Crystal structure of α-amylase from Oryza sativa: molecular insights into enzyme activity and thermostability.

AmyI-1 is an α-amylase from Oryza sativa (rice) and plays a crucial role in degrading starch in various tissues and at various growth stages. This enzyme is a glycoprotein with an N-glycosylated carbohydrate chain, a unique characteristic among plant α-amylases. In this study, we report the first crystal structure of AmyI-1 at 2.

Preparation of Ultrafine Fe-Pt Alloy and Au Nanoparticle Colloids by KrF Excimer Laser Solution Photolysis.

We prepared ultrafine Fe-Pt alloy nanoparticle colloids by UV laser solution photolysis (KrF excimer laser of 248 nm wavelength) using precursors of methanol solutions into which iron and platinum complexes were dissolved together with PVP dispersant to prevent aggregations. From TEM observations, the Fe-Pt nanoparticles were found to be composed of disordered FCC A1 phase with average diameters of 0.5-3 nm regardless of the preparation conditions.