Altered biliary microbial and metabolic profile reveals the crosstalk between NAFLD and cholelithiasis.

BACKGROUND: The relationship between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cholelithiasis is intricate, with alterations in the microenvironment potentially mediating this interplay. Thus, this study aimed to explore the biliary microbiota and metabolites of patients with cholelithiasis and detect changes induced by comorbid NAFLD. METHODS: In this study, 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metabolome analysis were performed on biliary samples collected from 35 subjects. Then, patients were stratified into two groups: the comorbidity group (n = 18), consisting of cholelithiasis patients with NAFLD, and the non-comorbidity group (n = 17), comprising cholelithiasis patients without NAFLD. RESULTS: Comorbid NAFLD did not significantly increase α-diversity but affected ß-diversity. A statistically significant difference was observed in the abundance of biliary metabolites between the two groups. Specifically, differences in the abundance of 4 phyla, 19 genera, and 28 metabolites were significant between the two groups. Correlation analysis demonstrated positive associations among 12α-hydroxylated bile acid levels, Pyramidobacter and Fusobacterium abundance, AST levels, and the fibrosis-4 index (p < 0.05, r > 0.3), all of which were increased in patients with cholelithiasis and comorbid NAFLD. CONCLUSIONS: The relationship between cholelithiasis and NAFLD influences the biliary microbial and metabolic profile, creating a detrimental microenvironment that promotes the disease progression.

Abnormal blood pressure and pediatric obesity phenotype: Red flags for clinical practice.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: systolic and diastolic blood pressure values identify different subtypes of Primary Hypertension. In pediatric age, hypertension is often related to obesity. Characterization of an individual's Blood Pressure (BP) status needs multiple measurements in the course of time, but this is rarely the case, principally in everyday pediatrics. Thus, the finding of abnormal BP values even in a single routine check visit should need a special attention. The aim of this study was to evaluate if even a single abnormal measurement could be a marker of metabolic risk, according to clinical and/or metabolic phenotype and subtypes of hypertension in a population of overweight/obese children and adolescents. METHODS AND RESULTS: We reviewed data from 489 overweight-obese children and adolescents. BP values were classified according to American Academy of Pediatrics Guidelines (2017). Considering study design, we used the term "Abnormal" instead of "High" BP. Data on lipid profile, glucose metabolism and ultrasonographic pattern of the liver were recorded. Mean age was 9.4 ± 2.5 years: 76.9% had normal BP values. Children with Abnormal BP harbored more frequently an unfavorable metabolic profile. Children with Abnormal Systolic-Diastolic BP values had higher BMI z-score and Waist to Height ratio (p = 0.022 and p = 0.032). Hepatic Steatosis was detected in 4.5%, 14.8 % and 17.6 % of children with normal, abnormal systolic and abnormal systo-diastolic blood pressure, respectively. (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Identification of abnormal BP subtypes even in a single measurement could be useful for identification of specific clinical-metabolic phenotypes allowing an individual targeted management of obesity-related comorbidities.

Green solutions: evaluating the impact of Chlorella sorokiniana and Anabaena laxa on captan phycoremediation.

This study explores the use of algae for phycoremediation, focusing on how Chlorella sorokiniana and Anabaena laxa detoxify water contaminated with captan, a common fungicide. The efficiency of these species in absorbing captan and the associated biochemical changes were evaluated to assess their potential for environmental protection. Microalgae were exposed to captan concentrations of 15 and 30 mg/L, and various parameters, including captan uptake, chlorophyll (Chl) a, carotenoid levels, and changes in metabolic profiles (soluble carbohydrates, organic acids, amino acids, and fatty acids), were measured. Results showed Anabaena had a higher captan absorption capacity (141.7 µg/g at 15 mg/L and 239.3 µg/g at 30 mg/L) compared to Chlorella (74.43 µg/g and 162 µg/g). Increased captan uptake reduced the growth of both species, as indicated by lower Chl a levels. Both species accumulated osmo-protectants and antioxidants as defense mechanisms, with soluble sugars increasing by 83.49% in Chlorella and 68.87% in Anabaena, and carotenoids increasing by 60.42% and 46.24%, respectively. Principal component analysis revealed distinct species-level responses, with Anabaena showing greater tolerance. The study concludes that both species can effectively remediate captan, with Anabaena being more efficient, indicating their potential for mitigating agrochemical impacts in aquatic environments and promoting sustainable agriculture and water management.

