Egg white hydrolysate protects white adipose tissue against metabolic insult in deoxycorticosterone acetate-salt rats.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of an egg white hydrolysate (EWH) to protect white adipose tissue damage from cardiometabolic changes induced by severe hypertension. Male Wistar rats were uninephrectomised and divided: SHAM (weekly subcutaneous vehicle (mineral oil + propylene glycol, 1:1)), SHAM + EWH (subcutaneous vehicle plus EWH via gavage, 1 g/kg per day), DOCA (deoxycorticosterone acetate diluted in vehicle subcutaneously weekly in subsequent doses of 20 mg/kg -1st week, 12 mg/kg - 2­3th week, and 6 mg/kg -4­8th week, respectively, plus 1 % NaCl and 0·2 % KCl in drinking water), and DOCA + EWH. Body weight gain, food and water intake, glucose and lipid metabolism were evaluated. Oxidative stress was assessed by biochemical assay and immunofluorescence for NOX-1, nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB), and caspase-3 in retroperitoneal white adipose tissue (rtWAT). Proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and 1ß), CD163+ macrophage infiltration, and immunohistochemistry for TNFα and uncoupling protein-1 were evaluated, as well as histological analysis on rtWAT. Glutathione peroxidase and reductase were also determined in plasma. EWH showed hypocholesterolemic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties in the arterial hypertension DOCA-salt model. The results demonstrated the presence of functional changes in adipose tissue function by a decrease in macrophage infiltration and in the fluorescence intensity of NFκB, NOX-1, and caspase-3. A reduction of proinflammatory cytokines and restoration of antioxidant enzymatic activity and mitochondrial oxidative damage by reducing uncoupling protein-1 fluorescence intensity were also observed. EWH could be used as a potential alternative therapeutic strategy in the treatment of cardiometabolic complications associated with malignant secondary arterial hypertension.

Egg White Hydrolysate Mitigates Cadmium-induced Neurological Disorders and Oxidative Damage.

We aimed to investigate whether the consumption of Egg White Hydrolysate (EWH) acts on nervous system disorders induced by exposure to Cadmium (Cd) in rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into (a) Control (Ct): H2O by gavage for 28 days + H2O (i.p. - 15th - 28th day); (b) Cadmium (Cd): H2O by gavage + CdCl2 - 1 mg/kg/day (i.p. - 15th - 28th day); (c) EWH 14d: EWH 1 g/kg/day by gavage for 14 days + H2O (i.p.- 15th - 28th day); (d) Cd + EWH cotreatment (Cd + EWHco): CdCl2 + EWH for 14 days; (e) EWH 28d: EWH for 28 days; (f) EWHpre + Cd: EWH (1st - 28th day) + CdCl2 (15th - 28th day). At the beginning and the end of treatment, neuromotor performance (Neurological Deficit Scale); motor function (Rota-Rod test); ability to move and explore (Open Field test); thermal sensitivity (Hot Plate test); and state of anxiety (Elevated Maze test) were tested. The antioxidant status in the cerebral cortex and the striatum were biochemically analyzed. Cd induces anxiety, and neuromotor, and thermal sensitivity deficits. EWH consumption prevented anxiety, neuromotor deficits, and alterations in thermal sensitivity, avoiding neuromotor deficits both when the administration was performed before or during Cd exposure. Both modes of administration reduced the levels of reactive species, and the lipid peroxidation increased by Cd and improved the striatum's antioxidant capacity. Pretreatment proved to be beneficial in preventing the reduction of SOD activity in the cortex. EWH could be used as a functional food with antioxidant properties capable of preventing neurological damage induced by Cd.

Viability of periodontal ligament cells in selected transport media for avulsed teeth: an in vitro study

To compare the viability of periodontal ligament (PDL) cells stored in Hanks Balanced Salt Solution (HBSS) with those in readily available transport media over a variable period of time. Methods: Periodontal ligament cells harvested from premolars freshly extracted for orthodontic reasons were cultured for exponential growth. The cells were exposed to egg white, evaporated milk, water and Hanks Balanced Salt Solution (HBSS) at room temperature. Their viability was evaluated after 30 minutes, 1 hour and 3 hours with the tetrazolium salt-based colorimetric assay (MTT assay). Statistical analysis was done using the IBM® SPSS version 23.0 software. Comparison between the Mean Optical Densities (MODs) of the cells stored in HBSS and other media at each time interval was done using the independent t test. Repeated measure ANOVA and Tukey post-hoc test were also carried out to compare the MOD of cells within each medium over time. The level of significance was set at p <0.05. Result: The PDL cells stored in egg white had higher MODs than those in HBSS at 30 minutes and 1 hour. Conversely, the MODs of the cells stored in milk and water were lower than those in HBSS at all the studied points. There was a significant difference in the viability of the cells stored in HBSS and water at all the time points (p<0.05). Conclusion: For up to an hour, egg white was found to perform better than HBSS in supporting the viability of PDL cell

Potential benefits of egg white hydrolysate in the prevention of Hg-induced dysfunction in adipose tissue.

