Développement de boissons fonctionnelles fermentées répondant aux besoins du consommateur

Ce projet de recherche est axé sur la formulation et l’étude d’un panel de boissons fonctionnelles de types kombucha. Il intègre la dimension sociale par la prise en considération des besoins et préférences du consommateur en termes de boissonsalternatives thérapeutiques. En effet, par la caractérisation physico chimique des boissons fonctionnelles, les thématiques liées au bien être physique et mental peuvent être considérées. L’étude des cinétiques de composants majoritaires synthétisés par le consortium microbien présent dans le milieu fermentaire mais également celle des arômes développés au cours de la fermentation permet le monitoring de la fermentation et de moduler les flaveurs finales des boissons en fonction du substrat utilisé et des paramètres de fermentation. À l’aube d’une transition alimentaire encourageant sans cesse la consommation d’aliments fonctionnels sains et durables, cette étude assure ainsi la proposition d’un panel de boissons naturelles et soucieuses de la santé du consommateur

Prolactin induces apoptosis of lactotropes in female rodents

Anterior pituitary cell turnover occurring during female sexual cycle is a poorly understood process that involves complex regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis by multiple hormones. In rats, the prolactin (PRL) surge that occurs at proestrus coincides with the highest apoptotic rate. Since anterior pituitary cells express the prolactin receptor (PRLR), we aimed to address the actual role of PRL in the regulation of pituitary cell turnover in cycling females. We showed that acute hyperprolactinemia induced in ovariectomized rats using PRL injection or dopamine antagonist treatment rapidly increased apoptosis and decreased proliferation specifically of PRL producing cells (lactotropes), suggesting a direct regulation of these cell responses by PRL. To demonstrate that apoptosis naturally occurring at proestrus was regulated by transient elevation of endogenous PRL levels, we used PRLR-deficient female mice (PRLRKO) in which PRL signaling is totally abolished. According to our hypothesis, no increase in lactotrope apoptotic rate was observed at proestrus, which likely contributes to pituitary tumorigenesis observed in these animals. To decipher the molecular mechanisms underlying PRL effects, we explored the isoform-specific pattern of PRLR expression in cycling wild type females. This analysis revealed dramatic changes of long versus short PRLR ratio during the estrous cycle, which is particularly relevant since these isoforms exhibit distinct signaling properties. This pattern was markedly altered in a model of chronic PRLR signaling blockade involving transgenic mice expressing a pure PRLR antagonist (TGΔ1–9-G129R-hPRL), providing evidence that PRL regulates the expression of its own receptor in an isoform-specific manner. Taken together, these results demonstrate that i) the PRL surge occurring during proestrus is a major proapoptotic signal for lactotropes, and ii) partial or total deficiencies in PRLR signaling in the anterior pituitary may result in pituitary hyperplasia and eventual prolactinoma development, as observed in TGΔ1–9-G129R-hPRL and PRLRKO mice, respectively.Fil: Ferraris, Maria Jimena. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Houssay. Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas; Argentina; Argentina. Universidad de Buenos Aires; ArgentinaFil: Zarate, Sandra Cristina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Houssay. Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas; Argentina; Argentina. Universidad de Buenos Aires; ArgentinaFil: Jaita, Gabriela Alejandra. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Houssay. Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas; Argentina; Argentina. Universidad de Buenos Aires; ArgentinaFil: Boutillon, Florencia. Universite Paris Sud; FranciaFil: Bernadet, Marie. Universite Paris Descartes; FranciaFil: Auffret, Julien. Universite Paris Sud; FranciaFil: Seilicovich, Adriana. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Houssay. Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas; Argentina; Argentina. Universidad de Buenos Aires; ArgentinaFil: Binart, Nadine. Universite Paris Sud; FranciaFil: Goffin, Vincent. Universite Paris Descartes; FranciaFil: Pisera, Daniel Alberto. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Houssay. Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas; Argentina; Argentina. Universidad de Buenos Aires; Argentin

