Morphological Transformation Research Articles

Spectroscopic confirmation of the galaxy clusters CARLA J0950+2743 at z=2.363 and CARLA-Ser J0950+2743 at z=2.243

Galaxy clusters are the largest gravitationally bound structures in the Universe and therefore are a powerful tool for studying mass assembly at different epochs. At z$>$2, they provide the unique opportunity to place solid constraints not only on the growth of the dark matter halo, but also on the mechanisms of galaxy quenching and morphological transformation when the Universe was younger than 3.3 Gyr. However, the currently available sample of confirmed $z>2$ clusters remains very limited. We present the spectroscopic confirmation of the galaxy cluster CARLA J0950+2743 at $z=2.363 and a new serendipitously discovered cluster, CARLA-Ser J0950+2743 at $z=2.243 in the same region. We confirm eight star-forming galaxies in the first and five in the second cluster by detecting O ii O iii and $H emission lines. The analysis of an archival X-ray Chandra dataset that covers the cluster position revealed a counterpart with a total luminosity of 0.5-5 keV $ erg s$^ $. Because the depth of the X-ray observations is limited, we cannot distinguish the 1D profile of the source from a point spread function model, but our statistical analysis of the 2D profile favors an extended component that might be associated with a thermal contribution from the intracluster medium. If the extended X-ray emission is due to the hot intracluster medium, the total combined dark matter mass for the two clusters would be $M_ stat sys M_ odot $, assuming a sim 30<!PCT!> contribution from the active galactic nucleus. Our two clusters are therefore interesting targets for studies of the structure growth in the cosmological context. However, future investigation will require deeper high-resolution X-ray and spectroscopic observations to rule out the hypotheses that the emission is entirely due to the active galactic nucleus or that it originates from other contaminating radio galaxies and structures.

NaCl-Responsive Ultrashort Peptide to Trigger Self-Assembly of TPE-Capped Supramolecular Hydrogelator.

With the advantages of less invasiveness and better shape adaptability, in situ-forming hydrogels are desired biomaterials as scaffolds, drug carriers, and so on. Herein, a negatively charged NaCl-responsive ultrashort peptide sequence (EEH) is reported whose electrostatic repulsion can be reduced through the charge-shielding effect. Under physiological conditions, its AIEgen-capped amphiphile TPE-GEEH of low concentration (1 mg/mL) presents NaCl-triggered morphological transformation from micelle to closely packed fiber with enhanced emission, which can be applied to biosense sodium ion (Na+) with high sensitivity and quick response. At a slightly acidic pH, 10 mg/mL TPE-GEEH undergoes sol-gel transition upon addition of NaCl (100 mM) with improved mechanical properties, which should be useful to develop an in situ-forming hydrogel. Overall, our report provides a simple strategy to construct NaCl-responsive assemblies for potential application in biosensors and drug delivery system.

Bioprospecting of Metabolites from Actinomycetes and their Applications.

Actinomycetes are present in various terrestrial and aquatic habitats, predominantly in the soil rhizosphere, encompassing marine and freshwater ecosystems. These microorganisms exhibit characteristics that resemble both bacteria and fungi. Numerous actinomycetes exhibit a mycelial existence and undergo significant morphological transformations. These bacteria are widely recognized as biotechnologically significant microorganisms utilized for the production of secondary metabolites. In all, over 45% of all bioactive microbial metabolites are produced by actinomycetes, which are responsible for producing around 10,000 of them. The majority of actinomycetes exhibit substantial saprophytic characteristics in their natural environment, enabling them to effectively decompose a diverse range of plant and animal waste materials during the process of decomposition. Additionally, these organisms possess a sophisticated secondary metabolic system, which enables them to synthesize almost two-thirds of all naturally occurring antibiotics. Moreover, they can create a diverse array of chemical compounds with medical or agricultural applications, including anticancer, antiparasitic, and antibacterial agents. This review aims to provide an overview of the prominent biotechnological domains in which actinobacteria and their metabolites demonstrate noteworthy applicability. The graphical abstract provides a preview of the primary sections covered in this review. This paper presents a comprehensive examination of the biotechnological applications and metabolites of actinobacteria, highlighting their potential for patent innovations.

