Effect of different protein based feed on the growth of mahseer / Efeito de alimentação baseada em proteínas diferentes no crescimento de mahseer

For the proper growth of fish, it is necessary to feed the fish with a proper and balanced diet. A study was conducted to find out the effect of different protein-based diets on fingerlings of Tor putitora (mahseer). A feed with dietary protein levels of 35%, 40%, 45%, and 50% were prepared. The effect of different protein-based feed on weight gain, standard growth rate (SGR), food conversion ratio (FCR), percent weight gain, food conversion efficiency (FCE), and protein efficiency ratio (PER) was studied. An increase was observed in the growth rate with an increase in protein concentration up to 45%. The fingerlings fed a 45% protein diet shown the highest growth, followed by 50%, 40%, and 35%. The SGR value was greatest for 45% protein diet (8.56) followed by 50% and 40%, while the least values were observed for 35% protein feed (1.57). The same trend was observed for FCE. The highest PER values was observed in fishes fed 45% protein-based feed (0.65) followed by 50% (0.56), 40% (0.38) and35% (0.17). The food conversion ratio was lowest for 45% protein diet (3.41), while the greatest for 35% protein feed (16.85). It was concluded that a 45% protein-based diet was the best feed formulation for higher production of Tor putitora. However, research on the same percentage of protein diet is recommended for yearlings.

Para o bom crescimento dos peixes, é necessário alimentá-los com uma alimentação adequada e balanceada. Um estudo foi realizado para descobrir o efeito de diferentes dietas à base de proteínas em alevinos de Tor putitora (mahseer). Foi preparado um alimento com níveis de proteína dietética de 35%, 40%, 45% e 50%. O efeito de diferentes alimentos à base de proteína no ganho de peso, taxa de crescimento padrão (SGR), taxa de conversão alimentar (FCR), ganho de peso percentual, eficiência de conversão alimentar (FCE) e taxa de eficiência proteica (PER) foi estudado. Foi observado um aumento na taxa de crescimento com um aumento na concentração de proteína de até 45%. Os alevinos alimentados com dieta de 45% de proteína apresentaram o maior crescimento, seguidos de 50%, 40% e 35%. O valor de SGR foi maior para dieta com 45% de proteína (8,56), seguido de 50% e 40%, enquanto os menores valores foram observados para ração com 35% de proteína (1,57). A mesma tendência foi observada para FCE. Os maiores valores de PER foram observados em peixes alimentados com 45% de ração à base de proteína (0,65), seguido por 50% (0,56), 40% (0,38) e 35% (0,17). A taxa de conversão alimentar foi menor para a dieta com 45% de proteína (3,41), enquanto a maior para a dieta com 35% de proteína (16,85). Concluiu-se que a dieta à base de proteína de 45% foi a melhor formulação alimentar para maior produção de Tor putitora. No entanto, a pesquisa sobre a mesma porcentagem de dieta proteica é recomendada para animais de um ano.

Effect of different protein based feed on the growth of mahseer / Efeito de alimentação baseada em proteínas diferentes no crescimento de mahseer

For the proper growth of fish, it is necessary to feed the fish with a proper and balanced diet. A study was conducted to find out the effect of different protein-based diets on fingerlings of Tor putitora (mahseer). A feed with dietary protein levels of 35%, 40%, 45%, and 50% were prepared. The effect of different protein-based feed on weight gain, standard growth rate (SGR), food conversion ratio (FCR), percent weight gain, food conversion efficiency (FCE), and protein efficiency ratio (PER) was studied. An increase was observed in the growth rate with an increase in protein concentration up to 45%. The fingerlings fed a 45% protein diet shown the highest growth, followed by 50%, 40%, and 35%. The SGR value was greatest for 45% protein diet (8.56) followed by 50% and 40%, while the least values were observed for 35% protein feed (1.57). The same trend was observed for FCE. The highest PER values was observed in fishes fed 45% protein-based feed (0.65) followed by 50% (0.56), 40% (0.38) and35% (0.17). The food conversion ratio was lowest for 45% protein diet (3.41), while the greatest for 35% protein feed (16.85). It was concluded that a 45% protein-based diet was the best feed formulation for higher production of Tor putitora. However, research on the same percentage of protein diet is recommended for yearlings.

