Variability of protein level and phosphorylation status caused by biopsy protocol design in human skeletal muscle analyses

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Bergström needle biopsy is widely used to sample skeletal muscle in order to study cell signaling directly in human tissue. Consequences of the biopsy protocol design on muscle protein quantity and quality remain unclear. The aim of the present study was to assess the impact of different events surrounding biopsy protocol on the stability of the Western blot signal of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E binding protein 1 (4E-BP1), Akt, glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β), muscle RING finger protein 1 (MuRF1) and p70 S6 kinase (p70 S6K). Six healthy subjects underwent four biopsies of the <it>vastus lateralis</it>, distributed into two distinct visits spaced by 48 hrs. At visit 1, a basal biopsy in the right leg was performed in the morning (R1) followed by a second in the left leg in the afternoon (AF). At visit 2, a second basal biopsy (R2) was collected from the right leg. Low intensity mobilization (3 × 20 right leg extensions) was performed and a final biopsy (Mob) was collected using the same incision site as R2.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Akt and p70 S6K phosphorylation levels were increased by 83% when AF biopsy was compared to R1. Mob condition induced important phosphorylation of p70 S6K when compared to R2. Comparison of R1 and R2 biopsies revealed a relative stability of the signal for both total and phosphorylated proteins.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>This study highlights the importance to standardize muscle biopsy protocols in order to minimize the method-induced variation when analyzing Western blot signals.</p

A global horizon scan of the future impacts of robotics and autonomous systems on urban ecosystems

Technology is transforming societies worldwide. A major innovation is the emergence of robotics and autonomous systems (RAS), which have the potential to revolutionize cities for both people and nature. Nonetheless, the opportunities and challenges associated with RAS for urban ecosystems have yet to be considered systematically. Here, we report the findings of an online horizon scan involving 170 expert participants from 35 countries. We conclude that RAS are likely to transform land use, transport systems and human–nature interactions. The prioritized opportunities were primarily centred on the deployment of RAS for the monitoring and management of biodiversity and ecosystems. Fewer challenges were prioritized. Those that were emphasized concerns surrounding waste from unrecovered RAS, and the quality and interpretation of RAS-collected data. Although the future impacts of RAS for urban ecosystems are difficult to predict, examining potentially important developments early is essential if we are to avoid detrimental consequences but fully realize the benefits

A Continuing Ocean Observing Collaboration to Improve Hurricane and Loop Current Forecasting and Modeling in the Gulf of Mexico: Insights from the 2017 and 2018 Seasons

Shell Exploration & Production Company and collaborators have been working together since 2008 to expand and extend long-term data monitoring programs in the Gulf of Mexico. One of the main programs involves underwater glider operations in the central Gulf of Mexico. Data collected from the gliders is used to monitor the physical environment and to better understand the Loop Current System. In this paper, we summarize Loop Current dynamics and glider observations during the 2017 and 2018 seasons and discuss benefits and address challenges encountered operating an ocean observing public-private partnership

Code of practice for electrical energy storage systems

The purpose of this Code of Practice is to provide a reference to practitioners on the safe, effective and competent application of electrical energy storage systems. It also provides an understanding of the common terms and operating modes of electrical energy storage systems. Building on the IET’s technical briefing: Electrical Energy Storage: an Introduction this will also provide detailed information on the specification, design, installation, commissioning, operation and maintenance of an energy storage system. The scope covers all types of electrical and electrochemical energy storage systems; integration into low voltage power systems; industrial, commercial and domestic applications and systems aligned with existing standards, regulations and guidance