. [less ▲]

Geodesics on a supermanifold and projective equivalence of superconnections

in Journal of Geometry & Physics (2013), 67

A NEW SIMPLIFIED ANALYTICAL DESIGN METHOD FOR STEEL AND COMPOSITE SWAY FRAMES

in Journal of Constructional Steel Research (2013)

Eurocode 4 is the European design code for composite construction; in its so-called EN 1994-1-1 version, the design of “non-sway buildings” is mainly covered. As a result, EC4 focuses on the check of ... [more ▼]

Eurocode 4 is the European design code for composite construction; in its so-called EN 1994-1-1 version, the design of “non-sway buildings” is mainly covered. As a result, EC4 focuses on the check of structural elements like beams, columns, slabs and joints. However, in the last years, the construction of taller buildings and larger industrial halls without wind bracing systems tends to make global instability a relevant failure mode, which is not well covered by Eurocode 4. Recently, intensive experimental, numerical and theoretical investigations have been carried out at Liège University. The latter aimed at improving the knowledge in the field of sway composite building frames and at developing appropriate design rules. The rotational behavior of the beam-to-column composite joints is one of the key aspects of the problem to which a special attention has been paid. This paper reflects investigations carried out at Liège University on this topic. In particular, an innovative simplified analytical method to predict the ultimate loading factor and the associated collapse mode of both steel and composite frames subjected to static loadings is presented. [less ▲]

Astrochemistry: The issue of molecular complexity in astrophysical environments

in Bulletin de la Société Royale des Sciences de Liège (2013), 83

Astrochemistry aims at studying chemical processes in astronomical environments. This discipline -- located at the crossroad between astrophysics and chemistry -- is rapidly evolving and explores the ... [more ▼]

Astrochemistry aims at studying chemical processes in astronomical environments. This discipline -- located at the crossroad between astrophysics and chemistry -- is rapidly evolving and explores the issue of the formation of molecules of increasing complexity in particular physical conditions that deviate signi - cantly from those frequently encountered in chemistry laboratories. The main goal of this paper is to provide an overview of this discipline. So far, about 170 molecules have been identi ed in the interstellar medium (ISM). The presence of this molecular diversity constitutes a rm evidence that e cient formation processes are at work in the interstellar medium. This paper aims at summarizing most of present ideas that are explored by astrochemists to investigate the chemistry taking place in various astronomical environments, with emphasis on the particular conditions which are met in space (including radiation elds, cosmic-rays, low densities...). The more ambitious question of the molecular complexity is addressed following two approaches presented to be converging. The rst approach considers the growing complexity starting from the most simple chemical species in interstellar environments, and the second approach envisages successive precursors of the most complex species commonly found on Earth, and in particular in our biochemistry. The issue of molecular complexity constitutes one of the main modern scienti c questions addressed by astrochemistry, and it is used as a guideline across this paper. [less ▲]

Evaluation de la qualité de vie des patients édentés complets porteurs d'une réhabilitation sur implants

in Information Dentaire (L') (2013), 20

Third generation stellar models for asteroseismology of hot B subdwarf stars. A test of accuracy with the pulsating eclipsing binary PG 1336–018

in Astronomy and Astrophysics (2013), 553

Context. Asteroseismic determinations of structural parameters of hot B subdwarfs (sdB) have been carried out for more than a decade now. These analyses rely on stellar models whose reliability for the ... [more ▼]

Context. Asteroseismic determinations of structural parameters of hot B subdwarfs (sdB) have been carried out for more than a decade now. These analyses rely on stellar models whose reliability for the required task needs to be evaluated critically. Aims. We present new models of the so-called third generation (3G) dedicated to the asteroseismology of sdB stars, in particular to long-period pulsators observed from space. These parameterized models are complete static structures suitable for analyzing both p- and g-mode pulsators, contrary to the former second generation (2G) models that were limited to p-modes. While the reliability of the 2G models has been successfully verified in the past, this important test still has to be conducted on the 3G structures. Methods. The close eclipsing binary PG 1336−018 provides a unique opportunity to test the reliability of hot B subdwarf models. We compare the structural parameters of the sdB component in PG 1336−018 obtained from asteroseismology based on the 3G models, with those derived independently from the modeling of the reflection/irradiation effect and the eclipses observed in the light curve. Results. The stellar parameters inferred from asteroseismology using the 3G models are found to be remarkably consistent with both the preferred orbital solution obtained from the binary light curve modeling and the updated spectroscopic estimates for the surface gravity of the star. The seismology gives M∗ = 0.471 ± 0.006 M⊙ , R∗ = 0.1474 ± 0.0009 R⊙ , and log g = 5.775 ± 0.007, while orbitology leads to M∗ = 0.466 ± 0.006 M⊙ , R∗ = 0.15 ± 0.01 R⊙ , log g = 5.77 ± 0.06, and spectroscopy yields log g = 5.771 ± 0.015. In comparison seismology from a former analysis based on the 2G models gave very similar results with M∗ = 0.459 ± 0.005 M⊙ , R∗ = 0.151±0.001 R⊙, and log g = 5.739±0.002. We also show that the uncertainties on the input physics included in stellar models have no noticeable impact, at the current level of accuracy, on the structural parameters derived by asteroseismology. Conclusions. The stellar models (both of second and third generation) presently used to carry out quantitative seismic analyses of sdB stars are reliable for the task. The stellar parameters inferred by this technique, at least for those that could be tested (M∗, R, and log g), appear to be both very precise and accurate, as no significant systematic effect has been found. [less ▲]

