A novel method for flexibly implementing sample dialysis on microchips is introduced. Nanoporous polymer membranes (5-20 pm thickness) with up to 1OOO:l aspect ratio are fabricated in-situ on silica microchips via photopatterned phase-separation polymerization. These membranes enable selective diffusion of molecules smaller than a cutoff specified by the membrane pore size. Diffusion measuremen...

In this paper, we study synthesis and characteristics of mesoporous silica nanotubes modified by titanium dioxide, as well as their antimicrobial properties and influence on mitochondrial activity of mouse fibroblast L929. Nanocrystalized titania is confined in mesopores of silica nanotubes and its light activated antibacterial response is revealed. The analysis of the antibacterial effect on E...

The goal of this project was to develop a novel technology that may be used to eventually manufacture a new generation of inorganic membranes and sensors with oriented, uni-directional monosized pores. The premise is that very thin membranes with oriented channels as pores will have a high flux in addition to being highly selective. Applications include: 1) gas separation membranes for oxygen e...

High silica content of de-inked paper mill effluents is limiting their regeneration and reuse after membrane treatments such as reverse osmosis (RO). Silica removal during softening processes is a common treatment; however, the effluent from the paper mill studied has a low hardness content, which makes the addition of magnesium compounds necessary to increase silica removal. Two soluble magnes...

We investigated flexible liposomes as a potential oral drug delivery system. However, enhanced membrane fluidity and structural deformability may necessitate liposomal surface modification when facing the harsh environment of the gastrointestinal tract. In the present study, silica-coated flexible liposomes loaded with curcumin (CUR-SLs) having poor water solubility as a model drug were prepare...

Colloidal silica (SiO2) is perhaps the most undesirable inorganic deposit formed in process industrial waters, either in bulk or on surfaces, such as membrane heat exchangers or pipelines. Conventional mineral scale inhibitors do not inhibit its formation. Chemical cleaning is difficult and not free from hazards. Research on silica scale formation and prevention is on-going and has led to vario...

We report a case of Goodpasture's syndrome following chronic low level and an acute, high level of exposure to crystalline silica. A 38-year-old male tilesetter was admitted to the emergency room with dyspnea and respiratory failure. He reported that his symptoms had developed over the previous week after inhaling a large amount of dust while dry-sanding and sweeping a silica-based product used...

The use of engineered nano-sized materials led to revolutionary developments in many industrial applications and in the medical field. These materials, however, also may cause cytotoxicity. In addition to size, surface properties and shape were identified as relevant parameters for cell damage. Cell damage may occur as disruption of membrane integrity, induction of apoptosis and by organelle da...

Escherichia coli O157:H7 (O157) is a Gram negative and highly virulent bacteria found in food and water sources, and is a leading cause of chronic diseases worldwide. Diagnosis and prevention from the infection require simple and rapid analysis methods for the detection of pathogens, including O157. Endogenous membrane peroxidase, an enzyme present on the surface of O157, was used for the color...