Reduce Protein Loss Research Articles

Effect of West Indian Bay Leaf (Pimenta racemosa) and Turmeric (Curcuma longa) Essential Oils on Preserving Raw Chicken Breasts.

While the use of chemical preservatives in meat may appear to be tremendously advantageous, they have long been purported to increase the risk of incidence of certain types of cancers. Consequently, many people have opted for minimally processed alternatives. This consumer shift has placed substantial pressure on the food industry to implement more natural alternatives to these synthetic preservatives in the meat industry. Research on plant extracts as potential agents for food additives is increasing. The bioactive components present in West Indian bay leaf and turmeric essential oils have a promising potential for use as novel, green preservatives in the meat industry. Raw chicken breast samples (28 g) were each treated with different volumes (0.5, 1 and 1.5 mL) of the essential oil of West Indian bay leaf or turmeric or their mixture (1:1 to make up a final volume of 0.5, 1 and 1.5 mL). Physicochemical, microbiological and sensory evaluations were performed on the fresh and treated samples stored for 14 days at 4 °C. The West Indian bay leaf oil had a higher extraction yield and total phenolic content, while the turmeric oil had a higher total flavonoid content. The most effective treatments, compared to the control, significantly (p<0.05) minimized the pH increase by 13.9 % (1.5 mL bay leaf oil), reduced texture loss by 44.8 % (1.5 mL oil mixture) and reduced protein loss by 98.9 % (1 mL bay leaf oil). Most treated samples had reduced microbial loads, with the turmeric oil showing the highest efficacy against lactic acid bacteria, yeasts and moulds. Treated samples had significantly higher (p<0.05) sensory scores than the control on the final day of storage, with the 1.5 mL oil mixture proving to be the most effective, as the storage life of the chicken breast sample was extended by 6 days. This study has shown for the first time that the essential oil from turmeric and West Indian bay leaf can extend the shelf life of raw chicken breast and highlights the potential of the oil as natural preservative agents in lieu of synthetic alternatives.

Protein and lipid expansion microscopy with trypsin and tyramide signal amplification for 3D imaging

Expansion microscopy, whereby the relative positions of biomolecules are physically increased via hydrogel expansion, can be used to reveal ultrafine structures of cells under a conventional microscope. Despite its utility for achieving super-resolution imaging, expansion microscopy suffers a major drawback, namely reduced fluorescence signals caused by excessive proteolysis and swelling effects. This caveat results in a lower photon budget and disfavors fluorescence imaging over a large field of view that can cover an entire expanded cell, especially in 3D. In addition, the complex procedures and specialized reagents of expansion microscopy hinder its popularization. Here, we modify expansion microscopy by deploying trypsin digestion to reduce protein loss and tyramide signal amplification to enhance fluorescence signal for point-scanning-based imaging. We name our new methodology TT-ExM to indicate dual trypsin and tyramide treatments. TT-ExM may be applied for both antibody and lipid staining. TT-ExM displayed enhanced protein retention for endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial markers in COS-7 cell cultures. Importantly, TT-ExM-based lipid staining clearly revealed the complex 3D membrane structures in entire expanded cells. Through combined lipid and DNA staining, our TT-ExM methodology highlighted mitochondria by revealing their DNA and membrane structures in cytoplasm, as well as the lipid-rich structures formed via phase separation in nuclei at interphase. We also observed lipid-rich chromosome matrices in the mitotic cells. These high-quality 3D images demonstrate the practicality of TT-ExM. Thus, readily available reagents can be deployed in TT-ExM to significantly enhance fluorescence signals and generate high-quality and ultrafine-resolution images under confocal microscopy.

