Lipid Fractions Research Articles

Genetic association analyses highlight apolipoprotein B as a determinant of chronic kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes

Blood lipid levels were associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), but the genetic basis and causal nature remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationships of lipids and their fractions with CKD in patients with T2D. Our prospective analysis involved 8,607 White participants with T2D but no CKD at baseline from the UK Biobank. Five common lipid traits were included as exposures. Weighted genetic risk scores (GRSs) for these lipid traits were developed. The causal associations between lipid traits, as well as lipid fractions, and CKD were explored using linear or nonlinear Mendelian randomization (MR). The 10-year predicted probabilities of CKD were evaluated via integrating MR and Cox models. Higher GRS of apolipoprotein B (ApoB) was associated with an increased CKD risk (HR[95 % CI]:1.07[1.02,1.13] per SD;P = 0.008) after adjusting for potential confounders. Linear MR indicated a positive association between genetically predicted ApoB levels and CKD (HR[95 % CI]:1.53[1.12,2.09];P = 0.008), but no evidence of associations was found between other lipid traits and CKD in T2D. Regarding 12 ApoB-contained lipid fractions, a significant causal association was found between medium very-low-density lipoprotein particles and CKD (HR[95 % CI]:1.16[1.02,1.32];P = 0.020). Nonlinear MR did not support nonlinearity in these causal associations. The 10-year probability curve showed that ApoB levels was positively associated with the risk of CKD in patients with T2D. Lower ApoB levels were causally associated with a reduced risk of CKD in patients with T2D, positioning ApoB as a potential therapeutic target for CKD prevention in this population.

Tick salivary proteome and lipidome with low glycan content correlate with allergic type reactions in the zebrafish model

Ticks, as hematophagous ectoparasites, can manipulate host immune and metabolic processes, causing tick-borne allergies such as α-Gal syndrome (AGS). Glycolipids with bound galactose-alpha-1–3-galactose (α-Gal) are potential allergenic molecules associated with AGS. Nevertheless, proteins and lipids lacking α-Gal modifications may contribute to tick salivary allergies and be linked to AGS. In this study, we characterized the effect of deglycosylated tick salivary proteins without lipids on treated zebrafish fed with dog food formulated with mammalian (beef, lamb, pork) meat by quantitative proteomics analysis of intestinal samples. The characterization and functional annotations of tick salivary lipids with low representation of glycolipids was conducted using a lipidomics approach. Results showed a significant effect of treatment with saliva and saliva deglycosylated protein fraction on zebrafish abnormal or no feeding (p < 0.005). Treatment with this fraction affected multiple metabolic pathways, defense responses to pathogens and protein metabolism, which correlated with abnormal or no feeding. Lipidomics analysis identified 23 lipid classes with low representation of glycolipids (0.70% of identified lipids). The lipid class with highest representation was phosphatidylcholine (PC; 26.66%) and for glycolipids it corresponded to diacylglycerol (DG; 0.48%). Qualitative analysis of PC antibodies revealed that individuals bitten by ticks were more likely to produce PC-IgG antibodies (p < 0.001). DG levels were significantly higher in tick salivary glands (p < 0.05) compared with tick saliva and salivary fractions. The α-Gal content was higher in tick saliva than in deglycosylated saliva and lipid fractions. These results support a possible role for tick salivary proteins and lipids without α-Gal modifications in AGS.

Risk Factors for Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Wide-Angled Mendelian Randomization Analysis.

We hypothesized that some metabolic factors, lifestyle factors, and socioeconomic factors may have a causal effect on pelvic organ prolapse (POP). We selected instruments from corresponding genome-wide association studies (GWAS), which identified independent single nucleotide polymorphisms strongly associated with 12 potential risk factors. Summary statistics for POP were derived from two GWAS datasets, serving for discovery and replication stage. The primary analysis involved the use of the inverse-variance weighting mendelian randomization (MR) method, with additional sensitivity MR analyses conducted. The univariable mendelian randomization (UVMR) analysis in both the discovery and replication stage provided evidence for significant causal effects between higher waist-to-hip ratio adjusted for body mass index (WHRadjBMI) levels, lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels, and lower educational attainment and higher POP risk, as well as a suggestive positive causal effect between triglycerides and POP. The multivariable mendelian randomization (MVMR)analysis showed that only HDL-C among the three blood lipid fractions could reduce the risk of POP. Mediation analysis indicated that HDL-C may partially mediate the effect of WHRadjBMI on POP risk, and the causal effect between educational attainment and POP may be mediated through WHRadjBMI and HDL-C. Our study's evidence supported a causal relationship between WHRadjBMI, triglycerides, HDL-C, educational attainment, and POP risk. This highlights that clinicians may guide the general female population to control obesity and blood lipid levels to reduce the risk of POP.

