Interactions of Bacterial Lipopolysaccharides with Gold Nanorod Surfaces Investigated by Refractometric Sensing

The interface between nanoparticles and bacterial surfaces is of great interest for applications in nanomedicine and food safety. Here, we demonstrate that interactions between gold nanorods and bacterial surface molecules are governed by the nanoparticle surface coating. Polymer-coated gold nanorod substrates are exposed to lipopolysaccharides extracted from Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli, and attachment is monitored using localized surface plasmon resonance refractometric sensing. The number of lipopolysaccharide molecules attached per nanorod is calculated from the shift in the plasmon maximum, which results from the change in refractive index after analyte binding. Colloidal gold nanorods in water are also incubated with lipopolysaccharides to demonstrate the effect of lipopolysaccharide concentration on plasmon shift, ζ-potential, and association constant. Both gold nanorod surface charge and surface chemistry affect gold nanorod-lipopolysaccharide interactions. In general, anionic lipopolysaccharides was found to attach more effectively to cationic gold nanorods than to neutral or anionic gold nanorods. Some variation in lipopolysaccharide attachment is also observed between the three strains studied, demonstrating the potential complexity of bacteria-nanoparticle interactions.

Functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles with redox-responsive short-chain gatekeepers for agrochemical delivery

The controlled release of salicylic acid (SA), a key phytohormone, was mediated by using a novel decanethiol gatekeeper system grafted onto mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs). The decanethiol was conjugated only to the external surfaces of the MSNs through glutathione (GSH)-cleavable disulfide linkages and the introduction of a process to assemble gatekeepers only on the outer surface so that the mesopore area can be maintained for high cargo loading. Raman and nitrogen sorption isotherm analyses confirmed the successful linkage of decanethiol to the surface of MSNs. The in vitro release of SA from decanethiol gated MSNs indicated that the release rate of SA in an environment with a certain amount of GSH was significantly higher than that without GSH. More importantly, in planta experiments showed the release of SA from decanethiol gated MSNs by GSH induced sustained expression of the plant defense gene PR-1 up to 7 days after introduction, while free SA caused an early peak in PR-1 expression which steadily decreased after 3 days. This study demonstrates the redox-responsive release of a phytohormone in vitro and also indicates the potential use of MSNs in planta as a controlled agrochemical delivery system.

Inkjet-printed microelectrodes on PDMS as biosensors for functionalized microfluidic systems

Microfluidic systems based on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) have gained popularity in recent years. However, microelectrode patterning on PDMS to form biosensors in microchannels remains a worldwide technical issue due to the hydrophobicity of PDMS and its weak adhesion to metals. In this study, an additive technique using inkjet-printed silver nanoparticles to form microelectrodes on PDMS is presented. (3-Mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane (MPTMS) was used to modify the surface of PDMS to improve its surface wettability and its adhesion to silver. The modified surface of PDMS is rendered relatively hydrophilic, which is beneficial for the silver droplets to disperse and thus effectively avoids the coalescence of adjacent droplets. Additionally, a multilevel matrix deposition (MMD) method is used to further avoid the coalescence and yield a homogeneous pattern on the MPTMS-modified PDMS. A surface wettability comparison and an adhesion test were conducted. The resulting silver pattern exhibited good uniformity, conductivity and excellent adhesion to PDMS. A three-electrode electrochemical biosensor was fabricated successfully using this method and sealed in a PDMS microchannel, forming a lab-on-a-chip glucose biosensing system.

Enhanced two-photon fluorescence imaging and therapy of cancer cells via Gold@bridged silsesquioxane nanoparticles

A two-photon photosensitizer with four triethoxysilyl groups is synthesized through the click reaction. This photosensitizer allows the design of bridged silsesquioxane (BS) nanoparticles through a sol-gel process; moreover, gold core BS shells or BS nanoparticles decorated with gold nanospheres are synthesized. An enhancement of the two-photon properties is noted with gold and the nanoparticles are efficient for two-photon imaging and two-photon photodynamic therapy of cancer cells.

Synthesis of a quantum nanocrystal-gold nanoshell complex for near-infrared generated fluorescence and photothermal decay of luminescence

Multifunction nanoparticle complexes have previously been developed to aid physicians in both diagnosis and treatment of cancerous tissue. Here, we designed a nanoparticle complex structure that consists of a plasmonically active hollow gold nanoshell core surrounded by photoluminescent quantum nanocrystals (QNs) in the form of PbS encapsulated by a silica layer. There are three main design variables including HGN synthesis and optical tuning, formation of the silica layer on the hollow gold nanoshell surface, and fabrication and photoluminescence tuning of PbS quantum nanocrystals. The hollow gold nanoshells were deliberately designed to function in the optical regimes that maximize tissue transmissivity (800 nm) and minimize tissue absorption (1100 nm). Secondly, several chemical ligands were tested such as (3-mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane and mercaptoundecanoic acid for controlled growth of the silica layer. Last, PbS QNs were synthesized and optimized with various capping agents, where the nanocrystals excited at the same wavelength were used to activate the photothermal properties of the hollow gold nanoshells. Upon irradiation of the complex with a lower power 800 nm laser, the nanocrystals luminesce at 1100 nm. At ablative temperatures the intrinsic luminescent properties of the QNs are altered and the luminescent output is significantly reduced (>70%). While this paper focuses on synthesis and optimization of the QN-HGN complex, in the future we believe that this novel particle complex design may have the potential to serve as a triple theranostic agent, which will aid satellite tumor localization, photothermal treatment, and ablative confirmation.

Investigation of the interfacial effects of small chemical-modified TiO2 nanotubes on 3T3 fibroblast responses

In order to gain insight into how interfacial effects influence cell responses, chemically modified anodized TiO2 nanotubes (ATNs) were used to simultaneously investigate the effects of nanoscale substrate structure and angstrom-scale chemicals on cell morphological change and cell growth. Two small chemicals were used to modify the ATNs, namely, 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (APTMS) and 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane (MPTMS), resulting in APTMS-modified ATNs (APTMS-ATNs) and MPTMS-modified ATNs (MPTMS-ATNs), respectively. In our in vitro observation of NIH/3T3 fibroblasts, cells thrived on both unmodified and modified ATNs. Quantitative analyses of cell numbers exhibited that APTMS-ATNs effectively facilitated cell proliferation and directed cell orientation owing to full cell-substrate contact caused by positively charged amino groups (-NH3(+)) on the surface. In addition, scanning electron microscopy and fluorescence images showed different cell morphologies on APTMS-ATNs and MPTMS-ATNs. APTMS-ATNs resulted in flat spreading of fibroblasts, while MPTMS-ATNs resulted in fibroblasts with a three-dimensional solid shape and clear contours. The results indicate that the synergistic effects of nanotube surface topology and small chemical modification and, to a lesser extent, surface hydrophilicity, alter the interfacial interactions between cells and substrates, significantly affecting cell morphology, attachment, and growth. Using ATNs with different interfacial effects from various small chemicals, orientation of cells into various patterns can be achieved and investigation of cell fates, such as proliferation or stem cell differentiation, can be performed for future advanced medical or biological applications.

