Plasma Glucose Concentrations Research Articles

Dissociation between liver fat content and fasting metabolic markers of selective hepatic insulin resistance in humans.

Fasting hyperglycemia and hypertriglyceridemia are characteristic of insulin resistance (IR) and rodent work has suggested this may be due to selective hepatic IR, defined by increased hepatic gluconeogenesis and de novo lipogenesis (DNL), but this has not been shown in humans. Cross-sectional study in men and women across a range of adiposity. Medication-free participants (n = 177) were classified as normoinsulinemic (NI) or hyperinsulinemic (HI) and as having low (LF) or high (HF) liver fat content measured by magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Fractional gluconeogenesis (frGNG) and hepatic DNL were measured using stable isotope tracer methodology following an overnight fast. Although HI and HF groups had higher fasting plasma glucose and triglyceride concentrations when compared to NI and LF groups respectively, there was no difference in frGNG. However, HF participants tended to have lower frGNG than LF participants. HI participants had higher DNL compared to NI participants but there was no difference observed between liver fat groups. Taken together, we found no metabolic signature of selective hepatic IR in fasting humans. DNL may contribute to hypertriglyceridemia in individuals with HI but not those with HF. Glycogenolysis and systemic glucose clearance may have a larger contribution to fasting hyperglycemia than gluconeogenesis, especially in those with HF, and these pathways should be considered for therapeutic targeting.

The measurement of plasma fructosamine as a diagnostic tool to improve the interpretation of plasma glucose and proteins in alpacas (Vicugna pacos).

This study assesses the use of fructosamine as a diagnostic tool for hyperglycemia in alpacas in view of their sensitivity to stress and susceptibility to conditions like lipid mobilization syndrome. Plasma fructosamine, like in diagnosing diabetes in cats and dogs, can reveal long-term blood glucose trends, differentiating stress-induced spikes from persistent diabetic hyperglycemia. In 125 alpacas presented as patients of a veterinary clinic, plasma glucose and fructosamine concentrations were compared for correlations with findings of the general clinical examination, laboratory parameters, demographic data, and a behavioral stress assessment processed by using principal component analysis. Hyperglycemia was observed on admission of 71% (89/125) of the animals. This was significantly associated with a higher concentration of serum cortisol and a higher behavioral stress scoring. Fructosamine above the reference limit was detected in only 15% (13/89) of the hyperglycemic individuals. In addition to a positive correlation of fructosamine to glucose concentration, positive relationships with different plasma proteins were detected. A relationship to stress parameters was not observed. These findings underscore stress as a significant trigger for hyperglycemia in alpacas and suggest fructosamine as a valuable parameter for distinguishing between stress-induced and diabetic hyperglycemia. However, the dependence of fructosamine formation on total plasma protein concentration should be considered to avoid misinterpretation.

Short-term intermittent fasting and energy restriction do not impair rates of muscle protein synthesis: A randomised, controlled dietary intervention

BackgroundIntermittent fasting (IF) is an effective energy restricted dietary strategy to reduce body and fat mass and improve metabolic health in individuals with either an overweight or obese status. However, dietary energy restriction may impair muscle protein synthesis (MPS) resulting in a concomitant decline in lean body mass. Due to periods of prolonged fasting combined with irregular meal intake, we hypothesised that IF would reduce rates of MPS compared to an energy balanced diet with regular meal patterns. AimsWe assessed the impact of a short-term (ten days) alternate day fasting or a continuous energy restricted diet to a control diet on integrated rates of skeletal MPS in middle-aged males with overweight or obesity. MethodsTwenty-seven middle-aged males with overweight or obesity (age: 44.6±5.4 y; BMI: 30.3±2.6 kg/m2) consumed a three-day lead-in diet, followed by a ten-day controlled dietary intervention matched for protein intake, as alternate day fasting (ADF: 62.5 energy (En)%, days of 25 En% alternated with days of 100 En% food ingestion), continuous energy restriction (CER: 62.5 En%), or an energy balanced, control diet (CON: 100 En%). Deuterated water (D2O) methodology with saliva, blood, and skeletal muscle sampling were used to assess integrated rates of MPS over the ten-day intervention period. Secondary measures included fasting plasma glucose, insulin, and gastrointestinal hormone concentrations, continuous glucose monitoring, and assessment of body composition. ResultsThere were no differences in daily rates of MPS between groups (ADF: 1.18±0.13, CER: 1.13±0.16, and CON: 1.18±0.18%/day, P>0.05). The reductions in body mass were greater in ADF and CER compared to CON (P<0.001). Lean and fat mass were decreased by a similar magnitude across groups (main time effect, P<0.001; main group effect, P>0.05). Fasting plasma leptin concentrations decreased in ADF and CER (P<0.001), with no differences in fasting plasma glucose or insulin concentrations between groups. ConclusionShort-term alternate day fasting does not lower rates of MPS compared to continuous energy restriction or an energy balanced, control diet with matched protein intake. The prolonged effects of IF and periods of irregular energy and protein intake patterns on muscle mass maintenance remain to be investigated. This trial was registered under Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (https://www.anzctr.org.au), identifier no. ACTRN12619000757112.