Lipid classes and fatty acid composition of Thapsia garganica L. seeds oil

This study focused on characterizing the seed oil of Thapsia garganica (Apiaceae), a medicinal plant native to Laghouat, Algeria, and evaluating its antioxidant properties. Various solvent systems were employed to extract and fractionate the lipid content of T. garganica seeds oil. Chemical indices were determined, and fatty acids methyl esters were analyzed using GC/MS. Tocopherol composition was assessed via HPLC, and antioxidant activity was evaluated using the 2,2-diphényl 1-picrylhydrazyle (DPPH) method. The GC/MS analysis revealed distinct fatty acid profiles across various fractions, highlighting a notable presence of petroselinic acid and higher-than-usual levels of pentadecanoic acid in all fractions. T. garganica oil exhibited richness in tocopherols, particularly with α-tocopherol being the predominant homolog. The antioxidant activity assessment of different lipid fractions indicated potent activity within polar lipids (glycolipids and phospholipids). Furthermore, T. garganica oil was abundant in unsaturated fatty acids, notably petroselinic acid, displaying significant radical scavenging activity in its polar fractions. Keywords: T. garganica, petroselinic acid, pentadecanoic acid, tocopherols, antioxidant activity.

Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids And Adipose Tissue Inflammation: Longitudinal Analysis in the PROMISE Cohort

Abstract Objectives Although preclinical studies have shown a beneficial impact of omega-3 (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on adipose tissue (AT) inflammation, the current literature from human studies is limited. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the longitudinal associations of circulating levels of n-3 PUFAs with biomarkers of AT inflammation. Methods Longitudinal data from participants in the PROMISE cohort (n = 474) were used. AT inflammation was measured using circulating biomarkers at baseline and up to 2 follow-up visits. n-3 PUFAs were measured at baseline in 4 serum lipid fractions. Generalized estimating equations analyses evaluated longitudinal associations between n-3 PUFAs and AT inflammation, adjusting for covariates. Results Fully adjusted generalized estimating equation models indicated that higher baseline proportions of eicosapentaenoic acid, n-3 docosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid in total serum were significantly inversely associated with longitudinal change in soluble CD163 (all P &amp;lt; .05). A significant positive association of n-3 docosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid with longitudinal change in adiponectin (P &amp;lt; .05) was also observed. Generally consistent associations were observed between n-3 PUFAs and soluble CD163 and adiponectin in the four lipid fractions. Conclusion These findings will add to the limited evidence on the potential role n-3 PUFAs have in the prevention and management of AT inflammation in humans and may help inform future interventions targeting chronic inflammation at the level of AT.

Integrated remediation and detoxification of triclocarban-contaminated water using waste-derived biochar-immobilized cells by long-term column experiments

Triclocarban (TCC), an antibacterial agent commonly used in personal care products, is one of the top ten contaminants of emerging concern in various environmental media, including soil and contaminated water in vadose zone. This study aimed to investigate TCC-contaminated water remediation using biochar-immobilized bacterial cells. Pseudomonas fluorescens strain MC46 (MC46), an efficient TCC-degrading isolate, was chosen, whereas agro-industrial carbonized waste as biochar was directly used as a sustainable cell immobilization carrier. According to the long-term TCC removal performance results (160 d), the biochar-immobilized cells consistently exhibited high TCC removal efficiencies (84–97%), whereas the free MC46 removed TCC for 76–94%. At 100 days, the detachment of the MC46 cells from the immobilized cell column was observed. The micro-Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy results indicated that extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) was produced, but polysaccharide and protein fractions were washed out of the column. The lipid fraction of EPS adhered to the biochar, promoting TCC sorption for long-term treatment. The shortening of MC46 cells improved the tolerance of TCC toxicity. The TCC-contaminated water was successfully detoxified by the biochar-immobilized MC46 cells. Overall, the waste-derived biochar-immobilized cell system proposed in this study for the removal of emerging contaminants, including TCC, is efficient, economical, and aligned with the sustainable development concept of value-added utilization of waste.

Study of the lipid fraction of Moroccan and Italian carobs (Ceratonia siliqua L.)

