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Background To date, medical history and dedicated questionnaires are the fastest and easiest way to assess risks of joint metal hypersensitivity. No published studies determined the overall prevalence of hypersensitivity to metals in patients with shoulder pathologies. The purpose of this study was therefore to estimate the prevalence of metal hypersensitivity reported by patients with shoulder pathologies, and to identify patients at risk of joint metal hypersensitivity based on a dedicated questionnaire. Methods The authors prospectively asked all adult patients consulting for shoulder pathologies between September 2018 and February 2019 at 10 centers to fill in a form. The main outcome was “reported hypersensitivity to metals,” comprising belt buckles, coins, earrings, fancy jewelry, keys, leather, metallic buttons, piercings, spectacles, watch bracelets, or zips. Results A total of 3217 patients agreed to fill in the survey, aged 55 ± 16 (range, 18-101) with equal proportions of men (51%) and women (49%), and a majority of patients consulting for cuff pathology (55%). A total of 891 (28%) patients had professions considered at risk for metal hypersensitivity. The most frequently reported metal hypersensitivities were fancy jewelry (15%), earrings (13%), and watch bracelets (9%). A total of 629 (20%) patients, of which the vast majority were women, reported hypersensitivity to 1 or more metals. Conclusions This survey of 3217 patients identified 20% who reported metal hypersensitivities, though only 2.2% had done patch tests. Matching profiles of those with positive patch tests to those with no patch tests revealed that 9.4% of the total cohort had similar sex and self-reported metal hypersensitivities. Factors associated with a positive patch test were female sex, self-reported cutaneous allergy, and self-reported metal hypersensitivity. The clinical applicability of these estimates remains uncertain as there is insufficient evidence that allergy to metal implants can be predicted by questionnaires or patch tests.

Introduction Environ 7 % des melanomes surviennent dans un contexte evocateur d’une predisposition hereditaire, or seuls 20 % d’entre eux ont une cause moleculaire clairement identifiee a ce jour. Au decours de l’analyse somatique d’un melanome, il arrive de detecter des mutations constitutionnelles. Materiel et methodes Le test NGS FoundationOne® permettant le sequencage de 315 genes a ete propose a un patient de 23 ans atteint de melanome stade III dans un contexte de multiples antecedents familiaux de melanomes (mere et 2 sœurs, l’une decedee de son melanome a 33 ans). Une CGH-array a ete realisee a partir d’ADN tumoral. L’immunohistochimie (IHC) des proteines impliquees dans la voie Wnt/β-catenine a ete realisee sur le melanome du patient et une serie de melanomes controles. Les caracteristiques cliniques de la famille ont ete recueillies. Resultats Le test FoundationOne® sur ADN tumoral a mis en evidence une mutation BRAFV600E avec une frequence allelique (FA) de 3 % associee a une mutation CTNNA1 F611fs*10 (gene suppresseur de tumeur codant pour l’α-catenine). Cette mutation, responsable d’un decalage du cadre de lecture induisant un codon stop, est trouvee avec une FA de 41 %. Cette discordance de FA pouvait faire evoquer une mutation constitutionnelle de CTNNA1, confirmee dans le sang de sa mere et sa sœur. La CGH sur l’ADN tumoral a identifie une perte segmentaire du chromosome 5 en 5q31.2. Cette perte bi-allelique de CTNNA1 se traduit par une perte d’expression de CTNNA1 en IHC dans le melanome du patient. Sur le plan clinique, les 7 melanomes familiaux ont ete operes a un âge moyen de 29 ans (18–56), 2 etaient avances (Breslow 6,7 mm/metastatique d’emblee), et les autres etaient des SSM in situ (n = 4) ou de Breslow 0,56 mm (n = 1). Le patient index presente une agenesie dentaire, une fente labiopalatine et un goitre multinodulaire. Enfin, le sequencage haut debit FoundationOne® sur une serie de 4889 melanomes successifs a retrouve CTNNA1 mute dans 145 cas (3 %). Les mutations perte de fonction sont frequemment associees a des mutations activatrices de BRAF ou NRAS. Discussion CTNNA1 est un frein de la voie Wnt/β-catenine. In vitro, sa perte de fonction favorise l’evolution metastatique par hyperproliferation et perte d’adhesion cellulaire. Des mutations germinales CTNNA1 ont ete mises en cause dans les cancers du sein lobulaires et les cancers gastriques diffus familiaux. Nous decrivons ici la 1ere mutation CTNNA1 dans un contexte de melanomes familiaux. Conclusion CTNNA1 est un bon candidat pour expliquer les multiples melanomes de cette famille, avec selon le modele des 2 hits de Knudson, une mutation constitutionnelle tronquante de CTNNA1 et une perte somatique d’un segment du chromosome 5. Outre des perspectives de prevention/depistage precoce du melanome chez les porteurs de mutation CTNNA1, une meilleure connaissance de cette voie oncogenique pourrait aider a concevoir de nouvelles strategies de combinaison de therapies ciblees dans le traitement du melanome.

Summary Background Capillary malformation–arteriovenous malformation syndrome (CM-AVM) is an autosomal dominant disorder first described in 2003. Patients and methods An 8-year-old girl was referred for the progressive appearance of multiple capillary malformations in childhood, evocative of CM-AVM syndrome. Molecular analysis of the RASA1 gene revealed a mutation but further examinations did not show arteriovenous malformation. Discussion CM-AVM syndrome is an autosomal dominant disease caused by RASA1 gene mutations. More than 100 mutations have been identified to date. The EPHB4 gene may also be involved. Capillary malformations with particular characteristics are described. High-flow vascular malformations are associated in 18.5% of cases, with 7.1% being intracerebral. Conclusion CM-AVM syndrome is a recent diagnostic entity. Diagnosis should be considered in the presence of multifocal capillary malformations. This diagnosis may lead to the detection of high-flow arteriovenous malformation and raises the question of specific management for these patients.

In structural dynamics, the quantification of the quality and reliability of numerical models remains a relevant issue. While the behavior of structures such as beams and plates is generally understood, a large number of industrial structures are bolted assemblies of many components with connections that are not well understood. The main reason for this lack of understanding is that the dynamical behavior of the whole assembly depends critically upon joint conditions, especially under heavy loadings. For the purpose of improving our understanding and the development of pertinent models, a dynamic test bed, based on a bolted structure, is designed and modal testing is performed. The configuration of the bolted joint and the level of the loading are the relevant parameters, related to joint conditions, that are considered in this study. The results of the experimental campaign show the variation of the dissipation in a bolted joint and its apparent stiffness as a function of joint conditions.