This study uniquely demonstrates the superior capability of Anabaena laxa over Chlorella sorokiniana in remediating captan-contaminated water, highlighting distinct biochemical responses and enhanced tolerance mechanisms. By detailing species-specific metabolic adaptations, it underscores the potential of Anabaena for more effective phycoremediation. This novel insight into the differential resilience of microalgae species offers a promising approach to mitigating agrochemical pollution, advancing sustainable agriculture, and improving water management practices.

Metabolic profile of Charolais young bulls transported over long-distance.

Long-distance transport can cause stress to beef cattle impairing health and growth performances. This study aimed to deepen the knowledge of the effects of long-distance transport on young bulls' metabolic profile to identify reliable blood parameters for monitoring their health and welfare. Eighty Charolais young bulls, transported for 12 hours to the final fattening unit, were weighed and blood sampled at three time intervals: before leaving the commingling centre (day -1), upon arrival at the fattening unit (day 0), and 7 days post-arrival (day 7). These bulls were part of a larger study aimed at testing whether the animals have some benefit from the supplementation of live yeast and selenium through slow-release rumen boluses that were administered to half of them before departure from France ('Yeast' vs 'Control' group). The effect of the supplementation on the parameters considered in this study was included in the statistical analysis to account for the structure of the experimental design. Transport affected the initial body weight of the animals, which dropped on day 0 and it was not fully recovered on day 7. Most plasma traits of protein, energy, hepato-muscle, and mineral profiles were affected by transport. Cortisol was also assessed and peaked at day 0. The footprint of the long-distance transport on bulls' metabolic profile indicated a combination of stress, energy deficit, and muscle damage, with a certain degree of dehydration and liver impairment. Plasma traits measured on day -1 highlighted that stressful conditions and physiological responses of the bulls to recover homeostasis already started during the commingling phase before departure. No effect of supplementation was detected, except for higher selenium plasma level in Yeast bulls at day 7. Among blood parameters, non-esterified fatty acids, total protein, cortisol, glucose, and iron were those responsible for most of the variation in metabolic profile of bulls undergoing long journey. Therefore, these traits might be used as major biomarkers to assess stress in transported beef cattle, helping to identify critical situations for which proper mitigating actions should be taken. The outcomes of this study suggested that preventive measures against transport stress in beef cattle should start at the commingling of the animals in the collection centers, thus before departure.

Metabolic, Mitochondrial, and Inflammatory Effects of Efavirenz, Emtricitabine, and Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate in Asymptomatic Antiretroviral-Naïve People with HIV.

This study aimed to comprehensively assess the metabolic, mitochondrial, and inflammatory effects of first-line efavirenz, emtricitabine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (EFV/FTC/TDF) single-tablet regimen (STR) relative to untreated asymptomatic HIV infection. To this end, we analyzed 29 people with HIV (PWH) treated for at least one year with this regimen vs. 33 antiretroviral-naïve PWH. Excellent therapeutic activity was accompanied by significant alterations in metabolic parameters. The treatment group showed increased plasmatic levels of glucose, total cholesterol and its fractions (LDL and HDL), triglycerides, and hepatic enzymes (GGT, ALP); conversely, bilirubin levels (total and indirect fraction) decreased in the treated cohort. Mitochondrial performance was preserved overall and treatment administration even promoted the recovery of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content depleted by the virus, although this was not accompanied by the recovery in some of their encoded proteins (since cytochrome c oxidase II was significantly decreased). Inflammatory profile (TNFα, IL-6), ameliorated after treatment in accordance with viral reduction and the recovery of TNFα levels correlated to mtDNA cell restoration. Thus, although this regimen causes subclinical metabolic alterations, its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties may be associated with partial improvement in mitochondrial function.