Study and development of a functional fermented drink based on Sobacha: A Japanese infusion of roasted buckwheat seeds

peer reviewedNowadays, consumer’s demand for the development of functional foods on the market, i.e., satisfying hunger and nutrient intake, but also preventing chronic diseases and improving physical and mental health, is constantly increasing. At the dawn of a food transition encouraging the consumption of healthy and sustainable non-dairy probiotic products, the development of a functional drink based on Sobacha is considered. This cereal matrix is an infusion of roasted buckwheat seeds widely consumed in Asian countries for its health benefits. Resulting from a Japanese expertise of buckwheat roasting, the matrix presents anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Moreover, kombucha has gained immense popularity in recent years due to its many health benefits. As fermentation improve the nutritional and organoleptic status of grain products, the mixed fermentation process involved in the development of Hakko Sobacha is conducted by inoculating a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeasts into the cereal matrix. Considering the beverage characterization, the kinetics of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were determined using stir bar sorptive extraction—gas chromatography—mass spectrometry. Odor-active compounds were theoretically calculated to estimate consumer perception. Finally, sensory analyses highlighted the appreciation and preferences of the consumer towards the beverages. The fermentative yield differences observed between the two buckwheat concentration modalities are due to the number of sugars available for fermentation but also to the nutrients available from the complex sugars of the starch matrix. The study of volatile organic compounds shows the analysis of production kinetics of potentially aromatic compounds such as esters, aldehydes, ketones, terpenes, ... from carboxylic acids and alcohols. The synthesis of these aromas evolves during fermentation, reflecting the activity of microorganisms to use multiple fermentative pathways in search of an optimal environment for their development. Consumers appreciate the beverage with the highest buckwheat concentration for its fruity (citrus), green, creamy, and spicy (from esters, ketones, and phenols) aromas, as well as for its acidity, predominant roasted hazelnut aroma (from pyrazines of sobacha). Opposite consumers appreciate the drink less concentrated in buckwheat for its sour, floral, grilled, fruity (melon), green notes (from carboxylic acids, esters, and alcohols mainly) but also for its color, freshness, and sparkle. As this study allowed to characterize Hakko Sobacha, an insight for the development of new drinks by controlling the fermentation process was suggested. Such a methodology should allow a better control and optimization of their sensory profile, which could in turn lead to greater consumer acceptance.Win4Excellence MICROBoos

Human chorionic gonadotropin and growth factors at the embryonic-endometrial interface control leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) secretion by human endometrial epithelium

peer reviewedBACKGROUND: The elucidation of the molecular mechanisms by which the embryo contributes to its implantation is an area of extensive research. The main objective of this study was to investigate the pattern of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) secretion by human endometrial epithelium, and their regulation by human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and other growth factors present at the embryonic-endometrial interface. METHODS: Endometrial epithelial cells (EEC) were isolated from biopsies collected at both proliferative and secretory phases of fertile women. RESULTS: HCG (1-50 IU/ml) increased LIF secretion by EEC cultures derived from follicular phase (up to 285+/-75%) or from secretory phase (up to 212+/-16%). In contrast, hCG reduced IL-6 secretion by EEC in both phases. The hCG/LH receptor gene was transcribed by EEC as evidenced by RT-PCR. Insulin-like growth factors 1 and 2 increased LIF secretion by EEC. Transforming growth factor beta1 stimulated LIF and reduced IL-6 secretion. CONCLUSIONS: Through hCG, the blastocyst may be involved in the control of its implantation (via an increase of proimplantatory LIF) and tolerance (via an inhibition of proinflammatory IL-6). Other growth factors present at the embryonic-endometrial interface are also involved in the control of LIF and IL-6 endometrial secretion

