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PURPOSE: Optical development of the zebrafish eye relies on the movement of the highly refractive lens nucleus from an anterior to a central location in the optical axis during development. We have shown that this mechanism in turn depends on the function of Aquaporin 0a (Aqp0a), a multifunctional and extremely abundant protein in lens fiber cell membranes. Here, we probe the specific cellular functions necessary for rescuing lens nucleus centralization defects in aqp0a-/- null mutants by stable overexpression of an Aqp0 orthologue from a killifish, MIPfun. METHODS: We test in vivo requirements for lens transparency and nucleus centralization of MIPfun for auto-adhesion, water permeability (Pf), and Pf sensitivity to regulation by Ca2+ or pH by overexpression of MIPfun mutants previously shown to have defects in these functions in vitro or in silico. RESULTS: Water permeability of MIPfun is essential for rescuing lens transparency and nucleus centralization defects, whereas auto-adhesion is not. Furthermore, water permeability regulation by Ca2+ and pH appear residue-dependent, because some Ca2+-insensitive mutants fail to rescue, and pH-insensitive mutants only partially rescue defects. MIPfun lacking Pf sensitivity to both, Ca2+ and pH, also fails to rescue lens nucleus centralization. CONCLUSION: This study shows that regulation of water permeability by Aqp0 plays a key role in the centralization of the zebrafish lens nucleus, providing the first direct evidence for water transport in this aspect of optical development.

In order to predict the mechanical behavior of particle reinforced polymer composites, it is crucial to study changes in polymer phase distribution upon interaction with the load in the undeformed state. In this work, HDPE composites reinforced with pyrolytic carbon black (rCBNF) particles, including some rCB modified by mild air oxidation (rCBF), which enabled the aggregation of residual chemisorbed rubber at the surface, examined in a previous work. The development of lamellar morphology induces conformational behaviors resulting from interactions fillers/polymer chains. These interactions cannot be determined by DSC alone but involve short‐range FTIR and Raman and long‐range XRD models. The Raman crystalline content of HDPE was significantly reduced by the presence rCBFs and N330, which varied with lamellar morphology. This process involves the displacement of crystalline lamellae into sublayers by nucleation and crystal growth, resulting in the release of linker molecules, limiting entanglement and improving the elastic properties of the amorphous phase. A significant amount of amorphous phase was produced with N330 and oxidized rCBFs, in which the carbon surface was free of residual rubber. Mechanical tensile tests showed an improvement in the elastic modulus of composites containing these fillers. Highlights: N330 and oxidized rCBFs have surface free of the residual rubber contained in rCBNF.Significant reduction in the Raman crystallinity of HDPE with rCBF and N330.Reduction varies with lamellar size through nucleation and crystal growth.Strong release of the tie molecule improves the elastic modulus of HDPE/rCBF.Improved mechanical tensile properties of HDPE/rCBF and HDPE/N330. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work reports the green synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) using white ash gourd fruit juice. The synthesized NPs have been characterized by various spectroscopic techniques like UV-Visible, FT-IR, Powder XRD and FE-SEM. These NPs display a prominent absorbance at 357 nm in UV-Visible spectra. X-ray diffraction studies confirm the formation of crystalline ZnO NPs with the wurtzite phase. The average particle size (D) of the synthesized ZnO NPs is found to be 40.48 nm. FE-SEM images reveal that synthesized ZnO NPs have nano-flaky structures. The prepared ZnO NPs have achieved 99% photodegradation efficiency against MB dye in 90 min of irradiation of UV light. These synthesized NPs have also been examined for three biological activities: Antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-diabetic. Antimicrobial activity has been found to be good to moderate. The synthesized ZnO NPs show excellent anti-diabetic activity (α-amylase activity) compared to standard with IC50 value equal to 1.21 µg/mL. For α-glucosidase, green synthesized ZnO NPs (IC50 value 0.23 µg/mL) exhibit excellent inhibition activity compared to standard Acarbose (IC50 value 0.24 µg/mL). ZnO NPs show better antioxidant capability as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We obtain existence of minimizers for the p-capacity functional defined with respect to a centrally symmetric anisotropy for 1 < p < ∞ , including the case of a crystalline norm in ℝ N . The result is obtained by a characterization of the corresponding subdifferential and it applies to unbounded domains of the form ℝ N ∖ Ω ¯ under mild regularity assumptions (Lipschitz-continuous boundary) and no convexity requirements on the bounded domain Ω. If we further assume an interior ball condition (where the