Physiological Alterations Research Articles

Acute effects of resistance exercise on the muscle architecture and tissue organization of the maximal isometrically contracted and uncontracted gastrocnemius medialis muscle

ABSTRACT This study aimed to investigate the acute effects of resistance exercise on muscle architecture and tissue organization at rest and during isometric maximum voluntary contraction (iMVC) of the gastrocnemius medialis muscle. In 16 healthy adults (25 ± 3 y), ultrasound scans were captured before (pre), immediately after (post), and 15 min after (post_15) single-leg calf raises during rest and iMVCs. Measurements included muscle thickness (MT), pennation angle (PA), and fascicle length (FL). Spatial frequency analysis (SFA) assessed tissue organization (e.g. peak spatial frequency radius (PSFR), quality factor (Q6)). MT increased significantly from pre to post (+5.7%) and post_15 (+5.6%) at rest. During iMVC, MT and FL increased significantly from pre to post (MT: +8.1%, FL: +14.9%) and post_15 (MT: +5.2%, FL: +10.5%), while PA decreased significantly from pre to post_15 (−10.2%). PSFR and Q6 decreased significantly from pre to post (−7.0-8.2%) and increased from post to post_15 (+10.3-10.6%) at rest, with no significant changes during iMVC. Resistance exercise led to altered muscle architecture for more than 15 min, while SFA parameters reverted to baseline within 15 min. Thus, SFA potentially enables early differentiation of potential physiological alterations in muscle micro-morphology.

Rapid Whole‐Organ Characterization via Quantitative Light‐Sheet Microscopy

AbstractWhole‐organ imaging and characterization at a submicron level provide abundant information on development and diseases while remaining a big challenge, especially in the context of time load. Herein, a quantitative light‐sheet microscopy platform that enabled highly time‐efficient assessments of fibrous structures within the intact cleared tissue is developed. Dual‐view inverted selective plane illumination microscopy (diSPIM), followed by improved registration and deconvolution, led to submicron isotropic imaging of mouse upper genital tract with one hundred‐fold speed‐ups than previous efforts. Further, optical metrics quantifying 3D local density and structural complexity of targets based on parallel and vectorized convolution in both spatial and frequency domains are developed. Collectively, ≈400–2000 fold increases in time efficiency counting for imaging, postprocessing, and quantitative characterization compared to the traditional method is gained. Using this platform, automatic identification of medulla and cortex within the mouse ovary at over 90% overlap with manual selection by anatomy experts is achieved. Additionally, heterogeneous distributions of immune cells in the mouse ovary and fallopian tube, offering a unique perspective for understanding the immune microenvironment are discovered. This work paves the way for future whole‐organ study, and exhibits potential with promise for offering mechanistic insights into physiological and pathological alterations of biological tissues.

Does Exposure to Summer Season at Different Stages of Intrauterine Development and Maternal Parity Affect Health and First-Lactation Milk Production of Female Offspring of Holstein Cows?

A suboptimal intrauterine environment during gestation may result in the programming of long-lasting structural and physiological alterations in the developing fetus, leading to health and production complications in adulthood. This observational study aimed to identify the impact of exposure to the summer season at different trimesters of gestation, dam parity, and their interaction on the postpartum disease incidence, first-lactation milk production, and herd lifespan of the offspring (F1 generation). Using a dataset collected from two commercial herds, the female offspring were categorized into three groups based on the trimester their dams experienced summer season during pregnancy: (1) first trimester (n = 2345), (2) second trimester (n = 3513), and (3) final trimester (n = 4988). The estimated 305-day milk production was lower in daughters (as a first-lactation cow) born to dams exposed to summer season during the first vs. third trimester. Summer season exposure during the first vs. third trimester resulted in the offspring that were less likely to remain in the herd (hazard ratio = 0.90; 95% CI = 0.84-0.95). Daughters of parous vs. nulliparous dams were more likely to experience dystocia and metritis but less likely to experience retained placenta. The risk of culling was higher in daughters of parous vs. nulliparous dams. Our preliminary findings suggest that the first trimester is a critical determinant of the female progeny's future productive performance and survivability. Dam parity was also identified as an influential factor affecting offspring health, as dystocia and metritis were more prevalent, and the culling risk was greater in daughters born to parous dams.

