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Mutations in ubiquitously expressed presenilin genes (PSENs) lead to early-onset familial Alzheimer's disease (FAD), but patients carrying the mutation also suffer from heart diseases. To elucidate the cardiac myocyte specific effects of PSEN ΔE9, we studied cardiomyocytes derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC-CMs) from patients carrying AD-causing PSEN1 exon 9 deletion (PSEN1 ΔE9). When compared with their isogenic controls, PSEN1 ΔE9 cardiomyocytes showed increased sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ leak that was resistant to blockage of ryanodine receptors (RyRs) by tetracaine or inositol-3-reseceptors (IP 3 Rs) by 2-ABP. The SR Ca2+ leak did not affect electrophysiological properties of the hiPSC-CMs, but according to experiments and in silico simulations the leak induces a diastolic buildup of [Ca2+] near the perinuclear SR and reduces the releasable Ca2+ during systole. This demonstrates that PSEN1 ΔE9 induced SR Ca2+ leak has specific effects in iPSC-CMs, reflecting their unique structural and calcium signaling features. The results shed light on the physiological and pathological mechanisms of PSEN1 in cardiac myocytes and explain the intricacies of comorbidity associated with AD-causing mutations in PSEN1. [Display omitted] • PSEN1 ΔE9 mutation causes sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ leak in hiPSC-cardiomyocytes. • Increased Ca2+-leak causes a diastolic buildup of [Ca2+] near the perinuclear SR. • SR Ca2+-leak reduces the releasable Ca2+ during systole. • The leak does not affect electrical properties of the hiPSC-cardiomyocytes. • In silico simulations reveal complex autoregulation of SR Ca2+ loading in iPSC-CMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Inflammation is a pathological characteristic in some first-episode psychosis cohorts. • Negative symptoms have been consistently linked with inflammatory abnormalities. • 6-weeks of exercise significantly reduced IL-6 and Th-cell ratio in psychosis. • Regular exercise training caused a reduction in negative symptomology. • Exercise may be useful as adjunct therapy for individuals experiencing psychosis. First-Episode Psychosis (FEP) is a devastating mental health condition that commonly emerges during early adulthood, and is characterised by a disconnect in perceptions of reality. Current evidence suggests that inflammation and perturbed immune responses are involved in the pathology of FEP and may be associated specifically with negative symptoms. Exercise training is a potent anti-inflammatory stimulus that can reduce persistent inflammation, and can improve mood profiles in general populations. Therefore, exercise may represent a novel adjunct therapy for FEP. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of exercise on biomarkers of inflammation, negative symptoms of psychosis, and physiological health markers in FEP. Seventeen young males (26.67 ± 6.64 years) were recruited from Birmingham Early Intervention in Psychosis Services and randomised to a 6-week exercise programme consisting of two-to-three sessions per week that targeted 60–70 % heart-rate max (HRMax), or a treatment as usual (TAU) condition. Immune T-helper (Th-) cell phenotypes and cytokines, symptom severity, functional wellbeing, and cognition were assessed before and after 6-weeks of regular exercise. Participants in the exercise group (n = 10) achieved 81.11 % attendance to the intervention, with an average exercise intensity of 67.54 % ± 7.75 % HRMax. This led to favourable changes in immune cell phenotypes, and a significant reduction in the Th1:Th2 ratio (−3.86 %) compared to the TAU group (p = 0.014). After the exercise intervention, there was also a significant reduction in plasma IL-6 concentration (–22.17 %) when compared to the TAU group (p = 0.006). IL-8, and IL-10 did not show statistically significant differences between the groups after exercise. Symptomatically, there was a significant reduction in negative symptoms after exercise (−13.54 %, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, (PANSS) Negative) when compared to the TAU group (p = 0.008). There were no significant change in positive or general symptoms, functional outcomes, or cognition (all p > 0.05). Regular moderate-to-vigorous physical activity is feasible and attainable in clinical populations. Exercise represents a physiological tool that is capable of causing significant inflammatory biomarker change and concomitant symptom improvements in FEP cohorts, and may be useful for treatment of symptom profiles that are not targeted by currently prescribed antipsychotic medication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Administration of bacterial mimic (LPS) to male mice induced transgenerational impacts on offspring phenotypes. • F1 offspring and F2 grand-offspring of LPS challenged males displayed sexually dimorphic behavioral changes. • The behavioral changes in offspring, induced by paternal LPS, include affective endophenotypes relevant to anxiety and depressive disorders. • F2 grand-offspring, but not F1 offspring, of LPS challenged males showed enhanced immune responses. • LPS challenge changed F0 (paternal) sperm small RNA profiles, identifying candidate mediators of epigenetic inheritance. Paternal pre-conceptual exposures, including stress, diet, substance abuse, parasite infection, and viral immune activation via Poly I:C, have been reported to influence the brains and behavior of offspring through sperm epigenetic changes. However, the effects of paternal (F0) pre-conceptual exposure to bacterial-induced immune activation on the behavior and physiology of F1 and F2 generations remain unexplored. We examined this using C57BL/6J mice. Eight-week-old males (F0) received a single intraperitoneal injection of the bacterial mimetic lipopolysaccharide (LPS: 5 mg/kg) or 0.9 % saline (vehicle control) before mating with naïve females at four weeks post-injection. Comprehensive behavioral assessments were conducted to investigate anxiety, social behaviors, depressive-like behaviors and cognition in both the F1 and F2 generations within the age range of 8 to 14 weeks. Results demonstrated that only female offspring of LPS-exposed fathers exhibited reduced anxiety levels in the light/dark box, large open field, and novelty-suppressed feeding test. These F1 female offspring also exhibited heightened sociability in the 3-chambered social interaction test and a reduced preference for saccharin in the saccharin preference test. Additionally, the F1 male offspring of LPS-challenged males demonstrated an increased total distance traveled in the light/dark box and a longer distance covered in the light zone. They also exhibited diminished preference for social novelty in the 3-chambered social interaction test and an elevated novel arm preference index in the Y-maze. In the F2 generation, male descendants of LPS-treated fathers showed reduced latency to feed in the novelty-suppressed feeding test. Additionally, the F2 generation of LPS-challenged fathers, but not the F1 generation, displayed enhanced immune response in both sexes after an acute LPS immune challenge (5 mg/kg). Analysis of sperm small noncoding RNA profiles from LPS-treated F0 mice revealed significant changes at 4 weeks after administration of LPS. These changes included three microRNAs, eight PIWI-interacting RNAs, and two transfer RNAs, exhibiting significant upregulation (mmu-miR-146a-5p, mmu-piR-27082 and mmu-piR-29102) or downregulation (mmu-miR-5110, mmu-miR-467e-3p, mmu-piR-22583, mmu-piR-23548, mmu-piR-36341, mmu-piR-50293, mmu-piR-16583, mmu-piR-36507, Mus_musculus_tRNA-Ile-AAT-2-1 and Mus_musculus_tRNA-Tyr-GTA-1-1). Additionally, we detected 52 upregulated small noncoding RNAs (including 9 miRNAs, 41 piRNAs, and 2 tRNAs) and 7 downregulated small noncoding RNAs (3 miRNAs, 3 piRNAs, and 1 tRNA) in the sperm of F1 offspring from LPS-treated males. These findings provide compelling evidence for the involvement of epigenetic mechanisms in the modulation of brain function and immunity, and associated behavioral and immunological traits, across generations, in response to bacterial infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Thermo-transformation of gypsum into anhydrous Godanti Bhasma (GB) induced massive cytoplasmic vacuolization without causing cell cytotoxicity. • The parent gypsum particle does not induce cellular uptake and cytoplasmic vacuolation in cells. • All the sequential cellular events of phagocytosis were clearly observed microscopically. • GB particles can be used as a smart biocompatible particle for phagocytosis assay development in animal cells. Phagocytosis is an essential physiological mechanism; its impairment is associated with many diseases. A highly smart particle is required for understanding detailed sequential cellular events in phagocytosis. Recently, we identified an Indian traditional medicine named Godanti Bhasma (GB), a bioactive calcium sulfate particle prepared by thermo-transformation of gypsum. Thermal processing of the gypsum transforms its native physicochemical properties by removing water molecules into the anhydrous GB, which was confirmed by Raman and FT-IR spectroscopy. GB particle showed a 0.5–5 µm size range and a neutral surface charge. Exposure of mammalian cells to GB particles showed a rapid cellular uptake through phagocytosis and induced massive cytoplasmic vacuolation in cells. Interestingly, no cellular uptake and cytoplasmic vacuolation were observed with the parent gypsum particle. The presence of the GB particles in intra-vacuolar space was confirmed using FESEM coupled with EDX. Flow cytometry analysis and live tracking of GB-treated cells showed particle internalization, vacuole formation, particle dissolution, and later vacuolar turnover. Quantification of GB-induced vacuolation was done using neutral red uptake assay in cells. Treatment of lysosomal inhibitors (BFA1 or CQ) with GB could not induce vacuolation, suggesting the requirement of an acidic environment for the vacuolation. In the mimicking experiment, GB particle dissolution in acidic cell-free solution suggested that degradation of GB occurs by acidic pH inside the cell vacuole. Vacuole formation generally accompanies with cell death, whereas GB-induced massive vacuolation does not cause cell death. Moreover, the cell divides and proliferates with the vacuolar process, intra-vacuolar cargo degradation, and eventually vacuolar turnover. Taken together, the sequential cellular events in this study suggest that GB can be used as a smart particle for phagocytosis assay development in animal cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number and quality of social bonds can have major consequences for fitness. For example, in socially monogamous species with biparental care, pair bond quality has been linked to the latency to breed as well as the number and survival of offspring. Given these benefits, what mechanisms prevent some individuals from forming strong pair bonds? Markers of physiological stress and ageing, such as oxidative stress and telomere length, might mediate individual differences in behavioural performance. However, the possibility that physiological stress could also constrain the strength of the pair bond has rarely been investigated. We show that in captive colonies of the socially monogamous, gregarious zebra finch, Taeniopygia guttata , individuals with higher levels of plasma lipid oxidative damage formed weaker pair bonds. This effect was sex specific: while males with more oxidative damage spent less time in bodily contact with their prospective breeding partners, no such link was found in females. Although females experienced higher absolute levels of plasma oxidative damage, pair bond investment may have been more constrained in males due to the costly