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Many laboratory courses consist of short and seemingly unconnected individual laboratory exercises. To increase the course consistency, relevance, and student engagement, we have developed a research‐inspired and project‐based module, "From Gene to Structure and Function". This 2.5‐week full‐day biochemistry and structural biology module covers protein expression, purification, structure solving, and characterization. The module is centered around the flavodoxin‐like protein NrdI, involved in the activation of the bacterial ribonucleotide reductase enzyme system. Through an in‐depth focus on one specific protein, the students will learn the basic laboratory skills needed in order to generate a broader knowledge and breadth within the field. With respect to generic skills, the students report their findings as a scientific article, with the aim to learn to present concise research results and write scientific papers. The current research‐inspired project has the potential of being further developed into a more discovery‐driven project and extended to include other molecular biological techniques or biochemical/biophysical characterizations. In student evaluations, this research‐inspired laboratory course has received very high ratings and been highly appreciated, where the students have gained research experience for more independent future work in the laboratory. © 2019 The Authors. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 47(3):318–332, 2019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The consumption of chia seed (Salvia hispanica L.) has increased in recent years due its high content of omega‐3 fatty acids and dietary fiber. This seed also has a high concentration of proteins and essential amino acids, becoming a promising source of bioactive peptides. The objective of this review was to identify the composition and the beneficial effects of chia seeds (S. hispanica L.), their proteins, peptides, and their potential impact on human health. The UniProt database was used to identify the chia proteins and their amino acid sequences. The BIOPEP database was used to analyze the peptides's bioactive potential. A total of 20 proteins were cataloged in chia seed, 12 of those were involved in the regular metabolic processes of the plant cells. However, eight proteins were specifically related to production and storage of plant lipids, thus explaining the high concentration of lipids in chia seeds (around 30%), especially omega‐3 fatty acids (around 20%). The analyses of amino acid sequences showed peptides with bioactive potential, including dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV inhibitors, angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors, and antioxidant capacity. These results correlated with the main health benefits of whole chia seed in humans such as antioxidant capacity, and hypotensive, hypoglycemic, and anticholesterolemic effects. Such relation can be associated with chia protein and peptide compositions and therefore needs further investigation in vitro and in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient green method of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) biosynthesis was achieved by cell‐free extracts of fungus Trichoderma sp. WL‐Go. Based on UV–Vis spectra, AuNPs biosynthesised by cell‐free extracts with 90 mg/l protein exhibited a characteristic absorption band at 556 nm and was stable for 7 days. Transmission electron microscopy images revealed that the as‐synthesised AuNPs were spherical and pseudo‐spherical, and the average size was calculated to be 9.8 nm with a size range of 1–24 nm. The AuNPs illustrated their good catalytic activities for reduction of nitro‐aromatics (2‐nitrophenol, 3‐nitrophenol, 4‐nitrophenol, 2‐nitroaniline, 3‐nitroaniline) with catalytic rate constants of 7.4 × 10−3 s−1, 10.3 × 10−3 s−1, 4.9 × 10−3 s−1, 5.8 × 10−3 s−1, 15.0 × 10−3 s−1, respectively. Meanwhile, the AuNPs also showed excellent catalytic performance in decolourisation of azo dyes with decolourisation efficiency from 82.2 to 97.5%. This study provided a green gentle method for AuNPs synthesis as well as exhibiting efficient catalytic capability for degradation of aromatic pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Patients with progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD) develop positive phosphate balance that is associated with increased cardiovascular risk and mortality. Modification of dietary phosphate is a commonly used strategy to improve outcomes but is complicated by the need for adequate dietary protein. Surprisingly, the evidence for patient‐level benefits from phosphate restriction is tenuous, and the justification for using any phosphate binder for pre‐dialysis patients is questionable. Methods: The evidence for dietary phosphate modification was reviewed, along with the possible role of a smart phone application (app) that provides information on phosphate, sodium, potassium and nutrients in over 50 000 Australian foods. A pilot study of healthy participants assigned to dietetic advice and standard diet sheets, or dietetic advice, diet sheets and use of the smart phone app was performed. Results: Following baseline studies, 25 participants commenced the sodium and phosphate restricted diet. After 2 weeks, both groups showed non‐significant trends to reduction in urinary phosphate and sodium. App users referred to information on the app more frequently than the control group participants referred to written instructions, found referring to the app more convenient, felt they learned more new information, were more motivated to maintain the diet and were more likely to recommend their information source to family or friends (all P < 0.05). Conclusions: Maintaining phosphate balance remains an important goal of CKD management, although diets incorporating very low phosphate and protein contents may worsen patient outcomes. For selected patients, a smart phone app may improve dietary acceptance and compliance. Summary at a Glance: Abnormalities of phosphate metabolism are ubiquitous with chronic kidney disease, and management for hyperphosphataemia predominantly involves dietary phosphate restriction and the use of phosphate binders. This paper describes the evidence, or lack thereof, for dietary phosphate restriction, and also discusses a possible user‐friendly tool, in the form of a smart phone app, which may potentially be beneficial to patients with chronic kidney disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Peanut is an important oil and cash crop in China. We selected 540 peanut cultivars—released in three ecological regions of China (Yellow River, Yangtze River and Southeast Coast regions)—to examine changes in quality characters and pod yield in the last 60 years. From 1957 to 2016, crude fat, protein and pod yields in peanut cultivars increased significantly in the three regions. In contrast, the crude fat content, as opposed to its yield, did not change in the Yellow River region, increased in the Yangtze River region and decreased in the Southeast Coast region, and the protein content decreased in the Yellow and Yangtze River regions but did not change in the Southeast Coast region. Peanut cultivars grown in the Yellow and Yangtze River regions had higher mean crude fat contents, while those in the Southeast Coast region had higher mean protein contents. In future, breeders and farmers should pay more attention to high protein peanuts in the Southeast Coast region and high oil peanuts in the Yellow River and Yangtze River regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distiller's dried grains and garbanzo flour were blended with corn grits for the development of extruded snacks using a single screw extruder. Distiller's dried grains were processed for food application and termed as food grade distiller's dried grains or FDDG. Effects of different level of FDDG addition (0%–20%) and extrusion process parameters such as barrel and die temperature (100–140°C), screw speed (100–200 rpm), and feed moisture content (14%–20% wet basis) on the physical properties (expansion ratio, bulk density, color parameters), functional properties (water absorption and solubility indices), and nutritional properties (total dietary fiber, soluble and insoluble dietary fiber and protein content) of the extrudates were investigated and optimized using response surface methodology. FDDG incorporation had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on the total