Biodegradable Solid Polymer Electrolytes from the Discarded Cataractous Eye Protein Isolate

The protein extracted from the discarded eye lenses postcataract surgery, referred to as the cataractous eye protein isolate (CEPI), is employed as a polymer matrix for the construction of solid polymer electrolyte species (SPEs). SPEs are expected to be inexpensive, conductive, and mechanically stable in order to be economically and commercially viable. Environmentally, these materials should be biodegradable and nontoxic. Taking these factors into account, we investigated the possibility of using a discarded protein as a polymer matrix for SPEs. Natural compounds sorbitol and sinapic acid (SA) are used as the plasticizer and cross-linker, respectively, to tune the mechanical as well as electrochemical properties. The specific material formed is demonstrated to have high ionic conductivity ranging from ∼2 × 10-2 to ∼8 × 10-2 S cm-1. Without the addition of any salt, the ionic conductivity of sorbitol-plasticized non-cross-linked CEPI is ∼7.5 × 10-2 S cm-1. Upon the addition of NaCl, the conductivity is enhanced to ∼8 × 10-1 S cm-1. This study shows the possibility of utilizing a discarded protein CEPI as an alternative polymer matrix with further potential for the construction of tunable, flexible, recyclable, biocompatible, and biodegradable SPEs for flexible green electronics and biological devices.

Cell Penetrability of a γ-Crystallin Peptide Fragment from the Discarded Cataractous Eye Emulsion

The efficiency of the intracellular transport of medication and target specificity is frequently hampered by biological obstacles. The potential for therapeutic use of peptide fragments from naturally occurring proteins is promising, as peptides exhibit high selectivity due to several possibilities of interaction with their target. Certain peptide sequences, often referred to as cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), are those that can penetrate cell membranes. Our goal is to find these sequences in the discarded postcataractery surgery emulsion known as the cataractous eye protein isolate (CEPI). One peptide fragment from this discarded protein has been identified to be a potential CPP based on the similarities with other well-known CPPs. Cell membrane penetrability and cytotoxicity of the peptide have been investigated. Fibroblast cells were incubated with the fluorescently labeled peptide and were observed under fluorescence as well as under confocal microscopy. It was found that the peptide possesses a cell-penetrating ability.

Surface modification of polydimethylsiloxane by the cataractous eye protein isolate

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), even though widely used in microfluidic applications, its hydrophobic nature restricts its utility in some cases. To address this, PDMS may be used in conjunction with a hydrophilic material. Herein, the PDMS surface is modified by plasma treatment followed by cross-linking with the cataractous eye protein isolate (CEPI). CEPI-PDMS composites are prepared at three pH and the effects of CEPI on the chemical, physical, and electrical properties of PDMS are extensively investigated. The cross-linking between PDMS and the protein are confirmed by FTIR, and the contact angle measurements indicate the improved hydrophilic nature of the composite films as compared to PDMS. Atomic Force Microscopy results demonstrate that the surface roughness is enhanced by the incorporation of the protein and is a function of the pH. The effective elastic modulus of the composites is improved by the incorporation of protein into the PDMS matrix. Measurements of the dielectric properties of these composites indicate that they behave as capacitors at lower frequency range while demonstrating resistive characteristics at higher frequency. These composites provide preliminary ideas in developing flexible devices for potential applications in diverse areas such as energy storage materials, and thermo-elective wireless switching devices.

Descriptive epidemiology of smothering in Australian commercial free-range layer hen farms

Since the early 2000 s the practice of free-range egg production has increased in developed countries, partly driven by consumer perception that free-range housing is better for hen welfare. While poultry in free-range systems have more behavioural opportunities compared with poultry in caged systems, free-range systems are associated with greater frequencies of infectious disease, predation and 'smothering', a condition where birds pile on top of one another with death occurring due to suffocation. Although the frequency of smothering deaths in Australian free-range layer poultry is anecdotally high, there is a lack of empirical evidence quantifying smothering cause-specific mortality rates and identifying factors that place birds at higher risk of death from smothering. This was a prospective cohort study of poultry flocks managed by three commercial free-range layer organisations in Eastern Australia. Flocks were enrolled into the study from 1 January 2019 to 29 March 2021 and were followed until the end of lay or until the end of the study on 31 March 2022, whichever occurred first. Throughout the follow-up period flock managers provided production details for each flock and details of smothering events using custom-designed logbooks.A total of 84 flocks were enrolled in the study: 32 from Organisation 1, 35 from Organisation 2 and 17 from Organisation 3. The number of birds per flock ranged from 16,000 to 45,000. The total mortality rate was 1131 deaths per 10,000 bird-years. Smothering mortality rate across the three organisations was 183 (minimum 133, maximum 223) deaths per 10,000 bird-years at risk. Smothering accounted for around 16% (minimum 9%, maximum 22%) of all deaths.We identified no distinctive temporal pattern in daily smothering risk as a function of either the number of days since placement or calendar date. The locations of smothering events in sheds and in the outdoor range were not consistent, with relatively large numbers of smothering events occurring in specific locations for some sheds but not others. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the largest prospective study of smothering mortality in commercial free-range layer flocks conducted to date. Estimates of smothering incidence rate and how that varies within and between flocks and organisations over time provides a critically important benchmark for further investigations into this substantial area of productivity loss.