expression of their sexually selected traits. Pair bond strength was not associated with levels of the key antioxidant glutathione or with telomere length. Individuals' ability to form strong pair bonds may thus be constrained by their levels of oxidative damage, with potential downstream effects on fitness. • Strong pair bonds are beneficial, but individuals vary in bond strength. • Physiological stress and somatic ageing may constrain pair bond strength. • Zebra finches were blood-sampled and social associations automatically tracked. • Male, but not female, birds with more oxidative damage formed weaker pair bonds. • Physiological damage can constrain behavioural performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The parasympathetic nervous system via the vagus nerve exerts profound influence over the heart. Together with the sympathetic nervous system, the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for fine-tuned regulation of all aspects of cardiovascular function, including heart rate, rhythm, contractility, and blood pressure. In this review, we highlight vagal efferent and afferent innervation of the heart, with a focus on insights from comparative biology and advances in understanding the molecular and genetic diversity of vagal neurons, as well as interoception, parasympathetic dysfunction in heart disease, and the therapeutic potential of targeting the parasympathetic nervous system in cardiovascular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been widespread international implementation of duration-hour restrictions to prevent surgical resident burnout and promote patient safety and wellbeing of doctors. A variety of Extended-Duration Work Shifts (EDWS) have been implemented, with a variety of studies examining the effect of shift systems on both surgical performance and the stress response unestablished in the literature. This was a systematic review evaluating the impact of extended working hours on surgical performance, cognitive impairment, and physiological stress responses. The review used PubMed, Ovid Medline, Embase, and Google Scholar search engines between September and October 2021 in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Filters including studies carried out after 2002 and published in the English language were applied. In total, 30 studies were included for analysis. General surgery was the most commonly studied rotation, with Neurosurgical, Orthopedic, and ear, nose and throat specialties also included. The majority of studies found no difference or a significant improvement in post-EDWS on simulated performance. EDWS appeared to have the greatest impact on physiological stress markers in junior surgical trainees. Experience appears to confer a protective element in the postcall period, with preservation of skill demonstrated. More experienced clinicians yielded lower levels of physiological markers of stress, although variability in hierarchical workload should be considered. Heterogeneity of findings across physiological, cognitive, and psychomotor assessments highlights the need for robust research on the optimum shift pattern prevents worker burnout and promotes patient safety. Future research to evaluate correlation between stress, on-call workload, and performance in the postcall period is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorofenidone (AKF-PD) is a novel pyridone derivative that inhibits fibrosis and inflammation in many tissues. Accordingly, it has been effective in disease models, such as liver failure, nephropathy, and pulmonary fibrosis. However, its potential role in cardiac physiology and pathology has yet to be elucidated. Thus, this paper investigated a possible functional impact of AKF-PD on adult rat cardiac myocytes. Cells were kept in culture for 1–2 days under either control conditions or the presence of AKF-PD (500 μM). They were next examined concerning cell contractility, intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis, and activity of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels. Remarkably, AKF-PD enhanced the percentage of cell shortening and rates of both contraction and relaxation by nearly 100%. A stimulus in Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release (CICR) most likely accounts for these effects because AKF-PD also increased the magnitude of electrically evoked Ca2+ transients. Of note, the compound did not alter the peak value of caffeine-elicited Ca2+ transients, indicating stimulation of CICR at constant sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ load. Since CICR is triggered by the entry of Ca2+ through Ca V 1.2 (I Ca), a possible effect on these Ca2+ channels was also investigated. AKF-PD increased the magnitude of both I Ca and maximal macroscopic Ca2+ conductance (G max) by about 50%. However, no differences were found in either voltage dependence of inactivation or the amount of maximal immobilization-resistant charge movement (Q max). Thus, the effect on I Ca could be explained by a higher channel's open probability (P o) rather than a greater abundance of channel proteins. Additional data indicate that AKF-PD reduces the rate of Ca2+ extrusion in the presence of caffeine, suggesting inhibition of the Na/Ca exchanger. Overall, these results indicate that AKF-PD upregulates the P o of Ca V 1.2 and then sequentially enhances I Ca , CICR, and contractility. Therefore, the novel compound is also a candidate to be tested in cardiac disease models. • Fluorofenidone (AKF-PF) is a novel anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory compound. • Here, its possible influence on the physiology of cardiac myocytes was assessed. • AKF-PF exerted a chronic upregulation of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (Ca V 1.2). • The latter effect, in turn, enhances intracellular Ca2+ release and contractility. • These findings greatly improve the potential of AKF-PF as a cardiovascular agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The natural environment of plants comprises a complex set of various abiotic stresses and their capability to react and survive under this anticipated changing climate is highly flexible and involves a series of balanced interactions between signaling molecules where nitric oxide becomes a crucial component. In this article, we focussed on the role of nitric oxide (NO) in various signal transduction pathways of plants and its positive impact on maintaining cellular homeostasis under various abiotic stresses. Besides this, the recent data on interactions of NO with various phytohormones to control physiological and biochemical processes to attain abiotic stress tolerance have also been considered. These crosstalks modulate the plant's defense mechanism and help in alleviating the negative impact of stress. While focusing on the diverse functions of NO, an effort has been made to explore the functions of NO-mediated post-translational modifications, such as the N-end rule pathway, tyrosine nitration, and S-nitrosylation which revealed the exact mechanism and characterization of proteins that modify various metabolic processes in stressed conditions. Considering all of these factors, the present review emphasizes the role of NO and its interlinking with various phytohormones in maintaining developmental processes in plants, specifically under unfavorable environments. [Display omitted] • Generative mechanism and physiological functioning of NO in plants. • Participation of NO in response mechanisms of plants under different abiotic stress. • Deciphering communicative responses between different phytohormones and NO during abiotic stress. • S-nitrosylation, tyrosine nitration, and N-end rule mechanism are the reliable footprints of NO-mediated molecular modifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dendritic cells (DCs) are crucial mediators that bridge the innate and adaptive immune responses. Cellular rewiring of metabolism is an emerging regulator of the activation, migration, and functional specialization of DC subsets in specific microenvironments and immunological conditions. DCs undergo metabolic adaptation to exert immunogenic or tolerogenic effects in different contexts. Also, beyond their intracellular metabolic and signaling roles, metabolites and nutrients mediate the intercellular crosstalk between DCs and other cell types, and such crosstalk orchestrates DC function and immune responses. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the metabolic regulation of DC biology in various contexts and summarize the current understanding of such regulation in directing immune homeostasis and inflammation, specifically with respect to infections, autoimmunity, tolerance, cancer, metabolic diseases, and crosstalk with gut microbes. Understanding context-specific metabolic alterations in DCs may identify mechanisms for physiological and pathological functions of DCs and yield potential opportunities for therapeutic targeting of DC metabolism in many diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the pilot GWAS of children obesity, DNAJC6 gene was found as a regulator for resting metabolic rate (RMR) and obesity in children aged 8–9 years. To investigate whether DNAJC6 gene regulated obesity and energy metabolism, the physiological mechanisms during adipogenesis of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes were confirmed after DNAJC6 gene was overexpressed or inhibited. Overexpressing DNAJC6 gene maintained a 3T3-L1 preadipocyte status during cell differentiation (MTT, ORO, DAPI/BODIPY). It suppressed adipogenesis and adipokine production (leptin, adiponectin), insulin signaling with IRS-GLUT4 system (RT-PCR, Western blotting), and mitochondrial function (Mito Stress Test). DNAJC6 overexpressed cells inhibited mTOR expression, but maintained LC3 expression at a high level, indicating that autophagy occurred and energy was obtained. However, when DNAJC6 gene was inhibited, fat synthesis factor was highly expressed during differentiation (PPARr, C/EBPa, aP2, etc) and the intracellular stress level increased accordingly, which affected the reduction of reserve respiratory capacity during mitochondrial respiration. Our study confirmed gene regulation of DNAJC6, overexpression or inhibition, affects adipogenesis with energy metabolism and mitochondrial functions. This basic data can be used for clinic obesity studies to control an energy imbalance. [Display omitted] • DNAJC6 was screened as RMR related obese gene in the GWAS pilot for children obesity. • Overexpressing DNAJC6 genes suppressed adipogenesis, adipokine production, insulin signaling, and mitochondrial function. • Inhibiting the DNAJC6 gene increased adipogenesis and the intracellular stress levels during 3T3-L1 differentiation. • DNAJC6 overexpression or inhibition regulated adipogenesis with energy metabolism and mitochondrial function change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• People detect subtle facial cues of natural, acute illness. • Sick faces are rated as less healthy, more dangerous, and more likely to be avoided. • Shorter looks and more pupil dilation to sick faces suggest threat detection. • Behaviors correlate with face health suggesting fine-tuned sensitivity. • The eyes–which received the greatest differential attention–may provide health cues. The capacity to rapidly detect and avoid sick people may be adaptive. Given that faces are reliably available, as well as rapidly detected and processed, they may provide health information that influences social interaction. Prior studies used faces that were manipulated to appear sick (e.g., editing photos, inducing inflammatory response); however, responses to naturally sick faces remain largely unexplored. We tested whether adults detected subtle cues of genuine, acute, potentially contagious illness in face photos compared to the same individuals