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The escalating fascination with Schiff bases stems from their versatile applications in medicine, pharmacology, biology, fine organic synthesis, and industrial processes. This minireview seeks to provide an in‐depth exploration of the synthesis of Schiff bases, specifically focusing on their derivation from 3‐aminopropylalkoxysilanes or 3‐aminopropylsilatranes. Additionally, the review delves into the utilization of Schiff bases in crafting metal complexes, unraveling their practical significance in various domains. Spanning from 1995 to 2024, this review is aimed at encapsulating the evolution of knowledge and advancements in the chemistry of Schiff bases during this period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Voltage-responsive biosensors capable of monitoring real-time adsorption behavior of biological analytes onto electroactive surfaces offer attractive strategies for disease detection, separations, and other adsorption-dependent analytical techniques. Adsorption of biological analytes onto electrically switchable surfaces can be modelled using neutravidin and biotin. Here, we report self-assembled monolayers formed from voltage-switchable biotinylated molecules on gold surfaces with tunable sensitivity to neutravidin in response to applied voltages. By using electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM), we demonstrated real-time switchable behavior of these bio-surfaces and investigate the range of sensitivity by varying the potential of the same surfaces from −400 mV to open circuit potential (+155 mV) to +300 mV. We compared the tunability of the mixed surfaces to bare Au surfaces, voltage inert surfaces, and switchable biotinylated surfaces. Our results indicate that quartz crystal microbalance allows real-time changes in analyte binding behavior, which enabled observing the evolution of neutravidin sensitivity as the applied voltage was shifted. EQCM could in principle be used in kinetic studies or to optimize voltage-switchable surfaces in adsorption-based diagnostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydraulic impact mathematical modeling allows for the quantitative assessment of various assemblies of the flow-through piston, and the optimization of its design and increased operating efficiency. This research has practical value and can be applied in various fields, and within the framework of this study, form requirements for subsequent bench tests. Existing experimental studies confirm the possibility of using hydraulic activation technology, but the absence of a scientific basis for its operation hinders their widespread implementation. The study examines the hydraulic characteristics of the flow when passing through the flow-through piston. According to the modeling results, the value of the hydraulic drag force and the pressure differential at which the valve operates are represented as functions of the liquid density and the geometry of the confuser. The minimum critical value of the piston hole diameter is established, which will provide the necessary pressure differential at a given flow rate of the drilling mud. It was found that increasing the confuser angle does not completely eliminate the occurrence of a stagnant zone, but reduces its area and increases the flow rate in it. For the first time, the value of the confuser angles was found at which the force value remains conditionally constant, and the pressure differential decreases rapidly. The findings demonstrates recommendations on the choice of the confuser geometry depending on the density of the drilling mud. Depending on the requirements, the piston shape, its design, and hydraulic parameters can be optimized, studied in detail to achieve the required results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today, providing clean water is a significant need and challenge. Among the hazardous contaminants in raw water is the presence of heavy metals such as Pb(II) and Cu(II)). The Fe3O4/SiO2/PEG composite material was prepared by wet mixing; in this case, the Fe3O4 and SiO2 magnetic particles were prepared from iron sand and silica sand by the co-precipitation method, respectively. Polyethylene Glycol (PEG- 4000) acts as a binder and a matrix. The structural, surface, and magnetic characteristics of the nanosized adsorbent were investigated by elemental analysis, FTIR, N2 adsorption--desorption, transmission electron microscopy, powder X-ray diffraction, vibrating sample magnetometry, and zeta-potential measurement. The Fe3O4/SiO2/PEG composite exhibited high adsorption affinity for aqueous Cu(II), and Pb(II) ions. According to isothermal and kinetic analyses, adsorption follows the Langmuir isotherm model and the pseudo second order kinetic model based on the Langmuir isotherm model, the maximum adsorption capacities of Pb(II) and Cu(II) were 76.3 mg/g and 45 mg/g for the Fe3O4/SiO2/PEG composite with a mass ratio of Fe3O4/SiO2 of 1:1, respectively. The Fe3O4/SiO2/PEG (1:1) showed high adsorption capacity after three regeneration cycles (79%), which can be a potential magnetic adsorbent for wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This project introduced a fast way for the adsorption of low amounts of ciprofloxacin in aqueous samples using β-cyclodextrin functionalized magnetic nanotubes (Fe3O4/NT/BD). In this method, the donor phase contains (water phase with ciprofloxacin) and the phase of the acceptor (functionalized magnetic nanotubes with β-cyclodextrin). Two steps of the Experiment were performed in the extraction of ciprofloxacin from the water sample and ciprofloxacin desorption with basic methanol. The Langmuir model isotherm was well described the ciprofloxacin adsorption, and the ciprofloxacin capacity in the maximum sorption was 30.12 mg/g. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model confirming the adsorption of ciprofloxacin by Fe3O4/NT/BD is limited in rate following the chemisorption process. The limit of detection and quantification factors for ciprofloxacin adsorption were 15.9 and 51.2 µg/L, respectively. A linear range parameter was attained between 1-10 mg/L. Finally, the Fe3O4/NT/BD presented a high potential for ciprofloxacin adsorption from biological samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ingenious design and fabrication of advanced carbon‐based sulfur cathodes are extremely important to the development of high‐energy lithium‐sulfur batteries, which hold promise as the next‐generation power source. Herein, for the first time, we report a novel versatile hyphae‐mediated biological assembly technology to achieve scale production of hyphae carbon fibers (HCFs) derivatives, in which different components including carbon, metal compounds, and semiconductors can be homogeneously assembled with HCFs to form composite networks. The mechanism of biological adsorption assembly is also proposed. As a representative, reduced graphene oxides (rGOs) decorated with hollow carbon spheres (HCSs) successfully co‐assemble with HCFs to form HCSs@rGOs/HCFs hosts for sulfur cathodes. In this unique architecture, not only large accommodation space for sulfur but also restrained volume expansion and fast charge transport paths are realized. Meanwhile, multiscale physical barriers plus chemisorption sites are simultaneously established to anchor soluble lithium polysulfides. Accordingly, the designed HCSs@rGOs/HCFs‐S cathodes deliver a high capacity (1189 mA h g−1 at 0.1 C) and good high‐rate capability (686 mA h g−1 at 5 C). Our work provides a new approach for the preparation of high‐performance carbon‐based electrodes for energy storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Archives of Veterinary Medicine / Arhiv Veterinarske