Soot particle morphology and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons formation molecular dynamics during diffusion combustion of three pentanol biofuels

Soot particles constitute a major pollutant in engine diffusion combustion, posing a serious threat to human health and the atmospheric environment. The employment of carbon-neutral biofuel, pentanol, in engines contributes to reducing soot emissions; however, its effectiveness is contingent upon the position of the OH functional group. This work investigated the soot morphology and microstructural parameters evolution of three pentanol isomers, and explored the influence mechanism of OH functional group positional isomerism on the entire process of PAHs formation at the atomic level. The results showed that the peak of primary particle size and soot volume fraction in pentanol flames showed a trend of 2-pentanol>3-pentanol>1-pentanol, and the initial formation time of soot in 1-pentanol flame is the latest, and the particle aggregate size is the smallest. The entire process of pentanol isomers soot formation can be divided into four stages: fuel pyrolysis forming initial ring, PAHs growing into initial soot, soot chain growth and structural evolution, soot morphology transformation and maturation. Among the three isomers, 2-pentanol has the fastest initial ring formation rate, the highest peak C-number in the largest molecule, and ultimately forms a more mature fullerene-like structure. 1-pentanol has the slowest initial ring formation rate, the lowest peak C-number in the largest molecule, ultimately forms a lower maturity layered structure. In terms of reaction pathways, H-atom abstraction and dehydroxylation reactions jointly dominate the initial decomposition pathway in 1-pentanol combustion, while in 2-pentanol, dehydroxylation becomes the main initial decomposition pathway due to the high stability of H atoms on β‑carbon. The dehydroxylation reaction tends to generate olefins, promoting the generation of C1-C4 hydrocarbon. The oxygen atom bonded on the α‑carbon site exhibits a stronger carbon fixation ability, and C1-C4 hydrocarbons are more inclined to participate in oxidation to form CO rather than promote the soot production.

Tea/Coffee Sustainable Nanoarchitectures Purify Wastewater.

Transforming spent coffee grounds and tea residues into valuable hierarchical porous materials presents a sustainable solution for environmental remediation due to the low cost, extensive availability, and versatile functionalized interface. Here, we systematically investigated tea polyphenol-mediated morphological transformation of spent coffee grounds to the synthesis of three-dimensional (3D) mesoporous metal-organic framework (MOF)-derived nanoarchitectured carbon composites. We adopted the sustainable cost-effective tea-coffee derivative to remove typical marine micropollutants, such as antibiotic wastewater, radioactive pollutants, and microplastics. This innovative adsorbent shows remarkable efficiency in antibiotic adsorption, achieving up to 99.62% removal of tetracycline (TC), with an impressive maximum adsorption capacity of 373.1 mg/g. It also demonstrates a remarkable ability to remove marine microplastics and radioactive pollutants with immediate nuclear threats and global sanitation and health crisis posed by Fukushima nuclear waste toward the world. The innovative strategy of treating waste with waste highlights economic potential in wastewater treatment.

MRI-Negative Temporal Lobe Epilepsy: A Study of Brain Structure in Adults Using Surface-Based Morphological Features.

This research aimed to delve into the cortical morphological transformations in patients with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-negative temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE-N), seeking to uncover the neuroimaging mechanisms behind these changes. A total of 29 individuals diagnosed with TLE-N and 30 healthy control participants matched by age and sex were selected for the study. Using the surface-based morphometry (SBM) technique, the study analyzed the three-dimensional-T1-weighted MRI scans of the participants' brains. Various cortical structure characteristics, such as thickness, surface area, volume, curvature, and sulcal depth, among other parameters, were measured. When compared with the healthy control group, the TLE-N patients exhibited increased insular cortex thickness in both brain hemispheres. Additionally, there was a notable reduction in the curvature of the piriform cortex (PC) and the insular granular complex within the right hemisphere. In the left hemisphere, the volume of the secondary sensory cortex (OP1/SII) and the third visual area was significantly reduced in the TLE-N group. However, no significant differences were found between the groups regarding cortical surface area and sulcal depth (p < 0.025 for all, corrected by threshold-free cluster enhancement). The study's initial findings suggest subtle morphological changes in the cerebral cortex of TLE-N patients. The SBM technique proved effective in identifying brain regions impacted by epileptic activity. Understanding the microstructural morphology of the cerebral cortex offers insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying TLE.

