Phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) is a crucial tumor suppressor protein with frequent mutations and alterations. Although protein therapeutics are already integral to numerous medical fields, their potential remains nascent. This study aimed to investigate the impact of stable, unphosphorylated recombinant human full-length PTEN and its truncated variants, regarding their tumor suppression activity with multiwalled-carbon nanotubes (MW-CNTs) as vehicles for their delivery in breast cancer cells (T-47D, ZR-75-1, and MCF-7). The cloning, overexpression, and purification of PTEN variants were achieved from E. coli, followed by successful binding to CNTs. Cell incubation with protein-functionalized CNTs revealed that the full-length PTEN-CNTs significantly inhibited cancer cell growth and stimulated apoptosis in ZR-75-1 and MCF-7 cells, while truncated PTEN fragments on CNTs had a lesser effect. The N-terminal fragment, despite possessing the active site, did not have the same effect as the full length PTEN, emphasizing the necessity of interaction with the C2 domain in the C-terminal tail. Our findings highlight the efficacy of full-length PTEN in inhibiting cancer growth and inducing apoptosis through the alteration of the expression levels of key apoptotic markers. In addition, the utilization of carbon nanotubes as a potent PTEN protein delivery system provides valuable insights for future applications in in vivo models and clinical studies. Full article

The medieval textiles collection of the National Museum of Art of Romania (MNAR) has been in place since 1865 and nowadays preserves about 1000 medieval and pre-modern weavings and embroideries. These extremely valuable objects, dated between the 14th and the 19th centuries, are mainly religious embroidered garments and veils with special significance in the Byzantine li-turgy. Ecclesiastical embroideries of Byzantine tradition are characterized by a complex technique: metallic threads with a silk core, metallic wires and coloured silk threads are couched over padding on layers of silk and cellulosic supports so as to create relief through light reflection. The silk sup-ports and the sewing threads are coloured, mainly in red, blue, green and yellow hues, and analytical investigations of the dyes used in embroideries preserved in the MNAR, in the Putna and Sucevița Monasteries, have been released in previous studies by the corresponding author. The present work continues the approach with research into dyes in about 25 aëres and epitaphioi from the MNAR collection. Considering their privileged function in the liturgical ritual, these luxurious pieces embroidered with silver, gilded silver or coloured silk threads and decorated with pearls, sequins or semi-precious stones are the most faithful description of the stylistic and technological evolution of the art of post-Byzantine embroidery in the Romanian provinces. The data resulting from the present research will improve the knowledge regarding this topic. Dye analysis was performed by liquid chromatography with diode array detection, while fibres were characterized by infrared spectroscopy (with attenuated total reflectance) and optical microscopy. The biological sources identified—carminic acid-based dyes, redwood, dyer’s broom, weld, indigo-based dyes––will be discussed in correspondence with their use in the embroidery technique: support, lining and embroidery threads, together with other sources previously reported on Byzantine embroideries in Romanian collections, and in similar objects preserved at Holy Mount Athos. Full article

The aim of this paper is to understand the long-COVID impact on cultural heritage organisations, and future research needed. COVID-19 was disruptive to cultural heritage socioeconomic activities across the world during 2020 and 2021. Whilst government intervention and changes from physical to digital engagement generally prevailed, the long-COVID impact on cultural heritage organisations, their people and users, buildings, and collections remains unknown. The extent, also, to which financing, curating, visiting, and volunteering patterns have changed is uncertain. Following the pandemic closures and associated support, cultural heritage organisations are facing continuing economic, social, political, environmental, technological, and organisational culture pressures. This research examines the existing academic literature, sector publications, annual reports and associated visitor information to understand whether cultural heritage organisations have long-COVID, whether they can survive another pandemic, and what further research is needed to be better prepared. Four case studies from the UK look at the visitor and financial impacts of COVID-19 on the British Library, the London Transport Museum, The Theatre Royal Drury Lane, and Kensington Palace. This paper contributes to heritage research by providing a deeper understanding of the impact that COVID-19 had on heritage, and how to proactively plan for similar future disruptions. The impact themes are show that change did not result in a new normal but in the need for a new space, consisting of blended space (physical and digital), mixed space (indoors and outdoors), and community of practice space (isolated or cross-sector networking space). The literature highlights the significance of the sector coming together during the pandemic to share knowledge and provide support through its networks. It also highlights how important it is for such unity not to be lost but to be harnessed to support ongoing organisational sustainability and better preparedness for future crises. Finally, future research suggestions are proposed grouped into social, digital, financial, and operational research themes. Full article