A Single Sauna Session Does Not Improve Postprandial Blood Glucose Handling in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Over, Randomized, Controlled Trial.

Passive heat treatment has been suggested to improve glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Previous studies have focused predominantly on hot water immersion and traditional sauna bathing, as opposed to the more novel method of infrared-based sauna bathing. Here, the impact of a single infrared sauna session on post-prandial glycemic control was assessed in older individuals with T2DM. In this randomized controlled crossover trial, 12 participants with T2DM (male/female: 10/2, age: 69±7 y, BMI: 27.5±2.9 kg/m2) rested in an infrared sauna twice: once in a heated (60°C) and once in a thermoneutral (21°C) condition for 40 min, immediately followed by a 2-h oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Venous blood samples were obtained to assess plasma glucose and insulin concentrations and to determine the whole-body composite insulin sensitivity index. Body core and leg skin temperature were higher following the heated condition compared to the thermoneutral condition (38.0±0.3 vs. 36.6±0.2°C and 39.4±0.8 vs. 31.3±0.8°C, respectively; P<0.001 for both). The incremental area under the curve (iAUC) of plasma glucose concentrations during the OGTT was higher after the heated condition compared to the thermoneutral condition (17.7±3.1 vs. 14.8±2.8 mmol/L/120 min; P<0.001). No differences were observed in plasma insulin concentrations (heated: 380±194 vs. thermoneutral: 376±210 pmol/L/120 min; P=0.93) or whole-body composite insulin sensitivity indexes (4.5±2.8 vs. 4.5±2.1; P=0.67). A single infrared sauna session does not improve postprandial blood glucose handling in individuals with T2DM. Future studies should assess the effect of more prolonged application of infrared sauna bathing on daily glycemic control.

Effects of Supplementing Different Quantities of Moringa stenopetala Leaves on Plasma Metabolite and Acylcarnitine Profile, Body Condition Score and Milk Yield Performance in Zebu (Bos indicus) Cattle.

The formulation of multi-nutrient blocks based on low-cost and locally available browse feed resources can be a valid feeding strategy in Sub-Saharan Africa, where inadequate feed supply, both in quality and quantity, is a major constraint. We evaluated the four different inclusion percentages (M-0%, M-25%, M-35% and M-45%) of Moringa stenopetala leaf powder to multi-nutrient blocks on their change on blood metabolite of dairy cows under practical, ranging conditions. Multi-nutrient blocks with four inclusion rates of M. stenopetala leaves were applied as complementary feed for free ranging dairy cows. The study was performed on 24 free ranging dairy cows reared around Arba Minch town in the Southern Ethiopian Rift Valley. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein of dairy cows both before and after supplementation. Plasma glucose, beta hydroxy butyrate (BHB), urea, creatinine, triglycerides and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) concentration was quantified spectrophotometrically. Dried serum spots were subject to quantitative electrospray tandem mass spectrometry to estimate changes in nutrient metabolism based on selected carnitines. Based on these measurements, the milk yield and body condition score were increased during the period of multi-nutrient block supplementation. During the supplementation period, the cows got higher plasma glucose, triglyceride and urea concentrations and lower concentrations of BHB, NEFA and creatinine. From the metabolite profiles, a more efficient nutrient use could be concluded. Although no clear dose-response relationship was observed, the highest inclusion of the M. stenopetala leaves in the multi-nutrient blocks gave the best performance. This outcome supports the idea of implementing M. stenopetala based multi-nutrient blocks on tropical smallholder farms that are not easily accessible to conventional extension services.