Temperature and ultraviolet radiation on a high mountain daphnid: When do interactions become lethal to highly adapted populations?

ABSTRACT Aquatic organisms from high mountain lakes experience extreme influences of climate and solar radiation, especially ultraviolet radiation (UVR), manifested through alterations in physiology, life history, and phenology. Zooplankton, a pivotal component of lake ecosystems, is particularly sensitive to changes in environmental conditions because of their short life cycles and diminished mobility. In the high mountains of the tropical Andes, zooplankton populations are adapted to low temperatures and high UVR because most of the Andean lakes are >4000 m a.s.l. This study focuses on Daphnia pulicaria populations originating from high-mountain Andean lakes, investigating their responses to different temperatures and UVR exposure by means of lab experiments. Key findings indicate that temperature is the most important factor impacting population variables, with high temperatures and UVR exposure leading to unfavorable population outcomes; however, physiological variables (cell viability and pigmentation, measured as melanin) are similarly influenced by temperature and UVR exposure. Pigmentation increases with temperature and is accentuated by solar radiation, indicating an adaptive response to mitigate UVR damage. Conversely, cellular viability declines with elevated temperatures and UVR exposure, showing that higher temperatures may offset the protective effects of pigmentation. Overall, these findings underscore the vulnerability of daphnid populations in high-mountain Andean systems to anticipated climate change impacts, with potential consequences for ecological dynamics in these critical ecosystems. More importantly, they show the importance of studying temperature and UVR (and probably other environmental conditions) as interacting variables because the results will dramatically differ if each factor is considered separately.

Physiological, biochemical, and transcriptomic alterations in Castor (Ricinus communis L.) under polyethylene glycol-induced oxidative stress

BackgroundCastor is an important industrial raw material. Drought-induced oxidative stress leads to slow growth and decreased yields in castor. However, the mechanisms of drought-induced oxidative stress in castor remain unclear. Therefore, in this study, physiological, biochemical, and RNA-seq analyses were conducted on the roots of castor plants under PEG-6000 stress for 3 d and 7 d followed by 4 d of hydration.ResultsThe photosynthetic rate of castor leaves was inhibited under PEG-6000 stress for 3 and 7 d. Biochemical analysis of castor roots stressed for 3 d and 7 d, and rehydrated for 4 d revealed that the activities of APX and CAT were highest after only 3 d of stress, whereas the activities of POD, GR, and SOD peaked after 7 d of stress. RNA-seq analysis revealed 2926, 1507, and 111 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the roots of castor plants under PEG-6000 stress for 3 d and 7 d and after 4 d of rehydration, respectively. GO analysis of the DEGs indicated significant enrichment in antioxidant activity. Furthermore, KEGG enrichment analysis of the DEGs revealed significantly enriched metabolic pathways, including glutathione metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, and plant hormone signal transduction. WGCNA identified the core genes PP2C39 and GA2ox4 in the navajowhite1 module, which was upregulated under PEG-6000 stress. On the basis of these results, we propose a model for the response to drought-induced oxidative stress in castor.ConclusionsThis study provides valuable antioxidant gene resources, deepening our understanding of antioxidant regulation and paving the way for further molecular breeding of castor plants.

Cardiac arrest in pregnancy with successful stabilisation and delivery on veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: a case report

Abstract Background Cardiac arrest in pregnancy is rare. Clinicians need to adapt management to the altered anatomy and physiology of pregnancy and the wellbeing of two patients (mother and fetus) may come into consideration. The medical literature has limited reports on outcomes following extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in pregnancy. Case summary We report the evaluation, management and outcome of a woman with cardiac arrest and severe left ventricle dysfunction (LV) in mid-trimester of pregnancy. The previously well woman had tolerated two prior term pregnancies without complication. At 25 weeks of gestation she presented to hospital with breathlessness and vomiting after a pre-syncopal episode at home. She then had in-hospital cardiac arrest, managed initially with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The LV was dilated, thin-walled and severely impaired (LV ejection fraction 14%) and there was a secundum atrial septal defect (ASD). She was supported with veno-arterial ECMO. Planned birth occurred five days post-arrest for maternal indication. Coronary angiography demonstrated 99% proximal left anterior descending artery stenosis and aneurysm, raising the possibility of previous subclinical Kawasaki disease. She underwent surgical revascularisation and ASD closure. Both mother and infant made a good recovery. Discussion We report a case of cardiac arrest in pregnancy as first presentation of severe LV dysfunction. The case highlights the role of ECMO for cardiac arrest in pregnancy and outlines specific interventions and management concepts in this setting.

