Mitigation of acrylamide in fried food systems using a combination of zein-pectin hydrocolloid complex and a food-grade l-asparaginase.

Acrylamide, a Maillard reaction product, formed in fried food poses a serious concern to food safety due to its neurotoxic and carcinogenic nature. A "Green Approach" using L-Asparaginase enzyme from GRAS-status bacteria synergized with hydrocolloid protective coating could be effective in inhibiting acrylamide formation. To fill this void, the present study reports a new variant of type-II L-asparaginase (AsnLb) from Levilactobacillus brevis NKN55, a food-grade bacterium isolated using a unique metabolite profiling approach. The recombinant AsnLb enzyme was characterized to study acrylamide inhibition ability and showed excellent specificity towards L-asparagine (157.2 U/mg) with Km, Vmax of 0.833 mM, 4.12 mM/min respectively. Pretreatment of potato slices with AsnLb (60 IU/mL) followed by zein-pectin nanocomplex led to >70% reduction of acrylamide formation suggesting synergistic effect of this dual component system. The developed strategy can be employed as a sustainable treatment method by food industries for alleviating acrylamide formation and associated health hazard in fried foods.

Formation of chlorophyll-anionic polysaccharide complex coacervates to improve chlorophyll color stability: Thermodynamic and kinetic stability studies.

Chlorophyll (Chl) is the predominant pigment in green plants that can act as a food color and possesses various functional activities. However, its instability and rapid degradation on heating compromise the sensory qualities of its products. This study aimed to enhance the heat resistance of Chl by forming complex coacervates with two negatively charged polysaccharides, sodium alginate (SA) and K-carrageenan (KC). Dynamic light scattering and scanning electron microscopy analyses confirmed the formation of coacervates between Chl and the polysaccharides, whereas Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that hydrogen bonding and electrostatic attraction were the primary forces behind complex formation. Electron spin resonance and thermodynamic studies further revealed that these complexes bolstered the thermal stability of Chl, with a maximum improvement of 70.38 % in t1/2 and a reduction of 50.72 % in the degradation rate constant. In addition, the antioxidant capacity of Chl was enhanced up to 35 %. Therefore, this study offers a novel approach to Chl preservation and suggests a viable alternative to artificial pigments in food products.

Cryoprotective role of vacuum infused inulin on the quality of artichoke: Interactive effects of freezing, thawing and storage period.

Freezing of artichoke is a promising alternative to storing it in brine and canning. The perishable vegetable was vacuum infused with inulin to improve freezing tolerance. Artichokes with and without inulin were frozen by static, air blast and individual quick freezing (IQF) methods and thawed by microwave, 25 °C and 4 °C temperature levels at each month of 6-months storage. Process conditions were evaluated by multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and were found significant on the quality parameters. Inulin infusion better conserved the aw, color, texture, ascorbic acid and overall integrity of artichokes during frozen storage. Inulin incorporation and IQF showed mutual positive effect on drip loss. Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity values fitted to 2nd order kinetic and the highest residuals were determined in static freezing. PPO showed alleviating effect on total phenolic content. Vacuum impregnation caused a color difference prior to freezing, but was found effective for maintaining color during storage. As a result, the use of quick freezing techniques together with the addition of cryoprotectant was effective in the preservation of artichoke quality attributes during frozen storage.

Arabinoxylan-based psyllium seed hydrocolloid: Single-step aqueous extraction and use in tissue engineering.

Biomacromolecules derived from natural sources offer superior biocompatibility, biodegradability, and water-holding capacity, which make them promising scaffolds for tissue engineering. Psyllium seed has gained attention in biomedical applications recently due to its gel-forming ability, which is provided by its polysaccharide-rich content consisting mostly of arabinoxylan. This study focuses on the extraction and gelation of Psyllium seed hydrocolloid (PSH) in a single-step water-based protocol, and scaffold fabrication using freeze-drying method. After characterization of the scaffold, including morphological, mechanical, swelling, and protein adsorption analyses, 3D cell culture studies were done using NIH-3 T3 fibroblast cells on PSH scaffold, and cell viability was assessed using Live/Dead and Alamar Blue assays. Starting from day 1, high cell viability was obtained, and it reached 90 % at the end of 15-day culture period. Cellular morphology on PSH scaffold was monitored via SEM analysis; cellular aggregates then spheroid formation were observed throughout the study. Collagen Type-I and F-actin expressions were followed by immunostaining revealing a 9- and 10-fold increase during long-term culture. Overall, a single-step and non-toxic protocol was developed for extraction and gelation of PSH. Obtained results unveiled that PSH scaffold provided a favorable 3D microenvironment for cells, holding promise for further tissue engineering applications.

