Laser Scanning Microscopy Images Research Articles

Corneal nerve abnormalities in early-stage diabetic retinopathy evaluated by corneal confocal microscopy

ObjectiveThis study aims to investigate the correlation between the development of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and the changes in corneal sub-basal nerve plexus (SNP) and corneal dendritic cells (DCs).Methods58 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy participants underwent assessment of the corneal nerve. The DR group was divided into no diabetic retinopathy (NDR) and 29 eyes with mild to moderate non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR). We collected the clinical data (gender, age, body mass index), laboratory indicators (fasting blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin), and confocal laser scanning microscopy images for further analysis. Spearman rank correlation or Pearson correlation analyses were used to evaluate the relationships.ResultsCompared to the control group, all parameters of corneal nerves in the case group were significantly reduced (all P < 0.001). Similarly, the density of immature dendritic cells (DCs) in the NDR group (70.40 [49.10–87.50]) was significantly higher than that in patients with DR (22.80 [14.30–34.50]), while the density of mature DCs (27.80 [17.70–39.60]) was significantly lower than that in patients with DR (70.80 [47.20–90.40]) (all P < 0.001). The morphological score of DCs in the NPDR group (2.6 [2.4–2.8]) was significantly higher than that in the NDR group (1.80 [1.80–2.20]) (all P < 0.001). As diabetes progresses to the stage of diabetic retinopathy, there were significant negative correlations between inferior whorl length (IWL) (rho = -0.802, P < 0.001) and average nerve fiber length ( ANFL) (rho = -0.487, P < 0.001) with the occurrence of DR. Additionally, there were significant positive correlations between the density of mature DCs (rho = 0.704, P < 0.001) and corneal dendritic morphology (DCM)(rho = 0.791, P < 0.001) with the occurrence of DR.ConclusionCompared to patients with NDR, those with NPDR exhibited a reduction in corneal nerve fiber density (CNFD)and corneal nerve fiber length (CNFL), and the length of corneal nerves in the inferior whorl (IW) was also reduced and showed a significant negative correlation with the presence of fundus lesions. Patients with DR had an increased density and morphological score of mature DCs in the cornea. These findings suggest that we should focus on the changes in corneal nerves when screening and diagnosing DR, and treatment should be considered for better prognosis.

Development of natural sporopollenin microcapsules: from bee pollen to versatile biomaterials

Abstract The outer layer of the pollen grain, which plays a crucial role in the continuity of terrestrial plant life, has received significant attention due to its robustness, chemical inertness, and biocompatible structure made of sporopollenin. Herein, we present a straightforward method for producing high-purity (up to 97%) polymeric sporopollenin biocapsules (S-BioCaps) from bee pollen, exploring new plant sources for S-BioCaps, and diversifying the available morphologies to broaden the applications of pollen-based microcapsules. Following a purification process involving defatting, acidolysis, and several washing steps, we removed the inner components of the pollen grains and reduced the protein content to 2%. Confocal laser scanning and scanning electron microscopy images showed that the hollow and 3D S-BioCaps microstructure were preserved, while laser diffraction particle size analysis validated their monodisperse distribution across each pollen type within the size range of 15 to 24 μm. S-BioCaps tended to exhibit hydrophobic behavior when assessed through water dispersion and water marble analysis. Moreover, we sought to figure out the chemical changes occurring in specimens through Fourier-transform infrared analysis, and findings were consistent with simultaneous thermal analysis, where the thermal decomposition of sporopollenin biopolymer reached up to 457 °C. Overall, this work demonstrates a straightforward approach for utilizing pollen grains from Echium sp., Jasione sp., Papaver sp., Amaranthaceae, and Helianthemum sp., collected with the assistance of honeybees, to produce stable S-BioCaps with diverse morphologies, thereby broadening their potential applications as drug delivery microcarriers. Graphical abstract

Effect of bond temperature and bond pattern on fuzz formation in thermally point-bonded spunbond nonwovens