Effects of surface wettability and liquid viscosity on the dynamic wetting of individual drops

In this paper, we experimentally investigated the dynamic spreading of liquid drops on solid surfaces. Drop of glycerol water mixtures and pure water that have comparable surface tensions (62.3-72.8 mN/m) but different viscosities (1.0-60.1 cP) were used. The size of the drops was 0.5-1.2 mm. Solid surfaces with different lyophilic and lyophobic coatings (equilibrium contact angle θ(eq) of 0°-112°) were used to study the effect of surface wettability. We show that surface wettability and liquid viscosity influence wetting dynamics and affect either the coefficient or the exponent of the power law that describes the growth of the wetting radius. In the early inertial wetting regime, the coefficient of the wetting power law increases with surface wettability but decreases with liquid viscosity. In contrast, the exponent of the power law does only depend on surface wettability as also reported in literature. It was further found that surface wettability does not affect the duration of inertial wetting, whereas the viscosity of the liquid does. For low viscosity liquids, the duration of inertial wetting corresponds to the time of capillary wave propagation, which can be determined by Lamb's drop oscillation model for inviscid liquids. For relatively high viscosity liquids, the inertial wetting time increases with liquid viscosity, which may due to the viscous damping of the surface capillary waves. Furthermore, we observed a viscous wetting regime only on surfaces with an equilibrium contact angle θ(eq) smaller than a critical angle θ(c) depending on viscosity. A scaling analysis based on Navier-Stokes equations is presented at the end, and the predicted θ(c) matches with experimental observations without any additional fitting parameters.

Versatile synthesis of thiol- and amine-bifunctionalized silica nanoparticles based on the ouzo effect

In this article, we report a novel, nanoprecipitation-based method for preparing silica nanoparticles with thiol and amine cofunctionalization. (3-Mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane (MPTMS) and 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (APTMS) were used as the organosilane precursors, which were subjected to acid-catalyzed polycondensation in an organic phase containing a water-miscible solvent (e.g., dimethyl sulfoxide). A pale colloidal solution could be immediately formed when the preincubated organic phase was directly injected into water. The initial composition ratio between MPTMS and APTMS is an important factor governing the formation of nanoparticles. Specifically, large, unstable micrometer-sized particles were formed for preparation using MPTMS as the sole silane source. In contrast, when APTMS was used alone, no particles could be formed. By reducing the fraction of APTMS (or increasing that of MPTMS) in the initial mixture of organosilanes, the formation of nanometer-sized particles occurred at a critical fraction of APTMS (i.e., 25%). Remarkably, a tiny fraction (e.g., 1%) of APTMS was sufficient to produce stable nanoparticles with a hydrodynamic diameter of about 200 nm. Other factors that would also affect particle formation were determined. Moreover, an interesting temperature effect on particle formation was observed. The TEM micrographs show spherical nanospheres with mean sizes of 130-150 nm in diameter. The solid-state (29)Si NMR spectra demonstrate that the hybrid silica materials contain fully and partially condensed silicon structures. The bifunctionalized silica nanoparticles have positive zeta potentials whose magnitudes are positively correlated with the amount of APTMS. The total thiol content, however, is negatively correlated with the amount of APTMS. The cationic nanoparticles can bind an antisense oligonucleotide in a composition-dependent manner.

Homologue specific analysis of a polyether trisiloxane surfactant in German surface waters and study on its hydrolysis

The occurrence of a polyether trisiloxane surfactant in the ng L(-1) range in German surface waters is reported for the first time. The studied surfactant does not ubiquitously occur in the aquatic environment but can reach surface waters on a local scale. As a first step towards the understanding of the environmental fate, the hydrolysis was studied according to the OECD guideline 111. It confirmed that the trisiloxane surfactant is sensitive to hydrolysis and that the hydrolysis rate strongly depends on the pH and the temperature. If one takes only into account the hydrolysis, the trisiloxane surfactant could persist several weeks in river water (the half-life in water is approximately 50 days at pH 7, 25 °C, and an initial concentration of 2 mg L(-1)). A degradation product, more polar than the initial trisiloxane surfactant, was identified by high resolution mass spectrometry.

Adsorption enhancement of elemental mercury onto sulphur-functionalized silica gel adsorbents

In this study, elemental mercury (EM) adsorbents were synthesized using tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) and 3-mercaptopropyl trimethoxysilane as silica precursors. The synthesized silica gel (SG)-TEOS was further functionalized through impregnation with elemental sulphur and carbon disulphide (CS2). The SG adsorbents were then characterized by using scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infra-red spectrophotometer, nitrogen adsorption/desorption, and energy-dispersive X-ray diffractometer. The EM adsorption of the SG adsorbents was determined using fabricated fixed-bed adsorber. The EM adsorption results showed that the sulphur-functionalized SG adsorbents had a greater Hgo breakthrough adsorption capacity, confirming that the presence of sulphur in silica matrices can improve Hgo adsorption performance due to their high affinity towards mercury. The highest Hgo adsorption capacity was observed for SG-TEOS(CS2) (82.62 microg/g), which was approximately 2.9 times higher than SG-TEOS (28.47 microg/g). The rate of Hgo adsorption was observed higher for sulphur-impregnated adsorbents, and decreased with the increase in the bed temperatures.

Lipid extractions from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)-rich and oleaginous Chlorella sp. biomasses by organic-nanoclays

Microalgae biorefinement has attracted in intensive academic and industrial interest worldwide for its potential to replace petrol biofuels as economically and environmentally advantageous alternatives. However, harvesting and lipid extraction remain as critical and difficult issues to be resolved. In the present study, four amino-groups functionalized organic-nano clays were prepared. Specifically, Mg or Al or Ca backboned and covalently linked with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane or 3-[2-(2-aminoethylamino)ethylamino]propyltrimethoxysilane by sol-gel reaction under ambient conditions, resulted in Mg-APTES clay, Al-APTES clay, Ca-APTES clay, and Mg-N3 clay, respectively. Each organic-nanoclay was utilized for lipid extraction from wet microalgae biomass. As a result, the lipid-extraction efficiency of paste docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)-rich Chlorella sp. with low lipid content was high, while one of paste oleaginous Chlorella sp. with high lipid content was relatively low. Despite the low lipid-extraction efficiencies in all of the wet microalgae biomass, the conversion of the extracted lipids' fatty acids to biodiesel was nearly 100%.

Surface-engineered growth of AgIn₅S₈ crystals

The growth of semiconductor crystals and thin films plays an essential role in industry and academic research. Considering the environmental damage caused by energy consumption during their fabrication, a simpler and cheaper method is desired. In fact, preparing semiconductor materials at lower temperatures using solution chemistry has potential in this research field. We found that solution chemistry, the physical and chemical properties of the substrate surface, and the phase diagram of the multicomponent compound semiconductor have a decisive influence on the crystal structure of the material. In this study, we used self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) to modify the silicon/glass substrate surface and effectively control the density of the functional groups and surface energy of the substrates. We first employed various solutions to grow octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS), 3-mercaptopropyl-trimethoxysilane (MPS), and mixed OTS-MPS SAMs. The surface energy can be adjusted between 24.9 and 50.8 erg/cm(2). Using metal sulfide precursors in appropriate concentrations, AgIn5S8 crystals can be grown on the modified substrates without any post-thermal treatment. We can easily adjust the nucleation in order to vary the density of AgIn5S8 crystals. Our current process can achieve AgIn5S8 crystals of a maximum of 1 μm in diameter and a minimum crystal density of approximately 0.038/μm(2). One proof-of-concept experiment demonstrated that the material prepared from this low temperature process showed positive photocatalytic activity. This method for growing crystals can be applied to the green fabrication of optoelectronic materials.