In this article, an L-shaped three-dimensional (3D) braided piezoelectric composite energy harvester (BPCEH) is established, which consists of an elastic layer composed of a 3D braided composite, flanked by upper and lower layers of piezoelectric material and two tuning mass blocks. Glass fiber and epoxy resin are used to produce a 3D braided composite. This L-shaped 3D BPCEH is mechanically designable and can be adapted to different work requirements by varying the braided angle of the 3D braided composite layer. The material parameters of 3D braided composites are predicted for different braided angles by means of a representative volume element (RVE). Electro-mechanical coupled vibration equations for the L-shaped 3D BPCEH are established. The impact of braided angles on voltage and power output is discussed in this article. Simulations using finite element method are conducted to analyze the voltage and power output responses at various braided angles. In addition, the effects of the mass of mass block B and the length of the beam on the output performance of the L-shaped 3D BPCEH are analyzed. Full article

In the present study, we conducted a placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group comparison trial in which an extract of Cordyceps militaris (CM) mycelium was administered to long-distance runners for 16 weeks during the pre-season training period and blood test markers for anemia were investigated. The results indicated that the change rates of serum ferritin levels were moderately increased in the CM group (n = 11) but decreased in the placebo group (n = 11) during the study period, and the levels were significantly increased in the CM group compared with those in the placebo group at 4 weeks and 8 weeks after the test food intake (p < 0.05). Moreover, the change rates of hemoglobin and hematocrit were significantly increased in the CM group compared with those in the placebo group at 8 weeks after the test food intake (p < 0.05). These observations suggest that the intake of test food containing Cordyceps militaris mycelium extract is expected to effectively maintain the hemoglobin and hematocrit levels in long-distance runners, possibly via the suppression of the decrease in iron storage, which is reflected by serum ferritin, during pre-season training. Furthermore, the levels of creatine kinase were increased above the normal range in both the placebo and CM groups at registration. Interestingly, the creatine kinase levels were significantly decreased in the CM group compared with those in the placebo group at 16 weeks after the test food intake (p < 0.05). These results suggest that Cordyceps militaris mycelium extract exhibits a protective action on the muscle damage observed in long-distance runners and may suppress muscle injury. Together, these observations suggest that Cordyceps militaris mycelium extract exhibits an improving effect on the markers for not only anemia, but also muscle injury in long-distance runners during pre-season training. Full article

Ultrasonic frequency pulse assisted TIG welding (UFP-TIG) experiments were conducted to join Inconel 690 alloy (IN690) by adding Inconel 718 alloy (IN718) as the filler. The effect of the filler on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and ductility dip cracking (DDC) susceptibility of IN690 joints were investigated. The results show that a variety of precipitates, including MC-type carbide and Laves phases, are formed in the weld zone (WZ), which are uniformly dispersed in the interdendritic region and grain boundaries (GBs). The increase in the thickness of the IN718 filler facilitates the precipitation and growth of Laves phases and MC carbides. However, the formation of Laves phases in the WZ exhibits a lower bonding force with the matrix and deteriorates the tensile strength of IN690 joints. Due to the moderate content of Laves phases in the WZ, the IN690 joint with 1.0 mm filler reaches the maximum tensile strength (627 MPa), which is about 96.5% of that of the base metal (BM). The joint with 1.0 mm filler also achieves the highest elongation (35.4%). In addition, the strain-to-fracture tests indicate that the total length of cracks in the joint with the IN718 filler decreases by 66.49% under a 3.8% strain. As a result, the addition of the IN718 filler significantly improves the mechanical properties and DDC resistance of IN690 joints. Full article

This comprehensive bibliometric analysis investigates energy-saving strategies in petroleum extraction, shedding light on key research areas, trends, and collaborations. The analysis covers 98 research articles spanning from 2003 to 2024, sourced from the Web of Science (WOS) database and analyzed using the Bibliometrics R package v.4.1.3, including descriptive statistics, network analysis, and factorial analysis. Findings reveal significant contributions from China, Canada, Russia, and the USA, with notable collaborations and thematic clusters identified. Top journals, prolific authors, and leading institutions are highlighted, showcasing global efforts in advancing sustainability in the oil industry. Institutions like the University of Calgary and authors such as Gates ID, Ren SR, and Zhang L play significant roles in advancing knowledge in this domain. Keyword analysis underscores prevalent themes such as optimization, simulation, and energy efficiency. Technological innovations, process optimization, and organizational strategies emerge as crucial avenues for reducing electrical energy consumption in oil extraction operations. However, limitations include database constraints and language bias. Overall, this study offers valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders, informing future research directions and policy initiatives for enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability in petroleum extraction. Full article

