Terroir dairy : Using mobile milking robots for special quality dairy products based on site specific grazing

Poster (in press)

An option for combining grazing and automatic milking is Infield Automatic Milking, with more or less mobilie infield automatic milking systems (IAMS) which have been practiced sin 2008 in several ... [more ▼]

An option for combining grazing and automatic milking is Infield Automatic Milking, with more or less mobilie infield automatic milking systems (IAMS) which have been practiced sin 2008 in several European countries. This emerging technology can be used to harvest milk from specific areas, giving specialized dairies the possibility to market concept milk, cheese or butter. [less ▲]

The influence of verbal descriptions on face identification in children and adults

Poster (2013, July 12)

Frequency of exposition effect on noun learning in French-speaking children with specific language impairment: long-term retention.

Poster (2013, June 25)

Preliminary results of the Quality of Life Systemic Inventory for children in Pediatric Cystic Fibrosis: A tool for clinical interventions?

Poster (2013, June 14)

Objective: this study examined the generic and CF-specific QOL in CF children using a tool based on a modular clinical approach. Methods: Sample consisted of 12 CF children and 12 healthy children aged 8 ... [more ▼]

Objective: this study examined the generic and CF-specific QOL in CF children using a tool based on a modular clinical approach. Methods: Sample consisted of 12 CF children and 12 healthy children aged 8 to 12 years, matched by age and sex. The Quality of Life Systemic Inventory for Children (QLSI-C) assess both generic (20 items) and CF-specific (6 items) QOL. CF-specific module is empirically created from CFQ-R and discussion with medical staff. QLSI-C is a dynamic tool, using a VAS, which considers QOL (gap) like the difference between the present situation (state) and the expectations (goal). This difference is weighted by the importance (rank) that children assign for each life domains. QLSI-C is different from PedQoL, which consider QOL like an assessment of state score only. Results: Difference between CF and healthy children for the QOL score approached significance (F=3.63; p=0.07). Results by items show a significant difference for “autonomy” (F=4.30; p=0.05) and “frustration tolerance” (F=4.60; p=0.04) between the two groups. In addition, global scores in CF-specific module is correlated with global score in generic module for CF children (r=0.66 to 0.96). Assessment of QOL is the same for both generic (M=3.76) and CF-specific (M=3.76) module (p=0.53). Finally, descriptive statistics demonstrate that items which reflect the best QOL in CF children were based on social support unlike healthy children. Conclusion: QLSI-C is a clinical tool which distinguishes between children with CF and healthy children. Originality of this tool is strengthened by the consideration of individual life plan taking into account the particular situation of children with CF. [less ▲]

Structural characterization of disulfide-bridged-peptides by a combined use of ETD and Ion-Mobility mass spectrometry

Poster (2013, June 11)

De novo sequencing of unusual non tryptic peptides thanks to 4-sulfophenylisothiocyanate derivatization by post-source decay MALDI-MS.

Poster (2013, June 11)

Introduction Due to the specificity of trypsin, tryptic peptides contain basic residues on the C-terminal side. This feature provides good ionization efficiency, and facilitates fragmentation processes ... [more ▼]

Introduction Due to the specificity of trypsin, tryptic peptides contain basic residues on the C-terminal side. This feature provides good ionization efficiency, and facilitates fragmentation processes. In the case of non tryptic peptides, the absence of basic residues at one extremity implicates lower fragmentation ratio and poor MS/MS spectra. Several methods have been developed to circumvent this drawback. Derivatization of peptides with compounds containing positive charge has been studied; Chen et al. (RCMS, 2004, 18, 191) demonstrated the simplification of CID spectra of tryptic peptides modified by 4-sulfophenylisothiocyanate. The result is a predominance of y-type ions. In this work, we evaluate the potential of SPITC for the de novo sequencing of unknown non-tryptic peptides containing disulfide bridges, i.e. peptide toxins from animal venoms. Methods 2µL of peptide solution (100 µM) were diluted in 6µL NH4HCO3 50mM (pH 8.7). As peptide toxins often contain disulfide bridges, reduction (2µL DTT 50mM, 1h at 56°C) and alkylation (2µL IAA 500mM, 1h in darkness at RT) of peptides were performed before the derivatization reaction. Peptides were then adsorbed on a C18 ZipTip micro-column followed by 10 µL of 4-sulfophenylisothiocyanate (SPITC) 50mM. The column was then incubated for 6h at 56°C. Peptides were washed by TFA 0.2% and eluted in 10µL 50/50 ACN/FA 0.1%, before being spotted in 2,5-DHB. MS experiments were performed using a Bruker Ultraflex II MALDI-TOF/TOF. FlexControl 3.0, FlexAnalysis 3.0, BioTools 3.2 and SequenceEditor 3.2 softwares (Bruker Daltonics, Bremen) were used for data acquisition and interpretation. Preliminary data According to our first results, SPITC derivatization allows in positive mode to direct the fragmentation thanks to the acidic character of the sulfonate moiety present on the modified molecule. Indeed, a large series of y-type ions is found in the CID spectra allowing determining easily large sequence tags. Moreover, the number of C-terminus ions (b- and a-type ions) decreases, which improve the simplification of MS/MS spectra. Due to this fragmentation pattern, SPITC derivatization is clearly valuable for the sequencing of peptides that are not described in databases (de novo sequencing). For example, animal venoms are composed of several hundreds of peptides that are poorly studied, up to now. These peptides display a high importance for pharmaceutical applications and their sequencing is, as a consequence, of prime interest. Peptide toxins, which are not resulting from an enzymatic digestion, are however difficult to sequence by classical MS/MS methods. In this work, we demonstrate that the modification of peptide toxins with SPITC reagent is suitable for “real” de novo sequencing. The method was applied to isolated peptides as well as chromatographic fractions that contain up to 30 toxins. The perspectives of this work rest on the study of the SPITC modified peptides in negative mode. We expect to obtain a better sensitivity due to the presence of the negative sulfonic acid group at the N-terminus extremity, and also interesting MS/MS spectra including mainly a- or b-type ions. The final challenge will be the application of the protocol to high throughput sequencing of peptide toxins from a large variety of animal venoms. Novel aspect De novo sequencing of unusual non-tryptic peptides thanks to 4-sulfophenylisothiocyanate derivatization by post-source decay MALDI-MS [less ▲]