Introduction Les syndromes PIK3CA Related Overgrowth Spectrum (PROS) sont des syndromes hypertrophiques en lien avec une mutation somatique en mosaique du gene PIK3CA. Il s’agit d’un groupe heterogene de pathologies incluant le CLOVES syndrome, le syndrome megalencephalie - malformation capillaire ou encore certaines formes de fibromatoses. Nous rapportons un cas d’hemihypertrophie faciale chez une enfant en lien avec une mutation de PIK3CA. Observation Une enfant de 5 ans etait adressee en consultation de dermatologie pour une hemihypertrophie faciale droite incluant une hypertrophie de l’oreille, associee a une hemihypertrophie linguale, presente depuis la naissance. Le developpement psychomoteur etait normal. Il n’existait pas d’angiome plan, pas d’hamartome epidermique, pas d’anomalie squelettique mais on constatait une incisive inferieure droite dedoublee. L’imagerie en resonance magnetique (IRM) cerebrale ne montrait pas d’anomalie mais l’IRM faciale revelait une hypertrophie parotidienne droite importante. Une premiere analyse histologique sur biopsie de langue suggerait la presence d’un neurome muqueux, soulevant la question d’une NEM (syndrome des neoplasies endocrines multiples) type IIB en mosaique. La recherche de mutation du gene RET sur tissu atteint etait negative. L’enfant beneficiait a l’âge de 6 ans d’une chirurgie de reduction du volume lingual. L’analyse histologique de ce prelevement de plus grande taille revelait alors une lesion hamartomateuse avec des composantes nerveuses, adipeuses et vasculaires. Une mutation pathogenique en mosaique de PIK3CA deja rapportee H1047R (c.3140A > G) etait identifiee dans le tissu lingual (8 %). Discussion Cette observation correspond cliniquement a une lipomatose faciale infiltrante. La maladie est caracterisee par une hypertrophie hemifaciale pouvant etre associee a des neuromes muqueux, une macrodontie, une hemimacroglossie, une hypertrophie glandulaire salivaire et une hypertrophie osseuse. Le role de PIK3CA dans la physiopathologie de la lipomatose faciale a ete recemment suspecte du fait de la description de cas associant cette lipomatose a un CLOVE syndrome, ainsi qu’a une hemimegalencephalie. De recents travaux sur la lipomatose faciale revelent la presence de la mutation en mosaique de PIK3CA dans tous les tissus atteints : adipeux, mais egalement epitheliaux, nerveux, osseux et musculaires. La prise en charge repose le plus souvent sur un traitement chirurgical. Les therapies ciblant PIK3CA (BYL719) representent un espoir therapeutique pour la prise en charge de cette pathologie invalidante. Conclusion Nous rapportons ici une nouvelle observation de syndrome PROS sous la forme d’une lipomatose faciale infiltrante. La mise en evidence d’une mutation de PIK3CA permet d’envisager une prise en charge par therapie ciblee chez ces patients.

Resume Introduction L’arthroscanner reste l’examen de reference dans l’etude preoperatoire des ruptures de la coiffe des rotateurs. Le but de notre travail etait d’evaluer les variabilites intra- et inter-observateurs de l’analyse arthrotomodensitometrique du tendon du muscle sous-scapulaire, ainsi que d’en etudier sa validite et sa fiabilite. Patients et methode L’etude retrospective portait sur 67 epaules atteintes d’une rupture d’un ou plusieurs tendons de la coiffe des rotateurs, ayant beneficie d’une arthroscopie d’epaule confirmant le diagnostic et ayant permis la prise en charge chirurgicale. Les 67 arthroscanners preoperatoires ont ete interpretes par trois examinateurs differents, les deux premiers ayant effectue l’analyse a deux reprises a un mois d’intervalle. La lecture de chaque examen recherchait une rupture transfixiante ou partielle d’un ou plusieurs tendons de la coiffe des rotateurs, la presence d’une delamination intra-tendineuse, d’une retraction du moignon tendineux et precisait le degre d’infiltration graisseuse. La position de la longue portion du tendon du muscle biceps brachial etait egalement appreciee. L’etude statistique permettait alors de calculer, par la methode de Fleiss, les variabilites intra- et inter-observateurs de l’analyse arthrotomodensitometrique du tendon du muscle sous-scapulaire. La validite de cette analyse etait aussi evaluee par la mesure des coefficients de concordance entre les analyses arthroscopiques et arthrotomodensitometriques. Resultats Pour l’analyse du tendon du muscle sous-scapulaire, la specificite de l’arthroscanner etait satisfaisante. Sa sensibilite etait neanmoins faible. Les variabilites intra- et inter-observateurs etaient significatives. Comme le montraient les calculs des concordances radio-arthroscopiques, les differences entre les interpretations arthrotomodensitometriques des trois examinateurs et l’analyse arthroscopique du tendon sous-scapulaire etaient souvent importantes. Il etait difficile, pour chacun des trois observateurs, de differencier, sur l’arthroscanner, un tendon sous-scapulaire sain, un tendon delamine et un tendon rompu uniquement a son tiers superieur. Discussion et conclusion S’il reste l’examen de reference dans le bilan preoperatoire des ruptures des tendons de la coiffe des rotateurs, l’arthroscanner presente des variabilites significatives lors de l’etude de la continuite du tendon sous-scapulaire. La fiabilite de cette analyse n’est pas optimale, comme l’objective l’etude de concordance radio-arthroscopique. Si les biais d’investigation et de mesure de notre travail doivent ponderer ces conclusions, l’arthroscanner ne semble donc pas autoriser une analyse valide et reproductible de ce tendon. Les places croissantes occupees par l’imagerie par resonance magnetique et par l’arthro-IRM permettront probablement d’en ameliorer l’evaluation preoperatoire. Niveau de preuve Niveau III : etude de valeur diagnostique.

Functions of septin cytoskeletal polymers in tumorigenesis are still poorly defined. Their role in the regulation of cytokinesis and cell migration were proposed to contribute to cancer associated aneuploidy and metastasis. Overexpression of Septin 9 (Sept9) promotes migration of cancer cell lines. SEPT9 mRNA and protein expression is increased in breast tumors compared to normal and peritumoral tissues and amplification of SEPT9 gene was positively correlated with breast tumor progression. However, the existence of multiple isoforms of Sept9 is a confounding factor in the analysis of Sept9 functions. In the present study, we analyze the protein expression of Sept9_i2, an uncharacterized isoform, in breast cancer cell lines and tumors and describe its specific impact on cancer cell migration and Sept9 cytoskeletal distribution. Collectively, our results showed that, contrary to Sept9_i1, Sept9_i2 did not support cancer cell migration, and induced a loss of subnuclear actin filaments. These effects were dependent on Sept9_i2 specific N-terminal sequence. Sept9_i2 was strongly down-regulated in breast tumors compared to normal mammary tissues. Thus our data indicate that Sept9_i2 is a negative regulator of breast tumorigenesis. We propose that Sept9 tumorigenic properties depend on the balance between Sept9_i1 and Sept9_i2 expression levels.

