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Objective： To analyze the serum metabolite compositions of the patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), to screen out the potential differential metabolites, and to explore the relationship between the occurrence of ESCC and energy metabolism, and to provide the useful energy metabolites for the early diagnosis of ESCC. Methods The serum samples of the ESCC patients and healthy volunteers were collected and divided into ESCC group and control group, and there were 7 cases in each group. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was used to detect the serum metabolites of the subjects in two groups；partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) models were used to identify the differences in serum metabolites of the subjects between ESCC group and control group, and they were classified according to the chemical classification of serum metabolites; targeted metabolomics analysis on serum energy metabolites was conducted based on the multi-response monitoring (MRM) mode to further identify the significantly differential energy metabolites and their pathways. Results A total of 266 metabolites were identified in the serum samples of the subjects in ESCC group and control group with the positive and negative ion modes, and there were 164 and 102 metabolites identified with the above two modes, respectively. The univariate statistical analysis results showed that there were significant differences in serum metabolites of the subjects between ESCC group and control group. Among the metabolites with chemical classification, lipids and lipid-like molecules accounted for the highest proportion (18.421%) . Three significantly different energy metabolites in ESCC group were found, and the expression levels of L-malic acid and isocitric acid were increased and the expression level of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) was decreased. Conclusion There are differences in the expressions of serum energy metabolites between the ESCC patients and healthy controls, and the occurrence of ESCC is related to the energy metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gut microbial composition seems to change in association with prediabetes. The purpose of this prospective cross-sectional study was to compare the composition of gut microbiota and energy metabolites between individuals with class III obesity but without type 2 diabetes mellitus (OB) and healthy normal weight controls. Methods: The subjects of this prospective cross-sectional study were participants recruited from a previous clinical trial (No: NCT02325804), with intervention focused on weight loss. We recruited 19 OB [mean age ± standard deviation (SD) was 35.4 ± 7.0 years, mean body mass index (BMI) ± SD was 48.8 ± 6.7 kg/m2] and 23 controls (mean age ± SD was 31.7 ± 14.8 years, mean BMI ± SD was 22.2 ± 1.7 kg/m2). Their fecal microbiota was categorized using specific primers targeting the V1–V3 region of 16S rDNA, whereas serum metabolites were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Multivariate statistical analysis and Random Forest models were applied to discriminate predictors with the highest variable importance. Results: We observed a significantly lower microbial α-diversity (P = 0.001) and relative abundance of beneficial bacterium Akkermansia (P = 0.001) and the short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria Eubacterium hallii (P = 0.019), Butyrivibrio (P = 0.024), Marvinbryantia (P = 0.010), and Coprococcus (P = 0.050) and a higher abundance of the pathogenic bacteria Bilophila (P = 0.018) and Fusobacterium (P = 0.022) in OB compared with controls. Notably, the Random Forest machine learning analysis identified energy metabolites (citrate and acetate), HOMA-IR, and insulin as important predictors capable of discriminating between OB and controls. Conclusions: Our results suggest that changes in gut microbiota and in serum acetate and citrate are additional promising biomarkers before progression to Type 2 diabetes. The non-invasive manipulation of gut microbiota composition in OB through a healthy lifestyle, thus, offers a new approach for managing class III obesity and associated disorders. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02325804 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: The periparturient period is a metabolically demanding time for dairy animals because of increased nutrient requirements for milk yield. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of feeding Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii (CNCM I-1079), a commercial active dry yeast (ADY), in dairy cows on productive and metabolic measures during the periparturient period. Primiparous (n = 33) and multiparous (n = 35) cows were fed a close-up total mixed ration (TMR) before calving and a lactation TMR postpartum. Three weeks before expected calving time, animals were blocked by parity and body weight and then randomly assigned to either control group (control; n = 34) or treatment (ADY; n = 34). All animals were housed in a tie-stall barn with individual feed bunks; the ADY animals received supplementary Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii (CNCM I-1079), top dressed daily at a predicted dosage of 1.0 × 1010 cfu (12.5 g) per head. Blood samples were collected weekly along with milk yield and milk composition data; feed intake data were collected daily. Serum samples were analyzed for glucose, nonesterified fatty acid, β-hydroxybutyrate, haptoglobin (Hp), and the cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-6, and IL-18. Colostrum samples collected within the first 6 to 10 h were analyzed for somatic cell score and IgG, IgA, and IgM concentrations. Data were analyzed using PROC GLIMMIX in SAS with time as a repeated measure; model included time, parity, treatment, and their interactions. The ADY groups had greater milk yield (39.0 ± 2.4 vs. 36.7 ± 2.3 kg/d) and tended to produce more energy-corrected milk with better feed efficiency. There was no difference in plasma glucose, serum nonesterified fatty acid, serum β-hydroxybutyrate, Hp, IL-6, or IL-18 due to ADY treatment. The tumor necrosis factor-α increased in ADY-supplemented animals (1.17 ± 0.69 vs. 4.96 ± 7.7 ng/mL), though week, parity, and their interactions had no effect. Serum amyloid A tended to increase in ADY-supplemented animals when compared to control animals and was additionally affected by week and parity; there were no significant interactions. No difference in colostrum IgG, IgA, and IgM was observed between treatments. Supplementing transition cow TMR with ADY (CNCM I-1079) improved milk production and tended to improve efficiency in early lactation; markers of inflammation were also influenced by ADY treatment, though the immunological effect was inconsistent.