Aim: To investigate the effects of egg white hydrolysate (EWH) on the lipid and glycemic metabolism disruption in the white adipose tissue (WAT) dysfunction induced by mercury (Hg). Experimental: Wistar rats were treated for 60 days: control (saline, intramuscular - i.m.); hydrolysate (EWH, gavage, 1 g kg-1 day-1); mercury (HgCl2, i.m., 1st dose 4.6 µg kg-1, subsequent doses 0.07 µg kg-1 day-1) and hydrolysate-mercury (EWH-HgCl2). Hg level and histological analyses were performed in epididymal WAT (eWAT), pancreas and liver. GRP78, CHOP, PPARα, PPARγ, leptin, adiponectin, and CD11 mRNA expressions were analyzed in eWAT. The plasma lipid profile, glucose, and insulin levels were measured. Antioxidant status was also evaluated in the plasma and liver. Results: EWH intake prevented the reduced eWAT weight, adipocyte size, insulin levels, and antioxidant defenses and the increased glucose and triglyceride levels induced by Hg exposure; hepatic glutathione levels were higher in rats co-treated with EWH. The increased mRNA expression of CHOP, PPARα, and leptin induced by Hg was reduced in co-treated rats. EWH did not modify the elevated mRNA expression of GRP78, PPARγ and adiponectin in Hg-treated rats. Increased levels of Hg were found in the liver; the co-treatment did not alter this parameter. EWH prevented the morphological and metabolic disorder induced by Hg, by improving antioxidant defenses, inactivating pro-apoptotic pathways and normalizing the mRNA expression of PPARs and adipokines. Its effects enabled an increase in insulin levels and a normal balance between the fat storage and expenditure mechanisms in WAT. Conclusions: EWH may have potential benefits in the prevention and management of Hg-related metabolic disorders.

The Effect of Whole Egg Intake on Muscle Mass: Are the Yolk and Its Nutrients Important?

Whole egg may have potential benefits for enhancing muscle mass, independent of its protein content. The yolk comprises ∼40% of the total protein in an egg, as well as containing several nonprotein nutrients that could possess anabolic properties (e.g., microRNAs, vitamins, minerals, lipids, phosphatidic acid and other phospholipids). Therefore, the purpose of this narrative review is to discuss the current evidence as to the possible effects of egg yolk compounds on skeletal muscle accretion beyond those of egg whites alone. The intake of whole egg seems to promote greater myofibrillar protein synthesis than egg white intake in young men. However, limited evidence shows no difference in muscle hypertrophy when comparing the consumption of whole egg versus an isonitrogenous quantity of egg white in young men performing resistance training. Although egg yolk intake seems to promote additional acute increases on myofibrillar protein synthesis, it does not seem to further enhance muscle mass when compared to egg whites when consumed as part of a high-protein dietary patterns, at least in young men. This conclusion is based on very limited evidence and more studies are needed to evaluate the effects of egg yolk (or whole eggs) intake on muscle mass not only in young men, but also in other populations such as women, older adults, and individuals with muscle wasting diseases.

Ion chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry as a powerful technique for halogens and sulfur determination in egg powder and its fractions.

RATIONALE: To increase the consumption of egg powder and its fractions a suitable quality control method is required to obtain more information on its nutritional composition. The proposed method enables the quantification of important elements for the functioning of the human organism, such as halogens and sulfur, in egg powder and its fractions. METHODS: Up to 350 mg of egg powder or its fractions (egg white powder and egg yolk powder) were digested by microwave-induced combustion using 20 bar pressure of oxygen. The analytes were absorbed in 100 mmol L-1 of NH4 OH solution. The determination of halogens (chlorine, bromine, fluorine, and iodine) and sulfur was performed in a single analysis using ion chromatography with conductivity detection coupled to mass spectrometry. RESULTS: Using the proposed method, spike recoveries between 99% and 104% for all analytes were obtained, and results agreed with certified values of reference materials (agreements were between 100% and 109%). The relative standard deviations were below 8%. The variation in elemental concentration over a wide range in different fractions (whole egg powder, egg white powder, and egg yolk powder) and different brands was also observed. CONCLUSIONS: The proposed method provides reliable information about minerals in whole egg powder and its fractions, contributing to better quality control of these products. Because these food products are widely consumed, these results suggest the safe ingestion levels of these elements.