AbstractCarob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) is a characteristic fruit from the Mediterranean area, composed of a hard pulp and numerous seeds that have been unfairly undervalued and underutilized over time. To enhance the Mediterranean's biodiversity and support food production from sustainable resources, the carob has recently received attention for its nutritional value, and it has advantageously served as a healthy ingredient of many food products. Hence, in this study, the composition of the Mediterranean carob was further deepened by investigating its lipid fraction on a dry weight basis in relation to the fruit part (i.e., pulp and seeds) and the geographical origin (i.e., different Moroccan and Italian provinces). On average, lipids of pulp and seeds amounted to 1.71% and 2.46%, respectively. Predominant fatty acids were palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acids. Palmitic and oleic acids were higher in pulp (20.21%–26.50% and 37.63%–44.49%) than seeds (13.93%–17.26% and 31.92%–36.66%), whereas linoleic acid showed an opposite accumulation trend (pulp: 8.32%–15.46%, seeds: 38.19%–43.45%). Among sterols, β‐sitosterol (57.49%–72.47%), Δ‐5‐avenasterol (10.26%–21.27%), and stigmasterol (3.97%–8.11%) accounted for more than 70% of total sterols of pulp, whereas β‐sitosterol alone represented more than 70% of sterols in seeds. Considering tocopherols, γ‐tocopherol was the most abundant isomer both in pulp (10.37–22.78 mg/100 g) and seeds (4.95–22.86 mg/100 g). Carob also resulted in a good source of squalene, which on average was 2.17 mg kg−1 in pulp and 19.07 mg kg−1 in seeds. A principal component analysis pointed out that the study of the lipid fraction of carob can help in discriminating samples based on their Moroccan or Italian origin.Practical Applications: The study provides further insights into the still‐little‐explored lipid fraction of Mediterranean carob and fills a relevant gap in the literature by contributing to a more exhaustive framework of the nutritional and functional value of this fruit. In a wider perspective, it can be of practical help in the formulation of carob‐based products and in the establishment of a more informed market of carob and carob‐based products.

Dysregulation of miR-146a in human milk of mothers having children with autism.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a set of neurobehavioral manifestations that impose poor social interaction and stereotyped repetitive patterns. Several mircoRNA (miRNA) dysregulations underpin ASD pathophysiology via impairing the neurogenic niches. For instance, miR-146a and miR-106 differential expressions are linked to deregulation of ASD-related genes and the severity of clinical symptoms, respectively. Breastfeeding provides newborns with many bioactive compounds that support their neurodevelopment including miRNA. Our pilot study evaluated the expression pattern of miR-106a and miR-146a in human milk (HM) of nursing mothers (n = 36) having autistic children compared to age-matched counterparts (n = 36) with neurotypical children as controls. Under sterile conditions, breast milk samples were collected using manual sucking pumps and centrifuged to separate the fat layer. Total RNA was extracted from the lipid fraction, and the expression profiles of both miR-106a and miR-146a were evaluated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Among the test group, we reported some factors that were previously linked to HM miRNA perturbations: gestational diabetes, hypertension, and cesarean delivery. HM miR-106a showed comparable expression levels in both mother groups (p = 0.8681), whereas HM miR-146a was significantly downregulated in mothers with autistic children compared to controls (p = 0.0399). Alternatively, HM miR-106 levels were positively associated with two ASD clinical parameters: Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) and communication and language domain of Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) (r = 0.6452, p = 0.0003 and r = 0.3958, p = 0.0410, respectively). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of both maternal HM miR-106a and miR-146a showed poor fitness as predictive biomarkers for ASD. Our findings suggest that the miR-146a differential expression in ASD children may originate at infancy during the lactation period. Thus, maternal pre- and postnatal health care is critical to maintain optimal miRNome in breast milk.