Xanthan gum-based edible coating effectively preserve postharvest quality of 'Gola' guava fruits by regulating physiological and biochemical processes.

BACKGROUND: Guava is a fruit prone to rapid spoilage following harvest, attributed to continuous and swift physicochemical transformations, leading to substantial postharvest losses. This study explored the efficacy of xanthan gum (XG) coatings applied at various concentrations (0.25, 0.5, and 0.75%) on guava fruits (Gola cultivar) over a 15-day storage period. RESULTS: The results indicated that XG coatings, particularly at 0.75%, substantially mitigated moisture loss and decay, presenting an optimal concentration. The coated fruits exhibited a modified total soluble soluble solids, an increased total titratable acidity, and an enhanced sugar-acid ratio, collectively enhancing overall quality. Furthermore, the XG coatings demonstrated the remarkable ability to preserve bioactive compounds, such as total phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidants, while minimizing the levels of oxidative stress markers, such as electrolyte leakage, malondialdehyde, and H2O2. The coatings also influenced cell wall components, maintaining levels of hemicellulose, cellulose, and protopectin while reducing water-soluble pectin. Quantitative analysis of ROS-scavenging enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase, revealed significant increases in their activities in the XG-coated fruits compared to those in the control fruits. Specifically, on day 15, the 0.75% XG coating demonstrated the highest SOD and CAT activities while minimizing the reduction in APX activity. Moreover, XG coatings mitigated the activities of fruit-softening enzymes, including pectin methylesterase, polygalacturonase, and cellulase. CONCLUSIONS: This study concludes that XG coatings play a crucial role in preserving postharvest quality of guava fruits by regulating various physiological and biochemical processes. These findings offer valuable insights into the potential application of XG as a natural coating to extend the shelf life and maintain the quality of guava fruits during storage.

Physicochemical and Functional Properties of Citrullus mucosospermus, Citroides, and Moringa oleifera Seeds' Hydrocolloids.

Hydrocolloids form gel-like structures when dispersed in water and have garnered significant attention for their diverse applications in food, pharmaceuticals, and other industries. The extraction of hydrocolloids from natural sources, such as seeds, presents an intriguing avenue due to the potential diversity in composition and functionality. Utilising seeds from Citrullus lanatus mucosospermus, lanatus citroides, and Moringa aligns with the growing demand for natural and sustainable ingredients in various industries. This research investigated hydrocolloids extracted from Citrullus mucosospermus (CMS), lanatus citroides, and Moringa oleifera seeds, highlighting their versatile physicochemical and functional attributes. Hydrocolloids were extracted from the seeds and subjected to analysis of their proximate composition, particle size distribution, and interfacial tension using the hot water extraction method. Protein content variation was observed among the raw oilseed (CMS, Citroides, and Moringa oleifera) flours. The protein content of the hydrocolloids surpassed that of raw oilseeds, significantly enhancing the amino acid profile. Furthermore, the hydrocolloid ash contents ranged from 4.09% to 6.52% w/w dry weight, coupled with low fat levels. The particle size distribution revealed predominantly fine particles with a narrow size distribution. All three hydrocolloids demonstrated remarkable oil- and water-holding capacities, highlighting their suitability for efficient stabilisation and emulsification in food formulations. These findings suggest the potential utilisation of these hydrocolloids as valuable ingredients across a spectrum of applications, encompassing food, pharmaceuticals, and industry, thus contributing to the development of sustainable and functional products. The unique attributes presented herein mark a noteworthy advancement in the understanding and application of novel hydrocolloids from CMS, Citroides, and Moringa oleifera.

