Capsule Size Research Articles

Leveraging a new data resource to define the response of C. neoformans to environmental signals.

Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen with a polysaccharide capsule that becomes greatly enlarged in the mammalian host and during in vitro growth under host-like conditions. To understand how individual environmental signals affect capsule size and gene expression, we grew cells in all combinations of five signals implicated in capsule size and systematically measured cell and capsule sizes. We also sampled these cultures over time and performed RNA-Seq in quadruplicate, yielding 881 RNA-Seq samples. Analysis of the resulting data sets showed that capsule induction in tissue culture medium, typically used to represent host-like conditions, requires the presence of either CO2 or exogenous cyclic AMP (cAMP). Surprisingly, adding either of these pushes overall gene expression in the opposite direction from tissue culture media alone, even though both are required for capsule development. Another unexpected finding was that rich medium blocks capsule growth completely. Statistical analysis further revealed many genes whose expression is associated with capsule thickness; deletion of one of these significantly reduced capsule size. Beyond illuminating capsule induction, our massive, uniformly collected dataset will be a significant resource for the research community.

ТЕХНОЛОГИЯ ПОЛУЧЕНИЯ НАНОКАПСУЛ ДЛЯ ДОСТАВКИ ЛЕКАРСТВЕННЫХ СРЕДСТВ

Encapsulation of active ingredients in solid capsules made of biodegradable materials has attracted considerable attention over the past decades. In this brief review, we focus on the preparation of micro- and nanosized capsules and emulsions based on artificial peptides as a fully degradable material. It discusses various approaches to the preparation of polymer-based capsules as well as their critical properties such as size and stability. Dispersed polymer nanocapsules can serve as nanosized drug carriers to achieve controlled release as well as effective drug administration. The stability of the dispersion is determined by the type of surfactant and the nature of the outer shell of the capsule. Their release and degradation properties largely depend on the composition and structure of the capsule walls. Another important criterion is the capsule size, where the optimum is usually observed in the radius range of 100 to 500 nm. Nanocapsules can be prepared in fundamentally different ways: nanoprecipitation, emulsion diffusion, double emulsification, emulsion coacervation, polymer coating and layer-by-layer, and depend on the methodological and mechanistic aspects, encapsulation of the active substance and the raw materials used. Nanocapsules made using various biodegradable polymers are attracting increasing attention and are considered as one of the most promising drug delivery systems. Nanoencapsulated systems have a relatively higher intracellular absorption compared to microparticles, which can be modified depending on the surface charges of the nanocapsules and the hydrophilic or hydrophobic nature of the polymer used to form the shell.

Leveraging a new data resource to define the response of C. neoformans to environmental signals: How host-like signals drive gene expression and capsule expansion in Cryptococcus neoformans.

Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen with a polysaccharide capsule that becomes greatly enlarged in the mammalian host and during in vitro growth under host-like conditions. To understand how individual environmental signals affect capsule size and gene expression, we grew cells in all combinations of five signals implicated in capsule size and systematically measured cell and capsule sizes. We also sampled these cultures over time and performed RNA-Seq in quadruplicate, yielding 881 RNA-Seq samples. Analysis of the resulting data sets showed that capsule induction in tissue culture medium, typically used to represent host-like conditions, requires the presence of either CO2 or exogenous cyclic AMP (cAMP). Surprisingly, adding either of these pushes overall gene expression in the opposite direction from tissue culture media alone, even though both are required for capsule development. Another unexpected finding was that rich medium blocks capsule growth completely. Statistical analysis further revealed many genes whose expression is associated with capsule thickness; deletion of one of these significantly reduced capsule size. Beyond illuminating capsule induction, our massive, uniformly collected dataset will be a significant resource for the research community.

Nematocyst Types and Characteristics in the Tentacles of Gershwinia thailandensis and Morbakka sp. (Cubozoa: Carybdeida) from the Gulf of Thailand.

