Differential Expression of Mitochondrial and Extramitochondrial Proteins in Lymphocytes of Male Broilers with Low and High Feed Efficiency

Studies were conducted to investigate relationships between mitochondrial and extramitochondrial protein expression, and protein oxidation in lymphocytes obtained from broilers in which individual feed efficiencies were obtained. Lymphocytes were isolated from male broilers from a single line that were shown to exhibit either low (0.48 +/- 0.02, n = 8) or high (0.68 +/- 0.01, n = 7) feed efficiency (FE). Western blot analysis showed that, compared with lymphocytes from high FE broilers, lymphocytes from low FE broilers exhibited a) higher amounts of oxidized proteins (protein carbonyls), b) lower amounts of 3 mitochondrial proteins [core I, cyt c 1 (complex III), and ATP synthase (complex V)], and c) higher amounts of 2 proteins [30 S (complex II) and COX II (complex IV)]. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis revealed that the intensities of 25 protein spots from pooled samples of lymphocytes from high and low FE broilers differed by 5-fold or more. Three of these protein spots were picked from the gel and subjected to matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry analysis. One protein spot of ~33 kDa was tentatively identified by MALDI-TOF as a fragment of collapsin-2, a component of semaphorin 3D. The results of this study provide further evidence of increased oxidation associated with low FE and further evidence of differential protein expression associated with the phenotypic expression of feed efficiency.

The results of limb lengthening by callus distraction using an extending intramedullary nail (Fitbone) in non-traumatic disorders

Limb lengthening by callus distraction and external fixation has a high rate of complications. We describe our experience using an intramedullary nail (Fitbone) which contains a motorised and programmable sliding mechanism for limb lengthening and bone transport. Between 2001 and 2004 we lengthened 13 femora and 11 tibiae in ten patients (seven men and three women) with a mean age of 32 years (21 to 47) using this nail. The indications for operation were short stature in six patients and developmental or acquired disorders in the rest.

The mean lengthening achieved was 40 mm (27 to 60). The mean length of stay in hospital was seven days (5 to 9). The mean healing index was 35 days/cm (18.8 to 70.9). There were no cases of implant-related infection or malunion.

Recovery of sensation in the skin of non-innervated radial flaps after subfascial and suprafascial dissection

We compared the extent of recovery of sensation in 40 non-innervated radial free flaps, 20 of which had been raised subfascially and 20 suprafascially. We found no significant difference in sensory recovery between the two groups. The mean extent of sensory recovery was light touch (68%); sharp touch (84%); warm (29%) and cold (40%) temperature; and static (25%) and moving (31%) two-point discrimination. Nearly all the flaps responded to at least one stimulus (excluding two-point discrimination) and half of them to three or more. Sharp touch sensation in the flap was similar to that in the surrounding tissues and light touch was less sensitive. There was no dysaesthesia. Recovery was not related to sex, age, alcohol consumption, or site of reconstruction. Smoking and radiotherapy had a slight effect.

Feed efficiency and mitochondrial function

Studies have been conducted in our laboratory to assess differences in mitochondrial function and biochemistry in male broilers with high and low feed efficiency (FE) from the same genetic line and fed the same diet. Mitochondria obtained from broilers with low FE exhibited greater uncoupling of the electron transport chain (ETC) that was apparently due to site-specific defects in electron transport resulting in higher amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared with high FE mitochondria. Higher amounts of ROS production in Low FE mitochondria were likely responsible for higher protein carbonyl levels, indicative of higher protein oxidation compared with High FE mitochondria and tissue. In turn, higher protein damage in Low FE mitochondria may have contributed to lower activity of electron transport chain complexes relative to values observed in high FE mitochondria. Low FE mitochondria did not exhibit a compromised ability to carryout oxidative phosphorylation, and although there were differences in expression of certain electron transport chain proteins, there was nothing that would indicate that differences in coupling and respiratory chain activity could be due to a general decrease in protein expression between low and high FE mitochondria. The results of these studies provide insight into understanding cellular mechanisms associated with the phenotypic expression of feed efficiency in broilers.

Production of fungal biomass immobilized loofa sponge (FBILS)-discs for the removal of heavy metal ions and chlorinated compounds from aqueous solution

A white rot basidiomycete, Phanerochaete chrysosporium, was immobilized on loofa sponge (FBILS) discs. It removed ca. 37 and 71 mg Cd (II) g(-1) from 50 and 200 mg l(-1) aqueous solutions and up to 89% of 4-chloroanisole from a 10 mg l(-1) aqueous solution. FBILS are physically strong and chemically recalcitrant, resisting temperature, mechanical agitation, and variations in pH without alteration to shape, structure or texture.

