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Background: Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP) are a major cause of maternal mortality and morbidity. Recent studies indicated that pregnant women are the most vulnerable populations to ambient temperature influences, but it affected HDP with inconsistent conclusions. Our objective is to systematically review whether extreme temperature exposure is associated with a changed risk for HDP. Method: We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases. We included cohort or case control studies examining the association between extreme temperature exposure before or during pregnancy and HDP. Heat sources such as saunas and hot baths were excluded. We pooled the odds ratio (OR) to assess the association between extreme temperature exposure and preeclampsia or eclampsia. Results: Fifteen studies involving 4,481,888 patients were included. Five studies were included in the meta-analysis. The overall result demonstrated that in the first half of pregnancy, heat exposure increases the risk of developing preeclampsia or eclampsia and gestational hypertension, and cold exposure decreases the risk. The meta-analysis revealed that during the first half of pregnancy, heat exposure increased the risk of preeclampsia or eclampsia (OR 1.54, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.10, 2.15), whereas cold exposure decreased the risk (OR 0.90, 95% CI: 0.84, 0.97). Conclusion: The ambient temperature is an important determinant for the development of HDP, especially for preeclampsia or eclampsia. The effects of extreme temperatures may be bidirectional during the different trimesters of pregnancy, which should be evaluated by future studies. This review provided hints of temperature regulation in HDP administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abiotic stress is the focus of research on passion fruit characters because of its damage to the industry. Basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) is one of the Transcription factors (TFs) which can act in an anti-abiotic stress role through diverse biological processes. However, no systemic analysis of the passion fruit bHLH (PebHLH) family was reported. In this study, 117 PebHLH members were identified from the genome of passion fruit, related to plant stress resistance and development by prediction of protein interaction. Furthermore, the transcriptome sequencing results showed that the PebHLHs responded to different abiotic stresses. At different ripening stages of passion fruit, the expression level of most PebHLHs in the immature stage (T1) was higher than that in the mature stage (T2 and T3). Eight PebHLHs with differentially expressed under different stress treatments and different ripening stages were selected and verified by qRT-PCR. In this research, the expression of one member, PebHLH56, was induced under cold stress. Further, the promoter of PebHLH56 was fused to β-Galactosidase (GUS) to generate the expression vector that was transformed into Arabidopsis. It showed that PebHLH56 could significantly respond to cold stress. This study provided new insights into the regulatory functions of PebHLH genes during fruit maturity stages and abiotic stress, thereby improving the understanding of the characteristics and evolution of the PebHLH gene family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Physical activity (PA) can be affected by extreme temperatures, however fewer studies have identified factors impacting this relationship. This study sought to identify factors associated with changes of outdoor PA during extreme cold/heat events in a sub-tropical Chinese urban population, including factors of sociodemographic, health conditions, temperature-related awareness and attitude, and protective behaviours. Methods: Two telephone surveys were conducted a week after extreme cold/heat events in 2016 and 2017 among a cohort of Hong Kong residents over age 15. Data was collected on self-reported changes in outdoor PA level during the periods of extreme temperatures, health status, comorbidities, sociodemographic, and temperature-related awareness, and behavioural variables. We conducted multivariable logistic regression analyses to assess predictors of change in outdoor PA over the two extreme temperature events. Results and Conclusion: Among 435 participants (42.8% response rate), over a third of the participants reported decreased outdoor PA level in extreme temperature events, while 10% reported an increase in extreme heat. Self-reported cardiovascular diseases were associated with decreased PA level in extreme cold, while hypertension was associated with unchanged/increased PA level in extreme heat. These results suggest physical activity to be an important consideration in the understanding of climate change-and-health pathways and meriting further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: Under cold conditions, StICE1 enhances plant cold tolerance by upregulating StLTI6A expression to maintain the cell membrane stability. Cold stress affects potato plants growth and development, crop productivity and quality. The ICE-CBF-COR regulatory cascade is the well-known pathway in response to cold stress in plants. ICE1, as a MYC-like bHLH transcription factor, can regulate the expressions of CBFs. However, whether ICE1 could regulate other genes still need to be explored. Our results showed that overexpressing ICE1 from potato in Arabidopsis thaliana could enhance plant cold tolerance. Under cold stress, overexpressed StICE1 in plants improved the stability of cell membrane, enhanced scavenging capacity of reactive oxygen species and increased expression levels of CBFs and COR genes. Furthermore, StICE1 could bind to the promoter of StLTI6A gene, which could maintain the stability of the cell membrane, to upregulate StLTI6A expression under cold conditions. Our findings revealed that StICE1 could directly regulate StLTI6A, CBF and COR genes expression to response to cold stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation assessed the physiological effects of voluntary suppression of shivering thermogenesis in response to whole body cooling. Eleven healthy volunteers underwent passive air cooling (10°C), across three visits: NO_SUP, where participants allowed their body to freely regulate against the cold; FULL_SUP, where participants constantly suppressed shivering; INT_SUP, where participants intermittently suppressed shivering (5 min phases), interspersed with 5 min free regulation. Shivering was assessed via electromyography (EMG), mechanomyography (MMG), and whole body oxygen uptake (VO2), whereas body temperature and heat exchange were assessed via skin temperature, rectal temperature, and heat flux sensors. A 29% increase was observed in shivering onset time in the FULL_SUP trial compared with NO_SUP (P = 0.032). Assessing shivering intensity, EMG activity decreased by 29% (P = 0.034), MMG activity decreased by 35% (P = 0.031), whereas no difference was observed in VO2 (P = 0.091) in the FULL_SUP trial compared with NO_SUP. Partitioning the no-suppression and suppression phases of the INT_SUP trial, acute voluntary suppression significantly decreased VO2 (P = 0.001), EMG (P < 0.001), and MMG (P = 0.012) activity compared with the no-suppression phases. Shivering activity was restored in the no-suppression phases, equivalent to that in the NO_SUP trial (P > 0.3). No difference was observed in thermal metrics between conditions up to 60 min (P > 0.4). Humans can both constantly and periodically suppress shivering activity, leading to a delay in shivering onset and a reduction in shivering intensity. Following suppression, regular shivering is resumed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trehalose is a nonreducing disaccharide that is involved in the regulation of plant responses to a variety of environmental stresses. Trehalose 6-phosphate synthase (TPS) and trehalose 6-phosphate phosphatase (TPP) are two key enzymes in