Raman imaging spectroscopic characterization of modified poly(dimethylsiloxane) for micro total analysis systems applications

Methacryloxypropyl-modified poly(dimethylsiloxane) rubbers were obtained from poly(dimethylsiloxane), PDMS, and methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane, MPTMS, by polycondensation reactions. The modified rubbers, prepared with 20 and 30% (v/v) of MPTMS, were used as substrates for microchannel fabrication by the CO(2) laser ablation technique. Raman imaging spectroscopy was used for the surface characterization, showing the homogeneity of the rubbery material, with uniform distribution of the crosslinking centers. Under the experimental conditions used, damage to the rubber from the CO(2) laser radiation used for the channel engraving was not observed. Correlation maps of the surface were obtained in order to spatially evaluate the modification inside and outside the channels. The correlations between the methacryloxypropyl-modified poly(dimethylsiloxane) rubbers and MPTMS (spectral range of 1800-1550 cm(-1)) and PDMS (spectral range of 820-670 cm(-1)) precursors were higher than 0.95 and 0.99, respectively. In addition, Raman imaging spectroscopy allows monitoring the topography of the fabricated microchannel.

Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane poly(carbonate-urea) urethane (POSS-PCU): applications in nanotechnology and regenerative medicine

The field of nanotechnology and regenerative medicine has been progressing at a rapid pace. From theranostic nanoparticles to biomaterials, the possibilities seem endless. Researchers at the University College London have developed and patented a technology to manufacture a new breed of novel nanocomposite material called polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane poly(carbonate-urea) urethane (POSS-PCU). The enhanced biocompatibility, superior mechanical engineering properties, and augmented degradative resistance of POSS-PCU render it capable of functioning as a scaffold for bioartificial organs, nanoparticles for biomedical applications, and a coating for medical devices. Indeed, POSS-PCU has been used in 3 first-in-man studies as a bypass graft, lacrimal duct, and, most notably, the world's first synthetic trachea. Our group has a vested interest in the development of next-generation smart biomaterials that use nano-inspired technologies and mobilize the regenerative capacity of biological systems. Herein we provide a concise and authoritative account of the evolution of biomaterials research within a University College London and POSS-PCU context, with further emphasis on the prospects and challenges involved in driving the future of bioartificial organs in tandem with advanced drug delivery systems in the realm of nanotechnology and regenerative medicine.

Investigation into the effect of varied functional biointerfaces on silicon nanowire MOSFETs

A biocompatible and functional interface can improve the sensitivity of bioelectronics. Here, 3-aminopropyl trimethoxysilane (APTMS) and 3-mercaptopropyl trimethoxysilane (MPTMS) self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) were independently modified on the surface of silicon nanowire metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistors (NW-MOSFETs). Those SAMs-modified silicon NW-MOSFETs were used to discriminate various pH solutions and further verify which modified regime was capable of providing better electrical signals. The APTMS-SAM modified NW-MOSFETs showed better electrical responses in pH sensing. Biomolecules on APTMS-SAM modified NW-MOSFETs also gave better signals for the corresponding proteind in physiological buffer solutions. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) clarified those electrical phenomena and found biomolecules on APTMS-SAM were relatively uniformly modified on NW-MOSFETs. Our results showed that more uniform modification contributed to better signal response to protein interactions in physiological buffer solutions. It suggests that suitable surface modifications could profoundly affect the sensing response and sensitivity.

Grafting 3-mercaptopropyl trimethoxysilane on multi-walled carbon nanotubes surface for improving on-line cadmium(II) preconcentration from water samples

In the present study, the performance of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) grafted with 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane (3-MPTMS), used as a solid phase extractor for Cd(2+) preconcentration in a flow injection system coupled to flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS), was evaluated. The procedure involved the preconcentration of 20.0 mL of Cd(2+) solution at pH 7.5 (0.1 mol L(-1) buffer phosphate) through 70 mg of 3-MPTMS-grafted MWCNTs packed into a minicolumn at 6.0 mL min(-1). The elution step was carried out with 1.0 mol L(-1) HCl. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) were used to estimate the extent of the MWCNT chemical modification. The 3-MPTMS-grafted MWCNTs provided a 1.68 times improvement in the sensitivity of the Cd(2+) FAAS determination compared to the unsilanized oxidized MWCNTs. The following parameters were obtained: preconcentration factor of 31.5, consumptive index of 0.635 mL, sample throughput of 14 h(-1), and concentration efficiency of 9.46 min(-1). The analytical curve was constructed in the range of 1.0-60.0 μg L(-1) (r=0.9988), and the detection and quantification limits were found to be 0.15 μg L(-1) and 0.62 μg L(-1), respectively. Different types of water samples and cigarette sample were successfully analyzed, and the results were compared using electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ETAAS) as reference technique. In addition, the accuracy of proposed method was also checked by analysis of certified reference material NIST SRM 1573a (tomato leaves) and standard reference material NIST SRM 1643e (trace elements in natural waters).

Bacterial inactivation by a singlet oxygen bubbler: identifying factors controlling the toxicity of (1)O2 bubbles

A microphotoreactor device was developed to generate bubbles (1.4 mm diameter, 90 μL) containing singlet oxygen at levels toxic to bacteria and fungus. As singlet oxygen decays rapidly to triplet oxygen, the bubbles leave behind no waste or byproducts other than O(2). From a comparative study in deaerated, air saturated, and oxygenated solutions, it was reasoned that the singlet oxygen bubbles inactivate Escherichia coli and Aspergillus fumigatus, mainly by an oxygen gradient inside and outside of the bubble such that singlet oxygen is solvated and diffuses through the aqueous solution until it reacts with the target organism. Thus, singlet oxygen bubble toxicity was inversely proportional to the amount of dissolved oxygen in solution. In a second mechanism, singlet oxygen interacts directly with E. coli that accumulate at the gas-liquid interface although this mechanism operates at a rate approximately 10 times slower. Due to encapsulation in the gaseous core of the bubble and a 0.98 ms lifetime, the bubbles can traverse relatively long 0.39 mm distances carrying (1)O(2) far into the solution; by comparison the diffusion distance of (1)O(2) fully solvated in H(2)O is much shorter (~150 nm). Bubbles that reached the outer air-water interface contained no (1)O(2). The mechanism by which (1)O(2) deactivated organisms was explored through the addition of detergent molecules and Ca(2+) ions. Results indicate that the preferential accumulation of E. coli at the air-water interface of the bubble leads to enhanced toxicity of bubbles containing (1)O(2). The singlet oxygen device offers intriguing possibilities for creating new types of disinfection strategies based on photodynamic ((1)O(2)) bubble carriers.