Important practical aspects in the management of patients with shot bowel syndrome and intestinal failure

Short bowel syndrome is a gastrointestinal disorder resulting from massive resection of the small intestine. The most common causes of resection are acute mesenteric ischemia, Crohn’s disease, abdominal trauma, adhesive intestinal obstruction, intestinal malignancies, and radiation enteritis. Short bowel syndrome with intestinal failure is characterized by severe malabsorption-m aldigestion accompanied by abdominal pain, diarrhea, dehydration, and progression of protein-energy malnutrition. Many patients with SBS develop long-term clinical complications over time due to altered bowel anatomy and physiology or various therapeutic interventions such as parenteral nutrition and central venous catheterization. This review focuses on the most important aspects of diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of several complications that can occur in this patient population, including macronutrient and micronutrient imbalances, diarrhea, fluid and electrolyte imbalances, metabolic bone disease, biliary disorders, bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine, and complications related to venous access. The main therapeutic strategies for SBS with intestinal failure are: special diet, enteral nutritional support with semi-elemental mixtures, parenteral nutrition, oral rehydration, antimicrobal and antidiarrheal drugs, enzymes. Administration of glucagon-like peptide 2 analog, teduglutide, is clinically effective in reducing dependence on parenteral nutrition and improving quality of life. Management of patients with SBS with intestinal failure is a complex long-term process which requires dynamic clinical and laboratory monitoring.

Epigenetic and 3D genome reprogramming during the aging of human hippocampus.

Age-related cognitive decline is associated with altered physiology of the hippocampus. While changes in gene expression have been observed in aging brain, the regulatory mechanisms underlying these changes remain underexplored. We generated single-nucleus gene expression, chromatin accessibility, DNA methylation, and 3D genome data from 40 human hippocampal tissues spanning adult lifespan. We observed a striking loss of astrocytes, OPC, and endothelial cells during aging, including astrocytes that play a role in regulating synapses. Microglia undergo a dramatic switch from a homeostatic state to a primed inflammatory state through DNA methylome and 3D genome reprogramming. Aged cells experience erosion of their 3D genome architecture. Our study identifies age-associated changes in cell types/states and gene regulatory features that provide insight into cognitive decline during human aging.

From microbes to mind: germ-free models in neuropsychiatric research.

The gut-microbiota-brain axis refers to the bidirectional communication system between the gut, its microbial community, and the brain. This interaction involves a complex interplay of neural pathways, chemical transmitters, and immunological mechanisms. Germ-free animal models have been extensively employed to investigate gut-microbiota-brain interactions, significantly contributing to our current understanding of the role of intestinal microbes in brain function. However, despite the many benefits, this absence of microbiota is not futile. Germ-free animals present physiological and neurodevelopmental alterations that can persist even after reconstitution with normal microbiota. Therefore, the main goal of this minireview is to discuss how some of the inherent limitations of this model can interfere with the conclusion obtained when using these animals to study the complex nature of neuropsychiatric disorders. Furthermore, we examine the inclusion and use of antibiotic-based treatments as an alternative in the research of gut-brain interactions.

A pathogenic mutation in the ALS/FTD gene VCP induces mitochondrial hypermetabolism by modulating the permeability transition pore

Valosin-containing protein (VCP) is a ubiquitously expressed type II AAA+ ATPase protein, implicated in both amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). This study aimed to explore the impact of the disease-causing VCPR191Q/wt mutation on mitochondrial function using a CRISPR/Cas9-engineered neuroblastoma cell line. Mitochondria in these cells are enlarged, with a depolarized mitochondrial membrane potential associated with increased respiration and electron transport chain activity. Our results indicate that mitochondrial hypermetabolism could be caused, at least partially, by increased calcium-induced opening of the permeability transition pore (mPTP), leading to mild mitochondrial uncoupling. In conclusion, our findings reveal a central role of the ALS/FTD gene VCP in maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis and suggest a model of pathogenesis based on progressive alterations in mPTP physiology and mitochondrial energetics.

