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[Display omitted] Recently, surging interests exist in direct electrochemical ammonia (NH 3) synthesis from nitric oxide (NO) due to the dual benefit of NH 3 synthesis and NO removal. However, designing highly efficient catalysts is still challenging. Based on density functional theory, the best ten candidates of transition-metal atoms (TMs) embedded in phosphorus carbide (PC) monolayer is screened out as highly active catalysts for direct NO-to-NH 3 electroreduction. The employment of machine learning-aided theoretical calculations helps to identify the critical role of TM-d orbitals in regulating NO activation. A V-shape tuning rule of TM-d orbitals for the Gibbs free energy change of NO or limiting potentials is further revealed as the design principle of TM embedded PC (TM-PC) for NO-to-NH 3 electroreduction. Moreover, after employing effective screening strategies including surface stability, selectivity, the kinetic barrier of potential-determining step, and thermal stability comprehensively studied for the ten TM-PC candidates, only Pt embedded PC monolayer has been identified as the most promising direct NO-to-NH 3 electroreduction with high feasibility and catalytic performance. This work not only offers a promising catalyst but also sheds light on the active origin and design principle of PC-based single-atom catalysts for NO-to-NH 3 conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The metallo‐β‐lactamases (MβLs) produced by pathogens has issued a challenge to the treatment of bacterial infections worldwide. A number of oxazolethioacetamides were designed and synthesized as potential MβLs inhibitors. Most of the compounds displayed inhibitory activity against MβL L1 with an IC50 value range of 0.19–0.38 μM. The fluorine substituted compounds also inhibited VIM‐2 with IC50 value of 2.1 to 6.8 μM. Molecule Docking showed the style and position of electron withdrawing groups played important role between the oxazolethioacetamides and MβLs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High internal phase emulsions (HIPEs) stabilized by debranched starch-capric acid (DBS-CA) complex nanoparticles were fabricated and their performance was evaluated. DBS-CA was prepared through enzymatic debranching and solid encapsulation methods, and displayed V-type crystalline structure. Contact angle measurements show enhanced hydrophobicity of DBS-CA compared to native starch. The DBS-CA nanoparticles have an average size of 463.77 nm and tended to be aggregating as analyzed by scanning electron microscope and dynamic light scattering particle size analysis. When used as a particulate emulsifier, DBS-CA could stabilize HIPEs with oil volume fraction as high as 80%. The HIPEs showed pH-dependent properties; good storage stability and mechanical strength were achieved within pH range from 3 to 11, especially under alkaline conditions. It was proposed that smaller particle size and higher surface charging were responsible for the more tightly connected gel structure and thus their performance. This study demonstrates a novel approach to fabricate food-grade Pickering HIPEs, which may have many promising potential applications in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lutein, a potent antioxidant and the main macular pigment that protects the macula from light-initiated oxidative damage, has low bioavailability. Various nanoscale delivery systems have been developed for improving its bioavailability. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of nanoscale delivery systems on improving lutein bioavailability in rodent models. Using EBSCOhost and PubMed, a total of eleven peer-reviewed articles published from 2000 to 2020 were identified. Plasma lutein concentration, pharmacokinetic parameters, including maximum concentration (Cmax), area under curve (AUC), and time to reach the maximum concentration (Tmax), and lutein accumulation in organs were extracted to evaluate the bioavailability of lutein using nanoscale delivery methods as compared with unencapsulated or raw lutein. Various nanoscale delivery systems, including polymer nanoparticles, emulsions, and lutein nanoparticles, significantly improved the bioavailability of lutein, as evidenced by increased plasma lutein concentrations, Cmax, or AUC. Additionally, five out of seven studies observed enhanced accumulation of lutein in the liver and the eyes. Polymer nanoparticles and emulsions improve the dispersibility and stability of lutein, thus lutein might be more accessible in the small intestine. Lutein nanoparticles shortened the Tmax. Further studies are warranted to evaluate the effectiveness of nanoscale delivery systems on improving the functionalities of lutein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high specific surface area and electrical conductivity of new 2D metal carbide MXenes make them become a suitable candidate as sensor platform of the gas sensor. Herein, density functional theory (DFT) is implemented to investigate the adsorption of the SF6 decomposed gases (SOF2, SO2, and H2S) on Ti3C2O2, Ti3C2F2, and Ti3C2(OH)2. Modification of the surface of Ti3C2O2 and Ti3C2F2 by O and F point vacancy, respectively, is then performed to improve the adsorption performance. The band structure, charge density differences, electron localization function (ELF), and projected density of states (PDOS) are investigated to study the adsorption mechanism. The results indicate that as compared with the weak adsorption on pristine Ti3C2O2 and Ti3C2F2, the SOF2, SO2, and H2S gas molecules tend to be chemisorbed on Ti3C2O2 and Ti3C2F2 with point vacancy with high adsorption energies. Furthermore, the study of electronic properties suggests that all adsorption systems show high electronic conductivity and the exposed Ti atoms by point defect mainly contribute to the formation of ionic bond with high adsorption energy. Thus, the present results show that Ti3C2O2 and Ti3C2F2 with point vacancy are feasible novel sensing materials to detect SF6 decomposed species with high sensitivity and low electronic noise. The sensitive detection capability of SO2 is particularly noticeable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Starch/amylose-guest inclusion complexes, a class of supramolecular host-guest assemblies, are of critical importance in the processing, preservation, digestion, nutrients/energy uptake, and health outcomes of starch-containing foods. Particularly, the formation of inclusion complex has been suggested to lower the rate and extent of enzymatic digestion of starch and starch-containing foods. Compared with rapidly digestible starch, starch inclusion complex may fall into the category of slowly digestible starch, providing sustained glucose release and maintaining glucose homeostasis. Therefore, the ability of starch-guest inclusion complex to alter the digestive behavior of energy-dense starchy foods has been of interest to many researchers and has the potential to be developed and formulated into functional foods. In this article, we provide a comprehensive and critical review on the current knowledge of the in vitro and in vivo enzymatic digestion of starch-guest inclusion complexes, by emphasizing the structure-digestibility relationship. We examine the preparation methods employed, crystalline structures obtained, and physicochemical properties characterized in previous reports, which all have implications on the digestive behavior reported on the starch-guest inclusion complexes. In addition, we give suggestions on future research to elucidate the digestive properties of starch-guest inclusion complexes and to develop functional structures based on these complexes for use in foods and nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe microwave and millimeter-wave (MMW) imaging technology is gaining increasing interest for food inspection. It allows for noninvasive, contactless, and fast scanning capabilities, while being cost-efficient and safe to human. This review paper introduces the fundamentals in the interaction of electromagnetic wave with food materials and the current MMW sensing and imaging systems used for foods. Then we present emerging technologies in MMW imaging for inspecting food quality and safety, aiming to meet the modern food industry’s demand. According to the most recent technological advancements, it is expected