Synergistic Influence of Melatonin-Hydrocolloid Coating on Decay and Senescence of Nectarine (Prunus persica var. nucipersica) during Supermarket Storage Conditions.

Nectarines have remarkable nutritional value, low caloric content, and are rich in antioxidants. However, despite substantial local and global demand, their susceptibility to rapid spoilage during peak summer harvest is limited. To address this issue, the current study investigated the potential benefits of using melatonin (MLT), an antioxidant biomolecule, in combination with edible hydrocolloid coatings like carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and gum Arabic (G.A.) on 'Snow Queen' nectarine fruits. The nectarines were treated with various combinations of coatings, including 1% and 1.5% CMC, 8% and 10% G.A., and 0.1 mM melatonin. These coated and non-coated samples were stored under standard supermarket conditions (18 ± 1 °C, 85-90% R.H.) for 16 days. The outcomes demonstrated that the most effective treatment was the combination of 1% CMC with 0.1 mM melatonin. This treatment significantly (p ≤ 0.05) reduced the rate of respiration, curbed fruit decay by approximately 95%, minimized weight loss by around 42%, and maintained approximately 39% higher levels of total phenol content and roughly 30% greater antioxidant (AOX) activity. These positive effects were accompanied by preserved firmness and overall quality attributes. Moreover, the treatment extended the shelf life to 16 days through retarding senescence and suppressing the activities of lipoxygenase (LOX) and pectin methylesterase (PME), all without compromising the functional qualities of the nectarine.

Unveiling the impact of additives on structural integrity, thermal and color stability of C-phycocyanin - Agar hydrocolloid.

C-Phycocyanin and sugar (C-PC/S) blended agar hydrocolloid was prepared and its rheological, thermo-functional and morphological properties were examined based on the fluorescence excitation-emission matrix profile. Sucrose (40%, w/v) determined as a superior preservative, maintaining the native conformation of C-PC effectively. C-PC/S exhibited enhanced structural integrity with high storage modulus (G') and 86.4% swelling index. FT-IR demonstrated strong intramolecular bonding. TGA revealed that the presence of sucrose prolonged the devolatilization peak up to 325 °C, with a degradation rate of -2.273 mg/min, it the thermal stability. C-PC/S fortified hydrocolloid in ice cream (5.0% w/w), reduced melting rate up to five times. In conclusion, sucrose as a promising enhancer of color stability and structural integrity for C-PC, and this combination effectively improves the functional and rheological properties. Further, the findings exposed the agar hydrocolloid as a potential enhancer of color retention and improved performance for various food and cosmetic products.

Effects of hydrocolloids on mechanical properties, viscoelastic and microstructural properties of starch-based modeling clay.

The effects of various hydrocolloids (guar gum, xanthan gum, and carboxymethyl cellulose) on the texture, rheology, and microstructural properties of modeling clay prepared with cassava starch were investigated. Notably, incorporation of 3 % guar gum and 4 % xanthan gum into starch-based modeling clay resulted in enhancements of 94.12 % and 77.47 % in cohesiveness, and 64.70 % and 66.20 % in extensibility, respectively. For starch-based modeling clay with added guar gum and xanthan gum, compared to formulations without hydrocolloids, the linear viscoelastic range exceeded 0.04 %, and the frequency dependence of both maximum creep compliance (Jmax) and storage modulus (G') was significantly reduced. This indicates a more stable network structure and enhanced resistance to deformation. Results from Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed that the physical interactions between starch and various hydrocolloids, along with the addition of these hydrocolloids, inhibited the degradation effect of thermomechanical processing on the crystalline structure of starch. With the addition of guar gum, it is observed that a continuous and dense network structure forms within the starch-based modeling clay, and starch particles are distributed uniformly. In conclusion, hydrocolloids enhances the properties of starch-based modeling clay, introducing an innovative solution to the modeling clay sector.

Investigation of Guar Gum and Xanthan Gum Influence on Essential Thyme Oil Emulsion Properties and Encapsulation Release Using Modeling Tools.

