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A novel educational tool helps teach intestinal absorption in physiology--We have designed an interesting educational tool to help sophomores learn intestinal absorption in physiology course. In the study group (2019), 51 sophomores from biomedical engineering were encouraged to learn the intestinal absorption knowledge through reading materials and group discussion. Then, using the form of flipped class, they stepped on the podium and simulated and explained the absorption processes with designed paper props as educational tool. In contrast, the control group (2018), 52 sophomores from the same specialty had taken the same professional courses before. The result of theoretical test showed the average score in the study group was higher than that in the control group. The questionnaire analysis showed the positive role of the education tool in their learning efficacy. To sum up, using our tool has achieved better teaching effects than the traditional lecture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical activity is beneficial for health. It has been shown to improve brain functioning and cognition, reduce severity of mood disorders, as well as facilitate healthy sleep and healthy aging. Sleep has been studied in healthy aged mice and absolute slow-wave-activity levels (SWA, electroencephalogram power between 0.75 and 4.0 Hz) in non-rapid-eye-movement sleep (NREM) were elevated, suggesting changes in brain connectivity. To investigate whether physical activity can diminish this aging-induced effect, mice of three age groups were provided with a running wheel (RW) for 1–3 months (6-months-old, n = 9; 18-months-old, n = 9; 24–months-old, n = 8) and were compared with control sedentary mice (n = 11, n = 8 and n = 9 respectively). Two weeks before the sleep-wake recordings the running wheels were removed. The electroencephalogram (EEG) and electromyogram were continuously recorded during undisturbed 24 h baseline (BL) and a sleep-deprivation was conducted during the first 6 h of the second day. Increased waking and decreased NREM sleep was found in the young RW mice, compared to young controls. These effects were not evident in the 18 and 24 months old mice. Unlike sleep architecture, we found that SWA was altered throughout the whole age spectrum. Notably, SWA was increased with aging and attenuated with exercise, exhibiting the lowest levels in the young RW mice. To utilize the cross-age revealing features of SWA, we applied machine learning techniques and found that characteristic information regarding age and exercise was enclosed in SWA. In addition, with cluster analysis, we could classify and accurately distinguish the different groups based solely on their SWA. Therefore, our study comprises a three-fold contribution: (a) effects of exercise on sleep are sustained following 2 weeks after removal of the wheel, (b) we show that EEG SWA can be used as a physiological marker of brain age in the mouse, (c) long-term voluntary regular age-matched exercise leads to a younger phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic energy expenditure during human gait is poorly understood. Mechanical energy loss during heel strike contributes to this energy expenditure. Previous work has estimated the energy absorption during heel strike as 0.8 J using an effective foot mass model. The aim of our study is to investigate the possibility of determining the energy absorption by more directly estimating the work done by the ground reaction force, the force-integral method. Concurrently another aim is to compare this method of direct determination of work to the method of an effective foot mass model. Participants of our experimental study were asked to walk barefoot at preferred speed. Ground reaction force and lower leg kinematics were collected at high sampling frequency (3000 Hz; 1295 Hz), with tight synchronization. The work done by the ground reaction force is 3.8 J, estimated by integrating this force over the foot-ankle deformation. The effective mass model is improved by dropping the assumption that foot-ankle deformation is maximal at the instant of the impact force peak. On theoretical grounds it is clear that in the presence of substantial damping that peak force and peak deformation do not occur simultaneously. The energy absorption results, due the vertical force only, corresponding to the force-integral method is similar to the results of the improved application of the effective mass model (2.7 J; 2.5 J). However the total work done by the ground reaction force calculated by the force-integral method is significantly higher than that of the vertical component alone. We conclude that direct estimation of the work done by the ground reaction force is possible and preferable over the use of the effective foot mass model. Assuming that energy absorbed is lost, the mechanical energy loss of heel strike is around 3.8 J for preferred walking speeds (≈ 1.3 m/s), which contributes to about 15–20% of the overall metabolic cost of transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transfer of seaweeds from subtidal bottoms to nearby intertidal rocky shores is a common but often overlooked phenomenon. Freshly detached seaweeds often represent critical trophic subsidies for herbivores living in upper-shore rocky intertidal areas, such as the marine snail Diloma nigerrima. This species relies on three species of seaweeds for food and displays feeding strategies to deal with a resource that is scarce and at times unpredictable. This study focused on the nutritional quality of freshly detached algae (Durvillaea antarctica, Lessonia spicata and Lessonia trabeculata) and measured Diloma nigerrima’s algal consumption rates in trials with and without choice. Absorption efficiency and growth of individual snails fed on each alga were also measured. Durvillaea antarctica had the highest nutritional quality and was the most consumed algae in both single and multiple-choice trials. Absorption efficiency was also highest for D. antarctica but growth rates of snails fed with this species were similar to those fed with the other algae. Combined, these results suggest that D. nigerrima has the ability to discriminate among seaweeds based on their nutritional quality. A potential increase in oxygen uptake when D. nigerrima is consuming the preferred food item is also proposed as a plausible hypothesis to explain the mismatch between snails’ preference and growth rate. These results aim to guide further studies on trophic subsidies and their role in coastal systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Particulate matter (PM) with a median diameter <2.5 μm, is associated with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. We previously reported the biological effects of PM in vivo, and although neutrophils play an important role in initiating inflammation, few reports have focused on the relationship between PM inhalation and immune responses. Here, we investigated the effect of PM particle size on neutrophils, including their endocytosis activity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Flow cytometry analysis indicated that 1 μm particles are readily endocytosed by neutrophils and that endocytosis is reduced at 4 °C. Inhibitors of the pleckstrin homology domain of dynamin repressed this process; however, GTPase and clathrin inhibitors did not affect endocytosis. Endocytosis by neutrophils in Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)- and MyD88-knockout mice was reduced compared with that in wild-type mice, indicating that TLR4 and MyD88 are important for the process. Neutrophil-mediated endocytosis caused oxidative stress, and N -acetylcysteine enhanced endocytosis. Expression levels of the oxidative stress markers, heme oxygenase-1 and p62 protein, were increased in an endocytosis-dependent manner. Phagocytosed neutrophils produced IL-6 and TNFα, whose production was decreased by dynamin inhibitors. We observed that infiltrated CD11b-positive cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid endocytose PMs. Overall, these results indicate that endocytosis and ROS production via TLR4 are important for the initiation of immune responses by neutrophils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sweat glands maximum ion reabsorption rates were investigated (n = 12, 21.7 ± 3.0 years, 59.4 ± 9.8 kg, 166.9 ± 10.4 cm and 47.1 ± 7.5 mL/kg/min) during two separate endogenous protocols; cycling at 30% (LEX) and 60% VO2max (MEX) and one exogenous trial; passive heating (PH) (43°C water lower leg immersion) in 27°C, 50%RH. Oesophageal temperature (Tes), skin temperature (Tsk), and forearm, chest and lower back sweat rate (SR) and galvanic skin conductance (GSC) were measured. Salivary aldosterone was measured pre-and postheating (n = 3). Using the ØSR threshold for an increasing ΔGSC to identify maximum sweat ion reabsorption rate revealed higher reabsorption rates during MEX compared to PH (mean of all regions: 0.63 ± 0.28 vs. 0.44 ± 0.3 mg/cm²/min, P < 0.05). It was not possible to identify the ion reabsorption rate during LEX for some participants. Tes and mean Tsk were different between conditions but mean body temperature (Tb) and local Tsk (forearm, chest and back) were similar (P > 0.05). Aldosterone increased more during MEX (72.8 ± 36.6 pg/mL) compared to PH (39.2 ± 17.5 