Techno-functional properties and antioxidant capacity of the concentrate and protein fractions of Leucaena spp. seeds / Propiedades tecno-funcionales y capacidad antioxidante del concentrado y fracciones proteicas de semillas de Leucaena spp

Introduction: The use of vegetable proteins as ingredients in food systems is based on their functional properties. The water and oil holding capacity, foaming, and emulsifying capacity/stability, and antioxidant assay of the protein fractions - albumins, globulins 7S/11S, glutelins and prolamins - isolated from Leucaena seed were evaluated. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the functional properties and antioxidant capacity of the concentrate and protein fractions of ripe Leucaena spp. seeds. Materials and methods: Ripe Leucaena seeds were collected and evaluated in Oaxaca, Mexico (16°59'21''N 96°43'26''O) during the months of February-April 2021.The protein concentrate was isolated by isoelectric precipitation (pH=9, pH=4). The albumins, globulins, glutelins and prolamins were isolated based on their solubility properties in different extracting solutions. Results: Glutelins constituted the main protein fraction (75.88%). Prolamins were not found. The glutelins fractions showed the highest oil holding capacity (0.93±0.08 mL g-1). The albumins fraction had the highest water holding capacity (2.53±0.15 mL g-1), foaming capacity and foam stability (71.83±1.26 % and 70.00±0.00%, respectively) and antioxidant capacity (18.09±0.88%). The globulins exhibited the highest emulsifying capacity and emulsion stability (56.83±1.76% and 55.67±1.20%, respectively). Conclusions: The concentrate and protein fraction of Leucaena seeds showed different techno-functional and antioxidant properties of interest for the food industry, like those showed by other commercial vegetable proteins(AU)

Introducción: El uso de proteínas vegetales como ingredientes en sistemas alimentarios se basa en sus propiedades funcionales. Se evaluó la capacidad de retención de agua y aceite, la capacidad/estabilidad espumante y emulsionante y el ensayo antioxidante de las fracciones proteicas -albúminas, globulinas 7S/11S, glutelinas y prolaminas- aisladas de las semillas de Leucaena. Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar las propiedades funcionales y la capacidad antioxidante del concentrado y las fracciones proteicas de las semillas maduras de Leucaena spp. Materiales y métodos: Las semillas maduras de Leucaena fueron recolectadas y evaluadas en Oaxaca, México (16°59'21''N 96°43'26''O) durante los meses de febrero-abril del año 2021. Se usó harina de Leucaena desgrasada para la preparación de las fracciones proteicas. El concentrado proteico se aisló por precipitación isoeléctrica (pH=9, pH=4). Las albúminas, globulinas, glutelinas y prolaminas se aislaron en función de sus propiedades de solubilidad en diferentes soluciones de extracción. Resultados: Las glutelinas constituyeron la principal fracción proteica (75,88%). No se encontraron prolaminas. La fracción de glutelinas mostró la mayor capacidad de retención de aceite (0.93±0,08 mL g-1). La fracción de albúminas presentó la mayor capacidad de retención de agua (2,53±0,15 mL g-1), capacidad espumante y estabilidad de la espuma (71,83±1,26% y 70,00±0,00%, respectivamente) y capacidad antioxidante (18,09±0,88%). Las globulinas mostraron la mayor capacidad emulsionante y estabilidad de la emulsión (56,83±1,76 y 55,67±1,20%, respectivamente). Conclusiones: El concentrado y las fracciones proteicas de las semillas de Leucaena mostraron diferentes propiedades tecno-funcionales y antioxidantes de interés para la industria alimentaria, similares a los reportados por diversas proteínas vegetales comerciales(AU)

Hyperimmune globulin and monoclonal antibody for the treatment of SARS CoV-2 infection

The current pandemic of COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease-19), caused by the pathogen SARSCoV-2, leading to thousands of deaths in 2020, has mobilized the scientific community, with the purpose of understanding the different aspects of the disease and proposing new treatment and prevention measures. Research carried out in several areas includes evaluating the possibility of using hyperimmune globulin and monoclonal antibodies against SARS CoV-2 as well as analyzing the viability and efficacy of monoclonal antibodies and hyperimmune globulin in combating Sars-CoV-2. A literature review was carried out with a defined search strategy using the keywords (i) "hyperimmune globulin", (ii) "monoclonal antibody", (iii)" covid-19" and (iv)" sars-cov-2", in the PubMed and ResearchGate databases, using the bibliographic references of the articles selected in these databases. Of the 187 citations obtained, 10 articles published between 2019 and 2020 were selected after reading the summary of each one and determining its compatibility with the objective of this study. Final considerations highlight the main challenges and the feasibility of using hyperimmune globulin and monoclonal antibodies for the treatment/prevention of SARS CoV-2 infection.

The insertion of bioactive peptides at the C-terminal end of an 11S globulin changes the structural stability and improves the antihypertensive activity

BACKGROUND: The 11S globulin from amaranth is the most abundant storage protein in mature seeds and is well recognized for its nutritional value. We used this globulin to engineer a new protein by adding a four valinetyrosine antihypertensive peptide at its C-terminal end to improve its functionality. The new protein was named AMR5 and expressed in the Escherichia coli BL21-CodonPlus(DE3)-RIL strain using a custom medium (F8PW) designed for this work. RESULTS: The alternative medium allowed for the production of 652 mg/L expressed protein at the flask level, mostly in an insoluble form, and this protein was subjected to in vitro refolding. The spectrometric analysis suggests that the protein adopts a ß/α structure with a small increment of α-helix conformation relative to the native amaranth 11S globulin. Thermal and urea denaturation experiments determined apparent Tm and C1/2 values of 50.4°C and 3.04 M, respectively, thus indicating that the antihypertensive peptide insertion destabilized the modified protein relative to the native one. AMR5 hydrolyzed by trypsin and chymotrypsin showed 14- and 1.3-fold stronger inhibitory activity against angiotensin I-converting enzyme (IC50 of 0.034 mg/mL) than the unmodified protein and the previously reported amaranth acidic subunit modified with antihypertensive peptides, respectively. CONCLUSION: The inserted peptide decreases the structural stability of amaranth 11S globulin and improves its antihypertensive activity.