Resume Hypothese Les ruptures du subscapulaire peuvent etre evoquees cliniquement devant une rotation externe passive augmentee en comparatif par rapport au cote oppose, des manœuvres de rotation interne contrariee (Lift-Off test [LOT], Belly-Press test [BPT], Napoleon test et Bear-Hug test [BHT]) et des signes de rappel automatique positifs (Internal Rotation Lag Sign et Belly-Off Sign). Le biceps est frequemment associe aux lesions du subscapulaire car ce dernier participe a la formation de la poulie mediale. Le Palm-Up test [PUT] est utilise pour le biceps comme le test de Jobe pour le supraepineux. Patients et methode Dans le cadre d’une etude multicentrique, nous avons souhaite evaluer la valeur diagnostique positive des tests cliniques LOT, BPT, BHT, PUT et de Jobe, pour les lesions du subscapulaire et leur importance anatomique. Les relations entre les differents parametres etudies ont ete comparees statistiquement en utilisant une analyse de la variance. Cette etude prospective multicentrique de janvier 2009 a fevrier 2010 comprenait 208 cas de lesions du subscapulaire isolees ou associees a une atteinte partielle (Ellman 1, 2, 3) ou transfixiante (stade 1 de la SFA) du supraepineux. Resultats La severite de l’atteinte du subscapulaire a ete quantifiee selon la classification de la SFA (en quatre stades) et selon la hauteur de l’atteinte (tiers proximal et tiers superieur). Les trois tests LOT, BPT et BHT etaient correles a severite des lesions observees (p Conclusion Malgre la realisation des trois tests (LOT, BPT, BHT), 24 % des lesions du subscapulaire n’etaient diagnostiquees qu’en peroperatoire. L’apport des signes de rappel automatique dans l’amelioration du diagnostic lesionnel n’a pas ete etudie dans ce travail. Niveau de preuve II.

Resume L’absence d’un systeme coherent de classification des lesions du sub-scapularis a rendu difficile la communication en matiere de traitement et de pronostic pour les differents types de rupture du sub-scapularis. En outre, une classification fiable fournit un moyen de comparaison des donnees epidemiologique et therapeutiques. Les classifications jusqu’alors proposees n’integraient pas les constatations radiologiques et peroperatoires de la coulisse du biceps et le degre de clivage du tendon du sub-scapulaire. Cette etude propose une nouvelle classification basee sur les constatations arthroscopiques a visee therapeutique et pronostic. Methode Il s’agit d’une etude prospective multicentrique promue par la Societe francaise d’arthroscopie de mars 2010 a janvier 2011. Cent cinquante cas de lesions isolees du sub-scapularis et d’atteinte anterosuperieure limitee ont ete etudies. La coulisse du biceps et l’insertion du feuillet profond du sub-scapularis ont ete explorees systematiquement par arthroscopie avec enregistrement video. Chaque lesion a ete classee par une analyse realisee par quatre chirurgiens et par convergence entre eux des conclusions lesionnelles. Resultats Quatre types lesionnels ont ete definis et sont bases sur les lesions constatees au niveau de la coulisse bicipitale. Le type I comprenait les lesions partielles de desinsertion des fibres du sub-scapularis de la petite tuberosite, sans lesion de la coulisse bicipitale. Le type II correspondait aux lesions partielles des fibres du sub-scapularis sur la petite tuberosite associees a une lesion partielle du mur anterieur de la coulisse bicipitale, mais avec conservation du ligament gleno-humeral superieur. Le type III correspondait a une desinsertion complete des fibres du sub-scapulaire de la petite tuberosite associee a une large fente de la coulisse bicipitale. Le stade IV correspondait a la desinsertion complete des fibres du sub-scapulaire, pouvant s’associer au « comma sign » par la reunion de fibres du sub-scapulaire et du supraepineux. Toutes les lesions constatees en peroperatoire pouvaient etre classees dans un de ces types a quelques exceptions pres. Discussion Une classification reproductible permet une description homogene des lesions entre les chirurgiens et a alors un interet therapeutique et/ou pronostique. Cette nouvelle classification permet de definir quatre types lesionnels facilement identifiables en cas de lesions du sub-scapularis isolee ou associee a une lesion antero-superieure de la coiffe des rotateurs. Cette classification peut etre completee en integrant des elements concernant la longue portion du biceps et l’infiltration graisseuse du muscle. Une etude de reproductibilite intra- et interobservateur reste necessaire pour completer la validation de son interet diagnostique ou pronostique. Niveau de preuve Niveau 2.

Resume Introduction Jusqu’a l’utilisation de l’arthroscopie dans la chirurgie de la coiffe des rotateurs, la frequence des lesions du subscapulaire est restee longtemps sous-estimee. Par ailleurs, leur traitement meme sous controle arthroscopique reste difficile. L’absence de classification reellement specifique des lesions du subscapulaire a rendu difficile la communication en matiere de traitement et de pronostic pour les differents types de rupture du sous-scapulaire. Le but de cette etude prospective multicentrique etait de valider la pertinence du traitement arthroscopique des lesions du subscapulaire en analysant les resultats a court terme, en fonction de l’importance initiale des lesions anatomiques. Methode Il s’agit d’une etude prospective multicentrique menee sous l’egide de la Societe francaise d’arthroscopie de mars 2010 a janvier 2011. Deux cent-huit cas de lesions isolees du subscapulaire ou associees a une d’atteinte antero-superieure limitee. Une evaluation des resultats cliniques (Score de Constant et University of California Los Angeles rating scale [UCLA]), anatomiques et du pronostic tenant compte de l’examen clinique, de l’imagerie pre- et postoperatoire et des lesions anatomiques mises en evidence a ete possible pour les donnees cliniques, sur un groupe de 103 patients ayant un recul d’un an et pour les donnees radiologiques, sur un groupe de 129 patients ayant au moins six mois de recul. Resultats Les resultats cliniques preliminaires portent sur 103 patients revus au recul minimal d’un an. Il existait une amelioration globale, statistiquement significative des scores de Constant et UCLA, avec dans ces cas une disparition des signes cliniques. Cette amelioration semblait augmenter avec le recul. Apres, classification en quatre groupes lesionnels des patients, en fonction des lesions anatomiques observees, il existait egalement une difference significative des resultats cliniques entre les differents types lesionnels. Les resultats anatomiques, apprecies par une imagerie postoperatoire chez tous les patients ayant au moins six mois de recul (n = 129) comportaient 92 % de cicatrisation tendineuse, mais associee dans 18,6 % a une amyotrophie de la partie superieur du subscapulaire et une majoration de l’infiltration graisseuse du corps musculaire. Discussion Notre etude confirme les bons resultats cliniques et radiologiques deja publies dans la litterature. L’utilisation d’une classification des lesions en quatre groupes a montre qu’elle etait utilisable des le bilan d’imagerie. Cette classification permettait surtout de differencier les resultats entre les types II et III. La tendance a l’amelioration des resultats avec le recul doit etre confirmee par une evaluation a plus long terme, de meme que l’absence de caractere pejoratif de l’aggravation de l’amyotrophie superieure du subscapulaire et de l’infiltration graisseuse. Niveau de preuve 3.