Wulff shape plays the role of a ball), then any minimizer is shown to be Lipschitz continuous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Ozurdex® is a dexamethasone intravitreal implant approved for the treatment of macular edema secondary to branch or central retinal vein occlusion, non-infectious uveitis affecting the posterior segment of the eye, and diabetic macular edema. Patients and Methods: We report a case of an accidental injection of the implant into the crystalline lens, successfully managed by surgery afterwards. The case description is supported by Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography (AS-OCT) images. Results: A 69-year-old male was observed for bilateral diabetic macular edema. He had previously been treated with bevacizumab and aflibercept, with an incomplete anatomical response (< 20% reduction in central macular thickness). The patient consented to undergo a bilateral intravitreal dexamethasone injection (dexamethasone intravitreal implant (0.7 mg)). The procedures were uneventful, except for an extensive conjunctival hemorrhage in the right eye. An appointment was scheduled for fifteen days later, however the patient missed it. Four months later, he referred OD vision loss, which occurred a few days after the injection, and the implant was found within the right crystalline lens. An AS-OCT was done to better understand the implant's location and entry point. Due to decreased visual acuity, the patient was scheduled for surgery. A phacoemulsification surgery with a three-piece hydrophobic intraocular lens implantation in the sulcus associated with anterior vitrectomy was done. Conclusion: The injection of a dexamethasone implant is becoming increasingly common. Nonetheless, it must always be carried out carefully, to avoid complications. If the implant is accidentally injected into the crystalline lens, the AS-OCT can help determine its exact location, which is important for preparing the surgical plan and determining the appropriate timing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article elucidates the dissolution of cellulose from different raw materials in NaOH aqueous solution via the combination of synchrotron-radiation-based SAXS/WAXS characterization. The X-ray measurements probed the mesostructure of the cellulose samples during the freeze-thawing cycle allowing tracking the initial swelling of the structure, the kinetics of disintegration of the cellulose crystallites as well as controlling the final state of the cellulose solution, i.e. presence or absence of cellulose aggregates. The individual SAXS and WAXS measurements were fitted and modelled to enable visualisation and tracking of the changes in the structure in relation to temperature during cooling and warming phases. To further increase the understanding of the parameters affecting dissolution different cellulose samples and solution compositions were considered. For this purpose the effect of increasing the concentration of NaOH and adding Zn2+ has been carefully investigated as well as the importance of the cellulose origin. We found consistent development that the dissolution occurs faster at higher concentrations of NaOH and with Zn2+ regardless the origin. Nevertheless, SAXS data show that materials with a larger amount of cellulose I show more apparent swelling in mesoscopic structure than bleached agricultural containing cellulose II. Despite few crystalline residues after the complete cooling-heating cycle shown by WAXS, some cellulose was not completely dissolved as some network structure remained in the samples under the test condition as suggested by SAXS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Ordered cellular architecture and high concentrations of stable crystallins are required for the lens to maintain transparency. Here we investigate the molecular mechanism of cataractogenesis of the CRYGC c.119-123dupGCGGC (p.Cys42AlafsX63) (CRYGC5bpdup) mutation. Lenses were extracted from wild type and transgenic mice carrying the CRYGC5bpdup minigene and RNA was isolated and converted into cDNA. Expression of genes in the unfolded protein response (UPR) pathways was estimated by qRT-PCR and RNA seq and pathway analysis was carried out using the Qiagen IPA website. Postnatal 3 weeks (P3W) Transgenic mice exhibited phenotypic diversity with a dimorphic population of severe and clear lenses. PCA of RNA seq data showed separate clustering of wild-type, clear CRYGC5bpdup, and severe CRYGC5bpdup lenses. Transgenic mice showed differential upregulation in Master regulator Grp78 (Hspa5) and downstream targets in the PERK-dependent UPR pathway including Atf4 and Chop (Ddit3), but not GADD34 (Ppp1r15a). Thus, high levels of CRYGC5bpdup transgene expression in severely affected lenses induces UPRer and UPRmt stress responses primarily through the PERK-dependent and Atf4/Atf5/Ddit3 pathways respectively, inducing autophagy and apoptosis and thence congenital nuclear cataracts. This effect is correlated to CRYGC5bpdup transgene expression, offering insight into cataract pathogenic pathways and recapitulating the variation in cataract severity in humans.