This study investigates the mechanisms of fuzz formation in thermally point-bonded nonwovens, focusing on the effects of bonding temperature and bond pattern. We assessed the degree of fuzz formation in homocomponent PP spunbond fabrics bonded at four different temperatures and with four different bond patterns by utilizing confocal laser scanning microscopy and three-dimensional (3D) image processing. Our findings reveal that bonding conditions and bond geometry significantly influence fuzz formation; higher bonding temperatures and bond patterns arranged more closely to minimize the presence of bond-free pathways effectively reduce fuzz formation. However, higher bond temperatures and closely spaced bonds also impact other important properties, such as bending rigidity and drapability. This work offers insights into achieving an optimal performance for PP spunbond thermally point-bonded nonwovens by controlling calendering parameters.

Poly(Acrylic Acid)/TiO2 Nanocomposite Hydrogels for Paper Artwork Cleaning and Protection.

Paper-based artworks are prone to natural aging processes driven by chemical and biological processes. Numerous treatments have been developed to mitigate deterioration and prevent irreversible damage. In this study, we investigated the use of poly(acrylic acid)/TiO2 composite hydrogels, combining their cleaning and protective functions in a minimally invasive treatment. Hydrogels allow for controlled water flow and photocatalytic TiO2 nanoparticles enhance the hydrogel's efficacy by enabling the removal of oxidation products and inactivating biological contaminants. Furthermore, this innovative material can act as a protective coating against UV-induced aging, preserving both color and stability of the paper. Raman spectroscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy imaging techniques were employed to evaluate the treatments, allowing for us to differentiate between hydrolytic and oxidative aging processes. Our findings demonstrate that papers coated with poly(acrylic acid)/TiO2 composite hydrogels exhibit significant reductions in oxidative markers, an enhanced color stability, and an overall improved resistance to degradation compared to uncoated samples.

Elucidating the uptake and trafficking of nanostructured lipid carriers as delivery systems for miRNA

Cationic nanostructured lipid carriers (cNLCs) represent promising non-viral carriers for nucleic acids, such as miRNAs, forming stable self-assembled miRNA complexes due to electrostatic interactions. Prepared by high-pressure homogenization, cNLC formulations, both with and without Nile Red dye demonstrated stable particle sizes in the range of 100–120 nm and positive surface charges (>30 mV), which are necessary for effective cellular uptake. The miRNA complexes formed at mass ratios of 1:2.5 and 1:5 showed similar stability and size, with positive zeta potentials, as well as high cell viability (> 80 %) in 3T3-L1 and MCF-7 cell lines. The cellular uptake studies of miRNA:cNLC complexes in both cell lines revealed that uptake was time- and concentration-dependent, with rapid initial uptake in 30 min and a zig-zag pattern over 24 h. To elucidate the endocytosis mechanism of miRNA:cNLC complexes, 3T3-L1 and MCF-7 cells were incubated with different inhibitors (chlorpromazine, 5-[N-ethyl-N-isopropyl] amiloride, dynasore, nystatin, or sodium azide with 2-deoxy-d-glucose). Results showed significant inhibition of uptake at low temperatures and with ATP depletion, suggesting endocytosis, particularly macropinocytosis, as the main uptake mechanism in 3T3-L1 cells. In MCF-7 cells, the uptake was less inhibited by the substances, indicating the need for more specific methods to fully decipher the endocytic mechanisms involved. Confocal laser scanning microscopy images revealed that the complexes are internalized in vesicles, and are primarily localized in the juxtanuclear region, suggesting trafficking through the endolysosomal system. Colocalization study with LysoTracker™ Green DND-26 showed significant colocalization of miRNA:cNLC complexes with lysosomes in 3T3-L1 cells, indicating trafficking through the endolysosomal system. In MCF-7 cells, colocalization was lower, suggesting macropinocytosis as the primary uptake mechanism. Additional studies showed partial colocalization between labeled NLCs and miRNA, indicating that about 50 % of miRNA is released from NLCs within 30 min post-transfection.