dietary fiber, color parameters, water solubility, and water absorption indices of the extruded snacks. Desirable expanded extrudates with a high level of total dietary fiber and protein were obtained with blends containing 20% FDDG extruded at 140°C extrusion temperature, 167 rpm screw speed, and 19% feed moisture content. Results indicate garbanzo flour, and FDDG can be successfully blended with corn grits to produce nutritious gluten‐free extruded snacks which are high in protein and dietary fiber. This study provides insight into properties of snacks prepared by combining corn DDG, a coproduct of ethanol processing with cereals and legumes. The information generated from this research will help in formulating gluten‐free extruded snacks with high levels of protein and fiber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have attracted the attention of researchers due to their properties. Biological synthesis of AgNPs is eco‐friendly and cost‐effective preferred to physical and chemical methods, which utilize environmentally harmful agents and large amounts of energy. Microorganisms have been explored as potential biofactories to synthesize AgNPs. Bacterial NP synthesis is affected by Ag salt concentration, pH, temperature and bacterial species. In this study, Bacillus spp., isolated from soil, were screened for AgNP synthesis at pH 12 with 5 mM Ag nitrate (AgNO3) final concentration at room temperature. The isolate with fastest color change and the best ultraviolet‐visible spectrum in width and height were chosen as premier one. AgNO3 and citrate salts were compared in terms of their influence on NP synthesis. Spherical Ag chloride (AgCl) NPs with a size range of 35–40 nm were synthesized in 1.5 mM Ag citrate solution. Fourier transform infrared analysis demonstrated that protein and carbohydrates were capping agents for NPs. In this study, antimicrobial and antitumor properties of the AgNP were investigated. The resulting AgCl NPs had bacteriostatic activity against four standard spp. And multi‐drug resistant strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These NPs are also cytotoxic to cancer cell lines MCF‐7, U87MG and T293. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Yogurt, a popular dairy product made by bacterial fermentation of milk, is a nutritious food that contains probiotics beneficial for digestive health. Protein fortification is an effective way to design foods with increased satiety. Chickpea is rich in protein, fiber, and prebiotics and can be a source for enhancing the nutritional quality of food products while providing functional attributes of macromolecules and promoting probiotic growth. The present study evaluated the effects of the addition of chickpea flour (1%, 2%, 3%, or 5%, w/v, level) on selected quality parameters of yogurt of 2% fat‐containing milk that was inoculated with a yogurt culture, fermented, and stored at 4 °C up to 21 days. The results demonstrated that addition of chickpea flour to the yogurt mix promoted the growth of bacteria during yogurt making, and decreased the incubation time. Fortification of yogurt with 1% and 2% chickpea flour provided a significant improvement in the viscosity of stored yogurt. Chickpea flour stimulated the growth of probiotic bacteria and maintained higher counts over the 21‐day refrigerated storage. Sensory evaluation revealed no significant influence on the acceptance scores of yogurt with addition of 1% or 2% of chickpea flour. The results suggest that addition of chickpea flour up to 2% level can be an option to enhance the protein level of yogurt without adverse effects on product qualities and sensorial properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: To address the anticipated global need for increased protein supply for human nutrition, particularly for developing and underdeveloped regions, concerted efforts are required. Although animal proteins satisfy nutrition needs, they may not be acceptable to all consumers either due to their cost or dietary restrictions followed by the consumer. Soybean has served as a nonanimal protein source; however, alternative protein sources will need to be cultivated and explored in the future to satisfy anticipated increased global needs. To effectively utilize a food protein source, separation of proteins from the nonprotein components present in that source is often needed or desired. Such separation requires understanding of protein properties and interactions of the protein with its environment. In chemical separation processes, protein solubility is a critical property as it often governs protein preparation and utilization and is the focus of this review. Emphasis is on nontraditional protein sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The intracellular transport of exogenous proteins has emerged as one of the most promising methodologies for biotechnology and chemical biology. Currently, protein delivery is mainly achieved by liposome encapsulation, translational fusion, and ionic/hydrophobic non‐covalent aggregation with transporting molecular vehicles. This work introduces the concept of supramolecular recognition and selective transport of proteins by peptide hybrid materials. A helical amphiphilic cationic peptide that bears two orthogonal alkoxyamines for the precise anchoring of protein ligands has been designed. After the attachment of these protein ligands, the peptide showed a high binding affinity for its target protein (i.e., mannose/Concanavalin A, Biotin/Streptavidin). The resulting peptide/protein hybrids were taken up by human cells such as HeLa and HepG2. The concept described in this manuscript could potentially be adapted, through the appropriate choice of ligands, to the transport of other proteins with suitable supramolecular binding motifs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The reduction of infant protein intake and associated growth velocity is a recommended public health strategy for reducing the risk of childhood obesity. This study tests the hypothesis that infants' growth and protein-rich food (dairy, meat, fish and egg) intake influences childhood body size and composition at 2-3 years of age.Methods: Thirty-six children were studied from the Feeding Queensland Babies Study Cohort, which prospectively collected data on infant growth and diet. Body composition was estimated using the deuterium oxide dilution technique at 2-3 years of age.Results: Fat-free mass index Z score at 2-3 years of age was positively associated with animal protein food (dairy, meat, fish and egg) intake at 12 months of age (r = 0.58, P = 0.002, false discovery rate corrected P value = 0.008) and negatively associated with weight-for-length growth velocity from 6 to 12 months of age (r = -0.75, P = 0.019, false discovery rate corrected P value = 0.038), which in turn was negatively associated with growth velocity from 0 to 6 months of age (r = -0.790, P = 0.007).Conclusion: This study suggests that strategies to reduce protein intake and growth velocity in early life may limit fat-free mass growth, potentially predisposing to increased adiposity in later life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Many proteins possess functional attributes that make them suitable for the encapsulation of bioactive agents, such as nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals. This article reviews the state of the art of protein‐based nanoencapsulation approaches. The physicochemical principles underlying the major techniques for the fabrication of nanoparticles, nanogels, and nanofibers from animal, botanical, and recombinant proteins are described. Protein modification approaches that can be used to extend their functionality in these nanocarrier systems are also described, including chemical, physical, and enzymatic treatments. The encapsulation, retention, protection, and release of bioactive agents in different protein‐based nanocarriers are discussed. Finally, some of the major challenges in the design and fabrication of protein‐based delivery systems are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interaction of La2 O2 CO3 nanoparticles (La NPs) with human serum albumin (HSA) has been studied. Analysis of the fluorescence quenching data of HSA using Stern–Volmer method showed that La NPs quenched HSA fluorescence in static quenching mode. Thermodynamic analysis indicated that hydrogen bonds and Van der Waals interactions play a major role for HSA–La NPs associations. Fluorescent displacement measurements confirmed that the primary