22 Effects of trace mineral source and chromium propionate supplementation on rumen fermentation, growth performance, and carcass characteristics in finishing beef steers

Abstract Crossbred beef steers [n = 400; body weight (BW) = 370 ± 8 kg] were used to evaluate the effects of trace mineral (TM) source and chromium propionate (Cr) on rumen fermentation characteristics, plasma glucose and mineral concentrations, performance, and carcass characteristics in feedlot steers fed a steam-flaked corn-based finishing diet. Steers were blocked by initial BW and randomly assigned within block to 1 of 4 treatments (10 steers/pen) with 10 pens per treatment. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design with a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Factors included: 1) TM source [sulfate or hydroxychloride (IntelliBond] Cu, Mn, and Zn TM supplemented at 18, 40, and 90 mg/kg DM, respectively) and 2) with or without supplemental Cr (KemTRACE) at 0.0 or 0.25 mg/kg DM. Steers were individually weighed on d -1 and 0 and every 28 d throughout the experiment. Jugular blood samples and rumen contents were collected from 10 steers per treatment on d 28 and 84 of the experiment for plasma glucose and TM concentration and volatile fatty acid analysis, respectively. On d 154 of the experiment, steers were harvested at a commercial abattoir and carcass data was collected. Data were analyzed on a pen mean basis for a randomized complete block design using PROC MIXED of SAS. There was no TM source by Cr supplementation interactions for any of the response variables measured, therefore only main effects are reported. Overall ADG (P = 0.03) and gain:feed (P = 0.02) were greater in steers receiving supplemental Cr when compared with steers not supplemented with Cr. Hot carcass weight (P = 0.04), dressing percentage (P = 0.01), longissimus muscle area (P = 0.03), and USDA yield grades (P = 0.04) were greater in steers receiving hydroxychloride TM compared with steers receiving sulfate TM. Steers supplemented with Cr had a greater dressing percentage (P = 0.01) and longissimus muscle area (P = 0.04) compared with steers not supplemented with Cr. On d 28 of the experiment, ruminal acetate concentrations were lesser (P = 0.01) and ruminal propionate concentrations tended to be greater (P = 0.12) in steers receiving hydroxychloride TM compared with steers receiving sulfate TM. Steers supplemented with Cr had greater ruminal acetate concentrations (P = 0.04) and plasma glucose concentrations (P = 0.05) on d 28 of the experiment when compared with non-supplemented controls. These data indicate the Cr supplementation and TM source can influence feedlot steer performance, carcass characteristics, and rumen fermentation characteristics.

Sexual dimorphism in physiological responses of turbot (Scophthalmus maximus L) under acute hypoxia and reoxygenation

Dissolved oxygen (DO) is a crucial factor throughout fish life cycle. In this study, the hematology, hepatic antioxidant levels, histomorphology of the liver and gill were determined in both female and male turbot under acute hypoxia to evaluated the underlying mechanisms and potential sexual dimorphism difference. Results showed that acute hypoxia stress treatment for 3 h significantly increased plasma cortisol, glucose, hemoglobin (HGB), cholesterol (CHO), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) contents, red blood cell count (RBC) number, hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT), alanine-aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate-aminotransferase (AST) activity in both male and female turbot. Male obtained higher plasma CHO, TG and LDL contents, GSH-Px and SOD activity than female under hypoxia. Meanwhile, hypoxia increased gill respiratory frequency, secondary lamellar length, secondary lamellar width, perimeter, lamellar surface area and gill surface area and decreased interlamellar distance. Acute hypoxia induced clubbing, hyperplasia, hypertrophy of gill filaments and hepatic vacuolization in both male and female turbot. The aforementioned parameters were recovered to normal levels after reoxygenation for 12 h. In conclusion, sex dimorphism difference of turbot hematological (RBC, HGB) and biochemical (glucose, CAT, GSH-Px, MDA) parameters were observed under hypoxia stress, while male demonstrated more hypoxia tolerance than female. These results help understand turbot hypoxia tolerance mechanisms and provide more data for management in captivity.

