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Regulatory mechanisms of ER body formation and its function in Brassicaceae plants
No full textInternational audienceEndoplasmic reticulum (ER) bodies are unique ER subdomains with a spindle-shaped structure in Brassicaceae, Cleomaceae, and Capparaceae plants, and they accumulate high levels of β-glucosidases (BGLUs). ER body-localized BGLUs are crucial for the hydrolysis of glucosinolates that are responsible for the chemical defense. In Arabidopsis thaliana, ER body-deficient mutants are vulnerable to non-herbivorous arthropods and non-pathogenic fungi, and display altered root microbiota assembly. ER bodies are predominantly observed in seedlings and roots, as well as in the epidermal cells above leaf midveins and margins. ARABIDOPSIS THALIANA MERISTEM LAYER1 (ATML1) transcription factor controls ER body accumulation in leaves through the activation of the NAI1 transcription factor, which upregulates the expression of ER body-related genes. ER bodies are further induced by wounding, indicating that their accumulation is also controlled in response to environmental signals. Jasmonate plays a key role in regulating ER body induction through CORONATINE INSENSITIVE1 (COI1), and the transcription factors MYC2, MYC3, and MYC4, which further control the expression of MYB47 and MYB95, key regulators of ER body-related genes. The conservation of orthologous and paralogous genes among ER body-related genes is observed in Brassicaceae plant genomes, indicating the conservation of ER body accumulation mechanisms among Brassicaceae species
Comparison of different strategies based on β-casein dynamics to encapsulate curcumin in casein micelles
No full textInternational audienceCasein micelles (CM) are colloidal phospho-protein-mineral complexes naturally present in milk. Cooling inducesβ-casein dissociation from CM. The aim of the present research is to improve curcumin encapsulation in β-casein depleted CM. This study proposes an extraction and separation process including cooling, low acidification (pH 5.8) and membrane filtration at a pilot scale allowing a removal of 45 ±5 % of β-casein fraction from CM.Special care was taken to preserve the CM integrity. Investigation of the depleted CM topography by atomic force microscopy (AFM) reveals a swelling of the micellar structure with a mean width of 193 ±10 nm and a mean height of 80 ±5 nm. Concurrently, exploration of the elastic properties displays a stiffer nanomechanicalsignature compared to native CM, with a mean elasticity modulus of 195 ±17 kPa. The β-caseins extracted from CM were bound to curcumin prior to their encapsulation in depleted CM. This new encapsulation strategy was compared to two other methods, and the results show that it significantly increases the binding efficiency of curcumin to CM
Digging deeper: deep joint species distribution modeling reveals environmental drivers of Earthworm Communities
No full textInternational audienceEarthworms are key drivers of soil function, influencing organic matter turnover, nutrient cycling, and soil structure. Understanding the environmental controls on their distribution is essential for predicting the impacts of land use and climate change on soil ecosystems. While local studies have identified abiotic drivers of earthworm communities, broad-scale spatial patterns remain underexplored. We developed a multi-species, multi-task deep learning model to jointly predict the distribution of 77 earthworm species across metropolitan France, using historical (1960–1970) and contemporary (1990–2020) records. The model integrates climate, soil, and land cover variables to estimate habitat suitability. We applied SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) to identify key environmental drivers and used species clustering to reveal ecological response groups. The joint model achieved high predictive performance (TSS >0.7) and improved predictions for rare species compared to traditional species distribution models. Shared feature extraction across species allowed for more robust identification of common and contrasting environmental responses. Precipitation variability, temperature seasonality, and land cover emerged as dominant predictors of earthworm distribution but differed in ranking across species and functional groups. Species clustering into response groups to climatic, land use and soil revealed distinct ecological strategies including a gradient of sensitivity to precipitation seasonality, differential habitat preferences in terms of vegetation cover and wetness and trade-offs between soil acidity and organic matter quality. Our study advances both the methodological and ecological understanding of soil biodiversity. We demonstrate the utility of interpretable deep learning approaches for large-scale soil fauna modeling and provide new insights into earthworm habitat specialization. These findings highlight land cover and seasonal climate variability as efficient proxies for soil biodiversity, providing actionable indicators for global monitoring initiatives and helping to identify habitat requirements of earthworm species to guide emerging earthworm conservation strategies in the face of global environmental change
A narrative review of the impact of anthropogenic light and noise on owls