Nematocysts, specialized stinging cells in cnidarians, play a crucial role in both defense and prey capture, containing venomous, coiled tubes within a capsule. While box jellyfish are recognized as a medical threat, information on the nematocysts of species like Gershwinia thailandensis and Morbakka sp. from Thai waters remains sparse. This study explores the types and morphology of nematocysts found in the tentacles of these species using light and scanning electron microscopy. We identified three nematocyst types: club-shaped microbasic p-mastigophores, oval isorhizas, and oval microbasic p-rhopaloids. Notably, significant differences in capsule sizes were observed, especially in the microbasic p-mastigophores and isorhizas. The discharge tubules tapered from the proximal to the distal ends, featuring arrow-shaped spines in a helical pattern. A distinct lancet structure was present in both microbasic p-mastigophores and p-rhopaloids. These findings suggest that variations in nematocyst size and morphology may be linked to evolutionary adaptations, functional roles, and venom toxicity. Further research into venom discharge mechanisms could offer valuable insights into the ecological and medical importance of these cnidarians.

Standardisation of microencapsulation protocol for chilled preservation of Malabari buck spermatozoa

The present study was conducted to standardise the protocol for microencapsulation of buck spermatozoa for its chilled preservation. Semen ejaculates collected from Malabari bucks of age two to three years, weighing 42 to 46 Kg and maintained under uniform managemental conditions were utilised. Sodium alginate of concentrations 0.5, 0.75 and 1.5 per cent with varying gauge sized hypodermic needles of 18G, 20G and 23G were used. The distance between the tip of the needle and the upper meniscus of BaCl2 solution was adjusted to varied distance like ≥ 7 cm, 3.5 to 5 cm, ≤ 2cm. This resulted in capsule sizes of 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 6 mm and 7 mm. Different shape of capsules like globular, plate like, irregular, tear-drop and oval were obtained and the capsule stability varied from 35 to 75 per cent. Capsule parameters were assessed at 0 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h and 96 h of chilled preservation in EYC extender at ratio of (1:2). The results of the present study cited that 1.5 per cent sodium alginate concentration, with 23G sized hypodermic needle and distance of 3.5 cm were ideal to acquire uniform spherical shaped stable capsule of size 1.90 ± 0.03 and stability of 75 per cent Keywords: Microencapsulation, chilled preservation, buck spermatozoa, Malabari

Allium taiseba, a new species of Allium sect. Scorodon (Amaryllidaceae) from Van province (Turkey)

A new species, Allium taiseba (A. sect. Scorodon), is described from Hoşap (Xoşap)/Van province, Turkey. It is morphologically similar to A. bingoelense, but it differs in several morphological features including inner tunic's colour of bulb, spathe length, tepal colours and size, stamen colour and length, ovary shape, style colour and length, capsule and seeds size. A comprehensive description of the new species is provided, including detailed photographs, geographical distribution map, habitat and ecology, vernacular names and IUCN conservation status.

Sesame, an Underutilized Oil Seed Crop: Breeding Achievements and Future Challenges.

Sesame seeds and their edible oil are highly nutritious and rich in mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Bioactive compounds such as sterols, tocopherols, and sesamol provide significant medicinal benefits. The high oil content (50%) and favorable mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acid balance, as well as resilience to water stress, make sesame a promising candidate crop for global agricultural expansion. However, sesame production faces challenges such as low yields, poor response to agricultural inputs, and losses due to capsule dehiscence. To enhance yield, traits like determinate growth, dwarfism, a high harvest index, non-shattering capsules, disease resistance, and photoperiod sensitivity are needed. These traits can be achieved through variation or induced mutation breeding. Crossbreeding methods often result in unwanted genetic changes. The gene editing CRISPR/Cas9 technology has the potential to suppress detrimental alleles and improve the fatty acid profile by inhibiting polyunsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis. Even though sesame is an orphan crop, it has entered the genomic era, with available sequences assisting molecular breeding efforts. This progress aids in associating single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and simple sequence repeats (SSR) with key economic traits, as well as identifying genes related to adaptability, oil production, fatty acid synthesis, and photosynthesis. Additionally, transcriptomic research can reveal genes involved in abiotic stress responses and adaptation to diverse climates. The mapping of quantitative trait loci (QTL) can identify loci linked to key traits such as capsule size, seed count per capsule, and capsule number per plant. This article reviews recent advances in sesame breeding, discusses ongoing challenges, and explores potential strategies for future improvement. Hence, integrating advanced genomic tools and breeding strategies provides promising ways to enhance sesame production to meet global demands.