when healthy. We tracked illness symptoms and severity with the Sickness Questionnaire and Common Cold Questionnaire. We also checked that sick and healthy photos were matched on low-level features. We found that participants (N = 109) rated sick faces, compared to healthy faces, as sicker, more dangerous, and eliciting more unpleasant feelings. Participants (N = 90) rated sick faces as more likely to be avoided, more tired, and more negative in expression than healthy faces. In a passive-viewing eye-tracking task, participants (N = 50) looked longer at healthy than sick faces, especially the eye region, suggesting people may be more drawn to healthy conspecifics. When making approach-avoidance decisions, participants (N = 112) had greater pupil dilation to sick than healthy faces, and more pupil dilation was associated with greater avoidance, suggesting elevated arousal to threat. Across all experiments, participants' behaviors correlated with the degree of sickness, as reported by the face donors, suggesting a nuanced, fine-tuned sensitivity. Together, these findings suggest that humans may detect subtle threats of contagion from sick faces, which may facilitate illness avoidance. By better understanding how humans naturally avoid illness in conspecifics, we may identify what information is used and ultimately improve public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The social environment can affect animal physiology, with important health implications. • How the social environment changes brain responses to an infection is not known. • We tested the effect of the social environment on neural molecular responses to an inflammatory challenge. • Being exposed to novel females muted neural immune responses in male zebra finches. • Acute changes to the social environment drastically affect how the brain responds to an infection. Sick animals display drastic changes in their behavioral patterns, including decreased activity, decreased food and water intake, and decreased interest in social interactions. These behaviors, collectively called "sickness behaviors", can be socially modulated. For example, when provided with mating opportunities, males of several species show reduced sickness behaviors. While the behavior is known to change, how the social environment affects neural molecular responses to sickness is not known. Here, we used a species, the zebra finch, Taeniopygia guttata , where males have been shown to decrease sickness behaviors when presented with novel females. Using this paradigm, we obtained samples from three brain regions (the hypothalamus, the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, and the nucleus taeniae) from lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or control treated males housed under four different social environments. Manipulation of the social environment rapidly changed the strength and co-expression patterns of the neural molecular responses to the immune challenge in all brain regions tested, therefore suggesting that the social environment plays a significant role in determining the neural responses to an infection. In particular, brains of males paired with a novel female showed muted immune responses to LPS, as well as altered synaptic signaling. Neural metabolic activity in response to the LPS challenge was also affected by the social environment. Our results provide new insights into the effects of the social environment on brain responses to an infection, thereby improving our understanding of how the social environment can affect health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adult females and males of most species differ in many aspects of their morphology, physiology and behavior, in response to sex-specific selective pressures that maximize fitness. While we have an increasingly good understanding of the genetic mechanisms that initiate these differences, the sex-specific developmental trajectories that generate them are much less well understood. Here we review recent advances in the sex-specific regulation of development focusing on two models where this development is increasingly well understood: Sexual dimorphism of body size in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster and sexual dimorphism of horns in the horned beetle Onthophagus taurus. Because growth and development are also supported by metabolism, the regulation of sex-specific metabolism during and after development is an important aspect of the generation of female and male phenotypes. Hitherto, the study of sex-specific development has largely been independent of the study of sex-specific metabolism. Nevertheless, as we discuss in this review, recent research has begun to reveal considerable overlap in the cellular and physiological mechanisms that regulate sex-specific development and metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Critical windows exist: microbiota depletion in early life has enduring effects on the gut microbiota. • Early-life microbiota disruption induces subtle changes in circulating immune cells. • Evidence of sex and time-dependent effects on myelin-related gene expression. • Microglial morphology in the basolateral amygdala is altered by early-life microbiota disruption. • Effects on anxiety-like and compulsive behaviours occur in a sex- and time-dependent manner. Numerous studies have emphasised the importance of the gut microbiota during early life and its role in modulating neurodevelopment and behaviour. Epidemiological studies have shown that early-life antibiotic exposure can increase an individual's risk of developing immune and metabolic diseases. Moreover, preclinical studies have shown that long-term antibiotic-induced microbial disruption in early life can have enduring effects on physiology, brain function and behaviour. However, these studies have not investigated the impact of targeted antibiotic-induced microbiota depletion during critical developmental windows and how this may be related to neurodevelopmental outcomes. Here, we addressed this gap by administering a broad-spectrum oral antibiotic cocktail (ampicillin, gentamicin, vancomycin, and imipenem) to mice during one of three putative critical windows: the postnatal (PN; P2-9), pre-weaning (PreWean; P12-18), or post-weaning (Wean; P21-27) developmental periods and assessed the effects on physiology and behaviour in later life. Our results demonstrate that targeted microbiota disruption during early life has enduring effects into adolescence on the structure and function of the caecal microbiome, especially for antibiotic exposure during the weaning period. Further, we show that microbial disruption in early life selectively alters circulating immune cells and modifies neurophysiology in adolescence, including altered myelin-related gene expression in the prefrontal cortex and altered microglial morphology in the basolateral amygdala. We also observed sex and time-dependent effects of microbiota depletion on anxiety-related behavioural outcomes in adolescence and adulthood. Antibiotic-induced microbial disruption had limited and subtle effects on social behaviour and did not have any significant effects on depressive-like behaviour, short-term working, or recognition memory. Overall, this study highlights the importance of the gut microbiota during critical windows of development and the subtle but long-term effects that microbiota-targeted perturbations can have on brain physiology and behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Maternal immune activation (MIA) elicits an inflammatory transcriptional response at the maternal-fetal interface (MFI). • Baseline sex differences in the MFI transcriptome are dampened after resolution of the MIA inflammatory response. • The MFI response to MIA is reshaped when combined with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) treatment. • Offspring neurobiology is impacted by MIA and SSRI exposure potentiates the embryonic brain response to MIA. Perturbations to the in utero environment can dramatically change the trajectory of offspring neurodevelopment. Insults commonly encountered in modern human life such as infection, toxins, high-fat diet, prescription medications, and others are increasingly linked to behavioral alterations in prenatally-exposed offspring. While appreciation is expanding for the potential consequence that these triggers can have on embryo development, there is a paucity of information concerning how the crucial maternal-fetal interface (MFI) responds to these various insults and how it may relate to changes in offspring neurodevelopment. Here, we found that the MFI responds both to an inflammatory state and altered serotonergic tone in pregnant mice. Maternal immune activation (MIA) triggered an acute inflammatory response in the MFI dominated by interferon signaling that came at the expense of ordinary development-related transcriptional programs. The major MFI compartments, the decidua and the placenta, each responded in distinct manners to MIA. MFIs exposed to MIA were also found to have disrupted sex-specific gene expression and heightened serotonin levels. We found that offspring exposed to MIA had sex-biased behavioral changes and that microglia were not transcriptionally impacted. Moreover, the combination of maternal inflammation in the presence of pharmacologic inhibition of serotonin reuptake further transformed MFI physiology and offspring neurobiology, impacting immune and serotonin signaling pathways alike. In all, these findings highlight the complexities of evaluating diverse environmental impacts on placental physiology and neurodevelopment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the nutritional ecology of honey bees (Apis mellifera), one of the most important and best-studied pollinators, requires an integrative understanding that spans the physiology of individual bees, colony-level dynamics, and environmental factors. In this review, we provide an overview of the factors affecting honey bee nutrition across these levels of organization with particular emphasis on how environmental threats (climate change, soil degradation, landscape simplification, land use change, and habitat degradation) affect honey bees and colonies. We suggest that each of these environmental threats works to further constrain nutritional availability for honey bees. We highlight future areas of study for nutritional ecology and environmental threats, including particularly wicked problems (issues that are extremely complex to solve given incomplete information and interconnected nature) such as climate change, as an area of emphasis for honey bee conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The IRE1α-XBP1s signaling branch of the unfolded protein response is a well-characterized survival pathway that allows cells to adapt to and resolve endoplasmic reticulum stress. Recent data has broadened our understanding of IRE1α-XBP1s signaling beyond a stress response and revealed a physiological mechanism required for the differentiation and maturation of a wide variety of cell types. Here we provide evidence that the IRE1α-XBP1s signaling pathway is required for the proliferation and maturation of basal keratinocytes in the mouse tongue and esophageal epithelium. Mice with conditional targeted deletion of either Ire1α or Xbp1 in keratin 14 expressing basal keratinocytes displayed severe thinning of the lingual and esophageal mucosa that rendered them unable to eat. In IRE1α null epithelium harvested at an earlier timepoint, genes regulating cell proliferation, cell-cell adhesion, and keratinization were significantly downregulated; indirect immunofluorescence revealed fewer proliferating basal keratinocytes, downregulation of E-cadherin, and thinning of the loricrin-positive granular and cornified layers. The number of Tp63-positive basal keratinocytes was reduced in the absence of IRE1α, and expression of the Wnt pathway transcription factor LEF1, which is required for the proliferation of lingual transit amplifying cells, was also significantly downregulated at the transcript and protein level. Together these results reveal an essential role for IRE1α-XBP1s in the maintenance of the stratified squamous epithelial tissue of the tongue and esophagus. [Display omitted] • The IRE1α-XBP1s signaling pathway is required for maturation of oral keratinocytes. • Deletion of Ire1α causes deterioration of lingual and esophageal epithelium. • Ire1α deletion downregulates mRNA for basal cell proliferation and differentiation. • LEF1 and p63 positive basal cells are lost in Ire1α null lingual epithelium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within populations, there commonly exists consistent among-individual differences in behaviour. As a potential mechanism maintaining this variation, the pace-of-life-syndrome (POLS) hypothesis posits that consistent differences in the behaviour of individuals (i.e. 