Non-chromatographic mercury speciation and determination in wine by new core-shell ion-imprinted sorbents

In this study new Hg(II) core-shell imprinted sorbents (Hg(II)-IIPs) were prepared and tested for speciation and determination of Hg in wine. The silica gel, chemically modified with 3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate (TSPM) was used as supporting material. The Hg(II)-imprinted polymer layer was grafted by copolymerization of methacrylic acid and trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate in the presence of Hg(II) complexes with two different chelating agents: 1-pyrrolidinedithiocarboxylic acid (P(PDC-Hg)/SiG) and 1-(2-thiazolylazo)-2-naphthol (P(TAN-Hg)/SiG). High selectivity and fast kinetics of processes of sorption and desorption for Hg(II) were found by using P(PDC-Hg)/SiG. Recovery experiments performed for selective determination of inorganic mercury in wines showed that the interfering organic matrix did not influence the extraction efficiency. Column solid phase extraction scheme was developed for the determination and speciation of Hg in wines. The limit of detection (LOD) achieved for inorganic mercury determination in wine samples is 0.02 μg L(-1) (3σ), measured by CV AAS. The relative standard deviation varied in the range 6-11% at 0.05-2 μg L(-1) Hg levels. The sorbents showed high mechanical and chemical stability and extraction efficiency has not changed after more than 50 sorption/desorption cycles.

Rapid removal of Hg(II) from aqueous solutions using thiol-functionalized Zn-doped biomagnetite particles

The surfaces of Zn-doped biomagnetite nanostructured particles were functionalized with (3-mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane (MPTMS) and used as a high-capacity and collectable adsorbent for the removal of Hg(II) from water. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the attachment of MPTMS on the particle surface. The crystallite size of the Zn-doped biomagnetite was ∼17 nm, and the thickness of the MPTMS coating was ∼5 nm. Scanning transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering analyses revealed that the particles formed aggregates in aqueous solution with an average hydrodynamic size of 826 ± 32 nm. Elemental analyses indicate that the chemical composition of the biomagnetite is Zn(0.46)Fe(2.54)O(4), and the loading of sulfur is 3.6 mmol/g. The MPTMS-modified biomagnetite has a calculated saturation magnetization of 37.9 emu/g and can be separated from water within a minute using a magnet. Sorption of Hg(II) to the nanostructured particles was much faster than other commercial sorbents, and the Hg(II) sorption isotherm in an industrial wastewater follows the Langmuir model with a maximum capacity of ∼416 mg/g, indicating two -SH groups bonded to one Hg. This new Hg(II) sorbent was stable in a range of solutions, from contaminated water to 0.5 M acid solutions, with low leaching of Fe, Zn, Si, and S (<10%).

One-step interfacial synthesis and assembly of ultrathin luminescent AuNPs/silica membranes

A facile one-step strategy is explored to achieve uniform luminescent Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) in a two-dimensional ultrathin silica matrix based on simultaneous reaction and assembly at the liquid-liquid interface. The as-prepared AuNPs/silica nanocomposites can be further employed to fabricate micrometer-thick films with bifunctional luminescent and superhydrophobic properties. Such a versatile concept is ideal for the development of multifunctional devices.

SEM sample preparation for cells on 3D scaffolds by freeze-drying and HMDS

Common dehydration methods of cells on biomaterials for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) include air drying, hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) or tetramethysilane (TMS) treatment and critical point drying (CPD). On the other side, freeze-drying has been widely employed in dehydrating biological samples and also in preparing porous biomaterial scaffolds but not in preparing cells on three-dimensional (3D) biomaterials for SEM examination. In this study, we compare cells on porous hydroxyapatite (HA) prepared by air drying, HMDS and freeze-drying. The effects of fixation and using phosphate buffered saline (PBS) in the fixation were also assessed on three porous calcium phosphate (CaP) materials, namely, HA, α-tricalcium phosphate (α-TCP) and β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) samples. There is no significant difference in samples prepared by HMDS treatment and freeze-drying viewed at low magnification. Besides, it is better not to use phosphate buffer in the fixation step for CaP materials to avoid undesirable spontaneous precipitation of CaPs. On the other hand, fewer exchanges of liquids are required for freeze-drying and hence chemical fixation may not be absolutely required for samples prepared by freeze-drying. Other technical details of the preparation were also investigated and discussed. This study suggests both HMDS and freeze-drying can be employed to dehydrate cells on 3D scaffolds for SEM examination.

Adsorption characteristics of haloacetonitriles on functionalized silica-based porous materials in aqueous solution

The effect of the surface functional group on the removal and mechanism of dichloroacetonitrile (DCAN) adsorption over silica-based porous materials was evaluated in comparison with powdered activated carbon (PAC). Hexagonal mesoporous silicate (HMS) was synthesized and functionalized by three different types of organosilanes (3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane, 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane and n-octyldimethysilane). Adsorption kinetics and isotherm models were used to determine the adsorption mechanism. The selective adsorption of five haloacetonitriles (HANs) in the single and mixed solute systems was also studied. The experiments revealed that the surface functional groups of the adsorbents largely affected the DCAN adsorption capacities. 3-Mercaptopropyl-grafted HMS had a high DCAN adsorption capacity compared to PAC. The adsorption mechanism is believed to occur via an ion-dipole electrostatic interaction in which water interference is inevitable at low concentrations of DCAN. In addition, the adsorption of DCAN strongly depended on the pH of the solution as this related to the charge density of the adsorbents. The selective adsorption of the five HANs over PAC was not observed, while the molecular structure of different HANs obviously influenced the adsorption capacity and selectivity over 3-mercaptopropyl-grafted HMS.

Synthesis, characterization and application of a novel mercapto- and amine-bifunctionalized silica for speciation/sorption of inorganic arsenic prior to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometric determination

A bifunctional sorbent, (NH(2)+SH)silica, containing both amine and mercapto functionalities was prepared by modification of silica gel with 3-(triethoxysilyl)propylamine and (3-mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane. In addition to the bifunctional sorbent, silica gel was modified individually with the functional mercapto- and amino-silanes, and the mono-functional sorbents, namely (SH)silica and (NH(2))silica, were also mechanically mixed ((NH(2))silica+(SH)silica) for the sake of comparison of sorption performances. It has been demonstrated that (SH)silica shows quantitative sorption only to As(III) at two pH values, 1.0 and 9.0, while (NH(2))silica displays selectivity only towards As(V) at pH 3.0. On the other hand, the bifunctional (NH(2)+SH)silica possesses the efficient features of the two mono-functionalized sorbents; for example, it retains As(III) at a wider pH range, from 1.0 to at least 9.0 with the exception at pH 2.0, and it also shows quantitative sorption to As(V) at pH 3.0. This property gives the bifunctional (NH(2)+SH)silica a better flexibility in terms of sorption performance as a function of solution pH. The mechanically mixed (NH(2))silica+(SH)silica exhibits a similar but less efficient sorption behavior compared to the bifunctional sorbent. Desorption of both As(III) and As(V) species can be realized using 0.5M NaOH. The validity of the proposed method was checked through the analysis of a standard reference material and a good correlation was obtained between the certified (26.67 μg L(-1)) and determined (27.53±0.37 μg L(-1)) values. Spike recovery tests realized with ultrapure water (93.0±2.3%) and drinking water (86.9±1.2%) also confirmed the applicability of the method.