trehalose synthesis and they are widely distributed in higher plants. At present, TPS family genes have been systematically identified and analyzed in many plant species, but the TPP family genes have been rarely studied. In this study, ten TPS and six TPP genes in cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) were identified at the genomic level. The phylogenetic tree of TPS and TPP family members in cannabis, Arabidopsis, and rice was constructed, and all the genes were divided into three subgroups: Class I, Class II, and Class III. The number of exons and motif types among Class I members was exactly the same, as were Class II members, but the gene structure and motif types of Class III members were slightly different. There were four pairs of CsTPSs and CsTPPs that had gene duplication, indicating that gene duplication events played an important role in the amplification of TPS and TPP families in cannabis. The results of expression analysis under abiotic stresses showed that 68.75 % of CsTPS and CsTPP genes were significantly induced by at least one abiotic stress. Among these genes, the expression of CsTPS1, CsTPS9, and CsTPPA was highest under at least one abiotic stress. These three genes may play a key role in abiotic stress responses. Most of the CsTPS and CsTPP genes that are closely located in the evolutionary tree have the same or similar functions. To our knowledge, this is the first paper that systematically reports the TPS and TPP gene families in cannabis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cauliflower is one of the most important popular vegetables in China. Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis) produces glucosinolates, which are secondary metabolites that have anti-cancer properties. The choice of suitable reference genes (RGs) for gene expression studies has a significant effect on experimental outcomes. In this study, we selected 15 candidates as RGs and analyzed them under heat, cold, drought, and salt stresses and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) treatment. The precision of the real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction data was assessed using four methods (geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and ΔCt). The results revealed that EF1-ß and ACT7; ACT1, EF1-ß, and TUB6; TUA2 and EF1-ß; HIS and ACT7; and ACT7 and ACT3 were the most stable combinations of genes for heat stress, cold stress, drought stress, salt stress, and MeJA treatment, respectively. The expression stability of the RGs fluctuated under different experimental conditions. Choosing the optimal RG for the specific experiment is therefore essential. This work provides relevant information for further gene expression studies on cauliflower and other closely related species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concerning the occurrence of a spontaneous event of low temperatures (<17 oC), in an irrigated rice field experiment, during the reproductive phase of the crop, yield was evaluated as well as percentage of grain sterility and number of panicles. The experiment was conducted in the south of Santa Catarina, in the 2019/2020 crop season, having been water-seeded in randomized blocks with three replications. Of the total number of genotypes that made up the experiment, 13 were selected to make up the main analysis, of sterility. Based on a series of previous studies for stress due to low and high temperatures, the hypothesis was that the SC 806 line would stand out as resilient. Based on a series of previous studies for low and high temperature stress, the hypothesis was that the SC 806 inbreed line would stand out as resilient. In fact, SC 806 showed significantly lower sterility levels than the commercial controls, SCS116 Satoru, SCS122 Miura and SC 790 (SCS125), while remaining competitive in terms of yield. Thus, SC 806 confirmed its resilience to low temperatures, what was a behavior showed in previous experiments, proving to be promising as a candidate for release as cultivar soon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We address the question of ultimate selective advantages of hibernation. Biologists generally seem to accept the notion that multiday torpor is primarily a response to adverse environmental conditions, namely cold climate and low food abundance. We closely examine hibernation, and its summer equivalent estivation, in the edible dormouse, Glis glis. We conclude that in this species, hibernation is not primarily driven by poor conditions. Dormice enter torpor with fat reserves in years that are unfavourable for reproduction but provide ample food supply for animals to sustain themselves and even gain body energy reserves. While staying in hibernacula below ground, hibernators have much higher chances of survival than during the active season. We think that dormice enter prolonged torpor predominantly to avoid predation, mainly nocturnal owls. Because estivation in summer is immediately followed by hibernation, this strategy requires a good body condition in terms of fat reserves. As dormice age, they encounter fewer occasions to reproduce when calorie-rich seeds are available late in the year, and phase advance the hibernation season. By early emergence from hibernation, the best territories can be occupied and the number of mates maximised. However, this advantage comes at the cost of increased predation pressure that is maximal in spring. We argue the predator avoidance is generally one of the primary reasons for hibernation, as increased perceived predation pressure leads to an enhanced torpor use. The edible dormouse may be just an example where this behaviour becomes most obvious, on the population level and across large areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Extreme weather events can cause significant human, economic and infrastructure losses. Within a changing climate, heatwaves, droughts, and floods are becoming more frequent and severe. Unfortunately, those who are most vulnerable are often disproportionately impacted. In this study, we examined the epidemiology of weather-related fatalities due to excessive heat (International Classification of Diseases [ICD]-10 codes X30); excessive cold (X31); storm and flood (X37; X38); and other causes (X32, X33, X39) in Australia between 2006–2019. There were 682 deaths due directly to weather-related events (41% excessive cold; 37% excessive heat; 15% storms and floods). The mean age of a weather-related victim in Australia was 60.8 years (SD = 24.1), with people aged 65+ years 12.8 times (95% confidence interval [CI]: 9.23–17.6) more likely to die due to a weather-related event. As the planet warms our study identifies declining excessive cold-related deaths, while other types of weather events remain steady or increase. In the context of climate change we must protect those most at risk; children and adolescents due to storms and floods, those with co-morbidities (particularly circulatory system disorders) and the elderly. Special attention should be paid to preventing excessive heat-related death among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and international visitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Iran, Sweet cherry is one of the most important horticultural products in temperate regions. So it is necessary to use micropropagation methods to accelerate its reproduction. This study was conducted as factorial experiment based on completely randomized design with two cultivars (Adli and Takdaned), and browning reduction treatments in four levels (dark, cold, dark and cold, antioxidant (100 mg/l ascorbic acid and 150 mg/l citric acid)) and proliferation growth regulators BAP at concentrations of (0, 1 and 2 mg/l) and IBA (0 and 0.01mg/l) and rooting stage treatments consisted of NAA (0 and 1 mg/l) and IBA (0 and 2 mg/l). The results showed that there was significant difference between treatments. The highest and lowest levels of browning were in cold treatment and antioxidan treatment, respectively. The highest number of shoots for Takdaneh (5.6) and for Adli (5) cultivars were 5.6 and 5, respectively. The highest rooting percentage was obtained for Takdaneh (78.73%) and Adli (69. 