binding site of La NPs was mainly located within site I (subdomain IIA) of HSA. The binding distance was calculated by using Forster resonance energy transfer theory. Also, the results of Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, circular dichroism, three‐dimensional fluorescence and UV–visible measurements indicated that the binding of above La NPs to HSA may induce conformational and micro‐environmental changes of protein. This study suggested that the conformational change of HSA was at secondary structure of it and the biological activity of this protein was changed in the present of La NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: BACKGROUND: As a result of shortages and the cost of the currently utilized conventional dietary protein sources in the Sub‐Saharan Africa feed industry, the chemical evaluation of available non‐conventional sources for feed is imperative. One such source is Marula nut meal (a by‐product of Marula oil extraction). The present study chemically characterized the nutritional composition of two differently processed Marula nut meals (MNMs) and compared them with that of solvent extracted soyabean meal (SBM). RESULTS: The MNMs had higher dry matter, ether extract and gross energy but lower crude protein and ash contents compared to SBM. The cold press produced Marula nut meal (MNM2) had higher arginine than the hydraulic filter press produced Marula nut meal (MNM1) and SBM. The meals had similar neutral and acid detergent fibre contents. The MNMs had higher phosphorus, magnesium and copper concentrations than SBM. Although the total saturated fatty acid proportion was similar across the meals, total monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acid proportions were higher in MNMs and SBM, respectively. Oleic acid was higher in MNMs than in SBM. CONCLUSION: The low crude protein content in MNMs compared to SBM is comparable with other conventional dietary protein sources. Thus, the MNMs could be used as protein and energy feed ingredients. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In situ estimates of ruminally undegraded protein (RUP) and intestinally digested protein (IDP) of ten concentrates, uncorrected or corrected for the ruminal microbial colonization, were used to examine the effects of this correction on the relationship between IDP and RUP values. Both variables were established for three rumen and duodenum cannulated wethers using 15N labeling‐techniques and considering measured rates of ruminal particle comminution (kc) and outflow (kp). RESULTS: A covariance analysis showed that the close relationship found between both variables (IDP = –0.0132 ± 0.00679 + 0.776 ± 0.0002 RUP; n = 60; P < 0.001; r = 0.960) is not affected by correcting for microbial colonization (P = 0.682). CONCLUSION: The IDP content in concentrates and industrial by‐products can be predicted from RUP values, thus avoiding the laborious and complex procedure of determining intestinal digestibility; however, a larger sample of feeds is necessary to achieve more accurate predictions. The lack of influence of the correction for microbial contamination on the prediction observed in the present study increases the data available for this prediction. However, only the use of corrected values may provide an accurate evaluation. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little is known about the role of biocompatible protein nanoridges in directing stem cell fate and tissue regeneration due to the difficulty in forming protein nanoridges. Here an ice-templating approach is proposed to produce semi-parallel pure silk protein nanoridges. The key to this approach is that water droplets formed in the protein films are frozen into ice crystals (removed later by sublimation), pushing the surrounding protein molecules to be assembled into nanoridges. Unlike the flat protein films, the unique protein nanoridges can induce the differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into osteoblasts without any additional inducers, as well as the formation of bone tissue in a subcutaneous rat model even when not seeded with MSCs. Moreover, the nanoridged films induce less inflammatory infiltration than the flat films in vivo. This work indicates that decorating biomaterials surfaces with protein nanoridges can enhance bone tissue formation in bone repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incubations were carried out with batch cultures of ruminal micro-organisms from sheep to analyse the influence of the N source on in vitro CH4 production. The two substrates were mixtures of maize starch and cellulose in proportions of 75:25 and 25:75 ( STAR and CEL substrates, respectively), and the three nitrogen (N) sources were ammonia ( NH4Cl), casein ( CA) and isolated soya bean protein ( SP). Five isonitrogenous treatments were made by replacing non-protein-N ( NPN) with CA or SP at levels of 0 ( NPN), 50 ( CA50 and SP50, respectively) and 100% ( CA100 and SP100) of total N. All N treatments were applied at a rate of 35 mg of N/g of substrate organic matter and incubations lasted 16.5 h. With both proteins, N source × substrate interactions (p = 0.065 to 0.002) were detected for CH4 production and CH4/total VFA ratio. The increases in CH4 production observed by replacing the NPN with protein-N were higher (p < 0.05) for STAR than for CEL substrate, but the opposite was observed for the increases in volatile fatty acid ( VFA) production. As a consequence, replacing the NPN by increased levels of CA or SP led to linear increases (p < 0.05) in CH4/total VFA ratio with STAR, whereas CH4/total VFA ratio tended (p < 0.10) to be decreased with CEL substrate. Increasing the amount of both proteins decreased linearly (p < 0.05) ammonia-N concentrations, which may indicate an incorporation of amino acids and peptides into microbial protein without being first deaminated into ammonia-N. In incubations with the tested N sources as the only substrate, the fermentation of 1 mg of CA or SP produced 1.24 and 0.60 μmol of CH4 respectively. The results indicate the generation of CH4 from protein fermentation, and that the response of CH4 production to protein-N supply may differ with the basal substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study for the first time reports on fresh water microalgae Chlorella minutissima aqueous extract (CmAe) which was utilized for the biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles and tested their antineoplastic potential against Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HepG2) cell line. The characteristic colour change of the reaction mixture from greenish yellow to yellowish brown confirmed the synthesis of Chlorella minutissima silver nanoparticles (CmAgNPs). Microscopic analysis revealed CmAgNPs to be spherical‐shaped with particle size ranging from 10 to 30 nm. The carbohydrates and proteins distinctive peaks were observed in Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra which suggested these biomolecules acted as reducing and capping agents. Further, the crystalline nature of CmAgNPs was confirmed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. CmAgNPs showed maximum free radical scavenging proving it to be more potent antioxidant agent as compared to CmAe. The mortality rate of HepG2 cells treated with CmAgNPs was found to be 91.8 % at 120 μg/ml with IC50 value 12.42 ± 1.096 μg/ml after 48 h whereas no effect was observed on normal Human Embryonic Kidney (HEK 293) cells. Fluorescent images of the treated HepG2 cells revealed the formation of apoptotic bodies, condensed nuclei and cell shrinkage indicating their effectiveness against the cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the kinetics of hydrolyzed collagen extraction from the scales of the croaker fish ( Pseudotolitus elongatus) at temperature ranging from 60°C to 90°C. Extraction was carried out using hydrothermal treatment over a period of 8 hr, during which the mass of hydrolyzed collagen extracted was obtained every hour. The rate order of extraction was temperature-dependent within the times investigated. At 60°C no measurable extraction was achieved, between 70°C and 80°C the extraction was a zero order while at 90°C and 100°C the extraction was a first order process. The rate constants for 70, 80, 90 and 100°C were 0.56 g s−1, 1.03 g s−1, 0.019 s−1 and 0.04 s-1, respectively. The overall yield increased as temperature is increased with the highest increase in yield occurring between 90 and 100°C. The yield increased from 6% at 70°C to 30% at 