A comparison between portable ultrasound (MIDUS) and nocturnal RigiScan when confirming the diagnosis of vascular organic erectile disorder

In recent years, the use of RigiScan and ultrasound to assess erectile dysfunction has fallen from favour. However, in a small minority of specialist cases, where a vascular, neurogenic or psychogenic aetiology requires confirmation, there remains a need for further investigation. To establish if in a preliminary assessment the use of nocturnal RigiScan or male impotence diagnostic ultrasound system (MIDUS) represents best practice as a diagnostic investigation in patients with a history suggestive of vascular organic erectile disorder. Men attending both urological and psychosexual therapy clinics with erectile dysfunction were assessed using a generic assessment schedule. Patients with a history suggestive of vascular erectile disorder were offered the opportunity of dual investigation of their condition. After screening using a provocative RigiScan using visual stimuli that gleaned inconclusive results, patients were offered the chance to enter a study with both nocturnal RigiScan and MIDUS investigation. These were confined for the purposes of this study to RigiScan events, peak systolic flow velocity (PSV) and end-diastolic flow velocity (EDV) from ultrasound examination where an abnormal EDV is defined as in excess of 4.5 cm/s and a normal PSV is variously defined as being greater than 35 cm/s. In all, 38/43 (88%, 95% CI: 76-95%) of men had a nocturnal event exceeding 3 min on the RigiScan investigation. This compares with 17/43 (40%, 95% CI: 26-54%) of men with a normal EDV blood flow of less than 4.5 cm/s (P<0.017) and 32/43 (74%, CI: 60-85%) of men with a normal PSV flow greater than 35 cm/s (NS). Rigiscan and ultrasonography of the cavernosal vessels are of equal usefulness in suspected arterial penile disease although where veno-occlusive disease is suspected, ultrasonography is more specific.

Biochemical evaluation of mitochondrial respiratory chain in duodenum of low and high feed efficient broilers

Increased H2O2 production, indicating higher oxidative stress, and lower mitochondrial function was previously observed in duodenal mitochondria isolated from broilers with low feed efficiency (FE, gain:feed). Thus, experiments were conducted to 1) evaluate the activity of the respiratory chain complexes (complexes I to V) and 2) assess protein oxidation and mitochondrial protein expression in broilers with low and high FE. Duodenal mitochondria were isolated from broiler breeders with low (0.52 +/- 0.01) and high (0.68 +/- 0.01) FE (n = 8/group). Respiratory chain complex activities were measured spectrophotometrically, whereas mitochondrial protein expression and protein oxidation (carbonyls) were assessed with Western blots. The activities of all complexes, except complex IV, were lower in the low FE compared with high FE mitochondria, whereas protein carbonyl levels were higher in low FE mitochondria. Steady-state levels of 6 out of 7 nuclear-encoded respiratory chain subunits [70S(FP), core I, core II, cytochrome c (cyt c)1, iron-sulfur protein (ISP), and ATPase-alpha] were higher, whereas 3 out of 6 mitochondrial-encoded subunits (ND4, ND6-C, and COX II) were lower in the low FE group, suggesting that sensitivity of mitochondrial proteins to H2O2 or oxidation varies. The general reduction in complex activity and differential protein expression concomitant with higher oxidized proteins in low FE mitochondria suggest that oxidative stress could be contributing to the lower mitochondrial function observed in low FE duodenal mitochondria.

Loofa sponge immobilized fungal biosorbent: a robust system for cadmium and other dissolved metal removal from aqueous solution

The potential of loofa sponge discs to immobilize fungal biomass of Phanerochaete chrysosporium (a known biosorbent) was investigated as a low cost biosorbent for the removal of Cd(II) ions from aqueous solution. A comparison of the biosorption of Cd(II) by immobilized and free fungal biomass from 10 to 500 mg l(-1) aqueous solutions showed an increase in uptake of over 19% when the biomass is immobilized (maximum biosorption capacity of 89 and 74 mg Cd(II) g(-1) biomass for immobilized and free biomass respectively at a solution pH of 6). Equilibrium was established within 1h and biosorption was well defined by the Langmuir isotherm model. The immobilized biomass could be regenerated using 50 mM HCl, with up to 99% metal recovery and reused in ten biosorption-desorption cycles without significant loss of capacity. This study suggests that such an immobilized biosorbent system has the potential to be used in the industrial removal/recovery of cadmium and other pollutant metal ions from aqueous solution.

Compromised liver mitochondrial function and complex activity in low feed efficient broilers are associated with higher oxidative stress and differential protein expression

Variations in broiler growth and efficiency have been explained in part by differences in mitochondrial function and biochemistry in broilers. To further our knowledge in this regard, 2 experiments were carried out to determine the relationships of a) mitochondrial function and activities of various electron transport chain (ETC) complexes; b) production of H2O2, a reactive oxygen species (ROS), and its association with protein oxidation; and c) mitochondrial protein expression in liver of a single line male broilers with low or high feed efficiency (FE, n = 5 to 8 per group). Mitochondrial function and complex activities were measured polarographically and spectrophotometrically, respectively. H2O2 was measured fluorimetrically, whereas oxidized protein (carbonyls) and specific mitochondrial proteins were analyzed using Western blots. Mitochondrial function (ETC coupling) and activities of ETC complexes (I, II, III, and IV) were higher in high FE compared with low FE broilers. H2O2 and protein carbonyls were higher in the livers of low FE broilers than in high FE broilers. Whereas the expression of 4 immunoreactive proteins [NAD3 (complex I), subunit VII (complex III), cytochrome c oxidase subunits (COX) II, and COX IVb (complex IV)] were higher in low FE liver mitochondria and 2 proteins [subunit 70 (complex II) and a-ATP synthase (complex V)] were higher in high FE birds, there were no differences between groups in the expression of 18 other mitochondrial proteins. In conclusion, increases in oxidative stress in low FE broilers were caused by or may contribute to differences in mitochondrial function (ETC coupling and complex activities) or the differential expression of steady-state levels of some mitochondrial proteins in the liver. Understanding the role of oxidative stress in Low FE broilers will provide clues in understanding the cellular basis of feed efficiency.