Characterization of Aroma Active Compound Production during Kombucha Fermentation: Towards the Control of Sensory Profiles

peer reviewedSince the sensorial profile is the cornerstone for the development of kombucha as a beverage with mass market appeal, advanced analytical tools are needed to gain a better understanding of the kinetics of aromatic compounds during the fermentation process to control the sensory profiles of the drink. The kinetics of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) was determined using stir bar sorptive extraction—gas chromatography—mass spectrometry, and odor-active compounds were considered to estimate consumer perception. A total of 87 VOCs were detected in kombucha during the fermentation stages. The synthesis of mainly phenethyl alcohol and isoamyl alcohol probably by Saccharomyces genus led to ester formation. Moreover, the terpene synthesis occurring at the beginning of fermentation (∆-3-carene, α-phellandrene, γ-terpinene, m- and p-cymene) could be related to yeast activity as well. Principal component analysis identified classes that allowed the major variability explanation, which are carboxylic acids, alcohols, and terpenes. The aromatic analysis accounted for 17 aroma-active compounds. These changes in the evolution of VOCs led to flavor variations: from citrus-floral-sweet notes (geraniol and linalool domination), and fermentation brought intense citrusherbal-lavender-bergamot notes (α-farnesene). Finally, sweet-floral-bready-honey notes dominated the kombucha flavor (2-phenylethanol). As this study allowed to estimate kombucha sensory profiles, an insight for the development of new drinks by controlling the fermentation process was suggested. Such a methodology should allow a better control and optimization of their sensory profile, which could in turn lead to greater consumer acceptance

17 High-risk metastatic post-molar neoplasia complicating twin pregnancy with complete mole and coexisting fetus. Case report and review of the literature.

peer reviewe

From polyester grafting onto POSS nanocage by ring-opening polymerization to high performance polyester/POSS nanocomposites

peer reviewedPolyester-grafted polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) nanohybrids selectively produced by ring-opening polymerization of e-caprolactone and L,L-lactide (A.-L. Goffin, E. Duquesne, S. Moins, M. Alexandre, Ph. Dubois, Eur. Polym. Journal, 2007, 43, 4103) were studied as 'masterbatches' by melt-blending within their corresponding commercial polymeric matrices, i.e., poly(e-caprolactone) (PCL) and poly(L,L-lactide) (PLA). For the sake of comparison, neat POSS nanoparticles were also dispersed in PCL and PLA. The objective was to prepare aliphatic polyester-based nanocomposites with enhanced crystallization behavior, and therefore, enhanced thermo-mechanical properties. Wide-angle X-ray scattering and transmission electron microscopy attested for the dispersion of individualized POSS nanoparticles in the resulting nanocomposite materials only when the polyester-grafted POSS nanohybrid was used as a masterbatch. The large impact of such finely dispersed (grafted) nanoparticles on the crystallization behavior for the corresponding polyester matrices was noticed, as evidenced by differential scanning calorimetry analysis. Indeed, well-dispersed POSS nanoparticles acted as efficient nucleating sites, significantly increasing the crystallinity degree of both PCL and PLA matrices. As a result, a positive impact on thermo-mechanical properties was highlighted by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis

Age-adapted percentiles of measured glomerular filtration in healthy individuals:extrapolation to living kidney donors over 65 years

OBJECTIVES: Most data on glomerular filtration rate (GFR) originate from subjects <65 years old, complicating decision-making in elderly living kidney donors. In this retrospective multi-center study, we calculated percentiles of measured GFR (mGFR) in donors <65 years old and extrapolated these to donors ≥65 years old. METHODS: mGFR percentiles were calculated from a development cohort of French/Belgian living kidney donors <65 years (n=1,983), using quantiles modeled as cubic splines (two linear parts joining at 40 years). Percentiles were extrapolated and validated in an internal cohort of donors ≥65 years (n=147, France) and external cohort of donors and healthy subjects ≥65 years (n=329, Germany, Sweden, Norway, France, The Netherlands) by calculating percentages within the extrapolated 5th-95th percentile (P5-P95). RESULTS: Individuals in the development cohort had a higher mGFR (99.9 ± 16.4 vs. 86.4 ± 14 and 82.7 ± 15.5 mL/min/1.73 m(2)) compared to the individuals in the validation cohorts. In the internal validation cohort, none (0%) had mGFR below the extrapolated P5, 12 (8.2%) above P95 and 135 (91.8%) between P5-P95. In the external validation cohort, five subjects had mGFR below the extrapolated P5 (1.5%), 25 above P95 (7.6%) and 299 (90.9%) between P5-P95. CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrate that extrapolation of mGFR from younger donors is possible and might aid with decision-making in elderly donors