100°C, thus indicating that temperature has significant effect on the yield as well as kinetics. These findings are relevant in the predictive assessment as well as design and optimization of processes for extraction of hydrolyzed collagen from fish scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Due to their low carbohydrate and high antioxidant content, eggplants are beneficial for the human diet. At <15 °C, pollen production and fertility are reduced and plant-growth regulators may be used to set seedless fruit. Because only the agronomic effects of hormone are well-documented, we investigated the composition and metabolism during the development/maturation of seed-containing and seedless fruits of two cultivars grown over two seasons. RESULTS The respiration rate of both seedless and seed-containing fruit decreased with development and maturation. In seedless fruit, starch content decreased at market maturity, whereas in seed-containing fruit starch increased. Respiration and starch were higher in spring-summer than in autumn-winter. Disaccharides were highest at market maturity, with sucrose generally higher in seed-containing fruit; monosaccharides were variable and protein content was reduced in seedless fruit. Phenols closely correlated with antioxidant activity and decreased with development; at market maturity in spring-summer phenols were higher in seedless fruit (Tsakoniki) or unaffected (Emi). Polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase activities were mostly higher in seed-containing fruit, but browning was higher in seedless fruit. CONCLUSIONS Notwithstanding reduced protein and increased browning, seedless fruit at market maturity presented less starch, hence fewer calories, and more antioxidants (phenols) for the human diet than the corresponding seed-containing fruit. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein aggregation is commonly associated with the onset and development of neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and other forms of pathological disorders. While this phenomenon has historically been studied in the context of its relevance to human health, over the past decade significant research effort has focused on utilizing amyloid-like protein assemblies as building blocks for the development of functional biomaterials and a number of protein-based functional materials have been demonstrated. Here we extend this concept by synthesizing hybrid organic/inorganic microcapsules containing metal-based NPs and protein nanofibrils as a nanocomposite. To this effect, we exploit the propensity of lysozyme to self-assemble into amyloid nanofibrils and their functionalization by carboxyl-modified Fe3O4 NPs. We use a microfluidics-based approach to control the micron scale moprhology of the newly formed nanocomposites. Our results illustrate the potential ofthis strategy as a platform for fabricating microcapsules from nanofibril-inorganic NPs hybrid materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The protein content and amino acid profile of Anchote ( Coccinia abyssinica) leaves and tubers were determined from ten different accessions taken from Debre Zeit Agricultural Research Center, Ethiopia. Crude protein content was determined by Kjeldahl method and amino acid profile was analyzed using performic acid oxidation and acid hydrolysis by ninhydrin-derivatized analysis with amino acid analyzer. Crude protein content of Anchote tuber ranged from 10.70% ± 0.26% to 13.72% ± 0.10%, whereas the crude protein content in leaves were ranged between 30.38 ± 0.01% ('240407-1') and 35.42 ± 0.05% ('223109-1'). Total amino acid content ranged from 45.12 to 62.89 and 67.31 to 75.69 g/100 g protein for tuber and leaf samples, respectively. The mean values of essential, conditionally essential and nonessential amino acids were 37.22 & 36.79%; 28.62 & 24.10%; and 34.16 & 39.11% for tubers and leaves, respectively. Arginine in tubers and glutamic acid in leaves ranked the highest of all amino acids; while the least dominant essential amino acid was methionine in both parts. Among the essential amino acids, leucine was dominant in all accessions tested with values ranged from 3.12 to 5.32 g/100 g protein in tubers and from 5.15 to 5.65 g/100 g protein in leaves. In general, the average amino acid content was higher in the leaves (71.08 g/100 g protein) compared to the tubers (51.11 g/100 g protein). The nutritional quality of Coccinia abyssinica leaves and tubers range as follows: total essential amino acids ( TEAA)/ total amino acids ( TAA) (37.57 & 36.82%), TEAA/total non-essential amino acids (TNEAA) ratio (0.60 & 0.58), The predicted protein efficiency ratio (P-PER) (1.22 & 1.80), Essential amino acid index ( EAAI) (35.28 & 53.93%), Predicted biological value (P-BV) (26.76 & 47.09%), Nutritional index (4.11 & 17.71%), and Amino acid score (73 & 108) for tuber and leaf sample, respectively. A significant variability was observed in protein and amino acid profile among accessions and plant parts, and the leaf part were found to be richer in protein content and associated nutritional quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein hydrolysis is widely used in the food industry to improve food or industrial quality, and processing is carried out concurrently or subsequently to starch pasting. Inthis study,QTLmapping of the pasting properties of natural wheat flour (NWF) and papain-treated flour (PTF) was performed in three environments. These analyses involved a set of 173 F9:10 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from "Shannong01-35×Gaocheng9411" witha genetic linkagemapconsisting of 6248 molecular markers. The additive, epistatic, and epistatic×environment interaction effects of QTLs for pasting properties were analyzed. A total of 43 and 31 additive QTLs for pasting properties were detected using NWF and PTF, respectively. QPv1A.4-1, QPv4B.4-17, QTv1A.4-1, QTv4B.4-17, QSb4B.4-17, QPt1A.4-1, and QPt4B.4-17 were identified using both NWFand PTF. In contrast, QPv6A.2-128, QTv6A.2-128, QFv6A.2-75, and QBd6A.2-128 were only identified in wheat flour; thus, these QTLs are related to the papain digestion site. Five and eight pairs of epistatic interaction QTLs were identified in NWF and PTF, respectively. QPv1A.4-1/QPv4B.4-17 and QTv1A.4-1/QTv4B.4-17 were identified in NWF and PTF, whereas, QInA1A.4-1 and QInA4B.4-17 were only detected in PTF. Two and three pairs of epistatic×environment interactions were detected inNWFandPTF, respectively. In the present study, two importantQTLclusters (≥3QTLs) were detected from NWF, and three clusters were detected from PTF. The results of the comprehensive evaluation of protein hydrolysis and starch pasting provide valuable information to facilitate the improvement of wheat flour quality and promote the molecular breeding of wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antioxidant system loss after slaughtering, reactive species production, cell disruption, contact with oxygen and light, heme and nonheme iron, and irradiation starts up mainly by 2 related oxidative processes: lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation. Products generated in these processes are responsible for meat quality loss, and some of them are suspected to be toxic to humans. This review article is focused on reactive species implicated in oxidative processes in meat, on lipid peroxidation mechanisms, heme protein, and nonheme protein oxidation, and on some toxic oxidation and digestion products. Nonenzymatic fatty acid peroxidation is exemplified by an arachidonic acyl group, and the initiation of chain reaction can be described by 3 pathways: singlet oxygen, hydroxyl radical from the Fenton reaction, and perferrylmyoglobin. Enzymatic oxidation of fatty acids is exemplified using linoleic acid, and the main characteristics of lipoxygenase are also presented. Heme protein oxidation is described in an interrelation with lipid peroxidation and the significance for food quality is shown. For protein oxidation, 3 different mechanism types are described: oxidation of amino acid residues, oxidation of protein backbone, and reactions of proteins with carbonyl compounds from lipid peroxidation. The effects of oxidative damage on protein properties and bioavailability are also shown. At the end of each oxidative process, the postprandial toxicity induced by oxidation products and the dietary degradation products are presented. Also discussed are reports by some researchers who suggest that dietary lipid and protein oxidation products