Resume Les objectifs de cette etude consacree au traitement arthroscopique de l’instabilite anterieure chronique de l’epaule etaient le recueil des pratiques, leur evolution dans la litterature et l’analyse des resultats preliminaires d’une serie prospective multicentrique d’interventions de Bankart arthroscopiques realisees avec une technique commune sur des patients selectionnes en utilisant le score Instability Severity Index Score (ISIS). Cette intervention predomine dans le monde anglo-saxon alors que la butee de Latarjet est preferee en France. Le choix apparait culturel car aucune hierarchisation des criteres d’indications entre les differentes techniques n’a pu etre mise en evidence par l’analyse des 117 reponses au questionnaire internet de cette etude. La litterature rapporte les resultats decevants de l’intervention de Bankart arthroscopique et les articles recents ont recherche les facteurs predictifs de son echec. Onze centres ont inclus prospectivement 125 patients du 1 er decembre 2007 au 30 novembre 2008. Les criteres d’inclusion etaient la repetition d’accidents d’instabilite anterieure et un score ISIS inferieur ou egal a 4 points sur 10. Tous les patients selectionnes ont beneficie d’une reinsertion capsuloligamentaire avec une technique minimale commune d’au moins trois ancres et quatre sutures avec un protocole postoperatoire commun. Au recul moyen de 18 mois, quatre patients (3,2 %) ont recidive. Pour les 84 patients reexamines a un an, les scores de Walch-Duplay et de Rowe etaient respectivement de 88,4 et de 87,8 points sur 100. Subjectivement, 88,1 % des patients se declaraient satisfaits et referaient l’intervention. Cette etude a confirme la simplicite d’utilisation du score ISIS comme outil de consultation. Seule sa poursuite de l’etude avec l’obtention d’un recul minimum de trois ans permettra de valider la limite inferieure du score ISIS en dessous de laquelle cette technique pourra etre proposee a la condition qu’elle respecte le prerequis technique de quatre sutures capsuloligamentaires minimum. Niveau de preuve Niveau IV. Serie prospective non randomisee.

In order to describe the state-of-the-art on cracked rotor related problems, the current work presents the comprehensive theoretical, numerical and experimental approach adopted by EDF for crack detection in power plant rotating machinery. The work mainly focuses on the theoretical cracked beam model developed in the past years by S. Andrieux and C. Vare and associates both numerical and experimental aspects related to the crack detection problem in either turboset or turbo pump units. The theoretical part consists of the derivation of a lumped cracked beam model from the three-dimensional formulation of the general problem of elasticity with unilateral contact conditions on the crack lips, valid for any shape and number of cracks in the beam section and extended to cracks not located in a cross-section. This leads to the assessment of the cracked beam rigidity as a function of the rotation angle, in case of pure bending load or bending plus shear load. In this way the function can be implemented in a 1D rotordynamics code. An extension of the cracked beam model taking into account the torsion behaviour is also proposed. It is based on the assumption of full adherence between crack lips, when the crack closes, and on an incremental formulation of deformation energy. An experimental validation has been carried out using different cracked samples, both in static and dynamic configurations, considering one or three elliptic cracks in the same cross-section and helix-shaped cracks. Concerning the static configuration, a good agreement between numerical and experimental results is found. It is shown to be equal to 1% maximal gap of the beam deflection. Concerning the dynamical analysis, the main well-known indicator 2× rev. bending vibration component at half critical speed is approximated at maximum by 18% near the crack position. Our experiments also allowed for the observation of the bending and torsion resonance frequency shifts determined by the extra-flexibility induced by the crack in the shaft. The validated crack model is then applied to predict the dynamical behaviour of large industrial rotating machinery and to verify the crack detection capability based on the vibratory response. With respect to 900 MW turboset units, with cracks affecting LP rotors, a map of crack detection capabilities, based on 1× rev. and 2× rev. components as a function of circumferential extension ratio and crack depth, is drawn. If the crack depth is higher than 37% of the rotor diameter, on-line measurements of 2× rev. vibratory level shift allow to detect the crack. On the opposite, 1× rev. monitoring is necessary for cracks with circumferential extension superior to 270°. It is also observed that LP rotor bending mode shift monitoring theoretically allows to detect cracks with depths equal to or greater than 20% of the rotor diameter or with circumferential extension greater than 120°. The difficulties encountered for distinguishing the LP rotor bending mode frequencies, which may also evolve in time, independently from the cracks, limit the industrial application of this latter technique. Therefore new studies will focus on the analysis of torsion dynamic behaviour and on its sensitivity to cracks. With respect to RCP units, when half of the shaft section is cracked, the 2× rev. component remains very small. Whilst the result is simply due to a small excitation, a more accurate estimation of the external forces acting on the shaft could lead to more accurate numerical predictions.