that high-performance antenna, ultrawide bandwidth signal generation, nano-scale semiconductor technologies, radio frequency identification with inductance-capacitance resonator, and machine learning could significantly enhance the capabilities of MMW imaging systems for food inspection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractMacular carotenoids, which consist of lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin, are dietary antioxidants and macular pigments in the eyes, protecting the macula from light-induced oxidative stress. Lutein is also the main carotenoid in the infant brain and is involved in cognitive development. While a few articles reviewed the role of lutein in early health and development, the current review is the first that focuses on the outcomes of lutein supplementation, either provided to mothers or to infants. Additionally, lutein status and metabolism during pregnancy and lactation, factors that limit the potential application of lutein as a nutritional intervention, and solutions to overcome the limitation are also discussed. In brief, the lutein intake in pregnant and lactating women in the United States may not be optimal. Furthermore, preterm and formula-fed infants are known to have compromised lutein status compared to term and breast-fed infants, respectively. While lutein supplementation via both maternal and infant consumption improves lutein status in infants, the application of lutein as a nutritional intervention may be compromised by its low bioavailability. Various encapsulation techniques have been developed to enhance the delivery of lutein in adult animals or human but should be further evaluated in neonatal models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract p -Coumaric acid (CA) is a natural phenolic compound with a wide range of bioactivities, but its tendency to degrade during food processing and storage limits its application in functional foods. Forming amylose-guest inclusion complex is a technique to molecularly encapsulate guest molecules of interest and protect them from adverse environmental challenges. However, CA cannot be encapsulated into the helical cavity of amylose so this study used a strategy of lipophilization of CA to synthesize hexadecyl p -coumarate (HC), which might complex with amylose. The formation of the amylose inclusion complex was studied by complementary techniques: differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. To test the photo-stability of CA in the complex, a direct UV irradiation was performed. The in vitro release behavior of CA in the complex was also studied in both simulated gastric and intestinal fluids. The results showed that HC, but not CA, could form inclusion complex with amylose. Compared with CA, HC, and amylose-HC physical mixture, HC complexed with amylose showed a significant improvement in photo-stability (P < 0.05), with 90% retained, double the 43% retention of CA after 72 h of direct UV irradiation, and exhibited higher release rates of CA during in vitro digestion. These findings suggest that the amylose inclusion complex is a promising technique to protect CA in foods during processing and storage and to increase its bioaccessibility. Graphical abstract Image 1083058 Highlights • The lipophilized form of p -coumaric acid formed inclusion complex with amylose. • Amylose inclusion complexation improved the photo-stability of p -coumaric acid. • The bioaccessibility of p -coumaric acid was enhanced by the encapsulation approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was to compare the characteristics of 21 starches isolated from chestnuts produced in different regions in China, also to investigate their potential food applications. Starches were isolated from chestnuts under the Castanea mollisima Blume variety with sub-varieties of Banli, Youli, and Maoli. Several properties of the starch samples were examined, including the moisture content, amylose content, morphological characteristics, color values, light transmittance, syneresis, swelling power, water solubility index, pasting properties, FTIR characteristics, X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, and thermal properties. The results showed that starches isolated from Youli presented higher resistance to shear and swelling during heating, indicating more suitability for high-heat cooking. The FTIR spectra confirmed the polysaccharide nature of all the chestnut starches. The XRD patterns showed most chestnut starches were in C b -type, while only five were in C a -type. Overall, this comparative study would be relevant for the further exploration of the potential utilization of chestnut starch in both food and non-food industries. • Physiochemical properties of 21 chestnuts starches were examined. • Starches presented significant differences in morphology, pasting, and thermal properties. • Starches from Maoli had generally smaller granule sizes. • Starches from Youli presented higher resistance to shear and thermal swelling. • All chestnuts had C-type starch, among which most starches were in C b -type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pasteurella multocida (P. multocida), a causative agent of fowl cholera, is an important pathogen in the poultry industry. In the present study, we found that the inactivated vaccine of P. multocida grown in an iron-restricted medium provided better protection than that grown in normal medium. Thus, we adopted a comparative proteomics approach, by using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE), coupled with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/TOF MS), to profile the supernatant proteins associated with P. multocida under both conditions. Eleven upregulated proteins were identified, including aspartate ammonia-lyase (AspA), diacylglycerol kinase (DgK), 30S ribosomal protein S6 (RpsF), and eight outer membrane proteins (OMPs). To further characterize the three novel supernatant proteins identified under iron-restricted conditions, the AspA, DgK and RpsF proteins were expressed and purified, and used as immunogens to vaccinate chickens. The results showed that AspA, DgK and RpsF proteins induced 80.0%, 66.7%, and 80.0% immunity, respectively. These data indicate that the three novel proteins identified in the supernatant of the culture media might play important roles in the survival of bacteria under iron-restricted conditions, and thus protect chickens against P. multocida. These findings also suggest that the proteins identified can be used as subunit vaccines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Electrospinning is a versatile technique to fabricate non-woven fiber mats with an average fiber diameter ranging from nanometers to micrometers. Fibers produced by electrospinning have potential application in numerous fields owing to their light weight, high surface area, and high porosity. In certain applications, anisotropic properties are desired, which may also improve mechanical strength. This study comprehensively documented the feasibility of directed fiber deposition in wet-electrospinning and offers an inexpensive setup for laboratory investigation. Aligned starch fiber mats were produced and the effects of three operational parameters, i.e., rotational speed, drum location, and coagulation bath composition, were evaluated. The alignment of starch fibers was affected by the ethanol concentration in the coagulation bath and drum rotational speed. Coherent fibers could be obtained in all trials except for the one at the lowest ethanol concentration (60% v/v) and highest rotational speed (500 rpm) when the drum was below the liquid. The tensile strength was influenced by the interaction of location and ethanol concentration, and that of rotational speed and ethanol concentration. This study set a promising example of making aligned biopolymer fiber mats and investigating fiber deposition in wet-electrospinning. Aligned starch fiber mats have potential applications in areas such as tissue engineering and as wound dressings. Graphical abstract Image 104 Highlights • A benchtop setup for making aligned wet-electrospun fiber mats was developed. • Effects of operational parameters in wet-electrospinning were evaluated. • The tensile strength of fiber mat increased with fiber alignment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Electrospinning has become an increasingly