Parallelisms in the morphology and evolutionary transformations of two bones of the visceral skeleton in fossil and recent freshwater sculpins of the genus Triglopsis (Pisces: Cottidae)

The article considers the morphogenesis of two visceral skeleton bones, which are most important for identification, in five freshwater forms of the genus Triglopsis Girard, 1851. These forms evolved as a result of colonization of fresh waters by marine fishes in different geological periods and continents. On American continent, two fossil species, Triglopsis idahoensis (Smith, 1975) and T. antiquus (Smith, 1975), from the Pliocene Lake Idaho and one recent species T. thompsonii Girard, 1851 from Lake Michigan were studied. On European continent, two freshwater populations of one species T. quadricornis (Linnaeus, 1758) from Lakes Ladoga and Onega were investigated. Comparative analysis of the external features of the preopercular and dentary bones showed that all five studied forms have common characters inherent in the genus Triglopsis. The differences are in the size, shape and orientation of the spines; and hollows of the preopercular-mandibular sensory canal. The fossil species T. idahoensis and T. antiquus have wide, slightly curved preopercle with spines of similar length. Significant differences are found in the morphology of the sensory canal. The most primitive state of this canal is observed in T. antiquus. It is characterized by small size of hollows and wide bone bridges between them. Evolutionary transformations in morphology of the canal in fossil and recent species go in the direction of increasing passage of the canal in the bones. In recent forms, passage of the sensory canal occupies almost the entire width of the bone, which is significantly greater than in fossil species. Geographically remote and isolated fossil and recent forms of the genus Triglopsis, each with its own evolutionary fate, have a single trend of evolutionary transformations of the studied bones. Despite the fact that the lake forms were at different stages of differentiation, evolutionary transformations of the morphology of the studied bones proceed in parallel and in the same direction.

Morphologic transformation of ferrofluid during micropump driving under field control.

The superiority of ferrofluid pumps in the fields of biomedical, life science, energy, and power research has been experimentally demonstrated. However, the mechanisms underlying the morphological transformations of ferrofluid fusion and separation during pump driving are not completely understood. To bridge the gap between the theory and practical applications of ferrofluid pumps, we employed optical methods to record the dynamic morphological transformation of rotating and fixed ferrofluids under different magnetic field polarities, magnetic field distributions, and ferrofluid mass fractions. The magnetic field polarity causes dynamic differences in the fusion-separation process of the ferrofluid but does not affect the volume segmentation of the ferrofluid, which depends on the ratio of the magnetic field intensities. When this ratio deviates from one, the morphology of ferrofluid changes, reducing the pumping efficiency. Compared to external environmental factors, the mass fraction does not change the morphology of the ferrofluid. However, high mass fractions lead to wall-clinging of the ferrofluid, and low mass fractions induce bubbles, both of which detrimentally affect the pumping performance. This study reveals the properties of ferrofluid and the effects of external environmental conditions on the morphological transformation of ferrofluid, providing references for optimizing ferrofluid pumps.

The diversity of evolution behavior between stoichiometric and non-stoichiometric AlTM intermetallics in Mg melt

In this study, Al-5Ti, Al-18Si-5Ti, Al-12Si-2Sc and Al-12Si-1Sc-1Zr alloys, containing the Al3Ti, Ti7Al5Si12, AlSi2Sc2 and AlSi2(Sc, Zr)2 particles, respectively, were introduced into a Mg melt to understand the morphological and structural evolution behaviors of AlTM intermetallic compounds. Deposition layers at the bottom of the Mg melt were obtained due to the particle settlement. Scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction were employed to analyze the phase morphologies and structures of the AlTM intermetallic compounds in the deposition layers. A morphological transformation, characterized by the cracking of particles into fine clusters, was observed in all these AlTM intermetallic compounds, which is promoted by the inward diffusion of Mg atoms. The phase structures of the final particles remained Al3Ti and AlSi2Sc2 when Al-5Ti and Al-12Si-2Sc alloys were introduced into the Mg melt, indicating no structural evolution. However, structural evolutions were detected from Ti7Al5Si12 to Ti5Si4 and from AlSi2(Sc, Zr)2 to SiScZr when they were introduced in the Mg melt. It is hypothesized that the crystal structure, whether stoichiometric or non-stoichiometric, is closely related to the structural evolution behavior of AlTM intermetallic compounds. This work may provide new insights into phase control by introducing one type of metal matrix master alloy into another metal melt.

