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

Poster (2013, April 18)

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

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

Particle-accelerating colliding-wind binaries: from the study of a few objects to a science case study

Conference (2013, April 18)

The study of massive stars, and in particular of colliding-wind binaries, revealed the capability of some of them to accelerate particles up to relativistic energies. Since the 1980's, what appeared at ... [more ▼]

The study of massive stars, and in particular of colliding-wind binaries, revealed the capability of some of them to accelerate particles up to relativistic energies. Since the 1980's, what appeared at first sight to be an anomaly in their observational properties turns out to be the signature of important physical processes at work in a large number of objects. In this contribution, I summarize the current census of information relevant to the catalogue of Particle-Accelerating Colliding-Wind Binaries (PACWBs) that constitute a particular class of objects likely to contribute to the production of low energy Galactic cosmic-rays. On the basis of this census of information, some prospects for future observational strategies are discussed. [less ▲]

comparaisons des processus d'institutionnalisation des études et enseignements 'genre' entre le France et la Belgique, au départ d'un texte de L Bereni

Conference (2013, April 16)

A comparison of soil properties under four vegetation units from six metalliferous hills in Katanga

Conference (2013, April 12)

In Katanga (Democratic Republic of Congo), numerous metalliferous hills are distributed along what is called the copperhill belt from Kolwezi to Lubumbashi. Very specific vegetation developed on these ... [more ▼]

In Katanga (Democratic Republic of Congo), numerous metalliferous hills are distributed along what is called the copperhill belt from Kolwezi to Lubumbashi. Very specific vegetation developed on these hills within the miombo forest in response to very specific soil conditions, among which the copper content. Previous studies have already shown the existence of gradients of copper from the mineralized rocks outcropping at the top of the hills to the foot slopes on colluviums. After a characterization of the vertical variability of soil properties in pits distributed along the main slopes, we investigated the soil-vegetation relationships in six hills located between the towns of Tenke and Fungurume. Observation 1-square meter plots were installed in four vegetation units and sixty of them were selected according to their relative importance on the six hills. The soil from the top 10cm was sampled and analyzed for pH, Total Organic Carbon, available P, K, Mg, Ca, Cu, Co and Mn and soluble Cu and Co. Analysis of variance was performed in order to assess whether the effects of the “Hill” and of the “Vegetation Unit” were significant to explain soil chemical variability. Additionally, short transects were sampled at the boundaries from adjacent vegetation units in order to evaluate the gradual or rough nature of change in soil properties under these units. [less ▲]

Photon correlation spectroscopy for molecular self-assembly investigations

Conference (2013, April 11)

The molecular self-assembly performance is among the most important functionalities of amphiphilic compounds in colloidal system areas. This aptitude is required in numerous applications, depending on ... [more ▼]

The molecular self-assembly performance is among the most important functionalities of amphiphilic compounds in colloidal system areas. This aptitude is required in numerous applications, depending on solubilization, hydrotropy, rheology, separation, loading and delivery, encountered in biological and industrial processes. The main physicochemical parameter predicting the capacity of amphiphiles to self-assembly in bulk liquid, aqueous (normal micelles) or non-aqueous phase (reverse micelles), is the pair critical micelle concentration (CMC) and temperature (CMT). A variety of methods based on surface tension, spectral changes, and electrical conductivity are commonly used for determining the value of CMC. The choice usually depends on the ionic or non-ionic nature of the amphiphilic compounds. In this communication, a standard Photon Correlation Spectroscopy (PCS), also known Light Scattering-based technique for CMC determination will be theoretically and practically described in details. Its particular interest for measuring the performance of non-ionic and very high hydrophobic tail, mono or disubstituted carbohydrate-based compounds, from C16 alkyl chain, will be demonstrated. Such a method is advantageous regarding the time, amount, and resolution required, but also for additional information on micelle size, aggregate number, and stability it may provide, compared to surface tension and electrical conductivity-based measurements. [less ▲]

"Ceci n'est pas une migraine." Cas cliniques de céphalées de diagnostic difficile.

