Interplay between KLF4 and ZEB2/SIP1 in the regulation of E-cadherin expression.

in Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications (2013), 431(4), 652

E-cadherin expression is repressed by ZEB2/SIP1 while it is induced by KLF4. Independent data from the literature indicate that these two transcription factors could bind close to each other in the ... [more ▼]

E-cadherin expression is repressed by ZEB2/SIP1 while it is induced by KLF4. Independent data from the literature indicate that these two transcription factors could bind close to each other in the proximal region of the E-cadherin gene promoter. We have here explored a potential competition between ZEB2 and KLF4 for the binding to the E-cadherin promoter. We show an inverse correlation between ZEB2 expression levels and KLF4 recruitment on the E-cadherin promoter in three breast cancer cell lines and in A431/HA.ZEB2 cells in which ZEB2 expression is induced by doxycycline (DOX). We identified a region of the E-cadherin promoter bound by KLF4 which is necessary for the activation of the E-cadherin promoter activity after KLF4 overexpression. This region is localized between positions -28 and -10 and thus overlaps with one of the ZEB2 binding sites. Deleting the bipartite ZEB2 binding site results in increased KLF4 induced E-cadherin promoter activity. Taken together, our results suggest that E-cadherin expression in cancer cells is controlled by a balance between ZEB2 and KLF4 expression levels. [less ▲]

Group size of a permanent large group of agile mangabeys (Cercocebus agilis) at Bai Hokou, Central African Republic

in Folia Primatologica : International Journal of Primatology = Internationale Zeitschrift für Primatologie = Journal international de Primatologie (2013), 84

A cross-sectional study to assess knowledge about HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention measures in company workers in Ecuador

in BMC Public Health (2013), 13

Background: HIV/AIDS was first reported in Ecuador in 1984 and its prevalence has been increasing ever since. In 2009, the National AIDS Program reported 21,810 HIV/AIDS cases and confirmed that the ... [more ▼]

Background: HIV/AIDS was first reported in Ecuador in 1984 and its prevalence has been increasing ever since. In 2009, the National AIDS Program reported 21,810 HIV/AIDS cases and confirmed that the worker population was amongst the most affected groups. The objective of this study was to assess knowledge about HIV transmission and prevention measures in company workers in Ecuador. Methods: A cross-sectional survey based on a random sample of 115 companies (1,732 workers), stratified by three large provinces and working sectors (commerce, manufacturing and real estate) was conducted. A validated instrument developed by Family Health International was used to evaluate HIV prevention knowledge and common local misconceptions about HIV transmission. Descriptive statistics, chi square test and logistic regression analysis were performed using SAS. Results: Incorrect knowledge about HIV/AIDS transmission were found in 49.1% (95% CI: 46.6-51.6) of subjects. Incorrect knowledge was higher among males (OR=1.73 [1.39 –2.15]), older subjects (OR=1.35 [1.02 – 1.77]), subjects with lower education (OR=3.72 [2.44 – 5.65]), manual labor workers (OR=2.93 [1.82 – 4.73]) and subjects without previous exposure to HIV intervention programs (OR=2.26 [1.79 – 2.86]). Incorrect knowledge about preventive measures was found among 32.9% (95%CI: 30.6-35.2) of respondents. This proportion was higher among subjects with lower education (OR=2.28 [1.52 – 3.43]), married subjects (OR=1.34 [1.07 – 1.68]), manual labor workers (OR=1.80 [1.34 – 2.42]), and subjects not previously exposed to HIV intervention programs (OR=1.44 [1.14 – 1.83]). Conclusions: HIV intervention programs targeting company workers are urgently needed to improve knowledge and reduce HIV transmission in Ecuador. [less ▲]

Comment on Freemantle et al. : Results of indirect and mixed treatment comparison of fracture efficacy for osteoporosis treatements

in Osteoporosis International (2013)

Picturing Transcendance

in Image and Narrative. (2013), 13(4), 1-14

This paper will examine how two different media, painting and photography, respond inrepresenting the same theme: the theme of religion and transcendence. Four different culturalobjects will be studied in ... [more ▼]

This paper will examine how two different media, painting and photography, respond inrepresenting the same theme: the theme of religion and transcendence. Four different culturalobjects will be studied in this light: 1) religious painting, 2) artistic photography with a religioustheme, 3) devotional photography that is transformed into holy images, and 4) the Russian icon. Wewill analyse the filtering effect of these two media in the representation of religious themes. We willseek to explain why the religious theme in painting has been able to assume a sacred dimensionwhich, by contrast, seems unachievable in contemporary artistic photography. [less ▲]

Current crowding effects in superconducting corner-shaped Al microstrips

in Applied Physics Letters (2013)

The superconducting critical current of corner-shaped Al superconducting microstrips has been investigated. We demonstrate that the sharp turns lead to asymmetric vortex dynamics, allowing for easier ... [more ▼]

The superconducting critical current of corner-shaped Al superconducting microstrips has been investigated. We demonstrate that the sharp turns lead to asymmetric vortex dynamics, allowing for easier penetration from the inner concave angle than from the outer convex angle. This effect is evidenced by a rectification of the voltage signal otherwise absent in straight superconducting strips. At low magnetic fields, an enhancement of the critical current with increasing magnetic field is observed for a particular combination of field and current polarity, confirming a theoretically predicted competing interplay of superconducting screening currents and applied currents at the inner side of the turn. [less ▲]

MOA-2010-BLG-523: "Failed Planet" = RS CVn Star

in Astrophysical Journal (2013), 763

The Galactic bulge source MOA-2010-BLG-523S exhibited short-term deviations from a standard microlensing light curve near the peak of an A [SUB]max[/SUB] ~ 265 high-magnification microlensing event. The ... [more ▼]

The Galactic bulge source MOA-2010-BLG-523S exhibited short-term deviations from a standard microlensing light curve near the peak of an A [SUB]max[/SUB] ~ 265 high-magnification microlensing event. The deviations originally seemed consistent with expectations for a planetary companion to the principal lens. We combine long-term photometric monitoring with a previously published high-resolution spectrum taken near peak to demonstrate that this is an RS CVn variable, so that planetary microlensing is not required to explain the light-curve deviations. This is the first spectroscopically confirmed RS CVn star discovered in the Galactic bulge. Based on observations made with the European Southern Observatory telescopes, Program ID 85.B-0399(I). [less ▲]

A Detailed X-Ray Investigation of ζ Puppis. II. The Variability on Short and Long Timescales

in The Astrophysical Journal (2013), 763

Stellar winds are a crucial component of massive stars, but their exact properties still remain uncertain. To shed some light on this subject, we have analyzed an exceptional set of X-ray observations of ... [more ▼]