Training Protocol for Nellore Cattle in Respirometry Flow Trials Using Non-Ventilated Facial Mask.

Training is instrumental in identifying and selecting cattle that exhibit greater cooperation with experimental conditions required in flow respirometry assays, like restraint and the use of a valved facial mask. In our study, a tailored training protocol for Nellore cattle facilitated their participation in flow respirometry assays with a valved facial mask. Over 127 days, 30 entire Nellore males, weighing 450 ± 25 kg and averaging 32 ± 2 months, underwent training from May to September 2022. The regimen involved gradually altering the animals' environment and providing positive reinforcement, divided into three phases. Physiological and behavioral responses to containment routines and facial mask use were meticulously assessed. Principal component analyses revealed dissimilarity patterns among the animals. Animals classified as less reactive showed increased acceptance of handling, reduced reactions to weighing, and greater tolerance of the facial mask. In the final phase, the least reactive animals tolerated wearing a valved mask for extended periods without notable changes in respiratory rate. The training protocol effectively identified and selected Nellore cattle displaying enhanced cooperation with restraint and mask use during flow respirometry assays, without apparent behavioral or physiological alterations.

Rising global temperatures and its impact on sleep behavior of male redheaded bunting (Emberiza bruniceps).

Anthropogenic global warming is one of the most pervasive threats to nature and biodiversity. The magnitude with which earths' temperature is rising is affecting every lifeform uniquely; however, the studies highlighting the impacts of global warming on avian sleep are scarce. To this end, the present study was aimed at analyzing the impact of global warming on sleep behavior of a nocturnal migrant, Emberiza bruniceps. For this purpose, the birds were divided into two groups (N = 15 each), subjected to high (35 ± 1°C) and low (19 ± 1°C) temperature schedule with concurrent exposure to 8L:16D (short day; SD) photoperiod followed by 13L:11D (long day; LD). The experiment continued till 7 cycles of zugunruhe (LD) in birds. The results reveal significant impact of temperature treatment on initiation and quality of zugunruhe. Temporal distribution of activity and rest varied according to the temperature provided. Focusing on rest and specifically on sleep of birds, high ambient temperatures resulted in greater sleep fragmentation (evident by increased awakenings during night), whereas low temperature created a sleep conducive environment (evident by abundance of back sleep). Besides postural differences, high temperature resulted in reduced sleep duration, sleep onset latency and circulating plasma melatonin levels in comparison with low temperature suggesting the negative impact of high temperature on different sleep attributes. Not only sleep, seasonal physiology of birds such as hyperphagia, gain in body mass, and fat stores showed significant reduction in high temperature condition. Besides behavioral and physiological alterations, high ambient temperature led to elevated expression of temperature sensitive (trpv4, trpm8, hspa8, and hsp70) genes. Enhanced expression of chrm3 (responsible for wakefulness) also affirms sleep fragmentation in response to high temperature. Thus, the study highlights the negative impact of high temperature on birds' sleep behavior and seasonal physiology.

6367 Growth gone Awry: A Rare Case of Acromegaly in a 16-Year-Old Female with Panhypopituitarism Secondary to Craniopharyngioma on Low Doses of Growth Hormone with Low IGF-1 levels