Study of bacterial diversity in the topsoil and below the hardpan in an agricultural soil by metagenomics following by two analysis pipelines

Poster (2013, June 10)

On earth, Bacteria are ubiquitous and even present in extreme environments (pH, temperature,…). In soils in particular, bacteria are very abundant (up to 109 cells per gram of soil) but still poorly ... [more ▼]

On earth, Bacteria are ubiquitous and even present in extreme environments (pH, temperature,…). In soils in particular, bacteria are very abundant (up to 109 cells per gram of soil) but still poorly characterized. Thus, it is of paramount importance to use relevant study and analysis procedures to ensure that the results obtained closely reflect the real-life conditions. In the present work, we analyze the bacterial diversity in the topsoil and below the hardpan in an agricultural soil using the metagenomics approach, with the Ion Torrent PGM sequencer. The soil samples was collected at three depths : 10 cm (topsoil), 25 cm (topsoil above the hardpan) and 45 cm (below the hardpan), in a tilled and a no tilled plot. The taxonomic analysis of the reads obtained are carried out according to two different procedures with the RDP classifier program and with a confidence score threshold of 0 and 0.99. The 0 threshold is used to assign a species to all reads, each read being therefore assigned to its most closest known species. The threshold of 0.99 enables us to focus on reads being assigned to a species with a high degree of confidence. In this case, each read is assigned to the most specific rank having a confidence score higher than 0.99. The bacterial diversity was then compared between the different conditions. Results obtained demonstrate that the bacterial communities were not the same in the two horizons. For example, some classes of Acidobacteria were up to 11 fold more numerous in topsoil while others was until 12 fold more represented below the hardpan. The biomass and the bacterial diversity (Shannon index) were also greatly different between the two depths. [less ▲]

Influence of the mode of walk on walking speed in multiple sclerosis: are you walking comfortably?

Poster (2013, June 10)

Introduction : Walking speed (WS) is the most frequent gait variable taken into account when measuring gait dysfunction in neurological diseases. Influences of the mode of walk instructed to the subject ... [more ▼]

Introduction : Walking speed (WS) is the most frequent gait variable taken into account when measuring gait dysfunction in neurological diseases. Influences of the mode of walk instructed to the subject, i.e. « as fast as possible » (AFAP) or « at a comfortable pace » (PrP) have not been well characterized in multiple sclerosis (MS). Objectives : to compare those 2 mode of walk in a population of persons with MS (pMS) and healthy volunteers (HV). Methods: WS was measured with a new automated device along a 25 foot distance (T25FW) as part of a multimodal evaluation of gait in an MS ambulatory department. Results: Baseline demographics between HV and pMS were comparable. Our first results demonstrate that (i) WS is obviously significantly higher in AFAP than in PrP both for pMS and HV (p < 0.001 for all comparisons) and (ii) the relative difference between AFAP and PrP WS is significantly higher in HV than in pMS (p < 0.001). The AFAP-PrP WS correlation is higher in pMS (r = 0.87, p < 0.001) than in HV (r = 0.51, p < 0.001). Finally, the relative difference between AFAP and PrP WS is significantly and negatively correlated with the PrP WS in HV (r = -0.41, p < 0.001) and pMS with mild to moderate disability (EDSS 0-3.5, r = -0.49, p < 0.01) but not in pMS with high disability (EDSS 4-5.5, r = 0.008). Conclusions : these results suggests that heatlhy subjects have access to a higher range of PrP WS than pMS and questions the regulation of PrP WS that might be under psychological or behavioural influences. The demonstration of a lower PrP-AFAP difference in MS suggests that pMS are either adopting a natural WS closer to their maximum WS, or alternatively that they can’t reach their maximum WS because of neurological impairments. Our results also emphasize the importance of the instructed mode of walk in the quantification of gait disorders both for routine clinical practice and clinical trials. [less ▲]