The long road to ignition: An eyewitness account

This paper reviews the many twists and turns in the long journey that culminated in ignition in late 2022 using the laser heated indirect-drive approach to imploding DT filled targets at the National Ignition Facility (NIF), located at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). We describe the early origins of the Laser Program at LLNL and key developments such as the paradigm shifting birth of high energy density physics (HEDP) studies with lasers, changes in choice of laser wavelength, and the development of key diagnostics and computer codes. Fulfilling the requirements of the multi-faceted Nova Technical Contract was a necessary condition for the approval of the NIF, but more importantly, the end of the Cold War and the cessation of nuclear testing were key catalysts in that approval, along with the ready-and-waiting field of HEDP. The inherent flexibility of the field of laser driven inertial confinement fusion played a fundamental role in achieving success at the NIF. We describe how the ultimately successful ignition target design evolved from the original “point design” target, through the lessons of experiment. All key aspects of that original design changed: The capsule's materials and size were changed; the hohlraum's materials, size, laser entrance hole size, and gas fills were also all changed, as were the laser pulse shapes that go along with all those changes. The philosophy to globally optimize performance for stability (by raising the adiabat and thus lowering the implosion convergence) was also key, as was progress in target fabrication, and in increasing NIF's energy output. The persistence of the research staff and the steadfast backing of our supporters were also necessary elements in this success. We gratefully acknowledge seven decades of researcher endeavors and four decades of the dedicated efforts of many hundreds of personnel across the globe who have participated in NIF construction, operation, target fabrication, diagnostic, and theoretical advances that have culminated in ignition.

A simplified predictive model for the compression behavior of self-healing microcapsules using an empirical coefficient

Abstract This study is dedicated to predicting the compression behavior of microcapsules, a key aspect in self-healing applications. Understanding the compression behavior of microcapsules, mainly due to their liquid cores, is a complex task. Equally challenging is the evaluation of the shell properties. We aimed to streamline this prediction process by introducing the empirical coefficient C core, which accounts for core influence. We conducted experiments on microcapsules with MUF (Melamine–Urea–Formaldehyde) shells, compressing them between two plates and recording their responses to load and displacement. The empirical coefficient, influenced by capsule size, shell properties, and core volume fraction, was then analyzed in terms of microcapsule size and Young’s modulus. The research results showed that as the diameter of microcapsule and Young’s modulus of the shell increased, the Ccore also increased. This relationship could be represented in a three-dimensional surface. These findings could significantly contribute to estimating shell properties and modeling matrices with dispersed microcapsules.

Leveraging genetic resource diversity and identification of trait-enriched superior genotypes for accelerated improvement in linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.)

Linseed or flaxseed, native to the Indian subcontinent, had undergone domestication, edaphic selection and evolutionary processes that may have resulted in huge genetic variability in Indian genotypes. To understand the hitherto unexplored genetic diversity for sustainable flaxseed production amid challenges of climate fluctuation and identify trait-specific high-yielding genotypes, 2576 unique linseed accessions were comprehensively evaluated for 36 traits for up to six environments representing two major agroecological zones in India. A wide range of variability was recorded for days to initiation of flowering (42.86–114.99), plant height (43.31–122.88 cm), capsules/plant (64.62–375.87), seed size (6.06–14.44 cm2), thousand seed weight (2.80–11.86 g), seed yield (2.93–17.28 g/plant), oil content (30.14–45.96%) and fatty acid profile especially the key constituent omega-3 fatty acid (25.4–65.88%). Most of the traits such as plant height, flowering time, seed yield, seed and capsule size showed a high or moderately high level of variance coupled with high broad sense heritability indicating precise capturing of less heritable quantitative traits. The infraspecific classification of the tested collection revealed the seed/oil type (2498 accessions) as the dominant morphotype over dual-purpose/fiber flax (78 accessions) in the conserved collection. Correlation analysis indicated a significant positive association between flowering time, plant height, days to maturity and oil content. Trait-specific superior genotypes for earliness (50% flowering in < 60 days, maturity in < 122 days), bold seeds with high thousand seed weight (> 11 g), capsules/plant (> 350), oil content (> 45%) and fatty acid composition (> 65% alpha-linolenic acid) were identified to aid genetic improvement of linseed and to broaden the narrow genetic base.