Effect of Organophosphate Insecticides in Cattle Farming Feed on FSH and LH Hormone Levels in Dairy Cows in Kediri and Pujon

The issue plaguing the dairy cattle industry as a whole is low reproductive efficacy due to nutritional and reproductive disorders. To overcome this, nutrients in feed play a very important function. Feed is an essential component of any livestock operation. The requirements for animal protein depend on physiological status and production level. Ruminants can also reduce protein loss by recycling urea, a normally excreted byproduct of protein metabolism. Insecticides are components of pesticides used to kill insects. Organophosphate insecticides (OPs) are phosphate-containing insecticides. Phosphoric acid used to manufacture organophosphate insecticides. This insecticide is notorious for being the most toxic to mammals. This study seeks to determine the effect of feed-containing organophosphates on FSH and LH hormone concentrations in the blood of dairy cows. Mid-lactation For the purpose of this study, Friesian Holstein dairy cattle were divided into two experimental groups, group 1 (first ration) and group 2 (second ration). ANOVA analysis was used for statistical analysis.

Aggregation and gelation of soymilk protein after alkaline heat treatment: Effect of coagulants and their addition sequences

This study investigated the effect of different coagulants, including the addition sequence, on the aggregation behavior of soymilk protein and the quality of tofu to improve the gel formation ability and conversion efficiency of soymilk protein after alkaline heat treatment (AHT). The results showed that the coagulation reaction of AHT soymilk was delayed compared with normal soymilk when introducing magnesium chloride (MC). The pH (6.7–6.8) was much higher than that of normal soymilk curd (5.7–5.8) when the coagulation reaction reached the endpoint, and a large number of 7S α′ and α subunits and 11S acidic (A) subunits did not coagulate. However, when introducing lactic acid (LA) or LA combined with MC as a coagulant, the proteins could be almost completely converted into curd, and the recovery rate of the protein increased by about 10%. Inducing coagulation by adding LA and MC simultaneously (MIXTURE) or adding LA first, followed by MC (LA-MC), allowed each protein subunit to aggregate into particles indiscriminately, forming a continuous and uniform network structure via salt bridges, disulfide bonds, or hydrophobic interactions. This structure differed from the "cluster-like" network structure of MC-MC tofu or the "fine chain-like" network structure of LA-LA tofu. Furthermore, the textural properties, such as hardness, springiness, water holding capacity (WHC), and cohesiveness of the tofu, were improved. The results of this study reveal that regulating the aggregation patterns of soymilk protein subunits is an effective way to directionally control the quality of gel products. • Lowering the pH of the coagulation endpoint can reduce protein loss of tofu. • Soy protein subunits have different coagulation modes induced by Mg 2+ and H + . • Combined use of MgCl 2 and lactic acid can improve the texture of tofu. • Adjusting aggregation pattern of protein could regulate the product quality.

Protective Effect and Possible Mechanisms of Artemisinin and Its Derivatives for Diabetic Nephropathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis in Animal Models.

Background Artemisinin and its derivatives have potential antidiabetic effects. There is no evaluation of reported studies in the literature on the treatment of diabetic nephropathy (DN), one of the commonest diabetic microangiopathies, with artemisinins. Here, we aimed to evaluate preclinical evidence for the efficacy and possible mechanisms of artemisinins in reducing diabetic renal injury. Methods We conducted an electronic literature search in fourteen databases from their inception to November 2021. All animal studies assessing the efficacy and safety of artemisinins in DN were included, regardless of publication or language. Overall, 178 articles were screened according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Finally, 18 eligible articles were included in this systematic review. The SYstematic Review Center for Laboratory animal Experimentation (SYRCLE) risk-of-bias tool was used to assess the risk of bias in the included studies. The primary outcomes were kidney function, proteinuria, and renal pathology. Secondary endpoints included changes in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels, body weight, and relevant mechanisms. Results Of the 18 included articles involving 418 animal models of DN, 1, 2, 6, and 9 used dihydroartemisinin, artemether, artesunate, and artemisinin, respectively. Overall, artemisinins reduced indicators of renal function, including blood urea nitrogen (P < 0.00001), serum creatinine (P < 0.00001), and kidney index (P = 0.0001) compared with control group treatment. Measurements of proteinuria (P < 0.00001), microalbuminuria (P < 0.05), and protein excretion (P = 0.0002) suggested that treatment with artemisinins reduced protein loss in animals with DN. Artemisinins may lower blood glucose levels (P = 0.01), but there is a risk of weight gain (P < 0.00001). Possible mechanisms of action of artemisinins include delaying renal fibrosis, reducing oxidative stress, and exerting antiapoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects. Conclusion Available evidence suggests that artemisinins may be protective against renal injury secondary to diabetes in preclinical studies; however, high-quality and long-term trials are needed to reliably determine the balance of benefits and harms.