attractive technique to produce micro-to nano-scale fibers from bio-based polymers, including starch. Compared to their synthetic counterparts, fibers electrospun from bio-based polymers generally have inferior mechanical strength. In the present study, we aim to enhance the mechanical strength of electrospun starch-based fibers by using nanocellulose as a reinforcing filler and cationic starch as a binding agent. The potential ionic bonding between cationic starch and anionic nanocellulose, and the hydrogen bonding as well as macromolecular entanglement between the three components, are expected to improve the compatibility of polymers and the mechanical strength of their composite fibers. Rheological properties of nanocellulose, cationic starch, and their mixtures were studied to understand their conformation and interaction in DMSO dispersions. The rheological properties of the ternary systems were studied and correlated with their electrospinnability and the tensile strength of the composite fiber mats. Our results suggested that nanocellulose-cationic starch at its percolation concentration (≈2%, w/w, of starch) has the most profound influence on fiber strength, and CS:NC ratios of 1:2 and 1:1 created improved intermolecular ionic bonding for reinforcing the fiber structure. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Tensile strength of electrospun starch fiber mats increased using nanocellulose filler and cationic starch as a binding agent. • Rheological behavior of individual, binary, and ternary biopolymer blends was evaluated to guide electrospinning process. • NC CS at its percolation concentration (≈2%, w/w, of starch) had the most influence on electrospun fiber strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrospun starch fiber mats have many potential applications, but an improvement in their mechanical properties is required to realize them. In the present study, wet-electrospun starch fiber mats were subjected to post-drying conditioning at controlled equilibrium relative humidity and equilibration time. The weight-normalized ultimate tensile strength of starch fiber mats increased significantly with equilibration at relative humidity >0.75 after 28 days. Morphological observation and X-ray diffraction analysis excluded significant changes in fiber size or crystallinity, and thus we concluded that conglutination brought about by the plasticizing effect of water and observed microscopically was primarily responsible for this mechanical improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amylose is well known to form inclusion complexes with various small molecules including fatty acids. In this study, we prepared amylose inclusion complexes with stearic acid derived spin probes and demonstrated the electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy as an emerging tool for studying the microstructure and microenvironment of amylose-guest inclusion complex. Two spin probes, namely 5-doxyl-stearic acid (5-DSA) and 16-doxyl-stearic acid (16-DSA), were used as guest molecules in forming amylose-guest inclusion complexes. The molecular dynamics and local polarity of the spin probes and their interaction with amylose in physical mixtures and inclusion complexes were studied using EPR spectroscopy. Complexed guest spin probes could be released when the inclusion complex was dissolved dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and detected by EPR. Since the inclusion complex could not be dissolved in water, the motion of spin probes was restricted in hydrated samples shown by the powder-like slow spectra. Our findings also indicated that the individual association between amylose and the two DSA molecules in forming the inclusion complexes were different. A portion of 16-DSA molecules were not tightly immobilized in the amylose helical channel, but instead were loosely entrapped in the amorphous region of the semicrystalline V 6 -type amylose. Therefore, EPR spectroscopy provides valuable information on the molecular dynamics and microenvironment of guest molecules and their interaction with amylose in inclusion complex, and can be exploited as a useful tool to study amylose-guest inclusion complex and other host-guest systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formation of high amylose corn starch (HACS)-alkylresorcinol (AR) inclusion complexes was demonstrated using HACS and a crude AR extract from rye bran, and was confirmed by complementary characterization techniques. Inclusion complex was extracted using hot 2-propanol/water (3:1), and thirteen different AR homologs were identified in the 2-propanol/water extract. However, this extraction regime was insufficient to remove all guests from the inclusion complexes, but did result in annealing of the V-type crystallinity, yielding an endotherm with higher onset and peak temperatures and dissociation enthalpy. The remaining guest compounds were recovered by disruption of the inclusion complexes with DMSO followed by liquid-liquid extraction. A total of nine AR homologs were recovered and two saturated long alkyl chain AR homologs (C21:0 and C19:0) were obviously enriched in the complexes compared to the crude AR extract. The formation of HACS-AR inclusion complexes may have the potential to inhibit staling in baked goods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we report a novel composition based on amylose (or starch) inclusion complex with an amphiphilic material as an effective encapsulation platform technology to incorporate guests of interest. Specifically, the encapsulation of β-carotene in amylose-surfactant and amylose/starch-ascorbyl palmitate (AscP) inclusion complexes was investigated. Surfactants of different hydrophilicity/lipophilicity were selected to cover a broad range of HLB values. The formation of the inclusion complexes was characterized by X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry. The ability of amylose-surfactant system to encapsulate β-carotene was dependent on the HLB value of the surfactants, instead of their ability to induce inclusion complexation. The incorporation of β-carotene hindered amylose-surfactant inclusion complex formation, whereas no significant effect was observed on structural and thermal properties of starch-AscP inclusion complex in the presence of β-carotene. The X-ray diffraction pattern of amylose-AscP-β-carotene showed that β-carotene molecules did not crystallize into a separated phase and thus were suggested to be homogeneously immobilized within the polycrystalline amylose-AscP inclusion complexes. During a storage period of six weeks at 20 and 30 °C, the stability of β-carotene was improved by encapsulation in starch-AscP inclusion complexes compared with that in physical mixtures of the three components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, polarized infrared (IR) microspectroscopy was employed to characterize the macromolecular orientation in wet-spun and stretched κ-carrageenan fibers. The fibers were shown to be well oriented by X-ray diffraction, suggesting that the κ-carrageenan molecules were generally aligned along the fiber axis direction. Longitudinal fiber pieces of about 10 μm thick were obtained by focused ion beam (FIB) micromilling. The fiber pieces were examined by polarized IR in transmission mode. Several bands, including those characteristic of κ-carrageenan at 845 and 930 cm −1 , were polarization-dependent, demonstrating polarized IR as a useful tool to evaluate macromolecular orientation in carrageenan fibers. Band assignments were discussed by considering the general alignment of molecules and the polarization dependence of vibration modes, and our results agreed well with band assignments from previous reports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By screening 26 transition metals anchored pyrrole nitrogen doped carbon (pyrrole-type TM-NCs), Cr/Mn/Co-NCs have been found as outstanding single atom catalysts for CO 2 reduction reaction (CO 2 RR), which possess better or comparable CO 2 RR activity when compared with corresponding pyridine-type TM-NCs. [Display omitted] • Cr/Mn/Co-NCs produce HCOOH with low limiting potentials (−0.18 to − 0.10 V). • Cr/Mn/Co-NCs favor high-reduction degree products of CH 4 with applied potentials. • Pyrrole-type TM-NCs perform better or comparable CO 2 RR than that of pyridine-type TM-NCs. The electrochemical CO 2 