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Leïla Slimani explores, between 1945 and the present day, the destiny of a family divided between France and Morocco. Games of domination, the weight of inheritance, the place of women and questions of identity are at the heart of this virtuoso and ambitious trilogy. From one generation to the next, each of the characters struggles to find their place in a territory, a body or an imagination monopolized by others. Carried by vivid, precise writing and a powerful breath, the family fresco unfolds to touch on the universal and embrace resolutely contemporary themes.Leïla Slimani's novelistic work is published by Gallimard Editions and translated in many countries.To close this evening, a drink will be offered, allowing you to extend the discussions in a convivial atmosphere. More about GCN

Jury Prof. Benoît MUYLKENS (URVI, Université de Namur), PresidentProf. Carine MICHIELS (URBC, Université de Namur), SecretaryProf. Xavier DE BOLLE (URBC, Université de Namur)Prof. René REZSOHAZY (LIBST, Université catholique de Louvain)Prof. Florian STEINER (Dept. of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Université de Genève)Prof. Germano CECERE (Department of developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Institut Pasteur) Summary In animals, germ cells are often distinguished from somatic lineages at the earliest stages of embryogenesis. In some organisms, germ blastomeres appear to enter a state of transcriptional quiescence. For example, in the worm Caenorhabditis elegans, transcription is activated in somatic blastomeres as early as the 4-cell stage, whereas it is not initiated in germline blastomeres until the 100-cell stage. This transcriptional repression in germ blastomeres has been attributed to the PIE-1 protein, specifically localized in these cells from the first embryonic division. PIE-1 is thought to inhibit the activity of CDK-9, a cyclin-dependent kinase previously considered essential for the phosphorylation of serine 2 (CTD-Ser2) of the C-terminal domain (CTD) of RNA polymerase II and for transcription elongation. However, recent studies, showing that embryogenesis proceeds normally in a mutant strain expressing a CTD in which serines 2 is replaced by an alanine (CTD-S2A) and identifying CDK-12 as the main kinase phosphorylating CTD-Ser2, call this model into question.To study the transcriptome of germline blastomeres in the worm C. elegans, an approach combining cell sorting and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was developed. Pilot analyses validated this method on a wild-type strain, enabling its use on a strain in which PIE-1 can be specifically degraded using the Auxin-Inducible Degron (AID) system. This made it possible to examine the effect of PIE-1 depletion on the transcriptome of germline blastomeres revealing that in its absence, germline blastomeres adopt a transcriptional profile close to that of somatic blastomeres, confirming the fundamental role of PIE-1 in preserving germline identity during embryogenesis. In parallel, the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe was used to analyze the consequences of PIE-1 expression in a heterologous organism. The results showed that PIE-1 by localizing near transcription termination sites induces further transcription by RNA polymerase II beyond the termination site, leading to transcription of intergenic regions. These observations led to the hypothesis that in C. elegans,within germinal blastomeres, PIE-1 might regulate alternative polyadenylation in 3' untranslated regions, producing longer RNA isoforms susceptible to degradation. In the absence of PIE-1, shorter isoforms could be generated, allowing accumulation of somatic transcripts and potentially degradation of maternal mRNAs via somatic protein translation. Although further investigations are required in C. elegans to validate this hypothesis, it provides an innovative conceptual framework for understanding the role of PIE-1, independent of CTD-Ser2 phosphorylation.