Medicine is the property of Scientific Veterinary Institute Novi Sad and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Engenharia na Agricultura is the property of Engenharia na Agricultura and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Dopamine detection and concentration identification using electrochemical sensing technique is critically important for a wide range of disease diagnosis and monitoring. However, the sensitivity of electrochemical sensing can be significantly affected from the non-specific protein adsorption in biological fluid samples. In this study, we aim to creating a modified electrode with excellent resistance to protein fouling. Herein, we have developed an antifouling electrochemical dopamine sensing interface integrated hydrophilicity hyaluronic acid (HA) with curcumin/multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CM/MWCNTs) via a facile method. The HA integrated with CM/MWCNTs composites-based electrochemical sensor exhibited synergistic effects: (i) the abundant hydrophilic groups in the HA structure (water contact angle, 30.88°) facilitated the formation of a hydrated layer on the electrode surface to prevent fouling; (ii) CM/MWCNTs catalyzed the electrooxidation of dopamine; (iii) electrostatic interactions between the negatively charged HA/CM/MWCNTs and positively charged dopamine in neutral condition. The morphology and structure of the nanocomposite were characterized. The HA/CM/MWCNTs-modified electrode exhibited the improved hydrophilicity with a water contact angle of 30.92° and enhanced electrochemical response of the modified electrode for dopamine sensing in a variety of conditions with protein in the electrolyte. Moreover, the HA/CM/MWCNTs-modified sensor also exhibited superior dopamine analytical performance in human serum samples, with the dopamine detection accuracy approaching 97 % and be interference-free from proteins. The constructed electrochemical sensor presented great potential in dopamine detection in clinic setups. [Display omitted] • A green and facile approach to synthesis of HA/CM/MWCNTs complex • The as-prepared sensor has excellent resistance to protein contamination. • The complex exhibits superior electrocatalytic activity for dopamine. • The constructed sensor is used for analysis of the human serum samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complex sample matrix poses significant challenges in accurately detecting heavy metals. In view of its superior performance for the biological adsorption of heavy metals, probiotic bacteria can be explored for functional unit to eliminate matrix interference. Herein, Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG) demonstrates a remarkable tolerance and can adsorb up to 300 μM of Hg2+, following the Freundlich isotherm model with the correlation coefficient (R2) value of 0.9881. Subsequently, by integrating the CRISPR/Cas12a system, a sensitive and specific fluorescent biosensor, "Cas12a-MB," has been developed for Hg2+ detection. Specifically, Hg2+ adsorbed onto LGG can specifically bind to the nucleic acid probe, thereby inhibiting the binding of the probe to LGG and the subsequent activation of the CRISPR/Cas12a system. Under optimal experimental conditions, with the detection time of 90 min and the detection limit of 0.44 nM, the "Cas12a-MB" biosensor offers a novel, eco-friendly approach for Hg2+ detection, showcasing the innovative application of probiotics in biosensor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anammox has received increased attention due to its enhanced and cost-efficient approach to nitrogen removal. However, its practical application is complicated by strict influent NO 2 −-N to NH 4 +-N ratio demands and an 11% nitrate production from the anammox process. This study was the first known research to propose and verify a system of zeolite integrated with partial denitrification and anammox (Z-PDA) in an up-flow anaerobic sludge bed (UASB) reactor. The enhanced and robust nitrogen removal resulted in an ultra-high nitrogen removal efficiency (NRE, 93.0 ± 2.0%). Zeolite adsorption and biological desorption of ammonium contributed to robust nitrogen removal with fluctuating influent NO 2 −-N to NH 4 +-N ratios. Applying 16S rRNA gene sequencing found that Candidatus Brocadia and Thauera were the key bacteria responsible for anammox and partial denitrification (PD), respectively. Zeolite also acted as a biological carrier. This significantly enriched anammox bacteria with a higher relative abundance of Candidatus Brocadia , reaching 49.2%. Metagenomic analysis demonstrated that the multiple functional genes related to nitrogen removal (nrfA/H, narG/H/I) and the metabolic pathways (Biosynthesis of cofactors, the Two-component system, the Biosynthesis of nucleotide sugars, and Purine metabolism) ensured the resilience of the Z-PDA system despite influent fluctuations. Overall, this study provided novel insights into the impacts of zeolite in the PDA system. It described the fundamental mechanism of zeolite based on adsorption and biological desorption, and demonstrated a meaningful application of the anammox process in sewage treatment. [Display omitted] • Zeolite integrated with partial denitrification and anammox (Z-PDA) system is proposed. • An ultra-high and enhanced nitrogen removal efficiency (93.0 ± 2.0%) was achieved. • Zeolite played dual role as biological carrier and ammonium reservoir. • Zeolite adsorption and biological desorption of ammonium improved nitrogen removal. • Candidatus Brocadia (49.2%) was highly enriched on the zeolite biofilm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An effective FCW with foamed glass and cattails with buoyant body developed. • Foamed glass can be used as a planting substrate for cattails. • FCW showed high potential for continuous removal of recalcitrant organic matter. • Effects of installing FCW to landfill in Thailand was simulated. • Simulation indicated 10 % coverage ratio achieved the effluent standard in Thailand. The development of simple and economical treatment technologies for the removal of recalcitrant organic matter is required to achieve long-term and sustainable treatment of landfill leachates in tropical regions. In this study, we evaluated the fundamental properties required to develop the floating constructed wetland (FCW), which consists of a buoyant planting unit made of foamed glass and cattails. The results showed that foamed glass alone can be used as a planting substrate for cattails. Treatment of a synthetic landfill leachate by a lab-scale FCW demonstrated that the test system effectively and continuously removed recalcitrant organic matter, whereas the control system did not. This removal by FCW was shown to proceed through nearly equal contributions from adsorption and potential biological processes. Furthermore, the effect of introducing an FCW in an actual waste landfill site in Thailand was simulated using the parameters obtained from this study. The simulation indicated that the introduction of the FCW into the stabilisation pond was effective in reducing both leachate volume and recalcitrant organic matter. It is important to determine how much of the stabilisation pond should be covered with the FCW for cost-effectiveness. The FCW is expected to contribute to improving long-term, sustainable, and appropriate management of landfill leachate in tropical developing countries. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfide-carbonate-mineralized functional bacterial consortium was constructed for flue gas cadmium biomineralization. A membrane biofilm reactor (MBfR) using the bacterial consortium containing sulfate reducing bacteria (SRB) and denitrifying bacteria (DNB) was investigated for flue gas cadmium (Cd) removal. Cadmium removal efficiency achieved 90%. The bacterial consortium containing Citrobacter , Desulfocurvus and Stappia were dominated for cadmium resistance-nitrate-sulfate reduction. Under flue gas cadmium stress, ten cadmium resistance genes (czcA , czcB , czcC , czcD , cadA , cadB , cadC , cueR , copZ , zntA), and seven genes related to sulfate reduction, increased in abundance; whereas others, nine genes related to denitrification, decreased, indicating that cadmium stress was advantageous to sulfate reduction in the competition with denitrification. A bacterial consortium could capable of simultaneously cadmium resistance, sulfate reduction and denitrification. Microbial induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) and biological adsorption process would gradually yield to sulfide-mineralized process. Flue gas cadmium could transform to Cd-EPS, cadmium carbonate (CdCO 3) and cadmium sulfide (CdS) bioprecipitate. The functional bacterial consortium was an efficient and eco-friendly bifunctional bacterial consortium for sulfide-carbonate-mineralized of cadmium. This provides a green and low-carbon advanced treatment technology using sulfide-carbonate-mineralized functional bacterial consortium for the removal of cadmium or other hazardous heavy metal contaminants in flue gas. [Display omitted] • Sulfide-carbonate-mineralized functional bacterial consortium for cadmium biomineralization. • Cadmium stress was advantageous to sulfate reduction in the competition with denitrification. • MICP and biosorption process would gradually yield to sulfide-mineralized process. • Flue gas cadmium was biostabilized as CdCO 3 and CdS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) contamination of groundwater has traditionally been an environmental issue of great concern due to its bioaccumulative and highly toxic nature. This paper presents a review and bibliometric analysis of the literature on the interest area "Cr(VI) in groundwater" published in the Web of Science Core Collection from 1999 to 2022. First, information on 203 actual Cr(VI)-contaminated groundwater sites around the world was summarized, and the basic characteristics of the sources and concentrations of contamination were derived. 68.95% of the sites were due to human causes and 56.43% of these sites had Cr(VI) concentrations in the range of 0–10 mg/L. At groundwater sites with high Cr(VI) contamination due to natural causes, 75.00% of the sites had Cr(VI) concentrations less than 0.2 mg/L. A total of 936 papers on "Cr(VI) in groundwater" were retrieved for bibliometric analysis: interest in research on Cr(VI) in groundwater has grown rapidly in recent years; 59.4% of the papers were published in the field of environmental sciences. A systematic review of the progress of studies on the Cr(VI) removal/remediation based on reduction, adsorption and biological processes is presented. Out of 666 papers on Cr(VI) removal/remediation, 512, 274, and 75 papers dealt with the topics of reduction, adsorption, and bioremediation, respectively. In addition, several studies have demonstrated the potential applicability of natural attenuation in the remediation of Cr(VI)-contaminated groundwater. This paper will help researchers to understand and investigate methodological strategies to remove Cr(VI) from groundwater in a more targeted and effective manner. [Display omitted] • 56.4% of human-contaminated groundwater with Cr(VI) concentrations below 10 mg/L. • 75.0% of nature-contaminated groundwater with Cr(VI) concentrations below 0.2 mg/L. • Reduction and zero-valent iron were the most frequently used keywords. • Reduction (76.8%) is the main method for Cr(VI) removal or remediation. • 260 out of 666 Cr(VI) removal papers in groundwater involve zero-valent iron. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flue gas cadmium emission during sludge incineration damages to the health of humans and ecological environment due to its toxic, persistent, and bioaccumulation. Cadmium removal in flue gas based on microbial induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) was investigated using a denitrifying membrane biofilm reactor (DBR). Cadmium removal efficiency obtained 89.8%. Caenispirillum , Halomonas , Stappia , Thauera were the dominant aerobic denitrifiers, which carried twelve cadmium resistance genes (czcA, czcB, czcC, czcD, cadA, cadC, cmtR, cueR, copZ, ctpC, zipB, zntA), and expressed six cadmium resistant proteins (ZntA, CzcA, CtpA, CopZ, CopR and CopB) and ten denitrifying proteins(NarG, NarH, Nar I, NapA, NapB, NirK, NirS, NorB, NorC, NosZ), those proteins regulated binding, transport, exportation of cadmium and denitrification. The upregulation of nitrate reductase and nitrite reductase indicated that cadmium could promote the reduction of NO 3 - to NO, as shown by an integrated metagenomic and metaproteomic sequencing. Cadmium speciation of biofilms, such as cadmium carbonate, increased in proportion, whereas others, such as organic matter-bound cadmium, decreased. The biological adsorption process would gradually yield to MICP process. The MICP stabilized cadmium in flue gas mainly by precipitating Cd through sodium succinate-induced carbonate precipitation. Flue gas cadmium could transform to cadmium carbonate bioprecipitate; carboxyl, hydroxyl and amine groups in cell surface and humic acid could complex cadmium to form Cd-EPS. Denitrifying bacteria could induce MICP process to stabilize cadmium in flue gas. This provides a green and low-cost DBR process as advanced treatment technology for remove cadmium from flue gas. • The membrane bioreactor achieved cadmium removal in flue gas from sludge incineration. • Denitrifying bacteria could induce MICP process to stabilize cadmium in flue gas. • Cadmium resistance proteins and denitrifying enzymes cope with cadmium stress. • The mechanism for cadmium removal in flue gas was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In part 1 of this study, the authors showed that coating polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) provisional restorations with bonding resin (BR) or liquid polish (LP) significantly reduced early in vivo biofilm formation on these restorations. The aim of the present study was to determine the mechanism through which these materials inhibit biofilm formation. Method and Materials: The antimicrobial properties of the tested materials were examined using the agar diffusion test (ADT) and the direct contact test (DCT). Surface energy was determined using contact angle measurements; salivary protein adsorption was analyzed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Results: ADT and DCT showed that the tested materials had no antimicrobial properties. Contact angle measurements revealed that liquid polish and PMMA have a similar contact angle, tending toward the hydrophobic region, and that bonding resin was more hydrophilic. SDS-PAGE analysis showed a significant reduction in salivary protein adsorption to the tested materials compared with that to the PMMA control. Conclusion: Liquid polish prevents biofilm formation by preventing protein adsorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The textile industry is the key user of dyes and hence the major source of water pollution, which harm aquatic as well as human life. Dead leaves of Conocarpus L. were collected in order to preparethe activated carbon. The first part of the collected leaves was functionalized with nitric acid and the second one was treated with EDTA-Na2. Experiments of adsorption were conducted at lab as a function of pH, contact time and initial dye concentration. The results showed that the maximum removal efficiency of the disperse yellow with a percentage of 94.11% and adsorption per