'personality') are intercorrelated and have coevolved with consistent individual differences in metabolism and life-history traits. Here, using adult male guppies, Poecilia reticulata , we tested under laboratory conditions (1) whether behavioural and metabolic traits vary consistently among individuals over time (≤7 days) and (2) the POLS prediction that repeatable behavioural traits should be intercorrelated with each other and with repeatable metabolic rate at the among-individual level. Furthermore, based on indicator models of sexual selection, we expected that sexually selected male colour ornamentation would predict individual personality and metabolic rate. We repeatedly assayed three behavioural traits (sociability, boldness, exploration) and three metabolic traits (resting metabolic rate, maximal metabolic rate, aerobic scope) in a set of males that varied in body size and colour ornamentation. All behavioural trait measures were repeatable, consistent with individual personality. Of the three metabolic traits, only resting metabolic rate (RMR) was repeatable. Behavioural trait measures were significantly intercorrelated and thus integrated in a behavioural syndrome. More 'proactive' males were bolder, more exploratory and more sociable than 'reactive' ones. However, contrary to the POLS hypothesis, RMR was not significantly correlated with any of the behavioural trait measures, suggesting that consistent individual differences in RMR do not drive or support differences in personality, or vice versa. Male colour ornamentation did not covary with behaviour or RMR and thus does not appear to be a reliable predictor of either behavioural or metabolic phenotypes. We therefore did not find any compelling support for the POLS hypothesis, suggesting that individual differences in metabolism do not underlie the evolution and maintenance of among-individual behavioural variation in our study population. • We tested for behaviour–metabolism covariation in guppies (pace-of-life syndrome, POLS). • Behaviour and resting metabolic rate (RMR) differed consistently among males. • Behavioural differences between males, however, did not covary with their RMR. • Male colour ornamentation did not predict either their personality or metabolism. • Overall, our results do not support the central prediction of the POLS hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With 68% of the world's population expected to live in cities by 2050, it is crucial to understand how animals respond to urbanization. Urban areas are associated with changes in microclimate, light, noise and human activity, which can affect animal physiology, behaviour and fitness. In particular, urbanization may affect how parents allocate time and energy between parental care and self-maintenance. In birds, a critical aspect of parental care is incubation, where parents must maintain egg temperatures for successful offspring development. However, incubation is energetically costly, and anthropogenic disturbances may affect parental decisions related to this cost. Determining whether urbanization affects incubation is crucial for understanding the differences between urban and nonurban populations in their reproductive performance and fitness. We measured incubation behaviour and egg temperature in one urban and one forest population of great tits, a uniparental incubator, using temperature loggers. We found that, compared to forest females, urban females spent more time incubating, took shorter off-bouts and ended their last daily off-bouts at a later hour. Furthermore, time spent off the nest, the number and duration of off-bouts and daily start of activity were related to ambient temperature; start of activity was related to clutch size; and time spent off the nest was related to the day of incubation. Despite urban females spending more time on the nest, eggs of both forest and urban females experienced relatively similar average egg temperatures, and urban eggs tended to experience greater variability in egg temperature. Furthermore, there were no differences between sites for any fitness-related offspring variable. Our results suggest that urbanization can influence the thermal environment of developing avian offspring by causing urban adults to be inefficient incubators through increased activity off the nest in the evening, differences in nest insulation and/or suboptimal incubation behaviour compared to forest counterparts. • Urbanization appears to influence parental incubation behaviour of great tits. • Urban birds spent more time warming their eggs compared to birds in the forest. • However, outcomes for offspring were similar. • Urban eggs and forest eggs experienced similar temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared to most mammals, human pregnancy is unusual in that it involves chromosomally diverse embryos, cyclical breakdown and regeneration of the uterine mucosa, and intimate integration of fetal and maternal cells at the uteroplacental interface. Not surprisingly, pregnancy often falters in early gestation. Whether these losses result in clinical miscarriages depends on the origins and impacts of chromosomal errors on fetal development and the ability of the decidualizing endometrium to engage in embryo biosensing and selection. Aneuploidy originating in oocytes during meiosis drives the age-related risk of miscarriage. By contrast, the frequency of endometrial cycles with an impaired decidual response may account for the stepwise increase in miscarriage rates with each pregnancy loss independently of maternal age. Additional physiological mechanisms operate in early gestation to ensure that most failing pregnancies are lost before vascular maternal-fetal connections are established by the end of the first trimester. Here, we summarise how investigations into the mechanisms that cause miscarriage led to new insights into the processes that govern maternal selection of human embryos in early gestation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Social cognition difficulties were longitudinally linked to externalising problems. • This link was partially mediated by low morning cortisol. • The mediating role of morning cortisol persisted after controlling for confounders. • Flat diurnal cortisol slope also indicated risk for future externalising problems. • Inflammation was not related to social cognition or mental health problems. Deficits in social cognition are associated with internalising (emotional and peer problems) and externalising (conduct problems and hyperactivity/inattention) symptoms in youth. It has been suggested that stress may be one of the mechanisms underlying these associations. However, no empirical studies have investigated if physiological stress can explain the prospective associations between social cognition deficits and internalising and externalising symptoms in the general youth population. This study addressed this question and focused on two indicators of physiological stress, dysregulated diurnal cortisol patterns and systemic inflammation. Participants were 714 individuals from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), a UK population-based birth cohort. Bayesian structural equation modelling was used to investigate a) the associations of social cognition abilities at ages 8, 11, and 14 years with internalising and externalising problems at age 17 years and b) the potential mediating effects of cortisol parameters at age 15 years and inflammatory markers [interleukin 6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP)] at ages 9 and 16 years. We found that social cognition difficulties were associated with later internalising and externalising problems. Flattened diurnal cortisol slope was associated with hyperactivity/inattention problems two years later. Lower morning cortisol partially mediated the direct association between social communication deficits at 8 years and hyperactivity/inattention and conduct problems at 17 years, even after adjustments for inflammation and confounders (for hyperactivity/inattention: indirect effect = 0.07, 95% CI [0.00, 0.18], p =.042; for conduct problems: indirect effect = 0.04, 95% CI [0.00, 0.11], p =.040). We did not find a significant association between systemic inflammation and social cognition difficulties, internalising problems, or externalising problems. Our findings suggest that part of the effect of social communication difficulties in childhood on externalising problems in adolescence was mediated by lower morning cortisol. Hence, our study indicates that the hypoactivity of the hypothalamic–pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis may be one of the physiological mechanisms linking some social cognition deficits to externalising problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bisphenols and phthalates are two classes of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) thought to influence weight and adiposity. Limited research has investigated their influence on maternal weight changes, and no prior work has examined maternal fat mass. We examined the associations between exposure to these chemicals during pregnancy and multiple maternal weight and fat mass outcomes. This study included a sample of 318 women enrolled in a Canadian prospective pregnancy cohort. Second trimester urinary concentrations of 2 bisphenols and 12 phthalate metabolites were quantified. Self-reported and measured maternal weights and measured skinfold thicknesses were used to calculate gestational weight gain, 3-months and 3- to 5-years postpartum weight retention, late pregnancy fat mass gain, total postpartum fat mass loss, and late postpartum fat mass retention. Adjusted robust regressions examined associations between chemicals and outcomes in the entire study population and sub-groups stratified by pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI). Bayesian kernel machine regression examined chemical mixture effects. Among women with underweight or normal pre-pregnancy BMIs, MBzP was negatively associated with weight retention at 3- to 5-years postpartum (B = −0.04, 95%CI : −0.07, −0.01). Among women with overweight or obese pre-pregnancy BMIs, MEHP and MMP were positively associated with weight retention at 3-months and 3- to 5-years postpartum, respectively (B's = 0.12 to 0.63, 95%CIs: 0.02, 1.07). DEHP metabolites and MCNP were positively associated with late pregnancy fat mass gain and late postpartum fat mass retention (B's = 0.04 to 0.18, 95%CIs: 0.001, 0.32). Further, the mixture of EDCs was positively associated with late pregnancy fat mass gain. In this cohort, pre-pregnancy BMI was a key determinant of the associations between second trimester exposure to bisphenols and phthalates and maternal weight changes and fat accumulation. Investigations of underlying physiological mechanisms, windows of susceptibility, and impacts on maternal and infant health are needed. [Display omitted] • This study examined EDCs during pregnancy and maternal weight and fat mass outcomes. • Phthalate exposure associated with multiple weight and fat mass outcomes. • Directionality of associations differed based on maternal pre-pregnancy BMI. • Future work needed to examine potential mechanisms and windows of susceptibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbicides are the main class of pesticides applied in crops and are capable of polluting the surrounding freshwater system; thus, understanding their impact on non-target species, whose mechanism of action is not described, helps to elucidate the real risks of these pollutants to the environment. 