Analytical Performance of the FreeStyle Libre 2 Glucose Sensor in Healthy Male Adults.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) not only can be used for glycemic control in chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes), but is increasingly being utilized by individuals and athletes to monitor fluctuations in training and everyday life. However, it is not clear how accurately CGM reflects plasma glucose concentration in a healthy population in the absence of chronic diseases. In an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) with forty-four healthy male subjects (25.5 ± 4.5 years), the interstitial fluid glucose (ISFG) concentration obtained by a CGM sensor was compared against finger-prick capillary plasma glucose (CPG) concentration at fasting baseline (T0) and 30 (T30), 60 (T60), 90 (T90), and 120 (T120) min post OGTT to investigate differences in measurement accuracy. The overall mean absolute relative difference (MARD) was 12.9% (95%-CI: 11.8-14.0%). Approximately 100% of the ISFG values were within zones A and B in the Consensus Error Grid, indicating clinical accuracy. A paired t-test revealed statistically significant differences between CPG and ISFG at all time points (T0: 97.3 mg/dL vs. 89.7 mg/dL, T30: 159.9 mg/dL vs. 144.3 mg/dL, T60: 134.8 mg/dL vs. 126.2 mg/dL, T90: 113.7 mg/dL vs. 99.3 mg/dL, and T120: 91.8 mg/dL vs. 82.6 mg/dL; p < 0.001) with medium to large effect sizes (d = 0.57-1.02) and with ISFG systematically under-reporting the reference system CPG. CGM sensors provide a convenient and reliable method for monitoring blood glucose in the everyday lives of healthy adults. Nonetheless, their use in clinical settings wherein implications are drawn from CGM readings should be handled carefully.

Stability of serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, and plasma glucose of healthy individuals at different storage conditions

Evaluation of the stability of serum and plasma analytes under different temperatures and time points is vital since it significantly affects the pre-analytical errors. The aim of the study was to determine the stability of serum total cholesterol and triglyceride and plasma glucose of healthy individuals under different storage conditions (25-30°C and 2-8°C) and at different time points (1-hour, 4-hour, 6-hour, and 24-hour). Venous blood samples were collected from healthy individuals aged between 20-50 years after a 12-hour fast. Plasma and serum were separated and stored at different temperatures (25-30°C and 2-8°C) and different time points (1-hour, 4-hour, 6-hour, and 24-hour). Results indicated a significant difference between the mean plasma glucose concentration at room temperature (25-30°C) and refrigerated temperature (2-8°C) at 1-hour (0.072%, p = 0.05). However, there were no significant differences in mean serum total cholesterol concentrations (p = 0.633) and mean serum triglyceride concentrations (p = 0.246) between these temperatures at 1-hour time point. Regarding time points (1-hour, 4-hour, 6-hour, and 24-hour), significant differences in plasma glucose concentrations occurred at 24-hour (10.03%, p = 0.001) at room temperature (25-30°C) and 6-hour (8.79%, p = 0.003) at refrigerated temperature (2-8°C) compared to the 1-hour reference values. Additionally, there were significant differences in serum total cholesterol concentration at 4-hour (12.55%, p = 0.000) and serum triglyceride at 24-hour (29.18%, p = 0.001) compared to the reference values obtained at 1-hour at room temperature (25-30°C). No significant differences were observed among the time points (1-hour, 4-hour, 6-hour, and 24-hour) for serum total cholesterol (p = 0.507) and serum triglyceride values (p = 0.761) at refrigerated temperature (2-8°C). Plasma glucose is unstable at both room temperature (25-30°C) and refrigeration (2-8°C), with recommended testing within 6 hours at room temperature (25-30°C) and stored in a refrigerator (2-8°C) if delayed. It is better to estimate serum total cholesterol within 1-hour of collection at room temperature (25-30°C) while serum triglyceride concentration within 6 hours at the same temperature to obtain accurate and reliable results.

Lipid and glucose profiles in pregnant women with HIV on tenofovir-based antiretroviral therapy.