Para o bom crescimento dos peixes, é necessário alimentá-los com uma alimentação adequada e balanceada. Um estudo foi realizado para descobrir o efeito de diferentes dietas à base de proteínas em alevinos de Tor putitora (mahseer). Foi preparado um alimento com níveis de proteína dietética de 35%, 40%, 45% e 50%. O efeito de diferentes alimentos à base de proteína no ganho de peso, taxa de crescimento padrão (SGR), taxa de conversão alimentar (FCR), ganho de peso percentual, eficiência de conversão alimentar (FCE) e taxa de eficiência proteica (PER) foi estudado. Foi observado um aumento na taxa de crescimento com um aumento na concentração de proteína de até 45%. Os alevinos alimentados com dieta de 45% de proteína apresentaram o maior crescimento, seguidos de 50%, 40% e 35%. O valor de SGR foi maior para dieta com 45% de proteína (8,56), seguido de 50% e 40%, enquanto os menores valores foram observados para ração com 35% de proteína (1,57). A mesma tendência foi observada para FCE. Os maiores valores de PER foram observados em peixes alimentados com 45% de ração à base de proteína (0,65), seguido por 50% (0,56), 40% (0,38) e 35% (0,17). A taxa de conversão alimentar foi menor para a dieta com 45% de proteína (3,41), enquanto a maior para a dieta com 35% de proteína (16,85). Concluiu-se que a dieta à base de proteína de 45% foi a melhor formulação alimentar para maior produção de Tor putitora. No entanto, a pesquisa sobre a mesma porcentagem de dieta proteica é recomendada para animais de um ano.

Effect of different protein based feed on the growth of mahseer

Abstract For the proper growth of fish, it is necessary to feed the fish with a proper and balanced diet. A study was conducted to find out the effect of different protein-based diets on fingerlings of Tor putitora (mahseer). A feed with dietary protein levels of 35%, 40%, 45%, and 50% were prepared. The effect of different protein-based feed on weight gain, standard growth rate (SGR), food conversion ratio (FCR), percent weight gain, food conversion efficiency (FCE), and protein efficiency ratio (PER) was studied. An increase was observed in the growth rate with an increase in protein concentration up to 45%. The fingerlings fed a 45% protein diet shown the highest growth, followed by 50%, 40%, and 35%. The SGR value was greatest for 45% protein diet (8.56) followed by 50% and 40%, while the least values were observed for 35% protein feed (1.57). The same trend was observed for FCE. The highest PER values was observed in fishes fed 45% protein-based feed (0.65) followed by 50% (0.56), 40% (0.38) and35% (0.17). The food conversion ratio was lowest for 45% protein diet (3.41), while the greatest for 35% protein feed (16.85). It was concluded that a 45% protein-based diet was the best feed formulation for higher production of Tor putitora. However, research on the same percentage of protein diet is recommended for yearlings.

Resumo Para o bom crescimento dos peixes, é necessário alimentá-los com uma alimentação adequada e balanceada. Um estudo foi realizado para descobrir o efeito de diferentes dietas à base de proteínas em alevinos de Tor putitora (mahseer). Foi preparado um alimento com níveis de proteína dietética de 35%, 40%, 45% e 50%. O efeito de diferentes alimentos à base de proteína no ganho de peso, taxa de crescimento padrão (SGR), taxa de conversão alimentar (FCR), ganho de peso percentual, eficiência de conversão alimentar (FCE) e taxa de eficiência proteica (PER) foi estudado. Foi observado um aumento na taxa de crescimento com um aumento na concentração de proteína de até 45%. Os alevinos alimentados com dieta de 45% de proteína apresentaram o maior crescimento, seguidos de 50%, 40% e 35%. O valor de SGR foi maior para dieta com 45% de proteína (8,56), seguido de 50% e 40%, enquanto os menores valores foram observados para ração com 35% de proteína (1,57). A mesma tendência foi observada para FCE. Os maiores valores de PER foram observados em peixes alimentados com 45% de ração à base de proteína (0,65), seguido por 50% (0,56), 40% (0,38) e 35% (0,17). A taxa de conversão alimentar foi menor para a dieta com 45% de proteína (3,41), enquanto a maior para a dieta com 35% de proteína (16,85). Concluiu-se que a dieta à base de proteína de 45% foi a melhor formulação alimentar para maior produção de Tor putitora. No entanto, a pesquisa sobre a mesma porcentagem de dieta proteica é recomendada para animais de um ano.

Transferrina como marcador de maturação pulmonar em cordeiros nascidos a termo ou prematuros / Transferrin as a marker of pulmonary maturation in lambs born at term or premature

O objetivo do estudo foi procurar proteínas de fase aguda que possam indicar sinais de maturação no neonato prematuro, por meio da quantificação sérica delas. Identificou-se a imunoglobulina A, a ceruloplasmina, a haptoglobina, a glicoproteína ácida, a transferrina, a albumina e as imunoglobulinas G de cadeias leve e pesada, pela comparação do perfil dos proteinogramas de cordeiros nascidos a termo com os prematuros submetidos a diferentes protocolos terapêuticos, a fim de estimular a atividade respiratória. Constituíram-se seis grupos: PN (n= 9): nascidos de parto normal; CN (n= 7): nascidos de cesariana em tempo normal de gestação; CP (n= 6): nascidos de cesariana prematura sem nenhum tipo de tratamento; DEX (n= 9): prematuros cujas mães receberam dexametasona pré-parto; SURF (n= 6): prematuros tratados com surfactante; e DEXSURF (n= 6): prematuros tratados com surfactante cujas mães receberam dexametasona pré-parto. As avaliações foram realizadas nos momentos imediatamente após o nascimento (M0), após 24 (M24) e após 48 horas (M48). As amostras foram processadas por meio de eletroforese em gel de poliacrilamida contendo dodecil sulfato de sódio (SDS-PAGE). A albumina, as imunoglobulinas e a proteína total dos cordeiros tiveram elevação após a ingestão de colostro. Maiores valores séricos de transferrina são referentes a maior período gestacional, podendo essa proteína ser utilizada como marcador de maturação neonatal.(AU)