Abstract The preparation of metallic nanoparticles (NPs) using the green method is rapid, eco-friendly, and easily scaled up at room temperature and pressure. In the current study, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were prepared utilizing leaf extract from Mallotus philippinensis, employing two distinct precursors of zinc oxide: zinc acetate and zinc nitrate. The antioxidant and antibacterial properties of the synthesized nanoparticles were also evaluated. The synthesis of ZnO NPs was preliminary monitored by UV–visible analysis. The biosynthesized nanoparticles were further characterized using a variety of techniques, such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy. XRD peaks showed that nanoparticles synthesized from both zinc precursors exhibit crystalline properties, having wurtzite hexagonal shapes. The TEM analysis indicates that the average crystallite size was determined to be 21 nm and 28 nm for zinc nitrate and zinc acetate as precursor. FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of polyphenolic compounds on the surface of the nanoparticles, which likely acted as reducing and capping agents during ZnO NP synthesis. The antioxidant activity of M. philippinensis-mediated ZnO NPs was assessed in vitro. ZnO NPs synthesized using zinc nitrate exhibited higher antioxidant potential (IC50 = 65.31 µg/ml) compared to those synthesized using zinc acetate (IC50 = 66.87 µg/ml). Furthermore, the ZnO NPs demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae). The highest antibacterial activity was observed against S. pneumoniae, with a zone of inhibition of 14.97 ± 0.38 mm for ZnO NPs synthesized using zinc nitrate. These findings suggest that M. philippinensis leaf extract is an effective reducing and capping agent for the biosynthesis of ZnO NPs. The resulting nanoparticles exhibit potent antioxidant and antibacterial properties, highlighting their potential applications in biomedical and environmental fields.

PURPOSE: Contact lens wear induces corneal parainflammation involving increased immune cell numbers after 24 hours (CD11c+, Lyz2+, γδ-T cells) and six days (Ly6G+ cells) wear. We investigated the time course of onset and resolution of these responses. METHODS: LysMcre or C57BL/6J mice were fitted with a contact lens (four to 48 hours). Contralateral eyes did not wear lenses. After lens removal, Lyz2+, MHC-II+ or Ly6G+ cells were examined by quantitative imaging. RT-qPCR determined cytokine gene expression. RESULTS: Lens wear for 24 hours increased corneal Lyz2+ cells versus contralateral eyes approximately two-fold. Corneas remained free of visible pathology. The Lyz2+ response was not observed after four or 12 hours wear, nor after 12 hours wear plus 12 hours no wear. Lens removal after 24 hours wear further increased Lyz2+ cells (∼48% after one day), which persisted for four days, returning to baseline by seven days. Lyz2+ cells in contralateral eyes remained at baseline. MHC-II+ cells showed a similar response but without increasing after lens removal. Lens wear for 48 hours showed reduced Lyz2+ cells versus 24 hours wear with one day discontinuation, correlating with reduced IL-1β and IL-18 gene expression. Lens wear for 24 hours did not induce Ly6G+ responses six days after removal. CONCLUSIONS: Lens-induced corneal parainflammation involving Lyz2+ cells requires 24 hours wear but persists after lens discontinuation, requiring seven days for reversal. Lens wear for 48 hours may suppress initial Lyz2+ cell and cytokine responses. The significance of parainflammation during and after lens wear remains to be determined.