The use of glass substrates with bi-functional silanes for designing micropatterned cell-secreted cytokine immunoassays

It is often desirable to sequester cells in specific locations on the surface and to integrate sensing elements next to the cells. In the present study, surfaces were fabricated so as to position cytokine sensing domains inside non-fouling poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogel microwells. Our aim was to increase sensitivity of micropatterned cytokine immunoassays through covalent attachment of biorecognition molecules. To achieve this, glass substrates were functionalized with a binary mixture of acrylate- and thiol-terminated methoxysilanes. During subsequent hydrogel photopatterning steps, acrylate moieties served to anchor hydrogel microwells to glass substrates. Importantly, glass attachment sites within the microwells contained thiol groups that could be activated with a hetero-bifunctional cross-linker for covalent immobilization of proteins. After incubation with fluorescently-labeled avidin, microwells fabricated on a mixed acryl/thiol silane layer emitted ∼ 6 times more fluorescence compared to microwells fabricated on an acryl silane alone. This result highlighted the advantages of covalent attachment of avidin inside the microwells. To create cytokine immunoassays, micropatterned surfaces were incubated with biotinylated IFN-γ or TNF-α antibodies (Abs). Micropatterned immunoassays prepared in this manner were sensitive down to 1 ng/ml or 60 pM IFN-γ. To further prove utility of this biointerface design, macrophages were seeded into 30 μm diameter microwells fabricated on either bi-functional (acryl/thiol) or mono-functional silane layers. Both types of microwells were coated with avidin and biotin-anti-TNF-α prior to cell seeding. Short mitogenic activation followed by immunostaining for TNF-α revealed that microwells created on bi-functional silane layer had 3 times higher signal due to macrophage-secreted TNF-α compared to microwells fabricated on mono-functional silane. The rational design of cytokine-sensing surfaces described here, will be leveraged in the future for rapid detection of multiple cytokines secreted by individual immune cells.

Substrate-specific modifications on magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles as an artificial peroxidase for improving sensitivity in glucose detection

Magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MION) were recently found to act as a peroxidase with intrinsic advantages over natural counterparts. Their limited affinity toward catalysis substrates, however, dramatically reduces their utility. In this paper, some effective groups were screened out and conjugated on MION as substrate-specific modifications for improving MION's affinity to substrates and hence utility. Nanoparticles of four different superficial structures were synthesized and characterized by TEM, size, zeta potential and SQUID, and assayed for peroxidase activity. Glucose detection was selected as an application model system to evaluate the bonus thereof. Catalysis was found to follow Michaelis-Menten kinetics. Sulfhydryl groups incorporated on MION (SH-MION) notably improve the affinity toward a substrate (hydrogen peroxide) and so do amino groups (NH₂-MION) toward another substrate, proved by variation in the determined kinetic parameters. A synergistically positive effect was observed and an apparently elevated detection sensitivity and a significantly lowered detection limit of glucose were achieved when integrated with both sulfhydryl and amino groups (SH-NH₂-MION). Our findings suggest that substrate-specific surface modifications are a straightforward and robust strategy to improve MION peroxidase-like activity. The high activity extends magnetic nanoparticles to wide applications other than glucose detection.

Development of nanocomposite based on hydroxyethylmethacrylate and functionalized fumed silica: mechanical, chemico-physical and biological characterization

In this research work organic/inorganic nano composites were synthesized from poly-2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate and properly modified silica nanoparticles by in situ polymerization. In particular, fumed nanosilica was functionalized with methacryloylpropyltrimetoxy silane (MPTMS) in order to obtain a more homogeneous, reliable and mechanically performing nano composite. For comparison, nano composites with non functionalized silica were also prepared. Scanning electron microscopy was performed in order to visualize the effects of functionalization on the mode and state of dispersion. This analysis demonstrated that MPTMS grafted onto silica surface acts as an effective coupling agent and assures a good dispersion and distribution of nanoparticles as well as a strong nano particle/matrix interfacial adhesion. As a result of strong interactions occurring between phases, a pronounced increase of the glass transition temperature and mechanical parameters were recorded. Finally, these novel nano composites were seeded with murine fibroblast and human mesenchymal stem cells, and observed in time-lapse experiments proving an effective biological response.

Fabrication and characterization of bioactive thiol-silicate nanoparticles

Here we describe a new method for the production of thiol-silicate particles and the entrapment of enzymes within the thiol particles as they are formed. When bio-inspired polymers (polyethyleneimine) are combined with a silicic acid source and phosphate buffer under pH neutral conditions, formation of silicate particles occurs. In the method presented here the silica source contains a thiol group and so therefore the silicate particles are pre-functionalized with thiol groups. We have termed the silicate particles produced "thiol particles" and the characterization of these thiol particles is also presented in this chapter. As enzymes can be entrapped during fabrication, it means that the thiol particles can not only attach to metal surfaces but also catalyse certain reactions depending on the enzyme used. This means that there are many future possibilities for the use of thiol particles containing enzymes, as they may be used in a wide range of processes and devices which require catalytic functionalized surfaces, such as biosensors and biocatalytic reactors.

Direct patterning of silanized-biomolecules on semiconductor surfaces

A novel approach to pattern silanized-biomolecules directly onto glass (SiO(x)) substrates via Dip-Pen nanolithography (DPN) and microcontact printing (μCP) is presented. Subsequent hybridization reactions of DPN patterned silanized-DNA with its complementary strands provide "proof-of-concept" that the patterned oligonucleotides maintain their biological activities. The fabrication strategy does not require premodification of substrates and offers a cheap and robust way to immobilize molecules on electronically important semiconductor surfaces.

Atomic hydrogen as high-precision field standard for high-field EPR

We introduce atomic hydrogen trapped in an octaisobutylsilsesquioxane nanocage (H@iBuT₈) as a new molecular high-precision magnetic field standard for high-field EPR spectroscopy of organic radicals and other systems with signals around g=2. Its solid-state EPR spectrum consists of two 0.2 mT wide lines separated by about 51 mT and centered at g≈2. The isotropic g factor is 2.00294(3) and essentially temperature independent. The isotropic ¹H hyperfine coupling constant is 1416.8(2) MHz below 70 K and decreases slightly with increasing temperature to 1413.7(1) MHz at room temperature. The spectrum of the standard does not overlap with those of most organic radicals, and it can be easily prepared and is stable at room temperature.

Biocompatibility of synthetic poly(ester urethane)/polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane matrices with embryonic stem cell proliferation and differentiation

Incorporation of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) into poly(ester urethanes) (PEU) as a building block results in a PEU/POSS hybrid polymer with increased mechanical strength and thermostability. An attractive feature of the new polymer is that it forms a porous matrix when cast in the form of a thin film, making it potentially useful in tissue engineering. In this study, we present detailed microscopic analysis of the PEU/POSS matrix and demonstrate its biocompatibility with cell culture. The PEU/POSS polymer forms a continuous porous matrix with open pores and interconnected grooves. From SEM image analysis, it is calculated that there are about 950 pores/mm(2) of the matrix area with pore diameter size in the range 1-15 µm. The area occupied by the pores represents approximately 7.6% of the matrix area. Using mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs), we demonstrate that the PEU/POSS matrix provides excellent support for cell proliferation and differentiation. Under the cell culture condition optimized to maintain self-renewal, ESCs grown on a PEU/POSS matrix exhibit undifferentiated morphology, express pluripotency markers and have a similar growth rate to cells grown on gelatin. When induced for differentiation, ESCs underwent dramatic morphological change, characterized by the loss of clonogenecity and increased cell size, with well-expanded cytoskeleton networks. Differentiated cells are able to form a continuous monolayer that is closely embedded in the matrix. The excellent compatibility between the PEU/POSS matrix and ESC proliferation/differentiation demonstrates the potential of using PEU/POSS polymers in future ESC-based tissue engineering.