Conference (2013, April 11)

Changes of soil structure and earthworm community under different agricultural management

Conference (2013, April 11)

The living soil is represented by soil biota that interacts with aboveground biota and with the abiotic constructs of soil, represented as soil structure, organic matter, and nutrients. Maintenance of ... [more ▼]

The living soil is represented by soil biota that interacts with aboveground biota and with the abiotic constructs of soil, represented as soil structure, organic matter, and nutrients. Maintenance of soil organic matter through integrated soil fertility management is necessary for soil quality and agricultural productivity. Earthworms are key actors in soil structure formation through the formation of casts and the incorporation of soil organic matter in the soil. Little is known about the interactive effects of various tillage and crop residue management practices on earthworm populations and physical properties of soil. To investigate the impacts of two tillage management systems and two cropping systems on earthworms populations and soil stucture dynamics, we carried out a three years study of the earthworm communities in experimental site having for experimental treatments : two tillage management systems and two cropping systems. In consequence, the aims of this experimentation were to determine the effects of the tillage systems on the abundance, biomass and diversity of earthworms and examine temporal variation of soil structure and dynamics of nutrient elements. The first results reveal that tillage management had a significant affect on earthworm abundance and biomass. However, crop residue management did not affect abundance, biomass and diversity of earthworms. The analyze of nutrient element dynamics showed that some nutrient elements (phosphore,…) decrease with tillage practice. This study has shown that soil structure was variable within the fields and between them, although the successive cultivation operations and the equipement used for wheat cropping were identical in the study site. [less ▲]

Validation of the Structural-Thermal Model of the Small Earth Observation Satellite Flying Laptop

in Selected Proceedings of the 9th IAA International Symposium on Small Satellites for Earth Observation (2013, April 10)

Thorough thermal design and testing is compulsory for every satellite mission. A well-known thermal behavior of the entire satellite system is therefore indispensable and needs to be verified during the ... [more ▼]

Thorough thermal design and testing is compulsory for every satellite mission. A well-known thermal behavior of the entire satellite system is therefore indispensable and needs to be verified during the spacecraft development. A Structural-Thermal-Model (STM) was constructed for the Flying Laptop, a satellite currently being developed at the Institute of Space Systems (IRS) of the University of Stuttgart, which enables the validation of mechanical and thermal simulations for the satellite’s Flight-Model. The STM was vibration and thermal-vacuum tested at the Centre Spatial Liège (CSL). This paper will de-scribe the design and construction of the STM as well as the facilities and test equipment used for the tests. Conclusions will be drawn from the actual test results. [less ▲]

Validation of the Structural-Thermal-Model of the Small Earth Observation Satellite Flying Laptop

Poster (2013, April 10)

Thorough thermal design and testing is compulsory for every satellite mission. A well-known thermal behavior of the entire satellite system is therefore indispensable and needs to be verified during the ... [more ▼]

Thorough thermal design and testing is compulsory for every satellite mission. A well-known thermal behavior of the entire satellite system is therefore indispensable and needs to be verified during the spacecraft development. A Structural-Thermal-Model (STM) was constructed for the Flying Laptop, a satellite currently being developed at the Institute of Space Systems (IRS) of the University of Stuttgart, which enables the validation of mechanical and thermal simulations for the satellite’s Flight-Model. The STM was vibration and thermal-vacuum tested at the Centre Spatial Liège (CSL). This paper will de-scribe the design and construction of the STM as well as the facilities and test equipment used for the tests. Conclusions will be drawn from the actual test results. [less ▲]

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

Poster (2013, April 09)

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

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

Modélisation du transfert radiatif en forêts feuillues ardennaises : adaptation de la librairie Samsaralight

Conference (2013, April 08)

Relationships between soil properties and contents in trace elements in a landscape impacted by atmospheric fallouts in Belgium

Conference (2013, April 08)

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

Poster (2013, April 08)

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

Poster (2013, April 07)

The influence of biogeochemical processes on the pH dynamics in the seasonally hypoxic saline Lake Grevelingen

Poster (2013, April 07)

Biogeochemistry, transport fluxes and emission of greenhouse gases from the Niger River (West Africa): preliminary results after two years of monitoring

Poster (2013, April 07)