The direct sowing of rapeseed requires shallow tillage for stubble removal, which can cause significant vibrations that impact the seed metering device, thereby affecting the quality of seeding. This study focuses on a double-row hole-wheel-type seed metering device on the 2BYG-220 type combined rapeseed planter. Initially, vibrations experienced by the seed drill during field operations were measured and analyzed, revealing that the vibration frequencies during field operations predominantly ranged between 0 and 25 Hz. Consequently, an eccentric wheel–return-spring-type vibration seed metering test rig was designed, manufactured, and set up. By swapping out the eccentric wheel on the test rig, the amplitude was mainly concentrated within 3 mm. The test results indicate that amplitude had a minimal impact on the performance of the double-row hole-wheel-type rapeseed seed metering device, whereas vibration frequency had a more significant effect. When the vibration frequency was between 0 and 10 Hz, the seed metering device maintained a stable output between 7.6 and 8.2 g/min, with minimal impact from vibrations: the coefficient of variation for seeding uniformity ranged between 35.81% and 44.58%, indicating stability and good uniformity. However, when the vibration frequency ranged from 10 to 24 Hz, the output of the seed metering device decreased rapidly and exhibited a linear relationship with frequency changes, with a determination coefficient (R²) of 0.92376. The coefficient of variation for seeding uniformity increased rapidly and also showed a linear relationship with frequency changes, with a determination coefficient (R²) of 0.87973. Vibrations with frequencies greater than 10 Hz had a considerable impact on the performance of the seed metering device. Full article

This study delves into the interplay between the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) ratings and the debt costs incurred by Korean-listed companies, highlighting their pivotal significance in today’s corporate ecosystem. Our primary focus is to explore how the extent of media coverage moderates this relationship, thereby shedding light on the pivotal role that public scrutiny plays in shaping a company’s financial outcomes. Utilizing the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression model, we rigorously control for industry and year effects, as well as firm-specific variations. Additionally, we conduct a series of supplementary analyses and robust tests to further strengthen the credibility of our findings. Our empirical analysis reveals that firms with poor ESG ratings, indicating corporate social irresponsibility, incur higher debt costs in the subsequent period. Notably, this adverse financial impact is significantly alleviated for companies that enjoy higher media coverage. This notable discovery underscores the potential of media scrutiny to reduce the financial burden imposed by inadequate ESG performance. Our results suggest that companies, especially those with limited media attention, should prioritize enhancing their ESG performance to mitigate potential financial implications. Overall, our research contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the intersection between corporate social responsibility, media coverage, and financial performance. Full article

Electrochemical pH sensors have a wide range of industrial applications such as in medicine due to their fast response and high sensitivity to pH changes. This work focuses on the preparation of samples based on the nanostructure of TiO₂ with potentiostatically deposited particles of iridium and its oxides (IrO₂), using a Ti-6Al-4V alloy as the base material, and subsequent surface characterization. Transmission electron microscopy and secondary ion mass spectroscopy showed Ir particles distributed in the nanotubes. Using a potentiostatic method, a stable pH sensor was prepared. By monitoring the open circuit potential, it was shown that this sensor is usable even without being kept in a storage medium and does not react to changes in the redox potential of the solution. Full article

In the technical literature examining P92 steel grade, a common material used for elements of power equipment with enhanced operating parameters, there are numerous studies on creep tests. However, there is a lack of information on the fatigue processes of such materials, especially thermo-mechanical fatigue. The presented article investigates certain aspects of this phenomenon, focusing on the behavioral aspect of P92 steel under time-varying mechanical and thermal load conditions. The analysis of the behavior of the high-pressure elements of power equipment focused on the operating parameters. These parameters lead to various stress and strain fields in the elements, allowing the determination of their fatigue life. The issue of selecting fatigue life criteria for materials and forecasting the durability of elements operating under mechanical loads and time-varying elevated temperatures was also examined. In this case, the material characteristics determined under laboratory conditions and the applicable standard used by designers of power equipment were utilized. Full article