unit mass with a value of 5.64 mg/l by activated carbon functionalized with the nitric acid was found in the acidic medium. The activated carbon that prepared from Conocarpus L. functionalized proved to be a new promised efficient adsorbent for the removal of the disperse yellow from its solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the authors attempted to present a detailed study on the adsorption of bovine hemoglobin (BHB) by sulfonated polystyrene nanospheres (SPS NSs). The adsorption characteristics including adsorption isotherms, kinetics and thermodynamics were studied in detail. The adsorption isotherms were better fitted by the Langmuir model, leading to a remarkable adsorption capacity of 2831.4 mg g−1. Such an adsorption capacity is among the highest values reported in the literature. The adsorption kinetics was analyzed by the pseudo‐first‐order, pseudo‐second‐order and intra‐particle diffusion equations. The thermodynamic parameters including binding site, binding affinity, and changes of enthalpy, entropy and Gibbs free energy were determined by isothermal titration calorimetry measurements. The electrostatic interaction of BHB and SPS NSs was identified as the major adsorption mechanism. The effects of solution pH, temperature and competitive metal ions in the adsorption process were studied. Based on the Arrhenius equation, the activation energy of the adsorption process was determined to be 2.34 kJ mol−1. Sulfonated polystyrene nanospheres (SPS NSs) were used to extract bovine hemoglobin (BHB) from aqueous solutions via electrostatic interaction. The adsorption isotherms were better fitted by the Langmuir model, leading to a remarkable adsorption capacity of 2831.4 mg g−1. Such an adsorption capacity is among the highest values reported in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adsorption/desorption characteristics, modeling and properties of anthocyanins from extruded red cabbage juice by macroporous resins were investigated. The static adsorption and desorption capacities of red cabbage anthocyanins on five macroporous resins were measured and compared. The X-5 resin showed the best capacities and was selected for the adsorption kinetics, isotherms and elution studies. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm model were used to describe the adsorption process and mechanism. Dynamic adsorption and desorption tests were performed on a fixed-bed column, and the loading and eluent conditions were optimized. The purity of anthocyanins in freeze-dried purified powder by the resin adsorption process is 21.3 ± 0.9 wt % and shows better stability in the air than the unpurified one. Finally, the antioxidant activity and color properties including color density, color intensity, color tonality and degradation index of the purified powders were measured. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Focus on protein adsorption on Mg and Mg alloys. • Influence on corrosion properties and corrosion layer formation. • Different protein solutions affect surface reactions. • Corrosion inhibition or promoting effect of proteins. • Interactions between calcium phosphate layers and proteins discussed. Abstract The initial interaction of biomaterials with the biological environment is based on the adsorption of proteins on the surface and the interaction with ions and water molecules to form various reactive interfaces. Understanding the protein adsorption mechanisms, kinetics, and thermodynamics is essential to improve the design of new biocompatible materials and to control protein interaction with solid surfaces. Magnesium and its alloys are promising materials for biodegradable metallic devices due to several advantages, including reduced stress shielding effect in the case of orthopedic implants, and removing the requirement of a second surgery for implant removal. Appropriate protein adsorption on magnesium and Mg alloys is essential for applications in bone tissue regeneration and for the effective integration of Mg implants. In this review, we summarize and discuss previous studies on magnesium-protein interactions, including the adsorption of proteins on Mg surfaces as well as the influence of proteins on Mg corrosion. In most cases, the influence of protein adsorption on magnesium corrosion was determined using polarization curves, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results show inhibited degradation due to insoluble salt formation (barrier layer) or formation of unstable and porous layers followed by higher corrosion rates depending on the substrate (cpMg or alloys) and/or media. A comparison of the use of different solutions on surface reactions (with and without proteins) is presented and the influence of corrosion layer formation is discussed. In this review, the influence of substrate and media on corrosion mechanism and protein adsorption on magnesium and magnesium alloys is highlighted, which significantly affects the in-vivo and in-vitro corrosion behavior, being thus of high relevance for the application of Mg and Mg alloys in medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract Once introduced into physiological environment, nanoparticles (NPs) are immediately coated with proteins, resulting in formation of what is known as protein corona. The formation of protein corona can be affected by many factors. Likewise, the addition of protein corona can alter the physicochemical properties and biodistribution of NPs. NPs with the coating protein corona can be considered as a biological identity that recognized by cells in biological system. Thus, to understand and regulate the effect of protein corona on targeting capability of NPs in vivo, it is necessary to elucidate the interaction between the NPs and the biological fluid. In this review, we first elucidate the factors influencing the formation of protein corona, including NPs physicochemical factors, such as NPs composition, size, shape, surface chemistry, etc., and environmental factors, such as environmental temperature, protein origins, etc. Then, we focus on the effect of protein corona on the passive targeting and active targeting, and discuss the probable reasons that causing the discrepant results. Finally, we review the strategies for tuning the protein corona to promote targeting, including reducing protein adsorption and recruiting specific proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract Interactions between bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) and biomaterial surfaces are of great significance in the fields of regenerative medicine and bone tissue engineering. In this work, the adsorption and desorption behaviors of BMP-2 on a series of nano-textured hydroxyapatite (HAP) surfaces were systematically investigated by combined molecular dynamic (MD) simulations and steered molecular dynamic (SMD) simulations. The textured HAP surfaces exhibited nanostructured topographies and played a critical role in the mediation of dynamic behaviors of BMP-2. Compared to the HAP-flat model, the HAP-1:1 group (means ridge vs groove = 1:1) showed the excellent ability to capture BMP-2, less conformation change of BMP-2 molecule, and high cysteine-knot stability during the adsorption and desorption processes. These findings suggest that nano-textured HAP surfaces are more capable of loading BMP-2 molecules, and most importantly, they can help maintain a higher biological activity of BMP-2 cargos. In the present study, for the first time, we have deeply clarified the adsorption and desorption dynamics of BMP-2 on various nano-textured HAP surfaces at the atomic level, which can provide significant guidelines for the future design of BMP-2-based tissue engineering implants/scaffolds. Statement of Significance