L'herméneutique paranoïaque

in Evolution Psychiatrique (2013), 78(2), 267-277

This paper addresses the issue of paranoiac hermeneutic (search for meaning and significance). As any human hermeneutics, this tendency to interpret the world includes a relational dimension as well as a ... [more ▼]

This paper addresses the issue of paranoiac hermeneutic (search for meaning and significance). As any human hermeneutics, this tendency to interpret the world includes a relational dimension as well as a bodily dimension. Three paradigms are proposed by the author to define this hermeneutics: (1) "the hazard does not exist" (2) " a certainty that is yet to be proved" and (3) "the paranoiac is unable to turn to a third party". This theoretical and clinical study also discusses the paranoiac logic in individuals free of mental illness and seeks to determine how a psychological paranoiac functioning will be part of the psychotic register or not. The concepts of "loss of natural evidence" and "pathology of common sense" are those which are used to demonstrate that is in the social and relational dimensions that the problems of the paranoiac lie. The fundamental question regarding the status of reality and knowledge (and of its diffusion) is the dimension that causes the switch to psychosis. The hermeneutics of the relationship is empty for the paranoiac and his "knowledge" no longer meets the social rules which normally turn interpretation into opinion and not into delusion. [less ▲]

The multifaceted struggle for power in the bioeconomy

in Technology in Society (2013), 35(2),

L’UE, l’interrégionalisme et les puissances émergentes. Le cas du ‘partenariat’ euro-brésilien

in Politique Européenne (2013), 39

La contribution revient sur les relations développée avec le Brésil et s'intérroge sur les raisons de ce partenariat, sur les intérêts des parties pour une telle association, sur la manière dont cette ... [more ▼]

La contribution revient sur les relations développée avec le Brésil et s'intérroge sur les raisons de ce partenariat, sur les intérêts des parties pour une telle association, sur la manière dont cette dernière s’articule avec les relations que l’UE entretient avec le Mercosur ainsi que sur les obstacles et les limites qu’elle rencontre. [less ▲]

Epreuves isocinétiques de résistance à la fatigue

in Lettre de Médecine Physique et de Réadaptation (2013)

AOB community structure and richness under European beech, sessile oak, Norway spruce and Douglas-fir at three temperate forest sites

in Plant and Soil (2013), 366(1-2),

Abstract Background and aims The relations between tree species, microbial diversity and activity can alter ecosystem functioning. We investigated ammonia oxidizing bacteria (AOB) community structure and ... [more ▼]

Abstract Background and aims The relations between tree species, microbial diversity and activity can alter ecosystem functioning. We investigated ammonia oxidizing bacteria (AOB) community structure and richness, microbial/environmental factors related to AOB diversity and the relationship between AOB diversity and the nitrification process under several tree species. Methods Forest floor (Of, Oh) was sampled under European beech, sessile oak, Norway spruce and Douglas-fir at three sites. AOB community structure was assessed by PCR-DGGE and sequencing. Samples were analyzed for net N mineralization, potential nitrification, basal respiration, microbial biomass, microbial or metabolic quotient, pH, total nitrogen, extractable ammonium, organic matter content and exchangeable cations. Results AOB community structure and tree species effect on AOB diversity were site-specific. AOB richness was not related to nitrification. Factors regulating ammonium availability, i.e. net N mineralization or microbial biomass, were related to AOB community structure. Conclusion Our research shows that, at larger spatial scales, site specific characteristics may be more important than the nature of tree species in determining AOB diversity (richness and community structure). Within sites, tree species influence AOB diversity. The absence of a relation between AOB richness and nitrification points to a possibly role of AOB abundance, phenotypic plasticity or the implication of ammonia oxidizing archaea. [less ▲]

Jean Baubérot : La laïcité au pluriel

in Politique : Revue de Débats (2013), 80

Le travail de Jean Baubérot autour de la laîcité française est à la fois celui d'un historien, d'un sociologue et d'un théoricien politique. L'article tente de synthétiser sa réflexion à partir de ses ... [more ▼]

Le travail de Jean Baubérot autour de la laîcité française est à la fois celui d'un historien, d'un sociologue et d'un théoricien politique. L'article tente de synthétiser sa réflexion à partir de ses principaux textes récents. Il met en évidence la "provincialisation" de la laïcité à la française, qui parcourt toute l'oeuvre du sociologue, où celui-ci développe l'idée que la France n'est qu'un modèle de laicité parmi bien d'autres. Par ailleurs, comme Baubérot y insiste, il faut faire une différence marquée entre la laïcité "narrative", à savoir les récits qui s'expriment dans le débat public, et les pratiques réelle, souvent plus accomodantes. Enfin, cette laïcité narrative tend à faire dériver la laïcité comme ensemble de principes politiques vers une conception "culturaliste" qui tendrait à en faire un marqueur identitaire français. [less ▲]

An essential role for gamma-herpesvirus latency-associated nuclear antigen homolog in an acute lymphoproliferative disease of cattle.

in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America (2013)

