Distribution and Sensory Impact of (2E,4E,6Z)-nonatrienal and Trans-4,5-epoxy-(E)-2-decenal in Wines and Spirits

This study reports the distribution of (2E,4E,6Z)-nonatrienal (1) and trans-4,5-epoxy-(E)-2-decenal (2) in wines and spirits. We validated a quantification method using solid-phase extraction (SPE) and negative chemical ionization (NCI, NH3) gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Both were identified for the first time in wines and spirits from different grape varieties and raw materials. Their olfactory detection thresholds (ODTs) were 16 and 60 ng/L, respectively. Analysis of 66 wines showed that the highest levels of (1) (441.3 ng/L) and (2) (386.5 ng/L) were found in red and white wines, respectively. At these levels, they modify the balance of the fruity expression of red (fresh to cooked fruits) and white (vegetal/green hazelnut nuance) wines. Similar quantitative and sensory analyses were conducted in spirits. With ODT estimated at 500 and 400 ng/L and concentrations ranging from trace amounts to 1.1 and 2.4 μg/L respectively, (1) and (2) can contribute directly to the aroma of spirits.

Identification and Distribution of New Impact Aldehydes in Toasted Oak Wood (Quercus petraea)

The purpose of this study was to identify aroma compounds associated with the toasting intensity of oak wood (Quercus petraea). Crude organic extracts from oak wood samples (toasted at different temperature-time couples) were analyzed by a sensory-guided approach using GC-O-TOFMS, followed by purification with semipreparative HPLC (reverse phase). This approach revealed two specific odorous zones (OZs) reminiscent of metal and puff pastry. The first OZ was identified as trans-4,5-epoxy-(E)-2-decenal (1) by coinjection of the commercial product, whereas identification of (2E,4E,6Z)-nonatrienal (2) associated with puff pastry OZ was validated by a multistep chemical synthesis approach (Wittig reaction) followed by semipreparative HPLC purification (chiral phase). Their detection thresholds in model wine solution were 60 ng/L (1) and 16 ng/L (2). Their distribution in toasted oak wood samples [GC-NCI-MS (NH₃) analysis] ranged from some ng/g to 210 ng/g for (1) and 85 ng/g for (2). Finally, additional sensory experiments demonstrated the impact of newly identified aldehydes in toasted oak wood.

Contribution of Volatile Odorous Terpenoid Compounds to Aged Cognac Spirits Aroma in a Context of Multicomponent Odor Mixtures

Cognac spirit aromas result from the presence of a wide variety of volatile odorous compounds associated with the modalities of spirit distillation and aging. However, very few studies have been carried out on aging notes of Cognac spirits. An HPLC fractionation approach was used in order to evidence fractions of interest recalling the specific aromatic nuances of aged Cognac. Then, a GC-O/MS analysis of the selected fractions allowed one to detect odorous zones and identify several volatile compounds. Among them, various well-known volatile compounds representative of the terpenoid family were highlighted, such as geraniol, α-terpinene, nerol, α-terpineol, 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol) and, particularly, piperitone, santalol, and α-campholenal, which have not previously been cited in Cognac. These compounds were quantitated and their detection thresholds were determined. Geraniol, α-terpinene, α-terpineol, and 1,8-cineole concentrations increased while spirits were more aged, while nerol tends to decrease. A sensory contribution of terpenes was observed through perceptual synergic effects, along with β-damascenone and whisky lactone.

Automated function imaging: a new operator-independent strain method for assessing left ventricular function

BACKGROUND

Speckle tracking is a new technique based on pure 2D grayscale ultrasound acquisition allowing calculation of segmental strains. To facilitate clinical application, speckle tracking has been integrated into the most recent echocardiographic systems for quick, automated evaluation of left ventricular function (Automated Function Imaging, AFI).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility, calculation time, accuracy and reproducibility of global longitudinal strain (GLS) from AFI in determining LV function in comparison to reference echocardiographic and angiographic methods-whatever the operator's experience.

METHODS

Echocardiography was performed in 65 patients scheduled for cardiac catheterization using a Vivid 7 system. They were divided into 3 groups according to EF (>55%, 35< or =EF< or =55%,<35%). Image quality, global LV function parameters (ejection fraction, aortic flow, dp/dt) and segmental contraction were analyzed by one experienced operator and one beginner. GLS was obtained from apical 2, 3 and 4 chamber views. GLS was compared to both echocardiographic and angiographic EF, as well as to other echocardiographic parameters.

RESULTS

GLS was obtained successfully in 97% of patients. Mean calculation time including correction of endocardial detection was less than 60 seconds. GLS was significantly different between the 3 groups, respectively -18.1+/-2.5%, -11.5+/-2.1% and -6.0+/-1.2% (p<0.01). Strong correlations were observed between GLS and LV function (r from 0.68 to 0.87) with a high level of reproducibility. No difference was observed between experienced and inexperienced operators.

CONCLUSION

AFI is clinically applicable and an effective means of assessing LV function due to its short acquisition time, feasibility and accuracy, whatever the experience of the operator.

Evaluation by Dipirydamole MRI of the effects of cardiac rehabilitation after myocardial infarction

Background: The effects of exercise training (ET) on myocardial perfusion after myocardial infarction have been well studied with scintigraphy whereas cardiac MRI seems a better technique which was not used yet in the literature in this indication. Methods: 11 patients after a first myocardial infarction were left again in 2 groups: a 20 session-ET program (T, n=6) and a control group (C, n=5). All patients underwent a dipirydamole MRI and a cardiopulmonary test at entry and after 3 months. Results At 3 months, improvements in work capacity (P < 0,05), peak VO2 (P < 0,05) were observed in T but not in C. Ejection fraction and left ventricular (LV) volumes were unchanged in T and C. Myocardial perfusion assessed by MRI was comparable at rest and after dipirydamole in each group. The recuperation of the segmentary kinetics was inversely proportional to the delayed enhancement given by MRI and was better for T than for C (P < 0,02). Conclusions: This is a preliminary study. Cardiac MRI makes it possible to apprehend perfusion in a reliable and reproducible way. ET has no detrimental effects on LV volumes and function; rather, it improves recovery of infarcted segments.

[Exercise test in athletes]

The particularities of exercise tests in athletes concern mainly the exertion protocols adapted to their increased physical capacities and the interpretation of ECG tracing which can sometimes be very special at rest and also misleading during exercise. In the great majority of cases, the test used is both cardiac and pulmonary, in order to assess the aerobic capacities, the maximal aerobic power, and the determination of ventilation thresholds (programming and follow-up of training...). More infrequently, the test is used to detect cardiovascular diseases, especially during a longitudinal follow-up of high-level athletes, or to exclude it in case of cardiovascular symptoms, atypical resting ECG or even in case of suspicion of disease (arrhythmia, cardiac chamber hypertrophy or dilation at echocardiography). In more aged sportsmen (athletes masters), exercise tests performed are usually required for screening coronary heart disease. In this case the test protocols should be more adapted for screening than for the assessment of sportive capacities.