Abstract Disclosure: L.M. Ayala Castro: None. J. Ye Tay: None. A. Diaz: None. This report highlights a rare case of a 16-year-old female with panhypopituitarism due to craniopharyngioma, where GH replacement therapy triggered acromegaly features despite having low IGF-1 levels. Background: Craniopharyngiomas are the most common tumors causing acquired pituitary deficiencies in children. Various mechanisms contribute to acromegaly, and hypersensitivity to hormonal treatment in this benign tumor emerges as a plausible avenue for investigation. Case Presentation: A 16-year-old female diagnosed with craniopharyngioma at age 5 developed secondary panhypopituitarism. Baseline hormonal profiles indicated markedly reduced levels of IGF-1 and insulin growth factor–binding protein 3 (IGF-BP3). Despite the established condition, GH treatment was initiated at age 8 for potential growth and development benefits. Before commencing GH therapy, a bone age assessment revealed normal skeletal development. However, GH replacement therapy led to an unexpectedly robust response, resulting in physical changes consistent with acromegaly. Paradoxically, laboratory evaluations showed low IGF-1 levels. Imaging studies, including pituitary MRI, ruled out new abnormalities or tumors. As the patient approached peak adult height at 16, having been on adult GH therapy since age 13, a decision was made to discontinue GH replacement therapy and address acromegaly symptoms. Frequent follow-up visits were planned to assess growth velocity, monitor hormonal levels, and evaluate potential adverse effects. Discussion: This case demonstrates an unusual sensitivity to exogenous GH, resulting in an exaggerated response contrary to expected IGF-1 elevation. Atypical IGF-1 levels may suggest alterations in liver physiology, GH receptor signaling pathways (e.g., Laron Syndrome), or downstream defects in IGF-1 synthesis. Further research is crucial to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Conclusion: Only 3 cases of acromegaly as a side effect of GH replacement therapy have been reported in the literature. We report a further case that underscores the complexity of managing hormonal imbalances, especially in unique patient populations with panhypopituitarism secondary to craniopharyngioma. The unexpected response to GH treatment emphasizes the need for individualized approaches and vigilant monitoring.

Bioaccumulation and toxicological effects of dietborne arsenic exposure on the apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata)

An eight-compartment physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model was used to simulate the bioaccumulation and distribution of arsenic (As) within the apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata) following the ingestion of As-contaminated lettuce. The bioaccumulation results revealed that the shell contained the majority (67.21 %) of the total As content, with the liver and the head-foot containing approximately 11.14 % and 10.45 % of the total As content in the snail, respectively. Modeling quantified the process of intestine-stomach absorption of dietborne As and revealed its crucial role in the subsequent distribution of As within the body. The liver is the primary metabolic site, whereas the shell is the primary storage site. Exposure to dietborne As leads to pronounced physiological and biochemical alterations in apple snails. Total protein levels decreased by 24.06 %, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity decreased by 24.43 %, malondialdehyde (MDA) content increased by 47.51 %, glutathione (GSH) content decreased by 46.99 %, and glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity decreased by 42.22 %. Furthermore, the subcellular-level results indicated that dietborne As exposure altered subcellular distribution in the liver. Additionally, dietborne As exposure significantly reduced the abundance of gut microbiota in apple snails.

Etiology, Epidemiology And Methods Of Preventing Sudden Death Of Cardiac Origin In Sports

Introduction: Numerous epidemiological studies have consistently shown an association between moderate aerobic exercise and decreased risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) and death, and even a small amount of exercise provides a significant reduction in risk compared to a sedentary lifestyle Objective: The aim of this study was to identify the etiology, epidemiology and prevention of sudden cardiac death in sports. Methodology: The methodology used was a literature review. The research was carried out by means of an electronic search for scientific articles published on the Scielo (Scientific Electronic Library Online) and Lilacs (Latin American Health Sciences Literature) and Pubmed websites. The health terminologies consulted in the Health Sciences descriptors (DeCS/BIREME) were used; the etiology, epidemiology and ways of preventing sudden cardiac death in sports practices. Discussion: An important distinction must be made between hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and “athlete's heart syndrome”. In this syndrome, intense physical training leads to various morphological and physiological alterations, especially left ventricular hypertrophy. Conclusion: The complete health safety of athletes consists of periodic pre-participation clinical assessment as well as emergency measures, mainly in competition venues, consisting of the availability of health professionals

Effects of sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass on pharmacokinetics of lamotrigine and valproate: A cohort study