Wildebeests carry asymptomatically alcelaphine herpesvirus 1 (AlHV-1), a gamma-herpesvirus inducing malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) to several ruminant species (including cattle). This acute and lethal ... [more ▼]

Wildebeests carry asymptomatically alcelaphine herpesvirus 1 (AlHV-1), a gamma-herpesvirus inducing malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) to several ruminant species (including cattle). This acute and lethal lymphoproliferative disease occurs after a prolonged asymptomatic incubation period after transmission. Our recent findings with the rabbit model indicated that AlHV-1 infection is not productive during MCF. Here, we investigated whether latency establishment could explain this apparent absence of productive infection and sought to determine its role in MCF pathogenesis. First, whole-genome cellular and viral gene expression analyses were performed in lymph nodes of MCF-developing calves. Whereas a severe disruption in cellular genes was observed, only 10% of the entire AlHV-1 genome was expressed, contrasting with the 45% observed during productive infection in vitro. In vivo, the expressed viral genes included the latency-associated nuclear antigen homolog ORF73 but none of the regions known to be essential for productive infection. Next, genomic conformation analyses revealed that AlHV-1 was essentially episomal, further suggesting that MCF might be the consequence of a latent infection rather than abortive lytic infection. This hypothesis was further supported by the high frequencies of infected CD8+ T cells during MCF using immunodetection of ORF73 protein and single-cell RT-PCR approaches. Finally, the role of latency-associated ORF73 was addressed. A lack of ORF73 did not impair initial virus replication in vivo, but it rendered AlHV-1 unable to induce MCF and persist in vivo and conferred protection against a lethal challenge with a WT virus. Together, these findings suggest that a latent infection is essential for MCF induction. [less ▲]

Compost Pile Monitoring Using Different Approaches:GC-MS, E-nose and dynamic olfactometry

in Waste and Biomass Valorization (2013)

The evaluation of odour emissions associated to the composting process is complex because these emissions depend on several factors such as the raw material to be composted, the different stages of the ... [more ▼]

The evaluation of odour emissions associated to the composting process is complex because these emissions depend on several factors such as the raw material to be composted, the different stages of the composting process, meteorological conditions, and others. For this reason, the aim of this paper is to compare complementary approaches to monitor odours. The odour source selected for this study is green waste compost at different maturity stages. The study site is a composting facility located in the south of Belgium. The compared approaches were: a portable e-nose developed by the Environmental Monitoring Research team (Arlon, Belgium) to monitor odorous emissions from the composting piles; chemical analyses performed in the laboratory using a GC–MS (manufactured by Thermo) to analyse volatile organic compounds which were collected by active sampling on Tenax TA sorbent simultaneously to the in situ e-nose measurements and olfactometric measurements to determine the odour concentration (ouE/m3) using the Odile olfactometer (Odotech). The portable e-nose was also used in the laboratory with compost odour samples collected in bags. The large numbers of data sets obtained were explored by statistical methods such as principal components analysis. The results obtained highlight the advantages of monitoring the composting process with these three approaches. Each approach gives different information about the composting process and the emissions generated. While the e-nose is capable of identifying some chemical family emissions and some activities such as turning steps, the GC–MS identifies each chemical compound emitted and dynamic olfactometry quantifies the odour concentration (ouE/m3) in relationship with these emissions. [less ▲]

A Methodology to Improve the Robustness of Gas Turbine Engine Performance Monitoring Against Sensor Faults

in Journal of Engineering for Gas Turbines and Power (2013), 135(5),

For turbine engine performance monitoring purposes, system identification techniques are often used to adapt a turbine engine simulation model to some measurements performed while the engine is in service ... [more ▼]

For turbine engine performance monitoring purposes, system identification techniques are often used to adapt a turbine engine simulation model to some measurements performed while the engine is in service. Doing so, the simulation model is adapted through a set of so-called health parameters whose values are intended to represent a faithful image of the actual health condition of the engine. For sake of low computational burden, the problem of random errors contaminating the measurements is often considered to be zero-mean, white and Gaussian random variables. However, when a sensor fault occurs, the measurement errors no longer satisfy the Gaussian assumption and the results given by the system identification rapidly become unreliable. The present contribution is dedicated to the development of a diagnosis tool based on a Kalman filter whose structure is slightly modified in order to accommodate sensor malfunctions. The benefit in terms of the diagnostic reliability of the resulting tool is illustrated on several sensor faults that may be encountered on a current turbofan layout. [less ▲]

One-pot controlled synthesis of double thermoresponsive N-vinylcaprolactam-based copolymers with tunable LCSTs

in Polymer Chemistry (2013), 4(8), 2575-2583

N-Vinylcaprolactam (NVCL) was copolymerized statistically for the first time in a controlled manner with hydrophilic N-vinylamide or hydrophobic vinylester monomers in order to precisely tune up and down ... [more ▼]