Molecular interaction of sulfonamides and ovalbumin, an allergenic egg protein, exploring biophysical, theoretical and biological studies.

Biophysical, theoretical and biological in vitro studies were carried out to evaluate the interaction of the main allergen protein of egg white (ovalbumin, OVA) with sulphonamides (SA): sulphathiazole (S1), sulfaquinoxaline (S2), sulfadimethoxine (S3) and sulfamethazine (S4). The binding constants for the OVA-SA supramolecular complexes ranged from 1.20 to 30.66 × 105 M-1, observing the following order of affinity: S1 > S2 > S4 > S3. The preferential forces in the stabilization of the OVA complexes with S2 and S3 were hydrogen bonds and Van der Waals forces, whereas for OVA-S1 and OVAS4, were electrostatic interactions. Interaction process led to a change in the native structure of the protein, which may potentiate its natural allergenicity. Cations Ca(II), Mg(II) and Fe(III) favor the interaction of OVA with S1 and S2. The theoretical studies performed were consistent with the spectroscopic data. Finally, it was found that the interaction process for sulfonamides evaluated with OVA change the inhibition activity profile these antibiotics against strains of Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Bacillus megaterium APFSG3isox, but not the minimal inhibitory concentration values.

Estudo do processo de reparo do reimplante de dentes de ratos mantidos em albumina / Study of the reimplant repair process of teeth mainted on albumin

Quando o reimplante imediato não é possível, os meios de conservação têm papel fundamental para a manutenção da integridade do ligamento periodontal do dente avulsionado, para que um tratamento adequado seja alcançado. A clara do ovo apresentou resultados favoráveis para esse fim e a albumina constitui seu principal componente. Assim o propósito desse estudo foi analisar se a albumina pasteurizada em pó possui o mesmo potencial que a sua forma natural, como meio de conservação. Para isso foram utilizados 40 ratos divididos em 4 grupos de 10 animais. Após a extração do incisivo superior direito, os dentes do grupo IM foram reimplantados em seus respectivos alvéolos após 5 minutos (controle positivo grupo AP os dentes serão imersos em 40 ml de clara de ); No ovo pasteurizada em pó, reconstituída em água (10 gramas de pó em 30ml de água); No grupo CO dentes foram imersos em 40 ml de clara de ovo in natura; No grupo SE - os dentes serão mantidos em meio seco (controle negativo ). Com exceção do grupo IM, os demais dentes foram mantidos em seus respectivos meios por 60 minutos em temperatura ambiente para serem então reimplantados em seus respectivos alvéolos. Os animais receberam em dose única, antibiótico e analgésico. Na análise histológica da inserção epitelial e ligamento periodontal, foram consideradas a ocorrência de inflamação e a localização. Na superfície radicular foi analisada a ocorrência de reabsorção inflamatória, reabsorção por substituição, total de reabsorção, áreas reparadas por ligamento periodontal, anquilose. Os dados foram submetidos à análise estatística a um nível de significância de 5%. Os resultados demonstraram que a intensidade da inflamação aguda no tecido conjuntivo da inserção epitelial, foi maior no grupo SE em relação ao grupo IM. O grupo SE foi o mais comprometido que os demais grupos em relação à reabsorção total, reabsorção inflamatória e reabsorção por substituição. O grupo SE apresentou a menor extensão de ligamento periodontal que os demais grupos. Para o ligamento periodontal reinserido, o grupo SE apresentou menor extensão do que os grupo IM e AP. Pode-se concluir que a albumina em pó apresentou resultado histológico semelhante ao da clara de ovo in natura e do reimplante imediato, constituindo uma opção como meio de conservação de dentes avulsionados(AU)