Hydrogen isotope fractionation is controlled by CO2 in coccolithophore lipids

Hydrogen isotope ratios (δ2H) represent an important natural tracer of metabolic processes, but quantitative models of processes controlling H-fractionation in aquatic photosynthetic organisms are lacking. Here, we elucidate the underlying physiological controls of 2H/1H fractionation in algal lipids by systematically manipulating temperature, light, and CO2(aq) in continuous cultures of the haptophyte Gephyrocapsa oceanica. We analyze the hydrogen isotope fractionation in alkenones (αalkenone), a class of acyl lipids specific to this species and other haptophyte algae. We find a strong decrease in the αalkenone with increasing CO2(aq) and confirm αalkenone correlates with temperature and light. Based on the known biosynthesis pathways, we develop a cellular model of the δ2H of algal acyl lipids to evaluate processes contributing to these controls on fractionation. Simulations show that longer residence times of NADPH in the chloroplast favor a greater exchange of NADPH with 2H-richer intracellular water, increasing αalkenone. Higher chloroplast CO2(aq) and temperature shorten NADPH residence time by enhancing the carbon fixation and lipid synthesis rates. The inverse correlation of αalkenone to CO2(aq) in our cultures suggests that carbon concentrating mechanisms (CCM) do not achieve a constant saturation of CO2 at the Rubisco site, but rather that chloroplast CO2 varies with external CO2(aq). The pervasive inverse correlation of αalkenone with CO2(aq) in the modern and preindustrial ocean also suggests that natural populations may not attain a constant saturation of Rubisco with the CCM. Rather than reconstructing growth water, αalkenone may be a powerful tool to elucidate the carbon limitation of photosynthesis.

Oxidized Cholesterol Derivatives in Fraction B Prepared from Gulf Catfish (Arius bilineatus, Val.) Skin Regulate Calcium Response and Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs) Formation.

In this study, we present in vitro actions of pure commercial preparations of oxidized and/or dehydrated metabolites of cholesterol (OS) identified in the lipid fraction of Fraction B (FB) prepared from a catfish skin preparation on calcium transients and on the formation of human neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). These investigations are part of an ongoing effort to understand the important roles these compounds play as components of FB when FB is applied to accelerate the healing of wounds and the healing of highly infected non-healing diabetic foot ulcers, without the use of antibiotics. Our aim was to determine potential therapeutic interventions for various disease states. Our results reveal interesting findings, demonstrating specific actions of the individual compounds. Compounds 7α-hydroxy-cholesterol (S3), Cholestane-3,5,6-triol (S5), 5-cholesten-3β-ol-7-one (S8) and Cholesta-3,5 dien-7-one (S10) are inhibitory, while Cholesterol 5β,6β-epoxide (S4) and 5α-cholestane-3,6-dione (S11) activate the response for calcium influx in human neutrophils. A somewhat similar response is observed in dHL60 cell lines, where S3, S5, S7, S8, and cholesta-2,4-diene (S14) inhibit the calcium influx, although S4, S10, and S11 activate the response in this cell line. Furthermore, we observed a relationship between actions against NETosis and calcium transients. Interestingly, relative to the vehicle control, S3, Cholesta-3,5 diene (S9), and S14 appeared to significantly stimulate DNA release (NETosis), while S2, 7α-hydroxy-cholesterol (S6) and cholesta-3,5 dien-7-one (S10) caused lesser stimulation. We provide the IC50 activities for each compound tested in each assay. Calcium influx and NETs formation (NETosis) correlate with diseases exacerbation. These findings offer valuable insights into the potential therapeutic applications of individual OS for various diseases, highlighting their importance in future interventions.

Long-term effects of abomasal infusion of linoleic and linolenic acids on the enrichment of n-6 and n-3 fatty acids into plasma lipid fractions of lactating cows