This study explores the influence of hydrocolloid interactions between Guar Gum (GG) and Xanthan Gum (XG) on the stability and release dynamics of essential thyme oil emulsions. We systematically characterized six emulsions with varying GG and XG ratios, employing spray-drying techniques for the encapsulation process. The stability of the emulsions was quantitatively analyzed, revealing a marked decrease in stability rates correlated with higher initial emulsion activity (zero-order kinetic constant r = -0.972). Furthermore, this study demonstrated that emulsions with carefully optimized hydrocolloid ratios could achieve high encapsulation efficiency (74%) and controlled release profiles. Kinetic modeling and diffusion analyses elucidated that increased XG concentrations tend to reduce diffusivity, thereby enhancing emulsion stability. The effective diffusivity of the thyme oil within the emulsion matrix was determined to be within a range of 0.7 to 2.4 × 10-10 m2/s, significantly influencing release kinetics. The Pearson correlation matrix underlined a substantial negative association between emulsion activity and effective diffusivity (r = -0.740), indicating that denser hydrocolloid networks impede oil mobility. The findings conclusively establish that the interplay of GG and XG concentrations is pivotal in dictating the emulsion's physicochemical properties, with denser networks formed by higher XG content leading to slower oil release rates and enhanced stability. This research provides critical insights for the design of encapsulated food and pharmaceutical products, highlighting the imperative of strategic hydrocolloid selection to realize specific functional attributes and performance criteria.

Clinical efficacy of crushed prednisolone and hydrocolloid powder in the primary treatment of peristomal pyoderma gangrenosum and correlation to in vitro drug release data.

We evaluated the primary application of crushed prednisolone combined with hydrocolloid powder for clinically diagnosed peristomal pyoderma gangrenosum (PPG). We present our data on this cohort and follow-up of our previous patients. Of the 23 patients who were commenced on this regime, 18 healed (78%). Twenty-two patients commenced on this regime as the primary treatment for their PPG, and for one, it was a rescue remedy after failed conventional therapy. Four patients with significant medical comorbidities failed to heal and one had their stomal reversal surgery before being fully healed. The proposed treatment regime for PPG is demonstrated to be effective, inexpensive and able to be managed in the patient's usual home environment. In vitro drug release analysis was undertaken, and data are presented to provide further insights into the efficacy of this regime.

Stability in Aqueous Solution of a New Spray-Dried Hydrocolloid of High Andean Algae Nostoc sphaericum.

There is a growing emphasis on seeking stabilizing agents with minimal transformation, prioritizing environmentally friendly alternatives, and actively contributing to the principles of the circular economy. This research aimed to assess the stability of a novel spray-dried hydrocolloid from high Andean algae when introduced into an aqueous solution. Nostoc sphaericum freshwater algae were subject to atomization, resulting in the production of spray-dried hydrocolloid (SDH). Subsequently, suspension solutions of SDH were meticulously prepared at varying pH levels and gelling temperatures. These solutions were then stored for 20 days to facilitate a comprehensive evaluation of their stability in suspension. The assessment involved a multifaceted approach, encompassing rheological analysis, scrutiny of turbidity, sedimentation assessment, ζ-potential, and measurement of particle size. The findings from these observations revealed that SDH exhibits a dilatant behavior when in solution, signifying an increase in with higher shear rate. Furthermore, it demonstrates commendable stability when stored under ambient conditions. SDH is emerging as a potential alternative stabilizer for use in aqueous solutions due to its easy extraction and application.

Effect of hydrocolloids on starch digestion: A review.

Rapidly digestible starch can increase postprandial blood sugar rapidly, which can be overcome by hydrocolloids. The paper aims to review the effect of hydrocolloids on starch digestion. Hydrocolloids used to reduce starch digestibility are mostly polysaccharides like xanthan gum, pectin, ß-glucan, and konjac glucomannan. Their effectiveness is related to their source and structure, mixing mode of hydrocolloid/starch, physical treatment, and starch processing. The mechanisms of hydrocolloid action include increased system viscosity, inhibition of enzymatic activity, and reduced starch accessibility to enzymes. Reduced starch accessibility to enzymes involves physical barrier and structural orderliness. In the future, physical treatments and intensity used for stabilizing hydrocolloid/starch complex, risks associated with different doses of hydrocolloids, and the development of related clinical trials should be focused on. Besides, investigating the effect of hydrocolloids on starch should be conducted in the context of practical commercial applications rather than limited to the laboratory level.