Denitrification, anammox and fixed nitrogen removal in the water column of a tropical great lake

Conference (2013, April 07)

Jesuit solemnities in the Southern Netherlands: immersion and experience

Conference (2013, April 05)

Since the celebrations for Ignatius’s beatification organized in Brussels in 1609, the Belgian Jesuits kept proposing processional performances characterized not only by their highly spectacular features ... [more ▼]

Since the celebrations for Ignatius’s beatification organized in Brussels in 1609, the Belgian Jesuits kept proposing processional performances characterized not only by their highly spectacular features, but also by their physical dimensions, in contempt of synodal summons that imposed a strong spiritualization of the processions. With Jesuit ceremonies, bodies are in movement, senses are awakened, and emotions are heightened. Processions establish themselves as immersional spatio-temporal frames where what matters the most seems to be the experience provoked by the saturation of special effects. I will seek to define the practical terms of this experience and to identify the devices used to make this experience possible and the purpose behind this activation of experience. [less ▲]

Research on durable junction of multimaterials

Poster (2013, April 04)

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

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

Probability perturbation method applied to the inversion of groundwater flow models using HydroGeoSphere

Conference (2013, April 04)

Solving spatial inverse problems in Earth Sciences remains a big challenge given the high number of parameters to invert for and the complexity of non-linear forward models. Techniques were developed to ... [more ▼]

Solving spatial inverse problems in Earth Sciences remains a big challenge given the high number of parameters to invert for and the complexity of non-linear forward models. Techniques were developed to reduce the number of parameters to invert for or to produce geologically consistent simulations from an initial guess. These techniques ask for a prior model to constrain the spatial distribution of the solution. Geostatistical models contain, by nature, information to control the spatial features of the inverse solutions, but the integration of dynamic data into such models remains difficult. We adapted, the “probability perturbation algorithm” (PPM) using Matlab® to invert hydrogeological data using multiple-point geostatistics to build models of pre-defined hydrofacies. The algorithm uses HydroGeoSphere (HGS) to compute the forward response of the model and SGems to produce geostatistical realizations. The algorithm only needs the proper definition of all the parameters to be used by HydroGeoSphere (grid matching with SGems, position of the wells, pumping rate, facies properties, boundary conditions, etc.). The PPM algorithm will automatically seek solutions fitting both hydrogeological data and geostatistical constraints. Through the inversion process, the initial geostatistical realization is perturbed. Only geometrical features of the model are affected, i.e. we do not attempt to directly find the optimal value of hydrogeological parameters, but the optimal spatial distribution of facies whose prior distribution is quantified in a training image. The algorithm can be divided in three steps. In the first step, we use SGems to generate an initial facies model with the multiple-point geostatistical algorithm SNESIM (single normal equation simulation). The facies model is composed of several categories representing hydrological facies (e.g. gravel, sand and clay). It can be conditioned using hard data (borehole data) and/or soft data (e.g. geophysical data). We then run a first flow simulation with HydroGeoSphere. This requires defining hydrogeological parameters (porosity, hydraulic conductivity, etc.) for each category of the facies model to create a hydrogeological model. The response of the latter model is compared to the expected one through an objective function. In the second step, a perturbation to the facies model is computed using a single parameter called rD. This perturbation is used to generate a new facies model with SGems and calculate a new objective function value via HGS, as done in the first step. An inner loop optimizes the value of rD. In the third step, we verify if the objective function of the best fitting model is smaller than a predefined value. If it is the case, we stop the algorithm, otherwise we go back to step 2 until convergence. We illustrate the methodology with a synthetic example in an alluvial aquifer. The model is based on a training image depicting gravel channels and clay lenses in a coarse sand aquifer. We simulate a pumping test and inverse water level data recorded at 9 wells using our implementation of the PPM algorithm. Using this method, it is possible to generate multiple solutions and to derive a posterior probability of the facies distribution. [less ▲]

Using Brand constellation to segment the market: a goal systemic perspective

Conference (2013, April 03)

This paper is aiming to expand the literature on consumption constellation by bridging the gap with the goal-oriented perspective and cognitive networks. We emphasize how brands could be considered as ... [more ▼]