The aim of this study was to search for acute phase proteins that could indicate signs of maturation in the premature neonate by quantifying them in serum. Immunoglobulin A, ceruloplasmin, haptoglobin, acid glycoprotein, tranferrin, albumin, light and heavy chain immunoglobulin G were quantified, comparing the profile of proteinograms from term to preterm lambs submitted to different protocols that stimulate respiratory activity. Six groups were used: PN (n= 9): born from normal birth; CN (n= 7): born from caesarean section at normal time of gestation; CP (n= 6): born from premature cesarean without any type of treatment; DEX (n= 9) preterm whose mothers received prepartum dexamethasone; SURF (n= 6) preterm treated with surfactant; DEXSURF (n= 6): preterm treated with surfactant whose mothers received prepartum dexamethasone. The evaluations were performed immediately after birth (M 0), after 24 and 48 hours (M 24 and M 48). Samples were processed with sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Albumin, immunoglobulins, and serum total protein of the lambs were elevated, after colostrum ingestion. Higher serum transferrin values refer to a longer gestational period, and this protein may be used as a marker of neonatal maturation.(AU)

Crambe (Crambe abyssinica) and sunflower (Helianthus annuus) protein concentrates: production methods and nutritional properties for use in fish feed

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to develop and improve protein concentration techniques for two industrial by-products with the potential for use in fish feed. In particular, we chemically characterized crambe meal and sunflower meal and their protein concentrates. Three different protein concentration methods were tested: isoelectric pH (pHi), acid pH and alkaline pH. For crambe and sunflower meals extraction using the pHi method was most efficient in terms of protein yield and crude protein content in the concentrates; this method also increased lysine and methionine content in the concentrates. The water holding capacity of the sunflower protein concentrate was greater than that of the crambe protein concentrate. The crambe protein concentrate had a foam-formation capacity of 15%, which stabilized at 6% after 90 minutes. The protein concentration method also reduced total phenolic content by approximately 50% in the concentrates compared with the meals. Therefore, we conclude that protein concentration using the pHi method is the most efficient technique for crambe and sunflower meals, and the use of this technique can decrease total phenolic compounds while improving meal quality for fish feeding.

Comparing the expression of human DNA topoisomerase I in KM71H and X33 strains of Pichia pastoris

Background: Human is an essential cellular enzyme that is found in all human cells. As this enzyme is upregulated in cancer cells exceedingly, it is used as a target for cancer chemotherapeutic drug development. As such, producing the in-house enzyme for the purpose to speed up the search for more cost-effective and target specific hTopoI inhibitors is warranted. This study aims to compare the optimised conditions for the expression of hTopoI in KM71H (MutS) and X33 (Mut+) strains of Pichia pastoris. P. pastoris transfected with an hTopoI recombinant vector was used for the optimization of a higher level of hTopoI expression. Results: In the process, fed-batch cultivation parameters that influence the expression of hTopoI, such as culture temperature, methanol induction and feeding strategy, were optimised in the transfected KM71H and X33 P. pastoris strains in a shake flask system. The cell density and total protein concentration (protein level) of transfected P. pastoris were compared to determine the optimum culture conditions for each transfected P. pastoris strain. A higher hTopoI level was observed in the transfected KM71H culture supernatant (2.26 ng/mL) when the culture was incubated in the optimum conditions. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that MutS strain (KM71H) expressed and secreted a higher level of hTopoI heterologous protein in the presence of methanol compared to the Mut+ strain; X33 (0.75 ng/mL). However, other aspects of optimization, such as pH, should also be considered in the future, to obtain the optimum expression level of hTopoI in P. pastoris.

Seasonal variations in hematological and hemodynamic parameters

Background: Seasonal fluctuation in incidence of invasive pneumococcal disease, pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis and coronary heart disease etc has been reported since long time. So, the present study was conducted to evaluate the seasonal variation in hematological and hemodynamic parameters, heart rate and blood pressure in the month of November, February and May. Materials and methods: 15 male subjects in the age group of 18.5±1 year were matched on haematological parameters, heart rate and blood pressure in three different seasons and the results were compared. Results: Packed cell volume in winter (February), Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate in summer (May) were increased (P< 0.001) as compared to basal level in November month with non significant variation in Hemoglobin concentration and Red Blood Cell count. Total Leukocyte count significantly increased (p <0.001) in winter, while on differential and absolute leukocyte count Eosinophil, Basophil, Monocyte, Lymphocyte (%) were elevated (p <0.001) and Neutrophil (%) decreased (p <0.001) in summer. Total Protein concentration, serum Albumin level was higher in winter. Heart rate shows insignificant seasonal changes but blood pressure, both systolic and diastolic was lower (p< 0.001) in summer and rate pressure product (RPP) was higher (p<0.05) in winter. Conclusion: So, these findings indicate that variations in different parameters do occur to adapt to the environmental conditions which may be responsible for susceptibility to different diseases e.g. asthma and ischemic heart diseases in different seasons.