A new approach for accurate determination of particle sizes in microfluidic impedance cytometry

In microfluidic impedance cytometry, the change in impedance is recorded as an individual cell passes through a channel between electrodes deposited on its walls, and the particle size is inferred from the amplitude of the impedance signal using calibration. However, because the current density is nonuniform between electrodes of finite width, there could be an error in the particle size measurement because of uncertainty about the location of the particle in the channel cross section. Here, a correlation is developed relating the particle size to the signal amplitude and the velocity of the particle through the channel. The latter is inferred from the time interval between the two extrema in the impedance curve as the particle passes through a channel with cross-sectional dimensions of 50 μm (width) × 30 μm (height) with two pairs of parallel facing electrodes. The change in impedance is predicted using 3D COMSOL finite-element simulations, and a theoretical correlation that is independent of particle size is formulated to correct the particle diameter for variations in the cross-sectional location. With this correlation, the standard deviation in the experimental data is reduced by a factor of two to close to the standard deviation reported in the manufacturer specifications.

First Observation of Multiple Transverse Wobbling Bands of Different Kinds in ^{183}Au

We report the first observation of two wobbling bands in ^{183}Au, both of which were interpreted as the transverse wobbling (TW) band but with different behavior of their wobbling energies as a function of spin. It increases (decreases) with spin for the positive (negative) parity configuration. The crucial evidence for the wobbling nature of the bands, dominance of the E2 component in the ΔI=1 transitions between the partner bands, is provided by the simultaneous measurements of directional correlation from the oriented states ratio and the linear polarization of the γ rays. Particle rotor model calculations with triaxial deformation reproduce the experimental data well. A value of spin, I_{m}, has been determined for the observed TW bands below which the wobbling energy increases and above which it decreases with spin. The nucleus ^{183}Au is, so far, the only nucleus in which both the increasing and the decreasing parts are observed and thus gives the experimental evidence of the complete transverse wobbling phenomenon.

Shape Coexistence at Zero Spin in ^{64}Ni Driven by the Monopole Tensor Interaction

The low-spin structure of the semimagic ^{64}Ni nucleus has been considerably expanded: combining four experiments, several 0^{+} and 2^{+} excited states were identified below 4.5 MeV, and their properties established. The Monte Carlo shell model accounts for the results and unveils an unexpectedly complex landscape of coexisting shapes: a prolate 0^{+} excitation is located at a surprisingly high energy (3463 keV), with a collective 2^{+} state 286 keV above it, the first such observation in Ni isotopes. The evolution in excitation energy of the prolate minimum across the neutron N=40 subshell gap highlights the impact of the monopole interaction and its variation in strength with N.

Single Sitting Surgery for Concomitant Hydatid Cyst of Lung and Liver: A Case Report

Hydatid disease is one of the diseases that have been discovered in the ancient times. Liver and lung are the most commonly affected organs, though it can involve any organs. Hydatid disease involving both the liver and the lung is reported about 10% of the cases. Here we report a case of 34 year old male presented with upper abdominal pain and intermittent fever for 3 months admitted in October 2016. His chest radiograph and computed tomography scan revealed large cystic lesion at right lung and another similar large lesion in the right lobe of liver. Echinococcus antibody was found positive. We treated him surgically. Histopathology reports confirmed concomitant hydatid cyst of both the lung and the liver.

Evidence for Rigid Triaxial Deformation in ^{76}Ge from a Model-Independent Analysis

An extensive, model-independent analysis of the nature of triaxial deformation in ^{76}Ge, a candidate for neutrinoless double-beta (0νββ) decay, was carried out following multistep Coulomb excitation. Shape parameters deduced on the basis of a rotational-invariant sum-rule analysis provided considerable insight into the underlying collectivity of the ground-state and γ bands. Both sequences were determined to be characterized by the same β and γ deformation parameter values. In addition, compelling evidence for low-spin, rigid triaxial deformation in ^{76}Ge was obtained for the first time from the analysis of the statistical fluctuations of the quadrupole asymmetry deduced from the measured E2 matrix elements. These newly determined shape parameters are important input and constraints for calculations aimed at providing, with suitable accuracy, the nuclear matrix elements relevant to 0νββ.