BackgroundBariatric surgeries may affect the pharmacokinetics of medications through alterations of the gastrointestinal physiology. Pharmacokinetic changes of first-line antiseizure medications such as lamotrigine and valproate following bariatric treatment have received little research attention so far. MethodsIn our prospective case study we included lamotrigine- or valproate-treated patients undergoing bariatric surgery at hospitals in Central Norway. Lamotrigine and valproate concentrations were assessed using serial blood samples over a dose interval, before and one, six and twelve months following surgery. Primary outcomes included changes in area under the time-concentration curve (AUC) with secondary outcomes comprising full pharmacokinetic profiling. ResultsSix lamotrigine-treated obese patients undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) (n = 3) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) (n = 3), as well as two valproate-treated patients (one undergoing RYGB and one SG) were included. Largest changes for dose-adjusted AUC values after surgery were seen in RYGB-treated patients on lamotrigine (average increases of 38 % one month and 32 % 12 months postoperatively). In the patients on valproate, AUC values were decreased by 22 % after 6 months and by 30 % after 12 months. The interindividual variation was high. Formal statistical testing was not done due to few cases. ConclusionPostoperative pharmacokinetic changes for lamotrigine and valproate were modest, but for lamotrigine changes may be larger in patients undergoing RYGB than in those undergoing SG. Given the substantial interindividual variation, therapeutic drug monitoring should be used to capture pharmacokinetic changes and guide dose adjustments after bariatric surgery.

NDRG1 regulates iron metabolism and inhibits pathological cardiac hypertrophy

BackgroundCardiac pathological hypertrophy, a pathological physiological alteration in many cardiovascular diseases, can progress to heart failure. The cellular biology underlying myocardial hypertrophy remains to be fully elucidated. While NDRG1 has been reported to participate in cellular proliferation, differentiation, and cellular stress responses, its role in cardiac diseases remains unexplored. Here, we investigated the role of NDRG1 in pathological hypertrophy. MethodCardiomyocyte-specific-NDRG1 knockout (KO) transgenic mice and NDRG1-AAV9 were used in mice. Angiotensin II (AngII) stimulation were applied to induce hypertrophy. Histological, molecular, and RNA-sequencing analyses were performed, and ferroptosis markers and iron levels were studied. We used co-IP and application of iron chelator to further studied the mechanisms of NDRG1 in cardiac hypertrophy. ResultsWe found that NDRG1 expression is decreased in pathological hypertrophy induced by AngII stimulation. Conditional knockout of NDRG1 in mouse cardiomyocytes led to progressive cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. Cardiomyocyte-specific overexpression of NDRG1 via AAV9 significantly reversed AngII-induced ventricular hypertrophy and fibrosis. Mechanistically, NDRG1-deficient cardiomyocytes exhibited iron overload and increased ferroptosis, accompanied by elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation. Subsequently, we confirmed the involvement of NDRG1 in regulating ferroptosis and iron metabolism in myocardial cells. Finally, we identified an interaction between NDRG1 and transferrin in cells. The iron chelator Dp44mT effectively reduced myocardial iron overload and ventricular remodeling induced by NDRG1 deficiency. ConclusionThese findings highlight NDRG1's critical role in iron metabolism and ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes, suggesting that NDRG1 or iron metabolism may serve as therapeutic targets for cardiac hypertrophy.

The Physiological and Performance Effects of Actovegin during Maximal Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

Evidence regarding the performance-related effects of Actovegin is limited, despite legislated restrictions being in place for this supplement within sport settings. Our study examined the effects of Actovegin on physiological responses and performance during maximal cardiopulmonary exercise in collegiate athletes. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled experimental design was adopted. Moderately trained collegiate athletes from various sports were randomly allocated to placebo (n = 8) or Actovegin (n = 8) groups. All athletes consumed three capsules across each day for seven days of loading. Athletes underwent two separate cardiopulmonary exercise tests one week apart. Separate 2 × 2 mixed ANOVAs and effect sizes (ηp2) were used to assess for between- and within-group differences. A significant time * group effect (p = 0.036, ηp2 = 0.278) was observed in systolic blood pressure. Significant main effects were only observed for time in several variables, with increases in peak oxygen uptake (VO2) (p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.893), peak minute ventilation (p = 0.004, ηp2 = 0.456), ventilatory equivalents for carbon dioxide (p = 0.002, ηp2 = 0.517), oxygen pulse (p = 0.006, ηp2 = 0.434), VO2 at first ventilatory threshold (p = 0.002, ηp2 = 0.520), velocity at second ventilatory threshold (p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.997), VO2 at second ventilatory threshold (p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.628), and peak velocity (p = 0.010, ηp2 = 0.386), and a decrease in respiratory exchange ratio (p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.695). Our findings suggest that although physiological and performance alterations were evident with Actovegin supplementation during cardiopulmonary exercise, no further benefits beyond those obtained with a placebo were attained.