An inorganic-organic proton exchange membrane for fuel cells with a controlled nanoscale pore structure

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells have the potential for applications in energy conversion and energy storage, but their development has been impeded by problems with the membrane electrode assembly. Here, we demonstrate that a silicon-based inorganic-organic membrane offers a number of advantages over Nafion--the membrane widely used as a proton exchange membrane in hydrogen fuel cells--including higher proton conductivity, a lack of volumetric size change, and membrane electrode assembly construction capabilities. Key to achieving these advantages is fabricating a silicon membrane with pores with diameters of approximately 5-7 nm, adding a self-assembled molecular monolayer on the pore surface, and then capping the pores with a layer of porous silica. The silica layer reduces the diameter of the pores and ensures their hydration, resulting in a proton conductivity that is two to three orders of magnitude higher than that of Nafion at low humidity. A membrane electrode assembly constructed with this proton exchange membrane delivered an order of magnitude higher power density than that achieved previously with a dry hydrogen feed and an air-breathing cathode.

Dual-column capillary microextraction (CME) combined with electrothermal vaporization inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ETV-ICP-MS) for the speciation of arsenic in human hair extracts

In this work, dual-column capillary microextraction (CME) system consisting of N-(2-aminoethyl)-3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (AAPTS)-silica coated capillary (C1) and 3-mercaptopropyl trimethoxysilane (MPTS)-silica coated capillary (C2) was developed for sequential separation/preconcentration of arsenite [As(III)], arsenate [As(V)], monomethylarsonic acid [MMA(V)] and dimethylarsinic acid [DMA(V)] in the extracts of human hair followed by electrothermal vaporization inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ETV-ICP-MS) detection with iridium as permanent modifier. Various experimental parameters affecting the dual-column microextraction of different As species had been investigated in detail. It was found that at pH 9, As(V) and MMA could be quantitatively retained by C1 and only As(III) could be quantitatively retained by C2. With the aid of valve switching, As(V)/MMA(V) retained on C1 and As(III) retained on C2 could be sequentially desorbed by 10 microl of 0.01 mol l(-1) HNO(3) [for As(V)], 0.1 mol l(-1) HNO(3) [for MMA(V)] and 0.2 mol l(-1) HNO(3)-3% thiourea (m/v) [for As(III)], respectively, the eluents were immediately introduced into the Ir-coated graphite tubes for further ETV-ICP-MS detection. With two-step ETV pyrolysis program, Cl(-) in the sample matrix could be in situ removed, and the total As in the human hair extracts or digested solution could be interference-free, determined by ETV-ICP-MS. DMA(V) in the human hair extracts was obtained by subtraction of total As in the human hair extracts from other three As species. Under the optimized conditions, the detection limits (3 sigma) of the method were 3.9 pg ml(-1) for As(III), 2.7 pg ml(-1) for As(V), 2.6 pg ml(-1) for MMA(V) and 124 pg ml(-1) for total As with the relative standard deviations less than 7.0% (C = 0.1 ng ml(-1), n = 7), and the enrichment factor was 286, 262 and 260 for As(III), As(V) and MMA(V), respectively. The developed method was successfully applied for the speciation of arsenic in the extracts of human hair.

Nitric oxide-releasing S-nitrosothiol-modified xerogels

The synthesis, material characterization, and in vitro biocompatibility of S-nitrosothiol (RSNO)-modified xerogels are described. Thiol-functionalized xerogel films were formed by hydrolysis and co-condensation of 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane (MPTMS) and methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMOS) sol-gel precursors at varying concentrations. Subsequent thiol nitrosation via acidified nitrite produced RSNO-modified xerogels capable of generating nitric oxide (NO) for up to 2 weeks under physiological conditions. Xerogels also exhibited NO generation upon irradiation with broad-spectrum light or exposure to copper, with NO fluxes proportional to wattage and concentration, respectively. Xerogels were capable of storing up to approximately 1.31 micromol NO mg(-1), and displayed negligible fragmentation over a 2-week period. Platelet and bacterial adhesion to nitrosated films was reduced compared to non-nitrosated controls, confirming the antithrombotic and antibacterial properties of the NO-releasing materials. Fibroblast cell viability was maintained on the xerogel surfaces illustrating the promise of RSNO-modified xerogels as biomedical device coatings.

Studies of (3-mercaptopropyl)trimethoxylsilane and bis(trimethoxysilyl)ethane sol-gel coating on copper and aluminum

Bis(trimethoxysilyl)ethane (BTMSE) and (3-mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane (MPTMS) have been used as precursors to prepare sol-gels and hybrid sol-gel under acidic condition. From the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy data on MPTMS sol-gel coated aluminum and copper, it has been shown that the silane film is covalently bonded to Al surface through the interfacial condensation. There is no evidence of bonding interaction between the thiol group and the Cu. The recorded reflection adsorption IR (RAIR) spectrum has provided evidence that the coating BTMSE film covalently interacts with Al. Vibrational assignments have been suggested for pure BTMSE, BTMSE sol-gel, BTMSE xerogel, and BTMSE coated Al panel based on the group frequencies and the variation of frequencies with the sample treatment conditions. The progression of condensation reaction has been observed from the IR spectra of the BTMSE sol-gel and the sol-gel coated film after the treatments at different temperatures with different lengths of time. The corrosion protection of the sol-gel coated Al and Cu has been characterized in NaCl solutions by cyclic voltammetric, potentiodynamic polarization and impedance spectroscopy methods. All these electrochemical measurements indicate that the sol-gel coated metals have better corrosion protection than the corresponding uncoated metals.

Development of extraction and analytical methods of nitrite ion from food samples: microchip electrophoresis with a modified electrode

Two simple and fast methods for the extraction of the nitrite ion (NO(2)(-)) from food samples have been developed. The methods were characterized by UV-visible spectroscopic and electrochemical measurements, and their performance for NO(2)(-) extraction was compared with a standard method. The extraction methods yielded relative recoveries between 100 and 120% with good reproducibility of 3.9% (RSD, n = 4) in UV-visible experiments. Microchip electrophoresis with electrochemical detection (MCE-ED) coupled with a copper (3-mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane [Cu(II)-MPS] complex-modified carbon paste electrode (CPE) has been employed to detect NO(2)(-) in extracted samples. The Cu(II)-MPS complex was synthesized and characterized by voltammetry, XPS, and FT-IR analyses. Experimental parameters affecting the separation and detection performances of the MCE-ED method were assessed and optimized. The potential for the electrocatalytic reduction of NO(2)(-) for MCE-ED was found to be -190 mV (vs Ag/AgCl). When extracted food samples were analyzed by the MCE-ED method, a reproducible response for the NO(2)(-) reduction (RSD of 4.3%) at the modified-CPE reflected the negligible electrode fouling. A wide dynamic range of 1.0-160 ppm was observed for analyzing standard NO(2)(-) with a sensitivity of 0.05106 ± 0.00141, and the detection limit, based on S/N = 3, was found to be 0.35 ± 0.05 ppm. No apparent interference from NO(3)(-), other inorganic ions, and biological compounds was observed under the optimal experimental conditions. A standard addition method for real samples showed wide concentration ranges of 1.10-155 and 1.2-150 ppm for analyzing NO(2)(-) in ham and sausage samples, respectively.