Stellar winds are a crucial component of massive stars, but their exact properties still remain uncertain. To shed some light on this subject, we have analyzed an exceptional set of X-ray observations of ζ Puppis, one of the closest and brightest massive stars. The sensitive light curves that were derived reveal two major results. On the one hand, a slow modulation of the X-ray flux (with a relative amplitude of up to 15% over 16 hr in the 0.3-4.0 keV band) is detected. Its characteristic timescale cannot be determined with precision, but amounts from one to several days. It could be related to corotating interaction regions, known to exist in ζ Puppis from UV observations. Hour-long changes, linked to flares or to the pulsation activity, are not observed in the last decade covered by the XMM observations; the 17 hr tentative period, previously reported in a ROSAT analysis, is not confirmed either and is thus transient, at best. On the other hand, short-term changes are surprisingly small (<1% relative amplitude for the total energy band). In fact, they are compatible solely with the presence of Poisson noise in the data. This surprisingly low level of short-term variability, in view of the embedded wind-shock origin, requires a very high fragmentation of the stellar wind, for both absorbing and emitting features (>10[SUP]5[/SUP] parcels, comparing with a two-dimensional wind model). This is the first time that constraints have been placed on the number of clumps in an O-type star wind and from X-ray observations. Based on observations collected with XMM-Newton, an ESA Science Mission with instruments and contributions directly funded by ESA Member States and the USA (NASA). [less ▲]

Cost-effectiveness of strontium ranelate in the treatment of male osteoporosis.

in Osteoporosis international : a journal established as result of cooperation between the European Foundation for Osteoporosis and the National Osteoporosis Foundation of the USA (2013)

The results of this study suggest that, under the assumption of same relative risk reduction of fractures in men as for women, strontium ranelate could be considered a cost-effective strategy compared ... [more ▼]

The results of this study suggest that, under the assumption of same relative risk reduction of fractures in men as for women, strontium ranelate could be considered a cost-effective strategy compared with no treatment for the treatment of osteoporotic men from a Belgian healthcare payer perspective. INTRODUCTION: This study was conducted to estimate the cost-effectiveness of strontium ranelate in the treatment of osteoporotic men. METHODS: A previously validated Markov microsimulation model was adapted to estimate the cost (<euro>2,010) per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained of strontium ranelate compared with no treatment. Similar efficacy data on lumbar spine and femoral neck bone mineral density (BMD) between men with osteoporosis at high risk of fracture (MALEO Trial) and postmenopausal osteoporotic women (pivotal SOTI, TROPOS trials) supports the assumption, in the base-case analysis, of the same relative risk reduction of fractures in men as for women. Analyses were conducted, from a Belgian healthcare payer perspective, in the population from the MALEO Trial who is a men population with a mean age of 73 years, and BMD T-score </=-2.5 or prevalent vertebral fracture (PVF). RESULTS: In the MALEO population, strontium ranelate compared with no treatment was estimated at <euro>49,798 and <euro>25,584 per QALY gained using efficacy data from the intent-to-treat analysis and the per-protocol analysis including only adherent patients, respectively. In men with a BMD T-score </=-2.5 or with PVF, the cost per QALY gained of strontium ranelate fall below thresholds of <euro>45,000 and <euro>25,000 per QALY gained based on efficacy data from the entire population of the clinical trial and from the per-protocol analyses, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study suggest that, under the assumption of same relative risk reduction of fractures in men as for women, strontium ranelate could be considered cost-effective compared with no treatment for male osteoporosis. [less ▲]

The 2.35 year itch of Cyg OB2 #9. II. Radio monitoring

in Astronomy and Astrophysics (2013), 550

Cyg OB2 #9 is one of a small set of non-thermal radio emitting massive O-star binaries. The non-thermal radiation is due to synchrotron emission in the colliding-wind region. Cyg OB2 #9 was only recently ... [more ▼]

Cyg OB2 #9 is one of a small set of non-thermal radio emitting massive O-star binaries. The non-thermal radiation is due to synchrotron emission in the colliding-wind region. Cyg OB2 #9 was only recently discovered to be a binary system and a multiwavelength campaign was organized to study its 2011 periastron passage. We want to better determine the parameters of this system and model the wind-wind collision. This will lead to a better understanding of the Fermi mechanism that accelerates electrons up to relativistic speeds in shocks, and its occurrence in colliding-wind binaries. We report here on the results of the radio observations obtained in the monitoring campaign and present a simple model to interpret the data. We used the Expanded Very Large Array (EVLA) radio interferometer to obtain 6 and 20 cm continuum fluxes during the Cyg OB2 #9 periastron passage in 2011. We introduce a simple model to solve the radiative transfer in the stellar winds and the colliding-wind region, and thus determine the expected behaviour of the radio light curve. The observed radio light curve shows a steep drop in flux sometime before periastron. The fluxes drop to a level that is comparable to the expected free-free emission from the stellar winds, suggesting that the non-thermal emitting region is completely hidden at that time. After periastron passage, the fluxes slowly increase. We use the asymmetry of the light curve to show that the primary has the stronger wind. This is somewhat unexpected if we use the astrophysical parameters based on theoretical calibrations. But it becomes entirely feasible if we take into account that a given spectral type – luminosity class combination covers a range of astrophysical parameters. The colliding-wind region also contributes to the free-free emission, which can help to explain the high values of the spectral index seen after periastron passage. Combining our data with older Very Large Array (VLA) data allows us to derive a period P = 860:0 3:7 days for this system. With this period, we update the orbital parameters that were derived in the first paper of this series. A simple model introduced to explain only the radio data already allows some constraints to be put on the parameters of this binary system. Future, more sophisticated, modelling that will also include optical, X-ray and interferometric information will provide even better constraints. [less ▲]

TIC et innovation dans les pratiques enseignantes au Cameroun

in Frantice.net (2013), (6), 5-21

Cet article étudie l’innovation technologique dans les pratiques enseignantes au Cameroun. Il rend ainsi compte des pratiques techno-pédagogiques, à partir de l’examen d’une série de 84 entrevues menées ... [more ▼]

Cet article étudie l’innovation technologique dans les pratiques enseignantes au Cameroun. Il rend ainsi compte des pratiques techno-pédagogiques, à partir de l’examen d’une série de 84 entrevues menées avec des enseignants issus de sept établissements pilotes d’intégration pédagogique des TIC. Dans ce contexte, l’innovation s’intègre davantage dans la recherche documentaire et la préparation des cours. Les autres tâches techno-pédagogiques apparaissent alors minoritaires. De façon générale, considérées comme outils pédagogiques, les TIC n’occupent pas encore une place centrale en enseignement-apprentissage dans ce contexte. Cela pose alors la question de l’équipement technologique des écoles et de la formation techno-pédagogique des enseignants dans une perspective qui allie à la fois diffusion, adoption et appropriation des technologies. [less ▲]

Classification performance resulting from of 2-means

in Journal of Statistical Planning & Inference (2013), 143(2), 408-418

The k-means procedure is probably one of the most common nonhierachical clustering techniques. From a theoretical point of view, it is related to the search for the k principal points of the underlying ... [more ▼]

