Physicochemical characterization and 16S rRNA analysis of a direct-fed microbial from calf ruminal fluid and its protective effect on Sprague-Dawley rat gut barrier function.

This study aimed to characterize the physicochemical properties and microbiota composition of a direct-fed microbial (DFM) and evaluate its protective effect on intestinal permeability in Sprague-Dawley rats using fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran (FITC-d) as a biomarker. The DFM was further characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and cell surface hydrophobicity (microbial adhesion to hexadecane [MATH] assay). The 16S rRNA gene was sequenced using short-read sequencing.

Chia seeds and chemical-elicited sprouts supplementation ameliorates insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hepatic steatosis in obese rats.

Chia seeds (CS) and sprouts are rich in bioactive compounds. This study aimed to assess the effects of germination and chemical elicitation (salicylic acid [SA]; hydrogen peroxide [H O ]) on proximate chemical, total phenolics compounds (TPC), non-extractable proanthocyanidins (NEPA), and carotenoids content of chia sprouts; besides, the effects of their supplementation on obesity-associated complications in rats fed with high-fat and fructose diet (HFFD) were evaluated. Protein, carbohydrate, TPC, NEPA, and carotenoids content were higher in sprouts than CS; elicitation enhanced TPC and carotenoids compared to non-elicited (NE) sprouts.

[Knowledge of HIV and sexually-transmitted diseases in Latin American and Maghrebi immigrants in Catalonia (Spain)].

Objectives: To describe and compare levels of knowledge about HIV/AIDS and condom use in the immigrant population.

Method: We performed a cross-sectional study by means of a semi-structured questionnaire and face-to face interviews in 238 Latin American and Maghrebi users of medical centers in the Barcelona and North Barcelona-Maresme health areas. The questionnaire included sociodemographic variables and questions on sexual behavior and general knowledge about HIV/AIDS, transmission mechanisms, and means of prevention.