This research is part of a continuing effort to synthesize copper and zinc arsenates(III) to use as a zinc dust activator in zinc sulphate solution purification. In this paper, the feasibility of synthesizing crystalline, mono-phase zinc and copper arsenates(III) were investigated. Copper and zinc arsenates(III) were prepared by adding their sulphate solutions into arsenious solution obtained by dissolving As2O3 in NaOH aqueous solution. The structure and crystal lattice of the products and amount of the elements in precipitations were characterized by X-ray diffraction(XRD) and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry(AAS), respectively. Based on the results of XRD in the conditions of NaOH concentration = 1 mol/L, n(OH–)/n(As) = 1:1, n(Cu)/n(As) = 1:2, reaction temperature 90°C and reaction time 8h, a mono-phase crystalline copper arsenate(III) with the chemical composition of Cu(AsO2)2 and tetragonal crystal lattice was synthesized. In these conditions, the yields of arsenic and copper precipitation from the solution were 93.81% and 97.68%, respectively. Based on the XRD results in the conditions of NaOH concentration = 1 L, n(OH–)/n(As) = 1:1, n(Zn)/n(As) = 1:2, reaction temperature 80°C, reaction time 2h and washing pH = 6, a mono-phase crystalline zinc arsenate (III) with the chemical composition of Zn(AsO2)2 and monoclinic crystal lattice was synthesized. In these conditions, the yields of arsenic and zinc extraction from the solution were 77.70% and 46.37%, respectively.

Recent experimental studies highlighted the potential of thin-film crystalline silicon (Si) for high-efficiency solar cells. Using density functional theory, we investigated 2D Si thin films across various orientations, thicknesses, and surface structures to elucidate their structure–property relationships. Through surface-energy calculations and Wulff construction, we determined the crystal habit of Si, which aligns with available experimental observations. Electronic-structure calculations underscored the critical role of valence saturation on surfaces in enabling semiconducting behavior in Si thin films, essential for optical applications. From optical-absorption calculations, we identified the surface index exhibiting the highest absorption coefficients for thin films Si solar cell applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crystalline host matrix (CHM)‐nanoaggregates (NA) structure combines the advantages of a crystalline host matrix and high‐performance luminescent materials. This structure emerges as a highly effective strategy for achieving efficient blue organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). This approach can tackle the current challenge of achieving low voltage and high brightness in amorphous OLEDs. In this work, triplet‐triplet annihilation (TTA) material NA are embedded into CHM and sensitize the fluorescent dopant (D) BD1. As a result, a CHM‐TTANA‐D structure device is created, demonstrating an outstanding external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 8.46%. Notably, the efficiency roll‐off is mitigated. The device maintains an EQE of ≈7.50% at 1000 cd m−2, which is the highest values among blue crystalline OLEDs. The device leverages the benefits of CHM and exhibits swift turn‐on and a rapid increase in brightness and current density. This leads to a significant improvement in blue photon output and a reduced series‐resistance Joule heat loss ratio. The findings underscore the promising nature of the CHM‐TTANA‐D structure as a favorable design paradigm for high‐performance crystalline thin‐film OLEDs (C‐OLEDs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oleogel technology has grown into a substantial research area over the past decade and development through a body of scientific patents and publications. Despite many exciting improvements in structural mechanisms and system development, promoting this technology from a laboratory study into an industrial production is not an easy task. Successful commercialization is predicated on the oleogel being able to adequately replace the various roles played by conventional plastic fats in complex food systems. To this end, certain inevitable limitations, such as poor plasticity, low structural stability, and intricate production procedures, need to be addressed first. This review gives the freedom‐spaces available for product developments and provides a deeper understanding for researchers in the oleogel technology combining both sides of patents and literatures. An insight analysis regarding research trends, hot topics, influences, and technology life cycle of current inventions has been conducted. Current structural strategies, formulations, and implementation scales are also discussed. Finally, future perspectives on the technology are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mullite is an aluminosilicate compound that can be fabricated from various sources of raw materials. Mullite (α) was synthesized from six different mine tailings reinforced with alumina. The tailings were finely ground into powder to determine their chemical components using X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopic technologies. Silica was discovered in all the tailings in significant quantities followed by alumina (high purity α‐alumina). 