Study on effects of citric acid induced acid load on salivary secretion / 国际检验医学杂志

Objective To investigate the effects of citric acid on the related indexes of salivary secretion under acid loading in or‐der to optimize the citric acid load method .Methods The saliva samples were collected from 10 young healthy volunteers at 1-90 s before ,at 91-120 s during and at 121-210 s after citric acid loading .The indexes were detected in saliva with mixed loading and after loading .The salivary alpha‐amylase(sAA ) activity ,pH value ,saliva flow rate ,total protein concentration in various groups were detected .The ratio values before and after the acid loading were compared among the groups .Results (1)The sAA activity , saliva pH value and total protein concentrations after acid loading were significantly increased compared before loading (P<0 .05) , moreover the ratio of after loading and before loading was greater than 1(P<0 .05);(2) however in the citric acid mixing ,the sAA activity ,saliva pH value and total protein concentration were decreased compared with before acid loading ,its ratio was less than 1 (P<0 .05) .Conclusion Citric acid affects the secretion result of acid loading saliva secretion ,it is suggested that the saliva under acid loading is separated treated and analyzed .

Impact factors on results of semi-quantitative western blot in pharmacological research / 中国药学杂志

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the impact factors of the semi-quantitative Western blot (WB), offering a guidance on research of pharmacological effects of drugs at the level of proteins. METHODS: Total proteins were extracted from the Huh7.5 cells infected with hepatitis C virus and quantified with BCA kit, HCV Core protein was chose as target protein, and protein Tubulin or Gap-dh, which was encoded by housekeeping gene, as the internal control. By controlling the experimental factors, such as loading sample amount, concentration and the incubation time of first antibodies, and dilutions of chemiluminescent fluid as well, we analyzed those factors how to impact the semi-quantitative results. RESULTS: The semi-quantitative results showed that there is a linear relationship between relative intensity of target protein and the amount of total protein at must protein concentration range, beyond which, the range-ability of relative intensity of target protein reduced, even no changes. However, sample volume loaded, or protein selected as internal reference has little influence on the result of semi-quantitative WB. In the context of obtaining high-quality band, concentration and incubation time of antibodies or dilution of chemiluminescent fluid also has no influence on it. Yet, the semi-quantitative WB has certain defects and our results show that the permissible error of semi-quantitative result should be controlled within 15%. CONCLUSION: The key impact factor on the result of semi-quantitative WB is the target protein amount of loading. On the premise of obtaining clear and high-quality bands, appropriately selecting loading volume of samples, concentration and incubation time of first antibodies, and dilutions of chemiluminescent fluid is conducive to accomplish experiments without affecting the final results of semi-quantitative WB.

Effects of Momordica charantia on Serum Lipid Profile, Serum Protein Levels and Selected Markers of Cardiovascular Damage in Diabetic Rats.

Aims: To investigate the effects of M. charantia on serum lipid profile, serum protein concentration and selected markers of cardiovascular damage in streptozotocin-induced diabetic Wistar rats. Study design: Forty healthy adult Wistar rats of both sexes were randomly assigned into five groups A, B, C, D and E of eight rats each. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria, between January 2010 and March 2012. Methodology: At the expiration of the research, the animals were sacrificed and blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis. Serum lipid profile, total protein and serum albumin, serum Creatine Kinase, Lactate Dehydrogenase and Glucose-6- Phosphate Dehydrogenase activities were determined using Randox assay kits. The levels of Serum globulin and albumin/globulin ratio were calculated. Serum nitric Oxide and Prostaglandin E2 levels were determined using assay kits. Results: The result showed a significant reduction (p<0.05) in the blood glucose levels in group D when compared with groups A, B, C and E. There was an increase in triglyceride (p<0.05), total cholesterol (p>0.05), low density lipoprotein (p>0.05) and very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (p<0.05) were increased in group B when compared with group D. The serum levels was presented a non significant reduction in total protein (p>0.05), albumin (p>0.05), globulin (p>0.05) and albumin/globulin ratio (p>0.05) when group B was compared with group D. Lactate dehydrogenase (F=0.18, p>0.05) and creatinine kinase (F=1.96, p>0.05) were increased (p>0.05) while the nitric oxide (F=2.21, p<0.05), PGE2 (F=1.25, p<0.05) and G6PDH (F=2.92, p<0.05) were reduced (p<0.05) in group B when compared with A, C, D and E. Conclusion: The presents study thus suggests that M. charantia could serve as a useful antidiabetic agent.