When immediate replantation is not possible, preservatives play a fundamental role in maintaining the integrity of the periodontal ligament of the avulsed tooth so that proper treatment is achieved. Egg white showed favorable results for this purpose and a lbumin is its main component. Thus the purpose of this study was to analyze whether pasteurized albumin powder has the same potential as its natural form as a preservative medium. Forty rats were divided into 4 groups of 10 animals. After extraction of the right upper incisor, the teeth of the IM group were reimplanted in their respective alveoli after 5 minutes ( group AP positive control); In the teeth will be immersed in 40 ml of pasteurized egg white powder, reconstituted in water (10 grams of powder i n 30ml of water); In group CO were immersed in 40 ml of fresh egg white; In the SE group -- the teeth the teeth will be kept in a dry environment ( negative control). With the exception of the IM group, the remaining teeth were kept in their respective mea ns for 60 minutes at room temperature and then reimplanted in their respective alveoli. The animals received a single dose, antibiotic and analgesic. Histological analysis of epithelial insertion and periodontal ligament considered the occurrence of inflam mation and location. The root surface was analyzed for inflammatory resorption, replacement resorption, total resorption, areas repaired by periodontal ligament, ankylosis. Data were subjected to statistical analysis at a significance level of 5%. The resu lts showed that the intensity of acute inflammation in the connective tissue of the epithelial insertion was higher in the SE group than in the IM group. The SE group was the most compromised than the other groups in terms of total resorption, inflammatory resorption and replacement resorption. The SE group had the smallest periodontal ligament extension than the other groups. For the reinserted periodontal ligament, the SE group presented smaller extension than the IM and AP groups. It can be concluded tha t albumin powder presented histological results similar to that of fresh egg white and immediate replantation, constituting an option as a means of preserving avulsed teeth(AU)

Egg White Hydrolysate as a functional food ingredient to prevent cognitive dysfunction in rats following long-term exposure to aluminum.

Aluminum (Al), which is omnipresent in human life, is a potent neurotoxin. Here, we have tested the potential for Egg White Hydrolysate (EWH) to protect against changes in cognitive function in rats exposed to both high and low levels of Al. Indeed, EWH has been previously shown to improve the negative effects induced by chronic exposure to heavy metals. Male Wistar rats received orally: Group 1) Low aluminum level (AlCl3 at a dose of 8.3 mg/kg b.w. during 60 days) with or without EWH treatment (1 g/kg/day); Group 2) High aluminum level (AlCl3 at a dose of 100 mg/kg b.w. during 42 days) with or without EWH treatment (1 g/kg/day). After 60 or 42 days of exposure, rats exposed to Al and EWH did not show memory or cognitive dysfunction as was observed in Al-treated animals. Indeed, co-treatment with EWH prevented catalepsy, hippocampal oxidative stress, cholinergic dysfunction and increased number of activated microglia and COX-2-positive cells induced by Al exposure. Altogether, since hippocampal inflammation and oxidative damage were partially prevented by EWH, our results suggest that it could be used as a protective agent against the detrimental effects of long term exposure to Al.

Antioxidant Activities of Chicken Egg White Hydrolysates Obtained by New Purified Protease of Aspergillus avenaceus URM 6706

Abstract Protein hydrolysates originating from egg white have already been reported to be bioactive and, among their biological activities, possess the antioxidant property that protects the body from early ageing and diseases linked to oxidation. Therefore, the objective of this work was to evaluate the antioxidant activity of hydrolysates obtained by the hydrolysis of egg white from hen poultry. The protease produced by Aspergillus avenaceus URM 6706 was purified and subsequently applied to hydrolysate the egg white, and the degree of hydrolysis was verified during the protease exposure time (4-24 h). The hydrolysis was intensified over time of exposure to the protease. It was possible to detect the antioxidant activities of eliminating the 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) radical (ABTS•+) from 97% to 99% and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•) up to 27%, as well as the chelation of Cu2+ metal ions up to 62% and Fe2+ up to 54%. The elimination of ABTS•+ radical had a positive correlation with the degree of hydrolysis; however, all the other activities tested showed a negative correlation with the degree of hydrolysis. The results obtained suggest that the egg white of hen chicken represents a food source of animal origin with potential application in the functional food industry.

Identification of Antimicrobial Peptides of Native and Heated Hydrolysates from Hen Egg White Lysozyme.