pg/mL) and LEX (1.8 ± 9.7 pg/mL). The back had a higher threshold than the forearm (P < 0.05) but it was similar to the chest (P > 0.05) (mean of all conditions; 0.64 ± 0.33, 0.42 ± 0.25, 0.54 ± 0.3 mg/cm²/min, respectively). Although the differences between conditions may be influenced by thermal or nonthermal mechanism, our results indicate a possibility that the sweat glands maximum ion reabsorption rates may be different between exercise and passive heating without mediating skin regional differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current study was designed to use the newly obtained cellulose from waste flower spikes of Thypa latifolia plant for plasmid DNA adsorption. Cellulose was isolated according to a previously described method including acid and base treatment, and cellulose content was recorded as 17%. T. latifolia cellulose was physicochemically characterized via FT-IR, TGA and SEM techniques. Detailed mechanism of plasmid DNA adsorption by newly isolated cellulose was described using chemical quantum calculations. To check the effect of Cu ++ immobilization on the affinity of cellulose for plasmid DNA, copper ions were immobilized onto T. latifolia cellulose. pUC18 plasmid DNA was used for adsorption studies. Membranes prepared with only T. latifolia cellulose and Cu ++ immobilized T. latifolia cellulose revealed different adsorption ratios as 43.9 and 86.9% respectively. This newly isolated cellulose from waste flower spikes of T. latifolia can be utilized as a suitable carrier for plasmid DNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out to demonstrate novel use of pharmacokinetic approaches to characterize drug behaviors/movements in the vegetables with implications to food safety. The absorption, distribution, metabolism and most importantly, the elimination of tetracycline (TC) and sulfamethoxazole (SMX) in edible plants Brassica rapa chinensis and Ipomoea aquatica grown hydroponically were demonstrated and studied using non-compartmental pharmacokinetic analysis. The results revealed drug-dependent and vegetable-dependent pharmacokinetic differences and indicated that ephemeral vegetables could have high capacity accumulating antibiotics (up to 160 μg g-1 for TC and 38 μg g-1 for SMX) within hours. TC concentration in the root (Cmax) could reach 11 times higher than that in the cultivation fluid and 3–28 times higher than the petioles/stems. Based on the volume of distribution (Vss), SMX was 3–6 times more extensively distributed than TC. Both antibiotics showed evident, albeit slow elimination phase with elimination half-lives ranging from 22 to 88 hours. For the first time drug elimination through the roots of a plant was demonstrated, and by viewing the root as a central compartment and continuous infusion without a loading dose as drug administration mode, it is possible to pharmacokinetically monitor the movement of antibiotics and their fate in the vegetables with more detailed information not previously available. Phyto-pharmacokinetic could be a new area worth developing new models for the assessment of veterinary drugs in edible plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bioavailability of heavy metals strongly depends on their speciation in the environment. Adsorption (ADS) and coprecipitation (CPT) on amorphous metal hydroxides are important processes, controlling the fates of heavy metals in an aqueous environment. This work studied the bioavailability of Cu, Cd, Ni, and Pb adsorbed on and/or coprecipitated with amorphous iron and iron/aluminum mixed hydroxides to the wetland plant Phragmites australis. After a 13-day treatment, there was an apparent uptake of the heavy metals by the plant, and the amount of metal bioaccumulation was measurably different for different association forms (ADS vs. CPT). The bioaccumulation of Cd associated with FeAl(OH) was greater than that with Fe(OH); the adsorbed metals were found to be more bioavailable than the coprecipitated forms for most of the treatments while the aging treatment significantly reduced the bioaccumulation of ADS metals. In the single metal treatment, root metal concentrations in the Fe(OH) ADS system followed the order Ni (68 mg kg) > Cu (32 mg kg) > Cd (28 mg kg) > Pb (9 mg kg), while the CPT system followed the order of Cu (30 mg kg) > Ni (22 mg kg) > Pb (9 mg kg) > Cd (7 mg kg). The order of metal accumulation in a combined metal treatment was similar to that for single metal treatments, but observed Ni concentration declines by 22 and 71 % and Cu and Cd concentrations increase by 30 and 50 % (for CPT and ADS treatments, respectively), while Pb concentrations increased by 30~50 % in both of them. When treated with low-molecular-weight organic acids (LMWOAs), metal desorption, indicative of metal oxide bonding strength and metal bioavailability, was consistent with metal accumulation in the plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background We have previously shown that meal ingestion induces cognitive perception (sensations) with a hedonic dimension (well-being) that depends on the characteristics of the meal and the appropriateness of the digestive response. The aim of the present study is to identify metabolomic biomarkers of the cognitive response to meal ingestion. Methods In 18 healthy subjects, the response to a test meal (Edanec, 1 kcal/mL) ingested until maximum satiation (50 mL/min) was assessed. Perception measurements and blood samples were taken before, at the end of the meal, and 20 min after ingestion. The cognitive response and the hedonic dimension were measured on 10 cm scales. Metabolomic analysis was performed using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and values of triglycerides, insulin, peptide YY (PYY), and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) were determined using conventional laboratory techniques. Key Results Ingestion up to maximum satiation induced sensation of fullness and decreased digestive well-being. The total amount ingested by each subject correlated with the basal sensation of hunger, but not with other sensations or blood metabolite levels. Immediately after ingestion, satiation correlated with an increase in glucose ( R = 0.49; p = 0.038) and valine levels ( R = 0.48; p = 0.043). Twenty-minutes after finalizing ingestion, triglyceride levels had significantly increased which correlated with the recovery in well-being ( R = 0.48; p = 0.046) and the decrease in desire to eat a food of choice ( R = −0.56; p = 0.016). The increase in lipids inversely correlated with abdominal discomfort ( R = −0.51; p = 0.032). Conclusions & Inferences Cognitive and hedonic responses to meal ingestion correlate with changes in circulating metabolites, which may serve as objective biomarkers of perception. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: While studies using global positioning systems (GPS) have the potential to refine measures of exposure to the neighbourhood environment in health research, one limitation is that they do not typically identify time spent undertaking journeys in motorised vehicles when contact with the environment is reduced. This paper presents and tests a novel methodology to explore the impact of this concern. Methods: Using a case study of exposure assessment to food environments, an unsupervised computational algorithm is employed in order to infer two travel modes: motorised and non-motorised, on the basis of which trips were extracted. Additional criteria are imposed in order to improve robustness of the algorithm. Results: After removing noise in the GPS data and motorised vehicle journeys, 82.43% of the initial GPS points remained. In addition, after comparing a sub-sample of trips classified visually of motorised, non-motorised and mixed mode trips with the algorithm classifications, it was found that there was an agreement of 88%. The measures of exposure to the food environment calculated before and after algorithm classification were strongly correlated. Conclusion: Identifying non-motorised exposures to the food environment makes little difference to exposure estimates in urban children but might be important for adults or rural populations who spend more time in motorised vehicles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Filtration through the kidney eliminates toxins, manages electrolyte balance, and controls water homeostasis. Reabsorption of water from the luminal fluid of the nephron occurs through aquaporin-2 (AQP2) water pores in principal cells that line the kidney-collecting duct. This vital process is impeded by formation of an "actin barrier" that obstructs the passive transit of AQP2 to the plasma membrane. Bidirectional control of AQP2 trafficking is managed by hormones and signaling enzymes. We have discovered that vasopressin-independent facets of this homeostatic mechanism are under the control of A-Kinase Anchoring Protein 220 (AKAP220; product of the Akap11 gene). CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing and imaging approaches show that loss of AKAP220 disrupts apical actin networks in organoid cultures. Similar defects are evident in tissue sections from AKAP220-KO mice. Biochemical analysis of AKAP220-null kidney extracts detected reduced levels of active RhoA GTPase, a well-known modulator of the actin cytoskeleton. Fluorescent imaging of kidney sections from these genetically modified mice