Glutathione and respiratory chain complex activity in duodenal mitochondria of broilers with low and high feed efficiency

We previously observed increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in intestinal mitochondria obtained from broiler breeder males with low feed efficiency (FE, gain-to-feed). Because antioxidants are critical for combating ROS-mediated oxidative stress and preserving mitochondrial function, the objectives of this study were 1) to determine levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), a major antioxidant in mitochondria, 2) to measure activities of GSH recycling enzymes: GSH peroxidase and GSH reductase, and 3) to establish relationships between antioxidants and respiratory chain complex activities (complexes I, II, III, IV, and V) in broiler breeder males with low and high FE. Duodenal mitochondria were isolated from broilers with low (0.62 +/- 0.01, n = 8) and high (0.80 +/- 0.01, n = 8) FE. Activities of respiratory chain complexes, GSH peroxidase, and GSH reductase, and levels of GSH were measured by UV spectrophotometry. There were no differences in GSH peroxidase or reductase activities or in individual complex activities between groups but GSH levels tended to be higher (P = 0.075) and oxidized to reduced glutathione ratio tended to be lower (P = 0.077) in broilers with high FE. Regression analysis revealed significant correlations (P < or = 0.05) between mitochondrial GSH and activities of complexes II, IV, and V with R2 values of 0.35, 0.56, and 0.49, respectively. These data suggest that GSH may be important in maintaining or enhancing the activity of certain respiratory chain complexes and could be involved in the phenotypic expression of feed efficiency in broilers.

Repair of radial free flap donor site by full-thickness skin graft from inner arm

Sixty-two consecutive patients had 63 radial free flaps taken and the donor site repaired with either a full-thickness or split-skin graft. A full-thickness graft was harvested from the inner upper arm in 53 patients (85%). The donor site was assessed using a visual analogue scale, tactile sensitivity, and the Vancouver scar assessment score. All donor sites healed without complications except for two minor wound dehiscences. Both patients and surgeons rated the aesthetic outcome as good. The advantages included; single operation site; simple execution; thin hairless graft, good colour match and an inconspicuous scar causing minimal morbidity.

Novel method for cell immobilization and its application for production of organic acid

AIMS

The aim was to develop a novel and simple technique for the entrapment of fungal hyphae.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A novel immobilization technique was developed by using a structural fibrous network (SFN) of papaya wood as an immobilizing matrix. The technique is simple and a stable entrapment was achieved simply by inoculating the Aspergillus terreus hyphae within culture medium containing SFN pieces for 3 days, without any prior chemical treatment. Results show that SFN has no detrimental effect both on growth and bioactivity of fungi. A 23.5% increase in the itaconic acid production by SFN-immobilized A. terreus was noted when compared with free biomass. SFN-immobilized fungal biomass retained 95% itaconic acid productivity for five repeated batch cycles, 7 days each, without any disintegration/release of hyphae in the production medium.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report on the use of SFN, a structural material, as an immobilizing matrix for the entrapment of any kind of microbial biomass and its application in organic acid.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The low cost of SFN and simplicity of the technique applied for immobilization of fungal hyphae within/onto SFN make its use ideal for the immobilization of fungal biomass to produce commercially valuable products.

Determination of mitochondrial function and site-specific defects in electron transport in duodenal mitochondria in broilers with low and high feed efficiency

Duodenal mitochondria were isolated from broiler breeder males with high (0.79+/-0.01, n = 9) and low (0.63+/-0.02, n = 9) feed efficiency (FE) to assess relationships of FE with duodenal mitochondrial function and site-specific defects in electron transport. Sequential additions of adenosine diphosphate (ADP) resulted in 1) higher respiratory control ratio (RCR; an index of respiratory chain coupling) in high FE mitochondria provided succinate, and 2) higher ADP to oxygen ratio (ADP:O; an index of oxidative phosphorylation) in low FE mitochondria provided NADH-linked substrates (malate, pyruvate, or both). Basal electron leak, measured as H2O2 production, was greater in low FE mitochondria provided succinate (P = 0.08) or NADH-linked substrates. As H2O2 levels were elevated in low FE compared with high FE mitochondria by complex I (P+/-0.07) and complex II inhibition, the higher basal electron leak in low FE mitochondria was apparently due to site-specific defects in electron transport at complexes I and II. Elevations in H2O2 above basal levels indicated that high FE mitochondria may also exhibit electron transport defects at complexes I and III. Despite an ability to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP) that was equal or superior to that demonstrated in high FE duodenal mitochondria, low FE mitochondria exhibited a greater inherent degree of electron leak. The results provide insight into the role that duodenal mitochondria play in the phenotypic expression of FE in broilers.

Time-integrated thyroid dose for accidental releases from Pakistan Research Reactor-1

The two-hourly time-integrated thyroid dose due to radio-iodines released to the atmosphere through the exhaust stack of Pakistan Research Reactor-1 (PARR-1), under accident conditions, has been calculated. A computer program, PAKRAD (which was developed under an IAEA research grant, PAK/RCA/8990), was used for the dose calculations. The sensitivity of the dose results to different exhaust flow rates and atmospheric stability classes was studied. The effect of assuming a constant activity concentration (as a function of time) within the containment air volume and an exponentially decreasing air concentration on the time-integrated dose was also studied for various flow rates (1000-50000 m3 h(-1)). The comparison indicated that the results were insensitive to the containment air exhaust rates up to or below 2000 m3 h(-1), when the prediction with the constant activity concentration assumption was compared to an exponentially decreasing activity concentration model. The results also indicated that the plume touchdown distance increases with increasing atmospheric stability.