Hen eggs are a source of bioactive compounds, of which the hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL) protein. HEWL has a demonstrated antibacterial activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of native and heated HEWL hydrolysates obtained through hydrolysis with pepsin and to identify their peptides using the reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (RP-HPLC-ESI-MS-MS) analysis. Native and heat-treated HEWL was hydrolyzed with pepsin at pH 1.2, and their antibacterial activity was tested against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus carnosus. Two of the hydrolysates obtained presented high antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Native HEWL hydrolysate was a bactericide at 2.0 mg/mL against E. coli. Fifty-one peptide sequences were identified on the two hydrolysates. Peptides identified are cationic peptides. These peptides are rich in Lys and Arg cationic amino acids and have Trp in their sequences.

Sulfanilic acid-modified chitosan mini-spheres and their application for lysozyme purification from egg white.

A cation exchange matrix with zwitterionic and multimodal properties was synthesized by a simple reaction sequence coupling sulfanilic acid to a chitosan based support. The novel chromatographic matrix was physico-chemically characterized by ss-NMR and ζ potential, and its chromatographic performance was evaluated for lysozyme purification from diluted egg white. The maximum adsorption capacity, calculated according to Langmuir adsorption isotherm, was 50.07 ± 1.47 mg g-1 while the dissociation constant was 0.074 ± 0.012 mg mL-1 . The process for lysozyme purification from egg white was optimized, with 81.9% yield and a purity degree of 86.5%, according to RP-HPLC analysis. This work shows novel possible applications of chitosan based materials. The simple synthesis reactions combined with the simple mode of use of the chitosan matrix represents a novel method to purify proteins from raw starting materials. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 34:387-396, 2018.

Interactions of tetracyclines with ovalbumin, the main allergen protein from egg white: Spectroscopic and electrophoretic studies.

The interactions of tetracycline (TC), oxytetracycline (OTC) and chlortetracycline (CTC) with ovalbumin (OVA), the main allergen protein of egg white, were investigated by molecular spectroscopy and electrophoresis at three pH conditions (1.5, 4.6 and 7.4). Molecular and synchronous fluorescence, UV-vis spectroscopy, electrophoresis and 1H NMR were used to study the interaction process. Tetracyclines interact with ovalbumin fluorescence by a static quenching mechanism with non-fluorescent complex formation changing the native protein structure. The binding constant (Kb) ranged from 2.11×104 to 58.4×104Lmol-1, and corresponding thermodynamic parameters were measured at different temperatures and pH values. The binding process was spontaneous (ΔG<0), and the magnitude of the interaction increased in the following order: TC

Performance and egg quality parameters of laying hens submitted to different rearing densities / Desempenho e qualidade de ovos de poedeiras leves submetidas à diferentes densidades populacionais

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different rearing densities during brooding (0 to 2 weeks) and growth (3 to 15 weeks) on performance and egg quality of laying hens (Hy-line W-36) during production phase (18 to 42 weeks). In the brooding phase, a total of 3250 day-old chicks were allocated in wire cages, distributed in a completely randomized design composed of 5 treatments (63.57; 66.38; 69.44; 72.80 and 76.50 cm²/bird) with 10 replications each. At the beginning of the growth phase, floor space in each treatment was increased. Therefore, a total of 750 birds were selected from the original treatments, which represented 237.57, 265.52, 300.92, 347.22, and 410.35 cm²/bird. At the end of the growing phase, 390 pullets were transferred to production facilities and distributed, according to their original treatment, in conventional cages with 430.76 cm²/bird (13 birds/cage). For this phase, only 6 replications per treatment were adopted. Experimental data were subjected to analysis of variance and, in the case of significant differences, means were analyzed using polynomial regression test. Body weight, weight gain and uniformity were compared during the brooding and growth phases. First-egg weight, age at first egg, age at 50% daily production, weights of egg, albumen, yolk and shell, egg mass, yolk diameter, yolk height, yolk index, albumen height, percentages of shell, albumen and yolk, shell thickness, Haugh unit, and egg specific gravity were analyzed during the production stage. In conclusion, raising pullets on 63.57 cm2 /bird (71 birds/cage) does not affect chicks performance during the brooding phase. However, for the growth phase, the recommendation is to provide 410.35 cm2 /bird, which corresponded to 11 birds/cage in this research. For the production period, the recommendation is to utilize pullets raised on 265.52 cm2 /bird, which corresponded to 17 birds/cage on this research.(AU)