reduction reaction (CO 2 RR) provides a potential to mitigate excessive carbon emission and achieve carbon neutrality eventually. Herein, 26 transition metal anchored pyrrole nitrogen doped carbon catalysts (TM-NCs) were proposed as high-performance single atom catalysts (SACs) for CO 2 RR via a multi-level screening. The results revealed that 23 out of the 26 TM-NCs possessed superior thermodynamic and electrochemical stability, and 11 TM-NCs exhibited preferred CO 2 RR selectivity over the side reactions. The reaction pathways of CO 2 RR to C1 products, including CO, HCOOH, CH 3 OH, and CH 4 , on TM-NCs were explored. Considering the activity and product selectivity along CO 2 RR, Cr/Mn/Co-NCs were screened out as outstanding SACs in CO 2 RR to HCOOH with low limiting potentials of − 0.18 to − 0.10 V, which surpassed most previously reported SACs. With the applied potentials over − 0.6 V, Cr/Mn/Co-NCs exhibited the advantages of yielding high-throughput reaction products of CH 4. The coordinated N -type analysis demonstrated that compared with pyridine-type TM-NCs, pyrrole-type TM-NCs possessed weaker binding strengths with intermediates but better or comparable CO 2 RR activity. The results of this work highlighted pyrrole-type Cr/Mn/Co-NCs as ideal SACs for CO 2 RR and uncovered the effect of coordinated N -type in TM-NCs on CO 2 RR performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene have commonly been applied as the sensitive layer of strain sensors. However, the buckling deformation of CNTs and the crack generation of graphene usually leads to an unsatisfactory strain sensing performance. In this work, we developed a universal strategy to prepare welded CNT–graphene hybrids with tunable compositions and a tunable bonding strength between components by the in situ reduction of CNT–graphene oxide (GO) hybrid by thermal annealing. The stiffness of the hybrid film could be tailored by both initial CNT/GO dosage and annealing temperature, through which its electromechanical behaviors could also be defined. The strain sensor based on the CNT–graphene hybrid could be applied to collect epidermal bio-signals by both capturing the faint skin deformation from wrist pulse and recording the large deformations from joint bending, which has great potential in health monitoring, motion sensing and human–machine interfacing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel C (carbene) ˆO bidentate ancillary ligand has been designed and synthesized through an imidazolium bromide with carboxylic acid as a N -heterocyclic carbene (NHC) precursor, and further successfully been coordinated to iridium center for the first time in this work. Accordingly, a NHC-based iridium(III) complex has been synthesized and characterized by chemical structural (NMR, mass, UPLC purity, single crystal structure), photophysical, theoretical calculation, electrochemical and electrochemiluminescent (ECL) properties. Most importantly, five alkyl amines have been selected as co-reactants for ECL generation of this novel ECL luminophores and the relationships between ECL intensity and the co-reactant have been investigate by experimental results and theoretical calculations, which would be very important to exploit novel excellent co-reactants for the emerging iridium-based ECL luminophores in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Easy and clean separation of starchy endosperm from bran during milling could have a significant contribution to the increased flour yield. Starch content and DMSO extractable content of bran were determined as the estimates for remnant endosperm content of bran for 61 and 100 soft red winter (SRW) wheat genotypes grown in 2013 and 2014, respectively. DMSO extractable content was found to be more reliable in the estimation of remnant endosperm content of bran than was starch content with better reproducibility. Flour yields of the 2013 and 2014 SRW wheat varieties tested ranged from 65.1 to 72.4% (w/w), and 63.6–73.9% (w/w), respectively. The remnant endosperm content of bran estimated using the DMSO extractable content ranged from 33.9 to 43.6% (w/w) and 35.4–47.4% (w/w) for the 2013 and 2014 crops, respectively. The remnant endosperm content was significantly related to flour yield with a correlation coefficient of r = −0.54 ( P < 0.001) from the 2014 crop, which was greater than that for any other grain characteristics including test weight, kernel hardness, and kernel weight. The degree of endosperm separation varied with different wheat varieties, different bran pieces and even different parts of the same piece of bran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel TiAl 3 /Al 2 O 3 composite coating was prepared on γ-TiAl alloy. The process included two steps: (1) TiAl 3 /Al 2 O 3 composite powders were prepared by high energy ball milling of pure Al and nano-TiO 2 powders, followed by a heat-treatment; (2) the as-prepared composite powders were deposited on γ-TiAl substrate by cold spray. The cyclic oxidation was conducted at 900 °C to test the performance of the composite coating. The results showed that the composite coating had good crack resistance and effectively decreased the oxidation rate of the substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel silicon-aluminizing diffusion coating was prepared on γ-TiAl alloy by cold sprayed Al-12Si alloy coating and subsequent heat treatment. The oxidation resistance of silicon-aluminizing diffusion coating was studied at 900 °C for 1000 h and 120 cycles. The results showed that the coating decreased the inward oxygen diffusion and thus improved the oxidation resistance of bare alloy effectively. The microstructure evolution of the diffusion coating was investigated. Possible mechanisms related to the oxidation and elements diffusion behavior were also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal chalcogenides are primarily used for thermoelectric applications due to their enormous potential to convert waste heat into valuable energy. Several studies focused on single or dual aliovalent doping techniques to enhance thermoelectric properties in semiconductor materials; however, these dopants enhance one property while deteriorating others due to the interdependency of these properties or may render the host material toxic. Therefore, a strategic doping approach is vital to harness the full potential of doping to improve the efficiency of thermoelectric generation while restoring the base material eco-friendly. Here, we report a well-designed counter-doped eco-friendly nanomaterial system (~70 nm) using both isovalent (cerium) and aliovalent (cobalt) in a Bi2Se3 system for enhancing energy conversion efficiency. Substituting cerium for bismuth simultaneously enhances the Seebeck coefficient and electrical conductivity via ionized impurity minimization. The boost in the average electronegativity offered by the self-doped transitional metal cobalt leads to an improvement in the degree of delocalization of the valence electrons. Hence, the new energy state around the Fermi energy serving as electron feed to the conduction band coherently improves the density of the state of conducting electrons. The resulting high power factor and low thermal conductivity contributed to the remarkable improvement in the figure of merit (zT = 0.55) at 473 K for an optimized doping concentration of 0.01 at. %. sample, and a significant nanoparticle size reduction from 400 nm to ~70 nm, making the highly performing materials in this study ( B i 2 − x C e x C o 2 x 3 S e 3 ) an excellent thermoelectric generator. The results presented here are higher than several Bi2Se3-based materials already reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigated the influence of heat treatment on the microstructure of Al-Si alloy coatings on γ-TiAl alloy. The coatings were prepared by cold spraying with Al-12Si and Al-20Si alloy powders as the feedstock, and then the as-sprayed coatings were subjected to heat treatment. The microstructure, chemical composition, and phase transformation of the coatings were studied by SEM, XRD, and EPMA. The diffusing behavior of Al and Si during heat treatment was investigated. The results showed that a silicon-aluminizing coating was formed through the inward diffusion of Al/Si elements into the substrate. The obtained kinetics curve of the formation of silicon-aluminizing coating at 580 °C similarly followed parabolic law. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twin parametric-margin support vector machine (TPMSVM) obtains a significant performance. However, its decision function loses the sparsity, which causes the prediction speed to be much slow. In this brief, we present an improved TPMSVM, named centroid-based twin parametric-margin support vector machine (CTPSVM). The significant advantage of CTPSVM over twin support vector machine (TWSVM) and TPMSVM is that its decision hyperplane is sparse by optimizing simultaneously the projection values of the centroid points of two classes on its pair of nonparallel hyperplanes. In addition, a learning algorithm based on the clipping strategy is proposed to solve the optimization problems. Experimental results show the effectiveness of our method in speed, sparsity and accuracy, and therefore confirm further the above conclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thermal barrier coatings investigated in this paper included a TiAl bond coat and a yttria partially stabilized zirconia (YSZ) layer. The TiAl bond coat was prepared by deposition of aluminum by cold spray, followed by a heat-treatment. The YSZ layer was prepared by air plasma spray. The isothermal and cyclic oxidation tests were conducted at 900 °C for 1000 h and 500 cycles to test the oxidation resistance of the thermal barrier coatings. The microstructure and composition of the γ-TiAl alloy with and without the thermal barrier coatings after oxidation were investigated. The results showed that a dense TGO layer about 5 μm had grown between the YSZ layer and the TiAl bond coat. The TGO had good adhesion to both the YSZ layer and the bond coat even after the TiAl bond coat entirely degraded into the TiAl phase, which decreased the inward oxygen diffusion. Thus, the thermal barrier coatings improved the oxidation resistance of γ-TiAl alloy effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, finite element simulations were performed to investigate the competition between bonding and rebounding when a Cu particle of 25 μm in diameter impinged Cu substrate. With the help of cohesive zone model, the trend of the minimal average bonding strength to suppress rebounding (MABSSR) was predicted as a function of initial velocity under certain conditions. Result shows, MABSSR has a nonlinear trend versus initial velocity under the conditions considered. If the real trend of MABSSR is similar to that observed, a hypothesis is presented to explain the critical deposition velocity. Finally, defects in the current work are discussed. Analysis shows the defects have no influence on predicting the overall trend of MABSSR in the current work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resistant starch (RS) is well known for its health beneficial effects for glycemic control and gut health. In addition to some commonly reported RS types, such as raw high amylose maize starch (HAMS), potato starch, retrograded starch, and cross-linked starch, formation of starch inclusion complexes could also contribute to an increase in RS content. In this study, V type starch inclusion complexes with two guest compounds, ascorbyl palmitate (AP) and palmitic acid (PA), were formed using the novel "empty" V type method, and hydrothermal treatments were performed to further enhance the RS contents. Complimentary X-ray diffraction (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) techniques were conducted to assess the crystalline structure and thermal properties of the raw and treated inclusion complexes, and simulated in vitro enzymatic digestion was performed to study the structure-digestibility relationship in the treated samples. Although the raw inclusion complex samples exhibited minimal RS contents, all the treatments retarded starch digestion by increasing RS or SDS levels. For both V 6h -AP and V 6h -PA inclusion complexes, annealing followed by long-term strong acid hydrolysis treatment (ANN-ACH) resulted in the greatest increase in RS content, followed by strong ACH treatments alone. In addition, while presenting a comparable RS level as traditional RS2, the ANN-ACH treated V 6h -AP inclusion complex retained a V type crystalline structure, indicating its great potential as a novel type of RS, i.e., RS5. The study findings could have practical implications for the design and modification of RS-containing food for the control and modulation of glycemic response. [Display omitted] • V 6h type inclusion complexes were formed with ascorbyl palmitate and palmitic acid. • V 6h -palmitic acid inclusion complex had higher thermal stability and crystallinity. • Raw starch inclusion complexes showed low resistance to digestion. • Hydrothermal treatments enhanced resistant starch levels in inclusion complexes. • Annealing followed by acid hydrolysis was most effective to retard starch digestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Electro-wet-spinning was used to fabricate continuous nonwoven microscale and nanoscale fibers from pullulan. We investigated the rheological properties of pullulan dispersions using DMSO:water mixtures as solvents with varying compositions. The relationship between electrospinnability and rheological properties were studied. In order to obtain well-formed pullulan fibers, the concentration of pullulan dispersion had to be 1.88–2.25 times the entanglement concentration, depending on DMSO:water ratio in the solvent. Shear viscosity was another important factor. The shear viscosities at 100 s−1 of electrospinnable pullulan dispersions fell into a range between 0.06 and 2.2 Pa s, regardless of solvent composition. Yet, there may still be other factors governing the fiber size as DMSO concentration changed. Pullulan fibers in the order of hundreds of nanometers to tens of microns were obtained. Increase in DMSO concentration in the solvent generally increased the fiber size and pore size in the electrospun pullulan fiber mat. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We have demonstrated a method of fabricating starch fibers with an average diameter in the order of micrometers. In the present study, the formation of starch-guest inclusion complexes in the electrospun starch fibers was evaluated. Two methods were used to electrospin starch fibers with starch-guest inclusion complexes: a dope mixing method, where guest material was mixed into the starch dispersion prior to electrospinning, and a bath mixing method, where guest material was mixed into the coagulation bath into which starch dispersions were electrospun. Three selected guest compounds, palmitic acid, ascorbyl palmitate, and cetyl-trimethylammonium bromide, formed inclusion complexes with starch in the electrospun starch fibers. The presence of native lipids was not necessary to induce the inclusion complex formation. Encapsulation of these molecules in electrospun starch fibers may increase their stability during processing and storage, while providing controlled release properties. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Many efforts to spin starch fibers are reported in the patent and research literature. All reported spinning methods are dependent upon addition of non-starch components, e.g. other polymers, plasticizers or cross-linkers. In the present study, we demonstrate a method of producing pure starch fibers by an electrospinning technique. This method involves choosing an appropriate solvent for native high amylose starch and spinning on a modified electrospinning setup. Resulting starch fibers have diameters in the order of microns. Coagulation solvent composition can affect the crystallinity of the starch fibers. Post-spinning treatments were employed to increase the crystallinity and cross-link the starch fibers. The novel starch fibers have potential in various applications, e.g. in the food, textile, and biomedical industries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The polymorphic structuresof starch were characterized with vibrationalsum frequency generation (SFG) spectroscopy. The noncentrosymmetryrequirement of SFG spectroscopy allows for the detection of the ordereddomains without spectral interferences from the amorphous phase andalso the distinction of the symmetric elements among crystalline polymorphs.The V-type amylose was SFG-inactive due to the antiparallel packingof single helices in crystal unit cells, whereas the A- and