Differential expression of mitochondrial electron transport chain proteins in cardiac tissues of broilers from pulmonary hypertension syndrome-resistant and -susceptible lines

Pulmonary hypertension syndrome (PHS) is a metabolic disease associated with the rapid growth rate of modern broilers. Broilers susceptible to PHS experience sustained elevation of pulmonary arterial pressure leading to right ventricular hypertrophy and ultimately heart failure. Previous studies have shown that mitochondrial function is defective in broilers with PHS; they use oxygen less efficiently than broilers without PHS. In this study mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) protein levels were compared in cardiac tissues from PHS resistant and susceptible line broilers using quantitative immunoblots. Seven of 9 anti-mammalian mitochondrial ETC protein antibodies tested exhibited cross-species reactivity. Six ETC proteins were differentially expressed in the right ventricles of broilers raised under simulated high altitude conditions (2,900 m above sea level). Four ETC proteins were present at higher levels in resistant line birds without PHS than in resistant line birds with PHS or in susceptible line birds with or without PHS. One ETC protein was present at higher levels in broilers without PHS than in broilers with PHS in both lines, and one ETC protein was present at lower levels in susceptible line birds without PHS than in susceptible line birds with PHS or in resistant line birds with or without PHS. Interestingly, differential expression of mitochondrial ETC proteins was not observed in the right ventricles of broilers raised at local altitude (390 m above sea level) nor was it observed in the left ventricles of broilers exposed to simulated high altitude. These results suggest that higher levels of mitochondrial ETC proteins in right ventricle cardiac muscle may be correlated with resistance to PHS in broilers.

Investigation of proton conductance in liver mitochondria of broilers with pulmonary hypertension syndrome

We previously reported an impaired ability to regulate hepatic mitochondrial state 4 respiration rate in response to sequential additions of adenosine diphosphate in pulmonary hypertension syndrome (PHS). As proton conductance is a major contributor to State 4 respiration, the major goal of this study was to investigate the nature of proton conductance in hepatic mitochondria isolated from broilers with and without PHS. Broilers were placed on floor litter in environmental chambers and exposed to cold temperatures (15 degrees C) from 3 to 7 wk of age to induce PHS. Liver mitochondria were isolated from birds that exhibited PHS (cyanosis, right ventricular weight ratio > 0.30) or from birds that appeared healthy (no cyanosis, right ventricular weight ratio < 0.27). Isolated mitochondria were placed in a chamber equipped with the ability to measure oxygen content and mitochondrial membrane potential. The mitochondrial membrane potential was assessed by an ion sensitive electrode to measure the distribution of methyltriphenylphosphonium across the inner mitochondrial membrane. Proton conductance was assessed by simultaneously measuring State 4 oxygen consumption rate as respiration was progressively inhibited with increasing concentrations of malonate. The addition of cardiolipin, a lipid found in high concentrations in mitochondrial membranes that can alter proton conductance, had no affect on respiration or mitochondrial membrane potential in either group. The relationship of curves depicting State 4 respiration and mitochondrial membrane potential indicates that PHS mitochondria exhibit impaired substrate oxidation and reduced proton conductance relative to controls. These findings provide further characterization of the altered cellular oxygen utilization in broilers with PHS.

Removal and recovery of nickel(II) from aqueous solution by loofa sponge-immobilized biomass of Chlorella sorokiniana: characterization studies

The biosorption process for the removal of nickel(II) by loofa sponge-immobilized biomass of Chlorella sorokiniana (LIBCS), a newly developed immobilized biosorbent, was characterized. Effects of environmental factors on metal uptake capacity of LIBCS were studied and compared with free biomass of C. sorokiniana (FBCS). Nickel(II) removal by LIBCS was found to be influenced by pH of the solution, initial metal concentration, and biomass concentration. The biosorption of nickel(II) ions by both LIBCS and FBCS increased as the initial concentration of nickel(II) ions increased in the medium. No loss to biosorption capacity of LIBCS for nickel(II) was found due to the presence of loofa sponge, indeed as compared to FBCS an increase of 25.3% was noted in the biosorption capacity of LIBCS. Maximum biosorption capacities for FBCS and LIBCS were found as 48.08 and 60.38 mg nickel(II)/g, respectively, whereas the amount of nickel(II) ions adsorbed on the plain loofa sponge was 6.1mg/g. During these biosorption studies, LIBCS exhibited excellent physical and chemical stability without any significant release/loss of microalgal biomass from loofa sponge matrix. The kinetics of nickel(II) removal was extremely fast reaching at equilibrium in about 15 min for LIBCS and 20 min for FBCS. The biosorption equilibrium was well described by the Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms. The biosorption capacities were found to be solution pH dependent and the maximum adsorption was found at a solution pH 4-5. The LIBCS could be regenerated using 75 mM HCl, with up to 98% recovery. The LIBCS were shown to be robust and stable with little decrease in the nickel(II) uptake capacity when used in consecutive seven biosorption-desorption cycles. Continuous removal of nickel(II) from electroplating effluent by LIBCS packed in fixed bed column bioreactor confirm the possibility of developing a biological treatment process for the removal of toxic metals from authentic wastewater.