4%). In general, for Adli and Takdaneh cultivars in vitro propagation, MS culture medium containing 2 mg/L BAP and 0.01 mg/L IBA in the proliferation stage and 2 mg/L IBA in the rooting stage is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Migraine is a complex neurovascular disorder that is one of the leading causes of disability and a reduced quality of life. Even with such a high societal impact, our understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that contribute to migraine headaches is limited. To address this complex disorder, several groups have performed genome-wide association studies to elucidate migraine susceptibility genes, with many identifying transient receptor potential melastatin 8 (TRPM8), a cold-sensitive cation channel expressed in peripheral afferents innervating the trigeminovascular system, and the principal mediator of cold and cold pain associated with injury and disease. Interestingly, these migraine-associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms reside in noncoding regions of TRPM8, with those correlated with reduced migraine risk exhibiting lower TRPM8 expression and decreased cold sensitivity. Nonetheless, as a role for TRPM8 in migraine has yet to be defined, we sought to address this gap in our knowledge using mouse genetics and TRPM8 antagonism to determine whether TRPM8 channels or neurons are required for migraine-like pain (mechanical allodynia and facial grimace) in inducible migraine models. Our results show that both evoked and spontaneous pain behaviors are dependent on both TRPM8 channels and neurons, as well as required in both acute and chronic migraine models. Moreover, inhibition of TRPM8 channels prevented acute but not established chronic migraine-like pain. These results are consistent with its association with migraine in genetic analyses and establish that TRPM8 channels are a component of the underlying mechanisms of migraine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat represents one of the most important staple food crops worldwide and its genetic improvement is fundamental to meeting the global demand of the growing population. However, the environmental stresses, worsened by climate change, and the increasing deterioration of arable land make it very difficult to fulfil this demand. In light of this, the tolerance of wheat to abiotic stresses has become a key objective of genetic improvement, as an effective strategy to ensure high yields without increasing the cultivated land. Genetic erosion related to modern agriculture, whereby elite, high-yielding wheat varieties are the product of high selection pressure, has reduced the overall genetic diversity, including the allelic diversity of genes that could be advantageous for adaptation to adverse environmental conditions. This makes traditional breeding a less effective or slower approach to generating new stress-tolerant wheat varieties. Either mining for the diversity of not-adapted large germplasm pools, or generating new diversity, are the mainstream approaches to be pursued. The advent of genetic engineering has opened the possibility to create new plant variability and its application has provided a strong complement to traditional breeding. Genetic engineering strategies such as transgenesis and genome editing have then provided the opportunity to improve environmental tolerance traits of agronomic importance in cultivated species. As for wheat, several laboratories worldwide have successfully produced transgenic wheat lines with enhanced tolerance to abiotic stresses, and, more recently, significant improvements in the CRISPR/Cas9 tools available for targeted variations within the wheat genome have been achieved. In light of this, the present review aims to provide successful examples of genetic engineering applications for the improvement of wheat adaptation to drought, salinity and extreme temperatures, which represent the most frequent and most severe events causing the greatest losses in wheat production worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The processes involved in the formation of nocturnal temperature inversions (NTIs) are of great relevance throughout the year, notably influencing the surface distribution of minimum temperatures during nights of atmospheric stability. The low density of surface meteorological stations in the study area motivated the use of thermographies for the mapping and identification of cold air pools CAPs. Thermal distribution during stable nights leads to the formation of CAPs in valley areas and depressed areas, and in areas with warmer air (WAM) in orographically complex areas. The thermographies carried out with satellite products from AQUA and SUOMI-NPP (MODIS and VIIRS LST) represent the only tool capable of fully radiographing the territory under study, thus overcoming the limitations in the interpolation of minimum surface temperatures. The main objective of the research was, therefore, to value thermography as an important tool in the identification of CAPs. The products used were subjected to statistical validation with the surface temperatures recorded in meteorological observatories (R2 0.87/0.88 and Bias −1.2/-1.3) with a new objective of making thermal distribution maps in nocturnal stability processes ... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: Vitamin B12 is essential for normal neural conduction in peripheral nerves. This study aimed to investigate the electrophysiological profile for varying degrees of serum B12 levels and to determine whether a correlation existed between electrophysiological profiles and serum methylmalonic acid (MMA) levels. Also, determination of subclinical peripheral nerve involvement with cold administration was planned in serum B12 levels. Methods: A total of 101 (63 females, 38 males) subjects with known serum vitamin B12 levels were selected randomly from the neurology outpatient clinic for this study. The subjects were divided into three groups based on the serum total Vitamin B12 levels: (1) B12 deficiency (<126 pg/mL), (2) low B12 (126-250 pg/mL), and (3) normal B12 (250-500 pg/mL). Serum MMA and nerve conduction studies (NCS) were assessed and compared between the three groups. After the cooling procedure was applied to the ulnar and sural nerves, NCS was repeated. Results: There were 13 subjects in the B12 deficiency group, 44 subjects in the low B12 group, and 44 subjects in the normal group. We found that ulnar sensory nerve action potential amplitudes were significantly decreased (P = 0.009), ulnar F latency (P = 0.003; P < 0.001)) was prolonged, and peroneal combined muscle action potential amplitudes decreased (P = 0.026) in the B12 deficiency when compared with the low and normal B12 groups. Sural nerve amplitude and conduction velocities were found to be significantly abnormal after the cold application in all groups (P < 0.001). The increase in sural nerve sensory nerve amplitude potentials (SNAP) amplitudes was higher in the B12 deficiency group than in the other groups. Mean serum MMA levels were high in all groups. A correlation of nerve conduction study (NCS) changes with serum vitamin B12 and MMA was not observed in the groups after cold application. Conclusion: Vitamin B12 deficiency may cause subclinical sensorial and motor axonal nerve conduction changes. Nerve conduction changes may not always reach pathological values based on electrophysiological studies but may be detected after cooling administration even in the normal serum B12 levels. A correlation between serum MMA and vitamin B12 levels was found. Therefore, serum levels of vitamin B12, which is important for nerve conduction, should be carefully evaluated in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identify the freezing tolerant cultivars is a suitable approach for