Fruit storage is optimized at the lowest safe temperature to maximize storage life whilst avoiding chilling or freezing injury. The few published studies of freezing in kiwifruit (Actinidia spp.) have been conducted with A. chinensis var. deliciosa ‘Hayward’ fruit, with freezing temperatures reported in the range of −1.5 °C to −2.5 °C. In China, a large number of kiwifruit cultivars have been commercialized recently, with at least ten being commonly planted. In this research, freshly harvested fruits from 45 kiwifruit germplasm accessions were measured for freezing point, soluble solids content (SSC) and water content (WC). The difference in freezing point of different tissue zones within a fruit and after different periods of cold storage were determined for the fruit of three representative main cultivars: the green-fleshed ‘Hayward’, the red-fleshed A. chinensis var. chinensis ‘Donghong’, and the yellow-fleshed interspecific hybrid A. eriantha × A. chinensis ‘Jinyan’. The the freezing point of kiwifruit was found to be highly correlated with the SSC. This relationship was found irrespective of whether the measurement was made at harvest, at different places in the fruit, or after ripening during storage. These findings agree with previous reports for kiwifruit and other fruits, although it appears that the relationship may differ among kiwifruit cultivars, something not previously reported and which requires further confirmation. Full article

This study aimed to explore the fermentative performance of nine lactic acid bacterial strains with probiotic potential during sorghum fermentation. The strain’s attributes including proliferation counts, pH levels, production of organic acid antibacterial activity, and their ability to break down starch were evaluated during the fermentation period in the presence and absence of glucose as a carbon source. In addition, the inhibitory activity of these potential probiotic strains against pathogenic bacteria (Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus) was examined through a co-culturing technique. The results demonstrated that all 4 Lactobacillus strains exhibited robust growth in both glucose and glucose-free fermentation experiments. Glucose supplementation significantly enhanced lactic acid yield which ranged from 0.19 to 0.44% compared to fermentation without glucose which ranged from 0.04 to 0.29%. The selected Lactobacillus strains effectively lowered the media pH below 4.0 after 24 h, producing substantial lactic acid. Notably, in the absence of glucose, only Lb. helveticus D7 and Lb. amylolyticus D12 achieved pH levels below 4 after 8 h, producing the highest lactic acid amounts of 0.27 and 0.29% after 24 h, respectively. Amylase activity was detected on two strains, D7 and D12. Furthermore, most of the tested Lactobacillus strains demonstrated complete inhibition (6 log to 0 Log CFU/mL) of pathogen growth after 24 h of co-culturing, suggesting their potential for enhancing the safety quality of sorghum-based fermented products. Full article

Path planning is an important research direction in the field of robotics; however, with the advancement of modern science and technology, the study of efficient, stable, and safe path-planning technology has become a realistic need in the field of robotics research. This paper introduces an improved sparrow search algorithm (ISSA) with a fusion strategy to further improve the ability to solve challenging tasks. First, the sparrow population is initialized using circle chaotic mapping to enhance diversity. Second, the location update formula of the northern goshawk is used in the exploration phase to replace the sparrow search algorithm’s location update formula in the security situation. This improves the discoverer model’s search breadth in the solution space and optimizes the problem-solving efficiency. Third, the algorithm adopts the Lévy flight strategy to improve the global optimization ability, so that the sparrow jumps out of the local optimum in the later stage of iteration. Finally, the adaptive T-distribution mutation strategy enhances the local exploration ability in late iterations, thus improving the sparrow search algorithm’s convergence speed. This was applied to the CEC2021 function set and compared with other standard intelligent optimization algorithms to test its performance. In addition, the ISSA was implemented in the path-planning problem of mobile robots. The comparative study shows that the proposed algorithm is superior to the SSA in terms of path length, running time, path optimality, and stability. The results show that the proposed method is more effective, robust, and feasible in mobile robot path planning. Full article