N-Vinylcaprolactam (NVCL) was copolymerized statistically for the first time in a controlled manner with hydrophilic N-vinylamide or hydrophobic vinylester monomers in order to precisely tune up and down the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of the resulting copolymers. The incorporation of these segments in complex architectures was also considered. Several narrowly distributed NVCL-based copolymers were prepared by cobalt-mediated radical polymerization (CMRP) using the bis-(acetylacetonato)cobalt(II) complex as a controlling agent and N-methyl-N-vinylacetamide (NMVA), N-vinylacetamide (NVA), vinyl acetate (VAc) or vinyl pivalate (VPi) as comonomers. PNVCL-containing block copolymers having two discrete LCSTs were also synthesized following a one-pot strategy based on the sequential CMRP of NVCL followed by the copolymerization of NMVA with the residual NVCL. Upon gradual heating of aqueous solutions of such double thermoresponsive copolymers, we noticed a transition from free chains to micelles before full dehydration and collapse of the block copolymers. These advances represent a significant step towards the development of a platform based on thermoresponsive PNVCL copolymers with a single phase separation or multistep assembly behaviors. [less ▲]

Fécondité des vaches et troupeaux laitiers wallons. Effet du management.

in Wallonie Elevages (2013), 4

L’intervalle moyen entre vêlages est de 409 jours. Pour les 25 % meilleurs troupeaux (3125 annéesz troupeaux) et vaches (107.700 lactations), il est respectivement de 387 et 346 jours. L’objectif ... [more ▼]

L’intervalle moyen entre vêlages est de 409 jours. Pour les 25 % meilleurs troupeaux (3125 annéesz troupeaux) et vaches (107.700 lactations), il est respectivement de 387 et 346 jours. L’objectif classiquement proposé d’un veau par vache et par an n’est atteint que dans 0,38% des troupeaux et par une vache sur quatre (27%). L’augmentation de la production laitière moyenne s’accompagne d’un allongement de l’intervalle entre vêlages. Des performances de reproduction comprises entre 380 jours pour les élevages dont la production est inférieure à 8000 kg et de 390 jours pour les élevages dont la production est supérieure à 8000 kg de lait sont néanmoins tout à fait possibles. L’impact de l’augmentation du niveau de production sur l’allongement de l’intervalle entre vêlages est limité. Les éleveurs dont les troupeaux ont des moyennes de production égales ou supérieures à 8.000 kg tirent un meilleur parti de l’environnement (effet positif) que ceux dont les troupeaux ont des moyennes de production inférieures à 7.000 Kg. La marge brute par vache augmente avec le niveau de production laitière moyen du troupeau. [less ▲]

In situ nitroxide-mediated polymerization of styrene promoted by the N-tert-butyl-alpha-isopropylnitrone/BPO pair: ESR investigations

in Journal of Polymer Science. Part A, Polymer Chemistry (2013), 51(8), 1786-1795

The styrene polymerization initiated by benzoyl peroxide (BPO) in the presence of N-tert-butyl--isopropylnitrone as nitroxide precursor is well-controlled provided that a prereaction between the nitrone ... [more ▼]

The styrene polymerization initiated by benzoyl peroxide (BPO) in the presence of N-tert-butyl--isopropylnitrone as nitroxide precursor is well-controlled provided that a prereaction between the nitrone and BPO is carried out in suitable conditions prior to polymerization at a higher temperature. Electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy was implemented to probe the nitroxides formed during both steps, that is, the prereaction and polymerization, and to get crucial information regarding the structure of the nitroxides responsible for the polymerization control. ESR studies combined with first principles calculations have evidenced that nitroxides observed during the prereaction in the presence of styrene and during the polymerization steps consist of a mixture of two macronitroxides. One is formed by the addition of a growing polystyrene chain to the nitrone as would be expected. However, the second one results from the addition of a polystyrene chain to tert-butyl nitroso that is in situ formed presumably by decomposition of the first macronitroxide type. [less ▲]

The future sea-level rise contribution of Greenland's glaciers and ice caps

in Environmental Research Letters (2013), 8(025005), 14

We calculate the future sea-level rise contribution from the surface mass balance of all of Greenland's glaciers and ice caps (GICs, ~90 000 km2) using a simplified energy balance model which is driven by ... [more ▼]

We calculate the future sea-level rise contribution from the surface mass balance of all of Greenland's glaciers and ice caps (GICs, ~90 000 km2) using a simplified energy balance model which is driven by three future climate scenarios from the regional climate models HIRHAM5, RACMO2 and MAR. Glacier extent and surface elevation are modified during the mass balance model runs according to a glacier retreat parameterization. Mass balance and glacier surface change are both calculated on a 250 m resolution digital elevation model yielding a high level of detail and ensuring that important feedback mechanisms are considered. The mass loss of all GICs by 2098 is calculated to be 2016 ± 129 Gt (HIRHAM5 forcing), 2584 ± 109 Gt (RACMO2) and 3907 ± 108 Gt (MAR). This corresponds to a total contribution to sea-level rise of 5.8 ± 0.4, 7.4 ± 0.3 and 11.2 ± 0.3 mm, respectively. Sensitivity experiments suggest that mass loss could be higher by 20–30% if a strong lowering of the surface albedo were to take place in the future. It is shown that the sea-level rise contribution from the north-easterly regions of Greenland is reduced by increasing precipitation while mass loss in the southern half of Greenland is dominated by steadily decreasing summer mass balances. In addition we observe glaciers in the north-eastern part of Greenland changing their characteristics towards greater activity and mass turnover. [less ▲]

Occupational activity and cognitive reserve: implications in terms of prevention of cognitive aging and Alzheimer’s disease

in Clinical Interventions in Aging (2013), 8

This paper investigates the relationship between the concept of activity (including both professional and nonprofessional) and cognitive functioning among older European individuals. In this research, we ... [more ▼]