By using combined molecular dynamic (MD) simulations and steered molecular dynamic (SMD) simulations, the adsorption and desorption dynamics of bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) dimer on a series of nano-textured hydroxyapatite (HAP) surfaces at the atomic level were presented in details for the first time. We have proved that the HAP-1:1 model (means ridge vs groove = 1:1) possessed excellent ability to capture BMP-2, less conformation change, and high cysteine-knot stability. As a result, the nano-textured topography of HAP-1:1 could maintain a relatively high biological activity of BMP-2 cargos. This work could provide theoretical guidelines for the design of BMP-2-based implants/scaffolds for bone tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper the amino-modified mesoporous silica (SBA-NH 2 ) was investigated as a potential bifunctional drug delivery system for cefazolin with both prolonged drug release and mineralization properties. The primary SBA-15 was synthesized using sol-gel method and surface functionalization was carried out using post-synthesis grafting. The obtained SBA-NH 2 was characterized by higher adsorption efficiency of cefazolin with drug release prolonged to 7 days compared to primary SBA-15. The amino-modified SBA-15 exhibited also mineralization potential after immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF) with delayed hydroxycarbonate apatite (HCA) formation compared to SBA-15 which did not interrupt the cefazolin release in controlled manner. A bone-mineral-mimicking layer of HCA was formed on the SBA-NH 2 surface after 28 days in SBF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the magnetic reduced graphene oxide (RGO/Fe3O4), with easy separation and high adsorption performance, was prepared and used to treat glyphosate (GLY) contaminated water. GLY adsorption performance of RGO/Fe3O4 was investigated, and influences of pH, adsorption time, temperature, contaminant concentration, and competing anions were analyzed. Moreover, the adsorption mechanism was discussed in the light of several characterization methods, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectrum (EDS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results demonstrated that the RGO/Fe3O4 presented a significant GLY adsorption capacity and acid condition was beneficial for this adsorption. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the Langmuir model correlated satisfactorily to the experimental data, indicating that this process was controlled by chemical adsorption and monolayer adsorption. Thermodynamic studies revealed that the adsorption of glyphosate onto RGO/Fe3O4 was spontaneous, endothermic, and feasible process. High temperatures were beneficial to GLY adsorption. The GLY adsorption mechanism of RGO/Fe3O4 was mainly attributed to hydrogen-bond interaction, electrostatic interaction, and coordination. Therefore, the RGO/Fe3O4 investigated in this research may offer an attractive adsorbent candidate for treatment of glyphosate contaminated water and warrant further study as a mechanism for glyphosate efficient removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The need in simultaneous removal of heavy metals and organic compounds dictates the development of synthetic adsorbents with tailor-made properties. A nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) co-doped graphene-based aerogel (GBA) modified with 2,5-dithiobisurea was synthesized hydrothermally for simultaneous adsorption of Cd2+ and organic dyes—safranin-O (SO), crystal violet (CV), and methylene blue (MB). 2,5-Dithiobisurea was used as nitrogen and sulfur sources to introduce N and S-containing functional group onto graphene oxide. The adsorption mechanism of GBA towards Cd2+ and organic dyes was studied by Dumwald-Wagner models and the results showed that surface and intraparticle diffusion was the key factor in controlling the rate of adsorption. The maximum adsorption capacities of GBA towards Cd2+, SO, CV, and MB comprised 1.755, 0.949, 0.538, and 0.389 mmol/g in monocomponent system, respectively. Adsorption synergism was observed with respect to Cd2+ in presence of the dyes. The performance of GBA with respect to Cd2+ removal from binary solutions, Cd2+-SO, Cd2+-CV, and Cd2+-MB, was enhanced by the presence of the dyes significantly, while the adsorption capacities towards the dyes were not affected by the presence of Cd2+. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Formation of protein-resistant surfaces is a major challenge in the design of novel biomaterials and an important strategy to prevent protein adsorption is the formation of protein-resistant coatings. It can be achieved by proper modification of surfaces, e.g., by immobilization of hydrophilic polymers such as poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). An appropriate method to immobilize PEG at charged surfaces is the adsorption of copolymers with PEG chains grafted onto polyelectrolyte backbone. The growing interest in the use of polyelectrolyte multilayer coatings in biomedical applications to improve biocompatibility and/or to prepare coating with antiadhesive properties has been the main reason for these studies. Therefore the aim was to produce protein resistant polyelectrolyte multilayer films. They were formed via the layer-by-layer approach, while their pegylation by the deposition of pegylated polyanion, PGA-g-PEG, as an external layer. The influence of PEG chain length and grafting density of PGA-g-PEG copolymers on the protein antiadhesive properties of pegylated polyelectrolyte multilayer films was investigated. To monitor the formation of pegylated and non-pegylated multilayer films, adsorption of the following proteins: HSA, Fibrinogen, and FBS were measured by quartz crystal microbalance (QCM − D). We found that protein adsorption onto all pegylated polyelectrolyte multilayers was significantly reduced in comparison to non-pegylated ones. Long-term performance tests confirmed the stability and the durability of the protein resistant properties of the pegylated multilayers. Antiadhesive properties of tested surfaces pegylated by PGA-g-PEG were compared to the available data for pegylated polycation PLL-g-PEG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experiments investigating the adsorption and desorption of cytochrome c onto and from liposomes containing 50 mol% 1,2-diacylphosphatidylglycerol lipids [10:0, 12:0, 14:0, 16:0, 18:1(Δ9 cis)] with 1,2-dioleoyl- sn -glycero-3-phosphatidylcholine (DOPC) in pH 7.4 buffered solutions of low to moderate ionic strength are reported. Fluorescence experiments show that cytochrome c has a similar adsorption affinity for the five labeled 50 mol% PG liposome systems investigated. Fluorescence recovery experiments reveal the extent of cytochrome c desorption upon the addition of >10× excess of unlabeled 100% 1,2-dioleoyl- sn -glycero-3-phosphatidylglycerol (DOPG) liposomes is dependent on the lipid's acyl chain length. The extent of desorption is also shown to be independent of temperature, albeit over a narrow range. The differences in the extent of cytochrome c desorption from liposomes containing PG lipids with different acyl chain lengths is attributed to the varying contribution of the binding motif involving the extended lipid anchorage in response to lipid packing stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Binding of DNA/RNA nucleobases, aromatic amino acids and heterocyclic molecules on two-dimensional silicene and germanene sheets have been investigated for the application of sensing of biomolecules using first principle density functional theory calculations. Binding energy range for nucleobases, amino acids and heterocyclic molecules with both