The coping strategies to fight against the food insecurity in the Republic of Niger

Poster (2013, June 06)

During the last decade, the Niger’s population has been affected by the food crisis (2001, 2004-2005, 2008, 2010-2011). Each year, she is subjected to many structural and temporary shocks. The structural ... [more ▼]

During the last decade, the Niger’s population has been affected by the food crisis (2001, 2004-2005, 2008, 2010-2011). Each year, she is subjected to many structural and temporary shocks. The structural shocks are caused by the chronicle difficulties (income) while the temporary shocks are tied at the "natural" disasters such as the hydrometeorological disasters, demographic crisis. The risk that the people fall in a state of food insecurity because of structural and temporary shocks is characterized by food vulnerability. The food vulnerability is defined as “the analysis of coping strategies and reactions faced with the structural or/and temporary shocks, if the coping strategies are not effectives, the people have in a temporary or structural food vulnerability” (Andres L. and Lebailly Ph., 2011). The target of this paper is to demonstrate the diversity of coping strategies in the different departments of Niger. The database is created as from an annual survey realized by the Early Alert System (EAS) and the Statistical National Institute of Niger (INS). This survey characterizes the state of food insecurity of households of Niger. The investigations of the household are based on stratified sampling. It exists two levels: region and enumeration areas. The investigations of the household are based from the database of the population census of 2001. This population census has determined the “enumeration areas”. These “enumeration areas” are defined as a “geographical area of 200 households on average” (INS, 2007). The sample of this investigation is established from a significant sample a point of view of the departments of Niger. The time period studied is spread the 2008 at 2011. The results have demonstrated that the departments of Tchintarabaden, Abalak, Tessaoua and Magaria have weakest number of collective meals, and the highest percentage of household practicing of selling the goods and land. Furthermore, the Niger’s population develops many strategies to struggle against the shocks. [less ▲]

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD): from Metabolomics approach to the inhibition of PDH Kinase as a new therapeutic target

Poster (2013, June 06)

Développement et optimisation d'une méthode d'extraction de phyto-oestrogènes présents dans les plantes fourragères à l'aide d'un plan d'expérience

Poster (2013, June 04)

Towards the improvement of a rhizosecretion-based recombinant protein production system: Developing protease-depleted lines of Arabidopsis thaliana.

Poster (2013, June)

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 protein 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 protein 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 aimed at identifying active root-secreted (rhizosecreted) proteases in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. Their activity was assayed by in vitro degradation of a target protein (Bovine Serum Albumine, BSA) in a range of pH. The protease classes involved in BSA degradation were evaluated by inhibitor-based assays that revealed serine proteases as the major class involved in this degradation in any tested conditions. As a first step towards identification, and subsequent silencing, of the most active members of this class, rhizosecreted proteases are being analyzed by the “Activity-Based Protein Profiling” approach. [less ▲]

The Computerized Meeting Preparation Task: measuring multitasking to predict real world functioning of persons diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Poster (2013, June)

Qualitative Approaches to Monitor Pharmaceutical Blending Processes using In-line Near-Infrared Spectroscopy

Poster (2013, June)

Change in viability of Acetobacter senegalensis cells during gluconic acid fermentation at high temperature

Poster (2013, June)

Introduction: Gluconic acid (GA) is a multifunctional carbonic acid with versatile applications in food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. Although the production of GA and its derivative dating ... [more ▼]

Introduction: Gluconic acid (GA) is a multifunctional carbonic acid with versatile applications in food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. Although the production of GA and its derivative dating backs decades, but use of this acid and its derivatives due to high prices is currently restricted. Using a thermotolerant bacterium in production of this acid at high temperature can provide a new option for industrially cost effective production. However, fermentation productivity may be negatively affected by factors (such as high temperature) leading to loss of cell viability. Objectives: In this study, the ability of a thermotolerant bacterium, Acetobacter senegalensis, in gluconic acid production at high temperature and its survival responses to some factors including temperature and carbon sources were evaluated. Materials and Method: Different batch fermentation processes were carried out at 38 °C, and then cell viability (total dehydrogenase activity) and culturability were assessed using flow cytometry and plate counting techniques, respectively. Results: A. senegalensis oxidized 95 g/L of glucose to gluconic acid at 38 °C. In exponential growth phase, cells were less subjected to damages; but upon transition of cells to stationary phase, cell viability and culturability reduced. Consequently, due to the lack of dehydrogenase activity the specific rate of glucose consumption and gluconic acid production decreased dramatically. High temperature (38 °C), oxidation of high amount of glucose and accumulation of inhibitory compounds (possibly gluconic acid) were dominant inducers leading cells into a viable but non-culturable state (VBNC) during the course of stationary phase. In contrast, presence of ethanol accompanied with glucose, and low incubation temperature assisted in resuscitation of senescent cells of stationary phase. Conclusions: A. senegalensis is able to produce gluconic acid at 38 °C. But, due to entrance of cells into VBNC state during stationary phase, the performance of batch fermentation is adversely affected. [less ▲]