Formation of CSE-YAP complex drives FOXD3-mediated transition of neurotoxic astrocytes in Parkinson’s disease

Astrocytes, constituting the predominant glial cells in the brain, undergo significant morphological and functional transformations amidst the progression of Parkinson’s disease (PD). A majority of these reactive astrocytes display a neurotoxic phenotype, intensifying inflammatory responses. Nonetheless, the molecular underpinnings steering neurotoxic astrocyte reactivity during PD progression remain mostly uncharted. Here, we uncover the unique role of cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE) in shaping astrocyte reactivity, primarily channeling astrocytes towards a neurotoxic phenotype, thereby escalating neuroinflammation in PD. Single-cell sequencing data drawn from PD patients coupled with RNA sequencing data from MPP+-treated astrocytes, highlighted a marked positive association between increased expression of Cth, the gene that encodes CSE, and neurotoxic astrocyte reactivity. Employing genetic manipulation of Cth in astrocytes, we evidenced that CSE instigates a transition to a neurotoxic state in PD-afflicted astrocytes under in vitro and in vivo settings. Moreover, we identified a CSE-Yes-associated protein (YAP) complex within astrocytes via label-free mass spectrometry. An increased formation of the CSE-YAP complex was found to facilitate the expression of gene patterns tied to neurotoxic astrocytes, driven by the transcription factor, forkhead box protein D3 (FOXD3). Consequently, our work unveils valuable insights into the cell type-specific function of CSE in the brain, and presents FOXD3 as a novel transcription factor influencing astrocyte phenotypes in PD. These findings lay the groundwork for the development of potential strategies intended to manage conditions associated with neuroinflammation.

One-step synthesis of spherical Al3Ta alloy powder by electrolyzing solid Ta2O5 in molten fluorides

Aluminum-tantalum powders are emerging as new raw materials for additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, but their preparation in bulk quantities and in powder form via conventional metallurgical methods is challenging. In this study, we report a one-step synthesis of spherical Al3Ta powder by direct electrolyzing solid Ta2O5 cathode (vs. a graphite anode) in molten Na3AlF6-K3AlF6-AlF3-LiF-Al2O3. Cyclic voltammetry and constant potential electrolysis techniques were employed to characterize the electrochemical reaction process, along with X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for the structural and morphological analyses. The process involves an initial Ta2O5 electro-deoxygenation process, the subsequent electrodeposition of Al3+ on the formed Ta particles and an in-situ alloying process. The innovative use of Ta2O5 cathodes with a novel hierarchical porous structure allows for a controlled transformation of cathode particle morphology and facilitates the rapid generation of nanoscale tantalum particles. Al3+ from the electrolyte is then electrodeposited onto these particles, initiating an in-situ alloying reaction. This is an exothermic process that facilitates the diffusion of aluminum atoms into tantalum, and reduces the interfacial energy promoting the formation of spherical Al3Ta particles. Such powders are in demand for AM techniques. The findings may now guide the way to establishing the electrochemical route for the short-process preparation of other high-temperature alloy powders.

TMOD-05. GLIOMA-ASSOCIATED OLIGODENDROCYTE PROGENITOR CELLS’ DYNAMIC PATTERNS SUGGEST FUNCTIONAL ADAPTATIONS DURING GLIOMA PROGRESSION IN A UNIQUE MOUSE MODEL