the sheets have been found to be (0.43–1.16 eV), (0.70–1.58 eV) and (0.22–0.96 eV) respectively, which along with the binding distances show that these molecules bind to both sheets by physisorption and chemisorption process. The exchange of electric charges between the monolayers and the incident molecules has been examined by means of Bader charge analysis. It has been observed that the introduction of DNA/RNA nucleobases, aromatic amino acids and heterocyclic molecules alters the electronic properties of both silicene and germanene nano sheets as studied by plotting the total (TDOS) and partial (PDOS) density of states. The DOS plots reveal the variation in the band gaps of both silicene and germanene caused by the introduction of studied molecules. Based on the obtained results we suggest that both silicene and germanene monolayers in their pristine form could be useful for sensing of biomolecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein adsorption on solid surfaces play a crucial role in many biological applications. While extensive experimental studies have revealed the dynamics of protein adsorption in detail using newly developed experimental techniques, mathematical modeling approaches provide illustrative insight of such complex processes, which are often difficult to describe experimentally. To advance our understanding of dynamic protein behaviors at interfaces between proteins and solid surfaces, there are needs for additional information about such complex phenomena, especially conformational changes in protein mixture system. In this review, we will briefly describe competitive protein adsorption process (known as ‘Vroman effect’) and provide a brief overview of some important mathematical modeling approaches to advance our knowledge of the dynamic adsorption/desorption processes and highlight the need for experimental methods to determine the extent of conformational changes and the rate of conformational change of adsorbed proteins at the surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate efficiency of adsorption of chitins of marine and freshwater shrimps, three commercial chitosan and chitosan produced in laboratory in the removal of total ammonia synthetic effluents with different initial concentrations of ammonia and natural aquaculture effluents. The adsorbents were characterized in relation to degree of deacetylation, specific surface area and porosity, surface characteristics of particles, chemical composition and semicrystalline structure. Were performed adsorbent dosage effect tests in different initial concentrations of ammonia of the synthetic effluent and in removal of total ammonia effluents aquaculture per adsorption. All dosages of commercial chitosans 1 and 2 tested removed 100% at the smaller initial concentration of ammonia (0.09 mg L − 1 ). The samples of marine shrimp chitin, freshwater shrimp chitin, commercial chitosan 3 and chitosan obtained in the laboratory were not efficient in the process of adsorption of ammonia from synthetic effluent. The removal of total ammonia from aquaculture effluents 1 and 2 was immediate (100%), which is related to the greater surface area of the adsorbent. Commercial chitosan 2 proved to be more efficient in the process of adsorption of total ammonia, removing up to 94.33% of ammonia from synthetic wastewater with initial concentration 7.35 mg L − 1 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considerable researches have proved that, to a great extent, high death rate of lung cancer is on account of its crypticity in the early stage, and detection of typical exhaled gases of possible patients has emerged as an effective and workable method to realize the prognosis of lung cancer. In this paper, the adsorption of the three typical exhaled components, namely, C6H6, C8H8, and C5H8, of lung cancer patients on the anatase TiO2 (101) surface was simulated based on the density functional theory method in order to recommend TiO2 nanotube arrays as sensing materials to fulfill this aim. Analysis based on adsorbing parameters, frontier molecular orbital theory, and density of states congruously implies that the anatase TiO2 (101) surface possesses certain sensitivity to these three gases, especially to C8H8 which possesses the best activity to be adsorbed on the proposed surface. Our experimental study showed great consensus with the theoretical calculations. Therefore, TiO2 nanotube arrays can be applied as proper gas-sensing material for the preparation of lung cancer prognosis sensors as a family device to realize the simple and convenient detection of lung cancer in our daily life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three voltammetric techniques are dealt with and compared in this work: first the linear scan voltammetry and next the staircase voltammetry used together with current sampling or current averaging on each step of the staircase signal. First, it can be stated that the averaged-current staircase voltammetry provides the same current data as a linear potential ramp, at the same potential scan rate, for any linear and time-invariant electrical/electrochemical dipole/system. Next, most electrochemical systems being nonlinear, the second aim is to show, through numerical simulation, that averaged-current staircase voltammograms well match linear scan voltammograms, taking the example of electrochemical reactions involving adsorbed species. Based on the relevant voltammetric models, theoretical investigation is carried out taking into account the Langmuir or Frumkin isotherm for adsorption, the reaction kinetics, the uncompensated resistance of the electrolyte, and the interfacial double-layer charging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resonant microcantilevers are being actively investigated as sensitive mass sensors for biological detection. By performing experiments of adsorption of the bacteria Escherichia coli on singly clamped microcantilevers, we demonstrate that the effect of the added mass is not the only and may not be the main origin of the response of these sensors. The experiments show that the magnitude and sign of resonance frequency shift both depend critically on the distribution of the adsorbed bacterial cells on the cantilever. We relate this behavior to the added mass that shifts the resonance to lower frequencies and the higher effective flexural rigidity of the cantilever due to the bacteria stiffness that shifts the resonance to higher frequencies. Both effects can be uncoupled by positioning the cells where each effect dominates, near the free cantilever end for measuring the added mass or near the clamping for measuring the increase of flexural rigidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the distribution of polyglycidol and polystyrene on the surface of poly(styrene/α- tert -butoxy-ω-vinylbenzyl-polyglycidol) microspheres (random distribution or segregated into hydrophilic and hydrophobic patches), using fibrinogen (Fb) as a macromolecular probe. The fibrinogen was adsorbed or covalently attached to the surface of the poly(styrene- co -α- tert -butoxy-ω-vinylbenzyl-polyglycidol) (P(S/PGLy)) microspheres. The P(S/PGLy) particles were prepared by emulsion copolymerization of styrene and α- tert -butoxy-ω-vinylbenzyl-polyglycidol (PGLy) macromonomer initiated with potassium persulfate. The polymerizations yielded P(S/PGLy) particles with various surface fractions of polyglycidol, depending on the amount of added macromonomer and the addition process. In some syntheses, the entire macromonomer amount was added once at the beginning of the polymerization, while in others, the macromonomer was added gradually after the formation of particle seeds from pure polystyrene. XPS studies revealed that the