To Be Afraid or to Be Proud? The Impact of Emotional Valence and Response Efficacy on Persuasion in Anti-Drink Driving Advertising

Poster (2013, June)

Social marketers traditionally use negative emotions although they can be ineffective on persuasion. However, few social marketers use positive emotions while commercial marketers use them extensively ... [more ▼]

Social marketers traditionally use negative emotions although they can be ineffective on persuasion. However, few social marketers use positive emotions while commercial marketers use them extensively. Accordingly, this study aims to understand the impact of positive versus negative emotional appeals on persuasion of young adults in a road safety context through a 2 (pride versus fear) × 2 (low versus high response efficacy) factorial design. ANCOVA results show the significant role of both types of emotions on persuasion, regardless the level of response efficacy. Surprisingly, “fear” is more persuasive than “pride”. Hence, social marketers should consider using emotions when building future models and communication campaigns targeting young adults. Future research should investigate under which conditions ‘pride’ can be the most persuasive. [less ▲]

Study of interface trap density in a GeSn MOS structure by numerical simulation of the electrical characteristics

Poster (2013, June)

Au delà des nombres réels

Poster (2013, June)

Maladie hémolytique néonatale modérée due à un anti‐RH46

Poster (2013, June)

The characterization of the food insecurity risk through the vulnerability assessment in Republic of Niger

Poster (2013, May 30)

Combination of actor's play training and assertiveness program to reduce difficulties in self-affirmation: A preliminary study.

Poster (2013, May 28)

BACKGROUND. Difficulties in assertiveness are often reported by individuals suffering from various psychological problems involving anxiety, depression. Cognitive and behavioral therapeutic procedures ... [more ▼]

BACKGROUND. Difficulties in assertiveness are often reported by individuals suffering from various psychological problems involving anxiety, depression. Cognitive and behavioral therapeutic procedures have already proven their effectiveness in helping these patients. The aim of our study was to test the efficacy of new therapeutic procedure, inspired by the third wave of behavioral and cognitive psychotherapies. METHOD. Our study used an actor’s play training combined with an assertiveness program which comprised ten sessions: five of which were animated by an actress and five by a psychologist-psychotherapist. Each actor play’s session was given alternatively with a psychoeducation’s session. Twenty subjects participated in this program. They fulfilled these pre and post-test assessments: social self-efficacy questionnaire, self-affirmation scales, self-esteem scale, communication scale, anxiety and depression scales. Repeated measures’ ANOVAs have been used to compare pre and post-test results. RESULTS. Results showed statistically significant improvements on each dependent variable, except for the Communication Scale. The higher effects appeared for Beck Depression Inventory and Social Self-efficacy Questionnaire which presented an effect size of 0,74 and 0,56, respectively. Scores on STAI-A and B and on Self-affirmation Scale were over the effect size’s threshold. However, these improvements don’t attain control group’s scores reported in the scientific literature. DISCUSSION. The results highlighted that our program is effective in reducing difficulties in assertiveness. [less ▲]

Verbalizing musical memories: influence of perceptual and verbal expertise

Poster (2013, May 28)

Psychosocial needs and perception of inequity: How spouses react to the cancer of their partner?

Poster (2013, May 28)

Background. Several studies have highlighted the importance of psychosocial needs in cancer patients’ spouses. Our study’s aim was to reduce these spouses’ needs, using a combination of two ... [more ▼]

Background. Several studies have highlighted the importance of psychosocial needs in cancer patients’ spouses. Our study’s aim was to reduce these spouses’ needs, using a combination of two psychotherapeutic methods: 1. Psychosocial needs’ organization into a hierarchy; 2. Problem-solving method. We also assessed perception of inequity, which is a new concept used in psycho-oncology. This perception focusses on two feelings that spouses might experience in their relationships: firstly, the feeling of overbenefit and underinvestment; secondly, the feeling of underbenefit and overinvestment. Method. A longitudinal design with three assessments (T0,T1,T2) and two groups (experimental, control) was employed. Spouses fulfilled questionnaires: socio-demographic questionnaire, Psychosocial Needs Inventory, Perception of Inequity, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. At T0, all participants organised their psychosocial needs into a hierarchy. Experimental group practiced problem-solving method before control group. Indeed, experimental group practiced it between T0 and T1 while control group practiced it only between T1 and T2. Results. Thirty-seven spouses participated: N experimental group=19; N control group=18. Whenever the combination was given, repeated measures’ ANOVAs highlighted a significant decrease in unsatisfied psychosocial needs when participants have received both methods. Nevertheless, our results did not replicate previous findings according to which spouses experience a higher feeling of overinvestment and underbenefit than feeling of underinvestment and overbenefit. Discussion. Our results underline the interest of proposing psychotherapeutic methods to cancer patients’ spouses to reduce unsatisfied psychosocial needs. [less ▲]

Is novelty seeking a stable trait or not? Study of the importance of the environment in Swiss mice

Poster (2013, May 28)

Person description abilities in children, adolescents and adults

Poster (2013, May 28)

Energy spectrum and point spread function comparison of pin-hole and parallel-hole collimators for 90Y bremsstrahlung imaging