Tenofovir alafenamide (TAF)-based antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens have been associated with adverse changes in lipid and glucose profiles compared with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)-based ART, but data in pregnancy is limited. We evaluated metabolic markers in pregnant women with HIV after starting TAF- vs TDF-based ART. We analyzed data within the IMPAACT 2010/VESTED trial, which demonstrated better pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women randomized to initiate TAF/Emtricitabine/Dolutegravir (TAF/FTC+DTG; n=217) or TDF/FTC+DTG (n=215). We measured non-fasting plasma concentrations of glucose, total-cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), lipoprotein (a), and triglycerides from samples collected eight weeks after enrollment. We employed linear regression models to estimate by-arm mean differences. 219 participants enrolled in the DTG arms in Zimbabwe and Uganda: 109 in the TAF/FTC+DTG and 110 in the TDF/FTC+DTG arms. At study entry, mean gestational age was 22.6 weeks, median HIV-1 RNA was 711 copies/mL, and mean age was 25.8 years. By eight weeks, mean total cholesterol was 12 mg/dL higher in women randomized to TAF/FTC+DTG versus TDF/FTC+DTG (95% CI 3.8, 21.1). Pregnant women in the TAF/FTC+DTG arm had higher mean LDL-C (7.1 mg/dL, 95% CI 0.2, 14.0), triglycerides (12.3 mg/dL, 95% CI 1.8, 22.7), lipoprotein (a) (7.3 mg/dL, 95% CI 1.1, 13.6), and lower mean HDL-C (2.8 mg/dL, 95% CI 0.1, 5.6) compared to the TDF/FTC+DTG arm. Pregnant women randomized to start TAF/FTC+DTG had higher lipids than those randomized to TDF/FTC+DTG within eight weeks of ART initiation. However, lipid levels were within normal reference ranges.

Assessment of Correlation Between Glycaemic Variability Indices and Measures of Hypoglycaemia in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a global health burden, and India is regarded as the diabetes capital of the world. Glycaemic variability (GV) is an established risk factor for hypoglycaemia (plasma glucose concentration &lt;70 mg/dL) and a notorious risk factor for diabetes complications. The primary aim of the study was to assess the correlation between the GV indices, HbA1c levels, and measures of hypoglycaemia in patients with type 2 DM (T2DM). Methods: In this cross-sectional study, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) was done for a period of 14 days in T2DM patients (n = 50). The GV indices were determined from the readings obtained from the CGM monitor. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient was used for correlation analyses. The area under the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve was used to assess the effectiveness of the various GV indices in predicting hypoglycaemia. Results: A total of 50 T2DM patients had a mean (SD) age of 61.84 ± 11.88 years. Among the GV indices, high blood glucose index (HBGI), average daily risk range (ADRR), and continuous overall net glycaemic action (CONGA) had a significantly positive correlation with HbA1c levels. Average episodes of nocturnal hypoglycaemia in 8 hours of night-time had a statistically significant negative correlation with the HbA1c levels (correlation coefficient: −0.301, P = 0.034). In addition, low blood glucose index (LBGI) was found to be the best predictor for the risk of hypoglycaemia in 24 hours and nocturnal hypoglycaemia. Conclusion: Various GV indices are associated with HbA1c levels and are better predictors of hypoglycaemia.

The Effect of Different Forms of Solid Feed on Biochemical Parameters in Blood Plasma of Calves

Abstract The study examined how different solid feeds affected the biochemical parameters in calf plasma. The experiment involved a control group and three test groups of calves, each fed with a different starter mixture. The results showed significant differences in some biochemical parameters between the feeding groups. Calves in groups P1 and P3 had a statistically higher glucose concentration in blood plasma compared to group C. Calves from group P3 had a higher concentration of urea in blood plasma than calves from group C. Calves in groups P1 and P3 also had higher concentrations of total protein and globulin in blood plasma compared to group C. The concentration of inorganic phosphate in the blood plasma of calves from group P3 was significantly higher than that of group C. Female calves in the experimental groups showed a lower concentration of NEFA at three months of age compared to the control group. It was concluded that feeding calves with a starter mixture containing whey and easily digestible protein had a positive effect on the nutritional status and energy balance of the calves.

