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The maximum cumulative life span of kidneys and livers first in donors and then in transplant recipients has not been established. The purpose of this study was to determine if cumulative organ function for more than 90 years is possible for transplanted kidneys and livers. This study included kidney and liver transplants from living or deceased donors ≥55 years. Cumulative organ function (COF) = Organ Age at Donation [Years] + Tx Allograft Function [Years]. Univariate and multivariable methods were used to describe characteristics and outcomes. Between 1987 and 2022, a total of 81,807 kidney and 37,099 liver transplants were included in this study. Of all kidney grafts 2.7% but 16.6 % of all liver grafts reached the 90-year COF mark. There were only 2 living donor kidneys that surpassed the 100-year mark versus 29 deceased liver grafts. The longest kidney function was 104 years and longest liver function 108 years. Multivariate analysis showed that optimal donor and recipient selection and management are predictors for allograft longevity. COF in organs exceeding 100 physiologic years is possible. Extended organ longevity was 5 times more common for livers than kidneys. These analyses support that age alone should not exclude older kidney and liver donors from consideration for transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sorafenib is a targeted anticancer drug in clinic. Low-dose sorafenib has been reported to activate AMPK through inducing mitochondrial uncoupling without detectable toxicities. AMPK activation has been the approach for extending lifespan, therefore, we investigated the effect of sorafenib on lifespan and physical activity of C. elegans and the underlying mechanisms. In the present study, we found that the effect of sorafenib on C. elegans lifespan was typically hermetic. Sorafenib treatment at higher concentrations (100 μM) was toxic but at lower concentrations (1, 2.5, 5 μM) was beneficial to C. elegans. Sorafenib (1 μM) treatment for whole-life period extended C. elegans lifespan and improved C. elegans physical activity as manifested by increasing pharyngeal pumping and body movement, preserving intestinal barrier integrity, muscle fibers organization and mitochondrial morphology. In addition, sorafenib (1 μM) treatment enhanced C. elegans stress resistance. Sorafenib activated AMPK through inducing mitochondrial uncoupling in C. elegans. Sorafenib treatment activated DAF-16, SKN-1, and increased SOD-3, HSP-16.2, GST-4 expression in C. elegans. Sorafenib treatment induced AMPK-dependent autophagy in C. elegans. We conclude that low-dose sorafenib protects C. elegans against aging through activating AMPK/DAF-16 dependent anti-oxidant pathways and stimulating autophagy responses. Low-dose sorafenib could be a strategy for treating aging and aging-related diseases. [Display omitted] • Sorafenib extends C. elegans lifespan and improves C. elegans physical activity. • Sorafenib treatment enhances stress resistance of C. elegans. • Sorafenib extends C. elegans lifespan via AMPK/DAF-16 dependent anti-oxidant pathways. • Sorafenib induces AMPK-dependent autophagy in C. elegans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several technologies provide cellular connectivity to transmit data to end devices (EDs) in the indoor environment. These technologies have short-range; complex network architecture; short lifespan; and high power consumption. In this paper, LoRa is utilized to design the Building Internet of Things (BIoT) system for electronic shelf labels (ESL) to provide long-range connectivity. To minify the transmission losses, the concurrent data exploits data parallelism for updating transmission parameters at the network server (NS) for non-interruptive communication between the centroid gateways (GWs) and allocated EDs. The EDs are deployed by K-means at different locations in each cluster based on spreading factor (SF) and data rate (DR) to avoid data congestion and intra-SF interference for the SF and hybrid (DR/SF) models. The varying bandwidths (BWs) and duty cycles (DCs) enhance the lifespan of the EDs, while the Bayesian game parameter selection (BGPS) method minimizes the power losses among the EDs. The one-slope estimates medium losses; the adjusted R-square predicts variance; and Pearson finds a correlation among the measured values. The hybrid model improves the network's performance to a spiraling average efficiency of 90.48 % and 89.64 %, with network saturation of 10.185 % and 10.337 % for pure and slotted ALOHA, respectively. The overall results illustrate a packet loss ratio (PLR) of 20.11 % for the SF model and 4.861 % for the hybrid model. The energy dissipation plunged to 0.06032 J per day, prolonging the EDs' life span to 14265.34 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Platelet ageing is an area of research which has gained much interest in recent years. Newly formed platelets, often referred to as reticulated platelets, young platelets or immature platelets, are defined as RNA-enriched and have long been thought to be hyper-reactive. This latter view is largely rooted in associations and observations in patient groups with shortened platelet half-lives who often present with increased proportions of newly formed platelets. Evidence from such groups suggests that an increased proportion of newly formed platelets is associated with an increased risk of thrombotic events and a reduced effectiveness of standard anti-platelet therapies. Whilst research has highlighted the existence of platelet subpopulations based on function, size and age within patient groups, the common intrinsic changes which occur as platelets age within the circulation are only just being explored. By understanding the changes that occur during the natural ageing processes of platelets, we may be able to identify the triggers for alterations in platelet life span and platelet reactivity. Here we review research on platelet ageing in the context of health and disease, paying particular attention to the experimental approaches taken and the robustness of conclusions that can be drawn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green synthetic approaches aid control of physicochemical properties of nanoparticles and decrease the environmental footprint of the nanoparticles. Herein, novel synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) using natural surfactants and sequential investigation of their optical, physicochemical and photocatalytic properties are conducted. This work utilizes β-cyclodextrin (βCD) and honey as surfactants during the production process. It is demonstrated that these natural surfactants have the ability to control size, shape, crystalline phase growth and dispersion of NPs (denoted as ZnO-C and ZnO-H). Subsequent coupling of ZnO NPs with Ag to form the binary nanostructures (ZnO-xAg, ZnO-C-xAg and ZnO-H-xAg) further assists controlling their physicochemical properties. With a variation of Ag NPs loading, the 3 wt% Ag loaded nanophotocatalysts were more efficient and their associated properties were revealed by various characterization techniques. Nanoparticles of different shapes were fabricated with a surface area of up to 10 m 2. g − 1 and crystalline sizes of 9.38 nm. Photoluminescent spectroscopy indicated that Ag nanoparticles enhanced the life span of electron-hole pairs. Thus, photodegradation of bromophenol blue (BPB) indicated enhanced NPs photoactivity upon modification with CD, honey, and Ag NPs. BPB photodegradation was > 99.84% using ZnO-H-3Ag with reaction rates of k 0 app = 518.8 × 10 − 2 min − 1 and up to 75% total organic carbon was removed by ZnO-H-3Ag at a rate of 8.19 × 10 − 3 min − 1 . [Display omitted] • Green synthesis of Ag-ZnO nanoparticles. • Honey and β-cyclodextrin act as natural surfactants for particle size, crystalline facet control and particle dispersion of ZnO. • Honey-modified ZnO NPs have smaller particle size, better distribution and superior photocatalytic removal of bromophenol Blue (>99%). • Pseudo kinetics for the degradation of bromophenol blue were determined. • Degradation mechanism of bromophenol blue proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite its high prevalence, little information is available about the course of insomnia symptoms over the life span. In this study, we analyzed the self-reported insomnia symptoms of the general population over more than 20 years, covering young up to middle adulthood. Data from waves 12 to 32 of the Saxon Longitudinal Study (1996–2021), were analyzed. Based on data from the 12th wave, n = 115 adults (48 men (41.7%), 67 women (58.3%), M age = 23.59, SD = 0.59) completed the G-Score Item #3 in the following 18 waves, thus forming the basis for our analyses. The G-Score Item #3 reads "In the last 12 months, have you had the following complaints? Please indicate how often they occurred – Insomnia". The G-Score Item #3 was dichotomized using a cut-off score of 2, and prevalence and incidence rates were calculated by gender. The minimum prevalence rate was 23.48% (M age = 32.11, SD = 0.40), and the maximum was 47.83% (M age = 48.43, SD = 0.64), indicating an increase in insomnia symptoms with age. In most cases, no evidence was found for gender differences in prevalence rates. The incidence rates were 10.43% for the 1st year of follow-up and 8.7% for the 5th year and 6th year of follow-up, respectively. This study provides further evidence for the high prevalence rates of insomnia symptoms in the general population. As this study is the first epidemiological study of insomnia symptoms based on a single-item (screening) instrument, it should be rather seen as an extension than a replication of previous study findings. • The Saxon Longitudinal Study is one of the longest running German studies. • Over a period of 25 years, insomnia symptoms have been measured with a validated single item. • The data show an increase in insomnia symptoms over time (1996–2021). • In most waves, there was no evidence of gender differences in prevalence rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