A study on the relationship of the activity of aryl hydrocarbon receptor and aryl hydrocarbon ;metabolic enzymes in peripheral blood and breast cancer / 中国癌症杂志

Background and purpose:Previous studies showed activated aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) might be involved in the development of breast cancer induced by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PHAs) and AhR which was regarded as transcription factors activated by ligand could induced many enzymes expression. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the protein level of AhR and aryl hydrocarbon metabolic enzymes in vivo with a relationship of the breast cancer and pathology indicators. Methods:A case-control study was 1∶1 matched and 65 pairs blood samples were collected, the ELISA was used in testing blood protein levels of the aromatic hydrocarbon receptor and aryl hydrocarbon metabolic enzymes. Meanwhile pathological data was collected. The Rank sum test statistical analysis was used in analyzing measurement data, Spearman test was used in correlation analysis. Results:Statistical analysis revealed that there was no statistical difference in aldehyde dehydrogenase(ALDH), cytochrome P450(CYP450) between the case group and the control group (Z=0.196,P=0.845;Z=0.269,P=0.788);and the AhR, NQO1, GST control group concentrations were lower than that in the case group. There were statistical differences of AhR, quinone oxido-ereductase 1(NQO1), glutatnione-S-transferases(GST) between the control group and the case group(Z=1.956, P=0.041;Z=2.627, P=0.009;Z=3.272, P=0.001). Correlation analysis showed that AhR has a higher correlation in case group with GST, NQO1 (r=0.665, P<0.01;r=0.704, P<0.01). Grouping with the pathology indicators (ER, PR, HER-2)-,+,++,+++, found that the level of grouping by ER, AhR protein levels and GST protein levels have a discrepancies(P<0.05). Conclusion:These results might suggest that the protein levels of AhR and aryl hydrocarbon metabolic enzymes have a signiifcant impact on breast cancer. Detection of enzyme protein levels may be helpful for early detection of breast cancer, prompt treatment options and prognosis are meaningful.

Role of amylase, mucin, IgA and albumin on salivary protein buffering capacity: A pilot study.

It has been suggested that proteins serve as major salivary buffers below pH5. It remains unclear, however, which salivary proteins are responsible for these buffering properties. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the correlation between salivary concentration of total protein, amylase, mucin, immunoglobulin A (IgA), albumin and total salivary protein buffering capacity at a pH range of 4–5. In addition, the buffering capacity and the number of carboxylic acid moieties of single proteins were assessed. Stimulated saliva samples were collected at 9:00, 13:00 and 17:00 from 4 healthy volunteers on 3 successive days. The buffering capacities were measured for total salivary protein or for specific proteins. Also, the concentration of total protein, amylase, mucin, IgA and albumin were analysed. Within the limits of the current study, it was found that salivary protein buffering capacity was highly positively correlated with total protein, amylase and IgA concentrations. A weak correlation was observed for both albumin and mucin individually. Furthermore, the results suggest that amylase contributed to 35% of the salivary protein buffering capacity in the pH range of 4–5.

Evaluación de tres dietas alimentarias para el período larval de Aedes aegypti en condiciones de laboratorio / Assessment of three feeding diets for the Aedes aegypti larval stage under lab conditions

Introducción: la alimentación en el período larval del mosquito es sumamente importante, debido a que en esta etapa almacenan los nutrientes básicos para el desarrollo de la pupa y el adulto. Objetivo: evaluar la calidad de tres dietas como fuente nutritiva y su influencia en el desarrollo de las fases preadultas de Aedes aegypti. Métodos: se evaluaron tres dietas en el insectario del Instituto Pedro Kourí, concentrado CENPALAB, elaborado en el Centro para la Producción de Animales de Laboratorio (CENPALAB), levadura torula, subproducto de la caña de azúcar (ambas de producción nacional) y harina de pescado, producto de importación. Previamente, se determinó la calidad higiénica-microbiológica y química nutricional de las dietas. Se evaluaron variables biológicas como el número de pupas diarias por alimentos y la duración del ciclo larval; se determinó la cantidad de proteínas presentes en las larvas alimentadas con cada dieta, mediante el método de Lowry. Resultados: la calidad higiénica-microbiológica, así como la caracterización química nutricional de los 3 alimentos evaluados, aportaron resultados satisfactorios para el desarrollo de la investigación. Los valores mayores en la concentración de proteínas y en la actividad biológica en la fase larval del mosquito se obtuvieron con la harina de pescado. No se encontraron diferencias significativas en la concentración de proteínas entre las dietas en los primeros días del período larval, A partir del quinto hasta el séptimo día de vida, la harina de pescado fue superior al concentrado CENPALAB. La emergencia de pupas comenzó al sexto día para todas las dietas, obteniéndose el pico más alto al séptimo día con diferencias entre estas. El ciclo larval duró de 7 a 8 días. Conclusiones: se sugiere la utilización de las dietas de producción nacional en situaciones que lo requieran por carencia de la dieta importada, para no detener el desarrollo de las investigaciones