Serum proteinogram of the Campeiro horse / Proteinograma sérico de equinos da raça Campeiro

The aim of this study to measure the fractions of the total serum proteins of the Campeiro horse and identify the influences of biological variants. Blood samples were taken in 138 horses of the breed Campeiro for measuring the concentration of total serum protein by the biuret method. Serum concentrations of protein fractions were measured by electrophoresis using agarose gel. Groups were formed according to age, sex and reproductive condition. The average values of serum fractions: albumin (2.85±0.36g/dl), alpha 1 (0.28±0.11g/dl), alpha 2 (0.26±0.08g/dL) beta 1 (0.57±0.15g/dl), beta 2 (0.89±0.28g/dL), gamaglobulinas (1.86±0.34g/dL), albumin/globulin ratio (0.75±0.18) and 2.5% percentile and 97.5% had slight differences in relation to the reference interval proposed for the species. They observed higher values of alpha 1 and 2 globulins in the group from that had six to eight years old and gammaglobulins in group above 13 years old. Serum protein concentrations were similar in horses and mares and between non-pregnant and pregnant. Sex and pregnancy status did not affect serum proteinogram. Alpha and gammaglobulins have higher values as the age increases. Serum proteinogram of Campeiro horses shows variations that have to be considered in the interpretation of laboratory tests.(AU)

Este trabalho tem por objetivo mensurar as frações das proteínas totais séricas de equinos Campeiros e identificar as influências de variantes biológicas. Foram colhidas amostras de sangue de 138 equinos, machos e fêmeas da raça Campeiro. A determinação da concentração de proteínas totais séricas foi realizada pelo método de biureto. As concentrações séricas das frações proteicas foram determinadas por eletroforese, utilizando-se gel de agarose. Formaram-se grupos em relação à idade, ao sexo e à condição reprodutiva. Os valores médios das frações séricas albumina (2,85±0,36g/dL), alfa 1 (0,28±0,11g/dL), alfa 2 (0,26±0,08g/dL), beta 1 (0,57±0,15g/dL), beta 2 (0,89±0,28g/dL), gamaglobulinas (1,86±0,34g/dL), relação albumina/globulina (0,75±0,18) e os percentis 2,5% e 97,5% apresentaram diferenças pontuais em relação aos intervalos propostos para a espécie. Observaram-se maiores valores de alfa 1, alfa 2 globulinas, no grupo de seis a oito anos, e de gamaglobulinas, no grupo acima de 13 anos de idade. O proteinograma sérico foi similar entre machos e fêmeas e entre fêmeas vazias e gestantes. Sexo e estado gestacional não afetaram o proteinograma sérico. Alfa e gamaglobulinas têm incrementos em função de idades crescentes. O proteinograma sérico de equinos Campeiros tem variações que devem ser consideradas em exames laboratoriais.(AU)

Prognostic role of preoperative albumin to globulin ratio in predicting survival of clear cell renal cell carcinoma

ABSTRACT Purpose: To investigate the prognostic role of preoperative albumin/globulin ratio (AGR) in predicting disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) in localized and locally advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients. Patients and Methods: 162 patients who met the criteria specified were included in the study. The DFS and OS ratios were determined using the Kaplan-Meier method. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to determine the prognostic factors affecting DFS and OS. Results: Median follow-up period was 27.5 (6-89) months. There was a statistically significant relationship between low AGR and high pathological tumor (pT) stage, presence of collecting system invasion, presence of tumor necrosis, and a high platelet count (p = 0.012, p = 0.01, p = 0.001, and p = 0.004, respectively). According to the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, both OS and DFS were found to be significantly lower in the low AGR group (p = 0.006 and p = 0.012). In the multivariate Cox regression analysis, collecting system invasion and tumor necrosis were found to be independent prognostic factors in predicting OS and pT stage was found to be an independent prognostic factor in predicting DFS (HR: 4.08, p = 0.043; HR: 8.64, p = 0.003 and HR: 7.78, p = 0.041, respectively). Conclusion: In our study, low AGR was found to be associated with increased mortality and disease recurrence in localized and locally advanced RCC.

Low-protein diet does not alter reproductive, biochemical, and hematological parameters in pregnant Wistar rats

The aim of this study was to investigate the reproductive, biochemical, and hematological outcomes of pregnant rats exposed to protein restriction. Wistar rat dams were fed a control normal-protein (NP, 17% protein, n=8) or a low-protein (LP, 8% protein, n=14) diet from the 1st to the 20th day of pregnancy. On the 20th day, the clinical signs of toxicity were evaluated. The pregnant rats were then anesthetized and blood samples were collected for biochemical-hematological analyses, and laparotomy was performed to evaluate reproductive parameters. No sign of toxicity, or differences (P>0.05) in body weight gain and biochemical parameters (urea, creatinine, albumin, globulin, and total protein) between NP and LP pregnant dams were observed. Similarly, hematological data, including red blood cell count, white blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cell distribution width (coefficient of variation), mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, % lymphocytes, absolute lymphocyte count, platelet count, and mean platelet volume were similar (P>0.05) at the end of pregnancy. Reproductive parameters (the dam-offspring relationship, ovary mass, placenta mass, number of corpora lutea, implantation index, resorption index, and the pre- and post-implantation loss rates) were also not different (P>0.05) between NP and LP pregnant dams. The present data showed that a protein-restricted diet during pregnancy did not alter reproductive, biochemical, and hematological parameters and seems not to have any toxic effect on pregnant Wistar rats.