Resume Les coronavirus humains (HCoV) ont ete impliques dans la survenue d'infections respiratoires nosocomiales chez les nouveau-nes. Plusieurs cas d'infections neonatales ont ete mis en evidence. Cette etude pilote recherche l'existence d'une eventuelle transmission maternofœtale des HCoV pouvant expliquer les cas infections neonatales observees dans les premieres 24 heures de vie. Materiel et methode Etude monocentrique prospective pilote. Etude des couples mere–enfant par la realisation de trois prelevements : vaginal et respiratoire chez la mere (VM et RM) lors du travail, gastrique chez le nouveau-ne (GNN). Suivi clinique des nouveau-nes et des meres jusqu'a j3. Analyse virologique des echantillons par reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) en temps reel pour la recherche des HCoV 229-E et OC43. Resultats Cent cinquante-neuf couples mere–enfant ont ete inclus de juillet 2003 a aout 2005. Seul HCoV 229-E a ete detecte dans 11 echantillons chez six couples mere–enfant. Pour deux couples, les trois prelevements (VM, RM et GNN) etaient positifs (cas 1 et 2). Pour le cas 3, seuls le VM et GNN etaient positifs. Pour deux couples, seuls les RM etaient positifs (cas 4 et 5). Pour le cas 6, seul le VM etait positif. Pour les trois GNN positifs, aucun enfant n'etait symptomatique. Conclusion Une possible transmission verticale des HCoV est mise en evidence dans cette etude pilote qui necessite desormais d'etre poursuivie a plus large echelle. Il convient egalement d'inclure la recherche des coronavirus humains identifies recemment, HCoV NL63 et HKU1, et d'analyser le profil genomique des HCoV detectes chez les trois couples mere–enfant positifs.

Background: Isolated tears of the subscapularis occur less commonly than those involving the superior and poste- rior components of the rotator cuff. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the structural integrity and clin- ical outcomes after arthroscopic repair of isolated subscapularis tears. Methods: A prospective study of seventeen consecutive patients who were managed with an all-arthroscopic repair of the subscapularis tendon was performed. The study group included thirteen men and four women who had an aver- age age of forty-seven years at the time of surgery. The average interval from the onset of symptoms to the time of surgery was twenty-four months. Thirteen tears were traumatic, and four were degenerative. Seven patients had a tear involving the superior third of the tendon, six had a tear involving the superior two-thirds of the tendon, and four had complete separation of the subscapularis from its insertion on the lesser tuberosity. Clinical findings were as- sessed for all patients preoperatively and postoperatively with use of the Constant and University of California at Los Angeles scoring systems, and all patients had postoperative computed tomographic arthrography studies to evaluate the structural integrity of the repair. Results: The average duration of follow-up was twenty-nine months. When the preoperative findings were compared with the most recent findings, the average relative Constant score had improved from 58% to 96% (p < 0.05), the average University of California at Los Angeles score had improved from 16 to 32 points (p < 0.05), the average pain score had improved from 5.9 to 13.5 points (p < 0.05), the average forward flexion had improved from 146° to 175° (p < 0.05), the average external rotation had improved from 50° to 60.3° (p < 0.05), the average internal rotation had improved from the level of the sacrum to L1-L2 (p < 0.05), and the average abduction strength had improved from 7.4 to 15.6 points (p < 0.05). The structural integrity of the repair was completely intact in fifteen patients and was par- tially reruptured in two patients on the basis of computed tomographic arthrography. Progression of fatty infiltration of the subscapularis was not observed in any patient. Subjectively, twelve patients were very satisfied with the result, four were satisfied, and one was not satisfied. Conclusions: Arthroscopic repair of an isolated subscapularis tear can yield marked improvements in shoulder func- tion, can significantly reduce pain, and can result in a durable structural repair. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions to Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

International audience; When studying mechanical systems, engineers usually consider that mathematical models and structural parameters are deterministic. However, experimental results show that these elements are uncertain in most cases, due to natural variability or lack of knowledge. Therefore, engineers are becoming more and more interested in uncertainty quantification. In order to improve the predictability and robustness of numerical models, a variety of methods and techniques have been developed. In this work we propose to review the main probabilistic approaches used to model and propagate uncertainties in structural mechanics. Then we present the Lack-Of-Knowledge theory that was recently developed to take into account all sources of uncertainties. Finally , a comparative analysis of different parametric probabilistic methods and the Lack-Of-Knowledge theory in terms of accuracy and computation time provides useful information on modeling and propagating uncertainties in structural dynamics.

Resume Le but de ce travail etait d’evaluer les resultats cliniques et radiologiques a moyen terme des tenotomies arthroscopiques du chef long du biceps brachial dans le traitement des ruptures jugees irreparables de la coiffe des rotateurs. La serie se composait de 40 epaules operees d’une tenotomie isolee dans 32 cas et associee a une acromioplastie dans 8 cas. Le recul moyen etait de 30 mois. La rupture de la coiffe interessait le seul supra-epineux dans 11 cas, le supra-epineux et l’infra-epineux dans 12 cas, le supra-epineux et le subscapularis dans 9 cas et les trois tendons dans 8 cas. A la revision, le score de Constant brut moyen etait de 58 points soit un gain de 20 points. Le gain concernait la douleur (+ 7,1 points), le niveau d’activite (+ 6,6 points) et la mobilite (+6,4 points). Seule la force musculaire en flexion-supination du coude etait diminuee par l’intervention puisque les mesures realisees sur les patients operes revelaient une diminution de 40 % comparativement a une serie temoin appariee a l’âge, au sexe et en tenant compte de la dominance du membre. L’analyse radiographique au recul ne revelait pas de tendance generale a l’excentration superieure de la tete humerale ou au developpement d’une omarthrose secondaire. Toutefois, 2 patients, au recul de 41 et de 72 mois, avaient developpe une arthose excentree. Les resultats a moyen terme de la tenotomie arthroscopique du chef long du biceps brachial sont satisfaisants au prix d’un geste techniquement simple aux consequences fonctionnelles limitees. Toutefois, la degradation du resultat chez une patiente au recul de 6 ans doit nous rendre prudent sur le benefice a long terme de cette intervention.

Resume Neuf cas de metatarsus elevatus acquis ou horizontalisation du premier metatarsien avec hallux flexus ( dorsal bunion ) ont ete traites par une technique chirurgicale associant resection cuneiforme plantaire de la base du premier metatarsien ou du premier cuneiforme ; desinsertion distale et deroulement du tendon long flechisseur de l’hallux au-dessous de la base du premier metatarsien puis reinsertion sur un lambeau capsulaire dorsal distal de l’articulation metatarso-phalangienne ; desinsertion distale du tendon tibial anterieur et tenodese au tendon tibial posterieur. Apres embrochage d’alignement du premier rayon pendant un mois, l’appui avait ete autorise. Les resultats enregistres au recul moyen de 11 ans sont satisfaisants sur le plan morphologique : aucune recidive de la deformation n’a ete enregistree, il n’existe aucune instabilite residuelle du premier rayon. Seul subsiste un leger enraidissement de l’articulation metatarso-phalangienne sans remaniement arthrosique.