the success of lentil sowing in autumn. In this respect, an augmented experience was carried out to evaluate freezing tolerance of 259 lentil accessions during the 2016-2017 growing seasons in Mashhad. During the growing season, the phenologic growth stages of the plants and the survival percentage affected by winter hardiness were recorded, and at the end of the growing season, morphological traits, seed yield and components were determined. The lowest recorded temperature during the growing season was -13°C. Survival percentage varied between 0 and 100% and the highest survival percentage (100%) and maximum plant height (53cm) were found in MLC13 MLC409, respectively. Six accessions (MLC424, MLC286, MLC409, MLC303 'MLC334 and MLC407) were identified as freezing tolerant. Among freezing tolerant accessions, MLC424, MLC286, MLC409, MLC303, MLC334 and MLC407 had the highest seed yield (154, 192, 220, 144, 225 and 264 g.m²), respectively. There was a high correlation between survival percentage and seed yield and components. Based on the results, more precise assessment of physiological processes involved in freezing tolerance of lentil accessions in the controlled condition and accessing to winter hardness genotyped is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well known that plant growth, development, survival and geographical distribution are constrained by extreme climatic conditions, especially extreme low temperature. Under cold stress, cold-inducible promoters were identified as important molecular switches to transcriptionally regulate the initiation of genes associated with cold acclimation processes and enhance the adaptability of plants to cold stimulation. Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most dominating food crops in the world, and wheat crops are generally overwintering with strong cold resistance. Our previous study already proved that heterologous expression of wheat ice recrystallization inhibition (IRI) genes enhanced freezing tolerance in tobacco. However, the upstream regulatory mechanisms of TaIRI are ambiguous. In this study, the space–time specific expression of TaIRI genes in wheat was analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), and results showed that the expression of TaIRI in all tissues was cold-induced and accelerate by exogenous methyl jasmonate (MeJA). Three promoters of TaIRI genes were isolated from wheat genome, and various 5′-deletion fragments of TaIRIp were integrated into β-glucuronidase (GUS) within vector pCAMBIA1301. The promoter activity of TaIRI genes was determined through transient expression system of tobacco and stable expression of Arabidopsis thaliana. Results revealed that the GUS activity were significantly strengthened by cold and MeJA treatments. This study will provide insights into elucidating the transcription-regulatory mechanism of IRI proteins responding to low temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cauliflower is one of the most important popular vegetables in China. Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis) produces glucosinolates, which are secondary metabolites that have anti-cancer properties. The choice of suitable reference genes (RGs) for gene expression studies has a significant effect on experimental outcomes. In this study, we selected 15 candidates as RGs and analyzed them under heat, cold, drought, and salt stresses and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) treatment. The precision of the real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction data was assessed using four methods (geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and ΔCt). The results revealed that EF1-β and ACT7; ACT1, EF1-β, and TUB6; TUA2 and EF1-β; HIS and ACT7; and ACT7 and ACT3 were the most stable combinations of genes for heat stress, cold stress, drought stress, salt stress, and MeJA treatment, respectively. The expression stability of the RGs fluctuated under different experimental conditions. Choosing the optimal RG for the specific experiment is therefore essential. This work provides relevant information for further gene expression studies on cauliflower and other closely related species.

The visually appealing pink Auricularia cornea (PAC) underwent noticeable discoloration when stored at 4 °C, adversely affecting their eye-catching colors, texture, and commercial value. The mechanisms underlying the quality losses during storage remained understudied. Here, data from 12 physiological indicators, 14 texture or color-related indicators, and transcriptome dynamics across 6 stages spanning 35 d were comprehensively evaluated. The results reveal a loss of key quality indicators, such as color, hardness, springiness, cohesiveness, chewiness, and resilience, etc. Enzyme activities associated with low-temperature stress exhibit fluctuating patterns. Quality remains acceptable when refrigerated for seven days. RNA sequencing revealed 1,106 to 1,974 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), based on 4-fold changes and validated via RT-qPCR. DEGs were enriched in processes including cell wall macromolecule catabolism, oxidation-reduction, and alcohol metabolism, along with KEGG pathways related to amino acid, galactose, and lipid metabolism. This study offers valuable insights into optimizing the postharvest preservation of PAC during refrigeration. [Display omitted] • Refrigerated storage alter the phenotype and physical properties of pink A. cornea. • Fading, yellowing and texture softening were the main post-harvest storage indicators. • DEGs and functions associated with cell wall alterations were identified. • Oxidation-reduction and alcohol metabolism processes drive physiological changes. • DEGs related to amino acid metabolism were significantly enriched. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional Chinese medicines (TCM) have been considered an important source of curative remedy for many years due to their potential chemical components which can promote health and prevent diseases. According to TCM, influenza is differentiated into two kinds, namely, wind-cold syndrome and wind-heat syndrome. Many traditional Chinese medicinal plants have been found to exert impacts against both cold and influenza viruses. This article included randomized control experiments, observational and analytical designs, and review articles which have been searched in Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar. The most important antiviral herbs for cold and flu are honey-suckle flowers (Lonicera periclymenum L.), thyme leaf (Thymus vulgaris L.), green chireta (Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Wall. Ex Nees), Calendula (Calendua officinalis L.), and peppermints leaf and oil (Mentha piperita L.). The most notable expectorant herbs for cold and flu are snake root (Ageratina altissima (L.) R.King & H.Rob), tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum L.), licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.), slippery elm (Ulmus rubra Muhl) and marshmallow osha root (Althea officinalis L.), clove (Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & L.M.Perry), and sage leaf (Salvia officinalis L.). Immunostimulant herbs for cold and flu are eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globuls Labill), Echinacea root (Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench), ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Mey), garlic (Allium sativum L.), marshmallow (Althaea officinalis L.), Isatis root (Isatis tinctoria L.), ginger root (Zingiber officinale Rosc), and myrrh resin (Commiphora myrrha (T.Nees) Engl.). The most famous and practical herbal prescriptions from China are Jinchai, Rorrico, Ge Gen Decoction, Gegen Qinlian Decoction, Xin-Jia-Xiang-Ru-Yin, Yi-Zhi-Hao pellet, IMOD, and Arbidol combinations. Traditional Chinese medicinal plants and herbs with antiviral activities and prescriptions which are common in China can be considered for prevention and treatment of influenza and cold.