The periparturient period is a metabolically demanding time for dairy animals because of increased nutrient requirements for milk yield. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of feeding Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii (CNCM I-1079), a commercial active dry yeast (ADY), in dairy cows on productive and metabolic measures during the periparturient period. Primiparous (n = 33) and multiparous (n = 35) cows were fed a close-up total mixed ration (TMR) before calving and a lactation TMR postpartum. Three weeks before expected calving time, animals were blocked by parity and body weight and then randomly assigned to either control group (control; n = 34) or treatment (ADY; n = 34). All animals were housed in a tie-stall barn with individual feed bunks; the ADY animals received supplementary Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii (CNCM I-1079), top dressed daily at a predicted dosage of 1.0 × 1010 cfu (12.5 g) per head. Blood samples were collected weekly along with milk yield and milk composition data; feed intake data were collected daily. Serum samples were analyzed for glucose, nonesterified fatty acid, β-hydroxybutyrate, haptoglobin (Hp), and the cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-6, and IL-18. Colostrum samples collected within the first 6 to 10 h were analyzed for somatic cell score and IgG, IgA, and IgM concentrations. Data were analyzed using PROC GLIMMIX in SAS with time as a repeated measure; model included time, parity, treatment, and their interactions. The ADY groups had greater milk yield (39.0 ± 2.4 vs. 36.7 ± 2.3 kg/d) and tended to produce more energy-corrected milk with better feed efficiency. There was no difference in plasma glucose, serum nonesterified fatty acid, serum β-hydroxybutyrate, Hp, IL-6, or IL-18 due to ADY treatment. The tumor necrosis factor-α increased in ADY-supplemented animals (1.17 ± 0.69 vs. 4.96 ± 7.7 ng/mL), though week, parity, and their interactions had no effect. Serum amyloid A tended to increase in ADY-supplemented animals when compared to control animals and was additionally affected by week and parity; there were no significant interactions. No difference in colostrum IgG, IgA, and IgM was observed between treatments. Supplementing transition cow TMR with ADY (CNCM I-1079) improved milk production and tended to improve efficiency in early lactation; markers of inflammation were also influenced by ADY treatment, though the immunological effect was inconsistent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Notwithstanding the great improvement of ART, the overall rate of successful pregnancies from implanted human embryos is definitely low. The current routine embryo quality assessment is performed only through morphological criteria, which has poor predictive capacity since only a minor percentage of those in the highest class give rise to successful pregnancy. Previous studies highlighted the potentiality of the analysis of metabolites in human embryo culture media, useful for the selection of embryos for implantation. In the present study, we analyzed in blind 66 human embryo culture media at 5 days after in vitro fertilization with the aim of quantifying compounds released by cell metabolism that were not present as normal constituents of the human embryo growth media, including purines, pyrimidines, nitrite, and nitrate. Only some purines were detectable (hypoxanthine and uric acid) in the majority of samples, while nitrite and nitrate were always detectable. When matching biochemical results with morphological evaluation, it was found that low grade embryos (n = 12) had significantly higher levels of all the compounds of interest. Moreover, when matching biochemical results according to successful (n = 17) or unsuccessful (n = 25) pregnancy, it was found that human embryos from the latter group released higher concentrations of hypoxanthine, uric acid, nitrite, and nitrate in the culture media. Additionally, those embryos that developed into successful pregnancies were all associated with the birth of healthy newborns. These results, although carried out on a relatively low number of samples, indicate that the analysis of the aforementioned compounds in the culture media of human embryos is a potentially useful tool for the selection of embryos for implantation, possibly leading to an increase in the overall rate of ART. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the effect of different levels of protected herbal choline (CHP) on productive performance, carcass characteristics, and serum metabolites in ewes. Design/Methodology/Approach: Fifty-two Hampshire × Suffolk ewes (29.95±3.90 kg of initial body weight, IBW) were randomly assigned to one within four treatments: 0, 0.3, 0.6 and 0.9% choline kg-1 dry matter (DM). The experimental design was complete randomized, in order to detect linear or quadratic trends. Results: No treatment effects were detected in the production variables, dorsal fat thickness and Longissimus dorsi muscle area, and AML with the addition of protected herbal choline in the diet (p>0.05). CHP linearly increased the concentration of cholesterol, glucose, albumins, globulins, total proteins (p≤0.05) and phosphatidylcholine (p≤0.10). The triglyceride concentration had a quadratic response (p≤0.05) to the addition of CHP. Study limitations/Implications: The level of choline supplementation in sheep depends on whether the source is herbal or synthetic. Findings/Conclusions: The addition of CHP in ewe diets raised the concentration of phosphatidylcholine, modified the concentration of protein and lipid metabolites. However, no improvements in production were found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wild populations of Drosophila show highly adaptive body metabolism in response to changing environments. The traits associated with starvation and desiccation stress vary with the geographical locations as well as climatic conditions. The energy storage and utilization during these stresses varies among different species. We examined the effects of physiological stress i.e., desiccation and starvation stress in wild populations of Drosophila busckii collected from the Lalpur region including Indira Gandhi National Tribal University (IGNTU) campus (22.67°N 81.75°E), Amarkantak. We found a difference in the level of metabolites between control vs desiccation hardened and starvation acclimated flies along with sexual dimorphism. This study focused on the abilities of wild D. busckii to tolerate physiological stress (desiccation and starvation) by altering the level of energy metabolites. In the present work, the levels of lipid and protein metabolites showed an interesting difference between control vs. hardened flies. Hardening or pre-treatment enhanced the survival against non-lethal stress, while climbing activity, cuticular lipids and total body lipids decreased with the increase in desiccation hardening and starvation acclimation period. We found a significant increase in the level of total body proteins in 3 h desiccation acclimated, and 16 h starvation acclimated flies as compared to control. The female Drosophila busckii were more resistant to sub-lethal stress. The compensatory changes in the levels of total body lipids, cuticular lipids and proteins suggest possible energetic homeostasis in D. busckii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uterine diseases are common problem that influence the reproductive output in dairy farm. Different factors include metabolic disturbances may affect the uterine defense mechanism and contribute at postpartum uterine disease occurrence. The routine metabolic profile is measurements of net values of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA), and glucose (Glc) in cow serum. The present study aimed to look at the ratios of the energy metabolic products during the transition period and investigate their relationship with bovine clinical endometritis. The weekly serum samples were collected from 100 dairy cows during the transition period (2 weeks prepartum to 3 weeks postpartum). In the clean test (Day 30 postpartum), 16 cows were selected, and assigned in a case-control repeated measure design into two groups as clinical endometritis (CE: n=8) or healthy cows (n=8). The respective serum samples of the cows were assayed for NEFA, BHBA, and Glc. All the measurement units were converted to mM/L and the ratios were calculated. The trend of changes in the ratios of NEFA to BHBA was in a steady state in healthy cows during the transition period, while it raised at the time of parturition in the CE group (P<0.05). While the significant increase in NEFA to Glc ratio started after parturition in healthy cows, it was begun to increase before parturition in CE. The trend of changes in the energy metabolite ratios during the transition is different in CE compared to healthy dairy cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Narrow distribution patterns of tropical Drosophila species are limited by lower resistance to cold or drought. In the invasive tropical Drosophila kikkawai, we tested whether developmental and adult acclimations at cooler temperatures could enhance its stress resistance level. Adult acclimation of winter collected body color morphs revealed a significant increase in the level of cold resistance. For light morph, its abundance during winter is not consistent with thermal-melanism hypothesis. However, higher cold acclimation capacity, as well as storage of energy metabolites could support its winter survival. In the wild-caught light and intermediate morphs, there is a lack of trade-off between cold and heat resistance but not in the case of dark morph. Developmental plasticity (15°C) resulted in the fivefold increase of cold survival at 0°C; and a twofold increase in desiccation resistance but a modest reduction (∼28–35%) in heat resistance as compared to morph strains reared at 25°C. Drought acclimation changes were significantly higher as compared with cold or heat pretreatment. We observed a trade-off between basal resistance and acclimation capacity for cold, heat, or drought resistance. For homeostatic energy balance, adult acclimation responses (cold versus drought; heat versus drought) caused compensatory plastic changes in the levels of proline or trehalose (shared patterns) but different patterns for total body lipids. In contrast, rapid cold or heat hardening-induced changes in energy metabolites were different as compared to acclimation. The ability of D. kikkawai to significantly increase stress tolerance through plasticity is likely to support its invasion potential.