Valorization of Spent Grains from Beer Production through ß-Glucan Extraction.

Brewers' spent grains (BSG) are the major byproduct of the brewing industry. Recently, it has been found that ß-glucan, which can be used as a food supplement, can be extracted from BSG and offers the greatest added value. This study aimed to investigate the effects of temperature (45-90 °C) and time (30-120 min) on ß-glucan extraction efficiency when using hot water extraction. ß-glucan was precipitated upon 80% ethanol addition. The chemical compositions were examined. The highest ß-glucan concentration and yield were obtained at a temperature and time of 60 °C and 90 min, respectively. The functional properties of the extracted ß-glucan were analyzed and compared with other commercial stabilizers such as sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), xanthan gum, gum arabic, and oat ß-glucan. All stabilizers exhibited non-Newtonian flow behavior, except for gum arabic, which exhibited Newtonian flow behavior. The water holding capacity of BSG ß-glucan was 6.82 g/g and the creaming index of the emulsions stabilized with BSG ß-glucan was 89.05%. BSG ß-glucan improved the color and stability of orange juice by reducing the precipitation of orange pulp. This study illustrated that BSG ß-glucan can be used as a stabilizer and viscosity enhancer in foods, depending on the concentration, which can be applied to a variety of foods.

Role of hydrocolloid dressing in preventing face pressure ulcers from non-invasive ventilation and facilitating postoperative wound healing in maxillofacial surgery: A meta-analysis.

Facial pressure ulcers from non-invasive ventilation (NIV) and challenges in wound healing post-maxillofacial surgery are significant concerns in clinical care. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of hydrocolloid dressings in these contexts. From a pool of 1135 articles, 8 studies met the inclusion criteria. Hydrocolloid dressings demonstrated a significant reduction in facial pressure ulcers for NIV patients, with lower REEDA scores 1-week postapplication (standardized mean difference [SMD] = -16.7, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -24.26 to -9.15, p < 0.01). In maxillofacial surgery, patients treated with hydrocolloid dressings exhibited improved wound healing and reduced scar formation, evidenced by lower Manchester Scar Scale scores 3 months post-surgery (SMD = -15.46, 95% CI: -20.28 to -10.64, p < 0.01). These findings suggest that hydrocolloid dressings are effective in both preventing NIV-related facial pressure ulcers and enhancing wound healing in maxillofacial surgery.

Effect of prophylactic dressings to reduce pressure injuries: a polymer-based skin model.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the effect of pressure injury (PI) prophylactic dressings used for patients at high risk of PI development to reduce friction, shear force and pressure, and their combined force, in an original polymer-based skin model. METHOD: A low-friction outer-layer hydrocolloid (LFH) dressing and a multilayered silicone foam (MSF) dressing were used. Before application, compression and friction properties were measured. Our original experimental model-the 'simulated skin-shearing test'-consisted of: a weight; a polyurethane-based skin model containing a three-axis tactile sensor; dressings; a table covered with bedsheets; and a mechanical tester, by which the interface friction force, internal shear force and pressure were measured continuously during skin model movements. An estimated combined force generated by internal shear and pressure was represented as a vector. A model with no dressing was used as a control. RESULTS: The LFH dressing had significantly higher compression strength versus the MSF dressing. In contrast, the dynamic coefficient of friction was lower for the LFH dressing versus the MSF dressing (p<0.05). In simulated skin-shearing test results, shear forces were 0.45N and 0.42N for LFH and MSF dressings, respectively, with no significant difference. The estimated combined force was lower for the MSF dressing compared with that of the LFH dressing and control. CONCLUSION: The shear force-reducing effect in the skin model was equivalent between the LFH and MSF dressings. However, the MSF dressing significantly reduced the force generated by a combination of internal shear force and pressure compared with the LFH dressing.

Extrusion and Co-extrusion: A Technology in Probiotic Encapsulation with Alternative Materials.