The signalling association of glucagon-like peptide-1 and its receptors in the gastrointestinal tract and GPR40 and insulin receptor in the pancreas of sheep

The present study was aimed at gaining insight into the signalling relationship between glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and its receptor (GLP-1R) in the regulation of glucose metabolism. Further, to assess the role of G-protein-coupled receptor 40 (GPR40) and insulin receptor (INSR) in the pancreas of sheep that were supplemented with calcium salts of long-chain fatty acids (CSFAs). An experiment was carried out over a period of 60 days with eighteen sheep, and they were fed with a standard basal diet. The sheep were divided into three groups: CSFA0 (without CSFAs), while CSFA3 and CSFA5 were supplemented with 3 % and 5 % of CSFAs, respectively. Plasma concentrations of GLP-1, insulin, glucagon, and glucose were assessed every two weeks. At the end of the experiment, sheep were slaughtered, and samples of gastrointestinal tract (GIT) epithelial tissues and pancreas were collected to assess the relative expression of mRNA of GPR40, GLP-1R, and INSR. Postprandial GLP-1 and insulin were increased by 3.7–4.1 and 1.45–1.5 times, respectively, in the CSFAs-supplemented groups compared to CSFA0. Post-feeding, glucagon and glucose levels decreased in CSFA3 and CSFA5 compared to CSFA0. The results indicated that the supplementation of LCFAs increased the expression of GLP-1R in the GIT and pancreas, as well as the mRNA of GPR40 and INSR in the pancreas. Chemosensing of LCFAs by GPR40 in the pancreas triggers signalling transduction, and enhanced GLP-1 and GLP-1R resulted in moderately increased insulin secretion and reduced glucagon levels. These combined effects, along with the glucose-lowering effect of GLP-1, effectively lowered glucose levels in normoglycemic sheep.

A veterinary-calibrated point-of-care glucometer accurately measures blood glucose concentration in dogs and cats.

To determine the clinical and analytical accuracy of a new veterinary-calibrated portable blood glucose monitor (PBGM) compared to a reference laboratory analyzer. Client-owned dogs (n = 77) and cats (n = 64). Peripheral and paired capillary whole-blood glucose concentrations measured via PBGM were compared to plasma glucose concentrations measured via a Cobas c501 reference analyzer (Roche). Analytical accuracy was evaluated with the Spearman rank correlation coefficient, Bland-Altman difference plot analysis, and Deming regression. Clinical accuracy was evaluated with Parkes error grid analysis. Paired peripheral and capillary blood samples were compared with the Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test. There was a high correlation between PBGM and reference analyzer readings in dogs and cats. Human quality assurance standards (International Organization for Standardization 15197:2013 guidelines) for analytical accuracy were met for 95% of feline peripheral blood samples and 89% of canine samples. Similar veterinary standards (American Society of Veterinary Clinical Pathology guidelines) were met for 89% of canine and 92% of feline peripheral blood glucose measurements. Error grid analysis showed that all peripheral canine and 97% of feline measurements were clinically accurate (zone A). Any altered clinical decision for the remaining feline measurements was expected to minimally impact outcome (zone B). No significant difference was found between peripheral and capillary blood glucose measurements in either species. The PBGM produced clinically accurate results and is suitable for use in veterinary and home settings to measure blood glucose.

Leucine requirement determined in healthy young adult males using the indicator amino acid oxidation method

BackgroundPrevious studies proposed varying leucine requirements for adults ranging from 25 to 40 mg⋅kg−1⋅d−1, but often these studies did not test intakes exceeding 40 mg⋅kg−1⋅d−1. Data using the indicator amino acid oxidation (IAAO) method suggest a higher requirement of 55 mg⋅kg−1⋅d−1 on the basis of the total branched-chain amino acids requirement, but not leucine independently. ObjectivesThe IAAO method was used to determine the leucine requirement in healthy young adult males. MethodsTen healthy adult males (26.9 ± 1.87 y, mean ± SEM) were studied at 7 leucine intakes; each studied over a 3-d period. Following 2-d of preadaptation to adequate protein intake (1.0 g⋅kg−1⋅d−1), subjects received experimental diets containing the randomly assigned test leucine intake (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 65, and 75 mg⋅kg−1⋅d−1) for 8 h. The rate of the release of 13CO2 from the oxidation of L-[1-13C]phenylalanine (F13CO2) was measured on the third day, and the leucine requirement was determined using mixed-effect change-point regression and the F13CO2 data in R. The 95% confidence interval was calculated using parametric bootstrap. The effect of leucine intake on the concentration of plasma amino acids, insulin, and glucose were assessed using repeated measures analysis of variance and linear mixed effects. ResultsThe mean leucine requirement was 33.6 mg⋅kg−1⋅d−1 with a lower and upper 95% confidence of 26.16, 41.04 mg⋅kg−1⋅d−1. Higher leucine intakes were associated with increased plasma leucine, and decreased valine, isoleucine, and serine concentrations. ConclusionsThe leucine requirement of young adult males is ∼34 mg⋅kg−1⋅d−1, which aligns with previously published tracer balance experiments.This trial was registered at http://clinicaltrials.gov (https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05394155?term=leucine%20young%20adult&rank=1) as NCT05394155.