Low Feed Efficient Broilers Within a Single Genetic Line Exhibit Higher Oxidative Stress and Protein Expression in Breast Muscle with Lower Mitochondrial Complex Activity

The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of low or high feed efficiency (FE) on a) protein oxidation, b) the activities of various respiratory chain complexes, and c) expression of various mitochondrial proteins in male broilers within a single genetic line. Tissue homogenate or mitochondria were isolated from breast muscle of broilers with high (0.80 +/- 0.01) and low FE (0.62 +/- 0.02). The complex activities were measured spectrophotometrically, and the levels of oxidized protein (carbonyl) and immunoreactive mitochondrial proteins were analyzed using Western blots. Protein carbonyl levels were higher in low FE compared with high FE broilers breast muscle, which indicated enhanced protein oxidation in low FE mitochondria. Activities of all respiratory chain complexes (I, II, III, IV) were higher in high FE compared with low FE broilers for breast mitochondria. Whereas the expression of immunoreactive proteins was higher in low FE muscle mitochondria for 5 mitochondrial proteins [core I, cyt c1, cyt b (complex III), COX II (cytochrome c oxidase subunit II, complex IV), and adenine nucleotide translocator (ANT1)], there were no differences between groups in the expression of 9 other respiratory chain protein subunits associated with complexex I, II, III, IV, and V. SDS-PAGE revealed a protein band of 47 kDa that was expressed at a higher level in low FE compared with high FE mitochondria. The differential expression of certain mitochondrial proteins and the 47-kDa band might be a compensatory response either to the lower complex activities or increased protein oxidation observed in low FE birds.

Alginate coated loofa sponge discs for the removal of cadmium from aqueous solutions

A biosorbent was prepared by coating the fibrous network of loofa sponge (Luffa cylindrica) with a thin film of calcium alginate. Alginate-coated loofa sponge removed Cd(II) rapidly, reaching equilibrium loading of 124 mg g(-1) in 30 min. Seventy % of equilibrium uptake was achieved in 10 min. In contrast, it took 240 min for alginate beads to reach a loading equilibrium of 88 mg g(-1) under identical conditions. The biosorption behaviour followed the Langmuir adsorption isotherm and the ACLS biosorbent was shown to be highly effective in removing Cd(II) from a 10 mg l(-1) solution in a continuous flow fixed-bed column bioreactor.

Microalgal-luffa sponge immobilized disc: a new efficient biosorbent for the removal of Ni(II) from aqueous solution

AIMS

The aim was to develop a new, efficient and cost-effective biosorbent for the removal of heavy metals from aqueous solution.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A new biosorbent was developed by immobilizing a unicellular green microalga Chlorella sorokiniana within luffa sponge discs and used for the removal of metal ions from aqueous solution. Microalgal-luffa sponge immobilized discs (MLIDs) removed Ni(II) very rapidly, with 97% of equilibrium loading being reached in 5 min. MLIDs were tested for their potential to remove Ni(II) from aqueous solution in fixed-bed column bioreactor. The regenerated MLIDs retained 92.9% of the initial binding capacity for Ni(II) up to five cycles of reuse.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study for the first time, C. sorokiniana biomass immobilized within luffa sponge disc was successfully used as a metal biosorbent for the removal of Ni(II). It appears that MLIDs can be used as an effective biosorbent for efficient removal of Ni(II) or other metals from aqueous solution.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

MLIDs biosorption system was shown to have good biosorption properties with respect to Ni(II). Efficient metal removal ability of MLIDs, low cost and simplicity of the technique used for the preparation of MILDs could provide an attractive strategy for developing high-affinity biosorption system for heavy metal removal.

Hepatitis B and C single and co-infection in chronic liver disease and their effect on the disease pattern

OBJECTIVE

To find the frequency of hepatitis B and C virus (HBV and HCV) infection and their coinfection in chronic liver disease and any differences in the clinical features of single and coinfections. METHODOLGY: All clinically recognisable adult CLD patients admitted to Military Hospital, Rawalpindi in years 1999-2000, were included in the study. Their history and clinical features were recorded. Seromarkers for HBV (HBsAg, anti-HBc) and HCV (anti-HCV) were done.

RESULTS

A total of 97 (52 male, 45 female) patients were included in the study. Mean age was 51.6 years (range 16-75 years). Cirrhosis was present in 74.2%, chronic hepatitis (Ch Hep) in 18.6% and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in 7.2%. Among the 74.1% patients with cirrhosis 28.5% were HBsAg positive, 55.5% anti-HBc positive and 68.1% anti HCV positive. In the chronic hepatitis cases 27.8% were HBsAg positive, 23.6% anti-HBc positive and 61.1% anti HCV positive. Among the patients of HCC 59.7% were HBsAg positive, 71.4% anti-HBc positive and 42% anti HCV positive. Regarding coinfection 7.2% were anti-HCV and HBsAg positive while 35.1% were anti-HCV and anti-HBc positive.

CONCLUSION

Ninety percent of patients with CLD had evidence of HBV, HCV or coinfection. Disease was more severe in patients with coinfection. Anti-HBc was found to be a sensitive indicator of past HBV.