Jury Prof. Marielle BOONEN (UNamur), presidentProf. Henri-François RENARD (UNamur), secretaryProf. Claire HIVROZ (PSL University)Prof. Michel GHISLAIN (UCLouvain)Prof. Pierre VAN DER BRUGGEN (UCLouvain)Prof. Ludger JOHANNES (PSL University)Prof. Pierre MORSOMME (UCLouvain) Summary Clathrin-independent endocytosis (CIE) mediates the cellular uptake of endogenous and exogenous cargoes, including bacterial toxins and viruses. Endophilin A3-mediated endocytosis is a specific CIE mechanism that differs from fast endophilin-mediated endocytosis (FEME), with ALCAM and L1CAM being the first confirmed Endophilin A3-specific cargoes. Here, we report ICAM1 as a new Endophilin A3-dependent endocytic cargo. ALCAM and ICAM1 are important components of immune synapses (IS), which are polarized structures formed between immune cells and target cells, such as cancer cells. These molecules transduce essential co-stimulatory signals to T cells to help their effective activation and proliferation. We find that both ALCAM and ICAM1 serve as cargoes for retromer-dependent retrograde transport to the trans-Golgi network (TGN) in cancer cells. Interestingly, disrupting Endophilin A3-mediated endocytosis or retromer-dependent retrograde transport machinery impairs activation of autologous cytotoxic CD8 T cells, possibly by affecting the polarized redistribution of immune synapse components at the plasma membrane. Altogether, our findings demonstrate that CIE and retrograde transport are key pathways in cancer cells that promote the activation of cytotoxic CD8 T cells.

Jury Prof. Yves CAUDANO (UNamur), chairmanProf. André FÜZFA (UNamur), secretaryProf. Dominique LAMBERT (UNamur)Dr. Jérémy REKIER (Observatoire royal de Belgique et UCLouvain)Prof. Dr. Félix FINSTER (Regensburg University) Summary Sounding the Universe with a relativistic solar sailboat or Einstein-Dirac fermionsThe Universe exerts a curiosity on man that is both undeniable and fundamental. To unravel the mysteries of the Cosmos, man is driven to develop two major investigative strategies: direct exploration by sending space probes, and indirect exploration by observing cosmic electromagnetic fields, gravitational waves or particles such as fermions.Following these two strategies, in this thesis we develop, in the first approach (consisting of sending a space probe), a relativistic kinematic and dynamical model of photonic sails (light sails) with arbitrary reflectivity and absorbance, moving in a non-rectilinear manner with the aim of exploring interstellar space. The problem is to determine the sail's trajectory in a Minkowski spacetime, a four-dimensional variety. From detailed calculations, we obtain the sail's universe line in the laser reference frame as a function of the sail's proper time.The second approach applies the Two-State Vector Formalism and weak measurements to a homogeneous, isotropic cosmological framework. By coupling Dirac spinners to classical gravity, we calculate weak values of the energy-impulse tensor, the Z component of spin and pure states. Extending the work of Finster and Hainzl on Einstein-Dirac cosmology, we show that the accelerated expansion of the Universe can be interpreted as a consequence of post-selection. We also demonstrate that weak measurements can amplify signals using simpler equipment, thanks to judicious selection of the initial and final state vectors. In addition, this procedure highlights certain geometric properties of the Cosmos' three-dimensional space, offering a new way of exploring the structure of the Universe.We also examine the mathematical structure on which the Dirac equation rests beyond the usual dimension and signature. This reveals a rich internal symmetry and gives rise to a particularly aesthetic diagrammatic representation. Abstract Probing the Universe with a Relativistic Light Sail or Einstein-Dirac FermionsHumanity's profound curiosity about the cosmos is both undeniable and fundamental. To demystify the Universe, humankind is compelled to develop both direct and indirect probing strategies: direct exploration through physical visits using probes, and indirect exploration by observing cosmic electromagnetic field, gravitational waves and particles such as fermions.Building on these two strategies, this thesis proposes two distinct approaches to probing the Universe. In the first approach, we present a relativistic kinematic and dynamic model of light sails with arbitrary reflectivity and absorptance, undergoing non-rectilinear motion as a method of interstellar exploration. The problem involves solving for the trajectory of the sail in a 4-dimensional Minkowski spacetime manifold. By detailed computation, we derive the worldline of the sail in the laser's frame in the sail's proper time.The second approach applies the Two-State Vector Formalism and weak measurements to a spatially homogeneous and isotropic cosmological framework. Coupling Dirac spinors with classical gravity, we compute weak values of the energy-momentum tensor, the Z-component of spin, and pure states. Extending the work of Finster and Hainzl on Einstein-Dirac cosmology, we demonstrate that the Universe's accelerated expansion can be interpreted as a consequence of post-selection. We also show that weak measurements can amplify signals with simpler equipment by carefully selecting initial and final state vectors. This process also reveals geometric properties of the spacelike three-manifold of the Cosmos, opening new way on probing the structure of the Universe.We explore also the mathematical framework underlying the Dirac equation beyond the standard dimension and signature. This enterprise reveals its symmetrically rich properties and aesthetic diagrammatic representation.