Obesity-Related Complications Including Dysglycemia Based on 1-h Post-Load Plasma Glucose in Children and Adolescents Screened before and after COVID-19 Pandemic.

Childhood obesity, with its metabolic complications, is a problem of public health. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has recommended glucose levels 1 h post oral glucose load (1h-PG) > 155-209 mg/dL as diagnostic for intermediate hyperglycemia (IH), while >209 mg/dL for type 2 diabetes (T2D). The aim of the study was to assess the occurrence of prediabetes, IH, and T2D in children and adolescents with simple obesity according to the criteria of American Diabetes Association (ADA) and of IDF, and the effect of COVID-19 pandemic on these disorders. Analysis included 263 children with simple obesity, screened either in prepandemic (PRE-113 cases) or post-pandemic period (POST-150 cases). All children underwent 2 h OGTT with measurements of glucose and insulin every 0.5 h, lipid profile, and other tests; indices if insulin resistance (IR): HOMA, QUICKI, Matsuda index, AUC (glu/ins) were calculated. The incidence of T2D, prediabetes, and IH was higher in POST with respect to PRE, with significant differences in the indices of IR, except for HOMA. Significant differences were observed in the assessed parameters of glucose metabolism among the groups with T2D, prediabetes, IH, and normal glucose tolerance (NGT), with some similarities between IH (based on 1h-PG) and prediabetes. Increased frequency of dysglycemia among children and adolescents with simple obesity is observed after COVID-19 pandemic. Metabolic profile of patients with IH at 1h-PG is "intermediate" between NGT and prediabetes.

BAR502/fibrate conjugates: synthesis, biological evaluation and metabolic profile.

BAR502, a bile acid analogue, is active as dual FXR/GPBAR1 agonist and represents a promising lead for the treatment of cholestasis and NASH. In this paper we report the synthesis and the biological evaluation of a library of hybrid compounds prepared by combining, through high-yield condensation reaction, some fibrates with BAR502.The activity of the new conjugates was evaluated towards FXR, GPBAR1 and PPARα receptors, employing transactivation or cofactor recruitment assays. Compound 1 resulted as the most promising of the series and was subjected to further pharmacological investigation, together with stability evaluation and cell permeation assessment. We have proved by LCMS analysis that compound 1 is hydrolyzed in mice releasing clofibric acid and BAR505, the oxidized metabolite of BAR502, endowed with retained dual FXR/GPBAR1 activity.

Metabolomics-based search for lung cancer markers among patients with different smoking status.

Tobacco smoking is the main etiological factor of lung cancer (LC), which can also cause metabolome disruption. This study aimed to investigate whether the observed metabolic shift in LC patients was also associated with their smoking status. Untargeted metabolomics profiling was applied for the initial screening of changes in serum metabolic profile between LC and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients, selected as a non-cancer group. Differences in metabolite profiles between current and former smokers were also tested. Then, targeted metabolomics methods were applied to verify and validate the proposed LC biomarkers. For untargeted metabolomics, a single extraction-dual separation workflow was applied. The samples were analyzed using a liquid chromatograph-high resolution quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometer. Next, the selected metabolites were quantified using liquid chromatography-triple-quadrupole mass spectrometry. The acquired data confirmed that patients' stratification based on smoking status impacted the discriminating ability of the identified LC marker candidates. Analyzing a validation set of samples enabled us to determine if the putative LC markers were truly robust. It demonstrated significant differences in the case of four metabolites: allantoin, glutamic acid, succinic acid, and sphingosine-1-phosphate. Our research showed that studying the influence of strong environmental factors, such as tobacco smoking, should be considered in cancer marker research since it reduces the risk of false positives and improves understanding of the metabolite shifts in cancer patients.

Metabolic activity of gut microbial enrichment cultures from different marine species and their transformation abilities to plastic additives.