Nasal delivery of chitosan-DNA plasmid expressing epitopes of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) induces protective CTL responses in BALB/c mice

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), an important pathogen of the lower respiratory tract, is responsible for severe illness both in new born and young children and in elderly people. Due to complications associated with the use of the early developed vaccines, there is still a need for an effective vaccine against RSV. Most pathogens enter the body via mucosal surfaces and therefore vaccine delivery via routes such as the nasal, may well prove to be superior in inducing protective immune responses against respiratory viruses, since both local and systemic immunity can be induced by nasal immunisation. Previously we have shown that intradermal immunisation of a plasmid DNA encoding the CTL epitope from the M2 protein of RSV induced protective CTL responses. In the present study, the mucosal delivery of plasmid DNA formulated with chitosan has been investigated. Chitosan is a polysachharide consisting of copolymers of N-acetylglucosamine and glucosamine that is derived from chitin, a material found in the shells of crustacea. Intranasal immunisation with plasmid DNA formulated with chitosan induced peptide- and virus-specific CTL responses in BALB/c mice that were comparable to those induced via intradermal immunisation. Following RSV challenge of chitosan/DNA immunised mice, a significant reduction (P<0.001) in the virus load was observed in the lungs of immunised mice compared to that in the control group. These results indicate the potential of immunisation with chitosan-formulated epitope-based vaccines via the intranasal route.

Removal of heavy metals from contaminated water by petiolar felt-sheath of palm

The ability of a reticulated fibrous network of palm petiolar felt-sheath (PPF) to remove toxic metals such as Cd, Cu and Zn from contaminated water was investigated as a new biosorbent system. PPF was found to sequester metal ions efficiently from dilute aqueous solutions with a selectivity order of Cd > Cu > Zn. The extent of adsorption was found to be dependent on pH, metal ion concentration and amount of biosorbent. The metal uptake was completed in a short time and contact of 30 min was observed to be optimum. The adsorption of all the three metals followed Langmuir isotherm. The bound metal ions were successfully desorbed and the PPF fibrous-biomass remained effective during five adsorption-desorption cycles. Present studies suggest that PPF has potential to be used in the removal/recovery of heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions.

Susceptibility patterns of Escherichia coli: prevalence of multidrug-resistant isolates and extended spectrum beta-lactamase phenotype

OBJECTIVE

To study Escherichia coli (E. coli) susceptibility, prevalence of multidrug-resistant isolates and possible role of extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) in E. coli resistance.

SETTING

Department of Medicine, Shifa College of Medicine, Islamabad.

METHODS

Three hundred and seventy eight E. coli isolates from different sources were identified during six-month period. Susceptibility to various antibiotics was checked using standard methods. Multidrug-resistant isolates were separated. Isolates resistant to cefpodoxime and aztreonam were considered as ESBL phenotype, indicating ESBL production.

RESULTS

Most of isolates were resistant to ampicillin and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. Overall resistance to ciprofloxacin, ceftriaxone, cefotaxime and cefpodoxime was 49%, 34%, 36% and 38% respectively. Resistance to fourth generation cephalosporins was lower. Almost all Isolates were sensitive to amikacin, imipenem and tazobactam. Aztreonam resistance was found in 25% isolates. Similar pattern was observed for urinary E. coli isolates; 45% E. coli isolates were found to be multidrug-resistant. Nitrofurantoin showed low-level resistance both to multidrug-resistant as well as urinary isolates. Resistance to both cefpodoxime and aztreonam was found in 25% isolates suggesting ESBL production.

CONCLUSION

E. coli resistance in Pakistan is much higher than reported from western literature. Multidrug-resistant isolates, including third generation cephalosporins and quinolones, are very common. ESBL production may contribute to this high level resistance against beta-lactams.

Immunohistochemical evidence of cytochrome C oxidase subunit II involvement in pulmonary hypertension syndrome (PHS) in broilers

Defects and variation in the relative amount of protein subunits in the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) have been hypothesized to be involved, in part, in the pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension syndrome (PHS), a costly metabolic disease. Thus, the major objective of this study was to determine whether differences in relative amounts of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I and II (COX I and II) can be detected by immunohistochemistry and digital image analysis in muscle tissue of broilers with PHS compared to control broilers. Cross sections of the breast muscle (pectoralis major) were stained with monoclonal antibodies for COX I and II. Relative areas of multiple microscope viewing fields (400x) per tissue section of COX I and II were quantified by counting immunopositive pixels on the digital images. Whereas the number of immunopositive pixels for COX II was higher in PHS birds compared to controls, there were no difference for COX I. The amount of COX II was positively correlated with the right to total ventricular weight ratio (RV:TV), suggesting that there may be increased expression of COX II associated with severity of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Thus, it is possible that COX II expression in PHS broiler may be involved in the pathogenesis of PHS.

Heart and breast muscle mitochondrial dysfunction in pulmonary hypertension syndrome in broilers (Gallus domesticus)

This study was conducted to determine function and defects in electron transport in muscle mitochondria of meat chickens (broilers) with pulmonary hypertension syndrome (PHS). The respiratory control ratio (RCR, indicative of respiratory chain coupling) was higher in the control than in PHS breast and heart muscle mitochondria, but there were no differences in the ADP/O (an index of oxidative phosphorylation). Sequential additions of ADP improved the RCR in the control breast muscle mitochondria and the ADP/O in PHS breast and heart muscle mitochondria. Basal hydrogen peroxide production, (an indicator of electron leak), was higher in PHS breast and heart muscle mitochondria than in controls and differences in electron leak in PHS mitochondria were magnified by inhibiting electron transport at Complex I and III (cyt b(562)). Complex I activity was lower in PHS heart mitochondria but there was no difference in Complex II activity. Thus, compared to controls, PHS mitochondria exhibited site-specific defects in electron transport within Complex I and III that could contribute to lower respiratory chain coupling. Additionally, it appears that healthy broilers may exhibit higher basal levels of electron leak compared to other avian species. Together, these findings provide insight into inefficient cellular use of oxygen that may contribute to the development of PHS in broilers.