Aim: This experiment was conducted to determine the effect of yeast cell wall (YCW) supplementation on production performances and blood biochemical indices such as liver enzyme activities, energy metabolites, and electrolyte concentrations of dairy cows in different lactation periods (LP). Materials and Methods: Thirty-two lactating Holstein cows were assigned into 2×2 factorial arrangement, in which the factors were the treatment (TM) (control [n=16] vs. YCW [n=16]) and the LP (early lactation [n=14] vs. mid-lactation [n=18]). The cows with day in milk (DIM) 120 (179±5 DIM) were assumed as mid-lactating cows. The YCW (SafMannan; Phileo, Lesaffre Animal Care, France) was used as the dietary supplement (10 g/cow/day) in this experiment. The statistical analysis of the data was performed by the two-way analysis of variance using the general linear model procedure to determine the main effects (TM and LP) and their interaction (TM×LP) on production performances and blood biochemical parameters of experimental cows. Results: No significant effects (p>0.05) of YCW supplementation on production performances and blood biochemical indices of cows in TM groups (control vs. YCW) were observed; however, some obvious effects were detected in LP (early- and mid-lactation). Milk and milk component yield of cows in early lactation were significantly higher (p0.05) with the YCW supplementation. The higher level (p

Quantitative estimates of mammary nutrient inputs, outputs and metabolism in sows are scarce, despite being critical elements to identify parameters controlling milk synthesis central for the feeding of lactating sows. The objective of this study was to quantify the mammary gland input and output of nutrients as well as the intramammary partitioning of carbon and nitrogen with the purpose to identify mechanisms controlling mammary nutrient inputs, metabolism and milk production in lactating sows. A data set was assembled by integration of results from four studies. The data set included data on litter performance, mammary arterial-venous concentration differences (AV-difference) of energy metabolites and amino acids, and the contents of lactose, fat and amino acids in milk. Milk yield was estimated based on average litter size and litter gain, and mammary plasma flow (MPF) was estimated using the sum of phenylalanine and tyrosine as internal flow markers. The yield and composition of milk were used to estimate mammary nutrient output in milk, and MPF and AV-difference were used to estimate net mammary input of carbon and nitrogen and output of CO2. Carbon and nitrogen used for the synthesis of lactose, fat and protein in milk and CO2-yielding processes were represented in a static nutrient partitioning model. The origin of mammary CO2 output was calculated using theoretical estimates of carbon released in processes supporting mammary synthesis of de novo fat, protein and lactose in milk, mammary tissue protein turnover and transport of glucose and amino acids. Results indicated that total input of carbon from glucose and lactate was partitioned into lactose (36%), fat (31%) and CO2-yielding processes (34%). Theoretical CO2 estimates indicated that de novo fat synthesis, milk protein synthesis and mammary tissue protein turnover were the main processes related to mammary CO2 production. More than 90% of mammary gland amino acid input was used for milk protein. The quadratic relationship between AV-difference and mammary input of essential amino acids indicated that both changes in AV-difference and MPF contributed to the regulation of mammary input of essential amino acids. The impact of the arterial supply of amino acids on mammary input may be greater for the branched-chain amino acids, arginine and phenylalanine than for other essential amino acids. In conclusion, relationships between input and output parameters indicate that AV-difference and MPF regulate mammary nutrient input to match the supply and demand of nutrients for the mammary gland.

Study was conducted to assess the effect of dietary supplementation of astaxanthin, prill fat and their combination on physiological responses, energy metabolites and prolactin levels in buffaloes during summer season. Twenty four lactating buffaloes were equally divided into four groups, viz. Gr I (control), Gr II (astaxanthin supplementation @ 0.25 mg/kg body wt/day), Gr III (prill fat @ 100 g/animal/day) and Gr IV (combination of both). The respiration rate was lower in treatment groups than control. Plasma glucose in combination group was higher than control. Plasma NEFA was lower in treatment groups compared to control. Prolactin level was lower in supplemented groups compared to control. Based on the results it can be concluded that astaxanthin supplementation helped in ameliorating effects of heat stress whereas prill fat worked as source of energy to maintain the energy balance in lactating buffaloes. The combinations of both the products are more effective as far as stress markers and increase in milk production is concerned but due to higher price of astaxanthin the cost benefit ratio is lower than prill fat supplementation alone. Therefore, farmers prefer to feed prill fat to their lactating buffaloes during summer conditions.

The objective of the present study was to use longitudinal data to examine the relationships between blood concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), and glucose during the transition period in dairy goats. Weekly blood samples were collected from Saanen goats from a commercial herd in Australia [1–7 yr; body weight 70 ± 16.0 kg; body condition score 2.5 ± 0.3; and daily milk yield 2.4 ± 0.73 L/d; all mean ± standard deviation (SD)]. The weekly prevalence of goats above hyperketonemic levels (BHB ≥0.8 mmol/L) was approximately 6 times greater postpartum than antepartum. As well, of the 935 goats sampled antepartum, 50 (5%) had at least 1 hyperketonemic event, and 823 (88%) had at least 1 event of NEFA above the threshold (≥0.3 mmol/L). Of 847 goats tested postpartum, 258 (30%) had at least 1 hyperketonemic event, and 690 goats (81%) had at least 1 event of NEFA above the threshold (≥ 0.7 mmol/L). Substantial variation was found when analyzing the mean days of maximum NEFA and maximum BHB concentrations antepartum (−11 ± 6.6 and −14 ± 7.2 d, respectively, mean ± SD) and postpartum (14 ± 6.6 and 9 ± 6.8 d, respectively, mean ± SD). We observed moderate to strong relationships between NEFA and BHB concentrations (r = 0.66) and between NEFA and glucose concentrations (r = −0.46) throughout the transition period. Our results suggested that 3 to 16 d in milk is the best sampling window for monitoring hyperketonemia in dairy goats, and that results from simultaneous BHB and glucose tests provide an improved indication of the fat mobilization and energy status of the herd when measured close to this timeframe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic responses to multiple environmental stressors in wet or dry seasonal populations of tropical Drosophila species have received less attention. We tested plastic effects of heat hardening, acclimation to drought or starvation, and changes in trehalose, proline and body lipids in Drosophila ananassae flies reared under wet or dry season-specific conditions. Wet season flies revealed significant increase in heat knockdown, starvation resistance and body lipids after heat hardening. However, accumulation of proline was observed only after desiccation acclimation of dry season flies while wet season flies elicited no proline but trehalose only. Therefore, drought-induced proline can be a marker metabolite for dry-season flies. Further, partial utilization of proline and trehalose under heat hardening reflects their possible thermoprotective effects. Heat hardening elicited cross-protection to starvation stress. Stressor-specific accumulation or utilization as well as rates of metabolic change for each energy metabolite were significantly higher in wet-season flies than dry-season flies. Energy metabolite changes due to inter-related stressors (heat versus desiccation or starvation) resulted in possible maintenance of energetic homeostasis in wet- or dry-season flies. Thus, low or high humidity-induced plastic changes in energy metabolites can provide cross-protection to seasonally varying climatic stressors.