Trehalose and alginate oligosaccharides enhance the stability of myofibrillar proteins in shrimp ( Litopenaeus vannamei ) muscle during frozen storage

Saccharin with antifreeze effects can reduce protein loss in some aquatic products and effectively preserve taste and quality characteristics. However, the mechanisms responsible for stabilizing these types of food products are still unknown. Here, we use the trehalose fragment index to study the effects of trehalose and alginate oligosaccharides on frozen shrimp meat over 120 days. The stability of muscle protein in Litopenaeus vannamei was evaluated using the myofibrillar fragmentation index (MFI), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and SDS-PAGE. We found that the role of saccharin is markedly retarded by the decrease in the rate of Ca2+-ATPase activity, and that it effectively inhibited increases in the total sulfhydryl, active sulfhydryl, and carbonyl content, as well as changes in the water migration of myofibrillar protein. The SDS-PAGE results further confirmed that trehalose and alginate oligosaccharide treatments can effectively inhibit degradation of myofibrillar proteins. Our study aims to reduce the quality loss of aquatic products in cold chain logistics and provide a theoretical basis for controlling associated factors. Novelty impact statement The stability of muscle protein in Litopenaeus vannamei was evaluated using the myofibrillar fragmentation index (MFI), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and SDS-PAGE. We found that the role of saccharin is markedly retarded by the decrease in the rate of Ca2+-ATPase activity, and that it effectively inhibited increases in the total sulfhydryl, active sulfhydryl, and carbonyl content, as well as changes in the water migration of myofibrillar protein. The SDS-PAGE results further confirmed that trehalose and alginate oligosaccharide treatments can effectively inhibit degradation of myofibrillar proteins.

Developing a mass spectrometry-based assay for the ovarian cancer biomarker CA125 (MUC16) using suspension trapping (STrap).

Ovarian cancer diagnosis and the monitoring of ovarian cancer patients currently rely on the detection of the glycoprotein CA125 through a double-determinant immunoassay. This immunoassay may not provide accurate reporting of CA125 amounts in serum samples if the antibodies fail to detect all proteoforms (false negative results) or because of antibody binding to off-target proteins (false positive results). An immunoaffinity-free detection method, such as mass spectrometry-based bottom-up proteomics, would be an attractive alternative, but glycoproteins such as CA125 are notably challenging to analyze by such methods. Here, we demonstrate a proteomics workflow involving suspension trapping (STrap) sample preparation and deoxycholic acid as a passivating agent to reduce protein loss through adsorption; this approach enables improved protein coverage over conventional workflows (from 3 to 12% coverage of ascites-derived CA125). We expect that this rapid and simple sample preparation strategy will assist in the development of mass spectrometry-based assays for CA125 and other large glycoproteins. Graphical abstract.

Routine Double Filtration Plasmapheresis Affects Hemostatic Proteins and Prolongs Clotting Tests