B-typestarches showed strong SFG peaks at 2904 cm–1and2952–2968 cm–1, which were assigned to CHstretching of the axial methine group in the ring and CH2stretching of the exocyclic CH2OH side group, respectively.The CH2/CH intensity ratios of the A- and B-type starchesare significantly different, indicating that the conformation of hydroxymethylgroups in these two polymorphs may be different. Cyclodextrin inclusioncomplexes were also analyzed as a comparison to the V-type amyloseand showed that the head-to-tail and head-to-head stacking patternsof cyclodextrin molecules govern their SFG signals and peak positions.Although the molecular packing is different between V-type amyloseand cyclodextrin inclusion complexes, both crystals show the annihilationof SFG signals when the functional group dipoles are arranged pointingin opposite directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface treatment of AISI 52100 steel by supersonic fine particles bombarding (SFPB) was studied in this article. The surface topography, morphology of the surface layer, and microhardness distribution of the surface layer have been investigated using a surface profiler system, a scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and a microvickers hardness tester. The microstructure, phase composition, and residual stress distribution of the surface layer in AISI 52100 steel after the SFBP treatment have been characterized by means of x-ray diffraction, SEM, and transmission electron microscopy. The results showed that a nanocrystalline surface (NS) layer was formed on the top surface of the SFBP-treated AISI 52100 steel samples. The NS layer is about 2 μm in thickness with a surface roughness of R = 1.2 μm, R = 6.7 μm, R = 6.0 μm. Phase transitions occurred in the surface of the SFBP-treated samples. Residual compressive stress is obtained at the surface of the SFBP-treated samples. The maximum value of compressive stress appears at the outermost of the surface, and the affection region of the whole surface is about 60 μm in thickness. A hardened surface layer has been fabricated in the AISI 52100 steel. The thickness of the hardened surface layer is about 70 μm. The maximum value of hardness occurs at the depth of 20 μm from the outermost surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The diameter of the starch fibers produced by electrospinning is a key parameter for most potential applications. In this study, a quantitative relationship between fiber diameter and certain electrospinning parameters, i.e. starch concentration, applied voltage, spinning distance and feed rate, was established by empirical modeling using a fractional factorial experimental design in a constrained region. Response surface methodology was employed to analyze the interactions of the electrospinning parameters and predict the direction to minimize and maximize the fiber diameters. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Taking advantage of the gelation process of κ-carrageenan, we have developed a wet-spinning process to fabricate micro-scale fibers from κ-carrageenan. Effects of three important spinning parameters, i.e. coagulation bath composition, spinning rate and post-spinning mechanical drawing, on fiber morphological and tensile properties have been discussed. In the present report, we studied the addition of ι-carrageenan on thermal and rheological properties of the bicomponent gels and the fibers spun from them. It was found that κ- and ι-carrageenan underwent phase separation in the bicomponent gel. Upon addition of ι-carrageenan, the diameter and compliance of the blend fiber was increased. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We have demonstrated a method of fabricating pure starchfiberswith an average diameter in the order of micrometers. In the presentstudy, correlation between the rheological properties of starch dispersionsand the electrospinnability was attempted via the extrapolation ofthe critical entanglement concentration, which is the boundary betweenthe semidilute unentangled regime and the semidilute entangled regime.Dispersions of high amylose starch containing nominally 80% amylose(Gelose 80) required 1.2–2.7 times the entanglement concentrationfor effective electrospinning. Besides starch concentration, molecularconformation, and shear viscosity were also of importance in determiningthe electrospinnability. The rheological properties and electrospinnabilityof different starches were studied. Hylon VII and Hylon V starches,containing nominally 70 and 50% amylose, respectively, required concentrationsof 1.9 and 3.7 times their entanglement concentrations for electrospinning.Only poor fibers were obtained from mung bean starch, which containsabout 35% amylose, while starches with even lower amylose contentscould not be electrospun. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study demonstrates the fabrication of κ-carrageenan fibers by a wet-spinning method and discusses three important spinning parameters: coagulation bath composition, spinning rate and post-spinning mechanical drawing. The as-spun fiber diameter decreased with KCl and ethanol concentration in the coagulation bath. In general, the ultimate tensile stress and elongation at break both increased for KCl concentration from 0.1 to 0.5 M with and without ethanol, with no significant change above 0.5 M. Spinning rate affected the dope flow and thus the polymer orientation (apparent viscosity) and fiber morphology. At spinning rates between 0.25 mL/min and 0.33 mL/min, the fiber diameter reached a minimum and the fiber surface was smooth. Both an increase and decrease from this spinning rate range increased the fiber diameter and roughness of the fiber surface. Post-spinning drawing of the fiber resulted in even smaller fiber diameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The TiAl3–Al composite coating on orthorhombic Ti2AlNb based alloy was prepared by cold spray. Oxidation in air at 950°C indicated that the bare alloy exhibited poor oxidation resistance due to the formation of TiO2/AlNbO4 mixture and intended to scale off at the TiO2 rich zone. A nitride layer about 2µm was formed under the oxide layer. The oxygen invaded deeply into the alloy and caused severe microhardness enhancement in the near surface region. The TiAl3–Al composite coating exhibited parabolic oxidation kinetics and showed no sign of degradation after oxidized up to 1098h at 950°C in air under quasi-isothermal condition. No scaling of the coating was observed after oxidized at 950°C up to the tested 150 cycles. The major oxide in the oxidized coating was Al2O3. The AlTi2N, TiAl and small amount of TiO2 were also observed in the oxidized coating. The EPMA and microhardness tests showed that inward oxygen diffusion was prevented by the interlayer, which was formed between the composite coating and the substrate during heat-treatment. Microstructure analyses demonstrated that the interlayer play a major role in protecting the substrate alloy from high temperature oxidation and interstitial embrittlement. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Since starch is the major energy source of the human diet, retarding starch digestion could serve as an effective way for modulating glycemic response and for the prevention and treatment of obesity. In this study, a dietary bioactive compound, ascorbyl palmitate (AP), was evaluated as a potential inhibitor in the digestion of raw, cooked, and retrograded high amylose maize starch (HAMS) and potato starch (PS). The inhibitory effect of AP was compared with that of palmitic acid (PA), without the ascorbyl group. In addition, HAMS inclusion complexes with AP and PA were formed and treated by annealing (ANN), acid hydrolysis (ACH), and the combination of both. Upon the addition of AP, the resistant starch (RS) contents in raw, cooked, and retrograded starches were increased significantly, indicating the inhibitory effect of AP against starch digestion. Although both HAMS-AP and HAMS-PA inclusion complexes exhibited minimal RS contents, all the hydrothermal treatments enhanced the RS contents in both inclusion complexes, marking their potential to serve as a new type of RS, i.e., RS5. Among the treatments, ANN followed by ACH (ANN-ACH) was most effective to retard starch digestion by increasing RS contents. The study findings could have practical implications in designing functional starch-based ingredients and increasing their nutritional value. [Display omitted] • Ascorbyl palmitate inhibited the digestion of raw, cooked, and retrograded starches. • Palmitic acid could not alter the digestibility profiles of starches. • Raw starch inclusion complexes showed low resistance to digestion. • Hydrothermal treatments enhanced resistant starch levels in inclusion complexes. • Annealing followed by acid hydrolysis was most effective to retard starch digestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium silicalite (TS-1) is used as catalyst in selective oxidation of thiophene by hydrogen peroxide at 333 K. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and UV–vis characterization shows the presence of framework titanium in all TS-1 samples we prepared with different SiO2/TiO2 ratio. Catalytic test over these catalysts confirms that framework Ti species does influence the oxidation of thiophene. The role of non-framework titanium was discussed by studying acid treating of the catalyst. If TS-1 is treated using HCl (2 mol/l) four times, part of the non-framework titanium species will be washed off and the activity of the catalyst increases greatly. These results suggest that framework titanium was crucial for thiophene oxidation. Non-framework titanium is not the active site, but provides steric hindrance for this reaction. Obvious diffusive restriction on the thiophene oxidation was also observed when using TS-1 with different crystal size. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

An organic–inorganic hybrid polyoxometalate (POM) CoPMoV [PMoVI8VIV4VV2O42][Co(Phen)2(H2O)]2[TEA]2•H3O•3H2O (Phen = 1,10-phenanthroline, TEA = triethylamine) prepared by hydrothermal synthesis was explored as a heterogeneous catalysts to remove methylene blue (MB) through Fenton-like reaction and catalytic reduction. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were employed to characterize CoPMoV. The MB removal rates for the Fenton-like reaction and the catalytic reduction were 91.6% (120 min) and 97.5% (2 min), respectively, under optimum conditions. CoPMoV demonstrated excellent stability and recyclability in the Fenton-like reaction and catalytic reduction, which was confirmed by 5 cycle tests. Plausible mechanisms for MB degradation and reduction have also been proposed. Benefiting from the excellent redox properties of cobalt and [PMoVI8VIV4VV2O42]5− anion, CoPMoV could act as a Fenton-like and reductive catalyst for the removal of MB. This study provides a green and facile strategy to design POM-based organic–inorganic material for dye wastewater treatment via oxidation and reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Starch-based nanofibers successfully electrospun from aqueous dispersions • Addition of pullulan aided in electrospinning of octenylsuccinylated (OS) starch • Electrospinnability of OS starches dictated mainly by rheological properties • Spinnability map of OS starch and pullulan established We aimed to develop a greener process for dry-electrospinning food-grade modified starch through the elimination of organic solvents. The rheological properties and electrospinnability of aqueous dispersions of commercial octenylsuccinylated (OS) starches with various molecular weight (Mw) were investigated, yet only nanofibers with beads or defects could be obtained from OS starch with the highest Mw, i.e., Purity Gum@ Ultra (PGU). Further improvement in the fiber morphology was achieved by adding pullulan (PUL) as a minor component in the spinning dope. Smooth, continuous, and bead-free nanofibers (147-250 nm) were obtained from the PGU-PUL dispersions. Shown on an electrospinnability map, the successful electrospinning of 12%, 15%, and 20% (w/v) aqueous PGU dispersions required a minimum addition of 6%, 5%, and 3% (w/v) of PUL, respectively. The addition of PUL contributed to establishing sufficient molecular entanglement for electrospinning. This study provides a promising green process to produce starch-based nanofibers for use in various applications, e.g., drug delivery, wound dressing, and tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amylose-guest inclusion complexes are a type of supramolecular host-guest assembly that can provide protection for and controlled release of guest molecules. The successful and efficient complexation between amylose and guest molecules is governed by factors including: guest structure and chemistry, and process method and parameters. Here we investigated the formation, crystalline structure, and thermal stability of amylose inclusion complexes with a total of ten guest molecules differing in alkyl chain length (C10 and C16), molecular shape (linear vs. branched), and functional groups (alcohol, aldehyde, carboxylic acid, and ester). Their ability to complex with amylose was evaluated using two complexation methods (partitioning from water after heating and partitioning from a DMSO/water solution), and two annealing temperatures (60 and 90 °C). The extent of complexation differed for the two methods, likely due to guest solubility and partitioning behavior in the respective solvent systems. Annealing temperature created inclusion complexes of different structure and dissociation temperature using the water approach. Here we suggest that the so-called "Form I" and "Form II" V-type amylose inclusion complexes differ in their crystal size, crystallinity and arrangement of guest molecules in the helical cavity, rather than being amorphous or crystalline as previously reported. Chain length, molecular shape, and functional groups affected the thermal stability of the inclusion complexes. Shorter chain length, unsaturation, and short branched chains formed inclusion complexes with lower dissociation temperatures. We propose the Form II as a tail-to-tail arrangement of molecules in the helices that leaves the functional groups at the helical openings. Guest compounds that either failed to form complexes from water or formed poor complexes were able to form inclusion complexes with amylose using the DMSO approach, suggesting solubility of the guest, flexibility of the amylose chain, or the partitioning of the guest between the solvent and the helix core affected complexation. Image 1 • Most linear compounds formed inclusion complexes with amylose. • Annealing at higher temperature resulted in Form II complexes. • Form II complex showed higher stability and larger crystals. • Different complexation methods are best suited for different guest compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Preparation of hierarchically flower-like hollow COF(HFH-COF) for drug delivery systems. • Optimizing the preparation method of HFH-COF by response surface methodology. • HFH-COF has good drug loading capacity and excellent controlled release ability. • In vitro experiments were conducted to detect the cytotoxicity of HFH-COF and demonstrate fine biocompatibility. Drug delivery system has became a research hotspot due to its excellent targeting ability and drug-controlled releases. Herein, a hierarchically flower-like hollow COF (HFH-COF) is synthesized via a simple one-step reaction method at room temperature. The as-prepared HFH-COF has high specific surface area, uniform pore size and pH sensitivity. Based on drug loading experiments using Adriamycin (DOX) as a model molecule, HFH-COF exhibits high drug loading capabilities. The drug release curves under different pH conditions show that HFH-COF is pH sensitive. In vitro cell experiments further confirmed that HFH-COF has good biocompatibility. DOX can be effectively released from HFH-COF to kill tumor cells. The as-prepared HFH-COF drug-loading system has exceptional drug loading ability, excellent biocompatibility, pH sensitivity of the tumor microenvironment, as well as good the potential application prospects in tumor treatment. Overall, a new COF-based drug delivery systems have been developed, and COFs are expanding the field of drug carriers as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lutein is essential for infant visual and cognitive development but has low stability and solubility. This study aimed to enhance the stability and bioaccessibility of lutein using oil-in-water emulsions stabilized with biopolymers. Commercially available octenylsuccinylated (OS) starches, including capsule TA® (CTA), HI-CAP®100 (HC), and Purity Gum® 2000 (PG), along