and heme iron from red meat are in part cytotoxic and/or genotoxic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many insect species, the differentiation of development between diapause and reproduction first becomes obvious during the diapause preparation (pre-diapause) and pre-oviposition phases. However, the differentiation of nutrient accumulation between these two phases remains unclear. We compared the weights of pre-diapause and reproductive adult female Colaphellus bowringi Baly ( Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), and measured their triacylglycerol ( TAG), protein, and carbohydrate content from emergence until they had fed for 4 days post-eclosion. We also compared the ovarian development and accumulation of lipid droplets between pre-diapause and reproductive adult females in order to determine whether we could visually detect differences in nutrient allocation. The weights of both pre-diapause and reproductive females increased with duration of feeding. The fresh weight and water content of pre-diapause females was significantly lower than that of reproductive females after feeding for 3 days post-eclosion. Pre-diapause females channeled their reserves into TAG in the fat body, whereas reproductive females converted nutrients into proteins and carbohydrates for egg development. These results quantify differences in nutrient accumulation between pre-diapause and reproductive adult female C. bowringi, and provide clues for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying differences in the allocation of nutrients between diapause and reproduction in insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND The efficiency of protein purification depends on membrane pore size and electrostatic repulsion between a protein and membrane surface. The current study investigates how deliberate protein modification affects the electrostatic repulsion, degree of protein separation and transmembrane flux. RESULTS The experiments were performed with bovine serum albumin ( BSA) modified by guanidation, succinylation and citraconation. The latter modification is reversible and can be used to improve the protein separation. Modified and native proteins were filtrated through polyethersulphone PES-20 membrane in dead-end and cross-flow filtration modes at pH 5-10. Guanidation diminished electronegativity of the protein. In dead-end mode, the relative flux in separation of modified BSA decreased to 0.45-0.7 of the flux of pure water over 27.5 min. In the case of unmodified BSA, the average relative flux drop was 0.3-0.5. The separation of guanidated BSA increased on average by 11% in acidic conditions. Succinylation and citraconation increased BSA electronegativity. The average flux remained close to the flux of pure water declining by 0.2-0.4, and the separation was greater than 95% at alkaline conditions in both dead-end and cross-flow operational modes. CONCLUSION Suggested modifications do not require changes in chemistry of bulk suspensions and membranes, but do increase protein rejection keeping high transmembrane flux. The suggested approach is novel and holds the promise of achieving the purity level of therapeutic proteins required by drug authorities. Under the conditions investigated the best results were observed for succinylation and filtration in cross-flow mode at pH 5-10. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To describe the use of ProcalAmine as a source of parenteral nutrition in hospitalized dogs and to report complications possibly referable to its use. Design Retrospective study. Settings Private veterinary teaching hospital. Animals Thirty-six dogs hospitalized in ICU receiving ProcalAmine between October 2010 and March 2013. Interventions None. Measurements and Main Results The most common underlying disease process in this population of dogs was trauma ( n = 8). Median duration of administration was 4 days and median resting energy requirement provided via ProcalAmine was 33%. ProcalAmine was administered via central catheters in 86% of cases and via peripheral catheters in 14% of cases. The overall mechanical complication rate was 19%. Metabolic complications possibly associated with ProcalAmine administration were documented in 12/36 dogs. Hyponatremia was most commonly identified ( n = 6) followed by hyperglycemia ( n = 4), hypochloremia ( n = 2), azotemia ( n = 2), metabolic alkalosis ( n = 2), hyperchloremia ( n = 1), and metabolic acidosis ( n = 1). Conclusion ProcalAmine appears to be relatively safe and a viable option for parenteral nutrition in ill and injured dogs. Due to the potential for electrolyte derangements and other metabolic complications, daily monitoring of these parameters is advisable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of l-homoarginine on the heat-induced aggregation of three model proteins, i.e. porcine, mink, and human growth hormones was investigated by circular dichroism spectroscopy. It was found that the effect of l-homoarginine as an analogue of arginine depends on the concentration of the additive as well as the protein itself. l-Homoarginine increased the onset temperature of heat-induced aggregation of both porcine and mink growth hormones. However, the formation of human growth hormone aggregates was increased at low concentrations of l-homoarginine. Only at higher concentrations of the additive was the onset temperature of human growth hormone aggregation found to increase. Additional experiments of human growth hormone melting in the presence of histidine, lysine, and sodium chloride were performed. The effect of lysine was similar as in the presence of l-homoarginine. It follows that in protein formulations low concentrations of amino acids should be used with some precaution. At low concentration of additive, depending on the charge of both protein and amino acid used, the promotion of aggregation of unfolding intermediates may occur. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 31:808-814, 2015 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In biomedical and drug delivery treatments, protein Ca2+ ‐ATPase in the lipid bilayer (plasma) membrane plays a key role by reducing multidrug resistance of the cancerous cells. The lipid bilayer membrane and the protein Ca2+ ‐ATPase were simulated by utilising the Gromacs software and by applying the all‐atom/united atom and coarse‐grained models. The initial structure of Ca2+ ‐ATPase was derived from X‐ray diffraction and electron microscopy patterns and was placed in a simulated bilayer membrane of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine. The conformational changes were investigated by evaluating the root mean square deviation, root mean square fluctuation, order parameter, diffusion coefficients, partial density, thickness and area per lipid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bacterial genomes are compacted by association with histonelike proteins to form a complex known as bacterial chromatin. The histonelike protein HU is capable of binding and bending the DNA molecule, a function related to compaction, protection, and regulation of gene expression. In Helicobacter pylori, HU is the only histone-like protein described so far. Proteomic analysis from our laboratory showed that this protein is overexpressed under acidic stress. Materials and Methods: We used a purified recombinant wild-type protein and two mutant proteins with the amino acid substitutions K3A/S27D and K62R/V63N/P64A to characterize the function of the N-terminal domain and the flexible arm of HU. Results: In vitro assays for DNA protection, bending, and compaction were performed. We also designed a H. pylori hup::cat mutant strain to study the role of HU in the acid stress response. HUwt protein binds DNA and promotes its bending and compaction. Compared with the wild-type protein, both mutant proteins have less affinity for DNA and an impaired bending and compaction ability. By using qRT-PCR, we confirmed overexpression of two genes related to acid stress response (ureA and speA). Such overexpression was abolished in the hup::cat strain, which shows an acid-sensitive phenotype. Conclusions: Altogether, we have shown that HUwt-DNA complex formation is favored under acidic pH and that the complex protects DNA from endonucleolytic cleavage and oxidative stress damage. We also showed that the amino-terminal domain of HU is relevant to DNA-protein complex formation and that the flexible arm of HU is involved in the bending and compaction activities of HU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Microbial corrected effective in situ estimates of ruminal undegraded fraction ( RU) and intestinal effective digestibility ( IED) of dry matter ( DM), crude protein ( CP) and amino acids ( AA) of expeller palm kernel ( EPK) and rapeseed meal ( RSM) were measured on three rumen- and duodenum-cannulated wethers using 15N labelling techniques and considering ruminal rates of comminution ( kc) and outflow ( kp) of particles. RESULTS The lack of kc and microbial correction overestimated the RU of DM by 4.91% ( EPK) and 9.88% ( RSM). The lack of this correction also overestimated in both feeds the RU of CP, individual and total ( TAA) AA as well as the IED of DM, CP, TAA and most AA. RU estimates were higher for CP than for TAA, but the opposite was observed for IED. The intestinal digested fraction was higher for CP than for TAA: 17.4% ( EPK) and 13.8% ( RSM). Digestion led to large changes in the essential AA profile in both feeds. CONCLUSION The lack of kc and microbial correction as well as CP-based results leads to considerable overestimations in the protein use of both feeds. Digestion aggravates the lysine deficiency of EPK but has global positive effects in the absorbed profile of RSM. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge-based scoring functions are widely used for assessing putative complexes in protein-ligand and protein-protein docking and for structure prediction. Even with large training sets, knowledge-based scoring functions face the inevitable problem of sparse data. Here, we have developed a novel approach for handling the sparse data problem that is based on estimating the inaccuracies in knowledge-based scoring functions. This inaccuracy estimation is used to automatically weight the knowledge-based scoring function with an alternative, force-field-based potential (FFP) that does not rely on training data and can, therefore, provide an improved approximation of the interactions between rare chemical groups. The current version of STScore, a protein-ligand scoring function using our method, achieves a binding mode prediction success rate of 91% on the set of 100 complexes by Wang et al., and a binding affinity correlation of 0.514 with the experimentally determined affinities in PDBbind. The method presented here may be used with other FFPs and other knowledge-based scoring functions and can also be applied to protein-protein docking and protein structure prediction. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background New evidence indicates that increased dietary protein ingestion promotes health and recovery from illness, and also maintains functionality in older adults. The present study aimed to investigate whether a novel food service concept with protein-supplementation would increase protein and energy intake in hospitalised patients at nutritional risk. Methods A single-blinded randomised controlled trial was conducted. Eighty-four participants at nutritional risk, recruited from the departments of Oncology, Orthopaedics and Urology, were included. The intervention group ( IG) received the protein-supplemented food service concept. The control group ( CG) received the standard hospital menu. Primary outcome comprised the number of patients achieving ≥75% of energy and protein requirements. Secondary outcomes comprised mean energy and protein intake, body weight, handgrip strength and length of hospital stay. Results In IG, 76% versus 70% CG patients reached ≥75% of their energy requirements ( P = 0.57); 66% IG versus 30% CG patients reached ≥75% of their protein requirements ( P = 0.001). The risk ratio for achieving ≥75% of protein requirements: 2.2 (95% confidence interval = 1.3-3.7); number needed to treat = 3 (95% confidence interval = 2-6). IG had a higher mean intake of energy and protein when adjusted for body weight (CG: 82 kJ kg−1 versus IG: 103 kJ kg−1, P = 0.013; CG: 0.7 g protein kg−1 versus 0.9 g protein kg−1, P = 0.003). Body weight, handgrip strength and length of hospital stay did not differ between groups. Conclusions The novel food service concept had a significant positive impact on overall protein intake and on weight-adjusted energy intake in hospitalised patients at nutritional risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims/Introduction The interactive effects of resistance training and dietary protein on hormonal responses in adults are not clear and remain controversial. We tested the effect of an isocaloric high-protein diet on body composition, ghrelin, and metabolic and hormonal parameters during a 12-week resistance training program in untrained healthy young men. Material and Methods We randomized 18 healthy young men to a standard diet ( ST group) or an isocaloric high protein diet ( HP group). Both groups participated in a 12-week resistance exercise program. We measured body composition, lipid profile, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance ( HOMA- IR) indices, total ghrelin, and exercise-related hormones at baseline and 12 weeks. Results In the HP group, lean body mass ( LBM), total ghrelin, growth hormone, testosterone and cortisol levels showed an increase, whereas body fat percentage and HOMA- IR showed a decrease at 12 weeks, compared with baseline ( P ≤ 0.05). In the ST group, no changes in these parameters were observed during the 12-week period. During the 12-week period, significant differences in the pattern of change of LBM ( P = 0.032), total ghrelin ( P = 0.037), HOMA- IR ( P = 0.040) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ( P = 0.011) over time were observed between the groups. Conclusions The findings of the present study suggest that an isocaloric high-protein diet can ameliorate body composition, metabolic profiles and energy metabolism during a 12-week scheduled resistance training program in untrained healthy young men. This trial was registered with (no. NCT01714700). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The soybean [ Glycine max (L.) Merr.] is grown worldwide for its high protein and oil contents. Characterization of soybean seed components lends itself to understanding how soybean production can meet the needs of a growing world population. For this article, literature was reviewed and condensed to create a well-rounded picture of the current understanding of structural, functional, and nutritional properties of soybean components. Natural variation in soybean protein, lipid, and carbohydrate components, as well as the minor constituents phytic acid and isoflavones, are mentioned. Environment- or genetic-induced shifts in natural variation are described with respect to nutrition and functional improvements in soybean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic biomaterials were prepared using magnetite and chitosan-coated magnetite nanoparticles ( CSNPs) dispersed in poly(vinyl alcohol) gels. Two different methods were developed to obtain ferrogels: in situ co-precipitation of magnetite (Ferro- IS) and by adding previously synthesized CSNPs to the neat matrix (Ferro- CSNPs). In both cases, the crosslinking was carried out by freezing − thawing (F-T). The as-prepared materials as well as precursor CSNPs were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, electronic microscopy (scanning and transmission), X-ray diffraction, ζ potential, dynamic light scattering, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry and magnetic properties. The performance of these gels as protein adsorbents was evaluated. Batch adsorption experiments were carried out using bovine serum albumin ( BSA) as a model. Substantially different adsorption behaviour was found using Ferro- IS and Ferro- CSNPs. This was assigned to dissimilar bonding mechanisms of BSA to the ferrogel matrix. Hence, biomaterials potentially useful in drug delivery as well as in protein purification fields may be prepared by a relatively simple, non-toxic and low cost method. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well recognised that ingestion of food is a trigger for functional bowel symptoms, particularly those associated with irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS). Patients often use manipulation of diet as a means of controlling symptoms. Despite description of multiple dietary methods, few have scientific backing or quality evidence of efficacy. One approach is to define how specific food components influence the pathophysiology of IBS and then rationally design dietary approaches. For example, short-chain poorly absorbed carbohydrates (fermentable oligo-, di- and mono-saccharides and polyols ( FODMAP)) cause luminal distension, which is a major stimulus for the development of symptoms in patients with visceral hypersensitivity. By determining food content of FODMAP, a diet in which foods low in FODMAP are favoured over those high in FODMAP can be designed. Observational, comparative and randomised controlled treatment and rechallenge studies have shown that such an approach is efficacious in the majority of patients with IBS. The low FODMAP diet is now the primary dietary therapy for such patients. Similar approaches can be applied to other food components, including proteins (such as gluten), fats and natural bioactive food chemicals. Such approaches have suggestions of efficacy, but the evidence base remains underdeveloped. An additional and important consideration for any dietary therapy is its nutritional adequacy and potential adverse health effects. Dietary manipulation is now a key management strategy in patients with functional bowel symptoms. Future well-designed interventional studies will lead to refinement of dietary approaches taken and to a better understanding of their long-term safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The author discusses the difference in the construction of engineering materials from proteins and synthetic polymers. He explains that monomer sequences in proteins make complex hierarchical structures in engineering materials while synthetic polymers are unable to do so and states that properties of proteins and polymers determine the structure and functions of materials. Several diagrams are presented including polymer and protein sequence, and polymer and protein conformation.

The study was aimed at evaluating the effect of nanosilica and different sources of silicon on soil properties, total bacterial population and maize seed germination. Nanosilica was synthesised using rice husk and characterised. Silica powder was amorphous (50 nm) with >99.9% purity. Sodium silicate treated soil inhibited plant growth promoting rhizobacteria in contrast to nanosilica and other bulk sources. Surface property and effect of soil nutrient content of nanosilica treatment were improved. Colony forming unit (CFU) was doubled in the presence of nanosilica from 4 × 105 CFU (control) to 8 × 105 CFU per gram of soil. The silica and protein content of bacterial biomass clearly showed an increase in uptake of silica with an increase in nanosilica concentration. Nanosilica promoted seed germination percentage (100%) in maize than conventional Si sources. These studies show that nanosilica has favourable effect on beneficial bacterial population and nutrient value of soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study tried to determine the protein and energy requirements of growing beluga sturgeon Huso huso using a factorial approach. The experiment was composed of four small-scale growth trails covering different weight ranges. The fish fed at 0, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100% of satiation. DWG had a steady increase throughout the experiment following a non-linear equation as Y = 1.433 (±0.056) × Ln(X) −2.740 (±0.261); r 2 = 0.99, p < 0.001, where Y = weight gain (g/day) and X = fish weight (g). The daily requirement of digestible energy (DE) for maintenance amounted to 79.09 kJ × BW (kg)0.8. The daily requirement of DP for maintenance calculated as 0.93 g × BW (kg)0.7. The relationship between DE intake (X) and DE gain (Y) expressed as Y = −0.0004 (±0.000) X2 + 0.600 (±0.082) X −44.95 (± 6.72). Also, the relationship between DP intake (X) and protein gain (Y) was expressed as Y = −0.019 (±0.006) X2 + 0.548 (±0.062) X − 0.498 (±0.121). The daily requirements of energy and protein were estimated as 79.09 kJ × BW (kg)0.8 + 2.94 × DE gain and 0.93 g × BW (kg)0.7 + 2.63 × DP gain. Apparently, beluga sturgeon is inefficient in converting energy and protein into body tissue. Therefore, energy content of the diet should be sufficiently high to satisfy large energy demands in beluga sturgeon and also to reduce the catabolism of protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumer appeal for ready-to-eat (RTE) products is forecast to grow rapidly over the next 5 years as consumers demand convenient snacks with exciting sensory and textural properties. Extrusion technology has been used extensively in the production of cereal RTE snacks due to its ease of operation and ability to produce a variety of textures and shapes which appeal to consumers. Many of the existing RTE products are relatively high in sugar and salt, thus being regarded as energy dense but nutritionally poor foods. However, there exists a potential to manipulate the nutritional status of extruded RTEs by altering the digestion potentials of starch and protein, and by the incorporation of bioactive components such as dietary fibre. The review article explores some of the recent research in this field and illustrates opportunities by which the global food industry could react to consumers' requirements for healthful RTE snack products in the coming years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eur J Clin Invest 2012 Abstract Background Angiogenesis is a prerequisite for tumour development, progression and metastasis; however, its underlying molecular mechanisms in endometrial carcinoma are poorly understood. Design In this study, the mRNA and protein expression profiles of two key regulators of angiogenesis, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGFB1), were evaluated by real-time PCR and western blot analysis in 23 endometrial cancer tissue-paired specimens (malignant vs. adjacent normal tissues). We aimed to investigate whether VEGF and TGFB1 serve as markers of the malignant transformation of the endometrium and whether VEGF or TGFB1 expression can constitute a useful prognostic marker of survival in patients with endometrial carcinoma. Results Tissue-pair analysis revealed VEGF transcriptional up-regulation and TGFB1 mRNA down-regulation as the most frequent transcriptional features. VEGF and TGFB1 mRNA were positively correlated ( P < 0·001). VEGF protein levels were higher in endometrioid-type tissue pairs ( P = 0·047). TGFB1 protein and mRNA levels were negatively correlated ( P = 0·042). TGFB1 protein expression was related to survival only in patients with endometrioid adenocarcinoma ( P = 0·045). Conclusions Tissue-pair mRNA and protein analysis reveals VEGF transcriptional up-regulation and TGFB1 down-regulation that are correlated with the malignant transformation of the endometrium, while post-transcriptional mechanisms control VEGF and TGFB1 protein. TGFB1 protein demonstrated a prognostic value only in endometrioid adenocarcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hand rearing of neonates is a common practice for the propagation of psittacines. However, nutritional requirements for their growth and development are not well understood, and malnutrition is common. We analysed the amino acid (AA) profile of the crop contents of 19 free-living scarlet macaw ( Ara macao) chicks, 19-59 days old. Predicted metabolizable energy (PME) density was 16.9 MJ/kg DM and true protein (total AA protein) 8.3 g/MJ PME. Crude protein (CP) was 10.0 g/MJ PME, lower than the requirements of 0- to 12-week-old leghorn chicks but not different than the requirements of growing budgerigars ( Melopsittacus undulatus) and lovebirds ( Agapornis spp.). The mean concentrations of leucine, isoleucine, threonine, lysine (Lys) and methionine on a PME basis were below the minimum requirements of 0- to 12-week-old leghorn-type chicks. The calculated PME density of the samples did not vary with age. However, there was a significant negative correlation between the average age of the chicks and the Lys concentration. We conclude that the lower CP and AA densities compared with poultry could result from a combination of (i) differences in the essential AA composition of the body tissues, (ii) adaptations that allow the birds to grow on low-protein food sources and (iii) suboptimal nutrition of these free-ranging chicks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analyses are routinely used in biology laboratories to detect aggregates in macromolecular solutions, to determine the size of proteins, nucleic acids, and complexes or to monitor the binding of ligands. This article is written for graduate and undergraduate students with access to DLS and for faculty members who wish to incorporate DLS into a lab activity, a