Multiwall carbon nanotubes as quantum dots

We have measured the differential conductance of individual multiwall carbon nanotubes. Coulomb blockade and energy level quantization are observed. The electron levels are nearly fourfold degenerate (including spin) and their evolution in magnetic field (Zeeman splitting) agrees with a g factor of 2. In zero magnetic field the sequential filling of states evolves with spin S according to S = 0-->1/2-->0.... A Kondo enhancement of the conductance is observed when the number of electrons on the tube is odd.

Association of mitochondrial function with feed efficiency within a single genetic line of male broilers

Studies were conducted to determine relationships between feed efficiency and mitochondrial function and biochemistry. After feed efficiency (FE; gain:feed) was determined in broiler breeder males between 6 and 7 wk of age, mitochondria were isolated from breast and leg muscle from birds with high FE (0.83+/-0.01, n = 6) and low FE (0.64+/-0.01, n = 7). Respiratory chain coupling, assessed by the respiratory control ratio (RCR), was greater in high FE breast, and leg mitochondria provided NADH-linked, but not FADH-linked, energy substrates. There were no differences, however, in the adenosine diphosphate to oxygen (ADP:O) ratio (an index of oxidative phosphorylation) when mitochondria were provided either energy substrate. Electron leak, as determined by generation of H202, was greater in the low FE than in high FE breast mitochondria. Electron leak increased following inhibition of electron transport at Complex I (with rotenone) and Complex III (with antimycin A) in low FE but not in high FE breast mitochondria. There were no differences in basal electron leak in leg mitochondria between groups, but H202 generation was elevated (P < 0.07) compared to basal values in low FE leg mitochondria after Complex I inhibition. The activities of Complexes I and II were greater in high FE breast and leg muscle mitochondria compared to those in low FE mitochondria. The results indicate that lower respiratory chain coupling in low FE muscle mitochondria may be due to lower activities of Complexes I and II and defects in electron leak and provide insight into cellular mechanisms associated with the phenotypic expression of feed efficiency in broilers.

Antioxidant enzyme activities and mitochondrial fatty acids in pulmonary hypertension syndrome (PHS) in broilers

Major objectives of this study were to assess antioxidant protection and fatty acid profile in lung mitochondria and whole liver in broilers with pulmonary hypertension syndrome [(PHS; with and without high dietary vitamin E (VE)] (Experiment 1) and in broilers that did not develop PHS but were genetically selected (S) or not selected (NS) for resistance to PHS (Experiment 2). In Experiment 1, lung mitochondrial glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity was elevated in broilers with PHS compared to controls, broilers fed high VE, and broilers fed high VE with PHS (VE-PHS), but there were no differences in GSH reductase (GSH-Rd) among groups. In liver tissue, GSH-Px was also elevated by PHS but was lower in VE and VE-PHS groups than in controls. There were no differences in liver GSH-Rd, superoxide dismutase (SOD), or gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase (gamma-GCS) activities with the exception that gamma-GCS was higher in the VE-PHS group than in the other groups. In Experiment 2, S lung mitochondria exhibited lower GSH-Px and higher GSH-Rd compared to NS broilers. In the liver, there were no differences in GSH-Px, GSH-Rd, or gamma-GCS, but SOD was lower in S compared to the NS broilers. High VE increased the percentage of saturated fatty acids and decreased the percentage of unsaturated fatty acids in lung mitochondria in Experiment 1; there were no differences in fatty acid content between S and NS mitochondria in Experiment 2. Thus, it appears that GSH recycling enzyme activities are affected by PHS and high VE presumably in response to differences in oxidative stress and that genetic resistance to PHS is associated with an inherently better capability to metabolize oxidants in lung mitochondria. The increase in saturation of lung mitochondrial fatty acids with high dietary VE would presumably make them more resistant to oxidative stress and, thus, reduce the level of PHS-induced oxidative stress.

Petiolar felt-sheath of palm: a new biosorbent for the removal of heavy metals from contaminated water

Biosorption of heavy metals such as Pb2+, Ni2+, Cd2+, Cu2+, Cr3+ and Zn2+ by petiolar felt-sheath of palm (PFP) from contaminated water was examined. PFP was found to efficiently remove all the toxic metal ions with selectivity order of Pb2+ > Cd2+ > Cu2+ > Zn2+ > Ni2+ > Cr3+. The uptake was rapid, with more than 70% completed within 15 min. The bound metal ions were successfully desorbed and the PFP fibrous-biomass remained effective after several adsorption-desorption cycles.

Lung mitochondrial dysfunction in pulmonary hypertension syndrome. II. Oxidative stress and inability to improve function with repeated additions of adenosine diphosphate