revealed that RhoA and AQP2 accumulate at the apical surface of the collecting duct. Consequently, these animals are unable to appropriately dilute urine in response to overhydration. We propose that membrane-proximal signaling complexes constrained by AKAP220 impact the actin barrier dynamics and AQP2 trafficking to ensure water homeostasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrition deals with ingestion of foods, digestion, absorption, transport of nutrients, intermediarymetabolism, underlying anabolism and catabolism, and excretion of unabsorbed nutrients and metabolites. In addition, nutrition interacts with gene expressions, which are involved in the regulation of animal performances. Our laboratory is concerned with the improvement of animal productions, such as milks, meats and eggs, with molecular nutritional aspects. The present review shows overviews on the nutritional regulation of metabolism, physiological functions and gene expressions to improve animal production in chickens and dairy cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trends in the development of current concepts of health as the ability to adapt require personalization and a preventive approach in the evaluation and prognostication of individual health. This can be put into practice on the basis of a prenosological approach, which is necessary in occupational medicine and physiology, especially in aviation and space medicine. We present here an analysis of data from space and terrestrial model studies of autonomic regulation, and data on heart rate variability are interpreted in relation to the concept of adaptation risk and is application to health assessment. Methods for individual prenosological monitoring have shown to have high diagnostic effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcium (Ca2+) is vital for multiple processes in the body, and maintenance of the electrolyte concentration is required for everyday physiological function. In the kidney, and more specifically, in the late distal convoluted tubule and connecting tubule, the fine-tuning of Ca2+ reabsorption from the pro-urine takes place. Here, Ca2+ enters the epithelial cell via the transient receptor potential vanilloid receptor type 5 (TRPV5) channel, diffuses to the basolateral side bound to calbindin-D28k and is extruded to the blood compartment via the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger 1 (NCX1) and the plasma membrane Ca2+ ATPase (PMCA). Traditionally, PMCA1 was considered to be the primary Ca2+ pump in this process. However, in recent studies TRPV5-expressing tubules were shown to highly express PMCA4. Therefore, PMCA4 may have a predominant role in renal Ca2+ handling. This study aimed to elucidate the role of PMCA4 in Ca2+ homeostasis by characterizing the Ca2+ balance, and renal and duodenal Ca2+-related gene expression in PMCA4 knockout mice. The daily water intake of PMCA4 knockout mice was significantly lower compared to wild type littermates. There was no significant difference in serum Ca2+ level or urinary Ca2+ excretion between groups. In addition, renal and duodenal mRNA expression levels of Ca2+-related genes, including TRPV5, TRPV6, calbindin-D28k, calbindin-D9k, NCX1 and PMCA1 were similar in wild type and knockout mice. Serum FGF23 levels were significantly increased in PMCA4 knockout mice. In conclusion, PMCA4 has no discernible role in normal renal Ca2+ handling as no urinary Ca2+ wasting was observed. Further investigation of the exact role of PMCA4 in the distal convoluted tubule and connecting tubule is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintenance of protein homeostasis is essential for survival of all organisms. In bacteria, the protein quality control system has a broad physiological impact beyond heat shock resistance, being involved in virulence, antibiotic resistance, as well as protection against environmental stresses. Its contribution to rejuvenation and growth arrest suggests interference with protein quality control to be a novel antimicrobial strategy. Remarkably, a protein quality control module originating from environmental strains has been found to be horizontally transferred to predominant clonal groups of bacteria providing exquisite thermotolerance to recently emerged global pathogens suggesting that novel features related to protein homeostasis contribute to the transition to new environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The absence of NCC does not cause significant salt wasting in NCC deficient mice under basal conditions. We hypothesized that ENaC and pendrin play important roles in compensatory salt absorption in the setting of NCC inactivation, and their inhibition and/or downregulation can cause significant salt wasting in NCC KO mice. Methods: WT and NCC KO mice were treated with a daily injection of either amiloride, an inhibitor of ENaC, or acetazolamide (ACTZ), a blocker of salt and bicarbonate reabsorption in the proximal tubule and an inhibitor of carbonic anhydrases in proximal tubule and intercalated cells, or a combination of acetazolamide plus amiloride for defined durations. Animals were subjected to daily balance studies. At the end of treatment, kidneys were harvested and examined. Blood samples were collected for electrolytes and acid base analysis. Results: Amiloride injection significantly increased the urine output (UO) in NCC KO mice (from 1.3 ml/day before to 2.5 ml/day after amiloride, p<0.03, n = 4) but caused only a slight change in UO in WT mice (p>0.05). The increase in UO in NCC KO mice was associated with a significant increase in sodium excretion (from 0.25 mmol/24 hrs at baseline to 0.35 mmol/24 hrs after amiloride injection, p<0.05, n = 4). Daily treatment with ACTZ for 6 days resulted in >80% reduction of kidney pendrin expression in both WT and NCC KO mice. However, ACTZ treatment noticeably increased urine output and salt excretion only in NCC KO mice (with urine output increasing from a baseline of 1.1 ml/day to 2.3 ml/day and sodium excretion increasing from 0.22 mmole/day before to 0.31 mmole/day after ACTZ) in NCC KO mice; both parameters were significantly higher than in WT mice. Western blot analysis demonstrated significant enhancement in ENaC expression in medulla and cortex of NCC KO and WT mice in response to ACTZ injection for 6 days, and treatment with amiloride in ACTZ-pretreated mice caused a robust increase in salt excretion in both NCC KO and WT mice. Pendrin KO mice did not display a significant increase in urine output or salt excretion after treatment with amiloride or ACTZ. Conclusion: 1. ENaC plays an important role in salt reabsorption in NCC KO mice. 2. NCC contributes to compensatory salt reabsorption in the setting of carbonic anhydrase inhibition, which is associated with increased delivery of salt from the proximal tubule and the down regulation of pendrin. 3. ENaC is upregulated by ACTZ treatment and its inhibition by amiloride causes significant diuresis in NCC KO and WT mice. Despite being considered mild agents individually, we propose that the combination of acetazolamide and amiloride in the setting of NCC inhibition (i.e., hydrochlorothiazide) will be a powerful diuretic regimen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose To indirectly measure stromal riboflavin penetration using commercially available riboflavin solutions and new and existing epithelium-off, trans-epithelial and iontophoresis-assisted delivery protocols. Methods Forty porcine eyes were divided into eight groups. Group 1: Ricrolin applied to the de-epithelialised cornea for 30 min; Group 2: epithelium-intact, no treatment; Groups 3-5: epithelium-intact, 30-min application of Ricrolin TE, Mediocross TE or ParaCel/Vibex, respectively. Group 6: epithelium-intact, Ricrolin+ iontophoresis-assisted delivery for 5 min; Group 7: epithelium-intact, Ricrolin+ iontophoresis-assisted delivery for 5 min with a 20-min riboflavin soak; and Group 8: epithelium-intact, Ricrolin+ iontophoresis-assisted delivery for 5 min, 15-min soak and another 5 min of iontophoresis. After a saline wash, light transmission spectra were obtained from each cornea, before and after epithelial removal. Results Corneas in groups 1 and 8 showed a distinct riboflavin absorption peak between 400 and 520 nm. The optical density of the corneas in groups 3-7 did not differ significantly from that of the untreated corneas (group 2). Conclusions A modification to the standard iontophoresis trans-epithelial technique resulted in successful penetration of riboflavin into the stroma and appears to offer the most promise for epithelium-on cross-linking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The activation of the abscisic acid (ABA) signaling pathway reduces water loss from plants challenged by drought stress. The effect of drought-induced ABA signaling on the defense and nutrition allocation of plants is largely unknown. We postulated that these changes can affect herbivorous insects. We studied the effects of drought on different feeding stages of pea aphids in the wild-type A17 of Medicago truncatula and ABA signaling pathway mutant sta-1. We examined the impact of drought on plant water status, induced plant defense signaling via the abscisic acid (ABA), jasmonic acid (JA), and salicylic acid (SA) pathways, and on the host nutritional quality in terms of leaf free amino acid content. During