Solid Pseudopapillary Tumor of the Pancreas: A Case Report

Solid pseudopapillary tumors (SPT) of the pancreas are rare neoplasms of the pancreas accounting for only 1-2% of all pancreatic neoplasms, often detected initially on imaging. Its histogenesis is still uncertain and it has a low-grade malignant potential but excellent post-surgical curative rates and rare metastasis. Pathological and/or cytological evaluation still remains the gold standard in reaching a definitive diagnosis. It occurs most commonly in young females. We report a case of solid pseudopapillary tumor in the head of the pancreas in a 20 years old female admitted in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh on 5th December 2015. Whipple's operation was done as a definitive treatment.

Incidence of contamination of live bird markets in Bangladesh with influenza A virus and subtypes H5, H7 and H9

In the absence of robust active surveillance of avian influenza viruses (AIV) affecting poultry in South Asian countries, monitoring of live bird markets (LBMs) can be an alternative. In a longitudinal study of 32 LBM, five environments were sampled as follows: market floor, stall floor, slaughter area, poultry holding cage and water used for meat processing. Samples were taken monthly for 5 months, September 2013-January 2014. Incidence rates (IRs) of LBM contamination with AIV and its subtypes H5, H7 and H9 were assessed. In 10 of the LBM selected, biosecurity measures had been implemented through FAO interventions: the other 22 were non-intervened. Standard procedures were applied to detect AIV and three subtypes in pooled samples (1:5). An LBM was considered positive for AIV or a subtype if at least one of the pooled samples tested positive. The incidence rates of LBM contamination with AIV, H5, H7 and H9 were 0.194 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.136-0.276), 0.031 (95% CI 0.013-0.075), 0 and 0.175 (95% CI 0.12-0.253) per LBM-month at risk, respectively. The log IR ratio between the FAO-intervened and non-intervened LBM for contamination with AIV was -0.329 (95% CI -1.052 to -0.394, p = .372), 0.598 (95% CI -1.593 to 2.789, p = .593) with subtype H5 and -0.500 (95% CI -1.249 to 0.248, p = .190) with subtype H9, indicating no significant difference. The results obtained suggest that both H5 and H9 were circulating in LBM in Bangladesh in the second half of 2013. The incidence of contamination with H9 was much higher than with H5.

Ubiquitination and regulation of AURKA identifies a hypoxia-independent E3 ligase activity of VHL

The hypoxia-regulated tumor-suppressor von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) is an E3 ligase that recognizes its substrates as part of an oxygen-dependent prolyl hydroxylase (PHD) reaction, with hypoxia-inducible factor α (HIFα) being its most notable substrate. Here we report that VHL has an equally important function distinct from its hypoxia-regulated activity. We find that Aurora kinase A (AURKA) is a novel, hypoxia-independent target for VHL ubiquitination. In contrast to its hypoxia-regulated activity, VHL mono-, rather than poly-ubiquitinates AURKA, in a PHD-independent reaction targeting AURKA for degradation in quiescent cells, where degradation of AURKA is required to maintain the primary cilium. Tumor-associated variants of VHL differentiate between these two functions, as a pathogenic VHL mutant that retains intrinsic ability to ubiquitinate HIFα is unable to ubiquitinate AURKA. Together, these data identify VHL as an E3 ligase with important cellular functions under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions.

Fission barrier of superheavy nuclei and persistence of shell effects at high spin: cases of 254No and 220Th

We report on the first measurement of the fission barrier height in a heavy shell-stabilized nucleus. The fission barrier height of 254No is measured to be Bf=6.0±0.5  MeV at spin 15ℏ and, by extrapolation, Bf=6.6±0.9  MeV at spin 0ℏ. This information is deduced from the measured distribution of entry points in the excitation energy versus spin plane. The same measurement is performed for 220Th and only a lower limit of the fission barrier height can be determined: Bf(I)>8  MeV. Comparisons with theoretical fission barriers test theories that predict properties of superheavy elements.

Isolation, culture optimization and physico-chemical characterization of laccase enzyme from Pleurotus fossulatus

Pleurotus fossulatus (Cooke) Sace is member of oyster mushroom can produced extracellular laccase (benzenediol: oxygen oxidoreductase; EC 1.10.3.2) in submerged fermentation. To analyze the optimum production for laccase P. fossulatus was cultured both in stationary and shaking condition in different media. Partial purification of laccase was done after 0-80% ammonium sulphate precipitation, followed by DEAE (Diethylaminoethyl) Sephadex (A-50) anion exchange chromatography. Potato-sucrose peptone (PSP) medium and Potato-dextrose (PD) medium showed highest laccase production in shaking and stationary conditions, respectively. Though the time required for optimum laccase production in stationary condition was much more than the shaking condition but the amount of laccase was about 2.75t greater in former condition. The laccase produced in stationary condition was more stable than the enzyme produced in shaking condition. The partially purified enzyme showed highest affinity towards o-dianisidine than guaiacol and ABTS (2,2'-Azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) as evidenced by their K(m). The physico-chemical properties of the laccase suggested the significance of this enzyme in industrial applications.