Long-term hypoxia-induced physiological response in turbot Scophthalmus maximus L.

Hypoxia affects fish's survival, growth, and physiological metabolism processes. In this study, turbot plasma glucose and cortisol contents, hepatic glycolysis (hexokinase [HK], phosphofructokinase [PFK], pyruvate kinase [PK]) and lipolysis (fatty acid synthetase [FAS], lipoprotein lipase [LPL]) enzyme activities, anti-oxidant enzyme (superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase [CAT], glutathione peroxidase [GSH-Px]) activities, malondialdehyde (MDA), lactate and glycogen contents, gill histological parameters (lamellar length [SLL], width [SLW], interlamellar distance [ID]), respiratory frequency (RF), the proportion of the secondary lamellae available for gas exchange (PAGE), and hifs (hif-1α, hif-2α, hif-3α) expression were determined during long-term hypoxia and reoxygenation. Results showed that long-term hypoxia (3.34 ± 0.17mg L-1) significantly elevated plasma cortisol and glucose contents; increased hepatic HK, PK, PFK, FAS, and LPL activity; decreased hepatic glycogen, lactate contents, and lipid drop numbers; and caused changes of hepatocyte (vacuolation, pyknotic, and lytic nucleus) after treatment for 4weeks. Hepatic SOD, CAT, GSH-Px activity, and MDA contents; lamellar perimeter, SLL, ID, RF, and PAGE; and hepatic hif-1α, hif-2α, and hif-3α manifested similar results. Meanwhile, hif-1α is significantly higher than hif-2α, and hif-3α. Interestingly, females and males demonstrated no sex dimorphism significantly different from the above parameters (except hepatic FAS, LPL activity, and lipid drop number) under hypoxia. The above parameters recovered to normal levels after reoxygenation treatment for 4weeks. Thus, long-term hypoxia promotes turbot hepatic glycogenolysis and lipolysis, induces oxidative damage and stimulates hepatic antioxidant capacity, and alters gill morphology to satisfy insufficient energy demand and alleviate potential damage, while hif-1α plays critical roles in the above physiological process.

Social facilitation of trotting: Can horses perceive and adapt to the movement of another horse?

Exercise intensity is prone to be self-regulated in horses exercising freely. The main drivers include social, feeding and escape behaviors, as well as the operant conditioning. We hypothesized that self-regulated exercise intensity may increase due to the presence of another horse exercising ahead. Seven horses were assigned to a 2x2 crossover trial following treadmill familiarization. Video images of a trotting horse were displayed on the wall in front of the experimental unit (Visual), which was positioned in the treadmill. Physiological and behavioral markers were further compared with a control visual stimulus (Co), comprising a racetrack image without horses. Horses were sampled during a constant load exercise test (1) at rest (baseline), (2) after the warm-up (0 - 10th minute) and (3) after visual stimulation or control (10th- 12th minutes of the SET) to quantify plasma lactate and glucose concentration, heart rate, head angle, as well as behavioral markers. Following visual stimulation, heart rate (130.8 ± 27.8 b.p.m.) was higher than control (84.7 ± 15.1 b.p.m., P = .017), as was plasma lactate (Visual - 5.28 ± 1.48 mg/dl; Co -3.27 ± 1.24 mg/dl, P = .042) and head angle (Visual - 36.43 ± 3.69°; Co -25.14 ± 4.88°, P = .003). The prevalence of "ears forward" behavior was also higher following Visual (100% - 7/7) than Co (14% - 1/7, P = .004). These results suggest that visual stimulus (1) was safe and well tolerated and (2) prompted the anaerobic lactic pathways and shifted the behavior to a vigilant state. In conclusion, horses were able to perceive and adapt to a social environment. Our findings validate the use of social facilitation of trotting to encourage horses to move forward avoiding the use of the whip.