Single-domain structure of Fe3O4 nanoparticles encapsulation by magnetic surfactant M(AOT)2 (M=Co, Ni)

Investigating the magnetic nanoparticle size and the effective magnetic interactions that form the magnetic domain can lead us to nanoparticles with targeted applications, such as targeted drug delivery and higher resolution MRI imaging. In this study magnetic susceptibility and coercive field properties, and the structure size range of single-domain magnetic capsules with high magnetization were obtained by structural analysis of volumetric DLS properties. In this regard, the role of exchange, anisotropy, and magnetostatic interaction was investigated in the structure of a magnetic capsule containing Fe3O4 nanoparticles (MCap-NPs). The stable capsules were synthesized in an emulsion solution with magnetic surfactants M(AOT)2 (M = Co, Ni). Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM) and capsule relative volume (CRV) of Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) were used to determine the magnetic properties of the single-domain (SD) structure. The produced emulsion samples were found to have superparamagnetic properties property with saturation magnetization in the range of 2–6 × 10−3emu/g for NiCap-NPs, and 5-13 × 10−3emu/g for CoCap-NPs. The results show that nanoparticles have the most significant effect on magnetization. The coercive field, the anisotropy energy values, and the SD of M(AOT)2 were determined using magnetic susceptibility distribution. The outcome results show that the surface of the magnetic capsule plays an essential role in forming a single-domain structure. It was also found that the saturation magnetization of the samples in the emulsion solution is proportional to the nanoparticle density and not to the mass of nanoparticles. All produced samples have distinct peaks in CRV versus capsule size, and each peak follows a log-normal distribution. For both samples, except for the samples with molar ratios ω of 23 (Co3 and Ni4 samples), the positions of the second and third relative volume peaks were constant at 269 ± 3 nm and 424±6 nm, respectively. The behavior of the CRV function normalized to the peak size showed a proportionality between the coercive field and the CRV.

Orthogonal Photo‐ and Thermo‐Responsive Fluorescent Polymeric Hydrogels for Multi‐Level Information Encryption and Anti‐Counterfeiting

AbstractStimulus‐responsive fluorescent polymeric materials (FPMs) that can change their fluorescent states via external stimuli have been widely applied in multi‐level information encryption and anti‐counterfeiting. While many efforts have mainly focused on the design of dual‐stimuli responsive FPMs, the construction of orthogonal photo‐ and thermo‐regulation of fluorescent polymeric systems remains a challenge. Here, the orthogonal photo‐ and thermo‐responsive fluorescent polymeric hydrogels (PTFPHs) containing capsules with the phase change materials (PCMs), photoresponsive molecules (DTE), and thermally responsive molecules (TPA‐DCPP) are reported. They are capable of reconfiguring fluorescence (none, green, yellow, red) via photo‐ and thermo‐induced fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) process. Additionally, not only can the thermochromic property of PTFPHs be regulated by modulating the composition of PCMs, but the thermochromic and photochromic properties of PTFPHs can also be tuned by using SDS to control the size of capsules. The developed hydrogels exhibited high fluorescence contrast, fast response, and excellent reversibility. The PTFPHs are successfully applied in multi‐level information encryption and integrated application between temperature monitoring and anti‐counterfeiting. The works represented a strategy for developing multi‐stimuli responsive PTFPHs in multi‐level information encryption and advanced anti‐counterfeiting.

Stereoselective Interactions of Chiral Polyurea Nanocapsules with Albumins.