In this article, a model is described that allows one to simulate the static behavior of a transversal crack in a horizontal rotor, under the action of the weight and other possible static loads and the dynamical behavior of the rotating cracked shaft. The crack “breaths,” i.e., the mechanism of opening and closing of the crack, is ruled by the stress acting on the cracked section due to the external loads; in a rotor the stress is time-depending with a period equal to the period of rotation, thus the crack “periodically breaths.” An original simplified model is described that allows cracks of different shape to be modeled and thermal stresses to be taken into account, since they may influence the opening and closing mechanism. The proposed method has been validated using two criteria. Firstly, the crack “breathing” mechanism, simulated with the model, has been compared with the results obtained by a nonlinear 3-D FEM calculation and a good agreement in the results has been observed. Secondly, the proposed model allows the development of the equivalent cracked beam. The results of this model are compared with those obtained by the above-mentioned 3-D FEM. There is a good agreement in the results, of this case as well.Therefore, the proposed crack model and equivalent beam model can be inserted in the finite beam element model used for the rotor dynamical behavior simulation—the obtained equations have time-depending coefficients, but they can be integrated in the frequency domain by using the harmonic balance method. The model is suitable for finite beam elements with six degrees of freedom per node, in order to account also for torsion vibrations and coupling between torsion and flexural vibrations.

International audience; This paper deals with the identification of a stochastic computational model using experimental eigenfrequencies and mode shapes. In presence of randomness, it is difficult to construct a one-to-one correspondence between the results provided by the stochastic computational model and the experimental data because of the random modes crossing and veering phenomena that may occurs from one realization to another one. In this paper, this correspondence is constructed by introducing an adapted transformation for the computed modal quantities. Then the transformed computed modal quantities can be compared with the experimental data in order to identify the parameters of the stochastic computational model. The methodology is applied to a booster pump of thermal units for which experimental modal data have been measured on several sites.

SummaryHypothesisClinically, subscapularis tendon tears are suggested by the presence of increased passive external rotation compared to the opposite side, resisted internal rotation manoeuvres (Lift-Off test [LOT], Belly-Press test [BPT], Napoleon test and Bear-Hug test [BHT] and positive Internal Rotation Lag Sign and/or Belly-Off Signs). Associated bicipital involvement is frequent with subscapularis tendon tears, because it participates in the formation of the biceps pulley. The Palm-Up test (PUT) is used for the biceps, and the Jobe test for the supraspinatus.Material and methodsIn this multicenter study, we evaluated the positive diagnostic value of the clinical tests, LOT, BPT, BHT, PUT, and the Jobe test for subscapularis tears as well as their anatomical value. The relationships of the different parameters studied were compared statistically by analysis of variance (ANOVA). This prospective multicenter study was performed from January 2009 to February 2010 and included 208 cases of subscapularis tendon tears, isolated or associated with partial (Ellman 1, 2 or 3) or full thickness (SFA stage 1) supraspinatus tears.ResultsThe severity of the subscapularis tear was quantified according to the SFA classification into four stages and according to the level of injury (the lower 1/3 and upper 2/3). The three tests LOT, BPT and BHT were correlated to the severity of observed tears (P

SummaryBackgroundUntil the introduction of arthroscopic-assisted surgery for rotator cuff repair, the frequency of subscapularis tears was underestimated. These tears remain challenging to treat even with arthroscopy. The absence of a specific classification system has hampered communication about the treatment and outcomes of the various types of subscapularis tears. The objective of this prospective multicentre study was to validate the relevance of arthroscopic subscapularis tendon repair based on an assessment of short-term outcomes according to the initial extent of the anatomic lesions.MethodsA prospective multicentre study sponsored by the French Society for Arthroscopy was conducted from March 2010 to January 2011 in 208 patients with subscapularis lesions that were either isolated or associated with limited anterosuperior tears. The Constant and UCLA scores were used to assess clinical outcomes. Anatomic and prognostic results were evaluated based on the physical examination, preoperative and postoperative imaging study findings, and anatomic lesions. Clinical data were available for 103 patients after at least 1year of follow-up and radiological data for 129 patients after at least 6months.ResultsThe preliminary clinical results in 103 patients with at least 1year of follow-up showed overall statistically significant improvements in the Constant and UCLA scores, with resolution of the clinical manifestations. The degree of improvement seemed to increase over time. The clinical results varied significantly across patient groups based on a classification system distinguishing four lesion types. Postoperative imaging studies to assess the anatomic results in all patients with at least 6months of follow-up (n=129) showed tendon healing in 92% of cases but also indicated muscle wasting of the upper subscapularis muscle in 18.6% of cases and increased fatty degeneration of the muscle belly.DiscussionOur study confirms the good clinical and radiological results reported in the literature. Our classification system distinguishing four lesion patterns was applicable during the imaging workup. The main finding from this classification system was the difference in results between Type 2 and Type 3 lesions. The trend towards improvements over time requires confirmation by longer-term studies, which will also have to establish that the increased wasting of the upper subscapularis muscle and fatty degeneration of the muscle belly have no adverse effects.Level of evidenceLevel 3.

Summary Background Computed tomography (CT) coupled with arthrography remains the reference standard for the preoperative evaluation of rotator cuff tears. The objectives of this study were to evaluate intra-observer and inter-observer reproducibilities of CT-arthrographic assessment of the subscapularis tendon and to assess the validity and reliability of this investigation. Hypothesis CT-arthrography is reliable and reproducible for the preoperative characterisation of subscapularis tendon lesions. Material and methods We retrospectively reviewed 67 shoulders with rotator cuff tears in one or more tendons managed by arthroscopy, both to confirm the diagnosis and to allow therapeutic interventions. Each of the 67 preoperative CT-arthrograms was evaluated by three readers, of whom the first two evaluated the images twice at an interval of 30 days. The following were recorded at each reading: partial- or full-thickness tear in one or more rotator cuff tendons, intra-tendinous delamination, tendon stump retraction, and fatty degeneration of the muscles. The position of the long head of biceps tendon was assessed. A statistical analysis was performed using Fleiss’ method to compute intra-observer and inter-observer variabilities in CT-arthrography assessment of the subscapularis tendon status. Validity of this assessment was measured by computing the concordance coefficients between CT-arthrography and arthroscopy. Results Specificity of CT-arthrography was satisfactory for assessing the subscapularis tendon. Sensitivity was low. Significant inter-observer and intra-observer variabilities were documented. The concordance coefficients between CT-arthrography and arthroscopy indicated that major differences were common with all three readers. When assessing the subscapularis tendon by CT-arthrography, all readers experienced difficulties in distinguishing intact tendons, delaminated tendons, and tendons with tears confined to the upper third. Discussion Although CT-arthrography remains the reference standard for the preoperative investigation of rotator cuff tears, significant variability occurs in assessing the continuity of the subscapularis tendon. Reliability of this assessment is not optimal, as shown by our evaluation of concordance with arthroscopy. Although our data should be interpreted in the light of the investigation and measurement biases present in our study, they suggest that CT-arthrography may fail to provide a valid and reproducible assessment of the subscapularis tendon. The development of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and MR-arthrography will probably improve the preoperative evaluation of subscapularis tears in the near future. Level of evidence Level III; diagnostic value study.