Serum biochemistry in hystricomorpha: agouti (Dasyprocta prymnolopha) during pregnancy / Bioquímica sérica em hystricomorpha: cutia (Dasyprocta prymnolopha, WAGLER, 1831) durante o período gestacional

The aim of this estudy was to establish the levels of serum total protein, albumin, globulin, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), calcium, phosphorus, urea, creatinine, bilirubin and glucose during pregnancy in agoutis. Animals: Twelve pregnant agouti from the Center for the Study and Preservation of Wild Animals (CSPWA) of the Federal University of Piauí (UFPI) were used in this research. After identification of the estrus, the day of the coverage was confirmed by means of vaginal cytology with the visualization of spermatozoa (day zero) and confirmation of pregnancy by ultrasonographic examination after 15 days. Blood samples were collected by lateral saphenous vein puncture after physical restraint, every 10 days until the end of pregnancy, for biochemical analyzes. A completely randomized experimental design was used and the means compared by the Duncan test at 5% probability using the SAS (Statistical Analysis System). The results of the biochemical analysis of total protein, albumin, globulin, urea, creatinine, calcium, phosphorus, serum ALT, glucose, AST, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin and indirect bilirubin in pregnant agouti (Dasyprocta prymnolopha) did not differ when compared to nonpregnant females. The serum biochemical levels during pregnancy in agoutis, except for calcium and phosphorus, were unchanged compared to those found in the non-pregnant adult animal, as occurs in other species. The changes during pregnancy reflect the physiology and biology of wild species, elucidating information about the biochemical parameters during pregnancy, thus characterizing the animal as a benchmark for comparisons with other species, extolling its importance both for nature conservation and production in capivity.

O estudo objetivou estabelecer os níveis séricos de proteínas totais, albumina, globulina, Alanina Aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartato Aminotransferase (AST), cálcio, fósforo, ureia, creatinina, bilirrubina e glicose durante a gestação em cutias. A pesquisa foi desenvolvida utilizando-se 12 cutias fêmeas criadas no Núcleo de Estudos, Produção e Preservação de Animais Silvestres da Universidade Federal do Piauí. Após a identificação do estro, o dia da cobertura foi confirmado por meio de citologia vaginal com a visualização de espermatozoides (dia zero) e confirmação da gestação por exame ultrassonográfico após 15 dias. Confirmada a gestação, foram coletados 03 mL de sangue mediante punção da veia pudenda interna, após contenção física, a cada 10 dias, até o final da gestação. Foi feita a análise de variância para um delineamento inteiramente casualizado com teste de Duncan para comparação das médias a 5% de probabilidade utilizando-se do programa estatístico SAS (Statistical Analysis System). Os resultados obtidos por meio da análise bioquímica de proteína total, albumina, globulina, ureia, creatinina, cálcio, fósforo, ALT séricas, glicose, aspartato aminotransferase (AST), bilirrubina total, bilirrubina direta e bilirrubina indireta de cutias gestantes (Dasyprocta prymnolopha) diferem de forma absoluta quando comparados a fêmeas não gestantes. Os níveis bioquímicos séricos durante a gestação em cutias, com exceção do cálcio, fósforo, sofrem alterações comparadas ao animal adulto não prenhe, como ocorre em outras espécies. Os níveis nas cutias gestantes sofrem alterações de acordo com o tempo de gestação, com maiores mudanças no período inicial e final da prenhez. As mudanças durante a gravidez refletem a fisiologia e a biologia da espécie silvestre, elucidando informações sobre os parâmetros bioquímicos durante a gestação, caracterizando o animal como referência para comparações com outras espécies, exaltando a importância tanto para sua conservação quanto para a sua produção em cativeiro.

Perfil de proteínas plasmáticas em cadelas gestantes e não gestantes / Plasmatic protein profile of pregnant and non-pregnant bitches