This paper investigates the relationship between the concept of activity (including both professional and nonprofessional) and cognitive functioning among older European individuals. In this research, we used data collected during the first wave of SHARE (Survey on Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe), and a measurement approach known as stochastic frontier analysis, derived from the economic literature. SHARE includes a large population (n . 25,000) geographically distributed across Europe, and analyzes several dimensions simultaneously, including physical and mental health activity. The main advantages of stochastic frontier analysis are that it allows estimation of parametric function relating cognitive scores and driving factors at the boundary and disentangles frontier noise and distance to frontier components, as well as testing the effect of potential factors on these distances simultaneously. The analysis reveals that all activities are positively related to cognitive functioning in elderly people. Our results are discussed in terms of prevention of cognitive aging and Alzheimer’s disease, and regarding the potential impact that some retirement programs might have on cognitive functioning in individuals across Europe. [less ▲]

Evidence and analysis of 2012 Greenland records from spaceborne observations, a regional climate model and reanalysis data

in Cryosphere (The) (2013), 7

A combined analysis of remote sensing observations, regional climate model (RCM) outputs and reanalysis data over the Greenland ice sheet provides evidence that multiple records were set during summer ... [more ▼]

A combined analysis of remote sensing observations, regional climate model (RCM) outputs and reanalysis data over the Greenland ice sheet provides evidence that multiple records were set during summer 2012. Melt extent was the largest in the satellite era (extending up to ∼97% of the ice sheet) and melting lasted up to ∼2 months longer than the 1979–2011 mean. Model results indicate that near surface temperature was ∼3 standard deviations (σ) above the 1958–2011 mean, while surface mass balance (SMB) was ∼3σ below the mean and runoff was 3.9σ above the mean over the same period. Albedo, exposure of bare ice and surface mass balance also set new records, as did the total mass balance with summer and annual mass changes of, respectively, −627 Gt and −574 Gt, 2σ below the 2003–2012 mean. We identify persistent anticyclonic conditions over Greenland associated with anomalies in the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), changes in surface conditions (e.g., albedo, surface temperature) and preconditioning of surface properties from recent extreme melting as major driving mechanisms for the 2012 records. Less positive if not increasingly negative SMB will likely occur should these characteristics persist. [less ▲]

Adult Mesenchymal Stem Cells, Adult Neural Crest Stem Cells and Therapy of Neurological Pathologies: a State of Play

in Stem Cells Translational Medicine (2013), 2(4), 284-296

Adult stem cells are endowed with in vitro multi-lineage differentiation abilities, and constitute an attractive autologous source of material for cell therapy in neurological disorders. With regards to ... [more ▼]

Adult stem cells are endowed with in vitro multi-lineage differentiation abilities, and constitute an attractive autologous source of material for cell therapy in neurological disorders. With regards to lately published results, the ability of adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and neural crest stem cells (NCSC) to integrate and differentiate into neurons once inside the central nervous system (CNS) is currently questioned. In this review, we collected exhaustive data on MSC/NCSC neural differentiation in vitro. We then analyzed pre-clinical cell therapy experiments in different models for neurological diseases and concluded that neural differentiation is probably not the leading property of adult MSC and NCSC concerning neurological pathologies management. Definitely, a fine analysis of the molecules that are secreted by MSC and NCSC would be of significant interest regarding their important contribution to the clinical and pathological recovery after CNS lesions. [less ▲]

A massive parsec-scale dust ring nebula around the yellow hypergiant Hen 3-1379

in Astronomy and Astrophysics (2013), 552

On the basis of far-infrared images obtained by the Herschel Space Observatory, we report the discovery of a large and massive dust shell around the yellow hypergiant Hen 3-1379. The nebula appears as a ... [more ▼]

On the basis of far-infrared images obtained by the Herschel Space Observatory, we report the discovery of a large and massive dust shell around the yellow hypergiant Hen 3-1379. The nebula appears as a detached ring of 1 pc diameter which contains 0.17 M[SUB]&sun;[/SUB] of dust. We estimate the total gas mass to be 7 M[SUB]&sun;[/SUB], ejected some 1.6 × 10[SUP]4[/SUP] years ago. The ring nebula is very similar to nebulae found around luminous blue variables (LBVs) except it is not photoionized. We argued that Hen 3-1379 is in a pre-LBV stage, providing direct evidence that massive LBV ring nebulae can be ejected during the red supergiant phase. [less ▲]

WASP-64b and WASP-72b: two new transiting highly irradiated giant planets

in Astronomy and Astrophysics (2013), 552

We report the discovery by the WASP transit survey of two new highly irradiated giant planets. WASP-64 b is slightly more massive (1.271 ± 0.068 MJup) and larger (1.271 ± 0.039 RJup) than Jupiter, and is ... [more ▼]