Genetic analyses of ribosomal loci of Anopheles minimus species from north east India

Anopheles minimus is one of the major vectors for transmission of malaria disease in north eastern (NE) region of India. The minimus species complex of Minimus subgroup of Myzomyia series of anophelines were studied in malaria affected states--Assam and Arunachal Pradesh (AP) of NE India. Ribosomal DNA markers--second internal transcribed spacer (ITS2) and third domain (D3) of 28S gene were used to characterize An. minimus species. Sequence homogeneity was observed in D3 sequences of An.minimus specimens throughout both the states. However, a transversion in ITS2 sequence of single specimen collected from Assam-Meghalaya border areas illustrates possibility of intra population polymorphism in ITS2 sequence within the geographical region.

Dengue outbreak in an Indo-Myanmar boarder area: epidemiological aspects and risk factors

During October 2007, a large outbreak of suspected dengue fever (DF) was reported in Moreh township, Manipur: the first widespread outbreak in Northeast India. A cross sectional study was carried out in Moreh. The information on outbreak was collected and then described in time, place and person characteristics to arrive at aetiological hypotheses. Two hundred and eighty two serum samples were collected. Ninety one samples were reported positive for acute infection with dengue virus. Co-circulation of all the four dengue virus serotypes (1-4) and concurrent infection of 2 & 3, 1 & 3, and 1 & 4 serotypes was found. Predominant clinical features of the patients were fever (100%), headache (39%), vomiting (9.8%) and joint pain (4.16%). Haemorrhagic manifestation was recorded in one patient who subsequently died. Entomological surveys revealed profuse breeding of Aedes mosquitoes in all the affected municipal wards with high HI (37.5-71.43%), CI (53.84-86.95%) and BI (80-208.33%). Presence of IgM antibody, co-circulation of all the serotypes and concurrent infection with more than one serotype in the same individual confirmed the outbreak due to dengue virus infection. Preventive and control measures undertaken following the epidemiological investigation helped in controlling the outbreak.

Fine-grained lower limit of entropic uncertainty in the presence of quantum memory

The limitation on obtaining precise outcomes of measurements performed on two noncommuting observables of a particle as set by the uncertainty principle in its entropic form can be reduced in the presence of quantum memory. We derive a new entropic uncertainty relation based on fine graining, which leads to an ultimate limit on the precision achievable in measurements performed on two incompatible observables in the presence of quantum memory. We show that our derived uncertainty relation tightens the lower bound set by entropic uncertainty for members of the class of two-qubit states with maximally mixed marginals, while accounting for the recent experimental results using maximally entangled pure states and mixed Bell-diagonal states. An implication of our uncertainty relation on the security of quantum key generation protocols is pointed out.

Gamma-ray emission probabilities in the decay of (177m)Lu

γ-Ray emission probabilities from the decay of the long-lived (T(1/2)=160.44d) isomeric state in (177m)Lu were measured with planar (LEPS) and coaxial Ge detectors. The isomer γ-ray and β(-)-decay branching intensities were also determined. Measurements were carried out at low absolute efficiencies in order to minimize coincidence summing losses. The results are compared with the previous measurements.

First evidence of chikungunya virus infection in Assam, Northeast India

During June-September 2008, an illness characterized by fever, headache and joint pain was reported in Assam state, northeast India. It presented characteristic features resembling chikungunya or dengue virus infection based on clinical symptoms. Dengue and chikungunya IgM antibody was detected in 10.0% (28/280) and 3.6% (10/280) patients respectively. The chikungunya positive patients did not travel to and from any endemic region confirming indigenous transmission. Persistent arthralgia and hearing loss has been observed in a recovered patient. Entomological surveys revealed the presence of vectors viz. Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. This is the maiden report of chikungunya occurrence in Northeast India.

Collective oblate rotation at high spins in neutron-rich 180Hf

We report on experimental evidence for collective oblate rotation becoming favored at high spins in a rigid, well-deformed, axially symmetric nucleus. Excited states established up to spin 20variant Planck's over 2pi in 180Hf are consistent with predictions that nucleon alignments would favor oblate over prolate shapes at high spins in neutron-rich Hf isotopes. The results highlight the influence of valence orbitals on the interplay between nucleon alignments and nuclear shapes and provide a rare example of independent particle dynamics in competing potential wells.