In montane Drosophila species, cold-induced plastic changes in energy metabolites are likely developed to cope with cold and starvation stress. Adult Drosophila immigrans reared at 15°C were acclimated at 0°C or 7°C for durations of up to 6 days (fed or unfed conditions). Such flies were tested for plastic changes in resistance to cold or starvation stress as well as for possible accumulation and utilization of four energy metabolites (body lipids, proline, trehalose and glycogen). Adults acclimated at 7°C revealed a greater increase in cold tolerance than flies acclimated at 0°C. Different durations of cold acclimation at 7°C led to increased level of body lipids only in fed flies which were utilized under starvation stress. However, such plastic responses were not observed in the flies acclimated at 0°C, which remained unfed due to chill-coma. These observations suggest a possible role of feeding to improve starvation resistance only in the flies acclimated at 7°C with food. Cold acclimated D. immigrans flies revealed improved cold resistance through a possible reshuffling of trehalose and glycogen; and starvation-induced proline which was utilized under cold stress durations. Finally, greater reduction in mean daily fecundity due to cold or starvation was observed in 0°C acclimated flies as compared to 7°C acclimated flies. Thus, cold acclimation conditions (0°C or 7°C) greatly impact resistance to cold and starvation in D. immigrans.

The objective of the study was to evaluate correlation between milk yield (MY), milk components (fat, protein and lactose), hormones (T3, T4, insulin and GH), blood metabolites (glucose and NEFA) and blood macro-minerals (Ca, P and Mg) during entire lactation based on 161 observations of 07 Murrah buffaloes. The average Lactation length recorded was 338.57 ± 10.64 days. The correlations between MY and milk composition, hormones with MY and milk composition, blood metabolites with MY and milk composition and blood macro-minerals values with MY and milk composition during the entire lactation were evaluated. The results indicated that the relationship of blood hormones, energy metabolites and blood macro-minerals parameters would help to understand the role of each of them in understanding the lactational physiology of buffaloes in relation to endocrine regulation and nutritional partitioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was aimed to investigate body condition, hepatic insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1, IGF binding protein (BP)-1 and growth hormone receptor (GHR) mRNA abundance and specific energy metabolites in association with delayed ovarian resumption in Holstein lactating cows. Of 10 cows studied, 5 cows had normal ovarian resumption (NR group), whereas the remaining 5 cows had delayed ovarian resumption (AB group) within 7 wks after calving. No significant differences in mean BW and BCS between the two groups were observed (P > 0.05). In addition, mean hepatic IGF-1, IGFBP-1 and GHR mRNA abundance of the NR and AB groups was not significantly different (P > 0.05). Mean non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) levels of the two groups were elevated, particularly at 1 wk after calving, but no significant differences between the two groups were observed (P > 0.05). In contrast, differences in mean betahydroxybutyrate (BHB) levels between the NR and AB groups were significant (P = 0.047) and mean BHB levels at 3 and 5 wks after calving of the AB group were higher than those of the NR group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the effects of BW, BCS, hepatic IGF-1, IGFBP-1 and GHR mRNA abundance and NEFA levels were not observed, but a degree of negative energy balance (NEB), indicated by the elevated BHB levels during the early postpartum period, was associated with the occurrence of delayed resumption of ovarian activity in the Holstein lactating cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To find out the effect of prill fat feeding on milk production and hormonal changes in crossbred cows. Materials and Methods: Crossbred cows in mid lactation (150 days) were selected from the institutes' herd. The observations on dry matter intake (DMI), body weight, body condition score (BCS)were recorded and milk composition, plasma metabolites viz., glucose and Nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) were measured in control (CON) and experimental prill fat group (PFG) cows. During the experimental period, PFG cows were fed with bypass prill fat @ 75 g/d for a period of 90 days. Results: The DMI and body weight of cows was non-significant (P>0.05) between the groups, but BCS of cows improved in the CON group. Crude protein and Total digestible nutrients (TDN) intake/kg body weight was more (P>0.05) in PFG over the CON. Milk yield, plasma hormones - Growth hormone, triiodothyronine and thyroxine (GH, T3, T4) was significantly lower in CON group over the PFG cows (P

Some insect taxa from polar or temperate habitats have shown cross-tolerance for multiple stressors but tropical insect taxa have received less attention. Accordingly, we considered adult flies of a tropical drosophilid- Zaprionus indianus for testing direct as well as cross-tolerance effects of rapid heat hardening (HH), desiccation acclimation (DA) and starvation acclimation (SA) after rearing under warmer and drier season specific simulated conditions. We observed significant direct acclimation effects of HH, DA and SA; and four cases of cross-tolerance effects but no cross-tolerance between desiccation and starvation. Cross-tolerance due to heat hardening on desiccation showed 20% higher effect than its reciprocal effect. There is greater reduction of water loss in heat hardened flies (due to increase in amount of cuticular lipids) as compared with desiccation acclimated flies. However, cross-tolerance effect of SA on heat knockdown was two times higher than its reciprocal. Heat hardened and desiccation acclimated adult flies showed substantial increase in the level of trehalose and proline while body lipids increased due to heat hardening or starvation acclimation. However, maximum increase in energy metabolites was stressor specific i.e. trehalose due to DA; proline due to HH and total body lipids due to SA. Rapid changes in energy metabolites due to heat hardening seem compensatory for possible depletion of trehalose and proline due to desiccation stress; and body lipids due to starvation stress. Thus, observed cross-tolerance effects in Z. indianus represent physiological changes to cope with multiple stressors related to warmer and drier subtropical habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the plasma hormonal and metabolic changes in Zebu (Sahiwal) cattle during summer and winter season, five each of periparturient high and low yielding cows were selected from Livestock Research Centre, ICAR-NDRI, Karnal. Blood samples were collected on days -45, -30, -15 (prior to parturition), 0 (day of parturition) and 15, 30, 45 (postpartum) during both the seasons and plasma was separated. Plasma cortisol levels were significantly higher on day of parturition and during postpartum period in both the groups during both the seasons. Plasma insulin levels were significantly (P<0.05) lower during summer in high yielder group. On the day of calving, plasma T3 and T4 levels were significantly (P<0.05) lower in high yielders during both seasons. Plasma leptin levels were lower (P<0.05) on day of parturition in high yielders than low yielders during both seasons. Plasma glucose levels were significantly lower (P<0.05) on day of parturition and remained low during postpartum period in both groups during both seasons comparel to prepartum period. Plasma NEFA levels of both groups of cows were higher on the day of calving and remained higher during postpartum period over pre calving values. High yielder cows showed more deviation in stress markers viz. cortisol and NEFA than low yielder cows. Therefore, special attention should be given to feeding and management of the lactating animals (especially high yielding cows during summer) around parturition for sustained productivity and maintenance of homeostasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anoxic depolarization (AD) is an acute event evoked by brain ischemia, involving a profound loss of cell membrane potential and swelling that spreads over susceptible parts of the gray matter. Its