Abstract Gliomas account for more than one-third of brain tumors in children, with high fatality rate despite aggressive adjuvant treatment. Two-thirds of survivors suffer from health conditions due to the toxicity of conventional therapies. Notably, gliomas with the BRAFV600E mutation, occurring in ~20% of all glioma cases, are difficult to treat and have a high risk for progression, especially when combined with CDKN2A deletion. The mechanisms for glioma progression remain unclear and unraveling them could lead to therapies that inhibit glioma progression, preventing high-grade gliomas. Objectives: To gain mechanistic insights into glioma progression and exploit therapeutically for preventing progression. We developed two novel mouse models for BRAFV600E mutant progressive gliomas – one at high genetic risk for progression and one at intermediate genetic risk for progression. Expression of genetic alterations were induced by injecting compound transgenic mice with adenovirus-Cre. Our new mouse models therefore more faithfully recapitulated the genetic changes accompanying glioma formation and progression from low- to high-grade than earlier mouse models which used the RCAS system to overexpress the oncogene (PMCID: PMC11112369 ). Glioma formation was followed non-invasively by magnetic resonance imaging. Single cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics were performed and immunofluorescence was used for validation (PMCID: PMC10619673 ). We present new data showing that animal subject survival is significantly shorter in the high risk model than in the low risk model. Our two models with distinct latency can be used for preclinical studies and studies of the changes associated with progression, including in the glioma microenvironment. Analyses revealed temporal, functional, and spatial changes in glioma-associated oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (GA-OPCs) at distinct stages (initiation, expansion, progression) and grades. Our findings that GA-OPCs closely interact with glioma cells and their morphological transformation as gliomas progress, suggest changing functions, including potential roles in phagocytosis and immunomodulation. Understanding the unclear role of glioma microenvironment OPCs in promoting glioma progression could reveal an Achilles heel for targeted therapies.

Anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic and morphological impact of phycocyanin on ultraviolet radiation irradiated human fibroblast cells

Background Recently, the use of natural products as skin photoprotective agents has been in increasing demand. This study investigated the bioactivity of phycocyanin (PC) extracted from Spirulina sp. on human skin fibroblast cell line (CCD-966SK), specifically focusing on apoptosis, necrosis, anti-inflammatory effects, and enzymatic reactions. Methods The first step of this study was cyanobacterial cell culture and the extraction and purification of PC. After that, CCD-966SK cell line was cultivated under normal and UV irradiation. The bioassays included the cytotoxicity measurement, cell viability assay, morphology determination, tumour necrosis factor-α and Interleukin 6 release assays, enzyme activity for superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase as well as malondialdehyde content and the cell-free extract of cyanobacterial stains were assessed. Results The cell viability results showed that as the concentration of the PC increased, the viability of CCD-966SK cell line was reduced, which suggested that the effect of PC on the growth of fibroblast cells was dose dependent. The morphological results indicated that presence of PC in the fibroblast cell culture medium led to a transformation in cell morphology from spindle-shaped to spherical. PC released anti-inflammatory IL-6 and TNF-a cytokines, indicating high inflammation resistance. Furthermore, the findings revealed that PC dramatically reduced the release of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and malondialdehyde from inflammatory cells, with the reduction being more apparent at increasing doses. Conclusions In conclusion, the results indicated that PC inhibit the CCD-966SK cell line by membrane destructor, which led to the increase the leakage of cell constituent and increase enzymes activities.

Silicon Carbide Nanoparticle-Enabled Strengthening of Aluminum and Copper Resistance Spot Welds

Resistance spot welding (RSW) is a widely employed technique for joining aluminum and copper alloys, valued for its efficiency and effectiveness. However, the mechanical properties of the resulting welds, particularly their tensile strength and resistance to deformation, often fall short of industrial demands. This study explores the incorporation of Silicon Carbide nanoparticles (SiC NPs) as a method to enhance the mechanical performance of RSW joints in aluminum and copper alloys. Experimental results demonstrate that the addition of SiC NPs significantly improves tensile strength, with gains primarily attributed to grain refinement and the formation of dispersion-strengthening mechanisms. Advanced characterization techniques, including Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and EDS analysis, provide detailed insights into the morphological and structural transformations within the weld zones. These findings underscore the potential of SiC NPs to not only enhance the strength and durability of RSW joints but also to advance the overall quality and reliability of welding processes in aluminum and copper alloys. This research opens new avenues for the application of nanoparticle reinforcement in industrial welding, offering a pathway to achieve superior joint performance.