/Background: The allostatic framework is a theoretical perspective that identifies allostatic load (AL) as a meaningful measure of dysregulation and desynchrony across biological processes due to cumulative stress exposure, thereby increasing disease risk. Research exploring the relationships of AL with sleep quality have yielded inconsistent findings. We examined AL at three visits (2004–2009 [Visit 1], 2009–2013 [Visit 2] and 2013–2017 [Visit 3]) in relation to sleep quality [Visit 3] among urban adults by sex, race and age group. We analyzed data on 1489 Healthy Aging in Neighborhoods of Diversity across the Life Span (HANDLS) participants [59.6% female, baseline age: 48.2 years, 58.5% African Americans] with available data on cardiovascular, metabolic and inflammatory AL markers and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores. Least squares regression models were constructed to evaluate AL score at Visit 1 (AL v1) and z-transformed probability of higher trajectory in AL score between Visit 1 and Visit 3 (AL traj) as predictors of PSQI score at Visit 3, controlling for demographic, lifestyle and health characteristics at Visit 1. AL traj was generated using group-based trajectory modeling. In fully adjusted models, AL v1 and PSQI score were positively related among men only (β = 0.43, P = 0.001), whereas higher AL traj was associated with PSQI score among women (β = 0.51, P = 0.001), White (β = 0.45, P = 0.011) and African American (β = 0.33, P = 0.014) populations. There were no statistically significant interactions according to age group (<50 vs. ≥ 50). Disparities exist whereby AL trajectory predicted sleep quality among women irrespective of race and baseline AL predicted sleep quality among men. Future studies should examine bi-directional AL-sleep relationships. • 1489 Healthy Aging in Neighborhoods of Diversity across the Life Span participants. • Allostatic load and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores. • Baseline allostatic load predicted sleep quality among men. • Allostatic load trajectory predicted sleep quality among women irrespective of race. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-cell transcriptomics of brain vascular cells reveals distinct subtypes of endothelial and mural cells, as well as transcriptomic profiles defining their organization and zonation in the embryonic and adult brain. Mutual interactions between angiogenesis and neurogenesis promote the formation of the blood–brain barrier and coordinate the proliferation, differentiation, and migration of neural progenitors. A full repertoire of endothelial and mural cell subtypes can be identified in the ventricular and subventricular zones of the cerebral cortex and germinal matrix during embryonic development, as early as the second trimester in humans. Vascularized brain organoids recapitulate many key features of neurovascular coupling during angiogenesis and neurogenesis, including the cell-fate specification of vascular cells, cortical neuron differentiation, and the reduction of cellular stress. Single-cell transcriptomics reveals profound dysfunction in neurovascular and gliovascular coupling as key features in several neurodegenerative diseases. The vasculature is increasingly recognized to impact brain function in health and disease across the life span. During embryonic brain development, angiogenesis and neurogenesis are tightly coupled, coordinating the proliferation, differentiation, and migration of neural and glial progenitors. In the adult brain, neurovascular interactions continue to play essential roles in maintaining brain function and homeostasis. This review focuses on recent advances that leverage single-cell transcriptomics of vascular cells to uncover their subtypes, their organization and zonation in the embryonic and adult brain, and how dysfunction in neurovascular and gliovascular interactions contributes to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Finally, we highlight key challenges for future research in neurovascular biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of solar energy as a renewable energy source has been increasing in recent years. Photovoltaic (PV) panel technology is an important alternative to fossil fuels for the future energy needs of the world. PV panels, which have a lifespan of about 25–30 years, have a potential for photovoltaic waste in the coming years due to the increase in their production. There is a remarkable difference between the amount of CO 2 emissions generated during the production of a PV panel and the amount of CO 2 emissions generated during its recycling. When recycled, the environmental damage of PV panels is significantly reduced. Recycling also helps economically recover materials some of which are rare in nature. In this study, the structures of the components that compose PV panels are emphasized. The estimated waste projection of the PV for the world, Turkiye and, as a case study, Karapinar Solar Power Plant was analyzed until 2050. The harms of PV panels to the environment, people's health and their recycling potential were scrutinised. Furthermore, the carbon dioxide emissions and economic costs of the PV panels produced by recycling and the panels produced without recycling are compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People with cystic fibrosis carrying residual function (RF) mutations are considered to have a mild disease course. This may influence caregivers and patients on how intensive the treatments should be. Characterize disease severity of patients carrying RF mutations, using the European CF Society Patient Registry (ECFSPR) data. Demographic, clinical characteristics, lung function and death probability of patients carrying at least one RF mutation were analyzed and compared to patients homozygous to minimal function mutations (MF). Of the 44,594 eligible patients (median age 19.5 years, IQR 10–29.8), 6,636 (14.6%) carried RF mutations, and 37,958 (85.1%) MF mutations. Patients carrying RF mutations were older, diagnosed at a later age, had lower sweat chloride at diagnosis and better FEV1pp at each age group. However, their FEV1pp declined with age and rates of chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa increased with age. A significant number of patients with RF had FEV1pp similar to patients with MF at each age group. 4.5% of RF patients were treated with oxygen and 2.61% had a lung transplant. With increasing age, 26.6% of RF patients were treated with pancreatic enzymes associated with a more severe lung disease. RF patients had shortened life spans, with mortality starting around the age of 20 years. Patients carrying an RF mutations experience a decline of pulmonary function with age, leading to life-shortening. Standard of care therapies and augmenting CFTR function may improve their survival and quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteocytes act as bone mechanosensors, regulators of osteoblast/osteoclast activity and mineral homeostasis, however, knowledge about their functional/morphological changes throughout life is limited. We used quantitative backscattered electron imaging (qBEI) to investigate osteocyte lacunae sections (OLS) as a 2D-surrogate characterizing the osteocytes. OLS characteristics, the density of mineralized osteocyte lacunae (i.e., micropetrotic osteocytes, md.OLS-Density in nb/mm2) and the average degree of mineralization (Ca Mean in weight% calcium) of cortex and spongiosa were analyzed in transiliac biopsy samples from healthy individuals under 30 (n=59) and over 30 years (n=50) (i.e., before and after the age of peak bone mass, respectively). We found several differences in OLS-characteristics: 1). Inter-individually between the age groups: OLS-Density and OLS-Porosity were reduced by about 20% in older individuals in spongiosa and in cortex versus younger probands (both, p < 0.001). 2). Intra-individually between bone compartments: OLS-Density was higher in the cortex, +18.4%, p < 0.001 for younger and +7.6%, p < 0.05 for older individuals. Strikingly, the most frequent OLS nearest-neighbor distance was about 30 µm in both age groups and at both bone sites revealing a preferential organization of osteocytes in clusters. OLS-Density was negatively correlated with Ca Mean in both spongiosa and cortex (both, p < 0.001). Few mineralized OLS were found in young individuals along with an increase of md.OLS-Density with age. In summary, this transiliac bone sample analysis of 200000 OLS from 109 healthy individuals throughout lifespan reveals several age-related differences in OLS characteristics. Moreover, our study provides reference data from healthy individuals for different ages to be used for diagnosis of bone abnormalities in diseases. Osteocytes are bone cells embedded in lacunae within the mineralized bone matrix and have a key role in the bone metabolism and the mineral homeostasis. Not easily accessible, we used quantitative backscattered electron imaging to determine precisely number and shape descriptors of the osteocyte lacunae in 2D. We analyzed transiliac biopsy samples from 109 individuals with age distributed from 2 to 95 years. Compact cortical bone showed constantly higher lacunar density than cancellous bone but the lacunar density in both bone tissue decreased with age before the peak bone mass age at 30 years and stabilized or even increased after this age. This extensive study provides osteocyte lacunae reference data from healthy individuals usable for bone pathology diagnosis. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adults with schizophrenia have increased risk of suicide with highest risk among younger adults. We investigated whether means of suicide among these adults were different from the general population. This retrospective longitudinal analysis used the National Death Index to characterize means of suicide among 4 cohorts of Medicare patients with schizophrenia (2007–2016) by age: 18 to 34, 35 to 44, 45 to 54, and aged 55+ years. Means of suicide were categorized by age at death and sex. Adjusted hazard ratios were calculated for common means. Mortality rates per 100,000 person-years were estimated by age group stratified by sex, and standardized to the general population by age, sex, and race-ethnicity using standardized mortality ratios. 