the penetration phase of aphid feeding, drought decreased epidermis/ mesophyll resistance but increased mesophyll/phloem resistance of A17 but not sta-1 plants. Quantification of transcripts associated with ABA, JA and SA signaling indicated that the drought-induced up-regulation of ABA signaling decreased the SA-dependent defense but increased the JA-dependent defense in A17 plants. During the phloem-feeding phase, drought had little effect on the amino acid concentrations and the associated aphid phloem-feeding parameters in both plant genotypes. In the xylem absorption stage, drought decreased xylem absorption time of aphids in both genotypes because of decreased water potential. Nevertheless, the activation of the ABA signaling pathway increased water-use efficiency of A17 plants by decreasing the stomatal aperture and transpiration rate. In contrast, the water potential of sta-1 plants (unable to close stomata) was too low to support xylem absorption activity of aphids; the aphids on sta-1 plants had the highest hemolymph osmolarity and lowest abundance under drought conditions. Taken together this study illustrates the significance of cross-talk between biotic-abiotic signaling pathways in plant-aphid interaction, and reveals the mechanisms leading to alter aphid fecundity in water stresses plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar adsorption may lower concentrations of soluble metals in pore water of sulphidic Cu/Pb–Zn mine tailings. Unlike soil, high levels of salinity and soluble cations are present in tailing pore water, which may affect biochar adsorption of metals from solution. In the present study, removal of soluble copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) ions by soft- (pine) and hard-wood (jarrah) biochars pyrolysed at high temperature (about 700 °C) was evaluated under typical ranges of pH and salinity conditions resembling those in pore water of sulphidic tailings, prior to their direct application into the tailings. Surface alkalinity, cation exchange capacity, and negative surface charge of biochars affected Cu and Zn adsorption capacities. Quantitative comparisons were provided by fitting the adsorption equilibrium data with either the homogeneous or heterogeneous surface adsorption models (i.e. Langmuir and Freundlich, respectively). Accordingly, the jarrah biochar showed higher Cu and Zn adsorption capacity ( Q max = 4.39 and 2.31 mg/g, respectively) than the softwood pine biochar ( Q max = 1.47 and 1.00 mg/g). Copper and Zn adsorption by the biochars was favoured by high pH conditions under which they carried more negative charges and Cu and Zn ions were predicted undergoing hydrolysis and polymerization. Within the tested range, salinity had relatively weak effects on the adsorption, which perhaps influenced the surface charge and induced competition for negative charged sites between Na + and exchangeable Ca 2+ and/or heavy metal ions. Large amounts of waste wood/timber at many mine sites present a cost-effective opportunity to produce biochars for remediation of sulphidic tailings and seepage water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was undertaken to evaluate dietary glutamine supplementation effects on gilthead sea bream performance, intestinal nutrient absorption capacity, hepatic and intestinal glutamine metabolism and oxidative status. For that purpose gilthead sea bream juveniles (mean weight 13.0 g) were fed four isolipidic (18% lipid) and isonitrogenous (43% protein) diets supplemented with 0, 0.5, 1 and 2% glutamine for 6 weeks. Fish performance, body composition and intestinal nutrient absorption capacity were not affected by dietary glutamine levels. Hepatic and intestinal glutaminase (GlNase), glutamine synthetase (GSase), alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and glutamate dehydrogenase activities were also unaffected by dietary glutamine supplementation. In the intestine GlNase activity was higher and GSase/GlNase ratio was two-fold lower than in the liver, suggesting a higher use of glutamine for energy production by the intestine than by the liver. The liver showed higher catalase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities, while the intestine presented higher glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase activities and oxidised glutathione content, which seems to reveal a higher glutathione dependency of the intestinal antioxidant response. Total and reduced glutathione contents in liver and intestine and superoxide dismutase activity in the intestine were enhanced by dietary glutamine, though lipid peroxidation values were not affected. Overall, differences between liver and intestine glutamine metabolism and antioxidant response were identified and the potential of dietary glutamine supplementation to gilthead sea bream's antioxidant response was elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pH values for volumes (50 ml) of spring water were measured for 12 hours while being exposed to a weak (8±4 μT) decelerating frequency-modulated magnetic field that has been shown to diminish the growth of cancer cells and inhibit the movement of planarian. Compared to sham field-exposed water, the magnetic field-exposed water displayed a greater increase in pH (towards alkalinity) that involved an increase between 0.5 and 1 pH units after about 7 to 8 hr. This shift occurred slowly as successive 0.02 pH transient peaks (about 7 per s) that were between 20 to 40 ms in duration. This pattern was not observed in water exposed to background conditions (0.11 μT). These results are consistent with the hypothesis that properties of water exposed to specific patterns of magnetic fields produced by a patterned series of 3 ms voltage durations generated from computer software can produce transient temporal properties in water that converge with those associated with the cerebral cortical activity coupled to consciousness. Several quantitative solutions for small and very large volumes of water support this possibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Much of what is known about crocodilian nutrition and growth has come from animals propagated in captivity, but captive animals from the families Crocodilidae and Alligatoridae respond differently to similar diets. Since there are few comparative studies of crocodilian digestive physiology to help explain these differences, we investigated young Alligator mississippiensis and Crocodylus porosus in terms of (1) gross and microscopic morphology of the intestine, (2) activity of the membrane-bound digestive enzymes aminopeptidase-N, maltase, and sucrase, and (3) nutrient absorption by carrier-mediated and paracellular pathways. We also measured gut morphology of animals over a larger range of body sizes. The two species showed different allometry of length and mass of the gut, with A. mississippiensis having a steeper increase in intestinal mass with body size, and C. porosus having a steeper increase in intestinal length with body size. Both species showed similar patterns of magnification of the intestinal surface area, with decreasing magnification from the proximal to distal ends of the intestine. Although A. mississippiensis had significantly greater surface-area magnification overall, a compensating significant difference in gut length between species meant that total surface area of the intestine was not significantly different from that of C. porosus. The species differed in enzyme activities, with A. mississippiensis having significantly greater ability to digest carbohydrates relative to protein than did C. porosus. These differences in enzyme activity may help explain the differences in performance between the crocodilian families when on artificial diets. Both A. mississippiensis and C. porosus showed high absorption of 3-O methyl D-glucose (absorbed via both carrier-mediated and paracellular transport), as expected. Both species also showed surprisingly high levels of L-glucose-uptake (absorbed paracellularly), with fractional absorptions as high as those previously seen only in small birds and bats. Analyses of absorption rates suggested a relatively high proportional contribution of paracellular (i.e., non-mediated) uptake to total uptake of nutrients in both species. Because we measured juveniles, and most paracellular studies to date have been on adults, it is unclear whether high paracellular absorption is generally high within crocodilians or whether these high values are specific to juveniles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hesperetin, the aglycone of hesperidin, occurs naturally in citrus fruits. It exerts extensive pharmacological activities. However, hesperetin’s poor solubility and low bioavailability limit its wide application. In order to overcome these limitations, recently a series of novel hesperitin derivatives containing Mannich base moieties were synthesized and the anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated, among which MTBH (8-methylene-tert-butylamine-3′,5,7-trihydroxy-4′-methoxyflavanone) showed a significantly improved water solubility, and promising anti-inflammatory activity in vitro and in vivo compared with hesperitin. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the permeability and transport mechanisms of MTBH, using Caco-2 cell monolayer. MTBH was effectively absorbed by Caco-2 cells in a concentration-dependent manner in both directions at 7.5–480 μM. Moreover, MTBH showed pH dependent and TEER values independent transport in both directions. Transport of MTBH was obviously decreased in the presence of sodium azide (an ATP inhibitor) or CCCP (a proton-ionophore). MTBH transport was markedly reduced by MCT inhibitors quercetin or phloretin, and the substrate analogs l -lactate or benzoic acid. We verified MCT1, MCT3, MCT4, MCT5, and MCT6 were expressed in Caco-2 cells by western blot. Silence MCT1 with siRNA resulted in significant inhibition of MTBH uptake. The verapamil, a P-gp inhibitor, and Ko143, a BCRP inhibitor, had no effect on the transport of MTBH. However, MK-571 or probenecid, MRP2 inhibitors, led to an apparently decrease in the efflux of MTBH. In summary, MTBH was absorbed by transcellular passive diffusion and a pH dependent mechanism mediated by MCT1. MRP2 but P-gp or BCRP may be involved in the transport of MTBH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A complex feedback mechanism between parathyroid hormone (PTH), 1,25(OH)2D3 (1,25D), and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) maintains mineral homeostasis, in part by regulating calcium and phosphate absorption/reabsorption. Previously, we showed that 1,25D regulates mineral homeostasis by repressing dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1) via the vitamin D receptor pathway. Similar to 1,25D, PTH may modulate DMP1, but the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Immortalized murine cementoblasts (OCCM.30), similar to osteoblasts and known to express DMP1, were treated with PTH (1-34). Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blot revealed that PTH decreased DMP1 gene transcription (85%) and protein expression (30%), respectively. PTH mediated the downregulation of DMP1 via the cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) pathway. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the decreased localization of DMP1 in vivo in cellular cementum and alveolar bone of mice treated with a single dose (50 µg/kg) of PTH (1-34). RNA-seq was employed to further identify patterns of gene expression shared by PTH and 1,25D in regulating DMP1, as well as other factors involved in mineral homeostasis. PTH and 1,25D mutually upregulated 36 genes and mutually downregulated 27 genes by ≥2-fold expression (P ≤ 0.05). Many identified genes were linked with the regulation of bone/tooth homeostasis, cell growth and differentiation, calcium signaling, and DMP1 transcription. Validation of RNA-seq results via PCR array confirmed a similar gene expression pattern in response to PTH and 1,25D treatment. Collectively, these results suggest that PTH and 1,25D share complementary effects in maintaining mineral homeostasis by mutual regulation of genes/proteins associated with calcium and phosphate metabolism while also exerting distinct roles on factors modulating mineral metabolism. Furthermore, PTH may modulate phosphate homeostasis by downregulating DMP1 expression via the cAMP/PKA pathway. Targeting genes/proteins mutually governed by PTH and 1,25D may be a viable approach for designing new therapies for preserving mineralized tissue health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During metabolic acidosis, the cortical collecting duct (CCD) of the rabbit reverses the polarity of bicarbonate flux from net secretion to net absorption, and this is accomplished by increasing the proton secretory rate by α-intercalated cells (ICs) and decreasing bicarbonate secretion by β-ICs. To better characterize dynamic changes in H-secreting α-ICs, we examined their morphology in collecting ducts microdissected from kidneys of normal, acidotic, and recovering rabbits. α-ICs in defined axial regions varied in number and basolateral anion exchanger (AE)1 morphology, which likely reflects their relative activity and function along the collecting duct. Upon transition from CCD to outer medullary collecting duct from the outer stripe to the inner stripe, the number of α-ICs increases from 11.0 ± 1.2 to 15.4 ± 1.11 and to 32.0 ± 1.3 cells/200 μm, respectively. In the CCD, the basolateral structure defined by AE1 typically exhibited a pyramidal or conical shape, whereas in the medulla the morphology was elongated and shallow, resulting in a more rectangular shape. Furthermore, acidosis reversibly induced α-ICs in the CCD to acquire a more rectangular morphology concomitant with a transition from diffusely cytoplasmic to increased basolateral surface distribution of AE1 and apical polarization of B1-V-ATPase. The latter results are consistent with the supposition that morphological adaptation from the pyramidal to rectangular shape reflects a transition toward a more "active" configuration. In addition, α-ICs in the outer medullary collecting duct from the outer stripe exhibited cellular morphology strikingly similar to dendritic cells that may reflect a newly defined ancillary function in immune defense of the kidney. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chameleons perform large-amplitude eye movements that are frequently referred to as independent, or disconjugate. When prey (an insect) is detected, the chameleon's eyes converge to view it binocularly and 'lock' in their sockets so that subsequent visual tracking is by head movements. However, the extent of the eyes' independence is unclear. Forexample, can achameleon visually track two small targets simultaneously and monocularly, i.e. one with each eye? This is of special interest because eyemovements in ectotherms and birds are frequently independent, with optic nerves that are fully decussated and intertectal connections that are not as developed as in mammals. Here, we demonstrate that chameleons presented with two small targetsmoving in opposite directions can perform simultaneous, smooth, monocular, visual tracking. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of such a capacity. The fine patterns of the eye movements in monocular tracking were composed of alternating, longer, 'smooth' phases and abrupt 'step' events, similar to smooth pursuits and saccades. Monocular tracking differed significantly from binocular tracking with respect to both 'smooth' phases and 'step' events. We suggest that in chameleons, eye movements are not simply 'independent'.Rather, at the gross level, eyemovements are (i) disconjugate during scanning, (ii) conjugate during binocular tracking and (iii) disconjugate, but coordinated, during monocular tracking. At the fine level, eye movements are disconjugate in all cases. These results support the view that in vertebrates, basic monocular control is under a higher level of regulation that dictates the eyes' level of coordination according to context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was carried out at the experimental farm of DYSPUH&F, Nauni, Solan (H.P) during 2012-13 to find out the most suitable cultivar and pot size for producing the best quality and most presentable potted azaleas and laid out in CRD (factorial) with 45 treatment combinations of fifteen cultivars and three pot sizes replicated thrice with five pots treatment-1. Fifteen cultivars viz., 'John Herrens', 'Winter Hawk', 'White Rosebud', 'Boy-O-Boy', 'Summer Time', 'Pink Tama', 'Red Tomahawk', 'Shanghai Baby', 'Super Red', 'Nightingale', 'Empress', 'White Bouquet', 'Lady Love', 'Anniversary Joy' and 'Royalty' and three pot sizes i.e. 25 cm, 20 cm and 15 cm diameter pots, respectively were tested. The cv. 'White Bouquet' recorded maximum no. of shoots plant-1, plant spread, no. of flowers plant-1, no. of flowers plant-1 open at a time, duration of flowering and pot presentability score. However, the maximum values for plant height and shoot length were recorded in 'Royalty'; 'Empress' took maximum time for flower bud formation as well as flowering and 'Pink Tama' produced largest flowers. In regard to the effect of pot sizes, 25 cm diameter pots exhibited maximum plant height, maximum shoots plant-1, shoot length, plant spread, days for flower bud formation, time taken for flowering, no. of flowers plant-1, flower diameter, no. of flowers open at a time, duration of flowering and pot presentability score. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water ingestion by drinking is fundamental for ion homeostasis in marine fish. However, the fluid ingested requires processing to allow net water absorption in the intestine. The formation of luminal carbonate aggregates impacts on calcium homeostasis and requires epithelial HCO 3 − secretion to enable water absorption. In light of its endocrine importance in calcium handling and the indication of involvement in HCO 3 − secretion the present study was designed to expose the role of the parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) in HCO 3 − secretion, water absorption and the regulation of aqp1 gene expression in the anterior intestine of the sea bream. HCO 3 − secretion rapidly decreased when PTHrP(1–34) was added to anterior intestine of the sea bream mounted in Ussing chambers. The effect achieved a maximum inhibition of 60% of basal secretion rates, showing a threshold effective dose of 0.1 ng ml −1 compatible with reported plasma values of PTHrP. When applied in combination with the adenylate cyclase inhibitor (SQ 22.536, 100 μmol l −1 ) or the phospholipase C inhibitor (U73122, 10 μmol l −1 ) the effect of PTHrP(1–34) on HCO 3 − secretion was reduced by about 50% in both cases. In parallel, bulk water absorption measured in intestinal sacs was sensitive to inhibition by PTHrP. The inhibitory action conforms to a typical dose–response curve in the range of 0.1–1000 ng ml −1 , achieves a maximal effect of 60–65% inhibition from basal rates and shows threshold significant effects at hormone levels of 0.1 ng ml −1 . The action of PTHrP in water absorption was completely abolished in the presence of the adenylate cyclase inhibitor (SQ 22.536, 100 μmol l −1 ) and was insensitive to the phospholipase C inhibitor (U73122, 10 μmol l −1 ). In vivo injections of PTHrP(1–34) or the PTH/PTHrP receptor antagonist PTHrP(7–34) evoked respectively, a significant decrease or increase of aqp1ab , but not aqp1a . Overall the present results suggest that PTHrP acts as a key regulator of carbonate aggregate formation in the intestine of marine fish via its actions on water absorption, calcium regulation and HCO 3 − secretion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Road cycling performance is dependent on race tactics and pacing strategy. To optimise the pacing strategy for any race performed with no drafting, a numerical model was introduced, one that solves equations of motion while minimising the finishing time by varying the power output along the course. The power output was constrained by two different hydraulic models: the simpler critical power model for intermittent exercise (CPIE) and the more sophisticated Margaria-Morton model (M-M). These were compared with a constant power strategy (CPS). The simulation of the three different models was carried out on a fictional 75 kg cyclist, riding a 2,000 m course. This resulted in finishing times of 162.4, 155.8 and 159.3 s and speed variances of 0.58, 0.26 and 0.29 % for the CPS, CPIE and M-M simulations, respectively. Furthermore, the average power output was 469.7, 469.7 and 469.1 W for the CPS, CPIE and M-M simulations, respectively. The M-M model takes more physiological phenomena into consideration compared to the CPIE model and, therefore, contributes to an optimised pacing strategy that is more realistic. Therefore, the M-M model might be more suitable for future studies on optimal pacing strategy, despite the relatively slower finishing time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To construct stomatal conductance models and estimate stomatal O3 uptake for Fagus crenata , Quercus serrata , Quercus mongolica var. crispula and Betula platyphylla , stomatal conductance (gs) was measured in seedlings of the four tree species. Better estimates of gs were made by incorporating the acute effects of O3 on gs into the models and the models could explain 34–52% of the variability in gs. Although the O3 concentration was relatively high in spring from April to May, COU of F. crenata , Q. serrata and Q. mongolica var. crispula were relatively low and the ratios of COU in spring to total COU in one year were 16.8% in all tree species because of low g s limited mainly by leaf pre-maturation and/or low temperature. The COU of B. platyphylla were relatively high mainly because of rapid leaf maturation and lower optimal temperature for stomatal opening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluates the capacity of shrimp ( Farfantepenaeus aztecus) head to remove toxic Ni(II) ions from aqueous solutions. Relevant parameters that could affect the biosorption process, such as shrimp head pretreatment, solution pH level, contact time and initial Ni(II) concentration, were studied in batch systems. An increase in Ni(II) biosorption capacity and a reduction in the time required to reach Ni(II) biosorption equilibrium was manifested by shrimp head biomass pretreated by boiling in 0.5 N NaOH for 15 min; this biomass was thereafter denominated APSH. The optimum biosorption level of Ni(II) ions onto APSH was observed at pH 7.0. Biosorption increased significantly with rising initial Ni(II) concentration. In terms of biosorption dynamics, the pseudo-second-order kinetic model described Ni(II) biosorption onto APSH best. The equilibrium data adequately fitted the Langmuir isotherm model within the studied Ni(II) ion concentration range. According to this isotherm model, the maximum Ni(II) biosorption capacity of APSH was 104.22 mg/g. Results indicate that APSH could be used as a low-cost, environmentally friendly, and promising biosorbent with high biosorption capacity to remove Ni(II) from aqueous solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

8-Prenylnaringenin (8- PN) is a phytoestrogen with the highest estrogenic activity. The objective of the present study was to confirm the superiority of 8- PN on bone metabolisms and the estrogen receptor ( ER) subtype mediating effects of 8- PN. The osteoblast MC3T3-E1 and osteoclast-like cell line RAW264.7 were treated with 17 β-estradiol (10−8 mol/L), genistein (10−5 mol/L), daidzein (10−5 mol/L), 8- PN (10−5 mol/L) alone or in the presence of ER α antagonist MPP (10−7 mol/L) and ER β antagonist PTHPP (1.5 × 10−7 mol/L). It has been found that 8- PN did not affect osteoblast proliferation, and that 8- PN increased alkaline phosphatase ( ALP) activity, osteocalcin ( OCN) concentrations, and the mineralized nodules. 8- PN inhibited RAW264.7 differentiating into osteoclasts and reduced the pit area of bone resorption. 8- PN could also inhibit the protein and m RNA expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor- κB ligand ( RANKL) in osteoblasts, and conversely promote the expression of osteoprotegerin ( OPG). These effects of 8- PN were mainly inhibited not by PTHPP but by MPP and they were weaker than estrogen's effects but stronger than those of genistein and daidzein. In conclusion, the effects of 8- PN on promoting osteoblastic bone formation and inhibiting osteoclastic bone resorption were mediated by ER α instead of ER β and the efficacy was more potent than that of the two classic phytoestrogens: genistein and daidzein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transfer of arsenic from paddy field to rice is a major exposure route of the highly toxic element to humans. The aim of our study is to explore the effects of soil available phosphorus on As uptake by rice, and identify the effects of soil properties on arsenic transfer from soil to rice under actual field conditions. 56 pairs of topsoil and rice samples were collected. The relevant parameters in soil and the inorganic arsenic in rice grains were analyzed, and then all the results were treated by statistical methods. Results show that the main factors influencing the uptake by rice grain include soil pH and available phosphorus. The eventual impact of phosphorus is identified as the suppression of As uptake by rice grains. The competition for transporters from soil to roots between arsenic and phosphorus in rhizosphere soil has been a dominant feature. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Increasing use of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles [Me(O)NPs] in products means many will inevitably find their way into marine systems. Their likely fate here is sedimentation following hetero-aggregation with natural organic matter and/or free anions, putting benthic, sediment-dwelling and filter feeding organisms most at risk. In marine systems, Me(O)NPs can absorb to micro-organisms with potential for trophic transfer following consumption. Filter feeders, especially bivalves, accumulate Me(O)NPs through trapping them in mucus prior to ingestion. Benthic in-fauna may directly ingest sedimented Me(O)NPs. In fish, uptake is principally via the gut following drinking, whilst Me(O)NPs caught in gill mucus may affect respiratory processes and ion transport. Currently, environmentally-realistic Me(O)NP concentrations are unlikely to cause significant adverse acute health problems, however sub-lethal effects e.g. oxidative stresses have been noted in many organisms, often deriving from dissolution of Ag, Cu or Zn ions, and this could result in chronic health impacts. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Even though antimony (Sb) and arsenic (As) are chemical analogs, differences exist on how they are taken up and translocated in plants. We investigated 1) Sb uptake, efflux and speciation in arsenic hyperaccumulator Pteris vittata after 1 d exposure to 1.6 or 8 mg/L antimonite (SbIII) or antimonate (SbV), 2) Sb uptake by PV accessions from Florida, China, and Brazil after 7 d exposure to 8 mg/L SbIII, and 3) Sb uptake and oxidation by excised PV fronds after 1 d exposure to 8 mg/L SbIII or SbV. After 1 d exposure, P. vittata took 23–32 times more SbIII than SbV, with all Sb being accumulated in the roots with the highest at 4,192 mg/kg. When exposed to 8 mg/L SbV, 98% of Sb existed as SbV in the roots. In comparison, when exposed to 8 mg/L SbIII, 81% of the total Sb remained as SbIII and 26% of the total Sb was effluxed out into the media. The three PV accessions had a similar ability to accumulate Sb at 12,000 mg/kg in the roots, with >99% of total Sb in the roots. Excised PV fronds translocated SbV more efficiently from the petioles to pinnae than SbIII and were unable to oxidize SbIII. Overall, P. vittata displayed efficient root uptake and efflux of SbIII with limited ability to translocate and transform in the roots. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Trees can improve air quality by capturing particles in their foliage. We determined the particle capture efficiencies of coniferous Pinus sylvestris and three broadleaved species: Betula pendula, Betula pubescens and Tilia vulgaris in a wind tunnel using NaCl particles. The importance of leaf surface structure, physiology and moderate soil drought on the particle capture efficiencies of the trees were determined. The results confirm earlier findings of more efficient particle capture by conifers compared to broadleaved plants. The particle capture efficiency of P. sylvestris (0.21%) was significantly higher than those of B. pubescens, T. vulgaris and B. pendula (0.083%, 0.047%, 0.043%, respectively). The small leaf size of P. sylvestris was the major characteristic that increased particle capture. Among the broadleaved species, low leaf wettability, low stomatal density and leaf hairiness increased particle capture. Moderate soil drought tended to increase particle capture efficiency of P. sylvestris. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To investigate the influence of fresh water on phytoplankton absorption properties, the phytoplankton absorption coefficient and pigments identified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were measured at the surface and subsurface chlorophyll a maximum (SCM) in the East China Sea (ECS), which is highly influenced by river discharge from the Changjiang during summer. For comparison, data were also collected in the Tsushima Strait (TS) at the surface and SCM. The majority of ECS surface samples taken from the low-salinity Changjiang diluted water (CDW), and even most of SCM samples taken from waters beneath the CDW, displayed significant freshwater influences. The specific absorption coefficient normalized by total chlorophyll a concentration (Tchl a), aph*(λ), of these samples was substantially higher than values derived from global regressions between aph*(λ) and the Tchl a. Using the pigment data derived from HPLC, the increase of aph*(λ) was found to be mainly caused by the phytoplankton size structure, which indicated that both surface and SCM samples in the ECS still incorporated considerable portions of picophytoplankton (cyanobacteria), even though the Tchl a was high. When water from the surface and the SCM were merged, variations in the phytoplankton size-fractions and aph*λ) vs. Tchl a that were consistent with values for the global ocean were found in the TS but not in the ECS. Data for the ECS indicated that there was no correlation between Tchl a and the size-fraction or total pigment absorption. As a consequence, aph*(λ) was poorly correlated with Tchl a and displayed large variability within a small Tchl a range. These findings suggest the need for care when considering the changing patterns of size-fractions vs. Tchl a and the relationship between aph*(λ) and Tchl a in coastal regions that are significantly influenced by fresh water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The syndrome of spatial neglect results from the combination of a number of deficits in attention, with patients demonstrating both spatially lateralized and non-lateralized impairments. Previous reports have hinted that there may be a motivational component to neglect and that modulating this might alleviate some of the debilitating symptoms. Additionally, recent work on the effects of reward on attention in healthy participants has revealed improvements across a number of paradigms. As the primary deficit in neglect has been associated with attention, this evidence for reward's effects is potentially important. However, until very recently there have been few empirical studies addressing this potential therapeutic avenue. Here we review the growing body of evidence that attentional impairments in neglect can be reduced by motivation, for example in the form of preferred music or anticipated monetary reward, and discuss the implications of this for treatments for these patients. Crucially these effects of positive motivation are not observed in all patients with neglect, suggesting that the consequences of motivation may relate to individual lesion anatomy. Given the key role of dopaminergic systems in motivational processes, we suggest that motivational stimulation might act as a surrogate for dopaminergic stimulation. In addition, we consider the relationship between clinical post stroke apathy and lack of response to motivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Effects of linuron on the sediment-rooted aquatic macrophyte Myriophyllum spicatum L. were studied in sediment-dosed test systems following a proposed guideline with extended test duration. Sediment, pore water, overlying water and macrophyte shoots were sampled weekly for chemical analyses. Linuron was stable in the sediments. Sediment and pore water concentrations were in equilibrium after 48 h. Overlying water concentrations increased over time, but did not reach equilibrium with pore water concentrations and were 100 times lower. Mass balances showed a rapid uptake of linuron by macrophyte roots. Known pathways and the compound''s properties support the conclusion that Myriophyllum takes up linuron from pore water directly through the roots. Hence, effects on macrophytes in this type of sediment toxicity test should be expressed in terms of pore water concentrations. Pore water concentration is the most relevant parameter for describing effects on macrophytes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

β-conglycinin has been identified as one of the major feed allergens. However, studies of β-conglycinin on fish are scarce. This study investigated the effects of β-conglycinin on the growth, digestive and absorptive ability, inflammatory response, oxidative status and gene expression of juvenile Jian carp (Cyprinus carpio var. Jian) in vivo and their enterocytes in vitro. The results indicated that the specific growth rate (SGR), feed intake, and feed efficiency were reduced by β-conglycinin. In addition, activities of trypsin, chymotrypsin, lipase, creatine kinase, Na+,K+-ATPase and alkaline phosphatase in the intestine showed similar tendencies. The protein content of the hepatopancreas and intestines, and the weight and length of the intestines were all reduced by β-conglycinin. β-conglycinin increased lipid and protein oxidation in the detected tissues and cells. However, β-conglycinin decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione reductase (GR) activities and glutathione (GSH) content in the intestine and enterocytes. Similar antioxidant activity in the hepatopancreas was observed, except for GST. The expression of target of rapamycin (TOR) gene was reduced by β-conglycinin. Furthermore, mRNA levels of interleukin-8 (IL-8), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) genes were increased by β-conglycinin. However, β-conglycinin increased CuZnSOD, MnSOD, CAT, and GPx1b gene expression. In conclusion, this study indicates that β-conglycinin induces inflammation and oxidation, and causes dysfunction of intestinal digestion and absorption in fish, and finally reduces fish growth. The results of this study provide some information to the mechanism of β-conglycinin-induced negative effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The tissue level uptake and spatial distribution of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in rice (Oryza sativa L.) roots and shoots under hydroponic conditions was investigated using laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). Rice plants were hydroponically exposed to positively, neutrally, and negatively charged AuNPs [AuNP1(+), AuNP2(0), AuNP3(−)] with a core diameter of 2 nm. Plants were exposed to AuNPs having 1.6 mg Au/L for 5 days or 0.14 mg Au/L for 3 months to elucidate how the surface charges of the nanoparticles affects their uptake into living plant tissues. The results demonstrate that terminal functional groups greatly affected the AuNP uptake into plant tissues. Au concentration determined by LA-ICP-MS in 5 day treated rice roots followed this order: AuNP1(+) > AuNP2(0) > AuNP3(−) but this order was reversed for rice shoots, indicating preferential translocation of AuNP3(−). Bioimages revealed distributions of mesophyll and vascular AuNP dependent on organ or AuNP concentration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Cattle besnoitiosis due to the cyst-forming coccidian parasite Besnoitia besnoiti has recently been reported in expansion in Europe since the end of the twentieth century. The B. besnoiti life cycle and many epidemiological traits are still poorly known. Hematophagous flies, including the worldwide-distributed Stomoxys calcitrans, could be mechanical vectors in the contamination of mouthparts after the puncture of cutaneous cysts or ingestion of infected blood. In this study, a protocol is presented to assess more deeply the role of S. calcitrans, reared in laboratory conditions, in parasite transmission. A preliminary trial showed that stable flies could transmit tachyzoites from bovine artificially parasite-enriched blood to B. besnoiti-free blood using glass feeders. Evidence of transmission was provided by the detection of parasite DNA with Ct values ranging between 32 and 37 in the blood recipient. In a second time, a B. besnoiti-infected heifer harboring many cysts in its dermis was used as a