Biological variability dominates and influences analytical variance in HPLC-ECD studies of the human plasma metabolome

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Biomarker-based assessments of biological samples are widespread in clinical, pre-clinical, and epidemiological investigations. We previously developed serum metabolomic profiles assessed by HPLC-separations coupled with coulometric array detection that can accurately identify <it>ad libitum </it>fed and caloric-restricted rats. These profiles are being adapted for human epidemiology studies, given the importance of energy balance in human disease.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>Human plasma samples were biochemically analyzed using HPLC separations coupled with coulometric electrode array detection.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>We identified these markers/metabolites in human plasma, and then used them to determine which human samples represent blinded duplicates with 100% accuracy (N = 30 of 30). At least 47 of 61 metabolites tested were sufficiently stable for use even after 48 hours of exposure to shipping conditions. Stability of some metabolites differed between individuals (N = 10 at 0, 24, and 48 hours), suggesting the influence of some biological factors on parameters normally considered as analytical.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>Overall analytical precision (mean median CV, ~9%) and total between-person variation (median CV, ~50–70%) appear well suited to enable use of metabolomics markers in human clinical trials and epidemiological studies, including studies of the effect of caloric intake and balance on long-term cancer risk.</p

Daily life self-management and self-treatment of musculoskeletal disorders through SHOULPHY

The aim of the present work is to introduce SHOULPHY: a digital application, which includes a rehabilitation protocol for the treat- ment of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome (SIS). SHOULPHY, short for Shoulder Physiotherapy, represents a valid contribute for physicians al- lowing for the creation of a patient-centred physiotherapic program and remote monitoring patient’s adherence to it, both in clinics and daily life. The application permits quantitative and effective evaluation of the ther- apeutic activity and functional level, through the use of wearable devices. The final purpose is to facilitate the functional recovery and maintenance of the physical level gained through the rehabilitation program, allowing for a complete return to sport and ordinary activities