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Flooding caused by climate change puts the productivity of sugarcane cultivation at risk. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of in vitro flooding stress on sugarcane plantlets. Sugarcane plantlets were grown in test tubes containing Murashige and Skoog semi-solid medium without growth regulators as a control treatment and two stress levels using a double layer with sterile distilled water to simulate hypoxia and anoxia. After 15 d of culture, the number of new shoots, plantlet height, number of leaves, number of roots, root length, stomatal density, percentage of closed stomata and percentage of dry matter were evaluated. In addition, biochemical variables such as chlorophylls, carotenoids, phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP), Rubisco, total proteins (TP), proline (Pr), glycine-betaine (GB), phenols, antioxidant capacity and lipid peroxidation were determined in all treatments. Results showed a higher number of new shoots, leaves and percentage of closed stomata in the flooded plantlets, while plantlet height, number of roots, stomatal density, and dry matter were higher in the control treatment. Regarding, chlorophyll, carotenoid, PEP and Rubisco contents decreased in the flooded treatments, while TP and phenol contents were higher in the partially submerged treatment. Antioxidant capacity and lipid peroxidation increased in the fully submerged treatment. Pr and GB contents did not show changes in any of the evaluated treatments. Stress induced by excess water in a double layer in vitro is an alternative method to determining physiological and biochemical mechanisms of tolerance to hypoxia and anoxia caused by flooding for breeding programs in sugarcane. • Flooding caused by climate change affects the productivity of sugarcane crop. • In vitro culture is an alternative for the study of flooding conditions. • Proline and glycine-betaine as sugarcane drought stress osmoprotectant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fertility in dairy cattle has declined as an unintended consequence of single-trait selection for high milk yield. The unfavorable genetic correlation between milk yield and fertility is now well documented; however, the underlying physiological mechanisms are still uncertain. To understand the relationship between these traits, we developed a method that clusters variants with similar patterns of effects and, after the integration of gene expression data, identifies the genes through which they are likely to act. Biological processes that are enriched in the genes of each cluster were then identified. We identified several clusters with unique patterns of effects. One of the clusters included variants associated with increased milk yield and decreased fertility, where the "archetypal" variant (i.e., the one with the largest effect) was associated with the GC gene, whereas others were associated with TRIM32 , LRRK2 , and U6-associated snRNA. These genes have been linked to transcription and alternative splicing, suggesting that these processes are likely contributors to the unfavorable relationship between the 2 traits. Another cluster, with archetypal variant near DGAT1 and including variants associated with CDH2 , BTRC , SFRP2 , ZFHX3 , and SLITRK5 , appeared to affect milk yield but have little effect on fertility. These genes have been linked to insulin, adipose tissue, and energy metabolism. A third cluster with archetypal variant near ZNF613 and including variants associated with ROBO1 , EFNA5 , PALLD , GPC6 , and PTPRT were associated with fertility but not milk yield. These genes have been linked to GnRH neuronal migration, embryonic development, or ovarian function. The use of archetypal clustering to group variants with similar patterns of effects may assist in identifying the biological processes underlying correlated traits. The method is hypothesis generating and requires experimental confirmation. However, we have uncovered several novel mechanisms potentially affecting milk production and fertility such as GnRH neuronal migration. We anticipate our method to be a starting point for experimental research into novel pathways, which have been previously unexplored within the context of dairy production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Holstein cattle carrying a prolactin receptor gene mutation (SLICK) exhibit short and sleek hair coats (short-haired Holstein [SLK]) enhancing thermotolerance and productivity compared with wild type–haired Holstein (WT) under tropical conditions. The objectives were to unravel the physiological and molecular mechanisms that confer an advantage to this slick genotype in Puerto Rico and determine potential correlations between metabolites and physiological variables. At 160 ± 3 DIM we compared vaginal temperatures (VT) and voluntary solar radiation exposure (VSRE) during 48 h between 9 SLK and 9 WT Holsteins, whereas a subsample of 7 SLK and 7 WT were used to assess udder skin temperature, mammary gland hemodynamics and transcriptomics, and blood plasma untargeted metabolomics at a single time point. The SLK cattle showed lower VT throughout the day and greater VSRE at 1000 h and 1100 h compared with their WT counterparts. Total mammary blood flow (MBF) was greater in SLK Holsteins compared with WT. The metabolite 9-nitrooctadecenoic acid was identified as a potential biomarker for MBF; moreover, SLK cattle had greater amounts of this metabolite in their plasma. Prostaglandin D2 synthase (PTGS) was upregulated in the slick mammary gland, while plasma prostaglandin D2 was positively correlated with milk yield and increased in SLK Holsteins compared with WT. Interestingly, the arachidonic acid metabolism pathway was enriched in the mammary gland transcriptome and perturbed in the blood metabolome in the SLK Holsteins. In conclusion, SLK Holsteins exhibited lower body temperatures, greater VSRE, enhanced blood supply to the mammary gland, and alterations in genes and metabolites involved in arachidonic acid metabolism at the mammary gland and blood plasma. The usage of the SLK Holstein cattle genetics in dairy operations could be a feasible alternative to mitigate the adverse consequences of heat stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gastrointestinal microbial consortium in dairy cattle is critical to determining the energetic status of the dairy cow from birth through her final lactation. The ruminant's microbial community can degrade a wide variety of feedstuffs, which can affect growth, as well as production rate and efficiency on the farm, but can also affect food safety, animal health, and environmental impacts of dairy production. Gut microbial diversity and density are powerful tools that can be harnessed to benefit both producers and consumers. The incentives in the United States to develop Alternatives to Antibiotics for use in food-animal production have been largely driven by the Veterinary Feed Directive and have led to an increased use of probiotic approaches to alter the gastrointestinal microbial community composition, resulting in improved heifer growth, milk production and efficiency, and animal health. However, the efficacy of direct-fed microbials or probiotics in dairy cattle has been highly variable due to specific microbial ecological factors within the host gut and its native microflora. Interactions (both synergistic and antagonistic) between the microbial ecosystem and the host animal physiology (including epithelial cells, immune system, hormones, enzyme activities, and epigenetics) are critical to understanding why some probiotics work but others do not. Increasing availability of next-generation sequencing approaches provides novel insights into how probiotic approaches change the microbial community composition in the gut that can potentially affect animal health (e.g., diarrhea or scours, gut integrity, foodborne pathogens), as well as animal performance (e.g., growth, reproduction, productivity) and fermentation parameters (e.g., pH, short-chain fatty acids, methane production, and microbial profiles) of cattle. However, it remains clear that all direct-fed microbials are not created equal and their efficacy remains highly variable and dependent on stage of production and farm environment. Collectively, data have demonstrated that probiotic effects are not limited to the simple mechanisms that have been traditionally hypothesized, but instead are part of a complex cascade of microbial ecological and host animal physiological effects that ultimately impact dairy production and profitability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Desert is one of the harshest places on the earth due to low precipitation and soil nutrients. • Global desertification is a continuous process; almost 60% of the land surface is now desertified. • The plants in these desert ecosystems have developed several novel phenotypic characteristics that overcome the harsh environment. • Genome sequencing of the desert plant can enable us to identify the novel trait responsible for overcoming the xerophytic condition. • Transfer of novel genetic traits can be done to the crop plants. So that plants can withstand the harsh environment and overcome crop loss due to drought and other extreme conditions. Despite the exposure to arid environmental conditions across the globe ultimately hampering the sustainability of the living organism, few plant species are equipped with several unique genotypic, biochemical, and physiological features to counter such harsh conditions. Physiologically, they have evolved with reduced leaf size, spines, waxy cuticles, thick leaves, succulent hydrenchyma, sclerophyll, chloroembryo, and photosynthesis in nonfoliar and other parts. At the biochemical level, they are evolved to perform efficient photosynthesis through Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) and C4 pathways with the formation of oxaloacetic acid (Hatch-Slack pathway) instead of the C3 pathway. Additionally, comparative genomics with existing data provides ample evidence of the xerophytic plants' positive selection to adapt to the arid environment. However, adding more high-throughput sequencing of xerophyte plant species is further required for a comparative genomic study toward trait discovery related to survival. Learning from the mechanism to survive in harsh conditions could pave the way to engineer crops for future sustainable agriculture. The distinct physiology of desert plants allows them to survive in harsh environments. However, the genomic composition also contributes significantly to this and requires great attention. This review emphasizes the physiological and genomic adaptation of desert plants. Other important parameters, such as desert biodiversity and photosynthetic strategy, are also discussed with recent progress in the field. Overall, this review discusses the different features of desert plants, which prepares them for harsh conditions intending to translate knowledge to engineer plant species for sustainable agriculture. This review comprehensively presents the physiology, molecular mechanism, and genomics of desert plants aimed towards engineering a sustainable crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physiology of different Escherichia coli stains was analyzed for growth with glycolate as a potentially promising sustainable sole source of carbon and energy. Different E. coli strains showed large differences regarding lag phases after provision of