Recent advancement in the field of two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy

Two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy in polymer study

This review outlines the recent works of two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2DCOS) in polymer study. 2DCOS is a powerful technique applicable to the in-depth analysis of various spectral data of polymers obtained under some type of perturbation. The powerful utility of 2DCOS combined with various analytical techniques in polymer studies and noteworthy developments of 2DCOS used in this field are also highlighted.

Utilization of different waste proteins to create a novel PGPR-containing bio-organic fertilizer

High-quality bio-organic fertilizers (BIOs) cannot be produced without the addition of some proteins, while many waste proteins are haphazardly disposed, causing serious environmental pollution. In this study, several waste proteins were used as additives to assist with the reproduction of the functional microbe (Bacillus amyloliquefaciens SQR9) inoculated into matured composts to produce BIOs. An optimized composition of solid-state fermentation (SSF) raw materials was predicted by response surface methodology and experimental validation. The results showed that 7.61% (w/w, DW, the same below) rapeseed meal, 8.85% expanded feather meal, 6.47% dewatered blue algal sludge and 77.07% chicken compost resulted in maximum biomass of strain SQR-9 and the maximum amount of lipopeptides 7 days after SSF. Spectroscopy experiments showed that the inner material structural changes in the novel SSF differed from the control and the novel BIO had higher dissolved organic matter. This study offers a high value-added utilization of waste proteins for producing economical but high-quality BIO.

Volume phase transition mechanism of poly[oligo(ethylene glycol)methacrylate] based thermo-responsive microgels with poly(ionic liquid) cross-linkers

Thermodynamic volume phase transition mechanisms of poly[oligo(ethylene glycol)methacrylate] (POEGMA) microgels with poly(ionic liquid) (PIL) cross-linking moieties were investigated in detail on the basis of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy.

Thermoresponsive polyelectrolytes derived from ionic liquids

In this review we summarise recent progress on the design, properties, and potential applications of ionic liquid-derived polyelectrolytes showing thermoresponsive phase behaviour after mixing with water or other organic solvents.

Separation of the molecular motion from different components or phases using projection moving-window 2D correlation FTIR spectroscopy for multiphase and multicomponent polymers

This study developed a new analytical method called projection moving-window 2D correlation FTIR spectroscopy to separate the molecular motion of groups generated from different components or phases for multiphase and multicomponent polymers.

On the two-step phase transition behavior of the Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) brush: different zones with different orders

Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) brushes integrating poly[oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate] (POEGMA) as the core were prepared via successive atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). The dynamic thermal phase transition behavior of PNIPAM brushes was studied by means of IR spectroscopy in combination with the perturbation correlation moving window (PCMW) technique and two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2Dcos) analysis. Compared with aqueous dispersions of PNIPAM brushes covalently bound to the surface of gold nanoparticles and hydrophobic hyperbranched polyester core, an increase in the double phase transition temperature was observed due to the existence of the POEGMA core, which was favourable to the hydrophilic condition. With PCMW analysis, the phase transition temperature (ca. 36 °C) as well as the transition temperature range (33-41 °C) during the heating process were determined. 2Dcos was employed to discern the sequence order of group motions during heating. It is concluded that the PNIPAM in the inner zone responds earlier than that located in the outer zone.

Insights into the denaturation of bovine serum albumin with a thermo-responsive ionic liquid

Influence of bovine serum albumin on the phase transition behavior of the synthetic ionic liquid tetrabutylphosphonium styrenesulfonate ([P(4),(4),(4),(4)][SS]) together with the interactions between [P(4),(4),(4),(4)][SS] and bovine serum albumin (BSA) was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), turbidity measurements, FT-IR, in combination with perturbation correlation moving window (PCMW) and two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2DCOS). Our results reveal that the addition of BSA would increase the phase transition temperature but weaken the transition behavior of [P(4),(4),(4),(4)][SS] solution. DSC and turbidity data show us that the transition temperature of a ternary system with 20 wt% BSA added is 3 °C higher than that with 20% (w/v) [P(4),(4),(4),(4)][SS] solution. Interactions between [P(4),(4),(4),(4)][SS] and BSA together with the phase transition behavior of [P(4),(4),(4),(4)][SS] are responsible for the denaturation of BSA upon heating. PCMW determined the obvious distinctions in LCST of different chemical groups manifesting their various response sequences in the phase separation and denaturation upon heating. Finally, 2DCOS was employed to elucidate the sequential order of chemical group motions during heating. It is worth noting that the appearance of the isosbestic point in the C[double bond, length as m-dash]O groups of FTIR spectra indicates the direct transformation of the conformation of α-helix, random coil to β-sheet and β-turn without an intermediate transition state. Additionally, the phase separation process of ionic liquid is able to recover to the original state before heating while the denaturation of BSA is irreversible after a cooling process.