Needle abscission in balsam fir has been linked to both cold acclimation and changes in lipid composition. The overall objective of this research is to uncover lipid changes in balsam fir during cold acclimation and link those changes with postharvest abscission. Branches were collected monthly from September to December and were assessed for cold tolerance via membrane leakage and chlorophyll fluorescence changes at −5, −15, −25, −35, and −45 °C. Lipids were extracted and analyzed using mass spectrometry while postharvest needle abscission was determined gravimetrically. Cold tolerance and needle retention each significantly (p < 0.001) improved throughout autumn in balsam fir. There were concurrent increases in DGDG, PC, PG, PE, and PA throughout autumn as well as a decrease in MGDG. Those same lipids were strongly related to cold tolerance, though MGDG had the strongest relationship (R2 = 55.0% and 42.7% from membrane injury and chlorophyll fluorescence, respectively). There was a similar, albeit weaker, relationship between MGDG:DGDG and needle retention (R2 = 24.3%). Generally, a decrease in MGDG:DGDG ratio resulted in better cold tolerance and higher needle retention in balsam fir, possibly due to increased membrane stability. This study confirms the degree of cold acclimation in Nova Scotian balsam fir and presents practical significance to industry by identifying the timing of peak needle retention. It is suggested that MGDG:DGDG might be a beneficial tool for screening balsam fir genotypes with higher needle retention characteristics.

Introduction: Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are caused by bacteria or viruses, with the most common causes being the common cold and influenza. The high occurrence of URTI means therapies that are effective with minimal side effects are in constant demand. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a signaling lipid previously shown to be effective in improving the incidence of URTIs. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of PEA (Levagen+) on URTI incidence, duration, and severity. Methods: Participants (n = 426) consumed either 300 mg of Levagen+ or a placebo (maltodextrin) twice daily for 12 weeks. Participants completed the Wisconsin Upper Respiratory Symptom Survey 24 questionnaire daily upon the commencement of symptoms until symptoms subsided. Results: The Levagen+ group reported fewer URTI episodes (39 vs. 64) compared to the placebo group. The Levagen+ group reported a significant reduction in the median severity score of URTI symptoms for scratchy throat (3 vs. 7) and cough (2 vs. 7) compared to the placebo group. Conclusions: The results of this study show Levagen+ to be safe and effective in reducing the incidence and symptoms associated with URTIs.

SWEET proteins play important roles in plant growth and development, sugar loading in phloem and resistance to abiotic stress through sugar transport. In this study, 13 BpSWEET genes were identified from birch genome. Collinearity analysis showed that there were one tandem repeating gene pair (BpSWEET1b/BpSWEET1c) and two duplicative gene pairs (BpSWEET17a/BpSWEET17b) in the BpSWEET gene family. The BpSWEET gene promoter regions contained several cis-acting elements related to stress resistance, for example: hormone-responsive and low-temperature-responsive cis-elements. Analysis of transcriptome data showed that BpSWEET genes were highly expressed in several sink organs, and the most BpSWEET genes were rapidly up-regulated under cold stress. BpSWEET1c, which was highly expressed in cold stress, was selected for further analysis. It was found that BpSWEET1c was located on the cell membrane. After 6 h of 4 °C stress, sucrose content in the leaves and roots of transient overexpressed BpSWEET1c was significantly higher than that of the control. MDA content in roots was significantly lower than that of the control. These results indicate that BpSWEET1c may play a positive role in the response to cold stress by promoting the metabolism and transport of sucrose. In conclusion, 13 BpSWEET genes were identified from the whole genome level. Most of the SWEET genes of birch were expressed in the sink organs and could respond to cold stress. Transient overexpression of BpSWEET1c changed the soluble sugar content and improved the cold tolerance of birch.

Trehalose is a nonreducing disaccharide that is involved in the regulation of plant responses to a variety of environmental stresses. Trehalose 6-phosphate synthase (TPS) and trehalose 6-phosphate phosphatase (TPP) are two key enzymes in trehalose synthesis and they are widely distributed in higher plants. At present, TPS family genes have been systematically identified and analyzed in many plant species, but the TPP family genes have been rarely studied. In this study, ten TPS and six TPP genes in cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) were identified at the genomic level. The phylogenetic tree of TPS and TPP family members in cannabis, Arabidopsis, and rice was constructed, and all the genes were divided into three subgroups: Class I, Class II, and Class III. The number of exons and motif types among Class I members was exactly the same, as were Class II members, but the gene structure and motif types of Class III members were slightly different. There were four pairs of CsTPSs and CsTPPs that had gene duplication, indicating that gene duplication events played an important role in the amplification of TPS and TPP families in cannabis. The results of expression analysis under abiotic stresses showed that 68.75 % of CsTPS and CsTPP genes were significantly induced by at least one abiotic stress. Among these genes, the expression of CsTPS1, CsTPS9, and CsTPPA was highest under at least one abiotic stress. These three genes may play a key role in abiotic stress responses. Most of the CsTPS and CsTPP genes that are closely located in the evolutionary tree have the same or similar functions. To our knowledge, this is the first paper that systematically reports the TPS and TPP gene families in cannabis.

Abstract Japanese-style bathing (JSB), which involves soaking in hot water up to the shoulders in deep bathtubs for a long time in the evening to night, is unique. Many experimental and epidemiological studies and surveys have shown that JSB improve sleep quality, especially shortens sleep onset latency in winter. In addition, repeated JSB lead the improvement of depressive symptoms. JSB is a simple and low-cost non-pharmacological measure to sleep difficulty in winter and mental disorders, especially for the elderly. On the contrary, drowning, while soaking in a bathtub, is the most common of accidental death at home in Japan. It is estimated that approximately 19,000 Japanese individuals die annually while taking a bath, mostly during winter, and most victims are elderly people. Elderly Japanese people tend to prefer a higher-risk JSB because the temperature inside the house during winter, especially the dressing room/bathroom temperature, is very low. Since the physiological thermal effect of the elderly associated with bathing is relatively lower among the elderly than the young, the elderly prefer to take a long hot bath. This elderly’s favorite style of JSB results in larger increased blood pressure in dressing rooms and larger decreased in blood pressure during hot bathing. A sudden drop in blood pressure while immersed in the bathtub leads to fainting and drowning. Furthermore, elderly people are less sensitive to cold air or hot water, therefore, it is difficult to take appropriate measures to prevent large fluctuations in blood pressure. To ensure a safe and comfortable winter bathing, the dressing room/bathroom temperature needs to be maintained at 20 °C or higher, and several degrees higher would be recommended for the elderly.