Effect of Chloride Ions on the Electrochemical Performance of Magnesium Metal‐Organic‐Frameworks‐Based Semi‐Solid Electrolytes

AbstractThe majority of research on magnesium (Mg) electrolytes has focused on enhancing reversible Mg deposition, often employing chloride‐containing electrolytes. However, there is a notable gap in the literature regarding the influence of chloride ions in semi‐solid Mg electrolytes. In this study, we systematically explore the impact of chloride ions on Mg deposition/dissolution on a copper (Cu) anode using a semi‐solid electrolyte composed of Mg‐based mixed metal‐organic frameworks, MgCl2 and Mg[TFSI]2. We separate the Mg deposition/dissolution process from changes in the anode's surface morphology In this respect, the morphological and compositional transformations in the electrolyte and electrode following galvanostatic cycling are meticulously investigated. Initial potential cycling reveals the feasibility of Mg deposition/dissolution on Cu electrodes, albeit with reduced reversibility in subsequent cycles. Extending the upper potential limit to 4.0 V vs. Mg/Mg2+ enhances Mg dissolution, attributed to chloride ions facilitating Cu surface dissolution. Our findings provide insights into optimizing semi‐solid electrolytes for advanced Magnesium battery technologies.

Innovative Electrochemical Quantification of Brilliant Blue Dye with Polyvinylpyrrolidone-Stabilized MoS₂

In this study, the synthesis of a composite material such as molybdenum disulphide/poly vinylene pyrrolidone (MoS2/PVP) using a simple hydrothermal method is showcased. Also discovered its capability for electrochemical detection of a well-known food dye, brilliant blue (BB), which has not been previously reported. The incorporation of PVP into MoS2 significantly enhanced the electrochemical stability of the composite for the detection of brilliant blue. The comprehensive analysis of the material in its original state provided a thorough understanding of its structural and morphological properties, both prior to and following the incorporation of PVP. The modifications resulting from the action of PVP intercalation were intriguing and sufficiently capable of causing a considerable impact on the electrochemical output of the entire investigation. The significant transformation in morphology, from nanoflowers to a sheet-like structure, in the presence of PVP is remarkable. The MoS2/PVP coated glassy carbon electrode (MoS2/PVP/GCE) demonstrated the broadest linear range for BB determination compared to any previously reported results, spanning from 0.8 μM to 1150.0 μM, with a limit of detection (LOD) value of 9.0 nm. The manufactured electrode has significant repeatability and reproducibility. The selectivity analysis highlights the sensor's ability to accurately and specifically detect the target analyte, even in the presence of potential interfering substances. The evaluation of MoS2/PVP/GCE in several authentic samples demonstrates the sensor's dependability in detecting BB in real-time situations.

The physicochemical properties of oat starch-fatty acid complexes and application in Lactiplantibacillus plantarum microencapsulation

Oat starch (OS) is the primary component in oat kernels, playing a crucial role in the sensory attributes and functionality of oat products. This study aimed to improve the functional properties of OS by forming oat starch-fatty acid complexes (OS-FAs). Four OS-FAs were prepared using OS and different FAs (stearic acid, palmitic acid, myristic acid, and oleic acid), resulting in OS-S, OS-P, OS-M, and OS-O, respectively. The chemical, functional, and structural properties of these OS-FAs were analyzed and compared with unmodified OS. OS-M was selected for further application in the fabrication of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) microcapsules, in combination with sodium alginate and chitosan. The results showed that as the FA carbon chain length and the degree of saturation decreased, the degree of substitution (DS), total resistant starch (RS), water absorption capacity and oil absorption capacity (WAC and OAC), emulsification activity and stability (EA and ES), solubility (SB), and swelling capacity (SC) of the OS-FAs all significantly improved (p<0.05). The OS-M exhibited the highest DS (0.055), total RS (11.11%), WAC (361.64%), OAC (94.34%), EA (60.87%), ES (61.63%), and best SB (41.22% at 37°C) and SC (6.13% at 37°C). The FTIR analysis confirmed that the substitution reactions occurred during complex formation, while the basic starch structure was maintained. XRD and SEM analyses revealed a transformation in crystal morphology from type A to type V, along with a porous network structure and increased specific surface area. Starting from approximately 9.40 log CFU/g, the viability of L. plantarum in OS-M microcapsules was retained at 6.94 and 8.85 log CFU/g in wet and dry capsules, respectively, after simulated gastrointestinal digestion, outperforming microcapsules without OS-M. Additionally, OS-M enhanced L. plantarum protection during 4-week storage at -20°C (2.91 log CFU/g), 4°C (8.81 log CFU/g), and 25°C (6.70 log CFU/g). These findings suggest that modifying OS by forming OS-FA complexes improves its functionality and that OS-FAs hold potential for use in probiotic encapsulation to enhance bacterial viability.