Background : Double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) is a form of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) that removes high-molecular-weight (HMW) pathological mediators from the plasma with two filters: a plasma separator and a plasma fractionator. Relative to simple TPE, the semi-selectiveness of DFPP reduces protein loss and the need for substitution fluid. However, depending on the choice of plasma fractionator, DFPP may negatively impact hemostatic components such as HMW coagulation factors. Aim: To determine the impact of DFPP on various hemostatic parameters (i.e. FVIII activity, fibrinogen level, vWF level and activity, ADAMTS13 level and activity, protein C (PC) activity, protein S (PS) activity, antithrombin (AT) activity, prothrombin time (PT), and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)). Methods: Fourteen patients undergoing weekly, bimonthly, or monthly DFPP sessions for hematologic conditions (n=11) or nervous system disorders (n=3) were recruited. Hemostatic parameters were measured immediately before and after 27 DFPP sessions (1-4 sessions/patient). The treatment volume was standardized at one plasma volume, and anticoagulation was performed with ACD-A citrate dextrose solution. EC-30W and EC-50W were used as the plasma fractionators in 4 and 23 sessions, respectively. In addition to primary data collection, we systematically searched PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE for studies that investigated the impact of DFPP on hemostasis. No restriction was placed on filter choice. Results: In our cohort of 14 patients, all hemostatic changes were statistically significant. After a routine DFPP session, the level and/or activity of HMW proteins (&gt;100kDa: FVIII, fibrinogen, vWF, ADAMTS13) were decreased more than those of low-molecular-weight (LMW) proteins (&lt;100kDa: PC, PS, AT). Mean pre- vs post-DFPP values are reported in brackets beside the corresponding parameter. FVIII activity (99.9% s.d. 49.2% vs 54.2% s.d. 33.4%; p&lt;0.0001) and fibrinogen level (325mg/dL s.d. 112mg/dL vs 168mg/dL s.d. 71.1mg/dL; p&lt;0.0001) were decreased by 45 s.d. 16% and 49 s.d. 13% compared to baseline, respectively. vWF level (99.3% s.d. 57.6% vs 52.2% s.d. 34.2%; p&lt;0.0001) and activity (90.4% s.d. 46.1% vs 51.1% s.d. 31.6%; p&lt;0.0001) were decreased by 46 s.d. 20% and 43 s.d. 17% relative to baseline, respectively. ADAMTS13 level (556ng/mL s.d. 142ng/mL vs 204ng/mL s.d. 89.8ng/mL; p&lt;0.0001) and activity (70.1% s.d. 13.1% vs 38.3% s.d. 14%; p&lt;0.0001) were decreased by 63 s.d. 13% and 44 s.d. 22% compared to baseline, respectively. Contrasting the 43-63% reductions of HMW proteins from baseline, PC activity (98.9% s.d. 22.9% vs 72.3% s.d. 22.3%; p&lt;0.0001), PS activity (64.3% s.d. 13.2% vs 45.4% s.d. 13%; p&lt;0.0001), and AT activity (100% s.d. 18.5% vs 74.8% s.d. 19.9%; p&lt;0.0001) were decreased by 26 s.d. 17%, 29 s.d. 15%, and 25 s.d. 16%, respectively. In terms of coagulation tests, PT expressed as an internalized normalized ratio (1.07 s.d. 0.174 vs 1.43 s.d. 0.737; p=0.0005) increased by 35 s.d. 71%, whereas PT expressed as a percentage (94.2% s.d. 22.3% vs 68.2% s.d. 14.5%; p&lt;0.0001) decreased by 25 s.d. 16% relative to baseline. Furthermore, aPTT expressed in seconds (35s s.d. 6.63s vs 47.1s s.d. 31.9s; p=0.0074) and as a ratio (1 s.d. 0.189 vs 1.35 s.d. 0.917; p=0.008) increased by 36 s.d. 94% and 36 s.d. 95% compared to baseline, respectively. Our systematic review included 26 cohort studies, 6 case reports, and 1 randomized controlled trial. Increases in INR and aPTT following DFPP were considerably higher in previous studies, which may relate to the commonality of heparin-induced anticoagulation. The present study is the first comprehensive investigation of the impact of DFPP on hemostatic parameters with such a large sample size. It is also the first study of its nature to measure ADAMTS13-related parameters. Conclusions: Routine DFPP resulted in significant reduction across all investigated hemostatic proteins and significant prolongation of clotting tests. The activities of HMW coagulation-related proteins were decreased more than those of LMW anticoagulation-related proteins. This finding suggests that DFPP may increase overall bleeding risk, a consideration for patient safety that may be of importance in continuous DFPP treatment. Additional high quality evidence is needed to elucidate the effect of DFPP on the hemostatic system. Disclosures Matino: Sanofi: Honoraria; Sobi: Honoraria, Research Funding; Roche: Research Funding; Bayer: Honoraria, Research Funding; Pfizer: Honoraria, Research Funding; Bioviiix: Honoraria.