occurrence is a strong predictor of the severity of neuronal injury. Little is known about this event in the Substantia Nigra, a midbrain nucleus critical for motor control. We tested the effects of oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD), an in vitro model of brain ischemia, in rat midbrain slices. AD developed within 4 min from OGD onset and spread in the Substantia Nigra pars reticulata (SNr), but not through the Substantia Nigra pars compacta (SNc). This differential effect involved a contrasting pattern of changes in membrane potential between dopamine-producing SNc and non-dopaminergic SNr neurons. A fast depolarization in SNr neurons was not followed by repolarization after the end of OGD, and was associated with swollen somata and beaded dendrites. In contrast, slowly developing depolarization of SNc neurons led to repolarization after OGD ended, and no changes in neuronal morphology were observed. The AD-resistance of the SNc involved smaller dysregulations of K + and Ca 2+ ions, and a slower loss of energy metabolites. Our results show that acute ischemia profoundly impairs the function and morphology of SNr neurons but not adjacent SNc neurons, and that the surprising higher tolerance of SNc neurons correlates with the resistance of the SNc region to AD. This differential response may affect the pattern of early neuronal injury that develops in the brainstem after acute ischemic insults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Negative energy balance in pregnant ewes during last two month of gestation could result in fatal pregnancy toxemia and affects ewe and lamb health. The understanding of variations of energy related metabolites during this critical period may cast light upon to a better management of the situation. This study describes the variations of serum energy related biochemical metabolites at a period of 45 days before to 21 days after parturition in Baloochi breed ewes. Blood from the jugular vein was collected from each sheep at days 45, 30, 20, 10, 1 prior to parturition, and days 4, 7, 13, 19 and 21 post-partum to determine total protein, albumin, urea , cholesterol, glucose, triglyceride, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), -Hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) and non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA). NEFA and BHBA concentrations reached peak levels at parturition. However, AST activity had highest levels at the first and second week after lambing. AST activity significantly correlated to energy metabolism indicators. This enzyme had positive significant correlations with NEFA and BHBA and negative correlations with cholesterol and triglyceride. NEFA concentrations had a positive correlation with BHBA and negative correlation with glucose and cholesterol. At pre-partum period NEFA correlation with BHBA and AST were stronger than post-partum. This finding indicates that NEFA testing at pre-parturition days is a reliable predictor of fat mobilization and energy status of pre-parturition period in sheep. Urea and total protein concentrations reached lowest levels at parturition and then gradually increased afterwards.

Seasonally varying populations of ectothermic insect taxa from a given locality are expected to cope with simultaneous changes in temperature and humidity through phenotypic plasticity. Accordingly, we investigated the effect of saturation deficit on resistance to desiccation in wild-caught flies from four seasons (spring, summer, rainy and autumn) and corresponding flies reared in the laboratory under season-specific simulated temperature and humidity growth conditions. Flies raised under summer conditions showed approximately three times higher desiccation resistance and increased levels of cuticular lipids compared with flies raised in rainy season conditions. In contrast, intermediate trends were observed for water balance-related traits in flies reared under spring or autumn conditions but trait values overlapped across these two seasons. Furthermore, a threefold difference in saturation deficit (an index of evaporative water loss due to a combined thermal and humidity effect) between summer (27.5 mB) and rainy (8.5 mB) seasons was associated with twofold differences in the rate of water loss. Higher dehydration stress due to a high saturation deficit in summer is compensated by storage of higher levels of energy metabolite (trehalose) and cuticular lipids, and these traits correlated positively with desiccation resistance. In Z. indianus, the observed changes in desiccation-related traits due to plastic effects of simulated growth conditions correspond to similar changes exhibited by seasonal wild-caught flies. Our results show that developmental plastic effects under ecologically relevant thermal and humidity conditions can explain seasonal adaptations for water balance-related traits in Z. indianus and are likely to be associated with its invasive potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to investigate the effect of α-tocopherol acetate and zinc on body condition, energy metabolites and milk production in Karan Fries cows. Sixteen pregnant Karan Fries cows were selected two months before expected date of calving. The experimental animals were randomly divided in to two groups namely control group (eight cows) and treatment group (eight cows). Treatment group cows were supplemented with a-tocopherol acetate @ 1000 IU/day/cow and zinc @ 60 ppm/day/cow. Blood samples were collected on the days -60, -45, -30, -15, -7, 0, +7, +15, +30, +45 and +60 with respect to expected date of calving. The body weight and body condition score of all the experimental animals was recorded on the day of blood collection. After calving milk yield of the experimental animals was recorded till 60 days in milk. At parturition, body weight and body condition score differ significantly (P<0.001) in treatment group than control group (448.00 vs. 416.33 Kg and 4.42 vs. 4.17, respectively). The overall mean (±SEM) of plasma glucose was found to be significantly (P<0.001) higher in treatment group as compared to control group (62.39±1.23 vs. 57.44±1.59 mg/dl). The overall mean of non-esterified fatty acids was found to be significantly (P<0.001) lower in treatment group as compared to control group (197.10±3.38 vs. 239.21±3.48 μM/L). The overall mean of milk yield was found significantly (P<0.001) higher in treatment group as compared to control group (20.48±1.16 vs. 16.94±1.38 Kg/day i.e. 20.90%). The results of this study indicated that supplementation of antioxidants like α-tocopherol acetate and zinc have beneficial effects on milk production along with improved body condition and metabolic status of the animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucocorticoids are important mediators of energy utilization for key physiological processes, including immune function. Much work has focused on the effects of energy limitation and stress for key physiological processes such as reproduction and immunity. However, it is unclear how stress alters energy use across different energy states, and the physiological ramifications of such effects are even less clear., In this study, we altered energy and stress states of an infrequent feeder, the terrestrial gartersnake ( Thamnophis elegans), using fasting and repeated restraint stress (chronic stressors) to test how these challenges interacted to affect immune function, energy metabolites and glucocorticoid reactivity (a traditional indicator of stress state) to restraint stress, a standardized, acute stressor. After this acute stressor, the snakes which had received chronic stress had increased glucocorticoid reactivity, and both treatments altered energy metabolite use and storage. Evidence of interaction of food restriction and chronic stress treatments on innate immune function and energy metabolites (triglycerides and glycerol) suggests that stress alters energy use in a manner dependent on the energy state of the animal., Snakes have a remarkable ability to maintain functionality of key physiological processes under stressful conditions but are still susceptible to multiple simultaneous stressors, a situation increasingly prevalent in our ever-changing environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study that aims to establish a possible association between energy metabolites and plasma hormones during the parturition of dairy cows.