This paper is aiming to expand the literature on consumption constellation by bridging the gap with the goal-oriented perspective and cognitive networks. We emphasize how brands could be considered as complementary means to reach high-level goals following the consumption constellation theory. This research also extend the knowledge on segmentation, first by recommending segmentation based on goals and means, and secondly by providing an operational method to capture these segments. Practically, we first collected data on the consumers’ hierarchy of goals in order to build a typology of goals and relate them to the consumers’ lifestyles. Secondly, brand constellations were elicited and mapped by the consumers, using brand concept mapping. Thirdly, network analytics were used to interpret the networks. [less ▲]

Western lowland gorilla populations and logging concessions: is the coexistence possible?

Conference (2013, April)

Timber exploitation is rapidly expanding throughout the Congo Basin. Around 26 % of the moist forests are devoted to logging activities. Logging concessions largely overlap with the range of western ... [more ▼]

Timber exploitation is rapidly expanding throughout the Congo Basin. Around 26 % of the moist forests are devoted to logging activities. Logging concessions largely overlap with the range of western lowland gorilla (WLG) considered as critically endangered by IUCN. However, this species could play an essential role in maintaining vegetal diversity notably through seed dispersal services. Particularly some tree species harvested for their timber may be dispersed by WLG. In this communication interactions between WLG and a timber exploitation are studied in Central Gabon. WLG density is estimated in an Annual Allowable Cut (AAC), and nesting behavior is described. Seeds dispersed by WLG are identified through fecal analysis and germination trials are conducted to assess seed viability after gut passage. Four treatments are realized for the most abundant species: passed seeds, passed seeds in fecal matrix, seeds surrounded by fresh pulp and seeds extracted from fresh fruits. A relatively high WLG density is observed in the AAC (2.0 weaned gorillas/km²). WLG nest preferentially in open terra firme forest and frequently use old logging road covered with herbaceous vegetation for nesting and feeding. They avoid nesting in closed terra firme forest. Seed dispersal and impacts of the passage in gorilla’s gut on seed germination are currently described. Germination success after gut passage depends on the seed species and varies from 0.0 to 100% in the course of monitoring time. The first results of this study suggest that timber exploitation and WLG conservation are not mutually exclusive. WLG are important agents of forest regeneration by dispersing seeds in logged areas. Nest sites in logging gaps could be particularly favorable for seedlings development. This consideration must encourage forest managers to strengthen WLG-conservative practices in their concessions. [less ▲]

Extensions of Superalgebras of Krichever-Novikov type

Poster (2013, April)

Nonparametric subspace identification of nonlinear structures - Application to a spacecraft

in Proceedings of the 54th AIAA/ASME/ASCE/AHS/ASC Structures, Structural Dynamics, and Materials Conference (2013, April)

The objective of the present paper is to address the identification of a strongly nonlinear satellite structure by exploiting a new nonlinear subspace identification method formulated in the frequency ... [more ▼]

The objective of the present paper is to address the identification of a strongly nonlinear satellite structure by exploiting a new nonlinear subspace identification method formulated in the frequency domain, referred to as the FNSI method. The modal parameters of the underlying linear structure and the coefficients of the nonlinear internal forces will be estimated by this approach. Moreover, because a priori knowledge about nonlinear behaviour may be limited, the paper also proposes a nonparametric spline-based modelling strategy, encapsulated in the FNSI method. The application of interest is the SmallSat spacecraft developed by EADS-Astrium, which possesses an impact-type nonlinear device consisting of eight mechanical stops limiting the motion of an inertia wheel mounted on an elastomeric interface. [less ▲]

Exuberant inflammatory reaction after an infiltration of platelet-rich plasma (PRP)

in Abstract Book of the 3rd Congress of the ECOSEP (2013, April)

Background: PRP, obtained from centrifuged autologous blood, contains a large quantity of growth factors, which may enhance the tissue healing processes. Local infiltration of PRP represents a relatively ... [more ▼]