668,836 adults were included with 2218 suicide decedents: 1444 men and 774 women. The most common means of suicide was poisoning (36.8 %), with a significant sex difference by means: 55.9 % of women died by poisoning, 13.8 % by firearms, 11.0 % by hanging and 9.4 % by jumping, while among men suicide by poisoning (26.6 %), firearms (25.5 %), and hanging (24.2 %) were similar, followed by jumping (12.0 %). Suicide by poisoning among the schizophrenia cohort was 10 times that of the general population, while suicide by firearm was twice that of the general population. Means of suicide differed for patients with schizophrenia compared to the general population: poisoning was the most common means among men and women with schizophrenia, while firearms accounted for over half of all suicides in the general U.S. population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Polygenic risk for Alzheimer's disease (AD-PRS) explains proportion of AD. • AD-PRS has been linked to alterations in cerebral blood flow (CBF). • AD-PRS is linked to reduced CBF in young and old samples. • AD risk gene expression was negatively associated with CBF across the brain in both samples. • AD genetic risk influences CBF across the lifespan, potentially via proximal gene expression. Cerebrovascular dysregulation such as altered cerebral blood flow (CBF) can be observed in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and may precede symptom onset. Genome wide association studies show that AD has a polygenic aetiology, providing a tool for studying AD susceptibility across the lifespan. Here, we ascertain whether the AD genetic risk effects on CBF previously observed (Chandler et al., 2019) are also present in later life. Consistent with our prior observations, AD genetic risk score (AD-GRS) was associated with reduced CBF in the ADNI sample. The regional association between AD-GRS and CBF were also spatially similar. Furthermore, CBF was related to the regional mRNA transcript expression of AD risk genes proximal to AD-GRS risk loci. These observations suggest that AD risk alleles may reduce neurovascular process such as CBF, potentially via mechanisms such as regional expression of proximal AD risk genes as an antecedent AD pathophysiology. Our observations help establish processes that underpin AD genetic risk-related reductions in CBF as a therapeutic target prior to the onset of neurodegeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been established experimentally that nano-bubbles exist in water for weeks, even months. This contradicts the theory that predicts life span for such small bubbles being on the scale of milliseconds. Nano-bubbles are charged due to adsorption of OH- ions, which creates electric double layers (EDL) at their interfaces. Suggestion has been made that EDL could be responsible for nano-bubbles longevity, but the mechanism remains unknown. We propose such a mechanism here. There is one overlooked feature of the EDL – water molecules in the first layer at interface are oriented, which is supported by many experiments and theory overviewed here. EDL electric field has a gradient component, which exerts force on these oriented molecules dipole moments. We show that it is practically equal to the Young-Laplace force but opposite in direction. It ensures balance of normal forces at interface and creates a pressure gradient that prevents leakage diffusion flux from the stable bubble. In addition, oriented water dipole moments repel each other. This effect is similar to the repulsion of surfactant polar groups, which are known to counterbalance surface tension in tangential direction and stabilize bubbles. Oriented water molecules should cause the same effect. Balance of forces acting on the bubble interface leads to the equation for the stable bubble size that agrees with experimental trends. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Downy mildew disease, which is caused by Peronospora aestivalis (Mastigomycotina: Peronosporaceae) and the spotted alfalfa aphid Therioaphis trifolii (Hemiptera: Aphididae), affects Medicago sativa (alfalfa) production. P. aestivalis and T. trifolii frequently occur together under natural conditions. In this study, alfalfa- P. aestivalis - T. trifolii were used as the research objects to explore the effects of different degrees of P. aestivalis infection on the growth and reproduction of T. trifolii , and the life table of T. trifolii population was constructed based on the fecundity parameters. The results revealed that alfalfa downy mildew infection had a significant effect on T. trifolii population. T. trifolii fed on mildly infected alfalfa plants exhibited the longest life span (18.9 d) and the highest number of nymphs (30.6) compared to those fed on alfalfa in other treatments. In terms of population life table parameters, the intrinsic rate of increase (0.626) and finite rate of increase (1.869) of T. trifolii fed on moderately infected alfalfa were the highest, and the generation time (8.310) and population doubling time (1.108) were the shortest, indicating that moderately infected alfalfa are conducive to T. trifolii population development. This study provides insights into the effects of alfalfa downy mildew on the main reproductive parameters and population of T. trifolii on M. sativa. • Therioaphis trifolii and Peronospora aestivalis often occur on alfalfa leaves at the same time. • The occurrence of Peronospora aestivalis can effectively affect the growth and development of Therioaphis trifolii. • There were differences in the growth and development of Therioaphis trifolii under different degrees of infection. • Feeding on moderately infected alfalfa is more beneficial to the reproduction of Therioaphis trifolii population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) collectors developed over the years have achieved reduced photovoltaic (PV) panel temperature and improved electrical efficiency mostly based on single-tube spiral and serpentine configurations of the cooling pipes. However, the design and analysis of PVT collector configurations incorporating multiple serpentine tubes, capable of simultaneously reducing both the average PV panel temperature and temperature non-uniformity within the panel, are rare. The present work introduces two novel designs PVT collector systems by incorporating dual-tube arrangements, namely, the Dual-Tube Uni-Directional (DTUD) and the Dual-Tube Opposite-Directional (DTOD) systems. The new collectors' performance is numerically analysed through three-dimensional (3D) simulations. The highest net powers are obtained with 32 cooling loops in both the DTUD and DTOD designs for the given flow rate and panel area. The DTUD-based PVT system yields up to 10.39 % and 10.36 % gains in electrical efficiency and net power, respectively. On the contrary, the DTOD system also results in gains of these parameters, albeit marginally less than the DTUD arrangement. However, the DTOD arrangement results in reduced maximum PV panel temperature, which can positively impact the panel's life span. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC), an advanced type of concrete material that shows superior mechanical and durability performance, brings promises of reducing the material usage and increasing the life span of conventional concrete structures. However, the environmental benefits of adopting UHPC have not been well understood because of a lack of life-cycle comparison between UHPC and conventional concrete structures. To address this gap, a structural, corrosion, and carbon emissions analysis of UHPC and concrete beams of similar functions (i.e., strength and stiffness) was completed. In addition to adopting UHPC in the full section, a new composite beam concept was also proposed to have UHPC in the compression zone only. Based on finite element (FE) analysis, UHPC beams were designed to show similar stiffness and strength as the concrete beams while the cross-section areas were greatly reduced. Service life spans were then determined through a time-dependent multi-physics modeling framework. Subsequently, analysis regarding the material costs, initial and life-cycle carbon emission was done. The simulation results show that the composite beam can significantly reduce cross-sectional area and self-weight with less than 13% increase in material costs. The carbon emissions of the composite beam was over 25% lower than that of the concrete beam, both in the initial and life-cycle range. Additionally, full UHPC beams could show similar initial carbon emission and around 48% lower life-cycle carbon emissions compared to the concrete beams. • Multi-physics time-dependent modeling approach predicts life spans of UHPC beams. • Carbon footprint of the composite beam was over 25% lower than concrete beam. • UHPC beam showed around 48% lower carbon footprint than concrete beam. • Structural performance before and after corrosion was compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article follows an increased interest in the octopus in both popular science and fiction. Octopuses have long held fascination and are commonly tied to processes of aging: Even though their life expectancy tends to be lower than that of humans, they are often framed as "old", not only by appearing as mythical creatures from an unknown past but also by appearing wise and intelligent. Whereas the octopus has been framed as Other, prominently by inspiring the aesthetics of alien life forms, recent examples have underlined the possibility of inter-species contact and communication. This article traces these moments of contact and investigates the role of aging in such fictional encounters. By focusing on two recent examples, Shelby Van Pelt's Remarkably Bright Creatures (2022) and Gina Chung's Sea Change (2023), it illustrates the ways that contemporary fiction narratively links the octopus to older age and discusses forms of non-human aging. • Octopuses have found increased engagement in popular fiction in recent years • Fictionalized octopuses are commonly related to processes of aging • Shelby Van Pelt's Remarkably Bright Creatures metaphorically links the aging experience of a 70-year-old widow with that of a giant Pacific octopus • In Gina Chung's Sea Change a mutated octopus confounds estimates of a supposed life span