Sleep and circadian rhythms are closely involved in the immune system and its regulation. Here, we describe this relationship and provide recommendations regarding the influence of sleep and circadian rhythms on vaccination success. We review studies investigating how viral susceptibility is influenced by changes in immunological parameters as a consequence of sleep deprivation. Short sleep duration and poor sleep efficiency both appear to be strong factors leading to greater vulnerability. In addition, both sleep duration and the time of day of the vaccination seem to be associated with the magnitude of the antibody response after vaccination. Based on these findings, a recommendation would consist of a sleep duration of 7 h or more every night to both reduce the risk of infection and to optimize the efficacy of vaccination with respect to circadian timing. Improving sleep quality and its circadian timing can potentially play a role in preventing infection and in vaccination benefits. In conclusion, sufficient (or longer) sleep duration is important in both reducing susceptibility to infection and increasing antibody response after vaccination.

No studies have examined the effects of cold temperatures (∼0–1 °C) on in vivo cardiac function and control, and metabolism, in salmonids. Thus, we examined: 1) how acclimation to 8 °C vs. acclimation (>3 weeks) or acute exposure (8-1 °C at 1 °C h−1) to 1 °C influenced cardiorespiratory parameters in resting Atlantic salmon; and 2) if/how the control of cardiac function was affected. Oxygen consumption (M˙O2) and cardiac function [i.e., heart rate (fH) and cardiac output (Q˙)] were 50% lower in the acutely cooled and 1oC-acclimated salmon as compared to 8 °C fish, whereas stroke volume (VS) was unchanged. Intrinsic fH was not affected by whether the fish were acutely exposed or acclimated to 1 °C (values ∼51, 24 and 21 beats min−1 in 8 and 1 °C-acclimated fish, and 8-1 °C fish, respectively), and in all groups fH was primarily under adrenergic control/tone (cholinergic tone 13–18%; adrenergic tone 37–70%). However, β-adrenergic blockade resulted in a 50% increase in VS in the 1oC-acclimated group, and this was surprising as circulating catecholamine levels were ∼1–3 nM in all groups. Overall, the data suggest that this species has a limited capacity to acclimate to temperatures approaching 0 °C. However, we cannot exclude the possibility that cardiac and metabolic responses are evoked when salmon are cooled to ∼ 0–1 °C, and that this prevented further declines in these parameters (i.e., they ‘reset’ quickly). Our data also provide further evidence that VS is temperature insensitive, and strongly suggest that changes in adrenoreceptor mediated control of venous pressure/capacitance occur when salmon are acclimated to 1 °C.

ObjectivesThis study aims to assess the association between daily temperature and sickness absence episodes in the Mediterranean province of Barcelona between 2012 and 2015, according to sociodemographic and occupational characteristics.MethodsEcological study of a sample of salaried workers affiliated to the Spanish social security, resident in Barcelona province between 2012 and 2015. The association between daily mean temperature and risk of new sickness absence episodes was estimated with distributed lag non-linear models. The lag effect up to 1 week was considered. Analyses were repeated separately by sex, age groups, occupational category, economic sector and medical diagnosis groups of sickness absence.ResultsThe study included 42,744 salaried workers and 97,166 episodes of sickness absence. The risk of sickness absence increased significantly between 2 and 6 days after the cold day. For hot days there was no association with risk of sickness absence. Women, young, non-manual and workers in the service sector had a higher risk of sickness absence on cold days. The effect of cold on sickness absence was significant for respiratory system diseases (RR: 2.16; 95%CI: 1.68–2.79) and infectious diseases (RR: 1.31; 95%CI: 1.04–1.66).ConclusionLow temperatures increase the risk of having a new episode of sickness absence, especially due to respiratory and infectious diseases. Vulnerable groups were identified. These results suggest the importance of working in indoor and possibly poorly ventilated spaces in the spread of diseases that eventually lead to an episode of sickness absence. It is necessary to develop specific prevention plans for cold situations.

Abstract Background The straw mushroom (Volvariella volvacea) is one of the important vegetables that is popular for its delicious taste. However, the straw mushroom is sensitive to low temperature, resulting in economic loss during transportation and storage. We obtained a novel straw mushroom strain, named VH3, via ultraviolet mutagenesis. Results Our study revealed that VH3 exhibited high cold resistance compared to an ordinary straw mushroom cultivar, V23. We found that the electrolyte leakages of VH3 were always significantly lower than that of V23 treated with 4 °C for 0 h, 2 h,4 h, 8 h, 16 h, and 24 h. Before cold treatment (0 h), there were no difference of MDA contents, SOD activities, and CAT activities between VH3 and V23. At the late stage (8 h, 26 h, and 24 h) of cold treatment, the MDA contents of VH3 were lower while both the SOD and CAT activities were higher than those of V23. To investigate the potential mechanisms of VH3 cold resistance, we performed transcriptome sequencing to detect the transcriptome profiling of VH3 and V23 after 0 h and 4 h cold treatment. Transcriptome sequencing revealed that 111 differentially expressed genes (DEG) between V23 (0 h) and VH3 (0 h) (V23–0_vs_VH3–0), consisting 50 up-regulated and 61 down-regulated DEGs. A total of 117 DEGs were obtained between V23 (4 h) and VH3(4 h) (V23–4_vs_VH3–4), containing 94 up-regulated and 23 down-regulated DEGs. Among these DEGs, VVO_00021 and VVO_00017 were up-regulated while VVO_00003, VVO_00004, VVO_00010, and VVO_00030 were down-regulated in V23–0_vs_VH3–0 and VH3–4_vs_V23–4. KEGG and GO analysis revealed that the 6 DEGs were annotated to pathways related to cold stress. Besides, the GA3 content was also decreased in VH3. Conclusions Collectively, our study first revealed that the increased cold resistance of VH3 might be caused by the expression change of VVO_00003, VVO_00004, VVO_00017, VVO_00021, and VVO_00030, and decreased GA3.