Background: PRP, obtained from centrifuged autologous blood, contains a large quantity of growth factors, which may enhance the tissue healing processes. Local infiltration of PRP represents a relatively new treatment for tendinopathies. To date, no side effects have been reported after infiltration of PRP to treat tendinopathy. Case report: A 35-year-old patient had a right upper patellar tendinopathy which was resistant to all conservative treatments for more than 6 months. The patient was a type 1 diabetic (well controlled). He had an intratendinous infiltration of 6 mL of PRP (8.105 platelets/mm3, almost no red or white blood cells) after disinfection but without local anaesthetic. Immediately following the infiltration, local cryotherapy was performed for 15 minutes. NSAIDs were avoided, but class-1 or -2 pain-killers were authorised if necessary. A standardised sub-maximal eccentric rehabilitation should have been started 1 week after. However, the patient experienced local swelling with erythema, increased heating and pain which appeared just underneath the patella, but without biological inflammatory syndrome. A great Doppler signal in a thicker patellar tendon was observed by US, but there was no sign of local infectious disease demonstrated by either CT or MRI. However, the local inflammation did not decrease after a progressive 3-week treatment of local cryotherapy, local and oral NSAIDs and colchicine 1 mg. Thus, an insidious infection was suspected, even though there was neither evidence of biological inflammatory syndrome nor sign of infectious lesion on imagery examination. An antibiotic therapy (rifampicine 600 mg + minocycline 100 mg) was initiated for 3 months. Finally, a 3-phase bone scintigraphy suggested the presence of a complex regional pain syndrome type 1 treated by a classical physical therapy and concomitant class-2 pain killers. The evolution was favourable after 6 months of symptomatic treatment, and the pain decreased to a level similar to that before the infiltration of PRP. Discussion/Conclusions: This case report draws attention to potential side effects that are linked to this new therapy by infiltration of platelet rich plasma in case of tendinopathy, in particular when used in patients with type 1 diabetes. Thus, the balance between benefits and risks must be carefully evaluated before using this treatment in patients with type 1 diabetes. Reference: Platelet-rich plasma application in the management of chronic tendinopathies. Acta Orthop Belg 2013; 79: 10-15. [less ▲]

Comparative study of four safflower oils (Carthamus tinctorius) varieties grown in eastern of Morocco

Poster (2013, April)

Planet TOPERS: Planets, Tracing the Transfer, Origin, Preservation, and Evolution of Their Reservoirs

in Geophysical Research Abstracts (2013, April), 15

An overview is given of the Planet TOPERS project addressing habitability in our solar system.

Quantitative gait assessment using an accelerometer technology as a predictive tool of falls among nursing home residents: a 6-month prospective study

in Osteoporosis International (2013, April), 24(Suppl.1), 210

Role of nutraceuticals in the symptomatic and structural management of osteoarthritis

in Osteoporosis International (2013, April), 24(Suppl.1), 82-83

What is the predictive value of MRI for the occurrence of hard clinical endpoints in knee osteoarthritis?

in Osteoporosis International (2013, April), 24(Suppl.1), 84-85

Cost-effectiveness of vitamin D and calcium supplementation in the treatment of postmenopausal women

in Osteoporosis International (2013, April), 24(Suppl.1), 198

Thérapeutiques récentes des tendinopathies du sportif (ondes de choc, injections de plaquettes, ...)

in Abstract book du 21ème Séminaire hivernal de Médecine sportive 2013 (2013, April)

Evaluation of the impact of a 6-month training by whole body vibration on the risk of falls among nursing home residents

in Osteoporosis International (2013, April), 24(Suppl.1), 246-247

Investigation of potential new targets for the diagnosis and/or the treatment of osteoarthritis

in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage (2013, April), 21(Supplement April 2013),

Purpose: Synovial inflammation plays a key role in the pathophysiology process of osteoarthritis (OA). We have previously compared the gene expression pattern of synovial cells isolated from inflammatory ... [more ▼]