and human concepts of aging [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fetal programming is a core concept within the broader developmental origins of health and disease framework, which acknowledges the contribution of the prenatal and early postnatal environment to health across the life span. Fetal programming suggests that the fetus adapts to environmental exposures and that altered biological systems can have lasting effects on child and adult health. The theory derived from the widely replicated finding that infants who are smaller at birth are more likely to die of cardiovascular disease in later life.1 Although initially concerned with cardiometabolic phenotypes, the model has been extended to other systems, including neural development and psychiatric phenotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Reproductive history of women is of importance to estimate cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. One aspect of that history is the reproductive life span (RLS), the period between onset of menarche and menopause. Previous studies have indicated an increased risk associated with shorter RLS, but this has never previously been tested in Scandinavian women. Our aim was to investigate such associations in Swedish women.Study Design: We used observational data from the Malmö Diet Cancer Study (MDCS), which included 12,101 middle-aged women (mean age 60 years at baseline) born between 1923 and 1945 from Malmö, Sweden. Data on reproductive history was obtained from a questionnaire.Main Outcome Measures: Cox regression was used to estimate the association between quintiles (Q1-Q5) of RLS and incident fatal or non-fatal CVD events and total mortality during follow-up, adjusted for co-variates.Results: During a maximum of 28 years of follow-up, there were 2678 non-fatal CVD events and 5697 deaths. A shorter RLS was associated with an increased CVD risk (hazard ratio (HR) 1.19, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.06-1.34, p = 0.004) when comparing Q1 (RLS ≤ 32 years) with Q5 (RLS ≥ 40 years). The association remained significant when specifically controlling for history of hysterectomy and/or oophorectomy (HR 1.20, 95% CI 1.07-1.35, p = 0.002, for Q1 vs. Q5). A shorter RLS was also associated with a higher mortality risk (HR 1.21, 95% CI 1.11-1.31, p = 0.001, for Q1 vs. Q5, and HR 1.10, 95% CI 1.02-1.20, p = 0.02, for Q2 vs. Q5).Conclusion: A shorter RLS was associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events and total mortality in Swedish women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CAG repeat expansions in the ATXN2 (ataxin-2) gene can cause the autosomal dominant disorder spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) as well as increase the risk of ALS. Abnormal molecular, motor, and neurophysiological phenotypes in SCA2 mouse models are normalized by lowering ATXN2 transcription, and reduction of nonmutant Atxn2 expression has been shown to increase the life span of mice overexpressing the TDP-43 (transactive response DNA-binding protein 43 kDa) ALS protein, demonstrating the potential benefits of targeting ATXN2 transcription in humans. Here, we describe a quantitative high-throughput screen to identify compounds that lower ATXN2 transcription. We screened 428,759 compounds in a multiplexed assay using an ATXN2-luciferase reporter in human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK-293) cells and identified a diverse set of compounds capable of lowering ATXN2 transcription. We observed dose-dependent reductions of endogenous ATXN2 in HEK-293 cells treated with procillaridin A, 17-dimethylaminoethylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin (17-DMAG), and heat shock protein 990 (HSP990), known inhibitors of HSP90 and Na+/K+-ATPases. Furthermore, HEK-293 cells expressing polyglutamine-expanded ATXN2-Q58 treated with 17-DMAG had minimally detectable ATXN2, as well as normalized markers of autophagy and endoplasmic reticulum stress, including STAU1 (Staufen 1), molecular target of rapamycin, p62, LC3-II (microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3II), CHOP (C/EBP homologous protein), and phospho-eIF2α (eukaryotic initiation factor 2α). Finally, bacterial artificial chromosome ATXN2-Q22 mice treated with 17-DMAG or HSP990 exhibited highly reduced ATXN2 protein abundance in the cerebellum. Taken together, our study demonstrates inhibition of HSP90 or Na+/K+-ATPases as potentially effective therapeutic strategies for treating SCA2 and ALS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent times additive manufacturing (AM) has emerged as a crucial manufacturing process for custom-made metal workpieces. Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) is a rising technology that can cut back material usage and manufacturing time due to its higher deposition rate. This research aims to develop an efficient 3D thermal model to simulate the WAAM process and correlate the temperature with deposition quality. A moving heat source based on Goldac's double ellipsoidal model was designed using the DFLUX subroutine. The element birth technique has been used to activate the various layers. The developed model is validated with experimentally observed temperature, and a good correlation is obtained. The effect of power and scan speed on the WAAM process has been studied to develop a relationship between maximum temperature, liquid lifetime, and porosity. An X-ray was done to check the porosity of the additively manufactured specimen. At higher power and lower scan speed, the liquid lifetime was observed to be increased along with the increase in depth of the molten pool leading to the formation of porosity. In other cases, at lower power and higher scan speed, the liquid lifetime was observed to be decreased along with the decrease in depth of the molten pool. The higher scan speeds resulted in higher cooling rates, which caused a lack of fusion between the layers of the product. In this case, a ball-shaped melt deposit was observed due to a lower deposition rate due to lower power. • A thermal model is developed to simulate WAAM and is validated with the experimentally observed temperature. • The element birth technique has been used to activate the various layers during the process. • A correlation between maximum temperature, liquid lifetime, and porosity is established. • Temperature contour and liquid lifespan can predict the formation of porosity during the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel, specific, and sensitive isotope diluted LC-MS/MS method was developed for simultaneous quantitation of 16 steroid hormone metabolites. • Steroid metabolites in serum from healthy infants, children, adolescents, and adults aged 0.17 months to 77 years (n = 2458) were analysed. • Sex- and age specific reference intervals of 15 steroid metabolites were established. Reference intervals covering the whole life span for all the metabolites in the steroid hormone biosynthesis quantified by sensitive and robust analytical methods are sparse or not existing. To develop a state-of-the-art LC-MS/MS method for simultaneous quantification of multiple steroid metabolites and to establish detailed sex- and age-specific reference intervals for 16 steroid metabolites. An isotope diluted LC-MS/MS method was developed for simultaneous quantitation of 16 steroid hormones. Serum samples from cross-sectional cohorts of healthy infants, children, adolescents, and adults aged 0.17 months to 77 years (n = 2458) were analysed. With this novel, specific, and sensitive LC-MS/MS method, it was possible to quantify progesterone, 17-hydroxypregnenolone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, androstenedione, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, 11-deoxycorticosterone, corticosterone, 11-deoxycortisol, cortisol, and cortisone in ≥90 % of the samples, while estrone sulfate, aldosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone were quantified in 77 %, 75 % and 60 % of the samples, respectively. 21-deoxycortisol was only detectable in 2.5 % of samples from healthy subjects. Sex- and age-dependent fluctuations observed in minipuberty, puberty and adulthood including the menopausal transition were modelled. This enabled us to establish valid reference intervals from birth to late adult life for both males and females. Detailed sex- and age-specific reference intervals of multiple, simultaneously quantified steroid metabolites by a novel and specific LC-MS/MS method provides a valuable tool for clinical practice and for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium batteries play a crucial role in powering modern technology due to their high energy density, long life span, low self-discharge rate, making them indispensable for numerous applications. Accurate information on the state of charge (SOC) is crucial, as it not only enhances battery management but also mitigates range anxiety. Previous research has proposed various SOC estimation methods, focused on principles, model evaluation, and verification. Several reviews have summarized these methods, but little has specifically focused on discussing the equivalent circuit model (ECM) methods, which are renowned for their physical relevance and accuracy. This review examines various commercial lithium battery models, analyzing the rationale behind the ECM methods' selection and the associated evaluation techniques. It offers a thorough overview of lithium battery characteristics, modeling, and parameter identification methods. Moreover, this review identifies existing limitations and challenges, and proposes future directions in testing setups and evaluation methodologies to improve SOC estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we report on the synthesis of a novel zinc(II) coordination compound [ZnL 2 ] (1), which was readily obtained from the reaction of Zn(OAc)·2H 2 O and N′ -(pyridin-2-ylmethylene)nicotinohydrazide (HL) in methanol. Recrystallization of 1 from dimethylformamide under ambient conditions allowed to produce yellow block-like crystals of 1 ·H 2 O. Complex 1 ·H 2 O was characterized by FT-IR and 1H NMR spectroscopy, while its optical properties were studied by UV–vis and spectrofluorimetry in methanol. The