O estudo das interações orgânicas da gestação e as mudanças fisiológicas que estão ocorrendo nesta fase são de extrema importância para a avaliação clínica da fêmea gestante ou para estabelecer o diagnóstico de processos patológicos em andamento. O objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar o perfil das diversas proteínas sanguíneas (frações protéicas do soro - albumina, a1, a2, b, g globulinas e proteína total) durante o período gestacional e no diestro em cadelas. Foram utilizadas 40 fêmeas caninas da raça Dogue Alemão, em idade variando entre 2 a 7 anos, clinicamente saudáveis. Os animais foram separados em dois grupos, denominados Grupo não gestante (NG) e Grupo gestante (G), constituídos por 20 fêmeas em diestro e 20 fêmeas gestantes, respectivamente. Preconizou-se colheita de sangue semanalmente de cada animal durante 9 semanas. Nas fêmeas do grupo NG, as amostras foram colhidas a partir do início do diestro, até a detecção do início do anestro; no grupo G, as amostras foram colhidas do início do diestro até o momento da parição. A partir do soro sanguíneo, foram determinadas as concentrações de proteína total, albumina, a1, a2, b e g globulinas. Não houve diferença significativa quanto aos resultados de proteína sérica total entre a 1ª e 6ª semanas de gestação e diestro, havendo decréscimo gradual em ambos grupos. Já ao final da gestação (entre a 7ª e 9ª semanas), houve acréscimo significativo dos valores de proteína total, sugerindo ação anabólica. Os níveis de albumina sofreram queda da 1ª a 9ª semana, tanto no grupo gestante, como não-gestante, com diferença estatística entre os dois grupos na 7ª, 8ª e 9ª semanas. As concentrações de α1 globulina nas fêmeas gestantes sofreram acréscimo significativo a partir da 2ª semana, contudo, diferença estatística entre os grupos NG e G ocorreu somente na 8ª e 9ª semanas, coincidindo com a fase de preparação à parição. Houve aumento no perfil de α2 globulina entre a 2ª e 3ª semanas de gestação, porém tais valores não diferiram das fêmeas em diestro. Diferença significativa de α2 globulina foi observada apenas durante a 4ª, 5ª, 6ª, 8ª e 9ª semanas entre os dois grupos avaliados. As concentrações séricas de ß globulina nas cadelas não-gestantes foi superior às das fêmeas gestantes durante a 2ª, 4ª e 7ª semanas. Durante o primeiro terço da gestação (1ª a 3ª semana), foi observado queda dos valores de γ globulina, coincidente ao período pré implantacional e durante a formação dos sítios de implantação. Entre a 8ª e 9ª semanas de gestação, houve acréscimo significativo de γ globulina, possivelmente conseqüente ao aumento da produção de imunoglobulinas direcionadas à glândula mamária, como constituinte do colostro. Em conclusão, as proteínas alteram-se de forma evidente durante o período de gestação. Foi possível inferir diferenças nas funções biológicas das proteínas sanguíneas em cadelas gestantes e não gestantes. As proteínas determinadas estão envolvidas com o estímulo inflamatório durante a gestação, além dos mecanismos de regulação hormonal e preparação do organismo materno à lactação.(AU)

The study of the organic interaction and physiological adaptations during pregnancy is of utmost importance for clinical evaluation and diagnosis of pathological conditions of pregnant bitches. The aim of the present study was to compare the serum protein profile (total protein, albumin, a1, a2, b and g globulin) of pregnant and diestrous bitches. For this purpose, 40 healthy 2 to7-year-old Great Dane bitches were used. The bitches were allocated in two experimental groups: Non-pregnant group (NP; n=20) and pregnant group (P; n=20). From each female, blood was drawn weekly during 9 weeks, from the diestrous onset until the beginning of anestrus or parturition, respectively from NP and P groups. The concentration of total protein, albumin and a1, a2, b and g globulins were determined from serum samples. No statistical difference was found for total protein between 1st and 6th weeks of pregnancy or diestrus. In both groups, there was a progressive decline in total protein concentration. At the end of pregnancy (7th to 9th week), a significant increase in total protein was verified, suggesting an anabolic process. Albumin concentration decreased between the 1st and 9th week in both groups, however, more markedly in the P group (with significant difference between groups at 7th, 8th and 9th week). The levels of α1 globulin in pregnant bitches increased significantly from the 2nd week on. Statistical difference was observed between groups only at the 8th and 9th week, during which a preparatory phase for parturition occurs. A significant rise in α2 globulin was shown between the 2nd and 3rd week of gestation, however without difference from the NP group. There was significant difference for α2 globulin between groups at the 4th, 5th, 6th, 8th and 9th week. Serum concentration of b globulin in diestrous bitches was superior than pregnant bitches at the 2nd, 4th and 7th week. During early gestation (1st to 3rd week) there was a decrease in g globulin, simultaneously to the preimplantation period and formation of implantation sites. An increase in g globulin was shown between the 8th and 9th week in pregnant bitches, possibly due to the increase in immunoglobulin synthesis targeting the mammary gland to form the colostrum. In conclusion, markedly changes in protein profile occur during gestation. It was possible to state different biological function of blood proteins in pregnant and diestrous bitches. The determined proteins are enrolled in the inflammatory stimulus during gestation, as well as in the hormonal regulatory mechanisms and maternal preparatory process to lactation.(AU)

Expression, purification and thermal stability evaluation of an engineered amaranth protein expressed in Escherichia coli

Background: The acidic subunit of amarantin (AAC)-the predominant amaranth seed storage protein-has functional potential and its third variable region (VR) has been modified with antihypertensive peptides to improve this potential. Here, we modified the C-terminal in the fourth VR of AAC by inserting four VY antihypertensive peptides. This modified protein (AACM.4) was expressed in Escherichia coli. In addition, we also recombinantly expressed other derivatives of the amarantin protein. These include: unmodified amarantin acidic subunit (AAC); amarantin acidic subunit modified at the third VR with four VY peptides (AACM.3); and amarantin acidic subunit doubly modified, in the third VR with four VY peptides and in the fourth VR with the RIPP peptide (AACM.3.4). Results: E. coli BL21-CodonPlus (DE3)-RIL was the most favorable strain for the expression of proteins. After 6 h of induction, it showed the best recombinant protein titer. The AAC and AACM.4 were obtained at higher titers (0.56 g/L) while proteins modified in the third VR showed lower titers: 0.44 g/L and 0.33 g/L for AACM.3 and AACM.3.4, respectively. As these AAC variants were mostly expressed in an insoluble form, we applied a refolding protocol. This made it possible to obtain all proteins in soluble form. Modification of the VR 4 improves the thermal stability of amarantin acidic subunit; AAC manifested melting temperature (Tm) at 34°C and AACM.4 at 37.2°C. The AACM.3 and AACM.3.4 did not show transition curves. Conclusions: Modifications to the third VR affect the thermal stability of amarantin acidic subunit.