The k-means procedure is probably one of the most common nonhierachical clustering techniques. From a theoretical point of view, it is related to the search for the k principal points of the underlying distribution. In this paper, the classification resulting from that procedure for k=2 is shown to be optimal under a balanced mixture of two spherically symmetric and homoscedastic distributions. Then, the classification efficiency of the 2-means rule is assessed using the second order influence function and compared to the classification efficiencies of the Fisher and logistic discriminations. Influence functions are also considered here to compare the robustness to infinitesimal contamination of the 2-means method w.r.t. the generalized 2-means technique. [less ▲]

Mode visibilities in rapidly rotating stars

in Astronomy and Astrophysics (2013), 550

Context: Mode identification is a crucial step to comparing observed frequencies with theoretical ones, but has proven to be difficult in rapidly rotating stars. Aims: To further constrain mode ... [more ▼]

Context: Mode identification is a crucial step to comparing observed frequencies with theoretical ones, but has proven to be difficult in rapidly rotating stars. Aims: To further constrain mode identification, we aim to accurately calculate mode visibilities and amplitude ratios in rapid rotators. Methods: We derive the relevant equations for calculating mode visibilities in different photometric bands while fully taking into account the geometric distortion from both the centrifugal deformation and the pulsation modes, the variations in effective gravity, and an approximate treatment of the temperature variations. These equations are then applied to 2D oscillation modes, calculated using the TOP code, in fully distorted 2D models based on the SCF method. The specific intensities come from a grid of Kurucz atmospheres, thereby taking into account limb and gravity darkening. Results: We obtain mode visibilities and amplitude ratios for 2 M_{\odot} models rotating at 0 to 80 % of the critical rotation rate. These calculations confirm previous results, such as the increased visibility of chaotic modes, the simpler frequency spectra of pole-on stars, or the dependence of amplitude ratios on inclination and azimuthal order. In addition, the geometric shape of the star reduces the contrast between pole-on and equator-on visibilities of island modes. We also show that modes with similar (ell, |m|) values frequently have similar amplitude ratios, even in the most rapidly rotating models. [less ▲]

Flow abilities of powders and granular materials evidenced from dynamical tap density measurement

in Powder Technology (2013), 235

This paper offers an overview of the flow properties of granular systems, including voids, granular porosity and random packing characteristics. For the purposes of the study, the notion of additional ... [more ▼]

This paper offers an overview of the flow properties of granular systems, including voids, granular porosity and random packing characteristics. For the purposes of the study, the notion of additional porous volume is intro-duced. This volume is defined as the additional air volume added to the optimal granular packing. It represents the difference between the volume of the bulk powder bed and that of the same powder but when ideally packed. It appears as the volume of additional air (or voids) trapped/stored between the grains when the powder passes from a dynamical state to a static state (during the filling of a container or the formation of a powder heap, for example). Therefore, if the powder bed traps air, it is then able to restore air partially or completely or not at all, depending on the intergranular cohesion level. This mechanism of the storing and releasing of air can be analysed from the measurement of compressibility curves. If the powder is non-cohesive or free flowing, it traps a small amount of air in its static state. Conversely, if the powder is cohesive, it traps more air. These data can be related to the flow properties of granular materials. Indeed, the compressibility curves obtained for gran-ular materials provide information such as additional porosity, a kinetic parameter which characterizes the com-pressibility dynamics, a granular relaxation index which predicts how far a powder is from its optimal packing state and an index which gauges the de-areation speed of the powder. Measurement of such properties provides a better understanding of the nature of granular materials. Measurements of dynamical compressibility were car-ried out on five granular materials (two different lactose powders, hydrated lime Ca(OH)2, yttrium stabilized zir-conia balls and polystyrene balls). The overall results are presented using a radar graph. The use of this tool and its advantages are discussed in relation to the measurement and characterization of powder flow properties. [less ▲]

Geometric minimization of highly symmetric potentials

in Journal of High Energy Physics [=JHEP] (2013), 2013

In non-minimal Higgs mechanisms, one often needs to minimize highly symmetric Higgs potentials. Here we propose a geometric way of doing it, which, surprisingly, is often much more efficient than the ... [more ▼]

In non-minimal Higgs mechanisms, one often needs to minimize highly symmetric Higgs potentials. Here we propose a geometric way of doing it, which, surprisingly, is often much more efficient than the usual method. By construction, it gives the global minimum for any set of free parameters of the potential, thus offering an intuitive understanding of how they affect the vacuum expectation values. For illustration, we apply this method to the S_4 and A_4-symmetric three-Higgs-doublet models. We find that at least three recent phenomenological analyses of the A_4-symmetric model used a local, not the global minimum. We discuss coexistence of minima of different types, and comment on the mathematical origin of geometrical CP-violation and on a new symmetry linking different minima. [less ▲]

Tumor microenvironment converts plasmacytoid dendritic cells into immunosuppressive/tolerogenic cells: insight into the molecular mechanisms

in Journal of Leukocyte Biology (2013), 93

Human pDCs represent a rare population of circulating cells characterized by a rapid and massive TLR-dependent secretion of type I IFN in response to pathogenic agents or danger signals. Through their ... [more ▼]

Human pDCs represent a rare population of circulating cells characterized by a rapid and massive TLR-dependent secretion of type I IFN in response to pathogenic agents or danger signals. Through their capacity to bring together innate and adaptive immunity and to secrete soluble factors controlling cancer development, these cells could represent important actors in antitumor immunity. However, accumulating evidence suggests that pDCs recruited to the tumor microenvironment often display a nonactivated state and are associated with the development and maintenance of immunosuppression. Here, we present an overview of neoplastic lesions associated with an infiltration of immunosuppressive/ tolerogenic pDC. Moreover, as the proper response of pDC against cancer depends on a critical balance between immune-activating and immune-suppressing mechanisms, we summarize current knowledge about the molecular pathways developed by tumors to prevent antitumoral pDC immune responses. A better understanding of the mechanisms regulating pDC function in tumors could aid in the development of new therapies. Indeed, effective cancer vaccines or therapies could combine immunoactivating strategies (i.e., TLR agonists) with elimination of immune-suppressing mechanisms, leading to pDC reprogramming and thus, allowing tumor rejection in a clinical setting. [less ▲]

Satellite-Based Collision Avoidance System

in ATZelektronik worldwide (2013), 01/2013

Currently the RWTH Aachen University is developing a collision avoidance system (CAS) using Galileo data within the framework of the project ‘Galileo above’ (application centre for ground based traffic ... [more ▼]