Our objective was to compare abomasal infusions of linoleic (18:2n-6) and α-linolenic (18:3n-3) acids on the enrichment of n-6 and n-3 fatty acids (FA) into the plasma lipid fractions of lactating dairy cows and evaluate their potential carryover effects in plasma lipid fractions post-infusion. Six rumen-cannulated multiparous Holstein cows (252 ± 33 d in milk) were fed the same diet and assigned to 1 of 2 treatments in a completely randomized design with repeated measures. Treatments were abomasal infusions (67 g/d total FA) of 1) n-6 FA blend (N6) to provide approximately 43 g/d 18:2n-6 and 8 g/d of 18:3n-3; or 2) n-3 FA blend (N3) providing 43 g/d 18:3n-3 and 8 g/d 18:2n-6. Treatments were dissolved in ethanol, and the daily dose for each treatment was divided into 4 equal infusions, occurring every 6 h. The treatment period lasted from d 1 to 20, and the carryover period lasted from d 21 to 40. Results are presented as FA contents within each of the 4 main plasma lipid fractions: cholesterol esters (CE), phospholipids (PL); triglycerides (TG), and plasma nonesterified fatty acids. Concentrations of individual lipid fractions in plasma were not quantified. Plasma CE and PL had the highest content of polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) during both the treatment and carryover periods. In plasma PL, N3 increased the contents of total n-3 FA (134%), 18:3n-3 (267%), and eicosapentaenoic acid (96.3%, 20:5n-3), and decreased total n-6 FA (8.14%) and 18:2n-6 (8.16%) from d 4 to 20 compared with N6. In plasma CE, N3 increased the contents of total n-3 FA (191%) from d 4 to 20, 18:3n-3 from d 2 to 20 (178%), and 20:5n-3 from d 6 to 20 (59.9%), while N3 decreased total n-6 FA from d 4 to 20 (11.2%) and 18:2n-6 from d 2 to 20 (10.5%) compared with N6. In addition, compared with N6, N3 decreased arachidonic acid (20:4n-6) at d 2 (45%) and from d 10 to 20 (14.7%) in PL and tended to decrease 20:4n-6 without interacting with time for CE. Phospholipids were the only lipid fraction with detectable levels of docosahexaenoic acid (22:3n-6) in all samples, but we did not observe differences between treatments. In plasma TG, N3 increased the contents of total n-3 FA (135%) and 18:3n-3 (146%) from d 4 to 20, increased 20:5n-3 from d 12 to 20 (89%), decreased or tended to decrease total n-6 FA content from d 6 and 8 (26.9%), and tended to decrease 18:2n-6 at d 8 compared with N6. A similar pattern was observed for plasma nonesterified fatty acids. We observed positive carryover effects for both N3 and N6 at different degrees in all lipid fractions, with N3 promoting more consistent outcomes and increasing total n-3 FA throughout the carryover period (from d 22 to 40) in both PL (52.8%) and CE (68.6%) compared with N6. It is important to emphasize that the higher magnitude responses observed for n-3 FA are also influenced by the content of n-3 FA being much lower than those of n-6 FA in all lipid fractions. While these data provide important and robust information, future research quantifying changes in concentrations of individual lipid fractions in plasma and the entry and exit rates of specific FA will further enhance our understanding. In conclusion, abomasally infusing N3 and N6 increased the contents of n-3 and n-6 FA, respectively, in all plasma lipid fractions. These responses were more evident in PL and CE. We also observed positive carryover effects in all lipid fractions, where N3 had more consistent outcomes than N6. Our results indicate that dairy cows have a robust mechanism to conserve essential FA, with a pronounced preference for n-3 FA.

Assessment of Skin Autofluorescence and Its Association with Glycated Hemoglobin, Cardiovascular Risk Markers, and Concomitant Chronic Diseases in Children with Type 1 Diabetes.

A total of 348 children with T1D aged 3-18 years and 85 age- and gender-matched control subjects were enrolled. sAF was quantified using an AGE Reader (Diagnoptics BV, The Netherlands). The analysis covered HbA1c, blood lipid, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, ambulatory blood pressure monitoring records, and body composition parameters. The associations between variables and sAF were assessed using the Mann-Whitney U test and Spearman correlation. We observed significantly higher sAF values in the T1D group compared to the control (1.40 [1.27-1.53] vs. 1.20 [1.07-1.30, AU]; p = 0.004), consistent across all tested age groups. In the T1D group, sAF was positively correlated with current HbA1c, mean of historical HbA1c values, and T1D duration (r values, respectively: 0.27, 0.22, 0.14, all p < 0.01). Percentage of body fat was positively correlated with sAF (r = 0.120; p = 0.044). No significant correlations were found between sAF and lipid fractions, Z-score of BMI, parameters from 24 h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, or the amount of albumin excreted in urine. sAF was positively correlated with CRP (r = 0.17, p < 0.05). sAF was significantly higher in patients with concomitant celiac disease (1.53 [1.43-1.63] vs. 1.40 [1.27-1.53, AU], p = 0.001). Among young T1D patients with relatively brief diabetes duration, sAF effectively mirrors prior glycemic control, as presented by historical average HbA1c. However, associations with conventional CV risk markers are not evident. The higher sAF values in patients with celiac disease warrant further exploration.

Unveiling the "hidden quality" of the walnut pellicle: a precious source of bioactive lipids.