Beneficial Bacteria in the Gut Microbiota May Lead to Improved Metabolic and Immunological Status in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

We included 16 stable COPD patients and 16 healthy volunteer CTLs. The relative abundances of Bifidobacterium spp. (Bf) and Akkermansia muciniphila (Akk) bacteria and the Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes phyla were assessed by qPCR. Pulmonary function was evaluated by spirometry, biochemical parameters by colorimetric methods and plasma cytokine levels by cytometric bead array analysis. The Firmicutes/Bacteroides ratio was related to emergency hospital visits and six-minute walk test (6MWT) results. Furthermore, the relative abundance of Bf was associated with plasma concentrations of glucose, triglycerides, HDL-C and IL-10. In addition, Firmicutes levels and the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio were associated with the IL-12/IL-10 ratio, while Akk abundance was linked to IL-12 levels. The present findings suggest that the abundance of beneficial bacteria in the GM could influence clinical presentation and immunoregulation in COPD.

Benzalkonium chloride induced acute toxicity and its multifaceted implications on growth, hematological metrics, biochemical profiles, and stress-responsive biomarkers in tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus).

This study aimed to investigate the toxic effects of benzalkonium chloride (BAC) on Oreochromis mossambicus, a freshwater fish species. Probit analysis was used to determine the lethal concentration (LC50) of BAC for different exposure periods (24, 48, 72, and 96h). The viability of fish exposed to BAC was assessed using the general threshold survival models (GUTS) and confirmed with relevant datasets to evaluate model accuracy. Experimental groups of fish were exposed to BAC concentrations equivalent to 10% and 20% of the 96-h LC50 for 45days. The study revealed significant alterations in various parameters during sublethal BAC exposure. These effects included decreased specific growth rate (SGR), red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, hematocrit (Ht) value, plasma protein, and albumin levels, as well as acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities in both gills and liver. Additionally, an increase in gastrosomatic index (GSI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), plasma glucose and creatinine concentrations, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) enzymatic activities, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were observed in the exposed fish's gills and liver. Furthermore, the study found that glutathione S-transferase (GST) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels initially increased and then decreased in both gills and liver after exposure to BAC. Correlation matrix analysis, multivariate multiple regression (MMR), canonical correspondence analysis (CCA), integrated biomarker response (IBR), and biomarker response index (BRI) were utilized to assess the impact of BAC on fish, highlighting significant effects on multiple biomarkers in O. mossambicus following surfactant exposure. Thus, the study provides valuable insights into the toxic effects of BAC on this fish species, emphasizing the importance of monitoring such pollutants in aquatic environments.

LEAP2 is associated with impulsivity and reward sensitivity depending on the nutritional status and decreases with protein intake in humans.

Liver-expressed antimicrobial peptide 2 (LEAP2) dynamics in human plasma and its association with feeding behaviour remain poorly understood. Therefore, this study aims: (a) to investigate fasting LEAP2 in participants with normal weight or with overweight or mild obesity (OW/OB); (b) to study the association between fasting LEAP2 and anthropometric and metabolic traits, feeding behaviour, LEAP2 genetic variants and blood cell DNA methylation status; and (c) to ascertain postprandial changes in LEAP2 after high protein intake and the association with feeding behaviour and food intake. Anthropometric and behavioural measures, genotyping, methylation profiling, plasma glucose and LEAP2 concentrations were assessed in 327 females and males. A subgroup of 123 participants received an ad libitum high-protein meal, and postprandial LEAP2 concentration and behavioural measures were assessed. LEAP2 concentration was higher in participants with OW/OB (p < 0.001) and in females (p < 0.001), and was associated with LEAP2 single nucleotide polymorphisms rs765760 (p = 0.012) and rs803223 (p = 0.019), but not with LEAP2 methylation status. LEAP2 concentration was directly related to glycaemia (p = 0.001) and fullness (p = 0.003) in participants with normal weight, whereas it was associated with body mass index (p = 0.018), waist circumference (p = 0.014) and motor impulsivity in participants with OW/OB (p = 0.005). A negative association with reward responsiveness was observed in participants with OW/OB (p = 0.023). LEAP2 concentration was inversely associated with food intake (p = 0.034) and decreased after a high-protein meal (p < 0.001), particularly in women (p = 0.002). Increased LEAP2 in participants with OW/OB is associated with behavioural characteristics of obesity. Our results show sexual dimorphism in LEAP2 concentration before and after food intake and highlight the role of LEAP2 in feeding regulation.