glycolate. Whereas E. coli W showed fast adaptation, E. coli BW25113, JM101, and BL21 (DE3) needed extensive time for adaption (up to 30 generations) until the attainable µ max was reached, which, at 30 °C, amounted to 0.20–0.25 h−1 for all strains. The overexpression of genes encoding glycolate degradation did neither overcome the need for adaptation of E. coli BL21 (DE3) nor improve growth of E. coli W. Rather, high level expression of proteins involved in uptake and initial degradation steps had an adverse effect on growth. Overall, the results show a promising capacity of E. coli strains for growth on glycolate. [Display omitted] • E. coli strains differ regarding adaptation duration for growth on glycolate • Adapted E. coli strains showed efficient growth on glycolate • Overexpression of early degradation genes impairs growth on glycolate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a wide panel of environments (space shuttles, orbital stations, parabolic flights, Arctic expeditions, Antarctic bases) and experiments (ISEMSI, EXEMSI, HUBES, CELSS, MARS-500, SIRIUS) over extended periods of time (seconds, days, weeks, months and years), we have observed, described and quantified adaptive behaviors. We have performed such research and study in the field of human and space ethology, and we have associated, analyzed and interpreted the relevant behavioral manifestations (movements, postures, orientations, actions, interactions, expressions, communications) within a framework that integrates physiology, psychology, anthropology and philosophy. Our prime objectives have been to determine how and when the salient crews built positive strategies in a systemic, dynamic, synergic and salutogenic process on Earth and in space. • The method is observation, description and quantification of human behaviors. • Occurrences of behaviors are dependent of environmental variables. • Adaptive strategies are related to temporal and contextual variables. • Interdisciplinary analyses of ethological data are the final integrative goal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In fluctuating thermal conditions, the survival challenge for insects is particularly difficult because their physiological activities depend upon environmental temperature. The extreme temperature or heat stress leads to the insect species' extinction and evolution in adaptation strategies. Upon extreme heat, many insect species cannot survive, because they do not possess sufficient heat tolerance during gradual heat stress in their habitat. In the current review, we demonstrated the physiological process which triggers responses toward heat stressed environments and engenders the heat tolerance capacities in ectothermic insects including the nervous system response to detect heat, metabolic mechanism in response to heat stress, silk shelters behavior during thermal changes, host plant preferences, microhabitat selection, thermoregulatory behavior and thermal acclimation response under the heat stress. This review highlighted that besides the insect's responses regulated by varied physiological mechanisms, heat shock proteins (HSPs) still needs proper investigations. Entrenched in geographical distributions and microhabitat selection, we discussed the adaptation strategies and physiological and behavioral mechanisms that evolved due to heat stress. Many insect species cope with heat stress with the help of phenotype plasticity and genetic variations. The plasticity mechanisms are not sufficient alone to avoid extreme temperatures in insect populations. There is still need to explore how insects respond to thermal changes by using advanced genetic variation methods in both hot and cold-adapted insect species. This review enriched the new insight to improve the researcher's understanding of distinct responses and evolutionary consequences of insect responses and thermal adaptations under the changing climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancing the ability of animals to convert feed into meat or milk by optimizing feed efficiency (FE) has become a priority in livestock research. Although untargeted metabolomics is increasingly used in this field and may improve our understanding of FE, no information in this regard is available in dairy ewes. This study was conducted to (1) discriminate sheep divergent for FE and (2) provide insights into the physiological mechanisms contributing to FE through high-throughput metabolomics. The ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q/TOF-MS) technique was applied to easily accessible animal fluids (plasma and milk) to assess whether their metabolome differs between high- and low-feed efficient lactating ewes (H-FE and L-FE groups, respectively; 8 animals/group). Blood and milk samples were collected on the last day of the 3-wk period used for FE estimation. A total of 793 features were detected in plasma and 334 in milk, with 100 and 38 of them, respectively, showing differences between H-FE and L-FE. The partial least-squares discriminant analysis separated both groups of animals regardless of the type of sample. Plasma allowed the detection of a greater number of differential features; however, results also supported the usefulness of milk, more easily accessible, to discriminate dairy sheep divergent for FE. Regarding pathway analysis, nitrogen metabolism (either anabolism or catabolism) seemed to play a central role in FE, with plasma and milk consistently indicating a great impact of AA metabolism. A potential influence of pathways related to energy/lipid metabolism on FE was also observed. The variable importance in the projection plot revealed 15 differential features in each matrix that contributed the most for the separation in H-FE and L-FE, such as l -proline and phosphatidylcholine 20:4e in plasma or l -pipecolic acid and phosphatidylethanolamine (18:2) in milk. Overall, untargeted metabolomics provided valuable information into metabolic pathways that may underlie FE in dairy ewes, with a special relevance of AA metabolism in determining this complex phenotype in the ovine. Further research is warranted to validate these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) frequently results in sudden death and poses a serious threat to public health worldwide. The drugs approved for the prevention and treatment of ASCVD are usually used in combination but are inefficient owing to their side effects and single therapeutic targets. Therefore, the use of natural products in developing drugs for the prevention and treatment of ASCVD has received great scholarly attention. Andrographolide (AG) is a diterpenoid lactone compound extracted from Andrographis paniculata. In addition to its use in conditions such as sore throat, AG can be used to prevent and treat ASCVD. It is different from drugs that are commonly used in the prevention and treatment of ASCVD and can not only treat obesity, diabetes, hyperlipidaemia and ASCVD but also inhibit the pathological process of atherosclerosis (AS) including lipid accumulation, inflammation, oxidative stress and cellular abnormalities by regulating various targets and pathways. However, the pharmacological mechanisms of AG underlying the prevention and treatment of ASCVD have not been corroborated, which may hinder its clinical development and application. Therefore, this review summarizes the physiological and pathological mechanisms underlying the development of ASCVD and the in vivo and in vitro pharmacological effects of AG on the relative risk factors of AS and ASCVD. The findings support the use of the old pharmacological compound ('old bottle') as a novel drug ('novel wine') for the prevention and treatment of ASCVD. Additionally, this review summarizes studies on the availability as well as pharmaceutical and pharmacokinetic properties of AG, aiming to provide more information regarding the clinical application and further research and development of AG. [Display omitted] • Risk factors and pathogenesis of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. • Andrographolide prevents and treats the atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. • The toxicity, pharmacological and pharmacokinetic properties of andrographolide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The theme of iodine in the dairy sector is of particular interest due to the involvement and the interconnection of several stakeholders along the dairy food chain. Iodine plays a fundamental role in animal nutrition and physiology, and in cattle it is an essential micronutrient during lactation and for fetal development and the calf's growth. Its correct use in food supplementation is crucial to guarantee the animal's recommended daily requirement to avoid excess intake and long-term toxicity. Milk iodine is fundamental for public health, being one of the major sources of iodine in Mediterranean and Western diets. Public authorities and the scientific community have made great efforts to address how and to what extent different drivers may affect milk iodine concentration. The scientific literature concurs that the amount of iodine administered through animal feed and mineral supplements is the most important factor affecting its concentration in milk of most common dairy species. Additionally, farming practices related to milking (e.g., use of iodized teat sanitizers), herd management (e.g., pasture vs. confinement), and other environmental factors (e.g., seasonality) have been identified as sources of variation of milk iodine concentration. Overall, the aim of this review is to provide a multilevel overview on the mechanisms that contribute to the iodine concentration of milk and dairy products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas therapy has been proven to be a promising and advantageous treatment option for cancers. Studies have shown that nitric oxide (NO) is one of the smallest structurally significant gas molecules with great potential to suppress cancer. However, there is controversy and concern about its use as it exhibits the opposite physiological effects based on its levels in the tumor. Therefore, the anti-cancer mechanism of NO is the key to cancer treatment, and rationally designed NO delivery systems are crucial to the success of NO biomedical applications. This review summarizes the endogenous production of NO, its physiological mechanisms of action, the application of NO in cancer treatment, and nano-delivery systems for delivering NO donors. Moreover, it briefly reviews challenges in delivering NO from different nanoparticles and the issues associated with its combination treatment strategies. The advantages and challenges of various NO delivery platforms are recapitulated for possible transformation into clinical applications. Roles of NO in cancer treatment, nanoplatforms for NO donors' delivery alone as well as in combination with other modalities, and the challenges. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objectives of this study were to estimate genetic parameters for milk urea nitrogen (MUN) in Holstein cattle and to conduct a single-step (ss)GWAS to identify candidate genes associated with MUN. Phenotypic measurements from 24,435 Holstein cows were collected from March 2013 to July 2019 in 9 dairy farms located in the Beijing area, China. A total of 2,029 cows were genotyped using the Illumina 150K Bovine Bead Chip, containing 121,188 SNP. A single-trait repeatability model was used to evaluate the genetic background of MUN. We found that MUN is a trait with low heritability (0.06 ± 0.004) and repeatability (0.12). Considering similar milk production levels, a lower MUN concentration indicates higher nitrogen digestibility. The genetic correlations between MUN and milk yield, net energy concentration, fat percentage, protein percentage, and lactose percentage were positive and ranged from 0.02 to 0.26. The genetic correlation between MUN and somatic cell score (SCS) was negative (−0.18), indicating that animals with higher MUN levels tend to have lower SCS. Both ssGWAS and pathway enrichment analyses were used to explore the genetic mechanisms underlying MUN. A total of 18 SNP (located on BTA11, BTA12, BTA14, BTA17, and BTA18) were found to be significantly associated with MUN. The genes CFAP77 , CAMSAP1 , CACNA1B , ADGRB1 , FARP1 , and INTU are considered to be candidate genes for MUN. These candidate genes are associated with important biological processes such as protein and lipid metabolism and binding to specific proteins. This set of candidate genes, metabolic pathways, and their functions provide a better understanding of the genomic architecture and physiological mechanisms underlying MUN in Holstein cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many cooling strategies are used to keep cows in thermal homeostasis; however, most of them are applied to the group level, commonly at the feed bunk or milking parlor. The variance of heat stress effects on animals are well known, but with more individualized management in dairy farms, group cooling opportunities are becoming restricted. It is known that dairy cattle are variable in their responses to an increase in heat load. Thus, the first objective of this study was to investigate the effect of 2 mandatory soakings at the exit of the milking parlor and free access to a voluntary soaking system compared with cows with access to a voluntary soaking system only, with no mandatory soakings. The second objective of this study was to assess the heat abatement capability of voluntary soaking of cows by assessing cow physiology, behavior, and milk production. Last, this study aimed to determine the individual use of the voluntary heat abatement system and its relationship with temperature-humidity index (THI). Fifteen mid-lactation Holstein cows were enrolled in this study and had free access to a motion-activated soaker (Cool Sense, Edstrom) located adjacent to the research pen for an 8-wk data collection period. Cows were paired according to parity, milk production, and body weight, and assigned a treatment with or without mandatory soakings twice per day. In the mandatory soaking treatment (MS), cows were soaked using a motion-activated soaker at the exit of the milking parlor and had free access to the voluntary soaker in the pen. Cows in the treatment without mandatory soakings (NMS) were not soaked at the exit of the milking parlor and had free access to the voluntary soaker in the pen. The effects of soaker treatment were analyzed using mixed linear models. The model included treatment, soaker uses per day, pair, mean daily THI, days in milk, daily milk yield, and interaction of treatment with mean daily THI. Study day was specified as a repeated measure, and cow as the subject, using an autoregressive structure. Also, we assessed the relationship of mean soaker use and THI against all variables. There was great individual variation in voluntary soaker use, ranging from 0 to 227 soakings/d (mean ± standard deviation, 13 ± 30 voluntary soakings/d). Treatment did not affect voluntary soaker use (MS, 12.4 ± 1.4 soakings/d; NMS, 14.8 ± 1.4 soakings/d), respiration rate (MS, 57.3 ± 0.4 breaths/min; NMS, 56.4 ± 0.4 breaths/min), or milk yield (MS, 36.5 ± 0.6 kg/d; NMS, 36.2 ± 0.6 kg/d). However, MS cows spent more time ruminating (MS, 558.6 ± 5.2 min/d; NMS, 543.4 ± 5.4 min/d). Temperature-humidity index had a positive relationship with voluntary soaker use and mean respiration rate. In conclusion, voluntary soaker use related positively to the THI, but no major productive, physiological, or behavioral differences were observed between soaking treatments. Furthermore, we found that voluntary soaker use is highly variable among cows and it was related positively to milk yield, where higher producing cows used the soaker more frequently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Development of rapid and effective hemostatic materials has always been the focus of research in the healthcare field. Nanofibrous materials which recapitulate the delicate nano-topography feature of fibrin fibers produced during natural hemostatic process, offer large length-to-diameter ratio and surface area, tunable porous structure, and precise control in architecture, showing great potential for staunching bleeding. Here we present a comprehensive review of advances in nanofibrous hemostatic materials, focusing on the following three important parts: structural design, fabrication methods, and hemostatic mechanisms. This review begins with an introduction to the physiological hemostatic mechanism and current commercial hemostatic agents. Then, it focuses on recent progress in electrospun nanofibrous hemostatic materials in terms of composition and structure control, surface modification, and in-situ deposition. The article emphasizes the development of three-dimensional (3D) electrospun nanofibrous materials and their emerging evolution for improving hemostatic function. Next, it discusses the fabrication of self-assembling peptide or protein-mimetic peptide nanofibers, co-assembling supramolecular nanofibers, as well as other nanofibrous hemostatic agents. Further, the article highlights the external and intracavitary hemostatic management based on various nanofiber aggregates. In the end, this review concludes with the current challenges and future perspectives of nanofibrous hemostatic materials. This article reviews recent advances in nanofibrous hemostatic materials including fabrication methods, composition and structural control, performance improvement, and hemostatic mechanisms. A variety of methods including electrospinning, self-assembly, grinding and refining, template synthesis, and chemical vapor deposition, have been developed to prepare nanofibrous materials. These methods provide robustness in control of the nanofiber architecture in the forms of hydrogels, two-dimensional (2D) membranes, 3D sponges, or composites, showing promising potential in the external and intracavitary hemostasis and wound healing applications. This review will be of great interest to the broad readers in the field of hemostatic materials and multifunctional biomaterials. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previously, we reported, based on an untargeted metabolomics, carnitine derivatives are part of a mechanism to overcome impaired mitochondrial functioning triggered by an acyl-group overflow in CHO cells. In this study, we analyzed the cell-specific rates of 24 selected metabolites using two metrics: correlation coefficients and root-mean-square deviations (RMSDs) between glucose-fed versus glucose/lactic acid-fed cultures. The time-course profiles of acetylcarnitine, adipoylcarnitine, glutarylcarnitine, glutamate, and succinate exhibited significant negative correlations between the two culture conditions. Based on RMSDs, seven carnitine derivatives, 3-hydroxy-methyl-glutarate, mevalonate, pyridoxamine-5-phosphate, succinate, and glycine were substantially different. The analyses from the two metrics reveal a distinctive rearrangement of rates from the following metabolic pathways: (i) high secretion rates of carnitines as part of the acyl-group removal, (ii) low secretion rates of succinate, related to the tricarboxylic acid cycle and the electron-transport chain, (iii) low secretion rates of pyridoxamine-5-phosphate – a co-factor for amino acid catabolism, transaminations, and transsulfuration, and (iv) increases in the consumption rates of glutamate and glycine, both used to produce glutathione. The rewiring in rates observed upon feeding lactic acid is best explained by the activation of pathways supporting homeostasis of acyl-groups and antioxidant synthesis, which are required for continuous proper functioning of oxidative phosphorylation. • The carbon-buffering system removes acyl-CoAs from the mitochondria, and finally from the cells. • High secretion rates of carnitine derivatives are possibly indicating an impaired mitochondrial functionality. • Activation of reduced glutathione synthesis by the lower uptake rates of glucose. • A lowered antioxidant glutathione defense has a negative impact on the TCA cycle's processing capacity of acyl-CoAs. • Rewiring in rates supports proper cell's mitochondrial and antioxidant activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to evaluate the incidence of unstable non-acid milk (UNAM) in cows fed either sugarcane or corn silage. Second, we aimed to evaluate the effect of daily variation (d 1 to 4) and alcohol grades (72, 78, and 80%) on UNAM incidence. The experiment was conducted as a split-plot crossover design, with 2 periods and 2 roughage types (sugarcane or corn silage). Thirteen multiparous Holstein cows with an average of 281 ± 29 d in milk were randomly distributed into 2 diets. Individual blood (analysis of total proteins, albumin, urea, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, chloride, glucose, and lactate) and milk samples (analysis of protein, fat, lactose and total solids, somatic cell count, and characterization of the protein profile) were collected during the last 4 d of each period. For UNAM identification, the alcohol test was conducted in milk samples at 4°C; specifically, if the sample presented the formation of clots, this would be noted as positive for UNAM. In addition, the Dornic acidity analysis was performed in the same samples to evaluate the true milk acidity. The use of sugarcane and higher degrees of alcohol were associated with increased UNAM. We observed no daily variation in UNAM. Nevertheless, we found no roughage type effect on the variables most commonly associated with UNAM, such as changes in salts in the casein micelle and, consequently, the zeta potential and the κ-casein (CN) fraction. The Pearson correlation analysis showed that the zeta potential and the concentrations of α S2 -CN, blood ionic calcium, lactate, and glucose increased as the incidence of UNAM increased, showing a positive correlation among these variables. In contrast, the concentrations of lactose, phosphorus, and potassium decreased as UNAM increased, presenting a negative correlation. This study brought important discoveries to unveil why cows manifest UNAM. For instance, higher alcohol grades and cows fed with sugarcane had increased the incidence of UNAM. Additionally, animals with a higher incidence of UNAM (sugarcane-fed cows) were related to increased ionic calcium and glucose and changes in milk protein profile, with lower levels of BSA, β-CN, and α-lactalbumin and greater α S1 -CN content, all of which were correlated with UNAM. Nonetheless, this trial also provides evidence for the need for further studies to better understand the physiological mechanisms that directly affect the stability of milk protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Artificial Gravity Bed Rest with European Space Agency (AGBRESA) study involved 2 campaigns of 60-day bed rest at 6° head down tilt in the:envihab facility in Cologne, Germany, in 2019. The objective was to determine whether centrifugation of supine