Utilization of Ultrasonication as a Method of Reducing Organic and Inorganic Contamination in Post‐Consumer Plastic Film Waste

AbstractPost‐consumer plastic film waste often carries organic and inorganic contaminants that challenge recycling processes and affect the quality of recycled products. An effective contaminant removal procedure through washing such single‐used plastic films (SUPFs) can address environmental and waste management concerns. This study compares the efficiency of different washing techniques in reducing SUPF contamination. To evaluate the efficacy of each washing technique, film samples collected from material recovery facilities are individually exposed to friction, ultrasonic‐assisted, and a combination of both washes. Thermal analysis indicates that the polymers' melting temperature, crystallization temperature, and crystallinity remain unaffected by the washing methods, demonstrating method aptness. Confocal laser scanning microscope images show that washing results in a cleaner sample surface. 91% ash reduction during the combined wash treatment indicates a high method efficiency compared to the individual friction and ultrasonic wash procedures. This is further validated by reducing characteristic contaminant IR bands (3600–3000, 1750–1600, and 1100–1000 cm−1). Elements of concern such as Cd, Cr, Hg, and Pb in SUPFs after each washing technique applied conform with regulations (&lt;100 ppm) for packaging products. This research shows the novel ultrasonic washing reduces more contamination than friction with shorter wash times and no surfactants.

Sub-minimum inhibitory concentration of tetrakis(hydroxymethyl)phosphonium sulfate enhances biocorrosion of carbon steel by Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Biocide treatments are commonly employed to mitigate unwanted microbial activities in industrial water systems. This study illuminates the intriguing phenomenon wherein sub-minimum inhibitory concentration (sub-MIC) of tetrakis(hydroxymethyl)phosphonium sulfate (THPS), a frequently used biocide, stimulates the formation of biofilms by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, consequently intensifying the corrosion of carbon steel. Introducing 160 µg/ml THPS, constituting a sub-MIC level, into the culture medium resulted in a notable increase in biofilm thickness and corrosion rate, elevating them from 82 µm and 10 mpy to 97 µm and 18.7 mpy, respectively. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, Tafel polarization and linear polarization resistance measurements substantiated the extent of corrosion. Furthermore, the treated biofilm exhibited a heightened presence of extracellular polymeric substances, improved adherence to the metal surface, enhanced structural integrity, and an extended dispersal phase. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) images revealed a greater abundance of viable sessile cells within the inner layers of the treated biofilm. These findings underscore the role of sub-MIC levels of biocides as a potential driving force for developing more corrosive biofilms on industrial materials, emphasizing the critical importance of precise biocide dosing.

Response of Ceratophyllum demersum L. and its epiphytic biofilms to 6PPD and 6PPD-Q exposure: Based on metabolomics and microbial community analysis

The emerging contaminant N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N′-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine (6PPD) and its ozone conversion product N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N′-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine quinone (6PPD-Q) pose a threat to aquatic ecosystems. Aquatic animals and plants exhibit vigorous responses at very low ambient concentrations. However, studies of submerged macrophytes, key producers in aquatic ecosystems, are limited and the full extent of their toxic effects and feedback mechanisms is unknown. To investigate the phytotoxicity of 6PPD and 6PPD-Q, we modeled plant responses to abiotic stress using Ceratophyllum demersum L. (C. demersum) as a representative submerged plant. Our findings indicate that 6PPD and 6PPD-Q disrupt physiological and biochemical processes in C. demersum, encompassing growth inhibition, reduction in photosynthetic pigments, induction of oxidative damage, and metabolic alterations. Moreover, unfavorable modifications to biofilms induced were also discernible supported by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) images and microbial community profiling. More importantly, we found a robust correlation between differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) and dominant genera, and 6PPD and 6PPD-Q significantly altered their correlation. Overall, our results imply that even though C. demersum is a resilient submerged macrophyte, the toxic effects of 6PPD and 6PPD-Q cannot be disregarded.

Activity of Bambara Groundnut Seed Coat Extract Against Shewanella Species: Efficacy and Mechanisms of Action.