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) is frequently detected in water and, due to its persistence, poses a risk to wildlife. In this way, the present work aimed to describe the implication of exposure to concentrations of 2,4-D already reported in aquatic environments in several physiological mechanisms of C. riparius at molecular and biochemical levels. To achieve this, bioassays were conducted with fourth instar larvae exposed to three concentrations of 2,4-D (0.1, 1.0, and 7.5 μg L−1). Larvae were collected after 24 and 96 h of exposure, and the expression of 42 genes, related to six subcellular mechanisms, was assessed by Real-Time PCR (RT-PCR). Besides, the activity of the enzymes catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) was determined. The main metabolic route altered after exposure to 2,4-D was the endocrine system (mainly related to 20-hydroxyecdysone and juvenile hormone), confirming its endocrine disruptor potential. Four of the eleven stress response genes studied were down-regulated, and later exposure modulated DNA-repair genes suggesting genotoxic capacity. Moreover, only one gene from each detoxification phase was modulated at short exposure to 1.0 μg L−1. The molecular responses were not dose-dependent, and some early responses were not preserved after 96 h, indicating a transient response to the herbicide. Exposure to 2,4-D did not alter the activity of CAT, GST, and AChE enzymes. The responses described in this study reveal new mechanistic pathways of toxicity for 2,4-D in non-target organisms and highlight potential ecological consequences for chironomids in aquatic systems at the edges of agricultural fields. [Display omitted] • Despite targeting eudicots, 2,4-D causes molecular effects in C. riparius. • Relevant concentrations (0.1 to 7.5 μg L−1) altered different metabolic pathways. • 2,4-D impacted the endocrine system, acting as an endocrine disruptor. • Detoxification, stress, and DNA-repair genes modulation suggest oxidative stress. • Medium-term exposure increases the molecular responses in C. riparius. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthracnose, a fungal disease, commonly infects tea plants and severely impacts the yield and quality of tea. One method for controlling anthracnose is the application of citronellol, a plant extract that exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. Herein, the physiological and biochemical mechanism by which citronellol controls anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum camelliae was investigated. Citronellol exhibited excellent antifungal activity based on direct and indirect mycelial growth inhibition assays, with EC 50 values of 76.88 mg/L and 29.79 μL/L air, respectively. Citronellol also exhibited good control effects on C. camelliae in semi-isolated leaf experiments. Optical and scanning electron microscopy revealed that citronellol caused C. camelliae mycelia to thin, fracture, fold and deform. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the mycelial cell walls collapsed inward and separated, and the organelles became blurred after treatment with citronellol. The sensitivity of C. camelliae to calcofluor white staining was significantly enhanced by citronellol, while PI staining showed minimal fluorescence, and the relative conductivity of mycelia were not significantly different. Under citronellol treatment, the expression levels of β -1,3-glucanase, chitin synthase, and chitin deacetylase-related genes were significantly decreased, while the expression levels of chitinase genes were increased, leading to lower chitinase activity and increased β -1,3-glucanase activity. Therefore, citronellol disrupted the cell wall integrity of C. camelliae and inhibited normal mycelial growth. [Display omitted] • Citronellol significantly exhibited the growth of Colletotrichum camelliae based on direct and indirect mycelial growth inhibition assays. • Citronellol could disrupt cell walls integrity, thereby inhibiting the mycelial growth of C. camelliae. • Citronellol might enhance the expression levels of β -1,3-glucanase-related genes, thereby increasing β -1,3-glucanase activity and promoting the degradation of cell wall components β -1,3-glucan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ginseng is a plant with a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine. However, large-scale cultivation of ginseng is limited by widespread issues with continuous cropping. To explore the physiological and molecular mechanisms behind ginseng crop disorders, transcriptomics and metabolomics were combined in this study to analyze the effects of continuous cropping on changes in ginseng metabolites, differential gene expression, and regulation of root secretions. The results showed that 106 metabolites and 1175 genes were significantly altered at the metabolic and transcriptional levels in ginseng from continuous cropping compared with the control group. More organic acids, alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolics accumulated in the ginseng from continuous cropping than the control ginseng. Furthermore, significant differences were found in the expression of genes involved in phytohormone signaling, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and plant–pathogen interaction pathways. The results provide information on the regulation of expression of genes associated with continuous cropping disorders, and suggest that continuous cropping disorders may lead to severe damage to ginseng roots by pathogens and result in slow growth. Our research provides new insight into the response of ginseng to crop disorders, and reveals potential molecular mechanisms of the ginseng response to crop disorders. • Continuous cropping of ginseng seriously affects its growth and development. • Changes were observed in 106 metabolites after continuous cropping of ginseng. • Continuous cropping ginseng showed significant changes in 1175 genes at the transcriptional level. • There are significant differences in gene expression in plant hormone signal transduction, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Necroptosis is a caspase-independent programmed cell death process characterized by morphological similarities to necrosis and the potential to cause significant inflammatory reactions. The initiation, execution, and inhibition of necroptosis involve a complex interplay of various signaling proteins. When death receptors bind to ligands, necroptosis is triggered through the receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 1 (RIPK1)/RIPK3/Mixed Lineage Kinase Domain-Like (MLKL) axis, leading to inflammatory reactions in the surrounding tissues. This process encompasses numerous physiological regulatory mechanisms and contributes to the development and progression of certain diseases. The mechanisms of necroptosis were not well conserved across terrestrial and aquatic organisms, with differences in some components and functions. Given the significant challenges that aquatic animal diseases pose to aquaculture, research interest in necroptosis has surged recently, particularly in studies focusing on fish. Understanding necroptosis in fish can lead to interventions that offer potential breakthroughs in disease inhibition and fish health improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics (MPs) have emerged as widespread environmental pollutants, causing significant threats to aquatic ecosystems and organisms. This review examines the toxic effects of MPs on fishes, with a focus on neurobehavioural, physiological, and reproductive impacts, as well as the underlying mechanisms of toxicity. Evidence indicates that MPs induce a range of neurobehavioural abnormalities in fishes, affecting social interactions and cognitive functions. Altered neurotransmitter levels are identified as a key mechanism driving behavioural alterations following MP exposure. Physiological abnormalities in fishes exposed to MPs are also reported, including neurotoxicity, immunotoxicity, and oxidative stress. These physiological disruptions can compromise the individual health of aquatic organisms. Furthermore, reproductive abnormalities linked to MP exposure are discussed, with a particular emphasis on disruptions in endocrine signaling pathways. These disruptions can impair reproductive success in fish species, impacting population numbers. Here we explore the critical role of endocrine disruptions in mediating reproductive effects after exposure to MPs, focusing primarily on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Our review highlights the urgent need for interdisciplinary research efforts aimed at elucidating the full extent of MP toxicity and its implications for aquatic ecosystems. Lastly, we identify knowledge gaps for future research, including investigations into the transgenerational impacts, if any, of MP exposure and quantifying synergetic/antagonistic effects of MPs with other environmental pollutants. This expanded knowledge regarding the potential risks of MPs to aquatic wildlife is expected to aid policymakers in developing mitigation strategies to protect aquatic species. • Fish exposed to MPs exhibit neurotoxicity, immunotoxicity, and oxidative stress. • MPs disrupt neurotransmitters in fish, affecting social interactions and cognitive function. • MP exposure disrupts fish hormonal signaling pathways, impacting reproductive function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumption of seawater is rare among mammals. Following a local report of Arabian tahr drinking seawater, we collected camera trapping data to confirm and measure the frequency of seawater consumption by Arabian tahr. Based on herbivores' seasonal deficiencies in sodium and other minerals and the infrequency of seawater consumption by Arabian tahr, we postulate the species uses seawater as a mineral supplement, similar to a terrestrial salt lick. As some countries protect salt licks as critical habitat features, we believe these areas where Arabian tahr can access the seashore should be similarly protected to help maintain behaviours that may contribute towards the fitness of this Endangered species. • A local fisherman's observation of an Arabian tahr drinking seawater was confirmed using camera trapping. • Photographs of male, female and young Arabian tahr drinking seawater were obtained. • The low frequency of seawater drinking suggested that seawater may be used by Arabian tahr as a mineral resource, particularly for sodium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on dilution effect of target-site resistance (TSR) to acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibitors in Schoenoplectiella juncoides , which harbors two ALS genes, ALS1 and ALS2. We assessed gene expression, enzyme activity, and whole-plant resistance profiles across four S. j uncoides lines: the susceptible line, the parental resistant lines with a homozygous mutation in either ALS1 or ALS2 , and the bred progeny line with homozygous mutations in both ALS1 and ALS2. Gene expression and enzyme function showed a proportional