Triple terapia inmunosupresora con el empleo del Tymogam® en la aplasia medular idiopática / Immunosuppressive triple-therapy using Tymogam® in idiopathic aplastic anemia

Introducción: la terapia inmunosupresora con globulina antitimocítica o antilinfocítica y ciclosporina A se considera el tratamiento estándar para pacientes con aplasia medular muy severa o severa, que no tienen posibilidades de trasplante de progenitores hematopoyéticos. Objetivo: evaluar la respuesta del tratamiento inmunosupresor con el empleo de Thymogam® en pacientes adultos con aplasia medular idiopática. Método: se realizó un estudio descriptivo de 26 pacientes mayores de 18 años con diagnóstico de aplasia medular idiopática, atendidos en el Instituto de Hematología e Inmunología entre enero del 2000 y abril del 2012, que recibieron como parte del tratamiento inmunosupresor, la globulina antitimocítica (Thymogam®). Resultados: se clasificaron14 pacientes como aplasia medular muy severa y 12 como severa. La media de edad fue de 36 años (rango 18 - 74 años). En los primeros 6 meses después de iniciado el tratamiento, el 73 por ciento alcanzó algún tipo de respuesta y de ellos, en 15 (57,7 por ciento) la respuesta fue completa, la que fue más frecuente en los menores de 25 años. El porcentaje de recaídas fue del 26,3 por ciento. Las reacciones adversas más frecuentes fueron fiebre, hipertensión arterial, temblores y sudoraciones. Las principales complicaciones fueron las hemorragias graves y la sepsis. Un paciente desarrolló una leucemia mieloide aguda. La sobrevida global a los 5 años fue del 73 por ciento. Conclusiones: el Thymogam® es una opción terapéutica viable en el tratamiento inmunosupresor de pacientes con aplasia medular idiopática severa y muy severa(AU)

Introduction: immunosuppressive treatment with antithymocyte or antilymphocyte globulin and cyclosporin A is considered the standard treatment for patients with very severe or severe idiopathic aplastic anemia who do not have the possibility of progenitor hematopoietic transplantation. Objective: to evaluate the responses to immunosuppressive treatment using Thymogam® in adult patients with idiopathic aplastic anemia. Methods: A descriptive study was performed in 26 patients older than 18 years with diagnosis of idiopathic aplastic anemia, attended at the Institute of Hematology and Immunology from January 2000 to April 2012, who received antithymocyte globulin (Thymogam®) as part of immunosuppressive treatment. Results: patients were classified as very severe (14) and severe ( 12). The median age was 36 years old (range 18 - 74 years). In the first six months after the start of treatment, 73 percent of patients obtained some kind of response and 15 of them (57,6 percent) had a complete response, which was more frequent in the group of patients with less of 25 years of age. The percentage of relapse was 26,3 percent. The more frequent adverse reactions were fever, arterial hypertension, tremors and sweatiness. The main adverse reactions were severe bleeding and infections. One patient developed acute myeloid leukemia. Overall survival at 5 years was 73 percent. Conclusion: thymogam® is one therapeutic option in the immunosuppressive treatment in patients with very severe or severe idiopathic aplastic anemia(AU)

Biochemical and nutritional evaluation of patients with visceral leishmaniasis before and after treatment with leishmanicidal drugs

Introduction Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is caused by the intracellular protozoan Leishmania donovani complex. VL may be asymptomatic or progressive and is characterized by fever, anemia, weight loss and the enlargement of the spleen and liver. The nutritional status of the patients with VL is a major determinant of the progression, severity and mortality of the disease, as it affects the clinical progression of the disease. Changes in lipoproteins and plasma proteins may have major impacts in the host during infection. Thus, our goal was evaluate the serum total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides, glucose, albumin, globulin and total protein levels, as well as the body composition, of VL patients before and after treatment. Methods Nutritional evaluation was performed using the bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) to assess body composition. Biochemical data on the serum total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, glucose, albumin, globulin and total protein were collected from the medical charts of the patients. Results BIA indicated that both pre-treatment and post-treatment patients exhibited decreased phase angles compared to the controls, which is indicative of disease. Prior to treatment, the patients exhibited lower levels of total body water compared to the controls. Regarding the biochemical evaluation, patients with active VL exhibited lower levels of total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and albumin and higher triglyceride levels compared to patients after treatment and the controls. Treatment increased the levels of albumin and lipoproteins and decreased the triglyceride levels. Conclusions Our results suggest that patients with active VL present biochemical and nutritional changes that are reversed by treatment. .

Globulinas totales y recuento linfocitario como marcadores de mortalidad en sepsis y shock séptico / Total globulins and lymphocyte count as markers of mortality in sepsis and septic shock

Background: There are no studies probing if patients in sepsis or septic shock with lower levels of total plas-matic globulins and/or lymphocyte count have higher mortality. Patients and Method: Prospective cohort study of 103 patients admitted in Intensive Care Unit followed daily at the Dr. Gustavo Fricke Hospital between June and November of 2009, with sepsis or septic shock criteria. Results: There was association between mortality and lymphocytic count measured from the third day of their hospitalization (P < 0.05), but not when compared with the plasmatic globulin measurements (P > 0.05). The area under ROC curve for the mean lymphocyte count at the third day was 0.68 (95% CI 0.53-0.82), with a sensitivity of 75%, specificity of 52%, LR(+) 1.57 and LR(-) 0.48 for a cut-off at 510 lymphocytes/mm³, behaving also as an independent risk factor of mortality (OR 3.67, 95% CI 1.03-13.1). Discussion: Lymphocyte count is early and independently associated with increased mortality in patients with sepsis or septic shock.