The Bambara groundnut is the indigenous legume in the southern part of Thailand. It contains a seed coat rich in polyphenols, which can serve as natural antimicrobial agents. The extracts from red and white seed coats of Bambara groundnuts, namely RSC and WSC, respectively, were prepared using an ultrasound-assisted extraction process. The extraction yield, total phenolic content (TPC), and antimicrobial activity of both extracts were examined. The RSC extract demonstrated a significantly higher extraction yield (8.35%) than WSC extract (2.34%) (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the TPC of RSC extract (420.98 ± 0.27 mg of gallic acid/g dry extract) was higher than that of WSC extract (28.29 ± 0.91 mg of gallic acid/g dry extract). The RSC extract exhibited stronger inhibition against Shewanella putrefaciens and S. algae than its WSC counterpart. Liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-Q-TOF/MS) analysis indicated that the RSC extract was rich in flavonoids and polyphenols, while the WSC extract contained more triterpenoid saponins. Time-kill kinetics showed that the RSC extract reduced bacterial loads in a dose-dependent manner. Scanning electron microscopic images revealed that drastic bacterial cell membrane damage with a rough surface and the deformation of cells was caused by the extract. Furthermore, confocal laser scanning microscopic (CLSM) images confirmed the inhibition of S. algae biofilm formation by RSC extract. RSC extract also suppressed bacterial motility, induced protein leakage, and reduced extracellular protease activity, thus highlighting its potent bactericidal effects. These findings suggested that the RSC extract rich in phenolic compounds could serve as an antimicrobial agent and hold promise as a natural preservative for perishable foods, especially seafoods.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis enhances microbial contribution to mineral-associated organic carbon persistence in the soil: Insights from soil microbial community and microbial necromass carbon

The formation of mineral-associated organic carbon (MAOC), a critical soil fraction related to soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration, is significantly influenced by microbial processes. Yet, how arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis impacts MAOC accumulation in rhizosphere soils through its effects on microbial contribution remains poorly understood. Here, we assessed the microbial community of different soil samples using 16S rRNA sequencing and found that AM symbiosis influenced the soil microbial community composition and enhanced soil microbial community functions related to carbon (C) degradation. The numbers of live and dead cells (all cells in the soil) were highest in AM-RS (rhizosphere soils in the AMF treatment) based on confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) images. Meanwhile, AM symbiosis increased the proportions of apoptotic cells (19.02%) and necrotic cells (12.12%) in rhizosphere soils. Using soil amino sugars as microbial biomarkers, the concentrations of bacterial necromass C (188.01 g kg-1 OC) and fungal necromass C (392.19 g kg-1 OC) were highest in the MAOC fraction in AM-RS. Additionally, the MAOC content (17.20 g kg-1 soil) and proportion (42.06%) were highest in AM-RS. This research illustrates two primary mechanisms by which AM symbiosis enhances MAOC accumulation: (1) by altering the microbial community composition and function related to C degradation; and (2) by promoting the input of microbial necromass C, especially fungal necromass C. This research broadens our horizons to understand the mechanism of microbial contribution to MAOC accumulation stimulated by AM symbiosis in rhizosphere soils and provides management practices for AMF application to SOC sequestration.

From two segments and beyond: Investigating the onset of regeneration in Syllis malaquini.

Annelids feature a diverse range of regenerative abilities, but complete whole-body regeneration is less common, particularly in the context of the head and anterior body regeneration. This study provides a detailed morphological description of Syllis malaquini regenerative abilities. By replicating previous experiments and performing diverse surgical procedures, we explored the capacity of this species for whole-body regeneration. We detailed the precise timing of regeneration of particular structures such as the eyes, proventricle, pharyngeal tooth, nuchal organs, and body pigmentation after amputation. Our high-resolution scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser-scanning microscopy images provide details of the blastema region, revealing that while anal opening remains in connection to the exterior environment, oral opening is formed "de novo" during blastema differentiation. Additionally, we performed amputations to isolate fragments consisting of one, two, and three segments from the intestinal trunk region. We found that S. malaquini requires at least two to three segments to successfully regenerate the whole body. In addition, we verified a variable capacity to regenerate depending upon the gut region, with structures of the foregut greatly impairing some steps of the regenerative process. Our work notably addresses the gap in knowledge concerning gut formation and its impact on regenerative capabilities. Ongoing research is crucial to unravel the role of gut tissue specificity and plasticity during regeneration in annelids, and particularly in syllids.