Purpose: Synovial inflammation plays a key role in the pathophysiology process of osteoarthritis (OA). We have previously compared the gene expression pattern of synovial cells isolated from inflammatory (I) or normal/reactive (N/R) areas of a synovial membrane harvested from the same OA patient. We identified a large number of mediators belonging to key pathways involved in OA pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to validate different potential new targets for the diagnosis and/or the treatment OA. Methods: Synovial cells (SC) were isolated from synovial specimens obtained from OA patients undergoing knee replacement. The inflammatory status of the synovial membrane was characterized according to macroscopic criteria. The biopsies from N/R and I areas were cultured separately for a period of 7 days. Microarray gene expression profiling between N/R and I areas was performed. The biological relevance of up- and down-regulated genes was analyzed with Ingenuity Pathways Analysis. Western blot and immunohistochemistry confirmed the identified genes most differentially expressed in the key pathways. The production of the triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 (TREM1), the alarmin S100 calcium binding protein A9 (S100A9), the wingless-type MMTV integration site family, member 5A (Wnt-5A) and the stanniocalcin 1 (STC1) were evaluated by Western blot. S100A9, hyaluronan synthase-1 (HAS1) and STC1 expression and localization were investigated by immunohistochemistry. Results: 896 genes differentially expressed in N/R and I areas were identified. The key pathways were related to inflammation, cartilage metabolism, Wnt signaling and angiogenesis. In the inflammatory gene pattern, TREM1 and S100A9 were strongly upregulated. We validated the production of these proteins in OA synovial biopsies by Western blot. TREM1 and S100A9 were increased in I compared to N/R synovial cells culture. S100A9 was observed in the perivascular area and in sublining cells in I synovial biopsies, but not in N/R biopsies. An increased staining was also observed in the intima lining layer of I when compared to N/R biopsies. The most upregulated anabolism enzyme in I synovial biopsies was HAS1. Using immunohistochemistry, we observed in I areas an increase of the HAS1-positive cells mainly in the intima lining. We also studied the protein production of Wnt-5A, the most upregulated intermediate of Wnt signaling pathway. The protein level was increased in I compared to N/R areas. Finally, in the angiogenesis pathway, one the most u-regulated gene was STC1. A significant increase of STC1 production was observed in I areas compared to N/R areas by Western blot. This result was also supported by the immunohistochemical analysis. In I area, the staining for STC1 was more intense in perivascular and sublining cells. Conclusions: Synovial membrane inflammation is a key target for OA treatments. In this work, we have identified proteins involved in the synovitis pathways like angiogenesis, cells infiltration and matrix remodeling. These proteins could be targeted by drugs and used as companion biomarkers for evaluating their efficacy. Although qualitative, our results could also yield to the identification of markers of the disease. This investigation has to be further pursued. [less ▲]

Trace Minerals Management in Cattle

in XVIII Congreso Internacional Anembe de Medicina Bovina (2013, April)

Quality of life in sarcopenia and frailty

in Osteoporosis International (2013, April), 24(Suppl.1), 76-77

Validity of the French hip and knee replacement expectations surveys

in Osteoporosis International (2013, April), 24(Suppl.1), 374

Health economics in osteoarthritis

in Osteoporosis International (2013, April), 24(Suppl.1), 79-80

Modélisation régionale et locale sur base des données de la carte géologique

in Renard, José (Ed.) La carte hydrogéologique de Wallonie : un outil au service de tous - Synthèse des exposés (2013, April)

Conception des pseudo-articulations à col paraboique

in Agiuzoul, Mohammed (Ed.) 11ème Congrès de Mécanique - Actes du Congrès (2013, April)

The elastic behaviour of parabolic notch hinges submitted to the classical sollicitations of a beam is studied. For each sollicitation, an analytical solution is given first. Its asymptotic expression for ... [more ▼]

The elastic behaviour of parabolic notch hinges submitted to the classical sollicitations of a beam is studied. For each sollicitation, an analytical solution is given first. Its asymptotic expression for very narrow hinges is then obtained and finally,, an approximate factor relating the exact solution to the asymptotic one is proposed. [less ▲]

Effects of chondroitin sulfate on the gene expression profile in the inflamed synovial membrane

in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage (2013, April), 21(Supplement April 2013),

Purpose: The aim of the present work was to identify the differentially expressed genes between the inflammatory (I) and normal/reactive (N/R) synovial areas using a unique ex vivo culture model. In a ... [more ▼]