Tree nut consumption has been widely associated with various health benefits, with walnuts, in particular, being linked with improved cardiovascular and neurological health. These benefits have been attributed to walnuts' vast array of phenolic antioxidants and abundant polyunsaturated fatty acids. However, recent studies have revealed unexpected clinical outcomes related to walnut consumption, which cannot be explained simply with the aforementioned molecular hallmarks. With the goal of discovering potential molecular sources of these unexplained clinical outcomes, an exploratory untargeted metabolomics analysis of the isolated walnut pellicle was conducted. This analysis revealed a myriad of unusual lipids, including oxylipins and endocannabinoids. These lipid classes, which are likely present in the pellicle to enhance the seeds' defenses due to their antimicrobial properties, also have known potent bioactivities as mammalian signaling molecules and homeostatic regulators. Given the potential value of this tissue for human health, with respect to its "bioactive" lipid fraction, we sought to quantify the amounts of these compounds in pellicle-enriched waste by-products of mechanized walnut processing in California. An impressive repertoire of these compounds was revealed in these matrices, and in notably significant concentrations. This discovery establishes these low-value agriculture wastes promising candidates for valorization and translation into high-value, health-promoting products; as these molecules represent a potential explanation for the unexpected clinical outcomes of walnut consumption. This "hidden quality" of the walnut pellicle may encourage further consumption of walnuts, and walnut industries may benefit from a revaluation of abundant pellicle-enriched waste streams, leading to increased sustainability and profitability through waste upcycling.

Correlations Between the Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio, Platelet-Lymphocyte Ratio, and Serum Lipid Fractions With Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration.

Introduction Age-related macular degeneration, a chronic and progressive disease, is one of the leading causes of vision loss globally among the elderly population. Multiple hypotheses have been proposed regarding its pathogenesis, including the presence of lipid metabolism alteration. Dysfunctional lipid handling within retinal pigment epithelial cells has been implicated in the accumulation of lipofuscin and subsequent induction of oxidative stress and inflammation, all contributing to retinal degeneration. The present study aims to comparatively analyze the serum lipid fractiondistributions in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and controls. Materials and methods A retrospective study was carried out between January 2021 and December 2023 on 91 naïve patients with neovascular AMD and 90 controlsadmitted for routine cataract surgery. All subjects underwent a comprehensive ophthalmological exam, including ophthalmoscopy and optical coherence tomography (OCT) with central macular thickness (CMT) measurement. A complete blood count with differential and lipid fractions values was analyzed. The neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglycerides (TG) were comparatively analyzed between the control group and the test group. Results The groups were comparable in terms of age (73.84 ±7.52 years for the neovascular AMD group vs 72.1±10.92 years in controls; p=0.8) and gender distribution (p=0.243). The mean NLR and PLR values were slightly higher in the AMD groupbut not statistically significant (p=0.51, p>0.99, respectively). Comparative analysis of lipid profile fractions showed significantly higher HDL-C values in the exudative AMD group compared to normal subjects (61.27±19.4 mg/dL vs 50.99±7.86 mg/dL, p=0.006). Also, the proportion of subjects with HDL-C>60 mg/dL was higher in the exudative AMD group (p=0.014). There were no significant differences in total cholesterol (189.77±53.39 mg/dL vs 190.43±37.84 mg/dL, p=0.681), LDL-C, and TG. Logistic regression analysis showed that serum HDL-C and HDL-C values >60 mg/dL are significantly associated factors with neovascular AMD. However, there is no statistical correlation between the values of these biochemical parameters and visual acuity or CMT in the neovascular AMD patient group. Conclusions There were no correlations between NLR and PLR with neovascular AMD in the study group. Higher HDL-C valuesexceeding 60 mg/dL were associated with neovascular age-related macular degeneration and could represent a possible therapeutic target in neovascular AMD.

Fractionation and characterization of Dunaliella microalgal biomass and extraction of carotenoids