Unraveling the impact of salinity on biofouling on ultrafiltration membranes: A spectroscopic and microscopic view

Biofouling significantly hampers the performance and longevity of ultrafiltration (UF) membranes employed in saline wastewater treatment. This research addresses a crucial knowledge gap by meticulously investigating the influence of salinity variations (0–10 g/L NaCl) on biofouling characteristics, utilizing advanced spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. Combined blocking models elucidated the evolution of fouling mechanisms under varying salinity conditions. Higher salinity levels promoted cake layer formation, potentially circumventing initial fouling stages observed under lower salinity conditions. Quantification of confocal laser scanning microscopy images revealed a denser, thinner, and less heterogeneous cake layer at high salinity, composed of proteins, nucleic acids, and α-polysaccharides. The relatively high abundance of polysaccharides may contribute to maintaining osmotic pressure and bacterial cell viability. Moreover, the integration of the confocal Raman mapping technique and non-negative matrix factorization analysis was innovatively applied to characterize the biofouling layer, identifying the important role of carotenoids within the layer. Carotenoids were found to be more abundant in the upper regions of the biofouling layer formed at high salinity, potentially scavenging the reactive oxygen species within bacterial cells. In conclusion, this investigation offers a comprehensive understanding of the salinity-dependent alterations in the chemical composition and spatial structure of the membrane fouling layer. The findings may facilitate the development of targeted mitigation strategies to combat membrane biofouling in saline wastewater treatment applications.

Maillard reacted wheat gluten and polydextrose complex enhances the emulsifying properties and stability of pickering emulsion

This study aims to explore the characteristics and stability of Pickering emulsion based on the Maillard reaction products of polydextrose (PDX) and gluten. The effects of the PDX:gluten ratio (from 0.0:1 P0.0G1 to 2.4:1 P2.4G1) during Maillard reaction on Pickering emulsion quality were examined. The degree of PDX grafting to gluten increased from 0.51% ± 0.05%–18.99% ± 0.98% when the PDX:gluten ratio increased from 0.2:1 to 2.2:1. Scanning electron microscopy and infrared spectroscopy confirmed the structural change and covalent interaction of PDX–gluten conjugate. The P2.2G1 conjugate showed a higher emulsification activity (1.82 ± 0.04 m2/g) compared with P0.0G1 (0.97 ± 0.05 m2/g). The particle size, ζ-potential value and confocal laser scanning microscopic image of PDX–gluten conjugate-based emulsion were compared with those of gluten-based emulsion to illustrate the stability role of PDX–gluten conjugate in the interfacial layer of Pickering emulsion. This study demonstrated that the Maillard reacted gluten–PDX conjugate was a potential stabilizer for Pickering emulsions. These findings provided a foundation knowledge for the construction of Pickering emulsion based on PDX–gluten conjugates.

Photo-responsive Pickering emulsions triggered by in-situ pH modulation using a photoacid generator