Timely and accurate detection and characterization of microbial threats is crucial for effective infection and outbreak management. Additionally, in food production, rapid microbe identification is indispensable for maintaining quality control and hygiene standards. Current methods for typing microbial strains often rely on labor-intensive, time-consuming, and expensive DNA- and sera-serotyping techniques, limiting their applicability in rapid-response scenarios. In this context, the IR Biotyper^®, utilizing Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, offers a novel approach, providing specific spectra for fast strain typing within 3 h. This methodology article serves as a comprehensive resource for researchers and technicians aiming to utilize FTIR spectroscopy for microbial strain typing. It encompasses detailed guidelines on sample preparation, data acquisition, and analysis techniques, ensuring the generation of reliable and reproducible results. We highlight the IR Biotyper^®’s rapid and accurate discrimination capabilities, showcasing its potential for real-time pathogen monitoring and source-tracking to enhance public health and food safety. We propose its integration as an early screening method, followed by more detailed analysis with whole-genome sequencing, to optimize detection accuracy and response efficiency in microbial surveillance systems. Full article

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are pivotal in signal transduction processes in plant–pathogen interactions. The ROS signaling pathways involved in Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas) and Xanthomonas citri subspecies citri (Xcc) infections in Citrus sinensis (sweet orange) are unclear. In this study, we comprehensively identified ROS metabolism-associated genes, including 9 NADPH oxidase (RBOH), 14 superoxide dismutase (SOD), 1 catalase (CAT), 9 peroxiredoxin (PrxR), 5 ascorbate peroxidase (APX), 4 glutathione peroxidase (GPX), 3 monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDAR), 2 dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR), 2 glutathione reductase (GR), 24 thioredoxin (Trx), and 18 glutaredoxin (GLR) genes in C. sinensis. An analysis revealed variable gene structures but conserved motifs and domains in ROS subfamilies. A comparative synteny analysis with Arabidopsis thaliana and Vitis vinifera indicated evolutionary conservation of most ROS metabolism-associated genes, with some originating from gene duplication events post-species divergence in C. sinensis. Expression profiling revealed five up-regulated genes and four down-regulated genes during both CLas and Xcc infections. Promoter analysis revealed numerous stress-responsive elements in the promoter of ROS metabolism-associated genes. Protein–protein interaction network analysis highlighted the involvement of ROS metabolism in various biological processes. A comparison of ROS metabolism-associated genes between C. sinensis and Poncirus trifoliata indicated multiple gene gain and loss events within ROS subfamilies of C. sinensis. This study enhances our understanding of ROS metabolism in C. sinensis and sheds light on citrus–pathogen interactions. Full article

This study aims to investigate the probiotic properties of various isolated strains of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum. Specifically, the focus is on examining the expression of the glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) gene and its role in the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a promising postbiotic metabolite. The investigation includes comprehensive analyses of morphology, genetics, resilience against bile, NaCl, and simulated pancreatin juice (SPJ), carbohydrate fermentation patterns, antibacterial activity, susceptibility to antibiotics, and the presence of β-D-galactosidase and GAD enzymes. Six L. plantarum strains exhibited remarkable resilience against bile, NaCl, and SPJ, as well as susceptibility to antibiotics and antagonistic behavior against pathogens. These strains also showed the presence of β-D-galactosidase. Additionally, five L. plantarum strains were found to harbor the gad gene. Further biochemical analysis of four specific L. plantarum strains revealed promising profiles consisting of antibiotics, vitamins, hormones, and a diverse array of metabolites with potential immunotherapeutic properties. This study highlights the substantial potential of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum in generating beneficial postbiotic metabolites. The identified strains offer exciting avenues for further exploration, with potential applications in functional foods and pharmaceuticals. This research opens up possibilities for harnessing the probiotic and postbiotic potential of L. plantarum to develop novel products with health-promoting properties. Full article

For a class of fractional-order singular multi-agent systems (FOSMASs) with local Lipschitz nonlinearity, this paper proposes a closed-loop ${\mathcal{D}}^{\alpha }$-type iterative learning formation control law via input sharing to achieve the stable formation of FOSMASs in a finite time. Firstly, the formation control issue of FOSMASs with local Lipschitz nonlinearity under the fixed communication topology (FCT) is transformed into the consensus tracking control scenario. Secondly, by virtue of utilizing the characteristics of fractional calculus and the generalized Gronwall inequality, sufficient conditions for the convergence of formation error are given. Then, drawing upon the FCT, the iteration-varying switching communication topology is considered and examined. Ultimately, the validity of the ${\mathcal{D}}^{\alpha }$-type learning method is showcased through two numerical cases. Full article