Currently the RWTH Aachen University is developing a collision avoidance system (CAS) using Galileo data within the framework of the project ‘Galileo above’ (application centre for ground based traffic). The needed Galileo-signals are emitted by so-called pseudolites (pseudo-satellites) installed on the automotiveGATE. The research project is sponsored by the Space Agency of the German Aero-space Centre (DLR) with funding by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology, in compliance with a resolution of the German Parliament (pro-ject/grant no. 50 NA 0902). This paper will give some de-tails on the perception and sensor fusion, the de-escalation and intervention decision as well as on first testing results regarding rear-end collisions. [less ▲]

Optimal discovery with probabilistic expert advice: finite time analysis and macroscopic optimality

in Journal of Machine Learning Research (2013), 14

We consider an original problem that arises from the issue of security analysis of a power system and that we name optimal discovery with probabilistic expert advice. We address it with an algorithm based ... [more ▼]

We consider an original problem that arises from the issue of security analysis of a power system and that we name optimal discovery with probabilistic expert advice. We address it with an algorithm based on the optimistic paradigm and on the Good-Turing missing mass estimator. We prove two different regret bounds on the performance of this algorithm under weak assumptions on the probabilistic experts. Under more restrictive hypotheses, we also prove a macroscopic optimality result, comparing the algorithm both with an oracle strategy and with uniform sampling. Finally, we provide numerical experiments illustrating these theoretical findings. [less ▲]

Unmanned aerial survey of elephants

in PLoS ONE (2013), 8(2),

The use of a UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) was tested to survey large mammals in the Nazinga Game Ranch in the south of Burkina Faso. The Gatewing ×100™ equipped with a Ricoh GR III camera was used to ... [more ▼]

The use of a UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) was tested to survey large mammals in the Nazinga Game Ranch in the south of Burkina Faso. The Gatewing ×100™ equipped with a Ricoh GR III camera was used to test animal reaction as the UAS passed, and visibility on the images. No reaction was recorded as the UAS passed at a height of 100 m. Observations, made on a set of more than 7000 images, revealed that only elephants (Loxodonta africana) were easily visible while medium and small sized mammals were not. The easy observation of elephants allows experts to enumerate them on images acquired at a height of 100 m. We, therefore, implemented an aerial strip sample count along transects used for the annual wildlife foot count. A total of 34 elephants were recorded on 4 transects, each overflown twice. The elephant density was estimated at 2.47 elephants/km2 with a coefficient of variation (CV%) of 36.10%. The main drawback of our UAS was its low autonomy (45 min). Increased endurance of small UAS is required to replace manned aircraft survey of large areas (about 1000 km of transect per day vs 40 km for our UAS). The monitoring strategy should be adapted according to the sampling plan. Also, the UAS is as expensive as a second-hand light aircraft. However the logistic and flight implementation are easier, the running costs are lower and its use is safer. Technological evolution will make civil UAS more efficient, allowing them to compete with light aircraft for aerial wildlife surveys. [less ▲]

Estimating The Cost of Improving Quality in Electricity Distribution: A Parametric Distance Function Approach

in Energy Policy (2013), 53

The quality of electricity distribution is being more and more scrutinized by regulatory authorities, with explicit reward and penalty schemes based on quality targets having been introduced in many ... [more ▼]

The quality of electricity distribution is being more and more scrutinized by regulatory authorities, with explicit reward and penalty schemes based on quality targets having been introduced in many countries (France, Germany, Italy, UK,...). It is then of prime importance to know the cost of improving the quality for a distribution system operator. In this paper, we focus on one dimension of quality, the continuity of supply, and we estimated the cost of preventing power outages. For that, we make use of the parametric distance function approach, assuming that outages enter in the firm production set as an input, an imperfect substitute for maintenance activities and capital investment. This allows us to identify the sources of technical inefficiency and the underlying trade-­‐off faced by operators between quality and other inputs and costs. For this purpose, we use panel data on 92 electricity distribution units operated by ERDF (Electricité de France - Réseau Distribution) in the 2003–2005 financial years. Assuming a multi-output multi-input translog technology, we estimate that the cost of preventing one interruption varies substantily among the distribution units from 2.7 € to 15.7 €. Furthermore, as one would expect, marginal quality improvements tend to be more expensive as quality itself improves. [less ▲]

Consumption of Immature Stages of Colorado Potato Beetle by Chrysoperla Carnea (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) Larvae in the Laboratory

in American Journal of Potato Research (2013), 90(1), 51-57

The Colorado potato beetle (CPB), Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say), has been an important defoliator of potatoes for 150 years. Although the use of insecticides allowed drastic reductions of CPB ... [more ▼]

The Colorado potato beetle (CPB), Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say), has been an important defoliator of potatoes for 150 years. Although the use of insecticides allowed drastic reductions of CPB populations, resistance development against active substances has been observed. In this context, biological control using predatory larvae of the lacewing may represent a good alternative. CPB egg and larval consumption rates have been evaluated for all Chrysoperla carnea (Stephens) instars for 24 h. While first and second C. carnea instars only consumed eggs (1.3 and 1.8), first (1.5 and 2.4) and second (0.6 and 0.8) CPB instars, third instar of lacewing consumed all CPB immature stages: 6.8 CPB eggs, 8.5 first, 4 s, 0.5 third and 0.1 fourth CPB instars. This third instar killed 4-fold more CPB larvae than other larval stages. Handling time for third instar lacewing has been evaluated at 52 min on first instar CPB, 102 min on second instar and 164 min on third instar. Our laboratory assays highlight a potential for lacewing larvae to control CPB immature stages with a greater efficiency on young CPB larval stages. Fields assays are however needed to confirm efficiency of this CPB natural enemy under field conditions. [less ▲]

Cour de justice : nouvelles règles de procédure

in Journal de Droit Européen [=JDE] (2013), 2

Brève synthèse du nouveau règlement de procédure de la Cour de justice de l'Union européenne (entré en vigueur le 1er novembre 2012)

Towards the end of the uniform - Comprehensive approach to basic officer training

in The European Security and Defence Union (2013), 15

Garrouste et al. reply

in Nature (2013), 488

Classification of finite reparametrization symmetry groups in the three-Higgs-doublet model

in European Physical Journal C -- Particles & Fields (2013), 73

Symmetries play a crucial role in electroweak symmetry breaking models with non-minimal Higgs content. Within each class of these models, it is desirable to know which symmetry groups can be implemented ... [more ▼]

Symmetries play a crucial role in electroweak symmetry breaking models with non-minimal Higgs content. Within each class of these models, it is desirable to know which symmetry groups can be implemented via the scalar sector. In N-Higgs-doublet models, this classification problem was solved only for N=2 doublets. Very recently, we suggested a method to classify all realizable finite symmetry groups of Higgs-family transformations in the three-Higgs-doublet model (3HDM). Here, we present this classification in all detail together with an introduction to the theory of solvable groups, which play the key role in our derivation. We also consider generalized-CP symmetries, and discuss the interplay between Higgs-family symmetries and CP-conservation. In particular, we prove that presence of the $Z_4$ symmetry guarantees the explicit CP-conservation of the potential. This work completes classification of finite reparametrization symmetry groups in 3HDM. [less ▲]