HypothesisPickering emulsions that respond to changes in pH by the addition of acid or alkali have been extensively studied, but the development of photo-responsive Pickering emulsions has been more challenging. This study attempts to demonstrate a novel approach to achieve photo-responsiveness in Pickering emulsions by incorporating a photoacid generator (PAG) into the oil phase. Upon UV irradiation, the PAG is expected to release protons (H+), which can then regulate the pH of the emulsion system and control its stability. ExperimentsAmphiphilic colloidal particles obtained by modifying silica particles with poly (2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) (SiO2-PDMAEMA) are used to stabilize the Pickering emulsions. The protonation and deprotonation of the SiO2-PDMAEMA particles at different pH values allow for the tuning of emulsion stability. By introducing the PAG into the stable Pickering emulsion system and applying UV irradiation to trigger the in-situ release of H+, the pH of the emulsion is systematically decreased, and the corresponding changes in emulsion stability are investigated. FindingsThe results show that UV irradiation alone cannot induce emulsion instability. However, when PAG is added to the oil phase, the Pickering emulsions exhibit a significant decrease in pH under UV irradiation, ultimately leading to emulsion destabilization and phase separation. At a UV intensity of 20 mW/cm2 for 2 min, the H+ release from the PAG significantly lower the emulsion’s pH, causing the SiO2-PDMAEMA particles to detach from the oil–water interface and resulting in emulsion instability. Higher concentrations of SiO2-PDMAEMA particles in the emulsion require more PAG to induce instability, as confirm by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) image. This study presents a versatile approach to develop photo-responsive Pickering emulsions which can have potential applications in areas such as drug delivery, cosmetics, and responsive materials.

Computational Support to Explore Ternary Solid Dispersions of Challenging Drugs Using Coformer and Hydroxypropyl Cellulose.

A majority of drugs marketed in amorphous formulations have a good glass-forming ability, while compounds less stable in the amorphous state still pose a formulation challenge. This work explores ternary solid dispersions of two model drugs with a polymer (i.e., hydroxypropyl cellulose) and a coformer as stabilizing excipients. The aim was to introduce a computational approach by preselecting additives using solubility parameter intervals (i.e., overlap range of solubility parameter, ORSP) followed by more advanced COSMO-RS theory modeling. Thus, a mapping of calculated mixing enthalpy and melting points is proposed for in silico evaluation prior to hot melt extrusion. Following experimental testing of process feasibility, the selected formulations were tested for their physical stability using conventional bulk analytics and by confocal laser scanning and atomic force microscopy imaging. In line with the in silico screening, dl-malic and l-tartaric acid (20%, w/w) in HPC formulations showed no signs of early drug crystallization after 3 months. However, l-tartaric acid formulations displayed few crystals on the surface, which was likely a humidity-induced surface phenomenon. Although more research is needed, the conclusion is that the proposed computational small-scale extrusion approach of ternary solid dispersion has great potential in the formulation development of challenging drugs.

A straight-forward fabrication of yuba films with controllable mechanical properties by oil-in-water emulsion model system rather than soymilk

The traditional process of producing yuba films from soybeans strictly limits the development of its industrial production due to the numerous processes and intricate procedures involved. In this study, a straight-forward and effective strategy was proposed to substitute soymilk with an emulsion made from soybean protein isolate and soybean oil for the formation of yuba films. It was found that the mechanical properties of yuba films formed through this method were controlled by the concentrations of proteins and oils. As the protein concentrations increased, a higher ratio of adsorbed proteins adhered to the surface of oil droplets, which in turn facilitated the recombination of proteins and the formation of larger aggregates during heat incubation. The rheological properties and interfacial adsorption behavior suggested that larger protein aggregates exhibited a greater diffusion rate and were more prone to unfolding and re-crosslinking at the interface through heat induction, resulting in the formation of stronger protein networks. Confocal laser scanning microscope images revealed a notable increase in the density of oil distribution within the yuba films as the oil concentrations in the pre-emulsion rose. Combined with the dense protein network formed at high protein concentrations, the elongation of yuba films was significantly increased.

Liposomal black mulberry extract loaded‐nanofibers: preparation, characterisation, and bioaccessibility of phenolics by simulated in vitro digestion combined with the Caco‐2 cell model

SummaryBlack mulberry extract (BME) is rich in phenolics; however, their health benefits are restricted by their instability and poor absorption in the small intestine. Liposomal BME‐loaded pullulan/pectin nanofibers were developed to enhance the in vitro bioaccessibility of BME. The liposomes with BME (0.8%, w/v), were produced by the thin‐film hydration and ultrasonication method with a size of 76.41 ± 1.23 nm and encapsulated 79.40 ± 0.99%.of the BME. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) images showed that the uniform distribution of liposomes within the defect‐free fiber structure. Liposomal BME loading elevated the mucoadhesiveness of the nanofibers compared to free BME loading. Liposomal BME‐loaded nanofiber demonstrated a nearly two‐fold increase in the bioaccessibility of anthocyanins. The cellular release of all four different anthocyanins by Caco‐2 cells was significantly higher (3.92%–10.50%) in liposomal BME‐loaded nanofiber. Therefore, liposomal nanofibers show great potential as a method for delivering phenolics, specifically anthocyanins.