Poster (2013, May 25)

Assessment of a CDA rotary atomizer for weed control

Poster (2013, May 23)

Spinning disc sprayers were first introduced to control cotton pests and diseases. These atomizers were recognized for their production of a uniform droplet size spectrum than conventional nozzles. They ... [more ▼]

Spinning disc sprayers were first introduced to control cotton pests and diseases. These atomizers were recognized for their production of a uniform droplet size spectrum than conventional nozzles. They have proved to be the most successful way of delivering pesticides in the form of Controlled Droplet Application (CDA) at very low volume application. But they were almost abandoned since the years of 1990 for high and medium volume application. Their use was found inefficient in arable crops such as cereals due to the use of inappropriate application rate and problem of penetration of spray in cereal canopies. However, these spray generators may be the best solution when the spray was to be targeted to a small weed with hydrophobic leaf surface where adhesion in the impact is essential for treatment efficiency while minimizing drift and splash thanks to reduced droplet span. In this study, aiming to maximize the control of black grass in cereals, characterization of the droplet size spectra was performed to predict the trajectory droplet and estimate the number that will hit the targeted surface. So, a CDA Micromax Ltd rotary atomizer 3S was operated at different rotation speeds (2000, 3500 and 5000 rpm), flow rates and pressures. A camera X stream -3S which allows the acquisition images in PIV mode, connected to a led lightening set at double mode exposure, were placed in front of the edge of the disc on a spray bench. Images were treated through a laboratory developed Matlab code for Particle Tracking Velocimetry Sizing. Droplets speeds according to diameters were extracted. Droplets cumulative volume according to diameters was also obtained. As the flow rate rose, the volume median diameter (VMD) increased. On the other hand, the VMD decreased as the rotation speed increased. Satellites droplets were observed when the atomizer was operating at a disc speed of 2000 rpm. For each flow rate corresponding to a drop size VMD, the number of droplets/cm2 that will affect pesticide coverage was calculated. Thus, the number of droplets that will effectively adhere depend on their impact at the moment of their arrival to the surface target. [less ▲]

The most non-classical symmetric states of an N-qubit system

Poster (2013, May 23)

Prevalence of PRRS virus in Wallonia (Belgium)

Poster (2013, May 22)

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) causes major economical losses in pig farms. In different parts of the world, there is a growing consensus that PRRS virus (PRRSv) eradication should ... [more ▼]

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) causes major economical losses in pig farms. In different parts of the world, there is a growing consensus that PRRS virus (PRRSv) eradication should be performed on a regional basis, particularly in low density areas of pig production. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the apparent prevalence of PRRSv in Wallonia, a low density area of pig production (0.05 pig farms/km²). At this stage of the study, a phone survey has been addressed to 61/276 Walloon breeding pig owners. Fifty-eight answered to the questionnaire: 51 are responsible of a farrow-to-finish farm, 6 of a farrowing farm and 1 of a PRRS-free boar station. In 35% of the tested farms, sows are vaccinated with a modified live virus (MLV) PRRS vaccine (n=11) or with a killed PRRS vaccine (n=9). In two farms, both sows and piglets are vaccinated with a MLV PRRS vaccine. Replacement gilts are purchased in 33% farms. Among the 38 farms raising replacement gilts, 39% purchase boar(s). Boar semen is purchased in 86% of the farms: 56% purchase only boar semen; 30% purchase both semen and boar(s) and 14% of farms only purchase boar(s). In 22/57 tested farms, clinical signs evocative of PRRSv infection were observed over the last 10 years. In 30 farms a PRRS diagnostic test was performed in the past with a positive result in 17. When the pig owner did agree and if no vaccination was carried out on sows or on piglets, a serological Elisa test was performed in 10 breeding pigs and/or 5 feeder pigs >70 kg (or in all available sera if a smaller number of pigs was present). Globally, at herd level and at animal level, the apparent prevalence were respectively 35.2% (95% CI: 23.0-47.4%) and 23.4% (95% CI: 20.1-26.6%). [less ▲]

Dust historical record in ombrotrophic peat: The case study of a NW European bog

Poster (2013, May 16)

Ombrotrophic peatlands are unique environmental archives of natural and anthropogenic atmospheric dust deposition because their surface layers are exclusively fed by atmospheric inputs. Lead (Pb) isotopes ... [more ▼]