Introduction: feeding mosquitoes during the larval stage is an important process, since it is the stage in which basic nutrients are stored for the subsequent development of pupas and adults. Objective: to evaluate both the quality of three diets as nutritional source and the influence these diets have on the development of the Aedes aegypti in its pre-adult stage. Methods: three different diets were evaluated at the Insectarium of the Pedro Kourí Tropical Medicine Institute in Havana, Cuba. The diets evaluated were: CENPALAB Food Concentrate, elaborated at the Center for Laboratory Animal Production (CENPALAB, Spanish acronym) and torula yeast, a sugar cane byproduct (both of them from domestic production) as well as fish flour, an imported product

Dimensionamiento de los sistemas de microfiltración y ultrafiltración para la producción de la toxina tetánica elaborada en el Instituto Nacional de Higiene Rafael Rangel / Microfiltration and ultrafiltration systems dimension for using in tetanus toxin production in the Instituto Nacional de Higiene "Rafael Rangel"

Se evaluó el uso de la tecnología de Flujo de Filtración Tan gencial (FFT), para obtener la toxina tetánica a partir de cultivos de la bacteria Clostridium tetani, usando el proceso de Micro filtración (MF), para eliminar el paquete celular y posteriormente, a partir del filtrado obtenido, concentrar y diafiltrar la Toxina Tetánica usando el proceso de Ultrafiltración (UF). Se determinaron las características de los filtros, condiciones de trabajo y el dimensionamiento de los equipos a adquirir para la nueva producción industrial de Toxina Tetánica. Se evaluaron el flujo, tiempo, rendimiento del proceso y las características del producto obtenido. Utilizando cultivos con Toxina Tetánica en un equipo de filtración de laboratorio, diseñado para producir el efecto de FFT. Se seleccionó las membranas tipo cassettes, formato Suspended Screen, porosidad 0,2μm, como las adecuadas para el proceso de MF, ya que mostraron un 100% de transmisión de la Toxina Tetánica, ausencia de restos celulares y flujo promedio de filtrado de 73.30 L/m2h. Así mismo, se seleccionaron las membranas tipo cassettes, formato Omega, porosidad 50 y 70 kDa, como las adecuadas para el proceso de UF, ya que mostraron 100% de recuperación de la toxina, ausencia de toxina en el filtrado y adecuados flujos de filtrado (106,7 y 104,4 L/m2h, respectivamente). Estos resultados permitieron dimensionar, considerando las variables a utilizar en la producción industrial (Volumen 650 a 950 litros, tiempo de procesos, 3 horas), el área de filtración de los equipos de MF y UF a adquirir, estimados en 20m2 y 5m2, respectivamente.

Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF) technology was evaluated to process tetanus toxin which is produced by Clostridium tetani bacterium. Microfiltration (MF) is used to retain cells while allowing passage of the toxin to the filtrate stream. The filtrate is co - llected and further processed by Ultrafiltration (UF) to concentrate the toxin and to maximize the wash of small species by a Dia filtration step. Both, MF and UF processes were evaluated to specify the filters and corresponding critical process parameters to scale-up the application. As part of the evaluation, flow ra te, processing time, yield and product attributes were characterized. The cell harvest containing the tetanus toxin was processed using a laboratory scale TFF system designed to product the TFF effect. The evaluation demonstrated that a cassette in sus pended screen format and membrane with 0.2μm pore is the right selection for the MF step. It showed 100% of toxin transmission without the presence of cellular debris and average process flux of 73.30 L/m2h. The UF step was conducted using the same system with cassettes in me dium screen format with pores of 50 and 70kDa. It showed 100% retention of the toxin with a process flux of 106,7 and 104,4L/m2h, respectively. To maximise product retention during UF, the 50 kDa membrane was selected. These results were used to scale-up the application to process the industrial volume of 650 a 950 liters in 3 hours of processing time. Membrane area sizing of MF and UF to be acquired is estimated in 20m2 and 5m2, respectively.

Dimensionamiento de los sistemas de microfiltración y ultrafiltración para la producción de la Toxina Diftérica elaborada en el Instituto Nacional de Higiene “Rafael Rangel” / Microfiltration and ultrafiltration sistems dimension for using in Difteria Toxin production in the Instituto Nacional de Higiene "Rafael Rangel"