with gum Arabic (GA) variants Ticaloid acacia Max® (TAM), TICAmulsion® 3020 (TM), and pre-hydrate gum Arabic (PHGA), were chosen as emulsifiers. By screening the effect of biopolymer concentration and oil volume fraction (Φ), emulsions stabilized with CTA, HC, or TM at 20% and 30% (w / v) concentration and 70% Φ exhibited a gel-like structure and were selected for further assessments. After a week at 25 °C, emulsions stabilized by CTA and HC showed no significant change in droplet size, while TM emulsion exhibited a 1.58-fold increase. At 45 °C, all emulsions exhibited increase in droplet size. Lutein retention is higher in CTA emulsions at both storage temperatures than free lutein. In vitro bioaccessibility of all lutein emulsions was higher than that of free lutein. These findings highlight the superior stability and bioaccessibility of the lutein emulsion stabilized by OS starch, positioning it as a promising carrier to broaden lutein applications in infant foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Off-flavors have garnered significant attention in research due to their impact on overall flavor, which leads consumers to avoid purchasing or consuming food products with off-flavors, even if they offer health benefits. However, there has been limited research on encapsulating off-flavor compounds as a means to mask them and to improve the flavor profiles of food products. Starch, particularly its amylose component, is well-known for its ability to form inclusion complexes (ICs) with various small molecules, providing protection and controlled release of these encapsulated guest molecules. The complexation interaction between starch and guest compounds is influenced by factors such as the structure and chemistry of the guest, as well as the process method and parameters. In the present study, nine different beany off-flavor compounds, including hexanal (HAL), 3-hexanol (HOL), benzaldehyde (BAL), 1-octen-3-ol (OOL), 1-octen-3-one (ONE), 2-pentylfuran (PTF), trans -2-nonenal (NAL), trans, trans -2,4-nonadienal (NAD), and trans, trans -2,4-decadienal (DEC) were used as model off-flavors to examine their complexation ability with three types of preformed "empty" V-type high amylose maize starches (HAMS), namely V 6h , V 7 , and V 8. The successful formation of inclusion complexes was characterized using complementary techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results revealed that the complexation of off-flavor compounds with the starches did not significantly alter the original structures of the starches. Additionally, the IC samples prepared using the gas phase (GP) approach exhibited significantly higher encapsulation efficiency compared to the direct contact (DC) approach, as indicated by GC-MS analysis. Among the V-type starches, V 6h HAMS demonstrated the highest complexation efficiency for all selected beany off-flavor compounds when the ICs were prepared using the GP approach. This study suggests that both V 6h and V 8 starches exhibit effective scavenging abilities for beany off-flavor compounds. Further, complexation properties depend on the properties of the off-flavor compounds, the type of V starch used, and the IC preparation approach. [Display omitted] • Scavenging beany off-flavor compounds by preformed "empty" V-type starch. • Starch structure not significantly altered upon complexation. • Guest structure influenced scavenging efficiency, especially in direct contact approach. • V 6h -type starch has shown as the most effective through gas phase approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a global public health issue with an increasing prevalence, obesity is related to several metabolic disorders, but is largely preventable. Resistant starch (RS), the indigestible portion of starch, has been studied for its potential effects on reducing obesity. This systematic review aimed to investigate the effect of dietary intake of RS on obesity development and related metabolic profiles in human, including body weight and composition, energy intake and satiety, lipid profiles, blood glucose and insulin, and other blood biomarkers. Eleven peer-reviewed articles published in English between 2000 and 2019 were identified after screening using CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and CINAHL Plus. Based on the results, RS intake had no direct effect on body weight and body composition. Evidence for its effect on reducing energy intake and increasing satiety, as well as improving lipid profiles was inconsistent. Beneficial effects of RS intake on several blood biomarkers were supported, indicating its regulatory roles in blood glucose homeostasis, insulin sensitivity, and gut hormone concentrations. Specifically, five out of the eight articles measuring blood glucose reported a decrease in either fasting or postprandial glucose levels; two out of the three articles measuring insulin sensitivity indicated a significant improvement after RS supplementation; studies measuring gut hormone concentrations including glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), and peptide YY (PYY) also showed significant improvements after RS interventions. In conclusion, the effect of dietary intake of RS on obesity and its related metabolic complications was not conclusive. Further research with larger sample sizes and longer duration is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The 70-gene signature (70-GS, MammaPrint) test has been recommended by the main guidelines to evaluate prognosis and chemotherapy benefit of hormonal receptor positive human epidermal receptor 2 negative (HR + /Her2−) early breast cancer (BC). However, this expensive assay is not always accessible and affordable worldwide. Based on our previous study, we established nomogram models to predict the binary and quartile categorized risk of 70-GS. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed a consecutive cohort of 150 female patients with HR + /Her2− BC and eligible 70-GS test. Comparison of 40 parameters including the patients' medical history risk factors, imaging features and clinicopathological characteristics was performed between patients with high risk (N = 62) and low risk (N = 88) of 70-GS test, whereas risk calculations from established models including Clinical Treatment Score Post-5 years (CTS5), Immunohistochemistry 3 (IHC3) and Nottingham Prognostic Index (NPI) were also compared between high vs low binary risk of 70-GS and among ultra-high (N = 12), high (N = 50), low (N = 65) and ultra-low (N = 23) quartile categorized risk of 70-GS. The data of 150 patients were randomly split by 4:1 ratio with training set of 120 patients and testing set 30 patients. Univariate analyses and multivariate logistic regression were performed to establish the two nomogram models to predict the the binary and quartile categorized risk of 70-GS. Results: Compared to 70-GS low-risk patients, the high-risk patients had significantly less cardiovascular co-morbidity (p = 0.034), more grade 3 BC (p = 0.006), lower progesterone receptor (PR) positive percentage (p = 0.007), more Ki67 high BC (≥ 20%, p < 0.001) and no significant differences in all the imaging parameters of ultrasound and mammogram. The IHC3 risk and the NPI calculated score significantly correlated with both the binary and quartile categorized 70-GS risk classifications (both p < 0.001). The area under curve (AUC) of receiver-operating curve (ROC) of nomogram for binary risk prediction were 0.826 (C-index 0.903, 0.799–1.000) for training and 0.737 (C-index 0.785, 0.700–0.870) for validation dataset respectively. The AUC of ROC of nomogram for quartile risk prediction was 0.870 (C-index 0.854, 0.746–0.962) for training and 0.592 (C-index 0.769, 0.703–0.835) for testing set. The prediction accuracy of the nomogram for quartile categorized risk groups were 55.0% (likelihood ratio tests, p < 0.001) and 53.3% (p = 0.04) for training and validation, which more than double the baseline probability of 25%. Conclusions: To our knowledge, we are the first to establish easy-to-use nomograms to predict the individualized binary (high vs low) and the quartile categorized (ultra-high, high, low and ultra-low) risk classification of 70-GS test with fair performance, which might provide information for treatment choice for those who have no access to the 70-GS testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]