Investigation of DMSO-induced conformational transitions in human serum albumin using two-dimensional raman optical activity spectroscopy

Recent Raman and Raman optical activity (ROA) results have demonstrated that dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) induces the selective conversion of α-helix motifs into the poly(L-proline) II (PPII) helix conformation in an array of proteins, while β-sheets remain mostly unaffected. Human serum albumin (HSA), a highly α-helical protein, underwent the most dramatic changes and, therefore, was selected as a model for further investigations into the mechanism of this conformational change. Herein we report the use of two-dimensional ROA correlation analysis applying synchronous, autocorrelation, and moving windows approaches in order to understand the conformational transitions in HSA as a function of DMSO concentration. Our results indicate that the destabilization of native α-helix starts at DMSO concentrations as little as 20% in water (v/v), with the transition to PPII helix being complete at ~80% DMSO. These results clearly indicate that any protein preparation containing relatively low concentrations of DMSO should consider possible disruptions in α-helical domains.

LCST transition of PNIPAM-b-PVCL in water: cooperative aggregation of two distinct thermally responsive segments

The self-aggregation behavior of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)-b-poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) (PNIPAM-b-PVCL) during the thermal-induced phase transition in water was explored by a combination of calorimetric, turbidity, dynamic light scattering (DLS) and FTIR measurements. Only one transition can be observed via all detecting methods, revealing the cooperative aggregation of the two distinct temperature-sensitive segments. What is more, the combination of strong hydrophobic interactions among the entire polymer chains and hydrogen bonds of C=O…H-N within PNIPAM segments results in the sharp variations at the LCST and gradual variations above the LCST during the phase transition of PNIPAM-b-PVCL aqueous solution upon heating. Additional analysis by perturbation correlation moving window (PCMW) and two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2Dcos) indicates that the hydrophobic C-H groups have an earlier response than the relatively hydrophilic C=O groups during the LCST transition.

Two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2D-COS) variable selection for near-infrared microscopy discrimination of meat and bone meal in compound feed

This article presents a novel method for combining auto-peak and cross-peak information for sensitive variable selection in synchronous two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2D-COS). This variable selection method is then applied to the case of near-infrared (NIR) microscopy discrimination of meat and bone meal (MBM). This is of important practical value because MBM is currently banned in ruminate animal compound feed. For the 2D-COS analysis, a set of NIR spectroscopy data of compound feed samples (adulterated with varying concentrations of MBM) was pretreated using standard normal variate and detrending (SNVD) and then mapped to the 2D-COS synchronous matrix. For the auto-peak analysis, 12 main sensitive variables were identified at 6852, 6388, 6320, 5788, 5600, 5244, 4900, 4768, 4572, 4336, 4256, and 4192 cm(-1). All these variables were assigned their specific spectral structure and chemical component. For the cross-peak analysis, these variables were divided into two groups, each group containing the six sensitive variables. This grouping resulted in a correlation between the spectral variables that was in accordance with the chemical-component content of the MBM and compound feed. These sensitive variables were then used to build a NIR microscopy discrimination model, which yielded a 97% correct classification. Moreover, this method detected the presence of MBM when its concentration was less than 1% in an adulterated compound feed sample. The concentration-dependent 2D-COS-based variable selection method developed in this study has the unique advantages of (1) introducing an interpretive aspect into variable selection, (2) substantially reducing the complexity of the computations, (3) enabling the transferability of the results to discriminant analysis, and (4) enabling the efficient compression of spectral data.