Urban sprawl, commuting and travel energy consumption

in Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers. Energy (2013), 166

Commuting to and from dense urban centres is often believed to be more energy efficient than commuting from more suburban areas. However, quantitative evidence is lacking. In this context, this paper ... [more ▼]

Commuting to and from dense urban centres is often believed to be more energy efficient than commuting from more suburban areas. However, quantitative evidence is lacking. In this context, this paper investigates the interactions between the spatial structure of the territory and transport energy consumption for commuting. Based on empirical surveys carried out every 10 years in Belgium, a quantitative method was developed and applied to assess energy efficiency of home-to-work and home-to-school travels. Our main findings highlight that urban structure acts upon travel energy consumption for commuting and that major cities present low energy consumption. However, a local-scale approach is useful for refining these observations, and this approach highlights the existence of secondary suburban and rural cores that also are characterized by low transport energy consumption. In this respect, the distance from home to a destination is paramount, whereas the mode of transport used has a lower impact. The method is parameterised and reproducible in other territories. [less ▲]

Nouvelles perspectives pour l’alimentation des prématurés et leur croissance postnatale

in Revue Médicale de Liège (2013), 68(2), 79-85

Monitoring delivery chains using multivariate control charts

in European Journal of Operational Research (2013)

Delivery chains are concerned with the delivery of goods and services to customers within a specific time interval; this time constraint is added to the usual consumer demand for product or service ... [more ▼]

Delivery chains are concerned with the delivery of goods and services to customers within a specific time interval; this time constraint is added to the usual consumer demand for product or service quality. In this context, we address the idea of using process control tools to monitor this key variable of delivery time. In applications, there are usually several production and delivery sites and a variety of different ways to transport, treat and provide goods and services; that makes the problem multivariate in nature. We therefore propose to control the process using multivariate T2 control charts economically designed with the addition of statistical constraints, a design method called economic-statistical design. We illustrate the application in general through an illustrative example. [less ▲]

Reanalysis of “Bedside detection of awareness in the vegetative state: a cohort study”

in Lancet (2013), 381

Principal static wind loads

in Journal of Wind Engineering & Industrial Aerodynamics (2013), 113

In current wind design practice, static wind loads are usually defined to obtain, by simple static analyses, the extreme values of any structural response that would be formally obtained with a strict ... [more ▼]

In current wind design practice, static wind loads are usually defined to obtain, by simple static analyses, the extreme values of any structural response that would be formally obtained with a strict dynamic buffeting analysis. The minimum and maximum values that may reach any response define the envelope. Equivalent static wind loads (ESWLs) allow to recover extreme responses in the envelope. As a first objective, this paper formalizes a general method to determine ESWL, in a nodal basis, by extending the concept of load-response correlation, which is only valid in the background range. The general method, the displacement-response-correlation (DRC) method, covers the background and resonant contributions of the considered response. As a second objective, the paper addresses the problem of building a set of static wind loads that adequately reconstructs the envelopes of responses. The concept of principal static wind loads (PSWL) is introduced to form a reduced basis of representative loads well-suited for envelope reconstruction. Its optimality is demonstrated both analytically and with a detailed illustrative example. [less ▲]

Deep sequencing reveals abundant non-canonical retroviral microRNAs in B-cell leukemia/lymphoma

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

Viral tumor models have significantly contributed to our understanding of oncogenic mechanisms. How transforming delta-retroviruses induce malignancy however remains poorly understood, especially as viral ... [more ▼]

Viral tumor models have significantly contributed to our understanding of oncogenic mechanisms. How transforming delta-retroviruses induce malignancy however remains poorly understood, especially as viral mRNA/protein are tightly silenced in tumors. Here, using deep sequencing of broad windows of small RNA sizes in the Bovine Leukemia Virus ovine model of leukemia/lymphoma, we provide in vivo evidence of the production of non-canonical Pol IIItranscribed viral microRNAs in leukemic B-cells in the complete absence of Pol II 5’ LTR-driven transcriptional activity. Processed from a cluster of five independent self-sufficient transcriptional units located in a proviral region dispensable for in vivo infectivity, BLV microRNAs represent ~ 40 % of all microRNAs in both experimental and natural malignancy. They are subject to strong purifying selection and associate with Argonautes, consistent with a critical function in silencing of important cellular and/or viral targets. BLV microRNAs are strongly expressed in preleukemic and malignant cells in which structural and regulatory gene expression is repressed, suggesting a key role in tumor onset and progression. Understanding how Pol III-dependent microRNAs subvert cellular and viral pathways will contribute in deciphering the intricate perturbations that underlie malignant transformation. [less ▲]

Modeling of joints with clearance and friction in multibody dynamic simulation of automotive differentials

in Theoretical and Applied Mechanics Letters (2013), 3(1), 013003

Defects in kinematic joints can sometimes highly influence the simulation response of the whole multibody system within which these joints are included. For instance, the clearance, the friction, the ... [more ▼]

Defects in kinematic joints can sometimes highly influence the simulation response of the whole multibody system within which these joints are included. For instance, the clearance, the friction, the lubrication and the flexibility affect the transient behaviour, reduce the component life and produce noise and vibration for classical joints such as prismatics, cylindrics or universal joints. In this work, a new 3D cylindrical joint model which accounts for the clearance, the misalignment and the friction is presented. This formulation has been used to represent the link between the planet gears and the planet carrier in an automotive differential model. [less ▲]

ESC working group on valvular heart disease position paper-heart valve clinics: organization, structure, and experiences

in European Heart Journal (2013)

Future projections of the Greenland ice sheet energy balance driving the surface melt

in Cryosphere (The) (2013), 7

In this study, simulations at 25 km resolution are performed over the Greenland ice sheet (GrIS) throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, using the regional climate model MAR forced by four RCP scenarios ... [more ▼]

In this study, simulations at 25 km resolution are performed over the Greenland ice sheet (GrIS) throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, using the regional climate model MAR forced by four RCP scenarios from three CMIP5 global circulation models (GCMs), in order to investigate the projected changes of the surface energy balance (SEB) components driving the surface melt. Analysis of 2000–2100 melt anomalies compared to melt results over 1980–1999 reveals an exponential relationship of the GrIS surface melt rate simulated by MAR to the near-surface air temperature (TAS) anomalies, mainly due to the surface albedo positive feedback associated with the extension of bare ice areas in summer. On the GrIS margins, the future melt anomalies are preferentially driven by stronger sensible heat fluxes, induced by enhanced warm air advection over the ice sheet. Over the central dry snow zone, the surface albedo positive feedback induced by the increase in summer melt exceeds the negative feedback of heavier snowfall for TAS anomalies higher than 4 °C. In addition to the incoming longwave flux increase associated with the atmosphere warming, GCM-forced MAR simulations project an increase of the cloud cover decreasing the ratio of the incoming shortwave versus longwave radiation and dampening the albedo feedback. However, it should be noted that this trend in the cloud cover is contrary to that simulated by ERA-Interim–forced MAR for recent climate conditions, where the observed melt increase since the 1990s seems mainly to be a consequence of more anticyclonic atmospheric conditions. Finally, no significant change is projected in the length of the melt season, which highlights the importance of solar radiation absorbed by the ice sheet surface in the melt SEB. [less ▲]