Introducción: No existen estudios que demuestren si pacientes en sepsis o shock séptico que presentan globulinas plasmáticas totales y/o recuento linfocitario plasmático disminuidos, tendrían mayor mortalidad. Pacientes y Método: Estudio de cohorte prospectivo de 103 pacientes ingresados a la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos, que cumplían criterios de sepsis o shock séptico, seguidos diariamente en el Hospital Dr. Gustavo Fricke entre junio y noviembre de 2009. Resultados: Hubo asociación entre mortalidad y recuento linfocitario medido a partir del tercer día (valor p < 0,05), pero no al comparar mortalidad con mediciones de globulinas plasmáticas (valor p > 0,05). El área bajo la curva ROC del recuento linfocitario medido al tercer día fue 0,68 (IC 95% 0,530,82), con una sensibilidad de 75%, especificidad 52%, LR(+) 1,57 y LR(-) 0,48 para un punto de corte de 510 linfocitos/mm³, comportándose además como factor de riesgo independiente de mortalidad (OR 3,67, IC 95% 1,03-13,1). Discusión: El recuento linfocitario se asocia precozmente y en forma independiente al pronóstico de mayor mortalidad en estos pacientes.

Study of the variables which influence the impregnation of globules, compressed tablets and tablet triturates used in homeopathy

Globules, compressed tablets and tablet triturates are solid dosage forms used in homeopathy. Divergences can be noted between the preparation techniques described in official compendiums as well as those applied in homeopathic pharmacies. The difficulty associated with standardization of the impregnation of these dosage forms occurs due to the lack of detail provided for the techniques in the literature, leaving it up to each pharmacy to decide on the exact method of preparation. The objective was to optimize the impregnation technique, through investigating the variables that influence the impregnation of globules, compressed tablets and tablet triturates, applying the statistical tool of factorial design. The independent variables were the dosage form, percentage and type of impregnation and drying temperature, and the dependent variables were the mass gain, disintegration time, friability and hardness. For the globules, the greatest mass gain was for 10% impregnation and drying at 20 ºC. For the tablet triturates and compressed tablets the greatest mass gain was for 15% impregnation and there was no difference between the results obtained using simple and triple impregnation or different drying temperatures. The results can contribute to improving the final product quality, besides aiding in the establishment of standardized techniques for the official compendiums.

Glóbulos, comprimidos e tabletes são formas farmacêuticas sólidas utilizadas em homeopatia. Constatam-se divergências entre técnicas de preparação descritas nos compêndios oficiais, bem como em farmácias homeopáticas. A dificuldade de padronização na impregnação destas formas farmacêuticas também ocorre devido à falta de detalhamento das técnicas na literatura existente, deixando para cada farmácia a escolha de como executá-las. O objetivo foi otimizar a técnica de impregnação, através do estudo de variáveis que interferem na impregnação de glóbulos, comprimidos e tabletes, aplicando como ferramenta estatística planejamento fatorial. As variáveis foram forma farmacêutica, percentual e tipo de impregnação e temperatura de secagem, sendo o ganho de massa, tempo de desintegração, friabilidade e dureza as variáveis dependentes. Para os glóbulos, observou-se maior ganho de massa quando impregnados a 10% e secagem realizada a 20 ºC. Para os tabletes e comprimidos, constatou-se maior ganho de massa quando impregnados a 15%, sendo que não houve diferença na impregnação simples ou tríplice nem nas diferentes temperaturas de secagem. Os resultados obtidos podem contribuir para a melhoria da qualidade do produto final, além de auxiliar no estabelecimento de técnicas padronizadas para os compêndios oficiais.

Purificación y determinación de carbohidratos en la vicilina de Canavalia ensiformis / Purification and carbohydrate determination of vicilin from Canavalia ensiformis

Este estudio reporta la purificación y determinación de carbohidratos en la vicilina de Canavalia ensiformis ( Jack bean). La vicilina se purificó por precipitación isoeléctrica a pH 6,4 y 4,8, cromatografía de intercambio iónico (DEAE -Sephadex A-50) y cromatografía de afinidad (Con A -Sepharosa 4B). La pureza de la proteína se verificó por SDS-PAGE y su identidad se confirmó por espectrometría de masas empleando la técnica de ionización MALDI (desorción-ionización con láser asistida por una matriz) en un espectrómetro de tiempo de vuelo (TOF) obteniéndose un espectro de masas característico de la proteína (PMF) (MALDI-TOF-PMF).La oxidación de residuos glicosídicos en la vicilina demostró la presencia de carbohidratos en la proteína, lo cual se corroboró por deglicosilación enzimática con Péptido N-glicosidasa F (PNGasa F) y por el método de Dubois, el cual mostró un contenido de carbohidratos del 4,03% en la proteína. Estos resultados muestran, por primera vez, la presencia de glicósidos en la vicilina de Canavalia ensiformis.El proceso de purificación de la vicilina de la semilla de Canavalia ensiformis, desarrollado en este trabajo, permitió obtener la proteína con un grado de pureza muy superior al descrito previamente en la literatura.

This study reports the purification and carbohydrate determination of vicilin from anavalia ensiformis (Jack bean). The vicilin was purified by isoelectric precipitation at pH 6.4 and 4.8, ion exchange chromatography (deae-Sephadex A-50) and affinity chromatography (Con A -Sepharosa 4B). Protein identity was confirmed by mass spectrometry (maldi-tof-pmf) (Matrix assisted laser desorption ionizationtime of flight-Peptide mass fingerprinting) and purification was confirmed by sdspage. Oxidation of glycosylated moiety in pure vicilin demonstrates the presence of carbohydrates in the protein. The presence of carbohydrates in the pure vicilin fraction was confirmed by enzymatic deglycosylation by Peptide N-glycosidase F (PNGasa F) and by Dubois’ method, finding a 4.03% carbohydrate content in such protein. These results demonstrate for the first time the presence of glycosides in C. ensiformis vicilin. The purification process of vicilin seed of Canavalia Ensiformis used in this study allowed us to obtain a protein with a high degree of purity, superior to the ones described in the literature.