Exploiting the chirality of nanometric structures to modulate biological systems is an emerging and compelling area of research. In this study, we reveal that chiral polyurea nanocapsules exhibit significant stereoselective interactions with albumins from various sources despite their nearly neutral surface potential. Moreover, these interactions can be modulated by altering the nanocapsule surface composition, offering new opportunities to impact their distribution and, if used as a drug delivery system, the pharmacokinetics of the drug. Notably, these interactions promote preferential cellular internalization of only one chiral configuration. We synthesized chiral polyurea nanocapsules with reproducible sizes via interfacial polymerization between toluene 2,4-diisocyanate and d- or l-lysine enantiomers on a volatile oil-in-water emulsion interface, followed by solvent evaporation. Further synthesis optimization reduced the capsule size to a range compatible with in vivo administration, and capsules with alternating chiral patterns were also produced. The stereoselective interactions with albumins were assessed through capsule size changes, fluorescence quenching, and surface charge measurements. Biocompatibility, stability, and cellular internalization were evaluated. Additionally, scanning transmission electron and atomic force microscopy were carried out to assess the capsule shape, surface composition, and morphology. We discovered that d-nanocapsules exhibited 2.1-2.6 times greater albumin adsorption compared with their l-counterparts. This difference is attributed to the distinct morphology of d-nanocapsules, characterized by a more concave shape, central depression, and rougher surface. The extent of adsorption could be finely tuned by adjusting the d- and l-lysine monomer ratios during synthesis. Both chiral configurations demonstrated biocompatibility and stability with d-nanocapsules showing a 2.5-fold increase in cellular internalization.

Phosphate availability conditions caspofungin tolerance, capsule attachment and titan cell formation in Cryptococcus neoformans.

There is an urgent need for new antifungal drugs to treat invasive fungal diseases. Unfortunately, the echinocandin drugs that are fungicidal against other important fungal pathogens are ineffective against Cryptococcus neoformans, the causative agent of life-threatening meningoencephalitis in immunocompromised people. Contributing mechanisms for echinocandin tolerance are emerging with connections to calcineurin signaling, the cell wall, and membrane composition. In this context, we discovered that a defect in phosphate uptake impairs the tolerance of C. neoformans to the echinocandin caspofungin. Our previous analysis of mutants lacking three high affinity phosphate transporters revealed reduced elaboration of the polysaccharide capsule and attenuated virulence in mice. We investigated the underlying mechanisms and found that loss of the transporters and altered phosphate availability influences the cell wall and membrane composition. These changes contribute to the shedding of capsule polysaccharide thus explaining the reduced size of capsules on mutants lacking the phosphate transporters. We also found an influence of the calcineurin pathway including calcium sensitivity and an involvement of the endoplasmic reticulum in the response to phosphate limitation. Furthermore, we identified membrane and lipid composition changes consistent with the role of phosphate in phospholipid biosynthesis and with previous studies implicating membrane integrity in caspofungin tolerance. Finally, we discovered a contribution of phosphate to titan cell formation, a cell type that displays modified cell wall and capsule composition. Overall, our analysis reinforces the importance of phosphate as a regulator of cell wall and membrane composition with implications for capsule attachment and antifungal drug susceptibility.

Novel eco-friendly nanodiamonds@chitosan hybrid microcapsules via facile electrospraying for self-healing and anticorrosion coating

Nanodiamonds were immobilized into chitosan biopolymer to fabricate hybrid microcapsules via electrospraying technique. Previously optimized electrospraying parameters for the formulation of chitosan microcapsules were adjusted to accommodate the immobilized nanodiamonds and maintain a suitable capsule size for the novel hybrid. The yield and entrapment efficiency of the composite microcapsules, including capsule strength were analyzed. The chemical structure, elemental composition, crystalline phases, size distribution, surface morphology, and thermal stability of microcapsules were assessed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), respectively. The results demonstrated a 39 % reduction in the size of composite microcapsules and sphericity improvement after the adjustment. There was a general observation of good yield and immobilization efficiency with the maximum at 96.2 % and 93.8 % for yield and entrapment efficiency, respectively. Characterized composite microcapsules showed desirable morphology, good thermal stability and enhanced mechanical strength, and overall successful fabrication of the hybrid microcapsules. The hybrid microcapsules were subsequently loaded in epoxy resin and coated on a steel substrate to assess their self-healing and anticorrosion abilities. Cross-scratched coating samples were monitored visually for healing efficiency and further analyzed with EIS and potentiodynamic polarization. The self-healing coating showed efficient self-healing and anticorrosion capabilities with a healing efficiency of 97.3 % and a protection efficiency of 99.4 %, confirming the unique feature of the hybrid chitosan-nanodiamonds microparticles for self-healing and anticorrosion purposes.