Ombrotrophic peatlands are unique environmental archives of natural and anthropogenic atmospheric dust deposition because their surface layers are exclusively fed by atmospheric inputs. Lead (Pb) isotopes have been often used to evidence any anthropogenic influence in peat, but they only record trace metal pollution. Another radiogenic isotope, the Neodymium (Nd), could be also use to discriminate the sources of dust in peat bogs. Dust fluxes were investigated over the last 2500 years in the Misten peat bog in Eastern Belgium. Our aims were to use Nd isotope signature to decipher between local and distal dust supplies, the Pb isotopes to trace the antropogenic influences. To address these aims we analyzed REE and lithogenic element analyses, as well as the Nd and Pb isotopes, using HR-ICP-MS and MC-ICP-MS, respectively in peat layers dated by 210Pb and 14C. Changes in REE concentration variations in peat samples are correlated with Ti, Al, and Zr that are lithogenic conservative elements, suggesting that REE are immobile in the studied peat bogs and can be used as tracers of dust deposition. Dust fluxes show pronounced increase at BC300, AD600, 1000AD, 1200AD and from 1700AD, recording either influence of human activities (regional erosion due to forest clearing and soil cultivation activities) or local and regional climate changes. Lead enrichments reveal strong human impact over the last 300 years. Lead isotope signatures are consistent with local and regional contamination by coal combustion and smelting activities. Neodymium isotopes allow to identify three periods characterised by dominant-distal sources (at 320AD, 1000 AD and 1700AD). Those periods are consistent with local wetter intervals as indicated by lower humification degree. Local erosion prevails durier drier (higher humification) intervals (-100AD, 600AD). On a global scale more distal supplies are driven during colder periods, in particular Oort and Maunder minima, confirming the hypothesis that cold climate conditions favor distal supplies. Combining geochemical elementary content and isotope data in ombrotrophic peat allows to decipher between dust flux changes related to human and climate forcing. [less ▲]

Evaluation of gross primary production, community respiration, and net community production in various benthic communities (Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadow, Posidonia oceanica litter, epilithic macro-algae) in the Bay of Revellata (Corsica) using optodes

Poster (2013, May 07)

ISD high-throughput platform for the sequencing of animal toxins

Poster (2013, May 03)

Etude tribologique sur des lubrifants solides à haute température

Poster (2013, May)

Actuellement, environ 2/3 de l’énergie libérée par la combustion de l’essence est rejetée sous forme de chaleur, soit dans les gaz d’échappement, soit dans le liquide de refroidissement. Un cycle de ... [more ▼]

Actuellement, environ 2/3 de l’énergie libérée par la combustion de l’essence est rejetée sous forme de chaleur, soit dans les gaz d’échappement, soit dans le liquide de refroidissement. Un cycle de Rankine peut être utilisé afin de valoriser la chaleur des gaz d’échappement. Cependant, aucune machine de détente commerciale n’est adaptée aux conditions de récupération d’énergie sur gaz d’échappement. La tribologie, plus particulièrement celle des lubrifiants solides à haute température, peut intervenir afin d’étudier les couples de matériaux adéquats pour réaliser les joints de la machine de détente du cycle. Cela permet de réduire les pertes globales de la machine et d’en améliorer le rendement. [less ▲]

Women in the Top Management of Belgian Family Business : Obstacles, Contributions and Advantages

Poster (2013, May)

The contribution of Multidimensional IRT for modeling applicants performance on a SJT.

Poster (2013, May)

Situational judgment tests (SJTs) are testing methods often used in Personnel Selection to appraise different constructs (Whetzel & McDaniel, 2009). In the framework of an overall career progression ... [more ▼]

Situational judgment tests (SJTs) are testing methods often used in Personnel Selection to appraise different constructs (Whetzel & McDaniel, 2009). In the framework of an overall career progression program in a Public Administration, SJTs were developed to assess several competencies relevant to both task (e.g. planning, managing, etc.) and contextual performance (e.g. helping behaviour, organizational loyalty, etc.). Each competency is a combination of KSAOs needed to perform efficiently in a specific context (Campion & al., 2012; Le Boterf 2008). Given the lack of internal consistency of SJT and the dichotomous nature of the data, we decide to use Multidimensional Item Response Theory (MIRT) model to examine the issue of construct validity. Based on Hartig & Höhler (2009), we use MIRT compensatory model to estimate the latent covariance structures of the SJT. Different model are tested and compared depending on the number of dimension involved, the nature of the items and latent variables relation (between or within-item multidimensionality) and the number of model parameter (one or two parameter model). The results and findings lead us to discuss some implications (gaining accuracy, modeling performance in complex task, etc.) and limitations (dealing with complex loading structure, etc.) of using IRT, over and above classical test theory, in the specific case of SJTs applicants performance. The originality of this communication also lies in the way we addressed SJTs reliability and construct validity issues with a measurement based model that differs from the one usually used in the field. [less ▲]

Automated radiosynthesis of 1-(2-[18F]fluoroethyl)-tryptophan, a potential substrate for indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase PET imaging

Poster (2013, May)

Environmental footprint of HDPE: comparison between biobased and fossil products

Poster (2013, May)

Biogeochemistry and carbon mass balance of a coccolithophore bloom in the northern Bay of Biscay (June 2006)

Poster (2013, May)

Primary production (PP), calcification (CAL), bacterial production (BP) and dark community respiration (DCR) were measured along with a set of various biogeochemical variables, in early June 2006, at ... [more ▼]