Fraccionamiento y caracterización de las proteínas solubles de la harina de nuez de Barinas (caryodendron orinocense K. ) / Fractionation and characterization of soluble proteins from nuez de Barinas (caryodendron orinocense K .) flour

La harina de nuez de Barinas (Caryodendron orinocense K.) de acuerdo a estudios realizados presenta un contenido de pro teínas en el rango de 15-18%, que permite se pueda considerar como fuente de proteína. Sin embargo no se conoce la composición de estas proteínas. En este estudio se realizó un proceso de fraccionamiento de acuerdo a la solubilidad en diferentes solventes (agua, cloruro de sodio al 5%, hidróxido de sodio 0,02N, etanol al 70%), y el establecimiento de la composición proteica según el peso molecular de la harina de nuez de Barinas obtenida a partir de las nueces secas, molidas y des grasadas, determinando el rango de pesos moleculares por SDS-PAGE y su comparación con el rango de pesos moleculares de las proteínas de la harina de soya (Glycine max). Asi mismo, se determinó la digestibilidad in vitro por hidrólisis enzimática. Los resultados indican un rango de PM de 20.000- 97.000 daltons para la soya y de 6.500-45.000 daltons para la nuez de Barinas. El peso molecular más bajo sugiere una más fácil digestión de las proteínas, que corrobora el valor de la di - ges tibilidad obtenido de 75%. Las proteínas presentes están cons tituidas por albúminas 50,72%, globulinas 15,56%, prolaminas 23,10% y glutelinas 2,52% que representan el 92,15% del total de proteínas presentes. Estas fracciones presentaron una pureza de 81,57%, 94,01%, 70,86% y 92,53%, respectivamente. Estos resultados sugieren la posibilidad de uso de la harina de Caryodendron orinocense K en el desarrollo de productos alimenticios para niños y ancianos.

Nuez de Barinas (Caryodendron orinocense K.) flour has been reported to have a content of proteins in the range of 15-18% that allows considering it as a source of proteins. However, there is no evidence on the composition of these proteins. The objective of this study was the extraction and separation of the different fractions of proteins based on their solubility in different solvents (water, 5% sodium chloride, sodium hydroxide 0.02N, and 70% ethanol), and the protein composition assessment of the nuez de Barinas flour from dried, milled, and defatted nuts; by analysis of the range of mo lecular weight by SDS-PAGE. Molecular weights of proteins from soybean (Glycine max) flour, were used for comparison. In vitro protein digestibility was determined by enzymatic hydrolysis. Results presented soy proteins in the range of 20.000-97.000 daltons while the nuez de Barinas flour proteins were in the range of 6.500-45.000 daltons. Low molecular weight proteins should suggest a much easier digestibility of these proteins, which is related to the digestibility index of 75% found. Protein composition was found to be 50,72% albumins, 15,56% globulins, 23,10% prolamins, and 2,52% glutelins which represent 92,15% of total proteins present. These fractions showed a percent purity of 81.57, 94.01, 70.86 and 92.53, respectively. These results suggest the possibility to use this flour Caryodendron orinocense K. in developing food products for children and elderly persons.

Perfil proteico de tilápia nilótica chitralada (Oreochromis niloticus), submetida ao estresse crônico por hipóxia / Proteic electrophoretic profile of chitralada tilapia nilotic (Oreochromis niloticus), exposed to hypoxia chronic stress

Avaliou-se a variação da resposta secundária ao estresse causado por hipóxia durante 18 dias, em sistema de recirculação, em uma linhagem de tilápia nilótica (Oreochromis niloticus), chitralada, refletida no perfil proteico eletroforético do peixe e avaliou-se a diferença entre sexos para essa resposta. Foram utilizados 126 peixes, sendo 60 machos e 66 fêmeas, ambos com média de peso de 800g. O estresse crônico por hipóxia alterou (P<0,05) os valores médios relativos de albumina, α+β-globulinas e de γ-globulina, provocou alteração (P<0,05) nos níveis de proteína total relativo ao aumento no grupo dos machos, diminuição significativa dos valores médios absolutos de albumina devido à diminuição nas fêmeas e à diminuição de γ-globulina nos machos. As variantes proteicas, albumina e γ-globulina tiveram influência do sexo.

This study evaluated the secundary response variation to hypoxia stress in a strain of chitralada nilotic tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) during 18 days, in a recirculation system. The effects were measured by the proteic electrophoretic profile and the difference between the genders. One hundred twenty-six fish were used, 60 males and 66 females, both averaging 800g. The chronic hypoxia stress altered (P<0.05) the relative values of albumin, α+β-globulins, and γ-globulin; modified (P<0.05) the levels of total protein due to an increase in the male group; significantly decreased of the absolute mean values of albumin due to a decrease in the female group; and decreased the g-globulin values in males. The proteic profile, albumin, and γ-globulin were influenced by gender.

Allogeneic transplantation in multiple myeloma / Transplante alogênico no mieloma múltiplo

In this review the authors present a state of art tretment of multiple myeloma.High dose chemo-radiotherapy followed by autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation has been show to be superior a conventional chemotherapy and a double transplantation. The authors discuss too, the allogeneic transplantation with reduced intensity conditioning, allogeneic versus tandem autologous, results the patients long term outcome and a approach about the use of donor lymphocytes, anti thimocyte globulin and a overview of post transplant therapies.