The role of the gut microbiota in host physiology has been previously elucidated for some marine organisms, but little information is available on their metabolic activity involved in transformation of environmental pollutants. This study assessed the metabolic profiles of the gut microbial cultures from grouper (Epinephelus coioides), green mussel (Perna viridis) and giant tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon) and investigated their transformation mechanisms to typical plastic additives. Community-level physiological profiling analysis confirmed the utilization profiles of the microbial cultures including carbon sources of carbohydrates, amines, carboxylic acids, phenolic compounds, polymers and amino acids, and the plastic additives of organophosphate flame retardants, tetrabromobisphenol A derivates and bisphenols. Using in vitro incubation, triphenyl phosphate (TPHP) was found to be rapidly metabolized into diphenyl phosphate by the gut microbiota as a representative ester-containing plastic additive, whereas the transformation of BPA (a representative phenol) was relatively slower. Interestingly, all three kinds of microbial cultures efficiently transformed the hepatic metabolite of BPA (BPA-G) back to BPA, thereby increasing its bioavailability in the body. The specific enzyme analysis confirmed the ability of the gut microbiota to perform the metabolic reactions. The results of 16S rRNA sequencing and network analysis revealed that the genera Escherichia-Shigella, Citrobacter, and Anaerospora were functional microbes, and their collaboration with fermentative microbes played pivotal roles in the transformation of the plastic additives. The structure-specific transformations by the gut microbiota and their distinct bioavailability deserve more attention in the future.

Study on Cytochrome P450 Metabolic Profile of Paclitaxel on Rats using QTOF-MS.

BACKGROUND: Paclitaxel (PTX) is a key drug used for chemotherapy for various cancers. The hy-droxylation metabolites of paclitaxel are different between humans and rats. Currently, there is little infor-mation available on the metabolic profiles of CYP450 enzymes in rats. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the dynamic metabolic profiles of PTX and its metabolites in rats and in vitro. METHODS: Ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrome-try (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS) and LC-MS/MS were applied to qualitative and quantitative analysis of PTX and its metabolites in rats' liver microsomes and recombinant enzyme CYP3A1/3A2. Ten specific inhibitors [NF (CYP1A1), FFL (CYP1A2), MOP (CYP2A6), OND (CYP2B6), QCT (CYP2C8), SFP (CYP2C9), NKT (CYP2C19), QND (CYP2D6), MPZ (CYP2E1) and KTZ (CYP3A4)] were used to identify the metabolic pathway in vitro. RESULTS: Four main hydroxylated metabolites of PTX were identified. Among them, 3'-p-OH PTX and 2-OH PTX were monohydroxylated metabolites identified in rats and liver microsome samples, and 6α-2-di-OH PTX and 6α-5"-di-OH PTX were dihydroxylated metabolites identified in rats. CYP3A recombinant enzyme studies showed that the CYP3A1/3A2 in rat liver microsomes was mainly responsible for metabolizing PTX into 3'-p-OH-PTX and 2-OH-PTX. However, 6α-OH PTX was not detected in rat plasma and liver microsome samples. CONCLUSION: The results indicated that the CYP3A1/3A2 enzyme, metabolizing PTX into 3'-p-OH-PTX and 2-OH-PTX, is responsible for the metabolic of PTX in rats. The CYP2C8 metabolite 6α-OH PTX in humans was not detected in rat plasma in this study, which might account for the interspecies metabolic differences between rats and humans. This study will provide evidence for drug-drug interaction research in rats.

Potential relationships between apelin and metabolic-associated indices in transition dairy cows.