This paper delves into the integration of Factories of the Future (FoF) and digital twin technologies within urban contexts, marking a significant leap in Smart Cities development. We present a thorough exploration of the principles and a scientifically grounded framework designed for seamlessly blending advanced manufacturing systems with the urban environment’s digital and physical aspects. Our detailed analysis has identified core principles crucial for this integration, focusing on interoperability, sustainability, adaptability, stakeholder collaboration, and strong data governance. We propose a structured framework that puts these principles into action, outlining strategic routes for incorporating digital twin and Building Information Modeling (BIM) technologies into FoF, establishing public-private partnerships, enhancing education and workforce development, and setting up mechanisms for ongoing evaluation and enhancement. The potential of this integration to transform urban development is vast, providing a model for boosting operational efficiency, driving economic growth, and enhancing urban livability. Although challenges exist in realizing this vision, our research offers practical insights and strategies for cities and industries to effectively navigate the complexities of the digital era. This contribution enriches the growing field of urban science, advocating for a harmonious integration of industrial production with urban development in the Smart Cities framework. Full article

It is shown that a more than significant amount of experimental data obtained in the field of studying systems based on thermosensitive hydrophilic polymers and reflected in the literature over the past decades makes the issue of their systematization and classification relevant. This, in turn, makes relevant the question of choosing the appropriate classification criteria. It is shown that the basic classification feature can be the number of phase transition stages, which can vary from one to four or more depending on the nature of the temperature-sensitive system. In this work, the method of inverse phase portraits is proposed for the first time. It was intended, among other things, to identify the number of phase transition stages. Moreover, the accuracy of this method significantly exceeds the accuracy of the previously used method of direct phase portraits since, for the first time, the operation of numerical differentiation is replaced by the operation of numerical integration. A specific example of the application of the proposed method for the analysis of a previously studied temperature-sensitive system is presented. It is shown that this method also allows for a quantitative comparison between the results obtained by the differential calorimetry method and the turbidimetry method. Issues related to increasing the resolution of the method of direct phase portraits are discussed. Full article

NMR spectroscopy, molecular modeling, and conductivity experiments were used to investigate micelle formation by the amino acid-based surfactant tridecanoic L-glutamic acid. Amino acid-based biosurfactants are green alternatives to surfactants derived from petroleum. NMR titrations were used to measure the monomeric surfactant’s primary and gamma (γ) carboxylic acid pK_a values. Intramolecular hydrogen bonding within the surfactant’s headgroup caused the primary carboxylic acid to be less acidic than the corresponding functional group in free L-glutamic acid. Likewise, intermolecular hydrogen bonding caused the micellar surfactant’s γ carboxylic functional group to be less acidic than the corresponding monomer value. The binding of four positive counterions to the anionic micelles was also investigated. At pH levels below 7.0 when the surfactant headgroup charge was −1, the micelle hydrodynamic radii were larger (~30 Å) and the mole fraction of micelle-bound counterions was in the 0.4–0.7 range. In the pH range of 7.0–10.5, the micelle radii decreased with increasing pH and the mole fraction of micelle bound counterions increased. These observations were attributed to changes in the surfactant headgroup charge with pH. Above pH 10.5, the counterions deprotonated and the mole fraction of micelle-bound counterions decreased further. Finally, critical micelle concentration measurements showed that the micelles formed at lower concentrations at pH 6 when the headgroup charge was predominately −1 and at higher concentrations at pH 7 where headgroups had a mixture of −1 and −2 charges in solution. Full article

Cataracts are characterized by the crystalline lens of the eye becoming cloudy, and dry eye disease (DED) is a multifactorial disease in which the homeostasis of the tear film is lost. As the prevalence of both diseases increases with age, there is a high prevalence of DED among patients who are candidates for cataract surgery. In recent years, cataract surgery has evolved from vision restoration surgery to refractive surgery. To achieve good surgical outcomes, it is necessary to minimize postoperative refractive error in intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation, which requires accurate preoperative keratometry measurements. A stable tear film is important for the accuracy and reproducibility of keratometry measurements, and DED may have a deleterious effect. In this study, original articles that focused primarily on findings related to this topic were evaluated. A systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Although appropriate DED diagnoses were not presented in the articles evaluated in this review, it was confirmed that the clinical signs of DED, particularly the shortening of the tear film break-up time (TBUT), negatively impact IOL power calculations. Improvement in these clinical signs might mitigate the negative effects on these calculations. Full article