Physicochemical property characterization, amino acid profiling, and sensory evaluation of plant-based ice cream incorporated with soy, pea, and milk proteins

This study examined the effects of incorporating milk protein concentrate (MPC), pea or soy proteins isolates (PPI and SPI) on the physicochemical, sensorial properties, and amino acid composition of ice creams containing 7% protein, in comparison to dairy ice cream as a reference. As protein ingredients, PPI exhibited higher water and oil holding capacity but lower surface hydrophobicity than SPI and MPC. Viscosity of the mixes were proportional to the firmness of ice cream, and both were highest with use of PPI. MPC ice cream had most similar physical and sensory properties to reference. PPI and SPI ice cream mixes showed higher extent of fat coalescence than MPC and reference. PPI and SPI conferred structural stability to ice cream with lower melting rate and better shape retention, and ability to delay ice recrystallization during temperature flocculation as compared with SMP and MPC. Confocal laser scanning microscope images indicated that higher extent of protein aggregation and more air cells were found in PPI ice cream. Sensory and amino acid profile results revealed that PPI and SPI ice creams were inferior in taste, texture, and essential amino acids like methionine. This study offers insights for the development of high protein frozen desserts.

Ocean Species Discoveries 1-12 - A primer for accelerating marine invertebrate taxonomy.

Discoveries of new species often depend on one or a few specimens, leading to delays as researchers wait for additional context, sometimes for decades. There is currently little professional incentive for a single expert to publish a stand-alone species description. Additionally, while many journals accept taxonomic descriptions, even specialist journals expect insights beyond the descriptive work itself. The combination of these factors exacerbates the issue that only a small fraction of marine species are known and new discoveries are described at a slow pace, while they face increasing threats from accelerating global change. To tackle this challenge, this first compilation of Ocean Species Discoveries (OSD) presents a new collaborative framework to accelerate the description and naming of marine invertebrate taxa that can be extended across all phyla. Through a mode of publication that can be speedy, taxonomy-focused and generate higher citation rates, OSD aims to create an attractive home for single species descriptions. This Senckenberg Ocean Species Alliance (SOSA) approach emphasises thorough, but compact species descriptions and diagnoses, with supporting illustrations and with molecular data when available. Even basic species descriptions carry key data for distributions and ecological interactions (e.g., host-parasite relationships) besides universally valid species names; these are essential for downstream uses, such as conservation assessments and communicating biodiversity to the broader public. This paper presents thirteen marine invertebrate taxa, comprising one new genus, eleven new species and one re-description and reinstatement, covering wide taxonomic, geographic, bathymetric and ecological ranges. The taxa addressed herein span three phyla (Mollusca, Arthropoda, Echinodermata), five classes, eight orders and twelve families. Apart from the new genus, an updated generic diagnosis is provided for four other genera. The newly-described species of the phylum Mollusca are Placiphorellamethanophila Vončina, sp. nov. (Polyplacophora, Mopaliidae), Lepetodrilusmarianae Chen, Watanabe & Tsuda, sp. nov. (Gastropoda, Lepetodrilidae), Shinkailepasgigas Chen, Watanabe & Tsuda, sp. nov. (Gastropoda, Phenacolepadidae) and Lyonsiellaillaesa Machado & Sigwart, sp. nov. (Bivalvia, Lyonsiellidae). The new taxa of the phylum Arthropoda are all members of the subphylum Crustacea: Lepechinellanaces Lörz & Engel, sp. nov. (Amphipoda, Lepechinellidae), Cuniculomaeragrata Tandberg & Jażdżewska, gen. et sp. nov. (Amphipoda, Maeridae), Pseudionellapumulaensis Williams & Landschoff, sp. nov. (Isopoda, Bopyridae), Mastigoniscusminimus Wenz, Knauber & Riehl, sp. nov. (Isopoda, Haploniscidae), Macrostylispapandreas Jonannsen, Riehl & Brandt, sp. nov. (Isopoda, Macrostylidae), Austroniscusindobathyasellus Kaiser, Kniesz & Kihara, sp. nov. (Isopoda, Nannoniscidae) and Apseudopsisdaria Esquete & Tato, sp. nov. (Tanaidacea, Apseudidae). In the phylum Echinodermata, the reinstated species is Psychropotesbuglossa E. Perrier, 1886 (Holothuroidea, Psychropotidae).The study areas span the North and Central Atlantic Ocean, the Indian Ocean and the North, East and West Pacific Ocean and depths from 5.2 m to 7081 m. Specimens of eleven free-living and one parasite species were collected from habitats ranging from an estuary to deep-sea trenches. The species were illustrated with photographs, line drawings, micro-computed tomography, confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy images. Molecular data are included for nine species and four species include a molecular diagnosis in addition to their morphological diagnosis.The five new geographic and bathymetric distribution records comprise Lepechinellanaces Lörz & Engel, sp. nov., Cuniculomaeragrata Tandberg & Jażdżewska, sp. nov., Pseudionellapumulaensis Williams & Landschoff, sp. nov., Austroniscusindobathyasellus Kaiser, Kniesz & Kihara, sp. nov. and Psychropotesbuglossa E. Perrier, 1886, with the novelty spanning from the species to the family level. The new parasite record is Pseudionellapumulaensis Williams & Landschoff, sp. nov., found in association with the hermit crab Pagurusfraserorum Landschoff & Komai, 2018.