Metabolic disorders pose significant challenges in transition dairy cows. Numerous parameters have been investigated in this context, and apelin has recently emerged as a potential metabolic indicator. Accordingly, this study aimed to assess the associations between this hormone and other metabolic parameters. Twenty-two adult Holstein-Friesian dairy cows, 21 days before their expected calving date, were selected for blood sampling and serum separation at four time points: 21 and 10 days before calving and 10 and 21 days after parturition. Serum concentrations of apelin, leptin, insulin, cortisol, T3, T4, non-esterified fatty acids, glucose, total protein, albumin, globulin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase, triglycerides, cholesterol, high, low and very low-density lipoproteins, total, direct and indirect bilirubin were measured in these samples. Surrogate indices for insulin resistance, body condition score, and milk production were also evaluated. Throughout the transition period, a significant increase in apelin levels was observed. Various models were employed to identify associations between apelin and the studied metabolic parameters. Notably, significant correlations between apelin and Leptin, Insulin, Cortisol, T3, T4, NEFA, Cholesterol, LDL, VLDL, Total Protein, Albumin, Globulin, Total Bilirubin, Direct Bilirubin and Indirect Bilirubin were observed, with some being immediate while others developed over time. These findings indicate a mutual influence between apelin and specific metabolic indices. Changes in any component of the metabolic profile at one stage can lead to alterations in apelin levels in subsequent stages. The correlations uncovered between apelin and other components of the metabolic profile in transitioning dairy cows offer valuable insights, contributing to a better understanding of the potential effects of apelin on the studied indicators and vice versa.

Inter-facility characterization of bacteria in seafood processing plants: Exploring potential reservoirs of spoilage organisms and the resistome.

A study was conducted in fish processing facilities to investigate the microbial composition, microbial metabolic potential, and distribution of antibiotic resistance genes. Whole metagenomic sequencing was used to analyze microbial communities from different processing rooms, operators and fish products. Taxonomic analyses identified the genera Pseudomonas and Psychrobacter as the most prevalent bacteria. A Principal Component Analysis revealed a distinct separation between fish product and environmental samples, as well as differences between fish product samples from companies processing either Gadidae or Salmonidae fish. Some particular bacterial genera and species were associated with specific processing rooms and operators. Metabolic analysis of metagenome assembled genomes demonstrated variations in microbiota metabolic profiles of microbiota across rooms and fish products. The study also examined the presence of antibiotic-resistance genes in fish processing environments, contributing to the understanding of microbial dynamics, metabolic potential, and implications for fish spoilage.

Exploring the diversity and functional profile of microbial communities of Brazilian soils with high salinity and oil contamination.

Environmental pollution associated with the petroleum industry is a major problem worldwide. Microbial degradation is extremely important whether in the extractive process or in bioremediation of contaminants. Assessing the local microbiota and its potential for degradation is crucial for implementing effective bioremediation strategies. Herein, contaminated soil samples of onshore oil fields from a semiarid region in the Northeast of Brazil were investigated using metagenomics and metataxonomics. These soils exhibited hydrocarbon contamination and high salinity indices, while a control sample was collected from an uncontaminated area. The shotgun analysis revealed the predominance of Actinomycetota and Pseudomonadota, while 16S rRNA gene amplicon analysis of the samples showed Actinomycetota, Bacillota, and Pseudomonadota as the most abundant. The Archaea domain phylotypes were assigned to Thermoproteota and Methanobacteriota. Functional analysis and metabolic profile of the soil microbiomes exhibited a broader metabolic repertoire in the uncontaminated soil, while degradation pathways and surfactant biosynthesis presented higher values in the contaminated soils, where degradation pathways of xenobiotic and aromatic compounds were also present. Biosurfactant synthetic pathways were abundant, with predominance of lipopeptides. The present work uncovers several microbial drivers of oil degradation and mechanisms of adaptation to high salinity, which are pivotal traits for sustainable soil recovery strategies.

Peripartal changes of metabolic and hormonal parameters in Romanian spotted cows and their relation with retained fetal membranes.