The major objective of this study was to examine lung mitochondrial dysfunction and antioxidants in pulmonary hypertension syndrome (PHS) in broilers. Lung mitochondria were obtained from broilers fed diets containing 15 IU (control) and 100 IU dl-alpha-tocopherol acetate, i.e., vitamin E (VE)/kg with and without PHS; the four treatment groups were control, VE, PHS, and VE-PHS, respectively (Experiment 1), or from healthy broilers genetically selected or not selected for resistance to PHS (Experiment 2). Mitochondrial function was assessed with sequential additions of adenosine diphosphate (ADP) to mimic a repeated demand for energy. Compared to controls, PHS mitochondria in Experiment 1 exhibited mitochondrial dysfunction [lower respiratory control (RCR) and ADP:O ratios and an inability to improve function with repeated energy demand] and oxidative stress [lower alpha-tocopherol and reduced glutathione (GSH) and higher oxidized glutathione levels (GSSG)]. High dietary alpha-tocopherol had no effect on lung mitochondrial function in healthy broilers (VE vs. controls) but attenuated dysfunction in VE-PHS mitochondria. In Experiment 2, there were no differences in selected and nonselected mitochondrial function following a single addition of ADP, but nonselected mitochondria exhibited lower RCR and ADP:O values with repeated energy demand. Higher GSSG levels were also observed in nonselected lung. The results indicate that lung mitochondrial dysfunction present in broilers with PHS was associated with oxidative stress and may be attenuated by high dietary vitamin E. Furthermore, genetic resistance to PHS was associated with more efficient oxidative phosphorylation in lung mitochondria and an inherently lower degree of oxidative stress.

Accelerated tissue aging and increased oxidative stress in broiler chickens fed allopurinol

Uric acid has been hypothesized as being one of the more important antioxidants in limiting the accumulation of glycosylated endproducts in birds. Study 1 was designed to quantitatively manipulate the plasma concentrations of uric acid using hemin and allopurinol while study 2 determined their effects on skin pentosidine, the shear force value of Pectoralis major muscle, plasma glucose, body weight and chemiluminescence monitored oxidative stress in broiler chickens. Hemin was hypothesized to raise uric acid concentrations thereby lowering oxidative stress whereas allopurinol was hypothesized to lower uric acid concentrations and raise measures of oxidative stress. In study 1 feeding allopurinol (10 mg/kg body weight) to 8-week-old broiler chicks (n=50) for 10 days decreased plasma uric acid by 57%. However, hemin (10 mg/kg body weight) increased uric acid concentrations 20%. In study 2, 12-week-old broiler chicks (n=90) were randomly assigned to either an ad libitum (AL) diet or a diet restricted (DR) group. Each group was further divided into three treatments (control, allopurinol or hemin fed). Unexpectedly, hemin did not significantly effect uric acid concentrations but increased (P<0.05) measures of chemiluminescence dependent oxidative stress in both the DR and AL birds probably due to the ability of iron to generate oxygen radicals. Allopurinol lowered concentrations of uric acid and increased (P<0.05) the oxidative stress in the AL birds at week 22, reduced (P<0.05) body weight in both the AL and DR fed birds at 16 and 22 weeks of age, and markedly increased (P<0.001) shear force values of the pectoralis major muscle. Skin pentosidine levels increased (P<0.05) in AL birds fed allopurinol or hemin fed birds, but not in the diet restricted birds at 22 weeks. The significance of these studies is that concentrations of plasma uric acid can be related to measures of oxidative stress, which can be linked to tissue aging.

Policy of universal salt iodization in Bangladesh: do coastal people benefit?

Iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) are a serious public-health problem in Bangladesh and in other countries. Use of iodized salt has been promoted to solve the problem. A study was conducted in eight unions of Chakaria upazila in the Cox's Bazar district of Bangladesh during 1997-1998 to determine the prevalence of use of iodized salt, explore the reasons behind nonuse, and identify the socioeconomic correlates of its use. A quantitative survey was conducted to collect information from 21,190 households on socioeconomic status, demographic characteristics, and the kind of salt used. In-depth interviews and focus-group discussions were also conducted to understand the situation further. The results revealed that only 1.9% of the households used iodized salt. Strong barriers that limit their use of iodized salt included the wide availability of coarse salt, lack of knowledge about the link between iodized salt and IDD, and the high cost of iodized salt. Households in the salt-producing localities and those that are economically disadvantaged tend to use iodized salt less than others. Understanding of the prevalent situation will allow the policy-makers to take measures to improve the situation in the salt-producing areas.

Intrathoracic desmoid tumor mimicking primary lung neoplasm

Most reported thoracic desmoid tumors originate from the chest wall. However, intrathoracic desmoid tumors are rare. The pathogenesis of these tumors is unclear but antecedent trauma and operation have been implicated. Desmoid tumors can present either with pain or be incidentally detected on radiographic studies. We describe the case of a 60-year-old woman with an intrathoracic desmoid detected on a routine screening chest roentgenogram who underwent complete surgical resection of the tumor.

Immunodetectable cyclin D(1)is associated with oestrogen receptor but not Ki67 in normal, cancerous and precancerous breast lesions

Cyclin D1 is associated with cell cycle regulation and has more recently been shown to stimulate the transcriptional functions of the oestrogen receptor (ER). Furthermore, in normal breast there is a negative association between expression of ER and the proliferation marker Ki67 indicating that either ER positive cells are non-dividing or that the receptor is down-regulated as cells enter cycle. This important relationship breaks down in many ER-positive cancers and precancerous breast lesions where the receptor is often detected on proliferating cells. The aims of the present study were to determine the interplay between ER, Ki67 and cyclin D(1)in individual cells within the spectrum of human breast lesions ranging from normal to invasive carcinoma by using dual staining immunofluorescence. We found that in normal breast there was a strong positive association between ER and cyclin D(1)expression. In contrast there was a strong negative association between cyclin D(1)and Ki67 expression. Similar findings were seen for the other precancerous and cancerous breast lesions. Thus immunodetectable cyclin D(1)within individual cells does not appear to be associated with cell cycle progression in the benign or malignant breast but instead may have important interactions with ER.