International audience; This prospective pilot study investigates the possibility of materno-fetal transmission of human coronaviruses (HCoV) responsible for cases of neonatal infection. This vertical transmission was studied with 159 samples from mother-child couples: maternal vaginal (MV) and respiratory (MR) samples during labor; and newborn gastric sample (NG) with detection of HCoV (229E, OC-43, NL-63, HKU1) via real time RT PCR. HCoV was detected in 12 samples (229E: 11; HKU1: 1) from seven mother-child couples. For three couples, only MR tested positive (cases 1-3). For two other couples all three samples (MV, MR and NG) tested positive (cases 4 and 5). For case 6, only MV and NG tested positive. In case 7, only MV was positive. Possible vertical transmission of HCoV was hypothesized in this pilot study and requires further investigation on a larger scale.

Fatigue cracks can develop in rotating shafts: their propagation is mainly in planes perpendicular to the axis of rotation, but also slant or helicoidal cracks could appear in industrial machine shafts. In this paper the static elastic behaviour of a shaft affected by a slightly helicoidal crack has been analysed by means of 3D finite element non-linear models, calculating deflections in different load conditions. Differences with respect to shafts affected by planar cracks of same depth and extension are emphasized. In order to simulate the dynamic behaviour of rotating shafts, a simplified model of the elastic behaviour of the cracked shaft has been developed, validated and substituted to the cumbersome 3D model. This model has then been introduced in the model of a power plant turbogroup shaft line in order to analyse its behaviour. The results show the additional vibrations caused by the crack which could be measured in different operating conditions of the group.

Sollac Fos a totalement modifie sa metallurgie en poche ces dernieres annees. En particulier, une station CAS-OB de mise a nuance et de rechauffage sous cloche a ete mise en service en septembre 1988.L’article decrit le procede et l’installation, et detaille les performances obtenues un an apres le demarrage : production, consommation d’aluminium, precision analytique atteinte, tenue des refractaires.

Kirchhoff Pre-Stack Depth Migration (PreSDM) can output images according to multiple angle attributes: reflection angles, illumination dip angles, and their combination. The images can be Common Image Gathers (CIG), that is, images corresponding to one or several attributes at a same observation location, or common angle images, that is, structural images for a single angle attribute at a time. Both images and CIGs can be used as interpretive and diagnosis tools. In this paper we demonstrate that the user can perform a selective stacking within a multi-angle CIGs, to produce an improved final image, free of some migration artifacts and undesirable noise. The steered stacking gives more flexibility than migration with a dip model, particularly in presence of multiple dips (faults, terminations, etc.).

Summary We perform a series of numerical modelling and migration experiment with different homogeneous TTI anisotropic media, characterized by tilt axis, polar velocity and anisotropy parameters. In the case of structurally conformable media, where the tilt of the medium coincides with the dip of the structure, great simplifications arise in the decoupling of the anisotropy parameters. In particular, positioning and short spread focusing become decoupled from long-spread behaviour. We show that in this case, the tilt of the medium can be observed with sufficient accuracy on an image obtained by isotropic or VTI elliptic migration with an educated estimate of the Thomsen parameter delta. Introduction Anisotropic velocity model building tools and migration techniques have been in use for many years and have gained industry acceptance for at least simple VTI anisotropic media. Slightly more complex anisotropic media are now gradually being used, they are commonly referred to as TTI. TTI stands for Tilted Transverse Isotropy and it characterizes a medium exhibiting polar anisotropy around an arbitrary tilt axis (polar axis). The polar anisotropy, with respect to the tilt axis, is entirely determined as a function of the polar velocity (velocity along the pole axis) and the well-known Thomsen parameters e and δ (Thomsen, 1986). As it proves next to impossible to determine, from surface seismic alone, the exact and spatially varying orientation of the polar axis of such TTI media, a simplifying assumption is usually made that the polar axis of the TTI medium coincides with the dip field of the reflecting subsurface structure. We will henceforth in our study referred to this special TTI medium as a Structurally Conformable TTI, or STI, medium. In such an STI medium seismic propagation can be fully described with the same parameters as for polar anisotropy with the addition of a reflector dip field. A potential problem with STI media is that the reflector dip field has to be extracted from a seismic image, which must be produced using a nonSTI/TTI velocity model. Our paper therefore seeks to answer the question: what is the best velocity model that can be used to compute the structural dip field for an ensuing TTI (STI) anisotropic depth migration? To answer this question we use a simple numerical modeling and

Appropriate treatment of irreparable rotator cuff tears in patients without osteoarthritic shoulder joints remains a subject of debate. Medical treatment, a substitution muscle flap, and palliative arthroscopic treatment have been proposed. Arthroscopic tenotomy of the long head of the biceps brachii is warranted because this tendon is often the cause of part or all of the pain. If there is a full thickness tear of the rotator cuff, the exposed tendon of the long head of the biceps brachii can, because of its anterosuperior position, become impinged against the acromial vault during forward flexion. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the mid-term clinical and radiological results of arthroscopic tenotomy of the long head of the biceps brachii during treatment of full thickness tears of the rotator cuff.The series included 40 shoulders operated on for tenotomy alone (n=32) or in combination with acromioplasty (n=8). The long head of the biceps brachii was in place in 23 shoulders (58%), displaced in seven and subluxed in five. The position was not determined in five. At last follow-up, the mean rough Constant score was 58 points, giving a gain of 20 points. The gain for pain was +7.1 points, +6.4 points for activity, and +6.6 points for motion. After the operation, muscle force for elbow flexion-supination was decreased 40% compared with an age-, sex- and dominance-matched control group. 86% of the patients were satisfied with the outcome and only two patients were disappointed by the asymmetry of arm muscle volume. Radiographically, at last follow-up there were no signs of superior excentration of the humeral head and the subacromial space, which measured 7.38 mm preoperatively was 7.19 mm postoperatively. Likewise only two shoulders progressed to excentered osteoarthritis at 41 and 72 months.Mid-term results of arthroscopic tenotomy of the long head of the biceps brachii are satisfactory. The technique is simple and has limited functional consequences. The procedure has an undeniable impact on pain and has allowed a 34 degree gain in anterior flexion of the shoulder. Complementary acromioplasty was not found to provide a supplementary benefit in this series. Nevertheless, the degradation of the result in one female patient at six years suggests we should be prudent concerning the long-term benefit of this procedure which should be reserved for irreparable tears in patients with minimal functional demands.