We report the discovery by the WASP transit survey of two new highly irradiated giant planets. WASP-64 b is slightly more massive (1.271 ± 0.068 MJup) and larger (1.271 ± 0.039 RJup) than Jupiter, and is in very-short (a = 0.02648 ± 0.00024 AU, P = 1.5732918 ± 0.0000015 days) circular orbit around a V = 12.3 G7-type dwarf (1.004 ± 0.028 Msun, 1.058 ± 0.025 Rsun, Teff = 5500 ± 150 K). Its size is typical of hot Jupiters with similar masses. WASP-72 b has also a mass a bit higher than Jupiter's (1.461-0.056+0.059 MJup) and orbits very close (0.03708 ± 0.00050 AU, P = 2.2167421 ± 0.0000081 days) to a bright (V = 9.6) and moderately evolved F7-type star (1.386 ± 0.055 Msun, 1.98 ± 0.24 Rsun, Teff = 6250 ± 100 K). Despite its extreme irradiation (~5.5 × 109 erg s-1 cm-2), WASP-72 b has a moderate size (1.27 ± 0.20 RJup) that could suggest a significant enrichment in heavy elements. Nevertheless, the errors on its physical parameters are still too high to draw any strong inference on its internal structure or its possible peculiarity. [less ▲]

L’Europe face à la montée en puissance de la Chine : miracle ou péril jaune?

in Revue Nouvelle (2013)

Par-delà le volontarisme des discours officiels, la montée en puissance de la Chine n’est pas sans impact sur l’UE ni sur l’évolution des relations sino-européennes. Considérant la place de l’économie ... [more ▼]

Par-delà le volontarisme des discours officiels, la montée en puissance de la Chine n’est pas sans impact sur l’UE ni sur l’évolution des relations sino-européennes. Considérant la place de l’économie dans leurs stratégies respectives pour s’établir comme « puissance » mondiale, cet article tente de comprendre les enjeux clés de la « stratégie » économique chinoise et d’identifier les incitants et contraintes pour l’Europe d’un accroissement de ses échanges avec Pékin. Dans un contexte de crise où la réalité macroéconomique les enjoint à repenser leur « modèle » de développement, la Chine : miracle ou péril jaune pour l’Europe ? [less ▲]

Pluriel et singulier

in A+ : Revue d'architecture (2013), 241

Dans le quartier Saint-Léonard au nord de Liège, l’ensemble de logement des Forges, conçu par l’atelier Pierre Blondel Architectes, tisse des liens de Meuse à Coteaux et réinterprète les modes d’habiter ... [more ▼]

Dans le quartier Saint-Léonard au nord de Liège, l’ensemble de logement des Forges, conçu par l’atelier Pierre Blondel Architectes, tisse des liens de Meuse à Coteaux et réinterprète les modes d’habiter pour offrir de multiples opportunités d’appropriation. [less ▲]

Initiatives populaires de solidarité internationale en Wallonie et à Bruxelles : portrait et enjeux d'une coopération à taille humaine

in Mondes en Développement (2013), 161(1), 19-32

Given the increasing number and the diversity of actors who today invest the field of development cooperation, we surveyed 171 popular initiatives of international solidarity in Wallonia and Brussels ... [more ▼]

Given the increasing number and the diversity of actors who today invest the field of development cooperation, we surveyed 171 popular initiatives of international solidarity in Wallonia and Brussels regions. This article aims to profile these actors and the issues they face in implementing their projects, as the one of professionalization which seems to be a key issue for the future. [less ▲]

Work ability assessment in a worker population : comparison and determinants of Work Ability index and Work Ability score

in BMC Public Health (2013), 13

Background Public authorities in European countries are paying increasing attention to the promotion of work ability throughout working life and the best method to monitor work ability in populations of ... [more ▼]

Background Public authorities in European countries are paying increasing attention to the promotion of work ability throughout working life and the best method to monitor work ability in populations of workers is becoming a significant question. The present study aims to compare the assessment of work ability based on the use of the Work Ability Index (WAI), a 7-item questionnaire, with another one based on the use of WAI’s first item, which consists in the worker’s self-assessment of his/her current work ability level as opposed to his/her lifetime best, this single question being termed “Work Ability score” (WAS). Methods Using a database created by an occupational health service, the study intends to answer the following questions: could the assessment of work ability be based on a single-item measure and which are the variables significantly associated with self-reported work ability among those systematically recorded by the occupational physician during health examinations? A logistic regression model was used in order to estimate the probability of observing “poor” or “moderate” WAI levels depending on age, gender, body mass index, smoking status, position held, firm size and diseases reported by the worker in a population of workers aged 40 to 65 and examined between January 2006 and June 2010 (n=12389). Results The convergent validity between WAS and WAI was statistically significant (rs=0.63). In the multivariable model, age (p<0.001), reported diseases (OR=1.13, 95%CI [1.11-1.15]) and holding a position mostly characterized by physical activity (OR=1.67, 95%CI [1.49-1.87]) increased the probability of reporting moderate or poor work ability. A work position characterized by the predominance of mental activity (OR=0.71, 95%CI [0.61-0.84]) had a favourable impact on work ability. These relations were observed regardless of the work ability measurement tool used. Conclusion The convergent validity and the similarity in results between WAI and WAS observed in a large population of employed workers should thus foster the use of WAS for systematic screening of work ability. Ageing, overweight, decline in health status, holding a mostly physical job and working in a large-sized firm increase the risk of presenting moderate or poor work ability. [less ▲]