A Hackathon is a short event where teams reflect on a particular theme. They attempt to find solutions by developing innovative projects. At the end of the event, a jury determines which projects have caught their attention and thus won the competition. A CSLabs initiative The Computer Science Labs is a junior enterprise that grew out of the Faculty of Computer Science at the University of Namur. In practical terms, its actions revolve around carrying out projects, training members on IT-related topics and organizing events. Read more

This seminar is aimed at researchers as well as (future) childcare professionals - educators, carers, childcare workers - who wish to question this issue and equip themselves to better listen to and include young children. Thanks to an interdisciplinary, cross-border approach, experts from the fields of psychology, pedagogy, law and the human sciences will share their knowledge and experience. This time of exchange will provide a better understanding of how to foster children's information and participation by adapting to their abilities and needs. Registrations Read more

Program 5-6pm: Student read-aloud6-7:30pm: Lecture by Julia Kerninon7:30pm-9pm: DrinkConference and performance aimed at students but open to all, interns and externs. Free but reservation required (aurelie.sinte@unamur.be)

Why take part? This immersive week will highlight the importance of dignity through a series of engaging and inspiring activities. Whether you're a student, staff member or faculty member, you'll have the opportunity to discover and contribute to a university where every individual is valued and respected, and where diversity is seen as an invaluable asset.Key objectives:Promote a culture of dignity where everyone is respected, whatever their origins, beliefs or identities.To raise awareness of prevention of violence and forms of discrimination, while creating a safe framework for reporting.To foster the active involvement of the entire community in implementing this policy.By participating in , you will help build a more respectful, humane and inclusive campus, while paving the way for a society where dignity is a core value. Discover the full program here

Research seminar co-organized by Louis Carré and Sabina Tortorella as part of the activities of the Esphin Institute, the Department of Philosophy, and the Arcadie Center as well as the Marie Skłodowska-Curie SOCIAL project This seminar sets out to explore contemporary uses of Hegel's practical thought as well as to question its relevance and legacy. Themes central to recent philosophical debates, such as globalization, race, feminism and the Anthropocene, as well as contemporary challenges facing philosophical reflection - such as social justice and ecological transition, state sovereignty in the face of international markets and the emergence of supranational subjects, or the crisis of democracy in the face of the rise of populism and the return of war - may call for a mobilization of Hegelian thought. The aim of this seminar is not necessarily to propose a strictly historical-philosophical reading of Hegelian thought, but rather to seek to take Hegel beyond Hegel himself, by engaging in a reflection on problematics that find their first formulation in him, but that have developed far beyond his conceptual framework, or by questioning his concepts from perspectives that do not necessarily lay claim to Hegelianism. The aim of this approach is to bring Hegel's thought into dialogue with other philosophical traditions and currents of political philosophy, in order to question its ability to shed light on some of the major issues of our time. By questioning its topicality and limitations, this seminar aims to examine what practical Hegelian philosophy can still offer us today, and how it enables us to question our own problems from a renewed angle. While it is unlikely to provide ready-made solutions, it can perhaps help us to ask the right questions and think differently about the tensions of our time.Chiara Magni (Università degli Studi Roma Tre) will speak on the theme: "What rights for the accused and the convicted? Criminal prosecution and human dignity in the light of Hegel's practical philosophy"Link to attend the online seminar Contact: sabina.tortorella@unamur.beThis project has received funding from the European Union's Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant agreement No 101150961.