Isolation of lactoferrin and immunoglobulins from dairy whey by an electrodialysis with filtration membrane process

Isolation of high value minor proteins such as lactoferrin and immunoglobulins from crude dairy streams is a major challenge for the dairy industry. Here we investigate an electrodialysis with filtration membrane (EDFM) approach to separate lactoferrin (LF) and immunoglobulins (Ig) from other dairy proteins. A polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) membrane is prepared using phase inversion in a coagulation bath with 80% ethanol to serve as the filtration membrane. A range of treatment times and two electric field strengths (38.5 and 77 V/cm) were then investigated within the electrical cell. The results show that the filtration membrane prepared in-house can offer strong rejection for LF and Ig while allowing a high flux of other proteins. The separation of LF and Ig from a simulated whey solution can be achieved. The use of a partially demineralised whey reduces protein loss, but there is a tradeoff between the energy consumption and the protein removal rate as the extent of this demineralisation is increased.

Characterization of nitrogen transformation dynamics in alfalfa and red clover and their mixture silages

AbstractThe objective of this experiment was to characterize the dynamics of nitrogen (N) transformations in alfalfa and red clover and their mixture during ensiling. Alfalfa, red clover and a mixture of them (1:1 on fresh weight) were ensiled for 3, 5, 7, 14 and 30 days. The fermentation qualities and dynamic change of N components of the three silages were determined. Red clover and mixed silages showed better fermentation qualities, indicated by lower (p &lt; 0.05) pH value, higher (p &lt; 0.05) lactic acid concentration compared with alfalfa silage after ensiling. Retarded N transformation was observed in red clover and mixed silages, as evidenced by lower (p &lt; 0.05) free amino acid concentrations at all intervals of ensiling, higher (p &lt; 0.05) peptide N and lower (p &lt; 0.05) ammonia N concentrations after 14 days of ensiling as opposed to alfalfa silage. Mixing red clover apparently delayed the degradation process of alfalfa protein in mixed silage, as demonstrated by no significant difference in non‐protein N (NPN) concentrations in comparison with pure red clover silage at most intervals of ensiling. The results of this study, from the perspective of N transformation, confirmed the lower rate of protein degradation in red clover in contrast to alfalfa during ensiling and potentially provide an effective strategy to reduce protein loss for alfalfa silage production.

Mechanization of field drying herbs: ways improvement

High-quality grass feeds (hay, haylage, silage) decrease cost price, improve consumer properties and increase competitiveness of cattle products significantly being the main component of agricultural export for the Republic of Belarus. An important issue of grass feed procurement is acceleration of mowed grass drying process. Reduction of drying time or drying process acceleration has a positive effect on feed quality. To achieve this goal, technique of laying the mowed grass on stubble, in rolls or spreading, turning and conditioning is applied. Based on practical experience of application and analysis, the relevance of repeated rolling (reconditioning) of mowed grasses in rolls is substantiated. Design and workflow of new device for such grass rolling has been developed. Its working unit is designed as a sawn-deck or roller flatting apparatus. The kinematic parameters of the upper and lower rollers have been determined experimentally: the rollers rotation ratio should make 1.01 m ωв / ωн m 1.03. Field tests of the device with legumes helped to determined that it accelerates drying by 15–20%, reduces protein loss by 10–15% compared to drying with no treatment. The presented research materials present the development of the theory of grass feeds procurement mechanization. Use of the materials in practice will improve the quality of grass feeds by accelerating the mowed grass drying process.