O objetivo foi avaliar diferentes densidades populacionais nas fases de cria, recria sobre a produção de poedeiras leves comerciais (linhagem Hy-line W-36). O experimento foi dividido em três fases: cria (0 a duas semanas), recria (três a 15 semanas) e produção (18 a 42 semanas de idade). Em ambas as fases foi utilizado o delineamento inteiramente casualizado. Na fase de cria foram utilizadas 3250 pintainhas, de um dia de idade que foram distribuídas em cinco tratamentos 63,57; 66,38; 69,44; 72,80 e 76,50 cm²/ave com dez repetições cada. Para a fase de recria foram selecionadas 750 aves provenientes dos tratamentos utilizados na fase de cria, e redistribuídas em cinco tratamentos (237,57; 265,52; 300,92; 347,22 e 410,35 cm²/ave) com dez repetições por tratamento. Na fase de produção as aves foram alojadas com a mesma densidade para isso foram utilizadas 455 poedeiras advindas de cada tratamento utilizadas nas fases de cria e recria e foram distribuídas em cinco tratamentos com a mesma densidade de 430,76 cm²/ ave que corresponde a 13 aves/gaiola com seis repetições. As variáveis analisadas para as fases de cria e recria foram: peso médio, ganho de peso e uniformidade e na fase de produção as variáveis foram: idade e peso do ovo a primeira postura e a idade aos 50% de produção, peso do ovo, peso do albúmen, gema e casca, massa do ovo, diâmetro e índice de gema, altura de gema e albúmen, porcentagens de casca, albúmen e gema, espessura da casca, unidade Haugh e gravidade específica. Os dados experimentais foram submetidos à análise de variância, e em caso de diferença, as médias foram analisadas utilizando testes de regressão polinomial. Na fase de cria é possível criar as aves na densidade de 63,57cm2/ave ou 71 aves/gaiola sem comprometer o desempenho das aves. [...](AU)

Development of an affinity cryogel for one step purification of lysozyme from chicken egg white.

In this study, a supermacroporous polyacrylamide cryogel was produced by cryo-polymerization and activated with Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (Tris-cryogel) to be applied as an affinity ligand for a one step purification of lysozyme (LYZ), directly from chicken egg white (EW). The Tris-cryogel presented interconnected pores with size varying in the range of 20-80µm and swelling capacity of 19.6±0.9g/g. The axial dispersion of the Tris-cryogel was analyzed at different flow velocities and mobile phase viscosities. It was verified that higher viscosity resulted in a higher degree of dispersion, causing the HETP values to increase from 0.04cm to 0.8cm. Adsorption isotherms were measured at 15°C and 35°C at pH 7.5. A Langmuir model was fitted to the equilibrium data, with a maximum adsorptive capacity of 285mg/g at 15°C and 363mg/g at 35°C. Thermodynamic analysis based on the Van't Hoff relationship showed that the process was spontaneous and enthalpically driven. Lysozyme was purified directly from egg white in a one step purification process at different pH values (7.5, 8.5 and 9.5). Independent of the pH, the specificity of Tris-cryogel for lysozyme adsorption was confirmed. At pH 7.5, yield and purification fold were higher (30% and 45). In addition, the effect of the dilution rate on egg white and flow velocity were also analyzed and it was shown that flow velocity did not affected purification and column efficiency, and that diluting the egg white increased yield to 70% with a purification fold of 23. Results show Tris-cryogel is a promising matrix for use in high throughput purification of lysozyme from egg white.

Egg white-derived peptides prevent male reproductive dysfunction induced by mercury in rats.

Oxidative stress in known to contribute to the male reproductive dysfunction induced by mercury (Hg). Our study tested the hypothesis that the egg white hydrolysate (EWH), a potent antioxidant in vitro, is able to prevent the effects of prolonged Hg exposure on male reproductive system in rats. For this, rats were treated for 60 days with: a) Untreated - saline solution (i.m.); b) Hydrolysate - EWH (1 g/kg/day, gavage); c) Mercury - HgCl2 (1st dose 4.6 µg/kg, subsequent doses 0.07 µg/kg/day, i.m.); d) Hydrolysate-Mercury. At the end of the treatment, sperm motility, count and morphological studies were performed; Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) levels, lipid peroxidation, antioxidant capacity, histological and immunohistochemical assays on testis and epididymis were also carried out. As results, HgCl2-treatment decreased sperm number, increased sperm transit time in epididymis and impaired sperm morphology. However, these harmful effects were prevented by EWH. HgCl2-treatment also increased ROS levels, lipid peroxidation and antioxidant capacity in testis and epididymis as well as promoted testicular inflammation and histological changes in epididymis. EWH improved histological and immunohistochemical alterations, probably due to its antioxidant property. In conclusion, the EWH could represent a powerful natural alternative to protect the male reproductive system against Hg-induced sperm toxicity.