Se evaluó el uso de la tecnología de Flujo de Filtración Tangencial (FFT), para obtener la toxina diftérica a partir de cultivos de la bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheriae, usando el proceso de Microfiltración (MF), para eliminar el paquete celular y posteriormente, a partir del filtrado obtenido, concentrar y diafiltrar la toxina diftérica usando el proceso de Ultrafiltración (UF). Se determinaron características de los filtros, condiciones de trabajo y dimensionamiento de los equipos a adquirir para la producción industrial de Toxina Diftérica. Se evaluaron el flujo, tiempo, rendimiento del proceso y las características del producto obtenido, utilizando cultivos con Toxina Diftérica en un equipo de filtración de laboratorio, diseñado para producir el efecto de FFT. Seseleccionó las membranas tipo cassettes, formato Médium Screen, porosidad 0,2 μm, como las adecuadas para el proceso de MF, ya que mostraron 100% de transmisión de la Toxina Diftérica, ausencia de restos celulares y flujo promedio de filtrado de 9.16 L/m2h. Así mismo, se seleccionaron las membranas tipo cassettes, formato Omega, porosidad 10 y 30 kDa, como las adecuadas para el proceso de UF, ya que mostraron 100% de recuperación de la toxina, ausencia de toxina en el filtrado y adecuados flujos de filtrado (97,5 y 125,9 L/m2h, respectivamente), Estos resultaron permitieron dimensionar, considerando las variables a utilizar en la producción industrial (Volumen 650 a 950 Litros, Tiempo de Procesos, 3 a 5 horas), el área de filtración de los equipos de MF y UF a adquirir, estimados en 20m2 y 5m2, respectivamente.

Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF) technology was evaluated to process diphtheria toxin which is produced by Cory ne - bacterium diphtheriae bacterium. Microfiltration (MF) is used to retain cells while allowing passage of the toxin to the filtrate stream. The filtrate is collected and further pro - cessed by Ultrafiltration (UF) to concentrate the toxin and to maximize the wash of small species by a Diafiltration step. Both, MF and UF processes were evaluated to specify the filters and corresponding critical process parameters to scale-up the application. As part of the evaluation, flow rate, processing time, yield and product attributes were characterized. The cell harvest containing the diphtheria toxin was processed using a laboratory scale TFF system designed to product the TFF effect. The evaluation demonstrated that a cassette in medium screen format and membrane with 0.2 μm pore is the right selection for the MF step. It showed 100% of toxin transmission without the presence of cellular debris and average process flux of 9.16 L/m2h. The UF step was conducted using the same laboratory equipment with cassettes in medium screen format with pores of 10 and 30 kD. It showed 100% retention of the toxin with a process flux of 97,5 and 125,9 L/m2h, respectively. These results were used to scale-up the application to process the industrial volume of 650 a 950 liters between 3 to 5 hours of processing time. Membrane area sizing of MF and UF to be acquired is estimated in 20 m2 and 5m2, respectively.

Avaliação de métodos espectrofotométricos para determinação de proteína em amostras de lagoas de estabilização / Evaluation of spectrophotometric methods for protein determination in waste stabilization ponds sample

Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo principal comparar cinco métodos espectrofotométricos para determinação de proteínas em amostras provenientes de estações de tratamento de efluentes sanitários. O intuito foi definir uma metodologia de aplicação rápida, fácil e confiável para este tipo de amostra. As lagoas de estabilização, como sistemas de tratamento biológico, têm como principais constituintes proteínas, carboidratos e lipídeos, mas também apresentam muitos compostos interferentes, como por exemplo, uréia, detergentes e compostos fenólicos, que podem prejudicar a quantificação de tais parâmetros. Os métodos analisados foram Lowry, Biureto, Bradford e Ácido bicinconínico. O método de Lowry mostrou-se mais adequado às características da amostra, com boa reprodutibilidade, reagente específico, custo moderado e ausência de substancias interferentes.

This research had as main objective to compare five spectrophotometric methods for protein determination in samples proceeding from sanitary effluent of treatment plant. Intention was to define a methodology that is of fast and easy and reliable application for this type of sample. The stabilization ponds, as systems of biological treatment, have as main constituent proteins, carbohydrates and lipids, but also they present many interfering composites, for example, phenolic urea, detergents and composites, that can harm the quantification of such parameters. The analyzed methods had been Lowry, Biuret, Bradford and Acid bicinconinic. The method of Lowry revealed more adequate to the characteristics of the sample, with good reproducibility, specific reagent, moderate cost and absence of interfering substance.

Changes of Protein Concentration (Cpro) and Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS) of Serum,Heart,Lungs,Brain and Liver in Acute Pulmonary Edema Rats Model Induced by Formaldehyde Inhalation / 环境与健康杂志

Objective To study the changes of the protein concentration (Cpro) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) of serum, heart, lungs, brain and liver in acute pulmonary edema rats model induced by formaldehyde inhalation, to provide data for studying in acute pulmonary edema animal model induced by formaldehyde inhalation. Methods Eighteen SD female rats were randomly divided into the control group and the model group, and the model group rats were inhaled vaporous formaldehyde in a self-made cabinet for 2 hours and were sacrificed 8 hours later. The blood sampling, lungs, heart, brain and liver were collected and lungs/ heart index, heart/body weight index and lungs/body weight index were calculated, NOS were detected with NOS kit and protein determination kit, and the pathological examination of lungs tissue was done. Rats of control group were treated as the same as model group, but formaldehyde was replaced by normal saline. Results Compared with the control, lungs/heart index increased significantly (P0.05). Conclusion In acute pulmonary edema rats induced by formaldehyde inhalation, the protein concentration of serum, heart, brain and lungs tissues increase significantly, NOS does not change obviously.