Effects of 3-hydroxybutyrate and free fatty acids on muscle protein kinetics and signaling during LPS-induced inflammation in humans: anticatabolic impact of ketone bodies

Acute inflammation, and subsequent release of bacterial products (e.g. LPS), inflammatory cytokines, and stress hormones, is catabolic, and the loss of lean body mass predicts morbidity and mortality. Lipid intermediates may reduce protein loss, but the roles of free fatty acids (FFAs) and ketone bodies during acute inflammation are unclear. We aimed to test whether infusions of 3-hydroxybutyrate (3OHB), FFAs, and saline reduce protein catabolism during exposure to LPS and Acipimox (to restrict and control endogenous lipolysis). A total of 10 healthy male subjects were randomly tested 3 times, with: 1) LPS, Acipimox (Olbetam) and saline, 2) LPS, Acipimox, and nonesterified fatty acids (Intralipid), and 3) LPS, Acipimox, and 3OHB, during a 5-h basal period and a 2-h hyperinsulinemic, euglycemic clamp. Labeled phenylalanine, tyrosine, and urea tracers were used to estimate protein kinetics, and muscle biopsies were taken for Western blot analysis of protein metabolic signaling. 3OHB infusion increased 3OHB concentrations (P<0.0005) to 3.5 mM and decreased whole-body phenylalanine-to-tyrosine degradation. Basal and insulin-stimulated net forearm phenylalanine release decreased by >70% (P<0.005), with both appearance and phenylalanine disappearance being profoundly decreased. Phosphorylation of eukaryotic initiation factor 2α at Ser51 was increased in skeletal muscle, and S6 kinase phosphorylation at Ser235/236 tended (P=0.074) to be decreased with 3OHB infusion (suggesting inhibition of protein synthesis), whereas no detectable effects were seen on markers of protein breakdown. Lipid infusion did not affect phenylalanine kinetics, and insulin sensitivity was unaffected by interventions. During acute inflammation, 3OHB has potent anticatabolic actions in muscle and at the whole-body level; in muscle, reduction of protein breakdown overrides inhibition of synthesis. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01752348.

Protective effect of porcine plasma protein hydrolysates on the gelation of porcine myofibrillar protein exposed to a hydroxyl radical-generating system

This study investigated the effect of different concentrations of porcine plasma protein hydrolysates (PPPH) on the gelation of porcine myofibrillar protein (MP) exposed to a hydroxyl radical-generating system (HRGS). Compared to non-oxidized MP, the oxidative modification led to a decreased penetration force and water holding capacity (WHC) (P<0.05). Meanwhile, addition of PPPH (1.5mg/mL) reduced the loss of MP gel strength and WHC induced by HRGS (P<0.05). Low-field nuclear magnetic resonance results suggested that the addition of PPPH facilitated the hydration of the protein. The results concerning molecular forces revealed that hydrophobic interactions, hydrogen bonds, and disulphide bonds are the primary forces in gel formation. Non-reducing electrophoresis indicated that the addition of PPPH reduced protein loss and aggregation. The addition of PPPH promoted the formation of a more smooth and homogeneous gel network. Our results demonstrated that PPPH effectively retarded oxidation-induced MP gel deterioration and could be used as an antioxidant in meat products.

Testosterone prevents protein loss via the hepatic urea cycle in human.

The urea cycle is a rate-limiting step for amino acid nitrogen elimination. The rate of urea synthesis is a true indicator of whole-body protein catabolism. Testosterone reduces protein and nitrogen loss. The effect of testosterone on hepatic urea synthesis in humans has not been studied. To determine whether testosterone reduces hepatic urea production. An open-label study. Eight hypogonadal men were studied at baseline, and after two weeks of transdermal testosterone replacement (Testogel, 100 mg/day). The rate of hepatic urea synthesis was measured by the urea turnover technique using stable isotope methodology, with 15N2-urea as tracer. Whole-body leucine turnover was measured, from which leucine rate of appearance (LRa), an index of protein breakdown and leucine oxidation (Lox), a measure of irreversible protein loss, were calculated. Testosterone administration significantly reduced the rate of hepatic urea production (from 544.4 ± 71.8 to 431.7 ± 68.3 µmol/min; P < 0.01), which was paralleled by a significant reduction in serum urea concentration. Testosterone treatment significantly reduced net protein loss, as measured by percent Lox/LRa, by 19.3 ± 5.8% (P < 0.05). There was a positive association between Lox and hepatic urea production at baseline (r2 = 0.60, P < 0.05) and after testosterone administration (r2 = 0.59, P < 0.05). Testosterone replacement reduces protein loss and hepatic urea synthesis. We conclude that testosterone regulates whole-body protein metabolism by suppressing the urea cycle.