No full textInternational audienceToday, owls are exposed to increasingly brightly lit nights and noisy environments because of human activities. To understand the impacts of artificial light at night (ALAN) and anthropogenic noise we performed an evidence synthesis. We searched four literature databases and Google Scholar and we collected 39 relevant articles (1945-2024) providing 125 cases (64 on light pollution and 61 on noise pollution), targeting 25 species (c. 10% of owl species). We found harmful effects of both sensory pollutants on several outcomes. First, ALAN tends to reduce acoustic communication and to be associated with a lower occurrence of owl species, although it is difficult to confirm whether ALAN leads to silent or absent owls. Moreover, ALAN disturbs owl-prey interactions. Although light probably improves owl vision, the light-avoidance behaviour of small mammals could result in poorer hunting success of owls feeding on mammals. Conversely, ALAN enhances food provisioning and even breeding of owls feeding on insects that are attracted by light, to the detriment of these prey populations. Second, human-induced noise clearly tends to reduce owl vocalization, yet that vocalization may be essential to communication between individuals. The ability of owls to detect prey (hunting success) is also reduced under noise exposure (even at low amplitude), probably as the result of masking and distraction. Studies also demonstrate that anthropogenic noise can cause physiological and behavioural stress and disturbance to owls. Such adverse effects may contribute to declines in reproduction and occurrence of owls observed in noisy areas. As a result, we recommend reduction of both sensory stressors as much as possible, for owls and for ecosystem stability, for example by maintaining and restoring quiet and dark areas. We also recommend more consideration of owls in sensory ecology research to fill knowledge gaps.De nos jours, les rapaces nocturnes sont exposés à des nuits de plus en plus lumineuses et à un environnement de plus en plus bruyant en raison des activités humaines. Pour comprendre l'impact potentiel de la lumière artificielle nocturne et du bruit anthropique, nous avons réalisé une revue de littérature. Nous avons interrogé 4 bases de données bibliographiques et Google scholar et nous avons collecté 39 articles pertinents (1945–2024) fournissant respectivement 125 cas (64 sur la pollution lumineuse et 61 sur la pollution sonore), ciblant en tout 25 espèces (~10% des Strigiformes ). Nous avons trouvé plusieurs effets néfastes des pollutions lumineuse et sonore. Tout d'abord, la lumière artificielle tend à diminuer la communication acoustique et est associée à une occurrence plus faible, bien qu'il soit difficile de confirmer si les chouettes sont plus silencieuses ou absentes. Il est indéniable que l'éclairage nocturne perturbe les interactions entre les rapaces nocturnes et leurs proies, ce qui peut expliquer en partie cette situation pour les espèces qui se nourrissent de rongeurs, selon les effets documentés de la luminosité de la lune: alors que la lumière améliore la vision des chouettes/hiboux, le comportement d'évitement de la lumière des petits mammifères pourrait entraîner un moins bon succès de chasse. Inversement, l'éclairage artificiel améliore l'approvisionnement en nourriture et même la reproduction des chouettes insectivores, probablement au détriment des populations de proies attirées par la lumière. Deuxièmement, les sons artificiels tendent clairement à diminuer la vocalisation des chouettes, pourtant essentielle à la communication (par exemple entre partenaires). La capacité des Strigiformes à détecter leurs proies (succès de chasse) est également réduite en cas d'exposition au bruit (même à faible amplitude), sûrement par un effet de masquage et de distraction. Les données démontrent également que le bruit anthropique provoque du stress et des perturbations, tant au niveau physiologique que comportemental. Ces effets négatifs peuvent être responsables de la tendance à la baisse de la reproduction et de l'occurrence des rapaces nocturnes qui est également observée dans les zones bruyantes. Par conséquent, nous recommandons de réduire autant que possible les deux facteurs de stress sensoriel—pour les chouettes/hiboux et pour la stabilité des écosystèmes—par exemple en maintenant et en rétablissant des zones calmes et sombres. Nous demandons également que les Strigiformes soient davantage pris en compte dans la recherche en écologie sensorielle afin de combler les lacunes en matière de connaissances
Optimal structures of crop irrigation strategies with state constraints
No full textInternational audienceWe investigate an optimal control problem of crop irrigation with non-autonomous and non-smooth dynamics. Depending on contexts and objectives, several formulations associated to different constraints and criteria can be derived. Our work aims at providing optimal feedback solutions for these problems by deriving and analyzing the optimality necessary conditions. To this end, we assemble the different problems into a common formulation, and we carry out a dedicated way of handling state constraints. We show that all optimal irrigation strategies belong to a family of simple parameterized time-varying feedback controls, independently of the context and objective, and suitable for computational purposes
2D numerical model for gas mass transfers in modified atmosphere packaging systems
No full textInternational audienceThe complexity of some food-packaging systems requires mathematical models of mass transfers to accurately predict the evolution of headspace gas composition during storage and better anticipate food shelf-life. In this study, a numerical 2D model of O 2 /CO 2 transfer in a cheese packaging system was proposed. The results showed significant involvement of gas sorption/desorption in food and permeation through the tray in evolution of gases in headspace. In this context, only a 2D model provided a good fit to experimental results, as gas permeation at the food/tray interface was non-negligible, limiting 1D approaches. This validated 2D model was then used in a global sensitivity analysis employing the Morris method to quantitatively identify the most influential mass transfer parameters affecting prediction accuracy. The results revealed a significant impact of O 2 and CO 2 permeability of the tray and their activation energies, as well as O 2 and CO 2 solubility and diffusivities in food. Therefore, to obtain a robust model of a food packaging system, it is recommended to integrate gas transfers between food and tray when the food-tray interface area is significant (2D model) and to precisely evaluate the gas permeability of the tray. These transfers can be neglected when this interface area is minimal (1D model).</div