Zinc and Copper Concentrations and Their Correlation with Protien in Cerebrospinal Fluid of Children with Neurologic Disorders

PURPOSE: The importance of trace elements in their effect on the physiology and pathology of the central nervous system is well recognized. Changes in the concentrations of these elements in the brain could take place in pathological states. Recently, a greater emphasis has been given to the role of trace elements in the function of the nervous system both in normal and pathological conditions. The past experiments from animal demonstrate that Na+-K+-ATPase inhibition, particularly in the hippocampus, is involved in epileptogenicity. Zinc is the most potent inhibitor of Na+-K+-ATPase followed closely by copper. Zinc modulates the activity of glutamic acid decarboxylase, the rate limiting enzyme in the synthesis of -aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is a major inhibitory neurotransmitter. There are few reports of zinc and copper concentrations in normal CSF and in CSF from patients with neurological diseases. The aim of this study was designed to determine the zinc and copper concentrations and their correlation with protein in CSF of pediatric patients with neurologic disorders. METHODS: The study population was 43 patients who had admitted to Kang Nam Sacred Heart Hospital of Hallym University from March to June, 1996 due to high fever, headache, vomiting, and seizure. All patients were examined CSF study, 32 patients (group I) were showed abnormal CSF and seizure disorders including febrile convulsion and 11 patients (group II) were showed normal CSF and clinical symptoms of febrile illness. Zinc and copper concentrations in CSF were determined with flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. In addition, CSF zinc and copper concentrations in normal CSF proteingroup (group A) and in increased CSF protein group (group B) were determined to investigate probability that the damaged blood-brain-barrier permits the passage of zinc and copper into the subarachnoid space. RESULTS: 1) The CSF zinc concentrations in group I and II were 9.40+/-6.18 and 7.39+/-5.48microgram/dl, and the CSF copper concentrations in group I and II were 4.86+/-7.07 and 2.93+/-1.45microgram/dl, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the CSF zinc and copper concentrations between the two groups. 2) The CSF zinc concentrations in group A and B were 7.21+/-4.96 and 11.24+/-7.32microgram/ dl, and the copper concentrations in group A and B were 3.31+/-2.15 and 5.59+/-9.46microgram/dl, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the CSF zinc and copper concentrations between the two groups. 3) There was a significant positive correlation between the CSF zinc and copper concentrations as well as between the CSF zinc and protein concentrations. But there was no significant correlation between the CSF copper and protein concentrations. CONCLUSIONS: There was no statiscally significant defference in the CSF zinc and copper concentrations between neurologic disorders and febrile diseases. Increased CSF zinc and copper concentrations in increased CSF protein groups were not found. But there were some correlation between zinc, copper, protein levels in CSF. These results do not support assumption that damaged BBB permits the passage of the zinc, copper into the subarachnoid space.

Effects of activity level and type of muscle on glucose transporter protein concentration / 体力科学

In this study, we investigated the possibility that GLUT4 protein concentration and mitochondrial enzyme activity is coregulated by muscle contractile activity. In the first experiment, male rats were trained by treadmill running or swimming for 3 wks and training effects in upper-and hind-limb muscle were investigated. Treadmill training program induced increases of 30% in citrate synthase activity, 51% in hexokinase activity, and 35% in GLUT4 protein concentration in hind-limb soleus muscles without causing training effects in upper-limb epitrochlearis muscles. On the other hand, swimming training program induced increases of 67% in citrate synthase activity, 139% in hexokinase activity, and 89% in GLUT4 protein concentration in epitrochlearis muscle without causing training effects in soleus muscles. These results suggest that muscle contractile activity which raises mitochondrial enzyme activity increases GLUT4 protein concentration in skeletal muscle. In a second set of experiment, we investigated relationship between muscle GLUT4 protein concentration and mitochondrial enzyme activity by use of the various type of rat muscles (soleus, plantaris, red gastrocnemius, white gastrocnemius, epitrochlearis and heart), which possese different contractile activity level. Significant correlation was observed between GLUT4 protein concentration and citrate synthase activity among different muscles (r=0.936) . They suggest that muscle GLUT4 protein concentration and mitochondrial enzyme activity level may be coregulated according to muscle contractile activity level.

Protein concentration in bacterial cerebrospinal fluid.

Several types of bacteria were found in 275 specimens of cerebrospinal fluids, identified as K. pneumoniae, S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, A. anitratus, Anaerobic streptococci, B. streptococci not gr A, S. viridans, Y. streptococci not gr B or D and Escherichia coli. Total protein concentration of these specimens were distinctly higher than normal. The values were 133-1700 mg/dl. The amount of albumin moderately decreased but the amount of gamma globulin markedly increased.