This paper presents findings on the application of two fractionation protocols of Dunaliella microalgal biomass with the aim to separate and recover the lipid, pigment and protein fraction, leaving as “residue” the fraction that contains carbohydrates. The first protocol (LPC) is based on the initial extraction of lipids, followed by extraction of proteins, while in the second protocol (CLP), the pigments are first extracted followed by lipids extraction. With the LPC protocol the recovered lipid fraction was 34 and 32 wt%, while the recovered proteinic fraction was 46 and 50 wt% for the two samples under study, i.e. 1120 (D. granulata) and 1220 (D. minutissima). The CLP protocol led to the initial extraction of the pigment fraction with a percentage of 10–15 wt% while the subsequently recovered lipidic fraction was 16–24 wt%. The initial biomass was characterized for its moisture (<0.7 wt% for both samples), ash (approx. 45 wt% for both samples), organic matter, elemental composition and higher heating value (HHV) which was 23 and 30 MJ/kg (organic matter based-OMB). The composition of the lipid fraction was analyzed via esterification and gas chromatography (GC-FID) showing C16 and C18 as the predominant acids in the samples. The residue/carbohydrate fraction was analyzed via acid hydrolysis and analysis by high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) showing about 20 wt% (-OMB) content of carbohydrates. The high ash content of the biomass was found to be co-extracted during the fractionation protocols at a percentage of ≈49 % in the lipidic fraction and 45 % in the proteinic fraction. Furthermore, emphasis was given on pigment extraction and recovery using various solvents and quantification methods. Measurements of β-carotene, carotenoids, and chlorophyll content through UV and HPLC analyses is presented with chlorophyl and carotenoid content being ≈12 wt% and ≈9 wt% for samples 1120 and 1220 (-OMB). Additionally, a comparison between three solvents (THF, dichloromethane, acetone) was performed regarding their ability to extract the pigments from the microalgal biomass showing that acetone is capable of extracting pigments when concentration of the pigments is not high. The comparison of the HPLC with the UV method, suggested that UV spectroscopy is a reliable and rapid alternative for pigments determination, while HPLC enables identification and quantitative determination of specific pigments and chlorophyll species. The study provides insights for different fractionation protocols applied in two not yet fully studied Dunaliella species as well as the chlorophyl and carotenoid content.

Nutritional enrichment of cereal foods: feasibility study and characterisation of biscuits fortified with seabass by‐products

SummaryIndustrial fish processing generates large amounts of fish by‐products. Therefore, this research aimed to explore alternatives that allow better exploitation of these by‐products and promote sustainability and a circular economy. To achieve this, the possibility of producing and using fish meal (FM) and fish protein hydrolysates (FPH) from seabass was studied for the nutritional fortification of biscuits. The results showed that the heat applied in the production of FPH was a factor that negatively affected the lipidic fraction, reducing the proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids but also producing a product with darker shades. The incorporation of FM and FPH into the biscuits produced nutritional enrichment, especially in protein and polyunsaturated fatty acids, but also caused colour changes, which were more intense due to the increase of Maillard reaction, and changes in sensory perception, where higher intensities of colour and toasted flavour were perceived (especially when including FPH), but also fish flavours. Scanning electron microscopy made possible the visualisation of differences in the internal structure, which could be related to differences found in instrumental texture measurements. In conclusion, this research demonstrated that using fish by‐products to enrich biscuits is possible from a nutritional perspective. However, other techniques such as the use of antioxidant substances to preserve the fish's fatty acid profile or the combination of enzymes to reduce fish flavours should be considered for future research.

Toxoplasma Infection Alters Lipid Profiles Challenging Cardiovascular Norms

This study conducted at Baquba Teaching Hospital from January to April 2024, investigated the lipid profiles of 75 participants (50 patients with Toxoplasma and 25 controls) aged between 50 and 60 years. Existing research suggests a potential link between Toxoplasma infection and alterations in lipid metabolism; however, specific effects on different lipid fractions are not well-understood. This study aimed to explore the association between Toxoplasma infection and changes in lipid profiles, particularly focusing on whether infection status correlates with variations in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. Venous blood samples were collected pre-breakfast and processed to obtain serum, which was analyzed for lipid profiles. The findings indicated that lipid levels generally increased in Toxoplasma patients compared to controls, except for a decrease in HDL levels. These results suggest that Toxoplasma infection could influence lipid metabolism, potentially impacting cardiovascular risk. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms underlying these changes and their clinical implications. Highlights: Toxoplasma infection is linked to significant changes in lipid profiles. The study identifies a unique decrease in HDL levels among infected individuals. Implications suggest potential cardiovascular risks associated with Toxoplasma. Keywords: Toxoplasma, Lipid Metabolism, Cardiovascular Risk, HDL Decrease

1H NMR profiling and chemometric analysis for ripening and production characterization of Grana Padano cheese

Grana Padano (GP) cheese is a renowned PDO Italian cheese whose nutritional characteristics and market price are influenced by the ripening stage. In this work, it was demonstrated that the combined use of untargeted 1H NMR profiling and chemometric analysis can be used as a powerful tool to quantitatively characterize GP ripening and production, focusing on both aqueous and lipid fractions. An initial exploratory analysis revealed substantial variations in the aqueous fraction attributable to aging time, year and season of production. Multivariate analysis was adopted to show these differences, mainly attributable to amino acids. In contrast, the lipid fraction analysis highlighted the impact of production season on fatty acid unsaturation, influenced by feed variations. As regards the production process, this study focuses on the variations induced by bactofugation. In this respect, the aqueous fraction was found to be extensively influenced by this centrifugation step, affecting compounds crucial to organoleptic characteristics.