50 g of the first sample which composed 68.8 w(M)/10−2 of SiO2 and 13.2 w(M)/10−2 of Al2O3 was measured, reinforced with 81.1 g of Al2O3 and subjected to a high‐energy ball mill for 30 min to enhance the reaction between SiO2 and Al2O3. The process was repeated for all six powdered tailings. Each mixture was sintered at 1100°C and 1200°C in a muffle furnace for 4 hours at a heating rate of 10°C/min. The sintered materials were characterized using SEM, EDS, XRD, and FTIR techniques. Results and analysis show a significant amount of prismatic α‐mullite formed in all six sintered samples. The formation of mullite crystals was observed to increase with an increase in temperature from 1100°C to 1200°C. The phenomenal fabrication of mullite from mine tailings is significant in ceramic technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-molecular-weight amorphous polymers undergo a change from a glassy to a rubbery state on heating. Conversely, it changes from a rubbery to a glassy state on cooling. This is called glass transition, which occurs at glass transition temperature (Tg). But low-molecular-weight polymers change from a glassy to a liquid state above the flow temperature. Glass transition is important in many fields such as food processing, functioning of vibration dampers, and polymer electrolytes. Glass transition of a polymer is so crucial that sometimes it can defeat a great mission that aims at the progress of entire mankind. In addition, at times, it can even take the lives of many people as in a space shuttle, such as the Challenger disaster. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Türkiye Klinikleri Journal of Ophthalmology is the property of Turkiye Klinikleri and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Ketoconazole (K) is a poorly water-soluble drug that faces significant challenges in achieving therapeutic efficacy. This study aimed to enhance the dissolution rate of ketoconazole by depositing spray-dried ketoconazole (SK) onto the surface of ground trehalose dihydrate (T) using spray drying. Ketoconazole-trehalose surface solid dispersions (SKTs) were prepared in ratios of 1:1 (SK1T1), 1:4 (SK1T4), and 1:10 (SK1T10), and characterized them using particle size analysis, scanning electron microscopy, powder X-ray diffraction, and in vitro dissolution studies. Results showed that the dissolution rates of the dispersions were significantly higher than those of pure ketoconazole, with the 1:10 ratio showing the highest dissolution rate. The improved dissolution was attributed to the formation of a new crystalline phase and better dispersion of ketoconazole particles. These findings suggest that the surface solid dispersion approach could be a valuable method for enhancing the bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Until now, crystalline NiCo2S4 and its composites have demonstrated improved performance in supercapacitor applications compared to their oxide analogues due to their relatively higher electrical conductivity and multifaceted redox reaction. However, amorphous phase materials have recently shown promise in electrochemical energy storage systems. This work reports on amorphous NiCo2S4 with the help of urea via the hydrothermal method. It was noted that urea not only aided the amorphous formation but also served as a nitrogen precursor. In comparison, amorphous NiCo2S4 demonstrated a higher nitrogen atom% of 5.9 compared to 4.49 for crystalline NiCo2S4. Furthermore, the amorphous NiCo2S4 electrode exhibited superior electrochemical performance, with a specific capacitance of ~3506 F g−1, which was higher than the cNCS electrode's specific capacitance of ~2185 F g−1 at 2 A g−1. Additionally, aNCS in a two-electrode asymmetric supercapacitor exhibited a specific capacitance and an energy density of ~196 F g−1 and 56 Wh kg−1, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research is part of a continuing effort to synthesize copper and zinc arsenates (III) to use as a zinc dust activator in zinc sulphate solution purification. In this paper, the feasibility of synthesizing crystalline, mono-phase zinc and copper arsenates (III) were investigated. Copper and zinc arsenates (III) were prepared by adding their sulphate solutions into arsenious solution obtained by dissolving As2O3 in NaOH aqueous solution. The structure and crystal lattice of the products and amount of the elements in precipitations were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS), respectively. Based on the results of XRD in the conditions of NaOH concentration = 1 mol/L, n (OH–)/n(As) = 1:1, n(Cu)/n(As) = 1:2, reaction temperature 90°C and reaction time 8h, a mono-phase crystalline copper arsenate (III) with the chemical composition of Cu(AsO2)2 and tetragonal crystal lattice was synthesized. In these conditions, the yields of arsenic and copper precipitation from the solution were 93.81% and 97.68%, respectively. Based on the XRD results in the conditions of NaOH concentration = 1 L, n (OH–)/n(As) = 1:1, n(Zn)/n(As) = 1:2, reaction temperature 80°C, reaction time 2h and washing pH = 6, a mono-phase crystalline zinc arsenate (III) with the chemical composition of Zn(AsO2)2 and monoclinic crystal lattice was synthesized. In these conditions, the yields of arsenic and zinc extraction from the solution were 77.70% and 46.37%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitochondria serve a wide range of functions within cells, most notably via their production of ATP. Although their morphology is commonly described as bean-like, mitochondria often form interconnected networks within cells that exhibit dynamic restructuring through a variety of physical changes. Further, though relationships between form and function in biology are well established, the extant toolkit for understanding mitochondrial morphology is limited. Here, we emphasize new and established methods for quantitatively describing mitochondrial networks, ranging from unweighted graph-theoretic representations to multi-scale approaches from applied topology, in particular persistent homology. We also show fundamental relationships between mitochondrial networks, mathematics, and physics, using ideas of graph planarity and statistical mechanics to better understand the full possible morphological space of mitochondrial network structures. Lastly, we provide suggestions for how examination of mitochondrial network form through the language of mathematics can inform biological understanding, and vice versa.