Molecular mechanism of lysozyme adsorption onto chemically modified alginate guar gum matrix.

The equilibrium isotherms and adsorption kinetics of lysozyme (LZ) on epichlorohydrin (Epi) cross-linked alginate-guar gum (Alg-GG) matrix were studied. Adsorption kinetics followed a pseudo-first-order model while the equilibrium isotherm could be represented by the Freundlich equation. The maximal amount of LZ adsorbed onto this matrix was around 2.4mg per g of hydrated matrix at pH 7.00. The adsorption mechanism was associated to a simple diffusion process with a weak columbic interaction between LZ and the matrix. The presence of NaCl 0.3M induced a total displacement of the LZ from the matrix. Under this condition, the percentage of desorbed protein was 95%. Successive cycles of adsorption-washing-elution were performed and the results showed the reversibility of the process and the usefulness of the method for enzyme purification and separation. A last successful step was carried out for the purification of LZ from egg white as natural source. The model proved to be useful applied as a platform design in the isolation and purification of proteins.

Effect of temperature and seven storage media on human periodontal ligament fibroblast viability.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Natural resources, such as coconut water, propolis, and egg whites, have been examined as possible storage media for avulsed teeth. However, there is a lack of research focused on the efficacy of these three products together compared with Hank's balanced salt solution and milk. The aim of this study was to evaluate the capacity of seven storage media to maintain the viability of human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLFs). MATERIAL AND METHODS: PDLFs were kept at 5°C and 20°C, in skimmed milk (SMilk), whole milk (WMilk), recently prepared Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS), Save-A-Tooth® system's HBSS (Save), natural coconut water (Coconut), Propolis, and egg white (Egg) for 3, 6, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 h, through the analysis of tetrazolium salt-based colorimetric (MTT) assay. RESULTS: At 5°C, SMilk and WMilk were better than HBSS in maintaining cell viability, from 24 h onward. At 20°C, HBSS was the best storage medium at 96 and 120 h. At both temperatures, from 6 h onward, Coconut, Propolis and Egg were less effective than SMilk, WMilk, and HBSS. In general, the performance of Coconut, Propolis and Egg were not influenced by storage temperature. However, the lowest temperature undermined the effectiveness of HBSS from 24 h and favored SMilk and WMilk, from 96 and 48 h onward, respectively. Save and water were the worst storage media. CONCLUSION: SMilk was the best storage medium, followed by WMilk and HBSS. Coconut, Propolis, and Egg can be indicated for the conservation of PDLF up to 3 h. The lower temperature (5°C) undermined the effectiveness of HBSS and favored SMilk and WMilk.

Performance and egg quality parameters of laying hens submitted to different rearing densities / Desempenho e qualidade de ovos de poedeiras leves submetidas à diferentes densidades populacionais

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different rearing densities during brooding (0 to 2 weeks) and growth (3 to 15 weeks) on performance and egg quality of laying hens (Hy-line W-36) during production phase (18 to 42 weeks). In the brooding phase, a total of 3250 day-old chicks were allocated in wire cages, distributed in a completely randomized design composed of 5 treatments (63.57; 66.38; 69.44; 72.80 and 76.50 cm²/bird) with 10 replications each. At the beginning of the growth phase, floor space in each treatment was increased. Therefore, a total of 750 birds were selected from the original treatments, which represented 237.57, 265.52, 300.92, 347.22, and 410.35 cm²/bird. At the end of the growing phase, 390 pullets were transferred to production facilities and distributed, according to their original treatment, in conventional cages with 430.76 cm²/bird (13 birds/cage). For this phase, only 6 replications per treatment were adopted. Experimental data were subjected to analysis of variance and, in the case of significant differences, means were analyzed using polynomial regression test. Body weight, weight gain and uniformity were compared during the brooding and growth phases. First-egg weight, age at first egg, age at 50% daily production, weights of egg, albumen, yolk and shell, egg mass, yolk diameter, yolk height, yolk index, albumen height, percentages of shell, albumen and yolk, shell thickness, Haugh unit, and egg specific gravity were analyzed during the production stage. In conclusion, raising pullets on 63.57 cm2 /bird (71 birds/cage) does not affect chicks’ performance during the brooding phase. However, for the growth phase, the recommendation is to provide 410.35 cm2 /bird, which corresponded to 11 birds/cage in this research. For the production period, the recommendation is to utilize pullets raised on 265.52 cm2 /bird, which corresponded to 17 birds/cage on this research.