Precise Regulations at the Subcellular Level through Intracellular Polymerization, Assembly, and Transformation.

A living cell is an intricate machine that creates subregions to operate cell functions effectively. Subcellular dysfunction has been identified as a potential druggable target for successful drug design and therapy. The treatments based on intracellular polymerization, self-assembly, or transformation offer various advantages, including enhanced blood circulation of monomers, long-term drug delivery pharmacokinetics, low drug resistance, and the ability to target deep tissues and organelles. In this review, we discuss the latest developments of intracellular synthesis applied to precisely control cellular functions. First, we discuss the design and applications of endogenous and exogenous stimuli-triggered intracellular polymerization, self-assembly, and dynamic morphology transformation of biomolecules at the subcellular level. Second, we highlight the benefits of these strategies applied in cancer diagnosis and treatment and modulating cellular states or cell metabolism of living systems. Finally, we conclude the recent progress in this field, discuss future perspectives, analyze the challenges of the intracellular functional reactions for regulation, and find future opportunities.

Gas-Controlled Self-Assembly of Metallacycle-Cored Supramolecular Star Polymer with Tunable Antibacterial Activity.

Herein, a three-armed amphiphilic metallacycle-cored star supramolecular polymer (Por-MOM-PDMAEMA) has been designed and synthesized via highly efficient post-assembly polymerization. This star polymer is further self-assembled into nanoparticles of different sizes depending upon the experimental conditions. The gas-controlled morphology transformation and tunable antibacterial activities of Por-MOM-PDMAEMAis systematically investigated and compared with metallacycle (MOM). The superior antibacterial activity of Por-MOM-PDMAEMA against multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa implies that the presence of photodynamic photosensitizer (Por) and cationic polymer chain will significantly enhance antibactericidal activity, which is mainly attributed to the synergistic effect of photosensitizer and polymer chain linked in one metallacycle core. By leveraging the unique properties of metallacycle and their dynamic response to gaseous stimuli, the antibacterial properties of the Por-MOM-PDMAEMA can be finely tuned in response to gas triggers.

JWST Imaging of Edge-on Protoplanetary Disks. III. Drastic Morphological Transformation Across the Mid-infrared in Oph163131

We present JWST broadband images of the highly inclined protoplanetary disk SSTc2d J163131.2-242627 (Oph163131) from 2.0 to 21 μm. The images show a remarkable evolution in disk structure with wavelength, quite different from previous JWST observations of other edge-on disks. At 2.0 and 4.4 μm, Oph163131 shows two scattering surfaces separated by a dark lane, typical of highly inclined disks. Starting at 7.7 μm, however, (1) the two linear nebulosities flanking the dark lane disappear; (2) the brighter nebula tracing the disk upper surface transitions into a compact central source distinctly larger than the JWST point-spread function and whose intrinsic size increases with wavelength; and (3) patches of extended emission appear at low latitudes, and at surprisingly large radii nearly twice that of the scattered light seen with Hubble Space Telescope and NIRCam, and of the gas. We interpret the compact central source as thermal emission from the star and the inner disk that is not seen directly, but which instead is able to progressively propagate to greater distances at longer wavelengths. The lack of sharp-edged structures in the extended patchy emission argues against the presence of shocks and suggests photoexcitation or stochastic heating of material smoothly flowing away from the star along the disk surface. Finally, the dark lane thickness decreases significantly between 0.6 and 4.4 μm, which indicates that the surface layers of Oph163131 lack grains larger than 1 μm.