Expertise - Quelles perspectives pour les territoires wallons dans l'ère post-covid? (E.1)

Dans sa DPR 2019-2024, le Gouvernement wallon affiche sa volonté de faire de la Wallonie une terre de transition écologique sociale, économique et démocratique. Cette transition doit ainsi permettre d’aboutir à un nouveau modèle de société dans lequel les Wallonnes et les Wallons vivent mieux et plus heureux. Cette problématique des transitions fait également partie des priorités européennes comme le Green Deal qui dresse notamment les orientations à conduire pour faire face aux changements climatiques. À l’autre bout de l’échelle, l’évolution des comportements des acteurs, tant au niveau des citoyens qu’au niveau des entreprises, et la numérisation croissante de la société impactent toujours davantage les modes de vie et différents projets concrets se mettent en place. La convergence entre les mutations sectorielles apparait comme un élément critique de réussite des transitions. Or le développement territorial peut jouer un rôle majeur pour favoriser ces convergences. Néanmoins, l’apparition en début d’année 2020 d’une crise sanitaire face à laquelle nous luttons toujours aujourd’hui agit comme un catalyseur des mutations sociétales et amplifie les défis socio-économiques et territoriaux. Des évolutions radicales sont déjà perceptibles, telles que la désertion des centres villes et des commerces de détail, et une forte expansion de la demande pour les immeubles de toute nature en milieu rural et péri-urbain « vert ». L’ampleur de la crise attendue est telle que les territoires pourraient être fortement impactés et déstructurés. Un diagnostic pluridisciplinaire sera effectué (janvier-février 2021), mobilisant les compétences économiques, sociales et environnementales disponibles, et les acteurs représentatifs. Sur base de celui-ci, des perspectives d’actions et de mise en place de dispositifs correctifs seront dégagés au travers de trois séminaires à tenir avant fin juin 2021, sur trois thèmes : - Quelles perspectives pour l’attractivité des centres-villes et leurs activités commerciales ? - Quelles tendances observées et attendues sur les marchés foncier et immobilier (principalement à vocation résidentielle) ? - Quelles évolutions en matière de répartition modale, notamment en regard de la vision FAST et de la progression du télétravail

Oncological patients' reactions to COVID-19 pandemic: A single institution prospective study.

peer reviewedBACKGROUND: The spread of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a rapid reorganization in all human and hospital activities, with impact on cancer patients. AIM: An analysis of cancer patients fears, and awareness of COVID-19 has been done in this study. METHODS AND RESULTS: We analyzed cancer patients' reactions to the pandemic and their perception of oncological care reorganization, through a 12-item survey, proposed at the peak of pandemic and 3 months later. Overall, 237 patients were included in the study. During the peak of pandemic 34.6% of patients were more worried about COVID-19 than cancer versus 26.4% in the post-acute phase (p = .013). Although 49.8% of patients in the acute phase and 42.3% in the post-acute phase considered their risk of death if infected ≥50%, and more than 70% of patients thought to be at higher risk of complications, the majority of them did not consider the possibility to stop or delay their treatment. Patients were more interested in following news about COVID-19 than cancer and they complied with all preventive measures in more than 90% of the cases. CONCLUSIONS: Although cancer patients worried about COVID-19 and evaluated the risk of complication or death due to COVID-19 as extremely high, they were still asking for the best oncological treatment