donor of B. besnoiti. An interruption of the blood meal taken by 300 stable flies from this heifer was performed. Immediately after the blood meal was interrupted, they were transferred to a glass feeder containing B. besnoiti-free blood from a non-infected heifer. Quantitative PCR and modified direct fluorescence antibody test (dFAT) were used to detect B. besnoiti DNA and entire parasites, respectively, in the blood recipient, the mouthparts, and the gut contents of S. calcitrans at two time intervals: 1 and 24 h after the interrupted blood meal. Parasite DNA was detected at both time intervals (1 and 24 h) in all samples (blood recipient, mouthparts, and gut contents of stable flies) while entire parasites by dFAT were only found in the abdominal compartment 1 h after the interrupted blood meal. Then, S. calcitrans were able to carry B. besnoiti from chronically infected cattle to an artificial recipient in the conditions of the protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anadromous salmonid life cycle includes both fresh water (FW) and seawater (SW) stages. The parr-smolt transformation (smoltification) pre-adapt the fish to SW while still in FW. The osmoregulatory organs change their mode of action from a role of preventing water inflow in FW, to absorb ions to replace water lost by osmosis in SW. During smoltification, the drinking rate increases, in the intestine the ion and fluid transport increases and is further elevated after SW entry. In SW, the intestine absorbs ions to create an inwardly directed water flow which is accomplished by increased Na+, K+-ATPase (NKA) activity in the basolateral membrane, driving ion absorption via ion channels and/or co-transporters. This review will aim at discussing the expression patterns of the ion transporting proteins involved in intestinal fluid absorption in the FW stage, during smoltification and after SW entry. Of equal importance for intestinal fluid absorption as the active absorption of ions is the permeability of the epithelium to ions and water. During the smoltification the increase in NKA activity and water uptake in SW is accompanied by decreased paracellular permeability suggesting a redirection of the fluid movement from a paracellular route in FW, to a transcellular route in SW. Increased transcellular fluid absorption could be achieved by incorporation of aquaporins (AQPs) into the enterocyte membranes and/or by a change in fatty acid profile of the enterocyte lipid bilayer. An increased incorporation of unsaturated fatty acids into the membrane phospholipids will increase water permeability by enhancing the fluidity of the membrane. A second aim of the present review is therefore to discuss the presence and regulation of expression of AQPs in the enterocyte membrane as well as to discuss the profile of fatty acids present in the membrane phospholipids during different stages of the salmonid lifecycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Sodium glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) is key to reabsorption of glucose in the kidney. SGLT-2 inhibitors are in clinical development for treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The mechanism may be of value also in the treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). This study investigated effects of the SGLT-2 inhibitor, empagliflozin, alone and in combination with insulin, on glucose homeostasis in an animal model of T1DM. Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats were administered a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ; 60 mg/kg). Acutely, STZ rats received two doses of insulin glargine with or without empagliflozin, and blood glucose was measured. In a subchronic study, STZ rats received empagliflozin alone, one or two insulin-releasing implants or a combination of one implant and empagliflozin over 28 days; blood glucose and HbA1c were measured. Results: In the acute setting, empagliflozin in combination with 1.5 IU insulin induced a similar glucose-lowering effect as 6 IU insulin. Both interventions were more efficacious than monotherapy with 1.5 IU insulin. In the subchronic study, 12-h blood glucose profile on day 28 in the combination group was lower than with one implant, and similar to two implants. Plasma HbA1c was improved in the combination group and in animals with two implants. Conclusions: Empagliflozin reduced blood glucose levels in a T1DM animal model. Empagliflozin combined with low-dose insulin showed comparable glucose-lowering efficacy to treatment with high-dose insulin. Our data suggest that empagliflozin is an efficacious adjunctive-to-insulin therapy with the clinical potential for the treatment of T1DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dynamic response to insulin is highly potentiated after meal ingestion, and this meal-induced insulin sensitization (MIS) in healthy subjects is dependent on cholinergic mechanisms. The main objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that the reduced response to insulin observed in moderately overweight subjects, in comparison with control lean subjects, is due to MIS impairment and not to a reduction in the direct hypoglycemic action of insulin. Both lean and overweight male subjects were recruited. Insulin sensitivity (IS) was assessed by the rapid insulin sensitivity test (RIST) performed after a 24 h fast, as well as after a standardized meal. Fasting glucose disposal was similar between lean and overweight subjects. Following the meal, glucose disposal increased more extensively in lean than overweight subjects. The insulin profiles, in both fasted and fed states, were superimposable, suggesting that the absence of a factor other than insulin is responsible for the decreased postprandial insulin sensitivity observed in overweight subjects. Our data suggest that in overweight subjects, MIS contribution is decreased, which is responsible for the postprandial impaired IS observed and is suggested to be the cause, not effect, of mild adiposity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yellow-lipped Sea Kraits (Laticauda colubrina) are tropical amphibious snakes that divide their time between land and sea. When moving between habitats, the kraits experience rapid and sometimes extreme shifts in body temperature that can have profound metabolic effects. We quantified cutaneous and pulmonary oxygen uptake in sea kraits from Hoga Island, southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia, at temperatures commonly encountered in aquatic (27.6°C) and aerial (35.2°C) habitats. Total oxygen uptake rate was 49.14 mL Kg−1 h−1 at 27.6°C and 115.27 mL Kg−1 h−1 at 35.2°C. Pulmonary and cutaneous uptake rates were 44.58 and 104.70, and 4.56 and 10.57 mL Kg−1 h−1, at 27.6 and 35.2°C, respectively. Sea kraits had a temperature coefficient (Q10) of approximately 3, suggesting that metabolic rates triple with every 10°C temperature increase. High Q10 values may minimize time on land by increasing digestion and nutrient absorption rates as well as promoting faster healing and injury recovery times. Cooler reef temperatures would decrease metabolic demand, thus increasing submergence and foraging times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

orption ability for heavy metals varies among plant species. This study is to evaluate the absorption characteristics of different plant species and planting patterns for heavy metals. Five plant species (tomato, maize, greengrocery, cabbage, and Japan clover herb) were cultivated in monoculture and in intercropping in soil contaminated with heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Cr, Cu, and Fe), to determine the absorption status. Tomato absorbs greater amounts of heavy metals (especially Cd). Furthermore, accumulation of heavy metals increased when tomato was intercropped with other plant species. Maize accumulates greater amounts of Cr, Cu, and Fe. The heavy metal concentrations were reduced when maize was intercropped. Cd and Pb accumulated more in roots of Japan Clover Herb, and the levels of all five heavy metals decreased when intercropped. Tomato intercropping is a feasible method for phytoremediation of heavy metal-contaminated soil, and maize intercropping is feasible for obtaining safe harvest which can be eaten securely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Research was conducted to determine the mechanism(s) responsible for safening winter wheat to postemergence-applied saflufenacil when mixed with 2,4-D amine or bentazon. Less than 10% of applied saflufenacil was absorbed when mixed with bentazon whereas absorption peaked at 16% at 14days after treatment when saflufenacil was applied alone. Wheat plants absorbed 2.8- to 3.5-times more saflufenacil when saflufenacil was applied with 2,4-D amine compared to saflufenacil alone. Regardless of herbicide treatment and harvest timing, <10% of absorbed saflufenacil was translocated from the treated leaf to other plant parts. Safening of saflufenacil with bentazon is likely due to reduced absorption of saflufenacil into winter wheat plants. In the presence of crop oil concentrate, saflufenacil absorption was enhanced by 2,4-D amine. The influence of bentazon and 2,4-D amine on saflufenacil absorption in wheat plants likely explains the differences in wheat response observed in previous research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]