crystal structure of the title complex was revealed by single crystal X-ray diffraction and further explored in detail by the Hirshfeld surface analysis. Theoretical investigations based on the DFT calculations have also been applied to show the electronic properties of complex 1. The antitumor activities of the parent ligand HL and complex 1 were studied using Dalton's lymphoma malignant cancer model. Both compounds were found to induce concentration-dependent cytotoxicity and apoptotic cell death, leading to a decrease in cell viability, body weight, and tumor volume in mice with the superior activity of complex 1 over HL. Mice treated with complex 1 demonstrated an increase in life span with a survival period of 23 days. Finally, using a molecular docking approach, we have probed complex 1 to inhibit the recombinant mouse tumor-necrosis factor alpha (mTNF). [ZnL 2 ] (1), obtained from N′ -(pyridin-2-ylmethylene)nicotinohydrazide (HL), is reported. DFT studies revealed its electronic properties. The antitumor activities of HL and 1 were also studied. Mice treated with 1 demonstrated an increase in life span. According to molecular docking results, 1 can inhibit the recombinant mouse tumor-necrosis factor alpha (mTNF). [Display omitted] • [ZnL 2 ] (1) obtained from N′ -(pyridin-2-ylmethylene)nicotinohydrazide (HL) is reported • The antitumor activities of HL and 1 were studied • HL and 1 induce cytotoxicity and apoptotic cell death with the superior activity of 1 • Mice treated with 1 demonstrated an increase in life span [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZrO 2 –SnO 2 –ZrSnO 4 composite nanofibers (CNFs) were fabricated by an electrospinning technique in three different ratios by volume (%v/v). Changing the composition ratio of CNFs affected the temperature and sinter time variation of both the band gap and the flash sintering (FS) phenomenon. FS experiments were used at a current cut-off of 3.77 mA/mm2 under thermal (844–878 °C) and electric field (420 V/mm). Highly dense CNFs were obtained in less than 80 s with a maximum power absorption of 1.58 W/mm3. In addition to the FS process, CNFs were sintered with the conventional sintering (CS) method at 1200 °C for 1 h. As the amount of Sn in the composition (%v/v) increases, the density increases, but the hardness value decreases. The FS process was proven to produce faster, denser, and harder material than CS. Long-term and permanent results are obtained by designing biocompatible nanocomposite materials in health. However, determining the long-term effects of CNFs, which are considered non-toxic, is necessary. Drosophila melanogaster female food was covered with these different v/v% ratios CNFs (ZrSn, Zr2Sn; 2ZrSn) and contact by life span: The effects were evaluated on movement, weight, egg production, longevity, and antioxidant system (Superoxide dismutase-SOD, catalase-CAT, glutathione-GSH, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil-DPPH). It can be said that Zr2S CNFs were not toxic by not changing the life span, egg production, climbing, and biochemical parameters of the fly. However, it was determined that CNFs used in ZrSn and 2ZrSn ratios slightly reduced the behavioral (movement and longevity) and antioxidant activities (SOD and CAT) of the individual. [Display omitted] • CS, density, and hardness tests of ZrO 2 -SnO 2 -ZrSnO 4 CNFs (ternary system) were investigated. • The FS, yielded a short-time process, denser and harder compositions compared to CS. • The long-term toxicity of FS ZrO 2 -SnO 2 -ZrSnO 4 CNFs did not produce short-term toxicity using Drosophila melanogaster. • In aging flies, ZrSn and 2ZrSn CNFs decreased SOD and CAT activity and resulting in weight gain and reduced locomotion. • Flies in groups 2 and 4 had a reduced lifespan because of continuous contact with CNFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well-established that higher socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with improved brain health. However, the effects of SES across different life stages on brain structure and function is still equivocal. In this systematic review, we aimed to synthesise findings from life course neuroimaging studies that investigated the structural and functional brain correlates of SES across the life span. The results indicated that higher SES across different life stages were independently and cumulatively related to neural outcomes typically reflective of greater brain health (e.g., increased cortical thickness, grey matter volume, fractional anisotropy, and network segregation) in adult individuals. The results also demonstrated that the corticolimbic system was most commonly impacted by socioeconomic disadvantages across the life span. This review highlights the importance of taking into account SES across the life span when studying its effects on brain health. It also provides directions for future research including the need for longitudinal and multimodal research that can inform effective policy interventions tailored to specific life stages. • Higher SES across different life stages were independently and cumulatively related to greater brain health • The corticolimbic system was most commonly impacted by socioeconomic disadvantages across the life span • Further longitudinal and multimodal research that investigates the impact of life course SES on brain health is needed • Life course SES studies can inform effective policy interventions tailored to specific ages and life stages [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health problems associated with aging are a major public health concern for the future. Aging is a complex process with wide intervariability among individuals. Therefore, there is a need for innovative public health strategies that target factors associated with aging and the development of tools to assess the effectiveness of these strategies accurately. Novel approaches to measure biological age, such as epigenetic clocks, have become relevant. These clocks use non-sequential variable information from the genome and employ mathematical algorithms to estimate biological age based on DNA methylation levels. Therefore, in the present study, we comprehensively review the current status of the epigenetic clocks and their associations across the human phenome. We emphasize the potential utility of these tools in an epidemiological context, particularly in evaluating the impact of public health interventions focused on promoting healthy aging. Our review describes associations between epigenetic clocks and multiple traits across the life and health span. Additionally, we highlighted the evolution of studies beyond mere associations to establish causal mechanisms between epigenetic age and disease. We explored the application of epigenetic clocks to measure the efficacy of interventions focusing on rejuvenation. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Image processing and liquid level identification for the gas–liquid mixing process in a top-blown reactor. [Display omitted] • New model for liquid level height in top-blown gas–liquid reactor is established. • Average prediction accuracy of new hybrid model is improved by 1.18 %∼8.06 % • The accuracy of hybrid model supported by 0–1 test for chaos reaches 98.81 % • Relationship between the material handling capacity and lance life is obtained; • Demonstration is provided for investigation of furnace lining life and lance life; Spatter characteristics of liquid phase in a non-ferrous metal molten bath were critical for influencing the span life of submerged lance. However, the high temperature and non-visual flow field in the molten bath complicate the understanding of liquid phase spatter and the investigation of the life span of submerged lance. In this work, the fluctuation of liquid level (i.e., spatter of liquid phase in molten bath) was investigated by establishing a hydraulic model (i.e., top-blown gas–liquid two-phase stirred tank). Specially, a hybrid framework integrating complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise, variational mode decomposition, 0–1 test for chaos and radial basis function neural network were proposed and employed to predict the fluctuation of liquid level in the stirred tank. Then, the chaos intensity calculated using the 0–1 test for chaos was served as an indicator for the second decomposition component and a sixth-order polynomial fitting was used to reveal a relationship between the handling capacity of mineral powder and the life span of submerged lance. Results shown that the hybrid framework enhanced the prediction accuracy of the liquid level time series by 1.18 % to 8.06 %. Furthermore, the average prediction accuracy for each operating condition exceeded 96 % along with a peak accuracy of 97.93 %. These results offer valuable insights for the studies on the life span of submerged lance, as well as the life span of furnace lining involving liquid phase spatter. In addition, applying the hybrid framework to the life span time series of submerged lance would allow for the handling trends prediction of mineral powder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evaluation and prediction on failure of friction pair are important for improving equipment reliability and life span. In engineering practice, researchers often determine the severe-wear stage by monitoring changes in wear and the friction coefficient. However, existing criteria for evaluating the wear process are nebulous, leading to the ambiguous relationship between the measured parameters and the wear process which cannot be precisely quantified. In this study, based on dissipation theory, an exploration into the system entropy production rate variations throughout the wear process has been conducted. This investigation reveals that entropy production rate variations at different wear stages, providing a basis for segmenting the wear process. Through experimental methods, a clear transitional stage with substantial entropy production rate variations between the mild-wear and severe-wear stages has been discovered. These findings gave a novel method for predicting wear failure. The efficacy of this proposed approach has been validated by experiment, thus laying a theoretical groundwork for