Nine cases of acquired metatarus elevatus or horizontalization of the first metatarsal with hallux flexus (dorsal bunion) were treated surgically associating: plantar wedge resection of the base of the first metatarsal or the first cuneiform; distal disinsertion of the long hallux flexor which was then positioned under the base of the first metatarsal and finally fixed on the distal dorsal segment of the metatarsophalangeal capsule; distal disinsertion of the anterior tibial tendon and tenodesis of the posterior tibial tendon. Weight bearing was allowed after pinning for one Month to position the axis of the first ray. Morphological results, recorded at 11 Years follow-up (mean) were satisfactory. There were no recurrent deformations and no residual instability of the first ray. The only observation was a minimal stiffness of the metatarsophalangeal joint with no tendency to degeneration.

Introduction Au cours de la neurofibromatose de type I (NF1), le prurit est rarement rapporte comme etant un signe clinique. Dans une seule etude, il a pourtant ete retrouve dans 20 % des cas. Nous presentons une etude precisant les caracteristiques de ce prurit. Patients et methodes Les patients inclus etaient vus au cours de consultations pluridisciplinaires dediees a la NF1 du CHU de Brest ou de l’hopital Henri-Mondor, ainsi que les membres de l’« Association Neurofibromatose Recklinghausen » contactes par e-mail. Un questionnaire, base celui de Yosipovitch (2001) et le 5D Itch Scale (2009) evaluant l’importance du prurit (score entre 7 et 25), a ete propose aux patients de plus de 18 ans, atteints de NF 1 avec prurit. Le NF1 score (correle au risque de tumeur maligne des gaines nerveuses) etait egalement evalue. Resultats Trente patients ont ete inclus (8 CHU de Brest, 2 CHU de Creteil, 20 ANR). Six patients ont ete exclus de l’etude en raison d’une dermatose sous-jacente pouvant expliquer le prurit. L’âge moyen des 24 patients etait de 46,8 ans (20 ans–75 ans). Le sex-ratio etait de 1/2. Le NF1 score moyen etait de 12,4. Dix-neuf patients (79,2 %) avaient un NF1 score Le 5D Itch Scale moyen etait de 13 (9–21). Il etait evalue a 13 chez les hommes et 12,9 femmes. Dans les groupes definis par l’âge, il etait de 13,2 chez les 50 ans. Le prurit etait localise en regard des neurofibromes chez 13 des 24 patients (54,2 %). Parmi les 5 patients âges de moins de 30 ans, 1 (20 %) se plaignait d’un prurit en regard des neurofibromes. 5 des 10 patients âges de 30 a 50 ans (50 %) presentaient un prurit en regard des neurofibromes, tandis que cela concernait 87,5 % des patients âges de plus de 50 ans (7 patients/8). Onze patients presentaient un prurit quotidien (45,8 %). Dix-neuf patients (79,2 %) avaient un prurit le soir, neuf la nuit (37,5 %). Treize patients (54,2 %) declaraient que le prurit etait aggrave par le stress. Discussion Il s’agit de la 1 re etude descriptive du prurit chez les patients adultes porteurs de NF1. Le prurit a jusque-la ete peu etudie au cours de la NF1. Notre etude suggere quelques specificites du prurit au cours de la NF1. Le prurit etait plutot modere (5D Itch Scale moyen a 13) dans notre etude, souvent quotidien (45,8 % des patients), avec une predominance vesperale (79,2 %). La moitie des patients rapporte un prurit en regard des neurofibromes, principalement chez les personnes âgees. Le role des mastocytes, plus nombreux dans les neurofibromes, a ete evoque dans la physiopathologie de ce prurit. Notre etude presente certaines limites : faible effectif, biais de selection des patients. Conclusion Nous rapportons la premiere etude sur le prurit au cours de la NF1. Ces premiers resultats devront faire l’objet d’etudes sur de plus grands effectifs.

A panel of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) has been generated against sea urchin sperm axonemes and selected for their ability to inhibit the motility of sea urchin sperm models. The mAb C9 recognized a 50 kDa protein on blots of sea urchin sperm axonemes. Two-dimensional sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed that C9 recognized isoforms of beta-tubulin. Low concentrations of C9 (0.1-1.0 microgram/ml) blocked the motility of sea urchin sperm models by decreasing the sliding velocity and frequency of flagellar beating to less than 1 Hz and by modifying the shear angle along the axoneme, especially the distal end. Other antitubulin antibodies had little effect on motility at concentrations 100-fold higher than those effective for C9. The effects on motility were not restricted to flagella of sea urchin spermatozoa. Flagellar beating of the dinoflagellate Oxyrrhis marina was completely blocked by C9 in a manner reminiscent of that of sea urchin sperm flagella. The mAb also inhibited the motility of human spermatozoa and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Immunofluorescence techniques revealed that C9 stains the whole axoneme of sea urchin spermatozoa and O. marina flagella together with the cortical network of O. marina cell body. C9 is the first antitubulin antibody reported to interfere with flagellar beat frequency. The observation that this antibody arrests the motility of flagella from sea urchin sperm along with that of dinoflagellate, algae, and human sperm flagella suggests that the epitope recognized by C9 is conserved over a long period of evolution and plays an important role in sperm motility.

In neuronal cells, microtubules are built from a very large number of alpha- and beta-tubulin variants. This diversity is due to the expression of a multigene family and to a combination of several original posttranslational modifications. Similarly, structural and motor microtubule-associated proteins, which regulate the assembly of microtubules, the modeling of their network and the mediation of their functions, are also very heterogeneous. As a consequence, mixing of these two protein polymorphisms leads to the formation of functionally-distinct microtubules. We have shown that polyglutamylation, the major posttranslational modification of neuronal tubulin, was used as a progressive regulator in the binding of structural and motor microtubule-associated proteins, in modulating gradually the conformation of the tubulin carboxy-terminal domain, playing thus a crucial role in microtubule dynamics.

The purpose of the paper is the characterization of the damping effect of a system called a link line, which is attached between electrical lines for safety purpose. A laboratory simplified representation of the system (Fig. 1) is constituted by two free-clamped beams, representing electrical lines, related by a real link line. The aeolian force, which generates the line vibrations in the real situation, is simply represented in the laboratory by a point force, delivered by an excitation device.