practical course or research. It reviews the basic concepts of light scattering measurements and addresses four critical aspects of the analysis and interpretation of DLS results. To ensure reproducible quantitative data, attention should be paid to controlling the preparation and handling of proteins or assemblies because variations in the state of aggregation, induced by minor changes in experimental condition or technique, might compromise DLS results and affect protein activity. Variables like temperature, solvent viscosity, and inter-particle interactions may also influence particle size determination. Every point is illustrated by case studies, including a commercially available albumin, a small RNA virus isolated from plants, as well as four soluble proteins and a ribonucleoprotein assembly purified and characterized by students in the frame of their master degree. © 2012 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nutritional status of a woman before and during pregnancy is important for a healthy pregnancy outcome. Maternal malnutrition is a key contributor to poor fetal growth, low birthweight (LBW) and short- and long-term infant morbidity and mortality. This review summarised the evidence on association of maternal nutrition with birth outcomes along with review of effects of balanced protein-energy supplementation during pregnancy. A literature search was conducted on PubMed, WHOLIS, PAHO and Cochrane library. Only intervention studies were considered for inclusion and data were combined by meta-analyses if available from more than one study. Sixteen intervention studies were included in the review. Pooled analysis showed a positive impact of balanced protein-energy supplementation on birthweight compared with control [mean difference 73 (g) [95% confidence interval (CI) 30, 117]]. This effect was more pronounced in undernourished women compared with adequately nourished women. Combined data from five studies showed a reduction of 32% in the risk of LBW in the intervention group compared with control [relative risk (RR) 0.68 [95% CI 0.51, 0.92]]. There was a reduction of 34% in the risk of small-for-gestational-age babies in the intervention compared with the control group [RR 0.66 [95% CI 0.49, 0.89]]. The risk of stillbirth was also reduced by 38% in the intervention group compared with control [RR 0.62 [95% CI 0.40, 0.98]]. In conclusion, balanced protein-energy supplementation is an effective intervention to reduce the prevalence of LBW and small-for-gestational-age births, especially in undernourished women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship of calorie and protein intake to the severity of oral mucositis in patients with head and neck cancer receiving radiation therapy. Methods Patients with head and neck cancer undergoing ≥60 Gy of radiation were eligible. Weekly data were collected for oral mucositis grade and protein and calorie intake. Proportional odds models examined the association of oral mucositis severity with nutritional predictors. Results During a 24-month period, 40 evaluable patients met criteria for inclusion. In a multivariate backward selection model, the sole significant nutritional predictor of reduced oral mucositis severity was meeting the protein goal for the current week ( p = .01; adjusted odds ratio [OR], 2.30). Conclusion Patients who met protein-related goals during radiotherapy for head and neck cancer had less severe oral mucositis. Nutritional counseling during radiotherapy, with emphasis on protein goals, may reduce oral mucositis severity. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Therapeutic biologics are often administered based on body size. A previous study has found that fixed dosing performs similarly to body size–based dosing in reducing intersubject variability in drug exposure across the mAbs studied. This study extended this evaluation to other therapeutic proteins and peptides. Eighteen therapeutic proteins and peptides with published population pharmacokinetic (PK) and/or pharmacodynamic (PD) models were selected for dosing approach evaluation. The relationships between body size and drug exposure (and PD end point when available) were evaluated, and simulation studies were conducted to compare the performance of the 2 dosing approaches. The results showed that fixed dosing performed better for 12 of 18 selected biologics in terms of reducing intersubject variability in exposure at both population and individual levels, whereas body size–based dosing performed better for the other 6 molecules. This result is consistent with the findings for mAbs. Therefore, fixed dosing is recommended for first-in-human studies of proteins and peptides along with mAbs. The final dosing approach for phase 3 studies should be determined based on a full assessment of body size effect on PK/PD when data are available and the therapeutic window of the drug. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Micropatterns of proteins were created by using patterned ion beam irradiation onto a polyethylene film and graft polymerization of acrylic acid. Acrylic acid was selectively graft polymerized on the irradiated regions. The results of the grafting study revealed that the optimum fluence to achieve the maximum grafting degree was 1 × 1015 ions/cm2. Biotin was covalently immobilized on the grafted regions of the polyethylene film. Protein patterning was achieved through specific binding of biotin and streptavidin. The resolved protein patterns with the maximum fluorescence intensity were achieved on the poly(acrylic acid) (PAA)-grafted polyethylene films prepared at the fluence of 1 × 1015 ions/cm2. This method can be used for patterning of various biomolecules and for further biological applications. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isoelectric precipitation and whey nanofiltration were evaluated in recovering protein from skim fractions produced by enzyme-assisted aqueous extraction processing (EAEP) of extruded full-fat soybean flakes. Countercurrent two-stage EAEP was performed at 1:6 solids-to-liquid ratio, 50 °C, pH 9.0, and 120 rpm for 1 h to extract oil and protein from soybeans. Two protein recovery strategies were applied to skim fractions produced by different extraction treatments: Treatment 1 using 0.5% protease (wt/g extruded flakes) in both extraction stages; Treatment 2 using 0.5% protease only in the 2nd extraction stage; and Treatment 3 using no enzyme in either extraction stage. Protein recovery by using isoelectric precipitation was inversely related to the extent of hydrolysis with recoveries of 27, 61, and 87% of skim proteins from Treatments 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Overall protein recoveries of 26, 54, and 57% of the original protein in the extruded full-fat flakes were achieved when combining extraction treatments and isoelectric precipitation. Nanofiltering isoelectric wheys (500-Da membrane) achieved protein retentate yields of 96.3, 94.5, and 91.8% (1.9-2.8 concentration factor) with permeate fluxes up to 1.35 kg/h m. About 97, 98, and 99% of skim protein were recovered by isoelectric precipitation and whey nanofiltration for Treatments 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Overall protein recoveries of 93, 87, and 65% of the protein in the extruded flakes were achieved for Treatments 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Although high protein retentions were achieved, very low permeate fluxes were observed for whey nanofiltration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This communication describes the synthesis and structure of multilayered protein nanotubes bearing a magnetite (Fe3O4) surface exterior, and their binding capability for zinc(II)-protoporphyrin IX (ZnPP) in aqueous medium. The nanotubes were fabricated using an alternating layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly of human serum albumin (HSA) and poly-L-arginine (PLA) in a track-etched polycarbonate (PC) membrane (pore size, 400 nm), which had been precoated in advance with Fe3O4 nanoparticles. Dissolution of the PC template yielded Fe3O4(PLA/HSA)3 nanotubes. SEM measurements revealed the formation of uniform hollow cylinders with 417 ± 16 nm outer diameter and 56 ± 7 nm wall thickness. TEM observations confirmed the homogeneous outer surface of Fe3O4. In an aqueous medium, the nanotubes captured ZnPP into the swollen wall. The ZnPP-loaded protein nanotubes were collected by exposure to a magnetic field. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]