We study the intricate interplay between ecological and evolutionary processes through the lens of the prisoners dilemma game. But while previous studies on cooperation amongst selfish individuals often assume instantaneous interactions, we take into consideration delays to investigate how these might affect the causes underlying prosocial behavior. Through analytical calculations and numerical simulations, we demonstrate that delays can lead to oscillations, and by incorporating also the ecological variable of altruistic free space and the evolutionary strategy of punishment, we explore how these factors impact population and community dynamics. Depending on the parameter values and the initial fraction of each strategy, the studied eco-evolutionary model can mimic a cyclic dominance system and even exhibit chaotic behavior, thereby highlighting the importance of complex dynamics for the effective management and conservation of ecological communities. Our research thus contributes to the broader understanding of group decision-making and the emergence of moral behavior in multidimensional social systems.

Biominerals formed by animals are most frequently calcium carbonate or phosphate polycrystalline materials with complex hierarchical structures. This article will focus on the 10-nm–10-µm scale, termed “mesoscale,” at which the “mesostructure” differs greatly across biominerals, is relevant to their mechanical properties, and reveals formation mechanisms in sea urchin teeth, mollusk shell prisms and nacre, human enamel, and coral skeletons. This article will conclude by focusing on important unanswered questions to inspire future research. Graphical abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.].

This is the first study investigating the aberrant otolith morphology in the Lessepsian lizardfish Saurida lessepsianus in the Aegean Sea, Turkey. A Leica Emspira 3 digital microscope was used to determine the aberrant otoliths examined. Two female specimens measuring 230 and 274 mm in total length (TL) were examined and showed an aberrant otolith on both sides of their head. These deformities might have been instigated by the impacts of changing water factors related to diverse pollutants in the Aegean Sea. Characteristics of otolith deformities are of immeasurable significance for aquatic habitats and other otolith studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physiochemical, structural, and molecular characteristics of starch influence its functional properties, thereby dictating its utilization. The study aimed to profile the properties and quantity of resistant starch (RS) from 15 different banana varieties, extracted using a combination of alkaline and enzyme treatments. Granular structure and molecular organization were analyzed using light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The physiochemical and functional properties were also investigated. RS content ranged from 49% to 80% without significant relationship to amylose (AM) (r = −0.1062). SEM revealed significant microarchitectural differences on the granules potentially affecting granule digestibility. FTIR and chemometrics identified differences in the crystalline peaks, yielding varying degrees of the molecular order of the RS polymers that aid in differentiating the RS sources. Despite similar solubility and swelling profiles, the pasting profiles varied across varieties, indicating high paste stability in hydrothermal processing. Clarity ranged from 43% to 93%, attributed to amylose leaching. This study highlights that RS from bananas varies in quantity, structure, and functionality, necessitating individualized approaches for processing and utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Monascus pigment (MP) is a natural food coloring with vital physiological functions but prone to degradation and color fading under light conditions. RESULTS: This study investigated the effect of complex formation of soybean protein isolate (SPI), maltodextrin (MD), and MP on the photostability of MP. Light stability was assessed through retention rate and color difference. Fluorescence spectroscopy (FS), circular dichroism (CD), Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) explored MP, SPI, and MD interactions, clarifying the MP–SPI–MD complex mechanism on the light stability of MP. Microstructure and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analyzed the morphology and thermal properties. The retention rate of MP increased to approximately 80%, and minimal color difference was observed when adding SPI and MD simultaneously. FS revealed hydrophobic interaction between MP and SPI. FTIR analysis showed intensity changes and peak shifts in amide I band and amide II band, which proved the hydrophobic interaction. CD showed a decrease in α‐helix content and an increase in β‐sheet content after complex formation, indicating strengthened hydrogen bonding interactions. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis demonstrated that MP was attached to the surface and interior of complexes. XRD showed MP as crystalline, while SPI and MD were amorphous, complexes exhibited weakened or absent peaks, suggesting MP encapsulation. The results of DSC were consistent with XRD. CONCLUSION: SPI and MD enveloped MP through hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interaction, ultimately enhancing its light stability and providing insights for pigment–protein–polysaccharide interactions and improving pigment stability in the food industry. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Food & Machinery is the property of Food & Machinery Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Solid-oxide fuel cells offer numerous competitive advantages, including higher efficiency and low emissions of greenhouse gases. Material synthesis and selection of its components, including cathode, anode, electrolyte, and interconnect, play a vital role in obtaining the goal. La1-xSrxY0.75Co0.25O3 (x= 0.10, 0.20, 0.30, 0.40) perovskite material in the crystalline form of size 185nm to 245nm has been synthesized for its applications. Substituent increases the density value. The material exhibited weight loss on and above 400 oC temperature confirming the creation of oxygen vacancy on reduction of Y3+/Co3+, and the temperature expansion coefficient decreased with Sr2+ substitution. Impedance analysis of all the samples confirmed that the material is dielectric enough and conductivity increased with temperature, frequency, and doping content. The conductivity of the material was found to be more than 100 S/cm above 600 oC, and the activation energy of the material was found to be 0.19 eV for compositions 0.10 and 0.17 eV for 0.40. Observed parameters confirmed that the material synthesized is appropriate for the cathode component of the cell which can work at an intermediate temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An 8-year-old female pre-metamorphic axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) was examined for a suspected anterior lens luxation. Slit-lamp biomicroscopy revealed two lens-like structures in the anterior chamber of the right eye (OD), each with cataractous change. Ultrasound biomicroscopy and optical coherence tomography (OCT) were performed without sedation, and revealed small lenticular structures each with distinct nuclei and cortices. Although a distinct connection of the two lenticular structures could not be definitively ruled out, the structures appeared separate. Each of the lenticular structures was closely associated with its respective iris leaflet. This report demonstrates application of advanced imaging for diagnostic use in axolotl ophthalmology, showing that imaging of the lens can be performed without sedation, topical anesthetic, nor contact gel with high diagnostic quality. Although two distinct lenses were diagnosed with no historical evidence of trauma, the small sizes of each lenticular structure, with no detectable connection between them, are suggestive of a possible regenerative abnormality. This report opens discussion for the regenerative capabilities of the pre-metamorphic adult axolotl and possible implementations of their use in regenerative medicine research for the development of future therapies.

Background/objectivesWe provide global averages and standard deviations for ocular biometry-axial length (AL), corneal radius of curvature (CR), anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens thickness (LT), white to white (WTW), and central corneal thickness (CT). We hope a better understanding of normal and abnormal values will help clinicians gain further insight into their surgical outcomes, especially for off-target eyes.Subjects/methodsWe searched the MEDLINE database using keywords "axial length, corneal power, anterior chamber depth, lens thickness, white to white, and corneal thickness." We included studies that reported averages and standard deviations on eye biometry for at least 1300 eyes. Global weighted averages and standard deviations were calculated using the Cochrane method.ResultsFourteen studies were included, originating from Asia (Japan, Singapore, Myanmar, Iran, South Korea, China), Europe (Germany, United Kingdom, Portugal), Australia, and North America (United States). Global ocular biometry metrics were: AL-23.49 mm ± 1.35 mm, CR-7.69 mm ± 0.28 mm, ACD-3.10 mm ± 0.47 mm, WTW-11.80 mm ± 0.42 mm, LT-4.37 mm ± 0.43 mm, and CT-544 μm ± 38 μm. Total eyes per value ranged from 19,538 to 90,814.ConclusionsWe report global ocular biometry averages and standard deviations. No eyes were from studies in Africa or South America, highlighting the need to publish eye biometry data from these continents. We hope that promoting a deeper understanding of biometry values will help clinicians gain insight into surgical outcomes and drive innovations in lens calculations.