Purpose: The aim of the present work was to identify the differentially expressed genes between the inflammatory (I) and normal/reactive (N/R) synovial areas using a unique ex vivo culture model. In a second step, we investigated the genetic modulatory effects of chondroitin sulfate (CS) in this model. Methods: Synovial cells (SC) were isolated from OA synovial specimens obtained from 12 patients undergoing knee replacement. The inflammatory status of the synovial membrane was characterized according to macroscopic criteria. At the surgery time, the synovial membrane was dissected and biopsies from N/R and I areas cultured separately for a period of 7 days in the absence or in the presence of highly purified bovine CS (200 µg/ml, Bioibérica S.A., Barcelona, Spain). Total RNA was extracted using the RNeasy Mini Kit. RNA purity and quality were evaluated using the Experion RNA StdSens Analysis kit (Bio-rad Laboratories). Gene expression profiling was performed using Illumina’s multi-sample format Human HT-12 BeadChip (Illumina Inc.). Differential analysis was performed with the BRB array tools software. Class Comparison test between N/R and I conditions, N/R and N/R-CS conditions and I and I-CS conditions was based on paired t-test where N/R and I, N/R and N/R-CS and I and I-CS were paired for each patient. The biological relevance of up- and down-regulated genes was analyses with Ingenuity Pathways Analysis (Ingenuity® Systems). Results: From among 47000 probes, 18253 were filtered out. Probes with a p-value below than 0.005 were chosen and classified as up- or down-regulated ones. By this way, 465 differentially expressed genes between N/R and I areas were identified. Many inflammatory mediators appear differentially expressed. The interferon alpha-inductible protein 6 (IFI6) was the most up-regulated. We also identified the hydroxysteroid (11-beta) dehydrogenase 1 (HSD11B1), the cathepsin K (CTSK), the chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1 (CXCL1) and the EBV-induced G-protein coupled receptor 2 (EBI2). The differential expression of intermediates involved in angiogenesis pathway was also revealed between N/R and I areas. Among them, R-spondin-3 (RSPO3), the secreted phopshoprotein 1 (SPP1) and aquaporin 9 (AQP9) were up-regulated whereas ADAMTS1 was down-regulated. Finally, in the Wnt signaling, RSPO3 was up-regulated unlike dickkopf homolog 3 (DKK3) which was in turn down-regulated. We next performed a class comparison test between N/R and N/R-CS in one hand and between I and I-CS the other hand. 489 genes were identified as differentially expressed genes between N/R and N/R-CS conditions while 219 genes were identified between I and I-CS conditions. In this latter, our attention was focused on the down-regulated genes. Among them, we identified a number implicated in angiogenesis and cell migration pathways. Thus, the endothelial cell-specific molecule-1 (ESM1), the Transmembrane-4-L-six-family-1 (TM4SF1), the 5’-Ectonucleotidase (NT5E) and the growth arrest-specific gene 6 (GAS6) were down-regulated by CS. Conclusions: Our work demonstrates the differential gene expression profile between paired non inflammatory and normal/reactive areas of synovial membrane as well as the modulatory effects of CS on gene expression in the inflammatory areas, especially regarding genes involved in both angiogenesis and cell migration. [less ▲]

OARSI recommended performance-based tests to assess physical function in people with established hip and knee osteoarthritis

in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage (2013, April), 21(Supplement April 2013),

Risk Horizon and Expected Market Returns

Conference (2013, April)

Self-shuffling words

Conference (2013, April)

Supervening Events and Contract Law: A Comparative and Critical Analysis

Conference (2013, April)

The binding force of contracts (pacta sunt servanda) is a basic rule in most – if not all – legal systems. Parties will therefore be liable in the event they failed to perform an obligation provided ... [more ▼]