fraction of polyglycidol in the interfacial layer of the microspheres was larger when the entire amount of macromonomer was added at the beginning of the polymerization than when it was added after formation of the polystyrene seeds. Studies of fibrinogen adsorption provided the first evidence of segregation of the hydrophobic (polystyrene) and hydrophilic (polyglycidol) components at the surface of the composite P(S/PGLy) microspheres into patches. The hydrophobic patches are composed mainly of polystyrene. However, they also contain a small amount of polyglycidol chains, making the adsorption of fibrinogen weaker than the adsorption onto the pure polystyrene. Studies of covalent immobilization of fibrinogen on the microspheres via 1,3,5-trichlorotriazine confirmed these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To help baicalin pass across BBB and improve its targeting in brain, we designed a novel formulation strategy of baicalin nanocrystals that preferentially adsorbing apolipoprotein E (ApoE) and repelling protein adsorption of opsonins. Intravenous baicalin nanocrystals suspensions (BCL-NS) modified by different surfactant were prepared by high-pressure homogenization. The targeting potential of surface-modified BCL-NS with mean particles size of about 250 nm was assessed by in vitro protein adsorption studies using two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2-D PAGE), and further evaluated in vivo pharmacokinetics. The protein adsorption results showed that BCL-NS/TPGS, BCL-NS/TW80 and BCL-NS/TPGS + TW80 adsorbed very high amounts of apolipoproteins (ApoA-I, ApoA-Ⅱ, ApoA-IV, ApoC-III, ApoE, ApoJ) and relative low amounts of opsonins (fibrinogen, immunoglobulin heavy chain gamma, immunoglobulin light chain). The pharmacokinetics results demonstrated the AUC (0-∞) in brain of the BCL-NS/TW80 + TPGS was 6.67 times as high as that of the BCL solution, and 2.59 times as high as that of the BCL-NS/TW80. It could be attributed to the most ApoE and Apo J adsorption indicative of strong BBB penetration, and least IgG γ and fibrinogen loading minimizing the risk of hepatic uptake. Combination of TW80 and TPGS can be rational choice of surfactants of baicalin nanocrystals for brain-targeting mediated by ApoE adsorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methylmercaptan (MM) is a marker of periodontal disease; however, the required sensitivity for MM is parts per billion, which has been challenging to realize with a simple sensor. Here, we report the capability to detect MM at concentrations as low as 20 ppb using layered manganese oxide nanosheets with a quartz crystal microbalance sensor. The sensing capabilities of the manganese oxide nanosheets are promoted by adsorbed water present on and between the nanosheets. The strong adsorption of MM to the sensor, which is necessary for the high sensitivity, leads to significant hysteresis in the response on cycling due to irreversible adsorption. However, the sensor can be readily reset by heating to 80 °C, which leads to highly reproducible response to MM vapor at low concentrations. A key aspect of this sensor design is the high selectivity toward MM in comparison to other compounds such as ethanol, ammonia, acetaldehyde, acetic acid, toluene, and pyridine. This layered nanosheets design for high-sensitivity sensors, demonstrated here for dilute MM, holds significant promise for addressing needs to identify sulfur compounds associated for environmental protection and medical diagnostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous magnesium oxide as the adsorbent of phosphate was prepared by hexamethylene tetramine (HMT) assisted hydrothermal method. Various techniques were used to carefully characterize crystallinity structure, morphology, pore structure, and adsorption performance of the prepared MgO samples. The results show that the HMT plays a key role during the formation of pore structure of MgO materials. The BET surface area and pore size were varied as a function of the feeding ratio of HMT and Mg 2+ in the synthesis system. When the ratio is equal to 1.2, the obtained MgO sample has the appropriate BET surface area of 181.02 m 2 g −1 and the averaged pore diameter of ca. 10.76 nm, which shows the highest adsorption capacity of 236 mg g −1 among the prepared samples and the outstanding adsorption performance compared with those reported in the literature. The adsorption of these porous MgO materials matches well the pseudo second order kinetic model and the Freundlich isotherms. Besides, the phosphate anions was adsorbed on MgO to produce magnesium hydrogen phosphate and magnesium phosphate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycoproteins adsorbing on an implant upon contact with body fluids can affect the biological response in vitro and in vivo, depending on the type and conformation of the adsorbed biomacromolecules. However, this process is poorly characterized and so far not controllable. Here, protein monolayers of high molecular cohesion with defined density are transferred onto polymeric substrates by the Langmuir-Schaefer (LS) technique and were compared with solution deposition (SO) method. It is hypothesized that on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a substrate with poor cell adhesion capacity, the fibronectin (FN) layers generated by the LS and SO methods will differ in their organization, subsequently facilitating differential stem cell adhesion behavior. Indeed, atomic force microscopy visualization and immunofluorescence images indicated that organization of the FN layer immobilized on PDMS was uniform and homogeneous. In contrast, FN deposited by SO method was rather heterogeneous with appearance of structures resembling protein aggregates. Human mesenchymal stem cells showed reduced absolute numbers of adherent cells, and the vinculin expression seemed to be higher and more homogenously distributed after seeding on PDMS equipped with FN by LS in comparison with PDMS equipped with FN by SO. These divergent responses could be attributed to differences in the availability of adhesion molecule ligands such as the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) peptide sequence presented at the interface. The LS method allows to control the protein layer characteristics, including the thickness and the protein orientation or conformation, which can be harnessed to direct stem cell responses to defined outcomes, including migration and differentiation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantification of adsorbed biomolecules (enzymes, proteins) at the cellulose interface is a major challenge in developing eco-friendly biodiagnostics. Here, a novel methodology is developed to visualize and quantify the adsorption of antibody from solution to the cellulose-liquid interface. The concept is to deuterate cellulose by replacing all nonexchangeable hydrogens from the glucose rings with deuterium in order to enhance the scattering contrast between the cellulose film surface and adsorbed antibody molecules. Deuterated cellulose (DC) was obtained from bacterial (Gluconacetobacter xylinus strain) cellulose, which was grown in heavy water (D2O) media with a deuterated glycerol as a carbon source. For comparison, hydrogenated cellulose (HC) was obtained from cellulose acetate. Both HC and DC thin films were prepared on silicon substrate by spin coating. X-ray reflectivity (XR) shows the formation of homogeneous and smooth film. Neutron reflectivity (NR) at the liquid/film interface reveals swelling of the cellulose film by a factor of 2-3× its initial thickness. An Immunoglobulin G (IgG), used as a model antibody, was adsorbed at the liquid-solid interface of cellulose (HC) and deuterated cellulose (DC) films under