This clinical study investigates various metabolic and physiological parameters in dairy cows during puerperium. Retained fetal membranes (RFM) is a significant postpartum complication that can affect the overall health, fertility and productivity of dairy cattle. The research focuses on changes in total proteins, albumin, glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), cortisol, insulin, and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels among cows experiencing normal post-partum period (NP) and those with RFM. A significant increase in protein levels was noted during the post-partum period in the RFM group, indicating physiological impacts of RFM at this stage. Albumin levels showed significant differences, highlighting a significant biological effect of RFM in the post-partum period. Glucose levels varied significantly in the weeks leading to parturition, suggesting altered metabolic states in cows that suffered RFM. Triglyceride and cholesterol levels were significantly higher during the antepartum period in the group that experienced reproductive failure, indicating substantial alterations in lipid metabolism which could herald the apparition of RFM. AST and ALT levels provided insights into cellular stress and liver function, with significant increases noted around parturition which could be attributed to the substantial physiological strain of parturition itself. Cortisol levels were higher in RFM cows 2 weeks before parturition, which could indicate an increasing stress response or a physiological preparation for the upcoming labor, and may be more pronounced in cows predisposed to RFM. Insulin levels decreased significantly before and at parturition in RFM cows, indicating a strong energy deficit. IGF-1 levels decreased significantly in RFM cows after parturition. Significant changes in metabolic parameters, such as glucose, triglycerides, and cholesterol levels, delineate the pronounced metabolic challenges faced by cows with RFM. The study elucidates that while some variations are noted as parturition approaches, the most substantial impacts attributable to RFM on metabolic and physiological parameters occur after parturition. These changes may have implications for the health, recovery, and productivity of cows postpartum, suggesting the need for targeted management strategies to mitigate the effects of RFM.

Metabolic effects and cardiovascular disease risks of antiviral treatments in patients with chronic hepatitis B.

Different antiviral treatments for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) have been known to have different metabolic effects. This study aimed to reveal whether tenofovir alafenamide (TAF)-induced dyslipidemia and its associated outcomes are significant. This study utilized 15-year historical cohort including patients with CHB in Korea and consisted of two parts: the single-antiviral and switch-antiviral cohorts. In the single-antiviral cohort, patients were divided into four groups (entecavir [ETV]-only, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate [TDF]-only, TAF-only, and non-antiviral). Propensity score matching (PSM) and linear regression model were sequentially applied to compare metabolic profiles and estimated atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risks longitudinally. In the switch-antiviral cohort, pairwise analyses were conducted in patients who switched NAs to TAF or from TAF. In the single-antiviral cohort, body weight and statin use showed significant differences between groups before PSM, but well-balanced after PSM. Changes in total cholesterol were significantly different between groups (-2.57 mg/dL/year in the TDF-only group and +2.88 mg/dL/year in the TAF-only group; p = 0.002 and p = 0.02, respectively). In the TDF-only group, HDL cholesterol decreased as well (-0.55 mg/dL/year; p < 0.001). The TAF-only group had the greatest increase in ASCVD risk, followed by the TDF-only group and the non-antiviral group. In the switch-antiviral cohort, patients who switched from TDF to TAF had a higher total cholesterol after switching (+9.4 mg/dL/year) than before switching (-1.0 mg/dL/year; p = 0.047). Sensitivity analysis on data with an observation period set to a maximum of 3 years for NA treatment showed consistent results on total cholesterol (-2.96 mg/dL/year in the TDF-only group and +3.09 mg/dL/year in the TAF-only group; p = 0.001 and p = 0.005, respectively). Another sensitivity analysis conducted on statin-treated patients revealed no significant change in cholesterol and ASCVD risk. TAF was associated with increased total cholesterol, whereas TDF was associated with decreased total and HDL cholesterol. Both TAF and TDF were associated with increased ASCVD risks, and statin use might mitigate these risks.

Analytical and Clinical Interference of Sample Hemolysis in Evaluating Blood Biochemical and Endocrine Parameters in Cows.