The binding force of contracts (pacta sunt servanda) is a basic rule in most – if not all – legal systems. Parties will therefore be liable in the event they failed to perform an obligation provided within the contract. However, there are situations which excuse non-performance due to unforeseen circumstances that occurred subsequently to the conclusion of a contract. While most jurisdictions excuse the debtor's non-performance in case of impossibility to perform, only a few provide for remedies when performance has become by far more burdensome for one contracting party. It is to be noted that there is an increasing trend to adopt a general doctrine of hardship, as illustrated by the European codification projects. As a counterexample, Belgium remains attached to the pacta sunt servanda principle and rejects the so-called “theory of imprévision”. The English frustration doctrine seems to provide for an in-between position. In a first part, this paper will briefly discuss the mechanisms dealing with unexpected events which have been adopted in two different legal systems (England and Belgium) and in one European soft law instruments (PECL). In a second part, the paper will critically compare the mechanisms applied in the observed legal systems. [less ▲]

ON THE MODELING OF ADHESIVE CONTACT AND STICTION FAILURE IN MICRO-SWITCHES

in Ouisse (FEMTO-ST – ENSMM, France); Deü (CNAM, FR), J.F. (Eds.) MEDYNA 2013 Proceedings (2013, April)

Undesirable stiction, which results from contact between surfaces, is a major failure mode in micro-switches. Indeed the adhesive forces can become so important that the two surfaces remain permanently ... [more ▼]

Undesirable stiction, which results from contact between surfaces, is a major failure mode in micro-switches. Indeed the adhesive forces can become so important that the two surfaces remain permanently glued, limiting the life-time of the MEMS. This is especially true when contact happens between surfaces where elasto-plastic asperities deform permanently until the surfaces reach plastic accommodation, increasing the surface forces. To predict this behavior, a micro adhesive-contact model is developed, which accounts for the surfaces topography evolutions during elasto-plastic contacts. This model can be used at a higher scale to study the MEMS behavior, and thus its life-time. For illustration purpose, an electrostatic-structural analysis is performed on a micro-switch. [less ▲]

Parametric numerical study of seismic slope stability and the Newmark method

Conference (2013, April)

2D dynamic modelling of seismic slope stability is applied to a landslide-prone area in Central Asia, the Mailuu-Suu Valley, situated in the south of Kyrgyzstan. The calculations are made with models ... [more ▼]

2D dynamic modelling of seismic slope stability is applied to a landslide-prone area in Central Asia, the Mailuu-Suu Valley, situated in the south of Kyrgyzstan. The calculations are made with models constructed from over 30 profiles located in the target area, presenting different geological, tectonic and morphological settings. One part of the profiles were selected within landslide zones, the other part was selected in stable areas. Many of the landslides are complex slope failures involving falls, rotational sliding and/or planar sliding and flows. These input data were extracted from a 3D structural geological model built with the GOCAD software. Geophysical and geomechanical parameters were defined on the basis of results obtained by multiple surveys performed in the area over the past 15 years. These include geophysical investigation, seismological experiments and ambient noise measurements. Dynamic modelling of slope stability is performed with the UDEC version 4.01 software that is able to compute deformation of discrete elements. Inside these elements both elasto-plastic and purely elastic materials (similar to rigid blocks) were tested. Various parameter variations were tested to assess their influence on the final outputs. For a few models groundwater flow is included. The total parametric study involved more than 100 different models (about 800 computation hours). Preliminary results allow us to compare Newmark displacements computed using different GIS approaches (Jibson et al., 1998; Miles and Ho, 1999, among others) with the displacements computed using the original Newmark method (Newmark, 1965, here simulated seismograms were used) and displacements produced along joints by the corresponding 2D dynamical models. The generation of seismic amplification and its impact on peak-ground-acceleration, Arias Intensity and permanent slope movements (total and slip on joints) is assessed for numerous morphological-lithological settings (curvature, slope angle, surficial geology, various layer dips and orientations) throughout the target area. The final results of our studies should allow us to define the limitations of the simplified GIS-based Newmark displacement modelling; thus, the verified method would make landslide susceptibility and hazard mapping in seismically active regions more reliable. [less ▲]

Merkel cell carcinoma of the central nervous system. Case report and review of the literature.

Poster (2013, March 30)

Spinal paraganglioma: case report and review of the literature.

Poster (2013, March 30)

The Semantic-syntactic Interface

Conference (2013, March 28)