Neste relato os autores apresentam uma revisão sobre o estado atual do tratamento mieloma múltiplo. São enfatizados aspectos sobre a vantagem do transplante autólogo em seguimento à quimioterapia convencional e o duplo transplante. São discutidos o transplante alogênico e o condicionamento com intensidade reduzida, além do uso de linfócitos do doador, da globulina antitimocítica e uma visão geral do futuro da terapia da moléstia.

Caracterización electroforética de las globulinas del grano fermentado de tres tipos de cacao / Electrophoretic characterization of globulins from fermented grains of three types of cocoa

Se caracterizaron electroforéticamente las globulinas del grano fermentado de los cacaos tipo criollo, forastero y trinitario de la localidad de Cumboto, estado Aragua, Venezuela, para lo cual fueron cosechadas mazorcas de dos plantas por cada tipo de cacao, a razón de tres frutos por planta, en las parcelas El Paraíso, La Vega de Santa Cruz y La Isleta. Mazorcas sanas de cada tipo de cacao fueron desgranadas manualmente y sometidas a un proceso de fermentación durante 5 días. A los granos fermentados se les eliminó la pulpa, y los cotiledones fueron secados en una estufa por 48h a 40ºC, seguido de un proceso de molienda. Las globulinas fueron extraídas con solución 0,5M NaCl y analizadas electroforéticamente por PAGE-SDS unidimensional en gel de placa de poliacrilamida 20 por ciento. Los resultados revelaron variaciones significativas (p<0,05) de los contenidos de proteína en el polvo desgrasado de los granos fermentados entre los tipos de cacao (17,6-20,3 por ciento) y en las parcelas (17,5-20,3 por ciento). Igualmente, la cantidad de globulinas difirió entre las parcelas (15,3-30,4 por ciento), en tanto que los valores no se diferenciaron estadísticamente entre los tipos (16,8-24,9 por ciento). El análisis electroforético de las globulinas mostró patrones con un total de 49 bandas tenues con movilidades relativas entre 0,214 y 0,971 y pesos moleculares entre 79 y 13,8kDa, los cuales variaron entre las plantas, tipos de cacao y parcelas

Agamaglobulinemia ligada al cromosoma X: una revisión de la literatura / Agamaglobulinemia linked to chromosome X: a review of the literature

La agammaglobulinemia ligada a X, XLA, es una inmunodeficiencia que afecta a niños varones, caracterizada por niveles de IgG menor 100 mg/dL y la disminución o ausencia de las otras Ig, desaparición o niveles casi detectables de células B y por el comienzo de infecciones recurrentes poco después de los 6 meses de vida, cuando desaparecen los Acs maternos, localizadas principalmente en pulmones, senos paranasales y huesos, por microorganismos tales como Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus y Haemophilus influenzae. También son susceptibles a la infección por poliovirus inducida por la vacuna y a la encefalitis crónica por virus ECHO. El defecto genético parece ser la incapacidad de formar células B a partir de las células pre - B, causado por mutaciones en el gen de la tirosin kinasa de Bruton, cuyo papel es vital en la maduración de las células B y, por consiguiente, en la producción de anticuerpos. El tratamiento consiste en la administración de por vida de inyecciones o infusiones de globulina inmune, en la menor dosis que prevenga la infección recurrente. Es crucial la administración rápida y adecuada de antibióticos en cada infección o como profilaxis.

Cambios de las hormonas tiroideas durante el embarazo / Changes in thyroid hormones during pregnancy

Pregnancy is known to cause different effects on thyroid binding globulin, iodine balance and thyroid function. There is enhanced transplacental uptake of iodide and increased maternal renal clearance during pregnancy. This leads to the increased dietary requirement of iodine, which is a major component of thyroid hormones. This relative iodine deficiency is compensated by increasing thyroid iodine uptake and synthesis of thyroid hormones. Therefore, reference laboratory values of normal thyroid function tests, which have been obtained from non-pregnant subjects of different age and sex, may not be same during pregnancy. Our pilot study defines the range of T3 as 1.7-4.3 nmol/l in second trimester and 0.4-3.9 nmol/l in third trimester, T4 as 92.2-252.8 nmol/l in second trimester and 108.2-219.0 nmol/l in third trimester, and TSH as 0.1-5.5 µIU/ml in second trimester and 0.5-7.6 µIU/ml in third trimester of pregnancy. The biochemical hypothyroidism in this group of pregnant women is well tolerated with no clinical features of hypothyroidism.

Se sabe que el embarazo produce diferentes efectos sobre la globulina transportadora de hormonas tiroideas, el equilibrio del yodo y la función tiroidea. Durante el embarazo se produce un aumento en la captación transplacentaria de yoduro y en la depuración renal materna. Esto conduce a un aumento de los requerimientos dietarios de yodo, que constituye el componente principal de las hormonas tiroideas. Esta deficiencia relativa de yodo es compensada por el aumento de su captación tiroidea y por la síntesis de hormonas tiroideas. En consecuencia, los valores normales de referencia de las pruebas de función tiroidea obtenidas de pacientes no embarazadas de diferentes edades pueden ser distintos de los del embarazo. Nuestro estudio piloto define el intervalo de T3 como 1.7-4.3 nmol/l en el segundo trimestre y 0.4-3.9 nmol/l en el tercer trimestre, el de T4 como 92.2-252.8 nmol/l en el segundo trimestre y 108.2-219.0 nmol/l en el tercer trimestre, y el de TSH como 0.1-5.5 µUI/ml en el segundo trimestre y 0.5-7.6 µUI/ml en el tercer trimestre del embarazo. El hipotiroidismo bioquímico en este grupo de embarazadas es bien tolerado y no presenta características clínicas.