A highly selective, biofunctional surface for molecule/cell sorting

We report in this paper an approach to the effective capture of IgM antibodies from antisera and solutions based on the formation of a carpet of molecules exposing thiols off a surface. Surfaces of different nature, such as OH-exposing (glass, SiO(2), metal oxides, etc.) and noble metal ones (Au, Ag, etc.), have been first functionalized in the liquid phase by suitable chemistry [3-(mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane or 1,4-benzenedimethanethiol]. The resulting exposed SH moieties have been further used for binding anti-A, -B, and -D IgM molecules from goat sera via a thiol exchange reaction involving the J chain and other disulfide bonds present in the IgM molecular structure. Antibodies preserve their functional activity at the surface and appear to be able to bind specifically erythrocytes of the proper group in a fast and reliable way. These results can be generalized to the use of any kind of IgM antibody and can be valuable in surface biofunctionalization in the fields of biosensors and immunoassays.

Label-free, all-electrical, in situ human epidermal growth receptor 2 detection

Using 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane (MPS)-coated (PbMg 1/3 Nb 2/3 O3)0.63-(PbTiO3)0.37 (PMN-PT)/tin and lead zirconate titanate/glass piezoelectric microcantilever sensors (PEMSs) with single-chain variable fragment (scFv) immobilized on the MPS surface, we have demonstrated real-time, label-free detection of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (Her2) in a background of 1 mg/ml bovine serum albumin. Coupled with a scFv with a KD of 3.4 x 10(-8)M, the MPS-insulated PMN-PT/tin PEMS 560 microm long and 720 microm wide exhibited a Her2 concentration sensitivity of 5 ng/ml in a background of 1 mg/ml BSA.

Ultrasonic-assisted synthesis of highly dispersed MoO3 nanospheres using 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane

With ultrasonic irradiation as assistance, highly dispersed MoO(3) nanospheres were synthesized using silane coupling agent 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane HS-(CH(2))(3)Si(OCH(3))(3) (MPTS) as figuration agent. The results of X-ray powder diffractometer (XRD) showed that the precursor was hexagonal molybdenum oxide hydrate (MoO(3).0.55H(2)O). It was converted into orthorhombic MoO(3) after annealed at 400 degrees C for 2h. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed that MoO(3).0.55H(2)O and MoO(3) nanoparticles were spherical with particle-size distribution of ca. 30-80 nm and 25-75 nm, respectively. Results indicated that MPTS and ultrasonic irradiation played important role in formation of highly dispersed MoO(3) nanospheres. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was also adopted to confirm the growth mechanism. The possible cause of formation was based on dispersion function of ultrasonic irradiation and figuration of MPTS.

The effect of five silane coupling agents on the bond strength of a luting cement to a silica-coated titanium

OBJECTIVES

The adhesive performance of five silane coupling agents in adhering resin composite cement (3M ESPE) to silica-coated titanium was evaluated. Titanium was tribochemically silica-coated by using the Rocatec system.

METHODS

Two volume percent solutions of 3-acryloyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (Toray Dow Corning Silicone), N-[3-(trimethoxysilyl)propylethylenediamine] (Dow Corning), 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane (Toray Dow Corning Silicone) and bis-[3-(triethoxysilyl)propyl]polysulfide (Dow Corning) were prepared in 95 vol.% acidified ethanol and allowed to activate (hydrolyze). A pre-activated ca. 2 vol.% 3-methacryloyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (ESPE Sil) was used as a control. The silanes were applied onto silica-coated titanium slides. Chemical activation reactions of the silanes were monitored by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (Perkin-Elmer Spectrum One). RelyX ARC (3M ESPE) resin composite cement stubs were applied and photo-polymerized onto silica-coated titanium. The specimens were thermo-cycled (6000 cycles, 5-55 degrees C).

RESULTS

Statistical analysis (ANOVA) showed that the highest shear bond strength (n=8 per group) value after thermocycling, 14.8 MPa (S.D. 3.8 MPa), was obtained with 2.0 vol.% 3-acryloyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane. Silanization and results with 3-methacryloyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (control, ESPE Sil) did not statistically differ from 3-acryloyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane, 14.2 MPa (S.D. 5.8). The lowest shear bond strength was 7.5 (S.D. 1.9) MPa for N-[3-(trimethoxysilyl)propylethylenediamine] and 7.5 (S.D. 2.5) MPa for bis-[3-(triethoxysilyl)propyl]polysulfide. Both the type of silane (p<0.001) and storage conditions affected significantly the shear bond strength values (p<0.001). All silanes became activated according to the infrared spectroscopic analysis.

SIGNIFICANCE

Silanization with 3-acryloyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane or 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane might offer an alternative for bonding a luting cement to silica-coated titanium.

Electrochemical biosensor based on integrated assembly of dehydrogenase enzymes and gold nanoparticles

Development of a highly sensitive nanostructured electrochemical biosensor based on the integrated assembly of dehydrogenase enzymes and gold (Au) nanoparticle is described. The Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been self-assembled on a thiol-terminated, sol-gel-derived, 3-D, silicate network and enlarged by hydroxylamine seeding. The AuNPs on the silicate network efficiently catalyze the oxidation of NADH with a decrease in overpotential of approximately 915 mV in the absence of any redox mediator. The surface oxides of AuNP function as an excellent mediator, and a special inverted "V" shape voltammogram at less positive potential was observed for the oxidation of NADH. The AuNP self-assembled sol-gel network behaves like a nanoelectrode ensemble. The nanostructured electrode shows high sensitivity (0.056 +/- 0.001 nA/nM) toward NADH with an amperometric detection limit of 5 nM. The electrode displays excellent operational and storage stability. A novel methodology for the fabrication of a NADH-dependent dehydrogenase biosensor based on the integration of dehydrogenase enzyme and AuNPs with the silicate network is developed. The enzymatically generated NADH is, in turn, electrocatalytically detected by the AuNPs on the silicate network. The integrated assembly has been successfully used for the amperometric biosensing of lactate and ethanol at a potential of -5 mV. The biosensor is very stable and highly sensitive, and it has a fast response time. The excellent performance validates the integrated assembly as an attractive sensing element for the development of new dehydrogenase biosensors.

3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane as insulating coating and surface for protein immobilization for piezoelectric microcantilever sensors

We have examined coating (PbMg(13)Nb(23)O(3))(0.63)-(PbTiO(3))(0.37) (PMN-PT)/tin and lead zirconate titanate (PZT)/glass piezoelectric microcantilever sensor (PEMS) with 3-mercaptopropyl-trimethoxysilane (MPS) by a simple solution method to electrically insulate the PEMS for in-water applications. In contrast to earlier methytrimethoxysilane insulation coating, the MPS coating also facilitated receptor immobilization on the sensor surface via bonding of its sulhydryl group to a bifunctional linker, sulfosuccinimidyl-4-(N-maleimidomethyl)cyclohexane-1-carboxylate. We showed that a MPS coating of 21 nm in thickness is sufficient to electrically insulate and provide immobilization surface to the PEMS for in-liquid electrical self-excitation and self-sensing. The in-phosphate buffered saline solution resonance spectra were stable with Q values ranging from 41 to 55. The mass detection sensitivities were determined to be 5x10(-11) and 8x10(-12) gHz for the MPS-insulated PZT-glass and PMN-PT/tin PEMSs, respectively.