Encapsulation of Lacticaseibacillus casei and Lactobacillus acidophilus using Elaeagnus angustifolia L. flour as encapsulating material by emulsion method

AbstractIn this study, Lacticaseibacillus casei and Lactobacillus acidophilus probiotic bacteria were encapsulated using oleaster flour, which is rich in phenolic compounds and has prebiotic properties as potential. The optimum conditions required for the encapsulation of L. casei and L. acidophilus bacteria with maximum efficiency using oleaster flour were determined by central composite design–response surface methodology. As a result of the optimization process, the encapsulation efficiency for L. casei and L. acidophilus capsules was 93.66 ± 2.58% and 74.97 ± 1.34%, respectively. The capsule sizes of L. casei and L. acidophilus encapsulated with oleaster flour were determined by scanning electron microscopy to be 104.8 ± 26.3 and 95.7 ± 12.1 μm, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses showed that there was no change in the structure of the encapsulation material, oleaster flour, after encapsulation. Also, the storage stability of free and encapsulated bacteria was investigated, and it was found that the viability losses of encapsulated probiotic bacteria were less than those of free probiotic bacteria. Finally, the effect of encapsulation on bacterial viability during in vitro gastrointestinal digestion was investigated, which is the main purpose of the study. While free probiotic bacteria cannot reach the intestinal environment alive after in vitro gastrointestinal digestion due to pH and enzyme effects, encapsulated L. casei and L. acidophilus bacteria largely preserved their viability, and their postdigestion viability was 39.59 ± 1.50% and 36.28 ± 0.01%, respectively. The results showed successful encapsulation of L. casei and L. acidophilus probiotic bacteria with oleaster flour.

Bubbling up in a Lab-on-a-Chip: A gravity-driven approach to the formation of polyelectrolyte multilayer capsules and foams

The generation of multi-functional capsules often requires the sequential deposition of different components on the surface of bubbles or drops. Batch-based methods lack fine control over the capsule sizes, including risk of fusion, and cannot ensure identical environments for each capsule. To overcome these issues, different micro/milli-fluidic methods have been developed in the past. However, a major challenge remains in combining an explicit and flexible control over the capsule generation and their residence time in the different solutions within the same device. Using for the first time the example of bubbles covered by layers of oppositely charged polyelectrolytes (PSS/PAH), we introduce an original millifluidic Lab-on-a-Chip device with two novel functions: (1) Size and separation of the bubbles are tuned at constant flow conditions via gas injection through a movible, circular dispense tip into the cross-flow of a rectangular channel. We provide a detailed exploration of the bubbling parameters together with physical justification of the observations. (2) The device exploits gravity to make the generated bubbles rise between horizontally stacked millifluidic chips containing each the controlled flow of a specific polyelectrolyte solution. In analogy with electric circuits, we show how the flow resistance of each chip can be adapted such that bubbles move smoothly between them while avoiding undesired mixing of the solutions. We show first examples of obtained multilayer capsules and discuss their peculiar features, in particular, their outstanding stability with respect to coalescence and dissolution. While our methods use polyelectrolyte assembly on bubbles, they can be readily transferred to other types of solutions or even to drops and particles.

Sac1 links phosphoinositide turnover to cryptococcal virulence.