relationship that the expression ratios of ALS1 to ALS2 , approximately 70:30, were consistent with the functional ratio predicted by the double-sigmoidal plateau positions observed in enzyme assays. However, at the whole-plant level, resistance did not correlate to the putative abundance of susceptible enzyme, but the parental lines showed similar resistance to each other despite different enzyme-level resistances. This suggests a non-proportional mechanism in the reflection of physiological enzymatic profiles to whole-plant resistance profiles. These findings highlight the complexity of herbicide resistance and the need for further research to understand the mechanisms that influence resistance outcomes. Understanding these relationships is essential for developing strategies to manage herbicide resistance effectively. [Display omitted] • ALS1 to ALS2 expression ratio was around 70:30. • Enzyme activity was proportional to the expression ratio. • Enzyme activity was diluted by a contamination of susceptible enzymes. • Verified dilution effect at whole-plant level with various ALS inhibitors. • Gene expression non-proportionally reflect to whole-plant resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The last few decades have seen major advances in neurobiology and uncovered novel genetic and cellular substrates involved in the control of physiological set points. In this Review, I discuss the limitations in the definition of homeostatic set points established by Walter B Canon and highlight evidence that two other physiological systems, namely rheostasis and allostasis provide distinct inputs to independently modify set-point levels. Using data collected over the past decade, the hypothalamic and genetic basis of regulated changes in set-point values by rheostatic mechanisms are described. Then, the role of higher-order brain regions, such as hippocampal circuits, for experience-dependent, allostatic induced changes in set-points are outlined. I propose that these systems provide a hierarchical organization of physiological stability that exists to maintain set-point values. The hierarchical organization of physiology has direct implications for basic and medical research, and clinical practice. • Multiple physiological systems exhibit variation beyond homeostatic control. • Regulated, rheostatic changes in physiological set-point enhance fitness. • A three-level hierarchical organization of physiological stability is proposed. • Homeostasis, rheostasis and allostasis have distinct genes, cells, and systems. • Computational modelling supports a multi-tiered level of physiological control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxytocin is a neuropeptide positively associated with prosociality in adults. Here, we studied whether infants' salivary oxytocin can be reliably measured, is developmentally stable, and is linked to social behavior. We longitudinally collected saliva from 62 U.S. infants (44 % female, 56 % Hispanic/Latino, 24 % Black, 18 % non-Hispanic White, 11 % multiracial) at 4, 8, and 14 months of age and offline-video-coded the valence of their facial affect in response to a video of a smiling woman. We also captured infants' affective reactions in terms of excitement/joyfulness during a live, structured interaction with a singing woman in the Early Social Communication Scales at 14 months. We detected stable individual differences in infants' oxytocin levels over time (over minutes and months) and in infants' positive affect over months and across contexts (video-based and in live interactions). We detected no statistically significant changes in oxytocin levels between 4 and 8 months but found an increase from 8 to 14 months. Infants with higher oxytocin levels showed more positive facial affect to a smiling person video at 4 months; however, this association disappeared at 8 months, and reversed at 14 months (i.e., higher oxytocin was associated with less positive facial affect). Infant salivary oxytocin may be a reliable physiological measure of individual differences related to socio-emotional development. • Salivary oxytocin levels are stable over minutes and months in 4- to 14-month-olds. • Oxytocin levels do not change from 4 to 8, but increase from 8 to 14 months of age. • Infant positive affect to an unfamiliar person is stable across ages and contexts. • Infants show positive oxytocin-sociality link at 4 but negative link at 14 months. • The link between oxytocin and sociality may vary by age and contextual factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • J-domain proteins (JDPs) confer multifunctionality to Hsp70. • Modular domain organization of JDPs enables for functional diversifications. • JDPs fulfill fundamental functions in central protein quality control (PQC) pathways. • JDPs exert overlapping but also specialized PQC activities. • JDPs couple protein damage to chaperone gene expression. The Hsp70 chaperone system is a central component of cellular protein quality control (PQC) by acting in a multitude of protein folding processes ranging from the folding of newly synthesized proteins to the disassembly and refolding of protein aggregates. This multifunctionality of Hsp70 is governed by J-domain proteins (JDPs), which act as indispensable co-chaperones that target specific substrates to Hsp70. The number of distinct JDPs present in a species always outnumbers Hsp70, documenting JDP function in functional diversification of Hsp70. In this review, we describe the physiological roles of JDPs in the Saccharomyces cerevisiae PQC system, with a focus on the abundant JDP generalists, Zuo1, Ydj1 and Sis1, which function in fundamental cellular processes. Ribosome-bound Zuo1 cooperates with the Hsp70 chaperones Ssb1/2 in folding and assembly of nascent polypeptides. Ydj1 and Sis1 cooperate with the Hsp70 members Ssa1 to Ssa4 to exert overlapping functions in protein folding and targeting of newly synthesized proteins to organelles including mitochondria and facilitating the degradation of aberrant proteins by E3 ligases. Furthermore, they act in protein disaggregation reactions, though Ydj1 and Sis1 differ in their modes of Hsp70 cooperation and substrate specificities. This results in functional specialization as seen in prion propagation and the underlying dominant role of Sis1 in targeting Hsp70 for shearing of prion amyloid fibrils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global warming and environmental pollutants both pose a threat to the behavior and physiology of animals, but research on the combined effects of the two is limited. Atrazine, a widely used herbicide, has toxic effects on organisms. In this study, the effects of environmental concentrations of atrazine exposure (100 μg/L) for seven days on the movement, metabolism and gene expression related to motility of Pelophylax nigromaculatus larvae (GS8) were investigated under global warming. The results showed that compared to the optimal growth temperature (18 °C), atrazine treatment under global warming (21 °C) significantly increased the average speed (about 11.2 times) and maximum acceleration (about 1.98 times) of P. nigromaculatus larvae, altered the relative abundance of 539 metabolites, including Formyl-5-hydroxykynurenamine, 2,4-Dihydroxybenzophenone, and FAPy-adenine, and changed the nucleotide metabolism, pyrimidine metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and purine metabolism, as well as increased the gene expression of SPLA2 (about 6.46 times) and CHK (about 3.25 times). In summary, atrazine treatment under global warming caused metabolic disorders in amphibian larvae and increased the expression of some movement-related genes in the brain, resulting in abnormally active. [Display omitted] • Atrazine treatment under global warming increased movement active of tadpole. • Atrazine treatment under global warming caused metabolic disorders of tadpole. • Atrazine treatment under global warming increased movement-related gene expressions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With global climate changing, hypo-salinity events are increasing in frequency and duration because of continuous rainfall and freshwater inflow, which causes reduced cytosolic osmolarity and cellular stress responses in aquatic animals. Sea cucumbers are considered stenohaline because they lack osmoregulatory organs and are vulnerable to salinity fluctuations. In this study, we performed multiple biochemical assays, de novo transcriptomics, and widely targeted metabolomics to comprehensively explore the osmoregulatory mechanisms and physiological responses of sea cucumber Holothuria moebii to hypo-osmotic stress, which is a representative specie that is frequently exposed to hypo-saline intertidal zones. Our results found that H. moebii contracted their ambulacral feet and oral tentacles, and the coelomic fluid ion concentrations were reduced to be consistent with the environment. The microvilli of intestines and respiratory trees underwent degeneration, and the cytoplasm exhibited swelling and vacuolation. Moreover, the Na+, K+, and Cl− concentrations and Na+/K+-ATPase activity were significantly reduced under hypo-osmotic stress. The decrease in protein kinase A activity and increase in 5′-AMP level indicated a significant inhibition of the cAMP signaling pathway to regulate ion concentrations. And small intracellular organic molecules (amino acids, nucleotides and their derivatives) also play crucial roles in osmoregulation through oxidative deamination of glutamate, nucleotide catabolism, and nucleic acid synthesis. Moreover, lysosomes and peroxisomes removed oxidative damage, whereas antioxidant metabolites, such as N-acetyl amino acids and glutathione, were increased to resist oxidative stress. With prolonged hypo-osmotic stress, glycerophospholipid metabolism was enhanced to maintain membrane stability. Furthermore, acyl-CoA-binding protein activity was significantly inhibited, and only a small amount of acylcarnitine was significantly accumulated, which indicated a disruption in energy metabolism. PPAR signaling pathway and choline content were up-regulated to promote fatty acid metabolism under hypo-osmotic stress. Overall, our results provide new insights into the osmoregulatory mechanisms and physiological responses of sea cucumbers to hypo-osmotic stress. [Display omitted] • Transcriptomics and metabolomics reveal hypo-osmotic stress effects on sea cucumber. • Coelomic fluid ion concentrations were highly correlated with environment. • Inorganic ions, amino acids, nucleotides, and their derivatives play crucial osmoregulatory roles. • ROS scavenging and glycerophospholipid metabolism were activated to resist oxidative stress. • Acyl-CoA-binding protein activity was inhibited, resulting in blocked energy metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurons are highly polarized cells with extensive axonal and dendritic projections that send and receive signals over long distances. Neuronal polarity requires sorting and maintaining a unique set of proteins to the neuron's distinct axonal and somatodendritic domains. The axon initial segment (AIS) is a specialized subcellular region located between these two domains and is critical for neuronal polarity. The AIS has a complex and elaborately organized molecular structure that enables its functions in neuronal polarity. Disruption of the AIS is associated with neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disease pathologies, thus highlighting the importance of the AIS in neuronal physiology. This review discusses recent progress toward understanding the molecular architecture of the AIS and its importance in neuronal polarity through regulating protein diffusion and vesicular trafficking. [Display omitted] • The axon initial segment (AIS) is critical for both neuronal polarity and signaling. • The AIS is composed of a