Chronic thermal stress on Octopus maya embryos down-regulates epigenome-related genes and those involved in the nervous system development and morphogenesis

Red Octopus maya is strongly influenced by temperature. Recent studies have reported negative reproduction effects on males and females when exposed to temperatures higher than 27 °C. Embryos under thermal stress show morphological and physiological alterations; similar phenotypes have been reported in embryos from stressed females, evidencing transgenerational consequences. Transcriptomic profiles were characterized along embryo development during normal-under thermal stress and epigenetic alterations through DNA methylation and damage quantification. Total RNA in organogenesis, activation, and growth stages in control and thermal stress were sequenced with Illumina RNA-Seq. Similarly, total DNA was used for DNA methylation and damage quantification between temperatures and embryo stages. Differential gene expression analyses showed that embryos express genes associated with oxygen transport, morphogenesis, nervous system, neuroendocrine cell differentiation, spermatogenesis, and male sex differentiation. Conversely, embryos turn off genes involved mainly in nervous system development, morphogenesis, and gene expression regulation when exposed to thermal stress – consistent with O. maya embryo phenotypes showing abnormal arms, eyes, and body development. No significant differences were observed in quantifying DNA methylation between temperatures but they were for DNA damage quantification. Epigenetic alterations are hypothesized to occur since several genes found downregulated belong to the epigenetic machinery but at histone tail level.

Physiological alterations and genotoxic damage under combined aluminum and cadmium treatments in Bryophyllum daigremontianum clones.

Cadmium (Cd) is one of the most important stress factors in plants, with its high mobility in soils, ease of uptake by plants and toxicity at low concentrations. Aluminum (Al) is another phytotoxic metal, the accumulation of which is a crucial agricultural complication for plants, especially in acidic soils. In this study, Bryophyllum daigremontianum clone plantlets were obtained from bulbiferous spurs of a mother plant and separated into four different groups and watered with Hoagland solution and mixtures containing 0, 50, 100, and 200 µM of AlCl3 and CdCl2 each for 75 days. Control groups were maintained under the same conditions without Al and Cd treatment. To simulate acidic soil conditions typical of environments where Al toxicity is prevalent, the soil pH was adjusted to 4.5 by spraying the sulphuric acid (0.2%) with 2-day intervals after each irrigation day. After harvesting, growth parameters such as shoot length and thickness, root, shoot and leaf fresh and dry weights were measured, along with physiological parameters like mineral nutrient status, total protein, and photosynthetic pigment concentrations (chlorophyll a, b, a/b, total chlorophyll, and carotenoid) in both control and experimental groups of B. daigremontianum clones. In response to Al and Cd applications, the plant height, shoot thickness and carotenoid levels were declined, whereas the increments were found in leaf/shoot/root fresh weight, root dry weight, and total protein content. Moreover, differences in genomic alterations were investigated using 21 ISSR and 19 RAPD markers, which both have been used extensively as genetic markers to specify phylogenetic relationships among different cultivars as well as stress-dependent genetic alterations. RAPD primers were used due to their arbitrary sequences and the unknown genome sequence of the plant material used. In contrast, ISSR primers were preferred for a genome-wide genotoxic effect scan via non-arbitrary and more common genetic markers. Distinct types of band polymorphisms detected via RAPD and ISSR markers include band loss, and new band formation under a combination of Al and Cd stress. 17 ISSR and 14 RAPD primers generated clear electrophoretic bands. The study revealed that combined application of Al and Cd affect B. daigremontianum clones in terms of growth, physiology and genotoxicity related to the increasing concentrations.