Développer des compétences didactiques en sciences

in Education et Formation (2013), 298(2),

Numerical simulations of asperity crushing using boundary conditions encountered in cold-rolling

in Key Engineering Materials [=KEM] (2013), 554-557

Asperity flattening has a huge influence on friction and wear in metal forming processes. Nevertheless, phenomena that occur at the microscopic scale are still not well understood. Since no experiment can ... [more ▼]

Asperity flattening has a huge influence on friction and wear in metal forming processes. Nevertheless, phenomena that occur at the microscopic scale are still not well understood. Since no experiment can be easily performed in real forming conditions, numerical models are essential to achieve a better knowledge of what happens in these contact regions. In this paper, two finite elements models are presented. The first one represents the flattening of a serrated asperity field in plane-strain conditions. The results are compared to the experiments published by Sutcliffe [1]. The second one is a tri-dimensional asperity model flattened by a rigid plane. The boundary conditions applied to this model correspond to the ones encountered in a real cold-rolling case. The results are compared to the relative contact area computed by a strip rolling model using the analytical laws proposed by Wilson & Sheu [2] and Marsault [3]. [less ▲]

The effect of heterogeneity of diffusion parameters on chloride transport in low-permeability argillites

in Environmental Earth Sciences (2013), 68(7), 1835-1848

Understanding flow and transport in low-permeability media is very important in the context of nuclear waste disposal, oil and gas reservoirs and long term evolution of groundwater systems. In low ... [more ▼]

Understanding flow and transport in low-permeability media is very important in the context of nuclear waste disposal, oil and gas reservoirs and long term evolution of groundwater systems. In low-permeability media, transport by diffusion is often the most important mass transport process. This study investigates the effect of the heterogeneity of diffusion parameters on mass transport in low-permeability media. A geostatistical approach for integrating heterogeneity of diffusion parameters in groundwater flow and transport models is proposed and applied to the Toarcian argillites in France which are studied in the framework of feasibility of storing radioactive waste in deep clayey massifs. Stochastic fields of the diffusion parameters of the Toarcian argillites (France) are generated based on 64 measured values of diffusion coefficient and diffusion accessible porosity and used as input for a 3D local-scale groundwater flow and transport model. The chloride concentrations computed by these heterogeneous models are compared to the measured chloride concentrations and to concentrations calculated with a model in which the Toarcian argillites are subdivided into several homogeneous zones. The heterogeneous simulations result in a slightly better correspondence between measured and calculated values and have the additional advantage that the measured diffusion coefficient values in the Toarcian are perfectly honored in the model. This study shows that small-scale variability of diffusion parameters has a significant effect on solute concentrations and omitting this heterogeneity may be a problem in transport calculations in low-permeability media, depending on the specific setting and objectives of the study. [less ▲]

Trente ans de lutte contre le racisme en Belgique : bilan et perspectives

in Revue Nouvelle (2013), année 68(numéro 4),

Quelques éléments en faveur d’une réflexion psychopathologique sur la psychopathie : première partie

in Annales Médico-Psychologiques (2013), 171(3), 141-146

Objectives: The objectives of this study are to offer some clinical and semiological considerations for a psychopathological conception of psychopathy. In the first part the author provides a history of ... [more ▼]

Objectives: The objectives of this study are to offer some clinical and semiological considerations for a psychopathological conception of psychopathy. In the first part the author provides a history of this diagnosis (see Introduction of this paper) and a description of the current trends in the international literature: the contributions of R.D. Hare and the PCL-R, D.J. Cooke and the Comprehensive Assessment of Psychopathic Personality (CAPP) and T.H. Pham for French-speaking validations (subtitle 2 of this paper). After that, the author proposes a definition of psychopathology in the sense of Minkowski and Jaspers proposals (i.e. these latter come from the principles of the continental phenomenology) (subtitle 3 of this paper). Patients and methods : This theoretical essay is improved by clinical situations. The psychopaths were interviewed in prison or in forensic centers. The method used was a psychopathological analysis from the clinical material , as well as references to the phenomenological psychopathology (continental phenomenology) and the philosophy of J.-P. Sartre, M. Foucault and P. Ricoeur. Results: This study shows that it is useful to consider a psychopathological reflection on psychopathy and this approach gives a framework for the clinical investigations. Regarding that, the author proposes a first comparison between the binswangerian conception of mania and the psychopathic functioning (subtitle 4 of this paper). By this way, we can understand why many studies show a positive correlation between the scoring in the PCL-R and the scale of the MMPI mania. The behavior is similar but the difference is about the dialectic between the “ego” and the “alter ego”. The maniac has a fundamental crisis of the “ego”, which the psychopath does not have. A second finding of our investigations concerns emotions and the dimension of the adaptive psychopathic disorder (subtitle 5 of this paper). An epistemological discussion of the concept of emotions allows us to say that the psychopath is competent in the management of emotional stimuli, which confers a psychological advantage to him. In addition, fundamental research on the management of the emotional stimuli in the psychopath seems to confirm our hypothesis of an adaptive dimension for the psychopathic disorder. The last point we discuss is about “morality” and “ethics” for the psychopath (these notions are from the concepts of empathy and sympathy). On the basis of Foucault's distinction between these two concepts, it becomes possible to study these dimensions and integrate them in the practice of psychopathology. This proposal enables to introduce the concept of narrativity. This observation prompts the clinician to listen to the patient and to pay attention to how he has to tell himself. Conclusions: Our contribution shows that it is possible to conduct a study about the psychopathology of psychopathy. Our study is not intended to be complete and irrefutable. Our goal is rather to give some evidence for a psychopathological consideration on psychopathy (as indicated by the title of this paper). Finally, we offered some thoughts on the practice of psychotherapy by integrating the adaptive dimension of this disorder which, when it is missed, can lead to a psychotherapeutic stalemate. [less ▲]