subjects mitigates physiological changes that occur due to the exposure to the spaceflight analog of 6° head down tilt. A set of international standard measures was used to evaluate bone, muscle, nutritional status, ocular changes, and psychological state and to assess cardiovascular, sensorimotor, and immune systems functions. After 60 days of bed rest, the subjects who were not exposed to centrifugation had significant decreases in mineral density at the hip and lumbar spine, decreased muscle strength of the knee and ankle, reduced maximal aerobic capacity, orthostatic intolerance, and impaired balance and locomotion, as well as significant biochemical, immunological, and psychological alterations. A daily 30-min exposure to 1 Gz supine centrifugation at the center of mass (0.3 Gz at the head, 2 Gz at the feet) mitigated mineral density loss in the femur neck and lumbar spine; and lessened the effects of bed rest on aerobic capacity, biochemistry, and immunology. However, low statistical power could contribute to the non-significant effects that are reported. • 60-day bed rest induces decreased bone loss, muscle strength and aerobic capacity. • Bed rest also affects vascular, balance, immune, ocular, and psychology functions. • Daily 30-min of centrifugation mitigates biochemical and immunological alterations. • Centrifugation also mitigates bone loss and decreased aerobic capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global climate change is a major trigger of unexpected temperature fluctuations. The impacts of marine heatwaves (MHWs) and nano-titanium dioxide (nano-TiO 2) on marine organisms have been extensively investigated. However, the potential mechanisms underlying their interactive effects on physiological processes and metabolism remain poorly understood, especially regarding periodic MHWs in real-world conditions. In this study, the effects of nano-TiO 2 (at concentrations of 0, 25, and 250 μg/L) and periodic MHWs on the condition index (CI) and underlying metabolic mechanisms were investigated in mussels (Mytilus coruscus). The results showed that mussels try to upregulate their respiration rate (RR) to enhance aerobic metabolism (indicated by elevated succinate dehydrogenase) under short-term nano-TiO 2 exposure. However, even at ambient concentration (25 μg/L), prolonged nano-TiO 2 exposure inhibited ingestion ability (decreased clearance rate) and glycolysis (inhibited pyruvate kinase, hexokinase, and phosphofructokinase activities), which led to an insufficient energy supply (decreased triglyceride, albumin, and ATP contents). Repeated thermal scenarios caused more severe physiological damage, demonstrating that mussels are fragile to periodic MHWs. MHWs decreased the zeta potential of the nano-TiO 2 particles but increased the hydrodynamic diameter. Additionally, exposure to nano-TiO 2 and periodic MHWs further affected aerobic respiration (inhibited lactate dehydrogenase and succinate dehydrogenase activities), metabolism (decreased RR, activities of respiratory metabolism-related enzymes, and expressions of PEPCK , PPARγ , and ACO), and overall health condition (decreased ATP and CI). These findings indicate that the combined stress of these two stressors exerts more detrimental impact on the physiological performance and energy metabolism of mussels, and periodic MHWs exacerbate the toxicological effects of ambient concentration nano-TiO 2. Given the potential worsening of nanoparticle pollution and the increase in extreme heat events in the future, the well-being of mussels in the marine environment may face further threats. [Display omitted] • The effects of periodic MHWs on mussel Mytilus coruscus were investigated. • MHWs and nano-TiO 2 adversely affected the physiology and metabolism of mussels. • IBR indicated that the effects of nano-TiO 2 on mussels was concentration-dependent. • 2nd MHWs induced higher ecological risk than 1st MHWs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Freshwater salinization is an escalating global environmental issue that threatens freshwater biodiversity, including fish populations. This study aims to uncover the molecular basis of salinity physiological responses in a non-native minnow species (Phoxinus septimaniae x P. dragarum) exposed to saline effluents from potash mines in the Llobregat River, Barcelona, Spain. Employing high-throughput mRNA sequencing and differential gene expression analyses, brain, gills, and liver tissues collected from fish at two stations (upstream and downstream of saline effluent discharge) were examined. Salinization markedly influenced global gene expression profiles, with the brain exhibiting the most differentially expressed genes, emphasizing its unique sensitivity to salinity fluctuations. Pathway analyses revealed the expected enrichment of ion transport and osmoregulation pathways across all tissues. Furthermore, tissue-specific pathways associated with stress, reproduction, growth, immune responses, methylation, and neurological development were identified in the context of salinization. Rigorous validation of RNA-seq data through quantitative PCR (qPCR) underscored the robustness and consistency of our findings across platforms. This investigation unveils intricate molecular mechanisms steering salinity physiological response in non-native minnows confronting diverse environmental stressors. This comprehensive analysis sheds light on the underlying genetic and physiological mechanisms governing fish physiological response in salinity-stressed environments, offering essential knowledge for the conservation and management of freshwater ecosystems facing salinization. [Display omitted] • Minnows adapt to salt stress, unveiling crucial molecular responses for survival. • Transcriptomics reveal salinity stress in gills, liver, and brain pathways. • The brain plays a pivotal role in stressor adaptation. • Transcriptomic analysis suggests potential strategies in conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Diabetes causes MMP and TIMP expression changes. • Diabetes affects maintenance of pregnancy by calcium, BMP, p53, Hippo, Wnt and TNF like signalling pathways • Diabetes may affect these gene expressions indirectly, rather than directly, through the physiological mechanisms it causes to change. The primary aim of this study was to explore the impact of diabetes on matrix metalloproteases and tissue inhibitors, crucial factors for successful implantation, and to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that undergo changes in the endometrium and the embryo during diabetic pregnancies. In this investigation, we established a streptozotocin-induced diabetic pregnant rat model. Microarray analysis followed by RT-PCR was utilized to identify gene regions exhibiting expression alterations. Subsequently, we assessed the effects of MMPs and tissue inhibitors using ELISA and immunohistochemistry techniques, in addition to analyzing changes at the genetic level. Diabetes led to the upregulation of MMP3, MMP9, and MMP20 on the 6.5th day of pregnancy, while causing the downregulation of MMP3, MMP9, and MMP11 on the 8.5th day of pregnancy. TIMP1 expression was downregulated on the 8.5th day compared to the control group. No statistically significant differences were observed between the groups regarding other TIMP expressions. KEGG pathway analysis revealed that diabetes induced alterations in the expression of genes associated with certain microRNAs, as well as signaling pathways such as cAMP, calcium, BMP, p53, MAPK, PI3K-Akt, Jak-STAT, Hippo, Wnt, and TNF. Additionally, gene ontology analysis unveiled changes in membrane structures, extracellular matrix, signaling pathways, ion binding, protein binding, cell adhesion molecule binding, and receptor-ligand activity. This study serves as a valuable guide for investigating the mechanisms responsible for complications in diabetic pregnancies. By revealing the early-stage effects of diabetes, it offers insight into the development of new diagnostic and treatment approaches, ultimately contributing to improved patient care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A more appropriate downscaling method is constructed for satellite-observed SIF. • f esc estimation by using SIF as an input parameter to ML has a good performance. • Different downscaling methods are applied to TROPOMI SIF. • SIF total can better reflect photosynthetic differences across vegetation types. • Our downscaling method has a better GPP estimation effect in sparse plant areas. Solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF) is strongly correlated with gross primary productivity (GPP). Satellite-observed canopy SIF (SIF obs) captures only a part of the total leaf-emitted SIF (SIF total); therefore, SIF obs may hinder the interpretation of the physiological mechanism for GPP estimation. Furthermore, there are still significant discrepancies in the estimated SIF obs escape ratio (f esc) from the canopy to the leaf level with current methods. Here, we selected several vegetation canopy variables and downscaled SIF obs based on the Soil Canopy Observation, Photochemistry and Energy fluxes (SCOPE) model from the canopy to the leaf level using machine learning (ML) algorithms and then applied our method to the TROPOspheric Monitoring Instrument (TROPOMI) near-infrared (NIR) SIF obs. The results showed that simulating the f esc with SIF obs , TROPOMI NIR reflectance, and the fraction of photosynthetically active radiation (FPAR) avoided the effects of different sun-sensor geometry conditions introduced by different sensors and was more suitable for satellite-observed SIF obs downscaling. Our downscaled SIF total also correlated well with the flux site GPP in areas with sparse vegetation types. SIF total better reflected the photosynthetic differences among vegetation types and showed an enhanced relationship with absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (APAR) compared with SIF obs. We provide an efficient canopy-to-leaf SIF obs downscaling method improved SIF total and GPP estimation, and our results also demonstrated the potential for using SIF obs as vegetation information in sparse coverage areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic (As) represents a hazardous, carcinogenic substance transported in the food chain causing severe health issues. Several technologies are implemented to minimize arsenic accumulation and toxicity to plants and soil. Traditional arsenic remediation methodologies utilize soil washing, land filling, and chemical stabilization. Soil microorganisms' applications render cost-effective and eco-friendly arsenic toxicity alleviation. Microorganisms-mediated methods have gained momentum over traditional remediation in recent years. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are predominant microorganisms forming symbiosis with terrestrial plant roots. AMF mycelium interacts with the rhizosphere network and improves essential nutrient acquisition, water absorption, and plant growth. AMF also accounts for stress management and plant protection. Directly or indirectly AMF mitigates arsenic metal stress through plant growth and augmented physiological mechanisms. The AMF-mediated arsenic toxicity management encompasses the symbiosis between AMF and host plant. AMF mycelium acts as a metal sink and reduces soil arsenic concentrations, accumulation, and translocation of arsenic in roots and shoots. Thus, AMF inoculation reduces arsenic mobilization and increases arsenic biological dilution. Consequently, arsenic accumulation induces a decrease in oxidative stress. AMF aids the host plant growth and maintains the phosphate/arsenate ratio in the plant tissues. Thereby, a suitable environment is created in arsenic-contaminated soils by AMF. Environmental management of As toxicity, tolerance, and remediation strategies are correlated for sustainable agriculture. • Arsenic (As) corresponds to class-I carcinogen exhibiting toxicity and entered into food chain. • AMF forms symbiosis with almost 90% of terrestrial plants and alleviate metalloid toxicity. • Increased P/As molar ratio refers to the prominent indicator of AMF mediated alleviation of As. • AMF not only alleviate arsenic stress but also improve plant growth promoting characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research has shown that cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) involves a series of physiological and pathological mechanisms, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and cell apoptosis. The cannabinoid receptor 2 agonist AM1241 has been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress effects. However, it is unclear whether AM1241 has a protective effect against brain ischemia-reperfusion injury, and its underlying mechanisms are not yet known. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative stress, and anti-apoptotic effects of AM1241 and its mechanisms in BV2 cells stimulated with H 2 O 2 and in a C57BL/6 mouse model of CIRI in vitro and in vivo , respectively. In vitro , AM1241 significantly inhibited the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the increase in Toll-like receptor 4/myeloid differentiation protein 2 (MD2/TLR4) complex induced by H 2 O 2. Under H 2 O 2 stimulation, MD2 overexpression resulted in increased levels of MD2/TLR4 complex, TNF-α, IL-6, NOX2, BAX, and Cleaved-Caspase3 (C-Caspase3), as well as the activation of the MAPK pathway and NF-κB, which were reversed by AM1241. In addition, molecular docking experiments showed that AM1241 directly interacted with MD2. Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) experiments further confirmed the binding of AM1241 to MD2. In vivo , AM1241 significantly attenuated neurofunctional impairment, brain edema, increased infarct volume, oxidative stress levels, and neuronal apoptosis in CIRI mice overexpressing MD2. Our study demonstrates for the first time that AM1241 alleviates mouse CIRI by inhibiting the MD2/TLR4 complex, exerting anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative stress and anti-apoptotic effects. [Display omitted] • AM1241 protects against cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI). • MD2 promotes microglial inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. • In microglia, AM1241 exerts anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic effects by inhibiting MD2/TLR4. • AM1241 can directly bind to and interact with MD2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epigenetic-mediated modifications, induced by adverse environmental conditions, significantly alter an organism's physiological mechanisms. Even after elimination of the stimulus, these epigenetic modifications can be inherited through mitosis, thereby triggering transgenerational epigenetics. Plastics, with their versatile properties, are indispensable in various aspects of daily life. However, due to mismanagement, plastics have become so ubiquitous in the environment that no ecosystem on Earth is free from micro-nanoplastics (MNPs). This situation has raised profound concerns regarding their potential impact on human health. Recently, both in vivo animal and in vitro human cellular models have shown the potential to identify the harmful effects of MNPs at the genome level. The emerging epigenetic impact of MNP exposure is characterized by short-term alterations in chromatin remodelling and miRNA modulation. However, to understand long-term epigenetic changes and potential transgenerational effects, substantial and more environmentally realistic exposure studies are needed. In the current review, the intricate epigenetic responses, including the NHL-2-EKL-1, NDK-1-KSR1/2, and WRT-3-ASP-2 cascades, wnt-signalling, and TGF- β signalling, established in model organisms such as C. elegans , mice, and human cell lines upon exposure to MNPs, were systematically examined. This comprehensive analysis aimed to predict human pathways by identifying human homologs using databases and algorithms. We are confident that various parallel miRNA pathways, specifically the KSR-ERK-MAPK pathway, FOXO-Insulin cascade, and GPX3-HIF-α in humans, may be influenced by MNP exposure. This influence may lead to disruptions in key metabolic and immune pathways, including glucose balance, apoptosis, cell proliferation, and angiogenesis. Therefore, we believe that these genes and pathways could serve as potential biomarkers for future studies. Additionally, this review emphasizes the origin, dispersion, and distribution of plastics, providing valuable insights into the complex relationship between plastics and human health while elaborating on the epigenetic impacts. [Display omitted] • Studies on model organisms base the possible epigenetic responses in humans. • AGO2 homologous to AGL-2 in C. elegans make the cells prone to toxicity. • NM23-H1, regulates the resistance to toxicity via RAS/MAPK cascade. • The FOXO protein might lead to toxicity via diverse pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental pollution by solid waste leachate is a serious environmental and public health concern. Leachate contamination and pollution of environmental matrices have been reported, but no report of embryotoxic and developmental defects, and heritable transfer of leachate-induced toxicity in mice. We investigated the ability of Aba-Eku landfill leachate to induce embryonic malformations, developmental toxicity, and germline and somatic DNA damage in the F1 of exposed pregnant mice. Pregnant mice (n = 100) were randomly distributed into 5 experimental groups of 20 animals/group and exposed to 0.2 mL of 5–75% concentrations of the leachate (v/v; Aba-Eku landfill leachate: distilled water) by daily gavage from gestational day (GD) zero to postnatal day (PND) 21. A similar treatment was given to pregnant female mice administered with distilled water (negative control). At GD 18, ten dams from the treatment and control groups were sacrificed by cervical dislocation after which the embryos were collected from the uterus for analyses of fetal morphometric and skeletal metamers respectively. We then monitored the developmental conditions of F1 mice from the remaining ten dams until they were weaned at PND 21 and sacrificed at PND 56 and PND 98 for bone marrow micronucleus and spermiogram analyses respectively. We also analyzed the leachate for inorganic and organic pollutants and calculated the Leachate Pollution Index (LPI). The leachate reduced maternal and fetal birth weight and increased fetal mortality and postnatal appearance of physiological markers in the F1 mice. There was a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the frequency of fetal skeletal malformations, micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes, and apparent decline of epididymal sperm parameters. The concentrations of the inorganic and organic pollutants, and the LPI exceeded standard limits. Exposure of pregnant female mice to Aba-Eku landfill leachate caused embryonic defects and heritable DNA damage in subsequent generations. [Display omitted] • Leachate pollution index was significantly higher than standard limits. • Aba-Eku landfill leachate induced fetal skeletal malformations. • The leachate increased fetal mortality and altered postnatal development. • Heritable DNA damage and adverse effects on epididymal sperm parameters were observed in F1 mice. • Municipal solid waste leachate demonstrated trans -generational effect on the genetic material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unlike humans, teleosts like zebrafish exhibit robust retinal regeneration after injury from endogenous stem cells. However, it is unclear if regenerating cone photoreceptors regain physiological function and integrate correctly into post-synaptic circuits. We used two-photon calcium imaging of living adult retina to examine photoreceptor responses before and after light-induced lesions. To assess functional recovery of cones and downstream outer retinal circuits, we exploited color opponency; UV cones exhibit intrinsic Off-response to blue light, but On-response to green light, which depends on feedback signals from outer retinal circuits. Accordingly, we assessed the presence and quality of Off- vs. On-responses and found that regenerated UV cones regain both Off-responses to short-wavelength and On-responses to long-wavelength light within 3 months after lesion. Therefore, physiological circuit functionality is restored in regenerated cone photoreceptors, suggesting that inducing endogenous regeneration is a promising strategy for human retinal repair. [Display omitted] • UV cones in the adult zebrafish retina are color opponent • Regenerating UV cones progressively recover to normal physiological light responses • Regenerating UV cones recover color-opponent responses • Endogenously regenerating neurons can achieve physiological circuit functionality Abraham et al. use two-photon calcium imaging to gauge the single-cell and circuit functionality of regenerating photoreceptors in adult zebrafish retina after light lesion. They show that UV-cone Off-responses to blue light and On-responses to green light are regenerated, resulting in endogenous restoration of normal photoreceptor physiology and circuit functionality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The earlobe is a featherless, exposed thickening located beneath the ear canal of chickens, which plays a visual signaling role in age, performance, mental vitality, reproduction, and other aspects. However, despite its importance, there have been few studies on the color differences and formation mechanisms of chicken earlobes, particularly the structurally blue earlobes characteristic of the Jiangshan black-bone chicken. In this study, we explored the physiological mechanisms that may influence the formation of differently colored earlobes using 3 types of earlobes from Jiangshan black-bone chickens: light peacock green (Green group), dark peacock green (Blue group), and dark reddish purple (Black group). All 3 earlobe colors exhibited positive melanin Masson-Fontana staining, and the thickness of collagen fibers in the dermis decreased in the order of Green, Blue, and Black groups. A total of 1,953 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected in the 3 earlobes through mRNA sequencing, among which the GO term "collagen trimer" was significantly enriched in DEGs between groups. Additionally, 716 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified in the 3 earlobes using 4D-DIA proteomics, with the term "collagen fibril organization" being significantly enriched in DEPs between the Green and Black groups. Integrated analysis of transcriptome and proteome data revealed that 12 DEGs and DEPs were commonly differentially expressed between the Green and Black groups, including the gene LUM (corneal keratan sulfate proteoglycan), which was significantly enriched in the "collagen fibril organization" GO term. In conclusion, our study suggests that LUM plays a crucial role in the formation of peacock green