Cryptococcus neoformans is an environmentally acquired fungal pathogen that causes over 140,000 deaths per year. Cryptococcal infection occurs when infectious particles are deposited into the lung, where they encounter host phagocytic cells. C. neoformans may be engulfed by these phagocytes, an important step of infection that leads to outcomes ranging from termination of infection to cryptococcal dissemination. To study this critical process, we screened approximately 4,700 cryptococcal gene deletion mutants for altered uptake, using primary mouse and human phagocytic cells. Among the hits of these two screens, we identified 93 mutants with perturbed uptake in both systems, as well as others with differences in uptake by only one cell type. We further screened the hits for changes in thickness of the capsule, a protective polysaccharide layer around the cell which is an important cryptococcal virulence factor. The combination of our three screens yielded 45 mutants, including one lacking the phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate phosphatase Sac1. In this work, we implicate Sac1 in both host cell uptake and capsule production. We found that sac1 mutants exhibit lipid trafficking defects, reductions in secretory system function, and changes in capsule size and composition. Many of these changes occur specifically in tissue culture media, highlighting the role of Sac1 phosphatase activity in responding to the stress of host-like conditions. Overall, these findings show how genome-scale screening can identify cellular factors that contribute to our understanding of cryptococcal biology and demonstrate the role of Sac1 in determining fungal virulence.IMPORTANCECryptococcus neoformans is a fungal pathogen with significant impact on global health. Cryptococcal cells inhaled from the environment are deposited into the lungs, where they first contact the human immune system. The interaction between C. neoformans and host cells is critical because this step of infection can determine whether the fungal cells die or proliferate within the human host. Despite the importance of this stage of infection, we have limited knowledge of cryptococcal factors that influence its outcome. In this study, we identify cryptococcal genes that affect uptake by both human and mouse cells. We also identify mutants with altered capsule, a protective coating that surrounds the cells to shield them from the host immune system. Finally, we characterize the role of one gene, SAC1, in these processes. Overall, this study contributes to our understanding of how C. neoformans interacts with and protects itself from host cells.

Optimization of encapsulation parameters for sodium alginate capsules: A study on the effect of temperature and gear pump rotation speed on capsule production and quality

AbstractThis study designed and evaluated an encapsulator unit for producing biocomponent‐containing capsules using sodium alginate. The encapsulator's principle of operation involved maintaining the gel‐forming mixture at a controlled temperature (20–50°C) and utilizing a gear pump to deliver the mixture to a nozzle for capsule formation. Increasing temperature and gear pump rotation speed reduced viscosity, affecting the capsule number, size, and stability. The optimal capsule size and quality were achieved with a sodium alginate concentration of 1%, yielding capsules with rounded shapes, uniform sizes, and soft yet resistant structures. The encapsulation process yielded varying numbers of capsules depending on the rotational speed of the gear pump and the temperature of the gel‐forming mixture. Higher temperatures and rotation speeds generally resulted in increased capsule yields. This research advances encapsulation technology for delivering sensitive biomaterials like probiotics, aiding in process optimization.Practical applicationsThe encapsulator is designed for the production of capsules using structure‐forming compounds and can be used in biotechnology, chemical, food and other industries. The encapsulator allows for the production of capsules with precise size and shell thickness, ensuring high quality.

Establishment of nomogram prediction model of contrast-enhanced ultrasound and Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI for vessels encapsulating tumor clusters pattern of hepatocellular carcinoma.

To establish clinical prediction models of vessels encapsulating tumor clusters (VETC) pattern using preoperative contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and gadolinium-ethoxybenzyl-diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid magnetic resonance imaging (EOB-MRI) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A total of 111 resected HCC lesions from 101 patients were included. Preoperative imaging features of CEUS and EOB-MRI, postoperative recurrence, and survival information were collected from medical records. The best subset regression and multivariable Cox regression were used to select variables to establish the prediction model. The VETC-positive group had a statistically lower survival rate than the VETC-negative group. The selected variables were peritumoral enhancement in the arterial phase (AP), hepatobiliary phase (HBP) on EOB-MRI, intratumoral branching enhancement in the AP of CEUS, intratumoral hypoenhancement in the portal phase of CEUS, incomplete capsule, and tumor size. A nomogram was developed. High and low nomogram scores with a cutoff value of 168 points showed different recurrence-free survival rates and overall survival rates. The area under the curve (AUC) and accuracy were 0.804 and 0.820, respectively, indicating good discrimination. Decision curve analysis showed a good clinical net benefit (threshold probability > 5%), while the Hosmer-Lemeshow test yielded excellent calibration (P = 0.6759). The AUC of the nomogram model combining EOB-MRI and CEUS was higher than that of the models with EOB-MRI factors only (0.767) and CEUS factors only (0.7). The nomogram verified by bootstrapping showed AUC and calibration curves similar to those of the nomogram model. The Prediction model based on CEUS and EOB-MRI is effective for preoperative noninvasive diagnosis of VETC.