complex and periodically organized layered structure. • The giant 480 ​kDa ankyrinG is critical for assembling this layered structure. • The AIS functions in neuronal polarity as a diffusion barrier and vesicle filter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While a growing body of literature has shown that tourism provisioning can influence the behaviour of wildlife, how physiological state might be related to the nature and magnitude of these effects remains poorly understood. Physiological state, including reproductive and nutritional status, can have profound effects on an individual's behaviour and decision making. In the present study, we used multiple physiological markers related to reproductive (testosterone, 17β-oestradiol and progesterone), metabolic (corticosteroids) and nutritional ecology (stable isotopes and fatty acids), integrated with ultrasonography and passive acoustic telemetry to explore the possible relationship between physiological condition and space use of tiger sharks, Galeocerdo cuvier , exposed to dive tourism provisioning. Large, nongravid female tiger sharks, with higher plasma steroid levels (i.e. testosterone, 17β-oestradiol, relative corticosteroid), enriched δ15N and elevated nutritional status (in terms of fatty acids) spent proportionally more time at food provisioning sites compared to conspecifics. Testosterone levels also were positively correlated with the proportion of time spent at provisioning sites. Based on these results, we speculate that physiological condition plays a role in shaping the spatial behaviour of female tiger sharks within the context of food provisioning, whereby larger individuals, exhibiting higher testosterone levels and elevated nutritional status, show selective preferences for provisioning dive sites, where they outcompete conspecifics of relatively smaller size, lower testosterone levels and depressed nutritional state. While more studies are needed to explore whether sharks are making these decisions because of their physiological state or whether spending more time at provisioning sites results in altered physiological state, our findings highlight the importance of considering animal life stage, endocrine regulation, and nutritional condition when evaluating the biological impacts of provisioning tourism. • Larger female tiger sharks spent proportionally more time at food provisioning sites. • Testosterone levels were correlated with the time spent at provisioning sites. • Sharks exhibiting high use for provisioning sites had higher plasma steroid levels. • Sharks exhibiting high use for provisioning sites had elevated nutritional status. • Physiological condition seems to an important decision-making determinant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The question of how animals make decisions has been intensely studied by ethologists, behavioural ecologists, psychologists and neuroscientists alike. Foraging bumble bees are an excellent system to study decision making because, as eusocial insects, foragers are solely focused on the task of collecting food for the colony. Bumble bees are generalist foragers of ephemeral resources that do not store food long term and are thus expected to show flexible adjustments in foraging motivation in response to stored food. However, their feeding behaviour at resources as a function of stored food has not been explored. Here, we present results demonstrating that bumble bees (Bombus impatiens) show flexible adjustments in foraging motivation in response to colony food stores across different timescales. First, bumble bees showed decreased foraging motivation as the colony accumulated food over the course of a day. Second, bees that developed in colonies with full food stores showed persistently lower motivation than bees developing in colonies with impoverished food stores even days after those food stores were removed. We further demonstrate that this persistent low motivation may be explained by the lower amount of abdominal lipids in nutrient-depleted colonies. Our results provide evidence for a mechanism that may mediate the social control of individual foraging motivation, an important step in the evolution of eusociality. • We examined bumble bee feeding behaviour at resources as a function of stored food. • We tested bees from provisioned and unprovisioned colonies. • Bees showed flexible foraging based on colony food stores across timescales. • Bees from provisioned colonies showed lower foraging motivation. • This low foraging motivation may be explained by lower abdominal lipid levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Progress in understanding physiological mechanisms often consists of discrete discoveries made across different models and species. Accordingly, understanding the mechanistic bases for how altering nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability impacts exercise tolerance (or not) depends on integrating information from cellular energetics and contractile regulation through microvascular/vascular control of O 2 transport and pulmonary gas exchange. This review adopts state-of-the-art concepts including the intramyocyte power grid, the Wagner conflation of perfusive and diffusive O 2 conductances, and the Critical Power/Critical Speed model of exercise tolerance to address how altered NO bioavailability may, or may not, affect physical performance. This question is germane from the elite athlete to the recreational exerciser and particularly the burgeoning heart failure (and other clinical) populations for whom elevating O 2 transport and/or exercise capacity translates directly to improved life quality and reduced morbidity and mortality. The dearth of studies in females is also highlighted, and areas of uncertainty and questions for future research are identified. • We summarize the effects of nitrate(NO 3 −)/nitrite(NO 2 −) supplementation on exercise tolerance in healthy subjects and heart failure patients, starting with the impact of greater nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability on muscle perfusive and diffusive O 2 conductance up to the mechanisms by which nitrate supplementation enhances muscle contractile function • We also explore how the positive effects of elevated intramyocyte NO bioavailability combine with NO-induced cytochrome c oxidase inhibition to better distribute O 2 across the myocyte • Finally, we highlight what little is known regarding sex differences in response to NO 3 − supplementation and identify next-step questions in this vital arena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The significance of root system architecture (RSA) to the productivity and adaptation of crops such as soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) is well recognized. RSA is an essential trait in the selection of genotypes with improved resource acquisition and adaptation to environmental stresses. High-throughput phenotyping, imaging of root growth and structure, genomic sequencing and association analysis techniques are useful tools in soybean breeding programs that aim to improve plant performance and productivity. This chapter discusses genetic variability and plasticity in soybean root system morphology, root architecture and root anatomic traits that are relevant to increased soil resource use efficiency and better adaptation to specific soil environments. We consider the importance of soybean/rhizobia and rhizosphere interactions and highlight current challenges and future directions in improving soybean root physiology and morphology for better adaptation to abiotic stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animal communication networks consist of multisensory signals and often include an acoustic element. Many freshwater fishes, including the blacktail shiner, Cyprinella venusta , produce specific vocalizations during courtship and agonistic behaviours. Similar to other vocal taxa, fish communication networks are vulnerable to noise pollution. The dominant frequencies of anthropogenic noise often overlap spectrally with animal acoustic signals. To investigate the role of acoustic signalling in breeding soniferous fishes in a physiological context, we conducted a series of acoustic playback trials. We measured waterborne levels of oestradiol (E2) and prostaglandin F2 α (PGF2 α) in gravid females exposed to courtship calls, and levels of 11-ketotestosterone (11KT) in males exposed to agonistic calls. In a separate series of trials, we exposed individuals to calls masked with bridge traffic noise. Hormone levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and analysed using repeated measures ANOVAs. Gravid females exhibited a significant drop in E2 (P = 0.023) and an increase in PGF2 α during courtship calls (P = 0.01). Our research suggests that growl signals contribute to the onset of spawning behaviours in female C. venusta and this response may be dampened by anthropogenic noise pollution. • We examined effects of anthropogenic noise on acoustic signalling in C. venusta. • Males produce growls (courtship/spawning) and knocks (male–male aggression). • Unmasked growls modulated levels of reproductive hormones in gravid females. • Males did not respond hormonally to unimodal stimuli. • Fish exposed to masked vocalizations did not exhibit hormonal changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The eyes are one of the most important sensory organs in the human body. Currently, diseases such as limbal stem cell deficiency, cataract, retinitis pigmentosa and dry eye seriously threaten the quality of people's lives, and the treatment of advanced blinding eye disease and dry eye is ineffective and costly. Thus, new treatment modalities are urgently needed to improve patients' symptoms and suffering. In recent years, stem cell-derived three-dimensional structural organoids have been shown to mimic specific structures and functions similar to those of organs in the human body. Currently, 3D culture systems are used to construct organoids for different ocular growth and development models and ocular disease models to explore their physiological and pathological mechanisms. Eye organoids can also be used as a platform for drug screening. This paper reviews the latest research progress in regard to eye organoids (the cornea, lens, retina, lacrimal gland, and conjunctiva). • 1. This paper comprehensively describes the structure and function of stem cell derived three-dimensional structure organism. • 2. It is discussed that the three-dimensional structure organism can simulate the specific structure and function of human organs and play a role in the treatment of eye diseases. • 3. The functional mechanism of three-dimensional organisms in the treatment of eye diseases was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Premolt blue crabs exhibited a larger response (reduction) in ecdysteroid concentrations at 19 °C than the intermolt animals; • The premolt Y-organ showed an expressive reduction of the ecdysteroid receptor CasGC-YO1 transcripts compared to the intermolt animals at 19 °C; • The XO-SG displayed higher ecdysteroid receptor expression at all three temperatures in the intermolt animals compared to premolt crabs, whereas in the hepatopancreas there was an increase in the receptor transcripts only at 19 °C. • Both heat shock proteins show increased gene expression in the Y-organ of premolt crabs subjected to 19 °C. • In the XO/SG, CasMIH transcripts were not affected by molt stage or temperature while CasCHH expression increased in the XO/SG of intermolt animals subjected to the warmer temperature compared to 19 °C and to premolt crabs at the same temperature. Environmental cues such as temperature induce macroscopic changes in the molting cycle of crustaceans, however, the physiological mechanisms behind these changes remain unclearWe aimed to investigate the