NUTRITION THERAPY IN SEPSIS: CHARACTERIZATION AND IMPLICATIONS FOR CLINICAL PROGNOSIS.

the inflammatory response caused by sepsis leads to metabolic changes, which may result in significant lean mass loss in septic patient. Because of this, when digestive tract is functional, nutritional therapy (NT) must be initiated within 48 hours of intensive treatment to reduce protein loss. to evaluate enteral nutritional therapy (ENT) in adult septic patients with exclusive ENT for ≥ 72 hours and length of stay ≥7 days in Intensive Care Unit and its relationship with clinical prognosis. we prospectively analyzed the adequacy of enteral nutrition administered, factors associated with non-conformity, gastrointestinal tolerance and outcome. Statistical tests of chi-square and Student's t as well as Mann-Whitney and Spearman and Pearson correlations (p < 0.05) were used. A multiple logistic regression model has been done by using the stepwise method to evaluate the association between predictors of clinical outcome. 53 patients, 67.9% male and 52.8% elderly were enrolled in this study. The average time for starting ENT was 30 (23.5) hours, and 88.7% of patients achieved nutritional goal in 48 hours. The mean volume delivered in relation to prescribed was 78.9%. When the sample was stratified according to administered/ prescribed calories, patients who received < 80% had a higher mortality rate (p = 0.001) and the caloric intake ≥ 80% was the determining factor in patients' clinical prognosis (p = 0.021). septic patients received early enteral nutrition. The nutritional goal and the mean volume delivered in relation to the prescribed volume meet the intensive care guidelines. The nutritional support was associated with clinical outcome, and caloric intake ≥ 80% determining the clinical prognosis. The pauses caused by reflux were significant in the group of patients who died and it may be related to disease severity.

Advanced hair damage model from ultra-violet radiation in the presence of copper.

Damage to hair from UV exposure has been well reported in the literature and is known to be a highly complex process involving initiation via absorption of UV light followed by formation and propagation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The objective of this work was to understand these mechanisms, explain the role of copper in accelerating the formation of ROS and identify strategies to reduce the hair damage caused by these reactive species. The location of copper in hair was measured by Transmission electron microscopy-(TEM) X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (XEDS) and levels measured by ICP-OES. Protein changes were measured as total protein loss via the Lowry assay, and MALDI ToF was used to identify the biomarker protein fragments. TBARS assay was used to measure lipid peroxide formation. Sensory methods and dry combing friction were used to measure hair damage due to copper and UV exposure and to demonstrate the efficacy of N,N' ethylenediamine disuccinic acid (EDDS) and histidine chelants to reduce this damage. In this work, a biomarker protein fragment formed during UV exposure is identified using mass spectrometry. This fragment originates from the calcium-binding protein S100A3. Also shown is the accelerated formation of this peptide fragment in hair containing low levels of copper absorbed from hair during washing with tap water containing copper ions. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (XEDS) studies indicate copper is located in the sulphur-poor endo-cuticle region, a region where the S100A3 protein is concentrated. A mechanism for formation of this peptide fragment is proposed in addition to the possible role of lipids in UV oxidation. A shampoo and conditioner containing chelants (EDDS in shampoo and histidine in conditioner) is shown to reduce copper uptake from tap water and reduce protein loss and formation of S100A3 protein fragment. In addition, the long-term consequences of UV oxidation and additional damage induced by copper are illustrated in a four-month wear study where hair was treated with a consumer relevant protocol of hair colouring treatments, UV exposure and regular shampoo and conditioning. The role of copper in accelerating UV damage to hair has been demonstrated as well as the ability of chelants such as EDDS and histidine in shampoo and conditioner products to reduce this damage.