Effects of the Coriolis force on high-order g modes in γ Doradus stars

in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society (2013)

γ Doradus stars pulsate with high-order gravity modes having typical frequencies which can be comparable to or higher than their rotation frequencies. Therefore, rotation has a non-negligible effect on ... [more ▼]

γ Doradus stars pulsate with high-order gravity modes having typical frequencies which can be comparable to or higher than their rotation frequencies. Therefore, rotation has a non-negligible effect on their oscillation properties. To explore the rotation-pulsation coupling in γ Dor stars, we perform a non-adiabatic study including the traditional approximation of rotation on a grid of spherical stellar models covering the mass range 1.4 < M[SUB]*[/SUB] < 2.1 M[SUB]&sun;[/SUB]. This approximation allows us to treat the effect of the Coriolis force on the frequencies and the stability of high-order g modes. The effect of the Coriolis force depends on the kind of mode considered (prograde sectoral or not) and increases with their periods. As a consequence, we first find that the period spacing between modes is no longer periodically oscillating around a constant value. Secondly, we show that the frequency gap (5-15 cycles day[SUP]-1[/SUP]) arising from stable modes between γ Dor-type high-order g modes and δ Scuti-type modes can be easily filled by g-mode frequencies shifted to higher values by the rotation. Thirdly, we analyse the combined effect of diffusive mixing and the Coriolis force on the period spacings. And finally, we predict a slight broadening of the γ Dor instability strip. [less ▲]

Galileo Single Frequency Ionospheric Correction: Performances in Terms of Position

in GPS Solutions (2013), 17(1), 63-73

For GPS single frequency users, the ionospheric contribution to the error budget is estimated by the well-known Klobuchar algorithm. For Galileo, it will be mitigated by a global algorithm based on the ... [more ▼]

For GPS single frequency users, the ionospheric contribution to the error budget is estimated by the well-known Klobuchar algorithm. For Galileo, it will be mitigated by a global algorithm based on the NeQuick model. This algorithm relies on the adaptation of the model to slant Total Electron Content (sTEC) measurements. Although the performance specifications of these algorithms are expressed in terms of delay and TEC, the users might be more interested in their impact on positioning. Therefore, we assessed the ability of the algorithms to improve the positioning accuracy using globally distributed permanent stations for the year 2002 marked by a high level of solar activity. We present uncorrected and corrected performances, interpret these and identify potential causes for Galileo correction discrepancies. We show vertical errors dropping by 56–64 % due to the analyzed ionospheric corrections, but horizontal errors decreasing by 27 % at most. By means of a fictitious symmetric satellite distribution, we highlight the role of TEC gradients in residual errors. We describe mechanisms permitted by the Galileo correction, which combine sTEC adaptation and topside mismodeling, and limit the horizontal accuracy. Hence, we support further investigation of potential alternative ionospheric corrections. We also provide an interesting insight into the ionospheric effects possibly experienced during the next solar maximum coinciding with Galileo Initial Operation Capability. [less ▲]

Spitzer 3.6 micron and 4.5 micron full-orbit lightcurves of WASP-18

in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society (2013), 428(3), 2645-2660

We present new lightcurves of the massive hot Jupiter system WASP-18 obtained with the Spitzer spacecraft covering the entire orbit at 3.6 micron and 4.5 micron. These lightcurves are used to measure the ... [more ▼]

We present new lightcurves of the massive hot Jupiter system WASP-18 obtained with the Spitzer spacecraft covering the entire orbit at 3.6 micron and 4.5 micron. These lightcurves are used to measure the amplitude, shape and phase of the thermal phase effect for WASP-18b. We find that our results for the thermal phase effect are limited to an accuracy of about 0.01% by systematic noise sources of unknown origin. At this level of accuracy we find that the thermal phase effect has a peak-to-peak amplitude approximately equal to the secondary eclipse depth, has a sinusoidal shape and that the maximum brightness occurs at the same phase as mid-occultation to within about 5 degrees at 3.6 micron and to within about 10 degrees at 4.5 micron. The shape and amplitude of the thermal phase curve imply very low levels of heat redistribution within the atmosphere of the planet. We also perform a separate analysis to determine the system geometry by fitting a lightcurve model to the data covering the occultation and the transit. The secondary eclipse depths we measure at 3.6 micron and 4.5 micron are in good agreement with previous measurements and imply a very low albedo for WASP-18b. The parameters of the system (masses, radii, etc.) derived from our analysis are in also good agreement with those from previous studies, but with improved precision. We use new high-resolution imaging and published limits on the rate of change of the mean radial velocity to check for the presence of any faint companion stars that may affect our results. We find that there is unlikely to be any significant contribution to the flux at Spitzer wavelengths from a stellar companion to WASP-18. We find that there is no evidence for variations in the times of eclipse from a linear ephemeris greater than about 100 seconds over 3 years. [less ▲]

Digital holographic interferometry with CO2 lasers and diffuse illumination applied to large space reflectors metrology

in Applied Optics (2013), 52(1), 102-116

Digital holographic interferometry in the long wave infrared domain has been developed by combining a CO2 laser and a microbolometer array. The long wavelength allows large deformation measurements which ... [more ▼]

Digital holographic interferometry in the long wave infrared domain has been developed by combining a CO2 laser and a microbolometer array. The long wavelength allows large deformation measurements which are of interest in the case of large space reflectors undergoing thermal changes when in orbit. We review holography at such wavelengths and present some specific aspects related to this spectral range on our measurements. For the design of our digital holographic interferometer we studied the possibility of illuminating specular objects by a reflective diffuser. We discuss the development of the interferometer and the results obtained on a representative space reflector, first in the laboratory and then during vacuum cryogenic test. [less ▲]

Spitzer Transits of the Super-Earth GJ1214b and Implications for Its Atmosphere

in Astrophysical Journal (2013), 765(2), 127

We observed the transiting super-Earth exoplanet GJ1214b using Warm Spitzer at 4.5 microns wavelength during a 20-day quasi-continuous sequence in May 2011. The goals of our long observation were to ... [more ▼]