Intraspecies interactions of Streptococcus mutans impact biofilm architecture and virulence determinants in childhood dental caries.

Early childhood dental caries (ECC) is the most common chronic disease among children, especially among low socioeconomic populations. Streptococcus mutans is most frequently associated with initiation of ECC. Although many studies report children with multiple S. mutans strains (i.e., genotypes) have greater odds of developing ECC, studies investigating intraspecies interactions in dental caries are lacking. This study investigates the impact of intraspecies interactions on cariogenic and fitness traits of clinical S. mutans isolates using in vitro and in vivo approaches. Association analysis evaluated if presence of multiple S. mutans genotypes within the first year of colonization was associated with caries. Initially, clinical S. mutans isolates from 10 children were evaluated. S. mutans strains (G09 and G18, most prevalent) isolated from one child were used for subsequent analysis. Biofilm analysis was performed for single and mixed cultures to assess cariogenic traits, including biofilm biomass, intra-polysaccharide, pH, and glucan. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and time-lapse imaging were used to evaluate spatial and temporal biofilm dynamics, respectively. A Drosophila model was used to assess colonization in vivo. Results showed the mean biofilm pH was significantly lower in co-cultured biofilms versus monoculture. Doubling of S. mutans biofilms was observed by CLSM and in vivo colonization in Drosophila for co-cultured S. mutans. Individual strains occupied specific domains in co-culture and G09 contributed most to increased co-culture biofilm thickness and colonization in Drosophila. Biofilm formation and acid production displayed distinct signatures in time-lapsed experiments. This study illuminates that intraspecies interactions of S. mutans significantly impacts biofilm acidity, architecture, and colonization.IMPORTANCEThis study sheds light on the complex dynamics of a key contributor to early childhood dental caries (ECC) by exploring intraspecies interactions of different S. mutans strains and their impact on cariogenic traits. Utilizing clinical isolates from children with ECC, the research highlights significant differences in biofilm architecture and acid production in mixed versus single genotype cultures. The findings reveal that co-cultured S. mutans strains exhibit increased cell density and acidity, with individual strains occupying distinct domains. These insights, enhanced by use of time-lapsed confocal laser scanning microscopy and a Drosophila model, offer a deeper understanding of ECC pathogenesis and potential avenues for targeted interventions.