Lorraine, Sarre, Wallonie et Luxembourg : Politique de psychiatrie et santé mentale

in Gestions Hospitalieres (2013), 524

Study of the Influence of Pure Ionic Liquids on the Lipase-catalyzed (Trans)esterification of Mannose Based on their Anion and Cation Nature

in Current Organic Chemistry (2013), 17

ÉPIDÉMIOLOGIE ET CARACTÉRISTIQUES DES CONVULSIONS FEBRILES DE L'ENFANT

in Revue Médicale de Liège (2013), 68(4), 180-185

Summary : Febrile Seizures (FS), despite their usual benign clinical course, are still subject of controversies regarding the need for further investigation and treatment with anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs ... [more ▼]

Summary : Febrile Seizures (FS), despite their usual benign clinical course, are still subject of controversies regarding the need for further investigation and treatment with anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). Our study aimed to inventory the clinical findings, laboratory and imaging data associated with FS and eventually influencing their management. 275 episodes admitted with FS at the emergency ward of the Liège CHR over a 5 year period were retrospectively analyzed regarding precipitating factors; clinical features; laboratory, electroencephalographic, and imaging studies; as well as treatment response. FS represented 1.4% of admissions to the pediatric service. 31.3% of patients had a family history of seizure disorder. 9% percent of seizures were focal, 11.7% recurrent, and 12.3% prolonged (greater than 10 minutes). Upper respiratory tract and otorhinolaryngologic viral infections were the most often implicated provoking factors, occurring in 69.5% of patients. Laboratory, electroencephalographic and radiographic studies were normal in more than 90% of cases. 73.8% of seizures resolved without intervention. An AED was required to manage the remaining 26.2%. This study confirms the favorable outcomes of FS as demonstrated in previous studies. This happens without requiring AEDs for resolution, and without recurrence. Laboratory, electroencephalographic and imaging studies, as well as initiation of AEDs should be based primarily on clinical severity. [less ▲]

Veille internet

in Mondes en Développement (2013), 161(1), 161-162

Internet resources on the topic of citizen participation in international cooperation.

La gestion de la qualité de l’air en Belgique : une gouvernance multiniveau entre incertitudes politiques et techniques

in Telescope (2013), 19(hiver),

La gouvernance de l’État belge est caractérisée par un double processus de reconfiguration : vers le haut, par les dynamiques d’européanisation, et vers le bas, par un processus de régionalisation ... [more ▼]

La gouvernance de l’État belge est caractérisée par un double processus de reconfiguration : vers le haut, par les dynamiques d’européanisation, et vers le bas, par un processus de régionalisation approfondi. Par exemple, le domaine de l’environnement est aujourd’hui régionalisé, mais de nombreuses décisions sont prises au niveau de l’Union européenne, dont les instances décisionnelles n’intègrent pas pleinement le fait régional. Cet article s’appuie sur une étude menée auprès des instances fédérales et régionales chargées de la gestion de la qualité de l’air en Belgique. La traduction du cadre européen demanderait le déploiement d’une approche transversale environnement-santé associant tous les niveaux de pouvoir, mais les répondants dénoncent l’absence d’intégration de ces politiques aux niveaux régional et fédéral. Chaque niveau de pouvoir développe une dynamique propre pour réinterpréter la politique et les instruments définis au niveau européen. [less ▲]

Substrate Marking by an Invasive Ladybeetle: Seasonal Changes in Hydrocarbon Composition and Behavioral Responses

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

The multicolored Asian ladybeetle, Harmonia axyridis (Pallas), aggregates inside dwellings during the winter to survive the cold. Recent published reports have highlighted that overwintering individuals ... [more ▼]

The multicolored Asian ladybeetle, Harmonia axyridis (Pallas), aggregates inside dwellings during the winter to survive the cold. Recent published reports have highlighted that overwintering individuals use hydrocarbon markings deposited on surfaces by conspecifics to orient toward aggregation sites. In the current study, monthly GC-MS analyses revealed seasonal modifications in the chemical profile of substrate markings deposited by moving individuals. The markings of overwintering ladybeetles contained larger proportions of heptacosadiene, nonacosadiene, hentriacontadienes, and methyl-nonacosanes, along with a lower proportion of heptacosene and nonacosene. This finding suggests the importance of the unsaturated and/or branched hydrocarbons in the H. axyridis aggregation process. Subsequently, we conducted behavioral assays to test whether (1) there is seasonal variation in the behavioral response of H. axyridis individuals toward substrate markings deposited by conspecifics in the same physiological state and (2) the observed behavioral modification is due to a change in ladybeetle sensitivity and/or a change in the chemical composition of the substrate marking. The results indicate that overwintering individuals exhibit a stronger ‘‘following’’ response toward conspecific substrate markings. This behavior is linked to both the physiological state of ladybeetles and the specific chemical profile of the marking biomolecules deposited under overwintering conditions. [less ▲]