early failure prediction of critical components principally prone to wear failure. Furthermore, this work provides the foundation for the construction of visual data system in friction-wear digital twin systems. • Utilizing the principle of friction dissipation as an effectively method to identify the stages of wear. • Discovering a distinct transitional stage between the mild-wear stage and the severe-wear stage. • Constructing an estimate method for characterizing the wear process. • Practical examples are provided to demonstrate the application of these concepts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding senescence in semelparous species not only deepens our knowledge of the evolution of aging but also highlights the diversity of life strategies that have evolved in the natural world. This terminal phase occurs at the end of the lifecycle and is particularly evident in the common octopus, Octopus vulgaris , Cuvier 1797, a semelparous species with terminal reproduction. The aim of the present work was to document the natural process of senescence in specimens raised in captivity for two consecutive generations and the differences in morphology, behaviour and functional traits between the two sexes. Both sexes showed similar affections in the skin, with unhealed wounds, paler colors, and white lesions. At the same temperature males lived longer (six to seven months) than females, and showed extensive arm tip damage, with the exception of the hectocotylus that was fully functional until the very last day. Females, contrarily to males, lose 35.4–46.8% of their body weight during brooding and senescence. Uncommon behaviours were registered during this terminal phase like egg laying outside of the den, egg ingestion or copulation between males. These observations provide new data that will help to better understand this terminal phase and the natural processes occurring in both sexes at the end of their life cycle. • Octopus vulgaris female life span is shorter than that of males at the same temperature. • Senescence comes earlier and is more apparent in O. vulgaris females than in males. • Octopus males suffer necrosis of all arm tips except in the sexual arm (hectocotylus). • Males of O. vulgaris are reproductively fully functional until their very last day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The metastatic dissemination and underlying mechanisms of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) remain insufficiently understood. In this study, we identified the essential role of KLF2 in suppressing the metastasis of ccRCC. Downregulation of KLF2 detected by immunohistochemistry in primary metastatic ccRCC was remarkably related to poor clinical outcomes. Overexpression of KLF2 in vitro inhibited growth, migration and invasion of RCC cells. Analysis of clinical specimens revealed that there is a close correlation between KLF2 and GPX4 in ccRCC. Mechanistically, KLF2 deficiency is sufficient to inhibit ferroptosis on account of the impairment of transcriptional repression of GPX4 and thus promotes the migration and invasion of RCC cells. Reverting KLF2 expression in vivo decreased pulmonary metastatic lesions and prolonged life span of mice, whereas GPX4 overexpression reversed these properties. Overall, our results established a novel critical pathway that drives human ccRCC invasion and metastasis, which could be a promising target regarding to the therapies of advanced ccRCC in the clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Using indicator amino acid oxidation methodology, the mean dietary requirement of adult dogs for methionine (Met) was estimated to be ∼66% of the current recommended allowance. Dogs fed a diet formulated to provide the estimated mean Met requirement for 32 wk maintained plasma Met, seemingly supported by betaine oxidation.Objective: To gain a better understanding of the metabolic changes that were associated with supporting plasma Met when dogs were fed a limited Met diet over 32 wk, we analyzed plasma samples taken from that study using a data-driven metabolomics approach.Methods: Labrador retrievers (20 females/13 males; mean age: 4.9 y; range: 2.0-7.9 y) were fed semi-purified, nutritionally complete diets. After 4 wk of feeding a control diet (DL-Met; 1.37 g/1000 kcal), 17 dogs remained on this diet and 16 were transitioned to a test diet formulated to the estimated mean Met requirement (0.55 g/1000 kcal), with dietary total sulfur amino acid maintained with additional l-cystine (Cys). Dogs were individually fed diets to maintain a stable body weight at an ideal body condition score for 32 wk. Plasma samples from fasted blood collected at baseline and 8 and 32 wk were analyzed using untargeted metabolic profiling.Results: Analysis of metabolites (n = 593) confirmed our primary findings (increased Met, betaine, and dimethylglycine). Metabolite changes consistent with repartitioning choline to support Met cycling included reduced pools of lipids derived via phosphatidylethanolamine N-methyltransferase and enhanced fatty acid oxidation. Some changes were consistent with metabolomics studies reported in other species that used interventions known to extend life span (caloric- and Met-restricted diets or feeding strategy).Conclusions: Changes in the plasma metabolome were consistent with reported adaptations to support Met-dependent activities. We propose that feeding a limited-Met, high-Cys diet using the estimated mean Met requirement in adult Labrador retrievers alters regulation of the Met cycle, thereby altering metabolism, similar to interventions that extend life span. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low Energy Adaptive Clustering Hierarchy (LEACH) algorithm has various demerits like picking of cluster head during each round which depletes energy of the node, non consideration of residual energy to name a few. Due to this, researchers are focusing on ways to boost the LEACH algorithm and making it more efficient for practical use. To address the issues of LEACH like the non uniformity of the amount of cluster heads and disregard of the unconsumed power of the nodes, this paper proposes an enhanced algorithm called ESO-LEACH. In this work, meta-heuristic particle swarm enhancement is utilized for initially clustering the sensor nodes. The concept of advanced nodes and enhanced set of rules for CH election is used to minimize the random nature of the algorithm in the proposed ESO-LEACH. Python-based recreation outputs show that ESO-LEACH outflanks conventional LEACH, and enhances the network's life span. The python based results obtained for the proposed ESO-LEACH algorithm and by performing its comparison with an existing LEACH algorithm shows that lifespan of network using ESO-LEACH is coming out to be almost double than the lifespan of network using LEACH protocol which indicates that the enhanced proposed algorithm is successful in extending network lifespan adequately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the impact of different canal tapers and access cavity designs on the life span of endodontically treated mandibular first molars using the finite element method. Finite element analysis was performed on simulated models with 3 access cavity designs (traditional, conservative, and truss). The mesial canals were prepared to either constant tapers of 25/.04 and 25/.06 or a variable taper corresponding to the cumulative canal preparation shapes of TruNatomy Prime (Dentsply Sirona, Charlotte, NC) and ProTaper Gold F2 (Dentsply Sirona). The distal canals in all models had a 40/.04 preparation. Using occlusal fingerprint analysis, all models were subjected to cyclic occlusal loading until model failure. The number of cycles until failure, the location of failure, stress distribution patterns, and the maximum von Mises stresses were assessed. The traditional access models showed a lower life span than the conservative and truss models regardless of the canal taper, whereas there was not a notable difference in the conservative and truss models. The stresses migrated apically along the root surface and remarkably on the mesial aspect of the mesial root and the furcation area's outer surface. After root canal preparation with different tapers, there were no evident changes in the pattern and magnitude of the stresses distributed along the root surface. The life span of the tooth is affected more significantly by the access cavity design than the root canal preparation taper. Because stress patterns migrate apically rather than concentrate in the pericervical area, crack initiation and propagation might occur anywhere on the root surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• There is a paucity of research and development in outcome measures to evaluate function in childhood FSHD. • Estimated intra-rater test re-test reliability for both adult and pediatric versions of the FSHD-COM is excellent. • Estimated correlations of both versions of the FSHD-COM with other measures were moderate to very strong. • The FSHD-COM and FSHD-COM Peds have potential to measure physical function across the lifespan in FSHD. This study aims to investigate intra-rater reliability and construct validity of the Facioscapulohumeral Dystrophy Composite Outcome Measure (FSHD-COM), in childhood FSHD. Participants included eighteen children with FSHD, and matched healthy controls. Reliability data were collected from 15 participants with FSHD over two testing sessions. Validity data were collected from all participants. Participants with FSHD completed; the FSHD-COM (and modified pediatric version), Motor Function Measure-32 (MFM-32), FSHD Severity Scales, Performance of the Upper Limb 2.0, Pediatric Quality of Life™ Neuromuscular Module and pediatric FSHD Health-Index Questionnaire. Both versions of the FSHD-COM showed excellent intra-rater reliability (ICC 1,2 > 0.99, lower 95%CI > 0.98) with a Minimal Detectable Change (MDC95%) of ≤14.5%. The FSHD-COM had robust and widespread correlations with other related outcome measures. The FSHD-COM versions and 6 min walk test effectively discriminated between children with and without FSHD; the MFM-32 and 10 m walk/run test did not. Ceiling effects were not observed on either version of the FSHD-COM. Reliability and validity findings in this childhood FSHD study concord with estimates in adults. Both versions of the FSHD-COM were effective in discriminating disease in children with mild FSHD symptoms. The FSHD-COM has the potential to be a useful measure of function across the life span. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Milk is an evolutionary benefit for humans. For infants, it offers optimal nutrients for normal growth, neural development, and protection from harmful microbes. Humans are the only mammals who drink milk throughout their life. Lipids in colostrum originate mostly from milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) droplets extruded from the mammary gland. The MFGM gained much interest as a potential nutraceutical, due to their high phospholipid (PL), ganglioside (GD), and protein contents. In this review, we focused on health effects of MFGM ingredients and dairy food across the life span, especially on neurodevelopment, cardiometabolic health, and frailty in older adults. The MFGM supplements to infants and children reduced gastrointestinal and respiratory tract infections and improved neurodevelopment due to the higher content of protein, PL, and GD in MFGM. The MFGM formulas containing PL and GD improved brain myelination and fastened nerve conduction speed, resulting in improved behavioral developments. Administration of MFGM-rich ingredients improved insulin sensitivity and decreased inflammatory markers, LDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides by lowering intestinal absorption of cholesterol and increasing its fecal excretion. The MFGM supplements, together with exercise, improved ambulatory activities, leg muscle mass, and muscle fiber velocity in older adults. There are great variations in the composition of lipids and proteins in MFGM products, which make comparisons of the different studies impossible. In addition, investigations of the individual MFGM components are required to evaluate their specific effects and molecular mechanisms. Although we are currently only beginning to understand the possible health effects of MFGM products, the current MFGM supplementation trials as presented in this review have shown significant clinical health benefits across the human life span, which are worth further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• ADHD patients are at increased risk of accidents and injuries, however risk changes over the life span. • Types of accidents and injuries in ADHD differ over the life span. • ADHD medication seems to decrease the risk of accidents and injuries in all ages. • ADHD with mental disorder comorbidities appears to show further augmented accident and injury risk. Studies have demonstrated an increased risk of accidents and injuries in children, adolescents and adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, little is known about how accident risk may alter over the lifespan. Additionally, it would be important to know if the most common types of accidents and injuries differ in ADHD patients over different age groups. Furthermore, there is increasing evidence of an ameliorating effect of ADHD medication on accident risk. Lastly, the underlying risk factors and causal mechanisms behind increased accident risk remain unclear. We therefore conducted a systematic review focusing on the above described research questions. Our results suggested that accident/injury type and overall risk changes in ADHD patients over the lifespan. ADHD medication appeared to be similarly effective at reducing accident risk in all age groups. However, studies with direct comparisons of accident/injuries and effects of medication at different age groups or in old age are still missing. Finally, comorbidities associated with ADHD such as substance abuse appear to further increase the accident/injury risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancing the energy density of aqueous rechargeable zinc-based batteries is critical for boosting their application in a variety of practical scenarios. Herein we demonstrate a strategy to improve specific energies of Zn//MnO 2 batteries in mild electrolyte via utilizing three-dimensional (3D) current collectors for both the anode and cathode. By electrodepositing limited amounts of Zn on surface-alloyed Ag mesh and coupling it with MnO 2 cathode electrodeposited on carbon cloth with no binder, the resultant batteries exhibit specific energy up to 253 and 196 Wh/kg (based on total mass of active materials) at negative-to-positive electrode capacity (N/P) ratios of 1:1 and 2:1. By elevating the working temperature to 35 °C, the specific energy and life span of the battery with N/P = 2 can be further increased to 216 Wh/kg and >225 cycles, respectively. The key to achieving a high specific energy relies primarily on the great reversibility of the Zn anode, which is conferred by the 3D Ag mesh. • Energy-dense aqueous Zn//MnO2 batteries are constructed by electrodepositing 2.5 mg/cm2 of MnO 2 on 3D carbon cloth and limited amount of Zn on 3D Ag mesh. • The specific energy of full cells based on dual 3D current collectors achieves 253 Wh/kg and 196 Wh/kg, respectively, with the negative-to-positive capacity ratio (N/P ratio) of 1:1 and 2:1 at room temperature. • At 35 °C, the specific energy and life span of full cell with N/P ratio of 2:1 increase to 216 Wh/kg and over 225 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Age-related hearing loss due to cochlear pathology is a major health concern. • Identifying the underlying mechanisms requires comparison of diverse animal models. • Comparative studies must consider lifespan disparities and species-specific traits. • The field should adopt strategies to foster investigation of diverse animal models. • Combining insights from animal models and humans is key to develop treatments. Age-related hearing loss affects a large and growing segment of the population, with profound impacts on quality of life. Age-related pathology of the cochlea—the mammalian hearing organ—underlies age-related hearing loss. Because investigating age-related changes in the cochlea in humans is challenging and often impossible, animal models are indispensable to investigate these mechanisms as well as the complex consequences of age-related hearing loss on the brain and behavior. In this review, we advocate for a comparative and interdisciplinary approach while also addressing the challenges of comparing age-related hearing loss across species with varying lifespans. We describe the experimental advantages and limitations as well as areas for future research in well-established models of age-related hearing loss, including mice, rats, gerbils, chinchillas, and birds. We also indicate the need to expand characterization of age-related hearing loss in other established animal models, especially guinea pigs, cats, and non-human primates, in which auditory function is well characterized but age-related cochlear pathology is understudied. Finally, we highlight the potential of emerging animal models for advancing our understanding of age-related hearing loss, including deer mice, with their notably extended lifespans and preserved hearing, naked mole rats, with their exceptional longevity and extensive vocal communications, as well as zebrafish, which offer genetic tractability and suitability for drug screening. Ultimately, a comparative and interdisciplinary approach in auditory research, combining insights from various animal models with human studies, is key to robust and reliable research outcomes that better advance our understanding and treatment of age-related hearing loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The retina has been considered a "window to the brain" and shares similar innervation by the dopaminergic system with the cortex in terms of an unequal distribution of D1 and D2 receptors. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview that Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), a non-invasive imaging technique, which provides an "in vivo" representation of the retina, shows promise to be used as a surrogate marker of dopaminergic neuromodulation in cognition. Overall, most evidence supports reduced retinal thickness in individuals with dopaminergic dysregulation (e.g., patients with Parkinson's Disease, non-demented older adults) and with poor cognitive functioning. By using the theoretical framework of metacontrol, we derive hypotheses that retinal thinning associated to decreased dopamine (DA) levels affecting D1 families, might lead to a decrease in the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) affecting cognitive persistence (depending on D1-modulated DA activity) but not cognitive flexibility (depending on D2-modulated DA activity). We argue that the use of OCT parameters might not only be an insightful for cognitive neuroscience research, but also a potentially effective tool for individualized medicine with a focus on cognition. As our society progressively ages in the forthcoming years and decades, the preservation of cognitive abilities and promoting healthy aging will hold of crucial significance. OCT has the potential to function as a swift, non-invasive, and economical method for promptly recognizing individuals with a heightened vulnerability to cognitive deterioration throughout all stages of life. [Display omitted] • OCT is introduced a novel tool to monitor dopamine system function across the lifespan. • OCT is noninvasive, and inexpensive early warning system for cognitive decline associated with dopaminergic functioning. • OCT in interdisciplinary research on cognitive functions in aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social adversity, particularly early in life, can cause lifelong damage to health; by now, numerous studies examine this relationship in non-human species, producing some important themes: A) Captive animals readily lack ethological validity, giving a special place to studies of natural populations; one must appreciate though, that animal studies typically benefit humans who themselves lack ecological validity, namely Westernized subjects. B) Animal studies of the links between social adversity and psychiatric maladies potentially produce anthropomorphism; however, long-term study of our closest relatives demonstrates how convincingly another primate can, for example, experience grief, rather than display "grief-like" behavior. C) Are long-term consequences of social adversity best viewed as maladaptive and pathological, or as adaptive preparation for similar adversity later in life?; the growing literature casts light on when adversity's consequences are the purview of medicine or natural history. D) Studies examining sustained adversity and aging can increasingly distinguish between aging versus diseases of aging or cohort effects, and between aging effects arising from direct physiological mechanisms or indirect behavioral ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this obituary, the life and work of Professor James Albert Lock is summarized (if it is possible to summarize a life spanning more than seven decades and work presented in about 200 communications, including 160 refereed papers). The charming, peaceful and friendly personality of "Jim" (as he wished/liked to be called by his relatives, family and friends) is best described by personal recollections from the authors of this obituary. Personalities like Jim's make us still go on believing in the chances of the human species, whatever would be the foolish agitation of the world. • This paper is James Albert Lock's obnituary. • It summarizes his life and work. • It is complemented with personal recollectons from Gérard Gouesbet, Feng Xu and Philip L. Marston. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biogas is a promising renewable biofuel, but hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) and siloxanes are major obstacles in the conversion of bioenergy from biogas because they damage biogas-processing equipment. This study evaluated two biogas-purification systems for a simultaneous efficient removal of H 2 S and decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (D5), and compared their economic performance. An acidic biotrickling filter (BTF) was operated continuously for 90 days to investigate its performance under different H 2 S and D5 concentrations. Meanwhile, commercial iron-oxide-based adsorbents (IOBAs) and activated carbon (AC) were used in adsorption filters for H 2 S and D5, respectively. The results show that in terms of the ratio of D5 and H 2 S concentration (R D5:H2S) and pH of the recycling liquid, which are crucial BTF operating parameters, high elimination for both H 2 S (1.86 kg/(m3·d)) and D5 (0.282 kg/(m3·d)) was achieved at R D5:H2S of 3.7:16 and pH of 0.86. Economic analysis confirmed that BTF-AC was more profitable than IOBA-AC adsorption over a life span of 10 years because the pre-removal of D5 by a BTF significantly decreased the costs of IOBAs and AC, despite BTFs requiring a higher initial capital investment. In terms of the economic benefit of biogas production of 1200 Nm3/h, the competitive annual cost of 90.5 k$/year indicated that BTF was more profitable, yielding both cost saving and the benefit of providing heat. The advantage of BTF-AC adsorption was a more radical D5-abatament, enabling profit by selling the electricity produced from biogas to the grid. • Economic performance of two biogas purification systems was investigated. • The ratio of D5 and H 2 S concentration and pH are two crucial parameters of acidic BTF. • BTF & AC system is more profitable than iron-oxide-based adsorbent & AC adsorption. • Annual cost of acidic BTF was competitive 90.5 K$/year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We examined relationships of vitamin D status with over time changes in patterns of sleep in a longitudinal study of Whites and African-American urban middle-aged adults, while further testing effect modification by age group, sex and race and the potential roles of dietary and supplemental vitamin D.Methods: Data on 1,760 middle-aged participants in the Healthy Aging in Neighborhoods of Diversity Across the Life Span (HANDLS study: Age range at v2: 33-71y, mean±SD:53.0±8.8, % women: 58.4%, % African-American:60.3%) were used, with complete baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] serum concentration data, initial selected covariates and mediators, and initial and/or follow-up data on five sub-scales (sleep duration, daytime dysfunction, sleep disturbance, sleep latency and sleep quality) of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Mean±SD time between initial and follow-up visits: 4.1±1.5 years. Time-interval multiple mixed-effects linear regression models were used.Results: Upon multiple testing adjustment, among Whites, initial 25(OH)D was associated with better sleep duration [25(OH)D × TIME γ±SE: -0.027±0.011, P=0.017] and sleep quality [25(OH)D × TIME γ±SE: -0.026±0.010, P=0.008] over time, with heterogeneity by race found for both relationships (P<0.05 for 25(OH)D × TIME × Race in the un-stratified model). These relationships remained unaltered after further adjustment for dietary and supplemental vitamin D, indicating that this association may be largely explained by sunlight exposure.Limitations: Limitations included small sample size, selection bias, residual confounding and lack of objective sleep measures. Conclusions Vitamin D status, possibly through mechanisms involving sunlight exposure, was linked to a potential improvement in sleep duration and quality among White urban adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was designed to explore the in vivo -antioxidant capacity and the probable mechanism of AAPs-H, prepared from Auricularia auricula polysaccharides with the optimal extraction conditions by Box–Behnken design and acid hydrolysis, using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism. The effects of AAPs-H on the locomotion behavior, life span, antioxidant-related enzymes activities, and antioxidants levels in C. elegans were studied. Furthermore, the potentials of AAPs-H in up-regulating the expression of antioxidant-related genes in C. elegans , such as skn-1 , sod-3 and sir-2.1 , were also discussed. AAPs-H demonstrated a highly significant protective effect against the damage caused by paraquat, could significantly increase U-Turn frequency of worms (p < 0.01), extend their lifespan, enhance antioxidant systems including GR by 63.96% (p < 0.05), GSH-Px by 71.16% (p < 0.01), SOD by 78.65% (p < 0.01) and CAT by 98.52% (p < 0.01), increase the level of GSH by 28.12% (p < 0.05), and decrease the level of MDA by 39.29% (p < 0.01). The qRT-PCR results showed that AAPs-H could up regulate mRNA expression levels of skn-1 , sod-1 , sod-2 , sod-3 and sir-2.1 in wild-type C. elegans (>1.6 fold) when treated with the concentration of 0.4 mg/mL (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). Our studies provide evidence that AAPs-H improves antioxidant defense system, and up-regulation of oxidative stress related genes for prevention of stress damage in C. elegans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tulio Briceño-Maaz, MD, was a multifaceted man. During his long life, he developed very many activities in several fields of medicine, including dermatology and mycology. All were signaled by quiet work, firm objectives, and measurable achievements. They showed tenacity, genteelness, and lasting positive results. His life span coincided with the sinusoidal transition of Venezuela from a rural background country, plagued by armed and civil unrest, to a nation ready to position herself in the ranks of countries achieving development. By the time of Dr Briceño-Maaz's death, unfortunately, Venezuela involuted into a process of degeneration and autophagy still present today. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, replicative life span (RLS) is primarily affected by the stability of ribosomal DNA (rDNA). The stability of the highly repetitive rDNA array is maintained through transcriptional silencing by the NAD+-dependent histone deacetylase Sir2. Recently, the loss of Smi1, a protein of unknown molecular function that has been proposed to be involved in cell wall synthesis, has been demonstrated to extend RLS in S. cerevisiae, but the mechanism by which Smi1 regulates RLS has not been elucidated. In this study, we determined that the loss of Smi1 extends RLS in a Sir2-dependent manner. We observed that the smi1Δ mutation enhances transcriptional silencing at the rDNA locus and promotes rDNA stability. In the absence of Smi1, the stressresponsive transcription factor Msn2 translocates from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, and nuclear-accumulated Msn2 stimulates the expression of nicotinamidase Pnc1, which serves as an activator of Sir2. In addition, we observed that the MAP kinase Hog1 is activated in smi1Δ cells and that the activation of Hog1 induces the translocation of Msn2 into the nucleus. Taken together, our findings suggest that the loss of Smi1 leads to the nuclear accumulation of Msn2 and stimulates the expression of Pnc1, thereby enhancing Sir2-mediated rDNA stability and extending RLS in S. cerevisiae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caloric restriction (CR) improves health span and life span of organisms ranging from yeast to mammals. Understanding the mechanisms involved will uncover future interventions for aging-associated diseases. In budding yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, CR is commonly defined by reduced glucose in the growth medium, which extends both replicative and chronological life span (CLS). We found that conditioned media collected from stationary-phase CR cultures extended CLS when supplemented into nonrestricted (NR) cultures, suggesting a potential cell-nonautonomous mechanism of CR-induced life span regulation. Chromatography and untargeted metabolomics of the conditioned media, as well as transcriptional responses associated with the longevity effect, pointed to specific amino acids enriched in the CR conditioned media (CRCM) as functional molecules, with L-serine being a particularly strong candidate. Indeed, supplementing L-serine into NR cultures extended CLS through a mechanism dependent on the one-carbon metabolism pathway, thus implicating this conserved and central metabolic hub in life span regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]