High-Sensitivity Birefringence Mapping Using Near-Circularly Polarized Light I will describe several techniques for mapping a two-dimensional birefringence distribution, which can be classified according to the optical schemes and principles of work:Illumination geometry (transmitted light/reflected light)Image acquisition (sequential acquisition/simultaneous acquisition)Polarization control (electrically controlled variable retardance/mechanical rotation).This classification facilitates a comparative analysis of the capabilities and limitations in these methods for birefringence characterization. Polychromatic polarizing microscopy (PPM) provides unique capabilities to alternative methods. It leverages vector interference to generate vivid, full-spectrum colors at extremely low retardances, down to < 10 nm. PPM is a significant departure from conventional polarizing microscopes that rely on Newton interference, which requires retardances above 400 nm for color formation. Furthermore, PPM's color output directly reflects the orientation of the birefringent material, a feature absent in conventional microscopy where color is solely determined by retardance.Joint seminar of ILEE & NISM!The seminar is open to external people too, no need to register. More info

Abstract Radiotherapy is a cornerstone of cancer treatment and is currently administered to approximately half of all cancer patients. However, the cytotoxic effects of ionizing radiation on normal tissues represent a major limitation, as they restrict the dose that can be safely delivered to patients and, consequently, reduce the likelihood of effective tumor control. In this context, delivering radiation at ultra-high dose rates (UHDR, > 40 Gy/s) is gaining increasing attention due to its potential to spare healthy tissues surrounding the tumor and to prevent radiation-induced side effects, as compared to conventional dose rates (CONV, on the order of Gy/min).The mechanism underlying this protective effect-termed the FLASH effect-remains elusive, driving intensive research to elucidate the biological processes triggered by this type of irradiation.In vitro models offer a valuable tool to support this research, allowing for the efficient screening of various beam parameters and biological responses in a time- and cost-effective manner. In this study, multicellular tumor spheroids and normal cells were exposed to proton irradiation at UHDR to evaluate its efficacy in controlling tumor growth and its cytotoxic impact on healthy tissues, respectively.We report that UHDR and CONV irradiation induced a comparable growth delay in 3D tumor spheroids, suggesting similar efficacy in tumor control. In normal cells, both dose rates induced similar levels of senescence; however, UHDR irradiation led to lower apoptosis induction at clinically relevant doses and early time points post-irradiation.Taken together, these findings further highlight the potential of UHDR irradiation to modulate the response of normal tissues while maintaining comparable tumor control.JuryProf. Thomas BALLIGAND (UNamur), PresidentProf. Stéphane LUCAS (UNamur), SecretaryProf. Carine MICHIELS (UNamur)Dr Sébastien PENNINCKX (Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles)Prof. Cristian FERNANDEZ (University of Bern)Dr Rudi LABARBE (IBA)

Abstract This work demonstrates that polymer-coated gold nanoparticles can function not only as radiosensitizers but also as agents for macrophage reprogramming. Specifically, we show that these nanoparticles can repolarize tumor-associated macrophages from the immunosuppressive M2 phenotype to the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype-a process further enhanced by clinically relevant doses of X-ray radiation. Among the four nanoparticle formulations tested, 50 nm PVP-coated gold nanoparticles were particularly effective in promoting macrophage repolarization and reducing pancreatic cancer cell viability in co-culture, both with and without radiation. These findings highlight a promising strategy to enhance the efficacy of cancer radiotherapy. Jury Prof. Julien COLAUX (UNamur), ChairmanProf. Anne-Catherine HEUSKIN (UNamur), SecretaryProf. Carine MICHIELS (UNamur)Prof. Henri-François RENARD (UNamur)Prof. Michel MOUTSCHEN (ULiège)Dr Dimitri STANICKI (UMons)Prof. Devika CHITHRANI (University of Victoria)