Encapsulation, in particular extrusion and co-extrusion, is a common practice to protect probiotics from the harsh conditions of the digestive tract as well as processing. Hydrocolloids, including proteins and carbohydrates, natural or modified, are a group of ingredients used as the wall material in extrusion. Hydrocolloids, due to their specific properties, can significantly improve the probiotic survivability of the final powder during the microencapsulation process and storage. The present article will discuss the different kinds of hydrocolloids used for microencapsulation of probiotics by extrusion and co-extrusion, along with new sources of novel gums and their potential as wall material.

The effect of high hydrostatic pressure on the structure of whey proteins-guar gum mixture.

The effect of high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) on the structural properties of whey protein concentrate (WPC) and guar gum mixture has been investigated at pH 5. WPC (6 % w/v) and guar gum (0.25 % w/v) mixture was freeze dried after adjusting pH and treated at different pressure levels (0-600 MPa) for 0-30 min. The solubility of treated powders decreased significantly (p < 0.05) as treatment time and pressure levels increased. Thermal analysis showed an increase in denaturation temperature after HHP treatment at 600 MPa. A more crystalline structure was observed in samples treated with 600 MPa for 20 and 30 min. With increasing pressure and time, particle size of the samples increased and the highest particle size was belonged to sample treated at 600 MPa for 30 min (759.66 nm). SEM results exhibited that by applying the pressure, irregularity of shapes and particle size increased while the apparent cracks decreased. FTIR results indicated that HHP treatment changed shift in bond and peak intensity. As reported in the current study, the application of HHP treatment as a green physical technology on protein-polysaccharide mixture could be used to improve interaction of protein and polysaccharide.

Fabrication and characterization of a hydrocolloid wound dressing functionalized with human placental derived extracellular matrix for management of skin wounds: An animal study.

BACKGROUND: Functionalization of wound dressing is one of the main approaches for promoting wound healing in skin wound management. In this study, our aim is to fabricate a bio-functionalized hydrocolloid wound dressing. METHODS: The extracellular matrix (ECM) was extracted from human placental tissue. A hydrocolloid film was fabricated using Na-CMC, pectin, gelatin, styrene-isoprene-styrene adhesive, glycerol, and 0.5%-2.5% powdered ECM. A polyurethane film and a release liner were used in the hydrocolloid/ECM films. The mechanical, adhesion, swelling rate, and integrity of the films were investigated. Cell proliferation, adhesion, and migration assays, as well as, SEM and FTIR spectroscopy were also conducted. Macroscopic and microscopic evaluations of wound healing process and formation of blood vessels were conducted in mouse animal models. RESULTS: We successfully fabricated a three-layered ECM-functionalized hydrocolloid dressing with a water vapor transmission rate of 371 g/m2 /day and an adhesion peel strength of 176 KPa. Cellular adhesion, proliferation and migration were promoted by ECM. In the animal tests, ECM-functionalized hydrocolloids significantly improved wound closure and re-epithelialization at days 14 and 21. Also, ECM-functionalized hydrocolloids promoted the formation of hair follicles. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that ECM could enhance the wound healing properties of hydrocolloid wound dressings. This wound dressing could be considered for application in hard-to-heal acute wounds.

Polycaprolactone/cress seed mucilage based bilayer antibacterial films containing ZnO nanoparticles with superabsorbent property for the treatment of exuding wounds.

In this research, a novel double-layer film based on polycaprolactone and cress seed mucilage containing zinc oxide nanoparticles (0.5-2 %) was synthesized using solution casting technique, as an interactive multi-functional wound dressing. The bilayer films were characterized by measuring moisture content, contact angle parameter, porosity, water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), color attributes and opacity, swelling, degradation, mechanical properties, cell viability, and antimicrobial activity, as well as using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results indicated that the film containing 1.5 % zinc oxide nanoparticles had the best performance, with high swelling ability (3600 %) and 25 % degradation within 24 h of placement in a wound simulator solution. Its mechanical properties, including tensile strength and elongation at break, were 9 MPa and 5.53 %, respectively. In investigating the antimicrobial activity of the optimal film against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, the diameter of the inhibition zone was observed to be 39.33 and 42 mm, respectively. Moreover, increasing the number of ZnO-NPs hindered the growth of NIH/3T3 cells, but the 1.5 % ZnO-NP loaded film showed a high percentage of cell viability in 1 day (90 %) and 3 days (93 %), which is suitable for biomedical applications.