The study aims to compare the accuracy of haptoglobin (Hp) and serum amyloid A (SAA) concentrations for the diagnosis of retained placenta (RP) and their relation to energy metabolites during three stages of postpartum periods in dairy cattle. To this end, 40 postcalving dairy cows with RP (group I) and clinically healthy (group II) were selected ( n = 20 each). The cows were placed into three stages of time period, from 1 to 3 weeks after parturition. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein of all groups. There were significant differences in mean Hp and SAA concentrations of RP in 1 and 2 weeks after calving compared to healthy cows ( p < 0.05). Our results indicated positive correlations of Hp and SAA with beta-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA), nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), triglyceride (TG) and cholesterol (Chol) and negative correlations with glucose (Glu) in the diseased group of cows in all three postpartum periods. Finally, this study showed the application of Hp and SAA measurements as indicators of RP in dairy cattle. Also, serum biochemical energy-related parameters could be successfully applied as valuable indicators of diseases and energy metabolic status in postcalving dairy cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several Drosophila species originating from tropical humid localities are more resistant to starvation and heat stress than populations from high latitudes but mechanistic bases of such physiological changes are largely unknown. In order to test whether humidity levels affect starvation and heat resistance, we investigated developmental acclimation effects of low to high humidity conditions on the storage and utilization of energy resources, body mass, starvation survival, heat knockdown and heat survival of D. melanogaster. Isofemale lines reared under higher humidity (85% RH) stored significantly higher level of lipids and showed greater starvation survival hours but smaller in body size. In contrast, lines reared at low humidity evidenced reduced levels of body lipids and starvation resistance. Starvation resistance and lipid storage level were higher in females than males. However, the rate of utilization of lipids under starvation stress was lower for lines reared under higher humidity. Adult flies of lines reared at 65% RH and acclimated under high or low humidity condition for 200 hours also showed changes in resistance to starvation and heat but such effects were significantly lower as compared with developmental acclimation. Isofemale lines reared under higher humidity showed greater heat knockdown time and heat-shock survival. These laboratory observations on developmental and adult acclimation effects of low versus high humidity conditions have helped in explaining seasonal changes in resistance to starvation and heat of the wild-caught flies of D. melanogaster. Thus, we may suggest that wet versus drier conditions significantly affect starvation and heat resistance of D. melanogaster. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To find out the effect of prill fat feedingon milk production and hormonal changesin crossbred cows. Materials and Methods: Crossbred cows in mid lactation (150 days) were selected from the institutes' herd. The observations on dry matter intake (DMI), body weight, body condition score (BCS)were recorded and milk composition, plasma metabolites viz., glucose and Nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) were measured in control (CON) and experimental prill fat group (PFG) cows. During the experimental period, PFG cows were fed with bypass prill fat@75g/d for a period of 90 days. Results: The DMI and body weight of cows was non-significant (P>0.05) between the groups, but BCS of cows improved in the CON group. Crude protein and Total digestible nutrients (TDN) intake/kg body weight was more (P>0.05) in PFG over the CON. Milk yield, plasma hormones - Growth hormone, triiodothyronine and thyroxine (GH, T3, T 4) was significantly lower in CON group over the PFG cows (P<0.05). However ghrelin and leptin levels were not affected. Milk fat, protein, lactose and cholesterol were similar in both the groups. Furthermore, plasma NEFA decreased (P<0.05) and glucose varied non-significantly between the groups. Conclusion: It was concluded that prill fat supplementation can be used to augment milk production without influencing milk composition and plasma metabolites incrossbred cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geographically varying starvation stress has often been considered as a natural selector that constrains between-population differences for starvation resistance (SR) in Drosophila species. On the Indian subcontinent, a dozen Drosophila species have shown clinal variations in SR across latitude, but the evolved physiological basis of such contrasting adaptations is largely unknown. In the present study, I untangled the physiological basis of sex-specific as well as between-population divergence for SR in D. leontia, collected across a latitudinal transect of the Indian subcontinent (11<45Œ.31<19ŒN). Secondly, I tested the assumptions that hardening to starvation stress facilitates an increased survival under subsequent lethal levels of starvation, and such plastic effects differ between the sexes. I observed several interesting results. In contrast to a steeper cline of starvation-related traits with latitude in females, a shallower gradient was observed for males. Females stored higher (~1.3-fold) dry-massspecific levels of body lipids and glycogen contents, and utilized these both of these energy resources under starvation stress, whereas the starved males metabolized only body lipids as a source of energy. Conversely, the rate of body lipid utilization and threshold need were considerably higher in females as compared with males. Betweenpopulation differences were significant for storage levels of energy reserves only, but not for other avenues (rate of metabolite utilization and threshold need) of SR for both sexes. These findings indicate that multiple pathways shape the physiological basis of sexual dimorphism for SR in D. leontia. Further, single or multiple bouts of starvation hardening conferred an increased longevity (~4.9 h; P<0.001) under subsequent lethal levels of starvation stress for females only, and such plastic responses were consistent with a decrease in rate of metabolite utilization. Nevertheless, between-population effects were non-significant for absolute hardening capacity (AHC=KSR.C). Altogether, these findings suggest that similar evolutionary constraints have resulted in divergent genetic as well as plastic responses to evolve adaptations under starvation stress, and account for the observed sexual dimorphism for basal SR in D. leontia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the effect of chromium (Cr) supplementation on the growth performance, energy metabolites, and hormonal variation in winter-exposed buffalo calves. Twenty-four female buffalo calves were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments ( n = 6) for a period of 120 days. Feeding regimen was the same in all the groups, except the animals in the four respective groups were additionally supplemented with 0.0, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 mg of Cr/kg DM in the form of CrCl.6HO. Calves were monitored daily for physiological variables and dry matter intake (DMI). Blood samples were collected at fortnightly intervals from each buffalo calves to measure concentrations of hormones (insulin, cortisol, and growth hormone), energy metabolites (glucose and non-esterified fatty acids), and plasma mineral levels. After 120 days of feeding trial, buffalo calves fed with Cr had lower ( P < 0.05) circulating plasma concentrations of glucose, insulin, and cortisol hormones, whereas plasma thyroid hormone and non-esterified fatty acids concentrations were found similar ( P > 0.05) among all the treatments. The results suggested that dietary Cr supplementation influenced plasma Cr levels without affecting the plasma concentrations of other trace minerals. However, physiological variables, nutrient intake, and growth performance of buffalo calves did not differ among all treatments ( P > 005). In summary, the current study showed that supplementation of Cr at the level of 1.0 and 1.5 mg of Cr/kg DMI was more effective in improving glucose utilization by increasing potency of insulin hormone and reducing concentration of cortisol hormone. Results also suggested that supplemental Cr also improves blood plasma Cr levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies on diverse Drosophila species have reported higher desiccation resistance of females, but the physiological basis of such sex-specific differences has received less attention. We tested whether sex-specific differences in cuticular traits (melanic females and non-melanic males) of Drosophila kikkawai correspond with divergence in their water balance mechanisms. Our results are interesting in several respects. First, positive clinal variation in desiccation resistance was correlated with cuticular melanisation in females but with changes in cuticular lipid mass in males, despite a lack of differences between the sexes for the rate of water loss. Second, a comparative analysis of water budget showed that females of the northern population stored more body water as well as hemolymph content and exhibited greater dehydration tolerance than flies from the southern tropics. In contrast, we found no geographical variation in the males for water content and dehydration tolerance. Third, an ~10-fold increase in the rate of water loss after organic solvent treatment of male D. kikkawai suggested a role of cuticular lipids in cuticular transpiration, but had no effect in the females. Fourth, geographical differences in the storage of carbohydrate content (metabolic fuel) were observed in females but not in males. Interestingly, in females, the rate of utilization of carbohydrates did not vary geographically, but males from drier localities showed a 50% reduction compared with wetter localities. Thus, body melanisation, increased body water, hemolymph, carbohydrate content and greater dehydration tolerance confer greater desiccation resistance in females, but a reduced rate of water loss is the only possible mechanism to cope with drought stress in males. Finally, acclimated females showed a significant increase in drought resistance associated with higher trehalose content as well as dehydration tolerance, while males showed no acclimation response. Thus, sex-specific differences in desiccation resistance of D. kikkawai are associated with divergence in some water balance strategies, despite a lack of differences in the rate of water loss between the two sexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study describes the fluctuations in serum energy-related metabolites during a period of 2 weeks before, to 2 weeks after parturition in Lori-Bakhtiari ewes. The effect of parity was also studied. Blood profiles were determined in 60 healthy pregnant ewes with single (n =30) and twin (n =30) lambings. Blood was collected from each ewe on days 14 and 7 prepartum, and days 7 and 14 postpartum to determine the serum non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), glucose, cholesterol, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and calcium (Ca) levels. The age of the ewes had no significant effect on the energy metabolism indicators. Serum NEFA, BHBA, glucose, BUN and calcium concentrations recorded peak levels 7 days before parturition. However, NEFA and BHBA recorded significant changes (P <0.05) during the peri-parturition period. All metabolites changed significantly in ewes carrying twin-bearing ewes, compared to single-bearing ewes. Serum BHBA concentrations recorded positive correlations with the serum NEFA (P <0.01) and cholesterol (P <0.05), while blood glucose had negative correlations (P <0.01) with NEFA, BHBA and Ca. Blood NEFA and BHBA recorded positive correlations (P <0.05) with the BUN levels and negative correlations (P <0.05) with Ca. The results showed that blood NEFA and BHBA levels are sensitive indicators of the energy balance during the peri-parturition period in ewes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: In vivo hepatic phosphorus-31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy (P-MRS) provides non-invasive information about phospholipid metabolism. Aims: To delineate P-MRS abnormalities in patients with chronic rejection and to charactererize spectral changes by pathology. Patients and methods: Sixty-six liver transplant recipients (18 with chronic rejection and 48 with normal graft function) and 38 controls (23 healthy volunteers and fifteen patients with biliary duct stricture) were studied with in vivo P-MRS. All the data and peak values were calibrated and calculated by the software of spectroscopy analysis GE, and the pH values were calculated by the Malloy's formula, then the peak area ratios and altitudes of metabolites relative to adenosine triphosphate (β-ATP)and phosphate (Pi) were measured. Results: (a) The peak area ratios and altitudes of PME and PDE in biliary duct stricture group and chronic rejection group were higher than those of healthy volunteer group and normal graft function group. Patients with chronic rejection had significant differences in the peak area ratios of PME: β-ATP ( P < 0.05) and PDE: β-ATP ( P < 0.05) and in the altitudes of PME: β-ATP ( P < 0.05) as compared with the other groups. (b) The ratios of β-ATP/Pi decreased in biliary duct stricture group, while they increased in chronic rejection group. There was no difference between the four groups. There were similar changes in the ratios of PME/Pi, but there was significant difference between the chronic rejection group and the other three groups. (c) pH values increased in biliary duct stricture group and chronic rejection group, though the difference was not significant with the healthy control group. (d) Histological specimens showed focal loss of hepatocytes, degeneration, and hepatocytic atrophy. Conclusions: P-MRS imaging is valuable in detecting the metabolism of the liver after transplantation, and suggests that further investigation of alterations in the phospholipid metabolism may be a useful future direction of research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water balance mechanisms have been investigated in desert Drosophila species of the subgenus Drosophila from North America, but changes in mesic species of subgenus Drosophila from other continents have received lesser attention. We found divergent strategies for coping with desiccation stress in two species of immigrans group- D. immigrans and D. nasuta. In contrast to clinal variation for body melanization in D. immigrans, cuticular lipid mass showed a positive cline in D. nasuta across a latitudinal transect (10°46′-31°43′N). Based on isofemale lines variability, body melanization showed positive correlation with desiccation resistance in D. immigrans but not in D. nasuta. The use of organic solvents has supported water proofing role of cuticular lipids in D. nasuta but not in D. immigrans. A comparative analysis of water budget of these two species showed that higher water content, reduced rate of water loss and greater dehydration tolerance confer higher desiccation resistance in D. immigrans while the reduced rate of water loss is the only possible mechanism to enhance desiccation tolerance in D. nasuta. We found that carbohydrates act as metabolic fuel during desiccation stress in both the species, whereas their rates of utilization differ significantly between these two species. Further, acclimation to dehydration stress improved desiccation resistance due to increase in the level of carbohydrates in D. immigrans but not in D. nasuta. Thus, populations of D. immigrans and D. nasuta have evolved different water balance mechanisms under shared environmental conditions. Multiple measures of desiccation resistance in D. immigrans but reduction in water loss in D. nasuta are consistent with their different levels of adaptive responses to wet and dry conditions on the Indian subcontinent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Storage of energy metabolites has been investigated in different sets of laboratory selected desiccation or starvation resistant lines but few studies have examined such changes in wild-caught populations of Drosophila melanogaster. In contrast to parallel selection of desiccation and starvation tolerance under laboratory selection experiments, opposite clines were observed in wild populations of D. melanogaster. If resistance to desiccation and starvation occurs in opposite directions under field conditions, we may expect a trade-off for energy metabolites but such correlated changes are largely unknown. We tested whether there is a trade-off for storage as well as actual utilization of carbohydrates (trehalose and glycogen), lipids and proteins in D. melanogaster populations collected from different altitudes (512–2500m). For desiccation resistance, darker flies (>50% body melanization) store more body water content and endure greater loss of water (higher dehydration tolerance) as compared to lighter flies (<30% body melanization). Based on within population analysis, we found evidence for coadapted phenotypes i.e. darker flies store and actually utilize more carbohydrates to confer greater desiccation resistance. In contrast, higher starvation resistance in lighter flies is associated with storage and actual utilization of greater lipid amount. However, darker and lighter flies did not vary in the rate of utilization of carbohydrates under desiccation stress; and of lipids under starvation stress. Thus, we did not find support for the hypothesis that a lower rate of utilization of energy metabolites may contribute to greater stress resistance. Further, for increased desiccation resistance of darker flies, about two-third of total energy budget is provided by carbohydrates. By contrast, lighter flies derive about 66% of total energy content from lipids which sustain higher starvation tolerance. Our results support evolutionary trade-off for storage as well as utilization of energy metabolites for desiccation versus starvation resistance in D. melanogaster. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In D. melanogaster, resistance to starvation and desiccation vary in opposite directions across a geographical gradient in India but there is lack of such clinal variation on other continents. However, it is not clear whether these resistance traits or other correlated traits are the target of natural selection. For resistance to starvation or desiccation in D. melanogaster, we tested the hypothesis whether body color phenotypes and energy metabolites show correlated selection response. Our results are interesting in several respects. First, based on within population analysis, assorted darker and lighter flies from a given population showed that darker flies store higher amount of trehalose and confer greater desiccation resistance as compared with lighter flies. By contrast, lighter flies store higher lipids content and confer increased starvation tolerance. Thus, there is a trade-off for energy metabolites as well as body color phenotypes for starvation and desiccation stress. Further, trait associations within populations reflect similar patterns in geographical populations. Second, we found opposite clines for trehalose and body lipids. Third, coadapated phenotypes have evolved under contrasting climatic conditions i.e. drier and colder northern localities select darker flies with higher trehalose as well as desiccation resistance while hot and humid localities favor lighter flies with higher lipids level and greater starvation tolerance. Thus, the evolution of coadapated phenotypes associated with starvation and desiccation resistance might have resulted due to specific ecological conditions i.e. humidity changes on the Indian subcontinent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The way energy resources are used under variable environmental conditions lies at the heart of our understanding of resource management and opportunism in many organisms. Here we sought to determine how a time-limited, synovigenic and polyphagous insect with a high reproductive-potential (Anastrepha ludens), copes behaviourally and metabolically with environmental unpredictability represented by constant and variable regimes of host availability and variation in food quality. We hypothesized that an adaptive response to a windfall of nutritious food would be the rapid accumulation of energy metabolites (whole body lipids, glycogen and proteins) in the female. We also studied patterns of oogenesis as an indicator of egg-reabsorption under stressful environmental conditions. As predicted, patterns of energy metabolites were mainly driven by the quality and temporal pattern of food availability. In contrast, patterns of host availability had a lower impact upon metabolites. When given constant access to high quality nutrients, after an initial increase early in life, whole body lipids and glycogen were regulated downward to a steady-state level and somatic protein levels did not vary. In contrast, when food uncertainty was introduced, whole body lipid, glycogen and protein oscillated sharply with peaks associated with pulses of high-quality food. Production of eggs was highest when offered continuous access to hosts and high quality food. Importantly, females fully recovered their reproductive capacity when fruit became available following a period of host deprivation. With no evidence of egg resorption and high levels of egg dumping, it appears that egg dumping may favour the continuous production of eggs such that the female’s reproductive tissues are ready to respond to rapid changes in the availability of hosts. Our results exemplify the capacity of insects to maximize reproduction under variable and stressful environmental conditions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The present study has examined the anticonvulsant and neuroprotective effect of 2R,4R-4-aminopyrrolidine-2,4-dicarboxylate (2R,4R-APDC), a selective agonist for group II metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) when given 10–15 min after the onset of seizures induced in 12-day-old rats by bilateral icv infusion of dl-homocysteic acid (dl-HCA, 600 nmol/side). For biochemical analyses, rat pups were sacrificed during generalized clonic–tonic seizures, ∼45–50 min after infusion of dl-HCA. Comparable time intervals were used for sacrificing the animals which received 2R,4R-APDC (0.05 nmol/side) or saline. The severity of seizures was influenced only slightly when the agonist was given after the onset of seizures, as evaluated both from the behavioral symptoms and from EEG recordings. A tendency to lower number and a shorter duration of seizures was outlined in animals posttreated with 2R,4R-APDC, but the differences did not reach the level of statistical significance. Cortical energy metabolite changes which normally accompany seizures in immature rats (large decrease of glucose and glycogen and a marked rise of lactate) were ameliorated only partially. The neuroprotective effect of 2R,4R-APDC was evaluated after 24 h and 6 days of survival following dl-HCA-induced seizures. Massive neuronal degeneration in many brain regions, mainly in the hippocampus and thalamus, following infusion of dl-HCA alone was only partially attenuated after 2R,4R-APDC posttreatment. The present findings clearly indicate that both anticonvulsant and neuroprotective effect of 2R,4R-APDC against dl-HCA-induced seizures is substantially diminished when the agonist is given after the onset of seizures as compared with its efficacy after the pretreatment (Exp.Neurol.192, 420–436, 2005). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In a research programme aiming at characterising the energy value of ruminant diets by the net portal energy fluxes in ruminants, the present work focused on the relationships between intakes of both dry matter (DMI) and digestible organic matter (DOMI) and the portal blood flow and the net portal fluxes of oxygen (O2), volatile fatty acids, β-hydroxybutyrate, glucose and lactate in sheep and growing cattle. Response equations were generated, expressed as a function of liveweight (LW), using meta-analysis on published that were compiled into the FLORA (FLux of nutrients through the Organs and tissues of Ruminant Animals) database and that investigated changes in intake at constant dietary metabolisable energy (ME) contents within experimental groups. The experimental groups in the selected data set were predominantly adult sheep (n =17), with nine experimental groups on growing cattle and only one experimental group on lactating dairy cows. Intake range was larger in sheep than in growing cattle (0–35g/d/kg LW versus 0–23g/d/kg LW, respectively), and the types of diets fed also differed, with sheep predominantly being fed forage-rich diets (60% of experimental groups). Blood flow and portal O2 consumption showed curvilinear relationships; however the response equations generated for nutrients were best described by linear relationships. With the exception of glucose net portal flux, 70–95% of variation was explained by the models generated. The magnitude of the response equations was largely different between species, and this may also include differences in diets and/or physiological state between the datasets. Both DMI and DOMI were good predictors of the influence of a change in intake level on net portal fluxes of energy metabolites. Subsequent work needs to focus on the influence of diet composition (i.e., dietary ME content). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]