We observed the transiting super-Earth exoplanet GJ1214b using Warm Spitzer at 4.5 microns wavelength during a 20-day quasi-continuous sequence in May 2011. The goals of our long observation were to accurately define the infrared transit radius of this nearby super-Earth, to search for the secondary eclipse, and to search for other transiting planets in the habitable zone of GJ1214. We here report results from the transit monitoring of GJ1214b, including a re-analysis of previous transit observations by Desert et al. (2011). In total, we analyse 14 transits of GJ1214b at 4.5 microns, 3 transits at 3.6 microns, and 7 new ground-based transits in the I+z band. Our new Spitzer data by themselves eliminate cloudless solar composition atmospheres for GJ1214b, and methane-rich models from Howe & Burrows (2012). Using our new Spitzer measurements to anchor the observed transit radii of GJ1214b at long wavelengths, and adding new measurements in I+z, we evaluate models from Benneke & Seager (2012) and Howe & Burrows (2012) using a chi-squared analysis. We find that the best-fit model exhibits an increase in transit radius at short wavelengths due to Rayleigh scattering. Pure water atmospheres are also possible. However, a flat line (no atmosphere detected) remains among the best of the statistically acceptable models, and better than pure water atmospheres. We explore the effect of systematic differences among results from different observational groups, and we find that the Howe & Burrows (2012) tholin-haze model remains the best fit, even when systematic differences among observers are considered. [less ▲]

WASP-77 Ab: A Transiting Hot Jupiter Planet in a Wide Binary System<xref ref-type="fn" rid="fn1">1</xref>

in Publications of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific (2013), 125

We report the discovery of a transiting planet with an orbital period of 1.36 days orbiting the brighter component of the visual binary star BD 07 436. The host star, WASP-77 A, is a moderately bright G8 ... [more ▼]

We report the discovery of a transiting planet with an orbital period of 1.36 days orbiting the brighter component of the visual binary star BD 07 436. The host star, WASP-77 A, is a moderately bright G8 V star (V=10.3) with a metallicity close to solar ([Fe/H] = 0.0 ± 0.1). The companion star, WASP-77 B, is a K-dwarf approximately 2 mag fainter at a separation of approximately 3″. The spectrum of WASP-77 A shows emission in the cores of the Caii H and K lines, indicative of moderate chromospheric activity. The Wide Angle Search for Planets (WASP) light curves show photometric variability with a period of 15.3 days and an amplitude of about 0.3% that is probably due to the magnetic activity of the host star. We use an analysis of the combined photometric and spectroscopic data to derive the mass and radius of the planet (1.76 ± 0.06 M[SUB]Jup[/SUB], 1.21 ± 0.02 R[SUB]Jup[/SUB]). The age of WASP-77 A estimated from its rotation rate (˜1 Gyr) agrees with the age estimated in a similar way for WASP-77 B (˜0.6 Gyr) but is in poor agreement with the age inferred by comparing its effective temperature and density to stellar models (˜8 Gyr). Follow-up observations of WASP-77 Ab will make a useful contribution to our understanding of the influence of binarity and host star activity on the properties of hot Jupiters. [less ▲]

The characteristics of the O2 Herzberg II and Chamberlain bands observed with VIRTIS/Venus Express

in Icarus (2013)

The oxygen Venus nightglow emissions in the visible spectral range have been known since the early observations from the Venera spacecraft. Recent observations with the VIRTIS instrument on board Venus ... [more ▼]

The oxygen Venus nightglow emissions in the visible spectral range have been known since the early observations from the Venera spacecraft. Recent observations with the VIRTIS instrument on board Venus Express allowed us to re-examine the Herzberg II system of O2 and to further study its vertical distribution, in particular the (0–m00 with m00 = 7–13) bands. The present work describes the vertical profile of the observed bands and relative intensities from limb observation data. The wavelength-integrated intensities of the Herzberg II bands, with m00 = 7–11, are inferred from the recorded spectra. The resulting values lie in the range of 84–116 kR at the altitudes of maximum intensity, which are found to lie in the range of 93–98 km. Three bands of the Chamberlain system, centered at 560 nm, 605 nm, and 657 nm have been identified as well. Their emission peak is located at about 100 km, 4 km higher than the Herzberg II bands. For the first time, the O2 nightglow emissions were investigated simultaneously in the visible and in the IR spectral range, showing a good agreement between the peak position for the Herzberg II and the O2ða1Dg—X3R g Þ bands. An airglow model, proposed by Gérard et al. (Gérard, J.C., Soret, L., Migliorini, A., Piccioni, G. [2012]. Icarus.) starting from realistic O and CO2 vertical distributions derived from Venus-Express observations, allows reproduction of the observed profiles for the three O2 systems. [less ▲]

Le nourrissage des pigeons dans la région parisienne

in Ethnologie Française (2013), 43(1), 155-162

Based on fieldwork amongst a group of pigeon feeders in Paris, this article shows that the identity, discourses and practices of pigeon feeders are built on the claim of a peculiar relation to the animal ... [more ▼]

Based on fieldwork amongst a group of pigeon feeders in Paris, this article shows that the identity, discourses and practices of pigeon feeders are built on the claim of a peculiar relation to the animal in the city on one side ; on the actual or supposed feeling of hostility from some city dwellers towards feral pigeons and themselves on the other. [less ▲]

Intra- and extracellular antioxidant capacities of the new water-soluble form of curcumin (NDS27) on stimulated neutrophils and HL-60 cells

in Chemico-Biological Interactions (2013), 201(1-3), 49-57

Phagocytic cells, especially neutrophils (PMNs) are specialized in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) to kill pathogenic agents, but an excessive ROS production is associated with tissue ... [more ▼]

Phagocytic cells, especially neutrophils (PMNs) are specialized in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) to kill pathogenic agents, but an excessive ROS production is associated with tissue damages and inflammatory diseases. Phagocytes are thus prime therapeutic targets to control inflammatory events associated to ROS production. Nowadays, there is a growing interest for the use of polyphenols to modulate the inflammatory response. The aim of this work was to study the antioxidant effect of NDS27, a highly water-soluble form of the polyphenolic molecule curcumin, on in vitro stimulated equine PMNs and human promyelocytic leukemia cells (HL-60). NDS27 was either pre-incubated with cells and eliminated before their activation (intracellular effect) or let in the medium (extracellular effect). Our results indicate that NDS27 significantly and dose-dependently (10 6 M–10 4 M) inhibited the ROS production in both cell types without affecting their viability. NDS27 was able to cross and interact with cell membrane, especially for HL-60 cells, while we observed a better intracellular antioxidant effect with PMNs. The activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO) released by PMNs and HL-60 cells, was decreased by NDS27, but more efficiently for PMNs. These results suggested that the greater efficiency of NDS27 in PMNs is due to an inhibitory effect on cells which are more mature for ROS production, probably by targeting the enzymes implied in respiratory burst like MPO. The modulatory effect of NDS27 on the oxidant activity of cells involved in immune and inflammatory responses opens perspectives for a therapeutic control of pathologies with excessive inflammatory reactions. [less ▲]

Quel type de peuplement pour un renouvellement naturel du douglas?