Camel meat composition by species, breeds, publication year, age, and breeding system: A global systematic review and meta-analysis
No full textInternational audienceCamel meat is increasingly being recognized as a sustainable and nutritious red meat source, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas where camels are thriving. However, its chemical composition and sensory attributes vary significantly owing to genetic, management, and environmental factors. This study conducted a systematic re-view and a meta-analysis to quantify the nutritional and sensory properties of camel meat and identify the key factors influencing these characteristics. A systematic review of peer-reviewed studies was conducted using Springer, PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and ScienceDirect databases. This review comprised 57 papers publishedin English from 12 countries, covering the period between January 1991 and August 2024, including 377 analyses focusing on camel species, breeds, and breeding systems. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the effect sizes, heterogeneity, and impact of the moderating factors. The findings from our meta-regression andsubgroup analyses revealed that variations in camel meat profiles are influenced by multiple factors, including breeding system, camel species, breeds, and age, but not by sex. Subgroup analysis revealed that higher final body weight (FBW) was reported for meat from Camelus bactrianus camels raised under the extensive system.Camels slaughtered at ≤6 years of age were characterized by higher dry matter, ash, and fat contents, but lower sarcomere length, lightness, redness, and cobalt content. The Najdi, Baladi Saudi, and Pakistani breeds were characterized as tender meat breeds. This study emphasizes the need for improved breeding strategies, meatprocessing techniques, and market awareness to enhance the appeal of camel meat. These findings provide valuable insights for livestock producers, policymakers, and the food industry, supporting the promotion of camel meat as a viable substitute for traditional red meat in regions affected by climate change and food insecurity
Quel avenir pour les politiques publiques en faveur de la démocratie alimentaire ?
No full textConclusionNational audienc
Flash vacuum expansion technology for small-scale production of fruit puree: development and quality assessment
No full textInternational audienceFruit processing at small scale often lacks access to efficient, integrated technologies capable of ensuring product quality and safety. Flash Vacuum Expansion emerges as a promising alternative to conventional thermal treatments by coupling rapid steam heating with instant decompression, enabling simultaneous pasteurization and cooling, tissue disintegration, and deaeration. This study presents the design, construction, and validation of an optimized Flash Vacuum Expansion prototype tailored for small- and medium-scale agroindustries. The system integrates six unit operations—blanching, pasteurization, mashing, cooling, deaeration, and pulping—of which the last four are conducted under vacuum conditions. Heating is achieved through a screw conveyor blancher equipped with direct steam injection, while the vacuum operations are synchronized using double-valve airlocks. Performance was assessed using açai and Andean blackberry, evaluating microbial inactivation, physicochemical and rheological properties, and energy efficiency. FVE-treated purees showed complete microbial inactivation (<10 CFU/g), significant increases in pulp yield and extraction efficiency, reduced insoluble solids, enhanced pigment release, and superior rheological consistency. Energy consumption analysis revealed specific energy consumption (SEC) values as low as 0.97 MJ/kg—markedly lower than conventional processing benchmarks. The proposed FVE system represents a scalable and energy-efficient solution for producing high-quality fruit purees
Ten assertions on einkorn from a participatory living-lab: right or false?
No full textInternational audienceHighlights: • French farmers grow very few varieties of einkorn, whereas there is a huge diversity in the einkorn species! • Einkorn yield is very few mentioned as a criterion farmers are interested in. • Einkorn may be adapted to a large range of environments but the current varieties are not well adapted to agroforestry. • Einkorn is not adapted to celiac patients and seems no more digestible than durum wheat with in vitro experiments. • Einkorn, considered a minor cereal, is of major economic interest.Abstract: A participatory living-lab, implemented in Occitania region (south of France), is clustering farmers, processors, chefs, researchers, teachers, students and citizens, interested by einkorn (Triticum monococcum subsp. monococcum). During meetings, field days, open laboratories days, farms or mills visits, several assertions were collected and the ten most commonly cited were selected. For each assertion, experiments were set up and the results were compared with the scientific literature in order to discuss, confirm or refute them. We concluded by right or false for each assertion: “French farmers grow very few varieties of einkorn”: right, “There is no genetic diversity in the einkorn species”: false, “Yield is the only trait farmers are interested in”: false, “The einkorn is only adapted to very specific environmental conditions”: false, ““IGP haute Provence” is the best adapted to our Living Lab cropping conditions”: false, “Einkorn is not adapted to agroforestry”: right, with the current varieties, “Einkorn is of great benefit to celiac patients”: false, “Einkorn is more digestible than durum wheat”: false, ““IGP Haute Provence” is the variety of einkorn that makes the best pasta”: false, “Einkorn is less profitable than wheat because of its low yield”: false . The participatory einkorn breeding program being implemented will allow to meet the constraints and requirements of all stakeholders