earlobes in Jiangshan black-bone chickens. The high level of LUM in peacock green (Green and Blue groups) may affect collagen nanostructures, leading to a stronger effect of melanin-supported dermal collagen on the production of non-iridescent structural colors through coherent scattering, resulting in a bright structural blue color in Jiangshan black-bone chickens. In contrast, the low expression of LUM in dark reddish purple (Black group) reduces the reflection of non-iridescent structural colors, making the earlobe color appear almost black, similar to melanin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In mice, skin-resident type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) exhibit some ILC3-like characteristics. However, the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Here, we observed lower expression of the ILC2 master regulator GATA3 specifically in cutaneous ILC2s (cILC2s) compared with canonical ILC2s, in line with its functionally divergent role in transcriptional control in cILC2s. Decreased levels of GATA3 enabled the expansion of RORγt fate-mapped (RORγtfm+) cILC2s after postnatal days, displaying certain similarities to ILC3s. Single-cell trajectory analysis showed a sequential promotion of the RORγtfm+ cILC2 divergency by RORγt and GATA3. Notably, during hair follicle recycling, these RORγtfm+ cILC2s accumulated around the hair follicle dermal papilla (DP) region to facilitate the process. Mechanistically, we found that GATA3-mediated integrin α3β1 upregulation on RORγtfm+ cILC2s was required for their positioning around the DP. Overall, our study demonstrates a distinct regulatory role of GATA3 in cILC2s, particularly in promoting the divergence of RORγtfm+ cILC2s to facilitate hair follicle recycling. [Display omitted] • Decreased GATA3 levels allow postnatal emergence of RORγt fate-mapped cutaneous ILC2s • RORγt and GATA3 sequentially promote the terminal divergence of RORγtfm+ cILC2s • RORγtfm+ cILC2s accumulate around dermal papilla to facilitate hair follicle recycling • GATA3-controlled integrin α3β1 expression locates RORγtfm+ cILC2s around dermal papilla Cutaneous ILC2s exhibit certain ILC3-like characteristics, yet the underlying mechanism and physiological significance remain elusive. Ren et al. demonstrate that decreased GATA3 levels in them lead to a divergent RORγt fate-mapped subgroup, which accumulates around the hair follicle dermal papilla region through GATA3-controlled integrin α3β1 upregulation, thereby facilitating hair follicle recycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) system is intricately organized, with respiratory complexes forming super-assembled quaternary structures whose assembly mechanisms and physiological roles remain under investigation. Cox7a2l, also known as Scaf1, facilitates complex III and complex IV (CIII-CIV) super-assembly, enhancing energetic efficiency in various species. We examined the role of Cox7a1, another Cox7a family member, in supercomplex assembly and muscle physiology. Zebrafish lacking Cox7a1 exhibited reduced CIV 2 formation, metabolic alterations, and non-pathological muscle performance decline. Additionally, cox7a1 −/− hearts displayed a pro-regenerative metabolic profile, impacting cardiac regenerative response. The distinct phenotypic effects of cox7a1 −/− and cox7a2l −/− underscore the diverse metabolic and physiological consequences of impaired supercomplex formation, emphasizing the significance of Cox7a1 in muscle maturation within the OXPHOS system. [Display omitted] • Cox7a1 stabilizes CIV dimers • Impaired CIV dimer formation rewires skeletal and cardiac muscle metabolism • Loss of Cox7a1 impacts muscle physiology and heart regeneration • Cox7a1 and Cox7a2l loss of function lead to distinct alterations in striated muscle Complexes of the mitochondrial respiratory chain can assemble into supercomplexes (SCs). García-Poyatos et al. explore the role of Cox7a1 as a SC assembly factor and find that it controls mitochondrial respiration, influencing skeletal muscle physiology as well as cardiac injury response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon (Si) effectively promote the yield of many crops, mainly due to its ability to enhance plants resistance to stress. However, how Si helps hyperaccumulators to extract Cadmium (Cd) from soil has remained unclear. In this study, Sedum alfredii Hance (S. alfredii) was used as material to study how exogenous Si affected biomass, Cd accumulation, antioxidation, cell ultrastructure, subcellular distribution and changes in gene expression after Cd exposure. The study has shown that as Si concentration increases (1, 2 mM), the shoot biomass of plants increased by 33.1%–63.6%, the Cd accumulation increased by 31.9%–96.6%, and the chlorophyll, carotenoid content, photosynthetic gas exchange parameters significantly increased. Si reduced Pro and MDA, promoted the concentrations of SOD, CAT and POD to reduce antioxidant stress damage. In addition, Si promoted GSH and PC to chelate Cd in vacuoles, repaired damaged cell ultrastructure, improved the fixation of Cd and cell wall (especially in pectin), and reduced the toxic effects of Cd. Transcriptome analysis found that genes encoding Cd detoxification, Cd absorption and transport were up-regulated by Si supplying, including photosynthetic pathways (PSB, LHCB, PSA), antioxidant defense systems (CAT, APX, CSD, RBOH), cell wall biosynthesis such as pectinesterase (PME), chelation (GST, MT, NAS, GR), Cd absorption (Nramp3, Nramp5, ZNT) and Cd transport (HMA, PCR). Our result revealed the tentative mechanism of Si promotes Cd accumulation and enhances Cd tolerance in S. alfredii , and thereby provides a solid theoretical support for the practical use of Si fertilizer in phytoextraction. Si can increases the biomass and Cd accumulation of S. alfredii , promotes plant photosynthesis and the fixation of Cd by pectin in cell walls, and up-regulates genes involved in plant Cd absorption and transport, thereby reducing Cd poisoning and improving the efficiency of Cd enrichment in S. alfredii. [Display omitted] • Si increases plant biomass, Cd accumulation and photosynthesis. • Si alleviates the ultrastructural damage of cells, promotes the fixation of Cd by pectin in the cell wall. • Si up-regulates genes involved in plant Cd absorption and transport, promoting Cd absorption and accumulation. • Si regulates plant antioxidant enzymes and cell wall related genes to alleviates Cd toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Respiratory chambers are one of the main methods of obtaining data regarding animal energy metabolism and determine enteric methane emissions from livestock. The boom in research examining methane emissions has led to an increase in the number of facilities where such measurements can be performed. This has concerned various research groups, and emphasis has been placed on implementing a method for validating respiratory chambers according to international standards, thus ensuring that the results are traceable. This study aimed to validate the accuracy of two respiratory chambers for assessing animal energy metabolism and enteric methane emissions from livestock using international standards. The analyzers (oxygen, carbon dioxide, and methane), duct and air extraction system, and chamber were the three components used to validate the complete respiratory chamber system. The linearity and response time of the analyzers, stability of the plateau, and recovery of high-purity gases from the chambers were evaluated for the three components. The average variations in the gas measurements for the supplied reference gas were 1.77 and 1.30 % for the carbon dioxide and methane analyzers, respectively. Recovery test calculations after supplying high-purity carbon dioxide and methane into chambers revealed that the efficiency of gas recovery averages were 1.018 ± 0.0001 and 0.991 ± 0.0001 for chambers one and two, respectively. In conclusion, the respiratory chambers at the National Center of Disciplinary Research in Animal Physiology of INIFAP, Mexico designed for evaluating energy metabolism and enteric methane emissions in livestock, work with accuracy. • Open-circuit respiratory chambers as a method to estimate animal energy metabolism. • Quantification of enteric methane production of ruminants with the use of open-circuit respiratory chambers. • Measurement of greenhouse gases using open-circuit breathing chambers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impact of advanced driver-assistance systems on drivers' mental workload. Using a combination of physiological signals including ECG, EMG, EDA, EEG (af4 and fc6 channels from the theta band), and eye diameter data, this study aims to predict and categorize drivers' mental workload into low, adequate, and high levels. Data were collected from five different driving situations with varying cognitive demands. A functional linear regression model was employed for prediction, and the accuracy rate was calculated. Among the 31 tested combinations of physiological variables, 9 combinations achieved the highest accuracy result of 90%. These results highlight the potential benefits of utilizing raw physiological signal data and employing functional data analysis methods to understand and assess driver mental workload. The findings of this study have implications for the design and improvement of driver-assistance systems to optimize safety and performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depression is a common and disabling mental health disorder, which impacts hundreds of millions of people worldwide. Current diagnosis methods rely almost solely on self-report and are prone to subjectivity and biases. In recent years, computational psychiatry has employed advanced sensing technology, utilizing rich data, to train accurate algorithms to detect depression from passive, non-invasive physiological markers. Gaze-tracking is used to collect cognitive data with high temporal resolution and offers a surrogate to underlying processes such as attention distribution, making it particularly useful for classification of attention-related cognitive abnormalities, including depression. We used data from gaze-tracking while participants were engaged in sentence reading to build a classifier for depression tendency. We created sentences constructed to highlight expected attention biases in depression. We recorded gaze data during reading from a sample of 101 participants and analyzed the data as a raw time-series. We used the validated PHQ-9 questionnaire to obtain depression levels per participant. Using LSTMs (Long Short-Term Memory Artificial Neural Network) and Random Forest analysis techniques we were able to reach above chance classification (60+%) of depression tendency levels from the gaze patterns. Limitations: A replication with more participants is needed. Data was collected among undergraduate students and was conducted only in Hebrew. Individual assessment was not validated against clinical data. The results can lead to potential data-driven and accessible diagnosis tools that will support and monitor depression treatment and rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The application of bicultural stock in RAS has the potential to benefit culture efficiency. • Physiology of rainbow trout and burbot were affected by the arrangement of biculture. • Highest proportion of the burbot in the stock ensured less sediment production. • A decreasing trend of solid production suggested adaptation