Primary production (PP), calcification (CAL), bacterial production (BP) and dark community respiration (DCR) were measured along with a set of various biogeochemical variables, in early June 2006, at several stations at the shelf break of the northern Bay of Biscay. The cruise was carried out after the main spring diatom bloom that, based on the analysis of a time-series of remotely sensed chlorophyll-a (Chl-a), peaked in mid-April. Remotely sensed sea surface temperature (SST) indicated the occurrence of enhanced vertical mixing (due to internal tides) at the continental slope, while adjacent waters on the continental shelf were stratified, as confirmed by vertical profiles of temperature acquired during the cruise. The surface layer of the stratified water masses (on the continental shelf) was depleted of inorganic nutrients. Dissolved silicate (DSi) levels probably did not allow significant diatom development. We hypothesize that mixing at the continental slope allowed the injection of inorganic nutrients that triggered the blooming of mixed phytoplanktonic communities dominated by coccolithophores (Emiliania huxleyi) that were favoured with regards to diatoms due to the low DSi levels. Based on this conceptual frame, we used an indicator of vertical stratification to classify the different sampled stations, and to reconstruct the possible evolution of the bloom from the onset at the continental slope (triggered by vertical mixing) through its development as the water mass was advected on-shelf and stratified. We also established a carbon mass balance at each station by integrating in the photic layer PP, CAL and DCR. This allowed computation at each station of the contribution of PP, CAL and DCR to CO2 fluxes in the photic layer, and how they changed from one station to another along the sequence of bloom development (as traced by the stratification indicator). This also showed a shift from net autotrophy to net heterotrophy as the water mass aged (stratified), and suggested the importance of extracellular production of carbon to sustain the bacterial demand in the photic and aphotic layers. [less ▲]

Quality controls of no-carrier-added aromatic amino acids such as FDOPA and FTYR produced at curie level

Poster (2013, May)

Aromatic fluoro amino acids such as 2-[18F]fluoro-L-tyrosine (FTYR) and 6-[18F]fluoro-L-DOPA (FDOPA) are useful radiopharmaceuticals for oncologic studies and evaluation of the presynaptic dopaminergic ... [more ▼]

Aromatic fluoro amino acids such as 2-[18F]fluoro-L-tyrosine (FTYR) and 6-[18F]fluoro-L-DOPA (FDOPA) are useful radiopharmaceuticals for oncologic studies and evaluation of the presynaptic dopaminergic function using positron emission tomography. Recently, a no-carrier-added (nca) enantioselective synthesis of these compounds, based on an multistep PTC approach was automated in a FASTlabTM module from GE . From 185 GBq of [18F]fluoride and after 1 hour of synthesis, more than 37 GBq of FTYR or FDOPA are available . This automated production yields enough doses for many PET studies. A monograph for FDOPA prepared by electrophilic substitution exists , but it is not adapted to the nca nucleophilic synthesis of FDOPA and FTYR, as in this case specific activity, by products and possible impurities are different. A complete quality control (QC) has then be developed in accordance with the guidelines of the European Pharmacopeia (Eur. Ph.). [less ▲]

Les projets SUN et SOLEN : Soutenir la régénération durable des quartiers.

Poster (2013, April 30)

Improvement of gluco-amylase B excretion by Aspergillus oryzae in a biofilm reactor

Poster (2013, April 29)

Comparison of Real-Time Aspergillus PCR with Platelia™AspergillusEIA in broncho-alveolar lavage fluids for the diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis in neutropenic and non-neutropenic patients

Poster (2013, April 27)

Objectives. Because of low sensitivity of fungal cultures and lack of standardization of Aspergillus PCR, laboratory diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis still relies on galactomannan (GM) detection in ... [more ▼]

Objectives. Because of low sensitivity of fungal cultures and lack of standardization of Aspergillus PCR, laboratory diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis still relies on galactomannan (GM) detection in broncho-alveolar lavage (BAL) fluids and serum. The aim of this study was double: first, to assess the place of a 18S rRNA Aspergillus real-time PCR test performed in BAL fluid for the diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis (IA) in neutro- and non-neutropenic patients in comparison with GM detection; secondly, to evaluate the use of three different GM cut-off values. Materials and methods. A total of 111 neutropenic and non-neutropenic patients hospitalized at the University hospital of Liège from March to October 2012 with suspicion of IA were included in the study. A total of 138 broncho-alveolar lavage fluids were evaluated by three laboratory diagnostic methods: 1/ culture on Sabouraud agar slants with antibiotics (bioMérieux, France) incubated at 28°C for 28 days; 2/ GM detection (Platelia ™Aspergillus EIA, Biorad) using GM index cut-off values at 0.5, 0.8 and 1, performed three times a week; 3/ a real-time Aspergillus PCR assay performed daily and targeting the 18S rRNA genes by using an in-house method. Clinical, radiological and microbiological data were reviewed for classification of patients. Results. Nine patients developed probable or possible IA. The sensitivity/specificity/positive (VPP) and negative (NPV) predictive values (%) for culture, PCR, and GM using 0,5 as cut-off value were respectively 41/100/100/94, 58/97/70/96, and 91/83/34/99. The use of 0,8 and 1 as GM index cut-off values increased the specificity to 89 and 92% respectively, and the VPP to 44 and 54%. PCR had a better turn-around time and allowed the detection of Aspergillus colonisation. Conclusion: GM detection in BAL fluids using a cut-off value of 1 was the most efficient laboratory test for the diagnosis of IA in neutropenic and non-neutropenic patients. Despite a lower sensitivity, PCR had a better VPP, and allowed the detection of culture-negative Aspergillus colonisations. A shorter turnaround time (TAT) due to daily practice of PCR tests may reduce the time-to-treatment up to 24 hours. [less ▲]