The purpose of this study was to produce a fish smoking device for hot smoking and cold smoking methods. This study used 3 types of fish, namely paha fish (Leptobrama sp.), stingray (Dasyatis sp.), and tilapia fish (Oreochromis mossambicus), and the fuel used as fuel for smoking is coconut shell. The data measured included smoking room temperature data, fish weight before and after smoking. The data obtained were analyzed descriptively. The results showed that smoking fish using hot smoking and cold smoking methods with specifications, length 50 cm, width 50 cm, overall height 83 cm. This tool consists of three main components, namely, a fumigation chamber which is combined with a hot smoking biomass combustion chamber, a cold smoking biomass combustion chamber and a connecting pipe. The performance test of the tool was carried out by calculating the weight loss of fish during hot smoking and cold smoking. The smoking time used for hot smoking is 2 hours (temperature 50 – 75℃) and cold smoking 4 hours (30 – 45 ℃). The results showed that the highest percentage of weight loss during hot smoking occurred in stingrays on the second shelf, which was 29.25%, while the highest percentage of weight loss during cold smoking occurred in stingrays on the first shelf, which was 23.79%. The weight loss of fish in both hot and cold smoking is strongly influenced by the smoking time, the distance between the smoking rack and the heat source and the type of fish.

We aimed to investigate a hypothesised association between daily mean temperature and the risk of surgery for acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD). For the period of 1 January 2005 until 31 December 2019, we collected daily data on mean temperatures and date of 2995 operations for ATAAD at 10 Nordic cities included in the Nordic Consortium for Acute Type A Aortic Dissection (NORCAAD) collaboration. Using a two-stage time-series approach, we investigated the association between hot and cold temperatures relative to the optimal temperature and the rate of ATAAD repair in the selected cities. The relative risks (RRs) of cold temperatures (≤−5°C) and hot temperatures (≥21°C) compared to optimal temperature were 1.47 (95% CI: 0.72–2.99) and 1.43 (95% CI: 0.67–3.08), respectively. In line with previous studies, we observed increased risk at cold and hot temperatures. However, the observed associations were not statistically significant, thus only providing weak evidence of an association.

Summary: Background: The application of cold exposure has emerged as an approach to enhance whole-body lipid catabolism. The global effect of cold exposure on the lipidome in humans has been reported with mixed results depending on intensity and duration of cold. Methods: This secondary study was based on data from a previous randomized cross-over trial (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT03012113). We performed sequential lipidomic profiling in serum during 120 min cold exposure of human volunteers. Next, the intracellular lipolysis was blocked in mice (eighteen 10-week-old male wild-type mice C57BL/6J) using a small-molecule inhibitor of adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL; Atglistatin), and mice were exposed to cold for a similar duration. The quantitative lipidomic profiling was assessed in-depth using the Lipidyzer platform. Findings: In humans, cold exposure gradually increased circulating free fatty acids reaching a maximum at 60 min, and transiently decreased total triacylglycerols (TAGs) only at 30 min. A broad range of TAG species was initially decreased, in particular unsaturated and polyunsaturated TAG species with ≤5 double bonds, while after 120 min a significant increase was observed for polyunsaturated TAG species with ≥6 double bonds in humans. The mechanistic study in mice revealed that the cold-induced increase in polyunsaturated TAGs was largely prevented by blocking adipose triglyceride lipase. Interpretation: We interpret these findings as that cold exposure feeds thermogenic tissues with TAG-derived fatty acids for combustion, resulting in a decrease of circulating TAG species, followed by increased hepatic production of polyunsaturated TAG species induced by liberation of free fatty acids stemming from adipose tissue. Funding: This work was supported by the Netherlands CardioVascular Research Initiative: ‘the Dutch Heart Foundation, Dutch Federation of University Medical Centers, the Netherlands Organisation for Health Research and Development and the Royal Netherlands Academy of Sciences’ [CVON2017-20 GENIUS-II] to Patrick C.N. Rensen. Borja Martinez-Tellez is supported by individual postdoctoral grant from the Fundación Alfonso Martin Escudero and by a Maria Zambrano fellowship by the Ministerio de Universidades y la Unión Europea – NextGenerationEU (RR_C_2021_04). Lucas Jurado-Fasoli was supported by an individual pre-doctoral grant from the Spanish Ministry of Education (FPU19/01609) and with an Albert Renold Travel Fellowship from the European Foundation for the Study of Diabetes (EFSD). Martin Giera was partially supported by NWO XOmics project #184.034.019.

Background: It is a growing importance to induce a new treatment approach to encourage weight loss but also to improve maintenance of lost weight. It has been shown that promotion of brown adipose tissue (BAT) function or acquisition of BAT characteristics in white adipose tissue (terms referred as "browning") can be protective against obesity. Main text: Amongst numerous established environmental influences on BAT activity, cold exposure is the best interested technique due to its not only effects on of BAT depots in proliferation process but also de novo differentiation of precursor cells via β-adrenergic receptor activation. A novel combination drug, sacubitril/valsartan, has been shown to be more efficient in reducing cardiovascular events and heart failure readmission compared to conventional therapy. Also, this combination of drugs increases the postprandial lipid oxidation contributing to energy expenditure, promotes lipolysis in adipocytes and reduces body weight. To date, there is no research examining potential of combined sacubitril/valsartan use to promote browning or mechanisms in the basis of this thermogenic process. Conclusion: Due to the pronounced effects of cold and sacubitril/valsartan treatment on function and metabolism of BAT, the primary goal of further research should focused on investigation of the synergistic effects of the sacubitril/valsartan treatment at low temperature environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Origins-of-life chemical experiments usually aim to produce specific chemical end-products such as amino acids, nucleic acids or sugars. The resulting chemical systems do not evolve or adapt because they lack natural selection processes. We have modified Miller origins-of-life apparatuses to incorporate several natural, prebiotic physicochemical selection factors that can be tested individually or in tandem: freezing-thawing cycles; drying-wetting cycles; ultraviolet light-dark cycles; and catalytic surfaces such as clays or minerals. Each process is already known to drive important origins-of-life chemical reactions such as the production of peptides and synthesis of nucleic acid bases and each can also destroy various reactants and products, resulting selection within the chemical system. No previous apparatus has permitted all of these selection processes to work together. Continuous synthesis and selection of products can be carried out over many months because the apparatuses can be re-gassed. Thus, long-term chemical evolution of chemical ecosystems under various combinations of natural selection may be explored for the first time. We argue that it is time