Discussion on the validity of NIR spectral data in non-invasive blood glucose sensing

In this paper, the effects of two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2DCOS) on chance correlations in the spectral data, generated from the correlations between glucose concentration and some undesirable experimental factors, such as instrument drift, sample temperature variations, and interferent compositions in the sample matrix, are investigated. The aim is to evaluate the validity of the spectral data set, instead of assessing the calibration models, and then to provide a complementary procedure for better verifying or rejecting the data set. It includes tracing back to the source of the chance correlation on the chemical basis, selecting appropriate preprocessing methods before building multivariate calibration models, and therefore may avoid invalid models. The utility of the proposed analysis is demonstrated with a series of aqueous solutions using near-infrared spectra over the overtone band of glucose. Results show that, spectral variations from chance correlations induced by those experimental factors can be determined by the 2DCOS method, which develops avenues for prospectively accurate prediction in clinical application of this technology.

Strong-pump strong-probe spectroscopy: effects of higher excited electronic states

The present paper is devoted to the simulation of (integral and dispersed) pump-probe signals in the nonperturbative regime for a series of material systems with multiple electronic states and excited-state absorption. We show that strong-pump strong-probe spectroscopy permits the probing of vibrational wavepackets in high-lying and/or short-lived excited electronic states with a time resolution which is not limited by the pulse durations. The field strength can be regarded as an additional experimentally controllable parameter, which can be tuned to maximize the spectroscopic information for a given material system.

Relative stability of human centrins and its relationship to calcium binding

Centrins are calcium binding proteins that belong to the EF-hand superfamily with diverse biological functions. Herein we present the first systematic study that establishes the relative stability of related centrins via complementary biophysical techniques. Our results define the stepwise molecular behavior of human centrins by two-dimensional infrared (2D IR) correlation spectroscopy, the change in heat capacity and enthalpy of denaturation by differential scanning calorimetry, and the relative stability of the helical regions of centrins by circular dichroism. More importantly, 2D IR correlation spectroscopy provides unique information about the similarities and differences in dynamics between these related proteins. The thermally induced molecular behavior of human centrins can be used to predict biological target interactions that have a relative dependence on calcium affinity. This information is essential for understanding why certain isoforms may be used to rescue a phenotype and therefore also for explaining the different functions these proteins may have in vivo. Furthermore, this comparative approach can be applied to the study of recombinant therapeutic protein candidates for the treatment of disease states.

Coordination to divalent cations by calcium-binding proteins studied by FTIR spectroscopy

We review the Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy of side-chain COO(-) groups of Ca(2+)-binding proteins: parvalbumins, bovine calmodulin, akazara scallop troponin C and related calcium binding proteins and peptide analogues. The COO(-) stretching vibration modes can be used to identify the coordination modes of COO(-) groups of Ca(2+)-binding proteins to metal ions: bidentate, unidentate, and pseudo-bridging. FTIR spectroscopy demonstrates that the coordination structure of Mg(2+) is distinctly different from that of Ca(2+) in the Ca(2+)-binding site in solution. The interpretation of COO(-) stretches is ensured on the basis of the spectra of calcium-binding peptide analogues. The implication of COO(-) stretches is discussed for Ca(2+)-binding proteins. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: FTIR in membrane proteins and peptide studies.

Sequential identification of model parameters by derivative double two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy and calibration-free approach for chemical reaction systems

A sequential identification approach by two-dimensional (2D) correlation analysis for the identification of a chemical reaction model, activation, and thermodynamic parameters is presented in this paper. The identification task is decomposed into a sequence of subproblems. The first step is the construction of a reaction model with the suggested information by model-free 2D correlation analysis using a novel technique called derivative double 2D correlation spectroscopy (DD2DCOS), which enables one to analyze intensities with nonlinear behavior and overlapped bands. The second step is a model-based 2D correlation analysis where the activation and thermodynamic parameters are estimated by an indirect implicit calibration or a calibration-free approach. In this way, a minimization process for the spectral information by sample-sample 2D correlation spectroscopy and kinetic hard modeling (using ordinary differential equations) of the chemical reaction model is carried out. The sequential identification by 2D correlation analysis is illustrated with reference to the isomeric structure of diphenylurethane synthesized from phenylisocyanate and phenol. The reaction was investigated by FT-IR spectroscopy. The activation and thermodynamic parameters of the isomeric structures of diphenylurethane linked through a hydrogen bonding equilibrium were studied by means of an integration of model-free and model-based 2D correlation analysis called a sequential identification approach. The study determined the enthalpy (ΔH = 15.25 kJ/mol) and entropy (TΔS = 13.20 kJ/mol) of C═O···H hydrogen bonding of diphenylurethane through direct calculation from the differences in the kinetic parameters (δΔ(‡)H, -TδΔ(‡)S) at equilibrium in the chemical reaction system.