in Forêt Wallonne (2013), 122

L'article identifie les caractéristiques des peuplements de douglas qui favoriseraient l'obtention de régénération naturelle. Les seuils d'apparition de la régénération semble facilement atteint. L ... [more ▼]

L'article identifie les caractéristiques des peuplements de douglas qui favoriseraient l'obtention de régénération naturelle. Les seuils d'apparition de la régénération semble facilement atteint. L'article encourage donc les gestionnaires à renouveler leur peuplement de manière naturelle. [less ▲]

Frugivory and seed dispersal by northern pigtailed macaques, Macaca leonina, in Thailand

in International Journal of Primatology (2013), 33

A Global Approach to Mutual Funds Market Timing Ability

in Journal of Empirical Finance (2013)

• We propose a generalized specification to study market timing. Instead of considering an average market exposure for mutual funds, we allow mutual fund market betas to follow a random walk in the ... [more ▼]

• We propose a generalized specification to study market timing. Instead of considering an average market exposure for mutual funds, we allow mutual fund market betas to follow a random walk in the absence of market timing ability. As a consequence, we capture market exposure dynamics which is effectively due to manager market timing skills while allowing exposure dynamics to come from other sources than market timing. • We find that on average 6% of mutual funds display return market timing abilities while this percentage amounts to respectively 13% and 14% for volatility and liquidity market timing. We also analyse market timing by investment strategies and for surviving and dead funds. Dead fund exhibit lower volatility and liquidity timing skills than live funds. [less ▲]

Catechols as versatile platforms in polymer chemistry

in Progress in Polymer Science (2013), 38(1), 236-270

Catechols represent an important and versatile building block for the design of mussel-inspired synthetic adhesives and coatings. Indeed, their ability to establish large panoply of interactions with both ... [more ▼]

Catechols represent an important and versatile building block for the design of mussel-inspired synthetic adhesives and coatings. Indeed, their ability to establish large panoply of interactions with both organic and inorganic substrates has promoted catechol as a universal anchor for surface modifications. In addition to its pivotal role in adhesive interfaces, the catechol unit recently emerged as a powerful building block for the preparation of a large range of polymeric materials with intriguing structures and fascinating properties. The importance of catechols as efficient anchoring groups has been highlighted in recent excellent reviews partly dedicated to the characterization of their adhesive mechanisms onto surfaces and to their applications. The aim of this paper is to review for the first time the main synthetic approaches developed for the design of novel catechol-based polymer materials. We will also highlight the importance of these groups as versatile platforms for further functionalization of the macromolecular structures, but also surfaces. This will be illustrated by briefly discussing some advanced applications developed from these catechol-modified polymers. The review is organized according to the chemical structure of the functionalized catechol polymers. Chapter 1 discusses polymers bearing catechols embedded into the polymer main chain. Chapter 2 focuses on the attachment of catechol moieties as pendant groups and Chapter 3 describes the different approaches for incorporation of the catechol unit at the extremity of well-defined polymers. [less ▲]

Iterative ecological radiation and convergence during the evolutionary history of damselfishes (Pomacentridae)

in American naturalist (2013), 181(1), 94-113

Coral reef fishes represent one of the most spectacularly diverse assemblages of vertebrates on the planet, but our understand- ing of their mode of diversification remains limited. Here we test whether ... [more ▼]

Coral reef fishes represent one of the most spectacularly diverse assemblages of vertebrates on the planet, but our understand- ing of their mode of diversification remains limited. Here we test whether the diversity of the damselfishes (Pomacentridae), one of the most species-rich families of reef-associated fishes, was produced by a single or multiple adaptive radiation(s) during their evolutionary history. Tests of the tempo of lineage diversification using a time-calibrated phylogeny including 208 species revealed that crown pomacentrid diversification has not slowed through time as expected under a scenario of a single adaptive radiation resulting from an early burst of diversification. Evolutionary modeling of trophic traits similarly rejected the hypothesis of early among-lineage partitioning of ecologically important phenotypic diversity. Instead, damselfishes are shown to have experienced iterative convergent radiations wherein subclades radiate across similar trophic strategies (i.e., pelagic feeders, benthic feeders, intermediate) and morphologies. Regionalization of coral reefs, competition, and functional constraints may have fueled iterative ecological radiation and convergent evolution of damselfishes. Through the Pomacentridae, we illustrate that radiations may be strongly structured by the nature of the constraints on diversification. [less ▲]

Sensitivity analysis for multibody systems formulated on a Lie group

in Multibody System Dynamics (2013)

A direct differentiation method and an adjoint variable method are proposed for the efficient semi-analytical evaluation of the sensitivities of multibody systems formulated in a matrix Lie group ... [more ▼]

A direct differentiation method and an adjoint variable method are proposed for the efficient semi-analytical evaluation of the sensitivities of multibody systems formulated in a matrix Lie group framework. These methods rely on the linearization of the equations of motion and/or of the time integration procedure. The simpler structure of the equations of motion in the Lie group formalism appears as an advantage for that purpose. Lie bracket contributions and the non-linearity of the exponential map need to be taken into account in the sensitivity algorithms. Nevertheless, essential characteristics of formulations of the direct differentiation method and the adjoint variable method on linear spaces are recovered. Some implementation issues are discussed and two relevant examples illustrate the properties of these methods. [less ▲]

Oxygen nightglow emissions of Venus: Vertical distribution and collisional quenching

in Icarus (2013)

We compare the altitude of three O2 night airglow emissions observed at the limb of Venus by the VIRTIS spectral imager with the values predicted by a model accounting for the different radiative ... [more ▼]

We compare the altitude of three O2 night airglow emissions observed at the limb of Venus by the VIRTIS spectral imager with the values predicted by a model accounting for the different radiative lifetimes and collisional deactivation of the upper O2 states. The O and CO2 density profiles are based on remote sensing observations from the Venus Express spacecraft. Effective production efficiencies of the involved O2 metastable states and quenching coefficients by oxygen and carbon dioxide are adjusted to provide the best match with the measured emission limb profiles. We find values in general good agreement with earlier studies for the c1Σ-u state which gives rise to the Herzberg II bands. In particular, we confirm the low net yield of the c state production and the importance of its deactivation by CO2, for which we derive a quenching coefficient of 3x10-16 cm-3 s-1. The ∼4.5 km higher altitude of the Chamberlain band emission also recently detected by VIRTIS and the ratio of the Herzberg II/Chamberlain bands observed with Venera are well reproduced. To reach agreement, we use a 12% yield for the A’3Δu production following O atom association and quenching coefficients by O and CO2 of 1.3x10-11 cm-3 s-1 and 4.5x10-13 cm-3 s-1 respectively. We conclude that the different peak altitudes of the IR Atmospheric, Herzberg II and the Chamberlain bands reflect the relative importance of radiative relaxation and collisional quenching by O and CO2. [less ▲]