Network Hamiltonian models (NHMs) are a framework for topological coarse-graining of protein-protein interactions, in which each node corresponds to a protein, and edges are drawn between nodes representing proteins that are noncovalently bound. Here, this framework is applied to aggregates of γD-crystallin, a structural protein of the eye lens implicated in cataract disease. The NHMs in this study are generated from atomistic simulations of equilibrium distributions of wild-type and the cataract-causing variant W42R in solution, performed by Wong, E. K.; Prytkova, V.; Freites, J. A.; Butts, C. T.; Tobias, D. J. Molecular Mechanism of Aggregation of the Cataract-Related γD-Crystallin W42R Variant from Multiscale Atomistic Simulations. Biochemistry2019, 58 (35), 3691-3699. Network models are shown to successfully reproduce the aggregate size and structure observed in the atomistic simulation, and provide information about the transient protein-protein interactions therein. The system size is scaled from the original 375 monomers to a system of 10000 monomers, revealing a lowering of the upper tail of the aggregate size distribution of the W42R variant. Extrapolation to higher and lower concentrations is also performed. These results provide an example of the utility of NHMs for coarse-grained simulation of protein systems, as well as their ability to scale to large system sizes and high concentrations, reducing computational costs while retaining topological information about the system.

Abstract Humans are the only species who generate waste materials that cannot be broken down by natural processes. The ideal solution to this waste problem would be to employ only compostable materials. Biodegradable materials play a key role in creating a safer and greener world. Biodegradability is the gift that keeps on giving, in the sense of creating an Earth worth living. The future is thus best served by green energy, sustainability, and renewable resources. To realize such goals, waste should be considered as a valuable resource. In this context, Zea mays (Zm) root fibres, which are normally considered as agricultural waste, can be used as reinforcing substances in polymer matrices to produce structural composite materials. Before being used in composites, such fibres must be analysed for their physical properties. Chemical treatments can be employed to improve the structural quality of fibres, and the changes due to such modification can be analysed. Therefore, the current work examines the effect of permanganate treatment on the surface properties of Zm fibres. The raw and potassium permanganate-treated samples were assayed for various properties. Physical analysis of the fibre samples yielded details concerning the physical aspects of the fibres. The thermal conductivity and moisture absorption behaviour of the samples were analysed. Chemical analysis was employed to characterize the composition of both treated and untreated samples. p-XRD was employed to examine the crystalline nature of the Zm fibres. Numerous functional groups present in each sample were analysed by FTIR. Thermogravimetric analysis was used to determine the thermal stability of Zm fibres. Elemental analysis (CHNS and EDS) was used to determine the elemental concentrations of both raw and treated samples. The surface alterations of Zm fibres brought on by treatment were described using SEM analysis. The characteristics of Zm roots and the changes in quality due to treatment were reviewed, and there were noticeable effects due to the treatment. Both samples would have applications in various fields, and each could be used as a potential reinforcing material in the production of efficient bio-composites.

为充分利用油莎豆油及改善人造奶油的营养品质，以油莎豆油和棕榈硬脂为原料制备人造奶油，与5种市售人造奶油的理化性质进行对比分析，并将其应用到面包制作中。结果表明:自制人造奶油的熔点（33.51 ℃）在5种市售人造奶油的熔点范围内（32.33~45.43 ℃），且满足LS/T 3217—1987标准要求；自制人造奶油具有较好的延展性、抗渗油能力以及良好的口融性，同时拥有较低的饱和脂肪酸含量（ ＜40%）、动脉粥样硬化指数（0.56）和血栓形成指数（1.15）；与市售人造奶油相比，自制人造奶油具有较多的β′晶型以及较好的热性质；添加自制人造奶油的面包，具有较低的烘焙损失率、较大的比容和较好的感官评分。综上，自制人造奶油具有良好的发展潜力，有望代替市售人造奶油应用到面包、饼干、甜点等焙烤领域。In order to fully utilize tiger nut oil and improve the nutritional quality of margarine, margarine was prepared from tiger nut oil and palm stearin, and its physicochemical properties were compared with five commercial margarines, and it was applied to bread making. The results showed that the melting point of homemade margarine (33.51 ℃) was within the melting point range of five commercial margarines(32.33-45.43 ℃) and met the requirements of LS/T 3217-1987. Homemade margarine had good ductility, resistance to oil seepage, and good oral thawing properties, while it had a low saturated fatty acid content(