to cultural conditions. • Bi-cultural stocks can be applied to enhance production in RAS. Traditional monoculture systems often face challenges related to solid waste production and nutrient use. This study addresses these concerns by investigating the impact of bicultural farming of burbot (Lota lota) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) and the subsequent alteration of production of solid waste, growth and physiological status. The rationale behind incorporating burbot lies in its potential as a supplementary species to improve overall system efficiency and sustainability. The experimental groups in triplicate represented the different ratios of rainbow trout (T) and burbot (B) in the stock: T70/B30, T85/B15 and T100/B0. Burbot, although not assessed in monoculture due to its limited commercial significance, was incorporated into the study as a supplementary species, expected to enhance the nutrient utilisation through its bottom-feeding behaviour and anticipated consumption of solid waste produced by trout. After 77 days of culture, the survival rates of trout remained consistent across experimental groups, averaging over 99%, while burbot exhibited comparable survival rates despite lower cumulative survival, averaging 88%. Feed conversion ratios showed no significant differences between the groups, indicating consistent feed utilisation. A significantly higher specific growth rate (SGR) in trout was observed in group T70/B30. The SGR values of burbot were marginally low and without significant differences between groups. Among biochemical markers of blood plasma, phosphorus concentrations were significantly higher in group T70/B30 for both trout and burbot, suggesting better access to the feed for both species. Elevated antioxidant activity and evidence of oxidative stress were found for both species in intestinal tissue. The presence of burbot in stock significantly affected the production of suspended solids per gram of applied feed. Therefore, group T100/B0 demonstrated the highest solid production at multiple time points, suggesting a relationship between burbot presence and the production of suspended solids. Starting at the 9-week, the trout monoculture group exhibited significantly higher phosphorus levels in sediments compared to group T70/B30, emphasising the role of burbot in shaping sediment nutrient dynamics in RAS, such as supplementary cleaning fish. After 11 weeks, group T100/B0 displayed significantly higher values of produced suspended solids and their composition: DM, organic DM, and phosphorus content per gram of feed applied. These results provide evidence of the influence of burbot on suspended solids production and characteristics. In conclusion, this study indicates the positive effects of burbot presence on solid production and sediment nutrient composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc (Zn) is an essential micronutrient for plant growth and development, and anthocyanin is a secondary metabolite compound generally produced under stress conditions; both have benefits to human health. Rice is a staple food crop for most of the world's population, and purple rice is well known as a natural source of Zn and anthocyanins, but their stability depends upon many factors. This review focuses on the opportunity to increase Zn and anthocyanin compounds in purple rice grains via Zn and nitrogen (N) management during cultivation. Variation in grain Zn concentration and anthocyanin compounds is found among purple rice varieties, thus presenting a challenge for breeding programs aiming at high grain Zn and anthocyanin contents. Genetic engineering has successfully achieved a high-efficiency vector system comprising two regulatory genes and six structural anthocyanin-related genes driven by endosperm-specific promoters to engineer purple endosperm rice that can provide new high-anthocyanin varieties. Grain Zn and anthocyanin concentrations in rice can also be affected by environmental factors during cultivation, e.g., light, temperature, soil salinity and nutrient (fertilizer) management. Applying N and Zn fertilizer is found to influence the physiological mechanisms of Zn absorption, uptake, transport and remobilization to promote grain Zn accumulation in rice, while N application can improve anthocyanin synthesis by promoting its biosynthesis pathway via the use of phenylalanine as a precursor. In summary, there is an opportunity to improve both grain Zn and anthocyanin in purple rice by appropriate management of Zn and N fertilizers during cultivation for specific varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity-alkalinity is incipient abiotic stress that impairs plant growth and development. Rice (Oryza sativa) is a major food crop greatly affected by soil salinity and alkalinity, requiring tolerant varieties in the saline-alkali prone areas. Understanding the molecular and physiological mechanisms of saline-alkali tolerance paves the base for improving saline-alkali tolerance in rice and leads to progress in breeding. This review illustrated the physiological consequences, and molecular mechanisms especially signaling and function of regulating genes for saline-alkali tolerance in rice plants. We also discussed QTLs regarding saline-alkali tolerance accordingly and ways of deployment for improvement. More efforts are needed to identify and utilize the identified QTLs for saline-alkali tolerance in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Increasing NaCl salinity linearly decreased the plant growth. • NaCl salinity markedly decreased the chlorophyll fluorescence and photosynthesis. • Increasing salinity levels enhanced Na+and Cl- concentrations in broccoli leaves and roots. • Antioxidative activity helped in the adaptation of broccoli to mild NaCl stress. Soil salinity is one of the major concerns that pose serious threats to vegetables and other crops worldwide. The present study was carried out to identify morphological, physiological and biochemical markers that broccoli plant may use as adaptive mechanisms to cope with high NaCl stress. Broccoli plants were grown in a pot culture and exposed to NaCl salinity stress for six weeks. Five levels of NaCl; 0, 20, 40, 60, and 80 mmol L −1 were established using saline irrigation water. Increased soil salinity led to the increased Na+ and Cl– accumulation which inhibited Ca+, K +, Mg2+, NO 3 –, total P and PO 4 3– concentrations both in leaves and roots. Moreover, increased NaCl salinity decreased the plant leaf area, shoot length, root length, and shoot and root dry weights, whereas enhanced the antioxidant enzymatic activities like superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX). Leaf chlorophyll in the form of light energy conservation rate (Fv/Fm) and coefficients of photochemical quenching (qP) and (qL) were significantly affected by increasing the salinity levels. Likewise, NaCl salinity negatively affected the linear electron flow (LEF) and the activity of photosystem-II. Non-photochemical quenching (NPQt) in all stress treatments was significantly improved as compared to the control. In general, 60 mmol L −1 NaCl level was considered as a threshold for broccoli cultivation under saline irrigation. In conclusion, salt stress primarily controlled the leaf photosynthetic machinery, stimulated redox homeostasis and enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes, which enabled broccoli plants to tolerate medium level of NaCl stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Astrocytes play a critical role in brain function, but their contribution during ethanol (EtOH) consumption remains largely understudied. In light of recent findings on the heterogeneity of astrocyte physiology and gene expression, an approach with the ability to identify subtypes and capture this heterogeneity is necessary. Here, we combined measurements of calcium signaling and gene expression to define EtOHinduced astrocyte subtypes. In the absence of a demonstrated EtOH receptor, EtOH is believed to have effects on the function of many receptors and downstream biological cascades that underlie calcium responsiveness. This mechanism of EtOHinduced calcium signaling is unknown and this study provides the first step in understanding the characteristics of cells displaying these observed responses. To characterize underlying astrocyte subtypes, we assessed the correlation between calcium signaling and astrocyte gene expression signature in response to EtOH. We found that various EtOH doses increased intracellular calcium levels in a subset of astrocytes, distinguishing three cellular response types and one nonresponsive subtype as categorized by response waveform properties. Furthermore, single-cell RNA-seq analysis of astrocytes from the different response types identified type-enriched discriminatory gene expression signatures. Combining singlecell calcium responses and gene expression analysis identified specific astrocyte subgroups among astrocyte populations defined by their response to EtOH. This result provides a basis for identifying the relationship between astrocyte susceptibility to EtOH and corresponding measurable markers of calcium signaling and gene expression, which will be useful to investigate potential subgroup-specific influences of astrocytes on the physiology and pathology of EtOH exposure in the brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronary artery bifurcation lesions are frequently encountered in cardiac catheterization laboratories and are associated with more complex procedures and worse clinical outcomes than nonbifurcation lesions. Therefore, anatomical and physiological assessment of bifurcation lesions before, during, and after percutaneous coronary intervention is of paramount clinical importance. Physiological assessment can help interventionalists appreciate the hemodynamic significance of coronary artery disease and guide ischemia-directed revascularization. However, it is important to understand that the physiological approach for bifurcation disease is more important than simply using physiological indexes for its assessment. This joint consensus document by the Korean, Japanese, and European bifurcation clubs presents the concept of a physiological approach for coronary bifurcation lesions, as well as current knowledge, practical tips, pitfalls, and future directions of applying physiological indexes in bifurcation percutaneous coronary intervention. This document aims to guide interventionalists in performing appropriate physiology-based assessments and treatment decisions for coronary bifurcation lesions. [Display omitted] • Coronary bifurcation lesions are one of complex lesion subsets. • Physiological approach can define functional and clinical relevance of bifurcation lesions. • Physiology-guided PCI can reduce unnecessary procedures and related complications. • The novel techniques are expected to provide a better management strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Agro-industrial wastes of olive and fig triggered an intricate defense system in lettuce. • Their allelochemicals can be specific in the physiological and biochemical actions. • Implicated enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants in mitigating oxidative stress. • Their bioherbicidal mechanisms of action were reported for the first time. Agro-industrial wastes of Ficus carica L. and Olea europaea L. represent great sources of bioactive phenolic compounds that would be actively involved in sustainable development. Most