Time variyng groundwater flux measurement using a single well tracer technique

Poster (2013, April 24)

Contaminant mass discharge measurements are often performed at given times or integrated over a certain period of time, using active or passive sampling techniques. One problem arising is that such ... [more ▼]

Contaminant mass discharge measurements are often performed at given times or integrated over a certain period of time, using active or passive sampling techniques. One problem arising is that such measurements may not be representative of the temporal dynamics of the mass discharge variations. These variations can be caused by fluctuations in contaminant concentrations or, more frequently, by changes in the groundwater fluxes. Pollutant mass fluxes are typically estimated through a combination of solute concentrations and groundwater fluxes measured across a control plane made of several multi-level wells. Accurate measurements of local transient Darcy fluxes have been recognized as the weakest points in most of the developed techniques for groundwater contaminant mass flux measurements. The main objective here is to extend the FVPDM technique for temporal monitoring of groundwater fluxes and to demonstrate its ability to be used in combination with passive sampling devices for measurement of contaminant mass fluxes in groundwater. The Finite Volume Point Dilution Method (FVPDM) is a single well tracer technique for the measurement of local groundwater fluxes based on the continuous injection of tracer at very low injection rate (Brouyère et al. 2008). These developments are based on the application of the adapted technique on a case study in a fractured granitic aquifer in Ploemeur (France). This application investigates transient groundwater fluxes that are controlled by pumping in a well nearby the tested piezometers. Long monitoring time series have been recorded under these controlled conditions of transient groundwater flow. Results show the high sensivity of the FVPDM technique to small variations in groundwater flow velocities and its aptitude for long term monitoring of groundwater fluxes. The comparison between the results of FVPDM and classical point dilution tests performed in same conditions shows close correlation. Interpretation of FVPDM tests in transient conditions have been developed together with an evaluation of the uncertainties that can happen if the frequency of the groundwater flow variations is high. The tests carried on the Ploemeur site also illustrate the first ever application of the FVPDM technique between a double-packer system used for the investigation of a defined layer of an aquifer. This innovative application of the FVPDM using packers opens concrete perspectives for investigation of vertical heterogeneities of groundwater fluxes across a well. [less ▲]

CFD Modelisation of homogeneous distribution of solid particles in a stirred tank

Poster (2013, April 24)

In this work, we study the conditions needed to reach homogeneous distribution of solid particles of aluminium salts in water inside a torospherical bottom shaped stirred tank reactor of 70L equipped with ... [more ▼]

In this work, we study the conditions needed to reach homogeneous distribution of solid particles of aluminium salts in water inside a torospherical bottom shaped stirred tank reactor of 70L equipped with a Pfaudler RCI type impeller and three equi-spaced vertical baffles. The aim of the present study is to develop a CFD model describing the quality of particle distribution in industrial scale tanks. This model, validated with experimental data, is afterward used to developed scale-up and scale-down correlations to predict the minimum impeller speed needed to reach homogeneous solid distribution Nhs. The commercial CFD software Fluent 14 is used to model the fluid flow and the solid particle distribution in the tank. The 3D geometry of the tank and the associated mesh are respectively realized by Ansys 14 DesignModeler and Meshing. The Sliding-Mesh approach is used to take the impeller motion into account. Assuming that the discrete solid phase has no influence on the continuous liquid phase behaviour, the fluid flow dynamics may be simulated independently using the well-known k-ε turbulence model. The behaviour of the liquid-solid mixture is then described by implementing the Eulerian Mixture model. Liquid velocity fields simulated by CFD have been validated by comparison with PIV (Particle Image Velocimetry) measurements. Computed values of Nhs are compared with good agreement to experimental data obtained with a nephelometric probe. Results obtained at different scales allowed correlating the Nhs value to the volumetric power consumption. [less ▲]

Diffuse urban and industrial groundwater pollution with metallic trace elements A comparison between affected and unaffected areas

Poster (2013, April 22)

For metalic trace elements, spatially distributed background concentrations will be defined as a function of geological and hydrogeological context and considering the impact of diffuse pollution.

Use of Life Cycle Assessment to determine the environmental impact of thermochemical conversion routes of lignocellulosic biomass: The gasification step

Poster (2013, April 22)

Development of quantitative approaches based on Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering chemical imaging

Poster (2013, April 18)

MOLECULAR DYNAMICS STUDY OF A DNA OLIGONUCLEOTIDE AND ITS COMPLEXES WITH SPECIFIC BINDERS UNDER MECHANICAL STRESS

Poster (2013, April 18)

Complex regulation of the FRD3 gene in Arabidopsis relatives

Poster (2013, April 18)

MALDI-TOFMS analysis of intermediate oligosaccharides produced by the termite Reticulitermes santonensis and its common symbionts

Poster (2013, April 18)