Color change evaluation of denture soft lining materials in coffee and tea

This study evaluated the color stability of soft denture liners after being exposed to coffee and tea solutions for different time periods. Four soft denture liners and a denture base polymer were tested. Five specimens of each material were immersed in either coffee or tea solution at 50 +/- 1 degrees C for one, three, nine, 24, 48, and 96 hours. Color measurements were made using a reflectance spectrophotometer before and after the specimens were exposed to the solutions. After 96 hours' immersion in coffee and tea solutions, coffee produced more marked color changes than did tea for all the materials tested. Surface roughness (Ra) of the materials after being cured against a stainless steel surface was also measured with a contact-type surface roughness measuring instrument. Due to the different surface structures, which thus accounted for the different Ra values, the materials behaved differently when immersed in different solutions.

Detection of DNA using cationic polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane nanoparticles as the probe by resonance light scattering technique

A novel cationic polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane nanoparticle (cationic POSS) was synthesized and successfully used as a new probe for the detection of DNA by resonance light scattering technique (RLS). It was found that the electrostatic interaction of cationic POSS and DNA could obviously enhance the RLS signal, the enhanced RLS intensity at 360 nm was proportional to the concentration of nucleic acids within the range of 0.35-42.82 microg ml-1 for calf thymus DNA, the determination limit (3sigma) was 0.32 ng ml-1. The results showed this method was very sensitive, convenient, rapid and reproducible.

Porcelain laminate veneer restorations bonded with a three-liquid silane bonding agent and a dual-activated luting composite

This clinical report describes the fabrication and bonding of porcelain laminate veneer restorations in a patient with anterior open spaces. Laminate veneer restorations made of feldspathic porcelain were etched with 5% hydrofluoric acid, rinsed under tap water, ultrasonically cleaned with methanol, and primed with a chemically activated three-liquid silane bonding agent (Clearfil Porcelain Bond). The enamel surfaces were etched with 40% phosphoric acid, rinsed with water, and primed with a two-liquid bonding agent (Clearfil New Bond) that contained a hydrophobic phosphate (10-methacryloyloxydecyl dihydrogen phosphate; MDP). The restorations were bonded with a dual-activated luting composite (Clapearl DC). The veneers have been functioning satisfactorily for an observation period of one year. Combined use of the Clearfil bonding agents and Clapearl DC luting composite is an alternative to conventional materials for seating porcelain laminate veneer restorations, although the system is inapplicable to dentin bonding.

Physicochemically modified silicon as a substrate for protein microarrays

Reverse phase protein microarrays (RPMA) enable high throughput screening of posttranslational modifications of important signaling proteins within diseased cells. One limitation of protein-based molecular profiling is the lack of a PCR-like intrinsic amplification system for proteins. Enhancement of protein microarray sensitivities is an important goal, especially because many molecular targets within patient tissues are of low abundance. The ideal array substrate will have a high protein-binding affinity and low intrinsic signal. To date, nitrocellulose-coated glass has provided an effective substrate for protein binding in the microarray format when using chromogenic detection systems. As fluorescent systems, such as quantum dots, are explored as potential reporter agents, the intrinsic fluorescent properties of nitrocellulose-coated glass slides limit the ability to image microarrays for extended periods of time where increases in net sensitivity can be attained. Silicon, with low intrinsic autofluorescence, is being explored as a potential microarray surface. Native silicon has low binding potential. Through titrated reactive ion etching (RIE), varying surface areas have been created on silicon in order to enhance protein binding. Further, via chemical modification, reactive groups have been added to the surfaces for comparison of relative protein binding. Using this combinatorial method of surface roughening and surface coating, 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) and mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane (MPTMS) treatments were shown to transform native silicon into a protein-binding substrate comparable to nitrocellulose.

Simultaneous analysis of nitrate and nitrite in a microfluidic device with a Cu-complex-modified electrode

A CE microsystem coupled with a microchip and a copper-(3-mercaptopropyl) trimethoxysilane (Cu-MPS) complex-modified carbon paste electrode (CPE) was developed for the simultaneous analysis of nitrite and nitrate. The method is based on the electrocatalytic reduction of both analytes with the modified electrode. The Cu-MPS complex was characterized by voltammetric, XPS, and FT-IR analyses. Experimental parameters affecting the sensitivity of the modified electrode were assessed and optimized. The best separation was achieved in a 60 mm separation channel filled with a 20 mM acetate buffer of pH 5.0 containing 3.0 mM CTAB at separation field strength of -250 V/cm within 90 s. The detection potential for the simultaneous analysis of nitrite and nitrate was found to be -225 mV versus Ag/AgCl. A reproducible response (RSD of 3.2% (nitrite) and 2.8% (nitrate), n = 8) for repetitive sample injections reflected the negligible electrode fouling at the modified CPE. The interference effect was examined for other inorganic ions and biological compounds. A wide hydrodynamic range between 0.25 and 120 microM was observed for analyzing nitrite and nitrate with the sensitivities of 0.069 +/- 0.003 and 0.065 +/- 0.002 nA/microM, and the detection limits, based on S/N = 3, were found to be 0.09 +/- 0.007 and 0.08 +/- 0.009 microM, respectively. The applicability of the method to water and urine samples analyses was demonstrated.

Characterization of acrylic resins used for restoration of artworks by pyrolysis-silylation-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry with hexamethyldisilazane

A procedure based on the technique of the pyrolysis-GC/MS has been applied, in this work, in order to determine the composition of synthetic acrylic resins employed in artworks. The method is based on the on line derivatization of these resins using hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS). Results obtained have been compared with those others from direct pyrolysis and in situ thermally assisted hydrolysis and methylation with tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH). Sensitivity using HMDS as derivatising reagent is found similar to that from direct pyrolysis and methylation with TMAH. Better resolution of the most representative peaks has been also obtained. Additionally, this method reduces the formation of free acrylic acid molecules during the pyrolysis process and, in consequence, more simplified and well-resolved chromatograms are obtained. Finally, the reported procedure has been successfully used for characterizing several acrylic-based varnishes and binding media currently used in Fine Arts and real pictorial samples from graffiti performed on a Middle Ages bridge.

Microchip-Based Macroporous Silica Sol−Gel Monolith for Efficient Isolation of DNA from Clinical Samples

Effective microchip extraction of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) from crude biological matrixes has been demonstrated using silica beads or hybrid phases composed of beads and sol-gel. However, the use of monolithic sol-gels alone for extraction of human genomic DNA has been more difficult to define. Here we describe, for the first time, the successful use of monolithic tetramethyl orthosilicate-based sol-gels for effective micro-solid-phase extraction (muSPE) of DNA in a glass microchip format. A functional monolithic silica phase with micrometer-scale pores in the silica matrix resulted from addition of poly(ethylene glycol), a poragen, to the precursor mixture. This allowed a monolithic sol-gel bed to be established in a microchip channel that provided large surface area for DNA extraction with little flow-induced back pressure. DNA extraction efficiencies for simple systems (lambda-phage DNA) were approximately 85%, while efficiencies for the reproducible extraction of human genomic DNA from complex biological matrixes (human blood) were approximately 70%. Blockage of the sol-gel pores by components in the lysed blood was observed in repeat extraction on a single device as a decrease in the extraction efficiency. The developed muSPE protocol was further evaluated to show applicability to clinical samples and bacterial cultures, through extraction of PCR-amplifiable DNA.