Isolation and characterization of an alkenone composition mutant in the haptophyte Tisochrysis lutea

While long-chain alkenone (defined as alkenone) is known to have a potential for industrial application, its biosynthetic pathway is still largely unknown. In the present study, we obtained a novel mutant named C8–14 strain altering alkenone composition with heavy-ion beam irradiation to the haptophyte Tisochrysis lutea. This mutant showed higher levels of tri-unsaturated alkenones and significantly lower amounts of alkenones and alkenoates than the wild-type cells. In addition, the total amounts of fatty acids in the neural lipid fraction of the C8–14 strain were higher than those in the wild-type cells. The primary sequence of the genes related to alkenone desaturases in the C8–14 strain, including the paralogous genes found in this study, were identical to those in the wild-type cells. However, the expression level of the putative alkenone desaturase gene was altered. The expression of the TOD-2 gene was slightly higher in the C8–14 cells than in the wild-type cells. This is the first report, to the best of our knowledge, to create the mutant with the altered unsaturation of alkenones.

The influence of menopausal hormone therapy on somatic morbidity in postmenopausal women

Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) which is initiated in women less than 60 years old or within 10 years after the onset of menopause for the relief of menopausal symptoms, treatment of urogenital syndrome or osteoporosis, is currently the only way to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, thrombotic and metabolic disorders in healthy middle-aged women. This article presents the results of evaluating the use of hormone therapy in women during the menopausal transition to the state of somatic health in postmenopause by determining its effect on the state of the cardiovascular and bone systems, changes in the lipid profile, as well as on the risk of thrombosis in the postmenopause period.The objective: to determine the effect of MHT on somatic morbidity in postmenopausal women.Materials and methods. An analysis of the anamnesis, anthropometric indicators, results of general clinical and biochemical data of 120 women of menopausal age, who were divided depending on the use of menopausal hormone therapy into a study group (patients used MHT, n=60) and a control group (patients did not use MHT, n=60), is presented.All women were observed on the basis of the communal non-profit enterprise “Kyiv Perinatal Center” in the period from 2013 to 2023. Results. There was no significant difference in the indicators of the metabolic profile (levels of lipid fractions and glucose), as well as in anthropometric parameters (systolic and diastolic blood pressure, body mass index) between women of both groups (p&gt;0.05). The risk of cardiovascular events (especially angina pectoris, hypertension) was higher in women of the control group who did not use hormonal drugs (related risk (RR) 0.5 with a 95% confidence interval (CI) from 0.28 to 0.91; p&lt;0.007). However, it was found that there were significant differences between the groups in bone mineral density (the frequency of women with osteopenia was 43.3% in the control group versus 35% in the study group, and osteoporosis was diagnosed in 15% of women in the group without MHT versus 5% of women from the study group; RR is 0.69 with 95% CI≥0.5 at the confidence level p=0.05) and parameters affecting the risk of thrombotic complications (platelet level was 239.4±28.4×109/l in the control group versus 295.6±28.2×109/l in the study group, p&lt;0.001; the level of fibrinogen was 7.7±1.2 mmol/l in women without MHT versus 8.7±2.0 mmol/l in women with MHT, p=0.001; prothrombin time was 13.2±1.3 sec in the control group versus 15.0±1.1 sec in the study group, p&lt;0.001).Conclusions. Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is an effective method of preventing the development of osteopenic and osteoporotic conditions in women during the perimenopause period, but it also reliably significantly affects certain indicators of blood coagulation properties – the level of platelets, fibrinogen and prothrombin time – in the direction of their increase. It was established that the use of hormone replacement therapy the risks of developing adverse cardiovascular events (especially arterial hypertension and angina pectoris) are reduced, but, given the lack of difference between the compared groups of women in indicators of lipid metabolism, glucose, as well as in anthropometric data (which are the main risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases), further research is needed to establish the relationships of these parameters in more detail.During the appointment of MHT, one should be guided by the results of an individual risk/benefit assessment for the patient, paying special attention to the study of her anamnestic data.