The structure, molecular dynamics, and energetics of centrin-melittin complex

Centrin is a calcium binding protein (CaBP) belonging to the EF-hand superfamily. As with other proteins within this family, centrin is a calcium sensor with multiple biological target proteins. We chose to study Chlamydomonas reinhardtii centrin (Crcen) and its interaction with melittin (MLT) as a model for CaBP complexes due to its amphipathic properties. Our goal was to determine the molecular interactions that lead to centrin-MLT complex formation, their relative stability, and the conformational changes associated with the interaction, when compared to the single components. For this, we determined the thermodynamic parameters that define Crcen-MLT complex formation. Two-dimensional infrared (2D IR) correlation spectroscopy were used to study the amide I', I'*, and side chain bands for (13)C-Crcen, MLT, and the (13)C-Crcen-MLT complex. This approach resulted in the determination of MLT's increased helicity, while centrin was stabilized within the complex. Herein we provide the first complete molecular description of centrin-MLT complex formation and the dissociation process. Also, discussed is the first structure of a CaBP-MLT complex by X-ray crystallography, which shows that MLT has a different binding orientation than previously characterized centrin-bound peptides. Finally, all of the experimental results presented herein are consistent with centrin maintaining an extended conformation while interacting with MLT. The molecular implications of these results are: (1) the recognition of hydrophobic contacts as requirements for initial binding, (2) minimum electrostatic interactions within the C-terminal end of the peptide, and (3) van der Waals interactions within MLTs N-terminal end are required for complex formation.

A methodology to estimate concentration profiles from two-dimensional covariance spectroscopy applied to kinetic data

Two-dimensional (2D) covariance analyses applied to spectroscopy data obtained while monitoring chemical processes allow exploring the chemical reactions involved. Some slices of the sample-sample covariance map are an approach to the concentration profiles of the reactive species and we present a novel methodology to identify them. The method overcomes problems habitually referenced in the application of this technique and it is based on the selection of spectral zones with similar standard deviation of the variables and row centering the spectra data in each zone. The slices are identified according to the correlation coefficient value. The method is illustrated using simulated spectra data set representatives of two model reactions A --> B and A --> I --> B. It has been applied to analyze the effect of rare earth metal triflate initiators in the cationic curing process of diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A with gamma-valerolactone. The number of significant slices found is equal to the number of reactive species. This is interesting information that can be used as an initial estimation to find profile concentrations using other methods such as multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares (MCR-ALS).

Intermediate states in the melting process of low molecular weight poly(ethylene oxide)

The melting behavior of low molecular weight poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) fractions has been studied via generalized two-dimensional infrared (2D-IR) correlation spectroscopy and a new stochastic-pulse-based temperature modulation differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) technique (TOPEM). 2D-IR correlation analysis of the melting of PEO shows that nu(s)(CH2) and gamma(a)(CH2) vary prior to nu(s)(COC). Moreover, the TOPEM experiments show that reversible melting and crystallization is occurring during the melting of PEO. These suggest that the melting of PEO is possibly a process passing over intermediate states. Based on our results, a model of the melting process of PEO lamellae is presented: the intermediate states containing the distorted helical conformation are formed first at the front of the lamellae during the melting process.

Differentiation and quality estimation of Cordyceps with infrared spectroscopy

Heretofore, a scientific and systemic method for differentiation and quality estimation of a well-known Chinese traditional medicine, 'Cordyceps', has not been established in modern market. In this paper, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and two-dimensional correlation infrared spectroscopy (2D-IR) are employed to propose a method for analysis of Cordyceps. It has presented that IR spectra of real Cordyceps of different origins and counterfeits have their own macroscopic fingerprints, with discriminated shapes, positions and intensities. Their secondary derivative spectra can amplify the differences and confirm the potentially characteristic IR absorption bands 1400-1700cm(-1) to be investigated in 2D-IR. Many characteristic fingerprints are discovered in 2D-IR spectra in the range of 1400-1700cm(-1) and hetero 2D spectra of 670-780cm(-1)x1400-1700cm(-1). The different fingerprints display different chemical constitutes. Through the three steps, different Cordyceps and their counterfeits can be discriminated effectively and their qualities distinctly display. Successful analysis of eight Cordyceps capsule products has proved the practicability of the method, which can also be applied to the quality estimation of other Chinese traditional medicines.