to begin experimenting with the long-term effects of such prebiotic natural selection processes because they may have aided biotic life to emerge by taming the combinatorial chemical explosion that results from unbounded chemical syntheses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Snow skiers are directly exposed to a variety of extreme environmental conditions, which may lead to numerous physiological and pathological changes in the skin, and potentially increased chances of various specific and non-specific skin diseases. Although there are studies on skin diseases caused by exposure to cold and high altitudes, yet those on snow skiers are scarce as the study population is small. Objective: This study was undertaken to observe various dermatoses existing exclusively in snow skiers. Methods: It was a descriptive, cross-sectional, community-based study conducted at the world-famous ski resort Gulmarg Kashmir in North India. The initial questionnaire-based assessment and the subsequent examination of those exhibiting skin involvement were undertaken by visiting places of accommodation for snow skiers as well as on-spot visits to skiing slopes. Result: The most common dermatological manifestations in our study were dryness (xerosis) and its related aftereffects such as pruritus and chapping of the lips, followed by UV-related skin damage such as whole-face tanning, various types of infections and infestations, and endogenous eczema, including seborrheic and xerotic eczema. Direct cold-related injuries such as perniosis and various forms of urticaria were also common presentations. Conclusion: Snow skiers are especially susceptible to a variety of dermatoses because of exposure to cold conditions and direct contact with the snow. Proper protective measures against cold and snow and awareness about preventive strategies may decrease the chances of snow skiers developing various dermatoses, thereby reducing morbidity and work and economic loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Western democracies have lost their compass. They are cold and with no appeal; not looked upon as an efficient and effective model of governance. The Biden Doctrine might be defined as Joe Biden’s worldview divided between democracy and authoritarianism, as well as his attempt to make democracy attractive by having it deliver effectively on people’s concerns and needs. The Doctrine is also characterized by a commitment to the respect of human rights: its concern is not spreading democracy but showing that liberal democracy can effectively deliver at home and abroad more efficiently than authoritarian systems. The Biden Doctrine must not only focus on the revival of democracy but also face the challenge posed by authoritarianism’s appeal. The Doctrine must stand up against authoritarian rule, to promote liberal democratic government and respect for human rights as a solution to the distrust of democracy, in the era of cold democracies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cold and hypoxia are two stressors that are frequently combined and investigated in the scientific literature. Despite the growing literature regarding normobaric hypoxia (NH) and hypobaric hypoxia (HH), responses between females and males are less often evaluated. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the physiological sex differences following a cold-stress test under normoxia, normobaric- and hypobaric hypoxia. A total of n = 10 females (24.8 ± 5.1 years) and n = 10 males (30.3 ± 6.3 years) from a university population volunteered for this study. The cold-stress test (CST) of the right hand (15°C for 2 min) was performed using a randomised crossover design in normobaric normoxia, NH and HH. The change (Δ) from baseline to post-CST up to 15 min was analysed for cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC) and the hands’ skin temperature, whilst the mean values across time (post-CST up to 15 min) were assessed for peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), thermal sensation- and comfort. Pressure pain threshold (PPT) was assessed after the post-CST 15 min period. The hands’ skin temperature drop was higher (p = 0.01) in the female group (Δ3.3 ± 1.5°C) compared to the male group (Δ1.9 ± 0.9°C) only in NH. Females (−0.9 ± 0.5) rated this temperature drop in NH to feel significantly colder (p = 0.02) compared to the males (−0.2 ± 0.7). No differences were observed between sexes in NN, NH, and HH for ΔCVC, SpO2, thermal comfort and PPT. In conclusion, females and males show similar reactions after a CST under normoxia and hypoxia. Sex differences were observed in the local skin temperature response and thermal sensation only in NH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calmodulin-binding transcription activator (CAMTA) is a transcription factor family containing calmodulin (CaM) binding sites and is involved in plant development. Although CAMTAs in Arabidopsis have been extensively investigated, the functions of CAMTAs remain largely unclear in peaches. In this study, we identified five peach CAMTAs which contained conserved CG-1 box, ANK repeats, CaM binding domain (CaMBD) and IQ motifs. Overexpression in tobacco showed that PpCAMTA1/2/3 were located in the nucleus, while PpCAMTA4 and PpCAMTA5 were located in the plasma membrane. Increased expression levels were observed for PpCAMTA1 and PpCAMTA3 during peach fruit ripening. Expression of PpCAMTA1 was induced by cold treatment and was inhibited by ultraviolet B irradiation (UV-B). Driven by AtCAMTA3 promoter, PpCAMTA1/2/3 were overexpressed in Arabidopsis mutant. Here, we characterized peach PpCAMTA1, representing an ortholog of AtCAMTA3. PpCAMTA1 expression in Arabidopsis complements the developmental deficiencies of the camta2,3 mutant, and restored the plant size to the wild type level. Moreover, overexpressing PpCAMTA1 in camta2,3 mutant inhibited salicylic acid (SA) biosynthesis and expression of SA-related genes, resulting in a susceptibility phenotype to Pst DC3000. Taken together, our results provide new insights for CAMTAs in peach fruit and indicate that PpCAMTA1 is associated with response to stresses during development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to find an efficient, economical and feasible method for soft ripening storage of kiwifruit, two softening methods (on-vine, cold) were utilized for the 'Ganlv-2' kiwifruit (Actinidia. eriantha) cultivar. A comprehensive evaluation was conducted on the quality changes in 'Ganlv-2' under different methods after fruit ripening by principal component analysis and mathematical modeling. Compared to kiwifruit under cold softening, kiwifruit treated with on-vine soft ripening had slightly greater sugar-acid ratios and flesh firmness and higher contents of dry matter, soluble solids, and soluble sugar. The titratable acid content was slightly lower in the on-vine group than in the cold group. The sensory evaluation results manifested little difference in fruit flavor between the two groups. However, at the end of the trial, the overripe taste of the on-vine group was lighter and the taste was sweeter than those of the cold group. More aromatic substances were emitted from the kiwifruit in the on-vine group. According to the mathematic model, there was no significant difference in fruit quality and flavor between the on-vine and traditional cold groups. The fruit in the on-vine group had a stronger flavor and lighter overripe flavor when they reached the edible state. This paper provided a novel storage method of A. eriantha, it can reduce the cost of traditional cold storage and reduce the pressure on centralized harvesting, and the feasibility of this method was verified from the fruit quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]