O objetivo foi avaliar diferentes densidades populacionais nas fases de cria, recria sobre a produção de poedeiras leves comerciais (linhagem Hy-line W-36). O experimento foi dividido em três fases: cria (0 a duas semanas), recria (três a 15 semanas) e produção (18 a 42 semanas de idade). Em ambas as fases foi utilizado o delineamento inteiramente casualizado. Na fase de cria foram utilizadas 3250 pintainhas, de um dia de idade que foram distribuídas em cinco tratamentos 63,57; 66,38; 69,44; 72,80 e 76,50 cm²/ave com dez repetições cada. Para a fase de recria foram selecionadas 750 aves provenientes dos tratamentos utilizados na fase de cria, e redistribuídas em cinco tratamentos (237,57; 265,52; 300,92; 347,22 e 410,35 cm²/ave) com dez repetições por tratamento. Na fase de produção as aves foram alojadas com a mesma densidade para isso foram utilizadas 455 poedeiras advindas de cada tratamento utilizadas nas fases de cria e recria e foram distribuídas em cinco tratamentos com a mesma densidade de 430,76 cm²/ ave que corresponde a 13 aves/gaiola com seis repetições. As variáveis analisadas para as fases de cria e recria foram: peso médio, ganho de peso e uniformidade e na fase de produção as variáveis foram: idade e peso do ovo a primeira postura e a idade aos 50% de produção, peso do ovo, peso do albúmen, gema e casca, massa do ovo, diâmetro e índice de gema, altura de gema e albúmen, porcentagens de casca, albúmen e gema, espessura da casca, unidade Haugh e gravidade específica. Os dados experimentais foram submetidos à análise de variância, e em caso de diferença, as médias foram analisadas utilizando testes de regressão polinomial. Na fase de cria é possível criar as aves na densidade de 63,57cm2/ave ou 71 aves/gaiola sem comprometer o desempenho das aves. [...]

[Standardization of gastric emptying scintigraphy with egg white labeled with 99mTc-sulfur colloid]. / Estandarización de la gammagrafía de vaciamiento gástrico con albúmina de huevo marcada con 99mTc sulfuro coloidal.

BACKGROUND: Gastric emptying scintigraphy has become the gold standard, by excellence, in gastric emptying studies. This method must be standardized for the correct interpretation of results. The ideal protocol must be performed with an egg sandwich or egg white poder, both labeled with 99mTc sulphur colloid. The aim of this study was to standardize and determine the protocol with99m Tc sulphur colloid incorporated in egg white and compare it with a hamburger labeled with 99mTc sulphur colloid as well. METHODS: We studied 30 patients who underwent gastric emptying scintigraphy with the two aforementioned meals. RESULTS: Emptying percentages and retention with both meals were similar within an hour and two; however, statistical significance arose until the third hour with a p value of 0.26 by using Student's t for independent samples. CONCLUSIONS: Gastric emptying studies in both protocols where similar with normal ranges. The egg white ingested must be consistent for reproducible results in gastric motility disease, like organoleptic and volume characteristics.

Introducción: la gammagrafía de vaciamiento gástrico (VG) es el estándar de oro para determinar el porcentaje de VG. La estandarización del método permite la obtención de resultados reproducibles. La dieta estandarizada se compone de un sándwich de albúmina de huevo en polvo reconstituida y marcada con 99mTc sulfuro coloidal (SC). El objetivo fue estandarizar y determinar el porcentaje de vaciamiento gástrico tras la ingesta del sándwich de albúmina de huevo y compararlo con el porcentaje de ingesta de una hamburguesa, ambos marcados con 99mTc sulfuro coloidal. Método: se incluyeron 30 pacientes a los que se les realizó estudio de gammagrafía de vaciamiento gástrico con las dos dietas propuestas. Resultados: los porcentajes de vaciamiento y retención con ambos tipos de alimentos fueron similares a la hora y a las dos horas; sin embargo, hubo diferencias significativas a las tres horas con un valor de p = 0.26, calculado mediante t de Student para muestras independientes. Conclusiones: los tiempos de vaciamiento gástrico con ambas dietas estuvieron dentro de rangos normales. La dieta estandarizada con albúmina de huevo reconstituida aporta ventajas en cuanto al estudio de las posibles alteraciones de la motilidad gástrica, como sus características organolépticas y de volumen.