Concentrated Ascites Reinfusion Therapy for Sinusoidal Obstructive Syndrome After Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS) is one of the severe complications of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Systemic management including respiratory and circulatory support is necessary. In addition, abdominal paracentesis is often needed for pain relief and to reduce the pressure of tense ascites. Concentrated ascites reinfusion therapy (CART) involves the filtration, concentration, and reinfusion of drained ascites, which contributes to reuse of autologous proteins. CART has been reported as supportive therapy for patients with liver cirrhosis and cancer. We retrospectively reviewed the efficacy and safety of CART in three patients (two with acute myelogenous leukemia and one with chronic myeloid leukemia) who developed SOS after allo-HSCT. They all had symptomatic, tense, and diuretic-refractory ascites with right costal pain and marked weight gain. Two patients showed immediate improvement after CART. However, one patient experienced four CARTs with slow recovery. All patients are now alive and are being monitored as outpatients over 2 years with remission. No severe adverse event was observed related to CART, and 25.2-98.0 (median 30.2) grams of albumin was collected and reinfused. CART after paracentesis reduces protein loss in ascites by reinfusion of autologous protein instead of exogenous albumin preparations. Although transient fever is reported as a frequent adverse event, no events like severe bleeding or infection were observed. While its safety has not been fully established in patients with hematological disease after HSCT, CART may be a considerable supportive therapy for SOS with tense ascites.

Reduction and S-Carboxymethylation of Proteins: Microscale Method

INTRODUCTIONReduction and alkylation of microscale amounts of protein (10-50 μg) require special attention. Classical methods for desalting and dialysis should be avoided due to large sample losses. Adding a small quantity of detergent to the protein solution during all manipulations can also reduce protein loss. This protocol describes a procedure for reduction and S-carboxymethylation of low-microgram amounts of protein. Samples are reduced and alkylated in small volumes (<200 μl) in the presence of detergent and desalted (and concentrated) by RP-HPLC in yields of >90%.

Update on nutritional supplementation with branched-chain amino acids

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) have a peculiar role in whole-body nitrogen metabolism. BCAAs are not only a substrate for protein synthesis, but also modulate several components of the synthetic machinery and help to conserve muscle mass; accordingly, several conditions, characterized by protein loss and catabolic status, are likely to benefit from amino acid administration. In addition, the competitive action of BCAAs on amino acid transport across the blood-brain barrier may ultimately alter the synthesis of brain neurotransmitters, involved in neurological diseases. Both putative actions of BCAAs have been tested in controlled clinical studies in the last few years. The beneficial effects on nutrition were reported to improve muscle performance, reduce protein loss during bed-rest, favor weight loss in obesity, reduce catabolism in trauma patients and improve clinical outcomes in patients with advanced cirrhosis. In this last area, the effects on nutrition might be coupled with the effects on hepatic encephalopathy mediated by improved neurotransmission, successfully tested in mania, tardive dyskinesia and spinocerebellar degeneration. After 30 years of investigation with BCAAs, new studies each year provide further evidence supporting their beneficial effect in a variety of diseases. There is a need for long-term, randomized clinical studies, both in the prevention and in the treatment of various pathological conditions.

The Role of Extracellular Matrix in Transperitoneal Transport of Water and Solutes

To define the extracellular matrix (ECM), to discuss the physical properties of its components and their impact on transport, and to review data in humans and in animals on the importance of hyaluronan to peritoneal dialysis. Literature survey. The ECM fills the interstitium between parenchymal cells and blood vessels in the subperitoneal interstitium. It is responsible for the interstitial resistance to solute and water transfer through the peritoneal barrier. Major components are collagen and hyaluronan, which are synthesized locally in the peritoneal tissue. Synthesis and deposition of these components increase with inflammation, and concentrations of the components influence the mechanical properties of the tissue and the interstitial Starling forces as well as transport. Removal of hyaluronan appears to increase the rates of water and large-solute transport. Addition of hyaluronan to dialysate appears to enhance fluid recovery and to reduce protein loss. Many of the physicochemical properties of ECM components are well described, but a large knowledge gap remains concerning the in vivo consequences of specific alterations in the interstitial components. More research is needed.