Hemolysis is a common cause of errors in laboratory tests as it affects blood parameters and leads to a positive or negative bias. This study aims to examine the relationship between the level of hemolysis (expressed as cell-free hemoglobin concentration, g/L) and the variability of metabolic and endocrine parameters and to determine the threshold level of hemolysis that causes an analytically and clinically significant bias for the twenty most frequently examined blood parameters in cows. Paired blood samples of 10 mL each were obtained from 30 cows. One was subjected to mechanical trauma and plasma was extracted directly from the other. Hemolyzed and non-hemolyzed samples from the same animal were mixed to obtain final samples with cell-free hemoglobin concentrations of 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 g/L. Metabolic and endocrine parameters were measured in the samples and their deviation and the linear equation between the level of hemolysis and the deviation were determined. The following threshold values of hemolysis were determined, which correspond to the acceptable analytical (lower value) and clinical (upper value) levels of parameter variability: BHB 0.96 and 4.81; NEFA 0.39 and 3.31; GLU 0.38 and 3.90; ALB 1.12 and 6.11; TPROT 1.40 and 6.80; UREA 6.62 and 20.1; TBIL 0.75 and 5.65; AST 0.11 and 2.18; GGT 1.71 and 8.90, LDH 0.01 and 0.11, ALP 0.97 and 2.95; TGC 1.56 and 15.5; CHOL 1.29 and 8.56; Ca 5.68 and 25.7; P 0.57 and 8.43; Mg 1.10 and 8.47; INS 1.15 and 3.89; T3 8.19 and 15.6; T4 8.97 and 18.5; and CORT 2.78 and 11.22 g/L cell-free hemoglobin. Three decision levels are available for each metabolic and endocrine parameter: if hemolysis is below the lower (analytical) threshold value, results can be reported without restriction; if hemolysis is between the lower and upper thresholds, the results can be issued with guidance in the form of corrective linear equations; and if hemolysis is above the upper (clinical) threshold, the results and sample must be discarded. This method contributes to an optimal approach to hemolysis interference with metabolic profile parameters in blood samples from cows.

Variations of blood metabolites in single- and multiple-bearing Ossimi ewes during the transition period.

Evaluation of the metabolic profile indices allows early detection and treatment of various metabolic disorders during the transition period in ewes. This study aimed to determine the variations in the blood metabolites around lambing in Ossimi ewes. The blood metabolites were investigated in ewes with single (n = 27) and multiple (n = 9) lambs at 3- and 1-week pre-lambing and 3-week post-lambing. The plasma concentrations of glucose were higher in single-bearing ewes than those in multiple-bearing ewes (p < .05), moreover, its lowest value was measured at 1-week prepartum in both groups. Throughout the study period, the serum concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) were significantly increased in ewes with multiple lambs compared to ewes with single lambs (p < .05), and the highest value was found at 1-week before parturition in both groups. In addition, the serum level of beta-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA) was higher at 3-week postpartum, and it was significantly increased in multiple-bearing ewes than that in single-bearing ones (p < .05) at 3-week pre-lambing. In both groups, the lowest values of total proteins were determined 1-week before lambing, and its concentrations, at 3- and 1-week prepartum, were higher in ewes with single lambs than those with multiple lambs (p < .05). In contrast, the serum concentrations of albumin were significantly lowered 1-week postpartum (p < .05), and without significant differences between both groups (p > .05). The serum activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) were significantly increased at 1-week after parturition in both groups (p < .05). Furthermore, the serum activities of AST were higher in multiple-bearing ewes than those in single-bearing ones at 3-week pre-lambing and 3-week post-lambing (p < .05). Variable positive and negative correlations were determined among the blood metabolites. In conclusion, physiological adaptations are associated with the fluctuation of the blood metabolites around lambing. The higher the number of foetuses the higher the metabolic variations in Ossimi ewes. Therefore, regular metabolic profiling for health monitoring may be necessary to avoid disease development during the transition period.