regulatory mechanisms in the intermolt and premolt stages of the Callinectes sapidus molt cycle in response to thermal stimuli. The concentration of ecdysteroids and lipids in the hemolymph, and the expression of heat shock proteins (HSPs) and molt key genes were assessed at 19 °C, 24 °C and 29 °C. The premolt animals exhibited a much larger response to the colder temperature than intermolt animals. Ecdysteroids decreased drastically in premolt animals, whereas the expression of their hepatopancreas receptor (CasEcR) increased, possibly compensating for the low hemolymphatic levels at 19 °C. This decrease might be due to increased HSPs and inhibited ecdysteroidogenesis in the Y-organ. In addition, the molting-inhibiting hormone expression in the X-organ/sinus gland (XO/SG) remained constant between temperatures and stages, suggesting it is constitutive in this species. Lipid concentration in the hemolymph, and the expression of CasEcR and CasHSP90 in the XO/SG were influenced by the molting stage, not temperature. On the other hand, the expression of HSPs in the hepatopancreas is the result of the interaction between the two factors evaluated in the study. Our results demonstrated that temperature is an effective modulator of responses related to the molting cycle at the endocrine level and that temperature below the control condition caused a greater effect on the evaluated responses compared to the thermostable condition, especially when the animal was in the premolt stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ungulates have physiological and behavioral mechanisms to respond to seasonal variation and resource availability to meet their nutritional needs. To understand the effects of primary productivity in long-term studies, vegetation indices (e.g., enhanced vegetation index, EVI) can be used as indirect indicators of the nitrogen available to herbivores in arid and mountain environments. In this research, we explore the relationship between the variation in guanaco's local density (Lama guanicoe) and the EVI between 2008 and 2017 in a wild partially migratory population of La Payunia Reserve (Mendoza, Argentina) using a weighted linear regression. Our results indicated a significant relation between guanaco local density and EVI (R2 = 0.68; p-value = 0.003), suggesting that the interannual variation in guanaco local density can be explained, at least in part, by higher aerial net primary productivity. Possibly, when nutrient availability is high, the local environment can support a higher local animal density than in years in which primary productivity is lower. When nutrients are limited, some individuals may use other areas not considered in this study. Even preliminary, these results bring new insights into the ecophysiology of this extremely plastic ungulate and contribute to understanding its energetic strategy. • We studied the relationship between the variation in local guanaco density and Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) in the partially migratory population of La Payunia Reserve. • Our results indicated guanaco local density is correlated with EVI. • Possibly, the variation in interannual local densities is, in part, related to the movement of individuals to other locations when primary productivity is low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Shyness was related to the experience of anxiety assessed via self-report and physiology while completing a risk-taking task under peer observation in children and adolescents. • Shyness was related to a slower response time during risk-taking task for children and adolescents across alone and peer conditions, which may reflect decisional conflict. • Shyness in children was related to a poorer performance on a risk-taking task across peer and alone conditions. • Shyness was unrelated to risk-taking propensity in children and adolescents across peer and alone conditions. Although temperamental shyness is conceptualized as a trait marked by cautiousness, we know relatively little about its relation to risk-taking. We examined how shyness was related to opportunities for risk-taking while considering how social context (i.e., presence of peers) and developmental stage (i.e., children and adolescents) might influence this relation. In the current study, 198 children (M age = 10.17 years) and 221 adolescents (M age = 13.46 years) completed the Balloon Analogue Risk Task (BART) alone or during a peer observation manipulation. For children and adolescents, shyness was related to physiological arousal and self-reporting feeling anxious during the peer condition. However, peer observation did not influence the relation between shyness and behavioral responses during the BART. Across both alone and peer conditions, shyness was related to a longer response time for children and adolescents, which may reflect decisional conflict during risk-taking opportunities. Furthermore, shyness in children (but not in adolescents) was related to poorer performance (i.e., fewer points), whereas shyness was unrelated to risk-taking propensity (i.e., number of pumps) for both children and adolescents. Overall, although the presence of peers may induce anxiety during a risk-taking opportunity for children and adolescents higher in shyness, this does not appear to modify their risk-taking behaviors. Instead, shyer children and adolescents in general may take a longer time to decide whether to act in a risky manner, whereas shy children in particular may show poorer performance in obtaining a reward on a risk-taking task. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic residues, such as tetracycline (TET), in aquatic environments have become a global concern. The liver and gut are important for immunity and metabolism in aquatic organisms. In this study, juvenile groupers were subjected to 1 and 100 μg/L TET for 14 days, and the physiological changes of these fish were evaluated from the perspective of gut-liver axis. After TET exposure, the liver showed histopathology, lipid accumulation, and the elevated ALT activity. An oxidative stress response was induced in the liver and the metabolic pattern was disturbed, especially pyrimidine metabolism. Further, intestinal health was also affected, including the damaged intestinal mucosa, the decreased mRNA expression levels of tight junction proteins (ZO-1 , Occludin , and Claudin-3), along with the increased gene expression levels of inflammation (IL-1β , IL-8 , TNF-α) and apoptosis (Casp-3 and p53). The diversity of intestinal microbes increased and the community composition was altered, and several beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus , Bacteroidales S24-7 group, and Romboutsia) and harmful (Aeromonas , Flavobacterium , and Nautella) exhibited notable correlations with hepatic physiological indicators and metabolites. These results suggested that TET exposure can adversely affect the physiological homeostasis of groupers through the gut-liver axis. • The liver showed obvious histopathological changes, lipid accumulation, and oxidative stress. • Liver metabolic pattern especially pyrimidine metabolism was disturbed. • Intestinal health including tight junction, inflammation and apoptosis indexes were affected. • Intestinal microbial diversity increased and the community composition and function were varied. • Several intestinal bacteria were correlated with the physiological indexes and metabolites of the liver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saliva foam can be easily formed upon different oral movement, but the impact of saliva foam on aroma release and perception is less investigated. Recruited subjects were asked to chew mint-flavor gums to mimic saliva foam generation. During gum-chewing, i.) subjects' retronasal release and dynamic perception of menthol and ii) their salivary bubble number and size, were continuously monitored. In the 'normal series' of experiments, bubbles were generated by the oral behavior of mastication; and in the 'defoamed series' of experiments, a defoaming agent was simultaneously added to eliminate the bubble effect during mastication. A continuous formation and collapse of saliva bubbles in the normal group led to a stable higher release of menthol in subjects' exhalation and significantly higher mint flavor perception (p < 0.05). In the defoamed series, saliva bubble numbers were reduced drastically (1–2 orders of magnitude) and more menthol was retained in saliva, which further affected subjects' intensity perception. Multiple physiological factors including salivary protein concentration, viscosity and surface tension contributed to the individual sensory perception variations, and no single parameter could explain the exact relationship between aroma release and retronasal perception. This study provided insights on the aroma delivery in food matrix design and development. • Saliva bubble evaluation system was successfully established and validated. • Saliva bubbles are continuously formed then collapsed during oral processing. • Existence of saliva bubbles can enhance the release and perception of menthol. • Saliva with limited bubbles retard the dynamic perception of menthol. • Individual salivary biochemical and physico-chemical properties play essential roles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium contamination can lead to a decrease in crop yield and quality. However, Cd-tolerant rice can improve rice resistance genes, improve crop tolerance to heavy metals, and protect plants from oxidative damage. In this study, Japonica rice: Chunyou 987 and Indica rice: Chuanzhong you 3607 were used to reveal the molecular response mechanism of Cd-tolerant rice under cadmium concentration of 3 mg/kg through comparative experiments combined with physiology and proteomics. The results showed that compared with indica rice, japonica rice showed more robust resistance to Cd stress and effectively retained many Cd ions in roots. Moreover, it enhanced its enzymatic and non-enzymatic anti-oxidative stress mechanism, which increased the activities of catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) by 47.37%, 21.75%, and 55.42%, respectively. The contents of non-enzymatic antioxidant substances ascorbic acid (AsA), glutathione (GSH), cysteine (Cys), proline (PRO), anthocyanins (OPC), and flavonoids were increased by 25.32%, 42.67%, 21.43%, 50.81%, 33.23%, and 72.16%, respectively. Through proteomics analysis, it was found that in response to the damage caused by cadmium stress, Japonica rice makes Photosynthesis functional proteins (psbO and PetH), Photosynthesis antenna proteins (LHCA and ASCAB9), Carbon fixation functional proteins (PEPC and OsAld), Porphyrin metabolism functional proteins (OsRCCR1 and SE5), Glyoxylate and dicarboxylate The expression of metabolism functional proteins (CATC and GLO4.) and Glutathione metabolism functional proteins (APX8 and OsGSTU13) were significantly up-regulated, which stimulated the antioxidant stress mechanism and photosynthetic system, and constructed a robust energy supply system to ensure the normal metabolic activities of life. Strengthening the mechanisms of plant homeostasis. In summary, this study revealed the molecular mechanism of tolerance to Cd stress in japonica rice, and the results of this study will provide a possible way to improve Cd-resistant rice seedlings. [Display omitted] • Many cadmium ions were retained in the roots of Cd-tolerant japonica rice. • Japonica rice shows its stress resistance by significantly enhancing its own enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant mechanisms. • Japonica rice enhances its enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant mechanisms to show its stress resistance. • Japonica rice maintains its homeostasis by constructing a solid energy supply system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]