equilibrium and surface saturation conditions. NR measurements of the IgG antibody layer adsorbed onto the DC film can clearly be visualized, in sharp contrast in comparison to the HC film. The average thickness of the IgG adsorbed layer onto cellulose films is 127 ± 5 Å and a partial monolayer is formed. Visualization and quantification of adsorbed IgG is shown by large difference in scattering length density (SLD) between DC (7.1 × 10-6 Å-2) and IgG (4.1 × 10-6 Å-2) in D2O, which enhanced the scattering contrast in NR. Quartz crystal measurements (QCM-D) were used as a complementary method to NR to quantify the adsorbed IgG over the cellulose interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our previous studies indicated the suitability of tobacco plants for biomonitoring remediated depositories, due to their Po and Pb accumulation ability. The methods and requirements of testing Pb uptake by leaf-surface adsorption was investigated and implemented in the construction of a controlled environment. Uranium ore (theoretical Rn concentration 638 Bqm) was the main source of radon and progeny. Rn concentrations were measured by RAD7, AlphaGUARD, EQF 3220, RTM 2100 and CR-39 SSNTDs (411-516 Bqm). Activity concentrations of the attached and unattached fractions were determined by EQF 3220. The results are indicative of good measurement setup for tracking Po(Pb) uptake pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the composition of the adsorbed protein layer on a biomaterial surface is of an extreme importance as it directs the primary biological response. Direct detection using labeled proteins and indirect detection based on enzymatic assays or changes to mass, refractive index or density of a surface have been so far established. Nevertheless, using current methodologies, detection of multiple proteins simultaneously and particularly in a three-dimensional (3D) substrates is challenging, with the exception of radiolabeling. Here using fluorescence molecular tomography (FMT), we present a non-destructive and versatile approach to quantify adsorption of multiple proteins within 3D environments and reveal the dynamics of adsorption of human serum albumin (HSA) and fibrinogen (Fib) on 3D polymeric scaffold. Furthermore, we show that serum starved human articular chondrocytes in 3D environment preferentially uptake HSA over Fib and to our knowledge this represents the first example of direct visualization and quantification of protein adsorption in a 3D cell culture system. Statement of Significance The biomaterial surface upon exposure to biological fluids is covered by a layer of proteins, which is modified over a period of time and dictates the fate of the biomaterial. In this study, we present and validate a new methodology for quantification of protein adsorption on to a three-dimensional polymer scaffold from unitary and binary systems, using fluorescence molecular tomography, an optical trans-illumination technique with picomolar sensitivity. In additional to being able to follow behavior of two proteins simultaneously, this methodology is also suitable for studying protein uptake in cells situated in a polymer environment. The ability to follow protein adsorption/uptake in a continuous manner opens up new possibilities to study the role of serum proteins in biomaterial compatibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biomedical applications of nanoparticles are still impeded by the non-specific adsorption of proteins, cells, or others biological species in vivo/in vitro. In this work, poly( N -hydroxyethyl acrylamide) was hired to modify a solid polymer core, polystyrene (PS) nanoparticles, via surface-initiated photo-emulsion polymerization to form nano-sized spherical poly( N -hydroxyethyl acrylamide) brush (PS@PHEAA). Its antifouling ability and stability were investigated by dynamic light scattering (DLS), turbidimetric titration, and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). The size of PS@PHEAA was constant as a function of pH, while slightly changed with ionic strength in single protein solution. ITC data confirmed that protein was slightly adsorbed on PS@PHEAA and the ionic strength influenced the adsorption. All characterizations demonstrated that PHEAA layer reduced the interaction between nanoparticles and proteins. Thus, these nanoparticles ideal candidates for future applications in the biomedical field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic composites Fe 3 O 4 /Cu-BTC and Fe 3 O 4 /Cu-BTC/GO were one-step synthesized and characterized. It was found that GO can help Fe 3 O 4 encapsulated more homogeneously. Fe 3 O 4 /Cu-BTC particles were “sea-island” structure, while Fe 3 O 4 /Cu-BTC/GO particles were uniform spherical structure with a bigger size. It can be explained by the excellent hydrophilicity of GO. IBU loading and IBU release of different particles were compared. Fe 3 O 4 /Cu-BTC/GO was found to have larger IBU loading and better IBU release. It was concluded that addition of GO changed the adsorption mechanic for IBU, which strengthened the IBU loading and led to the lower IBU release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar amendment can alter soil properties, for instance, the ability to adsorb and degrade different chemicals. However, ageing of the biochar, due to processes occurring in the soil over time, can influence such biochar-mediated effects. This study examined how biochar affected adsorption and degradation of two herbicides, glyphosate (N-(phosphonomethyl)-glycine) and diuron (3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea) in soil and how these effects were modulated by ageing of the biochar. One sandy and one clayey soil that had been freshly amended with a wood-based biochar (0, 1, 10, 20 and 30% w/ w) were studied. An ageing experiment, in which the soil-biochar mixtures were aged for 3.5 months in the laboratory, was also performed. Adsorption and degradation were studied in these soil and soil-biochar mixtures, and compared to results from a soil historically enriched with charcoal. Biochar amendment increased the pH in both soils and increased the water-holding capacity of the sandy soil. Adsorption of diuron was enhanced by biochar amendment in both soils, while glyphosate adsorption was decreased in the sandy soil. Ageing of soil-biochar mixtures decreased adsorption of both herbicides in comparison with freshly biochar-amended soil. Herbicide degradation rates were not consistently affected by biochar amendment or ageing in any of the soils. However, glyphosate half-lives correlated with the Freundlich Kf values in the clayey soil, indicating that degradation was limited by availability there. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a mordenite-rich tuff (M) from the Şile region (NW Turkey) was treated with HNO 3 and H 2 SO 4 at various concentrations (1.0, 3.0 and 5.0 M) at 80 °C for 3 h. The adsorption properties of ethylene (C 2 H 4 ) and hydrogen (H 2 ) on natural and that of acid forms were examined experimentally at 273 and 77 K and up to 100 kPa using volumetric instrument, respectively. All the samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and nitrogen (N 2 ) adsorption methods. Some differences on XRD pattern were signed in between natural and acid modified samples according to the intensity, sharpness and crystallite degree of mordenite peaks. C 2 H 4 and H 2 adsorption capacities of the original and acid treated mordenites were in the range of 0.762–0.876 mmol g −1 and 1.373–1.672 mmol g −1 at 273 and 77 K, respectively. The increasing retention values of C 2 H 4 and H 2 after the acid treatments were analyzed in comparison with the structural changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]