Clinico-Metabolic Profile and Follow-Up of Familial Cases Compared to Sporadic Cases in a Lyon Series of Type 1 Diabetic Children.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to describe the clinical, biochemical, therapeutic, and progressive characteristics of children with familial type 1 diabetes (T1D) compared to those with non-familial T1D. Compare within the first group, the phenotype of type 1 diabetics inherited from the father with those inherited from the mother. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study lasting 10 years at the L'hôpital Femme Mère Enfant (Woman-Mother-Child Hospital) in Lyon, France. Cases were any child diagnosed with T1D for at least 12 months who had a parent with T1D. Each case was matched with a T1D control without a family history of T1D, of the same age, same sex and same year of discovery. Cases group was divided into two subgroups according to the sex of the parent with T1D. RESULTS: A total of 43 children had a TD1 parent (family group) of whom 27 cases were the father. Forty four T1D children without any T1D parent were matched (sporadic group). The family group had consulted earlier (p < 0.001), were less in initial diabetic ketoacidosis (p = 0.016), and had a lower HbA1C level lower (p < 0.001) and lower initial insulin requirements (p < 0.001). During follow-up, it was noted that the evolution of Hb1AC, insulin requirements, and chronic complications were similar in familial and non-familial cases (p = 0.943, p = 0.450, p = 0.664, respectively). The patients in the T1D mother group seemed better balanced than those of the T1D father with an average HbA1C at 10 years of follow-up of 7.82% in the maternal group compared to 9.10% in the paternal group (p = 0.021). CONCLUSION: This study shows that familial T1D is a protective factor against the initial severity of T1D in offspring. Paternal T1D presents a more severe initial and progressive clinico-biological character than T1D inherited from the mother. However, during follow-up, other psycho-environmental factors could modify this observation.

Assessment of Vitamin Concentrations in Patients with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and Their Relationships with Thyroid Function, Biochemical Status, and Anthropometric Parameters-A Preliminary Study.

Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is the leading cause of hypothyroidism, affecting mainly the female population. Many patients with HT have metabolic disorders and nutritional deficiencies. The aim of this study was to evaluate vitamin D, A, E, B2, and B6 concentrations, thyroid function, metabolic profile, and anthropometric parameters of patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis. In 81 female patients with HT (study group), vitamin A and B2 concentrations were significantly lower than in 34 healthy women (control group). No differences were noted in vitamin D, E, and B6 concentrations between groups. Moreover, HT patients had similar anthropometric parameters, lipid profiles, and glucose and insulin concentrations compared to controls. This study showed some relationships between vitamin concentrations and anthropometric or biochemical profiles in HT patients. Among others, in the HT group, the concentration of vitamin D was positively correlated with the level of HDL and negatively correlated with BMI, total fat mass, and insulin level, which influence cardiovascular risk. The results indicate that patients with HT should be routinely tested for vitamin concentrations to prevent nutritional deficiencies. Further studies are also needed on the role of vitamins in the development and progression of HT and the presence of metabolic complications in this population.

Phenolic and Metabolic Profiles, Antioxidant Activities, Glycemic Control, and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Three Thai Papaya Cultivar Leaves.

This study thoroughly examined the proximate composition, bioactive composition, and in vitro biological activities of three different cultivars of papaya leaf extracts (PLEs) as potential functional ingredients and nutraceuticals. The dark green leaves of three papaya cultivars, Khaek Dam (KD), Holland (H), and Thai Local (L), were used in this study. The protein content of the leaves ranged from 25.96 to 32.18%, the fat content ranged from 7.34 to 11.66%, the carbohydrate content ranged from 5.80 to 17.91%, the moisture content ranged from 6.02 to 6.49%, the ash content ranged from 11.23 to 12.40%, and the fiber content ranged from 23.24 to 38.48%. The L cultivar possessed significantly higher protein and carbohydrate contents, whereas the H cultivar had the highest ash content (p < 0.05). The total phenolic content (TPC) ranged from 113.94 to 173.69 mg GAE/g extract, with the KD cultivar having the highest TPC (p < 0.05). Several metabolic compounds such as phenolic compounds (particularly kaempferol, isorhamnetin, quercetin, ferulic acid, isoferulic acid, salicylic acid, sinapic acid, syringic acid, and vanillin), terpenoids (such as eucalyptol), glycosides, and indole were identified. The PLE from the KD cultivar had the highest levels of DPPH• inhibition, metal chelation, reducing power, and antidiabetic activity (p < 0.05), suggesting superior biological activity. All three PLEs reduced the proliferation of RAW 264.7 cells in a dose-dependent manner with low nitric oxide formation. These results indicate that the papaya leaf, particularly from the KD cultivar, could be a promising source of functional food ingredients.