of these wastes possess a valuable source of phytotoxic compounds that would be used as potential bioherbicides, but their function and mechanisms of action in cultivated crops remain far to be understood. In this study, we investigate the biochemical and physiological mechanisms of action of fig and olive allelochemicals extracts in lettuce as a model plant for weed species studies. Results revealed that these allelochemicals triggered an oxidative stress through cell membrane damage in lettuce roots and leaves, which was mitigated by various adaptive responses. Therefore, an intricate defense system was implicated by the increase of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants in lettuce tissues. This adaptive physiological response was highly correlated with the regulation of the phenylpropanoid pathway through the distinguished activation of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase by 98% and phenolic accumulation by 85% under olive and fig leaves aqueous extracts. The outcomes of this study will help understanding the response of cultivated crop to fig and olive phenolic compounds that can be selective in their actions, or the plants can be selective in their responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corneal nerve wounding often causes abnormalities in the cornea and even blindness in severe cases. In this study, we construct a dorsal root ganglion-corneal stromal cell (DRG-CSC, DS) co-culture 3D model to explore the mechanism of corneal nerve regeneration. Firstly, this model consists of DRG collagen grafts sandwiched by orthogonally stacked and orderly arranged CSC-laden plastic compressed collagen. Nerve bundles extend into the entire corneal stroma within 14 days, and they also have orthogonal patterns. This nerve prevents CSCs from apoptosis in the serum withdrawal medium. The conditioned medium (CM) for CSCs in collagen scaffolds contains NT-3, IL-6, and other factors. Among them, NT-3 notably promotes the activation of ERK-CREB in the DRG, leading to the growth of nerve bundles, and IL-6 induces the upregulation of anti-apoptotic genes. Then, LM22B-10, an activator of the NT-3 receptor TrkB/TrkC, can also activate ERK-CREB to enhance nerve growth. After administering LM22B-10 eye drops to regular and diabetic mice with corneal wounding, LM22B-10 significantly improves the healing speed of the corneal epithelium, corneal sensitivity, and corneal nerve density. Overall, the DS co-culture model provides a promising platform and tools for the exploration of corneal physiological and pathological mechanisms, as well as the verification of drug effects in vitro. Meanwhile, we confirm that LM22B-10, as a non-peptide small molecule, has future potential in nerve wound repair. The cornea accounts for most of the refractive power of the eye. Corneal nerves play an important role in maintaining corneal homeostasis. Once the corneal nerves are damaged, the corneal epithelium and stroma develop lesions. However, the mechanism of the interaction between corneal nerves and corneal cells is still not fully understood. Here, we construct a corneal stroma-nerve co-culture in vitro model and reveal that NT-3 expressed by stromal cells promotes nerve growth by activating the ERK-CREB pathway in nerves. LM22B-10, an activator of NT-3 receptors, can also induce nerve growth in vitro. Moreover, it is used as eye drops to enhance corneal epithelial wound healing, corneal nerve sensitivity and density of nerve plexus in corneal nerve wounding model in vivo. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine what patient and embryo characteristics are correlated with the developmental potential of the peri-implantation embryo.Design: Retrospective study.Setting: Research laboratory.Patients: Six hundred fifty-one cryopreserved human blastocysts donated for research with informed patient consent.Interventions: Not applicable.Main Outcome Measures: Blastocyst attachment to fibronectin-coated plates, trophectoderm outgrowth area, epiblast cell number, total cell number, human chorionic gonadotropin secretion.Results: Patients' body mass index, age, follicle-stimulating hormone: luteinizing hormone ratio on menstrual cycle day 3, antral follicle count on menstrual cycle day 3, antimüllerian hormone level on menstrual cycle day 3, and blastocyst morphological grade were correlated with peri-implantation development outcomes. After controlling for good-quality morphological grades, blastocysts from patients of advanced maternal age developed fewer epiblast cells than blastocysts from younger patients.Conclusions: Extended embryo culture during the peri-implantation period mirrors several disparities in fertility treatment outcome that we see clinically, including those from patients with advanced maternal age, high body mass index, and low ovarian reserve and from embryos with lower-quality morphological grades. This model system may be useful by providing an alternative or more sensitive endpoint assessment in studying patient, clinical, or laboratory factors that may influence preimplantation embryo developmental potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Munich Valsalva Implantation Technique (MuVIT) is a non-invasive alternative which uses a modified Valsalva manoeuvre to reduce cardiac output (CO). The aim of this study was to evaluate the technical success and safety of MuVIT in standard and complex endovascular thoracic aneurysm repair (TEVAR). This was a retrospective single centre cohort study. Patients were included who underwent CO reduction with MuVIT between March 2020 and February 2021 for standard and fenestrated/branched TEVAR (fbTEVAR). The target systolic blood pressure (SBP) reduction was used as an indicator of CO reduction. The aim of the SBP reduction was 50% in patients undergoing proximal sealing in Ishimaru zones 0–1 (Group 1), and 30% in patients with sealing in Ishimaru zones 2–3 (Group 2). Efficacy outcomes included MuVIT technical success and procedural technical success. Safety outcomes included MuVIT and procedural related complications in the first 30 days. During the study period 52 cases were screened for MuVIT. Of these, 40 patients (77%) underwent procedures that were performed under MuVIT. Exclusion reasons were local anaesthesia (n = 9); pulmonary contraindications (n = 2), and poor heart pump function (n = 1). Fifteen patients (37.5%) underwent bTEVAR, three patients (7.5%) fTEVAR, and 22 patients (55%) standard TEVAR. Twenty nine (72.5%) procedures were elective, seven (17.5%) were urgent, and four (10%) were as an emergency. Successful proximal endograft deployment under MuVIT was 100%. The target SBP reduction was achieved in 95% (Group 1: 89.5%, Group 2: 100%), with an overall mean reduction of 46% (Group 1: 55%, Group 2: 40%). The 30 day mortality was 7.5%, and was not MuVIT related. Two patients with COPD Gold III/IV developed respiratory complications. MuVIT is a safe and effective manoeuvre for CO reduction during aortic arch TEVAR. However, careful patient selection is required and potential adverse effects on patients with severe COPD needs further evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The combined stress of drought and salt on sweet sorghum seedlings are severer than that of the single drought or salt stress. • Sweet sorghum seedlings show different regulation mechanisms to the three stresses at transcriptional level. • The same regulation mechanisms to the three stresses is by down-regulating photosynthesis, increasing antioxidant enzyme activity and increasing proline content. • Sweet sorghum adapts to drought stress through trehalose biosynthesis regulation. • Sweet sorghum resists salinity and combined stresses by regulating phytohormone signaling. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the physiological, biochemical and transcriptomic effects of single and combined drought and salinity stress on sweet sorghum seedlings in order to reveal the regulatory mechanism in sweet sorghum to abiotic stresses. This study was carried out under controlled conditions in a completely random design with factorial arrangements. Treatments included 4 levels (Control, Drought, Salt, Drought + Salt). Results indicated that the growth and photosynthesis of sweet sorghum seedlings were inhibited under the three examined stresses, especially the combined treatment had the strongest inhibitory effect. Large number of differently expressed genes (DEGs) involved in photosynthesis, hormone signaling regulation, trehalose metabolism, proline metabolism and the antioxidant system were identified by GO and KEGG enrichment analysis. These results suggested that sweet sorghum does not inconsistently respond to drought, salinity and combined treatment at physiological and transcriptional level. Sweet sorghum resists three stresses together by down-regulating photosynthesis, increasing antioxidant enzyme activity and increasing proline content, adapts to drought stress through trehalose biosynthesis and resists salinity and combined treatment by regulating phytohormone signaling. This research provides more insights into the regulatory mechanism in sweet sorghum to abiotic stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Nike Vaporfly 4% (VP4) and Saucony Endorphin lightweight racing flats improved running economy in male recreational runners vs. their habitual running footwear. • The 3-km time-trial times were faster in VP4 than Saucony Endorphin lightweight racing flats and habitual running footwear. • The VP4 meaningfully improved economy and time-trial times in recreational runners. • However, individual responses were evident and did not appear driven by perceptions. • This study adds to VP4 research, which had involved high-caliber runners only to date. We compared running economy (RE) and 3-km time-trial (TT) variables of runners wearing Nike Vaporfly 4% (VP4), Saucony Endorphin lightweight racing flats (FLAT), and their habitual running (OWN) footwear. Eighteen male recreational runners (age = 33.5 ± 11.9 year (mean ± SD), peak oxygen uptake (VO 2peak) = 55.8 ± 4.4 mL/kg·min) attended 4 sessions approximately 7 days apart. The first session consisted of a VO 2peak test to inform subsequent RE speeds set at 60%, 70%, and 80% of the speed eliciting VO 2peak. In subsequent sessions, treadmill RE and 3-km TTs were assessed in the 3 footwear conditions in a randomized, counterbalanced crossover design. Oxygen consumption (mL/kg·min) was less in VP4 (from 4.3% to 4.4%, p ≤ 0.002) and FLAT (from 2.7% to 3.4%, p ≤ 0.092) vs. OWN across intensities, with a non-significant difference between VP4 and FLAT (1.0%–1.7%, p ≥ 0.292). Findings related to energy cost (W/kg) and energetics cost of transport (J/kg·m) were comparable. VP4 3-km TT performance (11:07.6 ± 0:56.6 mm:ss) was enhanced vs. OWN by 16.6 s (2.4%, p = 0.005) and vs. FLAT by 13.0 s (1.8%, p = 0.032). The 3-km times between OWN and FLAT (0.5%, p = 0.747) were similar. Most runners (n = 11, 61%) ran their fastest TT in VP4. Overall, VP4 improved laboratory-based RE measures in male recreational runners at relative speeds compared to OWN, but the RE improvements in VP4 were not significant vs. FLAT. More runners exhibited better treadmill TT performances in VP4 (61%) vs. FLAT (22%) and OWN (17%). The variability in RE (–10.3% to 13.3%) and TT (–4.7% to 9.3%) improvements suggests that responses to different types of shoes are individualized and warrant further investigation. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]